HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 04-17-2001 SpecialAdopted Minutes
Special Council Meeting
April 17, 2001
A Special Meeting of the Plymouth City Council was called to order by Deputy Mayor Slavik at
7:40 p.m. in the Police Training Room, 3400 Plymouth Boulevard, on April 17, 2001.
COUNCIL PRESENT: Councilmembers Hewitt, Harstad, Johnson, Black, Slavik, and Stein.
Mayor Tierney arrived at 7:50 p.m.
ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Johnson, Assistant City Manager Ahrens, Finance Director
Hahn, Community Development Director Hurlburt, Public Works Director Moore, Park and
Recreation Director Blank, and Deputy City Clerk Hoffman.
ALSO PRESENT: Planning Commissioner David Gaither and resident Tov Rezabek.
Hollvdale Golf Course
City Manager Johnson explained that there has been discussion about the future of Hollydale
Golf Course. He said the Comprehensive Plan has identified a need to retain at least one golf
course for public play in the city. He reviewed potential land costs in the event of city purchase,
and outlined the possible City resources for funding. He said resources exist in the Community
Improvement Fund, but the Council would need to review whether such a purchase would
qualify for funding from this source. He said any revenue bonds issued would require the City to
operate and maintain the facility. He said this would also require raising green fees to a level that
would not be competitive. He said general obligation bonds could be issued, but would require
approval by the public in a referendum, and approval of such a plan is doubtful.
Councihnembers discussed possible purchase by the City of the land. Community Development
Director Hurlburt stated that of the approximately 153 acres of land, 30 acres are classified as
wetlands. She said that in spite of this classification, the land would be expensive as wetlands are
often viewed as an amenity.
Park Director Blank reported that informal discussions with the Deziel family took place some
years ago, but nothing has transpired recently.
Councilmember Johnson said it is important for the City to have a strategy in place, even if no
immediate action is taken on the property in order to determine if the City can help them retain
their business.
Councilmember Black said the City should learn what factors would drive the Deziel family to
go out of business.
Adopted Council Minutes
Special Meeting of April 17, 2001
Page 2 of 2
Planning Commissioner David Gaither stated that he lives in the neighborhood near the Deziel
family. He has learned from casual conversations with Bill Deziel that the family would consider
some sort of partnership with the City. He said Mr. Deziel would like the property to remain a
golf course.
Responding to questions about possible PGA funding, Community Development Director
Hurlburt stated that money from that organization is usually aimed at programming
development, not land purchase or improvements.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, and seconded by Councilmember Harstad, for
staff to arranee a meetine with the Deziel Familv to learn about their interests and plans. The
Slavik, and Planning Commissioner David Gaither.
Councilmember Black stated that she would abstain from the vote, as she does not support
publicly—owned golf courses.
Councilmember Slavik asked if there were any private groups or organizations that would be
interested in the golf course. Park Director Blank responded that no one has expressed an interest
and that, given the market value of the land, it is doubtful that any offers would be made.
Manager Johnson said that the purchase of land for a golf course in this area would not be
practical.
With Harstad, Hewitt, Slavik, Stein, Johnson, and Tierney voting yes, and Black abstaining, the
motion carried.
Future Study Session Topic and Meetings
The Council scheduled a Study Session immediately after the reconvened Board of Review
meeting on May 1 to discuss the Elm Creek Interceptor.
Councilmember Harstad requested that a discussion of capping the number liquor licenses issued
by the City be placed on the list of pending study topics. Councilmember Johnson requested that
this session also include liquor sales at gas stations and convenience stores. The Council added
the item to the pending list.
Adjournment
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, and seconded by Councilmember Slavik, to
at 8:50 p.m. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
Kur'I o1fmar>, Deputy City Clerk