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02/06/1992 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA FEBRUARY 6,1992 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 1992 with the following Commission Members present: Erin Ipsen, Jack Johnson, Jonathan Widem, Ted Billy, Deborah Johnson, Dan Mooradian, Lee Markel) and Kevin Knight. Staff present included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Stephen Sullivan, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner; Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; John VonDeLinde, Parks Superintendent; Rich Brasch, Water Resources Coordinator; Paula Nowariak, Recreation Supervisor; Jon Oyanagi, Recreation Supervisor and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary. INTRODUCTION OF NEW MEMBERS Director Vraa introduced David Mooradian, Jonathan Widem, Erin Ipsen and Kevin Knight (alternate) as the newly appointed Commission Members and welcomed them to the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission. APPRECIATION AWARD - GEORGE KUBIK Director Vraa Introduced George Kubik who has been a member of the Commission for 9 years, serving 4 of those years as Chairman. His term expired after serving three consecutive three-year terms which is the time limit for individuals to serve on an advisory commission. Ken noted that during George's tenure he played an instrumental part in developing the Park System Plan, helped with the successful park bond of 1984 which has resulted in the development of many of Eagan's parks and has been a consistent leader in providing for quality parks within the City of Eagan. After presenting George with a recognition plaque and gift from the Parks and Recreation Department, Ken noted that George would be greatly missed. George Kubik thanked the Commission and staff for their recognition and kind words. He continued that although he will miss being a part of the Commission, they will have the opportunity to work with a very skilled and qualified staff which will make the Commission's work easier. George suggested that Commission Members use staff's talents wisely, wished them good luck, and asked them to have fun and experiment. Jack Johnson thanked George, on behalf of the Commission, for his guidance, help and teaching of new Commission Members. He also stated that George's guidance will be greatly missed. AGENDA Ted Billy moved, Erin Ipsen seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the agenda as presented. MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF JANUARY 9, 1992 Page 3, Paragraph 5, Sentence 2 should read, "...off-road trail would provide more safety.... Deborah Johnson moved, Lee Markel) seconded with all members voting In favor to accept the minutes as amended. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 MEETING PAGE 2 COMMISSION ORGANIZATION After describing the responsibilities for each office and explaining the voting procedure which included initialing ballots, Director Vraa opened nominations for the Chairperson. Deborah Johnson nominated and Dan Mooradian seconded the nomination of Ted Billy. Ted Billy nominated and Lee Markell seconded the nomination of Jack Johnson. Erin Ipsen moved, Lee Markell seconded the motion to dose the nominations. Written ballots were submitted and counted naming Jack Johnson as Chairperson. Director Vraa opened nominations for Vice-Chair. Dan Mooradian nominated and Lee Markell seconded the nomination of Ted Billy. Ted Billy nominated and Jack Johnson seconded the nomination of Lee Marken. Erin Ipsen moved, Ted Billy seconded the motion to dose the nominations. Written ballots were submitted and counted naming Ted Billy as Vice-Chair. Director Vraa opened nomination for Secretary. Jack Johnson nominated and Jonathan Widem seconded the nomination of Lee Markell. Ted Billy moved, Jack Johnson seconded the motion to close the nominations and cast a unanimous vote for Lee Markell. The motion was carried and Lee Markell was named Secretary. Director Vraa then turned the meeting over to Chairman Jack Johnson for the appointment of members to the various standing sub-committees. Mr. Vraa noted that those sub-committees were Recreation, Development/Finance and Park Naming. After further discussion, Ted Billy moved that all Commission Members be appointed to all three sub-committees and should the need arise, Ad-Hoc committees would be formed. Lee Markell seconded the motion with all members voting In favor. Lee Markell moved, Dan Mooradian seconded the motion with all members voting In favor to set the regular Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission meetings for the following dates: March 5, April 2, May 7, June 4, July 2, August 6, September 3, October 1, November 5, December 3, 1992 and January 7, 1993. The motion continued that the meetings will be held at 7 P.M. except in the summer months when the times may change to accommodate park tours prior to Commission meetings. CONSENT AGENDA Deborah Johnson moved, Ted Billy seconded the motion with all members voting In favor to make the following recommendation to the City Council: 1. TOWN CENTRE 100 10TH ADDITION - ROVICK REALTY. This proposal shall be required to construct a 6 foot wide concrete sidewalk along Town Centre Drive. This proposal shall be subject to a cash dedication of $14,691 to satisfy water quality requirements. WESTON HILLS ADDITION - LYMAN DEVELOPMENT Project Planner Mike Ridley introduced this item as a request for rezoning of 63.64 acres from Agricultural to R-1 (Single Family) and a Preliminary Plat of 131 lots and six outlots. He continued that this proposed plat is located south of County Road 32 (Cliff Road) and east of Trunk Highway 3. Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Steve Sullivan reminded the Commission that they had previously reviewed this proposal at their January 9th meeting and passed a motion to recommend the acquisition of a park south of this development within Park Service 36E. The Commission also indicated a preference for a cash dedication in lieu of parkland dedication for the proposed Weston Hills development. Steve continued that the Weston Hills plat consumes approximately one-third of Park Service Area 36E and that there appears to be a need for a park south of this development. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 MEETING PAGE 3 Water Resources Coordinator Rich Brasch addressed the water quality issues relative to this proposal. The first is what requirement the developer must meet to satisfy water quality treatment standards for a new development as outlined in the city water quality management plan. The second is a concern expressed by residents who live adjacent to the proposed development regarding the effect of the development on the volume of runoff to Pond LP-27. Rich noted that some of the residents south of this area were present and may want to address the Commission. Mr. Brasch continued that maximum protection of recreational class lakes off-site will require construction of an on-site pond to treat runoff from the development, especially runoff from paved surfaces. After having met with the developers it appears that this is a viable option and the developer is, In fact, exceeding the size of the pond requested. The issue of overland drainage to Pond LP-27 which lies along the southern border of the development site continues to be an issue particularly to the residents adjacent to the pond stated Brasch. The historical behavior of the pond described by residents indicates that the pond Is very dependent on overland runoff from its current natural drainage area of about 37 acres to maintain storage. Accounts also Indicate that even in the present condition, the pond level falls rapidly in response to seasonal drought conditions. With the current site plan the drainage area of LP-27 would be decreased to about 18.5 acres and would decrease by about 33% the average annual runoff to the pond. Mr. Brasch outlined three options that might be considered to help remedy this situation. The first option would be to divert runoff from a portion of the development directly into the pond to restore the runoff contribution. The main disadvantage of this option would be that the stormwater would be untreated going into LP-27 and subsequent downstream higher priority lakes. The advantage of this option would be that the pre-development volume of runoff to LP-27 could be restored. Option 2 would be to divert treated water from the constructed on-site pond and route that water to the south into LP-27 instead of to the north toward Cliff Road. Advantages to this option include diverting only treated water to LP-27 and the drainage basin would exceed what it is in the natural condition. With this scenario, an inlet and outlet would need to be constructed in LP-27 to prevent local flooding problems. The cost for constructing the inlet would be the developer's responsibility while construction of an outlet to route high flows under Hwy 3 to LP-26 would be the City's responsibility. In addition, a pond easement would need to be granted to the City for all of LP-27 by all shoreland owners. Option 3 makes no change in the proposed site plan to route all drainage from the paved surfaces away from LP-27 to the north toward Cliff Road. This option would satisfy basic water quality treatment requirements for the development but would not sustain historical pond elevations In LP-27. Water levels in LP-27 would likely drop until runoff from prospective future developments is routed to the pond. Mike Frattalone, 4784 South Robert Trail addressed the Commission noting that he lives adjacent to Pond LP-27. He expressed his concern for the pond drying up If the overland drainage Is directed to the north. Another concern was for the possible assessment homeowners would be responsible for with the Installation of an outlet. He expressed his unwillingness to pay for such an assessment stating that he felt it should be the developer's complete responsibility to provide both the inlet and outlet. He did, however indicate that he liked the idea of having treated water going into LP-27. Deborah Johnson asked why the City would be responsible for paying for this storm water • connection. Rich Brasch noted that this would be part of a main arterial but there would need to be some more information obtained to see If this particular community would be assessed for that improvement. He noted that the City Council would be making that decision. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 MEETING PAGE 4 Mr. Frattalone added that he would like to see minimum damage to trees if the outlet is Installed. He then shared photographs of the area with Commission Members so they would be a little more familiar with the area. Jonathan Widem asked what the cost would be to the residents for the Installation of the outlet. Rich Brasch responded that it would be approximately $3,000 per acre spread over 15 years. Mr. Frattalone added that there are three owners near the pond. Ted Billy said It appears the question Is whether the residents should pay for this improvement or should the developer be responsible for it. Mr. Frattalone added that he did not see this as an improvement. Rich Brasch reiterated that the assessment issue was a decision that needs to be made by the City Council. Bill Loomis, 4782 Robert Trail stated he supports the water runoff to the south. He continued that he would like to see the pond get deeper rather than provide a culvert under Hwy 3 which would then eliminate the need for an assessment to the residents. After further discussion, Ted Billy moved, Deborah Johnson seconded with all members voting In favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council regarding Weston Hills: 1. The proposal should be subject to a cash parkland dedication. 2. The proposal should be subject to a cash trailway dedication. 3. That the development be subject to an on-site ponding requirement, that the pond be constructed to National Urban Runoff Program (NURP) design standards, and that the pond meet the requirements for wet volume, surface area, and mean depth Identified In the above narrative. In addition, the pond should Include a skimmer. 4. The issue of routing treated runoff water to Pond LP-27 be tabled until further discussion can occur to resolve this issue. Rich Brasch asked Mike Ridley if it would be a major change for the storm water to change from the north to the south. Mr. Ridley responded that this issue should not require additional Council action, rather could be handled in-house. Rich suggested that this issue could be addressed at the next Commission meeting and changes can be made at that time. Mr. Ryan of Lyman Lumber stated that the runoff situation is an engineering Issue that needs to be resolved. He stated that they do not have a problem with providing on site ponxding and will work with staff to resolve any remaining Issues. Kevin Knight asked if there was anything that could be done to eliminate the outlot from JP-27. Rich Brasch responded that the City needs to be cognizant of any potential flooding risk that may occur by not installing an outlet. Mr. Ryan added that the current elevation is 920 with the normal water level of 922 and the high water level designation of 925.5. He continued that one reason for not raising the level too high is because of proposed development to the south of the site and the impact of future runoff. WEXFORD ADDITION Project Planner Mike Ridley introduced this item to the Commission as a request to amend the Comprehensive Guide Plan from mixed residential to single family, rezoning of 36.1 acres to R-1 and a • preliminary plat of sixty-five (65) lots. The subject parcel is located within the southwest comer of the intersection of Thomas Lake Road and County Road 30. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 MEETING PAGE 5 Rich Brasch reviewed the water quality issues stating that this proposed development is located in drainage basin B which eventually drains to Blackhawk Lake. Rich reminded the Commission that Blackhawk Lake does not currently meet the water quality standards necessary to support the direct contact recreation use classification Identified for this water body in the Water Quality Management Plan. With that in mind, Mr. Brasch stated that the development should be subject to an on-site ponding requirement. Stephen Sullivan reviewed the park and trails dedication requirements which would need to be provided by the developer. He noted that the site is within Park Service Area #28 serviced by Evergreen and Downing neighborhood parks. Thomas Lake Community Park and Heine Pond Park provide specialized recreational benefits. Steve continued that a 1.9 acre parcel within this subdivision had been purchased which had previously fulfilled its parkland dedication. This would require that an adjustment be made in the cash parkland dedication amount. Based on a gross density of 1.80 units per acre this equates to 3.42 units for a cash parks dedication adjustment equivalent to $2,394.00. Steve then reviewed the five staff recommendations as they pertained to parks and trails dedication. Jim Johnston representing Dan Dolan Development Inc. addressed the Commission noting that his involvement with staff has been very enjoyable. They have found staff to be both tough and fair in working with this project. He continued that this project has been voluntarily downsized and they feel it will be of benefit to the City by creating a more aesthetically pleasing development. Mr. Johnston asked that the Commission consider the possibility of reducing dedication fees to allow for more site amenities such as more extensive landscaping to enhance the property as well as buffer the area from adjacent properties. Deborah Johnson asked if it was normal procedure for the Commission to grant a reduction in park or trail dedication fees. Mr. Vraa stated that this is the first time a request of this type has been received. Steve Sullivan added that there are some instances where the Commission has authorized a credit if the amenities provided by the development prove to be a recreational benefit to the city. When a credit is approved by the Commission it does not exceed 25%. Jack Johnson noted that this request has not been considered In the past and expressed his concern for the possibility of setting a precedent. Kevin Knight asked Mr. Johnston what kind of specific amenities he was referring to. Mr. Johnston responded that by the developer voluntarily downsizing this project it would inherently benefit the city. In addition, they are willing to work with staff on any specific areas where landscaping, for example, could be done to screen visual obtrusions as well as provide a higher aesthetic quality to the area. Jonathan Widen asked how the aesthetic plantings would affect the recreational impact of the community. Ted Billy added that he Is not comfortable with considering a credit in this case and expressed his concern for setting a precedent. After further discussion Deborah Johnson moved, Lee Markell seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following six recommendations to the City Council with respect to Wexford Addition: 1. The proposal be subject to a cash parks dedication. 2. The cash park dedication amount shall provide a credit of 3.4 units to the subdivision. 3. The proposal shall be subject to a cash trailways dedication. 4. The developer shall submit a tree protection plan to the City for review and approval prior to final plat. 5. The developer shall install a snow fence adjacent to significant woodland. The snow fence would be inspected and approved by the City prior to any grading. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 MEETING PAGE 6 6. The development be subject to an on-site ponding requirement that the pond be constructed according to National Urban Runoff Program (NURP) design standards. To meet water quality standards the pond would need a wet pond volume of 3.2 acre feet, a minimum surface area at the normal water elevation of .72 acres, and a mean depth of 4.4 feet. Consistent with these design standards, a minimum 10 foot wide bench with a 10:1 slope should be maintained around the edge of the pond just below the normal water level to meet safety requirements. The pond should also include a skimmer on the outlet, and the Inlet should be separated from the outlet to the maximum extent possible. HAWTHORNE WOODS ADDITION - LYMAN DEVELOPMENT Project Planner Mike Ridley Introduced this item to the Commission as a request to rezone 51 acres from Agriculture to R-1 Single Family and the preliminary plat of 97 lots. This parcel is located south of County Road 30, north of Autumn Ridge Addition, east of Dodd Road and west of Highway 3. Rich Brasch addressed the water quality Issues noting that about 5.7 acres on the west side of the development will drain to Pond JP-68, a recreational class pond designated for wildlife habitat. The remainder of the site will drain to the north. All runoff generated from the site will eventually reach Fish Lake and then on to Blackhawk Lake which both hold the Class I classification per the City Water Quality Management Plan and are Intended to support direct contact recreation. Rich noted that neither lake currently meets the Class I water quality standard. Rich continued that the developer will construct a small settling basin contiguous with JP-68 that will partially treat runoff entering JP-68 from Hackmore Drive with the remainder of the water quality obligation being met with a cash dedication, reduced to reflect the credit for the small pond at the northeast corner of JP-68. Parks Planner Sullivan reviewed the parks and trails dedication Issues as they relate to the Hawthorne Addition. He noted this site is within Park Service Area #25W and is served by Lakeside and South Oak neighborhood parks. He noted that there Is adequate parkland and recreation facilities within this Park Service Area and a cash parkland dedication of approximately $67,900 is being proposed. Relative to trails dedication, Steve noted that the Comprehensive Trails Plan proposes trailways along both sides of Dodd Road and County Road 30. The Autumn Ridge subdivision is responsible for the construction of a 6 foot concrete sidewalk along Hackmore Drive which provides safe and efficient pedestrian circulation to Pinewood Elementary School and to Dodd Road. Steve noted that staff is recommending that the Comprehensive Trails System Plan be revised to Include a six foot wide concrete sidewalk along the south side of proposed Hawthorne Woods Drive and a short link along Hackmore Drive. This proposed sidewalk will not only provide safe and efficient pedestrian circulation to Pinewood Elementary School and Dodd Road but will provide continued linkage to Lakeside Park as well as an alternative route to the proposed detached trallway on County Road #30, west of Dodd Road. Another issue discussed was a problem of off street parking by residents which impedes safe and efficient pedestrian circulation. Several options have been discussed, however the typical 60 foot right-of- way and 30 foot front yard setback does not accommodate sidewalks along residential roads. A sidewalk can be unimpeded by double stacked residential parking with either an Increased setback or right-of-way width. Steve continued that subject to the Commission recommending an unimpeded sidewalk, the Planning • Commission and/or City Council would review the increased setback or right of way width alternatives. It was noted that once a sidewalk location was determined, the developer should grade the trail at a 10 foot oversized width and provide a 10 foot clear zone free of any encumbrances, i.e. hydrants, light poles, telephone/cable pedestals, etc. and pedestrian ramps should be installed at all street intersections. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 MEETING PAGE 7 A final issue reviewed by Mr. Sullivan was relative to the analysis and preservation of woodland resources. Some of the items for the Commission to consider included a tree protection plan and the fencing of significant woodlands as Identified In this plan prior to any grading. Steve concluded that the developer has done a good job In site planning and tree preservation. Mr. Ryan, representing Lyman Development, addressed the Commission with their concerns relative to the installation of a sidewalk and the proposed setback requirements relative to double stacking of vehicles. He stated that in October, 1991 the planning had begun for this project and the sidewalk Issue has just recently become a part of this proposal. He expressed their concern for the design implications of providing a 65 foot right-of-way which would adversely affect 9 lots. Secondly they did not feel that the frequency of vehicles impeding sidewalks/trails was significant enough to constitute this type of. change. He continued that Eagan has only a limited amount of developable areas within the city and changing development standards at this time seems inappropriate. He questioned what would be done In areas where sidewalks and trails currently exist. It was noted that current Statutes provide for tagging of cars that are parked on trails. Mr. Ryan added that with this already in place It didn't seem necessary to create a new policy that would only affect the last few developable parcels In the city. Mr. Ryan also stated that the vehicle standard length of 17 feet was used in calculating the proposed right-of way/setback change and that he has found that there are very few cars that meet or exceed this 17 foot length criteria. In conclusion, Mr. Ryan suggested that the issue of encumbered trails be treated equally throughout the city and that all options be considered. Bruce Anderson, 633 Hackmore Drive stated that he was one of the first families to move into this area and was speaking against the option of a cash parkland dedication. He continued that when Autumn Ridge and Hawthorne are completed, there will only be one park to share with the school. He stated that there is only one access to Hawthorne. Mr. Anderson suggested that In lieu of a cash dedication another park site be dedicated and developed. Additionally, he stated he had heard that there would be a link from Autumn Ridge to Lakeside Park and is concerned for safety issues and the fact that there are very few accesses. Mr. Anderson thanked the Commission for their time and consideration. Director Vraa responded that there are two neighborhood parks that service PSA 25W; one is South Oaks Park and the other is Lakeside Park. When Lakeside Park was reconstructed it was Intended that the area to the north would have access. It also provided access for residents to Pinewood School. Steve Sullivan added that the calculated population of the area north of Lakeside Park is approximately 6900 which falls within the neighborhood park population criteria. In response to a question from Jack Johnson, Steve responded that the distance from Hawthorne Addition to Lakeside Park was approximately one-half mile. Jack Johnson asked if there was a history of problems with cars parking on trails. Mr. Vraa responded that this issue most commonly impacts bikers rather than walkers. He continued that the amount of complaints/concerns are subjective and this situation seems to occur more when there Is no off-street parking provided. Mr. Sullivan explained that all the options outlined on page 46 of the packet were done as possible solutions to the double stacking issue and were only provided as guidelines and possible options for consideration. Jonathan Widem asked If on street parking is allowed in this area to which Mr. Vraa responded yes. It was also noted that most of the homes will have double or triple car garages which should lessen the potential for parking on a sidewalk/trail corridor. Jack Johnson suggested that the issue of parking on trails should be addressed through City Codes and was not in favor of changing a requirement in this development at this time. Mr. Johnson also asked that as many trees as possible be preserved. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 MEETING PAGE 8 After further discussion Ted Billy moved, Jonathan Widem seconded the motion with all members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council: 1. The proposal be subject to a cash parkland dedication. 2. The proposal be subject to a cash trails dedication. 3. The Comprehensive Trails Systems Plan be amended to include a sidewalk along the south side of Hawthorne Woods Drive. 4. The developer grade a 10 foot wide trail bench north of the south R.O.W. of Hawthorne Woods Drive and west of the east right-of-way of Hackmore Drive. The developers shall be responsible in assuring that a 10 foot wide area be dear of all encumbrances. Pedestrian ramps shall be installed at all street intersections. 5. The developer provide a tree protection plan prior to final plat that shall be reviewed and approved by City staff. 6. The developer install fencing adjacent to significant woodlands consistent with the approved tree protection plan. The fencing will be inspected and approved by City staff prior to any grading. 7. The developer work with Eagan Engineering Department and Dakota County determining whether the proposed storm sewer pond could be removed from the proposal to an off-site pond. 8. Recommend to the City Council that an analysis be done to determine how best to prevent double stacking of vehicles on trailways and sidewalks. 9. The development include a small pond proposed In the development plan at the southeast corner of JP-68 and that the remainder of the development be subject to a cash water quality dedication In the amount of $27,908. FOLLOW UP FROM LEAGUE LEADERSHIP MEETING Superintendent of Recreation Dorothy Peterson reviewed the function of the League Leadership Committee and reminded the Commission that at their December 5, 1991 meeting they had recommended that staff propose a 50/50 split of concession profits when the concessions are operated by a league team for tournament events. Dorothy continued that Recreation Supervisor Jon Oyanagi has since met with the League Leadership Committee and reported the Commission's recommendation. Jon noted that the League Leadership Committee was not happy with the Commission's recommendation for a 50/50 split because of the large amount of volunteer time involved In running concessions for a tournament. They felt that the profits received would not balance with the time spent in this endeavor and suggested a sliding scale based on net proceeds from the concessions. Their proposal suggested that the city would receive a fee of $25 for the first $200 profit; $50.00 from $200 to $400 profit; $75 from $400 to $600 profit and $100 over $600 profit. It was noted that any higher rates would dearly discourage teams from taking the risk and putting out the work effort. Jon continued that given the Commission's direction to negotiate with the League Leadership Committee on this issue; staff has accepted this compromise position for implementation in 1992. He stated staff will continue to monitor the policy this year and report back to the Commission the results of its implementation. PROPOSED TREE REPLACEMENT ORDINANCE UPDATE Superintendent of Parks John VonDeLinde reminded the Commission of their request to have staff provide an update on the status of the city's landscaping ordinances particularly those sections dealing with landscape preservation and tree replacement in new subdivisions. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 MEETING PAGE 9 The ordinance revision process was divided Into two primary components; the establishment of a new city landscape preservation and tree replacement ordinance as it pertains to new land development and residential subdivisions and secondly, the "post development" landscape ordinances affecting the maintenance of trees on private property, along streets, and in public places. John continued that the City Council adopted the post development ordinances on July 17, 1990 which included shade tree disease control, planting and maintenance of trees on private property, tree contractor licensing and planting and maintenance of trees on public right-of-way. Mr. VonDeLinde explained that the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission has endorsed and recommended to the City Council a series of proposed revisions to the city's subdivision regulations and land use (zoning) regulations. The proposed new requirements Include, minimum planting sizes for deciduous and coniferous trees and shrubs; landscaping budgets equivalent to 2-1/2 percent of the cost of the value of proposed buildings, but not less than $15,000 per development; planting Islands occupying at least five percent of parking areas; reforestation and/or native landscape restoration on all slopes and berms; preservation of woodland areas, i.e. prohibition of clear cutting of woodland areas and caliper inch per caliper inch replacement for shade trees greater than eight inches diameter; regulation of private irrigation systems within public right-of-way; establishment of buffers and vegetative and screening between land use zones, and around all parking, loading, utility and storage areas; and protection of large trees within new construction areas (e.g., no excavation or other sub-surface disturbance within the drip line of any tree eight inches In diameter or more). In conclusion, John stated that the Parks and Recreation Department has been actively implementing the post-development landscape regulations adopted by the Commission and City Council In 1990. The Commission has reviewed and concluded that a comprehensive master street tree planting program is not a viable option at this time. In the interim the City Forestry Division will continue to review and authorize individual permit applications for planting within right-of-way areas, on a case by case basis. With regard to the subdivision and zoning landscape ordinances, the City Council has not yet adopted the revisions approved by the Planning Commission and Parks and Recreation Commission in 1990. With a few minor changes the ordinance could be ready for Council action; but this will require the initiative of the Community Development Division who oversees subdivision and zoning regulations. John stated that Community Development and Engineering are working cooperatively to work out a standard plate for placement of utilities within boulevards. Should any of these outstanding issues be resolved in the near future, Mr. VonDeLinde stated he would bring them back to the Commission as an update. 1992 PARKS DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS Director Vraa introduced this item to the Commission as their annual review of proposed projects for the upcoming year. Ken explained that the packet contained a goals and objectives outline identifying tasks and their priority. He asked the Commission to review the prioritized and non-prioritized items and provide their Input as to which tasks receive the highest priority. Mr. Vraa then reviewed some of the items outlined in the 1992 Planning Division Goals and Objectives and asked the Commission to evaluate these goals and make recommendations regarding their priority and scope. WATER QUALITY BROCHURES Water Resources Coordinator Brasch shared the progress of brochures planned to reach residents to educate them on the role of phosphorus in lake water quality degradation and the connection between storm sewers and lakes. A second brochure is intended to be used as a tear out reference to provide guidance on "lake-friendly" lawn care and other practices. Rich asked Commission Members to call him if they had any comments or questions regarding the brochures. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 MEETING PAGE 10 Jack Johnson expressed his pleasure in seeing these brochures prepared for the public. Jonathan Widem suggested adding information on where solvents and oils could be disposed of. Jack Johnson also suggested adding where no phosphorous or low phosphorous fertilizer can be purchased In the city. STENCILING PROGRAM FOR STORM SEWER CATCH BASINS Rich Brasch introduced this item as a crucial element in the education effort to teach residents about the connection between the City's lakes and the storm sewer system that feeds them. This appears to be a connection that many people simply do not recognize. Rich stated it Is especially Important In the immediate drainage area of a lake where pollutants that enter the storm sewer system are carried directly to the lake without being routed through intermediate ponds to provide opportunities for settling. The 1992 efforts will target the direct drainage areas of all six Class I lakes, as well as seven of the fourteen Class II lakes identified in the City's Water Quality Management Plan. The plan is to paint informative stencils near catch basins in priority drainages. The intent Is to solicit volunteers from the Boy Scouts and/or local civic organizations, with City staff providing overall direction, training and supplies as well as appropriate safety equipment. If the program proves successful it can be expanded to other lower priority areas in succeeding years. After positive comments from the Commission, Erin Ipsen moved, Jonathan Widem seconded the motion will all members voting in favor to recommend to the City Council that the City implement a stenciling program which would provide for painted informative stencils near catch basins in all six Class I lakes, as well as seven of the fourteen Class II lakes identified In the City's Water Quality Management Plan. WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT OF 1991 - UPDATE As background Rich Brasch explained that the basic intent of the Act Is to recognize and protect the public benefits of wetlands with regard to water quality treatment, floodwater retention, public recreation, fish and wildlife habitat, groundwater recharge and potential commercial uses. In general, the Act sets up a program designed to act as a "safety net" for wetlands not actively regulated under the authority of either the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or the federal Corps of Engineers (COE). Rich continued that the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources has been assigned the responsibility of administering the Act at the state level, however the Act mandates a strong role by cities, counties and watershed management organizations in the administration of its regulatory elements. The provisions of the Act take place in two phases. The first phase is an Interim program that begins on January 1,1992 and lasts until July 1, 1993 with the permanent program taking effect on July 1, 1993. Jack Johnson stated this was a step in the right direction and was pleased to see the City Involved with this project. Lee Markell added that there have been several smaller wetlands that have fallen through the cracks so this Act will be a positive step in helping to preserve them. 1992 SUMMER PROGRAM REPORT Ken Vraa Introduced this item to the Commission explaining that the issue of generating revenue came to the forefront during the 1992 budget review process. The philosophy of the Department in the past has been to not charge a fee for the summer playground program, however during the budget review process, the City Council directed staff to charge a fee for this program. The Council left the fee amount up to the discretion of the Department therefore the information provided to the Commission is the conclusion of extensive research and analysis. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 PAGE 11 Recreation Supervisor Paula Nowariak explained the process followed in attempting to determine what type of fee structure would be used for the summer playground program. She reviewed the operation of the program as it currently exists which Is a seven week program operating Monday through Thursday from 1 - 4 PM (Thursdays are typically optional field trips and regular Summer-in-the Park hours are not kept). In looking at alternative ways to present this summer program, Paula reviewed the strengths and weaknesses of operating under the pay by the day approach, magnet approach and split session/camp approach. Other Information obtained included surveying other communities to see what (or if) they charge a fee, how long they have been charging a fee and did they lose a large number of participants by instituting a fee. In most cases, the numbers dropped somewhat, but once the fees were established they were accepted as part of the program. In conclusion, Ms. Nowariak reported that after extensive research and brainstorming by staff the Summer-in-the-Park program will maintain its current format with twelve sites and charge $10.00 per child. The program fee will be re-evaluated for 1993 with a potential increase. In response to a question regarding children who may not be able to afford to attend, Paula replied that the scholarship program will continue under its present format. She added that to date there have been relatively few scholarships requested. DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS Some of the items highlighted in the February Department Happenings Included the Introduction of a track program through EAA, the successful completion of the Bandy school and clinic, upcoming NYSCA coaches training sessions, the successful snow softball tournament during the Winter Weekend, the upcoming closure of the rinks and tubing hill and the preparation for summer softball. It was also noted that two grant requests are being worked on; one for reforestation and one for treatment facility for Blackhawk Lake. ICE ARENA/POOL UPDATE Director Vraa explained that Ankeny Kell and Richter had been selected as the architects to prepare schematic plans and cost estimates. It is anticipated that these plans and estimates should be ready by February for the Design Review Committee to review so that a recommendation can be made to the City Council for their March 3, 1992 meeting. Ken continued that the Committee will meet regularly over the next few weeks to refine plans and provide input for the architects. The proposal Is for an outdoor swimming pool and a six-month operational ice arena. ROUND TABLE Dan Mooradian commented positively on the level of effort provided by staff in both their reports and their presentations. Kevin Knight echoed Mr. Mooradian's comments. Lee Markell referenced the addition of "Natural Resources" to the Commission's title in the last year. He added that staff has taken this issue very seriously and as a Commission Member he was very encouraged with the direction this Issue has gone. With no further business to conduct, Lee Markell moved, Erin Ipsen seconded the motion to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 P.M. S etary Date