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04/02/1992 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA APRIL 2, 1992 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 1992 with the following Commission Members present: Erin Ipsen, Jonathan Widem, Lee Markell, Jack Johnson, Ted Billy, Dan Mooradian, and Kevin Knight. Commission Member Deborah Johnson was not present. 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; Jon Oyanagi, Recreation Supervisor and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary. AGENDA Jack Johnson asked that "Phosphorous Containing Fertilizer" be added as Item #3 under Water Quality. Ted Billy moved, Erin lpsen seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the agenda as amended. MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 5, 1992 Dan Mooradian moved, Lee Markell seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes as presented. CONSENT AGENDA It was noted that there were no consent agenda items for the Commission to review. GREAT OAKS ADDITION - ROBERT ENGSTROM COMPANIES This item was introduced by Director Vraa as an application requesting a Comprehensive Guide Plan change from D-3 multiple family to D-1 single family. The proposal also requests the rezoning from R-4 to R-1 and the preliminary platting of 29 lots on approximately 20 acres. Rich Brasch reviewed the water quality issues regarding this proposal. He continued that this residential development lies in the upper reach of Drainage Basin J and while there are no recreational- classed water bodies immediately down drainage, Fish Lake lies on the lower end of this drainage. On-site ponding to meet water quality standards is both desirable and feasible for this site. The larger of the two depressions lies in the west central portion of the site and could be excavated to provide a pond with a surface acreage of about .3 acres and a wet pond volume of .8 acre-feet and would serve about 10.6 acres of the site. The other depression lies in the east central portion of the site and could be excavated to provide a pond with a surface area of about .13 acres at normal water level and a wet pond volume of about .31 acre-feet which will serve an additional four acres of the site. Rich had indicated that In discussions with the developer they were agreeable to the water quality requirements. Stephen Sullivan reviewed the parks and trails issues for this site which included determining what the parks dedication requirements, trails dedication requirements and impact to the woodland resource would be. Steve continued that the Great Oaks Addition is within Neighborhood Park Service Area #14 and is served by Mueller Farm Park. The Woodlands Planned Development agreement provides for a cash parks dedication based on the rate schedule at the time of final plat. The proposal, Steve continued, should be subject to a cash trails dedication. Steve stated that he had just recently been made aware of a request by the developer for a credit of trails dedication fees in lieu of installing an internal trail system. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF APRIL 2, 1992 MEETING PAGE 2 After further discussion Ted Billy moved, Dan Mooradian seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following recommendation to the City Council regarding Great Oaks Addition: 1. The proposal be subject to a cash parkland dedication. 2. The proposal be subject to a cash trails dedication. Should staff feel that a change should be made in the costs of the trail dedication this issue should be brought back to the Commission for review. 3. The developer revise the easterly cul-de-sac to preserve additional woodland area. 4. The developer provide a schematic layout/grading plan for Lots 6 & 7, Block #1, for City review and approval prior to final plat. 5. The proponent revise the layout of the west cul-de-sac roads to minimize Impact to the adjacent woodland. The revision shall be reviewed and approved by City staff prior to final plat. 6. The proponent revise the landscape plan to include tree protection fencing. The revised plan shall be submitted and approved by City staff prior to final plat. 7. The developer provides tree protection fencing for each lot to be reviewed and approved by City staff at the time of building permit application. 8. The development meet its water quality treatment requirements by creating two treatment ponds on-site. The larger of the two depressions to be excavated to provide a pond with a surface area of about .3 acres and a wet pond volume of .8 acre-feet, serving about 10.6 acres of the site. The second depression to be excavated to provide a pond with a surface area of about .13 acres at normal water level and a wet pond volume of about.31 acre-feet serving an additional four acres of the site. BOULEVARD PLANTING STUDY - WESCOTT ROAD Parks Superintendent VonDeLinde noted that at the November and February Commission meetings a report was presented to the Commission evaluating the feasibility of implementing a master street tree planting program in the City of Eagan. The results of that study concluded that of the 84 miles of boulevard included in the evaluation, approximately 4 miles met the minimum geometric standards for boulevard landscaping and did not take into consideration the presence of underground utilities, further restricting the viability of such a program. John continued that the Commission directed staff to examine in greater detail the feasibility of developing a "streetscaping" program along Wescott Road between Pilot Knob Road and Lexington Avenue. John then introduced City Forester Tom Schuster. Mr. Schuster explained that appropriate utility companies had been contacted in March to request utility locations along Wescott Road. Additionally, the city's Engineering Department revealed that the road right-of-way extends from the center line of the road to a point approximately 12" beyond the back of the curb. Mr. Schuster then reviewed a very extensive slide presentation showing where each utility was located within the boulevard on Wescott Road and the impact that planting would have on the boulevard. Some of the items reviewed by Mr. Schuster included the fact that the boulevard width on the south side of Wescott from Pilot Knob Road to the library is 10 feet. The boulevard width from the east entrance of the library to Denmark is 12 feet and it then widens to 14 feet. The north side of Wescott Road provides more boulevard room. There are 14 feet for planting from the gas line to the trail. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF APRIL 2, 1992 MEETING PAGE 3 Tom stated that it would be difficult, if not impossible, to place plantings on the south side of Wescott Road because of the location of utilities. On the north side of Wescott Road the only obstacle to deal with would be the overhead utility lines which can be addressed. Yet another option would be to provide for no plantings at all on this boulevard area. Lee Markell suggested considering oak savannah or prairie on the north side of Wescott Road and then have concentrated plantings near the library and City Hall on the south side. John VonDeUnde stated staff will look at concepts for the northern side slopes as well as shared opportunities with residents on the north side. After further discussion the Commission suggested that staff consider some of the options presented and do a pilot area that can be expanded upon. John VonDeUnde suggested that staff look at some alternatives and get back to the Commission in 1-2 months with costs and options so that the Commission will have something more definite to react to. ARBOR DAY RESOLUTION Director Vraa introduced this item to the Commission noting that Arbor Day would be April 25 and the celebration would be held at Wescott Station Park. Superintendent of Parks VonDeUnde read the proposed Arbor Day Resolution to the Commission. Jack Johnson commented that this program has been embraced whole-heartedly in the past and would like to see the support continued. After further discussion Kevin Knight moved, Erin Ipsen seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend to the City Council the adoption of the Arbor Day Resolution. B-BOP TO WORK - MAY 19 Director Vraa introduced this item explaining that the Minnesota Department of Transportation sponsors a B-BOP to Work Day in Minnesota which encourages Minnesotans to bicycle, walk, car pool or bus to work on a specific day. Recreation Supervisor Oyanagi explained that May 19, 1992 has been scheduled as the date for this activity and asked the Commission to consider adopting a Resolution supporting B-BOP to Work in Eagan. After further discussion, Ted Billy moved, Dan Mooradian seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend to the City Council the adoption of the B-BOP Day in Eagan Resolution. DEERWOOD PONDS UPDATE Water Quality Coordinator Brash reminded the Commission of a discussion in March regarding prospective water quality treatment requirements for the Deerwood Ponds development. This single family development is located along the south side of Diffley Road, west of Pilot Knob Road. Initial staff recommendation was to require raising the normal water level of pond BP-27 by one foot and increasing to .75 acre/feet the storage volume of a smaller wetland to the north. Subsequent investigation by the developer's engineer, along with city staff review, indicated that raising the normal water level in pond BP-27 was not possible without further submerging the storm sewer system that ties into the pond, causing probable maintenance problems. Mr. Brasch continued that final analysis showed that increasing the wet pond volume of pond BP- 27.2 to .4 acre-feet of an acre/foot, and increasing the wet pond volume of pond BP-27.1 to .7 acre-feet will meet treatment standards for the development. The developer would also install a skimmer on the outlet of pond BP-27. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF APRIL 2, 1992 MEETING PAGE 4 After further discussion Erin Ipsen moved, Dan Mooradian seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend that the development comply with city water quality treatment requirements by increasing the wet pond volumes of ponds BP-27.1 to .7 acre-feet and BP-27.2 to .4 acre-feet of an acre/foot along with installing a skimmer on the outlet to pond BP-27. STREET SWEEPING/SANDING UPDATE Water Quality Coordinator Brasch introduced this item as a response to an inquiry by the Commission in March. Some of the questions the Commission had asked included 1) Who conducts sanding and salting operations and street sweeping activities within the city? 2) Are records kept of the amount of sand and salt spread on city streets as well as for the amount of debris picked up through street sweeping operations? 3) What do those figures show? 4) Is sand and salt used at a heavier rate in Eagan than in other communities? 5) What is the chemical makeup of street sweepings and how are they disposed of? In response to Question 1, Rich explained that the Street Division within the Department of Public Works conducts these operations on all city streets excluding those that are also county highways. Dakota County Department of Highways generally conducts these operations for county highways such as Lexington, Yankee Doodle, Pilot Knob, Diffley, Cliff and Lone Oak Roads. Also Minnesota Department of Transportation sands, salts and sweeps state and inter-state highways within the city. In response to Question 2, it was noted that Public Works keeps records of the volume of sand and salt applied for snow and ice removal as well as the volume of debris picked up through sweeping operations, however there are no similar numbers from Dakota County. In response to Question 3, Rich reviewed a chart showing the units of measure for snow and ice control and the sweeping operation from 1985 through 1991. The information revealed that approximately 60-70% of the sand/salt is picked up for disposal. In response to Question 4, the information revealed that other cities surveyed use approximately 6-8 tons of sand and salt per mile whereas Eagan uses approximately 4 tons per mile. Rich noted that there have been some instances of over application at times, however the Streets Department has been sensitive to the environmental impact and will continue to be. John VonDeLinde added that there appears to be an increased level of sand on the boulevards on county roads resulting in additional labor to sweep the boulevards. In addition, the salt that remains on the turf causes a maintenance problem. Jack Johnson thanked staff for their prompt response to this Issue and for the thorough report presented. PHOSPHOROUS CONTAINING FERTILIZER Jack Johnson introduced this item as an addition to the agenda. He suggested that the city take a pro-active approach to the level of phosphorous allowed for turf applications. Jack suggested that an ordinance be considered which would limit the phosphorous level in fertilizer to less than 3%. He asked that staff investigate what is occurring in other communities and asked other Commission members for their feedback. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF APRIL 2, 1992 MEETING PAGE 5 Ted Billy asked how lawns would suffer by lowering the phosphorous level of fertilizer. Rich Brasch stated that phosperous stimulates root growth, however, in testing done on residential lawns, 80-85% had adequate phosphorous in the soil. Mr. Billy asked if soil has sufficient phosphorous would it need to be supplemented at a later date, i.e. 6-8 months. John VonDeLinde responded that 90% of test results indicated no need for additional phosphorous, however, he noted that starter fertilizer has a larger percentage of phosphorous but that level doesn't need to be maintained long term. Mr. Billy asked if banning phosphorous would cause a legal problem and suggested that the emphasis be placed on education rather than establishing an ordinance. Mr. VonDeLinde noted that this would tie in very well with a new brochure. John did add that the City of Shoreview had a ban on phosphorous over 3% and found it very difficult to enforce. Ted Billy added that he felt folks in the area would willingly cooperate once they were aware of the facts. Dan Mooradian stated that a large percentage of homeowners and companies use a commercial service to fertilize their lawns and very few commercial firms provide the composition of their fertilizer. In discussing testing of phosphorous levels for homeowners, Kevin Knight suggested that the city do some spot testing near water bodies. Dan Mooradian asked if the University of Minnesota might do a "testing day" where they set up at a specific location and homeowners can stop in with a soil sample for testing. Jack Johnson asked if it was feasible to make a recommendation to the City Council that phosphorous level be maintained at 3%. Director Vraa suggested that staff look at the Shoreview ordinance, do some additional research and get back to the Commission at a later date. DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS Superintendent of Recreation Dorothy Peterson reviewed some of the Department Happenings which included pre-school program registrations reaching their capacity at registration, children's egg hunt on April 18, and 200 teams registered for 1992 adult softball. City Forester Tom Schuster explained that the City had received their 5th Annual Tree City Award and National Arbor Day Foundation Growth Award at the University of Minnesota. Tom outlined the requirements for each award and then presented to Jack Johnson, on behalf of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission, both awards. Mr. Johnson accepted the awards and thanked department staff for their continued good work on behalf of the City of Eagan. Mr. Schuster added that the most fun with these projects is the interaction in the schools with the kids. The poster contest continues to be the highlight of the Arbor Day activities. He continued that the Department of Agriculture and DNR currently pick out Arbor Day posters as well and Tom has suggested that a child's poster be used as the state poster. They are giving that some consideration. ICE ARENA/SWIMMING POOL UPDATE Director Vraa shared the video done by Carl First of Leisure Concepts and Ken Vraa which will be airing on cable TV over the next several weeks. This was done to provide additional information to the public regarding this proposed facility. Ken continued that the City Council will meet in one week to adopt a dollar amount for the referendum. ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES OF APRIL 2, 1992 MEETING PAGE 6 JOINT MEETING WITH COUNCIL - MARCH 31, 1992 Director Vraa asked Commission members if they had any comments from the joint meeting. Ted Billy stated that he was impressed with the knowledge of the City Council relative to parks issues. Jack Johnson added that some of the discussion included fees and charges for organizations such as EAA, YMCA, etc.; the construction and improvements to Blackhawk Park and the need to update the Park Plan by 1993. REVIEW OF TWO NEW FORESTRY BROCHURES John VonDeLinde introduced the 3rd and 4th brochures which are scheduled to be published by Arbor Day. These brochures include dealing with home landscaping problems and planning the residential landscape. WINTER PROGRAM REPORT Recreation Supervisor Jon Oyanagi outlined the winter program activities for 1991-92 commenting on the unusual winter that necessitated some changes to scheduled activities. Due to the early snowfall the tubing hill opened three week-ends early and stayed open one extra week-end. Jon continued that staff did a better job of helping park users enjoy the winter through Increased interaction, leading activities, enforcing rules and keeping a presentable warming shelter. The hot chocolate sales were very successful again and the sites at Clearwater and Trapp Farm Park were heavily used sites. Jack Johnson noted that he had observed several skating facilities that were empty; one of which was Pilot Knob. He continued that the numbers of participants seemed to be higher where there are shelter buildings and supervisors. Jon added that the Pilot Knob site has a trailer for shelter but attendance has been steadily dropping over the last several years. ROUND TABLE Lee Markell asked if the packet information could be received by Commission members earlier than the Tuesday before the meeting. He expressed the need to review the information more thoroughly and also wanted to visit the sites where development issues would be considered. Director Vraa stated that based on the time frame the department has to work with, it is difficult to get packet information out any earlier. It was felt that if, at some point in the future, the Advisory Planning Commission and Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission could switch their meetings there would be more time to respond to issues in a timely fashion. Lee Markell suggested a vehicle whereby Commission Members could have a preview of development issues that will be on the next agenda and perhaps visit the sites at their leisure before the meeting. Steve Sullivan stated he would be happy to meet with any of the Commission Members on site to review the site and answer questions before the meetings. Ken Vraa reminded the Commission of the change in schedule for the May meeting. The meeting will be preceded by a tour of parks beginning at 6:30 PM with the regular meeting beginning at 7:30 PM. With no further business to conduct Erin Ipsen moved, Lee Markell seconded with all members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 9:50 PM. zzl~/ Av~w I1~ /-T L S cretary Da e