120117 Friday Weekly Update MemoMemorandum
To: New Hope Council, Management Team
cc: J. Beck, C. Long, S. Sondrall, Commissioners, S. Larson, M. Thorstad, J. McGann
From: Kirk McDonald, City Manager
Date: December 1, 2017
Subject: Weekly Council Update
1. Reminders
Special work session to review police station/city hall bids on 12/4 at 6:30 pm in council chambers
Budget public hearing on 12/4 at 7 pm in council chambers
Employee appreciation event on 12/7 at 4:45 pm
Holiday Train on 12/10 at 3:35 pm at CP Rail Crossing near new New Hope Ice Arena (poster attached)
2. 11/20 Council Work Session Follow‐up
HRG 2018 Rates & Programs – The 2018 recycling rates (no increase from 2017) will be included with the
2018 utility rates resolution presented at the 12/11 council meeting. As soon as the dates for the bulky
waste curbside pickup are scheduled for the spring of 2018, the council and residents will be informed.
Also, staff will include information in future city media sources informing residents that Simple Recycling
bags are available at the city hall front counter.
2018‐2027 Pavement Management Plan/Strategy – The plan will continue to be implemented and updated
as necessary. Staff will be preparing a media release/future In Touch article regarding the progress being
made: pavement rating index increasing 10 points over last 4 years, number of water main breaks being
reduced, percentage of street with poor rating declining, etc. The city engineer will follow up with the
Council regarding the percentage of sewer pipes that have been lined and the original tonnage
construction on Elm Grove Ave.
Engineering services agreements with Stantec Consulting Services Inc. for the new police station and
city hall (#994) and for the Civic Center Park (#941) and pool master planning (#995) – The amended
agreement was placed on the 11/27 council agenda for consideration.
2017 Performance Measures Survey Results – The results of the survey were incorporated into the budget
presentation, were discussed on cable tv and a media release/In Touch article will be prepared noting the
increased resident satisfaction with the quality of city streets (63% Excellent or Good in 2016, 75% Excellent
or Good in 2017).
2018 Budget – Staff will proceed to prepare for the 12/4 budget public hearing with the budget in its
current form, including the proposed 2018 utility rate increases. A request to implement the 2.5% cost of
living increase for 2018 will be placed on the 12/11 council agenda.
Long‐Term Financial Plan – The plan will continue to be discussed and modified as needed, and the
minor corrections noted will be incorporated into the plan. Some of the assumptions will be further
discussed when the 2019 budget planning process gets underway in the spring of 2018.
Refuse Haulers – Staff worked with the city attorney to prepare an ordinance amendment capping the
maximum number of garbage and refuse licenses allowed within the city to six, and the item was placed
on the 11/27 council agenda.
December 1, 2017 Page 2 of 9
On‐Sale Liquor Hours during 2018 Super Bowl – A resolution was placed on the 11/27 council agenda
allowing liquor establishments extended hours during Super Bowl activities per Minnesota Statutes.
Establishments would need to apply for a special permit and pay an additional fee.
2018 Commission Appointments – Per council direction, staff will prepare resolutions for the 12/11 and
1/8 council meetings reappointing city commissioners and making other annual appointments (Mayor Pro
Tem, Fire Board, etc.)
3. 11/27 Council Meeting Follow‐up
In Focus Awards – Media release to be prepared and winning photos posted on website.
Electric Ice Edger – The order with Frank J. Zamboni & Co. for $6,547.50 will be placed. Once the new
edger is in service (spring 2018) the current one will be sold.
Stantec engineering services agreements addendums – The addendums for an additional $38,500 in
services for the city hall civil site work and $30,000 for master park/pool planning have been executed.
Final Payment for 2016 Northwood South Infrastructure Improvement Project – Payment of $44,592.43
has been issued to GMH Asphalt.
Final Payment for 2016 Municipal State Aid Infrastructure Improvement Project – Payment of $28,138.43
has been issued to SR Weidema.
Final Payment for 2017 Crack Repair and Seal Coat Project – Payment of $19,555.46 has been issued to
Allied Blacktop.
Polling Places for 2018 Elections – The signed resolution has been sent to Hennepin County.
2018 MSA Infrastructure Improvement Project – Staff will work with Stantec to have the plans and
specifications prepared for Council to consider in January.
Jewel’s CAVE Wine and Beer License – Paperwork has been submitted to the state. Once approval has
been received from the state, the license will be issued.
Commercial Recreational Use and Retail Sales at 9449 Science Center Dr – The CUP and administrative
use permit for SafePoint has been issued and CD staff will follow up on the conditions of approval.
Self‐Storage Facility at 3216 Winnetka Ave – The CUP for Pamlico Investments has been issued and CD
staff will follow up on the conditions of approval.
Police Department and City Hall Site Plan – Approved.
2018 55th Avenue Mill and Overlay Construction Feasibility Report – Staff will work with Stantec to
prepare a feasibility report for the Council to consider in the future.
Hidden Valley Park Playground Equipment & Wood Fiber – The contract with Flagship
Recreation/Landscape Structures for $29,040.40 has been executed. The equipment will be ordered/received
in December and then installed in the spring once weather conditions are suitable.
Residential Garbage and Refuse Collectors Licensing Regulations Ordinance Amendment – The
reduction to 6 licenses will be effective upon ordinance publication in the Sun Post.
Special Permits to Allow for Later Closing Times of On‐Sale Liquor Licensees – On‐sale liquor licensees
will be notified of the option to remain open until 4 am February 2‐5 (3 nights). Those wishing to do so will
need to submit the application and $250 fee.
December 1, 2017 Page 3 of 9
Electric Ice Resurfacer ‐ The order with Frank J. Zamboni & Co. for $117,299.55 will be placed. The current
resurfacer will be traded in for the new one. Delivery is expected in spring 2018.
4. Space Needs Study
Staff met with Wold Architects on 11/14 to review the bid documents, discuss the bid day process and
discuss the construction process; see attached minutes. Bids from contractors were opened on 11/30 and
reviewed by staff on 12/1. The bids will be reviewed by the Council at a special work session on 12/4, prior
to the budget public hearing, and will be presented for formal action at the 12/11 council meeting.
5. Bond Rating Call/Official Statement
Staff have been working with Ehlers and AEM over the last several weeks to complete information for the
official statement for the sale of the bonds. The statement was distributed this week with electronic copies
sent to the Council. Staff, AEM and Ehlers conducted the bond rating call with Standard & Poors on 11/29
and the call went favorably; they were impressed with the improved economic conditions, financial
stability and redevelopment activity. I again requested consideration of an upgraded bond rating. It is
anticipated that the rating will be issued on 12/6 and the Council will be kept updated. Ehlers will conduct
the bond sale on 12/11 and present the results at the council meeting.
6. State Bonding for Pool Improvements
On 11/29, the mayor and I traveled to the Minnesota Senate Building for a meeting with Senator Ann Rest,
Representative Lyndon Carlson and appropriate capitol staff to discuss a potential state bonding request, if
a regional pool facility (50‐meter) were to be constructed. Staff will be following up with additional
information for capitol staff regarding the cost differential between 25‐ and 50‐meter pools, separate from
the other amenities discussed (current channel, lazy river, shallow pool, etc.). The pool facility will be
discussed at the 12/18 work session.
7. Finance Award
Per the attached letter the city received from the Government Finance Officers Association on 11/28, the
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the fiscal year ended 12/31/16 qualifies the city for a
Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. The letter states that “the Certificate of
Achievement is the highest form of recognition in government accounting and financial reporting, and its
attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management”. A Certificate
of Achievement plaque will be presented to the council at the 12/11 council meeting. Thanks are extended
to AEM and our city staff for helping us achieve this goal again this year.
8. Blue Line Light Rail
The mayor and I attended another Blue Line Light Rail coalition meeting on 11/28; see attached agenda and
materials that were distributed. The main focus of the meeting was to continue to develop strategy for
federal funding and site visits. Draft correspondence to legislators was distributed along with a draft
coalition charter. The Council will be kept updated as this progresses.
Community Development
Redevelopment
Ironwood Apartments – The construction of the Ironwood Apartments is well underway. They are currently
setting the precast panels and will continue to do so for quite some time. Work, on the golf course 9th‐hole
pond, will begin once the ground is frozen to incorporate a decorative riprap (rocks) around the perimeter, as
well as a drain tile system to help with storm water management. The overall construction efforts are still
meeting the proposed timeline with the apartments set to open in December 2018. Progress picture attached.
December 1, 2017 Page 4 of 9
Good Samaritan Society – Good Samaritan has begun the excavation and groundwork in anticipation of the
construction of the new 3‐story, 31‐unit assisted living facility. They will continue construction through the
winter months.
3216 Winnetka Avenue North – A letter was sent to the applicant for the warehouse conversion to self‐storage
outlining the conditions of approval and responding to questions. The applicant anticipates closing on the
building in January 2018 and beginning construction in the spring.
SafePoint – The City Council approved the Conditional Use Permit for an indoor commercial recreation
facility with retail sales at 9449 Science Center Drive. SafePoint will be operating a gun range and retails sales,
along with a training facility at this location. Representatives from this company estimate that between $3.5 ‐
$4 million of improvements will be made to the building.
Community Development News
So Long, Roger Axel! – The city’s building official, Roger Axel, has announced his retirement, with his last day
being 1/31/18. Roger has committed 15 years of service to the city, and has done so with a keen attention to
detail. Over the last 15 years, he has seen a huge influx in redevelopment and has helped shape the city to
what it is today. Thank you, Roger, for your dedication and a job well done! The city is currently in the process
of recruiting for a new building official with the hopes of hiring for the position by the end of January 2018.
Planning Commission – The Planning Commission is scheduled to convene on 12/5 at 7:00 pm to review the
following text amendments:
Increase to park dedication fee schedule.
Increase to allowable size of directional signs.
Requirement of moisture sensor irrigation controllers for new developments.
Requirement of yard signs for land use petition requests.
Small cell wireless in right‐of‐way.
Elimination of screening requirements for air conditioning units.
Holiday Train ‐ Flyers promoting the holiday train stop were distributed to the elementary schools in New
Hope and Crystal and will be sent home with all students. Posters were also supplied to local businesses,
Crystal City Hall and the Rockford Road Library. The event is also being promoted with a water bill insert,
Community Corner story, Facebook posts, the city’s website, and the city’s reader board signs. The train is
scheduled to arrive at the ice arena on Sunday, 12/10 at 3:35 pm with a musical performance from 3:45 pm to
4:15 pm. Those attending are encouraged to bring heart healthy food and cash donations, which will benefit
The Food Group.
YMCA Community Healthy Living Index – Staff attended a kickoff meeting at the YMCA as part of the New
Hope Community Healthy Living Index committee on 11/29. The committee will be developing an action plan
that will provide strategic direction on the YMCA’s role and impact in the community with an ultimate goal of
improving health in the community. The city’s involvement with Hennepin County Active Living and the
Minnesota GreenStep Cities Program will assist the committee in collecting data. The city of Crystal is also
participating in the initiative.
December 1, 2017 Page 5 of 9
Scattered Site Housing Projects
3984 Zealand Avenue ‐ The rehabilitation work is moving along swiftly on this project. The exterior painting
work is nearly complete, and the new garage door has been installed. Photo attached.
7303 62nd Avenue ‐ The demolition survey has been completed, and no asbestos containing materials were
identified. Staff sent requests for qualification for demolition quotes to contractors and plans to seek approval
of the demolition contract at the 1/8 city council meeting.
3751 Louisiana Avenue ‐ The City closed on the sale of this lot to Regal Homes on 11/29. The building permit
for the new home has been issued, and construction will begin immediately.
Business Networking Group Meetings
The next Business Networking Group meeting dates, times and locations are as follows:
December 6, 2017 at 8:30 am Affinity Plus Credit Union, hosted by Tara Rutz
December 20, 2017 TBD Holiday Party – time and location TBD
January 3, 2018 at 8:30 am Dane Tax Solutions, hosted by Dennis Dane
January 17, 2018 at 2:00 pm Saint Therese, hosted by Keri Manson
February 7, 2018 at 8:30 am Country Kitchen, hosted by Tony Hawk
February 22, 2018 at 2:00 pm Minnesota Rusco, hosted by Angela Kohout
Police
Chief Fournier attended a city engineering meeting.
Chief Fournier attended a meeting at Cooper High School regarding new school diversion programs.
Cooper recently received a grant to devise a new in‐school diversion program aimed at reducing the
number of arrests of students of color. SROs Fritzke and Abramovich were also present. The meetings will
occur monthly.
Officer Korth launched the police department’s yearly campaign to collect toys for the needy. A collection
box has been placed at the police department and residents Mike and Allison Isenberg will hold their
annual Toy Fest 12/1‐3. All toys will be donated to the police department.
There were 798 police related events from Nov 17 – 30, 2017.
Public Works
Highlights of Maintenance
Patched curb cuts at 5400 Yukon Ave & 9000
Science Center Dr
Inspected sidewalks
Prepared hockey rink
Trimmed trees
Responded to request at City Hall & Police
Replaced faucet in City Hall break room
Installed new bench by Hidden Valley shelter
Removed graffiti at Hidden Valley Park
Cleaned grit chambers
Finished monthly low spot jetting list
Hydro excavated and back filled pole for the siren
at fire hall
Cleaned and organized back yard of shop for
winter.
2017 Utility Billing Certifications
The 2017 Utility Billing Certification process began on 7/31 with a total amount past due of $353,062.37. On
11/30, final certification amount of $202,819.31 was transferred to Hennepin County.
Highlights of Management
Weekly Stantec meeting
Hennepin County Public Works Emergency
Management Group meeting
Management team meeting
Shingle Creek Water Management TAC meeting
Joint Water Commission TAC meeting
Public works supervisors meeting
Projects and Miscellaneous
Project 938/967 – 2016 Northwood Lake and Park Improvements – Met onsite with local welding company to
discuss quotes on replacing the irrigation box lid.
Project 962 – 2016 MSA Infrastructure Improvements – Project close out occurred at the 11/27 council
meeting.
Project 974 – 2016 Northwood South Area Infrastructure Improvements – Project close out occurred at the
11/27 council meeting.
Project 996 – Sanitary Sewer Lining – The contractor expects to begin the lining next week.
Project 998 – 2017 Seal Coat and Fog Seal – Project close out occurred at the 11/27 council meeting.
Project 999 – 2018 MSA Infrastructure Improvements – Council authorized the preparation of plans and
specifications at the 11/27 council meeting.
Project 1010 – 55th Avenue Mill and Overlay – Council authorized the preparation of a feasibility study at the
11/27 meeting.
Parks and Recreation
The winter session of dance started this week. There will be a Happy Holidays Paint on Canvas class this
Saturday, and an Elf on the Shelf Story Time class on Monday. Both classes will be held at the Crystal
Community Center.
Orientation for the ice rink/warming house staff will be held on Wednesday. The rinks are scheduled to
open on 12/16, depending on the weather. Maintenance staff will start the ice making process next week if
the weather turns colder.
Staff continues to work on plans for summer programs and the brochure information, which is due by 1/2.
Staff will be attending the MRPA Athletic Management Institute on Wednesday and Thursday in Maple
Grove.
The replacement playground for Hidden Valley Park was approved by Council on Monday evening and
the equipment was ordered this week. The equipment will arrive by the end of the year and a spring
installation is planned. The arson investigation is still open.
Community Gyms continue to be busy. The house league youth basketball began this week. Men’s
basketball continues. Staff booked a group that wants to play cricket each Sunday morning from 7‐10 am
December 1, 2017 Page 7 of 9
through March. Sunday mornings are a really tough sell for rental space so that was a nice surprise. And
the Cooper Traveling Tournament will be held the weekend of 12/9‐10.
The golf course is still open for golf, weather permitting. Rentals at the clubhouse: Saturday – family
holiday dinner from 3‐6 pm; Sunday ‐ Cooper High class reunion/holiday gathering from 5‐9 pm. Staff
continues tree trimming on the course (photos attached), working with Alatus as needed and setting up
holiday decorations.
Open skating will be available tonight from 6:30‐8 pm and Sunday from 4 to 6 pm. Skate lessons will be
held tomorrow and Monday. The Adult Hockey Association has ice time rented both tomorrow and
Sunday night. Upcoming games include Armstrong/Cooper Girls vs Osseo/Park Center on Tuesday at 5
pm JV and 7 pm Varsity. A double header will be held on Thursday with Armstrong/Cooper Girls vs
Spring Lake Park and Armstrong/Cooper Boys vs Maple Grove. New skate tile has been installed in locker
rooms 5 and 6. Holiday decorations have been added in the entrance (photos attached). Mark your calendar
for Skate with Santa on 12/15 at 6:30 pm.
Finance
Prepared and processed cash disbursements and
electronic funds transfers
Prepared and processed cash receipts for bank
deposits from all departments
Processed UB/GL interface transactions
Prepared receivable invoices as requested by
departments
Prepared journal entries as requested
Prepared reclass entries as requested
Filed and paid monthly sales and use tax reports
Filed and paid monthly fuel tax reports
Prepare payroll 17‐24
Prepare council reports
Prepare July‐October financial reports
Attend Year end payroll meeting at LOGIS
Prepare 2011A annual transfer to escrow
Prepare for S&P rating call
Draft final budget resolutions
Human Resources
The preferred candidate for the full‐time police clerk position is being backgrounded.
The city received 14 applications for the housing/code enforcement inspector position. Applications are
being scored and interviews are planned for next week.
The building official vacancy created by the retirement notice from Roger Axel was posted internally with
no applications forthcoming. The position is advertised externally this week and will close on 12/11.
The last Wellness Lunch & Learn for 2017 was held on 11/29 with 22 people in attendance. The topic was
the relationship between stress and sleep.
Training on the new website for specific New Hope staff members will take place next week. Following the
training, updates will need to be made and additional content will need to be developed prior to the new
website’s launch.
Communications
Website
Information on the homepage of the website includes In Focus photo contest winner (with photos and
presentation), Holiday Train, Budget public hearing, Holiday food and toy drives, no on‐street parking
after snowfall, Winter trail maintenance in three parks and more.
Links to a Community Corner segment about the City Services Survey results featuring Kirk McDonald ‐
https://www.youtube.com/embed/9lA0uBZssvs?rel=0&autoplay=1 and a CCX News “Inside City Hall”
December 1, 2017 Page 8 of 9
segment about the SafePoint CUP approval and the Hidden Valley Park playground equipment
replacement https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xM9jvqbdhk have been added to the homepage.
Media
Information currently displayed on the City Center electronic reader board includes: Holiday food and toy
drives, Snow White at the Old Log, Snow Tubing at Wild Mountain, Musical Theatre Camps, Holiday
Train, Winter Break Sports Camps and more.
The communications coordinator wrote 11 media releases about In Focus photo contest winners and
upcoming recreation programs.
CCX News did a nice story about New Hope In Focus photo contest winners to wrap up their newscast on
Thursday, 11/30. A link to the newscast is provided below (ctrl/click to launch) with the story beginning at
16:23. http://ccxmedia.org/news/newsitem.aspx?newsid=1438&newsitemid=36653
Wrote talking points for a Community Corner story about Snowplowing Tips that will feature public
works operations manager Dave Lemke and air on December 11.
Other
Presented New Hope In Focus photo contest winners at the 11/27 council meeting.
Miscellaneous
1. Northwest Community Television/CCX Media Newsletter
The November/December issue of Spotlight is attached.
2. Ehlers’ MarketCommentary
The 11/21 issue of MarketCommentary is attached.
Meetings/Events for Next Week
Dec 4 6:30 pm – City Council Special Work Session – Review Police Station/City Hall bids
with Wold Architects
7 pm – Public Hearing for 2018 Budget
7 pm – Human Rights Commission Meeting
Dec 5 7 pm – Planning Commission Meeting
Dec 6 8:30 am – Business Network Group Meeting at Affinity Plus, 4231 Winnetka Ave N
` Joint Water Commission Meeting
Dec 7 City Manager/HR/Admin Department Staff Meeting
4:45 pm – Employee Appreciation Event
Dec 8 Noon – Employee Toy Drive & Potluck
Dec 10 3:00 pm – Holiday Train Event at CP Rail Crossing on 49th near New Hope Ice Arena
(3:35 pm train arrival, 3:45 pm program begins)
I will be in town this weekend. Have a good weekend.
December 1, 2017 Page 9 of 9
Attachments
Holiday Train Poster
Wold 11/14 Meeting Minutes
Finance Award Letter & Certificate
Blue Line Light Rail 11/28 Meeting Materials
Ironwood Apartments Progress Photo
3984 Zealand Ave Photo
Golf Course Tree Trimming Photos
Arena Holiday Decorations Photos
CCX Media’s November/December Spotlight
Ehlers’ 11/21 MarketCommentary
People Get Ready...
There’s a Holiday Train a ‘Comin!
Canadian Paci c Holiday Train
Sunday, December 10,
Arrives at 3:35 p.m., Show at 3:45 p.m.
New Hope Ice Arena,
4949 Louisiana Avenue N, New Hope, MN
Every year since 1999, Canadian Pacifi c’s annual Holiday Train has made stops across
the United States and Canada to spread holiday cheer and collect donations for local
food banks. In 2016, the Holiday Train stopped in New Hope for the fi rst time.
This year, the festively lit train is returning to New Hope! The stop will feature
a musical performance by Canadian recording artists Terri Clark, Kelly Prescott and
Dallas Smith. Audience mem bers are encouraged to donate heart-healthy nonperishable
food items and cash to benefi t The Food Group, which is based in New Hope.
Warm refreshments will be available.
Parking will be limited. Visit the city website, ci.new-hope.mn.us, for more information.
Donations benefi t:
MEMORANDUM
To: Attendees
From: Matt Rodgers | MR
Date: November 20, 2017
Revised November 28, 2017
Comm. No: 172007
Subject: City of New Hope
Police/City Hall Construction Document Page Turn
November 14, 2017 Meeting Minutes Revised
Attendees:
Kirk McDonald, City of New Hope, City Manager kmcdonald@ci.new-hope.mn.us
Val Leone, City of New Hope vleone@ci.new-hope.mn.us
Jerry Beck, City of New Hope jbeck@ci.new-hope.mn.us
Tim Fournier, Police Chief tfournier@ci.new-hope.mn.us
Jeff Sargent, City of New Hope jsargent@ci.new-hope.mn.us
Rich Johnson, City of New Hope rjohnson@ci.new-hope.mn.us
Susan Rader, City of New Hope srader@ci.new-hope.mn.us
Chris Long, Stantec chris.long@stantec.com
Joel Dunning, Wold Architects and Engineers jdunning@woldae.com
Ben Beery, Wold Architects and Engineers bbeery@woldae.com
Matt Rodgers, Wold Architects and Engineers mrodgers@woldae.com
Discussion Topics:
A. Bid Day: Wold explains the bid day process.
1. November 30, 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers.
2. 2:00 p.m. is a hard cut off. Anything submitted later than 2:00 p.m. will not be accepted.
3. Wold reviews the alternates in the bid package with the group.
4. A meeting was scheduled on December 1 at 3:00 p.m. to review the bids with the staff.
5. Wold will present the bids at the work session meeting on December 4 at 6:30 p.m.
B. Construction Process:
1. Pre-Construction Meeting
a. The City requested that Eric Hansen be invited to the pre-construction meeting.
2. Weekly construction meetings will be scheduled with the contractor once they are known.
3. Observations
a. Wold will make scheduled and unscheduled visits to the site outside of the weekly
meetings.
4. Phasing and Staging
a. One of the first things that will happen on site will be the installation of the
construction fence around the site and south half of the parking lot.
MEMORANDUM
Page 2 of 2
C. Next Steps:
1. Furniture
a. Furniture order will likely be placed in December 2018.
b. Core Group will go on some tours to review furniture sometime early February 2018.
c. Core Group will meet over the summer of 2018 on furniture package.
2. Audio Visual
a. Planning meeting will be scheduled in future. Bid likely November 2018.
3. Bid Pack Phase 2
a. Parking lot and landscaping.
b. Demo of existing City Hall might be included in Bid Pack 2.
4. Abatement
a. City has requested that Wold get two (2) different abatement estimates.
5. Weidt Group
a. Weidt Group is an agency hired by Xcel Energy to audit the design of the project. They
make recommendations and calculate potential rebates based on potential energy
consumption. Once the building is complete, Weidt Group will come back and run final
tests and Xcel will write a check to the City based on what rebate programs we
incorporated into the building.
1) Weidt Group looks at things like glazing efficiency, the buildings solar orientation,
boiler and air handler efficiency, R-value or the walls/roof, etc.
2) Weidt Group is currently holding an Energy Cost Savings of $49,970.
D. Other Items:
1. American Engineering and Testing was used to test soil borings early in the projects
development. The City is comfortable with keeping American Engineering and Testing as
the testing agency for the project.
a. Wold explains there are benefits to using the same agency who completed the early soil
borings on the project.
2. Brick salvage – City to determine if they want to salvage any brick from the pool.
E. CD Document Review:
1. Wold teaches the group how to understand the drawings and specification books.
2. Needs to be a conduit pathway in CD GARAGE for future charging of electric cars.
3. Tim and the captains have decided that they do not want any side glass next to their office
doors. Above the door is acceptable.
4. It was verified that there are two (2) hose bibs on the north side of the building for staff to
use. One (1) near grid F and one (1) near grid N.
5. Conference room signage will need to be roughed in.
6. High-speed door to lower level garage will require openers.
7. Location of card readers into the Sally Port and the secure parking lot are being reviewed
cc: Kathi Hemken, City of New Hope, Mayor
Kellie Schlegel, Stantec
Mary Biron, Wold
MF/CI_NewHope/172007/min/11.14.17 Revised
1
From:McDonald Kirk
Sent:Thursday, November 30, 2017 12:46 PM
To:Walker-Crawford David
Subject:FW: Connect Blue Line Now! Coalition Meeting prep
Attachments:LRT Invitation.docx; Connect Blue Line Now Charter.docx
From: Jay Stroebel [mailto:Jay.Stroebel@BrooklynPark.Org]
Sent: Monday, November 27, 2017 8:40 PM
Subject: Connect Blue Line Now! Coalition Meeting prep
All,
Below is a draft agenda for tomorrow afternoon’s meeting. I’ve also attached a DRAFT charter for our group and the
DRAFT invitation for federal delegation members (this was previously sent last week). We have a full agenda. Looking
forward to the discussion tomorrow.
Jay
Draft Agenda For tomorrow
1.Recap of visit to DC
2.Update on recent news
a.SWLRT delay
b.Status of rail negotiations
c.Federal budget timeline (best guess)
3.Elected leader meeting strategy
a.Federal
i.Review draft letter
ii.Discuss ideas for meetings
b.State
i.Discuss next steps
4.Review draft coalition charter
5.Communication campaign
a.Next communications staff meeting – Dec 5
b.HC‐led corridor‐wide communications strategy (FTA‐funded)
6.Action items identified
November 16, 2017
Representative Erik Paulsen
Third Congressional District
127 Cannon HOB
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Representative Paulsen:
It’s time to Connect Blue Line Now! Will you climb aboard the Northwest Blue Line to
opportunity?a
We’re the leaders of Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Crystal, New Hope, Golden Valley,
Robbinsdale, and Osseo and we’re ready for our residents (your constituents) to have the
opportunity to hop on board a Blue Line light rail train to jobs, school or wherever else they
want to go.
For years, all of us involved in the proposed Blue Line Extension light rail transit project have
been waiting patiently for our turn to get the green light in Washington for transportation
funding. We’re all set to go now but we have come to a junction. This project is going to come
to a screeching halt unless we get federal representatives like you to help us engineer the
politics.
Did you know that unlike the other proposed light rail lines, we have local support up and down
the line and all the communities involved have their plans ready for the 11 stops? It’s going to
be some amazing development!
We’d love it if you would come take a tour with representatives from all the cities and
see for yourself what light rail will offer the communities involved. We know you’ll be
back in town for the holidays and we could offer you an express tour at a time that is
convenient for you.
The Blue Line Extension project will put people on the fast track to a brighter future. The
development of this line will aid in economic growth, connection to jobs and access and equity
to the community.
In case you’re wondering, all our communities have banded together to create the Connect
Blue Line Now! Coalition. We’re running on all four cylinders. We’re like the Little Engine That
Could, but we’re doing it together because “we think we can.” And you know what? We “know”
we can, once we get the “all clear” from folks like you!
Feel free to contact Jen Jordan at jennifer.jordan@brooklynpark.org or call 763-493-8137 to
set up a time that best fits your schedule.
We look forward to hearing from you or your staff!
Sincerely… your Connect Blue Line Now! Coalition friends,
_______________________________ _____________________________
Jeffrey Lunde, Mayor of Brooklyn Park Shep Harris, Mayor of Golden Valley
Connect Blue Line Now! Coalition
(DRAFT)
November 28, 2017
Purpose
The Connect Blue Line Now! Coalition is a group of city leaders from
Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Crystal, New Hope, Golden Valley,
Robbinsdale and Osseo who are united in making sure the Blue Line Light
Rail (BLRT) Extension project becomes a reality for the Northwest
metropolitan area and the region.
We believe the BLRT extension will:
Promote private investment in the northwest region to strengthen and
stabilize the local economy
Improve access and mobility within the region, providing critical
connects to jobs, housing, and education and entertainment
opportunities
Improve health equity outcomes and quality of life for communities
served by the train, which includes neighborhoods with racially
concentrated areas of poverty
Goals
To make sure the decision-makers in Hennepin County, Washington
D.C. and the State of Minnesota understand how the Blue Line
Extension will benefit the metro area
To ensure that federal dollars will be granted to fund the project
through lobbying practices
To energize supporters around the project and show community
excitement for the future Blue Line Extension
To give local decision-makers, community organizations, and
residents common language to use while talking about the BLRT
project and its benefits to the communities in the Northwest Metro
Anticipated Actions
The Coalition intends to take actions to help make the Blue Line
Extension a reality, including, but not limited to:
Coordinated conversations with decision-makers at the federal and
state levels
Preparation and use of a coordinated communication campaign and
supportive digital and print materials
o Dedicated webpage
o Printed materials
o Feature Stories
o Photographs
Method of Operation
The Coalition is made up of representatives from the leadership of
every community along the extension as well as Brooklyn Center,
New Hope and Osseo
All members share the responsibility to inform, collaborate, and consult
on behalf of their respective cities.
Administrative Procedures/ Commitment
The Coalition will meet as needed and as the schedule dictates. City
staff will also meet regularly to contribute resources towards the
communications campaign.
Membership
The Coalition includes the members listed below. By signing next to
his/her name, each member commits to active participation in the
Coalition.
Member Organization Signature
Mayor Jeff Lunde Brooklyn Park
Jay Stroebel Brooklyn Park
Staff
Kim Berggren Brooklyn Park
Staff
Mayor Shep Harris Golden Valley
CM Andy Snope Golden Valley
Marc Nevinski Golden Valley
Staff
Tim Cruikshank Golden Valley
Staff
Riley Grams Osseo Staff
Mayor Tim Willson Brooklyn Center
Curt Boganey Brooklyn Center
Staff
Mayor Regan Murphy Robbinsdale
Marcia Glick Robbinsdale Staff
Anne Norris Crystal Staff
CM Julie Deshler Crystal
Kathi Hemken New Hope Mayor
Kirk McDonald New Hope Staff
TBD Minneapolis
SPOTLIGHT
NOVEMBER · DECEMBER 2017
“I have learned so much at CCX Create. CCX Create has become
my second home and second family.”
Sue Ellen Zagrabelny wins second Board term
2017-2018 equipment update
We’re busy wrapping up 2017 equipment in-
stalls and looking forward to a few new items
in 2018. Our FCP X Edit Suite 2 and three stu-
dio camera teleprompters are up and running,
and our last purchase for the year—a new
Allen & Heath digital audio board (QU-24) for
our studios—is complete. This purchase is the
finishing touch to our studio/control room up-
grades begun in 2016.
The audio board is currently set up in the
computer room so that you can check it out
Sue Ellen Zagrabelny begins her second two-year term on the NWCT/CCX
Media Board of Directors this February. She ran unopposed for the seat in
our November 6-19 election.
Sue Ellen has been a member of CCX Create since 2012. She was elected
to the Board in 2016 and serves on the Policy and Activities Committee.
Sue Ellen is an active member of CCX Create, producing and hosting Book
Beat, and crewing on a variety of volunteer productions. Congratulations,
Sue Ellen! BNC
and staff can learn
and program it.
Volunteer Tim Zbikowski
will be giving us a hand in this upgrade—we
are VERY grateful for his help!
In 2018, we will be purchasing two portable
HDMI monitors, additional HDMI cables, new
headsets for the Roland portable studio, two
floor audio monitors for our studios and a 512
LED Flolight for checkout. No schedule is set
for these purchases yet. BNC
2017 VOLUNTEER GALA PHOTO BOOTH SNAPSHOTS
From the desk of the Executive Director
DAY ON THE HILL
The Alliance for Community
Media held a one day
event in Washington,
D.C., on November 8.
Representatives from
community media centers
around the country met with
Senate and House members
to stress the importance
of community media and
why now, more than ever,
it is important to preserve
and strengthen community
media.
I was extremely fortunate to
meet directly with Senator
2017
Investment
Report,
2018
Budget
Approval,
Legal Updates, and
Service Recognition of
Commission and Board
Members.
We recognized Kirk
McDonald for 5 years on the
NWCT Board of Directors
and 10 years on the Cable
Commission, Andy Hoffe for
10 years on the Commission,
Al Madsen for 20 years
on both the Board and
Commission, Helen LaFave
for 30 years on the Board,
and Dr. Duane Orn for 35
years on the Board. I want to
congratulate and thank all
these members for their ded-
icated service.
We also recognized CCX
Create employee, Tamisha
Touray, for her 30 years of
service to NWCT, and all her
great work and dedication
working with our community
producers. MIKE JOHNSON
Amy Klobuchar as well as
3rd District Congressman
Erik Paulsen. Many commu-
nity media representatives
were only able to meet with
Senate or House staff so that
is why it was extra special
to talk directly with one of
our Senators and one of our
Representatives in Congress.
The discussions I had with
them were very productive
and they were both very
aware of who we are and
what we do.
NOVEMBER 9 GALA
I enjoyed meeting with many
of you at the annual gala on
November 9. It was a fun and
rewarding evening, and once
again, I want to thank all of
you for your participation in
community programming.
11-16 BOARD MEETING
The Northwest Suburbs
Cable Communications
Commission and the
Northwest Community
Television Board of Directors
met November 16. The fol-
lowing items were included
on the agenda:
2017 VOLUNTEER GALA PHOTO BOOTH SNAPSHOTS
Free Speech/Community Media Day
Lobby remodel
update
Volunteer Gala November 9
We had a great time celebrating you and your hard work on
November 9 at the 2017 CCX Create Volunteer Gala. If you
weren’t able to attend, all the videos played during the pro-
gram are on our YouTube channel. TT
The third week of October was one to celebrate! October 16-
22 was National Free Speech Week and Friday, October 20, was
Community Media Day. The highlight of the week was the pro-
duction of a promo, written by Tamisha Touray and voiced by
CCX Create volunteers. It debuted at the 2017 Volunteer Gala.
Haven’t seen it? Check it out!
It’s playing on our channels,
available for viewing on our
YouTube channel, and acces-
sible in Access Tools for use in
your productions.
We held a drawing for some
CCX swag on Community Media
Day. The winner was Augustus
Cole, Sr. Congrats! BNC
ALL STAR AWARD WINNERS: (L to R) Richard Klatte, NW City Politics
(producer Juanita Hoffe), Sharon Kephart, Mary Lahaie, Charlie
Brose, Tim Zbikowski, Jimmy Morris, Donald Jackson (awarded post-
humously, Jackson family accepting on his behalf).
We’re getting closer to re-
modeling starting in the
Create public and staff areas.
In Phase 1 (slated to start
around November 27), the
breakroom and back hall-
way will be painted. Phase
2 all the edit and computer
rooms (except for Edit 5) will
be painted and carpeted.
Phase 3 the lobby and staff
office areas will be done. At
some point, Studio B will be
painted, Edit 5 painted and
carpeted, and the back hall-
way carpeted. The render-
ing of the floor plan above
shows how we’re making the
front reception area more
prominent and creating more
storage for staff. Please be
flexible as the dust starts to
fly . . . the finished product
will be worth it! TT
2017 VOLUNTEER GALA PHOTO BOOTH SNAPSHOTS
CCX CREATE
A Service of Northwest Community Television
6900 Winnetka Avenue North
Brooklyn Park MN 55428
ccxmedia.org /ccxcreateLINKS/ccxcreate.org @ccxcreate ccxcreate
Studio notes
NEW WEBSITE LAUNCH MID-JANUARY
If you attended the Volunteer Gala on
November 9, you heard it straight from the
mouth of Assistant Executive Director Dave
Kiser—the new CCX Media website will be
ready mid-January. The new site will be a
one-stop-shop for all four CCX Media sub-
brands, News, Sports, Cities, and Create.
HELLO, NEW MEMBERS!
The following area residents completed
classes in September and October: Jihal
Abdushukur, Boni Ahmed, Hussein Ahmed,
Andrew Altman, Heidi Bellerue, Vatango
Bility, Wreh Doe, Julie Eickhoff, Leyth
Elmi, Sam Harbieh, Ruby Karason, Tela
Kelly, Alex Molina, Clarke Sanders, Tony
Sundheim, Terrica Tubman, Jebbeh Ware,
Adam Western and Melese Woyessa.
Welcome to CCX Create!
STUDIO CLOSINGS
Thursday, November 23, through Sunday,
November 26 (Thanksgiving)
Friday, December 15, 8:30am-2pm (staff
brainstorming)
Saturday, December 23, through Monday,
December 25 (Christmas)
Saturday, December 30, through Monday,
January 1 (New Year’s)
November 21, 2017
Tax Reform Part II
The previous edition of this Commentary, published on November 8, included an
extensive discussion of the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,” the tax reform legislation proposed
in the U.S. House, and the impact of that legislation on municipal bonds.
A lot has changed in two weeks. The House passed its tax reform bill late last Thursday.
The Senate has introduced its version of tax reform legislation and is intending to take
action on it as quickly as possible after the Thanksgiving break. Congressional leaders
are hoping to get a reconciled version of a tax bill through both bodies and on to the
President for his approval before the end of the year.
The House bill includes two provisions that would have an immediate and direct impact
on the municipal bond market, both of which were discussed in our previous
Commentary.
Termination of Private Activity Bonds (PABs)
PABs are tax-exempt bonds that are not considered “governmental bonds,” but which
finance activities of, or loans to, private parties with indirect benefits to the State or
locality that issues the bonds. PABs are frequently used to finance construction of and
improvements to non-profit and other qualified hospitals, nonprofit educational facilities,
airports, docks, and certain types of residential facilities. While Ehlers’ clients do not
issue a large volume of PABs, these bonds make up a sizable portion of the tax-exempt
municipal bond market nationally.
The House bill would eliminate the tax-exempt status of PABs issued after 2017. If
enacted, this could substantially reduce the volume of tax-exempt bonds issued. The
current version of the Senate bill does not include a similar provision.
The immediate impact of the House proposal on PABs would be an increase in the cost of
financing the types of projects typically financed by PABs.
Repeal of Tax-Exempt Advance Refundings
An advance refunding issue is a new bond issue that is used to “refund” or prepay an
existing issue, which is issued more than 90 days prior to the “call date” (the first
optional redemption date) of the existing bonds. When a state or local government issues
a tax-exempt advance refunding issue, it has two sets of tax-exempt bonds outstanding –
the original bonds and the new refunding bonds – from the time of the closing date on
the refunding bonds, to the call date of the original bonds. The Federal Government
views this as a source of lost income tax revenue, since both bond issues for a single
project are tax-exempt. Federal regulations have gradually evolved to puts limits and
procedural restrictions on advance refundings. For example, since 1986, federal
regulations have allowed only one tax-exempt advance refunding of any original tax-
exempt issue.
The House bill would eliminate the authority for tax-exempt advance refundings after
2017. The current version of the Senate bill includes a similar provision.
The immediate effect of this provision would be to limit the flexibility that state and local
bond issuers have in refunding existing debt to achieve savings, restructure payments, or
both. Advance refundings can be very beneficial in allowing issuers to refund their debt
at a time when market conditions are favorable, rather than taking the risk of waiting until
the call date. Advance refundings could still be possible, but the new bonds would not be
tax-exempt, resulting in higher interest rates and reduced savings. As with the
elimination of PABs, this provision would also diminish the total amount of tax-exempt
debt in the marketplace.
There are many other ways in which tax reform could affect issuers of municipal bonds,
and we will mention three of those ways here:
• Both bills would eliminate or reduce the deduction of state and local taxes (often
called the SALT deduction) for federal income taxes. This could cause an
increase in federal taxes, especially for those who reside in states or localities
with relatively high tax rates. Some have speculated that this will put a damper
on state and local government spending.
• The elimination of either tax-exempt PABs, tax-exempt refundings, or both,
could greatly reduce the volume of tax-exempt municipal bonds (munis) issued.
This reduction in the supply of new bonds could put downward pressure on
yields for munis.
• On the other hand, both bills would reduce marginal tax rates for corporations
and possibly for some individuals. For investors, this would reduce the benefit of
the tax exemption of interest on munis, and would probably result in an increase
in interest rates on munis.
While the House has passed its tax reform bill, there are still multiple steps before any
reform legislation becomes law. First the Senate must pass its own bill, then the
conference committee process must be used for both bodies to agree on a single version
of a bill, and then the President must sign the legislation. The first of these three steps is
not guaranteed. It seems unlikely that any Democratic senators will vote for a
Republican tax reform package. And with only a 52-48 majority, the Republicans will
need at least 50 votes (plus a tie-breaking vote from the Vice President) to pass any
legislation. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) has already announced that he is opposed to the
current version of the bill, and several other Republican senators have expressed concerns
(CNN, November 17). The Senate bill now includes a provision that would eliminate the
“individual mandate” of the Affordable Care Act, and that provision has provoked
concerns from many corners. And even if the Senate can pass a reform bill, there are
fundamental differences between the House and Senate bills that would need to be ironed
out and approved by both bodies, not the least of which is the Senate version delays
implementation of the corporate side of tax reform until 2019.
The bottom line is that either of the proposed bills would result in sweeping changes in
the U.S. economy, including changes in the muni market. Whether Congress can pass
such a sweeping bill, as well as the details of the bill, are still up in the air.
Muni Yields Stay Low, Yield Curve Flattens
In general, muni yields have changed relatively little over the past month, as shown in the
table below. For example, the weekly Bond Buyer 20 Bond Index (which measures the
average yield on a portfolio of munis maturing in 20 years with an average rating of
AA/Aa2) was at 3.53% on October 20, rose to 3.67% by November 3, but was back down
to 3.52% by November 17. This index recorded its lowest level of the past 12 months on
November 10, at 3.49%. So, by this measure, yields are near the lowest levels of the past
year.
But the yields by maturity in the table below show that the yield curve has flattened over
the past month (i.e., the gap in yields between long-term bonds and short-term bonds has
decreased). The yield on a 5-year, AAA-rated tax-exempt bond (as reported by
Bloomberg) increased by 18 basis points (0.18%) from October 20 to November 17,
while the comparable 10-year yield increased by only 6 basis points and the 20- and 30-
year yields actually declined. So, if you are considering a longer-term bond issue (e.g.,
with payments extending 20 years or longer), the average yield may be lower now than a
month ago.
Demand for munis remains strong. The Bond Buyer (November 17, 2017) reports that
muni bond mutual funds experienced net inflows of $418 million in the week of
November 13, and have experienced net inflows in four of the past five weeks.
Meanwhile, the supply of new bonds has been relatively steady, but may be on the uptick
as issuers rush to issue PABs and advance refunding issues before any tax reform
legislation takes effect. In most years, the volume of new bonds in the Thanksgiving
week is low due to the holiday. The Bond Buyer (November 17, 2017) reports an
estimated volume of $4.18 billion for this week, which is well below the weekly average
for the year, but relatively high for a holiday week. But almost half of that volume is due
to one issue – a $2 billion+ advance refunding sale by the New York Metropolitan
Transit Authority.
October 20, 2017 November 3, 2017 November 17, 2017
Change since
10/20
Change since
11/3
AAA Yields*
5 Years 1.39%1.47%1.57%0.18%0.10%
10 Years 1.97%2.01%2.03%0.06%0.02%
20 Years 2.62%2.66%2.61%-0.01%-0.05%
30 Years 2.81%2.84%2.77%-0.04%-0.07%
Bond Buyer 20 Bond Index**3.53%3.67%3.52%-0.01%-0.15%
Source:
* Bloomberg Valuation
** The Bond Buyer. Average yield on a portfolio of municipal bonds
maturing in 20 years, with an average rating of AA/Aa2.
November 3, 2017 to November 17, 2017
Trends in Municipal Bond Yields
Investment Trends – Ehlers Investment Partners
On November 12, Philadelphia Fed President Patrick Harker seemed to waver a bit in his
support for another interest-rate hike in December. In a speech in Tokyo, Harker said that
he has "lightly penciled in" a December move, backing away a bit from the phrase
"penciled in" that he had used in an interview with CNBC in October. In his remarks in
Tokyo, Harker called continued low inflation, in the face of the steep decline in the
unemployment rate, a "conundrum" for the central bank.
“Inflation has been too low for too long and the U.S. central bank should alter its
communications with the markets to convince investors the central bank is willing to let it
run hotter than the 2% target,” said Charles Evans, the president of the Chicago Fed, in a
speech in London on November 15. Evans suggested the Fed must alter its statement to
make clear that its inflation target of 2% is not a ceiling. "Our communications should be
much clearer about our willingness to deliver on a symmetric inflation outcome,
acknowledging a greater chance of inflation at 2.5% in the future than what has been
communicated in the past," Evans said. Many economists and Fed officials think the low
inflation seen this year is due to transitory factors. But Evans said, "it gets harder and
harder for me to feel comfortable" with the transitory explanation "with each low
monthly reading." So even as many market participants believe there is a nearly 100%
chance the FOMC will raise the fed funds rate 0.25% at its December meeting, some of
the actual decision-makers aren't so sure.
Regardless of where interest rates may be headed, Ehlers Investment Partners continues
to assist communities in establishing investment practices and objectives in order to earn
competitive yields on idle cash. Reach out to an advisor at Ehlers Investment Partners to
discuss how we can assist you in constructing a portfolio to maximize your investment
returns.
1 Year Ago 1 Month Ago Today
1 Yr Certificate of Deposit 0.8500%1.4500%1.5500%
3 Yr Certificate of Deposit 1.5000%2.0000%2.0000%
5 Yr US Agency Note 1.8500%2.1000%2.2300%
Money Market Funds 0.40%-.65%0.80%-1.10%0.80%-1.10%
Source :Bloomberg, WSJ
November 21, 2017
Trends in Investment Returns
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: PLEASE READ
The information contained herein reflects, as of the date hereof, the view of Ehlers & Associates, Inc. (or its applicable affiliate
providing this publication) (“Ehlers”) and sources believed by Ehlers to be reliable. No representation or warranty is made concerning
the accuracy of any data compiled herein. In addition, there can be no guarantee that any projection, forecast or opinion in these
materials will be realized. Past performance is neither indicative of, nor a guarantee of, future results. The views expressed herein
may change at any time subsequent to the date of publication hereof. These materials are provided for informational purposes only,
and under no circumstances may any information contained herein be construed as “advice” within the meaning of Section 15B of the
Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, or otherwise relied upon by you in determining a course of action in connection with any
current or prospective undertakings relative to any municipal financial product or issuance of municipal securities. Ehlers does not
provide tax, legal or accounting advice. You should, in considering these materials, discuss your financial circumstances and needs
with professionals in those areas before making any decisions. Any information contained herein may not be construed as any sales or
marketing materials in respect of, or an offer or solicitation of municipal advisory service provided by Ehlers, or any affiliate or agent
thereof. References to specific issuances of municipal securities or municipal financial products are presented solely in the context of
industry analysis and are not to be considered recommendations by Ehlers.