06/15/2005 - City Council Special~' ~~.
SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2005
5:30 PM
EAGAN ROOM-EAGAN MUNICIPAL CENTER
AGENDA
I. ROLL CALL AND AGENDA ADOPTION
II. VISITORS TO BE HEARD
JOINT MEETING WITH THE APC-5:30 PM
III. LOW DENSITY COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE PLAN DESIGNATION /
Q ~ HOUSING TYPES
IV. NOISE ATTENUATION ORDINANCE
JOINT MEETING WITH THE APrC-6:30 PM
~~ V. 2020 VISION (PARKS AND RECREATION)
a. AGRICULTURAL ZONING / GREENSPACE PRESERVATION
OPTIONS
VI. OTHER BUSINESS
VII. ADJOURNMENT
Agenda Memo
June 15, 2005 Special Joint City CounciUAPC Meeting
III. LOW DENSITY (LD) GUIDE PLAN DISCUSSION
DIRECTION TO BE CONSIDERED: To discuss and provide staff with direction regarding
the LD Guide Plan Designation.
FACTS:
- Issues have a risen over the past several months regarding the Comprehensive Guide
Plan's Low Density (0-4 units/acre) designation. The specific issues have included the
appropriateness of the density range and the provision that states that R-2 and R-3
residential uses may be appropriate in the Low Density areas.
- The density range has been discussed and information summarizing the intent and need
has been previously provided by City Planner Ridley.
- In regard to the provision that states that R-2 and R-3 residential uses may be appropriate
in the Low Density areas, the City Council brainstormed ideas at a retreat earlier this year
relative to when these attached residential uses would or should be considered
appropriate. These ideas and some background were summarized in a memo from
Community Development Director Hohenstein.
- As the Council and Commission know, mixing land use types requires Planned
Development zoning and Planned Development zoning inherently means that the
developer will provide a more creative and/or beneficial development. Because both the
Council and APC have had difficulty at times determining the specific benefits a
proposed PD offers, the City Council adopted ordinance requirements that call for the
applicant to submit a Site Plan that conforms to straight zoning (for each the land use
proposed). The intent of this change is to provide the Council and Commission a standard
of comparison.
- Additionally, the Council also adopted a requirement that the developer submit a narrative
that specifically describes how the City will benefit by granting the flexibility of PD zoning
(that would not be required of the development anyway). The intent of this requirement is
to put the onus on the developer to make the case to justify flexible standards.
- The APC has discussed both the LD density and mixed housing issue in a workshop setting.
The Commission has attained general consensus that the 0-4 density range is necessary for
the reasons outlined in the Ridley memo and concerns about unit type should be addressed
via modifications to the text of the Comprehensive Guide Plan, i.e. identifying qualifying
scenarios or conditions where attached housing and/or a density between 3 and 4 units/acre
would be entertained.
ATTACHMENTS: (3)
Comprehensive Guide Plan Figure 3.5 on pa e
Ridley in this regard is attached on pages ~ through
Hohenstein memo on pages (O through ~_.
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city of eagan
MEMO
TO: Jon Hobenstein, Community Development Director
FROM: Mike Ridley, City Planner
DATE: September 9, 2004
SUBJECT: Low Density Guide Plan Designation
Back rg ound
This memo is intended to summarize the effort and rationale that resulted in the modifications to
the residential portion of the 2000 Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The Eagan 2000
Comprehensive Plan was the first comprehensive update' of the Plan since the 1980's and the first
since the Legislature amended the Land Planning Act in the 1990's to require consistency between
municipal Zoning Maps and Comprehensive Land Use plans.
History
Prior to the most recent update, Eagan's residential land use designations were:
D-I Single Family Residential (0-3 units/acre) detached single family only
D-II Mixed Residential (0-6 units/acre) twin homes, townhomes
D-III Mixed Residential (6-12 units/acre) town homes
D-N Mixed Residential (12+ units/acre) apartments
The Eagan Comp Plan 2000 modified the residential designations to those listed below:
LD Low Density (0-4 units/acres)
MD Medium Density (4-12 units/acres)
HD High Density (12+ units/acres)
The intent of the LD category is stated to be "...primarily for single family detached housing units.
However, some attached housing (two-family units, townhomes) may be appropriate provided they
comply with the density restrictions and other applicable zoning regulations:' Similarly, the t-1r) _
arid. HD designations make atloti~ances f<~r a mittu.re of zoniaac classifications for the same pur{~ose;__ ..-- Formatted: underline
Rationale for Chance
The 2000 Comp Plan Update committee was made up of two members each from the City Council
and APC, consultant Greg Ingraham and staff. The update committee recommended modifying the
residential land use designations re~ardinr densities and unit types for several reasons:
- Prior to the 2000 update, the Land Use Map reflected aone-to-one relationship with the
Zoning Map. Essentially, each land use category corresponded directly to a distinct zoning
classification (residential and commercial/industrial). The one-to-one system was
determined to be too rigid because it typically required a Comprehensive Plan Amendment
in conjunction with each rezoning. As such, the land use categories were combined into
fewer categories, creating aone-to-many correlation between land use and zoning
categories.
- The committee determined that flexibility would be needed because virtually every future
residential development would be infill; and the bulk of those would also involve difficult
to develop property (i.e. slopes, woodlands, wetlands, etc.).
- The City needed to address many existing smaller older single-family detached lots (i.e.
McKee Addition, portions of Cedar Grove, etc.) that ran afoui of their D-I, 0-3 u/ac Guide
Plan designation (i.e. 1 acre = 43560 SF/10,000 SF lots = 4.35 u/ac). This also prompted
the creation of the Rl-S small lot single family zoning district so these smaller lots would
avoid being non-conforming*.
- Standard R-1 subdivisions, by definition, also exceeded the 0-3 u/ac density: (i.e. 43,560
SF/12,000 SF = 3.63 u/ac).
* The non-conforming portion of Chapter I1 does not allow the expansion of any non-
conforming use or building on anon-conforming parcel.
Summary/Conclusion
_ uestions sometimes arise about the; intent of the C:;om_prehensive Ciuide density dc,si{~nations,
E}ecause of the historic one-to-one relationship. It is important. tc} p.riadicallkdiscuss the rationale
fir the cun•ent approach to bc: cer4tin that decision makers and staff share a common understandins
of the intent ofthe standards.
The 2000 Comprehensive Plan Update deliberately included a look back and a look toward the
future. The one-to-many residential land use to zoning category change was introduced to address
existing non-conforming single family lot sizes and densities. T'he one-to-many approach also
looked forward and anticipated difficult development scenarios that would benefit from the
flexibility of clustering and/or small lot association-maintained residential development.
Please contact me if you have any questions or need further information
City of Ea~au ~cmo
TO: CHAIR HEYL AND MEMBERS OF THE ADVISORY PLANNING
COMMISSION
FROM: JON HOHENSTEIN, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
DATE: MAY 10, 2005
SUBJECT: LOW DENSITY COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE PLAN DESIGNATION -
CRTTERIA FOR CONSIDERATION OF "POTENTIALLY" COMPATIBLE
ZONING DESIGNATIONS
In order to assist with the work of the Commission in discussing the means differentiating between
zoning districts that are compatible with the LD Comprehensive Plan designation and those that are
potentially compatible, under Fig 3.5 Land Use/Zoning Consistency, this memo is intended to
summarize the discussion the City Council had at its retreat in January regarding this topic.
Steps Taken To Date
In partial response to concerns such as these, the City council has already adopted ordinance
requirements for applicants for planned developments to submit a site plan that conforms to straight
zoning for the land use designation for the development property, as a standard of comparison when
applicants suggest that their proposed development does not increase density, but is a more sensitive
use of a site.
The Council also adopted a requirement that the developer must submit a narrative description of
what the City will gain from granting the flexibility of PD zoning that would not be required of the
development anyway. For example, upgraded finishes or additional site amenities might be benefits
of a PD plan over a straight zoning plan, while things such as required connections of utilities,
provision of required ponding easements or fulfillment of parks dedications would not be unique to a
PD. This requires the developer to make the case to justify flexible standards, rather than requiring
the Commission and Council to divine them from the general narrative or site plan.
Though not perfect, these two steps have already allowed the Commission and Council to begin to
address comparative densities and require more explicit findings of community benefits from a
development. There may be need for further refinement of these tools as the City learns to use them,
but they put the onus on the applicant to prove their points more transparently.
Housing Type
Like the Commission, the Council wants to be better able to define ways to differentiate between
situations in which R-2 (Two Family) and R-3 (Townhomes) would be acceptable in the LD areas.
One concept that the Council discussed, that the Commission may wish to consider, was to list
criteria or standards that would have to be met in order to be compatible with the LD designation.
There is also a related, but somewhat separate, issue of density itself. As City Planner Ridley has
explained, there are a number of older, single family detached neighborhoods in Eagan that have
densities in excess of 3 units per acre and having the 0-4 density for LD helps reinforce their
l~J
neighborhood design without making the homes within them to be non-conforming, thereby
affecting people's abilities to reinvest and improve their homes. Therefore, we believe that, despite
perceived challenges in its application in some new developments, this approach respects the
integrity of a large number of older single family detached neighborhoods.
The Council brainstormed a series of potential criteria that might be considered to determine whether
R-2 or R-3 buildings would be permitted in the LD district. The list may be longer or shorter than
what the list developed at the time. It could also be organized along lines of minimum requirements,
performance standards, standards of comparison or some other description.
• Home Owners Associations or Other Means to Insure Common Treatment and
Maintenance of Exteriors -Uniform building finishes and color, organized refuse collection
and storage, common area maintenance, etc.
• Adequate On-Site and/or On-Street Parking - If parking requirements are to be met at
locations other than the driveways of individual units, some of the additional spaces need to
be proximate to all of the homes, to avoid having parking bays at one end or location of the
development and not convenient to many of the units.
• True Clustering of Units -Spacing clusters of no more than x units (Council suggestion was
4-6) to provide openings from front areas to back yards more frequently than is available for
long groups of row homes.
• Public Streets -While the City could still consider private streets, if the City deems it to be
appropriate, the baseline would be that all streets be public and meet requirements for cul-
de-sac design on dead ends rather than hammer heads or other substandard turn around
designs.
• Looped Streets and Connected Streets - To the extent possible the general design of the
neighborhood would have looped or connected designs, rather than function as a series of
dead-ends.
• Open Space Benefits -While the straight zoning comparison will likely define whether a
development proposal is actually clustering v. maximizing density, it may be appropriate to
set expectations for true public greens or shared activity space, rather than the frequent offer
to dedicate or set aside the wetlands and undevelopable areas as the primary green space.
This notion would need to pass muster with the City Attorney, since open space and parks
requirements are defined by statute and case law, and it would be important not to duplicate
or overstep with the work that the Parks Commission does.
• Wetland Mitigation On-Site -While there may be unique circumstances, like Steeplechase,
in which the existing wetlands are of such low quality that the best thing you can do is
replace them off-site, the general expectation of the Council that developers mitigate on-site
may also be a way of insuring that the different housing types truly make a better use of the
land.
~ Straight Zoning Setbacks -Again, while there may be situations in which the site sensitivity
trade offs support modified setbacks, the basis of comparison could still be straight zoning
standards.
• Density Credits - At a previous Council Retreat, the notion of density credits (carrot instead
of a stick) was also discussed. There may be some benefit to attempting to define desirable
attributes and permitting higher densities in exchange.
• Other Ideas and Approaches -The Council list is long, but not necessarily exhaustive. The
Commission and staff may identify other ways to address this matter that are as effective at
defining what would make particular housing types compatible within the LD districts.
Housing Density
Even so, some Councilmembers and Commission members have expressed a concern that densities
at 3-4 units per acre could be considered to be excessive in some LD districts. This concern may be
resolved in part if the Commission and Council come to a conclusion on the criteria that would
permit single family attached housing, because a straight R-1 zoned development under current
standards would be under 3 units per acre. On the other hand, the R-1S zoning district that was
created to respect the smaller lot sizes in the older neighborhoods, could be pursued to develop a
single family detached product at a density greater than R-1 itself would. If greater regulation of
density greater than 3 units per acre is a concern, regardless of housing type, then it may be necessary
to add R-1S to the list of zoning districts that are "potentially" compatible and apply the approach
determined to be appropriate for R-2 and R-3 to new developments for that zoning category as well.
Discussions of Other Land Use Desi ations
While the issue of potential compatibility has been discussed the most relative to the LD districts, it
is also present in all but three of the other Comp Plan Land Use Designations (half moons on Fig
3.5). While there is a need to close the loop on the LD districts, it may be instructive to the process
to think about an approach to decision making criteria that could be translated into decisions about
the compatibility of some other uses in other designations. At the very least, it will be important to
identify which of the other land use districts could result in specific decision making issues, such as
R-1 or R-4 in an NID zone or low intensity LB in a BP zone.
Agenda Memo
June 13, 2005 Special City Council Meeting
IV. NOISE ATTENUATION ORDINANCE
DIRECTION TO BE CONSIDERED: To receive an update and discuss steps for the
implementation of an airport noise attenuation construction ordinance.
FACTS:
A As part of the City's update of its Comprehensive Guide Plan Aviation Section, one of the
goals is to consider adoption of a noise attenuation construction ordinance to permit the
City to require noise attenuation construction techniques for buildings that may require
the additional improvements within the noise policy contours.
- While a larger number of land uses may be noise sensitive at the highest noise levels
close to the airport, noise compatibility issues in Eagan largely relate to residential uses
because of the distance between the developed azeas of the City and the airport because
of the river valleys. One of Eagan's first policies is to minimize the establishment of
noise sensitive uses in azeas in which the noise impacts aze the greatest.
- There aze circumstances, however, such as infill development in existing neighborhoods,
in which the addition of noise sensitive uses is justifiable. Where such development
requires land use approvals, such as a subdivision, the City has placed conditions on
those approvals to meet the noise attenuation standards in its Comprehensive Plan.
Where land use approvals are not necessary, as with previously platted lots or additions
to existing homes, the City currently can encourage, but not require, noise attenuation
construction techniques. An ordinance would permit the City to apply such standards to
new construction and additions.
- Staff has reviewed the Metropolitan Council model ordinance and the ordinance adopted
by the City of Mendota Heights as baselines for a possible ordinance for Eagan. The
general elements of the ordinance would be as follows:
^ Based on the noise policy contours, the ordinance would define which land uses are
noise compatible and require no additional noise attenuation and those which are
provisionally or conditionally compatible and require additional noise attenuation to
be acceptable within the zones.
^ The level of noise attenuation required would be determined depending upon the use
and the noise policy contour within which the construction is occurring.
^ The methods for achieving the noise attenuation levels would be reviewed by
protective inspections as part of the building permit review. In addition to the
Metropolitan Council Builders Guide for Noise Attenuation, architects familiar with
noise abatement techniques can certify that the designs and components of a
structure meet and exceed certain STC ratings.
9
- Tf the City Council and Planning Commission support this concept, staff is interested in
moving forward with consideration of such an ordinance in the third quarter of 2005.
This would permit the City to have an ordinance in place prior to the opening of the new
North-South Runway, which adds a number of established neighborhoods and potential
infill areas to the policy contours.
- At the present time, staff is discussing details of how a prospective ordinance for the City
would relate to the Metropolitan Council's document update process. The Met Council is
currently engaged in a revision of the Builder's Guide and will soon be doing an update
of its Transportation System Plan, of which the Aviation Plan is a part. While it may
require that the City consider an initial implementation under the current standazds and
builders' guide and a subsequent revision when these updates aze completed, staff
believes that infill and additions in the noise affected areas would not have solid
requirements in place for a period of time if we wait for the Met Council to complete its
work.
ATTACfIMENTS:
• Comprehensive Guide Plan Aviation Chapter on pages ~"~_
~~
06/09/2004
AIRPORTS AND AVIATION
INTRODUCTION
As a neighbor to Minneapolis - St. Paul (MSP) International Airport, the City of Eagan is
affected both positively and negatively by the airport. The City benefits by convenient access to
airport services while at the same time areas of the City are negatively affected by aircraft noise.
Significant changes are occurring at MSP that will impact Eagan. Anew runway will become
operational in 2005 that will spread aircraft noise over the southern portion of the City. The
existing runways will continue to have noise effects upon the northern portion of the City. Part
of the City's challenge is to maximize the benefits of its convenient location while minimizing
the aircraft noise effects.
The major benefit of the City's proximity to the airport is convenient access for it's residents and
business's to the services offered by MSP. It is less than a 20 minute trip from most areas of
Eagan to MSP. Business's such as Northwest Airlines, USPS Bulk Mail Facility and numerous
hotels decided to locate within Eagan in part due to the proximity to the airport
Aircraft noise is the negative aspect of being two-three miles from MSP. In 1998 approximately
245,000 aircraft landed or took off over Eagan. As a result, substantial areas of the city are
within a designated noise exposure zones. Aircraft noise is a nuisance to many people and the
amount of noise in certain areas affects how the land can be used and how buildings need to be
constructed to minimize negative impacts. For example, much of the northern half of Eagan is
affected by aircraft noise and new single family homes, churches, schools and other noise
sensitive uses are discouraged from being built in this area. If these uses are built they must be
constructed to provide greater than average noise reducing walls, windows and doors.
GOALS AND POLICIES
GOALS
To minimize the establishment of noise sensitive uses in areas where noise impacts are
greatest.
2. To the extent possible, mitigate noise impacts in areas where noise sensitive uses currently
exist, or can be anticipated, in noise impact zones.
3. To advocate airport-operating procedures that will minimize adverse impacts in Eagan's
noise sensitive areas, especially those areas that were established outside of areas where
operations and noise impacts were anticipated.
4. To implement an orderly transition from noise sensitive land uses to noise compatible ones
where appropriate, in consideration of all development factors for the area.
1 Based on Metropolitan Council's 1996 MSP Noise Policy Zones
06/09/2004
To minimize the establishment of physical structures that will interfere with aircraft
operations.
POLICIES
The City will generally discourage new residential development in areas most affected by
aircraft noise. This area is depicted by the current Metropolitan Council Noise Zones as
illustrated in Figure 5.1.
2. The City will consider in-fill residential development within the area described above on a
case by case basis. Where such in-fill development is permitted, it will only occur under
appropriate requirements respecting aircraft noise including sound attenuating construction
techniques and buyer notification of the noise environment.
3. The City of Eagan will consider a Noise Attenuation Construction ordinance that will apply
to all noise-sensitive areas within the Metropolitan Council Noise Zones.
4. Any additions, modifications or replacements of existing homes within the Noise Zones shall
use noise abatement designs and construction techniques to achieve an inside noise
attenuation level appropriate for its noise zone.
5. The City will encourage the maximization of noise mitigation programs for the benefits of its
residents.
6. The City will designate the Metropolitan Council Noise Policy Contours on its zoning and
comprehensive guide plan maps to inform current and prospective property owners of the
presence of potential noise impacts and the existence of regulations and performance
standards for those areas.
7. The City will continue its cooperative efforts with the Metropolitan Airports Commission,
the Pollution Control Agency and other governmental agencies to reduce adverse noise
impacts generated by air traffic.
8. The city will advocate for historic and prospective aircraft operating procedures that respect
the City's purposeful efforts to minimize noise sensitive uses in the Eagan-Mendota Heights
Corridor. The City will resist efforts by other agencies to introduce or modify operating
procedures so as to increase adverse impacts in noise sensitive areas of Eagan outside of the
Corridor.
9. The City will continue to encourage noise compatible commercial-industrial uses in the
northern portion of the City where the noise compatible Corridor has been established. The
City will consider redevelopment ofnoise-sensitive residential uses to noise compatible uses
in the Corridor in situations where other planning factors support such action.
2
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06/09/2004
10. The City does not anticipate a strategy of major redevelopment of the residential areas of
south and west Eagan that will experience additional over-flights from the proposed north-
south runway. This is due to the scale of residential development that has occurred in this
area to date and the presence of substantial areas of commercial and industrial land uses in
the northern portion of the City associated with historic air traffic patterns. The City will
apply appropriate performance standards to expansion or modification of uses, in-fill
development or redevelopment within the area.
11. The City will advocate for specific noise attenuation considerations for noise sensitive areas
in southwest Eagan, because neither the City nor its property owners could have anticipated
the over-flight impact from the new north-south runway.
12. The City will notify appropriate agencies of proposed construction or alterations that will
exceed height limitations in airport azeas as specified in Federal or State law.
ECONOMIC BENEFITS
According to a 1996 Report to the Public published by the Metropolitan Airports Commission,
the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is both directly and indirectly responsible for
113,000 jobs in the region and injects $5.5 billion a year into the regional economy.
For the City of Eagan, the benefit of being located in close proximity to the airport has helped
the City support a healthy and diverse business community, from corporate headquarters to
distribution companies to hotels and restaurants. The airport is a tremendous marketing tool for
bringing in new businesses and retaining those that have made Eagan their home.
AIRPORT/AIRCRAFT IMACTS
LAND USE
Different types of land use have varying degrees of sensitivity to aircraft noise. For example,
commercial-industrial uses are more compatible with aircraft noise than noise-sensitive
residential, churches and schools. Noise sensitivity varies among residential uses. Single family
homes have more exposed exterior walls and roof areas and rely more on the outdoor yard areas
than most multi-family housing. As such, single family homes are generally more affected by
aircraft noise than multi-family housing.
The northern portions of Eagan aze particularly affected by aircraft noise (See Figure 5.1 for a
location of the 1996 noise exposure areas). To avoid additional conflicts the City has guided
most of this area for commercial-industrial development and discouraged construction of new
single family residential homes and most multi-family homes in noise exposure areas.
In general, the Comprehensive Plan does not recommend construction of new single family
homes within the noise exposure areas, except on a case specific basis. Extraordinary sound
proofing should occur if new single family dwellings are constructed in noise exposure areas.
~~
06/09/2004
Construction ofmulti-family homes can occur, but they must be constructed to provide adequate
sound insulation to provide a quiet indoor environment. This can be accomplished by meeting
the Structure Performance Standards established by the Metropolitan Council's Aviation Chapter
of the Metropolitan Development Guide. For residential and educationaUmedical land uses,
interior sound levels may not exceed 45 dBA. An interior sound level of 50 dBA is required for
cultural, recreational, entertainment, office, commercial, and retail service uses. Table 5.1
outlines the Metropolitan Council's land use compatibility guidelines for development within
noise exposure areas.
NOISE EXPOSURE AND NOISE MITIGATION
There are existing residential uses within noise exposure zones. Aircraft
noise exposure is measured and mapped by the Metropolitan Airports
Commission (MAC). The noise exposure zones and accompanying mitigation programs
are subject to approval by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Noise exposure is measured on an annualized average weighting of day-night
noise levels measured in decibels (Ldn). Around MSP, the significant noise
exposure zones are mapped from Ldn 75 (highest) to Ldn 60 (lowest). Homes
within the 1996 Ldn 65 Noise Contour are eligible for the residential sound
insulation program offered by MAC. All currently eligible homes in Eagan
have been contacted for participation in the program, and have either had
the insulation modifications completed or declined to participate.
MAC is currently engaged in an update to the Part 150 Study which determines
the noise exposures and mitigation alternatives. This update is expected to
expand the eligible area for residential sound insulation to the 2007 Ldn 60
Noise Contour. The new Part 150 Study is not expected to be approved by the
FAA unti12005.
4
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06/09/2004
Table: 5.1 Metropolitan Council Airport Land-use Compatibility Guidelines
Land Use T es/Noise Ex ooure Zones
Land Use
Compatibility New Development Infill-Reconstruction or
Guidelines Major Redevelopment Additions to Existing Structures
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
Residential
Single/Multiplex with 1NCOZ INCO INCO COND COND COND COND COND
Individual Entrance
Multiplex/Apartment with INCO PROV PROV PROV COND PROV PROV PROV
Shared Entrance
Mobile Home INCO INCO 1NC0 COND COND COND COND COND
Educational and Medical
Schools, Churches, INCO INCO 1NC0 PROV COND COND COND PROV
Hospitals, Nursing Homes
Cultural, Entertainment,
Recreational
Indoor COND3 PROV PROV PROV COND PROV PROV PROV
Outdoor COND COND COND CNST COND COND COND CONST
Office, Commercial, Retail COND PROV PROV CNST PROV PROV PROV CNST
Services
Transportation-Passenger COND PROV PROV CNST COND PROV PROV CNST
Facilities
Transient Lodging 1NC0 PROV PROV PROV COND PROV PROV PROV
Other Medical, Health & COND PROV PROV CNST COND PROV PROV CNST
Educational Services
Other Services COND PROV PROV CNST COND PROV PROV CNST
Industrial,Communication, PROVO CNST CNST CNST CNST CNST CNST CNST
Utility
Agricultural Land, Water
Areas, Resource Extraction CNSTS CNST CNST CNST CNST CNST CNST CNST
Source: Metropolitan Council, Metropolitan Development Guide -Aviation, 12/96
z INCO means Inconsistent
a COND means Conditional
a PROV means Provisional
5 CNST means Consistent
a..J
06/09/2004
• Consistent: Land uses that are acceptable.
•Provisional: Land uses must comply with certain structured performance
standards to be acceptable according to MS 473.192 (Metropolitan
Area Aircraft Noise Attenuation Act).
• Conditional: Land uses that, in addition to meeting the structure performance
standards, may be identified as conditionally acceptable upon
review by the City Council. The City Council will review and
authorize conditional uses upon a finding that they comply with the
factors set forth in Table 5.2.
• Inconsistent: Land uses that are not acceptable even if acoustical treatment were
incorporated in the structure and outside uses were restricted.
5.2 Conditional Land Use Review Factors
1. S ecific nature of the ro osed use, includin extent of associated outdoor activities.
2. Relationship of proposed use to their planning considerations, including adjacent land use activities,
consistenc with overall com rehensive lannin and relation to other metro olitan s stems.
3. Fre uenc of ex osure of ro osed uses to aircraft overfli ht.
4. Location of proposed use relative to aircraft flight tracks and aircraft on-ground operating and
maintenance areas.
5. Location, site design and construction restrictions to be imposed on the proposed use by the
community with respect to reduction of exterior to interior noise transmissions, and shielding of
outdoor activities.
6. Method community will use to inform future occupants of proposed potential noise from aircraft
o erations.
7. Extent to which community restricts the building from having facilities for outdoor activities
associated with the use.
8. Distance of proposed use from existing or proposed runways, parallel taxiways, or engine run-up
areas.
6
06/09/2004
AIRPORT SAFETY
Safety zones are established within the MSP Airport Zoning District to ensure an unobstructed
flight path for departing and arriving aircraft. The safety zones extend off the ends of each
runway and impose height and use restrictions on properties and structures within them. Due to
the distance between the runways and the municipal borders of Eagan the safety zones do not
have a significant effect upon height of proposed structures in Eagan. The main concern is that
structures within safety zones do not exceed 200 feet in height. The City of Eagan is required to
notify MNDOT of any proposed structure in excess of 200 feet outside of individual airport
zoning districts to control potential obstructions in the region's general airspace.
AIRPORT EXPANSION
A significant expansion of MSP Airport is underway which will change flight patterns and noise
exposure in Eagan. Runway 17/35, also known as the North-South Runway is under
construction and is forecast to be in use in 2005.
The current runway configuration consists of two parallel runways (12/30 left and right) and one
cross wind runway (4-22). The two parallel runways are oriented in asoutheast-northwest
direction and landings and takeoffs from/to the southeast are generally over Eagan. The North-
South Runway is being built to the west of the parallel runways. This will allow independent
and simultaneous use of the north-south and the parallel runways.
A large number of flights using the North-South Runway will go over southwest Eagan. This
will expose additional residential neighborhoods to aircraft noise. Currently, these areas do not
receive significant aircraft noise. This exposure of additional existing neighborhoods is a serious
concern. The proposed flight departure tracks from the North-South Runway would spread noise
over much of the southern half of the city. The City will continue to work with the Metropolitan
Airports Commission (MAC) to revise the departure tracks to minimize the area affected by
noise and to establish additional noise mitigation measures. A major focus will be to get MAC
to use the increase in the amount of aircraft noise as a criteria for noise mitigation actions rather
than relying solely on the Ldn noise level.
INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS
Eagan Airport Relations Commission
The City of Eagan has an active Airport Relations Commission. The Commission is an
appointed advisory body of the Eagan City Council. The purpose of the Commission is to advise
and make recommendations to the City Council concerning aircraft noise and airport policy
issues which impact or have the potential to impact Eagan. As citizen volunteers, Commission
members provide valuable insight into public perceptions of these issues for the City Council,
City staff and community at large.
Currently the Eagan Airport Relations Commission is focusing on:
17
06/09/2004
1. Limiting departure tracks from the North-South runway to minimize noise exposure to
residential neighborhoods.
2. Convincing MAC to use the incremental increase in aircraft noise as a criteria for noise
mitigation eligibility.
3. Developing a public education program with MAC regarding the North-South Runway
and noise mitigation.
4. Reaffirming the use of the Eagan-Mendota Heights comdor to minimize
noise exposure in neighborhoods of north and northeast Eagan.
5. Understanding the impacts of ground-level, low frequency noise on the
community.
Metropolitan Aircraft Sound Abatement Council
The Metropolitan Aircraft Sound Abatement Council (MASAC) was established in 1969 as a
cooperative effort between the airport authority, airport users and the impacted communities to
mitigate the effects of airport noise. MASAC is tasked with studying airport noise issues and
making recommendations for the betterment of noise conditions to the MAC.
Metropolitan Council
The Metropolitan Council is the regional planning agency that has the legislative authority of
approving the MAC's Capital Improvements Plan budget. Metropolitan Council's role in the
evaluation of noise is to promulgate guidelines for the compatible use and development of land
in communities surrounding the airport and approve individual airport long-term comprehensive
plans.
Other Agencies
A number of other State agencies work with the MAC in either a cooperative and/or regulatory
capacity. The Minnesota Department of Transportation is involved in all construction projects
that will impact the traveling public, including runway construction and roadway improvements.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency works with MAC Environment Department on issues
such as noise and groundwater runoff. The Minnesota Environmental Quality Board has the
final authority in approving Environmental Impact Statements and other environmental
documents related to the MSP.
Community Groups
There are a number of community groups that are involved in airport-related activities.
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Minneapolis/St.Paul Noise Policy Areas Legend
Agenda Information Memo
June 15, 2005 Special City Council Meeting
V. 20/20 VISION -PARKS MASTER PLAN
FACTS:
• Meetings with the public, stakeholders group and plan direction committee have
been ongoing since November of 2004 to provide input and information for the
consultants to prepare for the completion of a 15 year strategic park system plan.
• The council and APrC previously reviewed several identified guiding principals
that would serve as a guide for the plan.
• Since the Council's last review additional information has been compiled leading
to some policies/recommendations for the Council to consider.
• The first draft of the Executive Summary is being included in the packet to
provide a broad overview of what the plan may contain. This draft will be
reviewed further by the plan direction committee and the stakeholders prior to the
Council's work session. This was intended to provide additional feedback in
preparation for the consultant's next draft of the document.
• The packet also contains the consultant's agenda for this meeting along with some
policy recommendations for which they will be seeking guidance from the
Council.
• It is the recommendation of the consultant that a discussion regarding green space
preservation options also be included in the overall 2020 Vision discussion with
the APrC.
• While the hope was to have the master plan completed by June, staff and the
consultants feel that more time will enable the City of Eagan to have a much
better instrument to guide the next 15 years. The consultant will be able to better
identify a completion date, however we would anticipate it will move into July.
ATTACHMENTS:
A copy of the draft Executive Summary and potential recommendations is
attached on page ~ '~
A copy of the consultant's agenda that will be covered by the stakeholders is
attached on pages 3~ ~ .
A copy of the o sultant's agenda and action recommendations is attached on
pages "'
City of Eagan Pazk Systems Plan Page ES -1
CEHP Draft Executive Summary
May 2005
City of Eagan
20/20 Vision for Parks, Recreation and Open space
Executive Summary
The City of Eagan
In 1970 how many of those ten thousand plus residents of Eagan imagined that within a space of
just over 30 years that the open fields of Eagan would be transformed into residential and
commercial development and that the number of their neighbors would increase six-fold to over
65,000? Projecting the future and creating a future for that vision is not an easy task, but the
City of Eagan has a number of significant advantages as it faces the future. Having transformed
from a township within Dakota County that reflected the rural character of the times to a second
ring of growth-city of the Twin Cities Metropolitan area, the City enters this next phase well
positioned to undertake the future.
Today Eagan has almost reached it limits of growth. While it is expected that additional
residential and commercial development will occur through planned development and
redevelopment, the City faces the administrative transition from rapid growth to stable delivery
of the services expected by the residents. Stability brings its own challenges. One of the more
significant is the challenge offine-tuning finite resources to the needs, interests and desired
outcomes of the residents.
Throughout the City's adopted Mission and Vision Statements are the words "quality,"
"effective," "efficient," and "value." It is through these adjectives that the City speaks to the
importance of
• Maintaining and enhancing the existing resources including professional staff, lands,
facilities, services and programs;
• Providing services that meet an increasingly diverse and demographically changing
population;
• Enhancing all aspects of the quality of life
• Protecting the environment;
• Enhancing the transportation systems; and
• Retaining a stable tax base
Draft
o~~
City of Eagan Park Systems Plan
CEHP Draft Executive Summary
May 2005
Page ES -2
The City through its management has earned the approval of the residents with a solid eight-
eightpercent rating city services as either an "excellent" or "good" value for the property taxes
paid (City of Eagan 2002 Residential Survey; Decision Resources Ltd.).
Parks and Recreation
While all departments in the City government have a role in meeting the City of Eagan's vision
statements and others not mentioned, the foregoing statements relate specifically to the role of
the Parks and Recreation Department. Eagan has done an exemplary job of planning and
developing its park resources to keep pace with the rapid population growth. An indication of
this success is reflected in the 2002 Residential Survey where sixty-eight and sixty-seven percent
of the households surveyed indicated they had visited the larger community parks and
neighborhood parks respectively. Even more impressive is the finding that ninety-six percent of
those that visited these parks rated them as "excellent" or "good."
Throughout the 2002 Residential Survey and in numerous public participation sessions
conducted as part of this plan, residents reflected a desire to maintain the existing resources,
approach new acquisitions or development cautiously and avoid increasing their property taxes,
if possible. Yet, it was also determined that they wished to
• protect and provide access to natural spaces,
• improve pedestrian and bicycle access to public spaces,
• enhance overall health of the community, and
• maintain a sense of community.
It is not possible for the Eagan Parks and Recreation Department to provide for all of the
residents' leisure needs and interests. Within the City of Eagan and surrounding areas there are a
number of other leisure service providers that represent the Federal, State, Regional and County
public sectors as well as other cities, non-profits, and private sectors. In total, these providers
offer lands, waters, parks, preserves, facilities, services and programs that comprise the primary
source of opportunities for residents' leisure needs. The existence of these providers does not
equate to an opportunity without the users awareness and access to the provider's resources.
Quality leisure opportunities for the residents of Eagan will be most effectively and efficiently
provided at the highest value if the Park and Recreation Department uses both City resources and
all resources in the community.
s ,i ~1
City of Eagan Pazk Systems Plan
CEHP Draft Executive Summary
May 2005
Page ES -3
To that end, the consultants propose that the overarching strategy for the Pazk and Recreation
Department is to:
Adopt the role of "Coordinator" (or leadership role) and assume responsibility for
ensuring that Eagan's residents have recreational opportunities to meet the human and
community needs of Eagan and the leisure interests of residents.
The dictionary defines a coordinator as "somebody responsible for organizing diverse parts of an
enterprise or groups into a coherent or efficient whole." The spectrum of leisure service
providers is certainly diverse and can benefit from coordination. The Department can enhance
resident value for their tax dollar by the following strategic actions.
• Maintain the existing park facilities in a sustainable manner to optimize the facilities
viability throughout its intended life cycle, extend the facilities lifecycle where feasible,
and minimize the cost over the economic life of the facilities.
• Identify opportunities to enhance the existing facilities in conjunction with other City
organizations that have an interest in improving the facilities.
• Continue to provide programs and services for the existing residents that enable them to
achieve a healthy, active lifestyle.
• Communicate with residents about programs and services that are available from other
providers in the City or Region.
• Recognize changing demographic and social trends in the community, and in conjunction
with other leisure service providers, offer relevant program and service opportunities to
meet the changing needs.
• Provide trails and alternative methods of transportation to make possible commutes,
recreational activity, and access to facilities by means other than private motor vehicles.
• Protect and, as feasible, increase open space and natural resources where clear value will
accrue to the residents of Eagan.
• Give consideration to partnering with interested parties for the development of new
unique and special facilities where either economic criteria or public demand warrants the
action.
• For existing undeveloped park spaces or those acquired through dedication of new
development provide appropriate facilities to meet the needs of the neighborhood and the
community.
Throughout the remainder of this document the Park System Plan Elements reflect these strategic
actions: Whether in the findings, analysis, guiding principles, or recommendations and actions
these themes are repeated. It is our intent that these actions will provide a cohesive focus for the
planning process over the next 15 years as the City of Eagan seeks its 20/20 Vision.
Draft
o
City of Eagan Park Systems Plan
CEHP Draft Executive Summary
May 2005
Key Trends
Page ES -4
Demographics
Current and projected demographics for the City suggest that: almost 30% (29.6%) of the
population is between the ages of 35 and 59; these individuals will be between 50 and 74 in
2020; almost 31% (30.9%) are non-family households; and 23% of householders live alone.
Societal trends
• Population is aging but the newly mature groups will not age in the same ways as older
Americans have previously;
• Increasing longevity and an overall more physically active group of older adults will
challenge elected and public oj~cials as well as Park and Recreation professionals;
• The population continues to become more diverse particularly among the younger
generations of Americans; potential of three "competing" cohort groups -the growing
(children), the goldening (older adults) and ethnic groups new to this country who do not
use parks and services in the same ways as white participants.
• The parks and recreation departments have surfaced the leaders in these challenges.
20/20 Vision Project Goals and Objectives
The Goal for the 20/20 Vision Project described in the RFP is to:
Complete a Park System Plan with Buff cient detail and clarity to guide future decisions for
acquisition, development and subsequent use of the various park sites.
The plan objectives include the following:
• Assessment of the current and projected, future profile of the City including
demographics and land use
• Evaluation of the current land, facility and open space standards, revision, as
necessary and application of the standards for current and projected populations to
determine needs
• An analysis of current trends and the impact of such trends and land and facility
recommendations upon the programs and services of the City
• Compare and contrast Eagan resources and practices with other second-ring cities in
the Twin Cities area
• Identify and justify opportunities for land acquisition and preservation
• Identify and justify facility enhancement and development
• Identify the resources needed to achieve optimal benefit from the park system for
present and future residents
Draft
°~~
City of Eagan Park Systems Plan
CEHP Draft Executive Summary
May 2005
Page ES -5
20/20 Vision Guiding Principles
The following broad categories of issues and challenges were consolidated from the insights
shared by participants at Stakeholder Meetings on November 16, 2004
• Preserving/Maintaining Green Space and Open Space
• Enhancing both Transportation and Passive Recreational Trail Systems
• Creating/Maintaining Healthy Community
• Serving a Demographically Changing Community
• Dealing with Finite Financial Resources
These categories were reinforced as the public provided input at numerous meetings and through
the opinion cards and a teen survey. As a result the following guiding principles were developed
to set the pazameters for the planning recommendations and actions.
Guiding Principle 1
Health and Well-being -Enable the residents of Eagan to pursue an active, healthy lifestyle by
providing resources and opportunities for physical and mental well-being.
Priorities Identified by Residents
• Enhance both transportation and passive recreational trail systems
• Create/maintain healthy community
• Provide active and passive recreation opportunities
• Provide natural surface, non-bituminous trails through the Eagan Core Greenway
• Provide for formal gazdens in Eagan
• Provide non-traditional ~ play and recreational opportunities for youth
Guidine Principle 2
Community Equity and Balance -Endow the residents of Eagan with desirable parks,
facilities, programs and services throughout the community.
Priorities Identified by Residents
• Enhance arts opportunities
• Modify facilities such as Cascade Bay Water Park to retain economic viability and
continue a~aeti~g servicing a wide range of residents
• Provide desirable facilities for reasonable fees and charges with public tax support, as
appropriate
• Deepen the sense of community through special events not necessarily linked to specific
holidays but rather celebrations of Eagan
~Pa~~
~~
City of Eagan Park Systems Plan
CEHP Draft Executive Summary
May 2005
Guiding Principle 3
Page ES -6
Open and Green Space -Enhance the residents of Eagan quality of life by providing open
natural and green spaces for aesthetic, environmental, water quality, recreational and educational
purposes
Priorities Identified by Residents
• Preserve/Maintain Green Space and Open Space
• Enhance both transportation and passive recreational trail systems
• Obtain high quality natural areas for the Eagan Core Greenway
• Acquire other significant resources as the opportunity presents itself
• Provide natural and cultural history interpretive programs
Guiding Principle 4
Demographic Equity -Ensure that all residents of Eagan have appropriate access to recreational
opportunities.
Priorities Identified by Residents
• Community Service activities that involve youth volunteer initiative with general adult
guidance
• SociaUintramural physical activities for teens not involved in organized or varsity sports
• Expanded health/recreational program opportunities for the growing segment of older
adults
• Indoor aquatic-related health opportunities available during daytime hours
• Seek more program and facility use partnerships with the private and non-profit sector of
the community to expand recreation opportunities for residents
Life long opportunities
Guiding Principle 5
Resource Optimization -When undertaking new capital projects and facility, service and
program enhancements investigate alternative funding and potential partnerships and
sponsorships.
Priorities Identified by Residents
• Seek alternate funding sources including partnerships
• Sustainability as a philosophy for facilities
• More involvement of private groups and communities in developing and maintaining the
wetlands and parks
• Support and partner with others to purchase and maintain existing and new parks and
green spaces
Draft
o~P
Recommendations and Actions
A. Administrative and Policy Recommendations and Actions
Table 1. A. Administrative and Policy Recommendations and Actions
Recommendations And Actions
A. 1 Fees and Pricing Polcv -Adopt guidelines for the Park and Recreations
Department and its enterprise and revenue components to optimize revenue
generations and service equity.
a. Classify Revenue Generating Services as a public good (tax supported), aquasi-public
ood tax subsidized , or a rivate ood financiall self-sufficient
b. Define the cost recove rcenta a for each a of service
c. Establish criteria for calculatin and settin fees
d. Ex licitly define staff flexibili to char a rices to res and to market conditions
A.Z Formal Partnership Agreements -Establish memoranda of Understanding
(MOU) between the City and major financial or facility use partners to clarify roles
and responsibilities
a. The City should proactively establish the criteria, conditions and process for long-term
use of Eagan facilities by potential partners and the use of non-city facilities for City
s onsored activities to streamline the artnerin rocess.
b. Require the athletic associations and similar facility users to submit, at minimum, annual
participation numbers so the City can update the participation standards and calculate
facili needs and trends for the Park Systems Plan Maintenance
c. Organizations that conduct programs on City facilities (athletics, camps, etc.) can be
construed as representing the City. Require partners using City facilities to submit
appropriate documentation to reduce the City's risk over activities in which they do not
exercise primary control Such documentation might include insurance certificates, policies
on back ound checks, code of conduct olicies and similar
d. It has become conunon for organizations such as athletic Associations to contribute
funds in support of amenities (lights, irrigation, batting cages etc.) on public fields. All
such contributions should be accompanied by an agreement specifying the parties
understandin of the ose and benefit derived from the contribution.
!1' -
.v ~ v~_a
o~~
Table 1. A. Administrative and Policy Recommendations and Actions (continued)
Recommendations And Actions
A. 3 Park Foundation -Many donors, foundations and other grant sources are
reluctant or simply do not make donations to governments. Investigate the feasibility
of establishing an independent Park Foundation to seek donations and grants that
can be used in support of the park capital projects.
a. Using the initiative of the Park System Plan's focus on parks, recreation and open space
needs in the City to form an exploratory committee to examine the feasibility of a park
foundation.
A.4. Park Dedication Ordinance -The city should examine the park dedication
criteria to determine if it should be updated to the existing standard.
a. The current park dedication ordinance stipulates that developers are required to provide
15 acres of park for each 1000 residents. The current park standard is slightly over 21
acres per 1000 population. Deternune the factors and rationale for retaining or changing
the re aired dedication.
_ ~ ,_:~
~~
B. Existing Facility Recommendations and Actions
Table 2. B. Existing Facility Recommendations and Actions
B.1. Cyclical Maintenance -Continue cyclical maintenance on the current schedule
a. R lace roofs eve 30 ears
b. Re lace Water heaters ev 15 years
c. Re lace Furnaces ev 15 to 25 ears
d. R lace Air Conditionin eve 10 to 15 ears
e. Re lace doors eve 25 ears
f. R lace c ets ev 10 ears
. Tennis Courts -fill cracks and recoat ev five ears. Refurbish as needed
h. Re lace or u ade la ounds eve 30 ears
i. Refurbish athletic fields eve 20 ears
'. Resurface hard courts eve 15 ears
k. U ade or re-lam Athletic field li htin eve 10 ears
I. Refurbish rinks every 15 years
m. Refurbish Shelters eve 15 ears
Note: Recurring cyclical costs include a 3.0% annual CPI in the estimate.
B.Z. Planned Upgrades -Carry out the specified upgrades for the ezisting parks.
a. Central Park - Pla ound Installation and site im rovements
b. Holz Farm - Farmstead u ades; Entrance Road; Park Develo ment;
c. Thresher fields -shelter; restroom; and trails
d. Northview - Tennis restrooms; s ectator nettin ;tennis court li htin
e. Carnelian li htin system u ade
f. Carlson Lake fishin Dock
. Bi Goat li htin u des
h. Tra Farm Sun shelter
i. Wescott Station Observation Deck
•. Bridle Rid a buildin ex ansion
B.3. Athletic Facilities Enhancements - Seek a minimum of 50% partnership or grant funding to
car out enhancements to athletic fields.
a. Lexin on-Diffle Athletic field Li tin
b. Ohmann soccer field li is
c. Thresher Fields soccer field li htin
d. Undesi ated field enhancements
e. Refri erated rink
B.4. Park Planning and Development Proiects -Consider the priority for planning and
develo went ro'ects in the content of other recommended ro'ects.
a. Rahn Park Master Plan; and ark develo ment
b. East side rink
c. Moonshine Park Develo ment
d. Various ro'ects includin s ra ond; 2 sun shelters; and small ro'ects
e. Section 11 ark develo ment
=r! UiF.
~~
C. Program and Service Recommendations and Actions
Table 3. C. Program and Service Recommendations and Actions
C.1 Prosram Balance -The City should monitor, evaluate and analyze program subjects and
offerings ensure a balanced approach to recreational opportunities that meet the diverse needs of
the residents
a. All programs have a life cycle. Ensure that programs are given adequate start-up time and that they are
evaluated for sin s that the need to be re-ever 'zed.
b. Include programs such as health fairs for seniors, natural history programs and similar that provide a
social ood but are not revenue enerators
c. Efforts should be made to engage leaders of ethnic groups as they gain a critical mass within the City to
lan for recreational ro am and service needs.
d. Fiscal constraints can lead to a focus on revenue producing programs and services. The city should
review ublic and rivate o ortunities to reduce the likelihood of du lication of services and ro ams.
e. Transportation to the Eagan Community Center and other public resources is a major issue for some
older adults and the under 16-age group. The City should seek ways and means of increasing access to the
Communi Center and other Ci facilities
C.2 Nature and History Programs -The City should foster increased opportunities for natural and
cultural history interpretation and slap development in outdoor activities to encourage life long
participation in those activities
a. Develop a partnership with Dakota County Park and Recreation Department by providing funds for a
half-time naturalist, to offer interpretive programs at Lebanon Hills and Patrick Eagan Park and other
arks s ecifically for Ea an residents.
b. Construct an environmental classroom for nature interpretation attached to or abutting the Art House in
Patrick Ea an Park and the 'ointly owned church azkin lot.
c. Minnesota has a rich tradition of exceptional wildlife artists and photographers; use the environmental
classroom to teach skills s ecific to outdoor arts and crafts.
d. Build a series of observation decks, shelters and board walks to make the park more accessible for
environmental learnin and nature observation and a reciation.
e. Develop a letter of understanding with Fort Snelling State Park to support opportunities for Eagan
residents in nature a reciation and environmental learnin
f. Develop a letter of understanding with the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge to support
0 ortunities for Ea an residents to maximize the use of this im ressive facili in Ea an's bac azd.
. Considerin a relationshi with Dod e Nature Center to brin in naturalists to Ea an Parks.
h. Detemune the cost effectiveness of purchasing a van or bus compazed to renting buses for programs off
site. Consider giving naming rights on the van for a fee like the Ice Arena ice resurfacing machine or local
dealershi s mi ht be willin to rovide a van for advertisin oses..
C.3 Arts and Culture -The City should encourage development of new or ezpanded visual and/or
performing arts opportunities for all age groups
a. The city's park and recreation department should enhance the art opportunities by reviewing the
parhlership relationship with the Eagan Art House to increase the capacity, as well as, the efficiency and
effectiveness of the or anization in deliverin communi art ro ams and services.
b. Su ort the raisin of rivate funds and ants to remodel the Art House
c. Improve the connection between the church parking lot and the Art House for use by the park and Art
House atrons
d. Explore the use of an environmental classroom in Patrick Eagan Park, if constructed, for expanded art
ro ammin o ortunities when not in use b environmental education ou s.
~~~,L{~
Table 3. C. Program and Service Recommendations and Actions (continued)
C.4 Year-round Swimming -The city should seek access to year-round swimming opportunities for
both daytime and evening use
a. At present, the City does not have a critical mass of residents who would use a swimming pool on a
year-round basis. As the population ages this will change. The City should consider a partnership with the
Inver Grove Heights Parks and Recreation Department to provide daytime use and programs for indoor
swimmin ool as art of the Ea an Communi Center.
b. Members of the ECC would be able to purchase guest punch cards and enroll in classes at the Inver
Grove Hei hts facili as a art of the membershi ro am.
C.5 Agins of the Poyulation -With the prospect of an increasing population over 55 years of age
the City should be alert to the need for more program and resources for this group?
a. The City should coordinate the formation of a senior alliance of senior service providers to enhance the
delive of Ieisure services to the senior o ulation of Ea an?
b. City programmers should experiment with adapted recreational activities that encourage the new older
adults to remain active and rovide o ortunities for social interaction
c. The new older adults place great emphasis on health. Program opportunities should emphasize the
health as ects of recreation and dail livin .
d. Self-directed clubs encompassing a wide variety of activities fit the new older adults sense of being in
control. The City should be alert for opportunities to provide space, equipment and materials support for
these low cost activities in the ublic, rivate and non- rofit sectors.
e. Intergenerational programming has a number of benefits for both older adults and youth. The City
should consider developing some intergenerational program traditions such as the "Senior Prom," "Adopt
a Grand arent" and similar.
C. 6 Teen Prosramming -The City should develop innovative programs and opportunities for the
significant numbers of teens that are not involved in organized activities.
a. Currently teens attending Eagan High School have no direct transportation access the ECC and Oasis
Teen Center after school. The City should seek ways and means of increasing teen access to the Eagan
Community Center for after school use.
b. The participation in organized sports drops significantly at age 13. The City should test a
Socialllntramural Athletic Program for non-varsity teens that offers a more loosely organized sports
program for teens not involved in organized or varsity sports. Options might include Coed and
nontraditional or ada ted orts with outh as team leaders or instructors.
c. The City should consider sponsoring community service activities that involve youth volunteers with
adult guidance. Activities might include projects like the Thresher Fields reclamation or surveys of park
facili utilization.
d. The teen survey indicated a high degree of interest in activities such as photography, music, computers,
arts and similar. The Oasis Teen Center should consider expanding services and programs into those
areas.
%~~s:
31
D. Open Space Recommendations and Actions
Table 4. D. Open Space Recommendations and Actions
D.1 Formalize the Eagan Core Greenway -The City should ezamine the feasibility of formalizing
the Eagan Core Greenway to provide protection for those natural and open spaces that provide
benefit to all of Eagan's residents.
a. Create and im lement a Core Greenway Plan for the Ci of Ea an
b. Consider an Environmental Overlay District that will be a part of the City of Eagan's Zoning Code
and sti ulate conditions for rotectin ve etation, oundwater and other natural resources.
c. List the requirements and incentives that will define the initiative and guide the future actions on
desi ated lands.
d. Define the ublic s aces to be included in the formall desi ated Core Greenwa .
e. Meet with homeowners whose land might be a candidate for the Greenway designation and discuss the
advanta es and disadvanta es of desi ation.
f. Avoid the negative appearance of a "taking" by only including those properties that are contiguous to
other eenwa -desi ated lands and are desi ated b a "willin "landowner.
D.2 Additional Ouen Space -The City should seek to obtain easements or additional parks and
open space lands over and above any future dedications of lands.
a. Consider the urchase of a roximatel 60 acres of Park and o ens ace lands or buffer easements.
b. Consider additional ac uisition for Holz Farm Park
c. Consider additional ac uisition for Windcrest Park
d. Consider Ac uisition for Moonshine Park
J ? µa _~i
E. Trails Recommendations and Actions
Table 5. E. Trails Recommendations and Actions
E.1 Create a designated trail system throughout the City of Eagan with planned connections to
other regional trails.
a. Maintain a citywide perspective. Focus on major roadway connections, and hiker-biker trails
that form the basic framework for the ci 'de trails stem.
b. Provide access. Trails should connect residential areas with commercial, community and
activi centers.
c. Bicycle parking facilities should be provided at all key destinations such as transit stations,
em 1o ment centers, sho in centers, libraries, communi centers, and civic buildin s.
d. Emphasize connectivity and continuity. Existing and proposed trails should be continuous
within and between existing and planned communities as well as with municipalities and
nei hborin 'urisdictions
e. Provide variety and balance. To the extent possible, ensure that various bicycling experience
levels aze met by developing a balanced system of shared use paths, bike lanes, and shared use
roadwa s
f. The City should try to connect pazk trails with the trail system. Trails scheduled for
develo went include Wanderin Walls, Windcrest and 10 connector trails.
E.2.Connection Acquisition - If links to complete trails cannot be found using existing roads
and rights-of-ways (ROW'S), the City should obtain Iands or easements to complete the trails.
These easements would be valuable in order to complete a safe, easy and convenient trails
network in the City.
a. Designate transportation bike trails in the street where appropriate -Bike trails are
frequently designated within street ROW's where there is sufficient space for both vehicles and
bikes to use the street safely.
b. Certain types of bikeways are generally more appropriate for certain types of roads.
• Shared use paths are more appropriate where there are fewer driveways and intersecting roads.
• Bike lanes are more appropriate in more urban areas where a defined space for bicyclists is
desired.
Shared roadways are appropriate where motor vehicle speeds and volumes are lower, where inadequate
right-of--way make bike lanes or a shared use path infeasible, or in more rural areas or areas where
adequate right of way exists for bike lanes on shoulders.
c. Negotiate with Ft. Snelling State park to determine if it is feasible to add a trail along the raikoad tracks
in northwest Ea an. The trail could feature observation sto sand similar facilities.
d. Develop partnerships with other entities such as the State, Metro Area Council and the County to tie
the Ea an trails System to wider networks.
~f'd ~~
Table 5. E. Trails Recommendations and Actions (continued)
E.3.Plan and budget for developing an informative and aesthetic signage system for the
Eagan trails.
a. For an effective trail system, signage is needed to inform riders of routes, mazk safe
intersection crossin sand iden ' trail routes within street ROW's
b. Motorists need to be notified of the potential presence of bicyclists at intersections and
locations where a ath crosses a major commercial drivewa or residential r'
c. Bicyclists need to be warned of possible conflicts with motor vehicles and pedestrians.
Therefore, all major, non-signalized intersections should be properly signed or marked to warn
bi clists to slow down or sto .
§ ~ <~ F
F. Unique Facility Recommendations and Actions
Table 6. F. Unique Facility Recommendations and Actions
F.1 The city should consider a variety of smaller projects and track the trends on others to
determine if they are viable future projects.
a. Cascade Bay Expansion -The City should facilitate a task force of users and residents to consider the
types of modifications for the Cascade Bay Water Park to continue to attract both new and existing
residents
b. SkateBike Park -The city's park and recreation department should explore a partnership agreement
with the YMCA or another non-profit to build and operate a first class skate park modeled after the
facility at Southdale YMCA.
c. Dog Park -The City's Park and Recreation Advisory Commission should advertise and recruit for
residents willing to serve on a Dog Park Committee to study the viability of a citizen operated off leash
area
d. Disc-golf - As a Teen Community Service Project the City should commission the Teen Center to
determine the priority and potential locations for building disc golf course(s). The teens would make
recommendations to the APrC.
e. Caponi Art Pazk -The city's park and recreation advisory commission should consider a feasibility
stud for a small erformance area at Ca oni Art Park.
f. Synthetic Turf and Bubble -The park and recreation department should continue to monitor the recent
trend of building of air supported structure with synthetic turf to determine the positive and negative
im act on Ea an outh and adult athletic ro ams
g. Formal Gardens -The city's park and recreation department should create a committee to recommend
wa s the Ci can foster otential azdens in Ea an
F.2 Civic Arena Upgrade -The city's park and recreation department should develop a capital
improvements plan to remodel the mezzanine level of the Civic Arena to enhance the usability and
expand the revenue stream of the facility by:
a. Moving an expanded pro shop to the existing concession stand; while maintaining a limited concession
menu on the street level
b. Moving the existing concession stand to the mezzanine level complete with glass enclosure for
ex ansion o ortunities
'~1~
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Table 6. F. Unique Facility Recommendations and Actions (continued)
F.3 Facility Partnership Agreements -The City should proactively manage its partnership
agreements with key long-term partners
a. The city's park and recreation department should support the continued partnership between the City
and the Caponi Art Park Board by:
• Calling a meeting each and every time there is a change of the top leadership of the City or the
Caponi Park Board (CPB) to review the Caponi Art Park Maintenance Agreement and the Joint
Powers Agreement for the site.
• Requiring a mandatory meeting between the City and the CPB every three years at a minimum
starting in 2008.
• Collaborating with the Caponi Art Park by listing the Park and general information (not specific
ro ams in the ci 's ark and recreation seasonal brochures.
b. The City should review and update its agreement with school districts to ensure it accurately reflects
current practices and understandings. Again, each time there is a change in the Athletic Director and/or
the Director of Parks and Recreation a meeting should be called to review the agreement for a seamless
transition.
c. The park and recreation department should formalize in writing the relationship with the Eagan Athletic
Association to maximize the fiscal and physical resources of the community in providing a team sports
opportunity and ensure that the original intent of the relationship is being honored.
G. Special Recommendations and Actions
Table 7. G. Special Recommendations and Actions
G.1 Restoration of Thresher Field -The Thresher Field Park is currently an underutilized public
property in the northeastern portion of the City of Eagan. The park is surrounded on three sides
by industrial development and consists of two large lakes surrounded by forest, a fill site currently
used as a play field, and in the southwest corner there is an open area that serves as part of the
recycling facility located on the adjacent property.
a. Desi and im lement a communi restoration ro'ect in the south west comer of the ark.
b. Project would include the restoration of soils, planting of indigenous vegetation, and educational
monitorin of the site as it ecolo 'call re enerates.
c. Project would be a community interest and effort and would be a pilot project for other potential
restoration efforts.
d. Educational programs should accompany the restoration relaying issues such as:
1. Water quality
2. Wildlife habitat creation and enhancement
3. Aesthetic values
e. Acquisition and restoration of the recycling facility to the east should be an overall goal for the
ro'ect.
f. If there is insufficient community interest in a restoration project, provide vegetative cover to reduce
erosion from the recycling facility into the stream, and provide parking for access to the community trail
g. The City should consider this site as a location for a dog park.
G.2 Section 16 -Develop this practically land-locked and steep-sided park for Passive Use
a. Develop passive recreational facilities within the park such as hiking trails, benches, picnic tables,
G.3 Patrick Eagan Park -The park should stay in its natural state with minimal development to
heighten the visitor's natural experience on the site
a. Locate and build unobtrusive and enclosed observation blinds for watching wildlife, photography and
artist's use.
b. Consider developing aobservation/study deck on one of the ponds where visitor's can observe the
a uatic life.
c. Use existin trails and monitor for ina ro riate vehicle use
G.4 Cedar Grove Redevelopment -Take such actions as appropriate to enhance the Cedar Grove
Redevelopment project
a. When the demographics of the residents' becomes apparent, undertake renovations and upgrades to
Woodhaven Park
b. Develop apedestrian/bike overpass over US 13 when the West section of Cedar Grove is being
develo ed
=:
u_%~~ a
Table 7. G. Special Recommendations and Actions (continued)
G.S. Northeast Eagan - If the northeast Eagan parcels are to be developed as low density
residential property the City should seek to retain the natural character of the land
a. Consider a 1 the same a of zonin solution as used to formalize the Ea an Core eenwa .
b. Negotiate for any lands that are determined to hold the greatest natural value as part of the park
dedication process. These lands would be retained in their natural condition with the possible addition of
trails and other assive uses.
G.6. Northeast Eagan - If the northeast Eagan parcels are to be developed as high-density
residential property the City should seek to develop an active park.
Active Park near Lone Oak and seek corporate sponsors and serve corporate employees
Table 8. Recommendations Funding Summary
Recpmmendation Category Total Possible
Dollars Average Annual
Dollars
A. Adnunistrative and Polic 0
B. Existin Facili 7,394,430 493,000
C. Pro am and Service 325,000 N/A
D. en S ace 6,550,000 437,000
E. Trails 1,960,000 131,000
F. Uni ue Facili 2,570,000 171,000
G. S ecial Areas 2,105,000 140,000
Totals $20,904,430 * 1,393 628 er ear
* City share approximately 60% $12,542,658 or an average of $836,177 per year.
G:\parks05\recommendations and actions rev 6 9 OS
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ZO/20 Vision Stakeholder Meeting,
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Outcomes:
• Affirm or Modify Guiding Principles
• Comment on Priorities related to Principles
• Areas, and Categories of Action Recommendations
• Comments, Clarifications, and Corrections
20/20 Vision Guiding Principles
Guiding Principle 1: Health and Well-being
Enable the residents of Eagan to pursue an active, healthy lifestyle by providing resources
and opportunities for physical and mental well-being.
Guiding Principle 2: Community Equity and Balance
Endow the residents of Eagan with desirable parks, facilities, programs and services
throughout the community.
Guiding Principle 3: Open and Green Space
Enhance the residents of Eagan quality of life by providing open natural and green
spaces for aesthetic, environmental, water quality, recreational and educational purposes
Guiding Principle 4: Demographic Equity
Ensure that all residents of Eagan have appropriate access to recreational opportunities.
Guiding Principle 5: Resource Optimization
When undertaking new capital projects and facility, service and program enhancements
investigate alternative funding and potential partnerships and sponsorships.
39
Priorities established by Principles and Identified by Participants
Guiding Principle 1: Health and Well-being
• Enhance both transportation and passive recreational trail systems
• Create/maintain healthy community
• Provide active and passive recreation opportunities
• Provide natural surface, non-bituminous trails through the Eagan Core Greenway
• Provide for formal gardens in Eagan
• Provide non-traditional sports opportunities for youth
Guiding Principle 2: Community Equity and Balance
• Enhance arts opportunities
Modify facilities such as Cascade Bay Water Park to retain economic viability
and continue attracting a wide range of residents
• Provide desirable facilities for reasonable fees and charges with public tax
support, as appropriate
• Deepen the sense of community through special events not necessarily linked to
specific holidays but rather celebrations of Eagan
Guiding Principle 3: Open and Green Space
• Preserve/Maintain Green Space and Open Space
• Enhance both transportation and passive recreational trail systems
• Obtain high quality natural areas for the Eagan Core Greenway
• Acquire other significant resources as the opportunity presents itself
• Provide natural and cultural history interpretive programs
Guiding Principle 4: Demographic
• Community Service activities that involve youth volunteer initiative with general
adult guidance
• SociaUintramural physical activities for teens not involved in organized or varsity
sports
• Expanded health/recreational program opportunities for the growing segment of
older adults
• Indoor aquatic-related health opportunities available during daytime hours
• Seek more program and facility use partnerships with the private and non-profit
sector of the community to expand recreation opportunities for residents
Guiding Principle 5: Resource Optimization
• Seek alternate funding sources including partnerships
• Sustainability as a philosophy for facilities
• More involvement of private groups and communities in developing and
maintaining the wetlands and parks
• Support and partner with others to purchase and maintain existing and new parks
and green spaces
Probable recommendations:
#1: Healthy Community Outcome -Health and wellbeing should play a central role in
the provision of services and programs to the community
#2: Program Balance -Program areas and offerings should be expanded to provide a
more balanced approach to recreational opportunities?
#3: Aging of the Population - With an increasing population over 55 years of age more
program efforts and resources should focus on providing services for this group
#4: Facilitate Program Opportunities and Partnerships -The City should seek more
program partnerships with the private and non-profit sector of the community to expand
recreation opportunities for residents?
#5: Increasing Population Diversity -Should the City Increase programs and services
for an increasingly diverse population Diversity of the Region?
#6: Fees and Charges -Should the City provide desirable facilities, programs and
services for reasonable fees and charges with public tax support?
#7: Cost Sharing -The city is reaching build-out and has provided for most of the basic
park and recreation facilities and services and should seek cost sharing for enhancements
from the user groups that will benefit most.
Action Recommendations fall into one of three usually distinct categories for each of
seven areas of recommendations.
Areas of Recommendations include
1. Administrative & Policy
2. Existing Facilities
3. Programs and Services
4. Open Space
5. Trails
6. Unique Facilities
7. Special Recommendations
41
Cate og ries:
• Fiduciary -entrusted with assets owned by another party (beneficiary), and is
responsible for investing the assets until they are turned over to the beneficiary.
• Public Good: charged with providing for those areas, facilities, and services that
enhance and contribute to the overall well-being of a community
• Quality of Life Enhancements: provide opportunities and access for areas,
facilities, and services that improve the quality of life for individuals or groups of
individuals through recreational and leisure pursuits
~~
20/20 Vision Update
Eagan City Council,
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Topics:
• Review Guiding Principles
• Policy Recommendations
• Comments, Clarifications, and Corrections
• FYI: Timetable and Information Background
20/20 Vision Guiding Principles
Guiding Principle 1: Health and Well-being -Enable the residents of Eagan to pursue
an active, healthy lifestyle by providing. resources and opportunities for physical and
mental well-being.
Guiding Principle 2: Community Equity and Balance -Endow the residents of Eagan
with desirable parks, facilities, programs and services throughout the community.
Guiding Principle 3: Open and Green Space - Enhance the residents of Eagan quality
of life by providing open natural and green spaces for aesthetic, environmental, water
quality, recreational and educational purposes
Guiding Principle 4: Demographic Equity- Ensure that all residents of Eagan have
appropriate access to recreational opportunities.
Guiding Principle 5: Resource Optimization -When undertaking new capital projects
and facility, service and program enhancements investigate alternative funding and
potential partnerships and sponsorships.
Action Recommendations:
The action recommendations that require the attention and approval from the Council
include the following:
A.1 Fees and Pricing Policy -Adopt guidelines for the Park and Recreation Department
and its enterprise and revenue components to optimize revenge generations and service
equity
A.3. Park Foundation -Many donors, foundations and other grants sources are reluctant
or simply do not make donations to governments. Investigate the feasibility of establishing
an independent Park Foundation to seek donations and grants that can be used in support
of the park capital projects.
A.4. Park Dedication Ordinance -The city should examine the park dedication criteria to
determine if it should be updated to the existing standard.
B.1. Cyclical Maintenance -Continue cyclical maintenance on the current schedule
C.1 Program Balance -The City should monitor, evaluate and analyze program subjects
and offerings ensure a balanced approach to recreational opportunities that meet the
diverse needs of the residents
Action e. Transportation to the Eagan Community Center and other public resources is a
major issue for some older adults and the under 16-age group. The City should seek ways
and means of increasing access to the Community Center and other City facilities
D.1 Formalize the Eagan Core Greenway -The City should examine the feasibility of
formalizing the Eagan Core Greenway to provide protection for those natural and open
spaces that provide benefit to all of Eagan's residents.
For Your Information:
Timetable Remaining: (1) Identify Commission Priorities; (2) Complete Plan Draft
of Issues, Impacts and recommendations; (3) Present Plan for Adoption
Guiding Principles were developed from information gathered from stakeholder
meetings, focus groups, and informal surveys from residents.