HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 12-14-1995DECEMBER 14, 1995
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS ....
1. COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE FOR DECEMBER:
DECEMBER 19 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
City Council Chambers
JANUARY 9 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
City Center Lunchroom, Lower Level
2. NEW COUNCH24FAIBER ORIENTATION. 2ND SESSION, THURSDAY,
DECEMBER 14, 5:30 P.M., Medicine Lake Meeting Room, City Center, upper level.
3. PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION, THURSDAY,
DECEMBER 14, 7:00 P.M., Council Chambers.
4. CITY EMPLOYEES HOLIDAY LUNCHEON, MONDAY, DECEMBER 18, 11:00
A.M. - 1:00 P.M, Radisson Hotel. City offices will be closed during this time.
Attached is the public notice for the closing.
5. CITY OF PLYMOUTH BLOOD DRIVE, MONDAY, DECEMBER 18, 1:00 P.M. -
4:00 P.M., Public Works Parking Lot. To schedule an appointment, contact Judy,
509-5071.
6. METRO MEETINGS - The weekly calendar of meetings for the Metropolitan Council
and its advisory commissions is attached. (M-6)
7. MEETING CALENDARS - December and January meeting calendars are attached.
(M-7)
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MIMO
December 14, 1995
Page 2
`TIO1I
1. DEPARTMENT REPORTS
a. Employee Recognition in the Building Inspections Department. (I -la)
2. NEWS ARTICLES. RELEASES, PUBLICATIONS, ETC.
a. Plymouth Builder, City newsletter, in two additions: for construction workers and for
plumbers. (I -2a)
b. Letter from Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin regarding meetings
for a county housing policy. (I -2b)
c. December, 1995 Metro Digest of the Metropolitan Council. (I -2c)
d. December 8, 1995 issue of the League of Minnesota Cities Cities Bulletin. (I -2d)
e. Notice from the Met Council of a change in the criteria to evaluate the Federal
Surface Transportation Program and the Transportation Enhancement Program. (I -
2e)
f. Notice from the Met Council of Plymouth's participation in the Local Housing
Incentives Account Program of the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act. (I -2f)
3. MINUTES
a. Plymouth Human Rights Commission meeting minutes of December 7, 1995. (I -3a)
4. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS POLICY - CORRESPONDENCE
a. Letter to Parks and Recreation Director Eric Blank from Mark Youngblood,
expressing opposition to further trail development in his neighborhood. (I -4a)
b. Response to Jerry Chmielewski from Senior Appraiser Jan Olsson, addressing his
concerns about the property tax system. Attached is Chmielewski's original letter. (I -
4b)
c. Response to John Miller from Finance Director Dale Hahn, concerning increased
property taxes. Attached is Miller's original letter. (I -4c)
d. Response to David Talen from Public Works Director Fred Moore concerning the
completion of Xenium Lane between 37th Avenue and County Road 9. Attached is
Talen's original letter. (I -4d)
e. Letter to Mayor Tierney from Susan Olson expressing concerns about building
inspections. Attached is Assistant City Manager Kathy Lueckert's acknowledgment.
(1-4e)
A status report on all correspondence is attached.
5. CORRESPONDENCE
a. Letter to Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt from Bruce Malkerson of
the Downtown Plymouth Property Owners Group. (I -5a)
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MIMO
December 14, 1995
Page 3
b. Letter from Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority Commissioner David
Crane. (I -5b)
c. Letter from Kevin Christian expressing opposition to toll roads in the state.
d. Letter from Tiffane Ferrer and West Side Residents of Dunkirk Lane expressing
opposition to the proposed trail extension south of Highway 55 on Dunkirk Lane. (I -
Dwight Johnson
City Manager
T RO 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: December 8, 1995
WEEK OF: December 11 - December 15, 1995
METROPOLITAN COUNCIL
Joint Meeting: Community Development and Environment Committees - Monday, Dec. 11, 12 (noon),
Room IA. The committees will consider the Elm Creek Cluster planning agreement.
Community Development Committee- Monday, Dec. 11, 1:45 p.m., Room IA. The committee will consider
a Livable Communities update.
Blueprint Blue Ribbon Task Force - Monday, Dec. 11, 2:30 p.m. or immediately following the Community
Development Committee, Room IA. The task force will consider: comprehensive plan review guidelines; report
of the Growth Management Work Group --Growth Guidelines; and other business.
Environment Committee - Tuesday, Dec. 12, 4 p.m., Chambers. The committee will consider: authorization
to file condemnation petition - Lino Lakes interceptor; approval of 1996 emergency contractor list; authorization
to award and execute a contract for Metropolitan Wastewater Treatment Plant full-scale centrifuge demonstration
project; authorization to execute an amendment to professional services, Metropolitan Council Environmental
Services contract C-2595 for treatment plant secondary treatment improvements, Step III construction support;
authorization to negotiate and award a professional services contract for Southeast Regional Wastewater
Treatment Plant, Step -1 facility planning; approval of positive variance criteria; Sewer Rate Task Force
recommendations; progress report on Blue Lake/Seneca solids project; and other business.
Housing and Redevelopment Authority Committee - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 8:30 a.m., Room IA. The
committee will consider: public meeting on Local Preference Policy; consideration of Local Preference Policy;
Livable Communities update; action planning; conforming rule -policy options, process and timelines for
implementation; Hollman v Cisneros consent decree; and other business.
PUBLIC MEETING: On Metro HRA Adoption of Local Preference Policy for Use in Section 8 Rental
Assistance Program Participant Selections (as part of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority Advisory
Committee meeting) - Wednesday, Dec. 13, 8:30 a.m., Room IA.
Providers Advisory Committee - Thursday, Dec. 14, 10:30 a.m., Room IA. The committee will consider-
Metropolitan
onsiderMetropolitan Council 1996 legislative agenda; ADA plan update; transit capital funding request process; Transit
Redesign; and other business.
(CANCELED) Land Transportation Committee - Thursday, Dec. 14,130 p.m., Room 2A.
Legislative Coordinating Committee - Thursday, Dec. 14, 2:30 p.m., Room IA. The committee will consider:
legislative initiatives for Committee of the Whole; legislative package update; calendar review; and other
business.
Special Finance Committee Meeting- Thursday, Dec. 14, 4 p.m, Room 2A. The committee will consider-
approval
onsiderapproval of 1995 Metropolitan Agencies personnel, ethical practices and communications activities report for
transmittal to Minnesota Legislature; delegation of authority with respect to real property matters to the Regional
Administrator, authorization for general counsel to take and initiate legal action to clear title to real property of
real property interests owned by the Metropolitan Council; closed meetings of the Finance Committee to discuss
labor negotiations issues; closed meetings of the Finance Committee to discuss pending or imminent litigation
involving personal injury and workers compensation claims; approval of 1996 Sewer Service Availability Charge
(SAC) rates; authorization to purchase replacement vehicles utilizing state or county contracts; authorization to
close Wyatt Contract C-2803 issued for employee flex benefit processing; approval of positive variance criteria;
approval of upgrade to computer equipment and software —Environmental Services and Regional Administration
and Planning; and update to Metropolitan Council's non -presented plan. The next portion of meeting may be
closed to the public pursuant to 471.705, subdivision IA to discuss labor negotiation issues. The meeting will
be re -opened to the public following labor negotiations discussion to consider approval of amendment to change
benefit contribution level in Metropolitan Council Non -Represented Plan.
Special Metropolitan Council Meeting - Thursday, Dec. 14, 5 p.m. or immediately following the Council
meeting, Room 2A. This meeting may be closed to the public pursuant to MN Statutes section 471.705,
subdivision ld (e) for discussion of litigation issues.
Special Metropolitan Council Meeting - Thursday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m. or immediately Special Council meeting
at 5 p.m., Room 2A. The council will consider the legislative package.
TENTATIVE MEETINGS THE WEEK OF DECEMBER 18 THROUGH DECEMBER 22, 1995
Transportation Committee - Monday, Dec. 18,4 p.m., Chambers.
Metropolitan Airports Commission Informational Meeting on Dual Track Environmental Impact
Statement documenting the environmental consequences on Minneapolis/St. Paul airport development,
a new airport, and no action alternative - Tuesday, Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m., Mendota Heights Hall.
Chair's Small Group Breakfast Meeting - Wednesday, Dec. 20, 8 a.m., Sheraton Midway, Bigelow's, I-94 at
Hemline, St. Paul.
Transportation Advisory Board - Wednesday, Dec. 20,2 p.m., Chambers.
Metropolitan Airports Commission Informational Meeting on Dual Track Environmental Impact
Statement documenting the environmental consequences on Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport development,
a new airport, and no action alternative - Wednesday, Dec. 20, 7 p.m., Bloomington City Hall.
Metropolitan Council - Thursday, Dec. 21, 4 p.m., Chambers.
Committee of the Whole - Thursday, Dec. 21, 5 p.m. or immediately following the Council meeting, Room IA.
Public Hearing: On Affordable and Life -cycle Housing Goals Agreement Negotiated with Twin Cities f
Area Communities Participating in the Metropolitan Livable Communities Program - Thursday, Dec. 21, n
6 p.m., Chambers. f v
The Metropolitan Council is located at Means Park Center, 230 E. Fifth St., St. Paul. Meeting times and agenda
are subject to change. For more information or confirmation of meetings, call 291-6447, (T.D./291-0904). Call
the Metro Information Line at 229-3780 for news of Council actions and coming meetings.
METROPOLITAN SPORTS FACILITIES CODIIVIISSION
Capital Improvements Committee - Thursday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m., Commission Conference Room. The
committee will consider: approval plans for banner and graphics addition; award contracts for --1996 Twins
curtain project, 1996 restroom and production office addition project, and 1995 floor scrubber replacement
project; and other business.
The Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission office is located at 900 South Fifth 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 Judy Sobers, 335-
3310.
METROPOLITAN AIRPORTS COM3IISSION
Metropolitan Airports Commission Informational Meeting on Dual Track Environmental Impact
Statement documenting the environmental consequences on Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport
development, a new airport, and no action alternative - Monday, Dec. 11, 8 p.m., Prescott, WI City Hall.
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
December 1995
___�onday Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
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Saturday
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3 4 5
6
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8
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7:00 PM CHARTER 7:00 PM COUNCIL M&K�
7:00 PM (If Needed) Truth
7:30 PM HUMAN RIGHTS
COMMISSION - ETING - Council
Annual Mtg, Public Cham bers #?
Safety Training Rm
in Taxation - Hearing
Contr d - Council
Chambers
COMMISSION - Pub. Safety
Training Room
10 11
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6:00 PM CITY COUNCIIA,"
SPECIAL MEETING �''
Bass Lake Meeting Room;
7:00 PM PLANNING COMMIS
SION- Council Chambers
7:00 PM PRAC - Council
Chambers
City Ctr Lower Level
7:00 PM ENV. QUALITY COMM. -
Bass Lake Mill Rm, Lower Level
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11:00 AM - 1:00 PM City
Offices Closed - Employees
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7:00 PM COUNCU;N EE71Nf
" Ceaaep Chaauhara- , . ,
7:00 PM PACT - Hadley Lake
Cont Rm. (Lower Level)
7:00 PM HRA - Council
Chambers
Holiday Luncheon
7:00 PM PLANNING CO-
MMISSION, Bass Lake
Room, Lower Level
24 26 27 28 29 30
C1]I7Stmas - City Offices 7:00 PM BOARD OF ZONING -
Closed Council Chambers
31 November 95 January 96
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revised 12/14/95
® OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS
January 1996
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
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New Year's Day City
7:30 PM HUMAN RIGHTS
Offices Closed
COMMISSION - Pub. Safety
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Training Room
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7:00 PM ENV. QUALITY COMM. -
7!00 PM PLANNING COMMIS•
7;00 PM PRAC - Council
Bass Lake Mtg Rm, Lower Level
SION - COU-11 Chambers
Chambers
7:00 PM COUNCIL MEET- i
ING-CityCenter
Lunchroom � r�, ,;.
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Martin Luther King, Jr. -
7:00 PM PACT - Hadley Lake
City Offices Closed
Cont. Rm. (Lower Level)
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7.00 PM COUNCIL MEET
�NG-City
7.00 PM PLANNING COMMIS
7:00 PM BOARD OF ZONING -
SION- CouncilChambers
Council Chambers
Lunchr00M
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mber 95 Febmaty 96
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revised 12/14/95
M,
DATE: November 27, 1995
TO: Anne Hurlburt, Community Development Director
FROM: Joe Ryan, Building Officials
SUBJECT: Employee Recognition
The purpose of this memo is to inform you of some recent conversations I've had with
customers who are pleased with the service provided to them by employees of our
department. They were as follows:
• Mr. Dave Rod (Job Superintendent, Lundgren Bros) appreciative of the help and
assistance provided to him by Carlys and Ranelle at the front service counter and on
the phone.
• Karen Henneman was thankful for the assistance provided to her by Arnie
Rasmusson and Chris Land in both the plan review and inspection process. Ms.
Henneman obtained a building permit to move a home into the City. Considering
that she was not very experienced, a great deal of hand holding was required on our
part.
• Mr. John Levander (Caliber Development) Mr. Levander thanked me for the
promptness shown by Don Munson in expediting the building permit issuance
process, as well as inspection services provided by Don Kilian on November 10th
which was a recognized holiday for the City Center offices.
Please see me should you have any further questions.
annel.doc
V .�✓� e.( �) L� �i `f I C.%:moi "
Plymouth Bul"Ider�""
A newsletter from the City of Plymouth Inspections Divison, December 1995
Starting in 1996, City will issue
water meters as part of plumbing permits
Over the years, our office has re-
ceived numerous requests from
sewer and water contractors to con-
sider issuing of water meters with
plumbing permits rather than
sewer and water permits.
The major concern of those peo-
ple requesting this change was
that the sewer and water contrac-
tor is not responsible for install-
ing the water meter, yet must
deliver the water meter to the gen-
eral contractor or the plumber.
We listened, and took action! Be-
ginning January 1, 1996 the issu-
ance of water meters will now be
part of a plumbing permit rather
than a sewer and water permit.
Please inform your personnel or
subcontractors of this change.
Revised plumbing and
sewer/water applications are en-
closed for your use and distribu-
tion. Please dispose of outdated
forms.
Met Council considering increase to SAC
The Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) Division is
recommending an increase to the sewer availability charge (SAC) rates for
1996. Based on its recommendation, the base SAC unit would increase
from $850 to $900 beginning January 1, 1996. If the recommended rate
is approved, permits issued after the close of business on December 29,
1995 will be subject to the increased rate. We collect the charge for
MCES — it is not a City charge.
Permits for sewage disposal systems will
require copy of license with application
Effective March 31, 1996, any individual or business who wishes to con-
duct site evaluations, design, install, pump, or inspect individual sewage
treatment systems will be required to provide our office with a copy of
their state license prior to the processing of a permit application for such
work. Any questions about licensing requirements should be directed to
the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency at 296-7248.
City to offer
extended hours
starting in January
f getting to city offices before
they close at 4:30 p.m. has made
it difficult for you to conduct
city business, your task will get easier
in 1996. As of Jan. 2, Plymouth city
offices will offer extended hours on
Tuesdays evenings. City Hall and
the Public Safety Building will be
open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Hours on Mondays, Wednesdays,
Thursdays and Fridays will remain
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Extended hours will be offered on
a trial basis through Aug. 30. You
can expect to conduct basic busi-
ness with the City during the ex-
tended hours. However, if you
need to speak to a specific individ-
ual, without having made a prior
appointment, you may find that
the staff member is not available.
This is due to the fact that the ex-
tended hours are being accommo-
dated without adding overtime
pay. Instead, some city staff mem-
bers will rotate through staggered
work schedules which may run
late one day and end earlier an-
other day.
Plumbing contractors must ensure
proper installation of water meters
Before receiving final plumbing
inspection approval, plumbing
contractors must ensure that
outside remote water meters are
properly installed and sealed.
This requirement was adopted
because city staff have encoun-
tered an increased number of
improperly installed water me-
ters and outside remote readers
Details on this are included on
the enclosed announcement ti-
tled "Attention Plumbers."
Seasons greeting from all of us
Building Official, Joe Ryan
509-5431
Assistant Building Official, Don Munson
509-5436
Plans Examiner, Chris Land
509-5441
Plumbing Inspector, Don Kilian
509-5438
Building Inspector, Arnie R.asmusson
509-5437
Building Inspector, Bill Tonn
509-5439
Building Inspector, Karleen Lutter
509-5435
Building Inspector, Glenn McLearen
509-5434
Inspection Scheduling 509-5449
Building Inspection Division 509-5430
How are we doing?
Let us know
Next time you are in to see us,
take a minute to let us know how
we are doing. Fill out a Customer
Service Card. Cards are located at
our service counter.
Plymouth Builder
The Plymouth Builder is publish-
ed by the City of Plymouth. By
sharing information with contrac-
tors and developers in the peri-
odic news letter, the City (if
Plymouth Building Inspection Di-
vision hopes to better serve the de-
velopment community and, in the
process, help readers maintain and
improve the quality of work they
offer Plymouth citizens.
Let us hear from you. If you have
any questions or comments, call
Building Official at 509-5431 or
drop us a note at City of Ply-
mouth, 3400 Plymouth Boulevard,
Plymouth, MN 55447.
C 10
Plymouth
Bui'lderl�17"
A newsletter from the City of Plymouth Inspections Divison, December 1995
Starting in 1996, City will issue
water meters as part of plumbing permits
Over the years, our office has received numerous requests from sewer and
water contractors to consider issuing of water meters with plumbing per-
mits rather than sewer and water permits.
The major concern of those people requesting this change was that the
sewer and water contractor is not responsible for the installation of the
water meter, yet must provide delivery of the water meter either to the
general contractor or the inside plumber.
We listened, and took action! Beginning January 1, 1996 the issuance of
water meters will now be part of a plumbing permit rather than a sewer
and water permit. Please inform your personnel or subcontractors of this
change. We hope it results in better service to our customers.
Met Council considering increase to SAC
The Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) Division is
recommending an increase to the sewer availability charge (SAC) rates for
1996. Based on its recommendation, the base SAC unit would increase
from $850 to $900 beginning January 1, 1996. If the recommended rate
'is approved, permits issued after the close of business on December 29,
1995 will be subject to the increased rate. We collect the charge for
MCES — it is not a City charge.
Permits for sewage disposal systems will
require copy of license with application
Effective March 31, 1996, any individual or business who wishes to con-
duct site evaluations, design, install, pump, or inspect individual sewage
treatment systems will be required to provide our office with a copy of
their state license prior to the processing of a permit application for such
work Any questions about licensing requirements should be directed to
the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency at 296-7248.
New fee
schedule takes
effect in 1996
arlier this year the Ply-
mouth City Council
adopted the building
permit fee schedule published
in the 1994 edition of the Uni-
form Building Code (UBC).
The new fee schedule will go
into effect in two phases.
Phase one begins January 1,
1996.The first phase repre-
sented 50% of the increase
for all building permits is-
sued after January 1, 1996.
The second phase takes effect
on January 1, 1997. It repre-
sents the remaining 50% in-
crease. This will be the total
adoption of the 1994 UBC
fee schedule.
Permits issued through close
of business on December 29,
1995 will be subject to the cur-
rent fee schedule. Enclosed is
a copy of the adopted build-
ing fee schedule for the years
1996 and 1997.
City offices to offer extended hours in '96
f getting to city offices before
they close at 4:30 p.m. has made
it difficult for you to conduct
city business, your task will get easier
in 1996. As of Jan. 2, Plymouth city
offices will offer extended hours on
Tuesdays evenings. City Hall and
the Public Safety Building will be
open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Hours on Mondays, Wednesdays,
Thursdays and Fridays will remain
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Extended hours will be offered on
a trial basis through Aug. 30. You
can expect to conduct basic busi-
ness with the City during the ex-
tended
xtended hours. However, if you
need to speak to a specific individ-
ual, without having made a prior
appointment, you may find that
the staff member is not available.
This is due to the fact that the ex-
tended hours are being accommo-
dated without adding overtime
pay. Instead, some city staff mem-
bers will rotate through staggered
work schedules which may run
late one day and end earlier an-
other day.
The extended hours resulted from
a citizen survey which the City
conducted last spring. Survey re-
spondents showed a preference for
having later hours at City Hall
and the Public Safety Building.
Seasons greeting from all of us
Building Official, Joe Ryan
509-5431
Assistant Building Official, Don Munson
509-5436
Plans Examiner, Chris Land
509-5441
Plumbing Inspector, Don Kilian
509-5438
Building Inspector, Arnie Rasmusson
509-5437
Building Inspector, Bill Tonn
509-5439
Building Inspector, Karleen Lutter
509-5435
Building Inspector, Glenn McLearen
509-5434
Inspection Scheduling 509-5449
Building Inspection Division 509-5430
How are we doing?
Let us know
Next time you are in to see us,
take a minute to let us know how
we are doing. Fill out a Customer
Service Card. Cards are located at
our service counter.
Plymouth Builder
The Plymouth Builder is publish-
ed by the City of Plymouth. By
sharing information with contrac-
tors and developers in the peri-
odic news letter, the City of
Plymouth Building Inspection Di-
vision hopes to better serve the de-
velopment community and, in the
process, help readers maintain and
improve the quality of work they
offer Plymouth citizens.
Let us hear from you. If you have
any questions or comments, call
Building Official at 509-5431 or
drop us a note at City of Ply-
mouth, 3400 Plymouth Boulevard,
Plymouth, MN 55447.
DECEMBER IT
f.
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i
,t
ti-zy
EF re e
3405 East Medicine Lake Blvd., Plymouth, MN 55441
Telephone: Business (612) 559-9008 • Crisis 559-4945 TDD
Community Forum:
The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children
................................................................
he Domestic Violence
Prevention Network of
Suburban Hennepin County
presented a thought-provoking
community forum on the "Impact of
Domestic Violence on Children."
The forum was held at North
Hennepin Community College on
Thursday evening, October 12.
Jeanne Raffesberger, a survivor of
battering, and board member of the
Minnesota Department of Correc-
tions Battered Women's Advisory
Council gave the keynote address.
Greg Sicheneder, a supervisor/
therapist with Family and Children's
Services Youth Diversion Program,
moderated a panel presentation
which included comments from
Nancy Meyerhoff, Phyllis
Wilderscheidt, jean Holloway,
Eileen Hudon, and Bee Jimson.
After a question and answer
period, attendees met with public
officials for informal discussions,
and browsed at information tables
while enjoying refreshments.
An introspective look at the
worlds of children who have
witnessed or experienced domestic
abuse made a dramatic impact on
participants. The presentation of
"The Artwork of Children Who Have
Witnessed Domestic Violence" was
created by a diverse group of
children involved in various service
programs throughout the metro
area. These children learn how to
express their feelings through art,
while learning that domestic
violence is not their fault. It was
truly an inspiring presentation.
United Way's
"Week of Caring"
Seven hard-working souls from
Ryan Construction spent much of a
muggy, overcast day in August at
Home Free as part of the annual
United Way Week of Caring
initiative. Their timing was superb,
since Home Free and Missions Inc.
were preparing for our 15th and
100th anniversary celebrations,
respectively.
Ryan Construction employees
spent a full day cutting back weeds
and overgrowth along Home Free
Shelter's shoreline. Our gazebo
glimmered after they removed the
weeds, planted autumn mums, and
gave the gazebo a fresh coat of
paint.
Part of the beauty of the Week of
Caring is that it's really "the gift that
keeps on giving." Recently, Ryan
Construction called to see about
donating cold weather gear for the
women and children who will be
with us during the winter months.
Sounds like the folks at Ryan
understand this year's campaign
theme—"a community that shares,
shows it cares."
Left: Volunteers from Ryan construction
showcase their hard work.
=INSIDE THIS ISSUE -
Volume
a ;.
Biennial Report ...................................................... 2
Intervention News ................................................
3
Home Free Needs,
Children's Program Highlights .............................
4
Adopt -a -Room Project and Volunteers,
Recognition Celebration .......................................
5
Volunteer and Donor Appreciation ..................
6-7
The Facts, What is Domestic Violence? ................ 8
From the Book Shelf .............................................
9
A Volunteer Voice ................................................
10
Exciting Ways to Volunteer at Home Free,
Volunteer Opportunities Guide .........................11
04N=� - ----
%0 printed on recyded paper
Home Free Services
All Services are Free
and Confidential
Year in Review
24-hour crisis line with information 24-hour crisis intervention, legal ad -
and referrals. Short term emergency vocacyand supportservices in Golden
shelter for battered women and their Valley, New Hope, Crystal, Plymouth,
children. Please call 559-4945 (TDD). and Brooklyn Park. Call 545-7080.
Home Free Marks Its 15 Year Anniversary
.........................................................
eptember 15th marked Home
Free's 15 -year anniversary. In
addition, our parent organiza-
tion, Missions Inc., turned 100 years
old this fall. So, on October 20th we
remembered both with a grand,
agency -wide open house celebra-
tion. The event presented an
opportunity to show off the new
multi -cultural artwork purchased
this year for the shelter. The day's
activities included a dedication
ceremony for a newly built nursing
home. The festivities were later
capped off with a beautiful fire-
works display over the lake.
Several new staff were hired over
the last few months. A new program
manager, Mary Brent and new legal
advocates, Gita M., Carol G., and
Lori H. joined the Programs staff.
Brigitte Chomilo, Dawn Erickson,
and Delores McCool are our new
children's advocates. And former
staffer, Nita Quinn returned as the
development manager. I am so
happy they are all here.
Mary Monteon, Director
111itIIiIgillklh
Services Provided
At Home Free, individual and systems advocacy is the core of our work. Services include: emergency housing that is handicap accessible; a
24-hour crisis and information line equipped
with a 'ISD for communication with callers who are deaf or hearing impaired; information
and
referral; education/support groups and peer counseling; community education and training; volunteer services; Domestic Assault Interven-
tion Projects; and individual,
community,
and systems advocacy.
Emergency Shelter
{JT_Rm
REM
Women housed
250
268 Occupancy rate
100%
105%
Children housed
308
349 Average length of stay
19 days
18 days
Shelter requests
1,584
1,920 Info/support calls
1,370
1,735
Community Advocacy
Phone Contact
Face to Face
Requests for info/support
357
496 Direct service
107
177
Home visits
34
26
Protection orders
40
189
Intervention Projects
Advocacy
Police Response
Home visits
78
276 Arrests
205
644
Phone advocacy
178
578 Complaints
57
402
Jail visits
22
2 Court Response
Protection orders
96
269 Guilty pleas
129
488
Support group
152
129 Continued for dismissal
13
155
Info/support calls
471
368 Dismissed
10
89
Volunteer hours
11,627
13,750 Pending court action
106
124
Volunteer and Community Education Programs
Attendance at
Volunteers (unduplicated)
89
89
presentations, professional
Volunteer hours
14,009
17,268
training and community
meetings
3,512
2,900
2
Advocacy and support for battered
women in Northwest and West
Hennepin. Please call 545-7128 dur-
ing business hours on weekdays.
Intervention News
Free support groups for battered
women are held weekly in the North-
west Hennepin area. Free child care is
available. Call 545-7080 or 545-7128.
Donations: Call Linda at 559-9008.
Speakers forcommunitygroups, call
Nita at 545-7072. Volunteer and in-
ternships: Call Maura at 545-7072.
Our Goal: Protect the Victim and Stop Violence
.........................................................
any people have asked:
what is an intervention
project? Simply, it is a
community response to domestic
assault which involves combining
and coordinating the efforts of law
enforcement, the criminal justice
system, medical and mental health
professionals, and battered
women's advocates.
Why is such a response neces-
sary? Because domestic violence is,
unfortunately, a very real phenom-
enon. The Department of Correc-
tions estimates that 132,000 women
are beaten by their partners in
Minnesota each year. In addition,
domestic violence, far from being a
simple issue, is a complex problem.
Can one concerned group end it?
No. We believe the responsibility to
end this violence belongs to the
community—and the community is
all of us. Hence, the birth of an
intervention project.
Home Free's Domestic Abuse
Intervention Project (DAIP) is
currently operating in the cities of
Brooklyn Park, Crystal, Golden
Valley, New Hope, and Plymouth.
We receive funding from these
cities which enables us to provide
services to their residents.
Our combined community goal is
to protect the victim and stop the
violence. Our efforts have been
focused in two essential areas: law
enforcement and prosecution.
Home Free, participating law
enforcement agencies, and city
prosecutors have worked diligently
to develop aggressive arrest and
prosecution policies that hold
batterers accountable for the
violence, as well as provide safety to
victims.
The projects are the kind of
collaboration that actually trans-
forms intervention efforts into
prevention ones. In working with
police and prosecution to establish
strong and well -monitored policies,
a clear message is sent that we will
not tolerate violence in our commu-
nities. We continue to meet with
these groups on a regular basis to
fine-tune policies and provide
mutual feedback.
In order to operate the projects,
Home Free staff and volunteer
advocates are on-call 24 hours a day
to respond to police referrals and
provide immediate support and
information by phone, home, or
hospital visit. Advocates also
monitor the criminal court system.
They work closely with the prosecu-
tors in providing information,
insuring appropriate prosecution,
sentencing, and probation.
Home Free currently offers
women support groups with
childcare in the cities of Brooklyn
Park, Crystal, Medina, and Ply-
mouth. We also do educational
presentations to area schools, social
service agencies, and community
groups.
Our 1995 year-end statistics will
be published in the next newsletter.
Based on 1994 statistics and 9
months in 1995, we have already
seen an increase. In 1994, we
monitored and provided advocate
services in 1,081 criminal court
cases. By the end of 3rd quarter,
1995, this figure reached 1,022.
As we wrap up 1995, we are
extremely grateful for the collabora-
tive community relationships that
have been developed. We offer a
special thank you to law enforce-
ment and city prosecutors, who
work with us in helping to end
domestic violence. We also wish to
express our appreciation to all staff
and volunteers who are the essen-
tial pillars of the project.
Mary Brent, Community Program Mgr.
COMMUNITY EDUCATION PRESEN' I
JOIN THE THOUSANDS!! During the past decade, thousands of people have attended
presentations to learn more about Home Free and domestic violence. Now we want to
add you to this group of informed and concerned community members. Home Free has
staff members and volunteers who can provide information on battering as well as the
services we provide at the shelter. Invite us to your organization, religious group, school
or civic group. To schedule a presentation, please call Nita Quinn at 545-7072.
HOMEFree/December 1995
3 ��
A
2 b
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ii IMM ME ii ME ME �i
ME No ME ME WE ME 0
Share Your Holiday Spirit—Gifts needed for the holiday season:
General Needs
Women
money
nightgowns
sweat suits (in
blow dryers
gift certificates
slippers
various sizes)
toiletries
gift wrapping
robes
sweaters
(perfume,
bows
underwear
earrings and
powder,
tape
hats & gloves
other small
bubble bath)
blankets
wallets
jewelry
1995 Children's Program Highlights
Parenting Groups at Home Free
he Children's Program offers
two parenting groups for
residents of Hone Free. We
believe it is important to offer these
groups so women can discuss
parenting issues, get support, and
learn about how their children may
have been affected by the violence
in their homes. For many years we
have had a public health nurse from
the Metropolitan Visiting Nurse
Association come to the shelter
once a week. The nurse leads group
sessions on parenting, health, and
women's issues. Each week she
discusses topics that residents have
selected from a long list. Topics
include: discipline, childhood
illnesses, unhealthy boundaries,
feelings, development, effects of
violence, affirmations, resources,
problem solving, and functional and
dysfunctional families. The group
provides women with an opportu-
nity to gain knowledge and increase
their parenting skills.
Home Free's second parenting
group began last February and is
provided by Robbinsdale School
District 281 Early Childhood Family
Education (SCFE). Each week two
facilitators lead a group for moms
and their children. Moms get the
opportunity to spend time doing
activities with their children, such as
singing songs, dancing, playing
games, telling stories, and working
on craft projects. Mothers also
spend part of the time without their
children to discuss parenting issues
such as discipline, safety, develop-
ment, stress, and other topics. The
group also becomes a resource for
mothers who are new to the area.
Women who move out of the
shelter now know how they and
their children can participate in
community-based ECFE programs.
—Kari Iverson, Lead Children's Advocate
1 *01 1
0 0*0*000 9000000009*0000900
4
Teenagers
sweat suits
cosmetics
socks
sports gear
earmuffs
Walkman/radios
gloves
(inexpensive)
sweaters
hair ornaments
teenage "toys"
underwear
Children's HoUday Needs
Home Free houses about 25
children ranging in age from
newbom up to 17. We always have
needs for the children, especially
during the holidays. Here are some
ideas for items the Children's
Program is seeking to make the
holidays special for families at
Home Free.
• Baby toys, baby care supplies
• New toddler toys, learning toys,
coloring books and crayons, cars,
dolls, housekeeping toys, games,
puzzles, art and craft kits
(no violent toys)
• Books, book bags, school
supplies
• Hats and mittens, sweat suits,
clothes, pajamas, slippers, socks
and underwear (all sizes)
Each year we transform our play-
room into a "gift/toy shop" for
moms to choose special gifts for
their children. We also schedule
groups that come in and share
holiday traditions with the children
and women in the shelter. Decem-
ber is a busy, but fun month for the
children's advocates.
.,Ib
Adopt -a -Room Project: Thanks for keeping our shelter cheerful & homey!
Room A: was redone by volunteers
from the Hennepin County Medical
Center's Newborn Intensive Care
Unit.
Room C: Received a facelift from
the Normandale Business and
Professional Women's Group.
Room I: Was redone by the
Women's Council of Realtors.
Adopt -a -Room Volunteers
Ann Marie Arens
Kelsey Foy
Pat Isensee
Nancy Argo
Shelly Foy
Jim Jeffery
Ruth Bergene
Joanne Gibson
Luverne Kintop
Judy Betts
Sadie Hawkins
Lori Knight
Cathy Cassiday
Sandra Henke
Christian Lira
Ann Ducharme
Lyn Hinter-
Hale Lira
Laurie Farrell
meister
Patricia Lara
Volunteer Recognition Celebration
"Remember my Name" was Event's Theme
he 1995 annual recognition
dinner for Home Free
volunteers was set amidst the
late October colors at French
Regional Park in Plymouth. Our
theme matched that of National
Domestic Violence Awareness
Month—"Remember My Name."
Nearly 50 volunteers and staff
turned out to celebrate the thou-
sands of hours of service given by
incredibly dedicated advocates for
battered women. Although our total
of volunteer hours for 1995 is not
compiled yet, our total for 1994 was
17,268!
Upon arrival, everyone had the
opportunity to help create an
artistic memorial to honor battered
women. A huge banner with the
"Remember My Name" logo was
hanging for everyone to trace their
hand and write in their name and
the name of a woman they've
worked with who left a lasting
impression. It now hangs in the
Community Programs office. We
invite women and children who
come into the office to add their
own hand prints to the memorial if
they wish.
HOMEFree/December 1995
During the recognition event,
members of our Advisory Commit-
tee served up a tasty Italian dinner
and dessert. Afterward, volunteers
were recognized with white cloth
ball -caps bearing the "Hands are
Not for Hitting" logo. Through a
generous donation from Super
Valu, everyone went home with a
gift box that included a sampling of
their products.
For entertainment, we played a
game of "Name That Tune" using
the music of women singers and
songwriters who promote strong
and positive images of women.
Much merriment and laughter
ensued as teams listened and
guessed their way through a diverse
array of artists. We even discovered
some hidden vocal talent in the
group! Those at the winning table
went home with gift certificates
from local merchants. Many thanks
go to Super Valu, Robbinsdale Oil,
Robbinsdale Magic Cleaners,
Piazza's Italian Ristorante, Golden
Valley Lanes, Golden Valley Beauty
Center, and Broadway Station
Pizza.
Maura Lynch, Volunteer Coordinator
Paula Litman
Carol Rosen
Mary Leizinger
Diane Sass
Sue Meeks
Mike Sass
Greg Paffel
Judy Stutsman
Jean Radke
Tammy Veale
Angela Romeo
Dan Walsh
Karen Roorda
' q
w 0�
'\ IKON
Appreciates
Your Support!
Recognizing Our Many Volunteers
Colleen Anderson
Trish Hemler
Jodi Macedonia
Jane Rollin
Lori Berke
Jane Henke
Annette Malinsky
Lynn Rossow
Mary Bolles
Gail Heyda
Denise McCarthy
Marilyn Running
Simone Brovege
Gary Hitchcock
Jennifer McKennah
Lynda Rutherford
Kari Brown
Sheri Holles
Roxanne McNamer
Penny Schafer
Sharon Berndt
Amy Holtan
Georgiann Melton
Laurel Severson
Sheri Caserta
Liz Johnson
Elaine Mueller
Kelly Shelton
Sandy Cook
Marlys Keeney
Jean Nelson
Deb Sikkink
Eileen Custer
Ginger King
Corinne Neururer
Izzy Smith
Hilary Debler
Shelley Kleinbaum
Katie O'Connor
Renee Smith
Marlene Deotis
Jennifer Knapp
Charlotte Olson
Carolyn Soule
Vicki Dibble
Denise Knight
Lisa Pertile
Deb Steinkopf
Sue Dorf
Margot Knoll
Leslie Peterson
Linda Strate
Sue Enderlein
Marion Knox
Amy Pierre
Jacki Swanson
Robin Ewing
Angela Kranz
Valli Potosky
Elaine Totman
Margaret Fisher
Mary Kreitner
Sarah Prekker
Melissa Twiedt
Chris Gale
Mary Larkin
Diane Pryzmus
Linda Wefel
Laura Gisch
Dorothy Lee
Bluette Puchner
Julie Weiss
Luwana Glover
Sheri Ludlam
Katy Reimers
Gillian Workman Stein
Diane Hanson
Arlene Lyman
Bunita Reynolds
Julie Zimmerman
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Special recognition to Advisory Council Members:
Jeff Carlson, Craig Gerdes, Carolyn Humphrey,
Gloria Johnson, Amy Kossila, and Barb Thorsen
A very special thank you
to Advisory Committee member Carolyn
Humphrey for using her "connections" to get
the new retaining wall built at Home Free, and
to volunteer Gary Hitchcock for almost 200
hours of labor on the new landscaping.
6
. HOME FREE WISHES TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY to thank all who provided in-kind donations this year. We
received such a large number that we are unable to list them all. We also thank our anonymous donors as well. Your
generosity is greatly appreciated.
We work hard to ensure the accuracy of our list of contributors. If we have misplaced your name, please let us know so
that we can clear up our records and acknowledge you in our next newsletter.
Cash Donations Through September 1995
BUSINESSES & ORGANIZATIONS
American Association of University Women -Minneapolis
Branch
Brooklyn Park Women of Today
Brunswick United Methodist Church -Elizabeth Circle
Calvary Lutheran Church Women
Church of the Epiphany
Cooperating Fund Drive
Donaldson Foundation
Elim Lutheran Church Women
Emma B. Howe Foundation
Epsilon Sigma Alpha
First Lutheran Church of Crystal
.:oly Name Church
Holy Nativity WELCA
ame Fair
Kiwanis Club of North Hennepin -Minneapolis
Knights of Columbus Auxiliary
Lambda Delta Phi
Lavinia Clark Trust
League of Women Voters -Brooklyn Park, Osseo,
Maple Grove
McKnight Foundation
Mount Olivet Lutheran Church of Plymouth
New Hope Women of Today
North Cliff AA
North Hennepin Business & Professional Women's
Association
Northwest Women's Club
O.E.S.-Chapter 238
Peace Lutheran Church
Pilgrim United Church of Christ
Plymouth -Wayzata Business & Professional Women's
Association
Plymouth Presbyterian Church
Presents of Angels
Robbinsdale United Church of Christ
Robbinsdale United Church of Christ Women's Guild
St. Bartholomew Church
St. James Lutheran Church
St. Mary's of the Lake -Neighbor to Neighbor
St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church
St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church Men'
St. Vincent DePaul Council of Catholic Wom
Schwebel, Goetz, Sieben & Moskal
The Church of St. Joseph The Worker
The Parish Community of St. Joseph
Trinity Covenant Church Women
Valley Community Presbyterian Church
Waytonka Club
Wayzata American Legion Auxiliary
Wayzata Women's Choir
Women of Eternal Hope Lutheran Church
Anderson, Marjorie
Janasz, Charles
Bergum, Phillip & Theresa
Jensen, Heidi & Mark
Bueltel, Joy & Nicholas
Koph, Mary Alice
Carlson, Deanne & Jeffrey
Loeb, Jeffrey
Clement, Clare
Nelson, Elaine
Daily, Dar & Patricia
Pacek-Berry, Janet
D'Etoile, Filles
Pinto, Joseph & Carol
Farmer, Glenn
Rosengren, James &
Gendreau, Charles & Joan
Merry Ann
Huston, Janelle
Sauter, Richard & Karen
Swanson, Iris
Home Free Shelter also receives on-going
support from: City of Brooklyn Park • City of Crystal
• City of Golden Valley & the Golden Valley Foundation
• City of New Hope • City of Plymouth • Minnesota
Department of Corrections • Hennepin County • United
Way of the Greater Minneapolis Area
HOMEFree/December 1995
7
-a
No One Deserves To Be Battered
.........................................................
Battering can happen to anyone. Battered women are of all ages, races, classes, abilities, religions, and
affectional orientations.
Based on police reports the Minnesota Department of Corrections estimates that 63,000 domestic assaults
occur annually.
In the Metro area, 3 out of every 4 women who call seeking shelter cannot find space.
Each year, nationally and in Minnesota, 30-40% of women murdered are killed by their husbands, boy
friends, or intimate partners.
61 out of 87 Minnesota counties have no state funded battered women's advocacy program located within
the county.
What is Domestic
Violence?
........................
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE is more than just the
physical abuse. The power and control wheel
describes the behaviors that are used together
as a system in violent relationships. The wheel
is drawn with violence as the outer rim and the
other behaviors as spokes. Just like a wheel,
they depend upon and reinforce each other.
Economic abuse prevents a woman from
gaining the financial freedom that could help
her escape the violence. Isolation destroys the
support systems of relatives and friends who might
be able to assist her in getting information, suppoc
and resources. Threats reinforce the fear she feels
may make the known violence seem safer than the
ation promised if she attempts to flee. Sexual abus
always a part of the relationship as her right to refuse intimacy is
stolen through violence and threats.
All together, this system of behaviors builds barriers to a woman's escape far
beyond the physical violence alone.
I _ t
From the Book Shelf
THIS PAST YEAR WE SAW A HEIGHTENED INTEREST in the problem of domestic violence and an enormous
amount of media coverage. Good books on the issue are a great resource people can turn to. Yet knowing where
to start can be overwhelming. We would like to suggest two resources, available in paperback, which are illuminat-
ing, readable, and offer no excuses for the root causes of the growing problem of women being battered in our
culture. We have included some excerpts from these important books below.
Feel free to contact Volunteer Coordinator, Maura Lynch at 545-7072 if you would like a more extensive reading
list or are interested in volunteering. Many of the ideas outlined in the following books are typical of the informa-
tion you receive at our volunteer training program held every February, May, and September.
Maura Lynch, Volunteer Coordinator
From Next Time, She'll Be Dead. Battering and How to Stop 14 by Ann Jones, 1994, ISBN # 0-8070-6770-9:
... battering is not a series of isolated blow-ups. It is a process of deliberate intimidation intended to coerce the victim to do
the will of the victimizer. The batterer is not just losing his temper ... suffering from stress ... manifesting "insecurity" or a
spontaneous reaction "provoked" by ... the victim ... or ... an "inhibition in anger control mechanisms." These are excuses for
violence ... yet we all know aggrieved, insecure, stressed -out people with meager interpersonal skills who lose their temper
without becoming violent. We assume, then ... that under extreme stress he has spun out of control. He looks it, and that's
what he says: "I wasn't myself." "I was drunk." ... "I lost it." ... But in fact that violence is himself, perfectly in control and
exercising control.
From Wben Love Goes Wrong: Wbat to Do When You Can't Do Anything Right: Strategies for Women With
Controlling Partners, by Ann Jones and Susan Schecter, 1992, ISBN # 0-06-092369-5:
What to Do When a Woman Confides in You
1. Believe her. She will not he about abuse.
2. Acknowledge and support her for talking to you. She has taken a risk: her partner could hurt her or you could reject her.
3. Let her know that you consider her feelings reasonable and normal.
4. Let her lead the conversation. She needs you to be a good listener.
5. If she asks you to do something you can't or don't want to do, say so. Be careful not to impose your ideas of help on her.
6. Tell her you care about her and her safety.
7. Don't blame her for the abuse.
8. Offer your help to find resources in the community for protection, advocacy, or support (Don't ever offer things you can't
deliver).
9. Respect her pace and be patient.
10. Remind her of her strengths, accomplishments, and positive attributes.
11. Always support her when she acts on her own behalf.
12. Remind yourself that many communities still don't protect women's rights. Don't assume that police, courts, and public
agencies will protect and help her. And don't be surprised if she feels safer taking no action.
13. With the permission of the woman you're trying to help, work on expanding her circle of support. The more supporters she
has, the stronger she may become.
HOMEFree/December 1995 9
A Volunteer Voice
wilting class in Wayzata• Following
one class, two of us stayed to work on our
me Free in a q 's beeper went off and she left the room. A Few minutes
relationship with Ho in silence, Nancy P
I began my While we were stitching
Baltimore quilt squares.picked up her fabric,
later she retumed and p ?" I asked, curious about herbeeper she said.
f work do you do. me Free in P1Yn' what kind of work I do. I said one of the things I
"What kind o experiencing
and then she asked
"I work with the IntervenouC the intervention project
ab in might be helpful for some of the women who are exp you She told me a little bit classes. She said that journal g
do is teach journal writing oin to connect with Home Free, ortunities and see them as `a ,called on the
on volunteer oPP ft feel like you are being PP
abuse. It was at that mo as d amatic We don't often come
inside you or when y called
Now I know this sown our life when a little be
goes
know those mom s o e of dose moments! I w interested in getting involved with Home Free. I went home an
shoulder? This wa me to call if d tit on the mailing list for the next volunteer training
Nancy gave me her card and told g ro ram. I
My knowledge of journalin in this p g
immediately. I don't remember who 1 talked to but she said to obility of using Y aura said there would be
session. and I already had a commitment. M
in April 1 connected with M n he f first weekednd in May ut e P
would b o books for me to read over the summer, The Verbally Abusive
is m
found out training wow g information or help if sh
another training session in the fall andone suggested two if
and When Love Goes R found I was unable to ask for either ook.\I found
these
hi tion to what it might be like to be woman seeking
Relations Q introduction ata an one buying
Locating these books was my self ... So what? I could be anY
„I buying this book because 1 am
ankind of abusive relationship, s. Om ,It to reasonedtwith �mye deliberately did not say, use I went to the library and
Y I was an, bu purchased it. I d ridiculo )
someone thoughtself and P hat would have sounded pretty
The Verbally Abusive Relationship mY "but 1 held my 100gue.
in a battered women's program. t was later when I checked out Next
lk orhme. III Be Dead that I Y C been in
going to volunteer ,rite as jarring. I m not checking out this
I have
found the other title, which wasn't q lin, l wanted to say, ' ' I not in an abusive relationship. Yes,
clic look from the librarian. Again,
these books for me. No, n t believe we can be women in fo ue and
sympath what to call them. I do le as taking my car torepairs.
I soon discovered that I was checking o s as simp averment of women.
aver over" with thing for
abusive relationships before nehee sub le forms °knowing,,p° every arena in my life I have works a feminist ethicist at Union
not experience abuse. I pe ears. In e ry. Harrison speak. She i d out or went
I have called myself a feminist for fourteen
hear Beverly W►ldung over time, women either droho ia, and classism.
Last March I went to the United Seminary It is racism, homop
we are battling.
York. She said that as the women' s nOC'uSL°�Sm lop dee level within me. w°men,
Seminary in New deeper now saw that this few African Arr'er►can
deeper. Those who went deep 1 understood this, but 1 couldn't feel it at any P in with her
shopp g
s all the same thing. Intellectually, Eyes." One told what it was like going
experience as
It ► Home Free's weekend training at Bro °nEY s." C ity in Septembeehow I could link my P
When 1 went through Blue Eyes, experience as a Cauca
in the group gave their reactions to the video, I can't! I
mall. Right then, speaking. I couldne 1 that
how she feels;
I could feel inside what Beverly had calked about. o
daughter at a local I am not saying
pure with the African American w0el and moreallow, g t connected me with her. This was
awoman in this cu tha
the word, "level" But it was that one little glimpse
Sian woman is one level. what 1 mean by thew woman is ateism but I did not have the right words before
can't even say eriences rat
important to me American daughter. I know that she exp
the
I am a paTent of an Asian
't. I can begin now. ld also like to write about a new friend
► t Home Free has meant to me ° far. I would like to write about m
to talk to her about h article on what volunteering a ital. I wo ed the locks on y
This is a long enoug"I am kind of afraid of him. I Chang
nce of visiting two women on electionusband. She said o me nal also remind her that his threats are not the result of
experience anted from he Tanning and a
of mine who recently sep
house." I was able to give her some information c safety P and I know I have just begun _Lynn Rossow, volunteer
!
anger that he "can't control,' but are power and gedtme already,
a volunteer at Home Free has Chang
Becoming x.
10
Exciting Ways to Volunteer at Nome Free , Z
Home Frees volunteers serve in both direct service and special project capacities, including working with children,
doing landscaping or clean-up work, answering the crisis line in the shelter, facilitating support group, responding on-
call by phone, home or hospital visits, clerical support, adopt -a -room projects, throwing parties for shelter residents and
more. We have some exciting new volunteer projects: videotaping our monthly volunteer meetings, taking photos of
our volunteers for a volunteer tree, assembling a volunteer photo album, and maintaining a ready supply of memorial
ribbons. For those who may be interested in any of these projects, please contact Maura at 545-7072. We also welcome
your own volunteer project ideas, especially if you have experience or special know-how in a particular area.
A Guide to Volunteer Opportunities
.........................................................
Women
Teens (16+)
Women only
Women only
Women only
Women only
HOW to Volunteer: Complete an intensive training program offered each fall, winter, and spring.
Next Step: Call Maura at 545-7072.
biternshipS are available in the Women's, Children's, and Intervention Programs. All Internships require
completion of the training program offered each fall, winter, and spring and a commitment of at least 100 hours.
SM Not Sere? If you're still not sure whether Home Free has the kind of volunteer/internship opportunity you
are looking for or how you fit in, or if you have other special talents you would like to share, please call
Mauna at 545-7072. If you get the voice mail, leave your full name, mailing address, day and evening phone num-
bers, along with correct spellings, and information will be sent to you.
HOMEFree/December 1995 11
'( - Zip
r---------------------------------- --
We appreclate your donation of a stamp when you use the enclosed donation envelope. Every penny
saved allows us to meet the needs of more battered women and their children. We thank you for your
interest and support.
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Please
------------------------------------
Please note: A few weeks ago WCCO-TV news ran a story on abuse in a program funded by Home Free Health Care in
Bloomington. We have received several calls from people wondering if we are the same program. We want people to know
that Home Free Shelter in Plymouth is in no way connected with Home Free Health Care in Bloomington. Thank you for
your continued support of our programs!
3405 East Medicine Lake Blvd., Plymouth, MN 55441
Address Correction Requested
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Organization
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PAID
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Permit No. 2246
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METRO DIGEST */a
A digest of the activities of the Metropolitan Council, Metropolitan Airports Commission, Metropolitan Parks and Open
Space Commission and Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission for the month of November. Call the appropriate
commission or operations area with any questions.
December 8,1995
Me&opohlan
Council
The Metropolitan Council is located at Mears Park Centre, 230 E. Fifth St., St. Paul, MN, 55101. For
more information about Council items, call 291-6359 (TDD:
291-0904). Call the Metro Information
Line at 229-3780 for recorded information about Council activities. For information via computer, you'
may dial (by modem) 337-5400, the Twin Cities Computer Network (TCCN); customer service is
332-2101.`4
Metropolitan Council
Metro HRA Celebrates 20 Years of Service
Metro HRA Service
Council's Housing and Redevelopment Authority
•Metro HRA serves 135 cities in the Twin Cities
(Metro HRA) is proud to celebrate 20 years of
area by providing assistance to households with
service to the region. When Metro HRA began
low incomes. So far in 1995, Metro HRA helped
operations in 1975, it was charged with achieving
more than 5,000 households pay their monthly
greater diversity in housing types and costs
rent. The HRA's federally funded Section 8
throughout the metro area. At the time, nearly 90
certificate and voucher program helps people pay
percent of affordable units were located in the
for market -rate housing in the community of their
central cities.
choice.
•Metro HRA collaborates with local governments
Because high concentrations of low-cost housing
and nonprofit organizations to tie together rent
in Minneapolis and St. Paul contributed to
assistance and additional support services. For
neighborhood and central city decline, housing
example, Metro HRA, together with the
officials worked toward affordable housing that is
Minneapolis and St. Paul public housing agencies,
less dense and scattered throughout the Twin
is engaged in a demonstration program to help
Cities area to improve communities, family
100 families relocate from distressed areas in
housing and the region's economy.
Minneapolis and St. Paul to central city and
suburban locations with low poverty rates. The
"In addition," said HRA Manager Thomas
HomeChoic_ program gives participants more
McElveen, "many communities didn't have the
choice in where they live, work and send their
staff or expertise to take advantage of housing
children to school.
funds available through the state and federal
governments. One major accomplishment has
been technical assistance and planning to help
communities provide more housing options to
low- and moderate -income families already living
in the area."
Today, the efforts of Metro HRA continue to be
part of an overall regional strategy to provide
housing and support services throughout the Twin
Cities area that is affordable to people of all
incomes and all stages of life.
Another example is East Metro Place, a nonprofit
transitional housing program in White Bear Lake.
Metro HRA provides rent assistance to families
with children who live at East Metro Place.
Parents at East Metro Place are enrolled in
education or training programs designed to lead to
employment. An on-site program director
provides support to parents and their children.
•Metro HRA also provides rent assistance to
hundreds of households enrolled in other self-
sufficiency programs, people with mental illness
who live independently and families left homeless
� METRO DIGEST tiA�
after leaving an abusive household.
Other Council housing activities:
The Metropolitan Council is also responsible for
implementing the Metropolitan Livable
Communities Act, an affordable housing and
community development program. The new law
provides financial incentives for communities to
support housing that's more affordable and
diverse, clean up polluted land and encourage
development and redevelopment that is more
dense and transit -oriented. The law also includes
income tax breaks to families who move into
certain neighborhoods of Minneapolis, St. Paul
and Columbia Heights.
Council activities in November.
(Note to readers: The Metro .Digest sorts Council
actions into four areas, reflecting the four Council
standing committees: Community Development,
Transportation, Environment and Finance. It
should also be noted that full Council actions are
reported here, not Committee actions.)
Community Development
• Adopted a local -preference policy for the
Section 8 program. The policy will permit the
issuance of 15 housing vouchers for the Eden
Prairie HOPE program; the policy can also be
applied to similar housing programs in other cities
in the future.
• Approved a Maple Grove request to remove 9.8
acres of land within the urban service area and add
8.4 acres of land. The land trade would allow the
construction of 48 rental town home units to
provide affordable housing in the city.
Environment
• Approved a mission and expected results for the
Environmental Services Division. The division has
two roles:
• supporting the Council function of guiding
regional development
• protecting public health and the environment
through water resources planning and waste
water service.
• Approved funds of $104,000 for water -quality
projects at four additional watersheds.
• Authorized purchase of a spectrometer from
Perkin Elmer Corp. for $171,000 to be used in
waste water treatment analysis.
• Authorized a contract of $550,000 with
Polypure, Inc. for polymer to be used at the
Seneca waste water treatment plant.
• Authorized solicitation of bids for application
on land of N -Vico Soil and Nutralime; both
products are derived from solids remaining from
the waste water treatment process.
Finance
• Authorized a contract with Coleman Consulting
Group, Inc. for $355,000 for consulting services
on the collective bargaining agreement with Local
1005 of the Amalgamated Transit Workers union.
• Approved the workers compensation claims of
Grace Cooper against the former Metropolitan
Transit Commission.
• Approved continued employee insurance
coverage for the Metropolitan Area Agency on
Aging.
• Authorized a retention limit (deductible) for its
workers compensation coverage; the coverage is
provided by the state's Workers Compensation
Reinsurance Association.
• Approved a draft 1996 work program and
budget.
• Approved the scheduling of a public hearing for
discussion of the Council's 1996 work program
and budget; the hearing date is December 7 at 6
p.m. in the Council chambers.
• Approved the scheduling of a public hearing
for discussion of the 1996 to 2000 capital
improvement program and 1996 capital budget for
December 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council chambers.
• Approved a two-year contract of $460,000 with
the General Security Corporation for security
services at the Metro waste water treatment plant.
The Council also:
• Approved a draft 1996 capital budget and
capital improvement program for 1996 through
2000; the drafts will be discussed at a public
METRO DIGEST'V" �2
hearing.
Public Meetings, Hearings and Board
Openings:
Public Meeting on Metro HRA Adoption of Local
Preference Policy for Use in Section 8 Rental
Assistance Program Participant Selections/As part
of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority
Committee: Wednesday, December 13 at 8:30
a.m., Room 1A.
Public Hearing: On Affordable and Life -cycle
Housing Goals Agreements Negotiated with Twin
Cities Area Communities Participating in the
Metropolitan Livable Communities Program will
be held Thursday, December 21 at 6 p.m. in the
Council Chambers.
New Publications
Council publications are available from the Data
Center, including the Regional Blueprint and
Council newsletter, Council Directions. For a
free and complete list of publications, write the
Metropolitan Council Data Center, 230 E. Fifth
St., St. Paul, MN 55 10 1, or call 291-8140. There
is a charge for some publications.
Council publications can be read at major public
libraries in the Metro Area. Recent publications
are listed on the Metro Info Line at 229-3780. A
list of publications is available via a computer
modem at 337-5400 on the Twin Cities Computer
Network (TCCN).
Council Directions provides information on
regional issues and Council programs. If you wish
to receive a copy of Council Directions, call
Carol Berens at 291-6447.
A reminder: News about new publications,
Council actions, coming meetings and subsidized
housing referrals is available by dialing the Metro
Info Line at 229-3780.
Similar information and an interactive forum on
regional issues are available on TCCN. You can
get access to TCCN through your computer
modem by dialing 337-5400. TCCN customer
service is 332-2101.
Metropolitan Commission
Activities
Metropolitan Airports Commission
(MAC)
The Commission:
• Approved exceeding the $25,000 contract with
APCOA, a parking management firm, for
inspection of certain types of vehicles to safeguard
the Lindbergh Terminal from bombs.
• Approved a five-year lease for outdoor
advertising at I-494 and Cedar Ave. to Adams
Outdoor Advertising Co..
• Approved a request from Business Express
Airlines to provide new service from MSP to
Aspen, Colorado. The Commission must ratify
the agreement.
• Re-referred consideration of funding for the
Part 150 home insulation program to the Planning
and Environment Committee to explore funding
alternatives in light of a decrease in airport
improvement program funding;
Metropolitan Airports Commission offices are
located at 6040 28th Av. S., Minneapolis, MN.
55450. For more information, call Lynn Sorensen
at 726-8186.
Metropolitan Sports Facilities
Commission (MSFQ
The Commission:
e Approved plans and specifications for a
motorized curtain to cover certain upper deck
areas during Twins games.
• Approved transfer of $2 million for a sound
system from the 1996 budget to the 1995 budget.
• Approved an additional $55,857 for replacing
the sound system at the Metrodome.
• Rescinded approval to request proposals for a
lobbyist to represent the commission before
government bodies.
• Authorized request -for -proposals for
Metrodome management services.
Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission offices
are located at 900 South 5th St., Minneapolis, MN
55415. For more information, call Judy Somers at
335-3310.
Metropolitan Parks and Open Space
Commission (MPOSC)
The Commission:
• Recommended approval of a grant of $35,000
for trail development in North Mississippi
Regional Park
The Parks and Open Space Commission offices
are located at Mears Park Centre, 230 E. Fifth St.,
St. Paul, 55101. For more information, call 291-
6363.
League of Minnesota Cities E_
Cities Bulletin
Number 36
December 8, 1995
Business community reacts to League
policy opposing market value levies
Gary Carlson
At the November 17 League of
Minnesota Cities Policy Adoption
Conference, members adopted a policy
opposing the current requirements that
referenda levies be applied to market
value and opposing any future legisla-
tive proposals that would further rely
on market value for the extension of
local property taxes.
We expect the business community
to again criticize the League's position
opposing market value property tax
levies. If you receive any comments
from your local business community,
please explain to them the intention of
the policy.
The League's Fiscal Futures
Committee developed the policy with
two concerns in mind. First, by
extending new property taxes to market
value rather than to tax capacity, the
burden of the property tax is shifted to
homeowners. These shifts create
confusion among taxpayers and
consternation among local officials
who must explain the changes and
burdens to taxpayers. Second, the
provisions add complexity to an
already convoluted property tax
system.
The business community contends
that cities are trying to shift the burden
to business property types. In reality,
the major concern for cities is the
preservation of tax base.
Last year, several business groups
attacked a similar League policy on the
grounds that it would shift hundreds of
millions of dollars of property tax
levies to business property owners. In
fact, last year cities levied only slightly
more than $2 million in referenda
property taxes that were applied to
market value.
The policy adopted on November
17 does permit modifications to the
class rates defined in the current tax
capacity system that would modify the
tax burdens paid by the broad classes
of property. However, the policy does
not specifically endorse any particular
set of changes. A copy of the policy is
reprinted to the right in italics.
As always, contact the League of
Minnesota Cities if you have questions
or need further information.
Page 3 -- Action Alert
Page 4 -- State budget forecast
Congress is expected to act this
The state now expects a $600
week on telecommunications
million surplus by the end of the
reform. Contact your member of
1996-97 biennium. How this
Congress today and urge support
unexpected good news will affect
for city related provisions.
cities is unclear.
Levies on Market Value
Problem: Statutory provisions that
require the application of new refer-
enda levies to property market value
rather than tax capacity have added
complexity to the property tax system
and shifted the burden of these property
taxes to homeowners. Additional
proposals are likely to be considered by
the 1996 Legislature that would require
the application of property tax levy
increases to property market value.
Solution: To avoid further
complexity and tax burden shifts
among classes of property, all property
taxes should be based on a tax
capacity classification system.M( E
Contents
Business community reacts to League policy
opposing market value levies.................................................1
Congress to act on telecommunications reform:
Contact congressional delegation today ................................
3
State budget forecast: The state now expects a $600
million surplus by the end of the 1996-97 biennium ...........4
4MFund update.......................................................................4
Letus know..............................................................................
4
Funding available for rental assistance program ...................
5
Odor rule to be revised............................................................
5
TIF administrative fee to State Auditor...................................6
Water online debuts on World Wide Web ..............................6
MPCA proposes amendments to water quality standards
and use clarification rule.........................................................6
State adopts new accessibility code........................................6
Training/Conference................................................................7
Municipalads...........................................................................
8
Give your employees a choice................................................9
Minnesota Municipal Board hires
new executive director.............................................................9
The Cities Bulletin is a publication of the League of Minnesota Cities and includes
an update of state legislative, administrative and congressional actions that affect cities. It
also includes reviews of metropolitan area issues by the Association of Metropolitan
Municipalities.
League intergovernmental relations staff members are available to answer your
questions concerning legislation relating to cities.
Executive Director Editors Typesetting and design
Jim Miller Tim Busse Gayle Brodt
Erica Norris
Associate Executive Director Circulation
Sharon Klumpp Laurie Brown
League of Minnesota Cities, 145 University Avenue West, St. Paul, MN 55103
Phone: (612) 281-1200; (800) 925-1122; Fax: (612) 281-1299; TDD: (612) 281-1290.
yIx�
Board of Directors 1995-96
PRESIDENT
Karen Anderson
Mayor
Minnetonka
FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
Frank Salerno
Mayor
Ely
DIRECTORS
Joe Biernat
Councilmember
Minneapolis
Chuck Canfield
Councilmember
Rochester
Robert J. Demuth
Mayor
Worthington
Sharon Feess
Councilmember
Brooklyn Park
Delvin Haag
Councilmember
Buffalo
Lyle Hanks
Mayor
St. Louts Park
Kenneth Hartung
City Administrator
Bayport
Blaine Hill
Clerk -Treasurer
Breckenridge
Roberta Megard
Councilmember
Saint Paul
Douglas Peterson
Mayor
Bemidji
Joy Tiemey
Mayor
Plymouth
EX OFFICIO
Chuck Winkelman
LMC Past President
Mayor
St. Cloud
Joan Campbell
AMM President
Councilmember
Minneapolis
45 Printed on recycled paper
Page 2 LMC Cities Bulletin
°�Action�Alert
Congress to act on telecommunications reform:
Contact congressional delegation today
Ann Higgins
The Telecommunications Confer-
ence Committee will likely call for
final action in the House and Senate on
the Telecommunications Reform Act
(H.R. 1555/S. 652). City officials
should contact members of the Minne-
sota Congressional delegation and urge
them to protect local government
authority and interests.
Specifically, city officials should
ask their Representatives and Senators
Grams and Wellstone to:
• Uphold language in Section 243 of
H.R. 1555 to protect local govern-
ment authority to manage and
receive fair and competitively
neutral compensation for use of
public rights-of-way;
• Remove Section 107 from H.R.
1555 regarding cellular facility
siting which would give the FCC
full authority to set national zoning
standards for siting of cellular
antennas and Direct Broadcast
Satellite (DBS) reception dishes;
• Retain requirements for local
public, educational and govern-
ment programming in Sections 653
and 656 of H.R. 1555; and,
• Reject House language pre-
empting local taxation over DBS
services.
Both versions of the telecommuni-
cations reform legislation deregulate
the telecommunications industry and
encourage competition between local
exchange, the regional bells, long-
distance carriers and cable companies.
Conferees held their first meeting
December 5 to put together a final bill
after a month of staff level negotia-
tions. No members of the Minnesota
congressional delegation are on the
conference committee, but all are in a
position to contact colleagues who are
December 8, 1995
working on the final form of the
legislation in conference.
Pre-emption issues
Provisions in H.R. 1555 regarding
DBS operations have been drafted so
broadly that their facilities would be
exempt from local property or business
taxation. City concerns have largely
been ignored. It is important to let
members of the Minnesota congres-
sional delegation know that this issue
will likely cost cities millions of
dollars. Senator Pressler (R -SD),
author of S. 652, and Senate conferees
appear prepared to accept the House
language that would pre-empt local
authority to levy property taxes on
DBS service providers.
Local zoning authority for the
siting of cellular and DBS reception
facilities is also at stake. The National
League of Cities has been working to
reach agreement on language that
would bar pre-emption of local zoning
authority that determines on a nondis-
criminatory basis where and how
cellular and other telecommunications -
including DBS reception dishes and
personal communications services
facilities - are located within cities. The
language would also uphold local
zoning ordinances that are competi-
tively neutral among providers of
functionally equivalent services, and
regulate how and where communica-
tions facilities and services are located
within cities.
Capitol Hill phonelfax numbers:
Representative Gil Gutknecht
Representative David Minge
Representative Jim Ramstad
Representative Bruce Vento
Representative Martin Sabo
Representative Bill Luther
Representative Colin Peterson
Representative Jim Oberstar
Senator Rod Grams
Senator Paul Wellstone
Right-of-way authority
Both House and Senate members
overwhelmingly approved provisions
to protect the ability of local authority
to manage the use of public rights-of-
way by telecommunications service
providers. All House members of the
Minnesota congressional delegation,
except Representative Gutknecht,
supported the Barton-Stupak amend-
ment to H.R. 1555. Last week, the
National League of Cities alerted city
officials about efforts within the
conference committee to undermine
that provision. Although the attempt
appears to have been thwarted, it is
imperative that city officials insist on
retention of provisions already agreed
to by both bodies to uphold the
exercise of local public power over the
use of streets, alleys, easements and
other public property. R
(202) 225-2472 fax (202) 225-3246
(202) 225-2331 fax (202) 226-0836
(202) 225-2871 fax (202) 225-6351
(202) 225-6631 fax (202) 225-1968
(202) 225-4755 fax (202) 225-4886
(202) 225-2271 fax (202) 225-3368
(202) 225-2165 fax(202)225-1593
(202) 225-6211 fax (202) 225-0699
(202) 224-3244 fax (202) 228-0956
(202) 224-5641 fax (202) 224-8438
Page 3
State Budget Forecast: The state now expects a
$600 million surplus by end of 1996-97 biennium
Gary Carlson
The state Department of Finance
unveiled revised revenue and expendi-
ture estimates for the 1996-97 bien-
nium and the estimates now project a
state surplus of revenues over expendi-
tures in excess of $824 million by the
end of the biennium. These revised
estimates challenge recent assertions
that the state budget is grossly out of
balance and that major spending
reductions, including cuts in local
government aid and HACA are
automatically necessary.
The revised estimates are largely
based on increased revenue projections
and a stronger than expected budget
forecast that was carried forward from
the 1994-1995 biennium. Minnesota's
economy is performing better than
expected and is thus generating
additional sales and income tax
4M Fund update
An investment alternative sponsored by
the League of Minnesota Cities
What is the 4M Fund?
The 4M Fund is a short-term money market fund specifically designed to address the
comprehensive cash management needs of Minnesota r;ities and their instrumentalities.
Backed by the objectives of providing safety, liquidity and a competitive yield, the Fund is
comprised of the highest quality, short-term investments allowable under Minnesota
Statutes 475.66.The short-term nature of the Fund serves to minimize the effect of changes
in interest rates.The Fundis managed and serviced by Insight Investment Management and
MBIA -Municipal Investors Service Corporation.Afixed rate program administered by Dain
Bosworth Incorporated is available to 4M Fund participants, offering such alternatives as
certificates of deposit, U.S. Treasury and agency securities and commercial paper.
Market update—November 20 through December 1, 1995
Over the past several weeks the yield curve for government securities has inverted, most
notably in the one to five year maturity range. While both the six-month Treasury bill and the
five yearTreasury note are yielding 5.45 percent, Treasury maturities between those dates
dip below 5.40 percent.
It appears that the Federal Reserve Board has postponed any adjustment to the Federal
Funds rate until a budget agreement can be reached. However, the government market has
anticipated the Board's next move, thus yields continue to drift downward. Within the one
year maturity horizon, the highest yields are now found in the January and February, 1996
maturity range. Some defensive investors seem to be overlooking these maturities in favor
of extending, given the belief that securities with January and February maturities offer
inadequate yield compensation for their reinvestment risk.
Daily Rates— November 20 through December 1, 1995
'Interest rates are net of all applicable fees.
Daily interest compounding, free checking, Automated Clearing House (ACH) payment systems and
investment educational opportunities are among the services offered by the Fund. For more information,
please call Stefanie Adams o1 Insight Investment Management at (800) 333-0813 or (612) 371-7275.
Page 4
revenues that are bolstering the state
coffers. In addition, spending esti-
mates for health care and family
support have been revised down by
$261 million for the biennium.
The revised budget forecast
numbers also indicate that during the
1998-1999 biennium, the state will
experience a modest budget deficit
rather than the more than $800 million
deficit that was projected at the end of
the 1995 session. These optimistic
forecast projections indicate that a
major budge crisis may be less likely in
the near future.
The revised forecast numbers do
not include the effects of reduced
funding due to federal cuts. However,
the new forecast indicates that the
short-term problem will likely be
manageable within the state's current
revenue and expenditure constraints.
Under current state law, the first
$15 million of forecast surplus must be
used to increase the budget reserve to
$220 million. Therefore, the state will
have a total budget and cash flow
reserve of $570 million. Any addi-
tional surplus must be used to reduce or
eliminate school levy recognition
percentage. This provision would use
$794 million of the remaining $809
million surplus. EE
Let us know. . .
Over the past few months
LMCIT has received several
comments from cities about
delays in payment of Workers'
Compensation medical bills.
We've taken steps to fix the
problem, but if you are still
seeing delays, please call either
Pete Tritz (612) 281-1265, or
Tom Grundhoefer (612) 281-
1266 at the League offices. You
can also use the toll-free number,
(800) 925-1122. KE
LMC Cities Bulletin
Interest
Average Maturity
Interest
Average Maturity
Date
Rate,
of Portfolio
Date
Rate'
of Portfolio
11/20
5.36%
26 days
11/27
5.38%
22 days
11/21
5.35%
26 days
11/28
5.37%
22 days
11/22
5.38%
29 days
11/20
5.37%
18 days
11/23
5.38%
26 days
11/30
5.40%
18 days
11/24
5.37%
26 days
12/1
5.40%
22 days
'Interest rates are net of all applicable fees.
Daily interest compounding, free checking, Automated Clearing House (ACH) payment systems and
investment educational opportunities are among the services offered by the Fund. For more information,
please call Stefanie Adams o1 Insight Investment Management at (800) 333-0813 or (612) 371-7275.
Page 4
revenues that are bolstering the state
coffers. In addition, spending esti-
mates for health care and family
support have been revised down by
$261 million for the biennium.
The revised budget forecast
numbers also indicate that during the
1998-1999 biennium, the state will
experience a modest budget deficit
rather than the more than $800 million
deficit that was projected at the end of
the 1995 session. These optimistic
forecast projections indicate that a
major budge crisis may be less likely in
the near future.
The revised forecast numbers do
not include the effects of reduced
funding due to federal cuts. However,
the new forecast indicates that the
short-term problem will likely be
manageable within the state's current
revenue and expenditure constraints.
Under current state law, the first
$15 million of forecast surplus must be
used to increase the budget reserve to
$220 million. Therefore, the state will
have a total budget and cash flow
reserve of $570 million. Any addi-
tional surplus must be used to reduce or
eliminate school levy recognition
percentage. This provision would use
$794 million of the remaining $809
million surplus. EE
Let us know. . .
Over the past few months
LMCIT has received several
comments from cities about
delays in payment of Workers'
Compensation medical bills.
We've taken steps to fix the
problem, but if you are still
seeing delays, please call either
Pete Tritz (612) 281-1265, or
Tom Grundhoefer (612) 281-
1266 at the League offices. You
can also use the toll-free number,
(800) 925-1122. KE
LMC Cities Bulletin
Funding available
for rental assistance
program
Minnesota Housing Finance Agency
The Minnesota Housing Finance
Agency (MHFA) is now accepting
requests for proposals for its Rental
Assistance for Family Stabilization
(RAFS) program which has $3 million
available. Program funding is limited to
counties in which the Section 8 existing
fair market rents, as determined by the
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development, are in the highest one-
third of the average rents in the state.
Those counties include: Aitkin, Anoka,
Beltrami, Benton, Blue Earth, Carver,
Chisago, Clay, Crow Wing, Dakota,
Goodhue, Hennepin, Houston, Isanti,
Itasca, Koochiching, McLeod, Mille
Lacs, Nicollet, Olmsted, Polk, Ramsey,
Rice, St. Louis, Scott, Sherburne,
Stearns, Washington and Wright.
Those eligible to apply for the
funding are Minnesota self-sufficiency
program administrators in partnership
with nonprofit and/or for-profit local
Minnesota housing organizations
which are working with families with
dependent children who receive public
assistance and participate in a certified
self-sufficiency, education or job
training program.
Successful applicants for this
funding will be able to provide
maximum rental assistance of $250 per
month for eligible participants residing
in the seven -county metro area and a
maximum of $200 per month for
participants living in Greater
Minnesota.
Those interested in applying for
funding can request application packets
from the MHFA by writing or calling:
MHFA, 400 Sibley Street, Suite 300,
St. Paul, MN 55101 attn: RAFS,
Multifamily Division, or (612) 296-
9832. The deadline for making
applications for RAFS funding is
Friday, December 15, 1995. Final
selections will be made in late January
1996. HE
1995 Salary and Benefit Surveys
The League's 1995 salary and benefit surveys are now available.
Surveys are conducted annually for cities over 2,500 and cities under
2,500 population. Results are published in two separate survey
books.
This year's surveys include:
• Detailed salary information on 49 and 51 benchmark jobs,
respectively, as well as on elected officials' pay.
• Information on 17 types of benefits.
• Various reports on union contracts, municipal services, average
percentage increases, etc.
Thank you to all of the cities that participated in this year's surveys.
All participating cities received a complimentary copy of the results
from their respective survey.
1995 Salary and Benefit Surveys
Prices'
Participant cities
Nonparticipating member cities and
nonmember cities
Others
Over 2,500 Under 2,500
$30 $20
$45 $30
$90 $60
For more information or to order, contact: League of Minnesota Cities,
145 University Avenue West, St. Paul, MN 55103, (612) 281-1200.
Odor rule to be revised
Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency
On December 26, 1995, a draft
revision of the Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency's odor rule will be
published in the State Register. A fact
sheet describing the proposed rule is
available by calling (612) 397-8918 or
(800) 657-3924 and requesting
document 24.
Rather than establishing concentra-
tion limits for odors, the proposed rule
is based on the concept of community
annoyance. The rule would provide a
voluntary process for local govem-
ments to receive, record and investigate
odor complaints. If enough complaints
are received and verified to document a
community annoyance, the MPCA
would be authorized to require facili-
ties whose odors are emitted from an
emission point, such as a stack or vent,
to identify, quantify and mitigate their,
odorous emissions. The proposed rule
does not contain mitigation require-
ments for area sources like landfills but
does allow the MPCA to determine that
such a source is a community
annoyance.
The draft rule exempts most
agricultural sources, including feedlots
and applications of fertilizer and
pesticides. Forms for recording and
summarizing complaints are included,
as are procedures for assessing the
success of measures to reduce odors.
Comments on the proposed rule
may be sent to: Stuart Arkley, MPCA
Air Quality Division, 520 Lafayette
Road, St. Paul, MN 55155. Hearings
will be scheduled if sufficient requests
are received. EE
December 8, 1995 Page 5
TIF .administrative fee to
State Auditor
Andrea Atherton
The Department of Revenue recently advised county auditors and treasurers
regarding the specifics of a provision in the 1995 omnibus tax law that signifi-
cantly increases the State Auditor's tax increment oversight responsibilities. A
one-tenth percent administrative fee will provide funding for the State Auditor's
new costs of enforcing the tax increment law. This amount will be deducted from
the distributions paid to all TIF districts (not just new districts) in the tax distribu-
tion process. Local tax rate excess tax increment portions of tax increment tax
collections will not be affected.
All distributions made in 1996 and thereafter will be affected, including the
January 1996 final distribution of 1995 taxes as well as previous year delinquent
tax collections. The tax distribution dates in 1996 are January 25, June 19, July 5
and December 2.
Counties will make payment of the deducted amounts directly to the state
treasurer. Thus, the TIF districts will receive reduced tax distributions and the tax
increment authority will not be responsible for making these payments. E1
r
MPCA proposes amendments to water
quality standards and use classification
rule
Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency
Amendments are being proposed
by the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency (MPCA) to the state's water
quality standards and classification
rule, Minn. R. Ch. 7050. As part of this
rulemaking effort, the MPCA is
soliciting outside information and
opinions on the proposed rule amend-
ments. Comments are being accepted
through January 19, 1996.
The major focus of the proposed
amendments deals with adopting the
provisions of the Great Lakes Water
Quality Initiative, commonly referred
to as the GLI. The purpose of the GLI
is to provide consistent, basin -wide,
water quality criteria that are intended
to protect aquatic life, humans and
wildlife within the Great Lakes basin.
These criteria establish the maximum
amounts of pollutants allowable in the
Great Lakes and their tributaries, and
are used as the basis for controlling
discharge pollutant levels.
To request information on the
specific rule amendments and to
provide input to the changes, please
contact the following MPCA staff:
Duane Anderson (612) 297-1831, or
David Maschwitz (612) 296-7255. Toll
free (800) 657-3864. TDD (612) 282-
5332. The MPCA mailing address is
520 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN
55155. EEi
J_�,Op?,8
Water online debuts
on World Wide Web
The Internet can be difficult to
navigate. Fortunately, locating water
and wastewater industry information
has become faster and easier with the
debut of Water Online on the World
Wide Web.
Water Online features technical
articles, in-depth product information,
company and product listings, regula-
tory updates, classified advertising and
links to other relevant home pages.
Because the World Wide Web spans the
globe, Water Online will have a
significant international component in
its content and its audience. The
developers of the site are aiming for
editorial excellence, easy navigation
and attractive design to distinguish
Water Online from other Web sites.
Water Online can be accessed at
http://www.wateronline.conV. For
information on listing or advertising,
call Mike McNulty at (215) 443-3330.
RE
State adopts new
accessibility code
The State of Minnesota has
approved new accessibility require-
ments for building construction. These
standards will apply to all new com-
mercial construction and alteration
projects proposed within Minnesota.
Accessibility standards are applicable
in all areas of the state regardless of
whether or not the city or county has
formally adopted the state building
code. Liability for enforcement lies
with the local entity issuing the
building permit. Therefore, the new
accessibility requirements, which take
effect in January 1996, place a signifi-
cant responsibility on the part of the
entity issuing the building permit.
Contact the State Building Codes and
Standards Division at (612) 296-4639
for more information. Lei
Page 6 LMC Cities Bulletin
ZYaining/Conferences
Festival, Event Management Course
Minnesota Festival and Events
Association
January 19-20, 1996—
March 8-9, 1995
White Bear Lake
(612)624-4947
4th Annual Disability Rights
Conference
Minnesota State Council on Disability
United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota
December 9—St. Paul
Competition in the Local Exchange
Network
Strategic Research Institute
December 11-12 —'Washington, D.C.
(800)599-4950
22nd Annual Collection System
Operators Seminar
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
January 24-26—Bloomington
Newly Elected Conference
League of Minnesota Cities
January 26-27—Grand Rapids
(612) 281-1200
(800)925-1122
Satellite Televideo Technology
'Raining Services
The Innovation Groups
January 1996
(813)622-8484
Newly Elected Conference
League of Minnesota Cities
February 2-3—St. Louis Park
(612)281-1200
(800) 925-1122
Newly Elected Conference
League of Minnesota Cities
February 9-10—North Mankato
(612) 281-1200
(800) 925-1122
Winnipeg Winter Cities
Exhibition 196
February 9-12—Winnipeg
(204) 228-3193
December 8, 1995
Legislative Conference
League of Minnesota Cities
February 29—St. Paul
(612)281-1200
(800)925-1122
Congressional City Conference
National League of Cities
March 9-12—Washington, D.C.
(202) 626-3000
Performance Benchmarking for the
Water Industry Teleconference
American Water Works Association
March 14, 1996—St. Paul, Austin,
Brainerd, East Grand Forks, Hibbing
(612) 591-5407
Loss Control Workshops
League of Minnesota Cities Insurance
Trust
April 2—St. Paul
April 10—Austin
April 11—Worthington
April 17—St. Louis Park
April 23—Hibbing
April 24—Crookston
April 25—Detroit Lakes
April 30—Willmar
May 1—St. Cloud
(612) 281-1200
(800)925-1122
Annual Conference
League of Minnesota Cities
June 11-14—Rochester
(612)281-1200
(800) 925-1122
Clerk's Orientation
League of Minnesota Cities
August 13-15—St. Paul
(612) 281-1200
(800)925-1122
Regional Meetings
League of Minnesota Cities
September 24, 25, 26
October 1, 2, 3, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24
(612)281-1200
(800)925-1122
Policy Adoption Meeting
League of Minnesota Cities
November 22—St. Paul
(612) 281-1200
(800) 925-1122
Congress of Cities
National League of Cities
December 7-10—San Antonio, Texas
(202) 626-3000
Conference Spotlight
Minnesota city officials -- mark your calendars now and encourage your
newly elected colleagues to attend the League of Minnesota Cities Newly
Elected Officials Conference. With so many laws, regulations and competing
interests, the business of governing can be challenging. One of the League's
most popular programs, this conference is specifically tailored to the needs of
newly elected mayors, council members and city officials who have been
appointed to fill vacancies throughout the year.
New city officials should plan on attending this conference to receive a
complete overview of job duties, as well as an introduction to League products
and member services. Topics covered include: legal realities of the open
meeting law, conflict of interest and data privacy; working with staff; respond-
ing to constituents; and presentations by veteran elected officials and experts.
The conference will be held in Grand Rapids --January 26 - 27, in St.
Louis Park --February 2 - 3, and in North Mankato --February 9-10. For
registration and housing information, please call Cathy Dovidio (612) 281-
1250, or Darlyne Lang (612) 281-1251. Cathy and Darlyne can also be
reached by using the League's toll free number (800) 925-1122.
Page 7
Municipal ads ��Zd
Municipal ads are printed at no charge to member cities. Ads run in one
issue only unless notice is received to run a second time. The Cities Bulletin is
published weekly during the legislative session and every other week during the
interim, the time between sessions. Municipal ads will appear in the next avail-
able Cities Bulletin. Cities have the right to reject any or all bids on equipment or
proposals, and to waive any informalities there. Minnesota cities are equal
opportunity employers.
For information on placing an ad, contact Gayle Brodt at (612) 2154033
(direct dial) or any member of the LMC communications team at (612) 281-1200
or (800) 925-1122.
Positions
BUILDING OFFICIAL. Big Lake is
accepting applications for a full-time
building official. This position will be
responsible for residential and commercial
inspections and must be licensed for both
with a Minnesota Building Official
Certificate. This individual must also hold a
valid Minnesota driver's license. Salary
range is $26,000 to $33,000 annually.
Apply at Big Lake City Hall, 160 Lake
Street North, PO Box 250, Big Lake, MN
55309-0250. Telephone (612) 263-2107.
Applications must be received at City Hall
by 4:30 p.m. on December 15, 1995.
CITY ADMINISTRATOR. Red Lake
Falls (population 1,500) is accepting
applications for a city administrator. This
position reports to the mayor and five
council members and is responsible for the
daily operations of the city. Duties include
long range planning, supervision of five
full- and two part-time employees, water
and sewer utility billing, financial reporting,
preparation of meeting agendas and
minutes, issuing permits, preparation/
administration of an annual budget of
$900K, and implementation of capital
improvement projects. A degree in public or
business administration and three to five
years of experience is preferred. Send
resume and salary history to City of Red
Lake Falls, Selection Committee, PO Box
37, Red Lake Falls, MN 56750 no later than
the close of business January 2, 1996.
Interviews will be conducted in January.
CITY CLERK/TREASURER/
ADMINISTRATOR. Lewiston (population
1,380) is seeking a clerk/treasurer/
administrator. Position reports to the City
Council and is responsible for the day to
day operations of the city. Duties include
financial reporting, budget preparation for
annual $650K budget, planning, zoning
administration, water and sewer utility
billing, minutes and agenda preparation,
voting, and personnel administration. The
city employs five (six in 1996) full-time
personnel, and approximately 20 part-time/
seasonal personnel. Degree in public
administration or five years municipal
experience preferred. Enterprise funds are
water and sewer. Applicant must be
computer literate. Salary negotiable,
depending on qualifications. Apply with
resume and cover letter to City Council,
City of Lewiston, PO Box 129, Lewiston,
MN 55952. Deadline is December 20,
1995. Interviews during January 1996.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR. Olivia has an immediate
opening for an economic development
director. This is a full-time position. Olivia
is the county seat of Renville County.
Requirements include a Bachelor's degree
in finance, accounting, business administra-
tion or related field. The candidate must
also have a minimum of two years of actual
economic development experience for a
municipality. Deadline for applying is
December 29, 1995. Submit resume to Don
Frederick, city administrator, City of Olivia,
1009 W. Lincoln, Olivia, MN 56277. For
more information, call (612) 523-2361.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR. A multi -town economic and
tourism development office in southwest
Minnesota is seeking an individual to
anticipate, plan and lead member communi-
ties and position area for the future. The
ideal candidate will be a high energy,
creative individual who has vision,
including anticipation of telecommunica-
tions technologies and rural impact.
Requirements include a Bachelor's degree
in business/public administration, planning
or related field, and minimum of two years
experience in economic development.
Knowledge of finance, business and
development tools and plans required.
Should also possess effective verbal
communication skills. Bachelor's degree
may be substituted by additional two years
experience. Salary depends on qualifica-
tions. For job description, call (507) 637-
2315. Send detailed cover letter and resume
by December 31, 1995 to RADC Executive
Board, 610 East Bridge Street, PO Box 281,
Redwood Falls, MN 56283.
MIS TECi NICIAN. Red Wing is
actively seeking qualified applicants for the
position of manager information systems
technician. Applicants must have an
Associate's degree in computer technology
or equivalent. Knowledge of Novell
networks, Lotus, WordPerfect and Windows
is required. Demonstrated communication
skills with computer users a must. Three
years related experience is additionally
required. Must demonstrate lifting ability to
50 pounds. Starting salary to $35,000
depending on qualifications. A complete job
description, application and supplement
may be obtained by calling (612) 385-3600
or TDD (612) 388-6734 between 8 a.m. and
4:30 p.m. Mailed inquiries can be addressed
to Finance Department, City Hall, 315 West
Fourth Street, Red Wing, MN 55066. No
faxes accepted. Completed applications
must be received on or before Monday,
December 18, 1995, at 4:30 p.m.
PARK AND RECREATION DIREC-
TOR. Crosslake has an opening for a full-
time park and recreation director to start in
April 1996. Salary range is $23,000 to
$26,000 plus benefits, including medical
and dental insurance. A new community
center is under construction with a
scheduled completion date of July 1996.
Responsibilities include directing the
operations and programs of the park and
recreation department; managing the center;
and serving as liaison between the City
Council, the Park and Recreation Commis-
sion, and the park department employees
and volunteers. Requirements include a
degree in park and recreation or a related
field. Some previous experience is desired.
Deadline to apply is January 15, 1996. Send
resume, application letter, recommendations
and academic records to Councilmember
Ray Smith, City of Crosslake, HC 83, Box
114, Crosslake, MN 56442. Phone (218)
692-2688, fax (218) 692-2687.
Page 8 LMC Cities Bulletin
Municipal ads continued
For sale
AMBULANCES. Bloomington has
two ambulances for sale. One 1984 Ford
E350 Type II ambulance, and one 1987
Ford E350 Type III ambulance. Bids will be
accepted until January 25, 1996. Please call
(612) 948-8795 for information or bidding
forms.
BLEACHERS. Hoyt Lakes has used
Hussey brand maple bleachers for sale -
four sections of three rows each 14 feet
long, and two sections of five rows each 12
feet long. Contact Tom Ferris, City of Hoyt
Lakes, Recreation/Arena Department, 206
Kennedy Memorial Drive, Hoyt Lakes, MN
55750. Phone (218) 225-2226.
CONDENSERS. Hoyt Lakes has used
Halstead and Mitchell remote air-cooled
condensers for sale. Model 100-1A. Sold in
as is condition. Contact Tom Ferris, City of
Hoyt Lakes, Recreation/Arena Department,
206 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Hoyt Lakes,
MN 55750. Phone (218) 225-2226.
PUMPER. 1984 GMC pumper, 427
engine with straight five speed, 11,350
miles in service, FMC body, 1,000 gpm
single stage pump, 1,000 gallon booster
tank, two cross lays, Winco generator
Powcmight Model PE4000 electric start
2,250 watt. Two 500 watt Quartz telescopic
lights. This pumper will not be available
until mid -summer. Sealed bids must be
submitted to: City Clerk, PO Box 295,
Madison Lake, MN 56063 no later than 4
p.m. on February 16, 1996. Bids will be
opened at City Council meeting on
February 19, 1996 at 8 p.m. For information
Give your employees a choice
MN Department of Revenue
Thousands of Minnesota workers
qualify for the Earned Income Credit at
tax time. Spread the word: Your
employees who have one or more
children and earn less than $24,396 can
also choose to get part of next year's
credit in advance on their paychecks
this year through the Advance Earned
Income Credit. Individuals who are the
single wage earner in their household
and who don't expect major changes in
their household's income during the
year, may want to apply for the credit.
The Advanced Income Credit can
give your employees more money to
meet daily needs and pay the cost of
getting to work (transportation, day
care and clothing).
What can you do as an employer?
Tell employees about the credit,
so they can decide. Some Minnesota
businesses are promoting the credit
through notices by memo or e-mail, in
periodic mailings, employee newslet-
December 8, 1995
ters, paychecks, new hire packages and
orientations, and employee handbooks.
Give your employees the W-5
form when they ask for it. Participat-
ing employees must fill out a new W-5
form annually.
Compute the participating
employee's withholding using your
payroll software, payroll service
provider, or the Advance EIC tables.
You'll give the worker more money on
or to arrange an inspection, call (517) 243-
3511 and ask for Dave. Madison Lake
reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
TRUCKS. Bloomington has three
Peter Pirsch custom pumper trucks with
enclosed cabs for sale. Trucks are 1970,
1971 and 1972 models (one each). Bids will
be accepted until January 25, 1996. Please
call (612) 948-8795 for information or
bidding forms.
Miscellaneous
BINDERS. The League of Minnesota
Cities has available hundreds of two-inch,
three-ring binders to donate to your city or
organization. The binders are preprinted
but have never been used. If your organiza-
tion could use any number, contact Tim
Busse at the League of Minnesota Cities at
(612) 215-4031 or (800) 925-1122.EE
payday, but deduct from your federal
withholding deposit.
To get more information about the
Advance Earned Income Credit and
how to compute payments, call (800)
829-3676 and ask for Publication 15
(circular E). You can also order free
publicity materials for your employees:
posters, paycheck stuffers, drop-in ads
for employee newsletters and Forms
W-5. RE
Minnesota Municipal Board hires
new executive director
The Minnesota Municipal Board hired Ms. Christine M. Scotillo as
executive director --effective November 6, 1995. After receiving her law
degree in 1986, Scotillo worked with public school districts, educational
cooperatives and counties throughout the state, as well as suburban
municipalities. The Municipal Board anticipates a productive legislative
session this year and looks forward to working with other governmental
agencies and units in its continuing effort to provide efficient and vision-
ary service to the state. ER
Page 9
Lql
League of Minnesota Cities
145 University Avenue West
St. Paul, MN 55103
Phone: 612-281-1200
Fax: 612-281-1299
TDD: 612-281.1290
1-800.925-1122
The league of Minnesota Cities publishes
the Cities Bulletin weekly during the
Legislative session and bi-weekly during
the interim, the time between sessions.
Subscriptions: members -330; non-
members -345. Contact Publications
Department, League of Minnesota Cities.
Where to get information at
the Capitol
Copies of bills
House Chief Clerk's Office -
296-2314, Rm. 211 *
Secretary of Senate's Office -
296-2343, Rm. 231*
Bill status, authors, companion,
committee referral (by bill number,
author, or topic)
House Index - 296-6646,
Rm. 211*
Senate Index - 296-2887,
Rm. 231*
Weekly committee schedules, bill
introductions, and summaries of
committee and floor action
House Information Office -
296-2146, Rm. 175**
Senate Information Office -
296-0504, Rm. 231*
Recording of the following day's
committee schedule and agenda,
(after 4:30 p.m.)
"House Call" - 296-9283
Senate Hotline - 296-8088
To reach a member on the House
or Senate floor
House Sergeant at Arms -
296-4860
Senate Page Desk - 296-4159
To notify the governor's office of
your concerns
Governor Ame Carlson -
296-3391, Rm. 130*
*State Capitol, St. Paul, NIN 55155
**State Office Building. St. Paul 55155
All arca codes are 612
FIRST CLASS
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
St. Paul, MN
PERMIT NO. 3223
e2
Dwight Johnson
Mgr.
3400 P1 -:mouth Blvd
F I wfiou t h, MN 55447 1482
League of Minnesota Cities staff working with legislative issues
Jim Miller, Executive Director
Stan Peskar, General Counsel
Pensions
Gary Carlson, Director of Intergovernmental Relations
E-mail: GARYC2261aAOL.COM
General revenue sources for cities
Local government trust fund
Aid to cities
Property tax system
Ann Higgins, Intergovernmental Relations Representative
Telecommunications
Housing
Elections and ethics
Utility service districts
Joel Jamnik, Senior Intergovernmental Relations Representative
GroH2h management and land use
Environmental protection
Personnel and labor relations
Public safety
General municipal governance
Andrea Atherton, Intergovernmental Relations Representative
Mary Diedrich, Legislative Secretary
Mickey Marx, Legislative Secretary
Metropolitan Council
Working for the Region, Planning for the FYtture
December 8, 1995
Commissioner, Department of Transportation ?:
Commissioner, Pollution Control Agency
Commissioner, Department of Natural Resources
Indian Tribal Governments
County Board Chairs
County/City Park Commissioner Chairs
Chairs of Special Park Districts
Mayors and Town Board Chairs
Chairs, School District Boards
Re: Changes to Solicitation Materials Dated Oct. 30, 1995, for Federal Surface Transportation Program and
Transportation Enhancement Program
Dear Public Official:
This letter is being sent to alert you of a change in the criteria to evaluate STP and TEP projects. The Council has
accepted the recommended changes prepared by its Transportation Advisory Board to modify how the 50 incentive
points provided for communities to participate in the Livable Communities Program. The attached material
describes what must be done by cities, counties and agencies to receive the 50 points. Also attached is a model
resolution that counties can use to address the requirements.
Council staff will contact county officials to answer questions about the resolution process. Each county should
prepare and submit a resolution and, if necessary, other materials that illustrate how it will meet the requirements
for receiving bonus points. The agencies should work closely with each county to insure a timely and appropriate
response to the requirements. Monitoring the progress of the counties may be appropriate on the part of the
agencies.
The Metropolitan Council staff assigned to the Livable Communities program will assign points to each proposal
based on the revised procedures. Rural townships that have chosen to submit a resolution to participate in the
housing incentive program will be treated the same as cities. Rural townships that do not submit a resolution will
be evaluated based on the consistency of its most recent comprehensive plan reviewed and on file with the
Metropolitan Council.
The signed resolutions from the cities or counties must be received by Council staff no later than 4:00 p.m.,
February 9, 1996, or post marked by that time.
Should there be any questions, please contact one of the following staff members:
Livable Community Staff Transportation Staff
Tom McElveen 291-6306 Carl Ohm 229-2719
Chuck Ballentine 291-6521
Alex -Edmund DaHinten 291-6617
inc e ,
hn
Chair
CJ.jlm
TAB Staff
Emil Brandt 229-2721
2,10 Fast Fifth Strrrt Rt p-1 Tv inn to qs i ni _ i azn (91 1)) not .an90 r— noT _aggn Inn irTv 70T -none ]Vntrn T.,fn I in 91)o_s7an
INCENTINT FUNDING BONUS POINTS
The Incentive Funding Bonus Points are intended to provide stimulus for municipalities to supply
affordable and life -cycle housing to their citizens across the metropolitan area.
The Incentive Funding Bonus Points make this solicitation consistent with the Metropolitan Council's
Regional Blueprint and brings it into compliance with the Livable Communities Act: The Action
Step 5F.1 of the Regional Blueprint directs the Council to "Give priority for regional infrastructure
investments or expenditure of public dollars to communities that have implemented plans to provide
their share of the region's low- and moderate -income and life -cycle housing opportunities". Action
Step 5F3 further directs the Council to "take into account the progress made by cities toward life-
cycle and affordable housing goals when malting discretionary funding decisions". The Metropolitan
Livable Communities Act (Minnesota Statutes 473.25) specifies that "The [Metropolitan] council,
when making discretionary funding decisions, shall give consideration to a municipality's participation
in the local housing incentives program".
The Council used similar funding selection incentives for housing performance under Policy 39 of the
Metropolitan Development Guide. Policy 39 was formerly applied to transportation projects receiving
funds from the Federal Aid Urban Program (FAU).
Fifty points will be azirned as a bonus in the selection process, to projects to be implemented in a
city, if that city has adopted a resolution to participate in the local housing incentives program
(LHIP) by February 9, 1996 --whether the project is sponsored by a city, a county or other agency.
County sponsored projects in more than one city will be assigned fifty points if at least 20% of the
project is located in a city that has adopted a resolution to participate in LHIP by February 9, 1996;
and the county adopts a resolution supporting the Livable Communities Act by the same date;
pledges to encourage communities in its jurisdiction to participate in LHIP; and indicates how the
county, or another county entity (such as the HRA), will assist municipalities that choose to
participate in LHIP, to meet their negotiated affordable and life -cycle housing goals.
Agency sponsored projects in more than one city will be assigned fifty points if at least 20`/0 of the
project is located in a cit., that has adopted a resolution to participate in LHIP by February 9, 1996;
and the agency works with the county in which the project is located, to assure that the county:
adopts a resolution supporting the Livable Communities Act by the same date; pledges to encourage
communities in its jurisdiction to participate in LHIP; and indicates how the county, or another
count), entity (such as the HRA), rill assist municipalities that choose to participate in LHIP, to meet
their negotiated affordable and life -cycle housing goals.
Townships that are wholly within the Metropolitan Urban Service Area and cities, are encouraged
to adopt resolutions to participate in the local housing incentives program and to sign housing goals
agreements. Rural townships that have an adopted comprehensive plan consistent with the Council's
rural policies, will receive fifty points.
After a city adopts a resolution to participate in the local housing incentives program (LHIP), the
city is expected to follow through and negotiate its housing goals, sign the housing agreement with
the Metropolitan Council, devise an action plan and implement it. The Metropolitan Council through
its Office of Local Assistance %; ill monitor each step and report to the TAB the city's progress or lack
of progress on this process; and the TAM procedure for continuing project review would be applied.
The projects to receive these bonus points include principal and minor aerial highways, transit,
bikeway and pedestrian prt
roposals within the Surface Transportation Program (STP); and historic,
scenic and en%ironmental undertakings, bike and pedestrian trails within the Enhancement category.
For transit, if a project is implemented in one or more communities, it will be assigned the points
Corresponding to the communities involved; but if a project is not. implemented in a specific
community or communities, and rather benefits the entire region because of its region -wide nature,
the project will be assigned fifty points. Opt outs provide subregional service and where the project
would facilitate such service, they would be treated as if they provide regional service. Transit service
or facilities that focus on one or more communities, would be evaluated on the participation of such
communities, it.: a local circulator service. CMAQ projects are excluded because they address a
federal objective to meet clean air goals.
The Metropolitan Council Transportation staff %;U determine the minimum 2070 extension of a
project in a city and convey thi; information to the Metropolitan Council Office. of Local Assistance
The Office of Local Assistance staff will be responsible for assigning these fifty bonus points
:ring the evaluation process and this information will be available to the TAC Funding and
Programming Subcommittee when scores are compiled.
IST SOLTAB
H:\Ilbrary\commundv\adl2G595.ist
PROJECT AREA
APPLICANTS
CITY
F MULTI -CITY
city
50 POINTS IF:
City ado Pis resolution participate articiP ate m LHIP
County
50 POINTS IF:
50 POINTS IF:
• City in which the project is to be implemented
• Cities in which the project is to be
has signed a resolution to participate in LHIP
implemented have signed a resolution to
and
participate in LHIP
• County adopts resolution supporting LCA and
• Or, if at least 20% of the project is
located in a city that has adopted a
• County pledges to encourage communities in
resolution to participate in the LHIP and
its jurisdiction to participate in LHIP and
• County adopts resolution supporting LCA
• County indicates how the county, or another
and
county entity (i.e., HRA), will assist
municipalities that choose to participate in
• County pledges to encourage
LHIP, to meet their negotiated affordable and
communities in its jurisdiction to
life -cycle housbr g goals.
participate in LHIP and
• County indicates how the county, or
another county entity (i.e., HRA), will
assist municipalities that choose to
participate in LHIP, to meet their
negotiated affordable and life -cycle
housing goals.
Agency
50 POINTS IF:
50 POINTS IF:
• City in which the project is to be
• Cities in which the project is to be
implemented, has signed a resolution to
implemented have signed a resolution to
participate in LHIP and
participate in LHIP
• Agency works with coun in which the
• Or at least 20% of the project is located
project is located to assure that the county:
in a city that has adopted a resolution to
- Adopts resolution supporting LCA
participate in LHIP and
- Pledges to encourage communities in its
jurisdiction to participate in LHIP
Agency works with coun in which the
- Indicates how the county, or another county
project is located to assure that the
entity (i.e., HRA), will assist municipalities
county:
that choose to participate in LHIP, to meet
- Adopts resolution supporting LCA
their negotiated affordable and life -cycle
- Pledges to encourage communities in
housing goals.
its jurisdiction to participate in LHIP
- Indicates how the county, or another
county entity (i.e., HRA), will assist
municipalities that choose to
participate in LHIP, to meet their
negotiated affordable and life -cycle
housing goals
H:\Ilbrary\commundv\adl2G595.ist
RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE
LIVABLE COMMUNITIES ACT
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act (1995 Minnesota Laws Chapter 255)
establishes a Metropolitan Livable Communities Fund which is intended to address housing and other
development issues facing the metropolitan area defined by Minnesota Statutes section 473.121; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Livable Communities Fund, comprising the Tax Base Revitalization
Account, the Livable Communities Demonstration Account and the Local Housing Incentives
Account, is intended to provide certain funding and other assistance to metropolitan area
municipalities; and
WHEREAS, a metropolitan area municipality is not eligible to receive grants or loans under the
Metropolitan Livable Communities Fund or eligible to receive certain polluted sites cleanup funding
from the Minnesota Department of Trade and Economic Development unless the municipality is
participating in the Local Housing Incentives Account Program under Minnesota Statutes section
473.254; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council has adopted an incentive funding policy for the ISTEA
solicitation package that requires any county application for a project in a city or multiple cities that
the county must: adopt a resolution supporting the Livable Communities Act; pledge to encourage
communities in its jurisdiction to participate in the Local Housing Incentives Program; and indicate
how the county, or another county entity, will assist municipalities that choose to participate in the
Local Housing Incentives Program to meet their negotiated affordable and life -cycle housing goals;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the [specific county] Board of Commissioners
supports the Livable Communities Act; pledges to encourage communities within [specific county]
to participate in the Local Housing Incentives Program; and hereby designates [specific office,
department or organization*] to assist municipalities that choose to participate in the Local Housing
Incentives Program, to meet their negotiated affordable and life -cycle housing goals.
Board Chai6% \�
By:
Clerk
* The designated office, department or organization could be: in Anoka, the Office of Community
Development; in Carver, the County HRA; in Dakota, the County HRA; in Hennepin, the Office of
Planning and Development; in Ramsey, the Community Development Department, and in Scott and
Washington, the County HRA. If another office or department is deemed more appropriate than those
mentioned, please feel free to designate such department. If you have any questions please call A-E.
S. DaHinten at 291-6617.
Metropolitan Council
Working for the Region, Planning for the Future
December 12, 1995
LIVABLE COMMUNITIES CITIES
Dear Local Official:
Congratulations! You are one of 100 cities participating in the Local Housing Incentives Account Program of
the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act. Over 91 percent of the region's population lives in cities such as
Yours.
Between now and December 15 we will be finalizing the goal setting process. Following that, we will hold
a public hearing regarding goal agreements December 21, 1995, at 6:00 p.m. in the Metropolitan Council
Chambers at Mears Park Centre, 230 E. Fifth Street, in St. Paul. The public hearing record will remain open
until January 8, 1996, for additional comment. The Council is expected to adopt the goals on January 11, to
meet the statutory deadline of January 15, 1996.
With the completion of sign-up process for the Livable Communities Program, we have turned our attention
to the action planning phase which will detail how communities accomplish their affordable and life cycle
housing goals. It is at this time that discussions about multi city clustering will be most helpful. As action
plans take shape, I urge communities to look to their neighbors and think strategically about the opportunities
that a cluster arrangement provides.
Metropolitan Council staff has been doing a great deal of cluster work, particularly with Dakota County
communities, through the Dakota County Housing and Redevelopment Authority. We would be glad to
facilitate discussion and share with you what we have learned from that process. The Metropolitan Council
would be willing to sponsor or cosponsor sessions on cluster planning in your area. Please call Tom
McElveen at 291-6306 for more information.
Thanks for your hard work in 1995, and I look forward to our continuing Livable Communities activities
throughout the year ahead.
Sincerely,
0-0 Korr,—
Craig R Rapp
Director, Community Development Division
CRR/kp
cc: Metropolitan Council Members
Jim Solem, Metropolitan Council Regional Administrator
230 East Fifth Street St. Paul, Minnesota 55101-1634 (612) 291-6359 Fax 291-6550 TDD/TTY 291-0904 Metro Info Line 229-3780
Plymouth Human Rights Commission
December 7, 1995
Minutes
Present: Gary Anderson, Bill Dix, Becky Ribich, Harvey Guttmann, Laurie Levi,
Earl Peterson, Claudelle Carruthers, Ginny Clark, Mitzi Heath,
Assistant City Manager Kathy Lueckert
Absent: Jackie Fraedrich, Lisa Memberr
Call to Order
Becky Ribich called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM.
Approval of Agenda
Becky Ribich moved, seconded by Laurie Levi, to discuss the 1995 Human Rights
Commission Annual Report under Old Business. The motion passed, and the agenda was
accepted.
Approval of Minutes
The minutes of the November 1995 meeting were approved as presented
Old Business
Annual Report. Laurie Levi presented her draft of the Commission's 1995 Annual
Report. She mentioned that she was concerned about how to discuss what the
Commission had or had not accomplished based on the 1995 Work Plan. Commission
members suggested that Laurie include in the report the various conferences attended and
speakers heard during the past year. Laurie will make the revisions, and the report will be
distributed prior to the January meeting.
1996 Work Plan. Becky Ribich stated that at the last meeting the Commission had
agreed on a theme of "Plymouth: A Peaceable Community" for 1996. Gary Anderson
stated that the focus on conflict resolution would talk about a continuum, from informal
discussions to formal mediation. He said that he thinks the Commission should focus on
one thing and concentrate on doing it very well. The Commission could then build on this
success. He presented an outline he had developed.
The Commission then discussed focusing on helping people understand and cope with
abusive relationships of all types --domestic, racial, sexual, neighborhoods, etc. Mitzi
Heath stated that all abusive behavior has its roots in the objectivization of people, and
that helping to overcome this is a natural part of human rights. Bill Dix stated that he
doesn't want the Commission to lose sight of addressing racism and diversity issues.
The Commission agreed to spend the January meeting developing the message about
preventing abusive relationships. The communications plan could then be developed.
y.3a
Willow Creek. Becky Ribich read the letter from the Willow Creek resident
concerning the report she received from the Commission. General discussion followed
about the best way to resolve her concerns, and Earl Peterson will make changes in the
final report. The Commission agreed to extend a general invitation to the resident to
attend a Human Rights Commission meeting at her convenience.
Family Conference. Claudelle Carruthers reported on the Multi -Racial Family
Conference at which she passed out the brochures and pogs. She said that the
Commission's information and presence received a very positive response.
New Business
Becky Ribich reported that she had spoken with Mort Ryweck, of the League of
Minnesota Human Rights Commissions. She stated that Mort reiterated his willingness to
help the Commission in any way.
Mitzi Heath passed out a brochure on an upcoming conference about successfully
recruiting and hiring Native Americ2ns.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 PM.
`r
f
i
Mr. Eric J. Blank, Director, Parks and Recreation
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Mr. Blank,
17105 19th Ave. North
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dec. 6, 1995
100
I am writing in response to your Dec. 1 letter about the proposed trail improvement.
Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend the sessions you have scheduled for Dec. 12 so,
therefore, I appreciate this opportunity to express my reaction to your letter.
I have recently moved to Plymouth and enjoy the city and its amenities . When we
purchased our home we noted the existing, improved trail directly behind our property. It
is a macadam surface and is in excellent condition. I am surprised that you are not
showing it on your trail map (Segment 9, Figure 6).
We would have little reason - actually, no reason - to use the proposed trail since the
existing trail already connects the trail along Rt. 101 to the north -south segment of trail
emanating from Holly Lane. I have observed many other trail users use this trail to go
from the Holly Lane area to Rt. 101 and the reverse. Why would the City want to expend
funds to place another trail in my front yard when there is already one connecting the 2
locations off my back yard?
I understand any property owner being willing to have a trail placed adjacent to someone
else's lard, but do the property owners and taxpayers of Plymouth know or understand
that money is being spent to develop a trail parallel to and within 75 yards of an existing
trail? Please consider whether it makes any sense to expend funds to duplicate what
already exists? And, how are people going to know that it will be a duplication when the
trail maps don't show the existing trail?
Please also consider whether it makes sense or is it even fair to have trails running both
across the front and across the back of any individual's property.
I'm sure you already encounter the inconsiderate dog walker from around the corner who
decides your lot is OK for leaving a deposit. We already suffer from that going to our
mailbox or putting out the trash and recyclables without encouraging; more such traffic.
19th Avenue North is a relatively quiet street by most standards - even from my viewpoint
after having moved from a much smaller locality in a much smaller neighborhood. This is
the main reason I was attracted to this neighborhood in the first place, not to mention the
trail in the back yard. Although I am supportive of improvements and enjoy existing trails
myself, it is difficult to understand why this duplication in a non -congested area is
necessary.
I respectfully submit that this proposal is inappropriate and should be disregarded.
Sincerely,
Mark Vunablood
cc: Ms.
Joy Tierney, Mayor
Mr.
David Anderson, Council, Ward 1
Mr.
Tim Wold, Council, Council, Ward 2
Mr.
Nicholas Granath, Council, Ward 3
Mr.
John Edson, Council, Ward 4
Ms.
Carole Helliwell, Council, At Large
Mr.
Chuck Lymangood, Council, At Large
I, -
CITY OF
PLN,MOUTH
December 9, 1995
Mr. Jerry Chmielewski
12410 26th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Mr. Chmielewski:
Your letter addressed to the mayor and city council members was forwarded to our
department and prompted me to respond to your inquiries. The property tax system in
Minnesota is a complicated one and I will attempt to explain as eloquently as possible
its structure. January 2 of each year is known as the assessment date. The
responsibility of the assessing staff is to determine the market value of each property
within its jurisdiction. The value is established through a mass appraisal system which
compares each property to the sale of similar type properties as well as studying the
sale activity within the jurisdiction and the immediate neighborhood. October 1
through September 30 is the time frame to study sale activity for the upcoming
assessment date each year. The average home in Plymouth (existing construction) has
appreciated approximately 15% in the past two years. Some areas in Plymouth have
appreciated more or less than the average. Each Spring a valuation notice is sent to all
property owners displaying the January 2 assessment value. The valuation notice states
if a property owner has any questions or concerns to contact the assessing staff. An
appointment can be made to have the property reexamined to determine if indeed an
adjustment is justified. If the property owner still has concerns with the market value
the valuation notice explains how to appeal to the Local Board of Review and the time
limitation of the appeal process for that particular assessment year.
Enclosed is a value history of your property. The increase in value between any two
consecutive assessment years is based on what similar properties are selling for in the
real estate market. Our records indicate that you purchased your home for $77,500 in
1982. Not knowing exactly what homes you are referring to I took it upon myself to
furnish you with the sale prices (if recorded) and the changes between the 1994
assessment an the 1995 assessment of homes in your general area. If you would like to
PLYI,SOUTH
3•; r PLY1.SDUTH EO'JLE`ti'AP,D o PLYL!3UTH. t�11{.'JES07A 55447-14b2 • 1ELFP;-
Mr. Jerry Chmielewski
December 9, 1995
Page - 2
contact our office for further information or to schedule a review of your property for
the January 2, 1996 assessment, please do not hesitate to contact me at 509-5355.
Sincerely,
Janice Olsson, RFS
Senior Appraiser
cc: Dwight Johnson, City Manager
Dale Hahn, Finance Director
Nancy Bye, City Assessor
NOTE: FLASHING FIELD INDICATES LMV OR OLD HOUSE @
,Q 51/ /g o O ,�7 %, Sire?
su-ELC-cr
ASHIST018914DEC1195
9512
ACTIVITY
CITY OF
PLYMOUTH
ASSESSMENT
HISTORY INQUIRY
�
�b
PIN 23 - 118 -
22
-
33 - 0071
YEAR
0
SUBRECORD 0
LOT
000 BLK
000
SUB/RLS LLS23QQ330071
TRACT
ADDRESS 12410 26TH
AVE
N
STATUS
A
OWNER
NAME GERALD
F
CHMIELEWSKI &
JANET A NELSON
DIVISION
AS QL E
S P EX
A
%
P
YR YR Q
R C USE DEF
G
PT
MH
LAND
BLDG
TOTAL
IMP OWN
CH S ADJ
95 93
1
N
R
H
19000
62900
81900
100
94 93
1
N
R
H
17000
58700
75700
100
B
+05
93 93
1
N
R
H
17000
55100
72100
100
B
+05
92 89
1
N
R
H
17000
52700
69700
100
91 89
1
N
R
H
16000
52700
68700
100 100
B
+03
90 89
1 P
N
R
H
16000
52600
68600
100
B
+03
89 89
1
N
R
H
16000
51000
67000
100
NOTE: FLASHING FIELD INDICATES LMV OR OLD HOUSE @
,Q 51/ /g o O ,�7 %, Sire?
1. 23-118-22-33-0072
1994 EMV
$104,300
1995 EMV
$111,700
Sold 4/78
$56,590
Sold 3/88
$92,000
2. 23-118-22-33-0073
1994 EMV $86,500
1995 EMV $93,100
No sale information
3. 23-118-22-33-0038
1994 EMV $113,200
1995 EMV $117,200
Sold 11/76 $46,000
4. 23-118-22-33-0039
1994 EMV $89,400
1995 EMV $93,400
Sold 3/85 $74,000
Sold 10/92 588,250
5. 23-118-22-33-0070
1994 EMV $104,100
1995 EMV $112,100
No sale information
6. 23-118-22-33-0069
1994 EMV $71,200
1995 EMV $77,200
Sold 2/95 $78,000
7. 23-118-22-33-0068
1994 EMV
95,700
1995 EMV
$102,300
Sold 5/79
$61,500
Sold 6/80
$69,000
Sold 6/84
$77,266
8. 26-118-22-22-0012
1994 EMV
$92,300
1995 EMV
$94,300
Sold 12/85
$43,000
Sold 10/87
$38,900
Sold 10/91
$86,000
2600 Norwood Lane North
2620 Norwood Lane North
2615 Norwood Lane North
2605 Norwood Lane North
12400 26th Avenue North
2615 Magnolia Lane North
2625 Magnolia Lane North
12425 26th Avenue North
9. 26-118-22-22-0011
1994 EMV $85,300
1995 EMV $85,900
Sold 11/76 $39,500
Sold 5/91 $89,500
10. 26-118-22-22-0010
1994 EMV $66,400
1995 EMV $68,400
No sale information
12415 26th Avenue North
12401 26th Avenue North
11. 26-118-22-22-0006 12309 26th Avenue North
1994 EMV
$57,600
1995 EMV
$59,600
Sold 8/77
$35,500
Sold 6/87
$62,900
Sold 2/92
$60,000
12. 26-118-22-22-0034
1994 EMV $78,300
1995 EMV $80,300
No sale information
12305 26th Avenue North
IL
0-3,
ZO
,��4b
:41
IA4
A)
VL
-11Z
December 11, 1995
John Miller
4535 Upland Lane North
Plymouth, MN 55446
Dear Mr. Miller,
CITY OF
PUMOUTR
I am responding to the letter you addressed to Mayor Tierney. In your letter, you
asked who you could write to and what can be done about the school system increase in
taxes. I suggest that you write the Wayzata Board of Education and the Superintendent
of Schools for the Wayzata School District 284. The mailing address is:
Wayzata Public Schools District No. 284
P.O. Box 660
Wayzata MN 55391
They should be able to provide you with information about the bond issue that was
approved last year, and the effects it has on your taxes for this year and future years.
I have also enclosed an article from the June 1, 1994 Sun/Sailor newspaper that was
printed about the Wayzata Schools bond issue.
If I can provide you with further information, please feel free to call me at 509-5301.
Sincerely,
Dale E. Hahn
Finance Director
DEH:jk
cc: Mayor and City Council
Dwight D. Johnson, City Manager
PLYMOUTH a'Ri,rutiJit(Tlare'7n1it4'
3400 PLYMOUTH 30ULEVARn • PI YN1011TH nAmjmFcnTA rsnn7_1nP-.) ,.- r,-
$64 miflian bond �ssae -put to vote June 7
New high school
tops District 284
improvements list
Last in a series of installments
examining a $64 million bond
referendum in Wayzata School
District Zt14.
By Jay Maxwell
Staff Writer
Residents of District 284 will
vote Tuesday, June 7, on a plan
that — by increasing property
taxes — would sell up to $64
million in bonds to build a new
high school, remodel two
schools, and pay for other
improvements.
The project, the largest ever
for the district, is designed to
ready schools for waves of
students expected to overcrowd
the district's secondary schools
by 1996, and elementary schools
the following year.
While officials in other fast-
growing school districts scram-
ble to find space for students,
Wayzata School Board directors
hope voters will approve a plan
that offers preventative
medicine for a space -crunch
they say is imminent.
The crisis may be two years
away, but signs of schools ready
to burst at the seams are evident
today, said Howard Casmey,
chair of the School Board.
"The junior highs are crowd-
ed right now," said Casmey.
"The high school is crowded in
the corridors. The young adults
have real trouble getting from
class to class."
The district uses two trailers
as portable classrooms at Bir-
chview Elementary School in
Plymouth. Casmey said the the
roofs leak, the floors sag, and
they need to be replaced with
permanent classrooms.
Up to $1.5 million of the bonds
would be used at Birchview to
add more classroom space, a
media center, and a computer
lab.
Enrollment in the district has
increased steadily since the
mid-1980s, and officials say con-
servative estimates predict that
the district will grow at 3.5 per-
cent annually at least over the
next 10 years. .
According to district projec-
tions, total enrollment is ex-
pected to climb from 7,717 this
year to 8,982 in the 2000-01 school
year.
With an average of 400 new
houses in each of the last few
years and enrollment up 200 to
300 students each year so far this
decade, even critics of the
School Board's plan agree that
the district is running out of
room.
According to the Minnesota
Department of Education,
Wayzata
School district
Bond Referendum
June 7
Polls open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For referendum results; call (no
charge):
• Sun -Sailor: 896-4763.
(Open from 11 p.m. Tuesday. June 7
to 11 p.m. Thursday. June 9)
Wayzata's $64 million bond issue
is the third-largest presented by
a school district this year.
Voters in the Rosemount -Apple
Valley -Eagan district approved
a $78.8 million issue in March;
residents of North St. Paul re-
jected a $73.3 million proposal
last month.
So far, attendance has been
low at public meetings con-
ducted on District 284's plan,
though there has been plenty of
discussion. To date, there is no
known organized opposition to
the proposal.
The most controversial aspect
of the plan has been the size of
the new high school. At max-
imum capacity, the building
would house 3,200 students,
making it the state's largest.
Dick Harmon, a 29 -year
teacher in the district and
Wayzata City Council member,
said most U.S. educators are
moving away from big high
schools. He said By its sheer
size, the 487,(M -square -foot
building would make it difficult
for teachers to maintain order
and the personal rapport they
now have with students.
A social -studies teacher, Har-
mon said he will not support the
referendum, though he has
backed every proposal the
district has introduced during
the last three decades.
The way Harmon sees it, the
School Board has correctly iden-
tified a space problem, but has
the wrong solution.
"This is not like changing the
English curriculum, where you
can change it again in a year,"
he said. "When you build a
building this size you can't go
back and change your mind.
"I have no doubt that 20 years
from now people will say, 'Why
did we build this?' "
For more than a year, school
officials have polished plans to
build a $52.6 million high school
that would feature two buildings
joined by common areas on a
college -style campus on half of a
161 -acre site east of Elm Creek
Golf Course in undeveloped nor-
thwest Plymouth.
In March, the School Board
paid $2.2 million for 129 acres of
the site, a portion of which it
plans to develop jointly with the
city of Plymouth. The partner-
ship, which may include shared
athletic facilties and a city
nature preserve, hinges on a
joint -powers agreement that —
because of delays over how to
divide the land — will not be ap-
proved prior to the June 7 vote,
said Superintendent David
Landswerk.
"But I'm confident it's going
to come together when the board
meets June 15," said
Landswerk.
Casmey said the school's size
has been a concern of the board,
but with students in grades nine
and 10 located in one wing, and
11th- and 12th -graders in the
other, the building is really two
schools within one.
"To say a school is
automatically flawed because it
is big underestimates our ability
to manage the building," said
Casmey, a former Minnesota
commissioner of education.
"That's like saying nothing
should be big." he said. "Is the
University of Minnesota doing a
poor job of educating students
because it's one of the 10 biggest
college campuses in the United
States? Of course not."
VOTE: To Page 19A
C
Vote: Public forum on bond June 2
rom Page IA
The plan has also been
•iticized by some as excessive.
,ie district's own statistics
tow that when the high school
)ens in February 1997, enroll-
ent would be more than 600
udents below the building's
aximum capacity.
District demographers
edict that by the 2000-01
hool year there will be 2,817
idents at the high school, 383
glow capacity. Officials
y projections beyond 2006 are
less reliable because it is dif-
ficult to predict development
patterns.
Casmey said no one can be
certain whether the new high
school will ever reach full
capacity, but he said he is confi-
dent it will fall between 2,800 and
3,000 students.
Landswerk and Casmey say
the plan is actually cost-
effective because it creates
room in all present schools and
eliminates the need to seek
another bond issue this decade
to build an eighth elementary
64 Million Bond Referendum in District 284
Where to Vote Jure 7
recinct 1
Wayzata
City Hall
600 Rice Street
Wayzata
'recinct II
Peace
Lutheran
Church
695 County
Road 101 N.
Plymouth
recinct III
Christ
Memorial
Lutheran Church
13501 Sunset Trail
Plymouth
CORCORAN MAPLE GR
MEDINA ri
PLYMOUTH I
INFORMATION: 476-3100
Polls open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 7
?URCE: WAYZATA SCHOOL DISTRICT 284
PlymoutlVlMrysats/Orono/Long Lake SuneSallor/Wednesday, June 1, 1994 19A
building.
And with a $2.57 million
remodeling project at the cur-
rent high school, which would be
converted to a middle school,
the district will solve secondary
space problems at the two junior
highs, they say.
Harmon said the plan creates
too much excess capacity before
it is needed, and could create an
unforeseen surge in open
enrollment.
Casmey said officials have not
compiled projections on open
enrollment, added they don't ex-
pect a significant rise in incom-
ing non-resident students.
Casmey said it is crucial that
the bond be approved at a time
when the district can borrow
money at comparitively low in-
terest rates.
"We're looking at the lowest
interest rates in years," he said.
"In the long run, this is a real
cost -saver."
Equally important, he said, is
for voters to approve the
renewal of two excess levies that
generate $9.1 million in revenue
— about one-quarter of the
district's general -fund budget.
The money, which is above and
beyond that provided by the
state, can only be used to pay for
day -today expenses.
Officials says bonds would not
be issued to pay for any con-
struction work unless voters
agree through a November
referendum to renew the cur-
rent funding level.
A public forum to accept com-
ments on the bond proposal is
set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 2, in
the cafeteria at Wayzata High
School, 305 Vicksburg Lane in
Dt.,.r.nr,rl,
$64 Million Bond Referendum June 7 - Vote
What the money would pay for in District 284: ❑ _ ❑
Peace
Lutheran
1
✓ 552.61 MILLION
✓ $2.57 M LION
Churcn
1
o.
:Plymouth for, up to 3,200 students in
into one of three middle schools
Coun Road 6
I-
✓ $4.3 MILLION
✓ $1.5 MILLION
Replace and update computers in
Christ
ORONO
acquired in northwestern Plymouth .
t
I o Memonal
for new senior high.
1
I Lutheran
IChurch
WAYZATA
1
C
Wayzata
I t
I
1 MINNETONKA
highschool.
cary
I
Hall
! rl _ rI
INFORMATION: 476-3100
Polls open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 7
?URCE: WAYZATA SCHOOL DISTRICT 284
PlymoutlVlMrysats/Orono/Long Lake SuneSallor/Wednesday, June 1, 1994 19A
building.
And with a $2.57 million
remodeling project at the cur-
rent high school, which would be
converted to a middle school,
the district will solve secondary
space problems at the two junior
highs, they say.
Harmon said the plan creates
too much excess capacity before
it is needed, and could create an
unforeseen surge in open
enrollment.
Casmey said officials have not
compiled projections on open
enrollment, added they don't ex-
pect a significant rise in incom-
ing non-resident students.
Casmey said it is crucial that
the bond be approved at a time
when the district can borrow
money at comparitively low in-
terest rates.
"We're looking at the lowest
interest rates in years," he said.
"In the long run, this is a real
cost -saver."
Equally important, he said, is
for voters to approve the
renewal of two excess levies that
generate $9.1 million in revenue
— about one-quarter of the
district's general -fund budget.
The money, which is above and
beyond that provided by the
state, can only be used to pay for
day -today expenses.
Officials says bonds would not
be issued to pay for any con-
struction work unless voters
agree through a November
referendum to renew the cur-
rent funding level.
A public forum to accept com-
ments on the bond proposal is
set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 2, in
the cafeteria at Wayzata High
School, 305 Vicksburg Lane in
Dt.,.r.nr,rl,
$64 Million Bond Referendum June 7 - Vote
What the money would pay for in District 284: ❑ _ ❑
• $150,000 house —
.YES NO
✓ 552.61 MILLION
✓ $2.57 M LION
w.New.two-wing high school in
RemodelWayzata High School
:Plymouth for, up to 3,200 students in
into one of three middle schools
grades 9-12.
for. 750 students in grades 6-8.
✓ $4.3 MILLION
✓ $1.5 MILLION
Replace and update computers in
Purchase 80 acres of farmland
district classrooms, computer labs
acquired in northwestern Plymouth .
and media centers. Replace video
for new senior high.
equipment, upgrade building com-
munication systems, construct a dis-
✓ $1 MILLION
trict-wide computer network.
Computer technology at
e $400,OW house
highschool.
✓ $1.51 MILLION
Remodel Birchview Elementary ,
— $784
School in Plymouth.
Source: Wayzata School Dia9ict 284
Bond's tai, impact
According to calcula-
tions by Wayzata School
District 284, here's how the
proposed $64 million bond
issue is estimated to in-
crease annual homeowner
property taxes in the dis-
trict:
• $50,000 house (estima-
ted market value) — $42
annual increase.
* $75,010 house — $66
increase.
• $100,000 house — $108
increase.
• $125,000 house — $150
increase.
• $150,000 house —
$193
increase.
• $175,000 house —
$235
increase.
• $200,000 house
— $277
increase.
• $250,000 house
— $361
increase.
9 $300,000 house
— $446
increase.
• $350,000 house
— $530
increase.
e $400,OW house
— $615
increase.
• $500,000 house
— $784
increase.
to $1 million house
—
$1,628 increase.
f uR n off tAe c
Violence is a learned behavior. It can be unlearn
N
ed.
Mayor's Office
Cita of Plymouth
John Miller
4535 Upland Lane
Plymouth, MN 55446
Mayor,
I am in shock over my new "Proposed Property Tax" statement.
Overall it went up 19%. This is crazy. Nobody gets 190/10 raises
each year. My school district taxes went up by 31 %, The
information I got. before we voted on the last. school bond was
that that bond was not suppose to raise our taxes.
-I understand that the City of Plymouth tax only «gent up .8%
and that it is the building of the high school that caused the main
increase. So, i would like to know who I can write to and what
can we do about the school systems outrageous increase in tax
revenue this year.
John Miller
2' q - d
December 12, 1995
David Talen
13300 35th Ave. N.
Plymouth, MN 55441
CI1V OF
PLYMOUTFt
L • 1 1' ' •ZIUVOWN
Dear Mr. Talen:
I am responding to your letter to Mayor Joy Tierney concerning the completion of Xenium
Lane between 37th Avenue and County Road 9. Plymouth has adopted a Transportation Plan
which indicates the necessary roadways to provide a traffic network for the development of
properties in accordance with the approved Land Use Plan. As is the case with many other
roads in the City, they are completed as development takes place. The completion of
Xenium Lane is being done with the development of the land between 37th Avenue and
Vinewood Lane.
The first portion of Xenium Lane between Northwest Boulevard and County Road 9 was
constructed in 1982. The development plans for this area, which includes the Northwest
Business Campus, high density residential, and single family residential, indicated traffic
projections which would require a four lane roadway. The portions of Xenium Lane which
have previously been constructed are four lanes in width. Your letter states that Xenium
Lane is the only access to your development. This is correct, but Xenium Lane also serves
as a major element in the City's transportation system to serve all the other surrounding uses,
including the Radisson Hotel and the medical Complex in the Northwest Business Campus.
Since it was known that Xenium Lane would be a major four lane roadway, your residential
development was not permitted to have homes with direct access to the street. The
residential streets which serve your development were required as part of the planning
process. To provide for the traffic needs of this area, the portion of Xenium Lane under
construction is the same four lane width as the previously constructed portions of the street.
The City does not have the option of establishing a 30 m.p.h. speed limit on the road as
requested in your letter. This option is only available to the City if there is a house each 100
feet along both sides of the street. This is not the case with Xenium Lane. Minnesota law
requires the City to request the Minnesota Department of Transportation to review the street
design, traffic flow, and hazards along the roadway and establish the appropriate speed limit.
Currently, that speed limit has been established at 40 m.p.h. As traffic continues to increase
with development of the area, there is a possibility that studies will indicate that the speed
limit should be lowered.
Di VA Ant I-ru n m.... .: i:.(m/ T.. 1':.... TALRN.11fN'
David Talen
Page Two
There is no proposal to remove the existing "All -Way" stop at the intersection of Xenium
Lane and 34th Avenue. The purpose of Xenium Lane is to provide the necessary access into
and out of the area. This access is not only for the single family residential properties, but
for the apartments and the Northwest Business Campus. Since this is the design of the street,
other stop signs as you suggest would be contrary to the purpose of the street.
As you stated in your letter, a path is proposed along Xenium Lane. Funding for this path
was part of the bond issue approved by the voters in 1995. Construction plans for the path
are being developed at this time and construction is proposed in 1996.
The major traffic use for Xenium Lane was known and proposed as part of the City planning
process for this area. In order that Xenium Lane could serve its planned purpose,
developments were required to provide the necessary supporting street system. Xenium Lane
has been used as a buffer for the various land uses and placed as a divider to reduce the
likelihood that traffic will filter through the neighborhoods. Xenium Lane must function as
planned in the land use and transportation plans or other transportation problems will be
created. If you would like to discuss the function of Xenium Lane in more detail, please do
not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Fred G. Moore, P.E.
Director of Public Works
cc: Y.Ahy Lueckert, Assistant City Manager (95-50)
November 20, 1995
Mayor Joy Tierney
17915 20th Avenue N
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Mayor Tierney,
We were excited that the last summer's referendum to save the wetland areas and expand
Plymouth's network of biking and walking paths was approved. We are quite disappointed,
however, on another matter that has been a topic of discussion within our neighborhood.
It seems that there is a proposal to complete Xenium Lane between 37th avenue and Rockford
Road. While I am in favor of completing this stretch of roadway (as it is being done now), I
strongly object to turning Xenium into a four lane road with a posted speed limit of 40 miles per
hour. My opposition to the proposal stems from several facts.
First, the traffic to the Radisson hotel is already heavy in the morning as both employees and
those attending meetings rush to get to their scheduled events. This increase in flow coincides
with the children ,going to the bus stop. While this may not seem to differentiate our
neighborhood from others, remember that Xenium is the only way in and out of our
neighborhood.
Second, with the completion of Xenium, those that wish to avoid 494 congestion will now use
Xenium as a cut through to Highway 55. With no stop signs to slow traffic, our street could
become a Northwest Boulevard where one can frequently witness speeds of 55 mph.
Finally, until the paths are complete, the shoulders of Xenium are the only way for kids and their
parents to walk through the neighborhood or connect to other trails. Elimination of the shoulder
and the increased speed would eliminate our walking access to and from the area.
I would ask that you please revisit the proposal and amend the following:
-First and foremost, reduce the speed limit from 40 mph to 30 mph and keep
Xenium a two lane rather than four lane road.
-Second, at a minimum leave the stop sign in at 34th avenue but preferably install
another stop sign at either 37th, 35th or 32nd avenue. There are numerous streets in
Minneapolis that have stop signs every block in order to slow down "cut through" traffic.
-Give the completion of the paths along Xenium priority over other paths that are to
be completed under the referendum.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. We would be more than happy to discuss this further
with any city planning officials.
Since ly,
DaO'IN4n
e,ynn and Haley Talen
13300 35th Ave. N.
Plymouth, MN 55441
(612) 557-5775
December 11, 1995
Joy Tierney, Mayor
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN. 55447
Dear Ms. Tierney,
I am writing this letter to be heard. I am a new homeowner in the City of Plymouth
and a former apartment dweller in the City of Plymouth. I love the Parkers Lake
location in which I reside. However, I am disgruntled with the run around I have
received by the builder of my home and various city employees of Plymouth.
I will start with the builder that is The Rottlund Company Inc., I do not believe they
are a quality builder, they build affordable homes but, the workmanship is very poor. l
have lived in my home since April 28, 1995 and cannot say I have been happy one day.
I have had repeated contact with the company regarding the workmanship, some issues
have been resolved others not. I am disappointed to see they again are building at the
Old Rockford Road and Highway 55 location.
I would hope that the city inspectors do a better job in inspecting these units than they
have with mine. When I moved in there was no electricity wired in the living area of
my home and no outside running water, how did this pass final inspection?
Also, the furnace room in my home was not taped, I called the fire department, one
individual I spoke with claimed it was not code another said it didn't have to be taped.
Who do I believe?
Lastly, The Rottlund Company had not removed the lock box from my door many
months after move in and they were entering the premises of my home without my
consent. I contacted the Plymouth police department on this issue the officer I spoke
with said this is a fine line but they would have the right to enter, not necessarily
without my consent. I have since taken the lock box off and had my locks changed.
I am also not happy with the outrageous property tax increase for 1996.
You are welcome to see my home at anytime to see the poor workmanship in the
construction of my home. Obviously this is in hopes the City of Plymouth enforces
stricter guidelines to a builder so other homeowners do not have to endure the amount
of frustration and irritation I have experienced.
Thank You,
Sue Olson
Susan' E. Olson
2230 Ranchview--L'4,
Plymouth, MN SS447'
-b
CITY OF
PUMOUTR
December 13, 1995
Susan Olson
2230 Ranchview Lane N. #94
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Ms. Olson,
Thank you for your letter to Mayor Tierney expressing your concerns over building
inspections in your home. Mayor Tierney has asked Community Development Director
Anne Hurlburt to respond to your concerns. You can expect a response from them by
December 27.
Thanks again for your thoughtful letter. Please give me a call on 509-5052 if you have
not received a response by December 27.
Sincerely,
V4"o�-
Kathy Lueckert
Assistant City Manager
cc: Anne Hurlburt, Community Development Director
C/R. file (95-56)
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CITIZEN REQUEST TRACKING
..;:.::..:.
div.:
iet'erred U EEE::: <::»?i
.....:::...::..
::.�y•:.................::.::.::.:.:.::.:.........::::.....::::::....:.
iY%; ' 3f' 1E C ">+*E < ::;;: i %i'%? r•i : ' i i? '?;'::iiia::iii:'>: ::;:.:
:.... .......... .....
.. ................ .. . .......... ...............................
<.::.:.: i ::::::::: ;::::::;::;::;::;::;::;:;::;::;::;::;;::;::;::;::;::;;;:
<i:;> i :i• Sub ect.... . :::::.:::::::::::::..........
::::::..:.::::.::::.:...:.
I ... .....................
yY�� yyyy
IJa [ RtC'CeEp l :: natet�#'erred
_.
>Date»>
36
Blank
Patrick McDonald
Amberwoods Park
9/6/95
9/6/95
9/20/95
9/14/95
37
Hurlburt
Daryl Tesch
South Shore Drive Trailer Park
9/6/95
9/6/95
9/20/95
9/20/95
38
Moore
Ellen Feuling
Drainage Problems on Weston La.
8/23/95
8/24/95
9/1/95
9/27/95
39
Blank
Joseph Michaels
Open Space parcel east of Zachary La.
9/20/95
9/20/95
10/5/95
9/21/95
40
Blank
Vincent J. Bonacci
Concerns about soccer Referee
9/21/95
9/22/95
10/5/95
10/3/95
41
Blank
Cathy Newsom
Concerns about soccer Referee
9/19/95
9/26/95
10/10/95
10/3/95
42
Hurlburt
David G. Roston
"No Parking" Signs in Trenton Ponds
9/26/95
9/29/95
10/13/95
10/20/95
43
Gerdes
George W. Sheets
Parking Ticket at Rockford Road Plaza
10/3/95
10/4/95
10/18/95
10/5/95
44
Moore
Althea Blommel
French Drain on 44th Avenue N.
10/23/95
10/24/95
11/7/95
11/16/95
45
Moore
Greg Engel
Speeding traffic at Peony Lane & 19th
10/30/95
10/31/95
11/13/95
11/16/95
46
Gerdes
Leo Benz
Traffic Citation
11/3/95
11/3/95
11/17/95
11/13/95
47
Hurlburt
Carl Robinson
Development Concerns at N.W. Blvd. &
37th
11/3/95
11/3/95
11/17/95
11/8/95
48
Gerdes
Marsha Upson
Crime Problems in Sunny Acres
11/6/95
11/8/95
11/22/95
11/16/95
49
Hurlburt
George Wilson
Plymouth Towne Square concerns
11/13/95
11/14/95
11/28/95
11/29/95
50
Moore
David Talen
Xenium Lane traffic concerns
11/20/95
11/28/95
12/12/95
12/12/95
51
Moore
D.W. McMoore
Street assessments & private streets
11/29/95
11/30/95
12/13/95
12/1/95
52
Hahn
John Miller
property tax increases
11/29/95
11/30/95
12/13/95
12/11/9
53
Hahn
Jerry Chmielewski
property tax increases
12/1/95
12/1/95
12/14/95
12/9/95
53-B
Moore
Jerry Chmielewski
Driveway Repairs
12/1/95
12/1/95
12/14/95
54
Lueckert
Mark & Susan Leventhal
Junk Mail
11/15/95
11/15/95
11/29/95
11/17/95
55
Blank
Mark Youngblood
Trail Development
12/11/95
12/11/95
12/26/95
56
Hurlburt
ISusan Olson
I Building Inspection Concerns
12/13/95 1
12/13/95
12/27/95
95REQ.XLS Page 2
P OPHAM HAIK
SCHNOBRICH & KAUFMAN, LTD.
INCLUDING THE LAW PRACTICE OF
MASON, FENWICK IN LAWRENCE, ESTABLISHED 1861
U.S. OFFICES:
DENVER, COLORADO SUITE 3300
TEL 303-893-1200 222 SOUTH NINTH STREET
MIAMI, FLORIDA MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA 55402-3336
TEL 305-530-0050 TEL 612-333-4800 • FAx 612-334-8888
WASHINGTON, D.C. �.v.
TEL 202-824.8000
BRUCE D. MALKERSON, ESQ.
DIRECT DIAL (612) 334-2695
v
December 7, 1995
AFFILIATIONS
BEIJING, CHINA
TEL 01 1861-5135261
LEIPZIG, GERMANY
TEL 01 149-341-4918429
STUTTGART, GERMANY
TEL 01 149-71 1.22363
Ms. Anne Hur 9 VIA TELECOPIER & U.S. MAIL
Director of Community Development
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
Re: Downtown Plymouth - Property Owners Group
Dear Anne:
Thank you for having met with me, Jim Guddal, John and Jack Day and Rod
Morrissette on November 29, 1995 at City Hall to review the status of the various drafts of
the Concept Plan and Design Guidelines, the proposed Downtown Concept Land Use Plan
related thereto, and zoning information related thereto.
It is my understanding that notice has been promulgated that on December 13, 1995
the Planning Commission will commence the public hearings relating to the adoption of the
proposed amendment to the City's existing Comprehensive Plan relating to Downtown
Plymouth. As to that proposed amendment, I understand that you have drafted a one page
amendment that you just sent to me and that and the Concept Plan and Design Guidelines as
outlined in the draft by the consultant dated November 20, 1995 will be the subject of the
discussion of the Planning Commission on December 13, 1995. I understand further from
you that you hope that the language to be adopted at some point by the City will be general
in nature enough so that possible rezonings thereafter would not necessitate a future
amendment of the Comprehensive Plan.
015/22102919 12n195
Ms. Anne Hurlburt
December 7, 1995
Page 2
During our meeting, I and the representatives from the Downtown Plymouth property
group discussed with you generally some of the concerns that they have had with the
procedure to date and most importantly the fact that it is difficult for us individually or as a
group to present many opinions on the proposed Concept Plan and Design Guidelines dated
November 20, 1995 and the actual amendment to the Comprehensive Plan since there is no
draft of the proposed zoning ordinance to implement same available for review. As you
know, the draft plan is understandably general in nature in enough areas to allow flexibility
for the City in the future but also such a draft plan does not give the owners an understanding
as to what the zoning restrictions might be for their specific properties as to permitted and
conditional uses and as to performance standards. We ask that the City's Planning
Commission therefore of course proceed with opening the public hearing on December 13 and
taking of any testimony that anyone wished to present (since the notices had already been
sent out) but that the Planning Commission then continue the public hearing for at least 30
days so that during that 30 day time period we would be able to review a draft of the
proposed zoning ordinance for the Downtown area which you thought would be available for
review in draft form during that 30 day time period.
We feel very strongly that in order to maximize the success of any plan that there is a
need for the City staff, Planning Commission and Council and the property owners to
understand some of the potential details of the implementing ordinance in order to understand
fully what impact the Comprehensive Plan amendment may have.
In other amendments to comprehensive plans in the past in many cities, this has not
been an issue since the zoning code provisions are generally known at the time when a
comprehensive plan may be amended from say industrial to business or industrial to
residential. That is not the case in this proposed Comprehensive Plan amendment. While I
realize that you cannot make a final decision on this matter, after our lengthy meeting you did
indicate that you could see why we would like to have the continuance and that you would
recommend such continuance.
Therefore my clients will not be in a position to present their opinions in detail (and
perhaps not at all) at the meeting of December 13 because to do so now would be a waste of
the Planning Commission's time and the City staff's time because so many of their comments
would have to be predicated on various different assumptions as to what the implementing
zoning might be.
By subsequent voice mail message to you I have indicated that I have had an
additional meeting with the steering group of the Downtown property owners and they
confirmed that they would like to have the hearing continued for 30 days as was noted above.
015/22102919 12n/95
I- 5a
Ms. Anne Hurlburt
December 7, 1995
Page 3
Thank you very much for your willingness to meet with us on November 29 and for
your explanation of the process to date and discussion of possible alternative directions as to
the planning process in the future for this area.
I would appreciate your including a copy of this letter in the packet to the Planning
Commission.
cc: Downtown Property Owners
Dwight Johnson, City Manager
015/22102919 12n/95
V
Very truly yours,
II I �� (' /
Bruce D. Malkerson
December 11, 1995
Dave Crain
13200 38th Av. N
Plymouth, MN 55442
Mayor Joy Tierney
City of Plymouths ` `
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Mayor iemey,/J J
One of the tasks you and the Plymouth City Council will face in January will be to fill vacancies on
the advisory commissions. My term on the Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority is one
of those expiring. In fact this is my second term.
As you consider the appointments to be made, I want you to know that I would like to be re-
appointed. I also want you to know that if you and the Council decide to select someone else for that
position, I will completely understand and bear no hard feelings. I know, and have always
appreciated, the wealth of talent available to the city to fill positions on the various commissions. I
also appreciate the value added by the infusion of new perspectives and talents.
At the same time I believe I have a great deal to offer the City through the breadth and depth of my
experience. Certainly you are aware of the accomplishments of the HRA over the 10 years I've
served. Working with the City Council we have become a CDBG Entitlement City with all the added
resources, opportunities and responsibilities that has entailed. We also did what few if any other,
cities in the country have done in creating Plymouth Towne Square for our low income senior
citizens.
In addition, I offer my one year experience as a Loaned Executive at the Metropolitan Council
working on affordable housing issues. In today's environment of the Liveable Communities Act and
the Elm Creek Cluster Agreement, I believe my knowledge of the people, programs and developers
can significantly add to the City's effectiveness in dealing with the complex issues of lifecycle and
affordable housing.
There is one additional issue you and the Council may want to consider in regard to the position I
currently hold. From its inception, the HRA has always had at least one current Councilmember as a
Commissioner. Though not required by statute, this practice has been followed in Plymouth because
the HRA has somewhat more independence than do the other advisory commissions. With John
Edson completing his term on the Council, if I am re -appointed there would be two former but no
current Councilmembers on the HRA.. Perhaps this could be resolved by the appointment of a CCR
to the HRA. Or, if a current Councilmember would like to serve on the HRA, I would be very
comfortable with that decision.
Again, I would be delighted to serve another term on the HRA. 1 am very excited about the
membership of the Board and its opportunity to continue contributing to Plymouth. I appreciate your
consideration. If you have any questions, please call me at 559-1642.
Y9ars truly
i t
Dave Crain
cc Laurie Ahrens
Kevin Christian
9910 South Shore Drive
Plymouth, AIN 55441
Letter to the Editor:
I would. like to express my opposition to theesed toll roads in my state.
It would be my preference to have taxation cover the cost and maintenance of
roads. It. is my feeling that there is better accountability for the costs to the
consumer through taxation. We get to vote for our representatives. We will
not get to vote for the owners of a private company operating these toll roads.
Some features of the proposal that. I question or do not: support are:
•
Hug Aircraft «ill make a profit. from the transponder. It would make
more sense to tax each car an additional $40 and then spend itdirectly on
building or maintaining the road.
•Another added cost. I can see is that of billing and personnel to monitor
the operation. These dollars also could go directly- to funding the road
i tself.
• The possibility of black market transponders that could result in theft of
fiends from 1AIinnesota residents. We are seeing politicians being found
guilty of theft regularly in t;he news. Examples are phone -gate, and theft:
of casino proceeds from the native anierican people. In the majority of
cases we see no remorse or acceptance of responsibility on the part, of the
thieves. How is the individual going to have a record of passes through
the toll road? When we use a credit card we have a piece of paper with
our signature that shows we have initiated the charge against our own
account. Hogs- can the user be sure the system is accurate?
• The fact that. Hubs aircraft is a player in building the road and
providing the accounting teclinolog.y raises the question for me of a
conflict, of interest.
• The companies building and maintaining the roads being located outside
the state of Minnesota. I feel the jobs and profits should remain inside
the state to benefit residents of Minnesota.
• An open ended cost structure that -,vi.11 allow future politicians to decide
whether to continue chargiig users of the road a toll after the cost-, of
building the road is paid. This is like taking out a mortgage where
payment could go on forever after all costs and loan amounts have been
paid. I can imagine no fiscally responsible person agreeing to these sorts
of terms in their personal finances and I would not, support the state to
enter into this sort: of arrangement.
• It also seems to me as though it is time to examine state laws that permit
only the citizens of the cities that the toll roads would be built in to
express support or opposition to such a project We are a whole
community in the metro area, and all of us will be affected by the
decision. We therefore should all have representation in the decision
making process, such as a public vote on the issues.
• It is difficult to understand �vhy politicians would recommend such a
plan. They state the reason is a lack of money to build our own roads in
the same year that we have a stirplus of tax dollars. It is also difficult to
understand why we would choose to spend money with a for profit,
private business to build our roads if a lack of fiends is the reason. It
would seem that this would only cost us more over time and be an
ultimate loss to the residents of Minnesota. This method of spending our
dollars rings of taxation without representation.
In closing, it. is my opinion that. toll roads `would affect every citizen in the
state of Minnesota. A similar arrangement happened in the past where an
experimental sales tax of a small amount put in place in the 60's has grown
and is still Nvith us in the JO's.. I hope that readers of this letter will contact
their state and local representatives expressing opposition to toll roads In
Minnesota. This letter is also being sent to my state and local political
representatives.
Sincerely,
Bevin Christian
cc Peggy Leppick
Martha Robertson
City of Plymouth nlayor and City Council
December 13, 1995
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth blvd
Plymouth, MN 55447
Attn: City Council and Mayor ,
I would like to take this opportunity to 1&0oul w that we are opposed to the proposed trail
extensions West on Dunkirk lane, south of highway 55.
I have already spoken with neighbors and attended the meeting on December 12 at City Hall to
voice our concerns.
I believe that there is not a Arin/win situation for the proposed trail. If the trail is put on the west
side, there are concerns of pedestrian safety, cost to the city, and lowered house value, especially
for those houses facing Dunkirk lane that would have 18 feet of their front yards taken over by
8ft of black tar.
I live on the corner of Medina and Dunkirk, where myself and neighbor are already facing the
dangers of the obstructed view of traffic entering Dunkirk around the curve from Medina. I can't
imagine doubling the danger by adding pedestrians and baby carriages.
After talking with neighbors on both sides of Dunkirk the collective opinion was to have the trail
on the East side along the front of the fire station, field, church, past houses with existing
privacy fences and then cross to the west side to miss the 6 houses with treed back yards. We
are aware that the city is opposed to a cross walk area at this time, however, that is the answer
that makes most sense at this time, if the trail needs to be put in at all..
The existing trail has crossed Dunkirk for years and it isn't even posted well. A well signed and
posted cross walk would be the only win-win situation for the Plymouth taxpayers/voters who
reside on Dunkirk lane and who would get most use of the trail.
Residents on both sides of Dunkirk lane have legitimate issues for wanting the trail on the
opposing side. This cross walk proposal is a justified compromise for all concerned.
Residents on the West side of Dunkirk will have a trail that extends 18 feet in their front yard.
With concerns of crossing driveways, utility poles, fire hydrants, removal of trees and
landscaping, loss of privacy, littering concerns and depreciated value of their homes, Not to
mention that most of the existing trail is already on the East side of Dunkirk.
Residents on the East side, have concerns with the removal of trees from their back yard.
If the trail has to be put in at all:
We would hope that the City of Plymouth would be receptive to our concerns and ideas for
improvement to the proposed trail system. It would be a shame to draw a line down the middle
of the road and separate a neighborhood trying to pull together to devise a plan that makes the
most sense.
If you have any questions or comments please contact me directly at: 449-0373
Sincerely,
r
" tkljllll�
Tiffane' Ferrer and West Side Residents of Dunkirk Lane
cc: Eric Blank