HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 02-26-1999T
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FEBRUARY 26.) 1999
1. COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE.-
NOTE:
CHEDULE.NOTE: Ward 1 Councilmember Tim Bildsoe meets with residents and receives their
comments in the Administration Library, beginning at 6:00 PM before each
Regular Council meeting.
TUESDAY, MARCH 2, 7: OO PM
SATURDAY, MARCH 13,
9:00 AM -3:00 PM
TUESDAY, MARCH 16, 7: 00 PM
2. MONDAY, MARCH], 7:00 PM
3 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 7: 00 PM
4. THURSDAYMARCH4, 7.00PM
5. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10, 7. 00 PM
6 MONDAY, MARCH 15, 7: 00 PM
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING,
Council Chambers
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING ON COUNCIL
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES, (proposed)
The Reserve, 3155 Empire Lane
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING,
Council Chambers
YO UTH A D VISOR Y COUNCIL MEETING
Medicine Lake Room. Agenda is attached. (M-2)
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE,
Medicine Lake Room. Agenda is attached. (M-3)
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION,
Medicine Lake Room. Agenda is attached. (M-4)
PLANNING COMMISSION, Council Chambers
PRAC, Council Chambers
CITY CO UNCIL INFORMATION MEMO Page 2
February 26, 1999
t
7. MONDAY, MARCH 1 S, 7: 00 PM YOUTHADVISORY COUNCIL MEETING
Medicine Lake Room
8. March and April calendars are attached. (M-8)
1. MINUTES
a) Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit January 27 meeting. (I -]q)
b) Park and Recreation Advisory Commission February 11 meeting. (I -1b)
c) Human Rights Commission February 4 meeting. (I -1c)
d) Draft minutes of the Environmental Quality Committee February 10 meeting.
(I -I d)
Z CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS POLICY—CORRESPONDENCE
a) Internet Communications between Jody Kohlenberger and City Engineer Dan
Faulkner regarding traffic problems at various intersections along Vicksburg
Lane. (1--2a)
b) Letter to Council Member Kelli Slavik from resident Dick Pickering regarding
noise level in the area of his home at 3030 Hwy 101. (1--2b)
A status report on the most recent correspondence is attached. (1-2)
3. CORRESPONDENCE
a) Letter to various mayors from League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental
Relations Contact Gary Carlson regarding the legislative proposal to reinstate the
sales tax exemption for local government purchases. (I -3a)
b) Letter from Mayor Tierney to Wayzata High School Principal Dr. Craig Paul
congratulating him on being named Minnesota Principal of the Year. (I --3b)
c) Letter from Mayor Tierney to Hopkins School District Superintendent Dr.
Michael Kremer congratulating him on being named Minnesota Superintendent of
the Year. (1--3c)
d) Letter to Representative Ron Abrams from Manager Dwight Johnson explaining
the City position on proposed legislation relating to shooting ranges. (1--3d)
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO
February 26, 1999
Page 3
e) Letter to Mayor Tierney from Ken Wendinger regarding the meeting with
Hennepin County Park Board officials about the proposed Eagle Lake Regional
Park. (I -3e)
Letter to the Star Tribune Editor with a cover letter to the Plymouth City Council
from William J. Gimble regarding the proposed Eagle Lake Regional Park. (I-3,)
S) Response from Henry Todd Van Dellen to Ed Goldsmith responding to his letter
of February 16 offering to discuss the matter with other representatives on the
House Tax Committee and seek bipartisan co -authorship for bill. (I --3g)
h) Letter from Eric Evenson, District Administrator, Minnehaha Creek Watershed
District regarding City and Watershed District Staff Roundtable Discussion
Friday, March 12, 1999 (I -3h)
4. LEGISLATIVE REPORTS
a) Association of Metropolitan Municipalities Fax February 15 - 19 (I -4a)
b) Association of Metropolitan Municipalities Fax February 22 - 26 (I -4b)
V
Youth Advisory Council
March 1, 1999
Medicine Lake Room, Plymouth City Hall
Agenda
Note: Cable channel 12 will be filming an early portion of the meeting
1. Approval of Minutes of February 1, 1999
2. Driver's license provisions
3. Shadowing of City Officials
4. Music in Plymouth report -Judy Johnson
5. Summer youth concert
6. Topics for next meeting
7. Adjourn
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMI'I"I'L+'L+'
AGENDA MEETING NO. 82
March 03,1999; 7:00 PM
Medicine Lake Room; Upper Level City Hall
Agenda Items:
7:00 PM
Call to Order, Chair: Terry Goodfellow -Heyer
• Review of Agenda
• Approval of Minutes, Meeting No. 81 (Attachment 1)
• Guest Introduction & General Forum:
Guests may address the EQC about any item not contained on the regular agenda. A maximum of 15 minutes is allotted for
the forum. If the full 15 minutes are not needed for the Forum, the EQC will continue with the agenda.
7:15 PM
Up -Dates & Reports:
1. Erosion Control. Darrell Johnson, Sr. Engineering Technician, has prepared the
1998 City of Plymouth Erosion Control which provides a summary of all of the
erosion control related activities during 1998, including the number of violations
and site inspections (Attachment 2).
2. Phosphate Containing Fertilizer Ban
Waiting for a respond from the City attorney's office. Shane Missaghi
7:30 PM
1. EQC's 1999 Annual Plan, What is Ahead?
A quick review of the 1999 annual plan to schedule EQC's activities for the coming months and to
familiarize our new members with the annual plan. Shane Missaghi
2. Lake Associations:
• Schmidt Lake. The association is asking to attend one of the future meeting to discuss their
concerns.
• Mooney Lake. The Mooney Lake association is asking for financial support with water quality
project.
8:45 PM
• New Agenda Items:
1.
2.
3. Next Meeting:
9:00 PM
ADJOURNED
NOTE:
DATEMMAgenda82.doc
(M-4)
Plymouth Human Rights Commission
March 4, 1999
7 p.m.
1. Call to Order.
2. Approve February 4 Minutes.
3. Approve Agenda.
4. Recognize Kathy Lueckert for her service and assistance provided to the Human
Rights Commission.
5. Presentation by Anne Hurlburt, Community Development Director, on the
Involvement of the Human Rights Commission in the Comprehensive Plan
Update.
6. Introductions -- 2 minutes by each member.
7. Reports of Committees:
A. Report on Student Workshop (Manik, Sara, Perssis, Rebecca, Raj it).
B. Report on City Employee Survey (Claudelle, Joan, Mitzi).
C. Report on Dialogue with religious and civic organizations (Joan).
8. Old Business.
A. Report on Affordable Housing Forum on February 23.
9. New Business.
A. Adopt Days of Remembrance Proclamation.
B. Consider New Work Plans.
C. Order T-shirts.
10. Announcements and Articles.
A. City of Plymouth Interpreter List -- for your HRC manual in the
"Contacts" section.
11. Set next meeting -- April
12. Adjourn.
Plymouth: A Neighborhood and Community for All
Plymouth Human Rights Commission
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_ 1
MINUTES
PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT
January 27, 1999
PRESENT Mike Cagley, Barb Roberts and Dennis Jacobson
Councilmember Scott Harstad
Stuart Krahn - LSA Design, Inc.
Representing Metro Transit - Sheri Gingerich
Representing Laidlaw Transit Services, Inc. - Jim Baldwin
Representing the City of Plymouth - John Sweeney
Consultant for Plymouth Metrolink - George Bentley
Committee Secretary - Patty Hillstrom
I. MEETING MINUTES
After introductions the minutes for the December 9, 1998 were approved as amended.
II. RIDERSHIP INFORMATION AND REVIEW OF RIDERSHIP STATISTICS
FOR NOVEMBER, 1998
George Bentley's Comments
Due to some computer conversion problems the statistical data for November and
December has not been received yet.
The following ridership statistics are for 1998:
• System ridership was up 6.1 % over 1997.
• Dial -A -Ride ridership was up by 7% over 1997
• Metrolink (Route 91 & 93 and Route 92) ridership was up 5.1 %
• Route 91 was up by 8.7 % over 1997
• Route 92 was up by 12.6 %
• Route 93 was down by 1.4 %
The week of January 4-8, 1999 showed fifty riders on the Route 93L and the week of
January 11-15 there were 61 riders. The Route 9 1 L had 45 riders the first week and 66
riders the second week. When people know the availability of the later routes there
MINUTES - PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT
January 27, 1999
Page 2
will be increased system ridership overall. The following statistics indicate that
increased ridership is already occurring due to later routes:
• Route 91 showed an increase of 19.5 % over January, 1998 and was up by 4.1 %
over November, 1998.
• Route 93 showed an increase of 9.6% over January, 1998 and is up by 9.9%
over November, 1998.
III. STATUS REPORT ON PLYMOUTH FLYER SERVICE (JIM BALDWIN)
Baldwin referred to the ridership graphs and stated that ridership was slightly down in
December over November due to the two week vacation for school children.
IV. IDENTIFICATION OF AREAS OF CONCERN AND/OR
RECOMMENDATIONS
Barb Roberts' Comments
• Roberts asked Gingerich how often the windows on the buses are washed because it
is hard to see where the bus stop is. Gingerich stated that the buses are washed
every night.
Dennis Jacobson's Comments
• Jacobson commented on the snowy streets and how difficult it was for the buses to
get up some of the hills.
Mike Cagley's Comments
• Cagley observed that the morning buses have started using the bus shoulder lanes
within the last couple of weeks.
• Cagley also noted that sometimes the bus shoulder lane is not quite plowed as well
as the rest of the road. Gingerich stated that MnDOT will not plow the shoulder
lanes until they have cleared all of the road.
• As of this Monday, Cagley's company is participating in the Transit Works
program. Many of the employees are excited and Cagley wonders if this program
will bring more riders.
N:\pw\Enginaring\TRANSITPAC7\MINU7ES\ 1999APACT_ 127. doc
MINUTES - PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT
January 27, 1999
Page 3
V. PRESENTATION BY LSA DESIGN, INC. OF PLANNING FOR
NEIGHBORHOOD STOPS AND PARK AND RIDE LOT PLANS AT OLD
ROCKFORD ROAD AND VICKSBURG LANE AND AT CO. RD. 101 AND
CO. RD. 6
Stuart Krahn, LSA Design, Inc., gave a presentation on the proposed neighborhood
stops and and the new park and ride lots at Old Rockford Road and Vicksburg Lane and
at Co. Rd. 101 and Co. Rd. 6.
Bentley stated that information regarding the proposed neighborhood stop sites,
including what they will look like, and locations will be presented to the public at an
open house at a future date. Questions would be answered and ultimately the proposal
would be submitted to the City Council for their approval.
Additional buses are needed before service can start at the Messiah Methodist Church
park and ride site near Co. Rd. 6 and 101 because riders will not want to transfer to
another bus twice.
VI. STATUS OF 2ND AND 3RD SHIFT REVERSE COMMUTE SERVICE
PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION
George Bentley's Comments
A second and third shift reverse commute service serving primarily the businesses south
of Highway 55 which will begin as early as mid to late March. The service will run
from 3:00 to 11:00 or 11:30 and then accommodate a shift from 11:00 to 7:00 or 7:30.
A grant has been applied for with Access for Jobs (federal program) for $228,000.
This would be a 50150 grant with Plymouth Metrolink matching half of the grant. This
grant would enable buses to run directly from north Minneapolis to Plymouth. This
would be a special reverse commute second and third shift program and funding
provisions have been made in the 1999 Plymouth Metrolink budget.
Other future service plans include buses running from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. and
service for areas like Prudential and Hutchinson Technology in the northern industrial
areas of Plymouth.
VII. STATUS OF ROUTE 91C REROUTE
Ridership is still being evaluated and future route revisions are being considered.
N:\pw\Engineering\TRANSITIPAC WINUIES\1999\PACT_I ?7.doe
MINUTES - PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT
January 27, 1999
Page 4
VIII. STATUS OF MIDDAY SERVICE FROM DOWNTOWN TO PLYMOUTH
The future possibility of running midday service from downtown at 12:00 p.m. and
2:00 p.m. will be looked into.
IX. OTHER COMMENTS
Bentley stated that the job fair has been set for March 11, 1999.
The next PACT meeting will be held on February 24, 1999 at 7:00 p.m. in the
Engineering Conference Room (Hadley Lake Room) on the lower level of the Plymouth
City Hall.
Respectfully,
Patty Hillstrom
Committee Secretary
N:\pw\Engineering\TRANS ITIPAC'r\MINUlES11999\PACT_ 127. doc
Minutes of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting
February 11, 1999
Page 7
Present: Chair Anderson, Commissioners Fiemann, Musliner, Thompson, Wahl, Willegalle,
staff Bisek, Blank and Pederson; Community Development Director Hurlburt;
Councilmember Spigner
Absent: Commissioner Priebe
1. CALL TO ORDER
Vice Chair Wahl called the February meeting to order at 7 p.m.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Commissioner Willegalle and seconded by Commissioner Musliner
to approve the minutes of the January meeting as presented. The motion carried with all
ayes.
3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
a. Athletic Associations. None were present.
b. Staff. Mary stated that Fire and Ice was a success, with near perfect weather. She
thanked those who volunteered. She talked about the power outage at the end of the day.
Mary announced that Rick was officially named the new activity center manager, which
means that we now will need to advertise for a new athletic coordinator to take over his
responsibilities. Commissioner Willegalle asked if Rick would no longer be doing
scheduling of fields. Mary said he will continue in that capacity until the new person is
fully trained. She said that staff is starting to look for summer seasonal people. We are
currently working on summer programs for the next brochure. Baseball/softball
programs were in the February issue. Mary mentioned the E -Connect project, which is
an interactive internet program that puts our recreation brochure out on the internet and
will eventually allow people to register for classes using their computers. It will be a
while before it is available, because there are a number of issues that need to be worked
out. Primavera is coming up on May 14 and 15 and will again be held in this building.
Lots of local artists, high school artists, and local performing groups will be featured.
Mary announced that Karol Greupner is working on her masters program. Her paper is
on the value of special events to the community. Commissioner Musliner asked about
the deadline for submissions to Primavera. Mary said she didn't know. Director Blank
said that the community band has really taken off and is in need of a band director. The
band director from Wayzata High School has applied for the position. They will play at
Music in Plymouth this year. In addition to Music in Plymouth, they will also perform
PRAC Minutes/February 1999
Page 8
another concert in the amphitheater this summer. Mary stated that other smaller groups
are spinning off from the community band, such as a jazz ensemble.
4. PAST COUNCIL ACTION
Council approved the name Gateway Park for the neighborhood park at Schmidt Lake Road
and Vicksburg Lane.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Comprehensive plan update by Anne Hurlburt, Director of Community Development.
Director Hurlburt attended the meeting to discuss the process for updating the city's
comprehensive plan. She explained that comprehensive plans must be updated every 10
years according to state law. A big issue for Plymouth is whether or not to continue to
expand beyond the MUSA (Municipal Urban Service Area). Approximately 3,200 acres
exist outside the MUSA. The city has spent the last year and a half wrestling with that
question. The process involved lots of public participation. In October, the Council
adopted the partial urban expansion alternative. The expanion area is generally limited to
the area east of Vicksburg Lane, with some limited expansion west of Vicksburg along
the Soo Line Railroad and Schmidt Lake Road. This area includes about 1,300 acres and
could develop within the next 20 years. The remaining acres would not be available for
development until after 2020. The Comprehensive Plan will also address other issues,
such as the preservation of wetlands, lakes and woods, and the establishment of
greenways and open space park areas within the urban expansion area. The parks portion
of the comprehensive plan is now 20 years old. Hurlburt explained that a draft overall
comprehensive plan needs to be ready by the end of the year. Since October, the city has
been working with consultants. Hurlburt said that next week the Council is getting the
recommendation that SRF be hired to help finish all the plans and pull everything
together. She stated that currently there is a moratorium on new development in this area
until everything has been ironed out. She handed out drafts of the overall schedule for
updating the comp plan, as well as meetings on the calendar, lists of tasks, key dates for
public meetings, a summary of major events, etc. The first major meeting is March 31,
when the Planning Commission and City Council will hold a joint meeting to discuss
overall goals and policies for major elements of the comprehensive plan. PRAC will be
invited. Hurlburt hopes that PRAC can discuss some of these things prior to that
meeting. Element 6 (Parks, Open Space and Trails Element) is crucial for PRAC. This
schedule will take us to the point of having the plan all in one piece by October,
explained Hurlburt. Adoption of the comprehensive plan is scheduled for March, 2000.
There will be some nights during the next several months when the Planning Commission
and PRAC will all have to meet together. At the March meeting, the consultant Barry
Warner, from SRF, will make a presentation. Neither the 11th or the 18th will work for
Director Blank or Mr. Warner, so the 15th and 17th are being considered. Commisioner
Fiemann asked about the city's policy of putting bike paths along major roads. Director
Blank said the update of the comprehensive plan will address the issue of putting
sidewalk on both sides of the road on some major roads. The comprehensive plan is for
PRAC Minutes/February 1999
Page 9
the entire city of Plymouth, Hurlburt explained, not just northwest Plymouth.
Commissioner Willegalle said by the year 2025, 25% of the population will be over age
65. We are now seeing a trend toward different styles of housing. There aren't as many
large homes on large lots being built. Commissioner Fiemann asked if Vicksburg would
eventually be a four lane road. Director Hulburt said most likely it will, all the way to
Maple Grove. The Interstate will continue to become more congested, so Vicksburg will
be an alternate route. Commissioner Willegalle asked about the surface water plan.
Hurlburt said the City Council did approve the surface water plan and that it was to be
implemented in the year 2000. She said that approval of the capital improvements budget
will dictate when the surface water plan takes effect, but that it is a small part of the
overall plan. She informed Commissioner Willegalle that if he needed more specific
information on the surface water plan, he should get in touch with Dan Faulkner in the
Engineering Department.
Chair Anderson introduced the new Council liaison Saundra Spigner. She stated that she
really is looking forward to working with PRAC. Chair Anderson thanked Director
Hurlburt for her presentation. Director Blank explained the exercise the consultant asked
PRAC to do, a brainstorming session of items they think are important to put in the
comprehensive plan. Commissioner Thompson said sports fields, Commissioner
Willegalle said open space and preservation of golf courses, Commissioner Wahl said
trails in northwest Plymouth and the Elm Creek Watershed, Chair Anderson said open
space and golf courses, Commissioner Fiemann said trails connecting key points,
Commissioner Musliner said neighborhood parks in northwest Plymouth and updating
play equipment. Councilmember Spigner said she is concerned about neighborhoods that
don't have parks and they somehow need to be connected by trials to existing
neighborhood parks. Commissioner Wahl suggested calling it retro -planning.
Commissioner Willegalle stated that it's important to have trails that connect east to west
and north to south, so that people can get across town safely. Director Blank said he had
received a call from the Plum Tree Development saying their private park, put in by
Lundgren Bros., is useless and they want a city park. He also said the current
comprehensive plan prohibits putting tennis courts in neighborhood parks and that
perhaps this issue needs to be reconsidered. He gets calls from people wanting tennis
courts in their neighborhood park. Because they take up so much space, Commissioner
Willegalle said the City has been putting tennis courts in where there's room, which tends
to be in playfields. The activity center was added to the list, along with other facilities
like skateboard parks, disc golf, dog park, etc. Mary suggested calling these special use
parks. Commissioners then were asked to look over the entire list and pick their top
three. These individual lists will be compiled by staff, put in order by most popular to
least, and redistributed to PRAC.
b. Activity center, fieldhouse update. Director Blank stated that the Planning Commission
held a public hearing two weeks ago on the activity center/fieldhouse. Two people spoke
at the public hearing. One was Commissioner Willegalle and the other was Fred Lips,
PRAC Minutes/February 1999
Page 10
one of our volunteer gardeners, who asked about the intersection of 34th Avenue and
Fernbrook Lane and whether or not a stoplight would be installed there. Director Blank
explained that the two new office highrise buildings going in there have dictated that
there will be a stoplight at this intersection. He indicated that the site plan approval is on
the Council agenda for next week, and then we will go back to the city council for
authorization to bid in late March or early April. We hope to break ground in May. Rick
Busch will be the manager of the facility. Part of his duties will be the overall
coordination of athletic associations' use of the fieldhouse. Del Erickson may be at the
next meeting to discuss a number of things. There was some discussion then about
whether or not a PRAC member should attend the Council meeting next week.
Councilmember Spigner said a letter of support would probably be sufficient. Director
Blank said two surfaces for the dome are being bid. The less expensive surface is the
aggregate system. It plays like regular grass and doesn't cause turf burns.
c. Approve annual report and work plan. COMMISSIONER WAHL MOVED TO
APPROVE THE 1999 WORK PLAN AND ANNUAL REPORT AS PRESENTED.
THE MOTION WAS SECONDED BY CHAIR ANDERSON. MOTION CARRIED
WITH ALL AYES. Councilmember Spigner asked what PRAC wants in terms of golf
courses. Director Blank said the goal is to protect for the long term the existing golf
courses. Councilmember Spigner asked if the City lost one, would PRAC support
building one? Commissioner Willegalle said PRAC's current strategy is to protect the
three we now have. Director Blank said the three existing courses are 18 holes, while the
two new proposals are for nine holes and will be geared to seniors and families with
children, etc. They appeal to different clientele, he explained. Commissioner Fiemann
asked if citizens are supposed to make comments to the Council regarding the golf course
Hennepin Parks is proposing. Councilmember Spigner said that comments to the Council
are welcome.
6. NEW BUSINESS
a. Approve 1999 park facility rental policies and fees. There are nine policies this year.
Director Blank explained the changes that have been proposed. Large groups of over 125
may require the presence of a police officer when renting the performance stages. Under
the Parkers Lake stage, portable stage and amphitheater policies, the clause about lewd or
obscene lyrics and behavior should be removed from the policy according to the city
attorney, because you cannot prohibit free speech. Director Blank thinks we should
strike the clause, because if push came to shove, we would lose on that issue. The
showmobile policy has a statement that says the City can refuse to rent it if we feel it will
be used in an unsafe or hazardous way or if the event isn't considered to be in the best
interest of the city. Commissioner Musliner suggested changing the wording to better
reflect the intent. She felt we should end the sentence after the words "hazardous to the
showmobile or its operators." COMMISSIONER WILLEGALLE MOVED TO
APPROVE RENTAL FEES WITH CHANGES AS PROPOSED; SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER MUSLINER. Councilmember Spigner asked about fees for the
PRAC Minutes/February 1999
Page 11
showmobile, what they were last year, how we compare to other cities, and who rented
the showmobile. Director Blank stated the fees are the same as last year and that we are
higher than other communities. He said the Wayzata High School, a church, and the city
of Richfield rented it. The motion was then voted on and carried with all ayes.
Commissioner Willegalle asked if there was a policy regarding the picnic shelters down
by the lake. He knows they are first come, first serve, but there was a problem last
summer during the History Fest, when a group showed up and wouldn't leave, even
though the History Fest was a city run event and had plans to use that shelter. Director
Blank said he and Mary would look into that and try to come up with some kind of policy
that would address the city having priority use of the shelter during city sponsored events.
b. Discuss names for activity center and fieldhouse. The Youth Advisory Council has
suggested the name Plymouth Pavilions. Director Blank pointed out that the name
Pavilion is already attached to the Parkers Lake building and will also be used for the
future Medicine Lake bath house. Commissioner Wahl said he didn't like that name for
the activity center/fieldhouse, because it reminded him more of an outdoor band shell.
Commissioner Musliner suggested Plymouth Community Center and Sports Dome.
Councilmember Spigner suggested that PRAC consider holding a contest asking the
public to help name the complex. Chair Anderson said that was a possibility.
Commissioner Willegalle asked who would judge the names. Councilmember Spigner
said PRAC would decide. She felt by giving the community an opportunity to buy in, it
might make them feel better about the facility.
7. COMMISSION PRESENTATION
None
8. STAFF COMMUNICATION
Staff will try to schedule the next meeting for March 15, which is a Monday, because
Director Blank is out of town on the 11th.
9. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
(I-10
Plymouth Human Rights Commission
February 4, 1999
Minutes
Commissioners
Present Excused Absent
Jennifer Butler
%0
Claudelle Carruthers
%00
Manik Chhabra
Raj it Chakravarty
Sara Frailich
Jackie Fraedrich
Mitzi Heath
Lisa Hunter
Patricia Izek
v
Joan Jensen
Art Johnson
Rebecca Malinsky
Perssis Meshkat
Ruth Ruffin
v
Becky Wheeler
Also present: Saundra Spigner, Council Coordinating Representative; Laurie Ahrens,
City Clerk.
Call to Order
Ruth Ruffin called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.m.
Approve Agenda
The agenda was approved by unanimous consent.
Presentation by Jim Gambone
Claudelle Carruthers introduced Jim Gambone, speaker and author on intergenerational
issues. Mr. Gambone explained that his work involves bringing America's five
generations together to discuss and address difficult issues. He has conducted 76
intergenerational dialogues around the country in the past six years, and much of his work
has been done in communities dealing with a disaster. His process involves gathering a
diverse group of people, including all five generations, to work together for one full day
to form an agenda for action on a particular issue. Mr. Gambone and Claudelle
Carruthers explained that they are exploring the possibility of doing a one-hour cable TV
show that would explain this multi -generational process and would briefly explore a
topic, such as the Human Rights Commission theme, using this process. Claudelle
informed the HRC that she would return with a work plan proposal if the project
progresses.
Minutes
February 4, 1999
Page 2
Minutes
Motion was made by Ruth Ruffin, seconded by Joan Jensen, to approve the minutes of
the January 7 meeting. The motion was adopted by unanimous vote.
Armstrong Videotape
Sara Frailich introduced the videotape done by Armstrong High School. The HRC
viewed and briefly discussed the videotape.
Proposed Student Workshop
Motion was made by Sara Frailich, seconded by Raj it Chakravarty, to authorize a
subcommittee comprised of Manik Chhabra, Raj it Chakravarty, Rebecca Malinsky,
Perssis Meshkat, and Sara Frailich to plan and carry out a human rights workshop
sponsored by the Plymouth Human Rights Commission. The motion was adopted by
unanimous vote.
Report on City Employee Survey
Joan Jensen reported that this Committee has met with administrative staff and the Police
Chief to gather information about the City employee survey. The Committee is currently
working on issues related to the sampling frame. She said that the City Council may
consider conducting a Community Survey in the future, and it may be possible to add
questions to that survey as an alternative to conducting a separate survey.
Report on Human Rights Award Presentation
Rebecca Malinsky reported that she will contact the recipient of the Annual Human
Rights Award to invite her to an upcoming Council meeting to accept the award.
Final Report on Human Rights Commission Manual
City Clerk Laurie Ahrens gave a final report on the project to establish a Human Rights
Commission Manual. Manuals were distributed to all members and members were
requested to submit changes which will be incorporated into future updates.
Final Report on 1998 Essay Contest
Joan Jensen submitted a final report on the 1998 Essay Contest.
Regional Human Rights Meeting
City Clerk Ahrens reported that Patricia Izek, Jackie Fraedrich, Kathy Lueckert, and
Laurie Ahrens had attended the Regional Human Rights Meeting in Brooklyn Center on
January 28.
Minutes
February 4, 1999
Page 3
ByLaws
Motion was made by Ruth Ruffin, seconded by Joan Jensen, to direct staff to place on a
future HRC agenda the review and update of the Human Rights Commission ByLaws.
The motion was adopted by unanimous vote.
Approve New Work Plans
Motion was made by Ruth Ruffin, seconded by Mitzi Heath, to approve the following
new work plans:
1) Discussion groups and dialogue within Plymouth religious communities and civic
organizations (Joan Jensen)
2) 1999 Essay Contest (Joan Jensen)
3) Fire and Ice participation (Becky Wheeler)
4) Plymouth History Fest/Old Fashioned Christmas/Plymouth Historical Society (Becky
Wheeler)
5) Informational Community Meetings on human rights issues (Ruth Ruffin)
6) National Night Out Activity (Ruth Ruffin)
7) Schedule meeting to gather information for 2000 Work Plan (Becky Wheeler)
8) Participate in Plymouth on Parade (Ruth Ruffin)
9) Make a Difference Day (Becky Wheeler)
The responsible person for each work plan is indicated; however, it was noted that most
of the projects will require a committee or involvement from several members. The
motion was adopted by unanimous vote.
Commissioners thanked Becky Wheeler for developing the work plan concept and
assisting with scheduling and planning.
Ruth Ruffin said that she and Mitzi Heath have established a committee responsible for
general HRC activities: Hate/Bias Crime Program -- Mitzi Heath; Plymouth activities --
Ruth Ruffin; Publicity -- Claudelle Carruthers; and Community Education -- Becky
Wheeler.
Fire and Ice Festival
Ruth Ruffin explained that the HRC has been asked to conduct an interview on cable TV
with a visiting choir at the Fire and Ice Festival. Sara Frailich and Raj it Chakravarty
volunteered to conduct the interview. It was noted that six commissioners are scheduled
to volunteer time at the Fire and Ice Festival event on February 6.
Lisa Hunter
Lisa Hunter and Jennifer Butler were welcomed to the HRC. At the beginning of the next
meeting, each member will give a two -minute background about themselves.
Minutes
February 4, 1999
Page 4
Motion was made by Ruth Ruffin, seconded by Claudelle Carruthers, to adjourn the
meeting at 9:05 p.m. The motion passed by unanimous vote.
Next meeting: Thursday, March 4,1999 7:00 p.m. ,
4
DRAFT
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE
MINUTES — MEETING No. 81
Tuesday, February 10, 1999,7:00 p.m.
a4d)
Members Present: David Shea, Kathy Marshall, Warren Tuel, Karon Haht, Charles Woodruff, Connie Fortin
Members Absent: Terry Goodfellow -Heyer
Others/Staff Ginney Black, City Council Representative
Present: Shane Missaghi, Staff
Sandra M. Walline, Volunteer Secretary
Barb Sennes, Planning Department
Joy Tierney, Mayor
Guests: Sally Strand, Bass Lake Association
DRAFT
Call to Order: It was the general consensus of the Committee that Mr. Shea act as chairperson for this meeting in the
absence of Ms. Goodfellow -Heyer. Mr. Shea called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. asking if there were
any additions to be made to the agenda.
Mr. Missaghi asked that the topic "Letter of Support" be added to the agenda.
Ms. Black asked that "Schmidt Lake Issues" be added to the agenda.
Introductions: Mr. Missaghi introduced Ms. Sennes indicating that it might be prudent to have Ms. Sennes make her
presentation prior to the actual meeting.
Mayor Tierney was introduced as a special guest. Mayor Tierney thanked the Environmental Quality
Committee for their diligent efforts. She also welcomed the new members of the committee, Connie Fortin
and Karon Haht.
Northwest Plymouth:
Ms. Sennes briefed the Committee on the current developmental status of Northwest Plymouth. She also
distributed Meeting and Project Schedules. It was pointed out that on March 3151 the meeting would be
open to the public. Ms. Sennes was commended for her detailed presentation.
Approval of Minutes:
It was moved by Ms. Marshall, seconded by Mr. Woodruff and unanimously agreed that the minutes of
January 12, 1999 be approved.
1999 Work Plan:
Mr. Missaghi announced that the Work Plan had been approved by the City Council.
PBEP:
A focus group of the Plymouth Business Environmental Partnership will be meeting February 23`d to hear
Kris Hageman, Plymouth Solid Waste Coordinator. It is apparent that this and other focus groups have
developed a heightened interest in water conservation.
Fertilizer Ban:
Mr. Missaghi brought the Committee up to date on the status of the Draft Fertilizer Ban Ordinance
currently under review by the City Attorney. Ms. Black indicated that the ordinance might be put into
effect as early as April 1999.
Ms. Marshall moved, it was seconded by Mr. Woodruff, and unanimously approved by the Committee that
Ms. Black contact the City Attorney before the City Council Meeting of March 10h.
Environmental Fair:
Ms. Marshall informed the Committee that the theme for this year's fair would be "Habitat" and that the
fair would be held at Gleason Lake Elementary School. She further stated that she would attend a
developmental meeting regarding the fair on February l I*. Details of that meeting will be presented at the
March EQC meeting.
Management Plan:
It was discussed by Mr. Missaghi that the plan had been sent to all four watersheds for their review and that
responses to these reviews are expected before the end of the month. It was further stated by Mr. Missaghi
Page 1 of 2
that the Metropolitan Council had not yet responded to the plan and that studies are under way. Mr.
Missaghi was asked to resend the Schmidt Lake portion of the plan to Ms. Fortin.
Election of Officers: It was moved by Mr. Tuel, seconded by Mr. Woodruff and unanimously approved by the Committee that
Terry Goodfellow -Heyer be elected as Chairman and Ms. Kathy Marshall be elected a Vice Chairman of
the Environmental Quality Committee for the current term.
Copies of Minutes: Ms. Strand asked to be added to the mailing list for the Environmental Quality Committee. It was pointed
out to Ms. Strand that minutes of all city meetings are available for public review during normal business
hours of the City Hall. While guests are encouraged to attend all city meetings, they are discouraged from
taking on the activities or responsibilities of the Committees and their members.
Shoreland Volunteers: Ms. Fortin pointed out that there would be a Shoreland Volunteer Workshop held on April 3rd from 9:00 am
to 2:00 pm.
Letter of Support: The city is in process of applying for a grant from DNR to develop a comprehensive wetland management
plan for the Fernbrook Wetland Area. As part of the application, it would be very helpful to have a letter of
support from an advisory committee such as EQC. Ms. Marshall moved, it was seconded by Mr.
Woodruff, and unanimously agreed by the Committee that Mr. Missaghi be asked to write a letter of
support to DNR on behalf of EQC, as part of the grant application.
Adjournment: It was decided that two key items for the March meeting would be Water Plan funding and the 1999 Work
Plan. The next meeting will be held on March 03, 1999, and on the first Wed. of each month there after.
It was moved by Ms. Marshall, seconded by Mr. Woodruff and unanimously approved by the Committee
that the meeting adjourn at 9:10 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Sandra M. Walline
\\PLY NT\ntdiskl\pw\Engineering\WTRQLTY\MINUTES\1999\MinNo8l.doc
Page 2 of 2
(1-Za)
Jean Lyons
From:
Jody_Kohlenberger*cargill.com
Sent:
Monday, February 22, 199911:11 AM
To:
DFaulkne@ci.plymouth.mn.us
Cc:
JLyons@ci.plymouth.mn.us; FMoore@ci.plymouth.mn.us; Jody_Kohlenberger@cargill.com
Subject:
RE: Traffic Concern
I am VERY impressed with the City of Plymouth. I didn't know if my
suggestions would get a response, but I thought I would give it a try
anyhow. I "used" to live in Plymouth and miss it a lot (someday I'll
move back!)
Thank you so much for your fast response. Its nice to know that
'someday' these two problems might be resolved.
Reply Separator
Subject: RE: Traffic Concern
Author: DFaulkne (DFaulkne@ci.plymouth.mn.us) at hdqt-unix-mime
Date: 2/22/9910:57 AM
The City is aware of the traffic problem at the intersection of Vicksburg
Lane and Rockford Road(Co Rd 9) and the County has also checked the
warrants(this includes accidents, delays,volumes of traffic, etc.) for a
traffic signal installation and warrants are met. In discussing a traffic
signal installation at this intersection with the County, it is now necessary
to get a project budgeted for this work, the cost of which will be borne by
both the City and County. This budgeting work is currently underway and I am
anticipating project initiation later this year including plan preparation
early next year and installation in the summer of year 2000. Please
understand that this is all subject to City Council and County Board approval
but I understand the need for this work as soon as possible.
Your other concern on Vicksburg Lane at Co Rd 6 is one that I have heard of
but have not yet personally witnessed. I will make a point to do so soon and
consider your suggestion of installing a "Right Lane Must Turn Right" sign
along with the necessary pavement markings for the southbound curb lane
traffic approaching Co Rd 6.
Thanks for your interest and contact me directly if you have any further
questions or concerns. My phone number is 509-5520.
-----Original Message -----
From: Internet Contact
Sent: Monday, February 22, 1999 9:04 AM
To: Dan Faulkner
Cc: Fred Moore
Subject: FW: Traffic Concern
Dan -
This e-mail arrived via our Web site. I have acknowledged the e-mail
stating that you or someone from the Engineering Division will be getting
back to her. Please copy me on any response. Thanks.
Jean
-----Original Message -----
From: Jody_Kohlenberger@cargill.com
[mailto:Jody_Kohlenberger@cargill.com]
Sent: Friday, February 19, 1999 3:26 PM
To: contact@ ci.plymouth.mn.us
Subject: Traffic Concern
Is there any plan on having a traffic signal installed at Vicksburg
and Rockford Road? That intersection is becoming more and more a
problem especially at rush hour.
Also: Is there any plans to have a sign installed at the southbound
intersection of Vicksburg and CR 6 that says. "Right Lane Must Turn
Right".
I have been a witness to many 'road rages' over this area at rush hour
between 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. monday-friday. People go into the right lane
and then cross over on CR 6 and try to squeeze inbetween cars in the
left lane when it merges to one lane. You should have someone sit
there and watch it. I like it that there is the same sign going
north on Vicksburg at the old rockford Road by the Plymouth Covenant
Church. The same sign should be at southbound vicksburg and CR 6.
send response to jody_kohlenberger@cargill.com
FROM GRAY PLANT MOOTY MOOTY
Date: February 25,1999
(THU) 2. 25' 99 15:51/ST. 15: (I -2b)
(TRAY, PLANT, Mo(fry, Mo o1 Y & BENNETT, T.A.
ATTORNFYS AT T.A u
:1400 CITY CENTER
33 SOUTH SlfT;; STRF;�;'i'
M1WNr'.AP0US, MN 5141;2.37516
612 :,41-2800
FAX: 612 333.0066
VO10ErrTY: 612 34:1-21993
Receiver's Direct Line Number: 612-509.5051
Please deliver to: Dwight Johnson
Firm.
From: Kelli Slavik
No. of pages including cover: 2
location:
CONSULTING OMM, REUING Q11JV I
3307A 11 NG GUANCr CENTRE, NU IIA LOU,
CWOYANG Dn%rjucT, BEIJING 100n20, CHINA
8610-6301 3388 ExT. 33079
FAx; 8610-6501-5186
Fax Number: 612-509-5060
Direct Dial: 612/343-2808
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1F YOU DO NOT RECEIVE ALI, PAGES, PLEASE CALL (612)343-3953
Original Document be sent by regular mail.
C-OMMENTS:
The information contained in this facsimile message may contain uttorney privileged
and confidential information intended for the use of the individual or entity named,
above. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or
agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any
dissemination, distribution or copying ofthis communication i.v strictly prohibited If
you have received this fax in error, please immediately nut i' trs by telephone, and
return the original message to us at the above address via the ISS. postal service.
FROM GRAY PLANT MOOTY MOOTY
(THU) 2. 25' 99 15:52/ST. 15:51/NO. 4261011306 P 2
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LMC
.league of Minnesota Cities
Ofies promofin9 excell//ence
February 22, 1999
The Honorable Warren Limmer
State Senator
127 State Office Building
St. Paul, MN 55155
Dear Senator Limmer:
145 University Avenue West, St. Paul, MN 55103-2044
Phone: (651) 281-1200 - (800) 925-1122
Fax: (651) 281-1299 - TDD (651) 281-1290
Thank you for co -authorship of S.F. 264 with Senators Ourada, Lesewski and Scheid that
would reinstate the sales tax exemption for local government purchases. The League of
Minnesota Cities has been pursuing a re -exemption of local government purchases from the
sales tax for the last three years. Your bill would save cities, counties and townships an
estimated $80 million per year in sales tax costs that ultimately results in higher property
taxes and user fees.
The sales tax on local government purchases was extended by the 1992 Legislature, at a time
when the state was experiencing severe budget shortfalls. Given the state's current budget
status, we feel that this tax is no longer needed.
Again, thank you for your support of this important initiative for cities and other local units of
government. Please let me know when you schedule a hearing on the bill. The League would
appreciate the opportunity to testify in support of your bill.
Sincerely,
9* C40A-111
Gary Carlson, Director
Intergovernmental Relations
GC:dlm
Cc: Mayor Joy Tierney, Plymouth
Mayor Steve Scharber, Rogers
Mayor Steven Boynton, Champlin
Mayor Robert Burlingame, Maple Grove
Mayor Ken Guenthner, Corcoran
Mayor Donald Kjonaas, Dayton
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER
a -3b)
,i
r�
CITY OF
PLYMOUTH+
February 22, 1999
Dr. Craig Paul
Wayzata High School
4955 Peony Lane North
Plymouth, Minnesota 55446
Dear Dr. Paul,
The Plymouth City Council joins me in congratulating you on being named
Minnesota Principal of the Year. This is quite an honor! Your leadership and efforts
have made Wayzata High School one of the premier high schools in the state. You have
successfully managed two huge transitions --the new building and different schedules—
and have had a positive impact on Wayzata High students.
Again, congratulations! We are most proud to claim you as part of the Plymouth
community.
Sincerely,
�at�fifwuq�"
Joy Tierney
Mayor of Plymouth
PLYMOUTH A Beautifu(P(ace To Live
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 - TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000
www.dPIvmouth.mn.us
w_
CITY OF
PLYMOUTR
February 22, 1999
Dr. Michael L. Kremer
Superintendent
Hopkins District 270
1001 Highway 7
Hopkins, Minnesota 55305
Dear Dr. Kremer,
The Plymouth City Council joins me in congratulating you on being names 1999
Minnesota Superintendent of the Year. This is quite an honor! The Hopkins School
District is one of the premier districts in the state, due in large part to your efforts and
leadership.
Again, congratulations. We are most proud to have you as part of the Plymouth
community.
Sincerely,
fo WAI X,
Joy Tierney
Mayor of Plymouth
PLYMOUTH A Beautifu(P(ace To Live
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 - TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000
®"W«.vMR. www.d.plymouth.mmus
CITY OF
PLYMOUTR
February 23, 1999
Repesentative Ron Abrams
Room 209 State Office Building
St. Paul, MN 55155
(I -3d)
SUBJECT: Proposed Bills Relating to Shooting Ranges (HF 619, HF 650, &
HF 70 7)
Dear Representative Abrams:
The City of Plymouth has reviewed the three subject bills which would exempt shooting
ranges from local zoning and nuisance regulations, and would exempt owners of shooting
ranges from liability for civil and criminal actions. We understand that these bills may be
heard by the Local Government Affairs Committee as early as March 3, 1999. We have
several concerns relating to such legislation.
The City of Plymouth is not opposed to the operation of shooting ranges. We presently
have a shooting range operating within our City. We are, however, opposed to legislation
that would impede our ability to effectively manage this use, especially in an urbanized
setting where such a use has the potential of impacting a large number of residents.
We believe enactment of these bills would be bad for Plymouth and bad for Minnesota.
Giving preferential treatment to one type of land use would severely undermine the
fundamental purposes of zoning and nuisance regulations, which are to protect the quality
of life for residents and to protect landowners and the enjoyment and value of their
property.
Support for this bill appears to be largely from greater Minnesota. While we do not
support undermining local authority anywhere, we are particularly concerned about how
this legislation would affect cities in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area that are
undergoing growth and change. The proposed legislation would severely limit a city's
authority to regulate the uses within its jurisdiction in the future in the furtherance of
protecting the health, safety, and general welfare of the community.
PLYMOUTH A Beauti (Pface ?o Live
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000
www.dol moutl]_mn_Us
February 23, 1999
Page 2
We believe that the regulation of shooting ranges is best left to the individual cities where
such shooting ranges are located. I urge you to vote against these bills should they come
up for a house vote. Thank you for your consideration of this important issue.
Sincerely,
�a?40p,--
Dwight Johnson
City Manager
Copy: Plymouth Mayor and City Council
Representatives Leppik, Stanek, and Van Dellen
DJ:sbd
"_ I
Ken Wendinger
5465 Orleans Ln #1
Plymouth, MN 55442
(612) 550-1028
February 17,1999
Dear Mayor Tierney:
,- 3e)
The way the 5:30 PM Council informational meeting was conducted last
evening left many of us very frustrated. I find it hard to understand how
one party is allowed to have about 45 minutes to present their side of the
story and the other party has less than two minutes. If you or I were taken
to court because we were accused of taking a large bribe and had no
opportunity to tell our story, we would be irate for being treated so
unjustly. The same applies to Plymouth residents who want to discuss
issues with their elected representatives.
We feel that developers or large organizations like the Park Board have
more access to the Council than citizens do. I think the system is seriously
flawed because it insulates you from the needs of the people you
represent. I understand that you cannot take input for hours and hours on
every topic. A more equitable solution might be to give each party an
equal amount of time whether it is 5 or 10 or 30 minutes. I request that
citizen access to the City Council be discussed at a meeting in the near
future.
Several years ago you were elected as one of the "Clean Team" with a
strong environmental platform. Plymouth has made many improvements
to clean up its environmental act. But it has a ways to go. Citizens have
sent a strong message to preserve our natural resources. The fact that
74% of those that sent letters or signed a petition opposed the golf course
should indicate how deep that feeling runs. When you have the Sierra club
and three Audubon chapters going on record as opposing the golf course,
doesn't that carry any weight?
I would like to discuss these issues with you in the near future, Let me
know what days and times you are available to talk by phone. Thank you
for this courtesy.
Sincerely,
Ken endinger
5405 Orleans Ln N - #1
Plymouth MN 55442
February 22, 1999
Editorial Department
Star & Tribune
425 Portland Ave S
Minneapolis MN 55488
A Giant Faux Pas by our Hennepin Parks
In the 1970's our Hennepin P
lying roughly between Eagle
imposed mandate for future '
1998 citizenry in Plymouth a
that the 'development' time
includes razing, destroying,
land to accommodate a 9 -hole
this flan, a plan the Parks
formulate, were left with on
Christmas holidays to try an
Incredibly, Hennepin Parks c
of its -own brochures (dated
are already seven 18 -hole gc
to seven miles of the propos
golf course. Not to mention
irks system acquireG z.su acres,
end Pike Lakes, with a self-
ievelopment'. In mid-December
id Maple Grove were informed
iad arrived. This 'development'
and altering 92+ acres of pristine
golf course. People opposing
lad months, probably years to
Ly a couple of weeks after the
3 mobilize any opposition.
ame out with statistics in one
2-11-99) stating that there
Lfing facilities within five
ad Eagle Lake Regional Park
a 9 -hole course called Begin
Oaks appro::imately a mile and a half from the Eagle Park
site in the final planning stages. There is much more in
Hennepin Parks thick, spin doctor brochure of 2-11-99 that
contains half truths, misinformation and propaganda that
the Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District is jamming
down the taxpayers' throats.
This is not private land at stake. It is our land --our
trust --that we have entrusted to a public funded entity
to use and utilize for the good of all the citizenry ip
the'county. This is blackmail of the highest degree, and
they are getting by with it. Everyone in Hennepin County,
golfers and nongolfers alike, should be totally outraged.
William J. Cimble
cc: Plymouth City Council
Henry Todd Van Dellen
State Representative
District 34B
Hennepin County
(1-sg)
Minnesota
- House of
p:} Representatives
COMMITTEES: TAXES, SALES AND INCOME TAX DIVISION; ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND INSURANCE; RULES AND LEGISLATIVE ADMINISTRATION
February 23, 1999
Mr. Edward J. Goldsmith
HRA Supervisor
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447-1482
Dear Mr. Goldsmith:
To respond to your February 16' letter, I will be happy to discuss the matter with other
representatives on the House Tax Committee and seek to find bipartisan co -authorship for such a
bill. Please contact me if you have further comments or suggestions. I will be back in contact
with you after discussing this matter with other representatives.
Sincerely,
H uy Todd V�KDellen
State Rem eKtative
HTVD/pc
Cc: Mayor Joy Tierney
Council Member Tim Bildsoe
Council Member Judy Johnson
Representative Ron Abrams
Representative Peggy Leppik
Representative Richard Stanek
Senator Gen Olson
Senator Martha Robertson
Senator Warren Limmer
City Manager Dwight Johnson
Community Development Dir. Anne Hulburt
14615 - 43rd Ave. North, Plymouth, Minnesota 55446 (612) 553-9088
291 State Office Building, 100 Constitution Ave., St. Paul, Minnesota 55155-1298 (612) 296-5511
n' FAX (612) 296-3949 TDD (612) 296-9896
$ _
Gray Freshwater Center
Hwys.15 & 19, Navarre
2500 Shadywood Road
Excelsior, MN 55331-9578
Phone: (612) 471-0590
Fax: (612) 471-0682
admin@minnehahacreek.org
Web Site:
www.minnehahacreek.org
Board of Managers
Pamela G. Blixt
James Calkins
Lance Fisher
Monica Gross
Thomas W. LaBounty
Thomas Maple, Jr.
Malcolm Reid
Printed on recycled paper containing
at least 30% post consumer waste.
a -3h)
Minnehaha Creek Watershed District
Improving Quality of Water, Quality of Life
DATE: February 23, 1999
TO: City Managers/Administrators & Public Works Directors
FROM: Eric Evenson, District Administrator, Minnehaha Creek
Watershed District
RE: City & Watershed District Staff Roundtable
The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) would like to invite you to
a City and Watershed District Staff Roundtable Discussion on:
Friday, March 12.1999 from 12:00-4:30
at the Gray Freshwater Center in Navarre.
Lunch will be provided — Please RSVP to Sandy at 471-6290.
(an agenda and map are enclosed)
We would like to use this roundtable discussion to find ways that we can work
together to meet our respective water management goals. We would also
like to use this opportunity to identify possible short term and long term goals
that cities would like the District to pursue.
We hope that this roundtable can begin a long-term dialogue to find ways that
we can work together to build on our respective strengths, meet our statutory
responsibilities, and increase the effectiveness, efficiency, and
responsiveness of our programs.
CArouncitable discussion.doc
.Minnehaha Creek Watershed District
City and Watershed District Staff Roundtable Discussion
Agenda
Objectives:
✓ Understand the role of the MCWD under past/present conditions.
✓ Provide an understanding of current and long range plans of the MCWD.
✓ Gather input from participants on:
- the role of the MCWD
- observations on MCWD priorities
- expectations of the MCWD, cities, and related agencies.
Methodology:
30-45 minutes Welcome, lunch, and MCWD overview - District Staff and Engineer
- Statutory responsibility and background of the MCWD.
- On-going District projects and programs.
- Emerging issues and concerns.
To 120 minutes Small group (4-6) discussion — Meeting Facilitator.
Possible discussion items:
- Funding: How and which projects should the MCWD fund (e.g. fund on a
watershed, sub -watershed basis, or by a water utility; cost -share with cities;
etc.)?
Phosphorous reduction: What is the District's role in providing structural
fixes, research, education, regulatory framework, etc.? What are some of the
alternatives to a one -size fits all approach?
- Coordination: What are some of the ways cities and the District can work
together to accomplish common goals (e.g. water quality protection,
legislation, education, recreation, etc.)?
- Life after second -generation plans: As required by the State, what are some
of the ways the District can monitor compliance with its watershed plan?
- Gaps: What are some of the water management or natural resource
protection issues in the watershed that are not being addressed or that
should be addressed on a watershed basis?
10-15 minutes Report on small group discussion — Meeting Facilitator.
30-45 minutes Discussion on top (5-7) items — Meeting Facilitator
(summary reports will be recorded and posted)
30-45 minutes Discussion of results and wrap-up
P. S. If there is sufficient interest, after the meeting we will adjourn to a social hour.
C:\roundtable discussion.doc
MAP TO MINNEHAHA CREEK WATERSHED DISTRICT OFFICE
Minnehaha Creek
Watershed District
Gray Freshwater Center
2500 Shadywood Road
(Navarre)
Excelsior, MN 55331
(612) 471-0590
Take exit for County 694
Road 15 west 494
(East) 694
12 15 Minneapolis
St. Paul
394
Aesl 15 Wayzata 94
6
35WI 35E
Lake
Minnetonka ,
494
19
(Shadywood Road)
7-
AMM FAX
NEWS
February 15-19, 1999
Mondale discussion
is Friday, March 5
ur apologies for the confusion in the
letter announcing the discussion with
Metropolitan Council Chair Ted Mondale.
The meeting is scheduled for Friday,
March 5 from 8-9 a.m., at the League of
Minnesota Cities building (145 University
Ave. W).
Please R.S.V.P. by calling the AMM at
651-215-4000 by Monday, March 1.
LGA under review
The Senate Property Tax and Local
Government Budget Committee,
chaired by Sen. Sandra Pappas (D -St.
Paul), took testimony last week on the Local
Government Aid (LGA) program/formula.
Rich Gardner of the Department of
Revenue outlined the history of LGA
formulas. Gary Carlson of the LMC dis-
cussed the development of the current
regression formula. The issue arises
annually because a few smaller cities have
special bills to adjust their aid based on new
growth and needs
Generally, the grandfather provision
prevents major changes. AMM and others
testified as to the continuing need for
revenue diversification and resources other
than the property tax.
The committee may consider minor
"tinkering" this year, but probably will not
make any major changes, especially in light
of the Governor's proposal to study all aids.
AAIAf Fav News is fared periodically
to all AA1A1 city managers and
administrators. Tire information is
intended to be shared with
mayors, councilmenrbers and staff.
OCopyright 1999 AMAI
145 University .4ve. IV.
St. Paul, AIN 55103-2044
Phone: (651) 215-4000
Fax: (651) 281-1299
E-mail: amnt@amml45.org
X- .—/
C 1
ASSO(Iat100 Of
Metropolitan
Municipalities
HF 303 extends levy
limits two more years
The House Property Tax Committee
heard a bill lastweek which would
extend levy limits two more years. HF 303 is
sponsored by Rep. Ron Erhardt (R -Edina)
and Rep. Henry Todd Van Dellen (R -
Plymouth).
The AMM, LMC (League of Minnesota
Cities) and MLC (Municipal Legislative
Commission) testified in opposition
indicating that levy limits not only impact
local needs, but over time may actually
increase levies. The bill remains alive for
possible Omnibus Tax Bill consideration.
Tax Committee Chair Rep. Ron Abrams (R -
Minnetonka) opposes levy limits but
indicated that if significant property tax
reform, such as more class rate compres-
sion, is considered, they may be continued.
He also discussed the possibility of
reverse referendum to enhance local
accountability. Citytestimony stressed that
Truth -in -Taxation works and does provide
local accountability.
House Research staff was asked to
provide some statistics on levy increases
during the 1990swith orwithout levy limits.
Housing improvement area extended
innesota cities are authorized by
current law (MS428A.11 to 428.21) to
establish a housing improvement area.
The legislation is a special services
district for single family and condominium
housing. To establish an area, the city must
be petitioned by the residents of the
proposed area and after notice and public
hearing adopt an enabling ordinance.
The ordinance must outline the bound-
aries of the area, the proposed improve-
ments and a finding that the area is needed
to complete the improvements. Housing
improvement areas are established in
Hopkins, New Hope, Plymouth and Brooklyn
Park. The legislation (SF 321) approved by
the Senate Jobs and Economic Develop-
ment Committee on Feb. 19 permits
economic development authorities and
housing and redevelopment authorities, in
addition to cities, to be implementing
agencies.
The city council continues to be the final
approving body of the area. SF 321 also
deletes the sunset that prohibited new areas
from being established after June 30, 2001
unless there is a special law provision
approved by the legislature.
SF 321 was originally a special bill for
Brooklyn Park and was amended to be
general law. The House companion (HF
420) will be heard in the House Jobs
Committee on Feb. 22.
Reliever airports, city corp. bills to be heard
The bill (HF 849) to define reliever
airports and establish a Noise Abate-
ment Advisory Committee for reliever
reports will be heard in the House Local
Government Committee on Wednesday,
Feb. 24.
The Municipal Corporations Bill (HF 777)
is scheduled for the Local Government
Committee for Monday, Feb. 22. The
Corporations Bill would delay the expiration
date for the corporations established by
local governments and create a task force
to develop legislation relating to the estab-
lishment of the corporations.
riven.. vnvi Iv. naury Lvw�ncit vasa. ucaraa ARMC. Q.0V_.0L ren (1-46)
AMM FAX
NEWS
February 22-26, 1999
House committee adopts
capital budget rules
The House Capital Investment Commit-
tee approved HF 726 and referred it to
the Local Government Committee. As
amended the bill "encourages" local
governments to follow the review process
outlined in the bill.
If the bill is enacted, a local government
wanting to obtain state funds for a local
capital project is encouraged to submit its
project to the Commissioner of Finance for
review. The project must be submitted by
June 1 of the odd numbered year and will be
evaluated based on nine statutory criteria.
The criteria attempt to assess the project's
impact on the state's operating budget, its
mission and the support of the project
among local governments.
The House bill is authored by Rep. Jim
Knoblach (R -St. Cloud). The Senate bill has
not been heard in the Government Opera-
tions Committee but the author, Sen.
Richard Cohen (D -St. Paul), has requested
a hearing.
Brooklyn Park bill passes
The House and Senate Jobs & Economic
Development Committees amended
and approved legislation relating to housing
improvement areas.
Under current law (Chapter 428A), a city
can establish the area and assist the home
owners or homeowners association in
financing the improvements. The amended
bill dropped the special legislation and
amended the current law to permit develop-
ment authorities to implementthe program.
The amendment also deletes the sunset
to general law. The law was scheduled to
sunset in 2001 and after that date cities
would need specific authority to establish an
area. Both bills were re-referred to the Local
Government Committees.
AAI Af Fax News is faxed periodically
to all AMM dtj, managers and
administrators. The information is
intended to be shared with
mayors, councilmembers and staff.
40 1
Association of
Metropolitan
Municipalitiej
Pappas bill caps TIF
en. Sandra Pappas (D -St. Paul) has
introduced two bills relating to the Tax
Increment Financing (TIF) Act.
SF 923 would prohibit the use of TIF for
districts certified after June 30, 1999 and
expansions of districts after that date for
public parks and recreational, social and
conference facilities. SF 1100 would cap the
amount of tax increment financing in a city.
No city could have captured tax capacity
that exceeds 15 percent of the city's total
tax capacity. The law would be effective as
of June 30,1999.
Tax bill makes life tough for cities
nitiatives similar to those proposed in the
governor's budget have been embodied in
SF 1018, which is authored by Sen. David
Johnson (D -Bloomington).
The bill does not allow issuance of any
new debt (bonds, certificates, etc.) after July
31, 1999 that would cause new debt levy in
excess of 1999 debt levy. All market value is
frozen at the 1998 assessment level for the
1999 assessment, except for new construc-
tion or improvements, and thereafter
residential homestead and non -homestead
property is limited to a five percent increase.
The levy rate for 2000 cannot exceed the
rate set for taxes payable 1999. Therefore,
only new growth adds new levy dollars. Any
levy decrease due to a tax capacity
decrease would be made up with a supple-
mental state aid. Thereafter, the levy limit
increase is the lesser of three percent or the
Implicit Price Deflator (IPD). The only
exceptions are referenda initiated by the
governing body, debt issued prior to July 31,
Dog bill could expand
HF 525 would transfer the registration of
dangerous dogs from counties to
cities. The bill as currently drafted is a
special bill that only applies to Anoka
County. A similar bill was passed last year
for Dakota County.
An amendment to make the Anoka
County bill apply to all cities in the metro
area has been discussed in House and
Senate committees. Legislators have
requested feedback from cities regarding
the proposal. Please contact Gene at AMM
(651-215-4001) with your comments.
1999 or annexation of a town. Fiscal
disparities is frozen for taxes payable 2000
as are levies for the purpose of amortizing
unfunded pension liability.
The Legislative Commission on Planning
and Fiscal Policy is directed to recommend
by Jan. 1, 2001 a property tax and education
aids reform program, including classification
and rate system, new school aids and
levies and aids to local government. The
commission may designate a task force to
advise it. All school and other aid programs
and the current classification system is
repealed effective taxes payable 2002,
unless the legislature does not adopt a new
system. The bill also tightens down all
school levies.
House committee hears
corporations, airport bills
The House Local Government Commit-
tee heard the Local Government
Corporation Bill (HF 777) and the Reliever
Airports Bill (HF 849) this week.
The corporations bill, which is authored
by Rep. Ann Rest (D -New Hope), would
extend the sunset date for corporations
established by local governments and
establish a task force to recommend
policies regarding the corporations. The bill
was approved and sent to the Government
Operations Committee.
The airports bill, authored by Rep. Barb
Haake (R -Mounds View), was continued to
Wednesday, March 3. Testimony on the bill
began this week but was not completed
prior to the conclusion of the meeting time.