10/07/1993 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
Subject to approval
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
OCTOBER 7, 1993
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called
to order at 7:00 p.m. on October 7, 1993 with the following Commission Members present: Frankie Hall, Ted
Billy, Stephen Thompson, Lee Markell, Jonathan Widem, John Rudolph, and Erin lpsen-Borgersen. Commission
Members Deborah Johnson, George Kubik, David Szott and Dan Mooradian were not present.
USTA AWARD PRESENTATION - PATTY MRAZ
Superintendent of Recreation Peterson introduced Patty Mrazwho has been providing tennis instruction
for the City of Eagan for the last 6 years.
Patty Mraz presented to Lee Markell and the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources
Commission an award from the Northwest Tennis Association which is a section of USTA and a representative
of the United States Tennis Council. The award was presented in recognition of the City of Eagan, and Dorothy
Peterson, for their leadership and vision in providing a program of tennis excellence in the City of Eagan.
Mr. Markell thanked Ms. Mraz, on behalf of the Commission, for this award.
AGENDA
Director Vraa added Item 5, "Crimson Leaf Trail" under Old Business and Item 4 "Workshop,
Wednesday, October 13" under Other Business and Reports. Mr. Vraa also noted that the Safari at Eagan 2nd
Addition development item had been removed from the agenda by request of the developer. Item 3 "Deer
Study" under New Business was deferred to the November Commission meeting.
Stephen Thompson moved, Jonathan Widem seconded the motion with all members voting in favor
to accept the agenda as amended.
MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 9, 1993 REGULAR MEETING
Erin Ipsen-Borgersen moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to accept
the minutes of September 9, 1993 as presented.
INTRODUCTION OF GREGG HOVE, FORESTRY SUPERVISOR
Parks Superintendent VonDeLinde introduced Gregg Hove as the new Forestry Supervisor for the City.
John noted that Gregg started with the City of Eagan on September 20 and was one of 50 applicants for the job.
Superintendent VonDeLinde added that Gregg came highly recommended to the City of Eagan and will be
providing some forestry updates for the Commission later in the meeting.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of October 7, 1993 Meeting
Page 2
CONSENT AGENDA
Stephen Thompson moved, Ted Billy seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following
recommendations to the City Council:
1. Kerr Addition - Shea Architects . This proposal would be subject to a cash parks dedication
and a cash trails dedication. A cash water quality requirement would be based on charges
to the surface runoff in pre and post conditions and the developer would be responsible for
mitigating the loss of significant trees and woodlands through the planting of 24 Category A,
91 Category B or 182 Category C replacement trees. These trees will be in addition to any
other landscaping requirements the City may have for this particular site.
2. Norwest 3rd Addition. This proposal would be subject to a cash parks dedication, a cash
trails dedication, and a cash water quality dedication. The tree replacement plan should be
approved for the development consisting of approximately 20 category B replacement trees
as mitigation for the lost woodlands in addition to the regular landscaping requirements for
this site.
3. Gregory Rounds - Waiver of Plat This proposal would be subject to a cash parks dedication,
cash trails dedication and a cash water quality dedication.
CRIMSON LEAF TRAIL SIDEWALK
After introducing this item, Director Vraa explained that at a recent City Council meeting residents were
present to oppose the extension of Crimson Leaf Trail to Dodd Road, preferring it keep the existing cul-de-sac.
It was noted that the City had always intended Crimson Leaf Trail to be a through street. Residents present
requested that the City install a sidewalk along this extension to connect Dodd Road with the sidewalk that is
currently in place on Hackmore Drive which leads walkers to Pinewood Elementary School. As the City
Council directed, staff met with residents on September 23 to review the implications of a sidewalk on the north
side of the street. Mr. Vraa continued that a petition has been received from residents showing only a few of
the residents who border the street are now in favor of such a sidewalk. It was noted that the issue for the
Advisory Commission was to hear the concerns of the residents relative to this sidewalk and make a
recommendation to the City Council as to whether a sidewalk should be installed or eliminated. Ken continued
that the residents' concern for vehicular traffic safety was identified during the discussion with the City Council
regarding the extension of Crimson Leaf Trail. It appears that the neighborhood's opinions regarding this issue
vary when the discussion applies to installation of a sidewalk on this section of Crimson Leaf Trail. Mr. Vraa
concluded that the sidewalk would be a part of the development which will continue west on Crimson Leaf
Trail to Dodd Road. The residents are responding to the portion of sidewalk being proposed adjacent to their
homes on Crimson Leaf Trail east to Hackmore Drive.
Lee Markell asked what the projected cost increase would be to defer construction of the sidewalk to
a later date. Director Vraa responded that the costs would increase if the sidewalk was installed at a later date
and estimated an approximate increase of 15-20%. Ken continued that the Council had suggested the sidewalk
go in as part of an existing contract underway in this area. It was noted that the sidewalk within the new
development, if constructed with the current contract, would cost approximately $5-6,000 whereas the portion
of sidewalk crossing existing lots would cost approximately $15,000.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of October 7, 1993 Meeting
Page 3
When asked what the projected traffic numbers are, Director Vraa responded that the information isn't
known at this time; it will depend upon actual traffic patterns within the neighborhood. John Wingard
responded that it is assumed there will be approximately 10 trips per day per house which is a conservative
estimate for traffic within a neighborhood like this one. Mr. Wingard again reiterated it is difficult to know
what the traffic patterns will be at this time.
Larry Duder, 639 Crimson Leaf Trail addressed the Commission noting that he had solicited input from
the neighborhood regarding this proposed sidewalk and the majority, based on his survey, did not want to see
a sidewalk installed. Mr. Duder added that many residents were not aware of a sidewalk proposal and did not
have an opportunity to oppose the recommendation at the City Council meeting. Because it appears the
majority do not want a sidewalk, Mr. Duder continued, it would be appropriate for the Commission to
recommend to the City Council that they reconsider their action to provide a sidewalk in this location.
Dave Osborn, 647 Crimson Leaf Trail explained that since it is unknown what the traffic counts will
be on Crimson Leaf Trail it is premature to install a sidewalk in anticipation of an unknown. Mr. Osborn felt
the traffic should be studied first and if warranted, add a sidewalk at a later date. Mr. Osborn concluded that
based on other similar trail sections near schools he did not feel a sidewalk was necessary now and was
opposed to one being installed before appropriate studies are completed.
Alan Brooks, 652 Crimson Leaf Trail expressed his concern that the neighborhood meeting was only
for those residents on the north side of Crimson Leaf Trail and wanted to express his opposition to the sidewalk
proposal.
Ted Billy stated he would like to see input from residents on both the north and south side of the street
so the Commission has a clear understanding of everyone's position. Mr. Billy asked how many residents were
present at the City Council meeting. A resident in the audience responded that several people were at the City
Council meeting and all were in favor of the sidewalk at that time.
Tracy Quinn, 664 Crimson Leaf Trail explained that she was the resident who spoke at the City Council
meeting to try to prevent Crimson Leaf Trail from continuing to Dodd Road and have it end in a cul-de-sac.
During the pre-Council meeting process, Ms. Quinn stated she sent out 3-4 flyers within the neighborhood to
let residents know this was happening. She also asked residents to notify other neighbors that may be interested
in the process as well. Of those residents attending meetings, several supported the sidewalk concept and
understood that it was to be placed on the south side of Crimson Leaf Trail. Those residents on the south side
understood that landscaping within the right-of-way would need to be moved, however they felt the safety of
children walking in this area due to the close proximity of Pinewood Elementary, was more important than the
prospect of moving some landscaping. Ms. Quinn concluded that she didn't care which side of the street a
sidewalk was placed; she just wanted to see one installed.
Jane Kackman, 663 Crimson Leaf Trail added that she was in contact with the principal of Pinewood
Elementary School and he expressed his support for a sidewalk. Jane also noted that Mayor Egan had expressed
his support for a sidewalk.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of October 7, 1993 Meeting
Page 4
Director Vraa explained that a trail was installed with the elementary school. The PTA wanted a trail
on both sides of Dodd to Diffley Road, however the current plan is for a single trail along Dodd. It was noted
that during the upgrade process for Dodd Road consideration may be given to providing a trail on both the east
and west side. Ken also noted that a sidewalk was in place on Hackmore Drive. Photographs showing the
existing homes and landscaping which would be impacted by the installation of a sidewalk on the north side
were distributed for the Commission's review. John Rudolph asked if the water hydrant and streetlight as shown
in the photos would need to be removed or relocated. John Wingard noted that the streetlight would need to
be relocated, however the sidewalk should not impact the fire hydrant. John Rudolph asked if there were
similar construction constraints on the south side of the street and if so, which side would be most cost efficient
to install a sidewalk. Mr. Wingard responded that both sides have some building constraints. He noted that
installation of retaining walls may be required if the sidewalk is located along the south side as well as the
relocation of streetlight(s). In response to John Rudolph's question, Director Vraa responded that the trail along
Dodd Road is planned on the east side and will eventually tie into the sidewalk either on the north or south
side of Crimson Leaf Trail and continue east to Hackmore Drive.
Steve Bunde, 651 Crimson Leaf Trail noted that since the volume of traffic along Crimson Leaf Trail
is unknown at this time he did not see any substantiation for providing a sidewalk and was opposed to a
sidewalk on either side. He asked that nothing be done regarding this sidewalk until such time as accurate
information can substantiate the need for one.
Erin lpsen-Borgersen explained that since a trail is being installed along Dodd Road a sidewalk along
Crimson Leaf Trail would not only provide good access to Pinewood Elementary School but would also provide
good pedestrian circulation within the neighborhood.
Bill Wallace, 640 Crimson Leaf Trail stated he lives on the south side of the street and reminded the
Commission that a clear majority opposes installation of a sidewalk. He continued that the disruption to
existing landscaping and yards seems inappropriate. Mr. Wallace asked if the City was going to go back to
existing neighborhoods where similar situations exist and disrupt those lots as well.
Erin Ipsen-Borgersen noted that the City needs to consider future development that will occur near this
area and try to provide the safest access to and within neighborhoods.
Tom Kackman, 663 Crimson Leaf Trail expressed his confusion in understanding why anyone living
on the south side of Crimson Leaf Trail would oppose the installation of a sidewalk on the north side. He
explained that this would provide a safe access for children to Pinewood School and felt the City should take
advantage of the cost savings now rather than wait for higher costs of construction. Tom concluded that this
street is an artery into the neighborhood and the sidewalk is necessary for safe access; the City should also
benefit from the cost savings of installing the sidewalk within an existing contract.
Jonathan Widem asked if there were any trends in requests for sidewalk installation from residents after
they had been living in their neighborhood for a period of time. Director Vraa responded that typically requests
for sidewalk installation increase after the neighborhood has been established and there are several schools and
residents who actively request additional sidewalks.
Jim Lynch, 659 Crimson Leaf Trail stated that he agreed with Larry Duder in that both sides should
have been brought into the process from the beginning. Mr. Lynch expressed his opposition to having the street
continue to Dodd Road and would have preferred a cul-de-sac, however since the Council decided to carry
the street through, he felt it was important to provide safe access for pedestrians along this street and supported
the installation of a sidewalk.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of October 7, 1993 Meeting
Page 5
Lee Markel) asked for clarification of the Commission's role in this procedure. Director Vraa stated
that the Commission meeting would act as a public hearing after which the Advisory Commission was asked
to make a recommendation to the City Council. Mr. Markell clarified for the residents that the Commission
was an advisory commission only and that the City Council would be making the final determination relative
to this issue.
Mr. Markell asked what the process would be if the sidewalk is not installed at this time and the
residents petition the City five years from now to have one installed. Director Vraa stated that the priority of
this sidewalk installation would become the biggest issue if addressed at a later date. With many requests
annually for additional trails and sidewalks this link may not be the highest priority at the time residents request
it.
Mark Benner, 643 Crimson Leaf Trail asked if it was possible to place an on-street trail within Crimson
Leaf Trail. Mr. Wingard indicated that on-street trails are no longer provided for in the construction of streets.
Mr. Benner, noting that this issue has torn the neighborhood apart, asked if a compromise could be considered.
He suggested that the sidewalk be installed from Dodd Road east along Crimson Leaf Trail through the
undeveloped lots and then connect to the north to Pinewood Elementary prior to affecting the existing homes
on Crimson Leaf Trail. Mr. Benner saw this as an option that would satisfy existing homeowners on Crimson
Leaf Trail as well as providing access to Pinewood from Dodd Road. Lee Markell asked if this option could
be looked at for a recommendation at a later date. Director Vraa explained that the City Council and the
contractor want this change to an existing contract to be addressed as soon as possible so that work can
continue. Ted Billy asked how far into school property this trail would go and would the City need special
permission to provide this northerly trail link. Director Vraa explained that this access would need to be
negotiated and approved by the developer as well as the school district. Jon Wingard added that the City may
need to purchase this access from the developer as well.
Erin Ipsen-Borgersen expressed her concern that by bringing the trail up into the school property the
continuous link from Dodd Road to Hackmore Drive would be interrupted and defeat the purpose of providing
a consistent trail connection in this neighborhood. Erin continued that after hearing comments from many
residents and the Commission, she moved that the original recommendation made by the City Council to
provide a sidewalk on the north side of Crimson Leaf Trail from Dodd Road to Hackmore Drive should be
approved. Jonathan Widem seconded the motion with Members Ipsen-Borgersen, Rudolph, Widem,
Thompson, Billy, and Hall voting yes. Member Markell was opposed. The vote passed on a 6-1 vote.
OAK WILT AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Park Superintendent VonDeLinde explained that as part of the oak wilt suppression project the City had
authorized that dollars be allocated for aerial photography in order to evaluate the extent of this problem. John
continued that the fly over was done at 4000 feet and the infra-red photography has been completed. Jeff Perry
has begun the interpretation of the photographs to determine the disease centers and will follow up with ground
truthing to clarify species and the extent of the disease.
Gregg Hove continued that the aerial photography showed approximately 80 infection sections. The
ground truthing is now complete and it is anticipated this will result in approximately 20 additional infection
centers. The aerial photography and ground truthing will help show trends for both oak wilt and dutch elm
disease within the city. Gregg noted that Lebanon Hills has a severe oak wilt problem and staff was surprised
to see the drastic increase in dutch elm disease throughout the city. In response to a question as to how many
photographs have been developed, Mr. VonDeLinde responded between 80-100.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of October 7, 1993 Meeting
Page 6
Gregg continued that a grant program sponsored by the DNR and Forest Service provided dollars
wherein the City of Eagan will "cost-share" a portion of the expense to control the spread of oak wilt through
the community. Property owners will need to submit a copy of their paid bill for root graft disruption and/or
tree removal by December 1, 1993. Property owners will then be reimbursed from the $31,000 eligible grant
funds in February, 1994. It was noted that nine billings have been submitted to date.
After further discussion, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members
voting in favor to have staff make a presentation to the City Council to help inform the public of the oak wilt
and dutch elm problem within the City.
GOLF DRIVING RANGE
Director Vraa explained that the Commission had previously reviewed a proposal to authorize a vendor
to use a portion of Lexington/Diffley athletic site for a golf driving range. A draft contract was developed after
the City Council approved the recommendation. Because the Lexington/Diffley site was anticipated to be
graded in 1993 it was hoped that the driving range would be in operation the remainder of 1993, 1994, 1995
and 1996. Since that work did not occur, Mr. Vraa continued, the vendor is asking that the contract be
extended through 1997 since they won't be able to open until 1994. Ken added that if the Commission
approves this extension, the contract will read 1994 as a partial operational year, would extend through 1997
with the provision to extend the contact an additional year, 1998, remaining in the contract.
Rick Kuchera indicated that he and his partner needed a four year commitment to make the driving
range a viable option and in order to do that an extension to the contract is needed. Director Vraa stated that
Chairman Kubik had expressed his concern for extending the contract and asked about the implications of
postponing field usage for an additional year. Jonathan Widem suggested looking at the impact of providing
the golf driving range versus field usage during the Park System Plan Update to see if the driving range offers
options to be considered in the Master Plan. Stephen Thompson stated he saw no down side in extending the
contract now. Ted Billy responded that the problem may be the need for athletic fields before the contract
expires and concurred with waiting until the Park System Plan Update is completed. Director Vraa confirmed
that the schedule for completion is early 1994. Mr. Billy added that the Update could shed some light on what
future facilities should be prioritized. Lee Markel) asked if a Commission decision in December would enable
Mr. Kuchera to proceed with plans for 1994. Mr. Kuchera responded affirmatively.
Stephen Thompson moved, Lee Markell seconded a motion to extend the golf driving range contract
one year. Ted Billy reiterated his support for waiting for input from the master plan and deferring a decision
until December. Stephen Thompson commented he did not feel the master plan would impact this decision.
Erin Ipsen-Borgersen suggested waiting until further information was available to make an informed decision.
Director Vraa noted that information from the Commission workshop may spawn more ideas as to how the
Lexington/Diffley site should be used. Mr. Markell noted there was a motion and second on the table and
called the vote. Aye: Stephen Thompson. Nay: Erin Ipsen-Borgersen, John Rudolph, Jonathan Widem, Lee
Markel), Ted Billy and Frankie Hall. The motion was defeated.
Jonathan Widen moved, Erin lpsen-Borgersen seconded with all members voting in favor to table this
item until the November Commission Meeting.
COMMUNITY FESTIVALS
Superintendent of Recreation Peterson explained that the Commission had directed staff to prepare a
draft of a survey that could be distributed to organizations and/or individuals. The purpose of the survey would
be to discover potential interest in the City for a new community-wide event or events. Dorothy brought the
Commission's attention to the two survey examples. She asked for their input, asked them to identify who they
perceive to be the target audience and how they would see the distribution of this survey.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of October 7, 1993 Meeting
Page 7
Stephen Thompson asked what the objective was for this anticipated festival. Dorothy responded that
this item has been brought to the City on several occasions by various groups and residents in the City.
Dorothy added that the imputes is to provide a sense of community. Mr. Thompson continued that he would
like to see the mission for this project defined up front.
John Rudolph noted that he preferred Form B because it is difficult to pull information from those being
surveyed with open ended questions. Mr. Thompson suggested a survey combining both formats provided.
Jonathan Widem noted that Form B already incorporates portions of Form A. Mr. Rudolph reiterated that the
simpler the form the more inclined people are to fill it out and return it.
John Rudolph suggested having blank lines at the end of the survey to provide for written comments.
Ted Billy stated that Question #9 referencing other large festivals on Form B was an important question.
Frankie Hall stated that a theme is an important aspect of the survey.
Lee Markel) asked who the target audience should be and what type of distribution should be used.
Some of the suggestions included inserting within the This Week newspaper, including in the quarterly
newsletter, distributing to program participants and doing a random sample survey. Director Vraa suggested
the Commission consider how fast they want a response to the survey as well as identify the cross section they
want to use. Frankie Hall favored a random survey and Jonathan Widem favored a combination of inserting
within the newsletter and distributing to program participants. Another suggestion was to have the surveys
available in the warming shelters for parents to fill out while they're waiting for their children. Erin lpsen-
Borgersen suggested that Commission Members participate by distributing surveys to various members of the
community. Ted Billy suggested sending surveys to those organizations who may participate in a festival and
ask that their members provide their input. Another suggestion was to make the surveys available during school
conferences. Superintendent Peterson noted that the anticipated deadline for receiving information from a
survey would be early January.
After further discussion Lee Markell moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in
favor to recommend that Form B survey, modified by adding the theme question from Form A, be used and
a combination of random sample survey and selected target interest groups be used. Distribution of the survey
would be through direct mail, warming houses and conferences to get as diverse a group as possible.
1994 PARK DEDICATION FEES
Director Vraa introduced this item explaining that the Commission annually reviews the status of parks
and trails dedication fees to determine if adjustments should be made to those fees. If the Commission's
recommendations are adopted by the City Council, any change in fees takes effect on January 1 of the following
year. Ken continued that developments are required to dedicate either land or cash. The cash dedication is
based on land value equivalents and the Commission determines land value each yearforeach category of land
use. The land value determination is also used as a base for water quality fees.
As a base for the Commission, developers were asked to provide information relative to the sales price
of property in the last year. Although developers were very helpful in providing the information, they asked
that specific land parcels not be identified and also cautioned that land sales are affected by the terms of the
agreement, usable land and assessments on the property. The acreage prices submitted varied from $15,000
to $33,000 depending upon accessibility to utilities and usable land. It appears, Ken continued, that
$20,000/acre is a fair average price for single family land. After reviewing dedication fees of other
communities, Ken concluded that the last fee increase for single family was in 1991 wherein the land value
was determined to be $16,330/acre. The commercial/industrial rate was increased last in 1990.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of October 7, 1993 Meeting
Page 8
Ted Billy noted it appears the fees throughout the communities surveyed are very comparable. John
Rudolph added that since other communities are looking at the City of Eagan's fee structure for parks/trails
dedication, has there been any discussion in standardizing fees so similar communities have similar fees.
Director Vraa explained that would be difficult since each community has different park standards as well as
different land values. Stephen Thompson stated the City needs to look at the value parks are to the community
at large and shouldn't be apologetic for being in the top 1/3 of fees based on the need to maintain Eagan's high
park standards. Jonathan Widem concurred, adding that he is in favor of a small increase in the park
dedication fees for single family developments. Ted Billy asked what a 'small' increase would be feeling the
City has been charging reasonable fees in the past and was concerned about the perception of overcharging.
Lee Markell asked if this item could be revisited in December to give the Commission time to consider
options relative to park dedication fees. Ted Billy asked why the issue needed to be tabled and Mr. Markell
suggested it would give the Commission an opportunity to review the information more carefully before making
a recommendation to the City Council.
After further discussion, Lee Markell moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in
favor to table the determination of 1994 parks and trails dedication fees until the December meeting.
TRAPP FARM SHELTER - WINTER RESERVATIONS
Recreation Supervisor Jon Oyanagi introduced this item explaining that Trapp Farm Park tubing hill
continues to grow in popularity and draws people from all over the Twin City area. Groups organizing trips
to Trapp Farm often cause a sudden influx of visitors which causes overcrowding during weekend afternoons
and some weekday evenings. There have also been several requests from groups for an exclusive reservation
at the tubing hill which have not been able to be accommodated to date. Jon continued that staff has looked
at the option of setting aside some time slots to allow for reserved use of Trapp Farm tubing hill and is looking
to the Commission for their input and recommendations. Jon then reviewed some time slots that could be used
for reserved time. One of the options presented was to provide rental opportunities from 8-9 p.m. Monday,
Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, 8-10 p.m. Saturday evening, 10 a.m.-1 2 noon and 8-9 p.m. Sunday. One
of the concerns, Jon continued, was the potential for conflict with tubers who want to stay past 8 p.m. when
a reservation exists. Stephen Thompson asked if there was no reservation from 8-9 p.m. would the hill remain
open to the public. Jon responded affirmatively.
Ted Billy commented he was impressed with the analysis of this problem and the way in which staff
has thought through several options to facilitate multiple requests at Trapp Farm Park. Mr. Billy did share Jon's
concern for conflict from tubers who may not want to leave during a reservation.
Jonathan Widem noted this was a wonderful compromise to facilitate both public and reserved use but
suggested starting the reservations on January 1 to allow tubers a period of time to become acclimated to a
reservation format. John Rudolph asked if multiple reservations would be considered if the groups were small
enough. Lee Markell suggested maximizing the options if the hill could support multiple groups. The
suggestion to maintain an exclusive reservation for a group of 20 or more was agreed to by the majority of the
Commission. John Rudolph suggested that staff approach this as a pilot program and revise as needed .
Afterfurtherdiscussion, Jonathan Widem moved, Stephen Thompson seconded with all membersvoting
in favor to have staff proceed with the rental opportunity at Trapp Farm Park tubing hill with the times and
specifics to be identified and modified as staff sees fit.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of October 7, 1993 Meeting
Page 9
DAKOTA HILLS MIDDLE SCHOOL/FIELD MAINTENANCE
Lee Markell moved, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen seconded with all members voting in favor to defer the
Dakota Hills Middle School Field Maintenance to the November meeting.
PARKS DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Lilly updated the Commission on several construction projects. He
explained that the concrete and bituminous surfaces are complete at Blackhawk Park and staff is looking at
providing directional signage and landscaping at the entrance. Lakeside Park trail is ready for bituminous
overlay, C.J. continued, and the trail will provide for a flat bike walk area adjacent to the steps. Landscaping
on both sides of the sidewalk at Sky Hill Park will be done by an Eagle Scout and landscaping at the water
treatment facility will be done by volunteers.
Relative to Wescott Commons, it was noted that all the bids received were too high therefore the
project will be re-bid next spring. Perhaps the bid will be incorporated with another larger project to provide
more competitive bids. Director Vraa noted that the bids were 30% higher than anticipated.
APPLICATION FOR SCHWANZ LAKE
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch reviewed a grant proposal to the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency's Cleanwater Partnership Program for improvement of water quality in Schwanz Lake. The grant
application for this project was submitted last year, however it was ranked too low to receive funding. Rich
continued that staff would like to submit a similar grant application supplemented with additional information
to specifically address some of the project scoring criteria.
After further discussion, Lee MarkelI moved, Erin Ipsen-Borgersen seconded with all members voting
in favor to support Council approval of a grant application to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's
Cleanwater Partnership Program for improvement of water quality in Schwartz Lake.
EAGANDALE INDUSTRIAL PARK - WATER QUALITY AND WETLANDS
Rich Brasch introduced this item as a request from a developer to consider approval of wetlands
replacement plans prior to the expiration of the interim program of the WCA on December 15. The developer
has asked if the City would consider approval of a wetland analysis and replacement plan for a 200 acre
industrial site. Rich continued that a site plan has been submitted which addresses wetlands and water quality
ponding issues as well as storm water volume control. Several other departments within the City are reviewing
the viability of this option as well.
Rich Brasch suggested that this item could be addressed more in depth by the Natural Resources
Subcommittee at a special workshop. Stephen Thompson concurred noting that the subcommittee could review
this involved development and make recommendations to the Advisory Commission.
After further discussion, Jonathan Widem moved to table the action on this item until the November
meeting. A meeting of the Natural Resources Subcommittee was scheduled for October 20, 5:30 p.m. at the
development site. Stephen Thompson seconded the motion with all members voting in favor.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of October 7, 1993 Meeting
Page 10
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS
Several Department Happenings items were reviewed including the slight decline in the numbers of
youth participating in EAA basketball, 43% increase in baseball and softball game reservations over 1992,
12.5% increase in picnic facility reservations, colorcoating of tennis and hardcourts is 60-65% complete and
the success of the Community Services Open House on September 11.
SUMMER PROGRAM REPORT - JON OYANAGI
Recreation Supervisor Oyanagi reviewed some of the highlights of the summer programs he was in
charge of. Jon stated that 200 adult softball teams participated in 1993 compared to 218 in 1992. It appears,
Jon continued, that the biggest loss was in the industrial league.
The in-line skating opportunities have created significant growth in participants. The bike/walk club
interest typically wanes in the winter but increases again in the spring. Overall the summer programs were very
successful and Jon touched lightly on Camp Creative, Movies in the Park, Adult Soccer and 3-on-3 Basketball.
Programs coming up, Jon continued, include Star Gazing at Thomas Lake Park and the Treat and Spook
Trails scheduled for October 29 at Thomas Lake Park.
MINNESOTA VALLEY WILDLIFE ACQUISITION PROGRAM
Director Vraa asked that this item be deferred to the October 13 workshop session for Commission
review.
WORKSHOP - OCTOBER 13, 1993
Director Vraa noted that a workshop has been scheduled to review the Park Systems Plan Update with
Barton Aschman Associates on Wednesday, October 13 at 6:30 p.m.
With no further business to conduct, Ted Billy moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting
in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:55 p.m.
5 retary Date