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11/05/1992 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA NOVEMBER 5, 1992 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 5, 1992 with the following Commission Members present: Ted Billy, Jonathan Widem, Kevin Knight, Dan Mooradian, Erin Ipsen, and Jack Johnson. Commission Members Deborah Johnson and Lee Markell were 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 and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary. AGENDA Under Other Business and Reports, Director Vraa added (3) Joint Commission/Council Meeting and (4) Request and Proposal from Dakota, Inc. Dan Mooradian moved, Kevin Knight seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the agenda as amended. MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 1, 1992 Kevin Knight moved, Erin Ipsen seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes of October 1, 1992 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, Erin Ipsen moved, Jonathan Widem seconded the motion to make the following recommendations to the City Council. All members voted in favor. 1. Preliminary Plat - Toby Stevens. This plat was reviewed by the Commission at their October 1,1992 meeting with subsequent recommendations having been made to the City Council. 2. Town Ctr 70 13th Add. - McDonald's Corporation. This proposal be subject to a cash parks dedication and a cash trails dedication. This proposal be subject to a cash dedication to meet water quality standards. The cash dedication will apply only to Lot 1, Block 1. Water quality requirements for Outlot A will be defined at a future date. WENZEL ADDITION - WENSMANN REALTY Director Vraa reminded the Commission that Mr. Wensmann was present at the October commission meeting and was directed to provide a grading plan to staff reflecting the changes proposed in the plat. Ken continued that the grading plan has not been received to date, however, the plan has been approved by the Advisory Planning Commission. It was noted that the City Council is reviewing this item at their meeting this evening and that the recommendation for approval will be contingent upon the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission recommendations after reviewing the issue at their December meeting. Ted Billy moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to carry this item over to the December 3, 1992 meeting. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 5, 1992 Meeting Page 2 POND JP-69 - DIFFLEY/DANIEL PARCEL Director Vraa reviewed this agenda item with the Commission noting that there were two separate issues that would need to be addressed. The first issue dealt with the Commission's approval, rejection or modification to the development of a storm water retention pond identified as JP-69 located within the 5.6 acre parcel. The pond consumes only a portion of the subject parcel thus the second issue for the Commission's consideration is to make a recommendation regarding the intended use of the remaining portion of the property. Ken reminded the Commission that they had reviewed the grading plan for the proposed retention pond at their October meeting. Since the October meeting staff has re-reviewed the grading for the pond area and has seen no need for substantial changes to the design. The current plan preserves a significant amount of trees on the east side adjacent to the residential properties, is approximately 1.5 acres with a normal water elevation of 946. The high water elevation will be at a 952 with the pond bottom at an elevation of 943 which leaves 3 feet of water in the pond. Ken noted that this wet volume promotes water quality and provides for an aesthetic pond. The pond also meets the storm water volumetric needs and promotes effective water quality while preserving the greatest number of significant trees on the site. The design also provides for development of the remaining residual property either as single family lots and/or as park. After further discussion, Kevin Knight moved, Jonathan Widem seconded the motion with all members voting in favor to accept the grading plan for pond JP-69 as presented. Director Vraa identified the second issue for the Commission to consider is the determination of what to do with the residual portion of this property. It was noted that the preferred use suggested by the residents is for preservation of the trees on this property and that it be used for a developed park. Ken explained that staff has reviewed this request and it is clear that the site could accommodate a hard court and play equipment area without significant disruption to the resource. It could also accommodate a relatively small, five to seven stall parking lot if necessary. As background Mr. Vraa explained that the residual land borders Daniel Drive and utilities were stubbed in when Daniel Drive was upgraded to allow for the eventual sale of these lots. Ken continued that staff met with the neighboring residents on Monday, November 2 to solicit their input. The residents expressed their concern for safety in this area as well as their desire to have an accessible play space. Based on that input, athletic development on the site has been ruled out resulting in staff researching a playground and hard court area. The total estimate including play equipment, hard court, parking lot, grading and site restoration could range from $42-48,000. Further discussion with the residents indicated the potential for a trailway off Diffley that would, perhaps, loop through the wooded area on the north and then come back to Diffley. Landscape Architect/Park Planner Sullivan noted that the subject parcel is located within the north central edge of Park Service Area 26 which include all the residential property west of Dodd Road, south of County Road 30, north of County Road 32, and east of County Road 43. The PSA limits were expanded with the rezoning from CSC to Single Family as a result of the Lexington Pointe Additions. The parks serving this PSA are Walnut Hill Park and Trapp Farm Park with the entire park service population, including the subject parcel and neighborhood, located within 3/4 mile of these two parks. It is anticipated that the buildout population would be approximately 4,700 (the Park Systems Plan's standards for service by a neighborhood park is 2-5,000 residents). Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 5, 1992 Meeting Page 3 Steve continued that maintenance of the residual property allows for open space fora small playground area that would more accessibly serve the approximately 50 children in the immediate area.. Steve reiterated that the playground at Walnut Hill is approximately 3/4 mile from this area and Trapp Farm Park is approximately 1/2 mile away. Northview Elementary School is immediately north of this parcel, however County Road 30 makes access difficult to this playground. It was noted that in discussions with the Engineering Department regarding the upgrading of County Road 30, the installation of a semaphore on Braddock and Co.Rd. 30 to provide a safe access to Northview Elementary School may be considered. This could be further enhanced by a crosswalk with pedestrian activated lights in the future. Another alternative outlined for Commission consideration was the sale of the residual land for eight single family lots. Staff anticipates that the five southerly lots would sell for no less than $30,000 and the three remaining lots would be less given their location and proximity to the Diffley and Daniel Drive intersection. Yet another alternative presented for consideration was to have the City keep the property at its current R-1 zoning and defer a decision based on future information and need. It was noted that the down side of this option may be the interpretation that the property is zoned for "parks" and not R-1 resulting in confusion if the property is developed at a later date. Mr. Vraa reiterated the options available to the Commission; 1) Recommend the sale of residual property for lot development, 2) Apportion the residual portion for residential lot development reserving the remainder for parks use, 3) Retain all the residual property for parks use or 4) Retain the property, do not change zoning classification from R-1 thus reserving the opportunity to review the parcel and parkland needs at a later date. Chairman Jack Johnson invited anyone in the audience to share their comments and concerns. Larry Foster asked if the numbers used in calculating the use in this PSA were current numbers or those anticipated at build out. Mr. Vraa responded that the numbers were based on future build out. Pat Connolly, 921 Curry Trail (Lot 1, Block 1) noted that his children were older and perhaps would not be using a playground nearby but shared his concern for the large number of children that live in this area. He continued that there is no safe access to the parks that are currently within this PSA where parents could feel comfortable letting them go to these parks alone. He noted that the concerns of the neighbors should be a high priority as the Commission reviews this issue. Mr. Connolly then pointed out several areas where small parks were provided for neighborhoods that did not have as many people in them as this neighborhood. Lakeside Park and Oak Chase Park were targeted as such parks. Mr. Connolly continued that although there were parks near this neighborhood, the accessibility was poor; he indicated there was no trail to get to Walnut Hill Park nor was there easy access to Trapp Farm Park. The safety of the children in this area was of utmost importance to Mr. Connolly. Pat commented that a bike path along he Highline Trail was to go in three years ago and still was not completed. Jack Johnson asked why the original trail planned along Daniel Drive was eliminated. As Director Vraa began explaining the background of this issue, Pat Connolly interjected that he would clarify the history for the Commission. Mr.Connolly stated that the trail along Daniel Drive was going to move to the south side because that land was zoned other than residential and it was felt this would be a better location for the trail. When the property was re-zoned to residential it was felt that it would be unsafe for a trail to cross several driveways, Mr. Connolly continued. There was a bike path planned to Trapp Farm Park, however, in Mr. Connolly's opinion, it was not a good location because the trail seemed to just terminate on the hill near Trapp Farm Park. He also stated that the incline was such that it would be very difficult for pedestrians to use a stroller on this section of trail. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 5, 1992 Meeting Page 4 Steve Sullivan clarified that the intent of having a trail along Daniel Drive was because of it's natural north/south route making the distance from Curry Trail to Trapp Farm Park a distance of .4 miles. Steve added that staff's intention is to provide the most efficient transportation for neighborhoods to parks with a strong concern for safety. It was felt that the trail along Daniel Drive was the safest option at the time. Homeowner of 913 Curry Trail noted that this will be a very heavily developed area. He continued that he understands the financial impact to the city in holding these lots but expressed his preference for leaving the area just as it is. He felt that developing more homes in this location seemed like overkill. He suggested that the city consider leaving the property as it is and allow the residents to maintain it; something similar to "adopting" the park. Mr. Vraa responded that this has been done in the past and may be a consideration. Marsha Schoemaker who lives at the intersection of Braddock and Daniel Drive indicated that she has three children and provides day care service to other children. She continued that she does not feel comfortable sending children to either Walnut Hill Park or Trapp Farm Park without going along. She would prefer a park closer to the neighborhood to allow children to go to the park without their parents. Jack Johnson asked if there had been any consideration given to providing an overpass to Northview School during the upgrading of County Road 30. Ken Vraa responded that that had not been a consideration; rather, thought was being given to the semaphore on Braddock and Diffley. Ms. Schoemaker indicated that even if there was an easier access to Northview School she didn't think that using the playground during the school day was allowed and she would still not be comfortable allowing children to cross Diffley at that point. Pat Connolly reiterated that this is the only area of this size that doesn't have direct access to a park and the City needs to look at what's best for this neighborhood. Jack Johnson explained that there will be access to parks once the trail links are completed in this area. Ryan Neese, 4224 Daniel Drive indicated that he has been in the neighborhood for only two months. He continued that one of the factors in purchasing their home was the wooded area directly across from them and they would like to see that maintained as it is. He also asked if it was feasible to place a trail completely around the pond. Mr. Vraa responded that a trail of this type could be done, however there would be substantial tree loss in order to accommodate that request. Since expenditure of dollars seemed to be an issue, Mr. Connolly asked what the cost was for the development of Oak Chase Park and Lakeside Park. Mr. Vraa responded that in order to give a more current cost figure perhaps the park near Manor Lake would be a more accurate comparison at this time. Ken continued that the Manor Lake park site is approximately five acres in size and consists of open space that has been graded with 3/4 acre of wetland. The park was graded as part of an agreement with the developer as a cost savings measure. Ken added that the cost of the land, parking lot, playground, ballfield and hard court was approximately $130,000. Mr. Connolly again reiterated that their neighborhood area will be larger at build out than the Manor Lake area and felt that $42-48,000 would not be an outrageous price to pay for park improvements. Mr. Vraa clarified that the $42-48,000 amount reflected only the costs for improvement to the land but did not include the cost of the land and the assessments that had to be paid. When asked what that figure was, Mr. Vraa responded that it was $19,000/acre or approximately $138-140,000 plus the assessments on the property. In response to comments from Mr. Connolly, Jack Johnson explained that the Commission's job is to try to determine what the best use for this residual property will be and make a recommendation to the City Council. Mr. Johnson added that the existing Park System Plan does not call for a park in this area. An issue that will need to be weighed is setting a precedent by providing a park in response to a request from a neighborhood where one was normally not planned. Jack continued that the Commission's task is to provide for parks throughout the City in a very planned manner to meet the needs of the whole community as well as the neighborhoods. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 5, 1992 Meeting Page 5 Tish Wetstone, 917 Curry Trail, noting that she was new in the area, asked what happened to the dollars that were collected by the developer that were originally dedicated for trails. Steve Sullivan responded that any dollars collected for trails dedication fees are placed in the trails dedication fund and are used to enhance the trail system throughout the City. Ms. Wetstone expressed her concern for the safety of pedestrians and bikers along Daniel Drive because it is a very busy street. She suggested that consideration be given to placing a white line on the street. Director Vraa stated he would check with the City Engineer and suggested that the residents follow up with Tom Colbert, Director of Public Works to see if this option would be feasible. Mr. Joe Heubner, noting there was significant interest by the neighborhood to have this park, suggested that they be allowed to help with the maintenance or upkeep if a park is developed. Dan Mooradian asked what impact not selling these lots would have on the development of already existing parks and those that are planned to be built in the next several years. Mr. Vraa responded that this particular parcel of land was purchased from the Park Site Fund which can only be used for park acquisition or development. Since approximately $150,000 was taken from this fund to purchase these lots, there is that much less in the fund for development of parks. The question that needs to be addressed, Mr. Vraa continued, is the importance of this issue in relationship to the C.I.P. and if it is determined that this is a park to be developed, than direction will need to be given as to the time frame and the dollars that will be expended. Ted Billy clarified that the City was required to purchase this tract of land , along with other small tracts,as a condition for purchasing the Lexington/Diffley site. Jonathan Widem asked what the intention was for this land at the time it was purchased. Mr. Vraa responded that the Council directed the re-sale of this land and wanted it downzoned from R-4 to R-1, which did occur. Mr. Mooradian asked how often the City has purchased property that it did not intend to use and Mr. Vraa responded this is the first time he has seen this occur since he has been with the City of Eagan. Kevin Knight reiterated that this is a very unique situation since the development of a park in this area is not currently in the Park System Plan. Kevin continued that since there are a significant number of trees on these lots he would like to see as many trees kept as possible. There is a fair amount of parkland within this PSA, however, Mr. Knight agreed that perhaps a modest playground or play area would be appropriate. His suggestion was that the two closest lots to Curry be used for play area and/or hard court and that the balance of the lots along Daniel Drive be sold. Mr. Johnson asked if a park could be placed on two lots. Mr. Sullivan responded that it would be tight but it may be possible. Kevin Knight reiterated that he would prefer to see the trees on the eastern most lot be kept. Pat Connolly interjected that three lots would provide a better buffer to the existing neighbors on Curry Trail. Jack Johnson asked Mr.Sullivan if he would be able to estimate how many trees would need to be removed to accommodate a playground on two lots. Steve responded that he would need to look at some options but trees would need to be removed. Dan Mooradian indicated his biggest concern is the eastern most lot on Daniel Drive that butts up to Lots 1 and 2 since it appears to be the most valuable lot. It is the lot that will bring the most revenue because it is wooded but selling it would eliminate any buffer from the immediately adjacent lots along Curry Trail. Mr. Connolly again interjected that ideally, the neighbors would like to have that lot left as it is. Erin Ipsen expressed her concern for the precedent this decision can set. She continued that the Commission's responsibility is to look at the City as a whole and if this request is approved there will be many more neighborhoods with similar circumstances that will be requesting a park closer to their home. Jack Johnson added that this long-range issue may be best discussed as the Parks System Plan is being upgraded. It's possible, Mr. Johnson continued, that one of the things that could be discovered in the process is the need for mini parks just as is being discussed at this site. Erin suggested that if the Commission was going to pursue a park at this site that two lots be set aside, that the Parks System Plan be updated and if it is determined that a park should not go into this location, then the lots can be sold. Dan Mooradian added that if lots were set aside, he would not be in favor of developing them at this time. Another point brought up by Ms. Ipsen was which park will wait for development to occur in order to accommodate this new addition to parks. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 5,1992 Meeting Page 6 After further discussion, Jonathan Widem moved that the top five lots , from Diffley to Curry Trail, be sold for development and that the three lots on Daniel Drive closest to Curry Trail be held for eventual development of a mini-park. Ted Billy stated that the lots could be sold as suggested but questioned if the City would be any richer. He suggested leaving the parcel as it is and if at some point in the future it becomes necessary to sell them, a decision can be made at that time. Again Ted reiterated wanting to leave the land as it is in its natural condition. Kevin Knight stated he agreed with Mr. Widem's motion and agreed that most all objectives can be met by keeping 2-3 lots. He continued that there should be some flexibility in determining whether 2 or 3 lots are needed to provide the playground area discussed. Director Vraa suggested that the Commission may want to look at some possible layouts to see if other lots may be more appropriate for a park. Jonathan Widem suggested maintaining the eastern most lot for tree preservation and consider open space and play area being installed on the two lots west. Steve Sullivan reminded the Commission that there area number of parameters to look at when designing a park; one being that a small playground/open play area may result in the neighborhood using the park for a very limited amount of time and then will find the need for more facilities that are already within their PSA. Steve suggested that the Commission may want to look long term at providing better access to the parks to the south . After further discussion, there was no second to Mr. Widem's motion. Kevin Knight then moved and Jonathan Widem seconded the motion to have staff develop a plan for a park to include playground and hard court surface to be located within the lots owned by the City of Eagan from Diffley Road to Curry Trail and that the balance of the lots be sold for development. The number of lots and location of lots has not been determined as yet and will be dependent upon the park design. Those voting in favor included Erin Ipsen, Jack Johnson, Jonathan Widem, Dan Mooradian and Kevin Knight. Ted Billy was opposed. The motion was carried. Ryan Neese added that he was in favor of leaving the area in a natural state. He would not be opposed, however to selling the three western most lots for development and leaving the balance for park. Director Vraa added that the residents had also requested consideration be given to providing a trail corridor on the north side of the pond, parallel to Diffley Road. Ken indicated that two options had been discussed; one was a loop trail that would bring traffic into the wooded area north of the pond and then back to the trail on Diffley and the other option was a spur trail that would allow walkers to enter the wooded area, overlook the pond and then walk back to Diffley Road. In response to a question from Kevin Knight regarding the cost for such a trail, Mr. Vraa responded that a loop trail of 250-300 feet would be approximately $2,500- 3,000. After further discussion, Jonathan Widem moved, Ted Billy seconded the motion with all members voting in favor to recommend the construction of a spur trail that will leave Diffley Road north of the pond and terminate just north of the pond. PARK SERVICE AREA 36E Director Vraa introduced this item reminding the Commission they had made a recommendation to the City Council in February of 1992 that the City seek parkland in the south 1/2 of Park Service Area 36E. The City Council subsequently approved that recommendation and instructed staff to begin the search fora park in that area. Ken identified two parcels as potential park sites; one owned by Mr. Jay Carroll and one owned by Mr. Neary. Mr. Carroll's property is 6 acres in size whereas Mr. Neary's property is 19 acres including his home. Mr. Vraa continued that there is no immediate need to acquire a park given the relatively undeveloped characteristics and lack of service population at this time although this would not preclude the Commission from being proactive in reviewing the need and location of a park for the future. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 5, 1992 Meeting Page 7 In reviewing Mr. Carroll's 6 acre parcel Mr.Vraa noted that access is via a private road not a public street which should be considered when thinking about its development as a public park. Another concern expressed was the potential for acquiring land that may be landlocked which is the case with the Neary property. Mr. Vraa reviewed some of the options for the Commission to consider which included acquiring Mr. Carroll's land; obtaining the back (south) portion of Mr. Neary's land; wait for development to occur and acquire land by dedication; look for the most appropriate parcel of land and acquire through condemnation if necessary; conclude that parkland is not an absolute necessity and not propose park acquisition at this time or whatever other option the Commission may determine is appropriate. Jack Johnson asked if the area south of the parcels being considered will be developed. Mr. Vraa responded that the assumption has been made that development will occur at some point in time but the timeframe is unknown. Ted Billy remembered there had been some conversation with Inver Grove Heights regarding the option of developing a shared park in this general area. Mr. Vraa responded that Inver Grove Heights is not interested in pursuing that option. Mr. Johnson stated that if there is a need for a park in this area he would favor waiting for development to occur and acquire parkland in the southern portion of the PSA through dedication . After further discussion Ted Billy moved, Dan Mooradian seconded with all members voting in favor to have staff identify suitable parcels of property that would be appropriate for a park so that when development occurs within PSA 36E necessary steps can be taken to acquire the property necessary to meet this need. PARK NAMING Park Naming was deferred to the December, 1992 meeting. PARKS/TRAILS DEDICATION REVIEW Director Vraa introduced this item as the Commission's annual review of the parks dedication and trails dedication after which the Commission makes a recommendation to the City Council. Mr. Vraa reviewed the history of dedication fees from 1989 through 1992 noting that the fees for 1992 remained consistent with 1991. As a point of clarification, Mr. Vraa noted that individual cash dedication fees are based on "land value equivalence", i.e. the land value determined by the Commission each year for each different category of land use. Also provided for background was a survey completed in 1991 of several metropolitan communities relative to their perception in regard to area-wide land values and adjustments they may be planning between 1992-93. Ken continued that since there does not appear to be a wide-spread escalation of land values in the metro area that land values should be determined by an appraiser for next year's review of parks/trails dedication. Kevin Knight asked what the cost would be to hire an appraiser and wondered if the work could be done this year to help with the Commission's recommendation to the Council. Mr. Vraa responded that the cost will depend upon how much detail is required and felt that there wasn't sufficient time to have appraisals done before a recommendation is needed by the Council. Jack Johnson and Ted Billy both expressed their concern for making a land value decision without sufficient background. Ted Billy moved and Erin Ipsen seconded the motion to freeze rates for 1993 and hire an appraiser/consultant to review and analyze land values for review of the 1994 parks/trails dedication fees. Those voting for the motion were Erin Ipsen, Jack Johnson and Ted Billy. Those opposed were Jonathan Widem, Dan Mooradian and Kevin Knight. The motion did not pass. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 5,1992 Meeting Page 8 Kevin Knight noted that parks/trails dedication is the department's major source of funds and he was not comfortable waiting until next year for appraisals and losing potential 1993 revenue. Kevin felt that the opportunity to capitalize on dedication fees will soon be gone as the City's development slows down. Jonathan Widem asked if an increase could be imposed in 1994 to make up for a freeze in 1993 rates since the rates are tied to land values. Mr. Vraa reminded the Commission that any increase would need to be substantiated as a "reasonable increase". This would eliminate the possibility of increasing 1994 rates to compensate for no rate increase in 1993. Mr. Widem suggested averaging the numbers over the last four years to calculate an average increase in land values as a basis for the 1993 rates. Jack Johnson expressed his concern for being able to justify such a calculated increase. Mr. Widem reiterated his agreement with Mr. Knight in not wanting to miss out on an opportunity to collect potential revenue. Jack Johnson indicated his discomfort with coming up with a land value amount that may be difficult to substantiate. He indicated his desire to maintain information that is as accurate as possible in setting fees. Ken Vraa added that the Commission can also use current assessed values which should be 95% of their market value if they indeed wanted to make a recommendation for increase. Mr. VonDeLinde reminded the Commission that the land value amounts will impact water quality fees also which may result in further scrutiny from developers. After further discussion Jonathan Widem moved, Kevin Knight seconded with all members voting in favor to direct staff to get current assessments of land values on several parcels of land to help with the determination of 1993 fees and that a appraiser be hired to do an appraisal of land for the determination of 1994 parks/trails dedication fees. PROPOSED 1993 FEES AND CHARGES Director Vraa briefly reviewed the memo prepared by him and Superintendent of Recreation Peterson regarding fees and charges for facility use. Staff felt that the fees charged in 1992 should be carried over into 1993 with no proposed increases, however suggestions were made to consider new fees for youth travel soccer and youth travel hockey similar to those imposed on youth travel baseball. Another issue for the Commission to consider was the running of concessions by the City for adult outside tournaments held at Northview Athletic along with charging a minimum of $100/day for use of the concession room by youth baseball and softball tournaments held at that site. After further discussion, Ted Billy moved and Dan Mooradian seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend the 1993 facility use fees remain the same as in 1992. Further that travel soccer be assessed a fee of $60.00 per team similar to the fees currently assessed to travel softball and baseball. Travel hockey will be assessed a fee of $60.00 per team effective with their 1993-94 season. The City will run the concessions for adult outside tournaments held at Northview Athletic and will also charge youth sports tournaments run at Northview Athletic a minimum of $100.00/day for use of the concession room. CIP Director Vraa introduced this item noting that staff had prepared a draft CIP document for submission to the Commission and then to the City Council which covers the time frame of 1993-1997. Ken continued that since this is a draft document, it becomes more of a planning document than a budgetary document. If funds are not available for the items contained within the CIP, those items will be pushed back further into future years, get eliminated or a method of increased revenue will need to be found to complete the work. Mr. Vraa also mentioned that the CIP does not include maintenance, major capital improvements or building/structure replacement. Jonathan Widem commented that the City will need to be looking a large dollar expenditures for long term maintenance and replacement of the parks that are currently developed. Jonathan continued that it is difficult to thoroughly review the CIP without benefit of an updated Parks System Plan noting that that may become a very valuable tool in looking at this issue next year. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 5,1992 Meeting Page 9 After further discussion, Jack Johnson moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the CIP as presented. ISTEA GRANT APPLICATION/POLICY ON TRAILWAYS Superintendent of Parks VonDeLinde explained that this ISTEA grant funding for municipal trails expansion has been presented to the City Council on September 20; before there was an opportunity to review it with the Commission since the submittal deadline for the grant application was November 2. John continued that this is an application for federal grant funding for the expansion of certain trailways within the City of Eagan. The city will be seeking funds under the Federal Intermodal Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) for the construction of four new trails in the community. The total cost of the project is estimated at $478,700 of which 80% would be cost shared through the ISTEA grant. John added that since the City Council has already given their approval for submission of the application and authorized the corresponding changes to the trail system plan, it would be appropriate for the Commission to retroactively ratify the recommendations contained along with identifying priorities for the trail links. After further discussion, Ted Billy moved to approve an application to the Metropolitan Council for Federal cost sharing of trail expansion under the ISTEA Program and that approval be given to modify the existing Trail Systems Plan to include the development of trails along State Highway 149 and Town Centre Drive as identified. The Commission clarified that of the trails proposed, the first priority was to provide access to the Minnesota River Valley; the second priority was identified as trails along Hwy. 149 connecting to the proposed YMCA site; the third priority was access to the Town Centre area and the fourth priority was the trails connection between Walnut Hill and Trapp Farm Parks. PARK SYSTEM PLAN STUDY Director Vraa, noting that the Commission had recently held a workshop session relative to the Park Systems Plan, explained that it would be appropriate that they determine if a recommendation should be made to the City Council to update a new Park Systems Plan which would update necessary components of the existing plan. After further discussion, Ted Billy moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend to the City Council that a major revision to the existing Park Systems Plan be undertaken and that the financing for this plan come from the park site development fund. Further, the Commission, in seeking approval to develop a systems plan, recognized the need for the Commission to develop a scope of services for the consultant before Requests for Proposals are solicited. BLACKHAWK PARK UPDATE/BLACKHAWK PARK DESIGN MODIFICATION Stephen Sullivan noted that the recent snowfall has slowed up the completion of Blackhawk Park. He did note that the rough grading has been done, some of the topsoil is in, the parking lot has rock on it, the trail corridors have been graded and the boardwalk is in place. Steve was hopeful that with a thaw the curb could be installed yet this year. Mr. Sullivan continued with the proposed construction modifications to enhance the management of Blackhawk Lake. It was noted that slight grading modifications on either side of the south boardwalk abutment would provide accesses to both the east and west basins of the lake for weed harvesters and other aquatic management equipment. These accesses would provide more options to implement in-lake management measures and would limit the disturbance needed to create these features in one area immediately around the boardwalk. It is estimated that the cost will not exceed $4,000 and will be covered by ear-marked water quality improvement funds. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 5, 1992 Meeting Page 10 After further discussion, Jack Johnson moved, Dan Mooradian seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the proposed construction modifications which include slight grading modifications on either side of the south boardwalk abutment to provide accesses to both the east and west basins of Blackhawk Lake for weed harvesters and other aquatic management equipment. The estimated cost of the work is not expected to exceed $4,000 and would be covered by water quality improvement funds. MINNESOTA RELIEF GRANT PROJECT/LEXINGTON SQUARE Superintendent of Parks VonDeLinde introduced a grant which would provide for the development of a Forestry Department pilot program to use excelerated growth technology in a controlled area to enhance tree conservation. It was determined that the Lexington Square neighborhood (near Lexington and Wescott) which has 370 households would provide a good study area for this project. Two seedlings would be planted in each of the 370 yards and would be covered by a white tube which is used to excelerate growth of the trees. The tube is biodegradable and will disappear as the tree continues to grow and mature. The excelerated growth process occurs until the seedling reaches the top of the tube after which normal growth continues. Director Vraa added that several various options were considered for distribution of this planting program, however it was felt that the Lexington Square development was the most conducive to this type of project and could be monitored/managed very easily. Jack Johnson expressed the Commission's approval of the project and looks forward to hearing updates on how this project is progressing. DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS Items highlighted by Superintendent of Recreation Peterson included a program opportunity to create relationships between Northview Elementary students and Eagan Seniors; the first Eagan Seniors meeting will be held at the senior housing community room in November; the new cash management system through LOGIS which will mainstream the department's handling of registration receipts and Dakota Civic Theatre's first production which will occur on November 20. Also highlighted was the attendance of more than 700 youth and 300 adults at the Halloween Spook Trail at Thomas Lake Park. JOINT COMMISSION/COUNCIL MEETING Director Vraa reminded the Commission that a joint Commission/Council meeting has been scheduled for November 10 at 6 p.m. at the Municipal Center. The anticipated time frame is 1-1.5 hours with the items for discussion to include Forestry Department/Oak Wilt and Parks System Plan update. When asked if there were other issues that may need to be addressed Mr. Johnson responded that erosion control could also be addressed. Mr. Widem suggested that the Commission should stay focused on the Parks System Plan for this joint meeting and move onto erosion control at a later meeting with the Council. REQUEST AND PROPOSAL FROM DAKOTA, INC. John VonDeLinde explained that a letter had been received from Dakota, Inc. requesting their use of Quarry Park shelter building from November 23 through December 23, 1992. The request is based on a need to find temporary space to carry out their programming while remodeling of their Apple Valley site is occurring. The use would be Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and they would keep the building in good condition by doing daily light maintenance followed by a deep clean when they are finished using the building. After further discussion, Kevin Knight moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to allow the use of Quarry Park shelter building by Dakota, Inc. from November 23 through December 23, 1992. In return, Dakota, Inc. will maintain the building in good condition and will accomplish a deep clean upon completion of their use. If the building is to be used for recreation programming before December 23, Dakota, Inc. will be notified immediately. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 5, 1992 Meeting Page 11 With no further business to conduct, Dan Mooradian moved, Erin Ipsen seconded with all members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 p.m. Secretary Date