Loading...
01/12/1995 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA January 12, 1995 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:00 pm on January 12, 1995 with the following Commission Members present: Lee Markell, Jonathan Widem, Stephen Thompson, Ted Billy, John Rudolph, Sherie Wallace, Ken Tyler, David Szott and Michael Vincent. Member George Kubik was not present. Staff present included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation, Rich Brasch, Water Resources Coordinator; 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 accept the agenda as presented. MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF DECEMBER 19, 1995 John Rudolph moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes as presented. DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS Some items highlighted by Director Vraa included moving the bandy program to Pilot Knob Park, windscreens have been ordered for the Birch pod tennis courts at Northview Park with the City logo on one of the panels, a grant application will be submitted to the Otto Bremer Foundation to purchase a van for Youth Development programming, the purchase of the Holz Farm has been completed and the outdoor rinks have experienced some difficulty in opening due to the unseasonably warm weather. Member Markell complimented staff on the completion of the Holz Farm acquisition. AWARD OF APPRECIATION - TED BILLY Chairman Markell presented a placque to Ted Billy in appreciation of contributions to the Commission for the past 6-1/2 years. Member Billy thanked the Commission for the recognition stating he felt he had gained more than he had contributed as a member of the Commission. Ted continued that he was impressed with the commitment of staff and the Commission to provide an outstanding park system to Eagan residents and concluded that with the unselfish time commitment of the Commission members, he expected to see the good work continued in the future. CONSENT AGENDA Jonathan Widem moved, Stephen Thompson seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to Rahn Cliff 4th Addition: 1. There are no significant trees located on the site. 2. The developer shall maintain an ungraded, natural buffer at least 20 feet back from the normal water level of Pond AP-44. 3. This development is not subject to any further water quality requirements. 4. This development shall be responsible for a cash parks dedication. 5. This development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of January 12, 1995 Meeting Page 2 DEERWOOD TOWNHOMES - GOOD VALUE HOMES After a brief introduction by Director Vraa, Project Planner Ridley explained that Good Value Homes is requesting approval of a rezoning of 7.74 acres and a Preliminary Subdivision consisting of 37 lots at the northeast intersection of 1-35E and Deerwood Drive. Planner Ridley continued that this project provides 4.7 units per acre density. The Utility Plan submitted is acceptable and the applicant has petitioned the City for a public improvement that will extend sanitary sewer and water main to this site from the east. The applicant is proposing a private loop street for internal access and circulation. In conclusion, Planner Ridley noted that the proposed development is consistent with the requested rezoning and the existing Comprehensive Land Use Guide Plan Designation and it appears the land use and density appear to be compatible with the subject site and anticipated development of the surrounding property. Water Resources Coordinator Brasch noted that there is one apparent wetland on site, but evidence was provided by the developer and approved by staff, that supports an exemption from regulations under the WCA. Relative to water quality, Coordinator Brasch stated that a cash dedication should be required for any shortfall in treatment provided by pond BP-33. Forestry Supervisor Hove stated that the Tree Preservation Plan is acceptable as presented. There are 32 significant trees located on the site and the plan calls for 3 of those trees to be removed, which is slightly under 1% removal. Ken Tyler expressed concern about the grading of the site since there appears to be a lot of cut and fill required. John Peterson, representing Good Value Homes responded that although there would be some significant cuts on the site the final grade would be 3/1 or flatter. Planner Ridley confirmed that it is his understanding that the site will be relatively flat once it's graded. Member Rudolph asked if there would be berming or a buffer of trees between the homes and 35E. Planner Ridley responded that although there would be some berming, the developer needs to be careful not to change the drainage on the site. After further discussion, Stephen Thompson moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to Deerwood Townhomes: 1. The Tree Preservation Plan is acceptable as presented. 2. This development would be subject to a cash parks dedication. 3. This development would be subject to a cash trails dedication. 4. There are no jurisdictional wetlands on this site. 5. This development would be subject to a cash water quality requirement for any shortfall in treatment provided by pond BP-33. RIDGECLIFF WOODS -LGA INVESTMENT GROUP, INC. After a brief introduction by Director Vraa, Planner Ridley explained this request is fora rezoning of 3 acres and a preliminary subdivision consisting of 8 lots on 4.3 acres located on the south side of Cliff Road just east of Lenore Lane. Ridley concluded that the plan was consistent with surrounding properties with a density of 1.9 unitstacre. Coordinator Brasch stated the storm drainage plan is acceptable. The developer is proposing to construct a storm sewer system that will collect runoff from the streets and front yards and then drain it into the pond at the northwest corner at the site (Pond BP-31). Any shortfall in treatment of storm water by pond BP-31 should be made up through a cash water quality dedication. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of January 12, 1995 Meeting Page 3 Brasch also explained that the grading plan calls for approximately 4 feet of fill to be placed along the northerly edge of the pond to the south (Pond BP-32). To protect the vegetation and trees and to control erosion into the pond, the developer should provide a 30 foot natural, ungraded buffer strip back from the normal water level along the north edge of the pond. Forestry Supervisory Hove stated the Tree Preservation Plan submitted was unacceptable. The site is completely tree covered and the significant aspen woodlands have not been identified on the plan. The developer has revised the plan to reduce the tree loss from 45.5% to 37.5% which exceeds the 25% allowed removal for the first phase of development; however, the 37.5% represents total tree loss because the developer is proposing to install utilities, construct the street, and clear the house pads all in one phase. The Plan does not reflect the additional tree loss that will occur by the required utility and possible street extension on the east edge of the site. It is staff's recommendation that the developer revise the Plan to incorporate the impact of the utility/street extension and also provide information on the significant woodlands on site that have been verified in the field by staff. Wayne Tauer, Pioneer Engineering, representing LGA Investment Group, Inc. stated the developer prefers to provide a cul-de-sac on this site rather than a through street as the City is requesting. Asking if the Commission deals with the through street issue, Mr. Tauer commented that the cul-de-sac would impact significantly less trees than the through street. The developer feels they have done a good job with tree preservation considering the limiting design capabilities of the site. Jim Waters, LGA Investment Group, Inc. stated they are very sensitive to tree issues and feel they did an excellent job in saving trees. They are open to mitigation and will work with staff to resolve those issues. The extension of the street would result in greater tree loss than the cul-de-sac Mr. Waters concluded. John Rudolph asked if the cul-de-sac were approved, could another cul-de-sac be brought in from the east. Planner Ridley responded that this suggestion was brought up by the developer, however staff was concerned about the long length of a potential cul-de-sac from the east. Jonathan Widem asked what the tree loss difference would be between the cul-de-sac and the through street. Supervisor Hove responded that 7-9 trees can be preserved with the road extension. Ken Tyler opined that the Advisory Planning Commission should be considering the cul-de-sac/through street. Mr. Tauer stated the developer would like the support of the APRNRC for a cul-de-sac road before going to the Advisory Planning Commission. Member Markell opined there were natural resource advantages in providing 2 cul-de- sacs. Jonathan Widem commented that he would like the discussion to focus on tree preservation and natural resource issues since that is the charge of this Commission. His concern was that the developer was exceeding the 25% tree removal requirement and asked if trees being removed could be transplanted on site. Mr. Widem expressed his preference for transplanting larger trees but was unsure if they would survive such a disturbance. Supervisor Hove responded that it is difficult to transplant large trees and have them survive. Mr. Hove applauded the efforts of the developer in working on this development but reiterated that the Plan submitted was incomplete at this time. Mr. Tauer asked what other information was needed. Mr. Hove responded that the significant woodlands on site need to be identified. Member Widem concurred that a Plan should be submitted per the guidelines of the Tree Preservation Plan. As a point of clarification, Ken Tyler noted that if 25% are allowed to be removed in the first phase of development, how much more loss would be allowed during the second phase. Supervisor Hove responded that during the initial development, 25% is the allowable percentage of tree removal while during the 2nd phase, (lot development) 20% of the remaining trees can be removed. Mr. Water responded that based on that criteria, their plans are actually underthe allowable tree removal. Member Widem clarified that although 25% is the allowed removal during the first phase, the Commission has, in the past, held fast to the 25% removal whether it be forthe first phase orfull phase. Wayne Tauer responded that it appears developers who complete the grading and lot preparation at one time are penalized for doing a complete job. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of January 12, 1995 Meeting Page 4 Member Markell stated his support for the cul-de-sac layout as was presented by the developer. Stephen Thompson responded that the street is an issue for the Advisory Planning Commission to resolve, however, the impact of tree preservation would be a relevant issue in making a recommendation to the Advisory Planning Commission. Member Vincent opined that the Commission should approve/disapprove the development that is presented and let the Advisory Planning Commission review the issues involved and make their recommendations. Member Szott added that if the plan is approved by the Commission as presented, it would include the cul-de-sac design. After further discussion, Ted Billy moved, Stephen Thompson seconded that both the cul-de-sac and street proposal be submitted but that the Commission does not endorse either plan. Those voting Aye included Ted Billy, Stephen Thompson and Michael Vincent. Those voting Nay included Jonathan Widem, Sherie Wallace, John Rudolph, Lee Markell, David Szott and Ken Tyler. The motion did not pass. Lee Markell moved, Jonathan Widem seconded to make the following recommendations to the Advisory Planning Commission and City Council relative to Ridgecliff Woods, as presented by staff: 1. The developer shall provide a 30 foot vegetative, ungraded buffer strip from the normal water level along the north edge of Pond BP-32. 2. The developer shall pay a cash water quality dedication for any shortfall in storm water treatment of Pond BP-31. 3. The Tree Preservation Plan is unacceptable and will require that the developer provide information on the significant woodlands on site that have been verified in the field by staff. 4. This development would be responsible for a cash parks dedication. 5. This development would be responsible for a cash trails dedication. Those voting Aye included Jonathan Widem, Sherie Wallace, Lee Markell, David Szott, Ken Tyler, Stephen Thompson and Michael Vincent. Those voting Nay included John Rudolph and Ted Billy. The motion passed. BLACKHAWK FOREST - MAPLEWOOD DEVELOPMENT, INC. Following a brief introduction by Director Vraa, Project Planner Ridley explained this request for a Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment, Rezoning from R-3 to R-1 Variances to R-1 setback requirements and a Preliminary Subdivision consisting of 59 lots on 38 acres north of Silver Bell Road, east of Highway 13, west of Blackhawk Road and along either side of Robin Lane. The proposed subdivision will be compatible with existing single family development to the east and should be compatible with the established townhouse development to the south. Water Resources Coordinator Brasch explained that the Natural Resources sub-committee had reviewed this item extensively during their meeting. Relative to water quality, Coordinator Brasch explained that the developer had done an excellent job to minimize impact. Although the developer has expressed a willingness to work with staff to make changes, a revised site plan incorporating those changes will need to be submitted. The amount of water quality cash dedication, if there is one, will depend on the final configuration of the storm drainage system and ponding areas. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of January 12, 1995 Meeting Page 5 Relative to wetlands, Coordinator Brasch explained there are several on site and the developer is proposing to fill certain areas and expand other areas The developer will also need to provide temporary sedimentation basins to collect and trap sediments before the overland water discharges into the existing wetlands. These temporary basins would be removed after the vegetation is established on the site and diversion disks should be added to keep the off-site areas from draining across the disturbed areas. Coordinator Brasch reviewed five specific issues that need to be resolved before the wetlands plan is acceptable. Forestry Supervisor Hove, noting that this is a very diverse site, explained that the developer has reduced the tree removal on site from 41.5% to 28.3%. Although the mitigation required for the 28.3% is 72 category trees, the developer is proposing replacement with 176 category A and B trees. A representative of Maplewood Development explained that they have been working on this site for one year. They concentrate on in-fill development and this site appeared to be perfect for this type of development. When the property was zoned R-3, it was felt that the developer would not be able to meet the tree preservation and wetland issues of the site. The current proposal provides for 28% tree removal during development and 9% thereafter. The reforestation plan will include evergreens in the back yards, berming and plantings to screen from Hwy 13. Member Markell asked if there could be a conservation easement around the pond and the developer expressed support for the idea and would work with staff to provide the appropriate language for it. The developer noted that by moving the setback to 20 feet, several more trees have been able to be saved. John Rudolph asked if a variance to a 20' setback was common. Planner Ridley responded that it has been done in the past to preserve woodlands. In response to a question by Member Markell about the possibility of moving the road alignment to the west, Ken Adolph, consulting engineer for the developer, stated that moving the road west would result in the loss of 2 lots which the developer would not be in favor of. The developer responded that their first goal in working with the parcel of land was to work around the trees. To accommodate that, they changed the zoning from R-3 to R-1. There is the possibility that Lot 6, Block 2 may be lost because of the way the pipeline crosses the center of the lot. The developer would not be receptive to any further reduction of lots in this development. Commenting that the developer has done an excellent job in working with staff to resolve any outstanding issues, Jonathan Widem moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favorto make the following recommendations to the Advisory Planning Commission and City Council relative to Blackhawk Forest: 1. This development shall be responsible for a cash parks dedication. 2. This development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication. 3. The developer shall install fencing at the critical root zone ( a distance of one foot away from the tree trunk for every inch in diameter as measured 54' above grade) around all trees depicted on the Tree Preservation Plan to be saved. 4. The developer shall contact the City so an inspection can be performed of the preventive measures installed prior to any site grading, trenching, filling, compaction, or change in soil chemistry taking place. 5. The developer shall provide 176 category A and B trees for tree preservation mitigation. 6. The developer shall provide a 30 foot natural ungraded buffer strip along the edge of each wetland. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of January 12, 1995 Meeting Page 6 7. The wetland mitigation area adjacent to Wetland Basin 3 should be dropped because it does not appear to meet Wetland Conservation Act criteria for the use of stormwater detention basins as wetland replacement. If needed, this mitigation area should be located adjacent to other basins in the plat that do not receive direct stormwater discharge. 8. Because they will be expanded to satisfy wetland replacement requirements, wetland basins 2, 5, and 6 should not receive any direct discharge from the storm sewer system. 9. The wetland replacement plan submitted with the plat application is incomplete. A correct and complete replacement plan must be received by staff no later than Wednesday, January 25, 1995 in order to allow sufficient time for public review of the application prior to a City Council decision regarding approval of the plat on February 21, 1995. 10. There are several areas adjacent to wetland basins 2, 3, 5 and 10 where grading contours are shown up to the wetland boundary. These are areas where unintended wetland filling could occur in violation of the WCA. The developer should address specifically how unintended filling of wetland areas due to erosion will be prevented in these locations. 11. The developer shall avoid discharging raw stormwater into Pond AP-27. 12. The developer shall route the discharge from Pond AP-27 directly to the storm trunk in Robin Lane instead of to the proposed stormwater basin in wetland basin 3. 13. After development of the site is completed, developer shall eliminate the pre-treatment basin adjacent to the wetland basin 3 stormwater treatment pond. 14. The developer shall increase the wet pond volume of the stormwater treatment basin associated with wetland basin 3 by excavation as per water resources staff direction. 15. Developer shall route raw runoff from Deer Pond Circle and the eastern segment of Brown Bear Trail either to the proposed stormwater basin north of wetland basin 5 or directly to the trunk stormsewer in Robin Lane, if feasible. 16. The proposed pre-treatment basin for stormwater runoff discharged to Pond AP-38 from the western segment of Brown Bear Trail should be eliminated, since it is very small and poorly located. WATER RESOURCES UPDATE Coordinator Brasch reminded the Commission that they had recommended staff pursue a project with residents surrounding Pond JP-55. Staff would work with residents in the drainage area and try an alum experiment if the support is there. Mr. Jeff Horn, a neighbor who backs up to the pond, has agreed to spearhead the residents participation in this project. Mr. Horn stated he originally wanted the pond to be dredged, however he is willing to see if an experimental alum treatment might be beneficial. If it does not work, Mr. Horn indicated he would like to re-visit the issue of dredging the pond with residents participating in a cost sharing effort, if necessary. Coordinator Brasch explained that education for this pilot program would begin soon and run through summer. The alum treatment may be used dependent upon resident participation in the pilot program. Mr. Horn stated he was willing to promote this process in the future. If this program is successful, he would like to be a part of continued education/participation projects with other groups. Member Wallace pointed out that this is the type of neighborhood/business partnerships the City should be encouraging. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of January 12, 1995 Meeting Page 7 OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS Director Vraa stated that bids for the Civic Arena would be opened on January 19 and added that 19 general contractors have plans to date. Regarding upcoming meetings Director Vraa stated that the regular meeting in February would be held on February 16 due to the February 20 President's Day holiday. Also scheduled for February is a joint Council/Commission meeting and a special meeting for the Commission to meet with a facilitator to work on goals and objectives. Staff will notify the Commission of meeting dates once they are defined. A meeting date will need to be set for the Land Acquisition sub-committee to review the Borchert Ingersoll property as well as the proposed Blackhawk Park shelter building. Director Vraa stated that the advertisement for Parks Superintendent has been published and applications will be accepted until January 20, 1995. A Task Force has been meeting regarding the O'Neill property and the planning for the 'downtown' area of Eagan. The Task Force is looking for a representative from the APRNRC now that Jonathan Widem will no longer be able to attend. Member Widem noted that over the next 5-6 weeks the group will have a very intensive meeting schedule. They typically meet at 5:00 pm in the Council Chambers. Michael Vincent volunteered to attend the meetings on behalf of the APRNRC. ROUND TABLE Lee Markell asked if consideration could be given to hiring a person specifically to inspect for erosion control compliance. Director Vraa responded that Dakota County Soil and Water was to have been approached to provide that service. Member Markell added that perhaps tree protection and erosion control could both be handled by the same person as a pilot program. Director Vraa stated staff would look into this issue further. With no further business to conduct, Jonathan Widem moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 pm. Secrets Date