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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1989 Stillwater City Newslettert1*11water Scene VOL. 1; No. 3 Stillwater, MN. 55082 November 1989 Still more 'truth' about taxation In accordance with the Truth in Taxation law adopted by the Minnesota State Legislature, the City of Stillwater is required to conduct a public hearing on its proposed budget and tax levy. The hearing will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5, at Stillwater City Hall. The Council will vote to approve or disapprove the 1990 budget anddevy after affording citizens an opportunity to comment on the proposals. (It is interesting to note that the Legislature requires local units of government to hold public hearings regarding their proposed tax levies and budget, yet the 1989 tax bill passed by the Legislature in the special session was hammered out behind closed doors.) The City is proposing to increase its property tax levy by 16.5 percent over the 1989 levy. However, this increase is not due to a decision by the City Council to increase spending nor will it necessarily mean higher property taxes. In fact, the proposed 1990 tax levy reflects a spending increase of only 3.7 percent. The additional 12.8 percent is due to a shift in aid from cities to school districts by the State of Minnesota. What this means is that the City is losing $361,581 in state aid that has been used in the past to help fund the general operation of the City, and the City now has to make up this difference through the tax levy. In other words, without the shift in state aids, the City's tax levy would increase by only 3.7 percent. Supposedly, the shift in aids to school districts will result in reduced tax levies for schools and reduced or stabilized property taxes overall. However, due to the recentness of the tax bill that was enacted during the 1989 legislative special session, certain data that is used to analyze tax levies by various taxing jurisdictions (i.e., county, school, cities) and their impact on property taxes are not yet available. Further, the Legislaure made some changes in how tax rates for certain property classifications (homestead, non- homesteaded, commercial/industrial, etc.) are calculated, and this will have some impact on your property taxes as well. More importantly, if school districts are not required to reduce their levies according to the amount of the state aid shift, a reduction of property taxes would not take place. Finally, in accordance with the "truth in taxation" laws, the City.must publish a notice regarding increases in property taxes for 1990. Unfortunately, the notice, the (See Taxation p. 4) Garbage, sewer fees to be increased The City recently received some rather disturbing information regarding charges for solid waste disposal and waste water treatment. The charges (tipping fees) for dumping solid waste at the Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) plant in Newport will increase from $47.89 to $59.25 per ton. Further, the 1989 Legislature passed a law requiring citizens to pay a 6 percent sales tax on their garbage bills. Unfortunately, the City does not have any choice but to pass these costs on to the residents. Residents of Stillwater will probably see their garbage bills rise by at least $1.50 per month ($18 per year). (NOTE: All waste generated in Washington County must be hauled to the RDF plant which is owned and operated by NSP.) The City Council is very concerned about the manner in which tipping fees have increased in the past 2 1/2 years. The fees will have increased from $27.67 per Official City Newsletter ton in July 1987 to $59.25 by January 1990. This is a 50 percent increase. The Council is not only concerned about tht amount of the increase, they are also concerned (and frustrated) because cities in Washington County must deliver all solid waste to the RDF facility and pay the fees that are charged by NSP to operate the facility. Yet, the cities have very little input or control regarding how the fees are set. On the other hand, the diminished landfill capacity has made it necessary to build alternative facilities such as the RDF plant to handle our waste. The Council met with county officials to discuss their concerns and will continue to meet with appropriate officials to make sure that the fees are fair and cost justified rather than profit motivated. In the meantime, residents should prepare for an increase in garbage rates by January 1990. In regard to the waste water treatment charges, it appears that sewer rates will increase by at least 10 to 15 percent by January 1990. The Metropolitan Waste Control- Gommission (MWCC),,.,rwfi.ich operates the Stillwater treatment plant, has "� informed the City that the charges for 1990 will be 97.1 cents per 1,000 gallons. This is an increase of 15 percent over 1989 and brings the total increase in charges since 1986 (a five year period) to 48 percent. Again, the Council is frustrated because the waste water treatment charges are set by the MWCC without any opportunity for the cities to review and understand the necessity for increases. Further, the Stillwater treatment plant is not treated as a "stand alone" entity. Prior to 1971, the City of Stillwater owned and operated the treatment plant and determined what the charges would be. In 1971, MWCC was given control of all treatment plants in the seven- county metro area. (See Fees p. 4) Page 2 Newsletter Stillwater, MN. November 188Q Winter parking Unfortunately, it's not too early to be thinking about the first snowfall and winter parking regulations. Every winter season the City receives complaints from citizens who have had their vehicle tagged or towed because the vehicle was parked on the "wrong" side of the street. In almost every case, the person believed that the odd/even parking regulations would be enforced only when snow was falling. Wrong! City parking regulations are enforced at all times. So, please read the following winter parking regulations. Beginning at 12:01 December 1 until midnight April 1, the City's odd -even parking regulation is in force - at all times. The odd -even parking regulation simply means that on odd numbered calendar days of the month, cars should be parked on the side of the street (improved or unimproved) with odd numbered street adresses. On even numbered days of the month, cars should be parked on the side of the street with even numbered street addresses. Each day between 7 p.m. and midnight is a,change -over period when the regulations are not in force in order to allow residents to move their cars to the side of the street where parking is permitted the following day. Plan on planning permit If you are thinking about an addition to your home, a new garage, or possibly a fence to keep the dog in the yard, you may need a planning pen from the City. The City Zoning Ordinance specifies development requirements that all new projects must meet. The best time to contact the City Planning Department is when you first begin to think about your plans so that the requirements can be considered in the design. A simple site plan of your lot showing existing and proposed structures is useful in explaining and discussing the project with the City Planner. If you are beginning to think about an addition or improvement for next spring, and have questions about City development requirements, call the City Planning Department at 439 -6121 and talk with Ann or Steve. Also, remember that it takes time to process permits. Because of this, you may not always be able to secure a permit on the same day it is applied for. In many cases, where variances are required or under special circumstances, it could take 2 -4 weeks to obtain a permit. The police need your help The Police Department needs your help. There are over 13,000 people who live in Stillwater. There are 16 police officers to provide police service. That works out to one police officer for every 828 residents. National standards suggest that there should be at least 1.5 officers for every 1,000 residents; following those standards, Stillwater should have 20 officers. As you can see, we are "outnumbered." Most crime is not solved by the type of police work portrayed on television. It is solved by citizens providing valuable information about things they have seen. An active group of citizens can do more about lowering the crime rate than any other method of crime prevention. Here are some tips to remember, and more importantly, to act on: 1) If you see something that is out of the ordinary in your neighborhood, call the police and have them check it out. It most likely will be nothing, but it could be a person waiting to pull a burglary or steal something out of your yard or a neighbor's yard. 2) Call while the event is going on, not after it is over. Police can often catch a crook in the act this way. If you wait until the event is over to call, the chance of catching the person is greatly reduced. 3) Don't be embarrassed or think that the officer will be angry with you if you call. If something doesn't look right, call right away. Officers would much rather check out a suspicious event than take a theft report. 4) Try to get a license plate number. This is the most important piece of information for an officer to have. Good descriptions of vechicles and occupants also help. Citizens who see strange things, get good descriptions, and call the police do help. Just in the last month, citizens have helped the police catch a person stealing money out of parking meters and helped to expose a major ring of thieves who were taking personal property from cars. Do your part - observe and call. Address could save a life Fire Chief Gordie Seim reminds all building owners in the City to make sure they have their street numbers properly displayed. Some houses do not have numbers or have numbers that are obstructed or do not contrast with the background. Also, some residents have numbers displayed on garage doors, which is not a good idea since when the door is open, the number is gone. Houses and buildings which do not have street addresses properly displayed are in violation of the Uniform Fire Code which states: Approved numbers or adress shall be placed on all new and existing building in such a position as to be plainly visible and legible from the street or road fronting the property. Said numbers shall contrast with their background. The Stillwater Fire Department works to provide residents with the most prompt and efficient service possible. If citizens assist the department by providing clear, well placed street address numbers on their homes and business, it could improve response time - it could even save a life. November 1989 Newsletter Stillwat MN. Pie 3 Meet your city workers Mayor Wally Abrahamson and members of the Stillwater City Council believe the City is fortunate to have knowledgable and dedicated employees. Here are four of the employees who help make Stillwater a great place to live. Lynne Bertalmio, director of the Stillwater Public Library, received her bachelor of arts degree from Carlton College and her MA in library science from the University of MInnesota. She came to Stillwater as library director in 1974. Her duties include administrative functions - budget preparation, personnel supervision, planning - as well as adult programming, selection of adult materials and audio /visual materials, providing support for, the 9- member library board of trustees and generally "making the world safe for librarianship." She also serves as chair of the public relations committee of the state library association. One of the changes Lynne has noticed with the growth of the city has been an increasing professionalism in the way it approaches problems. She mentioned the Downtown Plan as an example of being proactive rather than reactive, attacking a problem before it becomes a crisis. As far as the library is concerned, the biggest change has been "getting the infrastructure in order." Library use has gone up tremendously since the building has been redone, she says. Now people feel they can "use" the library, rather than "just check out a book and take it home." Now that the infrastructure is in place, she is looking forward to developing more adult programming and doing more outreach to develop a sense of community, gettting people to share ideas with each other and "talk to their neighbors." Lynne has lots of hobbies, but doesn't have much spare time right now. She's building a house. "I can remember reading" before the house - building project, she says. She is taking a writing class and enjoys all the arts, particularly the theater; she is president of the St. Croix Valley Friends of the Arts. She also likes to dance and plays racquetball, from time to time. Sue Stickan started with the city of Stillwater a bit over 11 years ago, on Oct. 10, 1978, as a clerk /typist, receptionist. She has since advanced to If you've ever phoned more than likely heard Sue, in her distinctive voice, "City of Stillwater, may we help you ?" In fact, her favorite part of the job is meeting and talking with people. "I love answering the phone; I love people," she says. She doesn't even mind hearing complaints - as long as there are a few compliments along the way. "You have to take the bad with the good." And, she has answered more than a few unusual questions, especially with the advent of the new recycling program. Sue moved to Stillwater from Grand Meadow, Minn., south of Rochester. She has four children - two married sons and two daughters- and "two and 1/2 grandchildren. "It's great being a grandmother," she sayd. All of her children live within five miles of home. Her 21- year -old daughter got a 21- point buck last hunting season, "I taught her everything she knows." Her hobbies include dancing, golfing and walking. She used to enjoy sewing - before all this (working full time). Fire Chief Gordie Seim was born and raised in Stillwater, and served a stint with the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany. He joined the fire department on Aug. 6, 1965. He became captain about eight years later, then assistant chief, was fire inspector for a time, then assistant chief again before becoming chief in the spring of 1988. Seim said changes in the area of firefighting in the last five years "have been unbelievable." Specifically, he mentioned changes in the areas of inspections and data retention. "Firefighting is about 1 percent of the job now," he said, "the rest is maintenance, testing, inspections and record keeping." And, he said if it were not for key people in his department that share the responsibilities, "we'd be floundering now." There are several things he likes about his job. He said the city council and administrator have been "awfully good" to work with and have been extrememly fair and open- minded in matters concerning his department. And, he says the people in his department are "the best group of people," cooperative and with a good attitude. The part -time (30 volunteers) and full -time (7 regulars) have put in "thousands of man- hours of donated time," he said. "Without them, I wouldn't be able to do it." One of the efforts Seim is working hard at now is getting the city's Insurance Underwriters' ISO rating dropped down from a class 5 to a class 3, with would benefit all the commercial businesses in Stillwater, he said. "Were'really trying hard." Gordie has one and only one hobby - fish'n. His new position has meant he has not been able to spend much time at his fishing get -away in upper Michigan. "It breaks my heart," he says. Seim's wife, Margie, is secretary/dispatcher in the Stillwater Police Department. Monroe "Woody" Wood is the City's chief mechanic. He grew up in Rochester and graduated from public schools there and 01 spent four years in the Air Force in a guided missile "outfit" in Germany. After the service, he and his wife, who is a White Bear Lake native, returned to the Twin Cities while he attended and graduated from Dunwoody Institute. He had several jobs before coming to work for the City 21 years ago. What brought him here, "I fell in love with Stillwater; I love the river." Woody says his job description "goes on and on." But, basically it's - "anything that's broke, we fix." He enjoys working for the City, "The benefits are good, and it's a pretty nice bunch of people." He and his wife, Margaret, have four grown children - two sons and two daughters, all of whom live in the Twin Cities area - and four grandchildren. Woody's hobby is fishing, "I fish constantly." Guess who he's a protoge of - none other than Gordie Seim, " Gordie taught me everything I know." Fire Dept. will offer CPR Beginning Jan. 1, 1990, the Stillwater Fire Department will be offering free cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes to public or private groups or interested individuals. Classes will be taught in accordance with the standards of the American Heart Association and will certify participants in basic CPR procedures. Also beginning in January 1990, free blood pressure checks will be available at the Stillwater Fire Station. The blood pressure checks and CPR program are sponsored by Stillwater Elk's Lodge 179. The Fire Department is very pleased to be able to offer these important lifesaving programs to the public and wishes to thank Stillwater Elk's Lodge 179 and the City Council for their support and dedication to the project. City Hall, you Page 4 Newsletter Stillwater, MN. November 19W Fees More taxation 'truth' (Continued from p. 1) Therefore, the Stillwater treatment plant is just one of several plants controlled by the MWCC; the costs of operating all of the plants are "pooled" and then distributed to the cities on a cost - per - gallon basis. In other words, the cost of the Metro "system," rather than the cost of the Stillwater treatment plant itself, is passed on to the residents. This does not mean that the charges are necessarily unfair. On the other hand, it begs the question: "What would our charges be if the City still operated the treatment plant ?" Can it be changed from a metro system to a local system? Probably not. However, the City Council will continue to voice their objections to any unreasonable charges. In the meantime, residents should also prepare for an increase in sewer charges by January 1990. (Continued from p. 1) I orm and content which is prescribed by the Minnesota Department of Revenue must be published in a Metropolitan area newspaper (i.e. the St. Paul Pioneer Press Dispatch) at a cost of several hundred dollars. This is an additional expenditure for the City and the City doesn't even have a choice regarding the selection of an appropriate newspaper. (Note: the Stillwater Gazette is the "official" newspaper for the City of Stillwater and is used for all other legal publications and advertisements.) If you want to know the "truth" about City taxation, attend the hearing, or you may consider viewing the meeting on Government Channel 12 if cable is available to your residence. The impact of the shift in state aids will be discussed in future newsletters as the needed information becomes available. Rec Board has vacancy A vacancy exists on the Stillwater Park and Recreation Board. The Board meets about six to eight times a year to operate a program of public recreation and playgrounds and to manage and care for the public parks of the City. Any Stillwater resident interested in serving on the Board should write to the Mayor and City Council (216 N. Fourth St.) expressing their interest. Letters of interest should be received by the City no later than Dec. 1, 1989. Recycling calendar Recycling off to a good start Stillwater's voluntary recycling program is off to a good start. The program began the week of Sept. 11; curbside pickup is on an every -other -week basis. Materials being recycled include newspaper, corrugated cardboard, glass bottles and jars, and aluminum and bi -metal cans. Jim Junker of Junker Recycling, the City's contractor, reports: recycling pickup at 101 houses on Monday's route the first week, 190 pickups the second week; 115 pickups on Tuesday's route the first week, 175 the second week; 214 stops of Wednesday's route the first week, 301 the second week; 118 pickups on Thursday's route the first week, up to 164 the second week; and 72 pickups on Friday's route, up to 85 the second week. The biggest problem encountered during the first two recycling pickups has been the use of plastic garbage bags as containers for the recyclables. The materials should be placed in paper sacks or corrugated cardboard boxes. Special containers (one for newspaper, one for glass and one for cans) will probably be required sometime next year. Residents are also reminded that glossy paper, magazines and telephone books are not acceptable. Also, newspapers should be secured in some manner so they won't blow all over the neighborhood. Corrugated cardboard (pop cartons are not corrugated cardboard) should be bundled. Glass should not be broken; glass bottles should be rinsed and have the labels removed. (Mirrors, window or plate glass, ceramic, light bulbs or other glass is not acceptable.) Cans should be flattened (not mandatory, but saves space) and rinsed; the ends should be removed from bi -metal cans. Applicances and scrap iron are not part of the recycling program, but will continue to be picked up as part of the regular garbage pickup. The same is true of aerosol cans. Residents are asked to have the recyclables at curbside by 7 a.m. If the materials aren't out by this time, trucks have to go back through that day's route. That isn't a big problem now, but will be as participation in the recylcing program continues to grow. People who are physically impaired due to age or disability and are unable to carry material to the curb should call Junker Recycling, 439 -7135. The goal of the City's recycling program is to recycle 5 percent of the waste stream (about 322 tons) in 1989, 10 percent (645 tons) by next year. So spread the word - reduce, reuse and recycle. NOTE: Recycling pickup is during the shaded calendar weeks. ' Stillwater Curbside Recycling A V E AR T IL Why should you recycle? 1. To save energy, natural resources, and raw materials. 2. To case the landfill shortage problem. 3. To help slow the garbage rate increase. Steel & Aluminum Beverage Cans Rinse clean and flatten. (Saves on room) Tin Cans Rinse clean, take off labels, cut off ends, and flatten. Glass All colors of glass can be recycled. Rinse clean and do not break. Take off caps and metal rings (Plastic rings do not need to, be removed.) Labels may stay on. Do not recycle window glass, ceramics, china, lightbulbs or mirrors. Newspaper Bundle or place in paper sack. Coupons and glossy paper cannot be recycled. Corrugated Cardboard Flatten and bundle the cardboard. When: Every other week starting September 11, 1989 Containers: Place paper bags or boxes of recyclables by curb, clearly separate from garbage. Do not use special containers that you want to keep. They will not be emptied and returned. Call 439 -6121 (Recycling Coordinator) if you have any questions Please save for Please save for future reference. printed on recycled paper future reference. City Hall: 216 North Fourth Street Stillwater, MN 55062 STILLWATER RESIDENT IMPORTANT NEWSLETTER! !! U.S. Postage Paid Bulk Rate Permit No. 206 Stillwater, MN 55082 The reverse side of this flyer provides some basic information pertaining to the City's newly adopted recycling program which will begin September, 1989. The purpose of this section is to provide additional information and to try to clarify certain aspects of the program. First of all, the City has entered into a contract with Junker Recycling, Inc. to provide twice a month pick -up of recyclable material. The actual pick -up will begin during the week of September 11th and continue every other week thereafter. Your recyclable material will be collected on the same day of your regular collection. The material may not be picked up at the same exact time, but will be picked up some time during the day. Please keep your recyclable material clearly separate from the regular waste. At this time, the recycling contractor cannot empty and return any containers. Therefore, please remember to use bags, boxes or containers that are of no value and need not be returned. Finally, the City has to meet certain mandated recycling goals. These goals cannot be met without your cooperation - '"'" SO PLEASE PARTICIPATE IN THE RECYCLING PROGRAM. THANK YOU! Recycling in the Home Roger's Corner b y Edna Siniff and Carl Erickson Reduce + Reuse + Recycle IY �, - ra. ��... away iwe�e - — '> •? �IAAI� l , 5��� �! �lll(�I �! t1*11water Scene Official City Newsletter Vol. 1; No. 2 Stillwater, MN. 55082 July, 1989 Some 'truth' about Truth in Taxation In 1988, the Minnesota State Legislature enacted legislation that requires cities to determine their tax levies by Aug. 1 of each year and to conduct public hearings on the proposed tax levy. Previously, cities had until Oct. 10 to adopt levies, and, except for Federal Revenue Sharing funds, budget hearings were previously not required. The 1988 legislation is called "Truth in Taxation" and was apparently enacted because the Legislature: 1. Believed local units of government (i.e., cities, counties and school districts) should be held more "accountable" for local spending and property tax levels; and 2. The requirements of truth in taxation would help local taxpayers better understand how local governments (and not the Legislature) set property tax levels. The City of Stillwater is not opposed to the concept of "truth in taxation." In fact, the City's budget process is an "open" process and certainly is more conducive to "accountability" than is the legislative process. In addition, the City, has conductued budget hearings in the past and would continue to do so in the future in order to inform the public on how their money is being spent and to allow for review and comment by the public. What the City does oppose is the timetable and the process that the Legislature provided for in the new law. The August levy certification date is far too early for cities to be able to make realistic budget projections for the coming year, and the process which requires that notices be sent to each taxpayer and that newspaper ads be used will be very costly. Also, the method of calculating the proposed property tax increases, which will appear on taxpayer statements, will be misleading and inaccurate. Finally, the law only requires information that will show taxpayers how they will be affected by the proposed tax levy and nothing about why the tax levy has been set at a given level. For example, the City must comply with an ever increasing number of state or federally mandated laws. These laws, such as the Pay Equity Act, Surface Water Management Act, Uniform Financial Reporting Act, Fair Labor Standards Act, Right to Know Act, etc., require the City to expend substantial funds in order to comply with the laws. Although cities are often allowed to make "special levies" in order to finance the mandated programs, the "truth" is that the cost of services increase but the level of service does not. On the other hand, the City does recognize the value of having an informed citizenry. To that end, the City will be using its Newsletter to provide you with as much information as possible to help you better understand your local government and the services it provides. This edition of the Stillwater Scene contains other articles which are intended to show how the City obtains and spends its financial resources and also to point out some of the financial problems Minnesota cities are faced with today. STILLWATER REVENUES'88 ' uauu' 11!111, tttlll ' 1 11111 11[Illt Iltll lallll' ' Itl t IIIIIN' Taxes 5 2,038,489 45.14% no t 1 uN '�bn u[tlll` License & Permits 149,652 3.31% In11r t E nl' b n ,r1 annul t Fines &Forfeits 115,187 2.55% rr1, mtnn um tuna oral nn nN Charges for Services 257,290 5.70% 11 t111� � all! IIN R 111 1[ta1N _ 718111 t [Itllt Intergovernmental 1,655,151 36.65% 'F , . mmtN 1 j nu mm 'nm n[In "'um unmN lan Honor I Ill a[IIpN 1 111 n I I Interest 215,083 4.76% ;n u t u1 aalt t qln a1nnN b,,, an NI Miscellaneous 85,377 1. bliq ,;,. latlNl 1111 "''EE [ 111 1 11 !111 1111!! I UU i�.. [tE11 1 1111 tlaagl 11 Iq at11E 11 111- tl[IIIIN' n[ aN 1 q,, numl uml Haan 1 , nl tt, aN TOTAL & 4,516,229 100,000% Miscellaneous License& Fine& Intergovernmental Charges I Taxes Permits Forfeits for Services STILLWATER EXPENDITURES' '11 ; ilia General Government 5 600,248 13.98% unI nI n' Public Safety 1,583,137 36.88% Public Works 786,159 18.31% Unallocated 52,896 1.23% wni m n II nl a ml uni I'n nII I n 11i I non 1 1 Library 463,916 10.81% Haul 1 nm, I Ion I nl l . unI owl n ' un I I Parks 289,530 6.75% wan ui n,n nI" I n uul nI uu unml nI I Debt Service non' Inn. mmm Hau wul I n 506,564 11.80% ,�� um anon' Inn I n m� nun I n,nn nullllli; I non Solid Waste 10,500 .24% unRriITM Iu,,,, um "" nu un,nl' un In u 'Im nn" I uul D ui Imm wn IIIn 111111 moo TOTAL 5 4,292,950 100% Solid Unallocated Debt Parks Public General Library Public Waste Service Works Government Safety Stillwater, MN. Newsletter July 1989 Holiday garbage pickup schedule LABOR DAY Monday, Sept. 4 - NO PICKUP SERVICE Tuesday, Sept. 5 - All of Monday's route and Tuesday's route east of Greeley Street. Wednesday, Sept. 6 - Tuesdays route west of Greeley Street and all of Wednesday's route. Thursday and Friday, Sept. 7 and 8 - Regular routes THANKSGIVING Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 20 -22 - Regular routes. Thursday, Nov. 23 - NO PICKUP SERVICE Friday, Nov. 24 - All of Thursday and Friday's routes. CHRISTMAS Monday, Dec. 25 - NO PICKUP SERVICE Tuesday, Dec. 26 - All of Monday's route and Tuesday's route east of Greeley Street. Wednesday, Dec. 27 - Tuesday's route west of Greeley Street and all of Wednesday's route. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 28 and 29 - Regular routes. Meet your city workers Mayor Wally Abrahamson and members of the Stillwater City Council believe the city is fortunate to have knowledgable and dedicated employees. Here are four of the employees who help make Stillwater a great place to live. Shirley Montbriand has been an employee of the City since September 1971. She started as an assistant, the "go fur" girl, in the administration office. In 1973 she became secretary for the building department and was in charge of the Section 8 rental assistance program for nearly 10 years. Currently, she is secretary for the planning and building departments and, like Lavonne, does all the "little things in between." Shirley says she "loves her job or I would have retired," which she could have done several years ago. "I like the people I work with and my bosses; that's a pretty good combination." Shirley was born in Star Prairie, Wis., and graduated from New Richmond High School. She has lived in Stillwater for about 45 years. She has six sons and nine grandchildren. One of her hobbies is collecting antiques "when I can afford it." Dick Bleckum took charge of the g � City parks in September of 1963. At that time he was the Parks ' Depart ment. "It was just me, a couple of shovels and a rake." Since that time the City has doubled in population, and its parks have tripled in size and number. The Parks Department currently has five staff members, the manager of the ice arena and several part - timers during the summer months. Dick says his goal when he started the job was to provide the kind of facilities that people want. He says he enjoys his work and being outdoors. "It's the kind of work I wanted to do, and will do for myself when I retire." He says, "The City has been good to me." And, he says the retirement benefits are "looking good." (He can retire in a year.) Dick was born and raised in Stillwater. He graduated from St. John's University High School and attend three years of college there. His hobbies include archery, bow hunting and fishing. Sgt. Don Beberg became a full -time Stillwater Police Officer on Jan. 1, 1968; he had been a part -time reserve officer for about two e years prior to joing the force on a full -time basis. He was promoted to sergeant effective July 1, 1972. Sgt. Beberg noted there have been many changes since he joined the force. In 1968, the Police Department received about 4,000 calls a year; in 1988, the Department handled 9,900 calls. In 1968, the Department had three squad cars; currently, there are 9 cars in the fleet. When he started, there were 9 full -time personnel in the Department; now, there are 15 officers and three support staff. The manner of record keeping has changed too - from manual to almost totally computerized. And, he says police officers today receive more and better training. Sgt. Beberg says, like any officer, he enjoys "helping people." He also gets a lot of "satisfaction from the postitive contact between police and young people." He also likes the variety and challege of the job. Currently, 90 percent of his job is dealing witli administrative duties such as scheduling, payroll and purchasing. One of the things he misses is being out on the streeet, being downtown and talking with the merchants. Another part of the job he doesn't like is "seeing the hurt in people." Sgt. Beberg was born and raised in Bayport and graduated from Stillwater High School. He and his wife, Byrdye, have two daughters, Carla, age 18, who is a freshman at St. Cloud State University, and Darcy, age 9, a fourth - grader at Lily Lake Elementary School. LaVonne Simon started work with the City of Stillwater on Sept. 13, 1965, and ` has worked under five` mayors -Dean Charlsen, Bill r4 Powell, David 'Choc' Junker, Harry Peterson and now Wally Abrahamson. (She just found out that her typewriter has been with the City two years longer than she has.) Her job duties, she says, have increased with the growth of the City. One of the things she enjoys about her job is the variety of duties. Lavonne is in charge of payroll, accounts payable, bond payments and "lots of little things in between." LaVonne is a widow. She has four chilren - three daughters and one son - and eight grandchildren, "the center of my life." In addition to enjoying her family, her home and yard are important in her life. Stillwat MN. Newsletter July 1989 .More taxation truths The following information is reprinted from the State of the Cities report (1988) by the League of Minnesota Cities. The articles indicate some of the resasons why city tax levies have increased even though per capita city spending has not. Although the report was compiled in 1988, the data remains applicable in 1989. Federal and state revenue sharing for Minnesota cities is declining During the 1980s, the level of federal and state aid to our cities diminished relative to that in the '70s when the national and state economies were relatively healthy. A severe recession in 1981 -82, an escalating federal deficit, and a number of budget crises at the state level have all converged on Minnesota's state and local governments, decreasing the financial resources available for the delivery of services. As evident in Chart 1, the largest decline in aid occurred between 1978 and 1982 when both federal and state governments were withdrawing financial support. Since 1982, the rate of decline has slowed somewhat. However, with the 1987 (Continued on page 4) Planning study City to begin implementing is underway voluntary recycling program The City of Stillwater has begun preparation of a West Stillwater Business Park Area Plan. The planning area includes most of the land between Washington Avenue and County Road 5 north of Highway 36 (including the site of the former Woodland Lakes development). Stillwater Township land west of County Road 5 and east of Long Lake, along with the Benson farm, are also being studied. The study is focusing on existing and proposed land use, provision of streets and utilities, timing of annexation of Township land, environmental and other development constraints and design guidelines for new development. The first phase of the study, which is being done this summer, will involve gathering information on existing conditions in the study area. This will be accompanied by a survey of the existing businesses in the business park. The second phase of the study will involve evaluating suggested alternatives and preparing descriptions of the impacts of each alternative. Anyone who is interested in the study and who would like to receive notices of meetings regarding plan development, should contact the Stillwater Community Development Department, 439 -6121. The City Council recently adopted a recycling implementation program that was developed by the City's Solid Waste Advisory Committee. A few wrinkles still need to be worked out (such as the fee to be charged for recycling services). However, it is anticipated that the program will begin on September 1st of this year. Basically the program will be as follows: 1. Voluntary participation. 2. Curbside pickup will be made every other week on the same day as the regular pickup. 3. Material to be recycled: a) Paper 1) Newspapers and corrugated (cardboard) paper only. Magazines, glossy paper, catalogs, phone books or other paper will not be accepted. 2) Newspapers must be tied in bundles, boxed or placed in paper bags. Corrugated paper should be flattened and tied in bundles. 3) Newspaper and corrugated paper should be bundled separately and not mixed with other recyclable material. b) Glass - 1) Mirrors, window glass, plate glass, ceramic, light bulbs or other glass will not be acceptable. 2) Paper labels may be left on. However, metal rings, caps or lids must be removed and glass cannot be broken. 3) Glass should also be rinsed and not mixed with other recyclable materials. c) Metal cans 1) Food cans and beverage cans may be mixed together 2) Paper labels must be removed and cans should be rinsed. 3) Appliances and scrap iron will not be a part of the recycling programs but will continue to be picked up as part of regular pickup or accepted on cleanup days. 4) No aerosol cans of any kind will be accepted. The City will be sending out a special flyer that will be used exclusively for explaining the recycling program and what will be required of residents as soon as a specific start date is determined. In the meantime, you may want to begin setting aside your recycled material for future pickup. Stillwater, MN. Newsletter July 19139 Taxation truths (Continued from page 3) Costs of major infrastructure projects increased dramatically for cities in 1986. Capital expenditures for enterprise operations elimination of $40 million in federal general revenue sharing and the limits on the state's local government aid funding, total aid to Minnesota's cities will most likely resume its steep decline. In real (inflation adjusted) dollars, combined federal and state aid to Minnesota cities dropped 16 percent between 1978 and 1986, according to state auditor information. With the elimination of general revenue sharing in 1987, the total decline between 1978 and 1987 will be approximately 23 percent. Federal Aid Trends. Between 1978 and 1986, federal aid to Minnesota cities dropped 48 percent. In 1978, federal aid represented over 15 percent of total revenues for Minnesota cities, but by 1986 that share had ben cut almost in half, dropping to eight percent. Federal aid in 1978 contributed $3 for every $4 Minnesota cities raised in property taxes, by 1986 federal aid provided only $1.15 for every $4 of city property taxes. State Aid Trends. As federal assistance to cities has plummeted, the state has tried to fill the resulting revenue gap through the local government aid program and other propety tax relief programs. Yet the state's fiscal problems, revenue volatility, and changing budget priorities have prevented this. Local government aid (LGA) represents the largest portion of state aid to cities. LGA accounts for over half of such funding. The LGA program receives an annual appropriation and, therefore, fluctuates from year to year depending upon the state's fiscal situation and competing budget priorities. For example, large cuts in LGA occurred in 1982 -83 as a result of the state's budget crisis. For 1988, LGA will remain frozen at its 1987 level. After adjusting for inflation, funding for LGA in 1988 will be seven present below what it was in 1979. City spending has not increased Recently many people have said that local government spending is out of control, caused - some argue - by an overly generous property tax relief system that has stimulated local spending. The record on city spending clearly does not support these contentions. As of 1986 (the latest available state auditor's data), per capita city spending in real dollars was no higher than it was 10 years ago, in 1978. (See Chart 2.) According to state auditor's data, per capita city spending in 1978 stood at $359.34. After discounting for inflation, per capita city spending in 1986 was $355.58, one percent below the 1978 level. In January 1988, State Auditor Arne Carlson released the annual report on city revenues, expenditures, and debt for 1986. The report indicated that cities spent 10.8 percent more in 1986 than they did in the previous year. In releasing the report, however, Carlson praised cities for their efficient delivery of services and made clear that city governments were not the culprits for such a large spending increase. The Star Tribune on Jan. 30, 1988 reported Carlson's opinions: "The blame for higher spending lies not with the cities ....The fault is with the federal government for spending cuts in areas such as water and sewer improvements ....And it lies with the state government for not sharing the burden, and indeed unloading its burden onto the cities." The auditor's report for fiscal year 1986 indicated that cities in Minnesota spent $396.1 million for streets and highways in 1986, up 8.1 percent over 1985. Almost 60 percent of these expenditures were for new equipment and construction. such as municipal sewer and water systems, electrical power plants, ambulance services, and recreation operations totaled over $100 million, a 47.2 percent increase over 1985. Both of these increases result more from the elimination or decrease in federal assistance through general revenue sharing and wastewater treatment facility grants than from increasing the size or number of public works projects. Cities have heaviest reliance on local taxes Over the past decade, cities have had every incentive to be frugal in their spending patterns. Federal and state assistance has declined and cities have been forced to rely more heavily on their local tax base. The argument that city officials are not accountable for their spending is absurd in light of the evidence that city spending in real dollars has not increased, but local taxes have. As indicated in Chart 3, cities' heavy reliance on local taxes is in sharp contrast to how other local units of government in Minnesota finance their expenditures. According to the state auditor's information, cities raise 63 percent of their revenues locally, counties raise only 46 percent of their revenues locally, and school districts raise only 44 percent locally. Chart 3 CITIES MOST DEPENDENT ON LOCAL TAXES CITY Federal & -_ State Aid COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT Local Revenue (63.0 %) Federal & Federal & State Aid State Aid Local Revenue Local Revenue (46.0 %) (44.0%) Source: MN State Auditor fT T? t1*11water Scene Official City Newsletter STI LLW �. c AS '0' , 1854 Vol. 1; No. 1 Stillwater, MN. 55082 April, 1989 Downtown Plan promises changes What happens when you approach a project without planning ahead? It often results in a lot of wasted time, effort and money. The City Council realized this in 1986 when it was considering some major, and costly, improvements to Water Street and other specific projects in the downtown area. The council felt uncomfortable making the expenditures without having a more comprehensive view of the entire downtown area. For example, how would the projects affect parking? Or, would the street and sidewalk design be consistent with an overall development theme for downtown? The council decided it needed to have an overall plan in place rather than proceeding with the projects in a piecemeal fashion. This viewpoint was also shared by downtown Property owners whose businesses would be affected by the projects and who would be asked to pay a share of the costs of any public improvements. The first step the City took was to hire a planner to develop a plan and to also act as the community development director and zoning administrator. Steve Russell was hired to fill the position; the Downtown Plan was completed and - adopted in October 1988. Adoption of the plan means things are going to start happening downtown, and soon. One of the first things residents will notice is some changes in parking. Starting this year, the City will be implementing a parking management program. The program is intended to provide "the best use of existing spaces." Changes may include adjusting parking time limits, a sharing or joint use of public and private parking spaces as well as providing employee parking away from the commercial, high -demand parking area of downtown. The parking management program will also include additional study of financing options, the location and design of a parking ramp in the south Main Street area, as well as working on the possible relocation of railroad trunk lines downtown. Residents could see even more dramatic changes. For example, a $5 million facelift in the form of new street lighting, landscaping and tiled sidewalks is planned for the downtown. The project area would include the area from the river to Main Street between the south Main Street parking lot to Chestnut Street. The plan also includes improvements to Lowell Park including an underground irrigation system, underground utilities, expansion of Lowell Park north to Mulberry Point, and last, but not least, improvements to the riverfront levee. The "beautification project" still needs Council approval to bring it from "plan" to "project" status. Financing of the projects would also have to be determined and approved by the City Council. According to Russell, the City might be able to secure some financial assistance, such as grants or donations, from outside agencies for the park expansion and for improvements to the levee. Probably the most costly aspect of the Downtown Plan is for improvements that residents probably aren't going to notice. That aspect of the plan is about $10 million in improvements to the area's infrastructure (utilities such as sewer, water and storm sewer). Much of the initial improvements to the infrastructure (See Downtown back page) Plans for a new three - story, 13,000 square -foot office building to be built on north Main Street, at the old Arrow Building site, were the first reviewed by the Downtown Plan review committee. garbage pick -up schedule The following are the changes for garbage pick -up schedules for the upcoming holidays. MEMORIAL DAY Monday May 29 - No pick -up service Tuesday , May 30 - All of Monday's route and Tuesday's route east of Greeley Street Wednesday, May 31 - Tuesday's route west of Greeley Street and all of Wednesday's route Thursday, June 1 - The regular Thursday route Friday, June 2 - The regular Friday route JULY 4TH Monday, July 3 - All of Monday's route and Tuesday's route east of Greeley Street Tuesday, July 4 - No pick -up service Wednesday, July 5 - Tuesday's route west of Greeley Street and all of Wednesday's route Thursday, July 6 - The regular Thursday route Friday, July 7 - The regular Friday route The City Council recently approved a rate increase for solid waste collection and disposal services. The new rate, which went into effect April 1, is: $14.65 per - month for regular households; $11.25 per - month for senior citizens. The rate increase is primarily due to an increase in the tipping fees (the charge the waste hauler must pay to dispose of solid waste) that are charged at the Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) facility in Newport. All waste generated in Washington County, except for yard and wood waste and white goods (appliances), must be taken to the RDF facility which was built as an alternative to disposing of waste in landfills. The tipping fee charged at the RDF plant is currently higher than tipping fees charged at landfills. However, existing and pending legislation will eventually require alternative disposal facilities for all counties; burying waste will no longer be acceptable. Although it is doubtful that the cost of disposing of solid waste will decrease, the atlernative disposal facilities should reduce the amount of waste disposed of in landfills and thereby reduce the impact on the environment. The City's Solid Waste Advisory Committee is in the process of developing solid waste reduction strategies, including recycling. It is anticipated that the Committee will give the City Council its report and recommendations by mid -April. It is hoped that the Committee's report will include ways in which the city can reduce waste and/or the cost of collecting and disposing of waste. Pet owners reminded that dog licenses are due May 1 The 1989 dog licenses are due May 1. Pet owners who did not submit a rabies certificate last year, must have a current certificate when applying for a new license. The license fee for both male and female dogs is $5. Notice: It is against city ordinance to allow any animal to run at large in the city. City Council Stillwater, MN. Newsletter April, 1989 Holidays mean Tipping fee increase causes changes in hike in refuse pick -up costs Stillwater, MN. Newsletter April, 1989 Street addresses required by law Have you ever tried finding a residence without the benefit of seeing the address numbers on the house or mailbox? It can be somewhat difficult, and may be the reason some deliveries (mail, newspapers, etc.) arrive late, if at all. It can also be somewhat dangerous, especially if an emergency situation occurs and the police, fire or other emergency personnel are looking for a residence without address numbers. Why take a chance? If your residence and/or mailbox does not have numbers, consider placing them in the proper place. It's smarter, safer and, in fact, it's the law required by City Code Chapter 24.03, Subd. 4, which reads as follows: Each building shall bear the number assigned to the frontage on which the front entrance is located. In case a principal building is occupied by more than one business or family dwelling unit, each front entrance of such principal building shall bear a separate number. Numerals indicating the official numbers for each principal building shall be reflectorized and a minimum of three inches in height and posted at least five feet from the threshold. Board of Review meets April 25 The Board of Review for the City of Stillwater will meet at City Hall, 216 N. Fourth St., on Tuesday, April 25, from 3 to 7 p.m. to review and correct valuations on real property for 1989. Any property owner who believes his or her property has been incorrectly valued may appear before the Board to show cause for having the valuation corrected. New sewer rates are in effect Effective April 1, the sanitary sewer service charge for residential users is as follows: The minimum charge is $39 for each quarter (three calendar months), plus an overage charge of $2.10 for every 1,000 gallons of water used in excess of 10,000 gallons. The overage charge is based on water usage during the first three calendar months of each year. Clogged sewers create problem There continues to be a problem of sanitary sewer line blockages due to certain types of material being placed in the sanitary sewer system. Materials that are causing the blockages include disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, clothing and rags, cooking grease as well as oil or oil -base materials and chemicals. Ninety -five percent of the blockages occur between the home and the main sewer line and the cost of removing the blockage is the responsibility of the homeowner. The cost of removing blockages in the main sewer line is the responsibility of the City. However, the cost is eventually passed on to the homeowner through the sanitary sewer service charge. The Public Works Department recommends that any kind of article that could potentially block a sewer line not be disposed of in the sanitary sewer system. It would be to everyone's benefit if the recommendation is followed. portraits Roberta Opheim's goal is for the city to begin implementing the Downtown Plan this year. She said the council needs to make sure the Downtown Plan is "off and running, not collecting dust. To be worth anything the plan has to be implemented. Our downtown is pretty special, it needs to be taken cue of." Opheim was born in Virginia, Minn., and attended school in Chisholm. She attended Gustavus Adolphus College and majored in psychology. She and her husband, Gary, have two sons, Justin, age 13, a student at Oak -Land Junior High, and Scott, age 7, a student at Lily Lake. Opheim's involvement in city government began when she opened a business downtown. She became president of the Downtown Council in 1984 and worked with the current city council on the Main Street Program. She was appointed to the city council in 1986 to fill the unexpired term of former councilman Brad MacDonald and was elected to her first full term in November 1988. Stillwater, MN. Newsletter April, 1989 Downtown Plan (Cont. from Page 1) will be to correct existing conditions in a way that will be consistent with the overall Downtown Plan. It is expected that some of the financing for the infrastructure improvements will come from the City's tax increment financing districts. A lot of work is "deferred maintenance" on the existing utility system, specifically old sewer and water lines. It is estimated that about $2.3 million in tax increment financing will be available for the projects. One beautification project won't require any City money at all. A spring cleanup of the downtown area is scheduled for Saturday, May 6. This is a good start and hopefully the cleanup "attitude" will spread to other areas of our beautiful City. Other aspects of the Downtown Plan that won't be as noticeable and won't require major expenditures, but are key elements in the plan, are those that address design and land use in the downtown area. A design review committee has been appointed to review plans for new developments as well as proposed redevelopment or renovation of existing structures. The review committee's first job was to review plans for a new project - a three -story, 13,000 square -foot office building located at the old Arrow Building site on north Main Street - a project which won the committee's enthusiastic support. A design manual including guidelines and illustrations has been printed and is available for developers proposing remodeling projects or new building construction. The design manual is available for review at City Hall or the Stillwater Public Library. Copies of the design manual and the Downtown Plan may be purchased at City Hall. Land use is being addressed in zoning changes in the downtown area. The changes include formation of a new central business /commercial district; elimination of the heavy and light industrial districts downtown; establishment of a new park/recreation /open space district which includes the lands adjacent to the river; and formation of a public administration district which will include City Hall, the library and Trinity Lutheran Church on the North Hill and Stillwater Junior High School, the Historic Courthouse and nearby churches on the South Hill. All of the plans or projects mentioned are consistent with the goals and objectives of the recently adopted Downtown Plan which states, in part: "The goal of the Downtown Plan is to enhance and retain the historic rivertown image of Stillwater through a conscientious and gradual process of changes and economic growth so that Stillwater, 'The Birthplace of Minnesota; continues to be a special place to live, work and visit." Let's do it! Spring cleanup scheduled Spring clean-up is scheduled for April 29 and 30 and May 6 and 7. Dumpsters will be available at the old dump site on Myrtle Street, between Boutwell Road and Deerpath Street, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Residents may bring all types of waste, including yard and wood waste, refuse oil, batteries, tires, appliances, furniture etc. Hazardous waste, garbage and construction material will not be accepted. The City's solid waste hauler, Junker Sanitation, is required to collect the above mentioned acceptable waste during regular pick -up days. Yard waste must be bagged separately and brush must be in bundles not exceeding three -feet and 30 pounds in weight. Heed weather warnings Minnesota is a great place to live! But, we do have severe weather from time to time and we should be prepared. Parents - know where your children are and be sure they understand your emergency plans. (You do have a plan, don't you ?) Stay near the radio or take it with you so you can stay abreast of changing weather conditions. Also, be aware of what to do when the sirens are sounded. The sirens are used to warn citizens of imminent danger and advise them to seek shelter immediately. Sometimes the sirens are activated and the weather does not become severe. However, the city has a "better safe than sorry" attitude regarding severe weather. So, stay alert and do not take the sirens lightly. Building permits save worry Residents are reminded that all building construction work in excess of $500 requires a permit from the City of Stillwater. Anyone with questions, should contact the Building Inspector's office, 439 -6121. All contractors performing work must be licensed by the City of Stillwater. Anyone who wants to find out whether or not a contractor is licensed should call the City Clerk's office, 439 -6121. Hiring a licensed and insured contractor provides some protection in case of faulty work and a possible default claim. Spending a few dollars more now could end up saving you quite a few dollars later. Smoke is cause for alarms Where there's smoke, there should be an alarm The Stillwater Fire Department would like to remind all residents of the importance of smoke alarms. It has been proven that smoke alarms save lives, something we have experienced firsthand in Stillwater. All homes should have at least one smoke alarm installed near the sleeping area. Smoke alarms should be tested on a monthly basis. It is also recommended that you prepare a fire escape plan. Be prepared for a fire before it happens. Ask yourself the following questions: Do you have smoke alarms in your home? Where are they located? Are they battery operated or electrically wired? Do you have a fire escape plan? Do you practice the plan? If you need some assistance in developing a fire escape plan or in determining where to install smoke alarms, consider calling the Fire Department (439- 6120). Fire prevention as well as fire suppression is a primary function ' of the Fire Department and it is ready to provide both services. Stillwater Downtown Plan NEWSLETTER For Historic Downtown Stillwater, Minnesota SPRING 1989 IMPORTANT PUBLIC MEETING The City Council has called a public meeting for Tuesday, April 11, 1989 at 7:00 P.M. in the City Hall Council Chambers to review the first phase of Downtown improvements and to discuss a financing program for the improvements. First phase improvements include primarily addressing existing problems with the utility systems. Downtown water and sewer lines are over one hundred years old. Some of the lines are leaking and in poor condition. This is not a new problem. The Metropolitan Wastewater Control Commission has previously warned the City that the I & I (Inflow and infiltration) problem needs to be corrected. By correcting the sewer problem and eliminating clean water flowing into the sewer line, City sewer flows should decrease. Other first phase improvements include constructing storm sewer mains for areas without them, repairing streets and sidewalks, and bringing City parking lots up to current development standards. Most of the phase one improvements can be considered maintenance or replacement of existing utilities and facilities. Second phase improvements will include plaza development, waterfront improvements, river walkway improvements, parking structure, and purchase and improvement of Mulberry Point. To finance the $6,000,000 First Phase improvements, a financing program has been developed that includes several funding sources; Tax Increment Bonds ($2,500,000), Sewer Revenue Bonds ($500,000), special sewer and parking service districts ($300,00), reserve funds and retained earnings ($300,00) and special assessments ($2,000,000). Special assessment projects represent approximately 82% of the total project costs with 40% assessed to property owners. The special assessments will increase property tax and /or rents for businesses in the Downtown. However, the improvements will result in a more attractive, better serviced place to shop, work, live and do business. Your thoughts on the phasing of improvements and financing are important to the Council so plan to attend the meeting on April 11th. Downtown Plan Adopted On October 24, 1988 the Stillwater City Council unanimously approved the Downtown Plan. The plan provides a guide for future City improvements and private development. The plan includes sections on land use, transportation and parking, urban design, and utility improvements. It is estimated that more than 10 million dollars in improvements are needed in the Downtown to maintain existing utility systems in order to meet current standards and to improve the image of Downtown. The plan sets the blueprint for Downtown development and related improvements. The timing of improvements will depend on the availability of Federal, State, and Local revenues. VOLUME I, NUMBER I Spring Cleanup Scheduled for Saturday, May 6th The annual Downtown Spring Cleanup is scheduled for May 6th. The event is sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Business Association and City of Stillwater. Property and business owners are asked to cleanup their building and property. Volunteers and City crews will cleanup the streets, parks, parking lots, and other public areas. The event is scheduled for 9:00 A.M. (meet at 8:30 A.M. in front of the gazebo in Lowell Park) to 12:00 Noon with a picnic lunch following in Lowell Park. Awards will be given to properties showing /needing the most improvement. If you have ideas regarding Downtown cleanup areas talk with Bob Weiser 430 -2625, or Tom Farrell 439 -7193. If you would like to volunteer, talk with Don Valsvik 439 -4750 or Wally Milbrandt 439 -0185. If you would like to contribute money to help pay costs or contribute prizes, contact Maurice Stenerson at 439 -5329. Let's make the Spring Cleanup a successful and fun filled event. Main Street Stillwater June 1928 Photo by J. Runk Courtesy Stillwater Public Library Downtown Plan Steering Committee Completes Job Well Done The Downtown Plan Steering Committee completed its work on the Downtown Plan with the City adoption of the plan in October. The Committee met over fifty times between June 1987 and October 1988, including several workshops, four public hearings, presentations to interested local groups, field trips and numerous subcommittee meetings. The committee members include Chairman George Parker, Barrett Colombo, Judy Curtis, Bob De St. Aubin, Tom Farrell, Meg Heaton, Paul Keleher, Wally Milbrandt, Joe Nolde, Roberta Opheim, Maurice Stenerson, Don Valsvik, Bob Weiser, and Steve Zinnel. A hearty thanks goes to this group for putting in their time and effort to improve the future of the Downtown. First Plans for Downtown Development Reviewed A five member Downtown Design Review Committee was recently appointed by the City Council to make sure new development retains or is complimentary to the historic character of Downtown. Design guidelines contained in the Downtown Plan are used by the Committee to review new development projects. If a project is consistent with the guidelines, it is recommended for approval to the Planning Commission. If it is not, changes in the plans will be recommended. The Design Review Committee recently reviewed the plans for a three story office building proposed to be constructed just north of the Maple Island plant. The Committee felt the office project was consistent with the guidelines because of the building height (three stories), parking spaces provided, building material (Stillwater Brick), provision for widening Mulberry Street, site landscaping and space for pedestrian pathway connecting to the future river walkway. The Committee also felt the new office building would be a fine addition to the North Main Street area. Members of the Downtown Design Review Committee are: Shawn Draper, Mark Ehlenz, Dick Hauer, Maureen Lodge, and Linda Smith. DOWNTOWN FACTS Number of parking spaces in Downtown .........................2,384 Number of Downtown businesses ...... ............................185 Amount of commerical floor space .... ........................730,002 sq. ft. Number of residential units ........... ............................370 Number of full and part time employees ..........................2,338 Number of daily trips on Stillwater Bridge .......................13,500 Number of daily trips on Stillwater Bridge in 1962 .................4,900 Oldest building in Downtown Stillwater? (Call 439 -6121 if you know) Council to Review New Downtown Zoning District April 4, 1989 The need for a new Downtown Commercial Zoning District was first described in the Downtown Plan. The existing zoning of the Downtown was established in the 1960's. The current districts allow heavy and light industrial uses in parts of the Downtown. The new district would eliminate heavy industrial uses but continue to allow light office type industrial uses with Special Use Permit review. Other permitted uses would include retail, office and service uses. The new Central Business District (CBD) establishes height limits (fifty feet or four stories) setback and lot size requirements. the Planning Commission reviewed the new Ordinance at their meeting of March 13 and recommended it for City Council approval with the addition of requiring all outside storage areas to be screened from public view. Downtown Plan and Design Manual Available Copies of the Downtown Plan and Design Manual are available for review at the City Library, Chamber of Commerce and City Hall or can be purchased at City Hall, 216 North Fourth Street. Cost of the Downtown Plan is $10.00 and the Design Manual is $5.00. New Downtown Plan Action Committee Appointed A new nine member Downtown Plan Action Committee was appointed by the City Council to oversee implementation of the Downtown Plan. Committee members include Tom Farrell, Wally Milbrandt, Roberta Opheim, Jean Remington, Jack Shelton, Maurice Stenerson, Ed Stuart, Don Valsvik, and Bob Weiser. Some of the responsibilities of the Action Commettee include: develop parking management plan, evaluate location and financing alternatives for parking structures, establish design perimeters for image improvements, provide for public participation in implementation process and pursue private financial support for improvements. If you have ideas on implementation of the Downtown Plan, or other ideas regarding Downtown improvements, mention them to a Downtown Plan Action Committee member. New Sign Regulations A new Sign Ordinance was recently approved by the City Council for the Downtown. The new Ordinance applies to temporary signs as well as permanent signs. If you intend to change your signs, contact the Planning Department at 439 -6121 for the new sign regulations and a sign permit. The Downtown Plan Newsletter will be printed twice a year to help keep property owners and city residents informed on downtown improvements and new developements.