HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 03-21-1995MINUTES
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARCH 21, 1995
A regular meeting of the Plymouth City Council was called to order by Mayor Tierney at
7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the City Center, 3400 Plymouth Blvd., on
March 21, 1995.
PRESENT: Mayor Tierney; Councilmembers Edson, Anderson, Wold, Lymangood, and
Helliwell..
ABSENT: Councilmember Granath.
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Johnson, Assistant Manager Lueckert, Public Works
Director Moore, Community Development Director Hurlburt, Public Safety Director
Gerdes, Finance Director Hahn, Forester Buck, City Engineer Faulkner, Civil Engineer
Quanbeck, Property Management Coordinator Tabery, City Attorney Knutson, and
Administration Senior Clerk Typist Kurt Hoffman.
ITEM 3 FORUM
No one spoke at the Forum.
ITEM 4 GOVERNMENT FINANCE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION (GFOA)
AWARD
Mayor Tierney presented a special award from the Government Finance Officers
Association to the City Finance Department & Finance Director Hahn for
excellence in reporting standards. Finance Director Hahn accepted the award,
praising department staff for efforts in operation. He also thanked the City
Council for offering direction.
Mayor Tierney gave a plaque recognizing excellence in the Comprehensive Annual
Report 1993 Achievement Award to Larry Jacobson. She noted this is the 13th
year the City has won the award.
ITEM 5 APPROVE AGENDA
MOTION was made by Councilmember Helliwell, seconded by Councilmember
Edson, to approve the agenda.
Motion carried, six ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 2
ITEM 6 CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to approve the Consent Agenda.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-A APPROVE MINUTES
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to approve the minutes of the March 7 regular meeting.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-B APPROVE DISBURSEMENTS
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-179 APPROVING DISBURSEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDING MARCH 10, 1995.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-C ADOPT ORDINANCE CHANGING STREET NAME IN THE OUAIL
HOLLOW ADDITION
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Edson, to adopt ORDINANCE 95-15 CHANGING THE NAME OF
YORKTOWN PLACE NORTH IN THE PLAT OF QUAIL HOLLOW
SUBDIVISION IS CHANGED TO TRENTON PLACE NORTH.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-D APPROVE RENEWAL OF CONSUMPTION AND DISPLAY
LIQUOR LICENSES
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-180 APPROVING CONSUMPTION
AND DISPLAY LICENSES.
Motion carried, six ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 3
ITEM 6-E AWARD TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM CONTRACT
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-181 AWARDING THE CONTRACT
FOR THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM TO FUJITSU BUSINESS
COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-F STREET LIGHTING PROJECTS
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-182 DECLARING ADEQUACY OF
PETITION AND ORDERING PREPARATION OF REPORT STREET
LIGHTING HEATHER RUN 4TH ADDITION.
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-183 RECEIVING REPORT AND
ORDERING PROJECT STREET LIGHTING HEATHER RUN 4TH
ADDITION.
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-184 DECLARING ADEQUACY OF
PETITION AND ORDERING PREPARATION OF REPORT STREET
LIGHTING FERNBROOK WOODS 2ND ADDITION.
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-185 RECEIVING REPORT AND
ORDERING PROJECT STREET LIGHTING FERNBROOK WOODS 2ND
ADDITION.
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-186 DECLARING ADEQUACY OF
PETITION AND ORDERING PREPARATION OF REPORT STREET
LIGHTING HARRISON PLACE ON BASS CREEK.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 4
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-187 RECEIVING REPORT AND
ORDERING PROJECT STREET LIGHTING HARRISON PLACE ON
BASS CREEK.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-G AUTHORIZE MAYOR AND CITY MANAGER TO SIGN
EASEMENT AGREEMENT IN HICKORY HILLS ADDITION FOR
WATERMAIN
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-188 AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR
TO SIGN THE EASEMENT AGREEMENT HICKORY HILLS ADDITION
94091)
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-H COUNTY ROAD 61 (XENIUM LANE) IMPROVEMENTS,
HIGHWAY 55 TO 24TH AVENUE, PROJECT NO. 513
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-189 APPROVING PLANS XENIUM
LANE (COUNTY ROAD 61), CITY PROJECT NO. 513.
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-190 AUTHORIZING THE
INSTALLATION OF "NO PARKING" SIGNS ON XENIUM LANE
COUNTY ROAD 61) BETWEEN STATE HIGHWAY 55 AND 24TH
AVENUE NORTH CITY PROJECT NO. 513 HENNEPIN COUNTY
PROJECT NO. 5317.
Motion carried, six ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 5
ITEM 6-I APPROVE AGREEMENT WITH CP RAILROAD (SOO LINE) FOR
CROSSING ARMS ON SIGNAL AT PINEVIEW LANE, PROJECT NO. 935
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-191 AUTHORIZING EXECUTION
OF A CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT WITH
SOO LINE RAILROAD (CP RAIL SYSTEMS) FOR THE
INSTALLATION OF FLASHING LIGHT SIGNALS WITH HALF
ROADWAY GATES AT THE PINEVIEW LANE GRADE CROSSING.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 64 APPROVE METROLINK CONTRACT WITH MCTO
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-192 APPROVING A REVISED
CONTRACT WITH THE MCTO FOR PLYMOUTH METROLINK
SERVICES.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-K AWARD CONTRACT FOR PURCHASE OF REPLACEMENT 16 FT.
HYDROSTATIC ROTARY MOWER
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-193 APPROVING BID FOR (1)
HYDROSTATIC TRACTOR ROTARY MOWER
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-L REMOVING AREA ASSESSMENT FOR PIN 18-118-22-32-0002
FROM RESOLUTION 94-840, CITY PROJECT NO. 012 & 014
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-194 RESCINDING AREA
ASSESSMENT ON PIN 18-118-22-32-0002 AS ADOPTED IN
RESOLUTION 94-840.
Motion carried, six ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 6
ITEM 6-M DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT BOND REDUCTIONS
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-195 REDUCING DEVELOPMENT
BOND, CURTIS LAKE ADDITION (90105).
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-196 REDUCING DEVELOPMENT
BOND, CURTIS LAKE 2ND ADDITION (991101).
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-197 REDUCING DEVELOPMENT
BOND, PLYMOUTH OAKS ADDITION (93078).
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-198 REDUCING DEVELOPMENT
BOND, SWAN LAKE SOUTH ADDITION (92112).
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-199 REDUCING DEVELOPMENT
BOND, FORSTER PRESERVE ADDITION (92090).
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-200 REDUCING DEVELOPMENT
BOND, FORSTER PRESERVE PLAT 2 ADDITION (94057).
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-201 REDUCING DEVELOPMENT
BOND, KIMBERLY WOODS ADDITION (93018).
Motion carried, six ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 7
ITEM 6-N APPROVE SITE IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT REDUCTION
FOR PLYMOUTH PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (93141)
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-202 AUTHORIZING REDUCTION
OF SITE PERFORMANCE GUARANTEE FOR PLYMOUTH
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH LOCATED AT 3755 DUNKIRK LANE
NORTH. (93141)
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-0 APPROVE SITE IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT RELEASE FOR
TWIN CITY FAN & BLOWER (92100)
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-203 AUTHORIZING RELEASE OF
SITE PERFORMANCE GUARANTEE FOR OPUS CORPORATION FOR
TWIN CITY FAN & BLOWER PROPERTY LOCATED AT 5959
TRENTON LANE NORTH (92100).
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-P APPROVE AGREEMENT WITH MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION FOR COMMUNITY ROADSIDE LANDSCAPE
PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-204 AUTHORIZING AGREEMENT
WITH MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR
COMMUNITY ROADSIDE LANDSCAPE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-0 APPROVE RENEWAL OF GARBAGE HAULER LICENSES
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-205 RENEWING GARBAGE
HAULER LICENSES.
Motion carried, six ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 8
ITEM 6-R AWARD OF BIDS FOR LAWN MAINTENANCE
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-206 APPROVING BID FOR THE
1995 LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-S AWARD BID FOR TREE AND STUMP REMOVAL AT WEST
MEDICINE LAKE PARK
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-207 APPROVING THE 1995 WEST
MEDICINE TREE AND BRUSH REMOVAL CONTRACT.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-T APPROVE CONSULTANT CONTRACT FOR DOWNTOWN
PLYMOUTH STUDY
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-208 AWARDING THE CONTRACT
FOR CONSULTING SERVICES FOR PREPARATION OF A CONCEPT
PLAN AND DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR DOWNTOWN PLYMOUTH TO
HOISINGTON KOEGLER GROUP, INC.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 6-U ADOPT RESOLUTION TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ELM CREEK
CLUSTER PLANNING PROCESS
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-209 RESOLUTION AGREEING TO
THE PARTICIPATION OF THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH IN THE ELM
CREEK CLUSTER PLANNING PROCESS
Motion carried, six ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 9
ITEM 6-V LAND USE GUIDE PLAN AMENDMENT FOR WAYZATA SENIOR
HIGH SCHOOL
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Helliwell, to adopt RESOLUTION 95-210 APPROVING LAND USE GUIDE
PLAN AMENDMENT FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 284
WAYZATA) FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE NORTHWEST
INTERSECTION OF PEONY LANE AND THE SOO LINE RAILROAD
94131).
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 7-A 1995 STREET RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAM, PROJECT 501
Public Works Director Moore commented on both public hearings. Both projects
include special assessments that require public hearings. The steps of each project
are preparation of plans & specifications; bid letting; construction; and final
assessments which will mean another public hearing at the conclusion of each
project. Both projects have been published & mailings sent to affected property
owners.
Civil Engineer Quanbeck gave an overview of the four 1995 Street Reconstruction
Project areas and the proposed assessments. District 25 includes all streets located
west of Fernbrook Lane, south of County Road 9, east of Juneau Lane, and north
of 37th Avenue North. District 29 includes all streets located west of Larch Lane,
south of Schmidt Lake Road generally east of Pineview Lane and north of 46th
Avenue North. District 36 includes Plymouth Boulevard from State Highway 55
to 36th Avenue North. This project would also correct some drainage problems at
36th near the Cub Foods store. Work would be done on 36th Avenue from
Plymouth Boulevard to Vicksburg Lane. The Ranchview Lane area work was
added based on public comment and requests. People are concerned about safety
around the Birchview Elementary school. Curb and gutter would be put in place
where none is now and portions of the street will be widened from Gleason Lake
Drive to 7th Avenue North. He said the project is scheduled to be prepared by
May 2, with construction to begin in June and completed in Sept.
Public Works Director Moore said the $1.727 million estimated cost will mean
estimated assessments of $936 per lot for Ranchview Lane and residential areas
with existing concrete curb and gutter. Also, Ranchview Lane would have
additional assessments for concrete curb and gutter, widening, and storm sewer
estimated at $31.80 per front foot of property. The commercial areas affected will
be assessed $708 per equivalent unit. He said this may vary 1-2 % but is a fairly
accurate estimate.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 10
Mayor Tierney asked about paths, sidewalks, bike paths around Birchview
Elementary School. Public Works Director Moore said none is proposed as part
of the project. The existing street is narrowest here. He said there are right-of-
way issues around the school, and these forced the narrowed street. He said the
plan is to widen the street which will allow pedestrians to walk along the side of
street.
Mayor Tierney asked if there will be parking allowed on the street.
Public Works Director Moore responded that parking will be prohibited on school
days on the school side of the street. He said they want to continue this from 3rd
Avenue to 6th Avenue.
Mayor Tierney opened the public hearing at 7:28 pm.
Ken Streeter, 13100 35th Avenue North, asked about being assessed for his parcel
of land in District 36. He said it has no access to Plymouth Boulevard, but only
34th Avenue.
Sherry DeWolf, 3855 Glacier Lane, spoke of a flooding problem on the corner of
Glacier Lane and Harbor Lane she wants to see resolved by the improvements.
She said water runs off down to the area. She said the only time the intersection
corner was dry was in the drought period, when it was a sandy area. She suggested
that a catch basin would improve the drainage.
Mayor Tierney closed the public hearing at 7:32 p.m.
She gave staff the opportunity to comment on the residents' statements.
Public Works Director Moore said that Mr. Streeter doesn't need to have street
access to be assessed for the Plymouth Boulevard District project. He said they
don't know where access would be since it's undeveloped. He said at some date in
the future, right in/right out access to Plymouth Blvd. may be part of the site.
Public Works Director Moore said in the case of the flooding problem on Glacier
Lane and Harbor Lane that underground drain tile may be put in. He
recommended further study be done. He said problems with existing catch basins
have not been determined. He said it may be a more extensive problem. This
would be done with final design.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 11
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Lymangood to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 95-211 ORDERING
IMPROVEMENT AND PREPARATION OF PLANS AND
SPECIFICATIONS 1995 STREET RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAM CITY
PROJECT NO. 501.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 7-B NORTHWEST TRUNK SANITARY SEWER, DISTRICT NW -19,
PROJECT NO. 503
Public Works Director Moore explained that this project would have area
assessments since it involves trunk sanitary sewers. He said it is the last area inside
the Metropolitan Utility Service Area to be served. He described the extension of
8" to 12" trunk sanitary sewer line from a point east of the new Kimberly Lane
Elementary School to Peony Lane and then north to serve the future Wayzata
Senior High School site. He said it serves over a watershed line south of the
County Road 9 drainage divide, making it a more costly project. Connection fees
paid when building permits are issued will cover some of the expense.
City Engineer Dan Faulkner explained the technical aspects of the project and
alignment with past projects. The schedule is for bids to be opened in June, work
to begin in July, with completion of the project in September.
Public Works Director Moore explained project costs will amount to an $880
assessment per acre for residences; $1320 for business and industrial uses.
Mayor Tierney opened the public hearing at 7:45 p.m.
No one spoke.
As the Mayor closed the hearing, Marc Anderson, 420 Merrimac Lane,
representing Lundgren Bros. Construction Company, came forward to speak. He
said his firm had seen a copy of the feasibility report. He said his firm was in favor
of the project.
MOTION by Councilmember Edson seconded by Councilmember Lymangood to
adopt RESOLUTION NO. 95-212 ORDERING IMPROVEMENT AND
PREPARATION OF PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS NORTHWEST -19-
TRUNK SANITARY SEWER CITY PROJECT NO. 503
Motion carried, six ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 12
ITEM 8-A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT PLAN.
PRELIMINARY PLAN/PLAT, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AND REZONING
FOR SOO LINE WEST LOCATED AT THE NORTHWEST QUADRANT OF
COUNTY ROAD 9 AND PEONY LANE. LUNDGREN BROS. CONSTRUCTION.
94162
Mayor Tierney said that five affirmative votes are required on this issue, and since
one councilmember was absent, she asked if anyone wanted to delay the discussion
and vote. No one expressed opposition to the discussion and vote.
Community Development Director Hurlburt explained the "Soo Line West"
project. She said the developers are requesting a zoning change from Future
Restricted Development to Low Density Multiple Residential. The project will
involve approximately 71.7 acres of land and create 118 lots for detached homes.
She said there will be only two access roads into the development, from Rockford
Road, and from Peony Lane. She said there would be a community recreation area
planned for near the Peony Lane entrance to the development. She said there
would be wetlands areas in the northern part of the development.
She said Lundgren Bros. Construction Company has requested a reduction of
pavement width from 33 feet to 28 feet, although the right-of-way would remain
the same. She said staff and the members of the Planning Commission are divided
regarding use of narrower streets. She said the use of 28 -feet wide streets instead
of 33 -feet wide streets reduces traffic speed and saves on construction costs, but
means longer driveways for residents, as well as greater potential for problems
with water runoff, snow removal, and snow storage.
She said staff found that other cities, such as Eden Prairie, are using narrower
streets without much noticeable difference in problems from snow removal, water
run-off, or traffic speeding. She said the biggest issue is whether narrower streets
would compromise pedestrian safety. She said that they had no scientific data that
slower traffic may mean greater safety for pedestrians. She said one alternative
would be implementation of sidewalks. But, she said, the developers prefer wider
streets than narrow streets with sidewalks because of maintenance and
development costs.
Councilmember Helliwell asked if any other developments in Plymouth have 28 -
foot wide streets.
Public Works Director Moore said all streets developed in the past 15 to 18 years
are 32 -33 -feet wide, depending on curb. He said the city has tried to retrofit
streets wherever possible, to make them wider. But two areas that have narrower
streets are in Ivanhoe Woods and 18th and 19th Avenue east of Medicine Lake.
Both areas are heavily wooded and confined. He said the classified collector
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 13
streets are 36 -feet wide and wider; streets with four lanes are a minimum of 44 -
feet wide.
Community Development Director Hurlburt said all the streets in the proposed
development are considered local streets, not collectors. She said the Planning
Division recommends narrower streets due to the type of traffic and development.
She said it is because the area is residential, with minimal through access. Traffic
will come from only two outlets in the parcel, and there will be only an estimated
1,100 trips per day maximum on the streets.
Mayor Tierney asked if Ivanhoe Woods residents have commented on safety
hazards along those narrower streets. Public Works Director Moore said they
have not heard comments about the width. He noted that there are larger lots in
Ivanhoe Woods than in this proposed development.
Councilmember Helliwell asked if the number of lots remains the same depending
on street width. Planning Director Hurlburt said there would be no difference in
the number of lots.
Councilmember Lymangood asked for clarification on the projects in Eden Prairie.
He wanted to know if curb and gutter requirements are the same in that city, and if
sidewalks exist. Community Development Director Hurlburt said sidewalks are
not required in Eden Prairie.
Councilmember Wold asked Public Works Director Moore about maintenance
problems in cul-de-sacs. Public Works Director Moore said there are problems
with snow removal, and problems with proper sight distance in tree trimming. He
said they cost more money to maintain.
Councilmember Wold asked if maintenance would be less expensive if median
strips and islands in the cul-de-sacs didn't exist. Public Works Director Moore said
yes.
Community Development Director Hurlburt said she disagreed. She said cul-de-
sacs and their islands offer an aesthetic appeal. She said there are options to make
maintenance easier for public works. The islands in the cul-de-sacs are more
attractive, and do reduce the feeling of asphalt expansion.
Councilmember Wold asked Community Development Director Hurlburt if there
will be a homeowners association to maintain cul-de-sacs? She responded yes.
Councilmember Edson asked whether the City contracts out work on cul-de-sacs
when the City equipment doesn't fit. Public Works Director Moore said
maintenance work on 50-60 percent of cul-de-sacs is contracted out when City
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 14
equipment is not appropriate. He said islands in the cul-de-sacs do make the
streets more difficult to maintain.
Mayor Tierney asked if the cul-de-sacs in the proposed development are a shorter
length? Community Development Director Hurlburt said they will not be different
from other cul-de-sacs.
Marc Anderson, 420 Merrimac Lane, Director of Land Development at Lundgren
Bros. Construction Company, asked the Council for approval of conditional use
permit, plan and the plat. He said John Uban and Ken Adolf would speak about
different aspects of the project.
John Uban, a land planner with Dhalgren, Shardlow & Uban explained why the
project was developed around the wetland area, and why streets were developed
the way they were. He said there were different elevations and terrain, vegetation,
and plans for the future development of the new high school to work around. He
said present routes also needed to be considered. County Road 9, State Highway
55, Peony Lane, the Soo Line and the proposed bridge over the railway
complicated the development plan. He said they used limited restricted access
based on wetlands in the area and the terrain. He said one-third of the area is
considered open space. He added that cul-de-sacs with islands are not only
aesthetically pleasing, but the islands also could be used for snow storage. He told
the Council to look at a full balance in the project. He said that narrower roads
would work well for pedestrian movement to cross to and from other locations.
Marc Anderson gave a history of road widths in several Lundgren Bros
development projects. He said some of them did have sidewalks in Eden Prairie.
He said they had a project with a 26 -foot wide street and no sidewalk in a project
in Minnetonka and a 24 -foot wide street without sidewalk in Shorewood, as well
as narrower collector streets in Chanhassen. He said there will be one project
completed soon in Minnetrista, with a narrower street and a trail.
Mr. Anderson said his firm is also requesting a change in wording of Item 21 of the
resolution that sets conditions for the preliminary plan/plat and conditional use
permit. That item required that the RPUD Final Plat be submitted before the
contract for the trunk sanitary sewer is awarded.
He also found a wording change, perhaps a typo, in Item 27 of the conditions.
The sentence regarding access onto Queensland should read "45th Avenue N." not
49th Avenue N."
Mr. Anderson introduced Ken Adolf, engineer with Schoell & Madson,
representing Lundgren Bros. Construction Co., who addressed Item 24 in the
Engineering Memo. Mr. Adolf said the item refers to lots near storm water basins.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 15
He said other lots in the development could have lower minimum basement
elevations. Mr. Anderson asked that required elevations should be generalized for
the entire plan, rather than specifically detailed lot by lot.
Mr. Anderson requested revision of the condition in item 25-C of the Engineering
Memo to grant permission to do some grading of land areas. This item banned
development adjacent to Peony Lane until that street construction project is
complete.
Councilmember Helliwell wanted clarification on Item 24 of the Engineering
Memo. She asked if the developers generally wanted a minimum 2 feet above the
100 year high water level instead of specific elevation data for specific lots.
Mayor Tierney asked Public Works Director Moore to comment. He said the City
has not received data on all of the lots in the proposal. He said some may require
higher minimum levels. He doesn't believe that a change in wording of the
resolution is needed.
Councilmember Lymangood suggested that the data could be inserted as part of
the final resolution in the development contract.
Mr. Anderson said his firm would like to have the criteria by general definition;
and not locked in now with specific data on lots. He would like to have a
definition inserted that all lots will be provided for in the final plat process.
Public Works Director Moore said the City has no objection to that change.
Attorney Knutson said there was no legal problem with that suggestion.
Public Works Director Moore said that the City should be able to work around the
issue of grading mentioned in Item 25C.
Councilmember Lymangood suggested the wording allow only grading approved
by the Public Works Department.
Public Works Director Moore said he does have a concern with the request for
approval of the final plat and plan before the contract for sanitary sewer is
approved. He said this would be in reverse order of Item 21 in the approving
resolution.
Attorney Knutson said that would not be a legal problem. He recommended the
inclusion of a "Proceed at own risk" clause in the contract. He also recommended
that City officials not sign the Final Plat mylar copies that go to county registrar.
He said such phrasing could be directed in the resolution.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 16
Mayor Tierney: asked about the typographical error on Item 27 of the resolution,
that "49th Avenue" should read "45th Avenue". Public Works Director Moore
said that change is appropriate.
Mayor Tierney said that regarding the street width, safety is a consideration that is
often discussed by the Council. She said the example in Ivanhoe Woods is
appropriate, but she is concerned about precedence.
City Manager Johnson said information seems to suggest where pavement
narrowing has been done officials found some reduced speeding, but only about
two miles per hour. He also said the Planning staff found that Boulder, Colorado,
has developed a hierarchy of street widths based on service and the amount of
traffic. He said the Boulder plan had performance standards that involved four
options: 33 -foot wide streets; 28 -foot wide; 28 -foot wide with sidewalks, or 28 -
foot wide with striping to mark parking and pedestrian and bike passage. He said
all are possibilities to consider for Plymouth.
Councilmember Lymangood said the Council should consider wording changes for
Items 24 and 25C in the Engineering Report; additional phrasing in Item 27 in the
alternative resolution; correction of proper street names, and to ratify the
alternative resolution requiring 33 -foot wide streets.
MOTION by Councilmember Lymangood, seconded by Councilmember
Anderson, to adopt ORDINANCE 95-16 AMENDING THE ZONING
ORDINANCE TO CLASSIFY CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED AT THE
NORTHWEST QUADRANT OF PEONY LANE AND COUNTY ROAD 9
OLD ROCKFORD ROAD)(94162);
RESOLUTION NO. 95-213 APPROVING PLANNED UNIT
DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT PLAN FOR LUNDGREN BROTHERS AT
THE NORTHWEST QUADRANT OF PEONY LANE AND COUNTY
ROAD 9 (OLD ROCKFORD ROAD)(94162); and
RESOLUTION NO. 95-214 APPROVING PLANNED UNIT
DEVELOPMENT PRELIMINARY PLAN/PLAT AND CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT FOR LUNDGREN BROTHERS AT THE NORTHWEST
QUADRANT OF PEONY LANE AND COUNTY ROAD 9 (OLD
ROCKFORD ROAD)(94162),
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 17
with the following changes: Amending Condition 29 to read "A 33' back to
back street width design is required"; Amending Condition 27 to correct the
language from 49th Avenue North to 45th Avenue North; Amending
Condition 21 and Item 25a of the Engineer's Memo to provide that
submission of final plat can be done before contracts for sanitary sewer are
awarded if the developer signs a "hold harmless" agreement concerning the
construction of the sanitary sewer, and that the City will not sign plat mylars
until after a contract is awarded; Amending Item 24 of the Engineer's Memo
to require that all basement elevations shall be a minimum of two feet above
the 100 year high water level of any adjacent ponds or waterways; and
adding a new Condition No. 30 which amends Item 25d of the Engineer's
Memo to allow grading along Peony Lane, subject to prior approval by the
Director of Public Works.
Councilmember Lymangood noted factors in the proposed development: Speed
reduction, construction and maintenance costs; snow removal difficulties and
costs; safety factors, balanced against housing costs. He said all are valid factors
to be concerned with, but new data shows the right-of-way and street designs will
remain the same. He urged the Council to keep the street widths at 33 feet.
Councilmember Edson said he would support 28 -foot wide streets if a sidewalk
would be inserted into the plans to allow for safe pedestrian and bike traffic.
Councilmember Anderson said he was disappointed that the project proposed 28 -
foot wide streets without trails. He said he can't support that plan because of the
lack of trails and narrow width.
Mayor Tierney asked Marc Anderson why the developers selected 28 -foot wide
streets. In response, he offered another option, that of. 28 -foot wide streets with
signage that forbids parking on one side of the street, and a stripe -marked bike
lane on that side. He said residents don't want to maintain trails. He said the costs
of construction are prohibitive as development increases because of repeated
rebuilding of curbs and paths during construction on sites. He said that the 33 -
foot wide streets without a sidewalk would be preferable to 28 -foot wide streets
with a sidewalk.
Mayor Tierney said that she supports safety considerations versus performance
standards of the streets. She said another option would be to table the issue and
study it in a session to get more information. She said at present, they have no
comparisons with which to work.
Councilmember Helliwell asked if they can compare Ivanhoe Woods to this
project. She said in Ivanhoe Woods, lots are larger, homes are older, setbacks are
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 18
larger. She is willing to compromise and vote in favor of 33 -foot wide streets, with
the addition of a painted stripe.
Councilmember Lymangood said the Council should vote on the resolution as it
stands in the motion. He said the City could do a study session later to set
performance standards.
Mayor Tierney said the transportation guide plan is too far from completion to try
to hold this issue for discussion.
Councilmember Edson asked Attorney Knutson whether they could come back
with revisions after approval tonight. Attorney Knutson said approval of the
revised 33 -foot wide streets option won't change plat design or construction detail.
Councilmember Edson said that the compromise will not slow the development
project, but that it will allow time for the City to produce data from research.
Marc Anderson said his company wants a vote tonight on 33 -foot wide streets so
they will not have to come back later.
Motions carried, six ayes.
Councilmember Lymangood, with Council concurrence, directed staff to study the
differences in street width as they affect speed; water run-off, future reconstruction
costs; lower initial construction costs; snow removal; on -street parking; and the
effect on pedestrian safety of having sidewalks or pathways present.
Councilmember Wold suggested a discussion of the use of white stripes on streets.
He said the City could identify its own striping & study the effects.
Community Development Director Hurlburt said the study should include existing
streets as well as new construction standards.
Public Works Director Moore pointed out that improvements on 26th Avenue
include use of a white stripe; but that work won't be complete until late summer.
ITEM 8-B ADOPT ORDINANCES FOR GRADING AND EROSION
CONTROL; EROSION CONTROL AND STORM WATER PONDS; AND
EROSION CONTROL ONTO PUBLIC PROPERTY.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Lymangood seconded by Councilmember
Anderson adopting ORDINANCE 95-17, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER IV OF THE PLYMOUTH CITY CODE CONCERNING
GRADING AND EROSION CONTROL;
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 19
ORDINANCE 95-17, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER V OF
THE PLYMOUTH CITY CODE CONCERNING EROSION CONTROL
AND STORM WATER PONDS; and
ORDINANCE 95-18, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER VIII OF
THE PLYMOUTH CITY CODE CONCERNING GRADING AND
EROSION CONTROL.
Councilmember Lymangood asked about sedimentation basins and the use of hay
bales. Public Works Director Moore said the ordinance is not specific about this.
It is difficult to keep mud and sediment from roadways and runoff areas. He said
it's not required for developers to have siltation fences around sedimentation
basins, but developers are required to clean sediment basins while construction
goes on.
Motions carried, six ayes.
Councilmember Lymangood stated that the issue of protection of sedimentation
basins be forwarded to the Environmental Quality Committee.
ITEM 8-C SPECIAL ELECTION FOR OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL
IMPROVEMENTS
Park Director Blank gave background on the issues surrounding the proposed
referendum, the desire for preservation of open spaces, and advancement of trails
in Plymouth. He said four sites were selected for purchase and work is underway
to explore purchase options of the parcels, but none has been completed yet. He
recognized members of the Open Space Committee for their work. He said the
Park and Recreation Advisory Committee looked at the plan, but failed to come up
with finance options. One hundred twenty acres of open space would be
purchased at a price of approximately $2 million, plus funding for trail
development and expansion.
Finance Director Hahn offered notes on the bond referendum options. He said the
levy would be about $8.31 on a $150,00 home, roughly what it is at present due
on the existing park bonds that will end in 1996. He said valuations recently mean
that the amount would probably be slightly lower. He said the City could sell
additional bonds without a double levy on taxpayers. He said debt service would
increase slightly but the amount would be roughly what people are paying today.
Councilmember Anderson asked about legal requirements on how the ballot should
read. He said it should be clearly stated what the maximum amount is that could
be raised.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 20
Councilmember Edson said they need to make clear that one bond issue is expiring
and is being paid off, and that this is a new bond but without any additional
increase in property taxes. Finance Director Hahn said that was correct.
Mayor Tierney pointed out how the school bond issue was phrased to clearly point
to how much of a tax increase it would mean. She said this bond issue would not
mean a tax increase.
Finance Director Hahn said rate issues are not clear to most people. He said the
maximum amount raised will be more than will be levied in the first year.
Councilmember Edson said five years of trails projects developed in a shorter
period of time is an appropriate use for this sort of bond money, because this is a
new endeavor. He said it's appropriate to go to citizens with this vote to
determine if the Council is going in the right direction.
Lee Johnson, 17035 12th Avenue N., encouraged the City to move ahead as
proposed. He suggested even the use of capital improvement funds to purchase
the land if needed.
David Priebe, 3825 Forestview Lane, thanked the Council for the process and
expressed hope for a successful vote. He said most of the citizens approve of what
the council has done to date. He thanked the Park and Recreation Advisory
Committee and the Open Space Committee.
Councilmember Lymangood called the referendum an opportunity for citizens to
make a statement on what kind of city they want. He said such an item is
unprecedented, and he fully supports the bond issue.
Councilmember Anderson offered thanks to City staff. He stated that the Council
is responsive to what residents want. The referendum needs promotion to the
public on what is available in open space areas.
Mayor Tierney said her biggest concern is to examine financing closely, and to
manage development around what will be the largest high school in the state. She
said the City put together a proposal that results in no tax increase. She said the
City should further examine other open space parcels.
Councilmember Helliwell said she doesn't have a problem bringing the referendum
to voters but she feels the timing is a concern. She said the City is spending about
25,000 to hold the referendum in May, when the voter turnout will not be good.
She said she would rather hold the referendum in November when the general City
election will bring a better turnout.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 21
She said that open spaces are worth preserving but residents in the community are
interested in other things as well. She suggested including a golf course,
community pools, recreation areas and other areas of interest to attract a larger
vote turnout. She asked Attorney Knutson if it is possible to add items.
Attorney Knutson said the decision of how to phrase the ballot question is at the
Council's discretion.
Councilmember Lymangood said part of the reason for this structuring is based on
analysis of needs and cost comparison of community improvement. He said the
City Manager had a list of issues that should be faced over the next few years.
Keeping all of those on the plan would mean a $6.6 million shortfall in the
accounts. The bond would ease that shortfall, and leave funds for such possible
things as a community pool, fire station, municipal golf course, and other things.
He said it is too late to add these things to this bond referendum.
Mayor Tierney agreed with Councilmember Lymangood. She said leveraging
dollars from community improvement funds and bond issues without a tax increase
will work to stretch dollars now and in the future.
Councilmember Helliwell questioned waiting on other issues like ice rinks and
pools. She said they have been longer at hand, and she warned not to wait too
much longer.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Edson, seconded by Councilmember
Anderson to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 95-178 CALLING FOR A SPECIAL
ELECTION RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL
OBLIGATION BONDS.
Motion carried, six ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 22
ITEM 9-A AWARD BIDS FOR CITY CENTER EXPANSION
MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE AND FURNITURE INSTALLATION
MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember
Lymangood to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 95-215 APPROVING THE
PURCHASE OF MISCELLANEOUS FURNISHINGS FOR THE CITY
CENTER EXPANSION AND RENOVATION PROJECT.
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember
Lymangood to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 95-216 APPROVING CHANGE
ORDER #3, AN INCREASE IN THE CITY CENTER PROJECT BUDGET
OF $31,306.35 FOR INTERIOR FURNISHINGS, AND DESIGNATES THE
PROJECT ADMINISTRATION FUND AS THE SOURCE FOR THE
INCREASE.
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember
Lymangood to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 95-217 APPROVING AN
INCREASE OF $10,048.51 TO THE CONTRACT OF PINK COMPANIES
FOR WORK STATION FURNITURE AND $17,472.22 IN SALES TAX
FOR THE ENTIRE PURCHASE.
Motion carried, six ayes.
MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember
Lymangood to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 95-218 AWARDING THE
CONTRACT FOR FURNITURE INSTALLATION TO BROWNSWORTH,
INCORPORATED IN THE AMOUNT OF $33,151.88.
Motion carried, six ayes.
ITEM 9-B CHANGE ORDER NO.2 - CITY CENTER EXPANSION PROJECT
MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember
Lymangood to adopt RESOLUTION 95-219 APPROVING CHANGE
ORDER NO.2 - CITY CENTER EXPANSION PROJECT NO. 126.
Motion carried, six ayes.
Regular Council Meeting
March 21, 1995
Page 23
MOTION was made by Councilmember Lymangood seconded by Councilmember
Anderson, to adjourn the meeting at 9:44 p.m.
Motion carried, six ayes.
Kurt Hoffman /VSr. Clerk Tv Administration