HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 09-09-2005CITY OF PLYMC Dummy
COUNCIL INFOrib n►._.....
September 9, 2005
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS
Youth Advisory Council September 12 meeting agenda ...................................................... Page 3
September, October, and November Official City Meeting Calendars ................................. Page 5
Tentative list of agenda items for future City Council meetings ........................................ Page 11
FOR INFORMATION ...
News Articles, Releases, Publications, etc.
Notice to Environmental Quality Committee (EQC) members of the cancellation
ofthe September 14 meeting.............................................................................................. Page 12
Notice of a remembrance ceremony on September 11 at Fire Station III ........................... Page 13
Notice of a legislative community forum on health care issues ......................................... Page 14
Star Tribune "West" Edition news story on the Comprehensive Plan update
meetings.............................................................................................................................. Page 15
State Fair Poll Results:
Senatepoll findings................................................................................................. Page 18
Housepoll findings................................................................................................. Page 22
Bench & Bar article on the Supreme Court ruling that permits Cities to take
privateland.......................................................................................................................... Page 24
Notice and registration information for the Metropolitan Council Regional
Policy Initiative conference................................................................................................ Page 29
Elm Creek Watershed Management Commission notice and agenda for the
September 14 meeting (note incorrect date on agenda) ...................................................... Page 33
City news Releases:
City emergency preparedness plans to assist Gulf State residents if
called upon by the Federal Government.............................................................. Page 36
Groundbreaking event for senior housing project at Vicksburg Crossing .............. Page 38
Water main flushing schedule................................................................................. Page 39
City cooperative program to promote literacy........................................................ Page 40
Plymouth Police Department Crime Prevention Newsletter ............................................... Page 41
Staff Reports
Camelot Lake Park pedestrian crossing.............................................................................. Page 43
Landscaping for Water Quality Grant Program.................................................................. Page 48
Lawndale Lane extension/connection in Maple Grove ...................................................... Page 58
Response to City—owned park acreage inquiry................................................................... Page 61
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO
September 9, 2005
Page 2
Hennepin County Adult Correctional Facility Population Report ...................................... Page 66
Correspondence
Letter to residents regarding a request for site plan amendment, conditional
use permit, and variance for Westwood Engineering (2005070) ........................................ Page 67
Letter to residents regarding a request for conditional use permit for Ascension
Evangelical Lutheran Church (2005098)............................................................................ Page 68
Letter to residents regarding a request for conditional use permit amendment and
interim use permit for Carlson's Piano World (2005 101 .................................................... Page 69
Letter to residents regarding a request for conditional use permit for WCL
Associates, Inc. (200102).................................................................................................... Page 70
Correspondence between City Manager Laurie Ahrens and Xcel Community
Relations Manager Darrin Lahr regarding Xcel's franchise obligations in the
community.......................................................................................................................... Page 71
YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 12, 2005
7:00 PM
PLYMOUTH CREEK CENTER CONFERENCE ROOM 2
1. Call to Order
2. Presentations:
a)
3. Approvals:
a) Agenda
b) July 11 meeting minutes; August 22 retreat notes
4. City Council Update
5. Special Items:
a) Plymouth on Parade participation
b) Volunteer Opportunity: Holiday Bell—Ringing
c) Goals and Objectives; 2005-2006 Work Plan
6. Adjournment
Time Allotment
7:00 PM
7. Additional Materials:
a) September, October and November 2005 Official City Meeting Calendars
b)
Next Meeting: September 26, 7:00 PM
OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS
September 2005
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Oct 2005
S M T W T F S
1
7:00 PM HUMAN
RIGHTS COMMISSION,
2
3
Aug 2005
S M T W T F S
1
Plymouth Creek Center
Conference Room 2
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
28 29 30 31
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
LABOR DAY - City
Offices Closed
7:00 PM SPECIAL
COUNCIL MEETING:
BUDGETSTUDY
SESSION; Conf. Rm. 2,
Plymouth Creek Center
lower level
7:00 PM
PLANNING
COMMISSION,
Black Box Theater,
Plymouth Creek
11:30 AM TRANSIT
STATION 73
CEREMONY Soultthe st
Comer of Highway 55
and County Road 73
7:00 PM PARK &
RECREATION
ADVISORY
COMMISSION
(PRAC)
Center
Classroom,
Plymouth Creek
Center (this
meeting only)
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
7:00 PM YOUTH
ADVISORY COUNCIL,
Plymouth Creek Center,
lower level Conference
Room2
6:30 PM -8:30 PM
COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN OPEN HOUSE,
Plymouth Creek Center,
Plymouth Room
8:00 PM REGULAR
COUNCIL MEETING
(SPECIAL START
TIME THIS
MEETING ONLY),
Black Box Theater,
Plymouth Creek
Center
7:00 PM HOUSING &
REDEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY (HRA),
Plymouth Town Square
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
4:30 PM VICKSBURG
CROSSING
GROUNDBREAKING,
Hwy. 55 & Vicksburg
Lane
6:30 PM -8:30 PM
COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN OPEN HOUSE,
Plymouth creek Center,
Plymouth Room
7:00 PM
PLANNING
COMMISSION,
Black Box Theater,
9:00 AM -3:30 PM
PLYMOUTH
CLEAN-UP DAY,
Public Works
Maintenance Facility
Plymouth Creek
Center
Autumn Art Fair
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
and Plymouth on
Parade 1:00 PM
25
26
27
28
29
30
7:00 PM YOUTH
ADVISORY COUNCIL,
Plymouth Creek Center,
lower level Conference
Room 2
11:45 AM PLYMOUTH
BUSINESS COUNCIL,
Sheraton Minneapolis
West 12201 Ridgedale
Drive, Minnetonka
7:00 PM PLYMOUTH
ADVISORY
COMMITTEE ON
TRANSIT (PACT),
Plymouth Creek Center
7:00 PM REGULAR
CITY COUNCIL
MEETING, Black Box
Theater, Plymouth
Creek Center
modified on 9/8/2005
OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS
October 2005
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Saturday
Nov 2005
1
Sep 2005
S M T W T F S
S M T W T F S
1 2 3
1 2 3 4 5
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
25 26 27 28 29 30
27 28 29 30
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
ROSH
HASHANAH
BEGINS AT
SUNSET
7:00 PM
PLANNING
COMMISSION,
Black Box Theater,
Plymouth Creek
7:00 PM HUMAN
RIGHTS COMMISSION,
Plymouth Creek Center
Conference Room 2
Center
9
10
11
12
13
14
I5
PW PM ENVIRONMENTAL7:00
OUALITY COMMITTEE IEOC),
Plymo°IM1 Crwk Center
CNwreom A
7:00PM YOUTH ADVISORY
COUNCIL, Ply—Wh Crwk
7:00 PM
REGULAR CITY
COUNCIL
MEETING, Black
Box Theater,
YOM KIPPUR
BEGINS AT
SUNSET
PM PARK &
RECREATION
ADVISORY
COMMISSION(PRAC),
Plymouth Creek Center
Classroom A
C..."bwr level Cenrermce
Roam]
Plymouth Creek
Center
COLUMBUS DAY
(OBSERVED), PUN. Warke
O'rMilan dosM
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
7:00 PM
PLANNING
COMMISSION,
7:00 PM HOUSING &
REDEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY (HRA),
Plymouth Town Square
Black Box Theater,
Plymouth Creek
Center
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
7:00 PM -9:00 PM
7:00 PM
7:0U PM-9:OOPM
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
OPEN HOUSE, Plymouth
Creek Cenbr, Plymouth
REGULAR CITY
COUNCIL
COMPREHENSME PLAN
OPEN HOUSE, Plymouth
Creek Cenbr, Ply—um
MEETING, Black
R°am
7:00 PM YOUTH
ADVISORY COUNCIL,
Plymouth Creak Cenbr,
buret level Conlererice
Room 2
Box Theater,
Plymouth Creek
(Venter
7:00 PM PLYMOUTH
ADVISORYCOMMITTEE
ON TRANSIT (PACT),
Plymouel Creek Centel
30
31
DAYLIGHT
SAVINGS ENDS -
set clocks back 1
hour
modified on 9/8/2005
-""" t
OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS
November 2005
Sunday Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
7:00 PM
PLANNING
COMMISSION,
Black Box Theater,
7:00 PM HUMAN
RGHTS COMMISSION,
PIymouth Creek Center
Conference Room 2
Plymouth Creek
Center
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
7:00 PM YOUTH
ADVISORY COUNCIL,
Plymouth Creek Center,
lower level Conference
Room 2
7:00 PM
ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY COMMITTEE
(EQC), Plymouth Creek
Center Classroom A
7:00 PM PARK&
RECREATION
ADVISORY
COMMISSION (PRAC),
Plymouth Classroom Center
VETERANS
DAY
(OBSERVED),
City Offices
Closed
8:00 PM REGULAR
COUNCIL MEETING
(SPECIAL START
TIME THIS
MEETING ONLY),
Box Theater,
Plymouth Creek
Center
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
7:00 PM
PLANNING
COMMISSION,
Black Box Theater,
7:00 PM HOUSING &
REDEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY (HRA),
Plymouth Town Square
Plymouth Creek
Center
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
7:00 PM YOUTH
ADVISORY COUNCIL,
Plymouth Creek Center,
lower level Conference
Room
11:45 AM PLYMOUTH
BUSINESS COUNCIL,
Sheraton Minneapolis
West 12201 Ridgedale
Drioe,Minnetonka
7:00 PM PLYMOUTH
ADVISORY
COMMITTEE ON
TRANSIT (PACT),
Plymouth creek center
City Offices
closed
THANKSGIVING
THANKSGIVING
HOLIDAY
HOLIDAY
7:00 PM REGULAR
CITY COUNCIL
MEETING, Black Box
Theater, Plymouth
Creek Center
27
28
29
30
Oct 2005
Dec 2005
S M T W T F S
S M T W T F S
1
1 2 3
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
30 31
modified on 9/8/2005
.f/
I
t
Tentative Schedule for
City Council Agenda Items
September 27, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Black Box Theater, Plymouth Creek Center lower level
• Presentation of Minnesota Recreation and Parks Association Award of Excellence for
Sponsorships and Partnerships
• Approve variance for signage for CVS Pharmacy located at 4140 County Road 101. ICON
Identity Solutions. (2005060)
• Consider preliminary plat for four single—family lots for property located at 1010 Harbor
Lane North. Calhoun Development. (2005078)
• Approve rezoning from FRD (Future Restricted Development) to B -C (Business Campus)
preliminary plat, site plan, and variances for construction of a town office condominium
building at 18240 State Highway 55. Mohagen/Hansen Architectural Group. (2005086)
• Approve variances to the front and rear setbacks for a six -unit townhome structure on
property located at 5106-5128 Yuma Lane North. Ryland Homes. (2005090)
• Consider rezoning from RSF-1 (Single Family 1) to RMF -2 (Mulitple Family 2),
preliminary plat and site plan for 28 townhouse dwellings to be called "Bassett Creek
Crossing" and one existing single-family dwelling on property located at 10 Zachary Lane.
Charles Cudd Company. (2005093)
• Approve variance for impervious surface coverage for property located at 1824 East
Medicine Lake Boulevard. Tom Conn. (2005106)
• Consider revised special assessment policy
October 11, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Black Box Theater, Plymouth Creek Center lower level
• Receive third quarter Financial Report
October 25, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Black Box Theater, Plymouth Creek Center lower level
November 8, Regular, 8: 00 p.m., Black Box Theater, Plymouth Creek Center lower level
November 22, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Black Box Theater, Plymouth Creek Center lower level
Note: Special Meeting topics have been set by Council; all other topics are tentative.
r
CITY Or
PUMOUT4
September 7, 2005
SUBJECT: CANCELLATION NOTICE FOR EQC MEETING OF SEPT. 14, 2005
Dear EQC Members:
Due to lack of sufficient agenda items, we are canceling the September 14, 2005, EQC
meeting. Our next scheduled meeting will be on Monday, October 10, 2005. The
following are tentative agendas for the up -coming EQC meetings:
October 10, 2005:
o Review of the Greenhouse Gas Project
0 2005 Plymouth Goose Management Report
November 9, 2005:
o Water Resources Report on Erosion Control, Drainage and Flood Projects
o Storm Water Utility Incentive Programs
o Recycling Study Report
Regular EQC meeting packets will be sent to all members prior to the October meeting.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
�r N
Shane Missaghi
Water Resources Engineer
cc: Councilmember Ginny Black
Doran Cote, Director of Public Works
Ronald S. Quanbeck, P.E. City Engineer
® PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER
1 '.
O:\Engineering\ W TRQLTY\Agendes\2005\EQC_MtgCancellation_9_ 14_05.doc
PLYMOUTH Adding Quality to Life
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (763) 509-5000
www.d.plymouth.w.us
�3
Aon I.
R�981
iuq senator
WON
Stns Representative
Please join us for a discussion
on health care issues at a
Sandra
Fete,
- i92
State Representative
"""" �'y
Healthcare issues of families
0 mm0811V
rm
with special needs children
Bring your concerns and ideas
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
at the Rockford Road Community Library
6401 42nd Avenue North in Crystal
3
NAIMI (National Alliance
for the"'Mentally 111)
Teen mental health issues
Minnesota Senior
Federation
The new Medicare
prescription drug benefit
startribune.com Close window
Last update: September 6, 2005 at 12:28 PM
A developing story
Ben Steverman
Star Tribune
Published September 7, 2005
The residents of northwest Plymouth know that suburban -style development is coming to gobble up
their soybean fields, horse farms and wooded estates.
Some want development to come quickly so they can sell their land for a profit and get out of the way
of traffic and high property taxes. Others wish developers would stay away as long as possible.
About 3.7 square miles of rolling countryside in Plymouth -- more than a tenth of the city -- currently
remains off limits to development and cut off from sewer and water service. The city planned it that
way, but with much of the rest of Plymouth quickly filling up with new subdivisions, the city seems
likely to let development move into the area soon.
Meetings starting next week will let residents weigh in on what development should look like and
how quickly it should come.
Many, like Mary Jo Lush and her family, bought land as an investment, knowing development was
coming.
"It wasn't going to be something we were going to hang onto forever," said Lush, who bought the
home on 10 acres with her husband three years ago.
On the other hand, she would like to stay until her youngest children graduate from high school so
they have the chance to grow up in such a beautiful spot.
Brady O'Brien, who lives farther east, is eager to sell. His "little hobby farm," where he has lived for
18 years, is still off limits to development, but just down Vicksburg Lane from him, a developer was
allowed to build a large residential development.
"I have to listen to bulldozers all day long," O'Brien said. "It's awful. You don't know how quiet it
used to be here."
He won't sell his land until it's rezoned, because he said he doesn't want to miss out on the full value
of the property
Planning for change
It could be 2008 before property like O'Brien's is officially open for development. It will take
Plymouth that long to go through the complicated process of updating its comprehensive plan, a
document that will guide development for the next 10 years.
Every other west suburban city will soon be in the same position as Plymouth. The Metropolitan
Council requires all metro -area cities to update their comprehensive plans by 2008. The plans not only
lay out how land will be developed, but also how each city will provide utilities, transportation and
parks to its residents.
Plymouth has started early to get lots of public input, especially on the future of its northwest area.
Right now, the plan for the northwest area is an "open book," community development director Anne
Hurlburt said.
Though full-fledged development may be years away, residents already complain that suburbia is
encroaching on their quiet corner of Plymouth.
They report increased traffic on the area's few roads. Development to the north in Maple Grove may
be to blame; another factor might be commuters who use local roads rather than interstate highways.
Suzanne Rooney stopped boarding horses at her property on County Road 47 because it was no longer
safe to ride them along the road, she said. "It's not the peaceful place it used to be," she said.
Property taxes are another concern. As developers have bought up tracts of land, property values, thus
property taxes, have gone up.
The Silver Buckle Saddle Club on County Road 47 is a nonprofit operation that uses horse shows
throughout the summer to pay its bills. The club's property taxes have tripled in the last few years and
the club, one of the last of its kind in the metro area, had to come up with offbeat solutions like
corporate sponsorships,to make ends meet, according to its vice president, Jim Kukral.
"We're getting squeezed," he said, but the club will fight to hold on to its land. "We're not going to go
away easily," he said.
The pressure to develop is not all bad, said Vern Dotseth, who has lived on Vicksburg Lane since
1963. Development in the rest of Plymouth makes life more convenient, especially for getting gas,
groceries and other necessities.
It's inevitable
He's philosophical about development: "It's bound to come eventually," he said. "You're not going to
stop it, so you have to live with it."
The open houses Sept. 15 and Sept. 20, followed by more formal meetings later this fall, are designed
to make "living with it" as pleasant as possible. Mayor Judy Johnson said she'll be listening closely to
what residents want.
Lush, for one, would like to make sure developers keep some of the area's natural beauty. "You'd hate
to see it all plowed down and leveled and put into townhouses," she said.
At least some land will be set aside for parks and open space, and regulations require that developers
protect the many wetlands that dot the area.
Rooney said she wishes the city would "think outside the box." No more subdivisions of "big
McMansions," she said. She would like some high-density development within walking distance of
stores, she said -- "someplace that is ecological to live and you don't necessarily need cars."
But then there are residents like O'Brien, who said he doesn't care what sort of development comes,
because he and his seven horses won't be sticking around.
V.
"It's not what I moved here for," O'Brien said.
- TO HAVE YOUR SAY
WHAT: Meetings to discuss the future of Plymouth's northwest area
WHEN: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 15 and 20
WHERE: Plymouth Creek Center, 14800 34th Av. N.
FOR MORE: Call 763-509-5000 or go to www.ci.plymouth.mn.us.
Contact the writer at 612-673-7168
or bsteverman(a(i�startribune.com.
17
Minnesota State Senate
2005 State Fair PoH
Respondents should be of voting age.
Please mark one answer per question.
4820 Total Respondents
Demographics
Male
50%
(2413)
Female
48.5%
(2340)
No answer
1.5%
(67)
Minneapolis/St. Paul
34.3%
(1654)
Rural
15.7%
(755)
Suburban
43.8%
(2113)
Regional hub (Rochester, Duluth, etc.)
4.3%
(208)
Another state
.4%
(19)
No answer
1.5%
(71)
Age:
18-35
19.5%
(939)
36-54
38.7%
(1865)
55-64
24.2%
(1168)
65 and older
15.2%
(734)
No answer
2.4%
(114)
Party Affiliation:
DFL Party
41.6%
(2008)
Republican Party
19.5%
(938)
Independence Party
2.3%
(110)
Green Party
1.4%
(66)
Independent or other
17.8%
(858)
No comment
17.4%
(840)
In an attempt to solve the budget impasse, two proposals to raise revenue were
seriously considered. These were a state run casino at Canterbury Park, and a tax
increase on married couples having taxable incomes over $250,000 and single
taxpayers with taxable income over $166,000.
Which of the following best represents your thoughts?
I support both of these ideas. 22.2% (1068)
I only support a state run casino at Canterbury Park. 16.8%(808)
I only support raising income taxes on upper income Minnesotans. 43.9% (2116)
I don't support either. 13.9%(670)
Undecided/No opinion. 3.3% (158)
H
2. Currently, most of Minnesota's electricity is generated by burning coal and by
nuclear power. Do you support a law to require utilities to generate at least 20 percent of
their electricity by the year 2020 from renewable sources like wind power?
Yes, regardless of the cost. 46.2% (2226)
Yes, if the increased cost on my utility bill is minimal. 35.2% (1695)
No. 12.0%(579)
Undecided/No opinion. 6.6% (320)
3. Do you think the new charge on tobacco products is a fee or a tax? Do you support
the fee/tax?
I believe it is a fee and support it
13.5%(652)
I believe it is a tax and support it.
56.6%
(2730)
I believe it is a fee and do not support it.
3.2%
(156)
I believe it is a tax and do not support it.
21.9%
(1053)
Undecided/ No opinion.
4.8%
(129)
4. Would you support a constitutional amendment adopting initiative and referendum,
which allows the electorate by petition to place issues on the general election ballot?
Yes.
No.
Undecided/ No opinion.
47.0% (2266)
37.5% (1805)
15.5%(749)
5. Some legislators and interest groups have suggested that several issues that
require immediate attention (i.e. transportation needs, stadiums, hospital construction
siting, pension reform, etc.) were left unresolved this year. Do you believe the governor
should call a special session this fall to deal with these issues?
Yes.
No.
Undecided/ No opinion.
37.1% (1788)
55.6% (2679)
7.3% (353)
6. The current proposal for financing a new Minnesota Twins stadium relies on
adding .015 percent ( 3 cents on 20 dollars) to the sales tax in Hennepin County. The
amount raised by the sales tax increase would be approximately $300 million. The Twins
organization would contribute $125 million. There would be no contribution from the
state. The Hennepin County Board has requested a waiver from the requirement of a
referendum or public vote on the tax increase.
Which of the following best represents your thoughts?
I approve of the proposal with no referendum of Hennepin County voters. 23.2% (1118)
11
I approve of the proposal, but only with a referendum of Hennepin County
voters. 24.2% (1165)
I don't approve of this proposal, but support using tax dollars to finance a new Twins
stadium. 3.0% (146)
I don't approve of this proposal and do not believe tax dollars should be used to finance a
new Twins stadium. 43.0% (2068)
Undecided/No opinion. 6.7% (323)
7. Every state has a different budget process. For example, if a budget is not
passed by July 1 s` in Wisconsin, the current budget remains unchanged and funding
continues on a month -by -month basis. In Minnesota, government services shut down if a
new budget is not approved by June 30th. Should the Minnesota Legislature enact a
change in the budget process to avoid a government shutdown in the event of a budget
deadlock?
No. Continue to require budgets to be completed or risk shutdown. 31.5% (1517)
Yes. Change state law. If no budget is passed, appropriations continue month
by month in the same amounts as the previous budget, until a new agreement
is reached. 61.2% (2948)
Undecided/ No opinion. 7.4% (349)
8. The city of Minneapolis operates a system of cameras, sometimes called "photo -
cops," posted at accident-prone intersections. The cameras photograph vehicles that
enter the intersection when the traffic light is red. A traffic ticket is issued by mail to the
registered owner of the vehicle. How do you view this type of system?
Issuing any traffic tickets based on photo -cop evidence should be prohibited
by state law. 20.4% (984)
I support allowing cities statewide to use this system to fine red-light runners, but only if
the actual driver, not the vehicle owner is fined. 38.4% (1852)
I support allowing cities statewide to use this system as is. 19.2% (925)
I support the use of this system statewide, along with an expansion to include other
violations, such as speeding, equipment violations (i.e. broken taillights) and expired
license tabs. 13.7% (661)
Undecided/ No opinion.
KI;
7.4% (398)
9. Should Minnesota opt out of current testing and school accountability requirements of
the federal No Child Left Behind Act, whether or not the state loses some federal
education funds as a consequence?
Yes.
No.
Undecided/No opinion
46.6% (2246)
32.8% (1582)
20.6% (992)
10. Would you support a constitutional amendment to dedicate a portion of state sales tax
revenue for the protection and improvement of fish, wildlife, water, and cultural
resources?
Yes, for all of the purposes listed.
45.1%
(2174)
Yes, for fish, wildlife, and water resource protection and
improvement only.
14.2%
(684)
Yes, for fish and wildlife resource protection and improvement only.
2.5%
(122)
No, I would not support a constitutional amendment
dedicating revenue for any of the purposes listed.
27.7%
(1337)
Undecided/ No opinion
10.5%
(503)
11. Which of the following best reflects your opinion concerning the level of state
government services in Minnesota?
I am satisfied with the type and amount of services provided. 33.1% (1595)
I feel that state government provides more services than necessary. 24.4% (1175)
I feel government services should be increased. 30.8% (1487)
Undecided/No opinion. 11.7%(563)
12. Which of the following best reflects your opinion concerning the level of state
government regulation in Minnesota?
I am satisfied with the type and amount of state government regulation. 37.9% (1828)
I feel that there is too much state government regulation. 33.7% (1623)
I feel that there should be more government regulation. 12.1%(585)
Undecided/No opinion.
PLEASE NOTE:
16.3%(784)
If a question was left blank we categorized it as Undecided/No Opinion
or no comment.
PUBLIC INFORMATION SERVICES
175 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55155
(651) 296-2146
(800) 657-3550
Fax: (651) 297-8135
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Sept. 6, 2005
Contact: Lee Ann Schutz
(651) 296-0337
leeann.schutz @ house.mn
;u;�m
-FT}I q Minnesota
House of
Representatives
°`w?' .. • o5G Steve Sviggum, Speaker
� �8
2005 State Fair Poll Results
`No ' to special session for stadiums
Nearly 70 percent of those participating in the 2005
House of Representatives State Fair Poll do not believe
that a special session should be called this year to deal with
stadium issues for the Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Vikings
and/or the University of Minnesota.
During the 12 -day run of the Minnesota State Fair, a total
of 8,822 fairgoers took the poll conducted by the nonpartisan
House Public Information Services Office. It is an informal,
unscientific survey on a number of issues discussed in prior
legislative sessions and may again be topics of discussion.
There were four more ballots cast this year than in 2004.
Results show that 81.1 percent of polltakers believe
residents should have a say when a city or county wants to
raise its local sales tax for whatever purpose. The Hennepin
County Board has proposed paying the county's share of a
new Twins ballpark on the edge of downtown Minneapolis
through a countywide sales tax increase of 0.15 percent
without a voter referendum.
Voters also strongly support dedicated funding to clean up
polluted waters, believe that at least one-half the members
in the House and Senate should be up for election every two
1. Should the governor call a special session this year for
stadium issues?
Yes..............................................25.6%................... (2,244)
No...............................................69.3%................... (6,082)
Undecided/No Opinion .............. 5.1% ........................ (449)
2. Should a city or county be able to increase its local
sales tax for whatever purpose without voter approval?
Yes..............................................14.5%................... (1,268)
No............................................... 81.1% .................... (7,113)
Undecided/No Opinion..............4.5%........................ (392)
3. Should Minnesota dedicate up to one-half of 1 percent
in state sales taxes to cleaning up polluted waters?
Yes..............................................73.8%................... (6,466)
No...............................................16.4%................... (1,436)
Undecided/No Opinion .............. 9.8% ........................ (854)
years and most would be willing to pay a fee on electronics
purchases to fund a statewide electronics recycling
program.
Slightly more than half of voters generally support
increasing the state's gas tax to support road and bridge
funding.
When it comes to gambling, an oft -discussed budget
tool in the 2005 legislative session, 47.4 percent of voting
fairgoers oppose the so-called "racino" at Canterbury Park
and 44.8 percent support the plan. More than 62 percent of
voters oppose the idea of a state-run casino at Minneapolis -
St. Paul International Airport.
The majority of voters also believe that when no legal
directive is provided, the state should not presume that a
person wants a feeding tube inserted to sustain life; ticket
scalping should not be legalized; and capital punishment
should not be reinstated.
More than 63 percent of ballot casters believe co -
curricular school activities should remain the responsibility
of the school district, not local govermnents.
Here's a look at the questions and results.
4. In general, do you support increasing the gas tax to
fund road and bridge projects?
Yes..............................................53.6%................... (4,698)
No...............................................38.8%................... (3,397)
Undecided/No Opinion .............. 7.6% ........................ (662)
5. Should capital punishment be reinstated in Minnesota?
Yes.............................................. 36.7%....................(3,211)
No...............................................56.5%................... (4,947)
Undecided/No Opinion .............. 6.8% ........................ (595)
6. Should ticket scalping -- reselling an event admission
at more than face value -- be legalized?
Yes..............................................31.3%................... (2,745)
No...............................................57.5%................... (5,038)
Undecided/No Opinion ..............11.1 % ...................... (975)
7. Do you support a state -operated casino at Minneapolis -
St. Paul International Airport with admittance limited to
ticketed passengers at least 18 years old?
Yes..............................................31.6%................... (2,770)
No...............................................62.8%................... (5,503)
Undecided/No Opinion..............5.5%........................ (485)
8. Should lawmakers approve the so-called "racino" at
Canterbury Park if the state receives a portion of the
profits?
Yes..............................................44.8%................... (3,913)
No...............................................47.4%................... (4,143)
Undecided/No Opinion .............. 7.8% ........................ (686)
9. Should the responsibilities for the non -curricular
athletic and fine arts activities of high school students be
transferred from school districts to local governments
in order to allow school districts to focus on delivering
academic services?
Yes..............................................21.2%................... (1,851)
No...............................................63.4%................... (5,523)
Undecided/No Opinion..............15.3%................... (1,337)
10. Would you be willing to pay a fee on electronics
purchases that would be used to fund a statewide recy-
cling system for electronics components?
Yes..............................................58.9%................... (5,142)
No...............................................33.4%................... (2,915)
Undecided/No Opinion..............7.8%........................ (678)
11. When no legal directive is provided, should it be
presumed under state law that a person wants a feeding
tube inserted to sustain life?
Yes..............................................22.5%................... (1,957)
No...............................................64.5%................... (5,619)
Undecided/No Opinion..............13.0%................... (1,137)
12. Should House and Senate terms be staggered so that
at least one-half the members of each body are up for
election every two years?
Yes..............................................68.0%................... (5,926)
No...............................................16.6%................... (1,452)
Undecided/No Opinion..............15.3%................... (1,331)
13. What is your favorite state fair attraction?
Animal barns..............................12.9%...................
(1,064)
Food...........................................36.6%...................
(3,023)
Grandstand shows......................1.9%........................
(153)
Machinery Hill...........................4.2%........................
(345)
Midway......................................1.4%.........................(113)
People-watching.........................31.6%...................
(2,607)
This poll.....................................11.5%......................
(950)
-30-
Note: All percentages are rounded to the nearest one-tenth. Totals are for those that
actually voted on the question. The Minnesota Ilouse of Representatives' survey is
informal and unscientific. It is simply a measurement of the opinions expressed by
those who took the time to complete the poll while visiting our booth at the fair. Our
main purpose in conducting this opinion poll was to familiarize fairgoers with some
of the issues that have recently been discussed by the Legislature and issues that may
be debated during the 2006 legislative session.
LIMITS OF URBAN
REDEVELOPMENT?
Kelo, Walser, and Condemnation in Minnesota
The U. S. Supreme Court decision in Ke►o v. New London reaffirms the
deferential standard of review of legislative takings. Minnesota
courts nevertheless are challenged to balance the benefits of redevel.
opment with the private property rights of landowners.
y highlighting the almost unfettered
power of the government to seize a
person's property, the Supreme
Court's ruling in Kelo v. City of New
London, 125 S. Ct. 2655 (U.S. 2005)
has generated a great deal of discus-
sion. The Kelo decision, however, is
not a radical departure from precedent. Instead,
Kelo reaffirms the deferential standard of review
applied by the Court to the government's exercise
of eminent domain. Nevertheless, the bare majori-
ty the decision garnered — not to mention two
BY
JEFFREY W. POST
AND MELISSA A.
BAER
Ai tr:r icT 7 n 1
nRcr v -u & Ren
strong dissents — illustrates the inherent tension
between the public's desire for urban redevelop-
ment and an individual's fundamental right to
have, hold and enjoy property. The Minnesota
Supreme Court's evenly divided decision in Hous.
and Redev. Auth. of Richfield v. Walser Auto Sales,
Inc., 641 N.W.2d 885 (Minn. 2002), demonstrates
that same tension in Minnesota.
BACKGROUND OF KELO
By the 1990s, New London, Connecticut was suf-
fering from economic stagnation. In 1990, a state
"...Justice O'Connor noted that by leaving states with the ability to
impose stricter limitations on the government's right to take private prop-
erty by eminent domain, the majority had abdicated its responsibility."
agency designated the city a "distressed municipali-
ty."' Six years later, the federal government closed
the Undersea Warfare Center, which had employed
1,500 people in New London, whose population was
24,000. By the late 1990s, New London's unemploy-
ment rate was nearly twice the Connecticut average.
In response, state and city officials targeted New
London for economic revitalization. The New
London Development Corporation.("NLDc" ), an.eco-
nomic development corporation established by the
city, created a mixed-use development plan covering
90 acres of the Fort Trumball area divided into seven
parcels. The plan consisted of a hotel, museum, hous-
ing, restaurants, retail shops, offices, a marina, a river -
front walkway, and parking facilities. The city
expected that the redevelopment project, in connec-
tion with the construction of a new $300 million
research facility by Pfizer Inc., would rejuvenate New
London's downtown and waterfront areas and poten-
tially stimulate economic growth throughout the city.
In January 2000, the NLDC began purchasing the
land necessary for its redevelopment project, but sev-
eral owners would not sell their properties. Suzette
Kelo would not agree to sell because she hail made
significant improvements to her house and valued its
water view. Another affected owner, Wilhelmina
Derby, was bom in her house in 1918 and had lived
there her entire life. None of the homes of the own-
ers who refused to sell were blighted or otherwise in
poor condition!
Unable to purchase the homes from Ms. Kelo and
eight other owners, the NLDC commenced condem-
nation in November 2000. The trial court granted
permanent injunctive relief to two of the owners,
finding that these properties were not necessary to
the development; however, the court approved the
taking of the other properties. The Connecticut
Supreme Court reversed the injunction and allowed
all of the takings. The owners then appealed to the
United States Supreme Court under the 5th
Amendment of the United States Constitution.
THE SUPREME COURT'S DECISION
The Supreme Court's decision in Kelo has two sig-
nificant components. First, the Court held that the
Constitution does not preclude the government from
condemning nonblighted property for private eco-
nomic development. Second, the Court ruled that a
condemning authority's decision to take private
property is subject to de minimus review.
The Court's first holding revolves around the
Court's interpretation of the phrase "public use." The
Takings Clause of the 5th Amendment grants the gov-
ernment the power to take private property only if the
taking is for a public use and the government pays just
compensation.' While the Court's majority conceded
that the condemned land would not — at least in its
entirety — be used by the general public after rede-
velopment, it circumvented this pitfall by holding
that the term public use was synonymous with the
term "public purpose."' In other words, if the govem-
ment takes property to advance a legitimate public
purpose, that taking constitutes a public use of the
property. The underlying rationale for the Court's
expansive interpretation of the phrase "public use"
was that a broad construction was necessary "given
the diverse and always evolving needs of society."'
The Court held that this condemnation served a pub-
lic purpose, even though private parties would ulti-
mately own the condemned land, because the taking
advanced the economic development of a communi-
ty.' The economic development of the Fort Trumball
area, if it came to fruition, was expected to generate
higher tax revenues, create employment, and improve
the overall aesthetics of the waterfront area.
The second component of the opinion centers on
the level of review that the Court applied to the con-
demning authority's rationale for taking the proper-
ty. The Court noted that the city's decision to create
a redevelopment plan for the waterfront area is "enti-
tled to our deference." The Court further stated that
the "amount and character of land to be taken for
the project and the need for a particular tract to
complete the integrated plan rests in the discretion
of the legislature."' Although the Court did not
explicitly articulate a standard of review, the Court
cited cases that applied the rational -basis test to the
government's exercise of its condemnation powers.'
The majority asserted that its ruling was a natur-
al progression of the Court's prior eminent domain
decisions, namely Berman v. Parker, 348 U.S. 26
(1954), and Hawaii Housing Authority v. Midkiff, 467
U.S. 229 (1984). In Berman, the Supreme Court
approved the taking of private property to relieve
the "urban blight" of a Washington D.C. neighbor-
hood, even though one or more of the properties
affected by the taking were not blighted.' Deferring
to the judgment of the condemning authority, the
Court found that it is often necessary to redevelop a
community as a whole, instead of on a piecemeal
basis. The Court also relied on the Midkiff decision,
which upheld a Hawaii statute that transferred fee
title to land, upon the payment of just compensa-
tion, from owners to tenants in order to break up a
"land oligopoly."10 Rejecting the notion that this
law merely took land from one private person to
give to another for her sole benefit, the Court
focused on the state's purpose for the taking — to
diversify land ownership in Hawaii — not its imple-
mentation. To that end, the statute satisfied the
public use requirement of the 5th Amendment."
In this context, the majority found that because
New London officials had created a comprehensive,
carefully considered, redevelopment plan designed to
Ai,r ?nn 1
ra icTPNrt4 T RAR 2 �
"`Though
citizens are
safe from
the govern.
ment in
their homes,
the homes
themselves
are not."'
revitalize their economically depressed city for the
benefit of all its citizens, the taking was a valid pub-
lic use under the Constitution.
At least one of the justices in the majority felt
that the standard of review needed to be explicitly
defined. Justice Kennedy, who provided the majori-
ty's critical fifth vote, emphasized in his concurrence
that the rational -basis test applied to the NLDc's deci-
sions regarding the condemnation." Moreover,
Kennedy noted that takings that are clearly "intend-
ed to confer benefits on particular, favored private
entities" are forbidden even if the takings offer inci-
dental or pretextual public benefits. According to
Kennedy, such takings could not survive constitu-
tional scrutiny even under the rational -basis test.
DISSENTING OPINIONS
Justice O'Connor, writing for the four dissenters,
pointed out that by blurring the distinction between
public and private use the majority's decision effec-
tively erased the words "public use" from the Takings
Clause of the 5th Amendment, therefore sweeping
away the limitations the Constitution placed on the
government's taking power." Consequently, all pri-
vate property is now at risk of being taken by the
government and given to another private owner
under the guise of economic redevelopment for the
construction of a newer, bigger building or facility,
which ultimately may or may not benefit the pub-
lic." The dissenters consider economic development
takings unconstitutional for failing to be a valid pub-
lic use of the condemned property. Lastly, Justice
O'Connor noted that by leaving states with the abil-
ity to impose stricter limitations on the government's
right to take private property by eminent domain,
the majority had abdicated its responsibility.
Justice Thomas, in a separate dissent, initially
focused on the majority's holding that public use is
synonymous with public purpose. Justice Thomas
noted that the term public use limits the government's
condemnation powers to takings that ultimately result
in the government owning the land (e.g., army base)
or in the general public having the right to use the
land (e.g., streets and parks)." He opined that by
adopting the public -purpose test, which does not
require public ownership or access, the majority effec-
tively removed this constitutional restraint on the
government's condemnation powers.16
Justice Thomas then focused on the level of defer-
ence that the majority opinion affords the condemn-
ing authority's decision. He argued that the rational -
basis test, when combined with the public purpose
definition of public use, effectively eliminates mean-
ingful review of the government's exercise of eminent
domain." Justice Thomas further noted that the
Court has emphasized the sanctity of the home when
reviewing whether the government may search the
home, but that the Court is unwilling to engage in
serious review when the government takes the home.
He wrote, "Though citizens are safe from the govern-
ment in their homes, the homes themselves are not."18
CONDEMNATION LAW IN MINNESOTA
Minnesota condemnation law mirrors Kelo's sig-
nificant holdings. Yet there are critical differences
between federal and Minnesota law. The differences
make it unclear whether the Minnesota Supreme
Court would rule in the same manner as the United
States Supreme Court given Kelo's facts. The Kelo
decision does not foreclose the Minnesota Supreme
Court from reaching a different result. Indeed, the
Kelo majority expressly reserved the right of states to
place stricter limits on condemnation: "[N]othing in
our opinion precludes any state from placing further
restrictions on its exercise of the takings power.""
The similarities between Minnesota law and the
significant Kelo holdings are obvious. When address-
ing the public use requirement of a taking, the words
"public purpose" are considered to be interchange-
able with "public use" under Minnesota law.20
Likewise, Minnesota courts have recognized eco-
nomic development as a legitimate public purpose.21
Moreover, the scope of review that Minnesota courts
apply to the decisions of the condemning authority is
extremely narrow, and the condemnation will be
reversed only if the government's actions are "mani-
festly arbitrary or unreasonable.""
One major distinction between federal and
Minnesota condemnation law is that under Minnesota
law the condemning authority must show that the tak-
ing is necessary.' A taking is necessary only if the gov-
ernment intends to use the property for an identifiable
public purpose "now or in the near future." Thus, the
government may not stockpile property through con-
demnation for future speculative use.2'
In Kelo, the NLDc did not know how it was going
to use a substantial portion of the condemned prop-
erty. Of the 25 properties targeted for condemnation,
11 were located on a parcel whose use was not speci-
fied by the NLDC's development plan." At oral argu-
ment before the Supreme Court, New London con-
ceded the vagueness of its plans and suggested that
"the parcel might eventually be used for parking."
The NLDC's opaque plan might not have passed
muster in Minnesota.26 In fact, when the University of
Minnesota failed to identify its planned use for a tar-
geted property, the Minnesota Court of Appeals held
that the University did not establish that the taking
was necessary." The vitality of the necessity require-
ment was recently reaffirmed by Hennepin County
District Court. In Minneapolis Cmty. Dev. Agency v.
Reichold, Inc., the district court ruled that, when the
Minneapolis Community Development Agency
("MCDA") let the exclusive development rights granted
to the proposed developer expire, the MCDA had failed
to establish that the taking was necessary."
Another difference between the Kelo decision
and Minnesota law centers on what constitutes a suf-
ficient public purpose to support an economic rede-
velopment condemnation. The split Minnesota
Supreme Court in Walser suggests that Minnesota
might not follow the Kelo ruling, which held the tak-
ing of nonblighted property for economic develop-
ment constitutes a valid public purpose.
The Minnesota Supreme Court's initial public
purpose justification for redevelopment condemna-
tions was based exclusively on the removal of blight.
Requiring blight limited the type of property subject
to condemnation for economic redevelopment.29 A
series of subsequent cases seems to have eroded the
protection afforded by the blight requirement, but
the Minnesota Supreme Court has not addressed the
constitutionality of a redevelopment condemnation
in the absence of blight.
A... .cr'nn Sl! D....-... r_ D. )_ r.
.y
The constitutionality of condemning land for
redevelopment was first squarely addressed by the
Minnesota Supreme Court in the late 1950s.30 The
Court's emphasis on the removal of blight, as
opposed to the economic gains occasioned by rede-
velopment of the land, was motivated by the
restrictions placed on eminent domain by the
Minnesota Constitution." In Hous. & Redev. Auth.
of St. Paul v. Greenman, 96 N.W.2d 673 (Minn.
1959), the targeted landowner argued that, because
the condemned land would ultimately by trans-
ferred to private parties, the condemnation was for
a private purpose; not a public use as required by
Minnesota Constitution.32 The Court avoided this
obstacle by focusing on blight. The Court's ratio-
nale for finding the taking constituted a public pur-
pose was entirely based on the removal of blight,
with the Court emphasizing that the "subsequent
transfer of these lands to private parties is inciden-
tal to the 'main public purpose.""
The Minnesota Supreme Court expanded the def-
inition of public purpose to include economic devel-
opment when Minneapolis was assembling land for
the City Center. In Minneapolis v. Wurtele, 291
N.W2d 386, 390 (Minn. 1980), the Minnesota
Supreme Court found that there were two bases for
finding public purpose: the area was blighted and its
redevelopment would lead to substantial economic
development." Although the taking was justified in
part by economic development, the Court did not
abandon the need to find that the targeted area or
property was blighted.
The Minnesota Court of Appeals ventured
beyond Greenman in Mintleapolis Cmty. Dev. Agency
v. Opts N.W., LLC, 582 N.W.2d 596 (Minn. App.
1998). The Opus decision involved the condemna-
tion of property along Nicollet Mall in downtown
Minneapolis for the construction of a Target store.
None of the project goals enumerated by the Court
of Appeals included the removal of blight. Instead,
the court's public purpose finding was totally based
on economic development. The Opus ruling
appeared to abandon the blight requirement that
underpinned Greenman's public purpose finding."
In Walser, the Minnesota Supreme Court consid-
ered the validity of the taking of a Richfield neigh-
borhood comprising auto dealerships and residential
properties. Richfield officials wanted to take the land
so Best Buy could build its new corporate headquar-
ters on the site. The Court of Appeals held that the
condemning authority had established a public pur-
pose because the taking served to eliminate and pre-
vent blight?' The basis for the blight findings, how-
ever, was remarkably weak. Basically two pieces of
evidence supported the finding of blight. First, the
mix of residential and business properties created haz-
ardous traffic patterns. Second, the auto dealerships'
buildings, although fit for continued use as dealer-
ships, were not top -end commercial facilities. Given
the limited evidence of blight, it is unlikely that the
taking could have survived scrutiny under any analy-
sis more rigorous than the rational -basis test.
The Minnesota Supreme Court's hesitancy to
affirm such a weak blight finding was demonstrated by
its split decision in Walser. The decision of the Court
of Appeals was confirmed as a result of a three -three
tie, with Justice Lancaster recusing herself.17 The
Walser decision seemingly represents an attempt by at
least three of the justices to return to the original
rationale that underpinned the public purpose finding
in Greenman, the removal of blight, as opposed to the
economic development rationale more recently
advanced by the Court of Appeals in Opus.
It is worth noting here that the United States
Supreme Court opinion in Kelo conceded that none
of the targeted properties were blighted.78
Nevertheless, the Court held that deference must be
given to the city's conclusion that New London was
economically distressed and that the takings
advanced economic development of the city, a legit-
imate public purpose in this context.
The reservations that the Minnesota Supreme
Court displayed in Walser would likely be amplified
if the Court were faced with the absence of blight
that presented itself in Kelo. Given the Walser split,
it would not be surprising if the Minnesota Supreme
Court rejected an economic development taking on
public purpose grounds if the taking did not also
serve to remove blight. A decision to the contrary
would completely unmoor the Court's rationale for
finding public purpose from its precedential anchor,
the Greenman case.
CONCLUSION
Some Minnesota condemnations have led to sub-
stantial redevelopment that has had a positive
impact on the community.39 Other Minnesota con-
demnations have had negative impacts primarily on
minorities and the elderly." Despite the Supreme
Court's decision in Kelo, the Minnesota Supreme
Court still faces substantial challenges in balancing
the public goal of redevelopment with the private
property rights of individual citizens. ❑
"The
Minnesota
Supreme
Court's ini.
tial public
purpose jus-
tification ication for
redevelop-
ment con-
demnations
was based
exclusively
on the
'i
removal of
NOTES
I Kelo v. City of New London, 125 S. Ct. 2655, 2658 (U.S. blight."
2005).
2 Id. at 2660.
3 U.S. Const. amend. V ("[Nlor shaU private property be taken
for public use, without just compensation.").
4 Kelo at 2662-3.
5 Id. at 2662.
6 Id. at 2664-5.
7 Id. at 2668.
8 Id. at 2668 citing Haw. Hous. Auth. V. Midkiff, 467 U.S.
229, 241 (1984) and Berman v. Parker, 348 U.S. 26, 75
(1954).
9 Id., 12.5 S. Ct. at 2663 citing Berman, 348 U.S. at 31-33.
10 Id. at 2663-4 citing Midkiff 467 U.S. at 241-2.
11 Id. at 2663-4 citing Midkiff at 235.
12 Id. at 2669 (Kennedy, J., concurring).
13 Id. at 2671 (O'Connor, J., dissenting).
17
AUGUST 2005 / BENCH & BAR
"...the Minnesota Supreme Court still faces substantial challenges in
balancing the public goal of redevelopment with the private property
rights of individual citizens."
14 Id. at 2676 ( "Nothing is to prevent the State from replacing
any Motel 6 with a Ritz-Carlton, any home with a shopping mall,
or any farm with a factory.")
15 Id. at 2679-80 (Thomas, J., dissenting).
16 Id. at 2678.
17 Id. at 2684.
18 Id. at 2685.
19 Id. at 2668.
20 Hous. & Redev. Auth. of Richfield v. Walser Auto Sales,
Inc., 630 NX2d 662, 668 (Minn. App. 2001) quoting
Duluth v. State, 390 N.W.2d757, 763 (Minn. 1986).
21 Minneapolis Cmty. Dev. Agency v. Opus N.W., L -C, 582
N.W.2d 596, 599-600 (Minn. App. 1998) citing Minneapolis
v. Wurtele, 291 N.W.2d 386, 390 (Minn. 1980).
22 Hous. and Redev. Auth. of Minneapolis v. Minneapolis
Metro. Co., 104 N.W.2d 864, 874 (Minn. 1960).
23 Univ. of Minn. v. Chicago & N.W. Transp., 552 N.W.2d
578, 580 (Minn. App. 1996).
24 Id. at 580.
25 Kelo at 2671-2 (O'Connor, J., dissenting).
26 The Connecticut Superior Court was also troubled by the lack
Of necessity and enjoined the N[DC from taking several of the prop-
erties. The Connecticut Supreme Court, while not overruling the
Superior Court's factual findings regarding the lack of a declared
use, reversed the Superior Court by requiring that the condemnee
show that the taking was irrational. Kelo v. New London, 843
A. 2d 500, 572 (Conn. 2004).
27 Univ. of Minn., 552 N.W.2d at 580.
28 Minneapolis Cmty. Dev. Agency v. Reichold, Inc., No.
CD 2673 (Hennepin Cry. Dist. Ct. 07/15104). See also
Jeffrey W. Post is an
officer at Fredrikson &
Byron and has repre-
sented both the govern-
ment and property own-
ers in condemnation
Minneapolis Cmty. Dev. Agency v. Reichold, Inc., No. CD
2673 (Hennepin Cry. Dist. Ct. 05/02105).
29 A non -blighted property may be targeted for a redevelopment
condemnation if it is located in a blighted area and the property's
condemnation is necessary for a redevelopment plan that results in
the removal of blight. Minneapolis Metro. Co., 104 N. W.2d at
875.
30 Hous. & Redev. Auth. of St. Paul v. Greenman, 96
N.W.2d 673 (Minn. 1959).
31 Minn. Const., art. 1 §13 ("Private property shall not be
taken, destroyed or damaged for public use without just compensa-
tion therefor, first paid or secured.").
32 Greenman, 96 N. W.2d at 702-3.
33 Id., 96 N. W.2d at 680; see also Port. Auth. of St. Paul v.
Groppoli, 202 N.W. 2d 371, 374-5 (Minn. 1972).
34 Minneapolis v. Wurtele, 291 N.W.2d 386, 390 (Minn.
1980).
35 Minneapolis Cmty. Dev. Agency v. Opus N.W., LLC, 582
N.W.2d 596, 599-600 (Minn. App. 1998).
36 Hous. & Redev. Auth. of Richfield v. Walser Auto Sales,
Inc., 630N.W.2d662, 669 (Minn. App. 2001).
37 Hous. and Redev. Auth. of Richfield v. Walser Auto Sales,
Inc., 641 N.W.2d885, 891 (Minn. 2002).
38 Kelo, 125 S. Ct. at 2660
39 Terry Fiedler, "Target, Allies Fill Up Office Space,"
Minneapolis Star Tribune, 07/08/05, at DI (noting the positive
impact that keeping the Target headquarters has had on the down-
town Minneapolis real-estate market).
40 Kelo, 125 S. Ct. at 2687 (Thomas, J., dissenting) (noting the
severe impact of condemnations in the 1950s and 1960s on St.
Paul's minority neighborhoods).
18
AUGUST 2005 / BENCH & BAR a'
Melissa A. Baer, a
lawyer at Lindquist &
estate law. She repre
sents developers and
Metropolitan Council
Building communities that work
September 8, 2005 '.
Dear Regional Leader: °r
M4• /
The Regional Policy Initiative conference previously scheduled for Septe er 7, 2005
has been moved to Wednesday, October 26, 2005. The postponement was rompted by
a scheduling conflict by our keynote speaker David Brooks. The Metropolitan Council,
the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs of the University of Minnesota and The
McKnight Foundation are convening the conference.
This half-day conference entitled "The Developing Edge: Managing the Transitions" will
focus on the development issues faced by communities—developing suburbs, rural
communities and exurban communities --in the path of growth. This conference builds on
the discussion at the first regional policy conference held in May 2004 on overall growth
issues in the Twin Cities region.
New York Times columnist David Brooks will keynote the event. Brooks is the author of
On Paradise Drive (May 2004), a book that focuses on life in developing -edge suburbs.
He argues that new suburbs "are not the boring and conformist cul-de-sacs of popular
repute but places where venerable and vibrant American traditions have taken root and
flourished." Brooks is also a weekly guest on public television's "NewsHour with Jim
Lehrer" and a regular commentator on National Public Radio.
The conference will also feature three panels of local officials. One will focus on issues
of fast growing suburbs. A second will highlight the issues confronting rural
communities. The final panel will focus on growth in the Adjacent Counties. Each panel
will spend 15 minutes to summarize their experience and key points regarding growth
pressures and accommodating new development. An interactive audience discussion
with the panels will follow.
A cross-section of regional and local leaders—Metropolitan Council members, local and
county officials, state government officials, business leaders, community organization
leaders and university faculty—will attend.
The conference will be held at the Continuing Education Center on the University of
Minnesota's St. Paul Campus. The conference agenda, a map showing the location of
the conference including parking information, and a fax -back response form are enclosed.
Since space is limited, please respond with the fax -back form or call or email Marit
Enerson at menersonaa,hhh.umn.edu or (612)625-8575 no later than October 19.
Best Regards,
Metropolitan Council Humphrey Institute The McKnight Foundation
www.metrocouncil.org
Metro Info Line 602-1888
230 East Fifth Street - St. Paul, Minnesota 55101-1626 - (651) 602-1000 - Fax 602-1550 - TTY 291-0904
Regional Policy Initiative Conference #2
The Developing Edge: Managing the Transitions
October 26, 2005
7:30 AM to 12 Noon
AGENDA
7:30 AM Registration and Continental Breakfast
8:00 AM Welcome and Introductions, Peggy J. Birk, Interim President McKnight Foundation and
J. Brian Atwood, Dean, Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs
8:15 AM Keynote David Brooks "Suburban Growth -- A National Perspective"
9:00 AM Introduction, Panel Discussions, Peter Bell, Chair of the ?Metropolitan Council
The Developing Edge—Managing the Transitions
9:05 AM Discussion Panel #1: Today's Developing Suburbs
Overview presentation: Bryan Schafer, Community Development Director, City of
Blaine
Participating Panelists:
■ Patrick Trudgeon, Community Development Director, City of Ramsey
■ Dave Olson, Community Development Director, City of Lakeville
Audience discussion with panelists
9:45 AM Break
10:00 AM Discussion Panel #2: Rural Communities in the Path of Development
Overview presentation: Corey Behrendt, Chair Planning Commission, Eureka
Township
Participating Panelists:
■ Leslie Vermillion, Director of Public Works, Scott County
■ David Engstrom, Mayor, City of Afton
Audience discussion with panelists
10:45 AM Discussion Panel #3: Communities in the Adjacent Counties
Overview Presentation: Alan Cottingham, Planning Director, City of North Branch
Participating Panelists:
■ Denny Darnold, Community Development Director City of Hudson, Wisconsin
• Nancy Spooner -Mueller, Director of Planning, Winona County (formerly Planner -
Zoning Administrator, Goodhue County)
■ Marc Weigle, Community Development Director, City of St. Michael
Audience discussion with panelists
11:30 AM Observations and Summary: David Brooks and Peter Bell
11:50 AM Wrap Up: What's next?
12:00 Noon Adjournment
REGIONAL POLICY INITITATIVE CONFERENCE
Continuing Education and Conference Center
1890 Buford Avenue
University of Minnesota, St. Paul Campus
October 26, 2005
Fax -Back Response Form
612-626-9833
Yes, I plan to attend the Regional Policy Initiative Conference on October
26, 2005
No,'I do not plan to attend
Name
Title
Organization
Address
City/State/Zip
Phone
Fax
E-mail
It is important to fill out all the information.
Please RSVP to Marit Enerson no later than October 19, 2005
Fax: 612-626-9833
Phone: 612-625-8575
E-mail: menerson(a)hhh.umn.edu
31
Directions Continuing Education and Conference Center
Driving directions and map to the Continuing Education and Conference Center
From I-694 take 35W south to the Cleveland Avenue exit (Note: exit to the left). Follow Cleveland
Avenue to Larpenteur Avenue. Go east (left) on Larpenteur to Gortner, turn south (right) on Gortner and go
to Buford Avenue. Turn east (left) on Buford Avenue to the parking area.
From I -35W take the Highway 36 exit and turn south on Cleveland Avenue to Larpenteur Avenue. Go east
(left) on Larpenteur to Gortner, turn south (right) on Gortner and go to Buford Avenue. Turn east (left) on
Buford Avenue to the parking area.
From downtown St. Paul: Go west on I-94 to Snelling Ave. Go north on Snelling Ave. to Larpenteur
Avenue. Go west (left) on Larpenteur to Gortner, turn south (left) on Gortner and go to Buford Avenue.
Turn east (left) on Buford Avenue to the parking area.
From downtown Minneapolis: Go east on I-94 to MN -280, exit number 236. (Note: exit to the left).
Merge onto MN -280 north. Exit at Larpenteur Ave. Take Larpenteur east (right) to Gortner (3rd traffic
light). Turn south (right) on Gortner and go to Buford Avenue. Turn east (left) on Buford Avenue to the
parking area.
Parking Rates:
S102
S104
S108
Ramp
P
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for the Summer
$5 if in before 7 a.m. or after 4:30 p.m.
$2.50 0-1 hours
$5.00 1-2 hours
$7.00 2-3 hours
$8.00 3-4 hours
$9.00 4-5 hours
$10.00 5-6 hours
$11.00 6-7 hours
$12.00 daily maximum
36 36
LarpenteurAvenue ;V
Como Avenue
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elm creek
Watershed Management Commission
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE
3235 Fembrook Lane
Plymouth, MN 55447
PH: 763.553.1144
FAX: 763.553.9326
e-mail: judie@jass.biz
September 1, 2005
Representatives
Elm Creek Watershed Management Commission
Hennepin County, MN
Dear Representatives:
TECHNICAL OFFICE
Hennepin County DES
417 North 5th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55401-1397
PH: 612.596.1171
FAX: 612.348.8532
e-mail: Ali.Durgunoglu@co.hennepin.mn.us
A regular meeting of the Elm Creek Watershed Management Commission will be held on Wednesday, September
14, 2005 at 11:30 a.m. in the Emergency Operations Center (downstairs) at Maple Grove City Hall, 12800 Arbor
Lakes Parkway, Maple Grove, MN.
The regular meeting will be preceded at 10:00 a.m. by a study session to 1) review and consider the
Commission's fee schedule and 2) update its wetland monitoring requirements.
Please use the FAX response below to confirm whether you or your Alternate will be attending this meeting. Or e-
mail your attendance to judie(iDiass.biz . Thank you.
Regards,
Judie A. Anderson
Executive Secretary
JAA:tim
Encls
Encls: Meeting Packet cc: Alternates HCES BWSR MPCA
John Barten TAC Met Council DNR
Joel Jamnik Clerks Crow River News
Please return to FAX number 763/553-9326. No cover sheet is required.)
❑ I will ❑ No one from our community will (please check one) be attending
the work session at 10:00 am on Wednesday, September 14, 2005.
❑ I will ❑ No one from our community will (please check one) be attending
the regular meeting at 11:30 am on Wednesday, September 14, 2005.
Signed
BEIm
noticempd
CHAMPLIN- CORCORAN- DAYTON - HASSAN- MAPLEGROVE- MEDINA- PLYMOUTH - ROGERS
WE
elm creek
Watershed Management Commission
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE
TECHNICAL OFFICE
3235 Fernbrook Lane
Hennepin County DES
Plymouth, MN 55447
417 North 5th Street
PH: 763.553.1144
Minneapolis, MN 55401-1397
FAX: 763.553.9326
PH: 612.596.1171
e-mail: JudieQass.biz
FAX: 612.348.8532
e-mail: All.Durgunoglu@co.hennepin.mn.us
AGENDA
September 8, 2005
1. Call to Order.
2. Approve Agenda.
3. Consent Agenda.
a. Minutes of August Meeting.*
b. Treasurer's Report and Claims.**
4. Action Items.
a. Project Reviews - see page 2.
b. River Watch Agreement.*
5. New Business.
a. Correspondence.
1) Friends of Elm Creek.*
b. Channel Study.
1) August update.*
C. Project Review Fees .**
Study session is scheduled for 10:00 a.m., prior to the regular meeting.
6. Old Business.
7. Project Reviews - see page 2.
8. Other Business.
9. Adjournment.
in meeting packet
34- available at meeting
CHAMPLIN - CORCORAN - DAYTON - HASSAN - MAPLE GROVE - MEDINA - PLYMOUTH - ROGERS
7. Project Reviews. (Also see Status Report.*) A = Action item E = enclosure provided R = will be removed
a.
2001-013 The Preserve and Hidden Oaks at Elm Creek WCA application, Champlin.
b.
2003-053 Weber WCA Violation, Hassan.
C.
2004-001 Three Rivers Estates, Hassan.
d.
2004-042 Northdale Blvd., James Road Utility Project, Hassan
e.
2004-046 Maple Creek Restoration, Maple Grove.
E
f.
2004-050 Walgreen's, Maple Grove.
g.
2004-054 City County Federal Credit Union, Maple Grove.
h.
2004-078 Hedgestone, Corcoran.
i.
2005-008 Ace Retail/Medina Retail Phase 2, Medina.
j.
2005-012 Fieldstone Meadows, Maple Grove.
k.
2005-018 Fieldstone 6' Addition, Maple Grove.
E
1.2005-027
The Grove/Rupert Property, Maple Grove.
E
m.
2005-036 Medina Retail, Medina.
E
n
2005-038 Jubert Lake WCA - Saari Property, Corcoran.
o.
2005-039 Minnesota RV, Dayton.
P.
2005-042 Tollefson Concept Plan, Maple Grove
A E
q.
2005-046 Maple Creek Estates North, Maple Grove.
r.
2005-047 Rush Creek Meadows, Corcoran.
E
S.
2005-048 Rogers Marketplace, Rogers.
E
t.
2005-050 South Teal Crossing, Maple Grove.
U.
2005-051 Johnson's Grove, Maple Grove.
V.
2005-053 Lakes Area Realty Parcel, Corcoran.
W.
2005-054 Industrial Boulevard Extension, Rogers.
E
X.
2005-055 White Oak Acres, Maple Grove.
Y.
2005-056 Russell and Diana Straate, Medina.
Z.
2005-057 Maria Meadows, Hassan.
aa.
2005-058 Diamond Lake Village, Rogers.
ab.
2005-064 Spring Meadow Estates, Corcoran.
ac.
2005-065 Timbers at Elm Creek EAW, Maple Grove.
ad.
2005-066 Country Meadows, Hassan.
ae.
2005-067 Muddy Paws PUD, Maple Grove.
E
a£
2005-068 Carefree Storage Center, Rogers.
E
ag.
2005-069 Dunlavin Woods Pedestrian Trail/Bridge, Maple Grove,
ah.
2005-070 CSAH 116/ CSAH 10, Corcoran.
ai.
2005-071 Schober Estates, Maple Grove.
E
aj.
2005-072 Nystrom Meadows, Corcoran.
E
ak.
2005-073 Murray/Hodgin Concept Plan, Corcoran.
al.
am.
an.
an.
ap.
aq.
at.
as.
at.
an.
ay.
aw.
City of Plymouth
News Release
For Immediate Release
September 8, 2005
Contact:
Laurie Ahrens, 763.509.5052
Judy Johnson, 763-509-5007
City of Plymouth Ready to Respond if Called to Aid with Hurricane Relief
Just as the state of Minnesota has made preparations to house Gulf State residents affected by
Hurricane Katrina, the City of Plymouth is also preparing to help if called upon by federal officials.
Answering a call by Governor Tim Pawlenty, Plymouth city officials have been collecting
information on housing and job availability in the community. In addition, Plymouth firefighters
helped with a regional collection of supplies and donations. Other Plymouth public safety officials are
prepared to head south if needed.
"As victims of Hurricane Katrina are relocated to Minnesota, cities will be key players in those
efforts. Those left homeless and jobless by the hurricane and flooding will live and work in our
communities. Plymouth is definitely part of the efforts to help them rebuild their lives," said Mayor
Judy Johnson.
Already City of Plymouth housing officials have conducted an inventory of apartment
vacancies in Plymouth as well as talked with the Twin West Chamber of Commerce about short-term
and long-term jobs that may be available when hurricane victims are relocated to Minnesota. Local
government staff members have also been in touch with area human service agencies.
Eight Plymouth firefighters helped collect donations and supplies at HOM Furniture as part of a
regional relief effort during the past few days. In addition, the Police and Fire Departments have police
officers and firefighters prepared to go to the Gulf States if called upon.
As president of the League of Minnesota Cities, Plymouth Mayor Judy Johnson has also been
active in getting information to cities throughout the state about how they can be ready to help when
called upon.
City staff members have fielded many calls from concerned residents wondering how they can
help. As requested by state and federal officials, the City has been referring callers to United Way's
First Call for Help 211 Service as well as the Federal Emergency Management web site,
www.fema.gov. The FEMA web site lists reputable organizations such as the Red Cross, Salvation
Army and United Way that are heading up relief efforts.
"People want to help, but it's essential that those efforts be coordinated. If they are haphazard,
relief efforts become confused, inefficient and, sadly, ineffective. While we're not collecting supplies
on our own, we want to get those people with supplies, skills and housing in touch with the agencies
that are charged with heading up the efforts," Johnson said.
"We're also prepared to send Plymouth City staff to the affected states if called upon by federal
or state officials. Like so many others, we want to help our fellow citizens who have suffered such
devastating losses," said Johnson.
City of Plymouth
News Advisory
For Immediate Release
Plymouth Officials to Break Ground on September 19 for
New Senior Apartment Building, Vicksburg Crossing
Contact: Plymouth Housing Program Manager Jim Barnes, 763-509-5412
What: Groundbreaking for Vicksburg Crossing, a 96 -unit apartment complex being planned by the
Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority.
When: Monday, September 19, 4:30 p.m.
Where: 3155 Vicksburg Lane, Plymouth (Southwest Corner of Highway 55 and Vicksburg Lane)
Who: Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority and City Officials
Background: The Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) is building a new 96 -
unit apartment project at the southwest corner of Hwy. 55 and Vicksburg Ln. The four-story building,
called Vicksburg Crossing, is expected to be finished in the fall of 2006.
The $11.7 million dollar HRA project is part of the redevelopment of the Dana -Spicer site. In addition
to Vicksburg Crossing, a private developer is building The Shops at Plymouth Creek on the same
corner. The Shops at Plymouth Creek will include several major retailers, including Lowe's Home
Improvement, Walgreens, Michael's Arts & Crafts and M&I Bank.
Vicksburg Crossing will include a mix of one -bedroom, one -bedroom plus den and two-bedroom units.
The project will include both market rate units and affordable units. Thirty-five percent of Vicksburg
Crossing's units will be set at an amount that is affordable to households that earn less than 50% of the
area's median income. All affordable units will be one -bedrooms.
City of Plymouth
News Release
For Immediate Release
September 9, 2005, 2005
Contact:
Brian Young, 763-509-5992
City of Plymouth Water Crews to Flush Water Mains
City of Plymouth workers will flush water mains in September and October on the following
schedule.
• Industrial areas, both sides of I-494, south of Hwy. 55: Sept. 26 - 28.
• Residential areas, west of I-494, except Camelot: Sept. 27 — Oct.14.
• Residential areas, east of I-494, and Camelot: Oct. 17 - 28.
Your water could be discolored throughout this time, but it is more likely on the day crews flush
your area. Please avoid doing laundry on that day. If you have discolored water, let your outdoor water
faucet run until the water is clear. To find out which day your area will be flushed, call
763-509-5950 after Sept. 15.
31
City of Plymouth
News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Sara Cwayna, 763-509-5198
September 2005 Sgt. Curtis Smith, 763-509-5191
The Plymouth Crime and Fire Fund Teams Up with
Plymouth Fire and Police Departments
to Promote Literacy and Make Reading Fun.
"Children who read well do better in all aspects of schooling and beyond," said Corky Ornburg, Plymouth
Crime and Fire Prevention Fund (PC&FPF) Board Member and retired teacher from the Wayzata School
District. "Reading is the foundation for learning. Role models who are good at storytelling can make
reading magical for kids. We hope to inspire students to imagine the possibilities," said Ornburg. "We've
been working on this literacy project for over year and are thrilled to make it happen".
The Plymouth Crime and Fire Prevention Fund is a non-profit, all volunteer organization that was
established by residents and business owners in 1977. The Fund's mission is to work with the Plymouth
Police and Fire Departments to identify and develop new initiatives, support ongoing programs, and
purchase state -of -the art equipment that reduces crime and enhances safety in our community.
The PC&FPF had two miniature bookmobiles built -one in the shape of a squad car and one in the
shape of a fire truck. Kids can climb into the custom bookmobiles, pick out a special book on safety,
work on an activity sheets, or watch a video. Police officers and firefighters hope to visit classrooms
during the school year to read to kids while the traveling bookmobile is at their school.
"By making reading fun, we hope to inspire kids to read and teach them about safety at the same time,"
said Police Chief Mike Goldstein. "This is a win-win project. Kids get excited about reading in the fire
truck and squad car and firefighters and police officers axe positive role models in the classroom," said Fire
Chief Richard Kline.
To learn more about the Plymouth Crime and Fire Prevention Fund or to make a tax-deductible
donation, please call 763-509-5198.
Crime PreventionNewsletterv
Plymouth, MN Volume 2 Number 4
Think Before You Give: Charitable Giving Scams
In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, many Americans want to help the victims of this devastating natural
disaster. Many people have already generously donated much needed money and necessities. Many more
people will donate in the coming days and months. However, not all of the donations made will make it to
hurricane victims. In times of crisis, many criminals also take advantage of the generosity and goodwill of
our citizens to line their own pockets or steal personal identities. Many fraudulent scams typically arrive
via mass email mailings. The fraudulent organizations usually have names very similar to reputable
organizations. The solicitation is designed have individual donate by using their credit card, thus obtaining
personal and credit card information. Some of the fraudulent mailings may also contain hidden viruses,
Trojan horses, Spy Ware, or other malicious code designed to obtain information off the individual's
computer needed for identity theft.
Always be careful in making donations, especially on-line. Do not feel pressured to give without further
research into the organization. Reputable organizations will still need the donations in the next days,
weeks, even months to come. Things to remember are:
✓ How experienced is the organization in carrying out relief efforts? Many new charities may have
good intentions, but may not be able to effectively get the assistance to those who need it.
✓ Know exactly where your donation is going and what it will be used for. Where will excess
donations go to after the charity ends its relief involvement?
✓ Make donations by check or money order made out to the organization. Do not give cash and do
not make your check out to the individual who is collecting on behalf of the organization.
✓ Be careful about donating in response to unsolicited phone or email requests. Do not give out
credit card information over the phone or via email in response to these requests. Ask for written
information about the charity and it's financial statements. To fmd out more about the Standard
of Charity Accountability, see the Better Business Website www. ive.org.
✓ Remember, not all donations are tax deductible. Only donations made to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt
charitable organizations are deductible. To find out if your gift is deductible, go to www.irs.gov.
Please continue to assist in whatever way you can. The victims need you help. However, taking a few
minutes to know who you are donating to can help ensure your donation is going to help the victims and
can help prevent you from also becoming a victim—of identity theft.
For more information about charitable giving scams and to obtain a list of reputable organizations, go to www.eive.org or
www.fenia.gov.
Along for the Ride
The Plymouth Police Department invites you to join us on a monthly virtual ride along. Tune in to our new TV show,
"Along for the Ride." "Along for the Ride" will air on local cable Channel 20 Wednesday evenings at 8:30 p.m. and
on cable Channel 16 Monday evenings at 6:00 p.m. and Saturday mornings at 6:00 a.m. Each month, we will highlight
different police activities, services, programs, and safety topics. Get to know the Plymouth Police Department in a
whole new way!
We welcome your input! If you would like to see a topic covered on "Along for the Ride" or have a question or a
comment about the program, call 763-509-5139 or go to alongfortheride@eci.pllymouth.mn.us.
4a
Home Burglaries and Residential Thefts: Don't be a Victim
In the past month, there has been an increase in residential garage burglaries and thefts from parked cars.
Criminals usually gain entrance into homes through open overhead garage doors or unlocked garage
service doors. Unlocked sliding glass doors and windows are also vulnerable areas. Criminals typically
target tools, beer, golf clubs, and bikes from garages and stereo equipment, CDs, purses, and laptops from
parked cars. Thefts occur during in the nighttime hours, but garage burglaries often occur during the day.
The police department is asking for the community's help in reducing this crime. Please keep a watchful
eye out and call 9-1-1 immediately if you see or hear anything suspicious. Some examples of suspicious
activity are:
• People lurking around homes, hiding from passing traffic, or looking into cars
• A car stopped in the street, running, in front of a home, with a driver waiting inside
• People sneaking into garages
• The sound of breaking glass
There are several steps you can take to help reduce the chance of becoming a victim of home burglary.
First, keep your overhead garage door CLOSED at all times. Next, lock all exterior doors to your home,
including the garage service door and sliding glass doors. Also, keep ground floor windows closed and
locked when not home. For specific safety recommendations for your home, call the Crime Prevention
Unit at 763-509-5147 and request a premise security survey of your home.
To help reduce theft from your cars, lock you car and remove valuables from your car. Remember that cell
phones, CDs, purses, briefcases, laptops, portable TVs, IPODS, sunglasses, clothing, small change, etc. are
all tempting to thieves. By taking some basic safety precautions, you can help reduce your chance of
becoming the next victim.
Featured Crime Prevention Program: McGruff Truck
Next time you see a City of Plymouth vehicle, check it out! If you see McGruff (left) on the side of
the truck, you and your children know it is a safe place to go in case of emergency. If your child is
a victim of bullying, your child has been approached by a stranger, they are lost, or as an adult, you
are you the victim of a crime and do not have access to a phone, McGruff trucks can help!
McGruff truck drivers know how to contact police and they will provide a safe place for you or
your child to wait for the police. Remember, teach children to wave down the McGrufftruck driver
with both hands from a safe distance, preferably from the sidewalk. Never run out into the street or
approach the truck from behind. So next time you are out, look for McGruff. Help take a bite out of crime!
In Case of Emer enc I.C.E. If IN see suspicious acu. e l
9 Y )
would paramedics, police, or other emergency personnel contact for please
What if there was an emergency and you were not at home? Who w1l 9-1-1 immediately,
emergency information?
The Plymouth Police Department offers File of Life cards in both
home refrigerator magnets and wallet -sized varieties, free of
charge. However, in addition to carrying a File Of Life card, the
newest trend for emergencies is to enter an emergency contact
person in your cellular phone contact list under ICE (In Case of
Emergency.) Many paramedics and other law enforcement
personnel are familiar with ICE and will check your cell phone
book in the event of an emergency and you are unable to
communicate. Your ICE contact should be familiar with your
medical conditions, medications, doctors, hospital choices, and
other needed information. A few seconds now to enter an ICE
contact in your phone can be a lifesaver in an emergency!
Helpful Reminders:
Street Parking Restrictions:
Vehicles cannot be parked on any public city
street between the hours of 2:00-5:00 AM. To
request an overnight parking permit, contact the
Plymouth Police Department at 763-509-5160.
Hennepin County Curfew:
Under 15: 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM (Sun-Thurs)
11:00 PM to 5:00 AM (Fri/Sat)
15-16: 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM (Sun-Thurs)
Midnight to 5:00 AM (Fri/Sat)
Age 17: Midnight to 5:00 AM
Emergency: 9-1-1 Non -emergency: 763-525-6210 Crime Information Line: 763-509-5177
If you have any comments about this newsletter, please contact Officer Angela Haseman at the Plymouth Police
Department, 3400 Plymouth Blvd., Plymouth, MN 55447, 763-509-5147 or at ahaseman()ci.olymouth.mn.us. Thank you!
4-7—
DATE: August 26, 2005
TO: Laurie Ahrens, City Manager
FROM: (�te, P.E., Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: CAMELOT LAKE PARK PEDESTRIAN CROSSING
As requested by Councilmember Hewitt during discussions regarding the Taryn Hills
development, we have investigated the existing crosswalk across Colony Road 47 at Camelot
Lake Park to determine the need for additional signage. All of the appropriate pedestrian
crossing signage is currently in place at this crosswalk as well as at the existing crosswalk across
County Road 47 at Yucca Lane. Jim Grube from Hennepin County had suggested supplemental
in -street pedestrian crossing signs such as those in place in downtown Maple Grove and
Wayzata. However, as we discussed, I have serious resolutions about placing those signs on
County Road 47 due to the narrow roadway and higher vehicular speeds.
MnDOT recently issued the attached Technical Memorandum in which MnDOT has adopted a
policy restricting the use of these signs to roadways posted at 35 m.p.h. or less. Accordingly, I
would not recommend installing in -street crossing signs at this location. We will continue to
monitor this location and investigate other potential signage improvements.
attachments
O: \Engineering\GENERAL\MEMOS\DORA N\2005\CarnelotLkPk_PedCross. doe
o ^�Nt4esnr�2
MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Operations, Safety, and Technology Division
a Technical Memorandum No. 04-11-T-02
a
December 22, 2004
`�zr ya
Or 7F1P�
To: Distribution 57, 382, 612, 618, and 650
From: Marthand Nookala, Director
Traffic Operations, Safety and Technology
Subject: In -Street Pedestrian Crossing Signs
Expiration
This is a new technical memorandum and will remain in effect until December 31, 2008, unless
superseded before that date or incorporated into the Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic
Control Devices (MN MUTCD.
Implementation
This policy shall be implemented immediately.
Introduction
The Federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices 2003 edition approved use of In -Street
Pedestrian Crossing Signs. Minnesota will be adding this sign as an option in the 2005 edition of the
MN MUTCD. Until this sign is incorporated into the MN MUTCD this technical memorandum
documents the approval of this device when installed under the following guidelines.
The In -Street Pedestrian Crossing sign (R1 -6b) may be used to remind road users of the Minnesota
state law which requires the driver of a vehicle to stop to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian
crossing the roadway within a marked or unmarked crosswalk.
Purpose
The purpose of this technical memorandum is to allow the usage of and give guidance for the
installation of In -Street Pedestrian Crossing Sign (R1 -6b) in accordance with the Federal Manual on
Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways (MUTCD) 2003 edition.
Guidelines
Standard for Use of In -Street Pedestrian Crossing Signs
a. The sign shall not be used at intersections whose approaches are controlled by
either stop signs or traffic control signals.
b. The sign should only be used at key locations, such as high volume pedestrian
crosswalks, to avoid overuse.
c. The sign shall only be used as an in -street sign, not on the outside shoulder or
parking lane. When installed, the sign shall not impede or obstruct any traffic
movement including through or turning movements.
d. When the sign is used at or in advance of a school crossing to supplement the
ground mounted school warning signs, the sign shall include the SCHOOL
plaque.
e. The STOP FOR legend shall be used as Minnesota state law specifically
requires that a driver must stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk.
-MORE-
Technical Memorandum No. 04-11-T-02
In -Street Pedestrian Crossing Signs
December 22, 2004
Page 2
f. The sign shall have a black legend and border on white and fluorescent yellow -
green background and shall have the same dimensions as shown on the
standard sign drawing for the In -Street & Post Mounted Pedestrian Crossing Sign
(R1 -6b) (see attachment).
g. Signs shall have the same sign message on both sides or a reflective strip
mounted on the backside the same color as the centerline or lane line used. To
avoid driver confusion, back-to-back signs should only be used on two-lane, two-
way roadways. For typical intersection placement see the attached Typical
Placement of In -Street Pedestrian Crossing Signs figure.
h. If the sign is placed in the roadway, the device shall meet the crashworthiness
requirements of NCHRP-350 Category 2 for 70 km/h (45 mph).
i. The MN MUTCD provisions of Section 2A.18 concerning mounting height are not
applicable for the In -Street Pedestrian Crossing Sign. The maximum mounting
height shall be 610 mm (2 feet) to the bottom of the sign.
J . The sign may be used seasonally to prevent damage in winter because of
plowing operations, and may be removed at night if the pedestrian activity at
night is minimal.
Specific Mn/DOT Policy
The Minnesota Department of Transportation has adopted the following additional guidelines
for all trunk highways. Local road authorities may adopt similar additional guidelines for
consistency.
a. The sign shall be installed by permit only through Mn/DOT District Offices.
b. The sign shall only be used in 55 km/h (35 mph) or lower speed zones.
c. Only one sign structure shall be used per approach at marked crosswalks.
Scope
The policy contained in this technical memorandum applies to all public roadways except
Section VI which applies only to roadways under the jurisdiction of Mn/DOT.
Questions
Questions regarding the content of this Technical Memorandum may be directed to Mike Weiss, State
Signing Engineer at 651-284-3440.
Any questions regarding the publication or distribution of this Technical Memorandum should be
referred to Benjamin Christensen, Design Standards Unit 651-284-3447, or Mohammad Dehdashti,
Design Standards Engineer 651-296-4859. All active and a list of historical Technical Memoranda
can be viewed at http://www.dot.state.mn.us/tecsup/tmemo/index.htmI
Attachment(s) R1 -6b, In Street & Post Mounted Pedestrian Crossing Sign
Typical Placement of In -Street Pedestrian Crossing Signs
-END-
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Typical Placement of
In -Street Pedestrian Crossing Signs
Four -Lane Undivided Roadway
Four -Lane Divided Roadway
with Turn Lanes
STOP STOP
FOR; FOR
Two -Lane, Two -Way Roadway
Two -Lane, Two -Way Roadway
with Center Turn Lane
Leaend
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q Single Sided Structure
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DATE: September 2, 2005
TO: Laurie Ahrens, City Manager
FROM: qw4<ote, P.E., Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: LANDSCAPING FOR WATER QUALITY GRANT PROGRAM
As requested by Councilmember Willis, attached please find the program description and
application assessment for the above referenced program.
attachments
O:\Engineering\GENERAL\MEMOS\DORAN\2005\LandscapingGrant_Laurie. doc
City of Plymouth
Landscaping for Water Quality Grant Program
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
763-509-5526.--
Grants
63-509-5526-Grants for landscaping projects that benefit water quality
The City of Plymouth supports environmental education and neighborhood landscaping
practices that improve water quality. To encourage these practices and to demonstrate
their potential for successfully fulfilling both environmental and aesthetic requirements,
the City has established a grant program for landscapes that benefit water quality.
1. Purpose of Grant
This program is established to encourage and support community-based initiatives to
protect water quality and promote the use of native upland and aquatic plant species for
our local ecological region.
11. Award Amounts
The total available amount in 2005 is $3,400. Maximum grant amount for any single
project is $500.
111. Eligible Applicants
Property owners, community associations, businesses, schools and educational
institutions, non -profits and other community organizations.
IV. Eligible Activities
Activities that transform a portion of a lawn to native landscaping are eligible for
consideration. (See examples below.)
V. Participant Commitment
Participants must make a commitment to complete and maintain their project.
V1. Public Promotion of Projects and Acknowledgment Requirements
• Recipients will be asked to work with the City to seek media coverage for their
project(s).
• Recipients will be asked to allow others to look at their project. This will be part of
an ongoing effort to educate other Plymouth residents about the benefits of
native landscaping.
• All publications and publicity generated as part of this project must include
acknowledgment of the City of Plymouth.
• Recipients will be encouraged to display pictures of their work at the spring
Plymouth Environmental Fair.
VII. Deadline
Applications for 2005 grants are due on April 29th.
IX. Award of Grant
Announcement of grant approvals will occur the week of May 9th. All applicants will
receive written notification regarding their request for funding. Maximum grant amount
for any project is $500. Payment will be made upon completion of work and submission
of payment request accompanied by original receipts for expenses.
X. Examples of improving water quality and local ecology
• Reduce the use of Kentucky bluegrass.
0 Engineerin-\WTRRESRC\EDUCATIO\S mal IGran ts\2005\05;rantINFORMATION.doc
• Reduce impervious surfaces (concrete, rock, asphalt, buildings).
• Increase native plants (grasses, ground covers, flowers, shrubs, trees).
• Create a buffer area of native plants near a lake, wetland or creek.
Which will:
• Slow down or reduce runoff to lakes, wetlands, streams, storm drains.
Native plants are better at absorbing the extra nutrients, which flow across
your yard during a rainstorm.
• Reduce lakeshore and stream bank erosion by planting native species
with longer root systems.
• Increase wildlife habitat. Kentucky bluegrass does not provide food and
shelter for many species of wildlife.
• Reduce watering by planting native plants that do not require as much
watering as Kentucky bluegrass.
O:\Engineering\WTRRES RC\EDUCATIO\SmallGrants\2005\05granL[N FOR MATION.doc
Nor
City of Plymouth, Environmental Quality Committee:
Water Quality Grant Application
Return to: Derek Asche, City of Plymouth, 3400 Plymouth Blvd, Plymouth, MN
55447. Phone: 763-509-5526 Fax 763-509-5510
Applicant Name:
Title:
Affiliation:
Address:
City: _
Telephone:
E-mail:
Project Title:
Start and End Dates:
Total Cost of Project:
Amount requested from City of Plymouth:
Other sources of funding with amounts:
Application date:
State: Zip:
FAX: ( )
I. Narrative (Use additional pages if needed.)
Please describe the major purpose of your project. (Refer to item X on Small
Grant Information Form for
List Action Steps necessary to accomplish your objectives (plan, install, maintain,
educate).
Indicate the location of your project.
(over)
Describe your level of commitment to this project.
Outline the time frame for completing this project.
II. Budget Please provide a budget breakdown, with a brief description for
each line item.
Line Item $ Requested
1. Supplies (Plants, seeds, landscaping materials)
2. Equipment
3. Resource Materials
4. Miscellaneous
Total project cost:
$
III. Partners
List all participants in this project and their role.
W
IV. Please attach a sketch/plan of proposed project
Or attach additional related information.
Native Planting Guide
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO PLANT WILDFLOWERS?
Many wild flowers prefer early to mid spring plantings (especially here in the northern States).
If you are seeding annuals, many of them form a rosette after germination in the fall and then
complete their life cycle the following spring. Seeding is often delayed in the spring by the
excess moisture that will postpone the planting date until early summer. However, in general
planting in Spring also provides protection from erosion and rodents.
DO I NEED TO WATER WILDFLOWERS?
Obviously a certain amount of water is necessary for germination to occur. Some companies
suggest that keeping the seeded area moist for six weeks is essential. However, most of the time
this is not necessary. It is wise to keep the seedlings from drying out completely, but a continual
watering is not needed. Wildflowers are hardy; they are very drought tolerant. Watering is nice
but not essential. In addition, too much water can cause root rot and leaf mold in many species.
Monitor water applications closely. More is not necessarily better.
HOW DO I PREPARE THE SOIL?
Just because it is a wildflower doesn't mean that simply scattering the seed will be sufficient. The
seeds must touch the soil and need to be covered only slightly. A wildflower seed bed should
look just like any other flower bed. Do not seed into existing vegetation, realize that the
probability of success is greatly diminished. Cultivation to remove weeds is necessary; many
times this must be done several times during one year's time to insure success. Another method
of weed control is the application of a short duration herbicide (i.e. Roundup, etc), but the use of
the herbicides should only be done while closely following the manufacturer's instructions,
and allow sufficient time before planting your wildflower seeds.
A very light mulch of wheat or oat straw will hold the seeds in place and act as a retardant
against invasive weeds. Many people choose to plant a cover crop for erosion control. Even if
these cover crops winter kill, yet the root stock will serve as a soil stabilizer.
HOW DO I PLANT WILDFLOWERS? (This is the most crucial aspect of establishing your
native planting garden/area)
Probably the single greatest mistake made with wildflowers is improper planting. The typical
flower seed from domesticated species is planted about one inch deep in the soil. Wildflowers,
however, will not tolerate this depth. A planting depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch is preferred. The seeds
will germinate at greater depths, but do not have the strength to push through the over -lying soil.
Another common question is identification of seedlings. If you do not know what the seedlings
will look like, plant your wildflowers in a row and pull up anything outside that row. If planting
on a larger scale, use a grassland seeder that allows for the calibration of the depth and rate of
planting. With your wildflowers in rows you can even cultivate them during the early
establishment period, and this is helpful in controlling weeds.
O:\Engineering\WTRRESRC\EDUCATIO\SmallGrants\Forms_Info\Native Planting Guide4_OO.docPage 1 of 2
Excerpts used ivith permission from Sharp Bros. Seed Co. Web site (1-800-451-379) 4/00
Make sure you mark all your plants, plant them in rows, and use gardening ropes to line them up.
Don't worry about the natural look, after they are established, they will naturally form clumps
and fill in.
SHOULD I MOW MY WILDFLOWER PLANTING?
If the planting is all perennials then yes, mow three or four times during the first growing season.
The mowing should be done at a height of 6 to 8 inches. If you have annuals, weed control by
hand pulling is preferred, or scheduling the mowing after the seed has set after blooming.
WHERE DO I PLANT WILDFLOWERS?
Native species of wildflowers will adapt to most sites that are well drained and receive sun.
Almost all wildflowers require about six hours of sunlight for them to survive. Obviously some
plants are better adapted to wetter or drier sites. This fact is usually mentioned in the descriptions
of the species. Also look for mixtures designed for specific areas, i.e. wetland or dryland mixes.
WHAT ABOUT THE ADDITION OF FERTILIZER TO THE WILDFLOWER PLANTING?
Initially, don't do it. The first year of growth for most wildflowers is a time of root establishment.
Fertilizer would be used by the invasive weeds which you don't want. The benefit to your
wildflowers would be minimal with only an increase in vegetative (top) growth seen. Save your
fertilizer for an established stand that is several years old.
WHEN WILL MY WILDFLOWERS BLOOM?
Annuals will bloom the first full growing season. Perennials normally will not bloom until the
second growing season. Some may require three years. Patience is the key.
O:\Engineering\WTRRESRC\EDUCATIO\SmaIIGrants\Forms Info\Native Planting Guide4_00.docPage 2 of 2
Excerpts used with permission from Sharp Bros. Seed Co. Web site (1-800-451-31-79) 1-4f -- 4100
Resource Connections
City of Plymouth Engineering 763-509-5500
www.ci.plymouth.mn.us
Citizens' Guide series of information brochures: Native Plants, Phosphorus -free Fertilizer,
Erosion Control and Wetlands. Call 763-509-5500 to receive a copy.
Hennepin County Environmental Services 612-348-6509
www.co.hennepin.mn.uslenvironmental
Information on managing your yard in an environmentally friendly way, with topics ranging from
composting to the proper disposal of fertilizers and weed killers.
Eco -Yard Demonstration Site
The Eco -Yard is open throughout the season for self -guided tours to learn about environmentally
friendly landscaping. Periodic workshops on sustainable landscaping are also offered.
For more information, call 612-348-2477.
8100 Jefferson Hwy, Brooklyn Park
University of Minnesota - Extension Service
Provides education programs on a variety of -topics, including yard and garden information.
INFO -U Hotline - 612-624-2200
Yard and Garden Line - 612-624-4771
Hennepin County Master Gardener Hotline - 612-374-8433
www.extension.umn.edu/hort/
Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Services
www.sustland.umn.edu/
SULTS provides sustainable landscape information to the public and to the horticulture/landscape
industry, from planning to maintenance.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
www.drinstate.mn.us/backyard
Plans, planting instructions and plant lists for native planting and rain gardens ("wet meadows").
Minnesota's Bookstore — 651-297-3000
Two books with background and step-by-step guide to landscaping.
Lakescaping for Wildlife and Water Quality and Landscaping for Wildlife
Restore Your Shore CD ROM
Native plant sources
Outback Nursery
Prairie Nursery
Sharp Bros. Seed Co.
Landscape Alternatives
North American Prairies Co.
Prairie Restorations, Inc.
Prairie Moon Nursery
Hild and Assoc.
Dragonfly Gardens
www.outbcknursery.com
651-438-2771
www.prairienursery.com
www.sharpseed.com
landscapealt@earthlink.net
651-488-3142
www.northamericanprairies.com 320-274-5316
www.prairieresto.com
763-389-4342
www.prairiemoonnursery.com
507-452-1362
http://www.hildnatives.com
715-426-5131
800-790-9495
http://dragonflyaardens.net
715-268-7660
676
O:\Engineering\ WTRRESRC\EDUCATIO\S mal lGrants\Forms_Info\ResourceConnections.doc
Small Grant Assessment Sheet
Applicant information:
Name:
Address:
Phone, fax, e-mail:
Issue addressed: (one point for each addressed)
Erosion Runoff Infiltration
Points earned
Issue addressed
Habitat restoration Education Other
Ease of replication:
4 Very easy to replicate 3 Easy to replicate 2_ Difficult to replicate Ease of Replication
1 Cannot be replicated
Application to other Plymouth properties:
4 Applies to most properties in Plymouth
3 Applies to some properties in Plymouth
2 Applies to few properties in Plymouth Application
1 A unique situation that would rarely apply to properties in Plymouth
Scope of project impact
7 Neighborhood project
6 Multiple property owners; accessible for public viewing
5 Multiple property owners; not accessible for public viewing
4 Single property owner with larger group participation; accessible for
public viewing
3 Single property owner with larger group participation; not accessible for
public viewing Scope of impact
2 Single property owner; accessible for public viewing
1 Single property owner; not accessible for public viewing
Sensitivity of area
3 2 1 Sensitivity
Total score
5-7
DATE: September 2, 2005
TO: Laurie Ahrens, City Manager
FROM:n Cote, P.E., Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: LAWNDALE LANE EXTENSION/CONNECTION IN MAPLE GROVE
As you requested, I met with Mr. Gerry Butcher, Maple Grove Public Works Director, to discuss
Maple Grove's position regarding the potential connection of Peony Lane to Lawndale Lane.
Mr. Butcher advised me that Maple Grove supports the concept and that this concept was
contemplated in their Transportation Plan (see attached). He further advised me that the only
unknown was the specific alignment south of Maple Grove's corporate limits. Maple Grove has
constructed Lawndale Lane as a 4 -lane undivided roadway north of 63rd Avenue in anticipation
of the travel demands resulting from this connection. This matter was also a topic of discussion
in a 1995 joint City Council meeting between Maple Grove and Plymouth. Mr. Butcher also
confirmed that it is anticipated that the roadway, when completed between TH 55 and Bass Lake
Road (CSAR 10), would be considered for a jurisdictional transfer with Hennepin County.
attachments
0:\Engineering\GENERAL\MEMOS\DORAN\2005\ awndaleLn_MapleGr_Laurie.doc
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Construct 4 -lane Divided
Construct 4 -lane Undivided
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Construct 2 -lane Undivided
—••—• Municipal Boundary
City of CITY OF MAPLE GROVE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
'Maple Roadway System Improvement Pian
Grove
FIGURE
11
June 2001
City are currently designated as "A" minor arterials in the regional
s include both existing roadways and proposed new or realigned
7arlinry Lane Reliever — This route crosses the City from south to
e`io one and one-half miles west of the east City limits. It runs from
limits to the proposed TH 610 interchange. It also interchanges
of which it is designated CSAH 61. North of CSAR 81 to the
'liange, it is designated County Road 202. This route includes the
1i of new roadway between 77th Avenue North and County Road 109
h a < n through the sand/gravel extraction area.
2 'Lawndale Lane/Dunkirk Lane/Fernbrook Avenue (EUander) — This route is aligned
from south to north on the west side of the City. It interchanges with both I-94
d TH` 610 and aligns with Fernbrook Avenue north of CSAH 81. This route
r 'as of equal portions of existing and new roadway segments. On the south it
the City at Lawndale Lane, following this road to about 77th Avenue North.
M ,ikel
� y be connected to Peony Lane in the City of Plymouth, which in the
h Transportation Plan is designated a minor arterial. When completed, this
will become the most important roadway in western Maple Grove, providing
both to the Interstate system from the western neighborhoods, to the
}
nixed use area in western Maple Grove at I-94 and to a large part of the
Y..� mz
(Bass Lake Roadl_{Expander� — CSAH 10 crosses the City of Maple
Trove from east to west near the southern border of the City, entering near its
irrterchange with I-494 and exiting to the City of Corcoran. A realignment of
CSAH 10 and CSAH 101 near the point where they intersect is proposed.
i uyi weaver Lake Road(Expander) — This route follows existing CSAH 109
between Jefferson Highway and Zachary Lane. Between Zachary Lane and
Norwood Lane, the roadway has been realigned to provide a more direct route.
'$uyond this point, the minor arterial designation follows the existing Weaver Lake
to Dunkirk Lane, interchanging with I-94 along the way.
►n ,v r',onnector west of1-94• Keliever East of I 941 — Existing CSAH 30
Vs from CSAH 101 to TH 169 and has an interchange with I-94. The existing
§hange at CSAH 30 is proposed to be reconstructed and a new CSAH 30
Ile ; constructed south of the interchange. Although ramps from CSAH 30 to
would not be provided, CSAH 30 will continue to provide access to both I-94
TH 169 and will provide a route for traffic moving across the City.
31
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
CBOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MN 55447
DATE: September 8, 2005
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director, Parks and Recreation 66
SUBJECT: Budget Study Session/Park Acreage Inquiry
At the Tuesday, September 6, study session, the question was asked how many acres of park land
and open space the City owns. Currently the City owns approximately 969 acres of active park
land and roughly 100 acres of what we designate open space. So the total is approximately 1,100
acres that the city owns.
The attached sheet breaks the acreage out by city park, community playfield, neighborhood
parks, mini parks and school parks. It also further breaks acreage down into active recreation
which are acres that we tend to mow and do high maintenance on and passive lands which are
generally left in their natural state. This and other more detailed information is enclosed in
Chapter 8 of the comprehensive plan, both books 1 and 2.
EB/np
CITY PARKS
• East Medicine Lake
• West Medicine Lake
• Parkers Lake
• Plymouth Creek
• Timber Shores
ACTIVE RECREATION: 139 acres
PASSIVE RECREATION: 246 acres
TOTAL AREA: 385 acres
8-A-1
COMMUNITY PLAYFIELDS
• Bass Lake
• Elm Creek
• La Compte Green
• Oakwood
• Parkers Lake
• Plymouth
• PJymouth Creek
• Ridgemount
• Zachary
ACTIVE RECREATION: 173.4 acres **
PASSIVE RECREATION: 9 acres
TOTAL AREA: 182.4 acres
* Refer to Plymouth Creek City Park, page 8-A-5
** Acreage of Plymouth Creek Playfield included in Plymouth Creek City Park
8-A-7•
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS AND MINI PARKS
• Circle
• Fazendin
• Four Seasons
• Gateway
• Gleanloch
• Green Oaks
• Heather Ponds
• Heritage
• Imperial Hill
• Jaycee's Hemlock
• Kilmer
• Lions
• Maplecreek
• Mission Hills
• Queensland
• Rolling Hills
• St. Mary's
• Schmidt Lake
• Shenandoah
• Shiloh
• Sunrise
• Swan Lake
• South Shore
• Three Ponds
• ,Turtle Lake
ACTIVE RECREATION: 116.3 acres
PASSIVE RECREATION: 239.8 acres
TOTAL AREA: 356.1 acres
8-A-17
SCHOOL PARKS
• Birchview Elementary
• Greenwood Elementary
• Kimberly Lane Elementary
O
• Pilgrim Lane Elementary
• Plymouth Creek Elementary
• Sunset Hills Elementary
ACTIVE RECREATION: 46 acres
PASSIVE RECREATION: 0 acres
TOTAL AREA: 46 acres
8-A-43 4
k-1 I Y "V ru Y WH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, P
c3,g;
DATE: September 8, 2005
7
TO: Laurie Ahrens, City Manager
FROM: Anne Hurlbu , Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Hennepin County Adult Correctional Facility (HCACF) Population Report
Hennepin County Community Corrections staff has submitted their monthly report on average
daily population for the month of August, 2005.
The average daily population reported for the Plymouth facility was 554, less than the
occupancy limit of 601 set by the Conditional Use Permit.
The chart below shows the average monthly population since we began receiving reports in
June of 1998.
HCACF Monthly Population Report
[]CUP Limit
■Average Count
700
600
500
Lj
400
m
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`m
300
a
200
100
0
00
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` CITY OF
September 9, 2005 PLYMOUT14
SUBJECT: SITE PLAN AMENDMENT, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AND
VARIANCE FOR WESTWOOD ENGINEERING (2005070)
Dear Property Owner:
Pursuant to the provisions of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance, this letter is to inform you
of a request by Westwood Engineering, under 2005070, for a site plan amendment for a
freestanding retail building, conditional use permit to allow multiple buildings on one lot,
and variance for building setbacks for Waterford Park Plaza Shopping Center located at
10200 6th Avenue North.
Hennepin County records indicate your property is within 500 feet of the site of this
proposal. You are hereby notified of, and cordially invited to attend a Public Hearing to
be held by the Plymouth Planning Commission at 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, September
21, 2005 at the Plymouth Creek Center located at 14800 -34th Avenue North. The
public will be invited to offer questions and comments concerning this application at that
time, or feel free to call the City Planning Department at (763) 509-5450 for more
information.
INFORMATION relating to this request may be examined at the Community
Development Information Counter, at Plymouth City Hall on Mondays and Wednesday
through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.,
except holidays. If you have any questions about the specifics of this proposal, please
contact the Community Development Department at (763) 509-5400.
Sincerely,
Barbara G. Senness, AICP
Planning Manager
2005070propnotice
PLYMOUTH Adding Quality to Life 7
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (763) 509-5000
6 __...___ _.. ---- _ . _ M/\AIUV ri nlvmnuih — � is
CITY OF
September 9, 2005 PUMOUTR
SUBJECT:
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR ASCENSION EVANGELICAL
LUTHERAN CHURCH (2005098)
Dear Property Owner:
Pursuant to the provisions of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance, this letter is to inform you
of a request by Ascension Evangelical Lutheran Church, under File 2005098 for a
conditional use permit to allow kindergarten classes for property located at 15870 46th
Avenue. North.
Hennepin County records indicate your property is within 500 feet of the site of this
proposal. You are hereby notified of, and cordially invited to attend a Public Hearing to
be held by the Plymouth Planning Commission at 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, September
21, 2005 at the Plymouth Creek Center located at 14800 -34th Avenue North. The
public will be invited to offer questions and comments concerning this application at that
time, or feel free to call the City Planning Department at (763) 509-5450 for more
information.
INFORMATION relating to this request may be examined at the Community.
Development Information Counter, at Plymouth City Hall on Mondays and Wednesday
through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.,
except holidays. If you have any questions about the specifics of this proposal, please
contact the Community Development Department at (763) 509-5400.
Sincerely,
Barbara G. Senness, AICP
Planning Manager
2005098propnotice
PLYMOUTH Adding Quality to Li e100
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (763) 509-5000
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CITY OF
September 9, 2005 PLYMOUTH -
SUBJECT: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT AND INTERIM USE
PERMIT FOR CARLSON'S PIANO WORLD (2005101)
Dear Property Owner:
Pursuant to the provisions of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance, this letter is to inform you
of a request by Carlson's Piano World, under File 2005101 for a conditional use permit
amendment to allow 25 percent accessory enclosed retail in the I-2 (General Industrial)
zoning district and an interim use permit to allow reduced parking for property located at
1381024 th Avenue North.
Hennepin County records indicate your property is within 500 feet of the site of this
proposal. You are hereby notified of, and cordially invited to attend a Public Hearing to
be held by the Plymouth Planning Commission at 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, September
21, 2005 at the Plymouth Creek Center located at 14800-34`h Avenue North. The
public will be invited to offer questions and comments concerning this application at that
time, or feel free to call the City Planning Department at (763) 509-5450 for more
information.
INFORMATION relating to this request may be examined at the Community
Development Information Counter, at Plymouth City Hall on Mondays and Wednesday
through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.,
except holidays. If you have any questions about the specifics of this proposal, please
contact the Community Development Department at (763) 509-5400.
Sincerely,
A* 5(A1 h
Barbara G. Senness, AICP
Planning Manager
2005101 propnotice
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3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (763) 509-5000
CITY OF
September 9, 2005 PLYMOUT4
SUBJECT: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR WCL ASSOCIATES, INC.
(2005102)
Dear Property Owner:
Pursuant to the provisions of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance, this letter is to inform you
of a request by WCL Associates, Inc., under File 2005102, for a conditional use permit to
allow over 50 percent office use and an interim use permit for reduced parking with
shuttle service for property located at 9600 54th Avenue North.
Hennepin County records indicate your property is within 500 feet of the site of this.
proposal. You are hereby notified of, and cordially invited to attend a Public Hearing to
be held by the Plymouth Planning Commission at 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, September
21, 2005 at the Plymouth Creek Center located at 14800 -34th Avenue North. The
public will be invited to offer questions and comments concerning this application at that
time, or feel free to call the City Planning Department at (763) 509-5450 for more
information.
INFORMATION relating to this request may be examined at the Community
Development Information Counter, at Plymouth City Hall on Mondays and Wednesday
through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.,
except holidays. If you have any questions about the specifics of this proposal, please
contact the Community Development Department at (763) 509-5400.
Sincerely,
�X%VA. a Q
Barbara G. Senness, AICP
Planning Manager
2005102propnotice
PLYMOUTH Adding Quality to Life
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (763) 509-5000
wAenm ri nhIMM ith Mn 1 10
Darrin Lahr
Community Relations Manager
Xcel Energy
8701 Monticello Lane North
Maple Grove, MN 55369-4556
Dear Darrin,
Thank you for your letter requesting feedback on compliance with franchise obligations.
We have no current concerns relating to the items addressed in the franchise agreement.
However, there is an issue that the Plymouth City Council would like to discuss with you
— reliability of service.
Several councilmembers have received concerns from residents about frequent outages in
certain areas of the City. I'd like to invite you to attend a future Plymouth City Council
meeting so that councilmembers can ask questions and to provide you with the
opportunity to explain any system enhancements that would impact the Plymouth area.
The following dates are available: Sept. 27, Oct. 11, and Oct. 25. The meetings begin at
7 p.m. at the Plymouth Creek Center, 14800 34th Avenue North. Please give me a call at
763-509-5051 to let me know if you would be available on one of these dates.
We appreciate your recent efforts to resolve problems with outages in the 21St and
Niagara Lane area. I know you are also working with our Public Works Director to
discuss outages affecting the Bass Lake area. Perhaps through this meeting we can
identify additional areas that need attention.
Sincerely,
Laurie Ahrens
City Manager
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PLYMOUTH Adding Quality to i fe
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD . PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (763) 509-5000
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Xcel EnergySM
August 8, 2005
Laura Ahrens
City Manager
3400 Pymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447-1448
Dear Laura
8701 Monticello Lane North
Maple Grove, Minnesota 55369-4556
41l6
'cel Energy is committed to meeting our customer expectations and fulfilling our commitments to
those we serve. Customer feedback is important to us, and can make us aware of issues we haven't
yet recognized. To that end, I am writing to solicit your feedback on our performance in fulfilling
our commitments in the franchise agreement between Xcel Energy and your city.
The fianchise agreement between Xcel Energy and your city helps identify and clarify the
responsibilities and roles of Xcel Energy as we construct, operate and maintain our energy
transmission and delivery systems. Specified obligations relating to Xcel Energy's activities include
tree trimming, right-of-way restoration, and relocation of company facilities for city improvement
projects. I trust that we are in compliance with these and other franchise obligations. If this is not
the case, please do not hesitate to contact me at the number listed below.
Xcel Energy appreciates the opportunity to serve our customers - your residents -- with reliable,
affordable energy now and into the future.
Sincerely, �\
Darrin La f
Community Relations Manager
Xcel Energy
763-493-1631
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