09/03/1992 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
SEPTEMBER 3, 1992
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called
to order at 7:35 p.m. on Thursday, September 3,1992 with the following Commission Members present: Kevin
Knight, Dan Mooradian, Deborah Johnson, Ted Billy, Lee Markell, Jonathan Widem and Jack Johnson.
Commission Member Erin lpsen was not present. Staff present included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and
Recreation; Stephen Sullivan, Landscape Architect/Park Planner; Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of
Recreation; John VonDeLinde, Parks Superintendent; Rich Brasch, Water Resources Coordinator; Paula
Nowariak, Recreation Supervisor; Tom Schuster, City Forester and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary.
AGENDA
Director Vraa asked that Whispering Woods 9th Addition be moved from the Consent Agenda to the
Development portion of the agenda. Deborah Johnson moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members
voting in favor to accept the agenda as amended.
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF AUGUST 6, 1992
Kevin Knight moved, Lee Markell seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes as
presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
After review of the park and trail dedication issues by Park Planner Stephen Sullivan and review of the
water quality issues by Water Resources Coordinator Rich Brasch, Ted Billy moved, Lee Markell seconded the
motion to make the following recommendations to the City Council. All members voted in favor.
1. Deerhawk Addition - Dakota County State Bank. This proposal is to be subject to a cash
parks dedication and a cash trails dedication. The developer is to provide a cash dedication
of approximately $4,100 in lieu of ponding on site to meet water quality treatment
requirements. Developer should also be allowed to fill not more than 1500 square feet of the
woodland that currently lies on site and that this filled area be replaced on site at a ratio not
less than one surface acre replacement to one surface acre filled as required under the Interim
Program of the Wetlands Conservation Act.
2. Oak Cliff 7th Addition - Brian S. Mangine. This proposal is to be subject to a cash parks
dedication and a cash trails dedication. It was noted that there are no additional water quality
or woodland protection issues required for this site.
WENZEL ADDITION - WENSMANN REALTY
Stephen Sullivan introduced this item noting that it had recently appeared before the Advisory Planning
Commission and was continued but that the park and trails issues could be reviewed at this time. Steve
continued that as of the morning of September 3, 1992, land use changes are being proposed for this
development changing cluster homes to townhomes and lessening the density. Steve continued that the parks
and trails dedication issues were first discussed with the review of the Deerwood School. An evaluation of the
park needs in this area will be completed with the zoning and platting of the 80 acre parcel located west of
the Wenzel property. Steve continued that the proposal indicates a 25 foot trail easement within the northeast
corner of the plat providing pedestrian linkage between this development and Deerwood School. The
developer would be responsible for providing an 8 foot wide trail pad at finish grade and the City would instal
the concrete sidewalk using trail dedication funds. The school district has concurred with this trail connection.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and NaturalResources Commission
Minutes of September 3,1992 Meeting
Page 2
Mr. Sullivan then reviewed the woodland resources on this site identifying the woodlands around the
pond and the woodland running along the north side near Deerwood School. Steve noted that the original plan
was to leave trees around the pond as well as the woodland buffering on the north side of the site. It is
unknown at this time what impact the proposed land use change will have on the woodlands but staff will work
with the developer when new information is available.
Another issue identified by Mr. Sullivan is that of providing recreational open space as outlined in
Chapter 11 of the City Code. This requires that each multiple dwelling complex have a minimum open
recreation area equal to 200 square feet for each dwelling unit containing 2 or less bedrooms and 100
additional square feet for each dwelling unit containing more than 2 bedrooms. The original plan for 163 units
would equate to 32,600 square feet, or .74 acres, of recreational open space required. Steve asked the
Commission how they would like to proceed with this particular item. Lee Markell suggested that since this
issue would be coming back to the Commission again in October that staff review changes that are being
proposed and update the Commission so that they can better answer these questions in October. Mr. Markell
commented on the beautiful ridge on the north and west of the pond and suggested that a trail be considered
around the pond. He also suggested that consideration be given to providing the pond as a resource to the
school.
Water Resources Co-ordinator Brasch indicated that he is waiting to see the revised site plan to see
what impact it will have on water quality issues.
Jack Johnson stated that he like the idea of a trail around the pond and asked if that would be a feasible
option. Steve Sullivan responded that the lots extend into the pond but that the City could obtain easements,
if required, to allow for a trail. He did add, however, that construction of a trail in this location may be
difficult.
Kevin Knight asked why staff had preliminarily recommended a cash dedication. Mr. Sullivan
responded that the school takes some relief from the park use needs in this PA, however, it appears that the
majority of the park users within PA 21 are north of Deerwood school. It was noted that if the site to the west
of this development (Bieter Property) is developed into residential, increasing the park usage in this PA, the
Commission can request that the development provide recreational amenities within their development and
provide for parks dedication credit. Director Vraa added that the future extension of Thomas Lake Road has
still not been determined at this time and could have an impact on what the parkland use would be within this
PA.
After further discussion, Ted Billy moved to continue this item to the October 1, 1992 meeting. Lee
Markell added that staff work with the developer to try to establish a trail around the woodland and make a
connection from the school to the pond. Jonathan Widem added that the knoll and the white oak treed areas
should be maintained, if possible. Jonathan Widem seconded the amended motion and all members voted in
favor.
WHISPERING WOODS 9TH ADDITION - HILLA, INC.
Park Planner Sullivan introduced this item as a preliminary plat application for a single family
residential development consisting of 11 lots on 5.2 acres currently zoned as Agricultural. Steve noted that this
site is located at the south end of Slaters Acres Road. After reviewing the parks and trails dedication issues
Steve noted that the wooded areas consist primarily of oaks, birch and aspen.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of September 3, 1992 Meeting
Page 3
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch reviewed the water quality issues noting that this development
is located in the far southwest corner of the City of Eagan and actually lies outside any of the designated
drainages for the City. The runoff from this development will discharge to storm water pond designated E-24
in the City of Burnsville and on to the Minnesota River. Because the proposed development drains water to
the City of Burnsville, the developer is questioning the rationale of applying water quality mitigation standards
required by the City of Eagan when the runoff discharges into a Burnsville storm water pond. Relative to the
wetlands issues, Rich noted that about 1600 square feet of the Type 1 woodland would be filled due to the
construction of a proposed southward extension of Slater Road associated with the development. He continued
that the developer contends that this wetland is not a natural wetland but was formed because of construction
of Storland and Slater Roads which block the drainage to the north. Rich also recommended that the fringe
woodland around the City of Burnsville's Pond E-24 be delineated priorto preliminary plat approval and filling,
burning or draining of the woodland be prohibited.
Scott Hilla addressed the Commission indicating that Rich Brasch has reviewed the issues very well.
He continued that he didn't feel that the water quality fees should be paid in Eagan since the storm water pond
was located in Burnsville. Mr. Hilla did indicate that the woodland issues had been resolved.
Lee Markel) asked what water quality fees were required in Burnsville. Mr. Hilla responded that there
is a per resident fee but that there are no fees required by a developer for water quality. Mr. Markell asked
how far the homes would beset back from the pond. Mr. Hilla responded that he will be requesting a variance
to pull the building pads farther away from the pond.
Jack Johnson noted that since the development fal Is within the City of Eagan he was in favor of keeping
the cash dedication for water quality. Kevin Knight added that the intent of the dedication fee was to allow
for the improvement of water quality throughout the City of Eagan, therefore he felt the fee was appropriate.
After further discussion, Jack Johnson moved, Dan Mooradian seconded the motion with all members
voting in favor to make the following parks and trails dedication recommendations to the City Council relative
to Whispering Woods Ninth Addition.
1. That the proposal be subject to a cash parks dedication.
2. That the proposal be subject to a cash trails dedication.
3. That the developer provide a tree protection plan for city review and approval.
Jack Johnson moved, Lee Markell seconded the motion with all members voting in favor to make the
following water quality recommendations to the City Council relative to Whispering Woods Ninth Addition.
1. That the development be subject to a cash dedication requirement to meet water quality
standards. In addition, the fringe woodland around the City of Burnsville's Pond E-24 must
be delineated prior to preliminary plat approval and filling, burning or draining of the
woodland is prohibited.
REPORT ON OAK WILT DISEASE IN EAGAN
Parks Superintendent VonDeLinde introduced this item as a review of the extent of oak wilt in the
community and within the City park system. The intention of the report is to provide some background about
this disease,its methods of spread, review prevention and treatment alternatives and outline preliminary policy
and program alternatives for dealing with this issue. Mr. VonDeLinde continued that this report is informational
only and that there is no Commission action required at this time.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of September 3, 1992 Meeting
Page 4
City Forester Schuster then reviewed a series of slides on oak wilt so the Commission Members could
see the effects of oak wilt disease both within the City park system and throughout the City. He noted that red
and pin oaks are the most susceptible and burr and white oaks are lease susceptible to the disease. Tom
showed slides of the first signs of the disease, how it is spread and how quickly a large area is impacted and
destroyed. He added that 1200 - 2000 trees will die each year from oak wilt, with 100 - 120 of those being
lost within the park system, if no control program is initiated.. The majority of the tree loss occurs in
unmaintained areas making it difficult to access the trees to treat them. It was noted that red oaks will die once
they are infected but white oaks may have a better chance of surviving if the disease is caught early and
treatment begins. Tom presented the Commission with in-depth information as to the types of treatments
available, what information has been provided to the public to help combat this problem and what steps the
City is taking to preserve the oaks.
Tom continued that the City has a policy in place to allow tree inspectors to condemn trees and to
require their removal, however the ideal situation would be that City staff could remove or treat all diseased
trees on public property and identify and require removal or treatment of all diseased trees on private property.
This option would require a significant increase in staffing levels and funding of contractual budgets which
would be cost prohibitive at this time. Tom did note that the State has targeted the north metro area for its first
cost share assistance program to help with the large losses of oaks in that community. In 1992 the State has
about $175,000 earmarked for oak wilt suppression programs and it is expected that this funding will be
available and may increase to the point-that Dakota County communities may be eligible for program funding
as early as 1994. In conclusion Tom stated that in order to have a successful oak wilt suppression program
the City will need to implement a multifaceted public policy including public education, inspection,
enforcement, disease abatement and public forest management.
Jack Johnson thanked John VonDeLinde and Tom Schuster for their thorough report and stated he was
unaware how extensive the problem was. Kevin Knight asked if the City Council was aware of this problem
and suggested that if they are not they should be told. He also asked if it was possible to look at funding
before 1994. Mr. VonDeLinde responded that they estimated start up costs of approximately $80-90,000 in
equipment and $100-120 in personnel. Kevin Knight suggested that the Commission set up a meeting date
when they could better review this issue and look at what the priorities should be based on anticipated funding.
Noting the importance of reviewing this issue more thoroughly and quickly a meeting date of September 17,
7 PM at the Central Maintenance office was set as a special workshop for the Commission and Staff to more
thoroughly review this problem so that recommendations can be made to the City Council.
SUMMER RECREATION REPORT
Superintendent of Recreation Peterson reviewed some of the summer recreation activities beginning
with the continued growth of the tennis program. One of the changes noted in 1992 was the elimination of
intermediate level lessons and the addition of Beginner 1 and 2 lessons. The drills offered for adults was well
received as were the tournaments for juniors which were well attended.
Reservations of facilities showed an 83% increase from 1991 to 1992 which was due in part to the
increase in numbers of teams participating and needing fields. Each of the 531 reservations resulted in some
type of field set up. It was noted that these numbers did not reflect EAA sites or regular adult softball games.
Dorothy continued that if the softball/baseball program continues to grow at the rate it has been there may
again be a shortage of playing space.
Dorothy reported that the concessions went very well but staff may need to look at offering concessions
at more league activities. It was noted that there was also a 40% increase in shelter and pavilion reservations.
The sand volleyball program could see some increase but with that there could be some potential parking
problems. Another site with more courts may need to be addressed based on the volume of use at the Rahn
courts.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of September 3, 1992 Meeting
Page 5
Regarding adult softball leagues, Dorothy noted that the issue of outside player fees will need to be
addressed again this year. Mendota Heights players have been allowed to be grandfathered into the league
for the last several years based on their community not offering a league, however, 1993 will be the first year
their facilities and league will be on-line so the question that needs to be addressed is whether they will be
considered as outside players for 1993. Other successful programs reviewed were the Baseball Hitting Camp,
Camp Creative and In-Line Skating Lessons that were offered for the first time this summer.
Paula Nowariak reviewed some of the summer programs she was in charge of. The largest impact in
summer programming was the institution of a fee for Summer in the Park. This may have resulted in a small
decline in enrollment along with the busy schedules children had. Paula continued that she again had an
excellent staff to work with for the summer and thanked everyone who helped to make the summer a successful
one for the youth participating in Eagan programs. One change seen in the Summer in the Park program was
the change in attitude of children. Separating 10-12 year olds into a new type of program may prove to be
beneficial in 1993 and will be looked at when planning begins. Paula noted that the addition of optional sites
which would facilitate those children who chose not to participate in field trips was not as successful as staff
has hoped and suggested not incorporating that option in 1993.
Other programs reviewed included Eaganettes which showed an increase in numbers to 165 from 144
in 1991. It was felt that there may need to be some modifications made to the recital at the end of the program
since the numbers of people that attend are becoming too large to be accommodated in the building used for
the recital.
In conclusion, Paula shared a video of the 5 year old T-Ball program that aired on Good Company
which gave the Commission a good feel for some of the summer programming activities.
PARKS DEVELOPMENT
Steve Sullivan noted that the bid for Blackhawk Park Improvement Contract 92-8 was awarded to
Bituminous Roadways. He continued that a preconstruction meeting was held earlier today with work being
scheduled to begin September 7th. It is hoped that November 15th will be the completion date. The bid for
the boardwalk was awarded to Galva-Foam with an anticipated delivery date of October 12 and installation
to begin October 23.
Steve continued that a sun shelter will be constructed by the maintenance staff at Northview Athletic
similar to those at Walnut Hill and O'Leary Parks. Trapp Farm Park playground is complete and Steve
commended the maintenance staff for the excellent job they did in completing that project. Steve also noted
that Wescott Station Park playground is complete and is in full compliance with ADA requirements.
Playground equipment for Captain Dodd Park will be installed as soon as it arrives.
WATER QUALITY
Rich Brasch brought the Commission's attention to the executive summary forthe Met Council's interim
strategy to reduce pollutant loads to the Minnesota River. He explained that the EPA and the MPCA agreed
in 1990 on a goal to reduce non-point source pollution in the Minnesota River by 40% from pre-1980 levels.
The strategy would require local governments in the Minnesota River Basin to adopt design standards for new
stormwater ponds that will reduce the contaminant loadings from surface water runoff. Rich continued that
the City's Water Quality Management Program presently includes many of the stormwater as well as
housekeeping "best management practices" required by the Met Council. Mr. Brash indicated that this
introduces some interesting issues and the city will need to try to achieve the goals as set forth by the EPA.
Jack Johnson asked if the PCA would be enforcing these requirements. Mr. Brasch responded that the
Met Council may be in charge of enforcement and they may use the denial of a change in a Comp Guide Plan
as a vehicle to enforce the policy along with other option that are yet to be considered.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of September 3, 1992 Meeting
Page 6
Rich asked the Commission Members to consider a date when the Wetlands Task Force could meet.
The date of September 22, 1992, 7 PM, at the Central Maintenance Facility was scheduled for that meeting.
HAPPENINGS
Some of the items highlighted in the Happenings included, 6 fields set up at Blue Cross/Blue Shield
for bantam soccer,seniors have begun moving into the senior housing site on Cliff Road and staff will be
looking at the potential for doing some programming at that site. Other items highlighted included the
installation of new dugouts at Rahn Athletic, trails and parking lots sealcoating, hosting of the annual Twin
Cities Tree Trust Recognition luncheon, work completed through the STS program and two grant applications
submitted to the DNR under their Community Forestry Grants Program.
ROUND TABLE
Jack Johnson reminded the Commission that they will need to begin preparing to review and update
the Parks Systems Master Plan. There is a great deal of work that needs to be completed and since there is no
room in the budget to hire a consultant, the Commission should be looking at setting up a series of meetings
to begin this process. He suggested that the Commission Members look at the possibility of an October meeting
and set the first meetings at the October 1st Commission meeting.
The Commission Members also set the date of Friday, September 18 for their annual picnic at Thomas
Lake Park. All members were encouraged to participate.
With no further business to conduct, Lee Markell moved, Jack Johnson seconded with all members
voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 p.m.
Secretary Date