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01/05/1989 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA JANUARY 5, 1989 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order at 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 5, 1989 with the following Commission Members present: Dick Carroll, George Kubik, JoAnne Alt, Sandy Masin, Theodore Billy, Michele Swanson and Wayne Sames. Staff present included Director of Parks and Recreation, Ken Vraa; Landscape Architect/Parks Planner, Steve Sullivan; Parks Superintendent, John VonDeLinde and Parks Secretary, Cherryl Mesko. Commission Member Bob Porter and Recreation Supervisor, Dorothy Peterson were not present. AGENDA JoAnne Alt moved, Dick Carroll seconded with all Members voting in favor to accept the agenda as presented. MINUTES FROM DECEMBER 1, 1988 MEETING With the omission of the Water Quality Update from the December 1 minutes, Dick Carroll moved, George Kubik seconded with all Members voting in favor to delay approval of the December 1, 1988 minutes until the February 2, 1989 Commission meeting. PARK RANGER EXPLORERS PRESENTATION John VonDeLinde recognized Chief of Police Pat Geagan and Doug Madison for their contributions toward the successful organization of the Park Ranger Explorers program. This month marks the second anniversary of the Ranger program with 1988 being the first full year to reflect back on. In January, 1987 the police department found it difficult to keep up with all the coverage needed for the parks and found it necessary to expand patrols in this area. The Explorer program was designed to help alleviate some of the hours originally needed by the police department and also to expand upon the idea of helping the youth in the community who wanted to see first hand what a career in law enforcement could be like. In March of 1987 the idea came before the Commission and was approved resulting in coordination between the police and park departments to set up some intense training sessions for the Explorer volunteer wanting to participate. June, 1987 was the beginning of "on-duty" chores for the group of volunteers who have since logged several thousand miles on the ranger cars and have been very successful in providing good-will to the community. The program is open to young people 14-21 years of age who are interested in a career of crime prevention and is an extension of the Boy Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of January 5, 1989 Meeting Page 2 Scout Explorer Program. Mr. VonDeLinde noted that the young people who have participated have provided a strong example for their peers and the City appreciates all the efforts that have been expended in helping the police and park department. Mr. VonDeLinde then noted that as a token of appreciation for all their work, Chairman Dick Carroll would like to present a plaque from the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission as a token of their appreciation for all the work the Ranger Explorers have accomplished. Mr. Carroll presented the plaques to both Mr. Geagan and Mr. Madison noting that he has had the opportunity of visiting several parks over the last several months and has been impressed with both the maturity and level of interpersonal communication shown by these young volunteers. He has also received many compliments from residents surrounding the parks expressing their appreciation for the way the parks are monitored. Pat Geagan thanked the Commission and Parks Department staff for the plaque noting that he didn't envision this program growing to the extent it has. Considering the work is completely voluntary and the uniforms donated by Northwest Airlines and Unisys the growth and dedication of this group of young people has been far above what was expected. Doug Madison, an advisor to the group noted that the Explorers are a young adult division of Boy Scouts that meet twice a month to cover law enforcement issues. Their goal is to let youth know more about a career in law enforcement. They also participate in competitions throughout the United States. In July of 1988 they entered a contest at Boston University with 3300 Explorers and brought home the first place trophy in the country. Mr. Madison introduced the four officers of the group with Gary Rutherford acting as spokesperson. Mr. Rutherford shared some statistics with the Commission regarding the work that has been done over the last year including the fact that they had donated 1,873-1/2 hours to patrolling parks. Mr. Rutherford thanked the Commission for giving them an opportunity to explore this career opportunity. Mr. VonDeLinde and Mr. Carroll presented each of the 18 Explorers present with a lapel pin in appreciation for all their efforts. COVENTRY PASS Director Vraa explained that this project is being brought before the Commission having had some recent changes made in the original plan. Wayne Tower of Pioneer Engineering is now in charge of this project. The Planning Commission has put this item on a 30 day delay pending the determination of the location for a park on the site. Jim Sturm, City Planner was present to outline the background of this parcel and to bring the Commission up to date on the progress with the Planning Commission. He reiterated the Planning Commission's decision to delay review of this parcel because they wanted this plan to appear before Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of January 5,1989 Meeting Page 3 the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission in order to determine the best site for a proposed park. With United Mortgage becoming involved in this project a new site plan was developed and both Steve Sullivan and Jim Sturm met to review this plan with Wayne Tower. The plan is a very informal one and Jim noted that he has only seen the preliminary plan to date. The schedule for this project after appearing before the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission for consensus recommendation of a park site is that it will then appear before the Planning Commission. Once they have reviewed the plan it will come back to the Parks and Recreation Commission before proceeding to the Council. Parks Planner Steve Sullivan described the parcel as being located east of Dodd Road approximately one-half mile north of County Road 30 within Park Service District 24 which currently has no neighborhood park. The Comprehensive Land Use Plan and Parks System Plan has designated a neighborhood park within this parcel. One issue for the Commission to consider includes the acquisition of a park site within Park Service District 24, to be within 1/2 mile of all users within the service area, that adequate acreage be available for a neighborhood park, that the parcel provide topography which is developmentally compatible for a neighborhood park, that the proximity to Dodd Road and the proposed trails provide effective pedestrian and vehicular transportation to the park and that the parkland is adjacent to mature trees and a significant pond. Mr. Sullivan noted that the population at buildout would be approximately 1,340 which lies between the definition of mini-park and neighborhood park. Issue #2 focused on the parkland site alternatives which would meet the criteria needed for a park in this area. There were three alternatives presented for the Commission to review. Parcel A located west of JP-23 consists of 10 acres (6.8 acres of which are developable/usable) with slopes less than 12% and above the pond's high water level. 25% of the users exist to the north and 75% to the south. The facility program meets the Park Systems standards for a typical neighborhood park. This site is close to Dodd Road so the positives and negatives need to be considered in this site. This site does not have a lot of flexibility in grading design. Two park supportive natural sources are the pond and the significant trees along the steep slopes. Parcel B located north of JP-23 consists of 10 acres (6.8 acres of which are developable/usable) with slopes less than 12% and above the pond's high water level. 18% of the user population exists north of the park and 82% to the south. This alternative provides for 1500 lineal feet of frontage along three internal streets. The facility program meets the Park System standards for a typical neighborhood park. The park alternative provides a strong facility layout with orderly transition to complimentary facilities. Two park supportive natural sources are the pond and the significant trees along the steep slopes. A looped trail around the pond is feasible but the steep slopes would result in high development costs. Staff recommends that a trail easement be placed around pond JP-23 to allow for future trailway considerations. Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of January 5, 1989 Meeting Page 4 Parcel C located in the southeast corner of the parcel, adjacent to pond JP-24 consists of 14.3 acres (5.1 acres of which are developable/usable) contains slopes less than 12% and above JP-23's high water level. 53% of the population lies north of the park and 47% to the south. This alternative provides 500 feet of street frontage along an internal residential road. The facility program falls short of a neighborhood park but exceeds the standards for a typical mini-park. Mr. Sullivan noted that the original plan shows no soccer field on this site, however, Wayne Tower shows a 200 x 300 soccer field on this parcel as being possible. In this alternative, the pond becomes visually and functionally connected to the adjacent facilities. The pond becomes a hub to an easily assessable loop trail system and mature oaks and the south facing slope enhances the trail and picnic area experience. Mr. Sullivan explained that Issue #3 concerns the parkland dedication need. Based on a total land dedication, park alternatives A and B would be responsible for 9.76 acres of parkland dedication and park alternative C would be responsible for 12.2 acres. Since both alternatives A and B have approximately 6.8 acres above the high water elevation and with slopes less than 12%, the developer would be responsible for contributing a cash dedication balance of $29,140.23, providing no credit is given for the pond/steep slopes. Alternative C has approximately 5.1 acres above the high water elevation with slopes less than 12%, thus the developer would be responsible for a cash dedication contribution of $58,932.91 providing no credit is given for the pond/steep slopes. Steve stated that the Commission did not have to take action on the current proposal at this meeting because a revised proposal will be brought before the Commission at the February meeting. The Commission should consider (1) the parkland needs within Neighborhood Park Service Area #24 (2) the preferred park alternative and (3) park dedication conditions. Since the Commission Members had not had an opportunity to walk this site and look at the various park site alternatives, Mr. Sullivan shared a video presentation of the sites in question for the Commission to review and respond to. Wayne Tower of Pioneer Engineering was introduced to the Commission to make a brief presentation of the proposed plat which was shown on page 57A of the packet. Mr. Tower explained that the developer is proposing the acceptance of Alternate C as this has the least amount of impact on development costs, is centrally located, and the new design being presented would show all the components for a neighborhood park as required. Mr. Tower noted that this plan shows a total acreage of 15-1/2 acres rather than the original acreage of 14.3 acres. Also, the road moves further west of the boot of the lake allowing for a full soccer overlay. Wayne Sames asked where the picnic area would be located. Mr. Tower responded that it would be close to the play area near the boot of the lake and perhaps also across the lake. Ted Billy asked if there would be a Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of January 5, 1989 Meeting Page 5 walking trail around the pond to which both Mr. Tower and Steve Sullivan responded affirmatively. George Kubik asked about the debris that was left on the site of Alternative C. Mr. Sullivan responded that this appeared to be a drop-off for some people's farm equipment, appliances, etc. Mr. Tower noted that the developer would take care of the clean up of this area. George Kubik noted his concern about the cut and fill amounts and costs to develop this park site. Perhaps the costs could be mitigated by asking the developer to do the rough grading. Mr. Sullivan stated that if the balance is low the City has had developers do the grading for balance in the past and this is something that can be looked at. The grading analysis has not been done as yet so it is difficult to say how this issue will be resolved. Mr. Kubik reiterated that his primary concern would be for the grading before making a recommendation on any site. His second concern was the potential of rehabilitation of the pond; we need to be careful to insure that this becomes a resource rather than a detriment. Sandy Masin expressed her concern for the stability of the water in the pond to which Steve Sullivan responded that a watershed study can be done if the Commission desires. • Mr. Tower responded to the grading issue by stating that once the City provides them with a typical number for park grading, the developer would be willing to pay for whatever the overage would be or perhaps put together a package to do the total grading. The developer does not want formal approval at this time but is only seeking input from the Commission. Mr. Tower's question was if the grading and water issue can be resolved to everyone's satisfaction is this a workable plan and location. Sandy Masin and JoAnne Alt both indicated they were comfortable with Alternative C. Dick Carroll stated that although being comfortable with Alternative C at this point more information needs to be provided. Mr. Leonard Perron, a neighboring resident asked Steve Sullivan if the dump area or debris area was on the east side of the park. Mr. Sullivan stated that the items he found would not negatively impact the site because they could be removed leaving an open park area. After further clarification of the location of some of the items that had been dumped in this location, Mr. Perron explained that there are many buried items on the site that is designated as a proposed park site. He further stated that this was a dump site for many different companies and individuals. The police department had ordered that this area be covered over to discourage further dumping. Mr. Carroll responded that this needs to be checked immediately since the possibility exists of toxic waste being buried. Mr. Tower asked how extensive the dump area was and Mr. Perron wasn't sure; again, he suggested that the police department be contacted to find out when the area was covered over. Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of January 5, 1989 Meeting Page 6 After further discussion, Mr. Carroll noted that the location was fine as long as the grading, pond and dump area issues are resolved. Mr. Tower noted that the only issue the developer is looking for is a consensus decision from the Commission that Alternative C is workable. The consensus was given by the Commission. TOWN CENTRE 100 7TH - FEDERAL LAND City Planner Jim Sturm explained that this proposal has been continued by the Planning Commission and has been rescheduled for the January 24th meeting. Mr. Sturm noted that the issue of trails is outlined in detail in the report by Steve Sullivan and that there are no problems anticipated. Dick Carroll noted that the trail on the south side of the proposed building seems steep and asked if it could be closer to the park. Mr. Sturm responded that the trail should be field staked and Steve Sullivan would review it once that has been completed and can make a determination at that point. Mr. Carroll also noted that moving the sidewalk to the west side on the eastern property line makes sense. Mr. Vraa suggested waiting until this proposal goes before the Planning Commission and respond to it when it comes back before the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission in February. George Kubik stated that the storm sewer run-off issue was one of the most important and Mr. Sturm responded that this is an issue that will be reviewed by the DNR. WATER QUALITY UPDATE John VonDeLinde brought the Commission up to date on the water quality meeting on December 12, 1988. The formulated rankings that the Commission recommended at their December meeting were accepted for recommendation by the Task Force. A decision was made to have samplings done internally to save money. The possibility exists for using the already designated Park Representatives for the sampling process which could be a very positive experience as well as saving approximately $16,000. The purpose of the sampling is to create some baseline data from which to evaluate the current conditions of these waterbodies in relation to the prescribed management objectives. Mr. VonDeLinde noted that a new Level 3 designation for ponds and lakes within parks had been approved. "Wildlife ponds", formerly Level 3, will now be shifted to Level 4. Some of the other Commission recommendations adopted by the Task Force include upgrading Schwanz Lake from a Level 2 to a Level 1, "Direct Contact". Burrview Pond was downgraded from Level 1 to Level 2 and 15 former Class 6 "Stormwater Detention" ponds were upgraded to the new Class 3 "Scenic Recreation Wetlands". Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of January 5, 1989 Meeting Page 7 The planning process as included in the packet indicates that there will be an opportunity in March for input from the Commission if it is appropriate. There will be a meeting again on January 9th at 4:30 P.M. Wayne Sames also reminded the Commission of the Joint Council/Commission meeting that will take place on February 16th at 7:00 P.M. George Kubik asked if there will be a finer resolution map available like the one shown in section 2.8 once the project is completed or will there be any aerial photography used since that scale of photography would be beneficial to the Department in other areas. Mr. Von0eLinde wasn't sure if aerial photography was going to be used. Wayne Sames stated that the amount of progress made in the last two months was outstanding. The involvement of the Commission, and specifically John VonDelinde, has gotten this project off dead center and it is now moving in the right direction. PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT FOR COMMUNITY CENTER Director Vraa presented the issue of a philosophy statement for the Community Center. The Commission had previously requested that this be drafted for Commission review. After positive comments regarding the statement as it was presented, Dick Carroll moved, Ted Billy seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the Community Center Philosophy Statement as written. EVERGREEN PARK Director Vraa explained that a structure will be put over the well being built at Evergreen Park that will create an attractive facility which will tie into existing park buildings. This particular building will be modeled after the Rahn Park building. The only difference will be the area in the Rahn Building where the restrooms exist will be used for equipment in the Evergreen Park building. This building will be block construction with rough sawn cedar for the exterior and a skylight. There will be a meeting with the residents to let them know about the well house location. The roadway currently cuts across the softball field and there is some thought to moving the backstop so that this doesn't become a problem. Dick Carroll asked if engineering would bear the responsibility for paying for the road and shelter and Mr. Vraa responded that it was indeed their cost responsibility. George Kubik commented that this was an example of good coordination between Engineering and Parks and Recreation. He also asked if Engineering would be putting in any trees. Ted Billy asked if there would be an area flooded for ice skating and Ken Vraa noted that that will be considered. Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of January 5, 1989 Meeting Page 8 PARKS DEVELOPMENT Steve Sullivan explained that the processing for the final payment of Contract 87-1 is occurring at this time and Thomas Lake Pavilion is nearing completion. The contractor will be requesting payment for substantial completion, the first walk-through has been completed and the punch list will be completed shortly. COMMUNITY CENTER UPDATE Director Vraa noted that everything is progressing very well with the community center. A slide show of the building renderings has been prepared showing the front elevation, site plan, level one, lower level and an artist's conception of the pool. The large renderings are being displayed at the library and will then move back to City. Hall. Smaller copies of the drawings are bound in 3-ring notebooks for distribution to audiences during presentations. Rick Bertz and Tim Pawlenty are heading up the "Vote Yes" committee. They had a good turnout at their first organizational meeting on January 4th. The City will be sending out an informational newsletter with a target delivery of January 13th which will have floorplans, costs and background information. Public informational meetings will be held on January 25, 26 and 28th at the Eagan Municipal Center and Commission members are encouraged to attend. The architects are still doing some detail work so that they can be prepared for the possible passage of the bond referendum in order to have architectural contracts ready to be signed in anticipation of moving on to Phase II. Sandy Masin asked if there have been many inquiries from the public to date. Ken Vraa responded that he had heard from a gentleman regarding the fitness area who suggested that the City contact a coach in Apple Valley who has been involved in the planning and design of several fitness areas across the country who might lend his expertise. Ken also mentioned that it is very important that the plan get out to the public as soon as possible so that they will be able to review and respond to the proposal. Ted Billy asked if there had been any negatives and Mr. Vraa responded that he had not received any, as yet, but had received a lot of very good questions from residents. It was also mentioned that the cable coverage would continue on Mondays at 7:00 P.M. and Wednesdays at 8:30 P.M. The third show will cover some of the residents questions and there will be people available to answer those questions. It was also noted that absentee ballots are available. Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of January 5, 1989 Meeting Page 9 OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS Ken Vraa reported that the Pilot Knob Park lights are up and that there has been a problem with glare for some of the neighboring residents which has been corrected. Six glare shields have been installed at Goat Hill Park and there have been favorable comments from the residents surrounding the park. It appears as though this is a successful possibility for handling the glare at athletic sites and may become a standard fixture on future sites. Interviews for a Recreation Supervisor are set for January 13th and interviews will begin shortly thereafter for the Park Operations Supervisor. John VonDeLinde was recently advised that he was the recipient of a grant for continuing education. Dick Carroll congratulated John on behalf of the Commission and noted it was a much deserved opportunity. Wayne Sames asked what the attendance has been at the new rink at Well Site. Mr. Vraa noted that the registration for the speed skating program has increased to 19 this year and had just begun on Tuesday. Typically attendance is low at a new site but steadily continues to grow, which is what is anticipated at Well Site. George Kubik reminded the Commission Members of the Winter Weekend coming up in February and suggested they volunteer for some of the activities that are planned. He will be helping with the ice drilling and indicated it is a good time for all those that attend. Mr. Kubik, for the record, wanted to thank and commend John VonDeLinde for all his work and involvement in the Park Ranger Explorer program. With no further business to conduct, Sandy Masin moved, George Kubik seconded with all Members voting in favor to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 P.M. SECRETARY DATE