11/02/1989 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF
THE ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
NOVEMBER 2, 1989
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission was called
to order at 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, November 2, 1989 with the following Commission
Members present: Ted Billy, George Kubik, Dick Carroll, Shawn Hunter, Michele Swanson
and Sandy Masin. Staff present included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation;
Steve Sullivan, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner; Dorothy Peterson, Recreation
Supervisor II; Jim Sturm, City Planner; Shannon Willey, Zoning Administrator/City Planner
I and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary. Commission Member Jack Johnson and Parks
Superintendent John VonDeLinde were not present.
AGENDA
Ken Vraa asked that two items be added under Other Business and Reports. Item
#4 is a request for facilities at Kettle Park and Item #5 is an update on architect
interviews. Dick Carroll moved, Shawn Hunter seconded with all members voting in favor
to accept the agenda as amended.
MINUTES FROM SPECIAL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 30, 1989
Page 3, Sentence 3 should read "George agreed, and felt it was wise to set the
parameters...". Page 3, second to last paragraph, first sentence should read "....September
Commission meeting, were Shawn Hunter moved, Dick Carroll seconded with all
members voting in favor to accept the minutes of the special meeting as amended.
MINUTES FROM OCTOBER 5, 1989
Page 4, Paragraph 3, Sentence 2 should read, "Jack Johnson offered an amendment
to recommend the creation of a passive play area with the particulars to be worked out
with staff. Michele Swanson seconded the motion and amendment with all members
voting in favor."
CONSENT AGENDA
Dick Carroll moved, Ted Billy seconded with all members voting in favor to
recommend to the City Council approval of the following:
1. REZONING - BURNSVILLE LUMBER CO., INC. That this parcel be
subject to a cash parkland dedication. That this parcel may be subject to
a cash trailway dedication dependent on the enacted policy at the time of
City Council approval of the final plat.
ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 2,1989 MEETING
PAGE 2
COVENTRY PASS 2ND ADDITION
Jim Sturm explained that Coventry Pass 2nd Addition is for 39 single family homes
on the east side of Dodd Road. During the rough grading of this parcel there was a
discrepancy in the grade to serve the future needs of the adjacent parent property. After
several meetings the decision was made to change the location of the road within the plat.
Due to the change in the plat the issue is being brought back before the Advisory Parks
and Recreation Commission. Mr. Sturm explained that the lot layout is the same except
for the change in the road.
Steve Sullivan reminded the Commission that they had reviewed this issue in
January of 1989. At that time they reviewed three alternatives and chose a park site in
the southeast corner of the site. The parkland acquisition equates to 141.45 lots and the
remaining lots would be subject to a cash dedication. Coventry Pass platted 59 lots and
the proposed 2nd Addition has an additional 39 lots. These 98 lots have fulfilled the
parks dedication through the parkland dedication and the subdivision would begin
providing a cash dedication with the platting of the 142nd lot. Mr. Sullivan further stated
that there is no Commission action required at this time. The Commission
recommendation made previously is still effective even with the change in the road
location.
Dick Carroll noted that the construction of an 8 foot bituminous trail from Country
View Drive to Prairie Ridge Road within Outlot B, which was part of the original
recommendation, should be graded so that the trail will be able to be used effectively.
Jim Sturm commented that all grading requirements would be met to fulfill the
requirements set forth by the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission.
SHADE TREF,/LANDSCAPING ORDINANCE
Ken Vraa explained that the existing ordinance covers diseased trees, maintenance
of private property and weed control. In the packet is a list of proposed changes to the
ordinance and Ken suggested going through each of the changes so there is an
understanding of what is being proposed. This project has been a joint effort between
Parks, Public Works and Planning to determine the most beneficial program for the City
of Eagan.
Additions to the policy include Tree Contractor licensing which applies to all tree
service contractors performing work in the City, including services contracted by
governmental units. Uniform planting standards creates uniform standards and guidelines
for the placement of trees within public right-of-ways and enforcement for non-compliance.
Master street tree planting plan and tree maintenance standards will established uniform
standards for the pruning, spraying and maintenance of trees within public right-of-ways.
This requires the public to comply with standards.
ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 2, 1989 MEETING
PAGE 3
Other new additions include Shade Tree Disease Control and Prevention by defining
standing dead trees as a public nuisance. Also included are "Forester" and duties of
Forester which defines qualifications of forester; grants powers and duties; requires
pesticide applicators certification. Notification of property owners authorizes forester to
notify owners of property to abate nuisances; defines expiration period for non-compliance.
Maintenance of private property adds language related to the treatment or removal of
insect infested and diseased trees on private property.
Mr. Vraa explained that the master street planting plan would involve collector
streets primarily and would define planting schemes and species that would be placed, i.e.
Wescott would become the responsibility of Forestry Department to maintain within the
right-of-way. If individuals wanted to plant within the right-of-way they would need to be
within the limitations of the master plan.
Shawn Hunter asked where the ordinance section regarding trees being planted
within a right-of way at least 10 feet from the back of curb came from. Dick Carroll
noted that the 10 foot right of way designation is normal for most streets. Dick Carroll
suggested that going with one variety in the master plan on a given street may not be a
good idea; rather a variety of types, colors, heights, etc. should be considered so that the
potential of a disease destroying one species will not affect all the plantings. Dick also
felt the master plan should reflect that trees should be 30 feet apart rather than 20 to
allow them the proper growing space.
Ken Vraa stated that it will be nice to have an ordinance to cover these issues but
there is a greater need to get this information to the public. An informational brochure
should be made available for distribution which includes prohibited species.
George Kubik commented that he appreciated the condensed version of the
ordinance outlining all the changes and additions. Ken Vraa stated that there was no
need for action on this item tonight but comments from the Commission are important.
Dick Carroll congratulated all those that have been working on these ordinance
revisions and sees this project moving in the right direction. George Kubik suggested that
perhaps information from other communities would be helpful regarding the right of way
distance. Ken Vraa noted that they have discovered, after checking with other
communities that the standards for planting within right-of-ways are anywhere from 5 feet
to 10 feet.
ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 2, 1989 MEETING
PAGE 4
1990 PARK DEDICATION FEES
Mr. Vraa explained that the Commission was being provided with past dedication
fees, current dedication fees and input from other Twin Cities suburbs regarding their
park dedication fees. He further noted that the park dedication fees have been based on
average land values. There continues to be a strong single family market which has
increased the demand/price for property in the last 12 to 14 months whereas multiple
family use has dropped in use and demand. Currently, most single family property is
being sold in the $20,000 per acre range. Also enclosed in the report is staffs suggestion
of the range for 1990 fees.
Mr. Vraa continued by stating that the trails dedication issue has yet to be resolved.
Currently developers are required to construct trails at the time of their development. It
has been requested that the trails dedication fee be separated from the parks dedication
fee. Developers, while not opposed to a trails dedication fee, have looked at this issue
as an impact fee. With the adoption of a separate trails dedication fee they see that
undeveloped property may be paying for already developed property. With many questions
still remaining the trails dedication issue is yet to be resolved.
Relative to commercial/industrial property, Mr. Vraa explained that historically this
fee has increased incrementally each year. Enclosed in the report was a breakdown of
other communities and their park fee structure for the Commission to review and
compare. Ken asked the Commission to consider the fees being proposed and make their
recommendation to the City Council.
Dick Carroll noted that the Water Quality Committee is thinking about using a rate
structure similar to the park dedication fees and careful consideration should be given to
setting up the rates so that they will be consistent and appropriate. George Kubik noted
that he felt the dedication fees proposed by staff seemed equitable.
After further discussion, Ted Billy moved, Dick Carroll seconded with all members
voting in favor to recommend the following park dedication fees for 1990 to the City
Council:
Housing Type Average Market Value Cash Eg. Per Res. Unit
Single Family $15,000 - $:16,000 per acre $685/Unit
Duplex $17,000 - $:18,000 per acre $600/Unit
Townhouse/Quad $20,000 - $22,000 per acre $535/Unit
Apts/Multiple $22,000 - $26,000 per acre $540/Unit
Dick Carroll moved, George Kubik seconded with all members voting in favor to
table the commercial/industrial park dedication fees until the December 7, 1989 meeting.
ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 2, 1989 MEETING
PAGE 5
TRAPP FARM PARK
Ken Vraa provided the Commission with an overview of Trapp Farm Park noting
that this park was dedicated to the city without the benefit of a plat; completed by legal
description. With the actual platting of Lexington Pointe's Additions and the subsequent
staking, it became evident that the trees thought to be on park property were in fact well
within the plat and not on park property. Because of this discovery many of the trees
thought to be a part of Trapp Farm Park may now be lost due to proposed home
construction.
Steve Sullivan continued with a video presentation showing the actual lot lines in
relation to the park. The video showed that by losing the lots it would infringe upon the
sliding hill that has been used at this site. Lots 9, 10 and 11, Block 3, Lexington Pointe
Fifth seems to have the most impact on the park. The mow lines in the video went to
the north line of Lot 11 and the southwest line of Lot 9 so the Commission could see how
the elimination of this land would impact the park.
Ted Billy asked about the cost of the lots and Mr. Vraa responded that the
information hadn't been provided to him as yet. George Kubik asked what the time line
was for construction on these lots. Mr. Vraa stated they are anticipating beginning
construction this winter; the base road construction is done and utility work would be the
next phase. Mr. Kubik asked if there would be an option to purchase the lots from the
developer. Mr. Vraa responded that staff suggests that some of the lots be acquired but
would need the Commission to review the issue and recommend to the City Council what
their requests would be. He also noted that the approximate cost of the lots is expected
to be in the "mid 20's".
Dick Carroll asked if the boundaries would be rechecked to which Mr. Vraa
responded affirmatively. Mr. Vraa also noted that he had asked Brad Swenson not to
market these lots until this issue could be discussed and resolved. Sandy Masin asked how
quickly the boundary check could be done and Ken responded that it was to have been
completed last week but no results were available for this meeting. George Kubik stated
that he would hate to see this park short changed considering all the monies that have
been spent to develop it to the degree it is and felt it was necessary to pursue the
purchase of lots to insure the integrity of Trapp Farm Park. Mr. Vraa stated that the lots
could be purchased using the Park Site Fund but that would close some other options for
future park development at this time. Ted Billy expressed his concern for the dollars that
would be spent but stated that once there are homes on the hill any option for preserving
that as parkland is gone.
ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 2, 1989 MEETING
PAGE 6
After further discussion, George Kubik moved, Shawn Hunter seconded with all
members voting in favor to give authority to staff to negotiate, if necessary, the acquisition
of 6 lots (Lots 9, 10, 11, 12, Block 3, Lexington Pointe Fifth Addition and Lots 9 and 10,
Block 2, Lexington Pointe Fourth Addition) to preserve the integrity of Trapp Farm Park.
1989-90 WINTER SKATING REPORT
Dorothy Peterson explained that she and Ken Vraa had met with the Eagan
Hockey Association to discuss the 1989-90 skating season before it gets underway. At the
meeting maintenance, creating base ice, rink classification and scheduling were some of
the items discussed. It appears that there will be 21 teams looking for ice time through
the hockey association. The proposal that was presented shows 47 hours for ice time with
Tuesdays and Thursdays being the most preferred use. There will be 3 hours provided
on Saturdays for the little ones since the older participants will be using indoor ice time
then. EHA has agreed to return ice time they do not use after scheduling their individual
teams from the master schedule provided by the City of Eagan.
The breakdown of ice time shows City lessons as well as broomball leagues at
Quarry Park. Carnelian is not being used for hockey practice because there is only one
rink which may preclude use by pleasure skaters. Woodhaven will be used as an extra
site if necessary for extra practice or if adult broomball leagues need to expand.
George Kubik asked how things look for future years. Dorothy responded that the
sudden growth in the hockey program was last year and they do not anticipate a large
growth next year. Woodhaven has seen a loss of growth probably due to the increase in
Sky Hill use. George also asked how the warming house was progressing at Well Site
Park. Ken Vraa explained that it is up and ready to be shingled and should be completed
by the middle of next week.
PARKS DEVELOPMENT
Steve Sullivan explained that Contract 89-12 for Northview Tennis courts is nearing
completion. The punch list is being completed with only a few minor items remaining.
Contract 89-19, parking lot and pedestrian lighting at Ohmann and Thomas Lake Parks
will be completed yet this year. Contract 89-20, Bridle Ridge hockey rink lighting will
begin on Monday. Contract 89-23, miscellaneous trails and Thomas Lake trail will see
clearing and grubbing beginning this fall with completion in the spring. Contract 89-17,
Northview parking lot, will see the contractor starting this week with the bituminous being
installed next spring.
ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 2, 1989
PAGE 7
HAPPENINGS
George Kubik asked for a description and update of the Community Education
#196 Youth Connection Council. Dorothy Peterson explained that this is a program for
youth development in all school districts. The monies available for this project are to be
spent to create a directory to inform folks of services available to youth. School District
196 is the only one of the Youth Connection Council with youth as a part of the group.
All other groups are adults only. The youth in this group have become very involved in
this project. The middle school youth feel the need for transportation, i.e. pep buses for
away games, to movies, shopping, etc. The adults on the council want to provide some
action to the requests so the young people don't get discouraged and think nothing is
being done. It has been a very interesting and cooperative effort so far.
Dorothy commented that over 300 participants visited the spook trail this year with
many volunteers on hand to help.
George Kubik asked about the progress of the Lillian McCarthy meeting. Ken
Vraa responded that there are no conclusions to date but they are still working on the
middle ground with some counter offers. We should hear something more in 2-3 weeks.
WILLIVIUS PROPERTY
Ken Vraa showed the Commission a visual of the property acquired and a possible
park layout of the property. He noted that School District #196 is looking at the 10 acre
parcel next to this park and they wanted to know if the City is interested in a joint
venture similar to the Woodland School site, if the land is acquired by the School District.
It appears that the City Council and School District 196 are very comfortable with the
idea. Ken wanted to make the Commission aware of this possible joint involvement and
will keep them posted on this item.
WESCOTT STATION PARK - POND IMPACT ANALYSIS
Steve Sullivan explained that a re-evaluation was done recently on Ponds JP16/17/18
as they impact Wescott Station Park.
Pond JP-16 within the northwest portion of Wescott Station Park is half on park
property and half on property owned by West Publishing. The potential development for
West Publishing would result in a great deal of water run-off. Although West Publishing
is anxious to continue with development all people involved were anxious to address the
water run-off, water quality issue before proceeding. Pond JP-17 is a secondary pond and
Pond JP18 is a dry area.
ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 2, 1989 MEETING
PAGE 8
After much review and analysis it is suggested that Pond JP-16 normal water
elevation should be set at 875.0 with a high water level not to exceed the 879.1 proposed
elevation. This normal water elevation would provide minimal wet volume. If wet volume
is desired for nutrient trapping and sedimentation the pond could be deepened without
significantly influencing the park function or wildlife.
Pond JP-17 normal water elevation should be set at approximately 858.0 with the
high water elevation not to exceed the 863.0 elevation due to the quality and quantity of
significant trees that would be affected. This normal water elevation would provide
minimal wet volume. The high number of trees and shrubs located below the 858.0
normal water level should be removed with the storm sewer improvement.
The high water elevation for Pond JP-18 could be increased to 862.0 but should not
exceed an 867.0 elevation. This will provide additional water into the basin enhancing the
wetland character and wildlife habitat. The engineer should evaluate the connection of
the two (2) separate ponding areas as well. Modifying the basin to increase wet volume
for nutrient trapping and sedimentation should not be considered. The deepening of the
pond would negatively influence the parkland character.
George Kubik commented that it is helpful and reasonable to look at the long
range plans for this development. Ken Vraa commented that this is an item that almost
slipped through the cracks and Steve Sullivan has spent a great deal of time analyzing the
situation so that a solution could be reached. This information is provided to keep the
Commission abreast of the activities impacting Wescott Station Park.
KETTLE; PARK REQUEST
Steve Sullivan explained that he had talked to neighbors who shared an interest in
placing a sand volleyball court and open skating area within Kettle Park. Steve felt it was
important to bring these types of requests to the attention of the Commission.
Sandy Masin questioned the cost of providing a volleyball court and George Kubik
expressed concern for the room needed to install this type of facility at this site. Steve
explained that the very south triangular corner of the park could possibly support a court
but more information would need to be compiled before building at this location. Steve
also mentioned that while it may be possible to construct a court at this location the
Commission should consider whether this is a facility that should be placed in a community
park rather than a neighborhood park. Another consideration would be whether this court
would be used for the purpose it is intended.
ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 2, 1989 MEETING
PAGE 9
Ken Vraa explained that this site has too much run-off to do a skating rink and
would require regrading and re-design to make it work. Dick Carroll also noted that the
pond was not a good option for skating because it is used for MnDot run-off.
After further discussion staff was instructed to do a mini study to determine the
options and costs for additional facilities at this park.
ARCHITECT INTERVIEWS
Ken Vraa informed the Commission that interviews for prospective architects for
park shelter buildings will be held on Monday, November 6. Ken Vraa, Tom Hedges,
Dorothy Peterson and Steve Sullivan will all participate in the interview process and Ken
invited any interested Commission members to attend. George Kubik commented that any
member interested in participating would find this a very informative and educational
process.
OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS
George Kubik stated that the Natural Resources Mission Statement should be
worked on over the next few weeks and asked if any information had been received from
other communities. Ken Vraa responded that John VonDeLinde would be able to
respond to that issue, however he was not available this evening.
George asked if the Commission would be reviewing park planning for 1990 and
Mr. Vraa explained that staff would be establishing a list of priorities for 1990 along with
a progress report on what has been completed in 1989 and what will be carried over into
1990.
Dick Carroll commented that the next Water Quality meeting will be November 16
for final review before going to developers on November 29 and then on to the City
Council. Copies should be received this month for review before the December meeting.
With no further business to conduct, Sandy Masin moved, Ted Billy seconded with
all members voting in favor to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 9:50 P.M.
SECRETARY DATE