06/03/1993 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
JUNE 3, 1993
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called
to order at 7:40 p.m. on June 3, 1993 with the following Commission Members present: David Szott, Ted Billy,
Jonathan Widem, Frankie Hall, Stephen Thompson, Dan Mooradian, George Kubik, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen and
Deborah Johnson. Commission Members Lee Markell and John Rudolph were not present. Staff present
included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; C.J. Lilly, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner; Dorothy
Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; John VonDeLinde, Parks Superintendent; Rich Brasch, Water Quality
Coordinator and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary.
APPRECIATION AWARD - JACK JOHNSON
On behalf of the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission George Kubik recognized past
Commission Member Jack Johnson and presented him with a placque in appreciation for his service to the
Commission. George noted that Jack has served as Chairman during his four years on the Commission. Jack
stated that he had thoroughly enjoyed his involvement with the Commission and was disappointed that he
would not be able to be involved with the Park System Plan Update. Jack concluded by thanking the
Commission and staff for their continued efforts in providing an exceptional park system in the City of Eagan.
AGENDA
Director Vraa asked that "Joint Council/Commission Meeting' be added under New Business. Erin
Ipsen-Borgersen moved, Deborah Johnson seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the agenda as
amended.
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 6, 1993
Ted Billy moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes
of May 6, 1993 as presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
There were no consent agenda items.
OAK CLIFF TOWNHOMES
In response to Chairman Kubik's invitation to public input regarding this development, Jim Schmidt,
2270 James Court noted that he has lived in this neighborhood for 15 years. He continued that he was the
spokesperson for the "Save the Trees" group. Mr. Schmidt continued that the existing plan calls for the site to
be graded to a relatively flat state to accommodate the townhome plan the developer is proposing. Along with
the grading,comes the elimination of most of the 300 trees on the 10.1 acres site, Mr. Schmidt added. After
presenting pictures to the Commission Mr. Schmidt identified the reasons for the Planning Commission's denial
of this development. He stated that the proposed development did not meet the intent of paragraph 14 of the
Winkler Jackson PD in making a reasonable effort to protect existing trees; the development is not harmonious
to the surrounding neighborhood and their concern for sound abatement to the neighbors. Mr. Schmidt
concluded that their hope is that the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission will concur
with the findings of the Planning Commission so that this site can be developed to provide a more positive and
harmonious element within the City of Eagan.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of June 3, 1993 Meeting
Page 2
Project Planner Mike Ridley concurred with Mr. Schmidt's assessment of the Planning Commission's
action relative to this development. Mr. Ridley added that this Planned Development allows 143 units on this
site, but the applicant is proposing 80 townhomes. Mike continued that the development is part of the 1982
Winkler Jackson Planned Development, was denied by the Advisory Planning Commission and is expected to
appear at the City Council on June 15.
Director Vraa, noted that Slater Acres Park fulfilled the park dedication requirements for the Winkler
Jackson Planned Development however this development would be responsible for a cash trails dedication.
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch noted that this development will generate stormwater that will
discharge directly to Pond AP-19 in Slater Park which is classified for scenic recreation uses. Because City
policies prohibit further degradation of water quality in ponds of this classification staff is requesting on-site
ponding for that areas that will discharge to AP-1 9. Mr. Brasch continued that the developer is showing three
separate ponding areas to catch runoff from various portions of the site and is requesting that they use one,
possibly two ponding areas to accomplish this objective. Rich continued that the developer has hired a
wetlands consultant to conduct an inventory of the site which showed two wetland areas. There is no
information to date from the developer regarding their intention to minimize impacts to these wetlands nor has
a replacement proposal been submitted.
Chairman Kubik explained that the Commission is an advisory commission and as such cannot approve
or deny a development proposal/application. The charge of the Commission is to review the parks, trails and
water resources impact as it relates to individual proposals and then make a recommendation to the City
Council. George continued that this development appears to have a major impact on Slater Acres Park both
with ponding and wetland issues.
Deborah Johnson asked if the plat was revised what the potential tree preservation could be. Mike
Ridley responded that when the development agreement was done in 1982 the City did not designate what type
of building(s) should be placed on this site. He did note, however that it was anticipated that this particular
site could accommodate a building pad for an apartment building which would have less impact on the site
and would save more of the vegetation. It was suggested to the developer that they look at the Thomas Lake
Pointe apartments to see how a building of that size could be placed compatibly on a heavily wooded site.
Mike continued that the building pads the developer is proposing require a flat, open parcel of land.
Deborah Johnson expressed her agreement with the Planning Commission's recommendation. She
added that the main issue appears to be reasonableness and it appears the developer has not exercised that
option in preserving existing vegetation. Commission Member Billy concurred that the developer has not made
a reasonable effort to preserve the trees on the site. Mr. Kubik added that there appeared to be no apparent
attempt by the developer to cooperate with suggestions from staff to mitigate impact to the property and the
adjacent park.
After further discussion, Jonathan Widem moved, Dan Mooradian seconded with all members voting
in favor to concur with the findings of the Advisory Planning Commission to deny the Oak Cliff townhome
development as presented.
Jonathan Widem moved, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen seconded with all members voting in favor to make the
following recommendations to the City Council regarding Oak Cliff Townhomes:
1. The proposal be subject to a cash trail dedication.
2. The parks dedication has been fulfilled in accordance with the Winkler Jackson Planned
Development.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of June 3, 1993 Meeting
Page 3
3. The proposal be revised to comply with the Planned Development Agreement which states,
"the developer must use reasonable effort to save existing trees".
4. The development be subject to an on-site ponding requirement for all areas draining directly
or indirectly to Pond AP-1 9, and that the developer work with staff to revise the pond layout
(which is unacceptable in its present form) prior to preliminary plat approval. Prior to
approval of the preliminary plat, the developer is to submit for staff approval a wetlands
impact report which addresses efforts that will be taken to avoid or minimize wetlands impacts
and contains a replacement plan, if appropriate.
PARK NAMING
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that it had been deferred several times in the past. After
some research there were three possible names submitted for consideration. Those names included Manor Lake
Park, Holz Farm Park and Lakeview Park. Ken continued that a petition had been received, signed by 103
residents, interested in naming the park Holz Farm Park because of the history of the land and the longevity
of the Holz family on this site. Chairman Kubik noted that according to the park naming guidelines the
Commission has not, in the past, named a park after someone who is still alive. Jonathan Widem indicated
that none of the names truly fit the criteria for naming a park and asked that more names be submitted for
consideration. Mr. Mooradian noted that the Holz family has been living on this farm for many years prior to
the birth of Otto Holz who owned land prior to the City's obtaining it for park purposes.
After further discussion, Dan Mooradian moved, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen seconded the motion to
recommend to the City Council that this park be named Holz Farm Park. Eight members voted in favor and
Jonathan Widem was opposed. The motion passed on an 8-1 vote.
GOLF DRIVING RANGE CONTRACT AGREEMENT
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that a draft contract agreement had been submitted to each
Commission Member asking that any comments or additions be directed to Ken prior to this meeting. Since
he had not received any changes from the Commission, Director Vraa concluded that the agreement was
satisfactory to them.
Jonathan Widem moved, Dan Mooradian seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend
to the City Council that the draft golf driving range contract agreement be approved.
TREE PRESERVATION UPDATE
Director Vraa introduced this item as an update of the Tree Preservation Guideline Policy. Ken
continued that this item will be reviewed by the Advisory Planning Commission on June 22 and then on to the
City Council on July 6.
Superintendent of Parks VonDeLinde noted that staff met with the Natural Resources Subcommittee on
March 10 to gain input on the general content and requirements contained within the policy. This was
followed by a meeting of the developer's task force on April 8th. Based on the input of those meetings a final
draft was done for the Advisory Commission's review and comment.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of June 3, 1993 Meeting
Page 4
Superintendent VonDeLinde reviewed the intent and objectives of the tree preservation guidelines, the
application and the definitions of those guidelines. Key definitions reviewed by Mr. VonDeLinde included
significant trees and significant woodlands. John noted that the process would remain the same. It was noted
that developers would meet with staff before the preliminary plat to walk the site and identify the woodlands
and trees to be preserved. John then reviewed the tree replacement process which was felt to be a fair and
workable solution for the developers as well as the City. John added that the proposed requirements state that
no more than 25% of the total number of significant trees and significant woodlands may be removed as a
result of predetermined construction activities when approved by the city as a part of the preliminary plat. The
APRNRC still has the discretion to change that but replacement mitigation will need to be provided. Relative
to individual lots, Mr. VonDeLinde explained that total significant tree removal cannot exceed 30%. John also
added that single family development will need to provide a lot by lot tree preservation plan.
George Kubik thanked John for an excellent job in working on this project. David Szott asked if there
would be enough staff to manage this new proposal. Mr. VonDeLinde responded that more staff time would
be needed and the Forestry department, Park Planner and City Planner will be a part of that process. John did
indicate that the single family lots will require more time, however.
After further discussion, George Kubik moved, Deborah Johnson seconded with all members voting
in favor to adopt the final draft of the Tree Preservation Guidelines as presented with the policy to be applied
retroactively to the greatest extent possible.
PAVILION/SHELTER RESERVATION USE
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that due to the increased number of requests for unpaid
reserved use of pavilions and shelters it was felt that the Commission should review some guidelines in allowing
this type of use. Ken then reviewed several optional guidelines for the Commission's consideration. Ted Billy
asked if these are new guidelines. Ken responded that currently staff does not waive fees, therefore, if requests
are made to waive fees, the Commission needs to review guidelines.
After further discussion, Ted Billy moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor
to approve the following guidelines for unpaid pavilion/shelter reservations for schools.
1. Unpaid reservation times would be within the school day hours so as not to interfere with
"reservable" evening hours.
2. Unpaid reservations would be allowed during the school year only.
3. Unpaid reservations would not be allowed on weekends or holidays.
4. Unpaid reservations would be allowed for public schools within Eagan only.
5. Unpaid reservations would be allowed for events that involve 125 people or more.
6. These guidelines will be reviewed on a yearly basis.
OUTLOTS C & D BRIDLE RIDGE
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that the City has expressed interest in obtaining Outlots C
and D of Bridle Ridge Second Addition for parks purposes. Originally it was thought that this could be a simple
title transfer of property, however the owner has indicated less interest in transferring title, rather they are
looking at selling the property at a price that is higher than the City is willing to pay at this time.
Commission Member Billy stated he favored adding parkland whenever necessary and would like to
see staff proceed with acquisition when appropriate. George Kubik added that this would be a good
discussion item for the Commission and asked that staff provide some negatives and positives relative to the
acquisition of these outlots.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of June 3,1993 Meeting
Page 5
LEXINGTON PARK SHELTER BUILDING
Director Vraa introduced this item and reviewed the two fires that had been set at Northview and
Lexington Parks. While the fire damage at Northview was being repaired, it was felt that the damage to
Lexington Park shelter building was substantial enough to warrant the razing of the building and provide for
replacement as the Commission had previously determined. Ken continued that the Commission's
recommendation was that funds be budgeted for the purchase of a trailer for Woodhaven Park and that a trailer
be rented for Lexington Park for a minimum of two years. Those recommendations were to be implemented
in the 1993 budget therefore Director Vraa asked that the Commission either reaffirm their previous
recommendation of make a new recommendation if they feel it's appropriate.
After further discussion, Dan Mooradian moved, Jonathan Widem seconded to reaffirm the
Commission's previous recommendation to allocate funds to rent a trailer for Lexington Park.
NATIONAL RECREATION TRAILS FUNDING
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that grant application materials had been received for the
National Recreation Trail Funding Program. He added that the application materials needed to be submitted
by June 10 in order for funding to be considered.
Park Superintendent John VonDeLinde explained that the guidelines for the program indicate that
dollars can be used forthe development of trail linkages, maintenance of existing recreation trails, development
of trail support facilities and construction of new trails on municipal property. John continued that the City
would need to match the grant amount by 25% if they were successful in obtaining grant dollars.
A list of twenty potential projects were reviewed by staff for consideration by the Commission. Two
projects identified as the highest priority included the Highline Trail connection from Walnut Hill Park to Trapp
Farm Park and a lineal trail at Wandering Walk Park. Because of the June 10 deadline, Superintendent
VonDeLinde explained that this item had been discussed by the City Council prior to discussion by the
Commission. He noted that the Council supported pursuing this grant application.
After further discussion, Ted Billy moved, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen seconded with all members voting in
favor to recommend that staff proceed with the grant application for the National Recreation Trail Funding
Program identifying the Highline Trail connection from Walnut Hill park to Trapp Farm Park and the lineal trail
at Wandering Walk Park as the highest priorities.
JOINT COUNCIL/COMMISSION MEETING
It was determined that Tuesday, June 22, 6:00 p.m. would be the designated joint City
Council/Commission meeting to meet the Park System Plan Update consultants and to become familiar with
their process in this venture. Director Vraa, responding to a request for an informal brainstorming session for
the Commission, suggested the Commission Members meet following the joint meeting.
PARKS UPDATE
Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Lilly noted that the newest portion of Bur Oaks Park has been
scheduled for playground completion this summer. It was noted that the north side of the park will be in the
design stage in 1993 with implementation in 1994. C.J. also explained that the trail connecting the Autumn
Ridge development with Lakeside Park in is the design stage and will be worked on as the schedule permits.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of June 3, 1993 Meeting
Page 6
In conclusion, Mr. Lilly talked about the landscape project at Thomas Lake Park wherein volunteers
of Lutheran Brotherhood will be installing the plantings near the pavilion.
GARDENWOOD PONDS
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch, indicating that this item had been discussed in great detail at a
previous Commission workshop asked if there were any additional questions regarding this upcoming
development. Rich added that the developer is proposing to fill and replace less than .7 acres of wetlands on
the site which the Commission thought was reasonable. Another point made by the Commission noted that
Pond JP-58 is not yet incorporated into the City storm sewer system. The Stormwater Comprehensive Plan
calls for a connection between JP-58 and JP-19 which is highly impacted by stormwater runoff. Engineering
staff is currently evaluating whether this connection is necessary to resolve existing flooding problems just down
drainage. The consensus of the Commission concluded that the connection between JP-58 and JP-19 should
not be made in order to protect the integrity and values of JP-58
Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Li l ly noted that he was disappointed that Outlots C & D hadn't been
acquired since that would have provided for a trail along the north side of the pond. As the plan currently
exists, there will be a trail between the schools.
It was noted that this information was provided as a summary of the Natural Resources Subcommittee
meeting relative to the Gardenwood Ponds development. This development will be before the Advisory
Commission in July for their further review and approval.
PERMANENT PROGRAM RULES - IMPLEMENTATION
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch explained that since January, 1992 all local government units have
been operating under the interim program rules of the 1991 Wetlands Conservation Act. Rich continued that
the operation of the program under this set of rules was intended to extend to July 1, 1993, at which time the
permanent program rules were to take effect. The actual implementation can be delayed up to December,
1993 based on the discretion of the local government unit, which is the City of Eagan. Mr. Brasch added that
due to the complexity of the permanent program rules, he would like to see the Natural Resources
Subcommittee meet to review several of these items.
George Kubik asked what the timing would be relative to this review. Rich responded that perhaps
the Commission could look at this item the end of June. Because of the other meetings scheduled for the
Commission, it was decided to look at a Natural Resources Subcommittee meeting date at the July meeting.
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS
A video was reviewed showing some of the activity at various parks including Goat Hill, Walnut Hill,
Rahn (east side), Ohmann, Cedar Elementary and Rahn Elementary fields.
OAK WILT STATUS REPORT
Superintendent of Parks VonDeLinde noted that the aerial photography will take place in early July to
document the extent of Oak Wilt in the city.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of June 3, 1993 Meeting
Page 7
WESCOTT SQUARE UPDATE
Director Vraa noted that staff has been working with Dakota County, HRA and other City departments
in a coordinated effort to work out summer programming at Wescott Square.. A portable trailer will be placed
on site to help facilitate the 100+ pre-school aged children and the 100+ kindergarten-5th grade children.
Volunteers from the Wescott Square neighborhood will be providing some educational opportunities in the
morning and recreation programs will operate in the afternoon. Ken noted that he will keep the Commission
up to date on further developments.
With no further business to conduct, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all
members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
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