HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 05-01-2009CITY OF PLYMOUTH
rp)
COUNCIL INFO MEMO
May 1, 2009
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS
Planning Commission Agenda 05/06/09.............................................................................................. Page I
Pilgrim Lane Parade of Memories 05/28/09......................................................................................... Page 2
May, June, July 2009 Official City Meeting Calendars....................................................................... Page 4
Tentative List of Agenda Items for Future City Council Meetings ..................................................... Page 7
INFORMATION
News Articles, Releases, Publications, Etc ...
Sucking Up the Public's Green, Article, Star & Trib..........................................................................
Page 8
Conservative Group Rips City Golf Courses, Article, Star & Trib ....................................................Page
12
Sun Newspapers Parent Files for Chapter 11 , Article, Twin Cities Business .....................................
Page 14
Vicksburg Lane at 52"d Ave in Plymouth to be Closed, News Release ...............................................
Page 15
Legal basis of breath test challenged, Article, Star & Trib..................................................................Page
17
MEETING MINUTES
HRA Minutes 03/26/09 ................
............................................ Page 19
Wayzata Communities in Collaboration Council Minutes 04/15/09..................................................Page 23
STAFF REPORTS
Police Dept. Quarterly Statistics, l'` Quarter 2009........................................................................... Page 27
Fire -Rescue Incident of Interest, 511 Lanewood Lane, 04/22/09....................................................... Page 32
Fire -Rescue Incident of Interest, Hwy 55 & Fcmbrook, 04/14/09 ..................................................... Page 33
CORRESPONDENCE
Letter to City of Osseo accepting "Step to it Challenge"................................................................... Page 35
Letter from Northwest Suburbs Cable Communications Commission re: Capital flat grant ............. Page 36
League of MN Cities Friday Fax, 04/24/09........................................................................................ Page 37
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2009
WHERE: CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Plymouth City Hall
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
CONSENT AGENDA
All items listed on the consent agenda" are considered to be routine by the Planning
Commission 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. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. PUBLIC FORUM
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. CONSENT AGENDA*
A. Approve the April 15, 2009 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes.
B. Inspec. Approve 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 36th Avenue North. (2009006)
6. ADJOURNMENT
Page 1
Pilgrim Lane Parade of Memories - Legacy Night
For 43 years, Pilgrim Lane Elementary has been nurturing talent and providing
excellence in education. The Pilgrim Lane community has been known for its high
achieving learners, innovative educators, astounding volunteerism, family involvement,
and sense of community. Before the school closes its doors on June 2nd, a community-
wide celebration will be held to allow all current and former Pilgrim Lane students, staff,
family and friends an opportunity to honor this legacy on Thursday, May 28th.
On Thursday, May 28th several events are being planned to allow everyone an
opportunity to connect and say good-bye. At 3:00 PM, a reunion Legacy Reception will
be held for the current and former Pilgrim Lane teachers and staff in the multi-purpose
room at Pilgrim Lane. This special reception honoring all Pilgrim Lane staff throughout
the years will be held with refreshments in the multi-purpose room.
Beginning at 5:00 PM, the celebration will continue with two events. Alumni students
and their families will be invited to join the former staff at the Legacy Reception in the
multi-purpose room to meet with former teachers, reminisce, and share memories.
Current students, families and staff will be celebrating their annual End -of -the -Year
Family Picnic on the school playground.
Everyone will come together at 6:00 PM to gather for a Parade of Memories, which will
involve decades of alumni, current classrooms of students, Pilgrim Lane and Armstrong
student groups, and community members walking on a neighborhood parade route in
celebration. The Pilgrim Lane Parade of Memories will begin lining up at 6:00 PM in the
parking lot and kick off at 6:15 PM. If you are interested, or know a community group
that may be interested, in registering to participate, create a float, or provide a convertible
car to drive special guests, please contact either Colleen Kennedy, ibncolaaol.com , or
Diane Dickmeyer, ddickmeyerQhotmail.com .
The Parade of Memories route will circle through the neighborhood and return to Pilgrim
Lane at 7:00 PM. At this time, the school will host an Open House inviting current and
former students, families and staff to visit with one another, walk throughout the
building, view a special video presentation on the legacy of Pilgrim Lane, enjoy pictures
and memorabilia in a Legacy Room, and join everyone at an Ice Cream Social.
The evening will conclude at 8:00 PM with a final send-off outside which will include a
Pilgrim Lane tradition, the staff choir, providing a sing -a -long send off. This farewell
choir is seeking voices for an upcoming rehearsal on Wednesday, May 20th in the music
room at Pilgrim Lane. Former music teacher, Norma West -Hammer, will direct a short
rehearsal on the 20th beginning at 7:00 PM. All current and former staff are encouraged
to participate, in addition to alumni and current and former parents who like to sing.
A Pilgrim Lane Legacy website is being developed by Janet and Dave DeJonge, who
have been collecting Pilgrim Lane photos and memorabilia. They are still in need of
items from the earlier years, especially the 1970's, as they get ready to launch the website
and complete the video presentation for Legacy Night. Former students and staff who
Page 2
may have photos or memorabilia they would be willing to lend can contact Janet and
Dave at dedeionge@coincast.net.
The Pilgrim Lane PTO and staff are excited to open the doors of their beloved school for
a spring evening of celebrating the legacy of the Pilgrim Lane community. There are
several ways to learn more about this special event. A Pilgrim Lane Legacy website,
www.vilprimiane.org, is being launched to provide students, parents and staff a place to
view and share photos, memories and stay updated with the celebration details. In
addition to a Legacy website being launched, there is a Facebook event page providing
information about the Legacy Night 'Parade of Memories" at
www.facebook.com/event.plip?cid=70819813069&ref=mf. Information is also available
on the Pilgrim Lane website, www.ple.rdale.org.
Page 3
City of
Plymouth
Adding Quality to Life
May 2009
Modified on 05/01/09
CHANGES ARE NOTED IN RED
Page 4
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 & REC
Medicine Lake Room
QUALITY
ADVISORY COM -
Review
COMMITTEE
MISSION (PRAC)
Zoning Ordinance
(EQC) MEETING
MEETING
Council Chambers
Council Chambers
7.00 PM
REGULAR COUNCIL
MEETING
Council Chambers
17
18
19
20 6:30 PM
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
6:00 AM -3:30 PM
MEETING`
COMMITTEE ON
SPECIAL
MEMORIAL
Medicine Lake Room
TRANSIT (PACT)
RECYCLING DROP
X31
DAY
MEETING
OFF EVENT
Observed
Medicine Lake
Plymouth
7:00 PM
Room A
Maintenance Facility
CITY OFFICES
REGULAR COUNCIL
7:00 PM
•5/26 Discuss Homers
Associations and
CLOSED
MEETING
HRA MEETING
Subdivision of Lots
Council Chambers
Parkers Lake Room
Modified on 05/01/09
CHANGES ARE NOTED IN RED
Page 4
City of
Plymouth
Adding Quality to Life
June 2009
Modified on 05/01109
Page 5
1
2
3
4
5
6
7:00 PM
PLANNING
COMMISSION
MEETING
Council Chambers
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
7:00 PM
7:00 PM
7:00 PM
REGULAR COUNCIL
ENVIRONMENTAL
PARK & REC
MEETING
QUALITY
ADVISORY COM -
Council Chambers
COMMITTEE
MISSION (PRAC)
(EQC) MEETING
MEETING
Council Chambers
Council Chambers
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
7:00 PM
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
5K RUN
Room A
7:00 PM
HRA MEETING
Parkers Lake Room
28
29
30
Modified on 05/01109
Page 5
rp)
City of
Plymouth
Adding Quality to Life
July 2009
Modified on 05/01/09
Page 6
1
2
3
4
5:00 PM
MUSIC IN
PLYMOUTH
Hilde Performance
INDEPENDENCE
INDEPENDENCE
Center
DAY
DAY
OBSERVED
CITY OFFICES
CLOSED
5
6
7
7:00 M
8
9
10
PPNG
11
COMMISSION
7:00 PM
MEETING
PARK & REC
Council Chambers
ADVISORY COM -
MISSION (PRAC)
7:00 PM
MEETING
ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY
Council Chambers
COMMITTEE (EQC)
MEETING
MedicineLakeltoam
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
7:00 PM
REGULAR
COUNCIL MEETING
Council Chambers
19
20
21
22 plA NPN
23
7:00 PM
24
25
COMMISSION
HRA MEETING
MEETING
Medicine Lake Room
Council Chambers
7:00 PM
PLYMOUTH
ADVISORY
COMMITTEE ON
TRANSIT (PACT)
MEETING
Medicine Lake
26
27
28
29
30
31
7:00 PM
REGULAR
COUNCIL MEETING
Council Chambers
Modified on 05/01/09
Page 6
Tentative Schedule for
City Council Agenda Items
May 12, Special, 5:30 p.m., Medicine Lake Conference Room
• Discuss annual update of the City Code and Zoning Ordinance. City of Plymouth.
(2008076) (Tabled fi-om Apri128)
• Approve 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`h Avenue North. Inspec. (2009006)
• Approve revised development contract for Taryn Hills 8`h Addition for property located
in the southeast quadrant of County Road 47 and Vicksburg Lane. U.S. Home
Corporation. (2008058)
May 12, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
• Adopt Ordinance Amending Section 400 of the City Code relative to Building
Construction Regulations
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 Johnson
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 7
Sucking up the public's green -- A steep decline in the number of golfers is
putting municipal courses and their government owners deep in the hole when
they can least afford it.
Date: 04/26/09
STAR TRIBUNE (Mpls.-St. Paul) Newspaper of the Twin Cities
Section: NEWS
Page: 0 1 B
Edition: METRO
Byline: DAVID PETERSON; STAFF WRITER; VADIM LAVRUSIK
Municipal golf courses, until recently a source of profit, are suddenly driving suburbs deep
into the rough.
The number of rounds played is plummeting. Black ink is turning red. And the courses, which
cities and counties built as amenities for their residents, are turning into burdens.
Some places are being hit much worse than others. West St. Paul has seen a drop of 48 percent
in rounds played since the decade opened. Inver Grove Heights has watched a half -million -dollar
annual surplus sour into a nearly $200,000 loss, in an era when nearby cities are talking about
turning off computers at night or creating cookbooks to help save a counter clerk's job.
"Golf," said Greg Mack, parks director for Ramsey County, "is not booming by any means."
The Star Tribune requested bottom-line numbers from a sample of 13 cities and one county in
the metro area, representing a range of circumstances: poorer and richer, newer and older, bigger
and smaller, premium and value -priced.
The result:
- Almost all have seen a gradual but substantial decline in rounds sold, most in the range of 25
to 35 percent over 10 years.
That's a far steeper dive than the industry has seen nationally or in the Upper Midwest, according
to the National Golf Foundation.
- All of them were turning a surplus a decade ago, but today almost all of the suburbs are
losing money.
Collectively, when each is traced from its own peak to the present day, they are selling about
300,000 fewer rounds and earning nearly $6 million less per year.
The losses are occurring even as cities' lobbyists plead poverty. The League of Minnesota
Cities will soon release a report outlining what it calls "overwhelming concern for (cities')
continued ability to adequately fund basic services."
The scramble to stop the bleeding on the golf course is causing cities to discard long -held
taboos. Edina and Bloomington are
Page 8
letting nonresidents golf as cheaply as folks who live there. Inver Grove Heights is considering
selling off 15 acres adjacent to its courses. Apple Valley has gradually ratcheted up the strength
of the booze sold in the clubhouse, from 3.2 beer to strong beer to hard liquor.
The increasingly worrisome facts about public courses are typically far from the taxpayers'
view, buried deep in documents that can run to well over 100 pages of data.
But if the average citizen isn't following the numbers, city officials say they are.
"We're keepin' an eye on it," said Jim White, the mayor of Orono, whose course has sunk from
a $43,000 surplus in 1998 to a $71,000 loss in 2008. "Nobody likes a deficit. We are asking our
city administrator for thoughts on what to do."
Underscoring the political sensitivity of the situation, Roseville's finance director, Christopher
Miller, stresses that even though a late -'90s annual surplus has vanished, to be replaced by year
after year of modest deficits, golf "does not use any property taxes." Rather, he said, a cushion of
previous golf surpluses is carrying the city through.
Still, Roseville did seek federal stimulus funds to build itself a new golf clubhouse -- a
reminder that for cities, when it comes to golf, even a too -small surplus may not suffice. To truly
be self-sufficient, golf courses need to earn enough profits to keep their facilities current. In
Apple Valley, for instance, the city balked at building a new clubhouse, even though the existing
one is in rough shape.
Nice view, lots of room
John Ferguson got a breathtaking view one sunny day recently from the second-highest point
in Dakota County as he approached the 12th tee at the Inver Wood Golf Course in Inver Grove
Heights, overlooking a 100 -foot drop to the green.
"It's nice and quiet out here with the wildlife," the retired 79 -year-old said. "It's beautiful."
Ferguson didn't have to wait for anyone ahead of him, something that has changed over the
years. The 70,000 rounds a year being played 10 years ago have dropped to 46,000.
On a warm, sunny day last week, few were on the course, and many who were could be found
taking shots at the executive nine -hole course or driving range. Most of those playing were
seniors, at a discounted rate. Two of the golfers, including Ferguson, were seasonal workers for
the course.
Todd Warren, a golfer of some 20 years, said he occasionally drops in at Inver Wood to play a
round or hit some balls at the range because it is close to work. "Prices have been increasing,"
he said. "I think that some courses are really overpriced, especially for the maintenance and
quality." Al McMurchie, Inver Grove golf manager and golf course management consultant,
said a number of factors have led to the decline in rounds. An oversupply of golf courses. A
decline in corporate golf, made worse by today's economy. Weather that hasn't been as favorable.
And an aging population, resulting in more discounted rounds.
But he is optimistic for a rebound. "Golf courses are a good investment in the long term," he
said, "and will generate some positive income going forward. Not to mention the green space,
environmental benefits, recreational asset and more."
What lies ahead?
Page 9
But is golf merely suffering a temporary lull? It doesn't look that way from the steady long-
term decline in rounds.
And there's another ominous sign: Many forms of outdoor recreation are in decline, a problem
that may have to do with fundamental changes in the nature of the state's population.
Hennepin County parks analysts point to state surveys showing that hunting and other activities
are also falling off.
They point in part to demographics. The sort of person who grew up with golf is passing from
the scene and being replaced by folks from other cultural backgrounds.
Golf enthusiasts argue that a certain degree of subsidy for golf shouldn't be a scandal. Other
city functions don't pay for themselves. Burnsville's ice arena, victim of the same sorts of
demographic trends as golf, is losing a lot more money than its golf course. Suburban water
parks face similar challenges.
But fiscal hawks say the more basic point is transparency: the ability of citizens in a democracy
to learn what's happening with their money -- and what tradeoffs are quietly being made.
While most cities do have golf course finances on their websites, most tuck them deep into
dense documents. The facts about Burnsville golf, for instance, can be found online, but on pages
82 and 118 of a 122 -page financial report.
Annette Meeks, a Republican activist and Metropolitan Council member, aims to change that
by putting cities' financials online sometime this spring in a much more usable way.
Her Freedom Foundation of Minnesota is gunning in part for what she calls "municipal golf
courses and other nonessential spending conducted by various cities throughout Minnesota."
dapeterson@startribune.com - 952-882-9023
Vadim Lavrusik is a University of Minnesota student on assignment for the Star Tribune.
MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSES SENDING CITIES INTO THE HOLE
As the number of rounds played sinks, surpluses are turning into deficits across the metro.
Percent change Peak
Golf course, City in rounds sold# year
1.
Brookland, Brooklyn Park
-19%
2004
2.
Edinburgh USA, Brooklyn Park
1216
2008
3.
Dwan, Bloomington
-24%
2000
4.
Hyland Greens, Bloomington
-33%
2000
5.
Birnamwood, Burnsville
-2296
2000
6.
Chaska Town Course, Chaska
-1316
2001
7.
Bunker Hills, Coon Rapids
-1596
2000
8.
Braemar, Edina
-26%
1999
9.
Brookview, Golden Valley
-23%
1999
10.
InverWood, Inver Grove Heights
-35%
1999
11.
Minneapolis, Multiple courses
-31%
2000
12.
Orono Golf Course, Orono
-27%
2003
13.
Goodrich, Maplewood
-34%
1999
14.
Keller, Maplewood
-27%
1999
15.
Manitou Ridge, Maplewood
-32%
1999
16.
Ponds at Battle Creek, Maplewood
1%
2008
17.
Cedarholm, Roseville
-20%
2000
18.
Thompson Oaks, West St. Paul
-48%
2000
Page 10
19. Eagle Valley, Woodbury -22% 2000
# From recent peak; most furnished 10 years' data
Sources: City officials, ESRI, TeleAtlas
Page 11
StarTribune.cam
Conservative group rips city golf
courses
A Freedom Foundation report says
municipal courses are losing millions
of dollars a year, but one course
manager says there's more to the
story.
By DAVID PETERSON, Star Tribune
Last update: May 1, 2009 - 7:13 AM
Municipal golf courses in Minnesota are
"teeing off on taxpayers," losing millions of
dollars a year while competing with private
owners in a declining business, a
conservative research group said Thursday.
But the manager of one of the courses listed
as one of the top 10 "money holes" begged to
differ.
"The numbers they are using are not the full
story," said Larry Norland, golf manager for
the city of Anoka. "The losses they say have
occurred here are mostly, if not entirely,
depreciation, which is a viable business
expense but does not represent a loss of tax
dollars.... As of right now, we're self-
supporting."
Advertisement
Reminder: Send dowers
Secretary's pay _ April 22
Mother's Day - May 10
http://www.startribune.com/templates/fdcp? 1241182 85 8992
The blast came from the Freedom
Foundation of Minnesota, led by Republican
activist and Metropolitan Council Member
Annette Meeks. She is seeking to make the
often byzantine world of municipal finance
more transparent to taxpayers.
The bottom line, the group said:
"[An] analysis of city -owned golf courses
throughout the state concludes that
municipal golf courses lost approximately
$2 million in 2007, the most recent year with
comprehensive available data of municipal
golf enterprise funds. At $50 per round,
that's the equivalent of about 40,000 rounds
of taxpayer -subsidized golf a year."
The Star Tribune tackled the same subject
on Sunday. The newspaper asked a sample
of metro -area cities and one county to
disclose their own recent trends in the
numbers of rounds sold and surpluses or
deficits for golfing operations.
The result for most was a sharp
deterioration in both areas, with declines of
25 to 35 percent in rounds sold common
over the past five to 10 years. Most suburbs
saw surpluses melt into deficits.
The Freedom Foundation, meanwhile, chose
O
Save
Enter FD09
800.216.6539
www.Boesen.com
Print Powered By WiFormatDynamics"
1 oft Page 12
StarTribune.com
to draw its numbers from a uniform
statewide database. That enabled it to
capture far more cities but left it open to
more dispute about what the numbers mean.
While conceding that its approach leaves
out some cities that don't choose to operate
through "enterprise funds," the foundation
published a top 10 list of money losers over
the five-year period ending in 2007.
The list included, in order, Moorhead,
Buffalo, Chaska, Anoka, Becker, Virginia,
Little Falls, New Prague, La Crescent and
Janesville.
Responding to the criticism of Anoka's
Norland, the foundation's investigative
director, Tom Steward, said:
"The city of Anoka's issue is with the
uniform state accounting standards, which
takes depreciation into account. He should
take this up with the state auditor, since
we're simply reporting the data submitted
and published by the city to the state
auditor."
Jim Miller, executive director of the state's
League of Cities, said there's nothing wrong
with subsidizing golf if it's providing
something worthwhile.
Advertisement
Reminder: Send_ Flowers
Secretary's pay _ April 22
Mother's Day - May 10
http://www.startribme.com/tempiates/fdcp?1241182858992
m.startribune.com
`L
"I live in Mendota Heights," he said, "where
there was an interesting proposal a couple
of years ago to close the municipal course,
which was losing money. That went on the
ballot, and a tax increase to support it was
approved." While city councils should
"routinely evaluate whether it's in the public
interest to maintain a course," he added,
"it's simplistic to say that any course that's
losing money should close."
All sides agree that golf has hit a rough
patch.
"Golf has struggled the last couple of years
along with any business that depends on
'extra' dollars," Norland said. "We are
probably overbuilt. We are very fortunate in
Anoka that our course has a great name and
great location and the city is very
supportive and will be as long as we're self-
sustaining; but no doubt there are pockets
[elsewhere in the state] that have not fared
as well."
David Peterson • 952-882-9023
save 15%
Enter F009
800.216.6539
www.Boesen.com
Print Powered By (til FormatDynamics'
2 of Page 13
Twin Cities Business Magazine
close window
w
DAILY DEVELOPMENTS PRINT
Sun Newspapers Parent Files for Chapter 11
Page 1 of 2
The company cites a difficult economic environment and a weak advertising market for its
decision to file a voluntary bankruptcy petition.
April 2009 1 by Christa Meland
American Community Newspapers, LLC, has voluntarily entered into Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, the
company announced Tuesday.
Although the company is based in Addison, Texas, Minneapolis -St. Paul is one of the primary markets in
which it does business. Eden Prairie -based subsidiary Sun Newspapers publishes 42 weekly newspapers that
serve more than 420,000 homes in numerous Twin Cities suburbs.
"A difficult economic environment and weak advertising market have created a number of challenges for our
industry and our company," Gene Carr, American Community Newspapers chairman and CEO, said in a
company -issued statement. "While we have proactively managed our business by right -sizing our cost structure
and driving efficiencies to [maximize] our cash flows, our operations are not able to support our current capital
structure."
The company has between $50 million and $100 million in assets and between $100 million and $500 million
in estimated debts, according to the bankruptcy petition, which was filed in Delaware. The company estimates
that it has between 1,000 and 5,000 creditors.
Several creditors that are owed money are businesses within Minnesota, according to the petition. They include
Catalyst Graphics, Inc., in Eagan; ECM Distribution in Coon Rapids; Independent Delivery Service in St. Paul;
Crow River Press in Hutchinson; and A P Graph, Inc., in Bloomington. Each Minnesota company is owed
between $9,000 and $27,000 in trade debt.
American Community Newspapers' secured creditors will provide a $5 million debtor-in-possession credit
facility. The company will reorganize under section 363 of the bankruptcy code through a process that transfers
assets to bidders free and clear of any liens, claims, or encumbrances. The company's secured creditors are
expected to be the stalking-horse bidder for its assets in a bankruptcy auction.
Newspaper operations will continue as usual during the reorganization process. Home delivery, advertising,
and newsgathering will not be immediately affected by the bankruptcy filing.
Newspapers of all sizes across the country have been tightening budgets and struggling amid declining
advertising revenue in recent months. In January, the Star Tribune filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection
in an effort to restructure its debt and lower its labor costs.
Christa Meland is Twin Cities Business' research director.
More Articles From Christa Meland
Page 14
City of Plymouth
News Release
For Immediate Release
April 24, 2009
Contact:
Jim Rennenberg, 763-509-5541
Vicksburg Lane at 52"d Avenue in Plymouth to be Closed from May 6 through May 8
for Railroad Crossing Maintenance
For three days in May, motorists in Plymouth will encounter a detour on Vicksburg Lane at
52nd Avenue N. The Canadian Pacific Railroad Company will close the railroad crossing at 52nd
Avenue and Vicksburg Lane starting Wed., May 6. The road will remain closed until the evening of
Friday, May 8. (Closing dates are dependent on the weather.)
The closure will allow the railroad company to replace railroad tracks and concrete pavement.
The detour route will be Schmidt Lake Road to Northwest Boulevard (County Road 61) to County
Road 47.
Page 15
�z
H d �
Vicksburg Ln a
J �
CO)
2z CD
w
z - C) `C w
CX
Q �
Cl. - a
M
W
D y
C�
Interstate 49 �.
voeSWI d \;u O O
m . �
Pinev" w Ln .�
Page 16
Legal basis of breath test challenged
Stariribune.com
Legal basis of breath test
challenged
Defense lawyers cheer and
prosecutors fear that a state Supreme
Court ruling could sideline the long -
used test.
By KATIE HUMPHREY, Star Tribune
Last update: May 1, 2009 - 5:27 AM
Blood and urine, in.
Breath tests, out?
A Thursday ruling by the Minnesota Supreme
Court, tied to a dispute about access to the
workings of machines used for breath tests, has
defense attorneys cheering and prosecutors
thinking about other ways to prove blood-alcohol
content in drunken driving cases.
The court, addressing pretrial appeals of two DWI
cases from Dakota County, said the state should
hand over the "source codes" behind the
Intoxilyzer 5000EN if the defendants who request
them show that the codes could reveal
deficiencies in the machine that could affect guilt
orinnocence.
But there's the hitch: The state says it doesn't
have the codes.
Advertisement
This Page Cannot Be Displayed
Page 1 of 2
r
r /: > mstartribune.com
As defense lawyers laud the court's opinion as a
victory for fairness and a road snap to accessing
the records they want, prosecutors fear that
thousands of DWI prosecutions could be in
jeopardy because breath test results could be
thrown out of court if the codes aren't produced.
"It's a catch 22," Dakota County Attorney James
Backstrom said.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has
already sued CMI Inc., the Kentucky -based maker
of the Intoxilyzer 5000EN, in federal court to try
to gain access to the source codes. The case is
continuing after a judge refused to approve a
settlement in February.
The private company, which supplies the state's
260 breath -testing devices, has said the
information is proprietary.
But requests from hundreds of defense attorneys
who sought orders to examine the codes, and the
state's inability to produce them, was a driving
force behind the federal lawsuit.
"All we've ever wanted, all we've ever asked for, is
an opportunity to see how that machine went
about an iving at its conclusion," said Jeffrey
Sheridan, a defense attorney representing Dale
Underdahl in the appeal. "If you're going to use
this mechanical accuser, the accused gets to
know how that accusation was formed."
Based on your corporate access policies, access to this web site
( http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/st.vendor/default;tile=l;sz=660xl6O;ord=7838376567350983.41763? )
has been blocked because the web category "Advertisements & Popups" is not allowed.
If you have questions, please contact IT Helpdesk at ext. 5380 ( helodeskOci.plymouth.mn.us ) and
provide the codes shown below.
Print Powered By Iri I Forma tD namics"
http://www.startribune.com/local/south/44102287.html?elt=KArksUUUU Page 17
Legal basis of breath test challenged
Stariribune.com
Andy Skoogman, spokesman for the Department
of Public Safety, said the agency is disappointed in
the Supreme Court's ruling, in part because it
erroneously says the state has access to the
codes. "We're examining our options, which may
include filing a motion for a rehearing," he said.
But Backstrom said he plans to play it safe and
instruct the county sheriff to use blood and urine
tests for DWI cases, rather than risk having
objective evidence thrown out.
That doesn't surprise Derek Patrin, the defense
lawyer who represented Timothy Brunner in the
Supreme Court appeal.
"You'll see a lot more jurisdictions use blood and
urine tests so they can make the charges stick,"
Patrin said.
Ted Sampsell-Jones, a professor of criminal law
and evidence at William Mitchell College of Law,
said the ruling is good step toward more
disclosure for the defense but isn't a clear-cut
order that CMI release the source codes.
The court ordered that they be released to
Brunner, but it did not order them released in
Underdahl's case, saying he failed to demonstrate
how the source code would help him."
"They don't say the state is going to be required to
turn it over in every case," Sampsell-Jones said.
"District courts have the option to turn it over or
Advertisement
This Page Cannot Be Displayed
not depending on what's shown."
Page 2 of 2
m.startribune.com
Armed with the court's approval of Brunner's
request, Sheridan said he plans to file again with
the District Court on behalf of Underdahl.
Katie Humphrey • 952-882-9056
Based on your corporate access policies, access to this web site
( http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/st.vendor/default;tile=l;sz=660xl6O;ord=7838376567408983.41767? )
has been blocked because the web category "Advertisements & Popups" is not allowed.
If you have questions, please contact IT Helpdesk at ext. 5380 ( helpdesk(&ci.olymouth.mn.us ) and
provide the codes shown below.
Print Powered Byii I FormatD namics"
http://www.startribune.com/local/south/44102287.html?elr=KArksUUUU Page 18
MINUTES
PLYMOUTH HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
March 26, 2009
PRESENT: Chairman Steve Ludovissie, Commissioners Jeff Kulaszewicz, Bob Stein, Paul
Caryotakis, and David Miller
STAFF PRESENT: Executive Director Steve Juetten, Housing Program Manager Jim Barnes
and Office Support Representative Chele Kovacevick
OTHERS PRESENT: Karen Henneman & Grace Management Representative Jody
Boedigheimer
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Ludovissie called the Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority meeting to
order at 7:03P.M.
Housing Program Manager Barnes asked the Board to add an agenda item noted as 3D -Change
of meeting dates for May and June HRA meetings.
2. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approve HRA Meeting Minutes from February 26, 2009.
B. Plymouth Towne Square. Accept monthly housing reports.
C. Vicksburg Crossing. Accept monthly housing reports.
MOTION by Commissioner Ludovissie, seconded by Commissioner Stein to approve the
consent agenda.
Vote. 4 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously.
3. NEW BUSINESS
A. Plymouth HRA Rehabilitation Program. Request from Karen Henneman.
Executive Director Steve Juetten gave an overview of the March 18, 2009 staff report. He also
presented an addendum of information including an application which was provided by Ms.
Henneman after the meeting packets had been prepared. Ms. Henneman said she had calculated
a different total of her remaining loan. According to her, there remains $2,453 before she
reaches the $30,000 ceiling.
Commissioner Stein asked her to state her address for the record. Ms. Henneman stated she lives
at 17925 24's Avenue North, Plymouth, MN 55427. Chairman Kulaszewicz asked her if she is
able to maintain her property. Ms. Henneman said she has never missed a payment and has no
unpaid late fees. Commissioner Ludovissie asked her what kind of expenses she charges to her
Page 19
Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority
March 26, 2009
Page 2
US Bank credit card. He asked if insurance, utilities, and medical expenses are also paid on that
card. Ms. Henneman replied affirmatively. Chairman Kulaszewicz stated that in effect, her
credit card balance increases monthly by roughly $50. Commissioner Stein asked how long she
has owned the property. Ms. Henneman replied 13 years. She added that she is hesitant to
refinance because of the many fees involved. Commissioner Ludovissie asked what the estimate
is to replace the water heater. Ms. Henneman stated she checked on material prices and found
approximately $600-$700 for the water heater, and the liner is another $1,000 and does not
include any labor costs for installation. She added the power vent will require some
modifications which would likely add additional expense.
Executive Director Juetten remarked that even with the balance available to her, Ms. Henneman
doesn't have enough to finance the cost of this project. He stated Ms. Henneman is going in the
negative on a monthly basis even though she makes it up once a year when she applies her
property tax refund to the balance due on the US Bank card. He added Ms. Henneman is
applying for a $5,000 grant to augment Hennepin County's loan. Executive Director Juetten said
he would only consider the repair of the water heater system and the kitchen sink repair is not on
the table at this time. Chairman Kulaszewicz asked how much it would cost to get the water
heater to an acceptable level of operation. Housing Program Manager Barnes said that an
inspection is done on all subject homes before any money is extended. He added that HRA
guidelines are applied first to see if the applicant is considered qualified before a site visit is
scheduled.
Commissioner Stein asked if loan repayment amounts are reflected in her monthly payments.
Housing Program Manager Barnes replied no, the HRA loans do not require repayment unless
the property is sold or the borrower does not reside in the property. The rehab loan will begin
being forgiven at the end of the 10'h year of the loan. He explained that the $1,700 unspent to
date could be applied only to the original scope of work, so that may not be released for the
water heater repair. Instead, that amount could be rolled into a grant, if a grant is extended.
Housing Program Manager Baines said we would prioritize life and health safety issues to
determine where the monies should be applied.
Commissioner Kulaszewicz asked Ms. Henneman if she is currently working with Hennepin
County on another Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) loan. Ms. Henneman
responded affirmatively. Chairman Kulaszewicz asked her how she intended to use those funds.
Executive Director Juetten said she appears to qualify for grant funds if all confirming
documentation is received.
Commissioner Ludovissie stated that he is concerned that there may be some other maintenance -
related issues at the property that the Board may not be aware of. He said we should only be
lending money for a home that meets other minimum housing quality standards (HQS).
Commissioner Stein expressed that he is not interested in making an exception to the $30,000 per
household borrowing limit, but would rather entertain changing the program limits as a whole
instead, if a change is warranted. Executive Director Juetten said that perhaps a home with
$30,000 of outside money reinvested into it, with issues still outstanding, may not be worthy of
additional funds.
Ms. Henneman asked if First Time Home Buyer (FTHB) and Rehabilitation monies are separate
when arriving at the maximum $30,000 limit. Housing Program Manager Barnes replied no, it's
Page 20
Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority
March 26, 2009
Page 3
the aggregate of both amounts extended by the Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority
for all of its programs. Commissioner Stein asked if this fund is exhausted completely at the end
of each year. Housing Program Manager Barnes replied that most years the funds are expended.
Ms. Henneman said that she has been given an amount of $600 still available to her according to
Jim Graham with Hennepin County. Commissioner Stein said that issue will need to be worked
out with HRA staff. Housing Program Manager Barnes said the First Time Home Buyer
Program provides for forgiving the balance after 20 years, at a rate of 10% per year. The
Rehabilitation Loans begin to decline by 10% each year after the lou' year. He added that the
next step is to have Ms. Henneman complete all required documentation related to her
application and then a staff person will visit the property to do an assessment and review the
scope of work. Commissioner Ludovissie added that these programs are intended to supplement
the owner's resources, not wholly subsidize a property.
MOTION by Commissioner Stein, seconded by David Miller to have the HRA staff prepare a
memo on the actual dollar amount still outstanding on Ms. Henneman's loan and to explore
whether the $30,000 maximum loan amount should be adjusted or not based on changes in the
market.
Vote. 4 Ayes. Motion approved unanimously.
B. Vicksburg Crossing. Marketing Report.
Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer presented the marketing activity at Vicksburg
Crossing. She stated the 80-82 unit occupancy rate seems to be the ceiling that the property can
not seem to break through. She said that hopefully the Yard and Garden Expo next week will
generate some interest in the property. Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer stated
that one tenant has recently been asked to leave so the unit will be vacant for one month.
Commissioner Ludovissie asked how the ATV was taken from the site. Housing Program
Manager Barnes said he will address that question in item 3C.
Commissioner Stein asked where we are for occupancy in comparison to last year at this time.
Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer said that last year at this time we had moved
from 67 occupied units to79 with a goal of 90 occupied units by year end. Chairman
Kulaszewicz asked if any additional furnishings are needed to show the property. Grace
Management Representative Boedigheimer responded that a desk and chair would be helpful in
showing the model unit and would be very affordable to purchase.
C. Vicksburg Crossing. Consider bids for improvements.
Housing Program Manager Barnes provided an overview of the March 16, 2009 staff report.
Commissioner Miller asked which material will have the longest life expectancy. Housing
Program Manager Barnes said that both contractors said the steel would be the toughest, but the
aluminum product alternative was provided because it was a better visual fit with the current
railing system. Chairman Kulaszewicz noted that these handrails are not required by code, but
given the age of the residents, it may be a prudent move to have them installed. Chairman
Kulaszewicz recommended that the board go with the lower bid by Loftus with perhaps the
addition of the "X" feature installed at each landing, which tie architecturally into the existing
Page 21
Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority
March 26, 2009
Page 4
railing style. Commissioner Ludovissie said he felt the addition of the "X" feature does not
represent a need, but rather a want.
Motion by Chairman Kulaszewicz, seconded by Commissioner Stein to accept the lower bid
provided by Loftus without the additional "X" feature.
Vote. 4 Ayes. Motion approved unanimously.
According to Housing Program Manager Barnes there has been a second break-in at the property
by an individual wearing a ski mask and stole an ATV owned by the HRA. It was driven out of
the garage and into a nearby dead end street where Housing Program Manager Barnes assumed
there was a trailer or truck waiting to load the vehicle. The Police have no leads, but there is
insurance to cover the loss after the $1,000 deductable is met. A less tempting vehicle will be
purchased to replace it, perhaps a riding mower style with limited speed capacity. Security has
been discussed with Mark Jones of the City of Plymouth Facilities staff. There have been two
options outlined and presented in the attached packet. The insurance adjuster believes the
insurance coverage will cover the cost of repairing the front door which was also damaged in the
break-in. Additional security cameras will be bid to improve on site recording of facility
activity. The Police have also done a security audit and they will provide the results to Housing
Program Manager Barnes when it is complete. Chairman Kulaszewicz asked if option two may
provide a better deterrent rather than option one.
Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer mentioned that the cameras have obviously
not deterred the thieves. Housing Program Manager Barnes wants to provide an atmosphere that
enables residents to feel safe in their building. He also added there is lighting on the building but
all the adjacent businesses shut down and turn some of their lights off after midnight. Grace
Management Representative Boedigheimer said two people have entered the garage on separate
occasions but those incidents were reported promptly to on-site management. She added that
there have been no break-ins at Plymouth Towne Square. Commissioner Ludovissie said that
good hardware is an important deterrent to crime.
Motion by Commissioner Ludovissie, seconded by Commissioner Miller to adopt option one.
Vote. 4 Ayes. Motion approved unanimously.
D. Change meeting dates
Housing Program Manager Barnes requested that the HRA meetings for May and June be moved
to the fourth Wednesday.
Approved unanimously.
4. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION by Commissioner Ludovissie, seconded by Commissioner Stein to adjourn.
Vote. 4 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Page 22
MINUTES
WAYZATA COMMUNITIES IN COLLABORATION COUNCIL
APRIL 15, 2009
Next Meeting:
WEDNESDAY, May 13, 2009
3:00 PM to 4:30 PM
Room A 413, Central Middle School
PRESENT
Brenda Heim, Kristin Tollison, Fran Beard, LaDonna Hoy, Donna Marget,
Linnea Fonnest, Lynn Zemlin, Jessica Cardwell, Angela Haseman, Cheryl Lubinski,
Sheryl Kasdan, Greg Rye, Maggie Frick, Katie Dunford, Alex Olmanson,
Chris Olmanson, Becca Fink, Jessica Cardwell, Katy Hemmah, Charlene Barghini and
Carol Bergenstal
WELCOME
Chair Brenda Heim welcomed community member Sheryl Kasdan and guests
Amy Schmidt, Lori Burros Shoultz, Kathy Banks and Cindy Trudell (elementary social
workers) and Mary Eckberg from the Family Learning Center
MARCH CICC MINUTES
• March CICC minutes were accepted as written.
19 "1 0n
• Cindy Trudell explained that Primary Project is a program in five Wayzata
elementary schools (funded through LCTS and district funds) that provides one-
on-one, child -directed play for identified students who may show early signs of
emotional or behavior issues, but are not eligible for special education.
• Primary Project, developed over 50 years ago in California, has a long record of
proven, measurable outcomes for the students who are involved in the program.
• 24 to 34 students per school have been involved this year at Oakwood, Gleason
Lake, Birchview, Sunset Hill and Plymouth Creek.
• The program has been in place at Birchview and Gleason Lake for several years
and is in its first year at the other schools.
• Primary Project has shown particular success with extremely shy children and
with children who are English Language Learners.
• Occasionally, parents have found it difficult to understand the value of the
program, but once their child is involved they are extremely supportive and
grateful for the intervention.
• Donna Marget explained that funding to continue Primary Project in 2009-10 is
still being reviewed.
Page 23
HUG
• Mary Eckberg, the Lead Educator at Wayzata's Family Learning Center,
explained that HUG (Helping Us Grow) provides universal home visits to
mothers of all children born or adopted in the Wayzata School District.
• Every mother, regardless of their economic status, is offered this service.
• Wayzata Learning Center's home visitor staff person provides new moms with
techniques and strategies to calm babies (she was recently certified in baby
massage), address sibling rivalry, identify postpartum depression, understand the
value of babies' early brain stimulation through reading and singing, obtain
medical insurance if necessary and acquaint families with the many services and
programs of Wayzata's Family Learning Center.
• One of the great values of the program is the opportunity it offers to provide very
early connection to Wayzata's Early Childhood Special Education services for
families of children with special needs.
• HUG had been offered in most west metro school districts, but due to current
budgetary constraints it is now only available in Robbinsdale, Hopkins and
Wayzata.
• The impact of the loss of funding is being reviewed and the possibility of
implementing tiered HUG services, based on eligibility, is being considered.
• Suggestions were made to contact local hospital foundations as potential
additional funding sources.
CICC ELECTIONS FOR 2009-10
• Greg Rye nominated Becca Fink for Chair of the CICC and Fran Beard for Vice
Chair. Motion seconded by Kristen Tollison. Motion unanimously approved.
• Congratulations and thank you to Becca and Fran!
SUMMER CICC MEETINGS
• Given the current uncertain financial future for several CICC projects, Greg Rye
suggested that the CICC meet during the summer to develop a plan for alternative
funding options, if that becomes necessary once the school district budgets are
known.
• Greg also asked that information be provided to the District's Director of Finance,
Jim Westrum, to alert him to the current funding situation and the possible impact
of loss of funding in the future.
• Donna Marget commented that it is important for the District to understand how a
relatively small amount of funding for programs such as on-site mental health
counseling at WHS, the after school programs at Wayzata middle schools, the
Family School Liaison position, Primary Project, Camp CONECT, Caring for
Kids Initiative, etc. have significant impact on many Wayzata students' ability to
be successful in school.
Page 24
COMMUNITY CHECK-IN and UPDATES
Computers for CONECT
• Thanks to an agreement reached by Ken Corens and Donna Peterson in the
District's Technology Office, Superintendent Chace Anderson, Lori Fildes,
Director of Special Services, Katy Hemmah, Family School Liaison, and
CONECT and IOCP staff, the school district will supply 3 laptop computers for
use at the CONECT homework clubs sites where there is currently no computer
access.
IOCP will be responsible for hook-up charges and on-going monthly expenses for
Internet access.
Camp CONECT
• Efforts continue in the search for funding sources for Camp CONECT this
summer.
IOCP's request for funding from Wayzata PTA/Os has resulted in at least one
donation of $500 from the Plymouth Creek PTA.
Community Access to Computers
• Thanks to Sandra Stevenson and Cheryl Lubinski and the CONECT/IOCP staff,
arrangements have been made to provide community access to the Adult Basic
Education Lab at CMS for internet job search and applications.
• The Lab will be available April 27 -June 1st, 2009,9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
WHS After School Program/WMEP Resources
• Fran Beard and Charlene Barghini reported that Shlynn Hayes, Special Education
Intervention Specialist, (and the staff person at VMS in charge of the after school
program) will attend the May CICC meeting to provide an overview of the current
year --- and to share her hopes and dreams for next year.
• Recently the afterschool program was expanded to three days and now runs
Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 2:30 to 4:00 PM.
• Shlynn hopes to expand the program next year to include three elements:
1. Academic tutorials with volunteer tutors (with recreational
elements added in, as an enticement to stay involved).
2. ACT prep classes
3. Support and encouragement to students of color to participate in
honors and AP classes.
• Shlynn is working with Anthony Galloway of WMEP regarding
opportunities for enrichment for students of color.
• Shlynn is also making plans to hold parent meetings at North Minneapolis
community centers, such as Sabathani, to help familiarize parents with
Wayzata programs and resources that are available for their children.
Page 25
IOCP Annual Meeting
LaDonna Hoy invited all CICC members to attend the IOCP Annual Meeting
(which will include a soup dinner this year) at Wayzata Community Church, Mithun
Hall, Thursday, April 30, 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. No RSVP necessary.
Community Prayer Breakfast
Greg Rye invited everyone to attend the Prayer Breakfast to support IOCP on Friday,
April 18, 7:00 AM at Wayzata Community Church.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:37 PM.
NEXT CICC MEETING:
WEDNESDAY, MAY 139 2009
3 to 4:30 PM
Room A 413, Central Middle School
Respectfully submitted,
Carol Bergenstal
Page 26
PLYMOUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MN 55447-1482
DATE: April 24, 2009
TO: Mayor Slavik and City Councilmembers
THROUGH: Calvin Portner, Acting City Manager
FROM: Michael Goldstein, Chief of Police'
SUBJECT: Police Department Quarterly Statistics (Citywide)
Attached you will find a copy of the Police Department's citywide quarterly statistics. As you
might note there is a rather significant increase in reported activity in several categories,
particularly in our non -crime or minor crime related responses found on page 3.
It is important for me to define this "new" activity. In February 2009, after several years of
trying to get this accomplished, our Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) calls for service were
finally fully integrated directly into our Records Management System (RMS). Previously, this
option was not available and as a result, statistics were only counted on calls where a report was
generated. Under the former system there were several minor calls for service, where an officer
responded, but did not complete a report as it was not required. While the activity was logged
into CAD it was never transferred into RMS, which caused an `underreporting" of our activity.
As you might recall, over the last few years when we have published our statistics we have had
to offer several caveats to explain our activity. Now, we have everything coming into one
database that is being properly coded, tracked and reported. With that in mind, that is why our
statistics in some categories have increased. Even with the new numbers, I would suggest that
the actual workload has remained rather consistent over the last couple of years. Therefore, I am
not alarmed by these numbers, but felt that an explanation for them was needed.
If you would like any other information please advise at your convenience.
Page 27
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 28
Part II Crimes
Assaults
15
21
15M
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
12 .
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
4.
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
20
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
.
2.2%
15.4%
23.3%
Page 29
Other Reports (9000's)
MV FATAL CRASH
0
0
0
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
0
911 HANGUP
28
34
39
25
48
63
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 30
Citations
Hazardous moving
0
Speed
405
417
337.
223
335
417
Careless/Reckless
1
2
1.
5
0
3
Disobey Signs & Signals
17
26
34.
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
9.
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
68 .
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
1,0930
969
935
978
Page 31
FIRE -RESCUE
PLYMOUTH FIRE
DEPARTMENT
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447
FIRE -RESCUE INCIDENT OF INTEREST
DATE: April 22, 2009 TIME: 00:59 a.m. ADDRESS: 511 Lanewood Lane
DETAILS: The Department responded to a reported house fire in the early morning of
Wednesday, April 22. First arriving Chief 1 (Kline) reported a single level residential dwelling
with smoke evident from Side "A". Minnetonka Engine 1 established a water supply and were
assigned suppression on the Side "A" exterior, as Plymouth Tower 11 (Kuss, Evenson, Fasching,
Evans, Draper, McCurdy) were assigned to the 1" floor for suppression and opening -up. Aerial 21
(Branyon, Nordby, Baker, Olson) advanced a third handline into the basement for suppression.
Engine 31 (Perbix, Hughes, Kauffinann, Etzel, Foley) assumed the RIT.
The fire was contained to the first floor and basement areas on Side "A". The fire was placed
under control 15 minutes following fire department arrival. No firefighters or civilians were
injured. This call occurred during non Duty Crew hours of operation.
RESPONSE TIME: 11 minutes
FIRE ORIGIN/CAUSE: Exterior wall.
ESTIMATED FIRE LOSS: $25,000
P.F.D. RESPONDING UNITS:
Engine Companies: E-31, E-21
Ladder Companies: TW -11,A-21
Support Units:
Rescue Companies: R-31, R-21
Chief Officers: C-1
Mutual Aid: Minnetonka (auto -aid)
Cooking material (brickettes).
ASSISTING AGENCIES:
EMS: Yes
Red Cross: No
Salvation Army: No
Public Works: No
State FM: No
SECTOR OFFICERS: Chief Kline (Command), Captain Evenson (Division 1),
District Chief Luth ( Basement Division), Minnetonka Chief Fox ( Exterior, Side A
Division), Lt. Anderson (On-Deck/Accountability).
Page 32
pLyMOITTMINNESOTA k
FIRE -RESCUE
DATE: 04/14/2009
PLYMOUTH FIRE
DEPARTMENT
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447
763-509-5120
FIRE -RESCUE INCIDENT OF INTEREST
TIME: 12:40 p.m. ADDRESS: Hwy. 55 & Fembrook Lane
DETAILS: A personal injury vehicle accident was reported to the Department on Tuesday, April
14d'. First arriving Chief 1 (Kline) reported a single vehicle accident with entrapment. A General
Alarm was requested to ensure adequate resources. Ladder 31 (Evenson, Starr, Evans, Sheldon)
were assigned extrication and to remove the passenger side door to gain access to the patient.
Chief 2 (Springer) was assigned as the Rescue Group Supervisor.
The patient was extricated from the vehicle six (6) minutes following fire department arrival. The
patient was transferred to North Memorial Hospital. There were no firefighter injuries.
RESPONSE TIME: Six (6) minutes. This call occurred during the Duty Crew hours of
operation.
FIRE ORIGIN/CAUSE:
ESTIMATED FIRE LOSS:
P.F.D. RESPONDING UNITS:
Engine Companies:
Ladder Companies: L-31
Support Units: G-31
Rescue Companies: R-21
Chief Officers: C-1, C-2
Mutual Aid:
ASSISTING AGENCIES:
EMS: Yes
Red Cross: No
Salvation Army: No
Public Works: No
State FM: No
Henn. Fire Invest.Team: No
DIVISION OFFICERS: Chief Kline (Command), Deputy Chief Springer (Rescue
Group).
Page 33
Page 34
City of
Plymouth
Adding Quality to Life
Mayor John P.W. Hall
City of Osseo
415 Central Avenue
Osseo, MN 55369
Dear Mayor Hall:
Thank you for your April 17, 2009 letter regarding the "Step to It Program". The
Plymouth City Council gladly accepts your challenge.
We appreciate the spirit in which you offer your challenge, and in that spirit, I'll only
point to Plymouth's current ranking as Money Magazine's number one city to show you
how good Plymouth is at being number one.
In the spirit of good sportsmanship, I want to forewarn you that the Plymouth City
Council plans to utilize our 100 plus miles of trails throughout our city to respond to your
challenge. Our city council is considering having back up pedometers in case we wear
out our first ones. The Plymouth City Council looks forward to participating in the
program with the Osseo City Council and wishes you the best of luck!
Best regards,
v'
Kelli Slavik
Plymouth Mayor
cc: City Council
3400 Plymouth Blvd • Plymouth, Minnesota 55447-1482 • Tel: 763-509-5000 • www.ci.plymouth.mn.us
Page 35
NORTHWEST SUBURBS CABLE COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
6900 Winnetka Avenue North
Brooklyn Park, MN 55428
763-536-8355
April 30, 2009
Laurie Ahrens
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
Enclosed you will find a check for the quarterly payment of the 2009 Cable Capital Grant in the
amount of $12,290.78.
The Northwest Suburbs Cable Communications Commission has increased its capital flat grant to
cities by 4%. The grant, to be paid quarterly, is comprised of a flat grant to each city plus a
proportional grant determined by the number of subscribers within each city. The schedule for these
payments will be January 30th, April 30th, July 301h and October 30th. If the 30th lands on a weekend
the payment will be sent prior to the 30th.
Your payment breaks down as follows:
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
2009 Flat Grant $18,231.11
2009 Proportional Grant $30,932.00
Annual Total: 49 163.11
Total divided by 4 = $12,290.78 per quarter
Please note that the actual dollar amounts of these grants may change each year depending on the
number of cable subscribers.
if you have any questions, please call me at 763-533-8196.
Sincerely,
Greg�Moore, Executive Director
Northwest Suburbs Cable Communications Commission
cc: Helen LaFave
Brooklyn Center • Brooklyn Park • Crystal • Golden Valley • Maple Grove • New Hope • Osseo • Plymouth • Robbins- Page 36
Apr 24 2009 16:81:07 Via Fax -> 763 599 5968 Administrator Page 001 Of 007
O
j_,EAGUE oP
MINNESOTA
CITIES
-FridayF ax-
ri weekly legista[lve update from rhe League gfMinnawla Oda
Tax bills on the floor
Today on the floor, the Senate will consider the
Senate version of the omnibus tax bill. The
House will likely consider its version of the bill
during the Saturday floor session. At this point,
we expect a tax conference committee to
convene sometime next week to begin the
process of reaching a compromise between the
House, Senate, and possibly the Governor's
positions.
For cities, the Senate bill will preserve the 2009
distribution of local government aid (LGA) and
market value homestead credit (MVHC) at the
originally certified levels—in other words,
there would be no cut in 2009 beyond the
unallotment reductions to the December 2008
LGA and MVHC reimbursement distributions
that occurred last December. The Senate bill
will reduce LGA and MVHC in 2010 by
approximately $16 million compared to the
current law appropriation level. Under current
law, the LGA appropriation is scheduled to
increase by 2 percent or approximately $10.5
million for the 2010 distribution.
The Senate proposal contains by far the
smallest cuts of the three major budget
balancing proposals. The cuts would be
distributed to each city as 0.7 percent of the
sum of each city's certified levy, LGA, and
taconite aid. This basis is similar to the method
proposed by the governor for his proposed aid.
and credit reductions. The Senate cut would be
first taken from the city's LGA and then to the
extent necessary, from the city's distribution of
MVHC reimbursement.
The House proposal would reduce city aid and
credit reimbursements in 2009 by $50 million
and in 2010 by $78 million. In contrast to the
April 24, 2009
Page I
Senate proposal, the House cuts would he
computed for each city as a percentage of
adjusted net tax capacity (ANTC), which is
essentially the city's tax base adjusted to
account for differences in the accuracy of local
assessment practices. The 2009 cuts would be
1.21 1 1 percent of each city's ANTC while the
2010 cuts would be equal to 1.8889 percent of
ANTC. The House cut would also be first taken
from the city's LGA and then to the extent
necessary, from the city's distribution of
MVHC reimbursement.
Both bills currently contain a repeal of levy
limits for cities, the elimination of the troth -in -
taxation hearing requirement, and a host of
local economic development, property tax and
sales tax provisions. A complete summary of
the provisions currently in the House and
Senate tax bills was included in the April 22
edition of the Cities Bulletin. Additionally, a
printout has been posted on the League's web
site that compares the impact of the three
proposals for the 2009 and 2010 distributions.
League staff will cover and summarize the
outcome of the Senate and House floor debates
in next week's Cities Bulletin.
Questions? Contact Jennifer O'Rourke at
651.281.1161,.'orourke a lmc.or or Gary
Carlson al 651.281.1255, gearlcon( >Wmc.ory.
League helps block prohibition on
administrative fines for traffic offenses
The Minnesota Senate on Tuesday rejected
language contained in the omnibus Judiciary
bill, SF 1627 (Foley, DFL -Coon Rapids), that
would have explicitly prohibited local units of
government from using administrative fines for
traffic offenses. An amendment offered by
Sen. Yvonne Prettrier Solon (DFL -Duluth) to
For mere infom>,�tum mi city Iogislative iw�uv5, ennmct any mmnber or die txague ofMiimcsota Cities intetgovemmental Pwaiions team.
651.281,1200 or 80,925.1122 and www,lmc.org
Page 37
Apr 24 2009 16:H2:02 Via Fax -> 763 509 5060 Administrator Paye 902 Of 007
j_,EAGUE of
MINNESOTA
CITIES
-FridayFax-
A weekly leghla[ive update from the ,Lcogue of Minnesota (7irie c
remove the provision passed by a bipartisan
vote of 47 to 18. Many senators were contacted
by city officials after the League issued an
action alert on the amendment.
The move preserves the status quo on the issue
of whether or not cities and counties have
authority to issue their own traffic tickets. The
overwhelming support for the amendment may
have jump-started progress on a League -
supported bill that would provide explicit
authority for local units of government to issue
administrative citations for traffic offenses. The
bill, HF 1517 Hoseb, DFL -St. Joseph)/SF
1894.lark, DFL -St. Cloud), represents an
agreement between city, county and law
enforcement organizations. It had successful
hearings in both the House and Senate but
failed to meet key deadlines after the State
Court Administrator's Office released a
preliminary fiscal note estimating a negative
fiscal impact on the state if the bill becomes
law. The perception that the bill would have a
negative fiscal impact is particularly
problematic in light of the state's budget
deficit. The League and other proponents have
challenged the fiscal note, which may be
revised in the coming days.
Questions? Contact Anne Minn at 651.281.1263
orafinnii! c.orLr.
Legislature passes omnibus finance
and tax bills
The House and Senate committees on Finance
and Taxes and the House committee on Ways
and Means completed their work in time to
meet the fourth committee deadline of April 22.
The fourth committee deadline was for those
committees to act favorably on omnibus
appropriation and tax bills. Due to the lack of
April 24, 2009
Page 2
fiscal notes, the House and Senate Health and
Human Services committees received
extensions and are scheduled to complete their
work by this weekend.
The House and Senate have held floor sessions
every day this week to process the omnibus
bills and plan to meet on Saturday to complete
their work. After the bills have been passed, the
Hoose and Senate will then appoint conference
committee members who will be charged with
working out the differences between the bills
from each body.
Conference committees have until May 7, the
fifth committee deadline, to complete their
work. This will give the House and Senate 11
days before the constitutional Ly -mandated
adjournment date of May 18 to pass the bills
Off the floor and present the bills to the
governor.
The omnibus finance and tax bills are as
follows:
HF 1122 — Agriculture and Veterans Affairs
budget (Sen. Vickerman/Rep. Juhnke)
HF 855 —Capital Investments (Rep.
Hausman/Sen. Langseth)
SF 2081 — Economic Development and
Housing budget (Sen. Tomassoni/Rep.
Rukavina)
HF 2 — Education budget (Rep. Greiling/Sen.
Stumpf)
HF 2123 — Environment, Energy and Natural
Resources budget (Rep. Wagenius/Sen.
Anderson)
For more mfonnation m city legislative isates, contact any member of the I..cagne orkfinneaim Cities Intergovenmiental Relations kaon.
651.281.1211) or K(X).925.1122 and www.lmc.org
Page 38
Apr 24 2889 16:82:51 Via Fax —> 763 509 5068 Administrator Page 903 9f 007
-Fri -
j,EA7a(?
dayF ax
MINNESOTA A weekly legishalve update from the. League of Minnesota Citict
CITIES April 24, 2009
Page 3
SF 2083 - Higher Education budget (Sen. also known as the homeowner property tax
Pappas/Rep. Rukavina) refund program.
SF 802 - Public Safety budget (Sen.
Higgins/Rep. Paymar)
SF 2082 -State Government Finance budget
(Sen. Betzold/Rep. Kahn)
HF 2323 -- Taxes (Rep. Lenczewski/Sen. Bakk)
HF 1309 - Transportation (Rep. Lieder/Sen.
Murphy)
Questions.? Contact Hue Nlmyen al
hnguvenC&lmc.or9 or 651. 281.1260.
Property Tax Debate
This week, Governor Pawlenty's spokesperson
Brian McClung and Senate Tax Committee
Chair Tom Bakk (DFL -Cook) exchanged barbs
about the property tax impact of their
respective budget proposals. This exchange and
other recent exchanges between Legislators
suggest that the remaining weeks of the session
will be very contentious and that reaching a
final budget and tax agreement by the May 18
session deadline might be elusive.
In a memo sent to the capitol press corps,
McClung indicated that Bakk's Senate Tax bill
would increase property taxes by $886.4
million. Nearly half of that increase, or $415
million, will apparently be due to the Senate
elimination of levy limits on cities and
counties. Roughly $334 million is due to the
proposed Senate increase in the state -imposed
property tax levy while the balance, or roughly
$138 million would be due to a proposed
reduction in the homeowner circuit breaker,
Bakk has stressed that the governor's budget is
not free of tax increases and that the governor's
plan would increase property taxes by
approximately $624 million, largely clue to cuts
in state aid and credit reimbursements to cities
and counties. Bakk also believes the estimate of
a $415 million property tax increase due to the
elimination of levy limits greatly exaggerates
the likely pressrun on the property tax for
counties and cities.
Is Senator Bakk right? All of the property tax
numbers being bandied about are estimates and
originate from a non-partisan working group of
House, Senate and Revenue Department
analysts. This group annually considers the
factors that will likely impact the budgets and
property tax levies of local units of government
in order to project overall levy increases. The
estimation methodology considers recent trends
in city and county levies, recent trends in the
measure of inflation for local governments,
state aid cuts, pent-up pressure due to the fact
that levy limits were in place for 2009, and
some rough survey information from the largest
cities and counties.
Truth be told, no one knows precisely how city
councils and county boards will react to the
challenges of state aid and credit cuts, a weak
economy, a shrinking tax base, and demands by
residents for local services. The circumstances
faced by city councils are unlike anything that
has been experienced in local government since
the early 1980s or perhaps since the Great
Depression. All of this means that assumptions
historically used to project future property tax
levies may not be accurate right now.
Unfortunately, policy decisions, including
Por more information on city legislative issm, cwtuwt any member of aro Ixague ofMinncwom Cilie.. Intergovemntental Relations taun.
651.281,1200 or 800.925.1122 and www,lnrc.org
Page 39
Apr 24 2009 16:03:44 Via Fax -> 763 509 5060 Administrator Paye 004 Of 007
-FridayFax-
A weekly legislailve update from the League <fMinnesota C.'itiev
decisions on state aid cuts and levy limits, will
be based on assumptions.
Questions? Contact Gary ('.ardron at
651.281.1255 or gcarlson a Imc.ory.
Still time to influence outcome on
street improvement district authority
A provision included in HF 2323 (Lenczewski,
DFL -Bloomington), the House omnibus tax bill
scheduled for floor debate on Saturday,
provides authority for cities to implement street
improvement districts. Given opposition to the
street improvement district provision by the
business community, there will likely be an
amendment offered to strip the provision. The
League encourages city officials to contact
their legislators to request a vote against
removing the street improvement district
provision out of HF 2323.
The measure would authorize cities to collect
fees from property owners within a district to
fund municipal street maintenance,
construction, reconstruction and facility
upgrades. Under the proposal, the municipality
would be required to adopt a street
improvement plan that identifies and estimates
the costs of proposed construction,
reconstruction, facility upgrades and
maintenance for the following five years. Fees
would then be apportioned to all parcels located
in the street improvement district on a uniform
basis within each classification of real estate.
The city could collect municipal street
improvement fees in a district for up to 10
years.
The street improvement district authority bill is
enabling legislation. No city would be required
to create a municipal street improvement
April 24, 2009
Page 4
district. It is modeled atter Minn. Stat. 435.44,
which allows cities to establish sidewalk
improvement districts.
The League believes this authority would
provide an additional funding mechanism that
is fair to property owners. It requires a
relationship between who pays fees and where
projects occur, but stops short of the benefit test
that sometimes makes special assessments
vulnerable to legal challenges. It also does not
prohibit cities from collecting fees from tax
exempt properties within a district.
This tool would also allow cities to perform
maintenance and reconstruction on schedule.
Timely maintenance is essential to preserving
streets and thereby protecting taxpayer
investments. Finally, street itnprovement fees
would allow property owners to fund expensive
projects by paying relatively small fees over
time. The tool could be used to mitigate or
eliminate the need for special assessments.
Questions? Contact Anne Finn at 651.281,1263
or aAnn&)tm-c.ort+.
Housing improvement areas
amendment on tax bill
A surprise amendment to the Housing
Improvement Area (HIAs) authorization came
forward during the Senate taut bill mark-up on
Wednesday, and was adopted into the omnibus
bill, SF 2074. The amendment came from Sen.
John Marty (DFL -Roseville), who shared it
with League of Minnesota Cities staff atter the
meeting began, His amendment was adopted as
placeholder language and he committed to
working with city interests on the amendment.
He was amending the part of the bill that would
extend the RIAs through June 30, 2013.
For more inronnation Un eity Icgislauve imw N' eonmct any member A41110 Intergownuilental Relations tent.
651.281,1200 or 800.925.1122 and www.imc.org
Page 40
Apr 24 2009 16:04:36 Via Fax —> 763 509 5068 Administrator
LE72o
MINNESOTA
CITIES
-FridayFax-
A weekly legislative update from the League of Minriesola Cities
Essentially, his amendment would lend the
inclusion of more private data on behalf of the
homeowners and the condo or townhome
association and add ways for a homeowner to
appeal the fees or charges, similar to those in
the special assessment process in Chapter 429.
.During the initial conversation, Sen. Marty
took into account many of the League's
concerns about the workability of the
language—but kept in the reference to the
special assessment law which the League later
testified against. Sen. Marty has acknowledged
problems with referencing the Chapter 429
special assessment appeal process; it is
expected that this language will not survive in
the end. League staff will continue to work
closely with Sen. Marty to iron out the
procedural details as this legislation goes to
conference committee next week. The House
bill has a similar extension and nothing in the
way of process change at this point.
Qua0ions? Ganlact Jennifer O'Rourke at
651?81.1261 or iorourke(dthnc.orK.
Buy American mandate included in
House Omnibus Economic
Development, Housing and Minnesota
Heritage Finance bill
The House included a provision prohibiting
public employers from purchasing apparel and
public safety equipment not manufactured in
the United States in HF 1169, the House
Omnibus Economic Development, Housing and
Minnesota Heritage Finance bill. It) addition to
the Buy American requirement, cities must give
preference to manufacturers who pay an
average annual income, including wages and
benefits, of at least 150 percent of poverty
adjusted for a family of four.
Paye 005 0f 007
April 24, 2009
Page 5
When the provision was added to the omnibus
bill on Wednesday, many members of the
House Ways and Means committee raised the
same concerns the League has raised_
Members of the committee and the League
pointed out that there has been a lot of
emphasis on mandate relief, that this would
create another mandate for cities, and that
complying with the provisions of the bill could
cause considerable overhead for cities. The
language in the bill also does not address what
happens if items that cities may need are not
manufactured in the United States or how cities
are supposed to identify such manufacturers.
Re . Tom Rukavina (DFL -Virginia) the author
of the omnibus bill and the Buy American
provision indicated that he would try to address
the concerns members of the committee and the
League raised, but was clear that he wanted to
keep the provision in the bill.
Questions? Contact Hue Nguyen Ot
651.281.1250 or hn�uven(dtlmc.orx.
Joke amendment targets mayors
Rep. Tom Emmer (R -Delano) successfully
added an amendment to HF 1122 on the floor
of die House on Wednesday that took aim at
weed inspectors, requiring that they wear only
state -approved uniforms and that those
uniforms include a'highly visible' patch on the
front and back of any the shirt or jacket with
the acronym for the weed inspection mitigation
program (W.I.M.P.)_ The League notified the
bill author Rep. Al Julurke (DFL -Willmar) that
within city limits, mayors are the default weed
inspector and that cities do not typically equip
mayors with a uniform. It is expected that the
amendment will be removed by the conference
For nuae inronualion on city legislative imucs, conulct any memba or Uro League of Minnesola Cities lnle�govvmowlllal Relations ialln.
651.281.1200 or 8M.925.1122 and www,lnic.org
page 41
Apr 24 2009 16:05:32 Via Fax -> 763 509 5060 Administrator Paye 006 Of 007
O 0
j_EA of
(MINNESOTA
CITIES
-FridayFax-
A weekly legislative update from lbe. Lerague of Minnesota C.7ities
committee working out differences between the
House and Senate budget bills.
Questions? Contact Craig Johnson at
651.281.1259 and ciohnson(a),lmc.org.
City funding impacts in final
environmental budgets
The House and Senate have each completed
their budget bills for environmental agencies.
The House bill 2 2 /Wagenius, DFL -
Minneapolis) continues to include the
collection of $1.7 million of environmental
review costs on water -related projects and $2.2
million of water and wastewater training and
certification costs collected by the Minnesota
Pollutions Control Agency for the upcoming
biennium. The bill requires that the rest of the
agency's water permitting program, excluding
compliance and enforcement activities, be
funded through fee increases enacted in
January 2011, which will amount to an
additional $3.6 million per biennium. The bill
also includes early adoption of a $6 million per
year water permit fee increase the early
adoption of current draft permit fee increases so
that those fees will go into effect as of July 1
instead of later this year.
The Serrate budget bill (SF 2099 Anderson,
DFL -St. Paul) does not include any of the fee
increases found in the House bill. The Senate
bill does, however, increase the stunner
surcharge for water appropriations to $30 per
million gallons from the current level of $20
per million gallons_ Both bills include language
that allows the Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) to collect review costs from
water appropriation project proposers, which is
currently only collected from those who end up
acquiring permits. That generates about $10 -
April 24, 2009
Page 6
20,000 per year. The Senate bill also includes
increases to the caps for industrial water
appropriation fees that affect the largest 1 I or
12 industrial permitees.
There is a further impact on utilities (including
city utilities) through increases to land and
water crossing fees charged for crossing state
property by adding $1,500 to water crossing
fees and $4,500 to land crossing fees and by
requiring monitoring on larger projects to
assure that state interests are properly
protected. Both of those fee levels are currently
set at $500. This change was included in the
Governor's budget and is included in both the
House and Senate bills. Between the two, they
raise approximately $450,000 per year for the
Land Management Account of the DNR and
about $100,000 per year to cover monitoring
expenses.
Questions? Contact Craig Johnson at
651.281.1259 and ciohnsonf&mc.ort_>.
May i deadline for women in city
government leadership award
nominations
Nominations are due next week, on or before
May 1, for the 2009 Minnesota Women in City
Government (MWCG) Leadership Awards.
The MWCG Leadership Awards recognize two
outstanding women in Minnesota city
govemment. One award will be presented to an
elected woman, and another award will be
awarded to an appointed woman. Both winners
will be recognized for individual achievement
in their cities, as well as leadership and
mentoring roles both inside and outside of their
communities.
For alors luronumion on city legisialive ix uc . gimlet any member or tho l..wgm Of Minnesota Cities Intcrgovemmental Relations t"n.
651.281.1200 or 800.925.1122 and www,inic.org
Page 42
Apr 24 2009 16:86:24 Via Fax -> 763 509 5060 Administrator Page 007 Of 087
00
j_,EAGUE of
MINNESOTA
CITIES
-FridayFax-
A weekly legislative update from the League gfMinnesola Cities
Nomination forms and additional information is
available online at www.mwcg grrg or by
contacting MWCG President Mary McComber
at marvmccomber(ijaol.com.
Qucstions7 Conlact Brian Struh at
6x51.281.1256, 800.925. 11 -1-1, or
hsu•uhGi%line. ore>.
Town hall meetings
Town hall meetings are a great chance to meet
with your legislators and tell your city story.
Upcoming meetings in a city near you include:
April 30 in Eagan (Rasmussen College, 3500
Federal Drive, 7 p.m.) with Sen. Jim Carlson
and Reps. Sandra Masin & Mike obermueller
May 2 in Crystal (Crystal Community Center
4800 Douglas Dr N, 9 a.m.) with Sen. Ann Rest
May 9 in Rochester (Dunn Brothers Coffee,
120 Elton Hills Drive NW, 8:30 a.m.) with
Rep. Kim Norton
April 24, 2009
Page 7
Another great way to stay informed is to read
the non-partisan magazines of the House and
Senate. The House publication, Session
Weekly, can be found online at
www.house.mtt/hinfo/swtnain.asu You can
receive a hard copy delivered by mail at
www.house.mn/iiinfo/subscribesw.asn In the
Senate, Senate Briefly can be found at
www.senate.mn/brieflv/ You can also watch
House floor sessions at
www.house.mtt/hty/schedule.aso You can sign
Lip for email updates on specific bills at
www.house.tnn/lee/billsublos,in.asn You can
sign up for email updates oft specific
committees at
www.hoLise.mn/maitlist/Mailinglist.aqg
END Lea_gue_of Minnesota Cities, 2009
For mare infornratimr on city legislative itmoN, contact any member of ow [.eagle orMinnom)to cilias Inwitoventurental ftdlaliwta term.
651.281.1200 or 800,925.1122 and www.imc.org
Page 43