HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 06-13-1997NNE 13,1997
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS
1. COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE.
NOTE: Ward 1 Councilmember Tim Bildsoe meets with residents and receives their comments in the
Administration Library, beginning at 6: 00 p.m. before each Council meeting.
JUNE 16 6:00 P.M. SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
MEET WITH WAYZATA SCHOOL BOARD
Public Safety Training Room
JUNE 18 5:30 P.M. SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
MEET WITH ROBBINSDALE SCHOOL
BOARD
Public Safety Training Room
JUNE 18 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
Council Chambers
JULY 1 7:00 P.M. SPECL4L COUNCIL MEETING
N. W. PLYMOUTH SURVEY
Public Safety Training Room
JULY 9 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
Council Chambers
2. BOARD AND COMMISSION INTERVIEWS, MONDAY, JUNE 16, 7:30 P.M., Medicine
Lake Room.
3. HRA, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 7:00 P.M., Medicine Lake Room. (M-3)
4. BUSINESS RELATIONS SUBCOMMITTEE, MONDAY, JUNE 23, 7:00 P. M., Medicine
Lake Room.
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO Page 2
June 13, 1997
5. PLANNING COMMISSION, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 7: 00 P.M., Council Chambers.
6. SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY POLICING, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25, 6:00 P.M.,
Medicine Lake Room.
7. PACT, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25, 7:00 P.M., Hadley Lake Room.
8. MEETING CALENDARS — June and July meeting calendars are attached. (M-8)
1. MINUTES
a. Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority May 15, 1997 meeting. (I -la)
2. NEWSARTICLES, RELEASES, PUBLICATIONS, ETC.
a. Northwest Community Television news release about the national Alliance for
Community Media award to Cable 12 News 1996 election night coverage as one of the
best cable news programs in the nation. (I -2a)
b. City news release asking for cooperation in the odd -even water restrictions program in
Plymouth. (I -2b)
c. Star Tribune Online news story about dry conditions in the region, with a quote from
Public Works Director Moore regarding Plymouth's odd -even water restrictions. (I -2c)
3. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS POLICY- CORRESPONDENCE
A status report on the most recent correspondence is attached. (1-3)
4. CORRESPONDENCE
a. Letter to the Mayor and Council from David and Mary Anderson commenting on the
future development of the property located in the southeast corner of 22"d Avenue and
Vicksburg Lane. (I -4a)
b. Letter from the Builders Association of the Twin Cities thanking the Mayor and City
Council for soliciting participation in the comprehensive planning process in Plymouth.
(I -4b)
c. Letter to New Hope Lions Club president Stan Feldman from the Mayor thanking the
organization for its part in sponsoring the District 281 School food drive and poster
contest. (I -4c)
d. Letter from Association of Medicine Lake Area Citizens to Park Director Eric Blank
thanking him for help in the annual Medicine Lake Clean-up event. (1--4d)
R
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO
June 13, 1997
Page 3
e. Letter to Manager Dwight Johnson from the Bassett Creek Water Management
Commission praising Plymouth Public Works Director Fred Moore for his efforts in the
Performance Partnerships program. (I -4e)
f. Memo to Mayor and City Council from Park Director Blank regarding West Medicine
Lake Park newsletter. (I -4f)
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of May 15, 1997 Minutes
3. Approval of T.R.A.I.L.S. 1997-98 Budget, Extension of Program Agreement, and Use of
Section 8 Reserves
4. a. Plymouth Towne Square Monthly Housing Reports
b. Authorization to Amend Management Agreement with Walker Management, Inc.
5. Status of Shenandoah Townhomes Housing Improvement Area Proposal **
6. Other Business
7. Adjournment
** The City Council will be holding a public hearing and considering the Shenandoah
Housing Improvement Area at its June 18' meeting at 7:OOpm.
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MINUTES
PLYMOUTH HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
May 15,1997
A meeting of the Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority was called to order by Chair
David Crain on May 15, 1997, at 7:05 p.m.
PRESENT: Chair David Crain, Commissioners Pat Pelstring, Brad Brown,
Brian Helmken, and John Edson
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: HRA Supervisor Ed Goldsmith, Senior Clerk/Typist Barb Peterson
OTHERS PRESENT: Council Member Virginia Black, Melody Burnham of Walker
Management, Jon Thompson of Hammer Residences and former
HRA Commissioner Marjie McFarland
RECEPTION HONORING MARJI9 MCFARLAND
Chair Crain honored Mar ie McFarland with a presentation of a plaque in recognition of her
service to the HRA and the City of Plymouth. After the presentation a reception was held in her
honor.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION by Commissioner Edson, seconded by Commissioner Pelstring to recommend
approval of the March 20, 1997 minutes.
Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION carried unanimously.
ASSISTANCE TO HAMMER RESIDENCES, INC. FOR THE BLACK OAKS HOME
HRA Supervisor Goldsmith explained that Hammer Residences operates the home at 2611 Black
Oaks Lane North for four developmentally disabled adults. The home is now in need of
renovations. They need an additional $6,000 which they have requested from the HRA. The
staff recommended approval of a loan from the HRA's Fox Forest Affordable Housing account.
Commissioner Brown asked if it was an overrun of the project. Executive Director of Hammer
Residences, Jon Thompson, replied that the bathroom needs to be enlarged and the fire sprinkler
system has caused a problem. The water pressure is not great enough from street to building.
This was an unexpected problem.
Commissioner Hehnken asked what is the current fund balance. Supervisor Goldsmith
responded that $34,000 remains for this year. Commissioner Brown wanted to know if anything
else was waiting to compete with this. Supervisor Goldsmith replied there is nothing at this time.
Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority
May 15, 1997
Page 11
Motion by Commissioner Helmken, seconded by Commissioner Brown to approve the use of
$6,000 from the Fox Forest Affordable Housing account in the HRA General Fund for a loan to
Hammer Residences, Inc.
Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION carried unanimously.
SHENANDOAH TOWNHOMES HOUSING IMPROVEMENTS FINANCING
ASSISTANCE
Supervisor Goldsmith presented the report. Property owners from the Shenandoah Townhomes
have petitioned the City to create a Housing Improvement Area under Minnesota Statutes 428A
to finance re -siding and related improvements for their development. The cost can be levied
against the individual property owners and collected along with property taxes. A number of
options were presented and discussed by the Commissioners:
1. Establish the Housing Improvement Area and finance the improvements with either City
funds or by selling bonds. This would add to the City's debt, but this is so low that it would
not affect the City's AAA credit rating.. Establishing a precedent was of some concern.
2. The City could provide a direct loan which would require the City to come up with the full
amount for the improvements, which are estimated to be approximately $1.2 to $1.4 million.
has
3. The City could provide a loan guarantee
debtservice reserve association cou d e. no make the loan
t with a
bank and they were very interested. If the homeowners
payments, the debt service reserve would begin to make payments.
Commissioner Brown wanted to know what recourse the City would have if the association were
to fail. Supervisor Goldsmith replied tht City couldotakp over
p rtithe es under the management
homeowners association or levy feesagainst
Improvement Area statute to recoup the City's costs.
Commissioner Brown wanted to know if the bank was one which the City does business with. It
is not.
Commissioner Brown asked what is the average home value in the area. It ranges between
approximately $60,000 to $98,000 with an average of approximately $75,000.
Commissioner Pelstring wanted to know how bad the siding really is. Chair Crain replied that it
is in very bad shape.
Commissioner Edson stated that the City would do better to assess the owners for the
improvements, similar to street improvements. That opened some discussion regarding issues
that the City has had with the private streets in this development. Commissioner Edson stated
that he is not against providing financing to make housing improvements, but prefers to do it
Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority
May 15, 1997
Page 12
under a direct loan from the City to maintain control of the whole process. He commented that
the lien foreclosure process would be very expensive and very drawn.
Commissioner Pelstring asked if anyone had looked at the delinquent tax situation. This had not
yet been done. [6 of the 219 properties (2.7%) were delinquent in payment of the first half
1997 property tax. Also, approximately 75% of the properties have their taxes escrowed by
a mortgage company.]
Commissioner Edson stated that this area is important as Plymouth does not have much housing
in this price range and we need to take care of it and not let it get run down.
The first buildings were built in 1971 and the last building in 1981. They did not hire their first
management company until 1995. A new management company was hired in December, 1996.
Previously they had been self -managed. They have not had adequate homeowner assessments to
pay for these improvements. Their collection history had also been poor.
Commissioner Pelstring said that bringing a bank into this would be unnecessary. The City
would be responsible in the long run a7way. He thought a fair interest rate would be 8% and
that it would be a good deal for the homeowners. This could be reduced on a case by case basis
depending on income. He said to keep it simple if it can be done and do it as a straight
assessment.
Commissioner Edson said to look down the road and make sure the City has a way to secure it's
money with as little publicity as possible. No City action is required if the loan payments come
through the property tax process.
Motion by Commissioner Pelstring, seconded by Commissioner Brown that:
1. The HRA recommend to the City Council that the City finance this project through the
Housing Improvement Area statute.
2. That the City add administrative costs up front.
3. That the interest rate be set at 8% and any return in excess of the city's investment rate be
returned as a fund for HRA affordable housing.
4. The City should seek to establish a reduction of interest rates based upon need on a case to
case basis.
Commissioner Edson offered an amendment that the City develop criteria for establishing future
housing improvement areas The amendment was accepted by the maker and the seconder of the
original motion.
Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION carried unanimously.
Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority
May 15,1997
Page 13
j:, 1&
APPLICATION FOR 1997 COMMUNITY ACITIVITY SET-ASIDE PROGRAM (CASA)
Motion by Commissioner Edson, seconded by Chairman Crain that the Board approve the staff's
action in submitting an application to the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency for the
Community Activity Set -Aside Program for the City of Plymouth for $400,000 in loan authority
for first time homebuyer mortgages.
Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION carried unanimously.
PLYMOUTH TOWNE SQUARE MONTHLY HOUSING REPORTS
Melody Burnham gave her report of Plymouth Towne Square. Inspec, Inc. has not yet issued its
report on the water infiltration problems. A Minnegasco energy audit done as part of Inspec's
investigation was very favorable. Plymouth Towne Square is at 100% occupancy.
MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL AND AGREEMENT FOR PLYMOUTH TOWNE
t
SQUARE
Supervisor Goldsmith explained that the proposal received from North Ridge was unsolicited.
They understand that this is simply a preliminary proposal. The Management agreement with
Walker will renew automatically at the end of this year unless either party notifies the other by
July 3 to allow the Agreement to terminate.
Commissioner Brown wanted to know if we are thinking of looking at other proposals. At this
time we are not unless Walker does not satisfactorily resolve the issue of the roof, attic and other
water infiltration problems.
Discussion followed regarding the July 3, 1997 renewal date. We need more time beyond July
3rd to give notice of termination. It was suggested that we extend this time until September 3rd
because of the unresolved roof issues.
Motion by Commissioner Pelstring, seconded by Commissioner Edson that the HRA request that
Walker agree to an amendment to extend our notice of termination option until September 3rd.
They will have until June 15 to reply to this amendment.
Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION carried unanimously.
STATUS REPORT ON THE COMMUNITY HOME PROGRAM
The Program has repaid the $23,997.05 loan from the HRA plus $4,336.25 in interest. They
have closed on their financing and had a groundbreaking on their first home in April. The
Plymouth home is expected to begin construction in the Spring of 1998.
Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority
May 15, 1997 _
Page 14
TRAILS FUND RAISING REPORT
Staff has begun private fund raising for the program. Donations have been received from
Marquette Bank ($500) and Turck, Inc. ($500). Some potential contributors indicated that they
give towards the end of the year. Staff will follow-up with them at the appropriate time. Staff is
also preparing a request to Honeywll, Inc. Commissioner Brown asked if we had looked at the
McKnight Foundation. Carol Bede would be the contact person. [The McKnight Foundation's
Welfare to Work project is to fund new initiatives. As an existing initiative, T.R.A.I.L.S.
does not qualify. Staff is attending planning meetings with other west Hennepin agencies
and McKnight regarding this project.] General Mills was also mentioned as well as the new
Riverside Bank.
CORRESPONDENCE TO STATE LEGISLATORS
These memos were included as general information.
M
OTHER BUSINESS:
SHENANDOAH WOODS APARTMENTS PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
Concern was mentioned regarding the lower number of rental apartments that would be
developed on a site that had been designated and provided with public facilities to support higher
densities. A motion was made to recommend to the City Council and the Planning Commission
that the density be between 84 and 105 units for the site.
Vote 4 ayes. (Commissioner Helmken abstained)
Meeting Adjourned 9:55 P.M.
NORTHWEST
COMMUNITY
TELEVISION,,
6900 Winnetko Avenue
Brooklyn Park, MN 55
(6 12) 533-8196
For immediate release 6/5/97
Contact: Dan Schillinger, News Director 533-8196
Alliance for Community Media (202) 393-2650
CABLE 12 NEWS WINS NATIONAL HONOR
WASHINGTON, D.C.--The Alliance for Community Media has named
Cable 12 News' 1996 election night coverage one of the best local
cable news programs in the nation.
Cable 12's live electionfnight coverage was anchored by John
Jacobson and produced by Lori Ziebarth. It featured live updates
from reporters Ann Koland, Fritzie Borgwardt and Nichole Day
reporting from several northwest suburbs.
Cable 12 was singled out for the award from more than 1400
entries submitted by cable access producers from across the
country.
The award will be presented to the station July 10 in Milwaukee,
Wisconsin, at the Alliance's annual "Hometown Video Festival" and
conference.
The Alliance for Community Media is a national nonprofit
organization that works to improve and expand public,
educational, and government access programming on cable
television.
- 30 -
Northwest Community Television's Cable 12 is part of King
Videocable's channel line-up in 60,000 northwest suburban homes
and covers local news and events happening in Brooklyn Center,
Brooklyn Park, Corcoran, Crystal, Golden Valley, Hanover, Hassan,
Maple Grove, Medicine Lake, New Hope, Osseo, Plymouth,
Robbinsdale, and Rogers.
Brooklyn Center • Brooklyn Park • Corcoran • Crystal • Golden Valley • Hanover • Maple Grove • Medicine Lake • New Hope • Osseo • Plymouth • Robbinsdale • Rogers
For Immediate Release
June 9, 1997
61 YV`
-- Loc1l 0%` j x�
For More Information:
Fred Moore, 509-5501
PLYMOUTH ASKS FOR COOPERATION WITH ODD -EVEN WATER RESTRICTIONS
The dry, warm weather of the past two weeks is already taking a toll on the local water
supply. Plymouth set an all time record for water use on June 8 when residents used 23 million
gallons of water. On an average summer day, Plymouth water customers go through 10 - 11 million
gallons a day. To ensure that water is available to handle fire emergencies, odd -even water
restrictions on all outdoor water use are in effect through Sept. 30 for all City of Plymouth water
customers.
Since June 1, Plymouth water customers have been using an average of 19.3 million gallons a
day. Using that much water means that all wells are running at capacity all day. "Lowering the water
table is the real concern here. The more water people use, the longer the wells must run and the
lower the water table drops. If the water table gets drawn down too low, the City will have to begin
shutting off pumps," said Public Works Director Fred Moore. City well pumps depend on the ground
water to keep them cool. If the water is too low to cover the pumps, the pump engines burn out in a
matter of minutes.
"Our first concern is having sufficient water available for fire emergencies and for daily
domestic use," Moore said. "We need people to use water with an eye toward conservation. It's
imperative that they adhere to the odd -even restrictions. In addition, we need them to use water
sparingly during their daily activities until we receive some rain," Moore said.
Water Restrictions
Businesses and residents with addresses ending in an odd number may water on odd -
numbered days. Those with even numbered addresses may water on even -numbered calendar days.
City water customers may wash vehicles and do hand-held hose watering of shrubs, flowers and trees
on any day provided the hose is equipped with a nozzle with automatic shutoff. The restrictions
apply to unattended outdoor watering, including new sod, landscaping and timed sprinklers. The
PLYMOUTH A Beau tifu[Place To Live
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONF (F1?) hn4-�nnn
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penalty for violating restrictions is $100 for each day of violation. Violators receive one written
warning before they are penalized.
If conditions require the City to modify the restrictions, changes will announced on:
• WCCO-AM 830 Radio;
• Cable 12 News
• Cable Television Channel 37; and
• City Web site. The address is wwwA.plymouth.mmus.
• The Water Restriction Hot line, 509-5512. The Hot line is a 24-hour recorded message of up-to-
date water restriction information.
s
-30-
For Immediate Release
June 13, 1997
l-Zb
--TV
For More Information:
Fred Moore, 509-5501
PLYMOUTH ASKS FOR COOPERATION WITH ODD -EVEN WATER RESTRICTIONS
TO AVOID HAVING TO TIGHTEN RESTRICTIONS'
New records for water use are short lived these days in Plymouth. The dry, warm weather of
the past two weeks is taking a toll on the water supply. Plymouth set an all time record for water use
on June 8 when its 60,000 residents used 23 million gallons of water. The record only stood for one
day. By June 9, water use had climbed to 25 million gallons. On an average summer day, Plymouth
water customers go through 10 - 11 milliotn gallons a day.
With no significant rain in sight, the City is at the point of considering whether its current odd -
even restrictions will have to be tightened. To avoid having to mandate more stringent restrictions,
the City is asking residents to voluntarily cutback on non-essential outdoor water use.
To ensure that water is available for public safety purposes, odd -even restrictions on all
outdoor water use go into effect annually May 1 - Sept. 30 for all City of Plymouth water customers.
Public Works Director Fred Moore is evaluating whether the restrictions will have to be tightened.
"We're at the point where we have to make a decision on a daily basis as to whether the odd -even
restrictions are enough. If we can get more voluntary cutbacks from people, odd -even may get us
through until we get some rain. If people insist on doing non-essential outdoor watering, they likely
won't be enough," said Moore. The City's top priority must be to have enough water to handle fire
emergencies and daily household needs, according to Moore.
Plymouth's 13 wells have been operating at capacity since June 1 to meet the demand for
water. "Thirteen days running at capacity is tough. Usually during a summer we might have a period
where we run wells at capacity for seven or eight days. The law of averages is that something is going
to break down if we can't give the equipment a rest," said Moore.
More
PLYMOUTH A Beau t (PfaceTo Live
gdnn PI vMnt ITH Rnlll_FVARn • PI_YMnUTH MINNFROTA 55447-1482 9 TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000
Plymouth Water Restrictions
Page 2 of 2
Since June 1, Plymouth water customers have been using an average of 19.3 million gallons a
day. "Lowering the water table is the real concern here. The more water people use, the longer the
wells must run and the lower the water table drops. As the water level gets lower, the wells become
less efficient and cannot pump as much water. If the water table gets drawn down too low, the City
will have to begin shutting off pumps," said Public Works Director Fred Moore. City well pumps
depend on the ground water to keep them cool. If the water is too low to cover the pumps, the
pumps burn out in a matter of minutes.
"Some people put a lot of work into their lawns, but it's important to keep things in
perspective. Our first concern is having sufficient water available for fire emergencies and for daily
domestic use," Moore said. "We need people to use water with an eye toward conservation. It's
imperative that they adhere to the odd -even restrictions. In addition, we need them to use water
t
sparingly during their daily activities until we receive some rain," Moore said.
Plymouth Water Restrictions
Businesses and residents with addresses ending in an odd number may water on odd -
numbered days. Those with even numbered addresses may water on even -numbered calendar days.
City water customers may wash vehicles and do hand-held hose watering of shrubs, flowers and trees
on any day provided the hose is equipped with a nozzle with automatic shutoff. The restrictions
apply to unattended outdoor watering, including new sod, landscaping and timed sprinklers. The
penalty for violating restrictions is $100 for each day of violation. Violators receive one written
warning before they are penalized.
If conditions require the City to modify the restrictions, changes will be announced on:
• Cable 12 News
• Cable Television Channel 37
• City Web site. The address is www.ci.plymouth.mn.us.
• The Water Restriction Line, 509-5512, a 24-hour recorded message of up-to-date water restriction
information.
Information on changes will also be provided to metropolitan media outlets.
-30-
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Published Tuesday, ,;u�ie 10, 199
Cool, dry spring has taken toll on plants in metro area
Ingrid Sundstrom / Star Tribune
Cooler and drier weather this spring has had a profound effect on the plant world
Star Tribune Online
in the Twin Cities area. There has been a devastating early May freeze and late
Viety
May frosts, and less than normal rainfall. With only 6 1/2 inches so far this year,
IV
we're about 4 inches short of normal rainfall, the National Weather Service reports.
HelAd Items
But not all the news is bad.
REGardening woes?Ask a Master
Gardener
The service's long-term forecast for this summer calls for below -normal
Zone 4
temperatures and near-normal precipitation. However, consulting meteorologist
Bruce Watson, who specializes in long-range forecasts, has a less -rosy prediction:
"Despair for June, hope for July and optimism for August." He expects
below -normal precipitation through at least early July.
Higher temperatures and increased watering of lawns, trees and gardens in the past
week have pushed full leafing of the trees and growth spurts of grass, plants and
tomatoes. Most forecasters and horticulturists are not willing to talk drought yet.
"The topsoil may be dry," said Greg Spoden, a climatologist with the Department
of Natural Resources, "but the middle and lower layers of the soil -moisture profile
are fine. In the short term, we won't see stress in plants with deep root systems
unless tl}is persists."
That's because last summer's dry spell was followed by an "extraordinarily wet
October and November that ended that downward spiral" by replenishing the
moisture in the soil, he said.
However, consulting meteorologist Bruce Watson already is using the d -word.
"We're in the early stages of a drought," he said. "The grass is in horrible shape.
It's already taken a beating from the dry conditions and shallow -rooted stuff is
already suffering."
Harold Pellett, a University of Minnesota horticulture professor, said there is
concern about lawns going into dormancy so early in the season. Grasses and
trees, especially stressed ones, can only benefit from good waterings -- but no
more than an inch a week. Trees and shrubs should have been fertilized before
new growth started, but you can lightly fertilize stressed -looking plants if you
water them well, he said.
Meanwhile, many Minnesotans are noting lawns that are dead in toto or in
patches; some stressed trees and shrubs have died or leafed out late and in unusual
pattens, and some gardeners lost normally hardy perennials while noting that some
annual plants have re sprouted.
On the other hand, lilac blooms have stretched out longer than usual in the cooler
weather, and pansies still are showing bright colors and cheerful faces in great
profusion. The season for kohl crops such as broccoli and cauliflower and for peas
and lettuces are lasting much longer than normal.
"It's been weird weather," said horticulturist Shirley Mah Kooyman of the
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. "But some plants that normally have a short
period of enjoyment before the heat and rains set in may get a chance to really put
on a show this year."
Grass seed and sod sales have soared this spring as homeowners struggle to
replace lawns lost or damaged in the unusual conditions that wiped out hundreds
of acres of fields of new -planted sod in the northern metro area.
The losses are attributed to a combination of factors, beginning last fall, when
there were heavy rains just before the arrival of below -freezing temperatures and
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snow, smothering and killing young grass plants, said Jim Keiken of Norlex Turf
in Blaine, which lost about 60 acres of sod fields in Andover.
Then came spring losses. "We re -seeded early this spring, but it hasn't sprouted
due to lack of water and cool ground temperatures. Nothing germinated at all. I
put seed down, and nothing's coming up," he said. Seeding those fields now won't
happen until the normal planting season in August, he said.
Sod supplies for this year shouldn't be affected, but next year's crop is in jeopardy,
said Keiken and John Hogdal, of Hogdal Turf in Ham Lake.
As a result, there was a huge bulge in sales of grass seed and sod rolls. "We've
sold more grass seed this spring season than we normally sell all year long," said
Mike Hibbard, Bachman's horticultural adviser.
Bachman's store on Lyndale Av. S. in Minneapolis refers sod customers to Klier's
Nursery and Garden Center, where sales have been brisk and supplies steady, said
Howard Klier.
"Grass seed sales been up, no question about it," he said. "It's almost as high as
when we came out of drought several years ago." Sod prices have increased three
or four times this spring, partly because Klier's suppliers have had to truck in sod
from farther away.
i
With all that grass seed sitting on lawns waiting for warm weather and rains to
germinate and grow, the wait has been a long one. And the demand on municipal
waterworks has been heavy, so much so that several metro communities have
instituted watering restrictions.
We always have odd -even watering restrictions, going back to 1980," said Fred
Moore, Plymouth's director of public works. "But the demand is really high this
year.... Since June 1, we've been averaging 19.3 million gallons of water a day,
and we set the all-time usage record yesterday Sunday, the 8th, with 23 million
gallons."
But if the Weather Service's long-range forecast is right -- near-normal rainfall and
11 !
slightly cooler weather -- that could be very good for gardens, said Deborah
Brown, University of Minnesota Extension Service horticulturist.
Gardening woes?Ask a Master
Gardener
Zone a
"That's great for flower gardening," she said. "Flowers last longer, their colors
don't fade and the plants are more compact. Gardens could look great this
summer."
f� Tre.tkbe
-- Staff writer Connie Nelson contributed to this report.
Ask 19Wvariety
® Copyright 1997 Star Tribune. Al rights reserved.
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00
June 4, 1997
Mayor Joy Tierney
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447-1482
Re: Property Located at the Southeast Corner of
22nd Avenue and Vicksburg Lane
Dear Mayor Tierney:
We are writing to you regarding the future development of the above-mentioned property
in Plymouth. We do plan to attend the public hearing this month which will be held by the
Plymouth Planning Commission.
Our family has lived close to this site for over 10 years and we would strongly consider
moving out of the area if this site were to be developed commercially. Commercial
development would impact the area in many negative ways. Consider the following:
* It would pose a major traffic concern, putting the many families that
populate the area at risk. There is already too much traffic and cars
often exceed the 50 mph speed limit. We have stopped walking on
the sidewalk along Vicksburg because we feel it is unsafe.
* It has the potential to become a loitering area much like the commercial
development on the southeast corner of County Rd. 6 and 101.
* It would not fit into the surrounding residential neighborhoods and
nearby Parker's Lake.
* It would cause real estate property values to decrease. Many homeowners
have spent $200,000 - $300,000 for their homes (Steeplechase and Fox
Run neighborhoods) and would not like to see their investment impacted
in a negative way by commercial development. We have gas stations,
fast-food restaurants, liquor stores, convenience stores and day care
centers all less than a five minute drive from the area.
For the above reasons, we are opposed to the proposed commercial development of this
property. Wouldn't it make more sense if this site could be rezoned to a low density
residential area? It would preserve the quality of living in the neighborhood and keep it
family friendly.
Thank you for your time and consideration to this matter.
Sincerely,
r!
LU --
David and Mary Andersen
cc: Plymouth Planning Commissioners
Plymouth Council Members
Plymouth Staff Members
Avok
BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
of THE TWIN CITIES
June 9, 1997
Mayor Joy Tierney J1lfa ,
Members of the City Council ''- % D �3
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Plymouth, MN 55447-1482
Dear Mayor Tierney and Members of the
r
Thank you for inviting representatives from the Builders Association of the Twin
Cities to participate in the community kick-off initiating the comprehensive
planning process in Plymouth. The efforts to solicit broad public input are truly
commendable and the innovative high-tech tools helped create a forum for an
interesting exchange of ideas and concerns.
However, a major concern we must raise is: While many area residents may wish
to be surrounded by wide open spaces, the economic, social and cultural realities
demand a thorough and challenging review of the facts.
Residents in or near the northwest quadrant of the city are fearful about future
development. To help address these concerns, an educational process may need to
be initiated that results in a better understanding of the community development
process. With good land use planning and proper zoning tools, Plymouth will
provide the long-term amenities a prosperous community will need to maintain
and provide housing for future generations.
For example, additional townhouse units will provide the current 35-50 year old
residents with affordable styles and location choices in ten or fifteen years when
those residents will very likely want to make different housing choices. Those same
residents' children may also choose to stay near where they were born and raised,
close to families and churches, schools and shopping, and job locations familiar to
them. They will be looking for, perhaps, single-family detached housing in the
$100,000 to $150,000 price range.
Growth in Plymouth is projected to increase by adding 10,000 new housing units
by the year 2010. As Plymouth continues to grow and prosper, Plymouth will be a
choice community for citizens throughout the region, and will continue to be the
choice for existing Plymouth residents. In fact, the experience of a major builder in
Plymouth shows that over 809o' of their new home buyers in Plymouth are from
1325 East 79th Street, Suite 6, Bloomington, Minnesota 55425-1196
Phone (612) 851-9242 - Main Fax (612) 851-9560 - Parade Fax (612) 851-9570
within the city. Therefore it is important for you to consider where you will want
your family members to live in the future. They too will want to have housing
choices like family members had before them.
We also note that Plymouth's Livable Communities Act agreement with the
Metropolitan Council suggests that to increase the availability of affordable rental
and owner occupied housing, Plymouth must pay close attention to land prices. The
economic reality is of course, land prices increase as land becomes more scarce.
Schools are also a major consideration for a growing community like Plymouth.
We encourage the city to ask area school districts to supply the city with the districts'
analysis of the assumptions used to calculate repayment of bond debt. It is likely this
fiscal analysis included growth projections for the city of Plymouth.
No doubt many of us also need to gain a more clear understanding that increased
population results in more housing units but it also means an increase in
employment opportunities, not to mention the significant economic spin-off effect
of the development and building process itself and the long-term impact of
development once it is completed and becomes part of the community.
Further, we need to dispel the comfortable myth that suggests if there is no change,
there will be no increase in costs or services. History provides for us a very different
economic experience.
To help address the fears and concerns we hear throughout the metro region, the
Builders Association of the Twin Cities plans to initiate a comprehensive cost
assessment analysis this summer to help consumers, public policy makers, and our
own industry assess the cost of housing our region's residents and future residents
will incur. As this work progresses, we will be happy to share our information with
the city.
We look forward to seeing the results of your survey and we look forward to
working with Plymouth on the comprehensive planning process. We would also
be happy to provide data and information that may be useful to Plymouth and the
planning process.
Thank you for your consideration of our comments.
Sincerely,
ib
Gary L urent, Chairperson
Public Policy Committee
Ka en Christofferson
Director of Public Policy
cc: Anne Hurlburt, City of Plymouth
BATC Board of Directors and Public Policy Committee
June 13, 1997
Mr. Stan Feldman
New Hope Lions Club
8900 29`h Avenue North
New Hope, Minnesota 55427
Dear Mr. Feldman,
The Plymouth City Council joins me in thanking you and the New Hope Lions
Club for sponsoring the food drive and poster contest in District 281 schools. I
understand that Plymouth students at Zachary and Pilgrim Lane schools were very active
participants in the project, and that students will be recognized at a special program the
evening of June 18.
We applaud your project, which certainly builds bridges across communities and
makes kids more aware of the world beyond themselves. Our thanks to the New Hope
Lions and to the many students who participated. Job well done!
Sincerely,
Joycelyn H. Tierney
Mayor of Plymouth
PLYMOUTH :I Bcautiiful Pface'Io Live
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000
Dear Eric,
Association of Medicine Lake Area Citizens
May 31,1997
This letter is written in thanks for your assistance with
the annual Medicine Lake Clean Up held this May. As always,
your efforts are appreciated and the event was successful.
We look forward to working with you in other issues.
0
d
Sincerely
i
Bridget Jodell
President of AMLAC
BASSETT CREEK WATER MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
Curtis A. Pearson, Attorney
470 Pillsbury Center
Minneapolis MN 55402
(General Address)
Phone: 612/337-9221
Fax: 612/337-9310
May 9, 1997
Mr. Dwight Johnson
City Manager
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Road
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Mr. Johnson:
Leonard Kremer, Engineer
Barr Engineering Company
8300 Norman Center Drive
Minneapolis MN 55437-1026
Phone: 612/832-2600
Fax: 612/832-2601
Crystal
Golden Valley
Medicine Lake
Minneapolis
Minnetonka
New Hope
Plymouth
Robbinsdale
St. Louis Park
At Governor Carlson's April 1997 Partnership in Minnesota Conference, we heard both federal and
state agencies emphasizing the need for more effective public service through "Performance
Partnerships" involving the public and private sector focusing on meeting stakeholder needs. I
believe that through the efforts of the commissioners from Crystal, Golden Valley, Medicine Lake,
Minneapolis, Minnetonka, New Hope, Robbinsdale, St. Louis Park, and your Alternate
Commissioner Fred Moore and your staff, that the Bassett Creek Watershed Partnership has been
a model for this concept of "Performance Partnerships."
Our most recent partnership project involved the U.S. Department of the Army Corps of Engineers,
Minnesota Department of Transportation, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and
the nine cities of the Commission to construct a multipurpose water management system at
Bassett Creek Park. Because the project was multipurpose, the public saved hundreds of
thousands of dollars, while the project improves water quality, controls floodwaters, and provides
more open space.
This partnership effort received a 1997 Governor's Commendation at the conference. I am pleased
to present the enclosed Certificate of Commendation signed by Governor Arne Carlson to the
Bassett Creek Water Management Commission. Thank you for your participation in the success of
this partnership effort.
Sincerely,
"I 4-�,W44�
W. Peter Enck
Chairman
Bassett Creek Water Management Commission
WPE:pls
Enclosure
c: Mr. Ron Quanbeck
Mr. Fred Moore
2327051\49722-1
S^ �r e__�
ILO
FFICE
ARNE H. CARLSON
GOVERNOR
Certificate of Commendation
In recognition of your partnership efforts with the
Bassett Creek Water Management Partnership
this commendation is presented to:
Bassett Creek Water Management Commission
with the appreciation and respect of the people
of Minnesota.
IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto
set my hand and caused the Great Seal of
the State of Minnesota to be affixed at the
State Capitol this 30th day of April in the
year of our Lord one thousand nine
hundred and ninety-seven, and of the State
the one hundred and thirty-eighth.
u.�
GOVERNOR
y 4- -�
DATE: June 13, 1997
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director, Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: WEST MEDICINE LAKE PARK NEWSLETTER
The attached newsletter has apparently been randomly distributed to homes around the
west side of Medicine Lake. There is no name on the newsletter, therefore, we have no
idea who is responsible for printing it. The information in the newsletter is not accurate,
and I wanted to clarify some points with you in case you do receive some calls. As you
will notice, on the June 18 Council agenda, we are recommending that the Council
reject bids that were taken for Phase 3 work at West Medicine Lake Park. Because of
state bidding laws, we only had the choice of awarding, or not awarding contracts, and
cannot negotiate in-between deals. We have many hundreds of thousands of dollars
set aside to complete this work, and we intend to have the majority of it done by the end
of the year. The resolution you have on Wednesday evening rejecting the bids also
authorizes staff to immediately rebid the project, which we will do as soon as possible.
Finally, the beach and park were not scheduled to open this year. None of that was
budgeted for 1997. It has always been contemplated that the operating funds to open
the park will be budgeted in 1998. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me
at 509-5201.
EB/np
cc: City Manager
NEWS NEWS NEWS -NEWS
Construction HAULTS at West Medicine Lake Park
Upon completion of Phase 2 (the redirection of West Medicine Lake Drive)
the City of Plymouth Engineering Department stated " We do not have the
funds to complete the park as it was presented to the public, the bids cane in
too high". They have no idea how to build the park as it was designed
without cutting some of the amenities.
This project is already a year late and is on hold. See Plymouth News, July
95, January 95, July 94.
Do You want a completed park ?
Do You want a beach you can swim at ?
t
Do you want a completed bike/walking path ?
Do You want a completed Park, This Year ?
Call and let your opinion be known.
Mayor Joy Tierney
R. 473-1681
V.M. 509-5006
City Council
Ward 3 Saundra Spigner
R./Fax 544-3049
V.M. 509-5004
At Large Judy Johnson
R./Fax 557-4926
V.M. 509-5007
Christian A. Preus
R. 475-0561
V.M. 509-5005
City Engineer in charge of park project, Erik Blank 509-5500