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05/26/1998 - City Council Special
a I AGENDA SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING Tuesday May 26,1998 5:00 P.M. Municipal Center Community Room 1. ROLL CALL & ADOPTION OF AGENDA H. VISITORS TO BE HEARD III. REVIEW PROCESS FOR 1999 GENERAL FUND OPERATING BUDGET IV. DISCUSSION RE: PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ORDINANCE V. BUILDERS ASSOCIATION PRESENTATION VI. REVIEW TRAIL MAINTENANCE POLICY VII. SPRINKLING BAN ENFORCEMENT OPTIONS VIII. REVIEW ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN & DISCUSS VARIOUS OPERATIONS FOR THE FAMILY AQUATIC POOL FACILITY IX. REVIEW DESIGN ELEMENTS -PICNIC SHELTER BLDG X. OTHER BUSINESS XI. ADJOURNMENT MEMO city of eagan TO: HONORABLE MAYOR & CITY COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: CITY ADMINISTRATOR HEDGES DATE: MAY 21, 1998 SUBJECT: SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING/MAY 26, 1998 A Special City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 26, 1998 in the Municipal Center Community Room. 1999 GENERAL FUND OPERATING BUDGET The Director of Finance and City Administrator reviewed and distributed the 1999 operating budget worksheet packets and budget calendar at the last staff meeting held on May 12. There are three major components to the budget process: 1) Department Heads prepare departmental budgets during May/June; 2) Finance Department completes revenue estimates, City Administrator and Finance Director confer with departments and City Administrator prepares draft budget document for presentation to the City Council during June/July; and 3) During the months of August and September, the City Council reviews the preliminary budget to determine and certify a proposed levy to the County Auditor and "adopt" a proposed budget. Additional refinement of the operating budget occurs during October/November and final adoption of the budget follows the truth -in -taxation hearings in the month of December. The State Legislature has continued levy limits through taxes payable in 1999. Levy limits will be calculated in the same manner as last year with growth factors for inflation and household growth and an additional adjustment will be made for increases in market value due to construction of new commercial and industrial properties. The City currently has 32 commercial projects under construction, which will add some public service demands for 1999. Leery limits will be a major limiting factor on homy much the budget can change from 1998 to 1999. The City Administrator and Director of Finance will discuss in more detail the preparation of individual department budgets. DIRECTION ON THIS MATTER: There is no action; this item is intended to be informative about the operating budget process. DISCUSSION/PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ORDINANCE Planning staff has assembled property maintenance information from surrounding communities in an effort to receive direction from the City Council relative to a property maintenance ordinance in Eagan. Detailed information regarding the scope of the new ordinance will be presented to Advisory Planning Commission members at its June 11, 1998 workshop. Over the past several months, staff has received several letters and telephone messages from parties interested in creating a property maintenance ordinance. These interested parties would be directly contacted andinvited to attend any workshop dealing with this particular issue. Enclosed on pages k through _�_ is a staff memo from the Senior Planner regarding this item. ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED: To provide direction to Planning staff and Advisory Planning Commission members regarding preparation of a property maintenance ordinance. BUILDERS ASSOCIATION PRESENTATION The Builders Association of the Twin Cities has produced a 10 -minute video entitled "The Future Is Now" which depicts the Twin Cities dwindling land supply and affordable housing issues. The Builders Association has requested approximately ten minutes to show the video tape and a representative will be available to handle questions. Advisory Planning Commission members have been invited at approximately 6:00 p.m. on the 26th to view the video prior to the start of the regular Advisory Planning Commission meeting at 6:30 p.m. Enclosed on page L is a copy of the Builders Association letter to Mayor Egan. ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED: No formal action is required. REVIENV TRAIL MAINTENANCE In accordance with Council directives, the City, staff has completed the community information meeting and tabulated the survey responses regarding the proposed winter trail and sidewalk maintenance plan. Public Works Director Colbert and Street Superintendent Erhart will be presenting the suggested modifications to the draft plan that was presented to the public along with a proposed policy for Council discussion. Consideration of adopting a fonnal plan has been scheduled for the June 2"d regular Council meeting. Based on Council's direction at the workshop session, a final plan and policy will be prepared for formal presentation at the June 2"d regular Council meeting. Enclosed on pages _through - 4L�is the Public Works Department's report of the process and input to date. Also enclosed without page number is a map of the proposed winter maintenance plan. DIRECTION TO BE CONSIDERED ON THIS ITEM: To provide staff direction regarding the Winter Trail and Sidewalk Maintenance Plan in preparation for the June 2 City Council meeting. Y ODD/EVEN SPRINKLING BAN ENFORCEMENT In 1990, the City Council formally adopted a permanent water conservation and management program that restricted lawn -sprinkling activities to an odd/even program. This was an action adopting a policy provided for under the current City ordinances. For the past •S years, the City has been enforcing this odd/even restriction through a series of mailed notification and door hanger tags. On certain occasions, the staff has enforced compliance by physically turning off the sprinkler at the hose bibs. The Public Works Director would like to discuss an option of adopting a formal ordinance regarding rules and regulations relating to outdoor water usage with a more effective method of enforcement. Enforcement could include surcharges added to the utility bill in lieu of enforcement as an ordinance violation through district court. Enclosed on pages_ and is a copy of the draft ordinance. The Public Works Director would like to discuss t is issue with the Council and get some direction as to whether this proposal should be advanced. ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED: Review odd/even sprinkling restriction policy and provide direction to staff regarding a possible ordinance amendment. REVIEW ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN & DISCUSS VARIOUS OPERATIONS FOR THE FAMILY AQUATIC POOL. FACILITY Director of Parks & Recreation Vraa will have information relative to the architectural design for the buildings that will be constructed as a part of the aquatic pool facility project. Staff is looking for direction relative to the design and materials of the two buildings. Also, staff will update the City Council on various issues regarding the operation of the family aquatic pool facility. Certainly, the discussion will not be all inclusive of all the decisions that are in front of the City in order to meet the schedule for a grand opening on June 1, 1999, but the discussion will center on some of the issues staff is working on at this time. The Council had previously requested an opportunity to review the design early in the process. Water Technology Inc. provided SX 10 photos of various facilities that reflect both design and material alternatives, which will be shared at the workshop. DIRECTION TO BE CONSIDERED: To provide direction to staff regarding architectural design/materials for the buildings proposed in the family aquatic pool facility and discussion relative to the report on various facets of the proposed operation for the family aquatic pool facility. 14 REVIEW DESIGN ELEMENTS/PARK SHELTER BUILDING As the City Council recalls, the wooden beams from the Fire Administration building were salvaged for the purpose of recycling their use into a park shelter building at the Lexington Diffley Athletic Park. The Director of Parks & Recreation would like an opportunity to review the design elements and cost of the park shelter building with the City Council. Enclosed on pages through is a copy of a memo from the Director of Parks & Recreation on this item. OTHER BUSINESS There is no other business planned for the Special City Council meeting at this time. /s/ Thomas L. Hedges City Administrator TO: FROM: DATE: city of eagan TOA] HEDGES, CITY ADMINISTRATOR MIKE RIDLEY, SENIOR PLANNER MAY 21,1998 SUBJECT: PROPERTY MAINTENANCE MEMO This memo is to update you on progress Planning staff has made relative to compiling property maintenance requirements as requested by the City Council. In contacting surrounding cities, we found that many cities do not have specific property maintenance codes, but address such items in various areas of their city codes, while other cities have specifically adopted a property maintenance ordinance addressing everything from recreational vehicle storage to insect/rodent infestation. Specifically covered in the attached memo is a summary of property maintenance items regulated by the cities of Bloomington, Burnsville, Richfield, and St. Louis Park. These communities are similar to Eagan in stages of land development/redevelopment and may provide insight into regulating property maintenance, particularly on maturing properties. This information is provided as a means to help City Councilmembers determine the scope of property maintenance that should be addressed via a new ordinance. If you would like more detailed information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Senior Planner MR/js attach. A city of eagan TO: Mike Ridley, Senior Planner FROM: Bob Kirmis, Planner DATE: May 19,1998 SUBJECT: Property Main tenance/Accessory Buildings MEMO This memorandum represents a follow-up to our conversation regarding property maintenance and accessory building items to be raised at the forthcoming 26 May Special City Council Meeting. PROPERTY MAINTENANCE At your request, I have surveyed a number of area communities in regard to property maintenance related standards that are imposed upon single family residential uses. Specific contact was made with the cities of Bloomington, Burnsville, Richfield and St. Louis Park. The purpose of this effort is to determine the general scope of regulation utilized by the aforementioned communities. The following is a summary of my investigation. Bloomington - The City of Bloomington does not have a specific "property maintenance code". Property maintenance related regulations are scattered throughout the City Code. Enforcement of property maintenance related matters are handled by a designated Environmental Health Officer. ITEM ISSUE REGULATED Recreational Vehicle Storage ➢ Use while in storage 9 Licensing/Registration i On-site storage location ➢ On -street parking duration i Number of vehicles Weeds > Maximum length/height On-site wells . Terms of mandatory municipal hook-up Garbage i Removal of accumulations Firewood > Location ➢ Volume On -street parking IMaximum number of vehicles Noise > Noise levels (dBA) 7 Burnsville -The City of Burnsville has adopted a specific property maintenance code that applies to all residential and nonresidential structures and premises in the community. The code is administered and enforced by the City's inspection department. In addition the maintenance code, the City's zoning ordinance also includes numerous property maintenance related provisions including standards specific to recreational vehicle and firewood storage. ITEM ISSUE REGULATED Recreation Vehicle Storage ➢ Ownership Short-term storage location Recreational Vehicle Storage ➢ Long-term storage location ➢ Number of Vehicles ➢ Use while in storage Weeds ➢ Maximum length/height Firewood ➢ Location ➢ Volume ➢ Short-term storage (<30 days) Sidewalks/Driveways ➢ General maintenance Accessory Structures ➢ General maintenance ➢ Garage color Foundation Walls i General maintenance Exterior Building Features ➢ General Maintenance Garbage ➢ Removal of accumulations ➢ Containers ➢ Screening Insect/Rodent Infestation r Extermination responsibilities Richfield -The City of Richfield does not have a specific property maintenance code. Property maintenance related matters are however addressed through various sections of the City Code. Property maintenance related requirements are enforced by the City's public safety department. ITEM ISSUE REGULATED Outside Storage ➢ Unlawful vehicle types Permissible storage (exceptions) Recreational Vehicle Storage ➢ Long term storage location Short term storage location 9 Use while in storage ➢ Licensing Noise 9 Noise levels (dBA) ➢ Operational hours for outdoor power equipment Animal (pet) noise N r.V . St. Louis Park - St. Louis Park does not have a specific property maintenance code. The City has however recently adopted a highly detailed set of regulations pertaining to vehicle parking (including recreational vehicles) in residential zoning districts. Property maintenance matters are handled through the city's inspection department. ITEM ISSUE REGULATED Recreational Vehicles > Maximum height ➢ Maximum length ➢ Maximum weight ➢ On-site storage location/setback from adjacent residences ➢ Number of vehicles Ownership Off -Street Parking 7 Location/setbacks ➢ Maximum driveway coverage and width ➢ Garage Use Fish Houses ➢ Prohibition Firewood ➢ Exfoliation (elm wood) ACCESSORY BUILDINGS Based upon past experience (and recent discussions with members of the Inspection Department), it has become evident that several provisions of the City's accessory building standards are unclear in regard to desired application. Of specific issue are accessory building setbacks and the means by which maximum allowable accessory storage area is determined. This lack of ordinance "clarity" has resulted in inconsistent interpretations by both the Planning and Inspections Departments. To remedy this situation, it is suggested that staff request authorization to proceed with an ordinance amendment addressing accessory building requirements. q. AMIX ST111 • BUILDERSASSOCIATIOn" OF THE T-WIV CITIES April 29, 1995 Mayor Thomas Egan City of Eagan 864 Great Oaks Trail Eagan, MN 55122 Dear Mayor Egan: The Builders Association of the Twin Cities is requesting approximately 10 minutes of time during one of your next Council or Planning Commission meetings to show you an important new videotape that could affect the future of your community. The Builders Association of the Twin Cities has produced a 1;0 -minute video entitled, 'The Future is Now,' which dramatically depicts the Twin Cities dwindling land supply and affordable housing issues: This video features local officials stating in their own words. the severity of the crisis. Our request is to show you a copy of the videotape and to leave the copy with you for use at your discretion. If time permits after the presentation, a representative from the Builders Association will be available for a'brief discussion. We are available at your convenience to present this very important video to your planning commission and your council. Please call'Ivlary Schweich (697-7572) to schedule a presentation. Sincerelv, Gary Laurent, " Chairperson Karen Christofferson Public Policy Committee Director,of'Public Policy cc: Thomas Hedges, City Administrator Mike Ridley, Senior Planner io 296o Centra Pointe Drive R0i,!V (a. Minnec'rta 55113-1122 6121697.195.4 Fax 6121697-7599 Parade Fax 6121697-7575 es' city of eagan TO: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL C/O THOMAS L HEDGES, CITY ADMINISTRATOR FROM: THOMAS A COLBERT, DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS DATE: MAY 22,1998 MEMO SUBJECT: DRAFT WINTER TRAIL/SIDEWALK ALAIN"I'ENANCE PLAN & POLICY Sidewalks were first installed by the developers during the early development stages of Eagan's growth during the late'60's and early `70's (Cedar -vale, Valley View Apartments, Silver Bell Road, etc.). Trailways began to be installed as County roads, and other arterials/collectors were upgraded to urban standards. An integrated community wide trail system was first identified in the 1982 Park and Trail System Plan for the City of Eagan, which stated that trails should be constructed primarily along arterials and collector roadways at the time of roadway improvements. A random survey of actual sidewalk and trial users in 1988 and 1990 provided the following results of usage: 1988 1 USE 11990 41% Exercise 36% 18% Recreation 11% 18% Transportation 17% 23% Recreation/Exercise 35% In January of 1995, the City's Park System Plan was again updated which incorporated a trail system element. That plan recommended that multi -season use of the City's trailway system should be considered. It was recognized that winter trail use and related snow plowing activities will be in higher demand as Eagan matures and its population continues to increase. The 1995 trail system plan states "prudent decision making regarding snow plowing must consider the actual amount of trail use gained given the level of investment required". Also, Goal #8 of the Trail System Plan states: "Update the City ordinance concerning the responsibility of property owners to perform snow removal on sidewalks in residential areas". On October 15, 1996, the City Council adopted an experimental program for winter trail and sidewalk maintenance in limited locations primarily. serving designated walkers to: local elementary schools. Under this program, 2.2 miles of trailways were maintained by the' City under contractual services and 1.6 miles of residential sidewalks were maintained by adjacent property owners under a new ordinance. This 3.8 mile experimental program was performed during the 1996-'97 and '97-'98 winter season. At the conclusion of the '97-'98 winter season, the City Council began discussions regarding the future of this current program. At a March 24, 1998, City Council Workshop, the City Council held preliminary discussions regarding the community's interest in winter maintenance of sidewalks and trails. They supported an expansion of the current experimental program adopted in October of '96 (3.8 miles). However, there was consensus that it was not fiscally prudent to provide winter maintenance on the entire 110+ mile system. They'directed staff to create aprocess of soliciting community input for Council consideration of adopting a formal program. The City Council also reviewed the survey results of several other community ordinances regarding public vs. private property owner obligations. At an April 7, 1998 Council Workshop, the City Council reviewed 2 plan options and approved a draft plan consisting of 45+ miles for presentation to the community and solicitation of public comment. They also ratified a process for public input and comment summarized as follows: DATE I PROCESS ACTIVITY May 4 (7 pm) Community meeting (live cable cast) April 25 & 29 News releases to local papers May 5-15 Cable rebroadcast & open comment period May 26 (6 pm) Council Workshop review June 2(7 pm) Formal council consideration COM\SLT\TITY MEETfNG On May 4, 1998, at 7:00 p.m., a community meeting was held in the City Council Chambers with a panel presentation by Public Works Director Tom Colbert, Street/Equipment Superintendent Arnie Erhart and Park Superintendent Paul Olson. A copy of the agenda, summary of the meeting and attendance list are attached as Appendix A. A formal survey with a short explanation of the questions and issues was made available to the general public. Of 99 survey forms picked up, 31 (31%) were retumed. A summary of the responses is attached as Appendix B to this report. Question 2 under Section B (Quantity of Trail System Maintained) inquired about the adequacy of the proposed plan. The following additional segments were suggested in descending order of frequency response: h� 2 cv. %TVM, I TGRV11N1 I RFOIIEST I LENGTH Wilderness Run Rd. Pilot Knob to Elrene 4 2.7 mi. Elrene Rd. Yankee Doodle Rd. to Dodd Rd. 3 2.0 mi. Northview Pk. Rd. Lexington Ave. to Elrene Rd. 2 plus petition of 43 1.5 mi. Deerwood Dr. Pilot Knob Rd. to Denmark l - 0.4 mi. Also, in response to a community meeting comment, the segment of Diffley Road from Braddock Trail to Dodd Road could be shifted to the north side to maintain same -side continuity. Another comment suggested that the Pilot Knob Road segment be maintained to its connection with Apple Valley for continuity. This would require either adding an additional I mile along the west side from Cliff Road to Apple Valley or switching the proposed east side to the west. However, this would not serve as many local residents. Staff is recommending that the portion of Red Pine Lane from Hwy. 3 to Biscayne Avenue be deleted in the final plan adoption. Staff is also suggesting that the sidewalk along Hawthorne Woods Drive (0.2 miles) from Diffley Road to Hackmore Drive be added for continuity Attached as Appendix E is a copy of the draft plan that was presented to the community with the modifications as requested by the community responses and suggested by staff. • 0M J0 1 wal"Jam"M In addition to the community meeting and formal survey, residents were encouraged to submit comments by letter, e-mail, fax, etc. Each of these comments was Forwarded to the City Council with the weekly Informative Memo update as they were received. Therefore, a summary of the comments received is enclosed as Appendix C to this report. After evaluating the comments received from the community, the City Council should modify or reaffirm the current operational policy used by City forces to perform any aspect of the Winter Trail and Sidewalk Maintenance Plan. The following is the current City policy for Council consideration: (Staff recommendation in parenthesis.) I. Onlv sidewalks and trails designated for walkers to elementary schools (3.8 miles) will be required to be maintained year around. Modification: Winter maintenance shall be performed on all trails and sidewalks so designated on an official map adopted by resolution by the City Council and kept on file in the Department of Public Works. 2. Snow removal shall be required after a minimum snow accumulation of 2". Modification: (None recommended.) 13 3 3. Begin removal operations within 24 hours after snowfall cessation. Modification: (None recommended.) 4. Complete snow removal within 24 hours after the start-up. Modification: (None recommended.) 5. City removal operations will be performed through contractual services. Modifications: (None recommended.) 6. Winter maintenance will be limited to snow removal only and will not include ice control. No sand or de-icing chemicals will be applied. Modifications: (None recommended) 7. No handwork will be performed under City operations. (Level of service will be limited to a typical efficiency associated with mechanical equipment). Modifications: (None recommended) 8. Clean up of windrows and spillage in driveways resulting from City snow removal operations will be the responsibility of the affected property owner. Modification: (None recommended) 9. The City will not be liable for any incidental damage to turf, driveways, irrigation systems or landscaping located within public easements or rights-of- way. Repair and restoration will be the responsibility of the adjacent property owner unless caused by operator negligence. Modification: (None recommended) 10. Anv obstructions existing on or encroaching into the trailway system (vehicles, refuse containers, toys, implements, etc.), will result in the City skipping that segment and the violating property owner will be responsible for performing the snow removal within the required time frame or the costs incurred by the City to do so if noncompliance continues. Modifications: (None recommended) 14 a MENOIRDINKIRW49'M The City Council should determine to what extent adjacent property owners should be responsible for snow removal of public trails and sidewalks. Currently, under the experimental program, adjacent property owners of certain local residential sidewalks have been responsible for snow removal under the October 1996 ordinance revision. The areas affected by this ordinance have been the Hawthorne Woods development near Pinewood Elementary School and the Windcrest Addition along Denmark Avenue near Glacier Hills Elementary School. Although both neighborhoods were covered under the same ordinance, Denmark Avenue is classified as a neighborhood collector with a 44' wide street as compared to the Hawthorne Woods local residential streets at 32' wide. The sidewalk along Denmark Avenue was installed as a part of the City's trail system's plan and the wider collector street results in more snow being deposited on the boulevard and adjacent sidewalks. The Hawthorne Woods residential neighborhood had the sidewalk installed by the developer and is not identified on the Master Trail System Plan. The local residential streets (32') are 38% narrower with less snow being deposited from street plowing operations. Due to the numerous variables associated with each neighborhood, street classification/width, trail function, etc., it is very difficult to identify specific quantifiable criteria to designate on a policy basis as to which segment should be maintained by adjacent property owners. Therefore, it is recommended that if private maintenance is to be required by ordinance, the affected property should be identified by a map approved by resolution of the City Council and kept on file in the Public Works Department. Also, if there is an ordinance requiring private property maintenance, the level of effort expended by the City for inspection, notification, enforcement and fee collection should be weighed against cost and effort to perform this snow removal as a part of overall operations. The October 1996 ordinance stipulates the following: (Staff recommendation in parenthesis.) 1. Snow removal shall be performed by property owners on concrete sidewalks in residential zones only as designated by Council resolution. Modification - 2. Snow must be removed within 24 hours of deposit. Modification: (Stipulate a minimum accumulation along with the beginning and completion times in conformance with the City's operational policy.) 15 3. If property owner is in noncompliance, the City will: • Issue notice of violation with order to comply. • Perform work -and bill the property owner after 12 hours of issuing violation. • Certify as a special assessment property tax all penalties not received within 4. Property owner cannot deposit snow back`,into the street. Modification: (None recommended.) If the City Council supports some private maintenance ordinance, it may want to consider certain land use criteria such as schools (9 elementary, 2 middle, and 1 high school), commercial areas (Cliff Lake Centre; Promenade, Town Centre, Cedarvale) and/or local residential sidewalks. Presently, tax exempt school districts perform a limited amount (4 miles) of snow removal on public trails. As mentioned earlier under the survey responses,, several requests have been received for adding various segments to the draft plan presented to the ptlilic. It is estimated that each additional mile of trailway added will cost approximately 53,500 per year. Appendix D shows the tax impact resulting from every $100,000 of program costs to various residential home valuations. Based on the information provided in this report and''previously submitted to the City Council,. the City Council can make a final determination for the scope and extent of a winter maintenance program for the community's trails and sidewalks. Depending upon the direction provided by the City Council at the May 26 Workshop, a ,formal policy document and ordinance can be prepared for formal consideration at the June 2 meeting:' Respectfully submitted, Director of Public Works TAC/ii Cc: Arnie Erhart, Superintendent of Streets/Equipment G 11RfIMEM0�w5mnTrvl.Niiumv+c�rlm /p 6 COMPNIUNITY MUETIN 5�UNIMARY WINTER',NNIATINTENANCE OF TRAILS,& SIDEWA�LXS 1� COMMUN, IT-YMEETING toAistuss, PROPOSED, WINTER MAIINXTME'N'"ANCE of TRAILS and -SIVEA{AILKS MONDAY,:M,.,k;Y 4,,.� 1998 7:00 P.Nl,. CITY COUNCIL CiIANIBERS 1. INTRODUCTIONS - I Ii. COMMUNITY HISTORY OF TRAILS AND SIDEWALKS 111. CURRENT MA NNTENANCE;'PROGRAMS �Q POLICIES Rz OTHER CITIESPROGRAMSAND,P"C�.T�ICES�,(VIDEO) V. EAG N'S -2 YR. E)T. ERIM'ENTAL PRO- F�AM VI. DECI5ION,:ELEMENTS OFlPROPOSERPkOGRAlvl A. SCOPE/EXTENTT OF PROGRAM B. TIMETRNNIE FOR SERVICE DELIVERY C. SNOWFALLACCUMILATIONS D. RESPONSIBLE PARTIES E. COST OF PROPOSALS F. FUNDING Vii. D8CfSIONlMAKJNG PR&ESS VIII. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS IX. ADJOURN �113.1 191111• • At 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 8, 1998, a public informational community meeting was held in the City Council Chambers of the Municipal Center to present the proposed winter maintenance plan for trails and sidewalks. A panel presentation was provided by Tom Colbert, Director of Public Works, Arnie Erhart, Superintendent of Streets/Equipment and Paul Olson, Superintendent of Parks. 26 citizens signed the attached attendance sheet. The meeting was cable casted live over Meredith Cable Channel 16 and taped for rebroadcasting at various times on May 7, 9, and 10. Public Works Director Colbert began the meeting with introductions and then proceeded to provide a community history of the construction and maintenance of sidewalks and trails within the City of Eagan. This history referenced the 1982 Park & Trail Systems Plan, trail users survey conducted in 1988 and 1990 and goals and policy statements identified in the 1995 Parks Systems Plan. Superintendent Erhart then briefly discussed the City's structural and operational maintenance programs and policies along with personnel and equipment resource availability. Superintendent Olson then summarized the results of other suburban communities' maintenance programs and showed a 3 - minute video of winter maintenance operations. Director Colbert then explained the current winter maintenance policy and ordinance associated with the limited experimental program adopted in October of 1996. He then followed with a presentation of the various decision elements and criteria options associated with creating a new or expanded winter maintenance program. These elements incorporated such things as scope/extent of program, time frame for service delivery, snowfall accumulation, responsible parties and ordinances, cost of various proposals and the tax impacts associated with funding various program levels. Mr. Colbert then reviewed the decision making process adopted by the Council incorporating the community meeting, surveys, public comment period and formal Council ratification and ordinance adoption. At the conclusion of the presentation, the meeting was then opened to the public for general comments and questions. Cherie Weston, 1205 Carlson Lake Lane, questioned if and how safety was taken into consideration in preparing proposed plan and policy. Also, to what extent is the City liable for maintenance or lack thereof. Mr. Colbert responded by reiterating the Council's concern and sensitivity to the safety of its citizens while also maintaining their responsibility being fiscally responsible with public funds in establishing new programs with an appropriate service delivery level. Mr. Colbert also indicated the courts have recognized discretionary immunity for local elected decision makers if an appropriate planning process and formal policies are responsibly adopted. M Steve Weston (same address) then questioned about the various multiple cross -overs of Diffley Road as compared to maintaining the same side. Mr. Colbert explained the rationale that went into preparing the draft plan and if there was interest and support to change any segment, the Council would be willing to give due consideration. Mr. Weston then stated that the City of Eagan appeared to be the only City to not plow its trailways and reiterated the safety concern resulting from no trail maintenance. He stated support for having Northview Park Road and Wilderness Run Road added to the program. He also stated his belief that there is greater recreational benefit provided to the community for the limited dollars spent on winter maintenance than for general construction dollars spent on some of the other communities' recreational facilities. Rachel Lewine, 3873 Westbury Drive, inquired about the comparison of maintenance costs for Eagan's proposed plan as compared to other communities who already provide winter maintenance. Superintendent's Erhart and Olson responded that many communities do not perform a separate cost accounting for their sidewalk and trail maintenance. Ms. Lewine then stated her support for plowing trails on both sides of the street to provide more variety to the users and encouraged the City to plow the streets to the curb line where onstreet safety lanes are designated. Tom Eyre, 1372 Interlachen Drive, commended the City for the good start on a winter maintenance program. He inquired about the City's liability for injuries to the public who may use the trail system and what obligations the City had to accommodate wheelchairs. Mr. Colbert responded that a research of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations through State and Federal authorities revealed that there is no written guidelines or criteria and that many of Eagan's traihvays do not meet ADA criteria due to the slopes on steep grades. Mr. Colbert also responded that when the wheelchair fatality occurred on Lexington Avenue, there was less than 1" of snow covering the adjacent trailway. Mary Anderson, 4047 Camberwell Drive N., identified herself as a member of the Minnesota Distance Runners Association and the Hills of Stonebridge Homeowners Association. She felt the City was recreating the wheel and should just implement the program that other cities are currently using. She also felt that the percentage of users of the trail system is greater than the number of users for the City's Ice Arena. Bob Klecker, 3653 Widgeon Way, stated that if the City could finance the Aquatic Park and the Ice Arena, it could certainly finance winter maintenance of the City's sidewalks and trails. The City has the first basic responsibility of safety to its citizens. He felt that a 1" accumulation standard on one side of the road would be appropriate and that Eagan should look into the maintenance methods employed by the city of Minneapolis on the River Road trail system by the University of Minnesota near the St. Paul border. Minneapolis appeared to maintain a bare pavement up to the St. Paul border after which the quality quickly diminishes. Mike Ferber, 725 Granite Drive, encouraged Eagan to use brooms and brushes in maintaining the trails similar to St. Paul. He also suggested that Elrene and Wilderness Run Roads be incorporated into the draft plan. He stated that the onstreet safety lanes were not adequate due to the amount of slush that accumulates there. Mark Niznik, 3284 Donald Avenue, stated his desire for winter maintenance to provide a method of transportation to work. When asked if he uses the trails to get to a bus system, he replied that he walks to work at Lockheed Loral and finds it very difficult to do so along Yankee Doodle Road. Tish Whetstone, 917 Curry Trail, commented that the usage of the trails and sidewalks will go up if they are maintained year round. By doing so, it will create another recreational program for the citizens. Elaine Eyre, 1373 Interlachen Drive, re-emphasized and supported the safety and health issues raised by others at the meeting. Daryle Peterson, 4126 Lantern Lane, inquired regarding the use of contractual vs. existing City personnel. Superintendent Erhart provided information regarding the deployment of current personnel and equipment for street, parking lot and ice rink maintenance operations. Mr. Peterson then stated he is in favor of the proposed plan and would like to see the Council adopt it. Dick Klatt, 1270 Deer Ridge Court, stated his support for the proposed program and suggested that the City pay for and perform all winter maintenance operations rather than having adjacent property owners being held responsible through an ordinance. There being no more comments or questions, the Public Works Director then thanked everyone for attending and declared the meeting adjourned but offered the availability of City staff on an informal basis for any follow-up questions. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Prepared v: Director of Public Works TAC/jj G llRCM1SC/Min.amRrilMvaNq INFORMATIONAL MEETING PROPOSED WINTER MAINTENANCE OF TRAILS & SIDEWALKS MONDAY, MAY 4,1998,7:00 P.M. NAME ADDRESS 1. Cln. .<+ C�re (✓%: 1 2.I /J r.- Ey 1I< 3.�leK KLA- 171 4. CA c K /lir l�kJS�� 5. mak 6. iA:�Ni�Y ��f.lz 7. 7 � 0,6e, ly A rckc ke 1 I-4�w, V.e 9. ZZ)loK Loot ,vse-12— L; �, MCI), l�lar dP✓Sv+, 17. ! c •. -1 h" e 18. L?& IA AV. 1 19. x1nA2� V 1NL4�y� 20.y_ C� fC el e�je.( KFORMS/Sign-In 1 '� iz v DEFRRIl)Cf Cr - 32 Yy r- 32Yy D0.,,1� A�e �i 1, l I P. E hi k W t 1. III `r ,2,b65 (2oe9 L Ll}, .tela W�tb Dr. 43-5- (7 3.5(7Errcip✓, = e- )091 Po4vlPw- 36-zK C V0e. 14 Capliterwell X33 gi, ire yS v- �-,� NAME 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 41 40 ADDRESS Lei Lt COMMUNITY . TRSi VFY_ SUMMARY WINTER MAINTENANCE OF TRAILS & SIDEWALKS Z -q Ott B'. QUANTITY OF TR"45IL'.SYSTEAI.:1I':4INTAINED j In your: opinion;.. 1) Would this- proposed Winter Trail. Alaintenance Plan. meet the basic>'needs of the ; Community? 24 _: Yes; 10 No If no, "-by not'. • We need more major roads;plowed I would like'aosee added that citizens be responsible f for clearing sidewalks (not trails) in front of their property. Also; would like to; see some collector " • Not•:extensrve enough', - • Keep mlmtna no patty: at Ulm Rcl .h.ot Ytlot _Knot): Should db Wildemes'sl • Look-There,aY manyloggers - . We�need`more trails'deared: walkers, kids, visnmg friends .etc.,who•walk,on these. roads. -- • No, but tt•sa start- ' - • Several residents-stilPiack safe access to the'se-"rnajor -- � trails: • hsstarts'to addr`es"s6the:piol lems�but;does;noi.' • 'Moretrails i eedito be,plou•ed thatileadi[oyparks, CITY OF EACAN SUNTSItATION OF SURVEVkESP©NSES ' PRO POSE9D'NN?', !�'TERrMAII�TEN4AnCE OF``TRA►IES NN1,D SIDEWALKS k Survey Copies Picked Up: 99' bate: 5/21/98 Surveys,Retumed: 3.1 Percent: -`31%0 A.iREASONS:FOR NN`iNT)E^R'jTRAIL-USE (Ranked by level of importance with 1 the highest) i ACTIVITY (1); (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) Walking=Paths to Schools 11 6 5 5 1 1 1 'NV,alking to:aotdNit o,w'mter 0 6 31 5 6 9 I ' Parks'andRecreation Facilities Walking: Along M_ajorArterial 6 9 6 5 4 0 0 andrCollector Roads Walking to Bus Stops 1 3 1.1 2 4 8 1 Walking to CommerciatrStores 2 2 3 7 10 4 2 Completed%Connected Loops, 9 2 2 3 a5 8 1 for Exercising Ott B'. QUANTITY OF TR"45IL'.SYSTEAI.:1I':4INTAINED j In your: opinion;.. 1) Would this- proposed Winter Trail. Alaintenance Plan. meet the basic>'needs of the ; Community? 24 _: Yes; 10 No If no, "-by not'. • We need more major roads;plowed I would like'aosee added that citizens be responsible f for clearing sidewalks (not trails) in front of their property. Also; would like to; see some collector " • Not•:extensrve enough', - • Keep mlmtna no patty: at Ulm Rcl .h.ot Ytlot _Knot): Should db Wildemes'sl • Look-There,aY manyloggers - . We�need`more trails'deared: walkers, kids, visnmg friends .etc.,who•walk,on these. roads. -- • No, but tt•sa start- ' - • Several residents-stilPiack safe access to the'se-"rnajor -- � trails: • hsstarts'to addr`es"s6the:piol lems�but;does;noi.' • 'Moretrails i eedito be,plou•ed thatileadi[oyparks, 2) Is there a segment that you feel should be added to this Community Plan? —15 Yes 13 No If Yes, where and why? • Continue trail maintenance S. on the W. side of • I'm not familiar w/the entire road network. If you must Pilot Knob where the proposed plan ends now to start by doing only 45 miles, target the following meet w/the Apple Valley's trail maintenance. year(s) to build up to all 110 miles. • Wilderness Run • 1 feel that it would be beneficial to have all collector streets added as I do not feel the shoulder is safe for walking under winter conditions. • Elrene, Northview Pk. Rd. • All trails outside of parks. But especially those segments to the borders of the City. See map for small segments of Pilot Knob. Cliff & Blackhawk. connecting points for other trails. 2. City park trails. 3. All remaining sidewalks. • Deerwood, between Denmark & Pilot Knob. It • Deerwood Dr. E. of Pilot Knob. Hieh volume a completes a loop that lots of people use. particular times due to church & Deerwood Elem. Can routinely exceed speed limit. Safety lane nearly non- existent in winter. • All the way up Dodd, Elrene, Wilderness Run • At an average annual cost of less than S20nax base payer, I think many people would agree to pay this extra for clear, safe walks. ALL OF THEM. • Feel Wilderness Run needs to be added. Kids on • The Highline Trail should be done. activity buses get dropped of there, but must walk to Lexington then S. — very unsafe. No path on Cliff — People living near Cliff will have to go to Diffley for E -W cleared paths — need access to Traop Farm during winter. i In your opinion; 1) How quickly should trail and sidewalk snore removal operations begin (and/or be required of property owners) after a snowfall has stopped? 24 hours 20 36 hours 5_ 48 hours _ 2 Other 4 Specify: • After streets have been cleared • Immediately after street plowing Right away • After snow plows gone through so no 2 time needed M 2) How long after the starting time should all trails and sidewalks be cleared? 24 hours 14 36 hours 48 hours 7 Other 3 Specify: • As long as clearing is in progress at a As long as it takes. I have no idea. predetermined rate, this time may vary based on snow level • Depends on the storm. If the paths are not safe, they they should be plowed — even if it is still snowing. Safety should be the main concern. 3) Would you expect the same level of service to be performed (as indicated above) on weekends and/or holidays realizing it may cost more? 17 Yes I2 No. If no, what would be reasonable? The time could be the same excluding weekends . Again, safety should be the driving concern. 1 and holidays. If snow is consistently removed, it don't know the traffic levels on weekends — would be rnanaeeable until the plow came. It some routes should be cleared — some might not wouldn't build up like all winter. need to be. • Begin early Alonday andbr day following a • 48 — 11 hours , holiday, or immediately following street plowing. • Weekends — yes. Safety is the issue — not the . Stan the clock on the next regular workday for day. Look for companies who provide the removal. service at the same daily rate. Holidays can wait for removal. • City should clear one side of arterial B collector a As early as possible the following work day. streets and '/2 mile distance to schools. Residents responsible for clearing should adhere to same level of service, exceptions create confusion and make for uneven results. • Stan snow removal on the next available e 48 hours weekday (non -Holiday) • Let's save overtime costs for the first year. aa1 D. FREQUENCY -OF SNON]'�REMOVAL K 1),.Howmuch accumulation would be acceptablepbefore snot_ remos•al is required? t` '/_ inch I I inch 8 [ 2 inches 46 3 inches 3 i, c r Other 3 F: S103V:RF��10VALwRFSP.•O\SIBILITY 1) Do you beliese.Eagari'-sbouldrha�e anRordmanc requiring.phopert} iowueis_to maintain + cr trails,and�sidewal6sadjacentjfo'rth'eu�f�.opert,Nr',_--21_Yes 8 No. 3 Side,«;alksiOnly 2) If }'es, would con support an exemption forSfngle FamtlyaHomeste"ads that areyaijacent' x r to trails along arterial and major collector rii d v'ays.7 20_•Ves 3 No. F: FL'e1DI NG 1) N%'ould }*ou;'support:a taa:ioerease toifinance thisEi 24 Yes Z No. If Yes,.how much per -year? ' $5 5 (2 of which this category is;preferred) 510 9 (2 of which this.category is -acceptable) $15 ; 4 $25 _ 5 Other 5• If no, hoiv should ii -be funded? • As required • Upto;550/yr. ; • Whateverit.takes • Whatever-il tykes • S60/vr. G. GENERAL I\`•50R11t4T10\ AND-COMAMENTS 1) How did you learn about the details- ofthis Winter TrailAlaintenance plan? Attended Community Meeting 13 Local newspaper, articles 22 Cable T.V. broadcast 3 Friends, neighbors 11 Called City Hall 2 Other 8 Notice in Library (4), Neighbors discussing what they heard on Cable 1 inquired on,Eagan'splins to start clearing trails. after very naiou•ly'leing hit by 2 cars on one single run last year ('97-'98). 1 was forced to run on roads while snowmobiles used the trails. • Council meeting •'Saw plan. at City Hall' 2) Please provide any additional comments that you believe would be helpful to the City Council in considering a new and expanded service to the taxpayers. 1 would not use the trails at all, however, I feel it would be best for he community as a whole if this were done. It is ridiculous to ignore these pathways for half the year. This is Minnesota, not Florida. We can't just forget about an important component of our community just because it snows. For a moment, forget about what is being done now as policy and imagine what a new member of our community might expect the first time it snowed. Wouldn't it make sense that the roadways and trails that are used in the summer months are 111 still available for the winter months? And a final thought — tax dollars built these trails so it is reasonable to expect that tax dollars would maintain them. Just because we haven't done this in the past, it does not mean that we should not do it now! Thanks! It was stated several times during the meeting I attended that the City of Eagan maintains our trails for three of our seasons. When you stop and think about it the 3 seasons combined total around 6-7 months which means the citizens of Eagan are unable to use the trails for the other 5-6 months of the year. That is unacceptable! If our winters only lasted 2-3 months, I would not expect the trails and sidewalks to be cleared during winter but that isn't the situation in Eagan MN. My husband and I voted in favor of the ice hockey arena even though no members of our family use it. We voted for the arena because we felt there was a need for it. I know the City hasn't done a formal survey on how many of its citizens actually use the trails, but I can assure you that the numbers are much larger than the number of people that use the ice arena. Having the trails maintained year around provides an excellent source of recreation, exercise, and safety for the citizens of Eagan. The Council and City staff did an excellent job presenting our options, plans and costs. I have two concems. One is that internal trails will not be plowed. Perhaps this could be done after a deeper accumulation (i.e., 4") and not be such exacting standards (not completely clear to pavement; unless that poses legal liability concerns). I use the trails and parks all year around. Having previously lived in Minneapolis, I miss not having the trails plowed, as they do those around the lakes. My other concern is with not plowing collectors with less than 3,000 cars.'day, etc. Deenvood Dr. east is a prime example. In both day and evening, St. John Neumann's has a high rate of traffic and, at times, so does Deerwood Elementary. Cars routinely appear to exceed the speed limit. And in winter, the "safer• shoulder' is narrow and icy. Add to that the risk of cars sliding on the ice/snow into the "safety shoulder" and ,you can understand which I prefer, the sidewalks! We have many children in our neighborhood (and we have one of our own "on the way"). Please make it safe for them! Hou is Eagan different from any of its surrounding communities? It is the only City in the area that does not have a policy of clearing snow from its walkways. This unconscionable policy in the name of savine money forces our children and other pedestrians to walk in the traffic during the most dangerous time of the year when dark winter limits visibility and snow compromises the maneuverability of our cars. Nothing more need to be said. For safety -sake, our sidewalks along the busy arterial roads at the very lest must be plowed. A tragedy adjacent to an unplowed sidewalk is not the legacy this City Council wants to leave. This policy of no snow removal has other interesting implications and effects. We are discouraging our citizens from walking during the winter. Even a short trip by foot now becomes unsafe. We get less exercise and use more fossil fuel. While neither of these have significant impacts upon our health and our environment, they definitely do not promote the general welfare of our community. No snow removal is a poor management of our resources. Why build these paths and trails if they are unusable for almost half the year. Plow and you will find that the walkways will be far more widely used than other recreational facilities such as the ice arena and at far less maintenance cost. Granted, you can not chane for admission to our trails, but (lien our residents will not have to drive to St. Paul to run on clear paths as several of our citizens do. 30 The analysis of the trail system for inclusion in a plowing program has uncovered some glaring inadequacies of the trail system. On Lone Oak Road, just east of Pilot Knob Road, is a short missing segment of walkway along a dangerous roadway less than a block from an elementary school. Is it possible that there is no sidewalk over Highway 77 along Cliff Road? But probably the most dangerous lack of pathway is along Town Center Drive. Clearing our sidewalks during the winter is going to cause our taxes to increase. It appears that that is inevitable. The Council should explore ways to minimize those costs such as requiring that commercial properties be responsible to keep adjacent public walks passable. Keeping our pathways useable during the winter for recreational use and convenience is desirable. The cost will far be exceeded by benefits for the people of Eagan. Keeping our pathways useable for safety sake is absolutely a necessity. The plan before the City Council is inadequate, but it is a minimum that at least must be adopted. For exercising — I would be willing to drive to an area where 1 could walk 3 — 4 miles in a circle, on a sidewalk or bike trail. I don't think we need a shoveled path in every neighborhood — other people have said the same thine. Anywhere — where it wold be safe. I think kids who walk to school should not walk on the road at all. Near Town Center, people should be able to walk around from store area to store area without going on a road• especially the handicapped. There was no reason for that man to be killed while on the road in a wheelchair. We have people living in Eagan who do not have cars and need to push strollers, carry heavy bags, etc. They need to be safe. The trail maintenance program is a good idea for the following reasons: 1) It will promote safety. 2) It will provide an opportunity to run errands, walk to bus stops and get exercise in winter. 3) It will enable full trail system utilization (the system continues to wear out from weather and age during the 40% of each year it is snow covered and totally useless). 4) The price is a bargain for the benefits it will buy. 5) This is Minnesota! E don't cease outdoor activity in winter. 6) Neighboring cities do it and we should, too. if we do not, Eagan will get a reputation of being lax with services and this could adversely affect property values. In the informational meeting by City staff, the difficulties of clearing the trails were highlighted in a video. Any worthwhile endeavor will brine challenees and difficulties. However, we can overcome these and get the job done as other cities have done. The deeree of caution the Council has exercised in making a decision on trail maintenance is surprising. This should be an easy decision given the cost vs. the benefits, and it seems to have been approached with more trepidation than other more costly and risky decisions. We hope that the Council will proceed with' the maintenance program as proposed, at minimum. When choosing which side of the road to plow, pick the path on the sunny side of the street. It's hard for me to believe that my City representatives would even be considered a $7 million pool and then questioning a trail -cleaning plan. What percentage of people will use this pool? 10%— 15%. What percentage will use a clear path — 40% - 50%. City Council — WAKE UP! There are many of us that now run or walk in the winter if the trails were cleared. Doesn't have to get down to bare pavement. It would be SbjLI to walk on a path off the street than on the street. If we can afford to spend $7 million on pool for use for 12 weeks per year, we should be able to plow paths used for winter, which is a longer season in MN. Oct. — April (6 months). S of our children getting off activity buses during winter in the dark should have a higher priority. Work with school district on bus routes. Paths to community ice rinks (outside) need to be plowed. Goat Hill, Bridle Ridge. Need to add Wilderness Run — no path on Cliff from Pilot K to Hwy. 3. �I One side of major arterials — OK. If the City determines a 2" snowfall for plowing, what happens when it's 1.75" - no plowing? Another 1.75" — no plowing. Now you're up to 3.5*'— does it get plowed? This is an excellent start/reasonable. The survey showing IS surrounding communities indicates that this really is the "thing to do". This is a major safety issue for the whole community. It will make us safer walking and running and driving by getting people off the roads. This will help our residents stay healthier through the winter. Increased tax base due to increased property assessments in Eagan and Dakota County can be used to fund pan of project. City should run the entire program and I'll pay my fav share. I say all or none — let's do it right the fust time. Government's basic responsibility is the protection of the lives and property of its citizens. Trail maintenance is a significant safety issue in that unmaintained trails force people into the street for nearly five months of the year. Eagan cannot promote itself as a fust class city without meeting basic safety needs of its citizens. On Blackhawk Road near the Park and Ride area, the shrubs by the sidewalk are so overgrown that only one person has room to walk. Things like this should be taken care of. All sidewalks and trails should be maintained twelve months a year. No new sidewalks should be allowed without properly assessing the need. Maintenance is pan of the cost of any building project. Safety should be the primary concern. Many residents need to use sidewalks for transportation and exercise, they are a safe place for children to play. Proper maintenance will increase use of sidewalks and trails Highest priority should go to clearing a path along those streets without shoulders; these should be cleared first. Do trails along streets with shoulders and trails in residential areas later. I think Yankee Doodle Road should be plowed on the north side rather than the south side, particularly from Heritage Lane to Pilot Knob. This would better sere the high density of people living nosh of Yankee Doodle and west of Coachman Road. City needs to be more creative when looking at or proposing different methods of snow removal. Existing City equipment (with the addition of snow removal attachments) and the hiring of seasonal "on call" personnel should be analyzed for feasibility and presented as an alternative I am amazed at how much debate is going into this! This should be a "non -issue". Consider the fraction of Eagan residents using the trails compared to the fraction using the ice arena, swimming facility. I am also amazed reading the dollar amounts this would require (in the newspaper) compared to what was described at the town meeting. Will it increase by 30% to 50% again, the next time it is discussed? I was very disappointed in the presentation with the filming of various scenarios of removing snow — it couldn't have been portrayed in a more negative way! It was presented as if snow removal on paths had never been done before and as if the presenters were actually going to be out in the snow shoveling the paths. I can't believe there is even a debate when one person has already died and every other city in the metropolitan area is doing it! G 114UMISC/AVs IaSu Summa" 3 3 GENERAL COMMENTS SUMMARY WINTER MAINTENANCE OF TRAILS & SIDEWALKS city of eagan TO: TOM HEDGES, CITY ADMINISTRATOR MEMO FROM: JOANNA FOOTE, CONIMUNICATION/RECYCLING COORDINATOR DATE: MAY 19, 1998 SUBJECT: COMMENTS VIA E-MAIL REGARDING WI ITER TRAEL MALNTENANCE We have been collecting comments from the public regarding winter trail maintenance in a number of formats. This memo is a brief summary of the comments received via electronic mail. To date we have received 16 e-mails since 4-1-98. All of the comments have been in favor of maintaining trails in the winter. The City Council has had these e-mails forwarded to them in the informative memos, as the comments have been received. This is only meant as a summary of the general comments that have been included: --Implementing ordinance requiring adjacent property owners to be responsible for clearing trails/sidewalks. 6 in favor _2*_ against *Hardship would be created for many residents if required to clear trails/sidewalks adjacent to property. (1) *Involved in pilot program... if we have to clear, all property owners should have to clear, not just certain areas. --If were going to build trails we need to maintain them year round. (2) --Clear routes adjacent to major streets. (4) --Taxes have already gone up, where is all that extra money going. It should be used for this purpose (1) --Make commitment each spring to fix resulting lawn/tree damage. (2) --Would rather spend $7 million on trail maintenance than aquatic facility (1) --Willing to spend up to $40 per year to clear trails (1) --5200,000 annual program or S 14.61 per year is probably more than we need but clearing should be done. (1) --Should be paid for through property taxes/willing to pay extra. (3) --This project will help build pride in the community (1) --This should be a requirement of our City not a luxury. (1) --Include Rahn Road and Beau de rue, Nichols. (2) --Maintain trails near bus routes and clear bus stops so we don't have to stand and wait in street (4) --Dangerous for handicapped and older people. (1) --Should be cleared within 12-24 hours after snowfall. (1) --Have signed previous petitions supporting a program of this type. (1) --Should be cleared after 1-2 inches of snow falls. (1) --Please include trails near Northview Park and Elrene Road.(1) I have kept copies of all of these correspondences if you or the City Council members would like to have them. I have also received a petition from residents of the "Trotter's Ridge" neighborhood which is also attached. Please let me know if I can provide further information. Communication/Recycling Coordinator Cc: Tom Colbert, Director of Public Works Thomas P. Immen 833 Trotters Ridge Eagan, MN 55123 May 15, 1998 Mr. Tom Colbert City of Eagan 3830 Pilot Knob Road Eagan, MN 55122 Re: Winter Trail Maintenance Plan Dear Mr. Colbert: After attending the informational meeting maintenance plan, I discussed the matter Each was unaware of the survey which the very supportive of the program. on the proposed winter trail with a few of my neighbors. city was conducting but was I decided to discuss the matter with as many residents of the Trotters Ridge subdivision as I could. The result is the enclosed statement, signed by loot of the neighbors with whom I was able to discuss the issue, to support a winter maintenance plan. This group of 43 homeowners represents 90$ of our subdivision. We would like this statement to be delivered to the City Council to show our strong support for a winter maintenance plan. The city's survey also included a question which asks whether there is a segment of trail which should be added to the maintenance plan. Once again loot of the residents polled request that the segment of Northview Park Road from Lexington Avenue to Elrene be added to the maintenance program. while this section of road does not fall into the guidelines as currently proposed, there are a number of compelling reasons for its inclusion. These include: * Proximity to the High School. The road is a main access point for the High School, Middle School and Elementary School. * Many of the drivers along this route are inexperienced students traveling to and from school. * High traffic counts. * Excessive Speeds. Northview Park Road is notorious for speeding. Mr. Tom Colbert May .18, 1998 Page 2 It was also clear in my discuss�ibns with my neighbors. that all felt the City hasdft'e' -a very g6od ,job in res'q&kch' T.ngA the, ."iAs"s'up and. p,utt�ing forth a plan thatls •both practical and. Our neighborhood believes that the time has come t4dr'IlKel`�6 'adopt the program. Thank YOU for your consideration. like to ditscuss th&..;TtatterJur,t'her, during the day at 6112-820-1628. sincerely, Thomas P. Immen hrO 37 If you have any qpes.,tions or would::.; a�te please -dIt"jo� fibt: �"S�J to c'a.1'I" me. 1L_ A Trail Maintenance Comments The undersigned hereby support the proposed Eagan winter Trail Maintenance Plan. Proposed Amendment By writing yes, the undersigned supports an amendment to the plan to include the segment of Northview Park Road from Lexington Avenue to Elrene. 1 Proposed Amendment Address eoo lei 1 CS �y7Ti TTC)"'S )ZIOC, Llj�' 1tr16 fl .. t ct � - 64L7Z4a 3 �G, Trail Maintenance Comments The undersigned hereby support the proposed Eagan winter Trail Maintenance Plan. Proposed Amendment By writing yes, the plan to include the Avenue to,,Er�ne. 1_ f 1so 'j'zX undersigned supports an amendment to the segment of Northview Park Road from Lexington ItrI6 Proposed Amendment -7- Address (5-:- tn. /2 '7'7 Trail MaintenancelComments The undersigned hereby support the p Maintenance Plan. Proposed Amendment By writing yes, the undersigned sup plan to include the segment of North Avenue to Elrene. Name r Proposed Amendment osed Eagan Winter Tr,'ail an amendment to the -Park Road from Lexington Address 7geT7a)e5 lQ& 'J TI 2; &C� �.�� �s� TE,:r x> _,QzO6F PROPERTY TAX INNIPACTS WINTER MAINTENANCE OF TRAILS & SIDEWALKS 4I Tax MOP P..."PR"Opporty, 19981 Home Value.., City 1"ei $100,000 $270 $130,000 $397 $160,000 $521 $2001'000 $687' $250,000 $895 'Ta,,vino. fbrS450.000 .Pro ta-M Cost $ 3.27 4.77 $ 6.27 $ 8.27 10.76 :t. ORDINANCE NO. 2ND SERIES AN ORDINANCE OF. THE CITY OF EAGAN, MINNESOTA, AMENDING EAGAN' CITY CODE CHAPTER THREE ENTITLED "MUNICIPAL & PUBLIC UTILITIES" BY AMENDING SECTION 3.20 REGARDING RULES & REGULATIONS RELATING TO OUTDOOR WATER USAGE; AND BY ADOPTING BY REFERENCE EAGAN CITY CODE CHAPTER 1 AND SECTION 3.99. The City Council of the City of Eagan does ordain: Section 1. Eagan City Code Chapter is hereby amended by adding Subd. 13 to Section 3.20, to read as follows: Subd. 13. Outdoor wafer usage. No owner or occupant of premises shall use Citv supplied water for outdoor usage, including but not ,.limited to: sorinlding or otherwise watering his/her lain, landscaped areas or gardens: washine any car, house or drivewm,.; pool maintenance: or any other use' outdoors, in violation of this Subdivision. No owner or occupant of premises shall permit any other person to use City supplied water in violation of this Subdivision. A property with an odd -numbered address shall be permitted to use water The owner or occupant of the premises violating this Subdivision shall pay a charge as paragraph shall be billed to the owner or occupant on the utility statement for the propertk Section 2. Eagan City Code Chapter 1 entitled "General Provisions and Definitions Applicable to the Entire City Code Including 'Penalty for Violation"' and Section 3.99, entitled "Violation a Misdemeanor" are hereby adopted in their entirety by reference as though repeated verbatim. Section 3. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect upon its adoption and publication according to law. 95 ATTEST: By: E. J. VanOverbeke Its: Clerk- Date lerk Date Ordinance Adopted: Date Ordinance Published in the Legal Newspaper: 'OFEAGAN Council Thomas A. Egan Mayor city of eagan TO: CITY COUNCIL FROM: KEN YRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION PAUL OLSON, SUPERINTENDENT OF PARKS DATE: MAY 22, 1998 MEMO SUBJECT: LEXINGTON/DIFFLEY PICNIC SHELTER CONSTRUCTION Is= During the demolition of the original Fire Administration Building the large wood arch beams were salvaged with the intention of utilizing them for the construction of a picnic shelter or other park structure. Plans have since been prepared for the construction of a 2,200 square foot picnic shelter at the Lexington Diffley Athletic Complex that incorporates a number of the beams. There are several options for the construction phasing and roofing materials. An add alternate providing for the salvaging of the beams was included in the Fire Administration bid package. Approximately 17 beams were salvaged for a cost of $4,500. The beams have a replacement value of approximately $1,500 - 51,800 each if purchased new (17 @ $1,700 = S29,000±). In March the Advisory Park Commission reviewed the proposal for use of the beams and discussed the need for a picnic shelter at Lexington Diffley. Currently there is no shelter for participants or spectators. Staff and the Commission agreed that an open sided picnic shelter was needed in close proximity to both the ball fields and soccer fields. The new service buildings being constructed this summer will provide restrooms but have limited space for team gatherings or events due to their close proximity to the viewing areas. Most of the hundreds of soccer players utilizing the many fields are under 10 years of age. The Commission recommend that funding for the project be taken from the Park Acquisition and Development Fund. "Opportunity" funding had been included in the approved 2 year C.I.P. developed by the Commission for the implementation of needed projects that are the result of unanticipated positive circumstances. J4S The picnic shelter being proposed is a seasonal open -sided structure 36' x 61' covering an area of approximately 2,200 square feet. The wooden beams) are supported by footed pilaster block columns set 8' on center. The end of each beam would be cut to make them symmetrical and consistent in size. A concrete slab covers the entire ground space. There are no utilities proposed other than electricity for low level lighting and outlet boxes. Staff has received a proposal from Greystone Construction Company for the project. The proposal is based upon a phased development that utilizes contractual labor for the construction and city staff for much of the finish work. Phase I Concrete/masonry lump sum cost $24,044 I Phase II Beams and roof decking lump sum cost $19,977 Phase III (alternate) Metal roof lump sum cost I $ 7,545 (shingles deduct $1,000 - $2,000) s� The beams will create a roof with a 2/12 slope. The designer and material suppliers have indicated that a shingled roof should have a minimum slope of 3/13. A shingled roof with a slope of less than 3/12 is much more susceptible to ice and wind damage and is more likely to develop leaks. Staff is suggesting that a metal roof be used in lieu of shingles. Though slightly more expensive a metal roof is more efficient and %,ually appealing than a membrane or rolled roof which are the other alternatives to shingles. Staff is seeking direction from the Council on the material options and phasing. Work could begin in late July or early August and be completed in approximately 4-6 weeks. I I I:134b\city council 141 ZO A Special City Council meeting was held on Tuesday, May 26, 1998 in the Community Room of the Municipal Center Building beginning at 5:00 p.m. Those present were Mayor Egan and Councilmembers Awada, Blomquist, and Masin. Absent was City Councilmember Wachter. Also presetitigs:ir}:.P.rRidley, Director of Public Works Colbert, Director of Parks andRecreati'o'n \%r'a'taii'L'it ;AAministrator Hedges. Both Chief of Police Geagan and Director of Finance Vari&irbeke yiicre present to review the process of the 1999 General Fund Operating Budget. „_.. 1999 GENERAi:IRUN'b'O'P£Ret— NG BUDGET The City Administrator Hedges reviewed the process for the 1999 General Fund Operating Budget stating that the State Legislature has continued levy limits through taxes payable in 1999. He further stated that because levy limits will be calculated in the same manner as last year, it is recommended that the City reduce the number of scenarios for preparation of the 1999 General Fundl 'p4tatjng Budget. Director of Finance VanOverbeke.preseritedaivo (2) scenarios which include; (1) a budget without specific limitations and depilrtmegtal,i0t.*g'ses, and (2) a budget with a five percent increase over the 1998appropriatiprt:;klesia�eiJ'[hat these are the City Administrator's instructions for prepdtatiot':of'ihe 1999 budget, stating that limiting budget preparation of these steps is a more pi 6tical approach to preparing the 1999 General Fund Operation Budget. Director of Finance VanOverbeke further stated that it was the City Council's direction that more detail be prepared..fgr.the Police Department Budget in 1999 similar to the additional information compiled fori}ie:Ftks&i3tdEteatigd Budget prepared for this year's budget. The City Administrator stated that he.t+..,ould'like to include some performance measurement for Cite services by establishing 6- ehchma&k5 with other communities to determine how affective and efficient the City:iz:perfcrrrljkig its service delivery. City Councilmember Masin stated that if the City d&rmine§4 t a particular department is exceeding the benchmarks with other communities, what can the City do for that achievement. City Administrator Hedges stated that the information needs to be shared with the community as to how efficient and affective the City is performing its service delivery along with praise to our employees for their accomplishments. Mayor Egan thanked the City Administrator and:iiarector of Finance for their input on the budget process and stated that..IW_:it(ittJg:4rity ouncil consensus on how the City Administrator should proceed with picpAYatioiti d i?1bi1.09General Operating Budget given the two (2) scenarios. Page 2/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 PROPERTY 1t3MPG'i i:41VCE'6kDINANCE City Administrator Hedges siAW that the planning:staff has assembled property maintenance information from surrouitdiirg.communW64 in an effort to receive direction from the City Council relative to a Pr He Ordinance. He stated that the City has received a number of calls about certain Itome5'ffiat are in disrepair in neighborhoods as well as the storage of large recreational vehicles. He stated that there is some expectation that the City Council will be addressing these issues in an ordinance. Senior Planning Ridley explaioi4:0ge Wntenance and accessory building items in detail using regulatory exarripies'irori $3doriiiitgian, Burnsville, Richfield and St. Louis Park that were compiled in a report by B#2itner Bo4irmis. Mr. Ridley recognized Mr. Kirmis who was in the audience for his rastarch in preparing the report for the City Council review. Senior Planner Ridle . furthet;ttated ttj it:(he main issues for review by the City Council is recreational vehicle sia# ge iegil32pgtjs:governing the maintenance of single family homes and whether the City should provide'additional clarity in its ordinance relative to accessory buildings on single family residential properties. Mayor Egan stated that the City does need to look at accessory buildings, specifically, how man}, are too man}±:and to regulate the size of accessory buildings. In regard to property maintenance,City Cou�eiltnember Awada stated that the goal should be that properties are well maintained, so*dht�3iivs% dges,not hurt the value of other homes in neighborhoods. She stated that her main cQncem iit 2ddressing a Property Maintenance Ordinance is the exterior of buildings. Mayor Egan spoke regardingahi ivpe D#outside storage that should be regulated stating that some are more importarrt'while others are more discretionary. City Councilmember Awada again stated that property values and building values are her foremost concern and that campers and cars for sale on private property are okay, however, some discretionary enforcement is,(*,a if ihe;sale of these vehicles in any way impact surrounding properties. Senior Planner Ridley again stated thai:*6ff is 4k'ing for direction on recreational vehicles and exterior building features and natei,ery iteni.Jisted in the report such as weeds, on site wells, garbage, firewood and other reldied uses. #Ze further stated that the City has ordinances in place to address many of these other issues:' City Councilmember Blomquist stated that she has mixed emotions on the storage of recreational vehicles. Mayor Egan agreed stating that possibly the vehicles should be properly covered, if it is being stored on residential property. Senior Planner Ridley stated that in some cases a recreational vehicle is so. large that it blocks the view of neighboring property. -.Which has generated complaints and a request that the City provide some regulation on this isW. City Councilmember Masiri:9 d'##ief'i6 : 7-4:tiiould restrict the number of non - motorized vehicles to possibly one vehicle. Mayor Egan also stated that staff should revied' boarding houses in residential neighborhoods along with its review of the property maintenance ordinance. Page 3/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 After further discussion regat;i mg the proposed ordinance, it was agreed that staff would provide a summary of the orditiattce regulations refative to issues such as weeds, noise, firewood and the related, and pecta'ning to the prepatation of an ordinance, it would individually address property maintenafi¢irtuyMicle stf0i?ge and accessory buildings. There was a City Council consensus on approii Yd: tii4;P e`rty Maintenance Ordinance, first, recognizing that a draft would require a review and public hearing by the Advisory Planning Commission and eventual review and consideration by the City Council. PRESENTATIONBUILDF&&.:AwSSO L. TION.OF THE TWIN CITIES Mr. Dave May representing the BuifdeiiiAssocig(.6 of the Twin Cities appeared to show a video tape entitled "The Future is Nowwhich drarhatically depicts the Twin Cities' dwindling land supply and affordable housing' dues. I i� 4ay stated that the video was prepared by the Builders Assoc iatiort.:Mdtrtiipss;to:pt ¢'nt the severity of the crisis. Following the viewing of the video tape;,pity Coahtibiieinbers participated in a general discussion with Mr. May regarding the type of housing needs that are most desirable for the community. Mayor Egan stated that he is concerned about the issue of affordable housing and would agree to some smaller lots, but not for the entire City. Mr. May stated that it was not his intention to advocate all small lots. Mayor Egan thanked Mr. M4: -:fp. to have this discussion on future housing updating its Comprehensive Guide Plan. WINTER dialogue stating that it was appropriate te.City Council is in the process of POLICY The City Administrator Hedges stated that the City Council has held preliminary discussions regarding the community's interest in winter maintenance of sidewalks and trails at Special City Council meetings held on March 24 and April 7. On May 4, a community informational meeting was held in the City Council Chambers allowing residents to provide Public input and comment on thePropo..:.:rlmantenance program which consisted of 45 plus miles of winter maintenance:' IIe'fiiitiiet:stiiiedithat following the May 4 meeting, the public record was left open until May 15 with the understanding that all the comment results of the survey that has been distributed tEi bughou{:26e community would be reviewed at the May 26 Special City Council meeting.:;;:;:: Director of Public Works Colbert stated that in response to the community meeting held on May 4, and survey results, the draft trail maintenance plan has been revised to either add trails or reverse the side of the street the trails will be maintained due to public input. Mayor Egan raised questions about the maintenance of -the- trail on the north side of Yankee Doodle Road to the Eagan Promenade stating that it ha$been the intention of the City to promote walkers to the Promenade attd.tJlat•4egmo)ta6rail should be considered for winter maintenance. Director of Public Woik$.l A :Kl agiee l{i h the suggestion and stated that this is an example where there shouI e'a corices—tf n to'plow trails on both sides of Yankee Doodle Road west of Lexington Avenue to serve the EAgan Promenade. City Councilmember Masin asked if the same rationale should apply to the Coachman Shops located on Yankee Doodle Road and Coachman Road. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that the reason the trail maintenance proposal is only located on the south side, is due Page 4/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 to a controlled intersection at Coachi:ii8h and Yankee DaW)p allowing people to walk to the shops. City Councilmember Masin ask :'a"bout,soz.: id ice application on trails and is there any reason we are proposing to not apply i#ks:sitiiilar to city streets. Both Director of Public Works Colbert and Superintendent of Streets Erhart stated that sand and salt application on a trailway will not provide the same impact as city streets. Mr. Erhart stated that vehicular movement facilitates the thawing and melting of ice and snow and without that movement, a salt application will cause.a:pitup&go:the trails that may cause more liability than benefit. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that on6&'the winter trail maintenance program is implemented, it is expected that "itity wilF iitteive requests from residents to add certain trail segments to be included:wRh tli..:WinteYilail maintenance program. He further stated that it will be necessary16'iie4elop'a:po ky that establishes criteria as to when the City Council would consider any modifications to the established winter trail maintenance program. After further discussion, the City Council reached a consensus that a petition would be required from a minimum of 50 residents within approximately/ mile from the requested trail expansion to be given consideration. It was also determined that the criteria would include that all petitio}isiwould be presented for City Council consideration in April/May during preparation of the .ffi.4fi .. :-s ennual operating budget. Director of Public Works Colbert reminded the City Council thai'fFie:cost: is estimated at $3500 for each mile of winter trail maintenance. Director of Public Works Colber446ioi;ed'other aspects of the proposed winter trail and sidewalk maintenance plan reviewiiig'ten (I o) policies which include; (1) School districts will continue to remove snow on the sidewalks where they are currently responsible for the snow removal under the pilot program. (2) Snow removal shall be required after a minimum snow accumulation of two inches. (3) Snow removal operations will begin within 24 hours after snow fall cessation. (4) The snow removal will attempt to be completed on all trails within 24 hours after the starttip;;.(5};l (icGityTei)fQval operations will be performed through contractual services. (6) Wiiite`r'iiiaintettt+rtce-will be limited to snow removal only and will not include ice control. (7) No hand:yiibrk will:be performed under City operations. (8) Any cleanup of windows and spillage in dr.Neways' P.sulting from City snow removal operations will be the responsibility of the affi'di:d propc{#y owner. (9) The City will not be liable for any incidental damage to turf, driveways, irrigafion systems or landscaping located within public easements or right-of-way. Repair and restoration will be the responsibility of the adjacent property owner unless caused by operator negligence. City Councilmembers raised questions regarding this policy item as to the definition of incidental damage. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that it is not uncommon:when plowing trails or streets that the force of the snowplowing blade can cause some scrateftittg across the driveway surface which may raise a concern with some residetlS�;.;S.ype�intCP•deni of Streets Erhart stated that it is not always possible to plow, a straight liitQtrtfiFirai}s CbpC (ally with the first snow fall and as a result a plow blade will catch the soscap'e''maierial doing some damage. Mayor Egan suggested that residents be informed of an optior :f -:place small flag indicators along their sidewalk to help mark the plow route. After furth6t:discussion, City Councilmembers concurred with the criteria stated. (10) Many obstructions existing on or encroaching into the trailway system will result in the City skipping that segment and the violating property owner will be responsible for performing the snow removal within'the required time frame or the Page 5/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 costs incurred by the City to do so. C households have multiple cars which would cause the plow to drive over a object. After a brief discussion, City or of Public W&ks Colbert stated that some extend beyond, the sidewalk alignment which irea in order..WO around the vehicles or similar tcilsf!emk0�eed on this criteria. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that under the pilot program, trailways abutting residential property owners are plowed by the homeowner. He stated that it is the proposal of staff that all trails be plowed as a part of the contractual arrangement by the City. He further suggested that the schooldj'trictacp.4tinue;{>eTfWming snow removal as they had been doing under the pilot program. z:firiediscic8icfi, the City Council concurred with this policy to be incorporated in the City .'. nance::::::::: Paul Olson, Superintendent of Parks,;Af,3i'ed that �t blems he experienced in working for a previous community that hadavkrtb :trail-rapimtenance program, was the need to enforce the location of garbage cans outside the acfuat traiIway and further to educate commercial establishments to not dump snow from their parking lots on to the trail area. Director of Public Works Colbert summarized the winter trail maintenance program as modified stating that the City is adding seven (7) additional miles for a total of 54 miles and reminded the City Council that thi:: ost per mile is estimated at $3500 which will be included in the General Operating Bud&f4i gdesI&or 1999. Mayor Egan thanked the staff for an excellent job in developing the program'A'S':;Tireiiied by the City Council and further stated that the program will be further addressed at a.publit hearing before the Council at the June 2 City Council meeting. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that in 1990 the City Council formally adopted a permanent water conservation and management program that restricted lawn sprinkling activities to an odd/even Program. He further stated that this was an action adopting a policy provided for undej;i}ie' eia,F[eklt:Ci'tjr orsiill4nces and for the past eight (8) years, the City has been enforcing thd'od&even fesfr'rc#ion'through a series of mail notification and door hanger tags. Director of Public Woks Colbert further stated that on certain occasions, the staff has enforced comp lance by physically turning off the sprinkler at the hose bibs. The problem according to Direat0'.r of Pubiic Works Colbert is the lack of compliance by residents and the City's lack of a progratfi4b,enforce compliance for these residents who ignore the odd/even restriction. Mr. Colbert further stated that people become extremely upset if the City makes an attempt to shut off the water. He stated that one option is adopting a formal ordinance regarding rules and regulations relating to outdoor water usage for the more effective method of enforcement. Hestated that enforcement could include surcharges added to the utility bill in lieu of enfDreement as an ordinance violation through District Court. Director of Public Works Colbert statedihat the reason for raising the issue in addition to minimizing non-compliance is the need to si{2ve peak usage or face the alternative to construct more deep wells, pump stations and reservpiis to meet the increased water demands at significantly more cost. City Councilmember Masin stated that she would prefer more education as to why the odd/even program is necessary before implementing the proposed ordinance. Mayor Egan stated that it is also his opinion that the City should Page 6/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 maintain the current system and wort i"refer to defer arfy;Ebnsideration of an ordinance. After discussion, there is a concurrent* -by the City Council that the City would continue and increase the water conservation educaiitih,program wit#.i44ditional flyers, monitor compliance and the odd/even restrictiorv.: llck;ke O:Lfl, sed on a voluntary compliance basis for the time being. ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN/DISCUSS OPERATIONS FOR THE FA LILY AQUATIC POOL FACILITY The City Administrator Hedgeir:afa6ed i�42(:Afti .is iiteeting and discussing operations such as staffing, marketing, admission costs ajlil other re{$ttd activities that require advance planning to open the facility on June I, 1999. He further stated that the City Council had asked for pictures regarding the architecturak'(f 4ign of buildings which include the bath- house and administration. Director OF.P.. j;JW �ieCf2$ti¢n Vraa presented a number of pictures of bath -houses and administi' ti6h buildirtgsthii were supplied by Water Technologies, the City's design consultant. The photos were from a number of cities, primarily in the upper mid -west. After reviewing the pictures,. made to blend the elevation, image ar and Municipal Center/Police Departri buildings should be playful, project a quality purpose and make a positive s complex. was a general consensus that an attempt should be istruction materials with the library, Civic Arena iii Fdipgs. There is also consensus that the :al'eleiii ;consist of masonry materials for lent for entr2ggt'to the Aquatic Pool Facility Director of Parks and Recre4*hO`t Vraa stated that he will take this direction back to the architect as they begin to prepare some preliminary designs for City Council consideration. Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa stated that he had a recent meeting with representatives of the Dakota County; cd iiieiititt$alia't 3.. re should be no problem with the County granting an easement for the City io iri'cliide'ap oximately 5,000 square feet of library property into the Aquatic Pool Facilityi; tae furt0istated that as part of the condition for approval of the easement, the library wantedeight ($);conditions met. They requested directional lighting and that the sound systemitiiit play dil4ic. Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa stated that lighting should not be a pro6tetn in that the library would be closed the majority of the time lights would be used at the pool facility. He stated that in regards to the sound system, there has not been any policy decision reached by the City Council, however, it might be more appropriate that the City and County approve an acceptable decibel level. Director of Parks and Recreat):gii Vraa reviewed other conditions mentioned by the County, indicating this item would be>i'O the County Board's workshop agenda for Tuesday, June 2. Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa also discussed a season pass concept that would work similar to the picture card that is issued byl-fe Time Fitness to its members. He further stated that either a bar code or magnetic strip wd d be included on the card that wobld provide the City with appropriate information about attendance and other related data. He further stated that if the card is designed with the magnetic strip, it could be used as a Page 7/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 debit card for purchase of concession$ estimate, based on population and sale could sell up to 8,800 passes and prow: on how involved just that aspect is for rector of Park�:aiid Recreation Vraa gave an season passes in.pther communities, that the City some add iti.apal:appreciation for the City Council Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa stated that the staff has not projected the rates for admission fees, however, it is anticipated that each person at the complex will spend a minimum of $1.00 on concessions. He stated that the estimate is 100,000 participants during the first year. City Councilmember Ekotpgpist:stgted that.she has had a lot of input from the community and the expectation for aBt4ii$Sitiii CNt 0*" ss: rithe $2.00 to $3.00 range. City Councilmember Awada stated that it is her un*' tanding,":". at other communities are charging admission rates that are higher than that. City Cou: ncilmember Masin stated that she has heard some concern from residents who hiikc.enjoyt ..We of the wading pool at no cost and a concern that the rates will prevOr.N5et3 iroi !:atseisiithg the pool complex on a daily basis. She stated that without the sesS'on'pass, it c'oiiFti-be prohibitive for a family or an individual to utilize the pool each day, which in her opinion should be given consideration. Mayor Egan thanked staff for the update on the planning for future operations of the Aquatic Pool Facility. Director of Parks and Recreation Waa and Superintendent of Parks Olson reviewed the design elements and cost of a park she3 er:4uifdirig:1hdt'is proposed at the Lexington/Diffley Athletic Park. Directzir'i Rdeks and Recreation Vraa stated that the dimension of the picnic shelter is 22FlO:sgiiare feet and will incorporate beams that were salvaeed during demolition during the Fire Administration Building. He stated that there were 17 beams salvaged at a cost of $4500 and the replacement value for the beams is approximately $1700 each for a value of $29,000. After further discussion reviews, City Councilmembers concurred with the design and drawing as presented. City Councilmember Awada'a'SkedI t}i'eteare'�a'o:plans for the wading pool that will be dismantled once the parking lot is construci'01 She f6 ther stated that it would make sense to locate wading pools throughout the City for.:,iise by yo4ft families. After a brief discussion, staff was directed to research locaiMs and ti}iother it is feasible to locate wading pools at two or three sites throughout the community. OTHER BUSINESS There being no further business, the meeting was:adjourned at 9:00 p.m. DATE :::::::::CITY CLERK TLH a I AGENDA SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING Tuesday May 26,1998 5:00 P.M. Municipal Center Community Room 1. ROLL CALL & ADOPTION OF AGENDA H. VISITORS TO BE HEARD III. REVIEW PROCESS FOR 1999 GENERAL FUND OPERATING BUDGET IV. DISCUSSION RE: PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ORDINANCE V. BUILDERS ASSOCIATION PRESENTATION VI. REVIEW TRAIL MAINTENANCE POLICY VII. SPRINKLING BAN ENFORCEMENT OPTIONS VIII. REVIEW ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN & DISCUSS VARIOUS OPERATIONS FOR THE FAMILY AQUATIC POOL FACILITY IX. REVIEW DESIGN ELEMENTS -PICNIC SHELTER BLDG X. OTHER BUSINESS XI. ADJOURNMENT MEMO city of eagan TO: HONORABLE MAYOR & CITY COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: CITY ADMINISTRATOR HEDGES DATE: MAY 21, 1998 SUBJECT: SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING/MAY 26, 1998 A Special City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 26, 1998 in the Municipal Center Community Room. 1999 GENERAL FUND OPERATING BUDGET The Director of Finance and City Administrator reviewed and distributed the 1999 operating budget worksheet packets and budget calendar at the last staff meeting held on May 12. There are three major components to the budget process: 1) Department Heads prepare departmental budgets during May/June; 2) Finance Department completes revenue estimates, City Administrator and Finance Director confer with departments and City Administrator prepares draft budget document for presentation to the City Council during June/July; and 3) During the months of August and September, the City Council reviews the preliminary budget to determine and certify a proposed levy to the County Auditor and "adopt" a proposed budget. Additional refinement of the operating budget occurs during October/November and final adoption of the budget follows the truth -in -taxation hearings in the month of December. The State Legislature has continued levy limits through taxes payable in 1999. Levy limits will be calculated in the same manner as last year with growth factors for inflation and household growth and an additional adjustment will be made for increases in market value due to construction of new commercial and industrial properties. The City currently has 32 commercial projects under construction, which will add some public service demands for 1999. Leery limits will be a major limiting factor on homy much the budget can change from 1998 to 1999. The City Administrator and Director of Finance will discuss in more detail the preparation of individual department budgets. DIRECTION ON THIS MATTER: There is no action; this item is intended to be informative about the operating budget process. DISCUSSION/PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ORDINANCE Planning staff has assembled property maintenance information from surrounding communities in an effort to receive direction from the City Council relative to a property maintenance ordinance in Eagan. Detailed information regarding the scope of the new ordinance will be presented to Advisory Planning Commission members at its June 11, 1998 workshop. Over the past several months, staff has received several letters and telephone messages from parties interested in creating a property maintenance ordinance. These interested parties would be directly contacted andinvited to attend any workshop dealing with this particular issue. Enclosed on pages k through _�_ is a staff memo from the Senior Planner regarding this item. ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED: To provide direction to Planning staff and Advisory Planning Commission members regarding preparation of a property maintenance ordinance. BUILDERS ASSOCIATION PRESENTATION The Builders Association of the Twin Cities has produced a 10 -minute video entitled "The Future Is Now" which depicts the Twin Cities dwindling land supply and affordable housing issues. The Builders Association has requested approximately ten minutes to show the video tape and a representative will be available to handle questions. Advisory Planning Commission members have been invited at approximately 6:00 p.m. on the 26th to view the video prior to the start of the regular Advisory Planning Commission meeting at 6:30 p.m. Enclosed on page L is a copy of the Builders Association letter to Mayor Egan. ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED: No formal action is required. REVIENV TRAIL MAINTENANCE In accordance with Council directives, the City, staff has completed the community information meeting and tabulated the survey responses regarding the proposed winter trail and sidewalk maintenance plan. Public Works Director Colbert and Street Superintendent Erhart will be presenting the suggested modifications to the draft plan that was presented to the public along with a proposed policy for Council discussion. Consideration of adopting a fonnal plan has been scheduled for the June 2"d regular Council meeting. Based on Council's direction at the workshop session, a final plan and policy will be prepared for formal presentation at the June 2"d regular Council meeting. Enclosed on pages _through - 4L�is the Public Works Department's report of the process and input to date. Also enclosed without page number is a map of the proposed winter maintenance plan. DIRECTION TO BE CONSIDERED ON THIS ITEM: To provide staff direction regarding the Winter Trail and Sidewalk Maintenance Plan in preparation for the June 2 City Council meeting. Y ODD/EVEN SPRINKLING BAN ENFORCEMENT In 1990, the City Council formally adopted a permanent water conservation and management program that restricted lawn -sprinkling activities to an odd/even program. This was an action adopting a policy provided for under the current City ordinances. For the past •S years, the City has been enforcing this odd/even restriction through a series of mailed notification and door hanger tags. On certain occasions, the staff has enforced compliance by physically turning off the sprinkler at the hose bibs. The Public Works Director would like to discuss an option of adopting a formal ordinance regarding rules and regulations relating to outdoor water usage with a more effective method of enforcement. Enforcement could include surcharges added to the utility bill in lieu of enforcement as an ordinance violation through district court. Enclosed on pages_ and is a copy of the draft ordinance. The Public Works Director would like to discuss t is issue with the Council and get some direction as to whether this proposal should be advanced. ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED: Review odd/even sprinkling restriction policy and provide direction to staff regarding a possible ordinance amendment. REVIEW ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN & DISCUSS VARIOUS OPERATIONS FOR THE FAMILY AQUATIC POOL. FACILITY Director of Parks & Recreation Vraa will have information relative to the architectural design for the buildings that will be constructed as a part of the aquatic pool facility project. Staff is looking for direction relative to the design and materials of the two buildings. Also, staff will update the City Council on various issues regarding the operation of the family aquatic pool facility. Certainly, the discussion will not be all inclusive of all the decisions that are in front of the City in order to meet the schedule for a grand opening on June 1, 1999, but the discussion will center on some of the issues staff is working on at this time. The Council had previously requested an opportunity to review the design early in the process. Water Technology Inc. provided SX 10 photos of various facilities that reflect both design and material alternatives, which will be shared at the workshop. DIRECTION TO BE CONSIDERED: To provide direction to staff regarding architectural design/materials for the buildings proposed in the family aquatic pool facility and discussion relative to the report on various facets of the proposed operation for the family aquatic pool facility. 14 REVIEW DESIGN ELEMENTS/PARK SHELTER BUILDING As the City Council recalls, the wooden beams from the Fire Administration building were salvaged for the purpose of recycling their use into a park shelter building at the Lexington Diffley Athletic Park. The Director of Parks & Recreation would like an opportunity to review the design elements and cost of the park shelter building with the City Council. Enclosed on pages through is a copy of a memo from the Director of Parks & Recreation on this item. OTHER BUSINESS There is no other business planned for the Special City Council meeting at this time. /s/ Thomas L. Hedges City Administrator TO: FROM: DATE: city of eagan TOA] HEDGES, CITY ADMINISTRATOR MIKE RIDLEY, SENIOR PLANNER MAY 21,1998 SUBJECT: PROPERTY MAINTENANCE MEMO This memo is to update you on progress Planning staff has made relative to compiling property maintenance requirements as requested by the City Council. In contacting surrounding cities, we found that many cities do not have specific property maintenance codes, but address such items in various areas of their city codes, while other cities have specifically adopted a property maintenance ordinance addressing everything from recreational vehicle storage to insect/rodent infestation. Specifically covered in the attached memo is a summary of property maintenance items regulated by the cities of Bloomington, Burnsville, Richfield, and St. Louis Park. These communities are similar to Eagan in stages of land development/redevelopment and may provide insight into regulating property maintenance, particularly on maturing properties. This information is provided as a means to help City Councilmembers determine the scope of property maintenance that should be addressed via a new ordinance. If you would like more detailed information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Senior Planner MR/js attach. A city of eagan TO: Mike Ridley, Senior Planner FROM: Bob Kirmis, Planner DATE: May 19,1998 SUBJECT: Property Main tenance/Accessory Buildings MEMO This memorandum represents a follow-up to our conversation regarding property maintenance and accessory building items to be raised at the forthcoming 26 May Special City Council Meeting. PROPERTY MAINTENANCE At your request, I have surveyed a number of area communities in regard to property maintenance related standards that are imposed upon single family residential uses. Specific contact was made with the cities of Bloomington, Burnsville, Richfield and St. Louis Park. The purpose of this effort is to determine the general scope of regulation utilized by the aforementioned communities. The following is a summary of my investigation. Bloomington - The City of Bloomington does not have a specific "property maintenance code". Property maintenance related regulations are scattered throughout the City Code. Enforcement of property maintenance related matters are handled by a designated Environmental Health Officer. ITEM ISSUE REGULATED Recreational Vehicle Storage ➢ Use while in storage 9 Licensing/Registration i On-site storage location ➢ On -street parking duration i Number of vehicles Weeds > Maximum length/height On-site wells . Terms of mandatory municipal hook-up Garbage i Removal of accumulations Firewood > Location ➢ Volume On -street parking IMaximum number of vehicles Noise > Noise levels (dBA) 7 Burnsville -The City of Burnsville has adopted a specific property maintenance code that applies to all residential and nonresidential structures and premises in the community. The code is administered and enforced by the City's inspection department. In addition the maintenance code, the City's zoning ordinance also includes numerous property maintenance related provisions including standards specific to recreational vehicle and firewood storage. ITEM ISSUE REGULATED Recreation Vehicle Storage ➢ Ownership Short-term storage location Recreational Vehicle Storage ➢ Long-term storage location ➢ Number of Vehicles ➢ Use while in storage Weeds ➢ Maximum length/height Firewood ➢ Location ➢ Volume ➢ Short-term storage (<30 days) Sidewalks/Driveways ➢ General maintenance Accessory Structures ➢ General maintenance ➢ Garage color Foundation Walls i General maintenance Exterior Building Features ➢ General Maintenance Garbage ➢ Removal of accumulations ➢ Containers ➢ Screening Insect/Rodent Infestation r Extermination responsibilities Richfield -The City of Richfield does not have a specific property maintenance code. Property maintenance related matters are however addressed through various sections of the City Code. Property maintenance related requirements are enforced by the City's public safety department. ITEM ISSUE REGULATED Outside Storage ➢ Unlawful vehicle types Permissible storage (exceptions) Recreational Vehicle Storage ➢ Long term storage location Short term storage location 9 Use while in storage ➢ Licensing Noise 9 Noise levels (dBA) ➢ Operational hours for outdoor power equipment Animal (pet) noise N r.V . St. Louis Park - St. Louis Park does not have a specific property maintenance code. The City has however recently adopted a highly detailed set of regulations pertaining to vehicle parking (including recreational vehicles) in residential zoning districts. Property maintenance matters are handled through the city's inspection department. ITEM ISSUE REGULATED Recreational Vehicles > Maximum height ➢ Maximum length ➢ Maximum weight ➢ On-site storage location/setback from adjacent residences ➢ Number of vehicles Ownership Off -Street Parking 7 Location/setbacks ➢ Maximum driveway coverage and width ➢ Garage Use Fish Houses ➢ Prohibition Firewood ➢ Exfoliation (elm wood) ACCESSORY BUILDINGS Based upon past experience (and recent discussions with members of the Inspection Department), it has become evident that several provisions of the City's accessory building standards are unclear in regard to desired application. Of specific issue are accessory building setbacks and the means by which maximum allowable accessory storage area is determined. This lack of ordinance "clarity" has resulted in inconsistent interpretations by both the Planning and Inspections Departments. To remedy this situation, it is suggested that staff request authorization to proceed with an ordinance amendment addressing accessory building requirements. q. AMIX ST111 • BUILDERSASSOCIATIOn" OF THE T-WIV CITIES April 29, 1995 Mayor Thomas Egan City of Eagan 864 Great Oaks Trail Eagan, MN 55122 Dear Mayor Egan: The Builders Association of the Twin Cities is requesting approximately 10 minutes of time during one of your next Council or Planning Commission meetings to show you an important new videotape that could affect the future of your community. The Builders Association of the Twin Cities has produced a 1;0 -minute video entitled, 'The Future is Now,' which dramatically depicts the Twin Cities dwindling land supply and affordable housing issues: This video features local officials stating in their own words. the severity of the crisis. Our request is to show you a copy of the videotape and to leave the copy with you for use at your discretion. If time permits after the presentation, a representative from the Builders Association will be available for a'brief discussion. We are available at your convenience to present this very important video to your planning commission and your council. Please call'Ivlary Schweich (697-7572) to schedule a presentation. Sincerelv, Gary Laurent, " Chairperson Karen Christofferson Public Policy Committee Director,of'Public Policy cc: Thomas Hedges, City Administrator Mike Ridley, Senior Planner io 296o Centra Pointe Drive R0i,!V (a. Minnec'rta 55113-1122 6121697.195.4 Fax 6121697-7599 Parade Fax 6121697-7575 es' city of eagan TO: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL C/O THOMAS L HEDGES, CITY ADMINISTRATOR FROM: THOMAS A COLBERT, DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS DATE: MAY 22,1998 MEMO SUBJECT: DRAFT WINTER TRAIL/SIDEWALK ALAIN"I'ENANCE PLAN & POLICY Sidewalks were first installed by the developers during the early development stages of Eagan's growth during the late'60's and early `70's (Cedar -vale, Valley View Apartments, Silver Bell Road, etc.). Trailways began to be installed as County roads, and other arterials/collectors were upgraded to urban standards. An integrated community wide trail system was first identified in the 1982 Park and Trail System Plan for the City of Eagan, which stated that trails should be constructed primarily along arterials and collector roadways at the time of roadway improvements. A random survey of actual sidewalk and trial users in 1988 and 1990 provided the following results of usage: 1988 1 USE 11990 41% Exercise 36% 18% Recreation 11% 18% Transportation 17% 23% Recreation/Exercise 35% In January of 1995, the City's Park System Plan was again updated which incorporated a trail system element. That plan recommended that multi -season use of the City's trailway system should be considered. It was recognized that winter trail use and related snow plowing activities will be in higher demand as Eagan matures and its population continues to increase. The 1995 trail system plan states "prudent decision making regarding snow plowing must consider the actual amount of trail use gained given the level of investment required". Also, Goal #8 of the Trail System Plan states: "Update the City ordinance concerning the responsibility of property owners to perform snow removal on sidewalks in residential areas". On October 15, 1996, the City Council adopted an experimental program for winter trail and sidewalk maintenance in limited locations primarily. serving designated walkers to: local elementary schools. Under this program, 2.2 miles of trailways were maintained by the' City under contractual services and 1.6 miles of residential sidewalks were maintained by adjacent property owners under a new ordinance. This 3.8 mile experimental program was performed during the 1996-'97 and '97-'98 winter season. At the conclusion of the '97-'98 winter season, the City Council began discussions regarding the future of this current program. At a March 24, 1998, City Council Workshop, the City Council held preliminary discussions regarding the community's interest in winter maintenance of sidewalks and trails. They supported an expansion of the current experimental program adopted in October of '96 (3.8 miles). However, there was consensus that it was not fiscally prudent to provide winter maintenance on the entire 110+ mile system. They'directed staff to create aprocess of soliciting community input for Council consideration of adopting a formal program. The City Council also reviewed the survey results of several other community ordinances regarding public vs. private property owner obligations. At an April 7, 1998 Council Workshop, the City Council reviewed 2 plan options and approved a draft plan consisting of 45+ miles for presentation to the community and solicitation of public comment. They also ratified a process for public input and comment summarized as follows: DATE I PROCESS ACTIVITY May 4 (7 pm) Community meeting (live cable cast) April 25 & 29 News releases to local papers May 5-15 Cable rebroadcast & open comment period May 26 (6 pm) Council Workshop review June 2(7 pm) Formal council consideration COM\SLT\TITY MEETfNG On May 4, 1998, at 7:00 p.m., a community meeting was held in the City Council Chambers with a panel presentation by Public Works Director Tom Colbert, Street/Equipment Superintendent Arnie Erhart and Park Superintendent Paul Olson. A copy of the agenda, summary of the meeting and attendance list are attached as Appendix A. A formal survey with a short explanation of the questions and issues was made available to the general public. Of 99 survey forms picked up, 31 (31%) were retumed. A summary of the responses is attached as Appendix B to this report. Question 2 under Section B (Quantity of Trail System Maintained) inquired about the adequacy of the proposed plan. The following additional segments were suggested in descending order of frequency response: h� 2 cv. %TVM, I TGRV11N1 I RFOIIEST I LENGTH Wilderness Run Rd. Pilot Knob to Elrene 4 2.7 mi. Elrene Rd. Yankee Doodle Rd. to Dodd Rd. 3 2.0 mi. Northview Pk. Rd. Lexington Ave. to Elrene Rd. 2 plus petition of 43 1.5 mi. Deerwood Dr. Pilot Knob Rd. to Denmark l - 0.4 mi. Also, in response to a community meeting comment, the segment of Diffley Road from Braddock Trail to Dodd Road could be shifted to the north side to maintain same -side continuity. Another comment suggested that the Pilot Knob Road segment be maintained to its connection with Apple Valley for continuity. This would require either adding an additional I mile along the west side from Cliff Road to Apple Valley or switching the proposed east side to the west. However, this would not serve as many local residents. Staff is recommending that the portion of Red Pine Lane from Hwy. 3 to Biscayne Avenue be deleted in the final plan adoption. Staff is also suggesting that the sidewalk along Hawthorne Woods Drive (0.2 miles) from Diffley Road to Hackmore Drive be added for continuity Attached as Appendix E is a copy of the draft plan that was presented to the community with the modifications as requested by the community responses and suggested by staff. • 0M J0 1 wal"Jam"M In addition to the community meeting and formal survey, residents were encouraged to submit comments by letter, e-mail, fax, etc. Each of these comments was Forwarded to the City Council with the weekly Informative Memo update as they were received. Therefore, a summary of the comments received is enclosed as Appendix C to this report. After evaluating the comments received from the community, the City Council should modify or reaffirm the current operational policy used by City forces to perform any aspect of the Winter Trail and Sidewalk Maintenance Plan. The following is the current City policy for Council consideration: (Staff recommendation in parenthesis.) I. Onlv sidewalks and trails designated for walkers to elementary schools (3.8 miles) will be required to be maintained year around. Modification: Winter maintenance shall be performed on all trails and sidewalks so designated on an official map adopted by resolution by the City Council and kept on file in the Department of Public Works. 2. Snow removal shall be required after a minimum snow accumulation of 2". Modification: (None recommended.) 13 3 3. Begin removal operations within 24 hours after snowfall cessation. Modification: (None recommended.) 4. Complete snow removal within 24 hours after the start-up. Modification: (None recommended.) 5. City removal operations will be performed through contractual services. Modifications: (None recommended.) 6. Winter maintenance will be limited to snow removal only and will not include ice control. No sand or de-icing chemicals will be applied. Modifications: (None recommended) 7. No handwork will be performed under City operations. (Level of service will be limited to a typical efficiency associated with mechanical equipment). Modifications: (None recommended) 8. Clean up of windrows and spillage in driveways resulting from City snow removal operations will be the responsibility of the affected property owner. Modification: (None recommended) 9. The City will not be liable for any incidental damage to turf, driveways, irrigation systems or landscaping located within public easements or rights-of- way. Repair and restoration will be the responsibility of the adjacent property owner unless caused by operator negligence. Modification: (None recommended) 10. Anv obstructions existing on or encroaching into the trailway system (vehicles, refuse containers, toys, implements, etc.), will result in the City skipping that segment and the violating property owner will be responsible for performing the snow removal within the required time frame or the costs incurred by the City to do so if noncompliance continues. Modifications: (None recommended) 14 a MENOIRDINKIRW49'M The City Council should determine to what extent adjacent property owners should be responsible for snow removal of public trails and sidewalks. Currently, under the experimental program, adjacent property owners of certain local residential sidewalks have been responsible for snow removal under the October 1996 ordinance revision. The areas affected by this ordinance have been the Hawthorne Woods development near Pinewood Elementary School and the Windcrest Addition along Denmark Avenue near Glacier Hills Elementary School. Although both neighborhoods were covered under the same ordinance, Denmark Avenue is classified as a neighborhood collector with a 44' wide street as compared to the Hawthorne Woods local residential streets at 32' wide. The sidewalk along Denmark Avenue was installed as a part of the City's trail system's plan and the wider collector street results in more snow being deposited on the boulevard and adjacent sidewalks. The Hawthorne Woods residential neighborhood had the sidewalk installed by the developer and is not identified on the Master Trail System Plan. The local residential streets (32') are 38% narrower with less snow being deposited from street plowing operations. Due to the numerous variables associated with each neighborhood, street classification/width, trail function, etc., it is very difficult to identify specific quantifiable criteria to designate on a policy basis as to which segment should be maintained by adjacent property owners. Therefore, it is recommended that if private maintenance is to be required by ordinance, the affected property should be identified by a map approved by resolution of the City Council and kept on file in the Public Works Department. Also, if there is an ordinance requiring private property maintenance, the level of effort expended by the City for inspection, notification, enforcement and fee collection should be weighed against cost and effort to perform this snow removal as a part of overall operations. The October 1996 ordinance stipulates the following: (Staff recommendation in parenthesis.) 1. Snow removal shall be performed by property owners on concrete sidewalks in residential zones only as designated by Council resolution. Modification - 2. Snow must be removed within 24 hours of deposit. Modification: (Stipulate a minimum accumulation along with the beginning and completion times in conformance with the City's operational policy.) 15 3. If property owner is in noncompliance, the City will: • Issue notice of violation with order to comply. • Perform work -and bill the property owner after 12 hours of issuing violation. • Certify as a special assessment property tax all penalties not received within 4. Property owner cannot deposit snow back`,into the street. Modification: (None recommended.) If the City Council supports some private maintenance ordinance, it may want to consider certain land use criteria such as schools (9 elementary, 2 middle, and 1 high school), commercial areas (Cliff Lake Centre; Promenade, Town Centre, Cedarvale) and/or local residential sidewalks. Presently, tax exempt school districts perform a limited amount (4 miles) of snow removal on public trails. As mentioned earlier under the survey responses,, several requests have been received for adding various segments to the draft plan presented to the ptlilic. It is estimated that each additional mile of trailway added will cost approximately 53,500 per year. Appendix D shows the tax impact resulting from every $100,000 of program costs to various residential home valuations. Based on the information provided in this report and''previously submitted to the City Council,. the City Council can make a final determination for the scope and extent of a winter maintenance program for the community's trails and sidewalks. Depending upon the direction provided by the City Council at the May 26 Workshop, a ,formal policy document and ordinance can be prepared for formal consideration at the June 2 meeting:' Respectfully submitted, Director of Public Works TAC/ii Cc: Arnie Erhart, Superintendent of Streets/Equipment G 11RfIMEM0�w5mnTrvl.Niiumv+c�rlm /p 6 COMPNIUNITY MUETIN 5�UNIMARY WINTER',NNIATINTENANCE OF TRAILS,& SIDEWA�LXS 1� COMMUN, IT-YMEETING toAistuss, PROPOSED, WINTER MAIINXTME'N'"ANCE of TRAILS and -SIVEA{AILKS MONDAY,:M,.,k;Y 4,,.� 1998 7:00 P.Nl,. CITY COUNCIL CiIANIBERS 1. INTRODUCTIONS - I Ii. COMMUNITY HISTORY OF TRAILS AND SIDEWALKS 111. CURRENT MA NNTENANCE;'PROGRAMS �Q POLICIES Rz OTHER CITIESPROGRAMSAND,P"C�.T�ICES�,(VIDEO) V. EAG N'S -2 YR. E)T. ERIM'ENTAL PRO- F�AM VI. DECI5ION,:ELEMENTS OFlPROPOSERPkOGRAlvl A. SCOPE/EXTENTT OF PROGRAM B. TIMETRNNIE FOR SERVICE DELIVERY C. SNOWFALLACCUMILATIONS D. RESPONSIBLE PARTIES E. COST OF PROPOSALS F. FUNDING Vii. D8CfSIONlMAKJNG PR&ESS VIII. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS IX. ADJOURN �113.1 191111• • At 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 8, 1998, a public informational community meeting was held in the City Council Chambers of the Municipal Center to present the proposed winter maintenance plan for trails and sidewalks. A panel presentation was provided by Tom Colbert, Director of Public Works, Arnie Erhart, Superintendent of Streets/Equipment and Paul Olson, Superintendent of Parks. 26 citizens signed the attached attendance sheet. The meeting was cable casted live over Meredith Cable Channel 16 and taped for rebroadcasting at various times on May 7, 9, and 10. Public Works Director Colbert began the meeting with introductions and then proceeded to provide a community history of the construction and maintenance of sidewalks and trails within the City of Eagan. This history referenced the 1982 Park & Trail Systems Plan, trail users survey conducted in 1988 and 1990 and goals and policy statements identified in the 1995 Parks Systems Plan. Superintendent Erhart then briefly discussed the City's structural and operational maintenance programs and policies along with personnel and equipment resource availability. Superintendent Olson then summarized the results of other suburban communities' maintenance programs and showed a 3 - minute video of winter maintenance operations. Director Colbert then explained the current winter maintenance policy and ordinance associated with the limited experimental program adopted in October of 1996. He then followed with a presentation of the various decision elements and criteria options associated with creating a new or expanded winter maintenance program. These elements incorporated such things as scope/extent of program, time frame for service delivery, snowfall accumulation, responsible parties and ordinances, cost of various proposals and the tax impacts associated with funding various program levels. Mr. Colbert then reviewed the decision making process adopted by the Council incorporating the community meeting, surveys, public comment period and formal Council ratification and ordinance adoption. At the conclusion of the presentation, the meeting was then opened to the public for general comments and questions. Cherie Weston, 1205 Carlson Lake Lane, questioned if and how safety was taken into consideration in preparing proposed plan and policy. Also, to what extent is the City liable for maintenance or lack thereof. Mr. Colbert responded by reiterating the Council's concern and sensitivity to the safety of its citizens while also maintaining their responsibility being fiscally responsible with public funds in establishing new programs with an appropriate service delivery level. Mr. Colbert also indicated the courts have recognized discretionary immunity for local elected decision makers if an appropriate planning process and formal policies are responsibly adopted. M Steve Weston (same address) then questioned about the various multiple cross -overs of Diffley Road as compared to maintaining the same side. Mr. Colbert explained the rationale that went into preparing the draft plan and if there was interest and support to change any segment, the Council would be willing to give due consideration. Mr. Weston then stated that the City of Eagan appeared to be the only City to not plow its trailways and reiterated the safety concern resulting from no trail maintenance. He stated support for having Northview Park Road and Wilderness Run Road added to the program. He also stated his belief that there is greater recreational benefit provided to the community for the limited dollars spent on winter maintenance than for general construction dollars spent on some of the other communities' recreational facilities. Rachel Lewine, 3873 Westbury Drive, inquired about the comparison of maintenance costs for Eagan's proposed plan as compared to other communities who already provide winter maintenance. Superintendent's Erhart and Olson responded that many communities do not perform a separate cost accounting for their sidewalk and trail maintenance. Ms. Lewine then stated her support for plowing trails on both sides of the street to provide more variety to the users and encouraged the City to plow the streets to the curb line where onstreet safety lanes are designated. Tom Eyre, 1372 Interlachen Drive, commended the City for the good start on a winter maintenance program. He inquired about the City's liability for injuries to the public who may use the trail system and what obligations the City had to accommodate wheelchairs. Mr. Colbert responded that a research of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations through State and Federal authorities revealed that there is no written guidelines or criteria and that many of Eagan's traihvays do not meet ADA criteria due to the slopes on steep grades. Mr. Colbert also responded that when the wheelchair fatality occurred on Lexington Avenue, there was less than 1" of snow covering the adjacent trailway. Mary Anderson, 4047 Camberwell Drive N., identified herself as a member of the Minnesota Distance Runners Association and the Hills of Stonebridge Homeowners Association. She felt the City was recreating the wheel and should just implement the program that other cities are currently using. She also felt that the percentage of users of the trail system is greater than the number of users for the City's Ice Arena. Bob Klecker, 3653 Widgeon Way, stated that if the City could finance the Aquatic Park and the Ice Arena, it could certainly finance winter maintenance of the City's sidewalks and trails. The City has the first basic responsibility of safety to its citizens. He felt that a 1" accumulation standard on one side of the road would be appropriate and that Eagan should look into the maintenance methods employed by the city of Minneapolis on the River Road trail system by the University of Minnesota near the St. Paul border. Minneapolis appeared to maintain a bare pavement up to the St. Paul border after which the quality quickly diminishes. Mike Ferber, 725 Granite Drive, encouraged Eagan to use brooms and brushes in maintaining the trails similar to St. Paul. He also suggested that Elrene and Wilderness Run Roads be incorporated into the draft plan. He stated that the onstreet safety lanes were not adequate due to the amount of slush that accumulates there. Mark Niznik, 3284 Donald Avenue, stated his desire for winter maintenance to provide a method of transportation to work. When asked if he uses the trails to get to a bus system, he replied that he walks to work at Lockheed Loral and finds it very difficult to do so along Yankee Doodle Road. Tish Whetstone, 917 Curry Trail, commented that the usage of the trails and sidewalks will go up if they are maintained year round. By doing so, it will create another recreational program for the citizens. Elaine Eyre, 1373 Interlachen Drive, re-emphasized and supported the safety and health issues raised by others at the meeting. Daryle Peterson, 4126 Lantern Lane, inquired regarding the use of contractual vs. existing City personnel. Superintendent Erhart provided information regarding the deployment of current personnel and equipment for street, parking lot and ice rink maintenance operations. Mr. Peterson then stated he is in favor of the proposed plan and would like to see the Council adopt it. Dick Klatt, 1270 Deer Ridge Court, stated his support for the proposed program and suggested that the City pay for and perform all winter maintenance operations rather than having adjacent property owners being held responsible through an ordinance. There being no more comments or questions, the Public Works Director then thanked everyone for attending and declared the meeting adjourned but offered the availability of City staff on an informal basis for any follow-up questions. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Prepared v: Director of Public Works TAC/jj G llRCM1SC/Min.amRrilMvaNq INFORMATIONAL MEETING PROPOSED WINTER MAINTENANCE OF TRAILS & SIDEWALKS MONDAY, MAY 4,1998,7:00 P.M. NAME ADDRESS 1. Cln. .<+ C�re (✓%: 1 2.I /J r.- Ey 1I< 3.�leK KLA- 171 4. CA c K /lir l�kJS�� 5. mak 6. iA:�Ni�Y ��f.lz 7. 7 � 0,6e, ly A rckc ke 1 I-4�w, V.e 9. ZZ)loK Loot ,vse-12— L; �, MCI), l�lar dP✓Sv+, 17. ! c •. -1 h" e 18. L?& IA AV. 1 19. x1nA2� V 1NL4�y� 20.y_ C� fC el e�je.( KFORMS/Sign-In 1 '� iz v DEFRRIl)Cf Cr - 32 Yy r- 32Yy D0.,,1� A�e �i 1, l I P. E hi k W t 1. III `r ,2,b65 (2oe9 L Ll}, .tela W�tb Dr. 43-5- (7 3.5(7Errcip✓, = e- )091 Po4vlPw- 36-zK C V0e. 14 Capliterwell X33 gi, ire yS v- �-,� NAME 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 41 40 ADDRESS Lei Lt COMMUNITY . TRSi VFY_ SUMMARY WINTER MAINTENANCE OF TRAILS & SIDEWALKS Z -q Ott B'. QUANTITY OF TR"45IL'.SYSTEAI.:1I':4INTAINED j In your: opinion;.. 1) Would this- proposed Winter Trail. Alaintenance Plan. meet the basic>'needs of the ; Community? 24 _: Yes; 10 No If no, "-by not'. • We need more major roads;plowed I would like'aosee added that citizens be responsible f for clearing sidewalks (not trails) in front of their property. Also; would like to; see some collector " • Not•:extensrve enough', - • Keep mlmtna no patty: at Ulm Rcl .h.ot Ytlot _Knot): Should db Wildemes'sl • Look-There,aY manyloggers - . We�need`more trails'deared: walkers, kids, visnmg friends .etc.,who•walk,on these. roads. -- • No, but tt•sa start- ' - • Several residents-stilPiack safe access to the'se-"rnajor -- � trails: • hsstarts'to addr`es"s6the:piol lems�but;does;noi.' • 'Moretrails i eedito be,plou•ed thatileadi[oyparks, CITY OF EACAN SUNTSItATION OF SURVEVkESP©NSES ' PRO POSE9D'NN?', !�'TERrMAII�TEN4AnCE OF``TRA►IES NN1,D SIDEWALKS k Survey Copies Picked Up: 99' bate: 5/21/98 Surveys,Retumed: 3.1 Percent: -`31%0 A.iREASONS:FOR NN`iNT)E^R'jTRAIL-USE (Ranked by level of importance with 1 the highest) i ACTIVITY (1); (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) Walking=Paths to Schools 11 6 5 5 1 1 1 'NV,alking to:aotdNit o,w'mter 0 6 31 5 6 9 I ' Parks'andRecreation Facilities Walking: Along M_ajorArterial 6 9 6 5 4 0 0 andrCollector Roads Walking to Bus Stops 1 3 1.1 2 4 8 1 Walking to CommerciatrStores 2 2 3 7 10 4 2 Completed%Connected Loops, 9 2 2 3 a5 8 1 for Exercising Ott B'. QUANTITY OF TR"45IL'.SYSTEAI.:1I':4INTAINED j In your: opinion;.. 1) Would this- proposed Winter Trail. Alaintenance Plan. meet the basic>'needs of the ; Community? 24 _: Yes; 10 No If no, "-by not'. • We need more major roads;plowed I would like'aosee added that citizens be responsible f for clearing sidewalks (not trails) in front of their property. Also; would like to; see some collector " • Not•:extensrve enough', - • Keep mlmtna no patty: at Ulm Rcl .h.ot Ytlot _Knot): Should db Wildemes'sl • Look-There,aY manyloggers - . We�need`more trails'deared: walkers, kids, visnmg friends .etc.,who•walk,on these. roads. -- • No, but tt•sa start- ' - • Several residents-stilPiack safe access to the'se-"rnajor -- � trails: • hsstarts'to addr`es"s6the:piol lems�but;does;noi.' • 'Moretrails i eedito be,plou•ed thatileadi[oyparks, 2) Is there a segment that you feel should be added to this Community Plan? —15 Yes 13 No If Yes, where and why? • Continue trail maintenance S. on the W. side of • I'm not familiar w/the entire road network. If you must Pilot Knob where the proposed plan ends now to start by doing only 45 miles, target the following meet w/the Apple Valley's trail maintenance. year(s) to build up to all 110 miles. • Wilderness Run • 1 feel that it would be beneficial to have all collector streets added as I do not feel the shoulder is safe for walking under winter conditions. • Elrene, Northview Pk. Rd. • All trails outside of parks. But especially those segments to the borders of the City. See map for small segments of Pilot Knob. Cliff & Blackhawk. connecting points for other trails. 2. City park trails. 3. All remaining sidewalks. • Deerwood, between Denmark & Pilot Knob. It • Deerwood Dr. E. of Pilot Knob. Hieh volume a completes a loop that lots of people use. particular times due to church & Deerwood Elem. Can routinely exceed speed limit. Safety lane nearly non- existent in winter. • All the way up Dodd, Elrene, Wilderness Run • At an average annual cost of less than S20nax base payer, I think many people would agree to pay this extra for clear, safe walks. ALL OF THEM. • Feel Wilderness Run needs to be added. Kids on • The Highline Trail should be done. activity buses get dropped of there, but must walk to Lexington then S. — very unsafe. No path on Cliff — People living near Cliff will have to go to Diffley for E -W cleared paths — need access to Traop Farm during winter. i In your opinion; 1) How quickly should trail and sidewalk snore removal operations begin (and/or be required of property owners) after a snowfall has stopped? 24 hours 20 36 hours 5_ 48 hours _ 2 Other 4 Specify: • After streets have been cleared • Immediately after street plowing Right away • After snow plows gone through so no 2 time needed M 2) How long after the starting time should all trails and sidewalks be cleared? 24 hours 14 36 hours 48 hours 7 Other 3 Specify: • As long as clearing is in progress at a As long as it takes. I have no idea. predetermined rate, this time may vary based on snow level • Depends on the storm. If the paths are not safe, they they should be plowed — even if it is still snowing. Safety should be the main concern. 3) Would you expect the same level of service to be performed (as indicated above) on weekends and/or holidays realizing it may cost more? 17 Yes I2 No. If no, what would be reasonable? The time could be the same excluding weekends . Again, safety should be the driving concern. 1 and holidays. If snow is consistently removed, it don't know the traffic levels on weekends — would be rnanaeeable until the plow came. It some routes should be cleared — some might not wouldn't build up like all winter. need to be. • Begin early Alonday andbr day following a • 48 — 11 hours , holiday, or immediately following street plowing. • Weekends — yes. Safety is the issue — not the . Stan the clock on the next regular workday for day. Look for companies who provide the removal. service at the same daily rate. Holidays can wait for removal. • City should clear one side of arterial B collector a As early as possible the following work day. streets and '/2 mile distance to schools. Residents responsible for clearing should adhere to same level of service, exceptions create confusion and make for uneven results. • Stan snow removal on the next available e 48 hours weekday (non -Holiday) • Let's save overtime costs for the first year. aa1 D. FREQUENCY -OF SNON]'�REMOVAL K 1),.Howmuch accumulation would be acceptablepbefore snot_ remos•al is required? t` '/_ inch I I inch 8 [ 2 inches 46 3 inches 3 i, c r Other 3 F: S103V:RF��10VALwRFSP.•O\SIBILITY 1) Do you beliese.Eagari'-sbouldrha�e anRordmanc requiring.phopert} iowueis_to maintain + cr trails,and�sidewal6sadjacentjfo'rth'eu�f�.opert,Nr',_--21_Yes 8 No. 3 Side,«;alksiOnly 2) If }'es, would con support an exemption forSfngle FamtlyaHomeste"ads that areyaijacent' x r to trails along arterial and major collector rii d v'ays.7 20_•Ves 3 No. F: FL'e1DI NG 1) N%'ould }*ou;'support:a taa:ioerease toifinance thisEi 24 Yes Z No. If Yes,.how much per -year? ' $5 5 (2 of which this category is;preferred) 510 9 (2 of which this.category is -acceptable) $15 ; 4 $25 _ 5 Other 5• If no, hoiv should ii -be funded? • As required • Upto;550/yr. ; • Whateverit.takes • Whatever-il tykes • S60/vr. G. GENERAL I\`•50R11t4T10\ AND-COMAMENTS 1) How did you learn about the details- ofthis Winter TrailAlaintenance plan? Attended Community Meeting 13 Local newspaper, articles 22 Cable T.V. broadcast 3 Friends, neighbors 11 Called City Hall 2 Other 8 Notice in Library (4), Neighbors discussing what they heard on Cable 1 inquired on,Eagan'splins to start clearing trails. after very naiou•ly'leing hit by 2 cars on one single run last year ('97-'98). 1 was forced to run on roads while snowmobiles used the trails. • Council meeting •'Saw plan. at City Hall' 2) Please provide any additional comments that you believe would be helpful to the City Council in considering a new and expanded service to the taxpayers. 1 would not use the trails at all, however, I feel it would be best for he community as a whole if this were done. It is ridiculous to ignore these pathways for half the year. This is Minnesota, not Florida. We can't just forget about an important component of our community just because it snows. For a moment, forget about what is being done now as policy and imagine what a new member of our community might expect the first time it snowed. Wouldn't it make sense that the roadways and trails that are used in the summer months are 111 still available for the winter months? And a final thought — tax dollars built these trails so it is reasonable to expect that tax dollars would maintain them. Just because we haven't done this in the past, it does not mean that we should not do it now! Thanks! It was stated several times during the meeting I attended that the City of Eagan maintains our trails for three of our seasons. When you stop and think about it the 3 seasons combined total around 6-7 months which means the citizens of Eagan are unable to use the trails for the other 5-6 months of the year. That is unacceptable! If our winters only lasted 2-3 months, I would not expect the trails and sidewalks to be cleared during winter but that isn't the situation in Eagan MN. My husband and I voted in favor of the ice hockey arena even though no members of our family use it. We voted for the arena because we felt there was a need for it. I know the City hasn't done a formal survey on how many of its citizens actually use the trails, but I can assure you that the numbers are much larger than the number of people that use the ice arena. Having the trails maintained year around provides an excellent source of recreation, exercise, and safety for the citizens of Eagan. The Council and City staff did an excellent job presenting our options, plans and costs. I have two concems. One is that internal trails will not be plowed. Perhaps this could be done after a deeper accumulation (i.e., 4") and not be such exacting standards (not completely clear to pavement; unless that poses legal liability concerns). I use the trails and parks all year around. Having previously lived in Minneapolis, I miss not having the trails plowed, as they do those around the lakes. My other concern is with not plowing collectors with less than 3,000 cars.'day, etc. Deenvood Dr. east is a prime example. In both day and evening, St. John Neumann's has a high rate of traffic and, at times, so does Deerwood Elementary. Cars routinely appear to exceed the speed limit. And in winter, the "safer• shoulder' is narrow and icy. Add to that the risk of cars sliding on the ice/snow into the "safety shoulder" and ,you can understand which I prefer, the sidewalks! We have many children in our neighborhood (and we have one of our own "on the way"). Please make it safe for them! Hou is Eagan different from any of its surrounding communities? It is the only City in the area that does not have a policy of clearing snow from its walkways. This unconscionable policy in the name of savine money forces our children and other pedestrians to walk in the traffic during the most dangerous time of the year when dark winter limits visibility and snow compromises the maneuverability of our cars. Nothing more need to be said. For safety -sake, our sidewalks along the busy arterial roads at the very lest must be plowed. A tragedy adjacent to an unplowed sidewalk is not the legacy this City Council wants to leave. This policy of no snow removal has other interesting implications and effects. We are discouraging our citizens from walking during the winter. Even a short trip by foot now becomes unsafe. We get less exercise and use more fossil fuel. While neither of these have significant impacts upon our health and our environment, they definitely do not promote the general welfare of our community. No snow removal is a poor management of our resources. Why build these paths and trails if they are unusable for almost half the year. Plow and you will find that the walkways will be far more widely used than other recreational facilities such as the ice arena and at far less maintenance cost. Granted, you can not chane for admission to our trails, but (lien our residents will not have to drive to St. Paul to run on clear paths as several of our citizens do. 30 The analysis of the trail system for inclusion in a plowing program has uncovered some glaring inadequacies of the trail system. On Lone Oak Road, just east of Pilot Knob Road, is a short missing segment of walkway along a dangerous roadway less than a block from an elementary school. Is it possible that there is no sidewalk over Highway 77 along Cliff Road? But probably the most dangerous lack of pathway is along Town Center Drive. Clearing our sidewalks during the winter is going to cause our taxes to increase. It appears that that is inevitable. The Council should explore ways to minimize those costs such as requiring that commercial properties be responsible to keep adjacent public walks passable. Keeping our pathways useable during the winter for recreational use and convenience is desirable. The cost will far be exceeded by benefits for the people of Eagan. Keeping our pathways useable for safety sake is absolutely a necessity. The plan before the City Council is inadequate, but it is a minimum that at least must be adopted. For exercising — I would be willing to drive to an area where 1 could walk 3 — 4 miles in a circle, on a sidewalk or bike trail. I don't think we need a shoveled path in every neighborhood — other people have said the same thine. Anywhere — where it wold be safe. I think kids who walk to school should not walk on the road at all. Near Town Center, people should be able to walk around from store area to store area without going on a road• especially the handicapped. There was no reason for that man to be killed while on the road in a wheelchair. We have people living in Eagan who do not have cars and need to push strollers, carry heavy bags, etc. They need to be safe. The trail maintenance program is a good idea for the following reasons: 1) It will promote safety. 2) It will provide an opportunity to run errands, walk to bus stops and get exercise in winter. 3) It will enable full trail system utilization (the system continues to wear out from weather and age during the 40% of each year it is snow covered and totally useless). 4) The price is a bargain for the benefits it will buy. 5) This is Minnesota! E don't cease outdoor activity in winter. 6) Neighboring cities do it and we should, too. if we do not, Eagan will get a reputation of being lax with services and this could adversely affect property values. In the informational meeting by City staff, the difficulties of clearing the trails were highlighted in a video. Any worthwhile endeavor will brine challenees and difficulties. However, we can overcome these and get the job done as other cities have done. The deeree of caution the Council has exercised in making a decision on trail maintenance is surprising. This should be an easy decision given the cost vs. the benefits, and it seems to have been approached with more trepidation than other more costly and risky decisions. We hope that the Council will proceed with' the maintenance program as proposed, at minimum. When choosing which side of the road to plow, pick the path on the sunny side of the street. It's hard for me to believe that my City representatives would even be considered a $7 million pool and then questioning a trail -cleaning plan. What percentage of people will use this pool? 10%— 15%. What percentage will use a clear path — 40% - 50%. City Council — WAKE UP! There are many of us that now run or walk in the winter if the trails were cleared. Doesn't have to get down to bare pavement. It would be SbjLI to walk on a path off the street than on the street. If we can afford to spend $7 million on pool for use for 12 weeks per year, we should be able to plow paths used for winter, which is a longer season in MN. Oct. — April (6 months). S of our children getting off activity buses during winter in the dark should have a higher priority. Work with school district on bus routes. Paths to community ice rinks (outside) need to be plowed. Goat Hill, Bridle Ridge. Need to add Wilderness Run — no path on Cliff from Pilot K to Hwy. 3. �I One side of major arterials — OK. If the City determines a 2" snowfall for plowing, what happens when it's 1.75" - no plowing? Another 1.75" — no plowing. Now you're up to 3.5*'— does it get plowed? This is an excellent start/reasonable. The survey showing IS surrounding communities indicates that this really is the "thing to do". This is a major safety issue for the whole community. It will make us safer walking and running and driving by getting people off the roads. This will help our residents stay healthier through the winter. Increased tax base due to increased property assessments in Eagan and Dakota County can be used to fund pan of project. City should run the entire program and I'll pay my fav share. I say all or none — let's do it right the fust time. Government's basic responsibility is the protection of the lives and property of its citizens. Trail maintenance is a significant safety issue in that unmaintained trails force people into the street for nearly five months of the year. Eagan cannot promote itself as a fust class city without meeting basic safety needs of its citizens. On Blackhawk Road near the Park and Ride area, the shrubs by the sidewalk are so overgrown that only one person has room to walk. Things like this should be taken care of. All sidewalks and trails should be maintained twelve months a year. No new sidewalks should be allowed without properly assessing the need. Maintenance is pan of the cost of any building project. Safety should be the primary concern. Many residents need to use sidewalks for transportation and exercise, they are a safe place for children to play. Proper maintenance will increase use of sidewalks and trails Highest priority should go to clearing a path along those streets without shoulders; these should be cleared first. Do trails along streets with shoulders and trails in residential areas later. I think Yankee Doodle Road should be plowed on the north side rather than the south side, particularly from Heritage Lane to Pilot Knob. This would better sere the high density of people living nosh of Yankee Doodle and west of Coachman Road. City needs to be more creative when looking at or proposing different methods of snow removal. Existing City equipment (with the addition of snow removal attachments) and the hiring of seasonal "on call" personnel should be analyzed for feasibility and presented as an alternative I am amazed at how much debate is going into this! This should be a "non -issue". Consider the fraction of Eagan residents using the trails compared to the fraction using the ice arena, swimming facility. I am also amazed reading the dollar amounts this would require (in the newspaper) compared to what was described at the town meeting. Will it increase by 30% to 50% again, the next time it is discussed? I was very disappointed in the presentation with the filming of various scenarios of removing snow — it couldn't have been portrayed in a more negative way! It was presented as if snow removal on paths had never been done before and as if the presenters were actually going to be out in the snow shoveling the paths. I can't believe there is even a debate when one person has already died and every other city in the metropolitan area is doing it! G 114UMISC/AVs IaSu Summa" 3 3 GENERAL COMMENTS SUMMARY WINTER MAINTENANCE OF TRAILS & SIDEWALKS city of eagan TO: TOM HEDGES, CITY ADMINISTRATOR MEMO FROM: JOANNA FOOTE, CONIMUNICATION/RECYCLING COORDINATOR DATE: MAY 19, 1998 SUBJECT: COMMENTS VIA E-MAIL REGARDING WI ITER TRAEL MALNTENANCE We have been collecting comments from the public regarding winter trail maintenance in a number of formats. This memo is a brief summary of the comments received via electronic mail. To date we have received 16 e-mails since 4-1-98. All of the comments have been in favor of maintaining trails in the winter. The City Council has had these e-mails forwarded to them in the informative memos, as the comments have been received. This is only meant as a summary of the general comments that have been included: --Implementing ordinance requiring adjacent property owners to be responsible for clearing trails/sidewalks. 6 in favor _2*_ against *Hardship would be created for many residents if required to clear trails/sidewalks adjacent to property. (1) *Involved in pilot program... if we have to clear, all property owners should have to clear, not just certain areas. --If were going to build trails we need to maintain them year round. (2) --Clear routes adjacent to major streets. (4) --Taxes have already gone up, where is all that extra money going. It should be used for this purpose (1) --Make commitment each spring to fix resulting lawn/tree damage. (2) --Would rather spend $7 million on trail maintenance than aquatic facility (1) --Willing to spend up to $40 per year to clear trails (1) --5200,000 annual program or S 14.61 per year is probably more than we need but clearing should be done. (1) --Should be paid for through property taxes/willing to pay extra. (3) --This project will help build pride in the community (1) --This should be a requirement of our City not a luxury. (1) --Include Rahn Road and Beau de rue, Nichols. (2) --Maintain trails near bus routes and clear bus stops so we don't have to stand and wait in street (4) --Dangerous for handicapped and older people. (1) --Should be cleared within 12-24 hours after snowfall. (1) --Have signed previous petitions supporting a program of this type. (1) --Should be cleared after 1-2 inches of snow falls. (1) --Please include trails near Northview Park and Elrene Road.(1) I have kept copies of all of these correspondences if you or the City Council members would like to have them. I have also received a petition from residents of the "Trotter's Ridge" neighborhood which is also attached. Please let me know if I can provide further information. Communication/Recycling Coordinator Cc: Tom Colbert, Director of Public Works Thomas P. Immen 833 Trotters Ridge Eagan, MN 55123 May 15, 1998 Mr. Tom Colbert City of Eagan 3830 Pilot Knob Road Eagan, MN 55122 Re: Winter Trail Maintenance Plan Dear Mr. Colbert: After attending the informational meeting maintenance plan, I discussed the matter Each was unaware of the survey which the very supportive of the program. on the proposed winter trail with a few of my neighbors. city was conducting but was I decided to discuss the matter with as many residents of the Trotters Ridge subdivision as I could. The result is the enclosed statement, signed by loot of the neighbors with whom I was able to discuss the issue, to support a winter maintenance plan. This group of 43 homeowners represents 90$ of our subdivision. We would like this statement to be delivered to the City Council to show our strong support for a winter maintenance plan. The city's survey also included a question which asks whether there is a segment of trail which should be added to the maintenance plan. Once again loot of the residents polled request that the segment of Northview Park Road from Lexington Avenue to Elrene be added to the maintenance program. while this section of road does not fall into the guidelines as currently proposed, there are a number of compelling reasons for its inclusion. These include: * Proximity to the High School. The road is a main access point for the High School, Middle School and Elementary School. * Many of the drivers along this route are inexperienced students traveling to and from school. * High traffic counts. * Excessive Speeds. Northview Park Road is notorious for speeding. Mr. Tom Colbert May .18, 1998 Page 2 It was also clear in my discuss�ibns with my neighbors. that all felt the City hasdft'e' -a very g6od ,job in res'q&kch' T.ngA the, ."iAs"s'up and. p,utt�ing forth a plan thatls •both practical and. Our neighborhood believes that the time has come t4dr'IlKel`�6 'adopt the program. Thank YOU for your consideration. like to ditscuss th&..;TtatterJur,t'her, during the day at 6112-820-1628. sincerely, Thomas P. Immen hrO 37 If you have any qpes.,tions or would::.; a�te please -dIt"jo� fibt: �"S�J to c'a.1'I" me. 1L_ A Trail Maintenance Comments The undersigned hereby support the proposed Eagan winter Trail Maintenance Plan. Proposed Amendment By writing yes, the undersigned supports an amendment to the plan to include the segment of Northview Park Road from Lexington Avenue to Elrene. 1 Proposed Amendment Address eoo lei 1 CS �y7Ti TTC)"'S )ZIOC, Llj�' 1tr16 fl .. t ct � - 64L7Z4a 3 �G, Trail Maintenance Comments The undersigned hereby support the proposed Eagan winter Trail Maintenance Plan. Proposed Amendment By writing yes, the plan to include the Avenue to,,Er�ne. 1_ f 1so 'j'zX undersigned supports an amendment to the segment of Northview Park Road from Lexington ItrI6 Proposed Amendment -7- Address (5-:- tn. /2 '7'7 Trail MaintenancelComments The undersigned hereby support the p Maintenance Plan. Proposed Amendment By writing yes, the undersigned sup plan to include the segment of North Avenue to Elrene. Name r Proposed Amendment osed Eagan Winter Tr,'ail an amendment to the -Park Road from Lexington Address 7geT7a)e5 lQ& 'J TI 2; &C� �.�� �s� TE,:r x> _,QzO6F PROPERTY TAX INNIPACTS WINTER MAINTENANCE OF TRAILS & SIDEWALKS 4I Tax MOP P..."PR"Opporty, 19981 Home Value.., City 1"ei $100,000 $270 $130,000 $397 $160,000 $521 $2001'000 $687' $250,000 $895 'Ta,,vino. fbrS450.000 .Pro ta-M Cost $ 3.27 4.77 $ 6.27 $ 8.27 10.76 :t. ORDINANCE NO. 2ND SERIES AN ORDINANCE OF. THE CITY OF EAGAN, MINNESOTA, AMENDING EAGAN' CITY CODE CHAPTER THREE ENTITLED "MUNICIPAL & PUBLIC UTILITIES" BY AMENDING SECTION 3.20 REGARDING RULES & REGULATIONS RELATING TO OUTDOOR WATER USAGE; AND BY ADOPTING BY REFERENCE EAGAN CITY CODE CHAPTER 1 AND SECTION 3.99. The City Council of the City of Eagan does ordain: Section 1. Eagan City Code Chapter is hereby amended by adding Subd. 13 to Section 3.20, to read as follows: Subd. 13. Outdoor wafer usage. No owner or occupant of premises shall use Citv supplied water for outdoor usage, including but not ,.limited to: sorinlding or otherwise watering his/her lain, landscaped areas or gardens: washine any car, house or drivewm,.; pool maintenance: or any other use' outdoors, in violation of this Subdivision. No owner or occupant of premises shall permit any other person to use City supplied water in violation of this Subdivision. A property with an odd -numbered address shall be permitted to use water The owner or occupant of the premises violating this Subdivision shall pay a charge as paragraph shall be billed to the owner or occupant on the utility statement for the propertk Section 2. Eagan City Code Chapter 1 entitled "General Provisions and Definitions Applicable to the Entire City Code Including 'Penalty for Violation"' and Section 3.99, entitled "Violation a Misdemeanor" are hereby adopted in their entirety by reference as though repeated verbatim. Section 3. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect upon its adoption and publication according to law. 95 ATTEST: By: E. J. VanOverbeke Its: Clerk- Date lerk Date Ordinance Adopted: Date Ordinance Published in the Legal Newspaper: 'OFEAGAN Council Thomas A. Egan Mayor city of eagan TO: CITY COUNCIL FROM: KEN YRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION PAUL OLSON, SUPERINTENDENT OF PARKS DATE: MAY 22, 1998 MEMO SUBJECT: LEXINGTON/DIFFLEY PICNIC SHELTER CONSTRUCTION Is= During the demolition of the original Fire Administration Building the large wood arch beams were salvaged with the intention of utilizing them for the construction of a picnic shelter or other park structure. Plans have since been prepared for the construction of a 2,200 square foot picnic shelter at the Lexington Diffley Athletic Complex that incorporates a number of the beams. There are several options for the construction phasing and roofing materials. An add alternate providing for the salvaging of the beams was included in the Fire Administration bid package. Approximately 17 beams were salvaged for a cost of $4,500. The beams have a replacement value of approximately $1,500 - 51,800 each if purchased new (17 @ $1,700 = S29,000±). In March the Advisory Park Commission reviewed the proposal for use of the beams and discussed the need for a picnic shelter at Lexington Diffley. Currently there is no shelter for participants or spectators. Staff and the Commission agreed that an open sided picnic shelter was needed in close proximity to both the ball fields and soccer fields. The new service buildings being constructed this summer will provide restrooms but have limited space for team gatherings or events due to their close proximity to the viewing areas. Most of the hundreds of soccer players utilizing the many fields are under 10 years of age. The Commission recommend that funding for the project be taken from the Park Acquisition and Development Fund. "Opportunity" funding had been included in the approved 2 year C.I.P. developed by the Commission for the implementation of needed projects that are the result of unanticipated positive circumstances. J4S The picnic shelter being proposed is a seasonal open -sided structure 36' x 61' covering an area of approximately 2,200 square feet. The wooden beams) are supported by footed pilaster block columns set 8' on center. The end of each beam would be cut to make them symmetrical and consistent in size. A concrete slab covers the entire ground space. There are no utilities proposed other than electricity for low level lighting and outlet boxes. Staff has received a proposal from Greystone Construction Company for the project. The proposal is based upon a phased development that utilizes contractual labor for the construction and city staff for much of the finish work. Phase I Concrete/masonry lump sum cost $24,044 I Phase II Beams and roof decking lump sum cost $19,977 Phase III (alternate) Metal roof lump sum cost I $ 7,545 (shingles deduct $1,000 - $2,000) s� The beams will create a roof with a 2/12 slope. The designer and material suppliers have indicated that a shingled roof should have a minimum slope of 3/13. A shingled roof with a slope of less than 3/12 is much more susceptible to ice and wind damage and is more likely to develop leaks. Staff is suggesting that a metal roof be used in lieu of shingles. Though slightly more expensive a metal roof is more efficient and %,ually appealing than a membrane or rolled roof which are the other alternatives to shingles. Staff is seeking direction from the Council on the material options and phasing. Work could begin in late July or early August and be completed in approximately 4-6 weeks. I I I:134b\city council 141 ZO A Special City Council meeting was held on Tuesday, May 26, 1998 in the Community Room of the Municipal Center Building beginning at 5:00 p.m. Those present were Mayor Egan and Councilmembers Awada, Blomquist, and Masin. Absent was City Councilmember Wachter. Also presetitigs:ir}:.P.rRidley, Director of Public Works Colbert, Director of Parks andRecreati'o'n \%r'a'taii'L'it ;AAministrator Hedges. Both Chief of Police Geagan and Director of Finance Vari&irbeke yiicre present to review the process of the 1999 General Fund Operating Budget. „_.. 1999 GENERAi:IRUN'b'O'P£Ret— NG BUDGET The City Administrator Hedges reviewed the process for the 1999 General Fund Operating Budget stating that the State Legislature has continued levy limits through taxes payable in 1999. He further stated that because levy limits will be calculated in the same manner as last year, it is recommended that the City reduce the number of scenarios for preparation of the 1999 General Fundl 'p4tatjng Budget. Director of Finance VanOverbeke.preseritedaivo (2) scenarios which include; (1) a budget without specific limitations and depilrtmegtal,i0t.*g'ses, and (2) a budget with a five percent increase over the 1998appropriatiprt:;klesia�eiJ'[hat these are the City Administrator's instructions for prepdtatiot':of'ihe 1999 budget, stating that limiting budget preparation of these steps is a more pi 6tical approach to preparing the 1999 General Fund Operation Budget. Director of Finance VanOverbeke further stated that it was the City Council's direction that more detail be prepared..fgr.the Police Department Budget in 1999 similar to the additional information compiled fori}ie:Ftks&i3tdEteatigd Budget prepared for this year's budget. The City Administrator stated that he.t+..,ould'like to include some performance measurement for Cite services by establishing 6- ehchma&k5 with other communities to determine how affective and efficient the City:iz:perfcrrrljkig its service delivery. City Councilmember Masin stated that if the City d&rmine§4 t a particular department is exceeding the benchmarks with other communities, what can the City do for that achievement. City Administrator Hedges stated that the information needs to be shared with the community as to how efficient and affective the City is performing its service delivery along with praise to our employees for their accomplishments. Mayor Egan thanked the City Administrator and:iiarector of Finance for their input on the budget process and stated that..IW_:it(ittJg:4rity ouncil consensus on how the City Administrator should proceed with picpAYatioiti d i?1bi1.09General Operating Budget given the two (2) scenarios. Page 2/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 PROPERTY 1t3MPG'i i:41VCE'6kDINANCE City Administrator Hedges siAW that the planning:staff has assembled property maintenance information from surrouitdiirg.communW64 in an effort to receive direction from the City Council relative to a Pr He Ordinance. He stated that the City has received a number of calls about certain Itome5'ffiat are in disrepair in neighborhoods as well as the storage of large recreational vehicles. He stated that there is some expectation that the City Council will be addressing these issues in an ordinance. Senior Planning Ridley explaioi4:0ge Wntenance and accessory building items in detail using regulatory exarripies'irori $3doriiiitgian, Burnsville, Richfield and St. Louis Park that were compiled in a report by B#2itner Bo4irmis. Mr. Ridley recognized Mr. Kirmis who was in the audience for his rastarch in preparing the report for the City Council review. Senior Planner Ridle . furthet;ttated ttj it:(he main issues for review by the City Council is recreational vehicle sia# ge iegil32pgtjs:governing the maintenance of single family homes and whether the City should provide'additional clarity in its ordinance relative to accessory buildings on single family residential properties. Mayor Egan stated that the City does need to look at accessory buildings, specifically, how man}, are too man}±:and to regulate the size of accessory buildings. In regard to property maintenance,City Cou�eiltnember Awada stated that the goal should be that properties are well maintained, so*dht�3iivs% dges,not hurt the value of other homes in neighborhoods. She stated that her main cQncem iit 2ddressing a Property Maintenance Ordinance is the exterior of buildings. Mayor Egan spoke regardingahi ivpe D#outside storage that should be regulated stating that some are more importarrt'while others are more discretionary. City Councilmember Awada again stated that property values and building values are her foremost concern and that campers and cars for sale on private property are okay, however, some discretionary enforcement is,(*,a if ihe;sale of these vehicles in any way impact surrounding properties. Senior Planner Ridley again stated thai:*6ff is 4k'ing for direction on recreational vehicles and exterior building features and natei,ery iteni.Jisted in the report such as weeds, on site wells, garbage, firewood and other reldied uses. #Ze further stated that the City has ordinances in place to address many of these other issues:' City Councilmember Blomquist stated that she has mixed emotions on the storage of recreational vehicles. Mayor Egan agreed stating that possibly the vehicles should be properly covered, if it is being stored on residential property. Senior Planner Ridley stated that in some cases a recreational vehicle is so. large that it blocks the view of neighboring property. -.Which has generated complaints and a request that the City provide some regulation on this isW. City Councilmember Masiri:9 d'##ief'i6 : 7-4:tiiould restrict the number of non - motorized vehicles to possibly one vehicle. Mayor Egan also stated that staff should revied' boarding houses in residential neighborhoods along with its review of the property maintenance ordinance. Page 3/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 After further discussion regat;i mg the proposed ordinance, it was agreed that staff would provide a summary of the orditiattce regulations refative to issues such as weeds, noise, firewood and the related, and pecta'ning to the prepatation of an ordinance, it would individually address property maintenafi¢irtuyMicle stf0i?ge and accessory buildings. There was a City Council consensus on approii Yd: tii4;P e`rty Maintenance Ordinance, first, recognizing that a draft would require a review and public hearing by the Advisory Planning Commission and eventual review and consideration by the City Council. PRESENTATIONBUILDF&&.:AwSSO L. TION.OF THE TWIN CITIES Mr. Dave May representing the BuifdeiiiAssocig(.6 of the Twin Cities appeared to show a video tape entitled "The Future is Nowwhich drarhatically depicts the Twin Cities' dwindling land supply and affordable housing' dues. I i� 4ay stated that the video was prepared by the Builders Assoc iatiort.:Mdtrtiipss;to:pt ¢'nt the severity of the crisis. Following the viewing of the video tape;,pity Coahtibiieinbers participated in a general discussion with Mr. May regarding the type of housing needs that are most desirable for the community. Mayor Egan stated that he is concerned about the issue of affordable housing and would agree to some smaller lots, but not for the entire City. Mr. May stated that it was not his intention to advocate all small lots. Mayor Egan thanked Mr. M4: -:fp. to have this discussion on future housing updating its Comprehensive Guide Plan. WINTER dialogue stating that it was appropriate te.City Council is in the process of POLICY The City Administrator Hedges stated that the City Council has held preliminary discussions regarding the community's interest in winter maintenance of sidewalks and trails at Special City Council meetings held on March 24 and April 7. On May 4, a community informational meeting was held in the City Council Chambers allowing residents to provide Public input and comment on thePropo..:.:rlmantenance program which consisted of 45 plus miles of winter maintenance:' IIe'fiiitiiet:stiiiedithat following the May 4 meeting, the public record was left open until May 15 with the understanding that all the comment results of the survey that has been distributed tEi bughou{:26e community would be reviewed at the May 26 Special City Council meeting.:;;:;:: Director of Public Works Colbert stated that in response to the community meeting held on May 4, and survey results, the draft trail maintenance plan has been revised to either add trails or reverse the side of the street the trails will be maintained due to public input. Mayor Egan raised questions about the maintenance of -the- trail on the north side of Yankee Doodle Road to the Eagan Promenade stating that it ha$been the intention of the City to promote walkers to the Promenade attd.tJlat•4egmo)ta6rail should be considered for winter maintenance. Director of Public Woik$.l A :Kl agiee l{i h the suggestion and stated that this is an example where there shouI e'a corices—tf n to'plow trails on both sides of Yankee Doodle Road west of Lexington Avenue to serve the EAgan Promenade. City Councilmember Masin asked if the same rationale should apply to the Coachman Shops located on Yankee Doodle Road and Coachman Road. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that the reason the trail maintenance proposal is only located on the south side, is due Page 4/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 to a controlled intersection at Coachi:ii8h and Yankee DaW)p allowing people to walk to the shops. City Councilmember Masin ask :'a"bout,soz.: id ice application on trails and is there any reason we are proposing to not apply i#ks:sitiiilar to city streets. Both Director of Public Works Colbert and Superintendent of Streets Erhart stated that sand and salt application on a trailway will not provide the same impact as city streets. Mr. Erhart stated that vehicular movement facilitates the thawing and melting of ice and snow and without that movement, a salt application will cause.a:pitup&go:the trails that may cause more liability than benefit. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that on6&'the winter trail maintenance program is implemented, it is expected that "itity wilF iitteive requests from residents to add certain trail segments to be included:wRh tli..:WinteYilail maintenance program. He further stated that it will be necessary16'iie4elop'a:po ky that establishes criteria as to when the City Council would consider any modifications to the established winter trail maintenance program. After further discussion, the City Council reached a consensus that a petition would be required from a minimum of 50 residents within approximately/ mile from the requested trail expansion to be given consideration. It was also determined that the criteria would include that all petitio}isiwould be presented for City Council consideration in April/May during preparation of the .ffi.4fi .. :-s ennual operating budget. Director of Public Works Colbert reminded the City Council thai'fFie:cost: is estimated at $3500 for each mile of winter trail maintenance. Director of Public Works Colber446ioi;ed'other aspects of the proposed winter trail and sidewalk maintenance plan reviewiiig'ten (I o) policies which include; (1) School districts will continue to remove snow on the sidewalks where they are currently responsible for the snow removal under the pilot program. (2) Snow removal shall be required after a minimum snow accumulation of two inches. (3) Snow removal operations will begin within 24 hours after snow fall cessation. (4) The snow removal will attempt to be completed on all trails within 24 hours after the starttip;;.(5};l (icGityTei)fQval operations will be performed through contractual services. (6) Wiiite`r'iiiaintettt+rtce-will be limited to snow removal only and will not include ice control. (7) No hand:yiibrk will:be performed under City operations. (8) Any cleanup of windows and spillage in dr.Neways' P.sulting from City snow removal operations will be the responsibility of the affi'di:d propc{#y owner. (9) The City will not be liable for any incidental damage to turf, driveways, irrigafion systems or landscaping located within public easements or right-of-way. Repair and restoration will be the responsibility of the adjacent property owner unless caused by operator negligence. City Councilmembers raised questions regarding this policy item as to the definition of incidental damage. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that it is not uncommon:when plowing trails or streets that the force of the snowplowing blade can cause some scrateftittg across the driveway surface which may raise a concern with some residetlS�;.;S.ype�intCP•deni of Streets Erhart stated that it is not always possible to plow, a straight liitQtrtfiFirai}s CbpC (ally with the first snow fall and as a result a plow blade will catch the soscap'e''maierial doing some damage. Mayor Egan suggested that residents be informed of an optior :f -:place small flag indicators along their sidewalk to help mark the plow route. After furth6t:discussion, City Councilmembers concurred with the criteria stated. (10) Many obstructions existing on or encroaching into the trailway system will result in the City skipping that segment and the violating property owner will be responsible for performing the snow removal within'the required time frame or the Page 5/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 costs incurred by the City to do so. C households have multiple cars which would cause the plow to drive over a object. After a brief discussion, City or of Public W&ks Colbert stated that some extend beyond, the sidewalk alignment which irea in order..WO around the vehicles or similar tcilsf!emk0�eed on this criteria. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that under the pilot program, trailways abutting residential property owners are plowed by the homeowner. He stated that it is the proposal of staff that all trails be plowed as a part of the contractual arrangement by the City. He further suggested that the schooldj'trictacp.4tinue;{>eTfWming snow removal as they had been doing under the pilot program. z:firiediscic8icfi, the City Council concurred with this policy to be incorporated in the City .'. nance::::::::: Paul Olson, Superintendent of Parks,;Af,3i'ed that �t blems he experienced in working for a previous community that hadavkrtb :trail-rapimtenance program, was the need to enforce the location of garbage cans outside the acfuat traiIway and further to educate commercial establishments to not dump snow from their parking lots on to the trail area. Director of Public Works Colbert summarized the winter trail maintenance program as modified stating that the City is adding seven (7) additional miles for a total of 54 miles and reminded the City Council that thi:: ost per mile is estimated at $3500 which will be included in the General Operating Bud&f4i gdesI&or 1999. Mayor Egan thanked the staff for an excellent job in developing the program'A'S':;Tireiiied by the City Council and further stated that the program will be further addressed at a.publit hearing before the Council at the June 2 City Council meeting. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that in 1990 the City Council formally adopted a permanent water conservation and management program that restricted lawn sprinkling activities to an odd/even Program. He further stated that this was an action adopting a policy provided for undej;i}ie' eia,F[eklt:Ci'tjr orsiill4nces and for the past eight (8) years, the City has been enforcing thd'od&even fesfr'rc#ion'through a series of mail notification and door hanger tags. Director of Public Woks Colbert further stated that on certain occasions, the staff has enforced comp lance by physically turning off the sprinkler at the hose bibs. The problem according to Direat0'.r of Pubiic Works Colbert is the lack of compliance by residents and the City's lack of a progratfi4b,enforce compliance for these residents who ignore the odd/even restriction. Mr. Colbert further stated that people become extremely upset if the City makes an attempt to shut off the water. He stated that one option is adopting a formal ordinance regarding rules and regulations relating to outdoor water usage for the more effective method of enforcement. Hestated that enforcement could include surcharges added to the utility bill in lieu of enfDreement as an ordinance violation through District Court. Director of Public Works Colbert statedihat the reason for raising the issue in addition to minimizing non-compliance is the need to si{2ve peak usage or face the alternative to construct more deep wells, pump stations and reservpiis to meet the increased water demands at significantly more cost. City Councilmember Masin stated that she would prefer more education as to why the odd/even program is necessary before implementing the proposed ordinance. Mayor Egan stated that it is also his opinion that the City should Page 6/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 maintain the current system and wort i"refer to defer arfy;Ebnsideration of an ordinance. After discussion, there is a concurrent* -by the City Council that the City would continue and increase the water conservation educaiitih,program wit#.i44ditional flyers, monitor compliance and the odd/even restrictiorv.: llck;ke O:Lfl, sed on a voluntary compliance basis for the time being. ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN/DISCUSS OPERATIONS FOR THE FA LILY AQUATIC POOL FACILITY The City Administrator Hedgeir:afa6ed i�42(:Afti .is iiteeting and discussing operations such as staffing, marketing, admission costs ajlil other re{$ttd activities that require advance planning to open the facility on June I, 1999. He further stated that the City Council had asked for pictures regarding the architecturak'(f 4ign of buildings which include the bath- house and administration. Director OF.P.. j;JW �ieCf2$ti¢n Vraa presented a number of pictures of bath -houses and administi' ti6h buildirtgsthii were supplied by Water Technologies, the City's design consultant. The photos were from a number of cities, primarily in the upper mid -west. After reviewing the pictures,. made to blend the elevation, image ar and Municipal Center/Police Departri buildings should be playful, project a quality purpose and make a positive s complex. was a general consensus that an attempt should be istruction materials with the library, Civic Arena iii Fdipgs. There is also consensus that the :al'eleiii ;consist of masonry materials for lent for entr2ggt'to the Aquatic Pool Facility Director of Parks and Recre4*hO`t Vraa stated that he will take this direction back to the architect as they begin to prepare some preliminary designs for City Council consideration. Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa stated that he had a recent meeting with representatives of the Dakota County; cd iiieiititt$alia't 3.. re should be no problem with the County granting an easement for the City io iri'cliide'ap oximately 5,000 square feet of library property into the Aquatic Pool Facilityi; tae furt0istated that as part of the condition for approval of the easement, the library wantedeight ($);conditions met. They requested directional lighting and that the sound systemitiiit play dil4ic. Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa stated that lighting should not be a pro6tetn in that the library would be closed the majority of the time lights would be used at the pool facility. He stated that in regards to the sound system, there has not been any policy decision reached by the City Council, however, it might be more appropriate that the City and County approve an acceptable decibel level. Director of Parks and Recreat):gii Vraa reviewed other conditions mentioned by the County, indicating this item would be>i'O the County Board's workshop agenda for Tuesday, June 2. Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa also discussed a season pass concept that would work similar to the picture card that is issued byl-fe Time Fitness to its members. He further stated that either a bar code or magnetic strip wd d be included on the card that wobld provide the City with appropriate information about attendance and other related data. He further stated that if the card is designed with the magnetic strip, it could be used as a Page 7/Special City Council Minutes May 26, 1998 debit card for purchase of concession$ estimate, based on population and sale could sell up to 8,800 passes and prow: on how involved just that aspect is for rector of Park�:aiid Recreation Vraa gave an season passes in.pther communities, that the City some add iti.apal:appreciation for the City Council Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa stated that the staff has not projected the rates for admission fees, however, it is anticipated that each person at the complex will spend a minimum of $1.00 on concessions. He stated that the estimate is 100,000 participants during the first year. City Councilmember Ekotpgpist:stgted that.she has had a lot of input from the community and the expectation for aBt4ii$Sitiii CNt 0*" ss: rithe $2.00 to $3.00 range. City Councilmember Awada stated that it is her un*' tanding,":". at other communities are charging admission rates that are higher than that. City Cou: ncilmember Masin stated that she has heard some concern from residents who hiikc.enjoyt ..We of the wading pool at no cost and a concern that the rates will prevOr.N5et3 iroi !:atseisiithg the pool complex on a daily basis. She stated that without the sesS'on'pass, it c'oiiFti-be prohibitive for a family or an individual to utilize the pool each day, which in her opinion should be given consideration. Mayor Egan thanked staff for the update on the planning for future operations of the Aquatic Pool Facility. Director of Parks and Recreation Waa and Superintendent of Parks Olson reviewed the design elements and cost of a park she3 er:4uifdirig:1hdt'is proposed at the Lexington/Diffley Athletic Park. Directzir'i Rdeks and Recreation Vraa stated that the dimension of the picnic shelter is 22FlO:sgiiare feet and will incorporate beams that were salvaeed during demolition during the Fire Administration Building. He stated that there were 17 beams salvaged at a cost of $4500 and the replacement value for the beams is approximately $1700 each for a value of $29,000. After further discussion reviews, City Councilmembers concurred with the design and drawing as presented. City Councilmember Awada'a'SkedI t}i'eteare'�a'o:plans for the wading pool that will be dismantled once the parking lot is construci'01 She f6 ther stated that it would make sense to locate wading pools throughout the City for.:,iise by yo4ft families. After a brief discussion, staff was directed to research locaiMs and ti}iother it is feasible to locate wading pools at two or three sites throughout the community. OTHER BUSINESS There being no further business, the meeting was:adjourned at 9:00 p.m. DATE :::::::::CITY CLERK TLH