02/04/1993 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
FEBRUARY 4, 1993
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called to
order at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 4, 1993 with the following Commission members present: Erin
lpsen-Borgersen, Jonathan Widem, Lee Markell, Deborah Johnson and Dan Mooradian. Commission Members
not present included Ted Billy, Kevin Knight and Jack Johnson. 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 Quality Coordinator,Tom Schuster,
City Forester; Paula Nowariak, Recreation Supervisor; Dan Schultz, Intern and Cherryl Mesko,Secretary.
AGENDA
Director Vraa noted that there were three miscellaneous items to be included under Other Business
and Reports. Erin Ipsen-Borgersen moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to
accept the agenda as amended.
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF JANUARY 7, 1993
Dan Mooradian moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the
minutes of January 7, 1993- 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, Lee Markell moved,Erin Ipsen-Borgersen
seconded the motion to make the following park/trail dedication recommendationsto the City Council regarding
Oak Cliff Pond 2nd Addition. All members voted in favor.
1. Oak Cliff Pond 2nd Addition. It was noted that the parks dedication requirement has been
fulfilled in accordance with the Winkler Jackson Planned Development. The Planned
Development Agreement is specific to the developers responsibility to install a bituminoustrail
along the east side of Slater Road from Cliff Road to Slater Acres Park. Therefore, the parcel's
location west of Slater Road is not responsible for trail construction or a cash trails dedication.
The developer is responsible for submitting a tree protection plan for City review and approval
prior to final plat.
Erin Ipsen-Borgersen moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to make the
following water quality dedication recommendations to the City Council regarding Oak Cliff Pond 2nd
Addition.
1. Oak Cliff Pond 2nd Addition. The proposed development be required to provide a pond on
site to treat stormwater runoff from the southern portion of the site. The treatment pond
design should be subject to staff approval and have a wet pond volume of at least. 7 acre-feet
and a minimum average depth of 3 feet. A sump should be excavated just off the flared end
of the storm sewer entering Pond AP-10 from the North. Finally, filling or draining of Pond
AP-10 or the adjacent wetland is prohibited.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 4,1993 meeting
Page 2
PONDVIEW TOWNHOMES - GOOD VALUE HOMES
Parks Planner Sullivan introduced this item noting that the parcel is within Parks Service Area #21
which is currently not served with a public park. With the platting of Deerwood Middle School the
Commission reviewed the parkland need within this PSA and recommended that the need be determined once
the land use was designated for the 80 acre parcel of land located at Diffley and 35E. The Commission further
commented that the updating of the Comprehensive Parks System Plan may also provide the needed evaluation
for PSA #21.
Steve noted that the vegetative cover of the site is primarily small, secondary growth covering a
majority of the parcel. The larger boxelders and elms that line the western pond edge are proposed to be
preserved with development. The plans propose the removal of a 48" cottonwood tree on the northwest corner
of the site and Steve suggested that some thought be given to preserving this tree.
The final issue Mr. Sullivan reviewed was relative to the City Code provision for Recreation Open
Space within all multiple family developments. Based on the City Code requirements, the 32 proposed units
would equate to 6800 square feet of recreation open space required for this plat. Steve added that there is
adequate green space adjacent to the unit central to the site to accommodate the open space required.
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch reviewed the water quality requirements as well as the wetland
protection issues relative to this proposal. Rich noted that the proposed development is located in drainage
basin J with the runoff from the development being discharged to pond JP-3, a 10 acre wetland classified as
a sediment basin directly connected with Fish Lake.
Relative to wetland impact, Mr. Brasch noted that adjacent to the DNR protected wetland is a fringe
wetland which was delineated throughout the development site by a consultant hired by the developer. The
developer proposed to fill approximately 230 square feet of this fringe wetland to allow placement of two
townhouse units in the northern portion of the site between the noise reduction berm along Highway 35E on
the west and the wetland on the east side. The developer has indicated that failure to fill this area would result
in the loss of four building units and a loss of approximately $400,000 in revenue. Rich continued that the
mitigation area proposed would be excavated to the elevation of the existing wetland fringe to create a substrate
and gradient that would allow sedges in the fringe to expand. It was also noted that the replacement would
be supervised by a qualified contractor.
A representative of Good Value Homes addressed the Commission noting that they agree with Steve
and Rich's review of the issues as well as their recommendations. He did note, however, that it may be
difficult to preserve the cottonwood tree as requested but the developer would make every effort to try to
accommodate that request as well.
After further discussion, Dan Mooradian moved, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen seconded with all members
voting in favor to make the following parks/trails dedication recommendations to the City Council:
1. The proposal be subject to a cash parks dedication.
2. The proposal be subject to a cash trails dedication.
3. The developer revise the grades adjacent to the central unit providing a minimum of 6800
square feet of flat recreation open space.
4. The developer provide staff with a tree protection plan prior to final plat which locates fencing
to protect significant trees during the construction time frame.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 4,1993 Meeting
Page 3
5. The site plan preserve the trees adjacent to the single family home providing the area a buffer
between the adjacent differing land uses.
6. The site plan preserve the trees adjacent to the pond.
7. The developer attempt to preserve the 48' cottonwood once the site plan is changed.
Jonathan Widem moved, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen seconded with all members voting in favor to make the
following water quality/wetland dedication recommendations to the City Council:
1. The proposed development be required to provide a cash dedication in lieu of on-site ponding
to meet water quality treatment requirements.
2. Excavated sumps of at least 80 cubic yards should be created at the end of each storm water
pipe entering the wetland from the development.
3. The cash dedication will be reduced commensurately to provide a credit for the area and
volume of these sumps.
4. Because of the small area of fill proposed and the steps that the developer has taken to
minimize filling, the proposed wetland replacement plan should be approved as proposed.
DEERHAWK ADDITION - DAKOTA COUNTY STATE BANK
Parks Planner Sullivan introduced this item as an application requesting the preliminary plat of six
single family lots on 2.42 acres locate south of Deerwood Drive and east of Blackhawk Drive. Steve continued
that the Commission has reviewed this proposal previously and recommended a cash parks and trails
dedication, however there are some water quality issues that remain to be reviewed by the Commission.
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch explained that the Commission previously reviewed this
development in September, 1992 when the developer was proposing to subdivide the parcel into five lots
instead of six, as is now proposed. The Commission previously recommended a cash dedication to satisfy
water quality which should be adjusted upward slightly to account for the increased impervious area associated
with the addition of an extra lot.
Relative to the wetland issues, Rich continued that the Commission authorized filling of up to 1500 feet
of a wetland on the site,provided the filled wetland area was replaced on the site at a ratio of at least 1:1 to
meet the requirements of the state Wetlands conservation Act. This was recommended to avoid destruction
of a number of mature oak trees toward the rear of Lot 3, which would have occurred if the house pad had
been moved to completely avoid wetlands impacts. The recommendation was also predicated on the existence
of adequate space in the northwest corner of the site to expand the existing wetland to the west to meet
replacement requirements.
Rich continued that field reconnaissance of the site by City staff indicated that the wetland on the site
maybe significantly larger than the one designated on the original site plan. With this change, Rich indicated
there is some question whether there will be adequate space on the site to replace the filled wetland area
without impacting the current site plan.
Gary Fuchs, representing Dakota County State Bank noted that they are in agreement with staff's
recommendations and understand the need to identify the exact size of the wetland so that they can proceed
with this project.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 4,1993 Meeting
Page 4
Lee Markell asked if the wetland could be made to look more natural rather than trying to "jam" it into
the corner of the site. Mr. Fuchs asked that the Commission consider giving Rich Brasch the discretionary
option to determine the shape of the wetland in working with the owner of this site. Mr. Fuchs also asked the
Commission to consider increasing the wetland fill area from 1500 to 2800 square feet. As a point of
clarification, Mr. Brasch noted that a site is exempt from the Wetlands Conservation Act if the wetland is a
result of a public improvement project as was the case with Blackhawk and Deerwood Roads
After further discussion Erin Ipsen-Borgersen moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members
voting in favor to make the following parks/trails recommendations to the City Council:
1. The proposal be subject to a cash parks dedication.
2. The proposal be subject to a cash trails dedication.
Erin Ipsen-Borgersen moved, Dan Mooradian seconded with all members voting in favor to make the
following water quality/wetland recommendations to the City Council:
1. Authorize the proponent to fill up to 2800 square feet of the wetland contingent on submission
and approval of the delineation findings and a replacement plan after preliminary plat but
prior to approval of the final plat. The actual configuration of the wetland is to be worked out
between the proponent and Mr. Brasch.
LEXINGTON SQUARE "RELEAF" GRANT PROJECT
Director Vraa introduced this item as an update on the status of the Minnesota Releaf Grant recently
awarded to the City by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The $4,000 grant is intended to fund
an innovative project of tree planting for energy conservation on a neighborhood level basis.
Parks Superintendent VonDeLinde reiterated that the Lexington Square subdivision had been selected
for this project and under the provisions of the grant each homeowner in Lexington Square will be asked to
plant two tree seedlings, along with Tubex tree shelters in strategic locations in their yard to promote energy
conservation. The seedlings and tree shelters will be provided free to the homeowners. It is expected that a
preliminary mailing to the Lexington Square neighborhood will occur on February 1st describing the benefits
of tree planting and energy conservation along with an overview of the Minnesota Releaf Program. A follow
up mailing is expected to reach homeowners by March 15th spelling out the steps for individual participation
in this project. Residents will be asked to fill out the sketch sheet showing the proposed planting site and
species in relation to the placement of the house on the lot and return that sketch to the Forestry Division by
April 1st. The third letter will then be sent, once planting stock is available, providing residents with planting
and tree care instruction and informing them when and where their trees and Tubex shelters can be picked up.
Following the planting process, City Forester Schuster noted that the growth of these trees will be
monitored to determine the effectiveness of this reforestation project. It is expected that after 3-4 years there
will be sufficient data to report back to the Department of Natural Resources.
Lee Markell complimented staff on the excellent job they've done in empowering citizens in a project
of this magnitude. Lee asked if other cities were participating in a program such as this. Tom Schuster
responded that this was one of the first of it's kind and fits very well into the guidelines of the Minnesota Releaf
Program which is geared primarily toward energy conservation.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 4, 1993 Meeting
Page 5
John VonDeLinde concluded that there are 370 households in the Lexington Square addition and there
are enough trees to provide two per household. Staff is hoping for a high percentage of participation.
PARK NAMING
Director Vraa asked that this item be deferred to the March Commission meeting.
GOLF DRIVING RANGE UPDATE
Director Vraa explained that the City Council has reviewed this request and has asked staff to continue
with the process of working out an agreement with Mr. Kuchera and Mr. Helgeson regarding the use of
Lexington/Diffley for a golf driving range. Ken continued that one of the issues that remain is access to the site
which will need to be worked out.
Director Vraa noted that electrical service can be brought in from the U.S. West building but the water
line for irrigation needs to be resolved. Ken concluded that the Council appreciated the Commission's input.
STRUCTURING THE ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION
AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that the City Council had postponed appointing new
Commission members pending the discussion by the Commission as to the feasibility of restructuring this body.
Ken explained that there were a large number of applicants who has expressed an interest in serving on the
Advisory Commission and the Council was attempting to determine how best to use the resources of the
individuals who had applied.
Ken outlined some options the Commission may want to consider including 1) leaving the Commission
as it currently exists; 2) expanding the Commission to a greater number; 3) restructuring the Commission duties
and provide for two separate and distinct commissions-Parks and Recreation and Natural Resources; 4)
restructuring the Advisory Commission to include a sub-committee of non-Advisory Parks and Recreation
Commission members with the sole purpose of reviewing environmental issues.
DirectorVraa reviewed with the Commission the background resulting in the Commission's name being
changed from Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission to Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources
Commission. He also included the Mission Statement drafted by George Kubik in 1990 relative to the issues
that would be discussed by the Advisory Commission concerning the preservation and enhancement of the
natural resources of the City of Eagan. The Mission Statement was approved by the Advisory Commission and
later referenced when the City Council was asked to consider renaming the Commission which they did. Ken
continued that the City Council is now asking for input from the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural
Resources Commission as to how they would like to see the Commission proceed.
Lee Markel) thanked Ken for the thorough job in defining the background and options for the
Commission to consider. Dan Mooradian added that the memorandums and Mission Statement clearly outline
the important issues at hand. Dan continued that his personal sense was that by splitting the commission into
two separate entities the level of discussion on a single issue would multiply drastically. He added that another
commission would add yet another layer for developers to get through before proceeding to the City Council.
Mr. Mooradian expressed his support for increasing the number of Commission members feeling that this option
would allow for more community involvement while maintaining the continuity of the overlapping issues that
are addressed by the current Commission.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 4,1993 Meeting
Page 6
Jonathan Widem concurred with Mr. Mooradian's comments adding that the issues addressed by the
Commission are so closely inter-related that it would be difficult to separate parks and recreation issues from
natural resources issues. Jonathan continued that since there is such a good working relationship with
developersthat adding another layerof commission review seemed unnecessary. Mr. Widem did acknowledge,
however, the importance of utilizing the expertise of those residents who have expressed an interest in the
APRNRC. Mr.Widem suggested expanding the Commission to 10 members.
Erin lpsen-Borgersen indicated she first thought the addition of a sub-committee of non-Advisory
Commission members would be the best option to include more people in the discussion process, however she
indicated she is leaning more toward increasing the number of participants on the Commission to ten.
Deborah Johnson expressed her concern for adding too many people either through expansion of the
size of the Commission or additional sub-committee members because of the potential for "over discussing"
issues. She cautioned that by adding too many people, the Commission could find itself in a situation where
issues got "bogged down' with discussion making it difficult to make decisions in a timely fashion.
Dan Mooradian reiterated his suggestion to add Commission members in an attempt to ensure that
there would be enough participating members at all times to conduct business. Erin Ipsen-Borgersen added
the importance of having a quorum at all meetings in order to effectively resolve the issues this Commission
has been given charge of.
Lee Markell suggested that consideration be given to both adding Commission Members and
empowering citizens by inviting them to participate on subcommittees. Dan thought this may be a workable
compromise to which Erin agreed. Lee continued that a 'grass roots" approach to including those citizens who
had expressed an interest in participating would be beneficial in the long run.
After further discussion, Jonathan Widem moved, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen seconded with all members
voting in favor to recommend to the City Council that the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources
Commission be increased to eight (8) members and one (1) alternate and that a Citizen's Sub-committee of up
to 5 members be appointed to aid the Commission on issues it deems appropriate.
Director Vraa reiterated that this was the largest number of people to apply for the Advisory Parks,
Recreation and Natural Resources Commission and the Council wanted to see if there was a way in which to
include all the areas of expertise represented by these individuals. Dan Mooradian suggested that input could
be solicited from those interested individuals to determine what their interests are and to see how the
Commission can use their expertise.
SCOPE OF SERVICES - PARK SYSTEM PLAN UPDATE
Director Vraa introduced this item as the Scope of Services that will be sent to consultants regarding
the update of the Park System Plan. The procedure that is anticipated includes the Scope of Services being
sent, a follow-up proposer's meeting for interested bidders, written responses reviewed, interviews,
recommendation to the City Council and the hiring of a consultant. Ken continued that he wanted the
Commission to be aware of how extensive this project will be. He also added that there is no budget at this
time but it is anticipated that the project may be bid in the $40,000-55,000 range.
Lee Markell asked if the Council is obligated to take the low bid. Mr. Vraa responded that the Council
has the option of selecting the consultant they feel is most appropriate for this project. Mr. MarkelI asked if
staff is looking for volunteers for the interview committee and Mr. Vraa responded that this will be addressed
at the March Commission meeting once the new members are in attendance.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 4,1993 Meeting
Page 7
LANDSCAPE, TREE PRESERVATION AND TURF ESTABLISHMENT POLICIES
Superintendent of Parks VonDeLinde introduced this item indicating that a series of changes to the
City's "post-development" landscape and tree maintenance ordinances were recommended by the Commission
in 1990 and adopted by the City Council. These included an updating of the City's shade tree disease
ordinances, the adoption of a new ordinance governing turf establishment and erosion control on newly
developed lots and a new program for allowing the planting of trees within public road right-of-way areas under
a permit system administered by the Forestry Division.
John continued that as a result of the Landscape Committee's work, three draft environmental policies
have been developed. One is new landscaping regulations under Chapter 11 (Land Use Regulations) of the
City Code, another is new regulations governing lawn establishment and maintenance underChapter 10 (Public
Protection) of the City Code and the third is a new tree preservation and replacement policy which is a free
standing policy but not an ordinance. After reviewing some items addressed within the new landscape
ordinance John explained that the ordinance, which was adopted by the Advisory Commission, has also been
ratified by the City Council.
Mr. VonDeLinde then reviewed the proposed Turfgrass Establishment and Maintenance Ordinance
noting that it would be appropriate for the Commission to approve, modify or deny the proposed final draft
before forwarding it on to the City Council.
Tree preservation and replacement policy was the next item reviewed by Mr. VonDeLinde. John
explained that the City does not currently have a specific ordinance, policy or guideline which addresses
standards for the preservation and/or replacement of trees within new developments or building sites. John
added that to date, most tree preservation initiatives have been worked out between developers, builders and
staff through a negotiation process. At this point staff is requesting input from the Commission before
proceeding with the tree preservation and replacement policy.
Erin lpsen-Borgersen asked that Item C -1c be clarified. Dan Mooradian asked if the intention of the
tree replacement policy was to provide an incentive for developers to preserve trees. John responded that that
was the catalyst for this policy. Deborah Johnson asked how often developers do not comply with tree
preservation. Steve Sullivan responded that developers have become more aware of the City's desire for tree
preservation and been more pro-active in this regard. In some instances, Steve continued, developers have
done lot by lot grading which preserves more trees than mass grading. It is hope that this policy will help to
preserve even more trees as well as find an equitable way in which to provide for tree replacement should mass
grading be necessary on a site.
After further discussion, Erin lpsen-Borgersen moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members
voting in favor to recommend to the City Council that the proposed final draft of the Turfgrass Establishment
and Maintenance Ordinance be ratified.
Lee Markell asked if further comments from the Commission could be forwarded to John VonDeLinde
regarding the tree preservation and replacement policy. John indicated the Commission's input would be
appreciated and staff would bring this issue back to them in March or April.
SAND VOLLEYBALL COURTS - GOAT HILL PARK
Director Vraa introduced Recreation Supervisor Paula Nowariak who would be presenting a concept
plan to allow for sand volleyball courts within Goat Hill Park hockey rinks.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 4,1993 Meeting
Page 8
Recreation Supervisor Nowariak explained that due to the popularity of sand volleyball in the
community, staff has looked at the expansion possibilities for this sport. Currently there is not room to expand
at Rahn Athletic because of softball usage, parking limitations and the heave usage by public groups. Staff
looked into adding sand volleyball courts at Northview Athletic but didn't propose this site because the space
that is available would be better used for other amenities for the park. A site at Eagan High was viewed and
determined to betoo small and neighborhood parks in which space might be available lacked sufficient parking
for sand volleyball activity.
After some research it was determined that a viable option would be to place sand volleyball within
an existing hockey rink. It was felt that Goat Hill Park would accommodate groups, picnics, leagues and
casual use for sand volleyball. Paula then reviewed several options that had been designed with cost estimates
for installation. The proposed plan would be to bring in approximately 10-12' of sand which would be
removed in winter to accommodate flooding of the rinks. The removal and use of the sand pre-winter for use
by maintenance for road sanding is being researched as well.
After discussion of the options available, Lee Markell moved, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen seconded with all
members voting in favor to recommend Option D with double courts and no edging in one hockey rink located
in Goat Hill Park
WATER QUALITY UPDATE
Director Vraa indicated that Water Resources Coordinator Brasch would like to have a Watershed
Management member named from the Commission which would meet every other month. Ken suggested that
once the new Commission members are appointed then this appointment could be made.
ADA UPDATE
Superintendent of Recreation Peterson reviewed the status of the City's implementation of ADA
requirements. Dorothy noted that city facilities, including park shelter buildings, parking lots and other
ancillary park elements were evaluated for accessibility in 1992 and a limited numberof barriers were identified
at that time. Part two of the ADA accessibility assessment has also been completed and at issue is barriers
to participation in city programs. As an update of recreation programs Dorothy indicated that a brainstorming
format worked well. Dorothy noted that because of the diverse variety of recreation programs offered through
Parks and Recreation the Office of Revenue Sharing rules require that not all of the City's programs be
accessible, but when viewed in their entirety are accessible and usable by persons with disabilities. This would
constitute affording equal opportunity to persons with disabilities.
MINNESOTA VALLEY TRAIL UPDATE
Superintendent of Recreation Peterson introduced this item as a joint effort of DNR, Minneapolis Park
Board, Mendota Heights and Eagan to discuss trail connections with the repair/replacement of the Mendota
Bridge. Dorothy indicated that meetings had occurred, and will continue to occur, to see how the agencies
involved can tie together with a trail system. There may a possibility that ISTEA grant dollars may become
available for a program such as this which would tie community to community.
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS
Dorothy Peterson shared a video of recreation programs that have occurred during the winter session
to give the Commission an overview of programs and use levels within the parks. The video included
programs such as bandy at the Lexington/Diffley site, mite hockey tournament at Rahn and tubing at Trapp
Farm Park. Ken Vraa noted that the attendance at the skating rinks and tubing hill has been excellent this year.
Adult programs highlighted included the snow softball tournament and boot hockey tournament.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 4,1993 Meeting
Page 9
John VonDelinde acknowledged the anonymous contribution of producing the 1993 Arbor Day poster
for distribution in the elementary schools, in installation of winter lake aeration systems at Fish and Schwanz
Lakes and the fact that Berkley Risk Services is using Trapp Farm Park as a model of an ideal tubing facility
when discussing this facility with other communities wanting to provide this program.
ROUND TABLE
Director Vraa brought the Commission's attention to two letters received by the Department. The first
was a letter requesting the use of a fenced field at Goat Hill Park for the purposes of running/exercising a dog.
Staff responded to Ms. Fredrickson's request indicating that they would not be able to accommodate her
request. The second letter was from Mr. Wayne Huot, Eagan Traveling Soccer, asking that the City consider
initiating a per team fee for field maintenance in 1994 rather than 1993 to allow them time to budget for it.
Ken also commented that a neighborhood meeting regarding the Lexington/Diffley site would be held
on February 18 and invited Commission Members to attend.
Finally, Mr. Vraa addressed the letter of resignation from Steve Sullivan. Ken expressed the
Department's regret in losing Steve but the position he has accepted with Dakota County Parks is a good
opportunity for him. Ken added that Steve will be deeply missed.
Steve addressed the Commission and thanked them for having given him the opportunity to participate
is such a positive nurturing environment. Steve reviewed some of the highlights of his nine years with the City
noting that in that time frame 30 parks had been developed, 6 parks had been acquired,and he has worked
on public contracts totaling over $5,000,000. Steve continued praising the Department's cooperative team
spirit and Ken's leadership that facilitated that type of working environment. Steve thanked the Commission
for their commitment to the Eagan Parks System and their understanding of the value for having a landscape
architect on staff. Although it is difficult to leave, Steve concluded that working for the City of Eagan has been
a wonderful learning/working experience and he felt confident that he was leaving the Parks and Recreation
Department in good hands.
Deborah Johnson commented on the team approach displayed by staff noting that this in a very unique
situation which very few organizations have the luxury of functioning in. She congratulated Ken Vraa for
providing such a positive environment for the department to function in.
Erin Ipsen-Borgersen asked that some further consideration be given to the option of a dog run in Eagan
for those residents who do not have a fenced yard, i.e. townhome/condom in ium residents. Director Vraa stated
staff would research this issue and bring it back before the Commission at a later date with their findings.
With no further business to conduct, Deborah Johnson moved, Dan Mooradian seconded with all
members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:20 p.m.
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Secretary Date