04/20/1998 - Advisory Parks & Recreation Commission
MEMO
city of eagan
TO: ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION
FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION
DATE: APRIL 16,1998
SUBJECT: APRIL 20 COMMISSION MEETING
The Regular meeting will be preceded by a tour of two park locations. We will meet at 6:00 p.m.
in the east lot and take the van to Thomas Lake Park to see the location of a proposed storm
sewer outlet. The Commission will then go to the Skyline Displays property to look at the
property being discussed for "Discovery Park." Two members of the sub-committee walked the
site last week and felt the Commission should look at it together.
The regular meeting agenda is somewhat shorter then last month, but still packed with a number
of items for consideration. Although there are two items under the Consent Agenda, one motion
to approve would be in order.
Under Old Business there are three items. The first is the policy statement on the utilization of
tree mitigation funds. This item was addressed at the February Commission meeting and
referred to sub-committee, which met twice. Direction was provided to staff and a proposal
generated. Gregg Hove has prepared a memo for review and if approved, it should be a
recommendation to the City Council.
The second item is the request from travel baseball to participate in the cost for lighting Little
Goat baseball field. Last month the Commission adopted the criteria for evaluating requests and
asked staff to prepare a memo for review by the Commission. The Commission is asked to
review this memo and recommend any changes deemed appropriate and forward to the City
Council for approval.
The third item is the reclamation of the wood beams from the fire administration building. Staff
hopes to have a more complete report for the Commission as follow-up from last month's action
to proceed with the project.
There are two items under New Business which have been referred to the Commission by the
City Council. One pertains to a proposal from the YMCA requesting $75,000 to help fund a teen
center at the Y. When the Council heard the request at a workshop meeting, another proposal
was presented by Michael Vincent to use the upstairs mezzanine at the Civic Arena for a teen
center. Attached is a memo from City Administrator Hedges and minutes from the workshop
session to help familiarize the Commission with the issue. As indicated in Mr. Hedges' memo,
the Council would like the Commission's perspective on a teen center. It might be appropriate
for the Commission to begin the process by preparing a narrative report on the issue along with
any recommendations.
The second item pertains to the need to construct a larger storm drain outlet on Thomas Lake.
The Engineering Department has been studying the problem and the need to increase the out
flows from Thomas Lake to alleviate up-stream flooding problems at east Thomas Lake. A
representative from the City's consulting engineering firm will be present to review the design
solution and request input from the Commission as to the type of design to use.
The sub-committees have been active since the last meeting. It would be appropriate for the
committee chairs to update the entire Commission and identify future agenda items or actions
that need to be taken. Staff will also provide brief updates on parks development and water
resources issues.
Each summer the Commission has taken tours of Eagan parks prior to the regular meeting times.
Staff is inquiring if members would like to do this again this year. If so, what time would you
like to begin and what parks would you like to visit. Also, for your information, Steve Knutson
has recently submitted his resignation from the Commission.
April is the traditional month for the Commission to select the Arbor Day poster winner from
Eagan third graders. This year staff will narrow the choice down from each school, which will
still allow the Commission to pick the poster winner. This is scheduled after the regular meeting
in the Council Chambers conference room.
Just a reminder that next month's meeting is May18.
Respectfully submitted.
Ken Vraa
Eagan Parks and Recreation
Department Happenings
April, 1998
1. Aagard Sanitation, Inc., a refuse hauler operating in the City of Eagan, has begun a donation program
to the Parks and Recreation Department. For each new net residential customer, Aagard will donate a
monetary amount. The company anticipates that a donation will be made on a monthly basis. Staff
have proposed to Aagard that the donations be earmarked for a scholarship fund.
2. Assignment of facilities for Eagan Athletic, Mendota Athletic and Eastview Athletic; youth
associations in which Eagan children participate, has been completed. EAA soccer will have the most
need for creative scheduling, as registrations were not capped to meet summer soccer field space.
Mendota and Eastview's Eagan participants are less that 10% of their activity registrants. Field space
allotted was minor, fulfilling the need the associations expressed.
3. MnDot has verbally approved the Kiosk locations at Silver Bell & Highway 13 and 494 and Pilot
Knob. The permit forms to become "official" will be submitted when a construction date can be
finalized. Progress is being made on the City trail map. The computer system is a tricky layered
system in which to work.
4. Soccer kickboards are being installed at Ohmann Park and at the High School. EAA travel soccer
will perform some of the labor and will reimburse the City for time and materials.
5. Augie's Concertina Band performed for the Eagan Seniors at Oak Woods on March 24. A good mix
of Oak Woods and Community seniors attended.
6. The refresher 55/Alive Mature Driving course has become very much in demand. The Department
will offer 2 refresher seminars in the fall to accommodate the interest.
7. Staff training on the LOGIS facilities system will occur on April 16 and 17.
8. The Department will direct 238 adult softball teams in 33 divisions this summer. That is 11 fewer
teams than a year ago. The reduction is in the women's league and a men's open league which did
not materialize this year.
9. Sonya Rippe, temporary staff charged with directing the adult softball leagues, has done a tremendous
job putting everything together, on time and in excellent order.
10. At this writing, the cloudy skies have once again prevailed and Evening With the Stars could not be
held.
11. Valley Athletic Association has inquired whether the Department can provide NYSCA coaches
training for their Association. Apple Valley P&R has chosen not to offer the service. Staff
said,"yes", however, we have no idea what impact this will have.
12. The Department is providing field space for a Men's Church Softball League at Lexington Diffley
Athletic Fields on Monday nights. The 8 churches in the league are all located in Eagan.
13. Improvement Contract #98-04 for Rahn Park tennis courts was rejected because bids cam in higher
than expected. Thefollowing are average bid prices from four contractors. Grading $29,530, Paving
$32,941, Fencing $9,414, Restoration $3,075, Total Average $74,960. To reduce costs, City crews
will grade the site and lay sod. Price quotes were received from four fence and four paving
contractors. The two lowest price quotes were from Bituminous Roadways at $19,590 and Dakota
Fence at $6,259. The total paving and fence cost is $25,849. Even though we are providing some
labor, the savings are considerable.
14. The annual "4 Your Parks" event is scheduled for Saturday, April 25. Groups or individuals
interested in volunteering to clean a park may register by calling 681-4300.
15. The Arbor Day celebration is scheduled for Saturday, April 25 at Trapp Farm Park. If you are able to
volunteer to help that morning please contact Gregg Hove.
16. The annual tree sale is scheduled for Saturday, May 2. The new offering of a "landscape package"
was well received.
17. The Spring Festival at Holz Farm is scheduled for Sunday, May 17.
18. Holz Farm will be the site of the annual Eagan Garden Club plant sale on May 9.
3.
19. Bids for construction of the two new service buildings at the Lexington Diffley Athletic Complex will
be opened on April 28.
20. The City/Department will again be contracting with the Dakota County Sentence to Serve Program
for this provision of work crews.
21. Staff began mowing of parks on April 13, one of the earliest dates in recent years. The onset of
mowing so early in the season will necessitate the use of overtime by full-time staff to accommodate
all of the spring maintenance activities.
22. Staff will be constructing and installing wooden enclosures for satellite toilets in several parks on a
trail basis. The enclosures are meant to prevent tip-overs and to "blend" the toilets into the park
especially in neighbor settings.
23. Newly designed and constructed archery bale stands have been installed at Walnut Hill. A new flame
retarding treatment discovered by Lee Markell will also be tried.
24. The grading of ball field surfaces is nearing completion.
25. The maintenance agreement with Dakota Hills Middle School will be continued this year. School
staff was pleased with the results of last year's program.
4.
ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION
April 20,1998
CONSENT AGENDA
LCMR GRANT
1. The Commission endorse the letter of support and commitment from the
LCMR grant submitted by Dakota County
DEER REST POND ADDITION - RON ROTH & JAMES SCHMITT
1. This development shall be responsible for a cash parks dedication.
2. This development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication.
3. Individual lot tree preservation plans shall be required at the time of building
permit application for Lots 3 and 4.
4. This development shall be subject to a cash dedication for water quality.
5. Grading within the drainage and utility easement associated with the
stormwater pond that lies partially on the property is prohibited.
TO: ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION
FROM: RICH BRASCH, WATER RESOURCES COORDINATOR
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
RE: ENDORSEMENT OF LETTER OF SUPPORT-DAKOTA COUNTY
WETLAND HEALTH MONITORING PROGRAM PROGRAM
(CONSENT AGENDA)
DATE: APRIL 15, 1998
Background
Dakota County has submitted a grant funding proposal to the Legislative Committee on
Minnesota Resources (LCMR). The purpose of the project is to evaluate wetland health
using biological data gathered by citizen volunteers collected under an approved protocol,
to increase the biodiversity in wetlands in urban areas, and to conduct a public wetland
education effort. The project is similar to the Wetland Assessment Project in which the
City was involved last year and will be involved this year. The LCMR grant project
would help fund an expanded project in 1999 and 2000. The City of Eagan has been
listed as a cooperator in the LCMR grant application, a copy of which is attached. The
City's contribution toward the project is estimated at approximately $4,000, virtually all
as in-kind service. This level of effort is similar to the level of effort expended by the
City in the past on the Wetland Assessment Project. Dakota County has asked the City to
submit a letter of commitment and support regarding its involvement in the project.
Commission Action Requested
Staff requests that the Commission endorse the attached letter of support and
commitment for the LCMR grant submitted by Dakota County.
Rich Brasch
Water Resources Coordinator
J
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LCMR Proposal 1999
Title: Dakota County Wetland Health Monitoring Program
Project Manager: Charlotte Shover
Affiliation: Dakota County Environmental Education Program
University of Minnesota Extension Service, Dakota County
Mailing address: 4100 220th Street West, Farmington, Minnesota 55024
Telephone number: 612/891-7734
E-Mail: cshover@cxtension.umn.edu
Fax: 612/463-8002
Web Address: http://www.extension.umn.edu/-rdakota/
Dakota County?
Total Biennial Project Budget: $200,000 LCMR
SMatch if applicable: Time by city and county staff and community volunteers
Total: $200,000
Project Summary and Results:
To evaluate wetland health using biological data gathered by citizen volunteers using approved
protocol, to increase biodiversity in wetlands in urban areas, and to conduct a public wetland
education effort.
Outline of Project Results:
• Continue refinement of a protocol that citizens can use to monitor wetland health, not unlike the
citizen assisted lake monitoring program already in place, that will result in local governments
gathering more data on wetland health at a reduced cost.
• Working with their local city staff, citizen volunteers will use approved biological metrics for
monitoring and gathering baseline data on at least thirty selected wetlands in Dakota County
each year in 1999 and 2000. These wetlands will be selected based on:
• the variety of wetland types and the quality of the wetlands,
• the variety of Best Management Practices (BMPs) in place on the surrounding upland areas,
and
• the variety of land use practices in the watershed that impact the wetland.
Citizen volunteer teams will be lead by local teachers or staff from local nature centers or the
Minnesota Zoo. Monitoring will follow protocol approved by the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency and the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
• Wetland consultants will:
• Provide the quality assurance procedures to determine the reliability of the citizen-gathered
data.
• Do an analysis of all data collected in 1999 and 2000, as well as any data gathered through
the same process in 1997 and 1998.
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0207 '98 08:44 ID:DKTA CO-EXTENSION SVCES FAX:6124638002 PAGE 3
• Do an analysis of the effectiveness of all existing BMPs in place in 1999, and give
recommendations for installing new BMPs and bioengineering practices using native plants
in and around at least six selected wetlands.
• Cities will install at least six BMPs in 2000 based on consultant recommendations and city
goals for managing the wetlands. BMPs may be installed by developers, cities, or through
grant funding.
• A public education campaign will consist of
• Two field days for students in each year, 1999 and 2000,
• One teacher workshop using the curriculum WOW! Wonders of Wetlands and Project WET
(Water Education for Teachers),
• An insert in the local newspapers of all cooperating communities in 2000,
• City-directed education outreach to residents in watersheds of targeted wetlands,
• Resource materials for the Dakota County Environmental Education Program, the Dakota
County Library Environmental Resource Collection, and for participating cities, schools,
and agencies, and.
• Supporting a wetland education framework for participating Dakota County schools.
Accompanying Budget:
Technical wetland consultant analysis and recommendations $60,000
Citizen monitoring coordination, stipends for team leaders $60,000
Miscellaneous - equipment, mileage, film/processing $10,000
Public wetland education activities $10,000
installation of BMPs or bioengineering practices, 6 wetlands $40,000
Overall project coordination, clerical support, office materials $20,000
Context:
A. Significance
This grant request is for Phase 11 of a three-phased plan to increase public knowledge of wetlands,
to gather baseline and trend information on wetland health, and to increase the biodiversity of
wetlands in Dakota County.
In the first phase in 1996 and 1997, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota
Audubon Council piloted a citizen-based biological monitoring protocol for evaluating wetland
health using federal grant funding. The goal of the project was to develop a cost-effective,
scientifically accurate method that citizens can use to monitor the health of wetlands and provide
information for local decision making about wetland management. In 1996, an initial testing of the
protocol was conducted in Scott County. In 1997, the "beta testing" was done in Dakota County by
five volunteer teams from the communities of Lakeville, Burnsville, and Eagan; the Minnesota
Zoo; and the Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District. The project was coordinated
locally by the Dakota County Environmental Education Program.
There is demonstrated continued interest and support from the federal government to develop and
refine the protocol, but now with local control and implementation. In 1997 Dakota County was
awarded a grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency for continued monitoring
in 1998. The project is coordinated again by the Dakota County Environmental Education Program
with the Minnesota Zoo supporting the citizen monitoring teams. The Minnesota Zoo and the cities
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of Burnsville, Eagan, Farmington, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights, and Rosemount plan to
have volunteer monitoring teams.
This LCMR grant request is for Phase Two of the project. Funding in 1999 and 2000 will:
• Further refine the process of citizen wetland health monitoring,
• Provide an analysis of BMPs already in place and recommendations for installation of new
BMPs,
• Identify and install bioengineering practices using native plants that will increase wetland
diversity, obtaining all necessary permits, and
• Set the stage for Phase Three, when the citizen monitoring process can be firmly established in
cities finding this a useful tool and BMPs and bioengineering practices can be monitored for
effectiveness over time.
B. Strategy: Decisionmaking Tools
• Benchmarks and indicators: Create benchmarks, including biological indicators, for key natural
resources to permit effective monitoring and assessment of environmental trends and
environmental factors affecting human health.
C. Time: July, 1999 to December, 2000
• The extended time allows for monitoring to take place in late July or early August and data
analysis and report writing to reflect monitoring over two summers, 1999 and 1990.
D. Bud&ct History
• MPCA/Audubon Council US EPA Grant: $368,879
Federal S: $276,659 state match: $92,220
• Dakota County US EPA Grant: $108,000
Federal 81,000 local match: $27,000from cities, Dakota County
• LCMR Budget History: $0
• Cooperation
• Charlotte Shover, Dakota County Environmental Education Program
• Brian Watson, Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District
• Chris Kline, Minnesota Zoo
• Cheryl Miller, MN Audubon Council
• Cities of:
Terry Schultz, Burnsville Rich Brash, Eagan
Lena Larson, Farmington Gary Johnson, Inver Grove Heights
Jim Danielson, Mendota Heights Tim Brown, Rosemount
• Letters from cooperators indicating their levels of involvement in the project and the names of
each responsible party arc pending and will be sent once official approval has been granted by
each governing body.
Location:
Dakota County, Minnesota Zoo, cities of Burnsville, Eagan, Farmington, Inver Grove Heights,
Mendota Heights, Rosemount
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Sustainability of the Dakota County Wetland Health
Monitoring Program
The Dakota County Wetland Health Monitoring Program has the basic ingredients of a sustainable
project.
The citizen wetland bealtb monitoring protocol:
Minnesota water quality standards, Minnesota Rules Chapter 7050, do not have biological
criteria as a numeric standard" but there is a narrative standard. The Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency has completCtwo projects intended to define biological reference conditions
and to define and refine biological metrics that can be used as a multimetric index. This work
is the basis from which the citizen methods have been developed. The Dakota County project
will evaluate data against current versions of state developed biological metrics.
Cities are eager to find methods of assessing basic measures of wetland health with minimal
expenditures. Since some cities started the citizen monitoring process in 1997 and others will
begin in 1998. By the year 2000, with three or four years of experience, cities will be able to
determine the long term value of a citizen monitoring program and the data collected. This
recommendation will be beneficial to other cities and state and federal agencies interested in
citizen monitoring as a low cost but effective way to gather basic information on the health of
local wetlands.
Evaluation of BMPs, installation of new BMPs and bioengineering practices:
Cities have asked for an evaluation of BMPs in place and recommendations for new practices
that would provide for healthier wetlands over time. The evaluation and recommendations will
provide for stronger, more effective wetland protection measures in the future. Pilot projects
will serve as demonstration sites and the information gathered in Phase Three will lead to better
wetland management planning by a broad range of local government units.
Public education activities:
Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) is a national water resources education program
coordinate in Minnesota by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Often the
curriculum WOW/ The Wonders of Wetlands is included in Project WET workshops for
educators. By providing materials and training opportunities, teachers will have the skills to
continue integrating wetland education into their curricula. Teachers participating as team
members or team leaders on the citizen monitoring teams will receive expert instruction and
hands-on experiences that can be transferred to classroom activities. The relationship between
local educators and city staff will provide a basis for students to do research in their community
as they work to achieve the graduation standards. Resources deposited in county libraries,
agencies, and cities will continue to provide background information on wetland health. An
insert in the local newspapers will provide basic information on wetland health and wetland
educational activities within their community. Local decision makers will be kept informed of
the information being collected and the will be able to draw from the expertise and interest of
informed citizens as they consider wetland issues in their community.
city of aagan
THOMAS EGAN
Mayor
March 25, 1998 PATRICIA AWADA
BEA BLOMQUIST
SANDRA A. MASIN
THEODORE WACHTER
Council Members
Dear LCMR member: THOMAS HEDGES
City Administrator
The City of Eagan is pleased to be a cooperator on the Dakota County Wetland E. J. VAN OVERBEKE
Health Monitoring Program grant request to the LCMR. Our city has participated city Owl
in the first phase of this project in 1997 and will continue its participation in 1998. The
City and its volunteers are very enthusiastic about being part of this cutting edge effort to
develop a cost-effective monitoring strategy for this very important part of the natural
resource base.
The City of Eagan is willing to be involved in the project during 1999-2001 in the
following ways:
• Solicit volunteers, identify a team leader(s) for our community's team, assist local
teams as appropriate, and arrange a format for volunteers to report back their data to
local policy makers.
• Identify wetlands to be monitored during the grant period
• Be willing to install BMP's around one identified wetland in our community if it is
one of the six selected for the project and if the City's cost burden for this installation
is reasonable.
• Work with local schools to host a Wetlands Field Day in our community.
• Contribute to an insert designed for local newspapers in participating communities
and provide information about the project in our city.
This project would be a cooperative effort between many communities in Dakota County
with significant wetland resources. The process outlined in the proposal will enable cities
to evaluate the benefit of low-cost, volunteer monitoring of wetlands as well identify the
effectiveness of BMP's to protect or improve wetland functions. Information learned
will be of great value to other communities in this region and nationally who are
interested in protecting this vital part of the environment.
Sincere
Rich Brasch
Water Resources Coordinator
MUNICIPAL CENTER
1830 PILOT KNCB THE LONE OAK TREE MAINTENANCE FACILITY
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city of eagan MEMO
TO: ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION
FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION
DATE: APRIL 16,1998
SUBJECT: DEER REST POND ADDITION-RON ROTH & JAMES SCHMITT
BACKGROUND
Ron Roth and James Schmitt are requesting a Preliminary Subdivision of their properties at
2260 and 2270 James Court to create four lots on 2.86 acres, in the SW 1/4 of Section 31
consisting of Lots 7 and 8, Block 1, Slaters Acres, part of the NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section
31 adjacent to Lot 7, Block 1, Slaters Acres, and part of existing Rusten Road right-of-way,
which is proposed to be vacated.
The property is steeply sloped and heavily wooded. There is a pond at the northeast corner of
the site. Both of the existing homes take access from James Court to the west. Rusten Road
abuts the site to the east. Slaters Acres was platted in 1959. Whispering Woods 2nd
Addition to the south was platted in 1987. The Rusten Road right-of-way that is proposed to
be vacated with this development was dedicated with the platting of Thomas G. Slater
Addition to the east in 1990.
The proposed Preliminary Subdivision would create four lots, two containing the applicants'
existing homes. All four lots meet minimum lot size requirements, and existing buildings
meet minimum setback requirements from the proposed new lot lines. No grading is
proposed for Lots 1 and 2 which contain the existing homes, and Lots 3 and 4 will be custom
graded at the time of building permit.
PARKS/TRAILS DEDICATION
This development shall be responsible for a cash parks dedication and a cash trails dedication.
TREE PRESERVATION
This 2.73-acre site is located at 2260 and 2270 James Court in the SW '/4 of Section 31. The
existing vegetation on site consists mostly of hardwood deciduous trees, mostly oak, in the
diameter range of 6" to 35".
The submitted tree inventory indicates that there are 178 significant trees on site. Tree
preservation issues for proposal will be dealt with at the time of building permit application
for the two new lots on this site, lots 3 and 4.
According to the City of Eagan Tree Preservation Ordinance, allowable removal for this type
of development (residential, single lot) is set at 20% of the existing significant vegetation, on
each lot. The submitted proposal indicates that approximately 45% removal will occur on lot
3, and 35% removal will occur on lot 4. Mitigation for tree removal in excess of allowable
limits will be applied at the time of building permit application.
Staff recommends that individual lot tree preservation plans be required at the time of
building permit application for lots 3 and 4.
WATER QUALITY/WETLANDS
This development is located in far southwest Eagan. Because of the small size of the
development, staff recommends that water quality mitigation requirements be satisfied
through a cash dedication in lieu of on-site ponding. The amount of the cash dedication
should be based on the area of the two un-developed lots.
There is a wetland that lies partially on the property. The wetland is used as a stormwater
pond and has a drainage and utility easement that surrounds it. While the wetland limits have
not been delineated, prohibiting grading from extending below the limits of the drainage and
utility easement will prevent filling of the wetland. Staff recommends that the development
be subject to a cash dedication for water quality. The amount of the dedication should be
based on the area of the undeveloped lots. Grading within the drainage and utility easement
associated with the stormwater pond that lies partially on the property is prohibited.
FOR COMMISSION REVIEW
1. This development shall be responsible for a cash parks dedication.
2. This development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication.
3. Individual lot tree preservation plans shall be required at the time of building permit
application for Lots 3 and 4.
4. This development shall be subject to a cash dedication for water quality.
5. Grading within the drainage and utility easement associated with the stormwater pond
that lies partially on the property is prohibited.
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~5 AND UTILITY PLAN
MEMO TO: Advisory Parks Commission
FROM: Gregg Hove, Supervisor of Forestry
THROUGH: Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation
DATE: April 8, 1998
SUBJECT: Tree Mitigation Fund Policy
INTRODUCTION
Several meetings have taken place to date with the goal of developing appropriate criteria and a
policy for the use of funds generated through the implementation of the Tree Preservation Ordinance.
This memo summarizes past actions by staff and by the Land Acquisition Sub-Committee
concerning developing a policy to utilize tree preservation mitigation funds. The recommended uses
of these funds includes providing for preservation, reforestation, and research. Proposed actions
are described below in the discussion section. Please refer to the attached memo, dated January 22,
1998, for background information.
BACKGROUND
Background information is provided in the attached memo. To date the cash mitigation option has
been applied to four developments, and currently now totals $60,854.00. One additional
development, which will receive final plat approval this May, will add $15,750.00 to this fund,
bringing the balance of funds to $76,604.00.
DISCUSSION
The policy being proposed for the use of accumulated funds includes three actions; an effort to
preserve significant trees which would otherwise be adversely affected by development, an effort
to perform community reforestation, and an effort to research potential areas where long-term
conservation easements could be applied. These actions are detailed in the same order below.
Innovative Tree Preservation Technique Grant Program
RECOMMENDED EXPENDITURE: $25,000.00 ($5,000.00 MAXIMUM PER GRANT)
OBJECTIVE: To encourage the implementation of unique tree preservation practices that will
promote the survival of significant and specimen trees, which would otherwise be removed because
the cost to preserve them would be prohibitive.
ELIGIBLE PROJECTS: Projects will be selected based upon project selection criteria and priorities
set by the City of Eagan Forestry Division. Eligible projects will be those that achieve improved tree
survival through the utilization of approved construction techniques as listed below.
/7.
ELIGIBLE EXPENSES
Local matching funds may be used for approved project expenses expended within the grant period
including:
a. pre-construction tree transplantation,
b. pre-construction tree fertilization, soil aeration, radial trenching,
c. utility installation through tunneling under tree roots versus trenching,
d. retaining wall installation to prevent or minimize grade change within the Critical Root Zone,
e. aeration/drainage system installation under proposed impervious areas.
PROJECT SELECTION PROCESS
The City of Eagan Forestry Division will be reviewing grant applications, and selecting projects to
be funded.
PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA
All projects to be funded must meet the following criteria:
- Purpose: The proposed activity must maintain or improve the health and survivability of the
tree(s) affected.
- Eligible Applicant: The applicant is a developer or owner of:
a. commercial or residential property to where the City Tree Preservation Ordinance is
being applied, or
b. existing commercial property which contains significant or specimen tree(s) or
c. existing residential property which contains specimen tree(s)
where construction activity will take place.
- Grant Amount: The grant amount may not exceed $5,000.00.
- Non-Local Match: The funds requested must be matched (cash) at least 1:1 by the applicant.
- Monitoring Agreement: The project applicant agrees to undertake post-treatment monitoring as
approved by the City of Eagan.
- Completion Date: The project must be completed as approved by the City of Eagan.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
December 31, 1998
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Gregg Hove, Supervisor of Forestry, 3501 Coachman
Point, Eagan, Minnesota, (612) 681-4300.
Community Reforestation Program
RECOMMENDED EXPENDITURE: $25,000.00 ($5,000.00 MAXIMUM PER PROJECT)
INTRODUCTION
This concept was originally proposed as a "Public Property Landscape Grant Program". However,
after further discussion and research by staff, a revised proposal is being recommended which should
allow for more efficient distribution and use of funds as well as more control over specific tree
species installed as a result of this program. The recommendation is to develop a "reforestation"
program whereby tree species would be made available to landowners in "areas of need". These
areas would be those that have recently endured some type of vegetation disturbance. Examples of
"areas of need" would be a windstorm damaged area such as what happened in Eagan in May 1996,
or areas affected by some type of tree disease or insect epidemic (oak wilt losses or gypsy moth tree
losses).
PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION
The need to implement this type of reforestation program would be dependent upon the occurrence
and severity of disturbance. There may be certain years where the reforestation program is not
needed, while there may be other years where this type of program will need to be implemented
more than once. City Forestry staff will monitor the need for and develop specific program criteria.
PROGRAM DESIGN
- Criteria to determine eligible sites will be developed based upon need
- The reforestation program may occur on either public or private lands
- Reforestation needs will be determined by forestry staff, with discussion occurring between staff
and landowner(s)
- Small diameter, containerized trees will be provided at no cost to affected landowners
- A written agreement will be created by forestry staff outlining follow-up tree maintenance needs
which will be provided by landowner(s)
Conservation Easement Research Program
RECOMMENDED EXPENDITURE: $5,000.00 (RESEARCH ASSISSTANT SALARY)
$20,000.00 (EASEMENT PURCHASES)
PURPOSE
The objective of this program is to preserve the greatest amount of "valuable lands" within the
City of Eagan while expending the least amount of funds. The vehicle for this program is the
purchase of conservation easements. ("Valuable lands" will be defined as those providing one or
more of the priorities listed below). A conservation easement will be described as a legal
agreement made between a landowner and a cooperating agency, such as the City of Eagan. It
places perpetual, mutually agreed upon restrictions on development of the land. The landowner
will retain ownership of the land. All future owners would be bound by the terms of the
conservation easement. This program will be designed to be both pro-active (we will seek out
potential easement properties) and re-active (we will be open to inquiries from the general
public).
APPLICABILITY
Priority will be given to land which:
1. is adjacent to city park land and contains,
a. specimen trees,
b. significant trees or woodlands,
c. unique plant or aquatic vegetation
d. native prairie or grassland.
2. provides visual or physical screening for users of city park property,
3. provides for a greenway or natural corridor between city owned wooded areas, or
4. provides for the benefit of the community as a whole through the preservation of trees and
greenspace.
IMPLEMENTATION
Research will need to be conducted before this conservation easement program is implemented. It
has been recommended that a research assistant be hired to:
1. search for potential lands fitting program criteria, via maps, aerial photos, and ground
surveys,
2. research costs associated with purchasing conservation easements,
3. develop methodology for implementing conservation easements, and
4. create a written Conservation Easement Management Plan
MEMORANDUM SUMMARY
Three uses of the Tree Preservation Ordinance Cash Mitigation Fund are presented. Through the
implementation of the three options we will:
1. ensure the survival of large trees which may have been otherwise destroyed as the result of
construction activities,
2. reforest areas of Eagan that suffer tree loss from some type of natural disaster, and
3. provide for the perpetual conservation of naturally significant land areas.
POLICY ISSUE
As stated in previous memos, the City has not yet adopted a formal plan for the use of tree mitigation
dollars. To date, the funds collected have exceeded original expectations. The Land Acquisiton
Sub-committee and staff are recommending the preceding plans for implementation of tree
mitigation funds.
FOR COMMISSION ACTION
To review and provide comment on the proposed recommendations for use of tree mitigation funds.
.o
MEMO TO: Advisory Parks Commission
FROM: Gregg Hove, Supervisor of Forestry
THROUGH: Ken Vraa, Director of Parks and Recreation
DATE: January 22, 1998
SUBJECT: Tree Mitigation Fund Policy - Land Acquisition Sub-Committee Meeting, 1-28-98
INTRODUCTION
The Land Acquisition Subcommittee will meet on Thursday, January 28, 1998. The goal of this
meeting will be to develop appropriate criteria and a policy concerning the use of Tree Preservation
Ordinance cash mitigation funds.
BACKGROUND
On March 19, 1996 the existing Tree Preservation Policy was officially converted into ordinance
status. As this action occurred, several revisions were incorporated into the new ordinance. Among
them was the inclusion of a cash mitigation option for development applications that exceeded
allowable tree removal limits. According to the Tree Preservation Ordinance, tree replacement
mitigation would occur as either:
a. "on-site" reforestation (tree planting at the development site),
b. "off-site" reforestation (tree planting on other applicant owned property within the City
of Eagan),
c. "public property" reforestation (contractual tree planting on public property at the
applicant's expense), or
d. cash mitigation.
The cash mitigation option is exercised only when all reforestation options are explored and
exhausted. That is, if preservation of all significant vegetation is not possible, the preference is to
have new trees installed as close to the site where they were removed as possible. And basically,
this is what generally has occurred in the past. Since the original Tree Preservation Guidelines were
adopted in July of 1993, only four development sites (3%), out of a total of 162 developments that
have been reviewed for tree preservation action, have had the cash mitigation option applied to them.
The amount of mitigation funds collected is $60,854.00, ($12,600.00, $12,000.00, $16,000.00, and
$20,184.00). To date, only one development has had the option of "public property" reforestation
applied to it (reforestation mitigation for Regal Cinema will be contractually installed at Lexington
Diffley Athletic Fields this spring).
~l.
As stated above, the preference is to reforest the development site through on-site mitigation,
however, this is becoming more and more difficult as development is now occurring on sites that are
either heavily wooded (leaving very little room for additional tree planting) or sites that are relatively
small for the amount of development occurring on them (again leaving very little room for additional
trees). All of the cash mitigation collected so far has been on sites developed in late 1996 or during
1997. Trends show that the option of cash mitigation will be more common in the future than in the
past. Also, it is city policy that any tree preservation mitigation to occur on site is in addition to any
landscape requirement. Typically we have found that the landscape requirement completely fills the
site with plant material, leaving no available space for tree mitigation, thus requiring the mitigation
to be in the form of cash.
DISCUSSION
Discussion at this meeting should concentrate on developing a written policy as to setting priorities
for the use of collected tree preservation cash mitigation funds. There are several topics that need
to be addressed:
1. How should cash mitigation funds be applied?
a. actual preservation - to purchase land (i.e. Lot 3, Prairie Oaks)
b. reforestation - to purchase trees that staff will install in parks
c. reforestation - contractual tree installation in parks
d. other land acquisition options, conservation easement purchases, contract-
for-deed purchases, etc., or
e. Landscape Grants - plant installation by the private sector on public land
f. what other ideas do you have?
2. When should current mitigation funds be used?
3. Should the APrC or city staff actively seek out possible land acquisition sites, or
identify them as development proposals are reviewed?
The sub-committee should also be aware that within the Forestry Division operating budget, there
is a $20,000.00 line item for the purchase of trees to be installed into the park system. Along with
this, an additional $109,500.00 has been expended since 1993 for forestry related activities (tree and
shrub planting), with funds derived from park improvement funds. Since 1993, just over 5,000 trees
and many thousands of shrubs and perennials have been planted into Eagan's park system with these
funds. These points are brought up here to let you know that a large amount of trees have been
recently installed into our system, utilizing a relatively small forestry staff. Basically, with the
available staff (one full-time and three to four seasonal persons), there is a finite number of trees that
can be installed within our limited planting season. Some examples of major landscaping tasks this
year are at Lexington Diffley, South Watyer Treatment Plant, and at the new Ice Arena. If the option
of reforestation via use of tree mitigation funds is explored, outside contractual services will
probably need to be explored. The negative impact with this contractual option is less trees will be
installed with the same amount of money being spent because about half of the cost is associated
with labor.
POLICY ISSUE
The City has not adapted a formal approach to the process and use of tree mitigation dollars.
Because it has always been thought that cash should be the last preferred alternative, there would not
be a large sum of money collected, and whatever was would easily be consumed through
reforestation. Obviously, that has not occurred and the opportunity to consider open space land
purchase should be considered. Any forested land purchased through these funds should be held
permanently in a "preserve" state, no land alteration or development would occur. Staff believes that
the commission should consider this issue and develop the appropriate criteria for consideration and
recommendation to the Council.
FOR SUB-COMMITTEE ACTION
To determine appropriate criteria and possible recommendation on land acquisition in place of or
in addition to tree planting as a use of tree mitigation funds.
H:\Ghove\1998file\Aprc\Mitigation fund memo
W MEMO
city of eagan
TO: ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION
FROM: KEN VRAA, DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION
DOROTHY PETERSON, SUPERINTENDENT OF RECREATION
DATE: MARCH 26,1998
SUBJECT: EAGAN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION REQUEST FOR OPPORTUNITY
SET-ASIDE FUNDS
BACKGROUND
The travel baseball request for Opportunity Fund funding appeared on the February 12, 1998 APrC agenda.
Criteria for review of requests of this nature had not been established. The Commission directed staff to
draft criteria which were reviewed by the Land Acquisition/Development Subcommittees in a workshop on
March 16, 1998. The Commission adopted the criteria, as revised by the subcommittee, at its March 16
meeting.
The Commission directed staff to apply the criteria to the EAA Travel Baseball request. It further directed
staff to review each of the three parts of the EAA request separately.
Lighting of Goat Hill, small baseball field: $53,102 - $59,418
Criteria that must be met:
1. Is the proposed project's time frame flexible to allow incorporation into the Department's annual
work plan within one to three years?
EAA Travel Baseball names the lighting proposed as its top priority. It further names payback to
occur in three consecutive years: 1998, 1999 and 2000. In the event that the project is not feasible
in the Department's 1998 work plan, negotiations would be required to adjust the payback years.
Projects in competition for 1998 include Walden Heights Park, 4 playgrounds, the Lexington
Diffley restroom buildings and sun shelter, Rahn tennis court repair and trail information kiosks.
2. Is the proposed cost participation contribution representative of the groups' ability to pay?
EAA Travel Baseball projects that $18,000 can be provided through proceeds from two annual
tournaments, corporate donations they are able to solicit and their reserve funds. While the
tournaments are dependent upon good weather, staff is of the opinion that travel baseball can
provide $6,000 per year for 3 years. Because the group is small, perhaps 120 families, travel
baseball quite likely would be unable to contribute more.
as.
As to criteria requiring a yes/no response:
3. Is the project identified in the 1997 CIP Evaluation Summary, but was not funded? Yes.
4. Is the project in conflict with any project on the CIP Recommended for Funding List? No; other
than competition in the 1998 work plan.
5. Does the proposed project enhance both public and private recreational programming options?
Yes; however, due to current field space constraints, only EAA Travel Baseball would benefit
immediately.
6. Are the benefits of the proposed improvement enduring over an extended period of time? Yes.
The lights have a life well beyond 25 years.
7. Is the proposed project inconsistent with the Park's Master Plan? No. The lights and structure will
not be a detriment to the park.
8. Is the project appropriate for the park suggested, or is another park more appropriate? Yes. The
adjacent large field is already lighted. This field is appropriate.
9. Does the proposed project fit the Department's facility design standard? Yes, the Department
reserves the right to select the specific design and set light level standards.
10. Is the proposed project benefiting a wide segment of the community; what percentage of the
participants are Eagan residents? Yes. The annual segment of the community may be small, 125
players, however, over 20-25 years the benefit extends to several thousand participants. And yes, EAA
participants are Eagan residents.
11. Is the cost payback received in no longer than three annual installments? Yes.
12. Are there any unique or special considerations or features that should be considered? Yes. The
Eagan Athletic Association and the Department of Parks and Recreation have a long history of
cooperative projects. The programs offered by EAA are important assets to the youth of this
community.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of lighting the small field at Goat Hill Park with cost participation from EAA
Travel Baseball of $18,000 to be paid in three annual installments of $6,000.
Staff further recommends that the project be undertaken immediately. Preparation of construction plans and
specifications may mean that the work will not occur until the fall of 1998 or spring of 1999.
Dugout Improvements: $2,500
This project, as a standalone, qualifies under the small projects, less than $10,000, category. In that safety is
stated as the primary consideration for this project, completion of the work should be considered.
Staff recommends review with the City's Risk Management. Based on that recommendation the work
would proceed in-house. The extension of the dugouts would be a temporary solution until such time that
permanent dugouts are built.
As is typical with improvements in this cost range, past practice has been a minimum of 50%
reimbursement from the benefiting EAA sport.
o~(o,
Additional Batting Cage: Estimate $4,500 (less than $10,000)
The proposal for a second batting cage at Goat Hill Park is unusual in several respects:
• The EAA proposal does not suggest a location, however, in informal conversation, travel baseball
perceives a suitable location to be outside the left field out of play fence. Available space is
approximately 24' wide, too narrow for a batting cage.
• A second potential available space, further south and east, encroaches on the park's pleasure rink area.
• The EAA proposal requests a gated fence, presumed locked, around the batting cage to deter vandalism.
A fence could also preclude public use. This design does not fit the Department's standards.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Goat Hill Park does not provide suitable space for an additional batting cage. In addition to the existing
Goat Hill batting cage, the facility can be found at Rahn Athletic, Eagan High School and Dakota Hills
Middle School. Staff recommends that construction of an additional batting cage be postponed and
incorporated into the design of a future youth athletic complex.
It should be noted that the Eagan Athletic Association Board of Directors has yet to review Travel
Baseball's proposal to expend current and future dollars on capital expenditures such as the Goat Hill
lighting. It is not known what position to Board as a whole will take.
G:ruth/dp326.98
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MEMO
city of eagan
TO: DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION VRAA
FROM: CITY ADMINISTRATOR HEDGES
DATE: APRIL 2,1998
SUBJECT: TEEN CENTER ANALYSIS
At the March 24 Special City Council meeting, the City Council heard presentations for a teen center
by the Southwest Area YMCA and Michael Vincent. The Southwest Area YMCA is proposing a
building addition to their current facility on TH 149 and Opperman Drive that would be used as a teen
room and operated by the YMCA. The cost to the City is a $75,000 contribution toward the capital
project. Mr. Vincent's proposal is to enclose space on the mezzanine level of the civic arena to be used
as a teen room and for other purposes, such as hockey registration and general meeting room space.
The capital cost would be raised through private donations, while the operating cost would be
absorbed by the City. Mr. Vincent indicated that the operating cost would be primarily for heat and
electricity.
The City Council has asked that these two proposals be reviewed by the Advisory Parks & Recreation
Commission at their April meeting and a recommendation presented to the City Council. Although the
City Council did not specifically direct any other ideas, it would be in the interest of the Advisory Parks
& Recreation Commission and City Council to discuss any other alternatives for a teen center and
share any findings with the City Council.
I have attached a copy of the proposal that was presented by the Southwest Area YMCA to the City
Council. Please share this document with the APrC. To date, Mr. Vincent has not provided a written
proposal for the civic arena location. Please make reference to the March 24 Special City Council
minutes as you discuss this matter with the Commission.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at any time.
City Administrator
Attachment
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Southweskt Area YMCA Q
X30 Opperman Drive
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Partnership Proposal
To The
City of Eagan
February 25, 1998
Proposal request:
Request for funding for a Teen Center to be located at the Southwest Area YMCA. This
center will be the base for all YMCA teen programs as well as a location for local teen
groups to conduct meetings and activities. This request is that the City of Eagan become a
partner with the YMCA in this project. As a partner in this community project, the City
of Eagan would contribute $75,000 to the cost of the project. All staffing, equipment,
training and program expenses would be the responsibility of the YMCA. The YMCA
will also commit to continuing its leadership with healthy community initiatives that can
be based at the YMCA.
Funding and costs:
The teen center will be a part of a $300,000 renovation and expansion project that will
add approximately 2,500 sq. feet to the YMCA and renovate an additional 2,300 sq. feet.
The project cost for the teen center portion is approximately $90,000. This new teen
center will complement other facilities such as the computer lab, the gyms, pools, fitness
center and new climbing wall. These program areas will also be available for use by teens
during specific times. The teen center will be open during afternoon and evening hours
on weekdays and all day on weekends.
Operations:
The teen center will be staffed by the YMCA on weekday afternoons and evenings, and
on Saturdays and Sundays. Staff costs are projected at $8,000 to $10,000 per year. The
YMCA will offer a special teen center membership that will let a teen use the teen center
and the computer lab. The fee for this membership would be only $25 per year. This fee
will help offset the cost of staffing the center. The entire YMCA would be accessible
during special teen nights and other program times. Teens would also have the option of
the normal monthly membership for use of the entire YMCA at $20 per month.
Background and need:
Currently there over 700 teens ages 12 to 18 that are members of our YMCA and another
200 to 300 that have been involved in programs or activities. This makes up 11% of our
membership base and 13% of our total users. Eagan residents alone make up 80% of total
memberships at the YMCA and of all users. We believe this percentage will directly
correlate to the amount of teen usage. Adding new programs and new facilities for teens
such as a climbing wall and the teen center, in addition to our computer lab, we feel that
we will be able to offer quality activities for teens of our area.
j 31
Currently there are almost 4000 teens at Eagan High School, Dakota Hills, and
B1ackHawk Middle schools. Many of them are looking for a place to go to relax, have
fun, and not get hassled. We feel the YMCA is a place teens can do that. Currently, the
first and third Saturday nights are teen nights at the YMCA. Up to 100 teens have
attended these events but with more facilities and additional promotion, the YMCA
would become the place for teens to go Saturday night. The teen center capacity would be
between 30 to 35 kids at one time, along with other program areas, the YMCA will have
sufficient room for many teens. There is no plan to limit the number of teen memberships
to the YMCA.
Schedules and Activities:
A teen council will work with our program staff to design the teen center, schedule
programs and plan activities for the YMCA These programs will not be limited to
YMCA members but all teens in the community. Programs and activities will be offered
year round including summer, school release days and on weekends. Coordinating these
programs with existing local church programs, school and other community agency
programs will be instrumental in maximizing programs and activities for teens without
duplication.
Recognition:
As a lead partner with the YMCA, the City of Eagan will be recognized on the YMCA
Founders wall as well as recognized on the Teen Center itself. At the completion of the
construction, the YMCA will also conduct a dedication program to thank all contributors
for their participation in the project.
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7300 WEST 147TH STREET SUITE 504 ST. PAUL. MN 55124-7580 (612) 431-4433
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Engineers & Architects
TO: Russ Matthys
Ken Vraa
Tom Colbert
Rick Brasch
FROM: Mark Hanson
Imul Martinez
Sherri Buss
SUBJECT: Thomas Lake Outlet Structure
Project No. 741
Contract No. 98-10
File No. 49591
The City of Eagan has been reviewing since the fall of 1997 alternatives to stabilize water levels
in Thomas Lake for smaller more frequent storm events. The review studied different
alternatives, however the alternative with the greatest impact is to construct an outlet structure
including a weir approximately 12' in length. The weir will provide greater inlet capacity into
the existing 27' diameter outlet pipe for smaller storm events which will accomplish the
following:
• Reduce the water levels in Thomas Lake for smaller storm events.
• Reduce the time for lake levels in Thomas Lake to recede to their normal water level.
The proposed outlet structure is to be constructed over the existing outlet pipe located on the
west side of Thomas Lake immediately east of Thomas Lake Road. The outlet structures can
assume many designs dependent upon the goals of the City. We have attached photos of
different types of outlet structures. It's recommended the different types of outlet structure be
reviewed. The design approach could be summarized as follows:
• Provide outlet structure into lake which provides a view of the lake and a view of water
flowing into the structure over a Wier.
• Provide outlet structure into lake which provides a view of the lake, however water flow is
concealed below outlet structures.
• Conceal outlet structure along shoreline such that attention is not drawn to it.
Please review the above guidelines and determine which approach should be taken in designing
the outlet structure. The cost could vary from $50,000-$200,000 dependent upon which
approach is taken. The City is anxious to proceed with plans/specifications such that the
structure could be constructed in June/July of this year. The Department of Natural Resources
(DNR) must be involved in the review process which must be accounted for in the project
schedule.
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TO: ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION
FROM: RICH BRASCH, WATER RESOURCES COORDINATOR
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
RE: PROPOSED TREATMENT OF HEINE POND WITH IRON
DATE: APRIL 14, 1998
Background
In 1997, the Mn Department of Natural Resources formed a technical advisory committee of researchers
and water resources management professionals from across the state to assess the use of iron to provide
long-term water quality benefits in lakes. One of the claims examined was the addition of elemental iron to
lake systems to control the growth of the exotic curly leaf pondweed. While there was some evidence to
suggest effective control, lack of good pre- and post-treatment data under field conditions made a credible
determination of efficacy impossible.
Curly leaf pondweed has infested numerous lakes since it was first noted in the state in 1906. Once in a
lake system, the weed often becomes dominant from ice-off through mid- to late June, frequently growing
to the surface. It then dies off, loading the water column with phosphorus as it decomposes which often
causes severe bluegreen algal blooms that can severely compromise water quality for much of the
remaining portion of the recreational season. City water resources division staff have noted the spread of
the weed throughout the City's lakes, and consider it a growing problem with regard to both water quality
and lake use impairment. Several control options have been tried by the City and elsewhere, with little
success.
Description of Proposed Project
In cooperation with the MN Department of Natural Resources, City staff are proposing to treat Heine Pond
with iron and monitor the effectiveness of the treatment in reducing curly leaf pondweed growth and
maintaining good water quality over the long-term. Heine Pond is an excellent treatment candidate because
of the work that the City and residents have completed over the last five years to curtail external nutrient
loading and the wealth of baseline water quality and aquatic weed data that is available. Staff have
scheduled a meeting with riparian residents in late April to discuss the proposal with them. If there is no
opposition to the treatment, staff would submit a grant funding proposal to the state on May I to partially
fund the treatment and attendant monitoring. City cash costs to contribute toward the project would not
exceed $4,000/year, about what has historically been spent on sampling and weed harvesting each year for
management of the lake. A "Question and Answer" sheet about the proposed project sent out to all
residents with the public information meeting invitation is attached.
Water resource staff feel that the risks associated with the experimental treatment are very low and that the
potential benefits both to Eagan and the broader lake management community could be substantial.
Commission Action Requested
Staff are requesting that the Commission review the project proposal and provide guidance on whether to
pursue the project. If appropriate, a formal motion that supports proceeding with the project-perhaps
pending the outcome of the meeting with the lakeshore owners- would be desirable.
Rich Brasch
Water Resources Coordinator
"Questions and Answers"
on Treatment of Lakes With Iron
Why is an iron treatment being proposed for Heine Pond?
Iron can be effective at decreasing the availability of plant nutrients,
especially phosphorus, so that they are no longer available to feed nuisance
aquatic plant growth. In addition, there is some evidence that certain forms
of iron may be effective at significantly curtailing the growth of the exotic
weed curly leaf pondweed which has infested Heine Pond since the early
1990's. This weed dies off in mid-summer, but releases phosphorus when it
decomposes which often causes algal blooms in late summer. Based on
monitoring conducted by the City over the last seven years, the presence of
curly leaf pondweed appears to be the last remaining threat to the
maintenance of excellent water quality in Heine Pond over the long term.
What would I notice about the lake after an iron treatment?
This proposed project would involve a one-time application of gray, sand-
sized iron particles over most of the pond. The iron would immediately sink
to the bottom of the pond in a very thin layer less than 1/16" thick. Over the
succeeding several days after treatment, the iron particles will become
incorporated into the sediment on the bottom of the lake. At this point, there
will be no visible evidence that the lake has been treated.
How would the lake be managed after the iron treatment?
Part of the proposed project involves monitoring the effectiveness of the
treatment for a period of three years after the application of the iron. In
order not to mask the effects of the treatment, mechanical harvesting to
remove curly leaf pondweed would not be conducted during the next four
summers, including this summer. If the treatment is effective at controlling
the growth of curly leaf pondweed, harvesting should be un-necessary
during the summers of 1999, 2000, and 2001. If the treatment is not
effective at controlling curly leaf pondweed growth, it is likely that the
project would be terminated after 1-2 years and normal harvesting
operations would resume.
4z.
What risks are there in using iron to treat Heine Pond?
The environmental risks of applying the iron appear low, even lower than
the risks associated with the alum treatment conducted last year as part of
the project jointly carried out by shoreline residents and the City of Eagan.
The application rates which would be used for Heine Pond fall far short of
the amounts that would cause a physical impact to fish or other aquatic
organisms and the toxicity of the form of the iron that would be used is
virtually nil. Finally, iron is among the most common elements in the earth
and most lake sediments already contain an abundance of iron. The amount
of iron which would be added to Heine Pond is a very small percentage of
the total amount already there.
How will the environmental risks be minimized?
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' Fish and Wildlife
Division will review, and must approve, the proposed iron treatment. As
part of the review and approval process, fisheries and aquatic ecology
experts from the MnDNR and the MN Pollution Control Agency will
evaluate the proposal. Unlike many herbicide treatments, no post-treatment
water contact or recreational water use restrictions would be necessary for
the proposed treatment.
Who would pay for the project and when would the project begin?
The City would apply for a grant through the state to help finance the cost of
the treatment and monitoring. Only if the grant is awarded would the project
proceed. Project expenses not covered by the grant would be covered by the
City and other parties. Residents will not be asked to contribute to the
project. If the grant is approved, the application of the iron would probably
take place in June or July of this year.
If you have any questions or would like more information, contact the
City of Eagan's Water Resources Coordinator at 681-4300.
4-5
NATURAL RESOURCES SUBCOMMITTEE
APRIL 15, 1998 MEETING
-SUMMARY-
Attendees:
Brian Jensen - Student, Burnsville Senior High School
Mary Lenhardt - Faculty, Burnsville Senior High School
Daryle Peterson - Advisory Parks Commission
Rich Brasch - Water Resources Coordinator
Meeting Summary
I. Ice Safety Policy
• Brian Jensen, a senior at Burnsville High School, is conducting the
background research and drafting a policy of ice safety as a project for an
honors class called Political Action. The NRSc meeting was held to review
the background information that Brian had gathered and to provide comments
on his initial draft of a policy.
• Comments on the draft were as follows:
-Under Section 1-Purpose and Need for Policy, it was suggested that language
indicating the City has a responsibility to warn the general public of ice safety
be struck because the City does not have this responsibility
-Under Section II- Policy Subsection A, it was suggested that the term public
access points needs to be defined. In addition, all but the first two lines of this
paragraph can be stuck from the policy statement. All but the last sentence
could be incorporate into a background paper explaining the policy, but the
last sentence should be deleted completely.
-Under Section II - Policy, Subsection B, it was suggested to delete the last
sentence of this paragraph and to include general guidelines on the verbage for
the signs.
-Under Section II - Policy, Subsection C, it was suggested that this paragraph
should be written to apply only to aeration systems operated by the City and to
make sure that storm sewer inlets/outlets are excluded.
-Section III needs to be revised accordingly to be consistent with changes
made to previous sections.
• It was also suggested that a second policy alternative be drafted for
consideration by the Subcommittee, Commission, and Council which would
incorporate the gist of the following statement from the Duluth City Attorney
and indicate that the City will follow warning procedures which, at a
minimum, comply with state law where the City operates winter aeration
systems on any waters of the state. The attorneys statement is as follows:
"Ultimately, there are many dangers in our world and each individual must
accept responsibility for understanding the natural environment.
Government neither has the ability or resources to make the world safe or
warn of every danger."
• All agreed that Brian would have the re-drafted policies completed by April
23 and that another subcommittee meeting would be held prior to the May
APC meeting to review the revised/new policies. It was also agreed that the
policies would stick to abbreviated statements regarding what the policy is,
and that a separate background paper should be prepared for each policy
option that presents the "why" behind the policy.
• All present commended Brian for doing such a thorough and excellent job on
researching and presenting the information.
Prepared April 16, 1998 by R. Brasch
9(
City of Eagan Ice Safety Policy
Draft, March 31 1998
Submitted by Brian R. Jensen
ICE SAFETY WARNING SIGNS
1. PURPOSE AND NEED FOR POLICY
The City of Eagan recognizes the need to address the issues pertaining to its
responsibility in warning the general public of the safety of ice on public bodies of water.
The purpose of this policy is to outline the responsibilities of the City to notify the public
of dangerous ice conditions (thin ice), and to outline the City's legal liabilities in this
matter.
II. POLICY
A. Bodies of water without public access points.
The City of Eagan will maintain a no warning policy regarding the safety of
ice on bodies of water that don't contain public access points. This policy
states that around bodies of water (lakes, ponds, streams, etc.) the City of
Eagan will not post any type of notification as to the condition of the ice.
Choosing a no warning policy is the result of balancing issues of risk versus,
the cost of monitoring ice conditions. These costs include employee time and
the cost of mounting and removing signs. In addition, if the public were to
rely on posted signs that listed the condition of the ice, these signs must be
prompt, accurate and updated often. The conclusion is that it is safer not to
provide information regarding the condition of the ice to the public, and allow
the public to use their own good judgement to determine if the ice is safe
instead of placing their faith in possibly inaccurate information provided by
the City. A City policy that would warn the public of ice conditions would
inevitably be more dangerous not only to the public, but also to the City of 1
Eagan itself. Such a policy would expose the city to more liability than a - policy of doing nothing, since the City could be found liable and sued for the
failure to enforce a policy, but it would be less likely to be sued for having not'.
implemented a policy to warn the public.*
Bodies of water with public access points.
The City of Eagan will ing-policy-fof those bodies of-water
that d~'contain public access points. By placing general signs warning of the
potential danger at public access points, the signs weutd alert the public to the
potential of injury or death at such an area, and allow the public to then decide
whether or not to place themselves in such risk. ' These warning signs would
limit the City's liability, protecting them from lawsuits unless the prosecuting
party could prove the City to be negligent in the enforcement of this policy.
* See following legal documentation.
C. Unnatural conditions caused by the City. The City of Eagan also will provide general warning signs at sites where he , s j~~ •
City plays a part in the creation or maintenance of an artificial condition. An c
example would be at any aeration or pumping station where the actions-of the
City would impede ice from forming to the degree it would naturally. In such
situations, it is necessary for the City to produce a unique type of notification
that would alert the public to the fact that although the City does not monitor
the conditions of the ice, this particular site may pose a greater danger since
the City has knowledge that its actions do maintain an artificial condition.
H. PROCEDURE
The City of Eagan, in accordance with the above policy, will not post any type of
information regarding the conditions or safety of ice in the vicinity of public bodies of
water unless there is some form of public access to the water (ex. Docks, beaches, etc.),
or some form of City property that would cause an unnatural condition. The Department
of Parks and Recreation would be required to post and maintain these permanent signs.
III. RESPONSIBILITY
The implementation and responsibility of this policy will reside with the Department of
Parks and Recreation.
See Restatement of Torts 2d.
Additional Background Information and Support
Cities approached with questions on whether or not they have a current warning policy on
the safety of ice conditions:
Questioned through email: Albert Lea, Alexandria, Apple Valley, Austin, Bloomington,
Brainerd, Coon Rapids, Cottage Grove, Duluth, Eden Prairie, Edina, Elk River,
Farmington, Fergus Falls, Grand Forks, Hastings, Inver Grove Heights, Mankato, Milaca,
Minneapolis, Minnetonka, Moundsview, Plymouth, Rochester, Rosemount, St. Cloud,
and St. Louis Park.
Questioned over the phone: Lakeville, Prior Lake, Mendota Heights, Burnsville, Savage,
Apple Valley, Inver Grove Heights, and Rosemount.
Of these cities, significant results were produced from Minnetonka, Prior Lake,
Lakeville, and Duluth.
The City of Minnetonka currently does not have a policy in regards to ice safety
specifically, however they do have a policy in place not to put up fences around the
ponds found throughout their city. Desyl Peterson, the City Attorney for Minnetonka,
reinforces the policy but stating that the policy " . . . will give [the City of Minnetonka]
discretionary immunity if people allege that [the City] should have taken some actions to
prevent people from going on the ice." This statement would be in accordance with
Minnesota Statute 466.03, subdivision 6.
The City of Prior Lake, after suffering multiple incidents of citizens falling
through thin ice on Prior Lake this winter and being killed, they have begun the process
of forming a new formal notification process policy that will alert the public to ice
conditions in a more timely fashion. Little information is yet available as to how this
policy will be formed, but it will be enforced by the city's Department of Parks, directed
by Paul Hokeness and also governed by the Scott County Sheriffs Department.
The City of Lakeville also experienced problematic ice conditions this winter on
Lake Marrion, at one point the Director of Parks and Recreation, Steve Michaud, went so
far as to barricade all public access points to the lake to prevent ice fishermen and other
citizens from venturing out onto the unsafe ice. Erected by the Chief of Police of
Lakeville, the barricades were in turn moved aside and ignored by angry fisherman who
continued onto the lake. After the failed attempt to limit the citizens' activity on Lake
Manion, Michaud recalled the barricade after I day and dismissed the plan. No further
steps have been taken towards a new policy.
The City Attorney of Duluth, Alison Lutterman, replied with a lengthy email that
stated the city's policy, reasons, and legal support for the policy. With Lake Superior and
St. Louis Bay navigable water systems, the city holds no regulatory authority over them
and is instead turned over to the state and federal governments. However, the City of
Duluth has given consideration to the ice safety warning issue, and developed their own
policy of not warning the public, opting instead to allow the public to use common sense
instead of relying on possibly inaccurate information provided by the city. The City of
Duluth has concluded that it is the most feasible way for them to protect their legal
liability and conserve monetary resources, instead of possibly posting inaccurate
Additional Background Info.
information that would then prove more harmful than helpful. Lutterman said,
"Ultimately, there are many dangers in our world and each individual must accept
responsibility for understanding the natural environment. Government neither has the
ability or resources to make the world safe or warn of every danger."
Of many remaining cities, some have not returned emails and voicemails, while
many others simply had never been confronted with such an issue before and had no
relevant policies. The majority of cities, however, would like to receive a copy of
Eagan's decision in the end.
Lisa Tarara, of the League of Minnesota Cities, also agrees that if a city has no
public access points to a body of water, than it shouldn't place warning signs. However,
if public access points are present, the city is responsible for posting general warning
signs alerting the public to the potential danger at such a site. Lisa was also to say that a
city should opt for warning signs instead of acknowledgement signs (of the danger), since
younger children tend to venture into dangerous areas when an acknowledgement sign is
present, whereas younger children typically heed warning signs.
Additional Background Info.
Telephone
Minneapolis, 612/851-7161
«olftirramlKuutson Architects Ltd. 2850 Minnesota Fax 612:851-7162
b Metro 55425
Drive,
Suite 215
March 17, 1998
Ken Vraa, Dir. of Parks and Recreation
Eagan City Hall
Pilot Knob Rd.
Eagan, MN. 55122
Ken:
I must regretfully inform you that due to personal commitments, I will be unable to fulfill
my term on the Eagan Parks Commission. Over the past months, I have enjoyed working
with you and your staff and getting to know more about the community in which I live. If in
the future I can be of service, please feel free to contact me.
Regards;
Steve Knutson A.I.A.
J
MV of eagan
THOMAS EGAN
Mayor
April 8, 1998 PATRICIA AWADA
BEA BLOMQUIST
SANDRA A. MASIN
THEODORE WACHTER
MS. SHARON HOLBECK Council Members
4852 WELLINGTON COURT THOMAS HEDGES
EAGAN, MN 55122 City Administrator
E. J. VAN OVERBEKE
Dear Sharon: City Clerk
As we discussed during our phone conversation yesterday, enclosed are graphical summaries for
key water quality data taken for the pond behind your house over the last three years. Water
clarity has shown a steady upward trend and total phosphorus a steady downward trend during
this time period. The numbers for 1997 are about as good as we can expect to do for this system
and I am personally very pleased to see such dramatic progress. I think your observations about
the return of frogs to the pond validates the success of the joint effort between you and your
neighbors and the City.
There are several items to keep in mind for the future. First, it will be important to continue to
monitor water clarity in the pond on a consistent basis. As I mentioned during our conversation,
taking water clarity measurements in the center of the pond on a consistent, bi-weekly basis
between late April and mid-September will be a key in helping track the condition of the pond in
the future. Because of natural variation in precipitation and other factors, we will expect to see
some variation about the long-term mean for both water clarity and total phosphorus, but
compiling a long-term record to track general trends is very important. Second, I hope our efforts
last year will prove effective in decreasing the dominance of the water lilies in the central portion
of the pond. If further control is necessary, I would recommend that the shoreland owners
consider jointly hiring a chemical herbicide applicator to carry out spot treatments in the central
portion of the pond to maintain some open water. The City would be amenable to providing
technical advice and guidance in this effort if it is something you're interested in pursuing.
After you've looked over the enclosed information, please call me at 681-4300. I would be happy
to meet with your group again if you believe it would be desirable. I will look forward to hearing
from you. Thanks for your effort and enthusiasm on this project, Sharon.
Sincerely,
Rich Brasch
Water Resources Coordinator
cc. Ken Vraa
John Rudolph
Jim Storland
5a.
MUNICIPAL CENTER MAINTENANCE FACILITY
3830 PILOT 4NO8 :7CAD THE LONE OAK TREE 3501 COACHMAN POINT
EAGAN, MINNESOTA 55122-189,' THE SYMBOL OF STRENGTH AND GROWTH IN OUR COMMUNIT( EAGAN. MINNESOTA 55122
PHONE. (612),,j8: 1cCC PHONE (612) 681.4300
FAX (612) . 146; 2 Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer rAX (612) 681-4360
r0C (612) .154 .3535 TCC (612) 454-8535
LP-7.2
Water Clarity
6 Secchi Depth (feet) Number of Samples 6
5 _ 5
4 _ X 4 I High/Low
3 _ _ _ 3 -Mean
2 X # Samples
0 ..1
95 96 97
Year
Values from Mid-May thru Mid-September/LP7.2SD.PRS
LP-7.2
Total Phosphorus
0.5 Total Phosphorus (ppm) Number of Samples 6
0.4
0.3 _ _ I High/Low
_ _ 3 -Mean
. . . N~ 0.2 x # Samples
1
0 p
95 96 97
Year
Value from Mid-May thru Mid-Septemuer/LP7.2TP.PRS
April 7, 1998
Mr. Rich Brasch
Water Resource Coordinator
3501 Coachman Point
Eagan, MN 55122
Dear Rich,
On behalf of the Eagan Football Boosters and myself, I would like to thank you for your
participation in our fertilizer sales "Kick Off'. Your information and handouts were very
appreciated along with your support of our program.
It truly is encouraging to see support from the City of Eagan to maintain our valuable
resources. You are an excellent example of doing the extras which make a difference in
our quality of life. Thank you for your support and what you do for Eagan.
I look forward to working with you again next year to promote awareness and support
our football program. Enclosed is our schedule - Hope to see you at the games!
Sincerely
Frank Caldwell
Eagan Football Boosters
,5"5.
Eagan High School Booster Club Fertilizer Sales
(Prepared March 25, 1998)
Year
Formulation Product Name
1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997
25-10-15 Premium Lawn 244 609 450 574 186 249
10-10-10 Lawn and Garden 19 65 34 39 90 107
25-3-3 Weed and Feed 217 614 570 792 642 681
27-3-3 Slow Release 0 0 0 0 140 142
18-4-8 Crabgrass Control 120 185 200 183 323 274
26-0-26 Save Our Lakes 48 225 327 351 267 220
TOTAL BAGS LAWN FERTILZER SOLD 648 1698 1581 1939 1648 1673
Percent 3% Phosphorus 33.5% 36.2% 36.1% 40.8% 47.5% 49.2%
Percent 0% Phosphorus 7.4% 13.3% 20.7% 18.1% 16.2% 13.2%
Percent Low/No Phosphorus 40.9% 49.4% 56.7% 58.9% 63.7% 62.3%
Total Phosphorus as P205 Sold (lbs.) 752.2 1864.4 1470 1847.6 1279.6 1425
Average Pounds P Per Bag 1.16 1.10 0.93 0.95 0.78 0.85
Notes: Bag weight is 20 lbs.
Approximate coverage is 5,000 sq. ft. per bag
ADVISORY PARKS COMMISSION
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 16,1998
A regular meeting of the Advisory Parks Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on March
16,1998 with the following Commission Members present: Jerry Farlee, Barbara Johnson, Bonnie Karson,
George Kubik, Lee Markell, Daryle Petersen, John Rudolph and Michael Vincent. Commission Members
Terry Davis, N. Mark Filipi and Steven Knutson were not present. Staff present included Ken Vraa,
Director of Parks and Recreation; Dorothy Peterson, Superintendent of Recreation; Paul Olson, Parks
Superintendent; CJ Lilly, Landscape Architect/Parks Planner; Gregg Hove, Forestry Supervisor; Rich
Brasch, Water Resources Coordinator; Julie Farnham, Planner and Cherryl Mesko, Secretary.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A motion was made, seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the agenda as
presented.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 12,1998
A motion was made, seconded with all members voting in favor to accept the minutes of the
regular meeting of February 12, 1998 as presented.
VISITORS TO BE HEARD
There were no visitors that wished to be heard under this agenda item.
DEPARTMENT HAPPENINGS
Items highlighted by Director Vraa included a meeting at Oak Woods of Eagan concerning
congregate dining for senior citizens, Yankee Doodle Arts and Crafts Festival scheduled for June 20 and
21 at Blue Cross Blue Shield, request for field space for cricket, planning has begun for the Summer/Fall
Discover Us! brochure, Loren Danson was hired to fill the Forestry/Park Maintenance position,
applications are being accepted for seasonal park and forestry maintenance and several off-road
bituminous trails will be seal coated as part of a multi-city project being coordinated by the City of
Burnsville.
CONSENT AGENDA
There were no items under the Consent Agenda for the Commission to review.
DEVELOPMENT AGENDA
ROYAL OAKS - ROYAL OAKS REALTY
Planner Farnham provided background for this project noting it is a request for a Preliminary
Subdivision and Rezoning to allow development of 38 single family homes on 21.4 acres on the east side
of Wescott Hills Drive, south of Yankee Doodle Road. Currently 3.4 acres are zoned R-1 Single Family
with the remaining 18 acres zoned Agricultural.
Advisory Parks Commission
Minutes of March 16,1998 Meeting
Page 2
Water Resources Coordinator Brasch reviewed water quality issues noting that most of the
impervious areas will drain to a constructed detention basin along the northern border with most of the
balance draining to a proposed sedimentation pond in the north central portion of the site and then on to
Pond EP-2.2. Approximately 2.2 acres of the western portion of the site will discharge off-site to the west
untreated, however opportunities to treat this runoff will be evaluated when Wescott Hills Drive is
upgraded.
Relative to wetlands, Brasch noted that the developer is proposing to fill a total of approximately
1700 square feet in two wetland basins. This is less than the 2,000 square foot de minimus exception
allowed by the WCA and will require no mitigation. Brasch then reviewed staff recommendations for
both water quality and wetlands.
Forestry Supervisor Hove explained that the site has a large number of significant trees and
many lots that have steep or rolling terrain or natural ponds on them. Initial development will see the
removal of 199 trees (21.7% of the total) The allowable removal for this type of development is set at 25%
of the existing significant vegetation during initial development phase and 20% for each individual lot.
Staff has recommended that custom grading on 28 of the 38 lots be recommended. Hove noted it is
imperative that tree protection measures be well communicated and followed through from initial
construction to site completion. He added that tree protection requirements would be strictly enforced
on this site. Hove then reviewed staff recommendations for approval of the Tree Preservation Plan.
Mike Black, representing Royal Oaks Realty expressed his concern for the recommendation that
individual lot tree preservation plans would be required for Lots 1 through 9 and Lots 19 through 38. He
felt that Lots 3, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29 and 32 should not be included since they will be totally prepared
during the initial development phase. Member Petersen asked if it would be appropriate for staff to
review the revised list to ensure appropriate tree mitigation. Mr. Black responded that the original list
shows the exact trees to be removed on the excluded lots.
Following a brief discussion, Michael Vincent moved, Barbara Johnson seconded with all
members voting in favor to make the following recommendations to the City Council regarding Royal
Oaks:
1. This development shall be responsible for a cash parks dedication.
2. This development shall be responsible for a cash trails dedication.
3. The Tree Preservation Plan as proposed shall be approved with the following conditions:
4 Tree Protective measures (i.e. 4 foot polyethylene laminate safety netting) shall be
installed at the Drip Line or at the perimeter of the Critical Root Zone, whichever is
greater, of significant trees/woodlands to be preserved. No grade change, construction
activity, or storage of materials shall occur within this fenced area.
4 The applicant shall contact the City Forestry Division at least five days prior to the
issuance of the grading permit to ensure compliance with the approved Tree
Preservation Plan.
4 Individual lot tree preservation plans shall be required at the time of building permit
application for Lots 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 19, 20, 21, 22, 28, 30, 31, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37 and 38.
Lots excluded include 3, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29 and 32.
4. This development shall meet water quality treatment requirements with on-site ponding to
the maximum degree practicable. A supplemental cash dedication should be required for
that portion of the site draining to the west that will not be routed to an on-site detention
basin.
5. All detention basins shall be constructed according to the City's Standards for Detention
Basin Design, and have skimmers of acceptable design to the City installed on the pond
outlets.
Advisory Parks Commission
Minutes of March 16,1998 Meeting
Page 3
6. Total wetland fill on the site shall be limited to 2,000 square feet or less in the wetlands
designated as Ponds 4 and 5 on the grading plan. As per the de minimus provisions of the
Wetland Conservation Act, no mitigation will be required provided wetland fill impacts do
not exceed this figure.
7. A buffer within which no grading or vegetation clearing is allowed shall be established 30
feet back from the delineated edge of wetlands associated with Pond 3 and Pond EP-2.2 as
designated on the grading plan. The only exception to this provision should be the
disturbance related to installation of the discharge pipe from Pond 2 to Pond EP-2.2.
OLD BUSINESS
SKYLINE DISPLAY UPDATE
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that Skyline Displays Inc. has proposed plans to
develop a park on the northeast corner of Lexington Avenue and Yankee Doodle Road as part of the
development of their corporate offices. Skyline has asked that the parks and trails dedication dollars that
would be required for this development be dedicated to the development of this park. Because parks
dedication fees are due at the time a building permit is pulled, and the developer is hoping to do that
soon, the Commission is being asked to review this proposal and make a determination relative to parks
dedication fees. The cash parks dedication for the proposed development is projected at approximately
$102,235 based on 32 acres of land and the cash trails dedication is proposed to be $27,920. Because this is
a valuable piece of commercial property, staff would recommend that a provision be made that should
the property ever be sold that a cash parks and trails dedication would be immediately required. The
Commission is being asked to review and recommend whether the cash dedications should be used for
the development of a park at this site.
Mr. Beaulieu addressed the Commission explaining that Skyline Displays had built a playground
structure in Burnsville using their employees and several community volunteers. They would like to
attempt a similar project at this site.
David Anderson from The Anderson Group Architects, Ltd.reviewed the concept plan for
Discovery Park. He pointed out the significance of the historic Schmidt farm and the plan to preserve a
small grove of oaks. The master plan is proposed to divide the park into 3 zones; a natural area, an area
for community events and a discovery play zone. This project is intended as a community building
project. The plan was further reviewed pointing out connecting trails, nature trails, parking, special
events area, comfort station, upper plaza, symbolic oak tree plaza, maze with observation tower,
community garden plots, retainage pond, picnic area, sheltered picnic site, Discover Trail and other
miscellaneous components.
Member Markell asked what the developer's time line was for the development of this park. Mr.
Beaulieu responded that they would like to do the central plaza area surrounding the symbolic oak tree
with their employees some time in July. They are hopeful that the grading and planting will be
completed by the end of July.
Member Markell suggested that the Recreation Sub-committee become involved in the review of
this proposal. Member Rudolph commented that he was slightly familiar with the proposal but
identified some of the issues that the Commission would need to address. Those included identifying if
this was the best way to spend these parks dedication dollars and addressing liability issues should the
property remain private but be open to the public. He opined that this was a great project and was
excited about the potential it provided. Rudolph asked if the cash parks dedication fees were waived,
and the land use changed in the future, could the City collect parks and trails dedication fees at that time.
Director Vraa responded that that option could be incorporated into an agreement with Skyline Displays.
Advisory Parks Commission
Minutes of March 16,1998 Meeting
Page 4
Member Vincent opined that based on the amount of the cash parks dedication this seems to be a
small investment in providing the community with this type of amenity. He viewed it as a great asset
and entreauprenural opportunity.
Following further brief discussion, Michael Vincent moved, Barbara Johnson seconded with all
members voting in favor to delay the collection of parks and trails dedication fees for Skyline Displays,
Inc. It was further recommended that this issue be deferred to sub-committee for further review and then
brought back to the Commission for subsequent parks/ trails recommendations.
Member Petersen asked what type of signage would be placed on the corner of Lexington and
Yankee Doodle Road. Mr. Beaulieu responded that they expect the corner sign to identify the park
whereas the corporate signage will be placed nearer to the entrance of the building on the interior of the
site.
REVISIONS TO DRAFT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that a letter had been written to Chair Markell from
Commission Member Davis. The letter expressed concern for the revision that affects Goal #2 in the
Natural Resources section of the 1/30/98 CC/APC Subcommittee Final Draft of the Comprehensive Plan
Update. Member Markell stated that the issue was well laid out and would like to see the changes
recommended by Member Davis incorporated into the Update.
Planner Farnham stated that the plan was still in a draft form and that she would pass the
Commission's comments on to the City Council. The Council will review the update later this summer or
fall. She stated there would also be further public review.
Michael Vincent moved, Barbara Johnson seconded with all members voting in favor to forward
Member Davis' letter to the City Council for their review.
RANKING CRITERIA FOR OPPORTUNITY FUNDS
Director Vraa explained that a request to use Opportunity Funds had been received, however, no
criteria was in place to review that request. The Acquisition/ Development Sub-committee met in a
workshop session to review those criteria.
Superintendent Peterson reviewed the criteria identified as well as changes that occurred during
the discussion. Member Rudolph added that the goal is to determine whether a request meets the
criteria, not to assess the request being made.
Michael Vincent moved, John Rudolph seconded with all members voting in favor to make the
following recommendations for criteria to evaluate projects proposed for CIP opportunity set-aside
funds:
1. Is the project identified on the 1997 overall Parks CIP Evaluation Summary, but was not
funded?
2. Is the project in conflict with any project on the CIP Recommended for Funding List?
3. Does the proposed project enhance both public and private recreational programming
options?
Advisory Parks Commission
Minutes of March 16,1998 Meeting
Page 5
4. Are the benefits of the proposed improvement enduring over an extended period of time?
5. Is the proposed project inconsistent with the suggested park's Master Plan?
6. Is the project appropriate for the park suggested or is another park appropriate?
7. Does the proposed project fit the Department's facility design standards? (MANDATORY)
8. Is the proposed project's time frame flexible to allow incorporation into the Department's
annual work plan within one to three years?
9. Is the proposed budget benefiting a wide segment of the community? What % of participants
are Eagan residents?
10. Is the proposed cost participation contribution representative of the groups' ability to pay?
(MANDATORY)
11. Is the cost participation pay back received in no more than three annual installments?
12. Are there any other unique or special features?
NEW BUSINESS
FAITHFUL SHEPHERD SCHOOL
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that the proposed development is east of the Skyline
Displays proposal reviewed earlier in the meeting. The Commission is being asked to work out an
agreement with Faithful Shepherd Catholic Elementary School to provide for the use of their playfields in
lieu of park dedication fees. Vraa explained that the school proposed to develop the fields and that the
City would be allowed to use and schedule them during off-school hours for team use. It was noted that
the park dedication fees for this development would be approximately $84,000 and the trail dedication
fees, approximately $21,000. It is anticipated that grading would begin this year with the fields being
ready for the 2000-2001 school year. Extensive trails are planned not only on school property but also
connecting to areas surrounding the development.
Chuck Hall, representing the developer, reviewed the plan further pointing out the primary
access from Yankee Doodle Road and the secondary access off Discovery Road. He added that the
athletic fields are planned to be full sized so that they can be used by a larger number of participants.
They are hoping to share the use of the fields with the City of Eagan, similar to the arrangements that
exist with some of the elementary and secondary public schools in Eagan. He wanted to know if the City
would be agreeable to this so the school could plan before the project continued.
Mr. Hall added that they anticipate the trail surface from Yankee Doodle may be a hard surface,
however they may consider a soft surface trail to bring folks through the wooded area. If they anticipate
opening in September 2000 they will need to accelerate the work that needs to be done on the front end of
this project. That means the rough grading will need to be done this summer, fine grading this fall
followed by seeding so that the fields can have a full year of rest before being used. In response to a
question, Mr. Hall noted there would be one softball field, one baseball field and one soccer field.
Member Vincent asked what the Commission's options were. Director Vraa responded that they
could recommend consideration of an agreement that would be similar to that done with several public
schools in Eagan. The agreement typically states that when the school is not using the fields the City
would schedule them for use by other groups. There would also be discussion relative to the type and
amount of maintenance to be done by the school and the city.
Member Vincent asked if the parking near the athletic fields would be sufficient. Mr. Hall
responded that parking would most likely occur in the bus parking area. Vincent expressed concern for
parking when there may be activities scheduled at all three fields. Mr. Hall opined that the bus parking
area could accommodate approximately ±120 parking spaces.
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Minutes of March 16,1998 Meeting
Page 6
Member Petersen asked if the developer is requesting that the parks and trails dedication fees be
waived. Director Vraa stated that cash and land are only 2 ways of dealing with park dedication. The
developer is looking for input on the concept plan from the Commission to see if they are amenable to
discussing the waiver of parks/trails dedication. Vraa noted that if it is the desire of the Commission to
move ahead, staff will meet with the school to see what type of agreement could be drawn up. This
would then come back to the Commission for approval and recommendation to the City Council.
After further brief discussion, Michael Vincent moved, Jerry Farlee seconded with all members
voting in favor to direct staff to treat this development the same as a public school using the same types
of standards to draft an agreement for shared field use in lieu of dedication fees. Members Markell and
Petersen identified themselves as members of one of the three parishes supporting this school. Director
Vraa stated that staff would continue to meet with Mr. Hall to work out an agreement
RECLAMATION OF WOOD BEAMS - FIRE ADMINISTRATION BUILDING
Director Vraa introduced this item explaining that since the Fire Administration building is being
demolished for the construction of a new building, staff looked at what could be salvaged from the
existing building. It was determined that the 21 laminated arched beams could be used in the
construction of a new park shelter. The cost to salvage the beams was set at $4,500 whereas the
replacement cost for beams such as these would be a minimum of $34,650. Photos were shared with
Commission Members not familiar with the building so they could see the beams.
Vraa continued that in looking for a location to construct a park shelter it was thought that the
area central to parking soccer fields and the ballfields at the Lexington-Diffley Athletic Complex would
be an option. In looking at constructing a 70' x 40' open sheltered area it was estimated that the cost
would be approximately $35,000 - 40,000. Funding for the beams would be from the Park Site Fund.
Member Johnson asked if the purchase of the beams or construction of an additional shelter
building was in the CIP or Master Park Plan. Director Vraa said no.
Member Vincent asked how this shelter building would look compared to other park shelter
buildings. Director Vraa explained it would be very different in that it would simply be an open covered
space. Member Markell asked if the beams could be stored for use at a later date. It was noted that an
appropriate location would need to be identified for the storage of these beams.
Following further discussion George Kubik moved and John Rudolph seconded a motion to take
advantage of the opportunity to recycle building materials and recommend the expenditure of $4,500
from the Parks Site Acquisition and Development Fund to salvage the wooden arch beams from the
existing Fire Administration Building; approve the expenditure of funds to secure the services of a
consulting engineer to prepare plans and specifications for the construction of a shelter building; and
approve the expenditure of funds (estimated at $35,000-40,000) for construction of the shelter. Those
voting Aye included Jerry Farlee, Barbara Johnson, Bonnie Karson, George Kubik, Lee Markell, Daryle
Petersen and John Rudolph. Michael Vincent voted Nay. The motion passed.
AQUATIC FACILITY UPDATE
Director Vraa explained that two informational meetings had been held to provide information
and answer questions from the public about the proposed aquatic facility. Commission Members were
also provided with the second report from Water Technology along with a reduction of the plan
presented to the public. This item will appear before the City Council on March 17 when all comments
received will be provided for Council review. Vraa provided an overview of the meetings, adding that
considerable feedback had been received from the community on the preliminary plan.
Advisory Parks Commission
Minutes of March 16,1998 Meeting
Page 7
Member Markell asked if the hours of operation had been set yet. Director Vraa responded no.
Member Markell asked if the concept plan was for two separate pools. Member Petersen asked if the
flumes and/or slides would be part of the proposed first phase or second phase. Director Vraa clarified
that in order to accommodate the needed 2,000 bather load for this community, the entire proposal,
including both the zero depth entry pool and lazy river would need to be built. Should the Council
decide to proceed with only the first phase, or zero depth pool only, that portion would include a
waterslide(s) as part of it's construction.
Member Petersen opined that the 16 foot berm on the east side of the site should mitigate some of
the impact to the residents to the east. He suggested that residents provide their comments and support
for the facility. Member Karson commented positively on the plan noting that it will be attractive to
children, teens and adults.
Member Kubik asked if there was an option for residents to get nearer to the pond on the
southern portion of the site to use as a more passive area. Director Vraa opined that the steep slopes may
preclude the ponding area from further use.
Member Markell asked if there were plans to use solar energy. Director Vraa stated it was
premature to address that issue specifically. Member Karson asked if there were areas to get away from
the sun. Director Vraa responded that Water Technologies has incorporated both natural and artificial
shading areas in the design.
After further brief discussion Michael Vincent moved, Daryle Petersen seconded with all
members voting in favor to suggest to the City Council that the entire pool facility be built at one time.
PARKS DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT SELECTION
Parks Planner/Landscape Architect Lilly reminded the Commission that playgrounds at
Evergreen, Highview, River Hills and Woodhaven had been scheduled for replacement in 1998. Several
issues were considered relative to meeting ADA and CPSC requirements during the planning and
bidding of these replacement components. Each playground was not to exceed $25,000 and, given the
parameters, 20 concept plans were received. Lilly then noted that the plans were reviewed and
replacement structures selected for construction during 1998.
PARK SHELTER BUILDING - LEXINGTON DIFFLEY
Relative to the Lexington Diffley service buildings, it was noted that Jon Miller of Dimension
Architecture is completing architectural plans and construction management will be handled through
Greystone Construction. The original cost estimates exceeded the $350,000 allocated for the two
buildings, therefore, changes needed to be made to reduce the cost. The 40' height of the building was
brought down to 32', a "floating slab" foundation will be used in lieu of the traditional concrete footings
and a spray glaze or epoxy paint will be used on the restroom walls rather than burnished block to help
reduce the costs. It is hoped that bids can be opened on April 1 so that construction can begin shortly
thereafter.
Advisory Parks Commission
Minutes of March 16,1998 Meeting
Page 8
WATER RESOURCES UPDATE
1997 SAMPLING RESULTS
Water Resource Coordinator Brasch reviewed a graphical summary of summertime water clarity
monitoring records for all seven Class I direct contact recreation lakes as well as for selected Class II
indirect contact recreation lakes. He noted that the information was compiled from data collected by
resident volunteers under the Citizen Lake Monitoring Program. Brasch noted that of the Class I lakes,
four of the seven monitored were above the 6' target mean. Fish Lake and Thomas Lake, however, were
consistently below the 6' mean. Brasch noted that it would be difficult for Thomas Lake to meet the goal
because it's maximum depth is 5%z - 6. Of the Class II lakes, Bald Lake was the only one consistently
below the target mean.
POST EDUCATION SURVEY RESULTS
Coordinator Brasch explained that since 1994 the City has been involved in a cooperative water
resource education project to raise general awareness of non-point pollution control issues with residents
of the northern urbanized portion of Dakota County. In 1994 a phone survey was conducted to establish
a baseline for level of knowledge and behavior profiles prior to initiation of a county-wide program. In
1997 a second survey was conducted to provide data to compare with the 1994 survey. Brasch noted that
the survey results were included for commission review and then responded to questions Commission
Members asked.
OTHER BUSINESS AND REPORTS
FIELD ALLOCATION - EAA TRAVEL BASEBALL
Director Vraa introduced this item indicating that an issue had been raised by EAA Travel
Baseball relative to the South Suburban League and EAA's request to add a second team to the league.
Dave Jarvis, representing EAA travel baseball stated that an Eagan team (16 year olds) is
currently registered with the South Suburban league. The league recognizes the current coach's
recommendation that another Eagan team is not to be registered into the league even though there
appears to be sufficient indication that the numbers support another team. Mr. Jarvis noted that since the
league has room for another team there have been conversations with the current coach to ask permission
to have them included, however, he has refused. The representative of the South Suburban League
suggested that EAA contact the coach again to ask permission for a second team and if he still refuses
they suggested that field space be refused them.
Member Johnson asked what reason was given for denying youth to play? Mr. Jarvis responded
that the coach had indicated there was "bad blood" between him and EAA travel baseball. Member
Johnson stated this should have nothing to do with kids playing ball.
Several members suggested sending a letter to the coach encouraging him to allow the second
team into the league and emphasizing the priority of allowing kids to participate in sports. Member
Petersen opined that the South Suburban League needs to step up also and assume some responsibility in
how teams are allowed in their league rather than allowing an individual coach to make that decision and
create further friction. Member Kubik cautioned the Commission to be careful not to enter into the
politics of local leagues. Member Rudolph added that it can be intimidating and insulting to get involved
in internal politics.
Advisory Parks Commission
Minutes of March 16,1998 Meeting
Page 9
After further discussion, the Commission directed that a letter be initiated to the coach
encouraging him to re-consider the issue and allow a second team (or more, if applicable) into the league.
TRAIL CLEARING,
Director Vraa introduced this item noting that Commission Member Petersen had requested it be
added to the agenda. Vraa added that trail clearing has been a responsibility of the Public Works/Streets
Department and that the City Council will be re-visiting this issue at a follow-up meeting.
Member Petersen suggested that the Commission send a message to the City Council to continue
the evaluation process for trail clearing so that a public meeting is scheduled for input. He added that 16
out of 18 large metro areas currently clear trails; Eagan and Maple Grove are the only ones that do not.
Member Markell opined that trails should be cleared. He saw it as another measure of health for
its citizens. Member Karson stated she too would like to see an open forum but felt that connecting
arterial trails, rather than interior trails would be enough. She also expressed concern for residents
picking up after their dogs once they had additional cleared trails to walk them in the winter.
After further brief discussion, Daryle Petersen moved, Michael Vincent seconded with all
members voting in favor to let the City Council know that the Advisory Parks Commission supports
moving forward to a public forum for trail clearing options.
KIOSK UPDATE
Superintendent Peterson stated that a letter had been sent to MnDOT to see if permits were
required for right-of-way placement of kiosks. Staff is currently working with Earl F. Anderson for the
sign design and will be working on updating the map to be placed in the kiosk. It is expected that the
kiosks will be completed some time this spring.
ROUND TABLE
There was no discussion under this agenda item.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to conduct, John Rudolph moved, Barbara Johnson seconded with all
members voting in favor to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 10:25 p.m.
Secretary Date
clm.