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Home My WebLink AboutCouncil Information Memorandum 11-20-19986r NOVEMBER 20, 1998 1. COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE.- NOTE: CHEDULE.NOTE: Ward 1 Councilmember Tim Bildsoe meets with residents and receives their comments in the Administration Library, beginning at 6:00 PM before each Regular Council meeting. NOVEMBER 30, 7: 00 PM DECEMBER 2, 7:00 PM DECEMBER 7, 7: 00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING, Topic: Water Quality Plan Public Safety Training Room REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers TR UTH IN TAXATION HEARING, Council Chambers DECEMBER 16, 7: 00 PM Immediately TR UTH IN TAXATION HEARING CONTINUED, prior to Regular Council Meeting Council Chambers DECEMBER 16, 7: 00 PM 2. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 7: 00 PM 3. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 7. 00 PM 4. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers YOUTHADVISORY COUNCIL, Medicine Lake Room. Agenda is attached. PLANNING COMMISSION, Council Chambers THANKSGIVING DAY HOLIDAY, City offices closed • CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO NOVEMBER 20, 1998 5 !#3 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 7: 00 PM HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION, Medicine Lake Room November, December, and January calendars are attached. (M-6) 1. NEWS ARTICLES, RELEASES, PUBLICATIONS, ETC. a) League of Minnesota Cities Friday Fax. (I -]q) Page 2 b) Letter to residents of Lake Camelot and Camelot Estates regarding northwest Plymouth issues. (I -1b) c) Wayzata School District information notice on the December 15 School Bond Referendum election. (I -1c) d) Request for input from Osseo School District officials on a planned "special gala event" in 1999. (I -d) e) Notice of merger of Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc. (SHE) and Rieke Carroll Muller Associates, Inc. (RCM). (I -1e) Letter from Hennepin County Commissioner Penny Steele with notice of a public hearing December 8 regarding the Hennepin County Solid Waste Management Master Plan. (I -1j) g) Information on development models to protect streams, lakes, and wetlands. (I--19) Z CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS POLICY—CORRESPONDENCE a) Letter from Communications Coordinator Helen LaFave to Elizabeth Dargag of Sacred Heart School in Robbinsdale providing background on the history and origins of Plymouth. Dargag's original letter is attached. (I -2a) A status report on the most recent correspondence is attached. (1-2) 3. MINUTES a) November 9 Youth Advisory Council meeting. (I -3a) b) Draft minutes of the November 10 Planning Commission meeting. (I -3b) 4. CORRESPONDENCE a) Letter from Mary Einarson regarding the request for expansion of the site owned by the Association Free Lutheran Bible School. (I -4a) CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO NOVEMBER 20, 1998 Page 3 b) Letter from Paul and Ardis Oppegard regarding the request for expansion of the site owned by the Association Free Lutheran Bible School. (I -4b) c) Letter from Planner John Rask to Jim Touve regarding development of the Little Peninsula. (1--4c) 5. COUNCIL ITEMS a) December 2, 1998 regular meeting draft agenda. (1-5a) i Youth Advisory Council November 23, 1998 Agenda 1. Call to order 2. Approve minutes of November 9, 1998 meeting 3. Public Safety Department presentations and discussion a. adult rights acquired at age 18 b. curfew information c. cigarette and alcohol accessibility d. DARE program 4. Committee organizational items a. roster b. review schedule of meetings c. open meetings law information 5. Future topics a. Citywide water quality plan? 6. Adjourn M-6 C 00 V 1"S"1 N n ^C <00 ELU a Q 00 O lilt• X ��"4 O owe a Iz a. x ,u w> y a r[F(Z r oi0 `t io OU O.l? �s1tPr FQ �N �M1M1IlA -dsu.iA y �Fy? 5 � W 6��•• Vl G �r�i 00 1 N d � e 7 z tG a3laei88 ¢� C N euao who < app wvBE ..a� ti Oy OU.8 C �QY SZ yp�'U t u w4 O $� 8= � 8 cZ0 oC rn =Od U.SU.S Ou 8 i �,i ca 0 C >- O 0 O0 >-o 0 G '7 yD G u w x�� Kn 'L �. a>d� Kn Qi a>�0 C y pC 0. OD a [W_ ^ oa.o �Ut-> oAU'� o¢Z.a �p M oAU,�a. oQZ.I O 8u3a N � " ti N " M C13 C% '� 00 H U i I Vl Nna ar.e N -nn ti cV a F _gin n t1 Ste• V v np N nOrry- rrTT t 00 ;.44 z� 0of 0� a� �V UU¢C JQGc ;32Fcri CSO eyed aU awmw c cd C �x IV� 05 U a rs, o bow"� M O � Z rzp� y S d�deS CN ^I 00 U p' .5 C� � 0 Nn -r« -' YU ,�, i i QQ O oQzI N zmry _«« >1 CCS F U M, 6 CIS cn M O fg00 ':.4 'L7 U � �d E Y Nt4� 0.0 •�j A, is p0 J iLc �Y M A U•0,3 x o� 4 E3-- v_ HE 00 Cd G O Cam 00:3 gN� 00 ti $O C13 C% NOV 19 198 12:55PM LEAGUE OF MN CITIES I a P.1 _ vr�sy FRIDAYFAx �_ Vol. 3, No. 23 r aa atiN CW A weekly legislative update from the League of Minnesota Cities November 19, 1998 IMPORTANT AGENDA UPDATE Governor -elect Ventura, Speaker -elect Sviggum to address LMC Policy Adoption Conference City officials encouraged to attend! Note earlier speaker start time. Governor -elect Jesse Ventura is scheduled to stop by the LMC Policy Adoption Conference tomorrow morning—Friday, Nov. 20, from 8:30 to 8:45 a.m. and hear the Governor -elect's comments. Please note the earlier start time, and inform any city officials from your community who are regis- tered or interested in attending the conference. All city officials (even those who have not registered for the full During the campaign, candidates for conference) are invited to attend statewide office shared their views on Agenda 8:00 Registration and Continental Breakfast 8:30 Presentation from Governor -elect Jesse Ventura 8:45 Welcome trom President Det Haag and Executive Director Jim Miller 9:00 How Legislators.See Cities and How to Tett Your Story Effectively Senator Dean Elton Johnson Representative Sharon Marko 9:30 Y2k - Legislative Perspectives Senator Steve Kelley Representative Bill Hilly 10:00 BREAK 10.20 Electric Deregulation Outlook Representative Loren Jennings Representative Ken Wolf Mr. John Knapp, Minnesota Energy Consumers 11:00 Potpourri of Assorted Legislative issues - IGR Staff 11:30 LUNCH 1:00 Policy Adoption 2:00 House perspectives on the 1999 Session House Speaker -elect Steve Sviggum 2:30 ADJOURN city issues at an LMC Gubernatorial Candidates Forum and through two special issues of the Cities Bulletin. Cooperation between state policy makers and local governments is essential to meeting the needs of our common constituents --the citizens of Minnesota. We encourage members to attend, hear Govemor-elect Ventura's and Speakerelect Sviggum's comments, and continue to strengthen the state - local relationship. A limited number of on-site registra- tion spaces are available on a first come -first served basis for those attendees who have not registered and want to stay for the full-day conference. (Onsite registration fee is $50.) ' -`X ._s. Please note the earlier speaker start time! Tulle 8 a.m. 2:30 p.m. Date Nov. 20,1998 Location Ramada Plaza Hotel Minnetonka 12201 Ridgedale Drive, Minnetonka (612) 593-0000 or (800) 588-0443 November 17, 1998 Dear Resident: ��/ t �9 F-01k, Letter sent to residents of Lake Camelot and Camelot Overlook at the request of Councilmember Bildsoe. I am writing to introduce you to a City of Plymouth publication, Northwest Notes. I've enclosed the latest issue of this newsletter, which was started by the City of Plymouth over a year ago to keep interested residents informed about the progress of the City's Comprehensive Plan update. It is geared particularly to the interests of the residents and landowners of northwest Plymouth, but is mailed free of charge to any interested citizen. The newsletter is published on an irregular basis when there is news to report. We have mailed 10 issues since August of 1997. All back issues are available on the City of Plymouth web site (www.ci.plymouth.mn.us). eww. Pw Recently, the Plymouth City Council made a decision on how we will plan for the northwest area of the City. The details of their decision are outlined in the newsletter. Council Member Tim Bildsoe, Ward 1 representative, received many phone calls from residents of your neighborhood on this topic. He asked that I send this letter to acknowledge this interest and to let you know about the newsletter. If you wish to receive future issues of Northwest Notes, please call the Community Development Department at 509-5408 to ask to be placed on the mailing list. You may also fax us at 509-5407, or send me e-mail at ahurlbur@ci.plymouth.mn.us. Sincerely, Anne W. Hurlburt, AICP Community Development Director cc: Mayor and City Council PLYMOUTH A Beauti I Place To Live 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 www.d.plymouth.w.us W II ote for quality November 16, 1998 "° `''' ote for kids I Altote yes on bec. IT s Dear Community Lead ' . The Wayzata School Board h�arri uhly adopted a resolution requesting voter approval of funding for school improvements. The Bond Referendum election will take place on Tuesday, December 15, 1998; voters will be asked to approve a total of $18.5 million for: • Facility Improvements $13.35 million Funds provided by a referendum would allow improvements at all elementary and middle schools. Improvements include interior and exterior maintenance, electrical and mechanical upgrades, and additional classroom space at some schools. Technology $4 million The long-range technology plan calls for a phased replacement of outdated computers and audio-visual equipment. The District would also strengthen its network security system. Land Acquisition $450,000 Enrollment is currently projected to continue to grow in the Wayzata School District. Funds would allow the District to purchase land, which in the future would house an elementary school. Family Service Center $150,000 The District's growing Early Childhood Family Education program, as well as other important family support services, would be housed in a renovated portion of Central Middle School. • Other $550,000 Additional funds generated by the bond referendum would be used to address field improve- ments, expand warehouse space for buildings and grounds equipment (due to growth in District), and renovate existing space at Central Middle School to house Curriculum Services and Community Education Services. Due to inadequate state funding for capital improvements, the District must rely on alternative funding sources to maintain and repair its facilities. Although the District has had the opportuni- ty to construct new schools in recent years, many of the District's schools are over 30 years old (West Middle School — built in 1949; Sunset Hill Elementary — built in 1963; Oakwood Elementary — built in 1957; Central Middle School — built in 1960). In his review and comment on the District's construction project, Robert J. Wedl, commissioner of education, noted, "The Commissioner of Children, Families & Learning judges the proposed construction project to be educationally and economically advisable." Due to changes in class rates, property owners will likely see a decrease in their school taxes in 1999. If the bond referendum were approved, property owners would still realize a d. --crease in school taxes, though not as great. The approximate tax impact would be: Residential $125,000 $190,000 $250,000 $300,000 Commercial $250,000 $750,000 $2,000,000 Annual Tax Impact $34.00 $59.00 $81.00 $100.00 $164.00 $572.00 $1,591.00 While the District is proud to report exceptional student achievements, we cannot take equal pride in the condition of some of our school buildings. District residents have come to expect a high quality of education from the Wayzata Public Schools. This quality is evidenced in recent accomplishments: • 13 National Merit Scholars in 1998 • 60 Advanced Placement Scholars in 1998 Test scores among best in state on both the Basic Standards Tests (8`h grade level) and Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (3rd and 5' grade level); 1998 high school ACT score of 24.1 reflects the first time WHS has ever scored above 24 The quality of education students in the Wayzata Public Schools receive is unparalleled. The quality of our classroom and school environments should also reflect our commitment to continue this tradition of excellence. Sincerely, Paul R. Beilfuss, Ed. oward Mary NortoYn Superintendent of Schools Co -Chair Co -Chair Citizens' Vote Yes Committee Paid for by Citizens Vote Yes Committee Monica Manuell, Treasurer, 1400-F Hwy 101 North #149, Plymouth, MN 55447-3064 r istrict J— ` �� L. CHRIS RICHARDSON, Ph.D. Superintendent A SCHOOLS Phone: (612) 391-7003 FAX: (612) 391-7070 November 17, 1998 Dwight Johnson, City City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mr. Johnson, The Independent School District 279 Foundation is in the beginning stages of planning a special gala event for the spring of 1999. We are excited about how this event can pull together a broad range of community residents, public officials, students, and parents for socializing, celebrating, and recognizing achievement. The title for this event will be "An Investment In Youth". In an attempt to acquire input for this event from your city staff and/or your elected officials, I'm requesting that you identify a representative or two from this group in your city to provide input and possibly participate on the planning committee. I've asked Lee Skavanger from our Community Education and Services Department to follow up on this letter and give you a call to answer any questions you may have regarding my request. Lee's phone number is 391-7115 in case you would like to contact him. In closing, thanks in advance for your cooperation on what I believe can be a very positive experience for members of our community. Respectfully, L. Chris Richardson, Ph.D. Superintendent c: Joy Tierney, Mayor INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 279 Educational Service Center, 11200 93rd Avenue North Maple Grove, MN 55369-6605 =5EN November 12, 1998 Kathy Lueckert Asst City Manager City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447-1482 Dear Kathy: vQ') 3535 VADNAIS CENTER DRIVE, 200 SEH CENTER, ST. PAUL, MN 55110 612490-2000 800325-2055 ARCHITECTURE ENGINEERING ENVIRONMENTAL TRANSPORTATION We are pleased to announce that the consulting firms of Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc. (SEH) and Rieke Carroll Muller Associates, Inc. (RCM) are intending to merge effective February 1, 1999. We are excited about joining forces because, from every perspective, our two companies are a good fit. We believe the merger is a win-win for you and our staffs. Through this merger, you will have available a broader range of services while retaining the important personal service that comes with local offices staffed by people who live and raise their families in the region they serve. Your current working relationships with SEH professionals will not change. We are sending you this announcement because we value your opinion, and we would appreciate hearing your comments or questions. Please call (or e-mail) me at my direct line: Gary Gray (651) 490-2008, (ggray@sehinc.com) or contact your SEH Client Representative. Best regards, Gary R. Gray SEH President and CEO P.S. To learn more about RCM, please visit their web site at www.rcm-assoc.com. SHORTELLIOTT HENDRICKSON INC. MINNEAPOLIS, MN ST. CLOUD, MN CHIPPEWA FALLS, WI MADISON, WI LAKE COUNTY, IN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER wyth C\O BOARD OF HENNEPIN COUNTY COMMIS A-2400 GOVERNMENT CENTER MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA 55487-C November 13, 1998 The Honorable Joy Tierney Mayor, City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mayor Tierney: 4t; &7�q Enclosed for your consideration is the proposed Ilcnnepin County Solid Waste Management Master Plan. This document is the master plan for managing Hennepin County's solid waste through the year 2017. The enclosed plan is the culmination of efforts by the Solid Waste Management Advisory Committee, comprised of citizen representatives, municipal officials, and representatives from waste management firms, and the Hennepin County Department of Environmental Services. I served as chair of the committee. Last year, the Minnesota Office of Environmental Assistance and the seven metropolitan counties, joined through a joint powers agreement and known as the Solid Waste Management Coordinating Board, together prepared the Metropolitan Solid Waste Management Policy Plan. This plan guides the development of county solid waste master plans, ordinances, and proposals for waste reduction, recycling and waste processing through the year 2017. The Hennepin County plan provides an overview of the integrated approach that has been taken by the county to address the growth in mixed municipal solid waste, household hazardous wastes, and other problem materials. The plan also contains strategies the county will use to reduce future growth in waste, to decrease toxicity levels in the waste stream, and to educate citizens and businesses on alternative methods and products that are compatible with our environment. Hennepin County's plan is part of a Regional/County Solid Waste Master Plan. The Regional/County Solid Waste Master Plan has not yet been completed. A public hearing to obtain input on the proposed Hennepin County plan has been scheduled for Tuesday, December 8, 1998, at 2:00 p.m. before the Environment and General Government Committee of the Hennepin County Board. If you or someone from your city would like to testify at the public hearing, please phone Maria Franz, committee clerk, at 348-4019, or send written comments to her attention at A2400 Government Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55487. It is anticipated that the Hennepin County Board will take action on the Hennepin County plan on Tuesday, December 15. r November 13, 1998 Page 2 Some time after January 1, 1999, the Hennepin County Board will take action on the Regional/County Solid Waste Master Plan. At that time, the Hennepin County plan will be reformatted to incorporate elements of the regional plan. If you should have any questions regarding the plan or approval process, please feel free to contact Darrell Washington with the Department of Environmental Services at 348-4787. I want to thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Penny Steele Commissioner Enclosure C: Hennepin County Board of Commissioners City Managers Consensus Agreement n Model Development Principles To Protect Our Streams, Lakes and Wetlands Introduction More than 1.5 million acres of land are developed each year in the United States. In most communities, this development consists of many individual projects built over decades. The cumulative amount of land development can transform the landscape within a community. Development alters the surface of the land, by replacing natural cover with roof tops, roads, parking lots, driveways and sidewalks. These hard surfaces are impermeable to rainfall and are collectively known as impervious cover. Recent watershed research has shown that impervious cover can have a negative impact on the quality of our nation's aquatic resources. The influence of impervious cover on aquatic systems presents a challenge to communities interested in sustainable development. Communities have long struggled to achieve the goal of sustainable development— economic evelopmenteconomic growth that also protects the local environment. Indeed, many communities have found that their own development codes and standards can actually work against sustainable development. For example, local codes and standards often create needless impervious cover in the form of wide streets, expansive parking lots and large -lot subdivisions. At the same time, local codes often give developers little or no incentive to conserve natural areas that are so important for watershed protection. Consequently, communities may want to reevaluate their local codes to ensure that they produce more sustainable development. As members of the Site Planning Roundtable, we have worked for two years to craft model principles to guide better land development. We are a wide and diverse group of individuals involved in planning, designing and building new communities and protecting the natural environment. It is our contention that better development can only be achieved if we fundamentally change the way that land is developed— by reducing impervious cover, conserving natural areas and preventing stormwater pollution. To this end, we have brought our technical and real world experience together through a consensus process in an effort to create more environmentally sensitive, economically viable and locally appropriate development. We have developed a set of twenty-two model development principles for consideration by local planners, developers, lenders and environmental groups. Applied together, the model principles can measurably reduce impervious cover, conserve natural areas and prevent stormwater pollution from new development. In addition, the model principles can enhance the value of our neighborhoods and enrich the quality of life in our communities. With this in mind, the model principles should be considered as a starting point when evaluating current local codes, and should be interpreted in the context of the Technical Support Document upon which they were derived. Key Points of Consensus http://www.pipeline.com/-mrrunoff/midp.htm 10/5/98 . Meaningful changes in how development occurs can only happen when local concerns regarding safety, fire protection, liability, economics, market acceptance, and quality of life are thoroughly satisfied. . Model development principles are needed to guide better land development and to act as a benchmark to assess current zoning, parking, street and subdivision codes. . Model development principles must also enhance the quality of life within a community as well as protect natural and aquatic resources. . Model development principles must be implemented as part of a flexible, locally - adapted strategy for better site planning and are not a national 'one -size fits all' standard. . The model development principles should be consistent with larger community goals (both economic and environmental) that are put forth in comprehensive growth management, resource protection, or watershed management plans. . Where possible, infill and redevelopment should be encouraged to reduce the amount of new impervious cover created in the landscape and create a more compact development pattern. . /t is recognized that the model principles must be adapted to reflect the unique characteristics of each community, not all principles apply to every development site, and some principles may not always fully complement each other. To this end, we have combined our technical, professional, and real world experiences to craft twenty-two model development principles that identify for local planners and zoning officials key benchmarks for measurably reducing the amount of impervious cover created by new development. Site Planning Roundtable Model Development Principles The twenty-two model development principles provide design guidance for economically viable, yet environmentally sensitive development. Our objective is to provide planners, developers, and local officials with benchmarks to investigate where existing ordinances may be modified to reduce impervious cover, conserve natural areas, and prevent stormwater pollution. These development principles are not national design standards. Instead, they identify areas where existing codes and standards can be changed to better protect streams, lakes and wetlands at the local level. The development principles are divided into the three following areas: . Residential Streets and Parking Lots (Habitat for Cars) . Lot Development (Habitat for People) . Conservation of Natural Areas (Habitat for Nature) Each principle is presented as a simplified design objective. Actual techniques for achieving the principle should be based on local conditions. Please consult the Technical Support Document for more detailed rationale for each principle. Residential Streets and Parking Lots (Habitat for Cars) � • r�ar,ay a. opo �� http://www.pipeline.com/—mrrunoff/mldp.htm 10/5/98 I onI {I I:Ma I Oucuiny lam ! Oucuinp I, I'M IV 1. Design residential streets for the minimum required pavement width needed to support travel lanes; on -street parking; and emergency, maintenance, and service vehicle access. These widths should be based Ion traffic volume. 2. Reduce the total length of residential streets by examining alternative street layouts to determine the best option for increasing the number of homes per unit length. 3. Wherever possible, residential street right-of-way widths should reflect the minimum required to accommodate the travel -way, the sidewalk, and vegetated open channels. Utilities and storm drains should be located within the pavement section of the right-of-way wherever feasible. 4. Minimize the number of residential street cul-de-sacs and incorporate andscaped areas to reduce their impervious cover. The radius of cul-de- sacs should be the minimum required to accommodate emergency and maintenance vehicles. Alternative turnarounds should be considered. 5. Where density, topography, soils, and slope permit, vegetated open channels should be used in the street right-of-way to convey and treat stormwater runoff. hftp:/twww.pipeline.com/—mrrunoff/midp.htm 10/5/98 6. The required parking ratio governing a particular land use or activity should be enforced as both a maximum and a minimum in order to curb excess parking space construction. Existing parking ratios should be reviewed for conformance taking into account local and national experience to see if lower ratios are warranted and feasible. 7. Parking codes should be revised to lower parking requirements where mass transit is available or enforceable shared parking arrangements are made. 8. Reduce the overall imperviousness associated with parking lots by ,.a" �:.Y w providing compact car spaces: minimizing stall dimensions, incorporating efficient parking lanes, and using pervious materials in spillover parking -- areas where possible. 9. Provide meaningful incentives to encourage structured and shared parking to make it more economically viable. EEf , 10. Wherever possible, provide stormwater treatment for parking lot runoff —,�,ti,, using bioretention areas, filter strips, and/or other practices that can be „. integrated into required landscaping areas and traffic islands. Lot Development (Habitat for People) 11. Advocate open space design development incorporating smaller lot http://www.pipeline.com/-mrrunoff/mldp.htm 10/5/98 v 1 riMsizes to minimize total impervious area, educe total construction costs, conserve natural areas, provide community recreational space, and promote watershed protection. M 12. Relax side yard setbacks and allow narrower frontages to reduce total road length in the community and overall site imperviousness. Relax front setback requirements to minimize driveway lengths and reduce overall lot imperviousness. n: ;r 13 Promote more flexible design standards for residential subdivision .� sidewalks. Where practical, consider locating sidewalks on only one side of the street and providing common walkways linking pedestrian areas. 14. Reduce overall lot imperviousness by promoting alternative driveway surfaces and shared driveways that connect two or more homes together. 15. Clearly specify how community open space will be managed and designate a sustainable legal entity responsible for managing both natural and recreational open space. " w 16. Direct rooftop runoff to pervious areas such as yards, open channels, M or vegetated areas and avoid routing rooftop runoff to the roadway and �::;.�;•• the stormwater conveyance system. http://www.pipeline.com/—mrrunoff/midp.htm 10/5/98 .' Conservation of Natural Areas (Habitat for Nature) 17. Create a variable width, naturally vegetated buffer system along all . S' ,.. �perennial streams that also encompasses critical environmental features such as the 100 -year floodplain, steep slopes and freshwater wetlands. tea..-wN T.r. .t 18. The riparian stream buffer should be preserved or restored with native vegetation. The buffer system should be maintained through the plan review delineation, construction, and post -development stages. e 19. Clearing and grading of forests and native vegetation at a site should be limited to the minimum amount needed to build lots, allow access, and provide fire protection. A fixed portion of any community open space . should be managed as protected green space in a consolidated manner. 20. Conserve trees and other vegetation at each site by planting additional vegetation, clustering tree areas, and promoting the use of native plants. Wherever practical, manage community open space, street rights-of-way, parking lot islands, and other landscaped areas. http://www.pipeline.com/—mrrunoff/midp.htm 10/5/98 Ljstr21. Incentives and flexibility in the form of density compensation, buffer averaging, property tax reduction, stormwater credits, and by -right open earn space development should be encouraged to promote conservation of buffers, forests, meadows, and other areas of environmental value. In addition, off-site mitigation consistent with locally adopted watershed plans should be encouraged. 22. New stormwater outfalls should not discharge unmanaged stormwater into jurisdictional wetlands, sole -source aquifers, or sensitive areas. Recommendations . We affirm our support for the model development principles and the Technical Support Document upon which they are based. . We encourage local governments to consider these principles when evaluating their local zoning codes, subdivision ordinances, and landscape ordinances. . We encourage the development community to incorporate these model development principles in their land development projects. . We encourage the formation of local roundtables to adopt and adapt these model development principles within the context of local growth and environmental protection goals. . We encourage the lending and insurance communities to consider these principles and examine their role in land development. . We encourage local, state, and federal agencies to provide the technical support, financial incentive, and regulatory flexibility needed to promote the model development principles. . We encourage environmental and watershed organizations and the general public to use these principles as educational tools. Acknowledgements The Site Planning Roundtable would not have been possible without the generous support of http://www.pipeline.com/-mrrunoff/mldp.htm 10/5/98 our funders. _ 1� . The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation . US EPA Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds . Chesapeake Bay Trust . Turner Foundation . Chesapeake Bay Program We would also like to thank the individuals who served as chairs of the Research Subgroups: Lisa Fontana - Institute of Transportation Engineers Residential Streets and Parking Lots Roger Platt - National Realty Committee Conservation of Natural Areas Richard Claytor - Center for Watershed Protection Lot Development CWP Site Planning Roundtable Team Members: Chris Swann, Jennifer Zielinski, Deb Caraco, and Hye Yeong Kwon. References Arendt, R. 1994. Designing Open Space Subdivisions. Booth, D. 1991. Urbanization and the natural drainage system -impacts, solutions and prognoses. Northwest Environmental Journal. 7(1):93-118. Chesapeake Bay Foundation. 1996. Growth, Sprawl, and the Bay: Simple Facts About Growth and Land Use. Leinberger, C. 1995. "Metropolitan Development Trends of the Late 1990s: Social and Environmental Implications." Taylor, B.L. 1993. The influences of wetland and watershed morphological characteristics and relationships to wetland vegetation communities. Masters thesis. Dept. of Civil Engineering. University of Washington. Seattle, WA. Urban Land Institute. 1992. Density by Design. Urban Land Institute. 1997. America's Real Estate. Wells, C. 1995. Impervious Surface Reduction Study: Final Report. City of Olympia Public Works Department. Water Resources Program. Olympia, WA. Site Planning Roundtable Members Resources Full color, hardcopy versions of this Consensus Agreement are available from the Center for Watershed Protection for $3 per copy. A Technical Support Document, Better Site Design: A Handbook for Changing Development Rules in Your Community, is available from the Center for $35. http://www.pipeline.com/—mrrunoff/mldp.htm 10/5/98 November 18, 1998 Elizabeth Dargag Grade 2 Sacred Heart School 4050 Hubbard Avenue N. Robbinsdale, MN 55422 Dear Elizabeth, Mayor Joy Tierney asked me to respond to your letter about how our city got its name. You ask a very good question. The first people to live in what is now Plymouth were Native Americans, the Wahpeton Sioux. They had an encampment at the north end of Medicine Lake. The first settler to the area was Antoine LeCounte, a guide and trader. People from New England, New York and Canada followed. The settlers started the town of Plymouth in April 1858. Hennepin County Commissioners named the new town Plymouth. It was likely named for Plymouth, England and the village of Plymouth that settlers had left behind in New England. It's also interesting to note that after the County Commissioners named Plymouth, the townspeople voted to change the name of the town to Medicine Lake in May 1858. This new name was used only once at the town meeting. The name Medicine Lake was never used again. Unfortunately, the townspeople did not record any reason explaining why they did not continue to call the town Medicine Lake. To help you with your studies, I have included a handout on the history of Plymouth. I also have enclosed some information from the Worldwide Web about our city's history. Thanks again for your question. Enjoy your studies! Sincerely, Helen LaFave Communications Coordinator cc: Kathy Lueckert, Assistant City Manager C/R file (98-69) PLYMOUTH A Beautifu(Pface To Live 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 ®PW• -MP" www.d.plymouth.mmus i u r� History of Plymouth Plymouth's history can be traced back to the pre -Colombian period, 1400-1500 AD. The original inhabitants were the Wahpeton Sioux. Their encampment was at the north end of Medicine Lake. Medicine Lake is derived from the Native American word "Mdewakan," meaning "Lake of the Spirit." It was named by the Wahpeton Sioux after a warrior overturned his canoe and his body was never recovered. Antoine LeCounte, a guide and explorer, was the first settler to this area. He arrived in 1848, but did not settle until 1852. He carried mail from the Red River country to points south, trading goods to Native Americans for horses on the way. LeCounte built the first cabin on East Medicine Lake Boulevard at approximately 291'' Avenue North. Plymouth's beginning as a town occurred in 1855 on the northwest shores of what is now known as Parkers Lake. A grist mill and other structures were built in the area. In the spring of 1857, when Parkers Lake flooded, the mill was taken down and moved to Freeport, Min- nesota. Freeport is now called Wayzata. As new settlers came to the area, they decided to organize. The Hennepin County Board of Commissioners named the new settlement Plymouth. On April 19, 1858, a group of townspeople met at the home of Francis Day to open elections for town offices. On May 11, 1858, the group voted to change the town's name to Medicine Lake. This was used once at the town meeting, but for reasons which were not recorded, it was never used again. Plymouth's growth began to take on a new look. Schools and churches were built and a post office was located in Plymouth. By 1863, hotels were springing up. More changes occurred after the Civil War. By 1880, Plymouth boasted a population of 1,074, and reaped $667 in annual taxes. Farming became the trade of most settlers. Roads were built across Plymouth, making access to other towns possible. Medicine Lake had become a major tourist attraction and resorts were built around its shores. Today, Plymouth offers a complimentary blend of residential, business, industrial and open - spaces. A growing second tier suburban community, comprising nearly 36 square miles, Plymouth's population is 60,344. Because it is located 10 miles northwest of downtown Minneapolis, the community offers residents and businesses a strategic geo- graphic location in the metro area. The loca- tion, combined with Plymouth's lakes and rolling, wooded terrain, TAM continues 4JiEw_- to attract - 170 new resi- ' 4:1 dents and businesses, i=: making it one of the fastest growing communities in the In 1862, during the Sioux uprising at Fort metro area. Ridgeley, near New Ulm, the settlers of Ply- mouth formed a militia. When the Civil War started, Plymouth paid its volunteers a $25 bounty to enlist. At about this time, PioneerPlanet - Plymouth J-1 BREAKING STORIES ►NEWS 110 -SPORTS 10 -BUSINESS PIONEE Alphabetized list of communitiesYour Town Plymouth Rural rolling landscape gives way to rapid population, industrial growth By CAROL LACEY STAFF WRITER Plymouth's rolling landscape and open spaces help retain some of the rural atmosphere that originally attracted residents, but rapid population and industrial growth have made it the fourth largest city in Hennepin County. Page 1 of 3 History and Development: Wahpeton Sioux encamped at the north end of Medicine Lake long before adventurer, guide and trader Antoine LeCounte arrived here in 1848 on his travels to Red River country, carrying mail and trading goods to Indians. LeCounte returned in 1852 and built a cabin. New Englanders, New Yorkers and Canadians followed and started the town of Plymouth, namesake of a village left behind, on the northwest shores of what is now Parkers Lake. German and Scandinavian farmers developed the region as a prosperous agricultural community. Trains traveling westward came through in the 1880s, bringing with them tourists to vacation at Medicine Lake resorts. Not until the 1960s did fields of grain begin turning to fields of developments. Plymouth's pastoral phase began fading as industrial park development and completion of 1-494 brought people to Plymouth -- first to work, then to live. Newcomers then found they could buy a big lot and build rather inexpensively. Those days are long past. With population more than tripling since 1970, Plymouth is running out of room, particularly within the municipal service boundaries, where 80-85 percent of land has been developed. .../plymouth2.htm&NS-query=Plymouth&NS-search-type=NS-BOOLEAN-QUERY 11/18/98 I IVI Iri%,II I%AI Iv. . .r...--... . _k:J_ - v. v About 3,000 Plymouth acres remain outside the sewer -service line, some in agriculture. But, one by one, farmers are selling off their acreages. And, as thousands of new residents -- 10,000 since 1990 -- move in to homes along cul de sacs up and down Plymouth's hills and valleys, they gnaw away at the rural feeling that drew many residents to Plymouth. The green won't go completely, though. In 1995 Plymouth bought four major stretches of open space to preserve indefinitely. Progress on a new city center area also signals the citification of Plymouth. It now includes city hall, a county library branch, a recreation complex and a senior citizen subsidized -care center. A 12 -theater movie complex, bank and shopping center are in the plans. Until recently, growth projections indicated Plymouth might become a Bloomington of the northwest Twin Cities, with an ultimate population of 95,000. But such optimism has been trimmed considerably. Now the city anticipates a peak population in the low 70,OOOs. Housing: With little space served by city sewer and water left in Plymouth, land and housing prices are moving up. By 1980, Plymouth had the fourth highest median home value among Minnesota cities with a population over 10,000, and that distinction continues. Home sale prices range from the mid-$50,OOOs to mid-$500,OOOs, with a median of $187,000 and average of $208,258, higher than those of its neighbors. Plymouth has a good diversity of housing styles: townhomes, apartments and single family homes, with about three-fourths of its housing owner - occupied. Its supply of affordable housing, particularly rental housing, is limited, however. Only 15 percent of city's rental housing is considered affordable by Metropolitan Council standards, far less than the 35 to 41 percent of affordable rental housing in other northwestern suburbs. But the city has been assisting private efforts to renovate older housing stock. And its subsidized senior housing, built with local property taxes and no public grants, makes It possible for people to stay In their community when they no longer want to deal with maintaining a home. Jobs/Economy: Industrial park development in the 1960s brought people to Plymouth to work. The city's easy access continues to draw major industries to Plymouth, providing a diverse economic base and up to 40,000 local jobs. As a result, more workers commute in than out of Plymouth. .../plymouth2.htm&NS-query=Plymouth&NS-search-type=NS-BOOLEAN-QUERY 11/18/98 �T� bob -I"ob . 77Z:Ooolr E-' A 00 00 00 00 00 00 C. T 0. T T ONO,�110r-00 .-- N N 00 00 00 00 00 00 T 91 T T T r N N ll�t O 01 O O*N •-+ N O 00 00 00 00 00 00 O� T T 91 T T l� l- Q\ M It N 0 0 — N O O 0 0 0 6 N 00 00 00 00 00 00 O O N O .b v� co a�1-4 0 _ CA O y -3 ° Cd ti F.4 U) H x 0 Gil CA 0 '• + --� Aa�tiv�w a 0 o cd a��0xc7a 4 vi �6 t� 00 0� � �o 1110 o Youth Advisory Council Minutes of Meeting November 9, 1998 Present: all members and the alternate member were present. Council member Judy Johnson convened the meeting and asked all to introduce themselves. Park and Recreation Director Eric Blank was present to discuss the plans for the Activity Center/Field House project now being designed. There was considerable discussion about the history of the project, its intended uses, the design of the upstairs rooms, the game room area, the type of turf, the project schedule, and the name of the center, and other related items. One proposed name for the center was "Plymouth Pavillion." In organizational matters, the council decided to wait two or three meetings before electing a chair and vice -chair so members could get to know each other better first. The council agreed to meet every other week on Mondays at 7:00 p.m in the West Medicine Lake Room of City Hall. Members requested that a roster and a schedule of meetings be provided to them. Communicating the work of the council was also discussed, including adding the council's activities to the City's web page. Judy Johnson also invited the members to form liaisons with other City committees and commissions. The council agreed that the topics for the next meeting should include: Rights of people upon reaching 18 years old Curfew law information Accessibility of youth to cigarettes and liquor DARE program The Chief and the school liaison officers will be invited. The next meeting was set for November 23, 1998 at 7:00 p.m. DRAFT CITY OF PLYMOUTH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 10, 1998 MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Mike Stulberg, Commissioners Allen Ribbe, Jeff Thompson (arrived at 7:15 p.m.), Roger Berkowitz, Bob Stein and John Stoebner MEMBERS ABSENT: Commissioner Kim Koehnen STAFF PRESENT: Director Anne Hurlburt, Planning Supervisor Barbara Senness, Planner Shawn Drill, Water Resource Engineer Shane Missaghi, Public Works Director Fred Moore and Clerical Supervisor Denise Hutt 1. CALL TO ORDER: 2. PUBLIC FORUM: 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: MOTION by Commissioner Stein, seconded by Commissioner Stoebner recommending approval of the October 13, 1998 and October 27, 1998 Planning Commission Minutes. Vote. 4 Ayes on the October 13, 1998 Minutes. (Commissioner Berkowitz abstained.) Vote. 3 Ayes on the October 27, 1998 Minutes. (Commissioner Ribbe and Chairman Stulberg abstained.) MOTION carried unanimously. 5. CONSENT AGENDA: 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS: A. ASSOCIATION FREE LUTHERAN BIBLE SCHOOL. (98163) Chairman Stulberg introduced the request by the Association Free Lutheran Bible School for Rezoning from RSF-1 (Single Family Detached 1) to PUD (Planned Unit Development), Preliminary Plat and PUD General Plan for the property located at 3110 East Medicine Lake Boulevard. Community Development Director Hurlburt explained the procedures for the item and explained what has happened on the application up to this point. She said that the City Council has not acted on the reguiding, and it is not before the Planning Commission DRAFT Planning Commission Minutes November 10, 1998 Page #233 tonight. She stated that what is before the Planning Commission is the request for rezoning to PUD, Preliminary Plat and PUD General Plan. The PUD gives the City a lot more control. She explained that when the application goes to the City Council, the reguiding will be brought back and have to be acted on first. If the City Council approves the reguiding, they then may approve the PUD. If they deny the reguiding, then the other components of the application will be denied with the exception of the Preliminary Plat. Director Hurlburt stated that a property owner has the right to make application for something and it is not unusual for the Planning Commission and City Council to act on an application in stages if proposed that way by the applicant. Director Hurlburt said that the ultimate recommendation is conditional upon what the City Council's decision on the reguiding application. Planner Drill gave an overview of the November 6, 1998 staff report. Planner Drill noted a change to the PUD General Plan Resolution stating that Condition #7 shall state "The bible school shall not conduct year-round classes." Chairman Stulberg introduced Tonnes Pollestad, the petitioner. Pastor Pollestad stated that they are presenting a different rezoning application based on the recommendation from the City Council. He said that the proposed plan should be in compliance with what the City Council has directed them to do. Pastor Pollestad explained that they have gone through a long process including various meetings held with the neighbors and City staff. Pastor Pollestad stated that the revised plan includes a reduction in the number of students; elimination of the auto mechanics training facility; reduction in the number of married student housing units; new lighting fixtures; and, a break up of the large three story building into a number of two-story buildings which would be smaller in size and spread out more over the site, and have a residential character. Pastor Pollestad added that the buildings would be 25 to 30 feet in height. Chairman Stulberg introduced Scott Roberts of Genesis Architect, representing the petitioner. Mr. Roberts presented graphics of the existing site. He pointed out the existing parking spaces, noting that there currently isn't any screening. Mr. Roberts also presented the proposed initial phase site plan. Chairman Stulberg introduced Dan Parks of McCombs, Franks Roos Associates, representing the petitioner. Mr. Parks stated that all of the drainage on site would be treated on site by treatment ponds located on the southwest and southeast corners of the site. Mr. Parks commented that the proposed plan has been approved by the watershed district. He said that the existing sanitary sewer lines will be extended and the water main will be looped through the entire project. Mr. Parks said that the applicant is proposing both deciduous and coniferous trees for the project. Mr. Roberts said that the current lighting meets the City Code, but has been annoying to DRAFT Planning Commission Minutes 1- L) November 10, 1998 Page #234 the residents, thus as part of the PUD, the applicant is proposing new light fixtures that would measure .4 foot candles and .0 foot candles at the property line for the majority of the lights, which would minimize or eliminate the glare altogether. Mr. Roberts stated that the parking setback is further than what is required by the ordinance. He said that they have proposed increasing the screening with berms, as well as plantings. Mr. Roberts presented a computer model animation from three different areas from the southeastern portion of the site and one from the northeastern portion of the site. Mr. Roberts stated that they are adding almost twice the number of trees over what would be removed from the perimeter. The applicant would relocate the volleyball court from the perimeter to an interior location to create more buffering from the neighbors. Mr. Roberts said that the hilltop would be cut down to allow the gymnasium to be sunk down further. Mr. Roberts presented an artist rendering of the gymnasium and student center, and elevations for the married student housing and dormitory buildings. Pastor Pollestad commented that they feel that they have taken into account the issues raised by the City Council, staff and neighbors and have incorporated those needs and concerns into their proposal. Pastor Pollestad recognized that there are some of the neighbors' issues that they have not been able to resolve to the neighbors' satisfaction. Commissioner Ribbe asked what the elevation of the building is from computer animation #2. Mr. Roberts stated that it is 18 feet to the eaves, 28 feet to the peak. Commissioner Ribbe asked how much berm the applicant is proposing. Mr. Roberts replied that the elevation would be raised from 956 feet to 964 feet. Commissioner Ribbe asked what the size of the trees would be at maturity. Mr. Roberts answered 15 feet based on a 10- to 15 -year growth cycle. Commissioner Thompson asked if the applicant only depicted the removal of existing trees for animation purposes only. Mr. Roberts replied affirmatively. Chairman Stulberg opened the public hearing. Chairman Stulberg introduced a letter dated November 10, 1998 from Mavis Showalter of 10425 32"d Avenue North stating she is in favor of the proposed application. Chairman Stulberg introduced Stephen Comils of 10420 31 S` Avenue. Mr. Comils stated that the site is not an appropriate location for what is being proposed. He stated that his concerns center around the impact of the reguiding and rezoning and what subsequent massive development will ensue. He stated he is concerned with the lake and wetlands, and the overall look and feel of the neighborhood. Mr. Comils wondered what kind of impact the increased traffic and parking lots will have on their property values and to what extent their quality of life will be compromised. DRAFT -� Planning Commission Minutes November 10, 1998 Page #235 Chairman Stulberg introduced Ralph Shapiro of 10520 3151 Avenue. Dr. Shapiro commented that he doesn't think that the notes from the June 11, 1998 meeting reflect what happened from a neighborhood standpoint. Dr. Shapiro explained that the neighbors didn't respond because they weren't give enough time and didn't have adequate neighborhood representation. He said that the neighborhood did draft their response and presented that to the bible school. He said that none of the items were incorporated into the proposed PUD. Dr. Shapiro stated that many residents that built after 1973 were under the assurance and comfort of the current guiding and zoning with a trust that the City had made, and a change at this point would break that trust. Dr. Shapiro believed that people that live around the property should have a say in what happens. Dr. Shapiro stated that of the 27 homes that surround the site, 21 of the owners are against the proposal and three are in favor of the proposal. Dr. Shapiro stated that the Commission should look at this plan as if a developer was coming in with nothing else on the site. He said that the proposal is a massive scale of development which is out of portion to the site. Chairman Stulberg introduced Steve Kleineman of 3010 Trenton Lane. Mr. Kleineman stated that the area of concern is the area within the proposed loop which is about 850 feet across. Mr. Kleineman explained that Target Greatland is 450 wide and if you put two Target Greatlands together, it would be about the same as the 850 feet. He said that Target Greatland is 24.8 feet high, which is similar to what is being proposed. The south side of the site slopes down which means that the proposed buildings would appear more significant than along the north side of the property. Mr. Kleineman stated that grading on the site is taking place right up to the property line, and all the trees within it will be gone. He said that they may be able to save some of the trees, but it looks like most will have to be reforested. Mr. Kleineman did not think that the affect of the berm will be as significant as what was shown in the animation, as it will take a great deal of time for the trees to mature and planting material would be inadequate. Chairman Stulberg introduced Vic Sandler of 3010 East Medicine Lake Boulevard. Mr. Sandler stated that most of the neighbors oppose the proposal because of traffic, noise and the buildings would be an eyesore. Mr. Sandler said that there would be absolutely no room for driver or pedestrian error on Medicine Lake Road. He said that there has never been a safety study of the roadway, and the City Council should not put the residents in jeopardy. Stephen Cornils of 10420 315` Avenue stated that the future of this property could be best handled by not allowing the rezoning. Chairman Stulberg introduced Paul Oppegard of 10724 32"d Avenue North. Mr. Oppegard stated that he is in favor of the expansion. He said that when he moved into the neighborhood there were gravel roads, trees were brush, and you could see a long way in DRAFT I �7b Planning Commission Minutes -L-) November 10, 1998 Page #236 many directions. Mr. Oppegard said that the land was purchased with the intent of expansion many years ago. Chairman Stulberg introduced Jim Martin of 10603 32"d Avenue North. Mr. Martin stated that he supports the revised plan. He said that the bible school has been wonderful neighbor for the last 30 years. Chairman Stulberg introduced Greg Cramer of 3020 Quaker Lane. Mr. Cramer stated that he opposes the proposal because it is compatible with a residential neighborhood. He said that while the bible school has been a good neighbor, he is concerned that the magnitude of growth will negatively impact the neighborhood. Chairman Stulberg introduced William Clelland of 2835 Revere Circle. Mr. Clelland stated that the proposal is incompatible with the neighborhood. He stated that he doesn't believe that the road can handle the additional traffic. Mr. Clelland said that with a bigger facility, there will be more frequent service deliveries to the site. The buildings are mammoth in size and he isn't convinced that the screening will be adequate even in 10 to 15 years. Mr. Clelland asked the Commission to vote in favor of Alternative B. Chairman Stulberg introduced Wallace Charles of 3150 East Medicine Lake Boulevard. Mr. Charles stated he has lived here for 42 years and has enjoyed the benefits of the bible school as a neighbor. Mr. Charles said that when a community changes the zoning ordinance, the properties are not compensated. Mr. Charles said that the City never compensated the bible school for the change that was made in the zoning ordinance. He stated that the school should be able to develop according to their previously approved master plan, even though the zoning ordinance has changed. Mr. Charles said that this type of growth should be encouraged in the City. Chairman Stulberg introduced Michael Goldman of 10325 32"d Avenue North. Mr. Goldman stated that the school was given a conditional use permit, and now they want to extend it. He said that the master plan has been changed more than once. Mr. Goldman did not personally feel that the City is obligated or responsible for financially rewarding the school as they were given what they asked for - a "conditional use." Mr. Goldman commented that people built homes in the area because the property was zoned residential. Mr. Goldman urged the Commission to keep the intent of the City Council pertaining to the conditional use permit. Chairman Stulberg introduced David Sherman of 3010 Quaker Lane. Mr. Sherman stated that he is concerned with the traffic and safety issues and is against the rezoning. Chairman Stulberg introduced Maurice Gavin, representing the petitioner. Mr. Gavin commented that maybe the City didn't take into account the needs of the individual uses DRAFT Planning Commission Minutes 1 J November 10, 1998 Page #237 such as the bible school when the zoning ordinance was changed. Mr. Gavin stated that significant time and money has been spent on this proposal. The bible school met with the neighbors early on in the process to receive their input. He said that the reason the buildings were broken up was because the neighbors asked if it could be done. Mr. Gavin commented that the proposed PUD allows them to grow as needed with a maximum limitation. Mr. Gavin stated that the bible school has met seven of the 10 issues raised by the neighborhood. Mr. Gavin said that the City Council indicated they were concerned what other uses could be put on the site if the bible school had to move. Mr. Gavin stated that here are some uses that could go in that would be disagreeable to the neighbors. Mr. Gavin commented that the bible school has operated in good faith. Chairman Stulberg introduced Mr. Blake Johnson of 2955 Quaker Lane. Mr. Johnson commended the school on what they have put together for the expansion plan, but stated that they failed to take into account the feelings of the neighborhood. Mr. Johnson stated that the neighbors don't want any expansion. Mr. Johnson asked if the Commission would like to live next to this site and have to put up with the noise of construction and the additional traffic. Dr. Shapiro stated that in 1973 the site was guided residential and somewhere between 1986 to 1996 it was guided PI, but there aren't really any records indicating why and when the change took place. He said that it is unclear if it was an error on the map or a change by the City. Dr. Shapiro said that while the buildings are broken up on the proposed plan, there is a massive number of buildings. Dr. Shapiro stated that the bible school's student numbers were decreased, but that they excluded the seminarians. Dr. Shapiro said that he is not opposed to expansion, but rather the size of the PUD. Dr. Shapiro stated that the proposed PUD would impact the neighborhood in a negative way. Mr. Gavin stated that the facility shall not have more than 375 students and seminarians combined as indicated in the approving PUD General Plan resolution. Chairman Stulberg closed the public hearing. Commissioner Thompson asked what the average height of a two story home in the area would be. Director Hurlburt stated that the height limit is 35 feet in a residential zoning district. Mr. Roberts stated that the homes north of the site are mostly single level homes which could be up to 20 feet in height and the homes on the south side are much larger ranging up to 35 feet in height. Commissioner Ribbe asked for an explanation on the zoning ordinance change that took place in 1996. Director Hurlburt explained that the City adopted a new zoning ordinance, zoning map and Land Use Guide Plan map. A change in state law required cities to have the zoning consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. She said that there wasn't previously DRAFT Planning Commission Minutes November 10, 1998 Page #238 a separate classification for public or institutional uses, and post secondary schools were no longer allowed by conditional use. Director Hurlburt stated that this property was zoned residential, but on some older land use maps it was colored green which was public use. In 1996, the City tried to put the each individual site into the same zoning classification as it was previously. Director Hurlburt said the application should be based on current ordinance and policies. She stated that the city is not required to compensate anyone when the zoning ordinance changes unless you take away all reasonable use of the property. Planning Supervisor Senness explained that the traffic classification is used uniformly by traffic engineers. Director Hurlburt added that it is based on A through F, with "F" being a failure and "A" being the best. Commissioner Stein asked how many of the students attending the bible college are from the Plymouth area. Chairman Stulberg introduced Jim Johnson, dean of, the bible school. Mr. Johnson answered that they don't have any students from Plymouth at this time. Commissioner Stoebner asked for an explanation of the 1973 rezoning and wanted to know what would have been required to expand the school once it was rezoned to R-lA. Director Hurlburt stated that it is unclear what initiated the rezoning. It was probably a concern that there would be a proposal of apartments on the property, not that the school would expand. She said that the school could have expanded with a conditional use. MOTION by Commissioner Stein, seconded by Commissioner Ribbe recommending denial of Rezoning of land located at 3110 East Medicine Lake Boulevard and adopting Findings of Fact. Commissioner Stein said that the property was zoned residential and was allowed as a conditional use to build in accordance with the master plan and now they want to expand beyond the master plan. Commissioner Stein said that the proposal is just too big for the site and traffic is an issue on Medicine Lake Boulevard where the street is much narrower. Commissioner Stein stated that he didn't know where vehicles will park in the winter time when there are events at the school. He said that 15 years is a long time to wait for the trees to mature for the screening. Commissioner Stein stated that the increase of impervious surface has not been allowed recently on other applications and he can't support this one. Commissioner Stein commented that an increase of this size is detrimental to the surrounding neighborhood. Commissioner Stein said that the bible school doesn't serve the City of Plymouth as there are no students from Plymouth, so they could move to another location. DRAFT Planning Commission Minutes --� November 10, 1998 Page #239 Commissioner Thompson stated that he is still offended that the bible school has to go through reguiding and rezoning. He said that the applicant has never built out to the master plan. The traffic study said the proposal would be appropriate and the Commission has to trust that. He stated that according to the applicant, the trees would not be clear-cut. Commissioner Thompson stated that if you include the property the bible school gave to the City along the lake, there probably would not be an issue of impervious surface coverage. The treatment ponds make this much better than the current situation. Commissioner Thompson said that there is no conditional use permit in front of the Commission. There is a concept in legal circles called environmental racism. Commissioner Thompson said that the whole "not in my back yard" situation offends him. He stated that he is not Lutheran and he doesn't care about the bible school's mission, only the applicant's rights. He said that the applicant has tried to compromise and change their plans, and now the neighbors have changed their comments and concerns. Commissioner Thompson stated that he is in favor of the rezoning application. Commissioner Stoebner stated that he concurred with the majority of Commissioner Thompson's comments. Commissioner Ribbe said that he would love to see an expansion of the function of the school, but can't accept the idea that this is the right place for it. He stated that he doesn't think that the Commission does the school or the neighborhood any good by voting for the rezoning. Roll Call Vote. 4 Ayes. MOTION approved on a 4-2 Vote. (Commissioners Thompson and Stoebner voted Nay.) MOTION by Chairman Stulberg , seconded by Commissioner Stoebner recommending approval of a Preliminary Plat for the Association Free Lutheran Bible School for property located at 3110 East Medicine Lake Boulevard. Chairman Stulberg said that the Preliminary Plat can stand on its own. Roll Call Vote. MOTION approved unanimously. MOTION by Commissioner Stein, seconded by Commissioner Berkowitz recommending denial of a PUD General Plan for the Association Free Lutheran Bible School for property located at 3110 East Medicine Lake Road. Roll Call Vote. 4 Ayes. MOTION approved on a 4-2 Vote. (Commissioners Thompson and Stoebner voted Nay.) Chairman Stulberg called a recess at 9:27 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:40 p.m. 7. NEW BUSINESS: DRAFT Planning Commission Minutes November 10, 1998 Page #240 A. CITY OF PLYMOUTH (98114) Director Fred Moore gave an overview of the November 5, 1998 staff report. Director Moore stated that $750,000 is spent on street related issues on an annual basis. He presented new/additional expenditures to the implementation plan: Studies -$578,000; DNR/Plant Management $150,000; Drainage/Pond Inspection Program - $196,000; Alternative Landscape Monitoring - $60,000; Document Existing Treatment Capacity - $200,000; Pond Maintenance Access $200,000. Subtotal - $1,384,000 Construction - $2,270,000. Commissioner Thompson asked if it is legally possible to retroactively require buffers along shorelands. Director Hurlburt responded that she didn't think there is anything in the plan that will address that. She said that staff determined through the process of developing the wetland ordinance that you can't apply buffers retroactively. She stated that she didn't know of any community that has tried to require retro buffering. Director Moore said that it may be possible to establish some financial incentives for people to do this. Commissioner Berkowitz asked if the City has thought about providing buffer monuments and technical assistance for voluntary buffering. Director Hurlburt replied that staff is already providing technical assistance. Planning Supervisor Senness stated that the materials for buffering should be professionally applied in order to work which would raise the cost to homeowners. Director Hurlburt noted that one thing the staff uses to encourage buffers is the problem with geese complaints. Water Resource Engineer Missaghi commented that he also works with various homeowners associations. Commissioner Stein asked if any have actually implemented restoration of a buffer. Water Resource Engineer Missaghi replied affirmatively. Commissioner Ribbe stated his concern for implementing the plan until funding sources have been determined. He said that there may be a need for a commitment from the taxpayers in order to make this realistic to achieve the goals of the plan. Director Moore commented that there is a section in the plan that gives several financing sources, which will have to be addressed after the plan is adopted. He said that when the plan is adopted, staff will then know how aggressive it should be handled and can address the finance issues over 10 years. Commissioner Ribbe noted that 40 percent of the projected cost is for expert labor. Director Moore commented that a lot of it is studies and staff labor, but until a detailed study is done on a watershed by watershed district basis, you don't know how much needs to be done. He said that this is an on-going plan that will continue even after 10 years. He added that the City is required by state law to address water quality and water quantity. DRAFT �, 7 1 Planning Commission Minutes --� November 10, 1998 Page #241 Commissioner Stein asked if the plan would come back to the Commission periodically for review. Director Moore replied that the plan would come back formally as part of the Comprehensive Plan. He said that the plan will need to be updated as watershed plans are updated. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Stoebner recommending approval of a Comprehensive Plan Amendment for the City of Plymouth for the Water Resources Management Plan. MOTION to Amend by Commissioner Berkowitz, seconded by Commission Thompson to remove the recommendation for the ban on city-wide phosphorus fertilizers. Commissioner Berkowitz stated that the didn't think an overall ban is the way to go. He said that banning the sale of phosphorus fertilizers in Plymouth would have a better affect. Commissioner Ribbe stated people can still drive to other cities for sources of fertilizer. He said that the symbolism of a ban sends a forceful message that people should quit using something that isn't necessary. Commissioner Stein commented that the ban on the sale would at least start the learning process. Commissioner Stoebner suggested that the language is broad enough that it could mean the use or sale, and that the City Council should grapple with that issue. He said as worded it would be appropriate. Commissioner Thompson suggested that the wording state ban sale or use of fertilizer. Commissioner Berkowitz commented that with the items underway through the legislature or the Metropolitan Council, maybe the City should just focus on educational issues and see what happens. Roll Call Vote on MOTION to Amend. 1 Aye. MOTION failed on a 1-5 Vote. (Commissioners Ribbe, Stein, Thompson, Stoebner and Chairman Stulberg voted Nay.) MOTION to Amend by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Berkowitz to change the wording to the "ban on the sale or use of phosphorous base fertilizers." Commissioner Stoebner commented that the City Attorney said there would be a problem with a ban on the sale. Commissioner Thompson said it would be the same problem as DRAFT Planning Commission Minutes November 10, 1998 Page #242 banning the use, but it would have more of an affect on retailers. Commissioner Stoebner said that anything that would have a chilling affect on the sale would be good. Commissioner Berkowitz stated he would support the amendment. Roll Call Vote. 5 Ayes. MOTION approved on a 5-1 Vote. (Chairman Stulberg voted Nay.) MOTION to Amend by Commissioner Thompson to add further consideration of the feasibility of the retroactive requirement of buffers on lake shore properties. MOTION to Amend died for a lack of a second. MOTION to Amend by Commissioner Stein, seconded by Commissioner Berkowitz to offer incentive to homeowners to provide buffers. Chairman Stulberg said that the plan already basically intends the incentive. Commissioner Stein said that the cost of the incentive would reduce the overall cost in the long run. Commissioner Thompson said that it is redundant to what is in the plan. He said that he is afraid that if it is strictly voluntary homeowners would be just buffering areas around swamps. Commissioner Berkowitz said that maybe assistance from the City would've helped the dilemma that the Fosters' and Berglands' faced. Commissioner Stoebner said that he would support the motion. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. MOTION to Amend by Commissioner Ribbe, seconded by Commissioner Thompson to propose that additional wording be added "due to the scope of the plan and the commitments that would be necessary to achieve the goals the Planning Commission further recommends the determination of a reasonable estimate of the implementation costs. Such costs should include the costs of land acquisition, controlling volume control of natural waterways, and maintaining existing waterways." Commissioner Ribbe said that before the City Council determines the final plan they should have a handle on how to finance the plan and obtain the resources to meet those costs. Chairman Stulberg said he would vote against the motion as he believed the plan has to happen anyhow and he didn't want to hold it up waiting to determine the financing portion of the plan. He said that the plan will be a moving target that will continue to change and will have to be monitored by staff. Chairman Stulberg stated that he would support the recommendation, but not attached to the resolution. Commissioner Thompson said that it is a good idea for a separate recommendation to the City Council. Commissioner Stein asked if the financing portion could be decided before the plan is adopted in August, 1999 and reported back to the Planning Commission. Director Moore stated $8 million is a reasonable implementation of the plan. Commissioner Ribbe said DRAFT Planning Commission Minutes �— November 10, 1998 Page #243 that there are portions of the $8 million that are too low that will disappear any time a project comes along. He stated that the $120,000 for project acquisition seems low and that it wouldn't go very far. Director Moore explained that most of the intended acquisition is in the undeveloped part of the City and will be done in conjunction with development. Commissioner Ribbe stated that the only significant dollar figures for construction is related to Parkers Lake. There seem to be big gaps in the intent and how it is going to get done. The City Council has to be willing to get their arms around the entire project and be able to come up with the finances. Chairman Stulberg commented that staff is saying that their estimates are realistic. Commissioner Ribbe said that there are some items that could be big ticket items, but they don't seem to be dealt with in the implementation. Roll Call Vote on MOTION to Amend. 2 Ayes. MOTION failed on a 2-4 Vote. (Commissioners Stein, Stoebner, Thompson and Chairman Stulberg voted Nay.) Roll Call Vote on Main MOTION. 6 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. Chairman Stulberg commended the Environmental Quality Committee and staff for their work on the project. He said that he encourages the current City Council to deal with the issue and not wait for the new Council as they have not been involved with the process to date. Commissioner Ribbe concurred, adding that the current City Council has the knowledge to deal with the plan. 8. NEW BUSINESS: A. CITY OF PLYMOUTH Director Hurlburt gave an overview of the November 5, 1998 memo. She said that the Commission will set the 1999 Planning Commission Meeting Schedule at their first meeting in January. MOTION by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Stoebner to cancel the December 22, 1998 Planning Commission Meeting. Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. MOTION by Commissioner Stoebner, seconded by Commissioner Thompson to adjourn. Vote. 6 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 p.m. aJ ��cOKIM2 November 19, 1998 Mayor Joy Tierney 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mayor Tierney: I am writing you in advance of our December 2nd City Council meeting to review the request for a PUD on the 3120 East Medicine Lake Road site owned by the Association Free Lutheran Bible School. I believe that it is time to move to the conclusive step of approving this request for expansion under a PUD. Despite the comments made by some neighbors and the Planning and Zoning Commissions repeated denials of the Schools' plans, I favor their project. As an area voter and resident I am very concerned about losing such a good neighbor to either muilti-family town homes or social service tenants. The claims about environmental impact from the site seem to be addressed by their engineers. I feel that a few disgruntled neighbors have simply used "scare tactics" to solicit a negative response from other area residents. I agree with Jeff Thompson's comment that this appears to be a discriminatory case of "not in my backyard". If we lose the Bible School, then what will the dissenting neighbors think about more, less affluent families, more noise, more traffic, and a greater impact on property values? We all bought homes knowing that they were in our backyards and my understanding is that their 30 -year old master plan clearly hasn't been exceeded. I also would like the opportunity to speak with you directly by telephone to re -assert the importance of the passage of this project in early December. I can be reached at 559-5139. Thank you for your consideration in this matter. Sincerely, Mary Einarson 13915 60`h Avenue North Plymouth, MN 55446 November 18, 1998 Jim Touve 17216 Petersburg Road Eden Prairie, MN 55346-3452 Dear Mr. Touve: T It has come to our attention that you recently acquired the Little Peninsula on Medicine Lake from Homestead Village. Based on a recent discussion I had with Paul Crabtree, it appears that there may be some misunderstanding about potential development options for the Little Peninsula. The purpose of this letter is to provide you with some general, information concerning this property. The property consists of a single lot of record, Lot 1, Block 1, Sunrise Bay Estates. The property is zoned RSF-4, which allows single family homes. Townhomes, condominiums, and apartment buildings are prohibited in this zoning district. It is my understanding from talking with Mr. Crabtree that the property was transferred to you with a deed restriction stating that there shall be no more than three homes on the property. The City's Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations would not permit the subdivision of this lot because the property does not front on a public street. Therefore, you could not construct more than one home or subdivide the property to create additional lots. Additionally, before you could construct a home on the property you would need to demonstrate that the property is buildable based on City requirements and other applicable state and federal regulations. As you are aware from our previous discussions, the Little Peninsula has severe limitations for development. Of primary concern is the large amount of protected wetland and floodplain. This property is better described as an island because part of the property is below the high water elevation of the lake and is therefore considered part of the lake, or the lake bottom. The upland portion of the property cannot be reached without crossing what is considered part of the lake. The placement of any fill or material in the lake, wetlands, or floodplain is prohibited, unless you apply for and receive approvals from the appropriate governmental agencies. Finally, the Zoning Ordinance prohibits outside storage on the property, including equipment, materials, vehicles, etc. The Zoning Ordinance also prohibits sheds, storage buildings and similar structures unless there is a home on the property. PLYMOUTH ABeauti (P(ace?nLiuc 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000 ax�, ,Mr," www.d.plymouth.mn.us Mr. Jim Touve November 18, 1998 Page 2 Because you participated in many of the discussions between the City and Homestead Village, you are obviously aware of these restrictions. However, the City wants to make sure that you have the necessary background information, and that there is no misunderstanding of what the City requirements are concerning the development of this property. Given the severe limitations to development on the Little Peninsula, Homestead Village had offered to donate the property to the City for parkland/open space. The City agreed to accept the property under certain conditions. These conditions required the property owner to 1) submit a Phase I environmental report, 2) remove any debris from the property, and 3) provide the City with an access easement to the property. The City is still interested in accepting the property under these conditions. We would be happy to meet with you to discuss this opportunity and to further discuss the conditions under which the City would accept the property. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 509-5457. Sincerely, John Rask, Planner Community Development c: Dwight Johnson, City Manager Anne Hurlburt, Community Development Director Eric Blank, Parks and Recreation Director CITY OF PLYMOUTH AGENDA REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 2,1998 1. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 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 4.1 Oaths of Office -- Firefighters 4.2 Recognition of retiring Firefighter 4.3 Recognition of graduates of the first Plymouth Citizens Academy 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. 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. * Items require 5 affirmative votes of the City Council for approval DRAFT 11/20/98 11:25 AM 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING -' December 2, 1998 Page 2 6.1 Approve proposed City Council Minutes 6.2 Approve Disbursements 6.3 Approve Application for Lawful Gambling Exemption for Plymouth Creek Elementary PTA 6.4 Approve Don Myron Settlement 6.5 Deny Variances for development of a non—conforming lot, a 16.2 -foot front yard setback and a 10 -foot side yard setback for property located at 305 Quantico Lane North. Don Myron. (98155) (postponed from 11/4/98) 6.6 Approve Amendment to Contract with Northwest Associated Consultants for Planning Services. PUBLIC HEARINGS 7.1 8. GENERAL BUSINESS 8.1 Reconsider Kingsview Lane Improvement Project and set Public Hearing 8.2 Association Free Lutheran Bible School *8.2.1 Land Use Guide Plan Amendment from LA -1 (Living Area 1) to P -I (Public/Semi-Pubic/Institutional. (98042) *8.2.1 Rezoning from RSF-1 (Single Family District 1) to PUD (Planned Unit Development), Preliminary Plat and PUD General Plan. (98163) 8.3 Approve Amendment to Development Agreement for Tax Increment Finance District 7-4 — Plymouth Technology Park (Hoyt). 9. REPORTS AND STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS * Items require 5 affirmative votes of the City Council for approval REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING December 2, 1998 Page 3 9.1 Establish date for Board and Commission Interviews 10. ADJOURNMENT * Items require 5 affirmative votes of the City Council for approval DATE: November 20, 1998 TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: Dwight D. Johnson, City Manager SUBJECT: Summary of Events this week Budget. With the lower than expected interest rate on the Activity Center bonds this week, there is a savings of nearly $7,000 in the proposed bond levy for next year. While our first thought was to simply reduce the levy for next year by this much, various council members have expressed interest in upgrading our communications to our citizens. We have some initial ideas that would improve both the Plymouth News and the Recreation brochure, but some additional funding would be needed. Therefore, we plan to add the savings to the City's communications budget to allow some of these ideas to be implemented during the next year. If any council members would be concerned about this proposal, please give me a call. County golf course proposal near Pike Lake. As this week's Sun Sailor indicates, the County is considering a golf facility in the County owned land north of County Road 10 near Pike Lake. The facility reportedly would consist of an "executive" or short nine hole course plus golf instructional facilities. It would be oriented toward lower income persons. New Hope officials have expressed opposition because they feel it may hurt their golf course. Ginny Black attended the Park Board's meeting Thursday night to express her concern about the project as well. The Park Board voted to proceed forward with planning and design Thursday night. Any such facilities would need a conditional use approval by the City. Kingsview Lane paving. This is the gravel road we spent a considerable amount of time with at the last Council meeting. The biggest issue is the size of the proposed assessments. Fred and I have discussed assessments and will be considering ideas for how the assessments could be lowered somewhat. There may be some unique aspects of this project that make the costs higher than normal. Saundra Spigner has asked that this matter be reconsidered at the next Council meeting. This can be done, but we cannot order the project until another public hearing is advertised and held. Fred and I hope to have some more information about possible modifications to the assessments by this next meeting.