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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 09-25-1998f SEPTEMBER 259 1998 SPC'DNIING���G►�����E.11T 1. COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE. NOTE: Ward 1 Councilmember Tim Bildsoe meets with residents and receives their comments in the Administration Library, beginning at 6:00 PM before each Regular Council meeting. SEPTEMBER 28, 7:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING TOPIC: ACTIVITY CENTERIFIELD HOUSE Council Chambers OCTOBER 7, 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, Council Chambers OCTOBER 14, 7:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING WITH HUMAN SERVICES AGENCIES Public Safety Training Room 2. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 7: 00 PM HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION, (M-2) Medicine Lake Room 3. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 7: 00 PM SEVEN PONDS EXPANSION PROJECT NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING, REQUESTED BY CO UNCILMEMBER JOHNSON, Council Chambers 4. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 7: 00 PM PRAC, Council Chambers 5. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2: 00 PM PLYMOUTH ON PARADE 6. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, Noon -4:00 PM FIRE DEPARTMENT OPEN HOUSE, Fire Station 111 CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO Page 2 SEPTEMBER 25, 1998 ' A 7. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 7:00 PM LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS— PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES FORUMLIVE ON CABLE TV, Council Chambers September, October, and November calendars are attached. (M-7) aRyovRrluovr ala .o P ...z 1. NEWS ARTICLES, RELEASES, PUBLICATIONS, ETC. a) Association of Metropolitan Municipalities FAX News. (I -]a) b) Notice from MediaOne that upgrade of the cable television system will begin on September 28. (I -1b) 2. CHARTER COMMISSION APPOINTMENT -- Attached is notification from Chief District Judge Daniel H. Mabley of the appointment of Thomas E. Murphy Jr. to the Plymouth Charter Commission, filling the seat vacated by Virgil Schneider. (1-2) 3. MINUTES a) Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit August 26 meeting. (I -3a) b) I-494 Corridor Commission/JPO August 6 meeting. (I --3b) 4. STAFF REPORTS a) Memo from City Manager Dwight Johnson concerning a winter clothing drive sponsored by the Plymouth Business Council. (I --4a) S. CITIZEN COMMUNICATIONS POLICY—CORRESPONDENCE A status report on the most recent correspondence is attached. (1-5) 6. CORRESPONDENCE a) Letter to Community Development Director Anne Hurlburt from Kevin Leuer regarding the proposed Moen Leuer development along Medina Road. (1--6a 7. COUNCIL ITEMS a) Draft Agenda for October 7, 1998 Regular Council Meeting. (T 7a) M -A Plymouth Human Rights Commission October 1, 1998, 7:00 p.m. Agenda Call to Order II. Approve Agenda III. Approve September Minutes IV. Business Items a. Plymouth on Parade—October 10, 1998 b. Annual Plymouth Human Rights Award—discuss process c. Student Interviews—discuss process V. For Information a. Report on State Conference b. Report on Regional HRC Meeting c. Letter from Becky Wheeler VI. 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M- 7 - CIS 00 vrom, ANNA i o: uvNpht Johnson Dale: 9/18198 Time: 3:52:18 PM Pape 2 of 2 AM.M FAX NEWS AMMfa�de�irfarrdBerc�r�lyt�a�AM�ldry mangafofdfninirbaten Rein*xmioif iore�eedradefhaied withmayo�, rsundi�d ftaft ordetoteirofPi7difddtedit®fimpff ralltllwfa,ryiffaa ©l111dBht7y98AMM 74S&*fffI01AYffl1eaet ft fay, mpol,14f &A14=001176 07 am C-011ation of tletropoiitan Municipalities September 14-18, 1998 Metro issues discussion to highlight regional meeting Call now to make your reservation The AMM and the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC) are jointly sponsoring a metro regional meeting on Thursday, Sept. The highlight s meeting will be a discussion of the Metropolitan Council and related issues such as hous- ing, economic development and regional services. Met Council members and staff, as well as legislators, will lead the discussion -- but they could give way to the candidates for governor. All three major political candi- dates have been invited to participate in a metro issues forum. We should have confor- mation from the candidates by Monday, Sept. 21 if they will participate. This is an important meeting that we encourage all city managers, adminis- trators, councils, mayors and staff attend. Invitations were mailed to all metro cities earlier this month. We will let you know if the candidates' forum will take place. The R.S.V.P. cleadline has been extended to Monday, Sept. 21. If you plan to attend or you would like more information, please call Laurie Jennings at 651-215-4000 as soon as possible. ` I Roseville, MN 55113 Admanslrotion 611403.3133 I FAX 617 483.9184 Media®ne This u B.dbu.d. Thu it 1hr WOO. September 24, 1998 Dwight Johnson - City Manager City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mr. Johnson: MediaOne is pleased to announce that beginning Monday, September 28, 1998, we will begin the process of upgrading the cable television system as per our franchise commitment. We will begin the process of replacing the old-style tap pedestals with a new style pedestal. Tap pedestals are the malL green boxes typically found in the utility easements on every other lot comer. These boxes may be in the front yard or the back yard, but always within the utility easement. These pedestals enclose our service taps. Taps are the small pieces of equipment that transition our cable signal from the larger mainline cables to the smaller drop cable which then transports service on into the home. The pedestal replacement project is a necessary first step of the upgrade process because eventually new slightly larger taps will be placed in the new pedestals. The 'slightly larger taps are required in order to transmit our expanded services, high speed data and telephony. Our customer service representatives will be notified in advance of work starting in any given city and will be prepared to answer any questions residents may have about the process. We would ask that you forward a copy of this letter to the departments which may have an interest in the project such as Public Works. In conjunction with the pedestal change out, our contract crews will also be placing the underground duct system which eventually carry our underground fiber network. This work consists of placing a 1 %Z " continuous conduit, usually in the street front utility easement at 24" minimum depth. This work is similar to the underground new build extensions we do each year. All of the underground duct placement is permitted with the appropriate city, county or state agency and all affected property owners receive door hangers pre -notifying them that this work will soon take place. A complete explanation sheet is attached for your reference. In the event you receive calls from residents, this information sheet should assist you in answering any questions. We have staff to answer any questions that come to us. While this process is NOT the re -building of our cable system but an upgrading of the current lines and equipment, providing information to the residents is an important part of the process. We would appreciate the opportunity to write an article in your city's newsletter to keep the residents informed. Should you receive calls from residents, you may refer them to our customer service line at 612-533-8020. Page 2 September 24, 1998 We look forward to beginning this work as it will mean new and exciting services for both the city and its residents. If you have any questions or wish to work with us regarding an article for your newsletter, please contact me at 651-486-3521. 1 look forward to hearing from you. "ncerel y Kathi Donnelly -Cohen Director - Government Relations cc: Kevin Griffin Tim Gavin September 18, 1998 TYPICAL QUESTIONS REGARDING MEDIAONE UPGRADE WORK There are workers in my yard. I did receive a work hanger but I already have cable (or I do not want cable). Why are they here? MediaOne is in the process of upgrading their cable system to offer more services as part of their commitment to the city. Changing out the pedestal in the easement will not require you to take service. Z. Does this mean that once the pedestal is replaced that I can order more channels and services? The pedestal change out is only in preparation for the eventual upgrade of electronic equipment. A new pedestal does not mean that new services are immediately available. It may be months before we activate that particular area. 3. How am I suppose to know when they will be in my neighborhood? Door hangers will be distributed prior to every home receiving a new pedestal. The door hanger will explain the process to the homeowner and hopefully keep calls to a minimum. 4, If service isn't available now, why are they doing this work? Because of frozen ground from November to April, the ped replacement and fiber duct placement program takes place in the frost free months since some hand digging around the pedestals is necessary and underground duct placement is more difficult in the winter months. In an effort to upgrade many miles of our system each month (even during the winter months) it is necessary to perform this pedestal work far in advance of the actual "splicing in" of the new electronic equipment inside the pedestal. This will allow our splicing crews to work continuously even through the winter months because the "new ped" will already be in place when they arrive at the site. 5. Will this work be done in the entire city, every neighborhood? Pedestals and fiber duct are only found in areas of underground cable plant which is about half of our total system miles. 6. 'r'!'ho do I call to find out information? Weekly updates of where this activity is taking place will be provided by the construction department to customer service representatives. They can be 2 September 18, 1998 y !6 reached by calling 612-533-8020, 24 hours a day. If you have a more specific ' question that cannot be answered by the customer service rep, you will be transferred to a project supervisor from the construction department. 7. How big are these new pedestals? The majority of existing tap pedestals are approximately six inches in diameter. The new style tap pedestals are approximately nine inches in diameter. These people and trucks do not appear to be MediaOne. Who are they? The pedestal change out program and the fiber duct placement program will be performed by MediaOne contractors. These contractors will be wearing ID badges while in the field and will have identification signs on their vehicles stating that they are contracted by MediaOne. If you have any questions, please feel free to call MediaOne directly. 9. The contractors may disturb my sod or the landscape I did around the old pedestal — who is going to IIx that? Calls from homeowners concerning restoration of sod or landscaping, etc. should be referred to customer service at 533-8020 and they will in turn refer them to the designated construction contact person for that particular arca. 3 TOTAL P.05 DANIEL H. MABLEY CHIEF JUDGE ST_1TI: OF MI\\ESOT:� FOURTI3 JUDICIAL DISTRICT HE_NNEPI\ COUNTY DISTRICT COURT Mr. Thomas E. Murphy, Jr. 4810 Orchid Lane North Plymouth, Minnesota 55446 RE: Plymouth Charter Commission Dear Mr. Murphy, C-1704 GOVERNMENT CENTER 300 SOUTH SIXTHzATLREEET MINNEAPgOL.JS';MINNE50TA 5487 612' 348-3561 %FAX 612; 348-2131 September 17, 1998 Enclosed is a copy of my Order appointing you as a member of the Charter Commission for the City of Plymouth. You will also find enclosed a written acceptance and oath of office which you should sign before a notary public and return to me. Under Minnesota Statutes Section 410.05, Subd.2, an appointee who neglects to return the oath and acceptance form within thirty (30) days will be deemed to have declined the appointment. Thank you for agreeing to serve on this important Commission. ,,,Sincerely, j w A`l c Daniel H. Mabley DHM\eb Enclosures c: Joy Tierney, Mayor Dwight D. Johnson, City Manager Roger Knutson, City Attorney Kathy Lueckert MINUTES PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT August 26, 1998 PRESENT Mike Cagley, Joe Edwards and Barb Roberts Representing Metro Transit - Sheri Gingerich Representing Laidlaw Transit Services, Inc. - Jim Baldwin and Bob Korbenski Representing the City of Plymouth - John Sweeney Consultant for Plymouth Metrolink - George Bentley Committee Secretary - Patty Hillstrom I. MEETING MINUTES The minutes for the July 22, 1998 meeting were approved as amended. Bob Korbenski, Transit Supervisor with Laidlaw Transit Services, Inc., introduced himself to the group. Everyone in attendance introduced themselves to Korbenski. Gingerich reported that Dana Rude has been transferred to the Reuter Garage and will probably be working with the Maple Grove service. Joann Smith, one of assistant managers at Metro Transit, Inc., will be handling customer service problems for the Plymouth transit system. Her number is 349-7331. II. RIDERSHIP INFORMATION 1993 - 1998 AND REVIEW OF RIDERSHIP STATISTICS FOR JULY 1998 George Bentley's Comments Ridership Graphs - System ridership is up this year by 8.4%, an average of 2,020 riders per month (about 85 per day). System ridership for July was up by 11% over July of 1997. Passengers Per Day - Plymouth Metrolink express ridership (Routes 91, 92 and 93) was up in May by 1.8 %, June was up by 9.7 % and July by 9 % over 1997 levels. Dial - A -Ride has increased by 10.7% so far this year with 400 more rides per month. June ridership is up by 16.5 % over 1997 and July is up by 20.8 % over 1997. Route 93 ridership was down from June by about 30 passengers per day, probably due to the Highway 169 construction. MINUTES - PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT August 26, 1998 Meeting Page 2 Monthly Cost Summary - These figures remain good for express services and are improved from last year for Dial -A -Ride. There was a regional spring ad campaign that ran from April through June that promoted regular route transit. Overall, ridership throughwit the system has been up as a result of the marketing campaign. III. IDENTIFICATION OF AREAS OF CONCERN AND/OR RECOMMENDATIONS Barb Roberts' Comments • Roberts' reported a comment from another rider that she really appreciates having the same driver all the time. They are happy with the driver of the Route 91C at 5:10 p.m. from downtown. The driver is very pleasant and helpful. • Roberts' asked Gingerich about the 7:30 a.m. bus running early in the morning. Gingerich asked the driver and he stated that he left on time. • Roberts inquired about traffic control at the intersection of Fernbrook Lane and 34' Avenue because of the difficulty in making a left turn onto Fernbrook Lane from 34' Avenue. Sweeney stated that traffic signals are plann-3 for that intersection in the future. Mike Cagley's Comments • Cagley stated that the Route 93 detour on Valley Forge Lane seems to be working and has not affected the timing of the route. He stated that work seems to be progressing slowly. Sweeney stated the rain has caused the roadwork to slow down and anticipates completion by the time there is snowfall. IV. IMPLEMENTATION OF LATER HOURS FOR REVERSE COMMUTE AND EXPRESS SERVICES John Sweeney's Comments A recommendation will go to the City Council on September 16, 1998 and if approved, the new service will start in December, 1998. N:\pw\Engineering\TRANSrrTACI\MINUTES\98\8.26.98.doe MINUTES - PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT August 26, 1998 Meeting Page 3 V. 3RD ANNUAL PLYMOUTH BUSINESS TRANSPORTATION FORUM George Bentley's Comments The forum was designed three years ago as a way of getting business people and the transit system together. Sweeney spoke at the forum about Plymouth Metrolink and gave an update on the job fair. Bruce Howard, from the Metropolitan Council spoke about employer/employee programs such as the Metro Pass Program and other programs. A presentation was given by the city engineer on future road construction projects. There was an open discussion on the needs of business' with second and third shift transportation being the overwhelming need. VI. STATUS REPORT ON PLYMOUTH FLYER SERVICE Jim Baldwin's Comments The Plymouth Flyer service is doing well and is starting to pick up after the loss of the student riders. Laidlaw has replaced dispatchers and is now fully staffed. VII. OTHER COMMENTS George Bentley's Comments • Bentley displayed a map and described the proposed changes to the Route 91 service. The purpose for change is to service the future park and ride sites on Cry. Rd. 9/Vicksburg Lane and at Cry. Rd. 6/Cry. Rd. 101. • A photo shoot will be done this week and Bentley encouraged members to sign the release if asked. Pictures of people with a bus are desired, rather than just the bus. • The Waterford Plaza Park and Ride site is still up in the air. The next PACT meeting will be held on September 23, 1998 at 7:00 p.m. in the Engineering Conference Room (Hadley Lake Room) on the lower level of the Plymouth City Hall. Respectfully, Patty Hillstrom Committee Secretary N:\pw\Engineering\TRANSITPACTMINUTES\98\8.2&98.doe I-494 Corridor Commission/JPO Meeting Minutes of Thursday, August 6,1998 (WrOpproved) I. Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 8:45 a.m. by Chair Ross Thorfinnson. Those in attendance were: Ross Thorfinnson, Eden Prairie City Council Lisa Raduenz, LJR, Inc. Leah Goldstein, LJR, Inc. Craig Larson, City of Edina Clarence Shalbetter, Metropolitan Council Len Simich, Southwest Metro John Melin, City of Richfield Jim Hovland, City of Edina Fran Hoffman, City of Edina Wayne Norris, MnDOT Connie Kozlak, Met Council Dave Lindahl, City of Eden Prairie Larry Lee, City of Bloomington Joy Tierney, City of Plymouth Russ Susag, City of Richfield Curt Gutoske, City of Minnetonka Ann Lenczewski, City of Bloomington Barb Senness, City of Plymouth Mike Opatz, City of Maple Grove Charles Honchell, City of Bloomington Richard Stehr, MnDOT Tom Johnson, Hennepin County II. Review of Minutes. Minutes from the June 10, 1998 meeting of the I-494 Corridor Commission were reviewed. Motion to approve the meeting minutes was made by Susag with a second by Lindahl. Motion carried unanimously. III. Other Business. Raduenz introduced Goldstein, a new employee of LJR, to the group. Goldstein reported about the Whitewater TMA Commuter Fair, which was held on July 22 and 23. There were approximately 600 attendees of this mobile presentation cooperatively staged with the assistance of Metro Commuter Services and VPSI. The Corridor Commission provided Dairy Queen Dilly Bars to those interested in the presentation, and Metro Commuter Services and VPSI had a van on display as well as a information kiosk for each participating corporation (there were six participating corporations in the event). A Target gift certificate in the amount of $250 was given as a main prize to those signing up at the event for ridesharing assistance through Metro Commuter Services. Goldstein estimated there were probably 10-15 new ridesharing partners that will result from the promotion. Raduenz reported on the Bloomington Chamber of Commerce breakfast she and Lee attended on 7-15-98. They met with Don Groen and Tammy Neinaber of the Chamber regarding potential future joint activities. As part of the discussion it was suggested that the Corridor Commission co-sponsor with the other local chambers a legislative candidate event (happy hour) at a local hotel along 494 in late September. Further discussion on this item occured under Item VIII of the minutes. The Bloomington Chamber also asked the Corridor Commission to purchase an advertisement in its monthly newsletter; there is a special promotion on at the present time that allows purchasers a third month free with the purchase of two months of advertising. Hovland moved and Senness seconded a motion to purchase a business -card size advertisement for two months in the Bloomington Chamber newsletter at a cost of $150. Thorfinnson discussed the Southwest Corridor Commissions recent TEA 21 appropriation of $4 million for right-of-way. As a member of the Southwest Corridor Commission, the City of Eden Prairie voted "yes" on the memorandum which allowed purchase of right-of-way parcels from Hwy. 212 to County Rd. 4. Raduenz provided information on the transit providers' subcommittee meeting held July 16, 1998. Three target areas along 494 have been identified by the group for further breakdown of employee addresses in order to better understand employee commute behavior. The areas are: the Golden Triangle area of Eden Prairie/Minnetonka; the Minnetonka Corporate Center at 494/62; and the France -100 area of 494. More information on employee commute patterns will be forthcoming in future months. Raduenz and Thorfinnson attended a Corridor Groups meeting on August 5th at Eden Prairie City Hall sponsored by the Corridor Commission and the Minnesota Transportation Alliance. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss potential ways in which corridor groups in Minnesota can work together to fund major corridor projects rather than competing with one another. The group had a good initial discussion (there were eight or nine corridor representatives in attendance) and have planned a second meeting to discuss what legislative efforts might be done for the next session. That meeting is planned for Wednesday, August 26a, at Eden Prairie City Hall in Heritage Room 3 at 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. Raduenz announced the the Annual Meeting of the Minnesota Transportation Alliance will be held September 9 and 10, 1998 in St. Cloud. Thorfinnson asked if another member of the Commission would be available to attend this meeting with Raduenz. Opatz of Maple Grove indicated that he would be interested in attending the conference and will confirm his availability to do so with Raduenz in the next several days. IV. Roundtable Discussion with Dick Stehr and Connie Kozlak. Thorfinnson read a white paper outlining main discussion points of the Corridor Commission, including existing congestion, job development and related commuter trips, congestion on parallel highways, the management of congestion strategy and necessary incentives for ridesharing. He then turned the discussion over to Stehr, the MnDOT Metro Engineer, who spoke about the new levels of funding under TEA 21. Previously MnDOT was looking at about $380 million, and now they are expecting somewhere in the area of $500 million per year for construction purposes. Stehr indicated that there is "an opportunity long-term for moving more projects forward". MnDOT hopes to move ahead projects that are schedule two to three years from now with the additional revenue, according to Stehr. Those projects specified in the TIP and the last round of the Transportation System Plan (TSP) are those qualified in the early funding process, according to Stehr. Stehr outlined two areas where things are changing for transportation project funding. At the state level, gasoline consumption and vehicle registration fees have accounted for much higher than projected state income. On the federal level, there was a real shift in Congress to fund transportation projects at higher dollar levels and MnDOT had assumed that the federal transportation agencies would stay within the small budget amounts outlined earlier in the legislative season. That did not happen, and the higher limits were funded, which is causing some problems for states in program delivery (they have the money but not the time to get the projects done at this point). MnDOT is focusing on funding more road turnback and right-of-way projects in the future with the unexpected windfall. Hwy. 212 is a 'high priority' project for the metro region, according to Stehr. The TSP and Policy Plan in the next round will also allow MnDOT to take 212 further west. As to a 494 philosophy, Stehr stated that MnDOT is very much a 'transit advocate' and partner with the Metropolitan Council in promotion of special bus lanes, shoulder lanes and HOV ramp meter bypasses. MnDOT is also committed to doing dedicated busways because they would like to see one in use in the metro area. Stehr calls this 'stretching the envelope on how we use trunk highway dollars' and he does not think this is inconsistent with MnDOT's charge. The idea of 'HOT LANES' (toll lanes for commuters who would like to 'buy in' a faster ride) where buses and HOVs go free is a venture MnDOT is very interested in pursuing. Stehr mentioned that 35W would be a good demonstration corridor because the lane is already in place, but the number of violators on the lane would make the HOT LANE demonstration "difficult to enforce". Stehr said that the metro area's long-term vision of HOT LANES on freeways is a big plus, and that California is seeing'intermittent usage' in its current HOT LANE demonstration. Stehr stated that 494 must "push ahead" and he strongly agrees with Bloomington and other cities in improving parallel roadways to 494. There is $130 million identified in the.next twenty years for 494 projects, mostly closing some access points and adding a lane in specific segments. (At this point in the conversation, Stehr turned the discussion over to Kozlak of the Metropolitan Council). Kozlak stated that the Met Council encourages HOV, TDM and transit along all of its major regional roadways, and that the Council used to deny comprehensive plans if density of development was too much along a specific corridor, which it is no longer doing. As far as transit goes, Metro Transit put out an request for proposals for two sector studies of the transit needs in the region—these projects will look at route structures, see how they are operating, and suggest improvements to the structure. The Met Council's "High Speed Bus Project" (mmm... ) on I -35W is a 'pseudo LRT' service along the corridor, according to Kozlak. There will be stations at Lake Street, 42nd Street, 661h Street (underneath the freeway) and at 82nd Street. Metro Transit has analyzed who will ride the new High Speed bus service, and a current trip from 42nd Street to Eden Prairie takes 56 minutes by transit. Under the new service, that trip time would be cut to 44 minutes. Future east/west bus services could intersect with 82nd Street and provide more transit services along the 494 corridor, according to Kozlak. Once Kozlak had finished her brief outline of the Met Council's current transit initiatives, Hovland asked Stehr what methodology MnDOT uses for prioritizing projects? Stehr replied that the policy plan provides the highest prioritization for projects, and that it safeguards what currently exists. Bridges also drive the reconstruction process according to Stehr, as once work on bridges is started it is very little extra work to widen or repair the roadway underneath them. Stehr also indicated that the impact of corridor groups like 494 is critical to the success of megaproject funding. "Corridor commissions are very effective because they inform the Governor and Commissioner of local concerns, and influence priorities", he stated. Kozlak interjected that the TSP and the Met Council Policy Plan have four categories of projects for funding: preservation (45% of all resources go here); management corridors; improvement corridors (no major capacity changes occur in these); and the expansion corridor category, in which 494 is included. Stehr added that the metropolitan area has abandoned the idea of 'one big project' but is instead adding lanes and rebuilding interchanges as necessary. The Final EIS is not yet done on 494, according to Stehr, nor is there yet a Record of Decision. (MnDOT hopes to have the ROD done sometime in the spring of 1999). There are several 'interim' projects going on along 494, from 394 to Cedar Avenue, according to Wayne Norris, MnDOT Project Manager, who was also in attendance at the meeting. Lee asked what MnDOT's plan with the new administration was? Stehr replied that he has not spoken with any of the gubernatorial candidates about transportation issues. Lindahl asked what MnDOT's plan is for highway ramp meter usage? Stehr indicated that MnDOT does not receive calls from the public about ramp meters, but does receive them on the perception of 'empty HOV lanes' along 494 and other major roadways. Stehr indicated that HOV lanes and HOT lanes are controversial subjects within MnDOT itself. Would HOT laners be allowed to buy access onto ramp meter bypasses as well? Kozlak added that Met Council research shows that the general public is very supportive of ramp meter bypasses in general, and that the attitude of business goes a long way to encouraging carpooling and vanpooling. Honchell asked about a bypass on France/494 to westbound 494? Stehr indicated that cooperative agreements are helpful and that MnDOT would look at the potential of making those improvements. Simich of Southwest Metro Transit asked if MnDOT was looking at policy -related changes such as signage for park-and-ride lots along 494 and on-line transit hubs? Shalbetter added that the 494 corridor basically consists of suburb -to - suburb trips and what would be MnDOT's strategy for encouraging commuters to ride together rather than driving alone? Stehr replied that MnDOT's approach had been 'sporadic at best' and that as park-and-ride lots filled up, MnDOT scrambled to look for additional facilities. MnDOT has been in a reactive mode rather than a proactive one in the past, Stehr acknowledged, and it needs to get more systematic about park -and -rides, bypasses and other infrastructure changes. Shalbetter asked if there was a different vision for park -and -rides at MnDOT? Is the scale different? Will MnDOT accept a new vision? Stehr indicated that yes, MnDOT will accept a new vision, and that the system will feed on itself. Senness asked Stehr about the northern portion of the I494 corridor from 394 to Maple Grove—would these areas be included in MnDOT's EIS and what would be the schedule for this? Stehr says he expects to be able to expansion of that portion of 494 within the existing right-of-way of the corridor somewhere between the years 2007 and 2008. No real EIS is needed, according to Stehr, if only an additional median or bridge is provided. Senness asked if the Met Council has looked at how best to facilitate coordination of parallel roadways to 494? Tom Johnson of Hennepin County responded that the County will have a draft plan that addresses this question by the end of 1998 (the Corridor Commission has repeatedly requested a copy of the draft plan from Jim Grube, Director of Public Works for Hennepin County, since January 1998) and will come back to each city on the corridor for feedback once the draft plan is approved by Hennepin County Commissioners. Hoffman of Edina asked if the section of 494 between 212 and 100 is affected by not having a Final EIS completed. Norris of MnDOT indicated that MnDOT has some preliminary good news about that section of roadway—a hydrologic study indicates that the existing condition is not as bad as MnDOT thought and they may not have to raise the bridge. MnDOT is prepared to begin the geometric process on the 212/100 section at this time. Hoffman asked if the two bridges at East and West Bush Lake Road will be replaced? Norris responded affirmatively. Gutoske asked if a schedule for EIS completion were available from MnDOT and if the final EIS would provide the long-term vision for 494? Stehr indicated that the Final EIS would provide a 'framework for decisions' and that it will contain a 'final picture' of the corridor. Norris added that if no supplemental information is requested by FHWA, MnDOT will be having an internal meeting with FHWA on September 16th about the EIS, and it should be completed within eight months to a year after that meeting. Gutoske asked if changes to the 1992 draft EIS document would be sent to the cities before being turned into FHWA. Stehr responded that this was not a necessary procedure under EIS guidelines. (At this point in the meeting, Stehr, Kozlak, Honchell, Hoffman and Johnson left the room). 4 V. JMS Proposal and Continued Communications Assistance. Raduenz presented a fixed- price retainage based proposal from Jill Schultz of JMS Communications from September 1 through December 31, 1998 at the cost of $2,000 per month. Senness commented that "it is important to have someone like Jill on a continuing basis" for the commission. Gutoske suggested that the proposal be reviewed in concert with the Communications Plan that the group now has for comparison. Hovland asked if the position could be funded at a lesser level, say $1000 per month, from now until the end of 1998. Senness suggested that a more detailed listing of potential tasks be given to the group for further consideration. Raduenz was asked by Lee if JMS' assistance was critical to the Commission. Raduenz responded that she cannot do all of the activities listed under the Communications Plan and those that come up periodically (especially the newsletter) without additional assistance. After much group discussion, it was agreed that Raduenz was to ask Schultz if she would agree to bill the Corridor Commission on an hourly basis from the date of the meeting through the next meeting date (September 16, 1998). In addition, Raduenz was to request of Schultz a listing of specific tasks that she could provide through December 1998 for varying levels of retainage— products to be expected for $1,000 a month; $1,500 a month and $2,000 a month. The motion was made to extend the current contract on an hourly basis until September 16th by Susag with a second by Lee. VI. Corporate TDM Plan Proposal. Raduenz indicated that in her discussions with staff at each city and with Metropolitan Council staff it was clear that a unified Corporate TDM or TMP (Transportation Management Plan) be required of each developer or building manager planning on building along 494. Shalbetter suggested that the downtown Minneapolis TMP that has been developed is an interesting model. After a brief discussion by the group, it was suggested that LJR staff research how the earlier efforts along 494 progressed with an ordinance, and that useful elements of that discussion could be presented at the next monthly meeting of the Corridor Commission. It was also suggested that Shalbetter present the basic elements of the downtown Minneapolis TMP at the same time. VII. 1999-2000 494 Corridor Commission Board Positions. Raduenz reminded members that a new commission board is to be appointed by January 1, 1998 and that the "normal" rotation of members means that the City of Edina would be in line next for the Chair position. More discussion on this will occur at a future Corridor Commission meeting. VIII. Candidate Briefing/Happy Hour (September 1998). As indicated earlier in the meeting, Raduenz indicated that the potential for a candidate briefing meeting was suggested in a discussion with the Bloomington Chamber of Commerce earlier in July. A discussion ensued about the potential of attracting local legislative candidates before the primary vote in September. Lenczewski asked Raduenz what the purpose of doing so would be? Raduenz responded that it would be good to ask potential candidates their 'vision' for transportation within our communities. Lenczewski responded that as a candidate (she is running for Legislature this fall), she prefers to spend this time doorknocking in her district and that there is no free time from now until the election for candidates to spend time with people who are not their constituents. She suggested instead that the Commission put together a few questions and forward those to candidates from which they are interested in obtaining answers. Raduenz agreed to do so and forward a copy of the questions to Senness, who will use them at the Sensible Land Use Coalition candidate debate at the end of August. The idea for a candidate happy hour was tabled. 1, 31 IX. 494 Corridor BusTour - September 2, 1998. LJR staff have contacted all members of the Congressional Delegation and have decided to operate a bus tour of the 494 corridor on September 2, 1998 (Wednesday) despite the fact that not all Congressional members will be present. More information on the tour will be sent to those invited to attend. Only 55 people will be able to board the bus so not all Commission members will be invited to the event. More information on the event will be presented at the next Corridor Commission meeting. Meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m. Next meeting of the I-494 Corridor Commission is scheduled for Wednesday, September 16,1998,8:30-10:30 a.m. Caen rrai rie I '11� v r v -it- 24. Issue 43/37 (© copvrlaht 1998 Southwest Suburban Publishing) Thursday, September 10, 1998 P.O. Box 44220, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 (www., Bus tour serves to dramatize 1-494's needs Rs Mark A. ni•bcr "',mson•dbus tour of1*494todra- \thcn it —.11"sa t Interstate• nm ize its needs. "But the fact is, it Ilighaay 491, what coo sec isnot fA gl Bing to change. There's a lot of what you get, according it,I(tlsx square footage )of development) I.,wrfinnson Jr. blot's going on-line." Ihday. troll I nn the free. ay 'I hat helps make the 1494 area N a headache— made a Ihde iess ",he eamomic engine of this re- sp, perhaps. hecauxe airport. gion," said Thorfinnstm, but also hound traffic has been lightened -poor sister" when it comes to by the Nunhncst Airlines strike roadway improvements: Although - hoot nothing a lime patience piecemeal improvements to the anI o Into plc of aspirin won't southern and southwestern 1.494 remed5. corridor are planned or under wag filal..irrnw might be o differ- the ultimate plan with a price tag Colt story, sirs the Fdcn Prairie approaching 11 billion isn't fore - Cin Councit member and chair- seen until at least the year 2020. tocol of the congestion-hattlhlg I- 'That's a lot of added eonges- , ) f <:nrrittm Cununission Dc- tion, considering that the Eden Icl,tlimcni and redcrclopment is Prairie stretch of 1-494 between continuing :dung the stretch of Ilighways 212 and 169— now car- t f9 i that omitnissiun members ming an estimated 95,000 to :Ire sccking tot inipmve — from I (x),(x)tl vehicles per day — is add- thc international airport west Ing about 30,000 can. and trucks and north w maple GroNe—incl Ivor decaelc, according to Rayne so local residents can count on Norris, the 1.49-1 project manager more iral(ic, more congcstiun for the Minnesota Department of andslower trod ahead unicss 1'rmspurtalion (MnDOT). changes ore made. So, the commission by year's ,if noibing ware to change, end expects to issue to state and loos, onus would get used to the federal officials a plan for highway delays,"'i'hntfinnson said last week. folhmcing a commission. RUS TOUR to page 12 TRAFFIC can still clog Interstate Highway 494 in Eden Prairie — even with the Highways 494-169 Interchange temporarily out of commission and unable to add traffic to the local freeway. Officials say the best hope for 1.494 is piecemeal road improvements as we11 as mass transit and other alterna- tives to the one -occupant car. (Staff illustration) - .�•. City begins w1`11111..- -; to businesses f`or ridloch ,r& ' of A STOPLIGHT at Supervalu Inc.'s eastern Intersection with Valley View Road could be the result of traffic congestion -related talks between Ale company and Eden Prairie city officials. (Staff photo) Continued from front By Mark A. Weber Brother, can you spare 11 billion? That's what it would take to build the "ultimate" Interstate Highway 494 through Eden Prairie, from Highway 77 in Bloomington to 1.394 in Plymouth, giving it all the lanes and ramps and bells and whis- tles to relieve congestion, according to officials. But. doubtful they'll see anything but piecemeal improvements anytime soon, Eden Prairie city offi- cials are turning their attention to alternatives: ■ getting corporate help to hand road Improve- ments; and ■ requiring new employers to develop transporta- tion options for their workers, including flexible work schedules or car- and vanpooling programs — op- tions that come under the heading of "transporta- tion demand management," or TDM. The Eden Prairie City Council broke new ground with the second Idea just last week, requiring that a developer, Continental Property Group, and Its ten- ant develop a TDM program before a six -story, 170,11(10 -square -foot office building Is built on Cross- town Circle in the office -warehouse district of north- eastern Eden Prairie. The building represents a 120 mWion-plus Invest- ment in Eden Prairie, according to Continental, but it will also add nearly 700 employees to the "Golden and transit service Improvements for the freeway — a mixed or "multi -modal" plan that's expected to include some Ideas Innovative enough to secure new federal trans- portation money, such as addition- al transit "hubs" that would make suburb -to -suburb travel on buses much easier. - "The handwriting is pretty clear," said t1rcorfinnson. "Ifyou can put together something pretty in- novative, ycou'rc much more likely to get it funded." That, combined with public-pri- vate partnerships, ride -sharing and several other Ideas, could make the added congestion more tolerable. Therpessage from the 1.494 Corri- dor Commission's bus tour last .....4...... rat.."". r\.,."1......,. —Al Triangle" business r)istrict that already pumps 10,(xx) workers per day through its boundary arteries: High- ways 494, 169 and 212. The idea behind TDM is that transit and unique work schedules can ease traffic congestion, and it's been embraced voluntarily by some companies. Ilut last week the council matte it mandatory, for the first time, and Councilman Ross Thorftnnson Jr. says It's recognition that the companies that are part of the pmblern need to Ix part of the remedy. "Any solo. tion )to traffic congestion ) is going to have to conte from working with people in the area," said Thor. Ronson, who is also chairman of the multi -city. multi - agency 1-494 Corridor Commission. The other idea is public-private partnerships, and one prospective link — between the city and Eden Prairie -based Supervalu Inc. — is already under lis. cussion. The city Is discussing a proposal In which the corporation would help fund a stoplight at Its valley View Road entrance and a high -occupancy ve- hicle (HOV) bypass lane at the Valley View ramp to northbound 494. If it happens — and city Public Works Director Gene Dietz believes It will — it could set the stage for other cost-sharing improvements in Eden Prairie. Said Dietz: "It's amodel to show the other business- es out there as to what can be done." C7... .............. �—� means attention to 1.494 U pan. 1. - you'rc going to have to replace R mount. Redevelopment projects such as the Shops at Lyndale and one way or another." Public awareness Is also consid- Meridian Crossings have added jobs but traffic, too. More office devel. ered a key by the commission, which gets its administrative fund- opment is expected In Filen Prairie, Ing from tides along the corridor. and 1.494 cnmmuteA ate Wying Significantly, saysThorlinnson, the homes every day In communities such as Chanhassen and thaskii, Sept. 2 tour served to get the mes- sage to some key people: staffers Rlthfunding shortages preclud- forcongressmenjlmRamstad,Mar- Ing any large-scale, MnDOT projects, some interim work is ex. tin Sabo and Bruce Vento, for ex - ample, as well as state Sen. Carol petted beyond the interchange Im. Flynn (DFL-Minneapolls) of the provements under way at 1.494 and I ighway 169. A third lane In each Senate Transportation Committee. It's important for those leaden direction from Highway -100 In to know there's a cost associated Bloomington to Highway S in Eden._. with Ignoring 1.494, according to Prairie, for example, is tentatively scheduled to be built starting III Thorffnnson. "Increasing conges- tion means moundroll tosts to busi- 2002, according toMnDOTsNor• nessesarid the public,'thecommis- ris. A third lane from Highway S to 1.3941s forecast for 2006 and 2007. sion chairman warried ret dntly. 'As a region, we toe payinjthe price of mr._tIAh nh 1.404." -: °^ MEMO CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MN 55447 DATE: September 21, 1998 TO: All Employees FROM: Dwight Johnson, City Manager SUBJECT: Charitable Clothing Drive (outer wear) The Plymouth Business Council, which is a part of the Twin West Chamber of Commerce, is collecting outer wear clothing to be donated to Interfaith Outreach for use by local families. As a member of the Business Council, I would like to invite you to donate any such items that are in good condition (not soiled or worn out) by bringing them to my office by October I'`. I will have a box available inside my door. Items that are needed for both children and adults include coats, snowsuits, mittens, hats, boots, etc. Any help that you could give us in this charitable effort would be appreciated. Thank you. F U O O O O O O 00 �. `p 00 O4 �p 00 N [— 00 �. c) 00 00 C) 00 00 l— 00 O. N [— 00 O, l— 00 � O (71, 00 O. 00 00 (ON� O 00 00 O 00 00 O. N 00 00 O, O O\ � �Q 00 �. O O\ 00 �. O1 00 o, � 00 � 00 l- 00 � O r 00 00 00 00 O1 l- 00 O1\ l- 00 N [- 00 d1 N I- 00 00 00 00 D\ 00 00 00 00 V O O, 00 01 N O O\ 00 O, 00 O\ 00 d\ a1 00 N O1 00 a1 � N O1 00 OO M O\ 00 a 00 N 00 DD N `p 00 r• O r- 00 •-- O 00 N O 00 C71\ O 00 O1 O 00 � DD O 00 a\ G1 O 00 O1 4 N r�- 00 O� MM O 00 00 all O 00 00 ON M O 00 00 ON O N 00 00 O\ S N 00 00 ON � N 00 00 Q\ [� N 00 00 O1 4 O 01 00 ON O1 O C1 00 O, O •- Q1 00 Ol\ L OOH F U W ca a. O O O O O O yam, 0 N� Or W =10 N N� �p� O " W >E Ou � 0 Vr►•� N rV►� �Q � �Q Wr•n ���•�4•� M ct vi cY 00 't a\ II -to O •-» Ul N M v1 N ) V7 N �O [� t/ 00 N O� �/ O •-- N `O W ca a. September 15, 1998 Anne Hurlburt Community Development Director City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Subject: Moen Leuer proposed development along Medina Road File 98136 Dear: Ms Hurlburt: Leon and Mary Leuer own the property along the south part of this application and had signed the plat application as a joint submission with Moen Leuer Construction. Unfortunately Moen Leuer Construction has decided to cancel our purchase agreement. We are disappointed in this recent development and must thereby remove our signatures and property from the application. We had property committed, and a relocation plan established for the existing farm operation on Medina road. With Moen Leuer Construction deciding to cancel our purchase agreement, we will no longer be relocating the farming operation. The relocation of this farm is extremely difficult due to the lack of appropriate infrastructure needed to support the progressiveness of Leuer Farms. The site we had intended to relocate to is no longer available since Moen Leuer Construction chose to cancel our purchase agreement. We now intend to operate out of our Plymouth location for sometime to come. We are concerned about the proposed development around us. This farm has been, and now looks like it will continue to be, in operation for a long time. The following expresses some of our concerns. ➢ The Leuer parcel is approximately 344' wide x 1480' long making grading on the site difficult. We are concerned about the elevations, grading, drainage, and access if the proposed development continues "as is" without our property. ➢ We have an existing residential occupancy and use on our site. We are concerned about proper screening between the residential dwelling and the proposed office/warehouse buildings. ➢ The proposal from Moen Leuer Construction, you have, without our property will require the Leuer farm property to absorb the buffering between the existing residential and proposed industrial buildings. Leon & Mary Leuer 17435 Medina Road, Plymouth, MN 55447 Phone (612) 559-3854 ➢ With this proposal, industrial or residential buildings limiting access will now surround the Leuer farm property on three and half sides. We do not support the proposed plan from Moen Leuer construction. There are many concerns about access, grading, and drainage that will now need to be addressed. We had hoped that Moen Leuer Construction would follow through on their commitment, unfortunately they decided not to, now we have to address more issues. You may feel free to contact me Kevin Leuer at; home 551-0850, work 297-1378 pager 526- 5059 with any questions or concerns you may have. Sincerely, Kevin C Leuer Representing Leon P Leuer Property Owner Mary A Le%fer Property Owner Leon & Mary Leuer 17435 Medina Road, Plymouth, MN 55447 Phone (612) 559-3854 DRAFT 09/25/98 2:24 PM CITY OF PLYMOUTH AGENDA REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 7,1998 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 4.1 Announcement of Plymouth Photo Contest Winners 4.2 Initiation of Pedestrian Safety Program 4.3 Introduction of McGruff Truck Program 4.4 Presentation on Shenandoah Townhomes Housing Improvement Area 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 October 7, 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. 6.1 Approve proposed City Council Minutes 6.2 Approve Disbursements 6.3 Award Contract to Phalen/Kimball for Energy Cost Reduction Services for Ice Center 6.4 Approve Request for Exemption from Lawful Gambling License for Oakwood Elementary School 6.5 Approve Agreement with Metropolitan Council for Private Vehicle Capital Funding 6.6 Approve Request for Exemption from Lawful Gambling License for the Plymouth Firefighters Relief Association 6.7 Approve Minor Planned Unit Development Amendment to add two loading dock bays to the existing building located at 2600 Campus Drive North. Larkin, Hoffman, Daly & Lindgren, Ltd. (98150) 6.8 Approve Variance to encroach eight feet into the rear yard setback for an addition at 4835 Wellington Lane North. Earlier this year, a minor variance was administratively approved for a smaller addition at this location. Thomas and Julia Carpenter (98160) 6.9 Deny Planned Unit Development Amendment for a 22,000 square foot office/showroom building with up to 80 percent office use for property located at the northwest corner of Polaris Lane and 25th Avenue. Caliber Development Corporation (98146) * Items require 5 affirmative votes of the City Council for approval. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING October 7, 1998 Page 3 6.10 Approve Site Plan for a 190,400 square foot office building and Conditional Use Permits for a building height of 70 feet and to allow 38,000 square foot of assembly area within the office building, for property located east of Nathan Lane and north of County Road 10. Opus Northwest, L.L.C. (98152) 6.11 Approve Encroachment Agreement for deck construction at 5305 Union Terrace Lane North 6.12 Adopt Resolution relating to Establishment of Advisory Speed Limits adjacent to Plymouth Public Schools 6.13 Proclaim October 5 —11 as Cities Week in Plymouth 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS 7.1 Assessment Hearing on Zachary Lane/East Medicine Lake Blvd. Street Improvements, Project 7006 8. GENERAL BUSINESS 8.1 Receive Petition Regarding Noise along Rockford Road Between Vicksburg Lane and Dunkirk Lane *8.2 Approve Rezoning from FRD (Future Restricted Development) to RSF-1 (Single Family Detached 1), Preliminary Plat and Variance to create two lots from the property located at 5630 Pineview Lane North. Vince and Beth Beacom (98126) 8.3 Approve Variances to reduce the wetland buffer for properties located at 16740 40`h Avenue North and 16800 401h Avenue North. Todd and Leslie Foster and Scott and Roxanne Bergland (98145) (98149) 9. REPORTS AND STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS 9.1 Report on Status of Traffic Signals at Vicksburg Lane and County Road 9 (requested by Councilmember Bildsoe) * Items require 5 affirmative votes of the City Council for approval. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING October 7, 1998 Page 4 9.2 Discuss Process for Student Appointments to the Youth Advisory Council and the Human Rights Commission 10. ADJOURNMENT * Items require 5 affirmative votes of the City Council for approval.