HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 09-03-1997MINUTES
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 3, 1997
A regular meeting of the Plymouth City Council was called to order by Mayor Tierney at
7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 3400 Plymouth Blvd., on September 3, 1997.
COUNCIL PRESENT: Mayor Tierney; Councilmembers Spigner, Black, Bildsoe, Wold,
Johnson, and Preus.
ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Johnson, Assistant City Manager Lueckert, Public
Works Director Moore, Community Development Director Hurlburt, Park Director
Blank, Public Safety Director Gerdes, Finance Director Hahn, City Attorney Knutson,
and Deputy City Clerk Hoffman.
Item 3 Plymouth Forum
No one spoke at the Forum.
Item 4-A Community Education Services Citation
Anne Vermeer and Jim Brandl presented a plaque to recognize outstanding
collaboration over the past several years between the City of Plymouth and the
Wayzata school district.
Item 4-B Announcement of Black and White Squad Cars
Public Safety Director Gerdes presented the new look of the City's squad cars.
All squad cars will be black and white. Public Safety Director Gerdes also
apprised the Council of the addition of the opticon feature to the cars, to be
used for maneuvering through semaphore controlled intersections.
Public Safety Director Gerdes cited the 26 -year term of service and announced
the retirement of Sergeant Ron Foreman. Mayor Tierney praised Sergeant
Foreman's work and gave him a certificate of recognition for his work.
Item 5 Approve Agenda
Councilmember Spigner requested a review of the time constraints given the
material on the agenda. Councilmembers agreed to work efficiently, but would
be prepared to extend the time.
Motion was made by Mayor Tierney, motion seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to amend the agenda to include under Staff Reports and Discussion
items from the August 29 Council Information Memo regarding the
Minnehaha Creek Watershed District Steering Committee, and the check from
the Workers' Compensation Reinsurance Association. Motion carried, seven
ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 2
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember
Spigner, to approve the agenda as amended. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6 Consent Agenda
Councilmember Johnson asked to comment on Item 6-C before approving the
Consent Agenda. She commended developers and residents for working
together to successfully move through the development process.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to approve the Consent Agenda. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-A Approve Minutes
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to approve the minutes of the July 1, July 16, July 29 Special
Meetings, August 6 and August 20 Regular Meeting, August 18 and August
20 Special Meetings. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-B Approve Disbursements
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-492 APPROVING
DISBURSEMENTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDING AUGUST 22,1997.
Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-C The Damone Group. Planned Unit Development (PUD) General Plan
Amendment for Property Located at Vicksburg Lane and 22nd Avenue
97094)
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-493 APPROVING PLANNED UNIT
DEVELOPMENT GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT FOR THE
DAMONE GROUP FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE
SOUTHEAST CORNER OF VICKSBURG LANE AND 22ND AVENUE
97094). Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt ORDINANCE 97-17 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER 21 OF THE CITY CODE TO AMEND PUD 81-1 FOR
PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF
VICKSBURG LANE AND 22ND AVENUE (97094). Motion carried, seven
ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 3
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-494 APPROVING FINDINGS OF
FACT FOR AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT FOR
PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF
VICKSBURG LANE AND 22"D AVENUE (97094). Motion carried, seven
ayes.
Item 6-D Ice Center. Reduction in Retainage from 5% to 1% for Commercial
Refrigerator Systems, Inc.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-495 REQUEST FOR PAYMENT
NO. 7, ICE CENTER PROJECT NO. 5041. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-E Rejection of Police Ordered Towing and Impoundment Proposals
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-496 REJECTION OF THE
PROPOSALS SUBMITTED FOR THE POLICE ORDERED TOWING
AND IMPOUNDMENT OF VEHICLES. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-F Doboszenski & Sons Irrigation Contract. Ice Arena Change Order
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-497 APPROVING CHANGE
ORDER NO.3 TO DOBOSZENSKI & SONS. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-G Street Name Change in the Bass Lake Heights Subdivision
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt ORDINANCE 97-18 AN ORDINANCE CHANGING
THE STREET NAME IN THE BASS LAKE HEIGHTS SUBDIVISION.
Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-H Application for Lawful Gambling Exemption for Plymouth Firefighters
Relief Association
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-498 FINDING NO OBJECTION TO
LAWFUL GAMBLING EXEMPTION FOR PLYMOUTH
FIREFIGHTERS' RELIEF ASSOCIATION. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-I Reduction in Required Financial Guarantee
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-499 REDUCING REQUIRED
FINANCIAL GUARANTEE, HARRISON PLACE ON BASS CREEK
ADDITION (94051). Motion carried, seven ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 4
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-500 REDUCING REQUIRED
FINANCIAL GUARANTEE, HICKORY HILLS ADDITION (94091).
Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-501 REDUCING REQUIRED
FINANCIAL GUARANTEE, NANTERRE ADDITION (94093). Motion
carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-502 REDUCING REQUIRED
FINANCIAL GUARANTEE, MISSION VIEW ADDITION (94158).
Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-J Reimbursable Payment to Diversified Construction
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-503 APPROVING PAYMENT TO
DIVERSIFIED CONSTRUCTION OF MINNEAPOLIS. Motion carried,
seven ayes.
Item 6-K1 County Road 9/Rockford Road Utility and Street Improvements, City
Project No. 3010
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-504 REQUEST FOR PAYMENT
NO. 11 AND FINAL, COUNTY ROAD 9/ROCKFORD ROAD, CITY
PROJECT NO. 3010. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-K2 Westbranch 3'd Addition - Phase 1 Utility and Street Improvements, City
Project No. 4015
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-505 REQUEST FOR PAYMENT
NO.6 AND FINAL, WESTBRANCH 3RD ADDITION - PHASE 1, CITY
PROJECT NO. 4015. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-L Peony Lane Street and Bridge Improvements, City Project No. 5002
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-506 APPROVING REVISED
CHANGE ORDER NO. 3, PEONY LANE - STREET AND BRIDGE
IMPROVEMENTS, CITY PROJECT NO. 5002. Motion carried, seven
ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 5
Item 6-M Westbranch Yd Additions - Phase II, City Project No. 4015
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-507 REQUEST FOR PAYMENT
NO. 4, WESTBRANCH 3`D ADDITION - PHASE II, CITY PROJECT
NO. 4015. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-N Supplemental Agreement with Hennepin County, City Project No. 4002
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-508 APPROVING
SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT, COUNTY ROAD 9
IMPROVEMENTS, CITY PROJECT NO. 4002. Motion carried, seven
ayes.
Item 6-01 Beautiful Savior Church. Certificate of Exemption, Wetland
Conservation Act. (97061)
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-509 AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR
TO SIGN THE CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION FROM THE
WETLAND CONSERVATION ACT, BEAUTIFUL SAVIOR CHURCH
97061), SW NE SECTION 10, T118N, R 22W. Motion carried, six ayes,
Councilmember Black nay.
Item 6-02 Town & Country Homes. Wetland Mitigation and Replacement Plan
97011)
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-510 APPROVING WETLAND
MITIGATION AND REPLACEMENT PLAN, TOWN & COUNTRY
HOMES (97011), SW% NE% SECTION 17, T118N, R 22W. Motion
carried, seven ayes.
Item 6-03 The Village at Bassett Creek. Wetland Mitigation and Replacement Plan
97080)
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-511 APPROVING WETLAND
MITIGATION AND REPLACEMENT PLAN, THE VILLAGE AT
BASSETT CREEK (97080), SE NW SECTION 36, T118N, R 22W.
Motion carried, six ayes, Councilmember Black nay.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 6
Item 6-P Ordinance Regulating Graffiti Cleanup
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt ORDINANCE 97-19 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER IX OF THE CITY ORDINANCES TO CONTROL
GRAFFITI ON PUBLIC OR PRIVATE PROPERTY. Motion carried,
seven ayes.
Item 6-Q Tobacco License Approval for Plymouth Superette
Motion was made by Councilinember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-512 APPROVING TOBACCO
LICENSE FOR PLYMOUTH SUPERETTE. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 7-A Public Hearing for 1997 Delinquent Utility Fees
Finance Director Hahn explained the unpaid fees and penalties. He explained
the assessment roll and recommended passage.
Mayor Tierney opened the public hearing at 7:22. No one spoke and the public
hearing was closed.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember
Spigner, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-513 ADOPTING ASSESSMENTS,
1997 UNPAID ANNUAL STREET LIGHTING FOR UNIMPROVED
PARCELS AND UNPAID ANNUAL RECYCLING FEES. Motion
carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember
Spigner, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-514 ADOPTING ASSESSMENTS,
1997 DELINQUENT WATER, SEWER, RECYCLING, AND STREET
LIGHTING SERVICE CHARGES. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Council directed staff to place on the October 8 Study Session a discussion of
ways to encourage residents to pay assessments and fees early.
Item 7-B Public Hearing for Street Closing — Juneau Lane/14' Avenue Near Lions
Park
Public Works Director Moore explained that the public hearing was required
to consider whether to close a part of 14" Avenue near Juneau Lane. He
summarized the options for traffic control in the neighborhood east of Parkers
Lake. He reported that traffic studies and counts done in the neighborhood
show that most of the traffic is within speed limits for the neighborhood
streets in question. He stated that the staff recommendation is not to place
stops signs or close streets, but to paint lane markings for bike routes, which
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 7
would also have the effect of narrowing the traffic lanes and enable the
establishment of 25 mph speed limit under County guidelines.
Before opening the public hearing, Mayor Tierney noted the large number of
requests to comment. She said that, in an effort to minimize unnecessary
speakers, she would like a brief response on the staff recommendation from
Councilmembers.
Councilmember Johnson stated that she wanted to be certain any decision
would be favored by all residents, not just the petitioners, because the
recommendation from staff was a different course of action than that requested
by the petitioners.
Mayor Tierney stated that she supported staff recommendation not to close
streets or place stop signs, but to use bike lane markers and lowered speed
limits.
Councilmember Johnson asked residents to give an indication whether they
supported the staff recommendation. She said she was in favor of the staff
plan, adopting the plan that would be least detrimental to traffic movement.
Councilmember Black stated that she was inclined toward the staff
recommendation. She said she wanted to hear from those residents who did
not support the staff recommendation and why they did not.
Councilmember Bildsoe said he supported the staff recommendation.
Councilmember Wold spoke in favor of the staff recommendation. He
clarified the public hearing process to speakers, saying that while they had a
right to speak, the Council requests speakers try to limit themselves to 5
minutes.
Mayor Tierney opened the public hearing at 7:40 p.m. ,with a request that
speakers limit remarks to whether or not they support the staff
recommendation and why.
John Sawina, 14520 14`h Avenue N., said he believed at issue is what is best
for the entire neighborhood. He requested a resolution that would protect the
safety of neighborhood. He said he didn't believe a bike trail or speed controls
alone will be enough. He said he supports at least one stop sign.
Ross Tolbert, 1435 Kingsview Lane, said he believed the issue is dividing the
neighborhood. He recommended one stop sign at 146'& Juneau, but said he
supports the marked bike trail and reduced speed limits.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 8
Marshall Browne, 1301 Kingsview Lane, stated he was concerned about the
road width if the bike path is striped. He said it makes for a very narrow road.
He asked that the Council consider alternatives to where the bike path may go,
but he said he opposed a stop sign, which would bring added traffic noise. He
asked for a decision that ensured the greatest safety for the most number of
residents.
David Anderson, 1555 Juneau Lane. He stated his concern that it would be
difficult to slow down traffic coming off County Road 6 into the
neighborhood. He asked to consider moving the traffic to another route.
Henry Willegalle, 1525 Juneau Lane spoke about the traffic volume and speed
levels. He said he would support the recommendation but asked the Council to
go back and study the idea of a cul-de-sac somewhere in the neighborhood.
Pat Ujifusa, 1315 Harbor Lane, said she would like to see lanes marked, and
the placement of additional warning signs to alert pedestrian path users to
oncoming traffic.
Richard Schmidt, 14310 13' Avenue N., said he supported the staff
recommendation. He said he believed that closing the street would not solve
the problem.
Leslie Bocksell, 14505 14`h Avenue N., deferred to the next speaker.
Wendy Friedmeyer, 14425 13`' Avenue N., deferred to the next speaker.
David Tierney, 14730 13' Avenue N., stated that the trail path is confusing.
He said he believed traffic and speeding issues remain a concern, but he
endorsed the recommendation.
Katherine Erickson, 14655 13"' Avenue N., said she supported marking the
bike paths, but suggested looking at having the paths follow Fernbrook Lane
rather than go through the neighborhood.
Kathleen Gerdes, 14635 13`h Avenue N., deferred to the next speaker.
Jack Churchill, 14615 13`h Place N., supported the staff proposal. He said he
saw the neighborhood drawn together through the process.
Marsha Videen, 1151 Kingsview Lane, said she supported the
recommendation. She asked that the Council study road widths. She expressed
concerns over emergency access if a cul-de-sac installed.
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September 3, 1997
Page 9
Carl Tuura, 14620 13`h Place N., supported the recommendation. He said some
improvements could be made by seeking other routes for the path to be placed
on less traveled routes. He also requested an examination of speed and safety
issues at the corner of County Road 6 and Juneau Lane.
Ken Peterson, 14820 13' Place N., supported earlier speakers.
Michael Undland, 14523 13th Avenue N., supported the staff recommendation.
George Waldo, 1390 Kingsview Lane, asked that the Council consider the
increase of traffic every year and suggested the City look at new routing.
Henry Willegalle asked about the permissibility of street parking once the bike
lanes are striped. Mayor Tierney stated that parking will be allowed on the
streets.
At 8:15 p.m., Mayor Tierney closed the public hearing.
Manager Johnson said that under State guidelines, if the bike trail is not
painted, the speed limit could not be reduced.
Public Works Director Moore stated that two standard traffic lanes would
remain after street marking. He said the streets involved in the bicycle plan are
lower volume traffic routes.
Councilmember Black asked about traffic volume and the number of people
who use the route in a non -motorized form. She suggested considering other
options if the higher pedestrian count was a factor. Public Works Director
Moore said no pedestrian counts had been done. He noted that other trails are
used as well through the neighborhood.
Motion was made by Councilmember Wold, seconded by Councilmember
Spigner, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-515 ESTABLISH A MARKED
BIKE LANE ON THE DESIGNATED BIKE ROUTE FROM THE
LUCE LINE TRAIL NORTH TO COUNTY ROAD 6 AND ESTABLISH
A 25 M.P.H. SPEED LIMIT ON THIS SECTION OF ROADWAY.
Councilmembers thanked the speakers, and said cooperation needs to begin in
the neighborhood, with an attempt to slow traffic down by painting and
reducing speeds. They said they supported the recommendation for the street
markings and reduced speed limit.
Motion carried, seven ayes.
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September 3, 1997
Page 10
Council directed staff to review conditions in a few months and report back
with some alternatives for pedestrian and bike trails through the
neighborhood.
At 8:29 Mayor Tierney ordered a 5 -minute break.
Item 8-A Rottlund Co., Ine. Land Use Guide Plan Amendment, Rezoning,
Preliminary Plat, Interim Use Permit and PUD General Plan for the
Northwest Quadrant of Highway 55 and Revere Lane (97080)
Community Development Director Hurlburt presented the requests for the
Village of Bassett Creek. She summarized the four resolutions and one
ordinance before the Council for approval. She outlined the land use plans and
street patterns, along with pedestrian paths and sidewalks. She explained the
environmental issues for the proposal, including placement of buffers and
setbacks for buildings, as well as soil replacement due to soil problems at the
site, and the wetland replacement plan. She reviewed the interim use permit
request for reduced parking for townhomes at the site. She explained that a
public hearing on tax increment financing for the project was placed at this
point in the agenda also, because it tied in with the development project. She
explained how this type of project would contribute to affordable housing
goals for the City. She summarized concerns about traffic and parking
expressed by residents to the north of the site, and south of Highway 55.
Housing Supervisor Goldsmith stated that the tax increment financing (TIF)
was needed to cover the cost of soil corrections. He said the use of TIF money
to develop the land for anything but housing would be financially impractical.
He outlined a construction timetable based on HUD and Metropolitan Council
deadlines for funding. He said staff recommended TIF funding at a reduced
amount from earlier projections.
Community Development Director Hurlburt introduced Richard Palmiter,
from Rottlund Homes, Inc., and Architect Tim Witten, to present development
and architectural plans for the parcel.
Doug Mayo, Director of Housing Development for Common Bond
Communities, described the building plans and residential services to enhance
independent living for senior citizens. He said the development would be
owned by a nonprofit corporation, the Bassett Creek Homeowners
Association.
Councilmember Spigner discussed with Doug Mayo the criteria for resident
selection. He said the criteria is based on age and income limits on a first
registered basis. He explained Common Bond's marketing plans, and said if a
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 11
preference is given to local residents, the selection criteria will have to be
modified. He said six townhomes on one side of the building would be
purchased with HUD money, as a separate organization from the seniors
residence and the Rottlund project.
Councilmember Preus requested more information about soil conditions.
Richard Palmiter stated that soil removal will be extensive, but is not expected
to delay the project.
Item 8 -Al Public Hearing on Tax Increment Financing Plan for TIF (Housing)
District No. 7-5, Village at Bassett Creek, Rottlund Homes, Inc.
Mayor Tierney opened the public hearing at 9:27 p.m.
Councilmembers advised the speakers at the public hearing to confine remarks
to the proposal to provide tax increment financing for the project.
Daryl Tesch, 1064 Trenton Circle N., deferred to the next speaker.
Mark Nagel, 1032 Trenton Circle N., identified himself as a Trenton Ponds
resident speaking on behalf of the homeowners' board. He said the
homeowners association had concerns about preservation of animal life and
the environmental quality of the site. He said the association did not view this
as an appropriate use of TIF funding. He questioned linking the senior citizen
housing development to the rest of the project.
Jim Schurz, 1167 Trenton Circle N., said he believed financing for the senior
housing project was being used as a lynch pin on which to gain support for the
rest of the project. He said he believed traffic and parking issues had not been
adequately addressed by the developers.
David Crain, 13200 3V Avenue N., chair of the Plymouth HRA, praised
efforts to diversify Plymouth's housing and called the TIF appropriate in this
part of the city. He said he supported efforts such as this. He said Plymouth
residents need this housing opportunity because there will be few more like it
to come along. He said the pricing of the Rottlund units was consistent with
guidelines from the Metropolitan Council. Lower income residents might
qualify for the units, but would not consider them because public
transportation options are limited for this area. He said there was one
abstention on an HRA vote supporting the development. He said the
abstention came from a conflict of interest. He stated that the HRA supported
both elements of the development project as being important to housing in
Plymouth.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 12
Sister Clarice Schmidt, 105 Forestview Lane, deferred to the next speaker.
Fred Lee, 1105 Vagabond Lane, stated that he had been asked to serve on the
Common Bond Communities Board. He spoke of need for senior housing, and
that this was a modest project, but much needed.
Pauline Milner, 11333 Fairfield Road, Minnetonka, said that when she was
forced to seek a new home, she found the Plymouth Towne Square seniors
apartments were too expensive. She said that the Common Bond housing
project in Minnetonka, Boulevard Gardens, was a quarter of the rental fee
charged by Plymouth Towne Square. She said she supported the project
development.
Mayor Tierney said the Council had received letters from Sara Middlestaedt,
Seniors Coordinator for the City of Plymouth, and from Thomas Johnson, of
General Mills, supporting the request for more senior housing.
Harley Greenberg, 1000 Trenton Circle N., said he opposed the use of the
money to remove the soil and trees. He said he supported leaving the area as a
natural preserve.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus seconded by Councilmember
Bildsoe to suspend the rules and extend the meeting until 10:30. p.m.
Councilmember Spigner requested the extension time be set at 11:00 p.m.
Councilmember Preus stated the Council should take the extensions one step
at a time. He reiterated that public comments be kept to the issue of TIF
funding.
Motion to suspend the rules passed, six ayes, Councilmember Spigner nay.
Marshall Rappaport, 1044 Trenton Circle, said he was opposed to any
funding program that would cost the City $300,000. He said he was in favor
of the senior housing plan.
Leo Rogers, 1076 Trenton Circle, stated that he believed TIF programs were
intended for commercial industrial development, and he believed that
Plymouth residents will have to pick up the tab for 8-10 years.
Earl Witcraft, 1180 Trenton Circle N., asked the Council to find if there was
any precedent to the use of TIF funds for housing development such as this.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 13
Bonnie Huettl, 320 Quaker Lane, said her concerns were about plowing and
safety issues surrounding parking in the private streets. She said she also
believed townhouses were more appealing to a younger market, rather than
single level homes that would appeal to older buyers. She said she supported
diversity in housing, but did not want to subsidize the project.
Daryl Tesch, 1064 Trenton Circle N., said older home buyers want single
level living. He said he also questioned whether the land was being sold at the
lowest price possible. He stated he believed private street parking will create a
problem for emergency vehicles.
Lynn Markey, 230 Quaker Lane, said he opposed his tax dollars going to
support a profit-making venture.
Robert Maddaus, 1028 Trenton Circle, said he was concerned about parking
problems that may arise in the neighborhood.
Mayor Tierney closed the public hearing at 10:17 p.m.
Community Development Director Hurlburt stated that on -street parking
would only be for guests, and that parking on the loop drive would be
enforced the same way it is at Trenton Ponds. She said guests at the
development would be more likely to park in Waterford Plaza than use
Trenton Ponds. She said fire lanes would be posted.
Richard Palmiter of Rottlund Homes stated that market studies show this type
of home will sell well. He said in Minnetonka TIF money was used for a first
time homebuyer program.
Housing Supervisor Goldsmith said the Legislature has made it difficult to use
TIF money for economic development on a site such as this.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Mayor Tierney,
to suspend the rules and extend the meeting until 11:30 p.m. Motion failed,
five nays, two ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember
Spigner, to suspend the rules and extend the meeting until 11:00. Motion
carried, seven ayes.
Housing Supervisor Goldsmith stated that Hennepin County's position on the
use of TIF money for housing was that it should be a financing tool of last
resort. He said that Common Bond could not afford to purchase the land and
do the necessary soil work. He said the TIF money will go to Rottlund Homes
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 14
to do the soil correction, and to sell the land to Common Bond at a price it can
afford. He said the senior housing, along with the six low-income family
housing, and the moderate income townhomes meet the diversity requirements
of the Metropolitan Council.
Richard Palmiter stated that HUD approved only 46 units of low income
senior housing.
Councilmember Spigner said she believed more issues need to be resolved,
and that the issue should be tabled.
Doug Mayo of Common Bond stated that there was no delay planned in the
development of the senior housing and they could possibly lose the HUD
funding.
Public Works Director Moore said that the wetland areas to the north of the
site would not be affected by soil removal or wetland drainage. He stated that
monitoring wells were placed in an effort to avoid draining wetlands.
Community Development Director Hurlburt said that the City's wetland
ordinance came after the development of Trenton ponds, and that regulations
are now different. She said unless the City purchases the land for open space,
it must allow reasonable land use.
Housing Supervisor Goldsmith stated that the property was originally on the
market for $2.2 million. The price was eventually dropped down to $965,000,
and is considered the best dollar possible for purchase.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson to suspend the rules and extend the meeting to 11:30. Motion carried,
seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, seconded by Mayor Tierney, to
adopt RESOLUTION 97-516 APPROVING LAND USE GUIDE PLAN
AMENDMENT FOR THE ROTTLUND COMPANY, INC. FOR
PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE NORTHWEST QUADRANT OF
HIGHWAY 55 AND REVERE LANE (96140). Motion carried, six ayes,
Spigner nay.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 15
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, seconded by Councilmember
Tierney, to adopt ORDINANCE 97-20 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER 21 OF THE CITY CODE TO CLASSIFY CERTAIN LANDS
LOCATED IN THE NORTHWEST QUADRANT OF HIGHWAY 55
AND REVERE LANE AS PUD (PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT)
97080). Motion carried, six ayes, Spigner nay.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, seconded by Councilmember
Tierney, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-517 APPROVING PRELIMINARY
PLAT AND PUD GENERAL PLAN FOR THE ROTTLUND
COMPANY, INC. FOR PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE
NORTHWEST QUADRANT OF HIGHWAY 55 AND REVERE LANE
97080). Motion carried, six ayes, Spigner nay.
Councilmember Spigner stated her opposition to approval of the plan.
Councilmember Black stated that she believed some sort of TIF funding
would be needed for the site no matter what sort of project is approved. She
said the City needs to provide affordable housing for the people for whom the
City is providing jobs.
Councilmember Johnson said she supported the plan. She said she believed
that the TIF funding will benefit the City in the end, and not just serve as a
subsidy to the development.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Councilmember
Preus to vote separately on approval of Findings of Fact for the Rezoning and
the approval of the interim use permit for the Rottlund Co., Inc. Motion
carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, seconded by Mayor Tierney, to
adopt RESOLUTION 97-518 APPROVING FINDINGS OF FACT FOR
REZONING FOR THE ROTTLUND COMPANY, INC., FOR
PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE NORTHWEST QUADRANT OF
HIGHWAY 55 AND REVERE LANE (97080). Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, seconded by Mayor Tierney, to
adopt RESOLUTION 97-519 APPROVING INTERIM USE PERMIT
FOR THE ROTTLUND COMPANY, INC. FOR PROPERTY
LOCATED IN THE NORTHWEST QUADRANT OF HIGHWAY 55
AND REVERE LANE (97080).
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 16
Councilmembers Preus and Johnson stated they would vote against the
resolution.
The Mayor and Councilmembers asked for information addressing guest
parking and off-street parking totals. Community Development Director
Hurlburt stated that the City's new zoning ordinances deal with parking issues
more directly than in the past, and they can't make comparisons to past
references. She said that the interim use permit will allow customization of
such projects as this without lowering standards of the neighborhood.
Councilmember Black stated that she believe the issues of guest and off-street
parking were adequately addressed, and that she would favor the permit. She
said that in the Trenton ponds neighborhood, the streets are private and
unavailable for outsiders to park on.
Motion carried, four ayes, Spigner, Johnson, and Preus nay.
Motion was made by Councilmember Wold, seconded by Councilmember
Black, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-520 RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING
TAX INCREMENT FINANCING DISTRICT 7-5, AND APPROVING
AND ADOPTING THE TAX INCREMENT FINANCING PLAN
RELATED THERETO.
Councilmember Preus stated that he believed this resolution contains the most
important element of the project, and that this is a relatively important policy
decision for the City. He said that while not all needs will be satisfied in the
project, he will vote for it.
Councilmember Spigner stated that she believed this project doesn't offer
great enough affordable housing, and she opposed the City's involvement.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson to suspend the rules and extend the meeting to 11:45. Motion carried,
six ayes, Councilmember Spigner nay.
Motion to approve the resolution carried, six ayes, Councilmember Spigner
nay.
Item 8-B Town and Country Homes, Inc. Land Use Guide Plan Amendment for
Property Located in the Northwest Quadrant of Highway 55 and
Dunkirk Lane (97011) (96188)
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Wold, to table the item until the Regular Council Meeting of September 10.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 17
Councilmember Bildsoe requested the postponement of a decision on this
issue due to the late hour, and because several neighborhood residents wished
to address the Council on the matter.
Council discussed the issues surrounding whether to table the item.
Councilmember Preus called the question.
Motion to table carried, four ayes, Spigner, Black and Tierney nay.
Item 8-C Approval of 1998 Preliminary Budget and Levy
Assistant Manager Lueckert presented an outline of the preliminary budget
and levy which must be adopted before September 15.
Motion was made by Councilmember Spigner, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-521 PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX
LEVIES FOR TAXES PAYABLE IN 1998. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Spigner, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-522 ADOPTING PROPOSED 1998
BUDGETS. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Spigner, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-523 SETTING TRUTH IN
TAXATION PUBLIC HEARING DATES FOR 1998 TAX LEVY. Motion
carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Spigner, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to adopt RESOLUTION 97-524 SETTING COUNCIL
MEETING START TIME FOR DECEMBER 3, 1997 REGULAR CITY
COUNCIL MEETING AND DECEMBER 17,1997 REGULAR CITY
COUNCIL MEETING. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Item 9-A Report on the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District Steering Committee
Mayor Tierney directed staff to report back to the Council on developments of
the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District Steering Committee.
Item 9-B Workers' Compensation Reinsurance Assoc. Surplus Distribution Check
Finance Director Hahn reported to the Council that the $126,509.91 check
represents Plymouth's share of excess funds deposited in the organization. He
said the check will be deposited into the City's risk management fund for the
City's self-insurance program and for covering liability and legal costs. He
stated that the risk management fund has been very successful, and that the
interest alone from the fund pays for insurance premiums for the City.
Regular Council Meeting
September 3, 1997
Page 18
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adjourn the meeting at 11:40 p.m. Motion carried, seven ayes.