022497 CC ES AgPExecutive Session Meting Notice
The Shorewood City Council will meet in
Executive Session on
Monday, February 2=1, 1997
Approximately 8:30 p.m. or
immediately following the
regular portion of the Council meeting
in the City Hall Council Chambers at
5755 Country Club Road, Shorewood, Minnesota
The purpose of the meeting is to discuss litigation matters with the
City Attorney. This meeting is not open to the public.
The Work Session originally scheduled for this time has been
canceled.
James C. Hurm,
City Administrator/Clerk
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FeCKuary 18, 1997 ~ ~~l~U \If ~i
City Admll1istrator Shorewood A 1997 ~
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Jim. I will need the following information before I go in front of council on Monday, F~ I
of this cannot be answered or made available I would appreciate an explanation why and estimated date
when it can be made available. The information should all be easily accessible because the majority of it
is public record and included in the Snowmobile Task Force Implementation Plan which began in
October of 1996.
I. Moneys spent to present for all snowmobile related expenses. including
. Task Force 1995 & 1996 (including survey. mediator, mailings, staff time , etc.)
. Signs
. Snowmobile, including upgrade for police patrol
. Snowmobile accessories (clothing, helmets, boots)
. Training time for both officers and trainers
. Patrol time for officers (how many dedicated hours have been spent specifically patrolling
snowmobiles, including squad car and snowmobile patrols?)
. 911 operator/system time (if applicable)
. Mailings to snowmobilers and residents
2. Communication
. How many mailings were sent? Dates?
. Was it a local mailing or outside the 55331 zip code.
. What information was given to the residents of Shorewood regarding their rights as pedestrians
and licensed drivers?
3. A policy of "zero tolerance" was supposedly implemented at the start of the snowmobiling season.
. Has the city defined its policy as it relates to "zero tolerance?"
. If not, how can the city expect to implement and enforce such a policy?
. How many officers are currently trained and using the city's snowmobile?
. How many miles are on the Shorewood police snowmobile?
. How many citations have been written in the area patrolled by SLPD?
. If possible, how many of those citations were for:
Speeding
Curfew
DUll Alcohol & Narcotics
. How many impounds have there been. and how have they been resolved?
4. I would like a copy of the following letters:
. Mayor Bean's (11/21/96)
. Any letters written to outside communities and/or agencies regarding enforcement actions or
intentions in our city (including Carver County, Water Patrol, Hennepin County Park Rangers,
DNR)
. Rick Young's letter to Shorewood explaining shortage of officers
These things will be very helpful in facilitating the discussion on the 24th. Thank you in advance for your
help.
Sincerely,
Ingrid Schaff
cc: City Council
CITY OF
SHOREWOOD
MAYOR
Tom Dahlberg
COUNCIL
Kristi Stover
Jennifer McCarty.
Jerry O'Neill
. John Garfunkel
5755 COUNTRY CLUB, ROAD. SHOREWOOD, MINNESOTA 55331-8927. (612) 474-3236
-FAX (612) 474-0128 · www.state.netlshorewood . cityhall@shorewood.state.net
February 21, 1997
To:
From:
RE:
James Hurm. Shorewood City Administrator
Wendy Anderson, Secretary
Ingrid Schaff's Memo (2118/97 - Snowmobile Information Requested
1.
Money spent .
· Task Force - $12,700
· Signs - $969
· Snowmobile - $6,970
· Snowmobile accessories - $843
· Training time - Not available
· Patrol time - see Officer Keller Memo dated 1/28/97
· Operator 911 time - Not available
· Mailings to snowmobilers - $ 213.00
2. Communication
· Mailings sent - One mailing on I1n /96 to all Shorewood registered _
snowmobilers (240); and one mailing on 11/15/96 to all other 55331 residents
that are registered snowmobilers
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· Information given - see attached Press Releases
3. Zero Tolerance
· Defmed policy - See attached Memo from Mayor Bean dated 11/21/96.and
Newsletter Insert (November, 1996)
· Officers.trained - One, Jeff Keller (see Chief Young memo 12/27/96)
· Miles on snowmobile- 547miles as of2l21/97
· Citations. - see attached Officer Keller memo dated 1/28/97
· Breakdown of citations - Keller memo 1/28197
· Impounds - Keller memo. 1/28/97
4. Letters
· Enclosed Mayor Bean letter 11/21/96
· Outside communities - Done within Police department verbally
· Enclosed Chief Young's letter dated 12/27/96
A Residential Community on Lake Minnetonka's South Shore
MEMORANDUM
TO:
Chief Young
FROM:
Officer Keller
DATE:
28 January 1997
RE:
Snowmobile Activity Report
In the autumn of last year, Jim Hurm approached me and requested I keep a log
of my activity as it related to snowmobile enforcement This activity log was to be
in addition to my normal daily activity log kept for the department Mr. Hurm
requested that I include such items as trail conditions, weather conditions,
snowmobile traffic levels and .information relating to any contacts I had on the
trail.
Attached please find my activity log for the period ending 12131/96.
There are a few items I would like to point out as they relate to my activity log. As
you know, the police snowmobile wasn't ready until the final days of November.
Once I began using the snowmobile, you'll notice I began including the time spent
on the snowmobile. These times reflect only the time the snowmobile was in
operation. They do not include the time spent changing into and out of my
snowmobile attire, the time spent driving to and from the public works or the time
spent getting the snowmobile out of the public works facility. The facility is
always locked and the power to the automatic garage doors is always disabled
when not in use by the public works employees.
Secondly, the official department records may not be in congruence with my data.
This is because my data includes activity that may have been generated by a
sheriffs deputy or state conservation officer who happened to be working with me
at the time. As you know, it does not matter which law enforcement agency
issues the citation since they are all processed through Hennepin County District
Court.
Lastly, I would like to point out that my data indudes only that which I have
personal knowledge of. It does not reflect any activity witnessed or generated by
any other member of this department, nor does it reflect the activity generated by
the officers of the Department of Natural Resources. whom I know have spent a
considerable amount of time enforcing the regulations on the LRT.
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Snowmobile Activity Report
11/21/96 Thursday: 12:21hrs.
I stopped an individual on Eureka Rd. in front of the entrance to Freeman Park
and issued him a citation for operating his snowmobile before the season began.
He arranged to have his snowmobile trailered to his home.
11/23-24/96 Saturday and Sunday:
Over the week-end, four officers issued thirty-eight citations to snowmobilers for
operating their snowmobiles before the snowmobile season opened. One driver
was also issued a citation for underage consumption of alcoholic beverages. Of
these citations, I issued fourteen.
11/25/96 Monday:
Monitored the LRT trail at various times during my shift The department
snowmobile was not ready to go in-service. No snowmobiles observed.
11/30/96 Saturday: 10:30hrs. to 15:51hrs.
Ran stationary RADAR on the LRT at Eureka Way at various times during the
shift. At one point a group of sleds (5) traveling east were clocked at 49mph. We
were unable to determine who violator was so all the snowmobiles were stopped
and verbally warned of the speed limits. The trail had been plowed by the city
and was not in good snowmobiling condition. Traffic moderate. Weather nice.
Three special deputies assisted.
12/1/96 Sunday: 11 :OOhrs. to 15:46hrs.
No improvement in trail conditions. Weather nice. Two citations were issued for
speeding (35mph and 43mph). Two special deputies assisted. Special deputies
issued a warning for no operator certificate in possession and current registration
not displayed. Two snowmobilers were given verbal warnings for speed and
registration violations. They were escorted home where they produced valid,
current registration for their snowmobiles. Traffic moderate.
12/6/96 Friday: 20:00hrs. to 01 :23hrs.
No improvement in trail conditions-conditions slowly deteriorating. Traffic light.
Conservation Officer Michael Hammer and Deputy Patrick Harding assisted. Five
citations issued for expired registration, one citation for speed (43mph), and three
verbal warnings given for speed. Six juveniles were arrested for curfew
violations. They were driving down the street in a car while in possession of
twenty-seven rolls of toilet paper and approximately twenty-five gallons of water.
Very cold outside. No snowmobile curfew violations observed.
12/7/96 Saturday: 16:00hrs. to 20:15hrs.
No improvement in trail conditions. Traffic light Worked alone. Two written
warnings for speed issued, one written waming given for a registration violation
and a written warning given for change of address on license. Weather cold.
12/8/96 Sunday: 11:15hrs. to 17:00hrs.
Trail conditions poor. Traffic light Deputy David Ringberg and a special deputy
assisted. Weather cold. Three citations issued for expired registration. One L I.
citation issued for fail to display registration. Two written warnings issued for tJ; ~I'f'
speed, one for fail to transfer title, one for registration not in possession, and one
for expired drivers license. . Two snowmobilers verbally warned for speed.
12/18/96 Wednesday: 13:30hrs. to 19:30hrs.
Fresh snowfall. Trail in good condition. Traffic light. Worked alone. One citation
issued for speed (37mph). One written warning issued for inoperative headlight. ( .
Two verbal warnings given for riding where prohibited (in drainage ditch at Co. V'
19/Glen Rd.). Riders new to area father/son. Distributed Shorewood ordinance
literature and trail maps.
12/20/96 Friday: 14:00hrs. to 21:30hrs.
Trail in good condition, recently groomed. Reserve Etshokin assisted for part of 1 \\11'
shift. Deputy Bogenreif and a special deputy assisted for another part of shift.
Very few snowmobiles out. One citation issued for speed (36m ph). Four verbal
warnings given for speed.
12/21/96 Saturday: 14:30hrs. to 21 :20hrs.
Trail in good condition.. Heavy snowmobile traffic. Weather good. Conservation
Officer Mike Hammer assisted for part of shift, alone for nighttirne portion. One
citation issued for registration not displayed. Two citations issued for speed
(36mph/45mph). One citation issued for obstructing use of public lands. Four
written warnings issued for speed, two for no registration in possession, two for
fail to transfer title, and two for fail to display registration. One snowmobile
clocked at 72mph. Operator refused to stop at my signal. I was forced off trail.
Snowmobile got away. .
12/22/96 Sunday: 20:05hrs. to 23:17hrs.
Trail in good condition. Weather nice. Moderate levels of traffic. Deputy Waldon
and Deputy Harding assisted. One citation issued for speed (35mph). Four
citations issued for curfew violations. Two written warnings issued for no safety
certificates and three for registration violations. Three people verbally warned for
speed.
12/23/96 Monday: 12:15hrs. to 19:35hrs.
Trail condition deteriorating-getting very bumpy. Heavy snow, blowing, cold.
Snowmobile traffic very light. Patrolling alone until 17:00hrs., reserve officer
Etshokin assisting after 17:00hrs. No contacts.
12/27/96 Friday: 20:00hrs. to 01:15hrs.
Trail in good condition, recently groomed. Weather. cloudy and cold. Patrolling
alone. Snowmobile traffic very light. One citation issued to a youthful operator
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for speed (39m ph ). Operator warned verbally for no safety certificate and
operating where prohibited. Snowmobile owner issued a citation for expired
registration. Youth was turned over to his father, snowmobile placed out-of-
service. No curfew violations observed.
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12/28/96 Saturday: 20:20hrs. to 01:40hrs.
Trail in good condition. Weather: clear and cold. Sgt Fink assisted from his
squad until 22:27hrs. Deputies Bogenreif, Storms, and Special Deputy King
worked with me after 23:00hrs. Snowmobile traffic very light. One citation was
issued for speed (35mph) and two citations were issued for curfew violations.
One verbal warning was given for failure to stop at a crossing and one operator
was arrested for gross misdemeanor D.U.1. Three snowmobiles were
impounded.
12/31/96 Tuesday: 19:10hrs. to 01:50hrs.
Trail in good condition. Weather: periods of freezing drizzfe, cold. Reserve
officer Etshokin assisting. Snowmobile traffic very light Two snowmobiles
stopped for curfew violations. One operator issued a citation for curfew, the other
operator arrested for felony narcotics possession (cocaine) and resisting arrest
Her curfew violation handled via formal complaint. Two snowmobiles impounded.
One held for forfeiture.
1/4/97 Saturday: 22:10hrs. to 02:25hrs.
Trail in fair condition. Weather. had rained earlier, changed to snow. Heavy
snow, blowing, cold. Worked alone. Zero snowmobile activity-none seen all
evening.
1/18/97 Saturday: 12:55hrs. to 17:30hrs.
Trail in good condition. Weather. Cold (sub-zero temps). Traffic: Light. Two
citations issued for speeding (39mph/45mph) and one citation issued for fail to
display registration. One rider was given a verbal warn for speeding and two
riders were verbally warned about registration violations. One woman was chided
for allowing her dog to run at-large after it charged a cross-country skier who fell
down as a result. No one was injured.
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1/19/97 Sunday: 12:25hrs. to 13:49hrs.
Trail in good condition. Weather: nice. Heavy snowmobile traffic. Conservation
Officer Mike Hammer and I worked the trail from an intersection. Neither of us
were on sleds this day. One citation was issued for speed (36mph). Three
written warnings were issued for registration violations; two for fail to display and
one for expired registration. Two riders were given verbal warnings regarding
their speed.
1/20/97 Monday: 11:25hrs. to 13:30hrs.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Trail in good condition. Weather. low 30's, nice.
Very few snowmobiles out and about. I talked with three snowmobilers who had
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stopped and inquired about the local regulations. I passed out maps and
literature. Two other were given verbal warnings and reminded to keep their
speeds down.
1/22/97 Wednesday: 12:45hrs. to 19:50hrs.
Worked alone. Trail in good condition. Snowing--heavy at times. Saw two
snowmobiles the entire shift. One of those sleds was observed snowmobiling
adjacent to a wet land that had been posted No Snowmobiling (Smithtown
Rd./Cathcart Drv). Snowmobiler drove across private property and into street.
Operator was thirteen years old. He was issued a citation for being under
fourteen years of age and not being accompanied by a parent His father was
summoned to the scene to drive the snowmobile home. Youth was warned to
stay- off private property without first obtaining property owners permission.
1/31/97 Friday: 15:30hrs. to 01 :40hrs.
Worked alone for the first portion of my shift, worked with Officer Hammer (DNR)
and Reserve Officer Etshokin after dark. Trail in good condition, recently
groorned. Weather: clear and cool. Snowmobile traffic on the trail was light. A
total of three snowmobiles were stopped this day. One was stopped and given a
written warning for speed and issued a citation for no safety certificate. The
driver was fourteen years old. He was snowmobiling with his nineteen year old
brother who was issued a written warning for current.registration not in
possession. One curfew violation was observed. The seventeen year old driver
was issued citations for underage drinking and driving, possession of marijuana in
a motor vehicle, and for violating the snowmobile curfew. His snowmobile was
impounded.
2/1/97 Saturday: 14:39hrs. to 01:10hrs.
Worked alone until dark, Sgt. Nieling came on duty at 18:00hrs. Trail in good
condition. Moderate levels of traffic during the day, traffic appeared light after
dark. Weather: cloudy and cool. One driver was stopped and issued a citation
for speed (43mph). He and his riding partner were issued written warnings for
safety certificate not in possession. Three snowmobiles were stopped for
violating the snowmobile curfew, all were issued citations. One of those drivers
was also issued a citation for speed (55mph)-he blew a WARN on the PST.
2iT/97 Friday: 18:10hrs. to 21:00hrs.
Trail in fair condition, weather: cold. Worked stationary RADAR with. special
deputy Tom Sendecky. Very few snowmobiles out No contacts.
2/8/97 Saturday: 13:23hrs. to 15:30hrs. and 16:09hrs. to 17:13hrs.
Ran RADAR and monitored snoWmobile traffic using a decibel meter. No speed
violations observed. I parked in front of 25605 Smithtown Rd.. (Kelsey/Schaff
residence) and operated decibel meter. Obtained decibel readings on thirty-five
snowmobiles. Minimum reading: 65 decibels, median (and mode) reading: 68
decibels, maximum reading: 78 decibels. Legal threshold for all snowmobiles
manufactured after April 1, 1975: 78 decibels. Higher thresholds for
snowmobiles manufactured before that date. Did not determine date of
manufacture on any of the passing snowmobiles.
2/11/97 Tuesday: 17:00hrs. to 23:30hrs.
Trail in good condition. Ught snow falling. Worked alone. Snowmobile traffic:
light. Issued one citation for speed (35mph). Another snowmobile was stopped
for speed (40mph), the driver was ultimately arrested for giving false information
to a pOlice officer. He stated that he lied about his identity because he failed to
transfer ownership of the snowmobile into his name. His snowmobile was
impounded. He was booked and released pending formal charges. No curfew
violations seen.
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2/14/97 Friday: 17:00hrs. to OO:30hrs.
Trail in fair condition. Weather: dear and cold. Worked alone until 21 :30hrs.
Officer Talbot assisted from his squad for the remainder of the shift.. Three
snowmobiles seen all day. One of those sleds was stopped for speeding
(58mph) and the driver was issued a citation. No curfew violations seen.
2/15/97 Saturday: 15:00hrs. to 21 :OOhrs.
Trail in fair condition. Weather: overcast and cold. Worked alone. Few
snowmobiles seen. One citation issued for speed (35mph). That same driver
was issued a written warning for fail to transfer title and incorrect address on
drivers license.
2/16/97 Sunday: 10:40hrs. to 17:25hrs.
Trail in good condition. Weather: mostly sunny, cold. Worked alone. Heavy
snowmobile traffic. Five citations issued for speeding (36mph, 43mph,39mph,
42mph, 47mph). Two written warnings issued for speeding, two for inoperative
headlights, and one for no snowmobile safety certificate. One snowmobiler driver
given a verbal waming for speed.
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Violation Ticket Written Warning Verbal Warning Arr~1
Manner of Operation
1. Speed 23 12 25 1
2. Riding where prohibited 3
Alcohol and Drug
1. Driving under the influence of alcohol 1
2. Underage drinking and driving 1
3. Underage consumption of alcohol 1
4. Narcotics: Fe/ony POssession 1
S. Narcotics: Misdemeanor possession 1
Season and Curfew
1. Snowmobile season violation 39
2. Curfew violation 11 2
Registration
1. Registration: Fail to display 4 11 4
2. Registration: Expired 10 1
3. Registration: Fail to transfer 4 1
Youthful Operators
1. No snowmobile safety certificate 1 3 1
2. Certificate not in possession 3
3. Under 14 to be aCCOmpanied by adult 1
Ucense and Equipment
1. Inoperative headlights 3
2. Change of address on license 2
3. Expired drivers license 1
Other
1. Obstruct use of public lands 1
1. F a/se information to police officer 1
Totals ~ ~ 33 Z
To:
Chief Rick Young
Bob Bean, Mayor
James C. Hunn, City Administrator
November 21, 1996
From:
Date:
Re:
Snowmobile Rule Enforcement
First we would like to thank you for your personal involvement in the Snowmobile Task
Force deliberations. The information gained by both the Task Force members and yourself
resulting from your attending the Task Force meetings is invaluable. We also appreciate
the continued involvement of you and the Department in the enforcement efforts of our
program.
As you know it is important that the rules be rigorously enforced in Shorewood. It is
important the Police Department fully understand that infractions of the Snowmobile rules
cannot be tolerated. Our educational efforts include a mailing to snowmobile owners in the
55331 zip code and a city-wide newsletter mailing refers to "zero" tolerance. It is the police
Departments job to implement this policy.
There are other specific Task Force recommendations which are in various levels of
implementation that need to be communicated to you. They are:
· There will be no "side trail" along the LRT this year.
· Although at this time Freeman park will not have "groomed" trails, there will be areas
marked and parking designated with a portable toilet for non-snowmobile winter
activity. The Department should be aware of this and patrol Freeman Park with this in
mind.
· The ordinance does not address public access. However, to promote safety at Timber
Lane, the Public Works Department will direct snowmobiles to enter and exit the trail at
one location.
· The City has purchased and worked with you to equip a snowmobile for enforcement
purposes. Appropriate clothing has been purchased.
· Enforcement of the ordinance is the responsibility of the entire department. The
Shorewood Officer's schedule will be flexible to cover peak snowmobiling times.
Several officers will have the ability to operate the department snowmobile. Some
snowmobile patrol time may have to be on an overtime basis.
· All Department personnel need to be fully trained on Shorewood laws and "zero
tolerance" expectations. Shorewood Officer Jeff Keller is working with you on this
training program.
--..
Snowmobile Rule Enforcement
November 21, 1996
Page 2 of 2
. Officer Keller will coordinate utilization of enforcement equipment such as radar and
decibel meter and joint enforcement efforts with other agencies and the snow patrol.
. The DNR will train one officer, and eventually two, to be trainers for a snowmobile
safety training class at City Hall.
. The Department will work with the City Engineer and Public Works Department on
markings for property owners with trespass concerns.
. The patroling officers should keep Public Works informed on any damage to signage.
Suggestions for additional signage should go to the City Administrator.
. You are communicating with the Carver County Sheriff's office to coordinate
enforcement of the ban on snowmobiles in Cathcart Park. Our Department will patrol
the area an coordinate enforcement.
. Officer Keller will work with you on a reporting format which will provide good,
uniform information on all enforcement activity to assist with program evaluation.
. The attached resolution clarifies where snowmobiles can be ridden on Shorewood
lakes.
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January 22, 1997
FOR IM1v1EDIA TE RELEASE
CITY OF SHOREWOOD RESTRICTS
SNOWMOBILING WITHIN LAKE SHORELINES
Please be advised the City of Shorewood restricts snowmobiling within 150 feet of the shoreline. In
concordance with the Hennepin County Water Patrol guidelines, snowmobile riders are restricted to a
speed limit of 10 miles per hour when within 150 feet of shoreline on all lakes within the City limits.
This shoreline zone may only be used to enter orexit the lake traveling perpendicular to the shoreline.
January 15, 1997
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CITY OF SHOREWOOD PROHIBITS
SNOWMOBILING IN PARKS AND WETLANDS
The City of Shorewood ordinance code prohibits the use of snowmobiles in parks and wetlands.
This offense is a misdemeanor and if a violation occurs could result in a fine. The South Lake
Minnetonka Public Safety Department is on patrol within the City to encourage compliance with the
regulations that are new this season.
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Press Release
The South Lake Minnetonka Public Safety Department, in conjunction with the Hennepin County
Water Patrol, will be sponsoring a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Snowmobile Safety
Course.
Classroom training for people aged 12 to 18 will be held at Shorewood City Hall from 8:00 a.m. to
4:00 p.m. Saturday, January 11, 1997. Practical training will be from 9:00 a.m. to 1 :00 p.m.
Sunday, January 12, 1997. Topics to be covered include snowmobile safety; rider responsibility &
skills; and review of Minnesota and City of Shorewood snowmobile laws and regulations. Please call
Shorewood City Hall (474-3236) for more information and registration forms.
Sun*Sailor: If you have any questions, please call Wendy @ 474-3236
DatalMisc/SnowmobileClass97
Post-it' Fax Note
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December 30, 1996.
FOR IMNIEDIA TE RELEASE
PROPERTY OWNERS SHOULD REPORT
SNOWMOBILE VIOLATIONS
Snowmobiles are not allowed onto your property without your express permission. Ifa
snowmobile has been going onto your property without permission, either call the South Lake
Minnetonka Public Safety Department at 474-3262, or Shorewood City Hall at 474-3236. A city
representative will come and inspect your property and make recommendations.
. .
, December 11, 1996
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DNR SNOWMOBILE SAFETY CERTIFICATE COURSE
OFFERED IN SHOREWOOD
The South Lake Minnetonka Public Safety Department, in conjunction with the Hennepin
County Water Patrol, will be sponsoring a DNR Snowmobile Safety Course for persons
aged 12 - 18 years of age at Shorewood City Hall, 5755 Country Club Road, on January
11 and 12. New City of Shorewood rules require juveniles aged 14 - 18 to have in their
possession a valid safety certificate issued by the DNR. To register:
. A registration card, with parent authorization, must be completed at City Hall of
Shorewood, between the hours of 8:30 - 5, Monday through Friday.
. A $5.00 fee, in cash or a check payable to the Minnesota DNR, is required.
. Upon receipt of the fee, and the signed registration form, handouts and additional
information will be given out by City Hall staff.
The classroom training will be held at Shorewood City Hall on Saturday, January 11 from
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Practical training will be scheduled Sunday, January 12 between the
hours of 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Some topics covered in the course include:
. The principles of safe snowmobile operation, rider responsibility, and outdoor skills.
. Review of the laws which govern snowmobiles in Minnesota.
. Special review of new regulations enacted by the City of Shorewood for all riders
within Shorewood City Limits.
. Testing fulfillment including fulfillment of classroom and field trip requirements, and
passing a written examination and an actual driving test.
To register contact the City of Shorewood, 474-3236. A $5.00 course fee, as well as
parental release form, will be required to sign up. Once the fees and appropriate signature
forms are received, the student's packet will be issued. Class size is limited, so please act
quickly.
Juveniles between the ages of 14 and 18 are required to have this permit when rid.ing a
snowmobile within the City of Shorewood.
December 5, 1996
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
**CORRECTION**
CITY OF SHOREWOOD ENACTS
TOUGHER SNOWMOBll..E REGULATIONS
The City of Shorewood enacted new, tougher regulations and firm penalty fees for
snowmobile violations within the City, including while on the LRT Trail located within
Shorewood. A police officer is patrolling on a snowmobile to enforce the new code. He will also
be working with snowmobile riders to educate and inform them of safety issues related to
snowmobiling. Violators can expect to pay a fine and incur possible impoundment of the
snowmobile.
New Shorewood regulations include:
. Snowmobiling is allowed in designated areas from December 1 to ~!Iarch 1
lYIARCH 31.
. Snowmobile operation is allowed between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and
10:00 p.m. Sunday - Thursday. Curfew time is extended to 11:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday nights.
. The speed limit within Shorewood is generally 10 m.p.h. when near a
pedestrian or skier on the LRT Trail and on the acceptable area for street riding (street
side of the plow ridge). Otherwise, a maximum 20 m.p.h. speed limit is permissible
on the LRT Trail.
. "Zero Tolerance" regarding violations is in effect and may include impoundment of
the snowmobile as well as a fine, especially for Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
offenses.
PRESS RELEASE
CITY OF SHOREWOOD
PAGE 2
December 5, 1996
. Youth under 18 must have a Snowmobile Safety Certificate with them
when riding on a snowmobile. Youth driving a snowmobile under 14 years of age
must have a Certficate and be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Signs describing the new regulations are posted on the LRT Trail at the major entry points.
Snowmobile riders are advised to be familiar with and understand all the new regulations.
Questions can be directed to South Lake Minnetonka Public Safety, 474-3261, or the City
of Shorewood, 474-3236.
J
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The following letter was recently sent to registered snowmobile owners in
Shorewood and is being reprintedfor general informationfor all residents.
November, 1996
Dear Resident:
The enclosed newsletter summarizing new rules and regulations concerning the operation
of snowmobiles within the City of Shorewood is being sent to residents who are registered
snowmobile owners in Shorewood. We will also provide copies to the local snowmobile
clubs.
The snowmobile ordinance has been modified somewhat for the '96-' 97 season, but more
importantly, a much stricter enforcement of the ordinance is being implemented. Please
note these significant changes in the ordinance:
. Youth under age 14 are not permitted to operate a snowmobile unless
accompanied by a parent or guardian.
. Youth between the ages of 14 and 18 may operate a snowmobile only if
they have in their possession a valid safety certificate issued by the
DNR.
. Lower speed limits
. Reduced hours of operation
. Use on streets is limited to the street side of the plow ridge and only in
the direction of traffic. .
. Snowmobiles are not allowed in Public Parks and Wetlands
. Use on private property is J!Ilh permitted with the express permission of
the property owner
The Shorewood officer of the South Lake Minnetonka Public Safety Department will be
dedicating more time to the specific issue of snowmobile ordinance enforcement along with
a higher sensitivity to this issue by the entire department A snowmobile has been provided
to the department to facilitate this enforcement as well as to provide improved emergency
response to all citizens.
November, 1996
Page 2 of 2
The majority of snowmobiles traveling through Shorewood do so with great respect for
property rights and are sensitive to the environment. However, a small minority jeopardize
this privilege for all. For many residents tolerance of continued abuse of the rules has
worn out. Please help with the enforcement effort by strongly encouraging your friends
and other snowmobilers to obey the rules and respect the rights of others as you travel
down through Shorewood. Future use of snowmobiles in Shorewood depends on it.
Please carefully review the newsletter attached which summarizes many of these rules and
regulations. Pass it along to your fellow snowmobilers. If there are questions regarding
any of the rules, please feel free to call City Hall at 474-3236 or stop by City Hall Monday
through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Have a safe and enjoyable snowmobile season. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Robert Bean,
Mayor
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NEW RULES AND REGULATIONS
FOR SNOWMOBILES IN SHOREWOOD
The City adopted new rules and regulations
this year to provide more effective
enforcement of snowmobile activities on
City streets and trails. These new
regulations were recommended by the
Snowmobile Task Force which had been
established by the City Council to examine
the issue. The following information
highlights what changes will be
implemented in the upcoming 1996-97
season. All residents should review these
changes carefully.
ENFORCEMENT
The South Lake Minnetonka Public Safety
Department (Police Department) will have
an officer on a snowmobile patrolling the
city. Officers will patrol the Light Rail
Transit Trail and all other parts of the city.
Officers will take action on every
violation observed which may
include impounding snowmobiles
depending upon the violation observed.
The police snowmobile will be equipped
with emergency lights, radar, and a radio.
If any questions or problems arise while
you are out on the trail or somewhere else in
the city, either flag the police officer down
or call the Police Department at 474-3261
during regular business hours. If problems
arise after office hours call 911.
PROPERTY OWNERS
Snowmobiles are not allowed onto your
property without. your express
permission. If a snowmobile has been
going onto your property without
permission, you should either call the
Police Department or Shorewood City
Hall. Your property will be inspected
and we will work with you to help solve
the problem. The phone number for the
Police Department is 474-3261, and
Shorewood City Hall is 474-3236.
OVER
ORDINANCE CHANGES
Many new items have been added to the
snowmobile ordinance. The following lists
new rules and regulations:
1. SPEED LIMIT:
· City Streets and Highways: 10 MPH
· Light Rail Transit Trail: 20 MPH, 10
MPH when within 30 feet of a
pedestrian
. Lakeshore Buffer-Zone: 10 MPH when
within 150 feet of shoreline
2. HOURS OF USE:
. 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Sunday
through Thursday
. 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Friday and
Saturday
3. LAKE BUFFER ZONE: There is a
150 foot buffer zone where snowmobiles
are prohibited along the shores of Lake
Minnetonka and lakes within Shorewood.
This zone may be used only when entering
or exiting the lake traveling perpendicular to
the shoreline.
4. SEASON: The snowmobile season has
been designated December 1 to March 31.
Any person found riding outside these dates
will be ticketed and their snowmobile will
be impounded.
S. STREET USE: Snowmobiles must be
driven on the street side of the plow ridge
and avoid obstacles by going into the street,
not onto the boulevard. While traveling on
the street, snowmobiles shall drive in the
direction of traffic.
6. LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT TRAIL
(LRT): Snowmobiles are prohibited from
driving on the shoulder or ditch of the LRT.
Snowmobiles must also come to a complete
stop before entering the LRT.
Snowmobiles shall not pass one another
when within 30 feet of a pedestrian on the
LRT.
7. PARKS AND WETLANDS:
Snowmobiles are prohibited from all city
parks and wetlands.
8. PERMITTED AREAS OF USE: A
person may operate a snowmobile on the
following:
. The LRT Trail
. Public Waters, except within 150
feet of the shoreline as stated above.
. Private property with the express
permission of the property owner.
. On the road for the purpose of direct
travel from the person's home to the
closest destination where
snowmobiling is permitted, by the
shortest possible route.
9. MISC: When crossing streets or
highways: snowmobiles must cross at a
ninety (90) degree angle, the snowmobile
must be brought to a complete stop before
crossing, and the snowmobile must yield to
all oncoming traffic and the crossing must
be made with both front and rear liahts
illuminated. Snowmobilers will be held
accountable for obeying all new rules and
regulations. They will either use them
right or lose them.
The entire ordinance can be reviewed at City
Hall or on the City web site at
www.state.netlshorewood/
**CROSS-COUNTRY SKIERS**
Cross-country skiers should be aware that
Fr~m~ Park will be available for skiing
this wmter, and that part of the parking lot
off Eureka Road will be cleared so you will
be able to drive your car right to the ski
area. Other nearby cross-country ski areas
are:
1. Carver Park
2. University of Minnesota- Landscape
Arboretum in Chanhassen
3. Lake Minnewashta Park.
Winter 1996.97
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YOUTH SNOWMOBILE LAWS
It IS unlawful for any person under
fourteen (14) years of age to operate on
streets, highways, public lands or frozen
water, or make a direct crossing of a street
or highway unless accompanied by. parent
or guardian. A person fourteen (14) years
of age or older, but less than eighteen (18)
years of age, may operate a snowmobile
on streets, highway, public lands or frozen
waters, only if they have in their
immediate possession a valid snowmobile
safety certificate issued by the
Commissioner of Natural Resources.
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SAFETY
Safety is the key concern of this
program. Snowmobilers must be very
aware of the potential conflicts when
encountering pedestrians or other vehicles.
A city wide survey in 1996 identified a real
concern for safety by Shorewood residents.
Snowmobilers will continue to be allowed
to enjoy the freedom of snowmobiling
within Shorewood as long as they continue
to act responsibly. This means caring for
your personal safety, the safety and rights
of others, and protecting the natural
environment.
Snowmobile Safety Training Classes
There are two parts to becoming certified in
snowmobile safety training. The first part
is classroom training with a written
examine. The second part is .hands on
training. The Hennipen County Sheriff
Water Patrol will be offering the separate
classes. The classroom training and the
written exam is scheduled for December 7th
and 8th from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M..
You must register before the course and
there is a $5.50 charge. The hands on
training will be held sometime after the new
year, but as of now has not been scheduled.
The Water Patrol's phone number is: 471-
8528 or call City Hall at 474-3236.
The complete report by the Task Force is
available for review at City Hall. If you
have any questions regarding any of the
above policies, please feel free to call or
stop in City Hall - 474-3236. City Hall is
open Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M.-
5:00 P.M. Have a safe and enjoyable snow
season.
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SOUTH LAKE MINNETONKA PO
612474 4477
P.03
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SOUTH LAKE MlNNETONKA PUBUC S~ETY' DEPARTMENT
810 Excelsior Boulevard.
Excelsior, Minnesota 55331
RICHARD A.. YOUNG
0Iicf at Poice
(612) 474-3261
MEMD.RANDUM
To:
Mayor Robert
Pol..ice Chief
B. Bean~.
Rick younq\
1996
From:
Date:
December 27,
Subject: Request for Info:cnat.ion ConcernJ.nq Snowmobile Law Enforcement
Thank you for your memorandum of today about this subject. Host of the
items you requested have already been provided to City Admtnistrator
James C. Burm in a memorandum from me dated December 18,' 1996. I have
attached a copy of that memorandum. I will not repeat here items which
were answered in that memorandUlll. I am also aware that Mr. & Mrs. Arnst
appeared at the police department last week request.i.ng much of the same
Lnformation. They were given what info~t.ion was read~y available
and, according to the secretary, seemed more than satisfied with the
information.
I will pass along the information relating to the wetland area east of
Brentr.idqe Drive and north of Smithtown Road. Enforcement action will
be taken against any 5nowmobiles found in this public wetland.
I believe I have already answered in the attached memorandUlll the
question by Mrs. Schaff regarding staffing. perhaps she is also
confused about exactly what the C.ity of Shorewood .is funding as "extra
patrol t.ime". As you know, the city is funding an extra patrol officer.
This .15 a . specific:: officer who can only work less than 25% of the hours
in a week. With his time off for vac::ations, traininq, etc., it is
probably closer to 20%.
To my knowledge there has been no written communication between this
agenc::y and either the Hennepin County Sheriff's Patrol or Rangers.
However, there has been considerable verbal commu.n.ication between
Officer Xeller and these aqencies and the DNR. I must point out that it
is my belief that none of these agencies have the leqal. authority to
enforce the Shorewood ordinance. They can only enforce their own laws
or ordi.nances. For that reason, Offi.cer Keller has attempted to work
together with these agencies. Another reason for working together is
the officer safety factor. A single officer working snowmobile
enforcement must often deal with larqe numbers of snowmobiles, late at
night, i.n remote hard to get to locations, when many of the snowmobilers
have been drinking. This represents a very si.gnificant officer safety
issue.
I think the last question about backup officers to Officer Keller was
also addressed in. the attached memorandum to some extent. 'rhis agency
has not trained, purchased equipment for nor scheduled othe:rdepa.rtment
s~ Souzh l.4k4 Jr~ Cammwrida of F.=dslor, ~ ~.Qn4 TonirI Bay
OEC-30-1996 10:36
SOUTH LAKE MINNETONKA PO
612 474 4477 P.04
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officers for snowmobile enforcement. Off.icer Kell.er is the only
"Shorewood" officer. I can not take officers off of regular patrol in
the other cities and place them on Shorewoods' snowmobile. I can do it
on an overtime basis as I mentioned in the memorandum. ':rhe City of
Shorewood will need to purchase the proper snowmobi.le equipment for
these officers. I had earlier posted a notice to see which officers
might be interested and have had three indicate interest. If we are
going to qo this route, I think the Coordinating comm..ittee should
approve such use since it is a single city service. with joint powers
officers. NO:cnall.y I they could charge their hours to Shorewood and
everything should work out fine. However I we are now talJd.nq time and
one-half costs, not regular costs I which could be an issue.
It seems that these particular people are cominq to you ,the City
Administrator and the police depa.rt:l11ent with the same questi.ons.
Perhaps there are even others. As I stated in the attached memorandum,
there has to be a point at which the city can reasonably say that the
enforcement efforts are adequate to the numbers of violations.
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DEC-30-19S6 1121:36
SOUTH LAKE M I NNETONKA PD
612 474 4477 P.05
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; SOUTH LAKE :MINNETONKA PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT
810 Excelsior Boulevard
Excelsior, Minnesota 55331
RICHARD A. YOUNG
Qir:l at Pea
TO:
James C. Hu:cn
Chief Rick Youn~
December 18, 19;6 0
Snowmobiles
From. :
Date:
Subject:
(612) 47+3261
MEIIORAliDUII
I have checked the schedule for Officer Keller as you requested. For
this fow: week period (12/9 - 1/5), he is scheduled to work every' Friday
and Saturday, and two of four Sundays.
Friday 12/13 Worked 0800-1600
Saturday 12/14 Worked 1000-1900
Friday 12/20 Scheduled 1400-2200
Saturday 12/21 Scheduled 1400-2200
Sunday 12/22 Hours not yet scheduled
Friday 12/27 Hours not yet scheduled
Saturday 12/28 Hours not yet scheduled
Friday 01/03 Hours not yet scheduled
Saturday 01/04 Hours not yet sched11l.ed
Sunday 01/05 Hours not yet sc:hedu.led
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You also asked about how many officers we had on duty this past weekend.
The following is the work schedule:
"
Friday 12/13
Saturday 12/14
sunday 12/15
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
0600-1330
0800-1800
1600-0200
2000-0600
0600-1600
1600-0200
2000-0600
0600-1600
1600-0200
1800-0400
2000-0600
In reviewing the logs, I find they \TeJ:'e extremely busy once the stor.m
hit. Many reports of cars in the ditch, accidents, etc., along w.i:t.h the
normal everyday cal.ls . There appears to have been 6 snowmobi.le
"complaintsW as listed below:
Stwing SDJItJa Lak# MinMuHlk.tI ~ of ~ GtanwoCld. ~ tmd TanJca iJ4'j
DEC-30-1996 10:37
SOUTH LAKE MINNETONKA PD
612 474 4477 P.06
2/14 2300 Ar:rived 2302 Lafayette St. Bxcels~orsnowmobi.1es on s'C:::ee'C ~est8ci no report
2/15 1225 OU'C of Position LRT lie Teal Circle Shorewooa unknown snowmobile complaLnt
2/15 1345 AJ:rived 1346 La'r Greenwood snowmobiles on La'!", no contact
2/15 1415 Honitorec:l trai.l. .in Greenwood for S2 minutes - only one track in. anow, none seen
.2/15 1851 Arrived 1854 LR'r lie Strawberry Shorswacd speedinq/1eavinq trail, none seen
.2/l5 1901 Arrived 1917 Lakaview Ave Tanka. Bay speec:iin.g, unal:>l.e to loc:ate
As you can see, only two of the complaints that I found were in
Shorewood. One of the other .complaints" was anoffic:er monitoring the
tz'ail .in Greenwood.
.AS you know, we are currently short two officers and do not expect any
relief in that situation for three months, at which t~e we wLl1 still
be short one officer. This accounts for the lower than usual numbers of
officers on duty at some times. The Shorewood officer onl.y works a
nor:mal 40 hour week, or less than 25' of the hours in a week. He is
already working every Friday and Saturday. It is virtually impossible
to schedule him when there is going to be snow. As everyone knows, even
the weather forecasters do not do a very good job of forecasting when it
is going to snow. It seems a bit unreasonable to expect him to not make
any personal plans so he can si.t around home ready to go to work if it
snows. Given that we apparently had only two Shorewood complaints this
past large snowstorm, it seems to make it even more unreasonable.
Snowmobile enforcement, like any other kind of law enforC:eIDent, is
predicated on the fact that most people are law abiding citizens.
Therefore, on.ly spot checks and the poten-eial. for being caught are
usually enough to control the situation. Com9lete 100% comoliance with
the law is unachievable in snowmobile or any other kind of law
enforcement. I think it is absolutely unrea~istXc for some people to
. expect such results. A realistic goal is to have the numbers of such
incidents be very small. I think the city and police department may
have even' gone "overboard" i.n the amount of resources we have thrown. at
this particular issue. In doing so, however, I think we have made
extremely good and successful efforts and have met that realistic goal.
I do not think the complaints will stop. They do not for speeding cars,
noisy parties or any other type of complaint. Even if snowmobiles were
completely banned, the complaints would not step. There are always
going to be violators. As with speeding cars, the viola-eor usually is
a repeat offender. Sooner or later, with any level of enforcement at
all, they are bound to be caught.
If the city wishes to spend more money, I can always schedule officers
to be available for snowmobile patrol. However, due to the union
contract, that means we have to pay them 1/2 time stand-by pay, plus
time and one-half if they come in. Very, very expensive, but it can be
done. However, it will not make the violations go away. There has to
be a point where the city feels the numbers of actual violations become
comparatively insignificant. At such point, the level of enfo~ement is
sufficient.
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