HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 11-09-1989CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
November 9, 1989
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UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS.....
1. TOWN MEETING -- Monday, November 13, 7:00 p.m. Town Meeting for
Area 1 residents in the City Council Chambers. A copy of the agenda
is attached. (M-1)
2. HOUSING & REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY -- The HRA meeting originally
scheduled for Thursday, November 16, at 6:30 p.m. has been
cancelled. (M-2)
3. PLYMOUTH DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL -- Wednesday, November 15, 7:30 A.M.
The Plymouth Development Council will meet in the City Council
Chambers. A copy of the meeting notice is attached. (M-8)
4. LEAGUE OF MINNESOTA CITIES LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE -- Thursday,
November 16. The League of Minnesota Cities' annual policy adoption
meeting at the Hotel Sofitel in Bloomington. Registration 8 a.m.,
sessions on environmental issues at 9:00 a.m., open meeting law at
9:45 a.m., and property tax legislative issues at 10:30 a.m.,
luncheon at 12 noon, concluding with the policy adoption session at
1:45 p.m. Meeting agenda is attached. (M-4)
5. EMPLOYEE HOLIDAY PARTY -- Employee Holiday Party, Friday, December 1
at the Sheraton Park Place in St. Louis Park. As a reminder, the
deadline for reservations is November 16. If you plan to attend,
contact Laurie or Judy.
6. MEETING CALENDARS -- Meeting calendars for November and December are
attached. M-6
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
November 9, 1989
Page 2
FOR YOUR INFORMATION....
1. BEACON HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - ARSON - I have received a report
from the Public Safety Department about a fire call at the Beacon
Heights School which occurred on Saturday, November 4. It appears
that a series of fires were set both within and outside of the
school. The fires were not serious and were promptly brought under
control by our Fire Department. It appears that the building has
been broken into and vandalized on more than one occasion and
further, that additional vandalism and/or arson may be anticipated.
I have alerted School Superintendent Landswerk to this situation in
order that he may become aware of the situation and the need to take
actions either to more appropriately secure the building or perhaps
have it demolished. I have also asked Blair Tremere to have
building inspectors visit the site to determine whether or not the
state of the former elementary school is such that it has reached a
point where the building should, as a matter of public safety, be
demolished. I will keep the Council informed on this matter.
2. ELECTIONS -- Attached is a memorandum from City Clerk Laurie
Rauenhorst reporting on the November 7 election. Voter turnout in
Plymouth was considerably higher than in past years with a 24
percent turnout, compared to 9 percent in 1987 city election.
Because of the School District 281 question and split precincts in
Plymouth, this election was difficult to administer in eight of our
precincts. Laurie's memo explains in detail the problems
encountered in these precincts. Overall, I believe the election and
the return reporting process were well organized and administered.
(I-2)
3. COMMUNICATIONS ACTIVITIES -- A report from Helen LaFave on
communication activities for September and October is attached.
(I-3)
4. TRANSIT INFORMATION UPDATE -- A "Transit Information Update" report
from the Regional Transit Board is attached. (I-4)
5. REVIEW OF SALE RESULTS OF G.O. WATER REVENUE BONDS AND IMPROVEMENT
BONDS -- Steve Apfelbacher of Ehlers and Associates has prepared the
attached recap of our November 6 bond sales. Also included is an
explanation of how favorable our rate is compared to bond sales for
Edina and Hennepin County which occurred on the same day. (I-5)
6. DIAL -A -RIDE RIDERSHIP REPORT -- Attached is a copy of the October
ridership statistics for the Dial -A -Ride service. (I-6)
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
November 9, 1989
Page 3
7. PLYMOUTH METROLINK - OCTOBER REPORT -- Shown below is a table for
October 1989 displaying our average daily ridership for the
commuter/reverse commuter service for each week. Also is a table on
the year to date average compared with the target to be achieved.
The "Total System" column includes transfer passengers. To compare
with previous years, the column "Without Transfers" should be used.
Actual ridership is reflected under the "With Transfers" column.
MONTHLY
PLYMOUTH METROLINK
DAILY RIDERSHIP AVERAGES BY WEEK BY SERVICE TYPE
OCTOBER 1989
YEAR TO DATE
RIDERSHIP AVERAGE
SERVICE TYPE
529
TARGET
413
% OVER/(UNDER)
TARGET
Total S stem
28%
Reverse
Without
With
Commuter
Commuter
Transfers
Transfers
Transfers
WEEK OF:
10/2 - 10/6
380
49
91
435
526
10/9 - 10/13
354
57
96
451
547
10/16 - 10/20
375
50
97
426
523
10/23 - 10/27
380
42
112
422
534
10/30 - 10/31
427
48
103
473
576
-----------------
1,916
-----------
246
----------
499
---------
2,207
---------
2,706
MONTH LONG
----------
AVERAGE
383
49
100
441
541
YEAR TO DATE
Item
Without
Transfers
With
Transfers
YEAR TO DATE
RIDERSHIP AVERAGE
414
529
TARGET
413
% OVER/(UNDER)
TARGET
+.02%
28%
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
November 9, 1989
Page 4
8. GRAND OPENING SIGNAGE - On November 2, David Sommerfeld stopped by
City Hall to express his concern about the City's zoning ordinance
sign regulations. Mr. Sommerfeld has leased space at the Ryan Water-
ford Plaza, 10100 6th Avenue North, to operate a dry cleaning estab-
lishment. He asked the landlord, Ryan Development, whether or not he
could conduct a grand opening sale, including signage. Ryan advised
him that one of the four events with signage allowed by ordinance had
taken place at this site. Upon speaking to Mike Kulczyk, Assistant
Building Official, he found that four events with signage had
previously taken place. Under the City's existing code, this shopping
center would not be eligible to any additional grand openings with
signage until 1990.
Mr. Sommerfeld believes that the existing ordinance with a maximum
of four events with signs per year represents a particular hardship
to large multi -tenant buildings which are treated as a single
property for the purposes of the ordinance. Mr. Sommerfeld's grand
opening would have been November 15 at the earliest, or during the
week of November 20. He is not barred from having a grand opening; he
cannot have external signs for it, however.
DAILY RIDERSHIP AVERAGES BY MONTH
FOR CALENDAR YEARS 1984 - 1989
Commuter/
Commuter/
Reverse
Commuter
Reverse Commuter
(Without Transfers)
(With Transfers)
MONTH:
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1989
January
330
307
351
429
433
496
---
February
310
292
350
394
426
461
---
March
307
311
338
397
418
467
---
April
301
295
354
365
408
405
---
May
295
298
332
350
392
388
564
June
276
314
349
358
409
362
525
July
277
297
328
345
361
356
515
August
266
292
328
345
377
376
534
September
275
322
354
348
396
383
495
October
276
312
384
365
430
441
541
November
271
311
396
398
437
December
265
320
412
391
409
----------
YEAR LONG
----------------------------------
------------------------
AVERAGE
287
306
356
374
408
414
529
8. GRAND OPENING SIGNAGE - On November 2, David Sommerfeld stopped by
City Hall to express his concern about the City's zoning ordinance
sign regulations. Mr. Sommerfeld has leased space at the Ryan Water-
ford Plaza, 10100 6th Avenue North, to operate a dry cleaning estab-
lishment. He asked the landlord, Ryan Development, whether or not he
could conduct a grand opening sale, including signage. Ryan advised
him that one of the four events with signage allowed by ordinance had
taken place at this site. Upon speaking to Mike Kulczyk, Assistant
Building Official, he found that four events with signage had
previously taken place. Under the City's existing code, this shopping
center would not be eligible to any additional grand openings with
signage until 1990.
Mr. Sommerfeld believes that the existing ordinance with a maximum
of four events with signs per year represents a particular hardship
to large multi -tenant buildings which are treated as a single
property for the purposes of the ordinance. Mr. Sommerfeld's grand
opening would have been November 15 at the earliest, or during the
week of November 20. He is not barred from having a grand opening; he
cannot have external signs for it, however.
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
November 9, 1989
Page 5
To my knowledge, this is the first complaint of this nature that we
have received and it is noteworthy that a tenant is raising the
concern, not the landlord who is familiar with the ordinance. As more
tenants move into this and other shopping centers, we may receive
more. The Council should determine whether or not it wishes to
consider revision of this ordinance. I advised Mr. Sommerfeld that I
would include this question in the November 9 Council Information Memo
to determine whether the Council wished to discuss the matter
further. If I receive no response from the Councilmembers, I will
assume that you are comfortable with the existing ordinance and
communicate the same to Mr. Sommerfeld. Otherwise, at Council option,
this item could be scheduled for further discussion at the November 20
forum, or for review by the Planning Commission. Amendments to the
ordinance require a hearing by the Planning Commission. I have
attached an excerpt from the existing zoning ordinance on this topic.
(I-8)
9. CORRESPONDENCE:
a. Letter to A. M. Clausnitzer, 10705 40th Avenue North, from Blair
Tremere, concerning the Metropolitan Waste Control Commission's
finding of not requiring a Service Availability Charge for the
Favors -N -Flavors yogurt shop in the Oakwood Square Shopping
Center. (I -9a)
b. Letter from Michael Trossen, Trossen Wright & Associate
Architects, providing a revised project schedule for Fire
Station 1. (I -9b)
c. Letter from Ronald Ray, Advance Machine Company, to Dick
Carlquist, concerning the SARA TITLE II meeting of public safety
and Plymouth reporting businesses. (I -9c)
d. Letter from Charles Lenthe thanking Frank Boyles for his city
safety program presentation at the MPWA Public Works Maintenance
Program on October 30. (I -9d)
e. Letter of appreciation from Scott Harr, Assistant Public Safety
Director, City of Chanhassen, to Dick Carlquist, for assistance
with an animal control situation provided by Police Service
Supervisor Steve Correll, and Community Services Officers Warren
Kulesa and Phil Sykes (I -9e)
f. Letter to Laurie Hayes, Rider, Bennett, Egan & Arudel Law Firm,
from City Manager, conveying City documents relating to the
Chelsea Woods Homeonwers Association fire of November 27, 1986.
(I -9f)
g. Letter responding to teff and Debra Hodroff regarding their letter
of November 1 on the City's participation in holiday programs.
The Hodroff's November 1 letter is also attached. (I -9g)
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
November 9, 1989
Page 6
10. DEVELOPMENT SIGNAGE -- On Friday, November 17, one development
sign will be placed at Southwest Corner of Zachary Lane and Old
Rockford Road (Old County Road 9. Medicine Lake Lutheran Church
is proposing a rezoning, site plan, conditional use permit, and
variance. The rezoning is from FRD (Future Restricted Development
) District to R-lA (low Density Single Family Residential
District. The site plan and conditional use permit is for the
construction of a church together with a private school. The
conditional use permit is also to exceed the height limitations of
the R-lA District in order to have a steeple on the church as high
as 66 feet. The variance is to allow for only a portion of the
Ordinance required parking to be constructed at this time.
(89086)
This request will be heard by the Planning Commission at their
Wednesday, November 29, 1989 meeting.
James G. Willis
City Manager
0
TOWN MEETING AGENDA
AREA 1
November 13, 1989
7:00 p.m.
I. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
A. Streets
B. Sewer
C. Water
D. Buildings
II. PARKS
A. Neighborhood Parks
B. Trails
C. Community Center
III. DEVELOPMENT
A. Staged Growth Plan Amendments and Development Moratorium
B. Hennepin County purchase of Elwell Property
IV. PUBLIC SAFETY
A. Police/Fire Report
B. Police/Fire Alarm Permits
C. Neighborhood Watch Program
D. Animal Control
V. OTHER ITEMS
A. Public Transportation - Plymouth Metrolink/Dial-a-Ride
B. Local Government Cable Access Channel 37
C. Solid Waste Recycling Program
1A- l
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: November 1, 1989
TO: Plymouth Development Council
FROM: Bob Burger, President
SUBJECT NOVEMBER 15 DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL AGENDA
The next meeting of the Plymouth Development Council will be held on
Wednesday morning, November 15 at 7:30 a.m. in the Plymouth City Council
Chambers. The following items are scheduled for discussion. You may wish
to bring up other items as well:
I. Status of Automated Building Permit System Conversion - Joe Ryan
II. Sanitary Sewer REC and Water REC Fees - Joe Ryan
III. 1989 Erosion and Siltation Control Monitoring and Enforcement -
Fred Moore
IV. Status of 1990-1994 Capital Improvement Program Adoption - Fred
Moore
V. Comments on Update of City Comprehensive Plan and Development
Moritorium - Blair Tremere
VI. Implementation of Tree Preservation Policy - Blair Tremere,
Mark Peterson
VII. Other Business.
I hope to see you at the meeting. My phone number is 473-5507.
BB:kec
cc: James G. Willis, City Manager
Blair Tremere, Director of Planning & Community Development
Fred Moore, Director of Public Works
Joe Ryan, Building Official
Dick Carlquist, Public Safety Director
Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manager
S.F. 11/14/89
League of Minnesota Cities
October 20, 1989
183 University Ave. East
St. Paul, MN 55101-2526
(612) 227.5600 (FAX: 221-0986)
TO: Mayors, Managers, and Clerks
FROM: Donald A. Slater, Executive Director
xl-, �1,
OCT 2 51 1989
CITY 0, rod)UTII
A
RE: 1990 Proposed Legislative Policies and Priorities
I am very pleased to transmit to you a copy of the League of Minnesota
Cities' 1990 Proposed Legislative Policies and Priorities These
policies will be considered for final adoption by the membership at
the League's Policy Adoption Meeting on November 16, 1989, at the
Hotel Sofitel in Bloomington. An agenda and registration form are
attached for your information.
The League of Minnesota Cities owes a great debt to the dedicated city
officials who worked as members of the League's policy committees on
the 1990 legislative policies. They spent many hours developing this
policy document.
The Legislative Committee, which is comprised of the board of
directors and each policy committee chair, reviewed and approved the
committee's recommendations. The Legislative Committee sends the
1990 Proposed Policies and Priorities to the membership for their
consideration.
I strongly encourage your city to attend the Policy Adoption Meeting
on November 16. The meeting begins with sessions on environmental
issues (at 9:00 a.m.), open meeting law (at 9:45 a.m.), and property
tax legislative issues (at 10:30 a.m.). Come to hear first hand from
legislators what their plans will be for the 1990 session. The Policy
Adoption Meeting will conclude with the policy adoption session which
begins at 1:45 p.m.
To register for the Policy Adoption Meeting, please return the
attached registration form to the League of Minnesota Cities, c/o
Finance Department, 183 University Avenue East, St. Paul, MN 55101.
== OVER ==
�
League of Minnesota Cities :.
Policy Adoption Meeting <
Thursday, November 16, 1989
Hotel Sofitel, Minneapolis
8:00 a.m. Registration 12:00-1:45 p.m
9:00-9:45 a.m. Environmental issues
Commissioner Gerald Willet, Pollution Control
2:00-4:30 p.m.
Agcnc}'
Mike Robertson, Director, Office of Waste
Management
9:45-10:15 a.m. Open meeting law
Mari: Anfirinson, Counsel, Minnesota Newspaper
Association
Senator Randy Peterson
10:15-10:30 a.m. Break
10:30-11:45 a.m. Property' tax issues
Due to the uncertainty in the property tax area, the
League is unable to provide tentative speakers for the
property tax issues session. Our goal is to have the
chairs of the House and Senate Tax Committees.
* invited to sneak
November 16, 1989
Lunch -- Transportation issues
Commissioner Len Levine, DLpartment of
Transportation
Adoption of LNIC legislative policies
Opening remarks -- LMC )'resident Millic MacLeod,
Other business
Adjournment
LMC Policy Adoption Registration Form
City: Contact Person:
Hotel Sotiitel, Minneapolis
Telephone 4 _
A.C.
Name Title Address Zip Code
Registration per person: $25.00
Make checks payable and
MAIL TO: League of Minnesota Cities, 183 University Avenue East, St. Paul, MN 55101
Name
Representing
Address _
City
Mona Day Yev
A,rival 13.1,
Check in time 3:00 p.m
Housing reservation form
MAIL TO:
5601 W. 78th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55435 -3899
(612)835-1900
League of Minnesota Cities
Policy Adoption Meeting
November 16, 1989
To insure space/rate availability, please respond prior to
November 1, 1989.
Please specify: 65 + Tax Single (One Person)
65 + Tax Double (Two People)
_State Zip
I will arrive after 4:00 p.m. Please guarantee the reservation
with:
A iv.ITimr Month LAY Y°•' (Credit Card)
Depanw. o.i.
Check out time 12:00 noon Pltotic:
Number and Expiration Date
Councilmember, Moorhead
Adoption
of rules governing die policy adoption
meeting
Consideration
of proposed legislative policies and
priorities
1.
Development strategics
2.
Elections and ethics
3.
General legislation and personnel
4.
Land use, energy, environment, and
transportation
5.
Revenue sources
6.
Federal lcgislative
Other business
Adjournment
LMC Policy Adoption Registration Form
City: Contact Person:
Hotel Sotiitel, Minneapolis
Telephone 4 _
A.C.
Name Title Address Zip Code
Registration per person: $25.00
Make checks payable and
MAIL TO: League of Minnesota Cities, 183 University Avenue East, St. Paul, MN 55101
Name
Representing
Address _
City
Mona Day Yev
A,rival 13.1,
Check in time 3:00 p.m
Housing reservation form
MAIL TO:
5601 W. 78th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55435 -3899
(612)835-1900
League of Minnesota Cities
Policy Adoption Meeting
November 16, 1989
To insure space/rate availability, please respond prior to
November 1, 1989.
Please specify: 65 + Tax Single (One Person)
65 + Tax Double (Two People)
_State Zip
I will arrive after 4:00 p.m. Please guarantee the reservation
with:
A iv.ITimr Month LAY Y°•' (Credit Card)
Depanw. o.i.
Check out time 12:00 noon Pltotic:
Number and Expiration Date
League of Minnesota Cities
183 University Ave. East
St. Paul, MN 55101-2526
(612) 227-5600 (FAX: 221-0986)
LEAGUE OF MINNESOTA CITIES POLICY ADOPTION MEETING RULES
1. Registration.
V\-
Registration shall remain open from the previously announced opening
of conference registration until completion of policy adoption.
2.yoting Privileges
Only one delegate per city shall be permitted to vote on policy
proposals, priorities, or motions. Each current LMC member city
shall designate one official as delegate (and may select another city
official as an alternate) for voting purposes.
Only those officials with voting cards for their cities shall be
eligible to vote. Possession of the voting card of the city and the
signed voting card register shall be evidence that the holder of the
voting card is the city's delegate for purposes of voting.
3. Committee Reports
The chair or vice chair of each committee shall present the committee
report and move adoption of the policy statements. After adoption of
policy language, the chair or vice chair shall move adoption of
priority rankings.
The chair shall place on the agenda for discussion, a proposal to
make a substantive change in the language of a proposed policy,
change a priority, or to take a position which the appropriate policy
committee chair or representative states was not considered by the
committee.
The text of nonprocedural motions and amendments, other than changes
in policy priorities, must be submitted in writing to the chair prior
to debate.
4. Disputes
Disputes regarding eligibility to vote shall be referred to the LMC
General Counsel and may be appealed to the conference. Such reports
or appeals shall be a special order of business and may be taken up
at any time a new question (main motion) is in order.
5. Limits on Debate
Each speaker shall be limited to three minutes on any debatable
question. The chair may extend the debate limits in order to
consider an issue if numerous delegates request to be heard on the
issue.
== OVER ==
Policy Adoption Meeting Rules (cont'd)
5. Limits on Debate lcont'd
The chair may reduce the time allotted for debate in order to
complete policy adoption, but in no case shall the length of time
be reduced to less than three minutes per side.
6. Parliamentary Procedure
Precedence. The policy adoption process shall be governed by the
LMC Constitution, these rules, and Roberts Rules of Order, Revised.
The conference shall be its own judge of these rules and Roberts
Rules of Order.
Appeal of the Chair. Debate of the motion "appeal of the ruling of
the chair", rule #6 notwithstanding, shall be limited to two minutes
by the appealer and two minutes by the chair. Either may designate
another eligible voting delegate (or LMC officer or board member) to
speak in his/her place.
Changes. Motions to "rescind" and "reconsider" shall require a
two-thirds vote of delegates present and voting.
7. Number of "A" Priorities
A motion to change a proposed policy's priority to an "A" priority
must also propose another "A" proposed policy, within that same
section, to be reduced below an "A" priority. The final number of
"A" priority policies shall not exceed the number proposed to the
conference by the Legislative Committee.
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CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: November 9, 1989
TO: Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manager
FROM: Laurie Rauenhorst�ity Clerk
SUBJECT 1989 ELECTION
The following are observations following the 1989 Election:
1. There were several problems with the Hennepin County records
relative to the School District 281 boundaries. I have forwarded a
letter to Hennepin County and the School District asking that they
correct the errors so that if the City runs an election again for
the School District, we won't be faced with similar problems.
(Copies of letters attached.)
2. One precinct ran out of City ballots for approximately five minutes
- more were delivered to the precinct.
3. Two precincts ran out of School District ballots - more were
delivered to the precincts by the School District.
4. In Precinct 12 several voters were told to leave the polling place.
The voters were discussing candidates and issues at the voting
booths, which is clearly in violation of state law, and were asked
more than once to stop. When they would not, a judge told them they
would have to leave the precinct.
5. I received several complaints that judges would not explain
candidate positions or explain the District 281 question. The
judges legally can provide no information of this type, except to
read the ballot aloud to the voter and assist with marking the
ballot, if asked. I was pleased to hear that judges were strictly
following instructions by only pointing out the sample ballots.
6. This was a very difficult election for the judges and the staff
because of the District 281 question and split precincts in
Plymouth. No other city in 281 had this problem. In essence, the
judges had to determine for each voter entering the precinct: 1)
whether the voter was registered; 2) whether the voter was in the
correct precinct, and 3) whether the voter was in District 281.
After this determination was made, the voter was given a numbered
Voter Certificate with either a (1) or (2) at the top. This
Certificate, when handed to the ballot judge by the voter, indicated
whether the voter received (1) or (2) ballots. The ballots were
then deposited in separate ballot boxes as required by law.
Election Report
November 9, 1989
Page 2
The precinct was handled as though there were two separate elections
taking place in the same precinct. There were two sets of ballots,
voter certificates, and new registrations to count and Justify when
the polls were closed; thus, the longer than normal reporting time.
The first precinct arrived at the City Center with returns around
9:30 p.m. The last arrived at 12:30 a.m. I believe the District
281 ballot, double counting, and necessary justifications resulted
in at least a two hour delay in results.
7. To accommodate the problem of the split 281 precincts, I hired
election judges the week before the election to highlight the names
of all voters in 281 on the precinct lists. Several precinct
chairpersons told me this was an excellent method of identifying
those voters in a particular school district. Should the problem of
split precincts occur again, this method will be used.
I would be very concerned, however, if we had to run an election for
more than one school district at a time because we have some
precincts in three school districts. I suppose we would be looking
at highlighting the precinct lists in three different colors, with
three ballots, voter certificates, and new registrations to count
and justify. This would be confusing, inefficient, and possibly
unmanageable. The fear is that at some point we lose accuracy and
control of the process, which is the most critical thing in an
election. We will very likely be faced with this scenario in the
future with Uniform Election Day.
8. We received quite a few calls from residents who were upset because
they could not vote on the 281 question. These were individuals who
do not live in District 281, but their children attend school
there. They felt they should have been allowed to vote on the 281
question. Voters can only vote in the District they live in.
Also, a number of voters stated they received calls encouraging/
discouraging them to vote on the 281 question and directing them to
vote at the their normal school precinct. I contacted District 281
the day before the election when we started receiving these calls.
Voters thought they would have to go to two different locations to
vote separate ballots. The District said other "misinformation" was
being distributed and the designated callers for the district did
not provide this information. This may have caused some voter
confusion.
Z .211
Elections Report
November 9, 1989
Page 3
9. We had a 24% voter turnout which is very heavy for a Plymouth City
election. In 1987 we had a 9% city-wide turnout. We prepared for
this expected higher than normal turnout by hiring additional
election Judges and stocking additional ballots and supplies. We
received at least ten times the usual number of absentee ballots for
a local election.
10. I received several calls from residents commending election Judges
in various precincts for their helpful, professional service. I
also received compliments from two neighboring City Clerks who
visited several of our split precincts during the day. They are
trying to prepare for the situation when it occurs in their cities
and are using Plymouth as their model.
11. Returns reporting after the polls closed went well. The switchboard
remained open until 1:00 a.m. (one-half hour after the last precinct
reported in). We had one incoming extension which several of the
candidates used, with two outgoing public phones. The switchboard
answered questions from the public on the returns. Coffee and
cookies were served in the Council Chambers with a complete tally
board and Channel 37 monitor with vote totals. Within ten minutes
of each precinct arriving at the City Center, the vote totals were
updated on Channel 37.
Please let me know if you want me to respond to specific questions or
concerns.
November 7, 1989
CITU OF
Marge Christianson PLYMOUTH+
Election/Voter Registration Supervisor
Hennepin County Government Center
300 South 6th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55487
Dear Marge:
Thank you for your help with the November 7 election by providing precinct
lists, precinct finders, and master lists in such a timely manner. The
election went well considering the cumbersome process and confusion of dealing
with the split School District 281 precincts.
We encountered several problems related to the District 281 boundaries where
the precinct finder and precinct list showed certain addresses to be in
District 279, when they are, in fact, in District 281. On election day I used
our assessing records to determine the correct district for some voters after
they were turned away from the 49th Avenue area precinct. Several voters were
then allowed to vote this ballot.
Please check and correct the following situations:
1. Precinct finder shows: 14301 - 15099 41st Avenue as District 281 and
14701 - 17800 41st Avenue as District 284.
I believe the first entry should read: 14301 - 14699 to avoid the
overlapping addresses. Please thank Ellen for her help on election day on
this one.
2. Precinct finder shows: 4300 Fernbrook as District 284; should be 281.
3. Precinct finder shows: North side of 49th Avenue North from Saratoga Lane
to the cul-de-sac to the west (approximately 10200 - 10500) in District
279. This section of 49th Avenue North is south of Schmidt Lake Road, and
both sides are in District 281.
After we receive the precinct lists back and review them, we will forward to
Ellen the minor changes received by the election judges at the precincts.
Again, thanks for your assistance.
Sincerely,
4-ezl�_
Laurie Rauenhorst
City Clerk
cc: dames G. Willis, City Manager
School District 281
Sharon Reisinger, Voter Registration
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
November 8, 1989
Monica Campbell
10500 49th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55442
Dear Ms. Campbell:
Thank you for your call today to inform me of problems you encountered
attempting to vote on the School District 281 question on November 7. You
requested that I verify that you do, in fact, live within the School District
281 boundary and that a similar problem will not occur in the future.
Unfortunately, similar problems occurred to your neighbors living on -the north
side of 49th Avenue from Saratoga Lane to the cul-de-sac.
I learned of this problem at about 4:00 P.M. on election day when Larry
Geyerman called stating he had been allowed to vote a City ballot but not a
School District 281 ballot at his precinct. All election records generated by
Hennepin County both at the City Center and at the precinct indicated he lived
in District 279. I then contacted the School District 281 office and asked if
they could verify he lived in their district so that we could provide him with
a ballot. They were unable to verify that he was in their district and
suggested that the fudges would just have to use the information provided by
Hennepin County - He would not be able to vote.
I then checked the assessing records which clearly indicate that Mr. Geyerman
is in District 281. The precinct chairperson and I decided that even though
the County records indicated otherwise, we would allow him to vote because we
could prove that he lives in District 281. I'm not sure how many people were
denied the opportunity to vote on the 281 ballot, but Mr. Geyerman and several
others returned to the precinct and voted the District 281 ballot.
In response to your requests:
1. I have checked your address with the assessing division and can verify
that you are within School District 281.
2. I have forwarded a letter to Hennepin County and
requesting that they correct this situation for
Apparently the school district has never identified
and it only came to light now because the City was
for the district for the first time ever.
Please let me know if you have any further concerns.
Sincerely,
4LUri� Rauenhorst
City Clerk
School District 281
future elections.
this problem before
running the election
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
November 8, 1989
Larry Geyerman
10400 49th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55442
Dear Larry:
CIN OF
PLYMOUTFF
Thank you for your call on election day describing the problem you encountered
In attempting to vote on the School District 281 question. Because of your
persistence, you and four of your neighbors were able to return to the polls
and vote on the District 281 question.
The City's assessing records clearly show that properties on the north side of
49th Avenue from Saratoga to the cul-de-sac are in School District 281.
However, as you were told at the polls, all the Hennepin County election
records show these properties in District 279.
We attempted to correct the problem when you called. The precinct chairperson
and I decided that even though the County records indicated otherwise, we
would allow residents to vote the 281 ballot. I appreciate the effort you
made in encouraging your neighbors to return to the precinct to vote the
281 ballot.
I have forwarded a letter to Hennepin County and School District 281
requesting that they correct this situation for future elections.
Apparently the school district has never identified this problem before
and it only came to light now because the City was running the election
for the district for the first time ever.
Sincerely,
Laurie Rauenhorst
City Clerk
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH. MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
November 6, 1989
Martha Stebelton
Election Coordinator
Robbinsdale School District 281
4148 Winnetka Avenue North
New Hope, MN 55428
Dear Martha:
Administration of the November 7 election has gone well considering the
different voting systems and number of cities you had to coordinate with. You
have been very helpful in resolving problems and questions that have arisen.
Previously you and I agreed to the following:
1. Each jurisdiction would provide and pay for their own forms, envelopes,
ballots, and sample ballots.
2. Each jurisdiction would arrange and pay for their own legal ads.
3. Each jurisidiction would retain their own ballots and returns for the
required retention period.
4. The City would coordinate highlighting of the precinct lists by election
judges to depict those voters in District 281. District 281 would pay the
election fudge wage of $4.50 per hour for this job. This is a unique
situation because no other cities in District 281 have split precincts.
5. The School District will waive the custodial and use fees for three
schools used as polling locations and will attempt to provide voter
parking: Robbinsdale Armstrong High School, Pilgrim Lane Elementary
School, and Zachary Lane Elementary School.
Precinct list highlighting was done by three election judges the week of
October 30. You will receive an invoice from our Finance Department in the
amount of $42.75 (9.5 hours x $4.50 per hour = $42.75). This was much less
than we originally anticipated.
As I indicated by telephone, in future years, particularly with the
introduction of Uniform Election Day, we will want to discuss responsibility
and cost sharing for such things as:
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH. MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
Martha Stebelton
November 6, 1989
Page 2
Election Judge Hiring and Wages
Election Judge Training
Polling Place Confirmation and Fees
Optech IIIP Maintenance Agreement
Optech IIIP Ballot Printing
Postage for absentee ballots, registrations, and voter verification
Staff wages, including necessary overtime
Set-up and Tear Down of voting equipment
Cost for Computerized Precinct Lists and Master Lists
Administration of Absentee Balloting
It is particularly important that these items be addressed because in the City
of Plymouth we are dealing with added costs and responsibilities of elections
for four school districts, not just one. By addressing these items before the
next election occurs, we will be better able to develop cost and
responsibility sharing that is fair to the City and each of the school
districts.
Sincerely,
Laurie Rauenhorst
City Clerk
cc: Linda Powell, Superintendent
James G. Willis, City Manager
S.F. 3-1-90
COMMUNICATIONS ACTIVITIES --During November and December 1989 the
following communications projects were completed:
CABLE TELEVISION:
-covered 4 City Council meetings
-Northwest Cities program on fall recreation programs with Mary
Patterson
-Northwest Cities program on Dial -A -Ride with Frank Boyles
-Northwest Cities program on Fire Station 3 open house/Fire
Prevention Week
-worked with League of Women Voters on Candidates Forum &
Community Center Forum
-videotaped Bob Renner's presentation on the Minnesota Property
Tax System for use on cable television. He spoke to the
Heritage Highlands HOA on October 26
PUBLICATIONS
-wrote two Rock Reports, the employee newsletter
-wrote and edited November/December Plymouth on Parade
-developed handout for housing rehab grant program using Ventura
-developed invitation for Station 3 opening using Ventura
OTHER ACTIVITIES
-news releases: weekly recycling drawing results; watermain
flushing; Fire Prevention Week; Fire Station 3 open house
-coordinated employee campaign for United Way. Raised over
$7,000, up 16 percent from 1988
-worked with Dick Pouliot on household hazardous waste collection
-submitted 2 articles to Twin West newsletter
-provided requested budget info. on Comprehensive Plan maps and
cost of producing a 4 -page newsletter
-worked with Lyle Robinson on the ribbon cutting for Station 3
-took photos at Station 3 opening
-took photos of Metrolink for Regional Transit listing
-investigated various character generators to replace our Portec
-wrote script for Police Explorers videotape
-attended meeting of cable TV coordinators on Sept. 27
-attended meetings of Northwest Community TV Board on Oct. 4 &
Oct. 11
-toured city with other city employees
-wrote Mayor's speech for Station 3 opening
-wrote several letters for the Mayor
-attended Minnesota Community Television Awards on Oct. 14.
Plymouth won in the government/municipal category for "A Dog's
Day;" A second program, "Managing Minnesota's Cities," which was
a cooperative effort of the Cities of Plymouth, St. Louis Park
and Edina also won Minnesota Community Television Award.
-developed a promotional plan for DARE.
TRANSIT INFORMATION
UPDATE
REGIONAL TR4NSfT MMRD
Regional Transit Board, Mears Park Centre, 230 E. Fifth Street, St. Paul, Minnesota 55101, (612) 292-8789
NEW SERVICE
In August, the RTB approved its updated Five -Year Plan,
which is the guideline that establishes the direction, priorities,
timing and funding for various elements of the metropolitan
transit system. This plan must be revised every two years.
In determining specific service enhancements, the RTB
conducts analysis of changing conditions in specific areas or
market segments. Needs assessments may be initiated by
the RTB or at the request of a community. Needs are
determined by an analysis of key transit needs indicators
including population, employment, transit dependents, travel
desires, congestion and available transit. Manyfuture subur-
ban transit services are being designed around "transit hubs"
such as shopping malls.
Some transit improvements included in the Five -Year Plan
are an 1-394 Timed -Transfer Service Plan, 1-494 service
including improved local crosstown service tied to the mall of
America, 1-35W Corridor improvements, rural alternate serv-
ice in southern Dakota County, and dial -a -ride services in
developing suburban communities.
Implementation of the specific initiatives will depend on
community interest and financial support along with legisla-
tive appropriations. Communities are encouraged to work
with the RTB on assessing and developing specific services
that best meet their needs.
METRO MOBILITY
Since 1987, we witnessed a tremendous growth in the num-
ber of trips delivered by the Metro Mobility program. During
the first six months of 1989, the program provided over
110,000 trips per month, with an all-time high of 123,290 trips
in March 1989.
The rapid demand on ridership has created financial drains
and trip denials to the system. Both the RTB and the
legislature are looking for ways to make the system both cost-
effective, while providing the greatest level of service pos-
sible.
Two reports are due to the legislature at the end of this year.
The RTB will be providing the legislature with an overall
analysis of the Metro Mobility program, while the State Plan-
ning Agency is examining the use of Metro Mobility by human
service based agencies. The State Planning Agency will
examine other possible ways of providing agency -based trips
more cost-effectively.
TRANSIT FUNDING
In the current fiscal year, the operating costs of the regular
route transit systems came from the following sources:
Property Tax 50%
Fares 35%
State Grants 8`/0
Federal Grants 7%
The Minnesota Legislature passed transportation funding
legislation in 1989 that increased the Motor Vehicle Excise
Tax (MVET) to 35%. Of this amount, 25% goes to transit
programs, with 80%of these funds staying in the metropolitan
area. Metro transit will recieve approximately $25 million
each year of the 1990-91 biennium; $9.6 million comes from
the general fund and $15.3 million from the MVET fund. This
money was appropriated to the following programs on an
annual basis:
Regular Route
$11.2 million
Metro Mobility
$11.5 million
Small Urban, Rural
and Replacement
$ .9 million
Planning and
Administration
$ 1.3 million
An additional $3.4 million was appropriated for each year of
the biennium for light rail activities. This money is available
on a 50/50 match basis and can be used for all aspects of
light rail transit, with RTB approval.
LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT
Getting ready for light rail transit (LRT) will be a major activity
for the RTB during the next several years. Currently, the RTB
is preparing a Regional LRT Plan comprised of a Develop-
ment and Financial Plan and a Coordination Plan. AJoint LRT
Advisory Committee was created by legislation to assist the
RTB in planning LRT facilities and services, as well as in
coordinating the LRT activities of regional railroad authorities
and the MTC. The Development and Financial Plan is due to
the legislature in 1990. This plan will determinethe staging for
LRT development and what type of state financial commit-
ment maybe necessary for LRTdevelopment. In addition, the
RTB will continue its LRT public education campaign.
Ehlers and Associates, Inc.
L E A D E R S I N P U B L I C F I N A N C E
November 7, 1989
Mr. Jim Willis
City Manager
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
K�. NO
Mr. Dale Hahn _.
Finance Director
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
T �
Re: City of Plymouth, MN;
Review of Sale Results of $4,285,000 G.O. Water Revenue Bonds and
$715,000 G.O. Improvement Bonds
Dear Jim and Dale:
Monday we took bids for the above bond issues. On November 6, the regional
tax-exempt index was 6.81% compared to 6.77% on September 25 when we drafted
your financing report for the bond issues. Bids for these issues compare to
our projected rates as follows:
Projected NIC
Projected Cost
Awarded NIC
Awarded Cost
$715,000
G.O. Imp. Bonds
6.53%
$203,233.88
6.17%
$191,811.60
$4,285,000
G.O. Rev. Bonds
6.55%
$1,747,168.38
6.3379%
$1,690,417.15
You will note that the City received bids substantially better than our
estimate but significantly better than other Aa or higher rated credits.
OFFICES IN MINNEAPOLIS AND WAUKESHA
2950 Norwest Center • 90 South Seventh Street • Minneapolis, MN 55402-4100 • 612-339-8291 • FAX 612-339-0854
Mr. James Willis and
Mr. Dale Hahn November 7, 1989
Plymouth, MN Page 2
Following is a recap of Plymouth rates compared to recent
similar Minnesota
tax-exempt bond sales:
Plymouth
Plymouth
Edina
Henn. County
Maplewood
November 6
November 6
November 6
November 2
October 19
Moody's Aa
Moody's Aa
Moody's Aal
Moody's Aaa
Moody's Aa
$4,285,000
$ 715,000
$12,970,000
$27,325,000
$1.470M /$1.385M
Year
G.O. Rev.
G.O. Imp.
G.O. TIF Ref.
G.O. Imp.
G.O. Imp./G.O.TIF
1991
5.90%
-
6.00%
6.40%
5.90%
1992
5.90%
5.90%
6.10%
6.40%
6.00%
1993
6.00%
5.90%
6.15%
6.40%
6.00%
1994
6.00%
5.90%
6.20%
6.40%
6.10%
1995
6.05%
5.90%
6.30%
6.40%
6.15%
1996
6.10%
5.90%
6.40%
6.40%
6.20%
1997
6.20%
-
6.45%
6.40%
6.25%
1998
6.20%
-
6.50%
6.40%
6.30%
1999
6.20%
-
6.60%
6.50%
6.40%
2000
6.20%
-
6.70%
6.60%
6.50%
Avg.
Coupon
Rate:
6.075%
5.90%
6.34%
6.43%
6.18
Discount: .9879%
.9882%
.9895%
.991%
.99%
The Plymouth issues were bid better than Aaa-rated credits. Edina and
Hennepin County's bonds were not sold as designated qualified bonds because
they exceeded $10 million which increased the yield 5 to 10 basis points since
it affects the taxability of bonds bought by financial institutions. Even
with this adjustment the City traded better than the Aaa credits.
Harris Bank had sold almost all of the Plymouth bonds the day after the sale.
The underwriting/investment community obviously recognizes Plymouth as a
solid, well-managed "Aaa" community. Congratulations on the great work!
As always, we enjoyed working with you on this project and are proud to have
the City of Plymouth on our client list. We will be contacting you shortly to
finalize the bond closing details.
Very truly yours,
EHLERS AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
Steven F. Apfelbacher
President
SFA:nad
1747a
:..:j; .
$4,285,000 General Obligation Water Revenue Bonds of 1989
City of Plymouth, Minnesota
SALE: Monday, November 6, 1989
AWARD: HARRIS TRUST AND SAVINGS BANK
9 1989
r -
y,. Wll tJi �L)Itri�fJi
RATING: Moodv's "Aa"
BBI: 7.24%
COUPON
NET INTEREST COST
NAME OF BIDDER
RATE
YEAR
& RATE PRICE
HARRIS TRUST AND SAVINGS BANK
5.90%
1991-1992
$1,690,417.15 $4,233,187.85
Chicago, Illinois
6.00%
1993-1994
BEAR, STEARNS & COMPANY
6.05%
1995
6.3379%
Chicago, Illinois
6.10%
1996
Hutchinson, Shockey, Erley & Company
6.20%
1997-2000
La Salle National Bank
Shawmut Bank of Boston
United Missouri Bank of Kansas City, N.A.
DEAN WITTER REYNOLDS, INC.
Chicago, Illinois
SHEARSON LEHMAN HUTTON, INC.
Chicago, Illinois
CLAYTON BROWN & ASSOCIATES, INC
Chicago, Illinois
BLUNT, ELLIS & LOEWI, INC.
Chicago, Illinois
GRIFFIN, KUBIK, STEPHENS &
& THOMPSON, INC.
Chicago, Illinois
6.00%
6.05%
6.10%
6.15%
6.20%
6.25%
6.375%
6.50%
6.125%
6.20%
6.25%
1991
1992-1993
1994
1995
1996-1997
1998
1999
2000
1991-1992
1993-1998
1999-2000
$1,706,368.96
6.3977%
$1,711,360.72
6.4164%
$4,252,795.10
$4,231,531.45
2950 Norwest Center
Ehlers and Associates, Inc. 90 South Seventh Street
Minneapolis. MN 55402-4100
L E A D E R S I N P U B L I C F I N A N C E (612) 339-8291 FAX (612) 339-0854
$4,285,000 General Obligation
City of Plymouth, Minnesota
Monday, November 6, 1989
Page 2
Water Revenue Bonds of 1989
f
=-S-
NAME OF BIDDER
COUPON
RATE
YEAR
NET INTEREST COST
& RATE PRICE
CRONIN & COMPANY, INC.
6.00%
1991 -1992 $1,720,589.38 $4,250,720.00
Minneapolis, Minnesota
6.05%
1993
MILLER, JOHNSON & KUEHN, INC.
6.10%
1994
6.4511%
Minneapolis, Minnesota
6.15%
1995
SMITH BARNEY, HARRIS UPHAM
6.25%
1996
& COMPANY, INC.
6.30%
1997
Chicago, Illinois
6.35%
1998
THE NORTHERN TRUST COMPANY
6.45%
1999
Chicago, Illinois
6.50%
2000
PIPER, JAFFRAY & HOPWOOD INC.
6.00%
1991
$1,744,138.75 $4,242,150.00
Minneapolis, Minnesota
6.05%
1992
American National Bank & Trust Company
6.10%
1993
6.5393%
Robert W. Baird & Company, Inc.
6.20%
1994
Craig Hallum, Inc.
6.25%
1995
Park Investment Corporation
6.30%
1996
Peterson Financial Corporation
6.35%
1997
Moore, Juran & Company, Inc.
6.40%
1998
6.50%
1999
IN ASSOCIATION WITH -
6.55%
2000
NORWEST LNVESTMENT SERVICES, INC.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
FBS CAPITAL MARKETS GROUP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
John G. Kinnard & Company, Inc.
:.._:� �•
s
$715,000 General Obligation Improvement Bonds of 1989
City of Plymouth, Minnesota
SALE: Monday, November 6, 1989
AWARD: HARRIS TRUST AND SAVINGS BANK
AN I UN CM&...
NAME OF BIDDER
HARRIS TRUST AND SAVINGS BANK
Chicago, Illinois
BEAR, STEARNS & COMPANY
Chicago, Illinois
Hutchinson, Shockey, Erley & Company
La Salle National Banc
Shawmut Bank of Boston
United Missouri Bank of Kansas City, N.A.
CLAYTON BROWN & ASSOCIATES, INC.
Chicago, Illinois
BLUNT, ELLIS & LOEWI, INC.
Chicago, Illinois
GRIFFIN, KUBIK, STEPHENS &
THOMPSON, INC.
Chicago, Illinois
CRONIN & COMPANY, INC.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
MILLER, JOHNSON & KUEHN, INC.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
SMITH BARNEY, HARRIS UPHAM
& COMPANY, INC.
Chicago, Illinois
THE NORTHERN TRUST COMPANY
Chicago, Illinois
DEAN WITTER REYNOLDS
Chicago, Illinois
SHEARSON LEHMAN HUTTON, INC
Chicago, Illinois
COUPON NET INTEREST COST
RATE YEAR & RATE PRICE
6.00%
6.05%
6.10%
6.15%
6.25%
6.05%
6.10%
6.15%
6.20%
1992-1996
1992-1996
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1992-1993
1994
1995
1996
$191,811.60
6.1700%
$193,450.25
6.2227%
$196,651.25
6.3257%
$198,456.87
6.3838%
$706,604.65
$708,074.75
$709,280.00
$707,135.00
Ehlers and Associates, Inc. 2950 Norwest Center
90 South Seventh Street
Minneapolis, MN 55402-4100
40LEADE FIS IN PUBLIC FINANCE (612) 339-8291 FAX (612) 339-0854
$715,000 General Obligation Improvement Bonds of 1989
City of Plymouth, Minnesota
Monday, November 6, 1989
Page 2
NAME OF BIDDER
01
COUPON NET INTEREST COST
RATE YEAR & RATE PRICE
PIPER, JAFFRAY & HOPWOOD INC.
6.05%
1992 $199,633.12
Minneapolis, Minnesota
American National Bank & Trust Company
6.10%
6.20%
1993
1994 6.4216%
Robert W. Baird & Company, Inc.
6.25%
1995
Craig Hallum, Inc.
6.30%
1996
Park Investment Corporation
Peterson Financial Corporation
Moore, Juran & Company, Inc.
IN ASSOCIATION WITH -
NORWEST INVESTMENT SERVICES, INC.
Minneapolis, Mvmesota
FBS CAPITAL MARKETS GROUP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Jolui G. Kinnard & Company, Inc.
$708,565.00
31 -Oct -B9
--------------------
PLYMOUTH DIAL -A -RIDE
--------------------
1989 MONTHLY COST SUMMARY
1989 DAILY RIDERSHIP REPORT
Subsidy/
Recovery
Total Cost
Revenue
Deficit
Passengers
Passenger
Ratio
October
16,123.25
2,203.00
(13,920.25)
1944
$7.16
13.7%
Septeeber
11,603.00
1,687.30
(9,915.70)
1541
$6.43
14.5%
August
12,756.13
1,889.75
(10,866.38)
1638
$6.63
14.8%
July
11,669.63
1,657.00
(10,012.63)
1399
$7.16
14.2%
June
12,243.63
1,703.45
(10,540.18)
1532
$6.88
13.9%
May
12,279.50
1,354.00
(10,925.50)
1245
$8.78
11.0%
April
4,592.00
465.50
(4,126.50)
402
$10.26
10.1%
-------------------------------
Accusulated
----------------------------
Totals
81,267.14
-------------------------------
-------------------------------
10,960.00
(70,307.14)
9,701
---------------------------
----------------------------
$7.25
13.5%
1989 DAILY RIDERSHIP REPORT
---------------
Weekly Statistics ----------------
Rides
Rides
--------------
Rides
Per Day
-----------------
Total
Wkday
Wkend
Ava.Trip
Per Wkday
Per Wkend
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Rides
--------------------------------------------------
Avg.
Avg.
Dist.
Hour
Hour
October, 1989:
----------------------------------------------
Wk of 10/01
- 10/07
B
48
76
99
64
7B
37
430
77.0
22.5
8.75
2.4
2.6
10/08
- 10/14
13
61
B5
93
BO
83
42
457
80.4
27.5
8.33
2.5
3.2
10/15
- 10/21
19
64
70
B3
99
75
38
44B
7B.2
28.5
6.33
2.4
3.5
10/22
- 10/28
12
65
72
90
B2
101
33
455
82.0
22.5
8.43
2.5
2.6
10/29
- 10/31
12
65
77
154
71.0
12.0
10.03
2.2
1.5
Monthly
Totals
----------------------------------------------
64
----------------------------------------------
303
380
365
345
337
150
--------------------------------------------------
1944
--------------------------------------------------
78.6
23.6
8.5B
2.4
2.8
PLYMOUTH ZONING ORDINANCE
Section 10, Subdivision A
maintenance, and ultimate removal of the sign. Setback requirements may be waived for
such signs, provided that they are located on y private property wih theexpressconsent
of the property owner, and provided that the do not impede safetyby g
vision of pedestrians or motor vehicle operators.
5) Temporary Signage for commercial announcements such as grand openings and special
events, may be mounted on a portable stand, with a maximum surface area of 32 sq. ft.,
or may be wall signage subject to the same standards as the permanent wall signage
allowed for the enterprise. Such signs may be used not more than four _times per
calendar year, and for a period of not more than 14 da s per time or of the dura�{on of
the event romoted b the sign
messa a whichever is less. The sign, sign suppo
and portable stand shall be removed from public view at the end of the period.
Multi -tenant buildings shall be considered as a single property forpurposes of this
paragraph, and the use of the sin le temporary sign b tenants on the ro ert shall be
the res onsibilit of the ro ert owner or desi nated mana er who shall endorse in
writing all applications for sign permits. The owner or manager of the sign and the
owner of the property shall be equally responsible for the proper location,
maintenance, and removal of the sign. Setback requirements may be waived for such
signs provided they are located on private property with the express consent of the
property owner and provided that they do not impede safety by obstructing vision of
pedestrians or motor vehicle operators. (Amended Ord. 89-14)
6) Temporary Signs for non-commercial announcements by civic groups shall be a maximum 32
sq. ft. in surface area, provided that a maximum of three such signs may exceed 32 sq.
ft., to a maximum 300 sq. ft., in surface area provided that the larger signs are for
city-wide and free community events.
Temporary Signs for non-commercial announcements by civic groups shall be removed when
the intended purpose has been fulfilled. Signs with a surface area greater than 32 sq.
ft. are allowed for a maximum of ten days.
The owner or manager of the sign, the owner of the land, or the sponsoring civic group
shall be equally responsible for the proper location, maintenance, and ultimate removal
of the sign. Setback requirements may be waived for such signs provided that they are
located on private property with the express consent of the property owner, and
provided they do not impede safety by obstructing vision of pedestrians or motor
vehicle operators. (Amended Ord. 86-26)
7) One temporary sign for transient merchants and transient produce merchants. The sign
shall not exceed 16 sq. ft. in surface area, and shall not exceed 6 ft. in height. The
sign shall be setback at least 20 ft. from the street right-of-way line and shall be
erected only during the period of transient sales. (Amended Ord. 86-07)
4. B-2 (SHOPPING CENTER) _05—TRU-0. Signs are accessory to permitted and conditional uses in the
B-2 District; only the following signs are permitted in this district, unless otherwise
specifically provided in this Subdivision.
10-6
November 7, 1989
Mr. A. M. Clausnitzer
10705 40th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Mr. Clausnitzer:
�l
CITY OF
PUMOUTR
Z-CkCA�--
I have a copy of your November 1, 1989 letter to the Metropolitan Waste
Control Commission (Attention Don Blume). I also called you and left a
message on your recorder asking that you confirm for me Mr. Blumes's official
response regarding the apparent finding that your actual approved seating at
the Favors -N -Flavors yogurt shop would not require a Service Availability
Charge.
You are aware that we collect Service Availability Charge for the Metropolitan
Waste Control Commission.
Your letter suggests that the Metropolitan Waste Control Commission has
determined no Service Availability Charge would be required because of the
approved number of seats. This needs to be verified by them so that the City
can obtain the credit from them if the charge you paid is to be refunded by
the City.
Your permit shows that the Sewer Availability Charge was $550 and that the
check you paid the City in the amount of $1,510.15 also included the local
City charges (water residential equivalency charge and sewer residential
equivalency charge), the building permit fee, plan check fee and State of
Minnesota surcharge.
Therefore, I understand your request at this time is to have the Metropolitan
Waste Control Commission and the City consider the circumstances of your
permit and determine whether the Sewer Availability Charge was appropriate; if
it is determined that it was not appropriate, then you desire a refund.
I will await your response from the Metropolitan Waste Control Commission and
I will have Building Official Joe Ryan develop information regarding the
calculation of the fees and charges which you paid.
Please call me of Joe Ryan should you have any questions regarding this.
Sincerely,
4-"
Blair Tremere
Community Development Director
cc: City Manager James G. Willis
Councilmember Sisk
Building Official Joe Ryan
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH. MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MANSCO INVESTMENTS
4020 MINNETONKA BOULEVARD • MINNEAPOLIS. MINNESOTA 55416 -
rte'
�y
Novemer 1, 1989
d
Metropolitan Waste Control Comm.
230 East 50th
St. Paul, MN. 55101
Attn: Don Bloom
Dear Mr. Bloom.
sgs-I- Yo2.
TELEPHONE (612) 927-4011
+
p / -6,\ 1
I writing in regard to our telephone conversation
of 10-30-89 regarding the SAC charge to Favors -N -Flavors.
This charge was made by the city of Plymouth at the
time I made application to build a Yogurt Shop in that
city.
The charge was $1,510.15 on September 1, 1989. I am
enclosing a photo copy of the check. This was based
on an application for 35 seats in the shop. The city
than required me to go to the City Council again after
I had paid the SAC/WAC charges. They finally only
approved seating for 19 seats. I am enclosing a copy
of the final plan as approved by the Plymouth City
Council. The reduction in seating was caused by the
City because there was to many eating establishments
in the center for the number of parking spaces. This
was the explanation given to me by the city staff.
I then attempted to get my monies returned, because
I called the Waste Control office and was told with
only 19 seats there would be no SAC/WAC charges. I
got nowhere with the city personnel including the Mayor.
His comment was "We don't charge it or set the fees,
there is nothing you can do about it, its a different
department Finally Councilman Sisk was kind enough
to getme the information to me, so I at least could
get something started. I realize this does not guarantee
that the city will reimburse me, but I can deal with
them on a more local basis.
Thank You for your help.
Respectfully,
A. M. CLAUSNITZER
AMC/b j c
CC: Councilman Sisk
City Manager Willis
If there is any correspondence mail it to me at 10705-40thAVe
Plymouth, MN. 55441
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ST. LOUIS PARK, MN 55416
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TR EN WRIGHT
AND ASSOCIATE ARCHITECTS
MEMO
ab
DATE: October 26, 1989
TO: Mr. Frank Boyles
Assistant City Manager L
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447
FROM: Michael A. Trossen - TWAA
RE: Revised Project Schedule for Fire Station #1
October 23 - Formal approval of program of needs by City. Finalize
November 10 Schematic Floor Plan and Site Plan with City Staff and Fire
Department. Preparation of submittals to DRC.
November 13 - DRC review process.
December 8
December 11 Legislative approval process involving City Council and
January 12 Planning Commission.
January 15 - Design Development Phase.
February 15
February 15 - Construction Document Phase.
March 30
April 1 - 30 Bidding and negotiation. Application for building permits.
Demolition of existing station.
May 1 - Construction Phase.
September 1
September 15 Occupancy.
MAT/tb.FB
cc: Jim Willis
Lvle Robbinson
-7 � . cmC-,
October 31, 1989
Mr. Richard Carlquist
Public Safety Director
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Dick:
I appreciate the opportunity for Advance Machine Company to hold
the next SARA TITLE III meeting of the Public Safety and Plymouth
reporting businesses. I believe that it is this joint cooperative
effort that can make our community a better and safer place to
work and maintain that intangible benefit of business and
government working together.
I will however, be unable to attend, in that I have a need to
travel to our Welsh manufacturing plant. In my absence I have
asked Kenny Page, Plant Manager Buildings #2 and #3, to attend
along with Bob Priller. Both of these individuals are extremely
involved in our daily operations and planning routines. They can
be of value during your meeting.
Again, I am sorry I will be unable to attend. I look forward to
Bob's and Kenny's report.
Sincerely,
ADVANCE MACHINE COMPANY
Roinald G. Ray
V. P. Manufacturing
RGR/ jb
cc: Kenny Page
Bob Priller
■
Advance Machine Company, 1460021st AVE NORTH, PLYMOUTH, MN, 55447-3408, TELEX: 497-5061 ADV -UI • FAX: (612)475-9718 *PHONE: (612)1473-2235
City of Blaine
9150 Central Avenue N.E., Blaine, Minnesota 55434
November 6, 1989
Mr. Frank Boyles
Assistant City Manager
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Frank:
(612) 784-6700 FAX (612) 784-6740
Thank you very much for your presentation at the MPWA Public
Works Maintenance Program on Monday October 30th. Your presen-
tation, "Designing an Effective Safety Program," started off the
program in an effective and meaningful manner. I thought your
presentation was excellent, contained quality material, was mean-
ingful to the audience and it was obvious you had spent consider-
able time in its preparation.
Your time and effort is most appreciated and the residents of
Plymouth are well served by having you on their staff.
Sincerely,
Charles Lenthe, P.E.
Public Works Coordinator/City Engineer
CL:cr
October 31, 1989
CITY OF
CHANHASSEN
690 COULTER DRIVE • P.O. BOX 147 • CHANHASSEN, MINNESOTA 55317
(612) 937-1900 0 FAX (612) 937-5739
Police Chief R. Carlquist
Plymouth Police Department
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Chief Carlquist,
I am writing to express our appreciation for the recent
assistance provided by Police Services Supervisor Steven Correll,
Community Service Officer Kulesan, and Community Service Officer
Sykes. All three assisted us with an unusual animal control
situation.
Because none of the neighboring Jurisdictions had animal
tranquilizing equipment, when we,`were confronted with a doberman
pinscher in excess of 100 pound' that had apparently gone mad,
we had no choice but to seek assistance from another jurisdiction
that had the proper equipment',-nd personnel. The above listed
individuals responded prompty, courteously, and professionally,
providing the necessary assistance to 'remedy this situation.
Particularly in light of the fact that Plymouth and Chanhassen
are not adjacent communities, we are particularly grateful for
the assistance. I hope7you will pass our appreciation on to
these officers, and accept our thanks.
S er 1y,
Scott Harr, Assistant Public Safety Director
SH:lf -
cc: Plymouth Mayor Virgil Schneider
Chanhassen Mayor Don Chmiel
Jim Chaffee, Chanhassen Public Safety Director
�� x. '
CITY OF
PLYMOUTR
November 7, 1989
Laurie Ryan Hayes
Legal Assistant
Rider, Bennett, Egan & Arundel
2000 Lincoln Center
333 South 7th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55402
SUBJECT: CHELSEA WOODS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION FIRE - NOVEMBER 27, 1986
Dear Ms. Hayes:
Enclosed are copies of the materials which you requested in your letter of
October 26.
Yours truly,
c
attachment
cc: Laurie Rauenhorst, City Clerk
Jim Thomson, City Attorney
Litigation File
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH. MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
RIDER, BENNETT, EGAN & ARUNDEL
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
WILLIAM T. EGAN
EDWARD M. ARUNDEL
DONALD R. BACKSTROM
DAVID F. FITZGERALD
LARRY R. HENNEMAN-
JOHN P. FLATEN
DAYTON E. SOBY
DAVID J. BYRON
RICHARD J. NYGAARD
JOHN C. UNTHANK
ALFRED SEDGWICK
STEVEN J. KLUZ
RICHARD H. KROCHOCK
GENE C. OLSON
OGER R. ROE, JR.•
R
GREGORY M. WEYANOT•
ERIC J. MAGNUSON
RONALD S. LAHNER•
JOHN B. LUNSETH II
JOAN S. MORROW
GENE H. HEN
NIG
SHERYL RAMSTAD HVASS
KEVIN CDOOLEY
MARK W.. SCHNEIDER♦
JOHN D. SAUNDERS
PATRICK J. SAUTER
PATRI CIA A. BURKE
FRANK B. BENNETT
KEITH J.KERFELD
BRIAN A. WOOD•
ANN BARRY BURNS -
BARRY F. CLEGG
DAVID M. BOLT
JEREMIAH P. GALLIVAN
MARTHA M. SIMONETT
JANE S. WELCH
STEPHEN P. WATTERS
LOUISE A. DOVRE
JILL FLASKAMP HALBROOKS
JAMES L. FORMAN
JEFFREY O. CARPENTER
KENNETH S. GUENTHNER
KEVIN D. HOFMAN
BRUCE L. TALEN
JAN M. GUNDERSON
ROBERT A. AWSUMB
JANETTE K. BRIMMER•
ANDREA BRECKNER NIELSEN
October 26, 1989
Mr. James G. Willis
City Manager
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
WILLIAM J,EGAN
LAURA TUBBS BOOTH
THOMAS G. ROCK
TERRIL.GROEN
JONATHAN N. JASPER
ANNE BRYANT WIGHT
DAVID T. KLAPHEKE
ANDREA MITCHELL WALSH
PAULA G. FORBES*
CRAIG R. KIEFFER
GENE F. BENNETT
(1926-1983)
OF COUNSEL
STUART W. RIDER, JR.
KENNETH R. JOHNSON
.ALSO ADMITTED IN WISCONSIN
'r _q 1 -3 --
2000 LINCOLN CENTRE
333 SouTH SEvENTH STREET
MWNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA 55402
Re: Chelsea Woods Homeowners' Association, et al vs.
Woodsmen Builders, Inc.
Date of Fire: 11/27/86
Our File: 6/R04308
Dear Mr. Willis:
TELEPHONE (612) 340-7951
TELECOPIER (612) 375-0701
WRITERS DIRECT DIAL NUMBER
340-7999
Through the plaintiffs in the above -referenced action, we
have obtained a number of documents generated by you and members
of your staff. I have a copy of a January 8, 1987 memo from Mr.
Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manager to the Mayor and City
Council concerning a January 5 meeting with the Chelsea Woods
Homeowners' Association. The memo references memoranda or
reports generated by the City Attorney, the Public Safety
Director and the Planning and Community Development Director. We
would like to obtain copies of these reports.
We of course will be happy to reimburse reasonable
photocopying and charges for staff time associated with locating
these documents.
Thank you.
Very truly yours,
RIDE
LRH:bll
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: January 8, 1987 for City Council Meeting of January 12, 1987
TO: Mayor & City Council i�,�
FROM: Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manag4
SUBJECT CHELSEA WOODS HOMEOWNERS REQUEST
SUMMARY: At the January 5 meeting, Mr. Tom Barker and Mr. Ken Plant,
on behalf of the Chelsea Woods Homeowner Association, requested "an
immediate inspection of all its (Chelsea Woods) homes by the City of
Plymouth, to see if they comply with the Building Code of 1973."
Following discussion intended to clarify the scope of the inspection
work desired, the purpose for such inspections, the resources required
to conduct the inspections, and cursory review of the liability issues
associated therewith, the City Council directed that the staff and
City Attorney expeditiously evaluate and provide a report with recom-
mendations on this subject. The Council directed that staff focus
primarily upon proactive measures that the City should take to assist
Chelsea residents. This report summarizes the issues and provides
staff recommendations with respect to the Council directions.
Memorandums are attached from City Attorney James Thomson, Public
Safety Director Dick Carlquist, and Planning and Community Development
Director Blair Tremere, providing detailed information on the various
aspects of the issues which the Chelsea Woods request entails. Staff
recommendations are also provided.
Judging
meeting,
by the turnout and tenor of the comments at the January 5
a large number
concern that their living
because of the residents
commonwall separations ar
which each building was
areas of resident conce
of Chelsea Woods residents have genuine
units may expose them to greater fire danger
assumptions that the fireplaces, chimneys and
e inadequate when compared to the Code under
constructed. Ken Plant stated that the two
rn are: fire spread horizontally via the
commonwalls, and fire spread vertically through the chimney chase.
The first issue to be addressed is, does historical data support the
claim that there is disapportionally higher fire hazard for residents
living in Chelsea Woods than in other multi or single family livinq
units in the City? The attached memorandum from Public Safety
Director Dick Carlquist states in the first paragraph that, "I have
researched the records and statistics (since January, 1981) that we
keep regarding fire loss in the City of Plymouth. I could find no
records of a townhouse fire such as that experienced recently in
CHELSEA WOODS HOMEOWNERS REQUEST
January 8, 1987
Page two
, c�
Chelsea Woods occurring. In fact, the majority of fire loss was to
detached single-family homes." For the last five years, the records
confirm that no townhouse fires have occurred. The lack of incidence
of fires at townhouse units does not suggest a greater than average
exposure to fire to the inhabitants of such units.
A second question raised was whether or not Chelsea Woods residents
should refrain from using their fireplaces, assuming that there may be
flaws in the construction of each. Based upon Director Carlquist's
memorandum, "Fireplaces or wood auxiliary heating appliances, careless
smoking, and faulty electrical wiring are the three major causes of
home fires..." in Plymouth. He further states that, "Our experience
is no different than the rest of Minnesota in that these appear to be
the three leading causes of residential fires." In light of these
observations, the use of any fireplace should be undertaken with care.
Mr. Carlquist also states that, according to Fire Inspector Scofield,
".....everything is related to proper maintenance, cleaninq and usage
of the (fireplace) unit, especially staying within heat maximums
recommended by the original manufacturer. Regular cleaning and
maintenance are essential as well."
Based upon the shared concern of Chelsea Woods residents about the
fireplace issue, it seems reasonable to assume that at least a fair
number of units are equipped with fireplaces. Assuming further that
the residents use their fireplaces at least periodically, and the fact
that a fireplace fire has not occurred at this location for the last
five years, suggests that there is not a higher exposure to a
fireplace fire at Chelsea Woods than any other single or multi family
unit in the City.
Residents also expressed concern about fire spread from unit -to -unit.
Whenever units share a commonwall, there is reason for concern about
horizontal fire spread. Chief Carlquist states, "The final analysis
of the great property loss damage suffered at the Chelsea Woods fire
was really a function more of 'time' than any other variable. From
the recent movie that I showed the City Council regarding residential
sprinklers, I am sure that they have a better understanding of what
four or five minutes will do in the delay in reporting a fire. In the
particular case in question, there appeared to be much more of a time
delay!" The bottom line is that there is a direct correlation with
the amount of time a fire is given to develop and the likelihood of
its breaching a fire rated wall.
The above observations are intended to establish perspective on the
Chelsea Woods situation and not address the issue of inspection.
The attached City Attorney's opinion clearly suggests that any
Inspection undertaken would be most prudently accomplished by a third
party. The City Attorney indicates, "Based upon the CraCraft
decision, it is my opinion that the City has no liability to property
owners of Chelsea Woods if the units were not constructed according to
the Building Code."
January 8, 1987
Page three
The City Attorney's opinion further indicates that, "I am not aware of
any statutory mandate, either in building code or otherwise, that
requires the City's building inspector to reinspect units after they
have been constructed." Only in instances where a clear public hazard
has been demonstrated, does an obligation exist. Consequently he
states that, "Based upon the facts and circumstances that are known to
date, it is my opinion that the City has no legal duty to inspect the
remaining units." He adds that, "If the City inspects the units at
Chelsea Woods that have not been damaged by fire, the City is poten-
tially increasing its exposure to liability by assuming a duty that
does not exist either statutorily or at common law."
It would also be inappropriate for the City to directly undertake the
inspections if the results are used ultimately to bring action against
the developer and/or City. It would represent the City of Plymouth
investigating itself which is questionable from an objectivity stand-
point.
Besides being legally inadvisable for the City to reinspect the
structures, we do not have a sufficient number of staff personnel nor
the expertise necessary to accomplish such a comprehensive inspection
without adversely impacting upon our daily workload as indicated by
Blair Tremere in the attached memorandum. Director Tremere has
outlined the total estimated costs of conducting the necessary inspec-
tions of the fireplaces and commonwalls. Based upon quotations
received by Building Official Ryan, the cost of demolition and repair
required to inspect each unit, would be $26,000 in the case of one
bidder, and almost $45,000 in the case of another. These quotations
do not include re -painting and panel finishinq - only rough finish-
ing. The actual inspections range from a low of S4,875 for one
vendor, to $8,000 - $9,000. For quotation purposes, it was assumed
the work includes fire separation inspections and fireplace inspec-
tions and that all units would receive inspection. A one or two unit
inspection of fire damaged units is not sufficient in Mr. Tremere's
view to reach conclusions that can be reliably extrapolated to all
other units. However, a sampling of commonwalls coupled with
inspection of all fireplaces would provide sufficient data to reach
conclusions while reducing total inspector costs. Total inspection
costs will be less if sampling of commonwalls is used in lieu of
inspecting each. The content of each inspection is included in
Blair's memorandum.
RECOMMENDATIONS
To be of assistance to the Chelsea Woods homeowners, the following
steps would be appropriate for the City:
t11LLJL/l f1VVV0 (IVIILVIII\LI\J 1\L�VL�JI
January 8, 1987
Page four
1. The Building Inspection Division should assemble all appropriate
Building Code provisions, and related documentation and inter-
pretation issues, and supply them to a Homeowner Association
representative. Prior to the inspection, the Building Official
will be available to meet with Homeowner Association represen-
tatives as time is available to review with them generic
concerns with respect to code issues as they relate to townhouse
and the two memos he has already supplied. This would not
include the on-site inspections or evaluation of units by city
employees.
2. The City's Fire Inspector, who is familiar with the specific
fire prevention needs of Chelsea Woods residents, will tailor
the already scheduled education session to address the specific
concerns of Homeowner Association representatives, including
housekeeping, smoke detectors, exiting drills, fire
extinguishers, alarm and sprinkler systems, and fireplace
maintenance and operation. Follow up sessions and individual
consultation will be made available as time permits to assist
property owners in obtaining the information they need to take
fire prevention measures.
3. The Building Inspection Division will collect the plans avail-
able from the Chelsea Woods Association to assure that the plans
are evaluated against the requirements of the 1973 Building
Code, recognizing that they are not necessarily as -built plans.
This information, together with that provided in Recommendation
No. 1 above will provide the basic data the contractual
inspector will require to perform inspections and should help to
keep inspection costs to a minimum.
4. The Building Inspection Division will assist Homeowner
Association representatives in securing more specific inspection
quotations based upon the actual work which homeowners may be
willing to accomplish themselves to reduce total costs.
Any contract for inspections should be between the Homeowner
Association and private inspection contractor. The Council should
recognize that as a our community ages, requests of a similar nature
will likely arise for whatever reason. The staff does not recommend
financial participation by the City.
A copy of this memorandum together with the attachments have been
provided to Mr. Tom Barker and Mr. Ken Plant of the Chelsea Woods
Homeowners Association. I expect that they will be present at the
meeting to further discuss these matters with the City Council.
FB: fm
attach
-T--: c)-3,
q
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: January 7, 1987
TO: Frank Boyles, Acting City Manager
FROM: Richard J. Carlquist, Public Safety Director
SUBJECT CHELSEA WOODS MEETING WITH CITY COUNCIL, JANUARY 12, 1987
I have been associated with the Plymouth Fire Department since
January, 1981. From that time, until the present, I have researched
the records and statistics that we keep regarding the fire loss in the
City of Plymouth. I could find no records of a townhouse fire such as
that experienced recently in Chelsea Woods occurring. In fact, the
majority of fire loss was to detached single-family homes. This was
especially true with respect to the loss of life. Six persons lost
their lives in fires during this time frame.
There has been a total of approximately $2.25 million in damage to
single family homes durinq the aforementioned six year time frame. In
investigating the cause of these fires in the single family
residences, there appeared to be three predominantly different causes
of the fires. Fireplaces or auxiliary wood heating appliances,
careless smoking, and faulty electrical wiring were the three major
causes of home fires. I should point out that our experience is no
different than the rest of Minnesota in that these appear to be the
three leading causes of residential fires. One of the house fires
that we did have in 1982, was found to be an arson. Otherwise, the
bulk of our fires are found to be accidental.
On January 15, 1987 at 7:30 p.m., Fire Prevention Inspector Stan
Scofield will be presenting to the Chelsea Homeowners Association a
fire prevention program. This program is basically the same one that
we offer to all homeowner associations. It will deal with such
subjects as: housekeeping, smoke detectors, exiting drills, fire
extinguishers, and fireplace maintenance. I asked Mr. Scofield how
long it would take to do a fire prevention audit in a home, and he
replied, it would take approximately two hours. The two hours would
be required to inspect the fireplace to determine if cleaning was
necessary, and if there appeared to be proper installation. We have
not provided in-home inspections up to this point because we do not
have the manpower budgeted to respond. There is also added liability
associated with approving a fireplace which is subsequently identified
as the source of a fire.
I asked Mr. Scofield whether there is a higher than usual likelihood
of the problem with zero clearance fireplaces. He replied, that
virtually everything was related to the proper maintenance, cleaning
ILLJL/l I1 VVU-) FILL,l — ••i••• —, , _ v••a.i �, �•�•�v•�•�� .L, .i v/
January 7, 1987
Page two
and usage of the unit, especially staying within heat maximums recom-
mended by the original manufacturer. In other words, all things being
equal, there did not appear to be a higher danger caused by using the
fireplace unless one would exceed the fire and heat capacity of the
unit. Another factor Mr. Scofield mentioned was the settling of the
fireplace and this also includes masonry. He said that, in some
instances, there could be a pulling away of the unit from where wood
would be exposed to direct heat. In those cases, there is a distinct
possibility of flame escaping from the fire box and touching the wood
directly. Homeowners, whether in multi -family or single family units,
are well-advised to hire a professional to periodically evaluate the
condition of their free-standing zero clearance or masonry fireplace.
The final analysis of the great property loss damage suffered at the
Chelsea fire was really a function more of "time" than any other
variable. From the recent movie that I showed the City Council
regarding residential sprinklers, I am sure that they have a better
understanding of what four or five minutes will do in the delay in
reporting a fire. In the particular case in question, there appeared
to be much more of a time delay! The bottom line then appears to be
that we have to get the message to the public through our fire
prevention and public education to call the Fire Department
immediately on the first discovery of fire.
RJC:Jm
L(TO erg
Leflt•t
}:rnncci�
O'Lrif•n �•
llrat\ 7
2000 First Bank Place West January 8, 1987
Minneapolis
Minnesota 55402
Telephone !6121 3330543
Telecopier 16121 333-0540
Clayton L. LeFevere
Herbert P. Lefler
J. Dennis O'Brien
Mr. Frank Boyles
John E. Drawz
Assistant City Manager
David J. Kennedy
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
John B. Dean
Glenn E. Purdue
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Richard J. Schieffer
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447
Charles L. LeFevere
Herbert P. Lefler Ill
James J. Thomson, Jr.
RE: Chelsea Woods Fire
Thomas R. Gait
Dayle Nolan
Brian F. Rice
Dear Mr. Boyles:
John G. Kresse'
Lorraine S Clugg
The City Council requested at its January 5, 1987 meeting
James M. Strommen
that I provide them with a letter addressing the legal
Ronald H. Batty
William P. Jordan
ramifications to the City for the fire that occurred at
Kurt J. Erickson
Chelsea Woods on November 27, 1986. The subsequent
William R. Skallerud
investigation by the City Building Inspector indicated a
Rodney D. Anderson
Corrine A. Heine
possibility that the exterior separation walls between
David D. Beaudon
the units were not constructed according to the 1973
Paul E. Rasmussen
building code, which was in effect at the time of
Steven M TaGen
construction. The Chelsea Woods Homeowner's Association
has requested the City Council to authorize the Building
Inspector to inspect other units in the complex to
determine whether they comply with the 1973 building
code.
The legal issues affecting the City include:
1. What potential liability exists if the units
were not constructed according to the 1973
building code?
2. Does the City have a legal duty to inspect the
remaining units in Chelsea Woods for possible
building code violations?
3. Assuming that the City has no legal duty to
inspect the remaining units, what additional
potential liability is incurred by the City if
the Building Inspector inspects the units?
Z93
Mr. Frank Boyles
January 8, 1987
Page 2
APPLICABLE LEGAL PRINCIPLES
In order for the City Council to fully understand the
answers to the questions that have been raised, I believe
that it is important to summarize briefly the general
legal principles applicable to this situation. First of
all, it is important to note that the legal principles
that apply to personal injury or property damage
occurring on public property are not applicable.
Consequently, the general rules of negligence, which
apply to both private parties and governmental entities,
are applicable and need to be briefly explained.
In order for a person to demonstrate that another party
is liable for negligence, the person must first
demonstrate that the other party owed a duty to act in
accordance with a certain standard of care. Second, the
person must demonstrate that the other party did not
follow that standard of care. Third, there must be legal
causation between the breach of the standard of care and
the injury suffered by the person. Finally, the injured
person must suffer damages.
The legal issues associated with this case focus on the
first two factors. That is, does the City owe a legal
duty to the Chelsea Woods residents, and if so, what is
the extent of that duty?
POTENTIAL CITY LIABILITY
FOR UNDISCOVERED BUILDING CODE
VIOLATIONS THAT MIGHT HAVE
OCCURRED AT THE TIME THE
UNITS WERE CONSTRUCTED
The principal case in Minnesota regarding liability of
municipalities for building code and fire code violations
is Cracraft v. City of St. Louis Park, 279 N.W.2d 801
(Minn. 1979). In that case the Minnesota Supreme Court
thoroughly analyzed the issue, which arose as a result of
a fire at Benilde - St. Margaret's High School on October
27, 1974. The city's fire inspector had inspected the
premises on September 13, 1974. The plaintiffs alleged
that the fire resulted from the igniting of duplicating
fluid that had been stored on a loading dock in a 55
gallon drum, which was a violation of the fire code.
In determining whether there was any liability for the
actions of the fire inspector, the court concentrated on
the issue of whether the fire code created a legal duty
on the part of the City to act in accordance with a
certain standard of care. The court noted that the
purpose of building inspections is "to make sure that
construction within the corporate limits of the
municipality meet the standards established." Id. at 804.
Mr. Frank Boyles
January 8, 19£7
Page 3
The court then observed that building codes and building
inspections "are not meant to be an insurance policy by
which the municipality guarantees that each building is
built in compliance with the building codes and zoning
codes." Id. The court then observed that such inspections
are not undertaken for the purpose of insuring either the
person inspected or third parties that the building is
free from all fire hazards or building code violations.
In Cracraft the court concluded that building codes, fire
codes, and municipal ordinances requiring inspections do
not impose a legal duty on a municipality that would give
rise to potential liability for negligence. The Cracraft
decision reaffirmed the court's earlier holding in
Hoffert v. Owatonna Inn Towne Motel, Inc., 199 N.W.2d 158
(Minn. 1973) that the building code does not impose upon
municipalities a duty to protect the personal or property
interests of individuals, and therefore does not give
rise to potential municipal liability for injuries that
occur due to undiscovered building code violations.
Based on the facts that are known to date, it appears
that the building inspection that occurred at the time
the units at Chelsea Woods were constructed was a
standard building inspection that is routinely performed
at the time of initial construction. Based on the
Cracraft decision, the City has no liability to the
property owners at Chelsea Woods for any building code
violations that were not discovered as part of that
inspection.
CITY'S DUTY TO REINSPECT FOR
BUILDING CODE VIOLATIONS
There is no mandate in the Uniform Building Code that
requires the City's building inspector to reinspect units
after they have been constructed. The Code permits
post -construction inspections whenever the building
inspector has reasonable cause to believe that a building
code violation exists that would make a building "unsafe,
dangerous or hazardous." UBC §202(c). The purpose of such
an inspection is to require the building owner to correct
the unsafe conditions. Because the Uniform Building Code
contains no mandatory post -construction inspection
requirement, if any such duty exists it exists as a
result of general common law legal principles.
In Cracraft, the court stated that in determining whether
a municipality has a duty to act in any given situation
depends on all of the facts and circumstances. For
example, a municipality owes a duty to avoid increasing
the risk of harm to a particular person. In addition,
reasonable reliance by individuals on a municipality's
representations and conduct could impose a special duty.
Mr. Frank Boyles
January 8, 1987
Page 4
Also, actual knowledge of a dangerous condition can tend
to impose a duty to inform others of the dangerous
condition.
Based on the facts and circumstances that are known to
date, it is my opinion that the City has no mandatory
legal duty to inspect the remaining units. The City
probably does have a legal duty to disclose the
information that has been learned as a result of the
inspections conducted by the public safety department and
building department.
POTENTIAL ADDITIONAL LIABILITY IF THE
CITY INSPECTS THE REMAINING UNITS
The Uniform Building Code states that the Code is not to
be construed to mean that an inspecting agency assumes
any liability "by reason of the inspections authorized by
this code." UBC 5202(f). That provision has not yet been
interpreted by the Minnesota Supreme Court. It can be
argued that an inspection based solely on the request of
a property owner is not authorized by the Code unless the
Building Inspector first determines that the building is
"unsafe, dangerous or hazardous."
The Minnesota Supreme Court stated in Cracraft that if a
party assumes a duty that does not otherwise exist, the
party has an obligation to exercise that duty in a
reasonable manner. In other words, in situations where a
party has no mandatory legal duty to act, the party can
actually increase its potential liability by assuming
such a duty.
If the City inspects the units at Chelsea Woods that have
not been damaged by the fire, the City is potentially
increasing its exposure to liability by assuming a duty
that does not otherwise exist. For example, if the City
were to inspect the units and conclude that there is no
building code violations, the City could potentially be
liable if that determination is erroneous and is relied
upon by the property owners.
Although there is no legal duty to inspect the remaining
units, there is no legal prohibition against such an
inspection based upon the request of the property owners
if the City Council deems it to be in the best interest
of the City to do so. Such an inspection does not mean
that the City will be an insurer of the units, however,
it might increase the City's potential liability for any
conclusions that are relied upon by the homeowners. There
are ways that the City can attempt to limit its liability
in this regard. For example, the City could contract with
a third party to perform the inspection.
Mr. Frank Boyles
January 8, 1987
Page 5
CONCLUSION
In summary, I do not believe that there is a basis for
liability against the City as a result of the
construction of the units. The City probably has no legal
duty to inspect the remaining units but the City Council,
in the exercise of its discretion, can choose to do so.
The City Council should be cognizant of the fact,
however, that by inspecting the units the City may
potentially be increasing its exposure to liability.
Sincerely,
LeFEVERE, LEFLER, KENNEDY,
( O'BRIEN & DRAWZ
-77
%� r
�mes homson, Jr.
JJT/kjj
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: January 7, 1987
TO: Assistant City Manager Frank Boyles
FROM: Community Development Director Blair Tremere
SUBJECT REQUEST FOR INSPECTIONAL SERVICES BY CHELSEA WOODS HOME OWMERS
SUMMARY: The City Council directed that staff prepare a report based
on research regarding the proposal by Chelsea Woods homeowners
that the City conduct an inspection of the attached dwelling units. This report
deals with the research and conclusion I have conducted with my staff with respect to
the role of the Building Inspection Division and the Codes which are maintained and
enforced by that Division.
I recommend that the information be reviewed carefully and in the context of
observations by the City Attorney and by the Public Safety Department.
1. BACKGROUND:
A fire occurred in one of the townhouse clusters at the Chelsea Woods complex on
Thanksgiving Day and severely damaged several dwelling units in that cluster.
The source of the fire was a prefabricated fireplace and the fire spread from
the originating unit to others in the cluster, apparently through the walls and
attic.
Homeowners in the Chelsea Woods complex have questioned whether the attached
dwellings in this development were built according to the Code, at least with
respect to the fire separation walls and fireplaces (those installed with the
original construction).
The Homeowners Association President has requested the City Council to direct
the inspection of all attached units in the Chelsea Woods complex to determine
whether they were constructed in compliance with the 1973 Building Codes.
2. SHOULD THE CITY UNDERTAKE THE REQUESTED INSPECTIONS?
The policy question of whether the City should respond to the request with the
inspection services sought by the homeowners should be deliberated by the
Council in light of information to be provided by the City Attorney.
=(Z� :�T-
Page two
Memorandum to Assistant City Manager Frank Boyles
January 7, 1987
2. Continued:
I have approached the question from the standpoint of how the City might under-
take the inspections, if the City Council deems it appropriate `to do the
inspections.
The State law and State Building Code provide that the City must conduct certain
inspections of new construction which is authorized under the Code. The Build-
ing Code and the Uniform Housing Code (adopted by reference by the City of
Plymouth) provide that inspections also should be conducted of premises where
there is reasonable cause to believe there exists a condition or violation that
renders the premises unsafe, dangerous, or hazardous.
The City is not otherwise obligated to conduct building or housing inspections
of existing buildings.
The requested inspections should be conducted on behalf of the property owners.
I recommend that a qualified firm or individual be retained to make the inspec-
tions, and to report the findings.
I recommend this because of the limited resources of the City staff, particular-
ly in light of the ongoing inspection load of new construction which is the pri-
mary activity of the Inspection Division at this time. Moreover, the necessary
preparatory and restorative work, i.e., removing and replacing sheetrock and
related materials, is beyond the scope of the duties and expertise of the
Inspection Division personnel.
Also, it seems appropriate to not cast the present City Inspection Staff and the
City Building Official in an adversarial role of determining whether construc-
tion performed at an earlier date, under a different Code, and enforced by a
different staff, was appropriate, adequate, and in compliance with the former
Code.
The credibility of the inspection results would be substantially enhanced,
particularly in the eyes of the homeowners, and of a court, if it were from a
competent third party.
3. WHAT INSPECTION WORK IS INVOLVED?
Homeowners have expressed concern about the design and construction of the fire
separation walls and blocking, with respect to vertical and horizontal fire
spread; and, they have expressed concern about the design and construction of
the prefabricated fireplace units.
Inspection of the fire separation wall design and construction would involve re-
moving an area approximately 16 inches by 16 inches directly through each wall
and examining the composition of the walls and support structure. The opening
would be located between 2 -stud spaces in order that the existing construction
materials could be replaced, or that new materials could be provided. Once re-
paired, the opening would then need to be re -taped and sanded, prior to painting
or other decorative restoration.
Page three
Memorandum to Assistant City Manager Frank Boyles
January 7, 1987
Inspection of the fire separation in the attic
access panel found in each unit, to allow
space. This involves visual verfication of
materials. No physical alteration and repair
space involves entering an attic
for an inspection of each attic
the wall separation design and
should be necessary in this area.
Inspection of the design and construction of the prefabricated fireplaces would
involve removing the exterior sheathing and siding material for each fireplace
chase, approximately 5 ft. above the base of the fireplace opening along the
three sides of the fireplace chase. The inspection would include the clearances
around the chimney; the installation and location of framing components includ-
ing headers; installation of firestopping, if required; and, the setting of the
firebox. The materials would be reinstalled once the inspection investigation
was completed.
Fireplace design and construction would require examination of every unit to
include the determination of whether all units were installed with original
construction, or whether units were installed later or perhaps installed as
replacement units.
The inspection of the separation wall design and construction could be done on a
sample basis, whereby one or possibly two test areas could be examined in each
cluster of units. Inspection of the attic space could be done for each unit.
4. WHAT IS THE ESTIMATED COST OF PERFORMING THE REQUESTED INSPECTIONS?
A precise cost is difficult to set now, because the type of inspection is not
standard and the ease of performing the inspection is not known. Also, the cost
would vary depending upon the resources committed, both in terms of who would do
the inspection and, in terms of the actual manpower required.
There are twenty-five clusters of attached dwelling units in Chelsea Woods and
there are a total of 129 attached dwelling units in Chelsea Woods, inclusive of
the one cluster and four units damaged in the fire. Manpower costs could be
determined as a conservative estimate on a per unit basis, subject to actual
physical discovery and requirements which would become known as the inspections
proceeded.
Two construction companies were contacted for rough cost estimates to do the
preparatory work. The estimates were requested verbally on the basis of doing
one test per cluster or doing one test per dwelling unit.
The preparatory cost per unit on a 25 dwelling unit basis would be $225 to $380
for an approximate cost range for 25 units of $5,500 to $9,500. The preparatory
-osz per unit for 129 dwelling units would be $200 to $344 for a total estimated
range of $25,800 to $44,400 for all 129 units. That is the estimated cost for
the preparatory work alone and it does not include a specific dollar amount for
final finish work when the openings are closed and repaired, i.e., repainting or
replastering, as the case may be.
The work noted above is the preparatory work. The cost of inspection can be
estimated and we obtained verbal rough estimates from two firms which can
conduct such inspections and which would provide an individual report stating
Page four
Memorandum to Assistant City Manager Frank Boyles
January 7, 1987
the results of their investigation. That would include a statement as to
whether the construction met the minimum requirements of the applicable Code.
The estimates were requested on the basis of one test per cluster or on test per
dwelling unit.
The cost to do inspections on 25 dwelling units, i.e., one per cluster, would be
approximately $950 to $2,000; the cost to do an inspection on each of the 129
dwelling units would be approximately $4,850 to $9,000.
5. OTHER SERVICES THAT CAN BE PROVIDED?
The Homeowner Association representative indicated that some of residents had
copies of construction plans at least for their individual units. The City
could assure that available plans are reviwed and evaluated against the require-
ments of the 1973 Building Code.
We can assist the homeowners with the preparation of a quotation request for
professional inspection services. Photocopies of applicable code and other
records relative to Chelsea Woods can be provided; they are public information.
The City does not have copies of the approved construction plans for the Chelsea
Woods units.
6. WHAT IS THE APPARENT INTERPRETATIVE QUESTION ABOUT FIRE SEPARATION WALLS?
The Uniform Building Code required and requires on exterior wall design of a
one-hour fire rating from foundation to roof for detached dwellings, when the
dwelling is closer than three feet to a property line. The Code also requires
and required a separation wall with a fire rating of one-hour between attached
(apartments) dwelling units.
The apparent dilemma for some Building Officials was whether to treat townhouse
attached dwelling units as apartments -- and require a one-hour rated separation
wall between units -- or, as detached dwellings -- and require a one-hour rated
separation wall for each unit, for a total two-hour rated separation between the
units.
If the interpretation were made that townhouses are apartments, a separation
wall with a less restrictive fire rating and design would be found in the wall
construction of a townhouse unit.
This dilemma does not exist today, at least in the City of Plymouth, and has not
for several years. A fire rated separation wall is required for each unit from
foundation to roof.
That is not to say that the apparent interpretation of over a decade ago that
the Chelsea Woods units were apartments, would render those units in violation
of the Code or unsafe.
The actual fire separation construction of all attached units in Chelsea Woods
is not known, except for those units which were damaged by, and, thus, which had
walls exposed by fire.
We do not have knowledge of the specific interpretation by the Building Official
at the time, nor do we have copies of the approved construction plans.
January 13, 1987
Kenneth Plant
Chelsea Woods Home Owners Assoc.
1835 Black Oaks Lane
Plymouth, MN 55447
Thomas Barker
Chelsea Woods Home Owners Assoc.
1505 Yuma Lane
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Ken and Tom:
In accordance with the Council's direction at last night's meeting, we are
anxious to get together with you to talk about how we can most expeditiously
accomplish our objectives as set forth in my January 8, 1987 memorandum
(copy of recommendations page attached). Please contact me at your earliest
convenience in order that we can set a meeting together with the Planning
and Community Development Director and Building Official to review this
subject. It would be helpful if you could begin providing us with typical
plans for the units in order that review may begin as soon as possible. We
look forward to assisting you in your efforts to identify areas where
property owners m,4y make enhancements to the safety of their dwelling units.
Yours vey-,tru
Frank Boyles
Assistant City Manager
FB:dma
attach.
cc: Blair Tremere, Director of Planning and Community Development
Dick Carlquist, Director of Public Safety
Mayor and City Council
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 5592800
c �\, 7 ;—,
January 8, 1987
Page four
1. The Building Inspection Division should assemble all appropriate
Building Code provisions, and related documentation and inter-
pretation issues, and supply them to a Homeowner Association
representative. Prior to the inspection, the Building Official
will be available to meet with Homeowner Association represen-
tatives as time is available to review with them generic
concerns with respect to code issues as they relate to townhouse
and the two memos he has already supplied. This would not
include the on-site inspections or evaluation of units by city
employees.
2. The City's Fire Inspector, who is familiar with the specific
fire prevention needs of Chelsea Woods residents, will tailor
the already scheduled education session to address the specific
concerns of Homeowner Association representatives, including
housekeeping, smoke detectors, exiting drills, fire
extinguishers, alarm and sprinkler systems, and fireplace
maintenance and operation. Follow up sessions and individual
consultation will be made available as time permits to assist
property owners in obtaining the information they need to take
fire prevention measures.
3. The Building Inspection Division will collect the plans avail-
able from the Chelsea Woods Association to assure that the plans
are evaluated against the requirements of the 1973 Building
Code, recognizing that they are not necessarily as -built plans.
This information, together with that provided in Recommendation
No. 1 above will provide the basic data the contractual
inspector will require to perform inspections and should help to
keep inspection costs to a minimum.
4. The Building Inspection Division will assist Homeowner
Association representatives in securing more specific inspection
quotations based upon the actual work which homeowners may be
willing to accomplish themselves to reduce total costs.
Any contract for inspections should be between the Homeowner
Association and private inspection contractor. The Council should
recognize that as a our community ages, requests of a similar nature
will likely arise for whatever reason. The staff does not recommend
financial participation by the City.
A copy of this memorandum together with the attachments have been
provided to Mr. Tom Barker and Mr. Ken Plant of the Chelsea Woods
Homeowners Association. I expect that they will be present at the
meeting to further discuss these matters with the City Council.
FB:Jm
attach
November 8, 1989
teff & Debra Hodroff
2630 Garland Lane North
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Hodroff Family:
0 -
Thank
Thank you for your letter of November 1, addressed to Councilmember Sisk
with regard to your views on two of our programs.
The United States Supreme Court has provided guidance to the public as to
the matter of the separation of church and state. We seek to obey not only
the law, but the interpretation of the Constitution as handed down by our
Supreme Court. I believe the matters you refer to on page 40 of the
November/ December issue of Plymouth on Parade do not violate the law or
rulings of the Supreme Court.
We continually seek to keep in mind the diversity of our community, and
recognize the sensitivities of many with respect to the celebration of
religious events and/or holidays.
The decorating of the old Plymouth Village Hall, or the holiday events
conducted in the building, are not done in a fashion which conveys a
religious theme. Similarly, the decorating of the tree in the Plymouth City
Center is done without any religious connotation and is, in our view,
appropriate.
While I appreciate your sensitivities on these matters, I am not able to
agree that their continuation is either inappropriate, or a violation of the
law.
I am sharing your letter with all members of the City Council to alert them
to your views on this topic.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and concerns with me.
Yours truly,
rmes G. Willis
ci y Manager
OW:kec
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH. MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
All Ages
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be
on hand for an Old
Fashioned Christmas.
Old Fashioned Christmas in Plymouth
Sto.nday. Dec. 10. 2-5 p.m.
"Over the river and through the woods to Grandmother's house we go" It's
not quite Grandma's, but it's close. Visit Santa in the Plymouth Historical
Society Building all decked out for the occasion.
"The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh through the white and drifting
snow;' in Plymouth Creek Park, 3625 Fernbrook Lane.
Even the smells of hot cider and holiday cookies will remind you of
celebrations past. Join your neighbors for holiday stories by Bob Gasch, music
by the Armstrong High School Madrigal singers, old fashioned activities and
fun for children of all ages. There will be a small fee to help defray the cost of
the sleigh ride. _
Trim The Tree At -City Center
If you are looking for a way to celebrate the holidays with your family or youth
group, come meet Santa and join the Plymouth KANI WIN GA Camp Fire
group as its members decorate a holiday tree at the Plymouth City Center,
3400 Plymouth Blvd., from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thurs., Dec. 7.
Individuals, families and area youth groups are welcome. Bring along some
decorations to hang. Handmade ornaments are preferred. Refreshments will
be served. If you will be bringing a large group, please notify Barbara in
advance at 559-3099.
40
JEFFHODROFF
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUATTANT
41,
November 1, 1989
Councilman Jerry Sisk
Plymouth City Council
Plymouth, MN
Dear Councilman Sisk:
Our family was somewhat surprised at our city's apparent
participation in certain holiday activities that seem to be
religious in nature. Enclosed is a copy of page 40 of the
Nov/Dec issue of PLYMOUTH ON PARADE. The two activities listed
on that page certainly celebrate Christmas. Both the
Historical Society and City Center Buildings are the public
places being used.
As a non-Christian family, we think it is insensitive
to use these public places to celebrate Christian Holidays.
While suggesting equal time for other faiths might be a solu-
tion, that wouldn't be fair to others.
We hope you will keep in mind that many of Plymouth's
citizens are members of religious minorities and the use of
public facilities for religious purposes imposes uncomfortable
feelings on those minorities.
We ask that these activities be moved to private settings
and that the City of Plymouth doesn't covertly endorse the
religious activities of one faith over another.
Thanks,'in advance, for your consideration.
Sincerely,
The Jeff & Debra Hodroff Family
608 Tu'CL'e Oaks Center i 15500 Wayzata Boulevard / Wayzata, MN 55391 / Phone (612) 473-9669
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C4_7 HE AA4ERICA^, INSTITUTE AND A41NNESOTA SOCIETY OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS