05/19/2003 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
Approved July 14.2003
ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 19,2003
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on May 19,2003
with the following Commission Members present: Joseph Bari, Phil Belfiori, Margo Danner, Terry Davis, N. Mark
Filipi, Elizabeth Perry, Dorothy Peterson, Richard Pletcher, and Melvin Williams. Member Ken West was not
present. Staff present included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Jeff Asfahl, Superintendent of
Recreation; Paul Olson, Parks Superintendent; Gregg Hove, Forestry Supervisor; Eric Macbeth, Water Resources
Coordinator; Jim Storland, Water Resources Technician; Aaron Hunter, Cascade Bay Facility Manager; Beth
Wielde, Research and Special Projects; CJ Lilly, Parks Planner and Cherryl Mesko, Recording Secretary.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Director Vraa noted that the recognition ofHolz Farm volunteers was being deferred to the June 16
meeting. N Mark Filipi moved, Margo Danner seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the agenda as
amended.
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION
LAKE MONITORING VOLUNTEERS
Water Resources Coordinator Macbeth recognized several individuals who have volunteered their time to
monitor lakes for either 5 or 10 years. Those being recognized for 10 years of volunteer ism included Joe Schaefer,
Royce Tyler, Les & Sharon Beckman, Robby Cashman, Raleigh Foss and Tom Hedlund. Volunteering for 5 years
were Sue Nippert and Joann Alt. Each was presented with a recognition certificate and were congratulated by the
Advisory Commission for their efforts.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MARCH 17 AND APRIL 14, 2003
Dorothy Peterson moved, Margo Danner seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes
of the March 17, 2003 meeting as presented.
Elizabeth Perry moved, N Mark Filipi seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes of
the April 14, 2003 meeting as presented.
VISITORS TO BE HEARD
Robby Cashman addressed the Commission and asked if they had considered looking at areas beyond the
south of Patrick Eagan Park for incorporation into the Eagan Green Space. He cited the area north of the park and
suggested that consideration be given to access around the lake within that property. He also identified an area east
of Trapp Farm Park to Lakeside Park that might be incorporated much like the alignment of the Highline Trail.
Member Davis responded that the Advisory Commission was most interested in looking at several areas for
incorporation into the Eagan Green Space and had expressed a strong interest in the property to the north of Patrick
Eagan Park along with several other areas. He noted that they had not identified the area between Trapp Farm Park
and Lakeside Park but that the Commission would certainly look at that when they review this issue again. Member
Davis thanked Mr. Cashman for his interest in preserving these parcels.
SUPERINTENDENT'S UPDATE AND DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS
Superintendents Olson and Asfahl provided a brief overview of issues and activities from the Parks and
Recreation divisions.
Advisory Park Commission
Minutes of Regular Meeting of May 19,2003
Page 2
CASCADE BAY UPDATE - AARON HUNTER
Cascade Bay Facility Manager Hunter addressed the Commission and provided an update of the pre-season
preparation for Cascade Bay. He noted that a very high majority of lifeguards have returned from last year, which
continues the pattern of maintaining a very highly experienced staff. Manager Hunter reviewed several new classes
and programs that would be offered during the summer that are already getting a lot of interest. He also noted
several special events that will surround the 5th anniversary celebration of Cascade Bay.
CONSENT AGENDA
Dorothy Peterson moved, Elizabeth Perry seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following
recommendations to the City Council regarding the Northwood Pond development.
1. This proposal would be subject to a cash parks dedication.
2. This proposal would be subject to a cash trails dedication.
3. The applicant shall be required to submit a revised tree mitigation plan showing the fulfillment tree
preservation mitigation requirements through the installation of sixty-eight (68) Category A trees, or
one-hundred thirty-six (136) Category B trees, or two-hundred seventy-two (272) Category C trees, or
an equivalent combination of any Category.
4. A revised Tree Mitigation/Landscape Plan shall be submitted addressing the following
recommendations:
. Mitigation/Landscape conifer trees should be relocated away from roads and/or buildings
to allow for needed crown width for mature tree growth.
. Mitigation deciduous trees (especially willow trees) should be spaced at least 25-30' apart.
Willow trees should only be used near wetland/pond areas and not be placed adjacent to
roadways
5. Tree Protective measures (i.e. orange colored silt fence or 4 foot polyethylene laminate safety netting)
shall be required 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-site.
6. The applicant shall contact the City Forestry Division and set up a pre-construction site inspection at
least five days prior to the issuance of the grading permit to ensure compliance with the approved Tree
Preservation Plan and placement of the Tree Protection Fencing.
7. A storm water treatment pond shall be constructed with a minimum treatment volume of 0.33 acre-feet
covering a minimum surface area of 0.19 acres. The pond should have a maximum depth of 6 feet and
a 10: 1 aquatic bench from the normal water level.
8. A dedication of cash in lieu of ponding shall be required for storm water that is proposed to drain off
1.95 acres of the site.
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS
MARCELLA WOODS - MARCELLA WOODS PARTNERSHIP
Following a brief introduction by Director Vraa, Superintendent Olson provided a brief background of the
Marcella Woods proposal noting that the applicant is proposing to subdivide the subject property into 15 single
family lots and one outlot. Olson then reviewed the parks and trails dedication and indicated that the establishment
of Outlot A was done by request of staff to allow the installation of a connector trail from Ohmann Park to Lebanon
Hills RegionalPark. The location of the outlot is in the northeast comer of the development at the terminus point of
Lebanon Hills, Parkview Golf Course and Ohmann Park. Forestry Supervisor Hove and Water Resources
Coordinator Macbeth continued with their evaluation of the forestry and water resources issues that pertain to this
development.
Advisory Park Commission
Minutes of Regular Meeting of May 19,2003
Page 3
Forestry Supervisor Hove responded to questions regarding the location of buildings on the site and the
location of trees. Member Danner asked when the trail connection through Outlot A might be made to Lebanon
Hills Regional Park. Superintendent Olson responded that there is no specific time line identified, however the City
of Eagan will be working with Dakota County to coordinate this link when the county is ready to proceed. Member
Filipi asked if staff would investigate the potential of joint use of the utility easement between Lots 6 and 7 to allow
a connection from this development to Ohmann Park.
After further brief discussion, N Mark Filipi moved, Dorothy Peterson seconded with all members voting in
favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council regarding the Marcella Woods development:
1. The development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication.
2. The development shall be responsible for a cash parks dedication, minus credit given for the dedication
of "outlot A".
3. This development should meet the City's water quality requirements through a combination of on-site
ponding and cash dedication.
4. The stormwater pond should be constructed to treat 2.7 acres of the site area. It should have a
minimum wet-pond volume of 0.25 acre-feet and should have a minimum area of 0.16 acres. The
stormwater treatment pond should be constructed according to NURP standards with a maximum
depth of 6 feet and a 10: 1 aquatic bench.
5. In lieu ofponding to treat stormwater from 3.8 acres of the site, a cash dedication should be required.
6. The applicant shall be required to submit a revised tree mitigation plan showing the fulfillment tree
preservation mitigation requirements through the installation of twenty-nine (29) Category A trees, or
fifty-eight (58) Category B trees, or one hundred sixteen (116) Category C trees, or an equivalent
combination of any Category..
7. The revised tree mitigation plan shall require that mitigation trees are not placed within Outlot A, or
within 15 feet of utility easement areas.
8. Tree Protective measures (i.e. orange colored silt fence or 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 on-site.
9. The applicant shall be required to contact the City Forestry Division and set up a pre-construction site
inspection at least five days prior to the issuance of the grading permit to ensure compliance with the
approved Tree Preservation Plan and placement of the Tree Protection Fencing.
10. Investigate joint use of the utility easement between Lots 6 and 7 to provide access from this
development to the north to Ohmann Park.
OLD BUSINESS
BUR OAK TRAIL PUBLIC INPUT
Director Vraa introduced this item and distributed a petition that was received earlier in the day expressing
support for the improvement plan for Bur Oaks Park projected for 2004. Their support included the paved trail on
the south side of the park for multiple use of the park and for the safety of residents walking on Chapel Lane. A
letter was also received from the Crane Creek Association in support of the proposed improvement plan.
Advisory Park Commission
Minutes of Regular Meeting of May 19, 2003
Page 4
Superintendent Olson recapped the previous meetings held to discuss this issue including a neighborhood
meeting on March 13,2003, further discussion at an April 3 and 14 Advisory Parks Commission workshop. Olson
stated that staff is looking for Commission direction regarding the proposal. It was noted that the initial cost
estimates for the improvements identified were approximately $112,000 but that the Advisory Commission would
review these options during their annual CIP review.
Member Peterson asked if the issue of security lighting had been addressed. Superintendent Olson noted
that it would be more beneficial to review the issue of lighting once the overall plan for the site has been determined.
Member Perry asked if alternative trail surfaces had been looked at. Superintendent Olson stated that options
similar to Blackhawk had been considered but the long term maintenance expense is a concern.
Member Perry asked if the trail bed could be graded and be left with turf only. Superintendent Olson noted
that at the neighborhood meeting those present preferred a bituminous or hard surface. He added that the petition
specifically asked for a hard surface.
Several Commission Members expressed concern for the estimated cost of the project and were reluctant to
tentatively commit to the expense. Superintendent Olson suggested that the Commission at least place this on the
2004 CIP so that it has a place holder and then review options further once costs are more clearly defined.
Commission Members continued to express their concern that this might not be a realistic option for the 2004 CIP
and didn't want to create that expectation at this time. Several Commission Members opined that the project might
be looked at in phases but still wanted to get more specific information about the costs.
Director Vraa asked if the neighbors who had generated the petition would be invited back for their input
pre or post CIP review. Member Davis opined that the Commission should better understand the overall CIP
priorities first and then talk to the neighborhood. N Mark Filipi agreed that the prioritization should happen first,
followed by resident input and continued discussion by the Advisory Commission before being forwarded to the
City Council for CIP fund allocation.
Following further brief discussion, Joseph Bari moved, Dorothy Peterson seconded with all members
voting in favor to hold this issue in abeyance until the 2004 CIP review at which time the public will again be
invited to provide input. During the CIP process, funding and potential for phasing will be discussed.
ALTERNATIVE FUNDING UPDA TE/DISCUSSION
In response to Council's direction to elaborate on the Alternative Funding study, the APrC was asked to
provide direction to staff as to how to revise the report.
The Advisory Commission requested staff produce an estimate of how much money may be needed per
annum for the next 20 years, based on prior CIP spending. The Commission suggested that at their June 16 meeting
they set a workshop to discuss the matter, most likely in mid July.
NEW BUSINESS
MAINTENANCE FACILITY EXPANSION - PLAN ACCEPTANCE
Director of Public Works Tom Colbert presented the plans for an expansion of the Maintenance facility,
seeking input from the APrC regarding tree mitigation and wetland issues.
Dorothy Peterson thanked staff for their creativity in getting this done. Peterson moved, Terry Davis
seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend approval to the City Council to authorize the use of
existing credits from Eagan's Wetland Bank to replace the wetland impacts for City project 868 (Water Treatment
Plant Expansion) and require Blue Cross Blue Shield to perform all required Tree Mitigation and Wetland
Replacement to City standards as a defined plan element of developing the overall Blue Cross Blue Shield Planned
unit Development (PUD).
Advisory Park Commission
Minutes of Regular Meeting of May 19,2003
Page 5
DONOR NAMING POLICY DEVELOPMENT
Staff presented results of a survey done throughout Minnesota regarding donor naming policies in
municipalities. Responses indicate that a stand-alone policy is not commonplace. The APrC was asked to open
discussion on the matter to guide future discussion about when it is appropriate to recognize donors in an amenity
name vs. general recognition.
The Advisory Commission decided to defer this issue to a subcommittee in September. Members
volunteering to serve on this committee included Margo Danner, Joseph Bari, Dorothy Peterson, Phil Belfiori and
Richard Pletcher. Member Pletcher was appointed to lead this committee.
WATER RESOURCES UPDATE
Water Resources Coordinator Macbeth reviewed several items of interest pertaining to the Water Resources
division.
OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS
CAPONI ART PARK STUDY
Advisory Parks Commission members noted sub-committees are still meeting to continue discussion of this
issue. Three subsequent workshop dates were set, May 21 at 5:30 p.m., May 27 at 5:30 p.m., and June 9 at 7:00 p.m.
SUBCOMMITTEE UPDATES
Member Peterson provided a brief update of the meeting with the Holz Farm Park master plan consultants,
neighbors and Friends of the Farm. She noted that they had not heard from Miller Dunwoody yet and will be getting
the cost estimates soon. She did indicate that access to the site continues to be an issue.
COMMUNITY CENTER UPDATE
Director Vraa stated that the seniors had a very successful dinner dance; their inaugural event at the
community center. He added that there are still several punch list items that remain and that work on the outside of
the building is beginning to pick up momentum.
Member Belfiori commented that he had recently visited the Blast with his children and they loved it.
Member Perry added that the caterers have done an outstanding job with the soft opening events that she's attended.
COMMUNICATIONS
Member Davis commented on the letter received from a student regarding a bike park and a letter from
CAFE thanking the Advisory Commission for adopting the smoke free environment for youth activities.
ROUND TABLE
Member Pletcher commented on the Eagan Art House open house and the enthusiastic crowd in attendance.
Member Danner asked about security lights for the Art House. Member Davis responded that they were identified
in the CIP and that the City Council is looking at lighting options. Superintendent Asfahl added that there have been
some improvements to security and signage lighting on the site.
Member Peterson asked how the City's hiring freeze was affecting the department. Director Vraa stated
that there is only one parks maintenance staff person who has resigned that won't be replaced at this time. The
freeze does not affect seasonal staff, Vraa added.
Advisory Park Commission
Minutes of Regular Meeting of May 19, 2003
Page 6
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to conduct Dorothy Peterson moved, N Mark Filipi seconded with all members
voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
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Secretary
Date