04/17/1995 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
April 17, 1995
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called
to order at 7:00 pm on April 17, 1995 with the following Commission Members present; Tom Walkington,
Michael Vincent, David Szott, Stephen Thompson, Lee Markell, John Rudolph, Sherie Wallace, Ken Tyler,
Cindy Lynch and George Kubik. Commission Member Jonathan Widem was not present. Staff present
included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; C.).
Lilly, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner; Rich Brasch, Water Resources Coordinator; Gregg Hove, Forestry
Supervisor; Jon Oyanagi, Recreation Supervisor; Mike Ridley, Project Planner; Shannon Tyree, Project
Planner and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary.
AGENDA
Michael Vincent moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the
agenda as presented.
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS
Items highlighted by Superintendent Peterson included the growth of EAA softball in excess of the
2005 projections;continued negotiated use of the Unisys ballfields for EAA programs; participation in the
WCCO TV '4 Your Parks' program on April 22; the Yankee Doodle Arts Festival scheduled for June 24 and
25; the success of a new program offering birthday parties for preschoolers and youth and the success of
Breakfast with the Easter Bunny and the Easter Egg Hunt.
Forestry Supervisor Hove added that the Arbor Day program is scheduled for 8:30 am on Saturday,
May 6 at Bur Oaks Park. Supervisor Hove continued that as part of the Arbor month celebration several
visits have been made to local schools culminating in the annual poster contest. Commission members will
be invited to select a winner from each of the elementary schools participating and then select the top three
posters. Supervisor Hove also noted that the annual tree sale will be held on April 24 where 800 trees
will be sold to Eagan residents who were selected through the annual tree lottery.
PUBLIC HEARING
NORTH PARK GRANT (BORCHERT/INGERSOLL PROPERTY)
Chairman Markel) opened the public hearing for the North Park Grant application relative to the
Borchert/Ingersoll property. Superintendent of Recreation Peterson provided background into this land
acquisition noting that the City is acquiring this parcel via tax forfeiture. It was noted that the acquisition is
currently moving through the state legislature with final adoption expected to occur this session. North
Park has been identified in the department's five year Capital Improvements Program to provide a
community park in the northern section of the City.
The grant application to the DNR, Peterson continued, was approved for submission by the
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission and the City Council. The grant application
for Phase I development of North Park is in the amount of $200,000 which will require a 50% city match
in cash or in-kind services. It was pointed out that there will be no costs assessed to adjoining neighbors to
the property in respect to the development of this parcel of land. According to the grant guidelines, Phase I
development of North Park would need to be completed by October 31, 1997.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 17, 1995 Meeting
Page 2
Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Lilly provided a brief overview of the work leading up to the
concept plan for this park. Planner Lilly noted that the tax forfeit property is approximately 72 acres and
the City is currently negotiating with adjacent land owners to accommodate a land exchange to allow for
the acquisition of additional property to the south of the Borchert/Ingersoll parcel. The proposed
development of this parcel will include ballfields, sand volleyball courts, picnic pavilion area, trails and
parking. Twenty-two acres of the site are expected to be developed, the pond encompasses 14 acres with
the balance of acreage being woodland. Currently the City is working with the Dakota County Sentence to
Service crews to clean up the site of construction debris.
Planner Lilly explained that the entrance to the park would be on Borchert Lane with 110 parking
spaces provided. If the City is successful in acquiring some additional land to the south, additional parking
may be accommodated in that location. The area surrounding the fields will be planted in native grasses
and wildflowers with the City working in cooperation with Gopher Smelting to provide screening between
the park and Gopher Smelting.
Cost estimates proposed for the development of this park included $250,000 for grading, $100,000
for utilities, $100,000 for trails, $75,000 for parking lots and roadways and $35,000 for turf establishment
for a total estimated cost of $560,000. This estimate, Lilly continued, does not include restrooms, shelter
building, sand courts or lighting. Chairman Markell asked what the cost of the tax forfeited property was to
the City. Planner Lilly responded that the estimated cost to the city is expected to be approximately
$45,000. Member Wallace asked about the possibility of having businesses or outside groups participate in
some joint ventures for playground acquisition/installation; concessions, etc. Member Kubik commented
that the City has entered into several joint ventures in the past and would hope that this cooperation would
continue.
Member Rudolph asked if the City would consider creating a 'shopping list' for individuals or
groups to select from if they were interested in making a donation to the park system, i.e. park bench,
picnic table, scoreboard, etc. Superintendent Peterson suggested adding this creative idea to the
Commission's 1995 work program agenda.
Chairman Markell asked if there was anyone from the public who wished to comment on the grant
application during this public hearing. Tom Mullen, 830 Ivy Lane, expressed his interest and concern for
this project. He stated there were some residents who are interested in helping financially with some of the
components within this park.
With no further input from the public, George Kubik moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all
members voting in favor to close the public hearing.
George Kubik moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to approve the
North Park (Borchert/Ingersoll property) grant completion and submission to the Department of Natural
Resource's Outdoor Recreation Grant Program.
CONSENT AGENDA
George Kubik moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to make the
following recommendations to the City Council relative to the following proposals:
1. Resolution for Eagan Arbor Day and Eagan Arbor Month. To approve a Resolution for Eagan
Arbor Day and Eagan Arbor Month.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 17, 1995 Meeting
Page 3
2. Eagandale Center Ind. Park No. 11 Northwestern Mutural. This development would be
subject to a cash parks dedication and a cash trails dedication. The Tree Preservation Plan
should be approved as presented. A revised Tree Preservation/Tree Mitigation Plan shall be
submitted indicating the species, size and location of all replacement trees. Tree Protective
Measures would be required (i.e. 4 foot polyethylene laminate safety netting) to be installed at
the Drip Line or at the perimeter of the Critical Root Zone, whichever is greater, of the
significant trees/woodlands to be preserved. The developer would be required to contact the
City Forestry Division at least five days prior to the issuance of a grading permit to ensure
compliance with the approved Tree Preservation Plan. A Tree Preservation Plan/Inventory
needs to be submitted for the significant woodlands in the SE corner of the property.
Mitigation needs to be calculated. The developer would be subject to an on-site ponding
requirement to meet water quality mitigation standards.
3. Eagandale Center Ind. Park No. 12 - Northwestern Mutual. This development would be
subject to a cash parks dedication and a cash trails dedication. With no development taking
place on this development at this time, an Individual Lot Tree Preservation Plan will be
required for this development at the time of Building/Grading Permit Application. The
developer has met water quality treatment requirements through the construction of ponding
(City Pond HP-9) on an adjacent lot.
4. Indy Lube Addition - Met-Coh Companies. This development would be subject to a cash
parks dedication and a cash trails dedication. Staff is recommending approval of the proposed
Tree Preservation Plan. The development would be subject to a water quality cash dedication.
SENECA HILLS - LGA INVESTMENT GROUP
Planner Ridley noted that LGA Investment Group is requesting approval of a Preliminary
Subdivision, Multi-family Site Plan, and a number of side yard setback variances for a 38 unit townhome
development on approximately 10 acres located on the east side of Highway 13, just north of Silver Bell
Center. This 10 acre proposal, Ridley continued, is adjacent to the Vermilion project being proposed by
Centex which is scheduled for review later in the agenda. Ridley concluded that this proposed
development is consistent with the existing R-3 zoning and Guide Plan designation as D-111 and the general
development layout, proposed access and density appear to be in order.
Forestry Supervisor Hove stated that this site is approximately fifty percent wooded with a variety of
deciduous and conifer species concentrated to the east half of the site. The Tree Preservation Plan indicates
the presence of 157,251 square feet of significant woodlands and 73 significant trees. Supervisor Hove
stated the developer has proposed grading the entire area to be developed at one time even though the
Preservation Plan was originally set up to deal with development on a two phase process. During the first
phase, 25% of the existing significant vegetation is allowed to be removed without mitigation. The second
phase would allow 30% of the remaining significant tree/woodland resource to be removed without
mitigation. Staff is requesting that tree preservation issues of this development be considered in an entire
site phase at the time of initial development. Allowable tree removal when considered in one phase
calculates to 47.5% of the existing vegetation. The development will result in the removal of 69.3% of the
significant woodlands and in the removal of 27 significant trees. The mitigation for significant woodland
removal is 136 Category B trees or 273 Category C trees. It is staff's recommendation that this
development be denied as proposed pending further consideration of the tree preservation issues.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 17, 1995 Meeting
Page 4
Coordinator Brasch noted that staff is requesting a water quality cash dedication, credited for any
wet pond volume created on the site that meets City standards for detention basin design. Also there would
be a no-loss determination for wetland impacts under the Wetland Conservation Act.
Jim Waters representing LGH stated that he originally met with staff regarding tree preservation and
noted that this is a difficult site to develop because it is so heavily vegetated. He added that the developer
will continue working with staff to mitigate the impact, if possible. He felt that the water quality and
wetland issues had bee resolved to everyone's satisfaction. Waters continued that it is not the developer's
intention to save lower quality trees and reiterated his interest in working with staff to resolve any
outstanding tree preservation issues. It was important, Waters concluded, to keep this process on track and
asked that the Commission look favorably on this request.
After a brief discussion by the Commission on the potential problems that remain unresolved,
Stephen Thompson moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting in favor to defer this
proposal pending further review between staff and the developer to bring this development within the Tree
Preservation Guidelines.
EAGAN WOODS OFFICE PARK 2ND - PCB REALTY CO.
Planner Tyree provided the background for this proposed development explaining the request for a
Preliminary Planned Development consisting of a 52,248 sq. ft. corporate office building, a 64,800 sq. ft.
office building, a 9,250 sq. ft. restaurant and a 39,000 sq. ft., 90 room hotel, a Final Planned Development
for Phase I, the corporate office building and a Preliminary subdivision for four lots and one outlot on
30.95 acres. The scope of this development, Tyree continued was to create a phased corporate campus for
Old Country Buffet Realty Company over the next 7-10 years.
Supervisor Hove explained that there are 552 significant trees on Lot 1, no significant trees on Lot
2, 11 significant trees on Lot 3, 669 significant trees on Lot 4 and 40 significant trees in Outlot A. The
developer has proposed grading the entire area at one time, however the Tree Preservation Policy was
originally set up to deal with development on a two phase process. Under the existing policy, 25% of
significant vegetation can be removed during phase I development without mitigation while 30% tree
removal can occur during phase II without mitigation. Supervisor Hove also noted that storm water
drainage construction is proposed to be developed in the northwest area of Lot 1. The proposed routing of
this pipe will result in the removal of trees through the Lost Spur property.
Water Resources Coordinator Branch explained that the proposed development will generate
stormwater runoff that will discharge to a large wetland complex in the Minnesota River Valley west of
Hwy 13 across from Lost Spur Country Club. The development is located at the head of a steep ravine that
lies just west of Pilot Knob Road. The stormwater from existing developments and adjacent undeveloped
area currently discharge to a small, steep-sided dry detention basin at the head of the ravine in the
northwest corner of the proposed development. Overflow from this dry detention area is then discharged to
an open channel which is severely eroded and flows through the Lost Spur Country Club property,
intersecting an internal road and maintenance area. The current site plan calls for enlargement of the small
dry detention basin and conversion to a small wet detention basin. The grading proposed to modify this
basin would result in the removal of 22 significant trees. The Public Works Department is requiring that
the overflow from the re-configured ponding area be carried in a pipe for about 1250 feet to Highway 13
where it will be discharged to an existing large culvert that routs runoff from the Highway 13 ROW under
the highway. The developer has indicated they may approach the City to reduce fees, including any water
quality cash dedication, to defray the cost of pipe installation to address the erosion problem.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 17, 1995 Meeting
Page 5
A representative from BRW, explained that the original stormwater detention planned for this site
was for a more intensive use. He stated that the developer is working with MWCC and Lost Spur to
address any drainage or erosion issues that by arise from this development.
Member Wallace asked when Phase IV would be developed. The developer responded that Phase
I is planned as a corporate site and is expected to develop under 5 years; Phase II and III are planned for
construction of a hotel and restaurant is expected to develop over 5 years and Phase IV is planned for
undetermined development beyond that.
After a brief discussion,, Stephen Thompson moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members
voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council regarding Eagan Woods Office
Park 2nd:
1. This development would be subject to a cash parks dedication.
2. This development would be subject to a cash trails dedication.
3. The proposed Tree Preservation Plan would be approved as submitted.
4. An additional Tree Preservation Plan/Inventory shall be prepared for tree removal occurring outside
the proposed development site, i.e. Lost Spur property.
5. Tree Protective Measures would be required (i.e. 4 foot polyethylene laminate safety netting) to be
installed at the Drip Line or at the perimeter of the Critical Root Zone,whichever is greater, of the
significant treestwoodlands to be preserved.
6. The developer would be required to contact the City Forestry Division at least five days prior to the
issuance of a grading permit to ensure compliance with the approved Tree Preservation Plan.
7. An Individual Lot Tree Preservation Plan will be required for Lot 4 of this development at the time
of Building/Grading Permit application.
8. The development shall be subject to a water quality cash dedication, adjusted for any wet pond
volume that would be provided in the proposed detention basin.
VERMILION - CENTEX REAL ESTATE CORP.
Project Planner Ridley explained that this development is proposing 221 townhomes on just under 40
acres located along the east side of Highway 13 south of Robin Lane. The request includes a Preliminary
Subdivision, multi-family site plan approval and front setback variances for 16 of the units. The setbacks,
Ridley continued, are 5 foot front setbacks to stay away from some of the steep slopes in the area. Planner
Ridley concluded that the general layout, proposed access and density appear to be in order.
Director Vraa explained that this development, located in Park Service Area 16, should provide an
access to Sky Hill Park via an 8 foot trail along the south side of the public street to provide access to
Highway 13 and Robin Lane/Blackhawk and the trail on Blackhawk to Sky Hill Park. Forestry Supervisor
Hove and Water Resources Coordinator Brasch reviewed the Tree Preservation Guidelines and Water
Quality/Wetlands issues associated with this development.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 17, 1995 Meeting
Page 6
Coordinator Brasch explained that the developer is proposing to construct a detention basin in the
northwest portion of the site, primarily to provide hydrology for an adjacent wetland replacement area.
This basin will be too small to meet water quality treatment requirements, therefore a supplemental cash
dedication will be necessary for water quality mitigation standards to be fully met for this development.
Relative to wetlands, staff is recommending approval of the wetland replacement plan. Another issue
Brasch noted was that Wetland Basin C is a temporarily flooded bottomland hardwood forest wetland and
that much of the sormwater from the development will eventually be discharged to this wetland. The
developer will be required to make sure the outlet of the wetland is such that a permanent pool of standing
water will not be created after development.
Dan Blake representing Centex Real Estate Corp., stated he has talked with Supervisor Hove regarding
tree replacement mitigation and agrees with what has been requested. He did note, however that he felt
the storm drainage outlet would be sufficient as it currently exists. Mr. Blake concluded that he would also
anticipate providing some type of passive' recreation amenities (i.e. benches) on site such.
Member Kubik commented that it appears all of staff's concerns have been addressed by the developer
but added that he would like to see open space provided in a residential area with this amount of density.
After further discussion, George Kubik moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting in favor
to make the following recommendations to the City Council regarding the Vermilion development:
1. This development would be subject to a cash parks dedication and the developer is to provide a
designated open space for informal activities.
2. This development would be subject to a cash trails dedication. The developer would be
responsible for constructing an 8 foot trail on the south side of the public street with the private
road project. Credit would be given toward the cash trails dedication for this trail.
3. The Tree Preservation Plan should be approved as presented.
4. A revised Tree Preservation/Trek Mitigation Plan must be submitted indicating the species, size
and location of all replacement trees.
5. Any tree loss mitigation is to be in addition to any landscaping requirements.
6. Tree Protective measures would be required (i.e. 4 foot polyethylene laminate safety netting) to
be installed at the Drip Line or at the perimeter of the Critical Root Zone, whichever is greater,
of the significant trees/woodlands to be preserved.
7. The developer is required to contact the City Forestry Division at least five days prior to the
issuance of a grading permit to ensure compliance with the approved Tree Preservation Plan.
8. The wetland replacement plan dated March 17, 1995 should be approved.
9. The development would be subject to a cash water quality dedication, adjusted for the wet pond
volume that will be provided in the proposed detention basin.
10. The storm drainage system in the vicinity of Wetland Basin C shall be designed to prevent
formation of a permanent pool of standing water within the basin.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 17, 1995 Meeting
Page 7
EAGANDALE CORPORATE CENTER - NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL
Project Planner Tyree explained that Northwestern Mutual Life Company is requesting approval of a
Preliminary Subdivision consisting of 20 lots on approximately 198 acres located at the northeast
intersection of Lexington Avenue and Yankee Doodle Road. The entire site, Tyree concluded, is zoned and
guided for industrial development and the revised plans reflect an acceptable general development and
access/circulation design.
Supervisor Hove reviewed the tree preservation issues explaining that a Tree Preservation Plan has been
submitted for this development indicating the presence of 1,350 significant trees, including 43 specimen
trees located on site. Phase one of this development proposes the loss of 335 (24.8%) of the total with the
allowable removal being 25%. Although there is no mitigation with this first phase of tree removal, if
specimen trees are considered separately, 15 specimen trees (34.9%)are proposed to be removed which
exceed the allowable limits. Mitigation for the loss of specimen trees, above allowable limits, calculates to
15 Category A trees or 30 Category b trees or 60 Category C trees.
Director Vraa explained that a letter dated April 14 was received from the developer requesting credit
because of the economic impact of this development for tree loss mitigation. The developer has asked that
if specimen trees are to be replaced that some consideration be given to parks dedication credit, however,
staff feels that there has not been sufficient time to review this request in order to respond to the developer.
Regarding water quality, Coordinator Brasch explained that because of the large size of the
development, the high development intensity proposed for the site, the high quality of the large wetlands
within the development and the fact that the site discharges to drainages that contain high priority
recreational resources, on-site ponding is being recommended as the primary measure to meet water quality
requirements. Staff is also requesting that the developer construct detention basins to treat stormwater
runoff prior to discharge to the two large wetland complexes that contain state protected waters. It was
noted that the Natural Resources Subcommitee met to review this plat on April 3 after which a letter was
sent to the developer that summarized the recommendations. Those recommendations were reviewed with
the full Commission.
Miles Lindberg, representing BRW identified three issues from the developer's perspective. The first
issue was the relocation of the mitigation area. They agree with the wetland replacement plan in general
but would like to maintain the flexibility of working with staff on tree mitigation. He added that the impact
of tree loss in the southwest corner of the site is a result of Engineering requesting road re-alignment but
added that the developer will continue working with staff to resolve any issues. Regarding parks dedication
credit, Mr. Lindberg explained their rationale for requesting the credit and asked that the Commission look
favorably upon their request.
Member Kubik suggested remanding negotiations to staff to negotiate further beyond the scope of
information the Commission has received to date. Director Vraa suggested that the Natural Resources sub-
committee review this item further to determine the feasibility of a credit. Member Tyler expressed his
concern in setting a precedent for parks dedication credit based on woodlandstwetlands impact. In
response to a question from Member Vincent, Director Vraa stated that a green belt connection may
provide an opportunity for discussion relative to parks dedication credit and or land dedication for this
development.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 17, 1995 Meeting
Page 8
After further discussion, George Kubik moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting in
favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to Eagandale Corporate Center:
1. This development would be subject to a cash parks dedication. However, the developer should
receive a credit against this cash dedication for preserving land within the site that contains
important natural amenities or connections between natural amenities and are not part of the
wetland/ponding complex and associated buffers (Note: the Commission will need to decide how
much land and what area should be set aside for credit.)
2. This development would be subject to a cash trails dedication.
3. Staff recommends approval of the proposed Tree Preservation Plan if the following conditions can
be met:
a. To preserve the entire wooded area just east of EP-3 by moving proposed ponding. Trees
included here are 454, 456, 457, 463, 464, 465, 466, 467, 468, 472 and 473.
b. To preserve large oak trees along Neil Armstrong Boulevard (south entrance) via retaining wall.
Trees included here are 990, 991, 1052, 1056, 1058, 1059 and 1060.
c. To preserve large oak trees located south of the Neil Armstrong Circle cul-de-sac by shifting
grading limits approximately twenty feet to the north. Trees included here are 70, 72, 73, 74,
75, 76, 122 and 123.
d. To require that a revised Tree Preservation/Tree Mitigation Plan be submitted indicating the
species, size and location of all replacement trees.
e. To acknowledge that any tree loss mitigation be in addition to any landscaping requirements.
f. To require that Tree Protective Measures (i.e. 4 foot polyethylene laminate safety netting be
installed at the Drip Line or at the perimeter of the Critical Root Zone,whichever is greater, of
the significant treestwoodlands to be preserved.
g. To require that the developer, contact the City Forestry Division at least five days prior to the
issuance of a grading permit to ensure compliance with the approved Tree Preservation Plan.
4. On-site ponding shall be required to prevent degradation in the quality of Ponds DP-11, Pond EP-3,
LeMay Lake and Pond EP-2. Any shortfall in meeting non-degradation standards for Pond EP-2 should
be made up with a supplemental cash water quality dedication.
5. The wetlands replacement plan should be approved, subject to the following conditions:
a. Trees #756, 758, 761 and 770 in the tree inventory for the site shall be preserved by re-
orienting Ponds C2A and C2B to the north and east.
b. The proposed .8 acre wetland mitigation area due east of MnDNR protected water #135 shall
be re-located to avoid impacts to oak trees.
c. The City shall reserve the right to modify the wetland replacement plan based on changes in
the Wetlands Conservation Act made by the 1995 Legislature (which will be known in May,
1995). Modifications can be made only to the extent necessary to accommodate elimination of
tree-related impacts associated with up to .8 acres of replacement wetland.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 17, 1995 Meeting
Page 9
d. No grading or vegetation removal should be allowed within 30 feet of the delineated wetland
edge of Wetland Basins A and E, except for up to a total of 450 lineal feet along the south end
of Wetland Basin A (for road ;construction) and north end of Wetland Basin E (for detention
basin construction). The 30 foot wide area will be managed to support natural vegetation and
shall be left unmowed. This area shall be clearly marked on both the grading plan and in the
field prior to grading activity.
e. At least .5 acres of replacement wetland shall be established as forested wetland through the
planting of tree and shrub species compatible with seasonally saturated soils. The number and
types of trees planted shall be based on those shown on the tree inventory which will be
removed by filling of Wetland basin G.
f. The pond level bounce for Pond DP-11 (Wetland basin C) should be 3 feet of less for a 10 year
storm event and 2 feet or less for a 2-year storm event.
g. The developer shall submit for review by the Water Resource Coordinator detailed plans
regarding the grading for wetland replacement and ponding areas, including areas of hydric
soil replacement and a vegetation planting plan. The plan must be approved by staff before
any grading plan application for the site is submitted to the City.
HOLZ FARM STEERING COMMITTEE REPORT
Recreation Supervisor Oyanagi explained that the Steering Committee has met and recommended
that a task force be formed to eventually report back the APRNR Commission and City Council on the
utilization of the Holz Farm property that will enhance the recreational, educational and leisure
opportunities of the Eagan area. This Task Force will consist of seven to 11 members representing a diverse
background. Supervisory Oyanagi then discussed research areas identified for the Task Force to allow for
the input needed to proceed with future development/programming for the farm. In response to the time
line established for this project, Oyanagi responded that an ad will appear in the local papers to alert the
community of this process, inviting them to submit a letter of interest by May 15. From that point the
group will be appointed by the City Council to continue to work as defined by the steering committee.
Stephen Thompson moved, Tom Walkington seconded with all members voting in favor to follow
the steering committee's report on the Holz Farm task force and the objectives for that group and forward
the report to the City Council for their evaluation and recommendation.
1995 COMMISSION WORK PLAN
Director Vraa introduced the list of items discussed by the Commission at an earlier workshop and
asked that the list be discussed, prioritized and time lines be placed on the prioritizations. Member Kubik
suggested scheduling a workshop where the Commission can discuss these issues in detail but asked that
this item be deferred to the Round Table discussion.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 17, 1995 Meeting
Page 10
NATURAL RESOURCES SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING DATE
(DOWNTOWN AREA PLAT APPLICATION)
PARKS DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
The Natural Resources Sub-Committee set a date of April 27, 5:30 pm at the Central Maintenance
Facility to discuss to plat application by Opus Corporation for the proposed 'downtown" site prior to it's
being placed on the May Commission agenda.
WINTER RECREATION PROGRAM REPORT
Recreation Supervisor Oyanagi briefly discussed some of the highlights of the winter recreation
programs that were presented in detail in the packet. Oyanagi explained that during the winter the winter
sites are open seven days a week for twelve weeks, twelve leagues occur on six days of the week, softball
is organized during the winter and spring program planning is all occurring concurrently. It was noted that
Bridle Ridge and Goat Hill parks are heavily used for skating and are, at times, overcrowded. It is hoped
that the Borchert/Ingersoll property may help to alleviate some of the winter recreation needs once the park
is developed.
Supervisor Oyanagi also reminded the Commission that Earth Day activities will take place on April
23 at Thomas Lake Park. The day will begin with a walk, followed by lunch and several displays at the
park.
REPORT FROM LAND ACQUISITION CHAIR
Land Acquisition Chair Szott explained that in February the ISTEA grant was still progressing as
proposed. Discussion on the future pavilion at Blackhawk Park was also discussed in an attempt to identify
the size needed, intended use etc. It was felt that the pavilion should be a combination indoor/outdoor
facility to accommodate winter use of the, park. The building should be able to accommodate 250 people
and be programmable year round.
In March the sub-committee discussed referendum planning, the decision not to investigate
acquisition of available land on Wescott Road, and the decision to not acquire 5 lots of the Mallard Park
Addition to preserve wetlands.
ROUND TABLE
Stephen Thompson expressed his concern for the vandalism that has been occurring at Thomas
Lake Park pavilion. Director Vraa noted that vandalism has increased significantly at several of the parks.
Member Markell suggested looking into installing some type of electronic surveillance. Member Kubik
suggested that regular users of the parks could be solicited to report any questionable activity. Member
Vincent added that the potential for a volunteer program using cellular phones or radios may be an option
to be considered as well. It was noted that this issue could be added to the 1995 Commission Work Plan
as part of the discussion to include volunteers in several capacities.
While searching for a date for the Commission to meet relative to the 1995 Work Plan, it was the
consensus of the Commission that a meeting be held on May 2, 7:00 pm at the Central Maintenance
Facility.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 17, 1995 Meeting
Page 11
Member Wallace commented on the mentorship program which is being proposed to help
acclimate new Commission members to the procedures of the Commission. This is an attempt to bring new
members "up to speed" as soon as possible so there is a better understanding of the responsibilities of
Commission members.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to conduct, George Kubik moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all
members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:20 pm.
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