HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 06-22-1995JUNE 22, 1995
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS ....
1. COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE FOR JULY
JULY 11 6:00 P.M.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
Council Chambers
TOPIC:
City Transit Issues
7:00 P.M.
COUNCIL MEETING
Council Chambers
JULY 18 6:00 P.M.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
Council Chambers
TOPIC:
City Attorney Evaluation
7:00 P.M.
COUNCIL MEETING
Council Chambers
2. PLANNING COMMISSION -- WEDNESDAY, JUNE 28 7:00 P.M., City Council
Chambers.
3. PLYMOUTH DEVELOPER'S COUNCIL --TUESDAY, JULY 11, 7:30 A.M., City
Council Chambers. Agenda attached. (M-3)
4. METRO MEETINGS ---- The weekly calendar of meetings for the Metropolitan Council
and its advisory commissions is attached. (M-4)
5 MEETING CALENDAR -- June and July meeting calendars are attached. (M-5)
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO
June 22, 1995
Page 2
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1. SHINGLE CREEK WATERSHED COMMISSION -- Attached is a copy of the
Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission's 1994 Annual Report. (I-1)
2.
a. Letter from James Solem, Regional Administrator Metropolitan Council, on
preliminary 1994 population and household estimates for Plymouth. (I -2a)
b. Letter from Curtis Pearson, Attorney, representing Bassett Creek Management
Commission, regarding Wetland Conservation Act Legislation. The commission is
requesting cities to contact legislators to encourage amendment to Wetlands
Conservation Act which will provide for more flexible standards. (I -2b)
c. Letter from Gayle Burdick, American Massage Therapy Association, thanking Kathy
Lueckert for her approach and help in regulating massage therapy in Plymouth. The
Association plans to present Kathy with a certification of appreciation for her efforts.
(1-2c)
d. Letter from Richard Gautsch, Northwest Metro Drug Task Force, thanking Craig
Gerdes for his efforts and support with the Task Force. (I -2d)
Dwight Johnson
City Manager
Meeting Notice
Plymouth Developer's Council
Proposed Tree Preservation Ordinance
Date: July 11, 1995
Time: 7:30 am to 9:00 am
Place: Plymouth City Hall
A copy of the draft Tree Preservation Ordinance, which would replace the
current tree preservation policy, is enclosed for your information. The
tentative schedule for City consideration of the ordinance is as follows:
July 12, 1995 Informal review/discussion by Planning Commission
July 26, 1995 Planning Commission Public Hearing
August 15, 1995 City Council Adoption
Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt and City Forester Paul
Buck will review the draft ordinance, answer questions and take
comments. Please call the Community Development Department at 550-
5050 if you have any questions.
cd\plan\agendas\dre\devcoun.doc
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE NO. 95 -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 5 OF THE
PLYMOUTH CITY CODE AND THE. CITY'S ZONING
ORDINANCE CONCERNING TREE PRESERVATION
THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH ORDAINS:
SECTION 1. Chapter 5 of the Plymouth City Code is amended by adding Section
500.24 to provide:
500.24. Tree Preservation. Subdivision. 1. Purpose and Intent. It is the policy
of the City of Plymouth to recognize and protect the integrity of the natural environment
of the community through the preservation, protection, and planting of trees. The City
Council has found it necessary and desirable to establish requirements for the preservation
of trees on new development sites. The objectives of this ordinance shall include, but are
not limited to: the perpetuation of the existing tree canopy through root protection by
eliminating or reducing compaction, filling or excavation; prevention of soil erosion and
sedimentation; reduced storm water runoff; improved air quality; reduced noise pollution;
energy conservation through natural insulation and shading; control of the urban heat
island effect; increased property values; protection of privacy by establishing and
maintaining buffers between conflicting land uses; providing habitat for wildlife;
conservation and enhancement of Plymouth's physical and aesthetic "Big Woods"
environment; and to provide an ecosystem approach to planning and development.
Subd, 2. Definitions. For purposes of this section, the following defined words
and terms shall mean:
(a) Critical Root Zone. The circular area under the tree as determined by one
foot of radius for each one inch of diameter.
(b) Disturbance Zone. Any area which will be physically altered from its
natural state. This will include all areas of grading, utility installation,
building pads, driveways, and parldng areas.
(c) Protected, Preserved, or Undisturbed Tree. Any tree with no less than
seventy-five percent (75%) of the critical root zone left undisturbed or
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which has been protected during the construction process by tree protection
fencing if within fifteen feet (15') of any disturbance zone.
(d) Significant Trees. Trees which are healthy, measure a minimum of eight
inches (8") in diameter at a distance of fifty-four inches (54") above
ground, and are a minimum of four inches (4") in diameter for conifers.
Subd. 3. Tree Preservation Required. Unnecessary removal or disturbance of
all trees of significant size and health when locating and building roads, utilities,
structures, and the like shall be avoided. A certain amount of tree removal is an
inevitable consequence of the urban development process. However, with proper manage-
ment and the use of innovative design techniques, loss or damage to significant trees can
be minimized.
Significant tree removal or disturbance beyond the following thresholds shall
require reforestation or restitution:
Residential Districts 50%
Non-residential Districts 33%
For developments that exceed the significant tree removal threshold, the developer
will be required to either reforest appropriate areas within the subdivision on a 1.25 for
1 per diameter -inch of :excess . removal or pay to the City the sum of, $100.00 per
diameter -inch of excess removal or a combination of reforestation in restitution, as
determined by the following equation:
A = Percentage of significant trees removed in excess of threshold
B = Total number of significant trees within development
C = Average diameter of significant trees
D = Tree reforestation or restitution constant (1.25 for replacement or
$100/inch for restitution) .
E = Reforestation or restitution requirement
AxBxCxD = E
Reforestation plans shall be set forth in the development contract for the plat.
Restitution shall be paid to the City in cash at the time of final plat approval.Any such
payments shall be placed in the Community Planting Fund and shall be used for
reforestation projects in the City.
Subd. 4. Requirements for Tree Preservation Plans. A tree preservation plan
shall be submitted with the preliminary plat for a proposed development or an application
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for site plan approval. The tree preservation plan shall be prepared by a registered
surveyor, and provide the following information:
• location, number, size (diameter and/or height) and species of all significant
trees proposed to be removed or disturbed
• location, number, size (diameter and/or height) and species of all significant
trees proposed to be preserved
• proposed disturbance zones
• location and dimension of preliminary building pads and construction zone
proposed on each buildable lot
• proposed locations and details of tree protection fencing to be installed for
all trees to be preserved within fifteen feet (15') of the disturbance zones
• a reforestation plan if the amount of tree removal exceeds the thresholds
provided by this ordinance.
The tree preservation plan shall be reviewed and evaluated by the forester or the
forester's designee. The forester may make recommendations for adjustment of locations
of structures, roadways, utilities, or other elements that may be necessary to enhance tree
preservation and reforestation efforts.
Subd. 5. Requirements for Reforestation Plans. If the removal or disturbance
of trees proposed by the tree preservation plan exceeds the thresholds of this ordinance,
a reforestation plan shall be submitted as part of the tree preservation plan. The
reforestation plan shall be prepared and signed by a licensed forester or a registered
landscape architect and shall meet the following criteria:
• the plan shall indicate all reforestation trees by location, size (diameter
and/or height) and species
• no more than one-fourth (1/4) of the trees may be from any one species
• plant materials shall be of a similar vegetation as found on site and
preference given for trees designated as native
• minimum sizes shall be: Deciduous - no less than 21/2" caliper
Coniferous - no less than 6' high
• installation shall follow City Standard Details SPP -3 and SPP -4
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-0-\ `3
• the plan shall support the purpose and intent of this ordinance as stated in
Section 500.24
• trees shall be from certified nursery stock as defined and controlled by
Minnesota Statutes Sections 18.44 through 18.61, the Plant Pest Act.
• trees shall be covered by a minimum 1 -year guarantee.
Subd. 6. Financial Guarantees.
(a)A cash escrow, bond, or letter of credit to guarantee the tree preservation
plan, and reforestation plan, if applicable, shall be submitted prior to
issuance of a grading permit. For projects including public improvements,
the guarantee shall be part of the development contract, or part of the site
improvement performance agreement (SIPA) if there is no development
contract.
(b) The amount of the financial guarantee to be submitted shall be calculated
as follows: one hundred percent (100%) of the cost of completing the
reforestation plan, if applicable, plus an amount to guarantee preservation
of all trees identified by the approved tree preservation plan to be preserved
within fifteen feet (15') of disturbance zones. The amount shall be
calculated by multiplying the estimated diameter inches of the trees to be
preserved by the rate of payment of restitution established by this ordinance
by .25.
The minimum financial guarantee is $1,000.00. The amount of the financial
guarantee shall be maintained at the calculated level until the City Council
has authorized a reduction or release.
Subd. 7. Inspection and Enforcement.
(a) Initial Inspection Prior to Grading. Prior to issuance of a grading permit,
or prior to commencement of grading if no permit is required, all sites shall
be staked and fenced for tree protection per the approved tree preservation
plan. The tree preservation plan shall be submitted with an application for
a grading permit at least five (5) working days prior to the issuance of the
permit. The forester or the forester's designee shall verify the installation
of the tree protection fencing prior to issuance of the grading permit or
commencement of grading.
(b) Inspection After Completion of Grading. The developer shall notify the
forester or the forester's designee when the grading has been completed.
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0) -
The forester shall inspect the site to verify the preservation of trees as
shown on the approved tree preservation plan. Following this inspection the
City may release, in whole or in part, the financial guarantee required
pursuant to Subdivision 6. Restitution shall be paid for disturbance of any
trees that have not been protected as shown on the tree preservation plan.
(c) Inspection Prior to Issuance of BuildingPermit. All sites and buildable lots
shall be staked and fenced for tree protection per the site plan approved by
the City or per the proposed site plan prior to application for a building
permit. The site plan or plot plan shall be submitted to the forester or the
forester's designee at least five (5) working days before an application is
made for the building permit. The site plan shall also indicate any
reforestation trees to be planted on the site, if applicable. The forester or
the forester's designee shall inspect the site for installation of required tree
protection fencing prior to issuance of a building permit.
(d) Inspection Prior to Issuance of Certificate of Occupancy. The builder shall
notify the forester or the forester's designee when construction has been
completed and at least five (5) working days before a final inspection and/or
certificate of occupancy has been requested. The forester shall inspect the
site to verify the preservation of trees, and the planting of reforestation
trees if applicable, as shown on the approved tree preservation plan.
Following this inspection, the City may release, in whole or in part, any
remaining financial guarantee required pursuant to Subdivision 6.
Restitution shall be paid for disturbance of any trees that have not been
protected as shown on the tree preservation plan.
SECTION 2. Section 10 of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance is amended by
adding Subdivision E to provide:
Subdivision E. Tree Preservation.
Prior to the issuance of building permits for all new or expanded multiple family
residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional uses, a tree preservation plan shall
be submitted. The plan and its implementation shall be in accordance with Section 500.24
of the City Code.
SECTION 3. This ordinance shall be effective immediately upon its passage.
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1995. ADOPTED by the City Council this day of
ATTEST:
Laurie F. Ahrens, City Clerk
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Joycelyn H. Tierney, Mayor
METRO MEETINGS
A weekly calendar of meetings and agenda items for the Metropolitan Council, its advisory and standing committees, and
three regional commissions: Metropolitan Airports Commission, Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission, and
Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission. Meeting times and agendas are occasionally changed. Questions about meetings
should be directed to the appropriate organization. Meeting information is also available on the Metro Information Line at
229-3780 and by computer modem, through the Twin Cities Computer Network at 337-5400.
DATE: June 16, 1995
WEEK OF: June 19 - June 23, 1995
METROPOLITAN COUNCIL
Transportation Committee - Monday, June 19, 4 p.m., Chambers. The committee will consider: bid award
for mechanical installation for the Martin J. Ruter hearing, ventilating, and air conditioning project; Maple
Grove transit capital request amendment; authorization to execute an agreement with the Minnesota
Department of Transportation for cost sharing in the site selection process for a Multi-user Intermodal
Freight Terminal Facility; TH 36 St. Croix River Crossing controlled access approval; credible "Quality of
Life" and Regional Blueprint indicators; 1996 budget; update on Citizen Jury report on traffic congestion
pricing; Runway 4/22 mediation update; and other business.
Tour of St. Paul's Phalen Corridor (for Metropolitan Council members and local officials) - Tuesday,
June 20, 9 a.m., departs from District 2 Planning Council offices, 2169 Stillwater Ave. , St. Paul.
St. Paul Phalen Corridor Community Meeting and Workshop - Tuesday, June 20, 11:30 a.m., District 2
Planning Council offices, 2169 Stillwater Ave., St. Paul.
Special Joint Meeting: Environment and the Community Development Committees - Tuesday, June 20,
3 p.m., Chambers. The committee will consider: Elm Creek Cluster Planning Progress report and
authorization to continue and finalize design; Water Resources Management Development Guide/Policy
Plan private wastewater treatment plants -- clarification policy, proposed criteria; city of Andover new policy
considerations; alternative growth scenarios --evaluation criteria; and other business.
Chair's Informal Breakfast Meeting with Council Members - Wednesday, June 21, 8 a.m., Sheraton
Midway, Bigelow's Restaurant, I-94 at Hamline Ave., St. Paul.
Transportation Advisory Board - Wednesday, June 21, 3 p.m, Chambers. The committee will consider:
proposed amendments to the bylaws; comments on results of the Citizen Jury on traffic congestion pricing;
Metropolitan Council update on potential transit service adjustments; and other business.
Public Hearing: To Hear Public Comments on the Draft 1996-98 Transportation Improvement
Program - Wednesday, June 21, 4 p.m., Chambers.
Executive Committee - Thursday, June 22, 7:30 a.m., Kelly Inn, Benjamin's Restaurant, I-94 at Marion, St.
Paul.
��-N --
Providers Advisory Committee of the Whole - Thursday, June 22, 10:30 a.m., Chambers. The committee
will consider: review of draft 1996-1998 Transportation Improvement Program for the Twin Cities
metropolitan area; regional transit system redesign; and other business.
Metropolitan Council - Thursday, June 22, 4 p.m., Chambers. The Council will consider: Ramsey County
Ground Water Quality Protection Plan; city of Lakeville Water Supply and Distribution Plan; authorization to
award and execute a contract for South St. Paul forcemain inspection and improvements; fiscal year 1996
regional parks operations and maintenance grants; closed meetings of the Finance Committee to discuss labor
negotiation issues; public hearing findings and recommendations to adopt Regional Recreation Open Space
Capital Improvement Program 1996-2005; Family Housing Program; commitment to issue $2.35 million of
Council bonds in 1996-97 and authorizing regional park capital improvement subgrants financed with
environmental trust funds and Metropolitan Council bonds; appointments to the Metropolitan Parks and
Open Space Commission; confirmation of appointments to Transportation Provider's Advisory Committee;
appointments to the Transportation Accessibility Advisory Committee; Council member appointment to the
Metro Radio Board; and other business.
Committee of the Whole - Thursday, June 22, immediately following the Council meeting, Room IA. The
committee will consider the an update on 1996 budget.
Lower Minnesota River Technical Advisory Group - Friday, June 23, 9:30 a.m., Carver County Social
Services Building, Commissioner Meeting Room, Second Floor, 600 4th St. E., Chaska.
TENTATIVE MEETINGS THE WEEK OF JUNE 26 THROUGH JUNE 30, 1995
Community Development Committee - Monday, June 26, Noon, Room IA.
Blue Ribbon Task Force - Monday, June 26, 2 p.m., Room IA.
Minority Issues Advisory Committee - Monday, June 26, 4:30 p.m., Room 2A.
Environment Committee - Tuesday, June 27, 4 p.m., Chambers.
Housing and Redevelopment Authority Advisory Committee - Wednesday, June 28,930 a.m., Room
IA.
Development Scenario Tour for Wright and Sherburne Counties - Thursday, June 29, 2 p.m.; Public
meeting: 6:30 p.m.
The Metropolitan Council is located at Mears Park Centre, 230 E. Fifth St., St. Paul. Meeting times and
agenda are subject to change. For more information or confirmation of meetings, call 291-6447, (TDD 291-
0904). Call the Metro Information Line at 229-3780 for news of Council actions and coming meetings.
METROPOLITAN SPORTS FACILITIES COMMISSION
Intergovernmental Regulations Committee - Monday, June 19, 8 a.m. Metropolitan Sports Facilities
Commission offices, Metrodome, 900 S. 5th St., Minneapolis. The committee will consider legislative issues
and other business.
Finance Committee - Tuesday, June 20, 10 a.m., Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission conference
room, Metrodome, 900 S. 5th St., Minneapolis. Agenda: amend 1995 operating budget; review 1995-98
financial projections; and other business.
Commission Meeting - Wednesday, June 21, 9:30 a.m., Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission
conference room, Metrodome, 900 S. 5th St., Minneapolis.
The Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission office is located at 900 South 5th St., Minneapolis, MN
55415. All meetings are held in the Commission office conference room, unless noted otherwise. Meeting
times and agendas occasionally may be changed. To verify meeting information, please call Lori Peltier, 335-
3310.
METROPOLITAN PARKS AND OPEN SPACE COMMISSION
Commission Regional Parks Tour (regional parks in Anoka and Ramsey counties) - Tuesday, June 20,
tour bus leaves at 4 p.m., Mears Park Centre.
Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission offices are located at Mears Park Centre, 230 E. Fifth St.,
St. Paul, MN 55101. Meeting times and agenda may occasionally be changed. To verify meeting schedules
or agenda items, call 291-6363.
METROPOLITAN AIRPORTS COMMISSION
Special Meeting/Planning and Environment Committee - Monday, June 19,12:30 p.m., Room 303, West
Mezzanine, Lindbergh Terminal, Wold -Chamberlain Field. The committee will consider contract bids for
Southwest Terminal expansion (general, mechnical and electrical); primary distribution system upgrade --
Phase III -switchgear; and freeway signage for St. Paul Downtown airport.
Commission Meeting - Monday, June 19, 1 p.m., Room 303, West Mezzanine, Lindbergh Terminal
Building. The Commission will consider: lease amendment for Gold Concourse FIS facility; executive
director annual performance review; recommendation regarding airport leases; special topics for dual -track
airport planning process (federal environmental process, also remote runway concept evaluation). Consent
items include the following: June ADNE levels; final contract payments for security checkpoints relocation
and 1994 Part 150 Sound Insulation Program; contract bids for 1995 airfield electrical contracts, 1995
landside bituminous at MSP, 1995 pavement rehabilitation at Crystal Airport, runway 13R/31L
reconstruction at Lake Elmo Airport, and May bid cycle for Part 150 Sound Insulation Program; acceptance
of grant amendment; Mn/DOT agreements for land acquisition; review of upcoming construction project
bids; Part 150 program update; Environmental Audit Program: special Planning and Environmental
Committee meeting; July Planning and Environment Committee meeting; Budget Task Force update;
APCOA incentive award; recommendation for contract extension of APCOA, Inc.; contract settlement for
International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 49; 1995 farm land rental rates; award of solid
wastelrecycling contracts; bids received for purchase of one ton press brake; April budget variance;
legislative update; Bearskin Airlines request to provide airline service; Heads UP; and other business.
Metropolitan Airports Commission offices are located at 6040 28th Av. S., Minneapolis, MN 55450. For
more information, call Lynn Sorensen at 726-8186.
OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS
1� June 1995
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U l
OSSEO
SCWMC 1994 Annual Report
Introduction
This annual activity report has been prepared in accordance with the Annual Reporting
Requirements of Minnesota Rules Chapter 8410.0150, Subpart 3. The information presented
in this section summarizes the Commission's activities for 1994 and corresponds with the 11
items listed under Subpart 3 of the Rules.
The Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission (Commission) was formed in 1984
under a Joint Powers Agreement between the nine cities having land within the Shingle
Creek Watershed The nine cities include Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Crystal, Maple
Grove, Minneapolis, New Hope, Osseo, Plymouth, and Robbinsdale. Regular Commission
meetings are held at 12:45 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the Saint Andrews
Club, 8700 Edinbrook Crossing, Brooklyn Park.
The Shingle Creek Watershed Management Plan was approved by the Board of Water and
Soil Resources on April 25, 1990 and adopted by the Commission on May 3, 1990.
A. Board of Commissioners
The Commission is governed by a nine -member board comprised of representatives
(Commissioners) from each member city. Commissioners are appointed by member cities
for a term of three years: Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, and Crystal beginning in 1985;
' Maple Grove, Minneapolis, and New Hope beginning in 1986; and Osseo, Plymouth, and
Robbinsdale beginning in 1987. The names of the current Commissioners, city represented,
address and telephone number are listed on page 1 of the Appendix.
B. Consultants
The Commission currently retains the services of the following consultants:
• Montgomery Watson, Technical Services
• Curt Pearson, Legal Services
• Judie Anderson's Secretarial Services Inc., Administrative Services
Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of each consultant are also provided on page 1 of
the Appendix. The Commission has no employees.
aSCWMC 1994 Annual Report
C. Summary of Goals/Objectives and 1994 Activities
Goals and Objectives
The water management objectives developed by the Commission and included in Section IV
of the Watershed Management Plan include the following:
• Develop hydrologic systems along with a water -related land use planning process to
accommodate existing and adopted land use plans within municipalities.
• Preserve and use natural storage and retention areas to maintain and improve the
hydrologic systems within the watershed.
• Reduce, to the greatest extent practical, the public capital and maintenance
expenditures necessary to control excessive volumes and rates of runoff.
• Maintain or improve both surface water and groundwater quality.
• Prevent and control flooding damage.
e.
• Control erosion and sedimentation.
• Promote groundwater recharge.
• Protect and enhance water -related fish and wildlife habitats.
1 • Protect and enhance opportunities for water recreation.
• Coordinate and communicate the relationships between municipalities, agencies and
citizens which affect water management within the watershed.
Summary of 1994 Commission Activities
Below is a summary of the work effort undertaken by the Commission in 1994 in meeting
the above goals and objectives and projected work plan.
• Reviewed 21 projects within the watershed in accordance with the management
standards and policies of the Commission.
• Adopted revisions to Management Standards to clarify review criteria for New
Development, Redevelopment or Additions to Existing Developments.
.= 1
ISCWMC 1994 Annual Report
• Approved a policy incorporating a performance bond or irrevocable letter of credit
to cover 150% of estimated wetland replacement costs to guarantee successful
completion of the replacement in compliance with the Wetland Conservation Act.
• Prepared 1993 Annual Report in accordance with
P p Minnesota Rules 8410.0150.
• Continued to study lake level data of Twin Lakes/Ryan Lake.
• Participated in the water quality sampling of Bass Lake in Plymouth and Crystal
Lake in Robbinsdale as part of the 1994 Metropolitan Council Volunteer Lake
Monitoring Program. Completed two other related water quality projects funded by
' the Commission -- Bass Lake Water Quality Data Analysis and Crystal Lake Water
Quality Data Analysis.
• Agreed to fund up to $1,000 to participate in the Hennepin Conservation District's
aquascaping demonstration video project and authorized an additional $1,000 for
consulting time.
• Developed a basin inspection p p checklist and maintenance guidelines by which to
conduct follow-up inspections on projects reviewed by the Commission in order to
verify that stormwater treatment facilities have been constructed as proposed and are
functioning adequately. Conducted field inspection of 11 project sites.
• Provided technical assistance to cities in preparing their local plans. Reviewed plans
submitted for conformance with the Shingle Creek Watershed Management Plan.
Provided preliminary review comments on draft local plans submitted by Brooklyn
Center, Brooklyn Park and Maple Grove.
• Investigated the possibility of participating in the Metropolitan Council's Watershed
Outlet Monitoring Program.
• Completed the LGU designation process as required by the Wetland Conservation
Act. Served as LGU for administering Wetland Conservation Act in instances where
' member cities have delegated that responsibility to the Commission.
• Encouraged cities to implement regional ponding facilities wherever feasible to treat
stormwater runoff.
• Worked with other governmental agencies such as BWSR, DNR, Corps of Engineers,
Met Council, Hennepin County, and other WMOs towards a common goal of
protecting water resources and improving water quality within the watershed.
1 1-3
ISCWMC 1994 Annual Report
• Completed execution process of the amended Joint Powers Agreement and
transmitted copies to signatory parties and other entities in accordance with MN Stat.
§10313.211, Subd. 1 and MN Rules 8410.0030.
• Published solicitation of interest
proposals for technical, legal and administrative
services as required under MN Stat. § 103B.227, Subd. 5.
• Adopted a resolution which modified the Commission's variance policy to
incorporate a schedule of fees to offset the costs and expenses incurred by the
Commission during the project review process. (See Appendix page 88.)
• Prepared a newsletter in accordance with Minnesota Rules 8410.0100, Subpart 4.
Newsletter will be made available to member communities for distribution to their
citizens.
D. Project Reviews
The Commission reviewed 21 projects in 1994. These projects included construction of
commercial/industrial buildings/additions, regional stormwater ponds, apartment complex
' remodeling, single family housing developments, improvements to high school athletic field
complex, construction of public trails, industrial site developments, construction of
communications tower, and parking lot expansions. Refer to the project review log and map
for descriptions and locations of these projects (Appendix pages 2 and 3). Four variances
were granted by the Commission during fiscal year 1994: project reviews 93-15, 94-2, 94-8,
and 94-20.
Projects are reviewed in accordance with the management standards and policies of the
Commission and recommendations are made to the member city in which the project is
located. It is then the city's responsibility to enforce the Commission's recommendations to
ensure that natural resources are protected and water quality improvements are implemented.
Copies of engineer's reports and recommendations approved by the Commission for each
project reviewed during 1994 including resolutions granting variances are on file at the
Commission office and engineer's office.
' Site inspections of eleven 1993 projects where water quality treatment improvements were
proposed were conducted by the Commission's consultant in 1994. Prior to conducting the
site inspections, project review files were reviewed and city engineering staff contacted to
see if projects had been completed as proposed. Site inspection checklists previously
prepared for the Commission were filled out at each project site to document the field
inspections. Photographs were also taken at each site to provide a visual record of the
existing conditions of the stormwater ponds that were inspected. A copy of the 1994 Field
Inspection report is found in the Appendix beginning on page 53.
1-4
SCWMC 1994 Annual Report
E. Water Quality Monitoring Data
In 1994, water quality monitoring and assessments were conducted for Bass and Crystal
Lakes. The Commission sponsored volunteer lake monitoring for Bass and Crystal Lakes
through the Metropolitan Council's Citizen Assisted Lake Monitoring program. These
projects also involved a database search for historic water quality data. The historic and
current water quality data were used to assess historic and current trophic state as well as
statistical trend analysis where sufficient historic data were available.
Crystal lake is a hypereutrophic lake with total phosphorus and chlorophyll -a concentrations
that are well above the typical range for lakes in this region. The average summer clarity is
only about 0.5 meters. The operation of an aeration system on Crystal Lake disrupts the
natural temperature stratification of the lake and appears to result in elevated surface
concentrations of total phosphorous due to the vertical mixing with the phosphorus rich
bottom water. The water quality of this lake ranks among the poorest 25 percent of regional
lakes. Recreational and aesthetic uses of this lake are impacted by the poor water quality.
Bass Lake is a moderately eutrophic lake. Total phosphorus, chlorophyll -a, and clarity are
all near the median value for lakes in this region. The water quality of this lake ranks among
the top 45 percent of regional lakes. Recreational and aesthetic uses of this lake are partially
impacted by the water quality.
A copy of the Commission's 1994 Water Quality Report is included in the Appendix on
pages 4-52.
F. Status of Local Plans
The Shingle Creek Watershed Management Plan was adopted by the Commission on May
3, 1990. As required in the Plan, each member city is responsible for preparing a local water
management plan, capital improvement program and official controls as necessary to bring
local water management into conformance with the watershed management plan. After
completion, local water management plans are to be submitted to the Commission for review
and approval. The cities of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Maple Grove, New Hope, and
Robbinsdale have completed drafts of their local plans which have been submitted to the
Commission's engineer for preliminary review comments. Current status of the local
planning process is provided on Appendix page 86.
G. Written Communications
The Commission has prepared a newsletter to be distributed to each member city for
reproduction and distribution to the general public in the summer of 1995. The newsletter
identifies Commissioners and their represented cities, describes the Commission's role in
local water management, its goals and objectives, regulatory and water quality programs,
1-5
ISCWMC 1994 Annual Report
when public meetings are held, how the organization is financed, where the watershed
management plan can be viewed, and other information relative to the Commission's
operations and implementation of its watershed management plan. A copy is included in the
Appendix on pages 90-93.
H. Interest Proposals for Professional Services
The Commission published a notice in the State Register on February 22, 1994 requesting
interest proposals for professional services for fiscal years 1994 and 1995. A copy of the
notice is found on page 87 of the Appendix. Upon review of the interest proposals received,
the Commission elected to retain the services of the current consultants.
I. Assessment of Changes in Fund Balances
Details of the Commission's financial activities during fiscal year 1994, including
expenditures for each accounting category tracked by the Commission, are provided in the
Financial Report included in the next section.
J. Status of Wetland Banking Program
ram
g
The Commission currently serves as the local governmental unit (LGU) for administering
the Permanent Program under the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act of 1991 unless
member cities elect to serve as the LGU. At this time, the cities of Brooklyn Park, Crystal,
Maple Grove, Minneapolis, New Hope, and Plymouth have notified BWSR and the
Commission of their intent to serve as the LGU. A Wetland Management Policy was
adopted by the Commission on March 10, 1994. The policy includes a provision that the
Commission will consider participation in the state wetland bank once such a bank has been
established and LGUs are notified. During the period ending January 31, 1995, the
Commission did not approve any banking of wetlands.
K. Projected Work Plan for 1995
The Commission's projected work plan for 1995 is as follows:
• Continue to review projects within the watershed in accordance with the management
standards and policies of the Commission.
�. • Conduct follow-up field inspections on selected projects reviewed by the Commission
to verify that stormwater treatment facilities have been constructed as proposed and are
functioning adequately.
• Continue to serve as the LGU for administering the Minnesota Wetland Conservation
Act unless member cities elect to serve as the LGU.
1-6
SCWMC 1994 Annual Report
• Conduct water quality projects including: participate in the water quality sampling of
Cedar Island Lake in Maple Grove and Schmidt Lake in Plymouth as part of the 1995
Met Council Volunteer Lake Monitoring Program. Commission has also approved
funding to analyze the data collected from these lakes through the Metropolitan
Council's program.
• Participate on a cost share basis with the Metropolitan Council in a monitoring program
designed to determine the pollutant loading to the Mississippi River at the Shingle
Creek outlet. Met Council will use this data to develop and calibrate a eutrophication -
model of the river.
• Continue to provide technical assistance to cities in preparing their local plans and
review plans submitted for conformance with the Commission's Watershed Plan.
• Encourage cities to implement regional ponding facilities wherever feasible to treat
stormwater runoff.
1-7
Metropolitan Council
II Working for the Region, Planning for the FYLture
June 21, 1995
Joy Tierney
Mayor
City Of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd
Plymouth MN 55447-1482
Dear Ms Tierney:
The Metropolitan Council staff has prepared a preliminary population and household
estimate (April 1, 1994) for your community. Enclosed for your review is a 1994
worksheet which includes 1990 Census background data.
The estimates are used by the Council to monitor population and household change in the
region. Last year the Council conducted a household size survey of 50,000 Metro Area
households to assist us in estimating the number of people in households. Our intent was
to measure current household sizes for single-family and multifamily units and then to
calculate changes since the 1990 census. We have incorporated the results into the
enclosed April 1994 estimates. We strive to provide estimates that are accurate and that
treat each municipality consistently. If you have questions about the estimates, please
contact Kathy Johnson at 291-6332. If you prefer to submit written comments, please
direct these to Ms. Johnson as well.
We would like to send the estimates to the State Department of Revenue by mid-July for
use in their local aids formulas. To do so, we need to receive your comments by July 7,
'1995. Tha.-ik you f;r ycu: prompt atteirtion to tris inatter.
Sincerely,
James Solem
Regional Administrator
JS/kj
Enclosure
230 East Fifth Street St. Paul, Minnesota 55101-1634 (612) 291-6359 Fax 291-6550 TDD/TTY 291-0904 Metro Info Line 229-3780
An Equal OPPortunity Employer
1990 Census Households 18,361
1994 Household Estimate 20,856
1990 Census Total Population 50,889
1990 Group Quarters Population 899
1990 Population in Households 49,990
1994 Population Estimate 57,391
1994 Group Quarters Population 829
1994 Population in Households 56,562
1990 Census Persons per Household 2.72
1994 Persons per Household 1 2.71
All numbers are as of April 1 of each year.
* This total includes 77 units listed in "other" housing in the 1990 Census data. The Census defines these units as those not fitting
the defined housing categories, such as houseboats, railroad cars, campers and vans. Since no information on "other" units is
available between censuses, for purposes of 1994 population and household estimation, these units have been allocated to the
single and multiple family categories. This was done based on persons per 'other" household and the ratio of single-family to
multifamily housing in the jurisdiction.
LAW OFFICES
WORST, PEARSON, LARSON, UNDERWOOD & MERTZ
A PARTNERSHIP INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL A550CIATIONS
ONE FINANCIAL PLAZA, SUITE 1100
120 SOUTH SIXTH STREET
A. THOMAS WURST. P.A. MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA 55402-1803
CURTIS A. PEARSON. P.A.
JAMES 0. LARSON. P.A. /]1 199(�(�
5
THOMAS F. UNDERWOOD. P.A.
CRAIG M. MERTZ Z
June
Mr. Jerry Dulgar, City Manager, City of Crystal c�^
Mr. Bill Joynes, City Manager, City of Golden Valley
Ms. Julie Deitte, City Clerk, City of Medicine Lake
Mr. David Sonnenberg, Director of Public Works, City of Minneapolis
Mr. David Childs, City Manager, City of Minnetonka
Mr. Dan Donahue, City Manager, City of New Hope
Mr. Dwight Johnson, City Manager, City of Plymouth
Mr. Fran Hagen, City Manager, City of Robbinsdale
Mr. Charlie Meyer, City Manager, City of St. Louis Park
Re: Wetland Conservation Act Legislation
Greetings:
TELEPHONE
(612) 338-4200
FAX NUMBER
8-2625
J0 2 2
,,195
n
e
At the June 15, 1995, meeting of the Bassett Creek Water Management
Commission, the Commission determined to write you and send you copies of a news
release which has been prepared in conjunction with the Board of Water and Soil
Resources. Our Commission has recently had a situation where we were frustrated
because of conflicts between water qualify standards as prepared by the Commission
and the regulations of the Wetland Conservation Act.
The Commission was not allowed to choose between the WCA and the water
qualify standards because the WCA is so inflexible. As a result of our Inability to balance
what was in the public Interest, we have had to grant a variance to a project which allows
for lower water quality standards for the project than are basically allowed under our
minimum standards.
Our Commission was frustrated because we felt that the water quality standards
of Medicine Lake are more important in this case then filling a small amount of wetland.
Unfortunately, the Act and the rules and regulations promulgated under the Act prohibited
any action other than the granting of a variance.
The attached news release establishes our position as a Commission and
WURST, PEARSON, LARSON, UNDERWOOD & M ERTZ
essentially the position of the Board of Water and Soil Resources. We would urge you
to confer with your legislators and encourage them to adopt amendments to the WCA
which will provide for more flexible standards and do away with some of the problems
which are pointed out in the news release. We hope you will join us in this effort to obtain
the support of our legislators and to get the WCA amended along the lines recognized
by BWSR and other responsible parties who are administering the Act.
%ncerely,
Curds A. Pearson
Attorney, Bassett Creek Water
Management Commission
CAP:lh
cc: Bassett Creek Commissioners
Ms. Pat Schutrop
For immediate release:
For further Information contact:
NEWS RELEASE
June 21, 1995
W. Peter Enck, Chairman, Bassett Creek Water
Management Commission - 541-8210
Len Kremer, Barr Engineering - 832-2781
Curt Pearson - 338-4200
NO CHANGES TO WETLANDS ACT APPROVED THIS YEAR
Despite nearly universal agreement that Minnesota's Wetland Conservation Act
(WCA) needs changes, the act will remain In its present form for at least another year.
The Legislature adjourned without approving a bill amending the act.
"Obviously, we're extremely disappointed," said Ron Harnack, executive director
of the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR), the state agency responsible for
administering the act. "We worked hard to get input from all the affected parties and
believed that we had a good compromise bill that would have made the law more
workable and still protected our resources," Hamack said.
W. Peter Enck, Chairman of the Bassett Creek Water Management Commission,
agreed with Harnack's assessment. "This bill would have gone a long way toward
addressing our concerns about the act," Enck said.
Since It was approved in 1991, developers, local governments and others have
complained that the WCA is too restrictive and bureaucratic. The law basically requires
that anyone wishing to drain or fill a wetland look at ways to avoid the wetland entirely or
at least minimize the Impact on the wetland. Wetland area that is drained or filled must
be replaced.
The compromise bill, which was supported by the BWSR and Covemor Ame
Carlson, failed because various special Interest groups focused on narrow, specific
Issues, rather than looking at the significant improvement that the bill would have made,
Hamack said. Some of those improvements Include:
the bill would have given local govemments a great deal more flexibility by
allowing them to develop their own wetland protection and management
plans based on the public value of wetlands, rather than just the amount of
acreage;
the bill would have reduced the replacement ratio for wetlands filled for state
road projects from 2:1 to 1:1 and provided for state -subsidized replacement
for road projects in counties with more than 80 percent of their presettlement
wetlands remaining;
the bili would have allowed for draining and filling of some additional
agricultural wetlands without replacement;
the bill would have required the state to pay any court-ordered claims against
a local govemment that was successfully sued by someone claiming that the
government had effectively "taken" his or her land; and
the bill would have increased the amount of wetland that could be drained
or filled for a project before requiring replacement; and
the bill would have streamlined the replacement plan process by eliminating
notice requirements and waiting periods before a replacement plan could be
approved.
However, the compromise bill would have stili provided a high degree of resource
protection and maintained the original act's commitment to a goal of no net loss of the
quantity, quality or biological diversity of the state's wetlands, Hamack said. The bill did
not loosen strict provisions about draining or filling shoreland wetlands --considered key
to preserving water quality --and also added new incentives to landowners to restore
previously drained wetlands and preserve existing wetlands.
The compromise legislation was a signii~icant Improvement from the current act,
and it is unfortunate that It failed, Enck agreed. "By not passing anything, we're in the
same situation we were in before," Enck said. "We were really hoping for some changes."
Enck indicated that the Bassett Creek WMO recently had a case where the
Commission had to grant a variance to the Commission's water quality standards
because of the inflexibility of the WCA. Enck stated that the Commission should have
had authority to determine the priority as to which program would serve the public
Interest. In this case, water quality in Medicine Lake took a back seat to an inflexible
regulation.
Hamack stressed that amendments to the Wetland Conservation Act are still a
priority. BWSR will work to bring together interested parties, including conservation
groups, the League of Minnesota Cities, developers, property interests, the Association
of Minnesota Counties, agricultural groups, and others, to address the few issues that
contributed to the failure to amend the act this year. Hamack said he hopes to have
compromise legislation worked out for early introduction and passage In the regular 19%
session or in a special session, If one is called.
One West Water Street
Suite 200
St. Paul, MN 55107
(612) 296-3767
Fax (612) 297-5615
Field offices
Northern Region:
394 S. Lake Avenue
Room 403
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 7234752
Fax (218) 7234794
3217 Bemidji Avenue N.
Bemidji, MN 56601
(218) 755-4235
Fax (218) 755-4201
217 S. 7th Street
Suite 202
Brainerd, MN 56401-3660
(218) 828-2383
Fax (218) 828.6036
Southern Region:
Highway 15 S.
Box 756
New Ulm, MN 56073
(507) 359.6074
Fax (507) 35946018
40 -16th Street SE
Suite A
Rochester, MN 55904
(507) 285-7458
Fax (507) 280-2875
Box 267
1400 E. Lyon Street
Marshall, MN 56258
(507) 537-6060
Fax (507) 537-6368
Metro Region:
One West Water Street
Suite 250
St. Paul, MN 55107
(612) 282-9969
Fax (612) 297-5615
An equal opportunity employer
Printed on recycled paper
DATE: June 5, 1995
TO: County Board Chair
Soil & Water Conservation District Chair
Watershed District President
City Council Chair
Town Board Chair
Water ement Organization Chair
FROM: • ck, Executive Director
SUBJECT: WETLAND CONSERVATION ACT LEGISLATION
I am extremely disappointed to say that the long-awaited legislative efforts
to address concerns with the Wetlands Conservation Act (WCA) failed on the
Senate floor on Thursday, May 25. I know that many of you, particularly
those who have put forth a strong effort to make the WCA work in its
present form, share this disappointment.
The proposal failed for a number of reasons, but most of all because a real
compromise had not been reached on a very few issues. Although general
agreement had been reached on the basic concepts, the "devil was in the
details," and unfortunately those last minute details did not have the support
of conservation groups, the urban wetlands coalition, the agencies, the
Governor or the Senate as a whole. In part, I believe that some individual
special interests led to the final impasse by focusing on narrow issues rather
than stepping back and considering the significant progress that the
compromise bill provided. The attachment is a summary of the changes that
were supported by all the groups, even though a very few wanted to see
more change.
Where do we go from here? I know of no one who does not believe that
legislative changes are needed in the Wetland Conservation Act. I believe
that it is necessary to continue to work towards achieving the changes. I
hope that after you and your peers and staff have had a chance to review
"what could have been" in some detail you will agree that the changes
reflected in this summary are very significant and would have addressed the
concerns raised during the first year of program administration. I also
realize that some of the problems stem from the rules rather than the law.
Therefore, we will be initiating the rule amendment process so that rule
changes can coincide with legislative changes next year.
June 5, 1995
Page Two
I will seek a broad-based coalition, representing local government (urban & rural), conservation
groups, farm organizations and builders\developers to endorse a package of changes that can be
passed early in the next session or in a special session. This, coupled with rule amendments,
would provide the state with a Wetland Conservation Act that will be effective, efficient, address
the diversity of the state and properly manage our wetland resources.
Please review and have your staff review the attached documents and provide me with additional
comments that you may have. I recognize the struggle that many of you have with some of the
elements of the program and sincerely believe that early next session we can achieve meaningful
changes. I look forward to hearing from you.
We were able to get some flexibility for banking relating to public transportation projects. We
are currently negotiating an agreement with the Minnesota Department of Transportation to
provide subsidized replacement credits for the counties with more than 80 percent of their
presettlement wetlands remaining. These credits would be the result of wetland restoration in
the prairie pothole area and allow the greater than 80 percent counties to purchase credits from
this bank at a subsidized rate. For example: if a greater than 80 percent county fills two acres
for a road project and needs two acres of mitigation, the local government could purchase the
two acres of mitigation from the bank credits for transportation projects at twice the value of
land adjacent to the project. I hope to have this element of the program available within two
months, and will advise the local governments accordingly.
Again, I hope to hear from you. Thank you for your continued efforts and support for the
necessary changes to the WCA.
Attachments: Summary of supported changes to the WCA
Assessment of supported changes to the WCA
News release relating to legislative action on WCA
rdhs:media.wca
CSN ►LT 1 yy/
Assessment of
BWSR Supported Changes o
Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act13M
June 1, 1995
The compromise changes supported by BWSR, agricultural organizations, conservation groups,
environmental groups, cities, many counties, builders organizations and realtors groups and the
Governor's office would have made the law more workable for all areas of the state, particularly
those areas with a high percentage of .wetlands remaining, while maintaining a high level of
resource protection.
Specifically, the supported compromise bill proposed the following:
* Rather than focusing strictly on the acreage amount of wetlands drained or filled in a
given situation, the proposed changes provided for the functional assessment of wetlands.
This means that wetlands would be replaced based upon the amount of actual benefits
they provide, rather than simply their size. This would help ensure the preservation of
the public values of the state's wetland and water resources.
* The proposed changes would have given local governments and citizens the opportunity
to approach wetland protection as a part of a comprehensive water management strategy.
To accomplish this, the Governor/Agency bill provided for the integration of wetland
protection measures with the local water planning process and local zoning ordinances.
* The legislation proposed to streamline the approval process for landowners proposing
projects that impact wetlands by enabling local governments to act in a reasonable time
frame. In addition, the proposed language moved closer to the goal of providing
landowners with "one -stop -shopping" for project information and decisions.
* The level of benefits wetlands provide often depends in part upon the adjacent land use.
By providing additional incentives to include vegetative buffers and water quality
treatment systems in these areas, this supported bill would have enhanced the water
quality and wildlife habitat benefits of wetlands.
* This supported bill proposed a strong state participation and oversight role in the
development, implementation and enforcement of local government comprehensive
wetland protection and management plans. This state presence is intended to ensure a
fairly administered law that maintains a high level of protection for the resource.
* By enhancing the notification and administrative appeals process, the Governor/Agency
supported bill provided an avenue for concerned citizens to participate in the
environmental review process to help ensure that the public maintains an active voice in
the management of their resources.
* This supported bill provided for additional incentives to local governments and
landowners to preserve high priority wetlands through enhancing a tax exemption
program. Under the program, landowners who have maintained wetlands (rather than
draining or filling them) would have access to some financial compensation for the value
of their land.
* A very small percentage of Minnesota wetlands are rare and sensitive calcareous fens.
These unusual wetlands contain many plants that cannot exist elsewhere. In addition,
calcarious fens are highly susceptible to disturbance and are nearly impossible to restore
once lost. The supported bill reaffirmed the state's commitment to protecting these
areas.
* One of the most successful means of protecting wetlands in the past has been through
providing landowner incentives to restore drained or altered wetlands or to preserve
existing wetlands. The bill built upon those successes by providing incentives to retain
restored wetlands that are eligible for drainage.
s:Govbill.wca
bwsr/j 5-27-95 10:40 a.m.
a
Gayle E. Burdick
'�gffgCF ♦�QQ�Q�l® Chapter First Vice-president
American Massage Therapy Association—Minnesota Chapter
Kathy Lueckert
Assistant City Manager
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Kathy:
Thank you for sending me a copy of your response to Yvonne
Oliver's letter. I had also spoken to her, and I think
she is now beginning to understand the process and the
issues. As you know, the regulation of massage therapy
triggers responses in people that make it a never-ending
process of education.
Because of your clear-sightedness and thoughtful, respectful
approach to regulating massage therapy in Plymouth, the
Minnesota Chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association
wishes to recognize your contribution to the advancement of
professional regulation for massage therapy.
I have a certificate that I would like to present to you
at your convenience -- perhaps sometime in July. I would
be happy to come to your office if your schedule is full.
Or we could meet for lunch or for coffee somewhere. Let me
know what would work best for you.
My personal thanks for your help during the past year in
Plymouth, and again, on behalf of the 300 massage therapists
I represent, our thanks.
Cordially,
C
G
wtte,Wz�
NORTHWEST METRO DRUG TASK FORCE
Cooperative drug enforcement by the Crystal, Golden Valley, Hopkins,
Plymouth, Robbinsdale, and St. Louis Park Police Departments.
6-14-95
Craig Gerdes, Director of Public Safety
Plymouth Police Department r` l,9s
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447-1482
Dear Craig: ti
/
As you are aware, the Northwest Metro Drug Task Force was conceiv_6d_i�2rrA
1988. We began with some innovative ideas, a modest grant, and an abundance of
stubborn resolve. Although we have endured some growing pains and an occasional
stumbling block, we have maintained a steady course toward our objectives. During our
seven year history, the Task Force has evolved into one of the most successful drug
enforcement units in the state. The Task Force has proven itself to be an effective
enforcement tool and an outstanding example of cooperative policing. Considering the
longevity of many inter -agency ventures, our seven years of existence may in itself be a
major triumph.
The Task Force has been a valuable resource uniquely tailored to the needs of the
participating cities and has certainly contributed to the safety of our communities. This was
clearly demonstrated during the recent operation that removed 659 pounds of high-grade
marijuana, 1.5 pounds of pure cocaine, and 1 pound of methamphetamine from our streets.
The Task Force has enabled us to provide localized enforcement that we can direct at
specific problems, rather than relying on outside agencies.
Although we have periodically recognized the efforts and accomplishments of the
Task Force, another important aspect of the Task Force's success has seldom been
recognized --the role of the chiefs. You and the other chiefs have continually- supported the
Task Force in the most positive ways. Even during difficult times when resources were at a
premium, you sacrificed to maintain your commitment. You allowed the Task Force the
flexibility to grow and evolve without choking it with bureaucratic red tape. You encouraged
the Task Force to learn and develop from its mistakes rather than imposing burdensome
restrictions. And most important, you have fostered an environment of compromise by
setting aside individual needs for the betterment of the Task Force.
On behalf of the Task Force members, I would like to express our appreciation for
you efforts and continuing support. You've made a difference.
Sincerely,
Lt. Richard Gautsch, Program Coordinator
cc: Dwight Johnson, City Manager
-4