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Council Information Memorandum 09-26-2008
CITY OF PLYMOUTH rp) COUNCIL INFO MEMO September 26, 2008 UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS Planning Commission Agenda 10/01/08..............................................................................................Page 1 Plymouth Library Groundbreaking 10/13/08.......................................................................................Page 2 September, October, November 2008 Official City Meeting Calendars ............................................. Page 3 Tentative List of Agenda Items for Future City Council Meetings ..................................................... Page 6 INFORMATION News Articles, Releases, Publications, Etc... Plymouth City Council Approved Plymouth Metrolink Dial -A -Ride Fare Increase, Rider Alert....... Page 7 Plymouth Firefighter Recruitment Kicks Off at Open House, News Release ...................................... Page 8 Plymouth Photo Contest, News Release...............................................................................................Page 9 Plymouth Dial -A -Ride Hours & Fares, News Release.......................................................................Page 10 Eureka Aims to Complete Recycling Circle, Article, Star & Trib...................................................... Page 11 Idea for the Scrap Heap Gets Traction, Article, Star & Trib............................................................... Page 14 Small Cities, Big Advantages, Letter to Editor, Money Magazine MEETING MINUTES HRA Minutes 07/24/08...... PACT Minutes 08/27/08 .................................. PRAC Minutes 09/11/08........................................................ .............................Page 17 ............................. Page 18 ........................................ Page 22 STAFF REPORTS Engineering Dept. Active & Pending Public Improvement Projects 09/23/08 ... CORRESPONDENCE Letter from Steve Smith, State Rep, RE: Plymouth #I ................................................. ................... Page 29 .................. Page 34 ....... Page 38 Letter from Assessing, RE: Changes to Green Acres Property Tax Law ............................................ Page 39 PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2008 WHERE: CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS Plymouth City Hall 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 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. OATH OF OFFICE - Planning Commissioner Gordon Petrash 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 4. PUBLIC FORUM 5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 6. CONSENT AGENDA* A. Approve the September 17, 2008 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes. B. JP Et Co. Approve variances for setback and impervious surface area coverage to allow construction of a new house and detached garage for property located at 2740 Larch Lane North. (2008091) 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. City of Plymouth. Site plan amendment and conditional use permits for a multi -use park recreation building for West Medicine Lake Park located at 1920 West Medicine Lake Drive. (2008075) B. LCS Development. Amendment to the Planned Unit Development (PUD) general plan and preliminary plat for "Trillium Woods," a continuing care retirement community to be located on property at the southeast corner of the intersection of County Road 47 and Juneau Lane. (2008085) 8. NEW BUSINESS 4 AM19111I. "•tapir Page 1 © ° M \± :■ ^ // � $ - - Zii m \ \� � � \ § ■ ■� >- §m$ {kk/2 \)\\/ �:01 � . ■.. « _ � =;« ;;-_ - IA4 _ l ! \ Ov" (f{32 _T §/ •,� `k E�aE kp�!!a£z§E\/ }} © ° M \± :■ ^ // � \ \� � � \ § ■ �:01 � ^ l ! \ Ov" rp) City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life September 2008 Modified on 09126108 Page 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7:00 PM 7:00 PM PLANNING HUMAN RIGHTS 10:00 AM— COMMISSION COMMISSION 3:00 PM LABOR DAY MEETING MEETING Absentee Voting Council Chambers Parkers Lake CITY OFFICES Conference Room CLOSED 8 7 9 78:0000 M 10 11 12 13 7 00 PM 8'00 AM EM _ STATE PRIMARY ENVIRONMENTAL PARK it REC AOVI- = 5:00 PM ELECTION QUALITY SORY COMMISSION Absentee Voting 5:00 PM City Council COMMITTEE (PRAC) MEETING Filings Close (EQC) MEETING Council Chambers 8:00 PM 5:00 PM Medicine Lake Room REGULAR COUNCIL Deadline to MEETING Withdraw for Council Chambers Council Filings 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 6:00 PM 7:00 PM Autumn SPECIAL COUNCIL PLANNING Art Fair MEETING COMMISSION Parkers Lake Medicine Lake Room MEETING 2009-2013 Capital Council Chambers Improvements Program ft Hilde Performance Center 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:ooPM REGULAR COUNCIL PLYMOUTH HRA MEETING 9:00 AM -3:30 PM MEETING ADVISORY Medicine Lake Room SPECIAL Council Chambers COMMITTEE ON RECYCLING DROP TRANSIT (PACT) OFF EVENT MEETING Plymouth Medicine Lake Maintenance Facility Room A 28 29 30 ROSH HASHANAH Begins at Sunset Modified on 09126108 Page 3 rp) City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life October 2008 Modified on 09126108 Page 4 1 7:00 PM 2 3 111111� Absentee 4 1:00 PM PLANNING — Voting Plymouth COMMISSION Begins for On Parade MEETING General Election Celebration Council Chambers City Center Area 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 6:30-8:30 PM ENVIRONMENTAL 7:00 PM Volunteer QUALITY PARK a REC 12:00-4:00 PM Recognition Event COMMITTEE ADVISORY COM- Fire Dept. Plymouth Creek (EQC) MEETING MISSION (PRAC) Open House Center Cancelled MEETING Fire Station 111 Council Chambers YOM KIPPUR Begins at Sunset 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 7:00 PM 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL PLANNING COLUMBUS DAY MEETING COMMISSION Observed Council Chambers MEETING Council Chambers PLYMOUTH PUBLIC WORKS DIVISION CLOSED 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 7:00 PM 7:00 PM PLYMOUTH HRA MEETING ADVISORY Medicine Lake Room COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT (PACT) MEETING Medicine Lake Room A 26 27 28 29 30 31 Daylight 7:00 PM 5:30.8:30 PM Savings REGULAR COUNCIL Halloween on Ends MEETING the Creek Set Clocks Back 1 Council Chambers Plymouth Creek Hour Center Modified on 09126108 Page 4 rp) City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life November 2008 Page 5 1�9:00AM- 3:00 PM Absentee Voting 2 38:00AM- 4 5 6 7 8 7:00AM- 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 6:00 PM 8:00 PM PLANNING HUMAN RIGHTS Absentee General COMMISSION COMMISSION Voting Election MEETING MEETING Council Chambers Parkers Lake Conference Room 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL ENVIRONMENTAL PARK Et REC MEETING QUALITY ADVISORY COM - Council Chambers VETERANS DAY COMMITTEE MISSION (PRAC) Observed (EQC) MEETING MEETING Medicine Lake Room Council Chambers CITY OFFICES CLOSED 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 7:00 PM 7:00 PM PLANNING HRA MEETING COMMISSION Medicine Lake Room MEETING Council Chambers 2324 25 7:00 PM 267:00 PM 27 28 29 REGULAR COUNCIL PLYMOUTH MEETING ADVISORY Council Chambers COMMITTEE ON THANKSGIVING THANKSGIVING 130 TRANSIT (PACT) HOLIDAY HOLIDAY MEETING Medicine Lake CITY OFFICES CITY OFFICES Room A CLOSED CLOSED Page 5 Tentative Schedule for City Council Agenda Items October 14, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers • Special Assessment Hearing for Fernbrook Lane Reconstruction Project (1013) • Presentation of Congratulatory Bond to recognize Plymouth being named #1 city (Jonathan North, Ehlers) • Hearing on Delinquent Utility Bills and Other Unpaid Charges • Approve Preliminary and Final Plat to allow "Gutlovics Addition" for three single family lots located at the northwest corner of the intersection of 26`h Avenue and County Road 101 North. Gartner Engineering, LLC. (2007041) (Tabled from September 9) • Approve zoning ordinance text amendment to Section 21130.02— General Landscaping and Maintenance to amend the length of time property owners have to complete the initial landscaping for newly developed properties. City of Plymouth. (2008057) • Approve site plan amendment and conditional use permits for a multi -use park recreation building for West Medicine Lake Park located at 1920 West Medicine Lake Drive. City of Plymouth. (2008075) • Approve variances for setback and impervious surface area coverage to allow construction of a new house and detached garage for property located at 2740 Larch Lane North. JP & Co. (2008091) • Accept Quit Claim Deed to cancel Purchase Agreement for property located at the southeast corner of County Road 101 and 40th Avenue. Family Hope Services. (2003002) • Presentation of Resolution recognizing Plymouth's #1 Best Place to Live Award (Senators Bonoff, Rest, and Olson) • Authorize payment of annual membership to the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce • Approve amendment to the Planned Unit Development (PUD) general plan and preliminary plat for "Trillium Woods," a continuing care retirement community to be located on property at the southeast corner of the intersection of County Road 47 and Juneau Lane. LCSDevelopment. (2008085) October 28, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers • Special Assessment Hearing for 2008 Street Reconstruction Project, City Project 98101 • Special Assessment Hearing for 2008 Mill and Overlay Project, City Project #8109 • Adopt 2009-2013 Capital Improvement Program • Announcement of General Election • Oath of Office to Firefighters Blaine Duncan, Blaine Howe, and Brandon Johnson November 10, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers November 25, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers December 1, Truth in Taxation Hearing, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers December 8, Truth in Taxation Hearing Continuation, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers December 9, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers Note: Special Meeting topics have been set by Council; all other topics are tentative. page 6 riae),'A�ERrl Plymouth City Council Approved Atransitsystem Plymouth Metrolink operated by the Dial -A -Ride Fare Increase City of Plymouth On September 23, 2008, the Plymouth City Council approved a $1 fare increase for the Plymouth Metrolink Dial -A -Ride, but opted to not decrease Dial -A -Ride's Location hours of service. The fare increase will go into effect next year. Plymouth City Hall The current Plymouth Metrolink Dial -A -Ride fare is $2 per ride for a Plymouth resident. Effective January 1, 2009, the Dial -A -Ride fare will 3400 Plymouth Blvd. increase to $3.00 per ride for a Plymouth resident. Plymouth. MN The fare increase will help offset the rising cost of fuel and the decrease in revenue of motor vehicle excise tax (MVET) dollars. MVET funds combined 55447-1482 with passenger fares fund Plymouth's transit program. Web Site The Current Hours of Service Will Remain the Same: www.ci.plymouth.mn.us Monday through Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. click on "Services' Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. then "Transit' For reservations, please call Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Customer Service 763-559-5057. Monday - Friday If you have any questions, please contact the Plymouth Metrolink Transit Coordinator at transit@ci.plymouth.mn.us, 763-509-5535 or on the TDD line at 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 763-509-5065. Voice: 763-509-5535 TDD: 763-509-5065 Fax: 763-509-5510 transit@ci.plymouth.mn.us Printed: September 24, 2008 Page 7 City of Plymouth News Release For Immediate Release September 25, 2008 Contact: Rick Kline, 763-509-5121 Plymouth firefighter recruitment kicks off at open house The Plymouth Fire Department will kick off a six-month recruitment effort aimed at hiring paid -on-call firefighters at the department's annual open house on Sat., Oct. 11, noon — 3 p.m., at Fire Station III, 3300 Dunkirk Ln. In addition to the usual open house activities that draw families each year, the department will staff a recruitment table so people can learn about becoming a firefighter. "For anyone who has wondered if working as a paid -on-call firefighter is right for them, the open house is a perfect time to informally talk with firefighters about what the job entails and to pick up an information packet." said Fire Chief Rick Kline. The department will host two information meetings next spring that will go into more depth about job responsibilities, rewards and training. Those meetings are scheduled for March 31, 7 p.m. and April 4, 9 a.m. at Fire Station III. The Fire Department will accept applications for its 2009 class from Oct. 11 through April 17. Applicants must be at least 18 year old and high school graduates. Firefighters receive an hourly wage for the time that they go to school, train, respond to calls, provide community education and carry out maintenance activities_ The_v also accrue credit annually toward a tax-deferred pension. For more information, call 763-509-5120. Page 8 City of Plymouth News Release For Immediate Release Contact: September 25, 2008 Helen LaFave 763-509-5090 Now is the Time to Capture Fall's Colors for Picture Plymouth Photo Contest Entries; Contest Deadline is Nov. 10 Whether you're a practiced photographer or someone who gets a lucky shot now and then, consider entering the City of Plymouth's Picture Plymouth Photo Contest. Prizes will be awarded in four categories - Plymouth Landmarks/Cityscapes, Plymouth Outdoors, Plymouth Events and Plymouth People. The deadline to enter is Nov. 10. Photos must be taken in Plymouth. Participants may enter up to four photos. Winners will be published in the city newsletter, Plymouth News, and on the city web site. Many of the entries that are not selected as winners may be used in City publications and on the City web site. A grand prize of $150 will be awarded for the top overall photo. First place awards of $50 will be made in each of the categories. "Plymouth was recently named as Money magazine's Number One Best Place to Live in America. The contest is a great way for people to highlight what they think makes our community the best place to live. The idea is to have people who live and work here show Plymouth through their eyes. We've had some truly remarkable entries over the years that have captured the spirit of the community." said Plymouth Communications Manager Helen LaFave. For an entry form and contest details, visit the City web site, www.ci.plymouth.mn.us, or call 763-509-5091. Please leave your name, mailing address, phone number and the number of forms you need. Page 9 City of Plymouth News Release For Immediate Release September 24, 2008 Contact: Sarah Hellekson, 763.509.5052 Plymouth Dial -A -Ride Hours to Remain the Same; Fares to Increase on Jan. 1 Plymouth Metrolink Dial -A -Ride riders will see a fare increase next year, but no reduction in service hours. At its Sept. 23 meeting, the City Council approved a $1 fare increase, but opted not to eliminate Saturday service. The current Plymouth Metrolink Dial -A -Ride fare is S2 per ride for a Plymouth resident. Effective January 1, 2009, the fare will increase to $3 per ride for a Plymouth resident. The fare increase will help offset the rising cost of ftiel and the decrease in projected revenue of motor vehicle excise tax (MVET) dollars, according to Transit Manager Sarah Hellekson. MVET finds combined with passenger fares fund Plymouth's transit program. Plymouth Metrolink Dial -A -Ride services hours will remain the same in 2009. Dial -A -Ride operates Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Plymouth Metrolink Dial -A -Ride, operated by the City of Plymouth, is a shared ride, curb -to - curb bus service. It provides rides to any designation within Plymouth and also travels to Ridgedale, downtown Wayzata, Golden Valley Center and New Hope K -Mart. For reservations, please call Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 763-559-5057. If you have questions about Dial -A -Ride service, contact the Plymouth Metrolink Transit Coordinator at transit Oaci.plymouth.mn.us, 763-509-5535 or on the TDD line at 763-509-5065. 0 Page 10 Eureka aims to complete recyclingcircle http://www.startribune.com!templates/Print_ This_Story?sid=29472214 StarTribuneacom MINNEAPOLIS -ST_ PAUL, MINNESOTA Eureka aims to complete recycling circle By JENNA ROSS, Star Tribune September 22, 2008 In an office lined with potted plants and a bag of compost, Susan Hubbard used a glass bottle to demonstrate the difference between big waste haulers and Eureka Recycling, the local nonprofit she runs. Moving the bottle in a half circle before banging it on the table, she explained that true recycling does not stop there. "it goes like this..." she said, completing a smooth circle. Eureka has been making inroads in the recycling business by promoting that idea -- full-circle recycling of more waste than the competition is willing to handle. It's gaining attention, and winning away contracts, because of its emphasis on "actually recycling," as one expert describes it -- ensuring that nearly all of what folks set out at the curb ends up getting reused. The bottle that Hubbard held? Put it into a Eureka truck, and it'll likely end up part of a new bottle or jar. Put it into a Waste Management truck, and it's as likely to end up used in place of gravel at a local landfill. "That is not recycling," Hubbard contends. Waste Management and the state of Minnesota disagree with that conclusion. But more cities are buying the message. In recent years, Eureka has landed contracts in several suburbs -- Roseville, Arden Hills, Lauderdale, Maplewood and, starting next month, St. Louis Park. Three of those five had previously contracted with Waste Management. When Plymouth took steps to switch from Waste Management to Eureka this past summer, Waste Management went to work to block the move. It sent letters to residents, urging them to call their city officials. It lowered its price. And in the end, it kept the contract. That decision turned on the complex and occasionally murky issues surrounding recycling, such as: Do people recycle more materials if they don't have to sort them? And how much of what's put out at the curb is getting recycled? "It's really difficult to sort out these things," said recycling consultant Tim Goodman, of Tim Goodman & Associates. "And it's partly because there are a lot of very subjective types of questions," he said. Eureka's origins Page I I 1 of 4 9 2 � '008 10:16 AM Eureka aims to complete recycI ing circle http://www.startribune.com/templates/Print_This_ Story9sid=29472214 Created in 2001 as an alternative to the big waste haulers, Eureka Recycling is an offshoot of a community-based organization, St. Paul's Neighborhood Energy Consortium. In its first years, Eureka focused on fulfilling its 10 -year recycling contract with St. Paul, but after opening a new facility in Minneapolis in 2004, it began taking on additional contracts. "We knew there was a much larger need out there," said Tim Brownell, the nonprofit's copresident. Roseville began with Eureka in 2006, after conducting a study in six neighborhoods that explored what methods led to more recycling. Eureka offered a contract that incorporated what worked best, including weekly pickup. Recycling figures have increased since -- as they have in other cities Eureka serves — in part because of the education Eureka does "at the point of interaction," said Tim Pratt, the city's recycling coordinator. If someone puts out plastic that's not recyclable, Eureka's haulers will leave it behind — with a note explaining why. Roseville resident Lillian Chiarella, 86, once ran outside after seeing a Eureka employee leave her pizza box behind. "And he said, 'We can't take those because there's food particles there,"' she said. "I thought that was excellent. I will never put one out again." Education a key ingredient Much of Eureka's mission lies in such education, which state and national agencies have praised. The company spends significant time and money answering phone calls and distributing leaflets. "Let us introduce you to a few unique members of your recycling program's 'family,"' one of its recent postcards stated, telling people they could now recycle milk cartons, juice boxes and clothes. Eureka's contract proposal in Plymouth included $289,800 for education over three years. Waste Management's initial bid, which was $400,000 less than Eureka's, did not include education money. When it became clear that the City Council was concerned about cost, some residents whispered to one another at meetings: Why doesn't Eureka just cut the education? Hubbard said education is needed, pointing to the tonnage that Plymouth recycles, which dropped 18.3 percent from 2004 to 2007, even as population increased. Statewide, recycling figures have leveled off since the mid-90s. "Every single city we have worked with has increased recycling rates," Hubbard said. "It's not because we have little halos coming out of our heads.... It's because we spend money educating people. Page 12 2 of 4 9/23/2008 10:16 AM Eureka aims to complete recycling circle http:/'%vww.startribune.com'templates/Print This_Story9sid=29472214 "If we take that money out ... we're no better than the offer from Waste Management. And if we're no better than Waste Management, then work with Waste Management." Waste Management attributes the decrease in tonnage, which other cities are also experiencing, to people reading fewer newspapers, manufacturers cutting back on packaging and a general switch from heavy glass to lighter plastic. Still, at Waste Management of Minnesota "there are many efforts underway to reinvigorate recycling," said Julie Ketchum, director of public affairs. And it partners with cities that want to better educate the public. What constitutes recycling? Waste Management -- which bills itself as the leading provider of comprehensive waste and environmental services in North America -- says it recycles all but about 6 percent of the materials it picks up. Eureka Recycling says it recycles all but about 1 percent. Eureka and others have questioned Waste Management's figure. They say the company is not including glass -- which does not fetch as high a price as other materials -- and that the glass eventually ends up in landfills. And that's true. But Waste Management says it's actually being recycled. Although the company does do glass -to -glass recycling, it re -uses much of the 3,000 tons of glass it collects monthly at its Twin Cities facility as a substitute for gravel in construction at its landfills. This "replaces the need to mine gravel, a natural resource," Ketchum said. The state also considers that recycling, said Mark Rust, a solid waste planner for the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. "All the different avenues" for recycling glass are important, Rust said, "especially in outstate areas where there's no way of getting material to a glass manufacturer and traveling 200 miles to one -- the energy balance doesn't even work on that one." But Eureka says that "truly" recycling glass bottles helps manufacturers keep from using virgin material to make new bottles. Making glass from new materials, versus recycled ones, uses 20 to 30 percent more energy, the state says. From the beginning, Eureka has tried to demonstrate that — while recycling glass in a way that others don't, accepting materials that others don't, and teaching residents why it's important to do both -- a recycler can still make money. Eureka's annual proceeds ranged from $4,700 to $243,771 between 2002 and 2006, tax records show. The great majority of its revenue comes from contracts, not grants. "The demonstration and the education is that you can do this," Hubbard said. "You can charge a fair price. You can actually recycle all of it. And you can make a profit, too." Jenna Ross • 612-673-716 Page 13 3 o1`4 9/23/2( Idea for the scrap heap gets traction http://www.startribune-conVtemplates'Print_T'his_StorOsid=29200904 StarTribUDe.com MINNEAPOLIS -ST- PAUL, MINNESOTA Idea for the scrap heap gets traction By LAURIE BLAKE, Star Tribune September 22, 2008 When Minnetonka gave Louise Miller the chance to do the next "green" thing, she jumped at it. Already known as the "Recycling Queen" by kids in the Hopkins School District, where she set up lunchroom recycling for students' food waste, Miller signed up immediately when Minnetonka started home recycling for food scraps and other organics last year. Now she's sold on the idea. Separating organics may sound like a lot of work, but it isn't, she said. "You have to throw it away anyhow. It's just a different bin." Organics recycling is beginning to catch on, driven in part by consumers like Miller who want to go green, by small haulers who see it as a niche market, and by a state law that sets a goal for counties to recycle 50 percent of all household garbage headed for landfills. But in the second year of the Minnetonka program, only about 550 of Minnetonka's 10,000 households have signed up. Around Hennepin County, organics recycling "is growing, but it's not growing as fast as we would like to see it," said John Jaimez, the county's organics recycling specialist. In part, growth is slow because budget constraints have prevented the state from providing money to promote organics recycling as it did curbside recycling for paper. glass and plastic, said Ginny Black, organics recycling specialist for the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Also, cities that might want to require organic recycling by contracting with a single hauler face stiff resistance from competing haulers and from residents who don't want to change haulers, Black said. But organics are the next big target for recycling because kitchen garbage -- including fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, bones, eggshells, coffee grounds, pizza boxes, paper towels and milk containers -- makes up about 20 percent of the waste stream, Black said. The state has been stuck for eight to 10 years at the 41 percent recycling level -- even though 60 percent of what is thrown away is recyclable — and organics are "the next big chunk of material" that could help counties meet the state's 50 percent recycling goal, Black said. Because organics create methane gas when buried in landfills, recycling them to become compost is the single best thing a resident can do to reduce harmful greenhouse gases, I of 9/23/2( Page 14 Idea for the scrap heap gets traction except for cutting back on driving, she said. http:!'www.startri btme.comhempl ates'Pri nt_This_Story'sid=29200904 So far Wayzata, Minnetonka, Loretto, Medina, Edina, Orono, Minneapolis, Chaska, Chanhassen, Watertown, Mayer and Burnsville are among the cities offering organics recycling to some or all residents. St. Paul, St. Bonifacius and Medicine Lake are working on it. Hennepin — with seven cities, 11 school districts and four county buildings doing some level of organics recycling -- is now recycling about 100,000 tons of organics a year, but the goal was to have reached 200,000 tons a year by now, Jaimez said. Residents' reluctance to sign up is because of a combination of factors, said Dean Elstad, recycling coordinator for Minnetonka. "It's change. It's something new. It costs more money," he said. Another damper on progress is the fact that not all Minnetonka haulers offer organics recycling. About 4,000 households in Minnetonka would have to switch haulers to get it, he said. But people who have signed up have found that if they pay the $4.50 a month for weekly organics recycling, they can reduce the cost of their regular trash pickup by $2 a month by reducing the size of their trash bin. And often they can cut it by another $2 a month by going to every -other -week collection, Elstad said. Minnetonka Mayor Jan Callison said that's what happened in her household. Like Miller, Callison keeps a plastic ice cream pail on her kitchen counter for food waste. "I love it," she said. "I feel good every time I put something in the organic bin and think it's not going into a landfill." Minnetonka was nudged into the program by the example of neighboring Wayzata, where four years into organics recycling, an estimated 75 percent of its households participate, according to Wayzata recycling coordinator Sonny Clark. To get started, Wayzata used a $145,000 grant from Hennepin County to pay for 38 -gallon carts for curbside pickup, one -gallon plastic buckets for kitchen countertops, some compostable bags and some how-to materials. A weekly $100 prize drawing for residents who set their carts out boosted participation, Clark said. To keep the program going, Wayzata petitioned Hennepin to reduce its tipping fee for organics. The county charges $49 a ton for trash and agreed to remove the state and county taxes from organics to drop the tipping fee to $15 a ton, Clark said. That provided a financial incentive for the city to keep recycling organics, he said. Randy's Sanitation, which is the only hauler for Wayzata under contract with the city, decided after seeing how much organics recycling reduced the waste stream in Wayzata that it had a responsibility to offer it in other communities, said operations director Jim Wollfchlager. 2of3 9 Page 15 �; Idea for the scrap heap gets traction http://www.startribLine.conVtemplates!Print This_Story9sid=29100904 "In all the cities where we collect organics, residents are finding they can go to every - other -week trash service and that more than pays for the organics collections," he said. The value of other recycled products — paper, cans, bottles and aluminum -- helps Randy's pay for the cost of adding organics service, he said. Allied Waste has not yet begun offering organics recycling for homes, although it provides organics recycling for business and school accounts, said general manager Erik Schuck. The company is studying costs to make sure it would be a sound move. Miller said the reduction in her garbage as a result of organics recycling has motivated her to reduce her waste further by buying in bulk to cut packaging. "It's a game now," she said: "How little can I throw away?" Laurie Blake • 612-673-1711 © 2008 Star Tribune. All rights reserved. 3of3 9/23/201 Page 16 �d $'• 's�31 49Y = SEPTEMBER2008 VOLUME 37 NUMBER 9 Plymouth, \I inn. [No. 1, "America's Best Places to Live,' August] is an awesome small cin'; it's hill of choices. "e recently sold our four- bedroom, tyvo-bath home there for less than S300.000. It was a great brit for the new folks, and a reasonable price for us—but I already miss our terrific neighbors. \rho threw a parr• for us when we left. I recommend living in Plymouth to anvone who really wants to be a part of their community. Carol Johnson Northfield, Minn. Tss a native of your No. 2 selection, Fort Collins, Colo.—and someone who misses everything about it—I'm glad von recognize and appreci- ate the city for what it is. Fort Collins is beautiful, clean, relatively safe and respectable in every way. I pray that something takes me back there sooner rather than later. Rob Lee East Dundee, Ill. -_AV1N!GS s/-1' Inspired by "How to Downshift Your Car Insurance Costs" [Do It Now, July], I went online and had more than 10 auto and home quotes within hours. After speaking with a number of companies, my wife and I decided to change our cover- age. In doing so we reduced our annual,, expense by more than 51,500, a 50% sav- ings! Knowledge trine is power. Thanks! Robert Gutierrez Houston I .as happ}- to read about people who managed to get out of the credit-card trap [''Life Without Plastic," July], and I hope their stories give encouragement to others who are still stock. I've virtually always paid off my balance in full each month— which mal help explain how I retired comfortably at age 55 while many former co-workers are still toiling a\vay. Edward E. Brown liancom'ecM'ash. If properly used. plastic can be great for having a transaction record and leverage in disputes and gathering reward points. Excessive credit-card usage is a sorptom of a bigger problem—a lack of self-control and responsible spending habits. which won't be solved bvjust cutting tip the cards. Ron Davignon Dade Citv, Fla. Ip September zoos Money Your story about the challenges an urban professional couple faced in moving into farming [rrIn Search of a Simpler Life," July] opened my, eves. I had been consid- ering doing something similar a Tear from now, but after reading the details I realize that I need to plan more and mavbe work a little longer to build up a bigger nest egg. I certainly don't want to go from 0 `J make a difference. I hope that others will take these tips to heart. Steve Collier Houston to Americas Best Places to Live"(,Air .grist], die hgure for _lobl,�ou•th since 2000 in RoundRock, Texas should have been 9510.;. .Also, the three best places u) find a hob among our top 100 small cities should have been V When younger colleagues ask me about investing, commend MONEY as a great place to start, so Ieyn learn the basics before talking to brokers or nancialolanners.. working 10 hours a day four days a to something longer—that would d the purpose of the transition! Frank D Alupay Sari Francisco Your recent discussion of dealing with the high (economic and environmental) price of gas ["Drive a Little Greener, Save a Little Green;Your, Minim S Your Life, July] was extrenheh- helpful. I have put into place all of the suggestions you provided for saving gas, and the%do Frisco. Texas; BlcKinmw. Texas: and Allen. Texas. "What You Need to Know (and Had etre'Fond Ont) About I'mu-Spouses rep,—r- abh c ri G �c hra areio nt l,,, niurtinvprnlcrr, _.. ..... 11:Ishinitnnan.r ll -i sr rail:,... ._. habl4_to, alldebe,mcurred'ifierrry .: Tao can write to AIONF.I' at moneyAetters@moneymail.com. Page 17 MINUTES PLYMOUTH HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY July 24, 2008 PRESENT: Chairman Steve Ludovissie, Commissioners Paul Caryotakis, Penny Hatcher, Jeff Kulaszewicz, and Bob Stein ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: Housing Program Manager Jim Barnes and Office Support Representative Chele Kovacevick OTHERS PRESENT: Grace Management Representative Jodie Boedigheimer 1. CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ludovissie called the Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority meeting to order at 7:00 P.M. Chairman Ludovissie addressed the letter submitted by the residents of Vicksburg Commons and requested it be added to the agenda as New Business item 3C. 2. CONSENT AGENDA A. Approve HRA Meeting Minutes from June 26, 2008. Commissioner Hatcher recommended that the minutes be adopted as amended. Seconded by Commissioner Kulaszewicz. Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. B. Plymouth Towne Square. Accept monthly housing reports. C. Vicksburg Crossing. Accept monthly housing reports. D. CDBG. Review Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER). MOTION was made by Commissioner Ludovissie, seconded by Commissioner Caryotakis to approve the consent agenda. Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. 3. NEW BUSINESS A. Vicksburg Crossing. Marketing update. Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer reported that the month of June was very quiet at the Vicksburg Crossing site but July has picked up as a result of the 55 Plus magazine insertion. However, many of the calls generated by the magazine insertion were in regard to Page 18 Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority July 24, 2008 Page 2 affordable units versus the market rate units. A birthday party was held at the property for this month's resident birthdays and its' reception was outstanding as residents came to the office and remarked how special the event was. A new tag line has been added to the Sun newspaper insertion which mentioned Plymouth's recent #1 rating by Money Magazine. National Night Out will be a big event at the property and Grace Management's Sara Paquette will be re -contacting everyone who has made a rental deposit and all the prior contacts to introduce herself and to reenergize those contacts. Ms. Peterson is working two part -days to relieve Ms. Paquette of some responsibilities in order for her to do the follow-up work. Commissioner Kulaszewicz asked about the residents' reception of the public forum which was conducted as part of last months HRA meeting. Ms. Boedigheimer indicated that the residents would like to see a written response from the Board to the letter submitted by them at that forum. The community room policy has become a non -issue since it was mentioned initially. Chairman Ludovissie asked about the Fall schedule for open houses. Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer has not made any concrete plans as of yet but she and Ms. Paquette will be making plans soon A post office style box with brochures will be stationed in the lobby to display "sorry we missed you" notes for after hour visitors. Chairman Ludovissie commented on the power of momentum in any marketing effort. Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer said that Vicksburg Crossing marketing brochures have been distributed to nearby senior centers. The traditional senior fairs which were widespread just a few years ago have become almost non-existent according to Commissioner Hatcher. She also mentioned that the Plymouth Tuesday music events are being heavily attended by seniors, especially the jazz and blues venues. Housing Manager Barnes mentioned that careful consideration would have to be made before introducing a marketing event in conjunction with a City of Plymouth public event. Commissioner Hatcher suggested buying paid advertisement for Vicksburg Crossing inside the Dial -a -Ride Buses. Housing Program Manager Barnes said he would look into this option. Housing Program Manager Barnes asked if the signage at the Vicksburg Crossing site should be amended to read: Senior Community. Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer said she has looked into a couple of options for changing the sign. She stated that if we add new lettering to the sign it may not look professional. The other option would be to have a new sign created, but that would cost around $4,00045,000 dollars. Commissioner Caryotakis asked if local churches have been approached as a potential marketing outlet. Yes, per Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer, but because there are very few staff on site during the week, Grace Management's Ms. Paquette is beginning with phone calls to churches in order to pre - qualify opportunities prior to making site visits. She also mentioned that the current vacancy rate is down to only about 10 units. Commissioner Caryotakis asked if the slow lease -up being experienced is part of the exposure challenge or part of the slow economy in general. Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer speculated that 90% of the lease -up issues are tied to the sale of a backup single family home. Commissioner Caryotakis wondered if shorter term leases at the affordable rates would advance the goal of a full lease -up. Housing Manager Barnes said no, because once leased -up, those residents would not be motivated to move out and it would be difficult to return the units to market rate. Commissioner Caryotakis also asked if Vicksburg Crossing could be used as a conduit into Plymouth Towne Square occupancy. Chairman Ludovissie said that the building needs to maintain it's image as a solid market rate building to ensure its' future viability. In regard to using Vicksburg Crossing as a conduit into Plymouth Towne Square, Commissioner Hatcher remarked that the moving about strategy is not one recommended for seniors as a group. Page 19 Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority July 24, 2008 Page 3 Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer mentioned that she and Ms. Paquette are considering some sort of promotion in conjunction with the State Fair, perhaps free tickets to the Fair. Commissioner Kulaszewicz mentioned that according to housing analysts, the senior housing sector is overbuilt. Trillium Woods and the Erickson project are both senior -centered units with very different markets. One is high-end and the other has on-site services attached. Commissioner Hatcher mentioned that she has observed many one -level non -senior market units largely occupied by seniors. B. Plymouth Towne Square. Review request to waive waiting list policy. Chairman Ludovissie asked Housing Manager Barnes to explain the waiver request. Housing Program Manager Barnes explained that currently a request has been made to staff to consider awarding the next available unit to a family facing foreclosure on their home. The unit was previously awarded to the next person on the waiting list who unfortunately could not move into the two bedroom unit because of the death of their spouse. He remarked that if the board felt that this is an issue that should be addressed that a policy should be created to address these situations rather than acting on a case-by-case basis. Commissioner Hatcher asked what the time frame looks like once a waiting list candidate is notified of an available unit. Housing Program Manager Barnes replied that 30-60 days is the usual time frame to move into another unit once notice has been given at their current address. Chairman Ludovissie questioned what the working definition is of "homeless" and how do you fairly assess it. Housing Program Manager Barnes explained that Plymouth's preference system has been regarded as somewhat controversial since it makes a distinction between residents and non-residents. Chairman Ludovissie mentioned that the goal of the preference was to not draw any money outside of the city in order to take care of their own residents. Housing Program Manager mentioned the scenario of a five year wait by an applicant and suddenly a foreclosure name would pop to the top of the list, ahead of the person who had waited a substantial amount of time. The average wait time on the list is about three years per Housing Program Manager Barnes. Commissioner Hatcher asked if there isn't another resource for this family besides Plymouth Towne Square. Commissioner Caryotakis mentioned that a glut in foreclosures would put all those folks to the top of the list. Chairman Ludovissie said the policies need to be straight forward and very clear, especially because of the direct connection to HUD regulatory powers, and is concerned that the Board address this issue even handed and equitably. Commissioner Caryotakis asked if the new 3.5 billion bill currently before Congress will in anyway benefit the City of Plymouth. Probably not, according to Housing Program Manager Barnes who stated that according to the City of Plymouth Assessors Office, Plymouth has not been hit as hard as some other communities. Chairman Ludovissie asked if the board is willing to discuss and potentially amend our Administrative Plan at this time. A motion was made by Chairman Ludovissie, seconded by Commissioner Caryotakis to not make any changes to the waiting list procedure. Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. Page 20 Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority July 24, 2008 Page 4 C. Response to Vicksburg Crossings Residents Letter Housing Program Manager Barnes summarized the mortgage and chain -of -command questions which had been raised at the public forum. The profit motive question was also addressed at that meeting. The minutes could be distributed to the residents as a means of clarification. Grace Management Representative Boedigheimer remarked that it was more the tone rather than the content of the community room policy letter that the residents objected to. Some residents stated that their access to the patio was being restricted when the community room was being used for a private function. The policy for private use of the room is to reserve the space and place a $100 deposit, which is used to ensure cleaning and to cover any damages. Usually the reservations are being done on less than a week's notice and perhaps at a frequency of only one time per month. Housing Program Manager Barnes will review and address the letter. The concerns about changing the acoustics in the community room as well as the windy nature of the patio would have to be addressed as funds become available. Perhaps a large arborvitae could be planted on the non -trail side (not generator side) in order to create a natural wind barrier. There are some non -discretionary (drainage/erosion) issues that need to be addressed first. The concerns about the dead plants will be handled by the Forestry department who will submit a bid to the board. The trail side shrubs will not be replaced based on the recommendation of the City Forester. Items number one and three are concerns of the same resident as she is trying to maintain clean walls and is finding the flat finish to be not as washable as other finishes. Commissioner Stein noted that the building was constructed according to commonly accepted building practices and with industry standard materials. Item number four is to be considered at a later time. Item number six in regard to volunteerism is terrific and would be very much appreciated. Ms. Peterson or Ms. Paquette would be the contact to make arrangements. The power sweeping of the garage is done twice a year and is an expensive process. The request for auto -debiting for rent payments is not available right now because Grace Management's financial system is not equipped for that option. 4. ADJOURNMENT Motion to adjourn by Commissioner Hatcher, seconded by Commissioner Kulaszewicz. The meeting was adjourned at 8:08 p.m. Page 21 MINUTES PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT City Council Chambers Wednesday, August 27, 2008 7:00 p.m. Present: Chair, Sylvia Gustafson; Commissioners, Terry Cheng; Vivian Honer, Patty Doten, Mary Paprocki, Carmen Pehler, Terry Bliss Staff: Sarah Hellekson, Transit/Solid Waste Manager; Bernie Maciej, Transit Coordinator; Diane Tiegs, Committee Reporter Absent: Council Member Sandy Hewitt Others: Jim Baldwin, First Transit Services Meeting called to order at 7 p.m. by Chair Person Gustafson Approval of Agenda Motion made by Commissioner Cheng and seconded by Commissioner Paprocki to approve the agenda as amended. Motion carried. 2. Approval of minutes for the July 23, 2008 PACT meeting Motion made by Commissioner Doten and seconded by Commissioner Honer to approve the July 23, 2008 PACT minutes. Motion carried. 3. Public Forum: Dial -A -Ride Service Changes Bonnie Wittenberg 12300 43`d Ave N Plymouth, shared concerns about daily commuter services. When the drivers are switched they are not briefed and many problems arise each time the drivers are rotated. Since the rotation of drivers her shuttle has experience rude behavior from the drivers, the bus is filthy, and the air conditioning not working during the hottest time of the season. Ms Wittenberg inquired to the maintenance schedule. Ms Wittenberg also related an incident and the response time for backup. She stated 4 buses passed their broken down bus on the freeway and did not stop to assist. Manager Hellekson stated the route number, date, and time of day would be helpful when reporting incidents. First Transit Representative Baldwin stated the bus cleaning schedule is daily on the inside and weekly on the outside. Manager Hellekson thanked Ms Wittenberg for her comments and information. Page 22 Monica Dominquez of 10000 45th Ave in Plymouth questioned if complaint calls made directly to First Transit are relayed to the transit staff at the City. Ms. Dominquez stated that on Wednesday, August 20, bus 2110 broke down and the driver requested that the passengers walk across the 4 -lane highway. The passengers refused and a back-up bus finally arrived 1 hour later. This incident is currently being investigated per First Transit Representative Baldwin. Gloria Nordquist, 1304 W Medicine Lake Drive in Plymouth, stated she has been a Dial -A -Ride user for the past 5 years. The number 2202 bus is her favorite bus. She stated it would be helpful for seniors if the bridge were put down to alleviate lifting groceries up the steps and down the bus aisle. Dial -A -Ride Service Changes Public Hearing Transit Manager Hellekson's opening comments explained that the City Council requested the Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit (PACT) to re-evaluate the transit program for efficiency. This public hearing is another opportunity for input from City of Plymouth residents. During the special meeting of City Council asked the PACT to consider other options due to budget issues and rising fuel the prices. The primary funding source for the Dial -a -Ride service is the motor vehicle excise tax and the current revenue is less than projected. The revenue is based on the number of licenses sold and the price they are sold at. Also less funding is directed into transit. The PACT realizes this is an important service to our residents. The PACT would like to hear feedback from the residents at this time. La Donna Hoy and Kathryn Johnson representatives of Wayzata/Interfaith Outreach stated a key barrier that Interfaith Outreach clients struggle with is transportation. Their client's transportation will be deeply impacted by the proposed change in accessibility and the cost increase because of their fixed income. Dial -a -Ride is their only mode of transportation. These clients are single mothers and low income families using the service to commute to work and around the community. Other issues for some residents would hinder them from obtaining their GED's or attending ESL classes to assist them in becoming employable. They would like the City to work on creative solutions. Written commentaries were submitted for the PACT to review. Janet Knave 8th Ave N, Bill Weir and John Lindquist of 10505 8th Ave N, represented Plymouth Bassett Creek Commons Senior Building and stated residents depend on Dial -a -Ride. The Dial -a -Ride fee was .75 and increased to $2.00 and now a proposed rate increase to $3.50 will be a hardship for the senior citizens. The Bassett Creek residents are already in subsidized housing. The residents need the Dial -a -Ride transportation for shopping and medical Page 23 appointments. If the Saturday hours are cut this would be acceptable but the fare increase is much more than the residents can afford. Ruth Gregory 14811 Gleason Lake Drive a school counselor and parent of 2 with disabilities presented printed comments to the PACT and notified over 30 organizations. Ms Gregory believes this is a civil rights issue. Her daughter is on supplemental income and the most she can make is $600 per month. She uses Dial—a-Ride. Statute 504 is a civil rights statute that comes with no funding. However the handicapped depend on the Dial -a -Ride services. Rose Lyveck, 10505 81h Ave N #215, Basset Creek stated Dial -a -Ride is important to the residents and without it they would feel like they are in prison because there would be no affordable transportation. Myrna Klobachar 10715 57th Ave N represented the Plymouth Senior program. This program is to help seniors be independent. Consider the community safety issue for seniors that need to transition from driving to riding. Plymouth is known as a senior serving community. Judith Dzurik 16935 27th Ave N, stated Dial -a -Ride is a wonderful service and She would have no way to get to work without it. Kim Voss 1304 W Medicine Lake Dr represented Interfaith Outreach shared that for people to get ahead transportation is a huge issue. The Vicksburg Commons residents use Dial -a -Ride to get to work, educational classes, shopping, medical, and for many this is their only option for transportation. Vicksburg Commons is located on the edge of the Plymouth and was developed a year ago with 50 units in partnership with the City and Dial -a -Ride was a consideration when developing that projecting. Many families have no vehicle or only 1 vehicle and Dial -a -Ride allows them transportation to earn 2 incomes. Homeless families use Dial -a -Ride for all their transportation needs. We need this component and urge the City Council to continue the service. Kay Johnson, 3820 Dallas Lane N, commented on the importance of the Dial -a - Ride service. Monica Dominquez of 10000 45th Ave in Plymouth uses Dial -a -Ride because it there and I use it every weekend to work at Ridgedale Mall. The fare increase is still less expensive that taking a taxi. Gloria Nordquist, 1304 W Medicine Lake Drive in Plymouth would like a bus to go to 10:00 one night a week so residents would have an opportunity to see a high school play or other types of programs. Currently there isn't a bus that runs late enough in the evening. The Public Hearing is closed at 8:47 pm Page 24 Chair Person Gustafson responded to residents comments regarding Metrolink service at Vicksburg and County Road 47. This would solve many problems. Commissioner Cheng asked the audience what the worst case scenario would be if Dial -a -Ride services were eliminated and what would be the alternative. The response was employment would be most greatly impacted. Residents did not offer any alternatives. Commissioner Cheng asked City Staff in attendance what the City Council's vision is for transit and Dial -a -Ride services in Plymouth. Is it to be run like a business for profit or is it a service to the community? Commissioner Bliss commented that the PACT has been working the past 4 years on other alternatives and have exhausted resources. Chair Person Gustafson did a study and analysis of communities and by far Plymouth's services are superior, now due to the costs, adjustments have to be made. This decision is not something that has not been done lightly. Commissioner Doten feels that the increase is something the City must do to continue services otherwise how long can we afford to continue. Many residents rely on this because they do not have the ability to walk 1-2 blocks for Metro Transit buses. Chair Person Gustafson closed discussion. The current motion is the Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit recommends to the Plymouth City Council to eliminate Saturday Dial -A -Ride services and increase the bus fare from $2.00 to $3.50. A Motion was made by Commissioner Bliss proposing an amendment to the current motion to increase the fare from $2.00 to $3.00 instead of $3.50. Commissioner Doten seconded. Motion carried with Commissioners Bliss, Doten, Paprocki, Cheng in favor and Commissioners Pehler and Honer against. Manager Hellekson will present the recommendation to Plymouth City Council: The Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit recommends to the Plymouth City Council to eliminate Saturday Dial -A -Ride services and increase the bus fare from $2.00 to $3.00 across the board. 4. Cub Foods Park -n -Ride Improvements Update Improvements are now completed on the concrete work and bus pad at Cub Foods. The lighting and shelter are not complete. Engineering and Excel Energy are addressing the parking lot lighting but Excel Energy is holding up timely progress. Striping of the Park -n -Ride and at Messiah church will be done Page 25 at the same time. Railings are not in yet and sod will be done after the lights are installed. Chair Person Gustafson inquired whether there have been issues with parking during improvements. The response was no as work is done evenings and weekends to alleviate disturbing the commuters. Commissioner Bliss stated the Four Season's name should be taken off the Park -n -ride sign and replaced with Cub Foods. Electronic signs need to be reprogrammed on buses or otherwise shut off. Mr. Baldwin, First Transit, stated a resident asked if the bus could pull closer to the crosswalk but due to the location of the pad and the striping at Cub Food this cannot be done and should be addressed. Manager Hellekson will look further into the issue. S. Transit Coordinator Maciej is meeting with First Transit Staff to assure specs for the new buses are correct and will inform the MET Council the requirements needed. The 800 MHz radios/security issues will be addressed during that meeting and forwarded on to MET Council. 6. Minneapolis Access Plan Update Transit Coordinator Maciej reported that on September 8, 2008 the Metro Transit route will move to Hennepin Avenue until mid to late November. Then the route will move to Marquette for the winter and back to Hennepin Avenue in spring. Chair Person Gustafson inquired about security during the winter month on Hennepin Avenue. Transit Coordinator Maciej stated that the Minneapolis Police has instructed transit users to call 911 should they feel threatened or uncomfortable. Transportation users should call the Minneapolis Police to express their concerns regarding security. Commissioner Honer requested a brochure for the 772 bus regarding route changes. 7. Transit Coordinator Maciej presented the Plymouth Transit Performance Measurements for Julv July I Year to Date Dial -A -Ride 5,551 135,225 MetroLink 42,374 1286,897 System Total 47,925 1322,122 Dial a ride was way up due to music in Plymouth. Chair Person Gustafson requested status on the measurements for on-time and ridership statistics. After discussion it was suggested to postpone until the downtown construction is completed to obtain accurate information. Commissioner Honer made a motion to postpone the measurements and statistics report until the bus routes affected by the Minneapolis construction project are completed. Motion carried. Page 26 Transit Manager Hellekson will monitor the construction progress and bring the issue to the PACT Committee when the measurement/statistics can begin. 8. Identify areas of concern and/or recommendations (Complaint Logs) Commissioner Cheng stated there is an issue with shuttle bus 777 at station 73 6:45 a.m. which parks on the street blocking the entry. The shuttle should stage in the station. First Transit Representative Baldwin will address this issue. Vivian Commissioner Honer would like the cell phone usage signs to be posted as soon as possible. Commissioner Honer also inquired if the PACT Committee can be informed of the source of the complaints as there seem to be questionable complaints regarding speed limits. Chair Person Gustafson stated she received complaints from passengers regarding unsafe speed. The First Transit policy for drivers is if stopped for speeding or recklessness they can be sited/terminated and pay the fine. Transit Coordinator stated all complaints are registered. Commissioner Paprocki had no concerns. Commissioner Pehler still has issues with 776 route and the staging on Schmidt Lake Road. The staging was changed to further back but over the past month the bus is staging closer to the Terraceview, Lane. Chair Person Gustafson stated a number of passengers have concerns because of poor lighting and safety. Allow the bus to stage by Terraceview Lane during the winter months until longer daylight hours. Transit Manager Hellekson will review the area. There is a bench that sits in the dark and there may be an option to install better lighting. This area will be under consideration when routes are reviewed. Commissioner Doten had no concerns. Commissioner Bliss relayed to the group that riders complained about drivers not using the shoulder lane on 169 and by not taking the shoulder lane the bus was behind schedule. First Transit Representative Baldwin stated passenger safety is first and some drivers need to become accustomed to this practice and do not use until they become more experienced. Safety is the driver's first concern. Issues ride home 8/27 on 790 4:15 because of switching drivers. The driver started to take the wrong exit on 169 and swerved at the last minute. Also next to Cub Foods there is a bus stop for apartments. A passenger hit stop but the driver didn't stop and they are required to stop at that location. Transit Manager Helekson stated at the corner of 45th a stop is needed due to a handicapped rider and the ability to navigate the hill in the Cub Foods lot. Commissioner Bliss inquired about the radio dead zone. Transit Manager Hellekson stated that currently 800 MHz radio systems are being looked at and will alleviate the problem. Page 27 The next scheduled PACT meeting is September 24, 2008, at Plymouth City Hall in the Medicine Lake Room. 9. Motion made by Commissioner Honer and seconded by Commissioner Paprocki to adjourn. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Diane Tiegs, Committee Recorder Page 28 MINUTES OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING September 11, 2008 PRESENT: Commissioners: E. Singer, M. Smith, A. Vanderwall, G. Anderson, D. Anderson, P. Knight, N. Carroll Staff: E. Blank, D. Evans, D. Sankey Planning Commission Liaison: J. Davis ABSENT: City Council Liaison: B. Stein 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Singer called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. in the Council Chambers. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion was made by Commissioner Smith and seconded by Commissioner G. Anderson to approve the June minutes. Vote: 6 Ayes. Motion carried. Motion was made by Commissioner D. Anderson and seconded by Commissioner Carroll to approve the August minutes with revisions noted. Vote: 6 Ayes. Motion carried. Chair Singer introduced Jim Davis, the Planning Commission Liaison to the commissioners. Commissioner Vanderwall arrived after approval of minutes. 3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS a. Athletic Associations. None b. Staff: Staff Evans announced the upcoming Autumn Arts Fair, which will be held September 20. Currently, we have 35 artist exhibits, with senior crafters also on hand. There will also be a variety of musical entertainment and food to purchase. Plymouth on Parade will be on October 4 at 1:00. We anticipate 100-115 units. The Grand Marshal this year is the Plymouth Historical Society. The activities afterward, from 2:30- 5:00, include skating at the Ice Center, swimming at Lifetime Fitness, a petting zoo and hay rides. The Ducky Derby is sponsored by the Plymouth/Minnetonka Rotary. The Historical Society is offering a two-hour tour of historic sites in Plymouth. Call Gary Schiebe if you are interested in taking part. The fee is $7 per person. Evans explained that the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Award of Excellence is for outstanding initiative and projects. Plymouth Park & Recreation has received over a dozen of these awards over the years. Evans announced two new awards for the department tonight. The first is for the programming and events area for the new Rink Rat Hockey program. For the first season, 90 youth ages 5-10 participated. Participant evaluations were outstanding. It is a great alternative to club Page 29 PRAC Minutes/September 2008 Page 2 hockey. Congratulations are due to Dan Lauer and staff for developing this outstanding program. The second award is in the sponsorships and partnerships area for the public art banner project. This is co-sponsored with the Plymouth Fine Arts Council. Artists paint original art banners, which are hung on posts in downtown Plymouth. We currently have 20-30 banners and will add more each year. Congratulations go to Karol Klint Greupner and staff. Chair Singer congratulated the staff on these awards. Evans said that next year, we plan to showcase some of the banners at Primavera to encourage some of the artists to participate. Staff Blank announced that on September 26-28, the Ice Arena will host the indoor short track championship. All the top contending skaters will be competing. He described the intricate set-up for this event. Blank also spoke on Plymouth's designation by Money Magazine as the #1 Best Place to Live. He described the process, including the information they asked for and the photographer coming in from New York. It is a great honor, and having the award has been great fun. Chair Singer said a lot of credit should go to the city management and staff. 4. REPORT ON PAST COUNCIL ACTION a. None. 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Chair Singer asked about the sculpture for the Millennium Garden. Blank said that it hasn't gone to Council yet because we are working out details with the sculptor. a. Update - Zachary Park Building : Blank said that the baseball group has been held up by the Health Department. The City cannot issue a building permit until the project is approved by the Health Department. The permit should be issued tomorrow or Monday. The footing work will begin next week. The building will be ready to use by May of next year. b. Update -West Medicine Lake: Blank explained that there is a challenge with permitting with Corps of Engineers and the DNR, but we are working it out. The site plan will go to the Planning Commission for approval on September 21. An information mailing will go out to the neighborhood. Drawings are on the website. The site plan moves on to the City Council on October 14. We open bids on October 22 and award the bid on October 28. On November 20 construction will begin. We want to beat the frost for getting the footings in. We are shooting for a grand opening on the July 4 weekend. The IT Department is working on high tech equipment and installation. Evans and staff will work on research to have tools for the programs that we are planning to offer in the building. The coffee shop will be just a shell until a vendor is found, and then it will be finished to their needs. Commissioner Smith asked if the notification area of 500-700 feet could be expanded. Eric said it will be measured from the park boundary, not the building. Any one with a view will be contacted, plus across the lake to City of Medicine Lake. Chair Singer Page 30 PRAC Minutes/September 2008 Page 3 pointed out it will also be in the paper. Commissioner Carroll asked about the concerns of the Corps of Engineers. Wetland filling is the issue explained Blank. 6. NEW BUSINESS a. Capital Improvement Program: Blank announced that next Tuesday the City Council will review the entire Capital Improvement Plan. It will be back to PRAC for the October meeting. The Planning Commission will see it at its second meeting in October, then final approval by Council. Blank discussed and explained the projects listed on the plan. Commissioner Smith said he feels like $100,000 isn't enough budgeted for trails because there is a lot of need. Commissioner Carroll asked if a trail is defined as just in the parks or along the road. Blank said both. Commissioner Carroll asked if during upgrading of the irrigation systems improvements are made to the fields if needed, especially one of the fields at Ridgemount. Blank said that for the field he mentioned there is a storm sewer pipe coming across street from Minnetonka. The school district built on a swamp, and the ground water is so high, there isn't much we can do. Commissioner Carroll is concerned from a safety standpoint. Blank said he will have it looked at. Chair Singer said she had been out to see this and had reported that it is in very bad shape. Regarding the tennis courts at Zachary Playfield, Blank explained they could be moved north in order to free up space for parking expansion. If PRAC approves this idea, a public notification and hearing would need to be done because there is a house nearby. The alternative would be to just renovate the present courts. Commissioner D. Anderson feels we should move the tennis courts and add parking. Commissioner Vanderwall agreed. Commissioner G. Anderson asked about the trail. Blank said it would be moved. Commissioner Carroll asked about the number of parking spots. Blank said that there are a few different layouts, the largest being 78 parking spots. Commissioner G. Anderson asked about adding bike racks. Blank said absolutely. In fact, they could be added at any time. There are some by the playground currently, and more could be added by the ballfields. Commissioner Knight asked how the homeowners find out about this. Blank said we would send out a letter to everybody on Arrowood Lane and invite them to come to the November meeting. Commissioner Knight asked how much opposition we usually get. Blank said you never know - it varies. Commissioner Smith said he likes the 78 parking space concept and wondered if there are any other options for placement of the tennis courts. Blank answered that we have not looked at any other options. There is a concept plan which would have parking spaces installed in the tree area. Commissioner Carroll asked if any trees would be left. Blank said that a lot of them would come down. In discussing the Skate Park upgrade, Planning Commissioner Davis asked where the old equipment would go. Blank answered that some would be discarded, but some pieces could be refurbished and put into neighborhood parks. Any piece reused must be safe and structurally sound. Evans pointed out that the old standard was 3 feet while the new standard is 4 feet, which makes it more fun. The League of Minnesota Page 31 PRAC Minutes/September 2008 Page 4 Cities has determined that 4 feet is acceptable as a risk. Commissioner Smith asked if we discourage skateboarding, since he has seen signs in the parks. Blank said it is OK in normal places, but not on picnic tables or handrails. Blank explained that we will be going from eleven outdoor hockey rinks to six, and Commissioner Vanderwall asked what the space will be used for. Blank said in the case of Zachary Playfield, it would probably become the pleasure skating rink. In other cases, the space would become a grassy area, perhaps for soccer training. Chair Singer felt it would be a good idea to put concrete under as many rinks as possible because they are used by roller bladders. Blank agreed that then it becomes a year round facility. Blank explained that all of these projects are dependent on money being available. We currently have about $2.5 million in park dedication funds, but no additional money is coming in right now because there is no new building. We have the remaining money from the bond referendum, which is available to purchase land. Money will eventually come in because Plymouth will build houses again. On the topic of land acquisition, Commissioner G. Anderson asked if we have to buy entire parcels. Blank said no, we do lot splits. He is currently looking at an 80 acre parcel and will probably buy 35 acres of it. Commissioner Vanderwall asked if we have given any thought to upgrading field conditions due to all the increased usage. Blank said yes, however that would be in the Park Maintenance budget. We have about 20 days between summer and fall seasons, and we have resodded during these times. We have also taken a field out of use for 3- 4 months to reseed it, which gives better results. Commissioner Smith asked if we have considered dog park improvements or the possibility of a second dog park. Blank said we are monitoring whether we need a second one. Three Rivers Park District is looking at putting in a major dog park in Plymouth or Maple Grove, although they are leaning towards Maple Grove. Right now, we are comfortable with the one we have. 7. COMMISSION PRESENTATION: Commissioner Smith presented information on a proposed trail from Dunkirk Lane to Vicksburg Lane. He expressed great interest in this project and feels it could serve many people. It would connect two major business centers and would also link to Plymouth downtown areas. It would be safer than people riding bikes on Highway 55. He suggested that it could be tied into Maplecreek Park and move it from a $100,000 trail project to a $300,000 park project. Some people in the area thought the northwest greenway project would include spaces like this in other parts of town. Commissioner G. Anderson thought it would be a wonderful addition. Commissioner Knight said he sees the area from Highway 55 and thinks it is a very attractive property. It would be nice to have it developed. Chair Singer pointed out that this could be a larger project than originally proposed. Blank said that we typically choose a preferred project in April for improving the trail system at which time a price would be put on it. $150,000 would probably be a low figure. If this is the site PRAC wants to do in 2009, he would bring it to the Council Tuesday night. Commissioner Vanderwall feels it would be a great project, but from a fiscal prospect, it looks huge. He was not sure about 2009, but maybe in next 5 years. Commissioner Smith pointed out that it looks like we are Page 32 PRAC Minutes/September 2008 Page 5 getting about $50,000 from 8 lots that went in the new development. Commissioner D. Anderson would like to see more information coming from a cost study. Staff and engineering should study it first. Commissioner Carroll asked if whether procedurally a placeholder could be placed on the money until a study has been done. Commissioner Smith suggested it could it be earmarked as a separate project, pushing some other projects out a ways. He is looking for a way to keep the project out there for discussion. Blank said it would be a trail project, not a park project, and we need to take time to study the issue. Chair Singer stated that the consensus seems to be to have staff bring back more information next month. Jackie Archibold of 16915 32nd Avenue N. spoke to the Commission. She is a neighbor of Commissioner Smith. She said that the neighborhood is quite excited at the possibility of biking over to the shopping center area. She is one of the people who thought the Northwest Greenway would include additional projects. Commissioner G. Anderson suggested another site for a trail south of County Road 9 and east of Vicksburg Lane. Blank said that the cable company owns this space, and we are asking them to sidewalk it. Chair Singer reported that she has been driving by Kilmer Park, and people are out there using the new equipment. 8. STAFF COMMUNICATION Director Blank spoke on the Ducky Derby, which is a fundraiser for the Plymouth/Minnetonka Rotary. The Rotary just donated four laptop computers to the Plymouth Creek Center which were purchased with some of their fund raising money. The race is at the Hilde Center at 2:45 after the parade. 9. ADJOURNMENT Chair Singer entertained the motion to adjourn. MOTION was made by Commissioner D. Anderson and seconded by Commissioner Carroll. Vote: 7 Ayes. MOTION approved. The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m. The next meeting will be held on October 9, 2008 at the Ice Center. Donna Sankey- PRAC recorder Page 33 Revised: 9/23/08 City of Plymouth Engineering Department Active and Pending Public Improvement Projects Proj. or CIP Proj. Proj, Estimated No. Type Project Description Manager Consult Total Cost Current Notes Active Public Improvement Projects 1013 S Fernbrook Ln. - 27th to 34th - DC/BM SRF $5,741,000 Construction started on 7/16/07. Utilility cordination for 2008 held Design & ROW & Construction on 3/4/08. Xcel Energy has relocated the two power poles south of Hwy 55 as of April 1. Eureka Construction is antcipating starting the remaining work beginning the week of April 14. all work except for restoration with seed sod and plantings south of Hwy 55 to be complete on or before 6/27/08. All underground work and retaining wall south of hwy 55 completed as of 5/6/08. Sidewalk and trail north of TH 55 completed on 5/23. Base paving south of TH 55 completed on 5/23. All concrete work expected to be completed by 6/18. Final bituminous layer and pavement marking expected to be completed by 6/27. Final paving and striping completed 717/08. 8/26/08 Contractor completing punch list items. 3105 WR Plymouth Creek Pond DA Wenck $900,000 Westwood is preparing the wetland replacement plan application. There are discussions with BARR Eng regarding a feasability study for the Plymouth Creek stream restoration project which may be able to be used for part of the wetland replacement requirement. Staff has a meeting with the Army Corps of Engineers on July 29th to discuss wetland mitigation. Staff will be meeting with Westwood at the end of August or early September to finalize the wetland replacement plan application. Permit applications are expected to be submitted to the Army Corps, DNR, and Bassett Creek Watershed by the end of September. Westwood is working on the wetland replacement applications. 4135 WR CR 61/CR 9 Erosion Site DC BRA $350,000 Contract awarded to G.F.Jedlicki, Inc. on 5/13. Preconstruction meeting held on 5/29/08. Clearing and grubbing of trees north of Co. Rd 9 along with installation of silt fence and orange safety fencing. As of 8/15/08, 95% of work including restoration completed north of Co. Rd 9. All pipe work, pond dredging and riprap drainwa s corn leded as of 9/12/08 south of Cc Rd 9. 4145 S S. Shore Drive Bridge JR BRA $350,000 Final plans have been approved by MnDOT. Waiting to see when Replacement fundinq becomes available. 5102 S CR 101, CR 6 to CR 24 DC/BM Henn. Co. $17,000,000 Preliminary layout of CR 101 approved by City Council on 10/11/05. The plan is 30% complete. Met with Hennepin County 4/4/06. City staff will do engineering for watermain replacement. EAW comments received and approved by County. The plan is 90% complete. The County has sent out property acquisition letter to affected property owners. City working on watermain replacement plan. Condemnation has been initiated by the County. Current schedule anticipates receiving Bids in May 2008 and starting construction in August, 2008. City Council Orders Improvement of Co. Road 101 on 2/26 and special assessments become pending. County revises schedule to a bid opening on 8/12/08 with construction starting on 10/13/08. Xcel Energy started relocating both its undergroung and overhead lines the end of March. Some clearing of trees was also necessary to facilitate thier work. Environmental assessment public hearing was held on 5/14/08 at Hennepin County Public Works facility in Medina. County staff indicated the project will be bid in December 2008 with construction Ito be in April 2009. Page 1 C:\Documents and Settings\lbaird\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\OLK181\Active_Pending_Proj_Rpt_092- Page 34 Revised: 9/23/08 City of Plymouth Engineering Department Active and Pending Public Improvement Projects Proj. or CIP Prot. Proj- Estimated No. Type Project Description Manager Consult Total Cost Current Notes 5122 S CR 24, Olive Ln. to 32nd Ave. DC/BM Henn. Co. $2,500.000 Preliminary layout approved by City Council 6/14/05. Construction scheduled for 2008. Design in progress. Received Draft Layout 2/21/06. Met with Hennepin County design staff on 5/2/06. City staff will do design engineering for walermain replacement. Met with utility companies on 5/24/06. Received draft plan on 5/23/06. City watermain replacement plan completed and submitted to the County. Project has been put on indefinate hold by Hennepin County. 6103 WR Repair Erosion - Wood Crk. DA/BM Wenck $425,000 The contractor was sent a final punch list last week. This project is substantially complete. Survivability of plantings is largest remaining issue. Video of the storm sewer pipe indicated some potential problems. A second seeding of areas without vegetation will take place in mid September. 6108 S Intersection Imp. - CR 47 & CR DC $1.2 million Curb and gutter is complete and base course paving has been 61 done. Intersection (including the new turn lanes) is open for traffic for the winter. Next spring the concrete islands will be installed, the final lift paved and all restoration completed. Median curbs are scheduled to be placed the week of 5/26. All concrete work expected to be completed by 6/20. Final paving and striping completed 6/28/08. 6113 WR Wickman Erosion Project JR $250,000 Contractor has performed all punchlist items. 7101 S 2007 Street Reconstruction JR $3,620,000 Project is complete, with the exception of minor punchlist items. Project - Hawthorne Ponds Area. 7107 S 2007 Street Reconstruction JR $4,245,000 Project is complete, with the exception of minor punchlist items. Project - City View Acres 7111 WR Mooney Lake Pump Project DT/BM Wenck $250,000 Project was included in MCWD CIP for 2007. A cooperative agreement with MCWD was executed. Final park planting restoration work was done along with the bike trail repair. Construction has been completed except for final electrical power connections from Excel Eneray, and a start-up test. 7114 W Well 16 and Watennain SN BRA $1,710,000 Wellhouse plans are going to Planning Commission on 517/08. Watennain plans are 75% done and in for comment. Wellhouse site plans to be considered by City Council on 5/27. Well plans are completed and construction bids will be considered for approval by Council on 7/8/08. Well construction contract was awarded 7/8/08 and construction is underway. Raw watennain contract is out for bids and is scheduled for opening of bids on 10/1/08. Wellhouse tans are 90% complete. lete. 7135 WR Wild Wings Wetland Cleaning DA $175,000 Comments on the EAW were recieved from the MN DNR, MPCA, and Metropolitan Council. Several residents spoke in favor of the project at the public hearing. Permit applications are ready to be sent this week. Permit applications have been submitted. Staff has drafted responses to comments for consideration at the September 23, 2008 City Council meeting. Page 2 Q\Documents and Settings\lbaird\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\OLK181\Active_Pending_Proj_Rpt_ 09231 Page 35 Revised: 9/23/08 City of Plymouth Engineering Department Active and Pending Public Improvement Projects Prot or CIP Proj. Proj. Estimated No. Type Project Description Manager Consult Total Cost Current Notes 7138 WR TH 55 Culvert Replacement DA S.E.H. $485,000 Design is near completion and initial submittal to MnDOT has been and Wetland Cleaning Proejct done. SEH will be reviewing downstream effects of pipe size increase and recommending channel cleaning parameters downstream. Permits have been submitted to the DNR and USACOE. A permit to the BCWMC is required. 90% Plans have been submitted to Mn/DOT for review. Rights of Entry have been secured from the property owners on the north side of TH 55. Cooperative agreement with Mn/DOT to be considered by City Council on 5/27. Construction plans to be considered for approval by City Council on 7/8/08. Construction contract awarded 8/26/08 with Change Order No.1 to be considered by Council on 9/9/08. Preconstruction meeting scheduled for 9/12/08. Construction to be done as weekend work in September/ October 2008. Permits have been recieved from the Army Corps of Engineers. Waiting on the Bassett Creek Watershed. 8101 S 2008 Street Reconstruction JP $8,100,000 All underground utility work on the project has been Project completed. Any subcutting of streets remaining on the project is scheduled to be completed by September 26th. The rest of the curb is scheduled to be installed the week of September 29th, with base course paving scheduled the following week. Sod has been installed in phases 1-3 of the project, and rain gardens will be installed as soon as utility conflicts can be resolved. 8104 S 36th Avenue Street JR $550,000 Project delayed until 2009 due to Library and private development Reconstruction construction. 8105 S Hwy. 169 Frontage Road R/R DC $80,000 Council approves agreement with UP Rail on 2/12/08. Construction Crossing Replacement expected to commence in mid-September of 2008. 8106 S 2008 Temporary Overlay JR $370,000 Project has been completed by Northwest Asphalt. Project 8107 WR 26th Avenue Bridge JR BRA $250,000 Bridge Funds are not available this year. This project will be Replacement delayed until next year, when MnDOT funding is expected to be available. 8108 SS 28th Ave. Lift Station Upgrade JR/SN BRA $600,000 Engineering Construction & Innovations, Inc. is the low bidder. Forcemain installation has been completed. Wet well construction to resume on 8/27. 8109 S Niagara Lane Mill & Overlay DC $600,000 Plans and specifications approved on 2/12/08. Bid opening is Project March 20 at 10am. Lowest bidder is ASTECH Corp. Contract awarded on 4/8/08. Construction began 7/17/08. All concrete work completed by 8/22/08. Project is complete except for pavement markings and sodding of boulevard areas. 8110 S Fire Station #1 Parking Lot JR $145,000 Council has awarded project to Hardrives. Project to start end Reconstruction of the week of Sept 22 or beginning of Sept 29. 8111 SS 2008 Sanitary Sewer Lining JR $373,000 Veit has completed the contruction and has submitted the video of the lining. Staff preparing a punchlist for the project. 8112 P Old Rockford Road Trail JR $155,000 DMJ has completed the project with the exception of the seeding in the area, which will likely happen the week of Sept. 22. Page 3 C:\Documents and Settings\lbaird\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\OLK181V1ctive_Pending_Proj_Rpt_0923 page 36 Revised: 9/23/08 City of Plymouth Engineering Department Active and Pending Public Improvement Projects Proj or CIP Prof. Proj, Estimated No. Type Project Description Manager Consult Total Cost Current Notes 8113 WR 2008 Minor Drainage Impr. DT/DA WSB $200,000 These include 805 Ithaca, Cimarron Ponds, Camelot Overlook, 305 Magnolia, 315 Alvarado, 12th/Harbor LN, 41st & Goldenrod and Chelsea Woods. The 315 Alvarado site and the Camelot Overlook site have completed plans and watershed approvals. 30 day tree removal notification letters will be sent out for the Alvarado site with work expect to begin in late fall. The Camelot work is expected to commence in mid -winter. On September 9, 2008 the City Council rejected all bids on the Chelsea Woods and 8115 WR Timber Creek Improvements JR/DA $375,000 A neighborhood meeting is scheduled for Monday June 16th at 6pm in the Council Chambers to hear neighborhood concerns and review the wetland and survey information. Staff had a second neighborhood meeting on August 4th to review draft plans with the residents. Staff was on-site for the 3rd neighborhood meeting on August 27th to discuss proposed tree removals with residents. Permit applications have been submitted to the Army Corps, MN DNR, and Bassett Creek. Final plan sets are due in the next 2 weeks for consideration by the City Council at the first scheduled meeting in October. Pending Public Improvement Projects W-2 W Watermain - Vicksburg Ln. - _ $750,000 Dependent on development. A portion of the water main is CR 47 to Schmidt Lake Road anticipated to be installed pending approval of the Wood Crest development. Construction of the Wood Crest portion will begin in September. W-3 W Watennain - Cheshire Ln. - $370,000 Dependent on development. Construction is anticipated to be Glacier Vista to CR 47 started in 2009. BB Bud Broekema SS Sanitary BM Bob Moberg P Parks DC Dan Campbell W Water DT Dave Taylor WR Water JP Joe Paumen S Street JR Jim Renneberg SN Scott Newberger Unassigned Page 4 C:\Documents and Settings\lbaird\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\OLK181\Active_Pending_Proj_Rpt_09230f Page 37 Steve Smith State Representative District 33A Hennepin County Minnesota House of =- - Representatives COMMITTEES: ETHICS, VICE -CHAIR; PUBLIC SAFETY FINANCE DIVISION; WAYS AND MEANS; PUBLIC SAFETY AND CIVIL JUSTICE; LEGISLATIVE COMMISSION ON PENSIONS AND RETIREMENT REPRESENTING: MOUND, MINNETRISTA, ST. BONIFACIUS, SPRING PARK, INDEPENDENCE, MAPLE PLAIN, MEDINA, LORETTO, HAMEL, PLYMOUTH - WARD/PRECINCTS: W-1 P-5, W-1 P-7, W-2 P-9, W-2 P-10 September 15, 2008 Mayor Kelli Slavik City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd.. Plymouth, MN 55447-1482 Dear Mayor Slavik: I am pleased to congratulate you and the Plymouth City Council for helping to make Plymouth Money Magazine's choice as America's "No. 1 Best Place to Live!" What a terrific story of cultural and economic progress for the "greatest small city in America." I am not surprised! Plymouth has an extraordinarily successful history. From meager agricultural beginnings on the western edge of the Twin Cities metro area to the cusp of the technological world, there is so much to celebrate. Not only has Plymouth grown successfully in economic and cultural ways, but it has also grown in a family -friendly way. With its beautiful landscape, walkways and bike paths, beautiful parks, a quality education system and so much more, Plymouth is a welcoming city and its future is bright. Congratulations on the progress that you have made thus far. I know there is much more to come! If I can be of service to you or the City of Plymouth with anything pertaining to state government, please feel free to contact me. Sinc S ve Smith State Representative cc: Plymouth City Council 2710 Clare Lane, Mound, Minnesota 55364 472-7664 FAX: (651) 297-7523 Email: rep.steve.smith@house.mn ® Page 38 September 19th, 2008 Plymouth, MN 55446 Parcel #:06 - Please read the enclosed letter "Regarding: Changes To `Green Acres' Property Tax Law". There are new 2008 tax law changes that affect the Green Acres Program that you are currently enrolled in. The major changes will affect what is considered productive and non-productive acres and how the new payback amounts are calculated on acres that are withdrawn from the Green Acres program. Please note: The application will need to be filled out, signed, dated and returned to this office on or before January 2"d, 2009. If you have any questions concerning these changes please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, Paul Kingsbury, CMA Appraiser, City of Plymouth 763-509-5357 pkingsbu@ci.plymouth.mn.us Page 39 CITY OF PLYMOUTH ASSESSOR'S OFFICE 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth MN 55447 Phone: (763)509-5357 Email: pkingsbu@ci.plymouth.mn.us REGARDING: CHANGES TO `GREEN ACRES' PROPERTY TAX LAW Introduction The 2008 Tax Bill, recently signed into law, made several major changes to the Minnesota Agricultural Property Tax Law, commonly known as Green Acres. These changes will affect your Green Acres enrollment and payback. The purpose of this letter is to explain the law changes so that you will be able to make an informed decision on how best to alter your Green Acres tax deferment to best fit your specific situation for the long-term. Please read this letter carefully and if you have further questions, call the City of Plymouth Assessor for additional information. Green Acres Changes for the 2009 Assessment For any applications filed with the City of Plymouth Assessor after May 1, 2008, only some types of acres will be eligible for Green Acres: • Productive acres will remain eligible for the program. These acres are tilled, grazed, or mowed for hay. You may leave these acres in the program as is. Nothing has changed for acres that are used for agricultural production. • Non-productive acres will be valued at their full estimated market value and will not be eligible for the reduced, agricultural valuation provided by Green Acres. Non-productive acres include sloughs, wetlands, heavy woods, or land too rocky to be tilled or pastured. Under the previous standards, if you had enough productive acres (at least ten), any contiguous non-productive acres under the same ownership were also included in the Green Acres program. That will not be the case for applications filed after May 1, 2008. Enrollment Options If your property is currently receiving Green Acres benefits and it includes non-productive acres, you may choose to have those non-productive acres "grandfathered" into the program for future years, OR you may choose to withdraw all or some of the non-productive acres. You must make your selection and notify the assessor in writing by completing this form and returning it to the assessor on or before January 2, 2009. Payback Provisions This legislation also changed the number of payback years when parcels, or portions of parcels, no longer qualify for Green Acres. They are outlined below: If you intend to voluntarily withdraw some or all of your productive or non-productive acres: 1. You must notify the assessor of your intent by completing the attached form and returning it to the assessor on or before January 2, 2009; 2. The assessor will calculate the payback amount which is the average deferred taxes for the current year and two previous years times three (not to exceed the actual number of years enrolled in Green Acres). 3. Any deferred special assessments will be due on any full parcels withdrawn. If only a portion of a parcel is withdrawn, the special assessments may continue to be deferred. Interest will continue to accrue on any special assessments that are deferred. 4. The assessor will notify you of the payback amount during the summer of 2009. Following this notification, you must make your final determination as to whether or not you wish to formally withdraw any part of your land from Green Acres. Page 40 5. These deferred taxes and any special assessments will be due by November 15, 2009. * * If you sell your property on or before January 2, 2009, the non-productive acres that are sold cannot be grandfathered into Green Acres. A three-year payback must be collected. If you would like your non-productive acres to be grandfathered into Green Acres, you may do so. However, this cannot be done without conditions. After January 2, 2009, if all or any portion of your property currently enrolled in Green Acres is withdrawn, sold, transferred or subdivided: 1. You must pay back the average deferred taxes for the current and two previous years times seven for ALL non-productive acres (not to exceed the actual number of years enrolled in Green Acres); 2. Any deferred special assessments will also be due on any full parcels removed. If only a portion of a parcel is withdrawn, the special assessments may continue to be deferred. Interest will continue to accrue on any special assessments that are deferred. Future paybacks for productive acres will remain at three years (not to exceed the actual number of years enrolled in Green Acres). Valuation If you choose to leave the non-productive acres in the Green Acres program, the "grandfathered" acres will be valued at the lower, agricultural value that was shown on your 2008 value notice. For the 2009 assessment and future years, the 2008 value of the non-productive acres will increase at the rate of growth of the county tax base. The value of your productive acres will continue to be based on the Green Acres values determined annually for each county by the Department of Revenue. Any non-productive acres that are removed from Green Acres will be valued at their estimated market value. They will no longer be valued at their agricultural value. Please consider these options carefully to determine which option is best for you. Please complete the enclosed form and return it to us by January 2, 2009. Over the next several months we will estimate your payback amount and send you a new notice with that amount. Included with that notice will be another form that you will need to send back to the assessor's office to formally withdraw the land from Green Acres. If you have additional questions please contact the assessor's office. City of Plymouth Assessor's Office 3400 Plymouth Blvd Plymouth, MN 55447 Phone: (763) 509-5357 pkingsbu@ci.plymouth.mn.us *******The Hennepin County Assessor's Office in conjunction with your City Assessor will be holding two informational meetings designed to explain this legislation and help taxpayers make an informed decision.*******(You may attend either session) The first meeting will be held at: Maple Grove City Hall in the Council Chambers Tuesday, October 7, 2008 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This meeting is designed to include the northern tier cities (Greenfield, Corcoran, Maple Grove, Brooklyn Park, Dayton, Rogers, Hanover and Hassan). The second meeting will be held at: Independence City Hall Thursday, October 9, 2008 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This meeting is designed to include the southern tier cities (Independence, Medina, Plymouth, Minnetonka, Orono, Eden Prairie, Bloomington, and Minnetrista). Page 41 **PLEASE RESPOND BYJANUARY 2, 2009** AT THIS POINT IN TIME THIS FORM ISA"NON-BINDING" LETTER OF INTENT. Sometime in 2009 you will be mailed a second letter and asked to sign a commitment letter stating your "informed" intentions for your "Green Acres Property': OWNER NAME: OWNER ADDRESS: DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER: PROPERTY ID NUMBERS OF PARCELS OR PORTIONS OF PARCELS YOU WISH TO REMOVE FROM GREEN ACRES: This is to confirm that I have read the information concerning law changes recently made to the Green Acres tax deferral program. I understand that this will affect my property taxes. I also understand the payback provisions that pertain to any non-productive acres currently enrolled in the Green Acres program. ❑ I DO NOT wish to make ANY changes to my enrolled acres. I choose for BOTH my productive and non- productive acres to remain in the program after January 2, 2009. I understand that if at any time after January 2, 2009, ANY of my Green Acres property is withdrawn from the program, or is sold, transferred, or subdivided, I will have to pay back the deferred taxes on ALL of my non-productive acres equal to the average deferred taxes for the current year and two previous years times SEVEN (not to exceed the actual number of years enrolled in Green Acres). Productive acres will be subject to a three year payback both before and after January 2, 2009. ❑ I intend to withdraw ALL of my enrolled acres, including BOTH productive and non-productive acres (please list parcel numbers above), before January 2, 2009. I understand that I will be responsible to pay an amount equal to the average of the deferred taxes for 2008, 2007, and 2006 times THREE (not to exceed the actual number of years enrolled in Green Acres). ❑ I intend to withdraw SOME of my non-productive acres (please list parcel numbers above) from the Green Acres program before January 2, 2009. I choose to keep my productive acres in the program. I understand that for the withdrawn acres, I will be responsible to pay the average of the deferred taxes for 2008, 2007, and 2006 times THREE (not to exceed the actual number of years enrolled in Green Acres). ❑ I intend to withdraw ALL of my non-productive acres (please list parcel numbers above) from the Green Acres program before January 2, 2009. I choose to keep my productive acres in the program. I understand that for the non-productive acres I am withdrawing, I will be responsible to pay the average of the deferred taxes for 2008, 2007, and 2006 times three (not to exceed the actual number of years enrolled in Green Acres). By signing below, I certify that I understand the new requirements for the Green Acres program. I also certify that I am the owner of the property or an authorized shareholder, member or partner of the entity that owns the property listed above. I understand that if I decide to formally withdraw my property, based on my intentions listed above, I may be subject to a payback of deferred taxes and special assessments. NAME (Please print) YTIME PHONE: SIGNATURE: DATE: Page 42