05/07/1987 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
MAY 7, 1987
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission
was called to order by Chairman Martin at 7:00 p.m. Members present were
Porter, Sames, Alt, Martin, Thurston, Carroll, and Masin. Mr. Caponi was
unable to attend the Commission meeting. Staff present were Director of Parks
& Recreation Ken Vraa and Steve Sullivan, Landscape Architect. Other visitors
were present for specific agenda items.
AGENDA
On a motion by Carroll, seconded by Thurston, with all members
voting in favor, the agenda for May 7, 1987 was approved.
MINUTES OF APRIL 2 1987
It was noted that Commission Members Alt and Sames were omitted
from the April 2 minutes. On a motion by Thurston, seconded by Sames, with
all members voting in favor, the minutes of April 2, 1987 were approved as
amended.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following consent agenda items were presented for approval.
On a motion by Carroll, seconded by Alt, with all members voting in favor, the
Commission approved recommendation to the City Council on the following items:
(1) Eagan Royal Addition - that a cash dedication be a requirement of plat
approval;
(2) Country Hollow Addition - that a cash dedication be a requirement of plat
approval;
(3) Blue Ridge Addition - that the preliminary plat of 9.8 acres is subject
to a cash dedication requirement consistent with the City's commercial/
industrial policy;
(4) R & B Addition - that this rezoning and preliminary plat of 2.08 acres be
subject to a cash dedication requirement for commercial/industrial
.property;
(5) Laurent Addition - that this proposed lot split, creating one additional
lot, be subject to a cash dedication requirement on the newly created
lot.
ULTRA IV ADDITION
Planner Sturm and Director of Parks & Recreation Ken Vraa reviewed
the proposed Ultra IV Addition. It was noted that the developer was intending
to provide two softball fields, indoor volleyball courts, and a
restaurant/bar. In response to several questions from the Commission, Staff
responded that the developer was intending that the softball fields and
volleyball courts would.be reservable at a fee for games and league usage.-,
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However, it was unlikely that there would be any value to the Parks and
Recreation Department for usage of these fields. It was further explained
that the intent of the fields was for competitive and tournament usage. In
response to a question, the Director of Parks & Recreation explained the
credits that were available under the parks dedication policy for
commerical/industrial property which provides significant on-site recreational
resources. There were several concerns and questions regarding the
preliminary plat and the intended development. Commission Member Thurston
commented that it appeared that this was strictly a commercial venture and
would not be helpful to the City's Parks and Recreation Department in reducing
recreational pressures. After further discussion, there was a motion by
Martin, seconded by Thurston, with all members voting in favor, that this
preliminary plat be subject to a commercial cash dedication requirement
consistent with the City's policies.
Member George Kubik arrived at 7:30 p.m.
LEXINGTON POINT 2ND ADDITION
Planner Sturm reviewed the proposed Lexington Point 2nd Addition,
noting that this proposed preliminary plat was located within the Lexington
South PUD. The original usage for this site was for commercial development
but the new owners were proposing small lot single-family development.
Director of Parks & Recreation Vraa stated that the issue for the
Advisory Commission to concern itself with was that of trailways within this
residential development; insuring connections to Lexington Avenue, Diffley,
eventually the Highline Trails, Walnut Hill, and Trapp Farm Park. Director of
Parks & Recreation Vraa then explained the residential layout and how it would
affect any pedestrian or bicycle traffic to these areas. He explained that at
irst glance it would appear that the 50' NSP north/south easment would be a
logical trail connection, but that inasmuch as numerous homes were backing up
to this area, an access from the east would be extremely difficult. A similar
situation exists on the east/west Highline Trail section. The Director then
reviewed several suggestions and alternatives for trails. Mr. Brad Swenson,
representing Tri-Land, Inc., was also present to discuss the proposed trails.
He stated that he had met with the Director of Parks & Recreation to review
this issue and was in agreement with the trails recommendations made. There
were several questions by the Advisory Commission concerning the trails.
Director Vraa noted that the proposed east/west street, Lexington Parkway,
would bisect the commercial area. A trail along the street through the
commercial property would benefit the commercial area as well as provide a
safe access for residents. This would also provide a connection to Daniel
Drive which would connect to Trapp Farm Park.
Relating to the plat itself, the Director of Parks & Recreation
noted that in the southeast corner of the plat a triangular portion had been
created. The Director was recommending that, although this development had
made its dedication requirements already, this triangular portion be dedicated
to the City for incorporation into Trapp Farm Park. Mr. Swenson agreed to
this dedication. It was noted that this area consists of a significant stand
of mature oaks. It was noted that from the apparent roadway design and
proposed house platting, many of these oaks would be lost. Director Vraa
recommended to the Commission that a suggestion be made to the City Council
that the lots affecting the trees be given a variance to the 30' setback in a
effort to minimize the impact on these trees. Commission Member Kubik stated
his agreement with this and also suggested that the Commission consider a
conservation easement. Brad Swenson commented that he would be receptive to
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the variance request because he, too, wanted to preserve the oaks. He then
spoke to the issue of street width, noting that a 50' right-of-way might also
help to reduce impact to the trees as well as provide requested trail
connection to the Highline. He then explained how this would occur and the
impact that road right-of-way reduction would have on the plat. There were
numerous questions by the Advisory Commission concerning this and the
appropriateness of the Advisory Commission making this recommendation. After
further discussion, it was the concensus of the Commission that it would be
appropriate for them to make such a recommendation because of its impact to
the park, the vegetation, and the connecting trails.
On a motion by Kubik, seconded by Sames, with all members voting in favor, the
Advisory Commission has recommended to the City Council that:
(1) the developer dedicate the southeast parcel to the City for parks and
recreation purposes;
(2) the City grant a variance to the lots in the northeast next to the plat
from a 30' to a 20' setback requirement in an effort to save the oak
trees;
(3) the developer grade a trail along the north/south NSP power line, south
of the east/west road, noted as Lexington Parkway;
(4) a trail or sidewalk along the north side of Lexington Parkway be
provided;
(5) a trailway on Daniel Drive be provided from County Road 30 to Lexington
Parkway;
(6) if a trail is possible, a 50' right-of-way along the southernmost road be
provided in an effort to minimize impact to the trees; and
(7) the developer provide a 10' trailway from the north/south road within the
plat to the Highline Trail. ii gg pp
Member SandyRHfftDaffiID'LE fifDGEO.DMION
Jim Sturm stated that the developer of this plat had presented to
the City Council a revised plan to create additional space. Mr. Sturm then
reviewed the plat which had previously been reviewed by the City Council. He
stated that this would be going to the Advisory Planning Commission for a
public hearing. It was being presented to the Advisory Commission to make
them aware of the situation; although the platting plan would have no impact
on the previously negotiated parks plan. After the presentation, there were
several questions by the Advisory Commission. Members noted that there were
now three new connections to the park land which were being proposed to be
under the ownership of the homeowner's association. Members suggested that
these be dedicated as park land to alleviate any potential problems or
conflicts between the association and park users. On a motion by Thurston,,
seconded by Kubik, with all members in favor, the Advisory Commission voted to
recommend to the City Council that the three proposed connections denoted in
this revised Bridal Ridge Addition be dedicated as park land to alleviate
potential problems or conflicts in the future.
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OLD BUSINESS - LAKESIDE PARK
City Administrator Tom Hedges was present and introduced this item
to the Advisory Commission. He stated that this had been brought up at the
April 21 City Council meeting at the request of several residents who had
presented a request to deny the park plan. The City Council, recognizing the
strength of the feelings of both sides of the issue by area residents, sent
the item back to the Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission for a public
hearing. Mr. Hedges said that a letter had been sent to residents of the area
giving notice of the Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission's hearing
regarding the proposed parks development and plan.. Mr. Hedges then presented
the history of the park planning for the Lakeside Park, showing the growth of
the area, a history of the demand for parks in the Lakeside neighborhood, and
the park systems plan and processing. Mr. Hedges also noted that Commission
Member Sandy Bertz was not appointed until August of 1983 which was after the
approvals had been given to the parks system's plan by the Advisory Commission
and City Council. After additional comments, Ken Vraa, Director of Parks &
Recreation, explained the proposed development for Lakeside's park, utilizing
the parks drawings. He also discussed the concept involved in neighborhood
park planning, explaining basic neighborhood parks from the expanded parks
which include winter facilities and facilities such as ball fields. Chairman
Martin then opened the meeting to residents of the Lakeside neighborhood,
inviting their opinions on the proposed development. Mr. Doug Dahl strongly
objected to the softball field being oriented towards his house and made a
number of arguments relating to the backstop and the ball field. Another
resident questioned who owned the property to the east and if that could be
incorporated into the park. Mrs. Linda Dahl expressed concern regarding the
loss of trees on the property, fear of organized sports groups utilizing the
field, such as baseball and softball teams, and older kids scaring the
neighborhood children out of the park. A group of residents were present at
the meeting who strongly supported the park concept. A petition was presented
from thirty-one area homeowners supporting the parks plan, noting that the
total number of signatures was approximately sixty. This group stated that
they felt the number of supporters far outweighed the number of opponents to
the development of the park. They asked Mr. Dahl why he did not present his
petition. Mr. Dahl claimed his group had been harrassed by supporters of the
park so no petition was possible.
Roger Martin, Chairman of the Commission, expressed a concern that
the location of the backstop, which was the major concern of Mr. Dahl, had
been given more attention than it deserved and suggested that the park could
go ahead without the backstop. This was rejected by the supporters of the
parks plan. Residents spoke in favor of the park, stating that the fear of
having organized adults and baseball teams was irrational. A resident stated
that he plays on an adult softball team and would have no interest in going to
a small neighborhood park that had a grass infield and was not sufficiently
large enough for them to use. Member Martin also addressed the issue of lost
trees in the development of the park. He questioned the possibility of moving
some of the larger trees. Director of Parks & Recreation Ken Vraa responded
that the Parks Department would work with the contractor to save as many trees
as possible, but noted that the majority of the trees were considered scrub
varieties. Significant trees were being saved with the parks plan. Members
expressed their commitment to saving as many trees as possible in all parks
development. In response to a question from a resident concerning the ponding
problem, Mr. Vraa stated that currently the lake did not have a controlled
outlet. and, consequently, in high water time periods floods across the park.
During construction of the park, a storm sewer will be connected to the lake
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to control the level at its established elevation. Mrs. Dahl questioned the
amount of grading and the loss of vegetation and destruction to the park. Mr.
Vraa presented the grading plan which had been prepared for construction
ocuments. He noted the grading limits to the park, noting that approximately
fifty percent of the park would remain intact as it presently is. Mr. Dahl
questioned if the backstop could be relocated. Mr. Vraa replied that indeed
this could be done but that this location is probably preferable to any other.
Then followed a discussion regarding other locations for the backstop.
Mr. Porter noted that relocating the backstop next to the house
would probably be more troublesome than its present location. Mr. Dahl agreed
to this comment. The backstop at its present location would be the preferred
location if there had to be a backstop.
It was questioned what the time frame was for the completion of the
park? Steve Sullivan, Landscape Architect and Parks Planner, Ken Vraa stated
that the completion of the first phase would be September of this year.
However, the additional work, phase two, in the spring would be the
installation of additional landscape, planting material, playground equipment,
etc.. Mr. Martin questioned if there could b the use of a mound birm rather
than a backstop. Mr. Sullivan responded %hat this would be ineffective
because the birm would have to be of such a lineal nature and may not provide
the protection to the trail. Several residents again spoke in favor of the
backstop versus the birming because of its location. In response to a
question, Director of Parks and Recreation responded that the backstop size
would indeed be reduced. He noted that the City has reduced the size of
backstop through the years when Carnelian, Rahn and other parks have been
built. Further reduction could be completed here at Lakeside Park. There was
additional discussion and comments by the residents concerning the park and
fter some general discussion on the parks plan, the Commission decided that
he park be designated as an active park, and that scheduled softball and
baseball games would not be allowed. Managers of local softball teams would
be contacted in the spring of each year and told not to use Lakeside Park
facilities. And finally, the backstop could be modified in size if that were
appropriate. Member Sandy Bertz arrived at 8:00 p,m..
Mr. Kubik made a motion, seconded by Sames, to approve the parks
plan as presented. Prior to the vote, Sandy Bertz commented she felt there
was no conflict in interest in her voting on this issue merely because she was
a neighborhood resident. She had contacted both the City Administrator and
the Mayor who felt it would be appropriate for her to vote. Upon the motion,
all Commission members voted in favor. Before closing the issue, Tom Hedges
thanked the neighborhood citizens for their interest and suggested that a
spokesman from both sides of the issue appear at the May 18th City Council
Meeting to speak further on the Parks plan.
BRITTANY 10TH ADDITION/WALDEN HEIGHTS PARK
Director of Parks and Recreation Ken Vraa made a short presentation
of the parks plan for the Brittany 10th Addition development. This item had
been discussed at more length during the last Advisory Commission Meeting.
This item has proceeded to the City Council and has received preliminary plat
approval. In the discussion with City Administrator Hedges, it was agreed
that some discussion regarding the action concerning the parks cash dedication
for the 10th Addition versus the land dedication as requested by the Advisory
Commission would be represented to the City Council.
COMMUNITY ROOM/SHELTER BUILDING/POLICY REVIEW
Ken Vraa made a presentation regarding the policy of utilizing City
buildings for meetings and activities by various community, civic and church
groups. He stated that this issue was discussed at the last meeting of the
Advisory Commission and at that meeting, staff was asked to establish and
refine guidelines of priorities for reservations and useage which might
include church groups. Ken Vraa stated that staff has reviewed the useage of
school buildings for School Districts 196, 191 and 197 noting that these
districts allow schools to be used for church reservations. Some lease
agreements have run from 4 to 5 years and fees vary depending on the size and
type of facility used. Mr. Vic Fry, as development pastor of a new church in
the community, indicated an interest in using City facilities on a short-term
basis. He indicated that his congregation was in the process of building a
new church but would need temporary space until the building was completed.
Parks Commission member Carroll expressed concern about the philosphy of
letting one church utilize a facility without letting other churches or civic
groups use the facilities. He asked if other communities allowed the church
use facilities. Director Vraa indicated that he was not specifically aware of
any communities that do but that Burnsville had allowed church groups to
utilize its facilities. Mr. Vraa further vent on to state that it was the
staff's recommendation that churches be given a Class Four priority following
such functions as the Parks and Recreation Department, civic groups, and the
like. Commission member Sandy Bertz stated that there should be an
understanding that certain buildings should be designated for such useage
while others are for park use only.
There was considerable discussion by the Commission regarding the
length of time that the facilities could be used on a continuing basis.
Director of Parks and Recreation responded stating that it would not be
possible to allow one group to use a facility for extended periods of time
noting that the Parks and Recreation Departments useage might interfere with
any church useage. He used Goat Hill Park as an example stating that the
skating program would interrupt continuous useage of the building by a church
group or any group for that matter.
Member Carolyn Thurston made a motion to recommend that the
guideline suggested by staff be adopted. In addition, contracts for use would
be reviewed on a case by case basis and be allowed for 3 month increments
renewable if conditions permit. All applications for renewal beyond 6 months
must occur 30 days before the end of the contract. Any group's renewal cannot
be made for 30 days before the end of their useage period. Motion seconded by
Bertz with all members voting in favor.
UNISYS PARKS DEDICATION
Director of Parks and Recreation Ken Vraa made a presentation
regarding the request by Unisys that future parks dedication requirements,
associated with any planned construction activities, would be deferred as a
result of its current plans for construction of a trail way associated with
the current consolidation facility.
Commission member Roger Martin stated that because of his employment
position with Unisys, he would have to remove himself from any discussion or
voting on this issue.
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An explanation was offered by the Director on the request for
deferment and the history of past dedication requirements with the Sperry
site. The Director noted that existing softball fields were credited as a
2arks dedication requirement with the semiconductor facility. At the time of
that recommendation, the Commission gave no indication nor alluded to the fact
that future-, dedication requirements would be deferred with future
construction. Director of Parks and Recreation also stated that Unisys
officials stated that they felt they had already provided the City with
several easements for wells and water lines without cost. After some
discussion by Commission members, a motion was made by George Kubik that the
future parks dedication fees should not be waived because of current or past
dedications. This was seconded by Commission member Carroll with all members
voting approval of the recommendation to the City Council. Mr. Martin
abstained.
PARKS DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
Director of Parks and Recreation Ken Vraa updated the Advisory
Commission on the park shelter buildings bid opening. He noted that the
successful bidder was within the target range, estimated by Staff. Director
Vraa then reviewed the Thomas Lake Park plan revisions indicating that the
boat ramp would not be provided with the first phase construction because of
issues relating the Department of Natural Resources. He stated that the
Blackhawk Park LAWCON/LCMR Grant had been submitted, noting that the projected
first phase development cost was $605,000 dollars.
OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS
Director Vraa reported on a number of recreational programs
activities noting that many of these programs had overfilled causing some
problems and disappointment among the public. He noted that the Arbor Day
Program was very successful and received very favorable publicity and comments
by the neighborhood. Chairman Martin stated that he was very happy about how
well things went. Mr. Kubik discussed the possibility of tree planting being
done at a number of locations within the City next year, expanding the Arbor
Day Program.
Director Vraa responded that the second annual Ground Pounders
running series on May 2nd had doubled in size with about 140 participants.
Handouts were given to the Commission entitled "Passport to Good
Health". Vraa said this was an example of a joint participation between Blue
Cross and Blue Shield and the City in the health program. Mr. Vraa continued
to say that a little over 125 people showed up at Trapp Farm Park for a Star
Gazers Program in which only 35-40 had been planned for. Unfortunately, the
evening was a clouded one and the event had to be rescheduled for the fall.
Director Vraa presented a letter received from Mr. David Brown of
Upper Midwest Management Corporation who oversees the operation of Cedarvale
Shopping Center. Mr. Vraa's response was also presented. Member Thurston
commented in support of the idea expressed by Mr. Vraa's letter and the idea
of City businesses providing assistance in similar activities.
The Commission was next given a handout created by the Parks &
Recreation Department regarding the formation of an Eagan theater group. The
Director indicated that an individual has approached the City and is very
interested in trying to see the Department assist with a community theater
group.
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The Director next approached the issue of an audubon program at
Patrick Eagan Park, stating that a local resident was interested in keeping
birds in the park for eventual use in the new proposed megamall in
Bloomington. The Director asked for a response by the Commission regarding
the idea. Several comments were expressed, with some of the members
"expressing the opinion that the idea had some merit and asked the individual
to write a letter to the Advisory Commission with additional information
before any further discussion.
Mr. Vraa reported that the grand opening for Trapp Farm Park would
be on June 7. The potential exists for a private showing of the park on
June 6 for the purpose of inviting local legislators and officials of the
Department of Engery & Economic Development who processed the grant
application and provided funding for the park.
Mr. Vraa reported that residents of the Mallard Park Addition had
made numerous requests about providing a park in their area. He reported that
the number and persistence of callers was beyond the normal and suggested that
a neighborhood meeting might be established ith these residents to explain
the City's position. He explained that an appointment has been made with a
neighborhood representative to discuss the issue further.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business of the Advisory Commission, on a
motion by Alt, seconded by Carroll, with all members voting in favor, the
Regular Advisory Commission Meeting of May 7 was adjourned at 10:45 p.m.
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