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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 01-23-1998JANUARY 23, 1998 1. COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE. NOTE: Ward I Councilmember Tim Bildsoe meets with residents and receives their comments in the Administration Library, beginning at 6:00 PM before each Regular Council meeting. 2. 3. 4. S. 6. 7. JANUARY 26, 6:00 PM FEBR UARY 4, 7: 00 PM FEBRUARY 18, 7:00 PM TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 7: 00 PM WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 4: 00 PM WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 7: 00 PM THURSDAY, JANUARY29, 7: 00 PM SATURDAY, JANUARY31, 10:00 AM THURSDAY, FEBRUARYS, 6:30 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING Topic: Annual Area Legislators Meeting Public Safety Training Room REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Council Chambers REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Council Chambers PLANNING COMMISSION, Council Chambers 1998 TRANSPORTATION LEGISLATIVE RECEPTION, St. Paul Radisson Hotel PACT, Hadley Lake Room GLEASON LAKE DRIVE AREA NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING, Wayzata Central Middle School, Room A407, Teachers Lounge IMPACT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PUBLIC MEETING SPONSORED BYLWV EDUCATION FUND, Plymouth City Hall HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION, Medicine Lake Room CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO January 23, 1998 Page 2 8. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2-7 PM FIRE AND ICE FESTIVAL, Parkers Lake Park 9. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY]], 4-6 PM ARMSTRONG HIGH SCHOOL GYM FACILITY DEDICATION, 10635 36' Avenue. 10. FEBRUARY 25- MANKATO 8AM - 4PM THE PHOSPHORUS FORUM sponsored by the FEBRUARY 26-- MARSHALL Minnesota River Basin Joint Powers Board 11. MEETING CALENDARS January and February calendars are attached. (M-8) FOR YOI�R INFORMATION ... �7L� 1. NEWSARTICLES, RELEASES, PUBLICATIONS, ETC. a) Star Tribune news articles about the recent St. Louis Park decision to regulate parking and storage of recreational vehicles. (14a) b) January 16 edition of the LMC Friday Fax. (I -1b) c) AMM FAX News newsletter for the week of January 12-16. (1-1c) d) Proposed City Council meeting flyer. Mayor Tierney requested that staff develop a brochure to replace the information sheets in the Council Chambers. (1-1e) e) Call for nominations to "Invest Northwest" award sponsored by the Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council. (I-1fi fi CICC newsletter, "We Love Our Kids."(I-1h) g) Drug awareness information from State Attorney General Humphrey's office. (I-1 i) 2. MEETING MINUTES a) Planning Commission January 6 meeting. (I -2a) 3. STAFF REPORTS a) The City has received an application for authorization to conduct bingo from Pilgrim Lane PTO for an event at the school (3725 Pilgrim Lane) on April 24, 1998. This application to the State Gambling Control Board will become effective unless the City submits an objection within 30 days. Please call Laurie at 509- 5080 by January 28 if you would like this item placed on the February 4 agenda for objection. (I -3a) CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO January 23, 1998 Page 3 4. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS POLICY— CORRESPONDENCE a) Letter from Stephanie Bartholow and Michelle Lindahl regarding the placement of schools near highways. The letter has been forwarded to Public Works Director Fred Moore for a response. (I --4a) A status report on the most recent correspondence is attached. (I--4) S. CORRESPONDENCE a) Letter to Public Safety Director Gerdes from Peter Docherty regarding assistance received from Officer Dave Thompson. (1--5a) b) Letter to Ashbeck Guth Inc., from City Clerk Laurie Ahrens regarding the liquor license held by Colony Liquor Store, 15705 35`h Avenue North. Staff learned of the death of the licensee, Bob Guth, earlier this week. Under the City's new liquor ordinance (adopted earlier this month), the personal representative of the licensee is allowed to continue operation of the business for 90 days in the event of the death of the licensee. This allows time for a new application to be submitted, if desired. (I --5b) . 6. COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA a) February 4 Regular Meeting (I --6a) rp) PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 1998 WHERE: Plymouth City Center 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS CONSENT AGENDA All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine by the Planning Commission and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Commissioner, citizen or petitioner so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the consent agenda and considered in normal sequence on the agenda. 1. CALL TO ORDER 7:00 P.M. 2. PUBLIC FORUM 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 5. *CONSENT AGENDA A. Ferrell North America. Site Plan Amendment for installation of a propane system at Olympic Steel located at 13100 15`' Avenue North. (97182) 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Kenneth R. Streeter Cos. Site Plan, Conditional Use Permit and Variances for two commercial buildings totaling 21,700 square feet for property located at the southeast corner of 34`' Avenue North and Plymouth Boulevard. (97183) 7. NEW BUSINESS A. Elim Care, Inc. Environmental Assessment Worksheet for Cornerstone Commons of Plymouth, a development consisting of 176 senior townhome units, 56 non -age restricted townhome units, 94 multi -family senior cooperative units, 50 multi -family assisted living units, and 205,000 square feet of office/light industrial space for property located at the southeast corner of Highway 55 and County Road 101. (97008) B. Hennepin County. Environmental Assessment Worksheet for a 350 -foot high public safety communication tower located south of County Road 6, east of Vicksburg Lane, and west of Shenandoah Lane. (97086) C. City of Plymouth. Review of draft Sign Regulation Ordinance. (97180) 8. ADJOURNMENT Please join the Minnesota Transportation Community at the 1998 TRANSPORTATION LEGISLATIVE Wednesday,RECEPTION January 28, 1998 4:OOpm - 7:30pm St. Paul Radisson Hotel — Great River Ballroom 11 East Kellogg Boulevard, St. Paul, MN 1998 Gubernational candidates will address Minnesota's transportation issues: The Honorable Joanne Benson, Lieutenant Governor; Mark Dayton (invited) Michael Freeman; Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III; Senator John Marty (invited); Ted Mondale and Senator Roy Terwilliger (invited) Panel discussion moderated by Jason Lewis KSTP AM 1500 Radio (Host of "The Jason Lewis Show" and co -host of KTCA's "Face To Face Show")* *Mr. Lewis' appearance made possiblewith the support of KSTP AM 1500 Radio and sponsored by Ames Construction Company; Burnsville, MN Call 612-227-19np; c,._ .Y___ . - rs,� �a,� �s,a � 1 � I The INNICt of 8emesde Yieleeee e® Cemmeeldes: 1 1 1 �7 J 1 Iwt MNIIIIIIIled Leeally J�rj 51, M 10-M5 = mem eft U, me oo& iii. 6 needs Panelists: Sit phanie Morn, Attorney at Law: Domestic violence in Bulgaria. Profes- sional photos by Rich Ryan: 1996 fact-finding mission to study domestic violence. Mission sponsored by the U of M Human Rights Center and MN Advocates for Human Rights. Loh ta Wok, Executive Director of the Hennepin County Domestic Abuse Center (DASA: Services provided by DASC and the status of domestic violence in our local communities. Joe Franz Plymouth Police Sergeant: History of the laws regarding domestic violence, how they evolved and how the laws are followed in Plymouth. Moderator, Bev Benson Assistant Hennepin County Attorney. The meeting is sponsored by the Wqzatplymouth Area League of Women Voters Education Fund and will be live broadcast by NW Community Television, King Cable Ch. 37. ti a� I a 1 Deb Thomas D. Bollin January superintendent i • J ._ 1 Dwight Johnson 3400 Plymouth Blvd. t Plymouth, NiN 55447 Dear Dwight, D!MICT 281 x V c W RODDIk5WLE 14, 1998 area schools On behalf of the entire school district, I would like to invite you to the Open House Dedication Ceremony on Wednesday, February 11 for the new gymnasium facility at Robbinsdale Armstrong High School, 10635 36th Avenue North in Plymouth. The event will be held from 4 to 6 p.m., with a short program at 5 p.m. We are proud to dedicate this new facility that benefits not only children, but the community as well. The 12,000 -square -foot gymnasium was built at Robbinsdale Armstrong High School in a cooperative effort between the City of Plymouth and Robbinsdale Area Schools. The city contributed $1.3 million toward the $1.49 million project. The district will pay about $190,000 for costs relating to health, safety and handicapped accessibility. Robbinsdale Area Schools will own and operate the gym and will be responsible for the annual operating costs of the facility. Both school and city will benefit from the new facility. The district now has additional space for physical education classes and athletic programs. The City of Plymouth will use the space on nights and weekends for recreational activities. This is another example of the wonderful cooperation that exists with Robbinsdale Area Schools and the cities it serves. I hope you will be able to join us and see for yourself this great benefit for our children and the people of Plymouth. Please call our community relations team, 504-8008, to indicate whether you will be able to attend. Sincerely, Thomas D. Bollin Superintendent Education Service Center • 4148 Winnetka Avenue North • New Hope MN 55427-1288 • (612) 504.8011 • Fax (612) 5048973 • tbottin®eta.k12.mn.us THE PHOSPHORUS FORUM SCHEDULE 8:00 am - 9:30 am EXHIBITS and REGISTRATION ® ® 9:00 am WELCOME Stan Christ, Mayor of Mankato Robert Byrnes, Mayor of Marshall 9:05 am INTRODUCTIONS Orville Meints, Chair of the MN River Basin Joint Powers Board 9:20 am CONCERNS and ISSUES Steve Heiskgry, MN Pollution Control Agency 10:05 am POLLUTION TRENDS and PATTERNS David Mullo, University of MN 10:30 am BREAK 11:00 am LANDSCAPE SOURCES and TRANSPORT TO SURFACE WATER Gyles Randall, University of MN 11:20 am REDUCTION STRATEGY FOR METROPOLITAN AREA Rebecca Flood, Metropolitan Council Noon LUNCH 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm BREAKOUT SESSIONS (Each session will be repeated) & 2:20 pm - 3:20 pm 2:00 pm BREAK Creative Strategies for Phosphorus Load Reduction: Point Source Phosphous Management: • Potential for manure exchange among farmers • Evaluating the options: Biological or Bill Crawford, Martin County Extension chemical nutrient removal? • Making headway with Septics in Cottonwood County John Brotby. Bonnie Holz Brown-Nicollet-Cottonwood Brown and Caldwell Clean Water Partnership Project • Phosphorus pollution prevention/pretreatment Mike Hanson, Cottonwood County Cindy McComas, MN technical Assistance Program • City of Fairfax urban stormwater initiative • Phosphorus reduction of Bongoords Creameries Larry Linsmeler, Fairfax • Jim Kiang, MPCA Bryon Oakley, McCombs -Fronk -Roos & Associates Agricultural Phosphorus Management: Policy Issues & Strategies for • Forms and availability of soil phosphorus Watersheds, Cities & Counties: Lowell Busman, University of Minnesota • Point & nonpoint source phosphorus • Livestock manure management to reduce potential P Losses management: A basin approach Mike Schmitt, University of Minnesota Norman Senjem, MN Pollution Control Agency • Agricultural & environmental • Point source permits: The case of Mankato �.. management of George Rosati, City of Mankato fertilizer phosphorus • Going all the way: Feedlot permitting in Blue Earth County George Rehm, University of Minnesota Chuck Peterson, Blue Earth County 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Steve Hansen, MN River Basin - Joint Powers Board REGISTRATION To register, complete this form and mail with registration fee of $25, by Tuesday, February 10, 1998 to: Phosphorus Forum Minnesota River Basin Joint Powers Board 125 Charles Avenue St. Paul, MN 55103-2108 FAX: 612-224-6540 Phone: 612-361-6590 Name: Address: Affiliation: If forum is cancelled, due to inclement weather, registration fee will be used toward future Joint Powers Board Confer- ences (no refunds). O Printed on Recycled Poper SECOND STREET A FIRST BANK 3 F c ALLEY y O � H O n o ? r 1 ad DEPOT < U MANKATO PLACE R' i RAM3 CIVCCEN ER RAh1P PARKING FREE PARKING U l RIVERFRONT DRIVE MANKAT0 AREA z" CONVENTION@ HY\'EE 111111 VISITORS BI; REAL Directions: From US Highway 169, use the Downtown Mankato exit, go across the Veteran's Memorial Bridge, to Second Street. Free parking is available in the Mankato Place Ramp. .Southwest State University Marshall, Minnesota ,:Thursday, February 26, 1998: J17innesota JClver J3asin goint J Owers %3oard presents ... T H E N W+ S tlLUG I) Swdml C<nmr K'en — PARKIVG L:I C '� V tb � p Q Q PARKING � � 00 PARKING STATE: STRF.E'r 3 HIGHWAY 23 NORTH r Directions: Southwest State University is located at the intersection of Hwy. 23 and Hwys. 19 and 68. The Phosphorous Forum will be held in Bldg. No. 13 - Student Center West. FORUM 8:00 am -4:00 pm February 25, 1998 Mankato, MN February 26, 1998 Marshall, MN �/ Phosphorus Forum MN River Basin Joint Powers Board Se Association of Minnesota Counties 125 Charles Avenue St. Paul, MN 55103-2108 Irlllr,Irlrrlrrl�lrrll„rlrtrllrlrrlrl,rllrrlrllrrrlllrrlrrlrl ih�ri.clh+: ,lrthlt';rin 31�I i'1.yPtrll.li:it li'L'irl m yrtm.l'i'I'l till '5'.5-147- J1440 lr--o 0�, Exploring point/nonpoint source solutions to water pollution in the Minnesota River Designed by Mathes Printing. Mankoto. MN BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE PAID St..41, MN 55103 P6imnN #594 I i I I I I I � I c� N � Iti N IM c U CG cu U z¢� E ozz V /�/� m i°2 'ce0�of ! $u leu c tri b U1411 j x 7 �I -ti t ' O 64, e uz� :"p 0- 2 4.a N^—N LAZE III =�W Op �i00 D �T� i GeV a b M � r •� N Q ��;� i �� •� N o a� COY O a� �OUA cl �o...tl l, � U � E :Z; a U 8' ozOU `g= �� O oZOU �J r: 03 5 nao ^�$ZµZ�aG o 1 g y I I I I� ti 00 N N v c � > o u, •� Op N � I I i �c�c ioZd Q oI 'z r'WI U 4 .L —per` ;aoC I i '� peZ 'Z 0111. D �•' O IU ' y UD Wap, Hj W'a'cc goo -a o"str goo a o r, o � I I cz 'C zz �O �2 12 2I I2U)UU � C7 Z ooA ouu o0 oU O � 03 on- a o CU 3 w o U z x. w o -E aw � E _ -Or c �—U07U 03 I t I 'c c :e N op St. Louis Park OKs RV parking restrictions - Microsoft Internet Explorer -J Free Menu with i Over $30 ,r in Sayings INK G1E1RO�� �EG10fl Pub„shed�^:ed•,es;iay January?.?, 198 �.. St. Louis Park OKs RV parking restrictions :j Mark Brunswick / Star Tribune A few pickup trucks, a smattering of sport utility vehicles and many cars filled the parking startrbune.com lot of the St. Louis Park City Hall Tuesday night, but the issue on the mind of most Metra everyone inside was recreational vehicles -- and the passions they stir. After an hour of debate, the City Council unanimously approved an ordinance that would severely restrict the ability of residents to park recreational and commercial vehicles in residential districts. The council will have a second reading of the rule and take a final vote Feb. 17. The ordinance has been the hot -button issue in St. Louis Park as neighbors in the inner -ring suburb of 43,000 struggle with the conflict between small lots and an increasing number of recreational amenities. For more than three hours, more than 150 St. Louis Park residents crowded into City Flail as the RV debate went beyond the issue of where a property owner can park vehicles. Allegations of government conspiracy, class politics and constitutional rights emerged. "You were elected to protect us from fringe elements," ordinance opponent Jeff Carlson told council members. "You don't have to pass an ordinance just because someone calls you and whines and snipes. We are proud to be working-class people. If we wanted to live in a gated community, we'd move there. We're Americans." Ordinance supporter Jim Hyde, a longtime St. Louis Park activist, said his support of the ordinance has resulted in threatening late-night telephone calls, his car being vandalized and his being branded a Nazi. "What we have here is a militant RV movement," he said. "The city has a real problem. The city is doomed. If it's not passed, I'm going to move." City Council members have been bombarded by both sides of the issue since a judge invalidated St. Louis Park's old ordinance in 1994. The latest ordinance would limit the size of an RV parked in a driveway to 8 feet in height, startribune.com 22 feet in length and 6,000 pounds. Owners with larger vehicles would be able to park in a rear yard with proper screening. Owners without access to their rear or side yard would be Metro required to store their vehicles elsewhere. The ordinance also limits the number of vehicles that can be parked outside a garage to three vehicles. ® Copyright 1998 Star Tribune All rights reserved. 1/21/98 9:04:36 AM To RV or not to RV: In St. Louis Park, that i... - Microsoft Internet Explorer ffIE1R0,EGIO(l To RV or not to RV In St. Louis Park, that is the question ^ . �4 Mark Brunswick / Star Tribune One disgruntled resident proposed that her city's name be changed to St. Louis Trailer Park. startribune.com The City Council is expected to vote tonight on an issue that a city official described as the Metro most divisive she's ever encountered -- an ordinance that would severely restrict the ability of St. Louis Park residents to park large motorized homes and other recreational vehicles Related item outside of their garages or in their yards. At a glance: RV parking The vote comes after months of intense debate in which a task force assigned to come up ordinances with a compromise was so dysfunctional that a mediator brought in to smooth things over threw up his hands in defeat. Like St. Louis Park, many communities are dealing with a side effect of the burgeoning $13 billion -a -year RV industry. A national RV owners' advocacy group estimates it is involved in 20 to 30 similar disputes over parking in other U.S. cities. Most of those cities are in California -- where space is at a premium and adult recreational toys abound -- but some are in Arizona and Florida, where Northerners migrate in their RVs to enjoy warmer winter climates. In the Phoenix area, for instance, RV owners lobbied to defeat a proposed Maricopa County ordinance that would have banned RV parking except in back yards. RV owners in St. Louis Park see the debate as an attack on their property rights and even as an assault on the modern American family. "Does this city not want to grow with families and the current items (such as toys, bikes, motor homes, boats, and trailers) that keep them active as a family in the 1990s and into the next century?" asked RV owner Don Balkenende in a letter to the city. Opponents cite concerns over eyesore yards, property values and the excesses of our materialistic times. "This perpetual, irresponsible, and pathological amassing of vehicles and letting them just sit and rot serves no other purpose but to contribute to the decline in neighborhood aesthetics and values," Salem Avenue resident Paul Moldenhauer wrote to the council. Asignofthetimes More than 13,500 of Minnesota's 37,600 recreational vehicles are registered in the core seven counties of the metro area, and a growing number of communities are seeking to limit their impact, either through parking ordinances or zoning restrictions. Bloomington, often cited as the city with some of the most restrictive ordinances, limits the number of vehicles that can be parked on a residential lot to the number of licensed drivers at the address plus one. It also limits the size and number of recreational vehicles allowed, and where they must be parked. Hopkins allows one recreational vehicle, boat, fish house, camper or mobile home less than 18 feet in length as long as it is not stored in the front yard. Anticipating the aging of its population and the number of older residents who migrate south during the winter, Lakeville is developing a plan to deal with more RVs. Even Landfall, a Ramsey County community made up entirely of mobile homes, has restrictions on RV parking. It prohibits RVs from being parked on the street from November to May and does not allow any RV parking off-street. "We're a mobile home park. We don't have back yards and we don't have front yards. It would be a mess," explained Helen Hallis, Landfall's city clerk. 1/20/98 8:35:12 AM To RV or not to RV: In St. Louis Park, that i... - Microsoft Internet Explorer In St. Louis Park. a relatively dense inner -ring Minneapolis suburb with a population of 43,000, much of the housing was built in the 1940s and'50s, when families generally owned only one car and fewer recreational amenities. More than 5,600 of the 11,550 single-family homes have single -car garages or no garages at all. About half the single-family homes have lots 60 feet wide or less. The proposed ordinance would regulate parking and outdoor storage of passenger, commercial and recreation vehicles in residential districts. It would: Limit to three the number of vehicles of any kind that can be parked outside a garage; limit to two the number of non -passenger vehicles (RVs are considered non -passenger vehicles) that can be parked outside the garage. Limit the size of all vehicles to 8 feet high, 22 feet long and 6,000 pounds empty. People with access to their back yard may park only one large vehicle there. Require that non -passenger vehicles be parked in the side or rear yard, except when there is no access to park there and where there is either no garage or a one -stall garage. In those cases, residents may park one recreational vehicle on the driveway if it meets height, length and weight limits. The law also includes provisions for screening vehicles, as with fences, landscaping or tarpaulins. Anearlierattempt St. Louis Park's current debate has its roots in a 1994 judge's decision that invalidated the city's old nuisance ordinance that prohibited parking large vehicles in residential areas. In July 1996,the planning commission recommended approval of a new ordinance that would regulate vehicle parking in residential areas. That's when residents' conflicting concerns arose. Frustrated residents with longstanding disputes over the condition of yards adjacent to their homes spoke out at community meetings and in letters to City Council members. The most common complaints centered on yards and driveways full of vehicles, which were deemed "trashy" and a threat to property values. One man wrote that, though he himself owned several trailers, snowmobiles and a boat, he paid to store them in the off-season and never would consider storing them in front of his house. Movingthingsaround Approval of the ordinance would mean major lifestyle changes for St. Louis Park resident Steve Schultz. A car hobbyist, Schultz's garage is taken up mostly with the racing cars he drives on weekends. In his driveway he parks a a minivan, a car, a truck and a trailer he uses to haul his racing cars to competitions. He cannot park in his back yard and, under the new ordinance, his trailer would be too long to park in his driveway. The idea of renting storage space elsewhere strikes him as unfair and an issue of class politics. "This is regulating what you can do with your own property," said Schultz, who was a member of the RV task force. "You work hard, save a little money, you want to do something with your family. You buy an RV. Now St. Louis Park says you can't have one. It's attacking people who are out there every day, working for a living." Don'tcomea-knockin' With their red gingham shirts, bolo ties, cowboy hats and shirt -pocket stickers proclaiming a friendly, "Hi," the waving members of the Good Sam Club pictured in the group's brochure look like a senior square-dancing ensemble. But the club, with more than 900,000 members across the country. is a strong advocate for the RV lifestyle. Good Sam provides ammo to members fighting parking restrictions in various cities. RV owners are a surprisingly pugnacious group. "You are dealing with a lot of retirees, many of them have a lot of time on their hands and they are very involved in the issue," said Susan Bray, executive director of the RV owners 1/20/98 8:35:14 AM To RV or not to RV: In St. Louis Park. that i... - Microsoft Internet Explorer Adopting an approach from another powerful lobbying group (the National Rifle Association), Bray, of the Good Sam Club, said many of the problems begin as personality disputes between people living next to each other. The recreational vehicle often is just an extension of the dispute, she said. "RVs don't cause the problems. Neighbors do." 2 Copynytt. 1998 Star 1/20/98 8:35:15 AM they are very involved in the issue," said Susan Bray, executive director of the RV owners organization, which is based in Ventura, Calif. The group also has a history of taking the debate to court and winning. flelated item In 1994, nine RV owners in the Cleveland, Ohio, suburb of Euclid were cited for violating a At a glance: RV parking city ordinance that prohibited parking of any type of truck, trailer, auto -trailer or motor ordinances coach on public or private property in residential areas. Found guilty in municipal court, the RVers appealed and won in the higher court, which ruled that the restrictions were unconstitutional because they were purely for aesthetic reasons. In 1977, the U.S. Supreme vW 5tartribune.com Court refused to hear Euclid's appeal and the Ohio Court of Appeals ruling still stands. Metro St. Louis Park officials say they believe their ordinance is covered under state statutes granting municipalities zoning authority to ensure a safe, pleasant and economical environment, and because a city is permitted to impose regulations that promote public health, safety and general welfare. Opponents of the ordinance promise a legal challenge if it is approved. In the meantime, RV advocates suggest a more personal form of mediation, one in which neighbors work out their differences on their own. In Grass Valley, Calif., for instance, a potentially ugly situation was resolved when RVers agreed to cover their rigs during winter months with brown tarps rather than blue ones. Schultz, the St. Louis Park car hobbyist, says he tries to keep neighbors at bay by fixing their lawn mowers. Adopting an approach from another powerful lobbying group (the National Rifle Association), Bray, of the Good Sam Club, said many of the problems begin as personality disputes between people living next to each other. The recreational vehicle often is just an extension of the dispute, she said. "RVs don't cause the problems. Neighbors do." 2 Copynytt. 1998 Star 1/20/98 8:35:15 AM At a glance: RV parking ordinances - Microsoft Internet Explorer f�1E1�O.�,I�EGIOG n b shed TuEs;'.;iy. January 20. 11993 �;. At a glance: RV parking ordinances �. O, r r ` RV parkingordinances St. LouisParkwill consideran ordinancetonightthatwill restricicommerciabnd t startribune.com recreationalvehicleparkingin residentialareas of the city.Here is a samplingof Metro ordinancesin neigh boring:ities: Bloomingtorprohibits all vehicles taller than 7.5 feet and longer than 22 feet. Also prohibits all boom trucks, cargo trucks, dump trucks, hearses, semitrailer tractors, step -vans, tank trucks and tow trucks. It also limits the size of trailers and the number, size. location and screening of recreation vehicles. It limits total vehicles of all types that can be parked on a residential lot to the number of licensed drivers at the property plus one. GoldenValley prohibits all commercial vehicles unless parked in a garage. Hopkinsprohibits any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight over 9,000 pounds. The city allows one recreational vehicle, boat, fish house, camper or mobile home less than 18 feet in length on a residential property as long as it is not in the front yard. Minneapolisprohibits all commercial vehicles in single-family housing districts. It limits parking outside on single-family lots to two vehicles and limits areas where vehicles can be parked. Edinaallows back yard and side -yard storage of one recreational vehicle and one boat or snowmobile or all -terrain vehicle on a parcel, provided it is not within 5 feet of a side lot line or 25 feet of a rear lot line. The city allows for temporary parking (up to 7 days) of these vehicles in driveways. It does not limit the number of vehicles that can be parked at a residence. Minnetonkdimits outside parking on single-family lots to four vehicles and limits areas where vehicles can be parked. Crystaldoes not limit numbers but limits areas where vehicles can be parked. + startrbune.cam Richfieldlimits to three the number of vehicles that can be parked in a front driveway. Metro Source:St. Louis Park City Planning Office. ® Copyright 1998 Star Tribune. Aii rights rese,ved 1/20/98 8:35:31 AM JAN 16 '98 05:11PM LEAGUE OF MN CITIES LMC 1,.Wra ofirtrwla6o CItN/ Cifi01 �prr,o(ing ar►vl/anW P.1 FRIDAYFAx Vol. 3, No. 1 A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Cities January 16, 1998 Cambridge: Round Two First, we had a state auditor's re- port issued in October, nearly a year after the city of Cambridge identified its financial problems and implemented a recovery plan. Now, we have a flurry of legislative activ- ity to correct a complicated prob- lem, after the fact, and address a local situation with statewide legis- lation. In the wake of the petition audit on Cambridge, State Auditor Judy Dutcher has raised questions about how the city could issue more than $33 million in debt when the net debt limit would apparently allow only $3 million in obligations - In a letter sent to House and Senate leadership, Dutcher outlined the Cambridge problem and how the city apparently disregarded leg- islative intent by using special as- sessment -supported bonds that are not covered by the limit. According to Dutcher, in 1995 the city issued bonds for a total of $995,000 in im- provements, of which only $241,000 was to be spent on im- provements. To further complicate matters, only $20,000 of the im- provements were assessed. She essentially contends that cities can avoid the net debt limit law by issu- ing debt in the guise of improve- ments. To remedy the situation, Dutcher asks the House and Sen- ate leadership to consider clarifying the net debt limit law by only allow- ing the portion of a bond issue sup- ported by special assessments to be exempted from the net debt limit. Cities should be prepared for calls from local newspapers or leg- islators if this proposal goes further Governor proposes further class rate reductions As part of the Governor's supplemental budget, the Governor is proposing reductions in the rates of all major classes of property except the first tier of homesteads (value less than $75,000). These proposed reductions would in some cases exceed the target class rates established in the 1997 tax bill. The greatest reductions would be for commercial, industrial, and utility classes, which would see the rate go from the current 4.0 percent of market value to 3.65 percent for taxes payable in 1999, 3.5 percent for taxes pay- able in 2000, and would establish a new target rate for the class of 3.0 per- cent. The Governor's proposal has great implications for the long roposed Class shift- ing of tax burden from business to residential property he rates also have implications for the viability of both current and future tax in- crement financing districts. Will these reductions become law? Some DFL legislators have ex- pressed support for continued class rate reductions, while many Republican legislators have shown a preference for focusing on income tax reductions instead. The proposal will certainly be a major topic of debate in the House and Senate tax committees. t Cities also should consider the im- plications on their net debt limit if portions of non -special -assessment bonds are included under the net debt limit. Although all cities may be affected, cities that are most at risk may be those that are fully de- veloped and are unable to fully as- sess for improvements. Unfortunately, Dutcher's initia- tives may be just the tip of the ice- berg. We have heard rumors that other legislators may be considering similar "reforms" being touted as "ways to avoid another Cambridge - like financial disaster." Other initia- tives may be procedural in nature, such as requiring that financial re- ports be shared with the city council at a public hearing. League staff will be watching where this latest and other possible proposals may lead during the com- ing session, and how they affect cit- ies and city management. t start of the session means weekly LMC FridayFax Every city in Minnesota knows what is just around the corner --the 1998 legislative session. The start of session also means a Friday - Fax sent weekly from the League to your city hall. The FridayFax in- cludes late -breaking news from the Capitol, a preview of the com- ing week's issues, and important action alerts needing your atten- tion. For a more in-depth discus- sion of legislative issues impact- ing local government, members should refer to the Cities Bulletin— also published weekly during the session. [ nary 20, 1998 3:51 PM From: AMM ram • -�- - - AMM FAX Association of Metropolitan NEWS Municipalities January 12-16, 1998 tion Being Housin Legisla D rafte d g has conducted a hearing and proposed legislation is likely. The governor, as part of the supplemental budget, has requested a $10 million appro- priation for each of the next three fiscal years. The governor's legislation will be similar to the legislative effort. HOUSING VITALITY INITIATIVE Since 1995, the Family Housing Fund and the Greater Minnesota Housing Fund have raised about $40 million for affordable hous- ing. The two groups plan to raise $10 million from the private sector through a matching state housing tax credit. The $10 million tax credit is part of legislation (HF 2344) authored by Rep. Clark that will request a one time $30 million appropria- tion to match the private funds. The appropriation would be to the MHFA. The Senate authors have not yet been determined. Several legislative proposals and governor's initiatives regarding housing issues are being developed. Among the proposals being drafted into bill form are prepayment of subsi- dized housing development loans (state funding) and the housing and economic develop- ment vitality initiative. PREPAYMENT Several cities including Bloomington, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Minnetonka and Hopkins have subsidized housing devel- opments within their borders that could prepay existing obligations. If the obligation is prepaid, the development's owner is not required to offer low rent units. As a result, the low rent units could be offered at market rate rents which could be at least $150 higher per month than the subsidized rents. The potential loss of the existing AMMfaxD'ews is faw j1e#dir*M aaAMM dy,wN e7 aol admilatraten me inlormationif1170sestodttharelel withmov oR roanol an®stalp aiff m tel ofioA *east ofinja nt11w, dly issa . © lopywtite iWAMY 14 Uni redly Aver ae Wat k Oaal, IVSJ701-294 fd400flt 27S4000 fax 072ff fffliff APlNS.117 subsidized housing units has prompted Reps. Long and Clark, in consultation with several organizations including the AMM, to draft legislation that proposes to: ♦ Expand the authority of the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) to offer loans based on the amount of equity in the development. Under current law, MHFA's loan author- ity is limited to developments having a first mortgage with MHFA. ♦ Modify section 462A.222, which governs the allocation of federal low income housing tax credits, and section 474A.061, which is the tax exempt bond allocation law, by assigning a priority to developments that will preserve existing federally subsidized housing. ♦ Appropriate funding for the equity loan programs. The Senate housing subcommittee Legislators involved in this issue have requested infor- mation regarding the location and number of housing units that could be converted from subsidized to market rate housing. If you have a development in your city, you should consider providing your legislators with information about the devel- opment. Such information as number of units, the average rent paid, and a profile of the residents (family, elderly) would be helpful information. Tours of the development that could lead to meetings with residents are other ways to orient a legislator to the issue. 3 N 00 00 E M ? M ? E;; Ci E Y o ° v V N Ln O� �' m O v to 0 m a Q N � m O v >� > ^� �° c L?E J > ^ u' r E 3 in E E tn QLLnn Lon QULan � 0 -- O w o O E Ln E M M \ o N y E <v A Ln ° C N N ° y M 0 v.50 -0 o � n �N Q,M Q x >OO x O X co V, Ln b E E e`o 7 v Q, E 3E= -Ln 3t=tn 3�. LnL� y■■1 CA CD f" tl� c '> E m Lf') �n L � OO O j Z O E O C E Q O0o CL V wCO) E 3 Ur`na `� 3 pi O .c U H, •+ '� c v c cu 1:: � E a u 3 ".u w > v •2 7 Gl 3 y - v rs a 7 E 0 YO `° to E c� o c -,0- co 3 v E >'o� D ri �� � 7 � 6 -QE E'er 3 m ?` r o 7° U y° V 3 o C y E E o ) m fin r L .. u.V V —O ..-0 C v _ .r`L... 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O -O � v s � .n v Q) � Q) N s y an C Q) c v rts a) -0 v 72 R to -C t C O U Q) N O Fes- a 'N Cq c U is C ra E O rz Ln -SE U L Q o y L 0-0 C O 3 E U 0c O U ■ H 4J e m i a, c a, Sw E u o .� i O a) c O C �= -0 U Q) c F- U U C � Ln - E N Q c c U v ca N N C: C: U O O c c O U C � n s L � Q O ■ x y Y �, v— y U ra � C @ R N U 0 cu a te .. >1 �C3-0-~d � ra a) L c > O R M O y O ,, O (5 Q OO >, aJ R EEEC—CL O O u C a. O CA E --T a N0O O -M E c - U 00 �.3 E v U 0 c� C) U u E..• M -0 C U D O O U O _U oa)?0_E�= E E (u � c c o o > e■i s 0= O ra ti I -UF -U-0 E� r" -0 - MC U Q: a) C u -0 -0 c L = c)ra E o c U L a u y > ria N F-�—�U Q) M Q r>a Z t ti u c O > C c ra ra < O 0 - a) U L > M O O c O 0 O U a) rn - t s a) N �. Q) C) o N %• Ln = 0 �J E C +-r- S 'V C, c > 3 0Q-3 r- n v — y U ti v E E a) O O U .. J C) C ra C :O = Q m 3 0 m F- I I O O U t � v ra N E C: `. O -O � v s � .n v Q) � Q) N s y an C Q) c v rts a) -0 v 72 R to -C t C O U Q) N O Fes- a 'N Cq c U is C ra E O rz Ln -SE U L Q o y L 0-0 C O 3 E U 0c O U ■ H 4J e m i a, c a, Sw E u o .� i O a) c O C �= -0 U Q) c F- U U C � Ln - E N Q c c U v ca N N C: C: U O O c c O U C � n s L � Q O ■ -el Call for.I -I Nox '91mations".. R ":A r. -----� s@* • 'j d ' 3 r Do you know an "unsung hero" in Northwest Hennepin County? Is there some person, organization, or business that you would like to thank for their contributions to our community? Nominate them for the ... SIXTH ANNUAL "INVEST NORTHWEST" AWARD We are looking for nominees whose efforts have significantly improved the lives of people living in Northwest Hennepin County. Nominees can be individuals, organizations, or businesses. They can be from any sector of the community.' Up to five nominees will be chosen to receive an Invest Northwest award. One of these awards will be given to a business that has demonstrated through its policies and practices a commitment to assist its employees in successfully balancing both their family and work obligations. Nominees for the "INVEST NORTHWEST" award will be evaluated based on the following characteristics: ❑ Has demonstrated innovation and creativity in order to improve the lives of others ❑ Has shown sustained activity in working to improve people's lives over a period of time (not necessarily in just one role or capacity) ❑ Has inspired others to get involved in addressing human needs Has tangible evidence of progress resulting from his/her/their activity This is your chance to thank those people and organizations who have helped to meet the needs of people in northwest Hennepin County. Nominations are due by 4:00 p.m. April 3, 1998 at Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council. For more information or to receive a c-qpy of the nomination form please call 493-2802. Thank You! ' Northwest Hennepin Services Council staff, Advisory Commissioners, and Executive Board members and their families are not eligible to receive the award. We L ve Our Kids! You are cordially invited to take part in our third annual "We LOVE Our KIDS!" month sponsored by the Communities In Collaboration Council. The CICC is a true grassroots initiative dedicated to building healthy communities and healthy youth. Much of our work is based on research done by the SEARCH Institute which has developed a list of forty develop- mental assets that all children need to grow and thrive. Research shows us that the more assets in a child's life, the less chance that child will be involved in high risk behaviors such as abusin`T alcohol, tobacco or drugs. Man\, families today don't have the support systems of close relatives and Often our daily schedules are too hectic and too full! We must all take time to care about the children in our lives. Dr. Peter Benson, of SEARCH stated, "Much of the work of asset building occurs for FREE. It is the Building blocks for life Eight types of assets that all kids need: • Support • Empowerment • Boundaries & expectations • Constructive use of tirne • Commitment to learning • Positive values • Social competencies • Positive identity stuff people do in their e� c:ryday lives." Actions like learninL, a child's name, asking them what they think about a topic, taking, time: to read a book together. sharing a laugh or lending an ear are all little thinks that can make a big difference. Special events will talo place throughout the month of February specifically designed to celebrate our families and children. Inside this poster you will find many fun family events. Take time to share yourself With your child, your neighbor's child, someone in your faith community or Your neighborhood school. Help children learn about their community by taking them to our local library, the historical society and the YMCA, take a walk, visit our -ori=eous parks, read a book or just chat. Time is the most Precious and important thing that you can give the children in your I i fe. Many parenting classes are also offered. Take special note of the second annual "Parentin.g Those Wonderful and Craze Kids" educa- tion forum on .lanUal-V 24th. Work- shops will cover topics on children from birth through the teen years and some for their harried parents! We wish you a happy. growing, asset filled month! FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL BARBARA CARLSON, 745-5217. Saturday, January 24, 1998 -8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Central Middle School • 305 Vicksburg Lane A Free Community Forum featuring Dr. William Doherty, author of The Intentional Family How to Build Family Ties In Our Modern World Choose from 36 exciting seminars • Visit the Marketplace Sponsored in collaboration with The Foundation HealthSystem Minnesota District 284 Liaison Committee & Parent Involvement Grant Lutheran Brotherhood Branch 8350 Communities In Collaboration Council Wayzata Community Education Services i January 3 Young Scientist Roundtable —A monthly program designed for 24 "Parenting Those Wonderful & students in grades K-12 and their Crazy Kids!" — 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., parents to hear exciting ideas and Central Middle School. (745-5217) developments in scientific fields. February's featured presentations: 26 Active Parenting of 2-12 Year Olds "Dinosaur Designs & Strategies" - - A six week parenting series Dr. Kent Kirkby focused on developing courage, self- "Premature Babies: Tender Loving esteem, cooperation and responsibil- Care" - Dr. Cathy Bendel ity in children. Facilitated by a child 6:45 p.m., Plymouth Creek psychologist. Group uses video, Elementary. (745-5208) group discussion and family home- work. 7-9 p.m., St. Bart's Catholic 4 "In the Driver's Seat" — Max Church. (473-2984) Haynes, local children's author. reads from his new children's book 30 "Oceans: Under the Sea" — 6th and reinvents a few familiar fairy annual Theme Week Family Fun tales to amuse kids of all ages. Night 7-9 p.m., Kimberly Lane Books available for purchase. School (745-5600) 7 p.m.. Plymouth Community Libra 31 "We Love Our Kids!" — _`� (551-6000) i Regional Kick-off i ... j Sr. High Youth Group Meeting — x:, 11 ti b l ceeraon. a.m. - 5 � ,l ' Every Wednesday evening. 6:30 p.m., Southdale Center y ,I super. 7-8:30 program, St. Ed:✓ar Garden Court. Edina. the Confessor.473 2262 Featuring activities for f•=s:'; ( ) families with young Ski Trip, for Sr. High — Bus to ` Ali' a6 children, interactive tables highlight- Big.^✓ab%. tvin.- Giant's Ridge. 5135 ing developmental assets, fashion includes bus. food, lodging. to: show featuring local teens, show- tickets. lesson for beginners. St. case of local teen talents, face Edi." ard. the Confessor. (473-2262 painting, service projects, and art•° "Fire and Ice" Plymouth Communit displays. (745-5217) 6' Celebration — Tons of FREE Fun Ri Fami!y Winter Events ending with Februa glorious fires^ arks display! 2-6:45 r p.m., Parker's Lake. rEarly Childhood Family Education it Kids Hook Sale — Kids only (ages classes begin. (745-5290) 12) allowed from 10 a.m. - noon. 5 r Wayzata Athletic Boosters book siS1. All ages admitted noon - Spaghetti Dinner — Everyone 2 p.m.; paperbacks 50 cents each welcome' 5-8 p.m., Wayzata High and 'hardcovers 75 cents each. TeE School. volunteers will be available to help small children in selecting books. Positive Parenting — A four session Sponsored by the Friends of the (Feb. 2, 9, 16 and 23), video -based Plymouth Community Library. curriculum, "It Takes More Than (551-6000) Love," which builds on the 40 Developmental Assets identified by "Parents, Kids and Money" — An SEARCH Institute. $20 fee/family interactive workshop for includes materials and childcare. children, ages 7 through 12 and their parents. In a fun 5:45-6:45 p.m., Christ Memorial and informative workshop. Lutheran Church. (544-3632) this event will explore how children World Wide Web Tutoring — Spend, Save and Share their monE Individual assistance for those Free. 10-11 a.m. Christ Memorial _ learning how to use the Web. Also Lutheran Church (545-9323 Laura; offered Feb. 9, 16 and 23. 6:30 Heart Week at p.m., Plymouth Community Library. 7- Wayzata High School. (551-6000) 13 Daily activities to raise donations 2.6 Read -Around -The Clock: Birchview for a charitable cause. Elementary Lobby — An easy chair will be set up in the lobby with a goal 9 Single Parents Together — 2nd an 4th Monday evenings. 7-8:30 a.m. of having someone — parents, teachers and students —reading in St. Edward, the Confessor. it during all school hours. (473 2262) 10 "Wasted: A Memoir of Anorexia & Bulimia" - 23 year old Minneapolis writer Marya Hornbacher shares her vivid and emotionally wrenching story of surviving an eating disorder. Books available for purchase. 7-8 p.m., Plymouth Community Library. (551-6000) "From Colic to College" - Linda Fiterman (Minnesota Mother of the Year), Plymouth Creek Elementary PTA. (551-0840) Dry Nights for Good Mornings: There Is New Hope for Bed Wetters —A urologist discusses bedwetting, concerns and treatment options available for this common problem. 7-8 p.m., Central Middle School. (745-5314) 1 1 Family Storytime — Stories and a movie for children of all ages. Everyone, teddy bears and PJs welcome. 7-8 p.m., Plymouth Community Library. (551-6000) 14 Valentine's Day — Tell children that you love them and care ' about them! Early Childhood Family Education Valentine Party. 10-11:30 a.m., Family Learning Center. (745-5290) 16 FOUNDER'S DAY - No school 17 Armchair Travel: Travel Via the Net — Ruthanne Vos shows how to use the Internet for family vacation plans and bargains. 7 p.m., Plymouth Community Library. (551-6000) Area Family Fun Events • Children's Theatre Company — "Boundless Grace" & "Worn Out Dancing Shoes." 874-0400 for ticket information. • Child's Play Theatre Company — "Velveteen Rabbit." 979-1111 for ticket information. • The Science Museum — 221-9488 for program information. • Minnesota Children's Museum — 225-6000 for program information. • Minnetonka Dance Theater and School Youth Ballet Company — "Dance in the Community" offers free demonstrations to businesses, retirement homes, etc. Observe rehearsals. 937-1387. 21 World Wide Web: For Kids — 27 elementary - high school students will learn to navigate the Web via Netscape. (Parents welcome too!) 1 p.m., Plymouth Community Library. (551-6000) Summer Activities Expo — Visit with representatives from overnight camps to sports opportunities to local activities. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Eisenhower Community Center. (988-4080) Teen Advisory Group — Junior high and high school students are invited to join the library's Teen Advisory Group. Bring $2 if you'd like pizza. 11:30 a.m., Plymouth Community Library. (551-6000) 622 ChoirFest — Hear hundreds of combined voices in this musical fundraiser for Interfaith Outreach. 4:30 p.m., Wayzata Community Church. (473-2436) �llllgEt" - 18 Family Storytime — Stories and a 2!5 Family Storytime — Stories and a movie for children of all ages. movie for children of all ages. Everyone, teddy bears and PJs Everyone, teddy bears and PJs welcome. 7-8 p.m., Plymouth welcome. 7-8 p.m., Plymouth Community Library. (551-6000) Community Library. (551-6000) Nannies Class — 7:15 p.m., Family Learning Center. (745-5290) 19 Snowflakes and Snow Catchers — It takes a million of them to create a drift but individually they are truly unique. They come in all shapes & sizes and tell us how warm, cold, dry or humid the clouds are. Bring a cereal box to make a snow catcher. Children ages 5 and up are wel- come. No registration required. 2-3 p.m., Plymouth Community Library. (551-6000) Corwin Kronenberg — Nationally recognized speaker on managing behavior on a daily basis. $3/person and $5/household. 7 p.m., Hopkins Art Center. (988-4080) 26 Teens Alone Anniversary Celebration — Join us at the celebration of this organization's meeting the needs of teens and their families for the past five years. Open House 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the Marsh. (745-5217) Communication for Parents of Middle School Children. 7-9 p.m., Central Middle School. (745-5290) Mentor Match — Meeting to inform businesses of needs and opportuni- ties for mentoring in our community. 7-8:30 a.m., Central Middle School. (Info. & registration 745-5217) Family Concert — Peter Alsop, nationally renowned celebrity, will mix humor, music and fun with a powerful message for children and their parents. Peter's albums have won several awards for the music and the message. S2/family. 7 p.m., Eisenhower Community Center. (988-4080 for registration) 28 Mother/Daughter Book Discussion Groups — Join other mothers and daughters for an informational meeting about how to start and run a book discussion group. Girls in 4th grade and above and their mothers are welcome to network and find others to start your own group. We are looking for 6th -8th grade `pairs' (girl and any adult woman, i.e., aunt, grandmother, friend etc.) to start a group. 1 p.m., Plymouth Community Library. (551-6000) Music & Melody Makers — Field trip to the Minnesota Youth Symphony. 8:45-11:15 a.m., Family Learning Center. (745-5290) "Beach Party" and t Silent Auction — Fun 4' / family event. 11 a.m. 3 p.m., Plymouth Creek Elementary PTA. (551-0840) March My Child Is Gifted! What Do I Do Now? — 7-9 p.m., Central Middle School. (745-5314) 12 Understanding Your Gifted Child — 7-9 p.m., Central Middle School. (745-5314) Building blocks for healthy devel c pmen"'i Search Institute of Minneapolis has identified the following building blocks of healthy development that help young people grow up healthy, caring, and responsible. Support 1. Family support - Family life provides high levels of love and support. 2. Positive family communication - Young person and her or his parent(s) communicate positively, and young person is willing to seek parent(s) advice and counsel. 3. Other adult relationships - Young person receives support from three or more non -parent adults. 4. Caring neighborhood - Young person experiences caring neighbors. 5. Caring school climate - School provides a caring. encouraging environment. 6. Parent involvement in schooling - Parent(s) are actively involved in helping young person succeed in school. Empowerment 7. Community values youth - Young person perceives that adults in the community value youth. S. Youth as resources - Young people are given useful roles in the community. 9. Service to others - Young person serves in the community one hour or more per week. 10. Safety - Young person feels safe at home. school, and in the neighborhood. un�aries & Expectations 11. Family boundaries - Family has clear rules and consequences, and monitors the young person's whereabouts. 12. School boundaries - School provides clear rules and consequences. 13. Neighborhood boundaries - Neighbors take responsibility for monitoring young people's behaviors. 14. Adult role models - Parent(s) and other adults model positive, responsible behavior. 15. Positive peer influence - Young person's best friends model responsible behavior. 16. High expectations - Both parent(s) and teachers encourage the young person to do well. Constructive Use of 'rime 17. Creative activities - Young person spends three or more hours per week in lessons or practice in music, theater, or other arts. 18. Youth programs - Young person spends three or more hours per week in sports, clubs, or organizations at school and/or in community organizations. If you would like to join the community team and help build assets for our youth, there are an unlimited number of ways that we need you. ✓ To volunteer in the schools, call Charlene Barghini, 745-5208. ✓ To learn more about the Communities In Collaboration Council, call Barbara Carlson, 745-5217. 19. Religious community - Young person spends one or more hours per week in activities in a religious institution. 20. Time at home - Young person is out with friends "with nothing special to do," two or fewer nights per week. Commitment to learning 21. Achievement motivation - Young person is motivated to do well in school. 22. School engagement - Young person is actively engaged in learning. 23. Homework - Young person reports doing at least one hour of homework every school day. 24. Bonding to school - Young person cares about her or his school. 25. Reading for pleasure - Young person reads for pleasure three or more hours per week. Positive Values 26. Caring - Young person places high value on helping other people. 27. Equality and social justice - Young person places high value on promoting equality and reducing hunger and poverty. 28. Integrity - Young person acts on convictions and stands up for her or his beliefs. 29. Honesty - Young person "tells the truth even when it is not easy." 30. Responsibility- Young person accepts and takes personal responsibility. 31. Restraint - Young person believes it is important not to be sexually active or use alcohol or other drugs. Social Competencies 32. Planning and decision-making - Young person knows how to plan ahead and make choices. 33. Interpersonal competence - Young person has empathy, sensitivity, and friendship skills. 34. Cultural competence - Young person has knowledge of and comfort with people of different cultural/racial/ethnic backgrounds. 35. Resistance skills - Young person can resist negative peer pressure and dangerous situations. 36. Peaceful conflict resolution - Young person seeks to resolve conflict non-violently. Positive Identity 37. Personal power - Young person feels he or she has control over "things that happen to me." 38. Self-esteem - Young person reports having a high self-esteem. 39. Sense of purpose - Young person reports that "my life has a purpose." 40. Positive view of personal future - Young person is optimistic about her or his personal future. ✓ To involve your children in the numerous programs at the Ridgedale YMCA, call 544-7708. Programs include mentoring, youth leadership, teen recreation, youth sports, family nights, parent/child pt"o ,rams, day camp, programs for people with disabilities, International programs, and more. ✓ To become a mentor, call Jim Schaffer at the Ridgcdale YMCA, 544-7708. HUBERT H. HUMPHREY III ATTORNEY GENERAL STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL January 16, 1998 To Whom It May Concern: 102 STATE CAPITOL ST. PAUL. MN 55155-1002 TELEPHONE. (612) 296-6196 The Minnesota legislature has revised the DRUG-FREE & WEAPON -FREE ZONE law by adding treatment centers to the areas where increased penalties apply. The law now covers the areas surrounding school property, park property, public housing projects and treatment center facilities. Anyone caught possessing or selling not only narcotics, but amphetamines or marijuana as well, may be subject to increased penalties for committing the crime in one of these zones. The law is also tough on anyone caught possessing or using a dangerous weapon in these areas. Enclosed you will find an updated, plain language version of Minn. Stat. sec. 152.01, 152.021-152.024 (1997) and Minn. Stat. sec. 609.66 (1996), related to drug-free school, park, public housing and treatment center zones. To report suspected criminal activity, call your local police department. I have provided this information to the following associations: elementary and secondary school principals; school administrators; school boards; school counselors; sheriffs; chiefs of police; Minnesota Peace and Police Officers; local governments; as well as major newspapers. It is my hope that along with the above associations, you will include this information in future newsletters or post it in a manner that will ensure easy access by students or tenants. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. If you would like a limited number of additional copies of the brochure, please fax your written request to: Ann Johnson at 612-297-4193. In addition, you may copy and distribute the brochure as needed. Best regards, HUBERT H. HUMPHREY ID Attorney General Enclosure Fa tiimileJ612) 297-4193 • TTY: (612) 297-7206 • Toll Free Lines: (800) 657-3787 (Voice). (R00) 366-4812 (TT) An Equal Opportunity Emplmer Who Values Diversity ac. n 4? Primed on 5UST recycled paper (155, post consumer content) n x / s.� / l .I Ir _1 tJi .F Nrii-��I �_ �1f.> Yil 71Y Nl+l .+i N�:�ll f/ v/'fif+•.A �.�.li {� '�1TF,i i.,�,,(rl I I ��i7 11 Z 9•-tl�fllr.�'ll t �](' O O U a: as O ` N C N O•E to c O 1 O N O aw ,U i i p f6 as N m •H 0 3 Q rA wo c _ -a N n O (6 v (0 :s F.. 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GA s 'O W b. d 'O w > 0 Q. > O 0 f6 L� O N O O i (o 3 0 Y C O 0 4) :� �-' U " i f6 0 C• U Q 0) c6 to � m � C- c6 0 c6 O � > cn co , C - 00 ` O -O O N 0) Q GA f6 N 0 L O O- — c6 H d E 0) YO 4) cn 0) i 4) L � C `� � � >. i � V7 uj �-+ C Q t .� Q C' � L C• 12 N c a) O C O N O O N. O O N O L N> N 0) OS N YO � Q +�+ O 4 O _U 6 N GOw C c a) O E Q Q fn 6 cn _07U M 0 M M.0 - 0 O Q U 0 0 M m 0-0 Q in wm 0 CITY OF PLYMOUTH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 6, 1998 MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Michael Stulberg, Commissioners Kim Koehnen, Jeff Thompson, Bob Stein, Roger Berkowitz and John Stoebner MEMBERS ABSENT: Commissioner Allen Ribbe STAFF PRESENT: Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt, Planning Supervisor Barb Senness, Planners Kendra Lindahl and John Rask, and Clerical Supervisor Denise Hutt 1. CALL TO ORDER: 2. PUBLIC FORUM: 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Chairman Stulberg noted that Homestead Village, Inc. should be listed as 7A, as it should be a public meeting, not a public hearing. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Commissioner Koehnen requested that the words "..and the wetlands" be deleted from paragraph one of Page #271. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Koehnen to approve the December 16, 1997 Planning Commission Minutes as amended. Vote. 4 Ayes. (Commissioners Stein and Berkowitz abstained). 5. CONSENT AGENDA: A. SUBURBAN HENNEPIN REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT (97175) MOTION by Commissioner Koehnen, seconded by Commissioner Thompson recommending approval of a request by Suburban Hennepin Regional Park District for a Site Plan Amendment for construction of a 192 square foot storage shed in French Regional Park located at 12615 Rockford Road. Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. Planning Commission Minutes January 6, 1998 Page #2 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS: A. MATTHEW MCLEOD AND LESLIE MCLEOD JACKSON (97174) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by Matthew McLeod and Leslie McLeod Jackson for a Minor Variance for a 19.5 -foot front yard setback where 25 feet is required in order to construct a three season porch onto an existing deck at 5267 Ximines Lane North. Planner Lindahl gave an overview of the December 26, 1997 staff report. Chairman Stulberg asked what objections staff received pertaining to the proposal. Planner Lindahl replied that the main concerns raised were the front yard variance and the porch would not be aesthetically pleasing to the neighbors. Chairman Stulberg introduced Leslie Jackson, the petitioner. Ms. Jackson stated that she is a single parent and does not have the option of moving; therefore, needs the additional room. Ms. Jackson commented that she meets all the ordinance standards, and concurred with the conditions listed in the staff report. Commissioner Stoebner asked if the 25 -foot setback was enacted after the new Zoning Ordinance was adopted. Director Hurlburt replied affirmatively, explaining when the townhome development was built it was in a Planned Unit Development, which was changed to RMF -1 with the new Zoning Ordinance. Chairman Stulberg opened the public hearing. Chairman Stulberg introduced Sharon Brynstad of 5275 Ximines Lane. Ms. Brynstad stated she is not against the proposal, but would rather see the roof pitched in the center which would be more aesthetically appealing. Ms. Brynstad asked how high the wall would be. Chairman Stulberg closed the public hearing. Ms. Jackson replied that the wall would be extended four feet above the existing wall. Commissioner Koehnen commented that if the roof was pitched in the center, it would slope and cause water runoff onto the neighboring decks. Director Hurlburt stated that the proposed roof line would be consistent with the townhome architecture. MOTION by Stoebner, seconded by Koehnen to approve a Variance for Matthew McLeod and Leslie McLeod Jackson for property located at 5267 Ximines Lane North. Commissioner Stoebner commented that he was concerned about the hardship aspect, Planning Commission Minutes -- i _ January 6, 1998 Page #3 but since the ordinance changed the setback, the proposal should be approved. Commissioner Thompson concurred. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. B. CITY OF PLYMOUTH (97176) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by the City of Plymouth to amend the text of Chapter 21 of the Plymouth City Code, the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance to permit radio receivers and transmitters in connection with essential services, and wireless antennas and commercial facilities in City rights-of-way. Planner Rask gave an overview of the December 29, 1997 staff report. Chairman Stulberg asked if the amendment is approved, can different providers go on the same structure. Planner Rask replied that NSP requires each one to be reviewed individually, and if the tower is in City right-of-way, the City would have to review each request on a case-by-case basis as some, may require an encroachment agreement. Commissioner Thompson asked if there is a way to make separate motions. Planner Rask replied that the amendments is one action as proposed. Chairman Stulberg opened the public hearing. Chairman Stulberg introduced John Theis, of NSP. Mr. Theis thanked staff for the time spent on the amendments. Mr. Theis explained that NSP in working in conjunction with CellNet Data Systems, Inc. to deploy technology to remotely read electric and natural gas meters via radio signal. There will be 24,722 meters to be changed out in Plymouth. Mr. Theis showed what the new meter and Micro Cell Controller unit will look like. Mr. Theis stated that 214 MicroCell Controllers and two CellMaster units will be installed in Plymouth. Mr. Theis explained that postcards will be sent out to residents three weeks in advance to change out their meters. They will also be notifying the Public Safety Department when they anticipate working in the area. Chairman Stulberg asked what happened to the technology from Johnson Controls that allowed the meters do be read while driving by. Mr. Theis replied that there has been too much snow the last two years which caused problems trying to read the meters, and they also received too many complaints from customers. Chairman Stulberg closed the public hearing. Commissioner Thompson stated he would be abstaining from voting. Planning Commission Minutes January 6, 1998 Page #4 MOTION by Commissioner Koehnen, seconded by Commissioner Berkowitz recommending approval of an Ordinance amending the Plymouth City Code, by amending Chapter 21 (Definitions, Essential Services, and Public Property/Rights-of- Way) and Findings of Fact for amending Section 21005, 21160, and 21180 of the Plymouth City Code (Definitions, Essential Services, and Public Property/Rights-of- Way). Roll Call Vote. 5 Ayes. (Commissioner Thompson abstained). 7. NEW BUSINESS: A. HOMESTEAD VILLAGE, INC. (97051) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by Homestead Village, Inc. for a Sketch Plan for a 122 -unit extended stay hotel located east of Nathan Lane North, south of State Highway 55, and west of Highway 169 North. Planner Rask gave an overview of the December 31, 1997 staff report. Commissioner Koehnen wanted to know if the proposal indicates any changes that would need to be made to Bassett Creek; questioned what the possible historical features are; and, if staff needs to consider a manager on-site changing anything. Planner Rask stated there would be some impact to the floodplain associated with Bassett Creek. He explained that more details would be required at the site plan stage. Planner Rask said that the applicant would address the possible historical features of the "Little Peninsula". The presence of an on-site manager is not relevant at the sketch plan review stage, but would be during consideration of the site plan and conditional use permit. Chairman Stulberg asked what staff's perspective is of the off-site mitigation that is proposed. Planner Rask explained that the sketch plan would impact 7,740 square feet (10 percent) of the wetlands. The applicant proposes to mitigate wetland impacts on the area known as the "Little Peninsula" on Medicine Lake. The applicant would mitigate for wetland impacts and buffering impacts for approximately 35,000 square feet including wetland restoration, creating a wetland and a buffer area adjacent to that. He said that their plan seems to meet the requirements under the Wetland Conservation Act. Director Hurlburt noted that if the applicant receives approval, they intend to donate the land to the city, but whether the city accepts it is an issue outside of the realm of the Planning Commission. The issue is not part of the sketch plan, and will be dealt with by the City Council and the Park Board. Commissioner Stein questioned that the issue of mitigation would need to be considered in reviewing the sketch plan, and if not, when would the Commission consider it. Planning Commission Minutes January 6, 1998 Page #5 Director Hurlburt stated that the main issue for the Commission at this stage is whether the proposed development is appropriate for the site. Chairman Stulberg commented that the Commission does need to consider the mitigation, as mitigation is required in order for the project to be approved for the site. Chairman Stulberg introduced Paul Crabtree, representing the petitioner. Mr. Crabtree introduced Kris Osburn and Barton Barrow (architect, landscaping), Rick Smith (wetland consultant), John Payton, and Chris Moehrl (Westwood Professional Services - civil engineers), and Jim Touve (land owner). Mr. Crabtree stated that they have spent a year working with the city on the project. There is a demand for extended stay hotels for the business travelers. Homestead Village has 70 hotels currently opened and 50 more under construction. They have a project in Eagan opening this week and one in Eden Prairie later this month. Their hotel rooms include a kitchenette and work station for laptop computers. Their hotels do not include a restaurant, pool, or work- out rooms, as their clients prefer to patronize other facilities in the community. Mr. Crabtree gave a history of the project indicating a text amendment to the Zoning Ordinance in March, 1997 and they applied for a Site Plan in April, 1997. Mr. Crabtree indicated they have received favorable responses from the DNR, Army Corps. of Engineers and the neighbors pertaining to mitigation on the Little Peninsula. Mr. Crabtree said that there are no other sites in this particular sub -market that are available. Mr. Crabtree commented that they think they have a good mitigation plan, and they have developed a new proto-type by putting parking underneath the building, thus reducing the footprint. They are proposing vacation of the right-of-way to take ownership and then replat to combine the three lots and leave the Muellers with a cross access easement and reciprocal parking. Mr. Crabtree stated that there is a possible archeological site on a small portion of the peninsula, so they would not be doing any mitigation at that point. Mr. Crabtree said the benefits of the project would include a net increase of $200,000 in property taxes; a hotel in an area where it is needed; and, an increase of wetlands to the area by 33,000 square feet. Commissioner Koehnen asked what is in the archeology site. Mr. Crabtree replied that a couple of coat buttons were found. Commissioner Stein asked why the applicant is requesting a variance for building height and what the height of the building would be. Ms. Obsburn replied the average height of the building is 47 feet. Mr. Crabtree stated they needed to go higher in height because of the parking under the building. Commissioner Koehnen asked if the parking would be enclosed. Ms. Osburn replied negatively, as it needs to be open mainly for ventilation reasons. Planning Commission Minutes January 6, 1998 Page #6 Commissioner Stein asked if the grade of the parking could be lowered, thus, lowering the building height. Mr. Payton commented that by lowering the grade you get into floodplain and drainage issues. Commissioner Stein asked if water issues could be handled with sump pumps. Mr. Payton replied negatively. Chairman Stulberg asked the applicant what they would do if one of the conditions of the approval was to lower the parking grade. Mr. Payton replied that they are trying to keep the elevation high enough to avoid any floodplain issues. Mr. Payton said if the parking was any lower, it would be very difficult to maintain that area. The Commission questioned how the building height is measured for the project as it relates to the ordinance. Ms. Osburn commented that the top of the tower would not exceed 60 feet. Commissioner Berkowitz asked if they didn't need to consider the top of the tower for building height, as in the church steeple on a previously approved project. Director Hurlburt replied that steeples may be different. Planner Rask read the section in the ordinance pertaining to calculating building heights. Commissioner Thompson asked if commercial office is an overused land use category. Director Hurlburt responded that in terms of vacant land left, commercial office is the most abundant category left, but that is city-wide, and the applicant only looked at land in their particular sub -market area. Mr. Payton explained the floodplain issues and how it relates to the site. Mr. Touve commented that he doesn't remember seeing any water standing on the property this past spring or summer. He added that he has never seen water go over Bassett Creek since he's owned the property (1963). Commissioner Stein questioned if the NURP pond could be made larger to allow lowering the grade of the parking. Mr. Payton replied that they have a volume need for water runoff from the parking and roof. He said the pond could become deeper, but then they may get into a situation of water backing up into the pipes. Chairman Stulberg summarized that the main concerns seem to be the parking lot design and if it will flood. He said the Commission would like to see the feasibility of lowering the parking so the building could be lowered to avoid the need for a building height variance. Mr. Crabtree stated that the insurance company requires the grade to be a couple feet higher than the floodplain. Chairman Stulberg introduced Bruce Larson of 263 '/a Peninsula Road. Mr. Larson stated that he represents the Association of Medicine Lake Citizens. Mr. Larson said that the Little Peninsula is a very valuable piece of property which is favorable to the residents of that area. The benefit would be to the City of Plymouth to receive that property as a donation as part of the proposed project. Mr. Larson stated that the residents are in favor of the plan and support the proposal. He said that Medicine Lake Planning Commission Minutes January 6, 1998 Page #7 is the jewel of Plymouth. Mr. Larson stated that if the Little Peninsula is not donated to the City, it could then be developed as townhome units. Mr. Larson encourage the Commission to approve the proposal. Chairman Stulberg introduced John Felcyn of 1304 West Medicine Lake #322. Mr. Felcyn stated that he is the President of the Sunrise Bay Homeowners Association. Mr. Felcyn concurred with the comments made by Mr. Larson. Chairman Stulberg introduced Erika Urban of 1541 West Medicine Lake. Ms. Urban stated that she has lived by Medicine Lake for 33 years. She said an uneasy feeling remains that the Little Peninsula could be developed as apartments or townhomes. She stated she is in favor of the proposal so that the peninsula could be donated to the City. Ms. Urban asked if the plan involves removing the foundations from old homes that are no longer there. Chairman Stulberg introduced Terrie Christian of 9910 South Shore Drive. Ms. Christian presented an aerial photograph of the Medicine Lake area. She commented that she is in favor of the development to preserve the water quality of Medicine Lake. She stated that the Board of AMLAC supports the proposal also. Ms. Christian stated that one AMLAC member also participated in the open space committee, and said that the Little Peninsula was designated as the number one spot to leave as open space. Ms. Christian stated that the proposal would increase the wetlands, and Medicine Lake deserves to be considered for mitigation and improvement for wetland quality. Mr. Crabtree stated that they have not looked at removing the foundations yet, but they would be cleaned up unless it would interfere with archeological issues. Chairman Stulberg stated that the issue regarding the City accepting the land will be dealt with by the City Council, and the only thing the Planning Commission can discuss it how the proposal sits on a particular site and variances that are requested. Commissioner Koehnen asked if Homestead Village owns the Little Peninsula. Mr. Crabtree replied that they currently have it under contract so if the project gets approved, they can move forward to purchase the property. Commissioner Stein commented that the general area would be good, and the hotel is a good idea, but he wasn't sure about the particular site. He stated that he thought the benefits would outweigh any of the negatives. Commissioner Thompson wanted to know if staff concurs with the hardship and if the mitigation complies. Planner Rask stated that staff believes the proposal complies with the Wetland Conservation Act, and that there is a hardship, but staff has not reached a conclusion as to what extent variances should be granted. Planning Commission Minutes January 6, 1998 Page #8 Director Hurlburt stated the sketch plan will go forward to the City Council to review and comment on, and they would decide if they want to set a hearing to vacate the road easement. Director Hurlburt stated that there are issues and concerns that would need to be addressed if the City decides to take on the Little Peninsula, but that is a council issue. Commissioner Berkowitz asked if it is feasible for the proposal to proceed without the caveat of the Little Peninsula. Chairman Stulberg commented that the parcel could be mitigated off site somewhere else in Plymouth. Director Hurlburt stated that it would be hard to find an area in Plymouth for the migration. Planning Supervisor Senness commented that it is preferred that the migration take place in the same watershed. Commissioner Koehnen asked if staff thought there is potentially more room for improvement of the proposal for the site. Planner Rask replied that the applicant has come a long way in working through some issues, and they can't have a smaller building to make the project work financially. Planner Rask commented that there could be other uses as allowed in the Zoning Ordinance that may work on the site, but it would be difficult to tell what impact they may have on the site. Chairman Stulberg commented that as a sketch plan, the project passes. He said that the variances could be addressed with more detail, and traffic is a concern that should be looked at. He stated that he would like to see the mitigation on the Little Peninsula, whether it is publicly or privately owned. Commissioner Thompson stated that he thinks it is a valuable project, and fits the City's need. It is an attractive building and meets the variance standards. Commissioner Thompson stated the zoning of commercial office would be difficult to make economically viable, and this proposal would clean up the junk on the site. The migration efforts are valuable to the City, and comply with the Wetland Conservation Ordinance. Commissioner Thompson stated that the developer has gone forward with good faith and thanked him for the effort of sticking with the project. Commissioner Koehnen stated her concurrence with Commissioner Thompson and Chairman Stulberg, and that the project should move forward. Commissioner Stein commented that staff should further investigate the possibility of the peninsula being turned over to the City. Director Hurlburt stated that if the City Council sets a public hearing to vacate the right-of-way, then the issue would be referred to the park board and then that input would be part of the discussion when the item comes back to the Planning Commission. Planning Commission Minutes January 6, 1998 Page #9 Commissioner Stoebner stated his concurrence with Commissioner Thompson and Chairman Stulberg. Commissioner Stein stated the project would fit in nicely with the Waterford Towers, and he could support the variances if the Little Peninsula is turned over to the City. Commissioner Berkowitz concurred. 8. OTHER BUSINESS: Commissioner Berkowitz asked if any commissioner would be willing to serve on the Park and Recreation Advisory Committee for 1998. Commissioner Koehnen stated she would be willing to serve. Chairman Stulberg stated he couldn't attend the January 27`' Planning Commission meeting. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Stoebner to adjourn. Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m. LG220 Revo6/96 Minnesota Lawful Gambling Application for Authorization for an Exemption from Lawful Gambling License For Board Use Only Fee Paid Check # Initals Date Recd Organization Information Org 'z�a on Name )) --- -- - --Previous.iawfal gambling exemption number Street � � I City State Zip Code Coun LZIrLL �J e4 11 Name of Chief Executive OfficeiQof organization (CEO) First Name Last Name Daytime Phone number of CEO N��-rq-A k ame of OrgarUzation Treasurer First Name Last Name Daytime Phone Number of Treasurer y L\XD 6Yi �I St 1 n C, k (C /1 ) s VY S e of Nonprofit Organization E Check the box below which best describes Check the box that indicates the type of proof attached to this application your organization by your organization: Q Q IRS letter indicating income tax exempt status Fraternal Q Veterans Q Certificate of good standing from the Minnesota Secretary of State's office Q Religious�`Pproof charter showing you're an affiliate of a parent nonprofit organization Other nonprofit previously submitted and on file with the Gambling Control Board Gambling Premises Information N e, of Establishment where gambling activity will be conducted Vt � l iy\ Street U City State Zip Code County �,\C,(_,�� Date(s) of activity (fo foes, indicate the date oft yawing) 41(�>L+�9� Check Check th box or boxes w h indicate the type of gambling activity your organization will be conducting *Paddlewheels *Pull *Tipboards (�tacffles Q Q -tabs Q *Equipment for these activities must be obtained from a licensed distributor Be sure the Local Unit of Government and the CEO of your organization sign For Board Use Only the reverse side of this application. Date & Initials of Specialist Z Local Unit of Government Jurisdiction Is this gambling premises located within city limits?O---Yes Q No V E If Yes, write the name of the 017 City City Name JAN 1 5 IQQP If No, write the name of the County and the Township: -- - CiIV OF PLYMOUTH County Name Township Name 0F1"Ft, P.�F?,_pcPARTMFtyT Check the appropriate status of the Township: Q organized unorganized Q unincorporated Local 'Unit Of Government.Acknowledgment 1. The city must sign this application if the gambling 3. DO NOT submit this application to the Gambling Control premises is within city limits. Board if it is denied by the local unit of government. 2. The county and township must sign this applica- 4. NOTE: A Township may not deny an application. tion if the gambling premises is not within city limits. Upon submission of this application to the Gambling Control Board, the exemption will be issued not more than 30 days (60 days for cities of the 1st class) from the date the local unit of government signed the application, provided the application is complete and all necessary information has been received, unless the local unit of government passes a resolution to specifically prohibit the activity. A copy of that resolution must be received by the Gambling Control Board within 30 days of the date filled in below. Cities of the first class have 60 days in which to disallow the activity. City or County Acknowledgment of Receipt of Application Signature of person receiving application Township Acknowledgment of Awareness of Application Signature of person acknowledging application Date Received:,y, C �' Date Signed: Title of/person receiving application Title of person acknowledging application �/ G 1-►Nl1H 1771 Oath of Chief Executive Officer I have read this application and all information is true, accurate and complete. Date: % - / Submit the application at least 45 days prior to your scheduled date of activity. Be sure to attach the $25 application fee and a copy of your proof of nonprofit status. Mail the complete application and attachments to: Gambling Control Board 1711 W. County Rd B Suite 300S Roseville, MN 55113 This publication will be made available in alternative format (i.e. large print, braille) upon request. Questions on this -form should -be directed to. the Licensing Section of the.Gambling Control Board at (612)639-4000. Hearing impaired individuals using a TDD may call the Minnesota Relay Service at 1-800-627-3529 in the Greater Minnesota Area or 297-5353 in the Metro Area. The information requested on this form will be used by the Gambling Control Board (GCB) to determine your compliance with Minnesota Statues and rules governing lawful gambling activities. All of the information that you supply on this form will become public information when received by the GCB. Stephanie Bartholow & Michelle Lindahl c/o Wayzata West Middle School 149 Barry Avenue South - }_._- Wayzata, Minnesota 5539p': 1 ` 3400 Plymouth Boulevard _ Plymouth, Minnesota 55447 January 16, 1998 Dear Mayor Tierney, - = We are doing a project that involves the school system. And what happens to concern us is the idea that the highways are too close to the schools. We think that this interferes with thit safety of school children. We believe that the highways should be farther away. But for the schools that are already close to highways there should be crosswalks, walking signs, STOP signs and YIELD signs. But for the future schools you should have the highways at a fair enough distance for the safety of school children. We hope that this will cross your mind later on through the rest of your career. We hope that we have influenced you to keep in mind the safety of school children. Sincerely, Stephanie .K. Bartholow Michelle M. Lindahl CITIZEN REQUEST TRACKING ON M -0X.. Refe kednuDate ateDat pate completed 69. Moore; Blank Janice Phelan Mailboxes at 53` and Yorktown 9-12-97 9-12-97 9-26-97 9-26-97 70. Hurlburt Roger Schelper Building/development costs in Plymouth 9-15-97 9-15-97 9-29-97 9-16-97 71. Moore Timothy Clark Street maintenance concerns 9-15-97 9-15-97 9-29-97 10-17-97 72. Blank Becky Tighe Northeast park site 9-20-97 9-22-97 10-6-97 10-9-97 73. Blank Benjamin Tighe Northeast park site 9-20-97 9-22-97 10-6-97 10-9-97 74. Hurlburt, Hahn Sue Stavenau Home water/mold problems 9-23-97 9-26-97 10-17-97 10-17-97 75. Hurlburt Terence Moriarty, Pres., Sugar Hills Townhomes Assn. Potential Building Code violation 10-06-97 10-06-97 10-20-97 10-08-97 76. Moore Jim & Mary Tegan Ferndale Road Improvements Project No. 6007 10-07-97 10-07-97 10-21-97 10-27-97 77. Moore Susan Schlachtenhaufen County Rd. 6 Sanitary Extension, Project No. 7018 11-03-97 11-03-97 11-17-97 78. Hurlburt Linda Bergstrom Lot survey; drainage plan 11-06-97 11-07-97 11-21-97 11-17-97 79. Blank Sheryl McRoberts Life Time Fitness 11-12-97 11-13-97 12-1-97 11-24-97 80. Gerdes Mary Schiffler Request for Police support 11-14-97 11-14-97 11-21-97 11-21-97 81. Hurlburt Shanna Smith Request for copy of the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing 11-17-97 11-18-97 12-1-97 11-24-97 82. Hahn Jerry Chmielewski Property tax statement 11-19-97 11-26-97 12-5-97 12-2-97 83. Moore Marsha Videen Parkers Lake Feasibility Study 12-11-97 12-12-97 12-29-97 1-6-98 84. Gerdes Thomas Wiskow Expired license plate citation 12-15-97 12-15-97 12-29-97 12-19-97 85. Moore David Mellen Mooney Lake water quality 12-17-97 12-17-97 12-31-97 1-6-98 86. Gerdes Jerry Blackwell Racial harassment concerns 12-30-97 12-30-97 1-13-98 87. Blank Paul Vincent Tree barriers 12-31-97 12-31-97 1-14-98 12-31-97 88. Moore George Wilson Traffic safety at Cheshire Lane & Carlson Parkway 12-31-97 12-31-97 1-14-98 1-6-98 \\pl\_nMldisk l\adminimmion dcpann—Acill—ico—pondcnco\concVondcnce imcking\971racking log.doc Page 4 CITIZEN REQUEST TRACKING &Wniinisrrarion dcpartmcnt\ciri--spondcncc\comspondencc tracking\98 tracking log.doc Page 1 Referredr Not Su>b''ect �.: DateWE .YDate Date Date . .. m`r t45ames ., �.r .,_ . FReceied�Relexred Due . Completed .. 1. Hurlburt Marlin Langner Home construction quality issues 1-06-98 1-06-98 1-20-98 1-15-98 2. Blank Chuck & Diane Tryon Tree removal 1-07-98 1-07-98 1-21-98 .1-15-98 3. Blank Richard Hannah Life Time Fitness memberships 1-13-98 1-13-98 1-27-98 1-1698 4. Moore Stephanie Bartholow Highway placement near schools 1-21-98 1-21-98 2-4-98 Michelle Lindahl 5. Gerdes Bruce Goldstein Parking citation 1-21-98 1-21-98 2-4-98 &Wniinisrrarion dcpartmcnt\ciri--spondcncc\comspondencc tracking\98 tracking log.doc Page 1 January 14, 1998 Chief Craig Gerdes Plymouth Police Department 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Chief Gerdes: - I want to bring to your attention the helpful attitude of one of your officers. Last Monday, evening, my wife and I were driving home from our offices in Harbor Place Conference Center when our car inexplicably quit. The battery was completely dead; we couldn't even put on the emergency lights. And, of course, this took place at the busy intersection of Fernbrook Lane and Highway 55. We were first in line to turn east and so impeded traffic. We called a towing service on our cellular 'phone and were advised that it would be "about 30-40 minutes". We were in the car for 20 minutes when Officer Dave Thompson drove by and noticed our plight. He turned around and invited us to sit in his car until the tow truck arrived -- which it did after we had sat in the comfort of the heated police car for another 40 minutes! Officer Thompson also gave us some mental comfort by positioning his car behind ours and activating his roof lights thus preventing any vehicle from accidentally colliding with ours. I know that my wife and I couldn't have withstood the freezing cold much beyond the 20 minutes we endured, yet I know that leaving a car unattended is a violation. I thanked Officer Thompson profusely for his attentiveness and his reply was "Well, we're also here to serve. His pleasant attitude, cheerful demeanor and willingness to help two stranded citizens were very much appreciated. Sincerely, JL4 Peter B. Docherty 1155 iiollybrook Drive Wayzata, MN 55391 January 23, 1998 CITY OF PUMOUTR Ashbeck-Guth Inc. d/b/a Colony Liquor Store 15705 35' Avenue North Plymouth, MN 55447 To Whom It May Concern: I was sorry to hear that Bob Guth passed away earlier this week, and thought it may help to provide an update on the liquor license status for Colony Liquor. The City Council recently renewed the liquor license for Colony Liquor Store. The license will be mailed to the store as soon as it is approved by the State Liquor Control. The City Code provides that "In the event of the death of a person holding a license, the personal representative of that person shall be allowed to continue to operate the business within the terms of the license for a period not to exceed 90 days after the death of the licensee." Therefore, the store may continue business under the existing license for a period of 90 days -- through April 23, 1998. At that time, sales will have to cease unless a new license has been approved for the location. An application packet is enclosed. The process for a new license takes from 6 to 8 weeks. If the decision is made to close the store immediately, rather than continue in operation for 90 days, please notify me by February 9 at 509-5080. You would be entitled to a full refund of the $200 license fee, but this request must be made immediately. Please let us know your intentions with regard to the liquor license and whether we can assist you with the application materials. Sincerely, 17< Laurie Ahrens City Clerk cc: Craig Gerdes, Public Safety Director Margo Neva, Licensing PLYMOUTH ABeau tifulTlacrTloLive 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 O.-1. ,. www.d.plymouth.mn.us DRAFT j 01/23/98 1:05 PM CITY OF PLYMOUTH AGENDA REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 4,1998 1. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 7:00 P.M. 2. ROLL CALL 3. PLYMOUTH FORUM - Individuals may address the Council about any item not contained on the regular agenda. A maximum of 15 minutes is allotted for the Forum. If the full 15 minutes are not needed for the Forum, the City Council will continue with the agenda. The City Council will take no official action on items discussed at the Forum, with the exception of referral to staff or Commission for future report. 4. PRESENTATIONS AND PUBLIC INFORMATION ANNOUNCEMENTS A. Human Rights Award B. Fire and Ice Festival C. Touch Tone Registration for Recreation Classes 5. APPROVE AGENDA - Councilmembers may add items to the agenda including items contained in the Council Information Memorandum for discussion purposes or staff direction only. The Council will not normally take official action on items added to the agenda. * Items require 5 affirmative votes of the City Council for approval. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 4, 1998 Page 2 6. CONSENT AGENDA - These items are considered to be routine and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Councilmember or citizen so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the Consent Agenda and placed elsewhere on the agenda. A. Approve proposed City Council Minutes B. Approve Disbursements C. Establish February 11, 1998 as Special Council Meeting and establish topics: Goals and Objectives, Activity Center, Funds Analysis, Water Quality Plan D. Approve 1998 Public Tree and Stump Removal Contract E. Amend Policy regarding Park Dedication Fees F. Proposed Homestead Village Development: 1) Review and Comment on Sketch Plan for a 122 -unit extended stay Hotel located east of Nathan Lane North, south of Highway 55, and west of Highway 169 2) Set public hearing to consider Vacation of Right -of -Way Easement. Homestead Village Inc. (9705 1) *G. Approve Rezoning from FRD (Future Restricted Development) to RMF -1 (Multiple Family 1), Preliminary Plat and Site Plan to allow construction of a 48 -unit Townhome Development on the 9.7 acre site located southeast of Fernbrook Lane and 43`d Avenue. Eagle Crest Northwest, Inc. (97089) H. Approve Final Plat and Development Contract for Plymouth Woods Office Center located southeast of Fernbrook Lane and 34`h Avenue. United Properties (97160) 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Vacation of Drainage and Utility Easements within Lot 2, Block 1, Carlson Center 14`h Addition * Items require 5 affirmative votes of the City Council for approval. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 4, 1998 Page 3 B. Public Improvement Hearing for Cavanaugh Area Street Reconstruction Phase I, Project 8001 8. GENERAL BUSINESS 9. REPORTS AND STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS A. Report from Business Relations Subcommittee 10. ADJOURNMENT * Items require 5 affirmative votes of the City Council for approval. e 1998 LEGISLATIVE DINNER JANUARY 26, 1998 6:00 P.M. Public Safety Training Room I. Welcome and Introductions ....................................... Mayor Joy Tierney II. Plymouth Legislative Issues ....................................... City Staff Luce Line Trail Liquor License Fees Transit Bonding Residential Speed Limits Strengthening DWI Laws Fine Distribution HACA Penalty for Housing TIF Districts Tax Exempt Bond Allocations Prepayment of Subsidized Housing Loans Private Property Protection Act (Takings) III. Other General Issues ................................................. City Staff Property Tax Reform Affordable Housing (Attachment 1) Other Transit Issues (Attachment 2) IV. Open Discussion City of Plymouth 1998 Legislative Issues Luce Line Trail Completing the Luce Line Trail all the way to Wirth Regional Park is a goal of Hennepin County Parks. This includes a segment in Plymouth—from West Medicine Lake Drive to East Medicine Lake Beach—which currently is not funded. The segment includes extensive wetlands, and will require two major bridge sections. Cost estimates for this segment are around $1.1 million. Hennepin Parks will seek special bonding legislation for regional trails, including this segment. The City of Plymouth is interested in completing the trail and supports the efforts of Hennepin Parks. Action Requested: Support bonding legislation to complete the Luce Line Trail. Staff Contact: Eric Blank, Park and Recreation Director, 509-5201. Liquor License Fees The City Council has taken a strong position with regard to eliminating access to liquor and tobacco by minors. The Public Safety Department has conducted a series of compliance checks related to tobacco and liquor in the past year, and an increased number of compliance checks is slated for 1998. The City Council has directed staff to review the tobacco and liquor license fees to ensure that the compliance checks, issuance, and enforcement costs are covered by the amount of the license fee. State law establishes a maximum fee on certain types of liquor licenses. Two license fees in particular are woefully inadequate to cover enforcement costs: Off -sale intoxicating liquor license -- $200; Consumption & Display license -- $300. These maximum license fees force the cost of compliance, issuance, and enforcement to be paid by public tax dollars, rather than by the license fee. The City would support removal of the statutory limit on liquor license fees in order to allow the full cost of issuance and enforcement to be paid by the licensees. Action Requested: Support legislation removing the statutory limit on liquor license fees. Staff Contact: Laurie Ahrens, City Clerk, 509-5080 Transit Plymouth operates an award winning transit system, Plymouth Metrolink. A major effort currently underway is to upgrade system facilities to improve ridership. Plymouth had applied with the Met Council for capital grants for these projects. Plymouth's proposals scored highly in the selection process, and it is possible that the city will receive over $400,000. However, it is likely that Governor Carlson's budget will not include any funding for transit operations and capital improvements. If the Governor's budget does not fund the Met Council's transit request, Plymouth will not be able to make capital improvements to the system. The improvements included constructing bus shoulder lanes along Highway 169 from 36`h Avenue to Highway 55. Action Requested: Work to include Met Council transit funding in the budget. Keep the City apprised of transit -related legislation. Staff Contact: John Sweeney, Assistant Public Works Director, 509-5521. Residential Speed Limits Concerns about speeding in residential neighborhoods is one of the most consistent issues that Plymouth residents bring to the City Council. The City has tried various approaches to this problem, including additional stop signs, speed humps, increased enforcement, and public education. The City of Plymouth is interested in a reduction of the residential speed limit to 25 mph. The City will be an active supporter of such legislation, and would gladly testify at any hearings. Action Requested: Consider introducing legislation to reduce residential speed limits. Keep city apprised of any legislation introduced regarding residential speed limits. Staff Contact: Craig Gerdes, Public Safety Director, 509=5161 Enactment of Stricter DWI Laws The City of Plymouth supports the current legislation changing the blood intoxication level to .008. Action Requested: Support current legislation strengthening the DWI laws. Staff Contact: Craig Gerdes, Public Safety Director, 509-5161. 2 Fine Distribution Hennepin County is considering amending the distributions of fines received. Currently the municipality receives the majority of fine moneys. The County is considering altering the distribution which would cut the funds the City receives. This would have a significant impact on the city's budget. Meetings are underway between cities and Hennepin County. If legislation is initiated on fine distribution, the City must have input. Action Requested: Keep city apprised of any legislation changing the distribution of fine moneys between cities and counties. Staff Contact: Craig Gerdes, Public Safety Director, 509-5161 HACA Penalty for Housing TIF Districts Current provisions in the TIF statute (273.1399) regarding qualified housing districts is restrictive and works against the development of more diverse, affordable housing in communities such as Plymouth. The definition of a qualified housing district should be amended to include owner occupied housing, as long as a minimum of 50% of housing developed in the district meets affordable housing cost limitations under the Livable Communities Act. Action Requested: Introduce legislation to modify the qualified housing district definition in the TIF laws. Staff Contacts: Anne Hurlburt, Community Development Director, 509-5401 Ed Goldsmith, Housing Supervisor, 509-5412 Tax Exempt Bond Allocations MHFA has for some time limited its use of tax exempt bonding for its First Time Homebuyers programs to homes costing no more than $95,000. In comparison, the federal limit is approximately $120,000. As incomes and housing costs have risen, the MHFA has not raised this amount. The number of properties in Plymouth meeting the $95,000 limitation has diminished to the point that very few potential purchasers, especially families with children, can use the MHFA First Time Homebuyer programs in Plymouth. MHFA needs to raise the maximum purchase price or make exceptions for communities like Plymouth where higher housing values make use of the these program more difficult. Action Requested: Introduce legislation requiring MHFA to use federal guidelines for first time homebuyer programs, or making adjustments for communities like Plymouth with higher value homes. 3 Staff Contact: Ed Goldsmith, Housing Supervisor, 509-5412 Prepayment of Subsidized Housing Loans Representatives Long and Clark have drafted legislation in consultation with the Association of Metropolitan Municipalities and other organizations that attempts to respond to the potential loss of existing affordable housing by owners prepaying their current subsidized housing loans and converting their units to higher cost market rate housing. There are four developments in Plymouth with a total of 254 subsidized housing units that could prepay their obligations and convert to market cost housing within the next several years. These are all well managed and maintained facilities that provide needed affordable housing for families and senior citizens in the community. The proposed legislation would expand the MHFA's authority to offer loans based upon equity and appropriate funding for such equity loans. It also modifies sections 462A.222 and 474A.061 to provide a priority for proposals which preserve existing subsidized housing in the federal low income housing tax credit and tax exempt bond programs, respectively. Action Requested: Keep the city apprised of any legislation in this area, and support efforts to preserve existing affordable housing. Staff Contact: Ed Goldsmith, Housing Supervisor, 509-5412. Private Property Protection Act (Takings) The Private Property Protection Act (HF 2216/SF 1963) would make it state policy to require compensation for state or local regulatory actions that reduce the market value of private property, unless the action is taken to abate a public nuisance, and the property owner contributed to or had reason to know of the nuisance. Under the heading "Inverse Condemnation," the bill defines a regulatory taking thus: "Whenever implementation by the state or any of its political subdivisions of any regulatory program operates to reduce the fair market value of real property for the uses permitted at the time the owner acquired the title, the property has been taken for the use of the public. The regulatory programs include, but are not limited to, land use planning or zoning programs." The bill provides for compensation as determined by a jury and prohibits making a waiver of the these provisions a condition of granting approval of a project or issuance of a permit. It allows actions without compensation only to prevent a public nuisance or demonstrable harm to the health and safety of the public, but makes governmental determination of such binding on a court. In addition, the bill requires that governmental units unable to pay for a taking under this act instead relax the action as it affects the disputed property and all other similarly situated properties. The bill makes other E changes and would apply retroactively to include future actions taken under current land use, zoning, and other laws. Action Requested: Oppose this legislation as currently proposed. Staff Contact: Anne Hurlburt, Community Development Director, 509-5401 5 Attachment 1 City of Plymouth 1997 Affordable Housing Activities During 1997, in addition to the on-going management of the Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority's (HRA) federal Section 8 Certificate and Voucher Programs and the Plymouth Town Square senior apartments, the City continued to support the development of affordable housing within the City. Significant accomplishments during the year included the following: Shenandoah Woods Apartments The City granted land use approvals for 64 mixed income one, two, and three bedroom apartments to be constructed at 22' Avenue and Shenandoah Lane. This development will include 6 Metropolitan Housing Opportunity Program (MHOP) Public Housing units (9%), 18 units (28%) affordable to persons up to 50% of area median income, 22 units (35%) affordable at 60% of median income, and 18 units (28%) at modest markets rents. The City also approved $100,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant funds to assist this development. Construction is scheduled to start this Spring. Village At Bassett Creek The City created Tax Increment Financing District No. 7-5 at Highway 55 and Revere Lane as a Housing District to support development of 176 modest cost townhomes (68 [39%] of which would sell below the Metropolitan Council's $120,000 threshold for affordable housing), 46 federally subsidized apartments for low income seniors, and 6 subsidized MHOP rental townhomes for low income families. The townhomes would be developed by the Rottlund Company and the rental housing would be developed and managed by CommonBond Communities. The City authorized the sale of up to $3,290,000 in TIF bonds to make this development feasible. The developer is currently working with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to address the presence of concrete debris on the site that is contaminated with asbestos floor tile. If the developer, land owner, and MPCA can agree upon an affordable means of treating the contamination; the development should be able to begin this Spring. At the Lake Apartments The City issued tax-exempt housing revenue refunding bonds that financed the purchase and rehabilitation of this 27 year old 204 unit apartment complex at 26`' Avenue and Lancaster Lane. As a condition for this financing, the City required that the development include 20 units (10%) that would be affordable to eligible applicants at or below 50% of area median income. This is a more stringent requirement than is required by either state or federal guidelines and produced more truly affordable housing, than would have been otherwise provided. Shenandoah Townhomes Housing Improvement Area The City created this Housing Improvement Area in response to a request for assistance from the Homeowners Association and a petition from area homeowners as provided for in state statute. The City has agreed to issue $1,670,000 in taxable general obligation bonds to finance needed re -siding and related improvements that the Homeowners Association cannot finance. The Shenandoah Townhomes consist of 219 affordable homes with assessor's values from approximately $60,000 to $98,000 and an average value of approximately $72,800. The City's assistance will preserve these affordable homes in the City. The Plymouth HRA was successful in obtaining $178,080 from the Federal Home Loan Bank through the assistance of the Franklin National Bank to subsidize the cost of the proposed improvements for 53 low and moderate income Shenandoah Townhome owner -occupants. The HRA developed the application and has been administering the process to qualify the eligible owners. The Homeowners Association is preparing to begin the re -siding work this Spring. Community Development Block Grant and Minnesota Housing Finance Agency Funds The City received an allocation of $322,000 in federal Community Development funds for 1997. The City provides these funds to the Plymouth HRA to assist low and moderate income families and individuals. During 1997, the HRA assisted 5 low and moderate income families to become homeowners with $93,400 in CDBG funds. It also assisted 15 low and moderate income families to rehabilitate their homes with $89,227 in CDBG funds. The HRA also facilitated $539,065 in 7 below market interest rate first time homebuyer mortgages from the MHFA and an additional $5,278 to provide MHFA rehabilitation loans to 2 families through Hennepin County. An additional $30,000 in CDBG funding was granted to Hammer Residences to make a group home for 5 developmentally disabled persons handicapped accessible. Section 8 Landlord Participation As rental vacancy rates have fallen in Plymouth and the entire Twin Cities area to below 2%, the numbers of properties participating in the federal Section 8 -certificate and voucher housing assistance programs has fallen dramatically. This has made it extremely difficult for persons with Section 8 Certificates or Vouchers to find housing that will accept this assistance. The Plymouth HRA has initiated a program to work with local landlords to develop incentives to retain landlords already participating in the programs and to recruit other landlords to participate. This is essential if this major source of affordable housing is to continue to be available in Plymouth. As part of this initiative the HRA will be the agency that monitors the new 4d low income property tax classification in Plymouth for the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency. Community Housing Coalition City staff began working with Interfaith Outreach And Community Partners (IOCP) and the City of Wayzata to work cooperatively to support affordable housing for area residents and workers. As an outgrowth of this effort IOCP has organized the Community Housing Coalition to develop responses to the housing needs in our community. With a grant from the McKnight Foundation :IOCP has hired a Housing Coordinator to organize the Coalition and develop programs to support affordable housing. The City of Plymouth, IOCP, City of Wayzata, Plymouth Housing Alliance, West Hennepin Community Builders, Community Action for Suburban Hennepin (CASH), Minnesota Interfaith Coalition for Affordable Housing (MICAH), have been represented at the Coalition's monthly meetings. Recently, we invited representatives from Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council and PRISM to attend these monthly meetings. For additional information on any of these items, please contact Ed Goldsmith, HRA Supervisor at 509-5412. Attachment 2 DATE: January 21, 1998 TO: Dwight D. Johnson, City Manager through Fred G. Moore, P.E., Director of Public Works FROM: John R. Sweeney, Transit Administrator SUBJECT: 1998 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA FOR T2 UBURBAN TRANSIT ASSOCIATION The Suburban Transit Association (STA) is a coalition of eleven communities that provide suburban transit services to their constituents. All eleven are members on behalf of their suburban transit service providers which are Minnesota Valley Transit Authority, Southwest Metro Transit Commission, Plymouth Metrolink and Shakopee Area Transit. The members of the STA include Apple Valley, Burnsville, Chanhassen, Chaska, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Plymouth, Prior Lake, Rosemount, Savage and Shakopee. The STA was formed in 1995 to provide suburban transit communities with a stronger presence at the Minnesota Legislature. Annually, since its formation, the STA has established a legislative agenda corresponding to that year's legislative session. The STA has retained the firm of Messerli & Kramer to lobby on their behalf during the current session. Attached to this memo is a copy of the 1998 legislative agenda of the STA. The agenda is self- explanatory detailing proactive issues, supported issues, issues to monitor and defensive issues. Under the category proactive issues are the following items: • Clarify transit zone property tax reductions to include transit hubs. • Require counties to provide a separate line on property tax statements reflecting a city levy for opt -out transit. SUBJECT: 1998 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA FOR THE SUBURBAN TRANSIT ASSOCIATION Page 2 These are the two issues that the STA will be actively pursuing in the 1998 legislative session and will be requesting support from the twenty five member legislative delegation collectively representing the eleven cities previously mentioned and also will be looking for enough support to pass proposed legislation for these issues. The item requesting a separate line on the property tax statement is most crucial to the cities of Plymouth and Rosemount as both cities did not choose to levy their own taxes for transit purposes in 1996 or 1997. If in the future, either city chooses to levy their own, it is believed to be crucial to have a statement on the property tax form explaining to the taxpayers that the transit tax is not a city levy increase but rather a transfer of tax from the Metropolitan Council tax levy. If after reviewing this material you have additional questions, I would be happy to meet with you at your convenience to discuss them in more detail. attachment N:\pw\Engineering\TRANSITIMEMOS\98Legislative Agenda.doc SUBURBAN TRANSIT ASSOCIATION 1998 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA I. PROACTIVE ISSUES: A. CLARIFY TRANSIT ZONE PROPERTY TAX REDUCTIONS TO INCLUDE TRANSIT HUBS The Suburban Transit Association (STA) supports legislation that would clarify the existing law relating to property tax incentives in transit zones. In 1995, the Legislature created "transit zones" for property tax purposes. Transit zones are areas within the metropolitan urban service area that are also within 1/4 of a mile of a transit route along which regular route service is provided. Commercial -industrial property (C/I) within these transit zones receive reduced property tax class rates. Property located within transit zones that is valued at less than $150,000 is taxed at the standard C/I rate of 2.7 percent. However, property in a transit zone with a value greater than $150,000 is taxed at 85 percent of the statutory class rate of four percent, or 3.4 percent. The STA believes the intent of this legislative policy is laudable, but the definition of "regular route service" is ambiguous. For the purposes of the transit zone law, state statute defines "regular route transit service' as that which provides at least two scheduled runs each hour between 7:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and regularly scheduled service on Saturday, Sunday, and holidays, and weekdays after 6:30 p.m. This definition excludes circulator routes within communities that do not connect with the system of metropolitan regular route transit operated by the Metropolitan Council. The STA would like this definition clarified by the Legislature to ensure that a combination of routes leaving a transit hub with the designated frequency and connecting with the metropolitan regular route transit system will qualify as providing "regular route transit service." This change will provide an incentive for C/I development within the vicinity of a transit hub. In order to ensure that the tax incentive is properly used to promote development adjacent to transit hubs and to ensure that local subdivisions do not lose significant tax base, the STA believes that the mileage restriction for transit zones located next to transit hubs should be reduced from one-quarter mile to one-eighth mile. Additionally, the STA would support a sunset on this legislation. B. REQUIRE COUNTIES TO PROVIDE A SEPARATE LINE ON PROPERTY TAX STATEMENTS REFLECTING A CITY LEVY FOR OPT -OUT TRANSIT In 199(i the Legislature granted communities providing opt -out transit the option of levying their own transit taxes. For communities not choosing this option, the Metropolitan Council would continue to levy the transit tax on their behalf. For taxes payable in 1997, a separate line was provided on property tax statements that separated this levy from the general city levy. This separate line was provided to ensure that property taxpayers recognized the tax was not a city levy increase, but rather a transfer of a tax from the Metropolitan Council's tax levy. However, this separate line was authorized for one year only. The STA is requesting the Legislature to grant Opt -01.1t communities who levy the transit tax the ability to permanently place this tax levy on a separate line. This would reduce confusion among taxpayers by clarifying that the transit property tax is required by state statute and is not a discretionary spending item. II. SUPPORTED ISSUES: A. Provide additional incentives for reverse commute transit. B. Work closely with the Legislature to find transit solutions to ensure that new welfare policies are implemented in a timely and cost-effective manner. C. Encourage partnerships with opt -out transit providers and school districts. D. Allow additional communities to be added to the opt -out transit system. D. Support additional regional transit capital funding requested by the Metropolitan Council. E. Encourage the development of commuter rail transit lines in the metro area. F. Support infrastructure improvements to the existing transit system, i.e. building additional HOV lanes uU. ( sUE s rro MONITOR: A. Monitor proposals that increase highway funding and transit revenues. B. Monitor congestion pricing proposals to ensure that transit is not compromised by encouraging single -occupancy vehicle commuters to use bus lanes. C. Monitor property tax reform proposals. D. Monitor Livable Communities Act, regional growth and regional infrastructure issues to ensure that policies are not detrimental to transit. E. Monitor tax increment financing reform legislation. IV. DEFENSIVE ISSUES: A. Oppose the elimination of the opt -out transit provider system. B. Oppose weakening local control of the opt -out transit provider system. C. Oppose imposition of levy limits on the transit levy for opt -out transit providers. D. Oppose amendments to tax feathering legislation to include "paratransit" in the definition of transit services which trigger various property tax levels.