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02/15/2001 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission Approved March 19,2001 ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA PRE-MEETING ORIENTATION A brief introductory session was held for new APrC members in the Community Room prior to the Regular Meeting. Director Ken Vraa had each APrC member introduce themselves, then Parks and Recreation staff introduced themselves and described their role with the department. Director Vraa spoke briefly about their role as an advisory body. Elections were held for chair, vice-chair, and secretary, information release forms and oath of office forms were distributed and returned. Positions: Chair: John Rudolph Vice-Chair: Dorothy Peterson Secretary: Terry Davis Subcommittees: Recreation John Rudolph Melvin Williams David Wright Acquisition! Development Joseph Bari Dorothy Peterson Terry Davis Margo Danner Richard Pletcher Natural Resources N. Mark Fillipi George Kubik MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF February 15, 2001 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks Commission was called to order at 7:06 p.m. on February 15, 2001 with all Commission Members present. Staff present include Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Jeff Asfahl, Superintendent of Recreation; Paul Olson, Parks Superintendent; Eric Macbeth Water Resources Coordinator; Loudi Rivamonte, Youth Development Coordinator and Beth Wielde, Administrative Specialist filling in for Recording Secretary Cherryl Mesko. APPRO V AL OF AGENDA Member George Kubik moved to approve the agenda, Member Dorothy Peterson seconded, with all voting in favor to approve the agenda. APPROV AL OF MINUTES OF December 18, 2000, and January 11, 2001 Chair Rudolph noted on page 3, 2nd paragraph of the December 18,2000 minutes, "After further discussion, Daryle Peterson moved, Terry Davis seconded with all members voting in favor..." should be amended to state, "Chair Rudolph abstained from voting." There we no alterations to the January 11,2001 minutes. Member Terry Davis moved to approve both minutes with the amendments to the December 18 set. Member Kubik seconded, with all members voting for approval. Advisory Parks Commission Minutes of Regular Meeting of February 15,2001 Page 2 VISITORS TO BE HEARD There were no visitors who wished to address the Commission under this agenda item. ART HOUSE REPRESENTATIVE KAY GUSTAFSON Superintendent Jeff Asfahl introduced Kay Gustafson, Arts & Humanities Council representative, and Jill Otto, recent addition to the program. Gustafson gave a brief history of the Arts and Humanities Council, which started in 1997 as a group of 5 people who wanted to provide an opportunity for children to explore the arts outside of a school setting. The group worked with Dorothy Peterson, who was on staff at the City at the time, to assist in developing the program. Peterson help the group secure use of the McCarthy House. In the early phases, the program had 40 students. Since this time, the program has grown, renovating the garage to handle the changing needs of the group. The Art House has merged with a group in West St. Paul to form the non-profit Dakota County Center for the Arts. By 1998, there were 120 participants in the programs. These numbers continue to grow, 400 participants in 1999, and over 800 in 2000. Gustafson described the organizational structure, including the 14 members Board of Directors, all community volunteers. Program growth demonstrated the need for a staff person, so Jill Otto was hired to fill that role. Gustafson stated the Arts & Humanities Council works with a $50,000 budget, which is mostly retained from class fees. She stated the mission/vision of the council, which is to develop, promote, and encourage participation in and appreciation for the arts, and encourage art education to all ages. Gustafson gave credit to the Parks and Recreation department for their ability and willingness to work with the Arts and Humanities Council. She described some of the programs that are coming up, including the Council's assuming responsibility for the Yankee Doodle Arts & Crafts Festival, continuing the Friday Night Music programs, and the Multicultural Festival. Gustafson illustrated how art is a catalyst for bringing people together, and noted activities intended for families and seniors. She stated their hopes to continue their current practices. Gustafson introduced Jill Otto, who displayed some of the works produced by art house members, including oil painting, pottery, and collage. Gustafson concluded with an anecdote about an Art House participant who experienced personal growth while attending programs, and how art benefits a broad range of people. Member Peterson congratulated Gustafson on her visions and presentation. Member Davis noted that employers often give tax-deductible matching gift contributions to non-profits such as the Art House. DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS Parks Superintendent Paul Olson discussed a variety of issues happening in the Parks Division, including his attendance at the Lebanon Hills Stakeholders Task Force. He noted that there was some consensus that this would be one of the last general meetings of the task force as a whole. It will soon be released for public comment. He also discussed: Skating rinks, stating that the cold weather has allowed the rinks to stay open later, but after this week, Band C sites will close, although A sites, those with rink lights, will remain open. Staff and County staff working as the "E-team" (stands for Erosion Team) have been meeting to discuss erosion issues. There is a meeting scheduled on March 22 to talk with developers about erosion issues. Advisory Parks Commission Minutes of Regular Meeting of February 15,2001 Page 3 The 2001 budget approved a new maintenance position. This employee was hired in-house from the Utility department, and should begin duties in April. Framework for the new Holz Farm shed is up. Forestry staff is planning for Arbor Day Event, Saturday May 5 at Lexington-Diffley, and the tree sale, Saturday, April 8 at the maintenance facility. Member Joe Bari asked what type of trees would be sold this year. Superintendent Olson said they were likely the same type of trees as last year, and that Forester Hove has already ordered them. Specific types will be listed in the spring Discover Us brochure. Chair Rudolph stated he liked the idea of the "E- Team" as a way to bring attention to the erosion issue. Olson noted the growth in attendance by staff members Member Kubik also compliment Olson and the E- Team on their efforts. He said he would like to see a report of the results when the study is complete. Recreation Superintendent Jeff Asfahl discussed the kick-off of regular senior meetings on Monday, February 21, from 9:00 to 1:00. These meetings will discuss recreation and leisure opportunities for Eagan's seniors. Superintendent Asfahl also discussed; Many of the winter leagues are wrapping up, with the exception of basketball and volleyball, which will continue into March. Summer softball packets have been mailed. On Saturday, January 27, the Annual Winter Ice Event was held at Blackhawk Park. EAA has completed Super Sign Up. The programs are growing, particularly soccer. For the next 6 to 8 weeks, staff will be working on field space allocation. The spring Discover Us brochure has been mailed. Recreation staff is planning for summer and fall events and programs. Preschool programs are flourishing. Winter Youth Development programs began January 15th at Quarry and Wescott Parks. The preschool program held a field trip to the Children's Museum in St. Paul on Wednesday, January 15. Per the 2001 budget, a portable concession trailer has been ordered. The recreation subcommittee was asked to help staff develop policies regarding the concessions trailer. Member Danner thanked Superintendent Asfahl for mentioning the seniors program, and mentioned the technical trouble in getting seniors activity announcements into the newspapers. Member Peterson asked about field enhancements for travel baseball, and Superintendent Asfahl stated there have been meetings to discuss amenities, turf, and field improvements, although there is more yet to do. Chair Rudolph suggested the week of March 5 for a recreation subcommittee meeting. A recreation subcommittee meeting was established for Thursday, March 8 at 5:30. CONSENT AGENDA ECOLAB ADDITION- PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION Parks and Recreation Director Ken Vraa gave a brief background on the development, which includes a lot split at the existing Ecolab site. The subdivision will create two lots, one for the existing building and one to be sold. There are no tree preservation issues associated with this site. There are no water quality issues associated with this site. Should future development occur on the site, the plat will need to come back for standard review Advisory Parks Commission Minutes of Regular Meeting of February 15,2001 Page 4 practices. Member Dorothy Peterson moved to approve the recommended preliminary subdivision, Chair Rudolph seconded, with all members voting to consent. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS There were no development proposals for the APrC to review. OLD BUSINESS Administrative Specialist Beth Wielde provided an update on progress of Phase II of the Off-Leash Dog Area (OLDA) study. There has been some preliminary investigation into potential sites, public support, and alternative funding sources, but the County has suggested meeting about a potential joint project. Work on the project is on hold until after this meeting, to determine if the County would like to be involved. The County has added a section on OLDAs in their draft Park System Plan, although this does not mean a County commitment. Member Pletcher inquired whether Off-Leash Dog Areas are enclosed. Director Vraa stated there were two primary ways of delineating OLDA boundaries, both natural/vegetative buffers and fencing. Specialist Wielde noted that both types of fencing require the owner to have voice and visual control over their pets. NEW BUSINESS PARK LIGHTING Superintendent Olson described the difference between high-level parking lot lighting and low-level security lighting. Olson stated that Dakota Electric Association was willing to work with the City on supplying and installing security lighting, where parking lot lighting would require a consultant. Dakota Electric Association would allow for perpetual maintenance for a $5 per pole maintenance fee for each pole they install. Although it is common for staff to work with parking lot lighting issues, Dakota Electric would cover a great deal of the cost for security lighting. Olson emphasized that Dakota Electric Associates are not an electrical contractor, but are willing to work with the City on optimal siting of security lights. 01son also discussed light pole options. Three available types include metal, concrete, and fiberglass. Fiberglass and concrete are most commonly used in Eagan parks, about a 50/50 split. Olson indicated that the hope is to install lighting at the ballfields at Lexington-Diffley, and showed the concept plan drawn up by Dakota Electric as an example. Security lighting at the entrance of Northview is desired. Member Bari asked where additional lighting would go at Northview Park, and Olson stated that lighting was only examined at this point at Lexington Diffley to conserve time in case the project did not take this direction. Olson stated that staff would work with Dakota Electric to determine the optimum lighting plans for Blackhawk and Northview. Olson noted that the intended lighting sites are not programmed for use in the off-peak season. Member Peterson asked if it was possible to turn off the security lighting during the off-season. Olson indicated that this would likely not be possible, since the lights operate on photo cells rather than timers. Member Pletcher inquired if the security lighting came on any time it got dark. Olson replied that this is correct, and parking lot lighting, while it would allow for more control, would require more staff time. Advisory Parks Commission Minutes of Regular Meeting of February 15,2001 Page 5 Member Peterson inquired if the Department were to work with Dakota Electric, would the City still have a choice of lighting fixtures. Olson indicated that this will be dealt with momentarily. Member Wright asked what the priority was for lighting on the Lexington-Diffley ballfields. Olson stated that ballfield lighting in conceptual at this time, that it would be far in the future. Field demand would indicate the need for further study. Olson stated that the fields are primarily used for youth slow-pitch softball/baseball. When the fields were originally created, transformers were installed for future lighting opportunities. Director Vraa expanded on the growth anticipated when the parks and fields were planned. Member Kubik asked who would be responsible if security lights were vandalized. Superintendent Olson said Dakota Electric would be responsible for this. Olson then described the variety of light fixtures and pole types. He also discussed cost implications denoted in the CIP. The CIP projects $50,000 for Blackhawk Park, $50,000 for Northview Park, and $75,000 for Lexington-Diffley lighting systems. If fiberglass security lighting was used, the cost would be around $31,000 for the Lexington Diffley site. He mentioned that concrete posts are $1,400 more per post than fiberglass. Estimated costs of parking lot lights about double the cost of security lights. Olson requested that the APrC consider whether it is appropriate to install security lights at the three sites, recommend the type of pole, and the scope of the project; whether it is to be security lights at all proposed sites, or some combination thereof. Chair Rudolph stated that the proposal identified some partnership potential with Dakota Electric for security lights that would reduce cost to the City tremendously. He stated that it appears to be an easy decision. Member Peterson moved that staff proceed with fiberglass pole security lights at Lexington Diffley and Northview Park, concrete security lights at Blackhawk for continuity, and work with Dakota Electric in all cases. Member Davis seconded. Member Davis also asked whether the $5 per pole per month includes electric fee, and whether the light is on every night every day of the year. He also asked what the typical cost is for lamps on a timer. Olson stated the cost of lamps is about $25 to $50 per lamp, and a consultant would need to be brought in to retrofit existing lights. Member Wright asked about residential concerns with new lighting, and Superintendent Olson said at Lexington- Diffley, light spread would not be noticeable. Light spill is more from nearby commercial buildings. He also noted that Blackhawk Park is heavily wooded, which creates a buffer area to shield light. Member Pletcher inquired if Northview had the worst time with light spill. Olson indicated that most of the lighting occurs in the back of the park, and that light spill is not a significant issue. Member Davis inquired how far south toward residential property the security lights would go, and Superintendent Olson showed the intended light placements, and noted that there was no intent to light the whole park, just the indicated area for security and intersection safety. Member Davis noted that staff may want to get in touch with adjacent homeowners who may be impacted. Member Kubik inquired as to the durability of the fiberglass poles. Olson noted that the durability of fiberglass and concrete is very close. Member Bari inquired from where the monthly fee is funded. Olson replied there is a line item in the operational budget for these things. Chair Rudolph called for the vote, all voting in favor for Member Peterson's motion of staff proceeding with fiberglass security lights at Northview and Lexington Diffley, and concrete at Blackhawk Park, and working with Dakota Electric. Advisory Parks Commission Minutes of Regular Meeting of February 15,2001 Page 6 WATER RESOURCES UPDATE SCHWANZ LAKE CLEAN WATER PARTNERSHIP PROJECT FINAL REPORT Water Resources Coordinator Eric Macbeth gave background into the Schwanz Lake Clean Water Partnership program. The program started as a grant. The project will close by gaining City Council approval for closure. In 1992, the City studied water quality in Schwanz Lake, which was considered a degraded water body. The 1990 Water Plan outlined Schwanz as being a potentially swimmable lake. Phosphorus was entering the water body from direct drainage. Macbeth discussed strategies used to alleviate this: Public information/ education, including children's programs about water. Public action Storm drain labeling, which lets people know what lake each grate drains to. Street sweeping study Monitoring water quality Stormwater monitoring Weed harvesting Sub-project fishing pier on Schwanz Lake Herbicide treatment Macbeth showed watershed exhibits, and discussed future trends and piping efforts done as part of the grant. One effort Macbeth wished to address is the reduction of curlyleaf pondweed. He discussed other challenges and successes of the project. There are water quality improvements in the lake, though the level of precipitation has been lower than normal. There is a direct relation between precipitation and phosphorus levels. Member Kubik asked what the flushing rate is. Macbeth stated that he would need to look that up for the definite answer, but it may be within the 30-40 day rate. He would be happy to check. Member Peterson asked if Macbeth used 1999 figures, and Macbeth stated that they had. Member Peterson commented that 2000 figures would have skewed results due to the Superstorm. Chair Rudolph complimented Macbeth on the report. Macbeth offered hard copies of the report if anyone wanted one. Member Danner inquired about the size and depth of the lake, and the fish within the lake. Macbeth stated that the lake is 12 acres and 13 feet deep. He also noted that the DNR stocked channelcatfish in the lake, even if nobody has caught any. Catfish act as a predator to help enhance the fish life in the lake. Chair Rudolph moved to recommend Council accept the project and report, and continue completion of the project. Member Wright seconded. Member Kubik asked if the APrC needed to add a "priority management" section. Chair Rudolph did not see this as necessary. All members voted in favor of the recommendation. LOWER MINNESOTA RIVER WATERSHED DISTRICT PROPOSED JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT Water Resources Coordinator Macbeth provided background on the request from the Lower Minnesota Watershed District, which covers the northwest corner of the City, and encompasses about 10% of the City. They request a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) from all cities within the watershed district for a cooperative arrangement, which basically puts into document form efforts that are currently underway. This would give the district oversight for any new development that would impact the watershed. Advisory Parks Commission Minutes of Regular Meeting of February 15, 2001 Page 7 Member Peterson inquired if this gives the Watershed Management District the right of refusal. Macbeth said that they have ultimate regulatory authority, but it would be a collaborative effort, and that it is already informally part of the City's internal process. Proposals go to the watershed management district as part of the City's review process. Member Bari asked if the City Attorney has reviewed the agreement. Macbeth wasn't certain, but said he would make certain that this is done. Member Bari asked if the District would have to approve each development. Macbeth said that the District wants to provide pre-approval comments. Member Bari asked if this would give them power to deny developments, and Macbeth stated that they could provide comments only. Member Bari inquired if the Water Quality staff had the staff resources to implement this agreement. Macbeth said that they are not considering a new staff position for this, since Eagan already makes this effort. Chair Rudolph asked if staff was aware of any community that has not joined. Macbeth is not aware of the status for any other city in regards to this issue. George Kubik moved to approve the joint powers agreement, with the amendment by Member Bari that the City Attorney review and approve. Member Davis seconded, with all members voting in favor. OTHER UPDATES (WATER QUALITY) Macbeth addressed clarification regarding the Supreme Court decision, a 5-4 vote, to reinforce and expand federal to state devolution of power. Macbeth gave a background on the case in question. He continued to explain state power over created wetlands. The Corps of Engineers is still sorting out the decision. It seems that Minnesota's current regulations, which are very detailed, the ruling will have minimal impact on current City procedure. Macbeth is unaware of any Eagan sites the decision will impact. He also shared a department award, the Wetland Health Evaluation Process, year 2000 Achievement A ward. He discussed the solar powered aerator on East Thomas Lake, and showed photographs of the aerator in action. OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS COMMUNICA TION- ATTORNEY RESPONSE RE HARDSHIP INTERPRETATION This issue has been deferred to the March 19,2001 meeting. YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM UPDATE Youth Development Coordinator Loudi Rivamonte presented an update on Youth Development efforts. She noted how the program started in the Wescott Area as a program for underserved youth. She noted efforts by School District, Dakota County HRA, the City, and the Wescott Neighborhood to serve this faction. The program has since expanded to Quarry Park. Rivamonte noted the dedicated staff serves over 100 participants per trimester, and the program has expanded. Promotional campaigns include targeting schools and apartment managers to help spread the word. Rivamonte described efforts to partner with EFC programs to combine events. She also described the programs offered, and recent expansion of programs to Rahn and Diffley parks, although these have proven a challenge because there is no centralized place to hold meetings. Some of the barriers faced by Youth Development staff include personnel at the apartments since managers change frequently, and funding. Rivamonte has managed to secure alternative funding, however. She also discussed socioeconomic issues related to Youth Development including transient population and frequent changeover, high crime rates, and a demographic shift. Rivamonte discussed the increase in the Somali population, and the subsequent need for staff education in Somali culture and the Islam religion. Advisory Parks Commission Minutes of Regular Meeting of February 15, 2001 Page 8 Rivamonte discussed the barriers faced by programming at the Quarry Park site, included social isolation, and lack of cooperation in promoting programs. But, she said, numbers had doubled last year. She noted that the demographics in Quarry Park are also changing, and now about 60% of the population is from India or Russia. The program, Rivamonte continued, is focused on reducing risk factors. She also noted that there was going to be a Somali reception on Saturday, February l7. She noted the use of a cultural "broker" rather than interpreter, which helps interpret the cultural mores rather than just interpreting the language. She expressed interest in having monthly meetings with the Somali groups. Chair Rudolph noted that he has seen similar demographic shifts in the schools. Member Bari complimented Rivamonte, "Mother Theresa has nothing on you!" and member Danner asked what time on Saturday the reception would be held. Rivamonte said it is 11 :00 and everyone is welcome. SET CIP MEETING DATE Director V raa suggested holding the CIP meeting either on the 21 st of February or the 1 sl of March, 5: 15 or 5:30 in the 2nd floor conference room. The meeting was set for February 21st. ROUND TABLE Member Bari stated the he sensed the APC is frequently credited for preliminary plat review in the Council minutes, that the APrC's participation is overlooked. Director Vraa suggested bringing it up at the March meeting, and he noted that the APC action echoed the APrC action on the Finch Place development. Member Davis noted that there is often no historic record of the APrC's participation in development review in the Council minutes. Chair Rudolph stated that this may change now that there is a former APrC member on the Council. Member Peterson asked about the status of the Conditional Use permit presented during the January meeting. Director Vraa said that this would need to be checked on. Director Vraa noted the two attachments to the packet, the "Morning After" memo produced by Admin Specialist Wielde, and an article about the evolution of playground equipment. ADJOURNMENT Member Peterson moved to adjourn, Chair Rudolph seconded, with all members voting in favor to adjourn at 9:25. .~ ,--(~ ()-~ . ,:.--y,,'--c.- ~~--""l IlL- 3_J<...;).~'~''- Secretary Advisory Parks Commission //(f /~; > ,I