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06/11/1981 - City Council RegularI f E • MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE ADVISORY PARKS & RECREATION COMMITTEE EAGAN, MINNESOTA JUNE 11, 1981 A regular meeting of the Eagan Advisory Parks & Recreation Committee was held on June 11, 1981, at the Eagan City Hall. Those present were committee members Carroll, McNeely, Thurston, Loken, Martin, Fedde and Tilley. Also pre- sent were Parks & Recreation Director Vraa, City Planner Runkle and Administra- tive/Planning Assistant Ulrich. Committee members Pettit, Thomas and Johnson were absent. i;li;l yf �9 In a motion by Martin, seconded by Loken, with all members voting in favor, regular minutes of the Advisory Park & Recreation Committee meeting of May 7, 1981 were approved. AGENDA Parks and Recreation Director Vraa offered two (2) additional items to be considered as other business on the agenda, consisting of the following: a. Request for use of Northview Athletic Field, and b. A land gift. In a motion by Carroll, seconded by Thurston, with all members voting in favor, the agenda for the June 11, 1981 Advisory Park & Recreation Committee meeting was approved with the two additional items. DAKOTA COUNTY ASSOCIATION FOR RETARDED CITIZENS (D.A.R.C.) Ms. Sue Seymour and Ms. Gail Cotton, representing the Dakota County Association for Retarded Citizens, appeared to. -request financinal assistance from the City. Ms. Seymour explained that the D'.A.R.C. is.a United Way Agency serving St. Paul and suburban counties of over 192,000. Through its Recreation Unlimited, D.A.R.C. sponsors community service for both children and adults in a joint cooperative effort of public agencies who are responsible for recrea- tional services. Ms. Seymour then presented an informative slide presentation about the retarded. She stated that there are an estimated 1,700 retarded individuals within the service area of D.A.R.C. and that there are approximately 30 retarded school age children plus the retarded individuals who are residents of the Orvilla Home in Eagan. She next outlined briefly a history of the organization and stated that D.A.R.C. was a cooperative effort involving approxi- mately 11 cities in eight school districts within the county. Ms. Cotton stated that several specific programs have been developed in Eagan and that further preschool .and adult programs will be devel.ped in the future. Martin stated that he was concerned whether all individuals in need of the service were ade- quately informed of the program. Ms. Cotton stated that the D.A.R.C. has an effective advertising program which probably reaches as many people as practical. The D.A.R.C. request for a donation of $1,-.00 from the City of .Eagan for the support of its recreational program has been granted in past years in two $500 'I payments. Staff recommended that one $5CO payment now and one $500 payment L in January, charged to the 1982 budget, would be an appropriate method -of pay- ment. Loken stated that she had a questicn on how the amount of the assistance was calculated. Ms. Seymour stated that the $1,000 was a calculated amount which was proportioned to the populacion of the City. After further discussion, a motion was offered by Thurston, seconded by Martin, with all members voting Advisory Park & Recreation Committee Minutes June 11, 1981 Page Two in favor that a $1,000 assistance payment to D.A.R.C. shall be recommended to the City Council for approval. ZACHMAN HOMES — CINNAMON RIDCE Mr. Steve Ryan, representing the Cinnamon Ridge Development of Zach— man Homes, Inc., appeared and stated a request for partial park credit on designated park areas within the Cinnamon Ridge subdivision. Vraa stated that some figures in the packet report were inaccurate and that correct figures were available at this time. Steve Ryan stated that the designated park area within Cinnamon Ridge consisted of two separate parcels, that is, one parcel of approxi— mately 2.5 acres, centrally located within the plat, and an approximately 6 acre parcel located in the northwest corner of the plat. Loken stated that the area was already adequately served by the River Hills Ninth Addition park facilities and suggested that the City accept the 6 acre parcel and reject the 2.5 acre parcel. Martin stated the concern that the area already has an active park facility for the area and Metcalf Junior High School facilities nearby. Steve Ryan stated that he was not asking for a 100% credit on the parkland but indicated that some partial credit was desired. Loken then stated that the interior park area has access problems because it is surrounded by residences. Chairman Martin stated that maintenance of the two parcels may be •a concern and that the 6 acre parcel has serious prcblems with flooding. After additional discussion, Thurston moved and Martin seconded a motion to retain the cash dedication for Cinnamon Ridge as previously recommended by the Parks & Recreation Committee and listed the following concerns: 1. The area already has sufficient park facilities in River Hills Ninth Addition and Metcalf Junior High School `to service its maximum popula— tion and existing facilities already meet .the projected needs of the area. 2. The area is not large enough to meet the criteria used by the City for the establishment of a City park within the development. 3. The topography of the 6 acre parcel in the northwest corner of the plat would not lend itself to a usable park area and flooding of the site is probable. All members voted in favor. HILLTOP ESTATES PATH Parks & Recreation Director Vraa stated that 'the City has a formal agreement with.Dunn & Curry Real Estate Management, Inc., to provide a bituminous pathway in Hilltop Estates. He further s:a:ed that a portion of the trail was constructed as agreed upon in the fall of 1980, but that the entire path was not constructed because of high water near the ponds. Vraa then stated that — Dunn & Curry is requesting that the City consider the possibility of installing a natural surfaced, meandering path instead of the bituminous path which was originally planned. Mr. John Moffett III appeared on behalf of the Hilltop Estates homeowners and stated that he had received a blank petition from Dunn Advisory Park & Recreation Committee Minutes June 11, 1981 Page Three & Curry advocating a change in trail specifications but that he has no intention of circulating the petition and hopes that the City will require Dunn & Curry to comply with its commitments. Committee members discussed the fact that a natural trail creates maintenance and safety hazards. Staff reported that these trail segments are portions of connective loops and are important to the trails system. Residents of the area were present in the audience and stated objections to the present alignment of the trail because stands of mature trees would be destroyed. Parks and Recreation Director Vraa stated that the present staked alignment of the trail was only tenative and that any trail, bituminous or natural surfaced, would probably have to destroy some trees. Several residents stated that when they bought their property that they weren't adequately informed about the trail agreement Dunn & Curry had with the City. Additional discussions ensued concerning the City's policy regarding trail surface material and trails along ponds. Vraa stated that the Hilltop Estates trail was a model trail which is to be used to provide public access to the pond. After further discussion, members of the committee suggested that committee members along with staff should make an on-site inspection of the trail. It was agreed that staff and committee 'members would neer on Thursday, June 18, at 5 p.m. to make an on-site tour of the Hilltop Estates trailway, with June 25 established as an alternate date. REQUEST FOR USE OF NORTHVIEN ATHLETIC FIELD Mr. Craig Stricker appeared before the Park & Recreation Committee with a request to use Northview athletic Field for a fund raising event for his softball team which plays in an Apple Valley league. Mr. Stricker stated that he wants to sponsor an outdoor concert which would include two bands and beer for a $5.00 admission. The event would be scheduled for Saturday, June 28, and would utilize the plateau immediately adjacent to the soccer field. Mr. Stricker stated that he would acquire a 24 hour, $300,000 liability insurance policy to cover any damages. Mr. Stricker further stated that he would hire about six to seven trained personnel for security purposes and expects an attendance of from 500 to 1,000 people. In response to questions from the com- mittee, Mr. Stricker stated that this was his first experience with this type of event. He also stated that he chose %orthview as a site because of its isolation from residential areas. He also stated that any profit from the event would be used for the softball team and personal profit. Committee members were concerned abut the nuisance which would occur to neighboring residents. Martin suggested that the police department should be contacted for their opinion on the event and that more staff research woudl be desirable because of the large crowds and the beer drinking at the event. Committee member Tilley stated that she did not believe it was proper park policy to allow the use of public parks for private profit. Staff informed co=ittee members that a special permit would be required in order to sell beer. Carroll stated his concern that the pr•posed insurance coverage would not be adequate. The following concerns of committee members were noted: 1. The City does not have a policy .or procedure to handle such requests. 2. The number of people expected to attend this event would limit access of the park to the general public during that time. Advisory Park & Recreation Committee Minutes June 11, 1981 Page Four 3. The hours proposed for operation are excessive. A motion was offered by Chairman Martin, seconded by McNeely, with all members voting in favor, that the proposal is inapprcpriate use for a City park. WINKLER/JACKSON PARKS DEDICATION Parks & Recreation Director Vraa reviewed the proposed Winkler/Jack- son Addition and proposed parks dedication previously reviewed by .the develop- ment subcommittee. Proposed dedication contains approximately 4.4'acres which abuts a 3.5 acre parcel of land to be turned back to the City of Eagan by MnDOT creating a total park area of about 7.7 acres. He stated that the 4.4 acres represents a partial parks dedication representing approximately 67% of the approximately 6.55 park acres normal requirements with the plat. Vraa indicated that the remining parks dedication would be 2.15 acres or,approximately .$30,400 based on current cash dedication requirements and maximum number of units planned for the development. He indicated that the cash dedication requirements could be less if the proposed number of units were not developed or the area which contains approximately 8.6 acres be changed back from R-3 to limited business. Staff recommended that the remaining parks dedication be in either cash at the time of the phase development or a commit=ent of grading of the park based on current cubic yard estimates. After fur:her discussion of available options for grading/cash contributions, Martin offered a motion, Loken seconded, with all members vocing in favor: (1) To accept 4.4 acres of park land dedication; and, (2) The park area is to be graded within two years of the development agree- ment or a cash dedication in the amount of S21,250.00. . COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PARKS PLAN Parks & Recreation Director Vraa explained to the committee the benefits of a master plan for City parks. He stated that the plan would include a five year plan for capital improvemencs, a system plan, an identification of each system and a review of the park system's recreational aspects. Committee members generally agreed chat the master parks plan is 'a good idea and staff recommended that one or two members be designated by the committee to formulate a strategy or direction to the Council on this matter. Concern was expressed by Loken that the new plan should be developed with adequate and reliable methods. After additional discussion of the master plan process, the committee agreed to form a subcommittee consisting of members Carroll, Martin and Tilley to study the Comprehensive Master Parks Plan concept. BICYCLE TRAILS SURVEY Parks & Recreation Director Vraa presented to the committee a survey which was conducted recently along the City's Highline Trail. Committee members commended staff for the high quality of the report. No action was taken. LAND GIFT - Parks & Recreation Director Vraa presented a proposal to the City from Jim Tilsen of Tilsen Homes, Inc., to donate a parcel of land described as Lot 11, Block 5, Wilderness Fourth A'dditi-n. Vraa pointed out that the parcel would be suitable for providing trail access around the adjoining pond. Due to a lack of available information, the c-znittee agreed to review the matter at a later date. No action was taken. 0 • Advisory Park & Recreation Committee Minutes June 11, 1981 Page Five 1982 BUDGET Parks & Recreation Director Vraa informed the committee that the City has begun the budget process for 1982. He stated that he would like com— mittee members to express any thoughts they may have concerning the upcoming budget. No action was taken. BICYCLE TRAILS PLAN Parks & Recreation Director Vraa informed the committee that the Bicycle Trails Plan received City Council approval at their June 3, 1981 meeting as recommended by the Advisory Parks Committee. He stated that staff would now proceed with the compilation of. the final document. No action was taken. ADJOURNMENT Due to the lateness of the hour, the committee agreed to table the following items until the next scheduled regular meeting: 1. Park Dedication 2. Bond Issue Process 3. Policy for Play Perimeters 4. Summer in the Park 5. Ridgecliffe Park — Program Update Ii There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:20 p.m. Dated: June 11, 1981 KGUU . Advisory rks & Recreation Committee Secretary I f E • MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE ADVISORY PARKS & RECREATION COMMITTEE EAGAN, MINNESOTA JUNE 11, 1981 A regular meeting of the Eagan Advisory Parks & Recreation Committee was held on June 11, 1981, at the Eagan City Hall. Those present were committee members Carroll, McNeely, Thurston, Loken, Martin, Fedde and Tilley. Also pre- sent were Parks & Recreation Director Vraa, City Planner Runkle and Administra- tive/Planning Assistant Ulrich. Committee members Pettit, Thomas and Johnson were absent. i;li;l yf �9 In a motion by Martin, seconded by Loken, with all members voting in favor, regular minutes of the Advisory Park & Recreation Committee meeting of May 7, 1981 were approved. AGENDA Parks and Recreation Director Vraa offered two (2) additional items to be considered as other business on the agenda, consisting of the following: a. Request for use of Northview Athletic Field, and b. A land gift. In a motion by Carroll, seconded by Thurston, with all members voting in favor, the agenda for the June 11, 1981 Advisory Park & Recreation Committee meeting was approved with the two additional items. DAKOTA COUNTY ASSOCIATION FOR RETARDED CITIZENS (D.A.R.C.) Ms. Sue Seymour and Ms. Gail Cotton, representing the Dakota County Association for Retarded Citizens, appeared to. -request financinal assistance from the City. Ms. Seymour explained that the D'.A.R.C. is.a United Way Agency serving St. Paul and suburban counties of over 192,000. Through its Recreation Unlimited, D.A.R.C. sponsors community service for both children and adults in a joint cooperative effort of public agencies who are responsible for recrea- tional services. Ms. Seymour then presented an informative slide presentation about the retarded. She stated that there are an estimated 1,700 retarded individuals within the service area of D.A.R.C. and that there are approximately 30 retarded school age children plus the retarded individuals who are residents of the Orvilla Home in Eagan. She next outlined briefly a history of the organization and stated that D.A.R.C. was a cooperative effort involving approxi- mately 11 cities in eight school districts within the county. Ms. Cotton stated that several specific programs have been developed in Eagan and that further preschool .and adult programs will be devel.ped in the future. Martin stated that he was concerned whether all individuals in need of the service were ade- quately informed of the program. Ms. Cotton stated that the D.A.R.C. has an effective advertising program which probably reaches as many people as practical. The D.A.R.C. request for a donation of $1,-.00 from the City of .Eagan for the support of its recreational program has been granted in past years in two $500 'I payments. Staff recommended that one $5CO payment now and one $500 payment L in January, charged to the 1982 budget, would be an appropriate method -of pay- ment. Loken stated that she had a questicn on how the amount of the assistance was calculated. Ms. Seymour stated that the $1,000 was a calculated amount which was proportioned to the populacion of the City. After further discussion, a motion was offered by Thurston, seconded by Martin, with all members voting Advisory Park & Recreation Committee Minutes June 11, 1981 Page Two in favor that a $1,000 assistance payment to D.A.R.C. shall be recommended to the City Council for approval. ZACHMAN HOMES — CINNAMON RIDCE Mr. Steve Ryan, representing the Cinnamon Ridge Development of Zach— man Homes, Inc., appeared and stated a request for partial park credit on designated park areas within the Cinnamon Ridge subdivision. Vraa stated that some figures in the packet report were inaccurate and that correct figures were available at this time. Steve Ryan stated that the designated park area within Cinnamon Ridge consisted of two separate parcels, that is, one parcel of approxi— mately 2.5 acres, centrally located within the plat, and an approximately 6 acre parcel located in the northwest corner of the plat. Loken stated that the area was already adequately served by the River Hills Ninth Addition park facilities and suggested that the City accept the 6 acre parcel and reject the 2.5 acre parcel. Martin stated the concern that the area already has an active park facility for the area and Metcalf Junior High School facilities nearby. Steve Ryan stated that he was not asking for a 100% credit on the parkland but indicated that some partial credit was desired. Loken then stated that the interior park area has access problems because it is surrounded by residences. Chairman Martin stated that maintenance of the two parcels may be •a concern and that the 6 acre parcel has serious prcblems with flooding. After additional discussion, Thurston moved and Martin seconded a motion to retain the cash dedication for Cinnamon Ridge as previously recommended by the Parks & Recreation Committee and listed the following concerns: 1. The area already has sufficient park facilities in River Hills Ninth Addition and Metcalf Junior High School `to service its maximum popula— tion and existing facilities already meet .the projected needs of the area. 2. The area is not large enough to meet the criteria used by the City for the establishment of a City park within the development. 3. The topography of the 6 acre parcel in the northwest corner of the plat would not lend itself to a usable park area and flooding of the site is probable. All members voted in favor. HILLTOP ESTATES PATH Parks & Recreation Director Vraa stated that 'the City has a formal agreement with.Dunn & Curry Real Estate Management, Inc., to provide a bituminous pathway in Hilltop Estates. He further s:a:ed that a portion of the trail was constructed as agreed upon in the fall of 1980, but that the entire path was not constructed because of high water near the ponds. Vraa then stated that — Dunn & Curry is requesting that the City consider the possibility of installing a natural surfaced, meandering path instead of the bituminous path which was originally planned. Mr. John Moffett III appeared on behalf of the Hilltop Estates homeowners and stated that he had received a blank petition from Dunn Advisory Park & Recreation Committee Minutes June 11, 1981 Page Three & Curry advocating a change in trail specifications but that he has no intention of circulating the petition and hopes that the City will require Dunn & Curry to comply with its commitments. Committee members discussed the fact that a natural trail creates maintenance and safety hazards. Staff reported that these trail segments are portions of connective loops and are important to the trails system. Residents of the area were present in the audience and stated objections to the present alignment of the trail because stands of mature trees would be destroyed. Parks and Recreation Director Vraa stated that the present staked alignment of the trail was only tenative and that any trail, bituminous or natural surfaced, would probably have to destroy some trees. Several residents stated that when they bought their property that they weren't adequately informed about the trail agreement Dunn & Curry had with the City. Additional discussions ensued concerning the City's policy regarding trail surface material and trails along ponds. Vraa stated that the Hilltop Estates trail was a model trail which is to be used to provide public access to the pond. After further discussion, members of the committee suggested that committee members along with staff should make an on-site inspection of the trail. It was agreed that staff and committee 'members would neer on Thursday, June 18, at 5 p.m. to make an on-site tour of the Hilltop Estates trailway, with June 25 established as an alternate date. REQUEST FOR USE OF NORTHVIEN ATHLETIC FIELD Mr. Craig Stricker appeared before the Park & Recreation Committee with a request to use Northview athletic Field for a fund raising event for his softball team which plays in an Apple Valley league. Mr. Stricker stated that he wants to sponsor an outdoor concert which would include two bands and beer for a $5.00 admission. The event would be scheduled for Saturday, June 28, and would utilize the plateau immediately adjacent to the soccer field. Mr. Stricker stated that he would acquire a 24 hour, $300,000 liability insurance policy to cover any damages. Mr. Stricker further stated that he would hire about six to seven trained personnel for security purposes and expects an attendance of from 500 to 1,000 people. In response to questions from the com- mittee, Mr. Stricker stated that this was his first experience with this type of event. He also stated that he chose %orthview as a site because of its isolation from residential areas. He also stated that any profit from the event would be used for the softball team and personal profit. Committee members were concerned abut the nuisance which would occur to neighboring residents. Martin suggested that the police department should be contacted for their opinion on the event and that more staff research woudl be desirable because of the large crowds and the beer drinking at the event. Committee member Tilley stated that she did not believe it was proper park policy to allow the use of public parks for private profit. Staff informed co=ittee members that a special permit would be required in order to sell beer. Carroll stated his concern that the pr•posed insurance coverage would not be adequate. The following concerns of committee members were noted: 1. The City does not have a policy .or procedure to handle such requests. 2. The number of people expected to attend this event would limit access of the park to the general public during that time. Advisory Park & Recreation Committee Minutes June 11, 1981 Page Four 3. The hours proposed for operation are excessive. A motion was offered by Chairman Martin, seconded by McNeely, with all members voting in favor, that the proposal is inapprcpriate use for a City park. WINKLER/JACKSON PARKS DEDICATION Parks & Recreation Director Vraa reviewed the proposed Winkler/Jack- son Addition and proposed parks dedication previously reviewed by .the develop- ment subcommittee. Proposed dedication contains approximately 4.4'acres which abuts a 3.5 acre parcel of land to be turned back to the City of Eagan by MnDOT creating a total park area of about 7.7 acres. He stated that the 4.4 acres represents a partial parks dedication representing approximately 67% of the approximately 6.55 park acres normal requirements with the plat. Vraa indicated that the remining parks dedication would be 2.15 acres or,approximately .$30,400 based on current cash dedication requirements and maximum number of units planned for the development. He indicated that the cash dedication requirements could be less if the proposed number of units were not developed or the area which contains approximately 8.6 acres be changed back from R-3 to limited business. Staff recommended that the remaining parks dedication be in either cash at the time of the phase development or a commit=ent of grading of the park based on current cubic yard estimates. After fur:her discussion of available options for grading/cash contributions, Martin offered a motion, Loken seconded, with all members vocing in favor: (1) To accept 4.4 acres of park land dedication; and, (2) The park area is to be graded within two years of the development agree- ment or a cash dedication in the amount of S21,250.00. . COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PARKS PLAN Parks & Recreation Director Vraa explained to the committee the benefits of a master plan for City parks. He stated that the plan would include a five year plan for capital improvemencs, a system plan, an identification of each system and a review of the park system's recreational aspects. Committee members generally agreed chat the master parks plan is 'a good idea and staff recommended that one or two members be designated by the committee to formulate a strategy or direction to the Council on this matter. Concern was expressed by Loken that the new plan should be developed with adequate and reliable methods. After additional discussion of the master plan process, the committee agreed to form a subcommittee consisting of members Carroll, Martin and Tilley to study the Comprehensive Master Parks Plan concept. BICYCLE TRAILS SURVEY Parks & Recreation Director Vraa presented to the committee a survey which was conducted recently along the City's Highline Trail. Committee members commended staff for the high quality of the report. No action was taken. LAND GIFT - Parks & Recreation Director Vraa presented a proposal to the City from Jim Tilsen of Tilsen Homes, Inc., to donate a parcel of land described as Lot 11, Block 5, Wilderness Fourth A'dditi-n. Vraa pointed out that the parcel would be suitable for providing trail access around the adjoining pond. Due to a lack of available information, the c-znittee agreed to review the matter at a later date. No action was taken. 0 • Advisory Park & Recreation Committee Minutes June 11, 1981 Page Five 1982 BUDGET Parks & Recreation Director Vraa informed the committee that the City has begun the budget process for 1982. He stated that he would like com— mittee members to express any thoughts they may have concerning the upcoming budget. No action was taken. BICYCLE TRAILS PLAN Parks & Recreation Director Vraa informed the committee that the Bicycle Trails Plan received City Council approval at their June 3, 1981 meeting as recommended by the Advisory Parks Committee. He stated that staff would now proceed with the compilation of. the final document. No action was taken. ADJOURNMENT Due to the lateness of the hour, the committee agreed to table the following items until the next scheduled regular meeting: 1. Park Dedication 2. Bond Issue Process 3. Policy for Play Perimeters 4. Summer in the Park 5. Ridgecliffe Park — Program Update Ii There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:20 p.m. Dated: June 11, 1981 KGUU . Advisory rks & Recreation Committee Secretary