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03-13-2002 PR MIN . MEETING OF THE ELK RIVER PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION HELD AT THE ELK RIVER CITY HALL WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2002 Members Present: Chair Kuester; Commissioners Anderson, Peterson, DeWall, Briggs and Sladek Members Absent: None. Staff Present: Michele McPherson, Director of Planning; Chris Leeseberg, Planner/Park Planner; Terry Bye, Park Foreman; Michele Bergh, Recreation Manager; Donna Malecha, Recording Secretary 1. Call Meeting To Order Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting of the Elk River Park and Recreation Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Kuester. 2. Consider 3/13/02 Park & Recreation Commission Agenda . COMMISSIONER ANDERSON MOVED TO APPROVE THE MARCH 13,2002, PARK & RECREATION AGENDA AS AMENDED: · Consider Revised Park Dedication Proposal for Windsor Park 3rd Addition · Consider Revised Offer by Grace Assembly of God Church · Select a Primary and an Alternate Commissioner to Serve on the Comprehensive Plan Update COMMISSIONER SLADEK SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0. 3. Consider Minutes of 2/13/02 Park & Recreation Commission Meeting COMMISSIONER BRIGGS MOVED APPROVAL OF THE FEBRUARY 13, 2002, PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES AS AMENDED: · 8.C.1. Case No. P02-03, Windsor Park 3rd Addition The motion to include 26 acres of land for park dedication with a balance dedication in cash. COMMISSIONER DEW ALL SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0. . Park & Recreation Commission Minutes March 13,2002 Page 2 . 4. Election of Officers; Chair. Vice-Chair Commissioner Anderson nominated Commissioner Peterson to serve as Chair. Hearing no other nominations, nominations were closed. COMMISSIONER SLADEK MOVED TO ACCEPT THE NOMINATION OF COMMISSIONER PETERSON TO SERVE AS CHAIR FOR THE COMING YEAR. COMMISSIONER ANDERSON SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0. Commissioner Kuester nominated Commissioner Sladek to serve as Vice-Chair. Hearing no other nominations, nominations were closed. COMMISSIONER KUESTER MOVED TO ACCEPT THE NOMINATION OF COMMISSIONER SLADEK TO SERVE AS VICE-CHAIR FOR THE COMING YEAR. COMMISSIONER ANDERSON SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0. 5. Park & Recreation Commissioner to Attend March Planning Commission and City Council Meetings a. 3/18/02 City Council Meeting Commissioner Peterson will attend the March 18, 2002 City Council meeting. . b. 3/26/02 Planning Commission Meeting Commissioner Anderson will attend the March 26, 2002 Planning Commission meeting. 6. Open Mike No one appeared for Open Mike. 7. Park Development Progress Report - Terry Bye Mr. Bye presented that this past month has been very busy plowing as winter has returned to the City. Between the snow falls, the park at Camp Cozy has been under restoration, removing many trees (predominantly Box Elder and Chinese Elm), of which are not conducive to prairie restoration, making room for many prairie plants and grasses. The north end of the Park is approximately 2/3 complete. The stumps are going to be treated with a product called T ordon, which is a chemical that kills any new growth within the stumps. . Commissioner Briggs asked a question regarding the toxicity of the chemical, T ordon, with regard to the environment and other animal/plant life. Mr. Bye replied that while T ordon is toxic, the amount used on the tree stumps results in very minimal leeching back into the environment. Commissioner Briggs also inquired about hiring a stump removal service to dispose of all stumps/trees versus using any chemicals. Mr. Bye responded that using T ordon would be the best way to treat the tree stumps for many reasons: Park & Recreation Commission Minutes March 13, 2002 Page 3 . . Approximately 800 tree stumps will multiply into thousands and become more of a nUlsance. If the stumps are not removed, the success of the prairie restoration will be short lived. And, if the City were to hire a tree removal service to remove the stumps, there would be an insurmountable amount of damage done to the established prairie land and wild flowers, versus using a small bobcat to cut and remove the stumps. . . Mr. Anderson presented an issue relating to the Woodland Trails Park. He stated that for the past 2~ weeks the ski trail usage has significantly increased. This past weekend saw 43 cars, which has been the busiest ever for a non-event on a Sunday. The skiing conditions have been excellent. Woodland Trails is getting very good coverage on Twin Cities websites, which are updated daily. An out-of-town skier created a website link asking for contributions. One contribution has been sent from that gentleman and another sent from a family in Wisconsin, along with a "thank you" letter. 8.B.1. City Recreation Update: Michele Bergh . Ms. Bergh stated that City Recreation has been working very hard to get the summer planning schedule up and running. There are several new classes being offered this year. The program brochure was sent to the printers on March 13. The brochure includes 12 pages of programming, along with an insert for YMCA classes. There will be two co- sponsored programs by the YMCA and City Recreation: Summer Power, geared for elementary school-aged children and Summer Uproar, geared toward the junior high students. To date, City Recreation has brought in over $60,000, including arena programming. Much of the money earned is due to non-resident fees. Lions Park Center is now open. Response has been very positive about the new facility, and over 498 hours has been reserved for use so far in the new facility including senior dance classes, support group meetings, brownie troop meetings, Chamber luncheons, Operation ER meetings, and even a wedding. Most of the use has been for local, non-profit groups; they are still seeing some uses coming through that include a fee, which is needed to cover the operational expenses. City Recreation is now fully staffed. Ms. Lana Huberty started with the Recreation Department on March 6th and they are now staffing for summer programs. The warming house at Lions Park has been open 36 days so far this year and the total number of users has been roughly 1,100 with the average use per day at approximately 31. The warming house at Handke Park has also been open 36 days with a total number of users at roughly 1,400 and the average use per day at approximately 40. 8.A.1. Community Events: Mississippi Oaks Neighborhood Meeting - Park Development Update . Michele McPherson, Director of Planning, presented the Mississippi Oaks Park Development Update and stated that a letter had been sent to the residents of Mississippi Oaks inviting them to attend this evening's meeting regarding the playground and proposed schedule for installation. Park & Recreation Commission Minutes March 13, 2002 Page 4 . Ms. McPherson stated that this year the City is going to be installing the playground structure that was approved in the overall concept plan in 1998. The original plan showed the playground area on the south end of the Park; however, the structure is going to be larger, so the playground has been moved to the north end of the Park in order to maximize the amount of space that will be used for unstructured play. The playground is a combination structure that will accommodate all age groups. There has been discussion of constructing a mini-BMX trail site as was done at Riverplace Park. There are two vendors the City is working with this year, Earl F. Anderson and Minnesota/Wisconsin Playground. Development of this structure is to begin in mid-June to early July and will be completed in four to six weeks. Ms. McPherson then asked the residents from Mississippi Oaks for any comments or questlOns. Ms. Michelle Kaljek, 17863 Concord Street NW presented and asked what type of material would be used in covering the playground area. Ms. McPherson responded that the material being used at Mississippi Oaks Park will be wood fiber mulch. Mr. Bye also commented by stating that there will be roughly a 14" layer of the fiber mulch that, after use, will compress down to about 9". This mulch is groomed weekly. Ms. Kaljek also asked if there was going to be a swing set anywhere in the Park. Ms. McPherson stated that there will be a swing component in the park. . Ms. Karen Mouldenhauer, 17952 Fresno Street, inquired about the mini-BMX track and stated that there is a large mix of children in the neighborhood and felt that this would not be a good idea to add to the Park, as it would attract older children. Ms. McPherson reiterated that the decision has not been made due to the amount of area the track would consume. 8.C.1. Land Use Cases: Administrative Subdivision by Ruth Moos. No. AS 02-01 Ms. McPherson presented that the subject property is located at the intersection of County Road 32 and Pascal Street. The property is 7.7 acres with an existing homestead located on the property with access to County Road 32. The proposed subdivision will create three parcels; one for the existing home, and two parcels which will be buildable with access to Pascal Street. This parcel is at the edge of an area-wide park circle, and is too small to be considered as part of a larger park; therefore, staff is recommending cash dedication. COMMISSIONER ANDERSON MOVED TO ACCEPT CASH DEDICATION. COMMISSIONER KUESTER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0. 8.C.2. Administrative Subdivision by Ron Rickers/Dick Gruys. No. AS 02-02 . Ms. McPherson stated the Commission is asked to determine park dedication requirements for an administrative subdivision request to create one buildable lot. The subject property is located at the end of Monroe Street north of 221 st Avenue. The applicant proposes to create a 12-acre buildable parcel for a home site for a family member out of the 33-acre parcel. The parcel is within an area-wide park circle identified on the Master Park Plan; however, it is not large enough to provide land for such use and staff is recommending cash dedication for one buildable lot. . . . Park & Recreation Commission Minutes March 13, 2002 Page 5 COMMISSIONER KUESTER MOVED TO RECOMMEND CASH DEDICATION FOR ONE BUILDABLE LOT. COMMISSIONER ANDERSON SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0. 8.C.3. Concept Plan: Nord Property Ms. McPherson asked the Commission to consider a concept plan for the development of the property located south of N ordic Woods and west of Meadowvale SchooL This is a 28- acre site that will be divided into approximately 50 single-family lots. Mr. Michael Black, Royal Oaks Realty, has submitted a preliminary concept plan and would like the Commission's feedback as to whether there should be land or cash dedication for this parceL Mr. Black then presented several features of the plat, including number of lots, lot sizes, and the fact that there is an existing sanitary sewer, force main that runs through the property to the eastern edge, then jogs to the northeast. There is an existing 70' utility easement in this area also, which will eliminate one lot and the lot lines will have to be adjusted; however, the utility easement will stay in place. He explained that there is a wetland that wraps around to the north edge of the property and leaves an area of high ground that is owned by Meadowvale Elementary that could possibly make very good access to the school within the 70' easement. Mr. Black stated that he was present this evening for the Commission's further direction regarding this plat. Commissioner Kuester had a concern about the location of a playground. He felt that with the existing development to the north (Nordic Woods) and the new development, there would not be ample play area for children due to the housing density in this area. He asked if the Meadowvale Elementary would be a place for the children to play and, if so how would that playground be accessed? Chair Peterson stated that this issue would be addressed at a future meeting. 8.D.1. Hillside City Park Improvements Michele McPherson, Director of Planning, presented with a brief summary of various development items for 2002. She stated that staff has been meeting internally, as well as with members of the Minnesota BLAST regarding Hillside City Park. Ms. McPherson reported that part of the goals for this year is to do an overall "master plan" for Hillside City Park. The primary focus for early this year is going to be tree removal and clean up, expansion of the Trail Head parking area, and signage on the gate for closure of trails due to various weather conditions. Another aspect of the master plan will be the timing of moving out the composting area in conjunction with some improvements at the Public Works Garage. Mr. Leeseberg, Planning Department, presented to the Commission two scale models: the first one he presented was a kiosk for Hillside City Park which would incorporate the trail map, rules, etc.; and the second was a city park sign. These signs will be installed in various Park & Recreation Commission Minutes March 13,2002 Page 6 . parks over the coming summer months. The signs are constructed of man-made concrete stones and will stand approximately 6'-7' tall. Commissioner Anderson requested that a full-size prototype be constructed. 8.D.2. Review elk River 20-Mile Race Ms. McPherson stated that at the January 9th Meeting, Ms. Mary Anderson, the new race organizer for the Elk River 20-Mile Race (previously known as the Leukemia Race), was present to discuss that event. Ms. McPherson stated that there was a condition placed on the approval of that event to require the organizer to improve the course aesthetically from the previous markings and Commissioner Kuester has requested that the Commission revisit the approval of the race to reassess the appropriateness of that condition. The general direction from the Commission was to accept the motion from the January 9th meeting with the exception to be communicated to Ms. Anderson, Race Director, that she will not be required to make the aesthetic improvements from previous race(s). Ms. Anderson will follow-up with the Commission after the Race has been completed, and Ms. McPherson will send her a letter indicating that the Commission would like some suggestion as to other volunteer time (involving clean up from the Race) which would be contributed back into the community. 8.D.3. Appoint Member to Ice Arena Commission . Ms. McPherson reported the Commissioner Dana Anderson has been appointed to the Planning Commission, and had previously been the Park and Recreation Commission's liaison to the Ice Arena Commission. She stated that the Ice Arena Commission typically meets twice a year, with an occasional third meeting to discuss any issues related to the budget or other special projects. The next meeting is Tuesday, April 2. Staff has been requested by the City Administrator to appoint someone to fill the seat vacated by Commissioner Dana Anderson. Commissioner Briggs has volunteered to fill the seat vacated by Commissioner Dana Anderson. 8.DA. Joint Meeting with City Council Ms. McPherson, Director of Planning, stated that a joint meeting date with the City Council has been set. The date is Monday, April 22 at 6 p.m., or immediately following the HRA Meeting. Ms. McPherson identified the following agenda topics: · Reviewing the Park and Recreation Director job description. · A TV regulations · Non-resident commissioners · Ecological presentation by Mike Niziolek . Ms. McPherson stated that she would like to have input from the Commission with regard to any other additional agenda items in order to prepare the agenda memo for the April meetmg. . . . Park & Recreation Commission Minutes March 13, 2002 Page 7 Chair Peterson volunteered: · Revenue sources for Parks and Recreation (generating revenue from the use that the City is getting for Woodland Trails, Lake Orono, and Hillside City Park) Commissioner Kuester suggested keeping that specific agenda item in more broad terms due to the complications it may present. 9. Information Update Items (No discussion or presentation unless requested) A. Land Use Cases - None B. Park/Trail Developments: 1. Park Dedication 2. Update Re: Grace Assembly of God Church Land Acquisition 3. Orono Park Master Plan Options & Phasing 4. River city Snow Riders Newsletter 5. Lions Park Center Article 10. Update on 2/19/02 City Council Meeting - Commissioner Briggs Commissioner Briggs presented that Council Member Kuester had a concern as to whether or not there would be a trail essentially dividing Trott Brook South and Trott Crossing, heading into Hillside Park. At the present time, the Commission has only recommended a trail at the northeasterly end of Trott Brook Crossing to provide access to Hillside Park. He stated that Ms. McPherson suggested that the residents of the developments would facilitate a trail through their own financing, via the homeowners association as this is a townhome development. 11. Update on 2/26/02 Planning Commission Meeting - Chair Peterson Chair Peterson reported that the topic was on the development of Windsor Park III, which is the development split by County Road 33. The discussion between the Commission members and the Planning Commission with regard to this being an appropriate park in giving them the density as the park continues from the south side to the north side of County Road 33. He reported that the basic consensus was that they did not feel there was a safe way to cross the street to get to the park, and the density should not be allowed on the south side of the street. Hence, the Commission voted to send this issue forward but to deny the plat based on that issue solely. Ms. McPherson stated that this issue will now be presented to the Council. . . . Park & Recreation Commission Minutes March 13, 2002 Page 8 12. Other Business 1. Consider Revised Park Dedication Proposal for Windsor Park 3rd Addition Ms. McPherson stated that the Planning Commission did review the preliminary plat of Windsor Park 3rd Addition. The Commission voted to accept land and cash for park dedication. However, she stated that the Planning Commission voted to recommend denial of the plat to the City Council, primarily due to the lack of immediate recreational opportunities for the homes within the proposed subdivision. Ms. McPherson stated that the applicant has since revised the plat in order to provide a park area within Outlot B. The Park and Recreation Commission needs to determine ifthis 1.5 acres should be public or private. COMMISSIONER KUESTER MOVED TO RECOMMEND THAT THE 1.5- ACRE AREA IN OUTLOT B BEA PRIV ATE PARK. COMMISSIONER BRIGGS SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0. 2. Consider Revised Offer by Grace Assembly of God Chuch Ms. McPherson handed out a revised offer by Grace Assembly of God Church for the 10.5- acre parcel of parkland located north and west of County Road 13. The original purchase price forthe land in December 2000 was $145,000 ($14,500 per acre), and the new proposed price is $215,000 ($20,476 per acre), an increase of $5,976 per acre or 30%. Staff requested the Commission to make a recommendation to the Council for consideration at their next meeting (March 18) regarding the revised purchase price. Commissioner Anderson commented that if there was any way to enter into a purchase agreement and, at that time, look for any grant opportunities for a buy down with the potential of a 75%-25% LA WCON cash, and some 50%-50% LA WCON cash grant in aid. He feels that even if there is an immediate exchange of funds, that there still might an opportunity to save an estimated $100,000. Ms. McPherson stated that she would check into this situation with the DNR. COMMISSIONER ANDERSON MOVED TO RECOMMEND THAT THE CITY COUNCIL PURSUE THE ACQUISITION OF THE PROPERTY AT THE CURRENT PRICE. COMMISSIONER KUESTER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0. 3. Update on the Comprehensive Plan Update Task Force Ms. McPherson presented that the City Council approved a proposal by Hoisington Korgler, Inc. to facilitate the update of the City's Comprehensive Plan. As part of that approval, it was also agreed that a task force would be established in order to accomplish that particular task. Park & Recreation Commission Minutes March 13, 2002 Page 9 Ms. McPherson stated that staff is looking for a primary and alternate member of the Park and Recreation Commission to serve on the Task Force. She stated that this will be an approximate 12 to 15 month process, however, the task force will not be meeting monthly, but will be meeting as needed, and as outlined in the scope of work. The Erst meeting is tentatively scheduled for May 2nd, with the Erst public meeting tentatively scheduled for May 16. Commissioner Kuester volunteered to serve as primary member and Chair Peterson volunteered to be the alternate member from the Park and Recreation Commission. 14. Adjournment There being no further business, COMMISSIONER KUESTER MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. COMMISSIONER SLADEK SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 6-0. The meeting of the Elk River Park & Recreation Commission adjourned at 9:27 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Donna Malecha Recording Secretary