07/17/1995 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
JULY 17, 1995
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called
to order at 7:00 pm on July 17, 1995 with the following Commission Members present: George Kubik,
Cindy Lynch, Lee Markell, John Rudolph, David Szott, Stephen Thompson, Michael Vincent, Thomas
Walkington,Sherie Wallace and Jonathan Widem. Commission Member Ken Tyler was not present. Staff
present included Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; Paul Olson, Park Superintendent; C.).
Lilly, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner; Rich Brasch, Water Resources Coordinator; Gregg Hove, Forestry
Supervisor; and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary.
Member Vincent asked to incorporate bond referendum planning under "Future Bond
Referendum/Caponi Art Park" as New Business. George Kubik moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all
members voting in favor to accept the agenda as amended. (may
John Rudolph moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the
regular minutes of April 17, 1995 as presented.
Superintendent Peterson highlighted several items included within the Department Happenings
including the City providing an interpreter for the hearing impaired at each Evening in the Park event;
reservations for fall field use for sports is beginning; over 1,122 children are involved in Summer in the
Park; Adult slo-pitch softball is moving into it's final weeks and plans are beginning for fall softball; the
introduction of nature programs has been very successful; trails along Pilot Knob Road and Lexington
Avenue are included in the seal coating bids and a 10-1/2' rotary mower is being purchased for park and
boulevard use. ~Wlvffml
Stephen Thompson 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. Tan-Me Industrial Park-APPRO Development. This development would be responsible for a
cash parks dedication and cash trails dedication. Individual Lot Tree Preservation Plans will be
required for Lots 1, 2 and 3 and this development will also require a cash dedication for water
quality mitigation.
2. Town Centre 100 Sixteenth Addition. This development will require the developer to satisfy
water quality mitigation requirements through a combination of on-site ponding and a
supplemental cash dedication. The pond shall be designed to provide partial treatment for the
entire planned development. The supplemental cash dedication shall be pro-rated based on
16 the area for the entire planned development.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 19, 1995 Meeting
Page 2
3. Eagan Heights - RLK Associates, LTD. This development would be responsible for a cash
parks dedication and a cash trails dedication. The Tree Preservation Plan should be approved
as proposed. The developer shall install 9 Category A trees or 18 Category B trees or 36
Category C trees as mitigation for significant tree removal in excess of allowable limits. This
tree replacement will be in addition to any vegetation required in a landscape plan. Tree
Protective Measures (i.e. 4 foot polyethylene laminate safety netting) shall 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 shall 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. The developer shall be given credit for the on-site
ponding identified in the current site plan, and a supplemental cash dedication shall be
required as mitigation for the shortfall in treatment provided by the proposed pond system.
Filling and draining of the wetland on the site shall be prohibited.
4. Soderholm Addition. This development would be responsible for a cash trails dedication and
the Tree Preservation Plan shall be approved as submitted. 7 smaller existing landscape trees
(3", 4", three 5" pine, 6" pine, 3' ash and a 4' ash) shall be preserved via transplanting to a
"safe area" on site or made available to City staff to transplant to a park area. This
development meets water quality mitigation requirements with on-site ponding. The current
design of the pond is unacceptable and will need to be modified. The final pond design must
be approved by the Water Resources Coordinator.
5. Delosh Addition - Wayne Brekken. This development is responsible for a cash trail dedication
and a cash parks dedication. The Tree Preservation Plan should be approved as submitted.
The development shall require Tree Protective Measures (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. The developer shall
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. Individual Lot Tree Preservation
Plans will be required for Lot 6, Block 1. The development shall be responsible for a cash
water quality dedication.
There were no items to be discussed under Development Proposals.
BORCHERT INGERSOLL PROPERTY AGREEMENT/GOPHER SMELTING
Superintendent Peterson explained that the Commission is being asked to review the draft
agreement for a land exchange between the City and Gopher Smelting for North Park.
Member Markell asked John Tapper from Gopher Resource Corporation to explain the financial
ramifications of the trade. Mr. Tapper responded that both properties have assessments but the trade will
be a fairly equal transaction for both parties. Member Szott explained that the Land Acquisition
Subcommittee had reviewed this issue during a work session and were expecting that a trail would extend
around the entire southern end of the wetland. The sub-committee wanted to ensure that the necessary
easements were provided to allow for that trail. Mr. Tapper explained that the easements can still occur
and noted that Gopher Resource Corporation will ensure that the necessary easements are provided to
facilitate this trail.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 19, 1995 Meeting
Page 3
Member Vincent questioned the rational for incorporating future lease dollars within the value of a
parcel as Gopher Resources has shown. Vincent explained that the lease dollars are not relevant and
should not be incorporated into the value. Mr. Tapper responded that it was felt that the composting site
should remain at its present location and this provision allows the City to receive the revenue from this site
over the next 3 years. Gopher Resources is taking the risk in that the compost site may not generate
$12,000 per year, which is what has been projected, Tapper added. He did note, however, that this is not
typically figured into the value of a parcel.
Member Vincent continued that the way the agreement is set up, the City is a responsible partner
in the composting site but the revenues have been calculated into the value. He opined that this implies
that the City will also be responsible for the relocation of the site once the 3 year time period has expired.
Mr. Tapper explained that after 3 years the City is being asked to facilitate the move and his interpretation
is that the City will 'support' the relocation of the composting site if necessary. Member Vincent again
explained that he would like to see this issue clarified in the agreement. Mr. Tapper explained that he
would clarify the City's responsibility with this issue, specifying that it would be simply support, with no
financial obligation in the future. The City's responsibility can then be addressed at the end of the 3 year
period.
After further brief discussion, Jonathan Widem moved, Tom Walkington seconded with all
members voting in favor to recommend that the draft agreement with Gopher Smelting for the North Park
land exchange be forwarded onto the City Council for their review and action based on the
recommendations made by the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission.
PEDESTRIAN CROSSWALK POLICY
Superintendent Peterson summarized the discussion held by the Recreation Subcommittee relative
to the crosswalk policy and reviewed the four recommendations the subcommittee was suggesting for
Commission review and action.
Member Wallace indicated the Recreation Subcommittee had had a good discussion of this issue
and had looked at a variety of park sites that may have crosswalk concerns. The subcommittee concluded
that there is a need to look at each situation individually and assess the concerns and need. A study will
be completed shortly addressing some of these crosswalk issues as they impact access to parks. Safety,
Wallace continued, was the primary issue during the discussion. It was suggested that a representative of
the APRNRC would work with other department representatives to address the safety issues.
Member Rudolph stated that because this is such a new area, this issue needs to be worked on
slowly and adjusted/adapted as necessary. Rudolph concluded that there was very good input from the
people attending the subcommittee meeting. Member Kubik asked what staff involvement would be in this
process. Member Rudolph responded that they would need to look at vehicle traffic, site lines, etc. which
will be worked on cooperatively with the Engineering Department.
After a brief discussion John Rudolph moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting
in favor to make the following recommendation to the City Council:
1. A separate section addressing crosswalks to parks be written for the Pedestrian Crosswalk
Policy. An objective matrix of safety warrants be developed based on vehicular speed,
volume, width of street, visibility and pedestrian demographics.
2. A pedestrian study be conducted.
3. Consideration be given to creating a safety review ad hoc committee whose purpose would be
to review neighborhood requests for crosswalk safety devices of a higher level than warranted
by the objective matrix.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 19, 1995 Meeting
Page 4
4. The City's sidewalk policy be utilized as the standard for neighborhood financial participation
for installation of pedestrian crosswalk devices that supersede the objective matrix level of
protection.
MOSQUITO CONTROL RECOMMENDATION
Parks Superintendent Olson introduced this item explaining that in February, 1994 the City Council
had directed the APRNRC to review and develop a recommendation regarding mosquito control practices in
the City of Eagan. The Natural Resources Subcommittee discussed this issue on October 5, 1994 followed
by APRNRC discussion on October 17 wherein the Commission deferred this item to allow time for
additional input from interest groups and the public. A press release was placed in the local papers in
June identifying a public hearing on June 15 and soliciting public input through July 1, 1995. On June 15,
1995, Olson continued, the public hearing was held as requested by the City Council, to collect comments
pertaining to this issue with 4 representatives of the MMCD, one citizen and one representative of the
-Human Ecology Action League present. Public comment remained open and was received through July 1.
As a follow-up to the public hearing, MMCD and the Human Ecology Action League were offered the
opportunity to submit written summaries of their positions which Superintendent Olson indicated were
included within the packet. The Natural Resources sub-committee reviewed this issue for recommendation
again on July 11 resulting in divided opinions. Superintendent Olson concluded that the issue is now
before the Commission for their review and recommendation to the City Council. It is expected that the
Council will be reviewing this issue on July 18, 1995.
Superintendent Olson added that approximately 20 letters had been received during the public
comment period with 18 indicating support for the MMCD program and 2 expressing concerns related to
the use of chemicals. Options identified for the Commission to consider included 1) continuing
participation in the current mosquito control program; 2) continuing the current MMCD program but not to
allow the spraying of adult mosquito habitat on public property; 3) allow for adult spraying but eliminate
larval treatment; 4)"opt" out of the MMCD nuisance mosquito control program and/or 5) educate the public
regarding alternative control methods and their options as landowners. Olson commented that some
communities have opted out of the MMCD program and individuals have also opted out of this program as
well.
Chairman Markell asked if there was anyone from the public present to address this issue. Jim
Starke, Public Affairs for the MMCD responded that they were present to respond to any questions the
Commission may have relative to this issue. He stated that the public input process is very much
appreciated and was pleased that the majority of Eagan residents, based on the response from the public,
have expressed support for the MMCD program as it exists. Starke did note that although some cities have
opted out of the program on public land, the City of Lakeville is an example of a city that looked at the
process several years ago and opted to stay with the MMCD program. It was noted that environmental
compatibility and safety are the two biggest issues the MMCD considers in working with mosquito control
issues. He indicated that park and recreation areas are posted when spraying is going to occur and there is
a recorded message that is updated daily for residents to call for that information. Additionally, individuals
can call and ask to be contacted directly when spraying will occur near their home. The MMCD, Starke
continued, wants to continue protecting the health and well-being of Eagan residents and they firmly
believe in the safety of their program.
Member Widem, chairman of the Natural Resources sub-committee, stated that when this issue was
discussed at the sub-committee level the opinions were divided. He stated that with the support of the EPA
and the Mn. Dept of Health he was comfortable with the products being used by the MMCD for mosquito
control. In addition, it was apparent that the response from the public to date overwhelmingly supported
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 19, 1995 Meeting
Page 5
continuation of the MMCD program. Widem also noted that to his knowledge, until this issue had been
brought forward, there had not been any negative input from residents relative to the mosquito control
program within the City. Widem concluded that this is an issue where there will always be differing
opinions but that he supported continuation of the mosquito control program as it exists.
Member Vincent asked how the public is educated relative to this issue and who is responsible for
providing that education. Jim Starke stated that the MMCD is primarily responsible for providing education
to residents through presentations at schools, information in local newspapers and some neighborhood
distribution, information at fairs, libraries and government buildings. The information is made available
whenever there is a vehicle to provide it, Starke concluded. Member Vincent stated that if the MMCD
program is to continue within the City he wanted to see increased education provided by the MMCD for
residents in an attempt to diminish chemical use within the City and help residents understand how they
can help to control mosquitos by other means.
Member Markell commented that the primary control provided by the MMCD was for nuisance
control of mosquitos rather than for disease control which is the area that is generally highly publicized.
Markell asked if there were any statistics supporting park usage decreasing in areas where the MMCD no
longer sprays or conversely, whether park usage increases in areas where they do spray. Superintendent
Olson stated that there have been no discussions or statistics available, to his knowledge, relative to this
issue.
Member Markell asked if there were cities that had opted out and then approached MMCD to re-
enter the program. Starke stated that there were none to his knowledge, however, the MMCD still gets
complaints from residents in Chanhassen and Maplewood where those cities have opted out of the program
in public areas.
Member Thompson commented that the public's perception is that mosquitos are disliked. It is not
clear in his mind that control has been effective to date and he would prefer to see the City take a
conservative stand on this issue. Thompson suggested that adult spraying occur on a request basis only,
that the City opt out of the larval control portion of mosquito control and that any concentrated effort be
placed on disease control when appropriate. Member Markel) concurred with Thompson's suggestions.
Member Kubik stated his concern for continuing mosquito control as it currently exists and
suggested looking at other options along with investigating the financial implications of this program.
Member Walkington stated he thought the MMCD had been and continues to be environmentally
responsible in their mosquito control program and wanted to see the program continued.
After further brief discussion, Michael Vincent moved and Jonathan Widem seconded a motion to
make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to mosquito control procedures within the
City of Eagan:
1. Continue to participate in the current mosquito control program as administered and implemented
by the MMCD. This includes the treatment of larvae sites with chemical briquets and the ground
spraying of adult mosquito habitat on public property.
2. Create an aggressive public education program, administered and implemented by the MMCD, in
cooperation with the City of Eagan, regarding alternative control methods and their options in an
attempt to reduce the level of chemicals used within the City of Eagan.
S Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 19, 1995 Meeting
Page 6
3. The MMCD shall provide an annual report of the amount of chemicals used and in which locations
within the City of Eagan. There should be a concentrated effort to reduce the amount of chemicals
each year.
Those voting Aye included Tom Walkington, Michael Vincent, David Szott, Jonathan Widem, John
Rudolph, Sherie Wallace and Cindy Lynch. Those voting Nay included Lee Markell, George Kubik and
Stephen Thompson. The motion passed.
ACQUISITION OF NORTHWEST CORNER OF NORTH PARK
Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Lilly introduced this item explaining that the City has been exploring
the possibility of continuing the proposed trail around the northwest portion of the wetland within North
Park. In order to provide for this extension, the City will need to acquire easements from the existing
landowners. Staff is looking for direction from the Commission as to whether negotiations should continue
relative to the acquisition of trail easements in this northwest portion of North Park.
George Kubik moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting in favor to direct staff to
continue negotiations for the acquisition of a trail easement within the northwest portion of North Park to
allow for the trail to continue in that location.
FUTURE BOND REFERENDUM/CAPONI ART PARK
Member Vincent explained that the City Council had directed the APRNRC to research the issue of a
future bond referendum. Vincent moved, Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to make the
following recommendations to the City Council relative to a future bond referendum:
1. Assign one member from each of the three sub-committees (other commission members are
welcome) along with a staff representative to evaluate and develop an outline for a Park and Open
Space bond referendum:
2. The task force will report it's findings and recommendations within 60 days directly to the
Commission. Recommendations should include but are not limited to:
• A view of park, open space, recreation and natural resource needs.
• Providing a ranking system of the needs and goals.
• An accountability of bond fund uses and issues.
• Recommendations of outside resources the Commission may want to review and/or use
in assisting with the bond.
Member Wallace expressed her appreciation for the initiative in getting this project started but felt the
whole Commission should be involved in the discussions. Member Szott agreed. Member Vincent stated
that the meetings would be set up so that any Commission member could attend and participate, but that
he felt it was necessary to have a "core group" to keep the process on task. Members volunteering to serve
on the task force included Michael Vincent, Lee Markell, John Rudolph and Sherie Wallace with Vincent
serving as chair.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 19, 1995 Meeting
Page 7
Superintendent Peterson explained that Professor Caponi was not able to participate in the
Commission's discussion regarding this issue nor was he able to provide an overview of the Caponi Art
Park, however, he was aware that the Art Park was being considered for inclusion within the bond
referendum discussion process. Tom Walkington moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members
voting in favor to incorporate the Caponi Art Park into the discussion and study process for a future bond
referendum
Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Lilly reviewed the Borchert Ingersoll property showing the potential
development of 4 softball fields, sand volleyball, picnic area, playground and parking lot. The trails within
the park will be bituminous, however the trails surrounding the wetland will be mowed/soft surface. At
the Lexington/Diffley site the irrigation/fencing is nearing completion with the turf to be done by late fall in
anticipation for a 1996 opening.
SUBCOMMITTEE UPDATES ON COMMISSION GOALS
Member Widem of the Natural Resources sub-committee explained that they had met on July 12 to
begin the review process of the Water Quality Management Program focusing on classification and
prioritization. Another issue the sub-committee is working on is a fertilization ordinance. They are looking
at the legal boundaries and how other communities have handled this issue of banning or controlling
fertilizers before moving ahead with an ordinance proposal. This would be done in conjunction with a
strong education program.
Member Szott explained the Land Acquisition sub-committee had spent a great deal of time reviewing
the downtown park development. The next project being discussed was the acquisition of additional space
at North Park for the continuation of the bike trail to the south of the wetland area. Holz Farm planning
has also been a large portion of the sub-committees discussion.
Member Wallace of the Recreation sub-committee explained they are evaluating the mission of
recreation/leisure policies by setting up 14 criteria to determine how a program fits those criteria. The
crosswalk policy was a recent issue assigned to the sub-committee which they reviewed and provided a
recommendation to the Commission. The Behavior Policy was another issue brought to the Commission
which was adopted for use during the 1995 summer programming. Corporate giving/sponsorship is another
open issue for the sub-committee to discuss.
LEGISLATIVE MANDATE FOR NEW DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
Superintendent Peterson explained that staff had hoped to have more details and clarification of the
new Legislative mandate to review development proposals within a 60 day time frame. Information was
not available as yet to share with the Commission, however, this item should appear again on the August
agenda.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of July 19, 1995 Meeting
Page 8
WINXIMM.
Coordinator Brasch explained that a revised development plan had been received for Easter Lutheran
Church and they are asking for a recommendation from the Commission at their August 14 meeting.
Brasch suggested scheduling a Natural Resources sub-committee meeting to discuss this item prior to the
August 14 meeting. Tuesday, July 25 was selected as a meeting date.
Member Wallace asked if there was a way to provide clearer exhibits within the packet. She noted
that some of the reduced maps are very difficult to read. Member Rudolph thanked the City Council for
their recognition of volunteers during a recent picnic. Although he was unable to attend, he appreciated
the gesture by the Council in showing their appreciation of volunteers. Member Markell stated he was
impressed with the interest by the Eagan Garden Club in the Holz Farm garden.
Member Vincent asked if there would be a way for staff to provide an "executive summary' which
would provide a brief background and recommendations for the Commission to consider. He asked that
just enough information be provided to give the audience an overview rather than provide a lengthy review
and presentation. Member Kubik suggested that perhaps Director Vraa could provide some direction as to
how something in between can be accomplished. Member Walkington suggested that there be more
discussion of issues rather than review of written materials.
With no further business to conduct, Jonathan Widem moved, George Kubik seconded with all
members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 pm.
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Secretary Date
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