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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 06-22-2001Dummy 1. 2. NNE 229 2001 COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE: TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 6:30 PM TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 7: 00 PM TUESDAY, JULY 10, 7: 00 PM SATURDAY, JUNE 23, 9:15 AM 3. MONDAY, JUNE 25, 7:00 PM 4. S. rl 7. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 7: 00 PM WEDNESDAY, JULY 4 THURSDAY, JUL Y5, 5:15 PM MONDAY, JULY 9, 7. 00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING: TOUR OF NEW BUSES, in front of City Hall. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers MUSIC IN PLYMOUTH 5k FUN R UN, Plymouth City Center Amphitheater YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL, Medicine Lake Room. Agenda is attached. (M-3) PLYMOUTHADVISOR Y COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT (PACT), Bass Lake Room. Agenda is attached. (M-5) INDEPENDENCE DAY HOLIDAY City Offices closed MUSIC IN PLYMOUTH, City Center Amphitheater YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL, Medicine Lake Room 8. THURSDAY, JULY 12, 7. 00 PM PARK & RECREATIONADVISORY COMMISSION (PRAC), Council Chambers CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO Page 2 June 22, 2001 9. A List of future Regular Council Meeting agenda items is attached (M-10) 10. June, July, and August Calendars are attached (M -I1) 1. NERSARTICLES, RELEASES, PUBLICATIONS, ETC. a) Memo from League of Minnesota Cities regarding the potential State budget shutdown. (I -1a) b) Guest column submitted to the Sun Sailor from Human Rights Commissioners Nwamaka Ejebe and Patty Ple–Plakon. (I -Ib) c) ICMA Newsletter news item about the Plymouth Fire Department Duty Crew Program. (I -1c) d) Notice of MetroEnvironment regional meeting on June 26, 7:30 AM at the Minnesota Science Museum. (I -1d) e) Packet for the Highway 55 Coalition June 29 meeting, including minutes from previous meetings. (I -1e) f} Invitation to the Housing Minnesota community sector organizational meeting on June 26, including an invitation to Mayor Tierney from Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton. (I -1,t) g) Minnesota Monthly Magazine list of top picnic sites highlighting Parkers Lake Park. (I -1g) h) Notice from Prudential Financial of the pending lay–off of 30 employees at the Plymouth facility. (I -1h) i) Minnesota Planning article focusing on issues surrounding Internet voting. (I-1 i) Z MINUTES a) Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission May 10 meeting. (I -2a) 3. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS POLICY—CORRESPONDENCE a) Letter from Kathleen Due–Lund regarding service from Laidlaw Transit. The letter has been forwarded to Acting Transit Coordinator George Bentley for a response. (I -3a) A summary report on 2001 correspondence is attached. (I--3) 4. CORRESPONDENCE a) Customer Service Response form from Al and Rolly Heitkamp regarding Sara Mittelstaedt. (I -4a) CITY COUNCIL INFORMA TION MEMO June 22, 2001 S. LEGISLATIVE ITEMS a) League of Minnesota Cities Friday FAX. (I -5a) b) Association of Metropolitan Municipalities AMM FAX News. (I -Sb) c) Suburban Transit Association Legislative Report. (I -Sc) Page 3 )1-3 YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL MONDAY, JUNE 259 2001,7:00 P.M. MEDICINE LAKE ROOM AGENDA 1. Action and Discussion Items a. Approve minutes from June 11 meeting b. Receive update on Coffee house/Youth center proposal c. Designate subcommittees for 2001-2002 d. Plan parade vehicle for Plymouth on Parade e. Review League of Minnesota Cities Conference Activities f. Future agenda topics 2. Additional materials in your packet a. Calendars for July, August, and September b. Sun Post news article about coffeehouse in Champlin c. Letter to Mayor Tierney from Mike Maddox in support of a coffeehouse Next Meeting: Monday, July 9, 7:00 PM, Medicine Lake Room DATE: June 22, 2001 TO: Members of the Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit FROM: George Bentley, Acting Transit Administrator SUBJECT: June 27, 2001 MEETING The Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit is scheduled to hold its monthly meeting on WEDNESDAY, June 27, 2001 at 7:00 p.m. in the Bass Lake Room (lower level of Plymouth City Hall, opposite end of the hall from the Engineering Department). The agenda for the meeting is as follows: (Please note some materials will be distributed at the meeting.) I. Approval of Agenda. II. Approval of minutes of April 25, 2001 (attached). III. Accept minutes of May 23, 2001 (attached) IV. Ridership Information and Review of Ridership Statistics for May, 2001 (information will be distributed at the meeting). V. Identification of areas of concern and/or recommendations. VI. Review and approval of Five Year Capital Needs Plan (attached). VII. Review and approval of revised Business Marketing Plan (attached). VIII. Fare increase scheduled for July 1, 2001 (attached). IX. Service changes effective September 29, 2001 (attached). X. 2002 Plymouth Metrolink service plan (attached). XI. 2001 Customer Survey (to be distributed at the meeting). (Continued on next page) DA MP\062701.doc XII. Transit Administrator's Report: A. Legislative update. B. Service for day after Thanksgiving. C. Capital projects update. D. Complaint log. XIII. Other comments and adjournment cc: Paul Colton, Metropolitan Council; Paul Buherin and Jim Baldwin, Laidlaw Transit Services, Inc., Steve Mahowald, Jeff Wostrel and Joanne Smith, Metro Transit; Dan Faulkner NOTE: Please call George Bentley at 763-509-5521 if you are unable to attend. DATE GIM2701.dw M -1a Tentative Schedule for City Council Non -Consent Agenda Items July 10 • Elm Creek Interceptor Route • Recognition of Youth Town Forum Subcommittee members • Approve plans for Plymouth Blvd. improvements, including parking bump -outs and resurfacing • Receive report on Hydraulic and Hydrology Study for Northwest Plymouth Approve Reguiding and Rezoning of certain properties to achieve consistency between the newly updated Land Use Guide Plan and the City's Zoning Map, as required by Minnesota Statutes 473.865. City of Plymouth. (2001042) July 24 • Hearing on Plymouth Marketplace Senior Housing Revenue Bonds M-,) OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS June 2001 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Jul 2001 1 2 May 2001 S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 31 3 4 S 6 7 8 9 5:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING: ST. PHILIP THE DEACON LUTHERAN CHURCH, 17205 Co. Rd. 6 7:00 PM PLANNING COMMISSION, Council Chambers 7:00 PM HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION - Medicine Lake ROOM 6:30 PM MEDICINE LAKE WATERSHED (EQC) SUB -COMMITTEE, Medicine Lake Room 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 7:00 PM YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL, Medicine Lake ROOM 5:30 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING: MEET PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR CANDIDATES; TABLE LIQUOR ISSUES DISCUSSION, Public Safety Training Room 5:30 PM EQC, Doolittle's Air Cafe (meeting continues at 7:00 PM in Council 7:00 PM PRAC, Council Chambers Flag Day Chambers) 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 7:00 PM 7:00 PM HRA - 9:15 AM MUSIC IN PLANNING Medicine Lake PLYMOUTH 5k COMMISSION, Room RUN Council Chambers LEAGUE OF MINNESOTA CITIES ANNUAL CONFERENCE, Duluth DECC 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 7:00 PM YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL, 7:30 AM LOCAL BUSINESS COUNCIL, Radisson Hotel 7:00 PM PACT - Bass Lake Room Medicine Lake Room 6:30 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING TO TOUR NEW BUSES, in front of City Hall 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers modified on 6/21/2001 M- (l OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS July 2001 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 INDEPENDENCE 5 PM MUSIC DAY - City Offices PLYMOUTH, Closed City Center !Amphitheater 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 7:00 PM YOUTH 7:00 PM 7:00 PM PRAC, ADVISORY REGULAR Council COUNCIL, COUNCIL Chambers Medicine Lake MEETING, Council Room Chambers 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 7:00 PM 7:00 PM HRA - 9:00 AM PLANNING Medicine Lake STEWARDS COMMISSION, Room FOR Council Chambers 7:00 PM PUBLIC GREENING TIRE & SAFETY TROWEL ADVISORY BOARD, Police TOUR, depart Dept. Library from PI mouth y Creek Center 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 7:30 AM LOCAL BUSINESS 7:00 PM PACT - Bass Lake Room COUNCIL, Radisson Hotel 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers 29 30 31 Jun 2001 Aug 2001 S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 1 2 3 4 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 31 modified on 6/21/2001 M, fl OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS August 2001 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Jul 2001 Sep 2001 S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 1 7:00 PM PLANNING COMMISSION, 2 7:00 PM HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION - 3 4 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Council Chambers Medicine Lake Room 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 7:00 PM YOUTH 7:00 PM EQC, 7:00 PM PRAC, ADVISORY Council Council COUNCIL, Medicine Lake Chambers Chambers Room 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM HRA - REGULAR PLANNING Medicine Lake COUNCIL COMMISSION, Room MEETING, Council Chambers Council Chambers 7:00 PM PUBLIC SAFETY ADVISORY BOARD, Police Dept. Library 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 7:00 PM PACT - Bass Lake Room 7:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING. TOPICS: (1) South Shore Drive safety improvements, (2) Liquor issues, (3) Second-hand smoke, (4) Set future study sessions, Police Training Room 26 27 28 29 30 31 7:30 AM LOCAL BUSINESS COUNCIL, Radisson Hotel 7:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING: 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers BUDGET STUDY SESSION, Police Training Room modified on 6/21/2001 Jun 19 2001 15:12:57 Via Fax -> 61Z+589+5868 Administrator Page 081 Of 804 y 145 University Avenue West, St. Paul, MN 55103-2044 L ,14.0"lG Crr�•, Phone: (651) 281-1200 - (800) 925-1122 ,,y,:�Itil�m.x TDD (651) 281-1290 LMC Fax: (651) 281.1299 LMCIT Fax: (651) 281.1298 Web Site: http://www.imnc.org MEMORANDUM To: City Manager, Administrators and Clerks From: James F. Miller Re: Potential State Budget Shutdown Date: June 19, 2001 The Minnesota Legislature adjourned at midnight on May 21, 2001 without reaching an agreement to appropriate money to fund operations of state government for the biennium that begins on July 1, 2001. Under the Minnesota Constitution, funds from the state treasury cannot be expended by an agency unless the Legislature has made an appropriation. Although the Legislature is continuing to exchange and discuss budget proposals, unless it agrees to appropriate money for state government operations in the next 21/z weeks, non-critical operations of state agencies may be forced to cease effective July 1, 2001. If this occurs, state employees of non-critical operations cannot report to work until an appropriation has been secured. The implications of a state shutdown could extend beyond the state to counties and cities. The Commissioner of Revenue distributed a memo to all local units of government about the implications of the budget impasse. The major message in that memo is to proceed to plan for 2002 as if current law• will not be changed. However, issues remain about how to plan for the remainder of 2001 and 2002. Current law does not anticipate a state shutdown and we have never had to consider the implications of such an event. Listed below are several issues that you should consider as you prepare for your city's operations in the short term. Please note that state agencies have not finalized their plans for a shutdown and that some of these potential implications may be avoided if certain aspects of state operations are deemed essential and thus are not shut down. Although we continue to believe that a state shutdown is not likely, cities should begin making plans for such an event. Potential Impacts Delay in the distribution of 2001 st.Rte aid payments—Although the LGA and HACA formulas Jun 19 Z001 15:13:Z9 Via Fax -> 61Z+589+5868 Administrator Page OOZ Of 004 are open and standing appropriations that do not need specific legislative action this year, a state shutdown could affect the distribution. City LGA and HACA are paid on or around July 20. If a state shutdown occurs, the Departments of Revenue and Finance will not have the personnel necessary to distribute the payments. The statewide total of these two programs is approximately 5600 million, 5.300 million of which v,,ould otherwise be distributed in July. Consider the implications on your reserves and cash flow needs if your LGA and HACA were delayed. Cities faced with potential cash flow concerns should be aware that state law provides a couple of short-term financing tools that cities may want to consider using. In particular, Minn. Stat. Sec. 412.271, subd. 3, authorizes statutory city treasurers to mark city checks "not paid for want of funds." Once funds become available the treasurer can pay the checks in the order originally issued. Charter cities may find similar authority in their charters. In addition to marking checks not paid for want of funds," statutory and charter cities, under Minn. Stat. Secs. 412.261 and 410.325, may borrow money to pry current expenses by issuing tax anticipation certificates. While strictly speaking only charter cities can issue these certificates in "anticipation of state aids," statutory cities may want to consider their use in anticipation of receipt of fall tax payments. Because both these financing tools are subject to a number of conditions and limitations, cities should consult with their city attorney and/or financial advisor before using them Delay in the certification of pay 2002 state aid payments—Cities need to know the level of funding in state aid programs in order to establish their budgets and set their property tax levies. Assuming current law state aid levels could be problematic given that the preliminary levy that must be set by September 15 effectively becomes a self-imposed levy maximum. You may want to assume that HACA will be eliminated and that your levy will need to be increased to cover the lost revenues. Both the House and Senate proposals include significant increases in LGA, but at this time, it is probably safest to assume that the 2001 amount will be available next year. Delay in the certification of pay 2002 levy limits—The House bill includes two years of levy limits, beginning with the levies set this fall for payment in 2002. The Senate and the Governor have apparently agreed to levy limits. However, you may not have notice of the amount of your levy limit. As suggested by the Revenue Commissioner, it is probably best to proceed as if current law is in place. Delay in the Distribution of Municipal State Aid—The Legislature must biennially appropriate the distributions for Municipal State Aid (MSA). The MSA money is divided into maintenance and construction accounts. The next maintenance payment would be made to cities over 5,000 around the 201h of July. The Department of Transportation (DOT) estimates the amount would be about $60 million going out to both counties and cities, with about $10 million allocated just for cities. Of course, if government shuts down, employees at the departments of Transportation and Finance would not be making the deposits into the accounts. State aid projects would be at risk as well with a government shutdown; if you have projects that are awaiting the distribution of these funds, consider developing contingency plans for the projects. The DOT has advised the League that it will be Seridint, Cities a letter explaining some of the more significant DOT" implications associated with a state government sh�itdown. Local City Sales 'faxes—For most cities with local option sales taxes, the state Department of Jun 19 Z001 15:14:12 Via Fax -> 61Z+5®9+5868 Administrator Page 883 Of 004 -Ia Revenue administers the tax collections. A shutdown of the Department of Revenue could impact the distribution of these local sales tax revenues, which could in turn affect the ability of some cities to make debt payments that are supported by these revenues. According to the Minnesota Tax Handbook, local sales taxes collected exceeded $104 million in 1999, so it appears that a delay in receiving these arrioums could have some significant impact on sonic cities. Police and Fire Aid—Municipal relief associations receive a share of the state tax collections of certain insurance taxes, which are distributed on or around October 1. These payments could be delayed by a protracted shutdown. TIF Grants—The Department of Revenue will be mailing applications for the TIF grant program next week. The grant program provides state assistance to districts that have suffered revenue shortfalls due to the class rate compression enacted in 1997, 1998 and 1999. Although the applications will be mailed out next week, before a potential shutdown, the deadline for completed applications is August 1. Department of Revenue staff would potentially not be available to address questions and process applications during any potential shutdown. Grant recipients are notified of their award amounts by November 15 and grants are sent out December 26. Peace officer training reimbursement—The application forms must be submitted by August 1 with payments usually made by niid-September. Last year, the amount was approximately $375 per officer. if the shutdown delays the reimbursement, cities with large police departments may see a delay in payments of a significant amount. Smaller police departments would also be affected, but since the total dollar amount would be less, there might be a better chance for a city to absorb the cost until payment is made. Cities Holding Local Elections This Fall—The Secretary of State's Office is confident that an appropriate level of staffing will be in place to allow essential voter registration and election administrative activities to continue. The chief election officer for the state has requested the Governor to include as essential services appropriations for the level of staffing necessary in her office to assure that local elections this fall can be conducted in compliance with state law. The Governor has plans to seek a court order to keep essential state government services in place in the event of a state government shutdown. Cities Anticipating Grant Awards or Approvals of Local Housing or Economic Development Activities by Minnesota Housing Finance Agency and Department of Trade & Economic Development—Delays could take place for cities with pending housing or economic development grant agreements. Cities expecting staff review and approval of loans and grants for state -funded programs such as housing, drinking water, wastewater treatment and other community development may also experience delays. Small Cities Community Development Block Grant funds that have been awarded must be drawn down to cover costs of local program activities. In such situations, cities need to be aware of the impact on local development activities and delivery of services. It is also important for local officials to keep in mind city residents who would be immediately at risk if scheduled rent assistance funds or other regularly scheduled financial support or services are not forthcoming. Jun 19 Z001 15:14;54 Via Fax -> 62+589+5868 Administrator Page 004 Of 004 Impact on Counties—County governments could also be impacted by a state government shutdown. Stearns County has already notified affected workers about potential layoffs. Although the first half property tax settlements should not be affected, a protracted state shutdown could have the ancillary impact of shutting down certain county operations, which could include property tax administration. This could impact general property tax administration, the truth -in - taxation process as well as the metropolitan and Iron Range fiscal disparities portion of the property tax system. General City Interaction With State Agencies—Interaction with state agencies may be delayed or unavailable. Examples could include data practices assistance, building inspections, approvals or issuance of certain liquor licenses, wastewater regulation through the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, OSHA complaints, pay equity compliance reports, election judge training, MnDOT approval of plats, joint road projects with MnDOT, planning assistance from the state, boundary adjustment activities, joint park and recreation activities, etc. Of course, at this time, there is no way of knowing if any of this information will be relevant. Hopefully, it will not be necessary. However, because the consequences could be significant, it seems prudent to do contingency planning now if you have not already done so. The League will do its best to keep you apprised over the coming weeks; be sure to carefully read the Cities Bulletin and Friday Fax and also to check the League's website for current information. Guest Column By Nwamaka Ejebe and Patty Ple-Plakon Students at Wayzata High School and Vice Chairs of the Plymouth Human Rights Commission The Sun Sailor has previously covered stories about the 1995 lawsuit brought by the Minneapolis Chapter of the NAACP against the state of Minnesota. The lawsuit argued that racial and economic segregation in some Minneapolis schools deprived children of an adequate education guaranteed by the state constitution. A settlement was reached in 1998 that established a four- year program for improved access for low-income Minneapolis students to open enroll in suburban schools, including the Wayzata and Robbinsdale area schools. The Plymouth Human Rights Commission, along with many others in the schools and community, have asked the question: "What can we do to ensure a smooth transition for these students?" The Plymouth Human Rights Commission made this the theme of its annual student human rights workshop in May. Approximately 100 students and staff from Wayzata, Armstrong, Cooper, Richfield, and Edina high schools met at the Plymouth Creek Center for the half-day workshop. The students first learned about the history of school desegregation in the fifties and sixties. Next, a panel of students who were originally from the Minneapolis School District and moved to the Hopkins, Armstrong, Edina, and Cooper high schools shared their personal experiences in adjusting to their new suburban schools. They responded to questions about the differences among the high schools, the hardest things about adjusting to their new school, and what their schools did to make the transition easier for them. The result of the workshop was development of a list of - Ib ideas of what students, faculty, and parents can do to make school transition easier for new students. Several themes were identified. First, we saw that the problem had to first be recognized in the schools. Simply ignoring the problem would not solve it. Students suggested having PTA meetings and a welcoming group to assist students with orienting to their new school. Second, we learned from the panel discussion that we have more similarities than differences. The Minneapolis School District and the suburban districts have similar athletic programs and academic extra curricular activities. Students everywhere share concerns of belonging and not feeling different or isolated. All students attending a new school face similar difficulties of understanding the new school's physical layout, rules, and culture, and the challenge of making new friends and "fitting in." The Plymouth Human Rights Commission compiled the data, and results were shared with all of the schools at the workshop, as well as others involved with the lawsuit. The students attending the workshop have taken on the challenge of helping new students adjust to their schools. Please consider what YOU can do to make the transition easier for students traveling to our schools. Commuter Bicycles When the city of Glendale, Ariz. (pop. 147,000; Martin Vanacour, city manager), police department recovers stolen bicycles and cannot locate the rightful owner, the city donates some of the bikes to local nonprofit agencies and provides the rest to the city's Employee Bike Pro- gram. City employees who agree to ride the bike to and from work at least twice a week, wear a helmet whenever they ride, and sign a waiver absolving the city from liability can choose one of the confiscated bi- cycles. After the employee commutes on the bicycle for one year, the bike becomes the employee's property. The city offers up to $50 (out of its trip reduction program budget) per bike for equipment and repairs that can be obtained at a discount from a local bike shop. Employees who com- mute to work by bike are eligible for monthly prize drawings and other Incentives. Currently, 70 employees are earning a free bike through this program. Contact Cathy Colbath, Transit Supervisor, 6322 West Myrtle, Suite A, Glendale, Ariz. 85301; 623/930-3508; fax, 623/931-6960; e-mail, ccolbath@ci.glendale.az.us. Utility Bicycles In Chehalis, Wash. (pop. 7,000; David M. Campbell, city manager), the public works department and the police department worked together to supply a water meter reader with a bicycle to use on his routes. The police department located a suitable bicycle from the unclaimed property inventory, and public works took a half day to repair the bike, modify it to hold the reading equipment, and design a bike rack for the meter read- ing truck. Now, after the meter reader parks his truck, he can bike his route and return to the truck much faster than if he walked. The bike not only lessens strain on the knees and feet of the meter reader, it also saves up to two hours on long routes. The city saves a bit on fuel, and repairs to the bike are minimal. Chehalis's sec- ond meter reader liked the idea so much that now he also covers many of his routes by bicycle. Contact Mark Petrie, Water Superintendent, P.O. Box 871, Chehalis, Wash. 98532; 360/748-0238; fax, 360/748- 0694; e-mail, chehalispw2@localaccess.com. Duty Calls—But More Predictably The paid -on-call fire department in Plymouth, Minn. (pop. 62,000, Dwight D. Johnson, city manager) has created the Duty Crew Program to permit its firefighters to choose for themselves their weekday working hours. Although late night and week- end calls make use of traditional page -outs, on weekdays firefighters are no longer controlled by their pagers. They can work and train on shifts that they themselves schedule in advance, shifts that replace the uncer- tainty of responding on call. The Duty Crew Program has reduced emergency response time by 5 to 6 minutes, provided predictable staff- ing, consolidated training and main- tenance, increased public education programming, improved firefighter skills, and significantly reduced over- all time demands placed upon fire- fighters. It has also helped with recruitment and retention. Firefight- ing in Plymouth has become a pre- dictable part-time job. Contact Gretchen Hurr, Plymouth Fire Cap- tain, 3400 Plymouth Blvd., Ply- mouth, Minn. 55447; 763/509-5132; fax, 763/509-5167; e-mail, Ghurr@ci.plymouth.mn.us; Web site, www.ci.plymouth.mn.us. Teens as Involved Citizens Olathe, Kans. (pop. 90,000; Michael Wilkes, city manager), has given its teenagers an opportunity to shape city policies that affect teens. The Olathe Teen Council, modeled after the city council, is made up of 22 students selected by school adminis- trators and meets monthly. Members are routinely assigned to city boards and task forces and have made a dif- ference in such activities as the Teen Summer Fest '99 and a teen Web page that can be accessed through the city's Web site. Council members get excellent practice in running orderly meetings and preparing a budget for their $15,000 allocation. The Olathe Youth Congress, modeled on the U.S. Congress, is a large, diverse group. Members join the congress by submitting applications stating their interests. Sessions are held twice a year. At the fall 1999 session, 130 students attended and participated in the following committees: commu- nity services, judiciary/government relationships, safety, substance abuse, education, and environment. A major focus of the session was the condition of the city's parks, and the congress's environment committee was key to the campaign to increase the sales tax by 1/8 cent dedicated to improve the parks. After the initiative passed, members of the youth congress gained seats on the city's parks advi- sory board that determines how the sales tax Increase is spent. Contact Susan E. Sherman, Assistant City Manager, PO Box 768, Olathe, Kans. 66051; 913/393-6202; fax, 913/393- 6203; e-mail, ssherman@olatheks.org; Web site, www.olatheks.org. Looking for More Good Ideas? Ideas in Action, ICMA's popular guide to innovative projects in local government, brings subscribers a total of 200 innovations collected from local governments all over the coun- try. For subscription information, visit the ICMA bookstore at www.bookstore.icma.org, or e-mail to subscriptions@icma.org. ICMA Newsletter 12 June 4, 2001 MetroEnvironment Breakfast Series Breakfast Meeting Tuesday, June 26, 2001 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. Minnesota Science Museum (Argon Room) 120 West Kellogg Boulevard: overlooking the Mississippi River (Parking access and RSVP information on back) Applying Smart Growth within the Region's Environmental Agenda Agenda Introduction and Background Regional Vision Growing Smart to Preserve Natural Resources Community Planning Smart Growth Tools to Assist the Region and the Communities Neighborhood Action St. Paul Riverfront Development and District Del Sol Smart Growth Opportunity Site Roger Williams Chair, Regional Environment Partnership (REP) Ted Mondale Chair, Metropolitan Council Tim Rood Calthorpe and Associates Patrick Seeb Executive Director, St. Paul Riverfront Corp. Julie Eigenfeld Director, Riverview Ec omic Development Association (REDA) o . L . Question and Answer Panel/Closing Remar .4, Roger Williams JUN 1 4 i '�)i To learn more about the Regional Environ)"` www.metrocounciL org/environment or contact Debra Rose at (65 479. the website at Links," lr � Please RSVP by completing the following information and faxing this page to us at (651) 602-1003 or call Debra Rose at (651) 602-1479 or e-mail debra. rose @metastate.mn. us MetroEnvironment Breakfast Series Meeting Tuesday, June 26, 2001 — 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. Minnesota Science Museum Name: Affiliation: I WILL NOT attend, but my I WILL attend ❑ 1 WILL NOT attend ❑ alternate (listed below) will attend ❑ Use this space to update your mailing address, list an alternate or to send additional information NOTE: Access to Science Museum Parking Because of construction in downtown St. Paul, easiest access to the parking ramp for the Science Museum is from Chestnut Street. You can access Chestnut Street from Shepard Road; the street sign at this intersection is marked Old Chestnut/Eagle Road. Follow the signs to the parking ramp by turning on Chestnut. Chestnut can also be accessed from 7th Street (one block west of Kellogg Boulevard). JUN -20-01 WED 05:37 PM WRIGHT CO. PUBLIC WORKS FAX NO. 6126827313 P,02/08 HIGHWAY 55 COALITION MEETING Hennepin County Public Works Facility June 29, 2001 9:00 a.m. AGENDA 1. ) Introductions 2) Review/Approval of Minutes of June 1, 2001. (attached) 3) Discuss Washington Fly -In 4) Discuss Gash Flow Schedule for the Scoping/EIS Process 5) Discuss Structure of Organization 6) Discuss Next Steps 7) Set Next Meeting — Develop Agenda Attachments: Minutes JUN -20-01 WED 05:37 PM WRIGHT CO. PUBLIC WORKS FAX NO. 6126827313 P.03/08 DRAFT HIGHWAY 55 COALITION MEETING Hennepin County Public Works )Facility June 1, 2001. 9:00 A.M. I. Introduction Ken Jude, Wright County Commissioner called the meeting to order and asked attendees to introduce themselves (see attached attendee list). 11. Review Minutes of May 11, 2001 The attendees agreed the final two sentences of the first paragraph of III.11V. Should be deleted (final version of minutes attached). 111.Discuss Letter from SEH Regarding Cost Estimates Jim Povi.ch, Minnesota Department of Transportation (MN/DOT) District 3 representative, indicated MN/DOT traditionally performs scoping before performing an Environmental Impact Study (EIS)_ It was noted the scoping would identify all reasonable alternatives, generally reducing the number of alternatives more closely examined in the EIS. Shelly Johnson agreed with, this approach, based on his experience. The attendees were advised by Mn/DOT that scoping includes a high degree of public involvement, accounting for up to one third of a project's study budget. After much discussion, it was agreed the cost of a scoping/EIS process should be anticipated to be $5 million ($2.5 million for each) for. the 40 mile corridor (Annandale to I-494). Regarding the designation of a.lead agency for a scoping/EIS process, the options appear to be MNIDOT District 3 and Wright County. While MN/DOT District 3 tended to be favored since it is a state highway, it was noted Wright County may be able to retain the services of necessary consultants more quickly. IV. Review/Approve Information to be Presented for the Washington Fly -In, Fred Corrigan indicated that if the near term objective is right of way preservation, the Washington delegation should be advised. Jim Povich noted he favored a four lane configuration to Annandale. Jim continued by observing safety is the primary concern for MN/DOT District 3. Regarding the makeup of the group, the fax cover sheet was referenced. Connie Kozl.ak and Jim Grube indicated the Metropolitan Council and Hennepin County respectively should be considered. cooperating parties, not necessary advocates of highway widening at this time. MN/DOT's Metro District should be viewed similarly. Heidi Peper requested her name be removed from the list in favor of the Wright County Economic Development Program. Ken Jude .indicated Annandale and Maple Lakc inay be joining the group. JUN -20-01 WED 05:37 PM WRIGHT CO. PUBLIC WORKS FAX NO. 6126827313 P,04/08 I C Highway 55 Expansion Coalition Meeting June 1, 2001 Page 2 DRAFT Fred Corrigan indicated the fly -in group (Fred, Wright County Commissioner Elmer Elchelberg, Wayne Firlgalson, and Senator Mark Ourada) will indicate to the Washington delegation that the group is just organizing. the group will advise that $5 million is needed. for the scopug/EIS process. During discussion regarding the local match, Joy Tierney indicated MN/DOT should be the source of the local match since TH 55 is a state highway. Fred Corrigan indicated the legislature will be considering the capital project bonding bill next session, and that may be source of the local match. Wayne Fingalsonagreed to send a letter requesting state bond funds. Jim Povieh indicated MN/DOT senior staff determined High Priority Regional Corridors (TH 55) must be studied. Jim also noted TH 55 leads the list of such corridors "not performing". As such, attendees agreed MN/DOT may be able to come up with some funding for (at least some type of) a study. V. Next Step/Next Meeting The next meeting will be June 29 at. 9:00 am in the Hennepin County Public Works Facility in Medina. Items to be discussed include a report on the Washington fly -in and a cash flow schedule for the scoping/EIS process. The meeting adjourned at 11:00 a.m. Attachment JUN -20-01 WED 05:37 PM WRIGHT CO, PUBLIC WORKS IN FAX NO. 6126827313 P,05/08 /' - 'k Y-, xi! 46 � 3 til A� Q91 OR N vo, Zi 'mi 00. 1-o* '00 :00; cwl n:l 0000 Ono t"'.' Cq D 'zD' t w-, Q1C14: r-.. cl: 00! go: od C"o (13t - 21, 00. r 40,: Of 0. Mi tn 0.rL4; W. C)ma. 1-0 Ui 0 44. Mli W o: -sp- L4: o' 0: 0: JUN -20-01 WED 05:38 PM WRIGHT CO. PUBLIC WORKS FAX NO. 6126827313 P.06/08 HIGHWAY 55 COALITION MEETING Hennepin County Public Works Facility May I1, 2001 9:00 A.M. Introduction FINAL Ken Jude, Wright County Commissioner called the meeting to order and asked attendees to introduce themselves (see attached attendee list). He asked Wayne hingalson to review the agenda for the meeting. YY. Functional Classification — Change from Minor Arterial to Principal Arterial Tom O'Keefe of the Metropolitan (Metro) Division of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) indicated the Metro Division's 20 year plan recommends a functional classification study be performed for the TH 55 corridor west of 1-494. Tom also noted the Metropolitan (Metro) Council's Transportation Policy Plan (TPp) appears to support such a study. It was also noted that TH 55 is a High Priority Regional Corridor, and that senior MnfDOT staff was meeting on May 11 to discuss how to treat such corridors. Connie Kozlak of the Mctro Council indicated the TPP contains a list of criteria for each of the various functional classifications. Connie advised that the Metro Council would have to approve a functional classification change of TH 55 to Principal Arterial and that ultimately, the TPP would need to be amended. Since the TPP was amended in January 2001, it is not scheduled for review for four years_ As a result, if a functional classification change is sought, a separate public bearing process will have to occur. Connie indicated a functional classification change for TH 55 may not be necessary because TEA -21 does provide opportunities to fund the improvement of minor arterials such as TH 55. (Upon further discussion, it was agreed the upcoming TEA -21 solicitation would be too early for any party to develop a legitimate proposal to change the functional class.) Regardless, Tom O'Keefe indicated Mn/DOT would submit a request to the Metro Council that it assist in developing a procedure for the TH 55 functional classification study within 30 days. Jim Povich of Mn/DOT District 3 indicated the most recent district plan (adopted two Y=s ago) included no widening of TH 55. Jim noted he was involved in the design/construction of the "super two" (lane) segment of TH 371 between Little Falls and Brainerd. Subsequent studies have shown the "super two" design does not significantly improve traffic safety (at least along TH 371 for higher traffic volumes. Based on his experience Jim tends to favor the widening of TH 55 to four lanes (traffic volumes arc high enough). Although the district has not yet established the highway widening as a priority, then believes funding may be made available in 10 years if program funding continucr — - n* —2nt leve!.:.. JUN -20-01 WED 05:38 PM WRIGHT CO. PUBLIC WORKS Ilighway 55 Coalition Meeting May 11, 2001 Page 2 FAX NO. 6126827313 P.07/08 III. & IV. Corridor Study Preservation — Annandale to 1-494 FINAL It was agreed the corridor should be preserved in support of future widening. In order to preserve the corridor it will be necessary to map it. In order to map the corridor, a limited, or tiered, Environment Impact Study (EIS) would be needed (the federal government will not allow a complete EIS because the TH 55 project is not funded in either district's plan Tom O'Keefe indicated Mn/DOT supports studies of corridors and encourages input from local government and interested parties so a reasonable definition of the future can be developed. The Metro District believes that long term visions also need to include access and. signal spacing so expectations can be managed. Jinn Povich said he sometimes feels that corridor studies can be time consuming and that it may be beneficial to go directly to the scoping document and the environmental study. It was agreed the widening of TH 55 to four lanes will likely require at least 300 .feet of right of way, not including a frontage road. The attendees also agreed that the timely acquisition of agricultural land for corridor preservation is advised. Connie Kozlak noted the rnetro area has available to it the Right of way Acquisition Loan Fund (RALF) from which local government may borrow funds to acquire right of way. The funds would then be reimbursed by Mn/DOT when TH 55 is improved. V- Construction Plants There was no discussion on this item. Vl. Discuss Structure of Organization Fred Corrigan, via speakerphone, advised that the organization can have any number of members_ The group will have..to consider itself to be a marketing organization as it tries to "sell" the state and federal politicians on the need to improve TH 55 as a priority over other projects. VII- 'Washington Fly -1n Ken Jude suggested that the local government officials develop letters of support for TH 55 improvement/right of way information packets, preservation before the fly -in so they can be included in JUN -20-01 WED 05:38 PM WRIGHT CO. PUBLIC WORKS FAX N0, 6126827313 Highway 55 Coalition Meeting May 11, 2001 Page 3 P. 08/08 FINAL Fred Corrigan advised an information packet for Congressmen Kennedy and Ramstad should include: 1. Description of group 2. Description of desired project 3. Exhibits which show corridor and related data 4. What the group desires of the Congressmen Tom. O'Keefe indicated Mn/DOT would develop one-page summaries of the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) process and highway functional classification definitions, Jinn Povich stressed Mn/DOT can provide information but not produce the information. document. Fred Corrigan indicated he would. coordinate the development of the public relations information document for the June 1, 2001 meeting. V111. June 1, 2001 Meeting Agenda The subject of the June 1 meeting will be the review of the Washington fly -in information packet. The meeting adjourned at 11:10 A.M. Attachment k3l HousingMinnesota OK& W koongaUow June 15, 2001 Mayor Joy Tierney City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MIN 55447-1448 Dear Friend of Affordable Housing, I am writing to extend an invitation to join us at our HousingMinnesota community sector organizing meeting on June 261n HousingMinnesota is a collaborative educational campaign designed to foster a positive public perception of affordable housing and to create a funding and policy environment necessary to replenishing Minnesota's housing supply. The purpose of the meeting on the 26`n is to bring community, faith, business and labor leaders together to explore similarities and differences in their support for affordable housing. Our goal is to build a coordinated campaign supported by these sectors that will make a significant difference in our state's affordable housing situation. This is a roll -up - the -sleeves working session intended to set the stage for the broad based campaign that will extend into 2002. On the 26`n the meeting starts at 9:00 and concludes at 2:00 in the afternoon (lunch provided so we do need RSVPs). It is at the Bandana Banquet and Conference Center, 1021 Bandana Boulevard East, in St. Paul. After the organizing meeting, from 2-3, we will have an optional session covering the resources available through the HousingMinnesota campaign. I have enclosed a copy of our agenda for the June 26 meeting. Please feel free to contact me at (651) 649-1710 ext. 122 to reserve a place June 26 or to find out more about the HousingMinnesota Campaign. Sincerely yours, M Michael Thomas Lead Collaborative Organizer HousingMinnesota Campaign HousingMinnesota Community Sector Organizing Meeting June 26, 2001, from 9:00 to 2:00 Bandana Banquet and Conference Center, 1021 Bandana Boulevard East, in St. Paul Agenda 9:00 Registration, view displays 9:30 Welcome and review of day's agenda 9:45 HousingMinnesota Purpose, Accomplishments and Future 10:00 First breakout session — by sector, covering topics such as affordable housing issues and priorities of the sector, and current involvement in promoting affordable housing. Sector groups are: Business, Labor, Faith Communities, Local Government, People Affected by the Housing Shortage, Housing and Low Income Advocates, Smart Growth and Environmental Groups, and Education and Social Services. 11:30 Lunch (Sector meetings may break or participants may pick up food and return to sector discussions 12:00 Second breakout session — (sector work continues) covering topics such as whom to recruit to the campaign, sector -specific objectives and activities to occur over the next six months, support needed from the HousingMinnesota campaign staff. 1:00 Sector reports back to the entire group — reports will cover the top three priorities or principles for housing identified during the sector meeting, and the top three strategies for expanding participation in affordable housing promotional efforts by the sector. 1:45 Conclusion and wrap-up 2:00 Adjourn Note: After the session, starting at about 2:15 there will be an orientation session covering the web site and other support available from HousingMinnesota staff and discussion of the HousingMinnesota presence at the 2001 State Fair. Office of the Mayor 350 South 5th Street - Room 331 Minneapolis MN 55415-1393 Sharon Sayles Belton Mayor Office (612) 673-2100 Fax 673-2305 TTY 673-3187 June 18, 2001 Mayor Joy Tierney 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mayor Tierney: inneapolis city of lakes On behalf of the Minnesota Housing Partnership, I would like to invite you to a meeting on June 26, 2001. The Minnesota Housing Partnership is convening a coalition of community, faith, business, and labor leaders to explore similarities and differences in support for affordable housing. This will allow local leaders to discuss their priorities for affordable housing and set the direction for a joint, statewide effort. Their goal is to build a coordinated campaign, supported by these sectors that will make a significant difference in our state's affordable housing situation. The conference will begin at 9:30 a.m. and conclude at 2:00 p.m. It will take place at the Bandana Banquet and Conference Center, 1021 Bandana Boulevard East, St. Paul, MN. If you are able to attend the conference please RSVP to Chip Halbach at (651) 649-1710. Lunch will be provided. Sincerely, Sharon Sayles Belton Mayor SSB:lmw www ci.minneapolis.mrims Affirmative Action Employer in de ps .rd 13- 10: znt m- 1• ve. )m - 8th dy, s, a the une :pin )m. with July Ills, iild- dk is pro- rom- - life - .e2• ipls., t, 5K skate. .FC. S., nnual athon I Park 5884, f race - North 8850, e, 10K streets ,3394 .r 651- 'ugural ggh the shaven ;haven, y Park, us, and aice big r, 1265 instate- ual half Aug. 18 ✓alk/run pit min - ;rounds, 15-3047. d 5 Mile aly 15 - iopkins, ry- anile fun ; flat and r Office, -5155 or Meerkats of the Kalahari Southern our underground tun Africa's very own bug chomping, ' close, and be meerki "dirt -digging, playful little critters. MINNESOTA ZOO Open Memorial Day t�s /ifCYl. wio.s.au day. Day. JUNE 2001 MINNESOTA MONTHLY I B 59 Prudential (& Financial Mayor Joy Tierney City Hall 3400 Plymouth Blvd Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mayor Tierney: Stephen M. Dodson Vice President, Human Resources The Prudential Insurance Company of America 80 Livingston Ave. Roseland, NJ 07068-1701 Tel (973-716-4477 Fax 973-716-2986 Re: 60 Day WARN Notification June 11, 2001 In accordance with the Worker Adjustment Retraining and Notification Act ("WARN"), we are writing to inform you of the anticipated mass layoff of 30 employees in our Policyowner Relations Department located at 13001 County Road 10, Plymouth, MN 55442. Notice of separation will take place on June 12, 2001. The effective date of separation for those employees is August 12, 2001. They will continue to receive pay and benefits during this 60 day notice period. The layoffs are expected to be permanent. Additionally, the affected employees are not represented by a union and are not entitled to bumping rights. In accordance with WARN, the job titles of the positions which are affected, and the number of affected employees in each job classification, are listed on the attachment annexed hereto. For further information, please contact me at (973) 716-4477. Sincerely yours, ten M/ ��dson ` Vice President, Human Resources MINNESOTA PLANNING CRITICALISSUES l^ � (, [I N 2L Click and vote: Citizenship on the Internet The United States has one of the strongest democratic systems in the world. Voter turnout, however, remains low across the nation. In November 2000, Minnesota had the highest voter turnout in the country, but only 69.4 percent of eligible voters went to the polls. Nationwide only 51 percent of eligible voters participated. In the 1998 general election, Minnesota had a voter turnout of 60 percent in a nonpresidential year. While this was also the highest turnout in the nation, a significant number of Minnesotans still did not exercise their right to vote. In fact, 1.4 million eligible voters of the state did not vote and 119 million people did not vote nationwide, a 36 percent participation rate ■ Convenience may increase voter turnout ■ Who is responsible for elections? ■ Internet voting — the next stage in an evolutionary process ■ Internet voting should be introduced incrementally ■ Concerns about Internet voting are widespread ■ Vote online instead of in line ■ Internet voting trials abound ■ When will Internet voting become commonplace? ■ What does the public think? June 2001 It is not surprising, therefore, that states have been evaluating the ways people cast their votes, to encourage higher numbers of citizens to exercise their democratic privilege. In the general election of 2000, for example, Oregon conducted an all -mail ballot. Despite this, only 61 percent of their electorate voted. As the electoral process continues to evolve, some are looking to the Internet to revolutionize voting. Click and Vote examines Internet voting and addresses the following questions: ■ Will Internet voting encourage greater participation by citizens? ■ Can a system of voting by Internet be fair, accurate and secure? ■ What developments in technology are necessary to implement Internet voting effectively and economically? 0 At least 20 states have considered some form of Internet voting, according to a 1999 survey by the Council of State 2 Governments Elections Task Force. This 3 new voting option came to the attention of the American public in March 2000 when 3 the Democratic Party of Arizona held the first binding online vote during the presidential primary. 5 Defining Internet voting 6 9 Although Internet voting is a common phrase, its meaning is somewhat 11 ambiguous. It has often been compared to the process of e-commerce in which a 14 business transaction occurs between a 15 buyer and seller over the Internet. In this manner, people purchase books, flowers and other items with relative ease every day. In retail transactions, both parties are identified and the purchase is verified later through a credit card receipt or bank account statement. Internet voting, however, is not the same type of transaction. It requires a higher level of security and confidentiality for the voter's choice. Internet voting, also known as online voting, e -voting or i -voting, can refer to a variety of methods using technology to cast a vote. The California Internet Voting Task Force defines Internet voting as the "casting of a secure and secret electronic ballot that is transmitted to election officials using the Internet." The task force, convened by California Secretary of State Bill Jones, brought together representatives of government, vendors of Intemet voting systems, and others concerned about the integrity of the voting process. In 1998 voter tun in Polk County to Convenience may increase voter turnout Many herald Internet voting as the solution to slow the growing trend of nonvoting. They predict it will engage young people, who tend to be Internet savvy but politically indifferent. Others see Internet voting as just one of many options, including all -mail voting, that will appeal to voters. Still others believe its impact will be slight and that it could have a negative effect on the culture of voting by turning a social duty into a solitary activity. The benefit of Internet voting most often cited is convenience. Eventually, through Internet voting, voters will no longer be limited to casting their ballots at their local iota varied from 46.6 p in Chisago County v �n Source: Minnesota Secretary of State's Office 2 Minnesota Planning Perspectives June 2001 precinct. This would make it easier to vote on a lunch hour near work or by the children's daycare center after dropping them off. As remote voting becomes a possibility, many envision themselves voting, wrapped in a bathrobe and drinking a cup of coffee. Such oppor- tunities to vote would make it more difficult for voters to cite reasons like hectic schedules and bad weather for not voting. Internet voting would also benefit military personnel stationed overseas and other American citizens living abroad. Internet voting may be especially appealing to disabled people, those in nursing homes and hospitals, and others with conditions that create difficulty getting to the polls. Currently, technological advances are making it possible for the blind and vision -impaired to vote with secrecy, without assistance. Internet voting could give blind people the opportunity to vote unassisted from their home computers with the use of screen reader software. If the level of security suggested by the California Task Force is to be achieved, however, this convenience may not come quickly. To maintain the integrity of the system, voters may be asked to apply to vote electronically, similar to applying to vote by absentee ballot. This cautious step removes the spontaneity of Internet voting for the time being, but future advances in technology could change this. There are other reasons why Internet voting may not increase turnout. These include the inconvenience of going to an Internet voting site during a busy day, the feeling that an individual vote will not affect the outcome and lack of information about the candidates and the process. Some researchers believe that nonvoters would vote if the process — registration and casting a ballot — was easier. Others disagree and believe that the rate of nonvoting reflects a greater disconnect between the people and the government chosen to represent them. VOTER TURNOUT IN MINNESOTA IS CONSISTENTLY ABOVE THE NATIONAL AVERAGE 53% 39% 65% methods, so if major changes are deemed necessary, states and possibly the federal government may need to provide funding. Standards in U.S. elections are monitored 60% by the Federal Election Commission. It remains neutral on the issue of Internet 51% voting, but is a strict proponent of standards that ensure the integrity of the voting process. 36% 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 0 Minnesota S U.S. Source: Federal Election Commission Immediate access to information about the candidates is also seen as a benefit to Internet voting. Voters would be able to be more readily informed about the candidates and issues on the ballot. There are concerns, however, about electioneering, soliciting voters for particular candidates. However, current law in Minnesota permits people to bring materials into the voting booth to help As part of The Big Plan, Governor Jesse Ventura developed an initiative to increase voter turnout and rebuild trust between elected officials and citizens. His goal is, "at least 70 percent turnout in every election!" As part of the initiative the Governor devoted the eight Wednesdays between the September primary and Election Day 2000 to meeting with young people to encourage them to vote. Although the overall results were just short of 70 percent, statistics are not yet available to indicate if the proportion of young voters increased. them cast their ballot. Although the statute specifies "sample ballots," this has been interpreted as any written material a voter thinks is of use. The use of the Internet to transmit votes could reduce the time it takes to tabulate election results and conduct recounts. Arizona Secretary of State Betsey Bayless states, "Using the Internet for voting is just one way government will provide accurate and timely results to the public." Who is responsible for elections? . The U.S. Constitution gives states the responsibility for conducting elections. The federal government does not have a direct role, but provides guidelines. In turn, the states delegate responsibility for elections to local governments. Each county and municipality chooses its own voting technology and usually provides the resources for equipment and staff. These smaller units of government often have the least resources to invest in election The FEC plans to issue voluntary voting system standards, regarding online voting, to the states in 2001. The standards will address security and access issues surrounding remote Internet voting, as well as voting within government - controlled polling sites. According to Peggy Sims at the FEC, nothing at the federal level prevents the states from using the Internet as a dynamic election medium. Internet voting - the next stage in an evolutionary process Over the years a variety of innovations have been introduced to improve the voting process and thus increase voter participation. Although these options have been implemented in a number of states, their benefits and disadvantages continue to be debated. Benefits include convenience, cost savings and increased turnout for some options. On the other hand, there are concerns about loss of secrecy, opportunities for fraud and potential detrimental impacts on the culture of voting. REGISTRATION OPTIONS Same-day registration has mixed outcomes The most significant legislation on voting since the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 gave African Americans the right to vote has been the National Voter Registration Act of 1993. Known as the "Motor Voter Law," effective in 1995, this law requires states to offer to register people to vote when they get or renew driver licenses or when they apply for welfare and disability services. In addition, some states allow people to register to vote at their polling June 2001 Perspectives Minnesota Planning VOTER TURNOUT NATIONWIDE VARIES ACCORDING TO AGE AND RACE Percentage of age groups who voted Age Age Age Age 18-24 25-44 45-64 65+ Percentage of racial groups who voted Asian and Hispanic Black White Pacific Islander Source: Federal Election Commission, 1998 election place on Election Day. Minnesota implemented same-day registration in 1975. The impact of the Motor Voter Law is mixed — it has a positive effect on registration numbers but appears to have little effect on turnout in most cases. A 1997 report to Congress by the Federal Election Commission states that "the number of Americans actually voting in 1996 declined by over 5 percentage points from 1992 — the first presidential election since 1972, when the franchise was extended to 18-21 year olds, that voter registration rose while turnout declined." Same-day registration has had a more positive effect. Scholars estimate that if all states permitted same-day registration, turnout would increase 5 to 10 percent. Twenty percent of voters registered on Election Day in Minnesota in 2000, the highest same-day registration in two decades. It is believed that same-day registration had an impact on the outcome of the gubernatorial election in 1998. Online registration is underused Another way to increase registration is to make registration forms available on the Internet. Many Web sites for get -out -the - vote campaigns have promoted online access to state forms and the National Mail Voter Registration Form. Although the form is online, the voter must send a printed and signed copy. Twenty-six states, including Minnesota, accept the national form. Minnesota receives only a few hundred registrations each year in this way, usually from college students out of state, service personnel or persons residing overseas. Approximately six million Americans live abroad and, in 1996, 47 percent of them voted. VOTING OPTIONS California and Washington pioneer no-fault absentee voting Absentee voting is an option usually offered to voters under a specific set of circumstances, such as when illness or travel prevents them from going to the polling place. It allows voters to cast their ballot without being present at a polling place on Election Day. Some states, such as California, have a no- fault absentee voting option. Voters may apply to vote in person with the county auditor or city clerk prior to Election Day. They may also vote by mail. Voters do not have to state a particular reason for choosing to vote absentee. Minnesota Planning Perspectives lune 2001 Washington state promotes permanent absentee voting. One-third of the state's registered voters are signed up as "permanent absentee voters," which means they automatically receive a ballot in the mail before each election. Currently in Minnesota people can apply to vote by absentee ballot if away from home, ill or disabled, serving as an election judge in another precinct or if unable to go to the polling place due to a religious holiday or belief. Voting can also occur in person with the county auditor or city clerk prior to Election Day or by mail. The general election of 2000 had the highest use of absentee ballots in Minnesota's history. About 6.7 percent of voters used this method. Early voting extends the voting window Another option is early voting, opening the polls prior to Election Day. In this option voting is required in person but the time frame is increased from the traditional Election Day model. Unlike absentee voting, no restrictions apply, and voters are generally encouraged to take advantage of the longer time frame. Texas adopted early voting in 1991 and in 1994 Tennessee mandated a two-week early voting period within the 20 days prior to any election. Fourteen states, including Nevada and Colorado, also permit some form of early voting. The study, Implementation of Early Voting, by Lilliard Richardson and Grant Neeley looked at early voting in Tennessee during the 1994 election. There were two U.S. Senate seats and the gubernatorial election on the ballot. Their research concluded that costs can be as high as $1 to $3 per vote, due to increased staffing costs and the ballot type involved, but the extra effort did appear to have a positive impact on participation. The exact impact is undetermined due to the difficulty of comparing the hotly contested races of 1994 to previous elections. A. McGeehan, director of elections, state of Texas, commented at a Brookings Institution symposium that early voting is popular in Texas but could not say that it has actually increased turnout. Voting by mail benefits citizens living overseas Mail balloting eliminates the need to visit a polling place to cast a vote and can extend the voting window. In Minnesota anyone who qualifies for absentee voting can vote by mail. The option is mostly chosen by military personnel and people living overseas. The vote is based on the last place of residence in the state. Minnesota permits municipalities with fewer than 400 registered voters to conduct vote -by -mail elections for state primary and general elections. Some states, notably Oregon, Washington, Nevada and California, have gone further and conducted statewide elections by mail In 1998, Oregon voters passed Proposition 60, abolishing the traditional polling place in all statewide elections in favor of mail ballots. In 2000 the state conducted the nation's first all -mail primary and general elections. Oregon Secretary of State Bill Bradbury has stated that turnout has increased by about 6 percentage points since Oregon switched to all -mail balloting. Research shows that all -mail balloting increases turnout but groups that typically do not vote in large numbers do not participate in this process either. In addition to increased turnout, there can also be a cost savings to government. In 1998, Oregon estimated $3 million savings over use of polling places. In Oregon, ballots are mailed to registered voters 14 to 20 days prior to the election. Voters complete their ballot and place it in a secrecy envelope, which in turn goes into an identification envelope which the voter signs. Voters pay the postage. The ballots must arrive at county election offices by Election Day. The signatures on the envelopes are compared to registration cards. On Election Day, the ballot is removed from the identification envelope and placed in a bin for counting. In November 2000, Oregon conducted the first presidential election entirely by mail. A significant factor in this election was more than 20 constitutional amendments or ballot initiatives. Ballots had to be in the hands of election officials by 8 p.m. on November 7. Delay -causing glitches were reported prior to Election Day, including incomplete ballot packets mailed to voters and insufficient postage. A flood of last- minute ballots on Election Day and a thorough yet time-consuming process delayed the results. Nonetheless, the all - mail vote increased the opportunity for informed voting and the state recorded an 80 percent turnout for the election. BALLOT OPTIONS Common ballot types range in sophis- tication from paper ballots, punch cards and mechanical lever machines to ballots read by optical scanners and Direct Recording Electronic systems. The DRE system uses computerized machines to store voters' choices electronically. They include touch screen computers, similar to ATM cash machines. Although this system appears similar to e -voting, it differs because information is not transmitted via the Internet. According to the Federal Election Commission, only 7.7 percent of the electorate used DRE systems in 1996. After the controversial 2000 presidential election, the advantages and disadvan- tages of various ballot types are likely to receive serious examination. Internet voting should be introduced incrementally A four stage model for phased implementation of Internet voting was suggested by the California Internet Voting Task Force. While others advocate a faster process to implement Internet voting, this measured approach has received much praise and is seen as a good model for governments to use. The stages are: 0 Internet voting at voter's polling place © Internet voting at any polling place © Remote Internet voting from county computers or kiosks Q Remote Internet voting from any Internet connection When voters cast an Internet vote at their own precinct, election officials have the continued responsibility of verifying the voter's registration in person, in addition to providing secure Internet access. This first stage is seen as an opportunity to test the new system and to increase voters' comfort level. Step two permits voters to cast their ballot from a computer with Internet access at any polling place within their county. Voters would still be verified in person by election officials, but they would require access to the entire county's voting roster, ideally through the Internet, to prevent duplicate voting. Voters would have the option of going to a polling place located near work or other activities instead of the precinct nearest their residence. The system would provide voters with the ballot appropriate for their own precinct. The third option permits voters to cast their ballots at any unattended Internet voting machine maintained by the county. This is referred to as "remote" Internet voting since it does not occur at a traditional polling place. The set-up is similar to the ATM banking system. Voters would use an authentication code provided by the county to access the system. This stage permits voting 24 -hours per day and reduces the number of election staff necessary to monitor voting. In-person verification of voters is replaced by the electronic code. In this instance, voters would have to plan ahead to request the code prior to voting online. The California report states that "the process is more complex than most common Internet commerce transactions and may not be viewed as much more convenient for voters than current voting options." The lack of convenience is due to the need for greater security at this stage. The final stage, according to the California Task Force, is allowing voters to cast a ballot from their own home or office computer. This step is more similar to Internet commerce transactions because of its greater convenience. But it still requires voters to request an authentication code and possibly even to download software to complete the June 2001 Perspectives Minnesota Planning HOW TO VOTE USING THE INTERNET The voter logs on to the election system with a unique password that was assigned during the election official's authentication of the voter. This authentication is completed either in person at county polling places or prior to the election through a paper-based application process similar to absentee voting. ■ After the password is provided, the appropriate ballot from the county election server appears on the screen. ■ Once the ballot is available on the voter's screen, the voter should be able to easily mark his or her preferences and review the voted ballot before it is transmitted to the county election official via the Internet. ■ When the voter is satisfied that the ballot is marked as intended, it is submitted via the Internet. ■ The ballot is encrypted as it travels over the Internet to protect the secrecy and integrity of each vote. ■ The ballot is received by the county election system which authenticates the validity of the vote, ensures that the vote has not been altered in transit and automatically and immediately sends a receipt back to the voter. This receipt indicates that the ballot has been received, but does not indicate the voter's choices. ■ Once received, the ballot is stripped of voter identification and stored for counting at the end of the election period. ■ The ballot is archived for potential recount and auditing purposes. Source: California Internet Voting Task Force, January 2000 transaction. Since the computer used to cast the ballot is completely out of the county's control, security measures must be increased and opportunities for fraud grow. The report warns that computers owned by third parties, such as businesses, are more difficult to secure than home or county -owned systems. While the Internet voting concept is similar to no-fault absentee voting, the following key questions will need to be answered before any form of Internet voting is introduced. Where will the ballot be cast? Who will maintain the computer? How will voters be authenticated? Digital signatures show potential for identifying voters A voter seeking to cast a ballot online could be identified as an eligible, registered voter in a number of ways. ■ By providing a personal identification number given by election officials ■ By providing a personal identification number in combination with personal information such as a birth date or part of a Social Security Number ■ By using a digital signature ■ In the future, by using biometric identification such as retinal or finger prints Personal identification numbers are in daily use for banking transactions. Biometric identification is not likely to be a practical option in the near future. Digital signatures, mathematical formulae unique to the holder, may have the greatest potential for identifying online voters securely. They are considered secure because the signer has to appear in person and prove who they are to get a digital signature certificate. Digital signatures make it practically impossible to alter a document without the changes being detectable. They rely on encrypted instructions that must be used with a single password to identify an Minnesota Planning Perspectives June 2001 individual. The password uses special software to lock, or encrypt, the signature, which a freely given public key — or second password — can open. Digital signatures are already being used in business transactions for the secure transfer and authentication of electronic documents. On June 30, 2000, President Clinton signed the Electronic Signatures Act, effective October 1, 2000. The law gives the same legal authority to electronic signatures as those signed by hand, although it does not specify the type of technology that must be used to submit electronic signatures. In Minnesota, where Governor Ventura proclaimed October 13, 1999, "Digital Signature Day," they may be used for private, business and government transactions. Use of the signatures is voluntary. The Secretary of State's Office serves as the certification authority for government employees and licenses other certification authorities who provide digital signature certificates for private citizens. Minnesota was the first state to have digital signature certificates available to government employees from a government official. Currently, digital signatures are not available for voting in Minnesota; it would require a change in state law to permit their use for voting. Concerns about Internet voting are widespread The interest in online voting continues to grow but concerns accompany the excitement. These issues fall into several categories: technological issues, election integrity, access, effect on civic culture, cost and the role played by vendors. Most can be overcome with more information and an implementation strategy that addresses voter concerns. Some reflect problems associated with the current voting system that have been debated in the past and are likely to be argued into the future. There are technological issues to be overcome Internet voting has several unique technological issues. The biggest issue is related to the encryption of cast ballots as they travel over the Internet between the voter and the election official. The ballot must remain secret to maintain personal voting privacy, it must be secure to prevent fraud and it must be accurate to provide trustworthy results. This presents a challenge to computer programmers and election officials. Digital signatures are seen as a solution to this problem by ensuring that the ballot remains effectively sealed from the time it is sent to the point the election official "opens" the ballot with the corresponding code. These signatures, however, can be expensive and currently it is not practical to provide digital signatures to all voters. Voter verification is another issue that must be addressed. In the current system, voters are identified as eligible by precinct workers who check voter registries or register voters directly at the polls. When people choose to vote with an absentee ballot, the signature on their application is matched against their voter registration information. If voters cast ballots online at unstaffed sites or from remote sites, such as home or work, a process must be created to ensure that the voter is eligible to vote in the election and that they cast only one ballot. The Arizona Democratic Party used personal identification numbers plus birth dates or part of Social Security numbers to verify voters. The California Task force recommends voters apply for online voting status with a printed application. This allows their signature to be compared to their voter registration card. After assuring that accurate ballots cast by eligible voters are received by the election officials, the process must be tamper -proof so votes cannot be changed after they have been cast. Reliable recount methods must also be in place. The voting system must have a reliable audit trail that keeps an accurate record of votes but does not compromise the voter's anonymity. Secrecy of the ballot, prior to it being sent to the election official is also of concern when others can access the voter's computer, such as in a work setting. Since information about the ballot is held in the computer system as a person goes through the voting process, network administrators and unauthorized hackers could potentially learn which candidates were selected. Voting software that voters download from the Internet or receive after applying to vote online is being developed to prevent this problem. Voters may feel more comfortable with Internet voting if they could verify that their ballot was received as cast by getting a receipt, similar to a consumer purchase. But such a system would compromise the integrity of the election. If voters were able to show proof of how they voted, it could lead to coercion or purchase of votes. Some systems have proposed sending a receipt that the ballot reached its destination, but not how it was counted. After recent attacks on commercial Web sites and the spread of computer viruses, the fear of tampering with the online voting system is very real. There are also concerns about denial of service caused by attacks by hackers who bombard the system by sending fraudulent ballots until the system overloads and prevents authorized voters from sending their ballots. Another danger is "Trojan horse attacks." These are programs which execute computer functions without the user's knowledge. They can install themselves on computers in numerous ways, including through browser "plug -ins" and Web page scripts. Vendors of Internet voting systems are developing ways to address these problems and hope to prove their systems' worthiness through the use of Internet voting trials such as those conducted in 2000 in California and Arizona. Contingency plans must be made so voters have every opportunity to cast their ballot even if the system is inaccessible due to attack, system problems or power failures. Until such problems can effectively be ruled out, Internet voting will likely remain a voting option rather than the only means to cast a ballot. In addition to technical problems which election officials and vendors must resolve, Internet voters may have to work to set up the system on their end. With the proliferation of computer manufacturers and different brands of Internet browsers, network servers and software programs, compatibility of the election system and its components with the equipment used by voters is not always guaranteed. To resolve these conflicts, voters may have to download special voting software and be computer savvy enough to configure their systems to meet the requirements of the official election Web site. A final issue about the technology of online voting relates to the status of the Internet as an unowned, uncontrolled medium. "The Internet itself is not a secure environment, nor is it an American environment, comments Deborah Phillips, chair of the Voting Integrity Project, a non-profit, nonpartisan voters' rights group. There are concerns that using the Internet for government elections creates a situation that can never be fully secured and that could compromise national security. Election integrity must be preserved Every voting system has potential for error, human or mechanical. The risk of fraud is also inherent in the current system. Internet voting, however, increases the potential for tampering. Even with deterrents in place, a sophisticated hacker could conceivably send millions of unauthorized ballots into the system. If such an effort went undetected, election results would be manipulated. Phillips stresses that time-honored methods of fraud such as duplicate registrations, registering unqualified voters and voting using registrations and identifications of those who have moved or died, could be incorporated into Internet voting. Paul Craft, manager of the voter system at the Florida Division of Elections counters, "All those possibilities are there June 2001 Perspectives Minnesota Planning 7 and are real, but the fact that risk exists does not mean Internet voting is impossible; it simply means you have to address the risk." In 1986, the Kansas State Supreme Court ruled in Sawyer vs. Chapman that "the compelling state interest in increased voter participation outweighs the added potential for fraud and loss of secrecy presented by mail ballot elections." The rationale for this verdict could be applied to Internet voting as well. The current systems in use at the polls and by absentee voters are by no means foolproof. White Internet voting should not compound these problems, it cannot be expected to completely resolve them. Internet voting brings many new concerns to light, but it also provides the opportunity to prevent many common problems with the current system of paper ballots. Often voters will incorrectly mark their ballots and vote for more candidates than permitted or inadvertently skip contests in which they are eligible to vote. Internet systems can prevent these errors by alerting the voter prior to sending the ballot. Digital inclusion is rapidly increasing All voters do not have Internet access If voting moves away from the polls and into homes and offices, how will that affect voters without access to computers? The "digital divide" — the gap between those with computer access and those without, often based on income, education, age, race and skill level — provides a twist on the impact of the voting process on turnout. The U.S. Department of Commerce has been conducting regular studies, falling Through the Net, to provide up-to-date figures on digital inclusion. Although the share of households with Internet access is soaring, in October 2000, 58.5 percent of households in the United States did not have access at home. Based on 48,000 interviews, it has been determined that whites are more likely to have Internet access at home than most racial and ethnic minorities have from any location. A new study released in October 2000, Surveying the Digital future, by the University of California at Los Angeles Despite dramatic gains, some groups remain behind Individuals using Hispanic households the Internet with Internet In Households I Black households . with with Internet computers Households with Internet access Rural households with Internet ® 1998 M 2000 Source: falling through the net.- towards digita/inclusion, U.S. Department of Commerce Minnesota Planning Perspectives June 2001 surveyed 2,096 U.S. households, including both Internet users and nonusers. It concluded that the gap was narrowing. "The digital divide seems to be correcting itself," said Jeffrey Cole, UCLA. "People who have been on the Internet four years or more tend to be white, highly educated and male. Among people who have been on less than a year, it's more African- American, Latino and female." Based on a few of the recent Internet voting trials, it appears that the access gap can be overcome. Although the Voting Integrity Project filed a lawsuit on behalf of minorities to prevent Internet voting during the Arizona Democratic Presidential Primary, minority participation rates in the primary were higher than 1996 rates. Although this comparison is skewed because of the differences in the 1996 and 2000 contests, it still represents a positive result for Internet voting. With regard to age, many believe that older voters will not be comfortable using computers and the Internet to cast their ballots. A recent trial at several Iowa county polling places demonstrated that older voters are just as curious about Internet voting as young people. Income levels affect the number of people with computers and Internet access in their homes, although the UCLA study found that cost was not a significant factor in Internet access. If Internet voting is implemented at polling places or access is provided at libraries, schools and other public places, it can be argued that those without home access will not be severely disadvantaged. In addition, some online voting companies are addressing this issue by installing kiosks in community centers and other public locations to promote the system. Voting is a social activity Not only will Internet voting impact how ballots are cast, it may impact why people vote or whether they vote at all. Some political scientists who study voting behavior believe that Internet voting might push the nation farther from the polls and have a detrimental impact on the voting culture. There is a strongly held belief that voting is a social activity. At the polls, the importance of voting is reinforced by seeing others from the community participating also. If voting is done from home or work, voters may lose this connection to the greater community and feel that their vote matters less. "Internet voting is like voting alone, isolated. There's a lot to be said for the collective nature of voting. Voting should be a civic ritual. "Rick Valelly, professor of political science at Swarthmore College. Source: Voting Alone, The New Republic, September 2000 The tradition of Election Day — being able to cast ballots on only one day to impact a political race — has already been changed by absentee voting, mail balloting and limited cases of early voting. Internet voting could impact it even further by widening the window of opportunity for voters to participate in elections. If voters are allowed more time to cast their ballots, candidates will have to change their strategies for campaigning. While this extra time may aid voters, it could be detrimental in cases where new information is revealed about a candidate in the final days of the campaign because once a vote is cast, it cannot be changed. Bill Taylor, senior vice president at Election.com who managed the online Arizona Democratic Primary, says %ntemet voting could give rise to a sort of New Age, laid-back democracy. " After the election, he and colleagues recounted stories about families who voted at home together and a couple who invited friends in "to share a cup ofcoffee and cast their vote online. " Source- "Can the Net Revive the Vote?" William Matthews, FWC Technology Group, September 2000 1 Cost has not been assessed Long-term cost savings may result when Internet voting is fully established, but in the short -run, expenses for equipment needs and voting services could be high. After the system has been implemented, costs are predicted to go down because fewer persons will be needed to monitor election sites. If Internet voting is provided only as an additional option, however, ballot printing costs will not decrease greatly. No estimates of total cost have been made public. The California task force did not address costs because they were not considering specific system designs. It is difficult to correctly estimate the costs of holding an Internet election because equipment and services for recent trials have been provided free -of -charge by vendors in order to promote their product and increase awareness of Internet voting. Vendors have a key role Counties and municipalities will not be able to administer Internet voting themselves. They will have to rely on vendors of online voting systems, who are pushing the development of Internet voting. As commercial enterprises, their priority is making a profit. R. Michael Alvarez, associate professor of political science at the California Institute of Technology says, "This [Internet voting] will be a very profitable area for commercial firms. And these firms have clear incentives to prod reluctant governmental agencies to move quickly on Internet voting ... [It's] clear to me that Internet voting will probably happen faster than anyone predicted and will happen faster than is good for our political system." Governments remain responsible for the accuracy and integrity of elections and must ensure their own checks and balances are in place before they move forward. Vote online instead of in line The key question is whether Internet voting will improve voter turnout. Will it attract those who usually do not participate in elections? While we will not truly know the answers until Internet voting is conducted on a greater scale, experts in the field have expressed opinions about whether or not Internet voting will encourage more people to participate in elections. In the September 2000 report, The Likely Consequences of Internet Voting for Political Representation, R. Michael Alvarez and Jonathan Nagler discuss the theory that any reform which increases turnout is likely to help the representation of people of lower socioeconomic status, since this group includes the largest proportion of nonvoters. This theory does not hold true if the reform is directed at helping prosperous people who can afford their own computers and Internet connections because it will not increase representation among other groups. They state that "if voting is made easier, it is those who already tend to vote who will take advantage of the easier voting." On the other hand, "while the rate at which persons take advantage of the easier voting is higher among the better educated, because the pool of uneducated nonvoters is so much larger — the effect of the reform is still to narrow the turnout gap between the education groups." Based on an analysis of voter turnout for the Arizona Democratic Primary conducted after the 2000 online vote, Alvarez and Nagler concluded that the elderly, the nonwhite, the unemployed and those living in rural areas were all statistically less likely to engage in Internet voting. The issue of voting culture Focusing on the culture of voting, the impact of Internet voting on turnout could be detrimental, according to Swarthmore political science professor Rick Valelly. In his article, Voting Alone, he states, "Not only will e -voting fail to reverse electoral June 2001 Perspectives Minnesota Planning 9 apathy, it will actually lead us in the wrong direction. Voting is ... a vital public ritual that increases social solidarity and binds citizens together. The history of voting in America clearly shows that the physical mechanics of voting have a huge impact on the quality of our public life." Curtis Gans, Center for the Study of the American Electorate, reminds us that Internet voting affects the process of voting, not the motivation behind it. Gans states, "The Internet idea suggests that problems with turnout are mechanical rather than motivational. We need to work on things like civic education, values, the nature of political campaigns and the way the news media cover them." A recent study supports Gans' position. In their 1999 book Nonvoters -America's No -Shows, Jack Doppelt and Ellen Shearer say it is a misconception that nonvoters would vote if only the process were easier. When they surveyed 1,001 likely nonvoters in 1996, "the impediments to registration and voting became shorthand for a palpable disconnect." They write that "the nonvoting phenomenon that encompassed 100 million Americans in 1996 and 119 million in 1998 is not about a busy America. It is about an evolution in the fabric of American society that has made voting neither a duty nor a habit nor a ritual for a growing majority of the nation's people." Although James Brent, associate professor of political science at San lose State University, agrees that motivation is important, he did conclude in a 2000 study that Internet voting will raise voter turnout. Others see online voting's effect as minimal, especially for national elections. Eve Lewis, the Sonoma County, California, registrar of voters, believes that while it may cause an immediate increase in turnout, it will not be sustained. She comments, "when absentee and mail balloting became readily available, it was followed by a drop-off in the number of people going to the regular polling places." L EXPERTS ISSUE WARNING ABOUT INTRODUCING INTERNET VOTING TOO QUICKLY In December 1999 the White House directed the National Science Foundation to conduct a study on Internet voting. The National Science Foundation in turn funded the Internet Policy Institute to conduct a workshop and produce a report that would assess the feasibility of Internet voting and define a research agenda. The workshop was conducted in October 2000 and the report prepared by a group comprised of National Science Foundation researchers, experts from the Washington -based Policy Institute, academics and election officials. It was published in March 2001. The key findings of the study are: ■ Poll site Internet voting systems offer some benefits and could be responsibly fielded within the next several election cycles. ■ Remote Internet voting systems pose significant risk to the integrity of the voting process and should not be fielded for use in public elections until substantial technical and social science issues are addressed. ■ Internet -based voter registration poses a significant risk to the integrity of the voting process and should not be implemented until an adequate authentication infrastructure is available and adopted. Source: Report of the National Workshop on Internet Voting, March 2001 David Brady, senior fellow at the Hoover Institution and also board member of Election.com, believes that Internet voting will not have a large effect on turnout for national elections. He does think it will be both popular and effective in local or union elections where detailed information can be supplied on the Internet. Impact on young voters The California Internet Voting Task Force concluded that "the introduction of Internet voting, specifically remote Internet voting, would provide a positive effect on turnout." This is due to its appeal to students and professionals age 18 to 25, currently the least likely to vote but also the most Internet savvy. The report also comments that "many pundits are predicting that the Internet will have an impact on the political process that will rival the effect television has had on our elections. If the impact of the Internet on elections is roughly similar to its impact on commerce, then the results would indeed be staggering." 10 Minnesota Planning Perspectives lune 2001 Jim Adler, president of VoteHere.net, believes that young voters will be motivated by Internet voting to participate in the electoral process. "Younger voters are completely disenfranchised. There are not many political institutions that resonate with their lifestyles. They may get involved in the process, and they are the future of the electorate and the leadership ... We're trading off that poll - site experience for a more enfranchised voting group — that's a reasonable tradeoff to make." Warren Slocum, chief elections officer in San Mateo County, California, supports Adler's comments. "There's a whole, untapped constituency of wired workers out there. Those same people tend to be 18-35 and aren't engaged in voting. Perhaps by offering them a system that mimics their lifestyle more, we'll get them to vote." According to the CBS Marketwatch.com Internet Poll conducted in early 1999, the Internet user population is skewed toward younger age groups. Those considered to be both politically active and Internet users are primarily concentrated in the 30 to 39 age group. The 18 to 30 age group is Internet savvy, but not currently politically active. Based on the survey of over 1,700 telephone respondents, the poll concluded that if Internet voting was introduced now, its users are likely to be male, married, have high educational attainment, to be age 30 to 39, to be slightly more Republican and to be white. The unknown factor is whether Internet voting would encourage more people in the 18 to 30 age group to become politically active. Internet voting trials abound Although much of the publicity about Internet voting is focusing on implementation by government, the private sector really began the trend by using the technology to count shareholder votes and determine union elections. Twenty-four states and one territory, Puerto Rico, have made Internet voting legal for the private sector and it is allowed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The states are Arizona, California, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Governments face different challenges because of voter numbers and the need to protect the democratic voting process from fraud. Government trials have occurred in Washington, Iowa, California and Arizona. Political parties in Arizona and Alaska have used the technology. The Department of Defense's Federal Voting Assistance Program screened and selected approximately 350 military personnel posted overseas to participate in an Internet voting pilot program for the 2000 election. The volunteer participants had legal voting residence in select counties in Utah, Florida, Texas and South Carolina. The number of voters from each county was kept small to avoid the possibility of the Internet voting influencing the overall outcome of the election. Software was provided for work or home computers. The votes cast over the Internet counted but participants were expected to mail absentee ballots as a backup. If this test is determined a success, there are plans to expand Internet voting to include all U.S. citizens abroad, approximately six million potential voters: private citizens, military, federal personnel and families. While many have touted the military trial as a positive example of Internet use, others declared the test to be unlawful because it violated the voter's ability to cast an anonymous ballot. PILOT PROJECTS IN OTHER STATES Alaska In January 2000, Alaska held the first online presidential straw poll, a non- binding vote. Three thousand registration forms were mailed to Republicans across Alaska. Only 18 people in Nome and 17 more in other parts of the state voted online. Arizona Arizona has claimed credit for the first binding Internet vote. In March 2000, Arizona's Democratic Party conducted its presidential primary online. About 36,000 of 86,000 votes cast were sent to election officials via the Internet. Arizona Democratic Party executive director, Cortland Coleman, credits the Internet with helping to increase the overall Democratic primary turnout six times over the 1996 results, when only 12,000 participated. It must be noted that voters' motivation to participate in the two contests is not comparable and even with the large turnout increase, only 10 percent of the state's registered Democrats voted. Since this was a primary election, only members of the party participated and it was run not by the state, but by the party Votes were cast over a four-day period from homes, work, libraries, schools, community centers, Indian reservations and polling places. The election used a two-tiered authentication system, requiring voters to provide both a PIN number sent to them by the party and some personal information such as their date of birth or the final four digits in their Social Security number. While the Arizona primary was touted as a success, several criticisms have been made about the process. Problems included incompatibility between Macintosh computers and some older personal computers with limited access to the voting site. Many people questioned the security of the online process. Although voters were required to verify their identities by providing a personal identification number, the party sent PIN numbers to all registered Democrats. Identification numbers could have easily reached someone other than the registered voter. Services and equipment were donated free to conduct the Democratic primary and the company has not provided any cost estimates or details of its online security system. In addition, the voters' rights group, Voting Integrity Project, mounted a legal challenge to the online election on grounds that Internet voting discriminated against those who lack access. In November 2000, Arizona was once again at the forefront of Internet voting. An online pilot was conducted on November 7, 2000, in Maricopa County, Arizona. The Vial was coordinated with the Arizona Secretary of State's office and county election officials. Fern precinct, with 932 registered voters near Phoenix, offered the opportunity to cast a ballot on the Internet. The pilot was open to any Arizona voter because the Internet votes were nonbinding. Voters received an identification number to vote and got a receipt once their vote was accepted. Results of the test were available election night. Two hundred and fifty votes were cast. In addition to voting for candidates, online voters were asked several questions about their perception of Internet voting. They were asked, "If Internet voting was available in your area as a voting option, would you choose to vote this way?" Ninety percent said they would. June 2001 Perspectives Minnesota Planning 11 Voting Integrity Project filed a lawsuit on January 21, 2000, to block the use of Internet voting for the Arizona Democratic Primary. The organization alleged the Arizona election violated the Voting Rights Act of 1965 because minorities and poor citizens do not have equal access to the Internet. Deborah Phillips declared, "by making voting more convenient for voters who have ready access — predominantly white — a bias is set up that boosts the potential turnout for connected voters while diluting the power of individual minority voters' ballots." Attorney General Janet Reno declared the Arizona primary in compliance with the 1965 Voting Rights Act, but lawyers for Voting Integrity Project argued that remote online voting constitutes a "version of the literacy test" once used to keep black voters from the polls. VIP failed to win a temporary injunction to stop the primary from taking place although the U.S. District Courtjudge recognized that Internet voting could result in racial discrimination. Some believe the lawsuit did not work to open up the process of voting by attracting new voters. If successful, the result would be to maintain a more closed system in which voters must make a considerable effort to participate. Ninety-three percent were moderately or very comfortable with the security of the Internet voting system. And when asked, "How would you compare the ease of use of this Internet voting system to your current method of voting?", 74 percent said Internet voting was easier, 24 percent said about the same, only 1.3 percent said their current method is easier. California California has taken a more cautious approach than Arizona and is a leader in examining the pros and cons of Internet voting. The California Task Force on Internet Voting issued a report in January 2000, discussing how Internet voting could be implemented and the concerns and benefits associated with its use. In November 2000, four counties put theory into practice by conducting tests of Internet voting systems. San Mateo, Contra Costa, Sacramento and San Diego counties allowed voters to cast nonbinding simulated ballots October 9 through November 3 on laptop computers at courthouses, city halls and community centers. It was referred to as the "2000 Internet Voting Shadow Election." California Secretary of State Bill Jones stated, "The goal is not necessarily to prove the technology side of the system, but to introduce people to the concept — whether people will adapt to it, whether they'll like it." Since the ballots did not count, any person could participate in the trial, even if they were not a registered voter. The Secretary of State is required to certify new voting systems and coordinated the shadow election with the counties to see whether the new models worked. In San Mateo County, all four test sites were linked to the county's network. Voters' addresses were called up at the site and a customized "ballot" was provided after voters provided a 10 -digit security code. San Mateo County tested touchscreen technology in November 2000, with voters casting their ballots by touching the candidate's name. Ballots were provided in English, Spanish and Chinese. Headsets and raised keypads were made available for sight -impaired voters. Bill Jackson, the election division manager for San Mateo County, reports the test went well but "Internet voting hasn't proven whether it can be utilized in a live election." Governor Gray Davis vetoed a bill in September 2000 to test Internet voting in three counties in the 2000 general election. Concerns about security and fraud were 12 Minnesota Planning Perspectives June 2001 the governor's reasons for vetoing the legislation that would have allowed online votes to count in the election. The bill proposed the use of Internet voting as a supplementary method of voting in local elections, any regularly scheduled or special county, municipal or district primary or general election in up to three participating counties selected by the secretary of state. The legislative author plans to reintroduce the bill for debate in 2001. Iowa In November 1999, Iowans in Woodbury and Johnson counties participated in a pilot program conducted by the Iowa Secretary of State's office. Voters could cast nonbinding Internet votes at their polling places. Secretary of State Chet Culver stated that the test was "designed to test the viability of the system and the willingness of voters to participate through the Internet." Over 1,200 voters tested the system and 83 percent said they would be willing to vote by Internet again. Although Internet voting is geared toward attracting younger voters, older Iowans participated and felt comfortable with the process. Washington In April 1999, residents of Shelton, Washington, cast a -votes for a special school district vote, which featured mostly questions about school policy. On a larger scale, Thurston County, Washington, which includes Tacoma and Olympia, tested Internet voting in February 2000 with a non-binding Internet election held in conjunction with the state's February primary. The county's focus was on voter convenience and increasing turnout. The county has also experimented with voting by mail since 1993. For the test, the county issued 10 -digit personal identifi- cation numbers. Voters could use the Internet to vote over an 18 -day period ending Election Day and could vote from home, work and traditional polling places. Over 3,000 people voted online and 90 percent approved of the method and security. Online voting is used by non-government bodies Vendors are also marketing their voting systems to schools and colleges. In September 2000, Cornell University in Ithaca, New York conducted an online election for the freshman class, with about 1,200 participants voting via the Internet. The school is planning another Internet election in March 2001 with 19,000 students expected to participate. Other schools have also experimented with online voting. A recent large-scale test of Internet voting was Youth -e -Vote 2000, a national mock election for students to cast Internet votes for president, senate, house and governor. This is considered by many to be the first national online vote in the U.S. Students registered through their school and were given identification numbers so each student could only vote once. Voting began on October 23 and results were made available on November 2, so student choices would not get lost in election night coverage. Over 1.3 million students in over 9,000 schools participated. "Youth -e -Vote is an effort to use the young's own medium to turn today's students into tomorrow's voters — and to facilitate the teaching and learning of more civics in the schools," according to Youth -e -Vote founder Doug Bailey. A youth vote was also held in the United Kingdom, which allowed students to vote for candidates in the U.S. presidential election. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, the technical coordination body for the Internet, conducted an online election for its board of directors, regarded as the "first international cyberelection." Voting was allowed from October 1 to October 10, 2000. Over 75,000 members worldwide were mailed unique voting PIN numbers. Approximately 25,000 cast ballots online but the process had several glitches that hampered the election process. IMPACT OF ELECTION 2000 Experts are agreed that the events in Florida during the 2000 presidential election will impact how elections are conducted in the future. It is expected that Congress will urge changes on the states, who will urge them on local governments. As they look to upgrade their voting systems, many jurisdictions may consider Internet voting, but whatever improvements are made, it is anticipated that the road to change will not be a smooth one. "This election ... demonstrates the potential value of Internet voting at a number of levels It would facilitate vote counting and make recounting a thing of the past. " John Pavlik, journalism professor at Columbia University "This year's presidential election woes promise to boost the sales of companies that provide computer-based systems. "David Jefferson, technical committee chair for the California Internet Voting Task Force and senior staff at Compaq "If a county has to choose between a variety ofjails, hospitals and Are protection, it's easy to delay upgrading their whole election system because it's not a life -or death issue. " Larry Naake, of the Association of Counties "One of the problems with a hurried move to Internet voting is that people don't understand computers any better than poorly designed punch -card ballots " Lorrie Faith Cranor, AT&T Labs National political parties also test Internet voting At the 2000 Democratic Party National Convention, delegates cast their votes for presidential nominee via computer kiosks located on the convention floor. Republicans had the opportunity to be the first to use online voting but decided not to use it for their convention. The Reform Party gave delegates an opportunity to cast their ballots for the party's presidential nominee online August 7 through 9, 2000. Over the three days, 5,437 delegates voted online. In July, personal identification and voter registration numbers were mailed to over 870,000 delegates. According to Sharon Gilpin, eBallot.net, the voting window was kept small to "ensure a secure process, despite party officials' willingness to keep it open longer." The voting was considered successful although the outcome was affected by a fight over party control. What is happening in Minnesota? Minnesota is moving forward with new options in technology and voting systems, but is currently not involved in Internet voting. According to the Secretary of State's election division director, current state law does not permit Internet voting and the office is not pursuing legislative action. The Secretary of State, Mary Kiffmeyer, is concerned about the security of the system and prefers to wait for the technology to develop further. She is also concerned about the culture and integrity of the process, believing that voting should occur only on Election Day. Minnesota Senator John Marty, former chair of the Minnesota Senate Election Laws Committee, believes the state should encourage Internet voting as another option for voters. Over the years, Marty has pursued expanding Minnesota's absentee voting process to a no-fault system and permitting voting by fax, another issue related to putting the voting system in sync with technology innovations. June 2001 Perspectives Minnesota Planning 13 Minnesota Senator Steve Kelley believes the state should be studying the issue, although previous trials, such as those done in Washington state, show the need for caution. Kelley has advocated that Minnesota should be up-to-date on the issues surrounding Internet voting and should develop the in-house capacity to use the technology. In 1999, Kelley introduced a bill requesting the Secretary of State to study Internet voting and its potential implementation in Minnesota. A similar measure was introduced in the Minnesota House. Neither bill got out of committee due to lack of support. Although the Secretary of State's office is cautious about voting online, the foundation is being laid. Minnesota is pursuing technology to aid blind and sight - impaired voters at the polls. In 2000, Minnesota launched the nation's first precinct -level Web -based reporting system. Results were provided for Minnesota's races for U.S. Senator, U.S. Representative, State Senate, State House of Representatives, state judiciary and others. Starting at 8:00 p.m. Election Night, the system provided regularly updated numbers at the Secretary of State's Web page — www.sos.state.mn.us. When will Internet voting become commonplace? While there is some expectation that Internet voting will be a key element in the electoral process in the future, opinion is mixed on how quickly this might happen. There is, however, a strong body of opinion that the 2004 election is a critical one for the implementation of online voting.. According to Christopher Baum with the Gartner Group, a Connecticut-based technology research firm, states will be experimenting with online voting by the next presidential election. "It's not going to be universal by 2004, and it will never be truly universal because some people will still choose to go to the polling place, and they should be able to," he says. Steve Clift, the Minneapolis-based editor of Democracies Online Newswire, says it won't be embraced by all states by 2004. Debate may take until 2010 because state legislatures have to examine how to fund online initiatives. Clift also reminds that commercial goals are driving the development of Internet voting systems. In 2001, the vendor Election.com is scheduled to conduct about 40 elections for public sector jurisdictions. CEO Jim Mohen predicts "the nation will be e -voting within five years, substantially raising turnout among minority and low- income groups." In January 2000, the Brookings Institution and Cisco Systems, Inc., an Internet voting vendor, sponsored a symposium "The Future of Internet Voting." At the symposium, New York Governor George Pataki stated that instituting Internet voting by 2004 is the "private sector attitude." He is "not quite as optimistic [from a government viewpoint] but we're going to try to make sure that Internet voting does become a reality," once questions of integrity and access are addressed. California Governor Gray Davis stated that he believes Americans will be Internet voting within five to seven years. Other countries are examining the potential of Internet voting but are also in the pilot project stage. In Britain, legislation is in place to allow for online voting using digital signatures, so that each voter can be identified. This has not yet been tested at a general election. Croatians were permitted to cast online votes even though only a small percentage are connected to the Internet. They cast their first online votes in Croatia in January 2000 and then again in their runoff election in February. In February 1999, the "Election systems must meet standards with regard to security, secrecy, equity, and many other criteria, making Internet voting much more challenging than most electronic commercial or electronic government applications." Source: Report of the National Work- shop on Internet Voting, March 2001 14 Minnesota Planning Perspectives lune 2001 world's first national electronic voting trial was held in New Zealand. Twenty-one thousand volunteers, approximately 1 percent of the voting population, were given the opportunity to try Internet voting for fictitious candidates. In the United States and in other countries, many election officials are taking a wait- and-see approach to Internet voting because of concerns about the integrity of elections conducted online. They worry that the new system may be compromised and such a situation would cause all voters to lose faith in the election process. Kansas Secretary of State Ron Thornburgh expresses the opinion of many election officials: "We're not going to be the last, but we're not going to be the first, either. On elections, you get one shot at it. I want somebody else to work out the kinks." Technology needs are fundamental In order for Internet voting to be implemented, technology concerns relating to security and integrity of the system must be addressed. The California Internet Voting Task Force states that additional technical innovations are necessary before voting from home or office computers can be considered. But current technology may be good enough to permit Internet voting from polling places. Avi Rubin, computer scientist at AT&T Labs, states in Security Considerations for Remote Electronic Voting over the Internet, "Given the current state of insecurity of hosts and the vulnerability of the Internet to manipulation and denial of service attacks, there is no way that a public election of any significance involving remote electronic voting could be carried out securely." He believes we need to wait for the next generation of personal computers that can secure the link between the voter and the election server. Lorrie Faith Cranor, researcher at AT&T Labs supports Rubin's position. She states that pure online elections which voters could participate in from work or from the comfort of their own living room may never materialize, in part because of the inherent instability and insecurity of personal computers. "I think it's going to be a number of years before people in the security community feel comfortable endorsing online voting, because most are going to wait until secure computer platforms are in widespread use." But even with problems, she expects some states and local governments to use some form of online voting within the next four years. What does the public thinlO Regardless of what the voting experts and the vendors think, the public must be willing to accept Internet voting before it is implemented on a large scale. A multitude of surveys have been conducted to determine if American voters are ready to cast their ballots online. Some show support for Internet voting; others do not. A survey by Andersen Consulting conducted in July 2000 showed that a majority of those responding would be comfortable casting their votes online. Of the 300 registered voters surveyed nationwide, 71 percent would be "comfortable" with online voting in general. If it were possible to vote for president online, 61 percent said they would use it. In September 2000, the Council for Excellence in Government, a nonpartisan research group, released a survey that found that three in five Americans surveyed oppose online voting due to concerns about security. Wiredmagazine conducted a survey of 815 adults in February 2000 and learned that people are interested in online voting but have concerns about privacy of the process. Sixty-seven percent of those considered "very wired," by their use of four or more of the following technologies — the Internet, cellular or wireless phone, a computer, a fax, e-mail, online banking and shopping — would try voting online if given the opportunity. Of those using one of the technologies, 42 percent would always vote online as would 26 percent of people surveyed who were "not wired." Although Internet voting enjoys some public support, according to Alvarez's research it is barely at the 45 to 50 percent level in public opinion polls at a time where there has been no strong effort to oppose it. The public appears to be at least somewhat interested in online voting, but some believe that the recent promotion of Internet voting has been driven, not by voters, but by vendors of online voting services and software. Bill Kimberling, deputy director of the Office of Elections for the Federal Election Commission says, "The bottom line behind this push is money. The noise being made to begin Internet voting is vendor - generated because a lot of new software and hardware will be needed to make it happen." The report of the National Workshop on Internet Voting contends that an important result of the 2000 general election is that it has brought about about a rare oppor- tunity for election reform. As a result there is likely to be substantial public and political pressure to adopt remote Internet voting in the near future. In these circumstances the writers believe that extensive research is essential so that policy makers will have the requisite information to make responsible decisions regarding the deployment of Internet voting systems. The report stresses the importance of achieving balance between security, convenience and cost and the need for any research to be conducted in an interdisciplinary manner, involving election officials, social scientists and information technologists. ■ June 2001 Perspectives Minnesota Planning 15 Sources Adler, Jim. Online Voting Primer. VoteHere.net, Bellevue, Washington, 1999. Alvarez, Michael R. and Nagler, Jonathan. The Likely Consequences of Internet Voting for Political Representation. Internet Voting and Democracy Symposium, September 2000. Cranor, Lorrie Faith. Electronic Voting. Crossroads, Association For Computing Machinery, www.acm.org, 1996. Dictson, Derek and Ray, Daniel. The Modern Democratic Revolution: An objective survey of Internet -based Elections. SecurePoll.com, January 2000. Dictson, Derek and Ray, Daniel. federal Election Commission: Voting System Standards. SecurePoll.com and the Bush School of Government and Public Service, Texas A&M University, May 2000. Doppelt, lack and Shearer, Ellen. Nonvoters,• America's No Shows. Sage Publications Inc., 1999. Gerck, Ed, Ph.D. Wouldyou vote naked? The Bell, lune 2000. Gerck, Ed, Ph.D, Overview of Certification Systems The Bell, July 2000. Hurd, Jim. The Private Sector Won't Wait. The Bell, July 2000. Internet Policy Institute. ReportofNational Workshop on Internet Voting, March 2001. Matthews, William. Can the net revive the vote?FWC Government Technology Group. www.fwc.com, September 2000. National Telecommunications and Information Administration. falling Through the Net Towards Digital Inclusion. U.S. Department of Commerce, October 2000. Nolan, Claire. States open voting laws to boost turnout. Stateline.org. November 2000. Phillips, Deborah M. and Jefferson, David. Is Intemet Voting Safe?Voting Integrity Project Reports, 1998. Richardson, Lilliard E. and Neeley, Grant W. Implementation ofEaNy Voting, Spectrum, Summer 1996. Rubin, Avi. Security Considerations for Remote Electronic Voting Over the Internet. AT&T Labs, Research, October 2000. Sostek, Anya. Vote Naked? Not Yet. Goveming.com, October 2000. Sostek, Anya. Goodbye Mr. Chad. Governing.com, January 2001. Toplikar, David. E -voting still on the horizon, security issues unresolved. SecurePoll.com, November 2000. Valelly, Rick. Voting Alone. The New Republic, September 2000. Woodward, Victor. The Evolution of /ntemet Voting. Mapping the future of Democracy. The Bell, June 2000. MINNESOTA PLANNING CRITICAL ISSUES Minnesota Planning develops long-range plans for the state, stimulates public participation in Minnesota's future and coordinates activities among state agencies, the Minnesota Legislature and other units of government. The Critical Issues Team at Minnesota Planning examines emerging issues that could have a significant effect on Minnesota's governments, its people, economy and natural resources. Click and Vote: Citizenship on the /ntemet was prepared by Becky Buhler and Sandra Stalker and is available on the Minnesota Planning Internet site at www. mnplan.state. mn. us. Upon request, this document will be made available in an altemate format, such as Braille, large print or audio tape. For TTY, contact Minnesota Relay Service at 800-627-3529 and ask for Minnesota Planning. For additional printed copies, contact: 14 N PLANNING CRITICAL ISSUES Room 300 658 Cedar St. St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-3985 www. m n p l a n. sta te. m n. u s June 2001 First Class U.S. Postage PAID 14 N Permit No. 171 Room 300 St. Paul, MN 658 Cedar Street St. Paul, MN 55155 SHINGLE CREEK WATERSHED MONAGEMENT COMMISSION 3001 Harbor Lane • Suite 150 • Plymouth, MN 55447 Telephone (763)553-1144 • FAX (763)553-9326 MINUTES May 10, 2001 A meeting of the Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission was called to order by Vice Chairman Dave Nummer on Thursday, May 10, 2001, at 12:48 p.m. at Lancer at Edinburgh, 8700 Edinbrook Crossing, Brooklyn Park, MN. Present were: Graydon Boeck, Brooklyn Center, Kevin Larson, Brooklyn Park; Gerry Butcher, Maple Grove; Barbara Johnson, Minneapolis; Mark Hanson, New Hope; Fred Moore, Plymouth; Nummer and Mike Liles, Robbinsdale; Joe Bischoff and Ed Matthiesen, Montgomery Watson; Dan Greensweig, Kennedy & Graven; and Judie Anderson, Recording Secretary. Also present: Diane Spector, TAC, Brooklyn Center; and Alison Fong, Minneapolis. L Minutes. Motion by Butcher, second by Boeck to approve the minutes of the April meeting of the Commission. Motion carried. H. Treasurer's Report Motion by Boeck, second by Moore to approve the Treasurer's Report. Motion carried. III. Approval of Claims. Motion by Boeck, second by Larson to approve the claims. Claims were approved by roll call vote: ayes - Boeck, Larson, Butcher, Johnson, Hanson, Moore, and Nummer; nays - none; absent - Crystal and Osseo. IV. Correspondence. A. Communications Log. No action required. B. 2000 Audit Report. Motion by Boeck, second by Larson to receive the report. Motion carried. Anderson will transmit to State Auditor and member cities. C. 2000 Annual Report. Motion by Moore, second by Larson to receive the report. Motion carried. Anderson will transmit to state agencies, county libraries and member cities. D. Watershed Assistance Grants (WAG) from EPA. Staff will investigate possible projects for funding. E. Commission has received letters from concerned citizens re Phase 4 of the Highway 100 Reconstruction. F. The Commissioners received the following: 1. Notice of Jurisdictional Delineation of Wetlands - Training Course by BWSR. 2. Announcement of MAWD Summer Tour - June 28-30. 3. Registration form for 2001 Local Water Planners Conference - June 27-28. V. Water Quality. A. Bischoff presented a listing of water quality projects needed in the Shingle Creek watershed along with funding requirements. Five projects were identified -- Phase II Twin Lake Nutrient Study and BROOKLYN CENTER - BROOKLYN PARK • CRYSTAL • MAPLE GROVE • MINNEAPOLIS • NEW HOPE • OSSEO • PLYMOUTH • ROBBINSDALE Minutes j'- SHINGLE CREEK WATERSHED MANAGEMENT COMMISSION May,91,12001 !„� Z2 page 2 Wetland Loading Study; Event Sampling and Monitoring; Watershed Reconnaissance; Winter Sampling; and Biomonitoring. Motion by Larson, second by Hanson to replace COD with fecal coliform monitoring in the 2001 water quality program in order to improve load statistics. Motion carried. Motion by Boeck, second by Butcher to increase the line item for Reconnaissance in the 2001 budget from $6,000 to $7,000, and reducing Projects Reviews from $25,000 to $24,000. Motion carried. B. Impaired Waters Designation. The Commission should receive final approval of the work plan soon. Monitoring will begin in the fall. VI. Project Reviews. There were no projects this month. VII. Wetland Conservation Act (WCA). There were no WCA projects this month. VIII. Other Business. A. Second Generation Plan. Spector guided the Commissioners through a revised draft of Second Generation Plan Planning Process (5/10/01). Motion by Johnson, second by Boeck to adopt pages 8-10 of the draft. Motion carried. 1. Motion by Butcher, second by Hanson to amend the 2001 Budget in order to enter into contracts with consultant Paul Nelson ($5,000) and the Hennepin Conservation District ($6,000) so as to proceed with the second generation planning process. Funds will be taken from reserves. Motion carried. 2. Motion by Butcher, second by Boeck directing the attorney to develop and the Chair to sign these contracts. Motion carried. 3. The next meeting of the Steering Committee will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, June 14, 2001, at Lancer at Edinburgh. 4. Motion by Boeck, second by Hanson to approve and send the "public forum letter" and questionnaire, along with the history of the Commission, to City Managers, County Commissioners, State Senators and Representatives, and Mayors. Motion carried. Response will be requested by June 14. Anderson will investigate forum sites. B. 2002 Budget. Deputy Treasurer Spector presented a draft budget for 2002. A meeting of the Commission to formalize a budget will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 14, 2001, at Lancer. C. Nummer announced he will be relocating to Michigan. An election to fill the position of Vice Chair will take place at the June meeting. There being no further business before the Commission, motion by Hanson, second by Nummer to adjourn. Motion carried. The meeting was adjourned at 2:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, jj-�� 9 - Judie A. Anderson Recording Secretary JAA:tim J:\CLIENTS\W\WATERSHE\SHINGLEC\OIMTGS\2001MAY2. WPD BROOKLYN CENTER . BROOKLYN PARK • CRYSTAL . MAPLE GROVE . MINNEAPOLIS . NEW HOPE • OSSEO . PLYMOUTH . ROBBINSDALE June 17, 2001 Plymouth City Council Plymouth City Hall 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Council Members, I am a 15 -year resident of the City of Plymouth. I have seen many things grow, including bus service. For 7 years I worked downtown and was amazed at how quickly and easily I could ride downtown on the Metrolink. To any of you responsible for this service I give applause. My company moved to Hopkins Crossroads and 394 about 20 months ago. While I like working so close to home, it presented issues for getting to work. Busing downtown and back out is not a good option! Thanks to assistance from George Bentley, I was able to hook up with Plymouth Dial -A -Ride. Not a perfect system but it worked to get me to the office. I had surgery at the end of October, and since then I have been getting a run-around from Laidlaw Transit. I am enclosing my letter to Mr. Matthews, and asking for help in getting service to and from work. I am also curious to learn how this service is funded. The cost I pay cannot cover the cost of running the buses. Do tax dollars come into play? As a renter, I pay a high property tax through my rent, and I would like to know if this is funding a service that can't be provided to me due to poor attitude on the part of Laidlaw. Sincerely, Kathieen Due -Lund 3940 Lancaster Lane #327 Plymouth MN 55441 952-594-7630 763-525-0202 June 17, 2001 John Matthews, Manager Laidlaw Transit 3400 Spring Street NE Minneapolis MN 55413-2910 Dear Mr. Matthews: I am a very unhappy resident of the City of Plymouth, who would like to be using your Plymouth Dial - A -Ride services. Nineteen month's ago, with the assistance of George Bentley, I began using the Dial -a -Ride service to get to and from work. After several months of winter I stopped taking the bus home but I continued to take the bus to work until the end of October 2000, when I had surgery. I informed your company that I would need to stop my morning standing order for 6 weeks while I recuperated. I was told that instead of canceling my order, they would put me on hold, reserving my place on the bus so I could be sure of getting back on the route. I had to extend my leave until the beginning of January and I called at the end of December to resume m rides beginning Tuesday, January 2°d. I was told that was fine, I was on the list. On January 2° I waited for the bus and finally had to call for a ride to work. I later called to ask what had happened and to confirm pickup for Wednesday. I was then told there was no room on the bus and I could not ride for at least 3 weeks. After 3 weeks I called again and was told I could not ride — no space, for several more weeks. A couple weeks ago I called to start riding again with a standing order. I was told fine, they could pick me up at 7:15 am. and have me to work at 7:30 a.m., but I would need to call in every day for 2 weeks fust. On Friday of that week I called to set up a ride for Monday, and was told I could not get a ride. After pushing I was told best you could do was pick me up at 6:45 a.m. but could not guarantee when I would arrive and that it could be a long ride. I was told a driver had quit and to call back in September. I know there is one other person on my street who lives by me and works close to me. She had rides picking her up at 7:15 am. and getting her to work at 7:30 a.m. — was she also dumped? If this is the driver who quit, are you not trying to replace him until September? Let me point out: • During my riding days I was NEVER a no-show, • I was stood up by you many times and left scrambling to get to work, • I had a bus driver run a red light across Highway 55 during rush hour at night, • When you added someone to the route who took all of us living/working along Highway 169 & 55 over to Vicksburg to the library, I stayed with the route, even though it lengthened the ride, • That the quality of service and the attitude I get when I call in depends on who answers the phone — and no one ever gives their name or provides a name willingly. -L -3;p- From the enclosures, let me point out: • Plymouth Dial -A -Ride states that I can reserve multiple trips with just one phone call but I was not given that option. It also discusses no-shows but I have sat many times for the same no-show • Laidlaw Transit Services Promises state that policies and procedures support treating communities you serve with honor and respect, you stand by your word, every individual contributes to dependability What I want, Mr. Matthews, is to have Dial -A -Ride service to work and back every day, getting me there by 7:30 a.m. and picking me up after 3:30 p.m., five days a week, without spending forever on the bus. I know routes can change daily, and I am willing to be flexible. Right now I am without a ride and that is difficult. I know you are the one game in town, but the attitude I get from your dispatcher is that I am here for your advantage, and you are not here to provide service to the community or me. I would appreciate having you call me so we can discuss this situation. If we cannot resolve transport, I need to discuss a refund of my 10 -ride punch card with 8 rides left that the drive urged me to purchase. My phone numbers are provided below. Sincerely, 0y Kathleen Due -Lund 3940 Lancaster Lane #327 Plymouth MN 55441 Work: 952-594-7630 Home: 763-525-0202 Enclosures — 2 Plymouth Dial -A -Ride `Service & Scheduling' page 1 Laidlaw Transit Services `Our Promises' page 1 CC: Mark Wells, Senior Mgr, Business Standards & Client Services — Laidlaw Transit Susan Spry, National Director of Business Development, - Laidlaw Transit George Bentley, Transportation Consultant, City of Plymouth Joy Tierney, Mayor, City of Plymouth Elwyn Tinklenberg, Commissioner, MN Department of Transportation Plymouth City Council Welcome to Laidlaw Transit Services, Inc. C HEWS RELEASES About Laidlaw Transit Services Our Promises Page 1 of 2 At Laidlaw Transit Services, our philosophy is simple --Make a promise, keep promise. We feel the word "promise" denotes more than a simple guarantee. It get: to the heart of what we do everyday. To each of our clients, passengers, anc employees, our promises are as follows: 1. Conduct ourselves professionally and honorably Decisions are principled and enhance our commitments. Company communication., are positive, open, and honest. Policies, procedures and programs support treatinc employees and the communities we serve with honor and respect. Employess are well mannered and ethical. 2. Honor our commitments to customers LTS stands by its word. Proposals and contracts are accurate statements of ou ability to deliver agreed upon services. Company statements are truthful. LT; people work together to make this happen. 3. Provide safe, dependable service Safety means freedom from harm. There can be nothing more important than the safety of our people and those we transport. Everyone we transport depends on us to get them to and from their destination They trust that we will fulfill this promise day in and day out. Under normal condition: passengers can expect us to be on schedule. Under adverse conditions passenger: can trust us to be safe. LTS never compromises safety. Every individual at LTS contributes to safety and dependability. 4. Partner for constant improvement Transit operations are enhanced while in our care. We actively participate with stakeholders to identify issues and solve problems. We use thoughtful analysis to improve operations and decision-making. Timer communications are used to inform those that will be affected by proposed changes Improvements are evaluated to ensure effectiveness and permanency. 5. Positive community impact LTS provides an atmosphere where employees are proud to work and passenger: happy to ride. We keep clean, well maintained properties and vehicles. LTS leader: are actively involved in local transit councils and advisory boards. We encourage employees to get involved in local community activities. LTS assists in community emergency planning and provides transportation services for crisis situations an( special needs. Our efforts ensure that value is returned to the communities we serve. Home Page I Our Purpose I Our Promises I Our People I Our Services News I Locations I Jobs I Contacts I Pre -Owned Buses http://www.laidlayAmsit.com/public/promises.asp 6/17/01 t'tymuuth NIN - Public Transit - Dial -A -Ride Page 1 of 2 Plymouth Dial -A -Ride Service PLYMOUTH Dial -A -Ride is shared door-to-door transit service ' for Plymouth residents and their guests. A deluxe minibus will take you anywhere in Plymouth as well as to Ridgedale Shopping Center, Wayzata Bay Center, Golden Valley Center or the K -Mart in DIAL•A•R/DE New Hope. Use Dial -A -Ride for trips to work, school, medical appointments, shopping, or other needs. Scheduling Advance reservations are encouraged. You can reserve your ride up to five working days in advance of your trip. You can also reserve multiple trips during ' those five working days with just one phone call. The reservations line is 763- 559-5057 and is open from 8 a.m. to 5} p.m., Monday through Friday. Tell the reservationist the day, time, and place you want to go. Also, be sure to request wheelchair assistance if needed rides are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Same-day No-shows, riders who make a reservation and then are not present when the bus arrives to pick them up, cost the system a great deal of money and often cause other passengers unnecessary delays. To avoid problems with the new extended reservations system, Plymouth Metrolink Dial -A -Ride will also be enforcing a new no-show policy. Anyone who does not cancel their reservation within 48 hours of their scheduled pick-up time on three occasions during any 30 day period will be suspended from using the Dial -A -Ride system for the next 30 days. This policy will also be enforced for riders using standing orders. The purpose of the no-show policy is to discourage abuse of the system which diminishes its value for others. Three no-shows are provided to allow for occasional illnesses or other unforeseen problems. Please call 763-509-5519 to cancel your reservation more than two days in advance of your ride. If you have any questions about Dial -A -Ride, call 763-509-5521. If you need Metro Mobility service, please call 651-221-0015. 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'G) m G) no 0 i CD C:)w cn-°x 3 "� � /� n N to o m v> > (D Ca CD O CD N w CD a. 0 m cn ? m 0 c -, an° Q.`�nr. cr0 t� 1 117 r� Q =r o O 0 O Jun 1H Z001 14:00:50 Via Fax -> 61Z+509+5860 Administrator S��c Page 881 Of 001 SPACIAL MONDAY EDITION 4 LMC w,ywoMMiwn..vts C9e1« I Ax L�- Number 24 FMOWKW a A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Cities June 18, 2001 Saturday ineeting of Tax Working Group --Three steps back At their meeting Saturday, the House/ Senate working group on taxes seemed to move farther away from a compromise to complete the state's budget and resolve the session. The meeting began with an offer by the House and then a counter offer from the Senate. The Senate counter offer included a proposal to pass the sales tax rebate immediately (today) Speaker Sviggum indicated the House wanted one tax bill that would include the rebate At that point, the negotiations took a turn for the worse as Sen Larry Pogemiller voiced his displeasure with a Republican radio advertisement that apparently blasted the Senate for disrupting the state's budget and not returning the rebate to citizens. Pogemiller then demanded the Speaker contact the Republican Party to have them pull the ad or correct the message Over the previous two days and up to the point of the Saturday break- down in negotiations, the working group made modest progress on several issues, including levy limits The House's Saturday offer would use the 2001 actual levy and aids as a starting point for the levy limit calculation. Under the bill as passed on the House floor, levy limits were based on an inflated 2000 levy plus aid base. This change will make levy limits less onerous for cities that had larger levy increases for pay 2001 taxes. The Saturday House proposal also included a sales tax exemptions for city and county purchases of roid materials and equipmer. This exemption was somevvhat unexpect- ed, but was described by Speaker Sviggum as a small step toward exempting local government pur- chases. The proposed exemption would mirror the current law provision that exempts purchase by townships of gravel, machinery, equipment, and accessories used exclusively for road and bridge maintenance and for certain motor vehicles used exclusively for road maintenance. Over the past week, the group has spent considerable time discussing municipal aids, including LGA and HACA In their Friday offer, the Senate reduced their proposed increase for city aids by approximately $30 million Prior to that reduction, the Senate was increasing LGA by $168 million, eliminating HACA, and creating a neu+C/I tax base replace- ment aid that would provide cities with approximately $51 million per year On Thursday, the House increased their proposal to increase LGA by an additional $10 million or by a total of $99 million per year The House also eliminates HACA Although the two sides continue to be millions of dollars apart on LGA, there has been more movement in the last few days than in the last month According to lobbyists who have haunted the Capitol halls for many years, the last time we had an event anything like the current stalemate was the 1971 struggle to enact the reforms that would eventually become known as the Minnesota Miracle. The tr x wor'ing group will reconvene tori=�� at I p m The House floor se,zO>n is s0ed0ed for 11 a m.; the Senate floor session is scheduled for 5 p m without any major break- throughs, the floor sessions will likely be relatively short What happens if the state shuts downs' The League has received many phone calls about the potential city implications if the budget impasse is not resolved in the next few days Here are a few issues to consider, Delay in distribution of 2001 state aid payments. City LGA and HACA are paid on or around July 20 If a state shutdown occurs, the Dept of Revenue and the Dept. of Finance will not have the personnel to distribute the pay- ments. Delay in certification of pay 2002 state aid payments. Cities need official notification of pay 2002 aid amounts for budget planning purposes Delay in certification of pay 2002 levy limits. The House bill includes two years of levy limits, beginning with levies set this fall for payment in 2002 The Senate and the governor have apparently agreed to levy limits You may not immediately receive notification of your levy limit. Delay in distribution ofMunici- pal State Aid (MSA) road funds. The next maintenance payment scheduled for July 20 could be delayed Local city sales taxes. For most cities with local option sales taxes, the Dept of Revenue administers tax collections. A shutdown could impact the distribution of these local sales tax revenues, which could affect the ability of some cities to make debt payments that are supported by these revenues For more information on city legislative issues, contact any member of the League of Minnesota Cities intergovernmental Relations team. AMM FAX HEWS June 18-22, 2001 Levy Limits, Transit Funding Agreements Made by Tax Working Group 0 n Tuesday .lune 19, the tax -working group agreed to a two-year levy limit and removing metropolitan transit property taxes from the levy. The working group agreed to a levy limit that is the greater of either a two- year increase starting with the 2000 levy revenue base or a one- year increase on the actual levy for 2001 taxes minus bonded debt and other levies considered special levies. This ensures that cities, which have been frugal, will not lose the excess cushion in their revenue base nor will cities that had a relatively large levy increase for 2001 be cut short in 2002 with no increase. Revenue base equals levy plus aid. Increases are based on the Implicit Price Deflator (IPD), household growth, and one-half new CII growth. The actual levy limit is revenue base minus aid. AMM News For Is faxed to all AMM city manngers and adminlstrarors, legislative contacts and Board member&. Please share thisfiu with your mayors, councilmembers and staff to keep them abreast of impor- tant metra city Issue& 145 Univenity Avenue West SL Paul, MN 55103-2044 Phone: (651) 215-4000 Fax: (651) 281-1299 E-mail: dowj@amm]45.org They working group also agreed to have the motor vehicle sales tax (MVST) replace the operating levies of the metropolitan and rural transit authorities. The working group approved a motion that would have 20.5% of the MVST pay for metropolitan transit levies and I % of the MVST pay for outstate transit. The working group could increase the state tax portion if it is part of a general agreement be- tween legislative leadership and the Governor. SM2,11 VANI association of Metropolitan Municipalities LGA: Update The amount of new local government aid (LGA) continues to be an unresolved issue. The House has proposed an LGA increase of $98.0 million. The latest House offer also recommends that city and county road equipment and materials purchases be ex- empted from the sales tax. The House offer is an increase over its original LGA proposal. The Senate on Tuesday proposed a total increase of $154.0 million or a decrease from its original position of $219.0 million. Tax Increment Financing "rhe League of Minnesota Cities coordinated a survey of cities to determine the status of TIF districts and proposed develop- ments. Approximately fifty cities responded to the survey. The survey reported that the cities have identified 74 districts that have requested certification, negotiated or are negotiating development agreements and have or commit- ted to expend funds on public improvements and or land acquisi- tion. The information will be reviewed as the working group attempts to develop a position*on TIF.'In dis- cussing TIF the working group outlined three concepts that could assist districts in coping with the impacts of the tax reform. Among them are permitting the authority to retain all tax proceeds generated by the local tax rate and not being limited to the certified rate, extend- ing a district for up to five years and broadening the pooling rules. The concepts could also be prerequi- sites for applying for the grant program. The Senate has funded a two year $250.0 million grant program while the house has a three year $195.0 million program. 188 10 188 aspd uosuyor }Kaina 898S+68S+Z19 <- xp3 PiA 9Z:8ib:Z1 tBBZ TZ unr SUBURBAN TRANSIT ASSOCIATION LEGISLATIVE REPORT REPORT 2001-3 MONDAY, JUNE 18, 2001 LEGISLATIVE STALEMATE CONTINUES As this newsletter goes to print, an overall tax and budget agreement has yet to be reached by state lawmakers. If this stalemate continues beyond June 30, the end of the fiscal year, a number of state government services and programs will come to a halt due to lack of funding. Essential services such as public safety, correctional facilities, etc. would continue to operate as they do on state holidays and other occasions when most state offices are closed. As best we can tell, transit service providers, even those whose property tax levy is collected by the Metropolitan Council, would not experience fiscal impacts from a state government shutdown. The root of the problem facing legislative leadership and the Governor's office is an inability to reach consensus on the structure of property tax reform and relief. The proposed property tax reform, the centerpiece of which is a state takeover of K-12 general education funding, is a costly endeavor. Because there is a projected budget surplus over the next several years, the Legislature has a window of opportunity to implement landmark property tax reform. The difficulty that this opportunity represents is becoming more and more clear as the stalemate continues. Philosophical differences among the House Republicans, Senate Democrats, and Independence Party Governor have thwarted an easy resolution. House Republicans are adamant that business property taxpayers receive substantial relief, arguing that these properties have historically borne a disproportionate tax burden. Senate Democrats would like to see more of the projected surplus invested in education, with less tax relief going to commercial -industrial property. We will do our best to keep you updated as progress is made on reaching consensus. The STA Legislative Report is prepared by Tom Poul and Liz Shields Keating Messerli & Kramer P.A., 145 University Avenue West, Suite 450, St. Paul, MN 55103 Telephone(651)228-9757 Fax(651)228-9787 DISCUSSION CONTINUES ON MECHANICS OF TAKING TRANSIT OFF PROPERTY TAX While nothing is certain until the final Omnibus Tax Bill is passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor, it appears highly likely that the transit operating levy will be eliminated and replaced by a statutory dedication of the sales tax on motor vehicles (MVET). This concept has been discussed and developed over the past several legislative sessions and is a key component of the property tax reform proposals. The Twin Cities metropolitan area currently relies more heavily on property taxes for transit funding than any other region in the country. Reducing the property tax burden for transit operations has been a goal of several key legislators for many years, and one that the STA has historically supported. The STA has been actively involved in crafting the new language in a way that will provide for a smooth transition from property tax to MVET, as well as stability in growth of the transit system in years to come. We believe at this point in the negotiations that the following parameters for the MVET transfer have been established: • A minimum of 20.5% of MVET dedicated for transit operations in the metropolitan area; • An opt -out growth factor based on market value growth, not simply a proportion of MVET growth; • An appropriation to bridge the gap between the date that property tax revenue will run out and the date that MVET revenue will be available to transit service providers; • The debt levy for capital projects such as transit hubs, park -and -rides, buses, etc. will remain on the property tax; Issues that remain to be resolved include how to fund transit service in Greater Minnesota; whether or not the Met Council and opt -out cities will have the authority to levy property taxes if MVET revenues are insufficient in any given year; the appropriation level necessary to bridge the gap until MVET revenue becomes available; the status of Transit Area communities with respect to service availability and growth; and specifics of the mechanics of implementation. OMNIBUS TRANSPORTATION FINANCE BILL Like the Omnibus Tax Bill, the final outcome of the Omnibus Transportation Finance Bill is unknown at this time. The Transportation & Public Safety Finance Conference 2 Committee (now known as a Working Group) has spent considerable time and effort ironing out differences in the House and Senate proposals. Though nothing is certain until the bill is passed by both bodies and signed by the Governor, the following provisions have been agreed upon by the conferees: INCLUDED • Changes definition of "major transportation project" from set amount to percent of MnDOT district budget; • Changes makeup of TAB board to include members directly appointed by county and city organizations; • Imposes restrictions on busway locations in southwest suburbs and Minneapolis; • Requires a study of HOV lane use on both 1-35W and 1-394; • Requires that LRT and commuter rail routes, including origination and destination points, be identified before Met Council of MnDOT can study the project. NOTINCLUDED • Metro sales tax to fund transportation and transit projects; • Photocop; • Primary enforcement of seatbelt law. TO BE DECIDED • Delay of Highway 62/Crosstown construction project; • Constitutional amendment to dedicate MVET revenues to highways/transit; • Cancellation of Riverview Corridor busway appropriation. PUBLIC FINANCE BILL SIGNED BY GOVERNOR The Public Finance Bill (SF 2208) was one of the 218 bills passed by the Legislature during the regular session. Governor Ventura signed the bill into law on May 29 as 3 Chapter 214. Of interest to the Suburban Transit Association is the regional bonding authority provision included in this law. Regional bonding authority allows the Metropolitan Council to levy property taxes to pay for bonds issued for large capital projects such as construction of transit hubs and park -and -rides, as well as smaller capital purchases such as vehicle replacement. The Metropolitan Council administers this levy for the entire Transit Taxing District, and includes opt -out projects among those funded. Chapter 214 provides one-year regional bonding authority to the Metropolitan Council of up to $45 million. Some of the opt -out projects that may be funded by this bond revenue are listed in the table below. The Metropolitan Council is scheduled to approve the final list of 2001 projects at their June 25 meeting. The STA would like to publicly thank Rep. Ron Abrams and Sen. Larry Pogemiller for their leadership and vision in increasing the level of bonding authority for transit capital projects. $45 million will allow a large number of capital projects to proceed in a timely manner. SERVICE PROVIDER I PROJECT I FUNDING LEVEL FLEET REPLACEMENT Minnesota Valley Midlife bus overhauls $85,000 Plymouth Metrolink Fleet expansion $800,000 Southwest Metro Add 10 buses $244,134 Southwest Metro Midlife bus overhauls $692,250 SUPPORT FACILITIES/EQUIPMENT Minnesota Valley Burnsville bus garage $5,000,000 PASSENGER FACILITIES Maple Grove Transit Transit hub $1,724,156 Southwest Metro Southwest station deck $2,500,000 4 BIODIESEL UPDATE One of the high profile issues of the 2001 regular legislative session was the proposal to implement a minimum biodiesel content mandate. A number of variations on the biodiesel mandate were introduced and debated by the House and Senate Transportation, Tax and Agriculture Committees. Among these proposals were initiatives to require an incrementally phased -in statewide minimum biodiesel content mandate, a mandate that would apply only to state-owned and transit vehicles, and a bill to provide for educational and marketing materials promoting biodiesel use. The STA successfully lobbied to keep transit vehicles exempt from a number of biodiesel mandate proposals. In the end, no biodiesel provisions were passed by either the House or Senate. We fully expect that this issue will be brought forward once again in the 2002 legislative session. METRO TRANSIT APPOINTS NEW GENERAL MANAGER The Metropolitan Council has appointed John Haley to replace Art Leahy as General Manager of Metro Transit. Mr. Haley has been involved for the last 15 years in multiple aspects of transit operations across the country. He served as general manager of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, the deputy general manager of San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit and deputy manager of New Jersey Transit Rail Operations. He also served as the Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation. Mr. Haley recently worked as an independent consultant of multiple public sector clients, including Metro Transit. The STA would like to extend a warm welcome to Mr. Haley, and looks forward to working with him. 5