05/06/1993 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
MAY 6, 1993
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called
to order at 7:30 p.m. on May 6, 1993 with the following Commission Members present: David Szott, John
Rudolph, Ted Billy, Jonathan Widem, Frankie Hall, Stephen Thompson and Dan Mooradian. Commission
Members George Kubik, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen, Deborah Johnson and Lee Markell were not present. Staff
present included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; C.). Lilly, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner;
Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; John VonDeLinde, Parks Superintendent; Rich Brasch, Water
Quality Coordinator and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary.
AGENDA
Dan Mooradian moved, Ted Billy seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the agenda as
presented.
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF APRIL 1, 1993
Dan Mooradian moved, Stephen Thompson seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the
minutes of April 1,1993 as presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
Dan Mooradian moved, Stephen Thompson seconded with all members voting in favor to make the
following recommendations to the City Council:
1. WAIVER OF PLAT - RICHARD BERTZ. This proposal would be subject to a cash parks and
cash trails dedication. This development would be subject to a cash water quality dedication.
The vegetation and topography within 25 feet of the OHW would remain undisturbed both
during and after development. The fringe wetland associated with Hay Lake would be
delineated prior to preliminary plat approval and any filling or draining of wetlands on site
would be prohibited.
2. ROUNDS ADDITION - GREGORY & MARILYN ROUNDS. This proposal would be subject
to a cash parks dedication and a cash trails dedication. This proposal would also be subject
to a cash water quality dedication.
3. LAKEWOOD HILLS 2ND ADDITION - JEFFREY A. RUD. This proposal would be subject to
a cash parks dedication and a cash trails dedication. This proposal would also be subject to
a cash water quality dedication.
4. PRETTYMAN HEIGHTS 2ND ADDITION - LOT SPLIT. This proposal would be subject to
a cash parks dedication and a cash trails dedication. This proposal would also be subject to
a cash water quality dedication.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural ResourcesCommission
Minutes of May 6,1993
Page 2
LEXINGTON MEADOWS - CITY OF EAGAN
Director Vraa introduced this item as a preliminary plat, consisting of eight lots on approximately 8.3
acres of R-1 Single Family zoned property located at the intersection of Lexington and Diffley Roads. Mr. Vraa
continued that the land was acquired at the time of the Lexington/Diffley athletic site purchase. HUD required
that the purchase of this smaller parcel of land be a condition to the purchase of the athletic site. At the time
of the purchase it was the intention of the City Council that this smaller parcel would be rezoned from Multiple
Family to Single Family and then sold to recover the cost of purchase. Director Vraa continued that Outlot A
is being retained to provide for some type of trail node within the outlot. Mr. Vraa concluded that since the
property had been purchased with Park Site Fund dollars it would be redundant to request that this parcel be
subject to a cash parks and trails dedication.
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch indicated the Commission would need to make a recommendation
regarding whether the proposed development should be subject to a ponding and/or cash dedication to meet
water quality standards. Rich continued that this parcel lies in drainage basin J and that additional runoff
generated by this development will drain to Pond JP-69 and the to JP-770, both classified as sediment basins.
Pond JP-69 contains virtually no wet pond volume at present therefore, staff is recommending that Pond JP-69
be increased by 1.1 acre feet. It was noted that this work can be done as part of the Diffley Road
reconstruction project and will provide for a detention basing having a wet volume of approximately 2.0 acre-
feet.
Pat Connolly, 921 Curry addressed the issue of a petition with 135 signatures that was submitted to
the Advisory Planning Commission asking that the zoning of this property be reconsidered. Mr. Connolly
continued that he had appeared before the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission in
December and the Commission had made several recommendations to the City Council including some "vest
pocket" park scenarios for this site. Mr. Connolly asked why the City Council didn't respond to the
Commission's recommendations.
Mr. Connolly continued that the purpose of the present petition was to see if the neighbors and the
City could come to some compromise regarding this parcel of land. He noted that Trapp Farm Park and
Northview Park are close but access to these parks is poor. It was noted that some of the neighbors
immediately adjacent to this proposed development have approached the City to see if they could purchase
a portion of the land abutting their properties. After further review it was determined that purchase was not
a viable option for the neighbors.
Mr. Connolly stated that the neighborhood has shown the need for a park in this area and they would
still like to see one lot dedicated for park purposes. He identified that lot as the far eastern lot abutting Curry
since it had a transformer near the front and felt that that would render this lot less valuable. Pat continued
that the neighborhood is not looking for anything special that would require a lot of maintenance, rather they
just wanted a play area for the neighborhood children.
Commission Member Widem explained that several options had been provided to the City Council for
their consideration but they reiterated their desire to have this property rezoned and sold as single family lots
to recoup the purchase price. Dan Mooradian asked the location of the transformer on Lot 8 of this site.
Director Vraa identified the location noting that on an 85' front lot the location of the transformer was not
abnormal.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural ResourcesCommission
Minutes of May 6, 1993
Page 3
Dan Mooradian then asked for background the absence of a trail to access Trapp Farm Park in this
area. Director Vraa stated that a trail was originally planned along Daniel Drive to Trenton and then to Trapp
Farm Park. The residents in the area asked the City Council to remove the trail along Daniel Drive, therefore
the trail was relocated to go along the north/south power easement west of Daniel Drive with eventual
connection to the Highline trail which connects Walnut Hill Park to Trapp Farm Park. It was noted that the
north/south access could not be accomplished until the property on the west side of Daniel Drive was
developed. Director Vraa also indicated that some residents have asked to have the Daniel Drive trail
reinstated. If that is to occur, Ken continued, the right-of-way provided on the west side of Daniel Drive is the
preferred alignment. Mr. Mooradian asked if a trails dedication was paid for a Daniel Drive trail. Director
Vraa responded that funds were escrowed to fund the north/south trail segment once the alignment was
changed by the City Council.
David Szott responded that the access to Trapp Farm Park is very awkward from this development.
Mr. Vraa responded that the access follows Trenton Trail to a high point near the dry pond. Grading is limited
because of the HWL of the dry pond. Ken continued that currently there is a worn path at this location and
an asphalt trail can be provided, however it would need to be a switch back trail or steps would need to be
installed since grading cannot occur.
David Szott asked if some type of on-road striping could be done on Daniel Drive to facilitate
walking/biking traffic. Director Vraa indicated that option could be considered along with posting "no parking"
signs.
Jonathan Widem reiterated that if the residents were interested in reinstating a trail along Daniel Drive
their next step would be to petition for a trail in that location. Mr. Widem continued that the Commission has
made several recommendations to the City Council and the Council made it very clear that this parcel would
be rezoned and sold. Mr. Szott questioned why this item was on the agenda if there was no recommendation
the Commission could make regarding a trail or mini-park in this area. Director Vraa clarified that all
Preliminary Plats are routinely reviewed by the Advisory Commission for parks, trails and water quality
dedication issues. Mr. Connolly interjected that the Advisory Planning Commission had indicated their
discomfort with this project since they didn't feel the City should be in the land development business. Mr.
Vraa added that as part of the review process for preliminary plats, the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural
Resources Commission reviews these items irregardless of the Advisory Planning Commission's
recommendations.
Afterfurther discussion, Dan Mooradian moved, David Szott seconded with all members voting in favor
to make the following recommendations to the City Council regarding Lexington Meadows preliminary plat:
1. That no parks or trails dedication fees be assessed since the dollars for the purchase of this
property were obtained from the Park Site Fund.
2. That the development be subject to an on-site ponding dedication for water quality and that
the wet volume of the pond be at least 1.1 acre-feet.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural ResourcesCommission
Minutes of May 6, 1993
Page 4
PARK NAMING
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that after some background work by former Commission
Member Dick Carroll three possible names had surfaced for what is now identified as Manor Lake Park. Those
names included Manor Lake which follows the name of the subdivision; Holz Park which is named after Otto
Holz who currently resides in the farm house and from which the property was acquired; and Lakeview Park
which references the view of the lake to the south not the view of the lake the park overlooks.
After reviewing the criteria for naming Eagan parks, Stephen Thompson moved, John Rudolph seconded
with all members voting in favor to table this item until the full Commission was present to decide on the
appropriate name.
WADING POOLS UPDATE
Director Vraa introduced this item reminding the Commission that staff had requested direction
regarding what depth of research should be done regarding research into wading pools. The preliminary report
was provided to the Commission in April and this report reflects the completion of research into this issue.
Superintendent of Recreation Peterson reviewed some of the information provided that the study began with an inquiry with the Department of Health which ththe as the'lstatutory
regulatory powers associated with wading pools. As reviewed at the April meeting, Dorothy noted that the
wading pool may, with specific signage, be managed without lifeguards on duty. Other state health code issues
reviewed included the fact that wading pools require 10 square feet per swimmer, they require toilets, showers
and dressing rooms and recirculation needs to have a water turn-over rate every 2 hours compared to 4 times
in 24 hours for regulation pools. A recent estimate of costs based on construction of wading pools in the City
of Minneapolis in 1990 was $160,380 which did not include design costs, site restoration, signage or utilities.
After reviewing usage in other communities it was noted that most wading pool facilities were part
of a larger swimming pool facility. In checking on liability issues, Superintendent Peterson continued that
according to the City's risk management company, liability is not a problem if signage is used, however
lifeguards would provide even more protection.
David Szott asked if it was the intention of the City Council that the wading pool be a revenue
generator. Director Vraa noted that the original intention was that the pool simply be a drain and fill facility
for casual use, however, it appears, after further research, that this is not a viable option at this time. Jonathan
Widem noted that based on a cost/usage standpoint it doesn't appear that a wading pool is a good option at
this time. Superintendent Peterson noted that research indicates the need for a deeper pool would be preferred,
however this is a decision for the City Council. It was mentioned by several Commission members that the
concept of a water play area should be incorporated into whatever plans surface.
Mr. Billy noted that a wading pool would satisfy only a small number of people at any given time and
would not be able to meet the demand for this type of facility. Stephen Thompson suggested that the City look
at the option of providing water play in several neighborhood parks rather than focus on one larger facility.
David Szott suggested that a wading pool should be incorporated within a larger water facility.
Commission Members thanked staff for their in-depth research into this project and asked that they be
kept up-to-date on future decision regarding this issue.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural ResourcesCommission
Minutes of May 6, 1993
Page 5
CINNAMON RIDGE PARK
Director Vraa introduced this item explaining that a letter has been received from Jeffrey Boileau and
Conni Bradshaw, residents of the Cinnamon Ridge neighborhood, explaining their concern for youth playing
baseball at Cinnamon Ridge Park. It was noted that their concern was for the manner in which the youth are
using the field resulting in broken windows from baseballs and concern for smaller children using the park
while this type of play is occurring. Mr. Vraa continued that staff has taken a pro-active position by visiting
the youth while they are playing baseball and offering another type of ball that will not travel as far when hit.
It is hoped that this will help to diminish the concerns of homeowners as well as allow for the use of the park
by these youth.
Conni Bradshaw addressed the Commission noting that she appreciated the efforts the City has made
to help with this problem. Many of the residents are cognizant of the need to have facilities for youth in the
neighborhood to use and they would like to encourage this type of activity. They do feel, however, that
changing the type of ball being used is not sufficient. They would like to see some type of fencing or netting
installed to stop any balls from hitting the neighboring homes. She indicated that this has become a volatile
issue for some of the residents resulting in police being called to prevent the youth from playing ball. Ms.
Bradshaw's position is that there should be a way to solve this issue constructively without alienating the
residents or the youth.
Stephen Thompson indicated that kids are going to continue playing at this park, but a fence would
need to be very high in order to prevent the balls from going into the neighborhood. John Rudolph thanked
Ms. Bradshaw and Mr. Boileau for their pro-active approach to this problem and asked if it was feasible to
consider fencing or netting around this play area. Dan Mooradian noted that the option of providing an
alternate ball would be much more effective than trying to fence an existing play area because of the cost
constraints. Dan continued that the new ball size should be allowed to work before looking at any other
options.
GOLF DRIVING RANGE
Director Vraa noted that a draft agreement has been reviewed with Mr. Helgeson and Mr. Kuchera with
changes and additions to be completed by the City Attorney and ready for Commission review shortly. Mr.
Vraa noted that as soon as a copy is received from the City Attorney, copies will be distributed to Commission
Members. It would appear that this item will be ready to discuss at the June meeting.
WATERFOWL FEEDING POLICY
Parks Superintendent VonDeLinde noted that in response to a City Council meeting regarding the goose
population at Cedar Pond Park research was done to see if it was feasible to place signs within the park to
discourage feeding of the geese. It was noted that this procedure, coupled with the translocation project
approved by the City Council, would substantially diminish the goose population over the next several years.
Ted Billy indicated that a sign program was a good option. He also commented on the $1,000 per year
fee charged by the University of Minnesota to provide for translocation of geese noting that this was a very
reasonable fee.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural ResourcesCommission
Minutes of May 6, 1993
Page 6
After further discussion Dan Mooradian moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in
favor to recommend to the City Council that a combination of signage posted at prominent locations at Cedar
Pond Park, combined with educational efforts through the local news media, newsletters and the distribution
of fliers through neighboring residents be incorporated to discourage the feeding of geese and ducks.
PARK SYSTEM PLAN UPDATE
Director Vraa indicated that the first meeting with Barton-Aschman will be scheduled shortly regarding
the update of the Park System Plan. Ken continued that he would keep the Commission up-to-date relative to
the joint meeting that will occur with the consultant.
FISH LAKE DIAGNOSTIC/FEASIBILITY STUDY
Rich Brash noted that Fish Lake is one of the six Class I direct contact recreation water bodies in the
City water quality management plan. He continued that it is the deepest lake in the city proper and has canoe
launching facilities.. An application for a Phase I Clean Water Partnership grant was submitted to the Pollution
Control Agency in October 1992 to fund a diagnostic feasibility study and implementation plan. Although the
project did not rank high enough to receive funding the City elected to pursue a Phase I study of its own to
address the font end data acquisition, analytical and planning needs to develop a sound lake management plan.
Rich continued that the work plan being pursued is based on the technical guidelines published for the Clean
Water Partnership Program.
Mr. Brasch then reviewed the status of the assessment effort to date including in-lake monitoring at two
locations with the sampling frequency changing to bi-monthly between May and October 1993. Snowmelt
runoff and rainfall runoff have been successfully monitored and daily precipitation is being monitored at
locations near the upper end of the Fish Lake drainage basin.
In response to a question by Mr. Rudolph regarding weed harvesting, Mr. Brasch responded that 5-7
acres have been cut in the shallow east basin and also within the small part of the west basin.
ISTEA GRANT APPLICATION
Park Superintendent VonDeLinde noted that this was an informational item only stating that this was
a grant application for the Minnesota River Valley Trail Access. The dollars involved are an 80% match of a
$400,000 project. John thanked Rich Pelletier, Dorothy Peterson and C. J. Lilly for their input into this process.
FORESTRY BROCHURES
Superintendent VonDeLinde shared the last of the forestry brochures which have just recently been
completed. There are a total of six brochures that complete the set and are available to the public.
STATUS OF TREE PRESERVATION GUIDELINES
Superintendent VonDeLinde provided a brief background of the tree preservation policy process which
has included input from the Advisory Commission, Community Development, Parks and Recreation, Forestry
and the city's Developer's Task Force. John noted that it is hoped that a final draft will be available for
Commission Members at their June meeting and hopefully will proceed to the City Council on June 15.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural ResourcesCommission
Minutes of May 6,1993
Page 7
NATURAL RESOURCES SUBCOMMITTEE MEETING
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch explained that he would like to have the Natural Resources
subcommittee meet to walk the site at Gardenwood Ponds in an attempt to review some of the issues that will
arise on this site before it comes before the Commission in June.
After further discussion, May 20, 1993 was scheduled forthe subcommittee meeting from 7 - 8:30 p.m.
The subcommittee will walk the Gardenwood Ponds site and follow up with a meeting at the Central
Maintenance Facility.
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS
Department Happenings highlighted included summer registration which will occur on May 15,
increased numbers anticipated for summer youth programs, adult softball registrations at 200 teams, a very
successful Earth Day Festival on April 25, boulevard trails are being swept, recycling containers have been
placed at athletic and community park sites, staff is continuing its cooperative efforts with the ISD 196 to
provide facilities and the Arbor Day celebration and annual tree sale were very successful again this year
Director Vraa introduced C.). Lilly to the Advisory Commission. C.J. takes over the Landscape
Architect/Park Planner position after Steve Sullivan's resignation.
With no further business to conduct, John Rudolph moved, Dan Mooradian seconded with all members
voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
9- 9- 93
Se etary Date