HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 03-21-2000w
Adopted Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 2000
A Regular Meeting of the Plymouth City Council was called to order by Mayor Tierney at 7:00
p.m. in the Council Chambers of the City Center, 3400 Plymouth Boulevard, on March 21, 2000.
COUNCIL PRESENT: Mayor Tierney, Councilmembers Brown, Bildsoe, Black, Harstad,
Johnson, and Slavik.
ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Johnson, Public Safety Director Gerdes, Community
Development Director Hurlburt, Finance Director Hahn, Public Works Director Moore, Parks
and Recreation Director Blank, City Attorney Knutson, and City Clerk Paulson.
Plymouth Forum
No one was present to address the Council.
Presentations and Public Information Announcements
4.1) "We Care About Kids Day Role Model Award"
Councilmember Brown reported that in February a "We Care About Kids Day" was conducted at
the Wayzata YMCA, and recognition was given to students and parents who were nominated as
role models for youth. The Council extended its congratulations to student Katy Ritten who
received a "We Care About Kids Day Role Model Award." He highlighted the many events and
activities that Katy participated in.
4.2) "Job Fair"
Public Works Director Moore announced this year's annual job fair, entitled "Commute West
Plymouth Job Fair" that is to be conducted on March 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the
Radisson Hotel and Conference Center. He reported approximately 35 area employers would be
present to meet with prospective employees.
Approval of Agenda
Councilmember Harstad requested to add a report on Maple Grove transit as item No. 9.5 under
General Business.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 2 of 16
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, and seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
approve the amended agenda. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Mayor Tierney asked if there were any additions, corrections, or deletions to be made to the
Consent Agenda.
Councilmember Bildsoe requested to remove item No. 6.31 from the Consent Agenda. This item
was placed under General Business as item No. 8.4.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, and seconded by Councilmember Harstad, to
approve the amended Consent Agenda which included the following items:
6.01: Approve proposed City Council Minutes (Special Joint City Council/Planning
Commission Meeting ofFebruary 12, 2000, Regular Council Meeting of February 29, 2000, and
Special Joint City Council/Charter Commission Meeting ofMarch 9, 2000).
6.02.1: Resolution Approving Disbursements as Required by Minnesota Statutes 471.87-471.89
Cy's Uniforms - Res2000-129).
6.02.2: Resolution Approving Disbursements for the Period ending March 10, 2000 (Res2000-
138).
6.03: Resolution Renewing Garbage Hauler Licenses (Res2000-139).
6.04: Resolution Approving Consumption and Display License for V.F.W. Hamel (Res2000-
140), and a Resolution Approving Consumption and Display License for West Medicine Lake
Community Club (Res2000-141).
6.05: Resolution Approving Conditional Use Permit for Kids' Care Connection at Messiah
United Methodist Church, 17805 County Road 6 (20007 — Res2000-142).
6.06: Resolution Approving a Variance to Allow a 10 -foot Setback from the Side Lot Line
where 15 feet is required to Construct a Screen Porch Addition on Property Located at 13120
35th Avenue North (20008 — Res2000-143).
6.07: Resolution Approving Conditional Use Permit for a Cupola at Providence Academy, to be
located North of Schmidt Lake Road at Minnesota Lane (20010 — Res2000-144).
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 3 of 16
6.08: Resolution Approving Lot Consolidation for Hoyt Properties, Inc. for Property Located at
the Northeast Quadrant of Cheshire Lane and Schmidt Lake Road (20019 — Res2000-145).
6.09: Approval of Findings of Fact relating to penalty imposed on SuperAmerica on February
29, 2000 for Liquor Compliance Check violation findings offact attached to minutes).
6.10: Resolution Finding No Objection to Lawful Gambling Exemption for Ducks Unlimited
Res2000-146).
6.11: Ordinance Amending the Text of Chapter 21 of the Plymouth City Code, the Plymouth
Zoning Ordinance (20026 — Ord2000-09).
6.12: Ordinance Amending Chapter 21 (Zoning Ordinance) of the City Code to Classify Certain
Land Located on Kilmer Lane North of 34th Avenue and South of 36th Avenue (20014 and 20026
Ord2000-10), and a Resolution Approving Findings of Fact for Rezoning of Property Located
on Kilmer Lane South of 36th Avenue and North of 34th Avenue (20014 and 20026 — Res2000-
147).
6.13: Resolution Approving 20 Playground Bleachers (Res2000-148).
6.14: Resolution Approving Budget Amendment for the Elm Creek Park Shelter Building
Res2000-149).
6.15: Resolution Relating to Joint and Cooperative Agreement with Municipal Legislative
Commission (Res2000-150).
6.16: Resolution Approving Site Plan Amendment and Variances for Satellite Industries for a
Parking Lot Expansion located at 2530 Xenium Lane (20013 — Res2000-151), and a Resolution
Approving Lot Consolidation for Satellite Industries for Property Located at the Southeast
Quadrant of Highway 55 and Xenium Lane (20013 — Res2000-152).
6.17: Resolution Approving Site Plan Amendment and Conditional Use Permit for Loucks and
Associates for a Wireless Communication Pole located at 4455 State Highway 169 (20015 —
Res2000-153).
6.18: Resolution Approving Interim Use Permit for Steve Jantzen and Janis Beavers for
Property Located at 1410 Yellowstone Lane (20016 — Res2000-154).
6.19: Resolution Reducing Required Financial Guarantee for Inverness Addition (94028 —
Res2000-155), and a Resolution Reducing Financial Guarantee for Walnut Grove Pond Addition
94100 — Res2000-156).
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 4 of 16
6.20: Resolution Declaring Adequacy of Petition and Ordering Preparation of Report for Street
Lighting at Forster Preserve Plat No. 4 (Res2000-157), and a Resolution Receiving Report and
Ordering Project for Street Lighting at Forster Preserve Plat No. 4 (Res2000-158).
6.21: Resolution Ordering Public Hearing on the Vacation of Part of a Drainage Easement for
Ponding Purposes within Lot 5, Block 1, Inverness Addition (Res2000-159).
6.22: Resolution Authorizing Preliminary Engineering Report for 11 ch Avenue Street
Improvements East of South Shore Drive (Res2000-160).
6.23: Resolution Adopting Assessments for Traffic Control Signal System and Turn Lane for
City Project No. 7023 for 35th Avenue/36th Avenue and Vicksburg Lane (Res2000-161).
6.24: Resolution Approving Plans and Specifications and Ordering Advertisement for Bids for
2000 Seal Coat Program (Res2000-162).
6.25: Resolution Receiving Preliminary Engineering Report and Calling for Hearing on
Improvements for 2000 Street Reconstruction Project (9901 — Res2000-163).
6.26: Resolution Approving 2000 City of Plymouth Engineering Guidelines (Res2000-164).
6.27: Resolution Ordering Public Hearing on the Vacation of the Part of the Drainage and
Utility Easements within Lots 2 and Lot 3, Block 1, Plymouth Technology Park (Res2000-165).
6.28: Approval of Purchase of One New Current Model Asphalt Distributor (Res2000-166).
6.29: Resolution Authorizing Approval of a Contract with Laidlaw Transit Services, Inc. for
Plymouth Metrolink and Dial -a -Ride Services (Res2000-167).
6.30: Resolution Awarding Contract for 1999 Street Reconstruction Project (9001— Res2000-
168).
6.31: This item was removed from the Consent Agenda and placed under General Business as
item No. 8.4.
6.32: Resolution Authorizing the Mayor and City Manager to Sign the Revised Joint Powers
Agreement with the Southwest Central Service Cooperative (Res2000-169).
6.33: Resolution Adopting Rental Rates for Plymouth Creek Center (Res2000-170).
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 5 of 16
6.34: Resolution Approving Wetland Mitigation and Replacement Plan for Plymouth Creek
Wetland Restoration Project -Interpretive Trail (Res2000-171).
Councilmember Bildsoe stated his intent to abstain from voting on item No. 6.02.1.
Councilmembers Bildsoe and Johnson registered no votes for item No. 6.24.
Motion carried to approve the amended Consent Agenda.
Public Hearings
7.1) Revenue Bond Financing by the City of Wayzata for a Project on behalf of Hammer
Residences, Inc.
Community Development Director Hurlburt requested adoption of the Resolution authorizing
approval of a housing program, joint power agreement, and issuance of revenue bonds by the
City of Wayzata on behalf of Hammer Residences, Inc. She explained Hammer Residences,
Inc., of Wayzata, is a charitable organization that operates residential facilities for the
developmentally disabled in a number of Hennepin County cities, including Plymouth. The City
of Wayzata has agreed to issue up to $2,500,000 in revenue bonds on behalf of Hammer
Residences, Inc. to finance updating and remodeling of existing homes, construction of two new
homes located in Minnetonka, and to refinance existing debt related to 10 of its existing
residential facilities located in the cities of Plymouth, Maple Grove, Minnetonka, St. Louis Park,
New Hope, and Wayzata. Three facilities located in Plymouth would receive up to $500,000
from this bond sale. There would no cost to the City of Plymouth for this bond issue.
Mayor Tierney opened the public hearing for testimony.
There being no one wishing to appear before the Council to give testimony, Mayor Tierney
declared the public hearing closed.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, and seconded by Councilmember Black, to adopt
a Resolution Giving Approval to a Proposed Housing Program and the Proposed Issuance
Therefor of a Revenue Bond at the Request of Hammer Residences, Inc. Pursuant to a Joint
Powers Agreement to be entered into in Connection Therewith (Res2000-172).
Councilmembers Johnson and Black conveyed their appreciation to Hammer Residences, Inc.
With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 6 of 16
Tim Nelson, Chief Executive Officer, from Hammer Residences, Inc., thanked the Council for
the City's support and services.
7.2) Ordinance Eliminating Obsolete Language in Section 12.13 of the City Charter
regarding Transition Issues
City Clerk Paulson reported on the proposed Charter amendment as it related to obsolete
language contained in the City Charter as identified by the Charter Commission.
Mayor Tierney opened the public hearing for testimony.
There being no one wishing to appear before the Council to give testimony, Mayor Tierney
declared the public hearing closed.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, and seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to adopt
an Ordinance Amending the Plymouth City Charter Concerning Obsolete Transitional Matters
Ord2000-11). With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
General Business
8.1) Consider Rezoning from FRD to RSF-3 and a Preliminary Plat for 17 Single Family
Lots on the 4.75 acre Parcel Located east of Fernbrook Lane and South of 47th Avenue
20003 — Alan Chazin Homes Inc)
Community Development Director Hurlburt illustrated the proposed site and stated the applicant
is requesting approval to rezone this site from FRD (Future Restricted Development) to RSF-3
Single Family Detached 3). In addition, the applicant is requesting approval of the preliminary
plat to allow the creation of 17 residential lots where 17 single-family homes would be
constructed. She stated the proposed development, with the recommended conditions, would
meet all requirements of the RSF Zoning District.
She stated at the Planning Commission meeting, there were residents who voiced concerns about
drainage, the density of the proposed development, the lack of screening between the homes in
Savannah, and the proposed single-family homes.
She stated regarding drainage, the applicant would provide a retention and treatment pond in the
southeast portion of the site. This pond would be designed to accommodate the storm water
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 7 of 16
runoff and to treat the storm water runoff prior to its discharge into the drainage system. The
applicant's plan would not affect drainage on the surrounding properties.
She stated in response to the concerns regarding the density of the proposed development, staff
noted that the Land Use Plan requires a minimum of three units per acre and a maximum of six
units per acre in the LA -2 (Living Area 2) classification. The proposed density of this
development, at 3.6 dwelling units per acre, would comply with the density range required by the
Comprehensive Plan.
Lastly, in regard to concerns about the need for screening between the existing and proposed
single-family homes, screening is not required between similar uses. Therefore, the developer is
not required to provide screening between the existing single-family homes and the proposed
single-family homes.
She illustrated to the Council a revised drawing illustrating the proposed tree planting within the
development. She stated the trees that were originally to be planted in front of the homes, would
now be planted in the rear of the yards to assist in a screening effort. These plantings are
required as part of the reforestation requirements of the developer.
Donald Peterson, 1920 Shenandoah Court, representing Alan Chazin Homes, stated they intend
to utilize white pine and spruce trees on the west side and north side of the development as part
of the reforestation requirement. He stated their goal is to provide quality homes on smaller lots.
They are very excited about this development, and they would provide quite a range of housing
opportunities for citizens.
Councilmember Harstad asked what the smallest square footage home would be. Mr. Peterson
responded approximately 1,400 square feet on the main floor with an additional 800' square feet
in the basement (rambler). He added the largest homes would be one story, and the development
would consist primarily of one-story lookouts and ramblers.
Councilmember Brown asked what market this development is targeted for. Mr. Peterson
responded they would be targeting starter families, senior citizens, and empty nesters.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, and seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to adopt
an Ordinance Amending Chapter 21 (Zoning Ordinance) of the City Code to Classify Certain
Land Located East of Fernbrook Lane and South of 47 Avenue (2003 — Ord2000-12),
Resolution Approving Findings of Fact for Rezoning of Property Located East of Fernbrook
Lane and South of 47 Avenue (20003 — Res2000-173), and a Resolution Approving a
Preliminary Plat for Alan Chazin Homes, Inc. for Hilltop of Plymouth Located East of Fernbrook
Lane and South of 47 Avenue (20003 — Res2000-174). With all members voting in favor, the
motion carried.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 8 of 16
8.2) Consider Planned Unit Development Sketch Plan for a 1,020 Unit Residential
Development with a Variety of Housing Types on a 125 -Acre Site Located West of I-494
and North of Schmidt Lake Road (20006 — Rottlund Homes)
Community Development Director Hurlburt illustrated this proposed development and stated this
sketch plan includes 1,020 housing units on a 125 -acre site. The proposal includes 170 detached
single-family homes, 490 townhome units, and four apartment buildings with a total of 360 units.
In addition to the housing, the applicant is proposing several open space parcels, and including a
two -acre park in the central portion of the development. The developer would also reserve an
area for a new City water tower in the northwest corner of the site. Permanent access to the site
would be from the proposed Cheshire Lane. Cheshire Lane would bridge the railroad tracks at
the south end of the site and run north/south through the development. She stated this proposed
development area is included in the urban expansion area which prohibits development until
June 1, 2000, but the developer is allowed to provide sketch plans.
She stated the sketch plan does not identify the location of the trails or sidewalks, but the
developer has indicated that they would be working with the City and Hennepin Parks to locate
the required City and regional trails within the development. The City would require an outlot or
easement for a trail along Cheshire Lane. Hennepin Parks has a regional trail that runs along I-
494 and is planned to cross the north property line of the development. In addition, the applicant
had indicated that sidewalks would also be provided for pedestrian access within the
development.
She indicated that currently there is no public road access to this property. Therefore, the
proposed Cheshire Lane extension would be important for this development. A public hearing
on the 2000-2004 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) is scheduled for the March 29 Planning
Commission meeting. The proposed 2000-2004 CIP provides for construction of a bridge over
the railroad tracks and completion of Cheshire Lane north of the railroad tracks in winter
2001/2002. In order to begin grading on the site prior to construction of Cheshire Lane, the
applicant is proposing to provide a construction access to this site from Yucca Lane on the north.
Staff is suggesting that the developer reconstruct Xenium Lane as a dust -free gravel road for
temporary construction access to address the heavy equipment traffic. The Xenium Lane right-
of-way is located along I-494 east of Yucca Lane and would provide separation between the
single-family traffic on Yucca Lane and this heavier construction traffic. The temporary
construction access would be removed after the construction is completed. She stated there has
been discussion with the developer on whether Xenium Lane should be a permanent road access.
She discussed with the Council the environmental review process which would be necessary for
this development. She stated there would be an environmental review prior to approval of the
plat, environmental review for the road improvement, and the sewer extension. In addition, the
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 9 of 16
City could not provide formal approval until after the Comprehensive Plan is adopted. Lastly,
the Council needs to approve the Planned Unit Development, Wetland Mitigation Plan, Final
Plat, and rezoning.
She stressed that there is no approval given by the Council this evening. The sketch plan that has
been presented is for review by the Council, and she encouraged the Council to convey their
comments and/or concerns to the developer this evening.
Councilmember Black stated eight acres would be needed for a neighborhood park. She asked if
the developer would be dedicating eight acres within this development or would there be a
payment -in -lieu. Community Development Director Hurlburt replied there would probably be a
combination of land dedication and payment -in -lieu. She stated the developer is trying to
provide a focal point of the development for a neighborhood park.
Richard Palmiter and Tim Whitten from Rottlund Homes, stated they would happy to answer any
questions.
Tim Whitten, Vice President of Architecture for Rottlund Homes, stated this development is very
unique, as they are able to provide a number of different housing types. He stated this
development would contain eight different housing types (starter homes, single-family homes for
young families, empty nesters, retirees, rental, etc.). The development would be utilizing a
traditional neighborhood -housing concept with this project. He stated they have focused this
project as a pedestrian friendly project. The higher density units would be located adjacent to the
highway, and sidewalks would also be included in this development.
Councilmember Harstad asked if there was any discussion on integration of transit (walk and
ride approach rather than park and ride). Mr. Whitten replied they are considering incorporating
a transit hub within the development.
Councilmember Harstad asked if they are actively expanding the focus of this project to the west
as well. Mr. Whitten replied if they would be approached, they would definitely consider the
possibility. It would be an extension of single-family. Mr. Palmiter added they would provide
access to the west property line.
Councilmember Brown complimented the developers and stated he likes the transition of
housing, mixed use, the pricing, use of green space, etc. He stated even though the access to this
development would be difficult to determine, he is confident that it would be accomplished.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 10 of 16
Councilmember Slavik asked if there has been any communication with the residents located on
the north side of this development. Mr. Whitten stated yes, and they do intend to conduct a
neighborhood meeting.
Councilmember Black stated she, too, likes this concept and she applauds them for making this
development pedestrian friendly. She asked the developers if they have considered incorporating
the open spaces around the edge of the development to the center of the site. Mr. Whitten stated
the location of these open spaces is due to the topography, wetland, and trees.
She asked if native plantings would be incorporated into the design of this project. Mr. Whitten
stated they would be reviewing this possibility.
Councilmember Black asked if they have considered grass filtration strip vs. curb and gutter. Mr.
Whitten stated they would consider this idea after further discussion with Public Works Director
Moore.
Community Development Hurlburt commented this is a very "urban" plan, and the densities
would be approximately eight to nine units per acre. The nature of this development would be
more urban in character than some of the more traditional urban developments. However,
utilization of curb and gutter for sewage treatment purposes is very important. In addition, with
the concept of sidewalks contained within the development, it may not be an option to utilize
natural vegetation. She stated the expectation of a "rural" feel with the density of units proposed
may not be realistic. Mr. Whitten added that it is not their intent for the entire development to be
fully landscaped and irrigated.
Councilmember Johnson conveyed her positive view on this development. She stated her
concern involves issues with traffic on this site. Cheshire Lane would need to be calmed, and the
movement of traffic to I-494 is very important and how that would be accomplished. She stated
she would not favor making Xenium Lane as a permanent access. Mr. Whitten stated they are
not promoting Xenium Lane as a permanent access, only temporary for construction purposes.
Councilmember Johnson commended the developer for targeting all types of life cycle housing
with this development.
Councilmember Bildsoe echoed many of the above comments, and he stated he is very
concerned about access to the development and the long-term impact. He hoped that there could
a resolution in determining access to the development. He requested the developer to converse
with the Begin Golf Course owners. Lastly, he suggested that the Osseo School District be
contacted, as the proposed development would impact the school district.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 11 of 16
Councilmember Bildsoe asked if there would be an increase or reduction in the housing units
projected for this project. Mr. Whitten responded there would be no intent to reduce the
projections. He stated the projections would only be changed if something unforeseen occurred
during the development stage of the project.
Councilmember Harstad asked what type of street lighting is planned. Mr. Whitten responded
they haven't studied the lighting issue yet.
Councilmember Harstad asked how would they minimize golf ball interference with the
development's close proximity to the Begin Golf Course. Mr. Whitten stated they would utilize
the standard setbacks; however, they are continuing to review this concern.
Councilmember Slavik echoed Councilmembers Johnson and Bildsoe's concerns on access to
the development.
Mayor Tierney noted that the developer would be responsible for maintaining the temporary
construction access on Xenium Lane according to City standards, and she asked what those
standards consist of. Community Development Director Hurlburt stated it would be a gravel
roadway until residents would begin to move in, then it would be a paved roadway. She stated
the developer would be in contact with Public Works as to what would be required.
Councilmember Black requested access to this proposed development be discussed with the
residents located to the north of the development. She stated discussion should also occur with
the Osseo School District.
Mr. Palmiter stated he recently had discussions with the Osseo School District, and they are still
reviewing their overall plans. However, nothing has been finalized.
Councilmember Black stated regarding the regional trail system, she would prefer that it would
be more of a greenway which would be an amenity to this development.
Councilmember Johnson requested the developer to consider all income levels for the apartment
buildings contained in this development.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, and seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
adopt a Resolution Providing Informal Comments on the Proposed Sketch Plan for a Residential
Development to be known as the Reserve for Rottlund Homes for Property Located North of the
Canadian Pacific Railroad and West of I-494 (20006 — Res2000-175) which included all the
Councilmembers' comments made this evening. With all members voting in favor, the motion
carried.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 12 of 16
The Council took a short recess and reconvened the meeting at 8:53 p.m.
8.3) Accept Unaudited Financial Statements for the Year Ended December 31, 1999 and
Authorize Fund Transfers
Finance Director Hahn reported on the unaudited financial statements for year ended December
31, 1999 and stated that the general fund revenue exceeded budget by $261,843 while the
expenditures were under budget by $712,416 producing a total surplus of $974,259. He
explained there were a number of factors that contributed to this surplus which included
additional permit revenue, decrease in snow plowing expenditure due to lack of snow, and a
number of vacant positions.
He requested the Council adopt Resolutions transferring $200,00 to the Park Replacement fund,
203,000 to the Capital Improvement fund, $26,622 to the Central Equipment fund, $150,000 to
the Opticon Semaphore Controller reserve, and $30,000 to the Photo Imaging reserve.
Mayor Tierney stated the surplus is a pleasant surprise. However, she is concerned on the
number of employee positions that haven't been filled.
City Manager Johnson stated staff is in process of filling those positions. Staff has had to utilize
different strategies in filling positions such as with the fire inspector position. Rather than hiring
a fire inspector, the City would be hiring another building inspector to be trained with the fire
codes.
Councilmember Harstad stressed that the message needs to be conveyed to the taxpayers that
even though there is a surplus of funds, the Council does not have the option of returning the tax
dollars to the taxpayers.
Councilmembers Bildsoe, Johnson, and Black thanked Finance Director Hahn for his
recommendation on the transfer of funds.
Councilmember Black asked what the cost was of the most recent fire station that was
constructed.
Finance Director Hahn stated Fire Station No. 3 cost was $1.5 million which was the station
alone with no equipment. Fire Station No. 1, which is half of the size of Fire Station No. 3, cost
850,000. Regarding the proposed Fire Station No. 4, it would cost approximately $4 million if
the City constructs it on its own or $2.5 million if a fire station is constructed jointly with Maple
Grove.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 13 of 16
City Manager Johnson stated the community improvement funds could be utilized for the
construction of the new fire station.
Councilmember Johnson stated she would like to engage in a discussion with the area legislators
why there is no mechanism for local governments to provide rebates to the taxpayers. Since that
may not be possible, she favors a mechanism whereby the City would inform citizens each year
that if there were any surpluses, where those funds would be allocated. She stressed the
importance of communicating to the citizens.
Finance Director Hahn stated there could be a policy that would establish the guidelines where
future surpluses would be used. He mentioned the City's Financial Management Policy which
states that 40% of the general fund balance must be maintained.
Councilmember Brown stated he would support Councilmember Johnson's comments if it would
be a policy guideline only, and the Council wouldn't be budgeting for surpluses.
Councilmember Johnson stressed it would only be a policy guideline.
Councilmember Black agreed that it is very difficult for local governments to compete with the
private sector for staffing issues. Therefore, there would probably continue to be surpluses in
that area. This issue, too, the Council needs to convey to the citizens.
Councilmember Bildsoe commented that in the future there could be a year where there would
not be surplus funds. Therefore, the City needs to continue to strengthen the reserve funds.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, and seconded by Councilmember Brown, to adopt
a Resolution Transferring Funds from the General Fund to the Park Replacement Fund
Res2000-176), Resolution Transferring Funds from General Fund to Capital Improvement Fund
Res2000-177), Resolution Transferring Funds from General Fund to Central Equipment Fund
Res2000-178), Resolution Transferring Funds from General Fund to Opticon Semaphore
Controller Reserve (Res2000-179), and a Resolution Transferring Funds from General Fund to
Photo Imaging Reserve (Res2000-180). With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
8.4) Award of Bids for Lawn Maintenance 2000-2001
Councilmember Bildsoe stated he has received numerous complaints over the years on the
appearance of the City lawns around City buildings, especially City Hall's lawn. He requested
the message be conveyed to the contractor that the City expects good quality and service.
Parks and Recreation Director Blank stated he would discuss the Council's concern with the
contractor. He also mentioned that once the irrigation system is installed on Plymouth
Boulevard, that should assist the effort in creating a higher standard.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 14 of 16
Motion was made by Councilmember Harstad, and seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
adopt a Resolution Approving Award of Bid for Lawn Maintenance for 2000-2001 (Res2000-
181). With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
Reports and Recommendations
9.1) Affirm City Council Goals and Priorities.
City Manager Johnson stated at the March 2 Council Study Session, the Council established the
following goals and priorities for 2000:
1. Comprehensive Plan implementation.
2. Additional Open Space Acquisition.
3. Traffic, Speeding, Crosswalk—Education and Enforcement.
4. Water Resources Plan implementation and Funding Plan.
5. Millennium Garden.
6. Housing Issues.
7. Targeted Redevelopment.
In addition, the Council established the following additional issues as priorities for 2000:
1. Town Meeting.
2. Liquor Compliance Procedures.
3. Comprehensive Citizen Education Program.
4. E -Government.
5. City Center Streetscape.
6. Plan for Fire Station No. 4.
He discussed the work plan that was included in the Council packets which staff prepared to
address the goals.
Councilmember Johnson stated regarding open space acquisition, she requested the Resolution
be amended to state, "explore options for open space acquisitions." She indicated that since
there is currently no plan in place, she didn't want the public to misunderstand the Council's
intention.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, and seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
adopt a Resolution Affirming 2000 City Council Goals and Priorities (Res2000-182) with the
suggested language amendment to open space acquisitions. With all members voting in favor,
the motion carried.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 15 of 16
9.2) Appointment to West Suburban Mediation Board and Plymouth Advisory
Committee on Transit (PACT)
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, and seconded by Councilmember Black, to adopt
a Resolution Appointing Ralph Durand to the Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit
Res2000-183). With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
Mayor Tierney stated three committee applicants have expressed an interest in serving as the
City's representative to the West Suburban Mediation Board.
There was a question raised as to when the board meets and whether the applicants could attend
those meetings.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, and seconded by Councilmember Slavik, to table
the appointment to the April 11 Council meeting in order that the applicants could be re-
contacted. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
9.3) Schedule Special Study Session and Topics
City Manager Johnson informed the Council that the donors for the stage at the Plymouth
Amphitheater would like to meet with the Council sometime during April 19-21.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, and seconded by Councilmember Brown, to
conduct this meeting on April 19 at 3:00 p.m. in the Ice Arena meeting room. After a brief
discussion, this motion was withdrawn.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, and seconded by Councilmember Brown, to
conduct the meeting on April 19 at 7:30 a.m. at a location to be determined. With all members
voting in favor, the motion carried.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, and seconded by Councilmember Black, to
schedule the following meeting dates and topics:
1. April 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the Plymouth Creek Center — Joint Meeting with Wayzata School
Board to discuss issues of joint interest.
2. May 2, immediately following Board of Review Meeting: Study Session to discuss City
Center streetscape, proposed redevelopment project at 2300 Berkshire, and quarterly check-in
with City Manager.
3. June 6 at 7:00 p.m.: Study Session to discuss E -Government options, Water Resources Plan
implementation, Citizen Education program, and options for open space acquisitions.
4. August 21 at 7:00 p.m.: Budget Study Session.
Adopted City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 21, 2000
Page 16 of 16
5. August 29 at 7:00 p.m.: Budget Study Session.
Councilmember Black suggested that the Council schedule a joint meeting with the Osseo
School District.
There being no further discussion and with all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
9.4) Receive Report on National League of Cities Conference
Mayor Tierney stated she and Councilmembers Bildsoe and Johnson attended the National
League of Cities Conference. She mentioned the booklet that was inserted into the Council's
packets on the conference.
Councilmembers Johnson and Bildsoe stated they each had information that they would provide
to various City departments.
9.5) Maple Grove Transit
Councilmember Harstad informed the Council that the City of Maple Grove recently received
funding for a transit hub. He suggested that the Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit
PACT) investigate whether there would be any mutual benefit to align the two transit providers.
The Council encouraged PACT to explore the possibilities but not prepare any definite plans at
this time due to the new members on PACT and the retirement of the City's Transit Coordinator.
Adjournment
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, and seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adjourn the meeting at 9:57 p.m. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
Calm, ' "