HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 11-27-1985T
CITY OF
PLYM0UTFF
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
November 27, 1985
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS.....
1. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING -- Monday, December 2, 7:30 p.m. Reqular
City Council meeting in City Council Chambers.
2. PLANNING COMMISSION -- Wednesday, December 4, 7:30 p.m. The
Tanning Commission will meet in the City Council Chambers. Agenda
attached. (M-3)
3. THANKSGIVING HOLIDAYS -- City offices will be closed Thursday,
November 28 and Friday, November 29.
4. SUBURBAN HENNEPIN REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT - HEADQUARTERS DEDICATION
-- Attached is an invitation from the oard of Commissioners of t e
Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District for the dedication of their
new Headquarters Building in Plymouth on Thursday, December 5.
Tours of the new facility will begin at 4:00 p.m., with the formal
dedication ceremony taking place at 6:00 p.m. (M-4)
FOR YOUR INFORMATION.....
1. MINUTES:
a. Planning Commission, November 20, 1985 (I -1a)
b. Park and Recreation Advisory Commission, November 14, 1985
(I -1b)
2. CORRESPONDENCE:
a. Letter from State Auditor Arne Carlson providing a review of
conclusions from the November 8 meeting of local and state
Officials to discuss the state's revenue problems and the effect
they could have on local governments. (I -2a)
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD. PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559.2800
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
November 27, 1985
Page 2
b. Letter from Niel Nielsen to Chief Carlquist on receiving the
1985 Public Safety Award of Merit. (I -2b)
Happy Thanksgiving,
es G. Willis
Ci Manager
JGW:jm
attach
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 1985
WHERE: Plymouth City Center
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
CONSENT AGENDA
All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine by the Planning
Commission and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of
these items unless a Commissioner, citizen or petitioner so requests, in which event
the item will be removed from the consent agenda and considered in normal sequence on
the agenda.
PUBLIC FORUM
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
3.* APPROVAL OF MINUTES
7:15 P.M.
7:30 P.M.
Planning Commission Minutes, November 20, 1985
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Holiday Stationstores, Inc. Site Plan and Conditional Use Permit Amendment
for property at 10900 State Highway 55. (85088)
B. Scanticon Corporation and Prudential Insurance Company. Mixed Planned Unit
Development Final Plan, Site Plan, Conditional Use Permit, and Variance for
"Scanticon" on property northwest of Campus Drive and Xenium Lane in the
Northwest Business Campus (85117)
C. Pastor Robert Nygaard, St. Mary's of the Lake Church. Preliminary Plat for
property at 105 Forestview Lane North (85119)
D. Glory of Christ Lutheran Church. Zoning Ordinance Textual Amendment for
property at 18640 County Road within the FRD (future restricted development)
District of the City. (85120)
5. NEW BUSINESS
None
6. OLD BUSINESS
A. Bob Fields and Brian Zubert. General Development Plan Amendment, Site Plan,
Conditional Use Permit and Variance for property at 28th Place and Glacier
Lane (85109)
7. OTHER BUSINESS
8. ADJOURNMENT 10:30 P.M.
The Board of Commissioners of the Suburban
Hennepin Regional Park District cordially
invites you and your guest to the dedication
of its new Headquarters Building, to be held
�rom 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday, December 5,
1985.
4 p.m. Building Tours
Hors d'oeuvres
6 p.m. Dedication Ceremony
7 p.m. Regular Semi-monthly Board
Meeting
The Headquarters is located at 12615 County Road 9,
Plymouth. The entrance is on the south side of County
Road 9, one-half mile east of 1-494. Coming from 1-494,
take the first right turn after the semaphore on County
Road 9 and West Medicine Lake Road.
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
NOVEMBER 20, 1985
The regular Meeting of the Plymouth Planning Commission was
called to order at 7:30 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Steigerwald, Commissioners
Magnus, Stulberg, Plufka, Mellen and
Pauba.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Commissioner Wire
STAFF PRESENT: Community Development Coordinator
Sara McConn
City Engineer Sherm Goldberg
Community Development Secretary
Grace Wineman
*CONSENT AGENDA AND
MINUTES
MOTION by Commissioner Pauba, seconded by Commissioner
Stulberg to recommend approval of the November 6, 1985
Minutes as submitted.
VOTE 5 Ayes. Commissioner Plufka abstained. MOTION
carried.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by doe Hamm for
"Hamm Berg Addition" and requested an overview of the Nov-
ember 7, 1985 staff report by Coordinator McConn. Chairman
Steigerwald inquired about the Outlots. Coordinator McConn
stated she was not aware whether contact has been made with
any of the adjoining property owners and there is no verifi-
cation that an exchange will occur.
Chairman Steigerwald introduced Mr. doe Hamm. Mr. Hamm
stated he had contacted the developer of "Woodlands" and
they stated they were coming to this meeting to talk about
the feasibility of an exchange of the outlots. He stated he
was aware of the recommendation for Outlot E Woodlands, but
was not awware of Outlot A until he received the staff
report.
Chairman Steigerwald opened the Public Hearing.
Sandy Ritter, 120 1st Ave, stated he is a representative for
the Woodlands development. He was not prepared to say that
an exchange of outlots would be feasible as he had not had
the opportunity to look into the situation until recently.
He stated that on the surface it is logical and he doesn't
see any major concerns, however, he does have a concern re-
garding the setbacks to 45th Avenue North.
!1pz.4Me
*MINUTES OF NOVEMBER
6, 1985
VOTE - MOTION CARRIED
BOE HAMM, FINAL PLAT
CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT, SITE PLAN
AND VARIANCE (85102)
Page 262
Planning Commission Minutes
November 20, 1985
Mr. Ritter stated that he would like to know the transition
of the single family dwellings from the 4-plexes on the
south. He stated he recognizes the density is appropriate
with this guiding, but would like to be assured that berming
and landscaping will be accomplished to soften the impact
from the single family residential neighbors; and, that the
interface of these two parcels is a discussion point.
Chairman Steigerwald inquired about the variances to the
north; Coordinator McConn explained the proposed setback to
the public street of 35 ft. vs. 50 ft.
Mr. Ritter pointed out the areas of transition that would be
of most concern; Coordinator McConn explained the measures
for transition as proposed. Chairman Steigerwald stated he
could see the concern for the lots to the north .
Mr. Ritter stated he does not object to the four-plex build-
ings. Comissioner Plufka stated the configuration of the
buildings is important and there should be buffering between
these developments.
Mr. Sam Goldstein, 4350 Trenton Lane, inquired if the pro-
posed development abuts his property. Coordinator McConn
explained the location of the development and advised Mr.
Goldstein the property he is concerned about is an un-
developed area which was once owned by Orrin Thompson
Company.
Chairman Steigerwald closed the Public Hearing.
Commissioner Plufka inquired about the berming on the north
side of the building noting that in looking at the topo-
graphy, perhaps berming will not be effective. He inquired
if the building is on-grade to 45th Avenue. Mr. Hamm
answered affirmatively, and explained that he couldn't
explain the details but that berming will be done in front
of the buildings.
MOTION by Commissioner Stulberg, seconded by Commissioner MOTION TO APPROVE
Plufka to recommend approval for the Final Plat, Conditional
Use Permit, Site Plan, and Variance for "Hamm Berg Addition"
subject to the conditions as stated in the Novmber 7, 1985
staff report.
Commissioner Pauba stated he is concerned about the number
of variances; that he does not oppose the project but would
like to see this development combined with the land to the
east. Commissioner Stulberg stated he understands Commis-
sioner Pauba's concern. However, it appears that develop-
ment of this remnant parcel is dependent upon the variances
as requested; and, the development does tie in with the
area. Commissioner Pauba agreed the parcel is difficult to
work with.
Page 263
It Planning Commission Minutes
November 20, 1985
Chairman Steigerwald stated that an allowance should be
given for the boundary areas to provide more room internally
for the development. He stated this takes care of the
practical concerns such as snow storage areas. Commissioner
Plufka agreed that the number of variances is high, but be-
cause of the topography and additional berming, the requests
are reasonable. He stated concern with the selection of
Summit Ash as a planting noting this is a light, airy tree
which may not afford adequate screening.
Coordinator McConn stated that with other applications the
City Council and Planning Commission have considered reduc-
tion of yard areas and have required additional landscaping
to mitigate this situation. Commissioner Plufka stated that
the Ash would not provide a year round screening and he
would like to see conifers along 45th Avenue. He stated it
is not necessary to have an impervious screen, but this
would break-up the sight lines between the single family and
multi -family units.
MOTION to AMEND by Commissioner Pauba, seconded by Commis- MOTION TO AMEND
sioner Plufka to require additional landscaping in lieu of
the variances being requested; and, that staff make a recom-
mendation regarding the type and size of conifers.
Chairman Steigerwald stated the "key" for one sheet shows
the symbol for 4" Maples, however, they do not appear on the
landscape plan. He inquired where they would be located.
Mr. Hamm stated that when this plan was submitted it was not
acceptable to staff and he submitted a revised plan. Co-
ordinator McConn confirmed that the first plan did not meet
the Landscape Policy requirements and was revised. She
stated there were no conifer plantings provided and the
Policy requires a certain number of conifer and deciduous
trees.
Commissioner Stulberg stated that even 6 ft. Evergreens may
not be enough to diminish the visual impact because of the
difference in elevation of the lots to the north. Commis-
sioner Plufka stated he is not looking for total screening
but would like to see a plan that will break up the visual
impact. Coordinator McConn explained the preliminary grad-
ing plans and the elevations.
Roll Call Vote on Amendment. 3 Ayes. Commissioners VOTE - TIE VOTE
Stulberg, Mellen, and Chairman Steigerwald, Nay. Tie Vote. AMENDMENT FAILS
Motion fails.
Commissioner Stulberg stated that as there will be plantings
around the buildings to soften the corners, direction could
be given to staff regarding the final landscape plan for
additional shrubbery and under -story plantings.
Page 264
Planning Commission Minutes
November 20, 1985
Mr. Ritter stated that the landscaping is important and he
would like the Commission to stipulate additional plantings
and he will support the staff's recommendations.
MOTION to Amend by Commissioner Stulberg, seconded by Com- MOTION TO AMEND
missioner Plufka that complete landscape drawings to be re-
viewed by staff prior to be submission to the City Council,
which will locate additional plantings around the buildings
on the north side.
Roll Call VOTE AMENDMENT. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried. VOTE ON AMENDMENT
MOTION CARRIED
Roll Call VOTE on MAIN MOTION as ONCE AMENDED. 6 Ayes. VOTE ON MAIN MOTION
MOTION carried. MOTION CARRIED
Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by Michael
Anderson for "Anderson's Pheasant Trail". He requested an
overview of the November 6, 1985 staff report by Coordinator
McConn.
Chairman Steigerwald introduced Tom Loucks, Tom Loucks &
Associates, representing the -petitioner. Mr. Loucks stated
they will comply with the landscaping requirements and that
Lot 2, Block 3, will be adjusted to meet the minimum stand-
ards as directed by staff.
Chairman Steigerwald opened the Public Hearing.
David Peterson, 5240 Cottonwood Lane, stated he has no
objections to this development but is hopeful they will be
as careful in developing this land, such as the maintenance
of existing trees, as was done with the Harrison Hills
project.
Brad Phipps, 5309 Ximines Lane, stated he lives adjacent to
the proposed development and he echoes the concern on re-
taining the trees, especially those that exist as a separ-
ation between this development and Harrison Hills. He in-
quired about the transition to the single family residential
area.
Mr. Loucks stated their plan ties into the Harrison Hills
development and he pointed out the existing vegetation that
will be retained where they will supplement with additional
landscaping. He stated they propose to move existing over
story trees to other areas of the development where
practical.
Mr. Phipps stated there has been alot of construction occur-
ring in this area which has been on-going for many years.
He stated the roadways have been damaged and construction
debris is prevalent. He also inquired whether berming, such
as provided from Harrison Hills to the railroad track, will
be provided with this development.
MICHAEL ANDERSON
PRELIMINARY PLAT
REZONING, CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT AND
VARIANCE (85103)
Page 265
Planning Commission Minutes
November 20, 1985
Phyllis Hanson, Landscape Architect, stated that Colorado
Blue Spruce and American Linden provide a dense screen and
will be placed adjacent to the railroad track. They are
proposing construction of the units with the side yards to
the railroad tracks and only those units at the end of the
development will be impacted.
Mr. Phipps reiterated the damage to roadways by heavy con-
struction equipment and he inquired how the City controls
the maintenance of roads during construction. City Engineer
Goldberg explained that the developer is bonded for the con-
struction of streets; and, that financial guarantees are
provided for site work and erosion control which includes
street cleaning. He agreed that there are some roads which
were repaired and have now resettled and need additional
work. Coordinator McConn explained that development and
construction within Harrison Hills began prior to the City's
establishing the Erosion Control Policy.
Mr. Phipps inquired when the repair work and/or street
cleaning would be called for by the City. Coordinator
McConn explained that this is done when ever it is needed,
that the City has a cash deposit from the developer so the
City can contract to have the work done. City Engineer
Goldberg stated the City requires the developer to have a
contract with a street sweeping company. Mr. Phipps inquir-
ed about roadways that are used by the construction vehicles
but are not around or within a new development. City
Engineer Goldberg assured that all areas showing construc-
tion debris on the roadways would be cleaned. Mr. Phipps
stated it is his opinion that the Ordinance is inadquate.
He inquired about the outlots in this development. Mr.
Loucks explained the outlot that is proposed because sewer
is not available; and, the outlot designated for common open
space for the residents of the development.
Mr. Phipps reiterated his concern about the length of time
it has taken to complete construction in this area. He in-
quired if the City would designate a time -frame in which
construction is to be completed. Chairman Steigerwald ex-
plained there is no City Ordinance that calls for a time-
frame for construction. Coordinator McConn explained that
Development Contracts and Financial Guarantees for develop-
ment; construction; and, site improvements, provide that all
work will be completed. However, a time frame for build -out
is not established.
Mr. Phipps stated there should be an Ordinance to protect
adjacent homeowners. Commissioner Plufka stated he has
found that the financial guarantees and contracts posted
with the City have provided a marked improvement in the
clean-up of construction debris and timely completion of
site improvements and he has noted this in his own
neighborhood.
Page 266
Planning Commission Minutes
November 20, 1985
Coordinator McConn suggested that Mr. Phipps call the City
offices with any future problems and concerns. She also
explained the Site Performance Guarantee provisions now in
effect.
Robert Keiser, 10750 53rd Avenue, stated he lives directly
north of the proposed development and is concerned with the
setbacks; and, that proposed 53rd Avenue North will impact
his and other residents' driveways. He is also concerned
that traffic coming from the proposed development will
impact their homes because of headlight glare. Mr. Keiser
stated the drawings are inaccurate with respect to the loca-
tion of the existing driveways. Coordinator McConn res-
ponded that, a review of the original Harrison Hills plans
will be necessary to check the location of the existing
driveways and determine if they were constructed as
approved.
Mr. David Peterson stated these drives are temporary because
at the time of development he was unable to contact the
owner of the property now proposed for development to dis-
cuss the extension of 53rd Avenue.
Coordinator McConn responded to Mr. Keiser's concern about
headlight glare and advised there are no plans for addition-
al landscaping for the Harrison Hills development.
Chairman Steigerwald stated that impacts from the extension
of 53rd Avenue North will be considered by staff and the
developer.
Mr. Keiser inquired about the density for this development
and if the development of multi -family buildings will affect
the property values of the single family residences. Mr.
Loucks stated that the density is higher in Harrison Hills
than what is proposed for this development.
Coordinator McConn explained the density for the proposed
development is within the LA -2 (low medium density resi-
dential) Guide Plan designation.
Mr. Loucks explained the future development plans and the
constraints on further development of this area.
Mr. Keiser stated his concern that the density for this
development is misleading. Coordinator McConn explained
that the Ordinance allows 26 townhouse units and this pro-
posal calls for 24 townhouse units. Chairman Steigerwald
stated the development plan is consistent with development
in the surrounding areas. Mr. Keiser inquired about the
prices for these homes. Chairman Steigerwald explained that
the developer is not required to guarantee the prices of the
homes to be constructed. Mr. Loucks stated the proposed
style of the homes will fit into the surrounding
neighborhoods.
Page 267
Planning Commission Minutes
November 20, 1985
Chairman Steigerwald closed the Public Hearing.
MOTION by Commissioner Pauba, seconded by Commissioner MOTION TO APPROVE
Magnus to recommend approval for the Preliminary Plat, Re-
zoning, Conditional Use Permit, and Variance for Anderson's
Pheasant Trail, subject to the conditions as stated in the
November 6, 1985 staff report.
Roll Call VOTE. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried. VOTE - MOTION CARRIED
Chairman Steigerwald stated the Minutes shall reflect the
concerns conveyed by Mr. Keiser and the residents of
Harrison Hills in the area of 53rd Avenue North, regarding
the buffering and landscaping; and, the location of the
existing driveways.
Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by Hew -Lynn, HEW -LYNN, INC.
Inc., for Land Use Guide Plan Amendment. He requested an LAND USE GUIDE PLAN
overview of the November 6, 1985 staff report by Coordinator AMENDMENT (85118)
McConn.
Coordinator McConn explained the number of owners for prop-
erties in this quadrant and the City's suggestion for a co-
hesive development of this area.
Chairman Steigerwald introduced Mike Gair, Gair & Associ-
ates, representing the petitioner. Mr. Gair clarified the
property area and guiding designations.
Chairman Steigerwald opened the Public Hearing.
Dale Berthiaume, 16650 101st Avenue North, inquired if this
development will be single family residential. Mr. Gair
stated the guiding reclassification request is for LA -3
(high medium density residential) which will accommodate
twin homes and 4-plexes; and, these housing types will be
proposed with their development plans. Mr. Berthiaume
stated his concern about residential dwellings along the
freeway. Mr. Gair stated this is a valid concern, however
this property is at least a quarter mile from I-494.
Chairman Steigerwald closed the Public Hearing.
Commissioner Stulberg confirmed there will be no access from
this property to County Road 9.
MOTION by Commissioner Plufka, seconded by Commissioner MOTION TO APPROVE
Stulberg to recommend approval for the Land Use Guide Plan
Amendment for Hew -Lynn, Inc., subject to the conditions as
stated in the November 6, 1985 staff report.
Roll Call VOTE. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried. VOTE - MOTION CARRIED
Page 268
Planning Commission Minutes
November 20, 1985
OTHER BUSINESS
Coordinator McConn identified the planning applications to
be reviewed by the Commission at their meetings in December.
An'" IRNbFNT
The Meeting adjourned at 9:00 P.M.
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
November 14, 1985
Page 34
Present: Commissioners Anderson, Beach, Edwards, LaTour and Reed; staff Blank,
Brown, Busch, Patterson and Pederson; George Watson of Brauer
and Associates; and Councilmember Vasiliou
Absent: Commissioner Mullan
1. CALL TO ORDER
Commissioner Edwards called the November meeting of the Park and Recreation
Advisory Commission to order at 7:33 p.m.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Commissioner Reed and seconded by Commissioner Anderson
to approve the October minutes as presented. The motion carried.
3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
a. Athletic Associations. No representatives were present.
b. Staff. Rick Busch explained the enrollment charts for his programs
that had been distributed to PRAC members with their packets. Team
sports enrollments continue to increase from year to year. Some of
the special events held at Plymouth playfields this past summer
included the 1985 Boys World Softball Tournament, and the Minnesota
Recreation and Park Association Co-Rec Softball Tournament. Currently
Rick is reviewing applications from warming house attendants. Rinks
are scheduled to open December 21. Other winter programs starting soon
are broomball, 5 -man and 3 -man basketball, power and unofficiated co-rec
volleyball, 4 -man hockey and whiffleball.
Mary Patterson discussed enrollments in her programs from January through
September. Fall figures are not available since most of those programs
are still in progress. A new program for winter is In the Heart of the
Beast Puppet Theatre's presentation of La Befana at Wayzata Senior High.
This program is being jointly sponsored by Plymouth Park and Recreation,
the Art Center of Minnesota and Wayzata Community Education. The
November/December issue of Plymouth on Parade was distributed to residents
in early November and the January/February issue will be out the week
between Christmas and New Year's. Skiing in Plymouth, sponsored by the
Plymouth Civic League, is scheduled for January 18.
Ruth Brown discussed the programs she is involved in which include
aquatics, wallyball, waterpolo, and special events for families and
children. She recently took over the supervision of the youth fall
soccer league which continues to have high enrollment. There were
only a few complaints regarding team assignments this year. We've
been invited to participate again in 1986 in the TV11 Health Fair.
Because the 1985 Health Fair here at the City Center was only success-
ful due to high employee participation, we will not get involved in
1986. The second annual Iceman Triathlon is scheduled for February 8.
Some of the holiday programs Ruth is running include making a Ginger-
bread house, an event for families; Santa's mailbox and a Christmas
with Mother Goose, events for children. Ruth is also involved in a
New Year's Eve overnight party at Robbinsdale Community Center. This
program is being sponsored by MADD and SADD (Mother and Students Against
Drunk Driving). Ruth will be introducing some programming for single -
parent families in 1986, and also some programming for industrial
PRAC Minutes
November 14, 1985
Page 35
employees in Plymouth. Director Blank announced 'that the park and
recreation department has begun the initial planning for computerized
registration. We hope to start using it for our summer programs. He
also stated that we have begun thinking of some "unusual" revenue-
producing programs that PRAC can review in the future.
4. REPORT ON PAST COUNCIL ACTION
The Council recently approved the Parkers Lake budget, Brauer's contract
for Phase I development of Parkers Lake park, and the CIP and 1986 budget.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Parkers Lake Phase I Construction Plan. George Watson of Brauer and
Associates was present to discuss the Phase I construction of Parkers
Lake park which will include the trail loop around the park, basic
grading, storm sewer, seed and sod, one picnic shelter, three comfort
stations (restrooms), entry signs, the road and parking area on the
south side of County Road 6, beach, underground utilities for the
bathhouse, artificial pond and fountain at the park entrance and
buffer plantings. At the present time, there is enough funding for
only one picnic shelter. If bids are reasonable, there may be enough
money to construct two or three. Commissioner Reed questioned the
necessity of the fountain and pond in Phase I. Director Blank stated
that he felt it was necessary from an aesthetic/visual standpoint and
that it would help to "identify" our first City park. It's an unusual
feature that no other park in Plymouth has. Flowers will be planted
around the fountain, and it will help attract people to the park.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER BEACH AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
LATOUR TO APPROVE THE PHASE I CONSTRUCTION PLAN FOR PARKERS LAKE CITY
PARK AS PRESENTED BY GEORGE WATSON OF BRAUER AND ASSOCIATES, LTD. The
motion carried. Commissioner Reed asked to be sent some information
on the fountain.
b. Neighborhood Park Improvements Update. Green Oaks park is basically
finished, with trails paved, playground equipment in, and re -sodded.
A bike rack is still to be installed. At Circle park the playground
equipment is in place but is not cemented in, and sand is not installed
yet.
c. PRAC Education. It was suggested that PRAC training for new members
and new Council members should be sometime in January. This item
will be discussed again at the December meeting. PRAC encouraged the
Council to replace Betty Threinen as soon as possible.
6. NEW BUSINESS
a. Proposal for Wells Fargo Gamefield Grant -Fitness Court. Director
Blank reviewed PRAC's earlier action approving the submittal of a
grant for a fitness court to be installed in Zachary park. He
announced that we had received a grant in the amount of $3,600 from
Wells Fargo Bank. The additional cost of $4,280 will be required
from park dedication's city playfield account. This fitness court
will be installed in the spring with the help of a community group.
The court will include a number of exercises to help athletes prepare
for their activities at the park, as well as follow-up exercises which
are a cool -down process that should be completed prior to leaving
the park.
PRAC Minutes
November 14, 1985
Page 36
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER LATOUR AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
BEACH TO APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF A FITNESS COURT FOR ZACHARY PLAYFIELD
USING FUNDS FROM THE PARK DEDICATION CITY PLAYFIELD ACCOUNT TO COVER
THE BALANCE OF THE COST. The motion carried.
b. 1985 PRAC Annual Report. A draft copy of the 1985 annual report will
be available for the January meeting with the final report ready by
February 13. Commissioners should review their 1984 reports for changes
in style, content, etc. In December, commissioners should be prepared
to list their 1986 goals and objectives.
C. Lake Ridge Estates Plat. Director Blank briefly reviewed this new
plat which was recently submitted to the City. It is located on the
northern border of Plymouth, west of 1-494, and includes most of the
shoreline around Mud Lake. Director Blank pointed out that this site
is one of the two that was proposed for neighborhood park when the
comprehensive plan was first developed. The other alternative was
Pomerleau Lake, but it has become apparent that that site will not be
available to us. Therefore, it becomes very important to consider
this site for park dedication from the developer. A MOTION WAS MADE
BY COMMISSIONER EDWARDS AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER LATOUR TO PRESERVE
AS PLATTED THE SHORELINE AROUND MUD LAKE WITH CONDITIONS THAT BECOME
APPROPRIATE AS PLAT IS REVISED FOR LAKE RIDGE ESTATES. The motion
carried.
7. COMMISSION PRESENTATION
Commissioners Edwards, Beach and LaTour will be attending some of the
sessions of the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association's Annual
Conference in St. Paul, November 20-22.
8. STAFF COMMUNICATION
Director Blank briefly reported on the National Recreation and Park
Association Congress which was held in Dallas in October. One of the
more interesting ideas he learned about while there was a White Amur
fish developed in China which eats lake weeds and algae. These fish
are currently being used in 17 states in the U.S., but are illegal in
Minnesota. A written report on the White Amur fish will be sent to each
commissioner.
Councilmember Vasiliou was present at the PRAC meeting and spoke to the
commissioners reassuring them that she is not against parks and recreation.
She indicated that she is supportive of our programs and is very pleased
with our diversity. However, she pointed out that Council's first respon-
sibility is to see that necessary services such as fire and police protec-
tion, sewer, streets, etc., are provided first. She stated she supports
acquiring land for parks through park dedication only, but that the City
must then maintain that land which does cost the taxpayer.
9. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m.
ARNE H. CARLSON
STATE AUDITOR
STATE OF MINNESOTA
OFFICE OF THE STATE AUDITOR ,
SUITE 400
555 PARK STREET
SAINT PAUL 55103 ,
November 15, 1985
TO: City Councils and City Finance Officers
County Boards and County Auditors
FROM: Arne Carlson, State Auditor
On October 8, our office sponsored a forum on Local Government Revenue
Stress to bring together local officials and state officials to discuss the sta-
te's revenue problems and the effect they could have on local governments.
About 170 of you attended. Nellie Johnson, Deputy Commissioner of Finance; Tom
Triplett, Commissioner of Revenue; and Bill Schreiber, Chairman of the House Tax
Committee, were the key presenters on the state side, with Dr. Paul Hasbargen of
the University of Minnesota speaking on the agricultural outlook.
In view of the close financial relationship of local governments and the
state --or the average, the state provides 28 percent of city revenues and 49
percent of county revenues --our objective was to give participants the oppor-
tunity to make their own assessment of the most likely scenario for state reve-
nues and potential cuts in state -to -local funds. It is our concern that the
longer any fiscal bad news is postponed, the more difficult it is for local
governments to react financially. While we recognize local budgets for 1986 are
already set, we also believe that it is better to plan for contingencies at this
time than later, during your fiscal year. For this reason, it seems useful to
share with you some of our principal conclusions from the discussions on
November 8.
1. As matters now stand, the state is without an official, or "point" revenue
forecast. In July and again in October, three differing economic scenarios were
released --a high, "control," and low scenario. The mid-range or control sce-
nario in July projected general fund resources to be $538 million below general
fund spending; the control scenario in October projected general fund resources
to be $736 million below general fund spending. (The forecasts and ranges are
shown below.) Since the forecasts are a range, however, the state's revenue
shortfall is projected to be between a $160 million shortfall and a $915 million
shortfall. As the chart below shows, the "bottom line" for state general fund
resources ranges from a positive $300 million (in the optimistic scenario) to a
negative $400 million (in the pessimistic scenario). The "bottom line" con-
templates use of the state's $450 million budget reserve and the suspension of
income tax indexing, estimated at $77 million in revenue. The state will make
an official or "point" revenue forecast on January 21. Prior to the legislative
session which begins February 6, the administration will release its budget for
the state's 1987 fiscal year, which will include any cuts or tax increases.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
- 2 -
F.Y. 1986-87 General Fund Balance
($ in millions)
High Control Low
July Forecast Range (134) (538) (811)
Budget Reserve 450 450 450
Suspend Indexing 0 81 81
Balance 316 (7) (280)
BOTTOM LINE 300 0 (300)
October Forecast Revisions:
Major Revenue Sources
4
(153)
(84)
Other Resources
(1)
(1)
(1)
Gain from F.Y. 1985
11
11
11
Expenditure Changes
(40)
(53)
(30)
Total Forecast Revisions
(26)
(196)
(104)
October Forecast Range
(160)
(736)
(915)
Budget Reserve
450
450
450
Suspend Indexing
0
77
77
Balance 290 (209) (388)
BOTTOM LINE 300 (200) (400)
Source: MN Dept. of Finance
10/22/85
2. At the conference, Deputy Commissioner Johnson announced that the state
revenue collections for October were $18 million above the prior control or mid-
range forecast. This is the forecast where the state general fund revenues are
$736 million below spending for the biennium; if the $450 million budget reserve
is used and indexing is suspended, this forecast predicts a negative $200
million "bottom line."
3. Also at the conference, Representative Bill Schreiber commented that if the
December revenue reports indicate that the state general fund budget must be
cut, the Governor should call a special session in December to allow local
governments more time to react to any cuts. Only the Governor, however, can
call a special session.
4. If cuts in the state's general fund expenditures are necessary, they will
almost certainly affect local governments. Aid to school districts and post-
secondary education are 24 percent and 18 percent respectively of the state
general fund budget. Major credits and assistance (homestead credit, circuit
breaker and agricultural credits) are 16.1 percent of the general fund budget,
and local government aid is 5.7 percent. By way of comparison, state agencies
comprise 8.5 percent of general fund spending. In the 1981-83 budget crisis,
the majority of both payment shifts and reductions affected local governments.
- 3 -
5. We strongly recommend that local governments begin contingency planning now
for possible cuts in state -to -local funds. The actual size of reserves needed
will vary depending on the size of the local government and particularly on the
relative importance of non -state revenues in your budget. At a minimum, there
should be sufficient reserves to provide regular cash flow without short-term
tion of general purpose state aids --those which seem most likely to be reduced
if there are state revenue shortfalls. Finally, reserves should be accumulated
sufficient to accommodate any particular situation unique to your jurisdiction --
an anticipated equipment purchase you intend to make from current revenue, for
example; or anticipated delinquency in property tax revenue.
6. We also recommend developing a plan for the next two years to accumulate
reserves to protect your jurisdiction against state revenue shortfalls, and
making the planning process include the public. Making your constituents and
legislators aware of your fiscal objectives is the best way to prevent the crit-
icism of reserves that sometimes surfaces. Be assured that our office will
continue to support reserves as a prudent financial management strategy for
local governments.
7. For planning purposes, you may wish to note that Dr. Hasbargen projected a
25 percent decline in the estimated market value of agricultural land in 1985
(to be reflected in 1986 assessments). He was not optimistic on farm incomes,
commenting that the agricultural recession is in the second stage where it is
"hitting Main Street" and that we may be coming to the third stage where it
affects the entire state.
Judging from our discussions on local finance, the Office of the State
Auditor can play a useful role in this process. We intend to continue to moni-
tor developments and comment on them when necessary. If our office can be of
help in a specific situation, please let me know.
4 a
CITY OF
PLYMOUTR
November 26, 1985
Richard J. Carlquist
Chief of Police
Department of Public Safety
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Chief:
I was very pleased to receive the Award of Merit at the second annual
Public Safety Awards dinner held at North Memorial Hospital on November
21, 1985. It is an honor to receive this award and it means a great deal
to me. I am very proud of it. Thanks so much for nominating me for this
award.
Chief, I would also like to take this opportunity to tell you that it
is a privilege to work under your leadership as you have done much to
make the Plymouth Police Department one of the most respected and pro-
gressive Police departments in Minnesota.
Again, I would like to say that I am very proud to have been nominated
to receive the Award of Merit, and I will try to live up to the image of
this honor.
Si ncerely,
k. Is- .
N.O. Nielsen
Investigator
Plymouth Police Department
cc: James Willis
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
I