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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 06-20-1994MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 209 1994 The 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 June 20, 1994 PRESENT: Mayor Tierney, Councilmembers Anderson, Morrison, Lymangood, Helliwell, Granath, and Edson. ABSENT: None. STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Johnson, Assistant Manager Lueckert, Finance Director Hahn, Community Development Director Hurlburt, Public Works Director Moore, Park Director Blank, Public Safety Director Gerdes, Planning Supv. Senness, City Attorney Barnard, and City Clerk Ahrens. ITEM 3-A FORUM, REQUEST FOR BERM ALONG COUNTY ROAD 9 Peter Perrine, 4280 Ximines Lane North, represented residents of Ximines Circle, whose yards abut County Road 9. Residents are concerned about the amount of noise from County Road 9, and they have performed a study showing that the noise levels during the day and evening exceed state standards. He stated construction is currently occurring in this area so it is the ideal time to incorporate a berm with the project. He stated the money already earmarked for landscaping will cover the cost. Mr. Perrine stated the City Engineer has agreed to submit a permit application to the County for permission to install the berm, and he requested Council assistance as needed as the project moves along. Director Moore stated staff is working with the County on this issue, and most of the area where the berm would be constructed is County right-of-way. The watermain project will not be completed for about two weeks and within that time, the County may approve the filling for the berm construction. He requested a copy of the noise study results. Mr. Perrine indicated he will provide the noise study information to staff. He believes a berm will significantly reduce the noise level. ITEM 3-B FORUM, EXCESSIVE SIGNAGE George Mayleben, 12705 55th Avenue North, shared his concerns about excessive temporary signage and speed limits. He lives on a corner lot and many garage sale and realty signs are placed on his property. He has spoken with the police Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 2 department and believes that the sign ordinance should be revised because there is difficulty with employees reading and interpreting the code. Temporary signs are placed on medians and corners, and many of them are directing people to sales many miles away. They become a safety issue. He also stated that 40 mph is too high a speed limit for Pineview Lane with walking traffic on the street, and he has witnessed motorcycles driving up to an 80 mph speed. He encouraged the Council to address the sign ordinance and speed limits. Public Safety Director Gerdes responded that the police division investigates and enforces zoning violations related to signage based on complaints. One of the problems with interpretation is the complexity of the Zoning Ordinance. He stated that Pineview Lane is on the police special assignment list until Northwest Blvd. is opened. He stated that he and Community Development Director Hurlburt will discuss the Zoning Ordinance sign provisions and report back to the Council. ITEM 4-A PROCLAMATION OF DAVE DAVENPORT DAY Mayor Tierney proclaimed June 29 as David Davenport Day in the City of Plymouth. ITEM 4-B ANNOUNCEMENT OF MUSIC IN PLYMOUTH - PLYMOUTH CIVIC LEAGUE Sandy Adolfson and Wes Clemens represented the Plymouth Civic League. Sandy Adolfson invited residents to attend Music in Plymouth on Wednesday, June 29 and described the scheduled entertainment. Wes Clemens stated family memberships have increased somewhat this year. He thanked the City for its financial contribution, and noted that Target Greatland has again funded the cost of fireworks. ITEM 5-A MEETING ADJOURNMENT TIME Councihnember Helliwell announced that she intends to make a motion to adjourn the meeting this evening at 10 p.m. Late night meetings lasting until midnight or later are acceptable and cause difficulties for Councilmembers and staff. Manager Johnson suggested that a third regular meeting could be held during months where there is a significant amount of Council business. Also, staff could prepare agendas so they can reasonably be completed by 10 p.m. However, some people will have their business delayed to future meetings. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 3 MOTION was made by Mayor Tierney, seconded by Councilmember Granath, to direct staff to recommend the scheduling of additional regular Council meetings on off -Mondays where necessary. Mayor Tierney suggested that regular meetings could begin at 6:30 p.m. Councilmember Helliwell expressed concern because it is difficult for residents working outside of Plymouth to get home and then arrive at the City Center for a 6:30 p.m. meeting. She favors implementing regular meetings on off -Mondays; then considering other options if needed. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 5-B APPROVE AGENDA Manager Johnson recommended that Item 8-13 be deleted from the agenda. Harstad Companies has withdrawn their request because they have worked out an arrangement with the homeowner association. MOTION was made by Councilmember Lymangood, seconded by Councilmember Anderson, to move Items 8-A, 8-C, 8-17, and 9-A to the Consent Agenda/ Motion carried, seven ayes. Mayor Tierney added two items from the Council Information Memo for discussion as Items 9-13 and 9-C. MOTION was made by Mayor Tierney, seconded by Councilmember Helliwell, to approve the agenda with the addition of Items 9-13 and 9-C and the deletion of Item 8-B. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 6-A CONSENT AGENDA MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to approve the Consent Agenda with the removal of Items 6-D, 6-I, and 6-L. Motion carried, seven ayes. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 4 ITEM 6-A APPROVE CITY COUNCIL MINUTES MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to approve minutes of the April 18 Regular Meeting, April 25 Study Session, April 25 Board of Review Meeting, May 23 Study Session, and June 13 Study Session. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 6-B APPROVE DISBURSEMENTS MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-336 APPROVING DISBURSEMENTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDING JUNE 10, 1994. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 6-C RENEW 3.2 ON -SALE AND OFF -SALE LIQUOR LICENSES MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-337 APPROVAL OF ON -SALE AND OFF -SALE 3.2 LIQUOR LICENSES. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 6-E ZEMAN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY. SITE PLAN AMENDMENT (94041) MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-338 APPROVING SITE PLAN AMENDMENT FOR ZEMAN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 5353 NATHAN LANE NORTH (94041). Motion carried, seven ayes. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 5 ITEM 6-F LAUKKA-WILLMMS PARKERS LAKE P.U.D. LANDSCAPING PLAN AMENDMENT (94047) MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-339 APPROVING MIXED PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT LANDSCAPE PLAN AMENDMENT FOR LAUKKA-WILLIAMS PARKERS LAKE FOR PARKERS LAKE NORTH 9TH ADDITION LOCATED AT SHENANDOAH LANE AND VICKSBURG LANE (94047). Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 6-G BETH AND PERRY BLOOM. PRELIMINARY PLAN AMENDMENT AND C.U.P. (94040) (RPUD 90-2) MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-340 APPROVING AMENDED RESIDENTIAL PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR BETH AND PERRY BLOOM FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 18740 39TH AVENUE NORTH (94040). Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 6-H LUNDGREN BROS. CONSTRUCTION COMPANY INC FINAL PLAT FOR SAVANNAH (93112) MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-341 APPROVING FINAL PLAT AND DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT FOR LUNDGREN BROTHERS FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SCHMIDT LAKE ROAD AND FERNBROOK LANE NORTH (93112) Motion carried, seven ayes. MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-342 SETTING CONDITIONS TO BE MET PRIOR TO FILING OUT THE REMAINING FINAL PLAT FOR LUNDGREN BROTHERS FOR SAVANNAH, FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SCHMIDT LAKE ROAD AND FERNBROOK LANE NORTH (93112) Motion carried, seven ayes. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 6 MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-343 ADOPTING ASSESSMENTS, CITY PROJECT NUMBER 416, SANITARY SEWER AND WATER MAIN AREA -SAVANNAH. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 64 SET PUBLIC HEARING FOR STREET LIGHT BUROVEMENTS MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-344 DECLARING ADEQUACY OF PETITION AND ORDERING PREPARATION OF REPORT, STREET LIGHTING - TIMBER CREEK AND LAKE PARK HEIGHTS ADDITIONS. Motion carried, seven ayes. MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-345 RECEIVING REPORT AND CALLING FOR HEARING ON STREET LIGHTING EVIPROVEMENTS - TINIBER CREEK AND LAKE PARK HEIGHTS ADDITIONS. Motion carried, seven ayes. MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-346 DECLARING ADEQUACY OF PETITION AND ORDERING PREPARATION OF REPORT, STREET LIGHTING - ASPLUND'S OAKWOOD SHORES ADDITION. Motion carried, seven ayes. MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-347 RECEIVING REPORT AND CALLING FOR HEARING ON STREET LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS - ASPLUND'S OAKWOOD SHORES ADDITION. Motion carried, seven ayes. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 7 ITEM 6-K SET EYIPROVEMENT HEARING ON 26TH AVENUE EVIPROVEMENTS, PROJECT 601 MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-348 CALLING FOR HEARING ON IMPROVEMENTS, 26TH AVENUE STREET EVIPROVEMENTS, CITY PROJECT NO. 601. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 7-A PUBLIC HEARING ON WEST MEDICINE LAKE PARK MASTER PLAN Park Director Blank presented the staff report on the West Medicine Lake Park Master Plan. He stated the park has been in the planning stages for 24 years. The project is proceeding in accordance with the adopted Comprehensive Plan and the Capital Improvement Program. The currently adopted park system plan contains four major City parks to be geographically distributed throughout the community. Timber Shores on Bass Lake is the designated city park in northeast Plymouth. Parkers Lake is the designated city park in southwest Plymouth. Plymouth Creek Park is designated for central Plymouth, and West Medicine Lake Park is the designated city park for southeast Plymouth. Director Blank stated that three major trails go into this park, and West Medicine Lake Park was designated as having city-wide impact because of the significant natural resources available at this site. Residents of this area have requested the development of this park for many years. He stated the plan calls for relocation of West Medicine Lake Blvd. The park consists of approximately 65 acres, two- thirds of which will be natural preserve. The remaining one-third of the area will be developed for park uses. He stated the Park and Recreation Advisory Cormnission has conducted numerous public meetings to gather consensus of the community with regard to the future development of this park. Hundreds of individuals have participated in meetings held at the City Center and at Medicine Lake City Hall. A focus group of seven residents living immediately around the park was convened to work directly with the consultants on the preparation of the final master plan. The focus group unanimously recommended adoption of this master plan to the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission, and the Park Commission unanimously recommends adoption of the master plan to the City Council. He stated the master plan was reviewed at three public meetings, and a direct mailing was done to 500 households in the vicinity. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 8 Park Director Blank briefly described the road alignment of West Medicine Lake Drive. At 18th Avenue, the roadway will go westerly to the old Forestview Lane alignment, then to the old West Medicine Lake Drive alignment. All improvements will be done within the park property. The curved roadway is proposed with a median and four-way stop within the park in an effort to slow traffic. Major activities proposed in the park include walking, biking, fishing, tennis, children's playground, new and improved swimming beach, picnic shelters, and boat dock. No boat launching is proposed in the park plan. The winter ice fishing access is to be moved 1,500 feet to the north, further away from the swimming beach. There will be space for 250 vehicles on the site, with construction of 130- 140 parking spaces with the initial phase of the project. He stated the City has purchased about 17 homes and businesses to create the vacant property for the park site over the last 24 years. The park style will use heavy timber structures and stone where possible, and earth -tone colors. Public Works Director Moore stated that at the first public information meeting, questions were raised about the effect the proposed park development would have on traffic in the area. West Medicine Lake Drive is a major collector, and 26th Avenue and 18th Avenue are minor collectors for the area bounded by Medicine Lake, Highway 55, and Northwest Blvd. He stated the current estimated average daily traffic generated by the existing park in the summer is 50 vehicles per day. Based on full development of the park master plan, 300 vehicles per day are estimated, and much pedestrian traffic is predicted. While that appears to be a large increase in traffic, that is only 2 to 7 percent increase of traffic for the entire area. The conclusion of the traffic study is that the proposed master plan for the park will not have a significant impact on West Medicine Lake Drive, 18th Avenue, or 26th Avenue. The traffic was projected through the year 2010. Councilmember Granath asked if the traffic study assumed full development of the park with the maximum number of parking spaces. Director Moore stated yes Mayor Tierney opened the public hearing at 8:00 p.m. on the master plan for West Medicine Lake Park. Steven Chase, 11901 23rd Avenue North, stated he lives adjacent to the north end of West Medicine Lake Park. He is concerned about a decrease of his property value if the woods are removed for tennis and basketball courts in this area. He recommended that the tennis court be moved to the location of the parking lot Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 9 adjacent to the lake to improve park security and preserve wildlife areas. There may also be less environmental damage to the flood plain. Roger Meyerhoff, 11825 23rd Avenue North, agreed with the concerns about the proposed location of the tennis and basketball courts. He lives on 23rd Avenue and West Medicine Lake Drive, and believes that an additional 300 vehicles per day will have a dramatic impact on the quality of life in this area. He questioned whether a four-way stop sign in the middle of the park will impact traffic at 23rd Avenue and the park edge. He stated that the existing stop sign at 23rd Avenue is not observed by motorists, and a three-way stop sign on 23rd Avenue may do more to stop the traffic. However, that is outside of the park. Jayme Hlavacek, 11831 18th Avenue North, stated they have heard about the plan for a number of years. They reside at 18th Avenue and Forestview Lane and are concerned about an additional 300 vehicles per day. She believes the roadway curve and blind spots could pose problems. She purchased her property because of the woods and natural area, and she believes the park plan will help maintain the natural area. Ms. Hlavacek asked if traffic lights would be considered in the future at 18th Avenue and Highway 55, and if there will be stop signs at 18th Avenue and Forestview Lane because that would be an access to the park. She asked why a hard -surfaced trail is planned for the south side of 18th Avenue rather than the park side. She also asked if the road will be lowered and if parking will be allowed on 18th Avenue. She anticipates that people will park on 18th Avenue in order to fish at the park. She asked about the relocation of mailboxes on the north side of 18th Avenue and if a majority of the trees will be retained. Louis Lavoie, 2675 Larch Lane, stated the park concept is a very good plan. He urged the Council to consider the need for additional picnic shelters or to identify contingency sites. He believes the seven small shelters and one large shelter are insufficient for the demand. Mr. Lavoie expressed two concerns about the plan: 1) The parking lots abut the lake at a premium point and he believes parking would be better at the southern end of the park; 2) The loss of the hill for excavation of the beach, as this is one of the most beautiful parts of the park. He suggested moving the beach nearer the natural creek. Bruce Larson, 1940 East Medicine Lake Blvd., represented the Association of Medicine Lake Citizens (AMLAC). He stated that AMLAC believes the park is a great idea and supports development. The public process has been good and has incorporated public input to the plan. He stated the City has been receptive to ideas on the plan from the public. He stated AMLAC has some concerns about users of this park. They hope it is primarily Plymouth residents and not a wider attraction. He stated local residents have some concerns about boat traffic, car traffic, safety concerns, noise, pollution, project cost, and increased taxes for Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 10 construction and operation. Thus, the group believes it should be developed, but supports more passive uses in the park. Dick Milner, 2355 Jonquil Lane, stated that about three months ago residents indicated at a meeting that this plan was too complex and destructive. He stated this is an environmentally sensitive area, and expressed concern about the lack of safety features in the park. He stated there may be dangers of drowning because children could easily fall into the creek, and rapes and assaults could occur because of the bushes and trees. Adele Klar, 271 Peninsula Road, Medicine Lake, stated her property will be directly across from the park. She is concerned about safety on the lake, and the narrow channel between the peninsula and the park. Residents near the end of the peninsula have noticed very fast boat traffic, and there are concerns that this boating and fishing area will be congested. She suggested a "closed throttle" area at the channel for the safety of the park users and the residents of the area. Glen E. Hansen, 1805 Forestview Lane, stated he owns 300' of property adjacent to the park, and is a member of the focus group. He shares the concerns expressed about the park, and supports the master plan. Mr. Hansen believes the issue about the location of the tennis courts on the north end of the park should be addressed, and wetlands should be retained. He is personally not in favor of a parking lot or tennis lots being across from his property. He stated residents have expressed good questions about property resale values and retention of the natural area, but he believes the master plan is good. Arlene Johnson, 3535 Rosewood Lane, stated she doesn't live close to this area. She would like to know how many trees of 3" or larger diameter will be lost so the park can be constructed. Mr. Chase stated that one of the other neighbors indicated that the hill near the beach was a past Indian burial mound and that should be addressed. Mark Wahl, PRAC Commissioner, stated that the several information meetings were well attended. A revised plan was generated following the first meeting. He believes that a majority of the residents in the neighborhood are very excited about the master plan. Mayor Tierney closed the public hearing at 8:37 p.m. Staff answered questions raised at the public hearing. Director Blank stated that a trail is proposed on the west side of 23rd Avenue to provide access for the neighborhood to the north. He noted that this is only a master plan, and detailed engineering and design will determine the best location. It is conceivable that the Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 11 tennis courts could be moved more to the middle of the park, but that would be based on soil testing information. He stated that the City is not proposing to alter the shoreline or remove the hill described by the speaker, but some parking is needed in the middle of the park for use associated with picnic grounds, beach area, and lake viewing. Mr. Blank stated there is a blind spot on 18th Avenue at Evergreen Lane resulting from the grade elevation of Evergreen. The proposed roadway realignment will remove that blind intersection. In addition, a sidewalk will be added to provide access to the park for resident in neighborhoods south of the park. Director Blank stated that proof of parking is being shown within the park so there will not be parking on residential streets. He addressed the need for beach improvements. The beach currently has a drop-off that is unsafe for swimmers. The swimming beach was the activity most requested at every public meeting, and the modification will create a beach that is safe. The second request was for ice skating. He stated that seven picnic shelters will be initially adequate. There are additional picnic tables that will be placed on the grass without a shelter. He stated that curb and gutter will be placed on all hard -surfaces including the parking areas to provide for good drainage. The water will be treated in a NURP pond before it flows into the lake. This will be an improvement from the current condition where all debris from the roadway flows directly into the lake. He stated that safety of park visitors is the primary concern of staff. This will be considered during design of the park. Parking lots and the trails will be lighted, and design will ensure that the police will have clear views of the park from the parking area. He stated that a tree inventory will not be done until the final road alignment is established. Much of the road work will overlay previously surfaced areas. Director Blank stated the City of Plymouth does not have the jurisdiction to regulate boat traffic on Medicine Lake. The City Council could direct staff to contact the City of Medicine Lake to determine whether the two cities concur that a "Slow - No Wake Zone" should be requested of Hennepin County for DNR approval. Mayor Tierney asked how wakes will affect the swimming beach. Director Blank stated that by recessing the swirmning area, staff believes it will be much safer for swimmers. If improvements are not done to the beach, he would not recommend reopening the beach. He stated that the City does not advertise use of its parks, but they are not restricted for use. The park is not designed to compete with Hennepin County Parks that serve hundreds of people at a time. All of the City facilities are Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 12 available on a first-come, first-served basis which deters very large groups from using City parks. Director Blank stated he is not familiar with any Indian mounds on the site. He stated the existing roadway is over that area. With respect to mailbox relocation, he stated staff and residents generally meet with the post office representative to find a mutually agreeable area. The mailboxes may even stay in the same location. Director Blank summarized that the purpose of this meeting was for residents to review the overall master plan for the park, including uses proposed in the park and their general locations. The Council should now consider approval of the master plan and authorize the consultant to do preliminary engineering and design work. They will also begin working to obtain the necessary permits from various agencies. Following the design work, residents will have another opportunity to review the park plan. Councilmember Lymangood requested that each resident who spoke at this public hearing be mailed a Park and Recreation Advisory Commission roster and focus group roster. MOTION was made by Councilmember Granath, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-353A APPROVING WEST MEDICINE LAKE PARK MASTER PLAN, AND RESOLUTION 94-353B AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF 1995 PARK GRANT APPLICATION, and RESOLUTION 94-353B AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF 1995 PARK GRANT APPLICATION. Mr. Milner stated he believes the swimming beach and creek will be an attractive nuisance. Attorney Barnard explained that an attractive nuisance is something that attracts people and then becomes a danger. The Council needs to make the decision whether it is designed with the appropriate safeguards. Manager Johnson stated many of the safety factors will be addressed at the detailed design phase. MOTION to amend the main motion was made by Councilmember Lymangood, seconded by Councilmember Anderson, that the City tax levy rate not be raised to develop and operate West Medicine Lake Park. Councilmember Anderson explained that the Council's goal is to develop this park without requiring an increase in taxes. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 13 Councilmember Edson questioned whether the motion refers to the levy rate or tax increase. Manager Johnson noted that a future City Council may find it necessary to increase taxes. It may become an accounting issue whether taxes are being increased to support operation of the park or for other services. Councilmember Granath supported the intent of the proposed amendment, but questioned whether this would be binding on future Councils. He also noted it would be difficult to prove compliance. Attorney Barnard did not know if it would be binding on future Councils; however, he believes it could be a troublesome issue for future Councils and staffs. Manager Johnson suggested that the amendment be viewed as a statement of intent by this Council, and that it be referred to the City Attorney to determine if anything further can be done for future Councils. Councilmember Helliwell stated she is willing to support the intent not to increase the tax rate to operate this park, but noted difficulties in identifying the reason for any future increase in the tax rate. Councilmember Edson stated he would support the tern "intent", as it is one of the Council's goals not to increase the tax rate. He stated it is unnecessary to include it in the resolution as this Council cannot bind the actions of a future Council. Motion on the amendment failed: Anderson and Lymangood ayes; Morrison, Helliwell, Granath, Edson, and Tierney nays. MOTION to amend was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Lymangood, that it is the intent of this Council that the City tax rate not be increased for development or operation of this park. Motion to amend carried, seven ayes. Main motion as once amended carried, seven ayes. Park Director Blank stated that in January or February, the design documents will be available for review. Phase I construction is contained in the Capital Improvement Program for 1995 construction. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 14 ITEM 8-A MASTER PLAN FOR SEVEN PONDSIHEATHER RUN NEIGHBORHOOD PARK MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-349 APPROVING MASTER PLAN FOR SEVEN PONDS/I FATHER RUN NEIGHBORHOOD PARK. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 8-C AUTHORIZATION TO SECURE APPRAISAL ON MISSION PARTNERSHIP PROPERTY MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-350 AUTHORIZING APPRAISAL OF PROPERTY. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 8-D SELECT CONSULTANT TO PREPARE WETLAND INVENTORY AND ORDINANCE Planning Supv. Senness presented the staff report on the recommendation to select a consultant to prepare a wetland inventory and ordinance. She stated the major difference in the amount of the proposals relates to the amount of proposed field work. All of the consultants would have had the existing GIS information available to them. She stated the National Wetland Inventory was done on a large scale and there are inaccuracies. One of the intents of the inventory is to improve the City's information. Councilmember Lymangood asked about the cost to have a list of the existing nonconformities provided. Supv. Senness stated the cost is about $4,000 to do a City-wide inventory. The recommended consultant proposed an option to use the GIS to prepare an inventory of potential non -conforming lots and structures in the City. Staff had originally suggested that only a representative sample of nonconformities could be accomplished using manual methods, but GIS will allow a complete city-wide inventory. Councilmember Lymangood noted that the request for proposals had a deadline of June 9, but it appears information was received from one firm on June 16. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 15 Supv. Senness explained that all proposals were received by the established deadline. Following receipt of the proposals, staff met with the recommended consultant. The consultant revised some figures based on that meeting. MOTION was made by Mayor Tierney, seconded by Councihnember Granath, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-354 APPROVING CONSULTANT AGREEMENT, WETLAND INVENTORY AND ORDINANCE. Councihnember Granath requested that comparisons be included when the Council reviews these types of proposals in the future. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 8-E APPROVE "ALL -WAY" STOP AT 34TH AVENUE AND RANIER LANE Public Works Director Moore recommended that an all -way stop be installed at 34th Avenue and Ranier Lane. Over the past several years, staff has received requests for additional stop signage along 34th Avenue, west of County Road 101. These requests have included a request for "Slow, Children Playing" sign, request for "School Crosswalk" markings, request for bus stop signs, request for curve signs and decreased speed limit on the 34th Avenue curve at Ranier Lane, request for a painted bike or walking path along the 34th Avenue curve, request for police monitoring and additional enforcement of speed limits, and a request for the City to consider making 34th Avenue a cul-de-sac. He stated that 34th Avenue has been designated as a minor collector street between County Road 101 and Zircon Lane for several years. The function of a minor collector is to provide an outlet from the abutting neighborhoods in order to access a higher level street such as County Road 24 or County Road 101. If the City were to change the function of 34th Avenue by making it a cul-de-sac, it would affect other subdivisions such as Amber Woods which developed with the understanding of 34th Avenue being a connecting street to County Road 101. Brad Lance, 18115 34th Avenue North, stated he recently moved to this area. He supported the all -way stop sign to alleviate the sight obstruction problem, but he believes further measures are needed. He said the traffic situation will worsen with the construction of a new high school, and the traffic is already backed up and cutting through the residential areas to avoid congested intersections. Jim Heerey, 18415 34th Avenue North, stated he has lived here for 13 years. The speed and volume of traffic has increased over the years with additional development. He recoimnended that a cul-de-sac or barricades be installed to interrupt the heavy flow of traffic on 34th Avenue. He said that added police patrol and previous stop sign installations have not solved the traffic problems. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 16 Troy Ashton, 18015 34th Avenue North, recently moved to the area. He said there are no trails or sidewalks in the area, and vehicles travel at 40-45 mph. He favors the petition to barricade or cul-de-sac 34th Avenue, Susan Birdsey, 18200 34th Avenue North, asked that the Council seriously consider the requested closing of 34th Avenue. A vehicle drove into her yard last summer and she is concerned for the safety of her two children. Connie Waring, 3405 Ranier Lane North, stated that there are school bus stops at the location where one of the stop signs would be installed. She feels that the stop signs are only the first step in solving this problem. She stated that Boulder Crest has no good access to the trail system and there are no parks in the area. The Amber Woods residents also support this request. Robert Low, 18200 34th Avenue North, stated he had to replace a mailbox on his property that was damaged by a vehicle. He described the current street as straight and wide, then a curve that results in very limited sight distance. Vehicles travel at 40 mph, and there are no sidewalks. Pedestrians must use the street which is a dangerous situation. He believes that the proposed stop sign is not going to solve the problem, and blocking the street would be a reasonable alternative to reduce traffic. He stated that every vehicle that passes his home is going to the Amber Woods area or beyond, and he presented petitions signed by residents in the Boulder Crest and the Amber Woods subdivisions who support a cul-de-sac or barricades on 34th Avenue. Ms. Waring stated that one of the reasons she was advised that the cul-de-sac or street barricade could not be installed is that it would ruin the sense of community that exists. She believes that with the pedestrian/trail connection there is not a problem maintaining a sense of community between the subdivisions. Public Works Director Moore stated he does not believe there is a problem with vehicles cutting through on 34th Avenue. Also, as traffic increases in the future, it will be more difficult to access County Road 101, and that will dissuade traffic cutting through on 34th Avenue. He stated that the majority of vehicle speeding is being done by residents of this area. It is impossible to design a system without any through traffic; however, the City tries various enforcement and signage methods to control through traffic. He explained that Plymouth does not have a sidewalk system. This street system was designed with a low volume of traffic and it is considered safe to walk along the edge of this roadway to get to other residential streets. Councilmember Lymangood asked how residents could request that a sidewalk be added along their street to connect to the trail system. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 17 Director Moore responded that residents could petition for a trail to be added to the Trail Plan at the City's cost, or they could request the sidewalk be installed and that they be assessed for the cost. Councilmember Granath asked if the City has ever blocked off a street as is requested for 34th Avenue. Director Moore stated the Council has the authority and jurisdiction over the roadway. He stated that 15th Avenue near Xenium Lane was dead -ended to provide a separation between the residential and industrial areas. MOTION was made by Councilmember Helliwell, seconded by Mayor Tierney, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-355 INSTALLATION OF ALL -WAY STOP. Councilmember Helliwell stated the Council continually hears complaints about excessive speeding in neighborhoods. She asked if police reserves can issue speeding tickets. Director Gerdes responded no. Councilmember Helliwell suggested that the Council approve a temporary barricade of 34th Avenue until a better solution is found. Also, speeding enforcement should be increased in this area. Mayor Tierney requested that a study session be scheduled to address traffic problems on 34th Avenue, 19th Avenue, and other minor collectors. The Council could consider barricading requests, stop signs, enforcement, sidewalks, other options, and how to pay for safety improvements. Motion carried, seven ayes. Councilmember Edson stated that law enforcement can't completely address the speeding problem, but he would like the public safety department to suggest some things that can be done to improve the situation. He said that people have become conscious of the "real speed limit" which is higher than the actual limit. Perhaps the speed limit needs to be more strictly enforced in residential neighborhoods where there is speeding and safety concerns. He does not believe that barricading streets is the right solution. Regular Council Meeting June 20, 1994 Page 18 ITEM 8-F MNDOT HIGHWAY 12 CORRIDOR ALTERNATIVES AND IMPACT ON FERNDALE ROAD MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-351 MNDOT HIGHWAY 12 CORRIDOR ALTERNATIVES AND IMPACT ON FERNDALE ROAD. Motion carried, seven ayes. ITEM 9-A ADOPTION OF CITY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES AND 1994-95 WORK PLAN MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Edson, to adopt RESOLUTION 94-352 ADOPTION OF CITY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES AND 1994-95 WORK PLAN. Motion carried, seven ayes. MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Morrison, to table the remaining items to the next regular meeting: Item 6-D Adopt an Ordinance directing the City Council to follow general or statutory law when the City Charter is silent; Item 6-I Resolution approving acquisition of Ess Property at I-494 and Schmidt Lake Road, City Project No. 307; Item 6-L Evaluation of Funding and Program Options for Recycling/Yard Waste Program; Item 9-13 Letter from M.C.V. Johnson in Information Memorandum; and Item 9-C Letter from Rick Pruetz in Information Memorandum, Mayor Tierney stated she does not support the motion because it is three weeks until the next regular meeting. MOTION was made by Councihnember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Lymangood, to call the question. Motion to call the question carried, six ayes; Tierney nay. Motion to table remaining items carried; six ayes; Tierney nay. MOTION was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Lyrnangood, to adjourn the meeting at 10:12 p.m. Motion carried, six ayes; Tierney nay. CYy Jerk