HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 02-21-1986CITY O�
PLYMOUTH
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
February 21, 1986
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS.....
1. COUNCIL/STAFF DINNER MEETING -- Monday, February 24. The Council
will meet with City staff members at 6:00 p.m, in the City Council
conference room.
2. SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING -- Monday, February 24, 7:30 p.m. Special
City Council meeting in City Council Chambers.
3. PLANNING COMMISSION -- Wednesday, February 26, 7:30 p.m. The
Planning Commission will meet in the City Council Chambers. Aqenda
attached. (M-3)
4. JOINT MEETING WITH PARK AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION -- Due to
conflicts in s(-hPdulinn_ it has hpPn remiested by PRAC that the
Joint meeting originally scheduled for Monday evening, March 31, be
rescheduled to Wednesday, April 2. It is proposed that the joint
meeting on Wednesday, April 2 commence at 6:00 p.m. with dinner.
Following the joint Council/PRAC meeting, Fred Moore will make a
presentation for Council on the status of the studies dealing with
water supply and treatment. It is anticipated that the meeting
should conclude between 9:30 and 10:00 p.m.
5. MEETING REMINDERS:
b. Metro Council - State of the Region Meeting -- Wednesday,
February 26, 2:00 p.m. The Metropolitan Council State of the
Region meeting will be held at the Amfac Hotel, Minneapolis.
c. PRAC Seminar -- Thursday, March 13, 6:00 p.m. The Park and
Recreation Commission meet with Paul Fjare, Brauer and
Associates in the City Council Chambers.
6. MARCH & APRIL CALENDARS -- The March and April meeting calendars are
attached. M-6
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD. PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
CITY COUNCIL
February 21,
Page Two
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
1986
FOR YOUR INFORMATION.....
1. MLC UPDATE -- Attached is your copy of the MLC's Update newsletter
for February. Update is mailed to all members of the MLC legis-
lative delegation,. members of the legislative leadership, and
persons covering the State Capitol from the news media. It is
provided to the Council for information purposes and should give you
some idea as to the information which is being communicated to our
legislators by the MLC.
2. REIMBURSEMENT FOR ROADWAY MAINTENANCE COSTS OF HOMEOWNERS
ASSOCIATIONS -- Senator Ramstad has introduced SF 1780 which would
authorize cities (Plymouth) to reimburse homeowner associations for
expenses they incur in maintaining association roadways, providing
that such private roadways are at least one-quarter mile in length.
The bill would limit reimbursement to the amount the City would
spend to maintain a "comparable" road, and the percentage of time
the road is open for public use. Councilmembers may recall that
several times in the last number of years, representatives of the
Chelsea Woods Homeowners Association have requested the City to
maintain their private streets. On each occasion the Council has
reminded the homeowners that their private streets were built to
lesser than normal street standards, not only in terms of strength,
but also in terms of right-of-way and setback of structures. One of
the key components of a PUD is design flexibility. The developers
of both Chelsea Woods and the Shenandoah developments conceived and
executed their developments with private streets. The initial
savings for the less costly roads were, of course, enjoyed by the
first-time homeowners, but have likely been largely lost as a result
of resales. The bill that Senator Ramstad has introduced would have
the effect of putting a good deal of additional pressure on the City
Council to reimburse the residents of these PUD's for some portion
of the costs which they apparently spend on their own private roads.
3. LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST MEETING -- Last Saturday morning, Mayor
Schneider and Councilmembers Crain and Zitur met with other local
government officials and our legislative delegation in Brooklyn
Park. Understandably, most of the discussion centered around the
State's fiscal crisis and how the legislature might cope with that
problem. The attached article appeared in this week's P1 mouth Post
summarizing the positions of the legislative leaders. I-3
4. OCTOBER 13 TOWN MEETING -- When the schedule of Town Meetings was
assembled the Area 2 Town Meeting was erroneously scheduled for
Monday, October 13, 1986. Since October 13 is Yom Kippur, the
Council may wish to revise this Town Meeting to Tuesday, October
14. Following receipt of Council direction, we will revise the
calendar accordingly.
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
February 21, 1986
Page Three
5. FEDERAL POLLING PLACE ACCESSIBILITY LAW -- The Secretary of State
has advised us of the passage of the Federal Voting Accessibility
for the Elderly and Handicapped Act. The law requires that all
polling places for the 1986 primary and general elections must be
surveyed to determine whether they are accessible. To accomplish
this objective, the law provides that before duly 1, 1986 each
municipality must complete a summary report and a survey report for
each polling place. The Council is required to submit the report
since they are the body which approves the polling places. Copies
of the summary report and survey of each precinct are attached. The
precinct survey is onerous in that it asks 27 separate questions
about each voting location. To answer the questions requires the
personal inspection of the facilities and, in many cases, the
measurement of door frames, ramps, etc. Previous to the adoption of
the federal law, the Minnesota Election laws required accessibility
In municipal voting precincts. Our polling places comply with
Minnesota accessibility requirements.
While the objective of the federal law is laudable, it represents a
substantial additional work burden to the city clerk besides smack-
ing of big brotherism/listerism. This is the same federal
government which is substantially reducing aids to local governments
with one hand, while with the other, shifting heretofore federal
responsibilities to the states and municipalities.
At least two courses of action are available. The first is to
dutifully complete these new requirements as directed. The second
course of action is to respond to the Secretary of State (who is
delegated enforcement responsibility by the federal nnvernment) in
writing that the City Council is mindful and in compliance with the
accessibility requirements of the state law, but that due to
personnel and financial shortfalls we are unable to complete the
sixteen surveys required.
The federal law provides that the U.S. Attorney General or any
Individual who "is personally aggrieved by the non-compliance" with
the accessibility requirements, to bring an action for declaratory
or injunctive relief. Action may be brought because of non-
compliance by the state or non-compliance by a political sub-
division. As a practical matter, I believe that we would comply
with the law before litigation is initiated. But our message would
be clear to both the federal and state governments. Council
direction is requested on this matter. (I-5)
6. CABLE CHANNEL 7 POLICY -- Council discussion of the Cable Channel 7
policy is scheduled for the March 3 Council meeting. While a draft
policy has been prepared, the topic is sufficiently complex that
additional staff review is necessary prior to Council consideration
of the issue.
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
February 21, 1986
Page Four
7. NORTHWEST COMMUNITY TELEVISION NEWSLETTER -- Attached is a copy of
the Northwest Images produced by the Northwest Community Television
Corporation. This newsletter may give the Councilmembers a better
overall picture of the efforts undertaken by the Community
Television Corporation (CTC) in providing locally produced
television. Of particular interest in this issue is the article
dealing with the construction of a new CTC study and office in
Brookyn Park.
8. MINUTES -- The following minutes are attached for your information:
a. Planning Commission, February 12, 1986 (I-8)
9. PLYMOUTH METROLINK -- The attached article entitled, "Examining the
Options for Transit in Communities" appeared in the February issue
of Public Management, an International City Management Association
publication. The article presents four community transit redesign
approaches - one of which is the Plymouth Metrolink. It represents
national attention for this project and for Plymouth, thanks to
Metrolink and Frank Boyles' participation in the ICMA's Redesigning
Local Transportation Services Project. (I-9)
10. CORRESPONDENCE:
a. Letter to Mr. Ron Engel, 200 No. Holly Lane, from Mayor
Schneider, concerning the time table for installation of cable
service in the Kingswood Addition. (I -10a)
b. Letter of condolence from Mayor Schneider to Mrs. Mark Eckes.
(I -10b)
c. Letter of congratulations to Paul S. Wilson, III, 10920 - 38th
Avenue North, from Mayor Schneider on achieving the rank of
Eagle Scout. Mr. Wilson has been invited to attend a future
Council meeting so the Council may honor his achievement.
(I -10c)
d. Letter to Ms. Lan! Beam from Mayor Schneider responding to her
February 9 letter on receiving a tag for parking in a
handicapped parking space at the Wayzata Junior High. (I -10d)
e. Letter to Eric Blank from Harry Dean, Jr., Chairman, Community
Service for the Minnetonka -Plymouth Rotary Club, advising of the
Club's contribution of $3,000 to be used for the fitness course
at the Zachary Playfield. (I -10e)
James G. Willis
City Manager
PLANNING COMI1ISSION MEETIHIG AGEHD-A
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1986
WHERE: Plymouth City Center
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, Mil 55447
CONSENT AGENDA
All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine by the Planninq
Commission and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of
these items unless a Commissioner, citizen or petitioner so requests, in which event
the item will be removed from the consent agenda and considered in normal sequence on
the agenda.
1. CALL TO ORDER 7:30 P.M.
2. ROLL CALL
3.* APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Planning Commission Minutes, February 12, 1986
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan
B. Hance Distributing Company, Inc. Site Plan for construction of an
office/warehouse facility, Conditional Use Permit to allow retail sales in the
Industrial District, and Variances for property south of 16th Avenue North and
west of Highway 55. (85135)
C. Dave Peterson, Harrison Hills, Inc. Residential Planned Unit Development
Amendment to the Harrison Hills RPUD Plan to allow a maximum lot coverage of
30% for 15 additional single family detached dwellings. (86009)
D. Glory of Christ Lutheran Church. Zoning Ordinance Textual Amendment to allow
churches as a conditional use in the FRD (Future Restricted Development)
District. (86011)
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. Rick Radecki. Lot Consolidation, Lot Division and Variance at 2735 Kilmer
Lane to consolidate two parcels, redivide to create three parcels and
variances related to the minimum lot width and area requirements for the R -1A
District. (86007)
6. OLD BUSINESS
None
7. OTHER BUSINESS
None
8. ADJOURNMENT
10:00 P.M.
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Legislators pass the word: s-3
Budget crunch is here., again
By CATHY WILARY
Governor Perpich's proposal for
$734 million in cuts to balance the
state budget and its impact on local
governments were the chief con-
cerns of area city officials who at-
tended a legislative breakfast
meeting last Saturday at the
Brooklyn Park Community Center.
State Senator Jim Ramstad
(I1145) said the Governor is pro-
posing a 3.5 percent cut to cities for
the biennium. Since this fiscal year
has already been budgeted for, said
Ramstad, the full cut will come in
fiscal year 1987 when cities will
have to cut their budgets by seven
percent.
In fact, Ramstad said cities may
be looking at an even larger reduc-
tion since the Governor is recom-
mending cuts in local government
aids by 8.1 percent and reductions
in homestead credit of 8.78 percent.
This translates into an $85 million
loss to local governments, he said,
adding that this could mean huge
cuts in services and substantial
layoffs of city employees.
RAMSTAD PROVIDED DATA
showing the projected impact of
the governor's recommendations
for individual cities.
If homestead credit is reduced by
8.78 percent and local government
aids y 8.1 percent, Brooklyn Park
would lose $777,868; Brooklyn Cen-
ter, $228,123; Crystal, $1861921;
Golden Valley, $180,454; Robbins -
dale, $151,563; New Hope, $134,234;
Maple Grove, $132,134; and Ply-
mouth, $113,037.
All of the legislators said they
preferred making reductions at the
state level rather than at the local
level. "It's difficult to justify
massive shifts to local property
taxes," said Ramstad.
,STATE SENATOR BILL
LUTHER (DFL -47) said he has
been attending meetings daily on
the budget cuts. "The position of
the Senate is we want to make as
little impact on education and
property taxes as possible."
Ne said he endorses the Govern-
u�
� AM
_4111—
or's proposed cuts in welfare where
payments given to medical pro-
viders would be slashed by $30 mil-
lion. He said the Senate also *riV. go
along with the governor's recom-
mendation for an $80 million delay
in motor vehicle excise transfers
to cover part of the deficit, instead
of using the money for highway
improvements.
If both houses agree to these and
other state cutbacks, he said, there
should be only about $100 million in
cuts that both houses will have to
hammer out in conference com-
mittees.
On the House side, Repre-
sentative Bill Schreiber (IR -48B),
said he and his colleagues also
have been meeting daily to discuss
the proposed budget cuts.
"OUR GOAL IS TO CUT just as
much as we can from state agen-
cies and departments," he said.
"Whatever we can't cut, it will
have to come out of local for-
mulas."
Mary Anderson, Golden Valley
mayor, told legislators to
remember that cities serve people.
"We are more pressured to fill in
when other groups back off," she
said. She urged legislators to keep
the present aid formula and make
reductions based on this formula, if
they are necessary.
Legislators did provide city of-
ficials with some information on
other issues, although they admit-
ted that this session of the Legisla-
ture has had little time for anything
besides the budget cuts.
Regarding highway dollars,
Luther said the Legislature will
probably repeal a four -cents -a -
gallon tax break for gasahol this
session. In addition, it is estimated
that the state could lose $10 million
in federal money for highways this
year because ..of the Gramm-
Rudman law for balancing the fed-
eralbudget. .
SCHREIBER SAID legislators
are looking into the possibility of
taking a certain percentage out of
the fiscal disparities pool and
-creating a highway improvement
fund administered by the Metro-
politan Council. s ,
In other matters, Schreiber said
he is confident an W million
shopping mall will not be built in
Bloomington because the Legisla-
ture is not willing to make substan-
tial concessions to the developer.
"My sense is that the mega -mall,
as originally proposed, is a dead
issue." He added that a scaled-
down version still is possibility.
Schreiber said the Legislature
may try to set limits for tax in-
crement financing (TIF) districts
in Minnesota communities.
Noting `instances where TIF
money has been used for highways,
public parks, government buildings
and lift stations, Schreiber said.
"This money has been used for
publicimprovement projects that
would have been special -assessed
in the past. Setting limits is not
going to be easy, but we will be
looking at it. I am hopeful some
changes can be made."
JIM RAMSTAD
BILL SCHREIBER
Attachment A
MUNICIPALITY ACCESSIBLITY SUMMARY FOR THE 1986 FEDERAL PRIMARY AND GENERAL ELECTIONS
Municipality County
(Name) (Name)
Type of municipality, indicate �y totally blackening appropriate box with #2ep ncil.
1st, 2nd or 3rd class city C]
4th class city C7
Township C]
Name and address of chair of governing body:
Phone:-
If
hone:
If the governing body has appointed a Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee
include name and address of chair of committee.
Phone:
1. Total number of precincts in municipality.
2. Tr%+al ntimhcr of nrarinrts surveyed using the
accessibility survey form and found to comply
with all requirements.
3. Number of precincts where a Voting Accessibility
Advisory Committee surveyed and determined that
no available polling place is accessible or can
be made accessible.
4. If a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd class city, does the
municipality have at least one telecommunciations
device for the deaf for voter registration
information C) yes [) no C) N/A
I certify that the information above and attached is true and correct for the
1986 federal primary and general election.
Date) (Chair, Municipal Governing Body )
Complete and attach one polling place survey report for each polling place in
municipality. Original copy of summary and surveys must be received by Election
Division, Office of the Secretary of State, 180 State Office Bldg., St. Paul, MN
55155-1299; no later than July 1, 1986. File a copy of the summary with the
county auditor no later than July 1, 1986.
Page 1
Attachment B
COUNTY ACCESSIBILITY SUMMARY FOR THE 1986 STATE PRIMARY AND GENERAL ELECTIONS
County Number
N ame
For each question completely blacken the appropriate box to indicate ,yes, no, or
not applicable. Please use #2ep ncil.
1. Is at least one public building where voter
registration cards, instructions, and assistance
are available, designated for every 30,000
residents? C] yes [J no
2. Are voter registration and absentee ballot
instructions available in large type, and upon
request made available in Braille or on
cassette tape?
3. Do all voter registration cards printed after
July 1, 1985 include a statement about the
availability of registration and voting assistance
for elderly and handicapped individuals?
4. Is a reasonable number of voter registration cards
supplied to any group wanting to conduct a
registration drive?
5. Will the following materials in large type be
supplied to each precinct (either directly to the
judges or through the municipal clerk)?
A. Election day registration poster:
B. Assistance to handicapped voters poster:
C] yes [] no
C] yes CJ no
CJ yes C] no
C] yes
[] yes
C. Paper ballot instruction poster: [] yes
D. Temporary handicapped parking signs as needed [J yes
6. Does the county seat have at least one
telecommunications device for the deaf for voter
registration information? [] yes
Explain the reason for any "no" answers to questions 1 - 6.
Page 1 of 2
[ ) no
[] no
[) no [) N/A
[) no
C] no
UNORGANIZED TERRITORY
The section below is to be completed if the county has any polling places in
unorganized territory.
7. Total number of unorganized territory precincts
8. Total number of unorganized territory precincts
surveyed with the accessibility survey form and
found to comply with all requirements.
9. Total number of unorganized territory precincts
where a Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee
surveyed and determined that no available place
is accessible or can be made accessible.
Complete and attach one polling place survey report for each polling place in
unorganized territory.
I certify that the information above and attached is true and correct for the
1986 federal primary and general elections.
(Date)
County Auditor
ORIGINAL COPY OF SUMMARY AND UNORGANIZED TERRITORY SURVEYS TO BE RECEIVED BY:
Election Division
Office of the Secretary of State
180 State Office Building
St. Paul, Minnesota 55155-1299
no later than July 1, 1986
Page 2 of 2
Attachment C
POLLING PLACE ACCESSIBILITY SURVEY FORM FOR 1986 FEDERAL ELECTIONS
(to be received by Secretary of State no later than July 1, 1986)
Name of Municipality
Name of County
Precinct Name and Number
Polling Place Address
For each question, completelX blacken the appropriate box to indicate ,des, no or
not applicable. Please use #2 QenC 1.
I. Parkinq and Access
1). Does any curb adjacent to the main entrance
have curb cuts or temporary ramps? C] yes C] no [J N/A
2). If the main entrance is not the accessible
entrance, does any curb adjacent to the
accessible entrance have curb cuts or
temporary ramps? C] yes [] no [J N/A
3). Is at least one 12 foot wide parking space near
the accessible entrance permanently designated
for handicapped parking or will one be
temporarily designated on election days? C] yes CJ no
4). Is the accessible entrance identified for use
by the handicapped? C] yes CJ no
5). If the main entrance is not the accessible
entrance, is a sign posted with directions to
the accessible entrance? [] yes CJ no C] N/A
Explain the reason for any "no" answers to questions 1 - 5.
Page 1 of 3
II. Entrance (answer the following questions as they apply to the accessible
entrance and the path from that entrance into the voting area).
6). Do all doors or doorways in open position have
a clear open width of not less than 31 inches?
7). Are all doors operable by a single effort with
one hand?
8). Where access is through two or more sets of
doors, as in a foyer, vestibule, or lobby,
is the space separating the doorways not less
than seven feet?
9). Are all floors or landings at doorways level
with or not more than one-half inch lower
than the threshold?
C] yes [] no
[J yes C] no
[] yes [] no [] N/A
C] yes CJ no
10). If the accessible entrance is not at the floor
or level where voting takes place, is the
voting level accessible by ramp or elevator? C] yes C] no C] N/A
11). If stairs must be used to enter or leave the
polling place, do they have a temporary
handrail and ramp? C] yes C] no C] N/A
12).
Do
all ramps meet all the following specifications?
a)
Slope not to exceed 1 ft. vertical to 12
C]
yes
[]
no
[)
N/A
b)
ft. horizontal;
landing at top and bottom;
[]
yes
C]
no
[J
N/A
c)
where rise exceeds 3 ft. vertically, an
d)
e)
f)
g)
intermediate landing is located at not
more than 2 1 ft. vertically;
bottom landing of at least 6 ft. measured
in direction of ramp;
top and any immediate landings of at least
5 ft. measured in direction of ramps;
slip -resistant surface; and
have handrails and guardrails.
[]
[]
C]
C]
C]
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
C]
[]
C]
C]
C]
no
no
no
no
no
[]
[]
[]
[]
[]
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
13).
Is
the
there a clear path from the entrance into
voting area?
H
yes
[]
no
Explain
the
reasons for any "no" answers to questions 6 -
13.
Page 2 of 3
S
III. Equipment (Answer questions 14 - 21 based on the equipment and materials
that the jurisdiction will have in place at the 1986 elections).
14). Are all barriers eliminated that would impede
the path of a physically handicapped voter to
the voting booth? CJ yes C] no
15). Is there at least one accessible voting booth
or other accessible voting station? [] yes C] no
16). Is a chair available for voters to use while
in the voting booth? C] yes C] no
17). Are election judges trained in procedures
for assistance to handicapped voters? C] yes C] no
18). Is the large type election day registration
poster from Secretary of State posted? C] yes CJ no
19). If lever voting machines or electronic card
voting system (punch card or optical scan)
used are instructions prepared in large type
and posted? C7 yes CJ no C7 N/A
20). If lever voting machines are used, are paper
ballots and absentee ballot envelopes
available? C] yes C] no [] N/A
21). If paper ballots are used, is the large type
instruction poster from the Secretary of
State posted? C] yes [] no [] N/A
Explain the reasons for any "no" answers to questions 14 - 21.
I certify that the above and attached information is true and correct.
(Date) Person Surveying Polling Place
The original copy of this survey must be received by the Election Division no
later than July 1, 1986. If changes are made after that date, they must be
reported on a post-election report to be filed no later than November 15, 1986.
Page 3 of 3
Attachment D
REQUEST FGR EXEMPTION
Name of Municipality
County Name
Precinct Name and Number
Polling Place Address
Name and address
of chair of
governing body:
Phone:
Name and address
of chair of
Voting Accessibility
Advisory Committee
Phone:
In support of the request for exemption, attach the following information to
this form.
I. Explanation of how the Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee determined
that every potential polling place had been surveyed and no accessible place
is available. The area surveyed must include both the precinct and the area
outside the precinct where the polling place can legally be located (See
M.S. §2048.16).
II. Explanation of why no available place can be made temporarily or permanently
accessible.
III. Explanation, in detail, of the extent to which the polling place has been
made to meet the accessibility requirements, and how it falls short.
IV. Explanation of the composition of the Voting Accessiblity Advisory Committee
and how many represent elderly and disabled voters.
We certify that the information above and attached is true and correct and
request the Secretary of State to find this polling place is exempt in accordance
with Sec. 3 (b) of Public Law 98-435.
We certify that to our knowledge and belief no available polling place is
accessible or can be made accessible.
(Date) (Chair, Governing Body)
(Date) (Chair, Votingtteejsibility Advisory
Comm
Page 1
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
FEBRUARY 12, 1986
The regular Meeting of the Plymouth Planning Commission was
called to order at 7:30 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Steigerwald, Commissioners
Stulberg, Magnus, Plufka, Mellen, and
Pauba
MEMBERS ABSENT: Commissioner Wire
STAFF PRESENT: Community Development Coordinator
Sara McConn
Assistant City Engineer John Sweeney
Community Development Secretary
Grace Wineman
*CONSENT AGENDA AND
MINUTES
MOTION by Commissioner Magnus, seconded by Commissioner *CONSENT AGENDA
Plufka to recommend approval of the Consent Agenda.
VOTE. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried.
VOTE - MOTION CARRIED
MOTION by Commissioner Magnus, seconded by Commissioner
Plufka to recommend approval of the Minutes for January 22, *MINUTES - JANUARY
1986 as submitted. 22, 1986
VOTE. 5 Ayes. Commissioner Stulberg abstained. MOTION
carried. VOTE - MOTION CARRIED
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Chairman Steigerwald introduced the application by Donald
Wildman, Scoville Business Center and requested an overview DONALD WILDMAN
of the January 28, 1986 Planning Staff Report by Coordinator SCOVILLE BUSINESS
McConn. CENTER PRELIMINARY
PLAT (86005)
Chairman Steigerwald introduced Mr. Gary Vogel, Architect,
who stated he had no questions except on Item No. 4 of the
Engineer's Memorandum having to do with utility assess-
ments. Mr. Vogel stated their letter directed to the
Engineering Department states the two options they plan to
pursue. Chairman Steigerwald explained that the City
Council will deal with the assessment question.
Chairman Steigerwald opened the Public Hearing, as there was
no one present to speak on this item, the Public Hearing was
closed.
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Planning Commission Minutes
February 12, 1986
MOTION by Commissioner Pauba, seconded by Commissioner MOTION TO APPROVE
Mellen to recommend approval for the Preliminary Plat for
Donald Wildman, Scoville Business Center, subject to the
conditions as stated in the January 28, 1986 Planning Staff
Report.
Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried.
Chairman Steigerwald introduced the Site Plan, Conditional
Use Permit Amendment and Variance for David Bell Investment
Company and requested an overview of the January 28, 1986
Planning Staff Report by Coordinator McConn.
Coordinator McConn confirmed for Commissioner Stulberg that
14 of the parking spaces provided will be on the adjoining
property with appropriate covenants; and 15 will be provided
on the subject property.
Chairman Steigerwald introduced Larry Hansen, Schoell &
Madsen, who explained that the railroad car once contained
on this side has been moved off the property. Chairman
Steigerwald inquired if the building that is being moved to
the site will be an inground building and have the same
setting on this new site. Mr. Hansen answered
affirmatively. Commissioner Stulberg inquired about the
building type. Mr. Hansen stated the building has an office
use; will be a brick veneer building similar in appearance
to the existing racquet ball club building. Mr. Hansen
confirmed for Commissioner Stulberg that the building is two
stories. He also confirmed for Commissioner Pauba that the
recreational facilities will be for employees in the office
complex only.
Mr. Hansen stated his main concern is in expediting the
review process for this application because of special costs
associated with moving the building into Plymouth from
Minnetonka.
Chairman Steigerwald opened the Public Hearing, as there was
no one present to speak on this item, the Public Hearing was
closed.
VOTE - MOTION CARRIED
DAVID BELL INVESTMENT
COMPANY/SITE PLAN
CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT AMENDMENT
AND VARIANCE (85142)
MOTION by Commissioner Plufka, seconded by Commissioner MOTION TO APPROVE
Mellen to recommend approval for the Site Plan, Conditional
Use Permit Amendment, and Variance for David Bell Investment
Company, subject to the conditions as stated in the January
28, 1986 Planning Staff Report.
Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried. VOTE - MOTION CARRIED
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Planning Commission Minutes
February 12, 1986
Chairman Steigerwald introduced the Rezoning, Preliminary
Plat, and Conditional Use Permit application by Craig
Scherber and requested an overview of the February 3, 1986
Planning Staff Report by Coordinator McConn.
Chairman Steigerwald introduced Mr. Bob Smith, Hedlund
Engineering, who explained the lot layout and transition to
other land uses that adjoin or abut this property. He
explained that Mr. Scherber is a builder of single family
dwellings, and prefers to build single family units. Thus,
the Conditional Use Permit is requested to allow the con-
struction of single family residences in this LA -3 (high
medium density) guided area. Mr. Smith stated it is the
developer's opinion that development of single family
residences is the best use for this property.
Chairman Steigerwald inquired about the adjoining property
owners to the east and whether they had been contacted about
integrated development. Mr Smith stated they had been con-
tacted but were not interested in development of their land
at this time. He further explained that one property owner
is interested in the development of townhouses and the other
property owner chooses not to develop his land. Coordinator
McConn confirmed that one of the property owners, Mr.
Braegelmann, had met with staff, but the reason for Mr.
Braegelmann not joining with the development is not known.
Mr. Smith stated they are sensitive that other land not be-
ing developed at this time not be landlocked by this devel-
opment and, that these adjoining areas could request
development of their land at at any time.
Commissioner Magnus inquired about Block 4 of the plat where
single family dwellings could be greatly impacted by
potential adjacent areas of higher density. Mr. Smith
stated there will be open area and/or parkland adjacent to
the norhern part of the site. Commissioner Magnus inquired
why no multiple family units are planned for this property.
Mr. Smith reiterated that the developer favors building
single family residential units.
Commissioner Mellen inquired how far south the sewer line is
located. Mr. Smith stated the line to serve this property
is at County Road 9. The line in Fernbrook Lane is at too
high an elevation which forces them to bring it from County
Road 9 into their development. Mr. Smith confirmed they are
working on acquiring the easements. He showed the easement
locations, discussed their contact with property owners, and
stated they foresee no problems in acquiring the easements.
Chairman Steigerwald opened the Public Hearing.
CRAIG SCHERBER
REZONING, PRELIMINVY
PLAT AND CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT FOR
FERNBROOK HEIGHTS
(85097)
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Planning Commission Minutes
February 12, 1986
Kevin Begin, 4300 Fernbrook Lane, stated he owns adjoining
land where he is planning to build single family homes. He
stated his preference for single family homes to be
constructed on the subject property as he does not want
attached housing next to him.
Chairman Steigerwald inquired about his thoughts regarding
multi -family dwellings being constructed on the property
owned by Mr. Braegelmann. Mr. Begin stated he prefers to
see single family dwellings constructed in this area.
Bob Sevey, stated he owns 11 acres to the north of Mr.
Begin's property, between Fernbrook Lane and the I-494
corridor. He stated his concern regarding single family
dwellings being constructed along the freeway system such as
those you see in more mature communities. He stated he
doesn't believe people want to live in single family homes
along freeways. These homes could languish in the market
and without proper maintenance, would look rundown and
dilapidated. He stated he can see this happening along
County Road 9 as well. The City should consider long-term
planning when allowing development in these areas. Chairman
Steigerwald asked for clarification about his reactions to
the proposal. Mr. Sevey stated he does not think it is
appropriate for single family dwellings to be constructed
along the interstate and that single family homes are not a
good utilization of this land.
Chairman Steigerwald read a letter from Mr. Vernon Stubbs,
4125 Fernbrook Lane, who is in favor of the subject property
being developed with single family homes.
Mr. Smith stated that the housing being planned for this
project will be in the $120 to $125,000 range. He stated
they are trying to protect a large stand of mature trees on
this property by designing single family lots.
Commissioner Stulberg inquired if the City were to take on
the project of running sewer service to this property, would
they run the sewer the same way as planned by this
development. Assistant City Engineer Sweeney confirmed this
would be the case. Commissioner Stulberg stated it is his
opinion this is a long way around to run sewer to the
property. Assistant City Engineer Sweeney stated thought
had been given to the area, and that because of the higher
elevation of the line in Fernbrook Lane as discussed, it is
necessary for the property to be served from the southeast.
The sewer plans were shown and discussed.
Commissioner Stulberg inquired about the future Cheshire
Lane extension and when this would be accomplished.
Coordinator McConn explained there are no plans at this time
Z g
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Planning Commission Minutes
February 12, 1986
for the road extension. Road improvements will take place
as development occurs.
Commissioner Stulberg inquired about the length of the cul-
de-sac and whether it would exceed the Ordinance standards.
Coordinator McConn explained that there are no development
plans for the cul-de-sac at this stage. The reason for
platting this area as an outlot is that it will be necessary
to know how the adjoining land will develop. She noted
detailed plans for road circulation on the adjoining
property would occur at the time development is proposed.
Commissioner Stulberg inquired about the property owners who
will be contacted regarding easements and Coordinator McConn
confirmed that the City has not heard formally from the
property owners.
Commissioner Stulberg stated that he has seen other single
family development along the freeway systems that are
attractive and well maintained so he is not so concerned
about this aspect of the development. However, he is
concerned about the layout of this plan and with the pos-
sible loss of affordable housing in an area that is classi-
fied for a higher density. He stated the price range
mentioned by the developer's consultant do not address these
needs.
Commissioner Plufka stated that it should also be noted that
townhomes and condominiums could be constructed as luxury
units in a higher price range which would not translate to
homes available to the low to moderate income purchaser.
However, there is sufficient land area available for single
family housing in lower density areas. Areas where the
Comprehensive Plan shows higher density multiple residence
uses, should be retained so transition and buffering is
maintained throughout the City. He stated he is concerned
about the potential development of a small neighborhood
which could be surrounded by higher density land uses. He
noted that this would be a very small pocket of 24 homes
that don't meet the Criteria of the Housing Element and
Conditional Use Permits, and are not planned with the
adjoining easterly, northerly, or southerly properties.
Chairman Steigerwald stated his concern with regard to the
LA -3 classification where Mr. Braegelmann could propose
plans for attached housing; there would be no transition to
the small single family housing development. He stated it
makes more sense to plan multi -unit buildings in the
southeastern portion of this site and develop single family
dwellings for the northwesterly portion of the site.
Commissioner Plufka added that this could not be defined as
a "neighborhood" as referred to in the Comprehensive Plan,
because it is too small.
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Planning Commission Minutes
February 12, 1956
Chairman Steigerwald stated he understands the developer's
preference and desire to build single family residences;
however, LA -3 classified land does contemplate smaller
units, higher density, and more affordable housing.
Mr. Smith stated there are single family developments in the
area that would tie in with this development plan.
Coordinator McConn corrected an earlier statement by Mr.
Smith, explaining that Fernbrook Lane is a minor arterial
that will have more traffic than a collector street. She
stated that Mr. Sevey's comments are well taken as this is
the beginning of development of a larger area which is with-
in the LA -3 designation which should be considered. She
noted the LA -3 area is bound by County Road 9, Fernbrook
Lane, I-494 and future industrial land.
Commissioner Mellen concurred and stated his opinion that
this development application is premature which could put
pressure on the City to provide utility services to other
land. Chairman Steigerwald explained that if the petitioner
does not obtain the required easements, development cannot
occur.
MOTION by Chairman Steigerwald, seconded by Commissioner
Pauba to recommend deferral of this development proposal
with direction for redesign for multi -family dwelling units
in the southeast corner of the property.
Commissioner Pauba stated he concurs that this development
plan should respond to the current guiding and zoning. He
concurs with Commissioner Plufka that the City's plan should
be followed to maintain good transition between different
land uses.
Commissioner Plufka stated he does not agree with the direc-
tion for adding multiple units for transition. He stated
this would not be a good footprint and he would prefer to
see them stay within the guidelines for the LA -3 classifica-
tion. The Conditional Use Permit is not appropriate and
should not be granted.
Commissioner Magnus concurred stating this development plan
sets a precedent for development in this area.
Roll Call Vote. 3 Ayes. Commissioners Stulberg, Magnus,
and Plufka, Nay. The MOTION fails with a tie vote.
Z
NOTION TO DEFER
NOTION FAILS
TIE VOTE
MOTION by Commissioner Plufka, seconded by Commissioner NOTION FOR DENITAL
Pauba to recommend denial of the development proposal for
the reason that it does not comply nor conform with the
Conditional Use Permit Criteria and Land Use Guide Plan for
the City of Plymouth.
Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried. MOTE - NOTION CARRIED
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Planning Commission Minutes
February 12, 1986
NEW BUSINESS
MOTION by Commissioner Magnus, seconded by Commissioner
*JEFF HOLLE
Piufka to recommend approval for the Site Plan for Mintex
MINTEX CORPORATION
Corporation, subject to the conditions as stated in the
SITE PLAN (86002)
January 28, 1986 Planning Staff Report.
Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried.
VOTE - MOTION CARRIED
Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by Michael J.
MICHAEL J. MERZ
Merz, LeMer Company, reading of the January 31, 1986 Plan-
LAMER COMPANY
ning Staff Report was waived.
SITE PLAN AND
VARIANCE (85104)
Chairman Steigerwald introduced Mr. William LeVahn, 1505
Black Oaks Place, who explained the variance request which
is based on a particular product which uses a drop-off dock.
MOTION by Commissioner Stulberg, seconded by Commissioner
MOTION TO APPROVE
Magnus to recommend approval for the Site Plan and Variance,
subject to the conditions as stated in the January 31, 1986
Planning Staff Report.
Vote. 6 -Ayes. MOTION carried.
VOTE - MOTION CARRIED
Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by Prudential PRUDENTIAL INSURANCE
Insurance Company and R. Johnson Construction. Reading of COMPANY AND
the January 7, 1986 Planning Staff Report was waived. R. JOHNSON
CONSTRUCTION FOR
Mr. Clayton Ziebarth, 2715 Sycamore Lane, stated he is con- CHESLEY CARLSON
cerned about the parking lot drainage and overall drainage MPUD FINAL PLAN/
from this site. He stated he and his neighbors have fought PLAT FOR NWB 9TH
to save the existing trees to provide adequate transition AND SITE PLAN AND
between the site and the neighborhood residences. He is VARIANCE
concerned the trees could be eliminated with this site (85136/85137)
design.
Chairman Steigerwald introduced Mr. Ron Pentz, Prudential
Insurance Company, and Mr. Bob Vetter, R. Johnson Construc-
tion Company.
Mr. Vetter confirmed for Mr. Ziebarth that they have looked
at this situation and explained their grading plans.
Commissioner Stulberg inquired if they envision damaging any
of the trees. Mr. Vetter stated there is a possibility of
impact to only one of the trees.
Chairman Steigerwald inquired if the pipe would be installed
under the trail into the stream. Mr. Vetter confirmed this
would be the case. Chairman Steiqerwald inquired about the
distance between the southeast corner of the building and
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Planning Commission Minutes
February 12, 1986
the stream. Mr. Vetter stated this was approximately 300
ft. Chairman Steigerwald inquired about the difference in
elevation. Mr. Vetter stated the building elevation is
higher than the adjacent residences.
Commissioner Plufka confirmed with Mr. Pentz and Mr. Vetter
that the drawings reflect the area from the creek to the
easement line for the trail will not be disturbed except for
installing the pipe. Mr. Pentz added that there is one acre
of trees in the trail easement that will not be touched.
Mr. Ziebarth confirmed there will only be one pipe installed
on this site. Chairman Steigerwald confirmed for Mr.
Ziebarth that additional plantings will be installed per the
landscape plans. Mr. Ziebarth inquired about the lighting
for the site. Mr. Vetter explained the illumination plan
and that the lights will be pointed downward so as not to
spill glare into the residential neighborhood. Mr. Ziebarth
explained that the lighting from the Harland Check Company
site is disturbing to the residents. He compared the
Ridgedale Center lights which cannot be seen from a distance
and he would like to see the same type of lighting used
within the Northwest Business Campus. Mr. Pentz and Mr.
Vetter explained the lighting within the Northwest Business
Center is high pressure sodium and all lamps point
downward. Mr. Vetter explained to Chairman Steigerwald that
these lights could be seen during the winter monLhb, but
only the glow from those lights, not the fixtures
themselves.
Mr. Mike Keyes, 2645 Sycamore Lane, stated he lives near the
creek and is concerned about drainage that could cut off his
backyard. Mr. Vetter explained the downstream flow. Mr.
Keyes stated the Harland Check Company drainage plan was
altered from previous approvals. Assistant City Engineer
Sohn Sweeney explained that the approved plans are on file
with the City and have been reviewed by all governing
agencies. He explained that the storm water drainage comes
from the northeast corner of the parking lot. Mr. Keyes
inquired if a calculated creekflow has been done. Mr.
Vetter stated the drainage flow for this site has been
designed to meet the City Storm Water Drainage Plan.
Commissioner Plufka confirmed for Mr. Keyes that, the Bas-
sett Creek Watershed Commission has established rules and
regulations that have a bearing on the approval process for
these sites. Coordinator McConn stated that the plans com-
ply with the City's Storm Water Drainage Plan and that
approvals are subject to the petitioner applying to the
Watershed Commission and Department of Natural Resources
for approvals.
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Planning Commission Minutes
February 12, 1986
Chairman Steigerwald inquired if Mr. Keyes had visited with
the Engineering staff at the City regarding his concerns.
Mr. Keyes stated he had not, he had just heard about the
interceptors and change in ponding. Coordinator McConn
stated that ponds are required as part of the total
development plan for the Northwest Business Campus and, as
each site develops, they will look at how that site
development fits into the drainage plan for the entire area.
MOTION by Commissioner Pauba, seconded by Commissioner ; MOTION TO APPROVE
Magnus to recommend approval for the MPUD Final Plan/Plat
for Northwest Business Campus Ninth Addition and the Site
Plan and Variance for Chesley Carlson Company, subject to
the conditions as stated in the January 7, 1986 Planning
Staff Report.
Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried.
Commissioner Plufka stated that in conjunction with the
concern about the lighting, the developer and/or builder
should be careful when positioning the lights so as not to
impact the residential neighbors. Coordinator McConn stated
staff will check the Harland Check Company site lighting and
that perhaps the shields should be adjusted. Mr. Ziebarth
suggested anyone checking out the lighting, drive down
Sycamore Lane to see how harsh the lighting appears to be.
OTHER BUSINESS
The Commission discussed the liaison positions for the Board
of Zoning Adjustments and Appeals, Commissioner Plufka;
Parks and Recreation Commission, Commissioner Magnus; and,
the Development Council, Commissioner Stulberg. The
Commission will consider these liaison positions at their
meeting of February 26, 1986.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:30 P.M.
VOTE - MOTION CARRIED
Examining the Options
for Transit in Communities
Janice Tevanian
Project Manager, ICMA
Redesigning Local Transportation Services Project
Current Status of Transit
Current community transportation service provision
problems comprised the topic of a special ICMA precon-
ference meeting. Traditionally, local governments have
provided fixed -route bus service. This type of service was
designed around a pattern of life that has shifted since the
end of World \Var II when ridership was high and transit
a profitable business. Since World NVar II, however,
ridership has dropped off. By the late 1960s, most private
providers had recognized the lack of profitability of
operating bus service and yielded their franchises to
local governments. This was found to be a drain on local
budgets, and the federal government responded by aid-
ing local government with operating and capital subsi-
dies so that service could continue. There is no\%
discussion of reducing or ending Urban Mass Transporta-
tion Administration (UMTA) operating subsidies, a situa-
tion threatening to compound existing transit problems.
Two of the problems commonly faced by local govern-
ment administrators today are the ever-increasing costs
of providing fixed -route bus service and congestion prob-
lems in concentrated commercial areas. Local govern-
ment officials are now identifying approaches to
addressing these problems. Many communities are re-
alizing that traditional transit services are designed to
service a market that no longer exists to the extent that it
once did. These communities are now rethinking their
transit services, asking themselves such questions as:
• Why is ridership on our fixed -route system so low?
• How? can we get people out of their cars and onto
transit?
• How can transit compete with the private automobile?
• How can we adjust our transportation services to land
use changes and changes in lifestyles?
How can we address congestion problems?
Many local government administrators are also realizing
that the transit market has changed because of the popu-
larity of suburban "bedroom" living, shopping and busi-
ness areas relocating or developing outside of central
business districts (CBDs), and the ease and convenience
of owning and operating private automobiles. The ques-
tion, then, is: How can we design a transportation system
that serves our communities' various transportation mar-
kets? Redesign of transportation services involves exam-
ining a community's mobility patterns, identifying
transportation markets, and planning and designing ef-
fective and efficient systems to meet the needs of the
various markets, e.g., commuters, elderly, and airport/
nonresident. Many communities find that redesign is
facilitated by involving the .private sector. There are
several ins for this:
• Contracdng for service. Local governments are finding
z_C�
that a private transportation operator can often fulfill a
community's transportation needs for a subside substan-
tiallN less than the community's cost of operating the
service.
• Ordinances. Communities are drafting ordinances de-
signed to enlist the support and assistance of their- local
business communities. Ordinances ma,, require that
larger employers implement ridesharin- programs, that
developers contribute land for transit terminals, or that
developers pay fees for transit system improvements.
• Cooperation. Many communities have found that plan-
ning for a community's transportation needs can be
greatly facilitated by inviting the private sector to partici-
pate in the planning process. Developing communities,
especially, have demonstrated to local business that they
can play a role in alleviating congestion, thereby en-
abling continued growth of the community and busi-
nesses.
• Making the best use o/ transportation providers already
operating. Many communities are examining existing
private transportation operations such as taxi cabs and
working with those providers. Some communities, for
example, subsidize c;A11C11S' taAi Lav rides in areas too
sparsely populated for fixed -route, fixed -schedule ser-
vice.
Success Strategies
As a result of community transit research conducted
by ICMA during the past three years, a number of local
government administrators have been identified as inno-
vators in community transportation service provision.
These capable individuals are seen as leaders in address-
ing community transportation needs in innovative ways.
The preconference meeting was designed as a forum
through which these local government administrators
were invited to share approaches and ideas. Some of
their approaches are discussed here. (Refer to box for
participants' names.)
Plymouth, Minnesota
Frank Boyles, assistant city manager of Plymouth,
described Metrolink, Plymouth's community transporta-
tion system. Because Plymouth received a very low level
of transit service through the regional transit authority,
city officials decided to exercise their option to use 90
percent of funds normally contributed to the region to
implement a community transit system. The goal was to
provide service to transportation markets not being
served. Plymouth contracts with a private provider for
this service. Plymouth Metrolink consists of three dis-
tinct transit services:
• ` The commuter and reverse commuter components
make up a time -actuated pulse feeder system. In the
Public Management/February 1986 is
morning, minicoaches circulate along fixed neighbor-
hood routes and delivery passengers bound for down-
town Minneapolis to a park-and-ride lot where they are
collected by large buses. In the evening, the four
minicoaches pick up the passengers bound for Plymouth
from Minneapolis at the park-and-ride lot and deliver
them to their neighborhoods.
• The reverse commuter system, in the morning, utilizes
the minicoaches to carry persons commuting from Min-
neapolis to Plymouth from the park-and-ride lot to their
jobs in Plymouth's commercial/industrial center. The
reverse commuter element is also operated in the eve-
ning to feed into the large Minneapolis -bound buses at
the park-and-ride lot.
• The internal circulator is a fixed -schedule, fixed -route
service designed to serve the major commercial areas,
residential areas, and public service facilities. This ser-
vice operates from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. utilizing one of
the four 25 -passenger minicoaches.
Charlotte, North Carolina
The public and private sectors of Charlotte have dem-
onstrated a commitment to working together toward
avoiding downtown traffic congestion common to rap-
idly developing communities. Five committees of local
private sector chief executive officers made several rec-
ommendations, which were subsequently adopted by a
steering committee. The recommendations include the
following:
• Surveying all employees of a firm to gather information
necessary for assisting the firm in making policy changes.
• Implementing a pilot flextime program for six months
and establishing it on a permanent basis if the program is
successful.
• Businesses' working with parking lot operators to pro-
vide priority parking and cost incentives for carpools and
vanpools.
• Increasing efforts to get new employees involved in
transit or ridesharing.
Wendell White, city manager of Charlotte, and his staff,
taking into account the needs of individual businesses,
have provided extensive assistance to firms interested in
implementing trip reduction programs.
Hartford, Connecticut
Lee Erdman, assistant city manager of Hartford, dis-
cussed Hartford's Transportation Management Organiza-
tion (TMO). The TMO was prompted by CBD growth so
extensive that Hartford's employers were concerned
about Hartford's projected image as a place to work or
shop. In 1981, 33 actions to address congestion problems
were recommended by a joint project of the city and a
downtown business association. The project concluded
that, with the clear delegation of responsibility, these
recommendations could be implemented. Two "respon-
sibility centers" were designated: the city's department of
public works and the Greater Hartford Ridesharing Cor-
poration (The Rideshare Company) for the private sec-
tor. The Rideshare Company was designated as a TMO,
charged with formulating transportation policy and
project implementation on behalf of the private sector.
The TMO was established with a two-year UMTA grant.
Fourteen private sector representatives provide the
TMO policy direction. These representatives are the
TMO's liaisons to individual companies in Hartford.
Some accomplishments of the Hartford TMO are:
• The city council has prohibited deliveries during peak
hours.
• Developers may "trade off" building required parking
spaces for agreeing to conduct ridesharing activities.
• Possibilities for publicly run shuttles from satellite lots
are being explored.
Phoenix, Arizona
Severo Esquivel, deputy city manager of Phoenix, ex-
plained the elements of the service provided there. Pub-
lic transit in Phoenix, except for a small E&H service
comprising less than 1 percent of the total budget, is
contracted out to private providers. Phoenix provides a
$30 million system, although the city operates almost
none of it. Fifteen city employees administer the con-
tracts. Furthermore, other area communities contract
with Phoenix for service. Among the services provided by
Phoenix are the following:
• Fixed -route, fixed -schedule service.
• A dial -a -ride service where population is not dense
enough to provide fixed -route, fixed -schedule service
efficiently. This is operated by a local cab company.
• A city-wide Sunday dial -a -ride service. This is an exten-
sion of the weekday dial -a -ride service to sparsely popu-
lated areas. It is also operated by the local cab company
utilizing small buses and cabs. The city is in the process
of developing a small bus option after the union's having
agreed that small bus drivers will be paid at half the rate
of drivers driving large buses. Phoenix is also designing a
process by which land developers would be required to
contribute land to the city for bus bays to be utilized as
part of the current transit system and space for potential
future rapid transit needs.
Sharing Ideas
Although it is clear that no single approach to redesign
can solve every community's transportation problems,
the rethinking of local transportation service provision
and implementation of new ideas is becoming wide-
spread, and the peer network is an important vehicle for
sharing new ideas. In response to member needs regard-
ing transportation, ICMA seeks to identify and facilitate
the sharing of innovation among communities. Meeting
participants felt that this approach could help them
effectively address future community transportation
needs through knowledge of innovation occurring in
other communities. Local government administrators
feel that they can learn from examples set by their
colleagues. An innovative approach tested in a commu-
nity, modified, can be effective in another.
The Urban Mass Transit Administration (UMTA) has
funded a two-year program, Redesigning Local Trans-
portation Services, conducted by ICMA. The program
has included two workshops in addition to the pre-
conference meeting described in this article. Further
project findings and results will be published in
ICMA's March Management Information Service
(MIS) Report For more information about the pro-
gram, contact Janice Tevanian at ICMA.
16 Public Management/February 1986
i.�
February 20, 19aE
Mr. Ron Engel
200 No. Holly Lane
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Ron:
PITVC
PLYMOUTH+
- \Oc:
Councilmember Sisk has relayed your concern with regard to the lack of cable
service in the Kingswood Addition. I am aware of this problem and want to
assure you that Suburban Cablevision Company will be moving promptly this
spring to install cable in your neighborhood.
Both Jim Willis and I have previously sought to have the company expedite
its extension of cable into your neighborhood as it was originally
overlooked a couple of years ago. I recently contacted Mr. John Eddy, the
Executive Vice President of Suburban Cablevision, who has confirmed that
they will make the Kingswood neighborhood their first construction project
this spring. I am enclosing a copy of his letter for your information. If
you have not noticed the initiation of construction for your cable service
by June 1, please give me a call so I can follow up with the company.
We are all sorry that your neighborhood has not been able to receive cable
service, but hope that this situation will be corrected early this spring.
After you have received cable service, I would invite you to watch the City
Council meetings live on Cable Channel 7 on Monday evenings.
Best regards,
Virgil Schneider
Mayor
VS:jm
encl
cc: City Council
John Eddy, Executive Vice President, Suburban Cablevision Company
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
Suburban Cablevision Company • 6901 Winnetka Avenue North • Brooklyn Park, Mn 55428 • (612) 533-8347
Reply To:
February 13, 1986
Mr. Virgil Schneider
11520 54th Avenue N
Plymouth, MN 55442
Dear Virgil:
As we discussed in our recent telephone conversation,, Cable TV Northwest is
planning to begin its construction season with Kingswood Farms. If normal
weather conditions are prevalent this spring, we should be able to initiate
our construction activity in May.
At the time the system was transferred from Storer to Suburban Cablevision
Company, the Cable Commission agreed to exempt Suburban from the construction
requirements of the Ordinance for the year 1985. This was done to allow us
an opportunity to focus our attention on the customer service aspects of the
business, and to generally get established within the community. As a
result, we did no residential cable construction this past summer.
Virgil, you may recall that Kingswood Farms was originally overlooked by
Storer in 1984. Both you and Mr. Willis were concerned about this and have
worked very hard to bring service to those residents living within Kingswood
Farms. As a result of your efforts and the efforts of Mr. Willis, Suburban
plans to start our 1985 construction season with Kingswood Farms.
incerely,
John R.
Executive Vice President
Suburban Cablevision Company L.P.
JRE/grs
Hauser Communications, Inc.
New York Office
437 Madison Avenue, 36th Floor
New York, New York 10022
(212) 832-8788
Office
Hauser Communications, Inc.
Arlington Office
2707 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, Virginia 22201
(703) 841-7720
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February 19, 1986
Mrs. Mark Eckes
12231 Highway 55
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Mrs. Eckes:
t
CITY C�
PLYMOUTR
I can truly say we all, both City Council and City staff members, were
stunned to hear of Mark's passing. In his many capacities and interests,
Mark touched each of us by his dedication and civic mindedness. Over the
years, he acted as an untiring advocate for senior rights and has been
almost singularly responsible for reminding the Council of its respon-
sibilities to the segment of Plymouth's population consisting of senior
citizens. As a result of Mark's efforts, Plymouth is a better community.
On behalf of myself, the City Council, and City staff, please accept our
heartfelt condolences. May you find strength in the knowledge that the
fruits of Mark's efforts continue to flourish in many aspects of our
developing community.
Sincerely,
Virgil Schneider
Mayor
VS:jm
cc: City Council
City staff
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
February 18, 1986
CITY OF
PLYMOUTR
Mr. Paul W. Wilson, III
10920 38th Avenue No.
Plymouth, MN 55441
Dear Paul:
Z- 10 Q_,
Congratulations on achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. It is an award very
few boy scouts receive and it will help you the rest of your life. I find
it most interesting that you have achieved the rank before your 13th birth-
day.
My wife and I thought our son was doing well, he just turned 16 and has his
project left to go before being an Eagle. To receive the Eagle Scout award
at age 12, says a lot for your troop, your scout master, your parents and
certainly, yourself. Good work!
I also find it interesting that your project was to organize your neighbor-
hood into a crime watch area. As you probably know, the crime watch program
is one of the most effective ways of deterring and apprehending criminals
that break into homes.
In closing, I, and other members of the City Council would like to
personally thank you for your project and honor you for your achievement at
the beginning of a Council meeting. If you can work it into your schedule
(I would suggest the Council meeting of March 3 or 17), please call the City
Manager, dim Willis, at 559-2800 so that I may know when you can be in
attendance.
Congratulations again Paul, and please let this be a beginning, and not an
end. There are palms to be earned and leadership positions in the troop
that will need your help.
Sincerely,
Virgil Schneider
Mayor
VS:jm
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD. PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONE (612) 559.2800
Z= lac,
Ann S. Wilson
1683§38TH PEKE - PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55441
PHONE 5441493
February 11,1986
Mayor Virgil Schneider
8400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, Minn. 55447
Gear Mayor Schneider,
Our son Paul W. Wilson, III has recently earned his
Eagle Scout award. We would be very grateful and we know
he would be tickled to receive .a letter of congratulation
from you. If at all possible, we would appreciate receiving
it b;: March 9, the date of his court of honor.
For :your information Paul is onlx 12 years ofd
indicating a very rapid advancement and significant
dedication to his scouting effort. In his 20 months as.
scout he has already earned 32 merit badges.
For his Eagle project Paul lead our neighborhood in
cooperating with the Plymouth, Minn. police to organize our
area into a Grime Watch area..
Besides scouting, Paul is an H- student, .active in
basketball, cross country, golf and swimming, plays the
Piano and Yi+0la and is active In his church.
Thank you so much +or ;:our time and effort.
'=sincerely,
Ann Wilson
February 19, 1986
Lani Beam
13973 Quentin Avenue So.
Savage, MN 55378
Dear Lan!:
I have received your letter regarding your disappointment in beinq tagged
for having parked in a handicapped parking space at the Wayzata Sonar High
School. _T_ - ", —
I regret that you improperly parked in a handicapped spot and were tagged as
a consequence. As you are undoubtedly aware, State law requires that handi-
capped reserve parking be provided at all public buildings. While
handicapped individuals may not have been able to particioate in the event
you were attending, it is possible they could have been in attendance as
spectators or perhaps attending some other activity at the school. In any
event, it is the practice of our police officers to tag persons in violation
of parking in handicapped stalls. I can assure you, however, that our
police officers do not go out of their way to patrol for such violations.
They routinely patrol areas in which the public congregates in order to
maintain security of the area and to reduce the incidence of breaking and
entering parked vehicles as well as other vandalism.
Thank you for your sharing your concern with me.
Yours truly,
Azjc�_- L, /,'_
Virgil Schneider
Mayor
VS:jm
cc: City Council
Dick Carlquist, Public Safety Director
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447. TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
4k
-r'
MINNETONKA-PLYMOUTH ROTARY CLUB
February 13, 1986
Mr. Eric Blank
Director of Parks and Recreation
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Eric:
I have the distinct pleasure to inform you
that in a recent board meeting, The Minnetonka -
Plymouth Rotary voted a contribution of $1,500.00
for 1986 and another $1,500.00 for 1987 or a
total of $3,000.00 to be used toward your Fitness
Course at the Zachary Playfield.
We would also appreciate the opportunity of
assisting you to set this course up, working one
or two Saturdays this spring.
Again thank you for the opportunity to serve
you.
Sincerely,
/�'_
,/i�iy1
HARRY B. DEAN, JR
HBD:ec Chairman, Community Service
Service Above Self • He Profits Most Who Serves Best