07/18/1994 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
July 18, 1994
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called
to order at 7:00 p. m. on July 18, 1994 with the following Commission Members present: Sherie Wallace, John
Rudolph, Ted Billy, Lee Markell, Ken Tyler, David Szott, George Kubik and Jonathan Widem. Commission
Member Vincent was 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
Architect/Parks Planner; Gregg Hove, Forestry Supervisor; Mike Ridley, Project Planner and Cherryl Mesko,
Secretary.
AGENDA
John Rudolph moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to approve the
agenda as presented.
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF JUNE 20, 1994
George Kubik moved, Ken Tyler seconded with all members voting in favor to approve the minutes
of the June 20, 1994 meeting as presented.
VISITORS TO BE HEARD
In response to a question by Chairman Markell as to whether there were visitors in the audience who
would like to address an issue not on the agenda, Brenda Brenberg, 4714 Walden Drive, requested that the
neighbors surrounding Walden Heights Park be provided with an update of their request for a developed park
which they made at the June 20 Advisory Commission meeting. Ms. Brenberg continued that Parks Planner
Lilly had been at the site recently and the neighbors wanted to ensure that they could have input into what was
being planned for the park.
Director Vraa explained that the Acquisition and Development Sub-committee had reviewed the
Walden Heights Park request recently and had planned to address this issue when the item appeared later on
the agenda. As background, Vraa continued, a preliminary plat application was received for the land west of
Walden Heights park with a conceptual park identified once the land proceeded to final plat and development.
Since the preliminary plat did not proceed at that time, plans were not able to continue for full development
of Walden Heights Park. The biggest question appeared to be whether it was possible, or feasible, to develop
only that portion of the park that is currently City owned before knowing what the impact would be of future
land acquisition for the park. Director Vraa explained that Parks Planner/Landscape Architect Lilly would look
at what possible options exist for developing a portion of the site, but cautioned that staff is not in a position
presently to expend a great deal of time in designing alternatives. Ken noted that October would most likely
be the earliest time design work could be considered for this park.
Responding to the initial park design overlay as presented in 1987, Ms. Brenberg responded that there
would be no way to place a soccer field in this park because of the potential for tree loss. Director Vraa
reiterated that that is the City's biggest concern in attempting to develop only a portion of this park prior to
additional land being acquired. Commission Chair Markell asked what type of facilities the neighborhood
envisioned for this park. Ms. Brenberg commented that this park has been unusable for 11 years and wanted
to see some development occur soon. When Commission Chair MarkelI asked if the residents were interested
in a play structure, Ms. Brenberg commented that an open play field should be a minimum amenity.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 18, 1994 Meeting
Page 2
Responding to what the process would be, Director Vraa commented that an assessment of the property
would be completed followed by a meeting with the neighborhood to determine what their program
requirements would be for the park. Once that input is received, staff can proceed with design options to bring
back to the neighborhood. Mr.Markell noted that neighborhoods are very much involved in park design and
development and that staff has always welcomed and encouraged input.
John Brenberg asked how this particular request would impact the Park System Plan Update that is
being drafted and reviewed currently. Director Vraa responded that the Plan does not deal with the specific
design of individual parks, rather it provides an overview of facilities and uses within parks.
Responding to a question regarding acquisition of the land west of the park, Director Vraa stated that
the City typically acquires land through parkland dedication rather than through purchase. Understanding that
staff will be making some general assumptions relative to future land acquisition, Director Vraa wanted the
neighborhood to be aware that even if an overall park proposal was identified, the possibility exists that that
is not what the actual land acquisition would be, resulting in a change in the overall park layout.
John Brenberg asked for clarification as to a time frame for design and input to the neighborhood.
Director Vraa assured the residents that as part of the design process, site analysis (inventory of site conditions)
would be the first phase followed by a neighborhood meeting. It is expected that a neighborhood meeting
could be held in October and that all affected and surrounding neighbors would be notified by mail of the
meeting.
Commission Member Markell suggested that the residents identify a core group representing a good
cross section of opinions that can work through the whole process with City staff. Director Vraa also noted
that during the planning process for this park, it is important for the residents to be aware of the budget
constraints connected with park development. Commission Member Billy added that since it is unknown when
additional land will be acquired for this park, the Advisory Commission would caution residents' expectations
for full development.
Carol Polkowski, 4706 Walden Drive explained that she didn't feel safe having children cross major
intersections to get to a park. She felt strongly that the park needed to be developed immediately.
Bob Cochran, 4863 Richard Lane opined that this was not a single neighborhood issue. He expressed
his concern for the busy intersections, coupled with the hill on Pilot Knob Road which diminishes site lines,
which make it difficult for people to access Ohmann Park on the east side of Pilot Knob.
Paul Cero, 4876 Richard Lane reiterated how dangerous it is for children to cross either Pilot Knob or
Cliff Road to access a park and encouraged building the park in stages rather than respond to a potential
tragedy. He asked that the Commission consider moving forward with park development as soon as possible.
Susan Peterson, 4879 Richard Lane added that she has seen children fall off their bikes crossing Cliff
Road and expressed her concern for their safe access to parks. She also supported partial development of
Walden Heights Park as soon as possible. Understanding the multiple priorities the City has for park
development, Ms. Peterson suggested that the neighborhood could provide several volunteers who would help
with this park.
Tim Worke, 4854 Richard Lane indicated that he has had conversations with Dakota County and has
been advised that there will be no pedestrian access via the viaduct that was installed. This access seems to
have been provided for horse traffic that ties into Lebanon Hills Regional Park, he opined. Mr. Worke felt
strongly that pedestrian access linking parks should be a high priority for the City and County.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 18, 1994 Meeting
Page 3
Todd Johnson, 1479 Thomas Lane stated he had some concerns for partial development of this park.
He stated that although he supports a playground and grassy open area, he did not want to see private land
used as pubic access to the park and expressed his concern as to how this "first phase" park would be accessed.
He also wanted to ensure that there would be some type of buffer between homes and the play area. Director
Vraa responded that Mr. Johnson had a valid concern.
Commission Chair Markell thanked the residents for their input and involvement in their neighborhood
park and noted that they would be notified of a meeting in October following the site analysis work.
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS
Items highlighted included use of auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities during summer
programming; $2,200 in concessions income during a recent week end tournament; EAA softball and baseball
are into their play-offs; over 200 children are participating in the T-Ball program for 5 year olds and 6 & 7 year
olds; the tree inspector has been busy with both dutch elm and oak wilt disease; the City has received a
$320,000 grant from the Metropolitan Council for the river crossing trail along Nicols Road and the Twin City
Tree Trust completed the reconstruction of a timber stairway at Berry Patch Park.
CONSENT AGENDA
George Kubik 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 the following
proposals:
1. Fiala Addition This plat would be subject to a cash parks dedication, a cash trails dedication
and a cash dedication to satisfy water quality requirements. An individual lot tree preservation
would also be required to be submitted at the time of building permit.
2. Red Oaks - Brad Stricker This plat would be subject to a cash parks dedication, a cash trails
dedication and a cash dedication to satisfy water quality requirements. An individual lot tree
preservation would also be required to be submitted at the time of building permit.
3. Easter Addition - Arcon Development This plat would be subject to a cash trails dedication
and a cash dedication to satisfy water quality requirements. The tree preservation plan as
submitted would be approved requiring the developerto transplant ten existing non-significant
trees (5 ash and 5 spruce) and to purchase and plant one additional Category B tree as
mitigation for tree loss. The Advisory Commission is also asking that consideration be given
to considering nine foot wide parking stalls.
4. Yankee Plaza - M.G. Astleford This plat would be subject to a cash parks dedication, a cash
trails dedication and a cash dedication to satisfy water quality requirements. There is no tree
preservation plan required for this development.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 18, 1994 Meeting
Page 4
EDGEWATER PLACE
Director Vraa introduced this item as a request from Royal Oaks to rezone 1.14 acres from agricultural
to R-1 single family in a preliminary plat consisting of 19 lots on 13.5 acres. This development is located north
of Cliff Road, east of Highway 3 and west of Inver Grove Heights in the southeast 1/4 of Section 25. Director
Vraa continued that this site is located in Park Service Section 25E with Holz Farm Park and South Oaks Park
being the closest parks serving the proposed residential neighborhood. A joint park with Inver Grove Heights
was discussed with a previous proposed development, however that community was not showing a park in this
location in their overall park plan. Access to this development would be on Cliff Road with future plans to
provide for trailways o Cliff from Highway 3 west.
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch explained that this development will generate runoff that will be
discharged to Pond LP-30, a 10 acre state designated protected water classified for indirect contact recreation.
Modeling indicates that runoff from the proposed development would degrade the water quality of this pond
thus, staff is recommending that all runoff draining to this pond be treated with an on-site pond that meets City
standards for depth and wet volume. Staff has recommended the construction of a two-cell detention basin
along the rear of Lot 15 with a total wet volume of at least .75 acre-feet and a minimum average depth of 2.6
feet and constructed according to City design guidelines.
Relative to wetlands, Mr. Brasch continued that there are three on site and that no filling or draining
of wetlands is being proposed as part of the development of the site. A requirement to maintain a buffer of
natural vegetation extending 30 feet inland from the ordinary high water mark of Pond LP-30 is being
recommended also. Where excavation of the detention basin will encroach on this buffer zone, a strip of
natural vegetation between the detention basin and Pond LP-30 should be maintained.
Forestry Supervisor Hove noted that the total number of significant trees on site is 255. With the
development of this site, 212 trees would need to be removed or 83% of the total. As this removal far exceeds
the Tree Preservation Policy, mitigation would equate to 211 Category A trees or 422 Category B trees, or 844
CategoryC trees. Supervisor Hove explained that this is more trees than could be placed on the site and allow
for development to occur. It was noted that this is a unique situation in that the mitigation for the tree loss
cannot be accomplished on the site and allow the site to be developed. Supervisor Hove noted that the
developer has worked cooperatively in trying to mitigate the impact of tree loss.
Commission Member Kubik clarified that although the developer was making a good attempt to
mitigate tree loss it did not adhere to the Tree Preservation Policy which would require more substantial
mitigation. Member Kubik asked that if the developer could not replace all the trees on site could some trees
be moved and transplanted to other public property. Supervisor Hove responded that there would be
approximately 30-50 trees that were of a quality that could be moved. Member Kubik suggested that more
negotiations should occur to balance the mitigation of the substantial tree loss on this site more evenly. George
clarified that he was not particularly referring to full replacement, however, he felt that the developer should
be making more effort toward mitigation based on the existing Tree Preservation Policy.
Commission Member Markell asked if consideration could be given to providing a conservation/trail
easement around Pond LP-30. He expressed his concern for lots abutting water bodies and would like to see
a larger buffer between them. Member Markell opined that a 50-75 foot buffer around Pond JP-30 would be
beneficial for maintaining the vegetation. He also noted that it would be beneficial to provide the potential
for a trail that could tie into the railroad bed adjacent to the property. In expressing his concern for tree loss,
Mr. Markell asked if it would be feasible for the access to the site to be changed to allow for less tree loss.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 18, 1994 Meeting
Page 5
Mike Black, representing the developer, explained that he has worked with staff very diligently to
resolve any issues they have had relative to this plat. He noted that access to the property was pre-determined
and in order for this development to occur, the only access that was to be allowed was that shown in the plan.
Mr. Black felt that the developer has provided a good plan for reforestation and have provided substantial
screening on the site although it does not completely comply with the Tree Preservation Policy as it exists.
They would be willing to look at what trees on the site can be transplanted and would work cooperatively with
the City to that end.
Relative to a trail around the pond, Mr. Black responded that at no time had staff indicated this would
be a possible consideration and since this was the first time he was hearing about it, stated the developer would
be opposed to providing the trail. The main reason for opposition, Mr. Black continued, was that a portion
of the pond is located in Inver Grove Heights.
In discussing the buffer around the wetland, Mr. Black indicated that he would be agreeable to a 30
foot buffer but would not agree with a 50-75 buffer that would also involve a trail. Mr. Black asked that these
two issues, since he was just hearing about them, not affect the continuation of this item on to the Advisory
Planning Commission and City Council. He stated he would work with staff on adding trees to the landscape
plan but would not move trees onto other City property.
Member Kubik clarified that although staff provides the Advisory Commission with extensive reports
and information, it is the Advisory Commission that makes recommendations to the City Council, not City staff.
Member Markel) clarified that he had no concerns with the landscape plan, rather was looking at how the
developer, staff and Commission could look at further mitigation for tree loss as well as the possibility for a
potential trail around the pond and wetland.
Commission Member Widem stated that he felt the landscape plan provided was sufficient and that
the developer had made an honest attempt to keep the site aesthetically pleasing, but would also like to see
further mitigation for tree removal. Member Kubik added that possible further negotiations could resolve the
issue and that he understood that every site is unique. Mr. Black responded that although he did understand
the need for consistency, he felt this was a unique situation. Commission Member Tyler recognized Mr. Black's
concerns but agreed that the Tree Preservation Policy needed to be handled consistently. Member Markell
suggested that the developer meet with staff and the Natural Resources Sub-committee to resolve these two
issues. Mr. Black stated he did not want the process delayed for an additional month since they had hoped
to grade the site yet this year.
Commission Member Rudolph stated that the current Tree Preservation Policy was fair and equitable
but felt that he would like further information before proceeding with a decision on this development. Member
Szott reiterated the need to provide consistent guidelines for the Policy and was not in favor of compromising
it. He suggested that they may be other options that have not been discussed rather than removing literally all
the trees from the site. Member Widem stated he did not have enough information and supported deferring
these two items to the Natural Resources sub-committee. Member Billy stated that the developer had made
a good faith effort in working with staff. Although he supported the setback from the pond, he felt it was a little
late in the process to be introducing this to the developer. Mr. Billy felt that if a meeting was to occur it should
happen so that the developer could appear before the Advisory Planning Commission as scheduled.
After further discussion it was decided to refer the tree preservation issue and trail around the pond
issue to the Natural Resources sub-committee who would meet with the developer and staff on Thursday, July
21 at 4:30 pm. The entire development proposal would then come back to the Advisory Parks, Recreation and
Natural Resources Commission at their August 15 meeting.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 18, 1994 Meeting
Page 6
VANTAGE POINT/CAPONI
Director Vraa explained that the Acquisition/Development sub-committee met on June 28 to discuss
the Vantage Point subdivision. A draft position statement was prepared for the Advisory Planning Commission,
as they had requested, making it reasonably clear that the APRNRC does not support a residential development
for this parcel based on the concept that a public street be brought through park property. The sub-committee
felt that if the parcel was to be developed, a maximum of four lots would allow the use of the 16 foot easement
rather than a public street.
After hearing support from Commission Members for the draft memo to the Advisory Planning
Commission, Ted Billy moved, George Kubik seconded, with all members voting in favor, to approve the draft
memo to the Advisory Planning Commission relative to Vantage Point and directed that Commission Chair
Markell sign the letter and forward it onto the Advisory Planning Commission.
MISSION STATEMENT
George Kubik moved, Ken Tyler seconded with all members voting in favor to adopt the following draft
mission statement for the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission:
To preserve and enhance ecologically diverse open space throughout the City of Eagan, continue parks
development and provide high quality active, educational and environmental opportunities to meet
current and future needs and interests of a diverse and changing population.
HOLZ FARM PROPERTY
Superintendent VonDeLinde shared a video highlighting the Holz Farm Park site. Director Vraa
indicated that with Commission approval, staff will meet with the City Council for approval to proceed with
an offer to purchase the Holz Farm property for $150,000.
After a brief discussion, George Kubik moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor
to endorse the acquisition price for the Holz Farm property.
PARKS DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Lilly updated the Commission on several construction projects
including the Lexington Diffley Athletic Site, Wescott Commons, Blackhawk Park, Bur Oaks Park north, and
Sky Hill observation deck. Director Vraa added that the observation deck at Sky Hill Park was being done
through the Tree Trust program.
FISH LAKE PUBLIC INFORMATION SUMMARY
Commission Member Widem suggested tabling this issue since the Commission would not be able to
tour the site this evening. Coordinator Brasch noted that he would be looking to the Commission for approval
of this item at the August 15 meeting. Mr. Widem suggested touring this site prior to the August meeting.
As an update, Coordinator Brasch noted that the public information meeting had approximately 50-60
people attending after having sent out 500 notices and advertising in the local papers. Those in attendance,
however, provided good input during the 3-1/2 hour meeting. Rich noted there was a great deal of discussion
as to why the City storm water system was done the way it was. In conclusion, Coordinator Brasch noted that
it was a very successful meeting and that it would be appropriate for the Natural Resources subcommittee to
meet prior to the August Commission meeting.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 18, 1994 Meeting
Page 7
1995 ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW
Superintendent of Recreation Peterson provided a brief report to the Commission regarding a potential
arts and crafts festival in 1995. The Department is involved in the preliminary meetings along with other
agencies such as the Convention and Visitors Bureau. Additional information will be provided to the
Commission as this opportunity becomes more formalized, Dorothy noted.
METROPOLITAN REGIONAL FOREST RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN
Parks Superintendent VonDeLinde provided Commission members with a brief background and
summary report of the Metro Region Forest Resource Management Plan which was completed by the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources.
BUR OAKS PARK ACCESS LETTER
Director Vraa introduced this item as a request from Bur Oaks Park neighbors to gain access to the park
from their residential area. Superintendent VonDeLinde explained that an access exists between two homes
but leads to a heavily wooded, steep area before access can be gained to Bur Oaks Park. The residents are
requesting a subtle neighborhood access that would not be signed for the public and staff is looking at possible
alternatives to bring some type of access into the park.
WALDEN HEIGHTS PARK
This item was discussed under "Visitors to be Heard" earlier in the agenda.
ROUND TABLE
Director Vraa asked that Commission Members review the draft of the Park System Plan Update they
have received and provide input to staff within the next fourteen days. In order to cover all sections of the
plan, Commission members were assigned the following chapters to review and return: Chapter 1, Staff;
Chapter 2, Sherie Wallace; Chapter 3, David Szott; Chapter 4, Ken Tyler; Chapter 5,Stephen Thompson;
Chapter 6, John Rudolph; Chapter 7, Natural Resources; Chapter 8, George Kubik; Chapter 9, Michael Vincent;
Chapter 10, Lee Markell; Chapter 11, Ted Billy; Chapter 12, All.
Director Vraa noted that there would be an Open House at the Caponi Art Park on August 6 and 7
from noon to 4 p.m. Commission Members are invited to participate.
With no further business to conduct, George Kubik moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all
members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:15 p.m.
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