HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Packet 03-13-1995 SpecialPLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
MONDAY, MARCH 13, 1995
7:00 P.M.
Public Safety Training Room
1. 1995 CIP update
2. Memo of January 12, 1995 on Financial Planning for future
Capital Needs
3. Summary Report Evaluation and Ranking of Natural Areas
4. Map and List of Priority Trail Projects and Costs
5. Operating Costs for Trails
6. Timetable and Costs for possible Bond Election
7. Chart of Tax Levies for different Bond Issue Amounts
8. Memo on Alternative Financing Scenarios
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1
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MN 55447
DATE: March 9, 1995
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Dwight D. Johnson, City Manager
SUBJECT: Summary of Events
Tax Increment Financing Bill. The public hearing was held on Wednesday morning
on HF 147 which would potentially affect millions of dollars of Plymouth TIF funds.
A revised version of the bill came out on Tuesday which provides a great deal of help
for our problem. The new provision states that if we re -adopt a qualifying plan to
spend the money from our old TIF districts by July 1, 1995, we can then spend the old
TIF dollars for the items in that re -adopted plan. The new plan must be adopted after
notice and public hearing, but otherwise does not seem to have any new restrictions in
it other than go through the public process again.
Rep. Ozment, the chief author, realizes that too many cities would have too many
problems with the previous language in the bill that would have required the old
districts to be decertified if no there are no outstanding bonds or binding contracts in
force. With his new provision, he simply wants to restore some accountability to the
public through a new public hearing and a new plan. Rep. Ozment has spent some
years on the Education Committee, and his basic concern is that the expanded use of
TIF in the state is costing education needed funding. I talked to Rep. Ron Abrams
after the hearing, and informed him that the new provisions would be an acceptable
solution in allowing us to keep the use of our TIF funds from old districts. Rep.
Ozment took nearly an hour to present the bill and answer questions, leaving time for
only people form out of town to testify. The hearing will be re -convened in the next
week or two.
Orfield legislation on tax base sharing. The hearing on this bill was held Tuesday
morning. Mayor Tierney was present and testified briefly as chair of the Municipal
Legislative Commission. The original bill which called for a complete sharing of all
tax base has been replaced with a bill that would take all valuation on homes over
200,000 in value. The money collected on these homes could either be used for
T
affordable housing efforts in the community or exported to other communities as a
form of fiscal disparities. The modified bill passed the committee on a party line 7-5
vote. Mayor Tierney pointed out in her testimony that loss of some of our tax
valuation could result in a tax increase on everyone in the City, including those on
limited or fixed incomes. Bob Renner, our Municipal Legislative Commission
lobbyist, believes that even though the committee forwarded the legislation on, the vote
for it was unenthusiastic and that many good points of testimony were made against it
by various speakers.
Pineview Rail Crossing. The long-awaited agreements have been finally received
yesterday from the CP Rail Company to install the crossing arms at the Pineview
crossing. Also, much of the electrical part of the installation has been done. They are
reportedly waiting for some parts to install the actual crossing arms.
Street Reconstruction Neighborhood Meetings. A neighborhood meeting with
Ranchview Lane residents was held this week with about 8 citizens attending. The
assessments will be up to $4,000 for some residents because of storm sewer and curb
and gutter installation as well as the street reconstruction. Considering the assessments
proposed, major opposition is not yet evident. A similar meeting was held for
downtown Plymouth owners and only one person came. The final neighborhood
meeting for the other streets in the program is tonight (Thursday evening).
Planning Commission. On Wednesday evening, the Planning Commission
unanimously voted in favor of the reguiding of the High School-Playfield site. The
Commission voted 4-1 to oppose the reguiding of land from LA -1 to LA -3 to allow
townhome development at 12300 18th avenue. A number of neighbors were there to
oppose the reguiding, even though only a few spoke. You received correspondence
opposing the reguiding earlier this week.
LEAGUE OF MN CITIES TEL:612-490-0072 Mar 07 95 15:04 No.019 P.19
03/06/95 2:17 p.m. (RESAEpT ) JH JK12
1 receiving the notification. Its written response must state
2 whether the municipality accepts, in whole or part, the
A,
r1l 3 auditor's findings, if the municipality does not accept the
4 findings, the statement must indicate the basis for its
5 disagreement. The state auditor shall annually'summarize the
6 responses it receives under this section and send the summary
7 and copies Of the responses to the 'chairs of the committees of
8 the legislature with jurisdiction over tax increment_financing:
9 Sec. 17. Mlnnesata statutes 1994, section 469.179, is
10 amendod by adding a subdivision to read:
11 Subd. 4. (PRE -1990 DISTRICTS1 USE OF REVENUES TO
12 DECERTIFY.) (a) This subdivision applies to_a_district or
13 project area for which the request for certification Was made
14 befu.c May 1, 1990, whtiLLltiar ar not, the request fide eerEiEioation
15 was made on, before, or after August')., 1979.
16 (b) Revenues derived from tax increments_may only be used
17 for the following costs:
18 (1) to finance costs that Qualify under the 90 percent test
19 in section 469,176, subdivision 4', for activities in areas .that
20 would goalify for designation as a redevelopment. district under
21 section 469.174,.subdivision 10. Mat any time after
22 certification of the district, the authoritX removed or financed
23 the removal of a substandard building, the removed buildin ma
24 be considered in determining whether the area qualifies as a
25 redevelopment district under section 469..174, subdivision 10;
26 (2) to pay For a removalaction or remedial action under a
27 development action response plan;
28 (3) to finance costs under a qualifying plan for the use •7.-
29 the increments, a_do_pted b_y__J_uly1_,1995. The governing body
V 30 the municipality may adopt the plan only after holding a pub-'_,
31 nearing in the manner and with the notice provided for adopt -..n
32 of a new tax increment financing plan. The plan must soeci:y
33 the properties to be acquired, improvements to be °financed, ar::
34 other costs to be paid under the Dian. The plan must set a
35 Maximum amount for each item in the plan and the total amours:
36 aDDroved under the nian may not exceed the authority's best
18
LEAGUE OF MN CITIES TEL:612-490-0072 Mar 07 95 15:05 No.019 P.20
r
03/06/95 2:17 p.m. RESDEPT ) JH JM12
1 Qrojection of increments for the rest of the life of the
2 district. The costs for an item approved under a gualifxia
31p an may not exceed the maximum amount set for the item;
4 (4) amounts permitted under a neighborhood revitalization
5 program under section 469.18311
6 L5. to pay outstanding bonds that are secured by revenues
7 of the district and that were issuedand sold before February 1,
8 1995, or bonds issued to'refund the principal amount of, the
9 bonds issued before• February 1, 1995•
10 L6) to payobligations under a binding, written contract
11 with a third party, secured by or to be paid from revenues of
12 the district if the contract was executed before February`
13 1995:
14 (7) to fund an escrow account to make future payments under
15 a binding contract meeting the requirements of clause (3);
16 8 to Pay otherproject costs not qualifXing under clauses
17 111 to (4), if one of the following conditions was met b
18 FebruarX 1, 1995:
19 A the authority Adopted a resolution or took other Eormal
20 action allthorizina the issuance of bondsp the entering of
21 contracts, or_payment of money to a•private for the project,
22 9 the authority entered into a development agreement for
23 the Project, or.
24 C the authority contracted with or paid a private for
25 im rovements or services, such as engineering, architectural,
26 testing, legal, or fiscal services, to be 12roVided for the
27 project at a cost sufficient to indicate a likely commitment to
28 proceed.with the project before February -1, 1995,.and
29 if the project costs are for activities that were
30 explicitly planned and contemplated as part of the project and
31 relate to -the actions satisfying clauses (A), (B), or (C);
32 to make payments to a school -district under section
33 469.177, subdivision 10; or
34 (10 L to pay reasonable aeminigtrative expenses, Subject to
35 the otherwise applicable limits on administrative expenses -.-
36
x enses.
36 Sec. 18. (STUDY; METROPOLITAN COUNCIL.)
19
DATE: March 9, 1995
TO: Mayor
Muec
andCity Council
FROM: Kathyert, Assistant City Manager through Dwight Johnson,
City Manager
SUBJECT: 1995 Update to Capital Improvements Program
Attached are spreadsheets which show the status of Capital Improvements Program
CIP) projects. There are no changes to the CIP projects for roads, water, and sewer.
However, the park projects have some proposed changes from the adopted CIP. These
changes are summarized below, and appear in italics on the park project spreadsheet.
Formally amending the CIP to reflect the changes will require a public hearing before
the Planning Commission and adoption of the amendments by the City Council.
Major Proposed Changes to Park Projects
Land Acquisition --the purchase ($250,000 in the CIF) of open space is postponed from
1994 to 1995, and will be used to purchase the "big woods" portion of the Ninth
Playfield site.
Playground Replacement --this project ($200,000) is postponed from 1994 to 1995.
Ninth Playfield Acquisition --the cost reflects the actual price of the land, and assumes
that $250,000 from the CIF will be applied toward the purchase price.
Ninth Playfteld Development --the costs listed for 1995 and 1996 ($1,500,000) coincide
with the development plan for the site. The original estimated cost of developing the
Ninth Playfield was $750,000.
Tenth Playfield Acquisition --funds are identified ($480,000) for acquiring land for the
tenth playfield in 1997 and 1998. Originally spread over three years beginning in
1996, we propose to acquire the land over a two year period.
Neighborhood Park Development --a new project is development of a neighborhood
park, slated for 1998.
Trails --with the exception of 1996, trail construction is continued in each year.
Funding sources are the park dedication fund ($200,000 annually) and MSA ($100,000
annually) .
The funding for these projects can be accommodated within the Park Dedication
Fund/Community Playfields and Trails, and Park Dedication Fund/Neighborhood
Parks. Other than the $250,000 for Open Space land acquisition in 1995, no funding is
proposed from the CIF. Spreadsheets showing this are attached.
Revenue projections for the Park Dedication Funds (Community Playfields/Trails and
Neighborhood Parks) are revised to reflect the recent increase (22 %) in park dedication
fees. Estimating the amount and type of growth in Plymouth is difficult because of
unknowns in the national and local economy. These revenue projections will be
monitored closely as we look at existing and planned development "in the pipeline. "
Also attached is a summary spreadsheet showing all funding sources.
95CIPSUMILS
ymouth
98 Capital Improvements Program
Update
of Funding Sources by Year
Park Dedication
Special Storm Water Infrastruc. Utility MSA Playfields Neighbor. State/Co. Tax Incrmt PIR Other Total
Assessments Fund Rep. Fund Fund Fund Trails Parks Federal Financing Fund
1,160,000 275,000 1,200,000 3,830,000 4,000,000 1,372,000 455,000 20,000 1,985,000 1,000,000 2,300,000 17,598,994
1,000,000 25,000 1,000,000 1,020,000 2,050,000 1,678,321 262,000 2,157,000 3,563,000 0 0 12,755,321
1,000,000 25,000 1,050,000 500,000 500,000 1,500,000 280,000 0 2,000,000 0 99,000 6,954,000
930,000 25,000 1,050,000 675,000 660,000 400,000 175,000 3,010,000 0 0 4,807,000 11,732,000
500,000 25,000 1,050,000 300,000 650,000 480,000 150,000 1,706,000 294,000 0 383,000 5,538,000
4,590,000 375,000 5,350,000 6,325,000 7,860,000 5,430,321 1,322,000 6,893,000 7,842,000 1,000,000 7,589,000 54,578,315
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CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MN 55447
DATE: January 12, 1995
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Dwight D. Johnson, City Manager
SUBJECT: Financial Planning for Future Capital Needs
BACKGROUND: At the January 3, 1995 study session, Council members requested
that staff explore future capital needs in relation to present and future available capital
funds. The immediate issue relates to alternative concepts for improving the City
Council Chambers. However, interest in accelerating our trail development was
expressed at our budget work sessions last August and the work of the Open Space
subcommittee also requires a long range view of our capital financing.
ASSUMPTIONS: The City's capital financing plans are quite diverse and
complicated. Many of the items noted below need further study themselves.
However, staff believes that the following simplifying assumptions are reasonable
within the big picture context of this memorandum.
Capital Improvement Program. It is assumed that the approved CIP is fully funded
through 1998 from existing revenue sources.
Road Improvements. Road improvements not in the CIP, including signals, bridges
and other related projects, will be funded by available MSA and TIF funds, and
will not absorb funding from other sources.
Street Reconstruction. It is assumed that current funding sources for the street
reconstruction program are adequate for the next ten years; however, beyond 2005,
additional resources may be necessary. The projections beyond 2005 will require
further review.
Water and Sewer Improvements. Any water and sewer improvements will be
funded by the Utility Trunk Fund or other utility reserve funds.
Surface Water Management Projects, including future water quality projects, will
be funded from the Stormwater Utility Fund and/or a future surface water utility
fee.
Parks. The completion of the City's planned park system and much of the
currently planned trail system can eventually be funded through present and future
park dedication fees.
Reserves. It is assumed that it would be financially risky to spend all of the
undesignated funds in a short period of time. Staff believes that it would be wise to
reserve about $5 million of the Community Improvement Fund for unknown future
needs or opportunities as well as $1 million of the Project Administration Fund,
which helped fund our wetland studies in 1994 and will be funding our Northwest
Plymouth and Thoroughfare Guide Plan Studies in 1995.
Council Chambers. The scenario shown below does not provide for the larger
Council Chamber lobby expansion alternative.
AVAILABLE SOURCES OF FUNDS: The following chart shows the estimated
available balances from all undesignated City funds.
16,860,000 6,000,000 10,860,000
POSSIBLE FUTURE PROJECTS AND UNDESIGNATED BALANCES
With these assumptions in place, it is now possible to analyze future projects and
undesignated balances. This chart below shows only one of many possible scenarios
and much more work needs to be done on this long range planning effort. With the
exception of the Cable TV Fund, any of the funds could be used for any of the listed
projects. We have attempted to show by the arrangement of the chart how some funds
could reasonably be aligned with certain projects or groups of projects. We are not
sure if Cable TV funds could be used for unrelated purposes without further review of
our franchise agreement and other documents.
Project
Projected Proposed Available
1,000,000
Balance Reserve Balances
Community Improvement Fund 12,700,000 5,000,000 7,700,000
CIF)
3,000,000 it
Field House
Project Administration Fund 2,900,000 1,000,000 1,900,000
Permanent Improvement Revolving 750,000 750,000
Cable TV Reserve Fund 510,000 510,000
16,860,000 6,000,000 10,860,000
POSSIBLE FUTURE PROJECTS AND UNDESIGNATED BALANCES
With these assumptions in place, it is now possible to analyze future projects and
undesignated balances. This chart below shows only one of many possible scenarios
and much more work needs to be done on this long range planning effort. With the
exception of the Cable TV Fund, any of the funds could be used for any of the listed
projects. We have attempted to show by the arrangement of the chart how some funds
could reasonably be aligned with certain projects or groups of projects. We are not
sure if Cable TV funds could be used for unrelated purposes without further review of
our franchise agreement and other documents.
Project Cost Available Balances
Trail Construction (unfunded) 1,000,000 Bond Issue or CIF $7,700,000
Open Space acquisition 3,000,000 it
Swimming Pool 3,000,000 If
Ice Arena 3,000,000 it
Field House 1,750,000 It
Gym Spaces 1,000,000 If
Senior Center 1,500,000 it
Subtotal 14,250,000 7,700,000 with no bond issues
Parks. The completion of the City's planned park system and much of the
currently planned trail system can eventually be funded through present and future
park dedication fees.
Reserves. It is assumed that it would be financially risky to spend all of the
undesignated funds in a short period of time. Staff believes that it would be wise to
reserve about $5 million of the Community Improvement Fund for unknown future
needs or opportunities as well as $1 million of the Project Administration Fund,
which helped fund our wetland studies in 1994 and will be funding our Northwest
Plymouth and Thoroughfare Guide Plan Studies in 1995.
Council Chambers. The scenario shown below does not provide for the larger
Council Chamber lobby expansion alternative.
AVAILABLE SOURCES OF FUNDS: The following chart shows the estimated
available balances from all undesignated City funds.
Community Improvement Fund
CIF)
Project Administration Fund
Permanent Improvement Revolving
Cable TV Reserve Fund
Projected Proposed Available
Balance Reserve Balances
2,700,000 5,000,000 7,700,000
2,900,000 1,000,000 1,900,000
750,000 ----------- 750,000
510,000 ----------- 510,000
16,860,000 6,000,000 10,860,000
POSSIBLE FUTURE PROJECTS AND UNDESIGNATED BALANCES
With these assumptions in place, it is now possible to analyze future projects and
undesignated balances. This chart below shows only one of many possible scenarios
and much more work needs to be done on this long range planning effort. With the
exception of the Cable TV Fund, any of the funds could be used for any of the listed
projects. We have attempted to show by the arrangement of the chart how some funds
could reasonably be aligned with certain projects or groups of projects. We are not
sure if Cable TV funds could be used for unrelated purposes without further review of
our franchise agreement and other documents.
Project Cost Available Balances
Trail Construction (unfunded) 1,000,000 Bond Issue or CIF $7,700,000
Open Space acquisition 3,000,000 It
Swimming Pool 3,000,000
Ice Arena 3,000,000
Field House 1,750,000
Gym Spaces 1,000,000
Senior Center 1,500,000
Subtotal 14,250,000 7,700,000 with no bond issues
Fourth Fire Station
Council Chambers project
Replacement of existing
facilities and equipment
Municipal Golf Course
Totals
1,900,000 Project Administration Fund
1,900,000
510,000 Cable TV Funds $510,000
Permanent Improvement Revolving
750,000 Fund $750,000
Might repay its capital costs with fees)
17,410,000 $10,860,000 with no bond issues.
COMAUENTS: The projects shown are not a part of any approved plans. The staff
does not represent that all of the projects will necessarily be needed in the future, but
rather presents a list of projects that have a reasonable possibility of being needed at
some future date. The cost estimates are only staff estimates based upon similar
projects in other cities.
This brief analysis seems to show that some bonding might be needed sooner or later if
the City decides that most of the projects will be needed at some point. Both the
project list and the assumptions in this memorandum should be discussed with the
Council in more detail at future study sessions. The chart is simply intended to give
the Council the best currently available perspective on the immediate financial issues at
hand relating to the Council Chambers renovation and the Open Space Committee
recommendations.
FUTPROJ.XLS
POSSIBLE FUTURE PROJECTS AND UNDESIGNATED FUND BALANCE
Original Projection
Available Funding Source
Project Cost and Balances
Trail Construction 1,000,000 JBond or CIF, $7,700,000
Open Space Acquisition 3,000,000 Bond or CIF, $7,700,000
Swimming Pool 3,000,000 Bond or CIF, $7,700,000
Ice Arena 3,000,000 Bond or CIF, $7,700,000
Field House 1,750,000 Bond or CIF, $7,700,000
Gym Spaces 1,000,000 Bond or CIF, $7,700,000
Senior Center 1,500,000 Bond or CIF, $7,700,000
Subtotal 14,250,000 7,700,000 with no bond issues
Fourth Fire Station 1,900,000 Project Administration, $1,900,000
Council Chambers 510,000 CATV Fund, $510,000
Replace equip/facilities 750,000 PIR Fund, $750,000
Municipal Golf Course Might repay capital with fees
Total 17,410,000 10,860,000 with no bond issues
POSSIBLE FUTURE PROJECTS AND UNDESIGNATED FUND BALANCE
Option 3--$2,000,000 bond issue for open space and trails, plus $1,000,000 from CIF
Funding Sources
Project Cost and Balances
Swimming Pool 3,000,000 Bond or CIF, $6,700,000
Ice Arena 3,000,000 Bond or CIF, $6,700,000
Field House 1,750,000 Bond or CIF, $6,700,000
Gym Spaces 1,000,000 Bond or CIF, $6,700,000
Senior Center 1,500,000 Bond or CIF, $6,700,000
Subtotal 10,250,000 6,700,000 with no bond issues
Fourth Fire Station 1,900,000 Project Administration, $1,900,000
Council Chambers 510,000 CATV Fund, $510,000
Replace equip/facilities 750,000 PIR Fund, $750,000
Municipal Golf Course Might repay capital with fees
Total 13,410,000 9,860,000 with no bond issues
Page 1
June 7, 1'994
Summary Report
Evaluation and Ranking of
Natural Areas
Plymouth, Minnesota
Introduction
Thirty sites were evaluated for the presence of natural
communities and their ecological characteristics. Sites ranged from
having only completely disturbed or developed land to relatively
high quality natural communities. In addition to describing the
ecology of each site, this report discusses ways to protect and
manage the natural communities at each site. Each site summary
report is divided into three sections called Ecological Assessment,
Protection and Stewardship. This approach' is modeled after the
preserve acquisition approach taken by the Nature Conservancy.
Summary reports are ordered alphanumerically, beginning with
Ward 1 and ending with Ward 4.
The goal of the evaluation is to identify high priority (the top three
to six sites in each plant community) sites worthy of protection by
the City of Plymouth. Table 1 lists the high priority sites, their
significant acreage and ecological grade and rank. The "low
priority" sites are listed in the Appendix. The grade and rank
follow criteria developed by the Department of Natural Resources
Natural Heritage Program and are the primary factors used in
prioritizing the sites from an ecological viewpoint. The grade
takes into consideration issues such as degree of disturbance, size
of the site, linkage to other natural areas and presence of exotic or
nonnative species.
Sites were evaluated on May 19, 24 and 26, 1994. This allowed for
identification of ephemeral spring flora, not evident at other timesItoftheyear. The list of plants, therefore, includes spring
ephemerals, woody species (identifiable all year) and a variety of
herbaceous species (particularly of open areas). There still remainsIfavarietyoflatebloomingspecieswhichwillnotbeidentifiable
because conspicuous remains or new vegetative parts are absent.
Page 1
The flora for high priority sites is listed in Table 2. A list for theIN' low priority sites is in the Appendix.
The following sections on protection and stewardship for natural
areas define the concepts and present the main concerns for the
City of Plymouth. Each of the site summaries will identify the
specific protection and stewardship issues mentioned here.
Detailed protection and stewardship plans are not given at this
time, but should be developed at a future time for the select
number of sites that the City chooses to preserve.
Overview of Protection Measures
Protection measures for natural areas include site acquisition,
conservation easement, regulatory land use restrictions, such as
wetland laws and ordinances, and restrictions on development in
sensitive areas (i.e. steep slopes). City ordinances can be written
to classify the wetlands into high priority and low priority areas.
High priority sites may be given additional protection not afforded
by existing wetland laws.
Protection stringency can be varied for different categories of
natural area lands. For example, classifying natural areas as core
preserves and buffer zones distinguishes the higher quality natural
areas from lower quality areas. Uses permitted (i.e. extent and
type of trails, use of trails, picnicking, domestic pet rules, horses,
etc.) in the buffer zone and core preserve will then vary with
respect to their different levels of protection.
It Wetland protection at the local level can vary according to
differences in perceived value. For example, wetland areas which
contribute to a larger wetland complex or wetland/upland
complex can be given more stringent local protection. In addition,
wetland protection often includes maintaining a natural area
around the wetland called the transition zone.
At the local level, protection can also include developing
understanding with the residents of landscaping practices which
are compatible with maintaining quality natural areas. For
example, the City can work with residents in buffer zones and core
preserves to learn about and provide assistance for natural habitat
landscaping.
For forested tracts, buffer zones can be areas which have been
planted to regenerate the forest edge, in contrast to the core
preserve which is an existing, higher quality natural community.
A primary function of forests is the shade -tolerant habitat. Forests
tracts with elongated rather than compact shapes have a much
larger edge, and thus less shade -tolerant interior. These tracts are
unstable in that they can become a woodland edge community as
sun -loving species invade along the edges. To protect these tracts
Summary Reportort
Plymouth, Minnesota Page 2
buffer zones may need to be established to fill in circuitous edges
and lead ultimately to more shade -tolerant interior.
Overview of Stewardship Measures
7. Stewardship measures include maintaining preserve area boundary
fences, trails, shelters, signs and so on. Fencing and signage can
be chosen according to the adjacent land use and type of natural
community. For example, natural areas adjacent to residential
development may need continuous fencing to restrict dumping or
other inappropriate uses.
Stewardship also includes maintaining and enhancing the
ecological value of the preserve. These issues are restrictions for
erodible slopes, pets and picking wildflowers; management of
exotic species; restoring native vegetation; and prescribed burn
management.
One of the main concerns arising out of this study is deer
browsing in forest tracts, not only on herbaceous vegetation by the
tree seedlings. It is recommended that deer enclosures be
designed and placed in appropriate locations in natural areas
managed by the City of Plymouth. The size can be determined
individually for each site and should take into consideration the
ability to enclose areas with high density seedling production. In
addition, sites with the potential for forming large canopy gaps i.e.,
large, old trees could be enclosed. Enclosures could be moved to
different locations after serving the function and saplings have
established.
Species are called exotics when they are growing in an ecosystem
different from the one they naturally evolved in. Because of their
invasive and profligate growth, due to lack of natural checks and
balances, they are disruptive to natural communities. Managing
exotic species in natural communities can often be critical to
maintaining their existing structure and composition. The Nature
Conservancy has available upon request abstracts for controlling
several woody and herbaceous exotic species found in Minnesota
woodlands and prairies. It is recommended that they be consulted
for developing appropriate stewardship plans for City of Plymouth
natural areas.
Restoring native plant communities typically consists of
reintroducing or increasing the abundance of characteristic species
and removing exotic or nonnative species. The rarest communities
in Minnesota are fire -maintained. Plymouth has several wooded
communities which at one time were maintained by fire as
savannas (scattered trees with about 70% open shrub and herb
layer), but now are woodland or forests. Restoring the savanna
community would be impractical. However, the steps should be
taken to maintain or restore the structure and composition of
Summary Report -
Plymouth, Minnesota Page 3
woodlands which have been disturbed. In Plymouth, disturbance
is primarily from exotic species establishing and disrupting the
characteristics species composition and structure. These
communities can be restored such that the succession towards high
quality forest tracts is favored over domination by stands of exotic
species that provide little biodiversity or habitat for the native flora
and fauna.
Many sites evaluated have agricultural land. Restoring native
prairie (herbaceous) species to fields is practical and would be
recommended to increase diversity adjacent to the existing natural
areas on the site. Prairie areas are typically maintained by
prescribed burning. Additionally, native trees can be planted into
fields adjacent to existing forest tracts. The Department of Natural
Resources Scientific and Natural Areas Program can provide
guidelines for learning how to develop a prescribed burn program.
Prioritizing Sites for Preservation
The site selection process placed nine sites in the high priority
group. Prioritizing this "high priority" group will require further
evaluation by the City in terms of site availability for purchase,
location with respect to the City's park development goals and
other political and social issues. Regardless of these issues, the
City will know that any of the high priority sites is worthy of
protection.
Site Summary Reports
Site 1C
Ecological Assessment
This site contains oak forest, lowland hardwood forest, willow
swamp and emergent marsh communities. Parts of the site are in
agricultural use. The varied topography provides for site diversity.
Although the entire site is about 50 acres, it is still only about half
of the entire complex of upland and wetland (see Figure 1C). The
entire element is fragmented by roads, driveways and residential
landscaping.
The easternmost stand (Figure 1C) has east -facing slopes of 12-18%
and greater. The stand is relatively young, but has a good
distribution of age classes, including an abundance of seedlings.
The herb layer is prominent and varied (see Table 2). Buckthorn is
occasional in the interior and uncommon along the edge.
Unfortunately, this stand is somewhat isolated from the other
natural elements on the site. The road, road edge and private
residence fragment the area, and the stand continues on south of
the site.
10
Summary Report -
INPlymouth,
Minnesota Page 4
The eastern stand of oak forest slopes west at 12-18%. The age
class distribution is good with seedlings of all common species
present. The understory commonly has box elder, which has
invaded from the adjacent lowland forest tract. Although it was
not possible to visit the western portions of this site, the oak forest
clearly continues in the other upland locations of the site.
The lowland hardwood forest is succeeding to box elder from elm
and cottonwood. The wetland areas consist of willow swamp
community with reed canary grass and emergent marsh dominated
by reed canary grass.
The oak forest tracts are small and young, but have good structure
and composition, therefore, a grade of BC is given. Adequate
protection, including adjacent natural communities, and
development of buffer zones surrounding the core area should
allow for these areas to be maintained.
The willow swamp community is heavily invaded by reed canary
grass. The emergent marsh community is dominated by reed
canary grass. This species was introduced as a hay crop in low-
lying areas and has taken over the majority of these areas in the
state. Although these communities are degraded, they are part of
a larger forest -wetland complex and provide habitat value. For
this reason, these areas are given a grade of C.
Protection
Clearly, the most critical issue is the need to protect the entire
element, including those portions not on this site. The land use
indicates that large lots (perhaps 5 -acres each) encompass the
majority of the site. Conservation easements with the landowners
may be the way to protect this part of the natural community.
Awareness and education of these landowners about how to
protect the element will prevent further fragmentation of the area.
Portions of the forest tracts are steeply sloping and, therefore,
would be protected by ordinances restricting development of
highly erodible slopes. The wetland areas, which comprise about
half of the site, can be protected through wetland laws.
Stewardship
Forest sites are mostly sloping and will require well-maintained
trails to prevent erosion. Treefalls across the trails should be
moved to prevent users from going off the trails and trampling the
herb layer. Encroachment of exotic species along the edges and
into interior gaps will need to be managed by cutting and removal.
Removal of reed canary grass from wetland communities is not
practical, nor are adequate methods available.
Summary ReportA-PLYNIOPNM
Plymouth, Minnesota Page 5
Site 1 G
Ecological Assessment
This site contains a large area of oak and maple basswood forest.
A large part of the element is found outside of this site on large
residential lots (Figure 1G). Large wetland areas grade into the
site to the west. Diversity is provided by the variation in slope and
exposure.
Mature red oak (average 14dbh) is a canopy dominant, followed
by sugar maple. Basswood, ironwood, hickory and occasionally
white oak, ash and bigtooth aspen are present. Recent, occasional
logging of these same age trees has occurred in some areas. Tree
seedlings are common. Rarely prickly ash and currant shrubs are
present. The herb layer is well developed with a variety of spring
ephemerals (Table 2).
Given the good distribution of tree size classes, lack of disturbance
to the herb layer and size, this site is given a grade B. The
potential to develop into old growth exists if the entire element is
protected, giving the community a grade A.
Protection
Critical for this community is protection of the entire element, not
just those tracts on this site. This seems practically feasible,
because the land use suggests that the established private
residences value the wooded character of their property.
Education and conservation easements could be used to include
the residents in a whole element protection plan.
Other protection measures include the items discussed previously
such as adequate trails, use restrictions and protection of steep
slopes. A creek passes through the forest with relatively high
slopes. These areas are particularly sensitive to off -trail trampling,
compaction, of soils, and erosion.
Visitors and residents must keep domestic pets leashed. Picking
of woodland wildflowers should be prohibited.
Stewardship
Trails must be adequately maintained. Fallen snags should stay in
the forest, but be moved off of trails to allow users to stay on
trails.
Signs regarding the requirements for protection should be
maintained and replaced regularly. Deer enclosures should be
used to maintain a supply of tree seedlings where necessary.
Summary Report -
INPlymouth,
Minnesota Page 6
Site 11
Ecological Assessment
This site contains a large tract (about 53 acres) of maple basswood
forest. The community continues unbroken to the west and south
to make up a total of 100+ acres. The land to the west if the
proposed site of a new high school. If the remainder of the
community is similar in structure and composition to the site
evaluated, then preservation of the school forest tract would link
together the two sites to make up more than 100+ acres of high
quality maple -basswood big woods forest. The site is nearly level
with both silty and rather heavy clay loam soils, low marshy areas
and Elm Creek passing through the center. The shape is compact
with a relatively low edge to interior ratio. The site shows very
little recent disturbance. Selective cutting, probably of oak,
occurred in the distant past, but red oak has regenerated nicely.
Sugar maple is the most abundant tree. Red oak is common (20%)
and comprises almost all of the canopy. Basswood, ironwood, red
maple and ash are present. Standing and fallen deadwood is
common. Saplings of sugar maple, hickory and ironwood are
typical. Seedlings of sugar maple are highly browsed. The red
oaks range in size from 11-27 diameter. The sugar maples are on
average 8 inches diameter. This forest has a good distribution of
all age classes, except for the lack of young sugar maple seedlings.
Along Elm Creek semi -sunny areas support box elder as the
common understory tree. There is low probability of it spreading
into the highly shaded forest interior. The marshy areas are sedge
meadows and the fringes support most of the herb layer. The herb
layer covers about 30% area and is mostly in patches. The edges
are mostly shaded throughout, but in some places where there are
breaks in the canopy buckthorn is occasional. The size, lack of
disturbance, and structure of this tract make it a grade A forest.
Protection
The forest to the west and south should be preserved along with
this site. Although development of the offsite forest would not
immediately jeopardize the quality of the site, it would place it
closer to the minimum size for an A grade (40 acres). In addition,
due to the high number of red oaks, development could raise the
probability that oak wilt could invade into the tract.
This community should perpetuate itself indefinitely, and no
protection from exotic species in necessary at this time. However,
deer enclosures are recommended to increase survival of sugar
maple seedlings.
Summary Report
Plymouth, Minnesota Page 7
Stewardship
Protection of potential forest songbirds should be taken into
consideration. Cats from adjacent development are the biggest
problem for maintaining the habitat for these birds.
Although the area is nearly level, trails should be well maintained
to ensure that walkers do not trample and compact the ground
away from trails. The banks of Elm Creek could be disturbed from
random use of walkers also. Crossings should be maintained and
signs posted to ensure that people do not erode the banks.
The site also contains land cleared for agricultural practice. Some
of this land could be used as open picnic area and some of it could
be managed as a buffer zone around the core preserve. Tree
planting in the buffer zone could be done to increase the size of
forest interior.
Site 1 K
Ecological Assessment
7 This site contains a maple -basswood forest tract. Almost all of the
community is contained on the site. The Soo Line fragments it
through the center. Agricultural land and Hollydale golf course
surround it. The site is linked to the large Gun Club wetland to
the northeast. There is potential to create a significant acreage of
natural area by preserving this site, site 1G, and the Gun Club
wetland.
South of the tracks is disturbed by roads and recent cutting. TheIsforesthasbeenrecoveringfromacrownfirethatspreadthrough
this tract in the past. A sugar maple -basswood stand with elm and
green ash has canopy sugar maples on average 16 inches diameter
and 8 inch diameter green ash. Buckthorn is common in patches
throughout. The stand is wet-mesic in spots so that logging roads
crisscrossing the stand, are creating gullies and compacting theINgroundthroughout. The herb layer is dense and dominated by
impatiens or Virginia waterleaf. Seedlings of sugar maple are rare.
IN North of the tracks the topography is rolling with high -sided
ravines leading north. The potential for erosion is highest here of
any forest tracts visited in this study. The forest structure varies
Itfrom young even -age stands (2-6 inch diameter tree's) to older
stands of more diverse age structure. Old white oak is widely
spaced in the canopy. In the older stands, the canopy sugar
91 maples are 13 inch diameter. There is a strong component of
sugar maple saplings (<2 dbh) and young basswood are quite
common. Buckthorn is common throughout in patches, but
INhoneysuckle is rare. Sugar maple seedlings are rare.
BtSummary Reportort - .
IdPlymouth,
Minnesota Page 8
This site barely meets the size requirement for grade A forest
tracts. The degree of disturbance in the southern section from
roads and patches of buckthorn throughout also downgrades this
site. This community is young to middle age second growth forest
with a present grade of B, but with protection and management
could become grade A.
Protection
This community could be preserved intact by purchasing this site
alone. A broader protection plan would be to link together this
community with the wetland to the northeast and site 1G. The
adjoining property owners could be involved in a multi -faceted
protection plan that includes conservation easements, wetland
protection, and City acquisition.
The northern section is sensitive to trail placement. Ravines need
to be crossed and trails need to be well maintained and prohibit
off trail walking.
The southeast corner is presently used as a parking lot and wood
chip site. The overstory has been maintained and the roads lead
in from here. Picnicking areas could be established in this
off location.
Stewardship
Buckthorn needs to be removed from most parts of the forest. It
still just exists in patches, rather than continuously and is,
therefore, practical to remove. Points for invasion of exotic species
along the railroad line need to be watched closely.
Site X
Ecological Assessment
This site consists primarily of wetland communities. The wetland
continues offsite to the south (Figure 3L). The edges in the
southern segment have been developed. A willow swamp
occupies the majority of the basin. Reed canary grass has
dominated open marshy areas. Dead ash is common, indicating
the hydrology has a history of fluctuation. The edges are not
developed, probably since they are relatively steep -sloping woods.
The complex of wetland cover and woodland transition zone
provides good wetland habitat. Given the variety of wetland
vegetation types and extent of upland edge, this community is
given a grade B.
The adjacent upland is sloping oak forest and lowland hardwood.
The east boundary area is dominated by white oak that are 18
inches diameter on average. Basswood and ironwood are common
understory trees, and along the edge box elder, choke cherry,
Summary Report A-PLYMOT40TO
Plymouth, Minnesota Page 9
green ash and aspen are common. Buckthorn and honeysuckle are
the two exotic shrubs along the edge, but they die out under the
shaded canopy. The herb layer is scattered and covers about 20%
of the ground.
W Protection
This site can be protected with wetland ordinances. The entire
community, not just the part on this site, should be protected
equally. The sloping woods could be protected with steep slope
ordinances or a wetland ordinance which restricts development of
the adjacent transition area.
Stewardship
7 Developing and maintaining trails will be the major issue for this
site. Trails will have to be raised boardwalks. Along the steep -
sloping areas no trails should be developed, due to the difficult
terrain and potential for erosion.
Site 31
Ecological Assessment
This site has hardwood forest and willow swamp communities
underlain by muck. Stands of trees characterize most of the site,
but they are interspersed with stands of willow to the east (Figure
3I,M). The vegetation in the herb layer is highly degraded. Roads
crisscross the site and have compacted the soil such that nonnative
plants such as creeping charley, Kentucky blue grass and
dandelions dominate. Cottonwood is outstanding on this site and
it is interspersed with elm, box elder and green ash. The wooded
edges are dominated by sumac and buckthorn. Dogwoods are
common throughout. A 29 inch diameter bur oak specimen was
observed. The site is degraded; however, it is linked to the larger
willow swamp to the east and on site M and the large cattail
marsh on Bassett Creek. Within this larger area complex, the
towering cottonwoods provide a unique component of the wetland
habitat. For this reason, the community is given a grade BC.
Protection
This site could be protected by wetland laws and a local ordinance
which prohibits development of portions of large wetland
complexes.
Stewardship
Any of the degraded open areas could be used for picnicking
areas. Removing exotic buckthorn and sumac would be very
difficult, but since access is easy is not impractical to consider.
Summary Report
Plymouth, Minnesota Page 10
Garbage dumping is common. This includes pieces of concrete.
All of this should be removed.
Site 3M
Ecological Assessment
This site contains lowland hardwoods and willow swamp
communities. The lowland hardwoods continues to the north
Figure 3I,M). Cutting of very large trees occurred in the distant
past. Green ash, box elder, basswood, hackberry and cottonwood
are typical tree species. Buckthorn covers 25% of the understory.
The herb layer has been disturbed by frequent dumping. The
linkage of this site with adjacent wetland communities increases its
value. Due to the disturbance of the herb layer from dumping and
the extent of buckthorn, this site is given a grade C. With
management and protection, the grade could be raised to at least
a B.
The northwestern area of the site contains a shrub swamp
community. Sandbar willow and red osier dogwood are
interspersed with common reed grass. Marsh marigold are
occasionally found. This community appears to be in good
condition with little disturbance. Due to the linkage of this
community with lowland hardwood forest, cattail marsh to the
east and site 3I, a grade of B has been assigned. Blanding's turtle
has been reported crossing the road in this area within the last five
years. This species is ranked as state threatened.
Protection
Wetland laws protect the shrub swamp community. As identified
above under Site 3I, a wetland ordinance which protects larger
wetland complexes from fragmentation would adequately protect
much of this site. Additional protection via acquisition or wetland
ordinance to protect upland transition zones would be necessary
for the lowland hardwood forest.
Stewardship
A field is in the southeast part of this site. This could be managed
as a picnic area. Trails will be difficult to develop and maintain.
Raised boardwalks are necessary to prevent compaction in some
places and to allow passage over standing water.
Buckthorn removal is critical to maintain the structure and
composition of the lowland hardwoods.
Summary Report .
Plymouth, Minnesota Page 11
Site 3N
Ecological Assessment
This site contains a complex of wetland communities. The unique
element here is the presence of tamarack. It appears that the
community is a shrub swamp with tamarack making up about 30%
of the wooded areas. Tamarack is located in a circular zone
centrally located in the site. The wooded area located to the south
central is weedy in nature and covers a long path of road rubble
large old blocks of concrete). The wooded area on the east
boundary is lowland hardwood forest. The southeastern area is
mostly covered by a cattail marsh. Scattered stands of reed grass
and sedges are along the edges. The north central area is
dominated by reed canary grass. The shrub swamp is invaded by
reed canary grass, but many native herbs are still present. Due to
the presence of tamarack in this community, the shrub swamp is
given a AB grade. Tamarack are sensitive to poor water quality
and thus are an indicator of higher quality areas. Also, they are
rare in this part of the state.
The southwestern open area is an old field. This area would be
useful as a picnic area.
Protection
Wetland ordinances should be used to restrict development on this
site. It is recommended that the site be specially investigated to
see what conditions should be maintained to sustain the tamarack.
The lowland hardwoods should be protected as wetland transition
zone.
Stewardship
The old field should either be managed as a picnic area or restored
with native flora.
The old concrete blocks should be removed. This practical with
heavy equipment crossing the old field.
Site 4A
Ecological Assessment
This site contains a complex of several wetland and upland plant
communities. The uplands range from closed canopy forest to
open, brushy areas. All the upland sites have been considerably
disturbed by roads and paths. Fortunately, erosion is not severe
in most places, because the topography is gently sloping. The site
is bordered by the Soo line to the south, and residential and
commercial development. Because of its size, complexity and
potential for restoration, the site is still worthy of protection.
Summary Reportort -
Plymouth, Minnesota Page 12
The original upland plant communities were mostly fire -
maintained oak savanna and prairie. Large (24 inch diameter), low
spreading and widely spaced individuals of bur oak are present in
the south-central part of the site (Figure 4A). A few of the prairie
herbs are still evident and indicate that the site supported mesic
prairie. All of the open areas along the south end of the site are
disturbed prairie remnants, containing weedy herbs and stands of
aspen and sumac. The grade is D because of the poor
representation of the characteristic prairie species.
The oak forest is an upland lobe surrounded by several different
wetland communities. The structure indicates that this area was
most likely a savanna community. Red oak has succeeded since
fire suppression. Maple and elm saplings are prominent in the
understory. Woodland edge species are not found in the interior.
With appropriate management, this tract can develop into a high
quality oak forest. For these reasons, the community is given a
grade of BC.
The lowland hardwood forest is dominated by green ash and
aspen, with scattered bur oak, cottonwood and paper birch.
Sumac occupies 60% of the edge along the oak forest and is located
in patches throughout the more open areas. The hardwoods
occupy many small knolls scattered among the marshy, wetland
areas. Wetland transition zones leading to the hardwood stands
were originally dominated by sedges and low prairie species.
Now these areas are primarily occupied by scattered stands of
aspen and sumac, paths and roads, weedy herbs and a few
isolated pockets of original native vegetation. Although the
lowland hardwood stands are still representative of this
community, the small size makes them mostly edge. A grade of
C has been assigned to this community.
Shrub swamp and cattail marsh, occupy areas surrounding open
water. Silky and red osier dogwood and willows are the
characteristic shrubs. Canary grass is a common herb
surrounding these communities. These communities are graded B.
Their value for wildlife is good because of the existence of
surrounding upland habitat.
Protection
Several open water and wetland areas on this site are currently
protected by the Department of Natural Resources. This site is the
only one in this study that contains a relatively large landscape of
wetlands interspersed with upland transition area. Protecting the
upland would not only provide an opportunity to restore both
mesic and low prairie, but is critical to maintaining the habitat
value of the wetlands. Protection could be accomplished by local
ordinances protecting upland interspersed in wetland complexes.
The oak forest should be acquired.
Summary Report A-PLY90T4MM.
Plymouth, Minnesota Page 13
4
4
4
4
4
4
10
Stewardship be restored.
Cutting of
en cover areas
and prairie can material should
be
The OP d burning out young woodysumacstandsan
species should
be
performed and then
of nativeread of weedy
undertaken.
Restoration will also reduce th spread
naintaining
or
the lowland
hardwoods,
herbs into the quality of this comrr urutY
impTOVing
ireseededand
4se
covered to
Roads and Paths should bcrease the acreage
of highly
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prevent wash out and de
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MinnesotaPlymouth, M
Page 14
TABLE I
SITE GRADE, RANK' AND PRIORITY
Rank
Siz12 Priori
Communi
Grade
B End 39.6 3
Maple -Basswood Forest 1
A End 53.3
Maple -Basswood Forest 2
B THR 78.8
Oak Forest B SPC
Willow Swamp/N4arsh
Oak Forest
BC
C
THR
SPC 48.9 9
Lowland Hardwood C SPC/SEC
Willow Swamp/Marsh
B THR 30.1 6
Oak Forest C SPC
Willow Swamp 8
BC SPC 13.7
Lowland Hardwood Forest 7
C SPC 10.5
A
Hardwood Swamp B SPC
Willow Shrub Swamp
Tamarack Swamp
AB
B
SPC
SEC 46.2 4
K
Cattail Marsh C SPC
Emergent Marsh
Oak Forest
BC
B
THR
SPC 53.5 5
4A
Willow Swamp C SPC
Lowland Hardwood Forest B
Cattail Marsh D
Prairie
e Program and MinnesotacommunitiesbytheNaturalHeritageSEC=secure.
Minnesota state ranks determined for naturalndangered, ecologist; ENDSg
THR=threatened, SPC=special concern,
County Biological Survey
Most sites include additional acreage with developed acreage.
2 Significant acres.
TABLE 2. LIST OF PLANTS
SM COMMUNITY LAYER
TREES SHRUBS HERBS
IK FOREST sugar maple buckthorn, c virginia bedstraw jack in the
creeper pulpit
basswood virginia wood nettle round lobe
waterleaf hepatica
elm impatiens twisted stalk
green ash wood violet perm. sedge
white oak ferns moonbeam
ironwood
1I FOREST red oak meadow rue virg.
waterleaf
sugar maple virg, creeper jack inthe
pulpit
basswood ferns wild
geranium
red maple wood nettle
green ash blue cohosh
ironwood bedstraw
hickory twisted stalk
box elder moonbeam
IG FOREST red oak buckthom,r virg. wood nettle
waterleaf
sugar maple prickly ash, r spring beauty bloodroot
basswood currents meadow rue geranium
elm osmorhiza bedstraw
hickory wood violet ferns
ironwood groundnut twisted stalk
bigtooth wild ginger per -foliate
aspen bellwort
green ash
white oak
choke cherry
IC FOREST white oak current bedstraw geranium
hickory seviceberry virg.creeper wood nettle
choke cherry buckthorn meadow rue impatiens
big tooth spring beauty ferns
aspen
red oak woodbine jack in the
pulpit
basswood baneberry
green ash twisted stalk
elm bloodroot
quaking yellow violet
aspen
box elder blue cohosh
WETLAND born elder sandbar reed canary impatiens
willow grass
elm bedstraw burdock
3L FOREST basswood buckthom,c impatiens
white oak serviceberry false
solomons
seal
elm honeysuckle virginia
creeper
ironwood prickly ash, canary grass
0
green ash
3I WETLAND cottonwood sanbar creeping
willow charley
elm buckthorn, c kentucky
blue grass
box elder silky dandelion
dogwood
green ash sumac canada
tiistle
bur oak burdock
3M WETLAND sandbar reed grass
willow
red osier marsh
dogwood marigold
LOWLAND basswood currant
A
bedstraw kentucky
blue grass
Voft -- - .
hackberry solomons
red osier
seal
box elder jack in the
pulpit
cottonwood nettles
elm
cottonwood
3N VvTETL ND tamarack red osier marsh golden cattail
dogwood marigold alexanders
cottonwood willow impatiens bedstraw
box elder joe pyeweed reed canary
grass
green ash buckthorn, c impatiens
4A FOREST red oak
bur oak
elm
WETLAND red osier
dogwood
sandbar
willow
LOWLAND cottonwood sumac, c goldenrods poison ivy sedge
aspen serviceberry big bluestem violet brome
green ash silky bee balm kentucky
dogwood blue grass
bur oak pussy willow round head dandelion
bushclover
paper birch white spirea strawberry spring
beauty
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15,
OF PLYMOUTH
JTUROULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MN 55447
DATE: March 3, 1995
TO: Dwight Johnson
FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director, Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: TRAILS
Attached for City Council review is a printout of the estimated cost for completing all of the
trails proposed within the MUSA area of the City. $1.2 million would fund all of the projects
down through item No. 22, with the exception of a bridge over 494 at County Road 9. We
have submitted a federal grant application for a bridge over 494 and if we are successful, our
share of the cost of the bridge would be about $150,000.
On the attached trail plan, I have highlighted in green the 11 miles of trail we could build for
1.2 million. The blue highlighted trails are MSA funded projects scheduled for 1995/96.
If we invest approximately $1.2 million in the trail program, we will add approximately 11
miles of trail. We estimate that it currently costs approximately $350 per mile per year to
maintain trails. Our increased annual operating cost would be approximately $4,000 additional
each year then. We currently have two sidewalk clearing machines in our fleet. At some time
in the future, it will be necessary to acquire a third machine, which runs approximately
65,000.
EB/np
TRAIL PROJECTS
March 2, 1995
Map No. Project Location Length
On -Off
Road
Class I or $201foot
II Cost Est. CIF TIF MSA Park Ded Year
1 Xenium Ln, Mntnka to Luce Line 1.00 1 105,000 95
2 Vicksburg, Old Rckfrd Rd to Sch Lk Rd 1.60 1 169,000 95 both sides
3 19th Ave, Holly Ln to T.H. 101 0.30 1 32,000 95
4 Co Rd 61, Plym Crk to Co Rd 9, west side 1.00 1 105,000 95
5 Fernbrook, Co Rd 9 to 34th, east side 0.50 1 53,000 95
6 Vinewood Ln, Co Rd 9 to Northwest Blvd 0.50 1 50,000 95
7 Schmidt Lk Rd, Fernbrook to Vicksburg 1.10 1 116,000 X 95
8 Xenium Ln, 32nd Ave to Co Rd 9 0.75 1 74,000 95
9 Turtle Lake trail south to Old Co Rd 9 0.40 Off 1 42,000 95
10 Dunkirk Ln, 24th Ave to 33rd Ave 0.75 1 63,000 95
11 West Med RR track to T.H. 55 0.30 II 32,000 95
12 34th Ave to Lanewood Ln, south side 0.30 Off 1 32,000 95
13 Co Rd 47, Annapolis to Northwest Blvd 11 173,000 95 study done '94
14 East/West trail-Vicksburg/Fernbrook Off 1 73,000 95 study done '94
15 Northwest Blvd, 42nd to 43rd 1 34,000 95 study done '94
16 Northwest Blvd, 54th to 56th 1 72,000 95 study done '94
17 St. Mary's Park to East Jr. High 0.25 1 20,000 95
18 Hemlock, Co. Rd. 10 to 62nd Ave Off II 60,000 95
19 Bridge, Co. Rd. 9 & 494 300,000 95
20 Co. Rd. 9, Minnesota to 494 X 95 County road project
21 Co. Rd. 9, Vicksburg to Hwy. 55 X 95 County road project
22 Medina Rd, Co Rd 24 to Co Rd 101 0.70 70,000 95
23 Zachary Ln, 42nd Ave to Co Rd 47 2.10 1 222,000 X 95 & 96
24 Lancaster Ln, Pilgrim Ln to 36th Ave 0.50 1 60,000 96
25 Dunkirk Ln to Maple Creek Park 0.60 Off 1 65,000 96
26 Nathan Ln/ Old Co 15, Mntnka to Revere 0.60 1 63,000 96
27 Ferndale Rd, Co Rd 6 to Luce Line 0.80 1 84,000 X 96
28 Plymouth Creek trail remaining segments 1.70 Off 1 180,000 96 add land cost
29 Carlson Pkwy, Cheshire to Xenium Ln 0.25 1 25,000 96
30 Zachary Ln, Ridgemount to T.H. 55 1.60 1 169,000 96 both sides
31 Plymouth Creek, east side of KL School Off 1 60,000 96
32 Bridge 494/Plymouth Creek trail 400,000 96
33 Bridge, RR to Cardinal Ridge Park 50,000 96
34 Fernbrook Lane/P.C. Tunnel 70,000 96 upgrade existing tunnel
35 East Medicine Regional Trail (loan) 96 Park Dist.
36 1 Parkers Lake Short Cut 1 75,0001 1 96 floating trail & stairs
TRAIL PROJECTS
March 2, 1995
Map No. Project Location Length
On•Off Class I or $201foot
Road II Cost Est. CIF TIF MSA Park Ded Year
37 Vicksburg, Cc Rd 6 to 18th Ave, east side 0.25 1 26,000 97
38 Cc Rd 6, Dunkirk to Vicksburg, south side 0.50 1 50,000 97
39 Vicksburg, 1 8th Ave to T.H. 55, east side 1.25 1 132,000 97
40 Xenium Ln, Luce Line/Hwy 55 1.00 106,000 97
41 Xenium Ln, Hwy 55132nd Ave 0.40 44,000 97
42 Cc Rd 6, Fernbrooklenium 0.40 44,000 97
43 Old Cc Rd 9, PolarislVicksburg 0.40 42,000 97
44 Plymouth Creek Park 1.00 100,000 97
45 Cc Rd 24, 551101 0.80 85,000 97
46 6th Ave, Xenium to Sycamore 0.30 30,000 97
47 T.N. 101, 26th Ave to Cc Rd 24 0.40 1 42,000 coordinate with County
48 26th Ave, Med Ridge Rd to T.H. 169 0.30 1 32,000 on hold
49 Cc Rd 47, Annapolis to Vicksburg 400,000 hold
50 Vicksburg Ln, Sch Lk Rd to Cc Rd 47 280,000 hold
TOTAL 4,611,000
DATE: March 2, 1995
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Kathy Lueckert, Assistant City Manager r
SUBJECT: Possible Schedule and Costs for Open Space/Trails Referendum
As you consider the possibility of a referendum for Open Space and Trails, some
information on a possible schedule and the estimated costs of the election might be
useful.
Schedule
Detailed below is a possible schedule for an Open Space/Trails Referendum. I have
assumed a May 23 date for the referendum.
March 13 City Council Study Session on Long Range Capital Improvements
Planning
March 21 City Council takes action to place referendum question on the ballot.
Consider appointing a citizen committee
Late March City Clerk notifies Hennepin County of May 23 election. A
minimum of 45 days prior to the election is the required notice.
April Plymouth News Preliminary information on referendum
May Plymouth News Detailed information on referendum. Announce Community
Meeting Date
0 Week of May 1 Mail information brochure on referendum
Week of May 8 or May 15 Hold Community Meeting with Ward break-out
sessions
May 23 Referendum Election
Estimated Costs of Election
The estimated cost to hold a "regular" election (all twenty precincts voting) is estimated
at $18,500. This figure includes the costs of election judges, ballots, printing, and
polling place charges. In addition, costs for informational materials and a mailing are
projected at between $5,000 - $6,000. Thus the total estimated cost for a referendum
is around $25,000.
We considered other types of elections, such as a mail ballot or reducing the number of
polling places. A mail ballot election is more expensive (over $44,000) than a regular
election. Reducing the number of polling places requires mailing a change notice to
voters prior to the election, and mailing a change notice after the election. Depending
on how many precincts are involved, the postage alone may cost as much as conducting
a regular election.
I hope this information is helpful in your discussions.
03/02/95 10:19 FAX 612 223 3002 SPRINGSTED INC.
Net Proceeds for Projeot
Costs of Issuance (a)
Underwriter's Discount (b)
Total Bonds
City of Plymouth, Minnesota
General Obligation Open Space Bonds
Composition of Issues
2.000,000 Issue
1,956,000
22,000
22.000
3.000.000 Issue
2,940,350
26,650
63,000
Q 002/002
a) Costs of issuance include Financial Advisor fee, Bond Counsel fee, ficial Statement printing,
Moody's rating and miscellaneous costs.
b) Underwriter's discount is $11 per $1,000 bond, based on a 15—year issue rated 'Aaa."
Prepared by: SPRINGSTBD Incorporated (02—Mar-95)
il
DATE: March 2, 1995
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Kathy Lueckert, Assistant City Manager 4*
SUBJECT: Possible Schedule and Costs for Open Space/Trails Referendum
As you consider the possibility of a referendum for Open Space and Trails, some
information on a possible schedule and the estimated costs of the election might be
useful.
Schedule
Detailed below is a possible schedule for an Open Space/Trails Referendum. I have
assumed a May 23 date for the referendum.
March 13 City Council Study Session on Long Range Capital Improvements
Planning
March 21 City Council takes action to place referendum question on the ballot.
Consider appointing a citizen committee
Late March City Clerk notifies Hennepin County of May 23 election. A
minimum of 45 days prior to the election is the required notice.
April Plymouth News Preliminary information on referendum
May Plymouth News Detailed information on referendum. Announce Community
Meeting Date
0 Week of May 1 Mail information brochure on referendum
s
Week of May 8 or May 15 Hold Community Meeting with Ward break-out
sessions
May 23 Referendum Election
Estimated Costs of Election
The estimated cost to hold a "regular" election (all twenty precincts voting) is estimated
at $18,500. This figure includes the costs of election judges, ballots, printing, and
polling place charges. In addition, costs for informational materials and a mailing are
projected at between $5,000 - $6,000. Thus the total estimated cost for a referendum
is around $25,000.
We considered other types of elections, such as a mail ballot or reducing the number of
polling places. A mail ballot election is more expensive (over $44,000) than a regular
election. Reducing the number of polling places requires mailing a change notice to
voters prior to the election, and mailing a change notice after the election. Depending
on how many precincts are involved, the postage alone may cost as much as conducting
a regular election.
I hope this information is helpful in your discussions.
03/02/95 10:19 FAX 612 223 3002 SPRINGSTED INC.
Net Proceeds for Project
Costs of Issuance (a)
Underwriter's Discount (b)
Total Bonds
City of Plymouth, Minnesota
General Obligation Open Space Rands
Composition of Issues
2,000,000 Issue
1,956,000
22,000
22.000
3,000,000 Issue
2,940,350
26,650
33.000
Z002/002
a) Costs of issuance include Financial Advisor fee, Bond Counsel fee, ficial Statement printing,
Moody's rating and miscellaneous costs.
b) Underwriter's discount is $11 per $1,000 bond, based on a 15—year issue rated 'Aaa."
Prepared by: SPRINGSTIED Incorporated (02—Mar-95)
03/03/95 11:38 FAX 612 223 3002 SPRINGSTED INC. Z002/002 Q
City of Plymouth. Minnesota
General Obligation Open Space Bands
Estimated Average Annual Tax Levy for Various Issue Sizes
Estimated
Average
Annual
Estimated Tax Impact
100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000
Amount of Bonds Issued: Tax Levy Property Property Pro e eery_
8,351,000,000 105,900 3.34 5.01
Pro
6.68
2,000,000 211,800 6.68 10.02 13.36 16.70
3,000,000 317,700 10.02 15.03 20.05 25.06
4,000,000 423,600 13.36 20.05 26.73 33.41
5,000,000 529,600 16.70 25.06 33.41 41.76
6,000,000 635,400 20.05 30.07 40.09 50.11
7,000,000 741,300 23.39 35.08 46.77 58.46
8,000,000 847,200 26.73 40.09 53.45 66.82
9,000,000 953,100 30.07 45.10 60.14 75.17
10,000,000 1,059,000 33.41 50.11 66.82 83.52
11,000,000 1.164,900 36.75 55.12 73.50 91.87
12,000,000 1 1,270,8001 40.09 60,1480.18 100.23
Assumptions:
1) Assumes an estimated average annual interest rate of approximately 5.35% and even annual debt service
requirements over 15 years.
2) Estimated tax impact is based an the tax rate calculated by dividing the average annual levy for each issue
size by the City's 1994/95 estimated market value of $3,169,845,700, The tax rate times the sample
property value equals the estimated tax impact
Prepared by: SPRINGSTED Inc.
03 -Mar -95
I
DATE: March 3, 1995
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Dwight D. Johnson and Dale Hahn
SUBJECT: FINANCING SCENARIOS FOR TRAILS AND OPEN SPACE
We have identified the following principal scenarios for financing the acquisition of
open space areas and the acceleration of trail construction. Each of them assumes an
overall need of $3 million to accomplish the desired objectives and that any bond issue
will extend for 15 years at an interest rate of 5.35 percent.
OPTION 1: Issue General Obligation Bonds for $3,000,000.
Annual principal and interest payment: $317,700
Percentage increase in City taxes: 3.5 percent
Percentage increase in total taxes: 0.5 percent
Dollar increase for $150,000 home: $15.03 per year
Net increase for $150,000 home after repayment of old park
bonds: $6.94 per year
Election required: yes
Comment: Increases taxes. Conserves all existing Community Improvement Funds for
future purposes.
OPTION 1A: Issue General Obligation Bonds for $3,000,000 and have $1,000,000
of principal repaid from park dedication funds over 15 years.
Annual principal and interest payment: $317,700
Percentage increase in City taxes: 2.31 percent
Percentage increase in total taxes: 0.31 percent
Dollar increase for $150,000 home: $10.02 per year
Net increase for $150,000 home after repayment of old park
bonds: $1.71 per year
Election required: yes
Comment: Minimal tax increase. Will place a burden of about $100,000 on parks
capital improvements plan, exacerbating park dedication cash flow problem in five year
Capital Improvements Plan.
Page 2
OPTION 2: Spend $3,000,001 from the Community Improvement Fund.
No bond payments
No taxes used
No tax increase for average homeowner
Net tax decrease for $150,000 home after repayment of old park bonds:
8.31 decrease per year
Election required: yes
Comment: No tax increase, but leaves significantly fewer funds in the Capital
Improvement Fund for long-term future projects.
OPTION 2A: Spend $2,000,001 from the Capital Improvement Fund and borrow
an additional $1,000,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund to be repaid from
park dedication funds over 15 years.
No bond payments
No taxes used
No tax increase for average homeowner
Net tax decrease for $150,000 home after repayment of old park bonds:
8.31 decrease per year
Election required: yes, if open spaces and trail programs are considered one
project
Comment: No tax increase, but decreases funds available for both general long-term
project list and five-year park capital improvements planned from the park dedication
fund.
OPTION 2B: Borrow $3,000,001 from the Community Improvement Fund and
repay it with $2,000,000 from tax levy increases and $1,000,000 from future park
dedication funds over 15 years.
No bond payments
Percentage increase in City taxes: 2.30 percent
Percentage increase of total taxes: 0.30 percent
Dollar increase for $150,000 home: $9.79 per year
Net increase for $150,000 home after repayment of old park
bonds: $1.48 per year
Election required: yes, if open space and trail expenditures are considered
one project
Comment: Minimal tax increase. However, taxes allocated to repayment of Capital
Improvement Fund could be subject to future property tax freezes or levy limits.
Burdens park dedication fund as in options IA and 2A.
Page 3
OPTION 3: Combine issuance of $2,000,000 in General Obligation bonds with
spending $1,000,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund.
Annual principal and interest payment: $211,800
Percentage increase in City taxes: 2.31 percent
Percentage increase of total taxes: 0.31 percent
Dollar increase for $150,000 home: $10.02 per year
Net increase for $150,000 home after repayment of old park
bonds: $1.71 per year
Election required: yes
Comment: Minimal tax increase. No impact on park dedication funds. Impact on
future projects from Capital Improvement Fund is comparatively modest.
Conclusions: All scenarios require an election. Option 1 provides a net tax increase.
Options 2 and 2A use significant sums from the Capital Improvement Fund without
future repayment. Options 1A, 2A, and 2B significantly burden the park dedication
fund and ongoing park improvement projects such as our playfield development or the
new West Medicine Lake Park.
Option 3 provides the best funding balance with the minimal net new burden to the
taxpayer or the park dedication fund, and little burden on the Capital Improvement
Fund. In effect, we can buy open spaces in a timely manner and accelerate our trail
construction program by about five years without raising taxes, without impacting the
existing park development program, and with little impact on our ability to fund other
possible community projects from the Capital Improvement Fund.