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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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