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12/19/1994 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission AGENDA ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA Monday, December 19, 1994 7:00 PM Eagan Municipal Center A. 7:00 P.M. Regular Meeting B. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance C. Approval of Agenda 7:03 pm D. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of November 14, 1994 Pages 3-13 7:05 pm E. Visitors to be Heard F. Department Happenings Pages 15-17 7:10 pm G. Consent Agenda H. Development Proposals 1. Old Business (1) 1995 Park/Trails Dedication Fees Pages 19-20 7:15 pm (2) Park System Plan Update 7:20 pm J. New Business K. Parks Development Update (1) Walden Heights-Park Update Pages 21-22 7:25 pm L. Water Resources Update (1) Monitoring Results for Carlson Lake/Heine Pond Pages 23-29 7:40 pm (2) Update on Resident Requests Pages 31-40 7:50 pm M. Other Business and Reports (1) Skating Rink - South Oaks Park Pages 43-44 8:00 pm (2) Snowmobile Discussion - Lee Markell 8:10 pm (2) Resignation of John VonDeLinde 8:25 pm N. Round Table 8: pm 0. Adjoumment/Wokshop 8:45 pm RECREATION SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING 6:00 PM The City of Eagan is commixed to the policy that all persons have equal access to its programs, services, activities, facilities aidempbyment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, marital stain , sexual orientation, or stain with regwdso public assistance. Auxiliary aids for disabled persons wishing to participate are available upon request at list 96 hours in advance of the e++ents. 9 a notice of less than 96 hours is received, the City will make every attempt to provide the aids. _ city of eagan MEMO DATE: DECEMBER 15, 1994 TO: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATIONS SUBJECT: DECEMBER 19, 1994 COMMISSION MEETING The final Commission meeting of the year will be preceded by a Recreation Sub- Committee meeting at 6:00 p.m. The sub-committee meeting will last approximately one- half hour or until the entire Commission meets at 6:30 p.m. for the purpose of reviewing and submitting a joint response to the Council's survey request. The regular meeting of the Commission will begin at 7:00 p.m. This month's agenda is relatively light but has potential for discussion on several items which will lengthen the meeting. Staff would like to alert the Advisory Commission that upon conclusion of the meeting, adjournment to a workshop session on the Borchert- Ingersoll site is imperative. Recent developments concerning this property and the Gopher Smelting property to the south and east will need to be shared with the Commission. This will require at least 45 minutes of the Commission's evening. After the Call to Order, approval of the Agenda and minutes from the regular meeting of November 14, the Commission can proceed to the Visitors to be Heard and Department Happenings. There are no consent agenda items or development proposals for the Commission to review at this meeting. Under Old Business, there are two items for the Commission to review. 1995 Parks/Trails Dedication Fees were discussed at the November 28 workshop and is presented for formal adoption and recommendation to the City Council. A memorandum has been included for your review regarding this item. Staff would also like to update the Commission regarding the Park Systems Plan and the final writing that is now occurring. There are no new business items, however, under Parks Development, C.J. Lilly has prepared a brief memo outlining the issues relative to Walden Heights Park and requests some direction from the Commission to either continue the work effort on this park or defer until a later time. Water Resources Coordinator, Rich Brasch, has two items under the Water Resources Update and has prepared memorandums for your review. Under Other Business and Reports there are three items for the Commission to review and discuss; the potential location of a skating rink at South Oaks Park, a snowmobile discussion that Chairman Lee Markell has had with Dakota County, and finally, John VonDeLinde wishes to address the Commission concerning his resignation from the Department to accept the position with Anoka County. After the round table, it would be appropriate for the Advisory Commission to adjourn to review the Borchert-Ingersoll site at a workshop session. We hope the Advisory Commission is enjoying this holiday season but will still find an opportunity to attend this final meeting of 1994. As usual, if you are unable to attend the meeting, please call Cherryl at 681-4661. Respectfully submitted, .Ken Vraa Director of Parks and Recreation dl:commtg Subject to Approval MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION EAGAN, MINNESOTA November 14, 1994 A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:00 pm on November 14, 1994 with the following Commission Members present: Michael Vincent, David Szott, Stephen Thompson, Lee Markell, Ted Billy, Jonathan Widem, John Rudolph and Sherie Wallace. Commission Members George Kubik and Ken Tyler were not present. Staff present included Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation; Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; John VonDeLinde, Parks Superintendent; Rich Brasch, Water Resources Coordinator; Gregg Hove, Supervisorof Forestry; C.J. Lilly, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner; Shannon Tyree, Project Planner; Mike Ridley, Project Planner and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary. AGENDA Director Vraa added Oakridge Family Housing - HRA to the Consent Agenda. Stephen Thomas moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to approve the agenda as presented. MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 17, 1994 John Rudolph moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to approve the minutes of the October 17, 1994 meeting as presented. DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS Director Vraa highlighted several of the department happenings including providing concessions for the state football tournament, increase in the Eagan hockey program from 32 to 38 teams, installation of the scoreboard on softball field #6 at Northview, new mail-in priority registration for winter programs, successful Treat Trail and Terror Trail for Halloween, recruitment of winter recreation staff has begun, completion of Blackhawk Park playground was noted, supplemental aglime was ordered and spread on many of the park system infields, landscaping of the Fish Lake Park trail has been completed by the Twin Cities Tree Trust, seasonal park shelter building have been winterized and there was recent damage of $1,800 to the Woodhaven Park hockey rink by a vehicle. CONSENT AGENDA Stephen Thompson moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the Advisory Planning Commission and the City Council regarding the following proposals: 1. Frank Rechtzigel Addition. Because there is no development proposed, there are no parks or trails dedication requirements. Park dedication issues for the entire 32.3 acre tract will be reviewed when Outlot A develops. Water quality issues will be reviewed when Outlot A develops. 2. Pines Edge 2nd Addition - Shamrock Development. Individual tree preservation plans will be required prior to individual lot development, there are no jurisdictional wetlands located within the boundaries of this plat. The runoff generated from the site will be treated by a newly constructed detention basin designated as Pond LP-27.3, located on the west side of the elementary school. The storm water runoff will be treated in the detention basin before discharging into Pond LP-26, the nearest downstream recreational water body. There is no cash dedication or on-site ponding required with this development. The parks and trails dedication were calculated with the first addition, therefore, no cash or land dedication will be required for this development. 3 Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 14, 1994 Meeting Page 2 3. Eagan Family Housing LTD. - EHW Properties. This proposal is for a preliminary Planned development. Specific recommendations relative to parks/trails dedication, tree preservation and water quality/wetlands will be addressed with the plat application. TOWN CENTER 100 FIFTEENTH ADDITION - RED ROBIN Director Vraa introduced this item noting that the Commission had reviewed it at their October meeting and deferred action pending further review by the Natural Resources Sub-committee. Commission Member Widem explained that the Commission's concern with encroachment onto the wetlands area and consideration for moving the Red Robin building to mitigate that impact was discussed with the developer. The Sub- committee's conclusion at the end of their meeting was that this project should be left as platted with some specific recommendations. It was noted that the tree removal can be mitigated on site. Member Wallace asked if there was discussion relative to access to Yankee Doodle Road. Member Widem noted that this was not an issue covered by the Natural Resources sub-committee. Member Thompson indicated that access had been discussed by the developer at one point, however, the County did not agree that access on Yankee Doodle was a possibility. Member Markel) asked what the minimum parking requirements were for this site. Member Widem responded the minimum was 85 and Red Robin was looking at providing more, however there was to be no shared parking with the theater. Member Widem concluded that the developer was amenable to most options discussed by the sub-committee and the sub-committee was comfortable with the developer's proposal. Member Thompson added that although the developer was unsure about the potential for a boardwalk in this development, it should be made clear that the developer wold be responsible forthe cost of the boardwalk only to the extent that would be equal to the cost of a bituminous trail. In response to a question relative to the preservation of a stand of black willows, Forestry Supervisor Hove responded the trail could be located between the building and the willows, thus preserving them. Member Markell reiterated his concern that a 50 foot buffer should be provided around wetlands and commented that he did not feel this was a specifically sensitive development because of the wetland impact. Member Widem empathized with Member Markell's comments, but noted that development has already occurred around this wetland and the sub-committee felt they had come to a good compromise with the Red Robin development. As a point of clarification, Director Vraa noted that if a boardwalk was a requirement of this development, the developer would be responsible for the cost of a bituminous trail an the City would be responsible for the difference in cost between the bituminous trail and boardwalk. After further discussion, Jonathan Widem moved, Stephen Thompson seconded the motion that the following recommendations be made to the Advisory Planning Commission and City Council regarding Town Centre 100 Fifteenth Addition - Red Robin: 1. The clusters of black willows near the ponds edge should be preserved. The loss of the remaining woodland should be mitigated with plantings on the site as per the City's Tree Preservation Policy and staff direction. The wetland edge shall receive top priority for replacement plantings. 2. All necessary erosion control measures should be required to keep sediment from entering the pond during grading and construction. A floating silt curtain should be installed in the pond where fill approaches the north wetland shoreline. The curtain should be installed prior to any grading and be maintained until after the site is stabilized with vegetation. 3. The trail within the plat should be a boardwalk. The subcommittee prefers a boardwalk over a bituminous trail because a boardwalk offers more flexibility in avoiding impacts to the willows, reduces intrusion into the wetland, and adds to the aesthetics of the pathway. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 14, 1994 Meeting Page 3 4. The plan should be revised to show the six foot sidewalk location along Yankee Place northward to Yankee Doodle Road which will be a continuance of the existing Mann Theater sidewalk. 5. The plan should be revised to show the trial north of the pond to be a minimum of eight feet. 6. The site plan should be revised to show the north/south trail on the east property line to be a minimum of eight feet. 7. A trail connection shall be made along Yankee Place and around the north edge of pond DP- 20. 8. LA pond excavation plan for Pond DP-20 must be submitted and approved by the City's water Quality Resources Coordinator indicating a minimum of 850 cubic yards of material be excavated and removed from the pond. Those voting Aye included Michael Vincent, David Szott, Stephen Thompson, Ted Billy, Jonathan Widem,John Rudolph and Sherie Wallace. Lee Markell voted Nay. The motion was passed. LENTSCHS DEERWOOD POINTE Director Vraa introduced this item again noting that the Commission had reviewed this development at their October meeting and had deferred action until the Natural Resource s Sub-committee reviewed it further. Member Widem noted that this item was brought to the Sub-committee because no tree preservation plan had been provided for review at the October Commission meeting. After review, Widem continued, the Sub-committee is comfortable with the preservation being provided with this development. Forestry Supervisor Hove commented that the tree preservation plan had been updated and meets present requirements. Mary Patrulo, 3950 Clippers, commented that she agreed with the City's tree preservation plan, howeverthe majority of the big trees on this particular site were removed before the development was proposed and submitted to the City for consideration. She provided photos to the Commission showing the tree density prior to this development proposal, while the property was still zoned agricultural. Ms. Patrulo stated she felt this was a violation of the intent of the Tree Preservation Policy and asked the City to consider looking at the policy to attempt to eliminate this 'loophole' Member Billy asked what impact the Tree Preservation Policy would have on land zone agricultural. Superintendent VonDeLinde explained that the City does not have control over tree removal prior to proposed development and suggested that the Commission may want to re-visit that issue in the Tree Preservation Guidelines. Supervisor Hove did verify that he had received calls regarding the tree removal at this site and had talked to the individual who was cutting them stating he had permission to clear the property before development. Roy Wallace, member of the Advisory Planning Commission, commented that the Planning Commission has taken action on this development and expressed his concern that this may be an easy way for trees to be removed pre-development. After further discussion, Jonathan Widem moved, Ted Billy seconded a motion to make the following recommendations to the City Council regarding Lentschs Deerwood Pointe: 1. The applicant should identify all significant trees to be saved as per the approved tree preservation plan and install protective measures as directed by City forestry staff. 2. The applicant shall notify the City Forestry Division at least five days prior to the issuance of a grading permit to ensure compliance with the approved Tree Preservation Plan. All tree protective measures shall be in place, as shown on the approved grading plan, before grading commences. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 14, 1994 Meeting Page 4 3. The tree protection measures should remain in place until construction on the individual lots is completed. 4. The water quality cash dedication for the lot containing an existing abandoned residence should be pro-rated based on the presumed difference in pre and post-development impervious coverage. 5. This development would be subject to a cash parks dedication. 6. This development would be subject to a cash trails dedication. EAGAN OAKS - CITYWIDE DEVELOPMENT Project Planner Ridley introduced this item as a Preliminary Subdivision consisting of 46 lots with 45 townhouse units on 8.1 acres located at the southwest intersection of Yankee Doodle Road and Elrene Road in the NE 1/4 of Section 14. This item will appear on the November 22 Advisory Planning Commission agenda, Ridley concluded. Forestry Supervisor Hove reviewed the plan identifying the footprint of forest cover and the areas to be preserved with this development. The developer is being asked to reduce specimen tree removal on this site and the developer has indicated their willingness to work on preservation of specimen trees. Member Markel) commented on the beauty of the peninsula on this site and asked if a conservation easement could be created to allow that area to remain in it's present condition. Markell also asked that the tree protection fencing be left in place until after the last building is- constructed. Roy Hanson who works with the developer, noted their concern for the trees on this site and indicated their willingness to preserve as many as they could. Mr. Hanson also indicated the plan is to maintain the peninsula as is. Afterfurtherdiscussion, Stephen Thompson moved, Jonathan Widem seconded with all members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the Advisory Planning Commission and City Council relative to Eagan Oaks - Citywide Development, Inc. 1. There is one small jurisdictional wetland located in the northcentral portion of the site that will not be disturbed by this development. 2. Because site drainage to EP-2 is limited and the drainage to JP-33 will have little impact on high class water bodies downstream, staff is recommending a cash water quality dedication. 3. Prior to any site grading, the developer should install fencing at the critical root zone around all trees depicted on the Plan to be saved. Once this is completed, the developer should contact the City so an inspection can be performed priorto any site grading, trenching, filling, compaction or change in soil chemistry taking place. 4. This development would be subject to a cash parks dedication and a cash trails dedication. 5. Staff would work with developer to consider a conservation easement for the treed peninsula on the south central portion of the site. EASTER LUTHERAN CHURCH 6. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 14, 1994 Meeting Page 5 Director Vraa introduced this item explaining that the Commission would be reviewing a Conditional Use Permit request for Easter Lutheran Church and was asked that their review focus primarily on whether the development met water quality, wetland and tree preservation requirements. Project Planner Tyree explained that the location of this proposed development is on the northwest corner of Pilot Knob Road and Cliff Road adjacent to Thomas Lake. Easter Lutheran Church is requesting a Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment to allow a change in land use from D-1 Single Family Residential to Public Facility and a Preliminary Planned Development/Conditional Use Permit to allow the phased development of a 73,385 sq.ft. church facility and 430 parking stalls. The Conditional Use Permit is needed to allow the maximum impervious surface coverage to be increased. Planner Tyree explained that the tree inventory for this site identified 169 significant trees of which 119, or 70.4% will need to be removed. Since this exceeds the 30% allowable tree removal, Tyree continued, mitigation would require the replacement of 216 category 'B' trees. Approximately 40% of the site is covered with trees and the proposed development will remove 70% of that 40%. There was one fringe wetland identified and delineated on the site along the perimeter of Thomas Lake however staff has not received a detailed grading plan forthe development to determine whether encroachment was likely. The staked wetland edge,Tyree continued, is well within the "constrained area' identified on the proposed stormwater management plan and extends about 50 feet back from the ordinary high water elevation of Thomas Lake. The applicant has identified this as an area wherein no disturbance will take place. Staff recommends that no filling or draining of any wetland area within the site be permitted to maintain adjacent protective buffers around the lake. It was also suggested that a buffer strip to maintain the natural vegetation some distance back from the edge of the lake, beyond the fringe wetland, would be appropriate. Staff felt that a 50' buffer strip from the OHWM of Thomas Lake wold protect the screening vegetation and help prevent movement of sediment into Thomas Lake. Planner Tyree continued that the Shoreland Zoning Ordinance requires a 25% impervious surface maximum for general development lakes however, this applicant is requesting a 58% impervious surface coverage. The Code allows for an increase in the maximum "provided the City has approved and implemented a storm water management plan affecting the subject site and a conditional use permit permitting an increase has been granted'. Because Thomas Lake is listed as a top priority in the Water Quality Management Plan and because of it's shallow depth, it has relatively little ability to assimilate watershed pollutant loadings without showing changes in its physical characteristics. The water quality in the lake is degraded, probably due to high pollutant loadings from the existing watershed. Staff felt there was sufficient room to accommodate a two cell 0.5 acre detention basin on the site which is far less than the size detention basin required to fully mitigate impacts to Thomas Lake, however, there are several opportunities to modify existing storm water ponds elsewhere in the watershed. These modifications would decrease loadings from those sub-watersheds sufficiently to compensate for inadequate treatment of run- off provided by the small detention basin planned on the site. Planner Tyree explained that the costs for off-site improvements are not known as yet. Once a detailed watershed analysis identifying all of the off-site mitigation opportunities is completed staff will determine what needs to be done and the costs involved. As part of the Conditional Use Permit process, it was noted that the City has the authority to require such improvements as the City deems necessary to fully mitigate water quality degradation. In conclusion, Planner Tyree noted that the applicant is willing to commit to the use of minimum disturbance/minimum maintenance practices to decrease the potential for generation and export of pollutants within the development. This includes the preservation of existing vegetation wherever feasible and landscaping with selected native species in order to eliminate the need for chemical applications, both fertilizers and pesticides. Forestry Supervisor Hove displayed a layout of the site showing the footprint of the proposed building and impervious surface. Supervisor Hove also identified the significant vegetation that would be removed from the site to facilitate this development. Ii. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of Novembe 14, 1994 Meeting Page 6 Pastor Borgschatz addressed the Commission commenting that Easter Lutheran Church as been in the community for over thirty years and is committed to staying in the community to meet the future needs of the congregation. To that end, the church is hopeful they will be able to create a good balance between serving their congregation and providing for a sensitive development on the site for the church's future home. Fred Hoizington explained that it has been a pleasure working with Easter Lutheran Church on this project. Since this is a very difficult site because of shoreline regulations, Mr. Hoizington continued, there is a benefit to having the church control the entire site. It was pointed out that the Commission has previously reviewed the concept plan for this site. Mr. Hoizington pointed out that there would be an area to the north to provide for on-site ponding, parking has been reduced from 445 stalls to 430 stalls and there would be two chambers constructed under parking lots to provide for slow release of the storm water. Mr.Hoizington commented that the City has a very rigid tree ordinance, more strict than most communities, however, the applicant feels this is very important and is willing to mitigate tree loss in accordance with the policy. One suggestion was that since the church doesn't expect to begin construction on this site for approximately 3-5 years, perhaps smaller plantings could occur earlier so that the trees would be of the size needed for mitigation once construction begins. The applicant has indicated they will protect as much of the vegetation within the 50 foot wetland edge as possible. It was also noted that although there is a concern for the tree loss on the west side of the site, there is not much latitude for the applicant since this is the designated access to the site. Mr. Hoizington explained that the phasing of construction on this site will begin on the easterly portion of the site and move west in four phases. Relative to the impervious surface, Mr. Hoizington commented that although 25% is the maximum allowed, the City has the ability to change that amount if they so choose. Currently this development is showing 58% impervious surface but Mr.Hoizington mentioned that it may increase slightly if the County requires additional right-of-way for Cliff Road. Mr. Hoizington also commented that if this site had single family lots on it the impervious surface would be equal to or greater than the 58% this development is proposing. Member Markell asked what the net impact would be to Thomas Lake. Coordinator Brasch indicated that there would be no further degradation to Thomas Lake, however some additional basin modification may be done to improve the water quality and that could be accomplished with off site ponding. Member Widem explained that this issue was reviewed by the Natural Resources Sub-Committee recently wherein the applicant, staff and the sub-committee made attempts to reduce the damage to the site, however very few options were presented for tree preservation and water quality. Supervisor Hove added that tree loss mitigation could not occur on site. Member Widem continued that it is the Commission's responsibility to determine when a development encroaches on natural resources. Although the decision may be subjective, the Commission needs to determine if this development impacts this site adversely and if this is an appropriate location for such intense use. Resident of 1465 Thomas Lane expressed his concern for development at this site particularly because of the run-off to Thomas Lake from Pilot Knob Road. He felt that there is a run-off problem that exists now and that this intense development on the site will only exaggerate the problem. Other concerns expressed were the aesthetics of this development on this site and if parking were reduced, where would overflow parking be facilitated. Members Stephen Thompson and John Rudolph removed themselves from discussion and voting of this item due to their conflict of interest. Thompson because he is a member of the church and Rudolph because he attends the church. IF. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 14, 1994 Meeting Page 7 Member Wallace asked why Easter Lutheran was so set in using this site for their future expansion. Pastor Borgschatz responded that when the congregation was looking at future expansion in 1989 they looked at an area within a two mile radius because that is where the majority of the congregation came from and their survey indicated that people will travel up to ten minutes to go to church. Additionally, Easter Lutheran is one of three ELC churches in Eagan and must be cognizant of where they relocate since in some situations they may need to get permission from other ELC churches. The church's site committee looked at approximately 10-12 sites in 1989 and concluded that this site would best suit their needs for a 1000 seat capacity facility only one mile from the current site. In 1991, Pastor Borgschatz continued, a purchase option agreement was entered into to keep the two properties together. That purchase option will expire the end of 1994. Member Vincent asked if the church had considered the option of reducing parking by providing transportation from their current church. Member Widem commented that that had been suggested at the sub- committee meeting. Pastor Borgschatz responded that when the church site is moved, they will most likely sell the existing church, eliminating the option of having people park and be transported to the new church creating a barrier for participation. Pastor Borgschatz commented that he felt the church would improve the appearance at this corner. Member Vincent stated that reduced parking on site could reduce the tree removal. Pastor Borgschatz responded that stacked parking had been considered however, it was cost prohibitive. Member Szott expressed concern with this proposal being exception to the policy. He asked that the focus remain on tree preservation and water quality issues and how this development impacts those items. Member Billy asked if the comments heard from Member Widem represent the concerns expressed at the sub- committee meeting. It appears, Billy continued, that staff and the sub-committee did try to work with the church to seek options and empathized with the church's needs and the dilemma the church was in with this site. Member Billy reiterated that the Commission would need to make a very subjective decision as to whether this site is appropriate for this development Member Widem reiterated the sub-committee's comments that the development is too intense a use for this site, the significant tree loss mitigation cannot be met on site, and the impervious surface far exceeds what is allowed. Mr. Hoizington commented that a lot of time was spent in talking with the DNR regarding the shoreline regulations and their agreement with flexibility if a good stormwater management plan is in place. The applicant will maintain the fringe of the shoreline, will leave vegetation and supplement over time and will try to work to an area of compromise on some of these issues. In conclusion, Mr. Hoizington stated that the site will not maintain it's rural look as it is today unless the City acquires the properties. Member Vincent asked of this issue needed further review by the sub-committee. Member Billy commented that he understood the issues felt the options were very clear and did not see a need for further sub-committee review. Member Widem expressed his concern for setting a precedent for not abiding by the tree removal and impervious surface policies as they currently exist. After further discussion, Jonathan Widem moved, David Szott seconded a motion to recommend to the Advisory Planning Commission and the City Council that the Preliminary Planned Development/Conditional Use Permit for Easter Lutheran Church be denied. Those voting Aye included Michael Vincent, David Szott, Lee Markell, Ted Billy, Jonathan Widem and Sherie Wallace. Stephen Thompson and John Rudolph abstained. The motion passed. WALDEN HEIGHTS PARK UPDATE Director Vraa introduced this item explaining that the issue for the Commission to review is whether the City should proceed with planning the construction of the existing portion of Walden Heights Park. I- Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 14, 1994 Meeting Page 8 Landscape Architect/Parks Planner Lilly reviewed the site characteristics noting the existing portion of Walden Heights Park is approximately 4-1/2 acres and bordered on the north by Cliff Road. The park is linear with a heavy tree line along the west perimeter and to the east and south are residential homes. Planner Lilly continued that the high point of the pad on the north and west reaches an elevation of approximatley 960 feet and then slopes to a lower elevation of approximately 926 feet. Of the 4.5 acres available, only 1.5 acres are level enough for field games. Lilly also identified a ten foot wide trail access on the very southwest corner of the park. In order to develop the turf, 1,000 cu.yds. of topsoil would need to be placed on the site. At a neighborhood meeting held on October 25, it was suggested that the City pursue acquisition of a portion of the Brown property through purchase and/or condemnation, however, it was noted that the City typically acquires land through dedication rather than purchase. The concept of purchase/acquisition of a portion of the Brown property was to develop all of the park at one time rather than provide for partial park development. Another request was that the City mow more often and simply improve the existing turf. Yet another suggestion was that the City should not do anything until all the property is acquired to allow for full development of the park. This suggestion was shared by residents who felt that the City should leave the park alone until access issues and total design could be worked out. Director Vraa continued that this Park Service District extends to Johnny Cake Ridge Road to the west. It was thought that the Brown Property would have been developed allowing for a land dedication to supplement Walden Heights Park. With the size of the Park Service District, Vraa continued,there is the potential for providing additional park property west of the existing parktieing the parcels together via trail once the Brown property is developed. The consensus of the neighborhood, Vraa continued, was that they did not want to lose the trees on site. It was also noted that the neighborhood is frustrated with the length of time it has taken for this park to be developed. Trailway connection and playground installation without significant grading of turf improvement would probably cost somewhere in the range of $4C,6-50,000. Grading to provide for open play and playground equipment would require inclusion of topsoi being imported to the site. Grading,seeding and topsoil will also run between $40-50,000. Director Vraa then reviewed the alternatives available for the Commission to consider. Brenda Brenberg explained that her main issue was safe access to a park without having to cross Cliff or Pilot Knob Roads. Member Vincent asked what type of park the residents envision. Ms. Brenberg responded that from her perspective, the need for an open green space was sufficient. Member Wallace commented that it appeared that property owners were most concerned about access to the park and some have commented that they would prefer to maintain the wild prairie like area. Member Widem asked if the Land Acquisition sub-committee had met regarding this issue and suggested they may want to look at it more thoroughly. Member Markell commented that there may be other parts of the Brown property more desirable for parkland rather than land directly west of the existing Walden Heights Park. Director Vraa added that staff will be looking at some pond improvement projects during the winter and there may be an opportunity to place topsoil on site similar to what was done at Holz Farm Park. If this could be accomplished, there would be substantial savings by not having to import topsoil onto the site. Member Billy commented that this issue has been discussed for some period of time and felt the Commission should look at alternatives available and make a recommendation. He supported the option of moving material from ponds to the site for turf establishment if it would be viable. Dennis Benkley, 1465 Thomas Lane commented that his home is on the north side of the site. He stated that some residents prefer leaving the site natural but thought a play area to the south would be acceptable. His concern was for park users cutting through private property to access the park. Member Rudolph opined that a compromise would be to provide an open green space and leave the balance natural. Member Vincent asked how long it would take to provide the open green space some residents are looking for. Director Vraa responded that if topsoil would be placed this winter, dried and graded in the spring, weed control would occur in June/July with seeding to occur in August, 1995. Access to the site, Vraa added, remains an issue. /p . Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 14, 1994 Meeting Page 9 Member Widem moved, Michael Vincent seconded the motion to defer this item to the Land Acquisition Sub-committee. Member Billy responded that he didn't feel there was any other information to be obtained. In response to a question regarding topsoil, Director Vraa stated it is not certain the pond improvement projects will occur, however if they do not, topsoil would have tq imported onto the site. After further discussion, Member Widem withdrew his motion. tV' Toad Johnson, 1479 Thomas Lane stated his property abuts the perimeter of the park. He stated he is comfortable with providing green space but asked if landscape screening can be provided for those residents directly abutting the park. Mr. Johnson also expressed his concern for potential drainage issues ff topsoil is placed as well as park users walking through private property to access the park. Member Markell suggested that staff work with residents regarding screening and drainage issues. Member Thompson expressed his concern for the cost differential between using soils from pond excavation and purchasing new topsoil. Member Szott cautioned against promising to create a play field in this area since it may not be feasible. After further discussion, Ted Billy moved, Lee Markell seconded a motion to make minimal improvements to Walden Heights Park if and when it is feasiblebut recognize that whatever improvements may be made may have to be redone in the future and may not meet all the needs of the neighborhood. Those voting Aye included David Szott, Lee Markell, Ted Billy, John Rudolph and Sherie Wallace. Those voting Nay included Jonathan Widem, Stephen Thompson and Michael Vincent. The motion passed. 1995 PARK/TRAILS DEDICATION FEES Director Vraa introduced this item and brought the Commission's attention to the background information regarding parks/trails dedication fees from other communities as well as the history of fees from 1988. After a brief discussion, Jonathan Widem moved, Ted Billy seconded a motion to defer the parks/trails dedication fees to the Land Acquisition sub-committee for review and that the sub-committee bring their recommendations back to the Commission in December. Member Rudolph suggested that the Commission would need to be cognizant of establishing a time line when deferring items from the agenda. Member Vincent suggested that the sub-committee provide a written response to the Commission. Member Wallace felt that may not be timely since the sub-committees quite frequently meet prior to the regular meetings. 1995 PROPOSED FEES AND CHARGES Superintendent Peterson explained thatthe 1995 fees and charges had been discussed by the Recreation Sub-committee prior to the meeting and they felt they were ready to make a recommendation. The fees for both 1993 and 1994 were reviewed for the Commission's furtherdiscussion. Superintendent Peterson explained that staff is recommending that fees and charges remain at current levels for 1995, however, would like Commission input on the possibility of charging non-resident fees. Research of other communities revealed that Commissions were of the opinion that residents should receive a tax based benefit and that the nominally higher non-resident fees are justified. It was also clarified with the State of Minnesota that non-residents can be charged up to twice as much as residents for the use of facilities constructed with grant assistance. After further discussion, Ted Billy moved, Sherie Wallace seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the proposed 1995 fees and charges as presented and to recommend the adoption of non-resident fees as presented. /l. Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 14, 1994 Meeting Page 10 TREE PRESERVATION POLICY ANALYSIS After a brief background on this issue by Director Vraa, Superintendent VonDeLinde added that this item is for information only and summarized the report included in the packet. Forestry Supervisor Hove reviewed in greater detail some of the areas of concern in the existing Tree Preservation Policy. Some questions that have arisen are whether or not the existing policy is strict enough, are the Tree Replacement Schedule standards tough enough and to what degree is the actual enforcement of the Tree Preservation Policy practicable. Currently, the Supervisor of Forestry performs several on-site inspections as the development process progresses during the planning phase, pre-construction, construction and post-construction phases. It was suggested that perhaps stricter standards may be beneficial. Member Thompson asked if there was a way to mitigate last minute tree removal, prior to development, similar to the Lentsch's Deerwood Point issue. Superintendent VonDeLinde indicated there had been some discussion about doubling or tripling tree replacement mitigation in these instances. Member Markell asked if tree mitigation should be increased in general. Superintendent VonDeLinde responded that what has happened in some instances is that larger trees specifically identified to be saved, were removed during the grading process. He concurred that some form of mitigation needs to be taken or stronger enforcement of the policy. Member Wallace expressed her frustration with the lack of respect for this ordinance when tress are being removed after the fact. She felt that a larger escrow or increased financial penalty should be pursued. Member Widem expressed his agreement with increasing mitigation for tree removal after the initial grading and suggested double mitigation of the entire site. Superintendent VonDeLinde cautioned that the Commission would need to be cognizant of reasonableness in mitigation. Supervisor Hove added that the Commission should be as strict as possible but make sure the recommendation is enforceable. Member Vincent suggested there be separate consideration for instances where trees are removed accidentally. John Rudolph suggested providing wording to waive miti ation penalty in unusual circumstances. Member Widem suggested that the City has the ability to do that notand opined that the intent of tree removal is irrelevant. Member Vincent expressed his concern for defending the intent of the ordinance. Jonathan Widem moved, Lee Markell seconded a motion to amend the Tree Preservation Policy to allow for mitigation for removal of trees, above what is indicated in the tree preservation plan, to be 4 times what is typically required. Those voting Aye included David Szott, Lee Markell, Jonathan Widem, John Rudolph and Sherie Wallace. Those voting Nay included Ted Billy, Michael Vincent and Stephen Thompson. The motion passed. In response to Member Thompson's comment that the mitigation of 4 times seemed high, Member Rudolph suggested that this level of mitigation should be tried and if it proves to be too high, it can be reassessed. Director Vraa asked what feedback the Commission would give the Council regarding the Tree Preservation Policy in general. Member Markell asked that the Natural Resources Sub-committee respond to that question. WESCOTT SQUARE LAND AVAILABILITY Director Vraa introduced this item and asked the Commission to consider whether they had any interest in acquiring five lots east of Wescott Commons Park. Member Widem suggested that if there was no urgency to this issue, perhaps the Land Acquisition Sub-committee could look at potential acquisition options and bring their recommendation back to the Commission. Member Rudolph indicated that this particular acquisition did not appear to be a high priority at this time,in his opinion. Member Wallace opined that this would be a perfect place to have a park because of the high density of youth in the area and supported seeing more park space provided if possible. Member Vincent concurred with Wallace's opinion, however, Member Szott expressed his concern for the dollars that would be expended to purchase this property. 0 . Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Minutes of November 14, 1994 Meeting Page 11 Afterfurtherdiscussion, Jonathan Widem moved, Stephen Thompson seconded with all members voting in favor to defer this item to the Land Acquisition Sub-committee for further review and recommendation. HOLZ FARM PROPERTY Director Vraa brought the Commission's attention to a memo written to the City Council relative to the City's acquisition of the Holz Farm property. After a brief video presentation of the Holz Farm property by Mr. Markell, he opined that this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to preserve a parcel of land like this for the future and suggested that the City move ahead with acquisition. Member Szott recalled that this parcel of land has been a high priority ever since it came to the Commission's attention and supported moving forward with purchase. Member Thompson supported moving ahead with the acquisition but wanted to procure the property as reasonably as possible. Member Billy opined that although he supported the acquisition, he did not think the City should pay $400,000 for the property. Afterfurther discussion, John Rudolph moved, Jonathan seconded with all members voting in favor to recommend to the City Council that the City acquire the Holz Farm property at as reasonable a price as possible. ROUND TABLE Director Vraa noted that the January 16, 1995 meeting was Martin Luther King Day and would need to be rescheduled. It was decided that the January Commission meeting would be held on Thursday, January 12. Director Vraa reminded Commission Member's whose terms expire that they need to re-apply to the City Council for re-appointment. The CIP was distributed to the Commission for their review prior to a meeting to discuss it. Director Vraa noted that the Park System Plan could act as a guide in looking at this document. A meeting date of November 28, 1994 at 6:00 PM was scheduled to review the CIP. As a final note, Director Vraa added that Parks Superintendent VonDeLinde will be leaving the City of Eagan to become the Anoka County Parks Director effective January, 1995. ADJOURNMENT With no further business to conduct, Lee Markell moved, Ted Billy seconded with all members voting in favor to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 11:45 pm. Secretary Date /3 DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS DECEMBER, 1994 1. The Recreation program registration change over to a priority for mail-in registration has progressed smoothly. Telephone inquiries concerning the change have been minimal. Persons calling to inquire have been supportive. No one has demanded a mass registration. 2. The Eagan Athletic Association is still without an in-house baseball director. This volunteer position requires top notch organizational skills. The size of the program, 2200 youth, inhibits the organization's ability to readily locate a qualified volunteer. 3. The USTA Junior Tennis grant funds of $300.00 have been expended. As proposed in the grant application, Eagan's Director of Tennis attended the USTA Tennis Leadership School in November; the grant paid the tuition. And, the department has purchased a dozen youth tennis rackets to be loaned to youth to enable participation in the Department's lesson program. 4. Staff attended a Parks, Natural Resource, Open Space Futures Workshop. Topics covered included the 1994 SCORP goals, benefits research by the DNR, Outdoor Recreation Trends, Demographic Trends and Deep Futures of the Outdoors. Commission member George Kubik presented challenging thought on Deep Futures. John VonDeLinde is chair of the MRPA section that planned this fine workshop. 5. Director Ken Vraa assumes the presidency of the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association on January 1, 1995. 6. Eagan seniors have been invited to attend several school district 196 fine arts performances this month. Eagan High's "Encore '94" is of particular interest to seniors who have attended previous Encore productions. 7. Staff met with the Eagan Hockey Association coaches on December 7 to review maintenance practice, outdoor ice time, the role of Winter Recreation Leaders and Department expectations of Association players and coaches. 8. Staff met with representatives of the Y to review 1994 programming and to explore options for 1995. Opportunities at the Y for Youth Development programs is of particular interest to the Department. 9. The Department has decided to end its Dog Obedience class offering. The death of Jann Matuseski, the City's dog trainer for the 8 or 9 years, the end of availability of the Community Room in the Fire Administration Building, and obedience training offered by the private sector, all contributed to the decision. The activity enjoyed a 16 year run. 10. Eagan Athletic Association in-house softball has approached the City requesting team benches on several elementary school ballfields. EAA has expressed interest in sharing the cost. Staff is in the process of approaching the school principals concerning cost sharing from the schools and authorization to install benches. The city will not share in the cost of the benches. Installation would likely be done by cityforces. M. North Pole Calling was held on December 7 and 8 at the Eagan Municipal Center. Over 400 calls were made to kindergartners and first graders in Eagan. Volunteers from the JC's, KC's, Rotary and Exchange Clubs as well as department staff made calls. A fun event for all involved. 12. Fall preschool programs have ended. Staff is looking forward to a break as we gear up for winter programs. 15. 13. Fall volleyball leagues have ended and registrations are coming in for the winter league. 14. Winter Recreation Leader applications continue to come in slowly jeopardizing the ability to staff all of the twelve warming shelters. If you know of good candidates willing to work after school, evenings, weekends and holidays have them contact Eagan Parks and Recreation as soon as possible. 15. Adult fall basketball comes to a close in December. 5-on-5 leagues have been in the new Black Hawk Middle School while the 3-on-3 leagues have been at Dakota Hills Middle School. The courts at Black Hawk are smaller and not as conducive to adult play as the one larger court at Dakota Hills. It is hoped that we can switch leagues around for the winter session. 16. Registration for the winter adult sports leagues occurs in December. Volleyball, broomball, basketball, boot hockey and 4-on-4 hockey league play will begin around the start of the new year. 17. If the snow is deep enough, Trapp Farm Park will open with a preview weekend December 16, 17 and 18. People are anxious to tube and enjoy winter. Weather permitting, the regular tubing and skating season will start Wednesday, December 21 and run through the third week in February. 18. Now that the year is winding down and the programs are coming to a close, December will offer its usual programs at Wescott Service Center. 19. Cooking class in the process of hiring a new instructor to take the place of Juanita Kulhanek who can no longer meet her obligation at Wescott. Juanita has agreed to train the new instructor and assist until they feel comfortable instructing alone. 20. Young Male Developmental Group and Female Essence are in the process of preparing for a fashion show to be sponsored by Fashion Bug. The young boys and girls will be modeling the latest fashions. 21. The preschool class are gearing up for their Christmas Party with their parents. The youth will be exchanging gifts and singing Christmas carols on the last day of preschool, which is December 23. 22. Wescott tutoring program is in the process of being finalized for the remainder of the school year. Dakota Hills Middle School has agreed to finance the tutoring program with licensed teachers from the school. 23. The City is in the final stages of negotiations for the lease of Wescott Service Center with the new management company, Steven Scott Company. 24. Efforts have been made to reach out to the Quarry neighborhood by way of identifying parents of Black Hawk Middle School youth who live in the area. Programs will begin early spring and summer. 25. Wescott All Star Basketball team will be participating in the Saint Paul 3-on-3 men's basketball for the Saint Paul Winter Carnival Festival and Heritage Foundation. 26. Preparation for the upcoming skating season is continuing. Park Maintenance Workers Steve Hadden and Alex Lammers have been busy inspecting and repairing the city's 15 hockey rinks. 27. The portable hockey rink has been set up at Lexington Park, thanks to the efforts of Park Maintenance Workers Don Buecksler, Scott Eppen and Gary Skogstad. 28. The fencing is up, the storage container is in place and full of tubes, and the Trapp Farm tubing hill is ready for another fun filled winter season. Park Maintenance Workers Don Buecksler, Dan Curtin, Gary Skogstad and Scott Eppen were all instrumental in preparing this popular facility for the season. / ~o. 29. Cross country ski trails have been cleared and signs have been installed at the city's four (Blackhawk, Northview, Patrick Eagan and Thomas Lake Parks) ski trails. Grooming of trails will once again be conducted by the City of Lakeville, in a cost saving cooperative equipment sharing arrangement. 30. Equipment maintenance and change over from mowing decks to snow blowing and brooming attachments is well under way, thanks to the dedicated work of Steve Taylor and Dan Curtin. 31. Park maintenance employees have assisted in two street plowing operations this season. The cooperative efforts between departments assures timely clearing of the city streets, while minimizing the expense involved in this massive effort. 32. The spirit of cooperation was also extended to the city's Police Department. Park Maintenance Workers Steve Madden and Don Bueeksler set up one of the Park Department's portable shelters in Rainbow Foods parking lot for a MADD exhibit that the Police Department was sponsoring December 10th and 11th. 33. Clean up of the Borchert Ingersoll site has begun, utilizing the Dakota County Sentence-to-Service (STS) crews. This will be an ongoing, lengthy process where we hope to continue using the STS crews for initial site clean up. 34. An orientation meeting was held with the Park Ranger Explorer Unit on December 8th. Fourteen new young adults have joined the program this fall. 35. On Wednesday, December 7th, students from the University of Minnesota made a 2-hour presentation to the staff and the Commission on the analysis of open space parcels contained in the city's draft Parks and Open Space Plan. 36. On December 1st, five of the department's staff (CJ. Lilly, Dorothy Peterson, Paula Nowariak, Jon Oyanagi and John VonDeLinde) attended a MRPA Workshop entitled "Plans and Prognostications - Parks of the Future". Our Commission's own George Kubik presented on the "Deep Future" of Parks and Recreation. 37. Winter preparations have been completed on new trees planted this summer and fall. Preparations for the coming cold weather included heavy mulching, watering, trunk wrapping, and bracing, and staking if necessary. 38. On November 22, the Forestry Division hosted a meeting of the South of the River Tree People. Approximately 30 foresters from central and southern Minnesota gathered at Trapp Farm Park to discuss tree survival in the urban environment. The meeting closed with a City tour highlighting our newer parks and top quality residential developments. 39. The final large planting project for the season has been completed as 43 larger deciduous and conifer trees have been transplanted into six City parks. One goal of this project was to create a size diversity in new trees being installed into the park system. 40. Staff continues to meet with consultants from Prairie Restorations, Inc. to develop an intensive management plan for the native prairie at Thomas Lake Park. A summary management plan report will be assembled during December, outlining future management activities to take place on this remnant prairie. city of eagan MEMO DATE: DECEMBER 8, 1994 TO: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCE COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION SUBJECT: 1995 PARKSITRAILS DEDICATION HISTORY At the November commission meeting, the Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission reviewed the formula for the dedication for parks and trails. This item was deferred to the sub-committee meeting of November 28. FOR REVIEW AND ACTION The sub-committee reviewed three tentative proposals for the establishment of parks dedication fees. After review of the proposals, there was a recommendation by the Sub-Committee to increase the fees as follows. Housing Type Land Value Unit Change Single Family $20,400 $875.00 Duplex $23,070 $791.00 Townhouse/Quad $28,317 $723.00 Apartment/Multiple $31,460 $726.00 Trails $105.00 Per Unit Industrial/Commercial .065/sq. ft./$2,831 Per Acre Trails $880.00/Acre The rationale for this fee structure recommendation by the sub-committee is based on: 1) The rapid increase of the value of land in Eagan. Sited was sale of property to the school district by a willing seller in the amount of approximately $25,000.00. Other land sales of greater value were reviewed to make the case for increasing the value of land and hence the parks dedication. 2) Review of other communities parks dedication for 1994 clearly shows that Eagan's parks dedication was below the "average" for growth communities. /4. 1995 PARKS/TRAILS DEDICATION PAGE 2 3) At least one developer has indicated that it would be cheaper for him to make a cash dedication, based on the 1994 rate, than to make a land dedication. Since the essence of the parks dedication policy is to make it equitable between developers who are providing land dedication and those that are providing cash dedication; it's important that the cash dedication be placed at an equitable level. FOR COMMISSION ACTION The Advisory Commission should review the above recommendations and formally adopt them for recommendation to the City Council, or revise them as is appropriate. cc: Tom Hedges, City Administrator Gene VanOverbeke, Finance Director KV:dm dl:prktrail MEMO City of pagan DATE: DECEMBER 12, 1994 TO: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION C. J. LILLY, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT/PARKS PLANNER SUBJECT: WALDEN HEIGHTS PARK BACKGROUND Staff has been reviewing Walden Heights Park to determine the feasibility of moving ahead with "minor improvements" to allow for some use of the park land by 1996. DISCUSSION The feasibility study for Walden Heights Park revealed a couple of problems during the week of December 5 - 9. These two problems are related to topsoil availability and access to the park at the southwest comer. To develop a multi-purpose grassed open space in the south half of Walden Heights, the Park will require 2,000 cubic yards of soil to be excavated from local ponds. From past experience with soil from pond excavations there will be a 50% loss of volume during the 1995 growing season resulting in a final cover of 6" of topsoil. In a conversation with Rich Brasch, there may not be more than 1,000 cubic yards available from the ponds. This would effectively reduce soil depth from 6" to 3" giving minimal coverage but acceptable results. The reduced topsoil depth could mean the turf would be more susceptible to drought conditions. Opportunities to acquire additional topsoil in the spring of 1995 will be pursued with the park being graded during late spring of 1995; if the commission still wishes to proceed ahead. Weeds that germinate will be eradicated in July 1995 with an application of roundup. Athletic field seeding will be accomplished in August 1995. In the spring of 1996 a pre- emergent herbicide will be applied to eradicate any remaining weeds. To get topsoil to the site, arrangements have been made with Mr. Jerry Thomas, owner of the Diamond T Stables who leases the property to the west of the park (Brown Property). During the winter, this site is used for sleigh and haywagon rides and Mr. Thomas has indicated the City could access the park through his gate on Thomas Lane. This would greatly improve access to the site since slopes are far less steep here than access from the north. The fence will be replaced as soon as work is done and any damage to turf areas will be repaired in the spring. otI Walden Heights Park Page 2 A second problem was encountered when surveyor, Lane Wagener, discovered that the fens line separating the Brown Property from Walden Heights Park is not located on the property line but about 40 feet east. With the real property line located, it reveals the 10 foot wide trail access from the southwest to be unusable as several large mature trees are growing within that easement. Consequently, grading to provide access will not be possible. This leaves only the northeast comer of the site for a designated pedestrian access. As the Commission will recall, there was concern for access to the park by the neighbors. The loss of this trailway creates additional concern. COSTS Costs associated with developing the 200' x 300' multi-purpose open space will include the following: Site grading $5,500 Herbicide and pre-emergent weed control 500 Rock picking, fertilizer, seeding and mulching 2,500 Sod for swale area 3.500 Total anticipated cost $12,000* * Does not include additional topsoil material, if required. This figure may be reduced somewhat if the site grading can tie into additional projects in 1995. FOR COMMISSION ACTION: To recommend the project continue/or be dropped from further consideration at this time. dl:waldn.hts TO: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION FROM: RICH BRASCH, WATER RESOURCES COORDINATOR DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION RE: REVIEW OF PRE- AND POST-PROJECT MONITORING DATA FOR CARLSON LAKE AND HEINE POND DATE: DECEMBER 14, 1994 As Commission members will recall, the City has carried out two separate projects in an effort to improve water quality in Carlson Lake and Heine Pond. In August, 1993, a small capital improvements project was completed at the outlet of Heine Pond that essentially reduced the watershed area contributing runoff to the Pond from over 2,000 acres to about 10 acres. The intent of the project was to virtually eliminate pollutant loadings to Heine Pond caused by backups from the mainstem of the storm sewer system adjacent to the water body. The second project was the application of alum to Carlson Lake on March 31, 1994. The purpose of that treatment was to prevent the formation of filamentous algal mats later in the summer season, to tie up potential internal loads of phosphorus, and to provide incentive for watershed residents to decrease their pollutant contributions to the lake through the storm drainage system. Staff would like to review with the Commission some of the pre- and post-project monitoring data for each project. While the data provide an insufficient basis to apply much statistical analysis, the trends in the data-when combined with historical observations on water body conditions-may provide some insight on the effectiveness of the projects in improving water quality. Several graphical representations of the data collected are attached for your review. Staff will review this and other information in more detail at the Commission meeting on December 19. Rich Brasch Water Resources Coordinator a3. Heine Pond . Total Phosphorus Phosphorus (mg/I) Number of Samples 1 0 0. 12 1... K.. ...1...%..:1~:'~•::Y.::%:::1:::1:::K::%:::/:::Y.::K:'~•:::1::•1:::K:::i•~•1:::Y.::K::%:::i:•::::•K.:~%:::~::: ~:.:K~~y::~1:~:1::: w:. :::1:::1: : 8 0.1 I High 6 0.08 - I Low 006 4 Mean x 0.04 # Samples :':•4"'::::F.::::::/1':',.':E::K:: 2 0.02 1990 11991 1992 1993 1994 Year Values from Mid-May thru Mid-September H PTP "H3 • e In on Water Clarity Secchi Depth (feet) Number of Samples 15 IHigh 6 Low I 10 H.. - - - - Mean Samples 5 11111112 ..................................................0 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 Year Values from Mid-May thru Mid-September HPSD.CH3 Heine Pond Chlorophyll a Chlorophyll A (ug/1) Number of Samples 100__------=- :::X"X:::I:::Y.:: IHigh 80 - 6 I Low K............................ rI..:V.. K..X V...h... ...h ...V... X... X:':1': 60 - - - Mean 4 40 # Samples K::X......:V:: #;Ems 0 1991 1992 1993 1994 Year Values from Mid-May thru Mid-September ALGA- -5.CH3 Carlson Lake Total Phosphorus Phosphorus (mg/I) Number of Samples 0. 1 10 . 0.08 8 I High 0.06 - fi I Low Mean 0.04 4 # Samples . . :::K .1.. M..M ......N:::1.. ...K..:1:::1:::1:::X::N:::1:::K::N:::/:::Y.::N::N:::?:::/:::K::N:::I:::Y.::Y.::N:::{:::Y.::Y.:: N:::1:::Y.::M.:: X:::I:::Y.: K:: N:::{:::1::: K:: N::' 0 • 02 0 0 91 92 93 94 Year Values from Mid-May thru Mid-September CTRCH3 Carlson Lake Water Clarity Secchi Depth (feet) Number of Samples 14 16 4 1 12 10 12 IHigh 0 1 8 . Low I K..... K::K::"" .....A:::f::: 6 Mean ~::K:::1... ...K.: Y:::~:::1::~K •:K Y•~:Y.::K::71':~1~: ~1' •'•...FI: •I:::.:::K:: M.::I 4 Samples 4 2 2 0 0 90 91 92 93 94 Year Values from Mid-May thru Mid-September CLS C '0~H3 CarIsoi Lake Chlorophyll a Chlorophyll a (ug/1) Number of Samples . H:"1:"Y.:: N:: N:::1 :1 N:: N . 1... f...N .N ..1...1... N.. X...1...1 N..X...1...1...N..H...?...l...Y...H.../...1...R..H...1...l.......A...1...l... H...1...f... M...,y...! f... R..H...I...I...N... 8 High ........•:«::w::w:::::::«: w:•w:::::::«::w:......::«:: TT 1 LOW - - Mean 20 "I*:::::::-,*,--,,**,*""""-,-:::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Samples ......:1:::N::H:::I:::Y.::N::H:::l:::l:::N::X:::I:::Y.::%:::1:::1::: 10 2 0 0 91 92 93 94 Year Values from Mid-May thru Mid-September ALGAE7.CH3 TO: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION FROM: RICH BRASCH, WATER RESOURCES COORDINATOR DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION RE: NEIGHBORHOOD POND MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE REQUESTS DATE: DECEMBER 12, 1994 Introduction Staff have received many requests from residents for City help in dealing with pond water quality concerns. Two were noteworthy, both because of the type of assistance the residents requested from the City as well as because each of the parties volunteered considerable time in working with the City to monitor and/or reduce overall pollutant loadings from the watershed through public education. The location of these ponds-Ponds JP-55 and LP-7.2- as well as pertinent technical data are attached in summary sheets. Staff felt that a thorough examination of these two requests by the Commission might provide guidance on how to address both these and other future requests in the context of existing work priorities, staff resources, and program objectives. Background Water resources management program staff have been approached on numerous occasions with requests from residents to take specific actions to improve the quality and/or aesthetic appeal of their backyard pond. Often, these ponds are small and shallow, and have no public access. In the past, staff have taken the following approach in addressing these requests: a. City staff generally view each resident request as an opportunity to provide information on the role that resident's can play in reducing pollution contributions to the City's lakes and ponds, including their own. b. Staff also try to provide some perspective on the City resources available to devote to the resolution of individual water quality problems. For example, the water quality plan contains a specific prioritized list of 30 long-term lake/pond enhancement projects that essentially provide guidance to City staff on where available resources should be committed. c. Often, residents are interested in having the City excavate their backyard pond to increase it's depth. As Commission members realize, dredging is often very expensive, with costs of $8,000 - $16,000 per acre-foot increase in wet volume fairly common for small projects. d. Many residents also express interest in more immediate "fixes" such as application of aquatic herbicides to control nuisance vegetation. Many inquire whether the City will provide this service for them. Staff's response is that the use of aquatic herbicides to control vegetation is neither practiced nor promoted by the City, and that there are usually good reasons-ecologic as well as aesthetic-to avoid herbicide use if at all possible. If the residents insist on the use of aquatic herbicides, staff usually provide guidance to make sure they are aware of the risks and regulatory requirements of herbicide use. Staff also provide a list of applicators licensed by the MN Department of Natural Resources. e. Staff virtually always try to encourage the caller to initiate a neighborhood-led, City-supported education effort targeting residents in the direct watershed of the water body of interest. In this case, City staff provide a watershed analysis to identify which areas drain to the pond. We also provide catch basin stenciling supplies as well as lawn soil testing kits and brochures which can be used/distributed by the residents. Limited follow-up is generally provided by the water resources technician. Natural Resources Subcommittee Meeting Results The Natural Resources Subcommittee met twice on this issue. During the first meeting on Wednesday October 5, subcommittee members visited the two ponds and talked briefly with residents who had initiated each request for assistance. At the second meeting on Thursday December 8, subcommittee members discussed in detail a variety of guidelines that could be used to address both these and other pond assistance requests. The subcommittee suggested the following be considered by the Commission in providing general guidelines on handling pond improvement requests: a. The City should provide some basic level of technical assistance to all residents who express an interest in improving the quality of their ponds. This assistance should emphasize education of the watershed residents in reducing pollutant loadings to the water body in questions at the source, and would be to some extent be, customized to the situation. In general, the City role should be one of support and encouragement of resident- led, on-the-ground efforts. b. Dredging of a water body by the City should not be carried out unless it is part of a high priority and current City effort aimed at reducing watershed pollutant loadings to one of the water bodies identified on the list of 30 long term enhancement projects in the Eagan Water Quality Management Plan. The expense of dredging is simply too great, given the resources available to support capital projects for water quality management program and the number of high priority lake improvement projects to which the City is already committed. c. The City should pursue one intensive neighborhood pond improvement project during the next two years. The main purpose of the project would be to couple limited City staff resources and vigorous resident support in a watershed, combined with close monitoring of the resource, to determine whether a multi-year effort can result in a observable improvement in the quality of a small pond. A commitment of support from the majority of watershed residents would be needed as a prerequisite. The subcommittee suggested a petition signed by at least 75% of the residents in the direct watershed indicating their willingess to cooperate with a pollution control effort would be appropriate. In addition, the City could consider an in-pond treatment other than dredging to encourage neighborhood participation. Monitoring of performance/participation and periodic reporting back to the Commission by the residents was suggested as a possibility. d. Until the issue receives closer attention, staff should continue to handle resident inquiries regarding the use of aquatic herbicides the same as in the past. Regarding the specific requests affecting Ponds JP-55 and LP-7.2, the Subcommittee had the following recommendations: 1. Pond JP-55 is an excellent candidate for an intensive neighborhood pond improvement project. The pond is typical of many others in the City that have been the subject of past requests for City assistance, and there are several parties that appear to be willing to spearhead an effort at the neighborhood level. If the residents are willing to work with the City under the guidelines proposed above, the project should begin this spring. In lieu of the dredging requested by the residents, the City should consider another in-pond treatment measure (such as an alum treatment) to aid improvement of the condition of the pond and provide incentive for long-term neighborhood involvement in pollutant source reduction activities. 2. Pond LP-7.2 may be affected most by runoff from a horse pasture to the north. In addition, the major perceived problem with the pond is the abundance of rooted aquatic vegetation (water lilies), the control of which is unlikely via the reduction of water column phosphorus levels. Never-the less, the subcommittee recommends that staff evaluate horse pasture runoff impacts to the pond and take steps to halt those discharges if any are found. Use of chemical or harvesting control methods for the 33. water lilies should be carried out by the residents at their own expense, with guidance by City staff. Finally, the City at some point in the future may want to consider an alum treatment to inactivate the phosphorus which is already in the pond and was found at abnormally levels during sampling. Finally, staff should assist the residents in an informal baseline watershed resident education program. Commission Action Requested The Commission is being requested to review both the general guidelines proposed by the Natural Resources Subcommittee and the specific recommendations for Ponds JP-55 and LP-7.2 and, as appropriate, endorse or modify those guidelines and recommendations. Rich Brasch Water Resources Coordinator cc. Jeff Horn Sharon Holbeck Pond Locations I T, VN\N ws ~ ' - : -111 C •+4Y O • I , N> LI tV «fl JY '/1> • &Olt - - S.J. y' ! ,r - • 08 N> rsr•r. w J Mw- _ / _ L•JY Ly wfJJ .t 'd • ~ v M i u q~. ~ is 1 ' > > L J d = wry, >M1 vim Y iL.~~ lam' d~ 9.> 1~' "~r e.? -3 J~ "=Fin. V'• • OY \ 8 C _ ~ ~ fi Y V43 4L 0 G /ra T.p C! P. 1 \ '4 100! d 91. yy _ _ II 1 u Zi •iu Q eY • L ~ 41 - _ LY y~ ••=yam ~ t s- \ t ~ a w- e POND INFORMATION SHEET CITY POND JP-55 WQMP Classification: Wildlife Habitat Area: 1.4 acres Mean Depth: 1.6 feet Maximum Depth: 2.5 feet Watershed Area: 19.3 acres direct 28 acres indirect Land Use: 94% single family residential 6% open undeveloped Watershed/Pond 33.7 Area Ratio sampling Grab in August, 1994 (160 ppb TP, 8 ppb OP) TN:TP Ratio 6.4 Estimated Residence Time 44 days Notes: The main issue with this pond appears to be the proliferation of emergent and floating vegetation. Conversations with shoreline residents indicate it may also have decreased in depth in the last 5 years. Neighborhood contact is Jeff Horn. POND INFORMATION SHEET CITY POND JP-55 WQMP Classification: Wildlife Habitat Area: 1.4 acres Mean Depth: 1.6 feet Maximum Depth: 2.5 feet Watershed Area: 19.3 acres direct 28 acres indirect Land Use: 94% single family residential 6% open undeveloped Watershed/Pond 33.7 Area Ratio Sampling Grab in August, 1994 (160 ppb TP, 8 ppb OP) TN:TP Ratio 6.4 Estimated Residence Time 44 days Notes: The main issue with this pond appears to be the proliferation of emergent and floating vegetation. Conversations with shoreline residents indicate it may also have decreased in depth in the last 5 years. Neighborhood contact is Jeff Horn. 3-7. city of aagcin THOMAS EGAN Mayor PATRICIA AWADA SHAWN HUNTER SANDRA A. MASIN THEODORE WACHTER December 14, 1994 Council Members THOMAS HEDGES City Administrator MR. JEFF HORN E. J. VAN OVERBEKE 671 CAMPTON CT. City Clerk EAGAN, MN 55123 Dear Mr. Horn: Enclosed is a staff report to the City's Advisory Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Commission regarding proposed approaches for addressing requests from residents for City assistance in improving the quality of backyard ponds. The paper also addresses your specific request for Pond JP-55. The Commission will be discussing the contents of the paper and providing direction to City staff at its monthly meeting on Monday, December 19. We would appreciate your attendance at the meeting Monday night and your input on the proposals outlined in the paper. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. but I expect that this agenda item won't be up before 7:45 p.m. If you have the time, I hope you'll be able to attend. Please contact me at 681-4300 if you have any questions or would like any additional information. Thanks for your interest and patience, Jeff. Sincerely, Rich Brasch Water Resources Coordinator cc. Ken Vraa Advisory Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Commission 3~. MUNICIPAL CENTER THE LONE OAK TREE MAINTENANCE FACILITY 3830 PILOT KNOB ROAD THE SYMBOL OF STRENGTH AND GROWTH IN OUR COMMUNITY 3501 COACHMAN POINT EAGAN, MINNESOTA 55122.1897 EAGAN, MINNESOTA 55122 PHONE: (612) 681.4600 PHONE: (612) 681.4300 FAX: (612) 681-4612 Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer FAX: (612) 681-4360 TDD: (612) 454-8535 TDD: (612) 454-8535 city of aagan THOMAS EGAN Mayor PATRICIA AWADA SHAWN HUNTER SANDRA A. MASIN THEODORE WACHTER December 14, 1994 Council Members THOMAS HEDGES City Administrator MS. SHARON HOLBECK 4852 WELLINGTON CT. E. J. VAN OVERBEKE City Clerk EAGAN, MN 55122 Dear Ms. Holbeck: Enclosed is a staff report to the City's Advisory Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Commission regarding proposed approaches for addressing requests from residents for City assistance in improving the quality of backyard ponds. The paper also addresses your specific request for Pond LP-7.2. The Commission will be discussing the contents of the paper and providing direction to City staff at its monthly meeting on Monday, December 19. We would appreciate your attendance at the meeting Monday night and your input on the proposals outlined in the paper. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. but I expect that this agenda item won't be up before 7:45 p.m. If you have the time, I hope you'll be able to attend. Please contact me at 681-4300 if you have any questions or would like any additional information. Thanks for your interest and patience, Sharon. Sincerely, Rich Brasch Water Resources Coordinator cc. Ken Vraa Advisory Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Commission 4b MUNICIPAL CENTER THE LONE OAK TREE MAINTENANCE FACILITY 3830 PILOT KNOB ROAD THE SYMBOL OF STRENGTH AND GROWTH IN OUR COMMUNITY 3501 COACHMAN POINT EAGAN, MINNESOTA 55122-1897 EAGAN. MINNESOTA 55122 PHONE: (612) 681-4600 PHONE: (612) 681-4300 FAX: (612) 681-4612 Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer FAX: (612) 681-4360 TDD: (612) 454-8535 TDD: (612) 454-8535 TO: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION FROM: RICH BRASCH, WATER RESOURCES COORDINATOR DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION RE: OPENING OF BIDS FOR 1994/95 WATER QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS DATE: DECEMBER 14, 1994 Bids for several water quality projects, including the first phase of capital improvements under the Schwanz Lake Water Quality Improvement Project, will -be opened at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 16. Staff will update the Commission on the results of the bid opening at the December 19 meeting. Rich Brasch Water Resources Coordinator 41. MEMO TO: ADVISORY PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION JOHN K VONDELINDE, SUPERINTENDENT OF PARKS DATE: DECEMBER 14, 1994 SUBJECT: SKATING RINK - SOUTH OAKS PARK I= The Parks and Recreation Department is proposing that a pleasure rink be created and maintained, on a trial basis, at South Oaks Park during the 1994/95 winter season. Discussion Currently, there is a lack of outdoor skating rinks in the southeast corner of the city. The nearest city operated rinks are located at Goat Hill Park on Lexington Avenue and Bridle Ridge Park on Elrene Road. This leaves an area of approximately five square miles which is devoid of any public skating opportunities (see map which follows). The Needs and Demands Analysis Chapter of the draft Parks and Recreation System Plan has identified the need to add skating facilities in the southeast corner of the city. In addition, a public petition was received last winter, from residents living in the South Oaks Park area, requesting that a rink be developed in their area of the city. Winter Program Evaluations conducted by staff over the past several seasons have also strongly encouraged the addition of a pleasure skating rink in the southeast area of the community. Evaluation The addition of a skating rink at South Oaks Park would be a positive step towards improving the distribution of pleasure skating opportunities for the city's residents. Adequate evidence exists to support this addition to the Eagan Park and Recreation System. The discontinuance of the bandi rink at the Lexington/Diffley Site creates the capacity to add another small pleasure rink to the system without increased operations costs, overtime, or additional equipment needs. After reviewing several park locations in the southeast area of the city, staff have concluded that South Oaks Park would be the most suitable location. Reasons cited are as follows: • flat, large open space available • adequate on-street parking • illumination from adjacent street lights • good open view to surrounding homes • relatively central location in the southeast corner of city Recoinmen To add a ur to South Oaks Park in 94/95 to be operated on a trial basis. Ken J onDeLinde Director of Parks and Recreation perintendent of Parks JKV/nab isa.,csa MEMO _ city of eagan DATE: DECEMBER 2, 1994 TO: TOM HEDGES, CITY ADMINISTRATOR FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION SUBJECT: WINTER RECREATION' LEADERS ISSUE The staff is facing the lack of warming house attendants for the 94-95 skating season. As of today, and with little prospects of attracting any additional attendants there's only sufficient staff to open six winter sites. BACKGROUND The department typically hires between 30-35 staff to act as warming house attendants for the winter recreation programs. Two staff are assigned to each of eleven skating sights with additional staff assigned to the Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill. This allows for substitutes to fill in as needed since many of the warming house staff are students who require time off for studies etc. Currently, we have a total of 20 applicants, 12 of which are returning from the previous season. Recreation Supervisor, Jon Oyanagi, has been recruiting applicants through the newspaper, postings at Eagan High School, Vo-Tech, Inver Hills Community College as well as making contacts with the Eagan Athletic Association and Eagan Hockey Association to spread the word the City is seeking applicants. Winter Recreation Leader pay range is $5.59 to $6.61 per hour which is generally competitive with other cities We believe the cause of some of our problems is the high demand for entry level service workers at fast food restaurants, retail stores, grocery markets, etc. Typically, the department receives applications at the conclusion of November and early December. However, the dramatically low number of returning staff and the lower than normal applications is very discouraging and we are very doubtful we will get additional applicants. Therefore, alternatives must be explored in advance to allow for discussion by decision-makers regarding changes in operation and communication to the public of any changes in maintenance operations. ALTERNATIVES There are three alternatives that are being reviewed at this time. -Briefly these are 1) Increase the hourly wage to be competitive with fast food restaurants in hopes of attracting additional applicants; 2) Open as many sites as possible with existing staff, close the remaining sites ceasing any maintenance operations; 3) Open as many sites as possible maintaining all the rinks with lights turned on by timer. Keep shelters closed if no attendant. Option One - In a typical season, there are approximately 5,650 warming house hours. Raising the average wage range by $1.00, plus the additional fringe benefits for FICA, etc. would cost an additional $6,000 on an annual basis. This assumes all position and hours will be utilized. There are some concerns that even this may not attract enough attendants. Its noted that Taco Bell is now advertising evening positions at $7.00 per hour and given the lateness and inability to advertise this rate it still may not attract enough applicants to staff all facilities. There's also concern that this may distort the wage rates for summer employment and other seasonal positions. Option Two - Open as many sites as possible and close the remaining sites ceasing any maintenance operation. Given the current staffing levels, Woodhaven, Lexington, Pilot Knob, Carnelian and Ridge Cliff Parks would not have staffing available. Not maintaining the ice rinks would provide savings for maintenance. Obviously, the downfall is that the public anticipates these rinks will be open and a skating surface maintained. Option Three - Open as many warming shelters as possible but continue to maintain all rink locations for skating purposes. The warming shelter will not be open, but the rinks will still be skateable. There is concern that the warming shelters, even if posted that there's no attendant available to open it, may be subject to vandalism or attempts to enter the building to change skates, etc. In addition, the City would have to change lighting systems to timers, so the lights would come on and go off automatically to allow for the skating to occur. The cost of changing the lighting systems would be variable but estimated at between $200- $600 per sight dependent upon circumstances in which the existing lighting now occurs. The issue of liability and incidence of vandalism would be more likely to occur at unsupervised sites. SUMMARY The City has not received sufficient applications to fill the 30-35 positions needed to cover the winter recreation program sites. With the current staff levels, five sites have no staff to supervise them. Salary range of $5.59 to $6.51 per hour is not high enough to compete with other entry level service positions at fast food restaurants, retail stores and grocery markets. The City has 3 alternatives; to increase the hourly wage and re-advertise all their positions, (understanding the difficulties this may cause); open as many sites as staff will permit; close and cease maintenance operations at the remaining sites or open as many sites as possible converting lights to a timer basis and maintain the skating rinks recognizing there may be an increase in liability and vandalism to the facilities. Note: The staff has worked vigorously trying to attract applicants for this position. Postings at the high school, community college, announcements at the senior citizens center, contact with EAA and EHA have been made. Staff will continue to agressively seek applicants for the warming shelters. FOR COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND ACTION Provide direction and assistance to staff in reviewing the alternatives presented. Staff is planning for rinks to open on December 21st, weather permitting. d l /bvwtrrec