HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Packet 02-09-1999 Special2
COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
FEBRUARY 9. 1999
7:00 PM
Public Safety Training Room
1. Fernbrook Lane alignment
2. Prosecution Services
3. Dues to the Association of Metropolitan Municipalities (AMM)
4. Council Packet Delivery Day
Agenda Number: /
DATE: February 5, 1999 for the City Council Study Meeting of February 9, 1999
TO: Dwight D. Johnson, City Manager
FROM: Fred G. Moore, Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: FERNBROOK LANE ALIGNMENT
CITY PROJECT NO. 9006
In October, the City Council made the decision that we would continue urban
development into the northwest portion of the city. This urban expansion area is
generally bounded by Vicksburg Lane, our north city limits, existing development/I-494,
and CP Railroad. The detailed planning for this area is part of our Comprehensive Plan
Update.
Currently, the only major roads to provide the transportation system for this area are
Vicksburg Lane and County Road 47. The City's existing Transportation Plan has
indicated for many years that the extension of Fernbrook Lane is necessary to provide the
major road access that is necessary with urban development. This roadway is indicated
as a "Major Collector" street in our Transportation Plan.
The following is the definition of a "Collector" street:
Collector streets provide connections between neighborhoods and from
neighborhoods to minor business concentrations. Mobility and land access
are equally important. Collectors serve short trips and area spaced 1/a to
3/ miles apart in fully developed areas.
As the City Council is aware, an application has been received for the development of a
golf course south of County Road 47. Depending upon the final alignment for Fernbrook
Lane, the proposed golf course could be impacted by the location of Fernbrook Lane.
SRF Consulting Group, Inc., the City's transportation consultant, is working on
preliminary alternate alignments for Fernbrook Lane. At the study meeting on Tuesday,
February 9, we will make a presentation on the preliminary information developed as of
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SUBJECT: FERNBROOK ROAD ALIGNMENT
Page 2
this time. To date, much of the work done has been to develop the constraints and
challenges associated with selecting a proper alignment. These include:
Existing land uses (Hampton Hills Golf Course and single family homes)
Existing buildings
Wetlands
Flood plains
Dense tree cover
Hennepin County parks property for regional trail
CP Railroad
Areas with existing slopes greater than 12%
Based upon this information, five preliminary alternate alignments have been developed.
Before staff and the consultant will be prepared to make a recommendation on the
preferred alignment, the following additional tasks must be completed:
Determination of proposed urban land uses
Location for Hennepin Parks Regional Trail
Cost estimates
Input from DNR and Corps of Engineers on wetland impacts
Public meetings and opportunity for input from property owners
Completion of an Environmental Assessment Worksheet
Although preliminary work has been completed, there is a great deal of additional work
to be completed to determine the best alignment for Fernbrook Lane.
Fred G. Moore, P.E.
Director of Public Works
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DATE: February 5, 1999
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Kathy Lueckert, Assistant City Manager
SUBJECT: Prosecution Services
Attached is the statistical report on prosecution services.
CAMPBELL KNUTSON
Professional As,.,oation
Attorncys at Law
651)452-5000
Fax (65 1) 452-5550
I.!!i,m li. Knrt•ch
January 11, 1999
Mr. Dwight Johnson
City Manager
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447-1482
Re: Statistical Report on Prosecution Cases
Dear Dwight:
I -1d)
Joel J. Jan,nik
1ndrea McDowell Pochler
Matthew K. GrAl':
John F. Kelly
Marthe,t' J. Foo
Mornuerite \I. McCarron
C
JAN 1 2 19'99i
r >t1,
Enclosed please find an original of the Statistical Report on Prosecution Cases.
Please contact me if you have any comments or questions.
Very truly yours,
CAMPBELL KNUTSON
Professional Association
By:
G
Elliott B. Knet
slc
Enclosure
Suite 317 • Eagandale Office Center 0 1380 Corporate Center Curve • Eagan, MN 55121
1
T 1. '•
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i Cry
STATISTICAL REPORT TO
THE CITY COUNCIL
ON PROSECUTION CASES
CAMPBELL KNUTSON, P.A.
December 29, 1998
INTRODUCTION
We have been asked to provide a statistical report on cases we prosecute for the
City. The report focuses on the major kinds of cases we handle on your behalf.
DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE
We successfully handle hundreds of driving under the influence cases each
year. We have obtained DUI convictions in every case, except those we have
voluntarily chosen to reduce to careless driving. In almost every instance, cases
reduced are first offenses with a test result of .12 or lower, no accident involved, no
egregious driving conduct, and no rudeness or other negative conduct towards the
arresting officer. Several dozen of these cases have been scheduled for jury trial in
1998, although none have actually been tried.' In two of those cases, the defendant
plead guilty as charged just as jury selection was to begin.
The number of DUI arrests made by the Plymouth Police Department is as
follows:
1995 ........ 278
1996 ........ 394
1997 ........ 251
Only thirteen jury trials occurred in Hennepin County suburban courts in 1996, the last year for which
statistics are available.
Campbell Knutson, P.A.
Statistical Report to City Council
1-
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Statistics on domestic violence cases are as follows:'
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CASES3
Year
Formal
ComplaintsP
Tab
Chargesg
Total
Cases
GuiltyGy
Pleas
Suspended
Pros. a
Declinecltne
Charge Dismiss
1995 32 75 107 72 23 1 16
1996 47 95 142 84 41 1 4
1997 20 89 109 57 38 1 14
19985 24 65 89 63 30 1 10
123 324 447 276 132 4 44
We work closely with the Police Department, Home Free and victims on
domestic violence cases. We have never dismissed a case or plea bargained a case
against a victim's wishes.
Statistics provided by Home Free.
Includes: Assault; Disorderly Conduct; OFP Violation; Interference with 911 Call; Harassment/Stalking;
and Harassing Communication.
Includes conditions of probation such as complete domestic abuse program, no assault convictions, no
contact with victim, payment of prosecution costs, and remain law abiding.
Through 3rd Quarter)
Campbell Knutson, P.A.
Statistical Report to City Council
2-
TRAFFIC OFFENSES
Citations issued by Plymouth since 1995 are as follows:
CITATIONS6
Year Speed
Other
Hazardous
Viol.'
D. L. Viol.
and
No Ins.
Other
Non-
Hazardous'
TOTALS
1995 3,677 1,722 1,717 2,424 9,540
1996 4,913 2,431 1,495 3,144 11,9831199713,990 1 2032 1,234 2,885 10,141
Traffic citations have increased substantially since 1994, when a total of 6,204
citations were issued.
Fine revenue has also increased drastically since 1994, as follows:
FINE REVENUE?
1994 373,148
1995 574,054
1996 777,900
1997 685,882
Statistics provided by Plymouth Police Department.
Defined as moving violations which are hazardous to other drivers such as careless/reckless driving,
disobey signs, improper passing, turning or stopping, and failure to yield.
Defined as moving violations which are not hazardous to other drivers such as improper registration,
overweight vehicles, leaky loads, seat belt, and driving around barricades.
Figures provided by Plymouth Police Department.
Campbell Knutson, P.A.
Statistical Report to City Council
3-
The majority of traffic citations are paid without a court appearance. In 1998
approximately 2,600 traffic cases will appear in court. Of those, about 182 will be
scheduled for court trials, and about 78 will go to trial. The conviction rate for court
trials is over 95%. The few acquittals are almost always cases such as disobey stop
sign, where it is the officer's word against the driver's word, and the driver's version
has some credibility to it. In those cases, some judges will give the benefit of the
doubt to the driver. Radar and LASAR speeding trials are almost never lost.
ALCOHOL/TOBACCO COMPLIANCE CHECKS
The City is mandated by State law to conduct compliance checks on licensed
tobacco vendors. The City also conducts compliance checks on liquor license holders.
Since the City began compliance checks in March 1997, the prosecution
statistics are as follows:
TOBACCO
Year
Number of
Cases Convictions
Suspended
Prosecution Dismissed Pending
1997 5 5 0 0 0
1998 17 14 1 210 0
22
1
19 1 2 0
10One case was dismissed on a ruling of entrapment. It has been appealed.
Campbell Knutson, P.A.
Statistical Report to City Council
4-
ALCOHOL
Year
Number of
Cases Convictions
Suspended-
uspendedYearProsecutionDismissedPending
1997 10 8 2 0 0
1998 24 11 2 0 11
34 19 4 0 11
MOTOR VEHICLE FORFEITURES
State law allows a City to forfeit a person's car if the person commits a
designated offense, usually a repeat driving under the influence. Plymouth has seized
approximately 53 vehicles. Twenty-nine of those vehicles have been forfeited.
Fourteen cases are pending. Approximately ten vehicles have been released because
of a legitimate legal defense to the forfeiture.
FORMAL COMPLAINTS
All gross misdemeanors must be charged by formal complaint. In addition, if
the offense is a misdemeanor not committed in the officer's presence, it is typically
charged by formal complaint. Finally, if a person is given a citation for a non -traffic
offense, and fails to appear in court, a formal complaint is necessary.
In 1997, 686 formal complaints were issued. In 1998, over 800 formal
complaints will be issued.
Campbell Knutson, P.A.
Statistical Report to City Council
5-
DATE: February 3, 1999
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Dwight Johnson, City Manager
SUBJECT: Dues to Association of Metropolitan Municipalities (AMM)
At the January 19 City Council meeting, Councilmember Bildsoe requested that the dues
payment to AMM be discussed at the February 9 study session. Information on AMM—
the dues statement and the AMM's 1999 legislative policies—is attached. The 1999 dues
are $9,934.
The City rejoined AMM in 1995, after an absence of a few years. AMM particularly
focuses on metropolitan area issues, such as land use, transportation, and housing. Anne
Hurlburt, Mayor Tierney, and me have served on AMM committees during some or all of
the last few years.
During the last year, a change in staff occurred at the AMM. Mr. Gene Ranieri, the new
Executive Director, has been very helpful to staff in formulating a legislative correction
for the penalty in the Village of Bassett Creek TIF District.
Community Development Director Hurlburt maintains the most contact with AMM
among staff members, due to her position as well as her previous background with the
Met Council. She believes that Plymouth should continue its membership in AMM and
that the AMM is an effective and respected organization.
a
aSSO(IdtI0110f
Metropolitan
Municipalities
December 29, 1998
Dwight Johnson
Manager
3400 Plymouth Blvd
Plymouth, MN 55447-1482
Dear Dwight:
Your city's 1999 AMM membership dues statement is enclosed. It truly is your city's
membership and city officials' participation in the AMM that has lead to the AMM's
many accomplishments on behalf of Twin Cities metropolitan cities over the past
years. Your membership strengthens the AMM's voice both at the legislature and
among other governmental units within the region. I look forward to working with
you and the city officials from your community over the coming year as the AMM
takes on new challenges and opportunities on behalf of our cities.
In 1999 the AMM's focus on state issues will start by establishing a relationship with
newly elected governor and by promoting metropolitan cities' positions at the state
legislature. These positions include the governance of the Metropolitan Council, the
need for continued state aids to support local government services and the importance
of economic development tools like tax increment financing.
As the major voice for metropolitan cities, the AMM will continue to work with, and
to monitor, the activities of the Metropolitan Council so the Council's policies and
programs promote rather than constrain the future health and well-being of both
metropolitan cities and the Twin Cities' region. Finally, the AMM will continue to
provide information to keep its member city officials up-to-date on topics that may
affect their communities.
Thank you for your continued membership and participation in the AMM.
Very truly yours,
S;
Susan Hoyt, AMM President
Falcon Heights Administrator
145 University Avenue West
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55103-2044
Telephone: (651) 215-4000
rax: (651) 281-1299
E-mail: a,nim@amm145.org
Association of Metropolitan Municipalities
1999 Legislative Priorities
from AMM Website)
DUES STATEMENT
FOR
1999
Plymouth
145 University Avenue West St. Paul, Minnesota 55103-2044
As required by the AMM By -Laws, The Board of Directors has established the 1999 dues
schedule. The dues represent a 2.9% across the board increase over 1998 plus population .
growth. The amount shown is the same as the figure transmitted to you last July for budget
planning purposes.
The membership dues in the Association of Metropolitan Municipalities for the year
beginning January 1, 1999 and ending December 31, 1999 are $9,934 for the City of
Plymouth. Pursuant to the disclosure requirements of M.S. 1996, section 6.76, the
proportionate amount of 1999 dues spent for lobbying purposes is 40%.
I declare under the penalties of law that the foregoing amount is just and correct and that no part
of it has been paid.
e a i
Eu ene Ranieri, Executive Director
Association of Metropolitan Municipalities
Municipal Revenue & Taxation (1)
General Legislation (11)
Levy Limits (1--A)
Local Government Aid (I -B)
Homestead & Agricultural Credit Aid (I -C)
Tax Exempt Property (1--D)
Sales Tax on Local Government Purchases (I -E)
Local Performance Aid (I -F)
Price of Government (1--G)
Fiscal Disparity Fund Distribution (I -H)
Personal Property Taxation: Electric Utility (1--I)
Revenue Diversifecation (I -J)
Class Rate Tax System (1 -ICJ
Limited Market Value (I -L)
Funding Shifts (I -M)
City Revenue Stability & Fund Balance (I -N)
Mandates & Local Authority (11--A)
Public Right -of --Way (11-B)
County Plat Approval Authority (11-0
Police & Fire Prevention Provisions (II -D)
911 Telephone Tax (II -E)
800 MHz Radio System (II -F)
Permit Approval: Zoning (11--G)
Witness Fee Costs (11-H)
Urban Reforestation (II -1)
Elections: Alley System Authority (II -J)
Housing & Economic Development (111)
Livable Communities Act (111-A)
State Housing Policy (III -B)
Housing Preservation (III -C)
Minnesota Housing Finance Agency Appropriation (!1!-D)
Family & Elderly Housing (III --E)
Economic Development Responsibilities (III -F)
Tax Increment Financing (111-G)
Property Tax Reform Impact on TIF (III --H)
Development Tools (111-1)
Welfare Reform/Workforce Readiness (III -J)
Business Subsidy (III -K)
Building Permit Fee Surcharge (111-L)
Group Homes (III -M)
Metropolitan Agencies (ll9
Introduction: Metropolitan Governance Structure (IV)
Metropolitan Council Principles (IV -A)
Purpose ofMetropolitan Governance (IV -B)
Transportation (V)
Criteria for Extension ofMetropolitan Governance Authority (IV -C)
Restructuring ofMetropolitan Agencies (IV -D)
Regionally Provided Services: Funding (IV E)
Coordination ofLocal & Regional Plans (IV -F)
Metropolitan Council Focus on Planning (IV G)
Growth Management Strategy (IV -H)
Local Plan Implementation (IV -I)
Budget Process & Work Program Evaluation (IV -,I)
Metropolitan Council: Method to Select Members OV -K)
Parks &Oven Space: Operation & Maintenance Capital Funding (IV -L)
Surface & Groundwater Water Management (IV -M)
Water Supply (IV -N)
Regional Wastewater (Sewer) Treatment System OV -0)
Waste Stream Management (IV -P)
Transportation Funding (V-A)
Tax Exempt Property (I -D)
Return to Table of Contents
The AMM encourages the legislature to authorize cities to establish a
program of payments in lieu of taxes by tax exempt governmental and
non-governmental organizations, except constitutionally exempt
property, (churches and schools) for the cost of services such as police,
fire and streets to their facilities.
Sales Tax on Local Government Purchases (I -E)
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The legislature should reinstate the sales tax exemption for all local
government purchases without requiring a reduction in other aids.
Local Performance Aid (I -F)
Return to Table of Contents
Price of Govemment (1-G)
Return to Table of Contents
The AMM opposes the Local Performance Aid program. The current program
is vague, creates complexity to the overall state aids programs, and
approximately one-fourth of the states cities do not participate.
The price ofgovernment calculation in regard to local governments should be
based on (1) changes in the sum of the levy and state aids, and (2) examination
of long term trends, not single year events. In addition, consideration should be
given to service provision transfers between governmental units, increased
demandfor services by citizens and legislative mandates or tax rate changes.
Fiscal Disparity Fund Distribution (I --H)
Return to Table of Contents
The AMM opposes the use of fiscal disparities to fund social or physical
metropolitan programs since it results in a metropolitan -wide property
tax increase hidden from the public.
Personal Property Taxation: Electric Utility (1-1)
Return to Table of Contents
The AMM opposes proposals for exempting the Investor Owned Utilities
IOUs) from the personal property tax. Under no circumstances should
local units of government and their taxpayers be required to shoulder
the burdens of tax relief for IOUs.
The personal property tax is a significant portion ofthe metropolitan fiscal
disparity pool and, ifeliminated would have a metro -wide property tax impact.
Revenue Diversification (14)
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The AMMsupports revenue diversification for cities to reduce the reliance on
local property taxes. Some examples include authorization for local sales taxes,
payments in lieu oftaxes, franchise fees, deed taxes to remain with city,
development impact fees, or the creation of a separate income/sales tax fund
that would grow with the economy.
Committee Rosters (VI)
Levy Limits (I -A)
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Regional Transit System (V -B)
Transportation Incentives & Disincentives (VC)
Transportation Utility (V -D)
Highway Turnbacks & Funding N -E)
3C' Transportation Planning Process: Elected Officials Role (V -F)
MLR.S.: Traffic Law Compliance (V -G)
Airport Noise Mitigation (V -H)
Road Access Charge (VI)
1998-99 Housing & Economic Development Committee (VI --A)
1998-99 Metropolitan Agencies Committee (VI -B)
1998-99 Municipal Revenue & Taxation Committee (VI -C)
1998-99 Transportation & General Government Committee (VI -D)
The AMM strongly opposes levy limits and urges the legislature to not re-enact
them for 2000 or beyond The AMM also opposes the imposition ofartificial
mechanisms such as valuation freezes, payroll freezes, super majority
requirements for levy, or other limitations to the local government budget and
taxing process.
Local Government Aid (I -B)
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Local Government Aid (LGA) is a necessary, state -raised resource to
supplement local property taxes. Therefore, the AMM supports its continuation
with an annual inflation index, along with additional state resources to further
reduce the reliance on the property tax. In addition, any LGA formula changes
considered by the legislature must have a positive impact on the metropolitan
area.
Homestead & Agricultural Credit Aid (I -C)
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The Homestead and Agricultural Credit Aid (HACA) equals about 40
percent of the total local aid and should be continued as part of the local
fiscal relationship, with an inflation or increased household growth factor
restored for cities. The AMM strongly opposes the conversion of city
HACA to school aid.
Class Rate Tax System (I -K)
Return to Table of Contents
The AMM opposes a change from the class rate tax system to a market value
system, which would cause tremendous shifts oftax burden between classes of
property, or applyingfuture levy increases to market value, since this would
further complicate the property tax system.
Limited Market Value (I -L)
Return to Table of Contents
Funding Shifts (I -M)
Return to Table of Contents
The AMM opposes further extension of artificial limits in valuing property at
market for property taxation purposes. Limiting market value increase on
existing property to a non -market index or set rate will cause various property
tax system problems. Similar properties will be taxed differently if new or sold
and improvements will be discouraged. Tax shifts will occur mainly on lower
valued homes and the ability to issue bonds may be adversely affected. Finally,
it will be politically difficult as well as costly to persons owning long-term
capped properties when it becomes necessary to sunset due to vast differences
in tax liabilities for like properties. The AMM believes that enhanced targeting
for special circumstances such as low-income persons better serves the tax
system.
The AMM requests the legislature to continue to reduce the imbalance of aids
versus revenue between metro and outstate cities and to consider how this
distribution ofresources affects the economic growth and vitality of the metro
area, and thus the entire state. Currently in the metro area, about 65 percent of
the state revenue is collected, while only about 48 percent of the aids and
credits are redistributed.
City Revenue Stability & Fund Balance (I -N)
Return to Table of Contents
The legislature should not attempt to control or restrict city fund balances.
These funds are necessary to maintain fiscal viability to meet unexpected or
emergency resource needs of city governments, to purchase capital goods and
infrastructure, provide adequate cash flow and to maintain high-level bond
ratings.
GENERAL LEGISLATION (ll)
Mandates & Local Authority (ll --A)
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The AMM opposes statutory changes which erode local control and authority
or create mandated additional tasks requiring new or added local costs without
a corresponding state appropriation or funding mechanism. New unfunded
mandates cause increased property taxes which impedes the ability to fund
traditional service needs.
Public Right -of -Way (II --B)
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The AMM supports the continued effort ofthe League of Minnesota Cities
LMC) to protect the authority ofcities to maintain jurisdiction over municipal
public rights-of-way, to establish relevant criteria and to obtain reasonable
compensation for its degradation.
County Plat Approval Authority (ll --C)
Return to Table of Contents
Cities oppose county authority over plat approval for plats that are contiguous
to existing or proposed county roads. While counties have a valid interest in
proposed plat decisions, this does not warrant a transfer of approval authority.
Police & Fire Pension Provisions (ll --D)
Return to Table of Contents
911 Telephone Tax (ll -E)
Return to Table of Contents
The AMM opposes reductions ofstate amortization aid to local police andfire
relief associations or benefit increases, which are not financed by at least a 50
percent employee contribution for the benefit or resulting deficit.
The employee pension contribution amount should be set at 40 percent of the
normal cost offinancing the benefits even if this amount exceeds 8 percent of
the base salary.
Actuarial assumptions relating to salaries and investment return should more
truly reflect experiences and bonuses. The AMM opposes bonuses such as the
13th check which should not be included in actuarial assumption changes.
The AMM supports the current distribution of the 911 -access fee and the limit
of30 cents per line per month to offset basic maintenance costs and enhanced
upgrade. Any fee granted legislatively in excess of 30 cents should be returned
directly to the municipality or public safety answering provider (PSAP) where
collected. Fee increases granted by the legislature should be a specific amount
not a general authorization and onlyfor a specific purpose. Phase 2 Wireless
enhanced 911 costs should be recoveredfrom a direct charge to cell phone
users.
800 MHz Radio System (II -F)
Return to Table of Contents
The AMMsupports the continuation of the Metropolitan 800 MHz Radio
System legislation and board, as long as cities are not forced to modify their
current systems or become part of the 800 MHz Radio System until they so
choose. The system should provide a phased transition guaranteeing
uninterrupted service and be technically capable of allowing communities the
flexibility to form various coordinated arrangements for dispatching and
service provision. Since there are both regional and local benefits to local
government units joining the system, the AMM urges the Regional Radio Board
to seek a state appropriation to assist local units ofgovernment in joining the
system.
Permit Approval: Zoning (ll --G)
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The permit approval statute delineating time limit requirements should be
modified so that in the case of a rezoning application, a motion which requires
a simple majority vote that extends action beyond the 60 or 120 day time
requirement, constitutes a denial not an approval in order to uphold the super
Witness Fee Costs (11-H)
Return to Table of Contents
Urban Reforestation (114)
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majority requirement of the zoning statute. Current law provides automatic
approval if no action is taken.
Since one third offines for city -related prosecutions remain with the county and
adequately fund this cost, the AMM opposes shifting witness'fees from counties
to cities for these actions.
The AMM supports the creation ofa program in the Department ofNatural
Resources to provide for urban reforestation.
Elections: Alley System Authority (11--J)
Return to Table of Contents
The AMM supports permissive authority for statutory cities to adopt an
alley system for riling for city council seats.
HOUSING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (Ill)
Livable Communities Act (Ill -A)
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The 1995 Legislature enacted the Livable Communities Act (LCA) to stimulate
housing and economic and community development in the metropolitan area.
The act permits cities to access about $11.0 million in funding for pollution
clean-up, housing and redevelopment. As a participant, a city must adopt
affordable and life cycle housing goals and a plan to achieve the goals.
Since its inception, the Metropolitan Council has been responsible for program
implementation, including the completion ofan annual progress report. The
reportfor the 1996 calendar year indicates progress toward achieving the
stated goals but also raises concern regarding the preservation ofaffordable
housing, particularly the demolition of housing units.
The AMM has maintained that the LCA should not be amended until there are
progress reports and experience with the LCA. Based on the reports and
experience ofcities, the AMM recommends:
The LCA should be continued
The LCA should be amended to eliminate the requirement that a city
annually elect to be a participant in the act and require by November
15 that a resolution to withdraw be approved.
The state should appropriate funds for the LCA. The appropriation
should not replace the currentfunding sources but should be in
addition to them.
State Housing Policy (Ill -B)
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To continue the expansion ofthe state's economy, the governor and legislature
should recognize the importance ofhousing to economic vitality andfamily
stability and should adopt policies that preserve existing housing, permit the
production ofsafe affordable housing and provide resources to produce and
preserve housing. The AMM recommends the following:
Land Use Standards and State Incentives
Housing Preservation (III --C)
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Minnesota cities are responsible for and should retain the authority to
regulate the location, sue and amount, and type of housing within their
boundaries.
The state, in an effort to encourage more affordable housing, should
authorize cities on a voluntary basis and provide incentives for such
concepts as density bonuses and mixes of housing types and price
ranges. The incentives can be, but not be limited to, property tax class
rates and sales tax exemptions for construction materials.
State funding providedfor the incentives should not reduce existing
programs.
Housing preservation includes the maintenance of the existing rental and
owner occupied housing, as well as the retention ofoffordable units that were
formerly subsidized byfederal programs. The state should.•
Continue and increase funding the housing preservation program for
federally subsidized housing that could be converted to market rate
housing.
Expand efforts to provide resources for housing rehabilitation.
Provide a sales tax exemption for construction supplies and materials
used in the construction or substantial rehabilitation of a f `ordable
housing.
Exempt public agencies from paying the mortgage and deed tax when
developing or providing for affordable housing and redevelopment.
Minnesota Housing Finance Agency Appropriation (lll--D)
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The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency's (MHFA) biennial general fund
appropriation approximates 878.0 million. The agency uses the funds for
several housing programs including rental and homeownership. For the next
biennium the agency should.
Have its appropriation increased and the increase be used primarily
for housing preservation, housing production and homeless prevention
programs.
Redesign, if warranted and with city input, the Community
Rehabilitation Program to encourage additional participation from the
metropolitan area. The redesign, ifneeded, could include modification
of the area designation, and appropriation set aside, a multiple year
funding commitment, recognition of local needs, the timing of the
application process, and a linkage to the LCA.
Family & Elderly Housing (III --E)
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Demographic trends indicate that Minnesota's population is aging. For
example, the Metropolitan Council projects that the region's population age 65
and older will nearly double from the year 2000 to 2020. Since most of the
population owns single family housing and they will be smaller households
there could be a demandfor smaller housing units. The elderly population will
also be older than their predecessors will.
In the metropolitan area, the Council reports that the number ofpersons age 75
and over will increase from approximately 110,000 in the year 2000 to 180,000
in 2020. Being aware ofthe trends, the legislature should.
Provide additional resources to serve the low income elderly.
Resources should include housing as well as related services.
Direct state agencies to provide information and technical assistance
to local governments regarding the population changes and their
impacts on public services.
Develop policies that encourage the development of housing for the
elderly that is affordable and provides an attractive alternative to
current housing and preserves the current housing.
Economic Development Responsibilities (111-19
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The state should continue to recognize cities as the primary unit ofgovernment
responsible for implementing economic development policies and land use
controls. New or amended economic development programs designed to
address specific economic circumstances with cities or counties should use
problem definition as the criteria rather than geographic location, city size or
similar criteria.
Tax Increment Financing (Ill -G)
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The legislative Recodification Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Task Force
will initially have a bill that will be absent of policy changes. Policy
changes should be addressed separately from the recodification and
among the changes the legislature should.
Po iny
Local Effort
TIF Use
Clarify that any tax increment districts approved
between 1979 and 1982 have the same authority
to pool increments as districts certified after 1982
and prior to April 1, 1990.
Allow districts approved after April 1, 1990 to pool
increments for affordable housing or pollution
remediation.
Eliminate the LGAIHACA penalty or allow an
exception from levy limits. If the penalty is not
eliminated, the restrictions on the source of
payment should be removed.
Authorize the use of federal grants and other
local funds for local contributions.
Exempt redevelopment districts from the five-year
rule.
Housing
Reporting
Reaffirm that cities alone should be authorized to
approve city initiated tax increment districts and
that counties and school districts should continue
to have the ability to review and comment on TIF.
Permit all cities to establish housing replacement
scattered site) districts and allow TIF to be used
for historic preservation.
Modify the housing district income qualification
requirements to allow the levels to vary according
to individual regions of the state or counties.
Remove the LGA/HACA penalty imposed on
housing districts established between 1990 and
1993.
Authorize the publication of TIF financial
information in a format so that it provides
taxpayers with useful information.
Clarify that the Office of State Auditor (OSA) must
give cities sixty days to respond to a violation of
the TIF law prior to sending a notice of the
violation to the county attorney. The notice to the
city must also state that at the end of the sixty-
day period any resolved issues will be sent to the
county attorney for possible action.
Require the county attorney to decide on action
regarding violation within ninety days of receipt of
the notice from the OSA.
Authorize the OSA to conduct a compliance
review of a tax increment district within twelve
months of the date the district is decertified or the
increment is completely expended whichever is
later. The State Auditor, upon completion of the
review and resolution of outstanding issues, must
issue a certification that the district is complete
and not subject to further actions by the Office.
Make statutory changes to simplify the TIF
reporting forms submitted annually to the State
Auditor.
Property Tax Reform Impact on TIF (Ill -H)
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During the past two legislative sessions, the property tax class rates
have been compressed and as a result commercial industrial property
taxes should decrease. The decrease could also result in revenue
shortfalls in TIF districts. The shortfalls could impact bond payments
and other contractual obligations. Being aware of the impact, the 1997
Legislature authorized a $2.0 million grant program to be administered
by the Minnesota Department of Revenue and the 1998 Legislature
authorized cities to establish special service districts to offset possible
shortfalls. Being aware of the impacts, the legislature should:
Authorize the grant program for 1998 tax change impacts in
addition to the 1997 tax changes.
Provide additional funding for the program and extend the
Development Tools (I11-1)
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sunset to the year 2003.
Include the changes in class rate definitions such as maximum
market value limits and number of parcels per class in the
calculations to determine class rate compression impacts.
Move the application and payment dates to coincide with the city
budget time frames.
Permit city councils to transfer funds from one city development
agency to another to prevent shortfalls due to property tax
changes or TIF law changes that would result in a deficit in
paying outstanding contracts or obligations.
Over the past several sessions, the legislature has provided cities with
development tools to redevelop property, clean up polluted sites and
encourage business retention and expansion. The tools include, but are
not limited, to TIF, tax expenditures and loans and grants. Many of the
state tools have supplemented local efforts. To continue this state local
relationship, the legislature should.
Continue the Minnesota Investment Fund.
Support increased funding for the pollution clean-up program
administered by the Minnesota Department of Trade and
Economic Development (DTED).
Require condemnation commissioners to consider the cost of
correcting pollution problems in determining the final value of
Property
Establish an indemnification fund to provide financial security for
institutions and individuals as they invest in developing and
clean-up of polluted sites.
Eliminate the requirement to match a portion of the clean-up
grant program with local general funds.
Continue and increase funding for the Redevelopment Fund
established in 1998.
Welfare ReformMorkforce Readiness (Ill -J)
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With the passage of federal welfare reform and enactment of
Minnesota's new welfare program — the Minnesota Family Investment
Program (MFIP), public policy is placing an emphasis on work and job
readiness. The purpose of MFIP is intended to support work and not to
replace income when people are not working. To accomplish the goal of
getting people to work Minnesota has adopted a work first program that
expects, supports, and rewards work.
Among the program elements established by the legislature to
implement MFIP are jobs training, transportation, medical assistance,
and housing.
As MFIP is being implemented statewide, the state is experiencing
record low unemployment and economic growth and as a result there
are now employment opportunities. If the economy, however, declines,
employment opportunities for MFIP participants will decrease and the
state's human service system could be over extended. Being aware that
a trained work force is a major part of an economic development
strategy the legislature should.
Business Subsidy (III --K)
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Provide state funding to match the maximum amount of available
federal training funds.
Continue and increase funding for state job training programs
including Pathways and the Job Training Partnership.
Modify the Pathways Program to provide public agencies with
the flexibility to contract with training programs of employers, as
well as those of public institutions.
Continue and increase funding for the transportation and
childcare programs including sliding fee daycare.
Examine the delivery system for state services (training,
daycare)) to determine and ensure that administrative procedures
are implemented uniformly throughout the state.
The Minnesota Department of Trade and Economic Development
DIED) and local governments provide financial incentives to
businesses to relocate, expand or remain in the state or specific city.
The provision of the incentives is usually part of a development
agreement between the business and the public entity. The agreement
contains a description of the incentive and the type of development to
be completed in terms of market value or square footage and penalties
fornon-performance. The agreements also contain job and wage goals
as required by current Minnesota law.
In reviewing the issue of corporate subsidy the legislature should:
Clarify the reporting requirements in terms of time frames and
reporting entity.
Exclude redevelopment and housing TIF districts from the
reporting requirements of current law.
Maintain the reporting ofjob and wage goals in current law but
do not require a specific wage amount.
Building Permit Fee Surcharge (III --L)
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Group Homes (III --M)
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Local governments collect a half -percent surcharge on building permits.
The proceeds of the surcharge are paid to the state and are used to
support the State Building Codes and Standards Division. Prior to 1991,
any excess proceeds were remitted on a prorate basis to the local
govemments. To help with the development of affordable housing it is
recommended that
The proceeds from the building permit surcharge fee be paid to
the MHFA for the support of affordable housing and that the
building codes and standards division be funded from the state
general fund.
State and county agencies must provide timely
notification to cities of facility license requests and
renewals and provide adequate opportunity to respond.
Cities must also be aware of the special care needed by
residents of such facilities in case of public safety
emergencies.
Clustering of community residential facilities because of
economic, geographic or other factors should be
avoided. Standards of non -concentration for state or
county -issued Requests for Proposals (RFPs) should be
established.
There must be an ongoing screening process,
particularly in the correction area, to insure that persons
placed in a residential facility will benefit from such an
environment and will not be a danger to themselves or
others. The licensing authority must be responsible for
removing any person found incapable of living peacefully
in such an environment.
Facilities licensed by the corrections department should
not be exempt from reasonable local land use
regulations.
A fair share concept should be considered within the
metropolitan area. However, this concept should
consider other factors including transportation facilities,
job availability and other needed support services.
The licensing authority and/or legislature should allow
cities to participate in the search for facility locations in
order to meet needs of the providers, facility residents
and the neighborhood.
METROPOLITAN AGENCIES (110
Introduction: Metropolitan Governance Structure (110
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The Metropolitan Council was established in 1967 to coordinate "the
planning and development" of the seven county metropolitan area. To
fulfill its responsibilities, the Council has worked with local govemments
to establish policies regarding growth and development in the region.
Over the years, the Council has been authorized by the legislature to be
involved in the development of regional parks and in the operation of
regional services. In 1994, two independent agencies responsible for
transit and waste water disposal were merged into the Council.
In the following years the Council was mostly advisory, but was given
responsibility for regional policy development and coordination in the
areas of wastewater treatment, transportation and airports. The Council
was given limited approval authority for development proposals, which
were of metropolitan (regional) significance but was not given direct
operational authority.
The Metropolitan Council's responsibilities have been expanded over
the years. The Council was given direct operational responsibility for
regional transit and wastewater treatment in 1994. In the following year,
the legislature directed the Council to implement the Livable
Communities Act (LCA). The Council's role with the LCA is to negotiate
affordable and life cycle housing goals for cities and provide grant funds
for the clean-up of polluted lands and demonstration projects that foster
a mix of land uses and housing types. The Council's role has evolved
since its inception to long-range planning and the operation of regional
services.
Metropolitan Council Principles (IV -A)
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The Metropolitan Council is a planning and operating entity. The Council
is not only responsible for guiding the growth of the region but also
operates the region's wastewater disposal and transit systems.
As a planning and operating agency, the Council's policies and
guidelines impact local units of governments particularly cities. The
AMM, in framing its relationship with the Metropolitan Council, has
developed several principles that are incorporated into the following
policy areas.
Purpose of Metropolitan Governance (IV -B)
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The AMM affirms its support for the existence of a metropolitan
governance system to deal with appropriate regional issues and
concerns. The purpose of the metropolitan governance system should
be:
To facilitate region—wide planning with the cooperation and
consideration of the affected local units.
To provide certain region -wide services that do not duplicate
those that can be provided by local governmental units, either
individually orjointly.
To fulfill other specific responsibilities mandated by the state and
federal governments.
Criteria for Extension of Metropolitan Governance Authority (IV -C)
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The legislature, if granting the metropolitan governance structure
additional responsibility or authority, should be specific in the grant.
Additional new or expanded authority should be considered only when
one or more of the following exist:
The service, function or activity has been shown to be needed
and it can be demonstrated that it cannot or is not being
effectively or efficiently provided through existing general
purpose units of government.
The service, function or activity is not an appropriate state level
or local government level activity or function.
Regional intervention is needed for protection of the region's
investment in an existing metropolitan system.
Restructuring of Metropolitan Agencies (IV -D)
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The Sports Facilities Commission and the Metropolitan Airports
Commission (MAC) are currently metropolitan commissions. The
legislature should make the sports facility commission a local
commission if the back-up tax is limited to one city or is expanded to
additional cities. If the tax is extended to other cities, the commission
should be restructured to have membership from those cities.
The legislature should clarify the status of the MAC so that it becomes
either a metropolitan or state directed agency. The determining factor in
the agency decision is the nature of the commission's back-up tax. If the
tax will be a metropolitan area tax, its membership should come from
the metropolitan area. If the back-up tax is statewide, then the MAC
should have statewide representation.
Regionally Provided Services: Funding (IV -E)
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The Metropolitan Council should continue to fund its regional services
and activities through the existing combination of user fees, property
taxes, and state and federal grants. The current revenue system
provides better visibility to the customers of the expenditures and efforts
to move toward a single revenue source should be opposed.
The Metropolitan Council, in conjunction with the operating entities and
not the legislature, should be responsible for determining user fees. The
fees should be consistent with regional system plans and goals and be
established by an open, visible procedure including, but not limited to,
public notice and hearings. A clear linkage between revenue and
service should be maintained.
Coordination of Local & Regional Plans (IV -F)
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The regional investment in metropolitan systems must be maintained
and preserved by preventing adverse impact because of the lack of
integration and coordination between regional and local planning.
Regional system designation should only be approved if there is a
compelling metropolitan problem or concern that can best be addressed
through the designation.
The regional planning process must, on a continual basis, have the
input of local govemment officials. To ensure input, the Council should
hold hearings and provide public notice and copies of proposals
regarding amendments to the Metropolitan Development Guide.
Metropolitan system plans must be specific in terms of locations,
capacities and timing to allow for consideration in local comprehensive
planning. System plans should clearly state the criteria by which the
local plans will be judged for consistency. The system plans should also
clearly state the criteria that will be used to find that a local plan has a
substantial impact on or contains a substantial departure from the
metropolitan system plans.
The Metropolitan Council should continue to offer assistance to cities.
The assistance should include but not be limited to staff support,
research, policy guidelines, system statements and procedures for the
review and evaluation of plans and amendments.
The Metropolitan Council, in its review of local plan amendments, must
have a procedure that will.
Recognize that the Council's role is to review and comment,
unless there is a substantial impact on or departure from the
system plans.
Establish an open dialogue between cities and the Council,
including public meetings and public hearings.
Be• aware of the statutory time constraints imposed by the
legislature on plan amendments and development applications.
Provide for immediate effectuation of plan amendments, which
have no potential for substantial impact on systems plans.
Require the information needed for the Council to complete its
review, but not prescribe additional content or format beyond
that is required by the Metropolitan Land Planning Act (MLPA).
Metropolitan Council Focus on Planning (IV -G)
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For cities to meet their planning mandates, the Council must ensure that
its planning, data collection and dissemination functions are fulfilled in a
timely manner and are consistent with its statutory obligations.
Growth Management Strategy (IV -H)
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The Council should continue its discussions with officials in western
Wisconsin to encourage their adoption of effective growth control
measures. Further investment in transportation infrastructure with
Wisconsin should be contingent upon Wisconsin local governments and
their implementation of such controls.
The legislature should devise effective methods of ensuring responsible
and controlled development in counties surrounding the metropolitan
area.
The Metropolitan Council should continue its flexible guided growth
policy regarding Metropolitan Urban Service Area (MUSA) expansion
requests as outlined in the Regional Blueprint. However, the
Metropolitan Council must recognize that until there are effective growth
management strategies and tools beyond the metropolitan area,
tightening of MUSA expansion criteria within the metropolitan area will
cause one or more of the following:
Increased leapfrog development into adjacent counties and
Wisconsin.
Increased housing costs within the metropolitan area.
Decreased economic growth due to increased development
costs.
Increased development activity in the Rural Service Area.
Local Plan Implementation (IV -1)
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Local governments are responsible for zoning. These zoning decisions
should not be conditioned upon approvals by the Council or other
governmental agency. The AMM is open to the use of alternative
dispute resolution procedures prior to judicial remedies.
Alternative dispute resolution could reduce costs and time for all parties
involved in the dispute. The AMM strongly opposes the creation of an
appeals board that could supersede city planning or zoning decisions.
Budget Process & Work Program Evaluation (IV -J)
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Mandated and non -discretionary projects should be identified, along
with their funding sources and projects and activities which are
discretionary but totally or mostly funded by state or federal funds
should be identified. Previous year's expenditure history should also be
provided.
The annual budget should delineate the services fonnedy provided by
the operating agencies and the expenses and revenue for those
services should be clearly identified and linkages between expense and
revenue maintained. Further, the funds or reserve funds raised for a
particular service should not be used or commingled with the funds
raised for any other service or activity.
The Council's work program should meet four tests:
The issue or problem identified is important to the region's well
being.
Council intervention or activity will produce a positive result.
The Council's action does not duplicate or serve as a substitute
for a state level program or effort or what should be a state level
activity.
The Council is the most appropriate agency to intervene or
perform the activity.
Metropolitan Council: Method to Select Members (IV -K)
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The legislature has debated proposals to amend the process to select
Metropolitan Council members. Proposals to elect the members directly or to
elect county commissioners as council members have been discussed but not
enacted into law. The AMM has studied the governance issue and has released
a separate "Metropolitan Governance Report" (October 1998).
The report notes that there is no regional crisis that requires a governance
change, but did recommend that council members serve fixed, staggered terms.
The AMMfurther recommends that no changes be made to the metropolitan
council unless a governance proposal meets a set of criteria.
The intent of the criteria is to fashion a regional governance structure that has
a distinct mission, but does not establish apolitical subdivision with local
government powers or one that is a state agency. The Council should have a
distinct mission oflong- range planning and operation of legislatively -
authorized regional services. The criteria include:,
Terms of Office
Members should serve fixed staggered terms.
Council Powers
The Council should continue to be a long-range, planning agency and
potentially an operator or oversight agency for regional services. As such, the
Met Council must maintain planning, coordinating and local assistance as a
high priority.
Additional Powers
New powers must not expand or override city responsibilities, especially land
use regulation authority. The Met Council must not become an agency with
general local government powers.
State Role
The legislature shouldfocus on broad oversight of the Met Council's mission
and services.
Local Government
Local elected orcials must be involved in the selection process ofMet Council
members and there must be a mechanism to facilitate meaningful dialogue and
input between the Met Council and cities.
Collar Counties
The metropolitan region clearly includes the seven designated counties and the
adjacent eleven Minnesota counties, as well as three Wisconsin counties. The
needs of the entire metropolitan region beyond the current seven county region
must be addressed.
Met Council Members
The selection process must strive to appoint Met Council members who have an
understanding of and will be responsive to the district represented, as well as
be responsive to the best interests of the region. The selection process should
limit the potential influence and support (including financial) ofspecial
interests.
Parks & Open Space: Operation & Maintenance Capital Funding (IV -L)
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The governor and the legislature should continue to appropriate funding
for the operation and maintenance of regional parks. The level of
funding should be equal to the statutory goal of 40 percent of the total
budget. Regional parks essentially serve the role of state parks in the
metro area and the acquisition, development and improvement of the
parks should continue to be funded, in part, with state resources.
Surface & Groundwater Water Management (IV -M)
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If legislation is considered for surface water management, it should be
based on the following principles:
The legislature should provide full funding if it mandates
additional water management planning or implementing activities
by local units of government.
Local units of government should continue to be responsible for
surface and groundwater management, since they are the
closest to the problem.
New state requirements should not add to local costs and
duplicate reviews/approvals should be reduced or eliminated.
The AMM would support the following initiatives/action:
A thorough assessment of the Board and Water and Soil
Resources (BWSR) structure and authorities to ascertain if it
should continue to be the approval and oversight agency for
surface water management planning and activities in the
metropolitan area.
A thorough assessment of the metropolitan area surface water
management planning and permittinY process with the objective
of developing improvements in conflict resolution, better
coordination between state and local agencies, and streamlining
the project permit approvals process.
Compliance by local units of government located outside of the
metropolitan area with the same standards and requirements for
surface water management as those imposed on local units
within the metropolitan area.
A technical evaluation of the impact of 2:1 wetland replacement
in the urbanized area on the goal of greater urban densities as
stated in the Metropolitan Council's Regional Blueprint.
Water Supply (IV -N)
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Additional legislation pertaining to local or regional water supply
planning is not warranted. If legislation, however, is proposed it should
be based on the following principles:
Local units should retain the basic responsibility for water supply
planning and management as in current law.
The state should fund additional mandates.
Potable water should not be designated a regional system.
Regional Wastewater (Sewer) Treatment System (IV -0)
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The regional wastewater treatment system has improved the water
quality of the region's major river and lakes. The system should not be
permitted to break up or to diminish its effectiveness. Since all users
benefit equally, the regional rates should be uniform by type of user.
Waste Stream Management (IV -P)
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The legislature should enact legislation, which will:
Establish goals to reduce, recycle and reuse packaging
materials and establish fees, taxes or deposits to encourage
accomplishment of the goals. The revenues would be waived
when the goals are met. Available revenues would be used to
promote or enhance local programs to achieve the goals.
Continue the Office of Environmental Assistance (OEA) as an
agency that primarily assists local governments to manage
waste effectively.
Continue the role of cities in waste stream management unless a
state or metropolitan system is established to achieve the same
goal.
Distribute all proceeds from any funding system for solid waste
management activities and require distribution of funds to all
entities involved in the system.
Provide that host communities for solid waste facilities will not
have a financial liability for costs associated with operating and
monitoring the facility. Such costs should be borne by the
operator and in the absence of regulations should be assumed
by the state.
Maintain, at a minimum, the current compensation level
permitted through surcharge fees and increase the level as well
as making the compensation available to all types of solid waste
facilities.
Define municipal solid waste not to be a hazardous substance.
The definition would enhance the ability of local governments
involved in clean-ups to settle potential liability.
TRANSPORTATION (19
Transportation Funding (V-A)
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The AMM strongly supports increased funding for transit and highways,
both of which are a critical need in the metropolitan area. In addition,
funding for mass transit including transit ways, light rail or heavy rail in
existing corridors should be dedicated in a manner consistent with
current highway funding. Funds allocated to the metropolitan area
should be flexible so that the most efficient and cost effective
transportation solution may be chosen.
Funding needs in the next two decades far outstrip current funding
sources and rates. Therefore, the legislature should consider additional
funding and alternatives such as an increase in the gas tax, future
indexing of the gas tax, use of the motor vehicle sales tax (formerly
MVET), use of a certain percentage of the state general fund, a
dedicated portion of the general sales tax, a sales tax on gasoline at the
pump, state bonding authority for major projects, or a combination of
these.
If an altemative to the transit property tax in the metropolitan area is
adopted, current opt -out transit systems should continue to be funded at
comparable levels.
Regional Transit System (V -B)
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The Regional Transit System should be a combination of integrated
traffic management systems which include use of HOV lanes, express
buses, exclusive transit ways, light rail transit, and commuter rail
corridors built to connect residents to job, retail and commercial centers,
plus a variety of other transit modes, including taxi, bus, pedestrian and
bicycle.
Park-and-ride facilities for mass transit modes adequate to connect the
regional centers, major trip generators and communities, both urban and
suburban, should have integrated feeder systems to accommodate local
buses, automobiles, van pools, bicycles, as well as walking facilities.
The Metropolitan Council should work with local units of government to
encourage appropriate land use controls along designated transit
corridors to promote transit ridership.
Transportation Incentives & Disincentives (V -C)
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The AMM supports the development of a comprehensive system that
will facilitate an increase in the occupancy level of cars, reduce
commuter trips and enhance the use of transit within the metropolitan
area through the use of tax incentives and/or impact fees that
encourages multiple occupancy transit use, the exclusion from gross
income the value of commuter transportation benefits provided by an
employer, and/or a tax deduction and tax credit for employers who
provide commuter transportation benefits to employees.
Transportation Utility (V -D)
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The AMM requests the legislature to authorize cities to establish a
transportation utility for street maintenance and reconstruction of aging
infrastructure, similar to the existing storm water utility, so that costs of
improved facilities can be more fairly charged to the users rather than
the general population as a whole.
Highway Turnbacks & Funding (V -E)
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The AMM supports jurisdictional reassignment or tumback of roads on a
phased basis using functional classification and other appropriate
criteria subject to a corresponding mechanism for adequate funding of
roadway improvements and continuing maintenance.
Cities do not currently have the financial capacity other than significant
property tax increase to absorb the additional roadway responsibilities
without new funding sources. The existing municipal tumback fund is
not adequate based on contemplated tumbacks.
3C' Transportation Planning Process: Elected Officials Role (V -F)
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The AMM supports continuation of the Transportation Advisory Board
TAB), a majority of local elected officials membership on the TAB itself
and the TAB process, which was developed to meet federal
requirements for designation of the Metropolitan Council as the
Metropolitan Planning Organization that is responsible for the
continuous, comprehensive and cooperative (3C) transportation
planning process to allocate federal funds among metro area projects.
This process requirement was reinforced by the ISTEA Act of 1991 and
the 1998 Transportation Efficiency Act for the 21st Century (TE421).
Motion Imaging Recording System (M.I.R.S.): Traffic Law Compliance (V -G)
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The AMM requests legislative action authorizing utilization of motion
imaging recording system technology for governmental units, including
cities, on streets and highways to assist promotion of safety and traffic
law compliance enforcement. The technology has been proven and is
currently used for law enforcement by numerous states, municipalities
and other countries. The state should consider a pilot project on
municipal streets in the metropolitan area.
Airport Noise Mitigation (V -H)
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In 1996, the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) was charged with
developing a mitigation package for legislative consideration in 1997,
but the package was never developed. Costs associated with noise
mitigation should be bome by the airport (MAC) and the state since the
airport is considered a statewide facility. Noise mitigation programs
need to be enhanced to beyond the current 60 DNL contours for
existing and future impacted areas.
Impacts, including environmental and low frequency noise, must be
identified at all MAC airports and applicable mitigation measures
implemented by MAC. By the year 2000, the Environmental Quality
Board (EQB) should establish guidelines for airport noise (including low
frequency) in consultation with the MAC, Metropolitan Council, MSP
Noise Mitigation Committee and affected cities. This may include
expansion of the sound insulation program to the 55 DNL.
The MAC should establish a plan to assure funding for required
environmental impact mitigation for legislative action by the conclusion
of the 2000 Session and levy a property tax on MAC -owned and leased
property if it is not approved. Due to an operations increase of 27
percent by 2010, noise impact fees should be created to encourage
conversion to real stage 111 aircraft.
This policy is not intended to impact airport development or construction
decisions.
Road Access Charge (V-1)
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In order to fairly provide for major street improvements of primary
benefit to a particular subdivision development but not directly
assessable and to allocate cost so that new growth pays its fair share,
the legislature should authorize cities to establish at their option a road
access charge to be levied on an area or per lot basis at the time that
subdivisions are approved or at the time building permits are issued
similar to park dedication fees.
COMMITTEES (VI)
Housing & Economic Development (VI -A)
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Craig Waldron (Chair) , Administrator, Oakdale
Beverly Aplikowski, Councilmember, Arden Hills
Kirstin Barsness, Director of Economic Development, Cottage Grove
Janis Callison, Councilmember, Minnetonka
Dennis Cavanaugh, Councilmember, St. Anthony
Dan Donahue, Manager, New Hope
Gail Dorfman, Mayor, St. Louis Park
Mike Ericson, Assistant Manager, Maplewood
Mike Freeburg, Councilmember, Anoka
John Goedeke, Councilmember, Roseville
Regina Hams, HRA Director, Bloomington
Andrea Hart Kajer, IGR Director, Minneapolis
Coral Houle, Mayor, Bloomington
Gonion Hughes, Assistant Manager, Edina
Marvin Johnson, Mayor, Independence
Dwight Johnson, Manager, Plymouth
Jane Kansier, Planning Coordinator, Prior Lake
Kathy Lanhy, Councilmember, St. Paul
Jan LeSuer, Councilmember, Golden Valley
Joan Molenaar, Councilmember, Champlin
Ron Rankin, Community Development Director, Minnetonka
Maris Sather, Manager, White Bear Lake
Cad Schmidt, Assistant to City Manager, Mounds View
Mark Senn, Councilmember, Chanhassen
Kathy Thurber, Councilmember, Minneapolis
Jerry Tumquist, Councilmember, Oak Park Heights
Liz Workman, Councilmember, Burnsville
Metropolitan Agencies (VI -S)
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Terry Schneider (Chair) , Councilmember, Minnetonka
Bill Barnhart, Government Relations Representative, Minneapolis
Kevin Batchelder, Administrator, Mendota Heights
Bob Bruton, Councilmember, North St. Paul
Cathy Busho, Mayor, Rosemount
Sharon Feess, Councilmember, Brooklyn Paris
Matt Fulton, Manager, New Brighton
Thomas Goodwin, Councilmember, Apple Valley
Tom Harren, Planner, St. Paul
Ken Hartung, Administrator, Bayport
Susan Hoyt, Administrator, Falcon Heights
Anne Hudburt, Director of Community Development, Plymouth
Barbara Johnson, Councilmember, Minneapolis
E Gary Joselyn, Councilmember, Crystal
Rick Kelley, Community Development Director, Apple Valley
Lary Lee, Director of Community Development, Bloomington
Tom Link, Director of Development & Prot. Serv., Inver Grove Heights
Paul Malone, Councilmember, Arden Hills
Mary Helen Mischa, IGR Assistant, St. Paul
Mark Nagel, Manager, Anoka
Jim Norman, Administrator, Ramsey
Don Rye, Planning Director, Prior Lake
Dave Schaaf, Mayor, Oak Park Heights
Charlotte Shover, Councilmember, Bumsville
Jill Smith, Councilmember, Mendota Heights
James Smith, Councilmember, Independence
Russ Susag, Councilmember, Richfield
Eric Thole, Councilmember, Stillwater
Joy Tiemey, Mayor, Plymouth
Sherry Timmerman, Councilmember, Oakdale
Kurt Ulrich, Administrator, Champlin
Chuck Whiting, Administrator, Mounds View
Donn Wiski, Councilmember, Roseville
Municipal Revenue & Taxation (VI -C)
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Frank Boyles (Chair) , Manager, Prior Lake
Leslie Anderson, Director of Finance, Burnsville
Gene Anderson, Councilmember, St. Paul Park
Karen Anderson, Mayor, Minnetonka
Curt Boganey, Manager, Brooklyn Park
Edward Burrell, Treasurer & Finance Director, Roseville
Thomas Burt, Administrator, Rosemount
Dave Callister, ClerkAdministrator, Osseo
Joan Campbell, Councilmember, Minneapolis
Tom Cran, Budget Analysis, St. Paul
Steve Devich, Administrative Services Director, Richfield
Terry Dussault, Asst. to Manager, Blaine
Margaret Egan, Finance Director, New Brighton
Dan Faust, Finance Director, Maplewood
John Gretz, Administer, Apple Valley
Tem Heaton, Chief Finance Officer, Bloomington
Jon Hohenstein, Administrator, Mahtomedi
Bill Huepenbecker, IGR Director, St. Paul
James Keinath, Administrator, Circle Pines
Jim Knutson, Finance Director, Anoka
Bob Larson, Administrator, Deephaven
Tom Melena, Administrator, Oak Park Heights
Steve Mielke, Manager, Hopkins
John Moir, Finance Officer, Minneapolis
Mike Morrison, Manager, St. Anthony
Steve O'Malley, Deputy City Manager, Burnsville
Douglas Reeder, Adminstrator, South St Paul
Janet Robert, Councilmember, Oak Park Heights
Ryan Schroeder, Administrator, Cottage Grove
James Smith, Councilmember, Independence
Jerry Splinter, Manager, Coon Rapids
Joy Tierney, Mayor, Plymouth
Kurt Ulrich, Administrator, Champlin
Gene Van Overbeke, Finance Director, Eagan
John Wallin, Finance Director, Edina
John Weaver, Councilmember, Anoka
Jim Willis, Adminstrator, Inver Grove Heights
Transportation & General Govemment (VI -D)
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Veid Muiznieks (Chair) , Councilmember, St. Paul Park
Gene Anderson, Councilmember, St. Paul Park
Bill Barnhart, Government Relations Representative, Minneapolis
Geralyn Barone, Assistant City Manager, Minnetonka
Lyle Berg, Engineer Trac & Transportation, Bloomington
David Childs, Manager, Minnetonka
Charlie Crichton, Councilmember, Burnsville
Jerry Dulgar, Manager, Crystal
Dale Gusafson, Councilmember, Brooklyn Park
Natalie Haas Steffen, Councilmember, Ramsey
Gary Humphrey, Mayor, Apple Valley
Gloria Johnson, Councilmember, Golden Valley
Mike Klassen, Trak Engineer, St. Paul
Sandra Krebsbach, Councilmember, Mendota Heights
Charles Lenthe, Director ofPublic Works, Blaine
Dennis Maetzold Councilmember, Edina
Sandra Masin, Councilmember, Eagan
Mark McNeill, Administrator, Shakopee
Dore Mead, Councilmember, Minneapolis
Charlie Meyer, Manager, St. Louis Park
Mary Helen Mische, IGR Assistant, St. Paul
Lynn Moratzko, Councilmember, Hastings
Dave Schaaf, Mayor, Oak Park Heights
Mark Senn, Councilmember, Chanhassen
Ceil Smith, Assistant to City Manager, Edina
Dawn Weitzel, Community/Special Project Assistant, Richfield
Donn Wiski, Councilmember, Roseville
Bret Woodson, Assistant City Manager, Prior Lake