09/13/2001 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
Amended Nov. 9, 2001
Approved October 15, 2001
ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 13, 2001
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks Commission was called to order at 7 :05 p.m. on September 13,
2001 with the following Commission Members present: Joseph Bari, Margo Danner, Terry Davis, N. Mark Filipi,
George Kubik, Dorothy Peterson, Chair John Rudolph, Melvin Williams, and David Wright, and Richard Pletcher.
Staff present included Superintendent of Parks Paul Olson filling in for Director of Parks and Recreation Ken Vraa,
Superintendent of Recreation Jeff Asfahl, Program and Events Supervisor Cathy Bolduc, Youth and Family
Programs Supervisor Paula Nowariak, Water Resources Coordinator Eric Macbeth, City Forester Gregg Hove,
Parks Planner C.J. Lilly, and Beth Wielde, Research and Special Projects.
SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Chair John Rudolph took a moment to send out the Commission's thoughts and prayers to those affected
by terrorist aggression at New York's World Trade Center and the Pentagon, their friends and family.
Chair Rudolph also extended best wishes for a quick recovery to Director Ken Vraa, recently released from
the hospital after complications from an appendectomy.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Member Kubik moved to approve the agenda as presented. Member Davis seconded, with all present
members voting for approval.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF August 20, 2001
Member Peterson noted that under the Winter Program Options item, it should be noted that an amendment
to the motion was made to designate Pilot Knob Park a Class C site. Member Danner noted it was Nicols Ridge, not
Cedar Villas that she referred to under Consent. She also noted that under the Skate Park item, it was not noted
under "Approval of Minutes" what the skate park budget was ($26, 695). She also noted under Round Table that
she discussed the Central Park master planner include a location for playground equipment in the park plan, while
plans are being refined. August 20 minutes were amended on September 14,2001.
VISITORS TO BE HEARD
There were no visitors who wished to address the Commission under this agenda item.
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS/ SUPERINTENDENT'S UPDATE
Superintendent of Recreation Jeff Asfahl reviewed the Department Happenings for the Recreation
Division. This included:
. Fall preschool programs had their open house on September 6, and are now underway. There are 135
participants at programs. Programs are sited at Goat Hill Park, Bridle Ridge Park, and Sky Hill Park.
. Preschool Program Coordinator Holly Champlin has recently been upgraded to a full time position in the
department. Asfahl acknowledged Paula Nowariak's work in the development of the preschool program.
Advisory Parks Commission Regular Meeting
September 13,2001
Page 2
. Fall sports are underway. Football started on September 51\ parent child golf has 29 participants, fall golf
lessons have 17 registered, men's basketball is underway, and fall volleyball has 54 teams listed.
. Seniors have enjoyed field trips including one on the Mississippi River. He discussed some of the
upcoming programs available to seniors.
. Applications are being received for winter warming house positions.
. Treat and Terror trails are scheduled for October 28. Asfahl provided a number for citizens to call if they
would like to volunteer.
. Lone Oak Days will be held on September 21 and 22.
. Youth activities include three fall baseball teams, youth soccer, adult rugby, and girls fast-pitch.
. The Winter Brochure will be mailed to the public during the last week in October.
Chair Rudolph inquired of it would be possible to get an update on the concessions trailer now that its first
season of operation has been completed. Asfahl said that this may be coming in Sports Program Supervisor Sonya
Rippe's report in October, but this would be feasible.
Member Danner asked about past attendance during the Halloween activities. Asfahl could not recall exact
attendance figures off the top of his head, but knew that 100 volunteers were needed to operate the program, which
speaks to its success.
Superintendent of Parks Paul Olson described the activities of the Parks division, including:
. The Skate Park is up and operating. Staff has noticed a great deal of use. The local cable TV channel will
be doing a piece on it.
. Park restrooms are typically closed for the season after Labor Day. They will be open for scheduled
events.
. Playground construction on Peri dot Path is being started. The Cinnamon Ridge playground is wrapping
up.
. Contracts have been let for stormwater mitigation projects. There will be a pre-construction meeting next
week.
. The City will receive an award from the Tree Trust for its contributions to the program. APrC chair John
Rudolph will be accepting it on the City's behalf.
Member Joseph Bari inquired about an update on the restroom blowups that occurred earlier this summer.
Olson said there has been no more trouble.
CONSENT AGENDA
VERDANT HILLS
Superintendent Olson noted that this item has been before the Commission before. Changes to the
proposed plat do not affect the forestry, water quality/wetlands or parks and trails dedication decision made by the
Commission at a previous meeting. This item was stricken from the agenda.
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September 13, 2001
Page 3
DEVELOPMENT AGENDA
DUKE REALITY CORPORATION
Superintendent of Parks Paul Olson provided background into the Duke Reality project, a new building of
offices, labs, and classrooms for the Medical Institute of Minnesota. He described the zoning of the property
(Research and Development), and noted that the proposed use is consistent with the zoning of the property. The site
plan meets all setback, green space, and building coverage requirements.
Water Resources Coordinator Eric Macbeth noted that approximately '12 of the site would be impervious
cover. He described the plan and the area of storm water ponding. He noted than a proposed area of runoff would
subject the plan to a $9,024 cash dedication. He noted .35 acres of natural wetland, classified as a Type 3. The
developer proposes to fill the 15,238 square foot wetland. This would be replaced on the west side of the property,
to the east of the existing wetland. This will need to be monitored for 5 years and reports must be filed with the
City. It will also be subject to the public comment period.
The developer proposed to mitigate for 15,238 square feet of wetland by the replacement of 20,037 square feet of
NWC, and creation of 15,100 square feet of PVc. This would result in 31,362 square feet of mitigation, 886 more
than the mitigation required by the WCA. This matter is scheduled for review by the City Council on October 2.
Member Davis asked about the time required for monitoring. Macbeth said it was up to a 5-year period,
starting when the replacement project begins. Chair Rudolph asked the role of the City in monitoring the project.
Macbeth said it was the City's responsibility to approve the plan, and make sure they follow the requirements as
outlined in their plan. The review must include photodocumentation. Macbeth noted that it is his responsibility to
maintain the monitoring records.
Macbeth briefly described the characteristics of a Type III wetland for the benefit of the newer APrC
members. Member Davis asked where the runoff from the fill area would go. Macbeth responded that other than
the area previously noted, the storm water ponds on site would be equipped to handle full site drainage.
City Forester Gregg Hove then described the tree cover on the parcel. He noted 6 woodlands on the site,
and the intended removal plan. He noted the fact that the trees were larger diameter, but faster growing. The
development as proposed would require the removal of 71.9% of the total tree coverage, 53,600 sq ft of significant
woodland. The City Ordinance allows for tree removal for this type of property at a rate of 47.5% for single phase,
multiple lot commercial. Required mitigation is 36 Category A trees. The developer has agreed to this amount.
Member Peterson asked if the 36 trees would qualify as mitigation for the 56,000 square feet of tree removal. Hove
said it would, based on the established formula used to calculate the Category A tree replacement.
Member Wright asked how square footage compares to actual trees, what the numbers might be. Hove
said that it is generally a 2: I replacement. Member Danner noted that there have not been many development items
since the new Commission started, and some clarification may be helpful. Paul Olson noted that there might be an
overview before the next Commission meeting. He also mentioned the "Significant Woodland" classification
system in the ordinance. Member Filipi clarified that 47% removal was allowable under he ordinance. Chair
Rudolph affirmed that a presentation of tree mitigation processes would benefit the group. Member Davis
mentioned that staff might want to consider televising the session as an educational tool for residents.
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September 13, 2001
Page 4
Paul Olson reviewed the park dedication for the development, noting the requirement in a development of
this type is 10%, or 2 acres in this case. The developer has offered a dedication of 4.4 acre Outlot A. The
developer has also agreed to have water piped from the Central Park site done at their expense, which will mean the
Central Park site can eliminate one stormwater pond. A trail is proposed along Central Parkway. The City is still
working with the developer on special event uses.
Developer Bob Smith was present to describe the project and answer questions. Smith noted that the
green space and park area would be coordinated with the City to maintain consistency with the scheme of Central
Park. He showed exterior elevations of similar projects, and discussed some of the program offerings of Argosy
University, the future inhabitant.
Chair Rudolph asked Smith to clarify a timeframe. Smith said that the contract should be signed in the
next couple of weeks, the land should be purchased shortly thereafter, and grading should begin about winter of this
year, about the time of Council approval. Footings should be placed early this winter. In the spring, the parking
lots and landscaping should be placed, and construction through winter. The University is anticipated to move in
about August of 2002.
Member Filipi commented on the excess parking that will be provided. Smith said the excess parking was
determined by history with University Operations. The University asked for more parking, which had been
identified as a need. Member Wright inquired about anticipated enrollment numbers. Smith said he could get the
number, but did not have it at that moment.
Superintendent Olson noted that the traffic levels at the university generally go up in the time when one
class lets out and another begins. This may precipitate the need for excess parking. Member Wright asked about the
semester break periods. Smith said that the school is on trimesters, and that this issue has been discussed with
Director Vraa. The City may be able to use the parking lot during large festivals and events taking place at the
Community Center.
Member Davis asked about the size of the parking stalls. Smith said they were standard 9' X 20' stalls, per
City ordinance. Member Davis asked about the wall on the property. Smith said that Duke is working with the
Perron family to run the project along grade, with the intention of eliminating the retaining wall. Davis asked if
more trees would remain on the property if the wall were left intact. Smith said this is correct, that he anticipates
future tree removal with future development. Member Davis asked City Forester Gregg Hove what the trees slated
for eventual removal might be. Hove noted they are the same as the adjacent woodland, soft wood trees.
Member Kubik asked if weekend classes were expected. Smith said he believed the university runs a
Monday to Friday operation. Member Kubik noted that the site is generally good, but there are concerns that the
sight line for Central Park would need a vegetative screen. Staff will need to ensure that it is properly buffered.
Smith said that this is already in the plan. He continued to describe the buffering techniques.
Member Danner noted that this use is preferable to the proposed high-density commercial use previously
proposed. She inquired whether the road that leads to Northwest Airlines would be paved. Superintendent Olson
said that this was likely. Smith briefly described the road that leads to Northwest Airlines. Member Danner
commented on the proposed use of the parking lot during the Fourth of July celebrations.
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September 13,2001
Page 5
Member Davis asked if there was a sidewalk on the Northwest Airlines connection road. Smith said that
there is a walkway on Central Parkway to the driveway. Member Davis noted that along of the north side parking
area, if there is overflow parking for events, there appears to be no opening for pedestrians without walking next to
traffic. Smith said that the slope and berming should alleviate some of this, but that the Parks and Recreation
Department and Engineering Department need to work with the geometrics. Davis noted the potential conflict for
pedestrians and traffic. Superintendent Olson stated that traffic is highly controlled during such events, and
pedestrians are directed to safe crossing points. He noted the need to work with police to work out a safe plan.
Davis noted the need for room in the parking lot area for pedestrians to safely congregate to get to walking area.
Member Danner asked how wide the entrance to the facility is. Smith said it was a typical 24' entrance.
Member Peterson moved to approve the recommendations, including:
. Cash trails dedication,
. Park dedication fulfilled by Outlot A,
. Negotiating for the use of the parking lot during City events at the Central Park property,
. A revised tree mitigation plan of 36 Category A trees or equivalent Band/or C trees,
. Tree protective measures be installed, the developer contact the City Forester,
. The applicant contact the City Forester to set up a pre-con site inspection prior to grading,
. Creating of a minimum 1.77 acre-feet of stormwater treatment covering a minimum of 0.51 acres
constructed to NURP standards, maximum 8 feet deep and as close as feasible to a 10: 1 aquatic bench
from normal water level,
. Cash dedication of $9,024 in lieu of ponding for untreated stormwater that will run off of 1.3 acres of the
site,
. And a City Council approved wetland replacement and monitoring plan, allowing the developer to fill
15,238 sq ft of wetland and create 20,037 square feet of NWC and 15,100 sq ft of PVC land.
. The developer agreed to have water piped to Central Park at their expense to eliminate a holding pond
and the developer is responsible for a trail way along Central Parkway.
Member Bari seconded. Superintendent Olson clarified that there is no cash trail dedication required at this time.
Outlot A meets the trail dedication. Chair Rudolph asked Member Peterson if the amendment is acceptable to her.
She affirmed, Chair Rudolph called for the vote, with all members in favor of approving the development item.
OLD BUSINESS
CASCADE BA Y 2001 SURVEY FINDINGS
Beth Wielde, Research and Special Projects, described the process of survey distribution and compilation
for the 2001 survey. Wielde briefly commented on the predominant trends and findings from the guest surveys.
These include:
I. Most season pass holders are from the southern Metro area.
2. Non-season pass holders are predominantly from the Twin Cities general metro.
3. Most respondents were adults between the ages of 30-39.
4. 74.5% of season pass holders had a pass in 2000. 45 out of 47 said they would likely get a pass for the
2002 season.
5. 76.2% of season pass holders felt the price is reasonable. 23.8% felt it was too high, citing $40 as a
reasonable price.
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September 13,2001
Page 6
6. 89.4% of respondents said they purchase food at the Captain's Galley. Those who don't cite high prices as
the reason.
7. 38.5% of daily admissions users said they would consider a season pass for next year. 53.3% said they
would not. This needs to be weighed against where daily admissions guests are coming from.
8. 77% of daily admissions guests feel the admissions price is fair. Of the 17.2% who feel it is high, $5 was
most frequently cited as a reasonable price.
9. Since the majority of visitors were at the park for the first time, most stated that they had not yet tried the
Captain's galley. Of those who had, 31.9% said they "sometimes" purchase food there, 23.8% said they
"always" do, and 9% said "never," again citing high prices.
10. Season pass holders generally found out about Cascade Bay in the "Discover Us" brochure. Most daily
admissions heard about it from friends or family.
11. Both user groups cited the Lazy River as their favorite feature.
12. Over 90% of both groups stated staff s concern with safety as "Very Good" or "Good," "Very Good"
being the highest ranking available.
13. Over 94% of both groups said they were comfortable with the level of lifeguard supervision.
14. Most guests feel that the pool and restrooms are clean and well maintained. The most commonly cited
'trouble spot' is the women's restroom floor.
15. When asked what guests would add, the most frequently cited items were more shade umbrellas, more
lounge chairs, and slushies in the concessions area.
16. Open-ended comments often mentioned the policy of no outside food or beverage allowed in the park.
17. Season pass holders rated their experience an 8.5. Daily admissions guests rated it an 8.9.
Member Melvin Williams inquired about special promotions and discounts that would help reduce the
admission price for some. Wielde noted that there are season pass scholarships available for those who qualify, and
Programs and Events supervisor Cathy Bolduc listed other promotions that reduce the admissions price.
Member Williams also suggested a comment card or suggestion box to be placed in the park for the season.
Wielde noted this suggestion and will follow up on this.
Member Kubik inquired about surveys distributed to children. Wielde noted that the attempts to distribute surveys
to children in 2000 were less than successful, so this year's surveys focused on adults.
This agenda item was for information purposes only. No action was requested of the Commission.
WATER RESOURCES UPDATE
Water Resources Coordinator Eric Macbeth presented two items for the Commission:
. Holz Lake weed harvesting results- 24 truckloads of aquatic plants were taken out of Holz Lake.
. The Captain Dodd project is wrapping up- pumping has begun.
Chair Rudolph inquired how often weed harvesting will need to be done at Holz Lake. Macbeth anticipates this
need each year, due to the high nutrient content in the lake. Member Kubik asked where the 24 truckloads go once
harvested. Macbeth said there is an area designated for them in Lexington Diffley Park.
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September 13,2001
Page 7
OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS
INTRODUCTION TO RECREATION SUPERVISORS
Recreation Superintendent Jeff Asfahl introduced Cathy Bolduc, Program and Events Supervisor, and Paula
Nowariak, Youth and Family Programs Supervisor. He noted that other recreation staff would give their summer
summaries during the October APrC meeting.
PROGRAMS AND EVENTS SUMMER REVIEW
Programs and Events Supervisor Cathy Bolduc described summer activities and participation statistics:
. Fun Run, with 328 runners
. Evening in the Park- 785 participants
. Senior Trips and Programs
o Como Park
o Bachman's
o Chanhassen Dinner Theatre
o Men's Chorus performances
o Potluck Picnic
o Trip on the Paddleford
. Sports classes and clinics:
o In-line skating
o In-line street skating
o Softball camp
o Tennis, with 775 people involved, not including adult leagues and co-rec league. Lessons and
camps.
. Babysitting and latchkey kids programs
. "10 Best Landscape Trees and Shrubs"
. Breakfast with the Easter Bunny- 110 kids with parents packing in to McDonald's
Chair Rudolph commented that this just illustrates the high level of service by the Parks and Recreation
Department. Member Peterson inquired what other criteria are used to evaluate the programs, along with participant
statistics. Bolduc said that there are surveys for staff and participants, regular staff meetings, and talking with kids
and parents. Parenti child feedback is gathered.
YOUTH PROGRAMS SUMMER REVIEW
Youth and Family Programs Supervisor Paula Nowariak described summer programs offered to youth and
families during the summer of 2001. 35 staff members helped coordinate programs such as an Open House,
Summer in the Park, Wagon O'Fun, among others. Nowariak described the need to evaluate sites to determine
future needs and usage. Sites should be monitored for staffing and check distribution within the City. Some of the
programs Nowariak described are:
. Field trips for teens, visits include Skateville, Cascade Bay, and movies,
. An on-site craft specialist was available at some youth programs,
. Artmobile,
. Preschool program, with its change to longer, 6-week sessions at Bridle Ridge, Goat Hill, and Rahn,
. Instructional T-ball,
Advisory Parks Commission Regular Meeting
September 13,2001
Page 8
. Games Sports and More, a program that is still developing. It may become a camp-like setting.
. Camp programs were popular again this year.
. Safety camp is in its eleventh year.
. Family Day activities. This program received very good feedback from the public.
Looking ahead to program adaptations, survey responses and other feedback have prompted staff to consider
the following ideas:
. Literature Camp
. Dance Camp
. Winter Sports Camp
. Putting more male role models on staff
. Developing programs geared for the 11- 15 year old demographic.
Chair Rudolph noted that with the new skate park up and running, there may be some opportunities to reach
this demographic. Member Peterson asked Nowariak to describe how curriculum is developed for the programs, to
benefit the newer APrC members. Nowariak stated that since the program's onset in the late 1970s, participants
give their input to staff, which uses their ideas to develop a program, which usually shapes itself around the public's
need.
Member Kubik expressed appreciation for the program's emphasis on safety (re: Nowariak stating measures
taken during the high heat days, and the operation of Safety Camps). He also noted positive feedback regarding the
Little Doodlers Art Camp. Member Danner stated she was amazed at what staff did all summer.
CENTRAL PARK! COMMUNITY CENTER UPDATE
Superintendent of Parks Paul Olson said that grading has started on the site, and that contractors CS McCrossen
have been going aggressively. Olson explained the upcoming road closing in the Northwest Airlines/ Unisys/
Lockheed Martin areas.
He also described the upcoming well drilling project. It is anticipated to go 400' deep on the east side of the
park. It will be part of the City's water system.
Olson also commented that the Grandfather Tree is doing well. The ground is finally starting to match the slant
of the tree.
GOLF COURSE EXPLORATORY COMMITTEE UPDATE
Researcher Beth Wielde stated that there have been two meetings of the Golf Course Exploratory Committee.
Meeting 1, held on August 26, was an overview of the project, and Committee members got their subcommittee
assignments. Meeting 2 held on September 6, was to build upon issues identified at Meeting #1 and identify issues
within the groups. Subcommittees met as a separate group for the first time. Dorothy Peterson described some of
the activities of the Land Use subcommittee during the breakout session on September 6.
NA TURAL RESOURCES SUBCOMMITTEE UPDATE
Advisory Parks Commission Regular Meeting
September 13,2001
Page 9
Member Filipi discussed attendance at a Wetland Protection Plan meeting in Burnsville. They discussed
the value of a wetland as a neighborhood amenity, and ordinances that respond to wetland issues. Burnsville
provided a copy of their work, and Water Resources Coordinator Eric Macbeth will be reviewing their policy.
The next meeting has not yet been set, but they plan to examine the feasibility of wetland buffers. Member
Danner noted Burnsville had done a wetland inventory, and know what it has lost. She was uncertain if Eagan had
a similar inventory.
Member Davis asked when the state law that governed wetland replacement was enacted. Park
Superintendent Olson said that he was uncertain, but modifications were relatively recent. Member Filipi noted that
Burnsville's inventory comes from a federal inventory. Chair Rudolph noted significant changes in Eagan's green
spaces from years ago. Member Davis inquired about a general timeframe, but Member Filipi said that there was no
great urgency to this matter.
ROUND TABLE
Member Williams commented on how nice it was to have the APrC packet earlier than the weekend
before, and inquired if this could be done in the future. Chair Rudolph noted that much of the paperwork,
particularly from developers, comes in at the last minute and the packet may not be able to be completed before the
paperwork is in.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Rudolph moved to adjourn, Member Filipi seconded with all present members voting in favor to
adjourn at 10:04 pm.
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Secretary
Advisory Parks Commission
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