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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 04-04-1997rp) APRIL 4,1997 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. APRIL 9 7:00 P.M. BOARD OF REVIEW Council Chambers APRIL 16 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Council Chambers APRIL 23 7:00 P.M. BOARD OF REVIEW (RECONVENED) Council Chambers MAY 7 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Council Chambers 2. PLANNING COMMISSION, TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 7:00 P.M., Council Chambers. Agenda is attached. (M-2) 3. ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE, TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 7:00 P.M., Hadley Lake Room. Agenda is attached. (M-3) 4. COUNCIL SUB—COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 5:30 P.M., Medicine Lake Room. Agenda is attached. (M-4) 5. COUNCIL SUB -COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY POLICING, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 6:00 P.M., Public Safety Training Room. Agenda is attached. (M -S) 6. PRAC, THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 7:00 P.M., Council Chambers. CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO April 4, 1997 Page 2 7. WAYZATA/PLYMOUTHAREA CHEMICAL HEALTH COMMISSION, FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 7:00 A.M., Wayzata District Administration Building, 210 Co. Rd. 101 N. Agenda is attached. (M-7) 8. COUNCIL SUB–COMMITTEE ON BUSINESS RELATIONS, TUESDAY, APRIL IS, 6:00 P.M., Medicine Lake Room. 9. HRA, THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 7: 00 P.M., Medicine Lake Room. 10. MEETING CALENDARS — April and May meeting calendars are attached. (M-10) 1. MINUTES a. Wayzata–Plymouth Area Chemical Health Commission March 14, 1997 meeting. (I -]q) b. Planning Commission March 25, 1997 meeting. (I -1b) c. Plymouth Human Rights Commission April 3, 1997 meeting. (I -1c) d. Council Sub -Committee on Community Policing March 12, 1997 meeting. (I -1d) e. Council Sub -Committee on City Center April 2, 1997 meeting. (I -1e) 2. ADVISORY COMMISSION VACANCIES a. News release soliciting applicants to fill the Ward 1 (northwest Plymouth) vacancy on the Environmental Quality Committee. (I -2a) b. Letter of resignation from At–Large Human Rights Commissioner Howard Sigal. Notice soliciting applications will be released at a later date. (I -2b) 3. NEWS ARTICLES, RELEASES, PUBLICATIONS, ETC. a. Star Tribune news article about the debate over the use of impact fees in communities. (I -3a) b. Notice and schedule of interviews for finalists for the position of President of North Hennepin Community College. (I -3b) CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO April 4, 1997 Page 3 c. Notice and invitation to a town meeting held by Hennepin County Commissioners Tuesday, April 15, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Independence Community Center, 1920 County Road 90, in Maple Plain. (1--3c) d. Notice and information regarding proposed change in location of the meetings of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission. (1--3d) e. Legislative update on transit and other issues from the League of Minnesota Cities. (I - 3e) 4. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS POLICY- CORRESPONDENCE a. Letter to Steve Fontaine from Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt responding to comments about the proposed development of the land north of Dundee Nursery (96188). The original Fontaine correspondence is attached. (I -4a) b. Letter from Geoff Wagner regarding the City's policy on tree removal. The letter has been forwarded to Park Director Eric Blank for a response. (1--4b) A status report on the most recent correspondence is attached. 5. CORRESPONDENCE a. Letter to the Mayor from The National Arbor Day Foundation saluting Plymouth as a Tree City USA. (1--5a) 6. FRIDAY FAX, the League of Minnesota Cities weekly update on legislative activity. (1-6) ® PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 1997 WHERE: Plymouth City Center 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS CONSENT AGENDA All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine by the Planning Commission and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Commissioner, citizen or petitioner so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the consent agenda and considered in normal sequence on the agenda. 1. CALL TO ORDER 7:00 P.M. 2. PUBLIC FORUM 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 5. *CONSENT AGENDA 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Paul Hanson and Re/Max Results, Inc. Lot Division and lot width Variances for property located at 9705-27' Avenue North. Under the proposal, the site would be subdivided into two lots. The existing home located in the east portion of the site would remain, and a new home would be constructed in the west portion of the site. The variances would allow the lots to be 97 feet wide, where 110 feet is specified under the ordinances. (96177) B. Independent School District 284. Interim Use Permit to continue use of the relocatable classroom structure at Greenwood Elementary School, 3635 County Road No. 101. (97022) C. Moen Leuer Construction. Rezoning from FRD (Future Restricted Development) to B -C (Business Campus), Preliminary Plat, Site Plan and Conditional Use Permit for construction of two office/showroom buildings of 82,747 square feet and 56,000 square feet to be known as West Glen Corporate Center for property located south of 36te Avenue North, east of Dunkirk Lane, north of Highway 55. (97012) D. Carlson Real Estate & Mann Theaters. Site Plan for a retail development and a 12 -screen theater, Conditional Use Permit to allow two principal structures on one lot and a Variance for lot coverage for property located on the northeast comer of Vicksburg Lane and Highway 55. (97033) 7. OLD BUSINESS 8. NEW BUSINESS 9. ADJOURNMENT ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE X1-3 AGENDA MEETING NO. 60 Tuesday, 7:00 P.M. April 08,1997 Hadley Lake Room, Plymouth City Hall 7:00 P.M. Call to Order/Chair - Martin Frank 7:05 P.M. Review & Approval of Minutes 7:15 P.m Reports/Updates 7:15 P.M . Contractor Supervision / Fines for Violations: 7:25 P.M. • Basset Creek Watershed Update: Mayors Meetings, Location Change, citizen participation 7:35 P.M. . GAP's Response to FY 1998 $ Request 7:45 P.M • Native & Aquatic Landscape Project 7:50 P.M • Fertilizer Sale, Arrangement & $ 8:15 P.M. • Plymouth Environmental Business Partnership (PBEP): Survey Results 8:30 P.M. • Water Resources Management Plan 8:35 P.M. • Wetland Management Plan: 8:40 P.M. . Environmental Fair Update 8:50 P.M. . Information to AMLAC & Parsers Annual Newsletter 8:55 P.m. New Business Discussion 9:00 P.M Adjourn UCity_ply\vol MNG\W TRQLTY\MFNUTEs\april97.doc r 1 yp & 3 .,° DATE: April 4, 1997 TO: Members of the City Council Subcommittee FROM: John Sweeney, Transit Administrator SUBJECT: APRIL 9 MEETING The City Council Subcommittee on Transit is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, April 9 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. in the Medicine Lake Room on the upper level of Plymouth City Hall. The agenda for the meeting is as follows: Please note some materials will be distributed at the meeting. I. Call meeting to order - Chairperson, Mayor Joy Tierney. II. Discussion Re: How to proceed with implementing recommendations in the Public Transit Facilities Study including how projects can or should be coordinated with updating the City's comprehensive Plan. • Includes detailed implementation schedule and cost estimates. • Includes discussion of Public Informational Meeting proposed for Summer 1997. III. Discussion Re: Role of Transit Subcommittee and PACT. IV. Discussion and recommended action on the 1997 Regional Transit Capital (RTC) application (memo attached). V. Discussion Re: Future Transit Subcommittee agenda items and set future meeting times and dates. VI. Other comments. VII. Adjourn cc: Fred G. Moore Kathy Lueckert Barb Senness George Bentley Paul Colton, Metropolitan Council S.F. April 9, 1997 G: ENG\TRANS1nPAMM EMOS\Agendsub AGENDA City Council Subcommittee on Community Po/icing Wednesday, April 9, 1997 6:00 p.m. NOTE: Location change - Meeting will be in the Public Safety Training Room 2"d floor of Public Safety Building Call to order Il. Approval of minutes from March 12, 1997 meeting III. Meet with members of police department's internal Community Policing Committee IV. Set next meeting WIPAC14C WAYZATAIPLYMOUTH AREA CHEMICAL HEALTH COMMISSION 600 RICE STREET • WAYZATA, MINNESOTA 55391 • 612/473-0234 MEETING NOTICE Friday, April 11, 1997 7:00 a.m. Wayzata Schools District Administration Building Conference Room 210 County Road 101 North Plymouth, Minnesota A. Introductions B. Review agenda C. Review and approve minutes, Secretary's report D. Treasurer's report E. Jamie Sherwood, Activities Director, Wayzata Senior High F. School updates and Youth Leadership Strategies G. College Issues H. Public Safety Update I. Long Range Planning - Getting Back Together J. Other business K. Future agenda items L. ADJOURNMENT Next WPACHC MEETING: May 9, 1997, 7:00 a.m. �%-S PLEASE DON'T DO NOTHING Oyu �1 0 b Q� h 00 h I ..� �o/O¢U P Cd F w m I �1 nPH 1 CL 'a aU ipz -- (u Z e I" in o $ of N Cd CA Q� v au j U zg vi i0-1 C/1I ILS. V II =)U y 0.11 NII=G/1 NI im� a� con ;o UI o c on:Ol „ b M Ncri O M J. uli vfc Ell.3 :Once OUp,y\ ii: -3' rnZ �I.ut-?ter UZ'$ 9 l/[{ ';-HF�y Z i 111��� Z�I�EGI � UI I Ip OE'II i; 31- gip` jai. 00 zi I ~ ;��� N zI'I N Cd 'd ILA .8 Izo ;Qin a ��I IoWfnL z�(� 8 zo A �iN ICL�V O o u i ld ImF-�Y r1 ILL IoUU;gu O�N o U.E oUU� c� b 10 I X31 „�PN �, cri i fn era�ero i I -J Oyu �1 0 b Q� h I — C) CN 0 0 Ncl M =N > =\Lai oW� Vl . o OX �zac�r.n I n. O Cd 7:$ 'i c 00 n CN N N z s r N i66 "d z�}� U i�mF e' 10DU $ I� I� .�>av IZyyz i .0 U a� Fv�t�x YI IVzul.�I �'Llu� a v ' 4.bnHn '3P==A ' N N r ,� NA zZ.9z I� QO,=a� a v1 U2 jz G4 O �._I ai j °u�$� a �OU�' Cl.iii . CD C %'J° iNn U NPA d I F. onH Z p�NN yi ���� ^• 00 N i� CN 0 0 I'18 Wayzata Plymouth Area Chemical Health Commission Minutes March 14, 1997 Members Present: Dave Hadden, Mandy Little, Donna Marget, Bill Nelson, Martha Anderson (recorder), Sharon Driscoll, Gary Swedborg, Craig Gerdes, Tim McCarthy, Bill Albinson. In the absence of Jeyn Hofacker, Donna Marget chaired the meeting. Today's agenda and the minutes from February 14, 1997 were both approved. The Treasurer reported a balance of $2,241.17. School Updates A. WHS: Judy Hanson is on board as Chemical Health worker at WHS Monday through Thursday. The Insights groups are up and running. The program is being re-established. B. Junior Highs: The American Broadcasting Company's "March Against Drugs" is on this month and has been publicized at the schools. The leadership conferences and training are complete at both schools. C. General: $15,000 new grant money has been awarded to fine tune the drug prevention curriculum; Chief Gerdes stated the Police programs DARE and gang and violence prevention education will interface with the curriculum. College Issues Dave Hadden reported on progress at some local colleges to provide broad spectrum, integrated after-care services in chemically -free residences for students in recovery. Martha Anderson reported on the Post Secondary Chemical Health Conference she attended February 28. The conference was intended as a sharing session for chemical health workers and programs at Minnesota colleges. A sourcebook, "Promising Practices: Campus Alcohol Strategies" has been ordered. Public Safety Compliance checks will be run in Plymouth and Wayzata during March, April and May. The Commission expressed thanks for police monitoring of parties. Provider Meeting On March 7 the Commission hosted a luncheon for local service providers in order to learn more of what each is doing and how it relates to others, and how the Commission might be helpful. Nearly 50 invitations were sent. Many service providers sent comments by mail, and representatives from Teens Alone, ECFE, CICC, Episcopal Church, and Wayzata and Plymouth Police Departments attended. It was agreed that there is a community -wide need for more parental education, services that need to be personal and tailored to specific needs. There is also a need to articulate community -wide values; Eden Prairie has already done this, and we agreed to send for their document. Minutes from this meeting are available. The Commission felt strongly that resuming the regular meetings among the pastors and leaders of the local churches would be beneficial. Gary Swedborg moved and Martha Anderson seconded a motion to allocate up to $250 for food for such meetings. Next meeting Our April 11 meeting will include discussion of our relationship to service providers; rather than more meetings we may plan more contact by mail. At our next meting we may also discuss the proposed District policies regarding chemical abuse. CITY OF PLYMOUTH PLANNING COMMISSION NIINUTES MARCH 25, 1997 -fib MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Mike Stulberg, Commissioners John Stoebner, Jeffrey Thompson (arrived at 7:03 p.m.), Allen Ribbe, Bob Stein, and Kim Koehnen MEMBERS ABSENT: Commissioner Roger Berkowitz STAFF PRESENT: Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt, Planning Supervisor Barb Senness, Planners Shawn Drill, Kendra Lindahl, and John Rask, Public Works Director Fred Moore, City Engineer Dan Faulkner, and Clerical Supervisor Denise Hutt 1. CALL TO ORDER: 2. PUBLIC FORUM: 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: 4. APPROVAL OF 1VIINUTES: Chairman Stulberg requested that an additional sentence be added to Page #60, Paragraph #4 stating that "Chairman Stulberg explained that he made the motion for approval because he did not want a negative motion put on the table." MOTION by Commissioner Koehnen, seconded Commissioner Stoebner to approve the March 11, 1997 Planning Commission Minutes as amended. Vote. 3 Ayes. (Commissioners Ribbe and Stein abstained). 5. CONSENT AGENDA: A. HENNEPIN COUNTY PROPERTY SERVICES (97020) MOTION by Commissioner Ribbe, seconded by Commissioner Koehnen recommending approval of a Site Plan Amendment for Hennepin County for the Driving Range Facility located at the Adult Correctional Facility, 1145 Shenandoah Lane North. Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS: Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #66 A. CITY OF PLYMOUTH (96106) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by the City of Plymouth for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment to the City Water Supply Plan. Public Works Director Moore gave an overview of the March 20, 1997 staff report. Commissioner Thompson asked what the adjustable rate on usage is based on. Director Moore explained that they use a mean average of a typical single family household's usage. Commissioner Thompson commented that he has been in a city where they used that structure, and it doesn't make sense. Commissioner Stein questioned if the 10 percent unaccounted water use is normal. Director Moore replied that it is not abnormal. He added that the water flushing could account for five percent. Chairman Stulberg opened and closed the public hearing as there was no one present to speak on the issue. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Stoebner recommending approval of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment for the City of Plymouth for adoption of the Conservation and Emergency Management Plan. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. B. CITY OF PLYMOUTH (97017) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by the City of Plymouth for Rezoning of five commercial lots from C-1 (Convenience Commercial District) to C-2 (Neighborhood Commercial District) for 11520, 11530, 11540, 11550, and 11610 County Road 10. Planner Lindahl gave an overview of the March 19, 1997 staff report. Commissioner Thompson asked if staff is recommending approval because the Zoning Map must be consistent with the Land Use Guide Plan. He asked if the current use is non -conforming. Planner Lindahl explained that when the City revised the Zoning Ordinance and Map in 1996, the City rezoned each parcel to the new district that most closely paralleled the existing district and limited non -conformities. Under the current C-1 (Convenience Commercial) zoning, the existing liquor store and restaurant are non -conforming uses. The C-2 (Neighborhood Commercial) zoning district is a better fit for this site, as it more closely parallels the previous B-2 zoning district. It should have been rezoned to C-2 last December as it was the closest designation to the previous B-2 zoning district. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 b Page #67 Chairman Stulberg opened the public hearing. Chairman Stulberg introduced Dwight Tschetter of 15815 Sunset Road. Mr. Tschetter stated that he has made an offer to purchase the property. He commented that zoning the property as C-1 was an error, and that the C-2 zoning is more appropriate for the current uses. Chairman Stulberg closed the public hearing. MOTION by Commissioner Ribbe, seconded by Commissioner Koehnen recommending approval of an Ordinance amending Chapter 21 of the City Code to classify certain lands located north of Bass Lake Road, west of Zachary Lane and east of Hemlock Lane from C-1 (Convenience Commercial) to C-2 (Neighborhood Commercial) and the Findings of Fact for Rezoning of five commercial lots located north of Bass Lake Road and West of Zachary Lane. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. C. CITY OF PLYMOUTH (97018) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by the City of Plymouth for Rezoning of 12 residential lots from P -I (Public/Institutional District) to RSF-2 (Single Family Detached Dwelling District 2) for property located south of 23`d Avenue, north of West Medicine Lake Park, and west of Medicine Lake Drive West. Planner Lindahl gave an overview of the March 19, 1997 staff report. Chairman Stulberg asked how these parcels were missed. Director Hurlburt explained that several things were used, including the GIS (Geographical Information System) when staff prepared the new zoning map. Typically, anything south of 23rd Avenue shows as a park, and these parcels were picked up as such. Staff did not check every individual parcel when the new zoning map was prepared. Director Hurlburt stated that there may be other minor errors that staff have not caught, but they will be brought forward as they are discovered. This particular situation was raised by one of the residents that was going to improve their property and called to check on the zoning. Chairman Stulberg opened the public hearing. Chairman Stulberg introduced Steve Chase of 11901-23`d Avenue North. Mr. Chase asked if the City is going to make the alley a usable road or has any intention of turning it over to the residents to maintain. As it is, there are four homes that are affected by the alley, and do not have appropriate access to their garages. He stated that he would like the City to abandon the alley so the residents can get to their garages. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #68 Chairman Stulberg introduced Roger Meyerhofr of 11825-231 Avenue. Mr. Meyerhofr asked if the city had wanted to own these properties at one time. He stated that he wants to make repairs to his property, but is limited as to what he can do. Chairman Stulberg closed the public hearing. City Engineer Faulkner stated the city has no plans of doing anything with the alley at this time. The residents would need to make a formal, written request to vacate it, then the city would consider it. He stated that he has seen a request previously, but has no formal position on it at this time. Director Hurlburt commented that the vacation of the alley would be a separate action from the rezoning. Director Hurlburt stated that the boundaries of the park on the Comprehensive Plan have always been larger, and if the parcels were to become tax delinquent, the city would probably accept them. She said that prior to the new zoning ordinance, there wasn't a district for parks. She indicated that the city does not have any plans at this time to purchase the lots in question. MOTION by Commissioner Koehnen, seconded by Commissioner Thompson recommending approval of an Ordinance amending Chapter 21 of the City Code to classify certain lands located north of West Medicine Lake Park, west of Medicine Lake Drive, and south of 23rd Avenue North from P -I (Public/Institutioml) to RSF-2 (Single Family Detached 2) and the Findings of Fact for Rezoning of 12 residential lots located north of West Medicine Lake Park, south of 23'd Avenue and west of Medicine Lake Drive North. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. D. JANCO, INC. (96150) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by Janco, Inc. for a Land Use Guide Plan Amendment, Rezoning, Conditional Use Permit, Variances and Preliminary Plat for 19 single family detached homes and 46 multi -family homes known as Conor Meadows, Plat Two, for property located northeast of Peony Lane and the Soo Line Railroad. Planner Drill began his overview of the March 18, 1997 staff report. City Engineer Faulkner gave an overview and history of Schmidt Lake Road. Chairman Stulberg asked how the residents south of County Road 9 would gain access to the north. City Engineer Faulkner indicated that they would go up new Holly Lane and then back to the east to an intersection. Director Hurlburt asked what would cause Holly Lane to be changed from its current alignment. City Engineer Faulkner replied that an expansion of Hollydale Golf Course could cause the change. The single family residence south of the golf course would be affected, but they have been included in discussions of the realignment of Holly Lane. Commissioner Koehnen asked if there are any changes proposed to the railroad line. City Engineer Faulkner replied negatively, as it is a main railroad line. Commissioner Stein wanted to know if the section of Schmidt Lake Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #69 Road, east of Holly Lane would be built now. City Engineer Faulkner replied that it is not scheduled for construction yet, and is not currently listed in the five year Capital Improvement Program. He added that it is unlikely that it will be completed until the determination is made as to what will happen in northwest Plymouth until right-of-way is dedicated. Planner Drill continued with the overview of the March 18, 1997 staff report. Commissioner Thompson asked what the bump is in the u -shape on the plat. Planner Drill replied that it is additional right-of-way. Commissioner Ribbe asked if the City has any responsibility or authority over the private entrances if they are approved. Planner Drill responded negatively, and added that they would be maintained by the homeowner's association. Commissioner Ribbe asked if this proposal makes it necessary for the relocation of Holly Lane. Planner Drill replied that this proposal allows for that to happen. It would be stubbed to allow for future expansion. Director Hurlburt commented that this proposal doesn't require Holly Lane to be realigned, but it does allow for it to happen. Existing Holly Lane would remain to the east of the tracks, and placed so that it could be the new crossing if the City decided to do that in the future. Commissioner Thompson asked about the feasibility of continuing the fence for the entire length of the project. Planner Drill replied that there may be some opportunities to include a fence further east. Commissioner Stoebner asked if safety and access had been addressed with regard to the private drives. Planner Drill responded that it was addressed by the Fire Inspector through the Development Review Committee (DRC) process. Commissioner Koehnen asked what the reason is for the fence. Planning Supervisor Senness replied that it is primarily for screening. The developer proposed the fence, which was not required. Commissioner Thompson asked if staff sees any potential safety problems with multi -family homes in close proximity to the railroad tracks. Planning Supervisor Senness stated that the intent of the setback is to achieve a reasonable distance for safety issues. Director Hurlburt added that it is impossible to completely fence a railroad track. Chairman Stulberg introduced Tom Graham, the petitioner. Mr. Graham introduced Mike Gair, representing the petitioner. Mr. Gair gave an overview of the plan for Schmidt Lake Road. Mr. Gair stated that Holly Lane will remain in its current alignment until property is vacated and the proper alignment can be made through Conor Meadows Two. Conor Meadows Two is a continuation east from Conor Meadows. Mr. Gair explained that the outlot is for potential townhomes that will be held until the looping of roads can be continued. Mr. Gair commented that Mr. Graham concurs with the staff report and related conditions. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #70 Commissioner Thompson asked about the feasibility of continuing the fence. Mr. Gair explained that there is a dramatic drop off point, but stated that Mr. Graham would be willing to consider additional fencing if the Commission deems it appropriate. He added that the evergreen trees are a landmark for Mr. Graham's developments and serve as a very nice buffer. The evergreens would be 10 feet tall and placed 15 feet on center along both the northern and southern edges of the project. Chairman Stulberg opened the public hearing. Chairman Stulberg introduced Lisa Gustafson of 5185 Holly Lane. Ms. Gustafson stated that she is against the proposal due to the extreme high density and the noise and traffic that the project will bring to the area. She stated that low income housing will reduce their property values. She stated that it appears that the townhomes will have access to their easement and their private road. She stated that they would like a barrier to prevent them from using the dirt road. Ms. Gustafson commented that they want to maintain their direct access to County Road 9. They want to continue to have a bus turn around, and if the mailboxes have to be relocated, they don't want it at their expense. She stated that her biggest concern is that they will be subjected to noise, exhaust and light pollution and a diminution of property values because of the change in route. Chairman Stulberg introduced Tom Quanbeck of 5155 Holly Lane North. Mr. Quanbeck stated that he is concerned with the density. He asked if the development would be built as proposed. He suggested that the City should consider something more than 500 feet for property notices. He asked what other means are available to residents to find out about upcoming projects. Chairman Stulberg introduced Roger Schmidt of 4835 Holly Lane North. Mr. Schmidt stated that he concerned about safety, and asked if it is necessary to have another railroad crossing. Chairman Stulberg introduced Harry Wickman of 4935 Holly Lane North. Mr. Wickman stated his concern about additional traffic on Holly Lane and the railroad crossing with the new high school in close proximity. Chairman Stulberg closed the public hearing. Pertaining to the easement, City Engineer Faulkner stated that the easement would remain status quo pertaining to the bus turn around and the mail drop. He commented that the city will need to look at providing access. Residents in Conor Meadows Two would not have a right to use the road. Planner Drill pointed out the present Holly Lane and the configuration of the proposed townhomes. He stated that the townhomes in the outlot wouldn't be built until Holly Lane is realigned. Mr. Gair stated that the Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #71 grading of the entire property would be done at one time. He added that there could be some control built into the homeowner's association pertaining to access and berming. Director Hurlburt asked if there is an easement on the outlot. Mr. Gair replied affirmatively. Director Hurlburt suggested that unless the easement is vacated, the townhomes can't be built. Mr. Gair replied affirmatively. Commissioner Thompson asked if the applicant would be black -topping the area. Mr. Gair replied not until the easement is vacated. Planner Drill stated that the application includes rezoning and plat approval. If the applicant decided at some point not to pursue the plat, the property would remain RMF -2. If someone else wants to build, they would have to reapply for a plat. Pertaining to property notices, Director Hurlburt stated that up until three years ago, notices were sent to property owners within 350 feet, now it is 500 feet. The City publishes notices in the official city newspaper and places a development sign on the property for those that are not within 500 feet. Director Hurlburt stated that the notification system will be looked at in the near future, and if anyone has suggestions on an appropriate distance, they should contact staff. She stated that the city will begin publishing agendas on the web site. City Engineer Faulkner stated that if Holly Lane was to be relocated, he would anticipate crossing gates at the new Holly Lane to improve safety. He stated that there is no intention to close existing crossings. City Engineer Faulkner said that staff needs to look into preventing access to the private road. Ms. Gustafson commented that the Holly Lane alignment on the plat is incorrect. Director Hurlburt stated that it would be appropriate to add a condition to make sure that there is no direct access from the proposed plat onto the private road. Commissioner Ribbe commented that the crossing signals would have to be approved by the railroad. City Engineer Faulkner commented that it would have to be a cooperative effort with the railroad, and it is likely that the city would have to pay the majority of the cost. He added that there are federal funds available for safety improvements. Chairman Stulberg stated that a lot will hinge on the development of northwest Plymouth. Director Hurlburt stated that staff will be looking at the transportation plan next year. At that time, one of the issues will be if Holly Lane will need to continue north of Schmidt Lake Road. That decision is not being made with this development, but it does give that alternative. Commissioner Stein stated that traffic leaving the high school would not normally go east on Schmidt Lake Road since it is not being constructed east of Holly Lane. City Engineer Faulkner stated that Schmidt Lake Road will be constructed to 100 feet east of Holly Lane. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #72 MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Stoebner recommending approval of a Land Use Guide Plan Amendment for Janco, Inc. for property located north of the Soo Line Railway and east of Peony Lane and the Rezoning and the Findings of Fact for Rezoning of land located north of the Soo Line Railway and east of Peony Lane from FRD (Future Restricted Development) to RMF -2 (Multiple Family 2). Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. MOTION by Chairman Stulberg, seconded by Commissioner Thompson recommending approval of a Preliminary Plat for Janco, Inc. for property located north of the Soo Line Railway and east of Peony Lane. MOTION to Amend by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Koehnen to add new condition prohibiting access from the plat onto the Holly Lane easement. Roll Call Vote on MOTION to Amend. 6 Ayes. MOTION approved on a unanimous vote. MOTION to Amend by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Ribbe to add a condition requiring continuation of the fencing along the southern edge of the project. Commissioner Ribbe commented that with the homes so close to railroad, the city should require whatever they can to ensure the safety of children. Commissioner Thompson stated that the request is not an indication to criticize the proposal, as the developer has done a good job, but rather an additional safety measure. Mr. Graham indicated that he is willing to go along with the concept and asked if a cyclone fence weaved through the southern edge would be appropriate. Director Hurlburt asked how tall would the fence be. Mr. Graham replied six feet. Commissioners concurred with Mr. Graham's suggestion. Roll Call Vote on MOTION to Amend. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. Roll Call Vote on Main MOTION. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. MOTION by Chairman Stulberg, seconded by Commissioner Thompson recommending approval of a Conditional Use Permit and Variances for Janco, Inc. for property located north of the Soo Line Railway and east of Peony Lane. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. Chairman Stulberg called a recess at 8:44 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:00 p.m. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #73 t E. HOYT PROPERTIES, INC. (97003) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by Hoyt Properties, Inc. for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Rezoning, Planned Unit Development General Plan, and Preliminary Plat to allow construction of five office/industrial buildings totaling 213,943 square feet on five lots for property located at the northwest quadrant of Interstate 494 and Schmidt Lake Road. Planner Rask gave an overview of the March 19, 1997 staff report. He noted an error in the Preliminary Plat and PUD General Plan resolution and that item #10h. should be deleted. Commissioner Thompson questioned if the proposal includes a variance, since reference was made to it only once on the fust page of the staff report. Planner Rask stated that the requirement to have frontage on a public street is in the Subdivison Ordinance, and that is why the applicant wanted to go with a PUD. Internal setbacks, shared driveways and parking, and street frontage requirements could not be achieved under the current zoning. He stated that the city is allowed more flexibility under the PUD with respect to protection of sensitive natural features. Commissioner Thompson asked if the application is a variance. Director Hurlburt replied that it is intertwined as part of the PUD. This is an example of an outdated Subdivision Ordinance and the relationship with the new Zoning Ordinance. Chairman Stulberg introduced Gary Lally, the petitioner. My Lally presented a colored site plan. He stated that they are trying to be sensitive to the residents on the south side of Schmidt Lake Road and TURK, Inc. You can drive all around the buildings and not see a loading dock. The buildings will be all brick except for rear loading dock areas. Chairman Stulberg opened the public hearing. Chairman Stulberg introduced Kristine Erickson of 4815 Cheshire Lane North. Ms. Erickson stated that she lives in the Savannah development and was told that it was zoned light industrial that would consist of businesses that would operate during the day only. She asked who the potential tenants would be. She wanted to know if there is a plan for an interchange on Interstate 494 and Schmidt Lake Road and questioned the traffic patterns to this project. She voiced her appreciation for the proposed landscaping. Mr. Lally and Planner Rask talked about possible tenants/businesses that would be allowed with this proposal. Planner Rask stated that the uses would be similar to the I- 1 (Light Industrial) district. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #74 Planner Rask stated that the interchange for Interstate 494 and Schmidt Lake Road is not listed in the Capital Improvement Plan for the next five years. Director Hurlburt commented that the area could be similar to the PDQ center located at County Road 9 and Interstate 494, which is an example of C-2 zoning. Commissioner Thompson asked if a newspaper distribution center, similar to the one currently at the Plymouth Ponds center, would be allowed. Director Hurlburt replied the definition is "over 50,000 square feet", and it would be allowed on existing Lot 3 if it was less than that in size. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Stoebner recommending approval of a Land Use Guide Plan Amendment, Ordinance Amending Chapter 21 of the City Code to classify certain lands, and the Findings of Fact for Rezoning from I-1 (Light Industrial), I-2 (General Industrial) and C-2 (Neighborhood Commercial) to PUD (Planned Unit Development) for Hoyt Properties, Inc. for property located north of Schmidt Lake Road and west of I-494. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Koehnen recommending approval of a Preliminary Plat and Planned Unit Development General Plan, as amended by deleting item #10h for Hoyt Properties, Inc. for property located north of Schmidt Lake Road and west of I-494. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. F. SIDNEY BRENNAN (97004) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by Sidney Brennan for a Preliminary Plat and Final Plat to replat Lot 11, Block 6, Sunny Acres 2' Addition, and Outlot B, Sunny Acres 3'd Addition for the creation of two lots, and a Variance from the minimum lot size standards. The purpose of the request is to construct a single family dwelling on the newly created lot for property located at 17105 24`' Avenue North, east of Holly Lane. Planner Lindahl gave an overview of the March 20, 1997 staff report. Commissioner Thompson questioned if it was true that an applicant does not have to meet all of the variance criteria in order to be approved. Planner Lindahl replied affirmatively. Chairman Stulberg introduced Sidney Brennan of 17105-24' Avenue, the petitioner. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #75 Mr. Brennan stated that he has owned the property since 1969, and his intent is to exercise his right to subdivide his lot. He asked if there is any developer that doesn't wish to benefit monetarily He stated that his lot is unique because of the outlot and believes that he has met each of the variance standards. Mr. Brennan stated that he can stipulate covenants on the value of the house to be built. Mr. Brennan stated that when he purchased the outlot, he knew that the lots in Fazendin were smaller than the minimum standards. He stated that Mr. Leppla had wanted to purchase a portion of his lot for his driveway. Director Hurlburt asked for clarification of how long he has owned the property. Mr. Brennan replied that the property has been in joint ownership with his parents since 1969, and he purchased the outlot in 1995. Chairman Stulberg opened the public hearing. Chairman Stulberg indicated that the city received letters from Alan Wendler of 17205- 23' Avenue North dated March 16, 1997, Susan & Craig Rohlf of 17335 23' Avenue North dated March 18, 1997, Jay Leppla of 2200 Holly Lane dated March 19, 1997, and Mary Norris of 2240 Holly Lane North dated March 19, 1997, all in opposition to the proposal. Chairman Stulberg also introduced letters from Mervin & Geraldine Winston of 2205 Holly Lane dated March 23, 1997, John Haurykiewicz of 17210 24' Avenue North dated March 24, 1997, Gloria & Hal Biermann of 17225 24' Avenue North, dated March 21, 1997, Doug & Marilynn Grant of 17005 24' Avenue North dated March 25, 1997, Betty Bacon of 2410 Holly Lane dated March .25, 1997, Anthony Schumacher of 17110 24' Avenue North dated March 20, 1997, and a petition signed by 22 people opposing the proposal. Chairman Stulberg introduced Jay Leppla of 2200 Holly Lane. Mr. Leppla stated that he represents a group of homeowners from Willow Bend, and Sunny Acres 2 and 3' Additions. Mr. Leppa stated that Outlots A and B are privately owned. Outlot A is owned by the Willow Bend Association and is maintained by them. These outlots were designed by an agreement in which the Brennan family was a major participant in the early 1970s. According to city records, the outlots were established because they were too small to build on .in comparison to the surrounding lots. Mr. Leppla stated that even though the proposal meets the minimum setback requirements, it would not match the minimums existing on the other corner lots or of the direct neighborhood. The maximum house size which could be placed on Outlot B would not match or reflect the neighborhood. This construction would also set a precedent and allow additional homes to be constructed on Outlot A which has more buildable land. Mr. Leppla stated that Mr. Brennan was a strong advocate of keeping the lot the way it was. He stated that Mr. Brennan has known all along the problems, restrictions and limitations regarding Oudot B before he purchased it. He said that Mr. Brennan is currently in the process of building a house in Orono and would be selling his current house. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #76 Chairman Stulberg introduced Bev Coyne of 17230-24' Avenue North. Ms. Coyne ceded to Mr. Leppla. Chairman Stulberg introduced Fred Coyne of 17230-24' Avenue North. Mr. Coyne ceded to Mr. Leppla. Chairman Stulberg introduced William Davis of 17205-24t° Avenue North. Mr. Davis stated that he was involved with Sidney Brennan Sr., regarding the property and making sure that the outlots were not built on. Mr. Davis stated that the proposal does not conform with the surrounding properties. If this variance is granted, the Willow Bend Association could then request a variance for their outlot. Chairman Stulberg introduced Shame Flaig of 2415 Holly Lane. Ms. Flaig ceded to Mr. Leppla. Chairman Stulberg introduced Cal Flaig of 2415 Holly Lane. Mr. Flaig ceded to Mr. Leppla. Chairman introduced Chris Garin of 17215-23' Avenue North. Mr. Garin ceded to Mr. Leppla. Chairman Stulberg introduced Kari Miller of 2215 Holly Lane North. Ms. Miller ceded to Mr. Leppla. Chairman Stulberg introduced B. J. Miller of 2215 Holly Lane North. Mr. Miller stated that all seven of the variance criteria must be met, and the applicant only has met one of them. He stated that the applicant knew when he purchased the outlot, he was aware of the restrictions. Mr. Miller said that the easement and potential drainage to the south could devalue the property. Mr. Miller commented that the applicant has not demonstrated a hardship. Chairman Stulberg introduced Mary Norris of 2240 Holly Lane North. Ms. Norris ceded to Mr. Leppla. Chairman Stulberg introduced John Norris of 2240 Holly Lane North. Mr. Norris ceded to Mr. Leppla. Chairman Stulberg introduced Anthony Shumacher of 17110-24`h Avenue North. Mr. Shumacher ceded to Mr. Leppla. Chairman Stulberg introduced Mervin Winston of 2205 Holly Lane. Mr. Winston stated that the proposal is also an issue of safety. The outlot has served as a bus stop for the children and has provided good visibility of the children. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 ,.— Page #77 Chairman Stulberg closed the public hearing. Chairman Stulberg stated what someone does, where they live or where they are going to live, is not taken into account by the Commission or City Council. Chairman Stulberg didn't believe he was being deceived by Mr. Brennan. Director Hurlburt just cleared up a question of how long he has owned the outlot. Pertaining to safety issues, sight lines, and the school bus stop, Planner Lindahl commented that the outlot is privately owned and the front yard setbacks apply on Holly Lane and County Road 24 which gives clear visibility. Chairman Stulberg noted that since the outlot is privately owned, the children could be restricted from waiting for the bus. Commissioner Ribbe commented that the opposition seems to be the anticipation of what is going to be built, and that the applicant indicated the willingness to place a covenant on what can be built. Chairman Stulberg stated that it is not appropriate to discuss what exactly would be built, only if variance standards are met, or not. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Stoebner recommending denial of a Preliminary Plat and Variance for Sidney Brennan for property located at the southeast quadrant of Holly Lane and 24th Avenue North. Commissioner Thompson stated that it is not relevant where the applicant is going to live, only whether the hardship was self created. The variance standards are clear, and the applicant has not shown an undue hardship. There is no indication of uniqueness that would support the variance. The purpose of the request is to increase the value. Chairman Stulberg commented that the hardship is caused by the applicant and that is the overriding factor. Commissioner Koehnen concurred. Commissioner Stein stated that if this request was approved, it may create a precedent for other lots. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. G. TOBIN REAL ESTATE (97013) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by Tobin Real Estate for a Planned Unit Development General Plan Amendment and Interim Use Permit to construct an 80,000 square foot medical building to the existing West Health, complex located at 2855 Campus Drive. Planner Drill gave an overview of the March 19, 1997 staff report. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #78 Chairman Stulberg introduced Tom Sexton, the petitioner. Mr. Sexton stated that he concurs with the staff report. Chairman Stulberg opened and closed the public hearing as there was no one present to speak on the issue. MOTION by Commissioner Stoebner, seconded by Commissioner Thompson recommending approval of a Planned Unit Development General Plan Amendment and Interim Use Permit for Tobin Real Estate Company for property lcoated at the northeast comer of Highway 55 and Interstate 494. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. H. HOMESTEAD VILLAGE, INC. (97016) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by Homestead Village, Inc. for an Ordinance amending the O -R (Office Residential) Zoning District to allow extended stay hotels. Planner Rask gave an overview of the March 19, 1997 staff report. Commissioner Koehnen asked if the definition limits someone from staying less that one week. Planner Rask replied that the definition is based on state statute and the difference between an extended hotel and a hotel is the cooking facilities. Director Hurlburt said that it should not prohibit someone from renting for five days, but the definition is needed to clarify the intent. Chairman Stulberg introduced Paul Crabtree, the petitioner. Mr. Crabtree stated that he concurs with the staff report, but would like to get a better definition, so that it does not prohibit them from renting on a three or four day basis to companies that may be having a business conference. He explained that with an extended hotel, they do not advertise a daily rate. A discussion ensued between the Commissioners and staff as to whether the definition would prohibit the applicant from renting rooms for less than one week. The intent is to advertise a weekly rate, but the city can't prohibit them from quoting rates less than a week. It would be too hard for the city to police advertising and quoting of prices. A Conditional Use Permit can be revoked if it is abused. Director Hurlburt suggested that the definition could be changed to "A building or structure intended as...". Mr. Crabtree said that wording would be acceptable to him. Planning Commission Minutes March 25, 1997 Page #79 Chairman Stulberg stated that he would be willing to approve it as is, but before going to City Council, staff and the applicant could work on the wording. Commisioner Thompson asked if language could be added that says no less than three consecutive nights. Planning Supervisor Senness replied that a week is where an extended stay hotel is focused on. Chairman Stulberg opened and closed the public hearing as there was no one present to speak on the issue. MOTION by Commissioner Koehnen, seconded by Commissioner Ribbe recommending approval of an Amendment to Chapter 21 of the Plymouth City Code (Definitions and Office/Residential Transition Zoning District) including the change in the wording of the definition to include the word "intended", and to have staff check with the city attorney and work with the applicant on more appropriate or clearer language and the Findings of Fact for Amending Section 21005 and 21450 of the Plymouth City Code. Commissioner Thompson stated his preference for tabling the application until such time that the city attorney and staff can work on more appropriate wording and bring it back to the Commission. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson to table the application. MOTION failed due to a lack of a second. Roll Call Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION approved on a 5-1 vote. (Commissioner Thompson voted nay.) 7. OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Koehnen thanked the city for sending her to the planning commission seminar. Commissioner Stein concurred. Commissioner Thompson stated his concern with the approval of the Homestead Village, Inc. application as the motion was too broad to tackle it. Director Hurlburt replied that if there are substantial changes, it would be brought back to the Planning Commission to approve on an informal basis. MOTION by Commissioner Koehnen, seconded by Chairman Stulberg to adjourn. Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION was approved on a unanimous vote. The meeting was adjourned at 10:48 p.m. --�- iC�, Unapproved Plymouth Human Rights Commission April 3, 1997 Minutes Present: Howard Sigal, Jackie Fraedrich, Harvey Guttmann, Mitzi Heath, Laurie Levi, Frenchie Henderson, Assistant City Manager Kathy Lueckert Excused: Jeff Richards, Claudelle Carruthers Visitor: Ron Hennes Call to Order Howard Sigal called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. Approval of Agenda The agenda was approved as presented. Approval of Minutes The minutes of the March 1997 meeting were approved as presented. Old Business Calendar of Events. Howard Sigal reviewed the rolling calendar of events and verified the dates of Music in Plymouth and the Autumn Arts Fair. Random Acts of Kindness. Howard Sigal explained the program as envisioned by former HRC chair Gary Anderson. The Plymouth Crime and Fire Prevention Fund will assist and co-sponsor the program. The program will not have much publicity, as the goal is to inspire random acts of kindness in the community. The HRC had general discussion about the program, how it relates to the mission of the HRC, and the amount of energy and effort required to make it successful. The HRC agreed that this program might be a good way of involving student multi -cultural groups, and have it focus on kind acts that are related to diversity issues. Harvey Guttmann will call the City of Alexandria (where the program was implemented) and get some additional information. Regional Workshop. Jackie Fraedrich announced that the regional school workshop is scheduled for Friday, May 9, 1997. The HRC viewed the video developed by Armstrong High students "Daring to be Different .... A Vision of Diversity" which will be the main event of the workshop. The HRC discussed the details of the workshop and mailing. At the end of the workshop, the HRC will seek interested students who might want to serve on the commission. Community Education. Mitzi Heath reported that she had contacted those individuals who had applied for HRC vacancies but had not been appointed, and nearly all said they were interested in helping with commission activities. The visitor, Ron Hennes, is one of these individuals. Mitzi Heath and Laurie Levi will meet with these individuals on Thursday, April 17 at 7 pm to discuss ways of developing a Speaker's Bureau and furthering the NRC's community education programs. Frenchie Henderson also volunteered to work on developing a speakers' bureau. New Business There was no new business to come before the Commission. For Information Kathy Lueckert announced that the City Council had proclaimed May 4 as Yom HaShoah, the Day of Remembrance, and that city publications would announce it. Kathy Lueckert also stated that the City Council will consider changes to the City Code and HRC Bylaws to permit student members on April 16. She called the HRC's attention to the other announcements and information items. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m. The next Human Rights Commission meeting is May 1, 1997 at 7:30 p.m. Plymouth Subcommittee on. Community Po/icing Minutes of Meeting March 12, 1997 6:00 p.m. Present at the meeting were Councilmembers Christian Preus, and Tim Bildsoe, City Manager Dwight Johnson, Citizen Kim Koehnen, Chief Craig Gerdes, Sgt. Mike Goldstein, and Public Safety Tech Svcs Supervisor Barb Cox. Councilmember Spigner was unable to attend. Chairman Preus called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. The first item on the agenda was approval of the minutes from the February 19, 1997 meeting. Councilmember Bildsoe moved for approval, Koehnen seconded. The motion was unanimously approved. With the next item on the agenda, the group decided to further the discussion on the mission and structure first and then look at the group's organization. Chief Gerdes noted that he was distributing a draft of information drawn up from the discussion at last month's meeting as a starting point for tonight's discussion. Koehnen stated she liked the format of the outline, but asked why the emphasis on the word "can" in the second paragraph. The Chief stated this was done more to show this is where items can come from and so these groups do not think they must send issues. Councilmember Preus asked if it should say, "can or are encouraged to". Koehnen asked if this meant all issues are referred by these methods. Preus asked if the list was all inclusive. Chief Gerdes and City Manager Johnson noted that the list should include committee members and a note that citizens may be get issues referred through a member of the group. There was a discussion on the mission statement itself. Councilmember Bildsoe indicated he thought it looked very good. Preus noted that it seems awfully general and broad until you get into the information below. Bildsoe stated that it was general, but he did not feel we want to be very specific yet and that can be changed as the committee develops. He added he would like to see the word "special" removed. Goldstein agreed and stated he thought the general idea is sound. Gerdes, noted perhaps we should change the word "special" to "select". Goldstein asked if some of this would change when we decide what type of group this will be. Gerdes stated there may be some changes, but they will be small. The next area of discussion was the Primary Areas of Interest. Johnson noted that under Community Education, he believed the fire prevention should be a separate bullet with especially carbon monoxide safety with it. Gerdes noted that we should also add Crime Prevention then. Koehnen added the specific identifier of 6 and 101 should be left out of the final draft. Preus asked if anyone had anything to add. Bildsoe stated this is a start and the group can add things as they develop. Bildsoe added that he does not know how to do it, but he would be interested in if there was some way to see how we can quantify performance, how we fair as a community. He added not specifically traffic issues, but how are we as compared to other surrounding cities with crimes like robbery and theft. Gerdes noted that theft is the number one crime by volume in our City, but comparisons are always difficult. Bildsoe noted that he understands that if you are doing your job effectively it can make your numbers higher. Cox noted that part of the difficulty with comparisons to other cities is that not all compile their statistics the same way. Also, for example in thefts, shoplifting and bad checks are included and some companies report these and some do not which would affect a City's numbers. Preus stated he also was interested in this information and asked if we could do a comparison with other cities. Johnson agreed and stated it sounded like it was worth doing and he would like to see it too. Gerdes stated we do have a lot of this type of information available and we could put together a document like we did last year which shows what we are and what we are doing. Johnson noted this should be added to the areas of interest, something like monitor public safety trends. Goldstein stated in his opinion the list is flexible and things will come and go. He added we should consider quantitative as well as qualitative issues. Johnson noted that depending on the make-up of the group, this document may not be written this detailed. If an ordinance is required, all of this information would not go in the ordinance, although we could have an attached memo with the information. In the items the group with not deal with, Koehnen stated she would like the parenthesis taken out and the phrase something like, "such as micro -managing." Gerdes noted we could also rephrase and note those issues would be referred to department staff. Preus asked if this information has been run past anyone else, such as the internal police and fire committees. Gerdes noted this document has not as it was a working draft. Goldstein noted he has discussed the information with the internal police committee and they had no recommendations. He added they would like to see a combined meeting for information. Bildsoe stated it is his understanding the internal group deals more with policies and special projects. Goldstein stated this is not necessarily true. Gerdes stated the internal group is more idea generated. Preus asked how many internal committees the department has. Gerdes stated we currently have 8 or 9 with some being more active than others. He stated the Community Policing Committee is one of the most active. Johnson stated he agreed it is a good idea to have a joint meeting with this group. All members agreed. There was discussion on what would be a good meeting time and whether it needed to be during the day. Goldstein stated the internal committee would work around this subcommittee's schedule. Preus stated he would then like to schedule a joint meeting for the next meeting. Koehnen asked if there were any glaring things that stick out from the internal group. Goldstein stated the primary areas of interest outlined are the areas the group is looking for support on. Gerdes discussed the internal group's current work on alcohol and tobacco compliance checks and discussed the option of subcommittee members participating. Johnson stated he believes it is important to ask the internal group for more things they want support on that we may have missed. Goldstein stated their list is everything we discussed. Bildsoe added it is good that we have to work to think of issues and have no glaring problems. There was then discussion on the type of group this should be. Koehnen asked what are the implications of the various types. Johnson indicated commissions are established by ordinance and report to and are established by City Council. They usually have a sense of permanency and are not limited to a certain term or a certain issue. Examples would be the Planning Commission and Park and Recreation Advisory Commission. The group decided that "board" does not apply and should not be considered. General discussion was the Committee and Subcommittee were essentially the same. Gerdes stated that this group is now a subcommittee of the City Council and that feels like it has a higher status than just a committee. Johnson noted that all commissions are completely citizens with a City Council liaison that is not a voting member. Bildsoe stated he would like to see this group be a committee for now with a goal of becoming a commission at some point in the future. Goldstein agreed and stated he believes we are a year or so away from the point where they could become a commission. Bildsoe added the group still needs to do some work to find its place and could then come up to a commission. Preus stated that we are then down to a committee or a subcommittee. He noted there does not seem to be much difference between these two. Gerdes stated he believes there is a certain connotation to the City Council Subcommittee if it were changed from Community Policing to Public Safety. It shows a combined effort of City Council, citizens, and staff working together in its title. Preus asked if either had a particular issue of their membership. Johnson stated no, but he believed we should have this discussion next month as Councilmember Spigner already has an item on the City Council agenda to discuss whether more committee need more citizens involved. Preus asked if there was any more input. Gerdes agreed that it should not be a commission now, that keeping Councilmembers as members of the group is very important. Goldstein stated he liked the connotation of the subcommittee as it sounds more like it is being embraced by the Council . W s i� Preus asked if all were in agreement that it should be a City Council Subcommittee. All agreed. Preus added that one of the goals would be that it eventually become a commission. Gerdes noted it is important that it be changed to the City Council Subcommittee on Public Safety. The makeup should include the fire department. He stated we should look at meeting with the internal police department community policing committee next, then meeting with the fire department. Preus agreed stating he would like us to schedule the internal police committee to the April meeting, then fire department in May. Johnson stated this should be good timing as the Fire Department is scheduled to have more information on their duty crew option by that time. Goldstein added he believes it is important to get someone from the Fire Department involved in this committee. Gerdes agreed and stated he would work with Chief Kline on this. Preus then asked about the time frame for the recommendation. He stated he believes we should wait until after the two meetings with internal staff, then have a meeting to fine tune and present our recommendations to the Council. Gerdes stated we can also start working on a work plan to bring in two replacement citizens for the two current positions and decide how many we would like to have. Bildsoe stated it might be a good idea for Chief Gerdes to sit down with Sally Thompson from the Sun Sailor and have them do a story on what this group is doing and try to recruit members. The group then picked a date for the next meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 91" at 6:00 p.m. n u Notes of the Plymouth City Council City Center Subcommittee Meeting April 2, 1997 A meeting of the Plymouth City Council City Center Subcommittee was called to order by Vice Chairperson Tierney at 5:37 p.m. in the Public Safety Training Room, 3400 Plymouth Blvd., on April 2, 1997. Subcommittee Members Present: Mayor Tierney; Councilmembers Spigner, Johnson, and Bildsoe. Subcommittee Members Absent: Councilmember Preus (Subcommittee Chairman) and Councilmember Black. Staff Present: City Manager Johnson, Assistant City Manager Lueckert, Community Development Director Hurlburt, Public Safety Director Gerdes, and City Clerk Ahrens. Others Present: Ken Streeter, Matt Streeter, Jack Day, Brad Lis, Jim Greupner, Steve Mann. Mayor Tierney explained that the purpose of this Subcommittee meeting is to discuss ways of encouraging an up -scale restaurant to locate in City Center. Review of Relevant language in the City Center Plan Community Development Director Hurlburt said the language in the City Center Plan indicates that City Center is to be a unique area that emphasizes people and their activities. A mix of uses during day and night is proposed, with desired architectural styles that relate to making City Center unique, rather than having a franchise look. The Zoning Ordinance allows for a restaurant in all of the City Center area, either by permitted or conditional use. Drive-through restaurants have been discouraged, and architectural standards attempt to follow through with a pedestrian orientation. Director Hurlburt said that there are several possible market aspects present in the City Center area: • Those going to work in City Center -- Coffee/bagels, Lunch, Take -Out. • Pre/Post movie crowd -- Family restaurant/casual. • Restaurant for "special night out." • Life Time Fitness/Hockey/Swim Meet crowd -- casual. Councilmembers added: Hang-out spot. Entertainment/music. Brad Lis said that there is immediate interest from a coffee/bagel type restaurant, lunch/deli-type restaurant, and family restaurant such as TGI Fridays or Applebees. Councilmember Bildsoe said that these needs are already served in the City. He would like to see development of something creative or unique on this site. j-040297 City Center Subcommittee April 2, 1997 Page 2 f - 1 (2-., Mr. Lis said he has approached a number of unique "up -scale" restaurants and their feeling is that this market is not sufficiently mature to support this type of restaurant. The risk is too great. They are not willing to locate in City Center because they feel it would be a bit ahead of the curve. Ken Streeter said that by the year 2000, 62 percent of people will be eating away from home. There is immediate demand for restaurants of the types noted by Mr. Lis. He said it takes a significant amount of investment money to start a restaurant in a free- standing building. Mr. Streeter said that if the Council turns away a restaurant that is in the caliber range of Applebees, etc., the restaurant industry in Plymouth would be setback. Other restaurants would be fearful of coming to City Center, if an established restaurant is not encouraged to locate here. He believes the key to attracting a unique restaurant is to create an environment in which a restaurant will want to come. If one or two restaurants are successful, more will follow. Mr. Streeter said the City has created barriers in the City Center plan by requiring such things as flat roofs, minimum setbacks, conditional use permits, garbage inside the building, and specific lot coverage. A more positive attitude and faster review process is needed. Developers need an informal forum in which to suggest potential restaurant plans to the City Council. Community Development Director Hurlburt suggested that the Sketch Plan process could be used for this. Mr. Streeter said that process is too time consuming. Developers need an immediate indication of whether their plan will be considered as acceptable to the Council, if details can later be worked out. He said this indication from the Council would not be binding, but developers would have some idea whether the Council favors the project prior to significant amounts of money being spent to develop plans and make a formal application. Councilmember Bildsoe said that he does not believe an Applebees or similar restaurant is unique or appropriate for the site because the same restaurants are located within a few miles. He believes this is a great location for a unique restaurant, and the City needs more variety in dining. Mr. Streeter said that an Applebees type of restaurant is what residents want and will support. He noted that Applebees does only about 14 percent of its business in alcohol -- it relies heavily on its food operation, which is usually desired by a city. Mr. Lis showed a preliminary plan being proposed for City Center. It included three restaurants - coffee/bagels, deli/lunch, and family restaurant. One of the restaurants is proposed with outdoor dining, which is compatible with the desired people orientation of City Center. He said that local, unique -types of restaurants are not currently interested in locating here. Mr. Lis said that restaurant size and parking also need to be considered. A free-standing, fine dining restaurant needs to be able to accommodate large groups of people and more parking. He said that Carlson does not have sufficient physical space to accommodate that type of restaurant or the related parking. Mr. Mann said that he believes the types of restaurants described by Mr. Lis are appropriate for this location. He said that pedestrian friendly, casual, family restaurants City Center Subcommittee April 2, 1997 Page 3 are needed to complement the theater use. A variety of foods are desired at establishments that are not terribly expensive. Mr. Mann said that the owner of a free- standing fine dining restaurant must be well capitalized and significant parking is needed. Mr. Lis said that the popular trend is the Barbecue/Blues establishments, but these are also franchises. Mr. Streeter said that no one wants a restaurant coming to City Center and failing. Councilmember Bildsoe said he would be willing to consider incentives in order to get an up -scale or unique restaurant to locate in City Center. The City has a strong economy, and he believes that the Council is asking for creativity. Discussion of Types of Restaurants Desired in City Center Community Development Director Hurlburt suggested that the Subcommittee attempt to better define what is intended by an "up -scale" restaurant. Several examples were given. "Ivories" was one restaurant mentioned, and Mr. Streeter noted that Ivories was the third restaurant in that location. Mr. Lis concurred that restaurants have a high turn -over rate and stated that it is very likely that restaurants will change over time in City Center. Councilmember Bildsoe suggested that there may be an out-of-state restaurant interested in locating here. Mr. Streeter responded that it is difficult to get a single, unique restaurant to locate here from another state. They typically can't afford the organizational structure to come to Minnesota with only one restaurant. Sometimes they establish several, but with different names, such as Kincaid's. Manager Johnson asked the Subcommittee to consider whether an "up -scale" restaurant has to be expensive. Councilmember Bildsoe said he is looking for atmosphere and uniqueness. It would not necessarily have to be expensive. Mr. Mann said that unique restaurants are typically located in unique areas, such as in Minneapolis' Uptown or Warehouse District. The suburbs typically have more traditional restaurants. Mr. Lis said that some restaurants develop uniqueness over time. The theater, Life Time Fitness, and Ice Arena will be permanent uses in City Center. Other uses in City Center will change over time and this will develop the character of the area. Restaurants will also change over time in order to meet the market demands. Definition of Up -Scale Restaurant Councilmember Spigner said that the Council has not defined the term "up -scale". She believes that the term up -scale denotes "expensive", and she would prefer the use of terms like unique and personable. Councilmember Bildsoe suggested that the term "up -scale" not be used, and that the Council develop a list of terms to more accurately reflect their desire. Councilmembers indicated they would like to attract the following type of restaurant in City Center Subcommittee April 2, 1997 Page 4 -C __ ) e__1 City Center: creative, unique, not necessarily expensive, possibly include entertainment, personality and character. Regulatory Options Director Hurlburt said that regulatory options are not very effective in attracting a desired business. Manager Johnson added that an inherent problem with regulations is that they exclude, rather than include. In other words, the Council can eliminate restaurants that are not desired through regulations, but could not attract the desired restaurant. Incentive Options Director Hurlburt suggested several incentives that could be used to attract a particular restaurant: making the permitting process easier; waiving license, permit, or park dedication fees; supplying public improvements including the common storm water treatment pond. However, given the initial investment a business would have make, these items alone are unlikely to attract a restaurant. Mr. Streeter requested that the City consider constructing the common storm water treatment pond and then assessing the cost to owners, rather than requiring immediate fees, for the benefit all property owners. Mr. Streeter said that it would be most effective if the Subcommittee could sit as an advisory body to initially review restaurant proposals. The standard review process is over two months and that is too long. Mr. Streeter said he was informed by staff that the Council could not hear preliminary ideas for development proposals for City Center. Several members indicated that they were not opposed to hearing preliminary proposals for development in City Center. Councilmember Spigner noted that the responses from the Subcommittee would be prior to consideration by the Planning Commission and City Council. She has no problem providing feedback on a concept, as long as there is a clear understanding that the public process would occur and planning requirements would have to be met. This type of feedback was provided when the Subcommittee reviewed the concept for the Mann Theater proposal. Community Development Director Hurlburt said that proposals could be submitted to the Subcommittee for review and initial feedback, but the Subcommittee would need to be able to meet on short notice. Mayor Tierney said that the Subcommittee could meet to review a proposal following the required three-day meeting notice. Councilmember Spigner believed that initial review of proposals for City Center is part of the Subcommittee's function. If the Subcommittee reacts favorably to an idea, the applicant can be directed to the planning division in order to make a formal application. And, she noted that the Subcommittee meetings are open to the public. The Subcommittee indicated that they will meet to review and provide informal feedback on any proposal for the City Center area. Staff is to immediately send any preliminary proposals to the Subcommittee for consideration. The meeting was adjourned at 6:48 p.m. For Immediate Release For More Information April 3, 1997 Laurie Ahrens, 509-5080 City of Plymouth Seeks Applicants for Environmental Quality Committee The City of Plymouth is seeking an individual from Ward 1 (northwest Plymouth) to fill a vacancy on the Environmental Quality Committee for a term which will expire on Jan. 31, 1998. Applications will be accepted at the Plymouth City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Blvd., until 4:30 p.m. on Wed., April 30. Citizens interested in serving should call Senior Clerk Typist Kurt Hoffman at 509-5054 for an application. When calling for an application, please leave your name, mailing address and phone number. -30- PLYMOUTH A Beawifu(Place?o Live 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD - PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 - TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 -2a April 3, 1997 Ms. Kathy Leuckert Assistant City Manager, City of Plymouth Mr. Jeff Richards Chairman, Plymouth Human Rights Commission Dear Kathy and Jeff: As we have previously discussed, I will be moving from Plymouth sometime mid - Summer of this year. Because you recently opened applications up for new Human Rights Commission members, and there -were several interested parties, I would like to offer my resignation immediately so that you can fill my position while the interest remains high. Please let me know if this arrangement works. I would still welcome involvement until I move, and if you desire, I would continue to attend meetings. If you would like to send me agendas, I would also welcome those. It has been a privilege working with everyone on the Commission and all the City of Plymouth personnel. I will have fond memories of my involvement and appreciate all your encouragement. What goes around comes around...... Si Ho and Sigal V TO Norwood Lane North Plymouth, Minnesota 55442 fIlE1R01 16100 3 StarTribune online Metro . — 32? Published Tuesday.npril 1, 1997 Fast-growing suburbs look for alternatives to impact fees for revenue Mike Kaszuba / Star Tribune For 20 years, every new home in Eagan was assessed a one-time fee -- most recently $440 -- to help pay the cost of the new roads the city needed to accommodate its growth. Eagan had dubbed the charge a "road connection fee," and officials saw it as an early attempt in Minnesota to impose an impact fee on suburban growth. Impact fees -- which generally are aimed at having new development pay a special, upfront charge for the extra burden they place on a city's roads, sewers and water systems -- long have been used in such fast-growing areas as Florida and California. Now, with the Minnesota Supreme Court having ruled last month that Eagan's road connection fee is illegal, the future of impact fees in Minnesota as a way to pay for suburban growth is in doubt. Eagan's road connection fee and other limited attempts to impose impact fees primarily on suburban growth have been fought by developers and real estate agents who see such fees as added taxes that drive up the cost of a home in a state where taxes are already high. That argument, in light of the state's large revenue surplus, has garnered support. In 1996, the fee generated $435,000 for the city of Eagan, and the court's ruling requires the city to refund all money collected during the past six years -- an amount city officials estimate to be nearly $3 million. 'Extremely controversial' As Eagan rushes to the Legislature to try to get a law passed that would give it the impact -fee authority, the city can expect to face a not -so -friendly environment. "The fear that an impact fee would be a tax ... still is a fear," said Joel Jamnik, a League of Minnesota Cities lobbyist at the Legislature. Rep. Joe Opatz, DFL -St. Cloud, who has called for statewide planning to help control unrestrained growth on the fringes of the Twin Cities, said he recently dropped a proposal for impact fees after it became "extremely controversial." The current legislative receptiveness to impact fees, he said, really isn't good. Sen. Leonard Price, DFL -Woodbury, said his proposal three years ago for a school impact fee, allowing cities three years ago for a school impact fee, allowing cities and school districts to impose a fee on new homes to pay for the cost of buying land for new schools, also fell flat. Price said the measure was an attempt to address growth in suburbs such as Woodbury, where the city, county and school district could not keep pace with the demand for roads, sewers and schools. When he tried to resurrect the idea two years ago, he said, the proposal was defeated soundly in a House committee. "It was just overwhelmingly beaten up," Price said. "The developers came in and [blasted] it." The Metropolitan Council, in a February report titled "Paying for New Growth," said impact fees can be a useful tool because they "pay for new infrastructure by placing costs on the users -- developers. They are often seen as making development'pay its own way"' The drawback, the report concluded, is that impact fees are not a legal option for many local governments. Road impact fees are allowed in 13 states, ranging from New Hampshire to New Mexico, and school impact fees are permitted in seven states, including Arizona and West Virginia, the report stated. Questions of fairness Met Council officials said they have not determined whether they will lobby for impact -fee legislation in Minnesota. One major drawback, particularly with road connection fees, is that it's difficult to determine who benefits from a new road that serves a wide area, they said. "If you can make anything feel fair in this state, and explain it, you can make it salable," said Chuck Ballentine, a Met Council community development official. "We have a lot of interest [in it]." In Eagan's case, attorney Tony Gleekel said developers were frustrated that the city had steadily increased the road connection fee -- from $75 for a single-family home in 1978 to $440 this year. "One of the big reasons [for the lawsuit] is the amount got to be a lot higher," said Gleekel, who represented a group of home builders in the case before the state Supreme Court. The court's ruling, filed March 6, also in effect ended the practice of collecting road connection fees in three other growing suburbs, Apple Valley, Prior Lake and Savage. In Prior Lake, new single-family homes were paying a $400 "collector street charge." "Every city administers it a little differently," said Frank Star Tribune Online 10 Metro Boyles, Prior Lake's city manager. Boyles, who declined to comment on the court's ruling, said the city would abide by it. In its ruling, the court said that Eagan's road connection charge "cannot find validity under the city's power of taxation." In addition, the court said it was "significant" that the revenues collected from the fee "are not earmarked in any way to fund projects necessitated by new development, but instead fund all major street construction, as well as repairs of existing streets." For now, the ruling leaves fast-growing cities looking for alternatives. "You're trying to finance growth without placing a burden ... [on existing] residents," said Jim Willis, the city administrator in Inver Grove Heights. "It's tough to go back and ask those same taxpayers ... to finance the next development coming in." © Copyright 1997 Star Tribune. All rights reserved. - i,3 Im- Alls ®0W® NORTH HENNEPIN CONBdUMY COLLEGE 7411 Eighty -Fifth Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota 55445-2299 (612) 424-0702 TTY: (612) 424-0949 To: Community Friends of North Hennepin Community College From: NHCC Presidential Search Committee Date: April 1, 1997 I � 5 k. The North Hennepin Community College Presidential Search Committee would like to invite you to meet the three finalists for the position of President of North Hennepin Community College. The candidates will be visiting our campus on April 8-10, 1997. There will be two open meetings each day for faculty, staff, students, and community friends of North Hennepin to meet and visit with the candidates. The schedule is as follows: Tuesday, Aarii 8. 1997 Wednesday, April 9, 1997 Thursday, April 10, 1997 Dr. Steve Maradian Dr. Neil Raisman Dr. Clay Johnson Room ES -108 Norse Room, 2nd Floor, CC Room ES -108 11:00-12:00pm 11:00-12:00pm 11:00-12:00pm 2:00-3:00pm 2:00-3:00pm 2:00-3:00pm Attached is a copy of the news release with more information on each of the candidates. If you have any questions regarding this schedule, please call 424-0878. An Equal Opportunity Educator and Employer To racks tbit information in an alternative format, call 493-0555 (V) or 493-0558 (TTY). NORTH HENNEPIN COMVIUNHY COLLEGE 7411 Eighty -Fifth Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota 55445 (612) 424-0702 TTY: (612) 424-0949 NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release: For more information, contact: Tuesday, March 25, 1997 Conrad Burchill 507-372-3400 Three Finalists To Be Interviewed For North Hennepin Community College President Three finalists have been invited for campus visits and interviews for the presidency of North Hennepin Community College. The finalists will be interviewed during the week of April 7 - 11, according to Conrad Burchill, recently retired president of Worthington Community College. Burchill serves as chair of a search committee that includes students, faculty, staff and community representatives from North Hennepin Community College. The new president will succeed Interim President Yvette Jackson, who replaced Dr. Kay Sloan, who resigned as president of North Hennepin Community College in July of 1996. Finalists are: O. Clayton Johnson, Provost of the Taylor Campus, Wayne County Community College, Michigan, since early 1994. He is a graduate of Southern University and holds a Master's Degree from Rutgers University in College Administration and Adult Education. His Doctor's Degree in Social Foundation/History is also from Rutgers University. His previous positions include nine and one-half years as president of Quincy College, Massachusetts and a year as acting president of. Hudson County Community College, New Jersey. Steven Maradian, an Executive Director with the University of New Orleans College of Engineering since 1994. He is a graduate of Northeastern University, Massachusetts and also holds a M.Ed. in Counseling from Northeastern. In addition, he earned an M.B.A. from Wheeling Jesuit College, West Virginia. His Doctor's Degree in Community College Leadership and Future Studies is from the University of Massachusetts. His previous positions include four years as President, Lamar University at Orange, Texas and four years as president of Belmont Technical College, Ohio. Neal A. Raisman, President, Rockland Community College, New York, since 1993. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Boston and holds a Master's Degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. His Doctor's Degree in Neurolinguistics and Composition is also from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. His previous positions include two years as Associate Provost and Special Assistant to the President for University Planning at the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and Dean, Raymond Walters College of the University of Cincinnati. An Equal Opportunity Educator and Employer To ntenr this information in an alterwatr fomwt. call 493-0555 (V/77Y). PENNY STEELEP N PHONE 612-348.7887 �•• ` "•0° Fax 612.348-6701 COMMISSIONER �+ Z TDD 612-348.7708 W � A'N E S° } BOARD OF HENNEPIN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS April 1, 1997 The Honorable Joy Tierney Mayor City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mayor Tierney: A-2400 GovERNMENT CENTER MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA 55487-0240 I'm writing to invite you to be a guest at a Hennepin County Board of Commissioners Town Meeting. This year's Town Meetings will be held during National County Government Week, April 13-19. The meeting in our district will be Tuesday, April 15, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Independence Community Center,1920 County.Road 90, Maple Plain. Mayor Marvin Johnson will help facilitate the meeting. I encourage you to attend the Town Meeting. We will discuss property taxes, crime, changes in welfare, county programs and services and the county budget -- explaining where the money comes from, and where it goes. Your presence at the meeting will help us define issues related to our community. At the Town Meeting you will have the opportunity to share opinions and suggest ideas on how the county and community can work together toward solutions to the challenges that face Hennepin County. I hope you will be able to attend the Town Meeting in our district. If not, I encourage you to attend one of the other meetings being held at the following locations: WednesdaX,.April 16 from 7:15 to 8:45 a.m. The Marsh, 15000 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka This is a breakfast Town Meeting co-sponsored by the Minnetonka -Hopkins Rotary. Refreshments will* be served. Optional_breakfast is $8. PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER Thursday,, April 17 from 11.30 a m to 1.30 p.m. Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce Eden Prairie City Hall, 8080 Mitchell Road, Eden Prairie Hennepin County is co -sponsoring this luncheon meeting with the Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce. Optional meal is $15. To make lunch reservations, please call 944-2830 by April 15. Refreshments will be served. All county Town Meetings are open to the public. I look forward to meeting with you. For more information feel free to call Hennepin County Public Affairs at 348-7865, or my office at 348- 7887. S' ely, Penny Steele Hennepin County Commissioner, 7th District CHARTERED TO: FROM: DATE: RE: 470 Pillsbury Center 200 South Sixth Street Minneapolis MN 55402 (612) 337-9300 telephone (612) 337-9310 fax e-mail: atrys@kennedy-graven.com V MEMORANDUM 0 CHARLES L. LEFEVERE Attorney at Law Direct Dial (612) 337-9215 City Clerks of Cities of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission Charles LeFevere April 3, 1997 Proposed Amendment to Commission Bylaws Article V, Sections 1 and 2 of the bylaws of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission provide that the regular meeting of the Commission are to be held at the Minneapolis Golf Club on the third thursday of each month at 12:01 o'clock p.m. A copy of those sections of the bylaws is attached. The Commission has been requested to hold its meetings at a location which is more readily accessible to the general public. In response to that request, the Commission held its most recent meeting at the Golden Valley City Hall, and will hold its next regular meeting at the same location at 12 o'clock noon on Thursday, April 17, 1997. At that meeting, the Commission will consider the attached amendment to the Commission's bylaws. This amendment would allow the Commission to change the time and place of its regular meetings by resolution so that each change in time and location will not require a formal change to the bylaws. The resolution of the Commission establishing times and places for its regular meetings would be mailed to each city and kept on file in the records of the Commission to be maintained at Golden Valley City Hall. Under this amendment, any meeting held at a time or place other then that specified in the resolution would be treated as a special meeting, and notice of the meeting would be given to each city and to each commissioner and alternate commissioner, and would be posted in accordance with the requirements of the state open meeting law. CLL 120144 BE29 -1 City Clerks, Bassett Creek Cities April 3, 1997 Page 2 Notice of this proposed bylaw amendment is being provided to each city in accordance with the requirements of Article VIII, Section 1 of the bylaws of the Commission which provides that the bylaws may only be amended after seven days prior notice of the proposed amendment has been furnished to each city which is a member of the Commission. cc: Commissioners Alternate Commissioners Len Kremer Pat Schutrop CLL120144 BE295-1 Sec. 6. The Secretary shall attend all meetings of the Commission and shall act as Clerk at such meetings and shall record all votes and the minutes of all proceedings in a minute book kept for that purpose. He or she shall give notice of all meetings of the Commission and shall perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Commission. He or she may assign the aforestated duties to a Recording Secretary if authorized to do so by the Commission. Sec. 7. The Deputy Treasurer, if one be appointed, shall assist the Treasurer and shall perform his or her administrative duties during the absence or disability of the Treasurer, but the performance of such duties shall not make him or her a member. Sec. 8. The officers and employees of the Commission shall give bond as required by the Commission, and by the Agreement, with corporate sureties satisfactory to the Commission for the faithful performance of their duties and for restoration to the Commission, in case of death, resignation, retirement or removal from office, of all books, papers, vouchers, money and property of whatever kind coming into their possession or under their control, belonging to the Commission. The premium on any such bond shall be paid out of Commission funds. Sec. 9. Any person engaged to perform any service or hold any office .for the Commission, other than Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer, may be engaged on a full- time, part-time or consulting basis, as determined by the Commission. ARTICLE V MEETINGS Section 1. Regular meetings of the Commission shall be held at the Minneapolis Golf Club, 2001 Flag Avenue South, St. Louis Park, Minnesota. Sec. 2. Regular meetings shall be held monthly on the 3rd Thursday of.each month, commencing at 12:01 o'clock p.m. The regular February meeting each year shall be the annual meeting at which the new officers are selected and take office. 4 RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE BYLAWS OF THE BASSETT CREEK WATERSHED MANAGEMENT COMMISSION WHEREAS, the bylaws of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission specify at Article V, Sections 1 and 2, the time and place of regular meetings of the Commission; and WHEREAS, the board has determined that it may be necessary or expedient, in the public interest, to change the location of the regular meetings of the Commission from time to time without requiring an amendment of the bylaws of the Commission; and WHEREAS, the board deems it appropriate to make certain other amendments to the bylaws, all as hereinafter set forth, to assure compliance with the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minnesota Statutes, section 471.705; and WHEREAS, notice of such proposed bylaw amendment has been provided to each member of the Commission in accordance with Article VIII, Section 1 of the Bylaws. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission that Article V, Sections 1 and 2 of the bylaws of the Commission are amended to read as follows: Section 1. Regular meetings of the Commission shall be held at such locations and at such times as are specified from time to time by resolution of the Board. The Secretary shall cause copies of all such resolutions to be provided promptly to each of the Members and filed in the primary offices of the Commission at Golden Valley City Hall. In the event the Commission determines to hold a regular meeting at a location or time other than that specified in such resolution, such meeting shall be deemed a special meeting for purposes of giving notice; and notice of such meeting shall be given to all members in accordance with Article V, Subd. 7 of the Agreement, to all Commissioners and Alternate Commissioners in accordance with this Article, and to the public in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 471.705, as amended. CLL119255 BM95-1 1 Section 2. For purposes of posting notice of meetings as required by Minnesota Statutes, section 471.705, the community bulletin board at Golden Valley City Hall be deemed the principal bulletin board of the Commission. The regular February meeting each year shall be the annual meeting at which new officers are selected and take office. Adopted by the Board of Commissioners of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission this day of , 1997. Chairman FIN 01CRI 6 Secretary CLL119255 BA295-1 2 MEMO DATE: April 1, 1997 TO: STA Board of Directors STA Transit Authority Directors FROM: Marty Muenzmaier RE: Session Update Last Wednesday, March 26, was the first legislative deadline, which requires a bill to have passed all necessary policy committees in at least one house, unless it is a tax or appropriation bill. A number of bills of interest to the STA have been moving through the legislative process. This memo is to update you on their progress.. Abolition of the Met Council - House File 783/SF 1209 This legislation, authored by Representative Peg Larsen (R -Lakeland) and Senator Warren Limmer (R -Maple Grove), would have abolished the Met Council except as an advisory board for planning purposes. On March 18, House File 783 was approved by the House Local Government and Metropolitan Affairs Committee by an 11-10 vote. The vote was split down party lines, with Republicans and Representative Sharon Marko (D - Newport) voting in favor of the legislation. House File 783 was then referred to the Transportation Committee where, on March 24, it was discussed at length. An amendment was approved in this committee that would restore Met Council responsibility for transit. The bill was then laid over for interim study. Representative Sherry Broecker (R -Shoreview), a co-author of this legislation, informed me that she has received a commitment from House leadership to hold at least six hearings on this legislation during the interim. Senate File 1209 has not yet been heard in the Senate and it is likely that it will not be scheduled for any hearings during the remainder of the Session. M ESSERLI & KRAM ER P. A. 7 WILLIAM F. MESSERLI ATTORNEYS AT LAW ROSS E. KRAMER JOSEPH W. LAWYER TOM TOGAS LEAGUE OF MINNESOTA CITIES BUILDING R. TERRI MANDEL RONALD B. PETERSON GARY W. BECKER MARK S. LARSON SUITE 450 ANN M. SETNES R, JR. ROBERT G. RENNESCROA JOHN F. APITZ GEORGE R. SEROARLINDA 145 UNIVERSITY AVENUE WEST VINCENT G. ELLA SANDRA L. NEREN S. JENSEN CHRISTOPHER B. HUNT ST. PAUL MINNESOTA S5 1 03-2044 + LEANNE G. LITFIN JAMES C. WICKA DANIEL (612) 228-977 5 WILLIAM B. BUTLER JEFFREY M M. ELLILLI S J. GOLDBERG MgDHULIK JAIN JOSEPH B. NIERENBERG WILLIAM C. HICKS FACSIMILE (612) 228"9787 MARTIN A. MUENZMAIER WILLIAM M. HABICHT LYNN M. NICHOLS ALICIA R. DRAKE JOHN W. LANG - STEPHANI M. HINZE PAUL W. ANDERSON AUTHORIZED TO PRACTICE LAW IN MINNESOTA. WISCONSIN. ILLINOIS. IOWA. SOUTH DAKOTA. FLORIDA AND WASHINGTON. O.G. OF COUNSEL WRITERS DIRECT DIAL NUMBER DANIEL S. KLEINBERGER MEMO DATE: April 1, 1997 TO: STA Board of Directors STA Transit Authority Directors FROM: Marty Muenzmaier RE: Session Update Last Wednesday, March 26, was the first legislative deadline, which requires a bill to have passed all necessary policy committees in at least one house, unless it is a tax or appropriation bill. A number of bills of interest to the STA have been moving through the legislative process. This memo is to update you on their progress.. Abolition of the Met Council - House File 783/SF 1209 This legislation, authored by Representative Peg Larsen (R -Lakeland) and Senator Warren Limmer (R -Maple Grove), would have abolished the Met Council except as an advisory board for planning purposes. On March 18, House File 783 was approved by the House Local Government and Metropolitan Affairs Committee by an 11-10 vote. The vote was split down party lines, with Republicans and Representative Sharon Marko (D - Newport) voting in favor of the legislation. House File 783 was then referred to the Transportation Committee where, on March 24, it was discussed at length. An amendment was approved in this committee that would restore Met Council responsibility for transit. The bill was then laid over for interim study. Representative Sherry Broecker (R -Shoreview), a co-author of this legislation, informed me that she has received a commitment from House leadership to hold at least six hearings on this legislation during the interim. Senate File 1209 has not yet been heard in the Senate and it is likely that it will not be scheduled for any hearings during the remainder of the Session. L -3 �. Elected Met Council - House File 423/Senate File 175 This legislation, authored by Representative Myron Orfield (DFL -Minneapolis) and Senator Carol Flynn (DFL -Minneapolis), would require the Metropolitan Council to be elected rather than appointed. House File 423 was approved by the House Local Government and Metropolitan Affairs Committee on March 18 (the same night that the committee voted to abolish the Met Council). The vote on House File 423 was 12-7 to approve, with all DFLers and Representative Ron Kraus (R -Albert Lea) voting in favor of the bill. House File 423 was then referred to the Governmental Operations and Veterans Affairs Committee where it was approved by a voice vote on March 24. This legislation now awaits action on the House floor. The companion bill, Senate File 175, has not yet received a hearing in the Senate. Transportation Funding - House File 337/Senate File 520 This legislation, authored by Representative Sharon Marko (DFL -Newport) and Senator Steve Kelley (DFL -Hopkins), would have proposed a constitutional amendment to dedicate motor vehicle registration taxes and 20% of the sales tax on new and used motor vehicles to a newly created fund called the Minnesota Transportation Trust Fund. This fund would have been dedicated exclusively to transportation and transit purposes. House File 337 passed the House Transportation Budget Division on February 28. It was heard late in the evening in the full House Transportation Committee on Wednesday, March 26. At this hearing, Representative Marko made a motion to withdraw the bill from committee consideration, effectively killing its chances for the 1997 Session. The reason Representative Marko withdrew this legislation was that rural DFLers were in opposition and, therefore, it would not have been approved by the Transportation Committee. This legislation did not receive any hearings in the Senate. Metropolitan Council Bonding Legislation - House File 240/Senate File 562 This legislation contains the tax feathering language. The House version of this bill, House File 240, authored by Representative Alice Hausman (DFL -St. Paul), was heard on February 13 in the House Local Government and Metropolitan Affairs Committee. At that time, no action was taken and the bill was laid on the table for future consideration. Senate File 562, authored by Senator Janet Johnson (DFL -North Branch) was approved by the Senate Local Government Committee on February 26 and the Senate Transportation Committee on March 13. It currently awaits action in the Senate Tax Committee. Messerli & Kramer lobbyists have received verbal assurances from Met Council lobbyists and staff that the tax feathering language will be removed from both the House and Senate versions before this legislation reaches the floor of either body. RCR:jjp:875kLW5Is March 28, 1997 CITY OF PLYMOUTH+ Steve Fontaine 10835-46`h Place North Plymouth, MN 55442 SUBJECT: Guiding of North Portion of Dundee Nursery Site, Located in the Northwest Quadrant of Highway 55 and Dunkirk Lane (96188) Dear Mr. Fontaine: I am responding to your letter of March 24, 1997 that was addressed to Mayor Tierney. As you are aware, the subject item was tabled until the landowner and the developer could submit plans indicating a blended guiding of LA -2 and LA -3 for the site. The developer is working on a Site Plan application submission for 118 dwelling units on the site. To date, we have received portions of the application, however, the official status of the application is that it is incomplete. When the application is complete, another public hearing will be conducted. Notice of the hearing will be publicized in the Sun -Sailor newspaper and mailed to all landowners within 500 feet. In addition, a development sign will be placed on the site to notify those who pass by. Also, please note that the role of the Planning Commission is to conduct the public hearing and formulate a recommendation to.the City Council. The Planning Commission is an appointed body that serves in an advisory capacity at the pleasure of the City Council. The City Council is not obligated to follow the recommendations that are offered by the Planning Commission. The City Council may ultimately follow the LA -2 guiding recommendation of the Planning Commission, however, for the present time they have decided to table their action in order to allow the landowner and developer to present a blended guiding/site plan application for the property. Sincerely, Anne Hurlburt, AICP Community Development Director AH:sbd PLYMOUTH :1 Beau 4ulPlaceTo Live 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH. MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 March 24, 1997 Joy Tierney CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mayor Tierney: I am writing to you today as an angry and frustrated Plymouth resident stemming from the City Council meeting held March 5, 1997. At that meeting, the City Council was to vote on an amendment to reguide the property on the northwest corner of Highway 55 and Dunkirk from a combination of commercial / LA -1 to an LA -2 designation. After several months of public hearings, along with a recommendation from the Plymouth Planning Commission to reguide the parcel to LA -2, the amendment was tabled. I am concerned by the inability of the City Council to make decisions, but am even more alarmed that the City Council is not responding to the concerns of the residents who voted them into office. The Planning Commission went through a very exhaustive process and finally voted to reguide the parcel to LA -2, and the result is still the same... no decision to respond to the residents' and your very own Planning Commission's recommendation to reguide the parcel to LA -2. Why did the Planning Commission, along with all the residents, spend so much time to achieve nothing. It was a waste of everyone's time and energies. Several times in past Planning Commission meetings, and at the March 5 City Council meeting, it was evident that the decision was going to be made to reguide the parcel of land to LA -2. Then, the developer came forward, at the twelfth hour, with a new plan that appeared to be enough of a compromise to change enough minds to force the motion to be tabled. My impression is that the council members appear to be more concerned with the developer's needs than those of the residents or the recommendation of the Planning Committee. I don't feel it was pertinent to allow the developer to come forward with a new plan that is outside the scope of the amendment to be voted on that evening. The developer should have followed proper protocol and submitted his revised plans to the Planning Commission first. The proposal did not deserve consideration relative to the amendment before the council that night, but I'm afraid that he once again was single-handedly able to override the entire process. Once again, another round goes to the developer, and another black eye to the nearby residents. I understand that there will be new plans submitted by developer(s) in the future, but I feel it is a cop-out to delay voting on the reguiding amendment because of future proposals. By delaying approval to reguide the parcel of land to LA -2, a decision your Planning Commission recommended to the Council, you are instead setting a precedent to the developer that it is okay to proceed with an LA -3 proposal. Had the Council responded to the concerns of the residents, the amendment would have been passed that evening, regardless of future or pending proposals. I spoke at the last Planning Commission meeting about my concerns with an LA -3 density guiding. I don't even live in the area but am in the planning stages to build in the Holly Creek neighborhood. My concerns about allowing guiding to LA3 are as follows: 1. As was concluded by the Planning Commission, LA2 most adequately meets the Livable Communities Act. 2. Safety due to increased level of traffic resulting from a higher density LA3 development. 3. LA3 is not an appropriate transition or buffer for the surrounding LAI and LA2 developments. 4. Housing values will be negatively affected in the surrounding neighborhoods. With the limited number of upper bracket housing in Plymouth, it is important to provide appropriate buffers to protect the values of the homes. I urge you to take action and reguide the parcel of land in question from commercial / LAI to LA2, regardless of future proposals for the land. A vote of approval to reguide to LA2 addresses the concerns of the residents and sends a message to developers as to what type of guiding the City of Plymouth deems suitable. I welcome any comments you have on this matter. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at 551-7987(H) or 595-0025(W). Sincerely, Steve Fontaine cc: T. Bildsoe T. Wold S. Spigner G. Black J. Johnson C. Preus R. Knutsen Plymouth City Council 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Geoff Wagner 4840 Ranchview Ln N Plymouth, MN 55446 March 31,1997 - 419 Dear Council Members, My name is Geoff Wagner and I'm from scout troop 477. 1 go to Plymouth Creek Elementary and I am concerned about the rate of trees being cut down in Plymouth. We need to preserve the trees that we have. The trees are part of this community just like we are. We also need to stop the fast rate of building because that leads to cutting down more trees. I also think that we should have more money put into the park service to make Plymouth a nicer place to live. Sincere y, 4�/90V-�� rb Geoff Wagner r- r-.--� 4 vA 00 4 M �i 1 w -,O O N VA �O ON o\ O\ G\ ON ON G\ O� .--� N N N N N M M M M M M M M M M M 44 A O� o� ON ON O\ O, C7, o� oN O\ o" G\ Ino O M 00 .-, V� rO " " VA �6 N N N N N 1-4 —4 .-4 N N N N N M O M M M M M M M M M r- r-.--� 4 vA 00 4 M �i 1 w -,O O N VA �O ON o\ O\ G\ ON ON G\ O� .--� N N N N N M M M M M M M M M M M 44 0. 4 A O� o� ON ON O\ O, C7, O\ O\ O\ o" G\ Ino °' M 00 .-, V� O� " " VA �6 00 N -+ -q 1-4 —4 .-4 N N N N N M O �p� M M M M M M M M M M M M A 4 0. 4 A N O cq Ino °' M 00 o a w. o a 'LV o �p� M --� N N N N N N N 0 4j N loo N ON N O M �- M A W c cl rA 0 3 o0 a 00. 0 cn o o. Cl �i ami ate+ f, '� Cd 1-4 ..w .r 0 o '> a A o .� a r o> a A c� H N N 8 C7 ai v a" o o a. L) 4i H o� 1.4 > 0~ o aC7 0b Bona cc Vb �Hw 03 b N >,_b Cd u baai > > 0 H xx�a ¢A w ;av, A v�t7T-f I I --I I I 0. 4 a 'LV o �p� M --� N N N N N N N N N loo N ON N O M �- M 0. 4 HONORARY TRUSTEES STEWART UDALL Chair Former Secretary of Interior EDDIE ALBERT Entertainer WILLIAM H. BANZHAF Executive Vice President Society of American Foresters DOUGLAS BEREUTER U.S. Congressman DONALD BORUT Executive Director National League of Cities DICK CAVETT Entertainer J. THOMAS COCHRAN Executive Director U.S. Conference of Mayors DR. MICHAEL DOMBECK Chief USDA Forest Service J. JAMES EXON Former U.S. Senator LADY BIRD JOHNSON Stonewall, Texas J. MICHAEL McCLOSKEY Chairman Sierra Club MAXINE (MRS. FRANK) MORRISON Former Nebraska First Lady JAMES C. OLSON J. Sterling Morton Biographer ERNEST C. SHEA Executive Vice President Nati. Assn. of Conservation Districts R. E. "TED' TURNER Chairman Turner Broadcasting System LAURENCE D. WISEMAN President American Forest Foundation BOARD OF TRUSTEES HELEN BOOSALIS Chair TONY DORRELL lice Chair LETICIA ROCHE CANO PRESTON COLE MRS. LEE (CAROLYN) CRAYTON JR. DR. GARY HERGENRADER BILL KRUIDENIER JIM LEUSCHEN PETER MYERS DR. JAMES O'HANLON STAFF JOHN ROSENOW President SUSAN McINTOSH KRIZ Executive trice President i The National Arbor DavikRaidatio 211 N. 12th Street • Lincoln,50j •' - ,5 .arborda Marc ;'' 1997''°, 4yi i'L•fi Ll i'; The Honorable Joy Tierney t•., ,,,.,,, Mayor of the City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mayor Tierney: Congratulations to Plymouth on being named as a 1996 Tree City USA! As we celebrate the 125th anniversary of Arbor Day this year, it is especially appropriate to recognize the value of trees to our communities. Trees beautify and lend value to our homes, neighborhoods, parks and business areas. At the same time, those trees conserve energy, help clean the air, protect rivers and streams, and provide a home for wildlife. The Tree City USA award indicates that you take your municipal tree -care responsibilities seriously. An effective community forestry program is an ongoing process of growth and renewal --a program of planting and care that continues through the years. As a Tree City USA, you have a solid foundation for that process of improvement. Tree City USA is sponsored in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters. State foresters are responsible for the presentation of the Tree City USA flag and other materials. We will forward your awards to Jonathan E. Stiegler in your state forester's office. They will be coordinating the presentation with you. I hope you will make the presentation of the Tree City USA award a part of your Arbor Day celebration, and that your town will give special emphasis to Arbor Day during its 125th anniversary. Again, congratulations on receiving this national recognition for your tree -care program. Best regard John X,", President cc: Paul Buck �1NIVERo. _ 18721997 �ORDAY •—�- APR 04 '97 04:44PM LEAGUE OF MN CITIES P.1 LLMC 14IDA YFAX Vol. 2, No. 13 A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Crties April 4,1997 TIFro osals could eliminate Option A Tax reform meeting � p Metro and Range cities could be affected set for Saturday Three bills have been intro- duced this session that would eliminate Tax Increment Financing Option A. Option A currently allows development authorities to elect to have the fiscal disparities contribution for a district to be taken from outside the TIF district. The proposals would require the contribution to be taken from the captured value within all new TIF districts. This would reduce the amount of increment available. H.F. 1547 (Ozment, R - Rosemount and Rest, DFL -New Hope) includes this proposal as does H.F. 815/S.F. 842 (Rest and Price, DFL -Woodbury). The Rest/ Price proposal is examined in the March 3 issue of Cities Bulletin. Without Option -A, some projects would not be feasible because the captured increments could be substantially reduced. The impact could be most notice- able in redevelopment districts, renewal and renovation districts, pollution clean-up activities in soils condition districts and hazardous substance subdistricts, League policy calls for no further restrictive changes to TIF law, but given the support for these proposals that may be difficult. However. It maybe possible to narrow the scope of the proposals. Supporters of the elimination of Option A have indicated they may possibly agree to limit the scope of the provision to economic development districts only. Senate support for the elimina- tion of option A appears weaker than in the House, and the pro- posal may ultimately die in confer- ence committee. However, nothing is certain. The league would like to hear your reaction to the original pro- posal and the possible impacts of narrowing the scope. Please contact Andrea Atherton at (612) 281-1258. Committee will consider whether diGpatphers are e.%%ential employees On Monday afternoon, the House Labor Management Committee will consider whether public safety 911 dispatchers should be classified as essential employees. As essential employees, dispatchers would have arbitration rights as opposed to the right to strike. City officials wishing to testify or state their position on this issue should contact Committee Administrator Sue Maher at (612) 296-4180 before the committee meets. A bipartisan group of House and Senate members will meet tomorrow in Room 15 of the state capitol to discuss prop- erty tax reform. The group includes many of the legislators who have developed tax reform proposals, including the chairs of the House and Senate tax committees. The meeting will be facilitated by Dan Salamone, Executive Director of the Minnesota Taxpayers Association and will include a presentation by Gordon Folkman, researcher for the Minnesota Department of Revenue. Committees in both the House and Senate have held hearings on tax. reform, but the discussions have been very general in nature. The meeting tomorrow may mark the begin- ning of an earnest effort by legislators to reach a biparti- san, bicameral agreement on property tax reform. With only six weeks re- maining in the 1997 legislative session, the House and the Senate must begin the process of compiling their omnibus tax hill-, in the next two weeks. Whether any agreement will arise out of tomorrow's meet- ing remains to be seen. The differences in the major reform proposals introduced to date prove that reform is in the eye of the beholder. ..... ....---�..-.-r.-,.rwl Rilnlifinv ! rapt