01/06/1994 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
Subject to approval
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
JANUARY 6, 1994
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called
to order at 7:00 p.m. on January 4, 1994 with the following Commission Members present: George Kubik,
Stephen Thompson, Dan Mooradian, Deborah Johnson, Jonathan Widem, Ted Billy, John Rudolph, Lee Markell
and David Szott. Commission Members Erin Ipsen-Borgersen and Frankie Hall were not present. Staff present
included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; John
VonDeLinde, Parks Superintendent;C.J. Lilly, Landscape Arch itect/Parks Planner; Rich Brasch, Water Resources
Coordinator; Shannon Tyree, Project Planner; Mike Ridley, Project Planner and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary.
AGENDA
Director Vraa added "Eagandale 4th Addition" under"Development Proposals" and explained that there
were several items to be added under "Other Business and Reports" specifically relating to future meetings to
be scheduled with the Commission. Ken also noted that "Sidewalk Request-Bent Tree Lane" was being deferred
under "Old Business" based on a request by Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Fink. Dan Mooradian moved, Jonathan
Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the agenda as amended.
MINUTES OF DECEMBER 2, 1993
John Rudolph moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the
minutes of December 2, 1993 as presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
There were no items under the Consent Agenda.
PONDVIEW ADDITION-GOOD VALUE HOMES
Director Vraa introduced this item as a Preliminary Plat consisting of 29 townhome units on 12.5 acres
located north of Englert Road and west of Pilot Knob Road which was previously reviewed by the Commission
in February of 1993.
Project Planner Mike Ridley noted that the applicant for this development is Good Value Homes. He
added that although the Preliminary Plat was approved by the City Council in March, 1993, it did not move
ahead. The applicant has since obtained an additional .8 acre from MnDot, finalized the placement of Englert
Road and redesigned the layout of the site. Mike concluded that the development is 4.4 units/acre which meets
the D-2 mixed residential designation.
Parks Superintendent VonDeLinde explained that a tree preservation plan has been submitted for this
development identifying primarily small, secondary growth on the majority of the parcel. There are also several
large box elders and elms on the westerly pond edge which the Commission had previously expressed a desire
to save. John continued that the new site grading plan reflects that those larger trees will be retained. The loss
of a number of other smaller vegetative tees will make it necessary for the developer to plant seven Category
B replacement trees as mitigation pursuant to the Tree Preservation Plan. Superintendent VonDeLinde
concluded that the replacement trees should be in addition to the normal landscaping requirements for this site.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of January 4, 1994 Meeting
Page 2
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch noted that earlier review by the Commission resulted in a request
for a cash water quality dedication. Staff if also recommending that the developer construct a sump off of each
end of the storm sewer pipes discharging to Pond JP-3. Relative to wetlands, the developer needs approval to
fill up to 230 square feet of wetland associated with Pond JP-3. This encroachment will be matched on-site
with an in-kind replacement near the northern boundary of the developed area.
Jonathan Widem asked for more information relative to the consideration for a tot lot in this
development. Director Vraa explained that this residential area is bordered by 1-35E on the west, a pond on
the north and west, Pilot Knob Road on the east, and Englert Road on the south. The nearest park for children
who may live in this residential development would be Fish Lake Park requiring the crossing of Pilot Knob Road
to access it. Director Vraa continued that the Commission has, in the past, explored the option of providing
a tot lot or open play space in areas where access to an existing park would be difficult.
Project Planner Ridley explained that when this item appeared before the Advisory Planning
Commission in December they added a condition to the plat that a tot lot be included in this development.
Mike clarified that the Advisory Planning Commission's recommendation was based on their perception that
a tot lot would be recommended by the APRNR Commission but they would support the recommendations of
the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission.
Ted Billy explained that one of the Commission's biggest concerns in the past has been safety which
has resulted in recommendations that developments, appearing to have difficult access to a park, provide tot
lots or open play space within their developments. George Kubik agreed but clarified that the Commission has
also exercised some flexibility in looking at the needs of specific development before making that
recommendation.
John Peterson, representing Good Value Homes, addressed the Commission, noting that a similar
townhome community has been developed in Coon Rapids. Mr. Peterson was concerned by the condition in
the plat that a tot lot be provided since the target market for this development was young professionals and folks
55 years and older. Mr. Peterson identified a similar subdivision in Apple Valley which has very few children.
It was felt that this townhome development will have few, if any, children. With that being the case, Mr.
Peterson continued that the insurance for providing a tot lot within a development would prove to be
burdensome to the association and they would prefer not having one installed. The homes are planned to be
two bedroom, 1-1/2 bath in the price range of $100-140,000. Based on the product that is planned, Mr..
Peterson contended that this particular home is not indicative to people with small children who would use
a tot lot. Another concern expressed by Mr. Peterson was identifying a location for the tot lot since there
would be limited space for placement.
George Kubik noted that multi-family developments of 2+ bedrooms per unit are usually required to
provide open play space. Ted Billy asked how much space is needed for a tot lot. Director Vraa responded
that an area 50' x 100' would be sufficient for a tot lot or open play space. In response to a question relative
to the grade of the center of the site, Mr. Peterson responded that it is fairly level. Ted Billy asked where the
parent or grandparent of a child would take them if they wanted to go to a park. Director Vraa responded that
Fish Lake Park was the closest but that it most likely would not be a park they would walk to.
Deborah Johnson stated that as the owner of a townhome she would be opposed to providing a tot lot
on the site. She continued that based on her experience, typically people with young children are living in
a townhome until they can move into a single family detached home. Deborah also expressed her concern
for the liability of the association in providing a tot lot. Based on the information provided by the developer,
Ms. Johnson felt this particular development was not conducive to a tot lot provision.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of January 6, 1994 Meeting
Page 3
John Peterson reiterated the target market for this development as young professionals and retired
individuals which doesn't lend itself to the use of a tot lot. Mr. Peterson felt that open space which would
provide use by all residents of the association would be more appropriate.
Lee Markell suggested focusing on providing open space within this development ratherthan a tot lot.
George Kubik suggested leaving an open play space and if the need arises, then a tot lot can be installed. Ted
Billy asked who would determine that need and pay the cost for installation. Mr. Kubik responded that the
decision would be made by the association and they would incur the cost as well.
Dan Mooradian noted that the primary concern is that this site is isolated and it is unlikely that children
will be able to walk to a park easily from this location. However, Dan continued, people purchasing in this
area will be able to see the street and pond obstacles that exist and should be aware that a park is not within
walking distance from this site. Even with those obstacles, Dan did not support including a tot lot.
George Kubik asked if an open space designation can preclude tree planting or construction of an out
building on the designated space. Lee Markell suggested moving the center buildings slightly to enlarge the
open space between those buildings.
John Peterson noted that although the development to the north has been continued, if that does come
to fruition, it could provide expanded open space. Mr. Peterson then identified a peninsula location that could
provide the open play space the Commission has been referring to but could not occur until, and if, the
residential development proposed to the north is developed. Mr. Peterson added that they are amenable to
restricting planting within the area identified as open space. In response to a question relative to how much
open space is required for a multi-family development, Ken Vraa stated that City Code identified 150 square
feet per unit open space requirement.
After further discussion, Dan Mooradian moved and Jonathan Widem seconded a motion to
recommend the following to the City Council relative to Pondview Addition:
1. This proposal be subject to a cash parks dedication.
2. This proposal be subject to a cash trails dedication.
3. The developer provide open space within this development and work with staff to determine
location and size of that open space.
4. The developer be required to construct a sump off the end of each storm sewer pipe
discharging to Pond JP-3.
5. The developer be required to make a cash dedication to meet wetland quality requirements
based on the area of the site of the NWL of Pond JP-3.
6. The developer is given approval to fill 230 square feet of wetlands with on-site and in-kind
replacement under the interim program guidelines of the Wetlands Conservation Act near the
north boundary of the developed area.
7. The developer be responsible for planting seven Category B replacement trees for mitigation
for lost woodlands.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of January 6, 1994 Meeting
Page 4
Ted Billy stated his uncomfortableness in not identifying a need for a tot lot within this development.
He continued that it is unknown what the development to the north will be and there is a need in the
community that can be addressed by tot lots in developments like Pondview Addition. Ted reiterated his
concern that if a tot lot is not identified and there becomes a need for one in the future, there is no provision
for the City to require one at a later date.
After further discussion a vote was called relative to this motion. Those voting Aye were John Rudolph,
Jonathan Widem, Deborah Johnson, Dan Mooradian, Stephen Thompson, George Kubik, and Lee Markell.
Those voting Nay were Ted Billy and David Szott. The motion passed.
PONDVIEW 2ND ADDITION
Project Planner Ridley introduced this item noting that it was to appear at the December Advisory
Planning Commission. The applicant continued this item pending the commercial/industrial review being
conducted by the City. In conjunction with the commercial/industrial study, atransportation study is also being
done relative to the feasibility of providing a ring road in this area to help with the traffic congestion. Pending
the results of the various studies being proposed, this item will not be seen by the Advisory Planning
Commission.
Chairman Kubik suggested that this item be deferred by the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural
Resources Commission pending the results of the studies identified by Mr. Ridley.
SILVER BELL 2ND ADDITION
Director Vraa introduced this item as a preliminary plat consisting of 30.27 acres with one lot of 1.54
acres and one outlot for 28.73 acres.
Project Planner Shannon Tyree continued that this site is located on the north side of Kennebec Drive,
southeast of Seneca Addition in the southeast quarter of Section 18. This site is an open grassy field with high
points on the northwest and southwest portion and virtually treeless due to prior grading. Shannon added that
the applicant is Norm Vogelpohl and this proposal was approved by the Advisory Planning Commission at their
December meeting.
Director Vraa explained that staff is recommending a cash parks and cash trails dedication for this
development. Parks Superintendent VonDeLinde noted that the site has been cleared and graded in the recent
past and there are no existing trees on the building site and no requirement for a tree preservation plan. John
continued that at the recommendation of Forestry Supervisor Hove the developer has provided for a mixture
of deciduous vegetative overstory trees rather than planting all one species. Water Resources Coordinator
Brasch noted that the developer will be responsible for a cash water quality dedication with the water quality
for the remaining 28.73 acre outlot to be determined at the time of its development.
David Szott asked if the Commission could recommend that oak trees be designated as the deciduous
trees to be planted to fulfill requirement of the landscape plan but also to mitigate some the loss anticipated
in combatting Oak Wilt. Mr. VonDeLinde responded that it was a good suggestion, however consideration
would need to be given to whether oaks would thrive in the flood plain area which is where the planting will
occur.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of January 6, 1994 Meeting
Page 5
After further discussion Dan Mooradian moved, Deborah Johnson seconded with all members voting
in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to Silver Bell 2nd Addition.
1. This development be responsible for a cash parks dedication.
2. This development be responsible for a cash trails dedication.
3. This development be responsible for a cash water quality dedication.
4. There is not substantial loss of trees or woodlands with this proposal, therefore, no tree
preservation plan is required.
EAGANDALE LEMAY LAKE 4TH ADDITION
HAMPTON INN/CRACKER BARREL RESTAURANT
Director Vraa introduced this item and explained that this is the first development proposal that will
be processed using the new development process in which proposals will appear before the Advisory Parks,
Recreation and Natural Resources Commission prior to going to the Advisory Planning Commission and then
on to the City Council. With this first development, Ken continued there will be some issues that will require
changes and refinement and asked the Commission to be patient as this process evolves.
Project Planner Mike Ridley explained that separate applications requesting a rezoning from
Neighborhood Business/General business to Commercial Planned Development and a Preliminary Plat
consisting of two lots of 5.7 acres have been received by the City. This proposal is located in the southwest
corner of the intersection of Lone Oak Road. The plat includes a 108 unit, three story Hampton Inn, limited
service hotel on Lot 1 and a 9,700 square foot Cracker Barrel restaurant on Lot 2. Mike concluded that there
are issues that are still to be worked out but this item is scheduled to appear at the January 25, 1994 Advisory
Planning Commission.
Director Vraa explained that staff is recommending a cash parks dedication for this commercial
development and since trailways along Lone Oak Road and Eagandale have already been required of this
development, no further trails dedication is required.
Parks Superintendent VonDeLinde noted that this site has been reviewed by Forestry staff and thereare
no tree preservation issues associated with the plat.
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch stated that there are no wetlands on this site, therefore there are
no wetland issues associated with this plat. Relative to water quality, however, Mr. Brasch explained that this
site will generate a storm water runoff that will discharge through the storm water system directly to LeMay
Lake, one of six lakes classified to support direct contact recreation. Although the water quality in LeMay Lake
is good relative to other lakes in Eagan, it does not meet the standards set forth in the Water Quality
Management Plan. Developments that discharge directly into recreationally classified water bodies are
generally required to comply with on-site ponding and staff has requested that the developer reserve space for
a water quality treatment pond. Rich noted that the site plan does reflect this provision.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of January 6, 1994 Meeting
Page 6
Mr. Brasch continued that modeling of LeMay Lake and watershed pollutant loads indicate that almost
60% of the phosphorous loading into the lake comes through two pipes sharing a single location in the
northeast corner of the lake. These pipes drain water from about 140 acres of commercial/industrial property
with much of the development in this drainage area having occurred before the Water Management Plan was
adopted.
Water Resource Coordinator Brasch noted there were some options that the Commission may want to
consider regarding the water quality dedication for this development. One option would be to require a cash
dedication (estimated at $42-47,000) in lieu of on-site ponding to meet the water quality requirements with the
cash to be used to fund a detailed evaluation of options to reduce nutrient loading to LeMay Lake and/or help
finance construction of those options. Another consideration would be to require construction of on-site
ponding to treat all runoff from this development prior to discharge to LeMay Lake with the pond conforming
to NURP standards. Yet another option for the Commission to consider, Mr. Brasch continued, would be a
combination of both options discussed. In conclusion, Rich noted that a comprehensive and thorough analysis
should be done first to provide a basis for a decision on the best way to handle the major negative influence
of untreated runoff from the existing industrial/commercial area to the north of the lake.
Deborah Johnson asked what some of the construction options would be to help with the problem.
Mr. Brasch noted that one option is to interrupt the drainage from the north and tie into a nutrient basin at a
cost of approximately $300,000. Another option could be the construction of a NURP basin to be built on
property owned by Northwestern Mutual at a cost of $300-500,000 including land acquisition. Anotheroption,
which was recently made known to Mr. Brasch is the possibility of sectioning off an area of LeMay Lake with
a curtain which would provide a nutrient basin within the lake but would reduce the nutrient loading to the
majority of the lake.
George Kubik asked about the possibility of curtaining off the lake. Mr. Brasch responded that he
doesn't have sufficient information on this option yet, but will be researching it further to see if it can be a
viable option. Dan Mooradian asked how much a study would be to determine the best solution for this
development. Rich responded that $5,000 would provide a cost study to work with and coupled with the
water modeling that has been done to date, there should be enough information to come to some conclusions
as to the best way to proceed.
Deborah Johnson asked if the runoff to LeMay Lake will increase. Project Planner Ridley clarified that
the area to the north of this site is approximately 85% developed.
George Kubik asked if the information obtained from this study could be used to help with future
developments throughout the City. Mr. Brasch responded that the information will provide the basis for
alternatives in future development with similar issues.
Lee Markell asked if on-site ponding would fulfill approximately 2/3 of the water quality requirement
for this site. Rich Brasch responded that it would. Mr. Markell suggested that in order to reduce the
impervious surface within this development that the parking stalls be decreased from a 10' width to a 9' width
and then the on-site ponding requirement could be increased to meet the water quality requirements for this
development. Project Planner Ridley noted that this could be an issue to be explored, however, in the past,the
City Council has maintained a 10' parking stall width in industrial/commercial sites. Lee reiterated his opinion
that with the emphasis the City Council has placed on the Water Quality Management Plan it seems logical
that consideration should be given to reducing impervious surfaces when possible; which includes looking at
reducing parking stalls from 10' in width to 9' in width. George Kubik suggested that this concern could be
addressed with the City Council during their next joint meeting. Planner Ridley noted that this will ultimately
be a policy issue for the City Council but the Commission's concerns will also be relayed to the Advisory
Planning Commission as they review this item at their January 25 meeting.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of January 6, 1994 Meeting
Page 7
After further discussion, Dan Mooradian moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting
in favor to make the following recommendations to the Advisory Planning Commission and City Council
relative to Eagandale LeMay Lake 4th Addition:
1. This development to be responsible for a cash parks dedication.
2. There are no trails dedication issues relative to this plat.
3. There are no wetland issues relative to this plat.
4. There are no tree preservation issues relative to this plat.
5. A cash dedication be required in lieu of on-site ponding to meet water quality requirements
of this plat. The cash would be used to fund a detailed evaluation of options to reduce
nutrient loading to LeMay Lake and/or to help finance construction of those options.
Lee Markell moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend to the
City Council that in order to reduce the impervious area of this site by 10%, the Advisory Parks, Recreation
and Natural Resources Commission is recommending that consideration be given to reducing the parking stall
widths to 9'.
GOLF DRIVING RANGE
Director Vraa introduced this item reminding the Commission that they have reviewed this item in the
past but a decision relative to the term for a golf driving range has not been finalized by the Commission. It
was hoped that information from the Parks System Plan Update relative to field needs would have been
available to help the Commission define short term and long term needs for the Lexington/Diffley athletic site.
Since that information was not available as yet the developers of the proposed golf driving range have asked
that a decision be made relative to the contract so they can proceed with their plans in anticipation of opening
the facility in 1994. Ken continued that he has met with Ryan Helgeson and Rick Kuchera regarding the layout
of the driving range on the athletic site based on the results of the grading plan. Although the driving range
can be facilitated on the site, there have been some concerns expressed regarding what impact there will be
in not being able to use all the facilities located on the site, coupled with the potential loss of the Unisys fields
as that property gets sold and developed. The other issue that is unknown at this time is the potential growth
in the numbers of participants expected that will use Eagan facilities over the next several years. It is known
that the growth in youth sports participation has grown dramatically and will continue to increase.
In conclusion Director Vraa identified two issues for the Commission to consider. To review the
reorientation of the golf driving range and the impact it will have on the adjacent property owners and make
a determination on the length of the contract for use of the golf driving range at the Lexington/Diffley site.
Relative to the proposed realignment, Ted Billy asked if golf balls going into neighboring homes would
be a potential problem. Jonathan Widem asked if that was a potential problem would netting be considered.
Mr. Helgeson stated they would prefer not installing netting because of the aesthetics and cost. Director Vraa
added that there is a berm and there will be additional landscaping between the athletic site and the residential
area to the southwest. It was also noted that targets would be provided to help control errant golf balls and
reduce the potential for the golf balls to be hit into the residential neighborhood.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resouces Commission
Minutes of January 6, 1994 Meeting
Page 8
George Kubik expressed his preference for the new proposed alignment which places the driving range
at a northwest to southeast or southeast to northwest orientation on the southwest portion of the site. This
alignment does not impact the six proposed softball fields and would allow for their joint use with the driving
range. Mr. Kubik did share a concern for how long the contract for the driving range should be given the
pressure the City will be facing for athletic facilities in the near future. He opined that careful consideration
should be given to the potential need for these athletic facilities by the community. In response to a question
as to their hours of operation, Rich Kuchera stated this would not be a lighted facility, therefore it is anticipated
the hours of operation will be approximately 7:00 a.m. to dusk.
Stephen Thompson asked what the specific field loss would be if the driving range was developed.
Director Vraa stated that two soccerfields and one overlay will be eliminated with the installation of the driving
range on this site. Ken added that it appears that the need for soccer fields is presently being met but, the
potential for growth is unknown at this time.
Mr. Thompson asked why the length of the contract would be a concern. Director Vraa explained that
with the status of the Unisys fields unknown at this time, along with the growth of participants expected through
1996-97, there may be the potential need to use all of the Lexington/Diffley site. Rick Kuchera clarified that
based on the potential for errant golf balls using the new alignment, the 6th softball field probably could not
be used until after the 4th year of the lease.
Mr. Kubik reiterated his support of this experiment but again cautioned as to the length of the contract
due to projected use of the athletic site. Ted Billy asked if the contract could be approved through 1996 with
an option to continue the driving range if the site is not needed for other athletic uses. Jonathan Widem asked
if it was feasible to have a three year contract. Rick Kuchera stated they needed a four year commitment for
it to be a viable option for them which would take the contract through 1997. Dan Mooradian supported
lengthening the contract through 1997 based on the fact that the softball fields will be able to be used jointly
with the golf driving range.
After further discussion, Dan Mooradian moved, Stephen Thompson seconded a motion to accept the
realignment of the golf driving range, with staff to have the flexibility to work with Mr. Kuchera and Mr.
Helgeson relative to the actual alignment on the site to best suit the needs of the site. The motion continued
that the contract for the golf driving range is to be extended through 1997. Those voting Aye were John
Rudolph, Jonathan Widem, Deborah Johnson, Dan Mooradian, Stephen Thompson, Ted Billy, David Szott and
Lee Markell. George Kubik voted Nay. The motion passed.
Chairman Kubik explained his opposition was based only on the extension of the lease to 1997. He
expressed his support for the golf driving range experiment and wished success for the project.
SIDEWALK REQUEST - BENT TREE LANE
This item was deferred to the February meeting based on the request by the Finks that they be present.
TRAIL CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Director Vraa explained that this is an update for the Commission relative to construction of two
trailway segments being proposed as part of road improvement projects in 1994.
The upgrading of Blackhawk Road from Deerwood north to Highway 13 will provide an opportunity
for an eight foot bituminous trailway along the east side of Blackhawk Road. The construction of the eight foot
bituminous trailway will result in the loss of substantial vegetation in the area between Silver Bell Road and
Robin Lane. The existing four foot sidewalk which currently extends south of Silver Bell Road approximately
800 feet will be removed and replaced with a six foot sidewalk. Ken continued that the six foot wide sidewalk
that extends south of Silver Bell ties into the trailway currently in place on the south side of Silver Bell. Some
of the concerns expressed by residents relative to this improvement included the loss of vegetation along
Blackhawk, the need to extend the proposed east sidewalk all the way to Carnelian Park and the concern for
bikes not using the trails.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resouces Commission
Minutes of January 6, 1994 Meeting
Page 9
Director Vraa noted that Dakota County Highway Department has begun the study of the upgrading
of Yankee Doodle Road from Lexington Avenue to Trunk Highway 149. The City has requested that the design
include an eight foot bituminous trailway on both sides of Yankee Doodle even though the County has
expressed some concern because of the additional road right of way that the County would need to acquire.
A feasibility study is currently being prepared on the upgrading of Dodd Road from Diffley to Cliff
Road. Although the City previously identified a single bituminous trail on the west side of Dodd through this
section, a petition from members of the Pinewood P.T.A. was received requesting consideration forconstructing
trails on both sides of Dodd Road. Director Vraa suggested that the Commission look at these sites to become
familiar with their location.
1994 WORK PROGRAM
Director Vraa explained that the City Council has requested a uniform method for departments to
provide information relative to their on-going responsibilities. The Council has asked that departments list a
maximum of 10 on-going responsibilities and 10 special tasks so they can have an overview of work in progress
and anticipated workloads. The Commission was provided with a draft of the 1994 Work Program for
recreation, parks planning and development, parks maintenance and operations, public facilities/services non-
park,forestry and water quality. Director Vraa asked that they review this information and provide input within
the next few weeks.
PARKS DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
Parks Planner/Landscape Architect C.J. Lilly updated the Commission on the miscellaneous
development issues outstanding. He noted that work is continuing on the Lexington/Diffley site relative to site
analysis. It is expected that the analysis should be completed shortly.
C.J. also noted that the Blackhawk Park entrance sign has been installed and as weather permits, the
retaining wall and landscaping can be completed to enhance the entrance to this park.
SUBCOMMITTEE FOR FISH LAKE DIAGNOSTIC STUDY
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch noted that after two consecutive unsuccessful attempts to secure
grant funding to support development of a comprehensive diagnostic feasibility study and implementation plan
for Fish Lake, the City elected to pursue this work on its own. The City felt the benefits of initiating actions
to protect Fish Lake as early as possible outweighed the costs of financing the development of the study and
implementation plan on its own.
Rich continued that water resources staff has been engaged in an intensive in-lake and watershed data
collection effort since October, 1992. After having hired a consulting firm to help assemble the information,
the City is pursuing an aggressive time schedule in an effort to submit a draft report to the MnPCA for technical
review by July 1, 1994 and then apply for implementation grant funds in late October. In an effort to provide
adequate public review, two public meetings are scheduled to gather input from residents. Rich added that
on-going participation from the Natural Resources Subcommittee would be helpful to provide advise on public
policy issues that may arise and act as a sounding board in determining which elements to include as part of
the implementation plan.
In response to a question relative to the number of meetings involved in this process, Mr. Brasch
responded there would be a need for 2-4 meetings over the next six months. Chairman Kubik suggested
scheduling a meeting of the Natural Resources Subcommittee when other meeting times are being set up later
in the agenda.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resouces Commission
Minutes of January 6, 1994 Meeting
Page 10
After further discussion, Dan Mooradian moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting
in favor to authorize staff to work with the Natural Resources Subcommittee in completing the Fish Lake
diagnostic/feasibility study and implementation plan. They further authorized the inclusion of the CLMP
volunteer for Fish Lake in subcommittee meetings regarding the Fish Lake project.
OAK WILT UPDATE
Director Vraa explained that the City Council authorized a special appropriation of $29,910 to the
1994 forestry operating budget to be directed towards oak wilt. The dollars are to be used for prevention and
education, control measures and reforestation of oak resources. Ken noted that although there is no
Commission action required on this item, it was being provided as follow-up information since the Commission
had taken such a pro-active stand on the control and reduction of oak wilt.
Chairman Kubik asked if the aerial photographs that had been done could be used for other purposes.
Superintendent VonDeLinde responded that there may be a use for both water quality issues and for the
computerized GIS system being established.
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS
Items highlighted included the significant increase in EAA participation since 1986, participation by
staff in the Dakota Youth and Families Conference, mailing of the Community Festival survey, and receipt of
bids for three pond modification projects.
FUTURE MEETINGS
Director Vraa advised the Commission of a meeting with Barry Warner of Barton Aschman Associates
on Monday, January 31 at 7 p.m. to review the Park System Plan Update. Ken also noted that a joint meeting
has been scheduled with the City Council for Tuesday, February 22 but the time has not been determined as
yet. A reminder will be sent to Commission Members prior to both the January 31 and February 22 meeting.
Mr. Vraa also advised the Commission that in order to facilitate the development process, the Advisory
Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission meeting will be changed to the Monday preceding the
2nd City Council meeting. To help with this change, staff will provide an on-going calendar for Commission
Members outlining not only regularly scheduled Commission meetings but any workshops and joint meetings
that require the attendance of Commission Members. This calendar will be incorporated with the packet each
month.
Director Vraa asked if the Commission would like to combine a meeting of the Natural Resources
Subcommittee relative to the Fish Lake Diagnostic/Feasibility Study followed by a meeting with Dakota County.
Ken reminded the Commission that Dakota County representatives would like to meet with the Advisory Parks,
Recreation and Natural Resources Commission in an effort to review joint projects and review services/facilities
being offered by both entities. Rich Brasch suggested sending a written report to the Natural Resources
Subcommittee along with a schedule and background of the issues that will need to be discussed and then
schedule a meeting in March since the data is due on March 23. Chairman Kubik confirmed that would be
a good way of handling the meetings for the Natural Resources Subcommittee, however, he suggested that the
meeting with Dakota County be discussed at the February Commission meeting when a new Commission will
be in attendance.
Another meeting Director Vraa reminded the Commission they had requested was a joint Advisory
Planning/Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission meeting. It was suggested that this
meeting could occur in late February or early March.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resouces Commission
Minutes of January 6, 1994 Meeting
Page 11
Director Vraa explained that the 1994-1998 Capital Improvements Plan is nearing completion.
Although it was hoped that input from the Park System Plan could be incorporated, a copy of the CIP without
that information, will be sent to Commission Members for their review and input.
MISSION STATEMENT
This item was deferred to the February, 1994 meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to discuss, Lee Markell moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members
voted in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
2-/-V
Se etary Date