Loading...
79-04 - Fox Chase PUD pt 14e 1 "q 1 STATE OF MINNESOTA DISTRICT COURT 2 COUNTY OF CARVER FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT 31 ------------•-------------------------------------------------- 4 Derrick Land Company, a Minnesota corporation, 5 Plaintiff, 6 VS. 7 City of Chanhassen, a s Municipal corporation; and Thomas Hamilton, Clark Horn, 9 Patricia Swenson, Dale Geving, John Neveaux, and Carol 10 Watson, 11 Defendants. File No. 18149 12---------_-_---_---------------------------------_...------__--- 13 DEPOSITION OF PATRICIA SWENSON, taken 14 pursuant to Notice and Agreement of Counsel, under the Rules 15 of Civil Procedure for the District Courts of Minnesota, com.- 16 mencing at about the hour of 3:00 o'clock p.m., June 2, 1983, 17 at the Chanhassen City Hall, Chanhassen, Minnescta, before is ^ � 4 N +- Public in and for the County of I 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Jeffrey U. ,e _e...r, a o„ary Scott and State of Minnesota. APPEARANCES: CHRISTOPHER J. DIETZEN, Esq., of LARKIN, HOFFMAN, DALY AND LINDGREN, 1500 Northwestern Financi Center, 7900 Xerxes Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minne•• so:,a 55431, appeared on behalf of the Plaintiff; ROGER N. KNUTSON, Esq., of GRANNIS, HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Rcgi.stered Pro esswizal RrportE rs 747 Midland Bank Building 4.� •..� .,.. Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 338.3530� 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 2 GRANNIS, CAMPBELL AND FARRELL, 403 Northwestern Bank Building, South St. Paul, Minnesota 55075, appeared on behalf of the Defendants; ALSO APPEARING: Kurt Laughinghouse. PATRICIA SWENSON, witness herein, having been first duly sworn, was examined and testified as follows: EXAMINATION: BY MR. DIETZEN: Q A Q C Q h Q A Would you state your full name and address please? Yes. Patricia Swenson, 9015 Lake Riley Boulevard, Chaska, Minnesota. And, what is your business or occupation? I'm basically a housewife. I have a part-time job. And, you are a member of the City Council of the City of Chanhassen? That. is correct. 01cay. . And, what -- over what period of time have yap, been on the City Council? S was appointed -- it would have been, I guess --- let aye think now. There had been a year served. What would the date be? This was three years before the last election. What was that; January 1980. When was the last election? - ' HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Pt-gistered I'rofrssiuna] Reporters „ 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis. Minnesota 65401 Phone 1612) 338 ti530 vt¢4ti 4 . r 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 3 i MR. LAUGHINGHOUSE: Last November. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q November of 182? I A Yes, November of 182. So, it would have been three years before that. Q Okay. Who appointed you? i I A The City Council. Q Who did you replace? A A man by the name of Richard Mathews. I Q All right. So, you've been on the, City Council since sometime in 1979 to the present date; does that sound j A Q A Q A Q A Q It seems to me it was the first of 1980. 1 would say in that period; so, it would be -- i Have you previously been on the Council, or Planning Commission? I Planning Commission. j i Okay, Whe:l were you on the Planning Commission? The fall. of 178, i Okay. You are one of the named Defendants in this i lawsuit; correct? So I've been told. All right, Going back in history, when did you first become aware of Derrick's proposal to develop the property on Lotus Lake that's the subject matter of HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered 1',ofessional RcPor(irs E 747 Midland Sank Building 'q��11` � •� Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401 v°'d��� Phone (6121 338 3530 19 1 2 A 3 Q 4 5 A 6 Q 7 8 9 A 10 Q 11 12 A 13 14 15 Q 16 17 A 18 Q 19 20 21 22 A 23 Q 24 25 A 4 this lawsuit? I have no idea of the exact date. Okay. Can you tell us how it first came to your attention? It would've had to be through the Planning Commission. All right. And, can you tell me generally your in- volvement with this project when you were on the Planning Commission? I don't understand your question. i Okay. Were you did you vote on -the Iproposal when it wass before the Planning Commission? I would imagine that I would have had to make a recommendation to the City Council, but I have no idea what the program was at the time. � Okay, Were you on the City Council in April. of 1980 when this matter was reviewed by the City Council? 1� i yes. i All right. And, do you recall the meeting in April. of 1980 where; the City Council granted preliminary approval for the 52-lot subdivision, and P.R.D. plan subject to certain conditions? I remember the -- I don't remember the details. You generally recall that coming before the City Counril? Yes. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES kt'hrsMred Profcssional Reporter.: ,.,.,. 747 Midland Bank Building ,[, ve -Minneapo6c, Minnesota 55401 St` ., .P Phone (612) 338-3530 rezc"� v a 1 Q 2 A 3 Q 4 A 5 6' 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 rE 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A A Q 5 And that action taken? What was the date? That was April 7th of 1980. Well, I'm assuming that there are minutes to document that? Yes, there are minutes for that specific date. Do you recall having any --- Well, strike that. Let me go back. There is also a City Council meeting September t 21, 1980 where the City Council granted final develop- ment plan approval subject to staff recommendations; do you repall that action in that meeting? The date doesn't ring a bell. Okay. Do you recall subsequent Council meetings in lg$z and 1982 where this project was discussed? � I would imagine that there were meetings. I don't remember any of them offhand. I mean, what the dates were. Q Okay. Do you have a recollection as to the discussion. that occurred at those meetings and voting on the project over that period of time? A I remember activity on the project. Q All right. Why don't you tell me what you recall? A Oh; my dear, I would be very happy to have you jar my recollection with any documents that you have, but this has covered such a vast period of time, I don't ' HERBERT E. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES � I lirhiste'red Profe'ssiutial PePoriers 747 Midland bank Buiidiny Minn( p e 55491 Phone (612) 33.8 3530 W 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 feel that any recollection that I have would be accurate. Q Okay. I'll show you the City Council minutes of April 7th of 1980 with respect to the project, and, askif you would review those minutes. A Okay. (Witness reviewing document.) Q Does that refresh your memory as to what occurred on that date, April of 1980? A No. I can only remember the things to this effect. That's three years ago. Q Okay. Well, if you can't remember, that's an appropri- ate answer. - A I understand. I'm trying to be cooperative, and I'm Just really --- Q Okay. Why don't you turn: to the City Council minutes of July 21, 1980. A (Witness reading minutes.) Yes. I don't remember the -- i�1,. KNUTSON: Mrs. Swenson, there is no question before you. THE WITNESS: I beg your pardon. BY M.R. DIETZEN: Q Does that refresh your memory as to what occurred at that time? A Again, only in the -- in having read the minutes here. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Rigislered 1'rofessionaI Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building ` ► !; Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401�.;� Y Phone (612) 338-353+) � 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ai 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 7 Q Okay. So, the minutes would constitute your only recollection of what occurred on that date; is that right? A Yes. Q Okay. Let's go to the next Council meeting of April 6th, 1981, and let's go to a different book here. Here we go. A What was the date, sir? Q The date was April 6th. A (Witness reading rr1nutes.) Q Have you reviewed those minutes? A Yes. Q Do you have any recollection, and independent recol- lection as to what occurred on that date before the City Council? A here again, just what we have, that the request for a changes was -- or changes were made, and that it was --- that we couldn't. But, this would be standard whether it was this or anything else Q Do these minutes constitute your only recollection as to what occurred on that date? A Yes. A, So I'm clear, your only recollection is iwhat's con- tained in these minutes? A 'What's right. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES � ��� li_'k:.iic're(1 I'ru/i'ssiral I{r�„r�! rs � 747 Midland Bunk Building � p •• •• ��i!�neaot�lis. Minnesct3 5'i4p1 Phone �61 2) 338-3530 ` � 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A Q A Q A Q A 101 Q r3 o., A Q A Q A Q 8 � You don't recall anything else occurring? I No, I don't. I All right. Let's go to May 4th, 1981. (Witness reading minutes.) Okay. Have you had an opportunity to review those minutes? Yes, I have. Do you have any -- do those minutes refresh your recollection as to what occurred on that.date? To my recollection, I would say that they reflect pretty much what happened. Do you recall anything else occurring that's not con- tained in the minutes? No, I do not. Do you have any other memory as to what happened on that date? No. !� So, your only memory is what's set forth in these � rr-nutes? That is correct. ,I Okay. Let's go to June 1 of 181? Yes. (Witness reading minutes.) Have you had an opportunity to review those minutes? Yes. And, do you have any other recollection of what �1lkj HERBERT L PETERSOIN & ASSOCIATES Rt.f;r.stered Pr,)jossionai Reporters t 747 Midland Bank cL111E4ding Minneapolis, Mir.nesa;e 55401 Phone (612) 338 ?530 [ ' 1 2 A 3 Q 4 A 5 Q 6 A 7 Q 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 10 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A 9 occurred other than what is set forth in those minutes? No, I do not. Okay. Let's go to July 20th, 1981. (Witness reading minutes.) Have you reviewed those minutes? Yes, I have. And, do they reflect your recollection of ghat occurred on that date? They seem to. I'm not really clear on this one. Okay. Could you explain what you mean'by that? Only that I do not recall the conversation specifically as it is. I don't have any change to it, I just didn't recall it until I had read it. Okay. Do you have any other recollection of what occurred on that date? Uh-uh, So, this would represent your total recollection of what occurred': Uh-huh. Is that right? Yes. Okay. Let's go to the next one, which is August 13th, I think it's on the last page of those minutes. It's just a real short item. Oh, here it is. (Witness reading minutes.) SON & s HERBERT L. PETERASSOCIATES _ Registered Nofessional Reporters i' 747 Midland Bank Buddin Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 53 Phone (6121 378-3530 e4 10 1 Q Any other recollection other than what is set forth 2 in the minutes for that date? 3 A No. 4 Q The next one is April 5th of 1982. It's on the last 5 page of those minutes, and it's a small item. 6 A (Witness reading minutes.) 7 Q Do you recall anything else occurring other than what 8 is set forth in the minutes for that date, April 5th? 9 A Uh-uh. 10 Q All right, Would you go to the next meeting, which 11 wculd be April 26th of 1982; and I think it starts on 12 page 4. I►m not sure. 13 A (`Fitness reading minutes.) 14 Q Have you reviewed those minutes? 15 A yes, I have. 16 Q And, do they reflect your recollection of what occurred 17 at the Council meeting of April 26th, 1982? 18 A Yes, sir; they do. 19 Q Do you have any other recollection of what occurred 20 on that date? 21 A No. sir. 22 Q Now, during the course of this period of the Council 23 meetings regarding this proposal did ,. you attend any 24 meetings with any of the neighbors? 25 A Yes, air. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES F- Registered Professional Reporters I 747 Midland Bank Building g i `• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 338-3530 i° 1 Q 2 3 A 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A 11 And, were you involved in any discussions with any of the neighbors that were concerned about this project? I attended a meeting that was held in the old Instant Web building, wherein they had drafted a different plat, or an outline of the plat; but, I was in a hurry to attend -- was that the same date? I don't remember the date. I don't remember the date, but I did attend a meeting, and did see a draft of a different plan. Who was present at that meeting? I have no idea specifically. I mean, are you -- Okay. Well, were any -- was anyone from Derrick there? Not that I can recall. Was Kathy Schwartz there? She may have been. I do not recall. k Was Frank Beddor there? Yes. And, who prepared this draft? The draft Yes,. that:. you just referred to? i I'm not sure it was a draft. It was more of a plan. Okay. Who prepared the plan? I really don't know. And, what was the nature of the discussion over the period of time that you were there? Well, I'm not sure I would call it a discussion. It st HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES �4 � !i.•�t:;E�'r'rd /'rn�i•s3iU11t:( Rrpt�rtir: 747 Midland Bank 6widing ;Finn.fiupuiis. y!" Phone 1612) 338 353u 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 a X 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A Q A 12 was just sort of an exposure, or the suggestion that this might be an alternative plat. Looking at it was strictly an informative thing. I mean, as far as I'm concerned. I feel it part of my job to keep an open eye on anything that's available. Who was presenting that plan at that meeting? I'm not entirely sure that there was any -- at least when I was there, that there was anybody that was specifically pointing out anything. The map was on the wall. Who invited you to the meeting? I don't remember if it was specifically an individual or a group. @ Were any of the other Council members present at that? MR. KNUTSON: You've assumed that she was on the Council at the time. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Were you on the Council at the time of the. meeting? A Yes s I was. Q All right. Was any other Council members present? A The Mayor was there. Q Okay. Arid, that Mayor was Tom Hamilton? A That's correct. n Did you have any discussion with him at that time? A No, sir. 920' " HERBERT L PETERSON & ASSOCIATES fie gi,ctercil R,•purrcr: 747 Midland Bank Building 1 � Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone 1.6121 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 I- - - - - 13 i Q Did you talk to him at all? A Not there. I should say not that I can recall. Q Okay. Were any of the other Council members present? A Not that I can recall. Q Anyone from City staff there? A I don't recall. Q Anyone from the Planning Commission there? A I have no recollection. Q All right. As I understand it so far, you came to this gathering, you saw a plan on -the wall, and you don't recall there being any specific conversation, you looked at -it and you had to leave early? A Th-at 's correct,, There was no presentation during the time that you } were there? i A To the best of my recollection, no. I Q Okay. Do you recall talking to anyone while you were there? A Well, I'm sure I must have; but, I can't remember any specific conversation. Q All right. . Have we covered everything that you recall at that meeting? A Well, let me think --- yes. I Q Okay. Any other meetings or gatherings that you attended? ° �zt�'1;t HERBERT L. PETERSON- & ASSOCIATES R:'gzstcrcd 14-,j'c,csic�tet Reporters �. 747 Midland Btnk Building nneapolis, Minnesota: 5540' Phone (672) 338-3530 � 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 1.3 14 15 16 17 13 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 lb MR. KNUTSON: Other than City Council, Planning Commission meetings? BY MR, DIETZEN: Q Yes? A No, sir. Q Did you have any discussions with this project, or about this project with any other City Council members? A Not to my recollection. Q Do you recall having any conversations with Tom Hamilton with respect to this project? A Not to my recollection. Q Do you recall having any meetings with Roger Derrick, the developer? i Yes. hh t'i Q Al? right. When do you recall, or what do you recall in that regard? A I recall that it followed a meeting. Mr. Derrick requested to talk to me, and I said "fine". And, it was kind of noisy. It was downstairs, I believe it was after the Corp of Engineer meeting; but, I'm not sure of that. And, we came upstairs, and Mr. Hamilton -- Mayor Hamilton and myself and Mr. Derrick had a meeting. And, Mr. Derrick asked us if there was any possibility of expediting the project, and we explained to him that it would have to go through the regular < HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES t J RtWiste•red 1'ro fessiunal Rez orl r,s 747 Midland Bank Buiidiny t Nlinneapolis, Minnesota 55401 � ��U y A Phone 1612) 33? 3530 v 1= 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q process, and there was nothing we coul Regular process, referring to the -- Standard procedure. -- City Council? The standard procedure of the City. Okay. What is the standard procedure l I cannot remember what the specifics were at that particular point; but, there were -- I can't really answer that, because I don't know to which ones we were particularly referring. Was there anyone else present at that meeting? No, sir. When you were talking about procedures, is it possible you were referring to the Corp of Engineer process, or the permit application? That may have been involved. All right. Do you recall any other meetings with the developer, or anyone from the staff of Derrick? Notthat I can recall. i Do you have any specialized training, or experience in environmental matters? No, Sir. Did you ever go out to view the property? Yes, sir. Do you recall when that was, and what you did? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES WgI-s(e're'd 1'rofessional Reporter., 747 Midland Bank Building 4 7' Minneapolis, Minnesota 554v1v�Ny" Phone (612) 338-353C 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 A No, sir; because I went out there several times. Q Do you recall reviewing any documentation supplied to you by the City on environmental, or wetland issues regarding this project? A Mr. Dietzen, as you know, there is voluminous copies of that, and I have absolutely no idea of which came from where, or what. I remember reading a great deal of documentation about it, but I don't remember from what source it was. Q Do you recall reviewing documents,. or reports, letters, or whatever regarding wetlands? A Again, I can't recall that it was specifically for - any that, -- we have a lot of this that comps through. Q All r' ght . Well, is there anything that sticks ir. your mind with respect to this proj eet, or is this Just one of many, and your recollection is vague and hazy about this ore? A I'm not sire I know how to answer that. I'm not sure thatit's vague and hazy. There are a lot of projects that go through, and one doesn't really keep then -- at least I don't keep them categorized in my head. Q Certainly. I'm just trying to get an understanding in my orn mind as to whether you have any specific recol- lection of any aspect of this particular proposal or not. So far we've covered the City Council meetings. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Rcgishcred Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 d y�.""rt i t Phone (6 S 2) 328-3530 t'kF 1 2 3 A 4 Q 5 6 7 s 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 is 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 I 11 41 Q A Q A Q N -- -- - - 17 You indicated that you have no other recollection. other than what's contained in the minutes? That's correct. And, we've covered a neighborhood meeting that your attendance was very short and brief? That's correct. We've covered a meeting with Roger Derrick, yourself and the Mayor after either a City Council meeting, or a Corp of Engineers; and is there anything else that you recall about this process that we have not already covered? I can't think -of anything that isn't covered in the minutes that we haven't covered. Do you maintain --- I'm sorry, did you finish? Yes. Do you have your own file that contains documents that i You've received from the City regarding this pro jeciU i It's here. (Witness indicating.) f� Do you have your own personal file that you have at ! hor-nF ? Nothing that isn't here. MR. LAUGHINGHOUSE: This is what you brought? THE WITNESS: Yes. MR. LAUGHINGHOUSE: This is different HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES --- � -- krhi.;trrcd Projessiona Feporters 747 Midland Bank Building 1 .,.'a !Minneapolis, Minnyac•a 5540' Phone (61, 2) 338-3530 r ' 18 1 from the City's documents. 2 BY MR. DIETZEN: 3 Q Oh, you brought some material here today? 4 A Yes. 5 Q Okay. Y see May I it, please? 6 A You certainly may. -7 MR. KNUTSON: Mr. Dietzen, I have re- 3 viewed these materials, and I have removed 9 certain items that we think are attorney/client 10 privilege. There are letters from the City 11 Attorney to the Council. 12 MR. DIETZEN: All r1eht_ 13 BY MR. DIETZEN: 14 0 The documents that I've been given are documents that I 15 + are part of your own personal file on this matter; 16 is that correct? 17 A (Witness :nodding.) I 18 Q 01, ay . 19 PAIR. LAUGHINGHOUSE: Should we go off the 2° I record for a moment. 21 (Discussion off the record.) 22 PAR. DIETZEN: 23 ��BY Q Directing your attention to a memo of February 14, 1983 24 an attachment on page 11, there are some handwritten 25 notes -there; can you tell me whether those are your HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES 11reistered 1 rr)%rss;�rci Rrp,:rter 747 !Midland Bank Budding tv7inneapolis, Minnoscra 55401 Phone (612) 338 3530 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 9 13 14 15 16 17 1s 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 19 notes? A Yes, they are. Q Do you know what those notes relate to? A They relate to my concern with dockage in that area;. and -- do I have a question? Q Yes. My question was: do you know what those notes relate to? A Yes. They would relate to item number 502 of the conservation easement, section A: placement and direction of building structures and docks and walk- ways, except as may be permitted by section 503 there- of. And then 503 was left open, and these were my i feelings on what might be appropriate. You know, that would have been try feeling as to 503. Q Well, you've got -- for the record, you've got one, it says: two boats per dock -- A Well, I suppose these are just items. Yes, two boats. I don't know that the one and two; it's just maybe -- i Q Okay. I just -- A I don't think this had any reference back to anything else. Q Okay. But, the second entry you have there is "no dock may" -- A Cause encroachment on the existing wetland. Q Okay. And, the third one is: docks may not be more HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Rcgistrrvd 1-Ofcssional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Mhinescia 55401" Phone (612) 338 3530 v{at=r,y 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 20 than four feet wide. No -- A T. Q -- T or cross -sections will be permitted? A Yes. Q Those were some of the things you were concerned about as far as the docks; is that it? A Well, as I would put this together, starting with this -- Q Okay. A -- is that this -- this would refer back. T reiterate to item A of 502. Q Okay. A Which refers to 503. Q 01c ay A 503 uras bland, when l received it. These were my thoughts on what might be contained in 503. Q 1 see, You don't have any entry there as far as nu-mber of docks? A No, except that -- well, okay. Let's leave it at that. Q Was there some feeling on your part that a specific number of docks would be acceptable? 1? Yes . Q What was that? A Three. Q Why was that? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES ke'r;islcred I rufc'sswrto( Reporters I 747 Midland Bank Budding ' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 338 3530 `sway 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Because that -- beyond that extension north would be the encroachment on the wetlands. Q Now, directing your attention to a memo of June 1 of 1981, there are some notes here on a -- A Oh, I do scribble. Q -- on a portion that says "section one stags July 21, 1980, plan approval"; and then there is a note in ink on the side here, it says "why was this brought back to Council on July before stipulation --of April not complied with, question mark"; is that your note? A Yes, it is. Q And then there is another note here that says "Council broke faith with neighborhood by having July meeting before April 7, 1980 conditions met", Question mark; are those your notes? A Yes. I don't know why I would have put they neighbor- hood down there, but T imagine this Is just, again: a i thought about vihy bring this back. 1 I Q Were you wcrking pretty closely with the neighborhood on this matter? A No, but I was certainly exposed to it. Q Would it be fair to say that there was some neighbor- hood opposition to this project? A I would say that is a fair comment. Q Substantial opposition may be a better way to put it? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES � A:� K;•Kra:terr,d l ro/isswrtci' Rtpuries l ,� 11 747 Midland Bank autiding < Minneapolis. Minnescia 55-4+J1 �� 41 Phone 1612) 338-3530 Y 22 1 A (Witness laughing.) 2 Q Are you personally aware of any ordinance of the City 3 of Chanhassen that sets forth objective standards to 4 regulate the size and number of docks? 5 MR. KNUTSON: As far as you are asking for 6 a legal conclusion I'm going to object; but, if 7 the witness feels she can answer it, give it a 8 try. 9 THE WITNESS: I'll pass. 10 BY MR. DIETZEN: 11 Q I'm sorry, are you aware of any ordinance that sets 12 forth objective standards to regulate the size or 13 number of docks in Chanhassen? 14 A I find that a difficult question to answer, Mr. I 15 � Dietzen, because I feel that within ordinances that 1 16 are existing there are leeways which would give its 17 that right i 13 Q Al! right. What ordinances are you referring to? ' j 9 A 1 would say that under the Planned Residential De- 20 velopment we have great leeways of decisions as tc 21 what could be done. 22 Q All right. Would gh you agree with me that the words 23 "dock regulation" don't appear ppear in any of those regula-- 24 tions or ordinances? 25 A I would not say that it does not occur. I will only HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registercd 1'rojcssionei W.vortcrs 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, MinnesctA 55401 Phone 1612) 338 3530 1 C e �� �1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 23 say that I cannot specifically recall that it does. Q Okay. Fair enough. During the time that you've been with the City Council, are you aware of any regulation of private docks by the City of Chanhassen? A Of private docks? Q Yes? A Not that I can recall within my tenure, no. Q Do you live on a lake? A Yes. Q Do you have a dock? A Yes. Q Did you get a permit for the dock? A No. i (Arhereupon there was a brief pause in the proceeding.) BY N;R . DIETZEN : Q I, -Then you talked about the three docks, are you assurni docks not wider than four feet? A The three docks? 0, You said that three docks would be acceptable, and I asked --- A Yes. Q And I'm asking whether you are assuming a width of --- A Yes. Q -- four feet? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES I RC,;cs!c�red Fr,)jc•.sswiia! Rrportc�r. I 747 Midland Bank Building u Minneaeolis. Minnesota 55401 Phone 1612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 s a 10 11 12 13 14 A Q A Q 1;1 15 16 Q 17 is 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 1 A Q k 24 Yes. How did you come to that conclusion that you could only; get three docks before you got to the wetlands? Well, I'm sure if you have a map here you'll be able to determine that that's the flow of the land. Well, I think I've got one -- at one point I had a plat. Showing you a preliminary plat, which I believe is Exhibit D to the complaint This won't do it. There is somewhere in existence an aerial plan, an aerial view which -shows that as you get passed here this just comes right out here. (Witness 'indicating.) So, these three lots would not endanger the wetlands and the breeding ground in here;i but, if You get down In _"sere it will. (Witness indi- cating.) Okay, When you say "three lots", you're talking about) i the lets that are at the -- 19, lc and 17. 19, 18 and 17? Yes. And, this is even a dangerous one. This --- thin 1 one really ought not go beyond the middle of the lot, i because the land -- there is no question about it, Mr. Dietzen. I mean, there is a very sensitive area in here. Okay. When you say "a sensitive area", can you tell ' HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES ' Riktslrrcd 1'rnJi•,csic:r;c:l lirp<:rft'r: i 747 Midland Banknuildinq y.. y Minneapolis, Wnnascts 55401 Phone 1612) 336 3530 Z.! 21 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 1 17 is 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 IA Q A Q A 25 me just what you are referring to as a -- The knowledge that I have just been able to acquire from the things that we've read, and that have been submitted to us, I will only follow the, you know, the expert's advice on this; but, I understand that there is a certain type of wetland in here. There are -- I can't think of it -- cattails and marsh land. It's sensitive. It helps to prevent the drainage from the land going into the lake. There ,is a breeding ground. We have wild animals, wild birds that nest down in this area. I'm only familiar with this because there is a similar area on the lake in which I live; so, perhaps I'm concerned about it. But, I do know that the dockage in here i s relatively safe, and I see no fault with this whatsoever. I am concerned, and have been, and it's well documented, I think, in every- thing, you have here. I am concerned with dockage going into the wetland. mhe wetlands •mould be located near the shore there: as You go further -- what, as you go further north? Yes:. It runs all the way along this line here, and all along the curve. And, when you say it is a breeding ground, a breeding ground for what? Oh, heavens. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES j' Hr�;t.stored Pr. � rssuoruii 1:cprirte'r; I. 747 Midland Bank Build n Minneapolis. Minnesute 55401 Phone (612) 338 35-10 1 2 3 4 Q A Q A 5 6 7 3 Q 9 10 A 11 Q 12 A 13 14 Q 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Is it fish, or is No, it would be b It would be both. To the best of my knowledge. I know that there are, you know, there are birds, fowl, and this type of thing. It also prevents the infiltration of the run— off going down into the water. Were you aware that Dr. Warner concluded that the ten docks would actually enhance the situation out there? No, sir; I am not aware of that. Did you receive a report from Dr. Warner? I don't reca-11. I received. so many I don't remember from whom they came. All right. Do you remember uho the experts were that you did receive reports from? I've heard Ken Karr's name being mentioned from the U.S Fish and Wildlife, and I know that Dr. Warner submitted a report; do you recall any others? it ,:eem_- to, me that there was some documentation, but I don't remerber offhand -- from Don Berg of Soil and Conservation -- that had some question as to the sub,-- ject. (Vlhereuvon there way a brief pause in the proceeding.) By MR. DIETuEN : r HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES ' �irktsh'rrd !'rofessi„rui Re porters r 747 Midland Bank E'uiidng � ,•, ". Mtirnespolis. YSir:nesntn 55401 ti a y;t �u Phone [612) 338 3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 a 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 DO A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A C� Q A Q A Q -- 27 Does the City have an official wetland distr'^t overlay map? We have a wetland's map. Is there an ordinance governing wetlands? There is one in the process of being drafted. Not approved? That's corre ct. . To your knowledge, is there a public access on Lotus Lake? Is there a public access? And, where is that located? You are asking- me if there is? is there; yes? There is an access in the Carver Beach. Right now t11-ere seems to be some controversy as to whether it's public, per se. All r-igh-t• . Contr-cversy between the City and Nearby residents, All -right . And, the DNR? 1 don't think the DNR is involved in that. Okay . Do you know why this project has been pending so long before the City Council? I would have to say that there have been a lot of changes from the original plan. And, what changes are you referring to? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES lr.�:,;f�'rra 1•rv%r.ainrci Rrpurh•rs 747 Midland Sank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone '6121 338-3530 1 A 2 3 4 5 Q 6 7 1 A 3 Q 9 10 11 12 A 1.3 Q 14 i 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 IA Q A Q A N Well, the changes from the 49 lots to the different number of lots. We had the curve of the street change; specifically those two that I can think of at the moment. And, the City granted final plan approval in July of 1980; correct? According to the minutes; that is correct. And, from July of 180 to the present date, at least up until the time of the filing of the lawsuit there was no development contract that had been' approved by the City; correct? As I recall. Do you knoll i,rizy it's taken three years to get a de- ve-Lop:;ient contract approved by the City? It <s 7,J r-e coii£cti.c)-. t! a all of the conditions had not been met. Isn't -'_t that the del7eloper wrote a letter to the City :in,,lic.ating that it `.,as his position that the con(�_ ticns had been met, and they wanted to proceed t•aith development? I don't; recall the letter. Well, v,,ha.t conditions are you talking about that you don't think had been met? I have been trying to remember specifically, Mr. Dietzen, I really don't. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES 12r is, 'ra'd i roof\6 (iFILi Rg)?)rte'rs 747 Midland Bank Budding Mirweapoli%. M!nnaSCia 55401 Phone 16121 336-3530 1 Q 2 3 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 MR 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q :z Q 29 Okay. Now, you talked about changes in the plan; are those changes that were requested by the City? The two that I mentioned were requested by the de— veloper. You don't think they were requested by the City staff? Not the number of lots, or the curvular street. All right. Piave you ever met with, or talked about this project with Frank Deddor? No. I have not. When did you first become aware that there was neigh— bor: ood opposition to this project? i co not specifically recall. Do you think that's the -reason for the delay, is the ne; ghbo-rhooc cn,:ositiar:? Tr o ' ' t yy� , . .t L L 111 1 :: `- J :% . Do you keep an appointment book that would indicate i -o,,lr a-oPcin1,-T,-,ents Over a given year? is T f ' r ti n Ise you have any other documents other than what you've � Brought here today? MR. KNUTSON: Except the letters I mentioned from the attorneys. BY MR. DIET7,EN : Q Okay. Other than that; this is all you have? A Yes. I 1 Y HERBERT L PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Rcgi tere(] !r,lessionui N,.'pu�le'rc 747 Midland Bark Suiidmg Minneapolis, Minnesota 55441 Phone 16121 338 3530 1 Q 2 3 A 4 Q 5 A 6 7 Q 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 30 All right. And, it's your position that there were no private meetings with any other City Councilmen? No, sir. You are sure about that? To the best of my recollection, I have not discussed this with any other City Councilmen. I believe that's all the questions I have. Just give me a minute. (Whereupon there was a brief pause in the proceeding.) BY MR. DIETZ,EN : Q Okay. That's all. the questions I have. Th-ere are some documents here that I would like to copy. Would it be !agreeable- ,with you if' i made copies of what I wanted anL F7,41re ';'our documents back to your counsel? MR. KNUTSOINT : Sure. THE WITNESS: Okay. R . DIE" Z;,i:: It's cheaper for any: to make copies of ry own stuff rather than pay a dollar a pare . MR. KNUTSON: Is that what we charge? Mrs, Swenson, you have the right to read and sign your deposition after the court reporter has transcribed it into written farm, and I recommend that you do so; okay? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES E hegi:a•rcd Prof-ss.urai Repur!er,: 747 Midland Bark Buiiding y L4! i ,�•• Riirinoepulis, Minnesota r5401 Phone (612) 333-3530 .r ` 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 THE WITNESS: Agreed. MR. KNUTSON: Okay. MR. DIETZEN: Okay. Thank y( (Witness excused. Deposition ended at 4:00 o'clock p.m.) HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Reg;sIvred Profvssiunu; Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401 Phone 1612) 338-3530 .r d 32 1 I, Patricia Swenson, do hereby certify that I have 2 read the foregoing transcript of my deposition this ;:�,,-, day 3 of�'!Il £ , 1983, and believe the same to be true and 4 correct (or, except as follows, noting the page and line 5 number of the change or addition described and the reason 6 why : ) 7 PAGE LIFE CHANGE AND REASON FOR m4AMnR 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 .Subscribed and st-rcrn to before ire this day 21 Of ---- ..� _ 19 8 3 . 22 23 24 25 110TARY PUBLTC P PATRICIA SI-MNSOM HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES ' . lir.r; rstrrt•d I'rnfi•a;r; rc1 Ji:•Uu'tr-•; i )47 Midland Bank Bui!drng k Minneaoolis. Minnesota 5540 Phone- ;6? 21 33H ?530 `e+•z- a. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 33 STATE OF MINNESOTA) ) ss: COUNTY OF SCOTT ) BE IT KNOWN, that I took the deposition of PATRICIA j SWENSON, pursuant to Notice and Agreement of Counsel; that I was then and there a Notary Public in and for the County of Scott and State of Minnesota; that I exercised the power of that office in taking said deposition; that by virtue thereof I was then and there authorized to administer an oath; that said witness, before testifying, was duly sworn.to testify the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth relative to the cause specified in the title; that I arf,. not employed by nor related to any of the parties hereto nor in any way {� _..fetes°.ee- in the out:ccre, of th1a action; thaw this is an I i i accurate- transcript of ny stenot.:Tpe notes to the 'Lest of MY ability prepared ur;der my direction and control. WITNESS M:' H 11 D A1,1D SEAL. THIS day of June, 1081. JEFFREY G. KELZER Notary Public Scott County, Minnesota 111y commission expires June 4, 1987. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Rc4ic„•rcd Prri;cssiot;a f r lush r: 74 7 Midland Bark Budding IAinneapulis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 333 3530 w 1 2 3 4 5 39 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 1s 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 88 -- i, Donald Ashworth, do hereby certify that I have read the foregoing transcript of ny deposition this 21st day of June , 1983, and believe the sarne to be true and correct (or, except as follows, noting the page and line number of the charge or addition described and the reason why:) PAGE LINE CHANGE AND REASON FOR CHANGE AAtGE 10 9 Strike "you know" � To correct my statement or the court recorder's transcription of my statement. 18 10 Change "street" to To correct my statement "lake" or the court recorder's transcription of my statement. 23 13, 14 was rezoning, Recorder incorrectly subdivision, punctuated. 53 1 Change "plot" to Misrecorded "plat" 58 4 Change "plot" to Misrecorded ''plat" 61 10 Strike first "that" To correct my statement or the court recorder's transcription of my statement. DONAL'D ASHwORTH Subscribed and.sworn to before me this Q2&'-day of t� 1983. KAREN J. ENGELHARDT ilwl,�. NOTARY PUBLIC- MINNESOTA 1T? My Commission Expires Oct. 11, 1985 2 -- •�+. "T.,lj. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 51 61 7i 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 1s 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 88 I, Donald Ashworth, do hereby certify that I have read the foregoing transcript of my deposition this 21st day of June , 1983, and believe the name to be true and correct (or, except as follows, noting the page and line number of the charge or addition,described and the reason why:) PAGE LINE CHANGE AND REASON FOR. CHAN1117 62 14 developer's request or 63 16 Change "that" to "it " 63 17 delete "one" 86 21 not own. does he own then Subscribed and sworn to befor- me this o2/4t—day of cz<c/ 1983. KAREN J. ENGELHARDT NOTARY PUBLIC - MINNESOTA CARVER COUNTY To correct my statement or the court r,Ycorder' s transcription of my statement. To correct my statement or the court recorder's transcription of my statement. To correct my statement or the court recorder's transcription of my statement. Recorder incorrectly punctuated. DONALD ASHWORTH L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 p•pon.. Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3. 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 1 STATE OF MINNESOTA DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF CARVER FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT ------------------------------------------------------------ Derrick Land Company, a Minnesota corporation, Plaintiff, vs . City of Chanhassen, a 1,-unicipal corporation; and Thomas Hamilton, Clark Horn, Patricia Swenson, Dale Geving, John Ne veaux, and Carol Watson, Defendants. File No. 181.49 ------------------------------------------------------------ DEPOSITION OF DONALD ASHWORi s ;:, anz. to Notice and Agreement of Counsel, under the i,-u:leo Of C`Lvil Procedure for the District Courts of Minnesota, com- mencing at about the hour of 9 :30 o'clock a.m. , June 2, 1983, at Suite 1500, Northwestern Financial Center., 7900 Xerxes Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota, before Jeffrey G. Kel.ze,l,, a Notary Public in and for the County of ":cots: and State of M.nnesota. APPEARANCES: CHRISTOPHER J. DTETZEN, Esq., of LARKIN, HOFFMAN,, DALE` AND LINDGREN, 1500 Northwestern Financial Center, 7900 Xerxes Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minne-- sata 55431, appeared on behalf of the Plaintiff; HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered I rofessionat Reporter: 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 INDEX EXAMINATION BY: Mr. Christopher J. Dietzen. . . . . ASHWORTH DEPOSITION EXHIBIT: 1. Notice and document request . . . . . PAGE: 2 PAGE: 3 _ v�Rcgute•red 1 rofessicinnl Reportersv ~ •, � 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401 Phone 16121 338-3530 1 2 3_ 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 K ROGER N. KNUTSON, Esq., of GRANNIS, GRANNIS, CAMPBELL AND FARRELL, 403 Northwestern Bank Building, South St. Paul, Minnesota 55075, appeared on behalf of the Defendants; ALSO APPEARING: Kurt Laughinghouse. DONALD ASHWORTH, witness herein, having been first duly sworn, was examined and testified as follows: EXAMINATION: By MR. DIETZEN: Q Mrr. Ashworth, would you state your name and resident address for the record, please? A Don Ashworth, 7401 Longview, Chanhassen, Minnesota. Q And, what is your business or occupation? A City Manager, city of Chanhassen. Q How long have you been employed by the City of Chanhassen? A I've been employed since April 1st, 1976, Q And, how long have you been the City Manager? A During that entire time. Q And, pursuant to the Notice of Taking Deposition, you were given a request for production of documents; correct? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered 1 rojessionai Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 .1�? a" "" Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3, 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 3 A Correct. Q All right. And, did you ,bring with you any documents pursuant to that request? A Only the notification to be here. Q Let's mark that as an Exhibit. (Ashworth Deposition Exhibit Number 1 marked for identification.) BY MR. DIETZEN: Q All right. Mr. Ashworth, showing you what's been marked as Deposition Exhibit Number 1, is that the notice and the document request that you were provided with .in connection with your deposition here today? A Yes. Q All. right. And, is it your testimony that with respect to the items I through 7 that you have no such docu- ments? A I have no documents listed under 1 through 7, me personally, Q All right. With respect to document request number 1? A Okay. Q Where would those documents be kept? A All minutes of City Council actions are maintained by my secretary in the main files for the City. Q So, your secretary has the minutes and that's why you didn't bring them; is that it? LI , HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES ; .. Registered Professional Reporters N• 747 Midland Bank Building 1 P" Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 `� N•Pwi•, �V..S Phone (612) 338-3530 i 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 4 A That is correct. Q Does she keep the minutes -under your supervision and direction? A All personnel of the City of Chanhassen work under my direction. Q Fine. And then does the number 2: correspondence re- ceived from the --- or received by the City with respect to the project, from Frank Beddor, or from anyone else;) where would those documents be found? A Correspondence regarding the project are maintained in a project file, and that's through the Planning De- partment. It is in the same main filing system of the City. Q Is that also maintained by your secretary? A There are three secretaries who jointly share re- sponsibility for filing, especially planning type of documents Q All right. Number 3: copies of any and all ordinances, of the City of Chanhassen purporting to regulate the use of the lake surface of Lotus Lake; are there any such documents? MR. KNUTSON: You are asking for a legal conclusion, and as far as your asking for a legal conclusion I instruct Mr. Ashworth not to answer. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters ILI 2-, n 747 Midland Bank Building w,,:.... ''""••-^"•• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 n.p•rc., Phnnw 16121 i 2A-�F, iC1 11 PA 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 1 25 1 MR. DIETZEN: Did you bring a motion with respect to that, Counsel? MR. KNUTSON: Of course I didn't, or you would know about it. I'm just telling him not to answer. We'll make all ordinances of the City available to you. MR. DIETZEN: Have you brought anything with you today? You haven't, and that's the problem. MR. KNUTSON: Mr. Ashworth has nothing in his personal possession. People from your office have already gone over there and combed through City files You've already seen that. If you want to go through it again, help your- self. MR. DIETZEN: I made a request for him to bring documents with him. I expected him to bring those documents with him this morning. Now, as far as I'm concerned, if there was a problem with that.. I should have been notified. He has no documents. Certainly we have reviewed the file. That's not what I asked. I didn't ask whether we've reviewed the file, or didn't review the file. I asked him to bring documents and he didn't bring one damn piece of paper with I HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered Professional Reporters qw 747 Midland Bank Building o: "^ Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401.' R, Phone 1612) 338-3530 0 1 him. 2 MR. KNUTSON,z He has no documents in his 3- personal possession. 4 MR. DIETZEN: Well, I'm going to cancel 5 the deposition, and if you want to go through 6 it step by step, Mr. Knutson, we'll go through 7 it. 3 MR. KNUTSON: Fine. 9 MR. DIETZEN: And, I think it's a little 10 preposterous for me to make this request, and 11 for him to come with nothing. 12 MR, KNUTSON: He has no documents in his 13 personal possession, 14 MR. DIETZEN: And as the City Manager, he 15 supervises all of this., and he has control over 16 these documents, and yet he doesn't bring them. 17 MR. KNUTSON: He didn't bring them because 18 1 told him not to bring them¢ 19 MR, DIETZEN: But, you.didn't tell me 20 that until this morning, 21 MR. KNUTSON: Are we through then? 22 MR. DIETZEN: We are going to reschedule 23 the deposition.for 11 o'clock at the City Half.; 24 and I would like to have this witness bring 25 with him those documents so that we can review HER BERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered H-o(essional Reporters Np ,•rw 747 Midland Bank Building t F ter•••"„•r Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 d'"r S.iwr:.r F� Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 rM 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 7 them. THE WITNESS:- I'm sorry. 11 o'clock when? MR. DIETZEN: Today. MR. KNUTSON: Do you want the City files -- we'll have all the City files there, MR. DIETZEN: Thank you. That's what I wanted. I mean, I want the documents that are requested here. I didn't ask for the fun of it, MR. KNUTSON: You asked for documents in his possession, and that's what I understood it: "in his possession" to mean; and so I instructed him not to bring them, If you wanted the City files, you should have asked for them, BY MR. DIETZEN: Do you have, Mr. Ashworth a any files that you kept with respect to this project? A No. Q All right. (Whereupon the deposition was moved to the City Hall in Chanhassen.. The time is 10:00 o'clock a.m.) HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters ILI 4111, 747 Midland Bank Building °'•"'°"•' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 u. oort., ^! - - - 1-1 ..-- 1 2: 3- 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 1-9 20 21 22 23 24 25 8 (June 2nd, 1983; 11:00 o'clock a.m.; City Hall in Chanhassen.) EXAMINATION: BY MR. DIETZEN: Q The record should reflect that we are now in the City of Chanhassen -- what do we call the building here, Mr. Ashworth? A Chanhassen City Hall. Q Chanhassen City Hall. And, there are documents on the table here. If you would, for the record, generally ider±tiay what they are by grouping here; and if you could start on this side gust so I can orient myself as to what we have • You have three books containing ordinances. Those are the original copies of all ordinances in the City. You have a second pile of City Council minutes that are filed by year, for years 1979 through 1983. You have _- Q These are the City Council minutes; are these bound volumes here, Mr. Ashworth? A That's correct, R And., what's on top, the loose-leaf material? A All. right. The loose-leaf material should rightly be placed down with the last three files.. 1 HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Tro(essional heporrers a� •,r 747 Midland Bank Building w.o. Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 338-3530 1 Q 2 3- 4 A 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A Q A Q A Q A 9 All right. I'll go down there and put it on the last stack. So, we've covered the first two. Let's go down further here? The next set of loose-leaf, three --ring binders -- there is five of them there -- they represent Planning Commission minutes for the years 1979 through 1983. The final group of papers in that -•- let's see -- start with the bottom portion, the three large -- how should I describe those -- loose-leaf binders. Legal sized? Legal sized binders. Okay. Represent the Project File. All right. In this case, project Files regarding this project. The loose materials that you just took off the top of that pike -- Okay, --•- should be repeated within that Project -- group of Project Files, In other words, they should represent extra copies of information that is basically in the Project Piles. There may be miscellaneous information � in there that either did not get filed, or was con-, sidered at the time not important enough to be place; into the official Project File. Rather than take any a: HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 4V a.00r;.If7� Phone l6121 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 ]3 14 15 IVE 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A NUIS 10 chance, I simply brought it in. The calendars -- my 1983 desk calendar from my office. The rolled document is really a part of the Project File information. It represents a submittal sent to the City of Chanhassen by Mrs. Kathleen Schwartz as a part of the information that she felt was pertinent to this issue. She was a citizen opposing the project in general? Kathleen Schwartz is a citizen. I have no knowledge as to, you knows opposition. ' All right. Are these all of the documents that you are aware of that would consist of the City records and files with respect to this -project that is the subject matter of this litigation? M-R. KNUTSON: Mr. Dietzen, I should point out,, as you probably are aware, I have taken out confidential, attorney/client privilege information; that is letters from the City's attorneys to the members of the Council, and letters requesting opinions from. members of the City staff to their attorneys. That has been removed. MR. DIETZEN: Okay. Those two subject areas: one would be letters from the City Attorney to the Council members -- MR. KNUTSON: And, I think and to Mr. i HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES IL11, Registered 1 rofessional Reporters aw•.,�, 747 Midland Bank Building P, ^••'^ •' Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401 Phone 16121 338-3530 1 2 3- 4 51 Ci _M 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 11 Ashworth and maybe other members of the staff. MR. DIETZEN: And the City Attorney was Larson and Mertz? MR. KNUTSON: That's right. And on some occasions me. MR. DIETZEN: And, what was the second category that you mentioned? MR. KNUTSON: Requests from the City staff, or City Council staff for legal opinions. MR. DIETZEN: And, it's your position that those are privileged? MR. KNUTSON: That's correct. MR. DIETZEN: And, you have custody of those documents? I MRf KNUTSON: As of this minute, I do. � MR. DIETZEN: I'm not agreeing whether they are privileged or not privileged, but I'm Just trying to get a handle as to where they are in case we want to pursue it. MR. KNUTSON: I'll probably leave them in City Hall if there is an instruction to look at them. MR. DIETZEN: Do you have an approximate time frame of these letters; would it be 179 through the present date? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building t j Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401�a .. xn.rT Phone (612i 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 -6 7 8 X 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 12 MR. KNUTSON : I didn't --- they go through the present day. I don't recall when the first one was generated. MR DIETZEN: Okay. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Okay. Other than those items that you just identified that were pulled out, Mr. Ashworth, are these documents here the entire City file with respect to this project, to the best of your knowledge, information and belief? A To the best of my knowledge, the information on this table represents the complete information regarding Derrick. Q Okay. For example, are there other staff files that would contain correspondence with respect to this project? A City staff members have been instructed that they are not to maintain personal files within their office relative to any project; and, that's simply to for reasonable assurance that our files are corr;plete as part of our main filing system. I cannot -- I have not one through each individual's desk to verify that � E y there are no such documents, that there are no letters; but to the best of my knowledge, there should not be, and I do not believe that there is. Q Okay, Are there any other site plans, or schematic HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered f'rofessiona! Reporters Rp rsbv.1 747 Midland Bank Building P '•• ^ ' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 i:•�.:. Phone 16121 338-3530 13 1 drawings with respect to this project maintained by 2 the City that are not here? 3 A I believe during the course of the project, there has 4 been one or more larger drawings mounted on a hard- 5 backed board. I'm not sure if we currently have those 6 or not. 7 Q If you do, where would you find them? 8 A They would be in our engineering department. I can 9 request that the secretary bring those in if she can to find them, if there are any. 11 Q If there are any? 12 A Yes. 13 Q Okay. Perhaps we could have that done over the noon 14 hour just so we know that we have everything. Okay. 15 you indicated you are the City Manager, and have been 16 since April i of 176; correct? 17 A That's correct. 18 Prior to coining with the City, could you outline for 19 us your educational background and work experience? 20 A January of 1971 through April lst of '76 I was the 21 Assistant Manager for the City of Maplewood; Assistant 22 Manager/Finance Director. 169 through '70 1 obtained 23 my Masters Degree from the University.of Kansas. 1964 24 through 1969 I was the Assistant Manager --- I had 25 various titles during that time frame -- with the City HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered f rofessional Reporters qps 747 Midland Bank Building 1 Minneapolis, Minnesota 554011�;: Phone (612) 338-3530�� Q A Q 7 A 8 9 Q 10 11 A 12 13 Q 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Q A Q A 22 23 24 25 Q 14 of Vermillion, South Dakota. I also worked part-time for the City of Lawrence,.(phonetically) as an ad- ministrative aide during 1969/170. Where did you get your undergraduate degree? University of South Dakota in 161 through 165. All right. And, what was your major, and your degree? My Bachelors Degree was in mathematics; which is a B.A. All right. And, your Masters, what was your degree in and your major? My Masters Degree was in Public Administration, and that is the title of the degree: M.P.A. What are your duties and responsibilities as City Manager for Chanhassen? I supervise all employees of the City of Chanhassen, and act as the chief administrative officer for the City, working with the City Council, and the citizenry. Who do you report to? I report directly to the City Council. And, how many folks report to you? City of Chanhassen has 20 full-time employees. All subcontractors are responsible to the City. And, in terms of your question, they would be reporting to myself as well. Are there particular department heads that would report, HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES _ s Registered Professional Reporters Pw ,• r 747 Midland Bank Building JU P �'• N Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Pw w:• Phone 16121 338-3530 1 2 3- 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 M[. 17 in 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 15 to you; specifically the name Bob Waibel comes to mind as somebody that whose name has come up in this proceeding. Does he report to you? A All employees of the City are under the City Manager. However, in terms of an organizational chart, I have selected department heads who then supervise employees under them. Bob Waibel is an employee within the Planning Department. The Planning Director is Scott Martin. Bob reports directly to Scott Martin. Q All right, Now, Chanhassen has a City Council, it also has a Planning, Commission; correct? A That's correct. Q And, does it have any standing committees such as Natural Resources, or something of that nature? A Yes, Q Could you identify those committees for me, please? A Lake Study, Environmental Protection, Public Safety, Housing and Redevelopment Authority, Board of Adjust- ments and Appeals, Park and Recreation, Planning Commission, Police Advisory Committee, Q Does that cover it, to the best of your knowledge, Mr. Ashworth? A I would anticipate that I have left one or two out. Q Fine. Do these committees then report to the City Council, or are they a mixture of Planning Commission HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES .r. i Registered Nojessional Reporters Hp,• • y, 747 Midland Bank Building r °rp'••^�•' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone 16121 338-3530 1 2 A 3. 4 Q 5 A 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 W A Q A L A 24 Q 25 A 16 Committees, as well as City Council Committees? The committees are a mixture as far as who they report to. Which committees report to the City Council? The Planning Commission, Park and Recreation, Public Safety -- it just seems as though I'm missing one other major group. The other ones you mentioned were the Board of Ad- justment and Appeals, Housing -- All right. Board of Adjustment and Appeals is directly to the City Council. Okay. That's four. Does that -- Two that I did not mention that report directly to the City Council include the Minnewashta Lake Study Committee, and the Lotus Lake Boat Access Committee; otherwise, to the best of my knowledge, the remaining committees either have their own autonomy, or report to another commission. When was the -- what do you know about the Lotus Lake Boat Access Committee; when was it formulated, and who are its members? Lotus Lake Boat Access Committee consists of Candy Takkunen. Could you spell the last name for the court reporter? I'm not sure on the spelling. I can give it a best HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered 1rofessional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building "'°'••'� Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 w• '• Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 Q 3- A 4 5 6 VM 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A U 17 guess if you would like -- probably incorrect. That's all right. Let's,.,go on to the other members. Mayor Tom Hamilton, Melvin Kurvers, and a resident of the Chanhassen Estates neighborhood, and I'm sorry, I can't remember his name. The committee was formed approximately three to four months ago. Does it keep minutes? Yes. And, where would those minutes be located? With my secretary. Okay. Would it be possible to get those over the noon hour, those minutes? Yes. Okay. Now, Mr. Ashworth, maybe you don't know the answer to this question. It's a general one: do you know what lakes in Chanhassen are within the juris— diction of the City of Chanhassen; can you just name them off for me? Lakes in total, or part? Bath? Lake Riley, Rice Marsh Lake, Lake Susan, Lotus Lake, Christmas Lake, Lake Lucy, Lake Ann, Lake Minnewashta, Little Saint Joe -- did I say Susan? Yes. Some of these lakes are partially within the City, and partially outside the City; is that correct? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters Fw, ,• 747 Midland Bank Building t ''�'•••'� •' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401'' F•pon •r �_• J�� Phone (612) 338-3530 ®C-fl 1 2 3- 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 -13 14 15 �i 17 18 I 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 18 A That is correct. Q All right. Would you tell me which ones? A Christmas Lake, Rice Marsh Lake, Lake Riley. Q Okay. Now, with respect to Lotus Lake, does that have public access, to your knowledge? A There is a quasi -public access. Q Would you explain that, please? A It does not meet DNR standards for a public access in terms of parking. It is a public right-of-way into the street, and has been used as a public access even though not legally designated as such. Q Where is it located? A In the Carver Beach neighborhood. Q Is there -- you said there was a right -of --way; would you elaborate on that as to how the public would have access there; I don't understand? A The original plat of the Carver Beach neighborhood included a street right-of-way.that terminated at the lake. Additionally, the entire strip of land adjoining that right-of-way was given to the City by the owners of the Carver Beach neighborhood. Q How much land is that; can you quantify it? A The right-of-way is approximately 40 to 50 feet. The strip of land given to the City would be several blocks in length, but a very narrow width, and represents a HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporlers F.v •• 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401 Phone 1612) 338-3530 1 2 3' 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A Q A Q k Q A Q A Q 19 sharp hill throughout most of that length. How much lake frontage would that involve -- first of all, does the right-of-way have lake frontage? The right-of-way is perpendicular to the lake; so, it runs into the lake and has the 40 to 50 feet of width. And, how about that strip of land that you talked about does that have lake frontage? The entire length is lake frontage for the approximate three to four block length. You talked about some kind of terrain situation there; what was that? The width of that strip varies from 10 feet to 50 feet. For most of that entire length, that width, there is a cliff, a sharp dropoff that occurs throughout that entire length. In that state, is it usable for public access then? Only at the public right-of-way area. However, there is no parking available because it is an existing built-up neighborhood. And, that was the reason why the DNR did not character- ize it as a public access, the parking, lack of park- ing? Lack of parking, narrow roads, inability to turn a vehicle, improper access in terms of type of ramp. All right. Do these other lakes have public access in HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters A.u. • ; 747 Midland Bank Buildingk P' '•••' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone 1612) 338-3530 20 1 Chanhassen? 2 A Yes. 3. Q All of them? 4 A No. 5 Q Would you identify which ones do? 6 A Lake Minnewashta is the only one which currently has 7 an approved public access. 3 Q Okay. Does Lotus Lake have private docks on the lake? 9 A Yes, it does. 10 Q Do the other lakes have private docks as well? 11 A Yes. 12 Q The City of Chanhassen has a zoning ordinance, and a 13 comprehensive plan which regulates the development of 14 property within the City; is that correct? 15 A That is correct. 16 Q Would you explain to me in general the procedure that 17 the City would follow with respect to an application is to developland• and let's use for purposes of our 19 example here, a 52-unit townhouse development, what 20 would be the -- could you take us through the general 21 procedure that the City would follow in reviewing a 22 proposal to develop that type of project? 23 A The applicant would be required to complete various 24 documents, and to submit those to the Planning De- 25 partment, who would work with the developer and process HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3. Q 4 5 A 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 1 A Q A 21 that application through the Planning Commission, and City Council, including necessary public hearings. Would a project involve study by any of these committees, and how does that work? To the best of my knowledge, the only committee that would review the application would be the Planning Commission. The Planning Department handles those applications, schedules, meetings. If there are other committees that would be required to review those, that information would be available through the Planning Department. I do not know. Do you, as the City Manager, attend Planning Commission, meetings, and make recommendations with respect to specific project proposals? i I do not. Who would be doing that; would that be someone from the Planning Department? I The Planning Department is -- the Planning Department Supervisor is Scott Martin. There are a number of committees and commissions that they provide staff support for.. He would delegate the person who would work with the Planning Commission on a particular issue. Do you attend City Council meetings and make recommen- dations to the Council with respect to specific projects•? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters ILI ,•,y 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401��ry- ? R.uodl.idyl Phone 16121 338-3530 1 A 2 3- Q 4 5 6 A 7 Q 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Q A Q A Q A 10 22 I attend City Council meetings, and I do make recom- mendations to the City Council; yes. All right. When did you first become aware of the proposal by Derrick to develop the property in the Lotus Lake? I cannot recall. What's the first time that you recall being involved with respect to that project? I would anticipate that I was involved during 1979. I cannot remember a particular issue. I know the item was before the City Council in 1980. Were you involved in any of the Planning Commission meetings, to the best of your knowledge? I was not. As I understand it, this was first presented as a planned residential development, or a P.R.D.; does that square with your memory? I believe so, yes. And, there was a request for rezoning and subdivision and conditional use permit? The development would have involved a rezoning. I cannot recall anything regarding the conditional use permit. Okay. Directing your attention to the minutes of the City Council of April 7th, 1980, page 4, and I ask if HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered Professional Reporters _ i R,9 •,y, 747 Midland Bank Building d ^ Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401� R •�prt e Phone 1612) 338-3530 11 . 2_-1 3- 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 23 you would take a look at that and see if that re- freshes your memory as to this project? A (Witness reading document.) Yes. Q All right. And, could you just summarize for us what was before the Council, and generally the action that was taken at that time? MR. KNUTSON: The minutes speak for themselves, but if you would like him to summarize, I have no objection. MR. DIETZEN: I'm just asking him to summarize them. THE WITNESS: The item before the City Council on April 7th was rezoning subdivision preliminary development plan for Derrick nand Company. It included 52 residential lcts. There were two motions. A first motion failed. It gives no reasons for why it failed, I cannot recall it. The second motion was approved for rezoning to P1, approve the 52-lot preliminary development plan with six conditions. That motion was approved. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q All right. From a planning standpoint, to the benefit of a layman, the proposal was to rezone the subject property; correct? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters ILI 141 Midland Bank Building 11 t _ y •'••_�^• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 { a•`d = Phone 1612) 338-3530 3 4 5 6 7 8 A Q A Q 9 10 A 11 12 13 14 Q 15 16 A 17 Q 18 19 20 21 A 22 Q 23 24 25 24 That's correct. And, what is the significance of the subdivision and preliminary development plan review; what does that mean from a planning standpoint? Would you repeat the question. Yes. From a planning standpoint, what does -- could you explain to us what the subdivision and preliminary development plan review means; in other words, what was being done there? The City Council was approving a development plan which would reflect lots, and approving the rezoning for that particular development plan subject to the i applicant meeting a number of conditions. In effect, is this a preliminary approval subject to certain conditions? Yes. Okay. And so, apparently there had been an application, for rezoning, and there had been a -- the application also included the subdivision and preliminary develop- ment plan review; is that correct? That's correct. Okay. Now, after this preliminary approval, could you just outline for me in general, under the Chanhassen zoning ordinance, what would be the next steps that a developer would need to follow to proceed to develop a HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES T: Registered Professional Reporters A� 747 Midland Bank Building f� o,m...a. Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 4'?o+° Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 1 ES 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 25 property? A I find difficulty in responding in that the Planning Department, again, is responsible to see an application through from beginning to end. Your question is asking me for the detailed steps that would be followed, and I do not become involved in those. The general process would be for the applicant to complete the conditions as listed by the Council. The Planning Department would review those to insure that those conditions have been met, and would re -submit it back to the City Council for final plan approval, �? All right. (Whereupon a brief recess was taken.) BY MR. DIETZEN: Q All right. Mr. Ashworth, directing your attention to the Planning Commission minutes for 1980, for the July 9th of 1980, page 6: the minutes reflect final de- velopment plan review by the Planning Commission as of that date; correct? MR. KNUTSON: What date is that again? MR. DIETZEN: July 9th, 1980. THE WITNESS: Okay. The minutes I'm look- ing at are dated July 9th, 1980, and they do encompass a final development plan review of the HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES ILI 2 Registered Professional Reporters R.91,° � 747 Midland Bank Building P'O'°�•'°^•' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 R° Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3- 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 mri Fox Chase Development, Derrick. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q The action taken was to approve the final development plan subject to staff recommendations; correct? MR. KNUTSON: Do they approve or recommend approval? THE WITNESS: The wordage is to accept the proposed Fox Chase plat dated May 12th, 1980, revised May 22, 1980. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q All right. And then directing your attention to the City Council minutes of July 21, 1980, page 2, and they also reflect do they reflect action taken on the Fox Chase Project? A That is correct, Q And, what was the action taken? A Councilman Neveaux moved to approve the final de- velopment plan based upon the configuration of 52 lots as presented to the City Council April 7th, 1980. Four voted in favor, Mayor Hobbs voted against. Q All right. Now, what does that mean: the final de- velopment plan approval? A City Council is again approving the development plan for Fox Chase subject to a number of conditions. Q From a planning standpoint, if the developer is able HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters ILI 747 Midland Bank Building14 R ••• �An"t• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 R.Rp t.• ���°°° Phone (612) 338-3530 -n,• w 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 27 to meet those conditions, can he then go forward and develop the property? MR. KNUTSON: As far as you are asking for a legal conclusion, I'm going to object. MR. DIETZEN: I'm asking for his under- standing of the ordinance, how it would work. MR. KNUTSON: Obviously there has to be a development contract and other paperwork put together at this point. MR. DIETZEN: Well, I'm just asking him for his understanding. THE WITNESS: If the developer meets the conditions, completes the platting requirements, again, development contract, et cetra, he should be able to move forward, yes. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q What are the platting requirements, what does that A 0 mean? Submittal of the final plat, which would encompass any changes to that plat required as part of the develop- ment plan approval, and utility street work, et cetra. What is the -- is the development contract an adminis- trative function that's done by your people with the developer to put together a development contract that's, consistent with the action of the City Counc iRegistered HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Professional Reporters gro y • 747 Midland Bank Building P�•••� • Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 R•pon.r Phone l6121 338-3530 28 1 A City staff submits the conditions as they have develope 2 through Planning Commission, and City Council to the 3 City Attorney's office for a drafting of that develop- ment 4 contract. 5 Q All right. Then, that development. contract is then 6 finalized consistent with the action of the City 7 Council and subsequently approved by the City Council; g is that correct? 9 MR. KNUTSON: Are you suggesting that the 10 City Council has no more input in the develop- 11 ment contract -- 12 MR. DIETZEN: No, that it would come back 13 to them, and that they would then review and 14 approve it. 15 MR. KNUTSON: Or make changes and approve 16 it? 17 THE WITNESS: Yes. The staff preparers lg through the City Attorney's office, a draft 19 development contract, which is believed to in-- 20 elude those actions taken by the City Council 21 to date. 22 BY MR. DIETZEN: 23 Q All right. Now, those minutes are as of ,duly 21st of 24 1980. Let's stop at that point, Mr. Ashworth, and 1 25 would like to ask you: what is your recollection of rr- r HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building 1 KIr vMinneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Vi .oa..�o�.� R­Phone t612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 A 6 7 3 9 Q 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 A Q A 20 Q 21 22 A 23 Q 24 25 A 29 your involvement or participation with respect to the project as of that date? My participation was the same as other projects. I act in a coordinating position for all of the depart- ments, and will review items as they have developed through Planning Commission, or other commissions, and other input received in submitting the item to the City Council. Specifically, what is your -- do you recall participat- ing in any staff review in connection with the project as of that date? I had prepared one or more memorandums from my office to the City Council regarding this item. Whether it occurred on that date or not, I'm not sure. 1 All right. Did you make a recommendation with respect to the project as of that time? The minutes reflect that the conditions included the City Manager's report dated July 17th, 1980. 1 cannot recall that document. Whatever recommendations you made would be contained in that report, or that memorandum; is that correct? That's correct. All right. Do you recall attending any meetings with the developer, Derrick, with respect to the project? I had numerous meetings with the developer during the LI 1 HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Pr . ,• i Registered Professional Reporters A.a., • 747 Midland Bank Building N' ^^•' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 ; A•Von •i Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2- 3- 4 5 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 30 course of the project, yes. Q All right. Can you separate them in terms of time line, when they occurred? A No, I cannot. Q All right. Would it be easier for me to just ask you your recollection of the meetings, then, and you can tell me what sequence you recall them occurring? A If you would like. Q Okay. Let's do it that way. Would you tell us about what meetings you recall? A May I ask for clarification? Q Certainly. A Meetings of what? Q Meetings that you had with Derrick, or representatives of Derrick in connection with the project? MR. KNUTSON: You don't mean City Council meetings? MR. DIETZEN: No. MR. KNUTSON: Okay. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Go ahead. A I remember several meetings regarding that the develop- ment contract. That was subsequent to all of this action. Q Do you recall any meetings prior to that? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES .Y Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building v'°'•"'°^•' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401a Rr p°n. Phone 1612) 338-3530 1 2 3- 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 31 A I know that there were several meetings that occurred during the 1980, 181 process that involved attempting to resolve the question of the conditions. I cannot come out with specific dates of meetings between myself and the developer. Q Why don't you tell us your recollection of what occurre at those meetings, who was present, and summarize what occurred? A I remember one meeting with -- I believe it's two meetings with Dave Sellergren and myself and Mayor Hamilton to discuss the development contract language. I recall a meeting between myself, buss Larson and Dave Sellergren regarding the initial preparation wark on the development contract. I recall at least three meetings with Kurt Laughinghouse to discuss issues that were occurring at that point in time regarding the development itself. I cannot recall, again, the specific dates, or even the specific nature of those.. Q All .right. Let's take the first meeting between the Mayor, yourself.and Dave Sellergren concerning the development contract: can you capsulize for us what that discussion involved in terms of issues or matters that were in contention? A The development contract had been generally formulated by City staff. It had been presented back to the City HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES s Registered Professional Reporters a 747 Midland Bank Building S °ro'• •rM'•' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401� O.Yi ' F•pd. Phone (612) 338-3530 ' 1 2 3- 4 5 6 7 8 9 Q 10 A 11 12 13 14 15 16 Q 17 A 18 19 Q 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Q A 32 Council to resolve and review parts of that development contract. There were items within the development contract, or as part of the approval that were not clear, or had not been spoken to as part of the initial reviews. The City Council acted to request that Mayor Hamilton and myself meet with the developers repre- sentative to put those into a final form, or at least prepare some form of recommendation. What were the issues that were involved? Almost every section of the development contract was discussed as a part of those meetings. The developer questioned certain sections regarding types of security timing for when improvements would be completed, the value of the trail easement, the requirement for park dedication and dockage. What was the discussion with respect to dockage? How many docks could be considered in light of the Council's general action to preserve the wetland area. Was there some discussion that no docks could be per- mitted? Yes. And, what was the basis? I assume someone from the City made that statement; who was that? My response was in terms of -- during the course of this project, one or more people have made the statement HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters _ 747 Midland Bank Building , ( n•u�+•, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 Q 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 A Q A 15 16 Q 17 is 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 1 A Q 33 of no docks. A part of the citizen input, I believe, requested that no docks be installed. I cannot re- member any council member, or any staff member who took a position of no docks. Was a position of -no docks taken by the City during the course of this meeting between Mr. Sellergren, yourself and Mayor Hamilton? To the best of my knowledge, no. Then, as I understand it, at least the nature of that meeting, the discussion of the dock issue at that meeting involved the question of how many docks would be allowable; is that correct? The meeting concentrated on the area of open water that existed within the plat; and, ,yes, as part of that, docks were discussed. But, neither you nor Mayor Hamilton took the position that no docks would be allowable at that meeting? I cannot recall that statement ever being made. All right. Are you aware of any City ordinance that regulates docks? MR. KNUTSON: You are asking for a legal conclusion, and as far as you are doing that, I'm going to object. Obviously we have a subdivision ordinance, a comprehensive plan, the zoning ordinance. They all bear on the HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered f'ro%essional Reporters R•a 747 Midland Bank Building °'�'•° •' Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401 R.pae Phone (612f 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 M[� 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 34 subject; but, if Mr. Ashworth wants to answer further, he can try. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Well, my question is: are you aware of any City ordinance that regulates docks? A Only through the platting process as part of the sub- division ordinances. Q Could you show me in the ordinances where that is contained? A No, I cannot. Q And, why is that? A The ability of the -- Strike that. The -- or, let me start over. The subdivision process is administered through the Planning Department. I have been informed through that department, and/or City Attorney's office that the City does have the right to control dockage as a part of existing City ordinances. I have not personally found it necessary to go through those detailed ordinances. Q Okay. Well, let me just ask'you this question: based upon your knowledge of the City zoning ordinance, does it have a section that specifically refers to docks to Your knowledge? A To the best of my knowledge, it does not. Q And, does the section relating to planned unit develop HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone 1612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 35 ment have any specific reference to docks, to your knowledge? A I do not know if it does or if it does not contain sections regarding dockage. Q All right. Has the City made a study with respect to the dock issue? A Yes, they have. Q And, what is the status of that study? A That study has resulted in a preliminary ordinance be- ing drafted. Q Has that ordinance been approved by the City Council? A It has. Q When was it approved? A I believe in the spring, summer of 1982. Q Can you look at the Council minutes for that time period and show me where that was approved? A There has to be over two thousand issues in this document. If you would allow me to get another file I could --- Q Okay, i A -- I could more closely approximate that time, or get its Q Sure. Whichever would be the quickest way for you to do it, feel free. (Whereupon the witness left the f1 �ti HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES r Registered Professional Reporters p 747 Midland Bank Building �a•••w•Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 P• M• Pk- is»t 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 36 room and a short recess was taken.) BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Mr. Ashworth, you have directed my attention to the Council minutes of February 8th, 1982; are those the minutes that you were referring to? A That is correct. Q All right. And, that, in effect, was a preliminary approval by the City Council subject to review by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and then final review by the City to be made at a later date? A Action was to approve the proposed water surface ordinance in preliminary form, and to direct City staff to forward the ordinance to DNR for their review and approval. Q Okay. What's the status of the proposed ordinance? A It is back to the City Council, and is scheduled for a public hearing this month. Q As of this date, the ordinance has not been formally adopted, and enacted; is that correct? A The Council approved an ordinance in February of 1982; DNR rejlected that ordinance. The DNR has approved a modified ordinance. That modified ordinance is back to the City Council. Q All right. Is there a so-called water surface usage ordinance in effect at the present time then? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES x� i Registered T'ro/essional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone 1612) 338-3530 I 11 A 2 Q 3 4 5 6 11 A 7 Q 8 9 10 11 12 1.3 14 15 16 17 18 19 A A Q A 20 21 22 23 Q 24 25 37 No. Thank you. Now, I believe you indicated that the discussion that you had with the developer regarding the dockage issue involved how many docks could be considered in light of the wetlands; is that correct? That is correct. And, what -- essentially what position has the City staff taken in these negotiations on the development contract as to how many docks would be appropriate? City staffs position has primarily been to provide the technical information requested by the Council, and as part of these meetings. Do you have an opinion as to how many docks would be appropriate? No. During the course of the meetings with Mayor Hamilton, did he exprese an opinion as to how many docks would be appropriate? I believe there were several counterpositions dis- cussed, but each of those were subject to other con- ditions and final approval by Mr. Derrick and final approval by City Council. Okay, With those contingencies, can you get right down to the point and tell me what the numbers were that were being discussed? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building P ro.•alonel ' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 1 2 3 4 "5 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 kam 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 38 A One of the proposals consisted of one dock that would be accessible for approximately ten lots as a common dock; one proposal encompassing two docks; one en- compassing three; one encompassing five; one encom- passing ten. Q Which of those proposals were made by Mayor Hamilton? A The proposals offered by the City included one, two and three docks. Q By process of elimination, Derrick was at five or ten; is that correct? A That is correct. Q Now, you indicated that the consideration had to do with wetlands; what was the -- who was concerned about the wetlands? MR. KNUTSON: Are we still zeroing in on this one conversation? MR. DIETZEN: Yes. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q You can open it up, if you would like, Mr. Ashworth; if there were other discussions that you feel would be appropriate, I want to speed up the deposition, and get to the point here if we can. A Mayor Hamilton, acting in behalf of the City Council. Q What was the concern? A The location of docks as it would relate to the wetland HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters x. 747 Midland Bank Building R pis [.i vJ P[••�•Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 `Vow", � p•°� • Phone (612) 338-3530 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 81 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A A Q A Q A Q A 39 area, and conservation easement. Can you elaborate on that, please? Through the development process, the Planning Com- mission Council reviewed the project in terms of a drainage basin and conservation area. That conserva- tion area would basically encompass the entire shore land area. There were no specific -- through that initial process, the specific number of docks had not been developed as to whether any could be included within that conservation area, or several. Did anyone from City staff make a study of the wet -- lands and prepare a report? City staff drew upon various experts in terms of submittal of information regarding that conservation area to the City Council. Who were those, quote, experts, close quote? A Mr. Ken Karr from the State Department of Natural Resources. I believe the fisheries, U.S. Fish and Wildlife? U.S. Fish and Wildlife, correct. It's Mr. Ken Karr. I'm not quite sure of his position. Wherever he's at. Okay, who else? I believe a Professor Wellar who, I think, was associated with the University of Minnesota at that time. I believe that there were other contacts made HERRERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES r� ♦ Registered Professional Reporters x, 747 Midland Bank Building nod �� Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone 16121 338-3530' 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 40 with the Fresh Water Biological Institute. I am not sure as to specific names, or whether those parties were either summarized in reports, or had actually submitted the documents. Q Is it your understanding that this information was in some way transmitted to the City Council? A Yes. Q And, that would be by way of report? A That's correct. Q Some written material in any event? A That's correct. Q Whatever written material there is, would be contained in the documents you've provided here today; is that correct? i A That's correct. Q Okay. is there anyone on City staff that has expertise) with respect to wetlands? A The City Planner, Bob Waibel has been a coordinator in terms of obtaining information from outside experts for the past four to five year period of time; and through that process, has accumulated reasonable knowledge 1n that area. Q Do you consider yourself to be an expert on wetlands? A I do not. Q Do you know how many acres of wetlands are involved? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES ; r Registered Professional Reporters A 747 Midland Bank Building a �••• �• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 9 ..�.: , �u,�n 1 A 2. 3 Q 4 A 5 Q 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Q A Q A Q A Q 4l No. The primary discussion was really dealing with the conservation area. 11 And, the -- in the so-called conservation easement? That's correct. Was it your understanding that these docks were somehow going to destroy wetlands? There were those who contended that position, yes. In your opinion, is the placement of docks going to destroy wetlands if there are ten docks placed there? I was never asked for my opinion, and I have not formulated one. All right. Who are those that contend that wetlands will be destroyed? You use the term, quote, those, close quote? I recall citizen participation throughout the project that involved that type of testimony. Any of the individuals you identified: Ken Karr, Professor Wellar, or someone from the Fresh Water Biological Institute, did any of those people advise you that wetlands would be destroyed as a result of the placement of docks on the lake? Each of those experts cautioned the City in terms of activity within wetland areas. Well, let's take them one at a time. Ken Karr wrote a couple of letters which, I think, I've seen. Are HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters R.� 747 Midland Bank Building o,R'• �a'l Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 R• wl• Ph- 16;1 91 IzA_1r1n 42 those the reports that you are referring to? 1 2 A Yes. 3 Q Okay. And, I don't believe I've seen anything from 4 Professor Wellar. Is it your belief that he indicates 5 in his letter, or written report that this project, or 6 the placement of docks will result in the destruction 7 of some wetlands? 8 A I know the City has used the -- or consulted with Dr. 9 Wellar. I do not know that he was asked on this 10 project. I cannot recall a letter. If there was one, I 11 it would be in the project files. 12 Q All right. You have no specific recollection of a 13 letter from him, or any document from him, but �- 14 A I do not. 15 Q All right. How about someone from the Fresh Water f 16 i Biological Institute; is it your belief that someone 17 from that group indicated that the placement of docks, 18 the ten docks would result in the destruction of some 19 wetlands? 20 A I cannot recall any specific piece of correspondence, 21 I believe that our Planning Department had informed me 22 that they had received -- that they had consulted with 23 the Fresh Water Biological Institute. 24 Q Who would that have been? 25 A Bob Waibel. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i [ILI Registered Professional Reporters nw ,• 747 Midland Bank Building P o ••• «• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 a. co ati.,.,o 1a19% �oa_qr,4n 1 2 3 .4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18. It_m 20 21 22 23 24 25 43 Q You don't know whether there is a written report from the Fresh Water Biological Institute; is that correct? A I do not. Q Okay. Well, what exactly was the concern about the placement of docks in light of the wetlands? MR. KNUTSON: Whose concern? MR. DIETZEN: The City's concern. MR. KNUTSON: I don't want to fence with you, but -- MR. DIETZEN: As expressed -- MR. KNUTSON: What did the City Council say? MR. DIETZEN: As expressed by Mayor Hamilton during these meetings. MR. KNUTSON: Okay. THE WITNESS: The standard development contract section has defined a conservation area.to include no structures, no alterations of land, et tetra. The wetland discussion: was a part of the discussion, but the discussion was in terms of defining if the conservation area could, or should be used in terms of dockage. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Well, let me approach it this way: was the concern that these docks would somehow impair the wetlands, or kl� HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building P ••• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 j F•o�., Phone (612) 338-3530 `&N 1 •-2 .3 A 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 IE 16 17 A 18 Q 19 20 A 21 22 23 24 oil mok 44 -- I don't understand what exactly the concern was, and -- .As.I understand it, the conservation area encompassed both wetlands, as well as the low area including a drainage basin, that the entire question was one of defining how that conservation area, including the wetlands, drainage area would or should be used by the developer. Was there a concern about the usage by the people who would buy these townhouses, assuming the project went forward; was there a concern about their usage of the lake? Mayor Hamilton, nor the City Council, to the best of my knowledge, ever expressed any such statement. Has the City attempted to regulate docks on Lotus Lake in the past? Yes. What project are you aware of where the City regulated the placement of docks? Riekurt Addition, Colonial Grove, East Lotus Lake Estates, Sunrise Hills. Bloomberg Companies has a plat, or submitted a plat that in the review by Planning Commission had encompassed that type of re- view. It was never consummated. Did the project go forward? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building a.�,.,..., 9 P Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 its 1 2 3- 4 '5 6 7 8 X 10 11 12 13 14 15 ION 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 45 A No. Q Does the City have any ordinance that sets forth any objective standards with respect to the number, or the size of docks? MR. KNUTSON: As far as you are asking for a legal conclusion, I'm going to object. MR. DIETZEN: I'm asking whether he's aware of any such ordinance that sets forth any objective standards with respect to the regula- tion of the size or number of docks. THE WITNESS: Again, the administration of the subdivision ordinances is under the Planning Department. I do not become involved with those. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q All right. Are you aware of any document of the City, or ordinance, or any other document of the City that sets forth any objective standards with respect to regulating the size or the number of docks? A The City Attorney's office has informed me that the subdivision ordinance allows for the control- and placement of docks. I do not know the specific regu- lation, or the basis for his opinion. Q All right. Are you personally aware of anything in the subdivision -- was it the subdivision ordinance? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered Professional Reporters x' R.ys: •r •y 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 R•.- .a j Phone (612) 338-3530 V��! A 46 Yes, the zoning and subdivision ordinance. 1 Z Q Not the P.U.D. ordinance? 3-MR. KNUTSON: That's part of the zoning 4 ordinance. 5 BY MR. DIETZEN: 6 Q Part of the zoning ordinance, all right. Are you 7 aware of anything in the P.U.D. section, or for that 8 matter let's say anything in the zoning ordinance that 9 sets forth objective standards with respect to the 10 regulation of the size or the number of docks? 11 A Personally, no. 12 Q Going to Riekurt's Addition, do you recall the number 13 of units involved in that project, or generally the 14 size of the project? 15 A Seven or nine lots. 16 Q And, was some type of dock situation agreed to in that 17 project? i 18 A Yes. 19 Q Was that set forth in a developer's agreement? 20 A Yes. 21 Q How many --- can you tell me what was agreed to as far 22 as dockage? 23 A One dock for the existing parcel that's already there, 24 one dock for the remaining lots, and some form of 25 special situation existed where they modified that to i HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters R p747 Midland Bank Building 7- . wt P, c11.1�s:: lmal Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 s R.pon., Phnno ia19� 11a_Ir1n �! 1 2 Q 3 A 4 Q 5 6 7 S 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 I8M Im 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A 47 include two; Z believe. So, how many total; three? Three. And, Riekurt's Addition is located across the bay from the proposed development? That is correct. All right. Where is Colonial Grove located? On the east side of Lotus Lake. How large a project is that? Approximately a hundred and forty dwelling units. And, were docks agreed to in that project? Yes. And, was that set forth in a developer's agreement? i Yes. 1' mean, a developer's contract? Yes. All right. And, what is your recollection of what was agreed to? One dock. Is that an outlot, common dock? Yes. What was the size of that? There is 44 lots in the first addition. The remaining development plan encompassed an approximate 90 to a hundred additional units. - ' HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building y i J Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 .RY RDon.r Dl.nno IR171 ']70 7C7n 1. Q 2 3' 4 5 6 7 8 A Q A Q A 9 10 Q 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 IA Q A Q A Q A Q A 23 Q 24 A 25 48 Well, the one dock would be a common dock for the hundred and forty approximate units? When it was first approved, yes. And, has that situation changed? Yes. And, what is it presently? The subdivider in conjunction with the homeowners petitioned the Council to modify that to be one dock for the 44 lots. And, do the remaining approximate 90 units have access to the lake? No. All right. Vdhere is East Lotus Lake Addition located? That's the one you just asked me about, Did I? I'm sorry. Or did you --- I asked you about Colonial Grove. I'm sorry. My entire response was regarding East Lotus Lake. Okay. Let's go to Colonial Grove then? Colonial Grove abutts East Lotus Lake Estates, and is south of that; so, it's on the east side of the lake How large a project? It's an older project. I'm not sure. I would say approximately 200 -- maybe I'm high. A hundred to HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Arofessional Reporters x. 747 Midland Bank Building ''�'••*'°^•' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 N•p<uter Y_ • Phone (612) 336-3530 a 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14_ 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A Q A IF A 49 two hundred, I'm not sure. Is there a developer's contract? I do not believe there was one for the original de- velopment. They carried out additional platting under which, I believe, there was a development contract regulating dockage. And, what was agreed to with respect to that project, Colonial Grove? To the best of my knowledge, one; but, I 6-- it's difficult for me to remember that project. It's been several years. When was that development contract consummated; do you recall? T would believe, or I believe the `76 through '79 time ; frame. Q All right. And, it was that one dock to serve one to two hundred units? A I believe it was for the second phase of the develop- ment, and I do not believe that it encompassed the first phase development, Q Did the first phase of the development have access to the lake, then? A I believe they do. There is no development contract for that earlier development. Q Is it an outlot, the dock situation? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered f'ro/'essiona! Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building P,�•.,�.•Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 338-3530 11 21 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q 21 22 A 23 Q 24 25 Yes. All right. How about Sunrise Hills? Again, one to two hundred dwelling unit Where is it located? The south and west portion of Lotus Lake. And, was there a development contract entered into? I believe so, yes. And, what was agreed to with respect to docks? One dock, and no mooring. Did that involve an outlot then? Yes. And, you said "no mooring"; meaning what? Meaning no boats are allowed to remain overnight, either at the dock, or adjacent to it. All right, Are you aware of any others at Lotus Lake? I believe the deed of the lakeshore property to the City from the Carver Beach owners encompassed no dock- ing as a part of that of that deed. Do the private residences, the other private residence around the lake, then, have docks that have not been regulated by the City, to the best of your knowledge? Yes. Going to the other lakes in Chanhassen, are you aware of any other projects that involved the regulation of docks by the City of Chanhassen? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES r Registered Professional Reporters ;f 747 Midland Bank Building 7 R sy:s : •:h . r�o•=. Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 p•°�'• Phone (612Y 338-3530 1 2. 3. 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 51 A Yes. Q All right. Could you identify those for me, please? I've got the list of lakes you gave me; would it be easiest if I just went through them for you, starting with Riley Lake? A All properties on Lake Riley were prior to subdivision ordinances of the City. Those are all private docks. Q How about Rice Marsh? A There are no -- there are no -- to the best of my knowledge there are no docks, nor any form of develop- ment on that lake. Q And, Susan? A Lake Susan has private docks for about one-fourth of it. Q None of which were regulated by the City? A I believe they were all prior to -- they were all in- corporated during the township days. Q flow about Christmas Lake? A Christmas Lake has one development with a --- Christmas Acres, I believe. Q And, Christmas Acres, how many units involved, and are there any docks? A I know there was a development contract. I believe its controlled dockage. I cannot recall the number of docks or lots. ILHERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building PiW•••w•i Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 �. • p'Pp Phone (612) 338-3530 �' 1 2 3- 4 5 6 7 8 f A Q A Q 9 A 10 Q 11 12 A 13 Q 14 15 A 16 17 Q 18 A 19 20 21 22 23 24 2-r C7 A LF 52 All right. I assume that all of these development contracts are part of the City records? That is correct. And so, if we asked for them, you would be able to locate them? Yes, we should be able to. okay. So, it would be your understanding that the Christmas Acres was regulated by the City? Yes. right. Any other docks that were regulated by the All 13 City at Christmas Lake? No. There are, however, docks on the lake that were not regulated by the City, then;correct? I've never walked the Christmas property, Christmas II Lake property; I'don't know. I How about Lake Lucy? There is no coma -on outlot. It's a City park that abutts the lake in that area; but, there is no -- no dockage as a. part of that. Was there any development, or dockage on the Lake Lucy, them? I believe for those lots abutting Lake Lucy they have private docks. And, were those regulated by the City? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES -Y- JJ Registered Professional Reporters 'r 747 Midland Bank Building 14W41, a.."•'°' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 .� ,. Phone (612) 338-3530 A 53 I do not know. That's another plot that goes back 1 2 several years. 3 Q Are there any developments on Lake Lucy? 4 A Yes. 5 Q Which -- could you identify them for me? 6 A There is only one: Greenwood Shores, which encompasses 7 approximately one-fourth of the lake frontage. 8 Q All right. Do you know whether there was a development 9 contract for that? 10 A No. I do not know. Again, it was several years prior 11 to the '70's that that was platted. 12 Q It has docks? 13 A Now, did I make a mistake inhere? We are going throug,`i 14 the same set of questions I just answered? 15 Q Okay. I think I misunderstood you, and I'm trying to 16 make sure I'm clear. 17 A Okay. 18 Q Does Greenwood Shores, that project, have docks? 19 A Yes. 20 Q Okay. You don't know whether there is a development 21 contract, because it's quite a few years back; is that 22 right? 23 A That's correct. 24 Q All right. How about Lake Ann? 25 A No common outlot. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES r Registered Professional Reporters .x- 747 Midland Bank Building { Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 R'°' Phone (612) 338-3530 1 Q 2 A 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1B 10 A 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Q A A Q A 54 Could you explain that; I'm not following you? You had been going through those developments that en- compassed a common outlot as part of the lake. I was following your same -- Oh, I'm just asking as we go through each lake whether any of them have developments that were -- the docks of which were regulated by the City; and my question for Lake Ann is: are there developments on there, and if so, were docks regulated by the City? The City's plan for Lake Ann is to acquire the entire lakeshore. We own at least half of that at the present time. There was one other development proposal that required the dedication of the lakeshore. That was Oakmont. It did not proceed. It was approved by the City Council, and the developer could have proceeded.: He did not. Were docks involved? No, because it would have been a dedication to the City. Are there any docks on Lake Ann? No. I'm sorry, the City maintains two docks as part of the swimming area. How about Lake Minnewashta, are there any developments with docks on the lake? Yes. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered Professional Reporters F 747 Midland Bank Building P�'•••«• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 , A•'a •, Phone 16121 338-3530� 1 2 3 -4 5 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 55 Q Have any of those been regulated by the City? A Yes. Q Which ones? A Most of them pre -date my time; so, I'm not familiar with the form of regulation that occurred. They all have similar names, and so it's difficult for me -- I believe -- let me do it this way: there is Minnewashta Heights, Minnewashta Manor, Minnewashta -- there are at least five plats in that area that have the name of Minnevrashta something. Two of those are regulated in terms of a common beach lot. Q Is there a developer's agreement? A I'm not sure. Q Are there any developments -- well, with respect to the! other three plats, do you know whether they are regu- lated? A I believe one is. I believe the other two are not. I thought of another, and that's Trolls Glen; that is regulated, Q So, that means that three are regulated -- four are regulated, two are not; have I got it right? A There are more additions on the lake than we have i listed. I believe one other addition -- and, Y believe it is one other addition -- on the northwestern portion of the lake, to the best of my knowledge, was regulated. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters i 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, •••�•nneapolis, Minnesota 55401 A• •, Phone (612) 338-3530 1 ,2 3' 4 5 0 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 MGO 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 -0, Q Which one is that? A The narne escapes me. Our Planning Department would know. Most of the subdivisions on Lake Minnewashta are quite old, and I really have very little knowledge on them. Q All right. Letts go to Little Saint Joe? A No development. Q In terms of the developments that have been regulated by the City on the dock issue, and a developer's agreement entered into, would that have been dune by the Planning Department? A Yes. Q All right, MR. KNUTSON: Anything in conjunction wit: your lawyers, I assume, and in conjunction with the City Council? THE WITNESS: The draft portion. MR. DIETZEN: Sure. THE WITNESS: Is back through the Plannin Department. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q All right. What's Scott's last name? A Martin. Q And, he would have been overseeing that activity in terms of the drafting? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building p prir •rN p,or••.r„.r Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 N•pMler 1 2 3 .4 5 6 7 a X 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Ah A That is correct. Q All right. Do you know how long he's been with the City? A Approximately two years. Q Who is his predecessor? A Mark Koegler. Q How do you spell the last name; do you know? A K-o-e-g-l-e-r. Q And, what period of time was he with the City? A 1977 through 1980; maybe into 181. Late 180. Q Where is he now, if you know? A With a consulting planning engineering firm. Q In Minneapolis? A In the Twin City area. Q Do you know the name of the firm? A I do not. Q Do you knots where it's located? A Plymouth. Q What type of consulting work is it; are they planning consultants? A It is a branch office for a nationwide firm; so, they handle full range of architectural engineering, et tetra, services. I do have the name. He still does consulting work us, I just don't recall it. Q All right. As far as any records kept on the dock HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES r 'r Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building t� N.�:...:�. Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 �.• R'D° ' Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3. A .4 5 Q 6 7 8 A 9 Q 10 11 12 A 13 14 Q 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Q A Q 58 regulations, that would be the developer's contracts; is that correct? Developer contracts, covenants, and I believe in some cases actually recorded as a part of the plot. Okay. Have you made any recommendation to the City Council, or to the Mayor with respect to the dock matter involved in this lawsuit? Repeat the first part of the question. Have you made any recommendation with the Mayor or the City Council or anyone else in the City staff with respect to the dock issue involved in this lawsuit? To the best of my knowledge I have made no recommenda- tion regarding dockage. No recommendation in terms of numbers of docks or size of docks, or anything like that; correct? That's correct. And, you presently have no opinion with respect to the number of docks'or size of docks; is that correct? I I have no opinion. All right. I'm just asking that question so that if it comes time for trial, I don't want you to come in and say "I do have an opinion". MR. KNUTSON: He may have an opinion be- tween now and then. He doesn't have one now. BY MR* DIETZEN: HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES .r- Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Hg� Phone (612) 338-3530 dd M 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Q 59 Well, if you are going to have an opinion, would you let your lawyer know so that I can notify and discover that? Fine. Is that acceptable, Mr. Knutson? MR. KNUTSON: Off the record. (Discussion off the record,) BY MR. DIETZEN: Q All right. You talked about trail easement. Let's talk about the trail easement, Mr. Ashworth. What was the discussion that you had, or were aware of during these negotiations over the development contract as it would pertain to the trail easement issue? A The value of the trail, and whether it should be Im- proved or not; location as well. Q Was there any discussion about the size of the trail easement? A Yes, Q Okay. Was there a discussion regarding --- discussing the size of the easement being ten feet versus 20 feet? A Yes. Q All right. What was that discussion? A The initial planning reports and approvals through Planning Commission conflicted with the information HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building .•Q51 •,ry i PMinneapolis, Minnesota 55401�:, Phone 16121 -VAR-I5Rf) �ii, 1 2 3- 4 5 Q A 6 7 3 9 10 Q 11 12 13 14 15 16 20 21 22 23 24 25 1 A A Q v reviewed by the City Council; so, that the action taken by the City Council literally included two different widths; and our position was to try to resolve that. What was the conflict? One of the initial reports spoke to ten feet, a report back from my office spoke to 20 feet, and the engineer felt a temporary construction easement of 20 feet was needed, but a lesser amount for perpetual could be considered. Could you identify which reports you are talking about? I haven't seen them. I'm not aware of -- I'm aware of a memo that talked about a ten foot easement. What document refers to a 20 foot easement? One of the mer:_orandums from myself to ,the City Council I i as part of the final approval. I don't know the specific date. It would be in that Project File. What was the nature of the discussion in terms of the trail easement during these development contract negotiations? I don't understand the question. ) Well, was there an agreement to resolve that issue or not? A The initial staff draft of the development contract identified the conflict that existed regarding the trail easement, value question, and I believe location. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Qz, Registered f rofessional Reporters N747 Midland Bank Building °' ^•' Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401�'° N•N •.1Jq Phone (612) 338-3530 '�K 1 2 3-1 41 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 1 Q A Q A Q A Q A Q 61 Again, the Council rather than attempting to resolve those differences at a Council meeting, instructed the Mayor and myself to work with the developer to resolve that. Was there any resolution during those negotiations? The City Council -- there was no agreement reached be- tween the developer and the City in terms of the entire development contract. The position of the City was.adopted by the City Council when they approved that the development contract. That included the City't position regarding that trail. And, what sized easement does that contain? i I can't remember. I believe it was in terms of a I cannot remember. I All. right. It would be in the development agreement language? It would be in the one as passed by the City Counc:i.l. Okay. Now, that was the action that was taken after the lawsuit was commenced in terms of time frame? At the same time. All right. I'm showing you just a plat for purposes of ill.ust.ratione it's Exhibit D -- for the record -- i to the complaint, dated June 15th, 1981. Now, can you show me just for illustrative purposes where this trail easement would be located? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building E p pia i•.M po•••�•Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 p•`� Phone 1612) 338-3530 62 1 MR. KNUTSON: While you are thinking, why 2 don't we take about a 30-second break. I'll be 3- right back. 4 MR. DIETZEN: Okay. 5 (Whereupon a brief recess was 6 taken.) 7 BY MR. DIETZEN: 8 Q Trail easement -- do you see on Exhibit D7 9 A All right. The location of the trail easement was 10 another area that was in -- that was not resolved 11 through the preliminary y process. The original ease- 12 ment generally followed the shoreline area, and was j 13 to come up to Pleasant View on a back lot line. I'm 14 not sure if it was through the developer request: and I 15 through subsequent meetings with Park and Recreation, � 16 but the easement area was re -defined to encompass over 17 the top of the sanitary sewer easement through here, 18 come up to Fox Path,, and adjacent to the read up to I 19 Pleasant View. (Witness indicating;) 20 Q Was that to be dedicated to the public? 21 A Yes. 22 MR. KNUTSON: As far as you are asking for 23 a legal conclusion I'm g going to object, but, if 24 he elects to offer an opinion -- I guess he 25 already has -- HERRERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building 1 o ••• �^• - Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone 1612) 338-3530 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 011 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 63 BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Was it your understanding that this trail easement would be something the public could walk over and utilize? A That is correct. Q And, the dispute there centered around the location as well as the size of the easement; is that correct? A To the best of my knowledge, as we approached the final] discussions in the development contract, the location did not appear to be a problem. It was whether -•- what' the value was. Q Value or size? i A Both. Q Okay. When you say "value", ghat do you mean by that? � it The developer was seeking a monetary reimbursement, or ) credit. The City's position was that that was either one, a public right-of-way, or over an existing ease i jient, and no amounts should be given. Q All, right. Now, the developer's agreement that was acted on by the City was sometime this year; wasn't it, 1983? A Yes, Q And, the process started in February of '79; correct? A I'm not sure of the date of when that started. Q Okay. Well, I'll represent to you that according to QkI HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building �, P�••��• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 k..•, Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 is 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 - -- - 64 our review of the records, February 28th, 179 was the first review by the Planning Commission? A February of when? Q '79? A Okay. Q All right. Assuming that time frame, and we also have the final development plan approval in July of 1980, then the development agreement that the City took action on at about the same time the lawsuit was commenced was in 1983. Would.you agree with me that that is an inordinate period of time for review of a project by the City? MR.. YdiLTTSON: That hasn't been establishe( Object to your characterization that it was the City's review that caused that period of time to elapse. Object to the form of the question. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Is that an inordinate time period for review of a project? MR. KNUTSON: You are asking him to draw � a conclusion. I just don't think it's a proper question, and I'll instruct him not to answer. You mischaracterized the fact. It wasn't from 1979 to 1983 that the City was reviewing this. whole thing; that's not a fact. dr&l i HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES torcd 1"Ofessiorlal Rcporlcrs 747 Midland Bank Building .MinnOuPoiis, Minnesota 55401 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 is 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 65 MR. DIETZEN: Well, he can assume facts. I can ask a question. If you want to make an objection, you can. If you are instructing him not to answer, that's a totally different thing. MR. KNUTSON: Since you've mischaracterize the facts, I just don't see how he can answer it; and I'm going to instruct him not to answer I the question. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q All right. Assuming that the Planning Commission re -- viewed the matter on February 28th, 1979, on August 3rd, 1979, August 22nd, 1979, on February 13th, 1980, the City Council reviewed it on April 7, 1980, the Planning Commission reviewed it on July 9th, 1980, the City Council reviewed it on July 21, 1980, the Planning' Commission reviewed it on December 17th, 1980, the Cite Council reviewed it on April 6th, 1981, the Planning Cormission reviewed it on April 22nd, 1981., the City Council reviewed it on May 4, 1981, the City Council reviewed it on June lst, 1981, on July 20, 1981, on August 13, 1981, and on April 5th, 1982, on April 26th,, 1982, and that the --- assuming that the developer's agreement was signed, or was passed by the City Council about the same time the lawsuit was commenced in 1983, would you agree with me that that is an inordinate I HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES 7 Pcgislered Professional Reporlcrs 747 Midland Bank Building 111P k a Minneapolis. Minnesota 55401 •� '' Phone 1612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5� 6 7 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 1 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 I. period of time for review of this project? MR. KNUTSON: Your assumptions leave out many of the facts that are pertinent in this case. You leave out the fact that the develope changed his mind several times. You leave out the fact that other -agencies had to approve it. I don't think the question is proper, and I'm going to instruct him not to answer. BY MR, DIETZEN: Q All right. What's the average period of time for re- view of planned unit development it the City of Chanhassen? A It varies significantly. Q What is the shortest period of time that a City has reviewed a planned unit development? A I would say 90 to a hundred and twenty days. Q And, what is the longest period of time that the City has reviewed a planned unit development? A Where there have been changes it has gore into a five- year period of time, Q Other than that project, are you aware of any others that have been under review for this period of time? A Yes. Q Which are they? A The East Lotus Lake Estates project. The two other ---d 1&11�HE.RBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters H•r 747 Midland flank Building - H=o•=,,.,•. Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 - •����'�,�.�' H wHor: •V Phone (612) 338-3530 4 1 ri 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1.3 14 15 16 I 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 67 three other projects: Lake Ann P.R.D., Lake Susan South P.R.D., Lake Susan West P.R.D. required extensive time reviews because of -- MR. KNUTSON: You've answered the question. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Could you complete your answer? MR. KNUTSON: He's answered the question. You asked him to list, and he's made a list. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q What were the reasons for the time frame involved in those projects? A The developer had changed his plans, or other agencies had required a change that then necessitated a re -- review by the City. Q How about the East Lotus Lake Estate; what was involvE there? A Numerous issues. Q It was a planned unit development? A Yes., it was. Q How large? A A hundred and forty-four units. Q On how many acres? A I don't recall. Q How long did it go? A Five to six years. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered frojessional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 "` '� Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 a 9 lf1 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Q A Q A IRS A Q A Q A Q A Q A 68 How about Lake Ann P.R.D.; how large a project was that, dial that involve? I cannot recall. It was large. P'.U.D=? Uh-huh How long did that last? it still has not been consummated. It started four years at the present time, and it's not complete. How about the Lake Susan; there were two projects there; right? That's correct. All right. East and West; is that what you called them? Yes. All right,. Let's take the East: how large a project? I cannot recall. All three projects were in a three to five hundred dwelling unit bracket, each. All three projects. Were there three Lake Susan projects. or are you including Lake Ann as weld.? I'm including Lake Ann as well. All right. Any other projects that you are aware of that have gone on this long? There are a number of projects that were started, and for whatever reasons have never been consummated. All, right. Why has this project gone on so long? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered f rv/i'ssivr:ri Reportcrs 747 Midland Bank Building ldiinneepolis, Minnesota 554.01 /� a Phone (6121 338-3530 1 2 3- 4 5 6 7 8 9i 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 i 69 MR, KNUTSON: You are asking him to state a conclusion, and I'm going to object on that, but he can answer if he wants. What facts do you -- MR. MR. DIETZEN: I'm asking him to testify as to any facts that you are aware of as to why this project has gone on so long? THE WITNESS: Are you instructing me not to answer? MR. KNUTSON: You can answer if you want. Cho on and give it a try. THE WITNESS: The City Attorney's office had notified me that the developer had asked that the development contract process be not started, and that was a time delay. There were various changes by the developer. The project encompassed a wetland area which fell under the purview of the Corp of Engineers. The project involved significant questions regarding terrain, transportation; those are the primary ones. BY MR DIETZEN: Q All right. When did the City tell you that the de- veloper wanted to hold off on the development contract? A I cannot recall the specific day. I was informed of HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i FRelu;slered Rro%essional Reporters r 747 Midland Bank Budding R Kjs:�•v+ �.� Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (61 2) 338-3530 '� ` 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 a X 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 74 that by the Assistant City Attorney, and -- Q Who is? A Craig Mertz. Q Okay. What did he tell you? A That the developer had requested that they not proceed with the development contract; that's it. Q How long a period was involved? A I believe approximately six months. Q Do you remember the year? A No, I do not. Q All right. You also referred to so-called changes by the developer; what are you referring to there? A A public hearing held by the Planning Commission had considered 49 lots, I believe. When the item was submitted to the City Council,,, the developer had changed that to reflect 52 lots, or SDI. There were significant questions in terms of procedures, how to proceed with that type of change. The developer had submitted two alternative plans in the middle of the or following the City Council approval of one of the j plans. There was a re -submittal for two -- will, an optional playa. There were significant time frames involved in reviewing the best.means to carry out road alignments and improvements as part of those. Q Why was the developer offering two alternative plans HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES ILI 24-, Registered Professional Reporter-, 747 Midland Bank Building t Minneapolis, Minnascta 55401 Phone (612) 338-3530 11 2 3- 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 1 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 71 after final plan approval; if you know? A I don't know. Q And, the change from the 49 to. 52 or 54 lots was early on in the process; is that correct; in other words, it was before the final plan approval in July of 1980; correct? A Yes. i Q And, the alternate plan was offered after July of 1980;� correct? A That's correct, Q Now, in your conversations with respect to the negotia-' tion of the development contract, did you get into the park dedication fee issue? A Yes. Q And, that involved a discussion of whether or not any - kind of contribution of the trail easement and the conservation easement could be used as an offset to the park dedication fee; correct? A The discussion was in terms of a credit for the trail easement solely, to the best of my knowledge. Q All right. Was there discussion at some point regard- ing ard- ing the number of units assessed against the property? A Yes. Q And, what was your understanding of the number of units that were assessed against the property? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters I 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401��,t�_{.�� P •:w.: •r Phone 16121 33II-3530 �B'& 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 X 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 1 A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q 72 I can't recall the specific number. What do you recall of the conversation in these negotiations on that subject, the special assessment? It was not significantly discussed. Well, other than your characterization that the dis- cussion was not significant, can you tell me what was said? The City was asked the number of units. The City stated the number of units being assessed. Mr. Sellergren stated that he felt that that issue could be resolved if we could agree to a total development contracts that was the end of the conversation. Okay. Is that special assessment part of the North Side Sewer Assessment? I do not believe so, no. Have you checked on that? No. Okay. The North Side Sewer Assessment had been the subject matter of litigations correct? That is correct.. And, was declared illegal by at least two judges; correct? MR. KNUTSON: Not the whole assessment. I'll object to the characterization of it. The agreement speaks .for itself. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES RrF;steredfro%essional R%porters 747 Midland Bank Building C Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 (W • • Phone (612) 338 3530 —;Gk" 1 2 3. 4 5 39 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 WV6 17 13 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 73 BY MR., DIETZEN: Q Okay. That was litigated before Judge Mansur, and Judge Breunig; is that right? A I'm not sure of the judges. Q All right. And, I think you were involved in litiga- tion with me before Judge Pavlak; do you recall that? A Yes. Q All right. MR. KNUTSON: Off the record. (Discussion off the record and a brief recess was taken.) BY MY,, DIETZEN: Q Now, one of the items you brought up was the wetlands which required a permit of the Corp of Engineers, which was subsequently granted; right? You talked about delay,, and that being one of the factors. A The Carp of Engineer permit was required for a .sedi-- men,ation basin. Q Apparently the City Council delayed acting on the project until after receipt of a permit from the Corp; is that correct? A That's correct. Q And, you indicated that there were significant ques- tions with respect to terrain and transportation that resulted in some delays; is that right? g��1 HERBERT L. PETERSON 8: ASSOCIATES i Registered IroJcssional Reporter,: 747 Midland Barak Ek.uilciin a •••^� Minneaaolis, Minnesr_ta 55401 �' • Phone (612) 33P 3530 1 2 A Q A Q A Q 8 9 A 10 Q 11 12 13 A 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Q 21 22 23 24 25 A That's correct. And, in fact, the City delayed it to s1 tation issue; right? No. No? To the best of my knowledge. Okay. Was the Corp of Engineer permit conditions of the final plan approval? The interpretation of the City Council was that it was., Those specific words, however, "Corp of Engineer permit" are not found anywhere in those conditions; correct? The words "Corp of Engineer" are not specifically spelled out. Directing your attention to the minutes of April 7th, 1960 -- let's see -- page 4, under the first paragraph of the minutes for rezoning subdivision and preliminary, development plan review, Sunrise Beach, Derrick Land Company, the third sentence reads, quote, this sub- division has been delayed during the course of the past year to insure that the City reasonably considered all alternatives for potential street patterns getting to, and being extended from the proposed subdivision; correct? That is what it states, yes. 4° HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Rcpislercd Projrss:meal R,•poricrs 747 Midland Hank Building RMy x'�s c Minneapolis, Minnascts 55401 Phone (612) 338-3530 ' 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17. 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 75 Q Okay, thank you. So, apparently, that transportation issue was something the City was working on; correct? MR. KNUTSON: If you know? THE WITNESS: I don't know. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Did you have any meetings with any of the neighbors out there with respect to the project? A You are going -- I would ask that you restate the question. Q All right. Did you have any discussions with any of the neighbors who were opposed to the project? A Yes. Q Did you have any discussions with Kathy Schwartz? A Yes. Q Who else; Frank. Beddor? A Frank Beddor. Q Can you give me any other names? A I believe Georgette Sosin, but I'm not sure. Q All right. Did you have any discussions with them, outside the City Council meetings that you attended? A Yes. Q Is It true that the conditions that were made a part of the approval, were conditions that, in part, origi- nated from this Kathy Schwartz and Frank Beddor? A I have no knowledge of that. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered Professional Reporters ` Np:Y.ula 747 Midland Bank Building j�' •• • • Minneapolis, Minneso-:a 55401 F•,. Phone (612) 338-3530 76 1 Q You have no knowledge of that? 2 A That's correct. 3 Q Isn't it true that you received a list of conditions -4 from those people with respect to the proposed de- s velopment? 6 A Not to the best of my knowledge, no. 7 Q You would deny that? 8 A Yes. 9 Q Did you have any discussions regarding this project 10 with any of the Council -- City Council members out- 11 side of the context of the City Council meetings? 12 A Yes. 13 Q Who did you have discussions with? 14 A I cannot recall any specific conversations; but I'm 15 assured in my own mind that I did speak with each and 16 every one of them. 17 Q Do you recall meeting with them individually or In 13 groups or what? 19 A Individually. 20 Q Do you recall ever meeting with more than one City 21 Councilman? 22 A No: Outside of a Council meeting is your question? 23 Q Yes? 24 A That's my response. My response stays the same, "no". 25 Q And, I assume you had conversations with the Mayor, HERBERT L. PETERSOi'N & ASSOCIATES . t� licgwvred Profe.::siunal Reporters f; 747 Midland Bank Building I��e � "• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 a Phone IS121 338-3530 �� 1 2 3- 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 77 Tom Hamilton; right? A Yes. Q Are you acquainted with Lloyd Leirdahl? A Yes. Q Of Minnesota Sentry Builders, Inc.? A I do not know what firm he is with. Q He has a development in Chanhassen; right? A He has built homes in -Chanhassen. Q All right. You are acquainted with Frank Beddor? A Yes. Q And, he was opposed to this project; correct? A I have no knowledge of that. Q He has expressed concern over the project; would that be a better way to put it? A I know of no negative comment made by him. Q Has Mr. Beddor been involved in some development projects in Chanhassen? A Yes. Q Has the City purchased property from Mr. Beddor? A Yes. Q Was that part of a major redevelopment project for downtown Chanhassen? A Yes. Q And, were bonds sold with respect to that project? A Yes. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES i Registered Professional Reporter. 747 Midland Bank Building , N ••+ �• V Minneapolis, Minn6sots 55401� .4 4. c� Phone (612) 338-3530 1 2 3 4 5 -6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 78 Q And, were proceeds of the bonds used to purchase property of Mr. Beddor, to the best of your knowledge? I think I'm referring to the property of the Press, Inc.? A The City sold bonds and used the proceeds to purchase the Instant Web building. Whether Mr. Beddor is sole or partial owner I do not know. Q Has an interest in it, anyway? A Yes. Q Do you know what amount of proceeds were used to make that purchase; in other words, what the dollar figure was? A No, I do not. Q Was there any other use of those funds? A Yes. � Q Outside of this purchase from this -- is it called I Insti- Web? A Instant web. Q Instant bleb, all eight. Other than Instant Web, what were the proceeds used for? A Almost a fourth of the proceeds were used for capital- ized interest. A portion is still in reserve for acquisitions that have not been consummated; and engineering, legal costs to date. Q No other acquisitions have been consummated; is that t HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Registered No(pssiorat Reporter;, 747 !Midland Bank Building 4JQy a y.s'•H. K µ�� �aes,?Minneapolis, ARinnasc;s 55401 X �``• �w'SM 1 Phone (612) 336-3530 1 2 3. 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 1.3 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 1 79 correct? A Through the use of those bond proceeds, no. Q Have those bonds been since refinanced? A No. Q Was there an attempt to refinance them? A Yes. Q It wasn't consummated? A That's correct. Q Why? A No bids were received. Q That's a pretty good reason. Has the City of Chanhasse , to your knowledge, ever been involved in litigation with respect to the dock issue involved in this law- suit? A I am unaware of any lawsuit that the City has been involved with regarding dockage. Q Now, I asked you some questions earlier about the assessment, and you indicated you weren't sure of the number of units assessed. How would we find that out? A The City Engineer maintains a file on connection charges. Q A file on connection charges that you would be able to identify this project, and determine the number of units that have been assessed against the property? A The Engineer has a file which reflects the number of 4 HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES ' Re'gistered Professional Reporters 1 n� 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesosa 55401 Phone (612) 339 3530 ►4a. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 80 units that are to be placed against the property as connection charges, yes. Q Okay. Now, we made reference earlier to a study that was made by the City with respect to dockage; was that study received formally by the City Council? A I need clarification on the question. Q Okay. Let me back up. When we earlier -- in your deposition I asked you whether a study had been made by the City with respect to docks. I believe you indicated a study was made. I then asked you whether there was an ordinance. We talked about the ordinance and the status of the ordinance. Going back to that question and answer, was the study formally received by the Council? A Yes. Q And, is that a matter of record, then, that would be available for inspection? A Yes. Q Where would that be located? A City files. Q Okay. So, if I ask for a document and called it "study of dockage by City", would that be sufficient to identify it for you to find it? A Yes. Q All right. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES . g:, trrcd !'rr�%r.+siorc( F.eporters -. a.�, ,•,� 747 Midland Bank Building e, .. Minneapolis, r• Minneapolis. Minnesota 554C11 p�' Phone (612) 338-3530 t5l4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 81 A It's Water Surface Usage Ordinance. Q Study? I'm talking about a study as compared to a draft ordinance. I think I've seen the draft ordinance A There was a study committee that created the ordinance, recommended ordinance. Q Has the City Council reviewed, or considered any environmental reports that you haven't already pro— duced here? MR. KNUTSON: In connection with this project? BY MR. DIETZEN: Q In connection with this project? MR. LAUGHINGHOUSE: What was the question please? BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Any other environmental studies? A No. Q Does the City Council minutes reflect a verbatim transcript of those meetings? A No. Q Does the City Council have verbatim transcripts of the meetings involved: the Planning Commission and City Council meetings involved in this project? A Some. Q Have those been transcribed? L HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Ri,gistered Professional Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building , p p.a •�. ri '+i Y �iZ Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 F. Phone (612) 33£-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q Yes. And, are they available for inspection? Yes. Do you know which Council meetings are transcribed and available? Any transcripts completed are the minutes. Are they contained in the documents we have here? Yes. Any transcripts you have would be here on the table? Yes. All. right. Has the City had 'an appraisal done on the subject property? Not With respect to the road, the developfrient of the Fox Path as set forth on Exhibit D -- again for illustra- tive purposes -- now, with respect to the Fox Path, the layout of the roadway as it comes over in this way -- which would be the --- as you are looking north towards the southwest corner of the preliminary plat; if the roadway were to be -- to ever go through, would it be good planning to have it laid out as is set forth on Exhibit D with the cul-de-sac and the 100- foot right-of-way? MR. KNUTSON: Object to the lack of foundation as to his expertise to answer the HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES � 1;ckr.;lcr•cd 1'roji•s;'ii:nal Reporters 747 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 338-3530 11 21 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 13 14 15 16 17 1s 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 83 question; but, he can try to answer the question if he wants. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q All right. Was this a matter that was discussed, and that you had an opportunity to review? A Well, the Planning Commission, City Council reviewed the location and design of all of the streets, includ- ing that one. Q All right. From a planning standpoint, based on your knowledge and experience, would it be good planning to have the cul-de-sac laid out as is set forth in Exhibit D to the complaint, if the road -- Fox Path were going to go through at a subsequent date? A I formulated no opinions as to the road location or des-1.gn. We used engineering planning experts in that area. Q Didn't the City staff -- specifically, Mr. Monk -- indicate that it would be better not to have the layout with the 100--foot cul-de-sac there if the road was going to go through? A if the road were to go through, Mr. Monk stated it would; not be necessary to have the cul-de-sac. Q Has the City of Chanhassen ever attempted to regulate private docks on any of the lakes, apart from these developments that we've talked about? HERBERT L. PETERSCN & ASSOCIATES ffi-gistered Nofcssionul Reportc,s Hw;... 747 Midland Bank Building IV Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401; e.m Phone ;612i 336-3530 1 A 2 Q 3 4 A 5 6 Q 7 a 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 W I have no knowledge of that. Meaning what; you are not 11 aware of any such attempt, or you don't know? I don't know. I'm unaware of any such attempts, and I'm also -- I don't know. For example, if no agreement were contained in the developer's contract with respect to the dock issue, and you have ten lots in this project, that property on Lotus Lake, what would prevent those people from --• those landowners after purchasing those homes from going out and putting docks on their lake frontage? MR. KNUTSON: Just so far as you are asking for a legal conclusion, I object. If he wants to speculate as to what he knows; that' fire: BY MR. DIETZEN: Q I'm asking him to testify as to his understanding? A I would be making a speculative statement. Q "v-'ell, other than Counsel's suggesting that to you, why would that be speculative? MR, KNUTSON: Do you know the answer to the question? THE WITNESS: No. MR. KNUTSON: That's why it would be speculative. He doesn't know. HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES 16-gi;tered 1 rofessiunci Repurlers 747 Midiand Bank Building 5 •• r• Mi :^eapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone 1612) 338-3530 1 1 2 3. 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 i 85 BY MR. DIETZEN: Q Well, if I understand your answer, so I'm not confused,' you think it's speculative, but you don't know why; is that it? MR. KNUTSON: I think you are mis- characterizing --- why don't we start up with the question again. BY MR. DIETZEN: Q All right. Let's take it one step at a time. I want to get your testimony. I don't want to get Mr. Knutson's testimony. MR. KNUTSON: I wasn't testifying. YR. DIETZEN: Well, your objection was not a legal objection, but a coaching objection; which is consistent with what you've done in the past. MR. KNUTSON: It was an objection that was trying to clarify your ambiguous question. MR,, DIETZEN: I'm just encouraging you to _state your objections in the legal form. BY MR, DIETZEN: Q The question is simply this: is there anything that you are aware of that would prevent a landowner from placing a private dock on lake front property on Lotus Lake? HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES Rcgislcrcd I 'o/i'ssi<;:u:i R.,porier: 747 Midland Bank Building a P•°'••^^• Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone !f 121 336-3530 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A Yes. Q What is that? A Not owning the land, or the question as to ownership. Q Well, let's assume that Roger Derrick goes out and he buys himself a house on Lotus Lake with lake frontage; is there anything that would prevent him as the owner of that land from placing a private dock on his lake frontage? A Yes, Q What? A If he built in the Carver Beach area, he could not put a dock in front of his property. �? Because of that restriction on record. Well, let's talk about other ---- let's talk about the subject property: say he built a house on the subject property and he has it on the lake front there; is there any -- thing preventing him from building a dock there? A Again, it becomes a legal question that I really can't answer in terms of who owns the conservation area, how can a person reasonably get from his house crossing lands that he does not own, does he own them. You know, it, again --- outside of this deposition, if the question occurred I would ask the City Attorney for his opinion as to whether a person could construct a dock or not in that situation. I would not make my 1 HERBERT L. PETERSON & ASSOCIATES ?47 Midland Bank Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Phone (612) 33.8 3530 y OC9F ^ocC IZ19) au04d ...„ ;•ey��'a� LOi'9g a;oseuut�,,y •si)0dseuuiy� u,• ,•Jatx:d;';r fottr�ts,i/nyl p.�.ta�sr�;�� S31VIOOSSV T NOS8313d '3 1M398 ]H � u� (•m•d XaoToso 5T:Z 4s Papua uoT4Tsoda(i spasnoxa ssau4TM) i F p002 SJa.A S auTa : NHZtIHIG ° UW quvm nod 2uTg44J ana ,Koux I awns 4ou m,I 'Mou our 04 gT aTggTaos uBo no4 •pusg2uoT uT aq uBa qI aSuT4Tjm uT tuagq awaq of aajaad ptnOA I=NOSLf1NX 'UN i Luosgnux -.IN ¢ 48g4 op of am axjj n04 pTnoM Moq Jo `ono magq 4as pub jaggaT a no.9 peas oq am 4uvm nob oQ • aas 04 931TT pTnox I 4sgq 0'4 pajlajaa 14-eqq stua4T 3o aagwnu E aaaM aaag4 °asaTa sT paoaaa 9q4 OS :NHZJgIQ 'UW °os op 04 ONTT pTnoM I :SSHNJIM HHJ� • os op nox 4E44 puammooga I pus ! 4T pagTa39us.z4 saq ae4jodaz ganoo aqg aagjv uoTgTsodap anoS u2Ts pus puea o4 4gpTj aqq anvq nob ° qWo Kgsy - aW : NOSSIINX -UN g4aobtgsv * JW r anzT 3 STg4 48 aasg I suoT4sanb aq4 TT8 9,48g4 `TTaM •SBXO 04Ou pTnoo ag ao pTnOO aq aaggagM oq ss uoTuTdo uMo SZ VIZ Sz Zz TZ oz 6T ST LT 91 ST VT CT ZT IT OT 6 S L 9 S n o£9F, 0 s c IZL9) euoyd 1 LOV99 A10SODUM 'SHOORODUM bud In u6 ue i :''i•" Pi fl �' 3 P IP 1L L b L (att S?iVIDOSSb'R NOSH313d '1 1839ki3H na O I'Iucl 7,HV SON . £86T I jo Asp sTgq am aaojaq og uaoMs Pula pagTaosgnS HIUOMHSV agvNOQ HONVHD HO.i NOSVHH QNV HONVHD 5INI'I HOVC1 (:AqM uossaa aqg pus pagTaosap uoTgTPPB ao 95usgo aqg 3o aagwnu ouTT pus 98sd aqg SuTgou 49AOIT0J s8 gdaoxa `ao) gaaaaoo pus snag aq og acres aqq anaTToq Ptm `£$61 r jo Asp sTgg uoTgTsodap Aar jo gdTaosusag 2uTo2aao3 aqq p8aa ansq I gsgq SJT4aa3 Agaaaq op lggaoMqsy plsuoa QI I Sz tlz cz ZZ TZ OZ 6T 8T LT 91 ST %T CT ZT TT OT 6 8 L 9 S Z ' T 0£S£-8££ (ZL9) 9u04d y {, L 04S S atoseutliW 'silodeeuuiW n'i" dk 6uiPWIO lue9 Pu9IP!W Lt�L � .ai��(�d,�y ra!�c��s,•,�folcl Pa.�.��stX.N � S3iVIDOSSV 18 NOS!l313d 'l IH39H3H 'L86T `t aunr saaTdxa uoTsspmoo Sys sgosauuTyw ' 4gunoo 4400S oT.Tgnd faBgoN uazgax 00 xauaazr •E861 :aunr jo d'sp SIHS USS GO, GNVH Jib SS9jlJ ;:rM Toaguoo put uoTg;DaaTP Am aapun paaadaad SgTITgs Ai jo gsaq aq4 og sagou adkgouags Saz jo gdTaosuetag agsanooL> us sT sTug gragg :uoTgos sTgg 3o awoogno aqq uT Pa4saaaquT dam 4us uT aou 04aaaq saTgasd aqg so Sus og paqu—[aa ®u Sq paAoldwa you wB I U44 =al4T4 agg uT paTjToads asnsa aq4 og anTgvlaa ggnag aqg gnq SuTggou pub ;ggnag alogM agg eg4n.14 aqg XJTgsag og uaoMs BTnp svm `8uTAJ Tgsag aaoj aq Issau4Tm pTvs asgg !g4VO uB aagsTuTwPv og pazTaoggns aaagg Pub uagg sv$j I joaa.agg angaTA Aq 4ug4 f uoTgTsodap pTss 2uTxBg uT aaTjjO 4vg4 jo aaMod aq4 pasToaaxa 14vgg :s4osauuTW jo a4v4S pus 4400S jo 44unoo aq4 aoj pus uT oTTgnd fav4oN a aaagg pus uagg gvm I gsgg :Tasunoo 3o guawaaasy pus aoTgoN og gusnsand `HLHOMHSd agVNOQ .To uoTgTsodap aq4 Moog I gsga `NMOHx SI aS ( SS,OoS do AZNHoo :ss (bW GHNNIW do alVIS i SZ Vz EZ ZZ TZ OZ 6T 8T LT 9T ST bT 8T ZT TT OT 6 8 L 9 S Z T