03/05/1987 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
_EAGAN, MINNESOTA
MARCH 5, 1987
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission was called
to order by Vice Chairperson Thurston at 7:00 p.m. Members present were
Porter, Sames, Bertz, Thurston, Caponi, Carroll, Kubik, and Masin. Staff
present were the Director of Parks and Recreation, Ken Vraa; Parks
Planner /Landscape Architect, Steve Sullivan; John VonDeLinde, Superintendent
of Parks; and Planner, Jim Sturm. Other visitors were present for specific
agenda items. -
AGENDA
On a motion by Porter, seconded by Carroll, with all members voting in favor,
the agenda, with the addition of garden plots, was approved.
MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 5, 1987
It was noted on page 8 of the minutes that the word "recommendation" should be
inserted, and on page 7 "is" should be inserted in the second line. On a
motion by Carroll, seconded by Bertz, with all members voting in favor, the
minutes of February 5, 1987 were approved as amended. _
MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 11, 1987 SPECIAL MEETING
Mr. Porter noted changes in the final paragraph concerning the recommendation
to the City Council. On a motion by Carroll, seconded by Kubik, minutes of
the Special Meeting of February 11, 1987 were approved as amended.
LEXINGTON PARKVIEW ADDITION
The Director of Parks and Recreation stated that staff had met with the
developer to review the issues relative to the proposed grades for Parkview
Road. Relative to the sharing of road costs, it is estimated at $17,500 for
the City's share. The Director stated that the department has two
alternatives; separate contracts or reduce the parks dedication on other
projects to represent the value of the road construction cost in Lexington
Parkview. After further discussion and explanation, on a motion by Kubik,
seconded by Bertz, with all members voting in favor, it was recommeded that
staff take appropriate action for the funding and sharing of the roadway for
this plat.
DANBURY ADDITION
Planner Sturm reviewed the proposed Danbury Addition which was an exception
within the Lexington Square Development. With review, the Commission
recommended to the City Council, on a motion by Mr. Sames, seconded by Mr.
Kubik, that a cash dedication requirement be a condition of plat approval.
Adv. Parks & Rec. Comm.
March 5, 1987
Page Two
SUNRISE ADDITION
Planner Sturm reviewed the proposed Sunrise Addition on Wescott Road, east of
the proposed park/school site. Commission member Carroll expressed concern
for the cul-de-sac which may result in erosion to this depression. Mr. Sturm
stated that the Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation Service recently
entered into a contract with the City concerning erosion control measures.
The Director of Parks and Recreation reviewed the proposed exchange of land
between the Sunrise Addition and the park/school site. The trades would be
processed through a quit claim deed. After additional -discussion, there was a
motion by Bertz, seconded by Kubik, with all members voting in favor, that
Sunrise Addition be responsible for a cash dedication, a trail on Wescott, and
a pedestrian trail to the park/school site.
WOODLANDS ADDITION
Planner Sturm reviewed the proposed Woodlands Addition, immediately east of
the Sunrise Addition. After discussion, on a motion by Bertz, seconded by
Kubik,. with all members voting in favor, the Advisory Commission recommended
that there be a trail on Wescott Road, a trail to the school/parksite through
the Sunrise Addition, and a cash dedication requirement.
OLD BUSINESS
CARNELIAN PARK
1
The Director of Parks and Recreation reviewed the comments received at the
Carnelian Park neighborhood meeting. A number of suggestions and comments
were received at the meeting which have been incorporated into planned
improvements for the parks. Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Steve Sullivan
explained the planning process and the limitations of the present park site.
The residents wished the hockey rink to remain at its present location, but be
repaired and upgraded. A single ball field is to be placed internally, but
closer to the parking lot. An internal trail and importation of topsoil or
other materials to create some topographic relief with massive plantings will
be required. After further explanation of the concept plan, Mr. Sullivan
reviewed two alternatives for the area identified as the play equipment and
hard court surfaces. The alternatives involved incorporating horseshoe,
basketball, and soccer kickboards.
Several residents of the neighborhood were present to ask questions regarding
the plan. Several residents spoke in favor of the plan, but rejected the idea
of incorporating the basketball/soccer hard court space into one area, citing
the limited space available. There were numerous questions regarding
financing, timing, ball field distances, plant material, etc. After
additional discussion, residents complimented the Advisory Parks and
Recreation Commission and staff on the plan and their willingness to listen to
the residents' concerns. Upon a motion by Kubik, seconded by Carroll, with
all members voting in favor, staff was directed to proceed with the final
construction documents for Carnelian Park shown on Plan Alternate B.
Adv. Parks & Rec. Comm.
March 5, 1987
Page Three
COMMUNITY CENTER STUDY - STEP 2
The Director of Parks and Recreation reviewed his memorandum contained in the
packet, saying he felt the next step would be to do a sampling of the
community relative to its needs. He suggested that representatives of the
hockey association, figure skating groups, and swim groups be invited to
provide input and information to the Commission. It was agreed that this
would be the most logical step. Mr. Caponi questioned why the Commission
should consider listening to additional people and collect more information
before it has determined the philosophy of a community center. The Director
responded that these people could provide additional information and expertise
to allow the Commission the opportunity to know what the community has an
interest in. Further, it is important to allow these groups to represent
their views early in the Commission study. Mr. Kubik said that he felt it
would be important to see some additional literature on this subject from
perhaps, professional journals. Director VFaa responded that he has collected
additional data that can be shared with the Commission. Mr. Kubik stated he
hoped that if we bring additional people in, we will pay attention to more
than just the special interest groups. Chairperson Thurston stated that she
was in agreement with the next step as had been previously laid out and that
the Commission should set a meeting date. After discussion, the Director of
Parks and Recreation was asked to establish March 25, 7:00 p.m. for this
meeting.
BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD PARK SHELTER
The Director told the Advisory Commission that the Finance Committee of Blue
Cross/Blue Shield of Minnesota has approved, and will be recommending to the
Board, the expenditures for the expansion of the Blue Cross/Blue Shield Park
facility to include shower and locker rooms. Staff will be meeting with a
representative of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Minnesota to advance these plans.
Director Vraa responded to a question indicating that the recent meeting with
Schwarz-Weber Architects had set April 30 as a tentative bid opening date for
shelter bidding.
GARDEN PLOTS
Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa reviewed the discussion at the last
Advisory Commission meeting concerning garden plot sites. Superintendent
VonDeLinde commented that the Lexington/Diff ley sites, Rahn park site and
Pilot Knob park site had also been reviewed and found to be inadequate because
of traffic, poor soil, or lack of space. There was discussion by the Advisory
Commission relative to the best alternatives. Commission members commented
that while none of the sites were ideal, the program should be continued.
Director Vraa was asked for his recommendation concerning the site. After
discussion, it was the consensus of the Advisory Commission for staff to
proceed with the garden plot site under the Highline adjacent to Dodd Road.
It was noted that this would be a temporary location until a suitable site
could be located elsewhere.
Adv. Parks & Rec. Comm.
March 5, 1987
Page Four
PARKS DEVELOPMENT
Chairperson Thurston noted that there were several residents in the audience
from the Lakeside Park neighborhood. The Commission was asked to take up this
item. %
The Director of Parks and Recreation reviewed the history of the park systems
plan, the neighborhood meetings, and the selection and approval of a plan for
Lakeside Park. He stated that several residents had been in contact with the
department over the last several days. The resident adjacent to the park was
very much opposed to the proposed plan, while others were very supportive.
The Director continued, saying that the plan for the park had not changed from
the plan that was approved in 1983 and that staff had continued with the
planning for development of this park under the approved '84 bond referendum.
Landscape Architect Steve Sullivan reviewed the existing park site and
elements that affect its design. The systems plan located a ball field in the
park, relocated a play structure, and prov tded for a hard courts play area. A
trail is to be provided along the north edge of the park, beneath overhead
powerlines. Because the park is small, little can be done to incorporate more
than what is shown. Mr. Sullivan explained the tree line, maintenance line,
etc.
There were several questions by residents of the Commission regarding the size
of the ball field and who might use it. Mr. Dahl, an adjacent resident, spoke
J against the plan. He was concerned about the destruction-of the trees and
disruption to wildlife. He further stated that the ball field would be used
by adult groups which would encourage drinking and disuse of the park.
In response to a question from the audience, the Director of Parks and
Recreation stated that this is not a scheduled facility. Adult league games
are played at two community athletic sites and youth games are scheduled at
school sites and parks with adequate parking. This site would not be a
scheduled site, but for use by neighborhood pick-up groups. He went on to say
that the 220-foot foul line distances are sufficient for younger children, but
older groups would find it too small for their use. In response to the issue
of destruction to vegetation, Mr. Sullivan stated that the City forester had
done an inventory and analysis of the trees on the park. The trees taken
would be box elder and other volunteer growth vegetation of a very small
diameter. Larger ash trees with approximately 4" diameters would be lost, but
the majority of mature trees would be saved and would not be affected by this
plan. There were other questions regarding the size of the play equipment,
trails, disruption of wildlife, and the utilization of the park. Several of
the residents spoke in favor of the plan, citing that children are often now
playing in the cul-de-sacs and streets because there is limited play space at
the park presently. Chairperson Thurston asked Mr. Dahl if the backstop
should be moved to an alternate location, one which would place it next to the
house. Mr. Dahl opposed this and stated that his desire was not to have any
ball field or any development. After additional discussion, Mr. Caponi stated
that he accepted the plan, even though he had not been involved with it
Adv. Parks & Rec. Comm.
March 5, 1987
Page Five
before, that the size of the parcel. limited the alternatives available, and
that this was a good parks plan given the restrictions. Mr. Caponi then made
a motion to accept the plan and for staff to proceed with construction
documents. The motion was seconded by Carroll, with all members voting in
favor.
HIGHVIEW SKATING RINK
Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa referred to his memorandum in the packet
concerning the elimination or repair of the Highview -skating rink. A video
tape was played for the Commission which was taken of the hockey rink, open
skating area, and park shelter building. During the playing 'of the tape, the
Director pointed out the poor condition of the hockey boards and attempts at
repair made by staff.
After presentation of the video tape, members of the Commission acknowledged
the very poor condition of the hockey boards and the embarrassment to the
parks system. Commission questioned cost for replacement of the hockey boards
only. Director Vraa responded that material costs are approximately $10,000 -
$12,000. In response to a question about the building, the Director indicated
that the replacement structures are now estimated at about $22,000. There
were questions relative to the number of skaters, relocation of light poles,
the status of a broomball program using the facility, as well as other general
questions. Mr. Caponi, seconded by Mr. Carroll, recommended that staff remove
the hockey boards, regrade the disrupted area, and leave a free skating rink.
All voted in favor.
CONSENT AGENDA
Director Vraa questioned whether the Commission would approve of the use of a
consent agenda for the more routine items pertaining to developer proposals.
Member Kubik questioned whether items could be removed from the consent
agenda. Finding that this could be done, on a motion by Sames, seconded by
Kubik, with all members voting in favor, the Commission asked that the consent
agenda be used.
ARBOR DAY
Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa stated that the department had been
working on an Arbor Day program to highlight and focus on the importance of
tree planting and reforestation. Superintendent VonDeLinde stated that the
third Saturday in April is National Arbor Day. He explained the Saturday, •
April 25 planned program, for the planting of trees at Meadowlands Park. After
additional explanation, members of the Commission expressed positive support
and excitement over the program. Member Caponi stated that the Commission
should function responsibly and express its main interest in this program.
Director Vraa asked for the Commission's response to a proposal entitled "Buy
A Tree/Get A Tree". He stated that the City would purchase trees at a
Adv. Parks & Rec. Comm.
March 5, 1987
Page Six
discount and then sell them to residents along with a free tree. Sandy Bertz
suggested that the individuals be allowed to buy a tree and then donate a tree
to the parks system. Several members spoke adamantly in favor of this idea.
Member Kubik asked how this might be accomplished. After additional
discussion and comments relative to the support of this program, on a motion
by Kubik, seconded by Bertz, with all members voting in favor, $1,000 for an
Arbor Day tree planting program shall be initiated. Mr. Caponi suggested that
the Advisory Commission prepare a press release or resolution regarding the
Arbor Day program. After discussion, on a motion by Caponi, seconded by
Kubik, with all members voting in favor, staff was directed to prepare on
behalf of the Commission for its review at the next meeting, a resolution in
support of Arbor Day.
1987/1988 COMMISSION OBJECTIVES
The Director of Parks and Recreation suggested that the Commission put
together a list of items it feels are important for the staff and Commission
to address over the next several months. He explained a process for
collection that staff would be using. After additional discussion and
questioning as to the process, it was the consensus of the Commission that it
would take the following weeks to individually prepare suggestion items. A
separate meeting would be held at a future time as a brainstorming session to
further refine and prioritize these items.
PARKS DEVELOPMENT - O'LEARY PARK/VIENNA WOODS PARK
Landscape Architect Steve Sullivan reviewed the parks plan for O'Leary Park.
He stated that several topographic features and vegetation of this site were
important to consider and maximize. He explained that the park is devoid of
any real winter program activity and is primarily a summer park. The lineal
nature of the park lends itself to several trails and the installation of play
equipment would be located on an island surrounded by mature trees. He
described for the Commission how this would be accomplished, along with other
elements of the park. The play equipment would have to be very site specific,
utilizing wood chips and a series of timbers and soft surface materials. A
small shelter, a hard court, and a centrally-located picnic area would be
constructed. The Commission commented positively about the parks plan and
stated that Mr. Sullivan has taken a very difficult park and created an
opportunity.
Mr. Sullivan then proceeded to review the proposed Vienna Woods Park, noting
its location adjacent to I-35E and a commercial area to the north with major
restrictions. Although the size of the park is somewhat limited, an overlay
ball field and soccer area could be accommodated. He noted that these would
be undersized facilities. Commission member Carroll stated that screening of
the commercial area of the highway would be very important to this park's
plan. After additional discussion regarding the parks. and its elements, on a
motion by Carroll, seconded by Sames, staff was directed to proceed with the
` two parks plans for construction documents. -
Adv. Parks & Rec. Comm.
March 5, 1987
Page Seven
OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS
Director of Parks and Recreation Vraa reviewed items under the "Other Business
and Reports" section of the agenda. He asked the Commission if it would be
interested in having a joint Commission meeting with the Commissions of
Burnsville and Apple Valley. It was the consensus of the Commission that this
should be held in May and that it had no particular priority at this time
because of the work load.
Director Vraa stated that he had negotiated an addendum to the contract with
Schwarz-Weber Architects for the 1987 building construction and architectural
program. Because of this program being expanded from two to four buildings
and the work load of the department, he felt it would be advisable to use the
architectural firm rather than staff. Members were in agreement with this
recommendation.
The Director next explained the Police Explorers program, handing out a draft
manual that had been prepared for volunteer explorers. Members of the
Commission expressed support for this concept.
The Director next explained the contractual arrangement the City had with
Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District for enactment of erosion
control measures. Staff responded to several questions regarding frequency of
inspections and who pays for these services.
ADJOURNMENT
On a motion by Porter, seconded by Sames, the Commission meeting of March 5,
1987 was adjourned at 10:50 p.m.
9/ c
Da a Advisory Parks & Recrea on Secretary