HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 02-22-1990CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
February 22, 1990
RECYCLING CASH DRAWING
Feb 21/22: NO WINNER
NEXT WEEK: $500
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS.....
1. COUNCIL STUDY & EXECUTIVE SESSIONS -- Saturday, February 24,
9:30 a.m. - Noon, City Council conference room.
TOPICS: (1) Executive Session with City Attorney to
discuss pending and threatened litigation;
(2) Background and discussion on the uses of
Tax Increment Financing (TIF);
(3) Discuss policy on the revision of stop
sign requests, the "deer problem", and
police "lock -out" policy.
2. COUNCIL STUDY SESSION -- Monday, February 26, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. City
Council Chambers.
Topics: Senior citizen housing, and informal meeting
with State senators and representatives
3. PLYMOUTH FORUM -- Monday, February 26, 6:30 p.m. Plymouth Forum
In City Council conference room.
4. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING -- Monday, February 26, 7:00 p.m. Regular
City Council meeting in City Council Chambers.
5. PRECINCT CAUCUSES -- Tuesday, February 27, 7:30 p.m. Attached is a
listing of Plymouth caucus locations for both the Democratic -Farmer
Labor Party and the Independent-Republical Party. Anyone who is now
a qualified voter or will be qualified to vote on November 6, 1990,
and who is a resident of the precinct in which the caucus is held
may participate. No previous party affiliation is required. (M-5)
6. LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST MEETING -- Saturday, February 24. Northwest
suburban officials will meet with local legislators at 8:00 a.m. at
the Crystal CiHall. A copy of the meeting notice and agenda is
attached. (M-4
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
February 22, 1990
Page 2
7. STUDY MEETING -- Monday, March 5, 4:30 p.m., study meeting with
Lloyd Bergquist, BWBR Architects, regarding the proposed Plymouth
community center.
8. PLANNING COMMISSION -- Wednesday, February 28, 7:30 p.m. Regular
Planning Commission meeting in City Council Chambers. Agenda
attached. (M-8)
9. METROPOLITAN WASTE CONTROL COMMISSION -- The Metropolitan Waste
Control Commission has scheduled a series of breakfast meetings for
local municipalities to solicit input prior to establishing their
1991 budget. For Plymouth, the meeting will be held at the Sheraton
Northwest on March 12. A copy of the meeting notice is attached.
(M-9)
10. COMMUNITY CENTER TOURS - At the request of Mayor Bergman, Eric Blank
has scheduled a tour for Saturday, March 3 at 9 a.m. for interested
Councilmembers to visit four community centers in the metropolitan
area. The group will meet here at the Plymouth City Center and
depart promptly at 9:00. The tour is expected to last until about
1:30 p.m. The facilities to be visited are as follows:
Apple Valley
Edinborough Park - Edina
Eden Prairie Community Center
Brooklyn Park Community Center
Please contact Eric by March 26 to let him know if you will be able
to attend this tour.
11 CALENDARS -- Meeting calendars for February and March are attached.
M-11
FOR YOUR INFORMATION....
1. PRIME DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION - ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS FOR
PROSECT IDENTIFICATION SIGNAGE IN COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICTS -- The
City Council at its meeting of November 20, 1989, tabled a request
by Prime Development Corporation to amend the Zoning Ordinance with
respect to project identification signs with direction that the
Prime West proposal be considered by the Council no later than
February 2.6, 1990. Attached is a staff report from Chuck Dillerud
on this subject recommending this matter again be deferred by the
Council. (I-1)
2. CITY NEWSLETTER UPDATE -- The first issue of the city newsletter is
scheduled to come out in early April. Attached is a memo from
Communications Coordinator Helen LaFave to the employee newsletter
committee. It outlines five regular newsletter features as well as
the articles planned for the April issue. As dircted by the Council
at the December communications study session, the newsletter will be
limited to city -related information due to limited space.
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
February 22, 1990
Page 3
A second memo from Helen to Frank Boyles, discusses the new
newsletter format and plans for publishing. (I- )
3. RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORMS -- Staff responses to resident feedback
forms are attached. I-3)
4. POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT -- The Police Department's 1989 Annual
Report is attached.
5. PERSONNEL COORDINATOR RECRUITMENT & SELECTION -- From approximately
60 applications received, nine candidates were selected to receive a
screening interview. The interviews were completed on February 15,
16 and 20. From those interviews four finalists were selected to
receive a battery of exercises including interview, public
presentation, analysis of union proposal, and supervisory
counseling. I expect that we will narrow the finalists to one or
two within the next week. Final selection of a candidate should
occur no later than Friday, March 9.
6. WASTE TRANSFER STATION -- A status report on Hennepin County's
application for a Waste Transfer Station is attached. (I-6)
7. TRAMMELL CROW/DOWNTOWN PLYMOUTH - I spoke with Bill Baker of
Trammell Crow Tuesday morning about the status of their discussions
with various land owners in the downtown Plymouth area. Mr. Baker
informs me that as of February 19 they had agreed to terms with Mr.
Streeter with respect to the inclusion of his property in the
proposed development. Mr. Cavanaugh has previously indicated his
willingness to sell part of his land after Trammell Crow had reached
an agreement with Mr. Streeter. Mr. Cavanaugh plans to keep a part
of his property for his own development south of a proposed frontage
road to Vicksburg Lane. The liquor store building would be
demolished and rebuilt within the development area. The Supervalu
project is included within the development and in fact, Supervalu is
"putting pressure" on Trammell Crow to have the project moved
forward. Mr. Baker indicates that they have just approved the City
undertaking a traffic study for the project, primarily for the
determination of the feasibility of connecting an access to
Vicksburg Lane and having a median cut south of 36th Avenue.
Strgar-Roscoe-Fausch is to undertake that project. He projects that
they will have an application to the City staff by the first of
April and anticipate that they will be.able to go before the
Planning Commission in May and the City Council by June. The scope
of the project will require an Indirect Source Permit (ISP) and it
Is expected that would not be completed until July.
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORAN"
February 22, 1990
Page 4
8. LOCAL GOVERNMENT LOBBYING - Attached is an executive summary from a t
report prepared by the Legislative Auditor dealing with this topic.
Also attached is a copy of the newspaper article dealing with the
same topic which appeared in Wednesday's Star Tribune. The report
is itself not completely accurate in that it does not reflect all
the cities which contribute to respective lobbying organizations,
e.g., Plymouth and the Municipal Legislative Commission. ' Our
contribution in 1989 was $12,000. The report does highlight the
fact that lobbying and lobby relating expenditures by local
governments has been increasing. (I-8)
9. CORRESPONDENCE:
a. Memorandum to Councilmembers from Mayor Bergman regarding the
appointment for City Attorney. (I -9a)
b. King Videocable Company question/answer sheet on the MSC
(Minnesota Sports Channel). (I -9b)
c. Notification to Star Tribune on Plymouth public meetings. (I-90
d. Letter of appreciation from a Plymouth Section 8 renter. (I -9d)
e. Letter to Dolly Reveling, West Medicine Lake Community Club,
from Eric Blank, on the City's use of Community Club ballfields
from May 14 - July 27. (I -9e)
f. Memorandum from Joe Ryan, Building Official, responding to
Councilmember Zitur inquiry into a landfill problem at 28th and
Evergreen Lane. (I -9f)
James G. Willis
City Manager
JGW:jm
attachment
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: February 16, 1990
TO: Senators Ramstad and McGowan, Representatives Abrams, Heap, and Limmer
FROM: James G. Willis, City Manager
SUBJECT INFORMAL MEETING WITH PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL
I have previously contacted you directly, or left word with your office that
the City Council would like the opportunity of meeting with you informally
Monday, February 26 at 6 p.m. at the Plymouth City Center. The Council will
be holding a study session earlier in the afternoon which will be concluded
by 6 p.m.
The items we would like to hear from you about, and/or discuss with you will
include the following:
I. Wetland Protection/Preservation - Marcus Marsh bill
2. Tax Increment Financing
3. Projected State Deficit and Means by Which it Might be Made up
4. Property Taxes - Flat Rate for Residential Homesteaded Property
5. Comparable Worth (S.F. 488 A18)
6. Land Use Enabling Act (HF 1654/SF 1510)
Now that's a group of items which are certainly not controversial!
Seriously, we would like to briefly discuss them with you and share views
and perceptions on the issues and hear from you with respect to what you
think the Legislature might do with these topics during this session.
We look forward to meeting with you on the 26th.
JW:kec
cc: Mayor & City Council
T
t
if
RUN DATE: 02/14/90 14E4WL,liN .OUNTY VOTER REGISTRATION SYSTEM REPORT NO. VI526Y[
PRECINCT CAUCUS LOCATIONS FOR 1990 PAGE NO. 31
MUNIC/MARD/PCT DEMOCRATIC FARMER LABOR LOCATIONS INDEPENDENT -REPUBLICAN LOCATIONS
PLYMOUTH
PRECINCT 1
+PLYMOUTH CITY HALL
+WAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
03400 PLYMOUTH BLVD
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
PLYMOUTH MJ 55447
PLYMOUTH MN 55447
PRECINCT 2
+NAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
+NAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
PLYMOUTH MN 55447
PLYMOUTH MI 55447
PRECINCT 3
+PLYMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
+HAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
10011 36TH AVE N
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
PLYMOUTH MI 55441
PLYMOUTH MN 55447
PRECINCT 4
*PLYMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
+NAYZATA SENIOR HIGF SCHOOL
10011 36TH AVE N
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
PLYMOUTH MN 55441
PLYMOUTH M1 55447
PRECINCT 5
+PLYMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
+NAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
10011 36TH AVE N
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
PLYMOUTH MN 55441
PLYMOUTH MN 55447
PRECINCT 6
*PLYMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
+WAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
10011 36TH AVE N
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
PLYMOUTH HN 55441
PLYMOUTH M1 55447
PRECINCT 7
+PLYMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
+MAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
10011 36TH AVE N
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
PLYMOUTH MI 55441
PLYMOUTH MJ 55447
PRECINCT 8
+PLYMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
+MAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
10011 36TH AVE N
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
PLYMOUTH MN 55441
PLYMOUTH MN 55447
PRECINCT 9
+PLYMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
+ARMSTRONG SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
10011 36TH AVE N
10635 36TH AVE N
PLYMOUTH M1 55441
PLYMOUTH MN 55441
PRECINCT 10
+PLYMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
+ARMSTRONG SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
10011 36TH AVE N
10635 36TH AVE N
PLYMOUTH MN 55441
PLYMOUTH M1 55441
PRECINCT 11
+PLYMOUTH JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL
+NAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
10011 36TH AVE N
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
PLYMOUTH MN 55441
PLYMOUTH HN 55447
PRECINCT 12
+PLYMOUTH JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL
+HAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
10011 36TH AVE N
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
PLYMOUTH MI 55441
PLYMOUTH MN 55447
+ARMSTRONG SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
PRECINCT 13
+PLYMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
10635 36TH AVE N
10011 36TH AVE N
PLYMOUTH MI 55441
PLYMOUTH MN 55441
+ARMSTRONG SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
PRECINCT 14
+PLYMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
10635 36TH AVE N
10011 36TH AVE N
PLYMOUTH r�rr�41
PLYMOUTH rtd 55441
+NAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL00305
PRECINCT 15
+PLYMOUTH JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL
VICKSBURG LA N
10011 36TH AVE N
PLYMOUTH HN 55447
PLYMOUTH MN 55441
+KAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
PRECINCT 16
+PLYMOUTH JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL
00305 VICKSBURG LA N
10011 36TH AVE N
PLYMOUTH MI 55447
PLYMOUTH MN 55441
S
MEMORANDUM
DATE: February 12, 1990
TO: City Officials and Legislators
FROM: Mary E. Anderson, Golden Valley Mayor,
Charles Darth, Assistant to the Manager and
Director of Intergovernmental Relations, Brooklyn Park
RE: February 24,91 90, Legislative Breakfast Meeting
8:00 a.m.. Crystal City Hall
We have arranged for a meeting on Saturday, February 24, at 8: 00 a.m. ,
Crystal City Hall , 4141 Douglas Drive N. Please put this time on
your calendar. Orange juice, rolls, and coffee will be provided.
The enclosed material is background information on agenda items. If
you want other information discussed, please contact Charlie Darth at
424-8000, Ext. 269.
CD:tlb
Attachments
AGENDA
1. BUDGET DEFICIT = BUDGET CUTS
2. TAX INCREMENT FINANCING
3. COMPARABLE WORTH
4. CRIME AND DRUGS
5. OTHER
� `'
Preview: 1990 Legislative
Session
Laurie Fiori Hacking, Joel J. Jamnik, Stanley G. Peskar, Ann Higgins, Andrea Lubov,
LMC staff
Amid great concern over -the abor- :
larger should the national economy dip
public policy to Penalize cities which
tion issue and important state elections
into a recession.
have adequate reserve levels. Such
in the fall of 1990, a sizable budget
The Pe ich administration is
action over the long -run would be coun-
shortfall looms over the 1990 legislative
expecte to Dropose cuts in city aid
terproductive since it would encourage
session, increasing the likelihood of
painful cuts in city aid programs such
programs to cleai with revenue—short-
a n ovember, former State
higher spending and more borrowing
and would likely result in lower bond
as local government aid (LGA) and mance Commissioner Tom Triplett
ratings.
homestead and agricultural credit aid
said that cuts in cities' 1990 local
(HACA). The budget shortfall could
government aid (LGA) allocations —
property tax changes
also mean limited progress in the trans-
portation area as well as in all other
due to be paid to cities in July and
December 1990— would be "on the
After the significant changes y our
state planning programs. While cities'
table." Less clear is whether aid pro-
Property system adopted by the
tax
1989 special session, the Legislature's
revenue sources are being constrained,
their authority to promote economic
grams to schools and counties will also
be "on the table." The Legislature
sentiment seems to be to refrain from
development through tax increment
would need to consider aid cuts before
mag any further mayor changes. In a
last November, Rep. Paul
financing could be further curtailed by
the 1990 Legislature. Additionally,
becoming law..meeting
The city aid cts could affect 1990
Ogren (DFL-Aiddn), the new House
changes in the state's pay equity law
payments. Such cuts would be particu-
tax chair, indicated to League staff that
could necessitate sizable increases in
laxly burdensome to cities since they
he would prefer to make only minor
adjustments in -the new tax law and
city personnel costs.
would be retroactive in nature, coming
well after cities have finalized their
only if they are needed. He also said
Aid cuts OSSible
!
budget and levy determinations for
that he may want to look at the cepa-
rate equalization aid formula for cities.
In November, the state finance
1990. The cuts could result in large
unanticipated revenue shortfalls for
One major change made last year
department released its forecast of
cities and essentially transfer the
was the $100 million transfer of city
revenues and expenditures for the
state's revenue shortfall problem to
and township aid to school districts.
remainder of the 1990-91 biennium.
cities. " .
House Majority Leader Dee Long
The forecast indicates a shortfall of
Administration officials are also
(DFL -Minneapolis) warned that this aid
$161 million through the period ending
examining was to ase aid cut on a
transfer may be perceived as popular
June 30, 1991. The shortfall is likely to
serve eve s. P,Yesumably offtcia s
that Legislature�' to
be much higher—in the neighborhood
tould pro se Tar er aid cuts forth a
consider further aid transfers away
of $200 million to $250 mllion—once
C es with lareer reserves. -The gue
from cities and to other local units.
the state counts all obligated expendi-
' argued that it is unfair and bad
- Another big change ratified last year
tures. The shortfall would' grow far
-l•
is the conversion of the homestead
.. : �.:s'--- .. ': r.� :+►5ti� �i�i+"9i�'�>�-r' _ _ �.r.... .��.....��u`r.:�. _ mac.. .. _. _ : x
credit program into an aid program
(HACA) which has a different structure
and formula than the original home-
stead credit program. The initial design
of the HACA formula was to compen-
sate for tax base losses from legislated
reductions in classification rates. How
the formula will work in the future is in
some doubt. Policy analysts worry that
because the complexity of the formula
and its newness the formula could work
in unforeseen and unintended ways and
could create a more expensive program
'than the original homestead credit
program.
There will be pressure from some to
phase out the HACA program (as the
administration originally recommended)
and to transfer HACA resources to
other aid programs, such as the LGA
formula for cities. The new tax law
already transfers most of school HACA
to the school aid formula. There may
be a gradual transfer of county HACA
to other county aid programs so that it
directly funds county welfare and
income maintenance programs.
Local government aid
Few people are happy with the cur-
rent LGA program. It has been criti-
cized because it is extremely
complicated, contains what some con-
sider to be arbitrary elements, and it
grandfathers previous LGA levels. The
administration has been particularly
critical of the program.
The special session tax law mandates
a study of the LGA program during
1990, in preparation for the 1991 legis-
lative session. The 1990 Legislature
could still consider changes in the
equalization aid component of LGA.
The Legislative Commission on Plan-
ning and Fiscal Policy, an 18 -member,
bipartisan committee of legislators, will
conduct the LGA study.
One issue that the LGA study will
likely address is the definition of
"need" in the formula. Past LGA
formulas have relied on current city
spending or taxing levels as the defini-
tion of need and this definition has been
criticized by some legislators. The new
tax law requires the commission to
conduct a "representative expenditure
study of alternative means ' to assess
• r.
LO
the relative service needs of cities,
1984. Proponents of the comparable
counties, towns, and school districts."
worth law have already begun efforts
Such as assessment of relative spend-
to amend the law to establish a differ-
ing needs might incorporate such fac-
ent definition of implementation.
tors as age of population, age of
Current law provides that the state
housing, poverty levels, infrastructure
mandate h—asbeen complied when
requirements, and crime rate into a
a reasona a relationship" exists
new LGA formula.
between the comRensation provided -to
�similarl value�o Questions
Tax increment financing
�classes.
regarding internal factors
such as merit and seniority, and outside
The signs all
gn pointed to "no major
factors such as mandatory binding arbi-
changes" in tax increment financing
tration, market availability, and fiscal
(TIF) during the 1990 legislative ses-
constraints cannot be easily separated
Sion. Major changes had been enacted
• -from the simple precept of comparable
in the 1988 and 1989 sessions, new
worth: that some jobs, 'held mainly by
reporting requirements become effec-
women, pay less because they are held
tive for taxes payable in 1989, and the
by women.
Legislative Auditor's study on tax
How to discern and quantify the pay
increment financing was expected to be
differences due to discrimination from
published in the summer of 1990. It
pay differences due to nondiscrimina-
appeared that 1990 was a year to
tory reasons is the single biggest prob-
evaluate the changes made during the
lem facing public employers seeking to
past two years.
implement pay equity or comparable
However, now this does not seem
vow.
to be the case. Paul Ogren, (DFL-
Some attribute all differences in pay
Aitkin) new chair of the house tax
between similarly valued female and
committee, and Bobanase
male dominated job classes as arising
New Prague), speaker ol the house,
from discrimination. Others are unwill-
Will Rlace reform of tax cfZin' ent
mg to concede that any difference can
financing at the top of their agen as for
ever by attributed to the gender of
e 199U session. Their concerns are
those doing the job. A surprising num-
that TEF is costing tha state too much
be of people feel comfortable at either
money, and that cities areae o
of these two extremes.
these juridictions have no say in the
use of their funds. It should be noted
that these other governments bear
none of the risk if the development
should fail.
Likely areas for legislative action
include tightening the "but for" and
blight tests, enacting guidelines for the
types of projects cities may use TIF,
further limitations on the types of public
expenditures which TIF can finance,
and creation of intergovernmental
boards to review TIF districts and
resolve any intergovernmental disputes
concerning TIF.
Pay equity
Minnesota's unique .comyarable
worth law may receive its first ma' r
overhaul since its ori . enactment in
analyzing these patterns is by visually
comparing the lines resulting from
graphing male jobs and female jobs
using their values and compensation
levels. The bill would authorize the
Commissioner of the Department of
Employee Relations to do this analysis.
Following a consultation. and appeal
process, the commissioner could order
the imposition of an LGA reduction
against any community not meeting the
standard of equivalent patterns.
The issue is complicated and politi-
cally sensitive and has the potential for
being expensive for communities found
to be out of compliance.
Februwy IM ► `
471
• .s•aJ�'!. - -i l !1ftX ��'rp. Sli-��!.'T-yV✓�^r�i"''5�-•�7g`SNn'•�'� T�`. �a'if�%.•i�
f.
= des Points
1. Amendments adopted in 1988 and 1989 have made new
districts subject to limitations and criteria regarding'
use of increment, intergovernmental reviews, and amount•of
increment to be retained in the district. The amendments
should result in smaller districts and decrease the
ability to pool increments or amend plans for additional
public expenditures.
2. There is evidence that the restrictions may already be
working. A Senate Research Report dated July 26,,-1989,
demonstrates that the rate'of growth of tax increment
value has slowed significantly. From 1987 to 1988
the increase was 31%, from 1988 to 1989 this had decreased
to 19%.
--3. Property tax reform has and will impact TIF districts.
Several districts receiving disparity aid have experienced
decreases in TIF revenues. Some cities have been required
to levy taxes to make up TIF shortfalls. Districts that
have a large number of homesteads could have TIF
shortfalls. The shortfall could occur because the
homestead credit or its successor program - HACA - is no
longer paid to the district.
4. There should be no TIF action in 1990, which will be a
short, intense session. Much more information will be
available in the 1991 session. For example:
- The Legislative Commission on Fiscal Policy has TIF as a
part of its work program.. They should be encouraged to
work on TIF in preparation for the 1991 session.
- The Static Planning Agency is conducting a study of
social and economic development needs in Greater
Minnesota.
- More comprehensive TIF data will be available from the
Department of Revenue beginning.in 1991.
- The Legislative Auditor will be conducting a
comprehensive review of local iconomic development
powers, policies, and tools in preparation for the 1991
session. j -
Too much emphasis is being put on the details of the TIF
tool. TIF is -:a tool and not a policy. More focus needs to
be put on the underlying policy issues associated with TIF.
-}j='Z�.'4.•:�k'' `iia r .::: �i� ar •'� ' ' �' -:. ; ....yj.4-._�. y. _�• _'-.Lie-,- - .:ai.�`:`�^.' _.a:.1� �.. _ _
J •
S. House Research estimates that TIF costs the state $70.0
Million annually. The estimate assumes that all of TIF
development would occur anyway. The estimate does not
consider spin-off development, such as the projects in
downtown Minneapolis, nor does it consider increased state
sales and income taxes generated in the district or the
Spin-off projects.
6. Arguments for particular cities and interest.
7. Political arguments.
,
-alk fir' ��: • .:_';,.;� - �: _ �:. •-;: - s, —' — - �.
a Him •T.=%it-:i-.)..,�- �• '�L•.. .,,.ri•. �'j7• Y^ •�w':•
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA WHERE: Plymouth City Center
WEDNESDAY, February 28, 1990 3400 Plymouth Boulevard
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS Plymouth, MN 55447
CONSENT AGENDA
All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine by the
Planning Commission and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no
separate discussion of these items unless a Commissioner, citizen or
petitioner so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the
consent agenda and considered in normal sequence on the agenda.
��l►��i�:Zei�►l7:
7:15 P.M.
7:30 P.M.
February 14, 1990
A—
A. Hans Hagen Homes, Inc. Preliminary Plat and Rezoning from FRD to R-
AA and B-3 located at the Southwest Corner of Dunkirk Lane and
County Road 24 (89090)
B. Hoyt Development Company. Site Plan Amendment, Conditional Use
Permit and Variance for property located at the southeast corner of
County Road 6 and County Road 61 (90002)
C. Trammell Crow Company. Rezoning, Lot Division, Lot Consolidation,
Site Plan and Variance for Plymouth Business Center expansion
located at the northwest corner of Berkshire Lane and County Road 9
(90005)
D. Eiden Construction Inc. Preliminary Plat for Hawthorne Place
located west of Highway 101, south of 8th Avenue (90006)
Metropolitan Waste Control Commission
Mears Park Centre, 230 East Fifth Street, St. Pau1,,.Mi k!jS to
*41K �'6J3;• 222-842
February 16, 1990
l` o }-
To Municipal Users of the Metropolitan Waste"- �trol
Commission's System: ''•'�-�
v
iy i
The Metropolitan Waste Control Commission (MWCC) as
scheduled pre -budget breakfast meetings for elected officials
and staff of municipalities who are users of the MWCC system.
This meeting is to seek input from you prior to establishing
the MWCC's 1991 Draft Budget.
Three March meetings have been scheduled in various locations
around the metro area. We hope that you will be able to
attend one of the scheduled meetings. Meeting dates and
locations are:
March 9 - 7:30-9:00 a.m. - Ramada Inn
I-94 and White Bear Ave.
St. Paul
(reservations due by
March 6 )
March 12 - 7:30-9:00 a.m.
- Sheraton Northwest
I-94 and Co. Rd. 81
(exit #31)
Brooklyn Park
(reservations due
March 9 )
March 16 - 7:30-9:00 a.m. - Radisson South
7800 Normandale Blvd.
Hwy 100 near Hwy 494
Bloomington
(reservations due by
March 13)
In mid-to-late May the MWCC will schedule budget breakfast
meetings to present the 1991 MWCC Draft Budget. Comments
from both the March and May meetings will be taken into
consideration in drafting the the 1991 MWCC Operating and
Capital Budget. This budget is presently scheduled for a
public hearing at the MWCC Board Meeting on June 19, 1990.
The operating and capital budgets for 1991 are scheduled to
appear for approval on the July 17, 1990 meeting agenda of
the MWCC Board of Commissioners.
To place your reservation for a pre -budget breakfast meeting,
call Larry Struck at 229-2100.
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
_OappO
Q
m
W
LL
O N N
g t0 N w t0
N
et OD
10
Ox r r N
W
Qf
M O n et �-
7L N M
Q
QZ N O CO N O
'S ~
O P O YO N N
i
n It N CO
N
N M
LL N 0) t0 N M
O U) N N
m
O
n CO
S
N
V
Q W
O
N
N
O
O
N
i
a
ai
N
Q
m
W
LL
O N N
g t0 N w t0
N
et OD
10
Ox r r N
W
Qf
M O n et �-
7L N M
Q
QZ N O CO N O
'S ~
O P O YO N N
i
n It N CO
N
O
H
U
G]
Q
�w
wrn
o�c
N O
H
y+ 1-4
I
PA�
> a%U)O
M
H
d'
O
N
M
�,
r,
N cn U rn
Q
0
LL
M
N
N
P4
u
>4cm 0
P4
3
cn
co -It
M
w M
D
H O
LU
M:
0
n
U H
co
U
P4 C.D
Uo
ch
N
Pa
w
Ln
0 r4
CO
m
a
N
OtoYQ
G
W
Q
2W
D
i
u•') U
3O1 CA-
V U<
V -4
V -I O
• • C3 M
U
ai O
�
t\
Z
�z
�. rz
W
.
z
U
N
N a
z
z
o
}
N
W
o a
U
~
M
<�O
I� as
Cfl
N
N
H
U +'
-
c
Q-
'J+ U
R
0a
z g
Z O
i
W
H H S O a
}
Q
O
Od
O
f
rt
21,U
U) En OO
M U O
Q
U M
O
W<
LL. M
O W O
z
aa
O
<
LLJ ��
MLL-W
Cf)
O
�i
H
^
Z4
O> -OJ
= O
WU
3w
=F -U
CD CD
U),
H
Q
Z
D
0T-
d-
r-
N
t
t
n le 00
N N
O
N
LL 'M N
= O N rf
N
O
~
O
a�aoLf)
O
N
� � N
J
p
=2U.
N
Q
0
LU M O
Q
N
D n a N N
N w m
3
G N N
i
O N
N
N
t
t
N Of m N
O
!!
LCO
O
N
lb
p
=2U.
N
Q
0
D n a N N
U
~
a
3
3
cc
t :
W
w m M o n
N N
LL
O - -
O N
N
L.
It - O
Q
? N
N
O
N
Q
0
U
~
a
cc
F
D
t
N
Q
O
N
M
!
:
M
Q
0
cc
U -
CD
M
O
N
M
N
M
QZ
co
o
�
Z
W
W
W
� a
Uj
~
L> C)
Ln
��
N
M
00
N
N
qua
oa
(n-1
OCD
U
Cl
z
I�ZM
C13M
0~
^
Lij
=z .
P-4
Z
_
I�
���
N
N
o!�
cm
z
z
t-'
m
Q
o
z
O
g
U- 7—
w
o
D
°-
~<O
O
Co
m
N
N
P4
-j
..�
D+ce)CD
z�
azo
E
L) O
co u O
C!� I
O
0
of
H
CDcz
N
m
�CDcmco
Ln
O w
��
�
CD LU
N
Q
Z
U)
co
LO
d'
�
N
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: February 22, 1990
TO: James G.lis, 'ty Manager
FROM: Chuck D 11 unity Development Coordinator
SUBJECT: PRIM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS FOR
PROJECT IDENTIFICATION SIGNAGE IN COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICTS
(89080)
At its meeting November 20, 1989, the City Council tabled a request by the
Prime Development Corporation to amend the Zoning Ordinance with respect to
project identification signs with direction that the Prime West proposal be
considered by the Council no later than February 26, 1990. The Zoning
Ordinance amendment proposed was to allow project identification signage
within commercial zones in a manner similar to what is now permitted for
project identification signage in residential zones. The Planning Commission
had recommended approval of Ordinance amendments on a split vote, and the
petitioner, at the November 20, 1989, City Council meeting addressed the
Council concerning additional amendments that he desired.
Preparatory to the February 26, 1990, Council meeting, Community Development
Director Tremere wrote the petitioner, Prime Development Corporation, to
ascertain their continued interest in their petition and that nothing further
had been heard from them since the November 1989 meeting. No response has
been forthcoming from Prime Development Corporation in response to Mr.
Tremere's February 12, 1990, letter.
The joint study session with the Planning Commission concerning the subject of
project identification signage in commercial zones was not undertaken during
January or February as had been anticipated in November 1989.
Based on the foregoing, I recommend that the matter of the petition to amend
the Zoning Ordinance with respect to project signage and commercial zones be
again deferred by the City Council and that the Council be asked for direction
as to its position of this matter should the original petitioner no longer
desire to pursue the issue, as it now appears.
Attachments:
1. Blair Tremere's Letter of February 12, 1990, to Prime Development
2. City Council Minutes of November 30, 1989
3. Staff Memorandum to the City Council Dated November 13, 1989
(cc/cd/prime:dl)
February 12, 1990
PRIME DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
6442 City West Parkway
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Dear Sirs:
CIN OF
PLYMOUTI-F
Please advise me in writing about the status of the Prime West Business Park
Development relative to the following:
1. The completion of site improvements for which a site improvement
performance agreement was executed and for which financial guarantees
were submitted.
2. The application submitted on your behalf regarding a zoning ordinance
amendment as to project identification signs. The City Council last
year had anticipated completion of a joint study session with a joint
planning commission on this subject by this time, but that has not
occurred and the target date of February 26 no longer seems
realistic.
The City Council this year directed that we determine the status of
this request -especially since, according to recent media reports,
your interests in this development may have changed.
This is not intended to diminish the significance of the request
relative to zoning ordinance provisions for project signs, but it is
to suggest that the timing of that consideration may be extended
especially if it is not a high priority for you.
We have attempted to contact you by telephone regarding these matters;
hopefully, this letter explains the questions we have and will prompt you to
respond.
You may contact me or Community Development Coordinator, Chuck Dillerud
(550-5059). ,
Sincerely,,
Blair
Community Development Director
cc: File 89080
pl/bt/prime
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 1989
Page 333
MOTION was made by Councilmember Zitur, seconded by
Councilmemb Sisk, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 89-743 IMPOSING
PENALTY FOR L OR LAW VIOLATION AGAINST PLYMOUTH LIQUOR INC.
MOTION to amend wa ade by Councilmember Ricker, seconded by
Councilmember Zitur, t amend Condition No. 2 of the resolution
to specify the penalty b eposited in City of Plymouth Account
No. 205-000-503.00-093-000 to be used for drug education
purposes.
Motion to amend carried, five ayes.
Main motion as once amended carried ona oll Call vote, five
ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Sisk, seconded b ouncilmember
Zitur, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 89-744 APPROVING A NDITIONAL
USE PERMIT FOR PRESBYTERIAN NEW CHURCH DEVELOPMENT TO AW<FOR
A PLACE OF WORSHIP IN THE R-2 DISTRICT (89093).
Motion carried on a Roll Call vote, five ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Sisk, seconded by Councilmember
Zitur, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 89-745 APPROVING AMENDED SITE
PLAN/CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AND ZONING ORDINANCE VARIANCE FOR
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 4284 (WAYZATA) (89094).
RESOLUTION NO. 89-743
IMPOSING PENALTY
AGAINST PLYMOUTH
LIQUOR FOR LIQUOR LAW
VIOLATION
Item 7-C
RESOLUTION NO. 89-744
APPROVING CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT FOR
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
(89093)
Item *8-A
UTION NO. 89-745
PLAN/CN ITIONAL USE
PERMIT AN VARIANCE
FOR I.S.D. 284 (89094)
Motion carried on a Roll Call vote, five ayes. Item *8-B
Todd Mohagen, 224 Benton Avenue, Wayzata, presented the request Prime West Business
of Prime Development Corporation for amendments to the Sign Park, Request for
Ordinance to allow additional project identification signs in Project Identification
the business zones. Mr. Mohagen proposed aggregate project Signage (89080)
signage of 64 square feet and an additional project sign of 120 Item 8-C
square feet for developments that are directly adjacent to a
major thoroughfare.
Director Tremere stated the Planning Commission endorsed his
proposal for project signage of 64 square feet. The proposed
ordinance was amended to reflect the increase from 32 to 64 feet
for project signage in each of the business zones. However, the
Planning Commission did not endorse an additional project
identification sign.
Mr. Mohagen stated that in his particular development, a project
identification sign is needed on Highway 55 and I-494 due to the
fast moving traffic.
Regular Council Meeting ~.
November 20, 1989
Page 334
Director Tremere stated the Planning Commission felt that the
developer could address adequate signage through a master sign
plan. Also, they questioned the need for identification signage
since each industrial development within the site will be
signed.
Councilmember Sisk stated everything should be done to allow the
Council to consider the total sign package as part of the
overall development plan.
Mayor Schneider noted this development is conventional platting;
not a Planned Unit Development, where signing would be addressed
as part of the initial approval.
Councilmember Vasiliou stated the entire sign issue is an
unclear, complex issue and should be studied.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Vasiliou, seconded by
Councilmember Zitur, to table the sign request of Prime West
Business Park (89080).
MOTION to amend the main motion was made by Mayor Schneider,
seconded by Councilmember Sisk, that the entire sign issue be
considered at a study session in January, 1990 and the Prime
West proposal be considered by the Council no later than January
22.
MOTION to amend the amendment was made by Councilmember Zitur,
seconded by Councilmember Ricker, that the Prime West proposal
be considered by the Council no later than February 26.
Motion to amend the amendment carried, four ayes, Schneider nay.
Motion to amend, as once amended, carried; five ayes.
Main motion, as once amended, carried on a Roll Call vote, five
aves.
MOTION was made by o Sisk, seconded by Councilmember RESOLUTION NO. 89-746
Zitur, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 8 - CONDITIONS TO BE SETTING CONDITIONS TO
MET PRIOR TO FILING OF AND RELATED TO FINAL ET BE MET PRIOR TO FILING
VALLEY HOMES SECOND ADDITION (89092). 0'10
Item *8-D
Motion carried on a Roll Call vote, five ayes.
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE:
November 13, 1989 For City Council
Meeting of November 20,
1989
TO:
James G. Willis, City Manager
FROM:
Community Development Coordinator
Charls illerud
through
Community Development Director Blair Treme
SUBJECT:
PRIME DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION.
PETITION TO AMEND THE
ZONING
ORDINANCE TEXT TO ALLOW PROJECT
IDENTIFICATION SIGNS
IN THE
BUSINESS ZONES (89080)
ACTION REQUESTED: Adopt the attached Ordinance providing for amendments
to the Sign Ordinance Section of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance regarding
project identification signs in the business zones, as recommended by
the Planning Commission.
Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance requires a 4/5 vote of the City
Council.
BACKGROUND:
The Planning Commission at its meeting of November 8, 1989, on a vote of
4-2, took action recommending approval of a draft Ordinance to amend the
Zoning Ordinance to permit project or area identification signs in the B-1,
B-2, and B-3 Zones. This action followed a hearing on October 11, 1989, on
a petition by Prime Development Corporation to consider amending the Zoning
Ordinance to permit such signage in the B-1 Zone.
PRIMARY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS:
In his application, the petitioner limited the requested amendment to
signage in the B-1 Zone; provided proposed amendment language that is
similar in structure to that language in the Zoning Ordinance with respect
area identification signage in the residential zones, and; proposed sign
specifications for project signage that would be significantly greater than
that now permitted in the residential zones. The petitioner proposed
aggregate project signage of 64 square feet (residential zones permit 32
square feet); and an additional project sign of 120 square feet for
developments that are directly adjacent to a major thoroughfare (no such
sign is permitted in the residential district).
(see next page)
Page Two
File 89080
The petitioner proposed an Ordinance amendment for area identification signs
in the B-1 (office limited business') Zone only. The Planning Commission
recommends extending the amendment to the B-2 and B-3 Zones.
The Planning Commission recommends an increase in the area allowable for the
project signage from the 32 feet now permitted in the residential zones (and
recommended by staff) to an aggregate 64 square feet.
The Planning Commission does not recommend the additional project
identification sign of 120 square feet in addition to thoroughfares, as
requested by the petitioner.
The consenting Commissioners indicated that they support any project or area
identification signage Ordinance provisions to include a requirement for a
master sign plan over the entire project.
The Zoning Ordinance amendment recommended by the Planning Commission
contains standards with respect to ownership and maintenance of such project
identification signs similar to those that exist in the Ordinance with
respect to residential zones. In addition, the Planning Commission
recommends a minimum of 20 acres in project size; the existence of multi -
tenant structures; and the existence of multiple sites need prerequisites to
pay allowance of such area identification signs in business districts.
Maximum sign height was not specifically addressed by the Planning
Commission or the petitioner. The recommended Ordinance amendment includes
a maximum height for area identification signs equal to the maximum
permitted height for freestanding (pylon) business signs (those that relate
to specific uses on individual sites), in the respective zoning district (B-
1 = 16 feet; B-2 = 36 feet; B-3 = 36 feet).
RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS:
I hereby recommend adoption of the attached Ordinance providing for an
amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to permit project identification signs
within projects in the B usiness Districts that meet specified standards of
scale and site/structure usage, as recommended by the Planning Commission.
I also recommended that the Council determine if the Commission should
consider an amendment that would require a master sign plan for developments
where area identification signage is proposed. Planning staff endorses the
idea.
Attachments:
1. Draft Zoning Ordinance Amendment to Permit Area Identification Signs in
the Business Zones.
2. Planning Commission Minutes of November 8, 1989
3. Planning Commission Minutes of October 11, 1989
4. Staff Analysis and Recommendation
5. Petitioner's Letter of August 23, 1989
(cc/cd/89080:dl)
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
ORDINANCE NO. 89 -
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING PORTIONS OF THE ORDINANCE 80-9 ADOPTED JUNE 16, 1980, AS
AMENDED, AND KNOWN AS THE PLYMOUTH ZONING ORDINANCE, RELATIVE TO SIGNAGE IN
THE B-1, B-2 AND B-3 DISTRICTS.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Amend Section 10, Subdivision A, Paragraph 3. with the
addition of the following:
D. Area Identification Signs.
1) Area identification signage shall be permitted for each commercial
.,----+ nv. c.skd4%t;e4nn. fnr nnrnneac of +hie ear+inn rnmmarrial
developments.
2) The area identification signage shall be located at the entrance to
the project or subdivision.
3)
4)
signs shall be 16 feet.
Section 2. Amend Section 10, Subdivision A, Paragraph 4. with the
addition of the following.
D. Area Identification Signs.
referred to as entrance monument signs. Such projects or subdivisions
shall have multiple structures: be occupied by multiple tenants: have a
minimum area of 20 acres.
1)
2)
3)
developments.
signs shall be 36 feet.
4) A covenant prepared by the proponent establishing responsibility, for
issuance of the Sign Permit.
Section 3. Amend Section 10, Subdivision A, Paragraph 5. with the
addition of the following:
E. Area Identification Signs. Area identification signs are intended
rhell have m..l+inlc e+rnrtnroc• ho nrrnniorl by tnultinla TOnAntC• n;ivp 7
1)
developments.
2) The area identification signage shall be located at the entrance to
the project or subdivision.
3)
subdivision. The typical use of two such signs is to create a
located in any side yard.
signs shall be 36 feet,
4)
for the approved signs on the property or properties wnere the signs
are to be located• the easements shall be recorded prior to the
issuance of the Sign Permit.
Section 4. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect upon its
passage and publication.
Adopted by the City Council this day of , 1989.
Mayor
ATTEST
City Clerk
Strue'- Material - indicates deleted text
Underscore - indicates new text
(cc/cd/Sec.10:jw)
MEMO
DATE: February 21, 1990
TO: Darrel Anderson, Don Kissinger, Sue Mauderer, Mary Patterson,
Bob Pemberton, Dick Pouliot, Laurie Rauenhorst, Lee Vachuska
FROM: Helen LaFave, Communications Coordinator
SUBJECT: ARTICLES FOR APRIL NEWSLETTER
Thank you for your input on the city newsletter. Based upon our meeting and
suggestions from department heads, I developed a list of regular features as
well as articles for the April issue.
The newsletter will include five regular features: Mayor's Message; Mark Your
Calendar; news briefs; Council Update (a summary of recent Council actions);
and a listing of city activities entitled "In the Works."
"In the Works" is intended to address departmental concerns that due to lack
of space we will no longer be able to let residents know about routine city
activities that often generate phone calls (e.g. tree trimming, engineering
construction projects, watermain flushing). It will be a bare bones listing
of the activity, approximate date(s) and a phone number to call for more
information. If your department would like to have something listed, please
submit the relevant information to me by Friday, March 2 at 4:30 p.m.
REGULAR FEATURES
Mayors Message
Mark Your Calendar (Laurie)
In the Works (A listing of city activities, approximate dates and telephone
number for more information). (Helen)
- Marking of Dutch Elm Diseased Trees
- Engineering Construction Projects
Council Update (A summary of recent Council actions -- Helen)
News Briefs (Helen)
- Public Safety Building Update
- 1990 Census
- Information on utility bill return envelopes
- Transfer Station Update
- Task Force on Outside Storage
Water Restrictions/Conservation (Helen)
Introduction of Newsletter/Name the Newsletter Contest (Helen)
Yard Waste Disposal Status Report (Dick Pouliot/Helen)
OVER
Board of Review/Property Tax Rates'(Sue Mauderer/Helen)
1990 Budget Calendar (Helen/Dale Hahn)
1990 CIP Projects (Dick Pouliot/Helen)
FILLER (Space Permitting -- Helen)
- Dog Ordinance Reminder
- Intersection Sight Obstructions
- Fence Permits
- Home Rehab Grant Program
cc: Department Heads
'MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: February 16, 1990
TO: Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manager
FROM: Helen LaFave, Communications Coordinator
SUBJECT: PLANS FOR CITY NEWSLETTER
Because I just finished with the last issue of Plymouth on Parade and now the
April deadline for having the new city newsletter published is rapidly
approaching, I am planning to streamline the process in order to get the new
newsletter and recreation insert printed on time.
I will be meeting with the employee newsletter committee on Tues., Feb. 20 to
get their story ideas for the first issue.
The change in format will require that advertisers change their ads because
the proportions will change. I will revise the advertising rates to reflect
the larger page size. I will have the new rates to you by Tues., Feb.20.
Initially, I will contact only the businesses which had agreed to advertise in
Plymouth on Parade in 1990. I will explain the changes and see if they are
interested in advertising in the recreation portion of the newsletter. After
the first i ssue of the newsletter is published I will do a mailing to other
Plymouth businesses to solicit ads.
I plan to request bids and enter into a new contract with a printer beginning
with the June/July issue of the newsletter. I will work with Sexton Printing,
our current printer, on the April issue. Sexton has always provided
outstanding service and very competitive prices. By working with them, I am
certain that I •will be able to meet the Council's April deadline for
publishing the newsletter. Sexton also has extensive experience working with
clients who use desktop publishing.
February 16,1990
Vonnie Ribbe
10860 54th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55442
Dear Vonnie:
Mayor Bergman has referred your resident feedback form to me as you submitted
it at the February 12 Town Meeting. Your inquiry is about the measures the
City takes to protect natural woodlands. Several years ago, the City had a
professional consultant conduct a physical constraints analysis of the City
and that analysis included an overall inventory of such things as woodland
area. The City has a limited number of copies of that analysis but you are
very welcome to stop by and review it at the City Center.
We require development plans to reflect significant tree stands and we have
tools available such as aerial photographs. Also, we inspect every site that
is being proposed for development before the development occurs.
Your form also asked the question about what is being done to protect the
trees during the development process. I have enclosed for your information a
copy of the policy adopted by the City Council regarding protection of trees.
This is now in force with all urban development in the City. Questions
regarding this can be directed to Community Development Coordinator Chuck
Dillerud, or to City Forester Don Kissinger. The City Council is concerned
about the preservation of trees throughout the City.
You will see from that policy that a construction zone is defined so that
other portions of a site can be protected. -
The City Park and Recreation Advisory Commission and the City Council have,
over the years, developed a master park plan for the City. This represents
property that the City anticipates may need to be actually purchased if it is
not dedicated during the development process. There are a variety of criteria
used to determine the park needs and you may discuss that with Park and
Recreation Director Eric Blank.
Regulations requiring permits before any precutting on private property can
occur are not easily or inexpensively enforced. Communities that have tried
such ordinances have had difficulty in policing it because of the generally
held belief that private trees are within the domain of the property owner.
Our experience has been that most property owners would not arbitrarily cut
trees such as substantial oak or maple varieties unless there were diseases
present; this is because of the value those trees represent. As noted, we do
regulate the cutting of trees on new sites undergoing development.
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
Vonnie Ribbe
February 16, 1990
Page 2
16.
I understand your concerns and I will convey them to the Planning Commission
as they periodically review the various regulatory controls the City has
regarding the development of the City. The City's Comprehensive Plan
recognizes woodlands as a vital asset to the City and the plan was developed
in part recognizing the concerned suggestions you have expressed.
Let me know if you have further questions in this regard and feel free to
contact the individuals noted above regarding those specific matters.
Thank you for attending the Town Meeting.
Sincerely,
Waiemere
Community Development Director
(pl/bt/harstad)
3
RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORK
Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear
on the town meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond
and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address and phone number, we
will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern.
NATURE OF CONCERN/ TY ADDRESS INVOLVED:
'A/77� Z7XI5
NAME OF CONCERNED RESIDENT:
ADDRESS OF RESIDENT: 1'?P'6100��-
PHONE NUMBER: �; 3 — 0 � �L I
445
9
ACTION
,l
YOU DESIRE
THE CITY TO
1
TAKE:
_ 4 / A � _
'A/77� Z7XI5
NAME OF CONCERNED RESIDENT:
ADDRESS OF RESIDENT: 1'?P'6100��-
PHONE NUMBER: �; 3 — 0 � �L I
445
9
_
CIT 10F
PIYMOUTR
February 16, 1990
Mark Byington
4495 Quinwood Lane
Plymouth, MN 55442
Dear Mr. Byington:
Mayor Bergman has forwarded your resident feedback form to me for review and
comment. On your form you asked that you be notified about the development
meetings for Swan Lake Neighborhood Park.
The City Council is going to be discussing this matter at their February 26
meeting. If they authorize this project to move forward at this time, I would
anticipate that the neighborhood meetings will be held the week of March 12.
All residents liv.ng within the walking neighborhood served by Swan Lake
Neighborhood Park will receive written correspondence inviting them to the
meetings. If you have any further questions about this subject, you may reach
me at 550-5131.
Sincerely,
Erick J. Blank
Director of Parks rnd Recreation
EB:ds
cc(City Manager
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM
Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear
on the town meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond
and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address and phone number, we
will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern.
NATURE OF CONCERN/PROPERTY ADDRESS INVOLVED:
div [tG MN
dZ
Lra V-(! pcvv— +- V(4cP' 1
ACTION YOU DESIRE THE CITY TO TAKE:
NAME OF CONCERNED RESIDENT: KA& &41�4-TZ4
ADDRESS OF RESIDENT: '� (!�Dj (0j W agll
PHONE NUMBER: ge----s obe'�j CL-
e�,fq_`{22-4_ Cor
CITY OF
PUMOUTR
February 16, 1990
Sam Macalus
4505 Quinwood Lane
Plymouth, MN 55442
Dear Mr. Macalus:
Mayor Bergman has forwarded your resident feedback form to me for review and
comment. In your letter you state you want to know what's going on with the
Swan Lake Neighborhood Park.
The City Council is going to be discussing Swan Lake Neighborhood Park at the
February 26 meeting. If the Council authorizes to move ahead with that
project, we will be selecting an architect who will be charged with
responsibility of designing the park. The first step in the park design is to
hold meetings with all of the residents in the walking neighborhood to get
their input on exactly the type of facilities and how they would like to see
the park developed. The issue of what's going to happen at the dead end of
45th Avenue will come during those neighborhood meetings. It is a major issue
for this park, and it is necessary that we arrive at a decision that will
allow for good public access to the park from the north. All of the residents
in the walking neighborhood will receive written correspondence from us
inviting them to attend the first meeting with the landscape architect. I
hope you and your neighbors will join us for that meeting.
If I may be of further assistance, you may reach me at 550-5131.
Sincerely,
Eric J. Blank
Director of Parks and Recreation
EB: ds
cc ttity Manager
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
Fri
RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM
Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear
on the town meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond
and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address and phone number, we
will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern.
NATURE OF CONCERN/PROPERTY ADDRESS INVOLVED:
ACTION YOU DESIRE THE CITY TO TAKE:
NAME OF CONCERNED RESIDENT: ')'YL� P�(� C Ll (A
ADDRESS OF RESIDENT:'
PHONE NUMBER:-(' J
February 16, 1990 CITY OF
PLYMOUTH+
Norman Gartner
12910 - 56th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55442
SUBJECT: WETLANDS TASK FORCE
Dear Mr. Gartner:
Mayor Bergman has referred your resident feedback form from the February 12
Town Meeting to me. On that form you asked that your name be considered in
the event that the City Council elects to appoint a wetlands task force for
the community. I have placed your request on file for future reference in
the event that the Council elects to create a wetlands task force.
Thank you for volunteering your time for this worthwhile effort.
I hope you foun the Town Meeting useful.
y
1 ,c1�o esnt City Manager
FB:kec
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
'-E
RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM
Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear
on the town meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond
and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address and phone number, we
will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern.
NATURE OF CONCERN/PROPERTY ADDRESS INVOLVED:
ACTION YOU DESIRE THE CITY TO TAKE:
!i zk5 v -7.
NAME OF CONCERNED RESIDENT:
ADDRESS OF RESIDENT: /„?9/l Flo ;9 �1/E "'(J'
PHONE NUMBER:S� /�9�
s�
February 16, 1990 CITY OF
PUMOUTR
Thomas Stenoien
10510 - 49th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55442
SUBJECT: WETLANDS TASK FORCE
Dear Mr. Stenoien:
Mayor Bergman has referred your resident feedback form from the February 12
Town Meeting to me. On that form you asked that your name be considered in
the event that the City Council elects to appoint a wetlands task force for
the community. I have placed your request on file for future reference in
the event that the Council elects to create a wetlands task force.
Thank you for volunteering your time for this worthwhile effort.
I hope you foun he Town Meeting useful.
i cere ,
Fran Bo es
Assis ant City Manager
FB:kec
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM
Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear
on the town meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond
and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address and phone number, we
will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern.
NATURE OF CONCERN/PROPERTY ADDRESS INVOLVED:
ACTION YOU DESIRE THE CITY TO TAKE:
NAME OF CONCERNED RESIDENT:,
ADDRESS OF RESIDENT:
PHONE NUMBER: ��%
February 16, 1990 CITY C
PLYMOUTH
Marge Runnakko
10440 - 49th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55442
SUBJECT: WETLANDS TASK FORCE
Dear Ms. Runnakko:
Mayor Bergman has referred your resident feedback form from the February 12
Town Meeting to me. On that form you asked that your name be considered in
the event that the City Council elects to appoint a wetlands task force for
the community. I have placed your request on file for future reference in
the event that the Council elects to create a wetlands task force.
Thank you for volunteering your time for this worthwhile effort.
I hope yW
a Town Meeting useful.
i cer Fran
Assi ant City Manager
FB:kec
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM
Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear
on the town meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond
and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address and phone number, we
will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern.
NATURE OF CONCERN/PROPERTY ADDRESS INVOLVED:
s -s -y- `fab
NAME OF CONCERNED -RESIDENT:
ADDRESS OF RESIDENT:
PHONE NUMBER:
February 16, 1990
Mary Jo Stenoien
10510 - 49th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55442
SUBJECT: WETLANDS TASK FORCE
Dear Ms. Stenoinen:
Mayor Bergman has referred your resident feedback form from'the February 12
Town Meeting to me. On that form you asked that your name be considered in
the event that the City Council elects to appoint a wetlands task force for
the community. I have placed your request on file for future reference in
the event that the Council elects to create a wetlands task force.
Thank you for volunteering your time for this worthwhile effort.
I hope you found
Fran
Assi
FB:kec
Meeting useful.
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM
Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear
on the town meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond
and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address and phone number, we
will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern.
NATURE OF CONCERN/PROPERTY ADDRESS INVOLVED:
ArTTnN vniI nFSTRF TNF CTTY TO TAKE!
NAME OF CONCERNED RESIDENT:
ADDRESS OF RESIDENT:
PHONE NUMBER:
a:
CITY C
PLYMOUTR
February 16, 1990
David J. Gilson
4930 Pine View Lane North
Plymouth, MN 554
Dear Mr. Gilson:
I have reviewed your resident feedback form that you submitted at the February
12 Town Meeting. You inquire about the zoning west of your property along
future Schmidt Lake Road. There is land on the west side of I-494 that has a
Land Use Guide Plan classification of Planned Industrial (IP) which, when
sewer is available, would allow the property to be zoned I-1 (Planned
Industrial). That means industrial uses allowed by the Zoning Ordinance could
be developed there.
The City's transportation plan provides for an extension of Schmidt Lake Road
under the freeway and westerly through this property. I am enclosing a
photocopy of that portion of the Land Use Guide Plan so that you can see this
area. You will note that west of that industrial area, the land is
residential and/or agricultural.
There are many areas throughout the City where industrial development has
occurred adjacent to or near by residential development. City ordinances are
very sensitive to the need for proper transition of those land uses.
You should note also that the Planning Commission is very aware of the traffic
generation by such development especially if it passes by or through
residential areas. That is taken into account as development proposals are
considered.
I understand your concerns about extension of the road. I believe Public
Works Director Fred Moore, will be responding in more detail to that. Let me
say, however, that Schmidt Lake Road is a vital part of the City's overall
transportation network and that as the City continues to develop, roads such
as Schmidt Lake Road are needed to assure good access and circulation
throughout the community.
Please feel free to stop by City Center and review the City's Transportation
Plan which explains the needs of the community in more detail. You may also
want to examine the Land Use Guide Plan Element of the Comprehensive Plan
which discusses the Planned Industrial classification.
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
David J. Gilson
February 16, 1990
Page 2
Please let me know if I can provide further information. Thank you for
attending the Town Meeting and thank for your feedback.
Sincerely,
%Qere
Community Development Director
4"C": James G. Willis, City Manager
Enclosure
(pl/bt/harstad)
RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM
• Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear
on the town meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond
and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address and phone number, we
will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern.
NATURE OF CONCERN/PROPER Y ADDRESS INVOLVED: 1-141
�C-4 s; T L k� ��l • �%Q3o ���tiviCw Ln. N.
A
M
of
ACTION YOU DESIRE THE CITY TO TAKE: 0 tt t.ft
Lva"a's. C'Aa --C',r*;0d uy g« fdot-AV,
t1cr,a D.uV►r K'II, 61, 0, wZ4-+ PSC kA I+ 0.. 1 k 'if
0'011� R, C CUM yf jhk -e-Veq-f'q ( Z'rff,1 0Vt mr -rh'1 rad
NAME OF CONCERNED RESIDENT: fp 3'. I(.s*
ADDRESS OF RESIDENT: L'g-SO P Agi-tw L.. X.
PHONE NUMBER: 3 �Z 35P�[ ru . S�3 •Zap6
5C41-,, q a. 4,
Al .f� will
`P to f a rea .
February 21, 1990
William and Marlys Gimble
5405 Orleans Lane North, #1
Plymouth, MN 55442
SUBJECT: RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Gimble:
CIN OF
PLYMOUTF+
Mayor Bergman has referred your resident feedback form to me. You had three
concerns. One of your concerns was whether or not the Plymouth Dial -A -Ride
still serves the New Hope K -Mart and in -town Maple Grove. The second
concern was crimes against persons. Your final concern was about wetlands.
Since the Dial -A -Ride program was initiated in April of 1989, we have had
very few requests for service either to the New Hope K -Mart or in -town Maple
Grove. To most effectively provide the service, it is important that the
length of each ride be reduced insofar as possible. This means that low use
destinations are eliminated. While we currently serve New Hope K -Mart and
in -town Maple Grove, we do so on an "as time is available" basis. If
current ridership trend continues, it is likely that service to both
locations will be discontinued in the future. So the riders really control
how long service will continue to these locations.
To address your second concern about crimes against persons I have attached
a Plymouth Police Department monthly report for January - December. As you
can see, all levels of crime have increased somewhat over the past year. If
you have questions, please feel free to contact Public Safety Director
Carlquist at 550-5161.
Your final comment was about wetlands. The City Council has directed the
staff to collect wetlands ordinances from other communities and to research
pending state legislation on the subject and submit a report on this topic.
Thank you for attending the Town Meeting. I hope you found it to be
beneficial. Ifjlyou have questions, please call 550-5013.
Frank--floyles
Assistant City Manager
FB:kec
attachment
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
1�
PLYMOUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT
MONTHLY REPORT
MONTH Jan - Dec 1989
I ( -4
L...ASS
TOTALS 1988 1.895
1989 1,937 +2.2%
CLASS II
iFORGERY
COUNTERFEIT
MURDER
CSC
ROBBERY
ASSAULT
BURGLARY
THEFT
AUTO THEFT
ARSON
LIO.
LAW
0
30
6
229
353
1101
165
11
152
0
42
5
283
299
1108
185
15
TOTALS 1988 1.895
1989 1,937 +2.2%
CLASS II
iFORGERY
COUNTERFEIT
FRAUD
HAR.
COMM.
STOLEN
PROPERTY
VANDALISM
SEX
OFF.
NARC.
OFFENSES
FAM/CHILD
D.W.I.
LIO.
LAW
DISORDERLY
CONDUCT
-OTHER-
42
71
257
18
500
50
152
22
388
108
47
540
41
69
230
15
747
41
112
38
1 352
186
1 611
I
408
TOTALS 1988 2,195
1989 2,300 +4.8%
CLASS IV
SUICIDE
ATTEMPTS
is III
ANIMAL
BITES
FIRE
19
14
FATAL
ACCIDENT
PERSONAL
I INJURY
PROPERTY
DAMAGE
SNOWMOBILE
ACCIDENT
DROWNING
MEDICAL
EMERGENCY
SUICIDE
DETAIL
3
174
865
1*
0
843
7
FOUND
j 2
138
934
0
1
984
7
362
TOTALS
1988 2.301 *Fatal
1989 2,478 +7.7%
67
CLASS IV
SUICIDE
ATTEMPTS
NATURAL
DEATH
ANIMAL
BITES
FIRE
19
14
36
339
23
22
37
330
TOTALS 1988 13,187
1989 14,746 +12%
fuvzARDOUSVIOLATIONS 1988 5,342 1989 4,332 -19%
1J"1IHAZARDOUS VIOLATIONS 1988 6, 080 1989 5,257 -13.5%
1988
ANIMAL
FALSE
LOCK
ASSIST
WARRANT
TRAFFIC
SUSPICION
MISSING
LOST
PUBLIC
21,461 +9.
DOMESTIC
DETAIL
ALARMS
OUTS
AGENCY
SERVED
DETAIL
INFORMATION
PERSON
FOUND
NUISANCE
MISC.
305
1623
1499
1500
478
362
2054
1621
67
268
.1458
1952
398
1530
1697
1841
530
412
1829
1895
81
271
1344
2918
TOTALS 1988 13,187
1989 14,746 +12%
fuvzARDOUSVIOLATIONS 1988 5,342 1989 4,332 -19%
1J"1IHAZARDOUS VIOLATIONS 1988 6, 080 1989 5,257 -13.5%
1988
29%
CRIMINAL OFFENSES CLEARED
1989
23.8%
1988
19,578
TOTAL NUMBER OF INCIDENTS
1989
21,461 +9.
RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM
-"
Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear
on the town meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond
and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address and phone number, we
will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern.
NATURE OF CONCERNp/PROPERTY ADDRESS INVOLVED:
l
ACTION YOU DESIRE THE CITY TO TAKE:
NAME OF CONCERNED RESIDENT:��. ADDRESS OF OF RESIDENT: 5-¢ b .5 Mn .
PHONE NUMBER: ,5 5 3— a o d ;3
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: February 22, 1990
TO: James G. Willi City Manager
FROM: Charle ' erud, Community Development Coordinator
SUBJECT: HENNEPIN COUNTY APPLICATION FOR WASTE TRANSFER STATION (89057)
On July 23, 1989 Hennepin County made application for a Conditional Use Permit
to construct a solid waste transfer station at the northeast corner of County
Road 6 and I-494, pursuant to Section 9, Subdivision D. of the Zoning
Ordinance (Hazardous Waste Facilities Conditional Uses).
Development Review Committee review of the application commenced immediately
together with activity to retain a qualified consultant to review the
application on behalf of the City of Plymouth, as the Ordinance specifies. It
should be noted that the review by the outside consultant is at the expense of
the project applicant.
On August 29, 1989, we drafted a letter to Hennepin County reviewing 35 items
that are in need of modification; additional clarification; or additional
information. These review comments were gnly the result of review by the City
of Plymouth staff and usual retained utilities and traffic consultants.
On July 24, 1989, we advised Hennepin County that the City of Plymouth had
selected Black and Veatch, Kansas City, to be the consultant that would review
technical aspects of their application on our behalf. On August 4, 1989,
Hennepin County delivered the necessary financial deposit and authorization to
proceed with the review of the application by the outside consultant. On
August 10, 1989,,we instructed Black and Veatch to proceed with their review.
Black and Veatch completed their review and on October 18, 1989, we
transmitted a copy of the Black and Veatch report, together with a list of 34
additional design -related items requiring additions, modifications of
clarifications related to plans that had been submitted by Hennepin County for
this facility. These additional design review items were generated from the
report presented by Black and Veatch.
To date, neither our design review letter of August 29, 1989, nor our design
review letter of October 18, 1989 has been responded to by Hennepin County.
The project remains in Stage 2 of the development review process, and cannot
proceed until the applicant has provided responses we have requested.
(pl/cd/trans.sta:jw)
_
r` 1�
g
tl
ppb
gl
O
N
;.g
O
ry
�p
N
g
O
�
g
d
Op�
g
O
Og�
g
d�
•.8 r
�� •
t9
N
O N S
�'
CCC777
0
23
C
-CEOC.
61
m
�•
.W..
O
-gist
WIN 44ig:g
E °m' o�•.Qr„ oaf
31
m�p.�'at000«°'aoL 000E
Eb t"0
G�33u=•5,55�u �=��'
at—"OC 3QR�Y3 EC«°•�A
w w.9 062—
leoo, wpac«oNd�L .S. -,v40-C 4 F2a.;bra. _ WW°L«UrALLVCu z 1>1
°Ea EaL 0 - °G
le Es s ,C>'E
o O >0 ' ryy O EO
E 7 m •— O
owo
-.8 12
we ^uC»Ccnrce�''oR �•��oL �GN t�ool
ba
. •^NT•.� c . 'oO� �C'•�c�oTyou Ap'.r�EG�,srii3 •p"••N •«O L+^NCR�Oc �¢S�i o
ca ESpoo'A�o«L-`o'••.0_.ya. �«muFuE°'co=cE�^•o
�q O
e E°LEpE E0-�L.,
TcE;
co0
1og; caLowo�coAc Ea>yA? W. *p
mo�
owQnCc
SC.
E:a--
0-
vA A
.a
«
$�€ gv.'2E ■ �a�o8o«��'E�^ ■� ■`si°as ■moo>'n?
e E�.Sq•� �ws 'Oeo�.cu. z� -0
p °myy ado eE`L°b «.v" G.Ac eo
I ao�o"Ov,
ooa.
O$o°^ause
ap Fi
30�«G«L0
o.ob0
v O.d is C r OD O y 0 O %'L�ya' O •gp$� L a�•i• N'•= EO .p N C C „C.,'0'b"•
.j-2 00^�'C C ° 610 �.=+G O�"'t �C•D„C�... t,•j�otyC
Cia rmuEv.� hTS«Y�ooc�Z co offi.0•a�d'.0 �0$ffio13.. Co�.oA�0
L-Sg �a
c
cc L=aE�
AEEE -o -s ?.r
a�w E5o
cc. 0. � ^>°E os� A 0 sl O=
e000064E.� i�'i« Eo041;vu13dcr8/ ET ew
.SEE ee o E
�� eooi� ��c r =E «=°oa4•°u�o ' �� 'C6` -a1 R d oe$ °c'eoEM,�Lug= ^'--N-x�wEFE E «:81�
u�L ' u �>��c u^�x7tmp0.8 a - Re A
>=00 e.4 e.agm:�u�° o°°
:05 EMx
0 Eto .,O.d oc>.
Acu 06 a O C 1c E
0 03pA L��TGe •cpm•Q E$'yo � -u�•� �ius'C
�Av Ge6 6) N °ON
t1 �To SSuw �ii6a` � 3 3L�+7 >
•6.�E.o,oa0Ec51 C�.REmIaC..5« 4 U .9aE122-9Csi i 3.=_ 'x�
•x.
00
Veb�c.> c�aocx• 3
Cl) LO o
� g�0= &:E`0 �'�'d`0oQ Z.G. `��°��o. u_�,�•M°g °moo
F®.�.r'iII _� ■[����[,.:.��~';,.`'.�� �®� �~-.N:'• .• •• i�L^^x,, �i•.O�OL1�%. - • ^39, eeEEmea�lN�Gu>C •=YeepTu�o-w4A7L L�EO ^��y>^.�.. _o•AG>'n;��oc0j''a� �ycO ��E«e ,'E ' •H�.`+. •O •^�Nu' �°yeTU
•5 ,o> «'c`�eot?,g'_�ET� ;CTLoELooHtLo•1 .0y_ ''CCCJ p0G�5
>'Ou°�==E 9•,0QEmoE_T'>uLOe
°C�y •> E
Z'EA2.*-
C E Sc
CE 4 U
oeduQoD
o o e6 :12 OO H 60=
e a W.'CalA E CEO
C oO Oe o•C•o aT�
dyu oC
:>"ga2 wOO^L @ OA C,f10EEuao,o.g C. -5 06
G/zO.
y�mO O=p ¢.0 �^ •v•oA o
'•7 •
I
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
LOBBYING
Executive Summary
wring the 1989 legislative session, legislators expressed concern about
growing lobbying activity by local governments at the State Capitol.
Legislators were particularly concerned about the increasing use of
contract lobbyists by local governments. As a result, the Legislative Audit
Commission directed our office to conduct a study of local government lobby-
ing. This report addresses the following questions:
• What is the cost of local government lobbying activities?
• To what extent are local units of government using their own
employees for lobbying, hiring professional lobbyists on contract, or
relying on local government associations to represent their interests
at the State Capitol?
• What are the positive and negative aspects of current lobbying
activities?
• What changes in laws governing lobbyists would preserve the positive
functions of lobbying while addressing the negative aspects and
limiting the public costs?
To answer these questions, we collected information on the use of staff and
contract lobbyists by cities, counties, school districts, metropolitan area agen-
cies, and government associations. We also interviewed lobbyists and other
staff, examined lobbyists' contracts, and reviewed laws of other states.
We found that publicly -financed lobbying activities have increased markedly
over the last decade --a trend that is likely to continue. Lobbying and lobbying -
related activities by local governments and associations now cost at least $4.6
million annually, with $2.0 million of that total going to contract lobbyists.
While interaction between local officials and legislators is clearly beneficial to
the legislative process, our report identifies some potential problems with cur-
rent lobbying activities and offers some legislative options for addressing
these problems.
LOCAL GUVk K.NMMN I WIS1511lvlY
LOBBYING COSTS
In this initial attempt to measure local government lobbying costs in Minne-
sota, we collected data on staff and contract lobbying expenditures from
individual units of government, as well as the associations that also represent
their interests at the Legislature. Overall, we estimate that:
• Lobbying and lobbying -related expenditures for 1989 were
approximately $4.6 million, with slightly more than half of this
amount spent by individual government entities and the rest by
Local associations.
government
lobbying
expenditures
now exceed
$4.6 million.
1989 Local Government Lobbying
Expenditures, by Organization Type
Thousands
$a,000
62,600
M000
$1,'500
$1,000
$600
$o
scums: Program Evwmlan DMW-.
LOW Govammanb Ano Wkms
Contract
staff a OwrMad
This estimate of lobbying expenditures includes not only the cost of communi-
cating directly with legislators, but also the cost of lobbying -related activities
that provide support to a lobbying effort. These related activities include leg-
islative information gathering, research and policy development, and clerical
and administrative support.
Although we used a broad definition of lobbying -related activity, our estimate
of expenditures does not include all lobbying -related expenditures. Lobbying
by local government staff is not included if the staff person spent less than 25
percent of his or her time during the 1989 legislative session on legislative mat-
ters. Also, the estimate is reliant upon accurate reporting by local
governments and their associations. Some associations appear to have un-
derstated their lobbying -related activity. As a result, it is accurate to say that
lobbying and lobbying -related expenditures for 1989 were at least $4.6 million.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Close to half
the spending is
by cities.
� Y �
Xi
Of the $4.6 million, cities and counties spent the most in 1989, accounting for
almost three-fourths of the expenditures. Spending by cities and their associ-
ations accounts for close,to half of local government lobbying expenditures.
Payments to contract lobbyists and lobbying firms in 1989 totaled $2.0 million,
or 43 percent of lobbying expenditures. There were 84 contracts with 51 gov-
ernment entities and 12 associations. Many of these contracts were small.
The median contract amount among individual local governments was only
$14,600. In fact, contract spending is dominated by a few associations and
local government entities. The top ten users of contracts account for more
than half of all contract expenditures statewide.
Eighteen units of local government reported that they had staff that spent 25
percent of more of their time during the 1989 legislative session on legislative
matters. These 18 government entities reported 38 individual staff (or 21 full-
time equivalents), who met this threshold of legislative activity. These staff
were primarily from large cities and counties. Local expenditures on staff lob-
byists totaled $1.3 million, including estimated overhead.
GROWTH IN LOBBYING ACTIVITY
Data on lobbying expenditures comparable to those we collected are not avail-
able for years prior to 1989. However, information is available on the number
of public lobbyists registered at the Ethical Practices Board. This information
xii LOCAL GOVERNMENT LOBBYING
includes contract lobbyists representing individual governments and all lobby-
ists (contract or staff) representing government associations. Only staff
lobbyists representing individual units of government are not included.
These data show that:
The use of • There has been considerable growth in the use of contract lobbyists
contract by local governments. The number of local governments with
lobbyists has contract lobbyists tripled between 1977 and 1983 and has doubled
since 1983.
grown
dramatically
and now costs
$2 million
annually.
• The number of government associations with registered lobbyists was
relatively stable between 1977 and 1983, but has doubled since 1983.
Expenditure data available from the Ethical Practices Board show that in-
creased lobbying activity has come not only from increased numbers of public
entities with lobbyists, but also from increased spending by those already hav-
ing lobbyists. Board data indicate that:
• Lobbying expenditures by contract lobbyists and associations
representing local governments has more than doubled in just the
last four years.
• Furthermore, the vast majority of the spending growth comes from
government entities and associations that had a lobbyist over the
entire period.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Idii
These spending figures include a variety of lobbying expenditures such as the
costs of lobbying materials, media advertising, travel, and entertainment. But,
unlike our figures for 1989; these amounts do not include salaries and fringe
benefits received by lobbyists.
Among the reasons observers suggest for the growth in local government lob-
bying are: 1) an increased financial dependence of local governments on state
government aid, 2) the complexity of and frequent changes to the property tax
system and state aid formulas, 3) increased state mandates affecting local gov-
ernment finances, and 4) increased lobbying activity by public employee
unions and pension groups. Some of the increase in lobbying activity also
seems to have been spurred on by the success of those who have hired lobby-
ists and tax experts. Some local governments and associations have increased
their lobbying activities in response to the apparent success of others.
ANALYSIS
In Minnesota, there is significant interdependence between state and local
governments. Local governments depend on state aid and property tax cred-
its for a substantial share of their funding. In turn, state policymakers set
some policies and mandates for local governments to follow and depend on
local governments to implement sound programs in such areas as education,
Lobbying can transportation, and social services.
provide useful Because of this interdependence:
information
but can also be • It is important that there be good communication between the
self-serving. Legislature and local governments.
Lobbying by local governments can be beneficial to the legislative process for
the information and expertise it brings about the performance and needs of
public programs and services. Policymakers at the state level need good infor-
mation on the effect of past and pending decisions on those who operate
programs at the local level.
Of course, lobbying, whether by local governments or private interests, can be
self-serving. Lobbyists sometimes attempt to influence legislative actions
through selective use of information. The Legislature is generally able to sep-
arate good information from bad through its members' efforts, the assistance
of legislative staff, and communication with a broad array of interested par-
ties. Nevertheless, local government lobbying practices and trends raise a
number of concerns.
xiv LOCAL GOVERNMENT LOBBYING
Increased Splinter Group Activity
First:
• Much of the increased spending is going to lobbying for a larger share
• Is too much public money being spent on local government lobbying,
leaving less available for important public services or tax relief?
This is not an easy question to answer. On one hand, local government lobby-
ing costs have increased dramatically and show signs of additional growth in
the future. More lobbying and research in an attempt to secure greater state
funding for a particular group of local governments is a "zero-sum game."
That is, it does not increase the amount of money available for public spend-
ing and tax relief. It simply "robs Peter to pay Paul." A group of cities and
their citizens in one part of the state may, through its lobbying efforts, get
more state aid or tax relief; but it comes at the expense of other cities and
their citizens or other public programs. As a whole, local governments and
their citizens are worse off since the use of public funds for lobbying leaves
less money available statewide for important public services and tax relief.
On the other hand, the amount of public funds spent on local government lob-
bying, while growing, is a small fraction of overall local government spending.
In addition, the information generated by local computer tax models may
sometimes be useful in revealing unexpected changes in state funding for par-
ticular local governments.
of the state's budget.
During this last decade, there has been an increase in the number of govern-
ment associations whose primary purpose is to lobby for more state funding
for a group of local governments from a particular geographical part of the
Much of the
state. In addition, some existing associations have begun focusing their lobby -
increased
ing efforts more on the share of state aid going to their members. In addition
to lobbying, associations and large individual units of government are spend-
spending is by
ing more on computer tax models and other research to support their
splinter groups.
lobbying.
The emergence of "splinter groups" representing particular groups of cities,
counties, or school districts is understandable from the viewpoint of these
groups. Increased lobbying efforts is seen by each as a way to redress some in-
equity each group sees in the current state tax system or funding formulas.
However, the increased spending on lobbying or tax research raises an impor-
tant public policy question:
• Is too much public money being spent on local government lobbying,
leaving less available for important public services or tax relief?
This is not an easy question to answer. On one hand, local government lobby-
ing costs have increased dramatically and show signs of additional growth in
the future. More lobbying and research in an attempt to secure greater state
funding for a particular group of local governments is a "zero-sum game."
That is, it does not increase the amount of money available for public spend-
ing and tax relief. It simply "robs Peter to pay Paul." A group of cities and
their citizens in one part of the state may, through its lobbying efforts, get
more state aid or tax relief; but it comes at the expense of other cities and
their citizens or other public programs. As a whole, local governments and
their citizens are worse off since the use of public funds for lobbying leaves
less money available statewide for important public services and tax relief.
On the other hand, the amount of public funds spent on local government lob-
bying, while growing, is a small fraction of overall local government spending.
In addition, the information generated by local computer tax models may
sometimes be useful in revealing unexpected changes in state funding for par-
ticular local governments.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY X,
Contract Lobbyists
Another major concern about lobbying practices involves the growing use of
contract lobbyists. There are a number of aspects of contract lobbying that
raise questions about either the amount of public spending on lobbying or the
potential for undue influence on public policy by government bodies with so-
called "hired guns."
First:
Third, there is a small, but growing, practice among local governments of hir-
ing multiple contract lobbyists. A government body or agency divides its
lobbying work among two or three contract lobbyists who have access to legis-
lators of different parties or from different parts of the state. Sometimes, the
lobbyists are not paid by the hour, but rather receive a retainer that is inde-
pendent of the number of hours worked. The use of multiple lobbyists
combined with a retainer system is of particular concern, since it leaves the im-
pression that successful lobbying is not a matter of supplying policymakers
-with needed information but rather is something you purchase by hiring peo-
ple with all the necessary connections. In addition, use of a retainer without
an hourly accounting of time spent is a potentially wasteful practice.
LEGISLATIVE OPTIONS
There are three types of options available to the Legislature in addressing
concerns about local government lobbying:
1. adding disclosure requirements,
• Some contract lobbyists are paid at hourly rates considerably greater
than allowed for public employees.
Some contract lobbying firms receive $100 per hour or more for the lobbying
services of senior members of the firm. At the other end of the scale, there
are contract lobbyists receiving $25 to $30 per hour. In contrast, the cost of
hiring a staff lobbyist (including estimated overhead) generally runs from $30
to $50 per hour. Consequently, some, but certainly not all, contract lobbyists
receive compensation well in excess of the cost of a staff lobbyist. In addition,
Some, but not
to the best of our knowledge, a contract lobbyist charging $100 an hour or
all, contract
more costs more on an hourly basis (even after overhead costs are consid-
lobbyists are
ered) than any public employee in Minnesota.
paid more than
staff lobbyists.
Second, there is a concern that the use of contract lobbyists may permit local
to influence
governments exercise undue on public policy. Contract lobbyists
tend to be involved in entertaining legislators and making campaign contribu-
tions. Many see these practices as a means of gaining access to legislators,
though not necessarily changing their thinking.
Third, there is a small, but growing, practice among local governments of hir-
ing multiple contract lobbyists. A government body or agency divides its
lobbying work among two or three contract lobbyists who have access to legis-
lators of different parties or from different parts of the state. Sometimes, the
lobbyists are not paid by the hour, but rather receive a retainer that is inde-
pendent of the number of hours worked. The use of multiple lobbyists
combined with a retainer system is of particular concern, since it leaves the im-
pression that successful lobbying is not a matter of supplying policymakers
-with needed information but rather is something you purchase by hiring peo-
ple with all the necessary connections. In addition, use of a retainer without
an hourly accounting of time spent is a potentially wasteful practice.
LEGISLATIVE OPTIONS
There are three types of options available to the Legislature in addressing
concerns about local government lobbying:
1. adding disclosure requirements,
Zvi LOCAL GOVERNMENT LOBBYING
2. prohibiting or restricting certain practices, and
3. changing legislative posture toward excessive lobbying.
Disclosure Requirements
Public accountability is generally enhanced by requiring disclosure of lobbying
activity. There are three areas in which additional disclosure requirements
may be useful: 1) staff and contract lobbying expenditures, 2) gift disclosure,
and 3) campaign contributions by lobbyists. The Legislature just recently en-
acted disclosure requirements for local governments with staff or contract
lobbyists. The requirements were part of a rider to the tax bill passed in Sep-
tember 1989.
The new requirements, however, do not include a specific requirement for dis-
Second, current law requires lobbyists to report gifts made by them, their em-
ployers, or their employees to individual legislators or other public officials
provided that the gift equals $50 or more in value. However, local govern-
ments without a contract lobbyist are not required to report any gifts to
legislators even if they exceed $50 or more in value. In addition, it should be
pointed out that the gift reporting system is not very restrictive. Only gifts of
$50 or more per transaction must be reported. This permits a lobbyist to
make numerous gifts to a legislator even in one day without reporting them if
each gift individually is less than $50. We recommend that:
• The Legislature should consider: 1) requiring each lobbyist to report
all gifts to an individual legislator or other public official which
cumulatively exceed $50 per year, and 2) making all local
governments (including those without contract lobbyists) subject to a
similar gift disclosure requirement.
Third, there currently is concern about the extent to which contract lobbyists
representing public entities make campaign contributions. Existing law does
not require that campaign contributions of $100 or less in a year be reported
to the Ethical Practices Board. In addition, there is no information on the ex-
closure of lobbying expenditures made by government associations. Since
associations account for about half of current lobbying expenditures, this omis-
Better
sion is of significant concern. In addition, there is ambiguity regarding what
disclosure of
expenditures should be reported. For example, local governments are being
lobbying
asked to report salaries, fringe benefits, expenses, and other payments for
expenditures,
staff lobbyists. It is unclear what expenses and payments should be reported
gifts, and
and some local governments are only reporting salaries and fringe benefits.
Consequently, we recommend that:
campaign
contributions
• The Legislature should clarify and improve the new reporting system
is needed.
for local government lobbying expenditures and require disclosure of
lobbying and lobbying -related expenditures by government
associations.
Second, current law requires lobbyists to report gifts made by them, their em-
ployers, or their employees to individual legislators or other public officials
provided that the gift equals $50 or more in value. However, local govern-
ments without a contract lobbyist are not required to report any gifts to
legislators even if they exceed $50 or more in value. In addition, it should be
pointed out that the gift reporting system is not very restrictive. Only gifts of
$50 or more per transaction must be reported. This permits a lobbyist to
make numerous gifts to a legislator even in one day without reporting them if
each gift individually is less than $50. We recommend that:
• The Legislature should consider: 1) requiring each lobbyist to report
all gifts to an individual legislator or other public official which
cumulatively exceed $50 per year, and 2) making all local
governments (including those without contract lobbyists) subject to a
similar gift disclosure requirement.
Third, there currently is concern about the extent to which contract lobbyists
representing public entities make campaign contributions. Existing law does
not require that campaign contributions of $100 or less in a year be reported
to the Ethical Practices Board. In addition, there is no information on the ex-
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY xvii
tent to which lobbyists solicit campaign contributions from others and present
them to legislators. We suggest that:
• The Legislature should consider requiring lobbyists to report all
their campaign contributions annually.
• The Legislature should also consider requiring lobbyists to report on
their activity in soliciting campaign contributions from others.
Regulation
Additional disclosure requirements help by making information on lobbying
costs public but may not significantly change the lobbying practices of local
governments. Consequently, the Legislature may wish to consider placing re-
strictions or prohibitions on certain lobbying practices. There are three
regulatory areas which the Legislature may wish to consider: 1) restrictions
on contract lobbying, 2) limitations on gifts and entertainment expenditures,
and 3) regulation of fund-raising activity during the legislative session.
The options for regulating lobbying include:
• prohibiting local governments from hiring contract lobbyists,
However, prohibiting contract lobbying is not likely to have a significant im-
pact on lobbying expenditures and may have some disadvantages. Local
governments and associations with contract lobbyists are not likely to discon-
tinue their lobbying activities. Instead, they will most likely use staff lobbyists
to represent their interests at the Legislature. Those associations with large
contracts for computer tax research and lobbying services could continue to
contract for the research and hire staff to do the lobbying.
For smaller governmental units, contracts have been an efficient way of ob-
taining lobbying services on an as -needed basis without increasing permanent
staff. Eliminating contracts may make it difficult for smaller local govern-
ments to compete with larger units of government whose scale of operation
makes it possible to employ lobbyists on staff.
• placing a cap on the hourly rate that can be paid for contract
lobbyists, or
There are
• requiring an open and competitive process prior to the hiring of a
several options
contract lobbyist.
for regulating
An outright prohibition on contract lobbying would have certain advantages
contract
such as lessening the potential for undue influence of lobbyists on public pol-
activity.
icy. It may also restrict lobbying costs in those instances in which large
contracts are currently used.
However, prohibiting contract lobbying is not likely to have a significant im-
pact on lobbying expenditures and may have some disadvantages. Local
governments and associations with contract lobbyists are not likely to discon-
tinue their lobbying activities. Instead, they will most likely use staff lobbyists
to represent their interests at the Legislature. Those associations with large
contracts for computer tax research and lobbying services could continue to
contract for the research and hire staff to do the lobbying.
For smaller governmental units, contracts have been an efficient way of ob-
taining lobbying services on an as -needed basis without increasing permanent
staff. Eliminating contracts may make it difficult for smaller local govern-
ments to compete with larger units of government whose scale of operation
makes it possible to employ lobbyists on staff.
:viii LOCAL GOVERNMENT LOBBYING
Restrictions on
gifts and
campaign
fund-raisers
would help
regulate
lobbying
activity.
Instead of prohibiting contracts, the Legislature could set a maximum hourly
rate on lobbying contracts. The advantages of this approach are that it: (1)
could limit lobbying expenditures to a reasonable hourly rate consistent with
the limits the state sets for public employees, and (2) would permit smaller
units of government to contract for lobbying services when it is efficient to do
so. Opponents of a rate cap would maintain, however, that a rate cap would
prevent them from hiring the most qualified lobbyists.
A third option would be to require local governments and associations to un-
dertake an open solicitation of proposals from contract lobbyists prior to
hiring one. Local governments would not be required to accept the low bid
but would have the advantage of receiving proposals from several lobbyists
who would feel some pressure to compete for the contract and, as a result,
may offer more competitive rates and contractual terms to local governments.
The potential drawback to such a requirement is that it could create
paperwork and delay without financial benefits if local governments did not
implement the requirement in a sincere manner.
There are no easy answers or clear solutions regarding the regulation of con-
tract lobbying. The Legislature needs to examine the data in this report on
current lobbying contracts and consider the various options for regulating con-
tractual activity.
In addition, we recommend that:
• The Legislature should clarify the intent of Minn. Stat. §15.057
regarding the hiring of contract lobbyists by state agencies.
We are not aware of any state agencies currently using public funds for a con-
tract lobbyist and do not see any need for them to do so. However, it is only a
state administrative policy that prevents contracts for lobbying services. The
current statutory provision is somewhat ambiguous and exempts certain state
agencies.
Other regulatory measures include more restrictive laws on the making of
gifts from local governments, or lobbyists in general, to legislators and other
state officials. Several states have enacted laws that restrict the amount of
gifts (including entertainment expenses) that can be made by a lobbyist's em-
ployer or the lobbyist over a specified period of time. Such a provision would
help to limit the extent to which lobbyists attempt to influence policy in ways
that are not appropriate. We recommend that:
• The Legislature should consider limiting the amount of gifts that a
lobbyist or the lobbyist's employer or employees can make to a
legislator or other public official during a year.
• The Legislature should also consider prohibiting a legislator or other
public official from accepting gifts from a lobbyist or the lobbyist's
employer or employees totaling more than a specified amount in one
year.
g
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In addition, we recommend that:
• The Legislature should consider prohibiting legislative fund-raisers
during a legislative session.
This restriction may also help to regulate lobbying behavior.
Legislative Posture
Ax
Adopting this sort of legislative posture toward excessive lobbying would not
be easy. There is often considerable pressure on legislators from constituents
who want their legislator to obtain more funding for their part of the state.
Although not an easy task, an appropriate legislative posture toward excessive
lobbying would be perhaps the most effective way to limit local government
lobbying activities.
V �iltJtyelL : •cv�r..�.� �'i �ix�%L a�[.Gc.s.cox f�ttcl� h�
-.e
A final option for addressing concerns about lobbying costs and practices is
for legislators to indicate their displeasure with certain lobbying practices
through their reception to those lobbyists' interests. For example, this might vpl"4
Stability in
mean not rewarding those local governments who hire contract lobbyists
state aid
when staff lobbyists would be less expensive, those who seek special legisla-
formulas would
bon when a general policy is more appropriately pursued through a
help to limit
government association, or those who make it difficult for the Legislature to
lobbying
establish equitable tax policy and funding formulas. In addition, the Legisla-
ture could promote stability in the tax system and funding formulas -- thus
activity.
discouraging local governments from continuously lobbying for a greater
share of the state's tax revenues.
Adopting this sort of legislative posture toward excessive lobbying would not
be easy. There is often considerable pressure on legislators from constituents
who want their legislator to obtain more funding for their part of the state.
Although not an easy task, an appropriate legislative posture toward excessive
lobbying would be perhaps the most effective way to limit local government
lobbying activities.
V �iltJtyelL : •cv�r..�.� �'i �ix�%L a�[.Gc.s.cox f�ttcl� h�
-.e
_ ` \ K
u LOCAL GOVERNMENT LOBBYING
Table 1.5: Staff and Contract Lobbying Expenditures for Local
Government Entities, 1989
Government Entity
Contract
• Total
City of Minneapolis
$345,082
$444,000
$389,082
Hennepin County Board of Commissioners
203,105
73,751
276,856
City of St. Paul
142,150
89,540
231,690
Ramsey County Board of Commissioners
117,762
30,500
148,262
Metropolitan Airports Commission
48,790
65,000
113,790
Metropolitan Council
93,665
0
93,665
Anoka County Board of Commissioners
44,278
38,554
82,832
City of Brooklyn Park
80,257
0
80,257
St. Louis County Board of Commissioners
38,273
26,000
64,273
Anoka/Hennepin Independent School District X11
0
60,758
60,758
Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission
0
60,000
60,000
Dakota County Board of Commissioners
0
56,500
56,500
St. Paul Port Authority
28,620
23,000
51,620
St. Paul Public Schools
0
45,732
45,732
City of Bloomington
11,375
34,000
45,375
Regional Transit Board
20,580
24,260
44,840
Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority
0
42,493
42,493
Scott County Board of Commissioners
0
42,000
42,000
Washington County Board of Commissioners
38,150
0
38,150
Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board
0
36,550
36,550
City of Moorhead
13,762
20,046
33,808
Minneapolis Public Schools
0
32,500
32,500
Duluth Public Schools
31,373
0
31,373
City of Duluth
0
30,000
30,000
City of Coon Rapids
0
27,715
27,715
City of Blaine
0
25,671
25,671
Seaway Port Authority of Duluth
11,900
9,000
20,900
Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District
0
20,000
20,000
Washington County Housing Redevelopment Authority
0
19,414
19,414
City of Luverne
0
16,628
16,628
Metropolitan Transit Commission
16,449
0
16,449
Olmsted County Board of Commissioners
15,849
0
15,849
City of St. Louis Park
0
14,583
14,583
City of Corcoran
0
13,500
13,500
City of St. Peter
0
10,000
10,000
City of Eden Prairie
0
10,000
10,000
City of Fergus Falls
0
9,577
9,577
Northeast Intermediate School District 916
0
7,946
7,946
City of Anoka
0
7,863
7,863
Minnesota State High School League
0
6,000
6,000
Sherburne County Board of Commissioners
0
6,000
6,000
ESV Region IV Computer Service Cooperative
0
5,429
5,429
ESV Region VI Computer Service Cooperative (Metro II)
0
5,429
5,429
ESV Region VII Computer Service Cooperative (TIES)
0
5,400
5,400
ESV Region V Computer Service Cooperative
0
5,400
5,400
ESV Region I Computer Service Cooperative
0
5,400
5,400
ESV Region II Computer Service Cooperative
0
5,400
5,400
ESV Region III Computer Service Cooperative
0
5,291
5,291
City of Long Lake
0
5,000
5,000
Otsego Township
0
3,866
3,866
'f.
LOBBYING EXPENDITURES 13
Table 1.5, continued
Government Entity
Hennepin Soil & Water Conservation District
Brooklyn Center School District #286
City of Worthington
City of Bemidji
City of Ham Lake
City of Lake Elmo
City of Roseville
,off*
Contract
Total
$ 0
$ 2,910
$ 2,910
0
2,883
2,883
0
2,250
2,250
0
1,865
1,865
0
780
780
0
487
487
_0
367
367
Totals $1,301,418 $1,137,238 $2,438,656
Source: Program Evaluation Division surveys.
*Includes estimated overhead at 40 percent of reported salaries and benefits.
their time during the 1989 legislative session on legislative matters. These 18
government entities reported 38 individual staff (or 21 full-time equivalent
staff) who met this threshold of legislative activity. These staff are primarily
from large cities and counties. In fact:
• The top five users of staff lobbyists and related staff account for
about two-thirds of staff expenditures by individual local
governments.
Contract activity is somewhat more dispersed. There were 51 government en-
tities with 65 contracts.5 The median amount of contract payments by a
government entity was only about $14,600 --indicating there were quite a few
small contracts. The top five users of contracts accounted for less than one-
third of contract expenditures by individual local governments.
Lobbying and lobbying -related expenditures by government associations were
5 Eleven government entities had multiple contracts. Tltese eleven had 25 contracts and accounted for
37 percent of contract spending.
6 Contract activity appears to be more dispersed than staff lobbyist activity. However, this may be a re-
sult of using a threshold method of staff activity. Local governments were not required to report payments
to off who spent less than 25 percent of their time during the legislative session on legislative matters.
approximately $2.2 million in 1989. This total includes $860,000 in payments
to contract lobbyists and lobbying firms. The remaining $1.3 million includes
staff and overhead expenditures on legislative -related activities.
Splinter
Table 1.6 provides details on lobbying and lobbying -related expenditures re-
groups spend
ported to us by government associations. About 57 percent of association
more than the
spending is by cities, with school districts and counties accounting for most of
umbrella
the remainder. The three umbrella organizations that represent cities, coun-
assOciations.
ties, and school districts statewide account for about 38 percent of association
expenditures. Splinter groups that represent local governments from certain
geographic parts of the state now account for most of the remaining expendi-
5 Eleven government entities had multiple contracts. Tltese eleven had 25 contracts and accounted for
37 percent of contract spending.
6 Contract activity appears to be more dispersed than staff lobbyist activity. However, this may be a re-
sult of using a threshold method of staff activity. Local governments were not required to report payments
to off who spent less than 25 percent of their time during the legislative session on legislative matters.
14 LOCAL GOVERNMENT LOBBYING
Table 1.6: Lobbying and Lobbying -Related Expenditures by Government
Associations, 1989
Lobbying and Percent
Lobbying -Related Total Lobbying -
Association Expenditures Expenditures l Related
League of Minnesota Cities
$414,434
$2,407,983
17%
Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities
379,280
379,443
100
Minnesota School Boards Association
240,316
1,244,018
19
Metropolitan Inter -County Association
199,245
332,075
60
Association of Minnesota Counties
175,465
1,611,309
11
Association of Metropolitan School Districts
158,480
187,581
84
Association of Metropolitan Municipalities
137,771
227,185
61
Municipal Legislative CommissiT
107,600
146,494
73
North Metro Mayors Association
99,471
99,471
100
Association of Stable or Growing School Districts
80,695
219,249
37
Minnesota Association of Townships
45,800
630,000
7
Minnesota Association of Small Cities
44,474
44,474
100
Minnesota Association of Urban Counties
35,839
71,677
50
Range Association of Municipalities & Schools
26,118
94,750
28
Minnesota Rural Education Association
20,000
80,000
25
Minnesota Association of Regional Commissions
17,930
17,930
100
Arrowhead Counties Association
14,463
14,463
100
Ramsey County League of Local Governments
4,143
16,572
25
Minnesota Association of Local Housing Finance Agencie?
3,344
3,344
100
Minnesota Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts
3.173
159.907
2
Totals
$2,208,032
$7,987,925
28%
By Association Type:
Lobbying and
Lobbying -Related
Expenditures
Percent
Municipal
$1,259,091
57%
County
425,003
19
School
499,491
23
Other
24.447
1
Totals
$2,208,032
100%
'A total of $206,712 in litigation -related expenses are included in total expenditures but not in lobbying -related expenditures. This total
includes expenditures of $138,554 by the Association of Stable or Growing School Districts, $38,894 by the Municipal Legislative Com-
mission, $29,101 by the Association of Metropolitan School Districts, and $163 by the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities. Although
these expenditures were not made for lobbying -related purposes as we defined them, they were made for the purpose of suing the state
over the equity of state funding mechanisms (or for defending existing funding formulas). Consequently, they could be considered leg-
islative -related expenditures.
2The figures exclude an economic development/marketing budget of $154,814 for 1989.
31he figures exclude privately -financed expenditures of $9,645.
2/16/90
Memorandum
To: Fellow council members
From: Kim Bergman/Mayor
As you recall, we have directed the city manager to bring before us his
recommended appointment for city attorney for our March 5th counclI
meeting. I have met with our city attorney and have discussed my
concerns, and you certainly may do so. I ask that you all follow up on the
proposals that have been submitted, and those that our city manager
brings forward.
Best. Regards.
KING VIDEO ABLE CCHPANY
Question icy can't I get MSC?
Answer King Videocable Company is currently negotiating to cat MSC on !
its cable television systems. Unfortunately, negotiations have
not been successful.
Question fiat's the holdup?
Answer Choice. King Videocable Company thinks customers should be able
to choose whether or not they want to watch MSC and pay for it.
Because of MSC 's high price, customers who don't want to pay,
should not be forced to.
If customers want to watch and pay for only part of the year, they
should be able to. Some people want to watch baseball, some
people hockey, others want basketball. As a discretionary service
customers pay for what they want, when they want it.
4uesticn Rio wants to watch MSC anyway?
Answer Our market research indicates that approximately 30% of our
customers want to watch MSC. We don't believe that the other 70%
should have to pay for it if they don't want the channel.
Question But I don't watch all the channels on my cable service now, I
probably pay for some channels that other people watch, don't I?
Answer You don't pay this much. MSC is demanding more than five times
the cost of the average Basic service. At prices like that, not
all cable customers can afford to subsidize MSC. King Videocable
Company believes that only those customers who want to watch MSC
should have to pay for it.
COST OF MSC & AVERAGE BASIC CHANNEL
$0.43
=0.40
$0,20
$0.10
loco ,
10.08
Question All I want to watch is Twins baseball, why can't I just'get that?
r�aer MSC says no. MSC wants all customers to pay for all progranmung
twelve months of the year. King Videocable wants to give cable
customers the option of paying for one month or several months,
one sports season (baseball, hockey, or basketball) or all sports
seasons. The custamer should decide when they are willing to pay
for the channel, not MSC, not King Videocable Company.
Question How much will MSC cost in the future?
Answer The MSC rate card is as follows:
$0.80
$0.70
$0.60
$0.50
$0.40
$0.30
So.2a
$0.10
$000
MSC COST PER YEAR
1996 1991 1992 1993
This represents substantial planned increases annually, and
there's no quarantee that MSC will keep its existing program
schedule. If they drop same of their current programs, customers
should be free to drop the service.
CAJ
But what if the teams are doing poorly?
Answer If MSC is carried as a Basic service, all customers would continue
to pay all year around. Only as a discretionary channel would
customers pay when they wanted to. If the teams are doing well,
many custaners will sign up. If they do poorly, no one should be
forced to continue to pay.
nest' But I wouldn't mind paying for MSC.
Answer Then you should have that choice. But people who don't want to
pay for it, should not be forced to.
uestioai Everyone pays for ESPN don't they?
Answer True, but remember ESPN is a national service with coverage of the
best national, regional, and local sporting events. Recently,
ESPN carried three Gopher basketball games in the space of ten
days. They did so because the Gophers were playing well and on a
winning streak. As a result, the games were exciting and of
interest to college basketball fans. If a particular team is not
winning, ESPN will not carry that event but will substitute a more
exciting game in its place.
MSC's coverage will be exciting when the teams it carries are
winning. Many customers will want the games and might be willing
to pay for them. If so, they could order them by phone and have a
charge placed on their cable television account. If the teams are
losing, it would be just as easy to have the service (and the
charge) eliminated.
If MSC has their way, the customer will have no choice. The
charge will be assessed against all customers, all year around,
whether people like it or not.
uestiaai This all sounds great, but how much are you asking me to pay for
MSC.
Answer It depends on the royalty fee charged by WCOD. King Videocable
Campany is willing to carry MSC with a retail price a little more
than the rate paid to WCOO.
Question Does MSC charge all cable customers the same price?
Answer No. Representatives of NSC have told us that their rates vary
both in the Twin Cities metro area and in outstate Minnesota.
Same coummities apparently pay as little as $.13 per customer per
month. Others pay the rate card price of $.45.
According to newspaper accounts, WC00 actually another local
broadcaster (Channel #29) to carry a certain number of Twins
games. We don't understand why WOOD asks cable customers to pay
for some games while paying other progrwn providers to carry other
games. We think all viewers should be treated the same.
Ouestiaai Will MSC and WCOO be here in the future?
Answer Who )mows? Last year WCOO tried unsuccessfully to sell their
coapany. No one was interested in paying the asking price. By
next year, a new owner could raise NSC prices even higher. Given
that possibility, customers should be able to say no to the higher
costs and disconnect the service if they choose.
Question What about Prime Sports Network?
Answer King Videocable Company recently invested in this new service to
offer our customers new and varied sports programming. prime
Sports Network will be offered as a channel. only
customers who are interested in the program ung and are willing to
pay a monthly fee will receive the service.
oast' on So where do we go from here?
Answer Contact WCCO by telephone and write them letters. Tell them you
want MSC and are willing to pay for it but that you don't feel all
customers should be forced to pay. Tell them you nay change your
mind in six months, decide you don't want to pay, and want the
option of cancelling service at that time. You can reach them at:
WC00
11th On The Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 339-4444
,i
k
CITY OF
PLYMOUTH
February 16, 1990
City Desk
Star Tribune
425 Portland Ave. S.
Mpls., MN 55488
SUBJECT: PUBLIC MEETINGS LISTING
Please include the following meetings in your listing of Public Meetings:
Monday, February 26
Plymouth City Council -- Study Session on Senior Citizen Housing, 4:30 p.m.,
Council Conference Room, Plymouth City Center, 3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth Forum, 6:30 p.m., Council Conference Room, Plymouth City Center
Regular Council Meeting, 7 p.m., Council Chambers, Plymouth City Center
Wednesday, February 28
Plymouth Planning Commission -- 7:30 p.m., Council Chambers, Plymouth City
Center, 3400 Plymouth Blvd.
If you have any questions, please contact me at 550-5016.
Sincerely,
Helen LaFave
Communications Coordinator
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000
Mary
tZ e.; 1�4 oL
c&�-
a� �uc�� tivr�v
C�GrrO'Lc-ems .I� �
f
CITY C�
PLYMOUTH+
February 16, 1990
Dolly Reveling
14820 31st Ave. N
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Dolly:
This letter is to confirm our phone conversation of Friday, February 16. On
behalf of the youth baseball associations, we would like to request a permit
from the West Medicine Lake Community Club for the use of your two ball fields
on Monday through Thursday nights from May 14 through July 27. The fields
will be used for youth baseball games and/or practices. The City of Plymouth
would like to make some improvements to the facilities first thing this
spring. Some new sod and seed on the infields and outfields to make them in
better playable condition is the first thing we'd look at. We will also add
any infield material to bring that back to first class condition.
Thank you for your time and interest in this matter. We look forward to
working with the club to provide the youth of our community a fun summer
activity. If you would like to talk with me further about this matter, I may
be reached at 550-5131.
Sincerely,
S, ,� P/<,
Erick J. Blank
Director of Parks and Recreation
EB: ds
cc: Rick Busch
Mark Peterson
'ZJames G. Willis
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
J
r
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: February 21, 1990
TO: Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manager
FROM: Joe Ryan, Building Official
SUBJECT: THOMAS BALKINS, 28TH AND EVERGREEN LANE NORTH
Building Inspector Bill Tonn visited the above referenced property based on
the inquiry received from Councilmember Zitur.
Bill's findings revealed two piles of dirt located along the edge of the
shoreline. In addition, approximately 10-12 piles have been driven into the
lake which appear to be used for the construction of a dock. Bill issued a
correction notice with the contractor to move the piles of dirt further back
onto the property by March 1, 1990.
The DNR's office also inspected the property, and has advised me that the
installation of the pilings will require the issuance of a permit from their
office, and that the piles of dirt will need to be removed from the shoreline.
Their office will be sending a letter to the property owner identifying these
two items, a copy of which will be provided to me.
I have contacted the property owner who intends to comply with the City's
order as provided for in his letter of February 14, 1990 which is attached.
Please see me should you have any further questions.
cc: File
(bu/j r/balkins:tw)
R
� ro
FEB C 119r
February 14, 1990
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
Attn: Joe Ryan
This letter is in regards to the landfill problem at
2870 N. Evergreen Lane. We seem to be having a problem with
the City of Plymouth due to the fact that we have excavated
the foundation and put the fill temporarily near our
lake property.
We plan on completing the excavation in the first week of March,
and at that time, the fill should be completely removed from
the area. Meanwhile, we feel safe with the fact that the
land is frozen, so there should be no problem with the lakeshore.
If for some reason the excavataion is not complete in the
first week of March, we will install a silt fence until the
excavation is complete.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Tom Balkins
(612) 559-7786