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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. so /9 99y _"Owe cretary 61 Date