HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 10-11-1996OCTOBER 11, 19
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS
1. COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE:
OCTOBER 16 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL, MEETING
Council Chambers
OCTOBER 17 5:30 P.M. SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
Public Safety Training Room
Topic: 1997 Proposed Budget & Proposed 1997-
2001 CIP
NOVEMBER 6 7:00 P.M. REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
Council Chambers
2. ZONING ORDINANCE PUBLIC MEETINGS — A number of public meetings are
scheduled. for the last three weeks of October. Attached is an informational flyer with the
schedule and locations of the meetings. (M-2)
3. ANNUAL VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION EVENT, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 7:00 P.M.,
Carlson Companies Twin Towers rotunda, 701 Lakeshore Parkway.
4. SUB -COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY POLICING, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 5:30
P.M., Medicine Lake Room. Agenda is attached. (M-4)
5. HRA, THURSDAY, OCTi7BER 17, 7:00 P.M., Council Chambers.
6 PLANNING COMMISSION, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 7. 00 P.M., Council Chambers.
7. PACT, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 7:00 P.M., Hadley Lake Room.
S. LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS CANDIDATES FORUM — THURSDAY, OCTOBER
24, 7P.M., Council Chambers. The forum will include our local Council candidates and
CTIT COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO
October 11, 1996
Page 2
will be shown live on Channel 37. Northwest Community Television will be scheduling
replays of the forum on Channel 37 as well.
9. CITY OPEN HOUSE/ FIRE DEPARTMENT OPEN HOUSE, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26,
10 A.M. - NOON, City Hall. The Fire Department Open House runs from noon to 3 p.m. at
Fire Station #3, 3300 Dunkirk Lane. Publicity flier is attached. (M-9)
b. Park and Recreation Advisory Commission meeting of September 12, 1996. (I -2b)
3. NEWS ARTICLES, RELEASES, PUBLICATIONS, ETC
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a City news release soliciting applications for Board and Commission seats. (I 3a)
b. Schedule of Northwest Suburban Candidate Forums to be cablecast on NWCT Channel
12. (I -3b)
c. Association of Metropolitan Municipalities (AMM) Fax providing information on the
Metropolitan Council growth option plan. (I -3c)
d September 10, 1996 Star Tribune news article about the growth and corporate
independence of the Plymouth -based company ValueRx. (I -3d)
4. CITIZEN COMMUNIC-47I0NS POLICY- CORRESPONDENCE
a Letter to the Mayor from David Cheri Templeman commenting on the proposed design
of West Medicine Lake Park. The letter has been forwarded to Park Director Eric Blank
for a response. (I -4a)
A status report on the most recent correspondence is attached. (I-4)
5. CORRESPONDENCE
a Letter to the Mayor and Council from Harrison Hills Homeowners Association Board of
Directors, extending thanks for voting to place a stop. sign at 55* and Ximines. (I -5a)
b. Letter to Public Safety Chief Craig Gerdes from Grace and Leo Arbogast praising efforts
of Police Officer David Carlson, who helped them when their car broke down on
Highway 169. (I -Sb)
CPIY COUNCIL INFORMATION MEMO
October 11, 1996
Page 3
c. Letter to the Mayor from "A Concerned Imperial Hills Homeowner" applauding the
installation of speed humps in Imperial Hills. a -Sc)
d Letter to Attorney Roger Knutson from Medicine Lake City Attorney Jerre Miller,
commenting on the installation of speed bumps on South Shore Drive. Also attached is a
letter to City of Medicine Lake Mayor Tom Schrader from Jeffrey Roos, of the
engineering firm of McCombs Frank Roos Associates, Inc., offering opinions opposing
the placement of the speed bumps. a -5d)
AGENDA M.0
City Council Subcommittee on
Community Policing
Wednesday, October 16, 1996
5:30 p.m.
Call to Order
Report on Squad Color Opinion Poll
City Council Referral Items
a. 25 mph residential speed limit issue.
b. Fire Department staffing
IV. Future Committee issues.
Do we need more citizen involvement on the Committee?
Saturday, October 26
10 a.m. - Noon
City Hall and Public Safety Building
3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Maintenance Facility
14900 - 23rd Ave. N.
• Miranda the Gypsy will perform magic
tricks and balloon sculptures.
• Have your picture taken behind the
wheel of a snow plow or police car.
• Learn more about the Plymouth Ice
Arena.
• See newly renovated
city offices.
• Meet the Police K9
unit.
• See the Police
Emergency Response
Team's truck and
equipment.
• See how maps are
made on a computer.
• Take a look at the more than 60 entries in
the Picture Plymouth Photo Contest.
• Tour the Police Department.
• FREE — Parents will leave the event with
a fingerprint and videotape record of
their kids, courtesy of the Plymouth
Police Department and Northwest
Community Television.
Noon - 4 p.m.
Fire Station III
3300 Dunkirk Ln.
• See Big Buddy Water and Ice Rescue Craft.
• Learn about firefighting equipment and
rescue tools.
• 1996 Fire FAST car.
• Get a up -close look at the North Memorial
Helicopter and ambulance.
• See how people are rescued from car
accidents.
• Visit the Safe Escape House.
Learn how to use
a fire extinguisher.
• See how fire
fighters put out
vehicle fires
• Meet Sparky and
McGruff.
• See displays by
HCMC burn
center.
• Learn about
powerline safety,
and carbon
monoxide testing.
• Have your picture taken with a firefighter,
police officer or EMT.
• Find out what it feels like to hold a fire
hose.
• FREE PUMPKINS to kids who bring a
homemade or colored fire prevention
Poster. (P=P1dw available, harvest pernut ft w a first
wme, first serve basis.).
Don't Miss this Day of Free, Family Fun!
Refreshments, games, tours and more!
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October 9, 1996
To: Mayor of Plymouth
Plymouth City Council
Plymouth Human Rights Commission
cc: Kathy Lueckert Assistant City Manager
From: Gary Anderson—Chair, Plymouth Human Rights Commission
It is with deep regret that I must submit my resignation from the Human Rights
Commission. I have accepted a position with a company in Boston and will be relocating
there in early November. I have enjoyed my brief tenure on the Commission and feel we
have accomplished a lot during 1996. I am confident that the remaining members will
continue the work that was started during this year.
We have begun the process of creating awareness of the Human Rights Commission
within the community, developed a Community Support Network to help residents who
may have suffered an incident of bias, we have responded quickly to problems of conflict
and bias affecting our citizens which may otherwise have fallen upon the City Council or
City staff, and we have embarked upon education programs to make our city a better place
to live, learn, play, worship and work.
Plymouth Subcommittee on
Community Policing
Minutes of Meeting
September 18, 1996
5:30 p.m.
Present at the meeting were Councilmembers Christian Preus and Tim Wold, City
Manager Dwight Johnson, Citizens Kim Koehnen and Mary Ann Biermeier, Chief Craig
Gerdes, Sgt. Mike Goldstein, and Public Safety Tech Svcs Supervisor Barb Cox.
Also attending the meeting were Fire Chief Richard Kline and Firefighter Gretchen
Hurr.
First as we were waiting for people to arrive, the Chief showed four Public Service
Announcements the department had made with Cable TV. The subjects of the four
pieces were traffictspeed, curfew, house numbers, and the DARE program.
The Chief then welcomed the group back from its two month break. First, for
information, he informed the committee that there had been a request from within the
department to change the marked squad cars from their current white and blue color to
a more traditional black and white vehicle. Some drawings and photos were passed
around for the committee's review. The Chief stated that in discussion at an internal
staff meeting, the issue of the community's opinion was brought up. If this committee
believes it is a good idea, he proposes to have an article put in the Sun Sailor
requesting community feedback to the issue through a call-in line and possibly even a
community meeting on the issue before a final decision is made. The committee
thought this public solicitation on the issue was a good idea.
The Chief then stated that during the committee's break since its June meeting, two
issues were referred to the committee by the City Council. At the August 21 City
Council meeting the issue of 25 mph speed limits in residential areas was referred for
review. Three articles were given to the committee prior to the meeting for review on
this issue. The first is from the October 1994 Plymouth News and is an article on
residential speeding by Plymouth Police Officer Mike Buske. The second article is from
the July 1996 Police Chief magazine and was written by a retired Chief from New
Hampshire. The final item for review was the AMM (Association of Minnesota
Municipalities) position statement on this issue.
Councilmember Wold stated that he introduced this issue to the Council and spoke in
favor of it and its review by this committee. Councilmember Preus stated he has some
questions on how the present law works. He stated his understanding is that there is a
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statewide general 30 mph speed limit and that local municipalities have little control
over it.
The Chief stated this is true and that speed limits in general are set by the Department
of Transportation (DOT). He stated there are very limited exceptions that cities can
lower speed limits and they are school zones and on -road bicycle trails. He stated
there is also a possibility when the state designates a road at 40 mph cities can
sometimes get the limit lowered to 30 mph by showing the roadway meets other criteria
to designate it as a residential street.
Sgt. Goldstein inquired how the City was able to get Ridgemount designated at 25
mph? City Manager Johnson stated that it is his understanding there were a few areas
the pre -date the current State Law of 30 mph and Ridgemount is one of those.
Johnson inquired as to why the State set the default speed at 30 mph when other
states already have the 25 mph?
The Chief stated he is unsure of definitively why the 30 mph selection was made;
however, the DOT generally sets the speed limits on roadways by doing surveys and
using the 85th percentile. He stated this is more Public Works Director Fred Moore's
area of expertise, but the 8e percentile is the speed at which 85% of the vehicles
travel on the roadway. He stated if a City believes a speed limit should be lower, they
can make a request of the DOT, but when they do their surveys, there is a possibility it
could backfire and they could actually raise the speed limit instead of lower it.
Councilmember Wold stated this did happen to the City on 101 south of 6. The
roadway had a 40 mph speed limit and the City thought for safety it should be 35 mph
and requested the DOT make a change. After the DOT surveys, they raised the limit to
45 mph.
Councilmember Preus stated he knows of a lot of states where the limit is set at 25 mph
in general; but he heard somewhere there are engineering studies that show traffic
movement is better at 30 mph and that may be how Minnesota made that decision. He
inquired if there is any possibility of getting a change which would give cities more
leeway for making exceptions. Chief Gerdes stated we can attempt to research the
history. He stated that as far as exceptions, we would prefer the limit to be statewide
and we would not want to be the exception as this could cause a -lot of problems. Sgt.
Goldstein stated is a lot simpler with a statewide limit as everyone knows what it is and
you don't get people saying, "I can do this in Minnetonka, why not here?"
Ms. Koehnen stated she is confused after reading the articles as to what the issue is as
it appears the cities do not have any authority over speed limits and the issue of
photoelectric speed control. The Chief stated the issue is whether we want to make a
recommendation to support lowering the residential street speed limit from 30 mph to
25 mph statewide. He added the issue of photoelectric enforcement is an entirely
separate issue.
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Councilmember Wold stated he objected to the Chiefs statements and did not want the
issue framed in. He stated it could lead to problems like with the sump pump issue
where people did not understand at first. He stated the only people who get upset with
this issue is people who want to speed. He stated he believed this entire issue is very
do -able and he would be happy to take calls from angry individuals who are concerned
about the issue.
Councilmember Preus and Ms. Koehnen stated they were confused as to which issue
Councilmember Wold was talking about. Wold replied that he was referring to both
issues in his comments. Chief Gerdes stated that what he was saying was that these
issues are totally separate as there are First Amendment issues with the photoelectric
enforcement that need to be dealt with and it is not a question of opinion or concern.
There was also a discussion on whether there were other things a City could do to slow
traffic down, such as post non -enforceable lower speed limit signs or install speed
bumps. The Chief stated that he would have problems with posting lower speed limits
which we could not legally enforce. Sgt. Goldstein stated that the speed bumps have
caused a lot of concern with people. They are questioning why they can't drive 30 mph
over the humps as this is a 30 mph zone, but they have to slow down to 20 mph.
Councilmember Preus stated there is a case for punishing everyone for the actions of a
few. Councilmember Wold stated the situation was so drastic we had to overcorrect.
Ms. Biermeier inquired why wouldn't the legislature let communities set lower limits
themselves. Councilmember Wold stated the issue was to protect Councils from
themselves. Councilmember Preus added that the Council would receive requests
from every neighborhood and some Councils would have difficulty turning anyone
down. He stated there is also the issue of separating those who set the limits from
those who enforce them that the Chief mentioned earlier.
Councilmember Wold then asked if the Committee is then in agreement on the issue.
Ms. Koehnen asked exactly what issue. Chief Gerdes stated that the issue we need to
deal with now is the support of the 25 mph residential speed limit. He added the Police
Department is also strongly in support of this recommendation. Councilmember Preus
stated he generally agrees, but would like more leeway to determine a case by case
instead of a uniform law across the state.
The Chief stated that the uniform law would only affect the streets that are defined as
"residential." He stated these are general areas which are not required to be posted.
He stated that we will have research before the next meeting on pursuing the
recommendation to adjust to 25 mph or other assistance to cities for residential
speeding. He stated the committee can then finalize the discussion at the next meeting
before making their recommendation as this will still be before the legislative meeting.
Councilmember Preus asked how much impact can a City have with the legislature on
an issue like this. The Chief stated that a good example is the tobacco issue where the
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legislature was considering pre-emption. He stated he testified on the City's behalf in
that instance and it had much impact on the legislature and we could get that involved
on this issue also.
The next issue for Committee consideration is the issue of Fire Department staffing
which was referred by the City Council at its July 24 meeting. Chief Gerdes introduced
Fire Chief Richard Kline and Firefighter Gretchen Hurr who were present to give an
information presentation on the Fire Department similar to what we originally gave the
committee on the Police Department's various programs. For Committee members, he
gave a brief update of the issue of a residential house fire that occurred on July 1r
which caused several calls to Councilmembers with concern about slow Fire
Department response to fires.
Chief Kline stated that they would be providing Committee members with copies of Part
1 of a Plymouth Fire Department Profile. He stated from the time he and Chief Gerdes
came on board they had decided that it was important the Fire Department not stay
status quo, but prepare for the future. He stated the profile document has been a three
year internal project for the department in which they have been working to identify
service delivery barriers and challenges and options for the future.
Chief Kline then showed a brief video of the house fire of July 1 r which brought this
issue before the Council. Chiefs Kline and Gerdes stated in this instance there were
comments of an over 20 minute response time. Basically through research with County
Dispatch, we know our first working track was on the scene at the 12 minute mark.
They stated that there is always a perception problem that time seems to go slower to
people at the scene of major incidents like this. Chief Gerdes added that we had a
police officer on the scene within one minute of the time the Fire Department was
dispatched and he reported the house was totally engulfed at that time.
Councilmember Wold added that we had no loss of life in the incident. Chief Gerdes
stated this is correct; we had one pet lost, but all people evacuated safely. He added
that we since determined the fire had smoldered under the deck from about 1 a.m. until
the actual call which came at midday at about the time the propane tank for the grill
exploded.
Councilmember Preus inquired as to how long between when the department arrives at
a scene and when they typically have a fire under control. Chief Kline stated this fire
was under control 25 minutes after the department's arrival. He also added that they
found that a number of the residents in the area who were concerned about response
time were unable the Fire Department was a volunteer department and thought they
were full-time paid. He stated that brought us back to the issue of looking to the
staffing issue.
Chief Kline stated that in looking at the profile, they found there are several common
problems across the country being faced by departments with various types of
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volunteer fire departments. These problems include the retention and recruitment of
volunteers becoming more difficult and the apparatus and equipment necessary to fight
fires and respond to other emergency situations. He stated that our response time
averages between 9 to 11 minutes. He stated in checking with other departments, they
also found that each City has a different definition of how they compute response time.
Plymouth uses from the time of dispatch until the 1'd apparatus arrives at the scene. He
stated that generally fire experts (NFPA) recommend a 6 minute response.
Chief Kline then introduced Firefighter Gretchen Hurr who would give a presentation on
the barriers facing the department in their delivery of service. Hurr stated again that
the group would be given Part 1 of this project tonight. She stated that Part 2 will
include more information on fres and technical firefighting techniques.
Hurr showed several maps and charts to illustrate the barriers. First was the growing
population, which showed 58,960 population for 1995. She then showed a calls for
service chart for the fire department, which was divided into day and night calls. She
showed that the calls for service have grown to over 1,000 calls for 1995 (1,083) with
over 600 of them being daytime responses. She added that since 1982, calls have
tripled. Councilmember Preus asked why 3 years go down on the chart and then there
is the upward trend. Chief Kline stated they do not totally know the answer to this, but
believe contributing factors are the increase in alarm systems, including carbon
monoxide alarms; also confirmed fire calls have risen, along with the growing
population.
Hurr also noted that firefighters are also required to spend numerous hours each year
of prevention programs and training besides fire response. Chief Gerdes also noted
that major fires, such as the one from July 17"' in the video, comprise less than 5% of
the fire calls the department deals with.
Hurr noted another recruitment barrier is the requirement that individuals live or work
within five minutes response time to one of the stations. Sometimes station location
presents a challenge as with Station 1. Normally, the department attempts to recruit
from residences in the area, but Station 1 is location within an industrial area. Also,
employers used to sometimes allow employees to be firefighters, but employers are
less likely to do this because it is disruptive to their business to have their employees
leave to go to a fire and that is understandable.
Hurr added that firefighters much select a 12 hour period during which they will be
responsible for calls within the City and they must make 50% of calls during that time
period out of their station in order to stay active members. She stated this is very
difficult on individuals because of the unpredictability of the time commitment, along
with that of a separate full-time job. It is very difficult to have regular family
commitments. She added the average firefighter puts in 446 hours each year which
includes calls, training, prevention/education programs, maintenance duty, and
administration duties. She noted people with specialties, such as hazardous materials
(Haz Mat) spend more time than that.
Chief Kline stated that this Phase 1 report is the foundation and background. The
department is then attempting to identify and evaluate ways to reduce in-service times.
Various ways to do this include increasing paid staff, increasing volunteers, instigating
duty crews, using City personnel or various combinations. He added there are a lot of
ideas to consider and hopes the Committee will have some recommendations.
Councilmember Wold thanked the Fire Department for the information. He stated he is
uncomfortable with waiting for major incidents to deal with issues such as Fire
response and would like to study whether we need to have a full-time fire department
before it becomes a major issue. He stated he realizes the other side to the issue is
the cost and believes this is a tough decision.
Chief One stated the Fire Department outlines various programs in the handout, but
they are not advocating any certain recommendation. Ms. Biermeier asked what the
cost of a full-time department would be. Chief Gerdes responded there would be about
a $2 million start-up cost for wages and benefits for a full-time department. He added
that the cost for one full-time firefighter for salary and benefits would be about the same
as a police officer which runs between $45,000 to $50,000.
Councilmember Wold asked what the firefighters themselves are saying. Where is the
full-time department question coming from? Chief Kline stated he does not believe the
issue of a full-time department is coming from the firefighters. The department is
looking at the issue because we are stressing these people to the maximum with their
commitment to the Fire Department along with their regular jobs and families.
Chief Gerdes stated that since he and Chief Kline came to Plymouth in late 1992, there
have only been two major fire incidents. The one previously shown which occurred on
July 17'hof this year and one previous incident. The previous incident was determined
to be an arson. That incident occurred the day before a League of Women Voters
meeting during an election year and the same type of perception of response time
occurred there and the question was brought up at that meeting.
Councilmember Wold stated he believed it was important to note that in both of these
major incidents we have no loss of life. He added that he would give our current
department an A+. He stated he could see no problem with the department except for
the noted stress on members.
Sgt. Goldstein stated that he disagrees. He stated that speaking as a Plymouth
resident, he does believe there is a problem. He stated that in the past in his
observations the Fire Department was very disappointing and was almost a joke. He
stated in the last four years with Chiefs Gerdes and Kline, the department has made a
1800 turnaround. However, he stated the police department still has problems with
waiting at accident scenes for extrication crew from the Fire Department. He stated
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that sometimes New Hope can get to our scenes first with their duty crews. He stated
he believes there has to be a better system for the community. He does not believe we
need to go as far as Burnsville and have a totally full-time department, but the Fire
Department needs to respond to these scenes quicker and possibly be available for
medicals. Chief Gerdes commented as far as Sgt. Goldstein's comments on the
previous problems with the Fire Department, we have been able to resolve all the
internal issues that made us less than a professional department and now as Chief
Kline stated, we need to look to what we need for the future.
Chief Gerdes stated at this point he knew the Councilmembers and City Manager
needed to adjourn for the regular Council meeting. He stated that Chief Kline and he
would stay awhile and answer any questions Ms. Koehnen or Ms. Biermeier may have.
He stated that he would like to keep these two issues as the only items on the next
agenda. Councilmembers Preus and Wold stated it was a good meeting and thanked
the Fire Department for their presentation. Ms. Biermeier asked if the Committee could
receive copies of the City Council minutes so they could review exactly what the
Council wanted the committee to do. The Chief stated we would provide these before
the next meeting.
Meeting adjourned.
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Minutes of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting
September 12, 1996
Page 36
Present: Commissioners Johnson, Fiemann, Priebe, Wahl and Willegalle; (Chair Anderson
arrived later); staff Bisek, Blank and Pederson; Councilmember Wold
Absent: Commissioner Thompson
1. CALL TO ORDER
Vice Chair Wahl called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. in the Council Chambers.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Commissioner Priebe and seconded by Commissioner
Willegalle to approve the minutes of the July meeting as presented. The motion carried
with all ayes.
3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
a. Athletic Associations. None were present.
b. Staff. Mary Bisek began her presentation by announcing that we had a safe beach
season, with no major accidents or injuries. The fall soccer program is underway,
with 1,200 kids playing. The History Fest was successful. Henry Willegalle was on
the committee. A planning meeting for next year has been held already. Our annual
Art Fair is Saturday, 'September 14, from 10-5, at Parkers Lake Park.
Approximately 40 artists will display and sell their work. There will also be
musical entertainment and food vendors. Mary stated that she and Mark have been
working on the northeast neighborhood park project. Several inmates from Lino
Lakes are also working on this park project as part of a work release program.
They are starting to construct trails and are clearing the site for the playground.
Public Works is also helping with trails. Staff is in the process of planning winter
programs. We are once again facing a shortage of after school space in both school
districts. There has been a big expansion in the child care program, and they are
monopolizing gym time, cafeteria and multi-purpose space. Commissioner
Willegalle asked if the East Parkers Lake Improvement Association could have a
table in the pavilion during the Art Fair. Mary suggested that he check with Karol
Greupner to see if there would be room, because both the Seniors and the Human
Rights Commission are in the Pavilion this year.
Director Blank introduced Bill Abel, the ice arena manager. Bill stated that he was
from Willmar, and ran the ice arena there for 16 years. He is in the process now of
selecting ice resurfacers and is working with corporations on installation of
scoreboards. He stated that he is very excited to be here and said PRAC should be
proud of the work they did. Bill is working on building policies, such as proper
conduct when in the building. Commissioner Willegalle asked when reservations
for outside groups would be taken? Bill responded that we have started tentative
PRAC Minutes/September 1996
Page 37
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reservations already. We'll miss out this winter on major youth hockey
reservations, but we will be booking things like figure skating, hockey camps and
other leagues.
c. Others. See item 6a.
4. PAST COUNCIL ACTION
a. Council continues to award many contracts for the ice arena; walls, mechanical,
etc.
b. Greenwood playground dedication ceremony is Friday, September 13.
c. Log cabin is under construction in Ely and will be shipped to us between October 1
and October 15. Footings are going in next week.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Ice arena complex. This project is continuing to move forward. The construction
manager reminded Director Blank that $3,000,000 worth of work is underground
in the form of utilities, footings, etc. This is in response to comments from the
public complaining it doesn't appear that much is happening at the site. Steel is
scheduled to arrive October 7. Large cranes will be visible then. The outdoor pool
is 90% complete. Director Blank talked about the identification sign that will be
near the street. He explained that our contract says the word Life Time must be in
the title. Life Time Fitness will be on the door over the Life Time entrance. We
need a name over the entrance door for the ice arena. PRAC can make a
recommendation for the overall name, too. Director Blank said that 90% of ice
arenas are named "ice arena", and he is not particularly fond of that. This facility
is special. A list of names was distributed to PRAC members for , their
consideration. Commissioner Wahl commented that the initials from Plymouth Ice
Garden spell PIG. Bill Abel was asked his opinion. He said that he likes Plymouth
Arena and Recreational Complex, which spells PARC. Director Blank likes
Plymouth Ice Park. Commissioner Priebe likes Plymouth- Ice Center. A suggestion
for the overall name was Plymouth Life Time Recreation Complex.
COMMISSIONER FIEMANN MOVED TO CALL THE ICE ARENA
PLYMOUTH ICE PARK. THE MOTION DIED FOR LACK OF A SECOND.
The Commission wants to think about it some more and discuss it again in October.
b. West Medicine Lake Park update. Engineering met with the contractor on Monday.
A crane will be showing up September 13. Concrete abutments for the bridge will
be there Monday, September 16. The contractor says the road will be done by Oct.
26, but we're telling the public November 15. The City has a permit to dredge the
beach now, remove culverts, and put in a walkway from the parking lot to the
beach area.
c. Open space. Survey is done on Johnson Bros. parcel, which splits the parcel. Mr.
Stewart now wants to sell his parcel to the City for a reasonable price. The City
declined.
PRAC Minutes/September 1996
Page 38
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d. Elm Creek Playfield update. The irrigation system is in and includes 300 sprinkler
heads. Fine grading and seeding of the softball complex has been done. These fields
desperately need rain now, because there is no water to the irrigation system yet.
Going out for re -bids on building portion and fence work.
e. Senior citizen needs analysis update. The senior task force will be meeting in the
next 20 days to review the report.
f. Continue golf course discussion. Letters were sent to the individual golf course
owners thanking them for making presentations to PRAC and inviting them to meet
with staff regarding ways of cooperating in preserving golf in Plymouth. So far,
there has been no response to the invitation.
6. NEW BUSINESS
a. Maple Creek Park - location of hardcourt - Mark Peterson. Mark distributed copies
of park area layout to commissioners. He also had letters from residents indicating
where they wanted court or did not want court. Mark explained that letters were
sent to homeowners telling them about renovation of park and asking for their
input. The play area had to be enlarged due to safety standards, resulting in
encroaching on existing basketball court and picnic shelter. The residents wanted
the playground to be where it always was, leaving two options for the hardcourt; in
the open grassy area or across from the playground area. Commissioner Wahl
asked Mark the size of the hardcourt? Mark said 40 x 60. He added that the grassy
area is quite large.
Rhonda Turgeon, 16205 25th Avenue N, is opposed to any basketball court in this
neighborhood park. Objects because it's a neighborhood park. She said friends in
Shoreview had trouble in their park when basketball courts were put in. Police had
to be called to ask people to leave after hours. She wondered how the police would
access this park and if they would keep coming back if necessary. Who's going to
pick up the garbage? Her husband has coached soccer for four years and says there
isn't enough space for holding soccer practices. She asked if this space could be
used for that instead? People have basketball hoops in their driveways, so she feels
they are not needed in the park. Just because there won't be lights, doesn't mean
people won't be there after the park is closed. She thinks vandalism will increase.
Subra, 2545 Weston Lane. His property borders the area in back of park. Doesn't
want basketball. His sons play, but they don't want it there. They have a hoop in
their driveway.
Jim Sanders, 2320 Yuma Lane. Their house is three blocks from Maple Creek. He
doesn't share the same concerns. The hardcourt is a common topic of conversation.
Not one person is in favor that he has talked to. Neighborhood does not want it. He
suggested that City staff listen to what the people are saying. Commissioner Wahl
asked if Mr. Sanders objects in general to a basketball court, or just in grassy area?
He said he objected to it entirely. Commissioner Priebe asked if basketball was
FRAC M"mutes/September 1996
Page 39
i-Zti
there prior to the park playground being replaced? And did it present a problem
before? Mr. Sanders responded that it was set up before, so that older kids would
not be interested in using it.
Patty Anderson, 16015 26th Avenue. Her house is 100 yards from basketball court.
She has lived there three years and has been a professional educator for many
years. She stated that cult signs have been painted on the old basketball backboard
in the past. She picks up beer bottles whenever she walks her dog early in the
morning as well as broken glass. She hears kids in the park at night after closing
hours and fears that this will become a teen hangout. It's a very secluded area and
no adults can see this part of the park. Wildlife frequent this area now and she
believes that the noise will scare them away. She believes that the anarchy signs
will continue if hardcourt goes in. Councilmember Tim Wold serves on community
policing committee and encouraged her to call 911 if she hears anything out of the
ordinary, explaining that it's not just for emergencies. Patty is not concerned about
soccer being played there, or any other use of open grassy area. She is more
concerned about who will hang out there.
Bob Cobb, 2760 Zanzibar Lane. He lives in the second house from the west
entrance to the park and feels that this park is designed as a small neighborhood
park and is not suitable for hardcourt. He doesn't want midnight basketball there.
He explained that you can't put court near playground, either, because it's too close
to people's backyards.
Bill Legg, 2665 Weston Lane. He has lived by playground ever since it was first
put in and is now 30 feet from new playground. The old basketball court got used 'a
lot. He doesn't see how a car could get into area to shine its headlights on court,
unless driven through chains or on the trail, and you can't play in the dark. It
doesn't matter to him where the court is. He thinks a court should be there and that
everyone should be able to use it. Will not create any more problems if it's there.
Eileen Bohn, 16315 27th Place. Lived there eight years. City parks are not just for
select few. Old basketball court was not in good shape. She feels that when the City
plans its parks and programs, it ignores teens. She believes that the residents are
overly concerned with the small minority who drink and thinks that the kids in the
neighborhood are basically good and well behaved. We need someplace for them to
go and should not exclude them. With or without basketball, you could have
problems. In favor of court. Good opportunity for teens. Can get their dads out
there to play. Girls like to play basketball too, so put court in. She agrees,
however, that grassy area is secluded
Tom Forester, 2430 Yuma Lane. He shared pictures of Oakwood Elementary
School hardcourt with commissioners and commented that there is another court at
Parkers, so there are other places nearby to play basketball. He had a list of police
calls concerning Oakwood Elem. school, specific to hardcourt, from January 1 to
September 3. These calls were mostly property damage, alcohol offenses, smoking,
PRAC Minutes/September 1996
Page 40
1--Z b
starting fires, vehicle damage, etc. He requested that the City not create an
environment where crime takes place. Commissioner Johnson commented that teens
were not represented in the audience this evening. His teenage son says there is no
place for him to go. Mr. Forester said he has no problem with good kids, but these
parks don't always attract good kids. The neighborhood is largely made up of
younger kids who will not use the basketball court.
Dave Howard, 2645 Weston Lane. Mr. Howard is opposed to grassy area court,
because it's a pristine, quiet spot. Historically, there has always been a hardcourt in
the park. He uses park five times a week. He said based on people's comments at
the meeting, he feels the neighborhood doesn't have a lot of faith in its teenagers.
He wants the court installed in a visible area and wants to use it himself.
Milton Bohn, 16315 27th Place, lives across from park. Mr. Bohn thinks basketball
court should be near playground. He feels that kids will congregate near the grassy
area regardless of whether or not there is a hardcourt there, because of seclusion.
Concerned about his neighbors more than for himself.
Gwenn Goblirsch, 2705 Weston Lane. She doesn't want hardcourt in her backyard.
Likes park the way it is now.
Chris Chiles, 16120 21st Ave. Lives on southern end of Steeplechase. Her family
uses this park a lot. Kids are elementary age. She opposes basketball court in park.
Her boys are into.biology and science and enjoy the wildlife they find -in the park.
Thinks park is a real asset and would like it to remain natural.
Tim Stibblin, 2725 Weston Lane. Doesn't oppose a basketball court, but has a
concern about the possible sites, though. Is hesitant to keep putting up more tar and
less grass. Basketball is a loud game. Bouncing balls make a lot of noise. Kids at
playground don't make nearly the amount of noise that basketball makes.
Rich Heinrich, 2505 Yuma Lane. Mr. Heinrich says he knows his neighbors, and
they don't play basketball. He claimed that there are more adults than kids living in
this neighborhood He wondered if there was a City policy stating that
neighborhood parks had to have a hardcourt? Commissioner Wahl responded that
he doesn't think the hardcourt belongs in the grassy area. Other PRAC members
agreed
COMMISSIONER WILLEGALLE MOVED TO DISCARD THE OPTION OF
PLACING THE HARDCOURT IN THE GRASSY AREA. COMMISSIONER
PRIEBE SECONDED THE MOTION. AYES ALL.
Mike Leonard, 2510 Yuma Lane. Read a letter from his neighbor, Russell
Gallagher, who could not attend. Doesn't want the hardcourt anywhere in the park.
PRAC Minutes/September 1996
Page 41
T - 2 b
Chris Chiles spoke again. She thinks that staff needs to do an assessment of other
options for where area teens can go to play sports.
Andy Polzin, 15925 27th Place, said there is a problem with this area being under
water sometimes. He thinks it will be a maintenance nightmare.
Cheryl Polzin thanked the Commission for their recommendation to drop basketball
from the grassy area. She feels that the other proposed area is not a good option
either, because it's too close to houses.
Commissioner Wahl agreed that putting the basketball court near the playground
was not a viable option.
COMMISSIONER PRIEBE MADE A MOTION TO REMOVE THE
HARDCOURT FROM THE PARK COMPLETELY. COMMISSIONER
FIEMANN SECONDED. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH ALL AYES.
The Commission continued to discuss the issue, stating that basketball is a
questionable use of a small park. They feel that small parks are better suited for use
by young children. Commissioner Johnson stated that he wasn't hearing a lot of
voices in favor of the hardcourt. Commissioner Wahl agreed and said that this park
didn't lend itself to putting one in. Commissioner Fiemann agreed but said he feels
there is a need for activities for teens in the area, but this was not the place.
Councilmember Wold asked Director Blank to explain to residents the process that..
follows this recommendation by PRAC. Director Blank said PRAC is an advisory
board and makes recommendations to the Council. He stated that this item will be
placed on the consent agenda for the Council with a denial recommendation.
Council will likely agree with PRAC.
A final comment made by a resident was for more trees to be planted with money
saved by not putting in the hardcourt.
b. 1997-2001 CIP. Director Blank explained the `96 projects that are underway or
have been completed.
In 1997, $225,000 has been allocated for Elm Creek Playfield. There currently are
no lights on baseball or soccer fields and there is no playground. Neighborhood
school/parks requesting financial assistance include Birchview, Sunset and Pilgrim
Lane. Director Blank explained that the City policy on contributions to school
playgrounds needs to be updated. Two neighborhood park playgrounds will need
$80,000 each for replacement. The amphitheater needs to be lighted for safety
reasons, which is estimated at $25,000. $2.2 million is earmarked for the
senior/activity center addition to Life Time Fitness, and additional trails are
proposed.
PRAC Minutes/September 1996
Page 42
1 -Lb
In 1998, trails, development of one neighborhood park, and a field house at Elm
Creek Playfield are proposed, Zachary Playfield needs to be upgraded for youth
baseball, and land needs to be acquired for the 10th playfield in northwest
Plymouth, if population growth warrants it.
In 1999, trails are proposed, as well as continuing payments for the 10th playfield.
In 2000 and 2001, neighborhood park development is proposed, along with more
trails.
Director Blank then discussed some of the things that are not included in the CIP,
such as money for the Ess property development, a building in West Medicine Lake
park, a walkway of some kind over 494 and County Road 9, and some additional
amenities in the parks like sculptures, or fine art type items, etc.
Commissioner Fiemann asked about the house and land by Greenwood to be used
for soccer. Director Blank said he spoke to the Superintendent and told him to
explore purchasing this property and that we would consider a joint venture with
the School District. Commissioners then asked what kind of money was needed to
add amenities to the open space we purchased? Director Blank said we need a
management plan for the open space sites first, and that a year from now will
perhaps have that in place.
Director Blank encouraged PRAC to think about items that were not included in the
CIP and let staff know what they are. The CIP will need PRAC approval in
October. Mary Bisek mentioned that golf was not included, either. Commissioner
Priebe asked staff to give PRAC a list of what's not included in the CIP. Director
Blank stated that he has funds in the parks operating budget to study the golf course
issue in 1997.
c. East Medicine Lake Regional trail update. Director Blank reported that 90-95% of
residents favor trail. Hoping to present a draft report to Council at first meeting in
October, which will go to park district board in late October. If all goes well, could
start construction next year. Part of the road has already been changed to a one
way.
7. COMMISSION PRESENTATION
None.
8. STAFF COMMUNICATION
Think of names for the ice arena for next month, and approve CIP. The seniors'
request for use of tennis courts at Parkers Lake will be discussed in January.
9. ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
For Immediate Release
October 8, 1996
2-3a
Giv OF
PLYMOUTFF
For More Information
Laurie Ahrens, 509-5080
City of Plymouth Seeks Board and Commission Applicants
The City of Plymouth is seeking citizens to serve on city boards and
commissions. Applications will be accepted at the Plymouth City Center, 3400
Plymouth Blvd., until 4:30 p.m. on Fri., Nov. 22. Citizens interested in serving
should call City Clerk Laurie Ahrens at 509-5080 for an application.
Several boards and commissions that advise the Plymouth City Council and
local human service agencies will have seats available in 1997. The City Council
will appoint citizens to fill those seats. Most terms will begin in February. Boards
that may have vacancies are: Housing and Redevelopment Authority; Human
Rights Commission; Planning Commission; Park and Recreation Advisory
Commission; Environmental Quality Committee; and various human service
agencies.
-30-
PLYMOUTH ABeautifulBlace?o Live
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD - PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 - TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000
NORTHWEST
MUNfTV 6900 Winnetka Avenu6.North
_ IaLE
COM ` Brooklyn Park, MN 55428 _
TELL (612) 533-8196
N E W S R E L E A 8 E
.I
For Immediate Release 10/7/96 For more information contact
Lori Ziebarth at 533-8196 ext. 244
CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR LOCAL OFFICE
APPEAR ON CABLE 12"S "CANDIDATE SPOTLIGHT"
Elections are fast approaching --do you know the candidates
running for local office? Make an informed vote with the Cable 12
News series "Candidate Spotlight". "Candidate Spotlight" appears
on Cable 12 News on the half hour 4pm-7pm and 9pm-lipm ending
Friday, November 1. Candidate profiles are as follows:
Wednesday, October 9 Plymouth Mayor (2 candidates)
Thursday, October 10 New Hope City Council (4 candidates)
Friday, October it Brooklyn Center City Council (4 candidates)
Monday, October 14 Maple Grove City Council (4 candidates)
Tuesday, October 15 Maple Grove City Council (4 candidates)
Wednesday, October 16 Maple Grove City Council (4 candidates)
Thursday, -October 17 Maple Grove City Council (4 candidates)
Friday, October 18 Maple Grove City Council (5 candidates)
Monday, October 21 Brooklyn Park City Council
East District (2 candidates) and Central District (2 candidates)
Tuesday, October 22 Brooklyn Park City Council
West District (2 candidates)
Wednesday, October 23 Robbinsdale City Council
Ward 1 (1 candidate) and Ward 2 (1 candidate)
Thursday, October 24 Plymouth City Council
Ward 1 (1 candidate) and Ward 3 (1 candidate)
Friday, October 25 Plymouth City Council
At -large (2 candidates)
Brooklyn Center - Brooklyn Park - Corcoran - Crystal - Golden Valley - Hanover - Maple Grove - Medicine lake - New Hope - Osseo - Plymouth - Robbinsdale - Rogers
Monday, October 28 District 281 School Board
3 year term (3 candidates)
Tuesday, October 29'District 281 School Board
5 year term (3 candidates)
Wednesday, October 30 District 284 School Board
3 year term (4 candidates)
Thursday, October 31 District 284 School Board
5 year term (1 candidate)
Friday, November 1 District 286 School Board
3 year term (1 candidate) and 5 year term (1 candidate)
Before heading to the voting booth, turn to Cable 12's "Candidate
Spotlight" October 9 through November 1 to find out who your
local candidates are --we're the one to turn to for elections!
=Will=
Northwest Community Television's Cable 12 is part of King
Videocable's channel line-up in 60,000 northwest suburban homes
and covers local news and events happening in Brooklyn Center,
Brooklyn Park, Corcoran, Crystal, Golden Valley, Hanover, Maple
Grove, Medicine Lake,'.New Hope, Osseo, Plymouth, Robbinsdale, and
Rogers.
October 8, 1996 3:50 PM From: AMM Fax #: 281-1299 Page 2 of 2
AMM FAX
NEWS
October 7-11, 1996
Association of
Metropolitan
Municipalities
Met Council's growth options plan to be unveiled
The Met Council will ap-
prove the growth options
documents on Thursday. Oct.
10. The public hearing pro-
cess will begin in mid-
November.
The document will outline
the Council's vision and
strategy for managing
growth within the seven -
county region for the next 40
years. The recommended
strategy, as predicted, is a
hybrid of the three growth
options the Council has been
evaluating.
The Council's goal is to
accommodate the 330,000
additional households and
650,000 more people the
Council projects for the
region in the next 25 years in
a way that meets the goals
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it kit Ad;.11,244
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of its Regional Blueprint.
DOCUMENT HIGHLIGHTS
♦ Two-thirds of the pro-
jected growth would be
accommodated within the
existing MUSA. Residential
densities would have to be
more than double the densi-
ties typical on the develop-
ing fringe.
♦ A new concept called
"urban reserve" is added to
the Regional Blueprint. This
reservoir of land will accom-
modate the region's need
for urbanization until the
year 2040.
♦ The urban reserve would
ring today's MUSA in all parts
of the region. The outer
edge would become the
permanent growth bound-
ary and the land beyond
would be designated either
permanent agriculture or
permanent rural.
♦ Development beyond
the urban reserve area
would be sharply restricted
except within rural growth
centers which have their
own sewer systems, such as
Watertown, Jordan, St.
Francis, etc.
♦ The Council would size
regional sewer facilities for
the entire growth area and
communities at the growing
edge would define their
2020 urban area within the
urban reserve.
♦ In the urban area, the
Council focus would be on
jobs and economic devel-
opment near the 1-494/694
beltway, with an emphasis
on the urban core. The
transit system would be used
to increase job concentra-
tions and residential densi-
ties.
Unfortunately, the docu-
mentation defines few
specific implementation
tools -- making it difficult to
provide meaningful input at
the hearings.
The AMM's Metropolitan
Agencies Committee will
review the documentation
at its Oct. 24 meeting,
HEARING & INPUT
SCHEDULE
♦ Oct. 22. 23. 24: Open
house held in four cities
around the region to pro-
vide information about the
growth option policy, includ-
ing the Transportation and
Water Resources Policy
System plans.
♦ Nov. 19, 20: Public hear-
ings in four cities.
♦ Dec. 6: Hearing record
closes.
♦ Dec. 30: Final Council
approval.
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>n85u°e>Fv°a,o=
September 4, 1996
Dear Mayor Tierney:
1-4.2
This letter is to inform you of an impending problem with the
proposed design of West Medicine Lake Park. The new design will
eliminate the only shoreline available for a seasonal (open one week in the
spring and one week in the summer) deep boat launch on Medicine Lake.
Boats with large hulls will not have access to the lake. This includes
many sailboats now moored on Medicine Lake.
We are lakeshore owners on the west end of Medicine lake. This
dilemma has just recently been brought to our attention. Our sailboat is
a family boat, the larger hull allows more stability and prevents the boat
from tipping over. Like many others, we use our sailboat on a daily basis.
These types of boats remain on the lake all summer. They are launched in
early spring and removed in late autumn. Eliminating the ability to launch
boats would be a great disservice to the sailing community of Plymouth
and the surrounding areas.
Upon learning of this problem I contacted the operators of the two
public boat launches on the lake. They are Mr. Joe Harty of . Harty's bait and
boats, and Mr. Bob Wicklund of French Regional Park. Both parties
explained that it is not geographically possible to dredge their shoreline
for a deep boat launch. This is because the shoreline of the east side of
Medicine Lake is to shallow to support a deep launch.
I then contacted Mr. Eric Blank at his City of Plymouth office. He was
aware of the problem as other concerned residents had contacted him.
His response was "it is not the responsibility of the city of Plymouth to
provide a boat launch for Medicine Lake". He would not pursue the issue
any further. I contacted Mr. Blank a second time to obtain data about the
new ice fishing launch area. Apparently this launch is the responsibility
of the city of Plymouth. Mr. Blank could not provide any data as to the
depth of the water at the new area but did say it was shallow compared
with the existing launch. This new area may also be to shallow for a deep
launch.
Z-gra
It is an injustice to make Medicine Lake unavailable for deeper
hulled boats. Please do not allow West Medicine Lake Park to be completed
without investigating this concern. We ask you to act before it is to late
to make any changes. This decision will have long lasting implications to
the types of boats having access to the lake.
We are willing to help in any way we can. This includes, fact-
finding , research, presenting data, and obtaining petitions. PLEASE do not
allow the existing seasonal deep launch to be eliminated.
Respectfully,
G
Cheri Templeman, R.N.
David Templeman, M.D.
2950 Larch Lane
Plymouth, Minnesota
612-559-1559
00
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
00
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5 8
October 3, 1996
Plymouth City Council
Plymouth City Center i.
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55441
BE 4 -Way Stop Sign
Dear Council Members:
On behalf of Harrison Hills residents, we wish to extend our thanks to
the Council for your favorable consideration of stop sign placement at
55' and Ximines.
Your decision will help ensure the safety of our children. We deeply
appreciate your support with this important neighborhood issue.
Thank you again.
Sincerely,
e
Harrison Hills Board of Directors ors
cjb
T 57b
6288 - Sumter .Avenue North
Brooklyn Park, Minnesota 55428
October 4, 1996
Chief Gerdes
Plymouth Department of Public Safety
3400 - Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447
Dear Chief Gerdes,
Sunday, September 29, my husbandandl thought we wouCdgo for
a ride. It was a beautifidfaliday. 'We had not even made it as far
as Nedkine Lake Roadon 9fiyhway 169 when a tire on our car
went fCat.My husband has experienced a great deal of health
problems this year and is unable to walk for any dustance or
engage in any Cfting. I decidedl wouldwalk to agas station about
four blocks aheadof us to find'help (I happen to beone of the few
people that does not possess a ceiiphone). I had only gone a short
distance when.T Cooked back andsaw that a Plymouth PoCce car
was stopped behind our dLsabCed car and PoCce Officer David
Carlson (Badge 49) was getting right to the task of changing the
tire.
Officer Carlson not only changed our tire but answered our
questions about the placement of the jack on the undercarriage of
the car, the speciaCCug nut, andgave us heCpfuCinformation in the
event we are in need of changing a tire again
The traffic on 9M'ighway 169 was extremely busy and traveCing
very fast! Officer Carlson never Cost sight of the dangerous
conXitions and at ad times showed concernfor our safety. He
remained behind us in his car until we could safely exit the scene.
Our ?HA-WXS to Officer Carlson for helping us in such a kindand
conscientious manner. 'We are certain that our outing to enjoy the
beautif d faliday would not have been nearly as enjoyable if it had
not been for his friendly help. The Plymouth Department of Safety
can be very, very proud to have him serving an theirpoCice force.
Sincerely,
66Re .4KIP1,
Leo and Grace .1 ogast Z�L�
c: Officer David Carlson
iWayor Joy Tierney
``'
u
October 8, 1996
Mayor Joy Tierney `
City of Plymouth '
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
c•
Plymouth, MN 55447
RE: Installation of Speed Humps in Imperial Hills
Dear Mayor Tierney:
As an Imperial Hills homeowner with young children, I applaud the
decision of the City to install two speed humps on the main -
thoroughfare in my neighborhood. '
It was only a matter of time before some speeding motorist would
seriously, or fatally, injure a pedestrian, cyclist or other
motorist. We're grateful the City took action before some
irreversible mishap occurred.
Some of my neighbors claim the speed humps have caused a reduction
in property values, an increase in vehicular noise as well as an
"all around inconvenience." But, what evidence exists to support
such claims? We tolerated the roar of racing engines and streaking
vehicles for years prior to the installation of the speed humps.
If just- one personal injury accident is avoided as a result of the
speed humps, it's well worth it.
Public safety is the "bottom line" issue here. Some action beyond
just random periodic speed enforcement by police had to be taken.
For many years, we supported efforts to install four-way stop signs
at selected intersections on the main thoroughfare. If the speed
humps are removed then we demand that four-way stop signs be
installed. We can ill -afford to return to the past when vehicles
travelling at excessive speeds regularly raced up and down the main
thoroughfare. We trust City decisionmakers will concur that
prevailing public safety interests require that the speed humps
remain.
I regret my calendar does not allow me to appear at the related
meeting on October 10th. Thank you for disseminating copies of
this letter to appropriate council members at or before the
meeting.
Sincerely,,
A Concerned Imperial Hills. Homeowner
1�
y
VESEGY, MIR LER tic STRNEF, P.A.
PROFESSIONAL. ASSOC1Al7014
ATPORNEYS AT LAW
JERRE A. MILL IM 400 NORWEST BANK BUILDING JOSEPH C. VESELY (1905.1911))
JUREMY S. STEINER• 1011 FIRST STREET SOU771
WYNN CURIISS HOPKINS, MINNESOTA 55343
Aw "�^" "y Lgr � 612.935-7633
e : October 2, 1996 FAX 612.936.7670
Mr. Roger Knutson
Plymouth City Attorney
1380 Corporate Center Curve X317
Eagan, MN 55121
Deer Mr. Knutson:
I am the City Attorney for Medicine Lake. The Mayor of the City is
Thomas Schrader who recently has brought to my attention the
Installation by Plymouth of speed deterrents in the form of
enlargements or bumps which were constructed laterally across South
Shore Drive at Highway 55 and four consecutive speed bumps east of
a small bridge where South Shore Drive accesses Plymouth.
These are the only two roadways in or out of Medicine Lake.
Since their. installation, there have been several incidents and
near accidents 'such as a motorcycle driver 'losing' control, an
elderly driver jostled and the bottom of small vehicles coming into
contact with the speed bump.
From my observation, there appears to be an absence of logical
support for their installation particularly four of them in a row
on the east side of the City.
\ In support of this, I enclose a copy of a report from the McCombs
v Frank Roos Associates, Inc. engineering 'firm critical of the
location, number and size of these bumps.
In addition'to the issue of safety and legality of -the bumps,
concerns have been expressed from the following sources:
eiNille\nedlvine\knvtson
Mr. Roger Knutson
October 2, 1996
Page 2
1. The safety of firefighters riding on a truck in response to an
alarm are placed in jeopardy when the truck strikes these
bumps;
2. Personnel and patients are similarly affected by jostling when
an ambulance travels over these bumps;
3. Children in a school bus who are not restrained by seat belts
may sustain injury from jostling.
Porhaps of lesser concern to some, there is growing acrimony among
the Plymouth residents and Medicine Lake residents on South Share
Drive who have no choice for access to avoid the bumps.
By reason of the above, i would be pleased to receive any
engineering study or report upon which Plymouth relied in building
these speed deterrents in the number and to the specification used
as wall as specific safety concerns if any based on accidents or
other evidence relied upon.
Si
JAM/ j w
Enclosures
cc: Thomas Schrader
c6%fJ16%M941a1ae\knucson
Fn/Lak4eceitv' Attorney
WT -04-19% 1049 Vesely Miller p.pm/W3
McCombs Frank Room Ammorltttg0 bm
�•o•o WM Aveaue "Woo f lOMM. MNttMM iiM7-449 * .
STV47WWO
612(4794MNFAX P
SeptvMW9 32,1996
Mayor Tan Schttder
City of Medicine Lake
10609 South Shoe Drive
Minneapolis, Minfiesom 53441
SU13=r-- City of Modioiaac Lala
Speed Smaps
MFRA 4197:
Dear Mayos Schrader:
At your request. I drove along South Shore Drive and viewed the speed bumps which have bvoo
irlstaJled by the City of PlymOML In nay opinion, dw speed bumps are both inappmpristc and
illegal for the followins aadaw..
1. in the Plymouths Coraptebeasive Plan. South Shorn Drive has been given the
functional clwification as a minor Collector. This placing of speed bump& is directly
COMM/ to the intended fimedon of dW;vadway.
2. hviinnmsm Statuws Annotated (MSA)16904 door give Doca1 audwrities vutwlly
Campine avtbority ora all sheat: awdar InchJWrMctim boweva MSA 169.06
+gates that all traffic CONVol devices shall ootafvnn to the spoccsttions in tin i1
bfi=cOota Manual ou Uuifmm Traffic Cortotrol Dcvk= iM'rCD). 'D?ac MUTCD
"MUCates a DUMP A N!sd sig% is A894W Whe a !heat is aM
to cresta a basardous condition.1WIVdin detl �� tis:, sv cicntly
WWU
normal driving spoeds.'iba = a vahicle firom its true
Course. at
City of Plyawotb has TM VW9isad POW spm Control.
instead dt► created seveaW 1102ard0M situWons.
3. MA 169.06 plaees the 1egW lisbiliy !br the eec omwe Otto :pard bun" with tine
lova authority.
?be reasons dart speed bump eye net MOOMiNd as tl Me control drviees by MnVOT we safety►
Sad loot- Tiny came diseom1bit to pssseupm win sbiftitag of cargo in truaab. floor. etc.; and
deflect vddeles frosts theft tree course. Whoa I was vitwins do speed b
g OW* the shoulders to avoid or lessen the 9ffaet of the bmmgps. • I noticed cats
CCT -04-1996 10249 Vesely Mlller P.003/003
4
May" Tom Scbt4 a
Srptvmba 12,19% -00�
Pop 2
Ls swOu"wY, tlloy am not sompUbic traffic COMAW *Acts sad is nay
of liability fOr any socidcnt o
opuft iWf to s ®rest deal r danwV OW they y Plymouth
Or tic volumes WD a tlsmay caurt. 1 If �
oo>uro>s. The . apmper �y would shhowr warrants ft le Wea of
of Mcdicine Laky Aodd MOM a copy orthe traffic counts ad speed
twordines th t ware tater.
If you h9vc a»y qvx Umw or need ad4itiotlel ioforimation. plow contact us.
vwy trwy Yom,
MCCOMBS FRANK ROOS ASSOCIATES, INC,
• Rona. .$,
rJR•pey
TOTAL P.003
DATE: September 25, 1996
TO: Dwight D. Johnson, City Manager
FROM: Dale Hahn, Finance Director
SUBJECT: Councilmember Anderson request for 1994 expenditures for Council
Training, Conferences and reimbursements.
Expenditure
Attendee Conference name or purpose Amount
Grannath
Newly elected Officials Conference
$ 125.00
Tierney
Newly elected Officials Conference
125.00
Morrison
Newly elected Officials Conference
125.00
Tierney
Mayors Association -Annual dues
20.00
Tierney
N.W. Human services -Annual Meeting
20.00
Tierney
League of Minn. Cities -Annual Conference -St. Paul
205.00
Tierney
Sensible Land Coalition -Wetlands workout
25.00
Tierney
Leagues of Mn. Cities -Community Policing Conference
15.00
Tierney
Minnesota Mayors Conference -Minnetonka
100.00
Tierney
Nat'l League of Cities Annual Conference -Minneapolis
305.00
Tierney
Hamline University -Crime in the Burbs
20.00
Tierney
League of Mn. Cities -Policy Adoption Meeting
25.00
Subtotal
1,110.00
Council dinners meetings with School Districts, Hennepin
Co., Boards and Commissions, Budget study, Town
Meetings, Municipal Legislative Dinner, Joint Council
meetings with Maple Grove, and pop & supplies.
3,157.00
Total for 1994
$ 4
to
'1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ExecutiveSummary........................................................................... 3
Introduction..................................................................................... 5
Social and Recreational Programs......................................................... 6
Health Improvement Programs............................................................. 7
Educational Programs........................................................................ 8
VolunteerOpportunities...................................................................... 9
Senior Facility Requests....................................................................10
ProgramStaff Needs.........................................................................11
OperatingBudget.................................................................... Appendix
2
EXECUTIVE SUNEVIARY
On October 3, 1995, a group of senior citizens appeared before the Plymouth City Council
and requested a study, which would assess the current and future needs of the senior
population in Plymouth. The City Council appointed a committee which included
representatives of the Plymouth senior population, the Park and Recreation Department, the
Park and Recreation Advisory Commission, Senior Community Services (the non-profit
organization operating the current Plymouth senior programs), and School Districts 281 and
284. The committee was directed to report its findings to the Park and Recreation Advisory
Commission.
Committee Activities:
• Met a total of six times.
• Reviewed current programs in Plymouth for older adults and space needs.
• Considered current programs and space needs in neighboring communities.
• Took a field trip to visit centers in St. Louis Park, Crystal, and Minnetonka and noted
their revenue and expenditure operating results.
• Projected the growth in the senior population over the next 20 years.
• Considered future trends in programming for older adults.
• Projected the capital and operating costs for a center in Plymouth based on this information
and the experience of Senior Community Services in operating a number of centers.
Committee Findings:
1. The elderly population in Plymouth will grow dramatically by 2010.
1996
2010
% change
65 and over
2,543
4,260
+68%
85 and over
115
595
+417%
All elderly
5,400
10,056
+86%
2. The overall impact of centralizing facilities serving seniors is to triple the programs offered
and double the attendance at them. The Minnetonka Center now serves 4,000 unduplicated,
seniors.
3. Specific benefits of centralizing senior programs and services into one facility include:
• improve distribution of information to seniors
• improve the efficiency of transportation services
• allow better nutrition programs
• reduce isolation among seniors
• create a sense of pride and community
• reduce administration and overhead costs for many programs
3
4. Current and projected program needs (number of people participating):
ProgramType
CurrentPrograms
CurrentNeed
Future Need
Social
514
988
1,838
Health
622
1,244
2,314
Education
11000
1,296
2,408
Totals
22136
32528
62560
Notes: Current need based on trend of other new centers to double most existing programs
plus staff estimate of new programs that could be added. Future need allows for 86% increase
in number of elderly in Plymouth by the year 2010.
5. A new center serving seniors should have a catering kitchen, a room to seat up to 300
people but dividable into several smaller rooms, and plenty of storage space.
6. Seniors are a major volunteer resource for the community:
• Nearly half of the seniors in the current senior clubs volunteer time to the
community.
• A total of 112 volunteers provided 12,124 volunteer hours last year.
• Volunteer hours may also nearly double with a new center.
7.
The capital cost of an activity center that could serve seniors is estimated at $2.2 million.
Possible sources of funding for the capital cost include: proceeds from the sale of City land
at Vicksburg and Highway 55, 1996 year end surplus, the proposed capital improvement
levy, and the Community Improvement Fund. The operating cost is estimated at $130,000
per year. The operating revenue from rental of space is estimated at $50,000 per year,
leaving a total net cost of about $80,000 per year.
Conclusion: After reviewing programs in Plymouth, senior centers in other communities,
demographic data, and other information, the committee concluded that an activity center
designed to serve the needs of seniors as well as all other age groups in the population, would
add much to the quality of life in Plymouth.
4
INTRODUCTION
In October 1995, the Mayor and Council directed the Recreational Sports Facilities Task
Force to broaden its scope and analyze the future needs of senior citizens. The sports facilities
task force established a sub -committee to go into depth in this area of study. The charge to the
sub -committee was to analyze the current and projected future growth of the senior population
of Plymouth and to make recommendations with regard to programming and facilities for this
age group. The sub -committee was made up of the following people and was chaired by Eric
Blank:
• Ben Withhart, Senior Community Services
• Sara Mittelstaedt, Plymouth Seniors Coordinator
• Jim Brandl, Wayzata Community Education Director
• Henry Willegalle, Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
• Bill Gavaras, citizen
• Marty Guritz, citizen
• Inge Millikin, citizen
• Cathy Cheslack, citizen
The task force met for the first time on November 16 and had a total of six meetings,
including a tour of several facilities. Technical information was provided to the task force by
Ben Withhart and Sara Mittelstaedt, from the Senior Community Services agency. Population
projections were provided by the City of Plymouth and the office of Planning and
Development, Hennepin County.
On November 30th, the committee toured senior facilities in Minnetonka, Crystal and St.
Louis Park. The Minnetonka and Crystal centers were new facilities designed specifically for
senior citizen programs. The Lennox Center in St. Louis Park was a converted elementary
school. The committee had a chance to meet with staff and senior citizens at each of these
locations and discuss their opinions with regard to what they liked about their facilities and
what they hoped to accomplish in the future.
On December 20, Melinda Ludwizak from the Robbinsdale School District Senior Citizens
Department met with the committee. She gave an overview of the programs and services they
provide within the Robbinsdale School District, primarily focused in the Robbinsdale-Crystal-
New Hope portion of the district. The City of Golden Valley has their own senior citizen full
time staff.
The rest of this report lays out the information and findings of the committee. The report
outlines the current status of programs within the community and what the projected growth
would be if a centralized facility were developed.
Next, the report outlines the requested facilities that the seniors would like the City Council to
consider.
The last portion of the report outlines some programming staff needs, elderly population
projections, and the estimated operating expenses of a year-round senior facility.
5
SOCIAL AND RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS
These programs add the much needed socialization of the older adult. The purpose is to get
people out of their homes and involved in fun activities. Of course, almost all activities we
offer would fill this need.
Increased Growth Anticipated in Social and Recreational Programs
An activity center would provide a meeting place ... "a place where everyone knows your
name". Some of the seniors lament the closing of the coffee shop on Highway 55 where they
used to meet and chat. These added programs might add at least 260 more participants.
Programs
• Bridge
• 500
- • Other card & board games
• Bingo
• Special Community Dinners
• Pork Chop dinner
• Spaghetti dinner
• Pancake breakfast, etc.
• A Senior Dining Program
• Seasonal social gatherings
• Other recreational special interest groups would form:
• Ham Radio Club
• AA/Al Anon
• Book Club
• Men's Club
• Women's Club
6
Times
per year
Current
Participants
Current
Need
Future
Need
Social Club meetings
(Two sr. clubs meet
once per month)
24
170
340
632
Bride Playing
Once per week
51
24
48
89
500 Playing
Once per week
51
20
40
74
Card Parties
Twice per year
2
100
100
186
Pork Chop Dinner
(o en to thepublic)
1
200
200
372
New programs
260
485
Total
514 1
988
1838
Increased Growth Anticipated in Social and Recreational Programs
An activity center would provide a meeting place ... "a place where everyone knows your
name". Some of the seniors lament the closing of the coffee shop on Highway 55 where they
used to meet and chat. These added programs might add at least 260 more participants.
Programs
• Bridge
• 500
- • Other card & board games
• Bingo
• Special Community Dinners
• Pork Chop dinner
• Spaghetti dinner
• Pancake breakfast, etc.
• A Senior Dining Program
• Seasonal social gatherings
• Other recreational special interest groups would form:
• Ham Radio Club
• AA/Al Anon
• Book Club
• Men's Club
• Women's Club
6
HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS
(includes Exercise, Nutrition Education, Health Education, Health Screenings)
Current Offerings
Times
per Year
Current
Participants
Current
Need
Future
Need
-Walking Club (meets weekly)
50
28
56
104
Aerobic exercise (meets twice
-weekly from October -May)
32
40
80
149
Biking Club (Meets weekly May -
October)
24
8
16
30
Tennis club ( Meets weekly May-
October)
24
12
24
45
Nutrition classes
4
8
16
30
Health education class such as CPR
2
5
10
19
Foot Care Clinic
12
20
40
74
Flu Shot Clinic
1
300
300
558
Care Givers Support Group
12
6
12
22
Insurance Counseling
12
3
6
11
Special speakers on health/nutrition
at club meetings
4
120
240
446
Hearing screening
1
12
24
45
Blood Pressure screening
11
60
120
223
New Programs
1
300
558
Total
622 1
1,244
29314
Increased Growth Anticipated in Health Improvement Programs
With a new community center people_ would .be, expecting these.. -kinds.. of programs _to _ be
offered. They would know where to look for these programs. Many people have said they
were surprised that Plymouth had senior programs because there is no central location. It
would put the program out there for the public to see. These added programs might add 300
participants.
Exercise vroarams added:
• T'ai Chi
• Yoga
• Line Dancing
• Intermediate Line
Dancing
• Advanced Line Dancing
• Tap Dancing
• Clogging
• Chair Exercise
• Ballroom Dancing
• Water Exercise
• Lap Swimming
• Volleyball
• Senior Dining Program
• Wellness Series ( Doc 'N Donuts) meet monthly
• Blood Pressure every week
• Cholesterol Screening three times per year
• Eye Care Screening one time per year
• Healthy Eating Series five times per year
7
• Basketball
• Shuffleboard
• Bean Bag Tournaments
Billiards
• Ping Pong
• Cross Country Ski Club
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
This category includes all classes and programs which give older adults the opportunity to
explore and learn about new things or update skills. Included are adult education, creative arts
and legal programs.
Program
Times Per
Year
Current
Participants
Current
Need
Future
Need
Computer Classes
2
20
40
74
55 Alive Mature Driving
24
720
720
1,339
Senior Council
6
14
14
26
Preventing Hip Fractures
1
25
40
74
Ra for Center
1
25
40
74
Medicare Presentation
1
25
40
74
Immigrant Women
4
30
40
74
Kids and Violence
1
6
12
22
Annuities
2
0
12
22
Minnesota Series (Augsburg)
5
15
30
56
Collector's Club
2
2
16
30
Writing Club
1
3
12
22
Story Time Players
50
20
30
56
I Read, You Read
2
2
0
0
Plymouth Rockers
81
53
60
112
Warm -Up Minnesota
12
12
20
37
Hand crafters
22
28
30
56
Total
1 _nnn 1
1-106 1
1 A
Increased Growth Anticipated in Educational Programs
A community center would offer a central location for information and referral. There would
be an opportunity to have informational programs every day and many more creative arts
opportunities.
• Painting
• Quilting
• Watercolor Painting
• Tap Dancing
• Drawing
• Jazz Dancing
• Woodcarving
• Basketmaking
• Bookmaking
• Legal Aid
• Sculpture
• Programs on money matters
• Weaving
. Living Wills
8
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Volunteers play a big role in the Plymouth Senior Program. They take a leadership role in
most of our activities such as exercise, cards, club meetings etc. There are 73 volunteers from
a membership of 152 in the senior clubs. There are also about 39 volunteers from the city at
large. Their hours total 12,124 of volunteer time.
Below is a listing of ways our people volunteer:
•
Transportation for Plymouth seniors
•
Crafts
•
Tour escorts
•
Officers and chairpersons
•
Friendly visiting
•
Fund-raisers
•
Exercise leaders
•
Choir members
•
Knitters for needy
•
Historical Society
•
Cable TV
•
Courage Center
•
Story Time Players readers
•
Blood pressure checkers
•
Flu shot aides
•
Energy Assistance
•
Care centers
•
Meals -on -Wheels
•
Gardening for City
Increased Need for Volunteers
The role that volunteerism would play in the community center would be two -fold. Normally
seniors will take leadership in planning. If they feel like it is their center and they help plan
what is offered, they will come. They would be able to serve their fellow seniors by
volunteering their time as aides, receptionists and instructors. They would also be able to help
with mailings for the city or other businesses. After people retire, they look for meaningful
ways to spend their time. We would be a resource for these types of opportunities.
• Receptionist in senior center office
• Computer aides for classes and program registration
• Computer aides for newsletter which we would need to put out
• People to help fold newsletters
• Volunteer work program to help with city projects and mailings
• Volunteers to work in the craft gift shop
• Volunteers to teach or help facilitate groups and/or classes
• Volunteer resource for the community
G�
ACTIVITY CENTER
SENIOR FACILITY REQUESTS
1. Complete kitchen for catered luncheons, including:
• dishwasher
• microwave
• 100 cup coffee pots
• ample storage
• self cleaning oven
• self defrosting refrigerator
2. Dining room for congregate dining to seat 250-300
• need round tables for 8-10 people (much easier to visit with everyone at table)
3. 3-4 ample meeting rooms for 30-50 persons
• for arts, crafts, etc. (need sink in craft room)
• aerobics, dancing of all types (need proper floors)
• educational programs
• Story Time Players
• lounge area
• card playing
• Plymouth Rockers
4. Plenty of storage throughout facility for:
• crafts
• Story Time Players
• Plymouth Rockers equipment
• kitchen supplies
• cards and bingo
5. Warm, friendly -looking entry with possible gift shop nearby for sales to public.
Proceeds used as fund-raisers.
6. Ample parking near senior entry for 75-100 cars.
7. Have it accessible for tour buses.
8. Transportation to and from.
9. Restrooms near dining room and meeting rooms.
10. Have receptionist near entrance.
11. Handicapped accessible doors at entrance.
• Handicapped accessible restrooms
12. Facility at ground level only.
13. Proper lighting.
14. Air conditioned.
15. Intercom.
16. Card tables and chairs for 500 and Bridge, etc. (at least 20).
17. Proper sound system.
18. Handicapped accessible stage.
19. No charge to seniors except membership dues.
20. Plenty of electrical outlets.
Items seniors could purchase for facility from gift shop as well as other fund-raisers:
• microwave
• dishwasher
• card tables
10
PROGRAM STAFF NEEDS
The recommendations on staffing do not include custodial or maintenance staff. The receptionist
position may lend itself to task sharing with other parts of the total facility.
Center Director - 1 F.T.E.
• Center Coordinator - 1/2 F.T.E.
Receptionist - 1 F.T.E.
(responsible for total senior program, 1/2 time
now)
(assistant to Center Director, works on special
projects such as meals and special events)
(light clerical, telephone answering, I & R,
front desk, registrations
This level of staffing assumes support in programming from Park and Recreation and Community
Education staff. It also assumes a center with a large dining area with several (4-6) class/meeting
rooms available.
A facility of this size combined with the demand created by the size of the Plymouth elderly population
would realistically require these staffing levels. It is possible to start at a lesser level and build. These
recommendations are based upon our experience in operating senior center programs in the
Minneapolis suburban area.
Elderly Population Growth
• Plymouth, like suburbs across the nation, is experiencing very rapid growth in its older population
at a rate faster than the national average.
• The nation is growing much older with the rate of growth expected to become even more rapid
after the turn of the century.
• The growth trends in Plymouth's older population confirm that it is timely for the City to be
planning for this segment of its population. The older population of Plymouth is growing at the
-fastest rate of any.age group.
• The total population of the City. will grow from an estimated 58,000 to 64,439. Fifty-eight percent
of the projected growth in the City's total population will be elderly. The numbers of elderly will
grow from an estimated 5,400 to 10,056 by the year 2010.
• The current estimate* of Plymouth's 1996 elderly population is at 9.5% of the population. The
60+ population is projected to grow 20% in the next five years; 48% in 10 years, and 86% by
2010. By the year 2010, the elderly population will make up 15.6% of Plymouth's total.
*Office of Planning and Development, Hennepin County 12/15/95
The elderly population growth rate stays relatively the same for the 60+ and the 70+ sub groups.
Growth Rate
5 Years
10 Years
15 Years
60+ 20%
48%
86%
70+ 22%
47%
77%
80+** 34%
81%
123%
** It should be noted that the 80+ growth is based upon a small sub -segment of the elderly
population. In 1996, the 80+ group is 11 % of the senior group. This will increase slightly to
13 % of the senior population in 10 years and remain at that level.
11
Plymouth Activity/Senior Center
ESTIMATED OPERATING BUDGET
Senior Center Costs
Full-time director (1/2 time currently) Additional cost $20,000
1/2 time center coordinator 12,500
Temporary salaries 3,000
Office supplies
1,500
Printing and publishing
500
Postage
1,500
Photocopying
2,500
Rec supplies
3,500
Employee training
400
Mileage
500
Subscriptions/memberships
400
Computers
4,000
Facilities management
20.000
$68,500
Activity Center Costs
Full-time clerk receptionist $25,000
Part-time salaries 5,000
Computers 2,000
` Facilities management 30.000
$62,000
TOTAL - $130,500
Facility Revenue $a=
NET $80,500
z
CONCLUSION
Many current participants in Plymouth senior activities have been long time residents of
Plymouth. They have contributed greatly to the social fabric of Plymouth in many
ways. From helping build schools, churches, libraries and parks, to volunteering as
firefighters and care givers; they have enriched many lives. They believe and hope that
a centralized senior facility will enrich their later years in life, and allow them to
continue to contribute to the hopes and dreams of Plymouth citizens as we begin the
next century.
13
SENIOR COMMUNITY SERVICES
10709 Wayzata Blvd., Suite 111, Minnetonka, MN 55305 Phone 541-1019 Fax 541-0841
BOARDdOIRECTM M e m o
Daralyn Pelfer
Bob Zagaros
Date:
Nov. 2, 1995
IJI Vim President
Ryan Schroeder
To:
Eric Blank, City of Plymouth
2nd VCR President
VAIliam K Gray
From:
Ben Withhart
seo�e/ary
Kevin Krueger
Re:
Population trends and use experience of new facilities
Treasurer
Tom Mcen
Past PresW"
Marty Gurltz
Allan Higuchl Population Trends
A&mbwW4.&Ve
Mary Anderson - Elderly 65+
Nelson Berg Percent
John C. Boeder 19902000
Lucille Crow ChangeCh—na
Robert DeGhetto ;. ;:: ..:� • .. -
rDwight Johnson 2543 4,260
Tad dude '1;7 67:5%
John Keefe
John Nelson
Senator Gen Olson Use Experience of new facilities
Lawrence Schram _
Benjamin F. Withhart Minnetonka Center (new building; open 1987) previously located in old church
EW=dlwLli CWa aEa building in Glen Lake. The year the program moved attendance more than
doubled and the variety of program activities tripled. The attejr1kince has
BMs remained at the higher level slowly growing each year. over 4,000
unduplicated seniors each year.
• KO NLE
Mufti -purpose Stillwater (new building; open 1991) previously located in storefront downtown.' -v=_,
Senior Centers a New facility on top of hill near Highway A. Membership $7.50 annual. Old: -
community % ..: :
Community croups facility had 200 members at $5 annuaLlNew facility sow membershlp' grow t6llb-
.
nG a sesr.yy
Senior outreach 700 members. If not a member, people paji'$1 per activity. Non -r iembers•pay
10% more for classes and trips.
- senior! Sig t rai ti
Business yMonticello (open fo6eyears - extensive re=tiuild/remodel 16'1994).
Attendance has doubled and is climbing higher since adding a noon meal
program this summer.
1993 daily average 25; 1994 average 50; 1995 (after dining) daily average 95.
A dW' Office of Planning & Development, Hennepin County
SENIOR COMMUNITY SERVICES
10709 Wayzata Blvd., Suite 111, Minnetonka, MN 55305 Phone 541-1019 Fax 541-0841
80AM of DIRECTORS
Daralyn Peifer SENIOR CENTER STUDY
President PLYMOUTH Ben Withhart
Bob Zagaros
Senior Community Services
1stVice PresWent Elderly Population Growth
Ryan Schroeder
2nd VimPresdent Plymouth, like suburbs across the nation, is experiencing very rapid growth in its
William R. Gray older population at a rate faster than the national average.
seaemry
Kevin Krueger
The nation is growing much older with the rate of growth expected to become even
Treasurer
more rapid after the tum of the century.
Tom Mcen
PastPress*nt
The growth trends in Plymouth's older population confirm that it is timely for the city
Marty Guritz
to be planning for this segment of its population. The older population of Plymouth
Abmbe`-at-L&V*
is growing at the fastest rate of any age group.
Alko Higuchl
Menae.,at�ar„e
The total population of the city will grow from an estimated 56,382 to 64,439. 58%
Mary Anderson
of the projected growth in the city's total population will be elderly. The numbers of
Nelson aero
John C. Roeder
elderly will grow from an estimated 5,400 to 10,056 by the year 2010.
Lucille Crow
Robert DeGhetto
Dwight Johnson
The current estimate * of Plymouth's 1996 elderly population is at 9.5% of the
Tad Jude
population. The 60+ population is projected to grow 20% in the next five ears;
John Keefe
48% in 10 years; and 86% by 2010. By the year 2010, the elderly population will
John Nelson
make up 15.6% of Plymouth's total.
_Senator Gen Olson_
_ -
Lawrence Schram
The elderly population growth rate stays relatively the same for the 60+ and the
Benjamin F Withhart
70+ sub groups:
E"cWvvoietor C.E.O.
Growth Rate
PROGRAMS
5 Years 10 years 15 years
• H.O.NLE
60+ 20% 48% 86%
• Mufi-purpose
Senior Centers &
70+ 22% 47% 77%
Community Groups
• Senior outreach
80+ ** 34% 81% 123%
• Seniors Serving
Business
Office of Planning and Development, Hennepin County 12115195
Population Projections, City of Plymouth 1996-20 t 0. x
It should be noted that the 80+ growth is based upon a small sub -segment of the
elderly population. In 1996, the 80+ group is 11 % of the senior group . This will
qqw
increase slightly to 13% of the senior population in 10 years and remain at that
Au,,;level.
Agency
Trends in Elderly Population, 1990 - 2010
Suburban Hennepin County
Suburban elderly population increasing since 1970
Since the 1970 census, Hennepin County suburbs have seen a dramatic increase in the elderly population.
Between 1970 and 1990 the suburban population age 65 or over increased 150% from 27,701 to 69,239.
This was part of an overall population increase of 26% in suburban Hennepin County between 1970 and
1990 and contrasts with a 15% decline in Minneapolis' population during this same period.
Projected increases between 1990 - 2010
According to population projections using birth and death rates, more than 1 in 8 residents of suburban
Hennepin County will be 65 or older by the year 2010. It's estimated that by 2010 there will be a total of
95,123 people age 65 or older living in Hennepin County suburbs, an increase of 37% from 1990. The
number and proportion of elderly people in the population varies considerably among Hennepin County
municipalities. Table 1 lists the Hennepin County suburbs that are expected to experience at least a 60%
increase. in their elderly population by the year 2010 representing at least 1000 individuals age 65 or,over.
Table l: Projected Changes in Elderly Population, 65+
1990-2010
City 1990 Populat
_. 1 65+_
82
Park 1A
Grove 940
Tonka
ith
4761
125-4-3
r.vJUL;Lau
Population, 2010
(6S+)
14,562
4427
3518
123
Increasing need for services for the elderly
Percent Change in
Elderly Population,
(65+)
64%
172%
204%
71%
68%
Elderly as a
percent of total
population, 2010
15.2%
6.9%
7.0%
5.9%
14.3%
6.6%
The "suburbanization" of the elderly population poses new challenges for the distribution and delivery of
long term care services including housing, transportation, health care, and home care. Along with the
increase in the elderly population, there have been changes in utilization of the long term care system for
elderly populations. Compared to past years, elderly people are much more likely to remain at home
rather than enter a nursing home when they experience problems with the tasks of daily living. The
number of people needing assistance with daily living will grow, particularly as the "babv boom"
population ages. Suburbs experiencing large increases in elderly populations, particularly the 85+
population, will face increasing pressure to provide affordable housing options for frail seniors who want
• ' long term care services provided in their own homes. Table 2 lists the Hennepin County suburbs that are
expected to experience the greatest increases in the elderly population age 85 or older. These
communities are expected to have increases of at least 60% representing at least 400 people age 85 or
older.
Table 2: Projected Changes in Elderly Population, Age 85+
1990-2010
Summary
The elderly population will increase dramaticallv in the next decades, with some communities facing
much greater increases than others. The demographic changes will require planning at the individual,
family and community level to help elderly residents remain healthy and independent.
Hennepin County Community Health Department, July 1996
Data Source: Hennepin County Office of Planning and Development