04/15/1996 - Advisory Parks & Recreation CommissionMINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF
ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
APRIL 15, 1996
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called to
order at 7:00 p.m. on April 15, 1996 with the following Commission Members present: Lee Markell, John
Rudolph, David Szott, Stephen Thompson, George Kubik, Randall Ahem, Tim Callister, Guy Kohlnhofer, Daryle
Petersen and Michael Vincent. Commission Member Ken Tyler was not present. Staff present included Ken
Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; Paul Olson Parks
Superintendent; CJ Lilly, Landscape Architect; Rich Brasch, Water Resources CoorcJinator; Gregg Hove, Forestry
Supervisor; Paula Nowariak, Recreation Supervisor; Jon Oyanagi, Recreation Supervisor; Mike Ridley, Senior
Planner and Chenyl Mesko, Secretary.
John Rudolph moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the agenda
as proposed.
Tim Callister moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes
of the regular meeting of March 18, 1996 as presented.
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Items highlighted by Director Vraa included the Community Services Open House on May 30, the City
Council authorization to fill the vacant Youth Development Coordinator position, upcoming Arbor Day events
on May 11, salvaging of bam boards from the Sell Farm for possible use at Holz Farm, participation of several
mens and women's volleyball teams in the state volleyball tournament, and the limited number of employees
needed for summer recreation staff due to the high rate of return from last year, tennis nets are up at most of the
parks and the well at Blackhawk Park has been drilled.
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NATURAL AND SCENIC GRANT APPLICATION
ANDERSON PROPERTY
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources
Commission and City Council had approved the submission of a Natural and Scenic Grant application to the
Department of Natural Resources to pursue $100,000 in funding toward the purchase of the Anderson parcel
adjacent to Patrick Eagan Park. A requirement of the grant application, Vraa continued, was that a public
hearing be held concerning the potential acquisition of this parcel of land. The Anderson parcel was described
as being approximately 10 acres in size, located on Lexington Avenue directly south of the Lillian McCarthy
property which was acquired by the Ciry several years ago. It was also noted that Lee Anderson, owner of the
property, approached the City in 1994 inquiring whether there was an interest in acquiring this property. The
acquisition of the Anderson parcel is listed as a high priority on the list of properties generated for a proposed
bond referendum, Vraa added. The property owner has been invited to attend the public hearing and continues
to be supportive of the City acquiring his property.
Since there were no comments from the public during the public hearing, Michael Vincent moved,
John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to close the public hearing and direct staff to prepare
the necessary documents for the Natural and Scenic Grant application.
Stephen Thompson moved, Randall Ahem seconded with all members voting in favor to make the
following recommendations to the City Council:
A. Resolution for Eagan Arbor Day and Eagan Arbor Month.
The Resolution proclaimir-g May 11, 1996 as Eagan Arbor Day and the month of May as Eagan
Arbor Month be accepted.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 15, 1996
Page 2
B. Blackhawk Acres Fourth Addition - ).M.S. Development
1. This development shall be responsible for a cash parks dedication.
2. This development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication.
3. The developer/builder shall submit a Tree Preservation Plan at the time of Building Permit
application.
4. This development shall be responsible for a cash water quality dedication.
GOPHER EAGAN INDUSTRIAL PARK THIRD -GOPHER RESOURCES CORP.
Following a brief introduction by Director Vraa, Senior Planner Ridley explained that this was an
application by Gopher Resource Corp. For approval of a Preliminary Planned Development that will update and
replace the existing approximately 428 acre Gopher-Eagan Park Planned Development which was established in
1977. They are also requesting a Preliminary Subdivision consisting of one lot which is part of the exchange
agreement between the city of Eagan and Gopher Resources for the former Borchert-Ingersoll property. The new
proposed facility will consist of approximately 30,000 s.f. of manufacturing warehouse, 5,000 s.f. of office that
will be leased to Dakota County to operate the household hazardous waste collection site and Dakota County's
recycling center. Ridley added that large portions of the original 428 acre Planned Development have been sold
off over the years and developed by different parties including West Publishing and UPS ,therefore, staff has
requested that Gopher Resource Corp redefine and update the PD in conjunction with this proposal.
John Tapper, representing Gopher Resource Corporation explained that the new facility will process
recycling of plastics. The plastics will be re-washed, re-ground and processed through an extruder with the final
product being used for high quality plastic use.
Member Vincent asked how close this facility will be to the park boundary. Mr. Tapper responded that
the original building is 30 feet back from the property line. Member Petersen asked if there would be a paved
fire protection road. Mr. Tapper responded that it would be gravel. In response to a question relative to
buffering between the sites, Mr. Tapper responded that a landscape buffer will be provided as well as
consideration for a berm since they are interested in being a good neighbor to the park.
Director Vraa shared to proposed park layout identifying where fields could be provided on the site.
Vraa noted that an agreement exists providing buffering between the two sites. Member Petersen asked if a trail
would be provided so that employees of the site can access the park. Mr. Tapper responded that there would be
some type of fencing provided around the Gopher site to diminish access between the sites.
After a brief discussion, Michael Vincent moved, George Kubik seconded with all members voting in
favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to Gopher Eagan Industrial Park Third:
1. This development has fulfilled its parks and trails dedication requirements.
2. The Tree Preservation Plan should be approved as proposed.
3. 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 significant
trees/woodlands to be preserved.
4. The developer shall contact the City Forestry Division at least five days prior to the issuance of the
grading permit to ensure compliance with the approved Tree Preservation Plan.
5. The developer shall meet water quality mitigation requirements through the constn~ction of a two-
cell detention basin, as shown on the plans dated April 3, 1996. The outlet of the pond shall have
a skimmer of acceptable design to the City.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 15, 1996 Meeting
Page 3
6. Filling or draining of the jurisdictional wetland on the site shall be prohibited.
7. The grading plan shall be coordinated with adjacent property owners.
7. All recommendations are subject to the City of Eagan successfully acquiring the former Borchert-
Ingersoll property and completing the successful exchange of property with Gopher Resources.
HOOVESTOL ADDITION - HOOVESTOL, INC.
Following a brief introduction by Director Vraa, Senior Planner Ridley provided a background noting
that this is a request for a Preliminary Subdivision consisting of 4.2 acres to create one lot, a Conditional Use
Permit to allow trucking facility in a Limited Industrial Zoning district. The development will include
construction of a new 18,017 s.f. building with approximately 25°Yo of the building will be used for office.
Collin Everson, Everson Architect, shared concept plans of the building with the Commission and provided
further background of the proposal.
Member Kubik asked if there would be the potential for fuel run-off at this site. It was noted that the
tanks will be underground and monitored electronically. In response to Member Kubik's question relative to
surface spills, it was noted that the area would have curbs and paving to help direct any spills.
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch and Forestry Supervisor Hove provided the Commission with
information relative to water quality, wetlands and tree preservation issues. After a brief discussion, Michael
Vincent moved, Randall Ahem seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following
recommendations to the City Council relative to Hoovestol Addition:
1. This development shall be responsible fora cash parks dedication.
2. This development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication.
3. Staff is recommending approval of the Tree Preservation Plan as proposed with the following
conditions:
• To require a cash mitigation of $15,285.50 to be paid by the applicant and collected through
Community Development before final plat approval.
4. This development shall be responsible for a cash water quality dedication.
UPS 2ND ADDITION -UNITED PARCEL SERVICE
Following a brief description of the development proposal, Senior Planner Ridley noted that this is a
request for a preliminary subdivision for a two lot subdivision and development of a truck sales and service
facility, Chesley Freightliner on the easterly Lot 1. This proposal, Ridley concluded, is very similar to the
Hoovestal proposal previously reviewed by the Commission.
Coordinator Brasch noted that the developer had proposed developing onl the eastem cell of 3 cell
ponds, however staff is requiring the eastern portion to be constructed along with ~ of the center cell. Staff
reviewed the tree preservation issues and parksRrails dedication issues for the Commission as well.
After a brief discussion Michael Vincent moved, George Kubik seconded with all members voting in
favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to UPS 2nd Addition:
1. This development has fulfilled its parks dedication.
2. This development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication.
3. The Tree Preservation Plan shall be approved as submitted.
4. A Tree Preservation Plan for lot 2 shall be submitted at the time of Building Permit or Grading
Permit application.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 15, 1996
Page 4
5. The developer shall meet water quality mitigation requirements through on-site ponding. A two-
cell ponding system shall be constructed with Lot 1 to meet treatment requiremerrts for this portion
of the subdivision. The upper cell shall have a wet volume of at least .3 acre feet, and the lower
cell shall have a wet volume of at least 1 acre-foot for this phase of the development. The pond
system shall be expanded by an additional 1.5 acre-feet in wet volume when Lot 2 develops. The
pond construction sha!! conform with the City's Standards for Detention Basin Design and the
outlet shall have a skimmer of acceptable design to the City.
FAIRFIELD INN SUITES, CSM CORPORATION
Following a brief introduction by Director Vraa and a background by Senior Planner Ridley, Member
Rudolph asked if there would be an access to the back of the building for fires. Planner Ridley responded that
the Fire Marshall will be reviewing this proposal along with the other staff during the review process. Steve
Dubbs of CSM stated that the proposal currently meets fire code.
Mr. Dubbs continued with a review of the proposed 102 room Fairfield Inn which will be similar to an
Embassy Suites. They feel this will be a much needed addition to the City of Eagan.
Director Vraa noted that the steep slopes from the building to the pond may preclude trail installation as
proposed. Coordinator Brasch explained that several options have been looked at relative to water quality
mitigation. A pond in the southwest portion of the site was look at but it exceed the HWL of the DNR
protected pond therefore staff indicated that a combination of on-site ponding and a cash dedication would best
fulfill this requirement. The outlet of the proposed sedimentation basin should also have a skimmer of
acceptable design to the City.
Mr. Dubbs stated that the developer wants this to be a showcase hotel since this is a prototype for
Marriott Suites. They are very excited about the possibility of developing in the City.
After a brief discussion by the Commission, Michael Vincent moved, George Kubik seconded with all
members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to Fairfield Inn
Suites-CS Corporation:
1. This development shall be responsible for a cash parks dedication.
2. This development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication.
3. The Tree Preservation Plan shall be approved as presented.
4. 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 significant
trees/woodlands to be preserved.
5. The developer shall contact the Ciry Forestry Division at least five days prior to the issuance of the
grading permit to ensure compliance with the approved Tree Preservation Plan.
6. The development shall meet water quality mitigation requirements through a combination of on-
site ponding and a cash dedication. The outlet of the proposed sedimentation basin should have a
skimmer of acceptable design to the City.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 15, 1996 Meeting
Page 5
NORTH PARK GRANT APPLICATION
Superintendent Peterson explained that this issue was before the Commission at their February meeting
where it was referred to the land AcquisitioNDevelopment Subcommittee for further study. After the sub-
committee's review of this issue they felt that the $50,000 grant, which carries a November 1, 1997 completion
deadline may be premature for this site. There are still some unresolved issues with this site although the CIP
identifies development of North Park in 1997, Peterson concluded.
Following a brief discussion, Michael Vincent moved, David Szott seconded with all members voting in
favor to recommend rejection of potential funding of the Department's 1995 grant application for North Park.
ACQUISITION OF TAX FORFEIT PROPERTY
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that the Advisory Planning Commission had asked staff to
review this 3.52 acre tax forfeit property to determine its suitability for possible park acquisition and
development, As background, Vraa noted that the City acquired a 6.3 acre parcel of tax forfeit property in 1991
which abuts the west border of the subject parcel. The City acquired the parcel in response to the neighborhood
request for a neighborhood park due to their isolated location. At the time the property was acquired it was
noted that development of the park would not occur until the property to the south was developed to provide
access to the park. This park would be a supplemental park to Sky Hill Park, which is the neighborhood park
for this Park Service District.
The subject parcel is approximately 130 feet in width and 640 feet in length with primary access from
Red Oak Circle which is a private road. The topography that separates the existing park parcel from the subject
parcel ranges between a 2:1 and 3:2 slope; generally considered non-traversable by most able bodied people.
Director Vraa then reviewed potential options for using this site for park purposes.
Commission Member Kubik asked how the existing park site would be accessed. Director Vraa
responded it would be from Violet lane once the property to the south is developed. Commission Member
Peterson asked if there were any current development plans for that site. It was noted there were no plans at
this time for development of that parcel, Staff shared pictures of the site with the Commission.
A resident of Surry Heights stated that their neighborhood felt that the City may not have been aware
that this land was tax forfeit and they opined that it would be in the best interest of the City to acquire the land
rather than to have it developed.
Another Surry Heights resident noted that there are over 400 families in the surrounding area that waM
to see the City keep this property for open space and do not want to see it developed. He opined that no more
multi-family zoning is needed in this area. Commission Member Markell asked if a petition had been done
supporting this position. The resident noted that he could easily get a petition but none had been done to date.
Member Thompson asked how the residents viewed the use of this land if the City acquired it. One
resident suggested open play area for flying kites, baseball, etc. Member Peterson asked if the City acquired the
land but did nothing to it would that be OK. The three residents present suggested that a trail should then be
provided to the current park land so that when it is developed there is access to it.
Member Vincent opined that this may be a place to provide open grassy field space which EAA has
indicated they have a shortage of. Director Vraa responded that this may not be a good location unless there is
a provision made for parking since active use by the athletic association will draw a number of participants.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 15, 1996 Meeting
Page 6
Member Markell asked what the cost implications would be for acquiring this parcel. Director Vraa
responded that there are minimal fees for acquiring the property, however there would be significant costs to
develop this site and for continued maintenance. Another cost would be a monthly fee for the maintenance of
the private road. The homeowners present noted that the cost for acquiring the property would be the filing fee.
Member Vincent asked if this could be left as a buffer between the two developmerrts and perhaps
solicit assistance from the neighbors to help clean up the area. Member Peterson asked what the cost for a trail
from the subject parcel to the park parcel would be. Director Vraa stated that because of the significant grade
change the costs would be significant although a cost analysis has not been done. Vraa continued that if the
intention was to establish turf, significant grading would need to occur and there would also be the issue of
maintenance in the future.
)im Gullikson suggested an option for the site would be to use it as a connecting "finger"' from Town
Center to connect to the Minnesota River with an ultimate destination to Fort Snelling. This, he opined, would
provide a much needed transportation link from the City of Eagan to the state park.
A representative of Principle Construction explained that they have worked with Dakota County to get
this development up and running. They have made arrangements with Royal Oaks to access this development
from their private street. The Commission was then shown a layout plan of the development with a buffer area
of vegetation between the new development and the development to the north
A Surry Heights resident stated that the issue is one of creating more density in the area. The
surrounding residents are using the amenities within Surry Heights as their own and if further development
appears on this site, it will only exaggerate the problem.
The developer was asked if they had any plans to provide green space on their site of if they were open
to providing a trail from their development to the existing park property. The developer responded that they had
not planned to provide a trail link to the park property.
Member Vincent opined that there was no value in acquiring the property other than as a buffer since
the City already owns a 6.3 acre parcel very close by. Although it is a good opportunity, the City needs to look
at their long range plan and efforts should be made to develop the original park site. Vincent also noted that if
the developer is reducing the density and will provide a trail to get to the 6 acre park parcel that would be
sufficient, in his opinion. Other Commission Members opined that if the City had the opportunity to acquire
property through tax forfeiture, it should take advantage of that opportunity.
After further discussion, David Szott moved, Tim Callister seconded with all members voting in favor to
acquire the subject property through tax forfeiture to be used as park land.
Director Vraa asked for clarification of potential development of the. subject parcel; would be
developed with the existing 6 acre park. parcel? Member Rudolph suggested that the property be used by the
residents for picnics and open play area but that it not be developed to any great degree until the 6 acre parcel is
developed. Member Kubik expressed his concern for the limited access to this site from a private road and the
cost implications of that for the City. Randall Ahem opined that access from the south should be the priority
access to the park and that the subject parcel be used as open space only.
After further discussion, Michael Vincent moved, Daryle Petersen seconded with all members voting in
favor to reconsider the motion.
Michael Vincent moved, Daryle Petersen seconded, with all member voting in favor to acquire the
property through tax forfeiture for parkland and that no development will occur until plans are considered for the
existing 6 acre park parcel the City currently owns.
Items highlighted by Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Lilly included an update on the Blackhawk
Pavilion construction, completion of the well drilling, anticipated completion of the septic system and
completion of the building by July 15. Landscape plans for the Municipal Center and moving forward with
installation planned to coordinate with Arbor Day of May 11. The irrigation system is also being planned for
installation at the Municipal Center.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 15, 1996 Meeting
Page 7
WETLAND BUFFER ORDINANCE UPDATE
Member Thompson explained that when this issue was discussed by the APRNRC previously, they
were in unanimous support of a 50 foot buffer strip. When this issue appeared before the Advisory Planning
Commission, however, they were not as supportive. There were members of the APC who didn't see a need for
a buffer at all and those that did wanted to see a smaller one. The bottom line, Thompson added, is that there
was significant lack of support for this issue. He suggested that the APRNRC look at developing a consensus
with the APC in working toward a compromise for a wetland buffer. It is hoped that a joint workshop can be
scheduled to work on this issue. Thompson opined that given the priorities of the Commission for the upcoming
bond referendum, this may need to be placed on the back bumer.
Coordinator Brasch noted that some time needs to be dedicated to educating the APC with background
literature and information relative to how the APRNRC came to their conclusion. Staff is looking forwarcl to
joint meetings with the APC so that this issue can appear at public hearings and on to the City Council for
resolution
Member Thompson asked Commission Members if they were comfortable postponing this issue for a
period of time. Member Markel) suggested delaying it until early fall and the other Commission Members
concurred.
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DAKOTA COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Director Vraa reminded the Commission that an invitation has been issued by Dakota County to
participate in an annual information sharing meeting. The meeting is designed to promote communication and
understanding of the complimentary roles as park agencies within Dakota County. Commission Members were
reminded to respond by May 13 directly to Dakota County Parks.
WINTER RECREATION PROGRAMS UPDATE
Supervisor Nowariak reviewed several winter program offerings she is in charge of supervising
including preschool, trips and special events and adult volleyball. She noted there were approximately 200
preschoolers participating in the winter programs which focus on social interaction. Adult volleyball continues
to grow with 87 teams participating in the winter session. Member Kohlnhofer commented on the positive
experience his family has had with the Friday Friends preschool program.
Supervisor 0yanagi provided an overview of the winter programs he supervises including the winter
rink sites. )on noted that this was the best season for ice and that the rinks and tubing hill were open for the full
season. Outdoor skating lessons were very successful as well. Other program highlights included nature
programs, dog sled rides, winter hayride and the preparation for summer softball. Oyanagi commented that this
is his busiest time of the year because while all of the winter programs are up and running preparations are
beginning for the summer softball season.
Member Kubik asked if any of the winter sites need to be decreased or increased. Oyanagi commented
that Bridle Ridge and Goat Hill are very crowded and some thought should be given to how that can be
relieved. Perhaps North Park can provide some of that relief.
Member Markel) thanked Supervisors Nowariak and Oyanagi for their update and for the continued
excellence in programming.
BOND REFERENDUM UPDATE
Director Vraa noted that the Task Force has met twice and will be touring potential acquisition sites on
Thursday. Member Szott added that the Task Force is moving in a good direction. After the group is done
meeting in May, marketing of the referendum will need to be addresses. It is expected that help from all
Commission Member will be needed during this process.
Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
Minutes of April 15, 1996 Meeting
Page 7
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Member Vincent commented on the letter from John Bunker, President of Eagan Soccer, relative to the
projected growth of the program. Vincent opined that this was helpful information as the Task Force is
reviewing what should be included in the Bond Referendum.
Director Vraa also commented on the letter from Mary Pontrelli of EHA expressing their interest in
providing financial and sweat equity support for a second sheet of ice.
With no further business to conduct, George Kubik moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members
voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m.
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Secretary Date