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03/08/1990 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission MEMORANDUM TO: ADVISORY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION DATE: MARCH 6, 1990 RE: COMMISSION MEETING - MARCH 8, 1990 The March 8th Agenda returns the Commission to much longer and lengthy meetings. The Carlson Lake Park Plan review and Wescott Station Park Plan review have the potential for lasting a significant amount of time due to differences of opinion regarding certain park elements. Former Commission member Sandy Masin, has been invited to receive an award, to recognize the contributions she has made to the Commission during her years on the Advisory Committee. Sandy has not been able to confirm her presence for the meeting at this time, due to her job commitments at the Minnesota State Legislature. There is one item on the Consent Agenda which involves the Gopher Eagan Industrial Park, Third Addition. OLD BUSINESS There are three items under "Old Business", the first one is on the Eagan Athletic Association's request for storage space. Staff has prepared a separate memorandum on this and also for the following item on water quality. The tree ordinance has been deferred to the April 5th, Advisory Commission meeting. Staff has had an opportunity to review with the City Council that section of the ordinance already approved by the Advisory Commission, and in concept form, the portion of the ordinance relating to new subdivisions. The Planning Department is still working on that section of the ordinance, and they hope to have it available to the Advisory Commission on April 5th. NEW BUSINESS The first two items under "New Business" are the review of the park plans mentioned earlier in the cover memorandum. At the close of the packet there are two memorandums on the park plans; the Commission is urged to review these two items. I- COMMISSION MEETING - MARCH 8, 1990 PAGE TWO Also under "New Business" is a request by Tri Land Development to review with the Advisory Commission an ice arena proposal that is currently being considered for Tax Increment Financing. Staff has requested the developer provide the Commission with any items that they wish to discuss. However, at the time of writing of this memorandum, those items had not been received. Item #4 refers to trails, and in particular the Dakota County Bicycle Trails Proposal for revisions. Staff has again prepared a separate memorandum pertaining to this item, and will provide additional background information for discussion with the Commission. This item is slated for the March 20th, City Council Agenda, as the County Board will be addressing at their first County Commission meeting in April. OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS There are several items under "Other Business and Reports" that staff would like to spend some time on. This includes the fees and charges survey of various communities on athletic facilities. Staff has placed this under this heading at this time, due to the lengthy agenda, and the potential for this item being deferred until April for discussion. I would also like to bring to your attention, the desire for a special meeting on March 19th, 5:00 P.M., for the purpose of reviewing the park design plans being prepared for Ohmann, Northview and Bridle Ridge Parks. If any of the Commission members have any questions pertaining to the agenda, or the packet items, please feel free to call for clarification or answers to your questions. Respectfully submitted, Ken Vraa Director of Parks & Recreation KV/bls z. AGENDA ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA Thursday, March 8, 1990 7:00 P.M. Eagan Municipal Center A. 7:00 P.M. Regular Meeting - Eagan Municipal Center B. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance C. Appreciation Presentation to Sandy Masin D. Approval of Agenda E. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of February 1, 1990 F. Consent Agenda (1) Gopher Eagan Industrial Park 3rd Addition G. Development Proposals H. Old Business (1) Update E.A.A. Storage (2) Water Quality (3) Tree Ordinance (Deferred to April 5, 1990) 1. New Business (1) Carlson Lake Park Plans (2) Wescott Station Park Plans (3) Tri-Land Ice Arena Proposal (4) Trails - County Bike Trails Proposal - Agreement Revisions J. Other Business and Reports (1) Department Happenings (2) Community Events (3) Survey: Fees and Charges, Athletic Facilities (4) Trends Report (5) Special Meeting to Review Park Building Design, March 19, 5:00 P.M. (6) Communication: Tour de Eagan NOTE: A REMINDER THAT THE RECREATION SUB-COMMITTEE WILL MEET AT 6:00 P.M. PRIOR TO THE COMMISSION MEETING. Subject to approval MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA FEBRUARY 1, 1990 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order at 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 1, 1990 with the following Commission Members present: George Kubik, Dick Carroll, Michele Swanson, Sandi Wensmann, Shawn Hunter and Ted Billy. Commission Members not present included Jack Johnson and Alternate John Griggs. Staff present included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Dorothy Peterson, Recreation Supervisor II; John VonDeLinde, Parks Superintendent; Steve Sullivan, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner; Shannon Willey, Planner I/Zoning Administrator and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary. City Administrator Tom Hedges was also present to swear in the new Commission Members. Director Vraa introduced Sandi Wensmann and Shawn Hunter as the new three- year term members of the Commission and John Griggs as the new one-year alternate member of the Commission. City Administrator Hedges conducted a swearing in ceremony for Sandi Wensmann and Shawn Hunter congratulating and welcoming them to the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission. Mr. Hedges commented that the Staff and Council appreciate the support and work this Commission has done in the past, particularly regarding environmental issues, and looks forward to a continued good working relationship. George Kubik stated that the Commission has appreciated the support given by Staff and the Council during the year and welcomed all the new Commission members. After describing the responsibilities for each office and explaining the voting procedure which included initialing ballots, Director Vraa opened nominations for the Chairperson. Shawn Hunter nominated and Dick Carroll seconded the nomination of George Kubik. George Kubik nominated and Ted Billy seconded the nomination of Dick Carroll. Ted Billy moved and Michele Swanson seconded the motion to close the nominations. Written ballots were submitted resulting in a tie vote of 3-3. Dick Carroll moved and Shawn Hunter seconded to cast a unanimous ballot for George Kubik for Chairperson. Ted Billy commented he would prefer to see the flip of a coin used to break the tie and since this seemed to be the consensus, Dick Carroll withdrew his motion. Ken Vraa conducted the coin toss, George Kubik called "heads" and Dick Carroll called "tails". The result was "heads" naming George Kubik as Chairperson. Director Vraa opened nominations for Vice-Chair. Michele Swanson nominated and Ted Billy seconded the nomination of Dick Carroll. George Kubik nominated and Dick Carroll seconded the nomination of Shawn Hunter. Ted Billy moved and Michele Swanson seconded the motion to close the nominations. Written ballots were submitted ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990 MEETING PAGE 2 again resulting in a 3-3 tie. A coin flip was done with Shawn Hunter calling "heads" and Dick Carroll calling "tails". The result was "tails" naming Dick Carroll as Vice-Chair. Director Vraa opened nominations for Secretary. Ted Billy nominated and Michele Swanson seconded the nomination of Shawn Hunter. Dick Carroll moved, George Kubik seconded with all members voting in favor to close the nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for Shawn Hunter. Director Vraa then turned the meeting over to Chairman Kubik for the appointment of members to the various standing subcommittees. Mr. Vraa noted that those subcommittees were Recreation, Development/Finance, Park Naming and Water Quality. Mr. Vraa commented that in the past Mr. Carroll has served on the Water Quality Subcommittee but questioned the need to appoint additional members to it. Perhaps it would be appropriate for Mr. Carroll to continue until the Task Force wraps up its work. George Kubik moved and Shawn Hunter seconded the motion to have Dick Carroll continue to serve on the Water Quality Subcommittee. Shawn Hunter also volunteered to serve on this subcommittee. George Kubik asked for volunteers to serve on the Recreation subcommittee. Those members volunteering included George Kubik as Chair, Ted Billy, Michele Swanson and Sandi Wensmann. Ken Vraa noted that Alternate John Griggs had expressed an interest in serving on this subcommittee also. Volunteers were sought for the Park Naming subcommittee which will be required to name two new parks in 1990. Dick Carroll offered to chair and George Kubik volunteered to serve on the subcommittee. Mr. Kubik noted that the Development/Finance subcommittee did not meet last year and that he would call upon members at large to serve on this subcommittee if it becomes necessary. Director Vraa noted that there may be some conflicts with Commission meetings in 1990. The first conflict is the March 1, 1990 meeting which could be changed to March 8 if the Commission chose. The second conflict was the July 5, 1990 meeting which could be changed to July 12th. After further discussion, Dick Carroll moved, Ted Billy seconded with all members voting in favor to change the March meeting to March 8, 1990 and the July meeting to July 12, 1990. AGENDA Shawn Hunter asked that Trails Dedication Policy be added under Old Business. Shawn Hunter moved, Dick Carroll seconded with all members voting in favor to approve the agenda as amended. • ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990 PAGE 3 MINUTES FROM JANUARY 4, 1990 George Kubik asked that Line 2, Paragraph 6, Page 8 of the minutes show that the "E" for Eagan Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission be capitalized. Dick Carroll moved, Michele Swanson seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes as amended. CONSENT AGENDA Shawn Hunter moved, Ted Billy seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend to the City Council approval of the following: WAIVER OF PLAT - ROBERT ENGSTROM COMPANIES. That the additional lot as a result of the Waiver of Plat be subject to a cash parks dedication. That the additional lot as a result of the waiver of plat be subject to a cash trailway dedication. JOSEPH CONNOLLY ADDITION Shannon Willey, Planning Aide I explained that this parcel is located with the northeast quadrant of Co. Rd. 31 and Co. Rd. 32. The continued growth of Eagan has necessitated the implementation of a second water treatment facility to serve the south portion of the city. This proposal located the water treatment plant south of the parkland facilities of Well Site Park. A small home that is on this property will need to be relocated and some mature trees will be lost with the improvement. Shannon noted that the proposed building will be similar to City Hall and will have a single service garage with 4 garage bays which will not be visible from either Pilot Knob or Cliff Road. Further, the building will look like a single story structure from Pilot Knob or Cliff with a landscape plan that includes a plaza, flagpole and water fountain. Steve Sullivan noted that the construction of the water treatment plant will not influence the operation of Well Site Park. The proposal indicates compatible layouts which provide no serious conflicts between the two uses. The only concern at this time is the possible loading of water or delivery of chemicals to the facility that places trucks and semi-trailers with park vehicular traffic. Steve reminded the Commission that this item was informational only and that he had reviewed the plans carefully to make sure the building would be compatible with the Well Site Park facilities. ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990 PAGE 4 George Kubik asked where the chlorine would be stored and Shannon Willey explained that storage would be internal only. She further stated that steps have been taken to create a pleasant look for this highly visible corner. EAGAN CENTER 5TH ADDITION Shannon Willey explained that this proposal requests the preliminary plat of two lots and eight outlots on approximately 45 acres. The parcel is part of the Lexington South Planned Development located in the southeast quadrant of Co. Rd. 30 and Co. Rd. 43. The proposal is for a 95,000 square foot retail mall and theatre, ice arena and a mixture of land uses, i.e. auto service station, car wash, fast food, gas station. The proponent is working on a TIF proposal and the site/concept plans have been submitted for approval. BRW and SCH have reviewed the traffic study and SCH is requiring more parking on site than what is being proposed. Ms. Willey further explained that the outlots would be served internally with no access directly to county roads. Steve Sullivan added that the conceptual plans were lacking detail but the proponent will be responsible for providing detailed plans for evaluation prior to final plat. Steve explained that the issues the Commission needs to evaluate include 1) What is the parks dedication obligation; 2) What is the trail dedication obligation; 3) What are the pedestrian circulation needs; 4) What is the water quality requirement and 5) Does the proposal meet the landscape policy requirement. Steve noted that greater pedestrian access was needed as a result of the P.D. Regarding parks dedication obligation, Steve noted that the parcel is within the Lexington South Planned Development and is subject to a park dedication according to the previously negotiated agreement for parks dedication. This should be cash. Regarding trails dedication obligation, the proposal will be subject to fulfilling the trail dedication obligation according to the adopted policy. The Comprehensive Trails System Plan indicated the need for a bituminous path along Co.Rd. 43 and 30. Also, a sidewalk is proposed along Lexington Pointe Parkway. Regarding pedestrian circulation needs, Steve noted that Cindy Gray, a transportation planner for S.E.H. Engineering had provided information for the Commission to review which depicts recommended interior sidewalk locations to accommodate pedestrian needs. Steve continued that these sidewalks go beyond the intent and obligation of the trails dedication policy. Staff recommendations are based on the developer's responsibilities in providing safe and efficient pedestrian circulation within this development. "1• ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990 MEETING PAGE 5 Regarding water quality Steve noted that the main water resource concern is the impact this development will have on the downstream water quality of McCarthy Lake and Fish Lake. The water quality analysis of the storm water runoff has not been completed but it will be done before the final plat. The development is required to limit the nutrient loading to the downstream water bodies to pre-development levels. George Kubik commented that the City should be especially sensitive to McCarthy and Fish Lakes so that the nutrient levels do not exceed pre-development levels. Steve explained that the concept landscape plan indicates parameter landscaping to screen all parking lots. It appears the proposal does not meet the 5% impervious surface requirement within the parking area. George Kubik expressed concern for the large impervious surface and suggested that guidance be given to add more islands and landscaping. Steve answered that this has been discussed with City Planner Jim Sturm and he will make sure the landscape policy is followed. Shawn Hunter commented that he supports the strong emphasis on landscaping so that the parking lot is not similar to that of the Target/Cub site on Cliff Road. After further discussion, Shawn Hunter moved, Dick Carroll seconded with all members voting in favor the recommend the following to the City Council: 1. That the proposal be subject to parks dedication according to the Lexington South Planned Development Agreement. ($1610/acre) 2. That the proposal be subject to a cash trail dedication. 3. That the developer install sidewalks within the development according to Figure #2 of the memorandum provided in the February packet. 4. That the proponent install an 8 foot bituminous path from Daniel Drive to Lexington Pointe Parkway. 5. That the proposal comply with water quality requirements. 6. That the proposal comply with landscape policy requirements. WATER QUALITY PLAN UPDATE Director Vraa explained that the Council was presented with the Water Quality Plan at a special meeting in January. Having spent 21h hours on this issue the Council was unable to address the Landscape Policy. John VonDeLinde explained that there was no memo in the packet for the Commission regarding this item but he wanted to bring them up to date on the most recent meeting. John noted that the final draft has been completed and BRA is well into the process of dovetailing the Storm Water Plan with the Water Quality Plan. ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990 MEETING PAGE 6 The review and planning process has taken approximately 3 years to get to this point and City Engineer Tom Colbert presented the Council with an overview of that process at their meeting on January 30. They focused on the priority section, capital improvement section, implementation strategy and education. After the program administration and overview were reviewed the Council did not take action. They were supportive of the plan philosophically but were concerned about the funding. The Task Force and Developers group will be meeting again to review the final draft and John indicated he would attempt to get copies for all Commission members to review. George Kubik congratulated all those who have worked so long and hard on this project and thanked them for a job well done. John VonDeLinde commented that the Clean Water Partnership Grant for $26,000 was approved by the City Council. The grant will be for Schwartz Lake with the diagnostic work to be completed by 1991 followed by implementation of a program to be completed by 1992. He also noted that the Storm Water Drainage Plan will be reviewed with Engineering and will go to the Council for approval. George Kubik stated that he had had several requests for information regarding lake protection and asked if staff had a supply available for the public to access. John VonDeLinde noted that he would get copies and have them available for people requesting this information. He also stated he would contact Mr. Hunter and Mr. Carroll regarding the next meeting for the Water Quality Plan. LANDSCAPE POLICY Mr. Vraa reiterated that the Council did not have an opportunity to review this policy at their last workshop but will be reviewing it at their February 13th meeting. It is expected the Council will give direction to the Commission at that time. DRAFT JOINT AGREEMENT - CITY OF EAGAN/SCHOOL DISTRICT 196 Director Vraa explained that he has met with Jerry Bertsch, Principal on Special Assignment for School District 196 regarding the joint development agreement for the school/park property previously acquired from the Willmus Family properties. The agreement in the packet for the Commission to review is similar to the previously completed agreement for Woodlands Elementary School/Mueller Farm Park. It is anticipated that after the Commission's review and the review by school district officials, the final draft will be presented to the City Council with the preliminary plat. q. ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990 MEETING PAGE 7 George Kubik suggested that on Page 2, under Paragraph III there be placed information regarding standards and criteria for the development of city equipment and design. After further discussion, Dick Carroll moved, Shawn Hunter seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the Draft Agreement as proposed. TRAIL DEDICATION POLICY Shawn Hunter asked what the status was of the Trail Dedication Policy that was recommended to the City Council. Mr. Vraa responded that the formal ratification was sent to the City Council and will be reviewed next Tuesday after which if will become effective immediately. EAA STORAGE Ken Vraa explained that the house that EAA is currently storing sports equipment in at Pilot Knob and Cliff Road will be moved to make way for the expansion of the water treatment facility. Because of the move, EAA is looking for a new location to store their equipment. Staff has looked at several options in considering this issue including relocating the existing structure to another site. After looking into this option it was determined that it would be cost prohibitive and perhaps consideration should be given to incorporating storage area with a park shelter building. The highest priority for EAA is to establish something that would be permanent. They are willing to pay for a building and originally were considering a 3 car garage building if the City could help with finding a location for such a building. The other requirements EAA has for a building are a minimum of 800 square feet, easily accessible and secure. George Kubik asked if there was a preference for a geographic location. Mr. Vraa responded that that was not a preference, rather permanence was the highest priority. Ken asked the Commission for any thoughts or ideas they may have for providing some assistance in this situation. George commented that consideration should be given to the visual impact to the park depending upon which park this building would be located. He suggested that perhaps an annex or addition to an existing or planned building to control the building parameters would be desireable. Michele Swanson suggested considering Rahn Park where a building could be incorporated with the existing Rahn shelter building. Dick Carroll suggested considering a pre-fab again similar to what is at Well Site Park. Ken Vraa also mentioned that EAA is open to volunteering to help with the actual work on the building in addition to paying for their portion of the building. /b ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990 MEETING PAGE 8 Sandi Wensmann asked how much EAA was planning on spending on a facility to provide their storage needs. Ken Vraa responded that they are looking for direction from the City for a location so that the exact type of building can be determined and costs can be estimated. After further discussion Ken Vraa suggested Ohmann Park may be a possibility or a free standing building at Rahn Park. Ted Billy suggested that if we were to add a new building at one of the parks perhaps extra footage can be added to that building for storage and consideration should be given to a building similar to Well Site. One of the suggestions staff presented included a building around the water tower at Diffley and Lexington. The timing for the water tower building would be fall, 1990 and the completion of a shelter building at Ohmann is scheduled for completion by summer, 1990. George Kubik directed staff to talk with EAA, prepare recommendations for 3 alternate sites to be discussed by the Commission at their March 8th meeting. TRAPP FARM PARK PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT Ken Vraa explained that he and Steve Sullivan had met with the president of Landscape Structures who is looking for a large site to install play equipment for the purpose of taking photographs to use in their 1991 equipment catalog. The company is suggesting that if Eagan's Trapp Farm Park is selected the cost of the playground equipment will be significantly reduced. Some of the concerns staff has expressed include 1)This is new equipment and some is still on the drawing board and has not been used in the past; 2) The proposal is for steel equipment but will be in a color to mitigate the look of steel; 3) Because this is a major playground structure there would be a need to draw from two product lines; 4) There are some constraints on timing and a need to match our schedule with theirs. The positive aspects include 1) Cost saving; 2) Collaborative approach to the design aspects where our staff would be working with their design team. Ken commented that staff recommended the necessity of bringing parents into this area, however they did not want to incorporate that aspect at this time. George Kubik commented that this was a very important issue. Ted Billy questioned the cost for this playground facility. Mr. Vraa responded by saying the playground equipment for this park was originally budgeted for $35,00 which is double what typical playground equipment costs. Ken noted that the company has talked about selling the equipment at an approximate 50% discount making the value of the equipment actually $60,000. rr. ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990 MEETING PAGE 9 After further discussion, George Kubik moved, Dick Carroll seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend that staff proceed with negotiations to go ahead with the process for providing playground equipment at Trapp Farm Park. Mr. Vraa commented that the Commission would see the final layout once it is completed for their approval. Michele Swanson suggested that there be consideration for two types of play structures to see if more creative aspects can be provided for older children as well. PARKS DEVELOPMENT Steve Sullivan stated that the first contract of the decade, 90-1 is for improvements to Carlson Lake Park and Wescott Station Park. To date the analysis has been completed for Carlson Lake Park and staff is working on a preferred plan which will come before the Commission in March. The analysis has been completed for Wescott Station Park and three concept alternatives are done and will be presented at a neighborhood meeting shortly. The analysis of Blackhawk Park has been planned to be a very careful and involved process to insure integrity of this park. Pat Jostad, a naturalist, has done an analysis of the park and City Forester Tom Schuster has done an inventory and evaluation of the site. The comprehensive analysis will be done and hopefully back before the Commission in March. The concept plans will ultimately be done once the analysis has been reviewed. Steve continued that Contract 90-2 is for the construction of park shelter buildings at Ohmann, Bridle Ridge, Northview Parks and a pavilion at Blackhawk Park. Currently the elevations have been done for Ohmann and Northview and are being reviewed. Staff has met with the architect on site at Blackhawk Park to look at possible locations for a pavilion. After another meeting more site specific plans will be done. George Kubik commented that judging from past work the Commission is looking forward to more good results. HAPPENINGS George Kubik commented on the 35 basketball coaches that were NYSCA certified by staff. He also asked Dorothy Peterson for an update on the Youth Connection she has been involved with. Dorothy explained that the Youth Connection Council's greatest concern has been to provide transportation to middle and high school students to activities and events. The students that serve on this council are very involved and a survey is being done of middle and high school students concerning transportation questions. 'z. ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990 MEETING PAGE 10 Mr. Kubik thanked the Eagan seniors for all their help in assembling the Parks and Recreation brochures which will be available to the public this spring. RESULTS OF SNOWMOBILING MEETING Ken Vraa brought the Commission up to date on the information/listening session that was conducted at the Municipal Center two weeks ago. Approximately 35 people attended sharing their concerns and input regarding snowmobiling in the City. Jeff Weldon, Administrative Intern will be doing the follow-up work and making a recommendation to the Commission and Council in March or April. Mr. Vraa commented that there was a wide variety of opinions shared over this issue including the feasibility of continuing snowmobiling within the City as well as requests to have trails provided. It appeared that most snowmobilers don't use their machines on city streets any longer, understanding the limitations and safety issues. It also appeared that the newer snowmobile users wanted trails to be provided for their use. CARLSON LAKE PARK UPDATE Ken Vraa explained that three concept plans have been shared with the neighborhood and there was not total agreement on any one plan therefore this should be an issue to be resolved at the March meeting. The Wescott Station Park residents will also be attending the March meeting regarding the plans for that park. WINTER WEEKEND Recreation Supervisor Dorothy Peterson reminded the Commission and public that the Winter Weekend was beginning on Friday, February 2 with a family skate at Well Site Park. As in past years, activities planned for the Winter Weekend focus on family involvement. Saturday, February 3 will provide a speedskating meet in the morning, ice fishing contest in the afternoon and the snow softball tournament all day. The snow broomball tournament will occur on Sunday, February 4. Unfortunately some of the other events that had been planned which required snow have had to be cancelled. Dorothy commented that she was looking forward to seeing Commission members at the Winter Weekend and invited the viewing audience to participate in the upcoming activities. 13. ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990 MEETING PAGE 11 COMMUNITY EVENTS Ken Vraa stated that John Griggs had asked to have this item added to the agenda however, since Mr. Griggs was not present this item will be postponed until the March meeting. Mr. Vraa stated that he is looking for an opportune time for the Council and Commission to meet to discuss issues that need to be addressed jointly. Ken stated that he was informed the City was close to an agreement on the acquisition of the Lillian McCarthy property. George Kubik commented on the brochures that are available for the public regarding shelters, tennis courts and trails within the City. He also commented on the cover of Park Maintenance and Grounds Maintenance magazine which featured Thomas Lake Pavilion. Mr. Kubik also suggested the possibility of considering a youth member of the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission. Possibly someone in the 15, 16 or 17 year old range. Dick Carroll commented that they could serve on the recreation subcommittee as well. It was noted that this is an idea that staff will investigate. With no further business to conduct, Dick Carroll moved, Shawn Hunter seconded with all members voting in favor to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 P.M. SECRETARY DATE MEMORANDUM TO: ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: STEPHEN SULLIVAN, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT/PARKS PLANNER DATE: MARCH 2, 1990 RE: CONSENT AGENDA - MARCH 8, 1990 1. PRELIMINARY PLAT - GOPHER EAGAN INDUSTRIAL PARK 3RD ADDITION An application by Gopher Smelting Company, Inc. requesting a Preliminary Plat for two lots on 7.5 Limited Industrial zoned areas. RECOMMENDATION: A. That this proposal has fulfilled it's parks dedication requirement according to the Gopher Eagan PD agreement. B. That this proposal be subject to a cash trailway dedication. SS:cm /5. MEMORANDUM TO: ADVISORY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION DATE: FEBRUARY 27, 1990 RE: UPDATE - EAGAN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION STORAGE BACKGROUND At the last Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission, Commission members were apprised of a request from the Eagan Athletic Association to help them find equipment storage space for their youth athletic programs. Alternatives were presented, and suggestions were received. ALTERNATIVES REVIEWED Several alternatives are still under consideration, and no final determination has been made. In a consultation with the department's architect, Dick Schwarz, it appears that Ohmann Park can no longer be considered given the small construction site for a shelter building. Therefore, this park is no longer included as a possibility. An alternative raised in subsequent meetings was the possibility of a basement beneath Bridle Ridge Park shelter building. This concept would have provided nearly 1,000 square feet of storage space, and at a reasonable cost. This idea was viable until the building department codes were checked, which required two (2) entrances and (2) exits from the basement space due to the fact that it exceeds the 300 foot, and is of a public nature. With the two entrances and exits demanded, it became too cost prohibitive. Still under consideration are the buildings at Rahn Park and Rahn Athletic Fields, as well as a separate storage facility at the water reservoir site. Still another concept is being reviewed. This would have a companion building constructed adjacent to the building planned at Northview. The buildings would have identical exteriors. These, then are the four alternatives being reviewed. SUMMARY Staff is working with the architectural firm of Schwarz/Weber on park sites and will be working with the Engineering Department to determine which alternative for storage by the Eagan Athletic Association best fits their needs, the needs of the parks and the cost. KV/bls 1~ MEMO TO: EAGAN ADVISORY PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: JOHN K. VONDELINDE, SUPERINTENDENT OF PARKS DATE: FEBRUARY 27, 1990 SUBJECT: SUB-COMMITTEE REVIEW/RECOMMENDATION ON WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT PLAN Back around At the February meeting of the Advisory Park and Recreation Commission a "Sub- Committee on Water Quality" was established to deal with issues pertaining to the Water Quality Management Plan and any subsequent actions requiring the input or review of the Commission. The members selected to serve on the Committee were Dick Carroll and Shawn Hunter, along with the Superintendent of Parks as staff liaison. At the direction of the Commission, the Committee met on February 20th to review and comment on the various chapters, proposals and policies contained within the plan. As Commission members will recall, a public hearing has been set to review the plan on March 22nd with the likelihood that the plan will be reviewed and adopted by the City Council at their meeting on April 3rd. In order to stay on schedule, and to precede the Public Hearing/City Council meeting, it was felt necessary that the Committee on Water Quality make a final recommendation to the Commission at their March 8th meeting. Review/Comment Based on their review, the Committee has concluded that the Water Quality Management Plan, as currently drafted, contains the necessary policies, goals, and recommendations to effectively preserve and enhance the water quality of the city's lakes, ponds, and wetlands. The Committee further concludes that the plan adequately addresses the needs for priority improvements and fully takes into consideration the goals for water based outdoor recreation in the community. In keeping with these observations, the Committee is recommending the approval and adoption of the Water Quality Management Plan by the Advisory Park and Recreation Commission. Further, the Committee strongly urges that the Commission recommend to the City Council the adoption and full implementation of the plan. Adoption by the City's respective committees, including the Eagan Water Quality Task Force and the Gun Club Lake Watershed Management Organization, is also suggested. ~1. EAGAN ADVISORY PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION PAGE 2. FEBRUARY 27, 1990 During their review the Committee also brought forward several good suggestions for improving the content of the plan (it should be pointed out that Mr. Carroll and Mr. Hunter did an excellent and thorough job in reviewing the document for its editorial shortcomings as well). Listed below are some of the major suggestions of the Committee, for further review and discussion by the Commission: Topic Page # Comments Executive Summary 5 Shawn Hunter felt very strongly about the need to expand the opening paragraphs of the Executive Summary to include the following information: 1. A summary of water quality degradation in the community as a result of land use change and development, 2. Creation of Water Quality Task Force in 1987 to address policies and recommendations for improving water quality, 3. A brief overview of the proposed implementation/improvement strategies, and 4. Identification of various potential revenue sources to carry-out program goals. Eagan Wetlands 24 Change the listing of lakes and ponds on Figure Figure # 1 #1 to include those that are commonly known in the community, i.e. strike Boesal, McDonough, Shanahan, and replace with Schwan, Carlson, Hay Lake, etc. Eagan Wetlands 24 Include a statement on the graph explaining the Figure #2 meaning of the data in "layman's" terms. Also, define TSI-SD and TSI-TP on the same figure. Requirements of New 36 Minnesota Statutes #462.358 is cited by reference Developments in the Water Quality Plan, on page 36. The Sub-Committee recommends including a copy of the statutes as an appendix or as an expanded notation in Chapter 4. 1$• EAGAN ADVISORY PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION PAGE 3. FEBRUARY 27, 1990 Topic Pic Pa , e # Comments Education 46 The Sub-Committee recommends adding another target audience to the "Education" chapter, entitled "City Council and Commissions." The primary intention of this would be to: 1. Provide the Council and Commissions with background information on the Water Quality Management Plan, Storm Water Drainage Plan, and other on- going water quality projects, such as the diagnostic/feasibility study for Schwan Lake, 2. Provide periodic updates relative to water quality monitoring, education programs, capital improvements and progress on meeting water quality goals, 3. To periodically conduct joint workshops aimed at enhancing the interaction of the City Council, Commissions, and other ad-hoc task forces involved with natural resources management. Financial Alternatives 95 Under the first "three" recommended water quality improvements, identify specifically which water bodies, wetlands and detention basins are being cited by the plan. At the bottom of the same page, under the "three year funding summary," expand on each category to identify what costs are included in each of the various programs and which lakes/ponds are being targeted for priority action. By providing more details of these various budgets the Sub- Committee felt that the City's policy makers would be in a better position to defend the rationale used in proposing these various activities. This essentially concludes the comments offered by the Sub-Committee on Water Quality. To the extent possible, the Committee suggests incorporation of the above comments and suggestions into the final draft of the Water Quality Management Plan. If the Commission agrees, a recommendation should be made to the Water Quality Task Force to consider l ADVISORY PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION PAGE 4. FEBRUARY 27, 1990 these comments. Obviously, the Task Force will need to decide on the degree to which these changes can be made in light of the time limitations imposed by the public hearing scheduled for March 22nd. If Commission members have any other comments or suggestions on the plan they should feel free to discuss them at the Commission meeting on March 8th. For Commission Action As outlined in the above discussion, the Sub-Committee on Water Quality suggests that the Advisory Park and Recreation Commission consider adoption of the following recommendations: 1. That the draft Eagan Water Quality Management Plan be approved and adopted by the Advisory Park and Recreation Commission. 2. That the Eagan Water Quality Task Force be encouraged to incorporate the comments and suggestions of the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission Sub- Committee on Water Quality prior to the preparation of the final draft of the Water Quality Management Plan. 3. That the Advisory Park and Recreation Commission recommend to the City Council, the Eagan Water Quality Task Force, and the Gun Club Lake Watershed Management Organization, the adoption of the Water Quality Management Plan, in its entirety, including all of the policies and recommendations contained within Chapter 4 of the plan. 4. at the findings of the Advisory Park and Recreation Commission be presented he public hearing on March 22nd; and that a Commission member be selected y t e Commission to make this presentation. f• Joh K. VonDeLinde Superintendent of Parks JKV/nab cc: Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation Za• MEMORANDUM TO: ADVISORY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION DATE: FEBRUARY 27, 1990 RE: CARLSON LAKE PARK PLANS BACKGROUND On January 29th, staff conducted its second neighborhood meeting with residents from the Carlson Lake Park area. The previous meeting was in May, 1989, which was conducted for the purpose of gathering input from the resident's in regards to the park needs. On January 29th, staff presented three concept alternative plans for review by the neighborhood. ISSUES In general, the neighborhood seemed agreeable to the plans provided. The emphasis was on keeping the park "low key" and "passive" with an absence of high use facilities such as ballfields. A general use open play area seemed an appropriate alternative. Trails within the park were agreeable, there was some discussion over the needs of a dock for children's fishing, and by the end of the meeting it was clear that the majority of the residents wished to provide this type of facility. Perhaps the single most important issue that was not resolved was the need for location of playground equipment. The residents immediately adjacent to the park were opposed to playground equipment. The rationale is that the playground equipment will create noise from the children. This noise is amplified by the bowled topographic character of the lake area. They feel the noise will echo and be a disturbance to the immediate neighborhood. There were several residents who spoke up in favor of the play equipment. Typically, these were residents who reside within the park service area and not adjacent to the lake. They felt the playground would service the many young children in the neighborhood. Those that were opposed to the play equipment pointed out the existing playground at Oak Chase Park. Some residents explained that this equipment was small, far from their homes and that the crossing of Wilderness Run Road was a safety concern. The Advisory Commission will have to make a determination on the appropriateness of playground equipment for this particular park. Z~. PAGE TWO FEBRUARY 27, 1990 Another issue for the Advisory Commission is the question of a trail going east from the entrance of the park. Staff had proposed a trail that simply "dead-ended". At the time of acquisition of this park property in the 1970's, an easement was not obtained from one lot for the extension of this trail to the east side of the park. One lot remains which precludes this from happening. There was concern that since there no longer appeared to be an opportunity for the trail to connect to the east side of the park on East Balsam, this segment of the trail should simply be omitted from the park plan. The last remaining item refers to the placement of the hardcourt within the park. Currently the hardcourt is provided near the lift station that services Carlson Lake. Staff has proposed that this be screened and that the hardcourt be placed elsewhere in the park. Several mentioned that it seemed acceptable to leave the court where it was, although staff feels that its relocation would be more appropriate. OTHER ITEMS One issue to discuss is that of a sliding hill. It was mentioned that children had been using the rear yards of homes to the south for winter sliding activities (at least when snow provided that opportunity). Staff had suggested that plant material be put along the property lines. This would discourage sledding, but delineate the park boundary and provide privacy to the adjacent residents. DISCUSSION The single most difficult issue for the Advisory Commission will be that of the playground equipment. One perspective is that all neighborhood parks have playground equipment and placement within a reasonable proximity to their homes; this is something the department has always attempted to do. Clearly, those that are opposed to the equipment are those that are closest to it. Those that are farther away are those that most favor it. Staff was somewhat surprised that there weren't more people at the neighborhood meeting asking for playground equipment considering that over the years those are the questions and comments that have been directed to the department! Some people may just assume that play equipment is going to be installed. The issues for the Advisory Commission are the views expressed by those next to the park, and do they reflect the views of all of the neighborhood or represent simply their views because they do not wish to see playground equipment next to their homes? Are they accurate when they say there are not enough children to warrant putting in play equipment? Clearly, this is a subjective issue. 0 PAGE THREE FEBRUARY 27, 1990 Staff has prepared a plan which shows the playground equipment within the park; this will help illustrate what might be provided for the play area. I would also like to remind the Commission that this park has not been identified as having a "full" playground, such as has been installed at Walnut Hill, Ridgecliff, or other large neighborhood parks. Rather, this is to be a partial equipment module due to the probable lower use that is expected at this location. FOR COMMISSION ACTION The Commission should review the park concept plans with a recommendation or adoption of a master park plan for Carlson Lake Park, in order that construction documents can be prepared. Also, to recommend the inclusion of a playground at this specific park, or to omit the play equipment from the park design. KV/bls 2 MEMORANDUM TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION DATE: FEBRUARY 27, 1990 RE: WESCOTT STATION PARK - MASTER PLAN BACKGROUND Staff has had two neighborhood meetings, one in June, 1989, and most recently on February 7th, 1990, to review concept park plans for Wescott Station Park. The residents had also called a meeting of their own to discuss amongst themselves plans for the park. On February 7th, staff presented to the neighborhood three concept plans for review and discussion. At the conclusion of that meeting, there was a general consensus that Plan A was the preferred plan, but with a few changes. There was one issue that was not resolved. Staff has prepared a new concept plan which recognizes the changes suggested at that neighborhood meeting. ISSUES Plan A separates the two play fields, sledding hill, bituminous trails, hardcourt, games area, and sun shelter. The plan provides for the establishment of a prairie area to the east and an observation area. The plan also shows an entrance road and a twelve car parking lot off of Ridgewood Drive. This parking space is perhaps the most controversial aspect of the parks plan. Residents immediately adjacent to the entrance road and parking lot are opposed to this element. Others members of the neighborhood preferred the parking area, realizing that without the parking lot residents would be parking on the street with the potential for blocking driveways, etc. Staff has explained to the neighborhood residents that cars will be coming to the park, to think otherwise was just not realistic. We explained to the residents that if parking was not provided, people would be parking in front of their houses on the street. Due to the limited number of stalls provided, there may still be times when people will find the need to park on the street. The Commission may or may not be aware that staff have received complaints from the neighborhood at Ridgecliff, Quarry and at one time Carnelian, where the park does have parking lots; the lots there are too small at times and people do park on the streets. This occasionally upsets neighbors. WESCOTT STATION - MASTER PLAN PAGE TWO The Commission will have to make a final determination on which way to proceed. An alternative has been suggested by neighbors that the parking lot could wait until it is determined if it is actually needed. That need would then be based on some type of a "benchmark" of what the need is - and how is it identified. The cost of putting in a parking lot after the construction of the park is obviously going to be more expensive. How much more expensive is conjecture, it could range from 10% to 40%. Staff is not able to provide you an accurate estimate at this time, because this is in a preliminary stage. NEIGHBORS MEETING On Tuesday, February 27, Stephen Sullivan and the Director met in the home of Mr. Richard Jangula, along with the residents immediately bordering the entrance to the park, and those directly across the street. (The Jangula home is immediately to the right of the park entrance). The purpose of the meeting was to review some of the particulars of what the parking lot (if approved) might look like, the amount of screening, etc. The residents also expressed their concerns for having a lot. (Note: Staff suggested they write a letter which might be included in the packet - the timing in the writing of this memo precedes the receipt of any letter). Generally, the residents are concerned about the need for the parking lot, and whether there will be sufficient traffic generated to warrant a parking lot. A perceived devaluation of home values as a result of the parking lot was also expressed. The spoiling of views from the homes as they look out across the park to view only a parking lot. Cleanliness of the area was a consideration; residents felt there might be debris as a result of having the lot. Residents also stated that they had been told by realtors and builders alike that this was to be a nature park, and that there would not be any parking lots, only trails. This, they were told was verified by people at City Hall. They understood, and are willing to have cars parked in the street, rather than have a parking lot. 2' WESCOTT STATION MASTER PLAN PAGE THREE DISCUSSION Not all of the Eagan parks have parking lots, the omission of a parking lot from this park would not be a first. However, parks without parking lots are all smaller and do not provide the park amenities that this thirty plus (30+) acre park provides. There are dozens of examples of parks with and without parking lots, some with lots that are as close to homes as this and perhaps closer. There are equally as many examples of parks that don't. Clearly, there will be cars that will be coming to this park, and will need a place to park. The issue is where is the best place for the cars, and more importantly, the people who are coming to the park. The valuation is somewhat subjective, whether the addition of a parking lot "reduces home values" is very difficult to ascertain. Every home buyer has a different set of values. Several years ago the people next to Rahn Athletic field said nearly the same thing about the development of the fields behind their homes. Yet, one new home owner said he bought the house because of the fields, and didn't want the planned plant material for screening put in to block his view of the fields. Parking lots and fields are not really the same issue, so the devaluation is left for the Commission to determine. Wescott has never been envisioned as a "nature center". Although, it certainly has a theme which has emphasized the passive element and preservation of the original site. Perhaps, this is what some individuals interpret what a nature center is. However, Eagan has always been spoken of as Eagan Nature Center, just as Richfield is noted for Woodlands and St. Louis Park for Westwood Hills. This department has had individuals relate that the park would also be "active" - planned with tennis courts, ballfield, skating rink, etc. Clearly, there has been a great deal of information that has been provided residents that has not been based on an approved master plan. OTHER ISSUES There are other issues, although not as significant as the parking lot issues. One of the issues pertains to a proposed road access off of Elrene. Several residents, at the first planning meeting had suggested that a roadway be developed from Elrene, rather than utilizing the existing entrance. Staff did a preliminary investigation with the Engineering Department on this after realizing the amount of destruction to the wooded area, in addition to the cost, and this became a prohibitive alternative. Therefore, it has been dismissed from further consideration. WESCOTT STATION PAGE FOUR The second issue relates to the potential for a skating rink. Staff's plans had not provided for winter skating opportunities and there has been some desire expressed for that. A skating rink could be provided for (perhaps on the aglime infield) should the Commission decide at the conclusion of its Parks Systems Plan Study that a skating rink is an appropriate item at this location. The last issue is on tennis courts. At the initial neighborhood meeting there were numerous requests for a tennis court - either one or two, lit or unlit. None of the plans that staff had prepared recognizes a tennis court. There were a few comments at the neighborhood meeting concerning the tennis court and why one wasn't shown. Staff has responded that there are eleven (11) tennis courts at Northview, all within a reasonable distance. If the neighborhood had wanted to develop more of a passive park, an inclusion of two tennis courts would have intensified the development of that park. This would have led to additional parking requirements. Staff has had two additional contacts made regarding tennis courts. COST ESTIMATES Staff is currently preparing cost estimates for the development of this park. At this time, there is no reason to believe that the estimates will be exceptional; they should fall within budget range for construction. SITE VISIT Commission members who are not familiar with Wescott Station, may want to visit the park prior to the meeting to acquaint themselves with the access point and surroundings. FOR COMMISSION ACTION After review of the three previously prepared concept plans and a newly developed concept plan for the park, to approve a master plan - making a recommendation for the inclusion of a parking lot or a deletion of the parking lot. The Commission may also wish to consider the omission of a parking lot to be considered at some time in the future, and to determine if a need exists. KV/bls MEMORANDUM TO: ADVISORY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION DATE: FEBRUARY 26, 1990 RE: TRAILS - DAKOTA COUNTY TRAILS PROPOSALIAGREEMENT REVISIONS BACKGROUND In 1982, the Dakota County Board of Commissions, approved a "Dakota County Trails Plan" for the County. This plan was prepared in cooperation with local communities in the County to ensure an overall bike transportation system. Agreements between the County and the City were prepared and signed by the City of Eagan, which outlines responsibilities for construction and maintenance. Essentially, the City is responsible for maintenance of the trails system once it is completed. Construction costs are paid in part by the Cities (45%) where the trails are on shoulders, and the County pays for 100% of off road trails. (See attachment for the maintenance agreement with the County). Recently, staff received a memorandum from the Dakota County Planning and Program Management Department. At the direction of the County Board, County staff was asked to review it with the Cities' for possible changes in the County's funding formula, and the Joint Powers Agreement for bikeways in the County. (See Attachment). Staff's understanding is that the County Board now feels that a change in the funding formula for construction of trails, should be reviewed. Apparently, members of the Board feel that off-road trails may not be necessary; only trails on the shoulders of roadways, which are less expensive to build, are all that are necessary. The Board has heard from "sophisticated" bike riders that do not like off-road trails, but prefer paved shoulders. These sophisticated bikers do not like the separated trails because they often have to go over curbs at intersections, causing blown tires. Consequently, the Board is now considering this option. Recently, Directors of the various Parks and Recreation Departments from communities within Dakota County have met with County staff to discuss and review the issues relative to the Board's proposal. County Commissioner, Don Chapdelaine, met with the Director of Parks and Recreation on Monday, March 5th, to share thoughts about the Trails Plan. Mr. Chapdelaine expressed that he had not yet made up his mind on the issue and was interested in hearing the various Cities' reaction and concerns. 2 PAGE TWO FEBRUARY 27, 1990 DISCUSSION It appears that the County Board views the off-road trails as community trails, servicing only local needs of citizens. The "sophisticated" bicyclists want trails on roads to be able to travel rapidly between communities, and the County feels that's what they should be provided with and be paying for. Area Directors of Parks & Recreation feel that the separate trail is the preferred trail by the majority of the bike users. Families, who are not "road savvy" much prefer the off road trails, and are not likely to use the paved shoulders. Thus, the paved shoulder only services those bicyclists who are accomplished bikers, not all bicyclists. Obviously, there is a difference in perspective on who uses trails and how they are to be used, this tends to be the largest difference between County and local communities. The County Board has stated that they do not see the trails being utilized as they had expected. Directors, on the other hand, point out that the trails system is just now coming together, and that their assertions are pre-mature and do not reflect what local surveys and first hand observations indicate. One objection to the change is that it's "mid-stream"; communities may not be able to come up with funds for a change in the formula which requires them to pay for additional trail costs. Further, there is an issue of fairness to those who have not had trails installed versus those having trails completed. Director's also felt that it's pre-mature to begin changing the plan and the funding formula until a thorough review has been done. The original formula was beneficial to all - the residents of the County and the residents in the Cities. Why change what was negotiated a few short years ago and was done with a give-and-take on both sides? Finally, Director's don't want to see the funding formula determine where the trails go. The concerns should be for the safe transportation of all bicyclists. Staff standards, along with traffic volume, should determine where trails go. Given that the County Plan does not differentiate between rural roads and urban roads, there may be justification to have shoulder trails in less traffic and lesser population areas, retain the off-road policy in urban, heavy traffic roads. 2 PAGE THREE FEBRUARY 27, 1990 OPTIONS The Advisory Commission following a review of the current funding formula, shall provide direction to the City Council and Staff on this issue. The following is a brief review of all the alternatives that the County planning staff and area directors have reviewed, based on the two (2) County proposals, mentioned in the attached memorandums. This chart represents the City/County share for each of the three (3) costs items: the shoulders, off- road trails and maintenance costs. POSSIBLE ALTERNATIVES FOR TRAILS COST SHARING BETWEEN CITY AND COUNTY County/City Shoulders Off-Road Maintenance Present 55/45 100/0 0/100 la 100/0 0/100 0/100 lb 55/45 0/100 0/100 2a 100/0 55/45 100/0 2b 55/45 55/45 100/0 2c 100/0 55/45 55/45 2d 55/45 55/45 55/45 Cost share on set amount per lineal mile PAGE FOUR FEBRUARY 27, 1990 Staff is unclear if it was the County's intention to have a new agreement cover previous trails construction or not. We assume the current agreement covers all trails that have been constructed from 1982 to 1989; current City agreements stipulate that the City maintains those trails; this would remain in affect, however there is a chance that the intention was to have a new agreement cover all the trails that were built prior to 1990 and any new trails. In other words, if a new agreement is subsequently developed which covers maintenance with the County, does that now cover trails constructed prior to 1990, or only new trails? FOR COMMISSION ACTION Staff is seeking direction from the Advisory Commission on the alternatives presented for discussion with the County Staff and County Board. This item will appear, along with the Commission's recommendation, at the March 20, 1990, Council meeting. I expect that this will then go to-the County Board in April. KV/bls 3~ MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT FOR SEPARATED COUNTY BIKE PATHS BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF DAKOTA AND THE CITY OF THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered into this day of 19 , by and between the County of Dakota, hereinafter referred to as the "County", and the City of hereinafter referred to as the "City". WITNESSETH: WHEREAS, the parties desire to enter into an Agreement relating to the maintenance of County bike paths located within the corporate limits of the City and constructed in 'accordance with the. Trails Policy Plan for Dakota County as adopted by the County Board of Commissioners on June 8, 1982, (hereinafter referred to as the Trails Policy.Plan) and as may be amended from time to time by the County upon the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth. NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows: 1. The County may construct or permit the City to construct separated County bike paths within the corporate limits of the City along County roads-or City streets in accordance with the Trails Policy Plan. 2. Following construction, the City will maintain such. separated County bike paths located within the corporate limits of the City in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. In regard to County built bike paths, the County will provide the City with a Notice of Completion and a set of plans of each of the above County bike path segments, upon receipt of which the City's maintenance responsibilities hereunder shall commence. In regard to County bike paths constructed by the City, the City's maintenance responsibilities hereunder will commence upon completion of such construction. 3. The maintenance to be performed by the City on the aforesaid separated bike paths is: A. Surface patching, edge repairs and cleaning of the bike path as necessary' to provide a smooth, safe and usuable surface. Pagel of 4 3 + B. Seal coating as necessary to prevent premature structural deterioration. An alternative method may be used if approved by the County Highway Department. C. Maintaining visible pavement markings and signs. D. Furnishing all labor, materials, supplies, tools and other items necessary for the performance of all and any of the work provided for in this Agreement. 4. All materials used by the City in the performance of the work under this Agreement shall conform to the requirements of MN/DOT specifications. 5. The County Engineer together with the City may agree as to the scope and time schedule of maintenance work that needs to be done to insure the safe condition of the bike path. If no agreement can be reached within a reasonable time and the amount in dispute exceeds $2,000.00, the County or the City may have the issue(s) in dispute heard by an arbitration panel, which panel shall hear the dispute and make findings and recommendations concerning the dispute according to the Uniform Arbitration Act, Minnesota Statutes Chapter 572, provided that the City has presented its dispute to the County Board before invoking the arbitration be appealed to a provisions of this paragraph. The decision may court of competent jurisdiction. The County and the City shall each choose one arbitrator. The two arbitrators chosen shall confer and jointly select a third arbitrator to complete the panel. All costs associated with the arbitration process shall be borne equally by the parties unless the non-prevailing party fails to comply with or fails to take appeal from the arbitration panel's decision. In the event that the non-prevaiing party neither complies with nor appeals from the arbitration panel's decision within thirty (30) days of said decision, the non- prevailing party shall"be solely responsible for all reasonable costs associated with the arbitration including, but not limited to, reasonable attorney's fees incurred for such arbitration. Page 2 of 4 All costs of maintenance shall be the responsibility of the City. 6. This Agreement shall be in force and effect for the life of the bikeway facilities, provided that its provisions may be reviewed at any time, but no later than fifteen (15) years, to determine if any changes are necessary. 7. Plans and specifications shall be approved by the- duly approved representative of the City or local township prior to construction of any trail covered by this Maintenance Agreement. 8. For the purposes of this Agreement, the City shall be deemed to be an independent contractor and not an employee of the County. Any and all agents, servants or employees of the City or other persons, while engaged in the performance of any work or services required to be performed by the City under the terms of this Agreemnt, shall not be considered employees of the County and any and all claims that may or' might arise on behalf of the City, its agents, servants or employees as a consequence or any act or omission on the part of the City or its agents, servants, employees or other persons shall in no way be the obligation or responsibility of the County. 9. The City further agrees to defend and save the County harmless from any claims, demands, actions -or causes of action arising out of any act or omission on the part of the City or its agents, servants or employees in the performance of or with relation to any of the work or services provided to be performed or furnished by the City under the terms of this Agreement. 10. The County agrees to defend and save the City harmless from any claims, demands, actions or causes of action arising out of any act or omission on the part of the County-or its agents, servants or employees in the performance of or with relation to the County's design and construction of the bike paths or to any other work or services performed by the County under the terms of this Agreement. 11. Any alteration, variation, modification or waiver Page 3 of 4 of the provisions of this Agreement shall be valid only after it has been reduced to writing and signed by both parties. 12. This Agreement shall constitute ' the entire agreement between the parties and shall supersede all prior oral or written negotiations. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed. Approved as to _form: COUNTY OF DAKOTA ,Vw ss'stant County Attorney/Date By Approved as to execution: Gene Atkins, Carman Board of Commissioners Date of Signature Assistant County Attorney Date Approved by Dakota County Board Resolution No. Attest Carl D. Onischuk, Auditor This instrument drafted by: JCB Date of Signature Dakota County Attorney's Office CITY OF Dakota County Government Center Hastings, Minnesota 55033 Telephone: (612) 437-0438 By Mayor Date of Signature By City Manager/Administrator Date of Signature By Clerk Date of Signature C-81-200 Page 4 of 4 bm/m 3 DAKOTA COUNTY JEFFREY J. CONNE DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & PROGRAM MANAGEMENT (612) 431-1158 7300 WEST 147th STREET, SUITE #503 APPLE VALLEY, MINNESOT 55124 MEMORANDUM TO: Parks anc, Recreation Directors FROM: Allen Moe, Program Manager DATE: February 1, 1990 SUBJECT: Meeting on Changing the County Funding Formula and Joint Powers Agreement for Bikeways I would like to invite you to a meeting on February 8, 1990 at 1:00 p.m. in the new Lakeville City Hall, 20195 Holyoke Avenue. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss funding options, joint powers agreement, and standards for bikeways in Dakota County. During 1989, the County Board requested a review of the County Bikeway System Plan by the County Planning Advisory Commission (PAC). The PAC conducted a review of the Plan and held two public informational meetings last summer. The PAC review concluded with recommendations to the County Board for the provision of both paved shoulders and off-road paths for bikers. Since receiving the PAC's recommendation, the County Board's Physical Development Committee has directed staff to review, with cities, a change in the County funding formula and joint powers agreement for bikeways on the County Bikeway System (see attached resolution). The County Board has also requested that we initiate discussions with cities concerning the development of standards for maintenance, signage and mapping of bikeways. At the last meeting with park directors an interest was expressed in pursuing these topics further. We would like to obtain reactions from the cities on the proposed funding options and methods to address consistent signage, mapping, and maintenance standards. We anticipate reviewing the input from cities with the PAC and Physical Development Board Committee in March. AM/keg M-L-PARKS cc: Dave Robley, Dakota County Transportation Engineer Barb Schmidt, Parks Assistant Director AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA DATE November 7, 1989 RESOLUTION NO. 89-822 Motion by Commissioner Loeding Seconded by Commissioner Cha delaine WHEREAS, the Planning Advisory Commission has completed a review of t e County Bikeway System Plan; and WHEREAS, the adopted County Bikeway System Plan specifies 100% Coun y funding of off-road paths on the County Bikeway System; and WHEREAS, cities within Dakota County have signed a Joint Powe s Agreement to provide maintenance of off-road bikeways; and WHEREAS, the County desires to assure the provision of safe bikewa s for County residents. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That County staff is directed to revi w the following funding options with cities concerning a change in t e County funding formula and Joint Powers Agreement for bikeways: Emphasize paved shoulder construction - 100% or cost share of paved shoulder by the County on the County Bikeway System - 100% funding of off-road paths by cities - 100% city maintenance of off-road paths Cost share off-road paths on County Bikeway System - 55/45 cost share of off-road paths with cities on the County Bikew y System - 100% or cost share of paved shoulders by the County on the Coun y Bikeway System - 100% city or cost share of maintenance of off-road paths; and YES NO Harris X Harris Maher X Maher Chapdelaine X Chapdelaine Loading X Loading Turner X Turner State of Minnesota County of Dakota I, Joan L. Kendall, Clerk to the Board of the County of Dakota, State of Minnesota, do hereby certify that I have compared the foregoing copy of a resolution with the original minutes of the proceedings of the Board of County Commissioners, Dakota County, Minnesota, at their session held on the 7th day of November 19- now on file in the County Administration Department, and have found the same to be a true and correct copy thereof. Witness my hand and official seal of Dakota County this day of /•/~~d Q?ye~~ Clerk to th Board BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That County staff undertake discussions wi h cities concerning the development of maintenance standards, signage a d mapping of bikeways. U ' DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS 1. Mr. Murphy has responded positively to an earlier letter to him regarding an outline for an agreement for early park dedication for Blackhawk Park. This dedication is necessary for the road access into Blackhawk. Staff will have the City attorney's office develop a draft agreement prepared for review by Mr. Murphy and his attorney. 2. A revised second draft of the Joint Powers Agreement between the City and School District for the Willmus site has been completed. The document was scheduled for the March 6th Council meeting, along with the preliminary plat for the school/park. 3. Youth Athletic Associations have begun to submit their requests for fields. The Facilities Steering Committee met recently, however the RAAA representative who was to provide demographic information for that organization was unable to attend; therefore, RAAA's anticipated numbers of Eagan children are not yet known! Mend-Eagan sent no representative. 4. Using the department's standard of one (1) field for every four (4) teams, EAA's projected numbers would require, 4.5 fields for travel soccer, 9.25 for softball, 22 for baseball and 4.5 hockey rinks for bantam soccer. 5. Spring programs have been planned. Priority registration for Tiny Tots Recreational Activities will begin on March 5. A seventh section has been added in order that the perceived needs of the community can be more fully met. An 80% return is anticipated from the priority registration. 6. The Community Education 196 Youth Development's Youth Connection Council continues to work on three fronts. The Youth Service Directory should be ready for distribution in May. Service organization information is being received, church and business listings are currently being solicited. The Youth Transportation Issues Survey has been administered; results expected in March. This information will be shared with Dialogue 2000 and other groups working on transportation issues. The program committee is preparing a grant approach for funding of youth programs. Criteria for applicants, programs, the selection process and time lines are being hammered out. It is hoped that the first cycle will be ready for summer programs. 7. Summer school in School District #196 will be conducted by Community Education this summer. Dates and sites are not known. Programming opportunities may result for the City! 8. NYSCA Coaches Clinics for summer sports have been set. Six (6) separate clinics have been identified. A combination of EAA and RAAA coaches will attend each clinic. 9. The department has received a preliminary inquiry from Unisys concerning absorption of their softball leagues and the possibility of maintenance of their four field complex. Interesting possibilities could arise from this inquiry. 10. Dakota Hills Middle School physical education classes briefly used the cross country ski trail at Northview Athletic following the 6" snowfall. A student reported that the trail was "neat"; he also had gotten very wet as the warm temperatures melted the snow! 11. The department's outdoor sessions of cross country ski lessons had to be cancelled. Availability of the participants and the instructor became difficult to maintain as six weeks from the scheduled dates of the classes was reached. 12. The department was invited to participate in the "Hall of Ideas" at the MRPA conference. Materials from the planning process for park shelter buildings were used to create handouts; Schwarz/Weber Architects provided boards featuring photographs of the Trapp Farm and Thomas Lake Pavilions and a slide show of various stages of the process was put together to highlight what resulted in a Citation Award for the department in 1989. 13. Director, Ken Vraa, was a featured presenter at the conference, speaking on "Keys to Successful Park Development Projects". 14. Forty-six (46) Eagan Seniors came to a Valentines lunch at the Mendota VFW. The meal was excellent. The next Seniors gathering will feature a polka band! 15. Plans for a schedule of events board, a bulletin board and a kiosk on which to mount them are in planning stages. Eagan High School's season begins in mid- April; attempts are being made to be prepared for that season. 16. Rich Pelletier and John VonDeLinde attended a clean water partnership workshop on February 21 and 22nd. This session was sponsored by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and offered details on the beginning diagnostic/feasibility study for Schwanz Lake. A local water resources planning consultant will also be retained to assist with various technical aspects of the study. Staff anticipates that run-off and in-basin sampling will begin in early June. 17. Department staff continued to be closely involved in the review and updating of the City's Comprehensive Storm Water Drainage System Plan. It is expected that a final draft of the plan will be available for review by mid-to-late April. The needs for water quality, shoreland preservation and outdoor recreation have been addressed throughout the review process. 18. The 1989/90 skating season was a difficult one for the parks maintenance crews. Warm temperatures coupled with sunny skies created many challenges for the flooding crews and zamboni ice shaver. The season closed in early February, for the B, C and D rinks; the A rinks were closed for a short period as well. 19. With the closing of the shelters, materials and supplies have been returned to a central location for storage and inventory for seasonal storage. This is the time of year when the shelters will also receive a complete top to bottom cleaning, including cleaning of all carpets and runners. 20. The two snowfalls in mid-February allowed a short period of time for cross-country skiing within the City's parks. The City of Lakeville, under agreement with the Parks & Recreation Department, was able to perform one track setting operation; unfortunately most of the snow melted again by February 25. 21. The early closing of the rinks made possible several construction and maintenance projects during the month of February. Among these projects were sand blasting and painting of forty (40) sets of regulation and mini-soccer goals; the assembly and staining of twenty-four (24) picnic tables and forty (40) park benches; three park identification signs; the complete sand-blasting and re-staining/painting of the docks for Fish and Schwan Lake. 22. The softball bases at athletic sites were cleaned and repaired in February. Base anchors were also made up for the new fields at Northview and bleachers will be under construction in early March. The new scoreboard for field #4 will also be installed in March, weather permitting. 23. Following notification from the D.N.R. on low oxygen levels in Fish Lake, the Department responded by setting up the lake aerator/baffle system on February 15. Staff anticipates running the system until ice out, sometime between mid-March and early April. If Commission members are interested in viewing the unit in operation, they can access it via the trailway at the end of the boat ramp in Fish Lake Park. 24. Thorough inventory and replacement of missing signs was done on the High Line Trail during the month of February. The sign program on the trail is now complete, and meets the need for pedestrian safety along major trail intersections, trail/road intersections. 4t. 25. Parks Maintenance worker, Steve Taylor, has been busy preparing equipment for the up-coming season. This has involved converting the groundsmasters from their winter operation to summer maintenance. Considerable time has also been spent in sharpening and fine tuning the reels for the seven and nine gang mowing units. Other equipment preparations will be on-going until the summer season begins. 26. Forester, Tom Schuster, took advantage of the good weather to catch up on some pruning and clean up activities along the trails in Blackhawk, O'Leary and Trapp Farm Parks. Some additional dead trees along the shoreline of Mooney Lake were also removed as part of the park shoreline clean-up operation reviewed with the Commission last year. 27. Park Maintenance Supervisor, Jim McGuffee, has been participating in an effective management training seminar in February. This has involved about twenty hours of lecture and classroom participation; several other first line and mid-level supervisors from the City are also participating. 28. On February 16, Jim McGuffee, Dan Curtin and Steve Taylor attended the State Pesticide Certification Program to obtain their weed spraying licenses. Tom Schuster attended the Minnesota Forestry Association Conference, Pesticide Applicators Program and Shade Tree Certification Programs. 29. The warming shelters at all ice skating sites were officially closed for the season on February 16, 1990. The warm weather rendered the ice unskateable. The sliding hill at Trapp Farm Park will be open into early March should we get sufficient snowfall. 30. The Men's Broomball season completed its season February 5. Eighteen (18) teams competed in a variety of conditions through the season, including water on a warm night. Two teams represented Eagan at the State Tournament in New Ulm on February 24 and 25. Co-Rec teams played in Eagan and Burnsville in this jointly run, twelve (12) team league. 31. Ice skating lessons saw eighty (80) beginners, twelve (12) power skaters and fourteen (14) adult beginners register for instruction at Well Site Park and Bridle Ridge Park. The weather forced cancellation of our two Monday classes, but the school vacation and Tuesday/Thursday classes were completed. 32. Three-Man Basketball ended its season on February 21, 1990. Fourteen (14) teams each played thirteen games at Thomas Lake and Woodland Elementary schools. 33. The Wednesday, Five-Man Basketball League ended February 14. Eight (8) teams played twelve (12) games each at Dakota Hills Middle School. The Thursday Five Man League continues through March 15 at Dakota Hills and Rosemount Middle Schools. 34. Four-Man Hockey ended it's season January 28. The season lost the last two evenings due to warm weather. This new league composed of five teams was well received and should grow next year. 35. Adult softball registration gets underway March 1. It is expected that the number of teams involved will grow from 174 to around 220. 36. The Winter Weekend was warm and enjoyable. A light snow blanketed Northview Athletic Fields making our Snow Softball Tournament legitimate. Sixteen (16) teams played all day Saturday, February 3, in the mild temperatures. Five teams played in our first-ever Boot Hockey Tournament. The mushy ice slowed the ball, but gave players a better foot-hold. The Snow Sculpture Contest was won by Mueller Farm Park for their statue of "The Invisible Man". Moonshine Park was the runner-up with "Mount Rushmore" as seen by Stevie Wonder." In third place was River Hills Park with their 1/32 scale model of a DNA molecule. Just kidding. 37. The speedskating season ended with a Pizza Party at Circus in Burnsville. A total of ten kids participated this year. The level of interest is down from last year, but we ended up with a state champion. 38. The family skating party that was held during the Winter Weekend attracted approximately 30 - 40 people. It was perfect weather for relay races and other games played on the ice. 39. Speedskating races were held at Well Site Park on Saturday, February 3rd. Eleven children showed up to find out how fast they could skate. Ribbons were awarded to all participants. 40. The Winter Tiny Tots program ends this week. A total of One hundred eighteen (118) 3, 4 & 5 year olds participated. An additional session has been added for the spring session in order to accommodate more participants. 4 MEMORANDUM TO: ADVISORY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION FROM: DOROTHY PETERSON, RECREATION SUPERVISOR II DATE: MARCH 6, 1990 RE: SURVEY OF COMMUNITIES REGARDING FEES AND CHARGES FOR USE OF ATHLETIC FACILITIES, OTHER THAN FOR TOURNAMENT PLAY, BY VARIOUS USER GROUPS Background Impetus for the survey was provided by a series of 1989 requests to use city athletic facilities. The department had not previously been asked to respond to requests of the nature presented to staff last year. The facility in question was tennis courts. A corporate group and a church group requested reserved use for league and/or tournament play. The corporate league required two courts for three hours per night, four days a week, for 15 weeks. The church tennis tournament request for was four courts for a 12 hour day. No established fee schedule, facility use policy nor classification of user groups existed for either type of request. Staff responded on a "what seemed a fair and equitable" basis, based on established policy for softball tournament play. The church tournament was charged $35.00, the going rate for the use of a soccer or softball field. Perhaps it should have been $35.00 per court! The corporate league paid $2.00 per hour for the use of the tennis courts. At the end of the season, the payment for use of courts was more than $700.00, causing staff to wonder whether the set fee had been excessive. Survey of Communities Page 2 Issues As the number of facilities increases and the number of organized groups also increases, the diversity of perceived, logical uses for facilities by user groups will increase. At issue then for both the short and the longer term are: Should a priority classification of user groups be developed to enable staff to appropriately respond to facility use requests? Currently, such a classification list exists only for the Community Room in the Fire Administration Building. Should a fee schedule be established which scales fees to specific user groups and to the facilities according to anticipated use patterns? Said fee schedule would undergo annual review. Should the department's philosophy concerning neighborhood park facility use be incorporated into the policies that are developed? Survey Twelve communities were surveyed by telephone. This allowed for the opportunity of follow up questions and a clearer understanding of each city's philosophy. The communities surveyed were: Apple Valley, Bloomington, Burnsville, Eden Prairie, Inver Grove Heights, Lakeville, Maple Grove, Plymouth, Richfield, Rosemount, Roseville and South St. Paul. Criteria for selection included: neighboring cities, cities of similar size and stage of development and older, established cities. In most instances, recreation staff were the source of information. Bloomington and South St. Paul preferred that the department director provide the information being requested. In addition, four private tennis clubs were contacted to learn their policies regarding use by non-member groups. The athletic facilities in question were baseball fields, softball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts and hockey rinks. Although tennis court questions began the process of inquiry, it made sense to include other facilities at the same time. User groups were broken down as follows: Department program participants/leagues, youth in-house, youth travel, youth church leagues, adult church leagues, adult independent leagues, corporate leagues and one (1) time reserved uses. Survey of Communities Page 3 Survey Results Department Programs: All communities surveyed except Maple Grove include a field use fee or capital improvement fee as part of a team's league entry fee. The fees have varying names and range from $35 to $50 per team. The 1990 Eagan softball field use fee is $45 per team; broomball was charged $25 because the season is short compared to softball. Youth In-House Programs: All communities surveyed provide facilities and daily maintenance free of charge to youth in-house programs. This holds true for each type of facility under consideration. Youth Travel Teams: Communities address youth travel teams in a number of ways. The sports involved are baseball, softball, soccer and hockey. 1. Local Athletic Association sponsorship requirements: all communities. 2. Residency requirement: addresses independent teams such as Legion, VFW, etc. Eden Prairie 100%; Plymouth 50%; South St. Paul 70% and non-resident teams are ineligible to use facilities. 3. Assessed fees for use of facilities: Apple Valley, $30.00/hour for a baseball game under lights; and a non-local youth athletic association soccer team pays $10.00 for each four (4) hour block of time assigned to them. Eagan, $50.00 per season per baseball travel team. Lakeville, $100.00/season for non-resident youth soccer teams. Hockey: none of the communities charge a fee for outdoor ice time. 4. Insurance: At the present time, Eagan is the only community actively pursuing insurance questions for travel sports. 5. Inver Grove has dropped youth travel teams due to the try-out aspect of the program. Youth Church Leagues: Softball is the only sport in which youth church leagues are experienced and only a minor number of communities have been asked to address this facility use request. 1. Local church requirement: Not specifically addressed by Eagan and Maple Grove who provide field space for youth church leagues. 2. Assessed fees: Eagan $35.00 per team; Maple Grove $5.50 per hour to cover the field attendant's salary. Survey of Communities Page 4 Youth Church Leagues (continued) 3. The remaining ten communities have either not received a facility request from a youth church league or indicate that lack of facility space would preclude such a league from forming. Burnsville, however, indicated that should a youth church league request field space, a per game fee would be charged. Adult Church League Softball and soccer facilities are most frequently requested by adult church leagues. In some instances, the city runs the church league. 1. Communities that run adult church softball leagues are: Eden Prairie and Plymouth 2. Communities reporting no room for adult church softball leagues are Eagan, Inver Grove, Lakeville, Maple Grove and Rosemount. 3. The range of fees charged by communities providing field space for adult church softball leagues is significant. Apple Valley charges least: $10.00 for a four-five hour block of time. Richfield, by comparison, charges $125.00 per team. Bloomington charges a non- profit ratio of $10.00/date/field. Burnsville charges $6.75-8.25/field/date, subject to the level of maintenance. Roseville and South St. Paul charge $12.00/field/date, lights are extra. 4. Only two communities, Apple Valley and Roseville, reported field use by adult church soccer leagues. Apple Valley charges $10.00 for a 4 hour block of time. Roseville's fee is $20.00 each "time", interpreted to mean per date. Fees for tournament use are reported by Burnsville, Eagan and Maple Grove Adult Independent Leagues/Teams: Participants in this category are "town" baseball teams, and leagues directed by other than Parks and Recreation Departments, which use city facilities. The facilities in question encompass all five (5) considered in this summary. Baseball: Burnsville, Eagan and Richfield report fees for this category of user. The fees by community are diverse: Burnsville, $10.00/game; Eagan $200.00/season; Richfield, $125.00 per season. 4.-i. Survey of Communities Page 5 Adult Independent Leagues/Teams (continued) Softball: The following communities report no independent adult softball leagues, either due to lack of space or no requests have been received. They are: Apple Valley, Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, Plymouth and Roseville. Eagan and Inver Grove Heights have experienced this type of league but have charged no fee. Burnsville, Lakeville, Richfield and Rosemount charge varying fees: Per team rates vary from $35.00 to $125.00. Burnsville alone charges a per game rate, 7.75 - 9.25, subject to the level of maintenance. Soccer: Bloomington did not list soccer facilities at all in their extensive list of categories of facilities, user groups and fees! Although cities regularly charge fees for soccer tournaments for adult independent leagues, only three (3) currently charge a season field use fee. They are: Apple Valley, Burnsville and Richfield. The maximum rate charged is $125.00 per team by Richfield. The residency requirement in cities such as Eden Prairie, Maple Grove and Plymouth deny access to a typical adult soccer team. Tennis: Only Burnsville, Bloomington and Eagan report request for court use from independent leagues. The typical fee is $2.00/court/hour. Eagan has charged $35 - $50 subject to the number of hours reserved. Hockey Rink: No community has charged a fee for outdoor ice time to independent adult leagues. It is rare for independent adult hockey or broomball leagues to exist. In Inver Grove, where independent broomball is fairly extensive, an "in kind" labor/maintenance agreement is in place in lieu of a fee structure. Corporate Leagues: Leagues of this category are the exception rather than the rule in the communities surveyed. The definition of this user group is a league comprised of teams and players who all work for the same corporation, playing a schedule of games among themselves. Baseball: No corporate teams were reported. A Survey of Communities Page 6 Corporate Leagues (continued) Softball: In most instances, corporate teams are incorporated into a city's industrial league. Field space for private leagues on public facilities rarely exists. Burnsville and Richfield reported fees to address this user group; however, incorporation into City leagues is preferred. Eagan was approached by West Publishing requesting field space for their women's league. The group rejected incorporation; independent field space was not provided in that it was not available. Soccer: Corporate soccer leagues are experienced by Burnsville and Eagan. Burnsville's fee has been $12.00/field/night. Eagan has accepted a donation. Tennis: Only six (6) of the communities surveyed have experienced this category of request. Plymouth and Roseville will not allow corporate league play on public tennis courts. The reason given was perceived inappropriate use of neighborhood courts. Bloomington, Burnsville and Eagan have charged $2.00/court/hour. Richfield charges $3.00/court/hour. Hockey Rink: Corporate broomball leagues are rare in the communities. South St. Paul has banished this corporate activity but does have a fee for it on the schedule ($15/night; $15/lights plus damage deposit). Bloomington provides a park exclusively for this activity and charges $20/team. Inver Grove requires "in kind". Roseville reports limited activity and no charge. Eagan has accepted a donation. One Time Reserved Use: None of the communities surveyed reported activity at this level to the degree experienced in Eagan. Lack of available space was the most frequent reason given for low participation in this category. Many communities do, however, provide a fee schedule to cover one time reservations for softball and hockey facilities Fewer cities address tennis courts. Baseball: No city reported this type of request for a baseball field. Softball: Apple Valley, $10.00 for a four hour block of time; Bloomington, daytime $25, evening $50; Burnsville $10 for three hours; Lakeville $15; Maple Grove $7.50 per hour if pegged bases are used; Plymouth $30 resident, $40 outside; Richfield $25 for one game plus $7.50/hour for attendant; Roseville $12/field, issue rest room key; South St. Paul $12.00; Eagan $15.00 Survey of Communities Page 7 One Time Reserved Use (continued) Soccer: Only Apple Valley and Burnsville report a reservation fee for soccer facilities, that being $10.00. The fees, however, were referred to as permit fees rather than user fees. Tennis Courts: Bloomington,Burnsville and Richfield charge their hourly rates for reserved use. Eagan has not charged the one time reservation. None of the other communities report significant activity of this nature on tennis courts. Hockey Rinks: Communities that have established fees for use of hockey rinks on a reservation basis are Apple Valley, Burnsville and Maple Grove. Apple Valley's fee is $10 for a four hour block of time plus $15 for lights. Burnsville, $8.00/permit, $13.00 if after normal hours open and Maple Grove will reserve only for residents at $6.00/hour. As one can easily note, each community has developed its fee schedule subject to its own philosophy. I would go so far as to say that, with the exception of fees such as field attendant rates or fees for lights, which cover direct costs, each fee reflects a perceived acceptable level. In some instances, such as Bloomington's $50 fee for evening use of a softball field, fees may be intended to discourage such requests. Conversation with staff from the various communities revealed aspects of philosophy or practice that are peculiar, perhaps innovative that merit review. Apple Valley_ Reserves facilities in units of time. Each day is divided into three units: 7AM - Noon, Noon - 5:30 PM and 5:30 PM - dark. A baseball unit fee is $20.00. All other facilities have a$10.00 unit fee. The light fee is $15.00. Bloomington: Differentiate between profit and non-profit groups and have established daytime and evening rates for facilities. Burnsville: Differentiates between public and private programs. Churches are considered public. Public programs for youth under age 18 are not charged fees. Fees charged are subject to the amount of preparation. Public fees range from 6.75 - 8.25; private fees are $1.00 more at each increment. Eden Prairie: Philosophy is to not tie up community facilities for a long term reservation, unless the city is a co-sponsor of the activity. No maintenance fees are charged; a capital investment fee is assessed. Inver Grove Heights: Department dropped travel baseball due to the tryout aspect of the program. Ago. Survey of Communities Page 8 Lakeville: Is in the process of formalizing categories of users and setting fees. Not yet published. Maple Grove: Do not build field use fees into league fees. Have a residency requirement that must be met to gain a permit to use a facility. Plymouth: Residency requirement is that 50% of a group must be Plymouth residents in order to gain access to facilities. Richfield: Philosophy is to subsidize youth and senior programs; adults pay their way. Rosemount: Charge tournament use fees only at the present time. Roseville: Philosophy is to limit permits for facilities such as tennis courts rather than to charge a fee. South St. Paul: Residency requirement is 70% of a group must be South St. Paul residents to qualify for access to facilities. Ea an: Has not formalized user groups nor established a comprehensive listing of fees. Private Facilities: Four private tennis facilities were surveyed to learn their policies regarding outside user groups. Eagandale Athletic Club: Non-member court fees are $12.00/hour. The facility is too busy to be able to incorporate non=member leagues onto the courts. Lily dale: ale: Non-member leagues are no longer an option. Facility is too busy. 98th St. Racquet Club: Require membership. On occasion will host "parties" if arranged by a member. Woodale Recreation Center: Has hosted St. Paul Company's corporate league This October-March activity is charged $125.00/week for three courts for two hours each. High schools are charged $12.00/hour/court. lj . Survey of Communities Page 9 FOR COMMISSION ACTION: During 1989, Parks and Recreation Staff experienced requests from each category of user for each facility listed in the survey. Staff requests direction on whether to proceed to formalize the policies for use of facilities in terms of. 1. A prioritized listing of user groups. 2. A fee system which would stand annual review. 3. A statement of philosophy concerning the appropriateness of use of neighborhood park facilities by various categories of users. DP/nh E52.. S FEES AND CHARGES FOR ATHLETIC FIELDS User Baseball Softball Soccer Tennis Hockey Dept.Programs EP: $50 Cap.Impro./Team MG: No maintenance fees Youth In House Youth Travel AV: $30 if under lights AV: Independent $10 Eag: $50/season Lkv: $100/season Youth Church MG: Att fee: 5.50/hr. Eag: 35/team Adult Church AV: $10 AV: $10 Bsv: 6.75 - 8.25 Rsv: $20 each time Blgt: $10 Rsv: 12/field SSP: 12/field $15/lights Rchf: 125/team Adult Independent Bsv: $10/game Bsv: Private 7.75-9.25 AV: $10; $30/field Bsv: $2/Ct./Hr. IGH: Rchf: $125/team Lkv: $35/team Rsv: $10/game Blmt: $2/Ct./Hr. No Eag: $200Iyr Rst: $60/team Eag: $35/season in kind Rchf: $125/team Rchf: $125/team Corporate Leagues Bsv: Private rate 7.75-9.25 Bsv: $12/field/night Blgn: min 2 cts; TBlgn:$20/team, Rchf: $125/yr. Eag: Donation $2/Hr./Ct. exclusive park Ply: by not reserved SSP: $15/d, $15/nights- . Rchf: $3/Ct./Hr. - days residents only Eag: Donation Eag: $2/Ct./Hr. IGH: No in kind Rsv: won't allow Bsv: $2/Ct./Hr. Single Reservation AV: $20 AV: $10; $5/hr/lights AV: $10 Bsv: $2/Ct/Hr. AV: $10; $15/hr./lights Bsv: $10/3 hrs. Bsv: $10/3 hrs. MG: 30/d/ct. Bsv: Permit fee $8 or Lkv: $15/use (tournament) $13 for after hours Ply: res: $30/1/2 day Blgn: Permit $10 MG: 6/hr-resident groups $55/full day Att. $8/hr, 20/field/light Rsv: $12 SSP: $12/field Rchf: $25/1 game Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission Fr" 1990 Eagan City Hall 3830 Pilot Knob Road Eagan, MN 55122 Dear Member, I would like to propose the first annual TOUR de EAGAN bicycle ride in the summer of 1990. The Tour de Eagan would be a family oriented ride through our fair city highlighting our community development i.e. our extensive parks system, recently completed bike paths and road construction, school development and commercial development. Also, the ride could help promote the need for further completion and extension of our parks and bike paths. I am a resident of Eagan, owner of Mail Boxes Etc. In the Thomas Lake Center, and a bicycle enthusiast. I feel the parks and bike paths are a tremendous asset to this city and with the Tour de Eagan we could encourage citizens to use this asset. I would like to help sponsor the program. My idea is to have different shopping centers or commercial businesses sponsor prizes, T-Shirts, food or special sales during the special day. I know there are large promotional outfits that put on races etc. but they seem too commercial and too expensive. We could start off with a "recreation" objective and maybe develope more in future years. In order for the tour not to be a race, we could offer hats or T Shirts for all entrants and eligibility for drawings when the tour is completed. Entrance fee could be low and Grand Prize might be high? Our'store would be very interested in having the Tour de Eagan start or finish in the Thomas Lake Center. I have listed a few possible places to see or pass while touring; Thomas Lake Center Ridgecliff Park 35E Cliff shops Rahn Park Cedar Cliff shops Black Hawk shops Carnelian Park Deerwood School City Hall and Library Patrick Eagan Park Northview Athletic Fields Eagan High School Lexington and Diffley shops Goat Hill Park Thomas Lake Park and Pavilion Please give my idea some thought. I am not sure what the next step is, but if the commission is interested in the idea please let know. incerely, Chuck Shults 1562 Cliff Road Eagan, MN 55122 copy: Barb Schmidt-Dakota County ¢52 24 Zt h c) ~ 9, am d2, -4,)O-off ~rna.c~ • ~o ~4.-e,e> Co-err, GZn.~OP, A.~.Q~Zae, a, CP~2-a-.,n.. .~4cy;) o,cmi,aZ At Cfl-n.oC~~n~z2~O CITY OF EAGAN SUBJECT: PRELIMINARY PLAT GOPHER EAGAN INDUSTRIAL PARK 3RD ADDITION APPLICANT: GOPHER SMELTING CO INC LOCATION: OUTLOTS A & B, GOPHER EAGAN INDUSTRIAL PARK 2ND ADDITION EXISTING ZONING: PD - LI (PLANNED DEVELOPMENT - LIMITED INDUSTRIAL) DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING: FEBRUARY 20, 1990 DATE OF REPORT: FEBRUARY 12, 1990 COMPILED BY: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT APPLICATION SUMMARY: An application has been submitted by Gopher Smelting Company, Inc. requesting a Preliminary Plat for two lots on 7.5 Limited Industrial-zoned acres. EXISTING CONDITIONS: Currently, the site is platted as Outlots A & B of Gopher Eagan Industrial Park 2nd Addition. The site abuts Bur Oak Hills 2nd Addition along the north and east property lines. Highway 149 and Kutoff Court are located along the west property line, and Minnesota Fence and Iron Works, Inc. is located directly to the south. The lots gradually slope downward to the north and east property lines. The proposed floor elevation of the building is 887.0. The surrounding lots in Bur Oak 2nd Addition are approximately 20 feet below the floor elevation as depicted in cross section Exhibit A-A. There is a ravine located along the eastern property line of Lot 1. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL: Lots 1 and 2 are approximately 3.7 and 3.8 acres respectively. Jesko Corporation, a concrete contractor, has a purchase agreement with Gopher Smelting Company to purchase proposed Lot 2. Jesko is currently located in Edina, Minnesota and intends to move their headquarters to Eagan. The proposed building includes 30,000 square feet of warehouse and 8,600 square feet of office space. Both uses are permitted in a Limited Industrial zoning district. Approximately 30 employees work at this site. The site plan indicates 60 parking stalls. The Zoning Code requires approximately 102; therefore, a variance of 42 parking stalls will be required. The landscape plan indicates the existing stand of mature trees located along Highway 149 and along the north property line of both Lots 1 and 2. A conservation easement shall be entered into to protect the existing trees. The trees and grade differential provide an excellent buffer between the two conflicting uses. The conservation easement would give the City the authority to restrict any vegetation removal. The proposed plan indicates a 40' access/egress easement from Kutoff Court east to Lot 1 along the southern property line. This borders Lot 1 of Gopher Eagan 2nd Addition. Minnesota Fence Company is located on Lot 1. They currently have a purchase agreement for Outlot C which abuts Lot 1 to the east. If the purchase of Outlot C does not occur, Outlot C will not have access and shall, therefore, be in nonconformance with Section 13.20, Subdivision 9. The closing of the property was scheduled for February 9, 1990. Due to some survey work that was incomplete, the closing did not take place. The second closing has not yet taken place at the time of this staff report; however, it should be completed by the time of the Planning Commission meeting. GRADING/DRAINAGE/EROSION CONTROL: The preliminary grading plan proposes to grade the majority of Lot 2 and a minimal amount of Lot 1 along the southwest corner of this site. The maximum cut on the site will be 6' and the maximum fill will be 6'. The preliminary grading plan proposes to protect a strip of wooded area along the north property line of this site for a width of 50' - 80'. Also, a 40' wide area is proposed to be protected along the west side of Lot 2. The wooded area to be preserved will provide a buffer to the adjoining residential area to the north plus it will limit the erosion from the development to the north. Surface water drainage from Lots 1 and 2 is proposed to be conveyed through a storm sewer system that will connect to the existing 36" storm sewer along the east property line. The existing 36" storm sewer on the east property line of this site has sufficient capacity and depth to serve Lots 1 and 2. The proposed storm sewer system will intercept all of the surface water from Lots 1 and 2 except for the northerly strip of woods. The wooded area will drain overland to the north across the single-family lots in the Burr Oak Hills 2nd Addition development and be picked up by the existing storm sewer in Hillside Drive. The storm sewer will drain to Pond GP-l which is located in the Burr Oak Hills 2nd Addition development. Pond GP-1 has an outlet via lift station and force main to the west to Pond EP-2. Staff recommends that the internal storm sewer on Lot 2 be extended to the southwest to intercept the proposed catch basins and ditch located at State Highway 149 and Kutoff Court intersection. The 5-year flow to the proposed storm sewer on Kutoff Court will be 5 cfs. The 2' - 6' high retaining wall is proposed along the north side of the building on Lot 2. The development will be required to submit detailed plans and specs covering the construction of the proposed retaining wall. An erosion and sediment control plan was not submitted with this application. The development will be responsible for installing and maintaining erosion control measures in accordance with the City's erosion/sediment manual standards. WATER RESOURCES: Pond GP-1 (Burr Oaks Pond) is classified as a Class II - Indirect Contact recreational waterbody. Burr Oak Pond currently meets water quality criteria for a Class II waterbody. The review of the water quality impacts the development would have on Burr Oak Pond was not completed at the time of the preparation of the report. UTILITIES: Sanitary sewer of sufficient size, capacity and depth has been stubbed to the north property line of this proposed development from the Burr Oak Hills 2nd Addition. The preliminary utility plan proposes to connect to this existing 8" sanitary sewer and extend a line to the southeast to serve Lots 1 and 2. An existing 18" trunk sanitary sewer is also available at the southwest corner of this site, however, it does not have sufficient depth to serve Lot 1. A 24" trunk water main of sufficient pressure and capacity is located along State Highway 149 to provide service to this development. The preliminary utility plan proposes to connect to the existing 24" water main and extend an 8" water main along the south end of this site to serve Lots 1 and 2. Staff recommends that a hydrant should be added to the central part of Lot 2 along the west side of the parking lot to improve fire protection to the proposed building on Lot 2. STREETS/ACCESS/CIRCULATION: The preliminary site plan proposes to obtain access to Lots 1 and 2 from the unimproved portion of Kutoff Court. The developer will be required to contact MnDOT and obtain their requirements for the upgrading of Kutoff Court up to the intersection with State Highway 149. City Project 516 upgraded Kutoff Court to a point approximately 50' south of the south property line of this development. The remaining portion of the upgrading of Kutoff Court was deleted from Project 516. Indications are that MnDOT will require both a right turn and bypass lane be added at State Highway 149 at the intersection. Also, it was determined that the location of the intersection of Kutoff Court and State Highway 149 would be best determined by waiting for development of the parcels on Outlots A and B of the Gopher Eagan Industrial Park 2nd Addition. The upgrading of Kutoff Court shall be designed to a 36' face-to-face width with concrete curb and gutter and storm sewer to collect the runoff. The preliminary site plan proposes to provide access to Lot 1 by constructing an access driveway along the south property line of Lot 2 from Kutoff Court to Lot 1. City staff recommends that the width of this driveway shall be a minimum of 30', and a concrete valley gutter shall be constructed across Kutoff Court at the intersection of the new driveways. EASEMENTS/RIGHT-OF-WAY/PERMITS: This development shall dedicate all easements necessary for the internal sanitary sewer, water main and storm sewer systems of sufficient width as required by alignment and depth. 80' of right-of-way has been dedicated for Kutoff Court at the present alignment. If the upgrading of Kutoff Court is required to be located to the north, then additional right-of-way will need to be dedicated. A proposed ingress/egress easement will be required over the proposed driveway along the south end of Lot 2. This development shall be responsible for ensuring that all regulatory agency permits (MPCA, MWCC, Department of Health, MnDOT, etc.) are acquired prior to final plat approval. FINANCIAL OBLIGATION - GOPHER EAGAN INDUSTRIAL PARK 3RD BASED UPON THE STUDY OF THE FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS COLLECTED IN THE PAST AND THE USES PROPOSED FOR THE PROPERTY THE FOLLOWING CHARGES ARE PROPOSED. THE CHARGES ARE COMPUTED USING THE CITY'S EXISTING FEE SCHEDULE AND CONNECTIONS PROPOSED TO BE MADE TO THE CITY'S UTILITY SYSTEM BASED ON THE SUBMITTED PLANS. IMPROVEMENT PROJ USE RATE QUANTITY AMOUNT WATER TRUNK 447 C/I 1450/A 4.75 A $ 6888 WATER AVAILABILITY CHARGE 538 C/I 2285/A 7.5 A 17138 TOTAL $24026 CONDITIONS: These standard conditions of plat approval as adopted by Council action on September 15, 1987 shall be complied with: Al, B1, B2, B3, B4, Cl, C2, C4, C5, D1, El, Fl, and G1. 1. The required conservation easement for the north property line shall be properly conveyed and recorded simultaneously with the final plat. 2. A Variance of 42 parking stalls shall be approved with the plat. 3. No outdoor storage shall be allowed. 4. No outdoor speakers shall be allowed. 5. The development is required to provide a 5 cfs storm sewer outlet to the storm sewer system in Kutoff Court. 6. The development is required to submit detailed plans and for the construction of the proposed retaining wall for staff review and comment. 7. The development is required to limit nutrient loadings to Burr Oak Pond to predevelopment levels. STANDARD CONDITIONS OF PLAT APPROVAL A. Assessments 1. This development shall accept its additional assessment obligations as defined in the staff's report in accordance with the final plat dimensions and the rates in effect at the time of final plat approval. B. Easements and Rights-of-Way 1. This development shall dedicate 10' drainage and utility easements centered over all common lot lines and adjacent to private property or public right-of-way. 2. This development shall dedicate, provide, or financially guarantee the acquisition costs of additional drainage, ponding, and utility easements as required by the alignment, depth, and storage capacity of all required public utilities and streets located beyond the boundaries of this plat or outside of dedicated public right-of-way as necessary to service this development. 3. This development shall dedicate all public right-of-way and temporary slope easements for ultimate development of adjacent roadways as required by the appropriate jurisdictional agency. 4. This development shall dedicate adequate drainage and ponding easements to incorporate the required high water elevation necessitated by City storm water storage volume requirements. C. Plans and Specifications 1. All public streets and utilities necessary to provide service to this development shall be designed by a registered professional engineer in accordance with City codes and engineering standards and policies, and approved by staff prior to final plat approval. 2. A detailed grading, drainage, erosion, and sediment control plan must be prepared in accordance with current City standards and approved by staff prior to final plat approval. 3. This development shall insure that all temporary dead end public streets shall have a cul-de-sac constructed in accordance with City engineering standards. 3. STANDARD CONDITIONS OF PLAT APPROVAL PAGE TWO 4. A detailed landscape plan shall be submitted on the proposed grading plan and approved by staff prior to the final plat approval. The financial guarantee shall be included in the Development Contract and not release until one year after the date of installation. 5. All internal public and private streets shall be constructed within the required right-of-way in accordance with City design standards. D. Public Improvements 1. If any public improvements are to be installed under a City contract, the appropriate project must be approved by Council action prior to final plat approval. E. Permits 1. This development shall be responsible for the acquisition of all regulatory agency permits in the time frame required by the affected agency. F. Parks Dedication 1. This development shall fulfill its parks dedication requirements as recommended by the Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission and approved by Council action. G. Other 1. All standard platting and zoning conditions shall be adhered to unless specifically granted a variance by Council action. Advisory Planning Commission City Council Approved: August 25, 1987 September 15, 1987 Revised: PLATAPPR.CON LTS #1 6/12/89 I f 9 ' IiIIIIIIII o _ I I I i i, + 6 3/.Itba 611IH ONI N 00 -C IC -I`'•. of On ZZ, Ulm w IZU I ( s i~I'IIj;~ 1~i I + 1 I ~ \ r 4 V 1, I j I III I II ~ ~ ~ .01 lug O 11~ • [~f II W e9 II t i IN / \ V 4 so 9 mi: 00 -CM 3.1 11 I I' 1 i ca 15 Ile, I H---~+~ , i\ \ I j I 1 E----- i s 49 00 . ~ AEI ' tw ti • Z • ~ I 11 66EI~is~ = ! E r E ! ~ ~ t c g Ee z O 11~a~ e~36 Oi ¢ :EEEE I 1 2I I I 1 I+ O e , W ; W IL I l' I I W~ E ! i z to 4 W 3 3 ~ ~ < d 116 % v ' ,l o r a e 3 i 3nttlO $-111H 9N1 tl Ne CC 13 W he 46 - i,'1 1 %l i 111 I / j • 1 1 1 r I r , t 1 i II 1 111 , r 1 i l i L i ~ ~ a 5-1 1 I I I I t I` 1 I ~ 1T? i 1 IIt I~~ y I / 1 / ~ V' vI ~ci ~ i~• III i __•a ----ice 1 _JJJ ( ,4 NO ES q4 a = y At 3:1 tot j ¦ PROPERTY LINE PROPERTY LINE HILLSIDE DRIVE 990 Sao 870 960 830 CROSS SECTION A - A Ito , 60' GFP-12 CL.V GP-ii CL. VII CL. VI • •'4.Y 1.~ iZ. ' iN ~ GP-3 CL. VI 'L[iii IV'r GP-2 8L'y'.....'.`. ICL V e L.S>-.11 CL, li V,. CL VII .00,,o GP I . tki N'k `:1 36 GP-9 CL. a 24 Direct Contact Class I v Contact Class Indirect GP 4.~ l` 1 CL. I Scenic Recreation Class III Wildlife Habitats Class IV L Nutrient Traps Class V Sediment Basins Class VI Stormwater Basins Class VII Okmestmo 886106•'• 4 10816 Rose" WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT PLAN , k A WATERSHED G A..ou.w. Am I Date: Comm. NUAK FINANCIAL OBLIf3ATION • . • ,viii~;:FI::D iii o•• '•.;Y.' 1? 1 ; 1 ; ; 1; o.;v!:wyX• :{:ii ~:;1;~:.,+!• , 'yam % Z \ : \ ' Ir:+ • c;~ ~Mw•; Sit . , jam- \ ;yn 1 `at WATER TRUNK YQ~NEN [RYAN INOUSTMAIStr ILA1 " YYp,[N SMELTNIY CO ?Mlll ENO AOOITION -ILlEw-m-p- 17 •1 I , / T Nrlfldt at,r[ FINANCIAL OBLIGATION poll • • • • • • vM. w•L?.v.:Fl+:l;•wrrti;• tii~?irvw y ! / a \I ` ! ; .yam ~ ~"~~!~•7v:j;;''•:: f ~ I ~ IX ~'i %.1% \ .}rTi}•rrr: : > I,1 \ i / v,..r•.}};•r,: ;oi: • 1 / j~ III 1 i , uc-l call Soo WATER AVAILABILITY CHARGE Q,QrN[11 [ROAN IND1/tT11lAl w do 6110 OONI[t SY[LIINO CO ?AwR i11' AOOITNHI DATE: March 2, 1990 TO: Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission FROM: Residents of Ridgewood Drive SUBJ: Proposed Development of Wescott Station Park and Access We, the residents of Ridgewood Drive, would like to voice our conern regarding the proposed access and development of the Wescott Station Park. In making a decision to purchase lots and build our homes in this area, we were told, by the city of Eagan, that the outlot, on Ridgewood Dr., would be comprised of walking paths and bike trails leading to a "soft nature" neighborhood park. West Publishing recently purchased and began development of the land surrounding the park, thus land-locking this area. At that time a decision was made to use the outlot on Ridgewood Drive as the main access versus the original plan, which had the main access into the park off Yankee Doodle Road. We strongly oppose this concept due to the following reasons: 1. West Publishing has offered an easement off Elrene Rd. to be used as the main access to the park. We would like to see this option reconsidered. 2. Ridgewood Dr. is a quiet cul-de-sac type street with little or no traffic other than that of the residents. A quiet street is not the location for a main park access. 3. Per the Director of Parks and Recreation, the standard width for an access, or entrance, to this type of park is 300 ft. The outlot on Ridgewood Dr. is approximately 90 ft. 210 ft. smaller than the standard park entrance. This access is to include a 35ft. road leading to a 12 car parking lot this outlot on Ridgewood Dr. is too limited in size for such development. Due to this size limitation, the park access will be closer to the residential homes than that of a standard access. 4. We are concerned that the upgraded access and park development will create a community draw from outside the neighborhood which may result in excess litter, after-hours loitering in the isolated parking lot, and possible property damage. 5. After conferring with a registered appraiser, we were informed that the value of property and homes, in close proximity to the proposed access (road and parking lot), would depreciate in value. See enclosure. 6. A summary of the Aspen Ridge Neighborhood Park Meeting, held February 1, 1990, at which 60 residents were in attendance, shows a preference for a Nature Park and no parking lot. Summary of this meeting is enclosed. Please take into consideration the consensus of the Aspen Ridge Neihgborhood Park Meeting, referred to in #6. These are the concerns of the Aspen Ridge neighborhood not just the Ridgewood Drive residents. We would like to invite the members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission to personally view the outlot and park area on Ridgewood Drive to assist you in understanding our concerns. We want to work with the city of Eagan to develop a beautiful park, but not at a cost to our homes and immediate neighborhood. Together we are confident we can develop this park to the satisfaction of the Ridgewood Drive residents, the Aspen Ridge neighborhood, and the city of Eagan. Thank you for your time and cooperation. Enclosures cc: Tom Egan, Mayor of Eagan Steve Bryant, Manager Engineering & Maintenance West Publishing Mark and Lynn LaSalle Richard and Joanne Jangula 3682 Ridgewood Drive 3676 Ridgewood Drive Eagan, MN 55123 Eagan, MN 55123 John and Sue McNamara Nick and Silvia Choban 3661 Ridgewood Drive 3658 Ridgewood Drive Eagan, MN 55123 Eagan, MN 55123 9~4 a.-,D 'UA~ Scott and Wendy Sandmann Ken and Mary Ellen Kopesky 3664 Ridgewood Drive 3675 Ridgewood Drive Eagan, MN 55123 Eagan, MN 55123 Gregg and Renate Johnson Andy and Diannna Savage 3689 Ridgewood Drive 3652 Ridgewood Drive Eagan, MN 55123 Eagan, MN 55123 Y"~ John and Sue Marshalla 3694 Windtree Drive Eagan, MN 55123 Summary Aspen Ridge Neighborhood Park Meeting Held February 1,1990 Dakota County Library The following recommendations in order of priority were decided by general consensus of the approx. sixty neighbors attending the meeting. 1. Retain existing natural areas as much as possible. A. Plant indigenous/native plants such as: Eastern Red Cedar, Red Oak, Bur Oak, Northern Pin Oak, Aspen, Choke Cherry, American Plum, Serviceberry. B. Screen industrial and enclose park along eastern border. C. Landscape entrance at outlot. D. Possibly construct prairie in cornfield and/or other appropriate areas such as slopes. E. Management and planting of wetlands/storm sewer ponds. (Note: Wetlands in park are unclassified and are utilized as storm water holding ponds.) 2. Construct a woodframe playground with swings 3. Develop natural hard pack aggregate trails for walkers, strollers, and, possibly, bikes. 4. include a multi-use flat area approx. 1-2 acres for recreational skating, baseball, informal play. 5. Half basketball court. 6. Double tennis court. There was a general consensus that a parking lot is not necessary unless facilities are developed that will create a community draw. Concern about parking on the street in front of houses near to outlot. Concern for children's safety exiting park at outlot between parked cars. Suggested location of playground and other active areas straight east from outlot on ridge because of the visi- bility of the area for watching children and centralizing the destructive construction activity. Observation that developing prairie areas desirable over sodding or seeding exotic grasses. Also concern for water quality in pond areas and deluging from parking lots, roofs, and roads. C. E. LASALLE & ASSOCIATES Real Estate Appraisers & Consultants SUITE 140 7400 METRO BOULEVARD EDINA, MINNESOTA 55435 C. E. LaSALLE March 5, 1990 Telephone SRPA, ASA, SR/WA 612-835-1001 Ridgewood Drive Residence % Mr. and Mrs. Richard Jangula 3680 Ridgewood Drive Eagan, Minnesota 55123 Dear Mr. and Mrs. Jangula: At your request, I have acquainted myself with your neighborhood with specific reference to the various concept plans for Wescott Station Park. Concept Alternative A: Alternative A is the most intensive use of the land available for park. Functions range from passive uses such as wildlife habitat preservation and enhancement, pond area, prairie area, reforestation areas, screening area, observation areas, and picnic areas - to fairly intensive functions such as ball field, hard court, playground, horseshoe court, and soccer field. With these types of intensive uses, the functions tend to draw and attract from population beyond the existing neighborhood. The entrance to the park is below standard established by the city of Eagan and includes a 300 foot driveway extending from Ridgewood Drive northeasterly to a parking lot. The elevations of the driveway and parking lot will be such as to be fully visible for those residents along Ridgewood Drive, and portions of Windtree Drive east of the intersection with Ridgewood Drive. The attraction of the more intensive park functions, and the access arrangement is incompatible with the surrounding residential uses and will have a definite and measurable impact on the market value of those home and properties directly. The loss in value may be as much as 5 - 10% of the property value. Concept Alternative B: The uses under the development plan B have been softened somewhat. All of the passive uses have been retained but the soccer field has been eliminated and an open play area has been combined with a relocated ball field. The hardcourt has been reduced in size, and the playground shifted in location. The horseshoe courts have been eliminated. From the standpoint of those home owners directly adjacent to the park, this is an improvement. However, the driveway and parking lot has been retained in the same location and with the same configuration, and full view of a number of residences directly adjacent to the park. While this plan has less negative impact on market value, the parking lot and driveway arrangement off Ridgewood Drive is still sub standard, and still would create a definite and measurable loss in value to those property owners, ranging from 0 - 5%, in my judgment. Concept Alternative C: Of the three plans submitted, Concept Alternative C has no negative impact on the market value of the surrounding homes, in my judgment. All of the passive types of uses have been maintained. The ball field has been eliminated and the open play area maintained which would eliminate the attraction from population outside of the immediate neighborhood. The playground and hardcourt area have been relocated to a less obtrusive position and hiking and walking trails have been expanded with a combination bituminous and soft surface construction. In my judgment, this park will be an asset to your specific neighborhood. I trust this information is helpful. If I can answer any questions or provide any additional services, do not hesitate to contact me. Very truly yours, C. ,.E-.--LaSALLE & ASSOC3.~TES C. E. LaSalle, SRPA