03/19/2001 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
Approved April 16. 2001
ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF March 19, 2001
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks Commission was called to order at 7:02 p.m. on March 19.2001
with the following Commission Members present: John Rudolph, Terry Davis, George Kubik, Joseph Bari,
Dorothy Peterson, Margo Danner, Melvin Williams, David Wright, and Richard Pletcher. Member N. Mark Filipi
was absent Staff present include Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Jeff Asfahl, Superintendent of
Recreation; Paul Olson, Parks Superintendent; Eric Macbeth Water Resources Coordinator; Bob Kirmis, Planner,
C.J. Lilly, Parks Planner, and Beth Wielde, Administrative Specialist filling in for Recording Secretary Cherryl
Mesko.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Member George Kubik moved to approve the agenda, Member Joseph Bari seconded, with all in
attendance voting in favor to approve the agenda.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF February 15, 2001
Joseph Bari noted that the introductory paragraph to the February 15 meeting did not include a listing of
Commission members present. He also noted that on page 1, January 11 meeting minutes, he had abstained from
voting on all issues because he was not present.
Bari also noted that on page 7 of the February minutes, he amended the motion to include the City
Attorney review and approve the JPA. Dorothy Peterson moved to approve the minutes as amended, Member Terry
Davis seconded, with all attending members voting to approve.
VISITORS TO BE HEARD
There were no visitors who wished to address the Commission under this agenda item.
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS! SUPERINTENDENT'S UPDATE
Recreation Supervisor Jeff Asfahl discussed happenings in the Recreation Division, including:
. Departmental participation at the Home and Leisure Show the previous weekend. The event was
held at the Civic Arena and had a good attendance.
. Field scheduling- the booking rates speak well for the field quality.
. Recreation staff input for the next "Discover Us" brochure.
. Seniors have now enjoyed 4 weeks of Wednesday programs. Asfahl encouraged seniors in the
viewing public to participate in this program.
. Success of the latchkey/ babysitting program
. Closure of outdoor skating rinks and Trapp Farm sliding hill.
. Softball registrations are less than last year's numbers, however this may be a result of the
differing weather patterns. This may pick up soon as warmer weather arrives.
. Demand for golf programs is high.
. Registrations are being taken for tennis, sand volleyball, and co-rec volleyball.
.
Advisory Parks Commission
Minutes of Regular Meeting of March 19,2001
Page 2
. Recreation division is gearing up for concessions opportunities.
. Registration for spring and summer programs is gearing up.
. The Department is having some glitches in the on-line registration programs. Urged the public to
please have patience, seeing as how this is a new system and one of the first in the state.
Member Kubik commented on the busy season coming up. David Wright asked what average registration
figures for summer softball teams generally are. Asfahl stated there were approximately 225.
Parks Superintendent Paul Olson passed around an invitation to the upcoming E-Team meeting on March
22. This meeting is designed for contractors, builders, and developers to discuss erosion issues. Other issues Olson
discussed include:
. Sale of low (less than 3 %) phosphorus fertilizer by the Eagan Boosters.
. The City will be working with the Toro Company again this year.
. The Lebanon Hills Master Plan will be reviewed shortly by the Dakota County Board, and if it is
approved, it will be out for a 3D-day public review session. Copies of the plan will be available at
libraries and on the Dakota County web site.
. Friends of the Farm met last week to discuss options for the funds allocated by cell tower rentals
at other locations. The group identified upcoming improvement and repair opportunities. They
are also looking at grant funding for future barn repairs.
. The annual tree sale will be held April 28 at the maintenance facility.
. Arbor Day events will be held on May 5.
Member Bari asked what type of trees would be available at the Tree Sale. Olson said that the trees have
typically been maple, bi-color oak, clump birch. Parks Planner CJ Lilly mentioned that Hackberry may be included.
Olson said they should have more information soon.
Member Pletcher asked if this was the first E-Team meeting. Olson stated it was, and that RSVP's were
starting to trickle in. Chair Rudolph asked if it was geared toward towards other city staff or developers/ contractors
or citizens. Olson stated it was geared toward developers and contractors. Member Wright asked if Olson recalled
any trouble noticing some of the earlier meetings. Olson said there was some trouble; a communications gap
between the City and the newspapers. Member Peterson stated that information regarding the tree sale would be
included in the next "Discover Us" "Explore Eagan" brochure.
Member Kubik complimented the tree sale, encouraging staff to "keep it up." Member Peterson inquired if
volunteers were needed for the sale, and Olson stated that they were. Chair Rudolph asked if other communities use
clubs like Boosters to promote low phosphorus fertilizers. Olson stated that he is unaware of any.
PUBLIC HEARING RE DNR GRANT
At 7:30 pm, Superintendent Paul Olson presented some background into the project and some of the
requirements for the grant application. These include:
. Public Scope and related activities. The grant application covers areas that may not be funded in
Phase One of the Central Park Master Plan. This includes 700 feet of bituminous trail leading
from the front of the building to the bridge area. It also includes 1,000 feet of trail on the east side
of the property.
. Projected time frame. Olson detailed the anticipated time frame for the park elements.
. Financing. Olson described the matching funds available from the grant.
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Minutes of Regular Meeting of March 19,2001
Page 3
. Cost to the community. Much of the Phase One cost is covered by the levy referendum passed in
1999. However, there are elements that will not be available for building until later phases.
. Associated costs. Olson described some long term costs such as maintenance of the trails.
Chair Rudolph asked about the timeframe for submission and hearing back of the grant. Olson stated it
was due on March 30, although he was going to try to submit it by March 22. He noted that selection will take
some time due to the field investigation done by the DNR. Member Peterson asked how elements of the grant fit in
to the overall priorities of the DNR. Olson noted that the DNR did not delineate specific priorities this time, but the
trails are consistent with the type of projects they will fund. Member Kubik asked if Olson was looking for the
APrC to take any action on this matter. Olson stated that since this is the public hearing, he is looking for comments
from the floor.
Chair Rudolph then called for visitors to be heard on this matter. There were no visitors to be heard.
Member Peterson then moved to close the public hearing, Member Davis seconded, and all attending
Commissioners voted to approve closure of the public hearing. Olson noted that the City Council has already
approved submission of the grant, and approved the APrC to hold this public hearing. Member Kubik moved to
submit the grant, Member Davis seconded, with all attending members voting to affirm Council direction to submit
the grant.
CONSENT AGENDA
BLUE RIDGE 4th ADDITION- CSM PROPERTIES
Member Davis moved to approve the consent agenda. Member Bari seconded, with all attending members
voting to approve.
** Note: The developer has already paid all cash dedications.
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS
THOMAS WOODS- MANLEY BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION
Planner Bob Kirmis provided a detailed background into this preliminary plat. Thomas Woods is a 3D-lot
subdivision that lies on 30 acres. The applicant is requesting rezoning from Ag to R-l. The parcel is bordered by
single family lots, and to the east, Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
Kirmis noted the wetlands on the property. He noted that the tree mitigation plan submitted by the
developer was approved by the APC in December. Is it on the City Council agenda for March 20, 200 I. Member
Peterson noted that the item has not yet been reviewed by the APrC. Director Ken Vraa noted that Forester Gregg
Hove stated tree mitigation is not an issue in this development. Director Vraa produced the APrC memo pertaining
to this issue. The APrC can proceed with Water Resources Coordinator Eric Macbeth, since wetland issues are
recurrmg.
Water Resources Coordinator Eric Macbeth provided detail about the drainage areas in the subdivision.
These area are divided into 4 stormwater basins where stormwater is treated on-site. There is also some off-site
runoff, but only about 1 acre worth. The amount of runoff is appropriate for the capabilities of the treatment ponds.
The concern is in proximity to Fitz Lake, which would receive 10 acres of runoff.
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Minutes of Regular Meeting of March 19, 2001
Page 4
Wetland concerns include the two delineated wetlands in the southern portion of the property. There is a
total of 5,841 square feet slated for fill that qualifies for mitigation. The developer proposes to create 6,016 square
feet within the larger southwest wetland. Part of the replacement can be counted as wetland credit. The Public
Value credit would require 7,788 square feet. Overall, 6,016 square feet more than meets the requirements. The
developer has met the wetland requirements.
The developer is also proposing a monitoring plan. The purpose is to make sure the replacement functions
as a wetland. The developer will monitor and submit reports to the City for a minimum of 5 years.
There is a IS-day comment period for this type of development. Normally this occurs before approval, but
this needs to be contingent on any comments before April 2.
Of note is that 1/3 of the site is in the Fitz Lake Shoreland District. Lot size and width restrictions have
been met for this type of district. As a general comment, Macbeth noted erosion control mechanisms would need to
be placed by the developer. He noted that the 1.1 acres that drain off-site are subject to cash dedications.
Parks Superintendent Olson stated that it appears Forester Hove had a tree plan prepared for review in
November, but since the item was pulled from the agenda, the information went to the APe. The tree inventory was
submitted with the application, and showed that there were 398 significant trees on the site. The developer has
proposed to remove 316 trees (79%). Allowable tree removal for this type of development is 40%. Required
mitigation is 197 Category A trees. The developer chose to mitigate 127 trees, using category A trees for the
replacement. The balance of 54 trees will be planted on Oak Bluff, another of the developer's properties. This
method is allowed by the City. Tree mitigation has been met.
Neighborhood trail easement has been slated between lots 8 and 9. This would link this neighborhood and
a bordering one to Lebanon Hills. Dakota County found this connection appropriate. Olson noted that the most
successful trails are the ones paved right away during the initial construction of the development. He also noted that
the City is responsible for signage. The developer has agreed to install 8' bituminous trail.
Paul Olson noted the changes to the action request, which now includes tree preservation, cash trails
dedication, the 8' bituminous trail and its easement, and a cash parks dedication.
Chair Rudolph mentioned how important trail construction before housing construction is, as some
homeowners are 'surprised' by the installation of a trail after they have moved in. He notes that it is good to take a
stand on this issue at this time.
Member Kubik stated potential buyers should be notified of the trail to avoid later suprise. Member
Pletcher asked if the trail easement is greater than the actual 8' trail. Olson replied that it is. Member Pletcher then
asked if the trail split lot lines. Olson stated that it does. Member Bari asked if there were any provisions for parks
and trails fees in the recommendation. Olson noted that these were not included in the packet, but will need to be
mentioned in the recommendations for commission consideration.
Member Peterson asked if custom grading was possible to lessen the impact on trees. Olson noted that it
was a difficult site to work with, but the City has worked with the developer on this and there will be some trees
saved. Chair Rudolph inquired about plans for 5-year monitoring of wetlands. Coordinator Macbeth responded this
was provided for in the wetland replacement plans. The City has ultimate authority over monitoring, and the
developer has proposed to include reports photographic evidence. The City will remain in authority for
determination of wetland stability.
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Minutes of Regular Meeting of March 19,2001
Page 5
Joseph Bari moved the recommendation with the following amendments: include provision for park and
trail dedication, and the tree mitigation plan. **Note: there was no second on this motion because it was
incorporated into the master motion.
Member Kubik asked what the stormwater requirements would be if there were no wetlands on the site.
Macbeth stated that these would be the same, and a Public Value credit would be created. Mitigation requires the
same amount. Kubik asked if that meant this case was a 1: 1 replacement value.
Member Peterson noted that Lot 3 on the southern edge is built on fill. She asked what action was
undertaken to keep that dry. Kevin Manley of Manley Land Development responded that compacted fill, when
packed down properly, has less air pockets than normal fill. Manley Brothers noted efforts to work with engineers
on keeping houses dry. It must be good fill.
Member Kubik asked about the pad for lot 4 in regards to the distance from the pond to the wetlands.
Manley stated it was approximately 40 feet. Kubik asked if it was terraced, and Manley replied that it was slab on
grade, with no basement. Macbeth interjected that the scale on the plans was 1 "=50', thus the distance was actually
about 25'. Member Peterson asked how much bounce occurs in the wetlands. Director Vraa and Coordinator
Macbeth stated that it was about aI' bounce. Chair Rudolph expressed concern with fertilizer runoff. Macbeth
stated that lots 3 and 4 were close to the wetland, and that erosion control will be emphasized. Member Peterson
asked where the off-site drainage would go. Macbeth commented on the minimal runoff the drainage created.
Member Davis inquired whether runoff from driveways went to treatment ponds. And Macbeth said they do. The
Commission noted the tight fit in regard to the wetland setback to the houses. Manley noted that the requirement on
record is 30'.
Member Bari commented that the Parks and Trail Dedication motion is still on the floor, to be included in
the larger motion. Chair Rudolph noted that the tree mitigation plan needs to be included, too. Member Bari noted
that it was in there. Member Kubik restated the motion, To approve revisions of the proposal subject to the
conditions of an 8' trail dedication and trail easement, meeting water quality requirements, a cash dedication of
$1,961 in lieu of ponding, proposed wetland replacement monitoring plans, and create NW A, and public value land
credit as recommended by staff, developer must be responsible for cash parks dedication, cash trail dedication, tree
mitigation plan, and a 30' wetland setback on lot 4.
Member Peterson seconded the motion. Director Vraa noted that the development will be subject to a
comment period. All present members voted to approve recommendation.
OLD BUSINESS
Administrative Specialist Beth Wielde provided an update on progress of Phase II of the Skateboard Park
study. This item is for information purposes only, and requires no action.
NEW BUSINESS
5- YEAR CIP
Superintendent Paul Olson provided background information on CIP funds, and the recent action on the
plan. He noted that the new "fifth" year, 2006, has been added to the plan. He stated that 2002 is now the year of
emphasis at the meeting on March 21.
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Minutes of Regular Meeting of March 19, 2001
Page 6
He described some of the funding and some of the projects anticipated for the upcoming years, using an
exhibit given to the Commission in their packet.. This included ongoing projects and carryovers from 2001, annual
expenditures, 2002 Annual Project Summary, and each year projections through 2006. Olson said that staff is
looking for APrC to recommend 2002-2006 CIP.
Chair Rudolph said he is very comfortable this CIP embraces where the funds are to go. He made a motion
to approve. Member Kubik seconded, with all members voting in favor to approve the 5-year CIP.
Member Davis requested that some of the playground sites be part of the pre-meeting tours. Olson agreed,
and explained the process of pre-meeting park tours to the new Commission members. Member Davis requested
that soccer lighting sites also be included in the tours. Director Vraa agreed.
FISH LAKE WATER QUALITY PROJECT- RECLASSIFICATION OF CITY POND JP-47
Water Resources Coordinator Eric Macbeth gave the background of the Fish Lake alum dosing study. He
described the facility in the chain of waters from Curlee to JP-46 to Fish Lake. He described the process of the
alum and phosphorus mixture that inhibits algae growth. He is at the point where he needs Council
recommendation to proceed.
Alum is added to the stormwater trunk, and spans the three water bodies. Last year, staff increased the
alum dose from level 1 to level 8. The problem, however, is the potential cost to the water body. Level 8 has
proven to be effective, where Level I has not. Levels 4 to 8 are needed for operation. While the alum dosing
occurs, sediment is moved into JP-47. Because of its class IV classification, no sediment should be added to this
pond. The plan is to proceed with the effort to remove sediment that was added during the previous year.
Member Davis asked what the wildlife implications were, and the impact on bordering property owners.
Macbeth stated that the neighbors are generally aware of the project, at least those who were around when it started.
But with this new strategy, additional contact efforts will be made. As for the wildlife, it's a tradeoff. At this
point, the primary wildlife is bullhead fish, cattails, and edge water wildlife. Director Vraa stated they didn't have a
specific notification system planed, but staff fully intends to do so.
Macbeth described project awareness by both the PCA and MN DNR. They permit the project annually.
Macbeth noted that JP-47 is not a DNR wetland, but under the WCA, thus under City jurisdiction. The City could
apply banking credits.
Member Peterson asked Macbeth to clarify the recommendation is to change in classification from a 4 to a
6. Macbeth stated that this was the recommendation, because it will be collecting sediment. The student working
with staff will be looking at sand filtration on the easement. It would allow for one clean-out location. This
process, however, needs further study.
Macbeth stated that after the Superstorm in July, JP-47 became a meandering channel. Member Peterson
asked if the disposal of sediment has become a problem. Macbeth did not know for certain if it is a problem, but
sediment does need to be removed from the pond.
Chair Rudolph moved to recommend to the City Council a reclassification from a Type 4 to a Type 6.
Member Bari seconded, with all present members voting to approve.
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Minutes of Regular Meeting of March 19,2001
Page 7
WATER RESOURCES UPDATE
Macbeth informed the Commission about the status of the Joint Powers Agreement described at the
February APrC meeting. He said it is being reviewed by the City Attorney, and will be brought back to the
Commission at the April meeting. Member Bari noted that the City wanted equal voice in development proposals,
should the agreement go forth.
Macbeth provided exhibits regarding winter lake aeration, which detail the process and two different types
of aerators. Chair Rudolph noted news items about fish kills due to oxygen depletion, and complimented the City in
its efforts to reduce fish kills by winter lake aeration. Member Peterson asked about lake turnover, and Macbeth
said that that occurs more frequently in deeper water bodies. Deeper waters can turn over more rapidly. And it
depends on the fish species in the lake. Member Danner asked how many lakes this is done on, and the size of those
lakes. Macbeth said that they've submitted applications for about a dozen high priority lakes. He noted that around
December and January, the lakes are monitored for dissolved oxygen.
OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS
CENTRAL PARK MASTER PLAN
Director Vraa gave an update on the site plan for phase one of Central Park, and noted that the major
elements have been approved by the City Council. The plan has been split into 4 major components:
. Roadway, Central Parkway
. East side of picnic area and the oak forest. He noted the changes to the picnic shelter area since the Task
Force report
. Marsh/wetland, bandshell, skating pond, building. He noted the drainage methods and bounce on the
skating pond and wetlands. Also noted trails, the facility (which should come in on budget), uses and
views of the wetlands, and parking/ proof of parking.
. Ellipse and festival area.
Member Davis expressed concern over impervious surface on the site, and asked what methods are being
used to try to reduce this. Director Vraa replied that proof of parking was shown rather than 100% of parking lot
build-up, the creation of stormwater ponds and redirected water paths, and attempts to break up large surface areas
with foliage. Member Davis asked about unique examples of diverting runoff. Vraa replied they are looking at
options during the design and development phase of the process. At this point, they are trying to get in grades.
Chair Rudolph noted how important it is that the public is aware of the concern.
CONVERSION OF TELEPHONES
Superintendent Olson stated how changes in telecommunications capabilities can help realize considerable
cost savings in staff phones. Phones currently used have been seasonal, but with the changeover in management for
the primary phone companies, reconnection costs have become too high, about $3,400. The idea of staff using cell
phones created some logistic problems such as loss and methods of reimbursement. The decision was to go with
bag phones, designs that can be secured to the wall. The savings would be about $2,000 initially, with upgrade
options in the future.
Member Peterson asked if pay phones would still be available for the public. Olson said that the pay
phones are losing revenue; cellular phones are taking away the business. Pay phones run about $70-$75 per month,
and staff is looking in to the cost! benefit.
Advisory Parks Commission
Minutes of Regular Meeting of March 19, 2001
Page 8
MOONSHINE PARK UPDATE
Parks Planner C.J. Lilly presented the property analysis done by the Sabangi Group. They found that the
house conversion is feasible, and could be done within budget. Director Vraa will take this issue before the City
Council. He also gave thanks to the family for their patience and assistance.
Member Peterson inquired about how people will get to the lower level entry from the upper level. Lilly
stated that they would have to exit the building on the upper level and walk outside to the back, where they can
enter the lower level. Interior stairs will be removed; they would not meet code. Member Kubik asked if the lower
level door would be ADA compliant. Lilly said it would. Member Kubik asked if the fireplace was still good, and
Lilly said it was as far as it was known. Member Kubik noted that the house was a good amenity for the park.
ATTORNEY RESPONSE RE DEFINITION OF HARDSHIP
Director Vraa noted the convoluted memo given by the City Attorney's office. Chair Rudolph agreed; and
Member Davis asked what the APrC should do with it. Chair Rudolph said the section states the City can't exceed
State authority. Variances are to only be granted by the Council. Member Kubik stated it was important that
economic considerations do not constitute a hardship. Chair Rudolph said it will be interesting to see what happens
with the Heritage Tree issue.
RECREA TION SUBCOMMITTEE UPDATE
Superintendent Asfahl told the APrC that the recreation subcommittee met on March 8. He showed an
exhibit of the new concession trailer, and described some of its features. He noted that the trailer schedule was
already busy, with May 5th softball tournament, July Fourth events, and the plans to operate at Lexington-Diffley to
do some testing of the equipment. He also covered the operational objectives, such as fiscal management and
events scheduling.
Asfahl described some of the teen activities in the Recreation Division, stating that Recreation Supervisor
Paula Nowariak is conducting an ongoing survey of teen opportunities. It is, however, problematic to find the best
possible program. The challenge is to keep up with ever-changing interested, and how to adapt the programs.
Member Peterson asked about hot water and wastewater in the concessions trailer. Asfahl indicated that
there is a water heater and a wastewater tank on the trailer. The holding tank will need to be dumped. Member
Peterson stated Sonya Rippe's work with the Department of Health regarding licensing. Chair Rudolph asked if this
would be done by late April. Asfahl said he hoped so. Member Kubik asked if there was an ice maker aboard, or if
this will have to be brought in. Asfahl said that this issue in an unknown at this point. There is a freezer on the
trailer, but the ice issue is uncertain at this time. Member Kubik asked if there was air conditioning, and if there
were plans to run it on hot days. Asfahl said that staff is advocating this.
Chair Rudolph asked if one of the pre-meeting tours could include the concession trailer. Member Davis
asked if there would be a bag phone used in the trailer, and Asfahl was unsure about this. Member Williams
discussed the possibility of having a written policy for groups and have these guidelines discussed at meetings.
Member Rudolph said that this has been discussed, and is a good point. Member Danner asked if the trailer was
new, and where it was from. Asfahl said it was indeed new, and the dealer is out of Champlin/ Anoka Minnesota.
The trailer is suited to the City's needs, and customized.
Member Bari asked if a state license was needed. Asfahl stated the trailer would need a Health Department
license. Member Danner asked which City vehicle would be used to pull the trailer. Asfahl stated that
Advisory Parks Commission
Minutes of Regular Meeting of March 19,2001
Page 9
they have a parks vehicle in mind, one with a hitch. Member Danner further inquired about storage. Asfahl said
that they were working on that. Member Davis asked if the logo would be painted on the side. Asfahl said that it
was intended, and the department is kicking around ideas for that. He acknowledged the efforts of the recreation
subcommittee.
ROUND TABLE
Chair Rudolph mentioned the upstart of summer tours, which is a good way to experience the sites
connected with some of the issues presented. These will start in April at 6:00, prior to the regular APrC meeting.
Member Kubik inquired about the Lone Oak Tree, the original having been removed several years ago.
Asked if that tradition and symbol could be resurrected. Director Vraa said that there was discussion of such a thing
or a similar gateway symbol at the community center site. Member Kubik noted that it is a good symbol to
consider.
Member Davis noted that he would not be attending the April APrC meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Rudolph moved to adjourn, Member Kubik seconded, with all members voting in favor to adjourn at
9:55.
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Secretary
Advisory Parks Commission
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