HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 03-29-2005Adopted Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 29, 2005
Mayor Johnson called a Regular Meeting of the Plymouth City Council to order at 7:00 p.m. in
the Council Chambers of City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Boulevard, on March 29, 2005.
COUNCIL PRESENT: Mayor Johnson, Councilmembers Willis, Hewitt, Slavik, Black, Bildsoe
arrived at 8:20 p.m.), and Stein.
ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Ahrens, Fire Chief Kline, Community Development Director
Hurlburt, Finance Manager Jacobson, Park and Recreation Director Blank, Civil Engineer
Renneberg, Housing Manager Barnes, City Engineer Quanbeck, Police Chief Goldstein, City
Attorney Knutson, and City Clerk Paulson.
Plymouth Forum
Steve Gardner, 10717 10th Avenue North, voiced his concerns regarding item No. 6.10.
However, realizing that the Council has a very long agenda and he needing to leave the meeting
before this item could be discussed, he stated that he would address the Council when the Final
Plat is presented to the Council at a future meeting.
Presentations and Public Information Announcements
4.01) Announcement of Hennepin County Smoking Ban
Police Chief Goldstein discussed Hennepin County's smoking ban that goes into effect March
31. He stated this ordinance would be enforceable by the Hennepin County Human Services
Departments and the Police Department would only be enforcing trespassing complaints (if a
customer who is smoking doesn't leave the establishment).
4.02) Donation from the Wayzata Hockey Association
Mayor Johnson stated this item would be postponed to the April 12 meeting.
Approval of Agenda
Motion was made by Councilmember Slavik, and seconded by Councilmember Hewitt, to
approve thea egnda. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 2 of 15
Consent Agenda
Councilmember Black requested to remove item No. 6.02, and it was placed under General
Business as item No. 8.7.
Motion was made byCouncilmember Black and seconded by Councilmember Stein, to approve
the amended Consent Agenda which included the following items:
6.01). Minutes of the Special and Regular Meetings of March 8.
6.02) Resolution Approving Purchase of All Surface Tracked Tractor/Skidsteer (Res2005-106).
6.03) Resolution Renewing Garbage Hauler Licenses (Res2005-1.07).
6.04) Resolution Approving Final Payment on Ice Center Contract (Res2005-108).
6.05) Approval of Human Rights Commission's 2005 Work Plan.
6.06) Resolution Relating to a Project on Behalf of Providence Academy and its Financing
under Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.152 to 469.1651; Calling for a Public Hearing Thereon
Res2005-109).
6.07) Resolution Approving a Contract with Laidlaw Transit Services, Inc. for Plymouth
Metrolink and Dial -a -Ride Services (Res2005-110).
6.08) Resolution Approving an Interim Use Permit for Untiedt's Garden Market to Operate a
Seasonal Market located at 1605 County Road 101 (2005004 - Res2005-111).
6.09) Resolution Approving Site Plan Amendment, Conditional Use Permit Amendment, and
Variances to allow a Church Expansion for St. Barnabas Lutheran Church located at 15600 Old
Rockford Road (2005005 — Re2005-112).
6.10) Ordinance Amending Chapter 21 of the City Code to Classify Certain Land located North
of 11th Avenue and West of South Shore Drive (2005007 — Ord2005-05), Resolution Approving
Findings of Fact for the Rezoning of Property located North of 11th Avenue and West of South
Shore Drive (2005007 — Res2005-113), Resolution Approving a Preliminary Plat for Henry
Lazniarz for "South Shore Park," an 18 -Unit Residential Condominium Development to be
located North of 11th Avenue and West of South Shore Drive (2005007 — Res2005-114), and a
Resolution Approving a Site Plan for Henry Lazniarz for "South Shore Park," an 18 -Unit
Residential Condominium Development to be located North of 11th Avenue and West of South
Shore Drive (2005007 — Res2005-115).
6.11) Resolution Revising Resolution No. 2004-413 Approving a Final Plat for "Vicksburg
Lane Reservoir" for Property located at 5025 Vicksburg Lane North (2004108 - Res2005-116).
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 3 of 15
6.12) Resolution Approving a Site Plan Amendment for Tiburon Homeowner's Association for
Property located at 3399 Pilgrim Lane North (2005012 - Res2005-117).
6.13) Resolution Approving a Conditional Use Permit for Martin Leeper to allow an Attached
Garage Containing over 1,000 square feet for Property located at 5525 Juneau Lane North
2005009 — Res2005-118).
6.14) Resolution Approving a Conditional Use Permit for Kenneth Schneeberg to allow over
1,000 square feet in Gross Floor Area of Attached Garage Space for Property located at 11925
44th Avenue North (2005011— Res2005-119).
6.15) Resolution Receiving Preliminary Engineer Report and Ordering Plans and Specifications
for Trunk Watermain Improvements for Vicksburg Lane to Dunkirk Lane (4144 — Res2005-
2m
6.16) Resolution Approving Parking Lot Expansion at Greenwood Park School (Res2005-121).
6.17) Resolution Receiving Preliminary Engineering Report and Calling for a Public Hearing
on City Center Street Lighting Project for Vicksburg Lane/36th Avenue (4143 — Res2005-122).
6.18) Resolution Approving 2005 Trail Improvement Project (Res2005-123).
6.19) Resolution Approving 2005 Park Capital Improvement Projects (Res2005-124).
6.20) (This item was removed from the Consent Agenda and placed under General Business as
item No. 8.7).
6.21) Resolution Approving Payment to Senior Community Services (Res2005-125).
6.22) Resolution Approving Agreement for use of a Designated Area of the Parking Lot at
Messiah United Methodist Church for a Park and Ride Site (Res2005-126).
6.23) Resolution Approving Hot Mix Asphalt Bids for 2005 (Res2005-127).
6.24) Resolution Approving Plans and Specifications and Ordering Advertisement for ids for
Neighborhood Flood Control Project (3126 — Res2005-128).
6.25.1) Resolution Approving Reduction in Retainage for 2004 Street Reconstruction Project
4101— Res2005-129).
6.25.2) Resolution Approving Reduction in Retainage for 2004 Street Reconstruction Project
4102 — Res2005-130).
6.26) Resolution Authorizing "No Parking" Restriction on the South Side of 37th Avenue
between Plymouth Boulevard and 30 feet to the East (Res2005-131).
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 4 of 15
6.27) Resolution Approving 2005 City of Plymouth Engineering Guidelines (Res2005-132).
6.28) Resolution Establishing Municipal State Aid Street for Medina Road and 54a'/56th
Avenue (Res2005-133) and a Resolution Revoking Medina Road from Dunkirk Lane to
Vicksburg Lane (Res2005-134).
6.29) Resolution Supporting Electronics Waste Recycling Legislation (Res2005-135).
6.30) Resolution Approving Contractual Pavement Marking Contract for the Years 2005 and
2006 (Res2005-136).
6.31) Resolution Awarding City Building Cleaning Project (Res2005-137).
6 32) Resolution Approving CAA . girder No. 2 on the Plymouth Public Safety Building
Expansion and Remodeling Project (Res2005-138).
Councilmember Black registered a no vote for item No. 6.27.
Motion carried to approve the amended Consent Agenda.
Public Hearings
7.1) Hearing on 2005 Street Reconstruction Project for Districts 68, 69, and 73 (51010)
Design Engineer Renneberg provided a presentation on the proposed 2005 Street Reconstruction
Project for Districts 68, 69, and 73. He stated two public informational meetings were held with
the affected neighborhoods to receive input from residents. He stated total project cost is
3,133,000, and of that amount, $1,469,436 would be assessed to property owners. He stated the
amounts of the assessments are based on the City's current assessment policy, whereby property
owners are assessed 30% of the street reconstruction cost and 100% of new concrete curb and
gutter and storm sewer. He noted that there are a few properties in the Ranchview West area that
already paid for curb and gutter with their 1995 street reconstruction project, so they wouldn't be
assessed for that again. In addition, the Gleanloch portion of District 68, would only be assessed
for the street reconstruction. He discussed options that residents have for paying their
assessments, which would also include special assessment deferrals if property owners would be
over the age of 62.
Councilmember Slavik asked if the cul-de-sac in the Upland area would be improved. Design
Engineer Renneberg replied there would only be minor patching, and the property owners
wouldn't be assessed.
Councilmember Slavik asked what is the age of the utility infrastructure underneath the roadway.
Design Engineer Renneberg replied approximately 25 years, but the life expectancy is
approximately 50 years.
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 5 of 15
Councilmember Hewitt asked if staff has reviewed the settlement situation at 3rd Avenue and
Ranchview. Design Engineer Renneberg acknowledged that there is settlement around the
waterpipe, and staff would review that as well as taking soil borings. He stated staff would
determine what is causing that settlement to occur and take whatever actions necessary to correct
the situation. -
Mayor Johnson opened the public hearing for testimony.
Tom Schroeder, 12420 Ravenwood Road, stated he doesn't support the street reconstruction
project. He stated that there are only five residents along this roadway; therefore, the
assessments are high. He stated that this road isn't used very often, and at the end of the road,
there is a sewer outlet that is in terrible condition as it wasn't properly constructed in the first
place.
Jim Watts, 315 Quantico Lane North, spoke against the proposed project and stated that
currently, this roadway doesn't carry a lot of traffic, but if it's improved, it would encourage
more traffic.
Charlie Michael, 825 Shenandoah Lane, stated he supports the reconstruction as it is needed. He
stated there are potholes and standing water in the street. He indicated that he also supports the
proposed curb and gutter as it would provide a channel for the water to drain.
Ralph Dorweiler, 15820 7th Avenue North, acknowledged that the street is in poor condition, but.
the proposed assessments are high. He suggested that the City inform residents earlier in the.
process so they can budget accordingly for the project.
Donald Elliott, 15130 8th Avenue North, stated he is concerned about constructing curb and
gutter. He stated there is a need to improve the roadway, but already there is a tremendous
amount of traffic that uses excessive speeds on this roadway. He questions how much of the
project is going to benefit the property owners with the current traffic situation. He stated he
doesn't feel the cost of the project should be the obligation of the abutting property owners.
Carey Elliott, 15130 8th Avenue North, stated that he realizes the road needs to be repaired.
However, with the rerouting of traffic, the increased traffic has had an effect on the road. He
questioned how the speed of the traffic could be lowered with a new improved roadway. He
stated if the construction of the curb and gutters is to improve the drainage to Parkers Lake, it
should be a community project.
Jack Gause, 840 Vicksburg Lane, presented a petition signed by 15 property owners who
question the necessity of the project. He stated they agree with Mr. Michael's concerns. He
stated that he prefers there wouldn't be curb and gutter, but rather the lawns would go to the
road.
Joe Cristoforo, 505 Upland Lane, stated he doesn't support this project because their road
received an over-layment last summer as well as the proposed assessment. He stated that he
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 6 of 15
doesn't mind paying his share of the project, but he has 66 feet of new curb and gutter that
doesn't need to be replaced as well as 39 feet that should be replaced.
John Brost, 520 Upland Lane, stated he is opposed to the project. He stated he purchased his
property in 1969 and the current sewer and water system was in place at that time. Therefore,
the age of that system is getting close to the estimated life expectancy of 50 years. He
questioned whether the proposed storm sewer would really benefit the neighborhood. In
addition, there isn't a need for the proposed cul-de-sac at 5th Avenue as there currently isn't a
problem in that area.
Steve Schaar, 735 Orchid Lane North, stated that he and his immediate neighbors support this
project, and they are willing to pay for the project. He stated that they also have issues with
traffic control, but hopefully that could be resolved with a patrol officer policing the area once in
a while.
Michael Andreasen, 15725 2nd Avenue North, stated he questions the proposed width of the
street near the Central Middle School. He stated recently the school was used for a dance recital,
and there were cars parked everywhere. He noted that if the width of the road would be reduced
by two feet, that would create a serious problem for pedestrians as well as property owners trying
to exit and enter their properties.
Todd Ullam, 325 Orchid Lane, agreed the roads are in poor condition, but they do assist in
slowing the traffic due to their condition. He stated if the road would be improved, the speed of
the traffic would also increase. He stated he is aware of the rain gardens that would be
established, but he is unsure what drainage they would control since his backyard is flooded
during the spring and heavy rainfalls.
Jan Jacobson, 645 Orchid Lane North, stated that she has two 80 -foot lots that were combined
into one lot. Therefore, would that property be assessed as one lot or two lots? She stated
someone had suggested to her that with her vacant lot, she should construct a "starter" driveway.
Pam Herrick, 12430 Ravenwood Road, stated that she doesn't support the street reconstruction
as there is no need to redo the entire street. She agreed that there are drainage problems, but she
understands that the system wasn't constructed correctly in the first place. Therefore, perhaps
property owners shouldn't be assessed to correct that problem.
Marcy and Fred Schramm, 12405 Raven Wood Road, stated that they support the project. Ms.
Schramm stated in the mid 1970s the storm sewer was constructed, and the catch basin has
slowly sunk. She showed pictures of the catch basin and stated that she daily maintains this area
to assist with the drainage. Mr. Schramm showed broken chunks of asphalt, which is on their
street. He also stated that if this project is postponed for another year, the costs would just
increase.
Ed Kirtscht, 430 Orchid Lane, stated that he supports the project as the road is in poor condition.
Edgar Thonander, 425 Quantico Lane North, stated he also supports the proposed project.
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 7 of 15
There being no one else present wishing to give testimony, Mayor Johnson declared the public
hearing closed.
At the Mayor's request, staff began to answer the questions that were received during the public
hearing.
City Engineer Quanbeck stated the current subgrades of these roads aren't adequate. Therefore,
the goal is to construct a subgrade, so that in 20 years, only the asphalt would need to be
replaced. In addition, the drainage areas would also be improved.
He stated regarding the suggestion that the City should inform residents of projects sooner, after
the Capital Improvement Program is prepared, staff notifies residents in the fall preceding the
proposed construction year. After a feasibility study is approved, a hearing is scheduled, and
estimates on the assessments are prepared on the feasibility study. Prior to the contract being
awarded, the assessment hearing is conducted. He stated occasionally, the assessment hearings
are held after the completion of the project, which allows additional time for property owners to
budget for the assessment.
He stated staff recommends the construction of curb and gutter because asphalt is a flexible
pavement, and it's built to flex with the traffic. Therefore, if there would be nothing on the
edges, such as curb and gutter, it would eventually spread out and weaken itself. The pavement
would tend to break up when one drives along the edge. In addition, with the construction of
curb and gutter, it allows for lower grades of asphalt.
Police Chief Goldstein stated regarding the high speeds of traffic in these areas, staff would
increase the level of enforcement. He stated the City would also place their speed trailer device
in the area to inform motorists of their speeds. He stated the City doesn't have the flexibility to
lower the speed limits lower than 30 mph.
City Engineer Quanbeck stated regarding the concern about curb and gutters improving the
drainage to Parkers Lake, the purpose of the curb and gutters is to transfer the storm water to the
catch basins for the immediate area so it doesn't pond in the streets and driveways. Therefore, it
isn't an improvement to water quality. He also noted the project isn't intended to improve
drainage in backyards of properties. He stated that staff would discuss with property owners the
construction of yard drains that would allow for sump pump connections.
He stated regarding Mr. Cristoforo, who has a good section of curb and gutter, he wasn't
assessed for that curb and gutter as the developer paid that cost. He explained everyone has to
pay a one-time curb and gutter assessment. Staff wouldn't be replacing the existing good section
of curb and gutter, but there would need to be some type of transition between the two.
He stated regarding the question concerning the age of the utility infrastructure below the streets,
City maintenance crews have reviewed the infrastructure, and they are confident that the piping
should last for an extended period of time. He stated soils have a tremendous impact on the
infrastructure, and the soils in this area are better.
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 8 of 15
He stated regarding the question on why the cul-de-sac would be constructed on 5a' Avenue, that
is required for any dead end street longer than 150 feet for emergency vehicle access turnaround.
He stated regarding the concern on the width of the road at Central Middle School, the City
standard is 28 feet, and if there would be a need for additional parking, staff would review that.
In addition, if there would be a problem after the street is reconstructed, it could be posted no
parking.
Councilmember Black asked if the amount of the assessments would change if the width would
be wider. City Engineer Quanbeck replied the assessments would increase.' He added at this
time, there are no firm plans for this area.
City Engineer Quanbeck stated regarding Ms. Jacobson's issue, if her lots are legally combined,
ICY would be assessed as one lot. However, if she would separate the, they would be assessed1,-
as two separate lots.
Finance Manager Jacobson spoke of the assessment deferral program for property owners who
are 62 years of age and older. He also commented that according to State Statutes, the City
could adopt by Ordinance a policy that would allow for partial payments on assessments.
Councilmember Slavik stated she would like further discussion on Mr. Cristoforo's situation on
being charged for curb and gutter even though a section of the existing curb and gutter would
remain.
City Attorney Knutson reminded the Council that no decisions would be made this evening
regarding assessments as that would be considered at the assessment hearing. He stated the
Council could adopt an Ordinance allowing for partial payments on assessments, and if the
Council desires to take that action, it should be enacted prior to the assessment hearing. He
stated the assessment hearing is tentatively scheduled for June.
Motion was made by Councilmember Slavik and seconded by Councilmember Black to direct
staff to draft an Ordinance to allow for partial payments on assessments as allowed by State
Statutes. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black and seconded by Councilmember Hewittto adopt a
Resolution Ordering Improvement and Preparation of Plans and Specifications for 2005 Street
Reconstruction Project (5 101 — Res2005-139).
Councilmember Hewitt voiced her concern on the age of utility infrastructure, which appears to
be at least 40 years old, that would need to be replaced in 10 years.
Councilmember Stein agreed with Councilmember Hewitt.
Councilmember Willis stated that Council should rely on the expertise of staff and consultants in
this area.
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 9 of 15
Mayor Johnson requested a friendly amendment to the motion that all curb and gutter issues with
property owners, such as in the case with Mr. Cristoforo, be reviewed again prior to the
assessment hearing. Councilmembers Black and Hewitt accepted this friendly amendment.
Councilmember Slavik voiced her support for the motion as the City has fallen behind in the
street reconstruction program. She stated that the Council has struggled with the percentage that
should be assessed while still trying to consider other options in raising funds. She stated if the
project is postponed it would cost more in the future, and there's always the possibility that the
percentage that is being assessed to property owners could increase as well.
Councilmember Hewitt stated that she would be supporting the motion even though she feels the
utility infrastructure under the roadways needs to be reviewed again.
Councilmember Black stated that she agrees with Councilmembers Hewitt and Slavik.
There being no further discussion and with all members voting in favor of the amended motion,
the motion carried.
General Business
Without objection, Mayor Johnson moved item No. 8.5 up on the agenda.
8.5) Payment to Plymouth Civic League for Music in Plymouth
City Manager Ahrens reported on the request of the Plymouth Civic League for the City to
contribute $25,000 to Music in Plymouth as well as a one-time contribution of $6,500 for the
laser show in recognition of the City's 50th anniversary. She stated the $25,000 is in the 2005
recreation fund budget. However, the additional $6,500 has not been budgeted for, but could be
funded from the general fiend contingency, the City's 10% gambling fund, or from the recreation
fund with staff direction to make cuts to offset this increase.
Kris St. Martin, Director Development for the Plymouth Civic League, stated the laser light
show was added to the program on a trial basis in 2004, and the audience response was
tremendous. He discussed their normal fundraising efforts with the business community and
individual contributors.
Motion was made by Councilmember Hewitt, and seconded by Councilmember Black, to adopt a
Resolution Approving 2005 Contribution to the Plymouth Civic League (,Res2005-141) and p_y
the $6,500 cost out of the City's 10% gambling fund.
Councilmember Hewitt stated that she would support the $6,500 request this year due to the
City's 50th anniversary, but she wouldn't want to see the additional cost every year.
Councilmember Slavik voiced her support of the expenditure, and she noted that $6,500
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 10 of 15
expenditure is coming from gambling (pull -tab) revenue, not taxpayers' dollars.
Councilmember Bildsoe stated that he prefers that there be sponsorships from the community for
the laser show.
Mayor Johnson agreed and stated that the Council hasn't discussed how the gambling funds were
to be used. She noted that there are other needs that could be supported by the gambling funds.
Councilmember Stein agreed and stated the Council should discuss the gambling fiend at a future
Study Session. However, he noted that this is a one-time event that would touch a large
percentage of the population of the City.
Councilmember Black agreed with Councilmember Stein.
M. St.1`Iartin Stated that they would continue to pursue a sponsor for the laser light show, and
they would notify the City if that would occur.
There being no further discussion and with all members voting in favor but Johnson, the motion
carried.
Councilmember Hewitt requested that item No. 8.3 be moved up on the agenda. This was
approved with no objection.
8.3) 2005 Membership Dues for the I-494 Corridor Commission
Councilmember Hewitt introduced Edina's Mayor, Jim Hovlund, who chairs the I-494 Corridor
Commission. Mr. Hovlund stated that the dues that are paid by the members of the commission
are matched 80% by Federal funds. He spoke of transportation legislation that they are lobbying
at the Legislature. He introduced Bill Schreiber who lobbies on behalf of the commission. Mr.
Hovlund stated their goal is to create mobility in this region. Councilmember Hewitt added that
they aren't just focusing on improvements to I-494 but also receiving additional funding. She
spoke of the possibility of there being no metro mobility bus service in this area in the future.
She stated expansions of I-494, even though they're not in the City of Plymouth, benefit
everybody.
Motion was made by Councilmember Willis, and seconded by Councilmember Hewitt to
authorize payment of the 2005 dues for membership in the I-494 Corridor Commission.
Councilmember Bildsoe stated the City has spent approximately $83,000 since it has been a
member, and it concerns him that there have been no improvements to I-494 within the City.
Currently, reconstruction of I-494 within the City has been moved from 2008 to approximately
2017. He stated perhaps the City would be better served by having Mr. Schreiber lobby on
behalf of the City.
Councilmember Slavik agreed with Councilmember Bildsoe.
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 11 of 15
Councilmember Willis acknowledged that it is frustrating, but there needs to be so much lead
time when lobbying at the Legislature. He noted the lobbying that began in the early 1990s with
the communities south of Plymouth. He stated it's a political process, and the commission and
City need to work with the legislative delegation.
Councilmember Stein stated that he wouldn't support removing the City from the commission, as
the Council hasn't even studied the alternative of doing that. He stated it's better to be part of a
global community lobbying for transit.
With all members voting in favor but Slavik and Bildsoe, the motion carried.
Councilmember Bildsoe requested that the commission began lobbying for median barriers along
i-494. Mr. Schreiber stated that they are really pursuing the third lane for I-494 which they feel
would be better than spending funds on short-term safety repairs. Police Chief Goldstein
disagreed and stated that he has been lobbying for the State to install the barriers rather than
waiting until approximately 2017 for the third lane.
8.1) Comprehensive Plan Amendment to Reguide Property located at 10 Zachary Lane
from LA -1 to LA -2 and Sketch Plan for 42 Dwelling Units (Master Civil and Construction
Engineering – 2004146)
Community Development Director Hurlburt reported on the request of Master Civil and
Construction Engineering for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment as well as a sketch plan review
for a proposed development consisting of 41 townhouses at Zachary Lane. The stated the
western 11.6 acres of the 23.43 -acre site would be reguided from LA -1 to LA -2 (the remainder
of the site would remain PI). She noted that this property has been a deposit site for debris over
the years. She stated there would be a cul-de-sac off of County Road 73 at the intersection of
Ridgemount. From the wetland buffer to the east, it would remain as open space, and it could be
dedicated to the City if the project is approved. She stated the existing home that is on the site
would remain, and it would be a different grade than the proposed townhomes. She stated staff
has heard conflicting comments from the neighborhood and the City of Minnetonka on the
condition of the wetland—whether it is full or if it is drying up due to the developments in the
area.
Councilmember Willis asked if the applicant has submitted a plan for anything other than the
proposed LA -2 development, and if they could submit an application to the County for single
access to Zachary Lane. Community Development Director Hurlburt replied this is the only plan
that has been submitted to the City for this site in approximately 12 years, and the County
wouldn't approve a single access to Zachary Lane.
Councilmember Willis stated the hardship that is created is due to the previous property owner.
Therefore, there is a high cost to develop the land. He stated the land itself has minimal value,
which is why there needs to be higher density to recover those costs. He noted that there are
single-family homes to the west, north and east of this the site.
Councilmember Stein stated that the applicant could have higher density levels than what is
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 12 of 15
being proposed. He stated he wouldn't support the Comprehensive Plan amendment until he
reviews a firm development proposal. He would prefer to see three units per acre to coincide
with the adjacent single-family neighborhoods.
Charlie Nester, with Master Civil and Construction Engineering, acknowledged that this has
been a construction site for 30 years. He stated the proposed density is the highest that could fit
on this site.
Mayor Johnson asked Mr. Nester if they could develop this site with townhomes that would have
three units per acre. Mr. Nester replied that would be extremely difficult due to the debris on the
site.
Motion was made by Councilmember Stein, and seconded by Councilmember Hewitt, to
postpone this item to April 12 in order that the applicant could present a proposal from their
builder. `With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
8.2) Issuance of General Obligation Housing Revenue Bonds and Affirm the City's
General Obligation Pledge for the Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority's
Senior Housing Project
Housing Manager Barnes reported on the recommendation of the City's HRA (Housing and
Redevelopment Authority) to construct a 96 -unit independent senior apartment building as part
of the CSM development at the intersection of Highway 55 and Vicksburg Lane. He stated
originally, the HRA had considered a 75 -unit facility, but the HRA would save an estimated
916,000 in equity contribution at the start of the project if they constructed the 96 -unit building.
Susan Henderson, 4000 Black Oaks Lane, Chair of the HRA, thanked the Council for their
support. She stated with a senior development, the traffic impact would be very low. She
provided some brief facts on the need for low incoming housing for senior citizens in the
community.
Steve Ludovissie, 12540 54th Ave. North, member of the HRA, urged the Council's support for
the 96 -unit building. He noted that this a unique opportunity to serve the future senior housing
needs in the community, and the larger facility would save a substantial amount of money.
Councilmember Slavik asked what the vacancy rate is of the senior living facility located behind
Lund's. Housing Manager Barnes replied that facility's programming is entirely different than
what is proposed at this location. He stated during the past few years, management has had some
issues, but due to new ownership, they are progressing in marketing their units. He stated that a
small portion of their units are independent, senior living, while the remainder is memory care
units and assisted units.
Councilmember Hewitt received clarification on when the delivery trucks would be using the
service road that would abut the senior apartment building. She stated her previous concern with
this housing development wasn't on the amount of traffic, but rather the mixture of the traffic.
She stated there have been issues; such as sight lines, with other senior facilities in the
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Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 13 of 15
community. She stated she is concerned that with the large trucks using the service road, that
that isn't a good combination. She asked what the availability of two bedroom units at Town
Square is. Housing Manager Barnes replied that for the most part, they are fully occupied.
Community Development Director Hurlburt added that the HRA requires a two person
household to occupy the two bedroom units. Therefore, when there is a death, that causes those
units to open up more frequently. However, there is no problem in marketing those units. She
added that with this proposed development, the units would be a market rate so it wouldn't be the
same situation as Town Square.
Councilmember Hewitt stated that she is unsure if this senior facility is appropriate for this site.
She stated once the City funds this project, it would be difficult to reverse the decision. She
stated she feels that senior housing is needed in the community, but she is unsure if this facility is
in the proper location, especially since it would be adjacent to Lowe's.
Kim Vohs, Housing Director with Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners, spoke in support
of the 96 -unit building. He stated they are very appreciative that 35% of the units would be
affordable for the people that they serve. He stated they support the mixed use concept proposed
for this project. This type of housing allows senior citizens to sell their single-family homes to
new families, and still being able to stay in the City.
Pat Murray, 504 Kingsview Lane, representing MICAH, stated MICAH supports this
development. He stated the few traffic trips from this use wouldn't have a large impact on
Vicksburg Lane. He stated it's a plus if the City can improve and concentrate the senior housing
developments where transportation would be available to them. He stated this is a good location
for senior housing, and there should be more housing in the City Center area. He stated that he
supports the 96 -unit building.
Councilmember Hewitt stated if the Council would increase the units to 96, transit would be an
issue as in the future the dial -a -ride service could be reduced or eliminated. She stated she
doesn't support increasing the units unless there are transit opportunities.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black and seconded by Mayor Johnson, to adopt a
Resolution Authorizing the Issuance of Governmental Housing Bonds to be issued by the
Housing and Redevelopment Authority in and for the City of Plymouth and affirming the Pledge.
of the General Obligation of the City of Plymouth to the Payment of Principal and Interest on the
Bonds and approving a Housing Program Related Thereto (Option 1— 96 -Unit Building
Res2005-140).
Jenny Flansburg, 5050 Holly Lane North, member of the HRA, stated hopefully these units
would be for those senior citizens who are currently residing in the community. She stated if the
dial -a -ride service would be eliminated, at least a good portion of the senior housing in the
community would be located in the same area. She stated this entire development, including
Lowe's, would assist in creating a strong center area for downtown Plymouth. She also noted
that funds that would be saved by constructing a 96 unit versus 75 unit.
Councilmember Black stated the 96 -unit building is a very good option financially, and she noted
Adopted Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 14 of 15
that the traffic issues don't increase substantially with the extra units. She agreed with Ms.
Flansburg that the" he senior housing facilities would be basically in this area, and it allows the City
to provide a hub for services that those residents would need.
Mayor Johnson stated this is a great opportunity for the City to construct this type of housing
development, and she's unsure when this type of opportunity would present itself again due to
the cost of land in the City. She also stated that senior citizens would be residing in the
community with or without cuts to transit and social services.
There being no further discussion on the motion and with all members voting in favor but
Hewitt, the motion carried.
8.4) Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment to change Allowable Uses in the C-1, C-2; and C-
4 Districts (City of Plymouth — 2004057)
Motion was made by Mayor Johnson and seconded by Councilmember Stein, to postpone this
item to April 12. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
8.6) 2005 City Council Goals and Issues for Study
Motion was made by Councilmember Hewittand seconded by Councilmember Stein, to adopt a
Resolution Affirming 2005 City Council Goals (Res2005-142).
Motion was made by Councilmember Hewittand seconded by Councilmember Black, to amend
the main motion to add "Transit Tran portation Comprehensive Study" under "Issues for Study
List." With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
The Council voted on the amended motion and with all members voting in favor, the motion
carried.
8.7) Resolution Approving Amendment 2 of the Highway 55 Corridor Coalition Joint
Powers Agreement
Community Development Director Hurlburt stated the coalition has found that some
amendments to the joint powers agreement are needed. She stated there are a lot of small
communities and townships up to Annandale that are a part of the organization. Those bodies
have a very difficult time in attending the meetings. In order to keep things moving, the
coalition has recommended that 25% of the membership need to be in attendance rather than
50% in order to take action.
Motion was made by Councilmember Hewitt and seconded by Councilmember Slavik, to adopt
a Resolution Approving Amendment No. 2 of the Hi way 55 Corridor Coalition Joint Powers
Agreement (Res2005-143) . With all members voting in favor but Black, the motion carried.
Reports and Staff Recommendations
Adopted Council Minutes
Regular Meeting of March 29, 2005
Page 15 of 15
9.1) Legislative Update
Mayor Johnson stated that she, as well as Councilmembers Hewitt and Black, would be attending
Capital Day" at the Capital on March 31. Councilmember Bildsoe stated there is possible
legislation regarding allowing cities to reduce speed limits on residential streets, and perhaps this
should be discussed with the City's delegation on that day.
Councilmember Black stated the zero depth pool legislation is progressing through the House
and Senate. She also briefly commented on the exotic species bill that would raise funding for
the control of exotic species.
Adiournment
Mayor Johnson declared the meeting adjourned approximately 1:00 p.m
andra R. Paulson, City Clerk