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02/16/1995 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA February 16, 1995 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:00 pm on February 16, 1995 with the following Commission Members present; Lee Markell, Ken Tyler, Cindy Lynch, John Rudolph, Jonathan Widem, David Szott, Michael Vincent, Stephen Thompson, George Kubik and Sherie Wallace. Commission Member Tom Walkington 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. INTRODUCTION OF NEW MEMBERS Director Vraa introduced and welcomed. John Rudolph, Stephen Thompson, Thomas Walkington, and Sherie Wallace, having been appointed to three year terms. Cindy Lynch was appointed as the new one year alternate. COMMISSION ORGANIZATION After describing the responsibilities for each office and explaining the voting procedure which included initialing ballots, Director Vraa opened nominations for the Chairperson. Stephen Thompson nominated and Jonathan Widem seconded the nomination of Lee Markell. George Kubik nominated and Lee Markell seconded the nomination of Stephen Thompson. The nominations were closed, written ballots submitted and counted naming Lee Markell as Chair. Director Vraa opened nomination for Vice-Chair. Lee MarkelI nominated and Sherie Wallace seconded the nomination of Stephen Thompson. George Kubik nominated and Jonathan Widem seconded the nomination of John Rudolph. The nominations were closed, written ballots submitted and counted resulting in a tie. The tie was broken with a coin toss naming John Rudolph as Vice-Chair. Director Vraa opened nominations for Secretary. George Kubik nominated and Jonathan Widem seconded the nomination of Stephen Thompson. A unanimous ballot was cast for Stephen Thompson as Secretary. The Commission recommended that the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission meetings be held on the Tuesday preceding the second City Council meeting each month. The only conflict date was the May meeting which will be rescheduled for May 11, 1995. Director Vraa then turned the meeting over to Chairman Lee Markell for the appointment of members to the various sub-committees. It was the Commission recommendation that the sub-committees remain as Recreation, Natural Resources and Parks Development/Land Acquisition with the same members serving on them. Cindy Lynch expressed an interest in serving on the Recreation sub-committee and Tom Walkington had expressed an interest in serving on the Natural Resources sub-committee. Chairman Markell noted that all Commission members are welcome at all sub-committee meetings. Member Wallace added that as the Commission re-examines their role there may be some changes in the sub-committees. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of Meeting of February 16, 1995 Page 2 AGENDA Director Vraa added several items under Other Business and Reports which included (3) Wading Pool, (4) Commission Retreat, (5) Organizational Structure of five year water quality management plan, (6) Holz farm property, and (7) Construction on Yankee Doodle Road. Jonathan Widem moved, George Kubik seconded with all members voting in favor to acceptthe agenda as amended. MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF JANUARY 12, 1995 Michael Vincent 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 the photo of Blackhawk Park playground featured on the front cover of a playground equipment catalog, continuation of routine rink maintenance in an attempt to maintain skating surfaces, emptying out of space in the Maintenance Facility to make room for City Hall employees during renovation. trimming of boulevard trees, Arbor Day events scheduled for May 6th, expansion of the Youth Development program into the Quarry neighborhood, softball registration will begin in March, NYSCA coaches certification clinics are scheduled for March and the successful Family Fishing event at Carlson Lake of February 4 was enjoyed by approximately 60 people. CONSENT AGENDA George Kubik moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to the following proposals: 1. Oak Cliff 8th Addition. This development would be subject to a cash parks and cash trails dedication. There are no jurisdictional wetlands located on this site. Water quality requirements for this development and the future development of Outlot A have been met by the construction of Pond AP-10B. There are no significant trees located on this site. 2. Safari at Eagan 3rd Addition. This development would be subject to a cash parks dedication and be required to install a trail to complete the trail installed along Thomas Center Drive with the Safari at Eagan 2nd Addition (Lifetime Fitness) development. The 3rd Addition trail segment will complete the trail from Thomas Lake Road to Cliff Road via Thomas Center Drive. Pond BP-13.1 has been sized to handle the runoff from the 2nd Addition and 3rd Addition. There are no significant trees on this site. MALLARD PARK 4TH ADDITION - EHW PROPERTIES After a brief introduction by Director Vraa, Planner Ridley explained that EHW Properties is requesting approval of a Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment from D-III, Mixed Residential to D-1 Single Family and a Rezoning from R-4, Multiple to R-1, Single Family for approximately 38 acres. The approval of a Preliminary Subdivision consisting of 63 single family lots and two outlots on approximately 52 acres is being requested along with two variances to the maximum cul-de-sac length. The site is located south of Diffley Road, east of 1-35E on either side of Johnny Cake Ridge Road. The proposed 63 lot subdivision is located on the west side of Johnny Cake Ridge Road and has a net density of 1.9 units per acre. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of Meeting of February 16,1995 Page 3 Water Resources Coordinator Brasch explained that a 1.8 acre Type 4 wetland located in the southeast portion of the development is the most significant water related feature of the site. Pond BP-23, classified as a sediment trap in the water quality management plan, has not yet been incorporated into the City's storm sewer system. Because of the relatively pristine nature of this wetland, staff recommends that the developer work with water resources staff to set the NWL of the pond as close to the natural water level as possible, that the HWL in the pond be no more than 3 feet above the NWL, and that only adequately treated water be discharged to the pond. Staff is also recommending some changes to the proposed ponding system. Staff is recommending that drainage from the western portion of the site be routed to Pond AP-28, a sediment trap located off-site to the west on MnDOT property. Current site plans show some drainage from the western portion of the site treated prior to discharge to Pond BP-23, while about 3.5 acres of the site drain untreated to BP-23. It is unclear whether the ponds comply with the city standards for NURP pond design. Depending on the changes that are made to reflect the above recommendations, a cash dedication in addition to on-site ponding may be appropriate for this development. Forestry Supervisor Hove stated that the site was a heavily wooded area with 171,000 square feet of significant woodlands with 33% being removed as part of this initial development Hove continued that during meetings with the developer staff has requested the developer to identify significant woodlands located south and east of Pond BP-23. Director Vraa added that the parks dedication requirements have been met for this project though Downing Park. Richard Marhula, General Manger of EHW Properties addressed the Commission stating the plan they are presenting represents a great deal of planning and work. They feel they have done the best job possible in preserving trees and wetlands within this development. Mike Gair, stated the developer has looked at several other options for this property and feel the current plan offers the best options. The intention of this development was to stay clear of woodlands and steep slopes as much as possible. It is intended that the center of the water would be the back end of the lots abutting it. The developer intends to provide on-site ponding and they will continue to work with staff to resolve any other issues of concern. They hope to meet the HWL and NWL levels as identified by staff. Although they understand the Commission's request for a buffer area around the wetland, the developer feels they can provide some buffering in the area where the 60 x 60 building pad infringes slightly on a delineated corner of wetland without compromising the suitability of that lot(s). Regarding tree removal issues, Mr. Gair opined the developer had fulfilled their obligations for providing the necessary information to the Forestry Division and didn't understand what was still missing. The lots to the south, will be set aside as custom built lots so that tree removal will occur during individual lot development. Mr. Gair stated the developer has tried to be responsive to woodlands, significant trees,and wetlands so that future homeowners will be happy with the site. Member Markell asked when theAPC would review this issue. Planner Ridley responded this would appear on their agenda on February 28. Markell asked why the request for downzoning. Mr. Marhula responded the City wanted the property downzoned. Planner Ridley concurred stating in 1989-90 the property was zoned R-3 and R-4. A study was done because of the inordinate amount to property in the city with that zoning and the Council wanted to look at a more suitable zoning for this particular site. After further discussion, Lee Markell moved, Jonathan Widem seconded, with all members voting in favor to defer this item to the Natural Resources sub-committee to see if they can work with the APC to determine a better use for this site, specifically as it impacts the wetland. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of Meeting of February 16, 1995 Page 4 For further clarification, Mr. Marhula asked what use the Commission was referring to. Mr. Markell responded they would like to consider the possible acquisition of a portion of the lots south of the wetlands so the wetland can be preserved. Member Vincent added he would like to see the Natural Resources sub- committee work on preserving the wetland through a partnership between the City and the developer. Mr. Gair asked for a clarification of this "partnership". Member MarkelI responded there is the potential for acquisition of Lots 55-60. If the City wants to preserve the wetland, Markell opined, they need to acquire the lots. As a point of clarification, it was noted that this development would be reviewed by the APC on February 28 and would be scheduled for the City Council in March. The Natural Resources sub-committee will meet on Wednesday, February 22, 6:30 p.m. at the Maintenance Facility to provide direction to the Commission at their March 20 meeting. EROSION CONTROL Coordinator Brasch stated he was responding to a previous request by the Commission regarding erosion control as it relates to new development and construction and how it could be funded. Brasch noted that an idea had been suggested approximately two years ago to add a $25 fee onto building fees to finance this program. Member Kubik asked if this funding issue should be revisited and suggested that the Natural Resources sub-committee review this issue more thoroughly to provide some alternatives. Member Widem suggested that a tree preservation inspector be considered in this discussion as well since that too has a significant impact on the natural resources. Coordinator Brasch remembered that there was some discussion about combining the erosion control person and tree preservation inspector. Member Widem suggested that the position(s) be handled contractually rather than hire full time staff. Member Kubik suggested working through the erosion control need first, determine funding options and then proceed with other possibilities. Director Vraa cautioned that the Commission would need to focus on funding a new revenue source to match the expenditures. Member Markell asked'. if existing staff could provide the tree inspection service. Forestry Supervisor Hove and Director Vraa both responded that current staff would not be able to absorb additional workload. Member Kubik commented that enforcement of the Tree Preservation Plan was more labor intensive. Coordinator Brasch stated he would survey other growing communities to see how they deal with this issue and will report back to the Commission. It was the consensus of the Commission to defer this item to the Natural Resources sub-committee to brainstorm funding options. PRAIRIE MANAGEMENT PLAN - THOMAS LAKE PARK DirectorVraa introduced this item explaining the inroads the City has made with prairie management. Forestry Supervisor Hove continued that Thomas Lake provides one of the better upland prairies in the area. A prairie plant inventory was conducted in September, 1986 by Mr. Welby Smith, MnDNR followed by additional site investigation during fall 1994 by forestry staff and Ron Bowen, President of Prairie Restorations, Inc. Supervisor Hove then identified the five prairie categories as remnant prairie, degraded prairie, highly degraded prairie, exotics/weeds and areas restored before 1994. Gregg then outlined the proposed four year management plan at a cost of $16,252. The average annual cost for this program will be $3,960. In addition to the long-term management plan, Supervisor Hove added that several associated tasks should be considered. Those included a consistent method of documenting the change within the prairie , photo/video points should be established and recording made at the same time(s) of year; continued effort should be made to control woody plant encroachment; a continuing number of field checks should be made with the intent of further developing the site plant list and an interpretive signage system should be researched and implemented to educate park users as to activities, objectives and goals of prairie management Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of Meeting of February 16, 1995 Page 5 Member Markell congratulated Gregg on the thoughtful approach to the prairie management plan. Member Wallace opined that this would be a great opportunity for a partnership with business; an opportunity for a business to adopt a community project. Member Rudolph stated his willingness to contact state organizations to see what, if any, funding may be available for this project. Member Wallace added that she was pleased to see an interpretive signage system incorporated in this plan. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT APPLICATION Superintendent Peterson provided a brief background on the status of the CDBG application which the City Council authorized pursuit of $4,000', for youth programming in the Wescott neighborhood. The Wescott Junior Program for children ages 6-12 was nominated by staff as a candidate for CDBG funding. Representatives from the HRA have indicated that an expanded Junior Program is a viable candidate for the funding which will be announced in June. AVAILABLE LAND ADJACENT TO MUELLER FARM PARK Director Vraa brought the Commission's attention to a letter received by Bob and Terri McLean regarding land that is available adjacent to Mueller Farm Park. George Kubik moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to defer this item to the Land Acquisition sub-committee. WADING POOL As a follow-up from the joint Council/Commission meeting of February 28, Member Thompson suggested the Commission send a written statement to the City Council expressing the feeling that a stand alone wading pool was not an appropriate facility to provide adjacent to the Civic Arena at this time. Member Kubik added that although swimming has been identified as one of the highest requested uses, it should be part of a larger swimming facility. Member Widem expressed his concern that a wading pool would not get used and felt the dollars could be expended more effectively elsewhere. He also stated his concern for the location of the wading pool should a second sheet of ice be planned. Member Tyler expressed his support for the wading pool feeling that it is better to have something now rather than wait an undetermined number of years for a water element the community can enjoy. Director Vraa clarified that the wading pool did have some play features included in its design. Member Vincent opined that the capitol from the wading pool should be held until a larger pool facility can be incorporated. Member Szott commented that the statement to the City Council needs to address the wading pool as it is proposed. Stephen Thompson stated the Commission has discussed this issue previously and did not think a stand alone wading pool was a good option. Member Kubik concurred with some of the comments expressed but cautioned about how a letter to the City Council is worded. After further discussion, Sherie Wallace moved, Stephen Thompson seconded a motion to write a letter and make a presentation to the City Council, referencing information provided by Mr. Faust, that a stand alone wading pool be placed on hold until a better location is identified for it. Those voting Aye included Lee Markell, Cindy Lynch, John Rudolph, Jonathan Widem, David Szott, Michael Vincent, Stephen Thompson, and Sherie Wallace. Those voting Nay included Ken Tyler and George Kubik. The motion passed. Stephen Thompson was directed to draft the correspondence to the City Council on behalf of the Commission. COMMISSION RETREAT Director Vraa reminded the Commission of their retreat scheduled for February 28 at 5:15 p.m. Information the Commission would like to incorporate during that work session should be provided as soon as possible, Vraa added. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of Meeting of February 16, 1995 Page 6 FIVE YEAR WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT PLAN Member Kubik stated that amendments/modifications to the plan may be appropriate at this time, however he did not see it was necessary to do a complete re-write of the plan since it is basically very good. Director Vraa suggested that the Commission write a problem statement that identified the problem(s) and then outline possible options. Member Wallace stated this process would help the Commission and developers to be precise and fair in their review of development proposals HOLZ FARM PROPERTY Member Vincent commented that he felt there should be a task force established to define the direction for the Holz Farm property and to provide the preliminary ground work for future programming/use. Member Thompson added that a group consisting of Commission members and staff should meet to develop the vision for the future of the property through brainstorming followed by involvement by other community groups and the public. Member Rudolph commented that it is important for the Commission to be proactive in generating ideas for this property and those ideas should be put in writing. Member Kubik suggested an ad-hoc committee could help to identify who should be a part of this investigational task force. Although it was determined that this group would not be able to be mobilized within 30 days, Member Thompson asked the Commission to be cognizant of keeping the momentum going for this project. Director Vraa explained that some information has already been obtained but it may be beneficial for Commission members to visit the site and then look at what direction the group may want to head. It was the Commission's consensus that this issue would be reviewed by the Land Acquisition sub-committee and a report would be made to the Commission at their March 20th meeting. YANKEE DOODLE ROAD CONSTRUCTION Director Vraa introduced this item explaining that the expansion of Yankee Doodle Road will require substantial grading near the Gopher Smelting/Borchert-Ingersoll property. The area north of Yankee Doodle Road, just south of Borchert/Ingersoll property is heavily wooded. The City has asked the County to re-visit their original grading plans since their grading will result in the loss of much of the wooded area. Forestry Supervisor Hove added that the majority of the trees in this area are red oak and approximately 150 of them have a diameter of 12" or greater. The largest impact, Hove continued, will be the deletion of the overstory coverage that buffers the Borchert/Ingersoll site from Yankee Doodle Road. In response to Ken Tyler's question about what options are available, Hove responded that a combination of retaining walls and reforestation should be pursued. Member Markell asked if the City could meet with the County to see if some compromise could be achieved to lessen the impact. Director Vraa responded that to date the County has indicated they would proceed with their current plans. Member Kubik recalled the City appearing before the County Board relative to on-road bike trails and suggested that that option be considered again in this instance. It was the consensus of the Commission that this issue should be discussed by the Natural Resources Commission at their next meeting. It was also suggested that Public Works Director Colbert be asked to attend and also invite a representative of the County to participate. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of Meeting of February 16, 1995 Page 7 ROUND TABLE Member Vincent suggested that community information be moved up earlieron the agenda, i.e. parks development, grant programs, etc. to allow the public to hear information as early in the meeting as possible. Vincent also suggested that the Commission stick to a time frame. Member Widem added that he did not want to see developers do a "sales pitch" at the meetings and asked that staff make their presentation on development issues with the developer being available for questions only. Member Markell stated that in fairness to the developer perhaps a time I imit should be identified for their preliminary comments. Member Thompson opined that 10 minutes would be an appropriate time frame. Member Kubik concurred that the Commission has the obligation to hear the developer's point of view but the Chair should be allowed to exercise flexibility in dealing with the time frame. Issues identified for discussion at the Commission retreat included having an organization that pays attention to gray areas, becoming an effective and efficient organization, dynamics of the Commission, looking at development review (more developments appearing on the Consent Agenda), monitoring work load expectations of staff, Commission volunteerism, education and media improvement, and relationships with other groups (APC and City Council). Member Wallace congratulated Forestry Supervisor Hove and Parks Planner Lilly on the terrific presentation they made to the Chamber of Commerce recently. With no further business to conduct, John Rudolph moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 10:20 p.m. 514- 11, 1 Secretary Date