02/20/1996 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
FEBRUARY 20, 1996
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called
to order at 7:00 pm on February 20, 1996 with the following Commission Members present; Lee Markell,
Ken Tyler, john Rudolph, David Szott, Michael Vincent, Stephen Thompson, George Kubik, Randall Ahern,
Tim Callister, Guy Kohtnhofer and Daryle Petersen. Staff present included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and
Recreation; Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; C) Lilly, Landscape Architect, )on Oyanagi,
Recreation Supervisor, Rich Brasch, Water Resources Coordinator; Gregg Hove, Forestry Supervisor; Paul
Olson, Superintendent of Parks and Cheryl Stevenson, Clerical Technician.
INTRODUCTION OF NEW MEMBERS
Director Vraa introduced and welcomed Randall Ahern, having been appointed to a three year
term. Tim Callister, having replaced Sherie Wallace's term and Daryle Petersen, having replaced Tom
Walkington's term. Guy Kohtnhofer was appointed as the new one year alternate.
COMMISSION ORGANIZATR7N
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 David Szott seconded the nomination of Lee Markell. A unanimous ballot was cast for lee
Markell as Chair.
Director Vraa opened nominations for Vice-Chair. Lee Markell nominated and Ken Tyler seconded
the nomination of Stephen Thompson. George Kubik nominated and Lee Markell. seconded the nomination
of John Rudolph. The nominations were closed, written ballots submitted and counted naming Stephen
Thompson as Vice-Chair.
Director Vraa opened nominations for Secretary. John Rudolph nominated and David Szott
seconded the nomination of Michael Vincent. Stephen Thompson nominated and Lee Markell seconded
the nomination of Ken Tyler. Stephen Thompson nominated and Randall Ahern seconded the nomination
of John Rudolph. The nominations were closed, written ballots submitted and counted naming John
Rudolph as Secretary.
After a brief description of the different sub-committees, Director Vraa then turned the meeting over
to Chairman Lee Markell for the appointment of members to the various sub-committees. Chairman
Markell suggested that the appointment of sub-committees be discussed during the Round Table thus giving
each member a chance to decide which one, if any, they would like to participate on.
AGENDA
George Kubik moved, Stephen Thompson seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the
agenda as presented.
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF JANUARY 16, 1996
George Kubik moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the
minutes of the regular meeting of January 20, 1996 as presented.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 20, 1996 Meeting
Page 2
VLSITORS TO BE HEARD
There was no one who wished to address the Commission under this agenda item.
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS
Some items highlighted by Director Vraa included the first community focus group concerning a
potential- park bond referendum which will occur on February 26 with the Eagan Athletic Association.
Because of the unusual weather during the past month it was necessary to close the ice rinks today. The
tubing hill at Trapp Farm will be monitored to see how long it can remain open. The use of a new dust
free fertilizer is being researched for use this spring. 55/Alive, safe driving classes have been offered
recently.
CONSENT AGENDA
There were no items on agenda for the Commission to review.
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS
Robins 2nd Addition
After a .brief introduction by Director Vraa, Planner Farnham explained that Mr. Allen is requesting
approval of a preliminary sub-division which consists of 4 lots and a preliminary planned development to
accommodate a mixed office/light industrial development. This site is located on Blue Gentian Road, west
of TH 149 and south of I-494.
There are no major planning issues regarding the proposed subdivision and planned development.
A 1.16 acre scenic easement exists in the northeast corner of the property. This area is wooded and will
not be disturbed by proposed development. With this request the City is proposing an amendment to the
Comprehensive Guide Plan and to redesignate this property to new Business Park land use. This land is
currently guided for Commercial use.
Member Markel) asked about plans south of Blue Gentian at this time. Farnham responded that a
concept plan will be developed to be consistent with what is being done on the north side. Markel)
explained that the Commission had looked at that area. south of Bfue Gentain as potential open space
acquisition for parks and that although the water body was not a natural lake, some recreational
opportunities, i.e. trails, may exist. He suggested that the developer take a look at this before development
starts. He also commented that the Commission would be glad to look at some concept drawings.
Farnham commented that the development contract isn't that far yet. The developer was in the audience,
but had nothing else to add.
Coordinator Brasch explained that there is an issue related to ponding on this. particular planned
development. The developer contends that with the transfer to the City of drainage and utility easements
for Pond FP-1 (as partof a grading permit agreement reached in 1982) that by grading a flood easement
they have satisfied both the flood volume management issue and the water quality issue. Staff and the City
Attorney have looked at the agreement and do not agree. Staff and the City Attorney believes that there is
no verbiage in the agreement that pertains to stormwater management issues other than flood control.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 20, 1996 Meeting
Page 3
After further brief discussion Michael Vincent moved, George Kubik seconded with all members
voting in favor to make the following recommendations:
1. This development would be subject to a cash parks dedication.
2. This development would be subject to a cash trails dedication.
3. There are no Tree Preservation issues with this development.
4. If the City Council finds that water quality mitigation requirements have not been met by
past agreements, the developer shall be subject to an on-site ponding requirement. To the
degree that the on-site ponding design provided by the developer is inadequate to meet full
mitigation requirements, a cash dedication will be required.
OLD BUSINESS
PARK NAMING
Superintendent Peterson explained that at the January meeting this item was addressed and time
was requested to look at other aspects for naming the Lexington Diffley Athletic Complex. The stories
relative to naming this site were related to airplane touchdown locations during World War II for pilots in
training. While speaking with several members of the community most remembered planes flying by but
do not recall- much else. Superintendent Peterson reiterated that the two names for the Commission to
consider were Lexington Diffley Athletic Fields or Lexington Diffley Athletic Park.
Member Thompson responded that the information he found said there were definitely touchdown
flights. He also went to the Historical Society and pulled out some flat maps. Member Thompson offered
2 other Warne options rather than naming the park after the intersection where it's located. One option was
to name the park in honor of the Quigley's, even though there is a lake named after them. Another
possibility is to give historical honor to the aviation industry by naming the park Bi-plane Landing Athletic
Fields. Member Thompson continued that after polling a number of people, most were not in favor of the
name "Lexington Diffley Athletic Complex"; they wanted something more than just an intersection name.
Member Kubik addressed Chair Markell by saying that the Lexington Diffley Athletic Park name
gives location of the field and the athletic park destination and gives a feeling of what is located at that site.
Member Kubik made the recommendation that the Lexington Diffley Athletic Park name be accepted. John
Rudolph seconded. Those voting aye included: Members Ahern, Callister, Kohlnhofer, Kubik, Markell,
Petersen, Rudolph, Szott and Tyler. Those voting nay included Members Thompson and Vincent. The
motion was passed.
TREE PRESERVATION ORDINANCE
FINAL DRAFT
Forestry Supervisor Hove briefly explained the final draft of the Tree Preservation Ordinance and
the process over the last several months as directed by the City Council. The Advisory Planning
Commission public hearing will be held next Tuesday and this issue will then be presented at the March 4
City Council Meeting. After a brief description of the ordinance for the new members Forestry Supervisor
Hove ended his presentation.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 20, 1996 Meeting
Page 4
Member Rudolph asked if developers, working in several different communities, would look at this
as a drastic change from other communities or is this similar to what other communities are drafting.
Forestry Supervisor Hove responded that all municipalities have slight differences within their ordinance or
policies, but this was developed by studying other communities and seeing what they are doing and trying
to do the same. Hove explained that it's easier to have these ordinances and policies to keep things
running smoothly. Member Tyler asked how they came up with the maximum amount of $10,000 for a
performance guarantee. Hove responded this figure has been used in the past for similar situations and it
hasn't posed a problem.
Member Kubik asked Hove to let the Commission know in 6 months how the ordinance is working
out.- )ohn Rudolph moved, Tim Callister seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend approval
of the Tree Preservation Ordinance to the City Council.
HOLZ FARM REPORT -FINAL DRAFT
After a brief introduction. by Director Vraa, Supervisor Oyanagi explained that the Holz Farm Task
Force has been working on a draft report and recommendations for the Commission's review. Highlighted
were several items including the reason the Task Force has targeted the period surrounding 1940 as the era
to restore the buildings and to create programs around.
Member Vincent asked how they were planning on getting programs started -how will this become
common knowledge within the community? Supervisor Oyanagi responded that the Task Force had talked
about several ideas for marketing. A lot of the marketing centers around what actually will be programmed
at the site. Brochures, newsletters, memberships and school tours were discussed as marketing tools.
Member Vincent commented that it might be good to dedicate a brief paragraph to justify how people will
find out about the farm.
Member Callister asked about plans to purchase the land to the north and the west . Supervisor
Oyanagi responded that the Task Force is recommending that acquisition. Member Kubik commented on
the portable video security system as one of the options listed in the report that would work good at Holz
Farm.
After further discussion George Kubik moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting
in favor to accept the Final Draft of the Holz Farm Report and recommend approval by the City Council.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, LOCAL GRANTS PROGRAM
Superintendent Peterson briefly described the grant program. A year ago an application was
submitted for a local grant from the Outdoor Recreation portion for assistance in the development of North
Park. These are LCMR funds and the maximum amount is $50,000. Since that time, the CIP for 1996 has
ear marked site restoration at North Park. Although development at North Park has been identified for
1997, the source of approximately one million dollars of funding that would be required to develop that
park could not be identified. Based on what is known, Commission direction is needed concerning
acceptance or rejection of the Outdoor Recreation Grant Funds in the amount of $50,000 for North Park.
Member Kubik asked if this puts the City at any disadvantage for future grants through this
program. Superintendent Peterson responded if the City does not accept, that may be the case. Member
Callister asked if the money would go back if the City accepted the grant but didn't use it, will this
jeopardize future grants? Director Vraa commented that the DNR would look unfavorably upon that.
Member Markel) asked if money could be taken from the Park Site Fund to match the dollar amount of the
grant? Director Vraa stated that the first phase of development would cost $450,000 to a million dollars.
Member Kubik recalled there was no phased development in-that park.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 20, 1996 Meeting
Page 5
In response to a question, Superintendent Peterson stated this money would have to be identified
for North Park. The money can't be used somewhere else. Peterson added that work tied to the $50,000
grant would have to be completed by November 1, 1997.
Member Markell added there are other grant possibilities available through the DNR; one is for
land acquisition and one is for development. He asked if it was conceivable to break-up the development
phase so that the grading would qualify. Peterson responded yes. Member Kubik suggested that the City
would be better off passing on the dollars rather than creating a significant liability of planning this park.
Member Vincent asked if the grant were declined, when could the City apply again. Peterson answered one
year. Member Thompson added if it's aone-to-one grant we would have to come up with $50,000 in
order to get $50,000 and questioned if there was $100,000 worth of significant improvement projects to
maximize the potential of this land. Director Vraa responded that more than $50,000 would be needed to
accomplish anything. Dollars needed would be close to $350 - $450,000.
George Kubik made the motion to reject the Outdoor Recreation Grant in the amount of $50,000,
and maybe apply at a later date. Michael Vincent seconded the motion. Member Markell suggested that
staff and the recreation sub-committee work to see whether or not opportunities are being missed and defer
this item to the March Commission meeting. With the majority of the members voting nay the motion was
defeated.
Member Markell moved to have staff work with the Land Acquisition & Development
Sub-Committee and present their findings at the next Commission Meeting. John Rudolph seconded with
all members voting in favor. The motion passed.
NEW BUSINESS
There were no items of new business for the Commission to review.
PARKS DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
SLACKHAWK PAVILION BUILDING
Park Planner Lilly briefly explained the Blackhawk pavilion building bids. Seven
contractors recently bid on this project and Thor Construction was the low bidder at $249,969. The
architect's estimate for this building was $317,000. Two of the alternates considered a metal roof quoted at
$38,160 and a fire pit and seating area for $12,670. It was decided to go with the fire pit and seating area
The total bid for the building and added alternates is $262,639. Three addendum items will have to be
added to the contract including a metal roof, two drinking fountains, and modifying the sinks to meet ADA
requirements. Construction is to begin as soon as the ground thaws in April with completion scheduled by
July 15.
A brief update followed on the salvaging of some of the farm buildings on the Sell farm.
Park Planner Lilly also provided an update on the new park maintenance building at Lexington/Diffley.
Also highlighted was the environmental analysis that is currently in progress at Patrick Eagan Park. Member
Kubik asked who was conducting the analysis. Lilly responded that he,Gregg Hove and Monica Mogren,
have been working on it.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 20, 1996 Meeting
Page 6
WATER RESOURCES UPDATE
WETLAND BUFFER ORDINANCE
Coordinator Brasch gave a brief overview of the status of the Wetland Buffer Ordinance which
creates two graded classes. Currently there are 3 classes of wetlands with different buffer standards. This
ordinance would apply to first class type 3-8 wetlands which generally look like wetlands, as well as types
1 & 2 which are seasonal wetlands adjacent to state protected water. There are approximately 65 in the
City to which a 50 foot buffer is attached. A buffer is defined as an ungraded, unmaintained area that
extends a number of feet back from the upper most edge of the wetland. The 2nd class is Type 1 & 2
wetlands that are basically isolated and are not adjacent to state protected water which provides for a
minimum 30 ft buffer. As a result of the Natural Resources Sub-Committee meeting, a 3rd class for
wetland was created; Types 1 & 2 seasonally flooded wetlands that are under 2,000 sq. ft.with a 20 foot
buffer attached. The intent is to keep the upper buffer as natural as can be. There is a provision in the
proposed ordinance to allow access to the wetland edge but it's very restrictive. Essentially it would only
allow one path up to 10 ft wide to traverse the width of the upper edge of the buffer to the wetland edge.
There's also a permanent monumentation of the buffer required and the current language is requesting
easement over the buffer. Several exemptions to the requirements that include structures in existence,
would not be proposed to apply retroactively.
It is hoped that the final revision can be presented to the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural
Resources Commission at the March meeting. Because this is a proposed ordinance, the part of the
subdivision chapter of the City Code has to go before the Planning Commission and will be presented to
the Planning Commission during a workshop on March 21. The Planning Commission then would hold a
hearing in April and the ordinance will hopefully be before the City Council for their review and adoption
sometime in May.
Member Kubik if there were any provisions for when the land might change ownership i.e. would
structures remain on as an exemption? Coordinator Brasch answered yes; under the current version of the
ordinance they would. The intent is not to require anyone to tear anything out regardless what the change
in ownership is. Some changes were made and the ordinance would apply to those changes and require
that they not infringe on the buffer anymore than they already have.
Member Kubik responded this is an ordinance the City has long been seeking. He expressed his
pleasure in seeing it completed.
George Kubik made the motion that the Commission support passage of this ordinance by the City
Council. John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor.
OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS
TRAIL SNOW AND REMOVAL RESULTS
Director Vraa stated a survey of other communities has been done to find out what they're doing
and what equipment is being used. That survey will be provided to the Commission soon.
Member Tyler asked if this covers City maintained sidewalks as well as schools and trails along
streets. Director Vraa responded by describing some of the trailways the City currently clears and those
they don't. Member Kubik asked if the survey will include any thoughts or recommendations in regard to
liability. Director Vraa responded yes.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 20, 1996 Meeting
Page 7
MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR FORT SNELLING STATE PARK UPDATE
Director Vraa briefly stated that Fort Snelling State Park is going to be updating their Master
Management Plan for the State Park and that the City is affected because we boarder a significant amount
of that state park.
DEER MANAGEMENT TASK FORCE UPDATE
Director Vraa explained the City Council has approved expenditures of about $750 to do an aerial
survey of the deer herd in Eagan. The number of .deer have slowly been increasing in our community with
significant car/deer accidents occurring in the community. Last year there were approximately 360
accidents. The Deer Management Task Force, along with the DNR and animal rights groups, have been
meeting for a number of years and have looked at several ways to manage these problems.
TRI-MAX GRANT
Director Vraa stated that the City has been renting an apartment at Wescott Commons to work a
little closer with a number of high risk youths. The City has been working with School District 196 and
employ a Recreation Supervisor to concentrate efforts at both the school and at Wescott Commons, to work
with setting up role models and providing recreational activities. There have been some successes and
we've received a report from the Police Department which has identified a significant reduction in juvenile
police contacts. In December a letter was received from the management group at Wescott Square saying
they would no longer be able to subsidize half on the rent and the City would have to pay it all in 1996.
The City already had budgeted to pay half, so a lease was signed for six months. We are now trying to
secure funding for the remaining six months of the year. One of the alternatives being looked at is the
option of trying to purchase the unit in the building. Grants have been applied for and one has been
received from the Tri-Max Group.
)ohn Rudolph made the motion that the City accept the grant, George Kubik seconded with all
members voting in favor.
ROUND TABLE
Member Markell opened the discussion for the appointment of members to the various sub-
committees. It was the Commission's recommendation that the sub-committees remain as Recreation,
Natural Resources and Parks Development/Land Acquisition with members John Rudolph, George Kubik,
Randall Ahern serving on the Recreation Sub-Committee; Members Stephen Thompson, Lee Markell,
Daryle Petersen and Tim Ca!lister serving on the Natural Resources Sub-Committee; and Members Michael
Vincent, David Szott, Lee Markell, George Kubik and Ken Tyler serving on the Land Acquisition Sub-
committee. Member Guy Kohlnhofer expressed an interest in serving on the Holz Farm Task Force.
The meeting dates of February 20, March 18, April 15, May 20, June 17, )uly 15, August 19,
September 16, October 21, November 18, December 16, 1996 and January 20, 1997 were designated for
the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission meetings.
Director Vraa wanted to make the Commission aware of a flyer that's been circulating relative to
the Caponi Art Park which has incorrect information. Letters have also been received addressing the
Carriage Hills Golf Course issue. The letters were given to the City Administrator's office. On March 25
there will be a public hearing held by the Advisory Planning Commission and City Council relative to
Carriage Hills.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of February 20, 1996 Meeting
Page 8
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to conduct, ~hn Rudolph moved, George Kubik seconded with all
members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m.
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