HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992-03-31 CC Packet Special Meeting~(~ ~ ~ .
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THE BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA
March 27, 1992
M E M 0
T0: MAYOR AND COUNCIL
FROM: MARY LOU JOHNSON, CITY CLERK
SUBJECT: SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING, 4:30 P.M., TUESDAY,-MARCH 31, 1992.
• This memo is a reminder to Council that a Special Meeting has been scheduled
for Tuesday afternoon, March 31, 1992, at 4:30 P.M., in the City Hall Council
Chambers, 216 No. Fourth Street, Stillwater, Minnesota to discuss the
following:
1. Workshop with Owners of the Stillwater Yacht Club and Stillwater Dock
Association.
2. Resolution appointing Councilmembers to the various Wards for .the Fall
Elections.
3. Set Workshop for April 14 for Consideration of Request for TIF Assistance.
4. Any other business Council may wish to discuss.
CITY HALL: 216 NORTH FOURTH STILLWATER, MINNESOTA 55082 PHONE: 612-439-6121
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Mayor Abrahamson
City of Stillwater.
216 North Fourth St.
Stillwater, MN 55082
Dock Association of Stillwater
P.O. Box 26125
Shoreview, MN 55126
March 18, 1992
Reference: Meeting - Dock Association of Stillwater and City.
Dear Mayor Abrahamson:
Per your phone conversation with Mr. Jim Borucki on 3/12/92 regarding the
above mentioned meeting, we would most gladly attend. Thank you for your
invitation. We feel a meeting with yourself and possibly the new Police
Chief and other concerned parties would be :most productive. Following is
listed some of the Board and membership concerns that may be addressed:
A. Crowd control in and about Popey's and parking area - to maintain
an environment suitable to residential living;
• B. Trespassing by persons drawn to this area by Popey's in the context
of a residential environment;
C. Launch ramp management and ramp patron (customer) boat docking facilities,
etc.
D. Police patrols as related to above;
E. Parking availability for Dock Association members if or when Mulberry
Point is changed to a park. Access to our facility based on changes
and suitable parking and overnight/hourly restriction;
Above item E. is of considerable concern to our members totaling "157" individual
slit ~r;:n~rs of which 114 use the Mulberry Point parking and access tc the
docks. The Dock Association of Stillwater pays one half of all taxes assessed
to the Stillwater Yacht Club location. Our 1992 budget is approximately.
$40,000.00 for tax payments.. This is pointed out only as a reminder that
we feel our membership is "residence in good community standing" and our
legal interest should be protected.
Rumors abound, plans change, ideas come and go and the downtown. plan presses
on, but in what direction?? We support upgrading and improvement, but not
at the expense of our parking rights and access to our docks. There was
a proposal that indicated alternate parking would be suitable but now this
does not seem so. Our members purchased these slips based on existing documents
and assurances that certain things would not "go away" that would decrease
the value and function of that property.
I reference attachment No. 1. - Our members made their investment in the
Stillwater community "in trust" that this letter of assurances to Paul A. Scherber,
his successors and assigns was of value as notarized and would be honored
by future city officials.
Page 1 of 2
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March 18, 1992
We are very concerned as to what the city intends to do with Mulberry Point.
We feel little is being considered from our point of view and hope to become
better informed at this meeting as our rights are not being represented by
either Popey's or S.Y.C.
Change does not cause us t~ be concerned providing change includes our rights
as citizens in good community standing based on the document held, natural
access needs of any residential property occupant.
Please contact us regarding the time we may be able to discuss these concerns.
I thank you in advance for'~your kind attention regarding the above.
Sincerely,
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Ralph A. Bache
Dock Association of Stillwater
RB/sem
Encl.
For phone contact please call:
Ralph Bache at 430-3560 or
Jim Borucki at 483-8584'
cc. Neil Kriesel - City coordinator
Steve Russel - City Pllanner
David Magnuson - Citp Attorney
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RESOLUTION
CITY OF STILLWATER '~
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA l
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BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Stillwater as j
follows: •!..
1. That at a meeting of the City Council held in the City Council
Chambers on June 25, 1985, information was presented concerning the
proposed purchase of Muller Boat Works and Purina by Paul A. Scherber.
2. That the council was assured that Paul A. Scherber plans to
invest substantial sums of money in the development, redevelopment and
renovation of the Muller property.
3. That Paul A. Scherber has determined that his plans for purchase
and redevelopment are possible only if he has the continued assurance that
the Marina will have certain rights in a parcel of land shown on Exhibit
"A", that~is owned by the Northern Pacific Railway Company and its
successors, and leased to Muller Boat Works, lying to the North and West
of what is commonly .known as "Mulberry Point".
4. That the city hereby assures Paul ~A. Scherber that it would not
oppose the purchase of this property by Paul A. Scherber directly from
the railroad. Further, that the city would use all power legally avail-
able including Eminent Domain, to insure that Paul A. Scherber and his
successors and assigns will have the same rights as the general public
• now has to use the parcel of land for roadway and parking purposes, and
that Paul A. Scherber and his successors and assigns will have exclusive
riparian rights to this parcel on the condition and only so long as a
Plarina is operated on the adjoining site.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Stillwater, this 25th
day of June, 1985.
H rry eterson, Mayor
Attest:
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Mary Lou J hnson, C1 '1
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Subscribed and swor~n~ to before me - 'jj
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thi s ~~ day of 19 ~S, ~;
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:~;_` NiLE L. KRIESEL
~ %'~ ~~ ~ NOTARY PUBLIC- MINNESOTA
WASHINGTON CaUNT~
My Commis+lon Ex~
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RESOLUTION N0. 92-85
APPOINTMENT OF CITY COUNCILMEMBERS
TO CITY WARDS.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Stillwater,
Minnesota that the following Councilmembers shall be appointed to represent a
specific City Ward, as indicated, for Election purposes for the 1992 and 1994
City Elections:
Ann Bodlovick -Ward 4
Thomas Farrell -Ward 2
Gary Funke - Ward 1
Roberta Opheim -Ward 3
Adopted by Council this 31st day of March, 1992.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK
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THE BIflTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA
MEMORANDUM
T0: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
FROM: STEVE RUSSELL, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR ~-~/
DATE: MARCH 27, 1992
SUBJECT: PREAPPLICATION REVIEW FOR TIF ASSISTANCE
The City has received a request for TIF assistance from
Ryan Construction Company to assist in the construction of
roads and to provide utility improvements. The project.
being proposed is a 241,500 square foot shopping center
located west and south of extended Curve Crest Boulevard.
It is suggested the Council consider setting a workshop
meeting for April 14, 1992 at 4:30 P. M.
• RECOMMENDATION:
Set workshop meeting for April 14, 1992.
CITY HALL: 216 NORTH FOURTH STILLWATER, MINNESOTA 55082 PHONE: 612-439-6121
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CITY OF STILLWATER
PRE-APPLICATION
TAX INCREMENT FINANCING ASSISTANCE
Legal name of applicant: Ryan Construction Company of Minnesota, Inc.
Address: 700 International Centre, 900 2nd Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Telephone number:
612-339-9847
Name of contact person:
REQUESTED INFORMATION
William J. McHale or Vincent J. Driessen
Addendums shall be attached hereto addressing in detail the following:
1. A map showing the exact boundaries of proposed development.
2. Give a general description of the project including: size and
location of building(s); business type or use; traffic
information including parking, projected vehicle counts and traffic
flow; timing of the project; other .pertinent information.
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3. The existing Comprehensive Plan Land Use designation and zoning of
the property. Include a statement as to how the proposed development
will conform to the land use designation and how. the property will be
zoned. Explain any discrepancies between the proposed development and
the existing land use designation and zoning.
4.~ A statement identifying the public improvements requested to be
financed and why the costs of the improvement cannot be paid by the
developer.
5. A statement identifying the public benefits of the proposal including
estimated increase in property valuation, new jobs to be created and
other community assets.
6. A written perspective of the developers company or corporation,
principals, history and past projects.
Applicant understands and agrees that the information contained in this
application, and the information contained in items above, is intended for use
by the City of Stillwater, its officers, employees, and agents in connection
with the City's consideration of possible tax increment bond financing for
applicant's project; however, the City gives no assurance that this
information may not be disclosed, in whole or part, to persons other than
City's officials, employees and agents.
SIGNATURE RYAN CON~~RIIC±~I10N ~OI~P
Applicant's signature
OF MINNESOTA, INC.
Date By. W•Jv McHale, Vice President
March ~n, I~~
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OF TRP~
March 25, 1992
Minnesota Department of Transportation
Transportation Building, St. Paul, MN 55155
Wally Abrahamson, Mayor,
City of Stillwater
216 N. 4th Street
Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
Attn: Steve Russel, Community Development Director
In Reply refer to: Agreement # 69356, T.H.36 Traffic Study
Dear Mr. Russel:
Enclosed are five copies of the above referenced agreement.
If this meets with your approval, please sign all five copies and
return to me at Room 720S, Transportation Building, St. Paul,
Minnesota 55155.- I have been ,assigned as the agreement
administrator for this project.
Executed copies of the agreements between your firm and your
subconsultants must also be sent to this office with the above
submittals.
A copy of the agreement will be furnished to you when it is fully
executed by the State.
Sincerely, /
Alex Chernyaev, P.E. ~/
Assistant Consultant Agreements Engineer
Enclosures
Arr Equal Oppurn~nftt~ £rnplc~eer
1"
-~ - - __ .
Trn. No.
FY
Account f.0.
Dept./Div.
Sequence No. ...~
Suffix vv• ••
Object ..v .~V• V7JJ
Vendor V
Type
Amount
urchase Terms Asset No. C.CD. 1 C.CD. 2 C.CD. 3 Cost Code 4 Cost Code 5
.Type of Transaction ~ A 40 ^ A 41 Date Number Entered By
A 44 ~ A 45 ^ A 46 Date Number Entered By
NOTICE TO CONTRACTOR:You are required by Minnesota Statutes, 1986, Section 270.66 to provide your social security. number or Minnesota
tax identification number if you do business with the State of Minnesota. This information may be used in the enforcement of federal and state
tax laws. Supplying these numbers could result in action to require you to file state tax returns and pay delinquent state tax liabilities. This
contract wilt not be approved unless these numbers are provided. These numbers will be available to federal and state tax authorities and
state personnel involved in the payment of state obligations.
THIS CONTRACT, which shall be interpreted pursuant to the laws of the State of Minnesota, between the State of Minnesota, acting
through its_ Commissioner of Transportation
(hereinafter STATE) and City of Si i l l tea+c.r
address 216 North 4th Street
Stillwa r Minn tnta 08
Soc. Sec. or MN Tax I.D. No. Federal Employer I.D. No. (if applicable)
(hereinafter CONTRACTOR), witnesseth that:
WHEREAS, the STATE, ursuant to Minnesota Statutes 1990 SeCt10nS 15.061 and 16B .17
isempoweredt emp~oy such personnel as t e Commissioner of Transportation deems necessary
to disc arge a unc ions o is o ice
sand
WHEREAS, _the State does not have available the necessary qualified personnel and
facilities to conduct the re uested stud ,and
EAS, CONTRACTOR represents that it is duly qualified and willing to perform the services set forth herein,
NOW, THEREFORE, it is agreed:
I. CONTRACTOR'S DUTIES (Attach additional page if necessary which is incorporated by reference and made a part of this agreement.)
CONTRACTOR, who is not a state employee, shall:
Prepare T.H. 36 Stillwater/OAK Park Heights Traffic Study as described
in Attachment A.
CONSIDERATION AND TERMS OF PAYMENT
A. Consideration for all services performed and goods or materials supplied by CONTRACTOR pursuant to this contract shall be
paid by the STATE as follows:
1. Compensation Lump SUm__of $3,000.00
2. Reimbursement for travel and subsistence expenses actually and necessarily incurred by CONTRACTOR performance of
this contract in an amount not to exceed Not Applicable dollars
($ ); provided, that CONTRACTOR shall be reimbursed for travel and subsistence expenses
in the same manner and in no greater amount than provided in the current "Commissioner's Plan" promulgated by the
Commissioner of Employee Relations. CONTRACTOR shall not be reimbursed for travel and subsistence expenses incurred
outside the State of Minnesota unless it has received prior written approval for such out of state travel from the STATE.
The total obligation of the STATE for all compensation and reimbursements to CONTRACTOR shall not exceed
Three Thousand dollars ($ _3,000.00 ).
t3. Terms of Payment
1. Payments shall be made by the STATE promptly after CONTRACTOR'S presentation of invoices for services performed
and acceptance of such services by the STATE'S authorized agent pursuant to Clause VI. Invoices shall be submitted in a
form prescribed by the STATE and according to the following schedule:
100 payment will be made upon 100q completion and acceptance of the work.
2. (When applicable) Payments are to be made from federal funds obtained by the STATE through Title of the
Nnt dnnli~~,~~a Act of
(Public law and amendments thereto. If at any time such
funds become unavailable, this contract shall be terminated immediately upon written notice of such fact by the STATE
to CONTRACTOR. In the event of such termination, CONTRACTOR shall be entitled to payment, determined on a pro
rata basis, for services satisfactorily performed.
D-00032-05 (8-90)
ADMIN. 1051)
STAFF REQUEST ITEM
DEPARTMENT Administration MEETING DATE ~~larch 31, 1992
DESCRIPTION OF REQUEST (Briefly outline what the request is):
Request approva-1 to send seven employees to Munici-Pals Spring evening Meeting
at the International P~larket Square in f~1inneapolis on April 23, 1992.
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Briefly outline the cots, if any, that are associated with this
request and the proposed source of the funds needed to fund the request)
$21.00/each - Total of $147.00 (the funds are in the budget)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ATTACHED: YES NO
ALL COUNCIL REQUEST ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE CITY CLERK A MINIMUM OF FIVE
WORKING DAYS PRIOR TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED COUNCIL MEETING IN ORDER TO
PLACED IN THE COUNCIL MATERIAL PACKET.
SUBMITTED BY: Mary LOU Johnson, City Clerk DATE: 3/27/92
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Effective Learning Through Excellence in Education
STILLWATER
AREA SCHOOLS 1875 SOUTH GREELEY STREET
STILLWATER, MINNESOTA 55082
430-8200 • V-TDD
March 20, 1992
T0: School Board Me rs
FROM: Dave Wettergren
RE: Judy Gulden - Washington School Property
Accompanying. this cover memo is a correspondence from Judy Gulden
which is helpful to read for it sets forth quite clearly her.
position on the Washington School property. It is my assumption
that she will be presenting this with supporting petitions at the
April 6 meeting. I notice either she or others are posting
notices in various places announcing the meeting and encouraging
people to fight for preservation of the playground area and
• ballfield.
I have sent a letter to Mayor Abrahamson inviting City of
Stillwater representatives to attend the meeting for it is
obvious the strategy will be to place pressure on both of us on
this issue. I am also copying him this communication.
Prior to April 6 Board Chair Zinnel and I will finalize the
format for the meeting. Right now I do not anticipate a very
formal presentation - maybe just a few remarks to set the stage
for receiving community input. If you have any specific sugges-
tions let us know.
After the Aprii 6 meeting we may want to meet with some represen-
tatives of the City to discuss their thoughts on the Washington
School property as well as Stillwater Junior High.
DLW/ j e
encls.
cc: Mayor Abrahamson
Cabinet
An Equal Opportunity Employer
Board of Education STEVE ZINNEL SUZANNE THOMSEN LYMAN GEARY KAREN ROSE
Chairperson Clerk Director Director
LOUISE JONES LYNN SCHMIDT ROLAND BUCHMAN DAVID WETTERGREN
Vice Chairperson Treasurer Director Superintendent
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218 N. Martha ~ ~v - ~ G(
Stillwater, MN 55082 ,~, ~~
March 17, 1992 _ •
Dr. David Wettergren
Members of the Boazd
Stillwater Area Schools
1875 South Greeley Street
Stillwater, MN 55082
Deaz Dr. Wettergren:
'Thank you for your efforts to provide additional information to the public so that there may be a
better understanding of the issues regazding the disposition of the Washington property. We aze
looking forwazd to the April 6 meeting.
Ou intention is to work with all parties involved to continue to improve our community.
Enclosed is information that we would like to share with the persons attending the April b meeting.
We would like to include these enclosures as handouts with any other materials made available to
the audience. We will provide printed copies.
The vision is conxinued dedication of the play and ballfield space for park purposes and
maintaining the heritage of thc- neighborhood. With careful planning and cooperation, the new
occupants of the building could coexist with the play space and ballfield. When the opportunity
presents itself, we will offer hospitality to our new neighbors.
We are interested in knowing who in addition yourself and the school boazd have been invited to
the April 6 meeting.
If you would like to discuss the ballfield/playground preservation efforts, or if you have comments
regarding the enclosures, please feel free to contact me at 439-8368
Sincerely,
~~L~
J. Gu den
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Ball Field and Playground
at the old Washington School Site
2 blocks west of the Stillwater Library
Donations and Improvements
• We received a $100 donation from the Stillwater Elks Lodge to apply towards swing seats.
• Anew aluminum picnic table with a wheel chair accessible table top was donated by John
Bourdaghs, Shorty's Cleaners, Stillwater.
• St. Croix Recreation, Stillwater, donated labor to assemble and install the picnic table.
• .School District 834 expanded and paved the pazking lot and added a sign directing parking.
• School District 834 graded and added gravel to the ball field.
• Flowers were planted in the donated pots, and a small flower gazden started.
• Sentence to Serve Program, Washington County, trimmed weeds around the equipment
and fences.
• City of Stillwater improvements to Mulberry Street and sidewalks have made accessibility
more attractive and easier.
Future Improvements -Good things keep happening.
• A grant from Stillwater Valley Access Channel was awazded, and a video is being
produced which will document the community working together.
• The Stillwater Elks Lodge expressed interested in purchasing a spring mounted riding
horse and see-saw. Both aze designed for safety and movement.. for children with various
abilities. Each has extra handles and a wide surface for seating. These units are not installed in
concrete, thus making a change in their location easily made. The Elks also indicated interest in
a contribution for improving the path to made to the picnic area.
• Abrahamson Nursery, Stillwater, has offered low maintenance scrubs and a shade tree.
• Dunker Landscaping, Stillwater, offered wood beams and sand for sand landings.
• Courage Center, Stillwater, will recommend handicapped accessible equipment.
• Sentence to Serve Program, Washington County, is available to help with weed trimming.
• The Bird House, Oak Pazk Heights, is interested in donating bird feeders and discount feed,
and local bird enthusiasts want to promote bird watching at the site. Birds aze attracted to a
ravine one half block from the site.
• Rose Floral and Garden Center, Stillwater, has offered to donate flowers, and volunteers
are eager to expand the flower gazden.
The cooperation, generosity and leadership of individuals, civic groups,
community leaders and volunteers make Stillwater the. best place to call home.
~ This community Works together!
It is a vision that the Ballfeld and Playground continue to be dedicated for pazk purposes to serve
the adults, children, teens, seniors and families that make their home in the St. CroixValley.
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Dear Neighbors and Friends,
It is a vision that the Ballfield and Playground on the old Washington
School Site will be improved and continue to be dedicated for park
purposes for the adults, children, teenagers,
make their home in the St. Croix Valley.
To this end we wish to discuss the following:
families and seniors that
Chidren at Play
The need for children to play has become increasingly critical in our society. Play serves to
strengthen and balance the development of childrens' minds and bodies. Play space should be
easily accessible for all children. Play provides a child with a sense of security and creative
experiences.
Family
Central to the success of our cgmmunity is the family with all its privileges and needs -one of
which is interaction. This playground fills a vital role in family interaction - family fun and
outdoor learning..
Heritage
The Washinton School property has been in continuous use. since 1939. This historical land has
contributed to the heritage of t~is area and was established as a community landmark long before
farm land was transformed into housing developments and commercial acquisitions.
Open Ureen Space
Development has expanded outward from the hub of "old towne" Stillwater and the need for open
green space is vital. Open green space plays a role in the preservation of bird life, clean air and the
physical and psychological will being of an ever growing population.
This Ball Field and. Playground IS THE OPEN t"TREEN SPACE OF THE WESTERN
SIDE OF THE NORTH HILL.
Population and Development
The population is dense within the several block radius around the ballfield and playground.
The approximate boundaries of neighborhood aroundthe playground/ballfield include:
north to south: Myrtle to the North Hill ravine area
east to west: 4th St. to Owens
Economic
The presence of a ball field and park is attractive to homebuyers who contribute to the tax base of
the city and county and school district. As neighborhood residents retire and sell to younger
families they make substantial improvements which are increase property values.
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Location
Children can reach this location safely and easily. Traffic is light and off street parking is available.
Because of its central location, the Washington property provides easy access to diverse services.
• A variety of businesses and churches service this area. Just to name afew - the Stillwater Library,
Holiday Food Store, Nelson's Dairy, Valley Co-Op, Greeley Street Building, Greeley Nursing
Home, Davian Building, North Hill Video, Trinity Church, Ascension Church and City Hall .
Day in and day out residents drive, walk, roller skate, jog and bike to this ballfield and play area.
Many just to relax by themselves or with their children in this quiet space.
It's common to see teens pile out of a car eating a Nelson's ice-cream cone before a game of
basketball, or a group of girls play kickball or chase .When the ground is bazely cleared of snow
eager younsters and fathers practice hitting a few balls or playing catch.
Public Use Since 1939
This open space has been in continuous use since 1939. In many respects, Stillwataer planning
and the creation of recreational locations was developed around the existence of this open park
space available for the public. It benefits the community that this public recreation area continue to
be dedicated for pazk purposes.
Everyone Benefits
Open green space, recreation space, increased property values and happy children contribute to the
vitality of the community. The vitality and prosperity of each community m the the St. Croix Valley
benefits the City of Stillwater, Washington County and as a result, School District 834. Benefits.
are a win for all.
Planning for Continued Dedication for Park Purposes
School District 834 has no primary responsibility to designate land for outdoor learning and
• recreation. However, for the school district to facilitate preservation of this ballfield/playground
will be in the best interest of the school children and the community which it serves.
People Want This Ball. Field and Playground
Increasing numbers of residents have signed petitions, made phone calls and inquiries and talked
with elected members of school board and local government officials asking that the ballfield and
playground continue to be dedicated for pazk purposes.
In the spirit of community pride we are asking
What steps need to be taken for this community to continue. dedication. of this
ballfield -and playground for park purposes?
What is the response of the school district to the request that this playground and
ballfield continue to be dedicated for park purposes?
What is the response of local government to the request for continued dedication
of this ballfield and playground for park purposes?
What more can we as residents do to assit you, the City and School Board, to
dedicated this ballfield and playground for park purposes?
Cooperative efforts and thoughful planning improve life in our
community.
Thank you.
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THE BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA
MEMORANDUM
T0: MAYOR AND COUNCIL
FROM: .ANN PUNG-TERWEDO, PLANNER
DATE: MARCH 26 ,1992
SUBJECT: WETLAND CONSERVATION ACT OF 1991
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
In response to growing concern about wetlands, the
Minnesota Legislature approved the Wetland Conservation Act
of 1991. This new law went into effect January 1, 1992 and
is an interim period until the Board of Water and Soil
Resources adopts permanent rules for this new law.
Basically, the law states that no landowner may not drain,
burn or fill any wetland regardless of its size or type.
. The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) is
the lead State agency responsible for carrying out the. act
across the State; however, local units of government are
responsible for administering the act within their
jurisdictional boundaries. The Washington .County Soil and
Water Conservation District (SWCDO is the "information
clearinghouse" for the .new law.
The attached gives an overview of the regulation.
CITY HALL: 216 NORTH FOURTH STILLWATER, MINNESOTA 55082 PHONE: 612-439-6121.
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NEW WETLAND PPOTECTION LAW I~PAC1'S ~A1~14A+ERS & DEilELOPERS
Anyone who is proposing to drain, fill, or burn a wetland, has
new state regulations to follow. This is all part of the state's
effort to help protect wetlands.
For many years, wetlands were considered. wastelands. Wetlands
were drained or filled to make way for development and
agricultural production. Recently, the public has become more
and more. aware of the important niche wetlands fill in our
ecosystem. Among other things, wetlands can provide natural
flood control, fish and wildlife habitat, a "filter" for
treatment of polluted runoff water, recreation, and ground water
recharge.
In response to this growing concern, the Minnesota Legislature
approved the Wetland Conservation Act of 1991. This new law went
.into effect January 1, 1992. .The law is in addition to existing
state and -federal laws regulating wetlands and is meant- to
.protect additional wetlands that .are not currently afforded.
adequate protection. The goal of the new law is .a :net gain~in
the number and acres of wetland in Minnesota:- The Minnesota
-Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) is the lead state agency
responsible for carrying out-the act across-the state; however,
local units of, government are responsible for administering the
-act- withintheir_jurisdictional boundaries. `-The "Department of
Natural Resources (DNR) also. plays-a strong role _,:in_th.e act,.
mostly in .the areas of .technical support and .enforcement.
Now, ..and until the BWSR adopts permanent rules for>this law on
-July 1, 1993, landowners may not drain, burn - or -fill any
wetland, regardless of it's size or type. During this .interim
period however, t ere are exemptions to the prohibition: ;`Among
them are development projects .and drainage-system:-improvements
.that received approval within five years prior-to August 1, 1991.
-Also exempt, are wetlands that have been planted with annually
seeded crops six of the last ten years prior to January 1, 1991.
There are other exemptions as well.
Anyone who is thinking about altering a wetland in any way,
should first check with the Washington Soil anal Water
Conservation District {SWCD) to find. out if the new regulations
apply. The Wetland Conservation Act of 1991 designates the SWCD
as the "information clearinghouse" for the new law.
If the wetland is regulated under the new legislation, landowners
must first try to avoid any activity in the wetland or reduce the
activity's impact. As a last resort, they must replace the
wetland by creating a new wetland in the. same watershed..
It is important to remember that this new law is only one layer
of wetland :regulation, it does not supersede existing
regulations. Before altering wetlands, landowners should-still
contact the Army Corp of Engineers and the DNR. _
For more information or any questions, please contact the
Washington SWCD office at 439-6361.
March 18, 1992
To: Mr. Wally Abrahamson, Mayor
City of Stillwater
Subject: Intersection of Everett St. and Orleans.
Personal property, 1316 So. Everett Street.
G
You have your "hands full" with street problems this spring and I do not -envy
your situation.
However, I do want you to be aware of anew situation developing at the
intersection of Everett and Orleans.
A large culvert was .installed last summer to handle water run-off and it
appears to be doing the job. However, it is also allowing large quantities of
sand to wash into the culvert which is now pushing out into the Brick Pond,
on our property, creating a very undesirable situation.
ur crews have been filling pot holes in an attempt to eliviate the problem.
owever, these holes get pounded from school traffic and trucks servicing the
hospital resulting in larger holes forming and loose blacktop washing down into
the drain into the pond. Filling isn't the solution.
Three recommendations that should be implemented:
1. Remove sand from the intersection A.S.A.P..
2. Repave intersection. The pavement is totally broken up and patching is
creating a bigger problem without solving the real problem.
3. Remove sand from my property when the pond water level permits.
If I need to personally attend a meeting to accomplish these tactics,
please let me know. Otherwise I will expect implementation.
Thank you f or
Sinc ely,
Copy: Mr. Choc
Director,
•
Junker
Public Works
Board of Directors
Beth Waterhouse, Chair .
Consultant
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Dana Jackson; Vice-Chair
The Land Institute
Salina, Kansas
Leo Rowekamp, Sec./Treas.
Fatmer
Lewiston, Minnesota
Bob Duban
Fainter
Dundas, Minnesota
Joseph Fitzgerald
National Catholic
Rural Life Conference
Des Moines, Iowa
Robert J. Gray
Resource Management
Consultanu, Inc:
Washingtott, D.C.
Rev. O.M. Gunderson
ELCA Pastor, retired
Granite Falls, Minnesota
Larry Olson
Farmer
Granite Falls, Minnesota
Victor Ray
National Farmers
Union, retired
Little Rock, Arkansas
Ann Robinson
Igaak Walton League
Decorah, Iowa
Ron Kroese
Executive Director
George Boody
Interim Executive Director
Field Offices
Cannon River Watershed
127-B Northwest 4th Street
Faribault, MN 55021
507-334-0014
Southeastern Minnesota
180 East Main Street
PO Box 130
Lewiston, MN 55952
507-523-3366
Western Minnesota
-103 West Nichols
Montevideo, MN 56265
612-269-2105
® printed on recycled paper
Land
Stewardship
Project
March 17, 1992
Mayor Wally Abrahamson
1301 Cottage Drive
Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
Dear lyiayor Abrahamson: ,
612-433-2770 FAx 612-433-2704
I am writing to express my concern over the proposed annexation of property
from Stillwater Township to the City of Stillwater -- annexation Case No,
Ann/92-1 and Case No. CPA/92-1. I am writing not only as a concerned
resident of Stillwater, but also as ~ representative of an environmental
organization based in Washington County, the Land Stewardship Project, and as
a founder and board member of the newly formed Washington County Land
Trust.
For the past 10 years the Land Stewardship Project (LSP) has been a leader in
the field of sustainable agriculture throughout the Midwest. LSP has been
successful in promoting and developing policies and practices that sustain the
soil and prevent groundwater contamination. .
Within the last two years, LSP has focused much of its attention on the amount
of farmland being lost to development in the seven county area. Through its
Metro Farm Project, LSP was successful in forming the Washington County
Land Trust to protect open space and farmland in the County. The Land Trust
is directed by a diverse board of Washington County residents and landowners.
The Land Stewardship Project is not anti-growth or development. Rather, we
believe that planned,- appropriate development contributes to economic growth
as well as enhancing the quality of .life..
Included with this letter is the Executive Summary of a recent. conservation
survey conducted by Decision Resources of Minneapolis: The survey gauged the
attitudes and opinions of Washington County residents and landowners
14758 Ostlund Trail North, Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota 55047
concerning land use. The Summary clearly shows that the primary reason
people enjoy living in Washington County is the open spaces and rural
atmosphere. The survey goes on to show that what residents dislike most about
living here is the population- growth and encroaching metro area. This is a clear
indication that Washington County residents and landowners feel it is important
to preserve the rural ambiance we all value.
The landowners affected by the possible annexation to the City of Stillwater
stand together in their desire to remain in Stillwater Township. At the Planning
Commission meeting earlier this month, those landowners testified and publicly
made known''their strong feelings against the annexation. They have gathered
the signatures of hundreds of residents who feel as they do.
The people have spoken. I sincerely hope the Stillwater City Council is
listening. I Have asked to be placed on the agenda for the April Sth Council
meeting. The Land Stewardship Project and our constituency stand behind
Richard Schubert and Barbara Medinger and their wish to keep their small farm
from being annexed to Stillwater.
This decade is the .last chance for much of Washington County's farmland. If
Washington County and the Stillwater area in particular are to sustain a high
quality of life, then open space and farmland must be protected for the benefits
they give. Ft}ture residents will thank us if, today, we have the foresight to
protect this precious resource.
Thank you.
Sincerely, '
Lee Ronning Director
Metro Farm Project
cc: Rob Hamlin
Gerald Fontaine
Steve Russell
Liz Kelly, Newsletter Editor
St. Croix Valley Sierra Club
520 Nason Hill Road
Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047
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STILLWATER, MN
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NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the members whQ j oined our groapf'rom July -November 1991
MinneSOta Mr. Notion Borsch Wisconsin Nancy C. Pazlin
• Afton Mr. Ray Jackson Amery Prescott
Lorraine Schmidt Marine Sue & terry Sondreal Iris Most
Hannah Dunevitz
Mr. Tbom Schnide Ms. Kathym Stonehouse Beldenvllle River Falls
Bayport Stillwater Michael Weidner Bud & Audrey Halverson
Julie Hanson Gregory N. Kroening Ellsworth Roxanne Brown
Cottage Grove Pat AbramsonlMark Hodges Mary to Hollister ]udyEmmen
Paul Pekarek JohnBuege HudBOn Croix Fall8
5t
Barb Schwartz Ms. Julie Penshom lames R. Dewitte ,
.
Mr. Joseph C. Weinbug
Hastings Mr. Thomas R. Ewing Cortland Griswold Somerset
Lisa Fasbender D. Hansen Kathleen Ferguson Margaret S. Hunt
Mr. John H. Weinberg Ronald L. Jorgensen JellEricson Frederic
Lakeland Art Rutscher Nancy K. Strand MazileeThorstad
Alison A. Walsh Wyoming New Richmond Milltown
Lindstrom till M. Kwiatkowski Marisa Cook Ms. Ann D. Godwin
Sierra Ciub Newsletter • Winter 1991 •~1
(,ti 6 CFry~
e z ~ 00
W•a z terra u ~~~
.s
St. Croix Valley Interstate Group
Winter1991
Mussel Relocation found at the Stillwater location. The central
Endangers Species .corridor location for the bridge being proposed
by Cindy Gustavson in Stillwater could have the endangered mussels
Three years ago, when the new Prescott
Bndgeoverthe Lower St. Croix River wasbuilt,
the Wisconsin Department of Transportation
(DOT) paid to have eight thousand mussels
relocated, including many Higgins Eye pearly
mussels which aze included on the federal en-
dangered species list. After three years, the
DOT intended to move them back to their origi-
nalhome but the divers and scientists involved
in the project found that sixty to ninety percent
of the mussels had not survived the original
relocation. Although the study was done in
September of 1991, it appeazed that most of the
mussels had died shortly after the relocation in
Novemberof 1988. Atthetimeoftherelocation,
allielevantscientific infolmationabouttheneeds
of these mussels was taken into consideration.
However, there has never been a controlled
scientific study determining exactly what these
endangered mussels need to survive transplanta-
tion. The United States Fish and Wildlife Serv-
ice in LaCrosse, Wisconsin is just beginning
such a study. It appears that there had been very
little follow-up done in mussel relocation proj-
ects in the past, and that it had been mostly
assumed that these projects had succeeded..
This has great impact on the proposed eighty-
six million dollaz bridge across the St. Croix
River at Stillwater. In the Minnesota DOT's
Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS),
the Higgins Eye pearly mussel is listed as an
inhabitant of the area. Ina 1987 study for MN
DOT, several freshly-dead Higgins Eyes were
scatttered across the river, whereas in the south-
ern corridor the mussels only live within three
hundred feet of the two shorelines, The DEIS
states that if the southern corridor is chosen, the
bridge piers could avoid the mussels by being
placed between three hundred and five hundred
feet outfrom shore. However, the presentbridge
plans call for twenty-one piers, of pre-stressed
concrete across the river, each one not more than
two hundred and ten feet apart. That does not
take into consideration the mussel beds.
The new findings, that show the failure of the
mussel relocation, put the Stillwater mussels at
great risk for either of the chosen corridors. If
the mussels are moved, they will probably not
survive. If the mussels remain during the ap-
proximated threeyeazconsttuction of thebridge,
they will be at extreme risk from sedimentation
and other construction hazards, During bridge
use they will be at risk from the bridge salt and
sand. Mussels downstream from the bridge site
wilt also be at risk from increased sedimenta-
tion, asituation that is often fatal to mussels,
especially already endangered ones.
The St. Croix Valley Interstate Sierra Club
remains strongly opposed to the building of the
new bridge atStillwater, The Club endorses the
use of transportation management alternatives,
especially the limiting of truck traffic on the
existing bridge, carpooling and mass-transit,
one-way streets and better re-routing of traffic
to emphasise the I-94 bridge at Hudson,
Sierra Club Newsletter ~ Winter 1991 • Page 2
Conservation News
by Cindy Gustavson
Aleg la Dumpin¢
The St. Croix Valley Sierra Club (SCVSC)
responded to a call for help when a 5til[water
resident complained about contractors and resi-
dents dumping garbage in a beautiful wooded
ravine within Stillwater city limits. SCVSC
member Ctayton Patterson contacted city offi-
cials and publicized it in the local newspaper,
After months of complaining by local residents,
the situation was finally taken seriously when
_~he Sierra Club and Mr. Patterson stepped in.
The ravine is now scheduled to be cleaned
though due to the early snow, not until .the
spring, The city will prosecute violators in the
future.
John Muir Chapter Sues RivieraAir Park
The WI John Muir Chapter of the Sierra
Club voted December 7th to file suit against the
Riviera Air Park in Pierce Co. WI. The MN
North Star Sierra Club has already filed suit
charging that the Air Park's planes lIy too low
over the St. Croix, Afton State Park, and Carpen-
terNatureCenter. The WI suit involves chazges
that the Air Park is operating illegally. The Air
Pazk borders Kinnickinnic State Park and the St.
Croix River. Our club endorses the law suits,
Sierra Club Calendars For Sale
Sierra Club calendars are currently being
sold at the Brick Alley Bookstore in Stillwater
and the Whole Earth Store and Books & Com-
pany in River Falls, WL
Thank you Emerson Garver for arranging
these sales!
Committee Changes
Co-chair Needed
We aze currently looking for a co-chair for
Outings. Mark Schaeffer is willing to continue
as a co-chair leading the outings, but needs help
in the planning of the outings. Contact Mark if
you would like to help at (H) 715386-6875 or
(W) 612,736-9829.
Thankyou Julie Metcalf (Editor)
Thank you Julie for your past service as the
Sierra ClublJewsletteredhor! Julie continues
as the. Membership Chair. Liz Kelly is the new
editor,
Executive Committee Nominees
The following people have been nominated
for the St. Croix Valley Sierra Club Executive-
Committee:
^Joyce Hinz
Joyce iscurrentlyourClub'sTreasurer. Her
main interests include the Ice Age Trail Project
and issues involving the St. Croix River.
^Tod and Mary Stedtferd
TodandMaryazenewmembers. Theirmain
areas of concern include Animal Rights and
Deforestation.
Board members serve for two years
If you would like to vote for one or all of the
candidates, please send your ballot to:
Karen Britton
8236113th Street
Cottage Grove, MN 55106
t' t
NII Sierra Club Newsletter • Winter 1991 • Page 3
Mark Your Calendar!
JANUARY
4 Saturday 1:00 pm Holiday Party -William O'Brien State Park (Marine, MN)
Cross Country Skiing and Pot Luck. Meet at the Nature Center
Building and don't forget to bring skis, a pot luck dish and your own
fork & plate!
13 Monday 6:30 pm Executive Committee Meeting
Margaret Rivers Room, Stillwater Library, 223 N. 4th Street (all
members andthose interestedin becoming new members welcome)
18 Saturday 11:00 am Minnesota Raptor Center Tour 1920 Fitch Avenue, St. Paul
Campus, U of M $1.00 children, $2.00 adult donation. Meet in
-- - - front lobby of the Raptor Center. For more information-Fail-Mark
Schaeffer 715.386-6875
FEBRUARY
10 Monday 7:00 pm St. Croix Water Shed Research Station Presentation:
Ron Lawrence, (director) from the Science Museum of MN in
Marine; MN will present the latest results from research conducted
on the St. Croix River,
Weneedahead-count. PleasecallCindyat612.430-1541 if coining
and for directions!
16 Sunday 12:30 pm Snow Shoeing at Warner Nature Center: (County 55 to Scandia)
The Center's naturalist will lead our walk.
Call Joan Benner at 612.430-3531 early to reserve 1 of 12 pairs of
snow shoes available at the Center.
MARCH
9 Monday 6:30 pm Executive Committee Meeting
Mazgazet Rivers Room, Stillwater Library, 223 N 4th Street (all
members and those interested in becoming new members welcome)
,~
OUR NEWSLETTER
The newsletter of the St. Croix Valley
Sierra Club is published four times each
year. If you have suggestions or contribu-
tions,please write or call Cindy Gustavson
(612.430-1541) or Julie Metcalf (612.436-
1558).
.Contributions or gifts to the Sierra Club
are not tax deductible. Donations to help
defray -the cost of the newsletter and our
Group's activities can be made out to "St.
Croix Valley Sierra Club" and sent to our
editor.
•
~ ST. CRIOX ARTS TASK FORCE
PUBLIC REPORT AND OPEN MEETING
March 17, 1992
:Dear Friend,
You are cordially invited by the members of the. St. Croix Arts Task: Force to share
dessert and a discussion with us about the Fine Arts in the St. Croix area.
Please. join other people interested in the Fine Arts at a public meeting:
"NOT- JUST DESSERT"
THE FUTURE OF THE ARTS IN THE ST. CR41X VALLEY
TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 7:00 - 9:00 pm.
THE HISTORIC COURTHOUSE
101 WEST PINE STREET, STILLWATER
The Arts Task Force is eager to explain -and get response :from the community: to our
recommendations regarding advancing the arts in the. area.. Based upon asx-month
.:assessment: funded by the St. Paul Foundation, we are recommending some specific,
exciting ventures. We used surveys and interviews with artists, community leaders,
patrons of the arts and heads of local arts organizations to direct us.
In our opinion, there is a need in the community to coordinate, promote and market
arts activities and events which might. be best. met by a community arts council. Arts
education, governmental relations. and the possibility of creating an arts. center in the
area are among other concerns to be .discussed.
To reserve a .dessert and printed materials related to the meeting, please .call:
X8262 and leave your name with Sharon Stoffel. We hope to see`you at the
meeting.
.David Wettergren,
ever of the ask Force..
James Hainlen,
Project Coordi/nator
~a.:. 4/
G~
sas
DATE: March 2, 1992
TO: Washington County City and Township Clerks
FROM: J. Scott Renne, MAI
County Assessor
SUBJECT: 1992 Local Board of Review Information Booklets
Enclosed are our 1992 Local Board of Review Information Booklets.
Please distribute them to your City Council or Township Board
Members and any other individuals that may have. an interest. If
you would like additional copies, please call me.
We encourage them to read all of the information, but at a
minimum the items noted in the letter of transmittal.
Upon request, our office will have an information meeting prior
to the Board of Review for the Council or at any other time in a
• workshop format. The changes made to the assessment and
discussion of anticipated appeals could be covered at this
meeting.
Alternatively our office could provide, upon request, a memo
describing in reasonably specific terms, changes that were made
in the 1992 assessment from the 1991 assessment. Please call me
at 430-6091 with any questions that you may have. We look
forward to working with you at the 1992 Board of Review.
u