2/28/14
Shorewood's Council heard a presentation on protecting bees at the 2/24 council meeting. The presentation may be viewed at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=4bfd10b0-f077-1031-a551-f3fb1162b875 (see the end of the agenda list). The City has just released its March newsletter and has included some information about protecting bees in it.
The presenters accurately pointed out the importance of bees to our food supply and that there are issues with declining bee populations including, "colony collapse disorder" in which whole hives just die off.
The presentation encouraged residents and the City to plant bee-friendly plants and to not use certain chemicals. Proper planting can provide improved bee habitat. However, caution is warranted when it comes to wholesale discontinuance of currently approved chemicals.
Experts disagree on what may be the causes of colony collapse disorder. One only has to do a web search and read the scientific articles to learn this (be careful when reading articles from some environmental groups as many only tell the part of the story that supports the group's position). There is research underway, but results so far are not complete and conclusive. In fact, some countries in which bees are widely needed for crop pollination and in which some of the questioned chemicals are widely used report no problems with colony collapse disorder.
Be smart about using pesticides, herbicides and fungicides. Use sparingly and only per label directions. Talk to your lawn service. Do you know what they're spraying on your lawn and why? It's quite possible that you're paying for unneeded chemical treatments and ones that may be harmful to more than just bees.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Friday, February 28, 2014
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Renovation of N. Eureka Rd Sacrificed For Trails
2/12/14
Tucked away in the capital improvement budget Shorewood's Council just approved is reassignment of the funds earmarked to renovate N. Eureka Rd. to the trail fund for use this year to complete the Smithtown east and Galpin Lake trails.
It appears that after six years with the Eureka project in the 20-year road plan, staff felt that the renovation was not really practical, making the funds conveniently available to fund the 2014 trail construction shortfall.
If you live on N. Eureka Rd or travel on it, you might want to send your favorite council member a note stating your thoughts.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Tucked away in the capital improvement budget Shorewood's Council just approved is reassignment of the funds earmarked to renovate N. Eureka Rd. to the trail fund for use this year to complete the Smithtown east and Galpin Lake trails.
It appears that after six years with the Eureka project in the 20-year road plan, staff felt that the renovation was not really practical, making the funds conveniently available to fund the 2014 trail construction shortfall.
If you live on N. Eureka Rd or travel on it, you might want to send your favorite council member a note stating your thoughts.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Monday, February 10, 2014
Did You Know? - An Election Is Coming
2/10/14
OK. You did know about the election in November. But, did you realize that two council seats and the mayor job are up for grabs? Zerby may run for mayor, again. Hotvet and Siakel have to decide whether to run, again.
Maybe you have had strong feelings about issues in Shorewood, but felt you couldn't really do anything about them. Maybe you have a friend or neighbor who you think would serve the City well. It's time to start thinking about running for office.
Election filing for mayor and council is in August. So, you have time to ponder. Don't let the incumbents run unopposed.
Some issues for the future to consider:
- Money and taxes. Currently, the plan is to raise property taxes at least 2% per year plus, additional increases in storm sewer and sanitary sewer rates every year.
- South Shore Center. Yes, this won't get resolved this election year. Nobody wants this as an election issue.
- Sharing services (read this as moving towards a merger with Excelsior). Does Shorewood want to commit to adopting Excelsior and its problems? Do you really think of Excelsior as your "Downtown" and want to be responsible for it?
- Building trails. There is no money for trail construction after this year. Costs will be in the $ millions ($5 million?) to complete the trail plan build out.
- Expanding city water. This subject will not go away and the $25 to $30 million cost won't either.
- The involvement of local government in your life.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
OK. You did know about the election in November. But, did you realize that two council seats and the mayor job are up for grabs? Zerby may run for mayor, again. Hotvet and Siakel have to decide whether to run, again.
Maybe you have had strong feelings about issues in Shorewood, but felt you couldn't really do anything about them. Maybe you have a friend or neighbor who you think would serve the City well. It's time to start thinking about running for office.
Election filing for mayor and council is in August. So, you have time to ponder. Don't let the incumbents run unopposed.
Some issues for the future to consider:
- Money and taxes. Currently, the plan is to raise property taxes at least 2% per year plus, additional increases in storm sewer and sanitary sewer rates every year.
- South Shore Center. Yes, this won't get resolved this election year. Nobody wants this as an election issue.
- Sharing services (read this as moving towards a merger with Excelsior). Does Shorewood want to commit to adopting Excelsior and its problems? Do you really think of Excelsior as your "Downtown" and want to be responsible for it?
- Building trails. There is no money for trail construction after this year. Costs will be in the $ millions ($5 million?) to complete the trail plan build out.
- Expanding city water. This subject will not go away and the $25 to $30 million cost won't either.
- The involvement of local government in your life.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Friday, February 7, 2014
Shorewood's Council Retreats
2/7/14
On Saturday, the 8th, Council and staff will meet at the Public Safety building for an all-day "retreat." The objective seems to be to allow some detailed discussion of topics brought forward by staff and council members. This meeting is open to the public and starts at 8:30 A.M.
Some items on the agenda are:
- The future of the South Shore Center
- Public Works staffing level
- Trails
- Partnering For Services
- Organized trash collection
The Insider hopes some of you, the readers, will attend since it's expected this meeting will not be recorded for TV and the web.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
On Saturday, the 8th, Council and staff will meet at the Public Safety building for an all-day "retreat." The objective seems to be to allow some detailed discussion of topics brought forward by staff and council members. This meeting is open to the public and starts at 8:30 A.M.
Some items on the agenda are:
- The future of the South Shore Center
- Public Works staffing level
- Trails
- Partnering For Services
- Organized trash collection
The Insider hopes some of you, the readers, will attend since it's expected this meeting will not be recorded for TV and the web.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Saturday, January 18, 2014
The Blog Returns
1/18/14
It's been awhile since the last post, but it doesn't mean nothing is happening inside Shorewood.
Council has managed to get itself into a fight with residents of the Summit Rd. The neighbors are opposing a Planned Unit Development proposing to place four new homes along Summit Rd, claiming the substandard street width and a host of other supposed local problems make the PUD unsuitable for their street. Many of those opposed are Chanhassen residents living on Hummingbird which is the Chanhassen side of Summit Rd.
Anyway, Council voted to deny the PUD request late last year (as recommended by the Planning Commission) with Zerby, Woodruff and Hotvet in support of denial. At Council's December meeting, the matter was on the agenda again. This time to formally pass a resolution of denial. When it came to a vote, Hotvet changed her mind and the PUD was approved 3 to 2 with Zerbty and Woodruff dissenting. Why did Hotvet change her mind? We'll probably never know, but one can ponder on the fact that her friend Siakel voted in favor twice.
Meanwhile, the neighbors have organized and hired an attorney. Looks like rough discussions ahead for the Council.
The League of Women Voters held its "Lively Issues" session this week. The Mayors of Deephaven, Excelsior, Greenwood, Shorewood, Tonka Bay and Woodland were invited to answer questions posed by the League. Of particular interest was a question about interest in merging cities. Reportedly, Zerby indicated interest in merging with Excelsior. Excelsior's Mayor said his council wasn't really on board with the idea. Tonka Bay, Greenwood and Deepaven Mayors indicated no interest in their cities. so, once again, Zerby is flogging this dying horse, urging it to enter a race few (none?) want to be involved in. It seems his getting "A Southlake Community" on the signs welcoming those traveling on streets entering Shorewood is not welcoming enough to make his vision an actuality. The Insider wonders if Shorewood residents reading this blog really want Zerby spending time on this.
There are openings on the Parks and Planning Commissions as well as on the LMCC and LMCD. Interest of residents is underwhelming with perhaps only one candidate indicating interest. If readers have any interest in moving Shorewood forward and how city government works, contact City Hall soon.
Happy reading!
The Insider
It's been awhile since the last post, but it doesn't mean nothing is happening inside Shorewood.
Council has managed to get itself into a fight with residents of the Summit Rd. The neighbors are opposing a Planned Unit Development proposing to place four new homes along Summit Rd, claiming the substandard street width and a host of other supposed local problems make the PUD unsuitable for their street. Many of those opposed are Chanhassen residents living on Hummingbird which is the Chanhassen side of Summit Rd.
Anyway, Council voted to deny the PUD request late last year (as recommended by the Planning Commission) with Zerby, Woodruff and Hotvet in support of denial. At Council's December meeting, the matter was on the agenda again. This time to formally pass a resolution of denial. When it came to a vote, Hotvet changed her mind and the PUD was approved 3 to 2 with Zerbty and Woodruff dissenting. Why did Hotvet change her mind? We'll probably never know, but one can ponder on the fact that her friend Siakel voted in favor twice.
Meanwhile, the neighbors have organized and hired an attorney. Looks like rough discussions ahead for the Council.
The League of Women Voters held its "Lively Issues" session this week. The Mayors of Deephaven, Excelsior, Greenwood, Shorewood, Tonka Bay and Woodland were invited to answer questions posed by the League. Of particular interest was a question about interest in merging cities. Reportedly, Zerby indicated interest in merging with Excelsior. Excelsior's Mayor said his council wasn't really on board with the idea. Tonka Bay, Greenwood and Deepaven Mayors indicated no interest in their cities. so, once again, Zerby is flogging this dying horse, urging it to enter a race few (none?) want to be involved in. It seems his getting "A Southlake Community" on the signs welcoming those traveling on streets entering Shorewood is not welcoming enough to make his vision an actuality. The Insider wonders if Shorewood residents reading this blog really want Zerby spending time on this.
There are openings on the Parks and Planning Commissions as well as on the LMCC and LMCD. Interest of residents is underwhelming with perhaps only one candidate indicating interest. If readers have any interest in moving Shorewood forward and how city government works, contact City Hall soon.
Happy reading!
The Insider
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Mayor Zerby Heading To Washington
12/29/13
One reader asked about Mayor Zerby's upcoming trip to Washington, D.C. and the Mayors Innovation Project Meeting. Council approved the trip at the 12/9 meeting for a cost of about $1500.
Readers can see the agenda for this boondoggle at: http://weblink.ci.shorewood.mn.us/weblink8/0/doc/167344/Page1.aspx and pages 91/92. The only agenda item that appears to relate to needs of a city like Shorewood is the one about working with allies outside your city. Zerby is still trying to merge Shorewood with Excelsior, not very successfully. Of course, maybe Zerby wants to attend to lend support to St Paul Mayor Coleman who is a panelist talking about how every child can get a great education. Maybe Zerby plans to merge Shorewood with the Minnetonka School Board?
To the reader who asked about this trip: How do you suppose Hotvet will praise Zerby's report on his return?
Of note is that Zerby's travel priorities didn't include attending this year's League of Minnesota Cities meeting even though it would have required only travel to St Paul. One suspects that this meeting would have had more value for Shorewood at far less cost.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
One reader asked about Mayor Zerby's upcoming trip to Washington, D.C. and the Mayors Innovation Project Meeting. Council approved the trip at the 12/9 meeting for a cost of about $1500.
Readers can see the agenda for this boondoggle at: http://weblink.ci.shorewood.mn.us/weblink8/0/doc/167344/Page1.aspx and pages 91/92. The only agenda item that appears to relate to needs of a city like Shorewood is the one about working with allies outside your city. Zerby is still trying to merge Shorewood with Excelsior, not very successfully. Of course, maybe Zerby wants to attend to lend support to St Paul Mayor Coleman who is a panelist talking about how every child can get a great education. Maybe Zerby plans to merge Shorewood with the Minnetonka School Board?
To the reader who asked about this trip: How do you suppose Hotvet will praise Zerby's report on his return?
Of note is that Zerby's travel priorities didn't include attending this year's League of Minnesota Cities meeting even though it would have required only travel to St Paul. One suspects that this meeting would have had more value for Shorewood at far less cost.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Volunteer For Commissions?
12/12/13
Shorewood has several appointed commissions and boards that do valuable work and provide guidance to the Council and City staff. Slots are available on the Parks, Planning commissions as well as seats on the Lake Minnetonka Communications Commission (cable TV and community communications) and the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (manages the surface use of Lake Minnetonka for 14 member cities) boards.
Residents who volunteer can make a real impact on the City by influencing City policy and in some cases participate in making ordinances. Participation is a chance to learn how the City and the region actually works as well as make a real difference in operations and policy.
So having said this, why does the City have a tough time finding applicants and why has this gotten tougher in the past three or so years? The Insider would like readers to comment. Of course, if readers want to apply, they can call City Hall at 952-960-7900 or send email to: cityhall@ci.shorewood.mn.us.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Shorewood has several appointed commissions and boards that do valuable work and provide guidance to the Council and City staff. Slots are available on the Parks, Planning commissions as well as seats on the Lake Minnetonka Communications Commission (cable TV and community communications) and the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (manages the surface use of Lake Minnetonka for 14 member cities) boards.
Residents who volunteer can make a real impact on the City by influencing City policy and in some cases participate in making ordinances. Participation is a chance to learn how the City and the region actually works as well as make a real difference in operations and policy.
So having said this, why does the City have a tough time finding applicants and why has this gotten tougher in the past three or so years? The Insider would like readers to comment. Of course, if readers want to apply, they can call City Hall at 952-960-7900 or send email to: cityhall@ci.shorewood.mn.us.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Tax Increase Of 2% Approved
12/5/13
Shorewood's Council approved the 2014 budget with a 2% tax increase Monday night. The approval was 4 - 0 with council member Siakel absent and followed the annual Truth-In-Taxation meeting. Readers can watch the meeting at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=9f25675d-ae8f-1031-8121-35eaf3043912
So, if the South Shore Center is to continue operations, Council intends to fund it from excess City reserves, not additional taxes.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Shorewood's Council approved the 2014 budget with a 2% tax increase Monday night. The approval was 4 - 0 with council member Siakel absent and followed the annual Truth-In-Taxation meeting. Readers can watch the meeting at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=9f25675d-ae8f-1031-8121-35eaf3043912
So, if the South Shore Center is to continue operations, Council intends to fund it from excess City reserves, not additional taxes.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Tax Increase For South Shore Center Dropped
11/30/13
On the 25th, Council directed staff to remove the 1% tax increase in the 2014 budget that was to fund full operation of the South Shore Center. Readers may view the discussion at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=59e092df-a9a8-1031-8121-35eaf3043912 Look at the last item on the agenda list for the work session video.
The Insider is amazed that council member Siakel started the discussion, expressing her discomfort with raising Shorewood taxes to support the Center when the other cities which own the center haven't committed to financially support it. Ultimately, all the members echoed Siakel. Even Mayor Zerby whose wife is on the South Shore Senior Partners board voiced his agreement.
So, Monday night (the 2nd) the Truth In Taxation meeting at 700 PM at City Hall will feature a budget with $48K less in tax levy and a matching reduction in spending.
The Insider would be remiss if it wasn't mentioned that Siakel and her fellow council members did reach consensus that the City has plenty of excess reserves if its finally decided to operate the Center in 2014. The committee studying future operations is supposed to have a report by the end of December. So, it's possible the owner cities will agree to funding and forward movement.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
On the 25th, Council directed staff to remove the 1% tax increase in the 2014 budget that was to fund full operation of the South Shore Center. Readers may view the discussion at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=59e092df-a9a8-1031-8121-35eaf3043912 Look at the last item on the agenda list for the work session video.
The Insider is amazed that council member Siakel started the discussion, expressing her discomfort with raising Shorewood taxes to support the Center when the other cities which own the center haven't committed to financially support it. Ultimately, all the members echoed Siakel. Even Mayor Zerby whose wife is on the South Shore Senior Partners board voiced his agreement.
So, Monday night (the 2nd) the Truth In Taxation meeting at 700 PM at City Hall will feature a budget with $48K less in tax levy and a matching reduction in spending.
The Insider would be remiss if it wasn't mentioned that Siakel and her fellow council members did reach consensus that the City has plenty of excess reserves if its finally decided to operate the Center in 2014. The committee studying future operations is supposed to have a report by the end of December. So, it's possible the owner cities will agree to funding and forward movement.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Monday, November 25, 2013
Last Chance To Speak Out On Taxes
11/25/13
Shorewood's Council is holding a work session tonight at 600 PM to put the finishing touches on the 2014 budget. Looking at the materials, nothing's changed since August.
Taxes are going up 3% with one third of that allocated to a yet to be defined new operating plan for the South Shore Center. Spending is also going up. While not in the materials to be discussed tonight, completion of the Excelsior Rd trail to nowhere and a new trail on Galpin Lake Rd are in the spending plans. As reported earlier, the Galpin Lake trail will be built with money borrowed from the sewer fund since there is no money left in the trail fund.
Residents have a chance to weigh in on the budget on Monday December 2nd at 700 PM when the City holds its state-mandated truth in taxation meeting. If you have something to say, it's the last chance.
See: http://weblink.ci.shorewood.mn.us/weblink8/0/doc/167111/Page1.aspx
to read the budget presentation for tonight and a preview of the presentation for next Monday.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Shorewood's Council is holding a work session tonight at 600 PM to put the finishing touches on the 2014 budget. Looking at the materials, nothing's changed since August.
Taxes are going up 3% with one third of that allocated to a yet to be defined new operating plan for the South Shore Center. Spending is also going up. While not in the materials to be discussed tonight, completion of the Excelsior Rd trail to nowhere and a new trail on Galpin Lake Rd are in the spending plans. As reported earlier, the Galpin Lake trail will be built with money borrowed from the sewer fund since there is no money left in the trail fund.
Residents have a chance to weigh in on the budget on Monday December 2nd at 700 PM when the City holds its state-mandated truth in taxation meeting. If you have something to say, it's the last chance.
See: http://weblink.ci.shorewood.mn.us/weblink8/0/doc/167111/Page1.aspx
to read the budget presentation for tonight and a preview of the presentation for next Monday.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Utility Rates And Trail Funding
10/31/13
On the 28th, Council heard a report from a consultant on recommendations for changes to the fees for sanitary and storm sewer service in Shorewood. In summary, both fees would be increased to assure funding for future projects already in City plans. One one of these projects is to build trails. Also recommended is that the storm sewer fund to borrow money from the sanitary sewer fund, paying it back with interest over 20 years. The cause of the borrowing is storm sewer work caused by building trails.
Of particular note is that the trails to be funded are: Galpin Lake Rd., Smithtown Rd. East and the completion of the trail to nowhere on Excelsior Blvd. So, there is no funding the remainder of the trails that are in the City's Trail Plan.
Council made no decisions except to continue the discussion of fee changes at its next meeting. One thing seems sure and that is that fees will go up.
View the meeting (last item on the agenda list) at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=674eac22-9324-1031-84e6-4d4a8ee9e3b7
Happy Reading!
The Insider
On the 28th, Council heard a report from a consultant on recommendations for changes to the fees for sanitary and storm sewer service in Shorewood. In summary, both fees would be increased to assure funding for future projects already in City plans. One one of these projects is to build trails. Also recommended is that the storm sewer fund to borrow money from the sanitary sewer fund, paying it back with interest over 20 years. The cause of the borrowing is storm sewer work caused by building trails.
Of particular note is that the trails to be funded are: Galpin Lake Rd., Smithtown Rd. East and the completion of the trail to nowhere on Excelsior Blvd. So, there is no funding the remainder of the trails that are in the City's Trail Plan.
Council made no decisions except to continue the discussion of fee changes at its next meeting. One thing seems sure and that is that fees will go up.
View the meeting (last item on the agenda list) at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=674eac22-9324-1031-84e6-4d4a8ee9e3b7
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Monday, October 21, 2013
Trail Funding - Council Meeting Direction
10/21/13
Last Monday night's council work session on budgets didn't provide much clarity as to how to fund trails going forward. See: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=a1a37dbc-882d-1031-84e6-4d4a8ee9e3b7 and the last item on the agenda (work session video) to watch the work session and the discussion.
It appears that the funding need will be tied together with a sanitary and storm sewer rate study council has authorized. The study results are supposed to be presented during a work session on 10/28.
What does seem probable is that significant money will be pulled from the sanitary sewer fund reserves. Pulling reserves from the drinking water fund looks unlikely as this seemed to be felt unfair since water customers represent less than 50% of Shorewood homes. Sewers, on the other hand, are paid for by all property owners.
Some comments were made about raising sewer rates to, in part, fund future trails. One comment was that the rate increase might only be a few dollars per month. With Shorewood having about 2700 households, a $5 per quarter sewer rate increase would raise about $54,000 per year. At that rate, it would take more than ten years to fund, for example, the Galpin Lake Rd. trail segment. Who's going to be on the Council in ten years to see this through?
The discussion next Monday night should be fascinating.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Last Monday night's council work session on budgets didn't provide much clarity as to how to fund trails going forward. See: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=a1a37dbc-882d-1031-84e6-4d4a8ee9e3b7 and the last item on the agenda (work session video) to watch the work session and the discussion.
It appears that the funding need will be tied together with a sanitary and storm sewer rate study council has authorized. The study results are supposed to be presented during a work session on 10/28.
What does seem probable is that significant money will be pulled from the sanitary sewer fund reserves. Pulling reserves from the drinking water fund looks unlikely as this seemed to be felt unfair since water customers represent less than 50% of Shorewood homes. Sewers, on the other hand, are paid for by all property owners.
Some comments were made about raising sewer rates to, in part, fund future trails. One comment was that the rate increase might only be a few dollars per month. With Shorewood having about 2700 households, a $5 per quarter sewer rate increase would raise about $54,000 per year. At that rate, it would take more than ten years to fund, for example, the Galpin Lake Rd. trail segment. Who's going to be on the Council in ten years to see this through?
The discussion next Monday night should be fascinating.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Monday, October 14, 2013
Trail Costs - The Ugly Truth
10/14/13
So what is the real story when it comes to what implementing the "Trail Plan?" What will it really cost? The meeting packet for tonight's council work session at 600 PM provides some reality. See page 5 at: http://weblink.ci.shorewood.mn.us/weblink8/0/doc/166513/Page1.aspx.
Summarizing:
- Completing this year's projects (Smithtown, Cty Rd 19 and Excelsior): $1.7 million ($56,000 more than all the money available for all trail projects)
- Completing Mill St, Galpin Lk, and remainder of Smithtown: $2.5 million (increasing the funding shortfall to over $2.6 million)
- Completing the rest of what is in the Trail Plan: over $5.6 million (total funding shortfall of more than $8.2 million)
To put some perspective to the new cost estimates, the City spends about $5 million per year, using about $4.8 million of property tax money. So, $8.2 million of new funding is nearly two years of all the property tax revenue. More to the point, what percentage of tax increase do Shorewood taxpayers want to assume to pay for $8.2 million of unfunded trails?
The council meeting tonight should be quite interesting.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
So what is the real story when it comes to what implementing the "Trail Plan?" What will it really cost? The meeting packet for tonight's council work session at 600 PM provides some reality. See page 5 at: http://weblink.ci.shorewood.mn.us/weblink8/0/doc/166513/Page1.aspx.
Summarizing:
- Completing this year's projects (Smithtown, Cty Rd 19 and Excelsior): $1.7 million ($56,000 more than all the money available for all trail projects)
- Completing Mill St, Galpin Lk, and remainder of Smithtown: $2.5 million (increasing the funding shortfall to over $2.6 million)
- Completing the rest of what is in the Trail Plan: over $5.6 million (total funding shortfall of more than $8.2 million)
To put some perspective to the new cost estimates, the City spends about $5 million per year, using about $4.8 million of property tax money. So, $8.2 million of new funding is nearly two years of all the property tax revenue. More to the point, what percentage of tax increase do Shorewood taxpayers want to assume to pay for $8.2 million of unfunded trails?
The council meeting tonight should be quite interesting.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Trail Update
9/25/13
Trails were on the Shorewood Council's agenda on the 23rd.
It was reported that sod was down on the Cty 19 segment and the final item is to decide if any trees will be planted on the Xcel site (probably not). The Smithtown Rd. trail grading is started and putting down the actual trail surface is not far off. Most work and a usable trail is supposed to be done by the end of October. Council did approve about $25,000 of extra spending on this segment due to unexpected difficulties. The Excelsior Blvd. segment is likely not to be completed until 2014. This is the short segment being done along with the Met Council sewer improvement.
Per discussion, staff is supposed to come back to Council with updated costs for the above three segments. Seems Council has no idea how much money has been committed and spent from the approximately $1.6 million that was in the trail fund.
Mill Street and Galpin Lake Rd. segments were discussed. The direction was to hold a public open house to discuss the project details. However, with something like $1.5 million in costs for these two segments, the Council clearly does not know where to get enough money to proceed.
Watch the council meeting at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=a045d4fb-76f9-1031-bf4f-32d5966f69c1 and look at agenda items 8B and 12.A.3.
Blog readers have suggested establishing a trail fund like the road fund. This is possible. The road fund receives about $800,000 of property tax money each year. According to staff reports from the Council's March "retreat", the road fund can support the 20-year road plan with only small annual increases in the tax contribution (it's far from "empty" as one reader suggested).
A trail fund to pay for Mill Street and Galpin Lake Rd trails would need on the order of $1.2 million (assuming $300,000 is available from what's unspent today). $1.2 million could be raised in two years simply by raising property taxes about 12% for two years, 4% for six years and so on. Is this what taxpayers want?
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Trails were on the Shorewood Council's agenda on the 23rd.
It was reported that sod was down on the Cty 19 segment and the final item is to decide if any trees will be planted on the Xcel site (probably not). The Smithtown Rd. trail grading is started and putting down the actual trail surface is not far off. Most work and a usable trail is supposed to be done by the end of October. Council did approve about $25,000 of extra spending on this segment due to unexpected difficulties. The Excelsior Blvd. segment is likely not to be completed until 2014. This is the short segment being done along with the Met Council sewer improvement.
Per discussion, staff is supposed to come back to Council with updated costs for the above three segments. Seems Council has no idea how much money has been committed and spent from the approximately $1.6 million that was in the trail fund.
Mill Street and Galpin Lake Rd. segments were discussed. The direction was to hold a public open house to discuss the project details. However, with something like $1.5 million in costs for these two segments, the Council clearly does not know where to get enough money to proceed.
Watch the council meeting at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=a045d4fb-76f9-1031-bf4f-32d5966f69c1 and look at agenda items 8B and 12.A.3.
Blog readers have suggested establishing a trail fund like the road fund. This is possible. The road fund receives about $800,000 of property tax money each year. According to staff reports from the Council's March "retreat", the road fund can support the 20-year road plan with only small annual increases in the tax contribution (it's far from "empty" as one reader suggested).
A trail fund to pay for Mill Street and Galpin Lake Rd trails would need on the order of $1.2 million (assuming $300,000 is available from what's unspent today). $1.2 million could be raised in two years simply by raising property taxes about 12% for two years, 4% for six years and so on. Is this what taxpayers want?
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Paying For Trails
9/21/13
So, how to pay for a $1+ million shortfall in 2014 trail construction funding?
Well, one reader suggests using the proceeds from selling the city-owned house. Based on comments from City Administrator Bill Joynes, the net proceeds from selling the house might be in the $275,000 range. So, this still leaves on the order of $800,000 unfunded. Also, Joynes and staff have spoken about applying the house money to paying for the Badger Park renovation (need about $500,000 for this and only have about $250,000 in park funds).
One reader asked how the City pays for roads. It's simple. Each year nearly $800,000 of the City's tax money goes into a road fund (about 15% of the total City revenue each year). Based on the 20-year road plan, this is enough to fund the road projects. If sewer and storm water work are done with a road project, these costs from the sewer and storm water utility bill revenues. Of note, the storm water fund is running out of money and a rate study is underway.
Back to trails. So, using tax dollars to fund $1 million of 2014 trail projects would require a 2014 tax increase of about 20%. Since, the most the City can increase 2014 taxes is 3%, not much help here. Another approach would be to raise taxes a little each year and save the money until trails can be paid for. Of course this would mean it would take many years to complete the trails. The City could issue bonds for trails and pay them off over 20 years. $1 million of bonds would cost taxpayers about $90,000 in property taxes each year for 20 years, about a 2% tax increase. Issuing bonds would require the matter be on the ballot in 2014. Would voters approve this? Who knows?
Grants are also possible. However, best case seems that grants would only cover 30% of the trail's costs. So, this doesn't really solve the funding problem.
What will Council do? What do you want them to do?
Happy Reading!
The Insider
So, how to pay for a $1+ million shortfall in 2014 trail construction funding?
Well, one reader suggests using the proceeds from selling the city-owned house. Based on comments from City Administrator Bill Joynes, the net proceeds from selling the house might be in the $275,000 range. So, this still leaves on the order of $800,000 unfunded. Also, Joynes and staff have spoken about applying the house money to paying for the Badger Park renovation (need about $500,000 for this and only have about $250,000 in park funds).
One reader asked how the City pays for roads. It's simple. Each year nearly $800,000 of the City's tax money goes into a road fund (about 15% of the total City revenue each year). Based on the 20-year road plan, this is enough to fund the road projects. If sewer and storm water work are done with a road project, these costs from the sewer and storm water utility bill revenues. Of note, the storm water fund is running out of money and a rate study is underway.
Back to trails. So, using tax dollars to fund $1 million of 2014 trail projects would require a 2014 tax increase of about 20%. Since, the most the City can increase 2014 taxes is 3%, not much help here. Another approach would be to raise taxes a little each year and save the money until trails can be paid for. Of course this would mean it would take many years to complete the trails. The City could issue bonds for trails and pay them off over 20 years. $1 million of bonds would cost taxpayers about $90,000 in property taxes each year for 20 years, about a 2% tax increase. Issuing bonds would require the matter be on the ballot in 2014. Would voters approve this? Who knows?
Grants are also possible. However, best case seems that grants would only cover 30% of the trail's costs. So, this doesn't really solve the funding problem.
What will Council do? What do you want them to do?
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Thursday, September 19, 2013
2014 Trail Projects - Can Shorewood Afford Them?
9/19/13
On the 17th, the Planning Commission toured the proposed Mill Street and Galpin Lake trail locations, then, they reviewed the engineering feasibility studies for these two 2014 projects. See the agenda packet at: http://weblink.ci.shorewood.mn.us/weblink8/0/doc/166204/Page1.aspx for the packet and details of the feasibility studies.
From the packet information, Mill Street trail cost is estimated at over $699,000 and Galpin Lake is over $911,000 for one option and $855,000 for another option. Both trails would be about 3000 feet long.
The Insider wonders how the Council will deal with the costs. Before construction started on the Smithtown and County 19 trail segments this year, Council had about $1.6 million for trails. Smithtown and Cty 19 appear to be costing about $1.3 million plus, Council approved something like $200,000 for the trail segment on Excelsior Rd. Change orders for the Smithtown project are coming. So, one could easily assume that more than $1.4 million is already spent. With less than $200,000 available to spend, how does Council pay for $1.6 to $1.8 million of new trail projects? Or should it?
Happy Reading!
The Insider
On the 17th, the Planning Commission toured the proposed Mill Street and Galpin Lake trail locations, then, they reviewed the engineering feasibility studies for these two 2014 projects. See the agenda packet at: http://weblink.ci.shorewood.mn.us/weblink8/0/doc/166204/Page1.aspx for the packet and details of the feasibility studies.
From the packet information, Mill Street trail cost is estimated at over $699,000 and Galpin Lake is over $911,000 for one option and $855,000 for another option. Both trails would be about 3000 feet long.
The Insider wonders how the Council will deal with the costs. Before construction started on the Smithtown and County 19 trail segments this year, Council had about $1.6 million for trails. Smithtown and Cty 19 appear to be costing about $1.3 million plus, Council approved something like $200,000 for the trail segment on Excelsior Rd. Change orders for the Smithtown project are coming. So, one could easily assume that more than $1.4 million is already spent. With less than $200,000 available to spend, how does Council pay for $1.6 to $1.8 million of new trail projects? Or should it?
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Bonding For Chaska Senior Facility
9/19/13
No action on the bonding previously commented on in this blog was taken during Shorewood's 9/14 council meeting. Seems the parties planning to build the facility and to which the money would be lent by Shorewood received bids to build the project that were way above expectations. So, they have withdrawn their request for money.
It's possible this'll come back.
Happy Reading!
The Inisder
No action on the bonding previously commented on in this blog was taken during Shorewood's 9/14 council meeting. Seems the parties planning to build the facility and to which the money would be lent by Shorewood received bids to build the project that were way above expectations. So, they have withdrawn their request for money.
It's possible this'll come back.
Happy Reading!
The Inisder
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
South Shore Center - Meeting today
9/17/13
Sorry for the late post, but the blog site has had some problems.
The fourth (of three expected) meeting of the owner cities is 4:00 PM today at Shorewood City Hall. It's expected the "final" positions regarding Center support by the owner cities will be presented.
Stay tuned to learn meeting results.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Sorry for the late post, but the blog site has had some problems.
The fourth (of three expected) meeting of the owner cities is 4:00 PM today at Shorewood City Hall. It's expected the "final" positions regarding Center support by the owner cities will be presented.
Stay tuned to learn meeting results.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
South Shore Center - Who's In or Out?
9/3/13
The previous post about the 3% tax increase and the budget for the Center was not too clear.
Tonka Bay and Deephaven appear to have no interest in funding Center operations. Greenwood is still discussing, but seems to be leaning against any funding as well.
The Insider expects little or nothing to be offered by Excelsior. So, Shorewood looks to be going forward on its own (as it has been for the past three plus years).
The SSSP wants to stop paying rent and for Shorewood to hire a full-time manager to run the Center. So, basically, they're bailing on responsibility, but want to keep using the Center, offering their programs and keeping the money they raise. If Shorewood bites on this deal, City staff is saying the operating deficit that has to be supported by tax dollars will go from $60,000 (estimated for 2013) to $140,000 for 2014.
So the question is how much is keeping the center open worth to the taxpayers? Shorewood's Council appears to believe no amount is too much. Do you?
Happy Reading!
The Insider
The previous post about the 3% tax increase and the budget for the Center was not too clear.
Tonka Bay and Deephaven appear to have no interest in funding Center operations. Greenwood is still discussing, but seems to be leaning against any funding as well.
The Insider expects little or nothing to be offered by Excelsior. So, Shorewood looks to be going forward on its own (as it has been for the past three plus years).
The SSSP wants to stop paying rent and for Shorewood to hire a full-time manager to run the Center. So, basically, they're bailing on responsibility, but want to keep using the Center, offering their programs and keeping the money they raise. If Shorewood bites on this deal, City staff is saying the operating deficit that has to be supported by tax dollars will go from $60,000 (estimated for 2013) to $140,000 for 2014.
So the question is how much is keeping the center open worth to the taxpayers? Shorewood's Council appears to believe no amount is too much. Do you?
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Taxes For 2014 - Up 3% (Maybe)
8/31/13
As predicted here, Shorewood's Council approved a 3% preliminary tax increase on 8/26. Readers can view the discussion at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=717594f9-622e-1031-bc96-29b50f2ba9d1 Look at the work session for detail and the actual vote during the regular meeting at agenda item 10C.
Half of the increase is for general expenses and the plan is to use excess reserves to cover the rest of the spending increases. The other half of the 3% seems destined to be used to increase the subsidy for the South Shore Center to something like $140,000 from the $60,000 expected in 2013.
According to the work session, the increase in subsidy would be to hire a full-time person to manage the Center. This meets the wish of the seniors as shown in the SSSP "Vision." The Insider questions how this can be justified. There is still no plan that shows a full-time manager is needed or warranted.
The Commission of the five Center owner cities did meet on the 27th. Seems that a fourth meeting will happen, but that Tonka Bay and Greenwood are both saying they will not participate in funding any operations. Also, it looks like Greenwood is leaning the same direction. It appears that Shorewood may be in it alone going forward.
Of course, things can change and the tax increase could be reduced before the end of the year or a decision made to spend some or all of the money earmarked for the Center on things like parks where funding is critically short. What would you, the readers do?
Happy Reading!
The Insider
As predicted here, Shorewood's Council approved a 3% preliminary tax increase on 8/26. Readers can view the discussion at: http://lmcc.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=717594f9-622e-1031-bc96-29b50f2ba9d1 Look at the work session for detail and the actual vote during the regular meeting at agenda item 10C.
Half of the increase is for general expenses and the plan is to use excess reserves to cover the rest of the spending increases. The other half of the 3% seems destined to be used to increase the subsidy for the South Shore Center to something like $140,000 from the $60,000 expected in 2013.
According to the work session, the increase in subsidy would be to hire a full-time person to manage the Center. This meets the wish of the seniors as shown in the SSSP "Vision." The Insider questions how this can be justified. There is still no plan that shows a full-time manager is needed or warranted.
The Commission of the five Center owner cities did meet on the 27th. Seems that a fourth meeting will happen, but that Tonka Bay and Greenwood are both saying they will not participate in funding any operations. Also, it looks like Greenwood is leaning the same direction. It appears that Shorewood may be in it alone going forward.
Of course, things can change and the tax increase could be reduced before the end of the year or a decision made to spend some or all of the money earmarked for the Center on things like parks where funding is critically short. What would you, the readers do?
Happy Reading!
The Insider
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