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09/16/1996 - Advisory Parks & Recreation CommissionMINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA SEPTEMBER 16, 1996 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on September 16, 1996 with the following Commission Members present: Lee Markell, Daryle Petersen, John Rudolph, David Szott, Stephen Thompson, Randall Ahern and Michael Vincent. Members Tim Callister, George Kubik and Guy Kohlnhofer were not present. Staff present included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation, Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; Paul Olson, Parks Superintendent; C.1. Lilly, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner; Rich Brasch, Water Resources Coordinator; Gregg Hove, Forestry Supervisor; Mike Ridley, Senior Planner; Recreation Supervisors Paula Nowariak, jon Oyanagi and Loudi Rivamonte and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary. AGENDA Natural Scenic Grant was added as Item 2 under New Business and Task Force/Central Park was added under New Business. Michael Vincent moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the agenda as amended. MINUTES OF AUGUST 19, 1996 Michael Vincent moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes of August 19, 1996 as presented. DEPA1ttMENT HAPPENINGS Items highlighted in the Department Happenings included the beginning of EAA's fall programs, grant application for the "Mighty Ducks", family skating events at the Civic Arena, closure of the wading pool, observation deck at Blackhawk completed by Twin Cities Tree Trust, paving of a hockey rink at Goat Hill, color coating of tennis courts, top dressing and seeding of Lexington Diffley fields and new method of marking storm drains to increase public awareness. CONSENT AGENDA Michael Vincent moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to Norwest Third Addition -ESA Development, Inc.: 1. This development shall be responsible for a cash parks dedication. 2. This development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication. 3. Staff is recommending the applicant explore the possibility of shifting the service entrance road far enough to the west to reduce significant tree removal to limits below those allowed by the Tree Preservation Ordinance. If the recommended revision dealing with the location of the service entrance road can not be incorporated, the following conditions will apply to the development: a. The developer shall be required to submit a cash mitigation for significant tree\woodland removal in excess of allowable limits in the amount of $12,000.00. b. The developer shall be required to provide 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 significant trees/woodlands to be preserved on adjacent property. c. The developer shall be required to 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. 4. This development shall be responsible for a cash water quality dedication. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of September 16, 1996 Meeting Page 2 DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS ROLLING OAKS - PULTE HOMES Following a brief introduction by Director Vraa, Senior Planner Ridley noted that this item was addressed at the August Advisory Commission meeting at which time it was deferred to the Natural Resources and Land Acquisition Subcommittees. The primary change since the Commission's last review was the exclusion of a five acre parcel in the northeast portion of the site where a home is currently located. The developer has not been able to acquire the property at this time, thus the development has been reduced to 116 acres. This results in a decrease of units from 523 to 502, Ridley added. Director Vraa provided the Commission with the background and history of this site noting that the existing Deerwood Elementary School was once the identified location for a park in Service District #21 which is bounded by 35E, Pilot Knob Road and Diffley Road. Having the district split by Deerwood and now Johnny Cake Ridge Road, creates limited population thresholds in each of these smaller areas. When Deerwood Elementary was sited, the City was stilt hopeful of developing a neighborhood park adjacent to the school as has been done with other school/park sites. When the middle school was sited next to the elementary school, interest in a neighborhood park all but disappeared since most recreation amenities were being provided by the two schools. The uncertainty of a park in this service district continued even to the extent that the most recent Park System Plan update mentions the possibility of only a neighborhood commons or neighborhood park of 4-6 acres in size. Director Vraa added that a development at this site had been reviewed several months earlier at which time the Commission recommended a cash parks dedication and cash trails dedication. The developer presented two proposed parcels for parkland consideration. A 4.32 acre site located in the east central region of the site. Although scenic, the majority of the proposed dedication site contains steep topography and wetlands which would be difficult to provide trail access. The second is a 11.91 acre parcel that abuts 35E to the west and the water tower just south of Deerwood. This heavily wooded parcel also has steep slopes up to 33%. Two wetlands are located on the west and north sides of this proposed park dedication. Vraa continued that the subcommittees looked at all the options proposed by the developer for proposed park dedication and felt that even if a portion of the land could be used for park purposes, there was concern about placing a park in an area where there are several existing parks with amenities that could support this neighborhood. Director Vraa concluded stating that the Commission could look at a cash parks and trails dedication, look at a land dedication and consider what options should be considered for that site, or suggest another parcel of land within the site for parks dedication. Coordinator Brasch noted that the construction of a basin in the north central location of the site would be impacted based on parks dedication. The north-central and eastern portion of the site will drain to the north and staff has directed the developer to construct a detention basin to treat this runoff prior to discharge off the site. In the most recent set of plans, the detention basin is too small to provide the high level of treatment required to meet non-degradation standards for Blackhawk Lake. Whether the pond can be expanded will depend on whether the proposed park area to the west of this pond remains a part of the development. If the area is not needed for a developed par facility, staff recommends that this detention basin be increased in size and volume to improve the pollutant removal efficiency of the pond. Rather than require the significant increase in on-site ponding that would be necessary to fully meet the non-degradation standard for Blackhawk Lake, staff recommends a supplemental cash dedication to meet mitigation requirements. The cash dedication would be higher if pond BP-3 cannot be expanded over that proposed. This dedication would be used to off-set costs of in-lake treatment measures to protect water quality in Blackhawk Lake. Forestry Supervisory Hove noted the tree preservation changes with the revised plan resulted from the realignment of )ohnny Cake Ridge Road, alteration of grading limits, introduction of proposed parkland within the development, shifting of cul-de-sac locations, alteration of building pad locations and recount of existing trees on site (trees within )ohnny Cake Ridge Road right-of-way not included, and the exclusion of storm damage trees). With the developers proposed significant tree removal for the entire site not exceeding the allowable limit, there is not tree mitigation, Hove concluded. Member Szott asked about the 5 acre exception to this plat. Director Vraa stated that the property is privately owned and has been withdrawn from the original proposed site, however it was left in the plan to show what the potential development could be on the exception were it to be developed later. Member Rudolph asked how many units were expected to be built with and without the exception parcel. Senior Planner Ridley responded there were 502 proposed without the exception and 523 with the exception. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of September 16, 1996 Meeting Page 3 Member Petersen asked what kind of slopes were on the 4.32 acre proposed park. Director Vraa explained that it was very steep on the north end of the site and also on the south side which would make it difficult to place a trail around the wetland. Consideration may be given to bringing a trail from the south, however. Member Petersen clarified that a trail would be one of the only options on the 4.32 acre parcel. Gary Grant, Pulte Homes addressed the Commission stating they were looking forward to providing a good project in this area. He noted that the density is lower than what this property is zoned for and they have worked very hard to adjust the plan to preserve trees on site. It is anticipated that this neighborhood will have approximately 140 children living in it and Pulte feels that is a large enough number to warrant recreational amenities. Mr. Grant shared the breakdown of the multiple family "pods" noting that the architecture, color and finishes will be different in each of the 17 "pods". The single family homes will be custom graded lots and Pulte is committed to saving as many trees as possible. In closing, Mr. Grant reiterated that there are enough occupants in this neighborhood to substantiate a park. Dennis Griswold, Landscape Architect representing Pulte Homes identified several key points from Pulte's perspective. This is one of the largest sites left in the City and they feel it's important to provide varied products on this parcel to create a diverse community. With that they want to provide parkland for the residents of this community which would accent the existing active space at the school. Pulte feels that facilities for younger children are needed along with walking paths and a connection to the school. They feel that these amenities will also benefit the residents to the east of the elementary and middle school as well. Mr. Griswold also noted that the playground at the school may not be available during the school year day and felt that the City may be relying too heavily on school facilities used primarily for organized play. The developer is hopeful that recreational amenities can be incorporated within this neighborhood because it will be bounded by busy roads. Member Markel) asked about the accessibility from the street on the southeast portion of the site. Mr. Griswold stated they would look at the high water level to see what options may be possible. Member Vincent opined that the proposed land to be dedicated for park on this site is not closer for many of the residents than the school facilities. Mr. Griswold responded that although location may be an issue, having facilities within the development that would accent existing facilities would be of great benefit to the users. Member Vincent opined that open space would be more appealing and would prefer seeing passive use in this area since active space already exists close by. Vincent added that the question is whether there is a need for a park at this site since many other parks currently exist. Mr. Grant responded that many children cannot go to a park without their parents and they want to provide amenities that are within walking distance. Member Vincent stated that he was not motivated to accept land for park dedication and preferred a cash dedication to be used in an area where the need may be greater. Member Petersen noted that with the larger tract of proposed park land it could be left open to allow for natural trails at a later date. The small parcel, however, did not appear to have much usable value for parkland. Member Rudolph noted that there are several parks nearby with existing amenities. He expressed his concern for developing facilities on the larger parcel as proposed by Pulte because of the future need for parking which may change the "cozy playground" amenity the developer is hoping to create. Rudolph concluded that a park dedication on this site was not desirable and preferred a cash dedication. Mr. Grant asked if the Commission would consider a partial park dedication for 4 acres for a potential skating area/parking lot off Johnny Cake Ridge Road. This could be a fairly flat parcel that would allow for some park amenities. Member Vincent felt that the slopes may prohibit a parking lot in the area being designated and opined that this would be shoehorning the site. Vincent added that the developer may want to consider providing a play area on the site if they feel there is a need. Member Szott opined that the four acre site was essentially a private park for the lots that surround it. With respect to the larger parcel proposed for winter amenities, Szott stated that although the intention is good, it may be cost prohibitive to provide some of the amenities proposed given there are many of the same facilities within the'/s mile radius of this site. Director Vraa responded to the question relative to accepting a portion of the larger parcel for parks dedication by stating that although staff has not assessed that option, a recreational amenity such as frisbee golf may be something to consider. This would provide an opportunity for a facility not found in any of the other parks. The question was raised by some Commission Members as to the amount of interest this might generate within the community and could result in an adverse situation for the neighborhood. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of September 16, 1996 Meeting Page 4 Member Petersen and Markell suggested looking at the option of different park dedication layouts or consider other options to provide preservation of some of the land. Member Thompson opined that the City needs to get the most bang for their buck and supported a cash dedication. Mr. Grant noted that if the Advisory Commission was sincerely interested in accepting a parkland dedication in lieu of cash, they would look at some type of reconfiguration, however, if that is not the direction the Commission is headed, they would not expend any more time or resources to re-design the site. Member Markell asked what would happen to the land should it not be used for parks dedication. Mr. Grant responded that units may be placed on the area that is relatively flat, however, the steeper slopes would most likely be left as is. After further discussion. Michael Vincent moved and David Szott seconded a motion to make the following recommendations to the City Council relative to Rolling Hills - Pulte Homes: 1. This development shall be responsible for a cash parks and trails dedication. 2. The Tree Preservation Plan be approved as proposed with the following conditions: a. Tree Protective Measures (i.e. 4 foot polyethylene laminate safetyry netting) shall be installed at the Drip Line or at the perimeter of the Critical Root Zone, whicf~ever is greater, of significant trees/woodlands to be preserved. b. The developer shall contact the City Forestry Division at least five day prior to the issuance of the grading permit to ensure compliance with the approved Tree Preservation Plan. c. The developer shall work with City Staff in an attempt to preserve additional significant trees located in areas within construction limits. Field reviews are recommended after roads are located and staked and prior to any grading or tree removal to identify any significant trees which could be preserved. 3. The developer shah raise and redirect the storm water drainage system (which is proposed to flow from the low area in the north vicinity of the single family development area to drainage Pond BP-3) to a new location running between single family lots 5 and 6 and between clubhouse lots 25 and 26. 4. Acknowledge that a performance guarantee will be required for this development. The amount of the performance guarantee will be calculated by City Staff following installation of the tree protection fence. (The amount of the performance guarantee will be calculated utilizing the total diameter inches of significant trees intended to be preserved within fifteen feet of the grading limits). The performance guarantee will be collected as part of the Development Contract at the time of final plat approval. 5. An Individual Lot Tree Preservation Plan will be required for all single family residential lots with significant trees or woodlands remaining on them at the time of building permit application. 6. On-site ponding shall be the principle means of meeting water quality mitigation requirements. 7. Bond BP-3 shall be enlarged and constructed as a two-cell system, if possible. Those voting Aye: Randall Ahern, Michael Vincent, David Szott, Steve Thompson, and John Rudolph. Those voting Nay: Lee Markell and Daryle Petersen. The motion passed. OLD BUSINESS MOSQUITO CONTROL UPDATE Dave French and Jim Stark of the Metropolitan Mosquito Control Agency were present to provide the Commission with a yearly update of their program in Eagan. Dave French began by stating that there was a 26% budget decrease from 1995 which resulted in the loss of 1.5 regular full time staff members. Also as a result of the budget cuts, the MMCA is moving away from methoprene briquets and using pellets and liquid. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of September 16, 1996 Meeting Page 5 Overall, 1996 was a very dry year with only 3 broods of mosquitos identified. One on May 24, one on June 7 and one on June 17. Adult mosquito control was done based on the evening collections that were done. Measures were taken at Sky Hill Park, and during the Yankee Arts and Crafts Festival. The MMCA responded to 15 calls from Eagan which was an increase from 1995 even though it was a dry year Jim Stark highlighted several ways the MMCA has been attempting to improve their communication in Eagan in 1996. Those included several articles in the local papers, television and radio coverage, information panels at the library, informational brochures placed in several public buildings, 4000 visitors to the Dakota County Fair booth and awareness programs directed to 6th graders through the schools. Goals for 1997 include being more aggressive in the schools, soliciting adult service groups and associations for presentations and providing more local and regional media coverage. Commission Chair Markel) thanked Mr. French and Mr. Stark for the update and expressed the Commission's interest in the annual update by the MMCA. NATURAL AND SCENIC GRANT Superintendent Peterson noted that at the August 19 Commission meeting, staff reported a grant award in the amount of $26,900 of a $92,000 request toward acquisition of 7.5 acres adjacent to Patrick Eagan Park. Brief discussion occurred followed by a motion by Michael Vincent, seconded by Stephen Thompson, with all members voting in favor to rework the grant with DNR staff, focusing on acquisition of the 4.4 acre piece and attempt to acquire an option on the 3.1 acre piece . The Commission reiterated their commitment to open space preservation. NEW 'Bl)~1NESS TASK FORCE/CENTRAL PARK Director Vraa explained that the City Council is looking for a member of the APRNRC to be appointed to a task force which will look at options for a central park on the Scenic Enterprises site. The task force will consist of members of the APRNRC, Advisory Planning Commission and 2 staff members. Member Vincent volunteered to serve on the task force. PARKS QEVELOPMENT UPDATE Landscape Architect.lilly noted that the landscaping at the Municipal Center and Blackhawk Park is 95% completed. Blackhawk Park is open for reservations and the observation deck is completed. tt+VATER RESQIJR~S~UPDATE Coordinator Brasch noted that the Commission had taken a few minutes to review the site proposed for a landing at Blackhawk Lake. He requested that the Commission make a recommendation to the City Council to re-program funds to provide for this landing. After a brief discussion, Stephen Thompson moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend to the City Council a re-programming of $14,000 of the $73,000 in available funds previously allocated for the JP-5 bypass and the Hay Lake landing in the FY 1996 CIP for the storm water management plan. UTHER ftUS1NESS AND=111;EPDRTS SUMMER PROGRAM REPORTS Recreation Supervisor Oyanagi provided the Commission with an overview of the many programs he supervises during the summer months including the large adult softball program. Recreation Supervisor Loudi Rivamonte followed with her presentation of the programs and activities that she has been supervising at Wescott Commons over the summer as well. The final report was presented by Recreation Supervisor Paula Nowariak relative the thousands of participants in the summer activities that are planned for Eagan youth. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of September 16, 1996 Meeting Page 6 ROUND TABLE Member Markel) thanked those that worked on the recent Bond Referendum. Although it was not successful, it is hoped that the Commission continues its support of open space preservation. i~1D)OURNMENT With no further business to conduct, Michael Vincent moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 10:10 p.m. ~y-- 1~ 3 ~ °S ~t ~, Secre ar Date