HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 06-09-19880
CITY O�
PUMOUTR
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
June 10, 1988
RECYCLING CASH DRAWING
June 9: No Winner
Next week: $500 Cash Award
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS.....
1. TOWN MEETING -- Monday, June 13, 7:00 p.m. Town Meeting for Area 1
residents in City Council Chambers. A copy of the letter and agenda
mailed to Area 2 residents is attached. (M-1)
2. BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS -- Tuesday, June 14, 7:30
p.m. The Board of Zoning Adjustments and Appeals will meet in the
City Council Chambers. Agenda attached. (M-2)
3. HRA MEETING -- Thursday, June 16, 6:30 p.m. The Housing and
Redevelopment Authority will meet in the City Council Chambers.
Agenda attached. (M-3)
4. NEXT COUNCIL MEETING -- Monday, June 20, 7:30 p.m. Regular City
Council meeting.
5. CALENDARS -- Meeting calendars for June and July are attached.
M-5
FOR YOUR INFORMATION ...
1. LEAGUE OF MINNESOTA CITIES (LMC) ANNUAL MEETING - Councilmember
Zitur and I attended the 75th annual meeting of the League of
Minnesota Cities this week in St. Paul. As the Council is aware, I
was recommended to nomination to the Board of Directors and have now
been elected to a three-year term on the Board.
2. WEST MEDICINE LAKE DRIVE PETITION - Attached is a petition I
received from Mr. Dan Wja, 1429 West Medicine Lake Drive, Thursday
evening. Mr. Wja will be present at the Town Meeting Monday
evening, along with some of his neighbors to discuss their interest
in having improvements made to West Medicine Lake Drive. (I-2)
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMORANDUM
'L.-- O , nn.
(M-1)
TOWN MEETING AGENDA
AREA TWO
June 13, 1988
7:00 p.m.
I. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
A. 10th Avenue/frontage road improvements.
B. Xenium Lane connection to Northwest Boulevard
C. 1990 sewer C.I.P.
II. PARKS
A. Heritage Neighborhood Park
B. West Medicine Lake Park
C. Trails
III. DEVELOPMENT
A. Waterford Office Park and Plaza
B. Marcus Development - Plymouth Point
C. Northwest Business Campus
D. Prime West
IV. PUBLIC SAFETY
A. Police/Fire Report
B. Neighborhood Watch Program
C. Animal Control
V. OTHER ITEMS
A. Public Transportation Feedback - Plymouth Metrolink
B. Local Government Cable Access Channel 7
C. Recycling Program
D. Sprinkling Restrictions
E. The Property Tax Pie
AGENDA
Board of Zoning Adjustments
and Appeals
Tuesday, June 14, 1988
WHERE: Plymouth City Center
Council Chambers
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
1. CALL TO ORDER 7:30 P.M.
2. ROLL CALL
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES May 24, 1988
4. NEW BUSINESS
A. Cyrus Berndt. Variance from the front yard setback for the construction
of an addition for property located at 2500 Magnolia Lane North. (06-
01-88).
5. OLD BUSINESS
A. Jerome Begin. Variance from the Shoreland Management setbacks and front
yard setback for property located at 5590 Juneau Lane North. (01-01-88)
6. ADJOURNMENT
AGENDA
PLYMOUTH HRA
REGULAR MEETING
JUNE 16, 1988
6:30 P.M.
I. Roll Call
II. Approval of Minutes for May 5, 1988 Meeting
III. Section 8 Program
IV. Home Improvement Grant Program
V. Senior Citizen Housing Site
VI. House Doctor Program, Final Report
VII. Adjournment
f � V
N N O
(X
In
H
WI
z W'
co V•V
r n .�. N N
W 2
6 H
I
i
O
U
0 c uPL4
W
N O K
oda
rl
� � N
i
w
1-4
w
i
cn
C
o•• o
U
u
'No
z
En
�n
O�
W"
H"'
to c� x
N N
N
I
M
aH
aH.
OGI v =a'r„
U
U O z
a
U
O
zo�
O
I
O
•�
U
E-4OU
,. 00 N
N N
OOUOU
i
to vb
O U
00
C1
o"'
ELI
wazui
z^�
z�
zp"�
�CMD
a-:�u�
w a
P4 r�
f � V
N
N N O
In
H
WI
z W'
co V•V
r n .�. N N
W 2
6 H
Z
�::)
O
U
0 c uPL4
W
N O K
oda
rl
� � N
i
1-4
cn
C
o•• o
U
a
En
�n
to c� x
N N
I
P� W
Ct
OGI v =a'r„
�y
a
zo�
a
I
•�
U
E-4OU
,. 00 N
N N
OOUOU
N
z W'
_H
O
U
W
oda
o•• o
pq 1� U
P� W
zo�
a
I
•�
U
E-4OU
O
OOUOU
A'
l vrn
O U
ELI
wazui
z�
N
M- -
c
"° N CN N O
„a,
cz a
�r
;7"
H
�L=
Cn 6]
x x
p
cz
Iw w:2:a N w a N
60:4 oz
rz o �w •o
a^U U
W cn cn
W a
p
Vl
CZ a C 0
!^d xoa oa
ri i� U H M �c'ou 0 [`
.v H0 zMa N N z •'a
w w U w U
z w
H p_1
i -o
rA
caa�
�CC)
O •• O
pqr- U
U
to D NH W 0 R5 H W
o
N U
N A WW z 1'� W pL)0Lj' a+l .0OU
14.
H U z a U H H
x�6'�a��w�
i
co of M VN M
V) ✓nom
V) .". N
-T a
June, 1988
T0: Mayor Virgil Schneider and
Members of the Plymouth City Council
We, the undersigned concerned citizens of Plymouth, present
this petition to exhibit our strong desire for the re-routing
of West Medicine Lake Drive away from the frontage of
Medicine Lake.
The portion of West Medicine Lake Drive abutting the lake is
regularly used by joggers, bikers and people just strolling
to enjoy the beauty of the lake. Many families in homes on
the Drive include small children. This road is heavily
traveled by motor vehicles, often times traveling at high
speeds. This presents a clear danger to our families and the
community at large.
This roadway would provide an excellent site for walking,
jogging and bike paths. Such a facility would be an
excellent asset to the city and, at the same time, eliminate
the dangerous threat posed by the high volume of traffic.
We urge you to take whatever steps necessary to begin such a
project.
Resp2x.t,fully submitted,
Name
Address
173 7 ZJ
Phone #
14 35 -� y�
Name
Addresd
i
Phone #
� anbl. � ,._ 17 a� E v Ff2LR6C W tJ
Name
Addresg
-C;;
Phone #
LG�
Fb,� ((moi u). MxI,',, �L. D,-. SL- -10 (0
s- y
PUBLIC NOTICE
PLEASE DO NOT PATRONIZE
PUBLISHING COMPANYI."
(DIVISION OF GUY GANNETT MINNESOTA PUBLICATIONS)
Post Publishing Company, of New Hope, Minnesota, has recently sold
its newspapers to a new owner: Guy Gannett Publishing Company. The
new owner has implemented the following terms and conditions of employ-
ment for its union -printer composing room employees:
• A wage cut of $4.40 per hour within a year.
• Elimination of union members' work jurisdiction.
• A starting rate for new hires of $5.50 per hour.
• Massive cuts in Employer contributions for
Health and Welfare insurance premiums.
The affected employees have served this Company well for many years
and are now workinunder the Company's severely regressive conditions.
The Union has filefunfair labor practice charges against the Company
and is contemplating other actions.
I am asking you for your support. As an advertiser, subscriber or con-
cerned member of the Community, you could demonstrate your
repuggnnance for the Company's unfair treatment of these employees by
withdrawing your patronage from Post Publishing Company's newspapers
until such time as this dispute is resolved.
Paul!q.
President
)aeknerl
MINNEAPOLIS -ST. PAUL TYPOGRAPHICAL UNION NO. 30
N N S S N C • � �.i � .D y v y�
W
EWcc
o b� ti p 5t'o a
a[ o vi o a�.rr� o Ca y v cC
U L p V to
00
o
cx E z 0 �� �w5 � aL> oo�
Of
+ c�C�+ �A� U O r+C13 ,
oa>ao�it L �-mo
N U W � ��."'.'«7 CC orJ" 3� ,
cl
'Lop ca5co
i a y ccE�we�
y Q93�::oiv�
•- y L .p c L 61 •,
M� 26 %q g� �.5 �F �8 > 1.01
c�t� cod T on g nk u
�0y m � d
w5! 2 >'� 0 d � h rq O'Crz
c
CZ
19C7�
u 7 c
~� 7 y � oy �yC5 3
O t0 CO
Cca
a� r Y.
r+ C CC L C4 L 4 G
czO C GS
ICE E���
Cc,h Cb L C O, cC w
o§Ena Y'c oOOiw L
w
o 'v rn
s C,3 cu ,� w = o �
ac v o S u �-2
C (U " c°
m c •5�� 000n
CIOE"����3� a3 �
cj
i �' v rJ .�., t>y Co,
V! a L y� m � 0 lu cu _� �
o t0W m ti �0 4> a G•g«;
am m^ 0 3 N ca 5 '�� oo�C� c° •'
>,.0 O G w {
y � ��", wcz
m�� W any
ou 3 o cv [1
L L CF
a
Ea J > c � s
to ZD
Ic m.5� Gz.$lz
L L d -a •n •c 5 .,
u ��epI
occ r -
c 'co a: r � ae cn " u
G.a.S?'o uo3 vU `
Plymouth Outdoor Water Restrictions Changed
Water
Restrictions
Plymouth has lifted the total ban on outdoor water use, effective immediately. In its place,
Plymouth has adopted odd -even restrictions, with no outdoor water use from
noon to 9 p.m. on any day.
Under the new restrictions, residents with even -numbered addresses may water their lawns on
even -numbered days before noon or after 9 p.m. People with odd -numbered addresses
may do the same on odd -numbered days. These restrictions will remain in effect through
September 30.
z--> The restrictions also apply to new shrubs, sod, gardens and landscaping.
z--> The restrictions apply to all Plymouth water system customers.
zz> Timed sprinkler systems must be adjusted to comply with the restrictions.
The penalty for violating the water restrictions has been increased to $100 for each day
of violation. Water customers will receive one warning before they are penalized.
If you have questions on the restrictions, call 559-2800, ext. 239.
FOLLOW THESE TIPS FOR SMART SPRINKLING:
=> Minimize evaporation. Water in the early morning.
=> Lawns need only be watered once a week with about one inch of water. To
determine how much water your yard is getting, put a jar or can under
the sprinkler and check the water level.
=> It is a mistake to water frequently but not deeply. Superficial watering
prevents the roots from developing and leaves the plant vulnerable to
moisture and heat stress.
1=�
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: June 8, 1988
TO: All City Employees
FROM: Helen LaFave, Communications Coordinator
SUBJECT CHANGE IN SPRINKLING RESTRICTIONS, EFFECTIVE NOON ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8
The total ban on outdoor water use will be lifted effective Wednesday,
June 8 at noon. Please familiarize yourself with the new restrictions to
ensure that we are providing accurate information to our citizens. The new
restrictions are different than our previous odd -even restrictions.
MODIFIED ODD -EVEN RESTRICTIONS
Sprinkling will be allowed on an odd -even system. However, no sprinkling
will be allowed from noon to 9 p.m. on any day. This means that property
owners with even -numbered addresses may use water outdoors before noon or
after 9 p.m. on even -numbered days. Those with odd -numbered addresses may
do the same on odd -numbered days.
Gardens and landscaping will follow the odd -even schedule detailed above.
EFFECTIVE DATE OF RESTRICTIONS
The odd -even restrictions, with no watering between noon and 9 p.m., will be
in effect from noon on Wednesday, June 8 through September 30.
PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS HAVE BEEN INCREASED
Citizens will receive one warning if they violate the sprinkling
restrictions. After that, they will be charged a penalty of $100 per day
for each day that they violate the new water restrictions.
EXEMPTIONS TO RESTRICTIONS
There are no exceptions to the restrictions. As before, the restrictions
only apply to customers of the city water system. Residents who rely on
private wells are not Affected.
INQUIRIES FROM MEDIA
All inquiries from news organizations should be directed to Fred Moore or
me.
HL:kec
cc: James G. Willis, City Manager
Fred Moore, Public Works Director
Karen Holm, Secretary
Sharon Mohr, Clerk/Typist
CITY OF
PUMOUTR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
559-2800, ext. 239
The City of Plymouth has eased its total ban on outdoor water use, effective
immediately. In its place, Plymouth has adopted an odd -even schedule for
outdoor water use which bans outdoor water use from noon through 9 p.m. on
any day.
Residents with even -numbered addresses may use water outdoors on
even -numbered days before noon, or after 9 p.m. Those with odd -numbered
addresses may do the same on odd -numbered days. These restrictions also
apply to new sod and landscaping. These restrictions will remain in effect
through September 30.
The Plymouth City Council has increased the penalty for violating the
sprinkling restrictions. Citizens will receive one warning. After that,
they will be charged $100 for each day they violate the new water
restrictions.
Plymouth residents with questions may call 559-2800, ext. 239.
-30-
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
CITY OF PLYMOUTH -7-6
CONFERENCE/SEMINAR REPORT
DATE OF SEMINAR/CONFERENCE: Saturday, April 30, - Wednesday, May 4, 19.88
LOCATION: San Antonio, Texas
r,
EMPLOYEE ATTENDING: Blair Tremere
TOTAL COST: $1,115.87
PURPOSE/THEME OF SEMINAR/CONFERENCE:
This was the annual conference of the American Planning Association. A broad menu of
workshop and discussion sessions was offered. I devoted substantial time to a track of
workshops and sessions involving regulatory takings, dedications, and impact fees.
Sunday morning I was on a panel that dealt with "A Role for Planners in Devising
Revenue Strategies?" and I provided information relative to the use of fiscal forecast-
ing such as the MUNIES Program we purchased several years ago.
I also was able to attend sessions on development standards from a builderss perspec-
tive; Development Standards Regarding Factory -built Housing; Suburban Congestion; Cur-
rent Trends in Comprehensive Planning; Siting Waste Management Facilities; The Use of
Geographic Information Systems; "Permit Aerobics: Getting Your Process in Shape"; and,
Density Measures and Their Relation to City Form.
Two breakfast networking sessions I attended covered Capital Programming/Infrastructure
and Planning and Law.
DESCRIBE BENEFIT TO EMPLOYEE/CITY:
I gained up-to-date knowledge of the important topics of impact fees, and dedication
policies and requirements. The conference affords numerous opportunities to hear and
meet noted authorities in the fields of comprehensive planning and land use regulation.
The additional opportunity to discuss topics of common interests and problems with my
counterparts from across the country provides a good perspective. This helps me under-
stand how seemingly difficult problems can be approached and how our operations measure
up against comparable communities around the country.
The City benefits from that broadened awareness and my improved understanding of how to
apply current legal findings and proven practical method to our operations.
I gained specific information and knowledge about ways to streamline the development
review process, though I found I was able to contribute significantly to discussions on
that topic because of the measures we have already adopted in Plymouth through the
Development Review Committee process.
Planning Commissioner Joy Tierney also attended the conference (funds have been
budgeted for a Councilmember or Planning Commissioner); she prepared the attached
memo. The American Planning Association conference is designed to accommodate
interests of lay persons who serve as Planning Commissioners and as elected officials.
I obtained several cassette tapes on some of the subjects that I felt were pertinent to
Plymouth, including the track involving impact fees.
NOTE: A copy of the seminar/conference educational materials should be retained
in appropriate department for not less than 10 -working days following the
employee's return.
forms(confreport)1
1^.H., y1c
Date: May 11, 1988
_T_6
TO: Mayor and City Council, Planning Commission
FROM: Joy Tierney, Planning Commissioner
SUBJECT: APA National Planning Converence in San Antonio, April 30 - May 4, '88
Interspersed between the several enjoyable Texas style hospitality and
mobile workshop events were 117 discussion sessions, in which I participated
totally or in part in 11. Two morning informal round -table discussions
called Breakfast Networking Sessions were available to us with a selection
from 11 different.topics. My main area of interest and concentration were
on topics relating to planning commissions and /or commissioners. The
following comments reflect points 1 believe pertinent to the City of Plymouth
with no intent toward making this memo a summary of all the sessions 1
attended.
DISCUSSION SESSION: Planning Commissioners Workshop I - Perspectives on
Planning Commission Decision Processes. This session presented
alternative perspectives of lawyers, developers, planning commission
chairpersons, community leaders, and staff. (See enclosed booklet).
1. David Allow, School of Planning, U. of Cincinnati
- Commission Chair: Treat all fairly; respectful to all, influenced by nore
or; representing no one, listening to everyonF
He has seen too many chairs gutless in administering
an agenda - ought to be in control of the agenda
- Administration: Difficult to find a city with a capital improvements
program in the U.S. A few may have a 2 yr. C.A.P.
- Commissioners: Check by -laws for commission procedures
Suggests that 2 -3 terms are enough (he discourages
people from being on the planning commission
for 20 years
Encourages talk with new commission members
Have a commission "agenda. ", a long -range work program
Be careful with petitions (not always representative)
2. Norman Krumholz, College of Urban Affairs, Cleveland State U.
- Notable quote, "If you do the job well you will have the opportunity
to frustrate everybody"
-Vote reasons not opinicLns
- Fairness means no conflict of interest
- Commission should be concerned about the ratio of compliance with
staff and the City Council
3. Bob Manley, Attorney, Cincinnati
-A professional developer is a fool to litigate (response to a threat,
"In 3 -7 years we will find out if you are right ")
-Do not be intimidated by lawsuit threats .... But more municipalities
are being sued than ever
- "I am entitled to highest and best use of my property. That is
nonsense. Check Euclid V. Ambler Realty Co., 1926
-Do not undercut staff without very clear statement of reasons. If
a suit is against a city and a person can show that
the planning commission disagrees with staff 90%
of the time, court may go along with appellant.
-2- 1 -6
DISCUSSION SESSION: Planning Commissioners workshop Ii - Case Studies
(Leaders - David Allor and Gregory Dale, School of Planning, L. of Cinn.)
- Placed stress on avoidance of appearance of impropriety or unfairness
-On potential conflict of interest situations, check by -laws cr get into
by -laws the procedure of internal conduct to be followed in certain
situations
-First rule in planning - visit the site. But some concerns:
*For any commissioner to vote on an issue without seeing the
site could result in a liability issue, based on the arpea.rance
of unfairness or conflict of interest
*To go on a site alone cold result in issues of conflict cf
interest or a court could null a case if legalities are at issue
-Never send a commissioner alone to a site
-Most commissioners do not have right of privilege (to) trespass
*Should a commissioner be injured on the site the,6wner of the prroperty
could be fearful of possible lawsuit - may deny site visitation
*Check with City policy as it relates to site visitation
- "Fair share" provisimnsin housing policy may be illegal in some states
and legal in others
-Defer or table a decision only: 1) When record is thought to be incomplete
2)When evidence is presented so recently that more time is needed
for further study (not for being chicken)
-There is no such thing as "confidential information" all information
a commissioner receives is public information
-When concerns arise as to legal rights, refer to an attorney
-Some commissions have a three part process: a study session with staff
about 1 week before the meeting leaving time to visit sites, read
materials, etc.; then the public hearing followed by the deliberative
session
DISCUSSION SESSION: Educating Planning Commissioners (See attached materials)
-Few commissioners had training sessions when appointed to commissions
- Suggests an update on Comprehensive Plan every 5 years
-3 training skills greatly needed:
1- How to conduct a meeting
2. Decision making skills
3. Communication skills
DISCUSSION SESSION: The Comprehensive Plan: The State of the Art
-The average revision of a comprehensive plan is 8 years
-Plan must have a good amount of local participation (to deal with issues
such as growth or no growth)
-Plan must allow State to intervene in areas that are of concern to the
State, such as beaches, farmland, wetlands, etc.
-There must be coordination among jurisdictions - a regional planning agency
- Citizens should have a right to challenge local plans that are
inconsistent with the state plan (with a caution not to allow anyone
at anytime to stop any project for any reason)
-good comprehensive planning is strategic planning
- Strategic plan: not as comprehensive as master plan
action oriented
broad based
-It is done by; environmental scan, goals, specific strategy, implementation,
moderating
-3-
-1-6
DISCUSSION SESSION: Right Before Your Eyes, presenter Grady Clay (From a
book by that title on how to use your own eyes to better see your
own community)
- Planners ought to be able to catch changes in the act (Ex.; Spring
towns - strip - growth corridors)
- Peripheral vision: a vision often more useful than direct vision
for knowing whats under your feet
-Those in know or power may not be following the broader trends (the
buying and anticipating purchasing of upscale property has become
a yuppy occupation (Shake out began last Oct.-7)
- Ephemeral places: places that keep changing (still aborning)
-Land: thought of as a place for raising corn ... raising capital gains, etc.
-Ask question, What really is going on here?
DISCUSSION SESSION: Child Care (Irvine, California experience)
-Spent 9 years raising community awareness and:
*Setting aside land for child care
*Gaining use of community parks with or without modulars
*Getting civic center use for child care
*Developing financing strategy
*Spent 6 years of this time lobbying and monitoring by the committee
- Result: all future villages will be required to have child care sites
- Conclusion: What took Irvine 9 years to do, Orange County did in
9 months. 'Local level is where its going to happen - Fed. cannot
assist
-Need: Public /private partnership (land prices are so high,the last
time a for-profit agency came in was 1979 -80)
DISCUSSION SESSION: Density Measures and Their Relation to City Form,
Presenters, Earnest T. Alexander and David K. Reed of U. of Wisconsin,
Milwaukee
- Density a crude measure for land use
- Density, 3 types: Perceived - is what you want to effect
Measured - is what they studied (floor area, height,
set -back, units per acre)
Physical -
- Discovered problems with density measures including oversimplification
DISCUSSION SESSION: Neighborhood Planning: The St. Paul and Seattle Experiences
(Kenneth E. Ford, Principal Planner, Dept. of Ec. Dev., St. Paul, MN)
-See enclosed flier
-z= -Za
June 7, 1988
"Girl -At -The- Counter"
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear "Girl -at- the - counter ":
Hardly a week goes by that I don't hear something very nice
about the "girl -at- the - counter ": I don't know, specifically,
who that is in each instance but I do know that I, too, enjoy
the little bantering that goes on when I call in -.
Keep up the good work!
Sincerely,
Maria Vasiliou
Councilmember
cc: Mayor /Council
Jim Willis
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559- 2E,O -)
June 7, 1988
Mr. Dale Hahn
Finance Director
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Dale:
Thanks again for the terrific job you and your staff deliver' You
are deserving of any recognition that comes your way.
Please know that I have absolute confidence if you and your department.
I'm not at all as confident about what happens efore something reaches
your department and the scrutiny of the auditors, but that's another
matter.
Having been part of several internal audits in my working history
I know that at least 90% of the business of a corporation generally
meets the test of accounting practice and procedure.. As.for..the re-
maining 10% - it's a question of integrity and values.
Have another great year and thanks again.
Sincerely,
Maria Vasiliou
Councilmember
Mayor /Council
Jim Willis
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
Z- 7c.
LOI%DOII
I FOG6
Rainwear and Outerwear Division o` Londontown Corporation • Londontown Boulevard, Eldersburc, tvlaryland 2175:
Teleohone (3011 7955902 • CabIe Londonfoc • Telex 57 -711 • DUNS = 306 -8772
June 6, 1988
Mr. Stan Scofield
Fire Marshall
City of Plymouth
Plymouth, MN 55447
Bear Stan:
Thank you once again for your time and
information at the Greentree West Spring
Fling, held Saturday, June 4.
I had many positive comments from both
the kids and the parents once you left
as to the "sense" it made having you
speak to us and that we all take fire
safety too lightly until something like
Amber Woods happens.
Again, thank you and I hope our neighbor-
hood never has to implement the life- saving
techniques you presented.
Best /,Regards,
,/' a,
Fred Retzloff,
Social Co- Chairman
cc: Sandy Kreatz,
Homeowners' President
New York Showroom Men's, 1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York New York 10019
New York Showroom Ladies', 512 Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10018 (212) 974 -0770
Caroiyn
Thompson
Editor
Plymouth Post
First day fears
Do you remember 'what it was Ilke your first day of school? I
mean your very first day ever, when everything was so strange
and overwhelming' Yew sat at a desk so big your elbows were the
ame level as your ears. Using a pencil as big as your fist, you
awkwardly tried to form letters on the lines of your Indian Chiet
writing tablet.
You didn't know anyone, and you didn't know where anything
a
as To make matte s worse, you were following in the sneakers
of a sibling, the superstar athlete /straight -A stu-
dent /most popular kid who is probably slated to be the next Nobel
Peace Prize winner, and they expected BIG things from you
It was a humbling experience.
Recently those same emotiors came tumbling back to me when
took over as the new editor of Lhe Plymouth Post
As 1 walked into the newly vacated office of the previous editor,
the first thing that hit me was the clean desk with an empty file
tray mark; followed by the blank layout sheets that
would be filled, hopefully, with stories for this week's newspaper.
1 think f know how Les Steckel felt when he replaced Bud
Grant.
It wasn't as if I had never done this before. I have been an edi-
tor before, most recently for a newspaper in a neighboring
northern suburb. But it is always dl ftcult to start a new job, as
most of you know. I'm the newkid on the block, the greenhorn
who has to pester everyone for directions to the copy machine,
office supplies and computer formats
My first assignment: a feature about a local woman. When 1
turned it in, the acting managing editor, Ann Andersen, remark-
ed "Oh good, I'm sure it sings I " I gulped and silently wondered
if the piece would even croak off key, much less sing. "Well at
least the photos turned out," I replied optimistically.
Next assignment: Plymouth city hall. I'm relieved W learn that
City Clerk Laurie Rauenhorsl is also new on the lob. But I soon
learn that she's no greenhorn. with the city less than two
weeks, Rau enhorst already knows the ins and outs of the system,
and 1 leave with a perfectly organized city council package and
her promise to keep me up to date on the city's happenings. I'm
impressed
Next stop: the city council. As a rule, city councils and their
staffs are overworked. underloved groups which may just toler.
ate a reporter's presence at best. I expect a chilly reception, but
instead, I get a friendly welcome from Plymouth's city council
and even an invitation to enjoy the buffet at their budget planning
session. In addition, City Manager James Willis is helpful, coop-
erative and even returns calls!
But the rca 1 a c id test is the police beat- My experience has been
that police departments are also overworked and ev less tol-
erant or nosy reporters. Information, even thoti� by
law to be public, is sometimes slow In coming. But inPly-
mouth. Again. I am startled by the opem'recepttonsnd the pro-
fessional way that Officer Darrel Anderson handles the media.
We not only get a complete file of incidents, we also get our ques-
tiorts answered - completely, honestly and In as much detail as the
law allows.
Perhaps I have died and this is reporter heaven, I think.
As I drove through Plymouth last week to get a feel for the
community, I was even more impressed by the beauty of your
parks, the neatness of your residential areas and the prosperity
displayed by your business and industrial districts. If I can't live
here, at least I have the pleasure of working with a city that has
one of the best reputations in the business.
Just as in real life, by the end of "my first day in school," I
knew I was going to like it here.
School buses
ACCORDIANIST Andy Roberit was on hc-
gardeners' fore -all party. He happened v�
Olson, at left, Crystal, who are ceiebronng
Gardeners
gather for
farewells
Development
halts project
Playwright...
NORTF
a hall
gorde -,
and G:
Reformation.
weighs 120 pounds
by hir
aroun�
"At Betty's he was using
empty
tour- letter words, the f -Wd loo.
�'
nearby
It was' like looking at S.91eone
fore Te:.
else [ had .to .remind m siseAL l
' rhert,
the booze tal"1 -oM,-r?y
sV
for his
'Betty recalls how John's
turned violent. "I was
drinkir'•,
choice '
behavior
in total shock at seeing him like
"Imstea
that. He tried to sill gg me," she
said I
said. "He of out or his chair
Unto hum. He
1 6dr.''
done'
and .Ted restrain
was 'also smarting off to Wayne
that '
(Betty's husband): I don't think
wantr--
we got to sleep until 5:3o a.m."
In to
one of the psychotherapists at
medical center later told Ted
Betty
their <i
the
that If John had had driver's
affecte
license, he likely d
His
alive today
from t
It was discovered that John
dividi:
not only drank with friends, but
"There
Playwright...
--r' a o�
June 2, 1988
Mayor Virgil Schneider
city of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Virgil:
I have received the town meeting notice for June 13.
Unfortunately I will not be able to attend the meeting, and I
do find them very interesting and an excellent way to
commmmicate with council as well as city staff.
our area has undergone substantial development during the past
few years and soon will be totally developed. However, a
concern of mine that existed 17 years ago when I f irst moved
to Plymouth still exists. That concern is West Medicine Lake
Road. During the past week I once again observed very close
calls between motorized vehicles and bicyclists in the area of
West Medicine Lake Park. I feel we have been very fortunate
not to have had a fatality along this section of roadway in
the past several years with the increase in pedestrian and
bike traffic as well as vehicular traffic. A plan has long
been available calling for the relocation of West Medicine
Lake Road westerly to bypass West Medicine Lake Park and to
join back into West Medicine Lake Road near the railroad
crossing just north of Highway 55.
I realize the cost of this improvement is considerable.
However, without this improvement West Medicine Lake Park
cannot properly proceed towards its final implementation nor
can the city adequately protect pedestrian and bike traffic
which the existing park generates. I see extensive road
construction occurring in other parts of the city,
particularly in the downtown Plymouth area, far ahead of the
intense level of development which has occurred in our
neighborhood. I am sure the council and staff share my
concern for safety of our citizens in this area. Hopefully we
can bite the bullet and build the facility that is required
prior to occurrence of any serious accident(s). One fatality
would make the cost of the proposed roadway realignment appear
"a Cif.
June 2, 1988
Page 2
very insignificant. one only has to briefly observe activity
near the park on a hot day to realize that a very dangerous
situation exists.
I encourage yourself and the other council members to initiate
action towards irplementation of a new West Medicine Lake Road
as rapidly as possible. Although unable to attend the
comrmnity meeting I sincerely thank you for your consideration
of the above request.
sincerely yours,
John C. Mullan
11845 28th Avenue North
cc: Council Members Sisk, Zitur, Vasiliou, Ricker
DAVE DURENBERGER
MINNESC?/,
Eric J. Blank
Director, Parks and
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, Minnesota
Dear Eric:
fnif eb Zf of ez Zenaf e
Rec.
55447
WASHINGTON. D.C. 20510
May 27, 1988
1 -Cpl�
Thank you for your thoughts regarding the American Heritage
Trust Fund Act, aesigneo to reauthorize the Land and Water
Conservation Fund ( LAWCON). I appreciate hearing from vou.
Senator Chafee has sponsored the bill, S.2199, in the
Senate, while Congressman Udall has introduced identical
legislation in the House, H.R.4127. Both bills would establish
a trust fund that would ultimately be able to appropriate
$1 billion annually for the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
understand that the appropriated money would be split between
the state and federal governments.
As a private citizen, I was deeply involved in state and
local recreation. As a Senator, I have been committed to the
preservation and maintenance of our natural resources for future
generations. I have always supported the Land and Water
Conservation Fund. I have been dismayed at the trend of reduced
funding, particularly for state and local governments, of
LAWCON. Accordingly, I support the Udall / Chafee bill and will
work for its passage in the hopes that it will provide stable
and permanent funding. In the interim, I will also work to see
that LAWCON is adequately funded and that outdoor recreation
gets the share it needs and deserves.
Once again, thank you for your thoughts. It is a privilege
to serve you in the United States Senate.
incerely,
74 ve Durenberger
United States Sena to q
DD /eg MANAGER
CRY MUCK
1t1B A M= Maio
RNAW NO=
PJAM NOW
I rmc sin► "l
MONNNOM
1M 0�
.40 mm�
Iwo Vt
PILGRIM LANE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
3725 Pilgrim Lane
Plymouth, MN 55441
545 -1649
May 26, 1988
Dear Ms. Laurence,
The students and sixth grade staff thank you for a wonderful
career presentation. Your donated time definitely helped make
our career unit a great success.
The students displayed enormous enthusiasm after hearing the
presentations. They now have renewed interest in locating
information about careers. We saw a lot of bright smiles.
The concepts, personal experiences, training, job descriptions
and personalities were enjoyed by everyone.
It is very nice to know that many people are concerned about
the education of our youth.
Sincerely,
Sixth Grade Staff
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 281
Robbinsdak Area Schools
baring for a lifetisue of going
Dr DonnaJ Carter
Superintendent
��
// ,,v
(�.� L �
v
/J � � i. `�
�':,.
�,� ��
� �
�� � �
/� w � � � �� `.�
� �� � �
�� ��
��:;: <; yejq ,:in9:1'itic}i1; ?,.... 4 ��C�AA� �/ - � .5i; < <ri�$C:........ .. .
����- � �
��� w�� �� � .�y��
� �� ��
� �
1G�3G,�
June 7, 1988
Arlene Johnson
3535 Rosewood Lane
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Arlene:
Regarding your call to me concerning the status of the ground
cover on the retaining wall and the size of the trees across
the street; I spoke with Fred Moore prior to a council meeting
and he says that he believes some growth has occurred on the
wall.
It would seem to me that we purchased this groundcover so long
ago that if something was going to grow we would know by know.
I'm also concerned that apparently we don't hold the supplier
responsible, yet developers have to guarantee their landscaping
for one full growing season. It is most assuredly a double
standard. (We just buy new plants apparently).
As for the size of the trees: everyone feels that they meet
the intent.
Now for the real bad news: I'm only one vote, Arlene. The
fact that there isn't support doesn't mean your request is un-
reasonable; nor does it mean that my concerns are without merit.
It just means that a majority agree and the majority rules. You
indicated that all you get from the city is "sarcastic replies"
and I know that this letter doesn't answer your concerns either, but
there is simply nothing I can do.
I do appreciate you bringing them to my attention, however.
Sincerely,
//46,
Maria Vasiliou
Councilmember
Mayor /Council
Jim Willis
Fred Moore
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
.z- SE
4q
ff
CITY OF
June 6, 1988 PLYMOUTH+
William Haberman
12030 28th Avenue N
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Mr. Haberman:
Frank Boyles has asked me to contact you with regard to your letter of May 26.
At this time, the City of Plymouth has no rules, regulations or jurisdiction
over the number of docks, or the number of boats per dock on any private
property surrounding Medicine Lake. Al Cottingham of the City's Planning
Department has already sent a letter to Mr. Juelich stating that it is illegal
to run a private business, such as the renting of dock slips, out of a private
residence. Mr. Juelich has indicated these slips are not for rent.
As a practical matter, the City of Plymouth has no way of knowing on any of
the private docks around Medicine Lake which boats are owned by the adjoining
property owners, or boats that have been moored at docks under some type of
private arrangement.
I am sorry that I have not been able to give you better news regarding this
problem. If you would like to discuss the matter further with me, please give
me a call at your convenience. I can be reached at 559 -2800 x 265.
Sincerely,
Eric J. B ank,
Dlreo
Parks and Recreation
EJB /np
cc: Frank Boyles
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD. PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
z Se-
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
MEMO
DATE: June 3, 1988
TO: Joe Ryan, Building Official and Eric/Blank, Director of Park and
Recreation
FROM: Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manager
SUBJECT ATTACHED LETTER FROM WILLIAM HABERMAN
Attached is a letter to Mayor Schneider from William Haberman, expressing
two concerns:
1. The first deals with building permit issuance. Mr. Haberman
indicates that since July 1987, retaining wall construction has
taken place on a property located immediately next door and
northeast of his property. He claims that the City issued a
permit for the project, but "has done nothing to monitor it."
Joe, could you review the site, determine corrective actions and
timeline. Please let me know the outcome so I can share the
information with the Council.
Eric, the second concern has to do with dock slip rental. I don't
know whether this is a private dock, falling under the Council's
policy or not. Could you check to see whether it is, or whether
this is a private matter between Mr. Juelich and Mr. Haberman.
Please let Mr. Haberman know your findings and share
correspondence with me so that I can keep the Council appraised.
I would appreciate it if you could both let me know the results of your
research by June 13.
FB:kec
cc: Mayor and City Council
S.F. 6/13/88
-T-Se-
May 26, 1988
Mayor Schneider
City Hall
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MIN 55447
Dear Mayor Schneider:
I'm writing in response to our telephone conversation we had
last week.
My complaints are as follows:
I purchased my home at 12030 28th Ave. North, in Plymouth on
6 -1 -86. Since the purchase of my home I've done extensive
landscaping to the tune of $30,000 plus, not counting my sweat
equity. I also pay $6,400 a year in property taxes.
Since last July 1987, I've had to put up with a rock, asphalt,
cement and a iron dump. This dump is located next door (N.E.).
This is truly an eyesore and this has reduced my property
value. The city issued a permit for this project, but did
nothing to monitor it. Now I suffer the effects!
Secondly, Mr. Jerry Juelich is now renting out two dock slips on
a dock slip that we are sharing. This is a clear zoning
violation.
Last year someone stole my boat moter, I'm not blaming Mr.
Juelich or his renters, but you can see it adds to the problem
of security. There is also a question of legal liability if
someone would get hurt on the dock. I bought my home for
privacy not a public asses. Mr. Juelich and the renters both
stated, that they pay Juelich $75 a month and Juelich stated he
receives $75 from each renter.
Finally, Juelich stated to me that the boulevard in front of my
home would be sodded in July of 1986. It's still not sodded and
the weeds grow 4 ft. high in the summer. It is an eyesore and
creates a weed problem for my lawn.
Please Mr. Schneider I would appreciate any help you could
offer.
Sincerely, ,
William Haberman �+
z -Se.
t
June 2, 1988
Mr. William Haberman
12030 - 28th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55441
t
C-ITY )
PLYMOUTR
SUBJECT: YOUR MAY 26, 1988 LETTER
Dear Mr. Haberman:
For your information, I am attaching a memorandum to our Building Official
and Park and Recreation Director from the Assistant City Manager, asking
that they look into the two complaints identified in your May 26, 1988
letter. Each of these individuals will be in contact with you to advise you
of the status of their investigation. During our earlier telephone
discussion, your primary interest seemed to be the issue of the retaining
wall. I have discussed this with the Building Official who has initiated
steps which should lead to a solution to your concerns.
Thank you for bringing these matters to our attention.
Sincerely,
Virgil Schneider
Mayor
VS:kec
attachment
cc: Joe Ryan, Building Official
Eric Blank, Director of Park and Recreation
City Council
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD. PLYMOUTH. MINNESOTA T: ELEPHON` '�12? 559 -280G
1-8f
June 3, 1988
Mr. Henry Lind
MG Astleford Company
1200 West Highway 13
Burnsville, MN 55337
t
t
i
CITY,&
PLYMOUTH
SUBJECT: TREE REMOVAL ALONG BASSETT CREEK SOUTH OF BASS LAKE ROAD
Dear Mr. Lind:
It was brought to our attention that trees were being removed along Bass
Creek through your property. After making a physical inspection of this
site you did, in fact, remove some large trees adjacent to the creek
within those areas to be conserved. As a part of your final platting
process, we are going to require a substantial financial guarantee be
made to the City to ensure us that large trees will be planted in those
areas where removal has taken place adjacent to the creek.
I certainly believe that it shows poor judgment in removing trees in
areas where it is unnecessary for development purposes. I hope this
type of activity will not take place again or more serious actions may
be necessary. If you need any additional clarification with reference
to this matter, or have other concerns, please contact our office.
Attached is a copy of the resolution that references the matter.
Sincerely,
Chester J. Harrison, Jr., P.E.
City Engineer
CJH:kh
enclosure
cc: Virgil A. Schneider, Mayor
James G. Willis, City Manager
Fred G. Moore, Director of Public Works
Bob Johnson, Senior Engineering Technician
Dan Campbell, Senior Engineering Technician
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
CPJ--
CITY Of PLYWOUTfi
Pursua.t to due call and notice thereof, a re,uiar mee iro of tree Cite Council of th•.
Cit\ of Plvmouth, Minnesota, was held ori the 4 t dat of Mav 1y 81. Thc.
followinu members were present: Mayor Schneider, Courcilmem,[)ers Crain, Sisk, �_
Vasiliou and Zitur Tr,e
following members were absent: none
Mayor Schneider introduced the following Resolution and moved its
adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 87 - 273
APPROVING PRELIMINARY PLAT, VARIANCE, AND GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN AMENDMENT FOR
SUPERIOR FORD, INC. (87015)
WHEREAS, Superior Ford, Inc. has requested approval for a Preliminary Plat, Variance,
and General Development Plan Amendment for commercial property southwest of County Road
18 and County Road 10; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has reviewed the request at a duly called Public Hear -
ino and recommends approval;
NOS+ THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PLYMJUTH, MIN -
NESOTA, that it should and herebv does approve the Preliminary Plat, Variance, and
General Development Plan Amendment for Superior Ford, Inc. for commercial property
located southwest of County Road 1b and County Road lt, subject to the following
conditions:
1. Compliance with the City Engineer's Memorandum.
2. Removal of all dead or dying trees from tht: property .,t the owner's expense.
3. No Building Permits shall be issued until a Contract has been awarded for sewer
and water.
4. Payment of park dedication fees -in -lieu of dedication in accordance with the
Dedication Policy in effect at the time of issuance of Building Permit.
5. Street names shall comply with the City Street Naming System.
6. Compliance with Policy Resolution No. 79 -80 reqardinq minimum floor elevations for
new structures in subdivisions adjacent to, or containing any open storm water
drainage facility.
7. Rezoning shall be finalized with filing of the Final Plat.
8. No Building Permits shall be issued until Sanitary Sewer and Water ar available to
the site.
9. No yard setback variances are granted or implied.
PLEASE SEE PAGE TWO
.z -00 f
Pao<.
1C;. Private dri\e access steal! 1 it it; tt intr-r, p,t>i is ri >acis, anc� prohibiter:
from County Roa-I 10.
11. The Variance from the Urban Development Policy is approved in recognition that, it
will not set a precedent for rezoninq unserviced land because of the uniqueness of
the situation; the pendinq availahility of sanitary sewer; and, the compliance
with the Policy's variance standards.
12. There shall be no qrading, filling, or realiqnment of Bass Creek as it currentl\,
exists within the preliminary plat, unless specific approval is received from the
City Council in conjunction with the approval of the final plat. Also, any
substantial size trees along Bass Creek which are proposed to be removed shall be
specifically indicated on the final grading plan.
The motion for adoption of the foregoing Resolution was duly seconded by _
Councilmember Zitur , and upon vote being taken thereon, the following
voted in favor thereof: Mayor, chneider, Councilmembers Crain, Sisk,
Vasiliou and Zitur The following
voted against or abstained: none Whereupon the
Resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.
Courage Center M 3915 Golden Valley Road • Golden Valley, Minnesota 55422 • (612) 586 -OE;'
Duluth Area Services • 205 West 2nd Street • Duluth, MN 55802 • (218) 727 -6$74
Dear Readers:
Immediately following the Seoul Olympic Games athletes from 57 nations will compete
in the Seoul Paralympic Games. The following athletes have been selected by their
respective national organizations to represent the USA at the Seoul Paralympic Games
October 15-24. Based on their previous performances, these people will represent you
very well. You will be proud of them.
\ Dick Crumb
�1 Ken Herrly
St. Paul
Plymouth
Track & Field
CITY
CITY MYtNMUR
Archery
Mark Knutson
Brooklyn Center
Weightlifting
Scott Lehman
St. Louis Park
Archery
\` Tami Oothoudt
Minneapolis
Track & Marathon
z:lenny Peterson
Plymouth
Archery
Mike Stauner
Golden Valley
Archery
Bob Tusa
Jackson
Field
Karen Casper- Robeson
St. Paul
Basketball
Susan Hegel
New Hope
Basketball
Mary Ann O'Neill
New Hope
Basketball
Deb Sunderman
Savage
Basketball
Scott Tiaden
Willmar
Swimming
Mary Jo Kittok
Annandale
Field
Patti Baxter
Spicer
Goal Ball
Lori Johnson
St. Paul
SwimmingiField
Jim Masto
Fridley
Field /Judo
Bob Grong
Minneapolis
Track and Field/
Table Tennis
Mike Jwanouskos
St. Paul
Archery
Allison Locey
Arden Hills
Track & Field
If you have time, call your local papers and T. V. and radio stations. Ask them to keep
the community abreast of the
Seoul Paralympic Games and
its local athletes.
Sincerely,
SPORTS, PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND RECREATION STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS
IML T O!
CITY
CITY MYtNMUR
CITY COUNCIL
wIBLIC WORK DIRECTOR
-^
i ► :NAWADIRECTOR
1 1+INNING DIRECTOR
I •: ::tIC SAFETY DIRECTOR
Ai)MINISTRATIYE ASSSTANT
PARK COWMSSM
.7ORNEY
�I:�ritt
a 3
3
1 A
June 9, 1988
Mr. Joe Lund
2705 Holly Lane
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Mr. Lund:
Thank you for your letter of May 24 regarding your continuing concern with
respect to the City's overnight parking regulations.
I respect your right to disagree with the policy of the City dealing with
this matter. The City Council, over a period of years, has given this
subject a good deal of consideration. They continue to believe that the
current regulations are appropriate.
I asked the City's Community Development Director, Mr. Blair Tremere, to
review your "parking lot" plan. I am enclosing a copy of his memo dealing
with that subject. If you wish to further explore that option, please
contact Mr. Tremere directly.
Yours truly,
James G. Willis
Cit` Manager
JW:kec
cc: Mayor & City Council
34010 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD. PLYMOUTH. MINNESO'A. 55447. TELEPHOte= i;.7 2 i 559 -28X
FARMHAND, INC.
Shorewood Village Center
P. O. Box 1500
Excelsior, Minnesota 55331
Joe Lund
President
May 24, 1988
Mr. James G. Willis
City Manager
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447
Dear Mr. Willis:
244-
(61V 474 -194'
Thank you for your letter of May 18 in response to mine of May 9 concernin
Plymouth's 2 A.M. -5 A.M. parking ban.
Without becoming an argumentative "pain in the neck ", I feel compelled to
respond to your letter. Your five "answers" are very "reasonable" and are,
in themselves, "reasons why" the solution (parking ban from 2 A.M. - 5 A.M.)
can be presented as a "good idea ". My argument will address two aspects o
how I believe the reasoning to be misleading:
1. The law does not directly relate to any of the reasons
set forth.
2. The restrictions on the citizenry does not directly relate
to ate'_ of the reasons set forth.
In fact, the streets are "parking lots ". They are designed and used to
permit cars to be parked on the streets and not impede the movement of
traffic. Of course, the term "parking lot" denigrates the argument into
something it is not. The streets are meant to accommodate parked cars for
the use of the citizenry. If your reasons 01, #3 or #5) were true, the
"parking ban" would not be limited to 3 hours in the middle of the night.
They would be enforced 24 hours a day. This is also true of X64.
I appreciate the difficult role of a police officer. I can understand how,
particularly in the 2 A.M. - 5 A.M. time period, they can be apprehensive
and even frightened because of the potential dangers that exist in the
execution of their duties. I am also appreciative of the way the Plymouth
police carry out their duties. However, if we start to believe that we can
-7- Oclk
Mr. James G. Willis
City of Plymouth
May 24, 1988
Pa£d -2-
pass a plethora of laws that will assist them in catching criminals by
restricting the activities of the citizenry, we are on our way toward
martial law. Again, if this is the purpose of the law, we could be much
more effective if we had a curfew and did not allow anyone on the street=
between 2 A.M. - 5 A.M. Conversely, for you to state that "The vehicles
on the street during these early morning hours can be immediately identi-
fied as 'suspicious'..." is very scary. We had some friends visit our home
and they left at 3 A.M. Forgetting about the 2 A.M. - 5 A.M. law, they
received a ticket. I think they would have been more careful if they had
known they would be "under suspicion" by the police as they left my house.
Your reason #4 is the best argument, in my view, but still doesn't respond
to the question. 1) There are already laws about parking during snowplow-
ing. 2) Sealcoating is rare and the public works advises us, in advance,
of the need to clear the street. That leaves 3) street sweeping. First,
it is not only between 2 A.M. - 5 A.M. that the street sweeping occurs, but
that is the only time the law applies. Second, if you (the law) were to
specify a day and a time that a specific street was to be cleaned, the
citizenry would not only be responsive, but, enthusiastic. With a reason
like this that makes practical sense, you will receive enthusiastic responsE-
because we want our streets clean.
As to my second argument: The restrictions on the citizenry does not
directly relate to any of the reasons for the law.
1. The fact that I have a driveway and a garage is not responsive as
to why no one can park in front of my house (on the street). It
assumes conditions that are not true. Besides that, it is
argumentative. Where you live (I live on a cul -de -sac, for example)
is significant in whether the argument is applicable. The other
main argument is that the hours of 2 -5 A.M. are not at all responsive
to your point. If what you say is true, it should be a 24 hour lay,:.
The fact that the law is so narrow (2 -5 A.M.) only enforces the
argument that any expansion of the law would be strongly resisted.
2. I doubt that the residents of Plymouth realize that the officials
(police) would consider them "suspicious" under the circumstances
that you relate. I would be very surprised if the average citizens
would consider themselves the bad guys. Yet, this law makes us
lawbreakers when we merely forget that the law changes at 2 A.M.
3. A citizen doing this action does not and cannot cause any of the
reasons you stated. The act, in itself, doesn't do anything but
cause "suspicion ". The time frame is even arbitrary and spurious,
as you admit -- (the results you show in the evening and after
5 A.M. are not covered by the law).
012k
Mr. James G. Willis
city of Plymouth
May 24, 1988
PaQd -3-
The importance of this disagreement is there are "reasons" to do it. When
individuals are restricted, by law, in their behavior, it must be a
compelling reason that their unrestricted actions will cause a danger to
people and /or property. It must be a "clear and present danger" and not
just a "good idea." We can come up with hundreds of "good ideas" about
the way other people ought to live.
We must first keep in mind freedom. Restriction and "suspicion" must be
pulled out reluctantly. We must worry about becoming "elitist" and tellin=-
others how they must live.
My real worry about this law is that it is an "elitist" law (that cars
parked on the street are unsightly and may reduce real estate values ").
This, of course, is an argument also put forth by those who want to restrict
the'kind of people' that live next door to us.
I trust that the enclosed plans for my house will fall within both the
letter and spirit of the law.
I intend to offer "free night parking" to my neighbors. I will, in fact,
turn my lot into the "parking lot" that you suggest. We will answer four
of your "reasons." of course, they still may be "suspicious," but, we'll
never know. Please advise me if this plan violates any other "good idea"
laws of which I may not be aware. I don't want to break the law.
You did not respond to my "results" question. Please let me know the number
of "snowbirds" "abandoned" cars from year to year. Also, please let me
know the reduction in vandalism and trespassing at night" that you state
is a result. Also, please let me know the number of tickets imposed on the
innocent citizens where no other charge was forthcoming against them. Thi=
is the cost of freedom paid for the results. I insist on knowing whether
it is "worth it."
My car (or my family's car or friend's car) is not an impediment nor a
danger to any of the citizens of Plymouth. It is not "abandoned," it is
not "suspicious," it does not stop safety vehicles. Yet, it is unlawful
for no reason.
I will continue my opposition to this arbitrary law; but, I will also obey
it (except by mistake).
Would you please indicate approval of my "parking lot" plan.
I J�h
Mr. James G. Willis
City of Plymouth
May 24, 1988
Page -4-
Sincerely,
i
Joseph J. Lund
JJL /eo
Enclosure
CC: Jerry Sisk
Mayor and City Council
Richard Carlquist, Public Safety Director
�I�!H -i 1.-l�(1N
�J�,`j"
_r—Ok
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
MEMO
DATE: dune 3, 1988
TO: City Manager dames G. Willis
FROM: Community Development Director Blair Tremere
SUBJECT INQUIRY BY MR. DOE LUND
You provided me with a copy of Mr. Lund's May 24, 1988 letter and asked me to comment
on his observations and request on page 3. He suggests that perhaps he could provide
off - street parking in a parking lot fashion so his neighbors would have "free night
parking."
I have attached three pages from the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance which reflects standards
that would not allow Mr. Lund's design as depicted on the sketch included with his
letter.
The Ordinance, on page 10.25, provides for the "design of parking and loading facili-
ties" and, among other things, states that parking areas shall be so designed that
vehicles may enter, circulate, park, and exit in a convenient and orderly fashion.
Minimal dimensional requirements for the design of parking areas are shown in Table 1
of the Ordinance, and for any parking area for 6 or more cars, a suitable means of
turn - around must be provided so to avoid backing onto public streets. Mr. Lund's plan
would not provide for that.
The Ordinance at page 10.26 provides that off - street parking areas near or adjoining
residence districts must be screened by a buffer fence of adequate design, or a plant-
ing buffer screen.
The sketch does not indicate any screening or buffering.
The Ordinance also provides that in the single family residential district, the minimum
distance between a private drive and a street intersection shall be 20 ft.
The sketch plan indicates that there might be a drive access closer than that.
The Ordinance, on page 10.30, represents in Table 1, the minimum parking lot design
standards which include setbacks from the right -of -way line. Mr. Lund's plan does not
conform with those minimum standards.
Therefore, I would not be in a position to approve this parking plan as it is
presented. The attached pages could be sent to Mr. Lund and used by him to revise his
plan accordingly.
Let me know if I can be of further assistance.
Attachments
PLYMOUTH ZONING ORDINANCE
Section 10
SUBDIVISION B - OFF- STREET PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS
1. Application:
z 4�4
Off- street parking and loading regulations shall apply to all buildings and uses
of land established after the effective date of this Ordinance. The location,
design, and construction and maintenance of off- street parking and loading fac-
ilities within the Special Protection Districts shall also be subject to the re-
quirements set forth in Section 6 of this Ordinance.(Amended Ord No. 82 -33)
2. Required Plan:
Any application for site plan approval, for a building permit or for a Certifi-
cate of Occupancy shall include a plot plan drawn to scale and dimensioned show-
ing off - street parking and loading space to be provided in compliance with this
Ordinance.
Transient merchants, transient produce merchants, and any person that sells
products of the garden or farm on the property on which the products are grown
and cultivated, shall submit a plot plan drawn to scale and dimensioned showing
off - street parking and circulation and the plan shall show the access to the
public street and if the site is a corner lot, or is an interior lot within 50
ft, of a corner lot, the plan shall show the distance to the street
intersection. The plan shall be approved prior to any sales. No site shall be
located within any public right -of -way. (Amended Ord. 86 -07)
3. Reduction and Use of Parking Loading Space:
Off- street parking facilities existing at the effective date of this Ordinance
shall not subsequently be reduced to an amount less than that required under this
Ordinance for a similar new building or use. Off- street parking facilities pro-
vided to comply with the provisions of this Ordinance shall not subsequently be
reduced below the requirements of this Ordinance. Such required parking or load-
ing space shall not be used for storage of goods, trash disposal containers, or
for storage of vehicles that are inoperable or for sale or rent.
4. Truck or Bus Parking in RESIDENCE DISTRICTS:
Off- street parking of trucks or buses with a gross weight of over 4.5 tons,
except for deliveries and unloading, in all RESIDENCE DISTRICTS, except the FRD
District, shall be prohibited.
5. Desiqn of Parkinq and Loadinq Facilities:
a. Parking areas shall be so designed that vehicles may enter, circulate,
park and exit in a convenient and orderly fashion. Minimal dimensional re-
quirements for the design of parking areas are shown in Table 1. For any
parking area of six (6) or more cars a suitable means of turnaround must be
provided at maximum design capacity to avoid backing onto public streets. All
loading spaces shall be sufficient to meet the requirements of each use and
shall provide adequate space for storage and maneuvering of the vehicles it is
designed to serve.
10 -25
s 4k
PLYMOUTH ZONING ORDINANCE
Section 10. Subdivision B
b. Access:
2) Parking and loading space shall have proper access from a public.
right -of -way.
2) The number and width of access drives shall be so located as to minimize
traffic congestion and abnormal traffic hazard, and no driveway in R -2,
R -3 and R -4 RESIDENCE DISTRICTS and all Business and Industrial Dis-
tricts shall be closer thanfifty (50) feet from any right -of -way line of
a street intersection. In FRD, R -1A and R -1B RESIDENCE DISTRICTS the
minimum distance shall be twenty (20) feet.
3) In B -1, B -2 and B -3 BUSINESS DISTRICTS, and I -1 INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT,
direct access shall be provided to an arterial street as shown in the
adopted City Thoroughfare Guide Plan or to a related service road.
c. Location of Parking Facilities:
Required off - street parking space shall be provided either on the same lot or
adjacent lots as the principal building or use is located.
d. Buffer Fences and Planting Screens:
Off- street parking and loading areas near or adjoining RESIDENCE DISTRICTS
shall be screened by a buffer fence of adequate design or a planting buffer
screen; plans of such screen or fence shall be submitted for approval as a
part of the required site or plot plan and such fence or landscaping shall be
installed as part of the initial construction.
e. Lighting:
Lighting shall not be directed upon the public right -of -way and nearby or ad-
jacent properties. Such illumination must be indirect or diffused.
f. Landscaping:
All required yards and parking areas shall be landscaped in accordance with
the adopted standards and criteria policy. Plans of such landscaping shall be
submitted for approval as a part of the required site or plot plan and such
landscaping shall be installed as part of the initial construction.
g. Construction and Maintenance:
1) In R -2, R -3 and R -4 RESIDENCE DISTRICTS, in B -1, B -2 and B -3 BUSINESS
DISTRICTS, and in I -1 INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT, parking areas and access
drives shall be covered with a dust -free all- weather surface with
curbing and proper surface drainage as required by the City Engineering
Department, and adopted standards and criteria.
10 -26
i
PLYMOUTH ZONING ORDINANCE
TABLE 1 PARKING LOT DESIGN
Curb lint
r
principit E
building
.- 4..}- i.- Ik - - - -4-
rear lot lint' v
l 44
Section 10, Subdivision B
front lot l
silt lot
lint
• Curb
// line '
1
K K
PARKING LAYOUT REQUIRED MINIMUM DIMENSIONS (in feet)
FOR 9 -FOOT STALLS AT VARIOUS ANGLES
T
Dimension Diagram
450 600 750 90°
Stall Width, parallel to aisle`
A
12.7 10.4 9.3 9.0
Stall length of line
B
25.0 22.0 20.0 18.5
Stall depth
C
17.5 19.0 19.5 18.5
Aisle width between stall lines
D
12.0 16.0 23.0 26.0
Stall depth, interlock
E
15.3 17.5 18.8 18.5
Module, edge of pavement to interlock
F
44.8 52.5 61.3 63.0
Module, interlocking
G
42.6 51.0 61.0 63.0
Module, interlock to curb face
H
42.8 50.2 58.8 60.5
Bumper overhang (typical)
I
2.0 2.3 2.5 2.5
Offset
3
6.3 2.7 0.5 0.0
Side and rear yard setback
K
Residence district: as required for
of parking to lot line
accessory building. Non - residence
districts: 20 feet.
Cross aisle, one -way
L
14.0 14.0 14.0 14.0
Cross aisle, two -way
-
24.0 24.0 24.0 24.0
Front yard setback
M
All R and B Districts: 20 feet
of parking to lot line
Industrial Districts: 50 feet
Setback of parking or drive
N
R -2, R -3 and R -4 Districts: 20 ft.
from principal building
All Non - Residence Districts: 10 ft.
Front lot line to drive
0
All R and B Districts: 10 feet
(landscape area)
Industrial District: 25 feet
Side and rear lot line to drive
P
Residence District: one and two family
(landscape area)
dwellings: 3 feet; other uses: as
required for accessory buildings
Non - Residence Districts: 15 feet
* Required handicap stalls and ramps shall be per State Code.
���' 10 -30
June 7, 1988
Nancy Dierdorf
2110 North Urbandale
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Nancy:
After I spoke with you on the phone this morning I went home
for lunch and discovered several (7 to be exact) messages on
my recorder that had to do with your situation. Everyone was
totally supportive of you and couldn't believe how well you
handled the matter.
Granted, it might be costly if we discover several people need
corrective measures but I'm just as concerned about the fact that
we could think for one minute that we have no responsibility to
help you and your family. ( We find the money for the things
we want, believe me.)
Please stay in touch and if I can help in any way please don't
hesitate to call me.
Sincerely,
d
//�I�
Maria Vasiliou
Councilmember
Mayor /Council
Jim Willis
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
1 -cJ
CITY OF
PUMOUTR
June 7, 1988
Memo to: Mayor /Council
From: Councilmember Vasiliou PL)
Subj: Planning Commission
Based on the correspondence we received last week from
Dennis Zylla it appears that there continues to be a
problem. (I had suggested this several months ago after
the then chairman, Paul Steigerwald, shared some incidents).
What's the current thinking?
Thank you.
cc: Jim Willis
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
June 1. 1988
Mayor Virgil Schneider and
Cite Council
Cite of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd. JJ"
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447 ;I1 t
Dear Mayor and Cite Council:
You probably have seen by now my criticism at a recent Planning Commission
meeting over the City's requirement to fire sprinkler the Pat Goff
townhouse project north of County Road 9 on Fernbrook Avenue. apparently
the City staff made its standard request tc the developer on the need tc
have paved fire lanes around the buildings and the developer agreed to the
fire sprinl:lering in lieu of the fire lanes. 1 have had concerns about
the City's fire lane ordinance before I used the word ludicrous to
describe the City's requirement of fire sprinklering this residential
townhouse project. I would like to provide a few follow -up comments
directly- to the council on this subject.
I am aware that the Cite does require fire sprinkler systems in industrial
and commercial projects. Fire sprinklering is also required in
multi - residential districts exceeding 3 stories in height. I read in awe
the ordinance adoption in January of this year wherein the width of fire
lanes was expanded from 12 feet to 15 feet to accommodate larger
equipment, but the Pat Goff sprinkler requirement is going beyond what I
believe is a reasonable interpretion of the current ordinance.
I believe that the original intent of providing fire lanes to enhance the
ability of emergency vehicles to suppress fires has been carried too far
in the cite of Plymouth. I believe it is reasonable for the fire
department to participate in the site planning process and to make
recommendations to enhance the accessibility of all sides of structures in
order to suppress fires. I do not believe that a site planning process
should be predicated on the installation of fire lanes nor should the City
put pressure on developers to fire sprinkler residential multiple family
dwelings less than 3 stories in height whether they are owned or rental.
Nor do I believe from a site planning point of view that we ought to be
requiring 7 ton paved fire lanes of 15 feet in width in areas that would
typically (or should) be green area.
I am fully supportive of the efforts made by the Public Safety Department
in Plymouth and feel very strongly about the advantages and success
accomplished by volunteer fire departments in general. I am not anti -life
safety, but rather pragmatic in my approach to site design and the
enforcement of reasonable ordinance provisions in our community.
I orobabl,,- don't have all the facts nor do I have the time to mail., 011�..
ma.ior research effort. but I do belies c tha: the fir( lane pro�'isio ;�� i;
Plymouth are unique to Plymouth. The language contained in the P1%n;cn :tip
code is not language adopted from either the national or the State fire
codes. Since Plymouth has a right to modif} the state code the question
then becomes how stringent ought Plymouth be in adopting its owr) fire
code.
Fire lanes constructed mean fire lanes maintained 12 months out of the
year. I would like to know what our record is relative to enforcing- the
maintenance of fire lanes. Are we requiring this mass of asphalt to be
constructed only to have this area •unmaintained'
Up until recently my wife thought the fire lane around the Plymouth Raquet
Club was a running track. Maybe it should be. At least then it would
serve some functional purpose. Does anyone know what the cost Der square
foot is to build these lanes to a i
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
MEMO
DATE: June 10, 1988
TO: Mayor Schneider, Councilmembers Jerry Sisk, Maria Vasiliou, Bob Zitur
FROM: James G. Willis, City Manager
r.
SUBJECT DEATH OF LLOYD RICKER'S SISTER
Lloyd called to inform me that his sister, Mrs. Violet Sturycz, of Kenosha,
Wisconsin, died unexpectedly Tuesday. Lloyd and Verna are in Kenosha for
the funeral which is scheduled for 11 a.m. this morning. I have had flowers
sent on behalf of the Council.
JW:kec