HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 08-26-1988�y
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PLYMOUTH
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
August 26, 1988
RECYCLING CASH DRAWING
August 26 winner of $300:
Steven & Patricia Reynolds
4980 Oakwood Lane
Next Week: $100 Cash Award
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS.....
1. WEEK OF AUGUST 29 -- There are no scheduled City Council or
Commission meetings the week of August 29.
2. BUDGET STUDY SESSION I -- Tuesday, September 6, 1988, 7:00 p.m.
City Council conference room.
3. NEXT COUNCIL MEETING -- Tuesday, September 13. Regular City Council
meeting. The meeting will begin at 8 :00 P.M. after the polls close
for the primary election.
4. LMC REGIONAL MEETING -- Monday, September 12. Attached is
information from the League of Minnesota Cities on the regional
meeting to be held at Robert Lee's Restaurant in New Brighton. The
afternoon session, 2:30 - 5:00 p.m., includes a presentation on
personnel issues. From 3:45 - 5:00 p.m. there will be two separate
roundtables to discuss the State's new property tax system and how
cities are progressing with their comparable worth plans. Beginning
at 5:00 p.m., the League will present to City officials and
legislators a special slide show on the "State of the Cities." The
evening session, 5:30 - 9:30 p.m., deals with legislative issues
with member cities voting on the League issue papers. If you plan
to attend, please notify Laurie. (M -4)
5. CALENDARS -- Meeting calendars for September and October are
attached. The September calendar reflects the September 6 inspec-
tion of Fire Station I at 6 :00 p.m. (M -5)
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
August 26, 1988
Page 2
FOR YOUR INFORMATION ....
1. PROJECTED PROPERTY TAX IMPACTS OF RECENT TAX "REFORM" LEGISLATION -
Attached is a table showing the projected property tax impacts of
recent tax "reform" legislation. (I -1)
2. CABLE TV SURVEY -- Northwest Community Television recently hired
Decision Resources, Inc. to conduct a viewership survey. At the
August 24 Northwest Community Television Board meeting, results of
the survey were reported. Results have a margin of error of plus or
minus five percent.
The following may be of interest to Council:
° Forty -six percent of the 400 people surveyed watched local
programs on cable television.
° Channels 23 through 37 drew the largest market share with
39 percent.
° Regional Channel 6 drew a 27 percent market share.
° Channels 63 - 67 registered a market share of 20 percent.
° In those cities televising City Council meetings, (Plymouth,
Golden Valley and Crystal), 53 percent of those people who
watch local programming had watched a City Council meeting
within the last six months.
° Of those cities cablecasting Council meetings, Plymouth City
Council meetings had the highest viewship, with 67 percent
reporting that they had watched within the last six months.
Councilmembers who would like a complete copy of the survey results
and /or executive summary, may contact Helen LaFave.
3. CABLE TELEVISION UPDATE -- The City's latest cable program, "Water:
Satisfying Plymouth's Thirst," was completed and was cablecast in
August. The 19- minute program outlines Plymouth's philosophy of
planned expansion of the water system combined with conservation.
The program also features specific water conservation tips.
The portion of the program outlining ways to conserve water also has
been edited into a separate 6- minute piece which may be shown alone.
"Water: Satisyfing Plymouth's Thirst" will be shown on channel 37
on Tuesday, August 30 at 5:35 p.m. It is preceded by the most
recent Mayor's Forum on Water Issues. The Mayor's Forum begins at
4 :40 p.m.
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDU!:
August 26, 1988
Page 3
4. COUNCIL FOLLOW -UPS:
a. Special Assessment Objections - Fernbrook Lane Improvements --
At the public hearing held on August 15, eight property owners
within the Kingsview Heights 2nd Addition objected to the
special assessment. They stated that when they purchased the
property, they were unaware of the pending assessment for the
Fernbrook Lane improvements. At the meeting, the property
owners were informed that if a special assessment search was
requested on their property, it would indicate whether there was
a pending assessment for Fernbrook Lane.
Fred Moore has sent a letter to each of the property owners
together with the special assessment search performed on their
property. All of the searches indicate a pending assessment for
the Fernbrook Lane improvements. Fred has also informed the
property owners that they should check with their mortgage
company to see if funds have been placed in escrow.
Since the adoption of the assessment roll on August 15, we have
received one assessment payment from a mortgage company that was
holding escrow funds.
b. Boyer Palmer -- Attached is a memorandum from the City Assessor
addressing the complaint received by the Mayor concerning the
valuation of two commercial buildings owned by Mr. Boyer.
(I -4b)
C. Schmidt Lake Road -- Attached is a copy of the Mayor's response
to a letter to the editor published in the August 18 Plymouth
Post on the City Council's plans to extend Schmidt Lake Road.
(I -4c)
d. Home Occupation -- Attached is a follow up memorandum from Myra
Gibson on the home occupation violation on County Road 6 brought
to our attention by Councilmember Vasiliou. (I -4d)
5. MINUTES:
a. Metropolitan Recycling Task Force, August 29, 1988. (I -5a)
6. DEPARTMENT REPORTS -- duly monthly activity reports for the Police
and Fire Divisions are attached. (I -6)
7. HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION DAY -- Hennepin County has
scheduled a one -day household hazardous waste collection day for
Saturday, September 10 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year the
collection sites are located in Bloomington, Crystal, Minneapolis
and Minnetonka. Attached is the collection day flyer being
distributed by the County. (I -7)
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
August 26, 198`;
Page 4
8. CORRESPONDENCE:
a. Letter from Roger Fazendin, The Villages Homeowners Association,
to City Council, requesting the City to consider an exception to
the parking ordinance. Also attached is a response from Frank
Boyles. (I -8a)
b. Letter notifying District 284 Community Education of the
appointment of Lynes Getten as the Plymouth representative to
the District Community Education Advisory Council. (I -8b)
c. Letter to Jerry Sisk, from David Landswerk, Wayzata Schools
Superintendent, for participating in the groundbreaking for the
Plymouth Creek Elementary School. (I -8c)
d. Letter to Forrest Harstad, Harstad Companies, from Joe Ryan,
confirming the placement of unauthorized fill material on Lot 4,
Block 6, Kingsview Heights Second Addition. (I -8d)
e. Letter to Carol Zalusky, 2325 Kirkwood Lane, from Myra Gibson,
concerning a sight obstruction problem at the intersection of
Campus Drive and Northwest Boulevard. (I -8e)
f. Customer Counter Comment Card from Rolfe Kurtyka on service
provided by Al Cottingham. (I -8f)
g. Letter sent to neighboring residents to Plymouth Gun Club
advising of the Club's annual shoot on August 27. (I -8g)
h. Letter from Marjorie Lyman concerning complaint with the court
system and Mayor's response. (I -8h)
James G. Willis
City Manager
JGW:Jm
attachments
-
League of Minnesota Cities
August 23, 1988
18.3 University Ave. East
St. Paul, ?ESN 55101 -252 ;;
(612) 227 -56100 (FAX: 221 -0966)
TO: Mayors, Managers, and Clerks
Al_/—I/
FROM: James Scheibel, President, League of Minnesota Cities
Council President, City of St. Paul
RE: 1988 LMC Regional Meetings /Issue Papers
Each year the League of Minnesota Cities conducts a series of regional
meetings to provide an informal occasion for local officials to join in
shaping the LMC agenda for the next legislative session. The regional
meetings provide a special avenue for the League's board, officers, and
staff to receive direction from local officials on the priorities of
municipalities throughout the state.
The regional meetings are important to appropriate policy formation.
The meetings are a time to discuss our commonalities and our
diversities as Minnesota municipalities, and to identify the strengths
and needs on which we want to act. The regional meetings are also a
time for us to share as local elected officials.
The focus of the afternoon program, which begins at 2:30 pm, is
personnel issues such as how to employ, terminate, discipline, and
develop an affirmative action plan. There also will be two separate
roundtables to discuss Minnesota's new property tax system and how your
city is progressing with its comparable worth plan.
The evening's agenda will deal with important legislative issues.
Attached are issue papers on truth in taxation requirements, the
homestead credit program, land use legislation, the local government
pay equity act, PERA pension benefits, the development of an ethical
code for elected officials, and the tax - exempt status of municipal
bonds. At each regional meeting, participants will be asked to
complete a ballot sheet indicating their positions on these issues.
Please review these issue papers with your council so your city is
prepared to complete the ballot.
This year, the League is adding a new dimension to our regional
meetings. We will present a special slide show for city officials and
legislators on the "State of the Cities." The slide show details the
latest information about the financial status of Minnesota's cities.
PLEASE PERSONALLY INVITE YOUR LEGISLATORS TO THE REGIONAL MEETING YOUR
CITY WILL BE ATTENDING. This will give you an opportunity to discuss
these critical issues with your own legislators.
= = == OVER = = ==
M- y . -
Mayors, Managers, and Clerks
Page 2
August 23, 1988
I sincerely hope you will be able to attend the regional meeting in
your area. Your participation is welcomed. Each city will receive an
invitation from the host city in your area. However, if for some
reason you do not, please call the contact person listed for the
regional meeting your city would like to attend to make reservations.
League of Minnesota Cities 1988 Regional Meetings
Agenda
Afternoon Session -- 2:30 - 5:00 nm
1. Personnel Issues -- How to hire, fire, discipline, deal with
(2:30 - 3:30 pm) veteran preference hearings, and develop
an affirmative action program
2. Break -- 3:30 - 3:45 pm
3. Round Table Discussions -- Comparable Worth Plans and
Implementation Schedules
Minnesota's New Property Tax System
State of the Cities Briefing -- 5:00 - 5:30 pm
A special slide show presentation, for city officials and legislators,
conccrning the "State of the Cities." The slide show will highlight the
financial status of cities -- trends in city spending, property taxes,
state aids, and public employment.
Evening Session -- 5:30 - 9:30 pm
1. Social Hour -- 5:30 - 6:15 pm
2. Dinner -- 6:30 pm
3. Welcome by Host City
4. Welcome by LMC President, James Scheibel
5. Presentation of Issue Papers and Discussion
6. Comments by Legislators and Legislative Candidates
League of Minnesota Cities
163 University Ave. East
St. Pan?, MN 55141 -2526
(612) 227.5600 (FAX: 221 -095)
League of Minnesota Cities 1988 Regional Meetings
Date City Location /Contact Person
Tues., September 6 Bemidji Holiday Inn
Dorothy Boe, City Clerk
(218) 751 -5610
Wed.,
September 7
Floodwood
Floodwood Community Center
Mary Larva, City Clerk
(218) 476 -2751
Thurs.,
September 8
Hoyt Lakes
Hoyt Lakes Arena
Rick Bradford, Administrator
(218) 225 -2344
Mon.,
September 12
New Brighton
Robert Lee's Restaurant
Pat Lindquist
(612) 633 -1533
Wed.,
September 14
Plummer
Afternoon: Plummer City Hall
Evening: Plummer School
Deb DuChamp, City Clerk
(218) 465 -4239
Thurs., September 15 Henning
Mon., September 19 Tracy
Tues., September 20 Kerkhoven
Wed., September 21 Cold Spring
Thurs., September 22 Pine City
Henning Community Center
Wilma Morse, Clerk - Treasurer
(218) 583 -2402
Tracy Servicmen's Center
David Spencer, Finance Director
(507) 629 -4020
Kerkhoven Civic Center
Mona Doering, Clerk- Treasurer
(507) 264 -2581
Blue Heron
Verena Weber, Clerk- Treasurer
(612) 685 -3653
Community Room, Munc. Bldg.
Dan Kieselhorst, Clk- Treas.
(612) 629 -2988
Mon., September 26 Plainview Afternoon: American Legion
Evening: Clayt's Supper Club
Don Koverman, Administrator
(507) 534 -2229
= = == OVER - = ==
League of Minnesota Cities 1988 Regional Meetings
(continued)
Date City Location /Contact Person
Tues., September 27 Austin Austin Country Club
Darrell Stacy, Administrator
(507) 437 -7671
Wed., September 28 St. James St. James VFW Club
David Osberg, City Manager.
(507) 375 -3241
Thurs., September 29 New Prague New Prague Golf Club
Jerome Bohnsack, Admin. -Clerk
(612) 758 -4401
�!j
r ul A.
Question
/ "! - L/
Should. I[he League support the new Truth in Taxation
process with amendments to make it workable?
Background
For payable 1990, all cities (except those under 2,500 population), counties, school
districts, and certain special districts must comply with a new "Truth in Taxation"
process. That process will require:
• adopting a budget and certifying a levy to the county auditor by August 15
of every year;
• mailing by September 15 of an individual notice to each taxpayer indicating
the effect of the proposed tax increase on the taxpayer's property tax bill
(the increases separately for each local unit);
• publishing a one - quarter page advertisement in a newspaper of general
paid circulation notifying citizens of a public hearing to discuss proposed
tax increases; and
• holding a public budget hearing by October 25 at which time the council
(board) must finalize the budget which cannot exceed the original budget
proposed on August 15.
Current League Position
The League has taken no position yet, because this is a new provision.
Arguments
Should the League support the new Truth in Taxation
process with amendments to make it workable?
Yes
• It would be politically naive and per-
ceived as unreasonable for the
League to oppose Truth in Taxation.
League opposition would make it ap-
pear that cities fear having to face the
public and disclose facts about their
budgets and levies.
No
• With tight levy limits (Payable 1990
levy limit will be only three percent),
Truth in Taxation is redundant and
overly restrictive of cities' budget
making abilities.
- over -
Issue Paper -4988 Regional Meetings- -Page 1
M _ L/
Question
S'honfd the League support t: le rev-- rfruti� in Taxation
process with amendments to niai e it workable?
Arguments (continued)
Yes
League opposition would be fruitless
because the Legislature is committed
to keeping Truth in Taxation. Legis-
lators believe that such a process will
help make local units more
"accountable" to the public for their
levy and budget decisions. In addi-
tion, legislators believe Truth in
Taxation will make local taxpayers
better understand how local
governments - -not the state - -set
property tax levels.
• Truth in Taxation hearings could be
useful to cities in helping them
demonstrate to local taxpayers the
cost of state mandates (like com-
parable worth, for example). Truth in
Taxation hearings could also help
make taxpayers understand how state
aids can have a major impact on tax-
payer bills. It will also indicate cities'
portion of tax bill relative to other lo-
cal units.
The League's general support for
Truth in Taxation would put cities in
a better position to successfully seek
amendments that will make the
process more workable and less
onerous for cities. Only if the League
is cooperative can we hope to im-
prove the new law.
• With the existence of Truth in Taxa-
tion, the League could make a better
case for loosening or eliminating levy
limits. For example, the League
could recommend that the state re-
quire Truth in Taxation only if a local
unit needs to exceed its levy limit; if
the local unit stays within the levy
limit then no Truth in Taxation
would be required.
No
Truth in Taxation will be a very costly
process: cities must share (with
counties and schools) in the cost of
generating individual notices
(estimated to cost $2 per notice) and
the quarter -page newspaper ad can
cost as much as $2,000 in some
newspapers.
o The August 15 levy certification date
is far too early for cities to be able to
make realistic budget projections for
the coming year. This early date- -
comained with the requirement that
the final adopted budget not exceed
the original August 15 proposed
budget- -will put cities in a financial
strait jacket.
The method for calculating the
proposed property tax increases
which will appear on taxpayer state-
ments will be misleading and inac-
curate. The proposed property tax in-
creases will likely overstate the
impact of budget increases on tax
bills and likely to alarm taxpayers.
Issue Paper - -1988 Regional Meetings- -Page 2
Lee; ue o! M+ ca—
7 C
,; 0 M 1 S, a rd ems`. ,
Question
Al_
Should the league support the change to eliminate the
Homestead Credit and convert it into an aid program,
called Transition Aid beginning with taxes payable
1990?
Background
A law that the Senate Taxes Committee drafted, has scheduled elimination of
Homestead Credit in Payable 1990 to be replaced by "Transition Aid."
For the homeowner, the benefit of the Homestead Credit will become part of the
new classification structure. The tax capacity percentage (or assessment rate) for
homes under $68,000 will decrease from 2.17 percent to 1.00 percent in 1990.
Property tax statements will continue to show a "synthetic" Homestead Credit even
though the credit is discontinued in 1990. In the first year, this "synthetic" Home-
stead Credit will reflect approximately the same amount of tax relief that each
homestead received through the past Homestead Credit. However, if the property
value of the homestead increases or if the local tax capacity rate (mill rate) in-
creases, this "synthetic" Homestead Credit amount shown to the homeowner will
automatically increase even though the Transition Aid that the local unit receives
may decline or remain the same.
For local governments, Transition Aid payments will replace the Homestead
Credit. In the first year (1990), Transition Aid payments will approximately reim-
burse each local government for the tax base it will lose by lowering the tax
capacity percentage on lower - valued homes from 2.17 to 1.00 percent. Thus,
Transition Aid payments in 1990 will be roughly similar to what the local unit
received from the Homestead Credit reimbursement in 1989.
In future years, however, the formula for allocating Transition Aid could change.
Senate authors of the Transition Aid program have stated that Transition Aid
funding could gradually decrease in the future while the funding for other aid
programs increases. For example, Senate authors have suggested that the portion
of Transition Aid going to schools could be redirected through the school aid
formula. Similarly the portion of Transition Aid going to cities could be redirected
through the Local Government Aid (LGA) formula.
Current Position
The League's policy does not specifically support or oppose the elimination of
the Homestead Credit.
- over -
Issue Paper -4988 Regional Meetings - -Page 3
M -y,
Arguments
Should the League support the change to eliminate the
Homestead Credit and convert it into an aid program,
called Transition Aid beginning with taxes payable
1990?
Yes
• Converting the Homestead Credit to
an aid program will free up roughly
$700 million in property tax relief
funds and would allow the Legisla-
ture to allocate those funds dif-
ferently from the way they are cur-
rently allocated. For example, more
aid could go to communities with
greater needs and lower wealth.
(Under the current Homestead
Credit program, legislators have less
discretion over redirecting funds.)
• The state could fund LGA for cities
at a higher level. In the past, most in-
creases in property tax relief dollars
went to the growing Homestead
Credit program. Converting the
Credit program into an aid program
would give the Legislature more con-
trol over spending for that program
and allow them to channel more dol-
lars to LGA.
• The Legislature has misperceived the
Homestead Credit program as a
strong incentive to local governments
to spend and levy more, making local
governments less "accountable" to
taxpayers. Eliminating the Home-
stead Credit will eliminate that
misperception.
• State spending for the Transition Aid
program will be more predictable and
stable than state spending for the
Homestead Credit has been, since
the new aid program will not neces-
sarily be linked to local property tax
levels.
No
• Cuts in the new Transition Aid
program would be easier for the
Legislature to make because there
would no longer be a direct link be-
tween the Homestead Credit that
shows up on homeowners' tax state-
ments and the aid the state pays to
local governments.
• Unlike the LGA program, taxpayers
understand the Homestead Credit
program. It is a popular program for
which the Legislature has maintained
funding. Taxpayers are not likely to
understand or support funding for
the new Transition Aid program.
• The new Transition Aid program is
an "aid" program, like LGA. Annual
battles over formula changes and
manipulation of the formula are
more likely.
• The lower - wealth communities that
may receive more aid under the new
Transition Aid program (than they
did under Homestead Credit) will
become less self - reliant and more
dependent upon state aid, making
them more vulnerable to the state's
potential financial problems and
potentially more subject to state dic-
tates about how the city finances its
services and what it provides.
• The disparities in homestead tax bur-
dens between communities could
widen.
Issue Paper -4988 Regional Meetings= -Page 4
n-...—;
Local G-Tv'f. rnmen L PayEqulitykct
Question
/�)-y
Should the League support the following changes to the Local
Government Pay Equity Act....
• Review of pay equity plans by state agencies?
• Arbitration review of city plans?
• A clarification of the definition of implementation?
• A definition stating that a city has accomplished im-
plementation when the trend line for female classes and
the trend line for male classes of employees are substan-
tially equal?
Background -- General
The Legislature in 1984 mandated that every local government conduct a comparable
worth study, report the results of its study to the state by October 1, 1985, and imple-
ment its plan for establishing equitable compensation relationships among female,
male, and balanced classes of employees by October 1, 1987. The bill did not set
penalties for non - compliance.
By early 1988, over 80 percent of cities had filed their reports and many had imple-
mented their plans to make the compensation adjustments that their studies indicated.
The Legislature acted in 1988 to compel compliance for non - reporting jurisdictions by
imposing a stricter levy limit on those communities which have not reported by October
1, 1988. The law also set a penalty for cities and other local governments which do not
complete implementation by December 31, 1991. Their local government aid will
decrease by five percent for each year they have not implemented their plan.
Both the Department of Human Rights and the Department of Employee Relations
(DOER) sought additional changes to the law, which the League and other local govern-
ment representatives were able to successfully delay. These issues and others are likely
to be presented to the 1989 Legislature.
- over -
Issue Paper- -1988 Regional Meetings - -Page 5
/-/_ '7'.
Pay Equltv--Rev1QFF' o3L plan -C
Some proponents of comparable worth have alleged that some studies that local govern-
ments have done are defective either because the methodology used was flawed or be-
cause the study was done in bad faith. The law allows challenges through the Human
Rights Department or the courts, but the Human Rights Department wants legislation
that would provide a mechanism by which that department may decide that a particular
system is defective. The department has suggested one option where the commissioners
of human rights and DOER would consult and decide whether a study is defective.
Regardless of which review mechanism is preferred, unless the Legislature establishes
standards and criteria by which to conduct a review there is no "safe harbor" for cities
and other local units of government: every study would be open to challenge.
Current League Position:
None.
Arguments
Should the League support...
• DOER review of city plans?
• Human Rights Department review of city plans?
• Both departments review of city plans?
Yes
• Designating the commissioners as the
review mechanism would be simple
and efficient. The Department of
Employee Relations has the most ex-
perience with the law since it helped
draft and lobby the 1984 bill.
Arguments
Should the League support...
• Arbitration review of city plans?
Yes
• Setting up a panel similar to a
veterans' preference panel where
employees select a representative,
the employer selects a representa-
tive, and those two designees select
a third, neutral representative would
more likely result in unbiased deci-
sions.
No
If review of some type is necessary, it
is imperative that the reviewing body
is as neutral as possible. Neither of
these departments is neutral. They
are advocates of certain con-
stituencies and interests, and should
not have authority to judge the merits
of a particular study.
No
• The current system of allowing chal-
lenges through the Department of
Human Rights or the courts is suffi-
cient.
Issue Paper - -1988 Regional Meetings - -Page 6
M- y
Pay Equity -- Definition of Implementation
Both the original law and the 1988 penalty law require implementation, vet many people-
believe that term is not satisfactorily defined. Some local governments have used com-
pensation corridors which some view as institutionalizing pay disparities. These corridors
work as follows: the local government draws an all class or employee trend line and states
that it will implement the law to bring all classes of employees to within 10 percent (or
other percentage) of the line. Because most male classes would be along the top of the
corridor and most female classes would be along the bottom of the corridor comparable
worth proponents argue that this approach institutionalizes a 20 percent disparity in com-
pensation between women and men, the very thing comparable worth was intended to
eliminate.
They, therefore, argue that a definition of implementation is necessary. Also, under current
law DOER must indicate which local government is to be penalized for failing to imple-
ment. DOER staff do not like corridors or the all - employee line to the extent that a public
employer indicates that it will use these permanently, so any use of corridors as part of a
city's implementation will likely be disallowed by DOER unless the Legislature specifically
authorizes cities to use corridors.
Current League Position
None.
Arguments
Should the League support...
A clarification of the definition of implementation?
Yes No
• Without a satisfactory definition of
implementation, DOER will be
asked to enforce an ambiguous law,
perhaps to the disadvantage of local
governments.
- over -
No definition of implementation is
acceptable.
In defining implementation, the
Legislature will need to address the
issues of contracting out or terminat-
ing programs or services as a result
of comparable worth; joint powers
entities or other units which are al-
most exclusively female; main-
tenance or updating of plans; use of
market rates to justify departures
from the studies, and; arbitration
awards that substantially ignore the
findings of the studies.
Issue Paper - -1988 Regional Meetings - -Page 7
Axguments
Should the League support...
e A definition stating that a city has accomplished implementation
when the trend line for female classes and the trend line for mate
classes of employees are substantially equal?
Yes
• Using this definition of implementa-
tion will eliminate many of the incon-
sistences and ambiguities, which
could likelyy result in fewer chal-
lenges to local plans and more effi-
cient implementation.
W
• In order to use a trend line manv
employers will use corridors which
result in most male classes being at
the top of the corridor and most
female classes at the bottom result-
ing in a 20 percent disparity in corn-
pensation between men and women.
Issue Paper -4988 Regional Meetings- -Page 8
Question
M V
Should the 1-.eague support the passage of a reeodified,
unified, and modified land use planning law?
Background
The League has been cooperating and participating in a review of the municipal
land use planning statutes. The Governor's Advisory Council on State -Local Rela-
tions is conducting that review. That effort has produced draft legislation which
was initially before the 1988 Legislature.
The draft legislation makes many substantial changes to the current planning and
zoning statutes (Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 462). These changes would require
the creation of a separate board of adjustment (city councils would not be able
to issue variances, but could only review the action of the board of adjustment
on appeal); modify the definition of undue hardship required for issuance of
variances to a lower, easier to meet standard of undue difficulty, require the adop-
tion of a brief comprehensive plan as a prerequisite of adopting zoning or other
official controls, and; prohibit the practice of conditional zoning where a city
agrees to rezone a parcel of property but only if the owner complies with certain
conditions. The legislation also authorizes cities to impose impact fees on develop-
ment in order to pay for infrastructure improvements.
Current League Position
The League supports selected amendments to the existing planning enabling
statutes and opposes proposals that restrict cities' current substantive and
procedural flexibility to address unique circumstances.
Argument
Should the League support the passage of a recodified,
unified, and modified land use planning law?
Yes
• The legislation would unify the local
government planning statutes making
land use control powers and
procedures easier to teach and learn.
It would clear up existing ambiguities
in the law, provide additional author-
ity to cities in some regards, and at-
tempt to promote intergovernmental
cooperation among local units of
government.
No
The legislation would create as many
uncertainties as it would resolve, as
well as restrict cities' flexibility in
adopting administrative procedures
and structures that meet unique local
needs. Further, opponents of the
legislation argue that the current law
is not broken and there is no need for
substantial reform.
Issue Paper- -1988 Regional Meetings - -Page 9
M -�
M KM1fKKL CIII!'t
`Vw4 1«
Question
Should the League support the increases in PERA pen-
sion benefits, which could lead to removal of other
benefits from members, and increased costs to
employers?
Background
During the 1988 session, Senator Don Moe introduced legislation to provide a level
benefit formula for coordinated members of 1.5 percent of salary per year for all
years of service (now one percent for first 10 years and 1.5 percent thereafter); and
change the normal retirement age to 62 (now 65) as a substitute for the current three
percent per year reduction in benefits applicable to those retiring before age 65, which
would be replaced by the actuarial rate (approximately six percent per year under
age 65) By proposing benefit increases, he hoped to gain support for eliminating the
rule of 90 and the favorable early retirement reduction factor, both available to PERA
members but not to those in other statewide funds. Although the Senate passed this
proposal, the House leadership refused to accept the package, because it removes
benefits arguably contractually committed, at least as to vested members, and because
of its high long -term costs.
The proposed level formula benefit would phase in over five years and thus be rela-
tively inexpensive in the early years. However, over the next 22 years, it would cost
PERA employers and employees over $730 million each and require a contribution
increase of 0.75 percent of salary from each. Of greater significance is the impact on
the state treasury. Because the state pays the employer cost for state employee retire-
ment and indirectly for teachers, the proposal would take an additional amount in
excess of $2 billion from the state treasury over the same time. Obviously, this would
substantially reduce the amount of discretionary funds available for local government
aid, property tax relief, and many other programs in future years.
Legislators are sure to raise the issue again in the 1989 session. There will be strong
employee support for legislation providing all the proposed benefit increases without
the proposed benefit cuts. 'Thus, any 1989 legislation is likely to be even more expen-
sive than the 1988 proposal.
Current League Position
The League opposes the repeal of the rule of 90 and any other benefit which people
have relied on during their employment. Therefore, the League opposes the proposal.
- over -
Issue Paper -4988 Regional Meetings - -Page 11
Arguments
Should, the League support
lion benefits, which could
benefits from members,
employers?
Yes
Coordinated PERA formula benefits
per year of service are low in com-
parison with retirement benefits
provided to public employees in other
states: Wisconsin 1.6 percent; North
Dakota 1.5 percent; South Dakota 1.2
percent; or 2.0 percent less Social
Security.
The proposal would make teachers' and
state employees' benefits more nearly
equal to PERA benefits.
/1/_V
tk-111 increases in PERA, per,
lead to removal of other
and increased costs to
No
o The long -term expense of this proposal
would crowd out other needed programs
like property tax relief and local govern-
ment aids.
6 Coordinated PERA benefits are not low
when compared to average retirement
benefits of all Minnesotans nor do they
typically provide a substandard retire-
ment benefit to full career (30 years and
longer) employees when Social Security
benefits are figured in (40 percent of
high five years average salary, plus So-
cial Security).
Issue Paper - -1988 Regional Meetings- -Page 12
i.
t�l �.+ w.r C✓ .✓ C is .� d s: s., �►s- �..�.. w �.- �
Question
o, tL- n gl�] Ce, T 7
M -y
Should the League support a state- mandated system of voting
equipment?
Background
During the 1987 session, legislators considered a proposal that would have barred first class
cities from using optical scan equipment unless they altered the equipment to meet certain
requirements. During the same session, other legislation would have required party row
balloting. Those requirements would have had serious impact on cities and required ex-
pensive equipment changes. (Party row balloting means that the candidates of each political
party are listed in a row on the ballot, similar in design to the ballot for lever voting
machines.) Party row balloting would require costly retrofitting of optical scan equipment.
During the 1987 mini session, legislators discussed a "color- coded" ballot. The Legislature
approved the requirement as an amendment to the secretary of state's housekeeping legis-
lation in the '88 session. The requirement mandates that paper ballot layout provide three
vertical columns and that each major political party have a separate column. Cities which
have punch card voting systems that cannot accommodate a party punch indicator may not
use the punch card system in a state partisan primary election.
Current League Position
The League currently supports state law permitting cities to select whichever state -
approved voting equipment the city prefers to best meet the needs of the community.
It is the League's policy that cities' investment in voting equipment must be protected. The
secretary of state's certification of equipment should be thorough and provide assurance
that the equipment will be usable and reliable over a long period of time.
Arguments
Should the League support a state - mandated system of voting
equipment?
Yes
• For some time, lawmakers have been
concerned about the extent to which
some voting equipment fails to prevent
primary election voters from crossing
over and voting for candidates of op-
posite political parties, thereby in-
validating their ballot. The party punch
indicator allows voters to indicate a
party preference at a partisan primary
and aids in accurate and efficient count-
ing of partisan primary election results.
No
The League opposes state - mandated
changes in election laws that do not
benefit city elections; are difficult to
administer; or make current city voting
equipment obsolete or costly to retrofit.
Issue Paper - -1988 Regional Meetings - -Page 13
(_,ode of Etwl CS f 0,
Public Of cials
Question
Should the League recommend a code of
elected officials which it could present to
lature if that body proposes a state code o f
public officials?
Background
ethics for
the Legis-
ethics for
Members of the 1987 Elections and Ethics Committee considered ethical
issues confronting city officials. The committee examined current statutes on
conflict of interest, and sought legal guidance on possible inconsistencies be-
tween laws on conflict of interest in contracts and incompatibility of offices.
Members of the Metropolitan Area Managers Association and the Minnesota
Association of Urban Management Assistants have also been reviewing cur-
rent state law that regulates the public actions and behavior of local officials.
Their work has led to the development of a proposed code of conduct for
appointed officials.
In early August, the Senate Governmental Operations Committtee heard tes-
timony from the executive directors of the Massachusetts and Wisconsin Et-
hics Commissions on the regulation of ethical conduct of state and local of-
ficials. Senators expressed concern about how much authority such entities
should have to enforce ethical standards at the local level.
Current League Position
The League supports an in -depth study of state law as it relates to official
conduct of interest and incompatible offices in order to offer amendments to
the State Legislature.
City officials recognize the importance of avoiding conflict of interest and
work hard to maintain public trust and confidence. Because of the importance
of ethical issues, many city officials feel the League should offer recommenda-
tions to the Legislature.
- over -
Issue Paper - -1988 Regional Meetings- -Page 15
/1J -y
Al guments
Should the League recommend a code of ethics for
elected officials which it could present to the Legis-
lature if that body proposes a state code of ethics for
public officials?
Yes No
While many cities have adopted offi-
cial codes of ethics, many officials are
unfamiliar with conflict of interest
statutes and ethical principles that
apply to day -to -day city policymaking
or operations. The League has exten-
sive experience in working with both
elected and appointed city officials.
LMC, through a committee of city of-
ficials, is the appropriate forum for
the development of recommendation
to cities on the adoption of local
codes of ethics. The League also
needs to be prepared to make recom-
mendations to the Legislature con-
cerning the adoption of a state code
of ethics for public officials.
Ethical judgments are intensely per-
sonal and specific to actual cir-
cumstances and actions and cannot
be adequately legislated or codified
through state legislation. There may
be some problems and confusion that
result from inconsistencies in the
state law on conflict of interest and
incompatibility of offices. However,
there is no evidence or indication
that creation of a statewide code
would offer better outcomes or as-
sistance to local officials beyond that
already available through state
statutes and court decisions and
through the adoption of local codes
of ethics that respond to local
cirumstances and needs.
Further, since any code of ethics
codified in the statutes would affect
county, township, and school officials
as much as city officials, the League
should not expend the resources to
take the lead on this problem,
knowing in advance the tremendous
time demands needed to familiarize
and gain approval of local
governmental entities.
Issue Paper- -1988 Regional Meetings - -Page 16
Sri
t T jl'
a
Question
Should the League support federal legislation to re-
establish tax - exemption for municipal bonds?
Background
The LMC Federal Legislative Committee is considering a policy to support local au-
thority to raise revenues without federal intrusion. The policy would include support
for establishing tax- exempt municipal borrowing by means of federal legislation.
In April, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in South Carolina v. Baker that there is no
constitutional protection (under the theory of reciprocal immunity) providing immunity
from taxation for municipal bonds. Therefore, cities must seek enactment of federal -
local fiscal policy which recognizes and maintains local authority to issue tax- exempt
bonds and refrains from interfering with traditional methods of local government
financing.
Current League Position
The League supports the tax- exempt status of municipal bond interest and urges
Congress to conduct a comprehensive review of restrictions on tax- exempt financing
under the 1986 Tax Reform Act. The League seeks restoration of cities' authority to
use tax- exempt municipal bonds, particularly for housing, local improvements, and
development designed to maintain and create jobs and to improve the local economy.
Arguments
Should the League support federal legislation to re-
establish tax- exemption for municipal bonds?
Yes
With the prospect of a long -term
struggle over a growing federal
deficit, further challenges to tax -
exempt financing appear inevitable
unless legislative action reverses or
halts the trend.
• The 1988 Technical Corrections
(Tax) Act now pending in Congress
threatens to add significant and
costly record - keeping and tax
liability provisions that would
severely restrict the use of municipal
bonds for public purposes. Many
cities want legislation to expand the
exemption for smaller cities which
No
The Supreme Court has consistently
ruled against the doctrine of inter -
governental (reciprocal) tax im-
munity and is simply applying that
legal viewpoint to municipal financ-
ing. There is no basis for distinquish-
ing between costs imposed on cities
by a tax on municipal bond interest
from costs imposed on cities by a tax
on the income from any other con-
tract with the city, according to the
authors of the recent Supreme Court
decision. U.S. Treasury officials have
long held that the federal govern-
ment had the authority to impose
such taxes.
- over - Issue Paper -4988 Regional Meetings- -Page 17
Question
Should the 11-,eague support- federal leg�siation to re-
establish tax-exemption for municipal bonds?
Arguments (continued)
Yes
issue more than $5 million in bonds
in a year to a more realistic limit of
$10 million per year. Cities also need
tax - exempt financing for job crea-
tion; construction and rehabilitation
of affordable low and moderate in-
come housing (single family
mortgage revenue bonds); and the
financing of low- income rental
housing.
s Without federal legislation, cities
(and states) face the inevitable loss
of what remains of their sovereign
powers to raise revenues without the
intrusion or intereference of the
federal government.
W
Legislative action will simply delay
the inevitable as Congress attempts
to assure that the federal tax system
expands to raise revenues to reduce
the deficit.
Issue Paper - -1988 Regional Meetings - -Page 18
Issue
Truth in Taxation
Should the League support the new Truth in Taxation process
with amendments to make it workable?
Homestead Credit
Should the League support the change to eliminate the Home-
stead Credit and convert it into an aid program, called Transi-
tion Aid beginning with taxes payable 1990?
Pay Equity
Should the League support the following changes to the Local
Government Pay Equity Act....
• Review of pay equity plans by state agencies?
• Arbitration review of city plans?
• A clarification of the definition of implementation?
• A definition stating that a city has accomplished im-
plementation when the trend line for female classes and
the trend line for male classes of employees are substan-
tially equal?
Land Use
Should the League support the passage of a recodified,
unified, and modified land use planning law?
PERA
Should the League support the increases in PERA pension
benefits, which could lead to removal of other benefits from
members, and increased costs to employers?
State - Mandated Voting Equipment
Should the League support a state - mandated system of voting
equipment?
Code of Ethics
Should the League recommend a code of ethics for elected
officials which it could present to the Legislature if that body
proposes a state code of ethics for public officials?
Federal Tax Policy
Should the League support federal legislation to re- establish
tax- exemption for municipal bonds?
Yes
No
1988 Regional Meetings
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1
CITI / OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD.. PLYNA'OUTH. MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
DATE: August 19, 1988
TO: James G. Willis, City Manager
FROM: Virgil Schneider, Mayor
SUBJECT COMPLAINT FROM BOYER PALMER (476 -4694 - WORK)
I received a complaint from Boyer Palmer regarding the valuation of two
commmercial buildings which he owns. The buildings are at 14495 - 23rd
Avenue North and the building immediately east of this address.
Boyer advises that he called Scott Hovet before the Board of Review to
complain about the values established for his buildings. At that time,
Scott told him that he would be willing to set down and talk with Boyer
about the values, but there was not a need for him to appear at the Board of
Review. Therefore, at that time Boyer did not attend the Board of Review
or write a letter objecting to the values. Boyer is still objecting to the
values and in talking with Scott recently he was told, "It's too late" and
that the appeal period was over.
Boyer's problem on these two buildings is that they are valued at $2.20 per
foot, while other comparable buildings he owns are valued at $1.70 per foot.
Would you please follow up on Boyer's complaint and advise me as to your
findings.
-z--- /-/ �b
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: August 22, 1988
TO: James G. Willis, City Manager
FROM: Scott L. Hovet, City Assessor '
SUBJECT: COMPLAINT FROM BOYER PAIbER VIA VIRGIL SCHNEIDER
On several occasions Mr. Boyer Palmer has contacted me regarding the valuation
of 2 Office Warehouse buildings which he owns. The buildings are located at
14325 and 14425 23rd Avenue North. PID #'s 28- 118 -22 -14 -0011 and 0012.
Mr. Palmer has never been advised that it is too late to appeal his valuations
for any assessment year. He has contracted the services of Dan Biersdorf, a
Real Estate Tax Attorney to represent him with his valuation problems. Mr.
Palmer's commercial buildings were under construction during the winter of
1985 and the spring of 1986. Boyer's attorney, Mr. Biersdorf, and I reached
an agreement to adjust the 1986 valuation due to a partially completed
building.
Mr. Biersdorf on behalf of Boyer Palmer, has also filed tax court petitions
against the 1987 valuations to attempt to receive reductions in the 1988
taxes. Mr. Palmer's case is not scheduled to come to trial until
approximately February, 1989.
My office received 42 tax court petitions against Plymouth properties during
1987. We have received 96 court case valuation petitions during 1988 which
will be tried or dismissed during 1989. It would be very helpful to me to
enhance my response if I were to know who to deal with, either Mr. Palmer or
Yx. Biersdorf.
Mr. Palmer has stated that his buildings are valued at $2.20 per square foot
when in fact the taxes payable in 1988 are approximately between $1.75 and
$2.25 per square foot. This falls well within the equalization standards for
this type property in Plymouth.
cc: Tax Court File #8806620
Property Record
Staff
n
xi
�d
CITY OF
August 22, 1988 PUMOUTR
Editor
Plymouth Post
8801 Bass Lake Road
New Hope, MN 55428
Reader Stenoien wrote to object to the City Council's plans to extend
Schmidt Lake Road.
Plymouth does plan to extend Schmidt Lake Road between Zachary and Nathan
Lanes. A portion of the road will cross a DNR protected wetland. Because
of this, the City had an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) prepared.
The EAW concluded that the extension of Schmidt Lake Road would have little
impact on the wetland. Approximately four percent of the wetland will be
invaded by the roadway. This EAW was reviewed by the DNR, Corp of Army
Engineers and a host of other agencies, as well as the public. The route
selected by the City was determined to be the most appropriate route for the
extension of Schmidt Lake Road. The DNR shares in this conclusion.
The question which now remains is when the road should be constructed. We
are currently preparing data which will be submitted to the DNR pursuant to
their permit regulations. The DNR still must approve the actual
construction permit for the road. The fact remains, however, that with the
Issuance of the DNR permit, the City will be required to take actions which
will reduce the impact of the road construction. The City will also be
required to enhance the wetlands by creating more quantity or better quality
wetlands as per the DNR's direction.
Further it should be stated that in 1979 the City had a permit from the DNR
to fill this wetland area, but elected not to proceed because there wasn't a
need at that time.
Sincerely,
Vi gil Schneider
Mayor
VS:kec
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONE (612) 559- 28`)C'
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THE BROOKLYN CENTE
To the Editor:
Thank you for your July 28 editorial entitled "Priceless
Wetlands." It presented a powerful arguement for the preservation
of Wetlands. Yet by the time it reached your readers, the City of
Plymouth was preparing the paperwork that would enable it to
destroy yet another wetland.
A group of Plymouth residents and I have been actively involved
in an effort to halt Plymouth's plan to destroy a significant wetland
on 49th Ave. N., west of County Road 18.
We brought up many of L'.e issues cited in you editorial. Yet our
arguments fell upon deaf ears because the City Council and Ply-
mouth Mayor assert that there is a "need for the extension of
Schmidt Lake Road through these wetlands.
What is this -"need" based on? It's based on the Strgar, et. al.
study (financed by Plymouth) that concluded, "The results of this
analysis clearly "indicate Schmidt Lake Road will be needed by the
year 2010..." This "need" is based on the oft -quoted Plymouth thor-
oughfare plan, which is only about 20 years old. There is. one thing it
is not based on, and this is current need.
Plymouth has applied to the, DNR for the required permdts to build
this road. Since this is a DNA- protected wetland, our only hope is
that the DNR will conclude, as we have, that the city has failed to
demonstrate a current need and that the permit request will be
denied. If not, Plymouth will lose yet another "priceless wetland."
Thomas Stenoien
PLYMOUTH
— Z/C/
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: August 25, 1988
TO: Blair Tremere, Director, Planning & Community /Development
FROM: Myra Gibson, Development Services Technician
SUBJECT: Violation Complaint at 14506 County Road 6
As you recall, on July 22, 1988, Jim Willis, City Manager, forwarded a memo
to you in regard to a possible Home Occupation at 14506 County Road 6, which
Council Member Vasiliou brought to his attention. On August 9, 1988, a Home
Occupation violation letter was sent to a Mr. and Mrs. Earl Schmidt, property
owners of 14506 County Road 6. On August 18, 1988, a letter was received from
Mr. Schmidt informing me that he had taken down the sign as mentioned in my
letter and apologized for it. In addition, he mentioned that 6 years ago he
was out of a job and started his own accounting business in his home. Since
that time, he has found full -time employment in private industry and has
ceased his accounting business at home, but was negligent in taking down the
sign.
As mentioned before, Mr. Schmidt has taken down the sign and he has stated
that he is not conducting a business from his home. I am considering this
file closed. If you should have any additional questions in regard to this
file, please do not hesitate to contact me.
RECYCLING TASK FORCE
Monday, August 29, 1988
8.00 a.m.
PLEASE NOTE CHANGE OF MEETING LOCATION
Brookview Community Center
8200 Wayzata Boulevard
(off Winnetka Avenue)
Opening Remarks
Comments on Metropolitan Council's
Recycling Policy and the Proposed
Hennepin County Changes
Continued Discussions of Subcommittee
Recommendations
Task Force Action on Subcommittee
Recommendations
(BUTLER] AGENDA3
Mark Andrew
Steve Keefe
Metropolitan Council
Mark Andrew
_Z-- CIt
Minutes of the
RECYCLING TASK FORCE
August 15, 1988
The third meeting of the Recycling Task Force was called to order by Chairman Mark
Andrew.
Carl Michaud reviewed the recommendations submitted by the Recycling Task Force
Subcommittee and opened the floor to comments.
Issues Discussed
A. Recycling Goals
The goal of 16% source separation and 4% waste reduction for the
County was discussed. The Task Force discussed the requirement
that each city recycle 10% of the residential waste stream consisting of
newspapers, glass and metal cans by May 1, 1989. There were discussions
about how to present these goals in more understandable terms.
B. Clarification of City and County Roles
There were no strong objections to the city and county roles as per the
recommendations by the Recycling Task Force Subcommittee. A motion to
accept the subcommittee recommendations was delayed until the Task Force
received input from the Metropolitan Council on how their recycling policies
might affect these recommended changes.
C. Funding Policy Changes
Minneapolis questioned the subcommittee recommendation to eliminate yardwaste
collection as an eligible expense under the existing funding policy.
Summary
A motion to accept the subcommittee recommendations was tabled until the Task
Force hears from the Metropolitan Council. A second motion was passed to invite
Steve Keefe of the Metropolitan Council to address the issues raised by the Task
Force.
Recycling Task Force meeting schedule:
August 29 Brookview Community Center 8:00 a.m.
8200 Wayzata Boulevard
Golden Valley, MN
September Tentative 8:00 a.m.
[BUTLER] MINUTES3
You can get to Brookvi ew by taking Highway 12 or Highway 55 to Winnetka Avenue
North. From Highway 12, take Winnetka north to Western Avenue. Turn left and
got to the end of the road. Turn left into the Brookview parking lot. From
Highway 55, take Winnetka south to Western. Turn right and proceed as above.
MEA:pb
R�
Recycling Task Force Membership 7_,s
COMMISSIONER MARK ANDREW
CHAIRMAN
Thomas Aaker
Mayor,
City of
Crystal
Mary Anderson
Mayor,
City of
Golden Valley
C. Wayne Courtney
Mayor,
City of
Edina
Brian Coyle
Council
Member,
City of Minneapolis
Donald Fraser
Mayor.
City of
Minneapolis
Lyle W. Hanks
Mayor,
City of
St. Louis Park
Don Milbert
Mayor,
City of
Hopkins
Kathy O'Brien
Council
Member,
City of Minneapolis
Gary Peterson
Mayor,
City of
Eden Prairie
Neil Peterson
Council
Member,
City of Bloomington
Clifford M. Roberts
Council
Member,
City of Deephaven
Jerry Sisk
Council
Member,
City of Plymouth
Robert Sundland
Mayor,
City of
St. Anthony
ATTENDANCE
AUGUST 15, 1988
Mark Andrew
County Commissioner
348 -3080
Mary Anderson
Mayor, City of Golden Valley
593 -8004
Marilynn Corcoran
Mayor, City of Dayton /R.C. Brooklyn Park
424 -8000
Wayne Courtney
Mayor, City of Edina
927 -8861
Don Fraser
Mayor, City of Minneapolis
348 -2100
Lyle W. Hanks
Mayor, City of St. Louis Park
925 -4300
Don Milbert
Mayor, City of Hopkins
938 -5545
Kathy O'Brien
Council Member, City of Minneapolis
348 -2202
Gary Peterson
Mayor, City of Eden Prairie
937 -2262
C. M. Roberts
Council Member, City of Deephaven
473 -4591
Bill Barnhart
I G R, City of Minneapolis
348 -6534
Steve Betchwars
City of Wayzata
473 -0234
Billy Binder
Mayor Fraser's Office, Minneapolis
348 -2100
Kathy Bodmer
Recycling Coordinator, Hopkins
939 -1381
Katy Boone
Reuter, Inc.
935 -6921
Jean Buckley
Recycling Coordinator, Robbinsdale
537 -4534
Janet Chandler
Recycling Coordinator, Edina
927 -8861
Alan Duff
City of New Hope
533 -1521
Jeanine Dunn
Recycling Coordinator, New Hope
533 -1521
Brian Heck
Recycling Coordinator, Maple Grove
420 -4000
Julie Jones
Recycling Coordinator, Crystal
537 -8421
Ron Rankin
Recycling Coordinator, Minnetonka
933 -2511
Bob Sharlin
Recycling Coordinator, Bloomington
887 -9636
Sheldon Strom
City of Minneapolis
348 -4669
Michael Trdan
Recycling Coordinator, Minneapolis
348 -8077
Wally Wysopal
Recycling Coordinator, St. Louis Park
924 -2554
Carl Zieman
Recycling Coordinator, Excelsior
474 -3464
Debra Butler
Hennepin County Recycling
348 -8075
Andy Erickson
Commissioner Andrew's Office
348 -5469
Fred Johnson
Hennepin County Public Affairs
348 -3221
Judy Larson
Commissioner Johnson's Office
348 -3088
Janet Leick
Hennepin County, BPS
348 -6445
Carl Michaud
Hennepin County Recycling
348 -3054
Pat Ness
Commissioner Keefe's Office
348 -8913
[BUTLER] RTFM3
City
1988 RESIDENTIAL WASTE STREAM
RESIDENTIAL
WASTE STREAM
Estimated
NCG in the
Residential
Waste Stream
10%
Bloomington
38,882
7,776
3,888
Brooklyn Ctr /Park
37,583
7,516
3,758
Champlin
4,726
946
473
Corcoran
1,983
396
198
Crystal
10,854
2,170
1,085
Dayton
1,868
374
187
Deephaven
1,594
318
159
Eden Prairie
12,888
2,578
1,289
Edina
20,110
4,022
2,011
Excelsior
1,241
248
124
Golden Valley
9,851
1,970
985
Greenwood
287
58
29
Hanover
110
22
11
Hassan /Rogers
1,048
210
105
Hopkins
6,600
1,320
660
Maple Grove
14,360
288
.144
Medina
1,140
228
114
Minneapolis
159,193
31,838
15,919
Minnetonka
19,800
3,960
1,980
Minnetrista
1,386
278
139
Mound
3,798
760
380
New Hope
10,559
2,112
1,056
Osseo
1,340
268
134
Plymouth
20,303
4,060
2,030
Richfield
16,526
3,306
1,653
Robbinsdale
6,324
1,264
632
Rockford
182
36
18
Shorewood
2,137
418
214
Spring Park
665
134
67
St. Anthony
2,189
438
219
St. Bonifacius
432
86
43
St. Louis Park
18,919
378
189
Tonka Bay
735
148
74
Wayzata
1,687
338
169
WHRC(2)
8,031
1,606
803
Woodland
236
48
24
Other(3)
93
18
9
438,520
1 Based on an approximate total of 20% newspapers, cans, glass and aluminum.
2 WHRC - West Hennepin Recycling Commission; includes Greenfield, Independence, Long
3 Lake, Loretto, Maple Plain, Medina, Minnetonka Beach and Orono.
Other includes Ft. Snelling, Chanhassan and estimated waste stream tonnages from U of M.
[BUTLER] RYCTONS3
.I-
-/
PLYMOUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT
MONTHLY REPORT
MONTH
CLASS I
JULY
MURDER
CSC
ROBBERY
ASSAULT
BURGLARY
THEFT
AUTO THEFT
ARSON
0
1
1
29
34
111
15
0
0
1
1 1
19
40
91
14
2
TOTALS 1987 191
1988 168 -12%
CLASS II
FORGERY
COUNTERFEIT
FRAUD
HAR
COMM
STOLEN
PROPERTY
VANDALISM
SEX
OFF
NARC.
OFFENSES
FAM /CHILD
D W.I.
LIC
LAW
DISORDERLY
CONDUCT
OTHE
2
16
17
2
69
1
7
0
26
9
6
48
2
11
307
2
44
11
6
1
28
10
2
82
TOTALS 1987 203
1988 229
CLASS III
12.8%
FATAL
ACCIDENT
PERSONAL
INJURY
PROPERTY
DAMAGE
SNOWMOBILE
ACCIDENT
DROWNING
MEDICAL
EMERGENCY
SUICIDE
SUICIDE
ATTEMPTS
NATURAL
DEATH
ANIMAL
BITES
FIRE
0
16
84
0
0
92
0
1
2
5
28
0
14
50
0
0
82
2
2
1
1 3
1 55
TOTALS 1987 222
1988 209 -8.3%
CLASS IV
TOTALS 1987 1297
1988 1317 1.5%
HAZARDOUS MOLATIONS 1987 473 1988 _50.2 �Il
NONHAZARDOUS VIOLATIONS 1987 487 1988 484 0.60/01
CRIMINAL OFFENSES CLEARED 1987
?80'
1988
35.8%
ASSIST
l"1'
1988
1,923 .2-'
ANIMAL
FALSE
LOCK
OTHER
WARRANT
TRAFFIC
SUSPICION
MISSING
LOST
PUBLIC
DOMESTIC
DETAIL
ALARMS
OUTS
AGENCY
SERVED
DETAIL
INFORMATION
PERSON
FOUND
NUISANCE
MISC
24
170
188
127
40
22
256
128
6
26
178
132
20
134
146
133
37
28
160
163
8
30
149
309
TOTALS 1987 1297
1988 1317 1.5%
HAZARDOUS MOLATIONS 1987 473 1988 _50.2 �Il
NONHAZARDOUS VIOLATIONS 1987 487 1988 484 0.60/01
CRIMINAL OFFENSES CLEARED 1987
?80'
1988
35.8%
TOTAL NUMBER OF INCIDENTS 1987
l"1'
1988
1,923 .2-'
PLYMOUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT
MONTHLY REPORT
MONTH
CLASS I
January - July
MURDER
CSC
ROBBERY
ASSAULT
BURGLARY
THEFT
AUTO THEFT
ARSON
0
13
5
131
180
653
85
13
0
13
4
135
164
595
105
7
TOTALS 1987
1988
CLASS II
1080
1023 -5.2%
FORGERY
COUNTERFEIT
FRAUD
HAR
COMM
STOLEN
PROPERTY
VANDALISM
SEX
OFF,
NARC.
OFFENSES
FAM /CHILD
D.W I
LIO
LAW
DISORDERLY
CONDUCT
OTHEP
35
77
126
12
455
17
75
17
227
55
20
214
23
46
150
13
267
37
101
11
236
49
1 37
366
TOTALS 1987
1988
CLASS III
1330
1336 .5%
FATAL
ACCIDENT
PERSONAL
INJURY
PROPERTY
DAMAGE
SNOWMOBILE
ACCIDENT
DROWNING
MEDICAL
EMERGENCY
SUICIDE
SUICIDE
ATTEMPTS
NATURAL
DEATH
ANIMAL
BITES
FIRE
0
106
489
0
0
470
3
10
10
24
208
3
109
466
1*
0
483
5
11
11
16
220
TOTALS 1987 1320
1988 1325 .4o
CLASS IV
*Fata 1
`
30%
1988
38.2°
ASSIST
11,267
1988
11,174 -
ANIMAL
FALSE
LOCK
OTHER
WARRANT
TRAFFIC
SUSPICION
MISSING
LOST
PUBLIC
DOMESTIC
DETAIL
ALARMS
OUTS
AGENCY
SERVED
DETAIL
INFORMATION
PERSON
FOUND
NUISANCE
MIS"
185
1013
810
908
261
190
1308
831
55
133
879
964
171
1007
768
760
246
189
1290
947
36
146
917
1013
TOTALS 1987 7537
1988 7490 -.6%
HAZARDOUS VIOLATIONS 1987 3334 1988 3272 -2%
NONHAZARDOUS VIOLATIONS 1987 2935 1988 3289 12%
CRIMINAL OFFENSES CLEARED 1987
30%
1988
38.2°
TOTAL NUMBER OF INCIDENTS 1987
11,267
1988
11,174 -
c �N -_ r 1 FE r ,
M,�!,T HLY REF ��.-
1. _
- - 6,
rFE OF REPOTTED INCID' S E 0�
D�.�
NUML)
0001
0401 0801
1201 1601 2001 COCALR5E0
ALA MS
T01AL
PEkMI15
ISSUED
ESTIMATE
LOSS
0400
0800 1200
1600 2000 240 C-
11
SIs3,9C..
,�
_ •1 i
PKIVAIE DWELLINGS 2
-
31
1s
1,00
, 1
30
APARTMENTS 5
o
HOTELS AND MOTELS
3
3
1
2 1
ALL OTHER RESIDENTIAL
2
2
PUBLIC ASSEMBLY
4
I 1
i
1
�
SCHOOLS ANO COLLFGES
HEALTH CARE INSTITUTIO',S
PENAL INSTITUTIONS
_
1
i
STORES AND OFFICES
INDUSTRY, MFG.
I
STORAGE IN STRUCTURES
SPECIAL STRUCTURES
FIRES OUTSIDE OF STRUCTURES 1
FIRES IN HIGHWAY VEHICLES 2
FIRES IN OTHER VEHICLES
1 5 4' � 10
FIRES IN BRUSH, GRASS 1
1
FIRES IN RUBBISH, DUMPSTERS
1
ALL OTHER FIRES
MEDICAL AID RESPONSES
1 1
3 2
*MALICIOUS FALSE ALARMS
1 1
MUTUAL AM OR ASSISTANCE 2
1 1 1
ALL OTHER RESPONSES
TOTALS 15 13 29 26 22 20
INCLUDED IN FALSE ALARMS TOTALS
JULY 1987
CONFIRMED CALLS 26
FALSE ALARMS 53
TOTAL CALLS 79
ESTIMATED LOSS $42,250
i
1
.c
24
1
1
4
3'
69
1
4
1
1
56
I
10
2E
1
1
2
4
3
125
22 1 $183,700
M057r:�Y RE�Jr'
7PE OF REPORTED INCIDENTS EY TIM OF CA`
PERM;TS EST 1M-•7
0001 0401 OEU1 1201 1601 2001 Curt FIRMED FALS'\ I TtTA_ ISSCED LOS
0400 DOUO 1200 1600 2000 2400 CALLS ALA- _
64 $300 000
PKIVAIE DWELLINGS
7 4 14 11 17 11 48 16 j
j - 18 33 23
36 28 1- 1A 161 47 2 000
APARTMENTS
� � 2 4 2 1 13 14 4 _
HOTELS AND MOTELS 1
q 4 1 ,
ALL OTHER RESIDENTIAL 2 2
3
3 3
PUBLIC ASSEMBLY
9,
SCHOOLS AN1), COLLEGES 1 1 -
i I 3, 20C,
HEALTH CARE INSTITUTIONS
PENAL INSTITUTIONS
I
1
I
STORES AND OFFICES
INDUSIRY, MFG.
8
I
6 13
13
i
STORAGE IN STRUCTURES
I
1
i
SPECIAL STRUCTURES
1
2�
I
11
FIRES OUTSIDE OF STRUCTURES
FIRES IN HIGHWAY VEHICLES
4
2 13
13 1
11
10
FIRES IN OTHER VEHICLES
1
1
FIRES IN BRUSH, GRASS
2
1
11
22
23
19
FIRES IN RUBBISH, DUMPSTERS
3�
1
1
ALL OTHER FIRES
1
1 '
1
MEDICAL AID RESPONSES
3
'
3
*MALICIOUS FALSE ALARMS
3
3
1
3
M011AL AIO OR ASSISTANCE
2
1
2
1
ALL OTHER RESPONSES 4
1 3
I
6
4
TOTALS 62
47 � 116
114
129
93
—INCLUDED IN FALSE ALARMS TOTALS
.TAxnARV - JULY 1987
ZUYFIRMED CALLS 249
FALSE ALARMS 27S
TOTAL CALLS 524
ESTIMA7ED LOSS $415,620
_5
1
3
I 1
2
_1
&I
6
22
.281
t�
i
1
3!,
1
2
'81
1 5
1 88
1 I 12
4 2
281 I 56
3 100,100
14 80"
i
32 000
I
80,450
4,500
5,100
5 I $542,450
i T ►Yli �
1_r
The Hennepin County collection project gives citizens an opportunity to safely dispose of their
unusable household hazardous wastes, which contain many of the same chemicals as industrial
hazardous wastes.
Collection staff will determine whether the materials can be recycled, incinerated or disposed of at
federally approved hazardous waste facilities.
THE HENNEPIN COUNTY COLLECTION DAY IS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10,
FROM 8 A.M. TO 4 P.M.
THE COLLECTION SITES:
• BLOOMINGTON, 9750 James Ave..S.
® CRYSTAL, 6125 41st Ave. N.
• MINNEAPOLIS, 1809 Washington St. N.E.
® MINNEAPOLIS, 6036 Harriet Ave. S.
0 AfNNETONKA, 11522 Minnetonka Boulevard
�-
For more information about collection day and household hazardous wastes, call the
Hennepin County Department of Environment and Energy's hazardous waste unit at
348 -8%4, or call your City Hall.
A cooperative effort of the Hennepin County Board, the cities of Hennepin County, and Citizens for a
Better Environment.
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- Y15�1-
City Council
City of Plymouth
8/22/88
� L
This is to request the City to consider an exception to the
ordinance that forbids street parking in Plymouth during the
night hours.
The Villages development has a deed restriction on parking in
the courts. This prevents cluttering up the courts with
visitors cars. Very often these residents, who have raised
their families, have those families come to see them for
several days, or a family member will be home with them for a
time.
I have been asked by The Villages Homeowners Association to
request the right for them to use the cul de sac for this
sort of night parking. I am aware of the snowplowing
"housekeeping" but that might be solved with center- of -the-
circle parking.
Please give this your best consideration. This is a fine
development and this input by the City to solve this sort of
peripheral problem can resolve a nuisance problem for these
people.
I am aware that ordinances like this are put in place for
many good reasons. If the questions are not crystal clear
for a decision to act, might this be done on a trial
Roger A: Fazendin'
The Villages Homeowners Ass'n
18705 11th Ave N.
Plymouth 55447
r,
CITY OF
PLYNou i
August 26, 1988
Mr. Roger A. Fazendin
THE VILLAGES HOA
18705 - 11th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55447
SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR WAIVER OF 2 A.M. to 5 A.M. PARKING BAN
Dear Mr. Fazendin:
I have received your August 22 letter which requests, on behalf of The
Villages Homeowners Association, an exception to the City's 2 a.m. to 5
a.m. parking ban. Your letter states that deed restrictions in The
Village's development minimizes cluttering The Village's courts with
visitors' cars by placing limitations on each family. Your proposal would
in effect, shift those cars from the courts to public streets.
The 2 a.m. to 5 a.m. ban year- around is intended to eliminate overnight
parking to enhance safe street circulation, both for motorists, as well as
public safety vehicles. We have found that the ban has had the unexpected
benefit of improving community security by making suspicious vehicles that
much more obvious to our public safety officers.
There is no provision in the ordinance which allows for a waiver. I am sure
you appreciate that if a waiver were granted to one party, it would soon
spread to other locations and the ordinance would become ineffective. For
this reason, the staff would not recommend that the Council consider a
waiver to the ordinance as requested in your August 22 letter.
If you would like to further discuss this matter, I would be glad to do so
with you or other omeowners association members.
ncere
Frank 801Y--les
Assistant City Manager
FB:kec
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
CITYO�
August 24, 1988 PLYMOUTH
Mr. Jim Brandl
Independent School District 284
Community Education Department
210 Highway 101
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Mr. Brandl:
On August 22, 1988, the Plymouth City Council appointed Lynes Getten to fill
the vacancy on the Independent School District 284 Community Education
Advisory Council. Mr. Getten can be reached at 16800 9th Avenue North,
Plymouth, MN 55447 (phone 473 - 6838).
I have also notified Mr. Getten of his appointment by copy of this letter. If
you have any questions, please contact me.
Sincerely,
Laurie Rauenhorst
City Clerk
cc: Lynes Getten
3400 PLYMIOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
August 24, 1988
Mr. Lynes Getten
16800 9th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Mr. Getten:
Thank you for submission of your application for appointment to a Commission
or Committee. On August 22, 1988, the City Council appointed you as a
Plymouth representative to the Independent School District 284 Community
Education Advisory Council. Enclosed is a copy of the letter to Mr. dim
Brandl indicating your appointment.
Mr. Brandl will contact you directly.
contact me.
Sincerely,
Laurie Rauenhorst
City Clerk
En c.
Should you have any questions, please
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
_U
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Independent School District 284 DAVID R. LANDSWERK, Ph.
Superintendent of Schools
DISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES 210 NORTH STATE HIGHWAY'101 P.O. BOX 660 WAYZATA, MN 55391 -9990 (612) 476 -3'
August 22, 1988
Jerry Sisk, Deputy Mayor
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Jerry:
The Groundbreaking for the PLYMOUTH CREEK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL was an
exciting and important occasion for the WAYZATA PUBLIC SCHOOLS. We
thank you for taking the time to participate in the ceremony. Thought
you might like the enclosed picture as a rememberance.
Please extend our appreciation to the other Plymouth City Council -
members and City Manager Jim Willis for helping us celebrate.
Again, Jerry, thank you for helping us "break ground."
Sincerely,
0&10b�
David R. Landswerk
Superintendent of Schools
DRL:LMB
2:25/4
Enc1 osufe
cc: �,dim Willis, Plymouth City Manager
1 +.+Y
CITY OF
PLYMOUT-
August 23, 1988
Mr. Forrest Harstad
Harstad Companies
1900 Silver Lake Road
New Brighton, MN 55112
SUBJECT: UNLAWFUL FILL LOCATED ON LOT 4, BLOCK 6, KINGSVIEW HEIGHTS SECOND
ADDITION
Dear Forrest:
On Friday, August 19, 1988 our office confirmed the placement of unauthorized fill
material located on the above referenced property. The fill consists of broken
concrete, bituminous and washout from concrete trucks.
It is quite possible that the material I have referenced was dumped on your site
without your authorization. However, under our City Code, each property owner is
responsible for maintaining their own property. Our City Code and Chapter 70 of the
Uniform Building Code regulates permit issuance and types of permitted fill.
Therefore, as we have not issued a fill permit for the placement of material located
on this property, we will require that the material referenced above be removed
prior to August 29, 1988.
Thank you, in advance, for your cooperation and assistance.
Sincerely,
C"-
Joe Ryan
Building Official
cc: File
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA, 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
August 24, 1988
Ms. Carol Ann Zalusky
2325 Kirkwood Lane North
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Ms. Zalusky:
CITY Or
PLYMOUP+
T S-.
We have completed the matter you brought to the City Council's attention at the dune
13, 1988 Town Meeting. You indicated at that time that there was a sight obstruction
problem at the intersection of Campus Drive and Northwest Boulevard in the Northwest
Business Campus area.
The directional sign for Scanticon Hotel was removed, not because it caused an inter-
section sight obstruction, but it was an illegal sign which had not been installed
properly. Of the hedges mentioned in your comments, the intersection sight obstruction
was caused by the center median on Northwest Boulevard, north of the intersection of
Campus Drive. These hedges were first trimmed, but upon further inspection, the City
concluded that in order to remove the obstruction, the hedges must be removed
completely.
I inspected the site this morning; Prudential Development Group did remove the hedges
from the center median. An intersection sight obstruction no longer exists at this
location.
The City is closing this file, if you have further questions, please contact me at
559 -2800.
Sincerely,
Myra Gibson
Development Services Technician
MG /gw
File 80062
6CC :
3+00 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUI H. MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONF (612) 559 -2800
.k#
s
June 28, 1988
Ms. Carol Ann Zalusky
2325 Kirkwood Lane
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Ms. Zalusky:
CITY Crl-
PLYMOUR+
We have investigated the matter you brought to the City Council's attention at the June
13, 1988 Town Meeting. You indicated there were sight distance problems at the
intersection of Campus Drive and Northwest Boulevard.
We have been able to identify that a sign and some of the landscape were installed in
addition to the signs and landscaping approved for this development. This means that
additional plantings, for example, were put in after the City approved the basic
landscape plan, and thus, there was not an opportunity to review the materials before
they were installed.
The City's Policy on sight obstructions at intersections generally addresses
traditional intersections and not those where there are medians such as in the
Northwest Business Campus. The intent of the Policy, nevertheless, is the same: To
ensure proper visibility at all intersections regardless of their design.
The next step for us is to follow up on our contacts with the representatives of the
Northwest Business Campus and identify dates by which the problems will be resolved.
There has been a positive response from Prudential about the need to correct the
problem and, as you may know, a representative of Prudential was at the Town Meeting.
I will see that you are kept informed as to the additional actions taken on this
matter. Thank you for your comments and for the information you provided regarding
this important concern.
Sincerely,
Blair Tremere, Director
Community Development
BT /gw
cc: City Clerk
File
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CITY OF PLYMOUTH
PUBLIC SERVICE COUNTERS CUSTOMER COMMENT CARD
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We value your opinion about the service you receive at the Public Service
Counters! Please complete this card and drop it in the Customer Comment Box
at the main receptionist's counter.
Date of visit /Z Time
1. With which department(s) did you deal?
2. Name of City Employee (if you recall)
3. Did you have an appointment for a meeting? Yes No �-
4. Was service prompt?
S. %as service courteous?
Yes No
Ye s_ No
6. Were your questions answered or business concluded? Yes -No
7. If no, what information do you still require?_�� —rJ
6. How could we serve you better?
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Your name would be appreciated; however, if you should prefer to remain
anonymous, we still value your observations.
Name
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V
August 24, 1988
CITY OF
PLYMOUTR
Gary Reynolds
5305 Dunkirk Lane No.
Plymouth, MN 55446
Dear Mr. Reynolds:
On Saturday, August 27, 1988, the Plymouth Gun Club will alter its shooting
hours to accommodate the annual Club Shoot. Shooting hours will be from
9 :00 a.m. to sundown. This letter is intended to comply with the mutual
agreement reached between the Plymouth Gun Club and neighboring residents to
provide advance notification of any unscheduled shoots which may occur
during the year.
If you have any questions, please contact me.
Assistant City Manager
FB: f m
cc: Mayor & C_ty Council
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
August 22, 1988
Dear Mr. Boyles:
We wish to notify you as per our agreement of November 5, 1986,
that on Saturday, August 27, 1988, the Plymouth Gun Club will
alter its shooting hours to accomodate the annual Club Shoot.
Shooting hours will be from 9:00 a.m. to sundown.
Thank you.
Si ely,
Glenn E. Jol
Secretary Plymouth Gun Club
Mr. virgil Schneider
Mayor, City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Mr. Schneider:
I am still so angry about the treatment 1 received in regard to a particular Stop
sign in Plymouth, I am compelled to write this letter. The sign is on Zachary where
49th Street "tees in" from the East. This is not a cross street and is little used.
(As an interesting side - light, I understand this sign has been under fire for some
time to be removed). I drive past this sign every day, coming and going to work,
plus many times a week for shopping, church, etc, as I live just off 53rd & Zachary.
On 2/23/88, on my way home from work, I was given a traffic ticket for "stopping
beyond the sign." The officer admitted that I did come to a full stop, and his
exact words were, "You stopped ten feet beyond the sign." I drive a Honda Civic 1300,
which is 12 feet long, one of the smallest cars on the road, and part of my car was
behind the sign that day, and believe me, it was more than the back two feet.
I have watched vehicles stopping for that sign ever since, and I think it's safe to
say that 4 out of 5 stop like I did, or worse, or roll through, and what I am point-
ing out is that because of the nature of the road placement, it is certainly not
creating a problem to do this, and handing out tickets for a car partially in front
of that sign is ridiculous. What prompted me to finally write this letter is that
this morning on my way to work, I was following a white panel truck'that had the
words "Community Service Officer" written on the side, and as we approached the
above mentioned sign, he /she stopped so far in front of the sign that when we
simultaneously stopped, the front end of my car was exactly opposite the sign, and
the Officer was completely in front of the sign (this was at 8:45 am). How many
feet long is that truck? The license plate said POLICE.
Now - I went to the City Court at Ridgedale a few days after receiving the above
mentioned citation to plead innocent. The girl gave me a court date of 3/17/88,
and said to appear at 9 am, which I did. I sat through the whole proceeding, and
after 11 am, the clerk said, "Is there anyone here whose name was not called ", so
I obediently raise my hand, was called forward, and it took the judge about 8
seconds to tell me go back to the counter where I had been month before to set
a court date. So when I come back to court on 4/14/88, the Plymouth Prosecutor
invites me to a room where he told me that for $50 I can get the ticket erased from
my record, so I went that route. I have been driving in Minnesota since 1945 and
that was the first citation I had received for any reason. I am a widow on a limited
income, putting two kids through college, I had to miss work the first day I sat in
court for two hours because some city employee failed to telllme I only had to see
the City Prosecutor to get a future court date set.
This incident was an absolute miscarriage of justice, and I think I should have
my $50 back and that officer could better spend his time stopping speeders on
some roads in Plymouth where there are really dangerous situations existing.
Yours truly,
cc
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Marjori . Lyman
I would appreciate hearing from you.
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August 26, 1988
Marjorie M. Lyman
5278 Ximinies Lane North
Plymouth, MN 55442
Y
CITY Or
PLYMOUTR
SUBJECT: YOUR AUGUST 3, 1988 LETTER
Dear Marjorie:
I can identify with the anger which you describe in your August 3 letter. I
have had a similar experience in the past.
Your primary concern was the fact that you were required to be present at
court on two separate occasions involving two hours of your time on each
occasion. You first visited the Municipal Court a few days after receiving
the citation. You received a court date of March 17, 1988 at 9 a.m. You
sat through the proceeding that morning for some two hours, as which point
the clerk asked if there was anyone present whose name had not been called.
Identifying yourself, you were told by the judge to set another date. On
the new date, April 14, you appeared in court and the Plymouth prosecutor
invited you in a room to indicate that for $50 the ticket would be erased
from your record.
Aside from the $50 fee, you indicated that the time you missed from work on
two separate days for two hours caused loss of income needed to help send
your children through college.
I agree, the court system should be able to establish a more streamlined
process of dealing with such cases so that a person can either schedule a
court date via telephone and attend only one, rather than two separate trial
sessions.
By copy of this letter I am conveying your letter and concerns to Chief
Judge Peter J. Lindberg. I am hoping that Judge Lindberg will provide you
with the court's perspective on this matter. It was a pleasure to speak
with you over the phone and thank you for sharing your concerns with me.
Sincerely,
Virgil Schneider
Mayor
VS:kec
cc: Chief Judge Peter J. Lindberg
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
MEMO
DATE: August 24, 1988
TO: Assistant City Manager Frank Boyles
FROM: `
Community Development Director Blair Tremere
SUBJECT REVISED MEMORANDUM ON CHURCHES, SYNAGOGUES, AND RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS
Please distribute the attached memo to the City Council with the next information
distribution. It is the same memo the Council received at the August 22, 1988 meeting,
except that certain typographical errors have been corrected and, as the Council
correctly noted, the Table prepared by Myra Wicklacz has been corrected as to the size
of churches in Plymouth.
This matter has been referred to the Planning Commission.
Attachment
August 19, 1988 Memorandum
CITY Or PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559 -2800
MEMO
DATE: August 19, 1988 for City Council Meeting August 22, 1988
TO: City Manager James Willis _SQSO-�
FROM: Community Development Director Blair Tremere
SUBJECT CHURCHES, SYNAGOGUES, AND RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS
ACTION REQUESTED: City Council consideration of this subject with direction as to
further research and /or preparation of draft Ordinance amend-
ments for consideration by the Planninq Commission.
BACKGROUND:
This is in response to your request and the Council direction for research and thoughts
on whether or not we should distinguish between the small church and the large church,
especially with respect to what is allowed in the Residential Zoning Districts.
I have researched our Comprehensive Plan and our Zoning Ordinance on this matter and,
Development Services Technician Myra Wicklacz has researched other sources on the
subject. Much of the impetus has come from neighbors of existing large churches who
are concerned about possible expansion.
ISSUES AND ANALYSIS:
1. Comprehensive Plan.
Churches are addressed as a feature of both walking and driving neighborhoods,
particularly in the context of residential amenities. Interestingly however,
churches are not addressed as a specific land use -type in any of the Living Area
categories. I don't view that as an omission, but I find it interesting since
churches are mentioned as specific possible land uses in three of the commercial
categories. The CL (limited business) Area recognizes religious and philanthropic
institutions. The CN (neighborhood shopping center) category recognizes religious
and philanthropic institutions as conditional uses. The CC (community center)
category recognizes churches as either a conditional use or a permitted use.
The lack of a specific reference to churches in the Living Areas is not unusual in
that, churches have been traditionally assumed to be a normal neighborhood resi-
dential amenity. The specific reference to them in the commercial district is
evidence of that, in that the planning doctrine was to assure that these institu-
tions could be found in Districts other than residential. The reference to
Page t� o
Memorandum to City Manager, City Council Meeting August 22, 1955
Churches
August 19, 1985
philanthropic institutions is a generic one, i.e., it is a typical planning term
used to create an umbrella over charitable institutions which are in the business
of dispensing and /or receiving aid from funds set aside for humanitarian
purposes. They are often equated with religious institutions as a land use.
2. Zoning Ordinance
"Churches or other religious or philanthropic institutions" are allowed in all of
the residential zoning districts, R -1A through R -4, but are not allowed in the FRI)
District.
The City Council deleted churches (as well as schools) from the FRD District, a
number of years ago, because they were found to be representative of the urbaniza-
tion which was not deemed to be appropriate for the FRD District. Later, however,
the City Council adopted an amendment to the Ordinance which would allow a certain
type and size of church in the FRD District. Provision was made for "rural com-
munity churches" which require a Conditional Use Permit; which have a maximum
sanctuary seating capacity of 275 seats; and, which must be located on property
classified by the Comprehensive Land Use Guide Plan as LA -1 through 4, CL, CN, or
CC. Such churches may not have accessory commercial activities such as day care
centers, nursery schools, or primary or secondary schools, although they may have
activities such as religious instruction and guidance.
The Zoning Ordinance also allows "religious or philanthropic institutions" as
conditional uses in the B -1 (office limited) and B -2 (retail) Zoning Districts.
They are not allowed at all in the B -3 (service business) District. Churches, per
se, are not addressed, but typically would be categorized under their most typical
land use type, i.e., if not as a church, as an office building or other place of
assembly.
The Zoning Ordinance therefore tends to equate churches, religious institutions,
and philanthropic institutions regardless of size or scope.
3. My experience and observations, to date, suggest that there are several issues
which probably should be addressed. First, do we want to distinguish between
"large" churches and "smaller" churches, and if so, on what basis or bases do we
do that? The key to this question is how churches are defined and I suspect that
once we define them, we would not be so concerned with the actual magnitude of a
bona fide church.
4. The study by the consultant regarding residential care facilities also included
observations about the need to address "institutions" and, at my direction, it
included churches. The study suggests that perhaps an institutional Land Use
Guide Plan Classification and Zoning District could be established to include
churches. This is not a particularly simple solution, however, since the City
would need to identify the characteristics of those areas that could be guided and
zoned. However, if the concern is with magnitude, it is conceivable that a clas-
sification such as we now have for restaurants, i.e., Class I and Class II, could
be created. Class I restaurants could be allowed in a certain area, whereas Class
II would be confined to other areas.
Page three
Memorandum to City Manager, City Council Meeting August 22, 19SS
Churches
August 19, 1985
Distinguishing types of churches, however, is a basic problem in that it is not
clear what the density measurement is: The number of seats? The number of park-
ing spaces? The size of the site? Or, the amount of surface area covered by
building and pavement?
Myra Wicklacz included in her research, a survey of current Plymouth churches, and
her findings are attached. The survey includes the number of seats, as well as
the number of services, and public services provided.
The more relevant issue may be the need to distinguish between churches, regard-
less of size, and other institutions, be they "religious" or "philanthropic."
We reviewed concept plans some time ago for a religious organization who has
represented an actual campus consisting of several functions ranging from a
church, to an elderly housing cluster, to a facility for educational purposes.
The size of the site is almost 40 acres, and, by their own definition, this
religious organization is more than a "neighborhood church." Their scope is
regional, as the intensity is much different than the traditional suburban
neighborhood church.
5. The land uses which do not involve churches, or which involve churches only inci-
dentally but which are primarily institutional in character with a clear scope of
influence directed beyond the local community, should perhaps be classified as
something else.
The religious institution northeast of Medicine Lake is in a single family resi-
dential area, and it is my understanding that this institution has been located
there for many years. I think it is not obtrusive, because of its physical
location and apparent low activity level.
Large churches which are either built initially as large structures, or which
expand to a large size over the years, are often viewed as having a higher impact
because of their proximity within a residential neighborhood. They are more
visible, and in our society, large churches require large parking areas.
My experience in Plymouth has led me to believe that the level of complaints about
churches is related to the size of the parking lot, the amount of screening around
the parking lot, the size of the church building, and the level of activity,
especially at times other than on Sunday.
Other factors which have been introduced into churches, and which our Ordinance
recognizes as conditional uses, are day care centers and Montessori schools. Such
activities actually are efficient uses of the existing physical plants which
typically stand idle during the week. On the other hand, they generate traffic
and parking activities which otherwise would not occur, and therefore, can be
viewed as "disruptive" to the adjacent residential neighborhoods. It is not
coincidental that zoning ordinances, such as Plymouth's, often equate churches
with cemetaries.
Page four
Memorandum to City Manaqer, City Council Meeting August 22, 1985
Churches
August 19, 1958
6. There is another factor that should be discussed and often is not. The issue is
the tax exempt status of bona fide religious institutions. I suggest that you
have the City Assessor develop a memorandum on that subject. The scope of the
memo would be exactly what the State law exempts. The relevance of this is some-
what ironic. If there is a concern about the tax exempt status of bona fide
religious land uses, then it probably makes more economic sense to have them
occupy residential land, rather than allowing them in non - residential districts
which typically carry a higher per -acre land value. This concern was discussed to
some degree when the Episcopal church at Schmidt Lake Road and Nathan Lane was
considered. That site is zoned B -1.
7. Myra's research confirmed that most cities handle churches and religious institu-
tions in a manner very similar to ours. Some communities have specified that
churches, regardless of size, must be located on arterial or collector streets.
This would be one effective way of assuring that churches were at least on the
perimeter and not in the middle of a residential neighborhood.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS:
Serious consideration of amending the Zoning Ordinance and /or Comprehensive Plan to
distinguish between churches and other religious institutions should be preceded by
focusing on issues.
A. Are we concerned about the size of bona fide churches in the sense of physical
structures and site?
B. Are we prepared to define one type of church over another?
C. Should a distinction be drawn between churches and religious institutions?
D. Should religious institutions perhaps be reserved for higher density /intensity
zoning districts and not allowed at all in lower density residential
neighborhoods?
Bona fide churches are typically considered as necessary amenities to a community and
compatible with residential neighborhoods. If zoning standards are effective relative
to screening and transition, the magnitude of local churches is not an issue even if
that church grows to be the size of, say, the Wayzata Evangelical Church on Highway 101
or the church in New Hope at State Highway 169 and County Road 9.
Clearer and clear definitions of all the various terms used to describe churches and
religious institutions are desirable; my examination of other zoning ordinances sug-
gests that this would probably be a pioneer effort on our part. Everyone seems to know
what a church is and should be, and every one probably thinks they know what a
philanthropic and religious institution is.
Attachment
~
n
[HJ�L���
Churches.
Ii seats
:k
service�
Pub |i C Set. vice�
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Ascension Evanpe Luth,
lO0
2
Sun. }
Wed
ecial yu:I|` urour�
Apostolic Lutheran
300
3
Sun
Special gruuPs
Christ Memorial Luth
300
2
Sun
Tender Le--rninc. C±r
Church of the Epiphany
500
2
Sun
Morning Star Nursery
Ch.J,C. Latter-Day Saints
---
-----
Glory of Christ Lutheran
225
l
Sun
Greenwood Baptist
120
2
Sun, 1
Wed
Medicine L4, Lutheran
---
2
Sun
Specie) Groups
Messiah United Methodist
450
}
Sun
Special groups
Mols. Laestcadian Congreg,
---
-----
Mount Olivet Lutheran
425
2
Sun
Montessori School
Rsrkers Lake Baptist
400
3
Sun, l
Wed
Special grouos
Peace Lutheran
23D
2
�on
Pi}arim United Mpthodict
3 25
2
Sun
Plymouth Bible Chanel
25 h
�
�u:, }
Tue.
Awanna. Groun
Plymouth Covenant
---
}
Sun
St. Joseph's of Med. Ll�,
200
2
Sun
St, Barnabos Lutheran
150
l
Sun
6t. Mary's Catholic-
57�,
l
6at,l
Sun,
Nursery school 8
]
Tuos
Day Ccire
5t. Phi \ico's Lutheran
4 100
4
Wkeno
Day Care
Vision of Glory Lutheran
450
>
6un
Wavzata Evangel. Free
1,000
3
Sun
5onshine Place
Word of Life
25O
2
Sun, l
Wed
WP\CHURCHE6
Revised 8/23/88