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Home My WebLink AboutCouncil Information Memorandum 03-28-2003rg)Dummy MARCH 28, 2003 Youth Advisory Council March 31 meeting agenda........................................................................ Page 3 Planning Commission April 2 meeting agenda................................................................................ Page 4 Human Rights Commission April 3 meeting agenda....................................................................... Page 5 Official Meeting Calendars for April, May, and June 2003............................................................. Page 7 Tentative list of agenda items for future City Council meetings .................................................... Page 13 NEWSARTICLES, RELEASES, PUBLICATIONS, ETC. News Release for National Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month ...................................... Page 14 MNDOT Metro Division February 2003 project summary........................................................... Page 17 Moving Transportation Projects Forward (MOVE) In Motion News update ................................. Page 18 LMC/MN Mayors Association April 9 City Day at the Capitol notice ........................................... Page 20 STAFFREPORTS Information from Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt regarding land useplanning workshops.................................................................................................................. Page 21 Report on Met Council's "Guidelines for Priority Funding for Housing Performance" ................ Page 30 Memo from Lt. Dan Plekkenpol, Police Department Building Expansion Study Committee Chair regarding a tour of newer police buildings to compile information regarding space needs ............ Page 43 Notice from Sr. Engineer Tech. Dan Campbell regarding Old Rockford Road Closure beginning April4, 2003................................................................................................................................... Page 44 Plymouth Parks & Recreation Summer 2003 Concert Schedule .................................................... Page 45 CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO March 28, 2003 Page 1 CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS POLICY—CORRESPONDENCE Letter to Marilyn McAlpine responding to concerns about signage at gas stations. A copy of Ms. McAlpine's original letter is attached.................................................................... Page 46 Summary of 2003 correspondence tracking................................................................................... Page 48 CORRESPONDENCE Letter to Mayor Johnson from Chief Judge Kevin S. Burke responding to concerns over the possible closure of one or more suburban courthouses.................................................... Page 49 Wayzata Youth Hockey Association Letter to residents regarding the possibility of a third ice sheet at the Plymouth Ice Center................................................................................... Page 51 Letter from Marie Kunze, Manager, Property Tax Division, Hennepin County Taxpayer Services Department to Dwight Johnson informing him of a printing error on 2003 property tax statements that havejust been mailed..................................................................................................................... Page 52 Post Card from Great River Energy, Wright Hennepin Cooperative Electric's power supplier, regarding an application for a Certificate of Need with the MN Public Utilities Commission to upgrade and expand its existing electric transmission system in central Plymouth and Maple Grove. Informational Meeting has been set for Wed., April 2"d 6 pm to 8 pm at the Maple Grove CommunityCenter.......................................................................................................................... Page 53 Hennepin County News regarding County Road 101 Construction and detour starting April 7 From west junction with State Highway 55 to Hackamore Road .................................................. Page 54 YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL MARCH 31, 2003 7:30 PM COUNCIL CHAMBERS L Approvals: a) Agenda b) March 17 meeting minutes Time Allotment 7:30-7:35 Z. Guest Speakers and Special Items: 7:35-8:00 a) Lt. Mike Goldstein on Citizens Academy program 3. Committee Updates: 8:00-8:15 a) Youth Services Awards Committee b) Intergenerational Committee c) Marketing Committee d) "Corner Center" Committee 4. Future agenda items 8:15-8:20 5. Adjournment 8:20 6. Additional Materials: a. Letter from Caribou Coffee corporate offices regarding donations b. Youth Advisory Council 2002-2003 attendance c. April, May, and June Official City Meeting Calendars PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2003 WHERE: CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS Plymouth City Hall 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 CONSENT AGENDA All items listed on the consent agenda* 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. 1. CALL TO ORDER - 7:00 P.M. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. PUBLIC FORUM 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 6. CONSENT AGENDA* A. Skyline Design, Inc. Approve variance to allow an impervious surface area coverage of 47 percent for a three -season room addition for property located at 14865 18`h Avenue North. (2003012) B. Empire Building and Remodeling. Approve variances for lot area, lot width, and side yard setback to allow reconstruction of a fire -damaged home upon the existing foundation at 3515 Walnut Grove Lane North. (2003028) 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Lifestyle Properties, Inc. Rezoning, preliminary plat, and site plan for construction of "Bass Lake Villas" an 18 unit development to be located south of Bass Lake Road (County Road 10) and east of Trenton Lane. (2003004) B. St. Barnabas Lutheran Church. Site plan amendment and conditional use permit for a columbarium, courtyard, and trail to be located behind St. Barnabas Lutheran Church located at 15600 Old Rockford Road. (2003014) C. GEM Enterprises. Rezoning from C-2 (Neighborhood Commercial) to PUD (Planned Unit Development) and a PUD general plan for the existing Plymouth Shopping Center located at 11255 State Highway 55. (2003015) D. Stonewood Design Build. Conditional use permits to allow construction of 1) a single family home on property that does not front a city street and 2) an attached garage in excess of 1,000 square feet for property located at 235 Black Oaks Lane North. (2003018) E. Insurance Advisors Inc. Conditional use permit to allow 56.7 percent office use within a building located in the I-2 (General Industrial) zoning district, for property located at 15020 27`h Avenue North. (2003023) 8. NEW BUSINESS A. Amy Slaughter. Interim home occupation license to operate a beauty salon at 18415 3151 Avenue North. (2003013) 9. ADJOURNMENT AGENDA Plymouth Human Rights Commission April 3, 2003 Student Subgroup Meeting 6:00 p.m., Medicine Lake Room Regular Meeting at 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers 1. Call to Order 2. Approve Minutes 3. Approve Agenda 4. Committee Reports A. Student Workshop -- "Affirmative Action," April 23 B. Intergenerational Committee -- "Why Do They Hate Us? The Roots of Terrorism," April 14 S. New Business A. Essay Contest B. Evaluate Work Project Assignments for 2003, Chair Hal Broxey C. Membership Update D. Plymouth Web Site — Human Rights Commission information 6. Announcements and Articles (for your information) A. "Religion in our nation's public schools" and Five year Jewish holiday calendar submitted by Mort Ryweck, League of MN HRC B. National Fair Housing Advocate C. "Sexual Harassment in Housing" article D. Tolerance.org Articles: a. "Homeland Insecurity: Intolerance in a Time of War" b. "Women's History Month: Focus on Afrmative Action " c. "White Privilege Swimming Racial Preference" d. "Is the American Dream Still Alive? " E. Human Rights Commission Meeting Dates for Golden Valley, New Hope, Hopkins and St. Louis Park F. New Hope Agenda and Minutes G. Letter to City Employee regarding prior HRC recommendation H. Proclamation of the Days of Remembrance, adopted by the Plymouth City Council on March 25 I. The Children's Theatre Company presents Korczak's Children J. "Poll: Public split on affirmative action," The Miami Herald" 7. Adjourn Upcoming Meeting Events List is attached Next Meeting: May 1, 2003 Commission Norms and Protocol, facilitated by Ginny Clark OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS April 2003 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 S 7:00 PM 7:00 PM HUMAN PLANNING RIGHTS COMMISSION, COMMISSION - Council Chambers Council Chambers 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 DAYLIGHT SAVINGS COMMENCES- set clocks ahead hour 8:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING. DISCUSS POND CLEANING OPTIONS AND POLICY FOR HANDLING DRAINAGE CONCERNS, Public Safety Training Room 7:OOPM EVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE (EQC), Plymouth Creek Center 7:00 PMHOUSING a REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (HRA), Madidn. Lek. Room 7:W PM PARK & REC ADVISORY COMMISSION FRAC), Councl Chambe s PRIMAVERA PLYMOUTH FINE ARTS COUNCIL SHOW Plymouth Creek PRIMAVERA PLYMOUTH FINE ARTS COUNCIL SHOW Plymouth Creek 700 PM REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Counctl CMmbera LMC CITY DAY AT THE CAPITOL PRIMAVERA PLYMOUTH FINE ARTS COUNCIL SHOW PCiyemoe h Creek Center Center 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 7:30 PM YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL, Council 7'.00 PM BOARD OF EQUALIZATION, C-4 Passover begins at sunset Good Friday Chambers 7; 00PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING (IMMEOIATELY FOLLOWING BD. OF PRIMAVERA PLYMOUTH FINE ARTS COUNCIL EOUAUTITION): DISC USS 2001 AUDIT REPORT; REPORT ON 3RD SHEET OF ICE, C 11Chrbara SHOW, Plymouth Creek Center PRIMAVERA PLYMOUTH FINE ARTS COUNCIL SHOW, PLAn Cr Cents 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Easter a 00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING: DISCUSS POSSIBILITY OF BUSINESS COUNCIL ND A SENIOR COUNCIL, Public Safely Training Room 8.00 AM -1:30 PM -HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION STUDENT WORKSHOP, %Y—� 1. C t. 7:00 PM PLANNING COMMISSION, Coundf Chambers 9:00 AM -2:00 PM LAWN tot GARDEN EXPO, Plymouth Creek Center 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council CMmbem 7:00 PM PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT (PACT) - MW.— Lake R- oom 27 2 7 p 2(J 7:30 PM YOUTH ADVISORY 29 11:45 AM PLYMOUTH-MTM BUSINESS COUNCIL, Sheraton Ridgedale 30 Mar 2003 S M T W T F S May 2003 S M T W T F S 1 1 2 3 COUNCIL, 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Council Chambers TDO PM RECONVENE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION Council Chambers 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 30 31 modified on 3/27/2003 OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS May 2003 Sunday I Monday Tuesday I Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Apr 2003 Jun 2003 S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 7:00 PM HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION - 2 3 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Council Chambers 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 27 28 29 30 29 30 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 7:00 PM 7:00 PM PARK & 10:30 AM - 4:00 PLANNING COMMISSION, Council Chambers REC ADVISORY COMMISSION (PRAC), Council Chambers PM PLYMOUTH HISTORY FEST, Parkers Lake Park 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 7:30 PM YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL, Council Chambers S:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING- INTERVIEW YOUTH PROPOAPPLI`$I1)S�PANSIo OF PUBLIC SAFETY BUILDItdG; Publio Safety TniningRoom 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers 7:00 PM EVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE tEQC), Plymouth Creek Center 8.30 PM -8 30 PM ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY FAIR, Plymouth ``°°ICarter 7:00 PM HOUSING d REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (HRA), Medicine Lake Room 7:00 PM YOUTH SERVICE AWARDS RECEPTION, Plymouth Creek Canter 9:00 AM -3:30 PM PLYMOUTH CLEAN-UP DAY, Public Works Malntenence Facility 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 11:00 AM CITY EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION LUNCH, Plymouth Creek Center 7:00 PM PLANNING COMMISSION, Council Chambers 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 MEMORIAL DAY1t (Observed) - City Offices Closed 45 AM PLYMOUTH-MTKA BUSINESS COUNCIL, BORNCon�; Conference Room, Carlson P.rkvny, 4thaoor 7:00 PM PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT (PACT) - Medicine Lake 7:00 PM REGULAR Room COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers modified on 3/27/2003 L %. OFFICIAL CITY MEETINGS June 2003 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 S 6 7 7:00 PM 7:00 PM HUMAN PLANNING RIGHTS COMMISSION, COMMISSION - Council Chambers Council Chambers 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 7:30 PM YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL, Council Chambers 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers 7:00 PM EVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE (EQC), Plymouth Creek Center 7:00 PM PARK & REC ADVISORY COMMISSION (PRAC), Council Chambers Flag Day 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 7:00 PM PLANNING COMMISSION, Council Chambers 7:oo PM HOUSING b REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (HRA), Medidne Lake Room LEAGUE OF MINNESOTA CITIES ANNUAL CONFERENCE, St. Cloud Civic Center 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 7:30 PM YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL, Council Chambers 11:45 AM PLYMOUTH-MTKA BUSINESS COUNCIL, Sheraton Ridgedale 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers 7:00 PM PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT (PACT) - Medicine Lake Room 29 30 May 2003 Jul 2003 S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 27 28 29 30 31 modified on 3/27/2003 April 8 April 22 Tentative Schedule for City Council Agenda Items • Announcement of "Where's Lester" contest winner • Approve payments to social service agencies • Approve Variance to allow an impervious surface area coverage of 47 percent for a three -season room addition for property located at 14865 18th Avenue North. Skyline Design, Inc. (2003012) • Approve a correction to the legal description for Resolution 2002-055 that approved a lot division and lot consolidation for Outlot A, Bass Lake Estates 3`d Addition and Outlot G, Bass Lake Estates 2nd Addition. City of Plymouth. (2001153) • Approve Tobacco License for Essex Gifts, 505 N. Hwy. 169, #75 • Set public hearing to initiate bond issue for Street Reconstruction Project • Set public hearing on 5 -year Street Reconstruction Plan • Amend workplace policies • Consider appointments to Human Rights Commission • Accept donation from Senior Club and Plymouth -Minnetonka Rotary Club • Approve paving of hockey rink at Bass Lake Playfield • Presentation of 2002 Volunteer Services Report, Volunteer Coordinator Nancy Anderson • Vacation of 2nd Avenue within Greendale Addition • Public hearing on reducing bonds for Regency Point • Award bid on Street Reconstruction Project � J News Release Plymouth Police Department For Immediate Release Lt. Scott Webb March 25, 2003 763-509-5188 Plymouth Takes Part in the National Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month The Plymouth Police Department encourages community members to take part in Hennepin County's Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention campaign during the month of April. This campaign began in 1994 to heighten awareness about child abuse and neglect, and to mobilize families, schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces to work together to prevent violence. On March 25, Mayor Judy Johnson and the Plymouth City Council issued a proclamation to designate April as Child Abuse and Prevention Month. Plymouth Police Officers will wear blue ribbons, a national symbol of child abuse prevention, to recognize all young victims and create awareness to help keep kids safe. Residents are encouraged to join the City in this initiative and pickup their own ribbon at the Plymouth Police Department. In 2000, over three million cases of child abuse and neglect were reported to child protection agencies nationwide and an estimated 1,356 children died of abuse and neglect. In Hennepin County alone, there were 7,700 confirmed cases of child abuse or neglect in 2000 - thirteen of these children died from physical abuse and five children died from neglect. In 2002, 35 children were victims of abuse or neglect in Plymouth. Child abuse and neglect have a tremendous impact on society and preventing it is the responsibility of every caring community member. Plymouth's goal is to raise awareness, encourage discussion, and stimulate action that will create communities where every child is valued and loved, according to Lt. Scott Webb. The average person can help in many ways. • Report suspected child abuse or neglect to the police department. ■ Establish an atmosphere in your home where your children feel comfortable sharing and discussing sensitive matters that have made them feel hurt, scared, uncomfortable or confused. Children are often too afraid or too confused to report their experiences and their fears. ■ Know where your children are at all times. Be familiar with their friends and daily activities. ■ If your children are to play or ride bike away from your home, they must be with a buddy. ■ Establish a family password that you will use only in emergency situations. ■ Be sensitive to changes in your children's behavior. These changes are signals that you need to tune into what is different in their life. ■ Be alert to a teenager or adult who is paying an unusual amount of attention to your children or giving them inappropriate or expensive gifts. Return these gifts for your child to set what is an acceptable boundary. ■ Teach your children to trust their own feelings and assure them that they have the right to say NO to what they sense is wrong. ■ Listen carefully to your children's fears, and be supportive in all your discussions with them. ■ Teach your children that no one should approach them or touch them in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable. If someone does, they should tell their parents immediately. Yell, Run, Tell. ■ Carefully select baby-sitters or any other individuals who will have custody of your children. Research day care facilities by securing references, consulting police records, the Better Business Bureau, the State Licensing Department and Fire Code compliance data. ■ For in home child care, you may request each family member over the age of 18 provide a release to have a criminal background check run. You may also contact the local police department to determine what, if any, calls for police service have been made to this home and neighborhood. Basic Rules for Child Safety. As soon as your children can articulate a sentence, they can begin learning how to be safe. Prepare your children with these tips. ■ If they are in a public place and get separated from you, tell them to go to a checkout counter and tell the person in charge that they have lost their mom and dad and need help in finding them. ■ They should never get into a car or go anywhere with anyone unless you have told them that it is okay. ■ If someone follows them on foot or in a car, they should stay away from them and DON'T GO NEAR THE CAR! ■ Grownups and other older people who need help should not be asking children for help; they should be asking older people. ■ No one should be asking them for directions or to look for a "lost puppy" or telling them that their mother or father is in trouble, and that they will take you to them. ■ If someone tries to take them somewhere, tell them to quickly get away from them and yell or scream. "This man is trying to take me away" or "this person is not my mother." ■ Use the "buddy system" and never go places alone. ■ Children should always ask permission to leave the yard or play area or go into someone's home. ■ Children and teens should never hitchhike or try to get a ride with anyone unless their parents have told them it is okay to ride with the person. ■ No one should ask them to keep a special secret. If hey do, tell their parents or teacher. ■ If someone wants to take their picture, they should tell their your parents or a teacher. ■ Teach kids that no one should touch them in the parts of the body covered by the bathing suit, nor should they touch anyone else in those areas. Teach them that their body is special and private. ■ Tell your children it is okay to be assertive. They have the right to say NO to someone who tries to take them somewhere, touches thems, or makes them feel uncomfortable in any way. / CI W Mn/DOT METRO DIVISION PROJECT SUMMARY February 2003 ROADWAY: Interstate 494 from Interstate 394 to Minnesota River (18.2 miles) CITIES/COUNTIES: Cities of Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Edina, Minnetonka, and Richfield / Hennepin County BACKGROUND: The I-494 Proposed Build projects will replace pavement and bridges, add at least one lane of capacity in each direction along the corridor, build in advantages through corridor management, provide continuous bus -only shoulders, and improve interchanges. Semi -directional interchanges are proposed at 1-3 5W and TH 100, as well as single -point interchanges at Penn, Lyndale, and Portland Avenues. To help ease congestion along the corridor, transit and freight advantages will be emphasized before, during and after the reconstruction. The Parallel Arterial Reliever Route System, under development by the adjacent cities, is critical for providing congestion relief along the corridor. ESTIMATED PROJECT COSTS AND CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE: 1. Trunk Highway 5 to Trunk Highway 100 — Construct 3rd lane in each direction and replace/redeck numerous bridges. Letting Dates include 4-02, 11-02, and anticipated 3-03. Phase I(a) construction costs 3.2 M, Phase I(b) construction costs 28.6 M and Phase II estimated construction cost $41 M and estimated R/W cost $10 M. 2. Interstate 394 to Trunk Highway 5 — Construct 3rd lane in each direction and replace numerous bridges. Anticipated Letting Date SFY 2011. Selected as an advance design, design build project with RFP ready fall 2003. Estimated construction cost $67 M and estimated R/W cost $5 M. 3A.Trunk Highway 100 to Penn Avenue — Construct up to 6 travel lanes in each direction, construct a semi -directional interchange at TH 100, construct a collector -distributor roadway system thru the TH 100 interchange and replace numerous bridges. Anticipated Letting Date is beyond 2012. Estimated construction cost $121 M and estimated R/W cost $60 M. 3B. Lyndale Avenue to 34`h Avenue — Construct up to 6 travel lanes in each direction, improve access at Portland Avenue, eliminate access at Nicollet Avenue and 12`h Avenue, and replace numerous bridges. Anticipated Letting Date is beyond 2012. Estimated construction cost $116 M and estimated R/W cost $60 M. 4. Penn Avenue to Lyndale Avenue — Construct up to 6 travel lanes in each direction, construct a semi -directional interchange at I -35W, construct a collector -distributor roadway system thru the I -35W interchange, and construct numerous bridges. Anticipated Letting Date is beyond 2012. Estimated construction cost $143 M and estimated R/W cost $55 M. CURRENT ISSUES: Refining design details for the preferred alternative Preparing layout for Mn/DOT staff approval and municipal consent Preparing official map Prima_ry Contact: Chris Roy, PE Area Engineer (651)582-1305 Area Manager: Thomas O'Keefe, PE Metro Division (651)582-1296 Sent By: ROSS THORFINNSON JR; 9529440951; Mar -24-03 22:43; Page 2/3 M Af'IW AVr��: F �r iter rte' - /Pvw '.,*sei"'' Rause 'Happenings Transit Show & Tell: House members presented a series of bills that would provide initial funding for a variety of transit projects including busways, LRT, park & ride lots and transit hubs located throughout the Metropolitan area. These proposals requested over $BM in state funds. If approved, a number of the 'transitway' proposals would leverage additional federal funds. Operating Costs: The various bus and rail projects would require operating funds, which are in short supply at this time- Chair Kuisle asked local proponents whether their community was prepared to assist in paying the costs of operating the additional transit lines. No one answered in the positive. Senate Snippets Northster Commuter Rall Proposal: Representatives of Northern Ring suburbs and Anoka County provided Senate Transportation Committee members with an overview of the state's first commuter rail line proposal. Northstar supporters are seeking funding to match federal dollars that are available for starting new transit systems. The plan Integrates rail and road improvements in a highly congested traffic corridor that stretches to St. Cloud As with presentations in the House a number of legislators inquired about operating costs and how they would be funded. Governor's Plan — No Reaction. Senators virtually ignored the Governor's transportation proposal, noting that it was 'smoke & mirrors' or 'credit card' financing. Observers are not expecting much out of the Senate regarding transportation since for the last decade they have continually forwarded transportation funding packages that were never approved in the House, The Administration's no tax pledge and House support for that position makes It less likely for the Senate to 'stick its neck out by proposing increased funding. Senior Senate transportation supporters already concerned about the long-term impacts of the Governor's plan aren't likely to promote increased spending for roads while health care, education, natural resources, economic development programs are cut significantly. Administration Announcelnents Transportation Packago-Not Much Happening: It was expected that the Administration would make a big push after it announced its 'bonding & advanced funding' plan, but after a series of fly -around press conferences little action has occurred. No significant lobbying has occurred particularly aimed at legislators saying ' this doesn't do much for' — you pick the topic — transit, rural roads, cities or counties, 'projects in my district'. Transportation organizations remained 'uninspired' by the plan that adds no new money and only advances projects 'up the list. Balancing Act: The Governor's 'no tax' pledge when combined with campaign promises to do something about transportation presents a political dilemma which has lead to the creation of a transportation plan that does little to inspire supporters while giving critics a lot to focus on. Transportation supporters for years have indicated that it will take real leadership particularly from a governor in order to move forward a transportation package that addresses the nearly $1 Billion annual funding shortfall. It doesn't appear that the near future will see any progress on that goal. MN/DOT Machinations Debt Service Problvma: The Administration's 'bonding plan' relies on reallocating a significant amount of operating funds to pay for the 20 year bonds. It seems that aside from the immediate issue at hand — whether those reallocations affect service Sent By: ROSS THORFINNSON JR; 9529440951; Mer -24-03 22:44; Page 313 & safety — working out the numbers is przsenting a problem as well. NLVDOT officials indicate that over the next tew years the reallocation of funds can be absorbed but questioned whether funds can be committed for 20 years without projecting an impact. It appears that internal discussions in regard to work, operations, inflation and deferred maintenance are making the numbers tougher. M(. -)VF, Message What about the Buses?l Most everyone acknowledges that Metro Transit is the backbone of the regional transit system. To date, there has been no effort by any legislator, advocacy group, business organization or local elected official to put forth a funding proposal that will keep the existing bus system running at current capacity. The system that currently moves over 150,000 people a day will experience its V round of service cuts in the last two years adding more cars to the regions congested freeways. Last week alone, legislators, county commissioners, advocacy organizations and business representatives paraded a variety of proposals before the legislature to fund NEW systems, which will require ADDITIONAL operational dollars. As noted before, an increased investment in the existing system is the most cost effective and easily implemented strategy to address the regions growing congestion problem. A decade of neglect, lost opportunity and harangues about rail systems has left our regions bus system on the brink. Worse yet - no one seems to care!!! Capitol Chatter • Fees GVWng Noticed.' Increases in fees proposed by the Administration are catching the eye of Senate Budget chairs that have indicated that those increases could amount to the 'hundreds of millions' of dollars. Transportation advocates are puzzled in that numerous user fees will be increased but not the most obvious - license tabs and fuel taxes. • Props* Tax Implications: The battle for the heart, soul and more importantly supportivote of the property tax payer continues as numerous reports are released showing impacts of state revenue cuts and spending shifts on local taxes. Transportation comprises a significant amount of city and county budgets so local road and bridge activities can expect to be nipped as well. • Response of elected official to questioning on how a new transit line's operations would be funded --'I'd expect it to be included as part of the existing system'. This one must have missed the 20% budget cut discussions OR believe this project is more important than existing services. infoCs'izmovemn.org LMC League of Minnesota Citi Cities promoting exca%lana March 24, 2003 Dear City Official, 1llinnesota Miayors Association Please join your colleagues Wednesday, April 9, for City Day at the Capitol to send a resounding message that public policy proposals by the Governor and Senate don't work for Minnesota communities. Our goal is to gather 1,000 people on the Capitol steps to show the magnitude of our concerns. We need you, your elected officials and members of your community to help reach this goal. Proposals by the Governor and Senate would impact every Minnesota community — regardless of their reliance on state aids. While state aid cuts are severe and have been the focus of media coverage, the proposals from the Governor and the Senate related to levy limits and levy freezes, and the Governor's proposal to place restrictions on debt, to implement reverse referenda, and to impose salary freezes on local governments are of grave concern to all Minnesota cities. To increase the strength of our message, please bring your elected city officials, a member of your business community and a resident to City Day at the Capitol. We must show legislators that it is communities as a whole that will be hurt by these proposals, not just city government. We will start the day with a legislative briefing, gather in force for a press conference on the Capitol steps, and then meet with legislators. (More details will be published in the coming days on the League's web site, in Cities Bulletin, E Bulletin and Friday Fax.) To help you explain to business leaders and residents the real impacts of these proposals, the League is posting a toolkit on its web site at www.hnnc.org. The first installment focuses on the business community. The kit will be expanded this week to include resident -focused templates and tools, and the following week will focus on lobbying tips and tools. You also can find a spreadsheet that details the Governor's proposed cuts to state aids on the League's web site at www.lmnc.org/pdfs/gov—Iga_cuts-03.pdf. There is no time to hesitate. Please, RSVP today with your name — as well as those of the elected city officials and the business leader and resident who will join you — for City Day at the Capitol. There is no charge to participate. RSVP today by sending an e-mail or fax with your name, title and city name to Stephanie Lake, LMC public relations coordinator. E-mail: slake@hnnc.org. Fax: (651) 215-4141. In addition, include the names of the other city officials, and the business leaders and residents, who will be joining you. An RSVP is encouraged to ensure an accurate meal count. If you have questions, need information via fax or mail, please call Stephanie at (651) 215-4031. Sincerely, xCh 11 r p Michael McCauley ` ' _ 1 ilii: Gary Doty President, League of MinAesota Cities President, Minnesota Mayors Association City Manager, Brooklyn C,� �! Mayor, Duluth 145 University Avenue -2044 • (651) 281-1200 • (800) 925-1122 • www.Imnc.org DATE: March 25, 2003 TO: Plymouth Planning Commissioners cc: City Counc' FROM: Anne Hurlbrt, Community Development Director (763 509-5401) SUBJECT: Government Training Service (GTS) Land Use Planning Workshops Attached is the brochure for this year's GTS programs. Please contact me or Barb Senness (763 509-5452) as soon as possible if you are willing and able to attend any one of the workshops. The City will cover your registration fee. M �`®ra : e P IM OR, 1LO C ACIP- OVER MMIV C Special Insert Training & Consulting for the Times: GTS brings Leadership and Staff Development Programs to You ?-�11114w°' N GENERAL INFORMATION Government Training Service is pleased to once again offer workshops designed especially for citizen planners, planning staff and students. Sessions provide opportunities for in-depth study of current topics and hands-on application. While many of these pro- grams and presenters have been part of our planning curriculum for many years, the content is constantly revised and updated to ensure today's issues are addressed. We are also introducing three new workshops in 2003. PROGRAM FEATURES INCLUDE ❖ Accomplished faculty with extensive backgrounds in both planning and instruction ❖ Focus on current issues and timely information ❖ Practical content designed by a committee of planning experts and local officials ❖ Extensive handouts and reference materials.assembled to make your job easier CORE PROGRAMS & SPECIAL FOCUS PROGRAMS Core programs cover basic issues related to all cities, counties and townships regardless of size or location. As they have been designed to build upon each other, participants are encouraged to attend them in sequence. Special Focus Pro- grams cover specific topics of interest to jurisdictions addressing particular'situations or issues. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? Members of planning commissions, boards of adjustment and appeals, and governing bodies in Minnesota cities, counties and townships. Also valuable for members of other advisory commissions, housing and redevelopment authorities, staff, real estate professionals, and others working in areas related to specialized workshop topics. Some workshops are targeted to individuals with certain levels of experience/expertise. See individual workshop pages in this catalogue to help.you deter- mine which course(s) are best for you! . FEES The following registration fees include handout materials and refreshment breaks. Luncheon meal is included in full-day pro- grams only. ❖ 599/person — The Basics ❖ 5125/person — Beyond the Basics, Advanced Zoning, Site Planning, Environmental Planning or Using the AUAR S50/person — Boundary Adjustments, Your Role as Planning Commission Chair orTechnology Tools Full-time students can register for any full-day workshop for $50 or any half-day workshop for $25. REGISTRATION/CANCELLATION Register at least seven days prior to the workshop date using the form in this brochure. Fill out one form per individual. Because registration is limited in most sites, we encourage early registra- tion to guarantee your spot on your preferred date! Fees will be refunded less a $15 service fee if the registration is cancelled four working days before the program. You may substi- tute another individual for the same workshop at any time if you find. - you cannot attend. Should weather (or other circumstances beyond our control) necessitate program cancellation or postponement, registrants will be notified via announcements on WCCO-AM radio and other local Minnesota radio stations. QUESTIONS? Carol Schoeneck (program) - cschoeneck@mngts.org 651-222-7409 extension 205 Brian Smith (registration) - brismith@mngts.org 651-222-7409 extension 207 WORKSHOP SITES All workshop sites are accessible to persons with disabilities and have convenient parking for participants. A small sleeping room block has been reserved for the night before the seminar as indicated below. Rooms will be held until three weeks before the workshop date. Participants needing such accommodations should make reservations directly with the hotel. Make sure and mention the "GTS Land Use Planning Workshop" when making reservations to obtain the rates cited below. If you require overnight accommodations in a site where a room block has not been reserved, contact GTS to obtain a list of convenient hotels. Bemidii Holiday Inn Exp 2422 Ridgeway Avenue 218-751-2487 Sleeping Room Rate:. $55+tax (single or double) New Ulm Community Room Family Recreation Cent 122 South Garden Street 507-359-8344 Mankato Mankato National Guard Building Martin Luther King Jr. Drive 507-389-2358 St. Cloud Best Western Kelly Inn Highway 23 & 4"' Ave. S. 320-253-0606 Sleeping Room Rate: $62+tax (single] or $82+tax (double) University of Minnesota St. Paul Campus Earle Brown Continuing Education Center 1890 Buford Avenue 651-624-3411 Environmental Quality Board Training Room.. 302 Centennial Office Building 658 Cedar Street F. x (Please print or type. Form must be duplicated when registering more than one person) First Name Last Name Title How long in this position? Jurisdiction/Agency Street Address City State - Zip Daytime Phone Fax Number E-mail Note: Please provide your e-mail address so we may confirm your registration. Confirmations will be sent one week before the workshop. Workshop Options: (Check all that awly 1 The Basics ($99) 0 April 16 — St. Cloud [] May 3 — St. Paul [_1 June 4 — St. Paul Beyond the Basics ($125) [] May 14 — St. Paul 0 May 29 — St. Cloud Advanced Zoning Applications ($125) �] May 29 — St. Paul June 18 - St. Cloud Site Planning Basics ($125) 0 April 16 - St. Paul Environmental Planning ($125) = April 10 -St. Paul Using the AUAR ($125) 0 July 10 - St. Paul Your Role As Planning Commission Chair ($50) = May 17 - St. Paul Boundary Adjustments for Cities & Townships ($50) 0 May 21 -Mankato' Technology Tools for Local Planning ($50) April 16 - New Ulm May 7 - Bemidji Registration options: 0 Regular Student at (name of institution) Payment Options: Enclosed is check # in the amount of $ (payable to Government Training Service). [] Please bill me at above address. P.O.# (if applicable). (VOTE.AN .S8/AGENCY BIWNG FEE WILL BE ADDED TOME AMOUNTOWED. BlllinQ option not available to students. 0 I would like to pay with the following credit card: VISA Card# Exp. Date: Master Card: Card# Exp. Date: Check here if this is a duplicate copy of your registration form and you have already registered by fax_ Special Needs: (Must be received at least two weeks before the workshop for which you are registering.) = I have a dietary restriction (e.g., vegetarian) as follows: [� I require ancillary aids (i.e. sign language interpreter, large print, Braille materials, etc.). Please contact me at: (Circle one: VOICE or TTY) I require other accommodations. Please contact me at: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION go to www.mngts.org ❖ For registration assistance: Brian Smith (ext. 207) or brismith@mngts orci With program questions: Carol Schoeneck (ext. 205) or cschoeneck@mnats ora GOVERNMENT TRAINING SERVICE 480 Cedar Street, Suite 401 St. Paul, Minnesota 55101-2240 �oice:651-222-7409 Fax: 651-223-5307 VIN.Toll Free: 800-569-6880 TTY: 651-221-9817 Core Program Core Program THE BASICS Approved for 6.0 hours of Continuing Real Estate Education Cre, This workshop provides the nuts and bolts of planning, zoning and subdivision regulation. Participants learr where they fit into the planning and zoning process, and how to maximize their impact. Among the topics tc be addressed are: ✓ 'The history, the process, the results ✓ :Implementation, exercising authority, zoning/subdivision ordinances, amendments, permits, enforce- ment Legal limitations, avoiding litigation, planning, zoning and subdivision laws, 'due process,' conducting c proper public hearing and recording your findings ✓ Who participates in the planning & zoning process; where YOU fit in; how to maximize your impact ✓ Hands-on simulations of actual planning and zoning dilemmas ✓ Hot Issues, answers to your questions AUDIENCE: Designed for those new to land use planning or interested in an extensive review of the fundamentals FACULTY Neil Blanchett, is a member of the Bloomington law firm of Larkin, Hoffman, Daly & Lindgren where his main areas of practice are land use, municipal and real estate development law. Bob Lockyear has extensive hands-on experience in both writing and implementing zoning and subdivision ordinances He is currently Director of Planning and Public Affairs for Washington County, and has worked for city, county and state planning departments in Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota. BEYOND THE BASICS Approved for 6.5 hours of Continuing Real Estate Education Credi Participants learn about using and preparing planning and zoning tools to deal with a wide variety of develop ment issues and obtain an in-depth review of the planning process. Attendees will learn: ✓ A quick review of the history, source and limitations of authority to plan and zone; basic land use and zoning tools and standards; and fundamental legal principles ✓ The process and elements of comprehensvie planning ✓ Innovative ways to guide land use development; from PUDs and performance zoning to design guideline and other'cutting edge' applications ✓ Preparation and use of planning tools to handle various development problems ✓ The planning process in depth—from proper legal notice to development of findings of fact ✓ Legal issues in depth—what is a taking? When are variances justified? How to manage the 60 -day rule? ✓ A brief overview of Minnesota's environmental review procedures---EAW; EIS, and the newer, more flexible AUAR process ✓ Case studies—actual urban, suburban and rural situations! ✓ Answers to your questions on community zoning issues - AUDIENCE: Intended for those who have a solid general knowledge of the planning process (1-2 years on Council, Board or Zoning/Planning Commission) or who have attended 'The Basics' FACULTY Phil Carlson has consulted on planning issues for 25 years with the Minneapolis firm of Dahlgren, Shardlow & Uban, Inc. In addition to writing zoning ordinances for those communities, Mr. Carlson also wrote the design guidelines for Burnsville's Heart of the Gty development, West St. Paul's Robert Street corridor and Mankato's Urban Design Framework. Desyl Peterson has been the Minnetonka City Attorney since 1984. She has been President of the Minnesota City Attorneys Association, the Hennepin County local Government Law Committee and a member of the League of Minnesota Cities YOUR ROLE AS PLANNING COMMISSION CHAIR Have you discovered that the responsibility of chairing the Planning Commission is a bit more challenging than anticipated? Are you looking for practicol tips that can make the difference between results and regrets? This special workshop will focus on what you need to know to be successful in this key leadership position. Participants will learn ways to: ✓ Convey the "Big Picture" and realistic expectations ✓ Set goals and workplan for the Commission ✓ Forge healthy relationships with elected officials and staff ✓ Conduct effective meetings & public hearings ✓ Handle controversial issues ✓ Develop teamwork with other Commission members AUDIENCE: Chairs or Vice Chairs of city, county, township Planning Commissions; also valuable for those chairing boards of adjustment and appeals and other advisory commissions FACULTY John Shardlow is President and Director of Planning for Dahlgren, Shardlow & Uban, Inc., consulting planners and landscape architects. In 25+ years of professional practice, he has assisted nearly 100 cities and counties in preparing and implementing their comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations. He is strongly committed to helping local officials gain the knowledge and skills needed for effective citizen input, well-run public meetings, and informed recommendations or decisions. BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENTS FOR CITIES & TOWNSHIPS: Minimizing Conflict, Maximizing Success Here's your chance to gain an understanding of potential issues and impact of various approaches to boundary adjustments. Learn how cooperative planning can help those involved build common ground and decide what will work best in their particular situation. Teams encouraged. ✓ Boundary adjustment as a component of your overall plan, understanding the context ✓ Reasons to consider boundary adjustments ✓ Issues which need to be addressed—effect on tax base, administration, image, identity, governance, fiscal matters, growth management ✓ The horror stories —what happens if these are not addressed _ ✓ Brief summary of the law, procedures; pclrticipants, plus any updates on recent and potential changes ✓ Options: incorporation, detachments, annexation through order, joint agreement, ordinance ✓ Ways in which communities have successfully addressed the issues (with practical, real life examples of agreements, financial settlements, ordinances) ✓ The process: using mediation or arbitration AUDIENCE - City and township officials and staff, county officials, any other interested individuals FACULTY Dean Johnson is President of Resource Strategies Corporation, a local governmental consulting firm. He has over 16 years experience in the public sector including land use planning, downtown redevelopment, tax increment financing, project management and environment planning/policy analysis. Christine Scofillo served as the Executive Director for the Minnesota Municipal Board from 1995 until its 1999 sunset. She currently is the Executive Director for Municipal Boundary Adjustments for the Office of Strategic and Long Range Planning, Minnesota Planning. Special Focus Program r' Special Focus Program Special Focus Program F Special N Customized � Option A TECHNOLOGY TOOLS FOR LOCAL PLANNING Ceam how to take advantage of easy-to-use GIS tools and local area resource da.*a to improve your local _ planning efforts. New applications developed by Minnesota Planning can help address the broad spectrum of environmental and sustainable planning issues in your county, township or community—from the 'agriculture versus residential' quandari tc urban sprawl to lakeshore development. Converting the wealth of available data into visual representations makes it much easier for local decisionmakers to understand complex spatial relationships and how they would be affected by various land use decisions. Each participant will receive a "planning kit" for developing scenarios and preparing plans that address local goals. Topics include: ✓ Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) — The Basics ✓ Environmental, resource, social and economic data — What's Available? ✓ New tools available to access, interpret and supplement this data; how to use them ✓ New tools for analyzing various state datasets in modeling scenarios for planning purposes; how to use them to assess impact of choices, set priorities and weigh alternatives based on local conditions and needs ✓ H ow to answer key planning questions such as: Where are our resource assets and planning challenges? What areas are best suited for a particular use? What land could be impacted by o proposed policy? AUDIENCE: Especially for staff in non -metro counties, cities, townships, regional development commissions as well as interested decision -makers FACULTY Jeffrey Bloomquist is a Senior Project Consultant with Minnesota Planning. He has been working directly with local communities for the past four years in various planning environments using geographic information and technical models. He holds a B.A. in Urban & Regional Studies/Geography from the University of Minnesota -Duluth and a Masters in Resource Analysis from St. Marys University. Aaron Buffington, Senior Project Consultant with Minnesota Planning, has been working with GIS in the planning field since 1996. He has worked as a planner at city, regional and state levels. He has a B.A. in Geography from UMD and also holds an M.A. in Resource Analysis from St. Marys University. IN-HOUSE PROGRAMS Contact Carol Schoeneck at 657-222-7409 x205 cschoeneck@mngts.org GTS can tailor any of the workshops in this catalog to meet the current needs of your community. You choose the date and location; we provide the faculty and materials! Benefits of this customized approach to land use training include: ✓ You identify the topics to be addressed by facul"nsuring that current key community issues are covered. ✓ A diverse group from your community (or group of communities) can attend at afar lower cost than sending them to open enrollment workshops ✓ You are guaranteed a date and time convenient to the participants Additional workshops are available on a wide range of land use planning topics = from Shoreland Manage- mentto Building and Sustaining Community Character. ADVANCED ZONING APPLICATIONS Approved for 5.0 hours of Continuing Real Estate Education Credit Core Program This workshop supplements other land use planning programming and offers a more in-depth exploration of land use issues. Participants obtain a more comprehensive understanding of such issues as: ✓ How to break out of the "Misuse of Variances Syndrome" ✓ Understanding proper use, and limitations to the use, of conditional use permits ✓ Establishing and utilizing a planned use development ordinance that provides flexibility and enhanced control ✓ Understanding the benefits provided by Performance Zoning ✓ How to approach the regulation of signs ✓ How to incorporate Urban Design standards into community zoning ordinance ✓ Update and discussion of recent court cases and their implications ✓ Regulate challenging uses when faced with Federal pre-emption or constitutional limitations - telecommu- nication facilities, adult uses ✓ Incorporating natural resources into your planning process AUDIENCE: Designed for those who have a thorough knowledge of land use issues (3+ years of experience) or who have attended both "The Basics" and `Beyond the Basics." It is particularly valuable for staff. FACULTY John Shardlow is President and Director of Planning for Dahlgren, Sbardlow & Uban, Inc., consulting planners and landscape architects. In 25+ years of professional practice, he has assisted nearly 100 cities and counties in preparing and implementing their comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations. Matt Brokl, a partner at the law firm of Campbell Knutson, is the City Attorney for the cities of Burnsville, Big Lake, Monticello and Hampton. Ilk ilk Ilk :�F. •' • 03 NOWT-01my �ec �!_7s 3-'°v Focus L'�F.�;S✓r...""S 1i•1+ i + - • �A$ • e • • • Many staff planners and appointed citizen planners are called upon to review site plans and render opinions about their adequacy and consistency with local codes and ordinances. In many cases, these planners have little if any design background and lack the knowledge and skills to effectively conduct this important work. This course is designed to help close that gap! Participants will: - ✓ Learn the fundamentals of site analysis and site planning through simplified, illustrative graphics ✓ Apply these basic elements in an easy to follow, step-by-step review of a number of different projects ✓ Be guided through a model checklist for subdivision and site plan review ✓ Become familiar with the effects that ordinances and regulations have on the site planning process and gain insight into some of the unintended results ✓ Take away several practical tools for use long after the course is over. AUDIENCE: Especially for non -design professionals and citizen planners; open to anyone called upon to review site plans FACULTY C;;)a John Shardlow is President and Director of Planning for Dahlgren, Shardlow & Uban, Inc., consultingplanners and landscape architects. In 25+ years of professional practice, he has assisted nearly 100 cities and couties in preparing and implementing their comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations. ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING: Special Choosing the Best Approach for Your community! Focus r-77 The Minnesota Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) requires government officials and private developers to analyze the potential environmental impocts of proposed actions and alternatives in order to make informed decisions on whether and how to proceed. Which option — an EIS, EAW, or AUAR — makes the most sense for your community? What are the procedures involved? How do you link the findings back to your zoning ordinances and other community planning efforts? Through presentations and hands-on exercises, this program will provide excellent information on MEPA requirements and state rules as well as the decision- making tools needed for implementation. Topics include: ✓ State and federal requirements — an overview ✓ Recent court rulings affecting MEPA ✓ The Environmental Impact Statement, the Environmental Assessment Worksheet, the Alternative Urban Areawide Review — purpose, what's involved, pros and cons, Minnesota examples of each approach ✓ The process (participants use the EAW to assess the impact of a hypothetical project) ✓ Keys to successful implementation — from document preparation and review to mitigation & monitoring ✓ Special bonus: Free resource CD-ROM to all participants! AUDIENCE: Elected officials, senior government staff, professionals involved in making decisions that could affect the environment or providing information for those decisions FACULTY: Ken Nimmer is owner of IMPACT Planning, a community and environmental planning firm specializing in environmental assessments, environmental baseline surveys, land transfer and development projects, and local compre- hensive plans. He is a Registered Environmental Manager with 12 years experience administering community, and environmental planning programs. Wafter Rockenstein, a partner with Faegre & Benson, focuses his law practice on environmental reviews, environmental permitting. Recent projects include the Minnesota Orchestra's proposed amphitheater in Brooklyn Park, Best Buy's Corporate headquarters in Richfield, and the expansion of Minneapolis -St. Paul International Airport. Jon Larsen has been Principal Planner for the Environmental Review Program of the Environmental Quality Board since 1995. Previous positions included Director of Research for the Institute of Environmental Assessment and for the Minnesota Institute of Public Health. Ken Pekarek - a registered Landscape Architect with over 35 years experience in Geographic Information Systems, coordinates software development and training for Minnesota Planning's EPPL7 system. Hannah Dunevitz - a Regional Plant Ecologist who has worked for Minnesota DNR for 17 years, currently provides ecological assistance to communities in central Minnesota. FocusSpecial USING THE AUAR: Planning for Environmental Impacts 'Y Program This workshop is designed for those interested in a more in-depth focus on the Alternative Urban Areawide y Review (AUAR), a discretionary, alternative process used to accomplish environmental review for an entire development zone or area under certain circumstances. The AUAR can be a convenient and economical approach for local governments seeking to engage in environmental review of development projects already proposed, or wishing to influence development trends of prospective projects. Topics include: ✓ How AUAR compares to the EAW, EIS ✓ The process, key components, updates ✓ Pros and cons; when to choose the AUAR method ✓ Case Study — City of Roseville ✓ Relationship to comprehensive planning ✓ Special bonus: Free resource CD-ROM to all ✓ Legal and financial considerations participants! AUDIENCE: Elected officials, senior government staff, professionals involved in making decisions that could affect the environment or providing information for those decisions FACULTY: Ken Nimmer, Wafter Rockenstein, Jon Larsen and Ken Pekarek - SEE DESCRIPTIONS ABOVE Dennis Welsch - Roseville Community Development Director, has held similar positions in both Greater Minnesota and metro cities, working extensively on Brownfield and redevelopment issues as well as efforts to retain competitive jobs & Jy, quality of life in the first ring suburbs. DATE: March 20, 2003 TO: Anne Hurlburt, Community Development Direc or FROM: Tracy Jones, HRA Specialist, through— es, Housing Program Manager SUBJECT: Metropolitan Council's, "Guidelines for Priority Funding for Housing Performance" BACKGROUND As you may recall, to comply with the Livable Communities Act of 1995, the Metropolitan Council conducts an annual housing survey. Every city within the Metropolitan Council's jurisdiction is requested to complete this survey and the results are used to rank the annual housing performance of each community. The Metropolitan Council uses these scores in the evaluation and ranking of any discretionary funding request or application. Last year, the City of Plymouth received a score of 64 out of 100 possible points. Plymouth was ranked 32"d out of 185 cities included in the survey. The Metropolitan Council recently adopted revised "Guidelines for Priority Funding for Housing Performance". The revised guidelines will be used to evaluate the Council's annual housing performance survey that will be distributed in late spring, and from which, new housing performance scores will be determined this summer. DISCUSSION The major revisions to the City and Township portion of the guidelines were to the point ranges awarded in the individual sections. Specifically, revisions to the points ranges awarded in Section 3, Section 5, Section 8 and Section 9 were made. A summary of the revisions contained in these sections as well as the opinion of staff on how these revisions will impact Plymouth's ranking follows: Section 3 - Percent of housing stock that is not single family detached units In this section, municipalities are ranked according to the multi -family percentage of their housing stock. The point range for this section increased from 0-6 to 0-8. It is the opinion of staff that this revision will positively impact Plymouth's score, since Plymouth scored a 5 in this section last year (based on 2000 and 2001 figures) and the trend in new housing development continues to be geared toward multi -family. Section 5 - Housing for special needs In this section, municipalities are awarded points for various types of special needs housing located within their jurisdiction. The point range for this section decreased from 0-4 to 0-3. It is the opinion of staff that this revision will neither positively or negatively impact Plymouth's score, since Plymouth scored a 3 in this section last year and the composition of the special needs housing units has not changed. Section 8 - Initiatives regarding housing preservation and rehabilitation In this section, municipalities are ranked on what if any housing preservation, home improvement and/or rehabilitation programs are available to residents to keep their housing stock in sound condition. The point range for this section increased from 0-12 to 0-15. It is the opinion of staff that this revision will positively impact Plymouth's score, since Plymouth scored an 8 in this section last year and continues to administer an active housing rehabilitation program. Also, staff will be more aggressive in identifying other housing programs that are being offered in Plymouth. Section 9 - Density of residential development In this section, municipalities are ranked according to the net density of new sewered housing, both attached and detached, and/or unsewered housing for which a building permit was issued by the municipality in the two previous calendar years. The point ranges for this section have been revised as follows: • The point range for the average net density of attached sewered housing units increased from 1-5 to 1-6. • The point range for the average net density of detached sewered housing units increased from 1-5 to 1-6. • Anew sub -category was added with points ranging from 1-12 that measures the average net density of unsewered housing units. It is the opinion of staff that this revision will neither positively or negatively impact Plymouth's score, since Plymouth scored in the middle of the point range for both attached and detached sewered housing units (4 and 2 respectively) last year and the average net densities are not expected to change significantly this year. :3I. N ATTACHMENTS 1. Metropolitan Council's, "Guidelines for Priority Funding for Housing Performance", January 2003 RC BE ESTI ROAD CLOSURE NOTICE CITY. OF PLYMOUTH } Z 0 ENGINEERING DIVISION n 763-509-5500 �G J� } Z a c AD CLOSURE GINS APRIL 4, 2003 MATED OPENING ( MAY 30, 2003) W E S s s } Z 0 w a - - Close -44 4o East nd WeS+ Bound Traf Open +o West Bound Traffic Only M!► - Open -Eo East and West Bound Tropic DATE: March 27, 2003 TO: Mayor & City Council Members, City Manager Dwight D. Johnson, Asst. City Manager Laurie Ahrens, Department Directors, Property Management Coordinator Mark Jones THROUG Chief of Police Craig C. Gerdes FROM: Lt. Dan Plekkenpol, Police Department Building Expansion Study Committee Chair SUBJECT: TOURS OF OTHER POLICE FACILITIES The Police Department has put together a committee to compile information with regards to the space needs. As part of this study, we have decided to tour various newer police buildings in the metro area to get ideas of what works and what does not and ensure we do not forget any items. So far we have scheduled two such tours. If any of you have an interest in attending these tours, please let me know by e-mail or phone (5187) so that we can make sure and make arrangements for the vehicles needed. Thank you for your interest. The tours scheduled so far are: April 2nd (Wednesday), 2:00 p.m. — Maple Grove Police Department (We will be meeting at the police department and plan on leaving approximately 1:30 p.m.) April 14th (Monday), 2:00 p.m. — St. Louis Park Police Department (We will again be meeting at the police department and plan on leaving approximately 1:30 p.m.) Arrangements are being made for a couple more tours and we will notify you when those arrangements are made. Thank you again for your interest. yL�- 9. Density of residential development The average net density of new (or re -use) sewered housing for which a building permit was issued in the municipality in the two previous calendar years multiplied by the total number of such units in those two years are compared among all communities. Sewered communities are ranked highest to lowest, unsewered communities are ranked lowest to highest. Points will only be given to sewered communities with an overall density of three units per acre or greater and only to unsewered communities for which the 1998 local comprehensive plan update has been put into effect. Sewered Communities 1 to 6 points a. The average net density for attached housing units, i.e., units per acre multiplied by the number of such units permitted in the last two calendar years. 1 to 6 points b. The average net density for detached housing units (including detached townhomes and manufactured homes), i.e., units per acre multiplied by the number of such units permitted in the last two calendar years. Unsewered Communities 11 1 to 12 points The average net density of residential development multiplied by the number of all units permitted in the last two calendar years 0 or 6 points 10. In the previous two calendar years, the municipality has acquired land to be held specifically for the development of affordable or senior housing (exclusively 55+), or has approved (permits may be drawn at any time) the development or local financial participation in a proposed development of new affordable or senior (exclusively 55+) housing, or the involvement of the municipality in the preservation and reinvestment in such housing — ownership or rental — which has not as yet been undertaken for reasons beyond the municipality's control. Points will be awarded according to the number of units involved in the proposal as follows: 2 points — less than 20 units or land acquisition for future housing 4 points — 20 to 39 units 6 points — 40 or more units 9 cycle housing, or since 1996, has taken the initiative to revise its land use regulation and official controls to such a degree that these revisions can be shown to be permitting greater density and more frequent opportunity for reduced development costs than existed before 1996. Examples of these initiatives in the use of official controls include but are not limited to the following: • The use of a density bonus system, inclusionary housing requirements or some other innovative zoning approach • The use of variances, rezoning, special use or conditional permits or similar variations from the standards set forth in the community's zoning ordinance for the purpose of facilitating a specific affordable housing development. • A local initiative undertaken to revise local design requirements for public improvement that may reduce the cost of public services to residential properties. • Modifications in public services standards or requirements that might include streets, curbs, gutter, sewer and water hookups, street lighting and other required public improvements in order to reduce development costs to increase affordability in a new residential development. • A reduction of such standards as the required street right-of-way, or surfacing width or depth design for residential street, oethe size of sewer or water service lines to new housing. Each local initiative is worth 3 points. No more than 6 points may be applicable to any one affordable or life -cycle housing development or preservation activity aided by these local regulative measures. 0 to 15 points 8. Initiatives regarding housing preservation and rehabilitation The municipality has in place and has in the previous two calendar years used and promoted locally -initiated or administered (city or county) housing preservation, home improvement and/or rehabilitation programs, or other tools available to its residents to keep their housing stock in sound condition. Examples of these initiatives include but are not limited to the following: • A housing maintenance code and enforcement program for rental housing • A housing maintenance code and enforcement program for owner - occupied housing • A housing rehabilitation loan or grant program for rental housing • A housing rehabilitation loan or grant program for owner -occupied housing • A home improvement loan or grant program • A home improvement resource center ' • A local tool -sharing center or program Each local initiative is worth 3 points. //0_ • A shelter which is publicly subsidized and/or operated by a non-profit group to provide temporary housing for homeless persons and families, battered women or those not otherwise able to secure private housing • Housing for individuals and families who are homeless, but with a transitional stay of six to 24 months, and the assistance of advocates, can work towards housing stability and self-sufficiency to obtain permanent housing. Each instance of such housing is worth 1 point. Local Initiatives to Facilitate Affordable Workforce Housing Development or Preservation 0 to 15 points 6. Fiscal Tools and Initiatives The municipality has in place adopted local policy in its comprehensive plan or local housing plan that allows and encourages the use of a local fiscal tool or initiative and has used such a local fiscal tool to assist affordable workforce or life -cycle housing development or preservation. 0 to 15 points Examples of such fiscal tools include but are not limited to the following: • Tax increment financing • Housing revenue bonds • General obligation bonds • A local property tax levy • Local tax abatement • Local fee waivers or reductions • Credit enhancements • Taxable revenue bonds • Land write-down or sale • Collaboration and participation with a community land trust or other non-profit organization to preserve long-term affordability The use of federal or state dollars is only applicable if such dollars may be used for activities other than the development or preservation of affordable and life -cycle housing but the municipality has chosen -by policy to use them for affordable housing development or preservation. (i.e., CDBG dollars used for housing development or preservation) Each local fiscal tool or initiative is worth 3 points. 7. Initiatives regarding local regulation and development requirements The municipality has in the previous two calendar years allowed the reduction, adjustment or elimination of a local official control, or development or local code requirement as a cost avoidance or reduction measure in order to facilitate the development or preservation of affordable workforce or life -cycle housing, OR has in place in its policies and official controls a commitment to make such reductions, adjustments or eliminations of requirements when they are requested by a developer in order to facilitate the development or preservation of affordable or life- -, 7 Affordability and Diversification 0 to 8 points 1. Municipalities are ranked according to the percent of their owner -occupied housing (homesteads) with an assessed valuation equal to or lower than an amount affordable to households at 80 percent of area median income, and their total number of mobile homes. 0 to 8 points 2. Municipalities are ranked according to the percent of their total housing stock that is comprised of rental units affordable to households of low- and moderate -income (50 percent of area median income or less). This includes all federally subsidized rental units — public housing, Section 8 housing, units subsidized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, units developed with the use of low-income housing tax credits, units developed with the assistance of MHFA, the LCA Fund or the assistance of a local fiscal tool or housing finance initiative. 0 to 8 points 3. Municipalities are ranked according to the percent of their housing stock that is comprised of units that are not single family detabhed units developed in the typical detached housing site plan approach. These units may include twinhomes, quads, apartments, townhomes, condominiums, detached fownhomes, mobile homes, and units developed with a zero -lot line. 0 to 10 points 4. Municipalities are ranked according to the percent of net units added to their housing stock that are affordable — both ownership and rental since the Council began monitoring in 1996. These "new" units may include units that have been "preserved" as affordable for a definitive period of time because of public or private re -investment to retain their affordability. ("Net units" means that affordable habitable units, not including units on land with a property tax classification of 4C, removed as the result of a city initiative will be subtracted from the total new affordable units.) 0 to 3 points 5. Housing for special needs Municipalities are awarded up to three points for the following types of special housing within their jurisdiction: • Housing for which federal, state, county or local funds or those of a non-profit organization have been used to purchase and operate residential units or provide licensed housing that is not for the purposes of incarceration, but as a transitional placement of adult offenders or adjudicated delinquents • A publicly subsidized or non-profit group home licensed by the Department of Health or Department of Human Services which provides temporary or permanent housing for the physically handicapped, mentally ill, developmentally disabled or chemically dependent 3�16 the housing needs of low- and moderate -income individuals and households, or those with special housing needs in the county, or advance the production or preservation of such housing. • Initiatives by the county to create/expand non-profit capacity or foster local intergovernmental collaborations to create and preserve affordable housing for low and moderate -income persons. Each policy, activity, program, resource or other initiative is worth 5 points, not to exceed 70 points. 0 to 10 points 3. The total per capita expenditure of funds by the county or its authorized agent(s) on homelessness as identified in the previous year's budget will be assigned points based upon the following: 10 points - $6 or more per capita 8 points — $4.00 to $5.99 per capita 6 points — $2.00 to $3.99 per capita 4 points — $1.00 to $1.99 per capita 2 points — less than $1.00 per capita 0 to 10 points 4. The total per capita commitment (i.e. per capita for only thoke communities with a tax levy to fund the county housing authorities, and/or a participation agreement with the county) of county -originated funds (taxes, reserve funds, fees, land sales, etc., not funds passed through from other levels of governments) to affordable housing development or preservation and/or tenant based rental assistance, as identified in the county's previous fiscal year's budget will be assigned points based upon the following: 10 points - $ 10.00 or more 8 points - $ 8.00 to $9.99 6 points - $ 6.00 to $7.99 4 points - $ 4.00 to $5.99 2 points - $ 2.00 to $3.99 1 point - less than $1.99 0 points - $ 0 5 J` Use of resources, authority, programs and initiatives for affordable workforce and life- cycle housing 1. The county or its housing agency or authority owns and is responsible for the management of affordable housing units. 0 or 5 points a. which are public housing units funded under the Office of Public and Indian Housing at the U.S. Department of HUD 0 or 5 points b. and/or housing units not included in (a). 0 to 70 points 2. The county, its housing agency or authority, the Metro HRA or a non- public agent of the county (which may include a designated non-profit), administers programs and/or resources to address affordable housing assistance, development and preservation needs in the county for cities and townships that do not manage their own such programs or resources to address these housing needs. Examples of programs or resources to address these needs include, but are not limited. to, the following: • Tenant -based rental assistance (Section 8 existing housing programs — vouchers or certificates administered by the county or its agent) • Development of county housing TIF district to assist affordable housing development or preservation • The use of housing revenue bonds to support affordable housing production, homebuyer assistance, or housing preservation efforts • Land acquisition assistance program for affordable housing providers (e.g. Habitat for Humanity) And/or locally -administered activities such as: • First-time homebuyer mortgage assistance program • Down payment and/or closing cost assistance program • Homeowner rehabilitation or home improvement grants or loan program • Rental property rehabilitation or renovation program • Funding for new affordable ownership or rental housing construction (e.g. federal low-income housing tax credits, HOME dollars etc.) • Low-income housing rehabilitation loan or grant program funded by use of federal CDBG or HOME funds • Housing counseling services (e.g. renter or first-time homebuyer education efforts) And/or other innovative efforts or initiatives such as: • A county -funded program to aid affordable housing development or preservation through the provision of gap financing assistance. • Activities undertaken by the county or its authorized agent(s)that require county involvement, partnership, support, or resources and address 4 �D Introduction The Metropolitan Council's Regional Blueprint includes policy that supports, encourages and promotes the broadened opportunity for affordable and life -cycle housing throughout the region. As one of the actions it will take to support such housing opportunities, the Blueprint says the _Council will "give priority for regional infrastructure investments or expenditures of public dollars to communities that have implemented plans to provide their share of the region's low - and moderate -income and life -cycle housing opportunities." The following criteria and their relative weight will be used to annually determine a score — 0 to 100 points — and rank for cities and counties in the region to be used in the evaluation and prioritization of applications for funding by the Council. County scores will be used in the evaluation of county applications for funding; city scores will be used for city applications. Joint applications for discretionary funding will be weighted pursuant to the applicable combination of counties, cities, or both counties and cities. Examples of current funding decisions that will be affected include but not be limited to those for community development — the LCA Fund and Smart Growth initiatives, transportation — TEA -21, the environment — MetroEnvironment Partnership grants, and other investments and programs such as those for parks and open space. The amount of emphasis or weight given to the housing performance score or rank in the evaluation of applications for various funding programs will be at the discretion of the Metropolitan Council at the time it solicits applications for any of these discretionary funding activities. Any changes to the performance criteria themselves will be made -only after the Council follows its adopted policy and practices for changing policy documents. 5 3 ' lneido'Fmnt Gnrr1 .. .. .. .. .. s Metropolitan Council' Members - t • :Peter: Bell; Chair Saunclra Spigrier, Distr�ct�l p ->-' .Natalie'Haas Steffen; District 9 Y JoddpauLsori; District 2 °, Jim Nielson, District 10 ' Mary' Hill Smith, District 3 • . ` ` Roger `Williams, District 1 Julius. C. Smith, District 4 Marc Hugunin, District .12 Phil Riveness, District 5 Daniel Galles, -District 13 Vacant, District 6 Lee Pao Xiong;.District 14 George .Garnett, ' District 7 ; .Tom Egan, District 15 = .Carol A. Kummer,• District 8..- ` John Conzenlius,-Distnct 16 't The mission of the Metropolitan Council is to improve regional competitiveness in the global economy so the Minneapolis -Saint Paul metropolitan region is one of the best place.:to live, work, raise a family and do•business. •: The Metropolitan Council is the• regional planning organization for the seven -Bounty Twin Cities area. The Council 'advocates Smart Growth "for vital communities and a competitive region: It the regional..bus.system, collects aad.treatswastewater,manages regional water resources,.: "plans regional parks :and' administers funds• that provide housing opportunitiesfo r' Tow and, moderate=income .individuals and families: The.Council is appointed by •and serves at the ' pleasure of the Minnesota.Govertior: The graphic preparation and printing- of this publication cost $162.00. for a total of 300 copies: ' z Publication # 78-03-006. Printed.on recycled paper. with at.least 20%o post -consumer waste. . On request, this publication will..be made available in alternative formats to. people with disabilities. Call the: Metropolitan Council Data Center at 651 602 -1140 -or TTY 651:291-0904.:.: General phone 651602-1000 Regional Data Center 6516024 14.0 . TTY 651291-0904 Metro4o Zine .651602-1888 E-mail data.center@metc.state.mn.us Internet site www.metrocouncil.org Z) 0 0 D 0 (D U) -v 77 (D U) r 77 i LL CD -D (D O n (D �i m CD M. (o �D (D cu n n m no CL -0 0 0 3 Q n (D C-) (D (D r r V .� ° 0 Q 7K W F7O 3 o NN 09 NO Cnr-pv C�-i+ g T W (D k °o_ Z � 0 `D n :3� n' Q Z ° vui•rlt- % ai c� N o nai ^on�-a 92 ��^37o OQ r O a -� �p mai 0 ZT 0 �Dn�(DN U" zr= c��.(D o D x -03D< -7 v O (D Z C: Lo �' 3 n, L-,eOzLO Di C: ^ ��V ° W� A7 (� � r° (Dn Q cn M G) (D Q c = N (n (n 7C 7C + r N O (D0vN3�N0 o QOQ r � �N Cf) n 3 - `-D n o 3(/) (D (D �. 0-0) -0 (D .0 o n' v o�ncn np 0 �� connvr Qo0. #a a�nnvr Qoo-:;z-N o � (D CO �(D �(nD 303 7 O :. 70 7L c c N c Q � 30 � r NO N N r O0 N o X QW N n v' .. 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Q a � r r V .� ° 0 Q 7K W 3 o Z � Q �rw r (1)r-Ua '" NI -7 v O (D (D (D n i N n3n�, g°- N o o n� �- o �. 0-0) -0 (D .0 c n 0-T -1-r --s CCD O 0) � (D RI a) (n 70 N r NO 0 o X QW N n v' OD 70 CL n Z �. chp<� N Q n �_ (D ow C (D N (D ((DIA i �1 A •�j 9 -.-- CITY OF PLYMOU?FF March 21, 2003 Marilyn McAlpine 10635-440i Avenue North, Unit C Plymouth, MN 55442 Subject: Plymouth Sign Regulations/ Potential Sign Violations Dear Ms. McAlpine: Thank you for your March 13, 2003 letter regarding existing signs that may have been installed in violation of the sign regulations. A permit is required prior to installation of advertising signs—and the regulations do not allow such signs to be placed within the public right-of-way. This matter has been referred to Warren Kulesa, Housing Inspector, to determine whether or not any sign violations exist on the properties you identified. If violations exist, Mr. Kulesa will follow up with the businesses for removal of the signs. Please contact Warren Kulesa, Housing Inspector, upon receipt of this letter. Mr. Kulesa's direct phone number is (763) 509-5445. Sincerely, Shawn B. Drill, AICP Senior Planner Enclosure Copy: Warren Kulesa, Housing Inspector Anne Hurlburt, Community Development Director V," Sheila Langer, Office Support Representative L4 PLYMOUTH A Beautiful Place?o Live 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD - PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 - TELEPHONE (763) 509-5000 www.ci.Plymouth. mn. us An Equol Opportunity Employer Iti . - more - Recycled Paper STATE OF MINNESOTA FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT County Road 101/2 For more information, contact Paul Backer, Hennepin County project engineer, at 763-745-7569 or 612-282-1714. To view a map of the construction zone, visit the Hennepin County Internet page: www.co.hennenin.mn.us Under "Services" in the left-hand column, select "Roads -closures and construction." -30- This 30 - This news release and other fact sheets and news tips are available on the Hennepin County Public Affairs homepage -- www.co.hennepin.nm.us/PA/paindex.htm '55, CITY OF PUMOUTR March 21, 2003 Marilyn McAlpine 10635-44`x' Avenue North, Unit C Plymouth, MN 55442 Subject: Plymouth Sign Regulations/ Potential Sign Violations Dear Ms. McAlpine: Thank you for your March 13, 2003 letter regarding existing signs that may have been installed in violation of the sign regulations. A permit is required prior to installation of advertising signs—and the regulations do not allow such signs to be placed within the public right-of-way. This matter has been referred to Warren Kulesa, Housing Inspector, to determine whether or not any sign violations exist on the properties you identified. If violations exist, Mr. Kulesa will follow up with the businesses for removal of the signs. Please contact Warren Kulesa, Housing Inspector, upon receipt of this letter. Mr. Kulesa's direct phone number is (763) 509-5445. Sincerely, Shawn B. Drill, AICP Senior Planner Enclosure Copy: Warren Kulesa, Housing Inspector Anne Hurlburt, Community Development Director t/ Sheila Langer, Office Support Representative L� PLYMOUTH A BcautifulPlace % Live 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD - PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 - TELEPHONE (763) 509-5000 www.ci.Plymouth.mn.us Ir r � VI ; .. N �R 1 7 Z�J CO , Cit", of Plymouth Marilyn \[cA.pine 1063 44 rh A, -:nue \orth Unit C Plymouth Ni,: 55442 ,,--I is there a sign ordinance regarding the signs gas stations put on their light posts out by the curb? It seems veil' trashey in our-neiahborhood to gee these huge sips everywhere. Not only does it clutter our streets distracting drivers, but the tobacco messages promote a very expensive and unhealthy problem in our s,ciety. The Holiday stations are particularly posting these signs. The station on 49th just «vest of Highway 169 has had such a sign for some time and now the station on Rockford Road and Nathan Lane has also. Thank you for your attention. Sincereh'. Marih-n -1P ine ral 0 U 0. Q C 0. > a• N g d 2 10 0. `� ❑ O A aXi v U .. d £ w A M p U N y y A A u w �_ F. CL d � M � C d L d Q y N 00 N ai .fl d a+ N ca 0 a E ° U y bD O a� 8 to c N w p c � o •o � H O x � y d � O to 0. U O � � E 0 F c4 oa x c� ral STATE OF MINNESOTA FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT KEVIN S. BURKE CHIEF JUDGE HENNEPIN COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA 5S487-0422 16121 348-4389 FAX 16121 348-5374 kevin.burke@co.hennepin.mn.us March 24, 2003 Mayor Judy Johnson City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447-1482 Dear Mayor Johnson: I have received your letter regarding the possible closing one or more suburban courthouses. I suspect that the finances of our court are very much like those of many municipalities that are struggling to deal with the state of the State of Minnesota's economy. We face a serious crisis on funding the judiciary. Governor Pawlenty has recommended a 10% cut to the trial court budget. In addition, the court must cover . escalating health care costs. The Governor's proposed cut, therefore, is much greater than it might seem. While I disagree with the Governor's recommendation, all of us must recognize there is a very real fiscal crisis in this state. To be prudent stewards of the public's dollars, we must explore alternatives to the way we do business. As part of that process, our court leadership has looked at several options. One option is to close a suburban location. In my mind, the potential savings of $350,000 does not justify going any further than simply looking at closing a facility and concluding that closing a facility is an undesirable option. So that is the good news. The bad news is that closing a suburban facility could happen. The Governor has recommended a 15% cut to the public defender budget. If the legislature follows the Governor's recommendation, the cut will have a dramatic and serious effect on the ability of this judicial district to provide constitutionally mandated legal services to indigent people. The Hennepin County Board is talking about reducing the number of county employees. That decision inevitably will have a serious impact on the corrections department. The Governor has recommended a 10% cut to Legal Aid. If that occurs, there will be further pressure on the court's Self Help Center. The combination of public defender cuts, court cuts, sheriff s department cuts, corrections cuts and Legal Aid cuts may force us to consider closing a facility. If that happens, the court certainly will consult with many more people than when facilities closing was only one of many brainstorming ideas. Neither I nor other judges on this bench wants to close facilities. We also do not want to eliminate law clerks (which we have done already). We are not in favor of reductions in the Domestic Abuse Service Center, cutting back the Guardian Ad Litem Program or reducing jury compensation by 30%. Although I am sure the argument is well- intentioned, anyone who suggests that suburban facilities should be sacrosanct should recognize that such a position in effect means that there will be fewer people in the Domestic Abuse Service Center helping battered victims, fewer people in Juvenile Court processing offenses for juveniles, fewer employees in Family Court assisting with prompt and efficient resolution of divorces, and fewer employees in the Self Help Center helping citizens who otherwise have no access to justice. Our court is trying to provide a balanced approach to dealing with this difficult budgetary problem. The fiscal crisis facing this county's justice system is real. No one should be under any illusion that reducing the budgets of the court, public defender, Legal Aid and criminal justice agencies will not have a real impact. I urge your municipality not to simply pass a resolution condemning a planning option that I do not support, but to also pass a resolution urging the Minnesota Legislature and particularly the Hennepin County delegation to work hard to ensure that there is appropriate funding for the system of justice. Courts are a core function of government. In my opinion, for destructive things in the system of justice not to happen, the justice system's fiscal crisis must be solved by a combination of new revenue generated by increased user fees and modest cuts. Community leaders, mayors and city council members need to work hard to convince legislators that funding justice is important for this community's well being. Even if my suggestion of increased user fees and more modest cuts is implemented, we all need to recognize that real and painful changes may have to occur. Now is the time for all the leaders in this county to work together to minimize the negative effects of the times in which we live. My hope is that we can work together to solve this district's crisis in justice. Sincerely, vin S. Burke Dear Neighbor: Wayzata Youth Hockey Association and Providence Academy are working in cooperation with the City of Plymouth to explore the possibility of building an additional ice sheet at the Plymouth Ice Center. We are soliciting input from City of Plymouth interest groups including individual residents and neighborhoods on this project. Representatives of Wayzata Youth Hockey and the Providence Academy will host a meeting on Thursday, April 101h at the Plymouth Ice Center for the purpose of obtaining your input on this project. Refreshments will be served at 7:00pm with the meeting commencing at 7:30pm in the center ice room. Sincerely Greg Gibson President Wayzata Youth Hockey Association 4300 Niagara Lane North Plymouth MN 55446 763-557-0854 s/. Hennepin. Hennepin County Taxpayer Services Department A-600 Hennepin County Government Center Minneapolis, Minnesota 55487-0060 March 26, 2003 City of Plymouth Dwight D Johnson, Manager 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 RE: Tax Increment Finance Dear Dwight D Johnson: I am writing to inform you of a printing error on the 2003 property tax statements that have just been mailed. Parcels that are in a Tax Increment Finance District may have an incorrect amount shown on Line 11C. Due to an error in the print program, the amount shown DOES NOT reflect the amount of money to be distributed to the city for that district. In some cases the amount shown is incorrect and in most cases it will show zeros in the 2003 column. The total amount of taxes due is correct; the amounts that will be settled to each city is correct and the amount shown on our PINS tax system (screen 101) is correct. Therefore, we have decided NOT to automatically send duplicate tax statements as it would be more confusing than helpful to most taxpayers. However, we will gladly mail a new statement to anyone that requests one. If you receive any calls concerning the discrepancy, please assure them that the actual settlement distribution to the city will be correct as this was not a calculation problem but a print program issue. I apologize that this happened and if you or a taxpayer have any questions, please call Gloria Roybal at 612-348-3255 or myself at 612-348-5100. Si ncerely, U Marie Kunze, Manager Property Tax Division An Equal Opportunity Employer Recycled Paper Power line upgrade planned Great River Energy, Wright -Hennepin Cooperative Electric's power supplier, has filed an application for a Certificate of Need with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to upgrade and expand its existing electric transmission system in central Plymouth and Maple Grove. A Certificate of Need is a state permit confirming that construc- tion of an energy facility is in the public interest, and approval of the Certificate of Need would enable Great River Energy to acquire ease- ments for construction and operation of the line. Although the specific location for the facility is not at issue as part of this initial process, Great River Energy has developed possible routes for the line. The PUC will hold additional public hearings and meetings about the project. After the Certificate of Need is approved, Great River Energy is required to receive a route permit for the project from the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board (MEQB). Only routes for the line, not the line's need, are considered during the MEQB siting process. The shaded area on the map represents the corridor where a 115 kV transmission line could be located. The red line represents Great River Energy's existing 69 kV transmission line. Although no exact route for the new line has been selected, information about route analysis will be available at an informational meeting: Wednesday, April 2 6 P.M. to 8 p.m. (7 p.m. presentation) Maple Grove Community Center 12951 Weaver Lake Road North Maple Grove, MN 763-494-6500 The PUC will hold its first public hearing on Great River Energy's Certificate of Need application on Tuesday, May 20, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Plymouth Radisson Hotel, 3131 Campus Drive, Plymouth. S Great River Energy, of Elk River, is the state's second largest electric utility. As a generation and transmission cooperative, the organization provides energy to 28 distribution co-ops. For information about Great River Energy, this project or to view a copy of the Certificate of Need applica- tion, visit. • www.GreatRiverEnergycom. Or contact us, at PlyMGline@grenergycom or 763-2412200. CD PW ,a a-La. PAW Lft LA. LMN LA. • t Great River Energy, of Elk River, is the state's second largest electric utility. As a generation and transmission cooperative, the organization provides energy to 28 distribution co-ops. For information about Great River Energy, this project or to view a copy of the Certificate of Need applica- tion, visit. • www.GreatRiverEnergycom. Or contact us, at PlyMGline@grenergycom or 763-2412200. Hennepin County News Public Affairs - 612-348-3848 - 300 S. 6`' St., Minneapolis, MN 55487-0011 March 28, 2003 Contact: Paul Backer, Transportation Department, Construction Division, 763-745-7569 John Knudsen, Public Affairs, 612-348-6883 County Road 101 construction and detour start April 7; From west junction with State Highway 55 to Hackamore Road Hennepin County Road 101 (Brockton Lane) along the Plymouth/Medina border will be reconstructed from the Canadian Pacific Railroad tracks to 1,200 feet north of Hackamore Road, with a detour going into effect Monday, April 7. The project will improve turning capacity at the County Road 101/State Highway 55 intersection and eliminate the roadway's sharp curvature north of Evergreen Road. Designated left and right turn lanes will be built for all adjoining major intersections. Curb and gutter, roadway drains, and new pavement will replace the existing shoulder and ditch features. In addition, trail systems will be added along the west side of the roadway between Highway 55 and Evergreen Road and between Prairie Creek Road and Primrose Lane. Beginning April 7, a marked detour will guide motorists to County Road 116 as an alternate route. The detour will remain in effect for most of the summer. Hennepin County Transportation Department officials said County Road 101 at the Hackamore Road (County Road 47) intersection will be closed entirely, starting April 7. The intersection is expected to re -open before June 2003. During construction local traffic will be accommodated at all times; however, through traffic will need to use the marked detour. Transportation officials said completion of the two-mile construction project is expected by fall 2003. - more - County Road 101/2 For more information, contact Paul Backer, Hennepin County project engineer, at 763-745-7569 or 612-282-1714. To view a map of the construction zone, visit the Hennepin County Internet page: www.co.hennepin.mn.us Under "Services" in the left-hand column, select "Roads -closures and construction." -30- This news release and other fact sheets and news tips are available on the Hennepin County Public Affairs homepage -- www.co.hennepin.nm.us/PA/paindex.htm 155,