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Home My WebLink AboutCouncil Information Memorandum 03-14-1997MARCH 14, 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. MARCH 18 7:30 A.M. TWINWEST — PLYMOUTH COFFEE BREAK Council Chambers Agenda is attached MARCH 19 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Council Chambers APRIL 2 5:30 P.M. COUNCIL PHOTOS Medicine Lake Room APRIL 2 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Council Chambers APRIL 9 7:00 P.M. BOARD OF REVIEW Council Chambers APRIL 16 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Council Chambers 2. SUBCOMMITTEE ON BOARD/COMMISSION INTERVIEWS, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 6:00 P.M., Medicine Lake Room. 3.. HRA, THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 7:00 P.M., Medicine Lake Room. (Note location change) At 6:00 P.M., the HRA will tour the Hammer Residence Tyler House, 2611 Black Oaks Lane. CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO MARCH 14, 1997 Page 2 4. PLANNING COMMISSION, TUESDAY, MARCH 2S, 7:00 P.M., Council Chambers. 5. SUBCOMMITTEE ON TRANSITIPACT, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 7:00 P.M., Hadley Lake Conference Room, Lower Level. 6. HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION, THURSDAY, APRIL 3, 7:30 P.M., Medicine Lake Room. 7. MEETING CALENDARS — March and April meeting calendars are attached. (M-7) 1. AGENDAS a. Wayzata -Plymouth Area Chemical Health Commission meeting, March 14, 7:00 A.M. (I -]a) 2. MINUTES a. Planning Commission Meeting of February 11, 1997. (I -2a) b. Planning Commission Meeting of February 25, 1997. (I -2b) c. I-494 Corridor Commission Meeting of February 12, 1997. (I -2c) d Wayzata -Plymouth Chemical Health Commission Meeting of February 14, 1997. (I -2d) e. Human Rights Commission Meeting of March 6, 1997. (I -2e) 3. NEWSARTICLES, RELEASES, PUBLICATIONS, ETC. a. March 10, 1997 Star Tribune editorial opinion addressing issues of welfare reform, and pointing to the importance of the Plymouth Job Fair. (I -3a) b. 1996-1997 Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council Plymouth Data Profile. (I -3b) c. March 14, 1997 Star Tribune news story about the Plymouth Job Fair. (I -3c) d. Notice of free bus rides on all regular MCTO bus routes from 6 p.m. until the end of regular service on Monday, March 17 (St. Patrick's Day). (I -3d) 11 CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO MARCH 14, 1997 Page 3 4. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS POLICY- CORRESPONDENCE a. Letter to Roger and Carol Handberg from Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt on the proposed development south of Sugar Hills Town Homes. The original Handberg letter is attached. (I -4a) b. Fax Letter to the Mayor, Council, and Planning Commission from Liz and Paul Schupanitz on the proposed Gramercy Park development. The letter has been forwarded to Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt for a response. (I -4b) c. Letter to the Mayor from Michael Smith commenting on the East Medicine Lake Regional Trail. The letter has been forwarded to Park Director Eric Blank for a response. (I -4c) A status report on the most recent correspondence is attached. 5. CORRESPONDENCE a. Letter to the Mayor from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency issuing the permit for construction and operation of a sanitary sewer extension system at Conor Meadows. (I - 5a) b. Letter to the Mayor from Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners acknowledging receipt of the City's $7,500 support for the CONECT program. (I -5b) c. Letters to residents using the Imperial Hills Play Area and the Circle Park Play Area from Parks Superintendent Mark Peterson giving notice of plans for renovation of the play areas during the 1997 season. (I -5c) 6. FRIDAY FAX, the League of Minnesota City's weekly update on legislative activity. (1-6) TwinWest "State of the City" Coffee Break March 18, 1997 7:30 a.m. Plymouth City Council Chambers 1. Welcome and Introductions 2. Facts about Plymouth 3. Developments in Plymouth City Center 4. Public Safety programs for business 5. New projects for 1997 6. Questions and Answers Mayor Joy Tierney Dwight Johnson, City Manager Anne Hurlburt, Community Development Director Craig Gerdes, Public Safety Director Dwight Johnson, City Manager 00 N a 03 "d 00 ~ N N b r,H Cd,1 �U jUI �,� o ;aU Sh •U, �gw MaOOC i_ to N CN b I Al I.pi 3 �t 23 -ar nm _Y ''i i�mU'S^'' M1.4 I € •� -SII 00 j t c Z. � til ,zx� E 90 EimI ;. z Z, a �'i'; Om._ fir,. r O rz 2 MU igy.j8Ui !^n.ODU !gOU C,3 .4 IO O am•o M � h I ^+ N M Cd w �j E LL i Ce) I c 10 A C13 'd 0 h (Vn T.Gn� CIS � i �rvar fns a_"n M O c� "d m C) api U U o'' o o i cV CN b UF, u E M N O M ti c �+ {y 2" a 0.2 'L23 E E a g. �, k_ �F LU Zuj .OF.. m �c mss. U�,g H y N� o" �� o aim$ U o v U I- c pq 3 � o U a 0 ce$ 8 V/ .� Zo M h�.�{i� Z d d mu 6 ZV O iCW(K+ U ^, op In N Ch 'r N N «3 F� zzg'iQ�' z zz�. 'd Z E,�� zo R: off,<�v. adv Z v LU a� c''�fl a� c' Oo a OO O UU'.igu: ODU 00 O en Ni NT.CNO r� V1 ' 10 A 14C WAYZATAtP010bttOiJa&&HEMICAL HEALTH COMMISSION 600 E TREEYZATA, NESOTA 55391 • 612/473-0234 N w Meeting Notice w Friday, March 14, 1997 ` S 7:00 A.M. Wayzata School Administration Bldg. Conference Room 210 County Road 101 North Plymouth, MN A. Introductions B. Review Agenda C. Review and Approve Minutes, Secretary's Report. D. Treasurer Report E. School Updates and Youth Leadership Strategies F. College Issues G. Public Safety Update H. District Chemical Health Position I. Long Range Planning J. Other Business K. Future Agenda Items L. ADJOURNMENT NEXT WPCHC MEETING April 11, 1997,7:00 a.m. PLEASE DON'T DO NOTHING f, -2a CITY OF PLYMOUTH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES FEBRUARY 11, 1997 MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Mike Stulberg, Commissioners Allen Ribbe (arrived at 7:09 p.m.), Roger Berkowitz, John Stoebner, Jeffrey Thompson, and Kim Koehnen (arrived at 9:26 P.M.) MEMBERS ABSENT: Commissioner Bob Stein STAFF PRESENT: Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt, Planning Supervisor Barb Senness, Planners Shawn Drill and Kendra Lindahl, City Engineer Dan Faulkner, and Clerical Supervisor Denise Hutt 1. CALL TO ORDER: 2. PUBLIC FORUM: 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Chairman Stulberg recommended that item 7A be heard after item 7B, seconded by Commissioner Berkowitz. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Commissioner Thompson requested that a change be made to Page 20, Paragraph 8, that "to the contrary" be changed to "of the hardship". MOTION by Commissioner Stoebner, seconded by Commissioner Berkowitz. Vote. 4 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. 5. CONSENT AGENDA: 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS: A. CITY OF PLYMOUTH (96181) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by the City of Plymouth to consider reclassification of the commercial site located at the southeast comer of Highway 55 and County Road 24, the "Seven Ponds Commercial Site" from "C" (Commercial) to Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #24 Z "CO" (Commercial Office) on the City's land use guide plan; and, a concurrent rezoning of the property to "O -R" (Office Residential). Planning Supervisor Senness gave an overview of the February 7, 1997 staff report. Commissioner Thompson asked if the first tier of pads is requided to commercial office could the developer put in a gas stations or convenience store on a conditional use basis. Planning Supervisor Senness replied affirmatively. Commissioner Thompson asked if the PUD zoning is maintained, but the first tier of pads is reguided to commercial office, would we have that same degree of flexibility. Planning Supervisor Senness replied affirmatively. Director Hurlburt stated that every use becomes a rezoning. Commissioner Thompson asked who would pay for the traffic signals. Planning Supervisor Senness replied that it hasn't been determined at this point, but it is possible that the landowner may have to pay some of those improvements. Commissioner Thompson asked if they have the authority to put those costs on the landowners. Director Hurlburt stated it would be better determined at the site planning stage. Commissioner Berkowitz asked where the 200 foot strip would be in the relationship to the size of the property. Planning Supervisor Senness pointed out the strip on the location map. Chairman Stulberg continued the public hearing. Chairman Stulberg introduced a letter dated February 11, 1997 from Brian D. McMorris of 3255 Garland Lane North. In his letter, Mr. McMorris stated that anyone who has visited the site and the neighborhood will instinctively know that the proposed use of the property is totally out of context with the surrounding neighborhood. The need for a project of this magnitude is questionable in the first place. He stated in his letter that no one from the neighborhood is questioning the commercial status of the property, only the scale of the commercial use. Mr. McMorris stated that not one of the property uses are designed to serve pedestrians and that the traffic study done for the project seriously underestimates the traffic impact on the primarily residential neighborhood. In his letter, he questioned staff's finding that Medina Road serves as an adequate transition area. He stated that the neighborhood has no egress except to Medina Road. Mr. McMorris requested that the property be requided to O -R. Chairman Stulberg introduced Mike Walters of 3285 Garland Lane. Mr. Walters stated his concerns for pedestrians. For the uses that are proposed for the site, it is not realistically geared toward pedestrians. The increased volume of traffic will discourage pedestrian traffic. Mr. Walters stated that no one in the neighborhood has asked for convenient commercial access via biking or walking. There is an abundance of similar commercial offerings within a two mile radius. Mr. Walters stated that what makes Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #25 him stay in Plymouth is the quality of life, but questions now whether that is being compromised. Mr. Walters requested that the site be changed to O -R. Mr. Walters said that there is no bike path along the northern end of Dunkirk, and if the development goes in, that path would need to be put in. He stated that there is no other access out of the residential area other than Medina Road. Chairman Stulberg introduced Ken Solom of 3295 Garland Lane. Mr. Solom stated he has lived in Plymouth for 22 years and built his current home five years ago. He stated that he talked with Hans Hagen Homes on several occasions and this proposal is very different that what they were told when they built their home. He stated that common sense would tell you that this is not a good working plan. He stated that the people that built their homes in Sugar Hills knew what was surrounding them at the time and they have more than one entrance and exit to their site. Mr. Solom stated that he is concerned about the traffic. Chairman Stulberg introduced Jerry Ruegemer of 3290 Garland Lane. Mr. Ruegemer presented a graphic depicting information given to him when he purchased his home. The development graphic given to them indicated a low density commercial project. He stated no stop lights were indicated on the plan. Mr. Ruegemer stated that the residents are asking to be involved in the planning process that would ultimately affect their neighborhood. Chairman Stulberg introduced Dan Robbins of 2585 Brockton Lane. Mr. Robbins stated that he owns land within the questioned site and does not want the property to be rezoned. Mr. Robbins stated that over a several year period, he looked for land that would fit his need for an automotive service. He stated that the automotive service business is only allowed in a commercial service guiding. The only question is when he could build. In 1982 he purchased the property. In 1989 the City proposed that the majority of his property be requided from commercial service to industrial even though the City knew their intention of use. He was told that an area east of County Road 24 is zoned commercial service and his use would be allowed. He stated that under the proposal, automotive repair is not allowed. He stated that 18 years is a long time to be told that he can't use his property for the use he intended all along. Mr. Robbins stated that this land is his retirement account. He stated that since 1992 he has paid over $162,000 in property taxes, and has given two acres to Hennepin County for County Road 24. He stated that the proposal to reguide is not right or ethical. Chairman Stulberg introduced Kim Reaume of 3305 Garland Lane. Mr. Reaume stated his preference to reguide to Commercial Office. He stated that the residents should not have to live with old mistakes. Chairman Stulberg introduced Jerry Petig of 3300 Garland Lane. Mr. Pietig stated that he purchased his lot based on the information that the commercial area would not be Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #26 1-1- Z C high density. He stated that of 16 homes on Holly Lane, three of those have lost money. He said that the Hans Hagen proposal would have a negative affect on their property values. Mr. Peitig stated that he is not in favor of a traffic signal at Garland Lane and Medina Road. He stated that the traffic study did not encompass the added number of cars that would be coming in and out of the site. He stated that common sense would dictate that Commercial Office would be the best use for the neighborhood. Chairman Stulberg introduced Bart Phillips of 3440 Holly Lane. Mr. Phillips stated that he lives across the street from the Moen-Leuer development and that they are still encountering problems with noise, lights, traffic and trash. He stated that the proposed reguiding would be a good working solution for everyone. Mr. Phillips stated his opposition to a traffic light on County Road 24 and Medina Road. He stated that what was told to them when they built their home and what is being proposed by Hans Hagen now are two totally different projects. Chairman Stulberg introduced Tom Krueger of 3310 Garland Lane. Mr. Krueger stated his support to reguide the property to Commercial Office. Mr. Krueger questioned the number one finding in the Summary of Findings on Page 7 of the report prepared by SRF Consulting Group. He asked what significantly less means. Mr. Krueger stated that on Table 1 - Trip Generation Estimates under Proposed Land Use, the total daily trips is 7,083 compared to 24,629 daily trips under the Current Land Use/Concept Plan which is a 350 percent difference. Mr. Krueger said to take the Concept Plan and add a 64,000 square foot grocery store was not taken into account when the study was prepared. With that, you would then have a change of 500 to 700 percent. Mr. Krueger stated that in looking at the Directional Trip Distribution map, 81 percent of the daily trip distribution will be required to use Garland Lane or Dunkirk Lane. He stated that 72 percent of the traffic which comes from Highway 55 will be expected to use Garland Lane as their primary entrance. Mr. Krueger stated that when you increase traffic 500 to 700 percent and concentrate 72 percent to Garland Lane with a left hand turn lane or a left hand turn, there will be incident after incident. That is the only place that the children have to wait for the school bus. Mr. Krueger stated that the last thing that he wants to see when he is trying to sleep is a traffic signal blinking at night and competing with the lights from any commercial use across the street. Mr. Krueger quoted the three requirements suggested from the traffic study if the property were reguided. He stated that none of these requirements would be needed if the property is reguided to office/residential. Mr. Krueger stated that the residents don't understand staff's interpretation of the independent traffic study quoting Page 8, Paragraph 3 and Page 9, Paragraph 6 of the staff report. Mr. Krueger stated that the traffic study did indicate that there would be a problem with cars trying to turn left off of Medina Road onto Garland Lane, backing up into the intersection of County Road 24. He stated that the residents do not want a traffic signal installed on Garland Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #27 Lane and Medina Road. Mr. Krueger stated that the traffic study did not identify measures to address site access under both a commercial and commercial office guiding as indicated on Page 10, Paragraph one of the staff report. It said that extending Medina Road through to Vicksburg Lane would alleviate the left turn problem. Mr. Krueger stated that he can't find anything in the traffic study that would support staff's comment on Page 11, Paragraph 9 pertaining to the level or type of truck traffic. Mr. Krueger stated that a partial reguiding of the property for the first 200 feet north of Medina does nothing to change the results of the traffic study or address the concerns of the residents. Chairman Stulberg introduced Hans Hagen of 2811 McKenzie Point Road. Mr. Hagen gave a brief history of the development. Mr. Hagen stated that he purchased the first parcel in 1987. An early traffic plan indicated that County Road 24 would connect with County Road 9 and even a traffic interchange was planned for the area. With that knowledge, they proceeded to buy property at that intersection. A sketch plan was brought into the City and he was told that the land parcel was too small for a Planned Unit Development. They were told that the sketch plan must conform with land use guide plan element and the thoroughfare guide plan element. The first issue they dealt with was the lack of size. They purchased an adjacent site which enabled them to apply for a Planned Unit Development, but they still didn't meet the transportation plan with the land needed for dedicating property for County Road 24. They then bought another two parcels of land, one from Mr. Robbins. The net result over a period of two years is that they were able to put together a 106 acre parcel known as Seven Ponds. Mr. Hagen stated they then submitted a plan which, met all the requirements. Mr. Hagen stated that if the City had to go and pull all of these pieces together to meet their comprehensive plan, it would have cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Mr. Hagen said that as a developer, they did everything that the City required. Mr. Hagen stated that with all due respect to the residents, they did everything that the City required. He apologized that the plan that went out to potential homeowners was just a preliminary plan, with their main objective being to let people know that there would be a commercial development. Mr. Hagen stated that he is concerned that the Commission sustain the current zoning. He stated that the City was right in their plan 30 years ago and is right today. He stated that it is only right and ethical that the City retain the current guiding and zoning. Chairman Stulberg introduced Linda Fisher of 1500 Norwest Financial Center. Ms. Fisher stated that she represents Hans Hagen. Ms. Fisher presented an outline to the Commissioners. Ms. Fisher stated that Mr. Hagen opposes reguiding of any portion of the Seven Ponds commercial site and any concurrent rezoning. Ms. Fisher stated that Mr. Hagen supports retaining the existing Planned Unit Development zoning. She outlined the key characteristics related to the proposed land use guide plan amendment. The site is 26.1 acres and is surrounded on three sides by major roadways classified by Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #28 function in the City's transportation plan as follows: Highway 55 - principal arterial, County Road 24 - minor arterial, and Medina Road - major collector. The Transportation Plan works hand in glove with the Land Use Guide Plan. Part of the process of transportation planning is to determine the function of each roadway in the system. One of the objectives is then to plan and design streets and highways to accommodate full development of the City in accordance with the adopted Land Use Guide Plan. Principal arterials, minor arterials and major collectors are designed to carry substantial amounts of traffic in accordance with the adopted Land Use Guide Plan. She stated that this means that the basic roadway system was built to accommodate commercial traffic from the Seven Ponds commercial site as well as other existing and projected traffic through the year 2020. Ms. Fisher stated that land to the west is guided, zoned and developed for industrial use; land to the south and southwest is guided, zoned and developed for residential use; and, land to the north and east of the site on the north side of Highway 55 is guided commercial office and is undeveloped. Ms. Fisher gave an overview of the history of the Seven Ponds Mixed Use Planned Unit Development Conditional Use Permit and Plat as stated previously by Mr. Hagen. She stated that the City Council on July 16, 1990, approved Hans Hagen Homes' Mixed Use Planned Unit Development Concept Plan, Preliminary Plan and Plat and Conditional Use Permit for 66 acres. In 1991 after a number of hearings, the City Council approved single family detached building lots, three service commercial lots and four industrial lots. The City Council also approved a Preliminary Plan/Plat/Conditional Use Permit for Seven Ponds 2nd Addition. Ms. Fisher read excerpts from the Planning Department staff report dated August 14, 1991. The City Council approved a Development Contract for Seven Ponds 2' Addition and set conditions to be met prior to filing of and related to the Final Plat. On December 30, 1996, Hans Hagen applied to the City for necessary approvals for an amended PUD to be known as Plymouth Station on the Seven Ponds commercial site. The reason was to add an adjacent piece of property not currently in the PUD. She stated that the site plan submitted is not before the Commission at this time and that she would not comment or address specific issues pertaining to the layout or density. Ms. Fisher stated that Minnesota law recognizes a constitutionally protected property interest in a conditional use permit. A property interest clearly runs with the affected land citing Northpointe Plaza v. City of Rochester. A conditional use permit remains in effect until its conditions are violated citing De eg v. City of Maplewood and State ex rel. Neighbors, etc. v. Dotty. A conditional use permit is in the nature of a contract between the city and a private party for the use of a piece of property citing State v. Larson Tr. And Storage, Inc. A City does not have the authority to enact or enforce an ordinance that terminates an existing conditional use permit regardless of whether the permit holder is continuing to comply with the permit's conditions citing Minnesota Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 , -? C Page #29 Attorney General's Opinion 59a-32, February 27, 1990. Ms. Fisher stated that this means that the City cannot unilaterally terminate the conditional use permit. Ms. Fisher cited several cases of Minnesota Law recognizing a presumption of correctness of the original zoning (land use guiding). The original zoning classification of property is presumed to be well planned, and it is expected to be somewhat permanent. To overcome the presumption an appellant must show either that there was some mistake in the original zoning or that the character of the neighborhood has changed to such an extent that no reasonable use can be made of the property in its current zoning classification. Ms. Fisher stated that the property owner has not sat on his property rights and has actively pursued vacation of old road alignments in support of the City Transportation Plan for over two years. Mr. Hagen has a pending application to amend the PUD in reliance on historic guiding. There is precedent for the city to exempt development for which complete applications have been submitted prior to ordinance enactment or sites that have undergone substantial improvements or alterations from subsequent changes to official controls. Mr. Fisher stated that all eleven findings in the February 7, 1997, staff report (Pages 13-14) support retention of the historic commercial land use guide plan designation on the entire property. Ms. Fisher stated that commercial land use on a per square foot basis will generate more traffic on a daily basis than office development. Good planning means you look at a number of criteria. Ms. Fisher indicated that any improvements needed to the site will be addressed during the site planning stage. Referring to the City's traffic study, the levels of service are comparable. The site is difficult to serve and there will be delays with any of the categories under consideration. The left turn issue is related to the location and characteristics of the site, not land use. She stated that the traffic study is comparing worst case to worst case. The trip generation including the grocery store is less than what is in this study. Ms. Fisher stated the reguiding to Commercial Office is not necessary to achieve a land use transition. The owner has already established a transition. Medina Road is an appropriate transition between single family neighborhoods and higher intensity uses. Berming and landscaping has already been installed by Hans Hagen Homes south of County Road 24. Ms. Fisher stated that Mr. Hagen submitted an amended PUD plan which locates less intense uses next to Medina Road and proposes additional buffering north and south of Medina Road. Ms. Fisher urged the Planning Commission to vote against the recommended motion in the staff report and retain the commercial guiding for the entire site. Ms. Fisher stated Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #30 ,�— that the concerns stated by the residents are challenges that can be met under the current guiding. Chairman Stulberg introduced Barb Capece of 3320 Garland Lane. Ms. Capece stated that the quality of life should be considered over what adequately fits. Ms. Capece stated that she could not tolerate a stop light near her front yard. She stated that an expected level of service need should not justify upheaval in the neighborhood. She is concerned with the devaluation of their homes. Chairman Stulberg introduced Scott Ford of 3270 Garland Lane. Mr. Ford urged the commission to change the guiding to office residential for the entire property. He stated that the residents concerns have not been addressed entirely such as the bus stop, traffic and noise. The waiting area at the bus stop cannot be enlarged. He stated that there is no guarantee that the snow on the sidewalk would be removed. People are not going to use the sidewalk with intense commercial use across the street. The crime issue was not addressed properly. He stated that if the guiding is changed to office residential, their concerns relating to crime would be greatly alleviated. He stated that the overall size and scope of the proposal by Mr. Hagen concerns them. He stated that the fear that comes from seven day a week, 24-hour a day businesses has never been addressed. He stated that the Commission vote is for kids or for cash. Chairman Stulberg introduced Kelly Slavik of 3325 Everest Court. Ms. Slavik presented an outline dated February 11, 1997 to the Commission. Ms. Slavik stated that they expanded the circulation area of their petition that will be presented to the City Council. Ms. Slavik stated that the residents do not concur with the staff's finding and recommendation. The residents want the entire parcel changed to Office Residential. Their petition illustrates that the neighborhood does not want fast-food restaurants, a grocery store, or an auto service use. She stated that all residents that are within walking or biking distance of the property want the property reguided to Commercial Office. She stated that residents feel that crime will increase as the property is currently guided. The traffic study does not address the issue of residents leaving and entering Everest Court which is right next to Garland Lane. The staff report does not adequately address the safety concerns relating to pedestrian traffic and children in the area. Fast-food restaurants become a hangout for kids after school and after sporting events, which the staff report does not address. Residents do not agree that both commercial and office residential would generate almost the same number of trips during the period when children would be waiting for buses. Ms. Slavik stated that truck traffic will travel through the neighborhood to gain access to the commercial property. The amount of truck traffic will be lessened if the property is zoned office/residential. She stated that Medina Road is the only access to the neighborhood that every resident of Garland Lane and Everest Court have. Contrary to the staff report, the residents feel that a traffic light at Garland Lane would Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #31 not be necessary if the property were zoned office/residential. If a traffic light were installed at Garland Lane, it would be extremely close to homes. The staff report never addresses the difficulty that residents will have when attempting to make a left turn from Everest Court, which is right next to Garland Lane, onto Medina Road. Ms. Slavik stated that the facts in the traffic report clearly state that by changing the property to office/residential, there will be over 14,000 cars less per day traveling the road, the majority attempting left hand turns. The traffic study states that if the property is changed to office residential, there will no longer be a need for a second west -bound left -turn lane on Highway 55 and County Road 24. The study also states that no other significant geometric or traffic control improvements would be required on County Road 24 or Medina Road. Ms. Slavik stated that the light levels are still problematic for neighboring residents. Many residents of the Plymouth Ponds area have called the city to register complaints regarding the lights shining on their property, which is an on-going problem. Ms. Slavik stated that office/residential zoning would generate a small demand for signs on the property, and are required to be smaller so that they are compatible with the surrounding neighborhood. Ms. Slavik stated that the residents are interested in how the odors from fast -foot restaurants, grocery store dumpsters and gas stations can be abated. It would be helpful if the city could tell the residents how the city can regulate odor. Ms. Slavik state that there is no solution proposed to combat the higher volume of trash and litter if the site is guided commercial as opposed to office/residential. Ms. Slavik stated that the staff report excludes the grocery store from their noise analysis, and that the reality is, the developer is proposing a very large grocery store on the site. The staff report does not adequately address the residents' concern regarding intercom systems on the proposed fast-food restaurants, gas stations and the auto service station. There are currently many problems with noise at the Plymouth Ponds site that have not been addressed adequately. Ms. Slavik stated that if the property were zoned office/residential, the berming required would not be as extensive as needed for commercial guiding. The staff report does not address the concerns relating to snow removal. Ms. Slavik stated the residents are asking for the property to be zoned office/residential so that the future potential uses are limited. She stated that many of the residents knew that the would be commercial property on the site; however, many residents were told that the area would contain single family homes. The residents want the entire property to be zoned office/residential. She stated that just making a small portion of Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #32 the land office residential does not met their needs and will inhibit the use and enjoyment of their properties. Changing the property to office/residential will still allow the developer to have an income generating commercial property site in the City of Plymouth. The residents feel that the office/residential zoning is more than a fair compromise. Chairman Stulberg introduced David Slavik of 3325 Everest Court. Mr. Slavik stated that he is in agreement that the property should be zoned office/residential, as it provides a better transition. Mr. Slavik thanked the staff and Commission for listening to the residents and their concerns. Chairman Stulberg closed the public hearing. Planning Supervisor Senness addressed the conflicts in the staff report and the traffic study that were mentioned. She said that the grocery store was not included in the traffic study, but the amount of the square footage that is in Mr. Hagen's site plan is less than what was used in the traffic study. The amount of traffic in the p.m. peak hour is somewhat less in Mr. Hagen's proposal than what was attached in the staff report. Director Hurlburt stated that one of the conflicts noted was the characterization of the a.m. peak at the bus stop. Planning Supervisor Senness stated that if you look at both the in and out movements, they are somewhat higher for the current plan, if you are comparing just the a.m. trips. Director Hurlburt stated that for the trips in -bound, they were about the same for the proposed commercial office guiding versus the current commercial guiding, but the trips out for the commercial guiding were higher, so that if you look at the total trips, there would be a difference. Commissioner Thompson stated that the traffic study indicates the a.m. peak hour trips in -bound are pretty much equal, but the peak trips out in the a.m. are almost double. Chairman Stulberg asked to see a Trail System Map specifically relating to Dunkirk Lane. City Engineer Faulkner stated that a trail on Dunkirk Lane is under contract to be built and completed early this summer. Chairman Stulberg commented that anyone in the City of Plymouth has a say in the process, and that you don't have to live within the noticed area. All public hearings are published in the official City newspaper and the meetings are televised. In reference to access to Medina Road from Everest Court if and when this continues to be commercial guiding, City Engineer Faulkner stated that there would be difficult access during the peak hours, as indicated in the traffic study. He stated that there wouldn't be any proposal for a traffic signal there, according to the traffic study. Director Hurlburt asked what the difference would be between the two guiding options. City Engineer replied that they didn't look at that specific intersection and indicate a Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #33 o level of service. That wasn't included in their table, as it wasn't an access point to the commercial site. Planning Supervisor asked if Garland Lane was signalized, would it provide some gap for cars exiting at Everest. City Engineer Faulkner replied that it would possibly provide some gaps. Pertaining to odor and noise, Planning Supervisor Senness stated that there are state standards for noise and levels for daytime and evenings. The City has been looking at the possibility of doing some additional regulations in the area of the noise. The enforcement is done by the state and the City has the nuisance ordinance as well. As far as odors, there are standards that are in the City Code. Planning Supervisor Senness stated that the guide plan identifies the characteristics of different kinds of streets using the amount of traffic it expects, and functions it serves. A residential street you would expect to have a driveway at every lot and not expect to move a lot of traffic and relatively slowly versus a major collector, which is expected to carry a higher volume of traffic. Chairman Stulberg asked how long Medina Road has been classified as a major collector. Director Hurlburt replied since the 1970s. Director Hurlburt commented that the City is actively working with the owner of the Plymouth Ponds industrial park to make sure that they do follow through with all the requirements and construction going on. The City does follow up on all nuisance complaints, and the residents are being kept informed. The City will take enforcement action when necessary. Commissioner Stoebner asked for clarification on the portion that staff is recommending for reguiding. Planning Supervisor Senness pointed out the portion on the site plan that was submitted by Mr. Hagen. Director Hurlburt stated 200 feet northward along Medina Road all the way to Dunkirk Lane. Commissioner Stoebner stated that the staff report alludes to the fact that if the guiding is sustained with the PUD designation, it gives the City more control of the specific site development. He asked how much control that would be. Planning Supervisor Senness explained that any changes of the PUD become a rezoning, and aspects of the development would come under the Commission's perusal, which would require a public hearing and a super majority vote of the City Council. Director Hurlburt stated that a PUD is a contractual agreement. Commissioner Stoebner asked if and when Mr. Hagen's plan is presented, what criteria would be used to evaluate that plan. Director Hurlburt replied that at this point it is zoned PUD and the uses that are allowed under the current zoning are the uses that Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #34 were established with the old PUD. What they are requesting is to amend that PUD and change the list of uses that are allowed. Commissioner Berkowitz asked what types of businesses are being proposed within the 200 foot buffer. Planning Supervisor Senness replied that an office/mortuary, day care and an auto service, of which two of those three uses would be conditional uses in the office/residential zoning. Commissioner Berkowitz asked what the two alternatives were that were looked at in the traffic study. Planning Supervisor Senness replied that in both the alternatives they looked at the office/mortuary and day care. In the commercial alternative, instead of the auto service at the corner, they looked at a gas/convenience. Those uses were common to both alternatives. What staff used for a commercial guiding was a total build out of the site. Mr. Hagen's proposal does have less square footage and traffic overall. Planning Supervisor Senness stated that two alternatives were done for reguiding the parcel for office commercial, one looked at primarily a multi -family housing option and the other an office option. Both options had convenience uses along Medina Road. Commissioner Ribbe asked if the Commission has the authority to make a recommendation to the Council on this item. Director Hurlburt stated that it will be discussed with the City Attorney, but at this point, the Commission can make its recommendation. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Ribbe to recommend approval of reguiding from Commercial to Commercial Office for property located northeast of the intersection of County Road 24 and Medina Road. Commissioner Thompson stated that we are only talking about guiding not zoning. He stated that normally we do not look at the equities of the situation, but it has been brought up by the developer, so we should take a look at it. The use that Mr. Robbins wants is available under either option. Planning Supervisor stated that the service use that Mr. Robbins wants would not be allowed either conditionally or otherwise under the commercial office alternative. Director Hurlburt stated that staff s recommendation does not include a rezoning of the property, but it could be done at this meeting. Commissioner Thompson stated that his biggest concern is the traffic issues. The most important issue as far as planning is the transition. The commercial office is the better use next to the surrounding properties. The reguiding does not create a financial burden to the land owner. Commissioner Ribbe stated that the Commission has to consider what exists now, not what was promised or what was done by the previous bodies. Commissioner Ribbe Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #35 concurred with Commissioner Thompson's remarks and the statements made by the residents. Commissioner Berkowitz stated that he supports the motion. The buffer would put the residents and developer in a no-win situation. The 200 foot transition in itself would not adequately serve the residents, as the same traffic will go through the area. Chairman Stulberg stated he does not support the motion. He stated that as much as we owe to the residents, we owe it to all property owners to leave the guiding alone. The City can still control what goes on the site through the PUD process. If we left it as commercial, it would still come back to the Commission with a different proposal. Commissioner Thompson stated with the reguding process, the Commission has more discretion. Roll Call Vote. 4 Ayes. MOTION carried on a 4-1 Vote. (Commissioner Koehnen abstained.) Director Hurlburt stated that the current zoning is inconsistent with the guiding that was just approved. She stated that the Commission can act on the rezoning, but it is not mandatory at this time. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Berkowitz recommending that no action be taken on the rezoning. Commissioner Berkowitz stated his reason is that they have not had a staff analysis done yet. Director Hurlburt stated that there is more than one zoning that is compatible with the commercial office guiding. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. Chairman Stulberg called a recess at 10:00 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 10:10 p.m. B. H.I. ENTERPRISES, INC. (96189) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by H.I. Enterprises, Inc. for a Site Plan, Conditional Use Permits, and Variance for a Gas/Convenience Store for property located at the southwest corner of Cheshire Lane and Carlson Parkway. Planner Drill gave an overview of the February 6, 1997, staff report. Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #36 T-26 Acting Chairman Ribbe introduced Bev Kottas of 2995 Harbor Lane, the petitioner. Ms. Kottas stated that they developed and own the Holiday store at Harbor Lane and Fernbrook Lane. They have tried to continuously meet the needs of the residents. The idea of fast-food within the convenience store is not new, it is just labeling what they have always done. Ms. Kottas stated that she concurs with the staff report. Acting Chairman Ribbe 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 Site Plan, Conditional Use Permit and Variance for H.I. Enterprises, Inc. for property located at the southwest corner of Cheshire Lane and Carlson Parkway. Roll Call Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. (Chairman Stulberg abstained.) C. CHRIST MEMORIAL LUTHERAN CHURCH (97001) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by Christ Memorial Lutheran Church for a Conditional Use Permit renewal for the temporary daycare structure for property located at 13501 Sunset Trail. Planner Lindahl gave an overview of the February 5, 1997 staff report. Chairman Stulberg introduced Fred Lee of 1105 Vagabond Lane, the petitioner. Mr. Lee 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 Ribbe, seconded by Commissioner Berkowitz recommending approval of a Conditional Use Permit renewal for a temporary daycare center at Christ Memorial Lutheran Church for property located at 13501 Sunset Trail. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. 7. OLD BUSINESS B. CITY OF PLYMOUTH (96188) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by the City of Plymouth to consider a Land Use Guide Plan Amendment to reguide the property located in the northwest quadrant Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #37 of Highway 55 and Dunkirk Lane from C (Commercial) and LA -1 (Living Area 1) to LA -2 (Living Area 2). Planner Drill gave an overview of the February 6, 1997 staff report. Commissioner Thompson asked if single family homes were built under LA -2 if it would meet or exceed the Livable Communities Act. Planner Drill replied affirmatively. The single family goal is two units per acre, multi -family is 10 units per acre. Commissioner Thompson stated that LA -2 guiding would allow three to six units. Commissioner Berkowitz asked if Commissioner Ribbe could make the motion to reconsider LA -2 guiding (Option A) since he was not in attendance at the last meeting. Planner Drill stated it would have to be someone that voted nay. MOTION by Chairman Stulberg, seconded by Commissioner Thompson to reconsider the reguiding of the site to LA -2. Chairman Stulberg stated his reason for the motion is so that all options can be put on the table. Commissioner Thompson stated that the integrity of the process demands it. Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. MOTION by Chairman Stulberg, seconded by Commissioner Stoebner to reopen the public hearing. Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. Chairman Stulberg commented on a letter received and responded to by Director Hurlburt, stating that the Planning Commissioner was the petitioner and initiated the reguiding request. Chairman Stulberg stated that as the chairman, he believes that all the input should be considered. Chairman Stulberg stated, as noted in the minutes, he would not support the previous motion for approval of reguiding, as he wanted to see more information that was brought forward in order to make a more informed decision. Chairman Stulberg stated that the Commission voted unanimously to collect more information. Chairman Stulberg introduced John Bergh of 7300 Hemlock Lane. Mr. Bergh stated that he represents Craig Scherber and wanted to express his concern regarding LA -2 or LA -3. Mr. Scherber was concerned with the potential impact of the LA -2 or LA -3 guiding would have on the property that he is developing as LA -1. Mr. Bergh stated that Mr. Scherber's preference is Option A for the site. Chairman Stulberg introduced John Byers of 3895 Comstock Lane North. Mr. Byers stated his concern about receiving information on the property. He stated that he did not receive a letter about this meeting. He stated that what is being considered as options is not what was sent to them in previous notices. He suggested that the item Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #38 not be discussed since notices were not sent. Mr. Berg stated that the original proposal for LA -3 was for 159 units, and the proposal now for Option 3 is for 149 units, which is approximately one building. His concern is the density and does not believe the issue has been addressed. Chairman Stulberg introduced Alan Napier of 16520 39d' Avenue North. Mr. Napier commented that pictures he took were examples of the densities that are being discussed. He stated that the proposed structures are eight unit dwellings, and his pictures depict what it would look like with an eight unit dwelling next to an LA -1 guided property. Mr. Napier stated that he talked with other developers in the area regarding the property. He commented that the property if guided LA -2 would sell for about $70,000 per acre, which means Mr. Theis would suffer to gain about 1.4 million dollars. Mr. Napier stated that the residents are the potential losers because of inappropriately guided land next to their homes and the affect of their property values. Mr. Napier stated that based on the 150-160 units at $100,000, the sales would be 16 million and Town and Country would walk away with a ten percent profit of 1.6 million dollars. Mr. Napier stated that Option C is not a new option but is just a repackaging of a previous effort by the developer. Mr. Napier wanted to know why the developer is switching from wanting a parcel based guiding and now proposing a split guiding. Mr. Napier stated that the residents should not have to pump the city for information regarding the site, as the residents should have input as to decisions regarding the property. Chairman Stulberg introduced Steve Fontaine of 10835 46' Place North. Mr. Fontaine stated that he is looking to move to Holly Creek and is the final stages of that process. He appealed to the Planning Commission to approve the LA -2 guiding for the site. He commented that an LA -3 guiding can negatively affect property values. He stated that LA -2 guiding is a smoother transition for surrounding properties. He cited the development between Heritage Ridge and Cottonwood Plaza as a good transition. Mr. Fontaine stated that there is a shortage of homes available in the upper bracket sales price. Mr. Fontaine stated that he is not opposed to affordable housing, but the site in question is not appropriate. He stated that he is seriously considering putting their building plans on hold pending the outcome of the guiding decision. Chairman Stulberg introduced Mike Gair of 15050 23rd Avenue North. Mr. Gair stated that he represents Town and County Homes and Jerry Theis. He stated that Mr. Theis sent a letter indicating his support for the blended land use proposal. Mr. Gair presented an aerial photo of the site and surrounding properties. Mr. Gair stated that he visited the Dundee Nursery site and the Tri-State Drilling site to get a better idea of their uses. He stated that there are currently 14 rigs on the Tri-State Drilling site and at some point their uses may change, but right now it is a reality. He stated that buffering was required for Holly Creek in consideration of the proposed commercial Dundee property. He stated that the City's Comprehensive Plan indicates that Dunkirk Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #39 Lane is an appropriate transition for lesser intense uses. Dunkirk is a transition from the Westbranch homes. Mr. Gair stated that it is apparent that a blended guiding would be the best solution to provide sufficient buffering and transition to the surrounding properties. Mr. Gair stated that the southwest corner of the site should be LA -3, as it is a rational approach since it is in close proximity to the Dundee Nursery site and Tri-State Drilling. Mr. Gair presented illustration maps of the blended guiding and how it would fit into the area and affect the surrounding properties. Mr. Gair stated that the blended use would mean less homes for the property. He stated that Town and Country could make the proposal work with 120 higher priced units that have two stall garages under the blended guiding. Chairman Stulberg introduced Jim Blake of 3885 Comstock Lane North. Mr. Blake stated that a request for LA -3 is not appropriate for the site due to increased traffic and noise and a negative affect on property values. Mr. Blake supports an LA -2 guiding as did city staff in a previous staff report. Mr. Blake stated that Town and Country can make their project work with an LA -2 guiding. Chairman Stulberg introduced a letter dated February 5, 1997, from Stephanie Brandmeyer of 3930 Black Oaks Lane requesting that the public hearing be reopened. In her letter, Ms. Brandmeyer stated that a combination zoning does not solve the neighbor's concern about increased traffic and inadequate transition. Chairman Stulberg introduced a letter dated February 11, 1997, from Todd Sitkowski of 3955 Black Oaks Lane in support of LA -2 guiding for the property. Chairman Stulberg introduced a letter dated February 11, 1997, from Randy Ridings of 16500 39' Avenue North supporting the LA -2 guiding. Chairman Stulberg introduced Jerry Massmann of 4085 Everest Lane. Mr. Massmann stated that he supports the LA -2 guiding for the property. Mr. Napier stated that Dunkirk Lane is three lanes wide (two lanes wide and a shoulder), and is not a realistic transition between properties. Mr. Napier stated that Town and Country Homes has stated that their project is viable down to 120 units. Mr. Napier stated that with 20 acres and 120 units, it is LA -2. He proposed that the developer has nothing to fear with an LA -2 guiding. Chairman Stulberg closed the public hearing. Director Hurlburt stated that the city mails a notice when new applications are received and are scheduled for a public hearing before the Planning Commission. She explained that two notices were mailed, one for the LA -3 guiding submitted by Town and County, and one for LA -2 guiding that was initiated by the Planning Commission. It Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #40 is not a requirement to mail additional notices when items get continued. The letter that Mr. Beyers referred to is pertaining to a new application. The commission has held hearings on LA -2 and LA -3 guiding, and is allowed to make a decision on a combination of the two without holding another public hearing. Director Hurlburt stated that staff reports are available to everyone at the same time at City Hall. Director Hurlburt stated the LA -3 application would allow a maximum of 200 over units. Regardless of the application, staff has to think about the maximum allowed, as a developer could change. The difference between LA -2 and LA -3 is much greater, based strictly on guiding. Chairman Stulberg stated that the reference Planner Drill made to Mr. Napier's pictures in his staff report were based on the comments at the previous meeting pertaining to zoning. Chairman Stulberg stated that Mr. Napier referred to the pictures correctly at this meeting pertaining to guiding. Chairman Stulberg stated that Mr. Theis probably had some basis for his comments pertaining to his financial status with respect to the property. In response to Mr. Fontaine's comments, Chairman Stulberg stated that any value of home could be placed in any of the various guiding designations. Chairman Stulberg noted that staff has said LA -2, LA -3 or a combination could be appropriate guiding. Commissioner Koehnen asked for comments/explanation pertaining to different types of housing. Director Hurlburt stated that LA -1 is not a type of housing. There is quite a variety of price, size and type of housing in an LA -1 area. Some of the most affordable single family homes and some of the most expensive homes are in LA -1. Densities can be higher and attached homes are higher density and are sometimes able to be made more affordable. The higher densities make more affordable housing and make attached housing possible. Commissioner Thompson asked if the off -set boundary of Option 3 concerns staff. Director Hurlburt replied affirmatively and the dimensions would have to be better defined. She added that staff prefers that guidings be parcel based, but a split guiding can be handled. MOTION by Commissioner Ribbe, seconded by Commissioner Berkowitz recommending approval of a Land Use Guide Plan Amendment for property located in the northwest quadrant of Highway 55 and Dunkirk Lane to LA -2 (Option A). Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #41 Commissioner Thompson stated that he is concerned with a split guiding and tends to think LA -2 is the best alternative. If a site plan had been submitted with a 120 houses, it would have been easier to decide. Commissioner Ribbe stated to keep in mind that the heavy equipment at Tri-State drilling is not operative on the site, as it is moved out during their normal operational months. It is basically an office and minor repair site. Chairman Stulberg noted that there is some equipment on site that has not moved for many years. Commissioner Berkowitz stated that the site is readily visible and should not be a surprise for anyone contemplating purchasing a home near the site. Commissioner Berkowitz stated that with Option C access would have to go through the LA -2 and perhaps the LA -1 guided area through Holly Creek and would not be a palatable situation if it were to progress to that point. Commissioner Thompson stated that he is not as concerned with the LA - 2 guided property to the east side as much as the LA -1 guiding property to the north and the Livable Communities Act. He stated he is inclined to move to table the item and the next item to allow a site plan to be submitted. Chairman Stulberg suggested that if that is done, we deal with one item at a time, as there is a time limit on each application. Commissioner Koehnen asked if Option C meets the Livable Communities Act. Commissioner Thompson replied negatively. Commissioner Koehnen stated that Option C seems like a compromise but is not convinced that it is the best solution. Chairman Stulberg stated he would like to see the property stay the way it is until someone comes forth with a proposal that means something. He would side with Commissioner Thompson to table the item. He stated that the Commission should deal with it as it comes forward. Commissioner Thompson stated he finds that leaving the property as -is the least palatable, as he does not want to see a proposal for commercial and a lot of time and effort has been put into it so far. He stated that he is leaning toward Option A and if Town and County comes up with a plan asking for a guide plan amendment and site plan, the guiding can be changed. Chairman Stulberg noted that the property is commercial now. Commissioner Thompson stated that is why the Commission should act on it now. Commissioner Berkowitz concurred stating that the residents have been put through enough already. He stated he would like to see closure on this. Commissioner Stoebner concurred with Chairman Stulberg stating that until we see a plan in front of the Commission there is no need to reguide the property at this time. Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #42 Commissioner Thompson stated that it is zoned commercial and we could see warehouses tomorrow and that it should be acted on now. Commissioner Koehnen stated that reguiding the property to LA -2 would not impede other possibilities. Roll Call Vote. 4 Ayes. MOTION carried on a 4-2 vote. (Commissioner Stoebner and Chairman Stulberg voted nay.) A. TOWN AND COUNTY HOMES, INC. (96161) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by Town and County Homes, Inc. for a Land Use Guide Plan Amendment from C (Commercial) and LA -1 (Living Area 1) to LA -3 (Living Area 3) and Sketch Plan for a 159 -unit townhome community located in the northwest quadrant of Highway 55 and Dunkirk Lane. Planner Dill stated that in light of the previous action recommending reguiding of the site to LA -2, it would be appropriate for the Commission to recommend denial Town and Country's request. Chairman Stulberg introduced Mike Gair, representing the petitioner. Mr. Gair stated that the applicant wishes to withdraw their application. Chairman Stulberg introduced John Bergh of Loucks and Associates. Mr. Bergh declined to comment. Director Hurlburt stated that since the application was withdrawn, the Commission does not need to take any action. 8. NEW BUSINESS A. APPOINTMENT OF LIAISON TO THE PARK AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION. It was decided that Commissioner Ribbe would take the first three months, and Chairman Stulberg the next three months. Staff is to bring the item back to the Commission at a later date for future appointments. Director Hurlburt noted that the Work Plan will come before the Commission at the next meeting. Chairman Stulberg commended the Commission for their actions on a tough meeting. Planning Commission Minutes February 11, 1997 Page #43 MOTION by Commissioner Ribbe, seconded by Commissioner Berkowitz. The meeting was adjourned at 11:50 p.m. Z- Z CITY OF PLYMOUTH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES FEBRUARY 25, 1997 MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Mike Stulberg, Commissioners Allen Ribbe (arrived at 7:05 p.m.), Roger Berkowitz, John Stoebner, Jeffrey Thompson, Kim Koehnen, and Bob Stein MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt, Planning Supervisor Barb Senness, John Rask, and Clerical Supervisor Denise Hutt 1. CALL TO ORDER: 2. PUBLIC FORUM: 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: 5. CONSENT AGENDA: 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS: A. AMERICAN PORTABLE TELECOM (97002) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by American Portable Telecom for a Conditional Use Permit and Planned Unit Development Amendment to construct a Personal Communication Services wireless telephone antenna cell site at the West Health Business Campus located at 2855 Campus Drive. Planner Rask gave an overview of the February 19, 1997 staff report. Planner Rask stated that there will be no rooftop equipment, as the applicant was able to relocate the equipment inside the West Health building. Chairman Stulberg introduced Michelle Johnson, representing the petitioner. Ms. Johnson stated that they were able to work out a deal with West Health to locate the equipment in the building, so there was no need to place it on the rooftop. She stated that concurred with the staff report. Planning Commission Minutes February 25, 1997 Page #45 Chairman Stulberg asked if the antennas could be shared. Ms. Johnson replied that Airtouch will not allow sharing. Chairman Stulberg opened and closed public hearing as there was no one present to speak on the issue. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Stoebner to recommend approval of a Conditional Use Permit and Planned Unit Development Amendment to allow installation of PCS antennas and related equipment for Wireless Communication Services at West Health located at 2855 Campus Drive. Chairman Stulberg asked if Condition #4 should be deleted since the applicant will not be placing equipment on the roof. Planning Supervisor Senness replied that the condition should be left in so in case something changes, the applicant would not have to come back to the City for approval. Roll Call Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. 8. NEW BUSINESS A. 1996 ANNUAL REPORT Director Hurlburt stated that this is the first year an annual report has been done, but believes it is important to document the accomplishments of the Commission and staff in some form. She stated that an annual report also provides a historic reference to track planning and development activity, and helps staff understand the trends that affect their work. Commissioner Ribbe asked if the report is available to the public, as it would be worthwhile for students to look at to help understand what is taking place in the City. Director Hurlburt replied that if anyone would want a copy they can contact the Community Development Department. MOTION by Chairman Stulberg, seconded by Commissioner Ribbe to adopt the 1996 Planning Commission Annual Report. Vote. 7 ayes. MOTION carried on a unanimous vote. Commissioner Koehnen complimented the Commissioners on the work that was accomplished. Commissioner Ribbe complimented staff on the report and their hard work throughout the year. Planning Commission Minutes February 25, 1997 L Page #46 1997 PLANNING COMMISSION ANNUAL WORK PLAN Director Hurlburt gave an overview of the February 20, 1997 staff report. She said that now that the zoning ordinance is done, they will move into updating the comprehensive plan. The Commission will be looking at some changes in the zoning ordinance, mainly housekeeping issues and also the sign ordinance and subdivision regulations. Director Hurlburt stated that there will be public hearings held on the Water Supply Plan and the Water Quality Plan. She added that the schedule can change, depending upon the workload and the direction from the City Council. Planning Supervisor Senness pointed out the overview and background information on Wireless Telecommunication Towers and Related Facilities that was prepared by Planner Rask. Director Hurlburt informed the Commission that the City has received a new application from Town and County Homes for a land use guide plan amendment and sketch plan, which will mean another public hearing. She stated that there is not a limit on how often you can apply for a land use guide plan amendment. Commissioner Stein asked if the application includes a site plan. Director Hurlburt replied negatively. Commissioner Ribbe stated that he will not be at the March 1l' meeting. Commissioners Stein and Berkowitz were unsure at this time if they would be at the March 11`' meeting. MOTION by Commissioner Koehnen, seconded by Commissioner Stein to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 7:21 p.m. I-494 Corridor Commission/JPO Meeting Minutes of Wednesday, February 12,1997 (Unapproved) I. Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 8:45am by Chair Ross Thorfinnson. Introductions were made around the table for the benefit of Jim Hovland, new Edina City Council representative to the Commission, Those in attendance were: Ross Thorfinnson, Eden Prairie City Council Joy Tierney, Mayor of Plymouth Joyce Henry, Bloomington City Council Jim Hovland, Edina City Council Russ Susag, Richfield City Council Larry Lee, City of Bloomington Dave Lindahl, City of Eden Prairie Craig Larsen, City of Edina Jon Elam, City of Maple Grove Mike Opatz, City of Maple Grove Curt Gutoske, City of Minnetonka Barb Senness, City of Plymouth John Melin, City of Richfield Clarence Shallbeter, Metropolitan Council Gina Baas, LJR, Inc. Lisa Raduenz, LJR, Inc. II. Review of Minutes. Minutes from the Tuesday, January 14,1997, meeting were brought up for Commission approval. Dave Lindahl moved to approve the minutes and Mike Opatz seconded. Motion carried. III. Recap of January 29th Breakfast Meeting with Mayors and City Managers. Lisa Raduenz opened the discussion by stating that she felt there was strong participation by the mayors and the city managers. Barb Senness added that everyone appeared manager was pleased by the discussion. Jon Eld that their mayorgaged thou�bthe and deting was city terrific. Russ Susag also indicated that Richfield's mayor was pleased with the participation of the other communities. Craig Larsen observed that the mention of the lobbying effort was met with support. Thorfinnson added that their city manager, Carl Jullie was supportive as well. Dave Lindahl observed that it is an issue that is difficult to disagree with. The consensus was that the support generated at this meeting will be helpful in the individual presentations to each of the City Councils. IV. Minnesota Transportation Alliance Washington, DC Fly -in. Raduenz outlined the parameters of the MTA Fly -in which gives transportation stakeholders a chance to go to DC as a group and meet with the Congressmen and Senators from Minnesota. It is a good opportunity to focus their attention in on transportation issues. It was proposed that the Corridor Commission send 1-2 representatives on this trip. In order to meet an early registration deadline of February 3, the names of Ross Thorfinnson and Jon Elam were submitted as attendees on the DC trip. After additional discussion, Joy Tierney moved that the Corridor Commission pay for Thorfinnson and Elam to attend the Fly -in. Senness seconded and the motion carried. Elam suggested that it might be helpful to meet with Ramstad this spring in Minnesota. He also informed the group that Representative Bud Schuster, Chairman ofthe House Transportation Committee has developed a set of guidelines for demonstration projects that could be included in the reauthorization of the ISTEA legislation. He indicated that at some point the group needs to zero in on specific projects to promote and that the group should consider submitting a proposal for a demonstration project. Perhaps Ron Rauchle at Mn/DOT could help sort this out or maybe Chuck Siggerud as Metro Division Engineer should be involved. In addition, it was also stated that Hennepin County has also been actively in the Hwy. 610 project and should be brought in on this as well. It was decided that a meeting should be scheduled as soon as possible with officials at Mn/DOT to discuss the demonstration project possibility. LJR will follow up on this. V. Minnesota Transportation Alliance Membership. Raduenz proposed that the Commission consider joining the MTA at a cost of $225 per year. As its Executive Vice President, Fred Corrigan is at the Capitol constantly and does a good job of keeping his membership informed of the progress of legislation that affects them. A Legislative Alert is published weekly that summarizes the activities of the Legislature on transportation -related issues. A number of the other corridor groups belong to the Alliance including the Wakota Bridge Coalition and the Scott County Transporation Coalition. Elam moved that the Commission join the Minnesota Transportation Alliance and Senness seconded. Motion carried. VI. Schedule for City Council Presentations. City representatives were asked for dates at which the New Approach can be presented to their City Councils. It was determined that Raduenz and Thorfinnson will make the presentations with assistance from each community's Commission representatives. The following dates were proposed for individual City Council presentations: EDEN PRAIRIE - February 18 BLOOMINGTON - March 31 RICHFIELD - March 10, 7:OOpm PLYMOUTH - March 5; 6:OOpm MAPLE GROVE - March 24; 7:30pm MINNETONKA - March 24; 6:30pm EDINA - March 3; 7:OOpm Thorfinnson indicated that he will try to be available to attend some of the presentations at which he is not directly presenting. VII. Reformatting of Proposal for Presentation. Elam suggested that at some point the presentation could be turned into a video because pictures offer powerful messages. Curt Gutoske agreed and added that it could then be used to make a broader appeal. Several members offered suggestions on ways to go about putting a video together. These will be explored and reported on at the next meeting. For the time being, Lindahl and Thorfinnson proposed going out with a photographer from Eden Prairie's staff and taking some pictures of congestion to add to the overhead presentation for the City Councils. Jim Hovland wondered if it wouldn't be helpful to have some statistical information included in the presentation that supports some of its assertions. Thorfinnson replied that they hadn't been necessary for the mayors and city managers discussions but that it will be important to include them as the Commission changes focus and becomes more of an advocacy group. Raduenz suggested that LJR start gathering that information and include it within the presentation as it becomes available. VIII. Other Business. Raduenz reminded the group that the Legislative Reception is on Wednesday, February 19 and that anyone interested in attending should contact LJR as they are taking reservations. Second, Raduenz stated that the Commission should be aware that some of the welfare reform proposals involving transportation issues may be an opportunity for the group to become involved in helping businesses along the corridor link up with potential employees. Shallbetter indicated that the Met Council is looking at a number of options for providing transportation including a system of small vehicles controlled by people who link the applicants to the jobs. LJR will continue to follow this issue. LJR also handed out a list of meeting dates for the rest of 1997 and a new Commission membership list. IX. Next Meeting/Adjournment. The next meeting will be on Wednesday, March 12,1997 from 8:30- 10:30. The meeting was adjourned at 10:15am by Thorfinnson. a WAYZATA-PLYMOUTH AREA a CHEMICAL HEALTH COMMISSION Minutes February 14, 1997 Members present: Donna Marget, Tim McCarthy, Martha Anderson, Barbara Hickok, Craig Gerdes, Jeyn Hofacker, Gary Swedberg, Dave Hadden Introduction Letter from Greg Rye, attached. General discussion about Board. Addition to Agenda: Product display. Gary Swedberg - List for March meeting attached. Discussion regarding list; review of persons named; recommended additions to list. Jeyn Hofacker - Discussed letter regarding Draft Plan for ATOD prevention. Gary Swedberg - Request in the letter "lists" of current activities. Donna Marget - School district phone can be used for call-in (476-3230). Gary Swedberg - Request to establish small group for review prior to the actual meeting. March 7, 11:30 - 1:30 * A hope that as many commission members as possible will attend. Meeting will be held at St. Phillip's Church. Call 476-3230 to RSVP. Dave Hadden - Comments - How do people take things to where they work. Gary Swedberg - St. Phillip's needs $50.00 for clean-up. Motion by Craig Gerdes, seconded by Barb Hickok, motion passed (voice vote). Gary Swedberg - "Bring other groups together". Discussion regarding skateboard meeting Monday, February 17 at 2:30, Plymouth Library. Grant application for possible skateboard area from Monday meeting. Gary Swedberg - Required to leave. "Prior meeting" set for Tuesday February 25th, 2:00 p.m. at school district. Barbara Hickok, Jeyn Hofacker, Gary Swedberg, Donna Marget, Dave Hadden (?). 0 Agenda - Thank you notes passed around. Phone call - Greg Lynberg. Distributed red ribbons at Fire and Ice. Handout material on state-wide fall conference, St. Cloud. Treasurer's Report - None. Martha Anderson made motion to approve minutes, Tim McCarthy seconded, Approved. School Report: - Donna Marget New staff member Judy Hanson begins Monday February 24, four day work week until fall. Dee Hopfenspirger and others have been filling in. Continued middle school meetings. "We Love Our Kids". General discussion regarding meetings and possible changes for next year. Approximately 400 parents attended this year. Presentation by Teacher of the Year. Other "We Love Our Kids" information. College Issues: Martha Anderson to attend conference. Barb Hickok contacting colleges regarding use of video. Made presentation to Archdiocese. Letter from Benilde-St. Margaret's. Will make presentation to Southsore Ministerial Association. Copy of newspaper ad and two articles for copy. December 8 issue of Time article. Contacted U of W regarding binge drinking. Public Saft: Wayzata - working on tobacco ordinance, first reading; Plymouth - compliance checks. Jeyn Hofacker - discussion regarding action at state legislature. Tim McCarthy - discussion regarding chilly open and alcohol use. Who will make the comment - letter from commission regarding alcohol use to be reviewed by commission. General discussion regarding the letter. Donna Marget - grant application for "Goals 2000" regarding safe and drug free schools. Will look at priorities. Product Display - Jeyn Hofacker - regarding alcohol content items, i.e. Lemon Bolt, Monkey Bite, and Watter Mellon. Including handout of products. "Alcohol Marketing to Youth". Discussion regarding receiving donation on "Display Products for Demonstration". Dave Hadden - Augsburg College providing "recovering kids" housing. Also study skill program. Next meeting - Friday, March 14 at 7:00 a.m. Meeting adjourned at 8:20 a.m. Plymouth Human Rights Commission March 6,1997 Minutes Present: Mitzi Heath, Laurie Levi, Harvey Guttmann, Jackie Fraedrich, Councilmember Tim Wold, Assistant City Manager Kathy Lueckert Excused: Jeff Richards, Claudelle Carruthers Absent: Howard Sigal Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 7:35 pm. Guest The Human Rights Commission heard from Dr. Don Davidson about an alleged discriminatory action in Plymouth. Assistant City Manager Lueckert asked Dr. Davidson to send her information on the incident, and the HRC would review it to see if its involvement is appropriate. Approval of Agenda Mitzi Heath asked to add an update on "At the Lake Apartments." With this addition, the agenda was approved. Approval of Minutes The minutes of the February meeting were approved as presented. Old Business Calendar of Events. Kathy Lueckert reviewed the rolling calendar of events, and noted that it was time to request the City Council to declare Days of Remembrance. She also noted that the Random Acts of Kindness Program and another Regional Workshop are on the calendar for the spring. The Commission directed Kathy Lueckert to prepare a staff report to declare the "Day of Remembrance" on May 4, 1997. Random Acts of Kindness. Mitzi Heath said that she had spoken to Howard Sigal, who expressed concern about the funding required for the project. Harvey Guttmann suggested postponing discussion of the project until Howard Sigal and Jeff Richards are at a meeting. Jackie Fraedrich stated that involving the schools is a good idea, but she is confused about how this program fits in with the overall mission of the Human Rights Commission. "At the Lake Apartments" Mitzi Heath reported that she had spoken with the apartment manager. The HRC brochures were distributed, and there have been no other incidents of racial graffiti. Regional Workshop. The HRC discussed a possible regional school workshop in May. Invitations will be sent to all schools who participated in the September 1996 - ze workshop, but the primary focus will be on students from the school districts serving Plymouth. Mitzi Heath and Jackie Fraedrich will work on putting together a program. The tentative date for the workshop is Friday. May 2. New Business Student Involvement. The HRC discussed involving students in the commission. The Commission agreed to request that the city council change the city code and the by- laws to allow a student representative and an alternate from each of the four districts. The representatives must live in Plymouth. These seats would be in addition to the adult school district representatives, and would expand the membership of the HRC to fifteen. The HRC agreed to announce the availability of the seats at the May workshop, and to interview interested students as soon as possible. The Commission directed Kathy Lueckert to prepare the necessary city code and by-law changes. Community Education Plan. Mitzi Heath agreed to telephone former board and commission applicants who indicated interest in the HRC, and see if they are interested in helping with commission activities. Incident Report Form. Kathy Lueckert presented a draft of the incident report form. With one minor correction, the form was approved. The meeting adjourned at 9:00 pm. O InIO^ Published Monday:March1G.1997 — 7 r Editorial: Welfare reform �II One launching point for successful welfare -to -work reform is to connect poor people from inner-city neighborhoods with distant suburban employers. Job fairs are a way StarTribune Online to make such connections. That's why the current spread of job fairs to Plymouth and Opinion Maplewood is important. Like the pioneering "Destination Jobs" fair in Eden Prairie, now four years old, the Plymouth and Maplewood fairs will build or strengthen connections between inner-city neighborhood agencies and suburban employers. Those agencies have employment programs called job banks which can be a supportive starting point for an individual's job search. The first-time Plymouth "Reverse Commute Job Fair" will be held Thursday at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center on Campus Drive. Its principal sponsors are Plymouth Metrolink, that city's transit system, and New Unity, a North Minneapolis member of Pillsbury Neighborhood Services. For the job fair, New Unity serves as the link to other neighborhood agencies in the Minneapolis Employment Network. Nearly 30 businesses will participate in the job fair. The April 8 Maplewood job fair, the first of its kind in the east metro area, will serve inner-city residents and east metro businesses. Principal organizer is East Side Job Bank of Merrick Community Services on St. Paul's East Side. Perhaps as many as 30 businesses will participate. Job fair organizers hope that a stronger reverse commuting service for the east metro area will develop from the fair. While the MCTO provides bus service to the area, it does not offer the actively promoted reverse commuting service of the kind that serves southwest metro and Plymouth. Although job turnover is high, the job fair at the Eden Prairie Center (April 23 this year) and reverse commuting have worked so well that the federal government provided money to Hennepin County to produce a how-to report for distribution to other U.S. cities. Key players in that commuting include southwest suburban chambers of commerce, Southwest Metro Transit, Hennepin County and Loring Nicol let -Beth lehem, a church -supported inner-city agency that serves a lead role for referrals from other neighborhood agencies. Just as "Destination Jobs" opened hundreds of southwest suburban opportunities to Minneapolis residents, the New Unity connection will serve the same function for StarTribune Online northwest suburban jobs. The Maplewood fair will help St. Paul residents.. ! Opinion The job fairs, suburban work -force requirements and the needs of inner-city residents all point to the desirability of finding more ways to build the transportation connections between the inner cities and suburbs. As the Legislature wrestles with welfare reform, it should not overlook some possibilities proposed by the Metropolitan Council -- for example, more help with reverse commuting and more subsidies for bus passes for job seekers. The job fairs demonstrate a jobs potential that should be captured. Copyright 1997 Star Tribune. All rights reserved. I NORTHWEST HENNEPIN / -3b -, HUMAN SERVICES COUNCIL I Planning, Research, and Coordination of Human PLYMOUTH DATA PROFILE 1996-1997 POPULATION ♦ The 1995 estimated population of Plymouth was 58,960. This was 19.5% of the total population of northwest Hennepin County ♦ Plymouth experienced rapid growth between 1980 and 1990 from a population of 31,851 to a population of 50,889, an 80.2% increase. Between 1990 and 1995 the population increased 15.9%. ♦ In 1990, the median age in Plymouth was 31.9 years, similar to the Hennepin County median of 32.7 years. NATALITY ♦ In 1994, there were 884 live births in Plymouth. ♦ Of these births, 777 (87.9%) were to married women and 107 (12.11/o) were to unmarried women. ♦ In 1994, 2.7% (24) of the live births were to teenage mothers. This is lower than the northwest Hennepin suburban -vide figure of 5.1%. ♦ In 1994, 806 (91.2%) of the new mothers started pre -natal care in the first trimester, 50 (5.7%) began in the second trimester, and 10 (1.1%) began in the third trimester or received no care at all. CHILDREN AND YOUTH ♦ In 1990, Plymouth's population under age 18 was 13,882, 27% of the total population. ♦ In 1995, Plymouth had 4,052 children age 0 to 5 years and 6,098 children age 6 to 12 years. ♦ In 1995, Plymouth had 2,665 children in need of child care. Plymouth's child care providers had the capacity to serve 2,308 children in this age range. ♦ In 1995, Plymouth had 12 child care centers, 108 family child care homes, and 3 pre- schools. ♦ During the 1995-1996 school year, 135 families and 200 children in Plymouth were receiving economic assistance for child care from Hennepin County. ♦ The POINT Northwest program for runaway youth served 16 youth and adults from Plymouth in its 1995 caseload. This was 6.0% of the caseload and valued at $8,484. BROOKLYN CENTER CORCORAN GOLDEN VALLEY MAPLE GROVE PLYMOUTH BROOKLYN PARK CRYSTAL HANOVER NEW HOPE ROBBINSDALE CHAMPLIN DAYTON HASSAN OSSEO ROGERS 7601 Kentucky Avenue North • Brooklyn Park, MN 55428 (612) 493-2802 SENIORS ♦ The percentage of people age 65 and older in Plymouth was 5.0% (2,543) in 1990, much lower than the Hennepin County percentage of 11.3%. ♦ As of June 1996, 7.7% of Hennepin County Services to Seniors active cases within Northwest Hennepin County came from Plymouth. As of 1990, 11.1% of northwest Hennepin's seniors lived in Plymouth. RA ../ETHNICITY ♦ In 1990, 95.7% of Plymouth's population were Caucasian, 1.6% were African-American, 2.0% were Asian/Pacific Islander, 0.4% were Native American/Eskimo and 0.3% were of another race. ♦ In 1990, 1.0% of Plymouth's population were of Hispanic origin. HOUSEHOLDS/ HOUSING ♦ In 1995, there were an estimated 21,558 households with an estimated average of 2.70 persons per household. ♦ In 1996; the median market value for a single family home in Plymouth was $155,000. ♦ As of June 1996, Plymouth had 5,073 rental units. There were 114 studio apartments with an average rent of $478; 1,808 one bedrooms with an average rent of $620; 2,784 two bedrooms with an average rent of $743; and 367 three bedrooms with an average rent of $986. INCOME/POVERTY ♦ The median household income in Plymouth was $51,314 in 1989, a 7.9% increase since 1979 (in constant 1989 dollars). ♦ In 1989, 3.4% (1,681) of Plymouth residents were living in poverty. ♦ The number of people living in poverty increased in Plymouth by 96.8% from 1979 (854) to 1989 (1,681) while the overall population of Plymouth increased by 59.8%. ♦ In Plymouth in 1989, 3.1%.(1,471) of all Caucasians were living in poverty, 21.2% (114) of all African-Americans, 26.7% (46) of all Native Americans, 2.7% (29) of all Asian - Americans and 9.1% (29) of all Hispanics. ♦ In 1989, 4.4% (107) of all seniors in Plymouth lived in poverty. ♦ In 1989, 44.3% (94) of all female -headed households in Plymouth with children under age five lived in poverty. ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE ♦ As of December 31, 1995, Plymouth had 1,934 Medical Assistance clients, 968 Food Stamp clients, 517 AFDC clients, 118 General Assistance clients, and 364 clients receiving other cash grants from Hennepin County. PREPARED BY: Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council SOURCES: Apartment Search Bureau of the Census Greater Minneapolis Day Care Association Hennepin County Assessor's Office Hennepin County Office of Planning and Development Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council �-- 3c Plymouth job fair solicits workers and revers... - Microsoft Internet Explorer IH0 �1+ 00 I Pubiished Friday.evlarch 14. 1997 Plymouth job fair solicits workers and �. t{ reverse commuters Dan Wascoe Jr. / Star Tribune StarTribune0nline Metra It started a year ago when a Plymouth company, Zomax Optical Media Inc., couldn't hire enough workers to keep its costly plastic injection molding press humming around the clock. "We were out beating the bushes for people," said Gary Mittelbusher, Zomax's human resources executive. But help -wanted ads, employment agencies and windshield fliers weren't enough in Plymouth, where unemployment in 1996 averaged 2.3 percent. Zomax asked the city for help, and that led to the Commute West Job Fair on Thursday at the Radisson Hotel in Plymouth. The city's Metrolink buses provided free service between downtown Minneapolis and the hotel, where 38 employers interviewed a diverse stream of applicants. Job fairs are gaining popularity as suburban companies search for employees to fill entry-level jobs. The task is difficult because the people likely to accept such positions often can't afford to live in the suburbs. The fair was modeled after a similar four-year-old event in Eden Prairie that attracts about 50 employers and more than 500 applicants, recruiting officials said. Another fair is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 8 at the Maplewood Mall. At each location, organizers offer information about child-care services, transportation, job training and education. Jobs to fill The jobs, mostly full-time with benefits, ranged from home health care to aluminum finishing, from mailing, clerical duties and assembly to fast-food restaurant work. Many paid $6 to $10 an hour. Jewel Tomlinson, 23, hopped the bus from Minneapolis in the hope of finding housekeeping or assembly work. She said the process isn't any different from looking downtown: "They tell you,'We'll call you.'" Robert Wainwright, 37, who recently moved to Minneapolis, said he appreciated having dozens of employers in one place, offering decent starting pay. "I'm at the right place," he said. "I hope it will be at the right time." Organizers hoped to attract 100 to 300 applicants, and despite steady snowfall, Thursday's tally was 379. Several employers said that if they hired just one or two people, the fair would be a success. The setup fee of $150 was cheaper than other recruiting methods, they said. Although some workers were hired Thursday, organizers said a total figure won't be possible until followup interviews are complete. Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton, who rode a Metrolink bus to 3/14/97 8:24:09 AM Plymouth job fair solicits workers and revers... - Microsoft Internet Explorer Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton, who rode a Metrolink bus to Plymouth, said such support is necessary to help workers trying to wean themselves from welfare programs. "On July 1, the clock starts ticking on 2,700 people [in Minneapolis] who will have to find work in two years" under changes in welfare laws, she said. A stable source of transit funds would make reverse commuting service more available, she said. Shannon Johnson, who recruits job applicants through New Unity Inc., a nonprofit agency in Minneapolis, said funds are available to help employers train new workers so they can advance to better -paying jobs. 'Where to turn?' But the welfare -reform aspect probably is more important to job -seekers than to employers, said Bill Arendt, vice president of human resources for Scoville Press Inc. in Plymouth. Welfare recipients "can see the end [of benefits] coming and they're asking, 'Where am I going to turn?' " he said. The popularity of job fairs focused on reverse commuting is growing because suburban companies are finding it more difficult to recruit employees. The average statewide unemployment rate was 3.5 percent in January, according to the state Department of Economic Security. It was even lower, 2.5 percent, in Hennepin County (including Minneapolis); 3.1 percent in Minneapolis; and 1.9 percent in Plymouth. "Two years ago you couldn't get people interested in reverse commuting," said Xavier Escobedo, coordinator for the East Side Job Bank in St. Paul. In Plymouth, however, reverse commuting was established for years before the job fair. John Sweeney, Metrolink's administrator, said that the service StarTribune online gave 227,000 rides on its fixed routes in 1996, and about 40,800, or about Metro 18 percent, were for reverse commuting. Many people seeking entry-level jobs cannot afford to live in the suburbs, but Johnson noted that some Minneapolis job -seekers don't want to live in the suburbs because they don't feel welcome and because they don't want to rely on a car. No matter how many jobs were filled Thursday, the fair helped meet another goal, said Pamela Parker, human resource manager for Aacron Inc., a 50 -employee firm that finishes aluminum products. The fair prompted businesses and community agencies to pool their efforts, she said, and "to solve problems -- that's what has to happen." © Copyright 1997 Star Tribune. All nghts reserved. 3/14/97 8:24:10 AM No Fares. No Blarneq.'m � 9w T-� d FREE �000 ON ST. PATRICK'S DAY Mayor Joy Tierney City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447-1482 Dear Mayor Tierney: As St. Patrick's Day approaches, Metropolitan Council Transit Operations (MCTO), Miller Brewing Company and numerous community partners are working together to help ensure Twin Cities residents can have a safe, responsible celebration. On March 17, the Miller Free RidessM program will provide free bus rides on all regular MCTO routes from 6 p.m. until the end of regular service. Because St. Patrick's Day is one of the most celebrated holidays, we know this program can have a meaningful and lasting impact. The program is also a way for everyone involved to take a proactive step to remind people to think when they drink, plan ahead and take advantage of this free service. Miller Brewing Company is involved in numerous alternative transportation programs throughout the country, including offering Miller Free RidessM programs in Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison, Wis. Miller takes great pride in providing these transportation programs as part of its overall'community outreach and responsible consumption efforts. We believe it is important to personally inform community leaders such as yourself about this important program. MCTO and Miller are working in cooperation with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, the Minneapolis Police Department, the Ramsey County Sheriffs Department, the Hennepin County Sheriff's Department, the Minneapolis Downtown Council, the Capital City Partnership, the Minneapolis St. Patrick's Day Association, the Minnesota Licensed Beverage Association, the St. Paul Hospitality Association, East Side Beverage Company and the Minnesota Timberwolves to help inform the public about this important community service. If you have any questions about the MCTO Miller Free RidessM program or Miller's responsible consumption efforts, please contact Jim Macchitelli, MCTO marketing manager, at (612) 349-7694 or Dianne Markut, manager of corporate communications, at (414) 931-4540. Please enjoy a safe and happy St. Patrick's Day celebration. Sincerely, Juli�ohansoy"�*— ichael Dwyer Acting General Manager Minnesota Market Area General Manager Metropolitan Councit Transit Operations Miller Brewing Company wane rennNo nr19118 »u »: QMetropolitan Council WHEN - Transit Operations You DRINK 580 Mak Avmw N� * A�°wtarirytwrkjp baearM�mdC�s litoAsiNyrtiAo 3939 W. NWhnd 81W. Mimap kMN 554114398 &MNOW Bnw(s/CospsirWd MimuketW1 53201.0482 (812)373.3333 mampofte cemoa/TnfisitOPWROWs(NCTOI (414) 931.2000 March 10, 1997 Roger and Carol Handberg 3630 Zanzibar Lane North Plymouth, MN 55446-2686 Dear Mr. and Ms. Handberg: r-43 l CITY OF PLYMOUTR In response to your request, we have added your name to our mailing list for the proposed project south of Sugar Hills Town Homes. At the present time, we are anticipating that project will go to the Planning Commission on April 8. However, that date is subject to change and we will mail you a notice of the Public Hearing when it is officially scheduled. Should you have any further questions in the interim, please contact the principal staff reviewer, Kendra Lindahl, at 509-5453. I would like to clarify three of the issues that you identified in your letter. First, you indicated that the property in question was originally planned as residential/office. Prior to December 1996, the land use guiding for this property was CL (Limited Business), a classification focused primarily on office development. The current guiding is CO (Commercial Office) which has a similar focus, although housing may be appropriate. The zoning of the parcel is FRD (Future Restricted Development), which is essentially a holding category until development is proposed. The zoning districts compatible with the CO guiding include BC (Business Campus) and OR (Office Residential). Both of these districts have an office orientation. Residential development is allowed as a conditional use in the OR District. The City has received a request from Moen Leuer Construction to rezone the property from its current FRD (Future Restricted Development) to B -C (Business Campus). A Conditional Use Permit is also requested in order to allow up to 50% accessory storage and warehouse space. You also indicated that 36`h Avenue is not designed for commercial use. Because the uses south of 36th Avenue have been planned as commercial for quite some time, 36`h Avenue was designed to handle commercial traffic volumes. I hope this information clears up any misunderstanding about the current status of the affected property. Kendra Lindahl, principal staff reviewer, would be happy to answer any additional questions you may have about this matter. Sincerely, Anne W. Hurlburt, AICP Community Development Director cc: Kendra Lindahl PLYMOUTH :1 Beautili [Place To Live 3400 PLY'.SOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 9 TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 MARCH 6„ 1997 MS. ANNE 14URLBURT DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD. PLYMOUTH, MINN.55447-1482 Dear MS. HURLBURT. f- 4 ;:�4 RECENTLY IT HAS BEEN RUMORED THAT THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH HAS BEEN HAVING DISCUSSIONS AND /OR IS DEVELOPING PLANS TO ALTER THE USE OF THE PROPERTY SOUTH OF 36TH STREET ;NORTH OF HGWY 55;WEST OF VICKSBURG ;EAST OF ROCKFORD ROAD(EAST OF THE OF THE WETLANDS).(HEREAFTER REFERRED TO AS "SAID" PROPERTY). THIS LETTER IS TO INFORM THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH THAT REZONING( RM IS EQUIVALENT TO LAND USE) OF THIS PROPERTY WILL BE CHALLENGED VIA ALL AVENUES AVAILABLE TO US FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS AS A MINIMUM: 1.WHEN WE PURCHASED OUR TOWNHOUSE, THE BUILDER HARSTAD HOMES, SOLD US OUR TOWNHOUSE WITH THE STATEMENT THAT THE SAID PROPERTY WAS ZONED AS RESIDENTIAL/OFFICE AND THAT THE ONLY DEVELOPMENT THAT WOULD BE PURSUED ON THAT LAND WOULD BE RESIDENTIAL HOMES OR SMALL OFFICE BUILDINGS. 2. PRIOR TO PURCHASING OUR TOWNHOUSE THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH CONFIRMED THE ZONING OF THE SAID PROPERTY AS RESIDENTIAL/OFFICE . AT NO TIME PRIOR TO/ OR AFTER OUR PURCHASE OF OUR TOWNHOUSE HAS THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH INFORMED US(IN ANY MANNER) OF ANY CHANGES TO THE ZONING OF SAID PROPERTY. 3. WE RECENTLY HEARD RUMORS THAT THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH HAS ENTERED INTO DISCUSSIONS WITH A POTENTIAL BUILDER WHO REQUESTS THAT THE CITY ALLOW THE ZONING BE CHANGED FROM RESIDENTIAL/OFFICE TO OFFICEIWAREHOUSE SO THEY CAN BUILD WAREHOUSING ON SAID LAND AND THAT THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH IS CONSIDERING THIS REQUEST. WE WILL CONSIDER SUCH A MAJOR CHANGE IN THE ZONING AND DECLARED USE OF SAID LAND AS INFLICTING SIGNIFICANT DAMAGES ON THIS PROPERTY OWNER BY THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH..... POTENTIAL DAMAGES THAT WOULD BE PURSUED ARE PROVIDING INACCURATE INFORMATION OF FUTURE PLANS AT THE TIME OF OUR PURCHASE OF THE TOWNHOUSE, MAJOR REDUCTION IN PROPERTY VALUE, TOWNHOUSE DAMAGE DUE TO HEAVY LARGE SEMITRUCKS DRIVING ON 36TH WHICH WAS NOT DESIGNED TO ALLOW SUCH TYPE TRAFFIC AND THE INABILITY TO ATTRACT POTENTIAL BUYERS TO NAME A FEW. WE HOPE THESE RUMORS OF REZONING ARE INCORRECT AND THAT THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH IS NOT OR HAS NOT ENTERED INTO DISCUSSIONS TO CHANGE SAID ZONING WITHOUT FIRST DISCUSSING SAID PLANS WITH THE CITIZENS AFFECTED BY SUCH A PROCESS;HOWEVER IF THE RUMOR IS TRUE, WE CONSIDER THIS ISSUE TO BE OF MAJOR CONCERN. THEREFORE WE REQUEST THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH PROVIDE US IN WRITING THE PRESENT ZONING OF SAID PROPERTY AND INVOLVE US IN ALL FUTURE DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING SAID PROPERTIES AS IT RELATES TO ZONING ISSUES. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION OF THIS REQUEST AND WE ANTICIPATE WE WILL HEAR FROM THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH PRIOR TO ANY FUTURE DISCUSSIONS ON REZONING OF SAID PROPERTY. SINCERELY YOURS ROGER HANDBERG 3630 ZANZIBAR LANE NORTH PLYMOUTH,MN 55446-2686 ✓ CC. JOY TIERNEY CITY OF PLYMOUTH MAYOR CC: TIM BILDSOE CITY OF PLYMOUTH COUNCIL MEMBER WARD I C.C.:JUDY JOHNSON CHRISTIAN PREUS CITY OF PLYMOUTH COUNCIL MEMBERS AT LARGE CAROL HANDBERG Z-46 Liz & Paul Schupanitz 4600 Trenton Circle Plymouth, MN 55442 612-557-9356 March 10, 1997 Joy Tierney, Mayor Members of the City Council Members of the Planning Commission BY FAX bear Representatives of the City of Plymouth, We are writing you to express our viewpoint on the proposed Gramercy Park development. We live along the northwest corner of the site, next to (lie park path. While we in no way oppose the idea of I a senior citizen housing on the site, we strongly urge you to reject the current proposal. Being new to the city in 1987, we got all the information we could about future development behind our now horn. We visited City Hall several times, asked questions and got plans. It was with this information we made our decision to build in Plymouth. Over the years the city has been vigilant in adhering to those plans. The fact that the planning department staff would approve the current plan has shaken our faith in the city's interest in looking out for its citixens. This plan varies from the original one in many important ways: "rhe site has shrunk. Wetland restrictions of today would not allow the original proposal to he built as presented. Additional wetlands have been delineated on the site and the building is being sited on them forcing mitigation. Current surface water management practices call for ponds that weren't required then. The building has grown. The building is bigger than the original PUD had shown. The individ- ual units are much larger than a traditional apartmc» t building -1,047 sq. ft. on average. Ten pounds in a fiveupo nd bag. The shoe -horning being done on the site is apparent. The entire natural vegetation buffer on the northwest corner of the site will be obliterated. There is nowhere left for the developer to provide screening on site. so he is attempting to pay compensation to some of the the affected homeowners. A worst-case scenario. In the report the wetland mitigation being proposed on clic northwest corner of the site is referred to as a "worst case scenario". There seems to be an implication that something more desirable will probably happen—this is not the case! The developer wants approval now, based only on this plan. The "worst case" is the only scenario being presented. And it definitely deserves this title. Many other factors are at issue here, but one is paramount. Citi7.ens must be able to count on the city for information in making one of the biggest decisions in their lives, namely in buying a home. The city is continuously frustrated when homeowners complain about something being built behind them that they didn't know about. Well we knew about what was planned behind us, and it wasn't this! A loophole for the developer, a mine -field for citizens. The recent change in zoning ordinance only makes this matter more complicated. The recommendation by the Planning Department brings up many issues that it never resolves. The Council and Planning Commission both have a lot of discretion in regards to the requests lx;ing made. We would like to see our representa- tives in city government interested in resolving these issues. We have constantly been reminded about the developer's rights. The developer has the right to "reasonable development" of the site—worse case is NOT reasonable in Plymouth. We don't have the resources the developer does, therefore we must rely on Y= to safeguard our interests. Where is the compro is ? The site shrinks, the building grows, it gets closer and the transition between our homes and this building is the only thing that is truly compromised. We would like to sec the size of the building reduced. A reduction sizable enough to avoid the destruction of the northwest part of the site. This was never even consideru d by staff. Can yoo consider it'! The developer is asking for many changes: guiding, zoning, site plan amendment and variance:. He is justifying, this in part, and the staff compares throughout their report, the plan's similarity to the original. You should only grant these requests if everyone is assured that the intent and restrictions of the original plan are adhered to. Please consider these issues and others that will be discussed at the upcoming meetings and uphold what we consider to be Plymouth's fine reputation for doing right by its citizens. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Liz & Paul Schupanitz March 9, 1997 Mayor Joy Tierney Plymouth City Center 3400 Plymouth Boulevard ry Plymouth, MN 55447 5 Dear Mayor Joy Tierney, Today I read in the Sunsailor Newspaper about the Plans for the regional trail around East Medicine Lake. I think that making new trails around Plymouth is a great idea. People can bike on them hike or jog. It's a great way to get out and do something. I think you should carry out the plan as soon as you can. Are you going to make the trails this summer? Could you please send me a copy of the blue prints of what the trail is going to look like? How many miles of trail are you going to add. Is the trail going to be paved? If it isn't, I think that it should be, because roller skaters couldn't skate on it if it wasn't paved. Sincerely, Michael Smith 4880 Saratoga Ln. N. Plymouth, MN 55442 z 19 CN a,ON t4. V� OOH 00 .". `Qt — O, ON ON O CO) V1 00 i i i i N N N N N N N •--• N N N N N M N M N M N M N M N M C4 . �p �D �p �O �p l� l� DD l I l � .-• .-. ... N N M (V enM •-. .-. M .� M 1� ON T 9� T T i M M t7 . V1 i v1 l� � l� � ao ^ N N 00 N M M n O C-4 n p .•.. � � � N N N M M M M M Y N a N � � cc o c � •v N o Q p c00 O Gn a >, > co Q E o c C 402N c ° E u>> > Y a.+ C Vi 'fl 'fl c N 0q 'U a. a. O E-• a. r t oq 3 o _ y N �' acl .0 c cc ma 3 y c�a c ° s 00 E at t c$" s Z E 3" c c° ` on Y_—,11 ° 3 to s z o v v v v o v 73 =92> cO O =�Oa v1 ¢E O U cn x c n. ) Q cc000y E c CL a.. n a.Z] a c E E E 'v U o c c E Q E «t E ++ d Y n O y c Eo C co ° r- 73 �-- i>° oxa C> 0 ° E u O ce=0 Y m O� o E U0 -E— cn cliU U c3 E o o au a. v � :co s v s av o (ny° a >jG .E C x �. Q¢ ca co c c cd x t:C x v co co v ¢ v Evc* im mx.,aoG Gn ooc� a3i ` E o r- A 7N xC 0 0 C7e co a ZzcnC7C7oGe.'� �•, Ea.r�U��C7¢iE-� � � £Q c M �"• NOy YN Y CA NfA cn Y.D3 N L'.. O N O c .. T7 d.. .... O > o o 04 °mxxx � �YO mx N M tt h �C t� a0 O� C fV M W; ^ 00 O\ N N N A a gyin: . it i i �= ,;r .: �= f Minnesota Pollution Control Agency a March 10, 1997 The Honorable Joy Tierney Mayor, City of Plymouth City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, Minnesota 55447-1482 Dear Mayor Tierney: Enclosed is Permit Number 20939 for the construction and operation of a sanitary sewer extension system to be located in Plymouth, Minnesota. Please carefully review the permit, including any Special Conditions, General Conditions (No. 1-20) and information relative to plans and the permit application. Please let us know if you have any questions regarding these documents. If you do have questions, you may contact me at the address listed below or call me at (612) 296-7762. If you like, you may also use our toll free number, which is 1-800-657-3864. Sincerely, Donald K. Perwien, P.E., Staff Engineer Compliance Unit 1 Point Source Compliance Section Water Quality Division DKP:gar Enclosures: Sewer Extension Permit General Conditions cc: City Council c/o Dwight Johnson, City Manager Fred Moore, Director of Public Works, Plymouth McCombs, Frank, Roos, Associates, Inc. Metropolitan Council - Environmental Services c/o Don Bluhm Metropolitan Council - Environmental Services c/o Marcel Jouseau 520 Lafayette Rd. N.; St. Paul, MN 55155-4194; (612) 296-6300 (Voice); (612) 282-5332 (TTY) SSE.doc 9/96 Regional Offices: Duluth - Brainerd - Detroit Lakes - Marshall - Rochester Equal Opportunity Employer • Printed on recycled paper containing at least 200/6 fibers from paper recycled by consumers. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency PERMIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF A DISPOSAL SYSTEM CITY OF PLYMOUTH Hennepin County Pursuant to authorization by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), and in accordance with the provisions of Minn. Stat. chs. 115 and 116, plans are approved and a permit is hereby granted to the above -referenced Permittee for the construction and operation of a sanitary sewer extension in Plymouth, Minnesota. The facilities will consist of 3,073 linear feet of 8 -inch sanitary sewer pipe. The facilities are further described in MPCA approved standard specifications and plans designated as: "Conor Meadows" received February 12, 1997, prepared by McCombs, Frank, Roos, Associates, Inc. for the city of Plymouth. It is the Permittee's responsibility to assure compliance with any special conditions and the general conditions that are required by this permit. This includes taking all necessary measures needed to comply, including, but not limited to, the notification of contractors or others who may be carrying out this work. PERMIT NUMBER: 20939 DATED: March 10, 1997 Douglas A. Hall, Superv(((isor Permits/Technical Review Unit Point Source Compliance Section Water Quality Division SSE.doc 9/96 520 Lafayette Rd. N.; St. Paul, MN 55155-4194; (612) 296-6300 (Voice); (612) 282-5332 (TTY) Regional Offices: Duluth - Brainerd - Detroit Lakes - Marshall - Rochester Equal Opportunity Employer • Printed on recycled paper containing at least 200% fibers from paper recycled by consumers. Off•' .tej��,- `�� March 10, 1997 The Honorable Joy Tierney Mayor of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Joy: Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners would like to acknowledge receipt of $7,500 from the City of Plymouth for the CONECT program. As you know, CONECT continues to grow and is now providing services to families at both Regency Point and Lake View Commons apartment complexes in Plymouth. We are indeed grateful to the City of Plymouth for your generous support. CONECT is a wonderful example of how different components of the community can work together to improve life for all of our citizens. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to this project. Again, many thanks! Sincerely, Carol Bergenstal, Development Director Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners 110 Grand Avenue South, Wayzata, Minnesota 55391-1872 612/473-2436 Fax 612/473-4337 March 10, 1997 Dear Resident: � CITY of PLYMOUTFF The City of Plymouth Parks Department will be renovating the Imperial Hills Play Area during the 1997 season. Traditionally, we include play areas for two to five year olds and five to twelve year olds. Included within the play area are new swings, spring animals, and diggers. Due to today's safety standards, play areas require more space than they use to. As a result, we may look at flip flopping the existing basketball and play structure areas. In other words, the basketball pad may go where the play area is and vice versa. I would expect the actual construction to take place sometime during the months of July or August. The time frame from design to finished product can take up to five months. If you have any comments regarding the new play area, please contact me prior to April P'. Feel free to contact me at 509=5941 any time during the process if you have questions. Sincerely, Mark S. Peterson Superintendent of Parks cc: Eric Blank, Director of Parks & Recreation PLYMOUTH A Beau tifulPlaceTo Live 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 �[4 March 10, 1997 CITY OF PLYMOUTF+ Dear Resident: The City of Plymouth Parks Department will be renovating the Circle Park Play Area during the 1997 season. Traditionally, we include play areas for two to five year olds and five to twelve year olds. Included within the play area are new swings, spring animals, and diggers. I would expect the actual construction to take place sometime during the months of July or August. The time frame from design to finish product can take up to five months. If you have any comments regarding the new play area, please contact me prior to April Is`. Feel free to contact me at 509-5941 any time during the process if you have questions. Sincerely, Mark S. Peterson Superintendent of Parks cc: Eric Blank, Director of Parks & Recreation PLYMOUTH ABeau tifulPlace?o Live 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 h LMC LooPw Qf mm""V& 01W cot, rwWo6no aye ah"M /�-6 FRIDAYFAx Vol. 3, No. 1 A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Cities March 7,1997 When is reform not reform? Levy limits gaining momentum Three weeks ago, the Friday - Fax warned you that many legisla- tors were looking at levy limits. The good news is that no levy limits have yet been enacted by the Legislature. The bad news is that there are more than two months left in the session, and momentum for some form of local levy restriction is growing. There are rumors that there is bipartisan support for levy limits or referenda requirements in both the House and Senate. The push for levy limits may be an indication that the Legislature is unable to agree on a true reform proposal. In addition, the Governor released information on his prop- erty tax reform proposal, which would require voter approval for levy increases above inflation. The proposal would also make the school property tax a state educa- tion property tax, reduce business and apartment class rates, insti- tute a new homestead credit program, create a new "truth in budgeting" process, and phase out the 5320 million LGA base and shift those funds to schools. The rationale for levy restric- tions fails under scrutiny. The push for levy limits is driven by the belief that if the state takes over more school funding to relieve the property tax burden, cities and counties will quickly levy back all the initial savings to taxpayers. This ignores the fact that nearly two-thirds of the growth in the property tax since 1990 has been in school levies, while counties and cities account for 26 and 10 percent of the growth, respectively. Taking more school funding off the property tax will do more to decrease property tax growth than imposing levy limits on other local governments. City and county property taxes have increased since 1990. But in both cases, stagnant state aids have increased local reliance on property taxes as a revenue source. The per capita revenue base (levies and state aids) has not kept up with inflation since 1990 for either cities or counties. The coming weeks will see a lot of action on property tax is- sues. Senator Sandra Pappas (DFL -St. Paul), chair of the Senate Property Tax and Local Govern- ment Budget Division, will hold hearings all month on various aspects of tax reform. On March 12 the division will hold a meeting at 4:30 p.m. to discuss reform of the classification system. On March 19 at 4 p.m. they will discuss the LGA and HACA programs. The meetings will be held in Room 15 of the Capitol. A major reform proposal is expected soon from Senator Doug Johnson (DFL -Cook) and Repre- sentative Dee tong (DFL -Minne- apolis) --the two tax chairs. An- other was released this week from Senator Steve Novak (DFL -New Brighton). With the Governor in the debate, the discussion and struggle for consensus will inten- sify. Moratorium proposed A bill introducd this week would place a moratorium on new grants and payments on existing grants, Ioans,TIF, tax waivers, and tax deductions for economic development, new expenditures for economic development, and financial assistance for the con- struction or rebuilding of a profes- sional sports stadium. This mora- torium would apply to all state agencies and local units of gov- ernment until the department of trade and economic development meets certain reporting require- ments on the effect of such incentives on wage levels and job creation. S.F. 949 is authored by Sena- tors Pat Piper (DFL -Austin), Becky Lourey (DFL- Kerrick), and Ellen Anderson (DFL -St. Paul). The companion bill, H.F. 1192, is authored by Representatives Rob Leighton (DFL -Austin), Tom Rukavina (DFL -Virginia), Matt Entenza (DFL -St. Paul), Luanne Koskinen (DFL -Coon Rapids), and Kevin Knight (R -Bloomington.) The bill has been referred to the Senate Jobs, Energy & Com- munity Development Committee and the House Economic and International Trade Committee. No hearings have been scheduled at this time. We urge you to contact your senators and representatives regarding the potential impact of such a moratorium on your com- munity. .. ... .. n..r._ r_•-.....-..-..w,..t D�I..Knwr liar" NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release March 18,199- FROM: 8,199"FROM: Senator Doug Johnson Rep. Dee Long 205 State Capitol 443 State Office Building St. Paul, MN 55155 St. Paul, MN 55155 (612)296-8881 (612)296-0171 Tax Chairs Focus on Property Tax Relief, Reform House and Senate tax committee chairs Dee Long and Doug Johnson today announced a property tax reform proposal that will provide $1.5 billion in relief over the next three years. The proposal focuses resources on immediate relief and ensures meaningful, long-term property tax reform. "We have put together a package that provides relief to Minnesota property taxpayers and reforms of our tax system," said Johnson (DFL -Tower). "These taxpayers have contributed the most to the state's economic health, so they should get some back." "This is a responsible package that focuses on the priorities of most Minnesotans: education and tax reform," added Rep. Dee Long (DFL -Minneapolis). "Instead of writing a one-time check, as some have proposed, we've heard more support for using the state surplus to invest in our future." The Johnson -Long proposal targets $972 million for additional state support of K-12 education by relieving the local property tax burden and providing direct tax relief to property taxpayers. The proposal also provides $574 million for the income -sensitive circuit breaker for the state's property tax refund system, targeting relief to homeowners and renters who need it the most. "Most Minnesota taxpayers will see relief in our plan," Johnson noted. "We ease the burden of property taxes by increasing the state share of education spending and by bringing rates down to a much fairer level." The Johnson -Long proposal reduces the property tax rate on several classes of property. Rental housing will see relief, allowing building owners to pass on the savings to renters, catch up on deferred maintenance and finance building improvements. The plan also provides relief to commercial -industrial properties, especially small businesses. "The state -- in fact, the entire nation -- has enjoyed a strong economy recently, so we are fortunate to have a budget surplus," Long said. "That certainly makes it easier to provide immediate tax relief, but long-term reform is just as important. That's what we are working toward." -30- ' SEN., JOHNSON / REP. LONG TAX REFORM GOALS • Fairness • Reduced School Property Taxes Simplification • Increased Accountability • More Tax Relief to Taxpayer SEN. JOHNSON /REP. LONG PROPOSAL PROPERTY TAX RELIEF ($ MILLIONS) CIRCUIT BREAKER INCREASE K-12 SCHOOL LEVY REDUCTION TOTAL PROPERTY TAX RELIEF $198 $396 $302 $670 $500 $19066 IR e R NEW CLASSIFICATION RATE SYSTEM JOHNSON/LONG CURRENT PROPOSAL LAW SINGLE FAMILY PRIMARY RESIDENCE: OWNER OCCUPIED UNDER $729000 1.0% 1.0% OVER $72,000 2.0% 2.0% RENTAL UNDER $72,000 1.0% 2.3% OVER $729000 2.0% 2.3% (TIER BREAKPOINT IS INDEXED, "CIRCUIT BREAKER" INCREASED BY $198 MILLION/YR) DUPLEXES, TRIPLEXES 2.0% 2.3% APARTMENTS COMMERCIALANDUSTRIAL/ UTILITY: IST TIER 2ND TIER 2.5% 3.4% 2.5% 3.0% 4.0% 4.6% (THE TIER BREAKPOINT FOR C/I AND UTILITY PROPERTY UNDER THE. JOHNSON / LONG PROPOSAL IS INCREASED FROM $100,000 IN MARKET VALUE TO $200,000) i PROPERTY TAX CUTS OVERALL REDUCTION: ALL PROPERTIES -12.1 RESIDENTIAL HOMESTEADS -8.0% FARM HOMESTEADS -12.9% CABINS -1.1% BUSINESS/UTILITY -11.1% APARTMENTS -23.4% • THE REDUCTION COMPARES CURRENT LAW PAYABLE 1997 TO PAYABLE 1997 IF THE JOHNSON/LONG PROPOSAL WERE IN EFFECT. • PROJECTED IMPACTS ARE BASED ON THE MOST CURRENT AVAILABLE DATA. RESULTS WILL CHANGE WHEN THE PROPOSAL IS SIMULATED ON PAYABLE 1998 MARKET VALUES AND TAX ASSUMPTIONS.) Z HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX RELIEF TYPICAL MINNESOTA HOMESTEADS 1. $43,000 HOME IN GREATER MINNESOTA FAMILY OF FOUR $25,000 HOUSEHOLD INCOME • CURRENT LAW TAX = $500 • JOHNSON/LONG TAX RELIEF= $82 • PERCENTAGE REDUCTION = 16.4% 2. $759000 HOME IN THE METRO AREA FAMILY OF FOUR $25,000 HOUSEHOLD INCOME • CURRENT LAW TAX = $686 • JOHNSON/LONG TAX RELIEF= $138 • PERCENTAGE REDUCTION = 20.1% 3. $112,000 HOME IN THE METRO AREA FAMILY OF FOUR $40,000 HOUSEHOLD INCOME • CURRENT LAW TAX = $1,483 • JOHNSON/LONG TAX RELIEF= $178 • PERCENTAGE REDUCTION = 12.0% 4. $1499000 HOME IN THE METRO AREA FAMILY OF FOUR $60,000 HOUSEHOLD INCOME • CURRENT LAW TAX = $2,461 • JOHNSON/LONG TAX RELIEF= $228 0 PERCENTAGE REDUCTION = 9.2% w d SEN. JOHNSON 1 REP. LONG TAX REFORM PROPOSAL TAX RELIEF TO HYPOTHETICAL PROPERTIES Assumptions: Family of four. Incomes of $25,000 for low valued home, $40,000 for average value home and $60,000 for above ay Statewide Statewide Metro Metro Non-rnetro Non -metro Market Dollar Market Dollar Percentage Market Dollar Percentage. Market Dollar Percentage Type of Homestead Value Reduction Reduction Value Reduction Reduction Value Reduction Reduction LOW $61,000 j $131 ; 21.6% $75,000 $138 I 20.1% $43,000 $82; 16.4% AVERAGE $91,000'`` $12911 10.4% $112,000 $1781 12.0%. $65,000 I $0 0.0% ABOVE AVERAGE i $121,000 I $1631 7.9% $149,0007 $2281 9.2% $86,000 ; . $01 0.0% _ Assumptions: Family of four. Incomes of $25,000 for low valued home, $40,000 for average value home and $60,000 for above ay Assumption: Assumes property elgible for 3% proposed 2.5% on first $100,000 proposed $200,000 of market value Statewide Metro Non-rnetro Market Dollar Percentage , Market Dollar Percentage Market Dollar Percentage Apartment Value Reduction Reduction Value Reduction Reduction Value Reduction Reduction $100,0001 $1,0711 26.0% $100,000 $1,091 ; 25.8%: $100,000 $1,039 26.3% $5000001 $5,353: 26.0% ; $500,000 $5,456 ! 25.8%1 $500,000 I $5,197 26.3% $1.000,000 $10,706 26.0% '$1.000,0001 $10,912' 25.8%:$1,000,000, $10.394, 26.3% Assumption: Assumes property elgible for 3% proposed 2.5% on first $100,000 proposed $200,000 of market value Statewide Metro Non -metro Market Dollar Percentage i Market Dollar Percentage I Market Dollar Percentage Single Family Rental Value Reduction Reduction ! Value Reduction Reduction i Value Reduction Reduction $61,0001 $955 . $75,0001 $1,1911 55.5%1 $43,000 $6491 56.4% Statewide Metro Non -metro Market Dollar Percentage Market Dollar Percentage' Market Dollar Percentage Commercial Industrial ; Value Reduction Reduction i Value Reduction Reduction , Value Reduction Reduction i $100,000 $586 16.1% i $100,0001 $5941 15.9%1 $100,000 $5741 16.4% $500,000 $5,198 20.1% ` $500,0001 $5,282 19.9% $500,000 , $5,065 ! 20.3% S1 000.000 ; $8.678 16.1% $1,000,000 $8,7891 15.9% :$1,000,000 $8,490! 16.4% Assumption: Assumes property elgible for 3% proposed 2.5% on first $100,000 proposed $200,000 of market value Sen. Johnson / Rep. Long vs. Governor Carlson Percentage Property Tax Reduction By Major Class Governor Johnson/Long Carlson Residential -8.0% -5.4% Homestead Non -Homestead -39.8% -4.8% 1-3 Units Apartments 4+ -23.4% -7.3% Units Comm/Ind/Utility -11.1 % -9.3% PINK 14 - -V J4.3(1-1'1 LC_H-oUC Vr 1-11• 1,111L0 r.L LLMC, - R/DA Y Ax -�---- Vol. 2, No. 10 "►M=F=W A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Cities March 14,1997 Rights of way hearing set for Thursday The legislative debate over management of the public rights of way begins in earnest next week in the House Regulated Industries & Energy Committee. The commiittee will consider H.F. 322, a bill authored by Representative Loren Jennings (DFL -Rush City) that seeks the middle ground in the rights of way debate. The committee will meet Thursday, March 20 at 12.30 in Room 5 of the State Office Build- ing. The hearing overlaps with the League Legislative Conference. If you plan to attend the Conference and if your legislator is on the committee, we encourage you to attend the morning sessions and then go to the Committee meeting. If you haven't planned on attending the Legislative Conference. this hearing makes the trip to St. Paul worth your time. House Regulated Industries 3 F_nergy Committee Jennings (chair) 296-0518 Delmont (vice) 296-4226 Ozmurd 296-4306 I. Anderson 296-4936 B. Anderson 296.5063 Greiling 296.5387 Hausman 296.3824 Hilty 296-4308 Holsten 296-3018 Kahn 296-4257 Kelso 296-1072 Koppendrayer 296-6746 E.Olson 296-4265 M. Olson 296-4237 Osskop 296-9236 Pelowski 296-8637 Vickerman 296.9303 Wagenius 296.4200 Wolf 296-5185 Workman 296-5066 Jennings, the chair of the Regulated Industries Committee, first offered M.F. 322 in mid- January. After recent discussions with the League and with industry representatives, Jennings is expected to make major changes to the bill. We expect the bill to come under fire from many fronts. Lawmakers need to know that this issue tops cities' legislative agenda. Any bill must meet these three basic principles: 1) Cities must be responsible for the management and con- trol of the public rights of way. More than 100 years ago, Minnesota lawmakers realized cities were the best authority to manage the public rights of way. The evolution of technology hasn't changed that fact. Rights of way are public assets. If a problem occurs in the right of way, resi- dents call City Hail. If a project takes longer than it should, resi- dents call City Hall. if public safety is compromised, residents call City Hall. The idea that a state commission should manage a local public asset is ridiculous. 2) Cities must be able to re- cover all costs and expenses that result from intrusions into the rights of way. No engineer in the world would say that a Minnesota street that is cut and then patched is repaired to its "original condition." The fee for a one-time repair does not cover the cost of the reduced life of the entire street. 3) Cities should receive rea- sonable compensation for use of the rights of way. City governments have the care -taker responsibility for public assets. In a deregulated industry taxpayers have a right to expect fair return from private busi- nesses' use of public property. Anything less is a public subsidy to a private corporation. TIF reform bill contains potential land mines Representatives Dennis Ozment (IR -Rosemount) and Ann Rest (DFL -New Hope) introduced their much -antici- pated tax increment reform bill on Thursday, March 13. The bill makes several signifi- cant changes to TIF that will potentially affect all TIF districts. All cities with TIF districts need to consider how they could be affected. Represen- tative Ozment will give a first hand account of the bill at the Legislative Conference on March 20. We will analyze the bill in the next edition of Cities Bulletin. A complete bill summary is available from Andrea Atherton (281-1258) at the League. The bill may receive its first hearing in the tax committee next week. WWI 110 � �� Published Wednesday.March 19, 1997 I - Key legislators hatch plan to lower property taxes Star Tribune Online Patricia Lopez Baden / Star Tribune Metra A $1.5 billion proposal that would reduce property taxes an average of 12 percent statewide was released Tuesday by the Legislature's two tax chairpersons. Relate items Democrats question Sen. Doug Johnson, DFL -Tower, chairman of the Senate Committee on appointment Taxes, and Rep. Dee Long, DFL -Minneapolis, chairwoman of the House Full coverage of the Taxes Committee, say their proposal would offer "major, comprehensive Legislature reform," of a system that has been called the most complex in the nation. Legislative briefing Sparring over minimum "This plan meets the goals Minnesotans have for a system that is fairer, wage simpler and that reduces school property taxes," Johnson said. By spending $1.5 billion of the state's projected surplus over the next three years, the proposal would lower taxes substantially for business property, rental property and homeowners. The state's surplus is estimated to be $2.3 billion over two years. Apartment owners, who pay some of the highest property taxes in the country, would see the largest reduction. Using statistics that compare 1997 property taxes under the Johnson/Long bill with the current system, taxes on rental property would drop 23 percent. Homeowners would see an average 8 percent reduction, while commercial and industrial property would see an average 11 percent cut. Those figures would vary for individual properties. The proposal provides much of the tax relief by using state revenue, derived largely from sales and income taxes, to help pay for schools. That makes K-12 spending less reliant on property taxes and should result in a reduction for most homeowners, even though their actual tax rates would remain unchanged. Expanded circuit breaker Another boon for homeowners would expand the state circuit breaker law, which gives relief to homeowners whose real estate taxes are high in proportion to their incomes. The proposal would more than double the circuit breaker's benefits, adding $198 million to the current $180 million. Two-thirds of the new money would be directed to homeowners and a third to renters. The eligibility ceilings also would rise. Families could make up to $80,000 and still qualify, compared with $67,000 now. An earlier study by the Minnesota Taxpayers Association showed that large commercial and industrial properties pay the among the highest tax rates in the nation. Much of the drive for property tax overhaul has been fueled by fears that such high rates will hurt the ability of Minnesota businesses to compete and choke off future business growth, even though the business climate in this state has been robust. To restrain spending, the bill would limit the ability of cities and counties to raise levies without voter approval. Long said levy limits probably would be tied to population growth and the rate of inflation. Reform or buy -down Critics say the plan amounts to little more than old-fashioned tax relief that eats up most of the surplus without making fundamental reforms. "This is just a fancy buy -down," said Wayne Cox, of Minnesota Citizens for Tax Justice. "They do simplify the rates, but I've seen no evidence that this has any effect on holding down property taxes long term. They use up most of the surplus to give a break to business. Is that the best use of this money?" He and others also questioned whether the plan is sustainable, since it relies on an extra $1 billion every two years to maintain the reductions and prevent the shift to homeowners that normally would result from reduced business property taxes. Some of the other property tax proposals floating around the Capitol would reduce taxes overall by expanding the sales tax to clothing, or by creating a business activities tax. While those plans could result in a permanent reduction of property taxes without any shifting to homeowners, there is little chance that the Legislature will approve new taxes when a record surplus has been forecast. Senate Minority Leader Dean Johnson, R -Willmar, who is sponsoring Gov. Senate Majority Leader Roger Moe, DFL -Erskine, said most of the DFL StarTribuneOnla�e Senate Caucus supports it. "I fully expect something very close to this will Metro pass," he said. Copyright 1997 Star TribUrie. All rights reserved. Arne Carlson's property tax proposal, said the two plans are very similar. "Basically they took the governor's plan and upped the ante," he said, referring to the fact that Carlson's plan would spend less than $1 billion over three years, compared with $1.5 billion for the Johnson/Long proposal. In addition, he said, their plan has fewer spending restraints. Carlson's plan requires not only local levy limits, but also would require a "supermajority" in the House and Senate to raise the state general education levy, which makes up the bulk of the school portion of the property tax bill. Relabd items The Johnson/Long plan also forgoes the one-time income tax rebate that Carlson has proposed. Democrats question appointment "We believe the money is better spent on long-term property tax reform," Full coverage of the Long said. Legislature Legislative briefing While there are many plans for property tax changes this session, this plan, Sparring over minimum by virtue of its powerful House and Senate sponsors, is expected to take wage center stage. Senate Majority Leader Roger Moe, DFL -Erskine, said most of the DFL StarTribuneOnla�e Senate Caucus supports it. "I fully expect something very close to this will Metro pass," he said. Copyright 1997 Star TribUrie. All rights reserved. Property tax relief - a proposal Anew proposal b' the heads of the House and Senate tax committees would provide significant reductions to homeowners. Current Johnson/Long tax Percent law tax :_rerefproosal reduction $43,000 outstate home $500 $82 16.4% Household income: $25,000 $75,000 metro home $686 $138 Household income: $25,000 20.1% $112,000 metro home $1,483 $178 Household income: $40,000 12.01/6 y $149,000 metro home $2,461 $228 9.2% k Household income: $60,000 All numbers,are based on savings for 1 year for a family of four. Star Tribune graphic Star Tribune graphic