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Home My WebLink AboutCouncil Information Memorandum 10-10-2008CITY OF PLYMOUTH 99 ® COUNCIL INFO MEMO October 10, 2008 UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS Plymouth Library Groundbreaking 10/13/08.......................................................................................Page 1 Planning Commission Agenda 10/15/08.............................................................................................. Page 2 October, November, December 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 ... Segment of Highway 55 in Plymouth Slated to be Closed October 17-20, News Release .................. Page 7 The Financial Crisis and City Hall, Article, Cities Bulletin................................................................. Page 9 Highway 169 Frontage Road in Plymouth Will Close to Traffic Oct. 16-22, News Release ............. Page 10 A 3.9 Percent Levy Limit? Well, Not Really, Article, Star & Trib..................................................... Page 11 Route 773 Returns to Regular Route on Oct. 13, Rider Alert............................................................Page 13 Residential Burglary Arrests, Cast #08023499, News Release...........................................................Page 14 City of Plymouth #1, Article, League of MN Cities Magazine...........................................................Page 15 MEETING MINUTES Highway 55 Corridor Coalition Minutes 08/15/08............................................................................ Page 16 U.S. Highway 169 Corridor Coalition Minutes 09/17/08...................................................................Page 20 STAFF REPORTS CORRESPONDENCE Letter from Interfaith Outreach, RE: Plymouth Transit Issues.......................................................... Page 21 Letter from City of New Hope, RE: New Hope Ice Arena................................................................. Page 22 Memo from Public Works, RE: Fall Street Sweep............................................................................. Page 27 Letter from City of St. Paul, RE: Assistance with 2008 Republican National Convention ................ Page 28 Letter to Land Owner, RE: WestHealth, Inc. 2008097 Planned Development ................................... Page 29 Letter from West Mason, RE: West Medicine Lake Park Pavilion ..................................................... Page 30 Page 1 PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 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. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. PUBLIC FORUM 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 5. CONSENT AGENDA* A. Approve the October 1, 2008 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes. 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Schuett Real Estate Group. Rezoning from B -C (Business Campus) to 0 (Office) and site plan amendment for three small additions. The proposal would allow the two existing town -office buildings located southeast of Old Rockford Road and 45th Avenue to be converted to a senior memory care facility with 45 rooms. (2008077) B. JGM Properties, Inc. Site plan amendments, interim use permit and variances to allow a parking expansion on two properties located at 9909 South Shore Drive and 1605 State Highway 169 North. (2008084) C. City of Plymouth. Proposed 2009-2013 Capital Improvements Program (CIP). (2008093) D. City of Plymouth. Zoning ordinance text amendment that would allow outside storage of inoperable vehicles awaiting repair in the C-3 (Highway Commercial), C-4 (Community Commercial), C-5 (Commercial Industrial), I-1 (Light Industrial), 1-2 (General Industrial), and 1-3 (Heavy Industrial) zoning districts. (2008098) 7. NEW BUSINESS 8. ADJOURNMENT Page 2 City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life October 2008 Modified on 10/10/08 Page 3 1 7:00 PM 2 3 �_ 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 9 l0 11 6:30-8:30 PM ENVIRONMENTAL 7:00 PM Volunteer QUALITY PARK & 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 III Council Chambers YOM KIPPUR BeqinsatSunset _ 12 13 jj� 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 Ctodcs Back I Council Chambers Ply mouth Creek Hour Modified on 10/10/08 Page 3 rp) City of Plymouth Addinq Quality to Life November 2008 Modified on 1011=6 Page 4 1�8:00AM- - 3:00 PM Absentee Voting 2 3m_8:00AM- 4M�7:OOAM• 5 6 7 8 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 & 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 24 25 267:00 27 28 29 7:00 PM PM REGULAR COUNCIL PLYMOUTH MEETING ADVISORY Council Chambers COMMITTEE ON THANKSGIVING THANKSGIVING /30 TRANSIT (PACT) HOLIDAY HOLIDAY MEETING Medicine Lake CITY OFFICES CITY OFFICES Room A CLOSED CLOSED Modified on 1011=6 Page 4 City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life December 2008 Modified on 10/ 10/08 Page 5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7:00 PM 7:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL PLANNING MEETING COMMISSION Council Chambers MEETING Truth in Taxation Council Chambers Hearing 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 2:00-5:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Old Fashioned Christ- REGULAR COUNCIL ENVIRONMENTAL PARK & REC mos MEETING QUALITY ADVISORY COM - Plymouth Historical Society Building Council Chambers COMMITTEE MISSION (PRAC) (EQC) MEETING MEETING Medicine Lake Room Council Chambers 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 7:00 PM 7:00 PM PLANNING HRA MEETING COMMISSION Medicine Lake Room MEETING Council Chambers 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY CITY OFFICES CITY OFFICES CHANUKAH CLOSED AT CLOSED Begins at Sunset NOON 28 29 30 31 6:00-9:00 PM New Years Eve Event Plymouth Ice Center Modified on 10/ 10/08 Page 5 Tentative Schedule for City Council Agenda Items October 28, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers • Special Assessment Hearing for 2008 Street Reconstruction Project, City Project #8101 • Special Assessment Hearing for 2008 Mill and Overlay Project, City Project #8109 • Adopt 2009-2013 Capital Improvement Program • AnnOUneement 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 City of Plymouth News Release For Immediate Release October 8, 2008 Contact: Bob Moberg, 763-509-5525 Segment of Highway 55 in Plymouth Slated to be Closed October 17 - 20 Highway 55 in Plymouth from West Medicine Lake Drive to South Shore Drive will be closed from 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 17 through 5 a.m. on Mon., Oct. 20. Weather permitting, crews will work 24 hours a day during that time to replace an existing culvert under the highway. A detour route using 1-494,1-394 and Highway 169 will be posted. The north frontage road between West Medicine Lake Drive and South Shore Drive will remain open to local traffic during the highway closure. The culvert replacement is part of a City of Plymouth project that will improve drainage in the area. Page 7 The financial crisis and city hall Page 1 of 2 Ll I NESOT.4 CITIES BULLETIN 1. rr1ES ONLINE EDITION The financial crisis and city hall Issue 27 By Jim Miller Published: October 8, 2008 As the financial crisis in our economy widens, cities across the state and nation are feeling the impacts. Not surprisingly, uncertainty has accompanied the situation. With credit markets tightening, for example, many cities have found it difficult, if not impossible, to sell bonds. This has been especially true for cities intending to place large issues, those above $15 million. That is because large institutional buyers such as Lehman Brothers have been the traditional market for large issues; many of those firms either no longer exist or are unable or unwilling to purchase bonds, at least for the time being. Cities hoping to sell smaller bond issues face a somewhat different problem. Financial advisors to cities indicate that only those smaller issues that have an attractive rating are being sold. Unrated or lower quality bonds are not faring well. Many smaller cities, of course, don't sell bonds, but borrow directly from local banks. Unfortunately, it appears that many smaller banks are also having liquidity problems, which may make this option less viable for some cities. Cities are also concerned about their investments. While high grade commercial paper has always been seen as a safe investment, cities may want to limit exposure in that area. Being as liquid as possible in the short term, given the state of the economy and the state's potentially growing deficit, makes sense. This may be an ideal time for the city to ask its financial advisor to review its portfolio to ensure current investments are appropriate for this market. Also, even though the FDIC insurance limits have recently been increased, it is well to remember that liquidity is as important as security. Having all of the city's funds in one bank, even if insured, could create cash flow problems for the city if the bank fails. It would likely be some time before the FDIC made good on the loss, and in the meantime, the city would be without its money. Cities should also be aware that banks, just like bond issues, are rated; your financial advisor may be able to help you assess the likelihood of potential problems before they occur. Now would also be a very good time to review the investment portfolio of the fire relief association. Because relief associations have wider discretion in types of permissible investments, they may also be at greater risk. For those cities with defined benefit retirement plans for firefighters, the city must make up deficiencies if state aid payments and fund earnings are inadequate to make pension payments. Cities should not panic, but they should also not rest on assumptions made years ago. Reviewing the city's current financial situation, possibly deferring new debt until markets stabilize, and talking with business leaders in the city are all sound strategies for minimizing surprises and providing maximum flexibility if they do occur. For more information, contact Jim Miller, LMC, atjmillerClmc.org or (651) 281-1205. http://web.Imc.org/bulletin/story.cfm?id=2108&title_id=1 10/8/', Page 9 City of Plymouth News Release For Immediate Release October 9, 2008 Contact: Bob Moberg, 763-509-5525 Highway 169 Frontage Road in Plymouth Will Close to Traffic Oct. 16 - 22 A three block section of the Highway 169 frontage road in southeast Plymouth will be closed for a week later this month so that a railroad crossing can be replaced to make a smoother ride for motorists. The west frontage road of Highway 169 at the Union Pacific Railroad crossing located between 13th Ave. N. and 10th Ave. N. in Plymouth will be closed to through traffic beginning at 8 a.m. on Thurs., Oct. 16 and will tentatively remain closed until 3 p.m. on Wed., Oct. 22. The railroad crossing replacement is a project of the Union Pacific Railroad Company. Page 10 A 3.9 percent levy limit? Well, not really StarTribune.com MINNEAPOLIS -ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA A 3.9 percent levy limit? Well, not really By ]ENNA ROSS, Star Tribune October 5, 2008 As the governor and legislators negotiated a cap on property taxes last session, most of the focus was dedicated to a number -- 3.9 percent. Cities have set their preliminary tax levies for 2009. But there are few 3.9 percent increases to be found. Instead, Plymouth passed a 6.1 percent increase from 2008, Medina went with 12.4 percent more, Minneapolis approved a 6.9 percent rise, Woodbury voted for 6.8 percent more. Under the new legislation few cities are actually limited to the 3.9 percent adjustment for inflation. In a way, that's the starting number. Page 1 of 3 There are then formulas for new construction and additional households. Next, cities can add for special levies, which include police and fire wages and benefits, bonding and foreclosure costs. In the end, there are more than 20 exceptions -- some call them loopholes -- to the limit. "It makes a city's decisions difficult, because the number that sticks in the public's mind is 3.9 percent," said Medina Mayor Tom Crosby. Or, as Medina's finance director puts it, "3.9 percent is the number everybody knows," said Jeanne Day. "They don't know about all this other stuff." Despite the exceptions, the levy limits are putting a real strain on budgets, cities said, especially as energy costs rise and revenue from building permits falls. "Levy limit means lean times for 2009-2011 city of New Hope budgets," a New Hope newsletter announced, pointing out that public works fuel costs alone are expected to increase by $90,000 in 2009. With those tensions, some agencies are concerned that cities will begin shifting costs into the "special levies" category -- which in the end could cost taxpayers more. "Unfortunately, levy limits can create some perverse incentives," said Gary Carlson, intergovernmental relations director for the League of Minnesota Cities, which fought the levy limits last session. "Without levy limits, you may choose to use your reserves to purchase a Page 11 http://www.startribune.com/templates/Print This_Story?sid=30494934 10iw/uva A 3.9 percent levy limit? Well, not really Page 2 of 3 firetruck, whereas now," because bonding is considered a special levy outside the limit, "you're almost certain to borrow money to do that," he said. In its lengthy budget literature, Plymouth staff members asked the City Council whether the city might consider bonding for things like street reconstruction. "Levy limits over the next few years will make budgeting through the general fund at higher levels much more difficult," the report said. "Staff would like feedback as to the pacing of projects and tolerance for bonding for improvements." Woodbury's tax base has risen at a rate slower than in past years, and its building permit revenues have dropped. Levy limits have worsened an already tight financial situation, according to council meeting minutes. The staff will return to the council this month with a budget that includes a reduction of the equivalent of 8.2 full-time employees. But the city is also planning to add staff -- among them, three police officers and an investigation sergeant, paid for with about $320,000 in a special levy. "While staff is not pleased with the levy limits, they are glad that this provision has been added," the minutes say, "particularly for a city like Woodbury that has had to grow its public safety department to keep up with ... demands." In part because of the exceptions for special levies -- some of which were added with the legislation -- levy limits are "a blunt instrument" that end up being "quite ineffective," said Phil Krinkie, president of the Taxpayers League of Minnesota. "Either the limit is too restrictive that it punishes certain communities or cities that are actually being responsible, or there are so many exceptions that it's almost meaningless," he said. Several cities interviewed said the levy limits did not influence how they set their preliminary levies, which serve as a cap for the final levies they'll approve in the coming months. Hopkins could have levied up to about 7 percent by law but instead capped its levy at that magic number -- 3.9 percent, said City Manager Rick Getschow. But it did so not because of the Legislature's "artificial limit," he said. "Frankly, for the last four years, we've stayed within this 3.5 to 4.5 percent range," he said. "We felt that was a target we wanted to shoot for regardless." Jenna Ross • 612-673-7168 Page 12 http://www.startribune.com/templates/Print This_Story?sid=30494934 lulDILVUO A transit system operated by the City of Plymouth Location Plymouth City Hall 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447-1482 Web Site www.ci.plymouth.mn.us click on "Services" then "Transit" Customer Service Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Voice: 763-509-5535 TDD: 763-509-5065 Fax: 763-509-5510 transit@ci.plymouth.mn.us riae),ALERrl Route 773 Returns to Regular Route on Oct. 13 The temporary detour that Route 773 has been following during the summer due to road construction will end this week. Route 773 will return to its regular route starting Mon., Oct. 13. We apologize for any inconvenience this detour has caused. If you have any questions, please email Plymouth Metrolink at transit@ci.plymouth.mn.us or call 763-509-5535. The TDD line is 763-509-5065. Route 773 (shown in light gray) — Effective Oct. 13 Printed October 3, 2008 Page 13 City of Plymouth News Release For Immediate Release Contact: October 7, 2008 Sgt. Joe Gebhardt 763-509-5136 Residential Burglary Arrests — Case # 08023499 After a number of recent daytime residential burglaries, Plymouth Police had distributed information through its neighborhood watch groups to be on the lookout for suspicious individuals, possibly on foot or on bicycles. On Monday, October 6`h, at approximately 1:30 p.m., a concerned citizen called police to report two suspicious males, one black and one white, on bicycles in the area of 44`h Ave & Fernbrook Lane, carrying duffel bags. A short time later, an officer noticed a black male on a bike with a duffel bag in the 3000 block of Fernbrook. When the officer made contact, the male dropped the bike and bag, and fled on foot. After a foot pursuit, the male was ultimately taken into custody. The male turned out to be a suspect Plymouth Police were already looking for as having pawned jewelry from previous Plymouth burglaries. Information also led police to a white male at a nearby hotel. He also fled on foot and was apprehended shortly thereafter. Items from recent burglaries were also located in his hotel room. Investigation on the cases continues. Both males were booked at Hennepin County Jail for probable cause 2nd degree Burglary with charges pending. The two are: Dwayne Lee Nabors, Age:38 of Crystal, MN and Kevin James McKenzie, Age:35 of New Hope, MN. Page 14 Lia9J2 1-4, j✓',nntSei-a CwtS XS_- Z;t-.t - Sf p�- x-1'8 CITI' f W� Awards The City of Plymouth has - been selected by Money maga- zine as the nation's No. 1 -ran ked city in the magazine's annual "100 Best Places to Live" list. Other Minnesota cities included on the list are Eagan (No. 17), Apple Valley (No. 24), Lakeville (No. 26), Eden Prairie (No. 40), Maple Grove (No. 41), Burnsville (No. 43), Rochester (No. 70), and Blaine (No. 93). Money magazine based its rankings on several factors, including financial data, housing, education, leisure and culture, weather, health, and crime rates. This year, the magazine considered only the 716 U.S. cities with populations in the 50,000 to 300,000 range. In choosing Plymouth as No. 1, the magazine cited the city's quality schools, abundant job oppor- tunities, affordable housing, low crime rate, and active outdoor culture. The City of Dawson was named the Rivet' Friendly Community of theYear by Minnesota Waters. The award, sponsored by Wenck Asso- ciates, honors a community that recog- nizes rivers for their beauty, economic, historic, cultural, and ecological value and that is taking creative and progressive steps to restore and preserve their river. Following the 1997 flood, Dawson worked with state and federal agencies to enhance the usability and health of the Lac qui Parle River.The city hosts an annual community celebration of the river, called River Fest. CURE (Clean Up the River Environment). which worked with Dawson on this effort, nominated the city for this award. Several Savage police officers and firefighters, along with Allina paramedics, received Morris Miller Outstanding Service Awards for saving the life of a ratan who went into cardiac arrest.The awards were presented on behalf of the Scott County Emer- gency Medical Services Advisory Council on Aug. 12. Those recognized were officers George Luskey, Andrew Reed, and Patrick Miller; firefighters Bruce Von Bank, Tim Burns, Mike Suel, John Richards, Bryan Peterson, and Dane Lund; and paramedics Pam Jagow, Tom Powers,James Bonin, and Cara Urabe.The group is credited with working more than 45 minutes to restore the victim's breathing and pulse before he was transported to the hospital for emergency surgery. The new St. Cloud Police Headquarters has received the designation "Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR" for the new 100,000 -square -foot, three-story facility. The recognition of"Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR" is the U.S. Envi- romnental Protection Agency's (EPA) designation for building designs with superior energy design intent. Designed by St. Cloud's GLTArchitects, with associate architect BKV Group of Minneapolis, this facility earned a rating of 83 on EPA's i -iilil energy performance rating system. Staff News Dave Kennedy. former League of Minnesota Cities (LMC) staff counsel and Crystal city attorney, has retired from the practice of law after an illustrious 48 -year career. Kennedy earned his undergraduate degree in English literature from Notre Dame in 1953 and his law degree in 1960 from the University of Minnesota. He was staff counsel for the League fi-on 1960 to 1967, director of the Minne- sota Office of Local and Urban Affairs from 1967 to 1969, and assistant Senate counsel from 1969 to 1972. Kennedy practiced with LeFevere. Lefler, Kennedy, O'Brien & Drawz from 1972 to 1989, and with Kennedy & Graven from 1989 to 2008. He was the city attorney for Crystal from 1974 to 1998, and for Sandstone from 1993 to 2006. In addition to his sharp wit and patience, Kennedy is well known for being a friend and mentor to many local officials and lawyers. In Memory Shoreview City Council - member Larry Morrisette passed away on April 4. Morrisette was elected to serve on the City Council in 2002 and then re-elected in 2006. He was passionate about the importance of conmiunity television. He worked for 17 years as the assistant generalmanagerof KTCA Twin Cities Public Television. Prior to his service on the City Council, Morri- sette was Shoreview's representative on the North Suburban Communications Commission and was a charter member and longtime chair of the city's Tele- communications and Technology Conrnuuee. He also served as co -host of the cable show, "Tale of Ten Cities" and co-anchor of CTV-15's local election night coverage. "The city is a far better place because of his efforts," said Shoreview Mayor Sand)' Martin. "We will greatly miss the positive out- look, belief in our residents, and strong sense of community that he brought to the City Council." Send us your City News Opp E-mail information to Claudia Hoffacker at choffacker@Imc.org or fax to (651) 215-4142. Page 15 Srra r. niu[ li 21111\ M itine.n � n Ci Mics HIGHWAY 55 www.highway55.org CORRIDOR COALITION Preserving the 55 Corridor front 1-494 to Annandale, Minnesota Highway 55 Corridor Coalition Full Membership Committee Meeting Meeting Minutes Friday, August 15, 2008 9:30 a.m. —11:30 a.m. Hennepin County Transportation Facility Medina, MN Training Room 1. Call to Order— A quorum being present, Marvin Johnson called the meeting to order at 9:37 a.m. 2. Introductions —Marvin Johnson, City of Independence; Wayne Fingalson, Wright County; Jack Russek, Wright County; Marthand Nookala, Hennepin County; Paul Johnson, City of Buffalo; Ed Idzorek, MnDOT Metro; Claudia Dumont, MuDOT D3; Elizabeth Weir, City of Medina; Fred Ryan, Ryan Commercial Properties; Brent Morningstar, Wright Hennepin Electric & Security; Laurie Karnes, Land for Sale, Inc; Herman Quass; Brad Larson, SRF Consulting Group, Inc. Special Guests — Senator Amy Koch, Representative Sarah Anderson, Carl Kuhl from Senator Coleman's office, Deb Steiskal from Representative Michele Bachmann's office, David Dillon, Congressional District 3 candidate; Anna Richey, Tinklenberg for Congress. 3. Approve Meeting Minutes from June 27, 2008: The minutes were reviewed with Liz Weir offering to amend the minutes by adding at the end of Item 8 the following sentence "Laurie Karnes noted that the CP Railroad running adjacent to Hwy 55 could offer future transit opportunities in the same manner as North Star will". Motion by Liz Weir, second by Jack Russek to approve the June 27, 2008 meeting minutes as amended. Motion passed with all voting in favor. 4. Marketing Committee Report: • Highway 55 Brochure — Wayne Fingalson noted that copies of the new brochure are available if any one needs additional copies. • Website Update — Wayne Fingalson said that the Hwy 55 Coalition website has been recently updated. He then showed the group some of the major updates including a link to the Hwy 55 Coalition's new brochure, current status of projects, new graphics and population statistics. Brad Larson noted that the website is getting almost 300 hits a day. This clearly indicates that many people are interested in what is happening on Hwy 55 Contact Wayne A. Fingalson Phone: 763/682-7383 Wright Coaaty Highway Department FAX- 763/682-7313 1901 Highway 25 North E-mail. Warne. n a,¢ lson(& Buffalo, Minnesota 55313-3306 Page 16 �'/ HIGHWAY 55 www.highway55.org CORRIDOR COALITION Preserving the 55 Corridor front I-494 to Annandale, Minnesota 5. Financial Report: Wayne handed out the Financial Report as of August 7, 2008. He reported the current fund balance of $39,926.18. Jack Russek noted that the Coalition's financial records are part of the audit of Wright County's financial records and Wright County received an unqualified opinion (best opinion to be given) on the presentation of the financial data. Motion by Jack Russek, second by Paul Johnson to approve the Financial Report. Motion was approved. 6. Technical Advisory Committee/MnDOT Report: TH 55 Environmental Assessment Status: Claudia Dumont said that the EA from Rockford to Buffalo is a high priority in District 3 and they are starting work on the EA. She also noted that the Wright County Surveyor is working on the Official Map of future Hwy 55 in District 3. MnDOT has done some minor alignment changes which will require the Official Map to be amended in the future but at this time it will not affect the work that the Wright County Surveyor is completing. Ed Idzorek stated that MnDOT Metro has reviewed the draft EA from I494 to Rockford and has sent comments back to the consultant for final revisions to the draft before it is sent to MnDOT Central Office for their review and then to FHWA. The hope is to have a Finding Of No Significant Impact (FONSI) declared in January, 2009. This would then allow for right-of-way acquisition along Hwy 55 from Plymouth to Rockford. Federal Funding Eligibility Status: Brad Larson noted that the SAFETEA-LU Technical Corrections bill was signed by the President thereby making the Coalition's federal funds eligible for use on safety improvement construction projects such as Hwy 55 @ CR 134 and Hwy 55 @ CSAH 12. Coalition Projects Status and Funding Recommendations: --CR 134: Claudia Dumont said that the project is ready to go to construction now that the funding was made available through the passage of the SAFETEA-LU Technical Corrections bill. Contract letting is anticipated in August 18, 2008 --CSAH 12: Wayne Fingalson stated that the project is almost ready to go to construction now that the Technical Corrections bill was passed. Contract letting is anticipated in September, 2008. Brad noted that the TAC has solicited for future projects in preparation for showing needs on Hwy 55 that would justify requesting project authorizations in next year's Federal Transportation bill. The TAC has been notified that the City of Plymouth will be submitting two projects—Hwy 55 @ Peony Lane and Hwy 55 @ Niagara Lane. Wright County is also considering submitting two projects. Previous project submittals show over a $7 Million shortfall to just complete those. In addition, when the EA's are completed, it is anticipated that additional funding will be needed to acquire right-of-way along Hwy 55 when opportunities arise. Jack Russek noted that good planning and zoning practice has already saved development from occurring on right-of-way needed on Hwy 55 in the future through working with the developer on where buildings are situated on the property. Liz Weir asked if agencies needed to resubmit projects under this new project solicitation. Brad said that they did not. Contact Wayne A. Fingalson Phone: 7631682-7383 Wright County Highwav Department FAX-- 7631681-7313 1901 Highway 25 North E-mail. wacne. m¢alson(mo Buffalo, Minnesota 55313-3306 Page 17 lei/ HIGHWAY 55 www.highway55.org CORRIDOR COALITION Preserving the 55 Corridor from I-494 to Annandale, Minnesota 7. Legislative Updates. Federal Carl Kuhl, Senator Coleman's Constiuent Policy Liaison, said that the Senator would be glad to hear that the projects that are ready to go to construction were due to the Technical Corrections bill being passed. Senator Coleman also supported the $8 billon return of funds to the Highway Trust Fund but it was not passed by the full Senate. Carl noted that the Senate has marked up the FY09 Transportation Appropriations bill but he does not believe that any appropriation bills will be passed this year. With the upcoming elections, it is believed that Congress will pass Continuing Resolutions for appropriations to stay at the FY08 levels until next year. They may consider new appropriations next February when the new Congress goes into session or possibly wait until next fall. Carl reported that with the Transportation Authorization bill coming up next year, the Minnesota Transportation Alliance has a committee working on what Minnesota would like to see in the bill as far as policies. There is a concern with future funding of the Highway Trust Fund if it continues to be only funded through gas tax revenue. Gas tax revenue is down because of the cut-back in driving with the higher price of gas. Deb Steiskal, Representative Michele Bachmann's Constituent Services Officer, provided a handout noting the Congresswoman's support for two bills to help shore up our nation's transportation infrastructure. The first bill would authorize $1 billion to replace or rehabilitate structurally deficient bridges. The second bill would cover the projected shortfall in the Highway Trust Fund by transferring $8 billion from the general fund. This would "repay" the Highway Trust Fund for previous transfers to the general fund by Congress over the years. Deb further noted that Representative Bachmann would not seek earmarks this year. One of the reasons for this position is that congressional committee members get the bulk of the earmarked funds and Minnesota is not getting its fair share. She wants more transparency in the process. David Dillon, candidate for Congressional District 3 said he was impressed with the Coalition and how the projects are moving forward. He noted that he is not in favor of federal earmarks for projects Anna Richey, Elwyn Tinklenberg's Campaign Manager for the Congressional 6`h District seat, said that Mr. Tinklenberg would be willing to work with the Coalition on Hwy 55. Wayne Fingalson stated in response to earmarked projects that the Coalition and its projects are earmarks. Without the earmarks the Coalition would not have been able to fund the projects discussed today. Next year's Transportation Authorization bill is of major importance as the Hwy 55 Coalition will be competing against other groups in Minnesota for funding. The Coalition should seriously consider attending the Minnesota Fly -In next year along with other efforts to promote the importance of the Hwy 55 projects. Marvin Johnson said this should be looked into at the October meeting. State • Senator Amy Koch said that with the Transportation funding bill that was passed by the legislature this year and the new MnDOT commissioner, she is waiting to see what MnDOT will be funding knowing that the main emphasis will be on bridges. She noted that next session there could be a projected deficit of S 1-2 billion that the legislature will have to deal with. Senator Koch said she has really seen the progress the Coalition has made over the past few years and is very appreciative of the work. Contact: Wayne A. Fingalson Phone: 763/682-7383 Wright County Highway Deparnnent FAX: 763/682-7313 1901 Highway 25 North E-mail: wavne.Rnralsanimcom Page 18 Buffalo, Minnesota 55313-3306 HIGHWAY 55 www.highway55.org CORRIDOR COALITION Preserving the 55 Corridor from 1-494 to Annandale, Minnesota Representative Sarah Anderson stated that Hwy 55 is the major corridor in her district. Any improvements are appreciated. Marvin Johnson asked Marthand Nookala about the new sales tax that 5 metro counties have agreed to. Marthand said that the new tax is anticipated to raise $100 million annually in the 5 counties with all the funding only going toward transit. The first $30 million goes to the Metropolitan Council for transit per the legislation. The funding can not be used on studies for light rail corridors. Laurie Karnes asked why is light rail being studied on the SW corridor when bus transit is doing so well. Marthand said that light rail is the preferred mode of choice after the completion of the Alternative Analysis. 8. Communications: There was no communications to the Coalition since its last meeting. 9. Establish next full membership meeting date and time: The next meeting will be on Friday, October 17, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. at the Hennepin County Public Works facility, Training Room in Medina. 10. Other Business: There was no other business to come before the Coalition 11. Adjourn: On a motion by Liz Weir, second by Wayne Fingalson the meeting was adjourned at 10:38 a.m. Respectfully submitted: Brad Larson, SRF Consulting Group, Inc. Contact: Wayne A. Fingalson Phone: 763/682-7383 Wright County Highway Department FAX: 763/682-7313 1901 Higlnvay 25 North E-mail. nvavnefin a¢ lsouPage 19 Buffalo, Minnesota 55313-3306 U.S. HIGHWAY 169 CORRIDOR COALITION POLICY COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 17, 2008 The meeting of the U.S. Highway 169 Corridor Coalition Policy Committee was called to order at 7:00 p.m. at the Scott County Government Center, 200 Fourth Avenue West, Shakopee, Minnesota, Room GC 112, by Mayor Ron Jabs, City of Jordan and Acting Chair. Welcome and Introductions: Each member introduced themselves and their affiliations: Mayor Ron Jabs, City of Jordan and Acting Chair of the Policy Committee; Councihnember Ginny Black, Plymouth; Commissioner Jon Ulrich, Scott County; Commissioner Tom McLaughlin, Blue Earth County; Pat Hentges, City Manager, Mankato; Mayor Jim Hovland, Edina; Lezlie Vermillion, Director of Public Works, Scott County; Lisa Freese, Transportation Manager, Scott County; Richard Almich, City Administrator, LeSueur; and Ed Shukle, City Administrator, Jordan. Approve Agenda: Motion by Hovland, seconded by McLaughlin, to approve the agenda for September 17, 2008. Motion approved unanimously. Mission Statement: After considerable discussion, it was moved by Hentges, seconded by Almich, to approve the following mission statement: Working together to enhance safety, reduce congestion and maximize economic development along the U.S. Highway 169 inter -regional corridor. Motion approved unanimously. Joint Powers Agreement: Lezlie Vermillion distributed a draft Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) for discussion. The draft JPA was prepared by the Scott County Attorney's office. In the interest of time, it was suggested that each member review the draft and prepare redlined comments to be e-mailed back to Lezlie Vermillion within the next 2 weeks. Further discussion was held on membership, fees, budget and associate/affiliate organizations memberships. This discussion will continue at subsequent policy committee meetings. Discussion on Lobbying — Federal and State: It was noted that interviews of potential lobbying firms will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2008, the date of the next Policy Committee meeting. The meeting will take place in Room 221 of the Scott County Government Center. Firms to be interviewed will be Cassidy and Associates; and Lockridge Grindal and Nauen. The committee discussed possible interview topics and suggested that the Technical Committee develop the actual questions for the interviews. The Technical Committee will distribute those suggested questions to the Policy Committee for review and comment prior to the interviews. Other issues: There were no other issues to be discussed. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Ed Shukle, City Administrator, Jordan Page 20 Memo Date: September 23, 2008 To: Plymouth City Council From: LaDonna Hoy, Executive Director Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners Re: Plymouth Transit Issues We and our community partners — namely health and mental health providers, community education programs, employers, senior service providers, social service providers, schools, have become intimately familiar with transportation barriers of growing numbers of Plymouth residents. Dial -A -Ride and Metrolink, while far from being ideal in terms of flexibility, access and cost effectiveness, have nonetheless provided a critical option for Plymouth workers, and for students, seniors, adult learners, and people in need of health and mental health services. While cuts in service hours and increase in fares might arguably be the most fiscally responsible way to address current program costs, I'm sure you can agree that limited and limiting transportation options for Plymouth residents begs both viable short - and long-term solutions. The City of Plymouth has played a crucial role in addressing the need for affordable housing, and in the delivery of many and invaluable services and outreach to community residents. By working across sectors and collaboratively, the city in partnership with community institutions and agencies has been able to accomplish things we might never have as individual institutions or agencies. Transportation options are key to the health and well-being of our community. In response to this critical community need — namely viable public/private transportation options for Plymouth residents, Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners proposes the formation of a cross -sector Transportation Task Force to pursue short- and long-term solutions. We further propose that the City of Plymouth take a lead role in convening community partners toward that end. We are eager to work with you and other community partners in this effort. Please count us in and count on us to bring to bear all the resources, ideas, partners, we can muster. Thank you. Page 21 September 8, 2008 Ms. Kelli Slavik, Mayor City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mayor Slavik and Ms. Ahrens: Ms. Laurie Ahrens, City Manager City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 Major capital improvements are on the horizon at the New Hope Ice Arena and the New Hope City Council is uncertain where funding for the improvements will come from. In June, the City Council authorized the creation of a New Hope Ice Arena Endowment Fund to encourage arena users, stakeholders, area residents and businesses, and our neighboring cities within the School District to play an active role in helping to meet the facility's needs. The New Hope Ice Arena, located at 4949 Louisiana Ave. N., was constructed in 1975. A second sheet of ice was added in 1996. The outdated cooling system for the original north ice sheet is nearing the end of its life cycle, and the city of New Hope does not have the estimated $1.5 million funding in place to replace the aging ice refrigeration and dehumidification systems. In addition, remodeling of the arena's community room, replacement of the roof and other projects also need to be addressed in the near future. The New Hope Ice Arena is a regional asset that serves hockey players from New Hope, as well as your cities of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Crystal, Golden Valley, Plymouth and Robbinsdale. It has been home ice for Cooper and Armstrong boys and girls' hockey teams since 1975. The arena has been home to local youth hockey associations for many years, and continues to work closely with the Armstrong Cooper Youth Hocke j,. The facility also serves local figure skaters. The New Hope Figure Skating School provides figure skating instruction to skaters ages three to adult. And, the community room at the arena hosts many recreation programs — including New Hope's very popular dance program as well as many community groups. Of course, these programs serve families from many other cities besides New Hope. The New Hope Ice Arena was built with general obligation bonds, which were paid for by New Hope taxpayers for the good of the greater community. While the city of New Hope has been responsible for all the operating and maintenance costs, some of these costs have been held down through rentals to users such as Youth Hockey and ISD 281. CITY OF NEW HOPE 4401 Xylon Avenue North • New Hope, Minnesota 55428-4898 • www. ci.new-hope.mn.us City Hall: 763-531-5100 • Police (non -emergency): 763-531-5170 • Public Works: 763-592-6777 • TDD: 763 -5? - City Hall Fax: 763-531-5136 • Police Fax: 763-531-5174 • Public Works Fax: 763-592-6776 Page 22 Page 2 The facility serves the needs of many people beyond New Hope's borders. The New Hope Ice Arena Endowment Fund was established to assist with maintenance needs and improvements to the facility. As stated above, the most urgent need is funding to replace the original sheet of ice. That is where the first $1.5 million will be spent. The Endowment Fund presents an opportunity for everyone who sees the extraordinary benefits the New Hope Ice Arena provides to help "Keep It Cool." All contributions are welcome. The city of New Hope will match 25 percent of all funds received. The goal of the endowment fund is to raise $2.5 million for capital improvement needs at the arena. This request for assistance is being made due to a substantial loss in LGA to the city over the past several years and due to the current economic downturn. The response from the greater community will be a gauge as to the level of community support for maintaining the ice arena and continuing the operation into the future. For more information about the New Hope Ice Arena Endowment Fund, contact city manager Kirk McDonald at 763-531-5112 (kmcdonald@ci.new-hope.mn.us) or parks and recreation director Shari French at 763-531-5152 (sfrench@ci.new-hope.mn.us). Thank you in advance for considering helping the city of New Hope in this time of need. Sincerely, p� Mayor Martin Opem, Sr. Cc New Hope City Councilmembers Kirk McDonald, City Manager Page 23 Fund Raising Plan for New Hope Ice Arena Endowment Fund "Keep it Cool" The New Hope Ice Arena, located at 4949 Louisiana Avenue North in New Hope, Minnesota, was first opened in the fall of 1975. Local hockey enthusiasts worked for a number of years to convince the community of the need for this facility. In July of 1974 the city of New Hope voters approved a referendum to build the arena with General Obligation bonds. The facility is a regional asset which has predominately served youth from the seven cities within the Robbinsdale Area School District 281 boundaries, including Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Crystal, Golden Valley, Plymouth, Robbinsdale, and New Hope. The city of New Hope has paid the bulk of the cost to run the facility for over 30 years. A second sheet of ice was added in 1996 using a Mighty Ducks grant and TIF funding. This second sheet was added to support the increase in ice time needed due to the addition of girls' hockey at the youth and high school levels. The New Hope Ice Arena has been "home" to 281 high school hockey teams since it opened. It has also been "home" to the local youth hockey associations since 1975 including Cooper Youth Hockey and Armstrong Youth Hockey. The Endowment Fund's goal is to raise $2.5 million. Its purpose is to raise funds to pay for expected capital replacement needs at the New Hope Ice Arena. A community wide effort is needed as this facility serves residents of several cities. The most immediate capital need is expected to be the replacement of the north ice sheet at an estimated cost of $1.5 million. The original ice sheet (north side) dates back to 1975 and utilizes a Holmsten Direct System with a sand floor and ten miles of steel tubing. The system has a life expectancy of 30 years and therefore is on borrowed time. The city's goal is to replace the north ice sheet with an indirect system which is more energy efficient. The replacement date for the north ice sheet at this point is expected to be 2012 but the need could occur earlier. Other funds are needed for remodeling of the Community Room, replacement of the roof, replacement of the dehumidification systems, etc. Page 24 Staff would like to establish a theme or by-line for the plan and suggests "Keep it Cool" A number of ideas were brainstormed but that one was chosen. Of course, staff is open to other suggestions. Other cities, including Eden Prairie and Maple Grove, have recently developed programs similar to an endowment fund. Their programs are staff supported but community driven. The leads have been taken by either their Mayor or by representatives of their hockey associations. In the case of these two communities, the fund raising efforts and selling of name rights have been successful. The Endowment Fund was established by the New Hope City Council in February of 2008. The city of New Hope will match up to 25 percent of all funds received. The target audience to be approached for contributions includes: o Robbinsdale Area Schools, District 281 o Armstrong/Cooper Youth Hockey Association o Community residents o Cities within 281 boundaries o Local and regional corporatelbusiness leaders o USA Hockey o Minnesota Wild The Endowment Fund campaign approach will be through mailings, group and individual presentations, web messages, press releases, seeking partnerships within the community, and other various promotional pieces. It is expected that donations will come in many different forms and many different levels. Staff is recommending the following increments be considered: 1) Platinum Level (one opportunity) a) $250,000 or over b) Naming rights for the entire Ice Arena facility for ten years with company logo on a new signboard on 49'h Avenue as well as on the building sign c) Name on plaque in lobby 2) Gold Level (two opportunities) a) $100,000 to $249,999 b) Naming rights for one of the two sheets of ice for five years c) Company emblem embedded in the named ice sheet d) Name on plaque in lobby Page 25 3) Silver Level (two opportunities) a) Over $50,000 to $99,999 b) "Dressing' Zamboni in company logo for five years (such as a pop can, ambulance, garbage truck, etc.) C) Name on plaque in lobby 3) Bronze Level (one opportunity) a) Over $25,000 to $49,999 b) Naming rights for the Community Room for five years c) Name on plaque in lobby 4) Sponsor Level (many opportunities) a) Over $10,000 to $24,999 b) Name on dasher board for five years c) Name on plaque in lobby 5) Friends of the Ice Arena (many opportunities) a) $1,000 to $9,999 b) Name on plaque in arena lobby These donations could come in the form of one time donations or in multi-year commitments. They could come in the form of money or product valued at the levels listed above. Page 26 lu1D)1' CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 DATE: October 3. 2007 TO: Laurie Ahrens, City Manager FROM: rJJtS h Cote, P.E., Director of Public Works SUBJECT: FALL STREET SWEEP Again this year, the Street Maintenance Division will conduct an annual fall street sweeping program to supplement the annual street sweeping provided by contractors. Our program will utilize a crew of three employees, one to drive the sweeper and two to haul debris. We will focus our efforts only on the highlighted roadways shown on the attached map. These roadways were chosen because they cant' higher volumes of traffic, for the most part do not have developed property fronting on the roadway, have curb, are heavily forested or are near sensitive bodies of water. These roadways amount to almost 20 miles or 40 lane -miles of sweeping, which should be accomplished in approximately one weeks time. We plan to do three sweeps, the first beginning on the this week, then again the first week of November and finishing on the second week of November. We will sweep regardless of weather conditions except for snow and debris cleared from the roadways will be dumped at the yard waste site. In between sweeps or after heavy rain we will also clear catch basins of leaves and debris. attachment cc: Gary Smith, Street Supervisor Chuck Autio, Street Lead Person Scott Newberger, Utilities Superintendent Page 27 0: Encinnnne GENERAL MEMOS [ RAN 2008 Ahrsn. f IIS,,x]S.e A CITY OF SAINT PAUL Christopher B. Coleman, Mayor September 26, 2008 Chief Michael Goldstein Plymouth Police Department 3400 Plymouth Blvd Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Chief Goldstein, DEPARTMENT OF POLICE John M. Harrington, Chief of Police 367 Grove Street Telephone: 651-291-1111 Saito Paid, Minnesota 55101 Facsimile: 651-266-5711 I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest appreciation and thanks for your department's assistance with the 2008 Republican National Convention. The multi -agency group of officers was an outstanding force, whether it was standing tall in the face of overwhelming provocation or acting with compassion for a lost soul caught in the midst of chaos. Some call it the Thin Blue Line, but during the four days of the RNC, I saw a strong steadfast sea of officers and military personnel who stepped up to this challenging event with courage and strength of character. We asked for your help and you came. It reminded me once again that law enforcement officers are a special group of people, always there when the need is the greatest. Our plan was to keep the peace. We were all challenged by the rioters and others to be less than the professionals we are— and they failed. They failed to stop the convention, and they failed to stop the delegates. From the officers and military personnel who guarded the venue, the street corners, the tunnels, the rooftops and the buses, to all of the civilian and sworn who helped support the line. The efforts that each of your officers made—their patience, their tolerance, their training and their endurance were all tested, and on each front they performed beautifully. I have always been proud to be a police officer, but during the week of the RNC, I was even more so. Thank you for helping us to make the 2008 RNC a safe and successful event. The challenge coin we have enclosed is but a small token of our appreciation and the esteem in which we hold you. We hope that it will be a reminder of the historic events that we took part in together. With your help we showed the world what professional peace officers could do. Thank you all! Sincerely, . Harrington dj�t�� CHF OF POLICE An A[(.m... ,,, Arno.. Equul Opprmnudq ErnpL,ar O Page 28 ity rp) Plymouth uthth Adding Quality to Life October 6, 2008 Dear Land Owner: The City has recently received an application from WestHealth, Inc., under File No. 2008097, requesting approval of a PUD (Planned Unit Development) amendment to allow changes to their signage plan relating to area identification and directional signs, for the property located at 2805 and 2855 Campus Drive. A map showing the location of the subject property is provided below. This letter is being mailed to all landowners within 750 feet of the site in order to provide notice and information about the application — in advance of the official notice that will be sent out prior to the Planning Commission's public hearing on the matter. The City will send out another letter notifying you of the Planning Commission public hearing date, not less than ten days prior to the hearing date. The purpose of the public hearing is to allow neighboring property owners to appear in front of the Planning Commission to ask questions and make comments relating to the application. You may also submit comments in writing. All written comments will become part of the public record. If you have any questions or comments concerning this application or the review procedures, please call Shawn Drill, Senior Planner, at (763) 509-5456. INFORMATION relating to this request may be examined at the Community Development Information Counter (lower level), on Mondays and Wednesday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except holidays. Sincerely, Barbara G. Senness, AICP Planning Manager notices/2008/2008097-first-notice.doc 3400 Plymouth Blvd • Plymouth, Minnesota 554-- • e -i. 763-509-5000 • www.ci.ptymouth.mn.us ®,! Page 29 ��CE VED Charlotte Ruth Mason OCT 0 8 2009 12020 27th Avenue N. _ Plymouth, MN 55441 Scott Nielson Other Members of Plymouth Planning Commission City Council Members West Medicine Lake Neighborhood Task Force October 5, 2008 Dear Plymouth Residents and friends, I am a writer, artist, parent and successful small business owner. My family and I moved to Plymouth nine years ago. My children were toddlers then and we spent most of our days at WEST MEDICINE LAKE PARK (WMLP). We made many friends there, met neighbors, visitors and other residents of Plymouth. We saw the signs for the FUTURE pavillion and felt excited about a park facility within walking distance. As the years have gone by and one of my sons has started middle school we have laughed about the sign. It has taken a long time. But the years have shown me that WMLP is already quite complete. WMLP is a small refuge on a big lake where, with the exception of French Regional Park, there is no available natural shoreline left. Neighbors, police officers, postal workers, teachers, local workers from grocery stores, banks, and light industry, visitors from all over the world can be found at WMLP enjoying a stroll, eating a homemade lunch, finding a moment of peace. What they are seeking is a quiet, natural place to clear their minds, stretch their bodies and reconnect with the natural world. The trees there are old, the lake view calming Page 30 and restorative, the grassy knoll inviting. Many people picnic and barbeque here, many generations of families have parties. I often see people in our community taking a 'time out' at WMLP. After a recent bomb threat at EAST MIDDLE SCHOOL, my son and I saw a worker from the school there sitting on a bench, just trying to find balance in a chaotic world. Before attending the public hearing last Wednesday I felt certain that 1 would object to the magnitude of the proposed new pavilliion. After seeing the plans I needed time to reflect. For years one of my dreams has been to help Plymouth build an art center much like the one in Minnetonka. I was impressed with many qualities of the proposed pavillion. So rather than voice my objections last Wednesday I decided to wait, visit the site again, and speak with residents. There is a need for a community center here in EAST Plymouth. Many people would benefit from a place for classes, community and coffee. A facility would help foster relationships and strengthen our community while providing R&R without the car. But there is no evidence or reason to tie this facility to the lakeshore. A building of this size and magnitude would negatively affect the lake. It would destroy the very precious attraction it seeks to feature. Three blocks away there is a site that would provide an excellent opportunity for redevelopment. The West Medicine Lake Community Club area off 18th Avenue provides an ideal location for the type of center being proposed. It surpasses the other location in flexiblity, diversity and possiblity. The large grassy area could remain a baseball field while still offering room for outdoor skating, outdoor concerts or dancing. Fewer trees would be lost, no wetlands would be destroyed, less would need restoration, fewer environmental aspects to consider, more land for parking and it is a beautiful site. This is a win/win Page 31 situation. While some say this solution may add time, effort and expense to the project it offers a clear, long term and positive place for our community to grow without destroying our environment. Redevelopment is the key to successful and long term growth in our community. Plymouth achieved the #1 Place to Live Award by Money Magazine in part because of our ratio of parks and trails to people. I love the new building proposal. It is a good idea, it just needs the right location. We can do better for our community by finding ways to keep what natural areas we have left. Please keep Plymouth #1 in the hearts and minds of Plymouth residents. I believe there are always solutions for conflict if people listen to one another and work together. There is a conflict between Plymouth residents and the Planning Commission on the issue of the new proposed WEST MEDICINE LAKE PARK PAVILLION. Please listen to the constituents who will be most affected by the this construction. We can resolve this issue if we work together. We can keep WMLP clean and natural and unharmed. We can find a location for redevelopment and build a community center. We can do it if we work together. Please do not exclude local residents from the planning process. We deserve the respect and will be the most impacted by the outcome. You deserve our observations, wisdom and experience. A wedding group was taking photos on the covered bridge this Saturday evening. They parked three cars illegally on West Medicine Lake Drive narrowly leaving space to move around them. If the proposed building is finished and rented out for wedding receptions this kind of activity will more than double it will be a hundredfold. Page 32 Wildlife in this area has declined at an alarming rate. In the last ten years alone turtle populations that once featured painted turtles, snapping turtles and even the endangered Blandings turtle have rapidly declined. There were once blue herons, snowy egrets and buntings in abundance. There are trees along the shore that more than fifty years old. Architects often see trees as a renewable resource. But does a five year old river birch really replace a seventy year old white pine or oak tree. Will it even live that long? Will it produce as much oxygen? Or provide a home for birds, small mammmals and insects (remember insects are the major food source for birds)? The impact of the construction process alone on the ecosystem at WMLP is not one of negotiable renewal. People may enjoy the WMLP as a back drop for their wedding photos but what a false picture of nature and serenity it will be if we allow our stewardship of Medicine Lake to waver. Please keep WMLP a natural asset to our community. I promise to work hard to organize, fund raise and participate in the relocation of the proposed building. It is a good idea that deserves a good location. WMLP deserves a good future, too. Please remember the trees, birds, butterflies, fish, etc. that have no voice but deserve representation, too. Respectfully, C , R "t k C. Ruth Mason Page 33