HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 09-04-1987CITY O�
PLYMOUTH
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
September 4, 1987
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS.....
1. LABOR DAY -- Monday, September 7. City offices closed.
2. BOARD OF ZONING -- Tuesday, September 8, 7:30 p.m. The Board of
Zoning AUJustments & Appeals will meet in the City Council
chambers. Agenda attached. (M-2)
3. PLANNING COMMISSION -- Wednesday, September 9. The Planning
Commission Forum will begin at 7:15 p.m., with the regular Planning
Commission meeting following at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council
Chambers. Agenda attached. (M-3)
4. PARK & RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION -- Thursday, September 10,
7:30 p.m. The Park and Recreation dvisory Commission will meet in
the City Council chambers. Agenda attached. (M-4)
5. COUNCIL FILINGS -- Filings by candidates will close on Tuesday,
September 8 at 4:30 p.m.
6. NEXT COUNCIL MEETING -- Monday, September 14, 7:30 p.m.
7. MEETING CALENDARS -- Meeting calendars for September and October are
attached. Revisions to the September calendar include the September
14 Joint Council/Planning Commission meeting, and the change of
meeting date of the September 23 Planning Commission meeting to
Tuesday, September 22. (M-7)
FOR YOUR INFORMATION....
1. HENNEPIN COUNTY COMMUNITY LIBRARY FOR PLYMOUTH - Earlier this year
the City Council directed that we proceed to: 1) arrange for a
meeting with members of the City Council and the Hennepin County
Library Board to share our concerns about the Plymouth Community
Library; and 2) arrange to testify before the appropriate Hennepin
County Board of Commissioners Committee about the need for a
community library in Plymouth.
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
September 4, 1987
Page two
As indicated at the September 1 Budget Study Session, the joint
meeting with the Hennepin County Library Board will be deferred
until April 1988. We will provide testimony before the Ways and
Means Committee when they consider the recreation and education
portion of their budget during the morning of September 21, 1987.
We have also confirmed an appearance before the Capital Budgeting
Task Force on September 22.
2. COUNCIL FOLLOW-UPS:
a. 5730 West Medicine Lake Drive -- Attached is a memorandum from
Joe Ryan which provides an chronology of events relating to the
demolition and clean up process for this property. (I -2a)
b. Mr. Harry Bauer, 11625 - 28th Avenue No. -- Mr. Bauer appeared
at the August 24 Forum to request the clean up of concrete
pieces in the storm sewer area east of his property. City staff
inspected the site and the area Mr. Bauer referred to is
actually the extension of 28th Avenue, easterly beyond Evergreen
Lane to the lake. The attached letter from Frank Boyles advises
that clean up of this area is underway by the City. (I -2b)
c. Mark McCullough - Berm Restoration -- The attached memorandum
from Eric Blank addresses theCouncil's directive relative to
whether a berm restoration is part of the City's agreement with
Mark McCullough. A letter to Mr. McCullough is also attached.
(I -2c)
d. Bob Zitur's Memo of 8/21: (copy attached)
The City's Weed Inspector will be inspecting both the trail
outlot at 4780 Ximines Lane and the Stobbe development parcel
for any problems with excess weeds in these areas. If the weeds
exceed City standards, they will be removed immediately.
Also attached are the results of the Police Department's
traffic enforcement details conducted last week at 48th Avenue
and Valley Forge Lane. (I -2d)
3. DELINQUENT SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS - FRENCH REGIONAL PARK -- In
accordance with ouncil direction from the August 24 meeting,
attached are the file materials relating to the Regional Park
District's special assessment obligations. (I-3)
4. MINUTES -- Planning Commission, August 26, 1987. (I-4)
5. CONFERENCE/SEMINAR REPORT -- Dick Carlquist and Stan Scofield
recently attended a seminar on the Community Right to Know Act as it
pertains to the Superfund Amendment Reauthorization Act. A copy of
the seminar report is attached. (I-5)
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
September 4, 1987
Page three
6. GEESE CONTROL - IS "BIOACOUSTICS" THE ANSWER -- The attached
article entitled, "Russia is for theBirds" was taken from the March
1987 issue of "Discover" magazine. Some years ago, crows were
introduced in Moscow in an effort to control the city's pigeon
population. The crows were a success, but too much so. To get rid
of the crows, the Soviets employed the use of bioacoustics (the
study of wildlife sounds). (I-6)
7. METRO COUNCIL - 20TH ANNIVERSARY -- The Metropolitan Council will be
celebrating its 20th anniversary with a party at the The Atrium -
International Market Square on Wednesday, September 30, beginning at
5:00 p.m. A copy of the invitation is attached. Councilmembers
who plan to attend, should let Laurie know by Monday, September 21.
(I-7)
8. DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEE -- The Metro Council and Minnesota Chapter of
the American Planning -Association has scheduled a seminar to discuss
the issue of development impact fees. The meeting will be held at
the Canterbury Inn in Shakopee from 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m A copy of
the notice is attached. Please contact Laurie if you wish to be
registered. (I-8)
9. REAL ESTATE SIGNS -- Because the Council has expressed concern over
illegally posted "For Sale" and "Open House" signs, the attached
letter was sent to area realtors. It outlines Plymouth's sign
ordinance in regard to these signs. Realtors listed in the TwinWest
Directory, the Plymouth Yellow Pages and in the Plymouth section of
the Minneapolis Yellow Pages received the letter. (I-9)
10. PLYMOUTH EMPLOYEES -- I have received the following_ "BZ"
correspondence on ity employees:
a. Letter from Gerald Hochstaetter, 12013 - 23rd Avenue No.,
concerning the Police Department's response to a medical
emergency. (I -10a)
b. Letter from Terry McDonald, Controller, Quality Inn, on the
Public Safety Department's response to calls for assistance.
(I -10b)
c. Memo from Councilmember
by a Plymouth resident
staff. (I -10c)
11. CORRESPONDENCE:
Zitur advising of comments made to him
on the assistance he received from City
a. Letter from Representative Craig Shaver providing a summary- of
the 1987 legislative session. (I -11a)
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
September 4, 1987
Page four
b. Memorandum from Councilmember Zitur to City Manager concerning
increased traffic in the area 48th and Oakview caused by the
closure of County Road 9. (I -11b)
c. Letter from Michael Mulligan, 13005 - 34th Avenue No., to Mayor
Schneider, concerning the extension of Xenium Lane to Vinewood
Lane. (I -11c)
12. SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT -- Stapled to this page, is a weekend pass for
the USSSA Class D Men's Divisional tournament which the City will
host this weekend. The tournament will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Friday
with opening ceremonies at Zachary Park. Games will be played at
Zachary Park and Plymouth Creek Park.
James G. Willis
City Manager
JGW:Jm
attach
C
BOARD OF ZONING ADUUS-h-1ENTS AND APPEALS
MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, September 8, 1987
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
4. OTHER BUSINESS
6:30 P.M.
August 11, 1987
Discussion of different variance situations.
5. NEW BUSINESS
�A -- (:�L
WHERE: Plymouth City Center
Council Chambers
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN
A. Myron Christopherson. Variance from the minimum front yard setback for
property located at 1245 Peony Lane (9-01-87).
B. Jerry Behme. Variance from the minimum front yard setback for property located
at 5700 Vagabond Lane North (9-02-87).
C. Dennis LaFrance. Variance from the Sign Ordinance for the Prudential Insurance
Company of America for property located at 13001 County Road 10 (9-03-87).
6. OLD BUSINESS
7. ADJOURNMENT
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 1987
NA -3
WHERE: Plymouth City Center
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 554 ' 7
CONSENT AGENDA
All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine by the Planning
Commission and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of
these items unless a Commissioner, citizen or petitioner so requests, in which event
the item will be removed from the consent agenda and considered in normal sequence on
the agenda.
1. STUDY SESSION (Dinner)
2. OPEN FORUM
3. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
4.* APPROVAL OF MINUTES
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS
5:30 P.M.
7:15 P.M.
7:30 P.M.
Planning Commission Minutes, August 26, 1987
A. Rudolph Marti, J & R Pizza, Inc. Conditional Use Permit to operate a pizza
bakery and delivery service in the Cottonwood Plaza at the southeast corner of
County Road 9 and Xenium Lane. (87089)
B. Oscar Naustdal. Conditional Use Permit and Site Plan for the construction of
a 74 unit apartment complex on property southeast of Trenton Lane and 45th
Avenue North. (87083)
C. Alexander Ritter, Zachary Development Corporation. Land Use Guide Plan
Amendment and Revised Planned Unit Development Preliminary Plan/Plat and
Conditional Use Permit for Woodlands 3rd Addition north of Trenton Lane and
45th Avenue North. (87045)
D. Alexander Ritter, Zachary Development Corporation. Land Use Guide Plan
Amendment, PUD Concept Plan, Preliminary Plan/Plat, Rezoning and Conditional
Use Permit for Pineview Addition south of County Road 47, east and west of
Pineview Lane. (87042)
E. Harstad Companies. Revised Planned Unit Development Preliminary Plan/Plat for
Kingsview Heights 3rd Addition to develop a lot for one single family detached
home on Outlot J of Kingsview Heights 2nd Addition on the northwest corner of
44th Avenue North and Juneau Lane. (87091)
6. NEW BUSINESS
A. William Deziel. Renewal of Conditional Use Permit for Hollydale Golf Course
at 4710 Holly Lane. (86132)
7. OTHER BUSINESS
A. Future Meeting Dates
8. ADJOURNMENT 10:30 P.M.
Plymouth Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
Regular Meeting of September 10, 1987, 7:30 p.m.
• Council Chambers
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Minutes
3. Visitor Presentations
a. Athletic Associations
b. Staff
c. Others
4. Report on Past Council Action
5. Unfinished Business
a. Parkers Lake Pavillion - Final Plan Approval (Del Erickson)
b. Neighborhood Parks Update - Amhurst, Rolling Hills, Co. Rd. 61
C. 1987 Trail Projects Update
d. Lions Park Play Equipment
6. New Business
a. New Plats
b. Review Trail and Sidewalk Standards (Referred from City Council)
C. Park Usage Policies - General Discussion
d. Parkers Lake - Peace Garden Item Plan Review
e.
7. Commission Presentation
8. Staff Communication
9. Adjournment
Next Meeting - October 8
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CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: August 28, 1987
TO: Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manager
FROM: Joe Ryan, Building Official C,
SUBJECT 5730 WEST MEDICINE LAKE DIRVE
Referenced below is the chronology of events which have occured concerning the
demolition process relating to this property.
On March 5, 1987 our office performed a site inspection and took photographs of the
property. A Community Service Officer and a representative of the Animal Humane
Society were also present. Based on the findings of our investigation we concluded
that the single family dwelling met the statutory definition of a hazardous
structure, and therefore a demoliton order/building inspector's report was prepared.
Soon after I was advised that this property was in the process of being sold to
Graham Development Company, and that final closing would occur in the near future.
In early June I contacted Larry Vossen of Graham Development Company, who informed me
that final closing of the property would take place July 1, 1987.
On June 23, 1987 I wrote Mr. Vossen, in accordance with City Council policy, advising
him the City's concern, that the building be either razed or repaired within 30 days.
A copy of this letter was sent to the renter of the property, Ms. Elaine Barthel. See
attached.
On July 7, 1987 our office received a copy of a letter dated July 1, 1987 from
Westview 494 to Mr. Ralph Jungroth, informing him of the sale of the property, and
that his lease would terminate on July 31, 1987. See attached.
On August 10, 1987 we received a copy of a letter dated August 7, 1987 from Graham
Development Company to Lyle Robinson, providing authorization to burn all structures
located on the property, as part of a training program for the fire department. See
attached.
On August 13, 1987, we received a copy of a letter dated August 12, 1987 from Graham
Development Company to Mr. Jungroth informing him of the change in ownership, and
that arrangements had been made with the City to raze the home the first week in
September. See attached copy.
Last week I received a call from Ms. Barthel who had spoken with Lyle Robinson at the
property, concerning the City's intent to burn all structures on the site. Ms.
Barthel stated that she had just received notice from Mr. Jungroth to vacate the
premises, which was the first correspondence she received since my letter of June 23,
1987. Ms. Barthel requested an extension of time be granted for her to move her farm
animals and personal belongings from the property.
ac)
Page two
Memo to Frank Boyles
August 28, 1987
I indicated to Ms. Barthel that she should contact Mr. Vossen. I explained that from
the City standpoint, we were in a position to follow through with the removal of the
structures.
Later I spoke with Lyle Robinson and informed him that I would contact Graham
Development Company concerning Ms. Barthel's phone call. I told Lyle that it did not
appear feasible that the structures would be razed according to schedule; especially
if animals or personal property were still on the site. I indicated to Lyle that I
would keep him informed.
On August 25, 1987 I visited the site with Tom Saba. A representative from the Animal
Humane Society had left the property after inspecting the health and condition of the
animals. During our visit we spoke with the daughter of Ms. Barthel, who indicated
they were in the process of moving the animals, and were looking for a place of
residence.
During our visit we also spoke with Dan Jungroth, who is living in a single story
trailer or portable structure, along the south end of the property. Again Tom and I
informed Mr. Jungroth that the new owner was in a position to have all structures
removed, and to have the property cleaned up during the first week in September. Mr.
Jungroth indicated he was in the process of having his trailers removed, and would
have all materials removed from the property by September 4, 1987.
Later that day I contacted Larry Vossen and informed him of the findings of our
visit. I stressed that the home was still occupied and that it is unfit for human
habitation. I asked him to contact his attorney to inquire about obtaining an order
to terminate the occupancy if voluntary compliance was not being sought. Mr. Vossen
told me that Ms. Barthel would be contacting him on Friday, August 28, 1987 to
identify a specific date when her animals and personal property would be removed. He
indicated that, if need be, his firm would provide the trailers necessary to remove
the animals from the site. It was also his intent to have the electrical service shut
off by Wednesday, September 3, 1987.
Mr. Vossen stated he would contact me no later than Monday, August 31, 1987 to relate
his conversation with Ms. Barthel, and to identify a specific plan of action
concerning this property.
I will keep you informed as the the status of this matter. Please see me if you have
any questions.
August 28, 1987
CITY OF
PUMOUTR
Mr. Harry Bauer
11625 28th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Mr. Bauer:
At the August 24 Plymouth Forum, you reported to the Mayor that concrete
pieces and fill were being dumped into a storm sewer area lying to the
immediate east of your house. On August 26, 1987, Sherm Goldberg, City
Engineer, met with you at the site to discuss your concerns. The area you
referred to is actually the extension of 28th Avenue, easterly beyond
Evergreen lane to the lake. This small area is an unimproved lake access.
While at the site, Sherm Goldberg noted one. or two pieces of concrete, but
no other fill. By copy of this letter, I am asking Park Maintenance
Superintendent, Mark Peterson, to arrange to have the one or two pieces of
concrete removed from this site. Thank you for bringing this matter to our
attention.
Yours ver tru ,
Frank Boyles
Assistant City Manager
FB:kec
cc: Mark Peterson
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD. PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
87 - 46
DATE: 8/19/87
V REFERRED T0: Sherm
' S/F: 8/25/87
CITY OF PLYMOL
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: August 19, 1987
TO.- Sherm Goldberg, City Engineer
FROM: Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manager
SUBJECT HARRY BAUER - 11625 - 28TH AVENUE NORTH
At the Plymouth forum, Harry Bauer reported to the Mayor that concrete
pieces and fill are being dumped into a storm sewer area, lying to the
Immediate east of his house. He has asked that the City clean the
storm sewer of the current debris and perhaps initiate an annual
maintenance program to assure its continued utility. Would you
investigate this complaint and provide me with your written findings
in order that I can respond back, both to Mr. Bauer and to the Mayor
and Council. Harry's phone number is 559-9664.
Thanks, Sherm.
FB:kec
cc: S.F. 8/25/87
Frank: the area Mr. Bauer is talking about is the 16'
easement from 28th Ave, to the Lake. The concrete
he refers to are 1-2 pieces that I believe have been
there for quite some time. Someone has cut the weeds
and you can drive a car almost down to the lake.
Sherm
8/26/87
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: August 28, 1987
TO: Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manager 6
FROM: Eric Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation ��" b- n r
SUBJECT: CITY COUNCIL DIRECTIVE - MEETING OF AUGUST 17, 1987
On August 17, the City Council requested information regarding an agreement
with Mark McCullough about the berm behind his home. Simply put, there's
absolutely no written agreement between the City of Plymouth and Mr. McCullough
regarding the berm behind his house. At one time the City Manager and I met
with Mr. McCullough on the site to review the proposed construction.
Mr. Willis offered an agreement to Mr. McCullough with certain conditions
on both the City's part and his part. Mr. McCullough did not wish to enter
into that agreement. Therefore, it was expressed to Mr. McCullough that
we would do the very best job we possibly could to cut the trail into the
berm with the least disruption possible. Mr. McCullough made suggestions
for how this should be accomplished, some of which were incorporated into
the actual design. At the time the City Council approved the project,
they also expressed a desire that we make our best good faith effort to
construct the berm so as to not negatively affect Mr. McCullough's
property. I believe that we have done that.
/np
ITV ,3�
PLYNOUTR
August 26, 1987
Mark McCullough
1900 First Bank Place West
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Dear Mr. McCullough:
This is just a short note to confirm our telephone conversation on Monday,
August 17. As per our conversation, it is cur intent to restore as much of
the natural be ening at the top of the crest )f the hill as is practical.
This needs to be done in such a manner so as the trail is not a hazard due
to poor sight lines or would cause too steep a bank, which becomes
unmaintainable. I would anticipate that this work would be completed within
two weeks approximately.
As you have correctly observed, at most of our park locations we do sign
appropriately for non -motorized vehicles. I've instructed our park maintenance
staff to install non -motorized vehicle signs at all three entrances to this
park site.
Thank you for your time and interest in this matter. If I can be of any
further assistance, please give me a call.
Sincerely,
Eric J. Blank, Director
Parks and Recreation
/np
CC: City Manager
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_- a
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: August 21, 1987
TO: Frank Boyles, Acting City Manager
FROM: Bob Zitur, Councilmember
SUBJECT
1. In listening to citizens' concerns about the corner of 47th Place,
48th Ave., and Valley Forge Lane (this is what the post reads); three
neighbors living on the corner complained about speeding and people not
stopping for the two stop signs that are in place. Two requested a four
way stop. I toTd—them to write a letter to the Manager, Mayor, and
Council about the problem. I don't believe we should wait for any
letters after listening to the complaints. That corner should be put
under surveillance now with the speeding and the slipping through the
stop signs as I witnessed. One gentleman claimed that he has reported
this at different times and was told to get the license numbers, etc.,
etc.
2. Ximines Lane and 47th Place - 4780 Ximines Lane. Next door to this
house is a trail. Citizens expressed concern about the way the trail
was finished. There are high weeds on both sides of the trail. The
citizens said that some grass was put in next to the trail at the
opening to the cul-de-sac but it didn't take. There are also high, high
weeds in the yard at 4780. I also told them, as Jim recently stated,
that they should call the weed inspector. I feel that this needs
checking before they call or write a letter. I feel this needs prompt
attention with the high pollen count.
3. Another woman in the same cul-de-sac was concerned about the weeds
on the Stobbe property. I told her to call or write a letter to the
weed inspector.
Lastly. While I was out there, our CSO wagon went by with Steve Barg.
It was good to see the wagon. Lately I saw Jane Laurence going through
a field after something on C.R. 9. From all indications, these two
/individuals are dedicated in their job; my opinion from past experience
in dealing with them.
FFIC 8% 17
10/85
_ AR SPEED EVALUATION L06 Plymouth Police Department
Location
�i8l��c.� f -o c Date
�Aa
Time /Si�v
Time Out of Service X930
Officer Assigned SPL Speed Limit 3c�
Tags IssuedVerbal warnings_
i
Weather/Road Conditions
CIRCLE DIRECTION:
OCL-=
ORTH / . EAST Bound Traffic
SCUT
WEST Bound Traffic
CAM=9
-TRUCK/BUS
CAR/MISC.
---TRUCK/BUS
PrEn-M
s-
o or less
33
9
0125
-7
J/35
16/40
t1/45
X6/50
;1 55
56/60
51/65
6 6/ 70
I
I �
71/75
�NSoLivAi n�
TRAFFIC
STOP SIGN EVALUATION LOG
Plymouth Police Department
rr //
VA4-
/ GAJ a!J
Date: �-aG
!H�2
' F7
Location:
CPAQ
Time 2w=: / $ D O
Time Out of Service:
officer Assigned: =7
Zags Issued: of
Verbal
Warnings:
Weather/Road Conditions: e6c".110-�
I. Acceptable Stops
II. Poor Stop W/Warning
III. Fail
to Stop W/Tag
I
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/v1%
1 /
-.3
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: August 28, 1987
TO: dames G. Willis, City Manager
FROM: Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manage
SUBJECT SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR FRENCH REGIONAL PARK
At their August 24 meeting, the City Council discussed the delinquent
special assessment for French Regional Park at some length. Following
their discussion, the Council directed that the staff report to the
Council regarding correspondence on the delinquent assessments and
efforts the City has taken to collect them. In looking through my
materials, I note that you did provide me with a packet on this
subject which was to have been distributed to the City Council. I am
attaching those materials to this memorandum and recommend that these
documents be contained in your upcoming information memorandum in
response to the Council's direction.
FB:kec
Attachment
cc: Mayor and City Council
HENNEPIN
PARKS
Suburban Honnopin
Regional Park District
12615 County Rood 9
P.O. Boa 41320
Plymouth, MN 55")
Telephone(612)559-9000
Board of Commission*rs
David Latvaoho
Chir
Golden Wiley
Shirley A. Bonino
Vice Choir
Maple Ploin
Judith S. Anderson
Bloomington
William H. Boynton
St. Louis Pork
Nicholas Eoloff
Robbinsdole
George B. Hickey
Golden Wiley
Neil Weber
Mound
Vern J. Hartenburg
Superintendent b
Secretory to the
Soord
Mr. James Willis
City Manager
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
Re: Special Assessments
Dear Jim:
-mac.
DEC 1986 i
Xr�pptYM��i�
The Park District's Capital Improvement Program as submitted to the
Metropolitan Council includes an amount of $508,000 to cover special
assessment obligations within the cities of Plymouth and Maple Grove.
The line item has been included in the Metropolitan Council's Capital
Improvement Program for Regional Parks and Open Space that will be
presented to the Legislature in 1987 for funding.
Attached is a summary of the Park District's Special Assessment
Obligations within the City of Plymouth. The summary anticipates fi
payment of all outstanding specials in December of 1987. Obviously,
the actual payment of specials will depend on whether the Legislature
approves the Capital Improvement Program at the funding level
requested and the subsequent scheduling of bond sales.
Jim, at this time, I have two requests of the City of Plymouth.
First, would you please have the appropriate person within the City
verify our projected special assessment obligations and total amount
needed to satisfy all obligations as of December 1987, assuming no
further payments are made between now and that time? Should they find
any significant discrepancies between your records and our
calculations, please have them contact Del Miller at 559-6754.
Second, the Park District requests City Council support for the
special assessment line item within the Metropolitan Council's Parks
and Open Space Capital Improvement Program.
Thank you for consideration of these requests. If you have any
questions, please give me a call at 559-6752.
GAM: af
Enc.
Sinceta\ely,
GregoryA. Director
Department nagement
Services
SUBUP.BAN HENNEPIN REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
STATUS OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT
OBLIGATIONS, CITY OF PLYMOUTH
Park
PID#
1986P2yments
Amount Remaining b
Yearsc
Pro'ect
Eagle Lake
02-118-22-12-0027
$ 1,560.72
0
Regional
02-118-22-11-0001
17,846.84
0
0
0
S & w
Park
01-118-22-23-0001
18,319.75
0
S E w
01-118-22-22-0003
5,142.68
0
0
S b w
01-118-22-22-0002
14,682.18
0
0
S & w
02-118-22-1'4-0002
18,381.34
0
0
S E w
0
S E w
Eagle Lake Subtotal
$ 75,933.51
0.00
French
15-118-22-41-0003
$ 35,363,52
$ 31,503.48
4, t
Regional
14-118-22-33-0001
35,091.86
28,982.33
l
S E w
Park
14-118-22-32-0005
35,091.86
28,982.33
1
s E w
23-118-22-24-0005
244.37
1,607.50
15
23-118-22-24-0004
199.95
1,315.20
15
Streets
23-118-22-21-0043
192.70
1'267'54
15.
Streets
14-118-22-31-0003
8
415-85 5
550.74
4, D
Streets
23-118-22-12-0002
5,205.06
13,130.58
5,4,o
S s w
Sts. Sb1,
French Subtotal
$111,805.17
$107,339.70
Grand Total
$187,738.68
$107,339.70
1986 Current Principal
and Interest
$187,800
1987 Current Principal
and Interest
99,444
1986 Penalty (14%)
26,292
1986 Interest (from 1-2-87 at 10%)
21,409
1987 Penalty (10$,
1988
assumes 12/87 payment)
9,944
and beyond outstanding
balance
11,000
Total needed - December 1987 payment: $355,889
aPrincipal and interest, assumes on time payment
bPrincipal only
cYears remaining, multiple years indicates multiple assessments
11-26-86
December 10, 1986
{
CITY OF
PUMOUTR
Mr. Gregory A. Mack, Director
Department of Management Services
Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District
12615 County Road 9
P.O. Box 41320
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Mr. Mack:
dim Willis has asked me to respond to your letter of December 2, 1986. Your
letter asks that we clarify the projected special assessment obligations of
the park district as of, December 1987 assuming no further payments are made
between now and then. I referred t s to Tom Kelly, Accounting Technician
In our Finance Department. Tom prepares our special assessment searches and
associated records. I am attaching your document entitled "Status of
Special Assessment Obligations, City of Plymouth". I have penciled in the
revisions which Tom has documented from his records. If you have any
questions about the revisions, please feel free to contact Tom at 559-2800
extension 280.
Yours very trul ,
1-
I i
6w` � 1 � _,
Frank Boyles
Assistant City Manager'
FB:dma
attach.
4
2 I
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559.2800
SUBURBAN HENNEPIN REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT
Eagle Lake Subtotal
STATUS
OF SPCCIAL ASSESSMENT
Interest
5-1-8}808- I It'z'SQ
French 15-118-22-41-0003
$ 3 5, 363. 52
39,QL3.s,L$ 31,503.48
4, 1
OBLIGATIONS, CITY OF PLYMOUTH
Regional 14-118-22-33-0001
35,091.86
28,982.33
1
-2 zt.,3 t-3
Park
PID#
1986 Payments Amount
Remainingb
Yearsc
Project
Eagle Lake
02-118-22-12-0027
$ 1,560.72
0
0
S
1,315.20
15
Regional
02-118-22-11-0001
17,846.84
0
0
S
&
b
w
w
Park
01-118-22-23-0001
18,319.75
0
0
S
w
French Subtotal
01-118-22-22-0003
5,142.68
0
0
S
w
01-118-22-22-0002
14,682.18
0
0
S
02-118-22-1.4-0002
18,381.34
0
0
b
w
S
b
w
Eagle Lake Subtotal
$ 75,933.51
0.00
Interest
5-1-8}808- I It'z'SQ
French 15-118-22-41-0003
$ 3 5, 363. 52
39,QL3.s,L$ 31,503.48
4, 1
S w
Regional 14-118-22-33-0001
35,091.86
28,982.33
1
-2 zt.,3 t-3
Park 14-118-22-32-0005
35,091.86
28,982.33
1
S w
S
23-118-22-24-0005
244.37
1,607.50
15
& w
Streets
23-118-22-24-0004
23-118-22-21-0043
199.95
1,315.20
15
Streets
14-118-22-31-0003
192.70
415.85
1,267.54
550.74
15
4, o
Streets
23-118-22-12-0002
5,205.06
13,130.58
5,4,0
S b w
Sts. S&%
1/1,305.17
French Subtotal
$107,339.70
Grand Total
$107,339.70
1986
Current
Principal and
Interest
5-1-8}808- I It'z'SQ
1987
Current
Principal and
Interest
ol,4 $o
1986
Penalty
(14%)
-2 zt.,3 t-3
1986
Interest
(from 1-2-87
at 10%)
.21-9 z/,vS5
1987
Penalty
(10%, assumes
12/87 payment)
- /o,it/i
1988
and beyond
outstanding
balance
Total needed needed
- December
1987 payment:
10 -
3 (o3'7 $ D
aPrincipal and interest, assumes on time payment
bPrincipal only
C
Years remaining, multiple years indicates multiple assessments
11-26-86
June 5, 1987
_ PAW
=� f
CITYOF
PLYMOUTH+
Mr. Robert Nethercut, Manager
Park and Natural Resources Division
Metropolitan Council
300 Metro Square Building
St. Paul, MN 55101
RE: EAGLE LAKE AND FRENCH REGIONAL PARKS SPECIAL ASSESSMENT OBLIGATIONS
Dear Bob:
I have previously discussed with you the concern which we have regardinq
unpaid special assessment obligations at the Eagle Lake and French Regional
Parks. The special assessment obligations were levied prior to the time the
parks were acquired by the Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District and
were to have been paid as part of those acquisition protects. To date, all
the special assessments have not been paid. According to the records in my
Finance Department, current unpaid amounts total nearly $350,000. This
amount represents special assessments which have become delinquent and/or
are payable through this December. In addition, there are assessments
payable in 1988 and beyond in the amount of just over $16,000.
The amount delinquent is quite substantial and presents a " drao' on our
Special Assessment Fund. The City has sold bonds over the years to finance
the projects which generated these special assessments. We have been
meeting bond debt obligations, however, the magnitude of the delinquencies
now creates problems for us as we represent our City's financial condition
to prospective investors, as well as bond ratinq agencies. The delinquent
special assessments represented by these two Regional Parks have the dubious
distinction of being largest we are carrying on our books.
In discussing this matter with representatives of the Park District, I am
continually referred to you as the ultimate source of funding to pay these
special assessments. I recognize that the Council recently requested
$25,000,000 in bonding authority from the State Legislature and that that
amount was reduced to $9,500,000. I also understand that the ability of the
Council to exercise it's own discretion on the use of use interest earnings
on Park Grant Funds has been restricted by the Legislature. These two
actions obviously will constrain your ability to satisfy the competing
demands on these funds.
We believe that the Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District and the
Metropolitan Council have a prior commitment and obligation to pay these
Special assessments. That commitment and obligation has not yet been met.
By neglecting this obligation, an unreasonable burden has been placed upon
Plymouth. We believe the Council should now meet it's obligation with
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
Page 2 of 2
June S, 1987
Mr. Robert Nethercut
respect to paying these delinquent special assessments by allocating the
appropriate sums from the existing interest earnings from the Park Grant
Funds and/or bond funds.
We request that this matter be referred to the Metropolitan Council's Park
and Open Space Commission and subsequently to the Metropolitan Council for
their consideration. We will be pleased to appear before these bodies at
any appropriate time.
Yours truly,
ces G. Willis
ccc. Josephine D. Nunn
David LatVaaho, Chair S.H.R.P.D.
Vernon Hartenburg, Superintendent S.H.R.P.D.
JGW:sh
^ r.
�'l ra ctT �r•
June 24, 1987
James G. Willis, City Manager
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
:3
Metropolitan Council
300 Metro Square Building
Seventh and Robert Streets
St. Foul, Minnesota 55101
RE: Special Assessments--C.E. French and Eagle Lake Regional Parks
Dear Mr. Willis:
(612) 291-6359
Your letter to Bob Nethercut about special assessments was distributed to the
Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission at its June 22, 1987, meeting,
with the enclosed staff reports and recommendations for allocation of FY 1988-
89 bond funds for the Recreation Open Space Capital Improvement Program and of
other current uncommitted regional park funds. The commission did discuss the
situation with Hennepin Parks' representative as well as Council staff. The
commission endorsed the staff recommendation to Metropolitan Council.
As you can see, the recommendations include three actions pertinent to the
special assessments for Plymouth and Maple Grove as follows:
- A specific allocation of $125,000 from the FY 88-89 funds is recommended
for the special assessments in the CIP allocation for Hennepin Parks.
- A specific allocation of $169,300, from currently unallocated funds, for
the special assessments, is recommended to Hennepin Parks.
- There's a recommendation that Hennepin Parks consider using part of a
separate $468,200 reimbursement to conclude the special assessment payments
due to Plymouth and to Maple Grove.
In this action, I think it's fair to say that the commission recognized the
problem, ensured that 1987 payments due could be met and did their best,
from limited resources, to enable and encourage Hennepin Parks to conclude the
payments.
The recommendation will now be forwarded to the Metropolitan Systems Committee
on Tuesday, June 30, 1987 at 11 a.m. Staff will make sure that your letter is
distributed to Council members on the committee and the issue will be discussed
as part of the report to them.
Although I'm reasonably sure that an agenda for the Metropolitan Parks and Open
Space Commission meeting was sent to your office, I apologize for failing to
give you separate notice in advance. If you have questions, please contact me.
JM:sa
An Equal Opportunity Employer
Enclosures
4
M E T R O P O L I T A N C O U N C I L
Suite 300 Metro Square Building, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101
DATE: June 23, 1987
TO: Metropolitan Systems Committee
FROM: Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission
SUBJECT: Use of Currently Uncommitted Regional Parks Funds
At its meeting on June 22, 1987, the Metropolitan.Parks and Open Space Com-
mission considered the attached staff memorandum. The discussion followed an
earlier action at the June 8 meeting where the Commission had directed staff to
prepare a draft plan to allocate uncommitted regional park funds to the known
contingency needs of the regional implementing agencies.
Discussion and Issues
Commissioners inquired of several implementing agency representatives present
as to the status of projects and needs stated. Special attention went to:
- Anoka County, regarding its contingency grant amendment request for the
swim facility at Bunker Hills Regional Park.
- Hennepin Parks, regarding the status of outstanding special assessments in
Plymouth and Maple Grove.
- Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, regarding the status of certain
acquisition on the Central Mississippi Riverfront and the possible sequence
of events if condemnation is required.
As a consequence of the discussion, no major issues were found with the
recommendations, which were approved.
Recommendation
That the Metropolitan Council:
1. Approve contingency grant amendments from unallocated recreation open space
funds as follows:
a. Development grant amendment of $200,000 with Anoka County for Bunker
Hills Regional Park.
b. Acquisition grant amendment of $150,000 with Ramsey County for Battle
Creek Regional Park.
C. Development grant amendment of $87,500 with Dakota County for Lake
Byllesby Regional Park.
d. Development grant amendment of $60,000 with Washington County for Lake
Elmo Park Reserve.
2
e. Acquisition grant amendment of $80,000 for stewardship at Lilydale-
Harriet Island Regional Park and a development grant amendment of
$35,000 for Como Conservatory, both with the City of St. Paul.
f. Acquisition grant amendments totalling $468,200 with Suburban Hennepin
Regional Park District for Cleary Lake, C.E. French and Fish Lake
Regional Parks.
g. Acquisition grant amendments totalling $169,300 with Suburban Hennepin
Regional Park District for special assessments owed to Plymouth and
Maple Grove for C.E. French and Fish Lake Regional Parks.
2. Recommend to Ramsey County that the county acquire another available
inholding in Battle Creek Regional Park and request reimbursement when
adequate regional funds become available to the Council.
3. Recommend to Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District that they utilize
part of the reimbursed funds to clear up outstanding special assessments
against regional parks in Plymouth and Maple Grove and apply for reimburse-
ment of the funds when adequate regional funds become available to the
Council.
Respectfully submitted,
Larry Kitto
Chair
M E T R O P O L I T A N C O U N C I L
Suite 300 Metro Square Building, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101
DATE: June 18, 1987
TO: Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission
FROM: Jack Mauritz
SUBJECT: Use of Currently Uncommitted Regional Parks Funds
Introduction
As pointed out to MPOSC in a June 8 issues discussion, the Council has a
substantial amount of uncommitted park grant funds on -hand. A May 1987
analysis indicates the amount to be $1,251,494. In addition, an estimated
$30,000 was earned as interest in May.
Staff concludes that the Council may safely allocate $1,250,000 to other
projects in the regional recreation open space system while still meeting all
current commitments. At the June 8 meeting, the commission directed staff to
prepare a draft plan to distribute the unallocated funds against contingencies
requested by the regional implementing agencies. This course of action was
chosen over the alternative of applying the uncommitted funds to projects in
the FY 88-89 CIP. The commission agreed with the implementing agency
representatives' consensus that the greater current need was to relieve as many
contingency problems as possible. Reason's included:
- No further contingency funds can be anticipated until FY 1990 because of
language in the 1987 bonding bill.
- Many of the contingency requests are reimbursements, several of them long
standing.
- Many of the contingency dollars paid to implementing agencies will very
likely be reused in other regional park applications, in essence doubling
their effect by this "recycling."
Preference for reimbursements over "new" projects was also stated to be an
important decision-making factor.
Authority to Review
Minnesota Statute Section 473.315, Subdivision 1, authorizes the Council, with
the advice of the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission, to make grants
for recreation open space purposes to cover all or a portion of the costs of
acquiring or developing regional recreation open space.
Discussion
Staff has collected an updated listing of contingency requests. The list is
attached as Appendix A. As the table shows, $1,250,000 is not adequate to meet
all requests, in fact, will not even meet all eligible reimbursements. As a
consequence, it was necessary to select a list which will best meet regional
objeRtives, while meeting agency requests as well as possible. In a few cases,
2
both Council staff and implementing agency staff agreed that reimbursement was
not the most logical criterion. Some projects were better able to advance
regional need and meet agency need even though they were not reimbursements.
The following list contains all recommendations, with a statement by staff
explaining the reasoning behind each.
1. Anoka County Bunker Hills Regional Park $200,000 D
- swim facility
The recommendation recognizes that the facility will otherwise stand
incomplete and be only marginally useful for the 88-89 biennium; plus,
could acquire a negative public image in that incomplete state. This
request is not a reimbursement but is Anoka County's top priority.
2. Ramsey County Battle Creek Regional Park $150,000 A
- inholding
This recommendation funds the larger of two inholding grants requested,
also the longer standing of the two. The approval should be accompanied by
a suggestion that Ramsey County acquire both inholdings available at this
time and seek reimbursement for the second one ($120,000 est.) from the
planned inholding reserve in the FY 88-89 CIP.
3. Dakota County Lake Byllesby Regional Park
- emergency repair on dam
$87,500 D
The recommendation recognizes that this was unexpected, unavoidable and
major structural repair on the dam. The amount represents a 50 percent
local share of the project cost, the balance came from Minnesota DNR "Dam
Safety" funds.
4. Washington County Lake Elmo Park Reserve
- development overruns
$60,000 D
The recommendation is for reimbursement of a collection of smaller overruns
on several contracts at Lake Elmo completed during four years' development
work, all of which have been met by the county.
5. St. Paul Lilydale-Harriet Island Regional Park $80,000 A
- fencing
The grant provides fencing for visitor safety, resource protection and
enforcement of ordinances. This is one requested top priority project
which is not a reimbursement.
6. St. Paul
Como Conservatory
- redevelopment overruns
$35,000 R
Will reimburse for work completed under regional grant contracts. The city
has met the costs to keep work going and should be encouraged to continue
doing so.
7. Suburban Hennepin
Regional Park
District
3
Cleary Lake, C.E. French and
Fish Lake Regional Parks
$468,200 A
- condemnation overruns and other acquisition
The Council's approval of this long-standing reimbursement request should
include a suggestion that Hennepin Parks apply enough of these funds to
close out the special assessment balance with Plymouth and Maple Grove,
Joining approximately $225,000 of these funds to the contingency allocation
recommended below and the recommended FY 88-89 CIP allocation. Funds
advanced by Hennepin Parks from this contingency reimbursement would be
eligible for reimbursement when adequate regional funds become available.
8. SHRPD C.E. French/Fish Lake Regional Parks $169,300 A
- special assessments
This recommendation applies the remaining balance of the contingency funds
to special assessments in Plymouth and Maple Grove. This $169,300 alloca-
tion, plus a $125,000 CIP allocation for this purpose, will be adequate to
meet 1987 payments. If SHRPD decides to use the reimbursed funds as recom-
mended above, a major regional problem will be cleared without further
penalty.
The recommendations include all top priority quantified requests from the
implementing agencies and, in staff opinion, meet several urgent regional
priorities as well. They do not cover all reimbursements requested. Funds are
inadequate to do so. Reimbursements requested for residential inholdings will
be eligible for the inholding reserve in the FY 88-89 biennium, though that
fund will not be adequate for all the known inholdings in the system. If fur-
ther funds are sought in this biennium, the inholding reserve and the emergency
acquisition and development reserves should be prominent among the projects to
receive more dollars, to meet these requests plus new ones sure to come.
A unique request from MPRB also needs discussion. The park board is entering
condemnation for parcels on the west bank in Central Mississippi Riverfront
Regional Park. They suspect that an unfavorable award could exceed resources
in the grant. MPRB has, therefore, suggested that some of the unallocated
funds be reserved for that contingency. Staff recommends an alternative. The
FY 88-89 CIP, if approved as recommended, will contain an emergency acquisition
and development reserve which is meant for just such problems. Staff suggests
that the reserve can be held against the contingency, that MPRB be encouraged
to conclude the acquisition as quickly as possible and the emergency fund be
allocated against any problem which exists at that time. Current unallocated
funds should be used now to meet existing contingency needs.
RECOMMENDATIONS
That the Metropolitan Council:
1. Approve contingency grant amendments from unallocated recreation open space
funds as follows:
a. Development grant amendment of $200,000 with Anoka County for Bunker
Hills Regional Park.
b. Acquisition grant amendment of $150,000 with Ramsey County for Battle
Creek Regional Park.
4
C. Development grant amendment of $87,500 with Dakota County for Lake
Byllesby Regional Park.
d. Development grant amendment of $60,000 with Washington County for Lake
Elmo Park Reserve.
e. Acquisition grant amendment of $80,000 for stewardship at Lilydale-
Harriet Island Regional Park and a development grant amendment of
$35,000 for Como Conservatory, both with the City of St. Paul.
f. Acquisition grant amendments totalling $468,200 with Suburban Hennepin
Regional Park District for Cleary Lake, C.E. French and Fish Lake
Regional Parks.
g. Acquisition grant amendments totalling $169,300 with Suburban
Hennepin Regional Park District for special assessments owed to
Plymouth and Maple Grove for C.E. French and Fish Lake Regional Parks.
2. Recommend to Ramsey County that the county acquire another available
inholding in Battle Creek Regional Park and request reimbursement when
adequate regional funds become available to the Council.
3. Recommend to Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District that they utilize
part of the reimbursed funds to clear up outstanding special assessments
against regional parks in Plymouth and Maple Grove and apply for reimburse-
ment of the funds when adequate regional funds become available to the
Council.
SA4495-PHOPNI
6.19.87
REVISED CONTINGENCY REQUESTS
Agency/Park
A/D*
Purpose
Anoka County:
Bunker Hills RP
Coon Rapids Dam RP
D
D
Swim facility bid overage
Lake/picnic area
Dakota County:
Lake Byllesby RP
D
Shared cost for emergency
dam repair
Minneapolis Park and
Recreation
Board:
Central Mississippi
A
Potential condemnation
Riverf ront RP
overage
Central Mississippi
A
MCDA advanced
Riverfront RP
Ramsey County:
Battle Creek RP
A
Inholding
Battle Creek RP
A
Inholding
St. Paul:
Lilydale-Harriet D Fencing
Island RP
Battle Creek RP D Indian Mound area
Battle Creek RP A Inholdings
Como Conservatory R Development overage
Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District:
Cleary Lake RP A Inholding
C. E. French RP A Condemnation overage
Fish Lake RP A Condemnation overage
C.E. French/ A Special assessments to
Fish Lake RPs Plymouth/Maple Grove
Lake Rebecca PR A Inholding
Murphy Hanrehan PR A Inholding
a. Recommended for funding
b. Reimbursements
c. Not requested now
d. In negotiation
e. Available for some time
f. Key parcel, newly available
g. Major regional penalty potential
h. Willing seller
* A = Acquisition; D = Development
APPENDIX A
Amount
$ 200,000a
800,000b,c
87,500a,b
(±400,000)d
(N/A)b
150,000a,e
120,000f
80,000a
100,000b
208,205b
35:OOOa,b
71,400a,b
308,000a,b
882800a,b
518,3009
85,000h
115,000h
REVISED CONTINGENCY REQUESTS
(Continued)
Agency/Park A/D* Purpose Amount
Washington County:
Lake Elmo PR D Contingency, overage
Cottage Grove Ravine A Condemnation, potential
overrun
AGENCY REQUESTS, TOP PRIORITY
MAJOR PROBLEM, REGIONAL PENALTY POTENTIAL
REIMBURSEMENTS (TOTAL)
TOTAL OF ALL REQUESTS IDENTIFIED (other unquantified
requests exist)
60'OOOa,b
68,500d
$1,050,700
$ 518,300
$1,908,700
$3,085,500
A-2
M E T R O P O L I T A N C 0 U N C I L
Suite 300 Metro Square Building, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101
DATE: June 23, 1987
TO: Metropolitan Systems Committee
FROM: Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission
SUBJECT: Draft Implementation Plan for FY 88-89 Recreation
Open Space Capital Improvement Program, Funds
from the 1987 Bonding Bill; Setting a Public Meeting
At its meeting on June 22, 1987, the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Com-
mission reviewed the staff report and recommendations from regional park
implementing agency representativates on allocation of recreation open space
funds received in the 1987 state bonding bill. The memo was based upon an
earlier discussion at the June 8 meeting of the Commission, where staff was
directed to prepare a draft implementation plan. (See also the "Issues" memo
dated June 2, 1987, attached for your information.)
Discussion by commissioners included clarification of certain projects proposed
and centered around the relative value to the regional system of some alterna-
tives, plus the degree of consensus among the implementing agencies as to the
appropriateness of the proposed allocations.
No issues were identified.
Recommendation
That the Metropolitan Council:
1. Approve, for the purpose of holding a public meeting, the Implementation
Plan as recommended in Table 1 to allocate the $9.5 million received for
Recreation Open Space Capital Improvement Program projects from the 1987
bonding bill.
2. Set a public meeting for Tuesday, August 11, before the Metropolitan
Systems Committee, to hear comments regarding the draft Implementation Plan.
Respectfully submitted,
Larry Kitto
Chair
M E T R O P O L I T A N C 0 U N C I L
Suite 300 Metro Square Building, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101
DATE: June 17, 1987
TO: Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission
FROM: Jack Mauritz, Parks and Natural Resources Division
SUBJECT: Draft Implementation Plan for FY 88-89 Recreation
Open Space Capital Improvement Program,
Funds from the 1987 Bonding Bill
The attached table is the staff recommendation for projects to be funded from
the $9.5 million allocated to the regional CIP in the 1987 bonding bill.
The recommendations have been developed in close consultation with staff from
the implementing agencies. The column headed IA Proposed lists projects as
recommended by each agency.
Staff assigned a "regional value" ranking to each proposal based on four
criteria listed below. Inasmuch as all projects in the FY 88-89 proposed
biennium, i.e., the $25 million, had undergone a multiple -criteria, data -based
ranking by staff, it seemed inappropriate to apply another complex ranking.
The following four points were selected with a view to keeping things as simple
as possible.
A. Potential Usership
- when compared to other similar facilities in
the system
B. Unsatisfied Demand
- for proposed facility in the regional system
C. Current Service
- in this part of the region
D. Value to immediate project
- in that the proposal will bring the facility
to a usable phase of development
High (5 pts)
Moderate (3 pts)
Low (1 pt)
High (5 pts)
Moderate (3 pts)
Low (1 pt)
Inadequate (5 pts)
Marginally
adequate (3 pts)
Fully adequate (1 pt)
High (5 pts)
Moderate (3 pts)
Low (1 pt)
The numbers in the Regional Value column represent the sums of scores assigned
by Council staff using the four points above. Scores below 12 indicate low
ranking.
The last entry is staff comments and, in some cases, alternatives. As readily
seen, most comments are supportive of the implementing agency proposal.
Because of the close working relationship with implementing agency representa-
tives, this is not too surprising. Much give and take occurred during the
discussions. Other possible allocations could have earned much lower regional
value scores.
-2 -
Recommendations
That the Metropolitan Council:
1. Approve, for the purpose of holding a public meeting, the Implementation
Plan as recommended in Table 1 to allocate the $9.5 million received for
Recreation Open Space Capital Improvement Program projects from the 1987
bonding bill.
2. Set a public meeting for Tuesday, August 11, before the Metropolitan
Systems Committee, to hear comments regarding the draft Implementation
Plan.
SA4490-PHOPNI
6.17.87
DRAFT
6
Table 1 .13.87
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
RECREATION OPEN SPACE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
FY 88-89
(in thousands of dollars)
Current CIP Allocation Implementing Agency Regional
(by agency) 38%1 Proposal and Comments Value
ANOKA COUNTY:
Lake George 938 Lake George 628 D
Rice Cr -Ch of Lks 715 Continue picnic, sanitary facilities,
1653 628 other general lake recreation area
project
Staff concurs with the agency's recommendation.
BLOOMINGTON:
Hyl. -Bush -Anderson 150 57 Hyland -Bush -Anderson 57 D
Picnic shelter
Staff concurs with the agency's recommendation; this is a reimbursement.
CARVER COUNTY:
Lk Minnewashta 416 158 Lake Minnewashta 158 D
Detail forthcoming, following week
of June 22-27.
Staff concurs in the recommendation.
DAKOTA COUNTY:
Lebanon Hills 900 Lebanon Hills 395 D
Spring Lake 600 at Hol. -Jenson, parking and toilets;
Miesville Ravine 102 at Sacajewa, parking and shelter
1T22 616
Spring Lake 221 D
roads to picnic and campground plus
campground toilet building
Staff concurs in the recommendations. Both revised projects retain the highest
(regional) valued parts of larger projects.
14
14
IL-11
16
1 $9.5;million (amount appropriated)is 38 percent of $25 million (amount requested).
Table 1 (Continued)
Current CIP Allocation Implementing Agency Regionr
(by agency) 38%1 Proposal and Comments Value
MINNEAPOLIS PARK AND RECREATION BOARD:
Central Mississippi 2976 Central Mississippi 1942 A 20
System maintenance 1500 West bank acquisition
Mississippi Gorge 200
Nokomis -Hiawatha 40
Chain of Lakes 395
5111 1942
Staff concurs in recommendation.
RAMSEY COUNTY:
System maintenance 500
Bald Eagle -Otter Lk 400
Battle Creek 880
Long Lake 200
•:E
System maintenance
500 D 12*
Bald Eagle -Otter Lake 253 D 16**
Remaining 150 from existing acquisi-
753 tion grant surplus and agency earned
interest funds (Lilydale-Harriet and
Grass-Vadnais acquisitions) to make the
400 needed
*Since this is not a direct user service project, scoring is not really valid in
this framework. The project is reimbursement for a needed system facility.
**Staff concurs in the recommendation; the supplemental funds from other regional
sources can make this work.
- CITY OF ST. PAUL:
Como
Conservatory
2000
Como
Miss
Como
Gorge
400
1542 D 20
Allocation such that funds may be
Como
Park
Zoo
1358
300
applied to Como park, zoo or con -
servatory as appropriate to most
4058 1542
effectively further projects underway
Staff concurs in the recommendation.
SUBURBAN HENNEPIN REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT:
French/Eagle Lake 508 French/Eagle Lake 125 A 8*
Murphy-Hanrehan 200 Special assessments by Plymouth and
Bryant Lake 1880 Maple Grove; the remainder is recom-
Fish Lake 1650 mended as a grant from unallocated
No Hennepin Trail 1292 funds at the Council
5530 2101
North Hennepin Trail 200 A 20**
Reimbursement (potential for further
trail purchase)
Fish Lake 1776 D 16***
*Not`a user service project so scoring not really valid in this framework.
**Presume recycling to regional system for this trail reimbursement.
***Staff scored Bryant Lake (18) over Fish Lake (16) .
Table 1 (Continued)
Current CIP Allocation Implementing Agency Regional
(by agency) 38%1 Proposal and Comments Value
WASHINGTON COUNTY:
Lake Elmo 730 Cottage Grove Ravine 210 A 12*
Cottage Grove Rav 350 Exert option on acquisition
1080 410
Lake Elmo 200 D 18**
Expanded parking at swim facility
*Despite lower Regional Value score, the Cottage Grove Ravine acquisition is
higher value for the county, in that it carries through an earlier commitment
and avoids major penalty, in a future acquisition renegotiation this land will
more than double in price. Staff concurs with the logic in this argument.
**Staff concurs in this recommendation.
SYSTEM -WIDE:
Inholding
1500
570
500
A
Emergency A & D
1000
380
300
A/D
Nat Res Rehab
500
190
92
D
Res/Plug/Admin
400
_400
152
400
D
3
1292
1292
High regional value assumed for all. The sharpest reduction, in the Natural
Resource Rehabilitation, leaves a very small remnant. Staff recommends its reten-
tion, however, to keep attention on the program. It remains the only source of
resource management aid in the regional system and could serve to lever contri-
butions from foundations and environmental interest organizations.
SA4491-PHOPNI
6.23.87
1 — s
ATTACHMENT
M E T R O P O L I T A N C 0 U N C I L
Suite 300 Metro Square Building, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101
DATE: June 2, 1987
TO: Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission
FROM: Jack Mauritz, Parks and Natural Resources Division
SUBJECT: Issues and Alternatives --Implementation of Recreation
Open Space Funding
INTRODUCTION
The 1987 Minnesota Legislature has approved a bonding bill and an appropria-
tions bill, each of which affect regional recreation open space. The exact
Provisions of the bills are excerpted in Attachment A. Because the legislature
approved funding in different amounts, and in some instances, for different
purposes than the Council's CIP and legislative request detailed, the
Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission needs to recommend a revised
course of action to the Metropolitan Council.
This document is organized as a series of issue discussions and contains
observations and alternatives suggested by staff and implementing agency
representatives.
ISSUE I --WHAT PROCESS SHOULD THE METROPOLITAN PARKS AND OPEN SPACE COMMISSION/
METRM56-LITAN COU IL U E 0 DEV LOP A LIST OF PROJECTS AND ALLOCATIONS
OBSERVATIONS
A. When the Commission/Council adopted the FY 88-89 biennium of the CIP as its
legislative request, it also stated the intent to make cutbacks
proportional to reduced funds. The $9.5 million approved represents 38
percent of the requested $25 million.
B. The revised list of projects and funds allocated could be approved in
several forms, most appear to be variations on the two following choices:
1. Amend the CIP to include the line items and do an implementation plan
UP), which would fund only projects from the already approved FY 88-
89 biennium CIP list. An IP could reallocate funds to optimize what
the pro -rated share could accomplish, based on each agency's input and
on regional priority.
2. Prepare an amended and expanded CIP, which would re -open both the list
of projects and the allocation to each agency. Clearly, this would
require more extensive analysis, including full review of the priority
which established the legislative request. A completely revised CIP
might not be consistent with that provided to legislators during the
session, requiring explaining there as well. It could require amend-
ment again in the case of a future decision to seek supplementary
funds for the CIP.
2
C. As discussed with the implementing agencies, staff has not proposed a
reduction in the $400,000 allocated to the Council by the legislature.
D. Three line items are also in the bill. Commission/Council will need to
decide if each affects how the $9.5 million is to be pro -rated and/or
allocated. They are:
- $6,000,000 for grants to SHRPD for acquisition and betterment of a
Lake Minnetonka Regional Park. The Council's request was made as a
special project opportunity and emphasized so throughout. This was
part of the Council's request but was not part of the CIP. It was
developed after the CIP was adopted, as part of a separate Council
recommendation on Lake Minnetonka issues.
- North Mississippi Regional Park which has no specific dollar
allocation, but is designated to receive all interest earned in the
biennium.
- $3,000,000 to MPRB for Great River Road acquisition in Central
Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park. This was directly appropriated
to MPRB, not the Council, and was not part of the Council's request.
Staff assumes that line item identification indicates legislators did not
regard those projects to be part of their action on the $25 million CIP
request, which they chose to fund at $9.5 million. The separation was not
inadvertant. The implication is that incorporating the line item entries
into the CIP and reducing the designated agencies' pro -rated allocations
accordingly, would not be in accord with legislative intent. To do so
could well affect future legislative decisions about the system.
ALTERNATIVES
The Commission/Council may choose between two procedures, either to prepare a
restricted CIP amendment adding line items and an Implementation Plan which
stays within the current CIP and its priority system, or, to prepare a com-
pletely revised and amended CIP, opening the list to a wider range of potential
projects and necessitating repriorization of the extended listing.
ISSUE II --SOME OF THE LINE ITEM ENTRIES IN THE BILL ARE NOT NOW IN THE
COUNCIL'S CIP FOR THE FY 88-89- IENN UM
OBSERVATIONS
In addition to Lake Minnetonka, added after the biennium was approved, the
bonding bill requires that the Council collect all interest earned and use it
to make grants for acquisition and development in North Mississippi Regional
Park. This latter commitment to a project not in the CIP is further compli-
cated by the absence of an amount to be designated. Thus, the CIP entry must
be for an unspecified amount, making it hard to ascertain priority.
There is no need to add the $3,000,000 for MPRB for Great River Road acquisi-
tion to the regional CIP, inasmuch as the funds are directed from DEED to MPRB
rather than the usual track from DEED to Council to the implementing agency.
3
ALTERNATIVES
Staff sees little Commission/Council choice in this issue. Initiating a CIP
amendment adding Lake Minnetonka Regional Park and North Mississippi Regional
Park to the CIP for the FY 88-89 biennium appears inescapable.
ISSUE III --USE OF CURRENT UNCOMMITTED REGIONAL PARKS FUNDS
As of May 1987, the Council has approximately $1.5 million in uncommitted grant
funds on hand, above those required to meet outstanding CIP commitments and
the requirements of the 1985 bonding bill.
As of the end of April, implementing agencies have identified $2.9 million plus
in contingency requests. These requests are collected in Attachment B. This
issue has not been forwarded before. At implementing agency suggestion, it
was held for legislative decision on the FY 88-89 bonding bill.
As discussed in Issue I, there could be a decision to reopen and expand the
CIP. The $1.3 million "reserve" could be used to "stretch" the $9.5 million.
OBSERVATIONS
Review of the list of agency requests shows the following:
1. There is about $1.1 million in requested reimbursements to implementing
agencies.
2. The total of each agency's top priority request, not all of which are
reimbursements, is $960,000.
3. All itemized requests total approximately $2.9 million, to which could be
added (potential) requests by MPRB and SHRPD which cannot be quantified at
this time. The $2.9 million includes an $800,000 reimbursement which is
not requested at this time (i.e., Anoka County reimbursement is not
anticipated until 1990 or beyond). The MPRB's unquantified request deals
with an anticipated condemnation award above appraisals/ estimates which
could be $200,000 or more. SHRPD's is for several inholdings for which
appraisals are not yet done.
4. On the necessary decision to apply these funds to the contingency requests
or to utilize them to "stretch" the FY 88-89 CIP, the following seems
pertinent:
- No other contingency money for regional projects can be anticipated
until the end of the FY 89 period because of the dedicated interest
requirement of the 87 bonding bill.
- Inholding and emergency acquisition reserves in the reduced funds for
FY 88-89 will be very limited.
- The implementing agency consensus was that their greater need was for
the contingency list than for the CIP.
- Many of the contingency requests, especially those representing
reimbursements, have been standing for a long time.
- Reimbursement of implementing agency outlays may further the system
through their reinvestment of the funds in regional projects.
4
-3
Meeting contingency and reimbursement needs lends greater credibility
to the partnership and could encourage implementing agency policy
boards to continue other regional project activity.
- If these funds are added to the CIP, the proration becomes 43 percent
rather than 38, not a large gain.
5. If the decision is to use the uncommitted funds for the contingencies/
emergency requests, the following criteria should be considered:
a. Agency requests should be evaluated for their regional contri-
bution. The criteria should develop a Regional Priority Score
addressing amount of use to be provided, regional need and penalties
to the regional system by postponement.
b. Reimbursements seem to be the prudent choice over other categories,
for reasons stated above. Duration may be a factor to look at.
C. Agencies have indicated their top priorities (see Attachment B) and,
except for MPRB requests, not now quantified, each can be met within
funds available.
6. All of the requests represent amendments to existing contracts, no CIP
amendments are required.
SUMMARY AND STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Following discussion of these three issues, the Metropolitan Parks and Open
Space Commission should direct a staff process. Our recommendations are:
1. Prepare a draft implementation plan for the FY 88-89 CIP funds with
extensive implementing agency involvement. The commission should consider
a staff draft at its next meeting.
2. Initiate a CIP amendment to add Lake Minnetonka and North Mississippi
Regional Parks to the FY 88-89 CIP.
3. Prepare a separate draft implementation plan applying current uncommitted
funds to the contingency requests with extensive implementing agency
involvement. The commission should consider a staff draft at its next
meeting.
Attachment A
EXCERPTS FROM 1987 LEGISLATION REGARDING REGIONAL PARKS
Re ional Parks Bondinq and Interest Earnings (H.F. 919, Sec. 8, subd. 2(b),
subd. 5, and H.F. M, Sec. 45)
Sec. 8, Subd. 2 Outdoor Recreation
(b) Metropolitan Open Space $15,500,000
$9,500,000 is for payment by the commissioners of energy and economic
development to the metropolitan council established under Minnesota Statutes,
section 473.123. The commission shall transfer the amount to the metropolitan
council upon receipt of a certified copy of a council resolution requesting
payment. The appropriation must be used to pay the cost of acquisition and
betterment by the metropolitan council and local government units of regional
recreation open space lands in accordance with the council's policy plan as
provided in Minensota Statutes, sections 473.315 and 473.341, including
relocation costs and tax equivalents required to be paid by Minnesota Statutes,
sections 473.315 and 473.341.
$6,000,000 is for the acquisition and betterment of land on Lake Minnetonka for
a regional park. No more than $400,000 may be used for staff and independent
professional services necessary to acquire and better open space and for the
performance of the duties of the metropolitan council under this paragraph.
The acquisition and betterment may include land between Lake Minnetonka and
Stone Lake, to assist in connecting the Lake Minnetonka regional park with
Carver park reserve. Of the $6,000,000 the sum of $250,000 may be used to
develop parking and a pedestrian underpass to support a public access site in
the city of Mound.
Subd. 5 Great River Road Project 3,000,000
This appropriation is for a grant to the Minneapolis park and recreation board
for land acquisition for the Grat River Road project in the central
Mississippi regional park along the central waterfront area in downtown
Minneapolis, provided that the city of Minneapolis issues $3,000,000 in bonds
to be used to acquire land for the same project by January 1, 1988.
Sec. 45 Interest Earnings
The provisions of Laws 1985, First Special Session, Chap. 15, section 5,
subdivision 2, paragraph (b), relating to interest earnings shall continue
regardless of any dollar amount limitation.
Operations and Maintenance (H.F. 1315, Sec. 26, subd. 6 and Sec. 177, subd. 3)
Sec. 26, Subd. 6
$2,000,000 the first year and $2,000,000 the second year are for payment of a
grant to the metropolitan council for metropolitan area regional parks
maintenance and operation money.
Note: enabling legislation on operation and maintenance grant formula passed in
1985;is continued as the sunset provision was repealed.
A-2
Subd. 3 Restriction
A metropolitan area regional park receiving grant money for maintenance and
operation costs must agree:
(1) to sell or promote licenses, passes, or registrations required to engage
in recreational activities appropriate to the park or the site of the park
when a building on the park site is staffed and open to the public; and
(2) to provide drinking water supplies adequate for the recreational uses of
the park. Each implementing agency must consult with groups representing
users of its parks to determine the adequacy of drinking water supplies.
Feasibilit Stud of Desiqnatina County Parks in Metropolitan Area as State
ar s . . ubd.
The commissioner (department of energy and economic development) in consulta-
tion with the chair of the LCMR, or the chair's designee, shall prepare a
report for the chairs of the environment and appropriations committees in the
house and the chairs of the environment and finance committees in the senate by
• January 1, 1989 examining the feasibility of designating county parks in the
seven county metropolitan area as state parks. The report shall include
analysis of operation and maintenance costs and the extent of the public's use
of the parks, and a comparison of the effeciency and cost effectiveness of
county management versus state management of the parks.
Attachment B
a. Top Agency Priorities - Total $957,890 (does not include MPRB amount)
b. Reimbursements - Total $1,089,605
c. Potential
d. In 87 legislative request
e. Willing sellers
SUMMARY OF CONTINGENCY REQUESTS
Acquisition/
Agency/Park
Development
Purpose
Amount
Anoka County:
Bunker Hills RP
Coon Rapids Dam RP
D
D
Bid overage
Lake/picnic area
$ 200 OOOa
800 1000 b
$1,b��
MPRB:
Central Mississippi
A
Condemnation
N/Aa
Riverfront RP
Central Mississippi
D
overage
MCDA advanced
Riverfront RP
N/A
Ramsey County:
Battle Creek RP
A
Inholding
$150 OOOa,b
Battle Creek RP
A
Inholding
120,000c
$270, 000
St. Paul:
Lilydale-Harriet
D
Fencing
$ 80,000a
Island RP
Battle Creek RP
Battle Creek RP
D
A
Indian Mound area
100,000b
Como Conservatory
R
Inholdings
Devlp. overage
208,205b
3 5 000b
Suburban Hennepin Regional
Park District:
Cleary Lake RP
C. E. French RP
A
A
Inholding
$ 71 400a,b
Fish Lake RP
A
Condemnation overage
Condemnation overage
308,000a,b
88800a,b
C. E. French RP
A
Special assessment
'
F
Fish Lake/Eagle
A
to Plymouth
Special ecial assessments
355,900d
Lake RPs
Lake Rebecca PR
A
to Maple Grove
Inholding
162,400d
85
Murphy Hanrehan PR
A
Inholding
OOOe
115,000e
Lake Rebecca, Carver
A
Inholdings
'N/Ae
and Elm Creek PRs
(not complete)
$1-,T8-6,500
TOTAL ALL REQUESTS
(not complete)
$2,879,705
a. Top Agency Priorities - Total $957,890 (does not include MPRB amount)
b. Reimbursements - Total $1,089,605
c. Potential
d. In 87 legislative request
e. Willing sellers
Attachment C
REVISIONS: RECREATION OPEN SPACE IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM FOR FY 88-89
Tentative Schedule
May 22 Report to implementing agencies on probable funding available for
FY 88-89, discuss process per this schedule. Request input on:
- Criteria for priority (theirs and regional).
- Their ranked revised project list, including contingency and
emergency.
- Suggestions for process.
May 29 Tentative priority criteria and process recommendation to
Metropolitan Park and Open Space Commission (for June 8 meeting).
June 8 MPOSC discusses revision, no action except direction to staff.
June 12 Discuss staff draft revised IP/CIP with implementing agencies.
June 15 Prepare and mail "staff draft" revised IP/CIP to MPOSC.
June 22 MPOSC discusses and, if ready acts on recommended revised IP/CIP for
FY 88-89 for hearing (or hold extra meeting on June 29 to take
action).
July 7 Metropolitan Systems Committee recommends revised IP/CIP for hearing.
July 9 Metropolitan Council sets public hearing.
Aug. 11 Public hearing before Metropolitan Systems Committee.
Aug. 25 Hearing record closes.
Aug. 31 MPOSC recommends IP/CIP.
Sept. 15 Metropolitan Systems Committee recommends IP/CIP.
Sept. 24 Metropolitan Council adopts revised Recreation Open Space Imple-
mentation Plan and Capital Improvement Program for FY 88-89 biennium.
+ \<0 � `i C
HENNEPIN
PARKS August 5, 19�_
Suburban Hennepin
Regional Park District
12615 County Road 9
P.O. Box 41320 Mr. Jim Willis, City Manager
Pwnouth.MN55441 City of Plymouth
Telephone (612) 559-9000 3400 P 1 ymo u t h Blvd.
board of Commissloners Plymouth, MN 55447
David Latvaaho
Chair
Golden Volley Re: Special Assessments
$Irby k Sonlne
Ce ChOk
Mole Plain Dear Jim:
My
JW"h S. Anderson
Bicornington
RobedLEllingson
ng In December, prior to the 1987 Legislative Session, I wrote to you
BrooknynCe Center regarding regarding the Park District's request for funding through the
HkholasEoloH Metropolitan Council to cover special assessment obligations within
Robbinsdale
Mona H.Mo*de the cities of Plymouth and Maple Grove. The Park District had
Golden Valley requested $508,000 for these special assessments. Unfortunately, the
"Mound legislature did not fund the Metropolitan Council's Capital
Improvement Program for Regional Parks and Open Space at the level
VemJ.Hartanburg requested. The program was reduced significantly from $25 million toSuperintendent &
Secretory to the $9.5 million. The Park District considers payment of special
Board assessments as a high priority for funding. Responding to the Park
District's request, the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission
has allocated $125,000 from the 1987 appropriation on special
assessments for regional park properties within the cities of Maple
Grove and Plymouth. In addition, the Commission concurred with the
recommendation that $169,300 of park and open space project interest
earnings be allocated for this purpose, bringing the total amount to
$294,300. These projects will be considered along with the other
Metropolitan Parks and Open Space capital funding recommendations at a
Metropolitan Council Systems Committee Public Nearing scheduled for
August 11, 11:00 a.m. Your continued support for this appropriation
is appreciated.
Assuming that the full amount of $294,300 is approved, it is the Park
District's intention to apply approximately $236,000 to pay principal
interest and penalties on all delinquent special assessments within
Eagle Lake and French Regional Parks. Based on our calculations
(confirmed by your staff), this will close out the special assessment
obligation within Eagle Lake Regional Park. In addition,
approximately $10,000 will be applied to the current obligations. We
anticipate that these monies will be available to make payment before
the end of 1987.
Mr. Jim Willis
Page 2
August 5, 1987
With respect to remaining current and future obligations, the Park
District will continue to seek funding from the Metropolitan Council.
We are in the process of updating our Five—Year Capital Improvement
Program. Consistent with previous CIP's, special assessments have
been assigned a high priority.
Thank you for your ongoing support for this funding. If you have any
questions, please call.
GAM: af
Sin erely,
Gregory A. Director
Department M agement
Services
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
AUGUST 26, 1987
The Regular Meeting of the Plymouth Planning Commission was
called to order at 7:06 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Steigerwald and Commissioners
Wire, Stulberg, Plufka, Marofsky, and
Pauba
MEMBERS ABSENT: Commissioner Zylla
STAFF PRESENT: Planning Director Blair Tremere
Community Development Coordinator
Ray Anderson
City Engineer Sherm Goldberg
Public Works Director Fred Moore
Planning Secretary Grace Wineman
*MINUTES
MOTION by Commissioner Pauba, seconded by Commissioner NOTION TO APPROVE
Plufka to approve the August 12, 1957 Planning Commission
Minutes as submitted.
VOTE 6 Ayes. MOTION carried.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
The Commission discussed the Community -Based Residential
Facilities Study and the changes, as discussed by the Plan-
ning Commission and the Special Committee at the joint meet-
ing, which have been included in the report forwarded to the
Commission.
Commissioner Marofsky inquired if the report could be re-
published on a "letter quality" printer for easier reading.
Director Tremere stated this can be done.
Director Tremere advised the Commission that the report is
on disk, and any modifications, corrections, and additions
recommended by the Commission can be easily included within
the body of the report.
MOTION by Commissioner Plufka, seconded by Commissioner NOTION TO RECEIVE
Marofsky to receive the report and take it under advisement THE REPORT
for further review and consideration prior to establishing a
date for Public Hearing on recommendations to the City
Council.
Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried.
NOTION CARRIED
-193-
Page 194
Planning Commission Minutes
August 26, 1987
Director Tremere stated that with an ambitious schedule, it
would be the first part of October before a Public Hearing
could be held. It may be advisable to request that the City
Council extend the moratorium to allow the Commission
adequate time to study the report and discuss any
modifications or changes.
Commissioner Plufka stated that the decision should be at
what point to qo to the City Council; it would seem
appropriate to not schedule a Public Hearing and draft any
ordinances until the Commission identfifies basic issues and
gets direction from the Council.
Chairman Steigerwald stated the Mayor has discussed with him
the feasibility of extending the moratorium. He suggested
that staff prepare a synopsis of the report to facilitate
initial review. Director Tremere stated that pages 1
through 5 of the report constitute an executive summary
prepared by the consultant.
Commissioner Stulberg requested that Director Tremere
prepare a short report and list the major points as
background information for the Commission.
Commissioner Marofsky inquired if the report is now public
record? Director Tremere answered affirmatively. Commis-
sioner Marofsky expressed concern that the report could be
taken as a final endorsement. Commissioner Pluka was also
concerned about premature review and conclusions.
Director Tremere suggested a cover statement could describe
the report as a preview to further recommendations,
considerations, and modification by the Planning Commission
and City Council.
The Commission discussed that, rather than forming special
districts where community-based facilities may be located,
there may be merit in formulating specific location
criteria.
Director Tremere and the Commission discussed the Land Use
Guide Plan designation for public/semi-public (parks and
schools), noting there is no corresponding zoning district;
and this could be a consideration in establishing criteria.
Page 195
Planning Commission Minutes
August 26, 1987
PUBLIC HEARING
Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by Delmer Weaver
for a Preliminary Plat and Variance. An overview of the
August 19, 1987 staff report was provided by Coordinator
Anderson.
Commissioner Marofsky inquired if the Parks Department had
concerns about connecting 26th Avenue to the park.
Coordinator Anderson stated that the Parks Department has
reviewed the plans and they expressed no interest in that.
Chairman Steiqerwald introduced Greg Frank, McCombs -Knutson
Associates, who represents the petitioner. Mr. Frank stated
the Parks Department indicated the need for trail and cash
in -lieu of land dedication. He explained the petitioner's
request for a variance on Lot 4 has to do with his hobby
which is repairing and restoring antique cars and he wishes
to retain the garage for this purpose. He further stated
that Mr. Weaver has set up a will which assigns Lot 4 to his
children; and, that he will remove the barn.
Mr. Frank addressed concerns with the Engineer's Memorandum
in reference to the requirement for curb and gutter and
assessments. He stated that the street has bituminous curb
which is in good shape and that replacing the it with
concrete curb and gutter would be more appropriate when it
can be accomplished simultaneously with the entire street
rather than just that segment at Mr. Weaver's property.
Commissioner Marofsky inquired what the distance is from
Mr. Weaver's house to the west property line? Mr. Frank
stated it would be.approximately 30 ft.
Further discussion ensued regarding the Variance request.
Director Tremere explained that Lots 3 and 4 could be
platted as one, and Lot 4 could be created in the future.
As one lot, this property could be homesteaded and the
accessory building could be retained.
Extensive discussion ensued and it was suggested a covenant
allowing accessory buildings to remain on Lot 4 until such
time as the ownership of Lots 3 or 4 changes is an
alternative to requiring removal of the accessory buildings
at this time.
Mr. Delmer Weaver expressed his concern regarding higher
taxes and assessments. He said he would consider the option
of leaving Lots 3 and 4 as one parcel, but he does not
prefer it.
Chairman Steigerwald opened the Public Hearing.
DELMER L. WEAVER
PRELIMINARY PLAT AND
VARIANCE (87081)
Page 196
Planning Commission Minutes
August 26, 1987
Nancy Camarate, 18155 27th Avenue North, expressed concern
regarding drainage problems in this area and wanted to bring
this to the City's attention. She is hopeful there will be
something done about this problem before other homes are
built.
Engineer Goldberg stated the City is aware of the problem
and will closely review the storm sewer work to be
accomplished. He stated the creek will be maintained for
proper drainage.
Mr. Weaver stated that during the early development of the
Meadowood Addition, the City engineers allowed the creek to
be moved. He noted that the culvert on 26th Avenue is
higher than the creek which prohibits proper drainage.
Chairman Steigerwald explained the City's requirement for
maintenance of drainage systems.
Commissioner Plufka inquired which alternative, relative to
Lots 3 and 4 and the accessory building, is preferred? Mr.
Frank inquired if options and/or alternatives could be made
a condition of approval to be further discussed with City
staff, prior to City Council consideration.
Commissioner Plufka stated that there <
options regarding accessory buildings
The first option is to require removal
buildings as a condition of approval.
to plat Lots 3 and 4 as one lot, and 1
would be to place a covenant on Lots
accessory building until such time that
3 or Lot 4 changes.
•e essentially three
on proposed Lot 4.
if the two accessory
rhe second option is
)e third alternative
and 4 allowing the
the ownership of Lot
MOTION by Commissioner Plufka, seconded by Commissioner
Wire to recommend approval of the Preliminary Plat, subject
to the conditions as listed, deleting Condition No. 7 and
substituting a new Condition No. 7 as follows: The Planning
Commission finds merit in granting the variance, provided
the accessory garage is retained only as long as there is
common ownership of Lots 3 and 4; the building must be
removed if ownership of one of the lots changes, and the
property owner does not bring Lot 4 into compliance. A
covenant to this effect shall be filed on Lots 3 and 4.
MOTION by Commissioner Marofsky, seconded by Commissioner
Plufka to amend the Motion by deleting Condition No. 8.
Commissioner Marofsky stated he does not believe a covenant
per Condition No. 8 is necessary, as a requirement by the
City, since any future request to divide the property would
require a Variance application by the property owner.
MOTION TO APPROVE
MOTION TO AMEND
Page 197
Planninq Commission Minutes
August 26, 1987
He further stated that future Commissions or Councils may
see merit to the variance, or the Ordinance may change
regarding lot frontage, for example.
Commissioner Plufka inquired if the covenant is filed on Lot
4, per Condition No. 8, would this prevent the owner of Lot
4 from seeking a lot division variance in the future?
Director Tremere stated it would not preclude the property
owner from seeking a variance from the ordinance, but he
would need to go through other civil procedures to lift the
covenant.
Roll Call Vote on Amendment to Main Motion. 5 Ayes. VOTE - AMENDMENT
Commissioner Plufka, Nay. MOTION CARRIED
Further discussion ensued regarding lot size and lot layout.
MOTION by Commissioner Marofsky seconded by Commissioner MOTION TO AMEND
Plufka to AMEND the main motion to change Condition No. 9 to
read: No other variances are granted or implied.
VOTE - AMENDMENT
Roll Call Vote on Amendment to Main Motion. 6 ayes. MOTION CARRIED
Roll Call Vote on Main Motion as once Amended. 6 Ayes. VOTE - MAIN MOTION
MOTION carried. MOTION CARRIED
Chairman Steigerwald recognized Public Works Director Fred 1988-1992 CAPITAL
Moore who explained the proposed program which had been IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM
reviewed on a preliminary basis by the City Council.
He explained that the first two years are firm, and as the
plan goes further out to the fifth year, the information is
based on projections.
Commissioner Wire inquired about streets and the purpose of
the infrastructure replacement fund. Fred Moore responded
and explained the fund noting that anticipated programs were
included. Commissioner Wire asked about the condition of
streets and Fred Moore responded that street condition is a
condition of aging as well as heavy traffic (on some), as
well as deterioration that occurs before resurfacing.
Chairman Steigerwald opened the public hearing; there being
no one present to speak, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Marofsky inquired about the water project and
availability on County Road 10 in the northeast portion of
the City. Fred Moore explained the timing that is
anticipated, and he noted that the sanitary sewer
interceptor had recently been completed. Fred Moore
Page 198
Planning Commission Minutes
August 26, 1987
responded to questions by Commissioner Wire regarding
inflows/infiltration. Fred Moore explained the corrective
work that had been planned but which would not commence
until some further study was completed.
MOTION by Commissioner Marofsky, seconded by Commissioner NOTION TO APPROVE
Plufka to recommend approval of the proposed Capital
Improvements Program for 1988-1992 as presented.
Vote. 6 ayes.
MOTION carried.
OTHER BUSINESS
In other business, Commissioner Marofsky proposed that the
Commission meet on Tuesday, September 22nd rather than on
September 23rd because of a religious holiday that week; it
was the concensus of the Commission to schedule the second
meeting of September on September 22nd.
Further discussion ensued regarding the review of the
Community Based Residential Facility report. It was the
concensus of the Commission to review the staff prepared
synopsis on September 9th prior to the regular meeting; the
session should start at 5:30 P.M. and include dinner.
An'WV IRNMFNT
There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at
9:45 P.M.
NOTION CARRIED
-_ S -
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
CONFERENCE/SEMINAR REPORT
DATE OF SEMINAR/CONFERENCE: AUGUST 20-21. 1987
LOCATION: CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
EMPLOYEES ATTENDING: RICHARD CARLOUIST AND STAN SCOFIELD
TOTAL COST: $850.00
PURPOSE/THEME OF SEMINAR/CONFERENCE: COMMUNITY RIGHT TO KNOW ACT AS IT
PERTAINS TO SUPERFUND AMENDMENT REAUTHORIZATION ACT (SARA) TITLE III
DESCRIBE BENEFIT TO EMPLOYEE/CITY: THE BENEFIT TO THE CITY IS TO REDUCE OR
MINIMIZE LIABILITY EXPOSURE FROM NOT FOLLOWING OR IGNORING THE PROVISIONS FOUND
IN SARA TITLE III AS IT PERTAINS TO PUBLIC SAFETY. IN PARTICULAR. THE PROVISIONS
DEALING WITH EMERGENCY PLANNING AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT'S PART IN MAINTAINING A
FILE OF MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS (MSDS) IS AN IMPORTANT REQUIREMENT SET FORTH
BY OSHA AND REGULATED ALSO BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA). AS YOU
CAN SEE BY THE WRITEUP SO FAR. THE MEETING THAT WE ATTENDED ON AUGUST 20-21 WAS
LITERALLY ALPHABET SOUP.
APPROXIMATELY 80% OF THE ALMOST 500 PARTICIPANTS ATTENDING WERE REPRESENTATIVES
OF PRIVATE INDUSTRY. THESE PERSONS REPRESENTED INDUSTRIES THAT EITHER MANUFAC-
TURE OR IMPORT HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ARE THE IMPORTANT FIRST COG IN THE SARA TITLE
III ACT. THIS IS ESPECIALLY TRUE IN RELATIONSHIP TO THE COMMUNITY RIGHT TO KNOW
ACT PORTION OF TITLE 111. IT IS HOPED THAT THE COMMUNITY RIGHT TO KNOW PROVI-
SIONS OF TITLE III WILL HELP TO INCREASE THE PUBLIC'S KNOWLEDGE AND ACCESS TO
INFORMATION ON THE PRESENCE OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS IN THEIR COMMUNITY, AND
RELEASES OF THESE CHEMICALS INTO THE ENVIRONMENT. THERE ARE CERTAIN CRITICAL
DATES THAT INDUSTRY HAS TO FOLLOW, AND THEY ARE AS FOLLOWS:
STARTING OCTOBER 17, 1987, THE MSDS LIST COMING FROM INDUSTRIES IN PLYMOUTH
MUST SUBMIT'TO OUR LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT A COMPLETE LISTING OF HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS THAT THEY HAVE IN THEIR FACILITIES.
BY MARCH 1, 1988, THOSE FACILITIES IN OUR COMMUNITY THAT DEAL IN HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS MUST SUBMIT THEIR EMERGENCY INVENTORY FORMS TO THE STATE COMMI-
SION. LOCAL COMMITTEE, AND LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT.
BY JULY 1, 1988, AND ANNUALLY THEREAFTER, COVERED FACILITIES IN OUR COMMU-
NITY. AS WELL AS TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES SUCH AS THE SOO LINE RAILROAD,
MUST SUBMIT INITIAL TOXIC CHEMICAL FORMS TO EPA AND DESIGNATED STATE
OFFICIALS.
THIS IS A COMPLICATED AREA TO SAY THE LEAST. ONE THING THAT APPEARED ENCOURAGING
TO ME HOWEVER WAS THE HEAVY EMPHASIS ON INDUSTRY AND PUBLIC SAFETY COMING
TOGETHER FOR THE BENEFIT OF ALL OUR CITIZENS. BROAD-BASED INVOLVEMENT WAS A
BENEFIT THAT WAS STRESSED IN ALL OF THE WORKSHOPS THAT WE ATTENDED. THERE IS NO
DOUBT THAT THE COMMUNICATIONS ABILITIES. I.E. COMPUTERS AND INTERFACES WITH OTHER
AGENCIES, IS GOING TO BE A NECESSARY PART OF THE FUTURE OF THE PLYMOUTH FIRE
DEPARTMENT.
Q Y J E F F E R Y B 0 S W A L L
Rt"FSSIA IS FOR THE
0 ne of the less widely
known problems that have
confronted the Kremlin in re-
cent years was what to do
about the hooded crows. The
crows were pests, to be sure,
but of an altogether different
class from your average pigeon
around your average monu-
ment or public building. For
one thing, hooded crows ap-
pear to have something that pi-
geons lack—a sense of fun—
and they had taken to amusing
themselves by skating on their
claws down the famous onion
domes of the cathedrals within
the Kremlin walls. For another
thing, many of the domes are
covered with a very special
roofing material—gold leaf—
which was coming oft' in long
expensive slivers the width of a
crow's toenail.
And, for a third thing, many
Muscovites arc fond of the
crows. They like to feed them.
It wasn't going to contribute to
the contentment of the popu-
lace for government officials to
be seen shooting the people's
crows. Besides, it wouldn't
solve the problem, because
new crows would soon arrive
to fill any vacancies on the
domes. So the keepers of the
Kremlin turned for advice to
the All -Union Research Insti-
tute for Nature Conservation.
One of the scientists there,
Aleksandr Sorokin, thought
bioacoustics might provide an
answer.
Bioacoustics is the study
of wildlife sounds. Its most
common practical application,
at airports and other places
where it's in the urgent public
interest 10 persuade flocks of
birds to go—and stay—away,
BIRD
is the playing of greatly ampli-
fied recordings of alarm calls.
But crows are among the most
intelligent birds; Sorokin knew
they would soon cease fleeing
from a recorded "wolf' if no
wolf was ever produced to give
substance to the cry. In this
case the wolves were salter fal-
cons and goshawks, but it still
wasn't a matter of simply
broadcasting the hooded crow
call for "Here comes a falcon!"
and then releasing one. Crows
don't necessarily flee from fal-
cons; they often mob them.
Greater subtlety was needed.
The meanings of several
calls in the crows' vocabulary
were already known
to Sorokin, and he
selected the one
that translates
roughly as "I've
been caught by
a falcon. Please
mob it until it lets me go." He
played this from a roof of the
Kremlin, and when the crows
mobbed the loudspeaker, a fal-
coner on the ground below re-
leased a falcon, which rose
above the crows and then at-
tacked. That is, the falcon
wasn't on a ledge somewhere
straddling a hapless crow but,
unnervingly, was diving from
above. After experiencing this
a few times, the crows, unable
to come to terms with the con-
cept of an invisible, lying com-
rade—and a dangerous one at
that, a veritable corvid psycho-
path—departed for saner parts
of Moscow. Inevitably some
still straggle back, but the fal-
con routine is repeated twice a
week, and for all practical pur-
poses the Kremlin is now
crowless.
Whether they're keeping
crows off the Kremlin domes
or making hit bird song
records, Soviet bioacousticians
have their country's ear
Although the West has
solved similar problems in sim-
ilar ways—certainly scaring
birds off runways has become
standard practice—few coun-
tries can match the Soviet
Union for the breadth and so-
phistication of its bioacoustics,
applied and pure, and none has
taken it in quite the same di-
rections. And it's with birds
that they've gone the farthest,
though they haven't neglected
mammals, fish, and insects.
In at least one instance, the
Soviets have gone so far as to
take bird song completely off
Listening to
wildlife tapes on
long missions
makes cosmonauts
feel more at
home and spares
them the dreaded
"cosmic silence"
the planet. As an extension
of their practice of using bio-
acoustics as therapy—to soothe
mental patients, convales-
cents, hospitalized children—
the sounds of birds, falling
rain, and rustling leaves have
been radioed to cosmonauts on
long missions to help them feel
a little less out of their element.
A report on Vladimir Dzhani-
bekov and Viktor Savinykh's
three -and -a -half -month stay
aboard Salyut 7 in 1985 said:
8o Di S(:oVEc . ,.,A-CiI (; i,
"It is these sounds, so custom-
ary to the ear on earth, sounds
that we may not even notice in
the hustle and bustle of daily
life, that help cosmonauts in
orbit to overcome fatigue."
Referring to the dreaded "cos-
mic silence," the report goes
on to recommend wildlife
tape -recordings as a way of re-
ducing homesickness in the
permanently manned space
stations the U.S.S.R. hopes to
launch.
It's no more surprising that
the Soviets should play natural
sounds to their spacemen than
that Americans should pipe
sports scores or college alma
maters to theirs. Ever since
there have been records, bird
song discs have been a staple of
the Russian phonograph -own-
er's library and of Russian ra-
dio. In fact, the world's first
bird song record—ofa nightin-
gale—was made in that part of
the world, and predates the
Russian Revolution. It was also
the world's first bird song rec-
ord. The disc, which was ini-
tially released in Germany
in 1910, was simultaneously
pressed in Riga, Latvia, now a
partof the U.S.S.R. Sincethen,
more than a hundred wildlife
recordings have been produced
in the Soviet Union—some are
still manufactured in Riga,
others in Moscow and Lenin-
grad—and in 1986 the num-
ber of records sold there was
probably more than 250,000.
(America didn't even produce
its first bird song disc until
1933, and though more than a
hundred have come out since
then, none has ever sold more
than 250,000 copies.)
The best selling wildlife rec-
ords ever made anywhere are
in the Soviet series The Voices
of Birds in Nature, the first of
which was cut in Moscow in
1960 and is still on the market.
More than three million copies
of the five -disc series have been
sold. Its creator, Boris Veprint-
sev, the Soviet Union'sgreatest
Getting rid of birds at airports is so
important to the Soviets that they've got
a term for it: aviation ornithology
wildlife sound recordist, is now
engaged in the most ambitious
recording project ever under-
taken, The Birds of the
U.S.S.R.: A Sound Guide.
When this encyclopaedia of
bird song is finished—the year
2000 isthegoal—it will present
the voices of 750 species on 25
LPs. Veprintsev got the first
three discs of his avian lexicon
out in time for the Eighteenth
International Ornithological
Congress, which was held in
Moscow in 1982, and for the
first time attendees from the
West were able to hear (and
buy, for about $1 apiece) rec-
ords of such species endemic to
the Soviet Union as the spoon
billed sandpiper, a delightful
little Arctic shore bird that per-
forms a song -flight, during
which it rises high in the air and
utters a rhythmical buzzing
sound; the rufous -necked stint,
a diminutive shore bird that
hangs in the air like a skylark
and for ten minutes at a time
pours forth a trilling mating
song; and the little curlew,
which sings not only with its
vocal chords but also with its
body, diving through the sky in
such a way that the wind in its
feathers creates a sound remi-
niscent of a jet's whine. This
curlew, the Asiatic cousin of
North America's near -extinct
Eskimo curlew, is so rare that it
has been recorded only once,
during a special expedition led
by Veprintsev to remotest Ya-
kutia in northeastern Siberia.
Veprintsev and his colleagues
also came back with the first
photographs and film of the
bird, and they wrote a scientific
account of the journey that was
translated into English and
published in Ibis.
But recording bird sounds
isn't Veprintsev's main
job. Although he's scientific
curator of the U.S.S.R. Acade-
my of Sciences' Library of
Wildlife Sounds, is the Soviet
Union's leading creator of
popular records of nature's
choruses, and in 1985 celebrat-
ed a quarter-century of track-
ing down, taping, archiving,
analyzing, and using the reper-
tories of wild creatures, he is,
for the great majority of his
time, a leading researcher at
the Academy's Institute of
Biological Physics, where he
studies the mechanics of nerve
cells. He's internationally
known for his work in genome
conservation, which involves
the long-term preservation by
deep freezing of germ cells,
embryos, and gonads for the
reconstruction of extinct spe-
cies, should science develop
the means to do it.
Generally, though, bio -
acousticians tend to be special-
ists in the one animal species
they're taping; this is particu-
larly true among those doing
non -applied science. Sorokin
was able to outwit the Kremlin
crows because another Soviet
ornithologist had done enough
research on crow language to
produce a glossary of their calls,
and it's in this sort of investiga-
tion that the Soviets shine.
Just how meticulously they
examine bird song is illus-
trated by Mariya Zablotskaya's
work on the common redpoll,
a brownish, scarlet -capped
finch that breeds across the
northern breadth of the Soviet
Union (not to mention the
northern breadth of North
America) and has one of the
most complex repertories in
bird-dom. Using voice prints
taken from her tapes and her
observations of the circum-
stances under which she re -
Ever since
there have been
records, bird
song discs have
been a staple of
private collections
in Russia
corded the sounds, she has
been able to define—almost as
if she were writing a phrase
book for foreign travelers—all
25 of the bird's utterances -22
calls and three kinds of song.
She can discern, for example,
when a redpoll is telling its
chick to crouch down in the
nest and be still, or that an ene-
my is approaching from the
ground or the sky. She has dis-
covered that six calls are
uniquely female utterances,
four are male, and nine are
common to both sexes. The
rest of the calls are voiced only
by chicks and fledglings.
Clearly, communication by
sound must be of considerable
importance in redpoll life for
such a sophisticated language
to have evolved. How can the
Daurian redstart get away with
a vocabularyof nine sounds, for
example, when the redpoll
needs 25? The answer may lie
in the redstart's more colorful
Plumage: much of its "commu-
nication," like flashing its red
tail to attract a mate, is visual.
The two species—a finch and a
thrush—must have rathersimi-
lar communicatory needs, but
their separate evolutionary
paths have led to different
modes of expression.
Ayoung Lithuanian orni-
thologist, Pranas Mier-
zauskas, who's working on his
doctorate in zoology, has taped
the sounds of most of the gull
species that nest in the Soviet
Union. At home on the Baltic
coast he has recorded the
voices of the great black -
backed gull, the black -headed
gull, the herring gull, and the
mew gull. He traveled north of
the Arctic Circle to the White
Sea to capture the caterwaul-
ings of the black -legged kitti-
wake gull. For the slender -
billed gull he went south, to the
Black Sea. He recorded the
brown -headed gull at its only
nesting location outside Chi-
na—in Tadzhikistan's Pamir
Mountains. It remains for him
to record the rosy gull at its
summer home on the Kolima
delta in extreme northeastern
Siberia, the red -legged kitti-
wake gull on the Soviet Pacific
coast opposite Alaska, and, in
what will be his crowning
achievement, the relict gull,
which nests on the shores of
Lake Alakol, on the Soviet bor-
der with the Chinese auton-
omous region of Sinkiang -
Uighur. This gull wasn't dis-
covered until 1968, and, as one
would expect, much about it
remains to be learned.
Research on gull calls is
one aspect of bioacoustics that
has immediate application, be -
DISCOVER • MARCH • 1987 81
Mierzauskas has
taped the brown -
headed gull at its
only nesting place
outside China—in
Tadzhikistan's
Pamir Mountains
cause gulls are a common air-
port hazard. Soviet sophistica-
tion in clearing flocks off run-
ways has risen several levels
since Soviet gulls, crows, and
starlings first heard tapes of
their own alarm calls at the air-
port in Tallinn, Estonia in
1969. It was immediately clear
that, if the technique was ever
going to become fully reliable,
refinements were necessary.
This meant accepting that
birds' vocabularies, motives,
and behavior could be com-
plex (and that bioacoustics
wasn't always the only answer
to scaring birds off: their re-
corded sounds are now often
complemented by blank gun-
shots as well as raptors). In-
deed, the research into bio -
acoustical means to rid air-
ports of birds became so
important in the U.S.S.R. that
the Soviets coined anew term to
cover it: aviation ornithology.
Among the facts uncovered
by this research is that it's bet-
ter to frighten airport pests—
starlings, crows, pigeons, shore
birds, and ducks—before they
land, because once they've set -
82 piSCov[e - MARCH - I9CS7
where they were born. Migra-
tory birds like starlings are
much easier for the man with
the portable loudspeaker to
scare away.
Bioacoustics isn't always
used to get rid of birds. Some-
times the object is to attract
them. Duck hunters have ap-
preciated this probably ever
since there were duck hunters,
but in modern bioacoustics the
object is not usually to kill the
tled an alarm call has to be birds but to count them, ring
much more urgent before them, or study them in other
they'll expend the energy to re- ways. Owls are particularly sus -
act. Birds were also found to ceptible. For example, the Ural
react more to calls coming owl was almost unknown in
from mobile, rather than sta- Latvia until local ornitholo-
tionary, speakers; trucks now gists, professional and amateur,
drive up and down beside run- compiled a bird atlas of the re -
ways blaring various birds' public. They divided Latvia
sounds for "Fly for your lives!" into ten -kilometer squares and
As the Kremlin case visited each square tosee which
showed, runways aren't the species were present. In the
only places where birds can be case of the Ural owl, the results
pests. Tapes of distress or were unexpected, to say the
alarm calls can be used as least: these owls responded to
acoustic scarecrows in fields of
grain, and some farms are im-
portant enough to have be-
come the object of a special
bioacoustical effort; vineyards
in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan
have thereby been freed of
common mynas and starlings,
respectively. Rooks, jackdaws,
and other noisy and messy
members of the crow family
that would like to roost in the
city center of Alma-Ata, where
the air is warmer than in the
surrounding countryside of
Soviet Central Asia, have also
been deterred with taped dis-
tress cries. The one bird that
has proved absolutely impossi-
ble to scare away—and bio -
acousticians have tried very
hard in Yerevan, the capital of
Armenia, where their number,
or more precisely the number
of their droppings, has made
life unpleasant for pedestrians
and damaging to automobile
paint jobs—is the house spar-
row. These birds are highly
sedentary, usually not ventur
ing more than a mile or so from
When Veprintsev
finally finishes his
encyclopaedia of
bird songs and
sounds, he'll have
the voices of 750
species on 25 LPs
tape recordings in more than 50
squares, ready to defend their
territories. Also in Latvia, orni-
thologists were able in 1975 to
lure into the open and ring
nearly a thousand long-eared
owls by playing recordings of a
small bird in distress that would
be easy prey for the raptors.The
owls that were ringed turned up
in East and West Germany,
France, and Britain, and gave
ornithologists a more detailed
understanding of the migration
of this species.
Bud voices are far and away
the main targets of the
sound hunters, but they aren't
the only ones. Steller's sea li-
ons, elk, alpine marmots, and
pikas (small, harelike mam-
mals) have all received atten-
tion from Soviet students of
their languages, as have some
insects, whose taped stridula-
tions may in the future be used
in bioacoustical pest control.
E.V. Shishkova of the All -
Union Scientific Institute of
Fisheries and Hunting in Mos-
cow was thefirst Soviet scientist
to record fish in the wild when
in the early 1960s she taped
Black Sea drumfish vibrating
their swim bladders. The idea
was to help fishermen "talk"
them into nets. It didn't work.
Shishkova's theory is that
drumfish communicate at too
shorta range. Fish language was
iresnwater ctcnitds helped him
determine their phylogeny.
Still, the main use of bio-
acoustics remains repelling
birds from runways, farms, and
even hives—to keep bee -eaters
from disrupting honey produc-
tion. This applied science must
be rooted in basic science, and
that's provided by researchers
workingeitherin the All -Union
institutes of the Academy of
Sciences or in one of the acade-
mies of the 15 republics, or on
university biology faculties.
Although they may be re-
search scientists in the strictest
sense, the guts of their work
isn't done in labs. They go
where the sounds are made.
For Veprintsev, that means
traveling into the wild in the
Soviet equivalent of a surplus
army Jeep. Vladimir Leono-
vich, the Soviet Union's top
amateur ornithologist and
leading egg collector, is invari-
ably with Veprintsev; he has
half a century of field work be-
hind him, and Veprintsev finds
Leonovich's experience to be
an indispensable resource.
Leonovich car-
ries binoculars; Veprint-
sev, a parabolic dish one meter
across, which concentrates the
bird cry, toad peep, or mammal
grunt into the microphone in
its center. Slung over Veprint-
sev's shoulder is a 15 -pound
Swiss -made battery -powered
tape recorder. The two men are
a perfect team and have
worked and camped together
for two or three months every
spring and summer, save one,
since 1974. They've tramped
the shores of the White Sea in
the north, the Black Sea in the
south, and the Bering Sea in
the east. They've climbed the
mountains of the Caucasus and
Turkestan, and traversed the
Black Sand and the Red Sand
deserts. At each summer's end
Veprintsev adds a dozen to 20
new species to his archive. The
collection is housed in Pus -
chino -on -Oka, a new "sci-
ence" town, two hours' drive.
from Moscow. There the tapes
are played back, timed, la-
beled, and carefully stored.
A Soviet coast
guard icebreaker
rescued an ice-
bound pod of
beluga whales by
playing classical
music to them
Scientists from all over the
world come to listen to them or
request copies or voice prints.
Veprintsev edits the material
for his great recorded work,
while his colleagues catalogue
the new material.
The list of Soviet bioacous-
tical achievements is lengthy.
For example, a young Moscow
zoologist, Aleksandr Tikho-
nov, won the Leninist Komso-
mol Prize for reducing by sev-
eral days the incubation period
of chicken eggs in massive in-
cubators: he repeatedly played
tapes of the clicks made by un-
hatched chicks. He also syn-
chronized the hatching times
of the eggs in the incubator, re-
ducing their spread from 24
hours to 30 minutes, by playing
a mother hen's cackling cry.
This saved further valuable in-
cubator time.
Why would a nation take
such a relatively recondite sub-
ject as bird language and carry
it so far? Perhaps the answer is
that there's something in the
character of the Russian peo-
ple that gives them a fascina-
tion with the voices of nature.
When questioned about this,
Soviet bioacousticians say it
has to do with peasant origins,
with a love of the soil of Mother
Russia, with the gathering of
wild mushrooms (still a ritual
even for many townspeople),
with the northward return of
the starlings as the heralds of
spring, and with the appear-
ance of the first snowdrops
pushing up through the mantle
of white in the woods. The
singing of birds, the trilling of
insects, the croaking of frogs,
and the howling of wolves are
all part of nature's romance.
Indeed, the U.S.S.R. may be
the only country where a bird
was discovered on the basis of its
song. Some individuals of a cer-
tain species of leaf warbler on
Sakhalin Island seemed to be
singing the wrong song—an
anomaly that attracted Veprint-
sev and Leonovich's attention.
When they captured one of
these eccentric singers and took
a close look at it, they confirmed
it as a new species of the genus
Phylloscopus. It has yet to be
given its official name.
And then the Soviet Union is
the country whose coast guard
broke though an ice jam to res-
cue a pod of beluga whales—
those highly acoustical animals
also known as sea canaries—
and led them to freedom, after
some trial and error, by playing
a recording of a piece of classi-
cal music from the deck of the
icebreaker. C
DISCOVER • MARCI1 - 1987 83
THE MINNESOTA CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN PLANNING ASSOCIATION
AND
THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL �R
PRESENT
DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES: WHO PAYS FOR DEVELOPMENT?
FEATURING JAMES DUNCAN, PRESIDENT -
NATIONAL AMERICAN PLANNING ASSOCIATION
Friday, October 2, 1987
11:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Canterbury Inn
1244 Canterbury Road
Shakopee, MN
(Canterbury Inn is located one mile south of Hwy. 101 on Co. Rd. 83.)
Phone: (612) 445.3644
SPEAKERS:
David Sellergren, Larkin, Hoffman, Daly, Lindgren, Ltd.
Mr. Sellergren will examine the legal definition of impact fees, legislative and local ordinance requirements, and
the effect of recent court cases on implementing a system of impact fees.
James Duncan, President, lames Duncan & Associates and President of National APA
Mr. Duncan will discuss how to develop a reasonable and legally -defensible system of impact fees. Mr. Duncan
was involved in the development and implementation of an impact fee system in Florida. Also covered will be
methodologies for calculating impact fees and the politics of impact fees, from both the public and private
sector perspectives.
Stewart Stender, Trammell Crow Co.
Mr. Stender specializes in suburban office development in the metropolitan area. He will discuss impact fees
from the development industry's perspective, exploring such issues as whether impact fees are a fee or a tax and
whether they act as an incentive or disincentive to development.
COST (INCLUDES LUNCH): APA Members $10 if received by September 25, 1987
$15 if received after September 25, but no later than September 30
Non -Members $15 if received by September 25, 1987
$20 if received after September 25, but no later than September 30
PLEASE JOIN US AFTER THE MEETING FOR AN EVENING AT THE RACES AT CANTERBURY DOWNS!!!!!! RACES START AT 4:00
PM. FREE PARKING WILL BE PROVIDED AT THE CANTERBURY INN. A FREE SHUTTLE BUS WILL RUN BETWEEN THE INN AND
RACETRACK EVERY HALF HOUR.
Mail to: Minnesota APA
c/o Dean Johnson
City of Rosemount
2875 - 145th Street W.
Rosemount, MN 55068 (Checks should be made payable to Minnesota Chapter APA.)
— Yes, I will attend. Enclosed is my payment of: $10 APA Member, on or before September 25, 1987
$15 APA Member, after September 25, but before September 30
$15 Non -.Member, on or before September 25, 1987
$20 Non -Member, after September 25, but before September 30
— j Yes, I will be going to Canterbury Downs. No, I will not be going to Canterbury Downs.
NAME
CITY/ORGANIZATION TELEPHONE
September 1, 1987
Fk
Dear Realtor:
e
CITY OF
PLYMOUTH+
The City of Plymouth's Zoning Ordinance very specifically addresses the
placement and size of signage. City staff members have noted a number of
violations of this ordinance, particularly by real estate agents who are
advertising open houses and homes for sale. I hope that by making area
realtors aware of these regulations, the City and realtors can be saved the
costs of enforcement.
To aid us in this endeavor, please make your agents aware that there are
regulations governing the use and placement of signs. The following are key
items relative to real estate signs.
- Signs promoting the sale, rent or lease of real estate -- including open
houses -- may only be located on the property which is for sale.
- These signs must be less than 8 square feet.
- These signs do not require a permit.
- Signs may not be placed on public right-of-ways, utility poles, traffic
lights, traffic signs or trees. Signs in violation may be confiscated.
- Signs must be removed their purpose has been fulfilled.
- Signs may not -obstruct windows, doors, fire escapes, stairways or other
building openings.
- Off-site temporary signs which give directions to a site under development
must be located at least 200 feet from any other sign. The only exception
Is if the sign is grouped with other temporary directional signs. The
total surface area of all grouped signs may not exceed 32 square feet.
This does not include real estate and open house signs which are covered
above, and which must be on the subject property.
- These and other temporary development announcement signs do require
permits.
(continued on other side)
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
Realtors
September 1, 1987
Page 2
Our staff is available to answer any questions you or your agents may have
regarding "For Sale" and "Open House" signs, as well as questions relating
to other types of signs. Please call Building Official doe Ryan or me at
559-2800 with your comments or inquiries about this notice.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Scerely,
Tre
Director of Planning
& Community Development
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P L Y M O U T H
2705 ANNAPOLIS LANE • MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA • 55441 612/553-1600
August 22, 1987
Chief,
Plymouth Police Department
City Center
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Chief,
I would like to compliment you and your department on the excellent
response and service your officers provide for our hotel.
A couple of weeks ago, Officer Franz responded to a false alarm
set by a careless visitor to the hotel and before the night was
over, had met with and talked to several young guests who pointed
out the instigator. That aside, his manner in talking to the young
people was calm but persistent. He received answers for his questions
and yet maintained the confidence of those involved. A special skill
as I view it.
Last night, we had a chlorine odor problem. The officers who came
on the scene were skilled in locating appropriate doors for use by
the fire department, and in offering assistance to the vacating guests.
Fortunately, guests in the rooms were not affected. One officer
suggested to a pregnant visitor that she wait a while before returning
to the lounge area. She listened and decided to go home.
These incidents might appear small to your officers who daily answer
more challenging and potentially dangerous situations. To us, at the
Quality Inn, you are our life line no matter how petty our calls to
you might turn out. We can't afford to take any risks that would, in
any way, injure a guest. Business aside, we give a damn, and I know
you do! But, giving a damn isn't enough. Caring is more important,
and I find your officers always bring that along with their professionalism.
Thank you for being our neighbor!
Sincerely,
T. D. McAnald
Controller
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: August 31, 1987
TO: dames G. Willis, City Manager
FROM: Bob Zitur, Council Member
SUBJECT
Yesterday, I met a gentleman. He lives on the corner of 56th and
Sycamore Lane. He was so enthusiastic about some of our staff.
Namely, the women at the counter, and Chris Van Hauer and Scott in the
Building Division. They certainly assisted him with the addition to
his house. It is refreshing to hear such favorable comments,
especially after some of the "blasts" that we all get.
BZ:jm
Craig Shaver
District 45A
Hennepin County
Committees:
Environment and Natural Resources
General Legislation and Veterans Affairs
Taxes
Dear Friends,
rC
Minnesota _77 �-
House of
Representatives
David M. Jennings. Speaker
LEGISLATIVE REPORT, SUMMER 1987
The dust has settled on the 1987 legislative session. It certainly ranks as the
worst since I was elected in 1982. Coming on the heels of the considerable
progress achieved during the last term, it makes me realize how fleeting success
can be.
Taxes
Last session, taxes were cut approximately $1 billion. This session, taxes were
increased $1.13 billion, the largest tax increase in Minnesota history. The $1.13
billion tax increase amounts to $275 for every man, woman and child in Minnesota.
The largest tax increases occur in property and sales tax.
INCOME TAX - Some good and some bad took place in this area. On the positive
side, the state tax "rates" were reduced to 6 and 8 percent, the state adopted the
definition of federal taxable income as the state's basic tax base and for many,
the state income form will be much easier to fill out. On the negative side, an
additional surtax is added to single filers earning over $43,150 and joint filers
earning over $71,900. A permanent "trigger" tax is added if the budget reserve is
below $150 million in November 1988, and income tax bracket "indexing" has been
suspended until 1991. Minnesota will remain 5th highest in the nation in income
tax burden.
SALES TAX - Up, up and away! I predict this will increasingly become the "tax of
choice" for future legislatures as they scramble for additional sources of
revenue. Tne state's 6 percent sales tax was extended to long distance interstate
phone calls, state government purchases, non-prescription drugs, and services such
as laundry and dry cleaning, parking, security, building cleaning and maintenance
amongst other items. Those considered this year but not included, such as legal
and accounting services, will almost certainly be visited again.
CORPORATE TAX - Almost all bad news. The newest wrinkle in the Minnesota tax code
is the alternative minimum tax (AMT). This is a tax on businesses not making
money and is based on corporate property, payroll and sales. Leave it to those
great minds in charge of the Tax Committees - now we tax trying to do business in
Minnesota. In corporate tar, burden, Minnesota moves from 11th highest in the
nation in 1985 to about 5th highest.
- continued -
Reply to: ❑ 331 State Office Building, St. Paul, Minnesota 55155
O P.O. Box 61, Wayzata, Minnesota 55391
NOT PRINTED AT GOVERNMENT EXPENSE
.4600.'
Legislative Report
Page Two
PROPERTY TAX - Big changes but not much relief for suburbanites. Minnesota's
property tax system, with over 60 classes, has been a national embarrassment. In
1989 there will be five classifications, a big step in the right direction.
Unfortunately, liberals in control of the Tax Committee think reform should be
expensive. The average home in the western suburbs will have an increase in
property taxes of 10 percent in 1988. For many homes, the increases will be
significantly larger. Worse yet, taxes on commercial and industrial property,
already the highest in the country, will go up over 13 percent.
The Budget
The state's budget for 1988-89 is set at $11.4 billion - a whopping $1 billion or
9.6 percent increase from the current biennium. Liberals in control of the House
and Senate refuse to make any choices or cuts and simply pile on more of the same.
Current spending amounts to $2,780 for every man, woman and child in the state.
The late Everett Dirkson, Republican leader of the Senate in the 1950s and 1960s
used,to say "A billion dollars here, a billion dollars there - it adds up to real
money after while." It is a funny line until you realize it comes out of your
hard-earned income.
Education
This session was a disaster for our schools. The liberals in control of the House
and Senate significantly cut the amount of state aid going to our schools. State
aid per pupil in the Hopkins School District was cut $464, cut $221 in the
Minnetonka School District and cut $287 in the Wayzata School District. Worse
yet, a portion of the local money raised from increased property taxes will go to
districts other than our own in a misguided attempt to achieve "equity."
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LEGISLATIVE PAY RAISE - I served on the Compensation Council last fall. It
rejected my proposal for salary increases at the rate of inflation, minus 1
percent. Instead, it recommended massive, double-digit increases. Liberals in
the House and Senate increased legislative salaries to $26,651 in 1990 and the
Governor's to $104,867. I opposed.
GREATER'MINNESOTA BILL - A disasterous pork barrel piece of legislation. Attempts
by some of us to try and get reasonable financial controls on the new "authority"
were rejected on straight party line votes. I opposed.
MANDATORY ETHANOL FUEL CONTENT - Would have required all unleaded gasoline to
contain a set percentage of ethanol. Fortunately, it was amended in the Senate to
become a purely promotional item. I opposed.
PIPELINE SAFETY - Creates an office of Pipeline Safety within the Department of
Public Safety, establishes a minimum local pipeline setback criteria and requires
emergency response plans by county and state officials. I supported.
Legislative Report
Page Three
REINVEST IN MINNESOTA BILL - Important conservation legislation which sets aside
erodible land, improves wildlife habitat and expands fishing opportunities. I
supported.
CAPITAL BONDING BILL - Usually the legislature doesn't work on a bonding bill
until the second year of the biennium. However, pork barrel politics lives and
thrives in the Perpich administration. Not only did we pass a bonding bill, it is
the largest in state history - $467 million. It is a radical departure from past
practice and a big mistake. I opposed.
65 MILE PER HOUR SPEED LIMIT - Minnesotans can now legally drive 65 m.p.h. on
rural interstates. This simply recognizes current practice and should be extended
to other highways. I supported.
SIX YEAR LICENSE PLATES - In the past, Minnesotans have had license plates for the
lifetime of a car. It worked well and I saw no reason to change. Unfortunately,
others did not agree. I opposed.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you have questions or need additional information on other matters before the
legislature, please call.
In spite of the frustrations, I want you to know what a privilege it is for me to
represent our district, 45A, in the legislature. I am grateful for your help and
support.
Sincerely,
Craig Sh ver
State Representative
District 45A
P.S. Please share this report with others as not all residents received one.
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: September 3, 1987
TO: dames G. Willis, City Manager
FROM: Bob Zitur, Councilmember
SUBJECT
Last night teff Rohling, 4855 Oakview Lane, 553-0807, called extremely
distressed at the traffic situation on his street. I decided to cancel
a meeting I was going to and went over there where I heard that people
were shouting at the cars and one even had put out red cones because of
the extra traffic generated by the C.R. 9 and West Medicine Lake Road
closings. After the distress call, I called Dick and he said to tell
the residents to dial 911 and that they and I should contact Lt. Paulson
about the situation in the morning. I have done this. Mr. Rohling also
wanted signage and/or stop signs in the area and I told him to contact
Fred Moore about this. I also put in a call to Fred this morning to
apraise him of the situation but he was in a meeting.
Bill Ramsey, who lives across the street, had previously told me about
speeding and the problem in the area. I told Dick about it. According
to Dick, the whole area has been receiving the police watch. Last
night, while I was there, an officer had arrived because a resident had
dialed 911 and he also discussed the situation with Mr. Rohling. Please
inform Fred of the situation if he doesn't get a chance to call me. I
understand that in another location in the City, people were shouting at
the cars.
It's going to be a long 36 day period!
cc: Councilmembers
Super Valu Stores, I nc.
Corporate Offices
P.O. Box 990
Minneapolis, MN 55440
September 2, 1987
Mayor Virgil Schneider
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Mayor Schneider:
MICHAEL MULLIGAN
Vice President — Communications
Telephone 612/828-4441
=- � �
I am writing to you to urge the city of Plymouth to take the necessary steps
to proceed with the development of the plans outlined in the city's 1983
Comprehensive Thoroughfare Guide Plan which called for the extension of Xenium
Lane to Vinewood Lane, which would then, in turn, intersect with County Road
9. I and other citizens of the Heritage Estates neighborhood are deeply
concerned that this development will not occur within the originally planned
timeframe.
As we understand it, litigation involving the owners of the land where the
roads are to be extended makes it probable that the intended development of
the Xenium/Vinewood extension may not take place for several years. Our
concern arises from the fact that the traffic for which the Xenium/Vinewood
road was intended to handle will now likely be diverted to 34th Avenue North
as a route to reach County Road 9. Our concern is heightened by the imminent
increase in traffic that will result from both the widening of County Road 9
and the increasing work population along Xenium Lane.
Neither 34th Avenue nor the Heritage Estates neighborhood are in a position to
handle this traffic diversion. We believe that significant danger to small
children would exist as a result of a heavy influx of drivers, largely
unfamiliar with the area and, in all likelihood, disdainful of neighborhood
speed limits, using the neighborhood as a thoroughfare.
We in the Heritage Estates area believe this is an urgent and potentially
serious problem that deserves your careful attention and prompt action by the
City of Plymouth. We are requesting that you proceed with the city's intended
plan through eminent domain rights. It will be significantly more convenient
for the increasing number of people who will need to access County Road 9 and
will remove a serious potential risk to the lives and well-being of the
numerous very small children who live along 34th Avenue.
Mayor Virgil Schneider
September 2, 1987
Page Two
I appreciate your attention to this matter and willingly volunteer my services
to assist you in any way necessary to affect a solution.
Very truly yours,
Mic a ulligan
13005 - 34th Avenue, No.
Plymouth, MN 55447
Home 553-0768; Work 828-4441
MM: cm
1439I