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01-14-2026 PRSR Parks and Recreation Commission Regular Meeting Agenda Wednesday, January 14, 2026 6:30 PM Elk River City Hall ▪ Regular meeting in Council Chambers 1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. CONSIDER AGENDA 4. CONSIDER MINUTES 4.1 12-10-2025 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes 5. OPEN FORUM An opportunity to provide comments and feedback regarding items not on the agenda. Information provided in Open Forum will not be discussed at this meeting; rather, the information will be referred to staff and/or scheduled for discussion at a future meeting. 6. ACTION ITEMS 6.1 Hillside Park - Reroute Proposal 6.2 Playground - Plants and Things Recreation Complex 7. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7.1 Ridgewood Basketball Court - CIP 8. PARKS AND RECREATION MANAGER UPDATE 8.1 Parks and Recreation Manager Update 9. ANNOUNCEMENTS 10. MOTION TO ADJOURN REGULAR MEETING 11. WORK SESSION Work Sessions are less formal meetings to encourage dialog. Official action or votes are not typically taken. At the conclusion of a discussion, a simple consensus provides staff direction for execution of the item. This portion of the agenda is audio recorded but not video recorded or broadcast. Work Sessions are open to the public; however, visitors who wish to provide input must be invited by the presiding officer, assume a seat at the discussion table and provide their full name and address for the official record. 11.1 Trail Safety 12. MOTION TO ADJOURN Page 1 of 36 Meeting of the Elk River Parks and Recreation Commission Held at the Elk River City Hall December 10, 2025 Members Present: Chair Anderson, Commissioners Goodwin, Stewart, Varty, Niziolek, and Fermoyle Members Absent: Commissioner Loidolt Council Liaison: Councilmember Grupa Staff Present: Parks and Recreation Manager Jeff Shelby, Assistant City Administrator /Business Services Joe Stremcha, Senior Administrative Assistant Dawn Larson 1. Call Meeting to Order Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting of the Elk River Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Chair Anderson. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Consider Agenda Mr. Shelby suggested swapping out 6.2 and 6.3 Moved by Commissioner Fermoyle and seconded by Commissioner Goodwin to approve December 10, 2025, agenda with the change of swapping item 6.2 and item 6.3 due to Chief Kuhnly attending to discuss the ordinance. Motion carried 6-0. 4. Consider Minutes 4.1 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes 11-15-2025 Moved by Commissioner Stewart and seconded by Commissioner Varty to approve the November 15, 2025, Parks and Recreation Commission minutes. Motion carried 6-0. 5. Open Forum 6. Action Items 6.1 Park Dedication-Elk Ridge Center Seventh Addition Mr. Shelby presented his report. Page 2 of 36 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes Page 2 December 10, 2025 Moved by Commissioner Niziolek and seconded by Commissioner Goodwin to recommend that park dedication for Elk Ridge Center Seventh Addition be paid in cash for one commercial parcel, at the applicable rate at the time of recording. Motion carried 6-0. 6.2 E-Bike and Electric Powered Device Ordinance City of Elk River Police Chief Kuhnly was in attendance to answer questions. He shared that he reviewed the proposed ordinance draft and sent it to the City Attorney for additional review for consistency. He said it would be important to discuss the city sidewalks etc. as well as the trails in relation to an ordinance, possibly even downtown. He said the 20-mph speed limit seems to be an accepted speed limit but not a requirement. He questioned whether their trail systems can handle that speed limit when it comes to their designs and curves etc. He said that he understands the direction that the group conversation is going in as far as their concerns with safety on the trails. Chair Anderson asked if anyone had any questions. Chair Anderson shared said that the Commission had purposely shied away from discussing sidewalks because it wasn’t under parks. The Chief said that while the ordinance drafted so far is within the commission’s scope, the City Council will probably add more to it to make it a broader holistic approach. He asked the Commissioners what their intent is on enforcement from a public safety standpoint. Chair Anderson said he spends a lot of time in Woodland Trails Regional Park, and he says he has seen a significant shift in all things electric. He said e-bikes have changed everything and there is a definite concern for safety. He is shocked at their speed. Chair Anderson said there is an educational component needed for all, to understand what is allowed and what isn’t. He said that for example if e-motos aren’t allowed, then it is up to the parents to tell their kids where they can ride them. When they buy them, they need to check where they can ride them. The Chief shared that he thinks most of the people driving these devices are adolescents, or 10 and 12 years old. He doesn’t think the kids know how to navigate the roadway, but they know how to navigate the sidewalks because that’s what they were taught when they were toddlers. He is concerned that when children are forced to use roadways, they don’t know how to navigate them, and it becomes dangerous. Chief Kuhnly understands that when they are driving 20 mph on a path that also puts pedestrians and dogs at risk. Chair Anderson said this whole discussion started out of safety. Commissioner Stewart said that one of the things they have discussed is an educational component and includes a possible bike rodeos event with the community. Chief Kuhnly agreed this was a good idea and said that he also believes they should do an educational Page 3 of 36 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes Page 3 December 10, 2025 campaign, including regular bicycles as well. He thinks it could include social media messages as well as in person events with his staff. Chair Anderson asked the commissioners about their thoughts on the proposed ordinance before them tonight, which was prepared by Mr. Shelby with the assistance of the subcommittee of Commissioners Stewart, Niziolek and Chair Anderson. Chair Anderson said under 76.01C in the provided ordinance draft (he read it) he thinks for the purpose of not understating the obvious they could include: This shall include, but not be limited to, vehicles that resemble electric-assisted bicycles for example e-moto but exceed the 750-watt motor power limit or the 28 miles per hour maximum assisted speed limit. Commissioner Goodwin asked if the intent was to add sidewalks to it so that it is more holistic. Mr. Shelby said that the Chief just wanted to let them know that it will be the City Councils intent to add something that is tied to sidewalks and maybe particular area usage as it related to these devices. It wouldn’t change what is in here but it would be more of an additional piece so there aren’t multiple ordinances. He thinks public works; the City Council and City Attorney would put that together. Commissioner Goodwin said she still has a lot of questions about what can be ridden on the sidewalks vs. the streets etc. Mr. Shelby said he thinks a lot of people do and that’s the e- motos in particular. He explained that the bikes that can go over 28 mph no longer fall into the definition of the devices listed here such as a bike or EPMD. They must follow the rules of the road like automobiles and motorcycles and need to be licensed. They have become so quickly available and the companies that have put them out on the consumer market have not been completely transparent in terms of where they might fall into a legally gray area in terms of usage. Commissioner Goodwin said that she thinks that we need to offer some clarity to the residents of Elk River. Chair Anderson said that there are designated trails typically on 1,000’s of acres where they can be ridden on but not here in Elk River other than private property. Commissioner Goodwin is curious how to identify trails that people can be ridden on with these bikes and if there would be one created in Elk River at one of the parks. Chair Anderson said that Elk River doesn’t have parks large enough to accommodate trails for this. Mr. Shelby said that over the past couple of weeks both local and national media have started to look at the sellers of these bikes and their lack of educating the purchasers about where they can ride them. He said they don’t want to discourage residents from using the parks but that they need to act responsibly and do what’s right in the eyes of safety. Page 4 of 36 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes Page 4 December 10, 2025 Commissioner Goodwin said she doesn’t want to limit residents from where they can ride them when they have purchased them but also wants to be safe. Chair Anderson said that Hillside has trails that are attractive for these bikes to be ridden but have already seen the damage they can produce. Moved by Commissioner Stewart and seconded by Commissioner Fermoyle to recommend that the City Council approve the proposed ordinance for E-bikes and Electric Powered Devices on city trails and within city parks as presented with the addendum located in 76.01C adding e-motos in the second sentence. Motion carried 6-0. 6.3 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan Mr. Shelby presented his report. He also put together additional spreadsheets that he is providing on screen starting with park improvement. 2026 should look like what they discussed in October in terms of projects. He shared that a lot of the items listed in the future years have largely been used as placeholders. That is part of the reason the numbers look askew. He said they need to start working on a true working plan that they can use from year to year. Mr. Shelby said to do that some things that they have already started working on are needed, such as the park usage survey. They need to prioritize items to get this into a manageable working plan. Chair Anderson asked if they were specifically talking about 2026, but he said he knew they had discussed talking about the next 5 years. Mr. Shelby and Mr. Stremcha said primarily but also it is a projection of 5 years to coincide with the City Councils 5-year plan. Chair Anderson expressed his concern that they have not previously discussed the items on the spreadsheets presented by Mr. Shelby. Mr. Shelby said that what is presented tonight for 2027 and beyond are items that were placed there because they were reaching the termed life expectancy. He gave the example of Country Crossing playground this year, which was on the schedule, but they did not end up replacing it because it still had life in it. Chair Anderson said there are also several elements on this spreadsheet that are also in their framework plan. Chair Anderson said this plan has had very little vetting by the Commission and asked Mr. Shelby if he expected them to do that tonight. Mr. Stremcha pointed out that the 5-year plan has already been adopted and approved by the City Council as part of the capital improvement planning process for the 2026 to 2030 plan. The 2026 plans are the priority and as the year arrives, they should be examined as to whether it should be done, removed, or moved on to a future year. Chair Anderson asked if the Commissions focus should be the 2026 plan. Mr. Stremcha said yes. Chair Anderson said the action requested is to have a discussion. Mr. Stremcha said yes, and if they feel inclined to make an amendment, they can make a recommendation to Council to amend the plan. Chair Anderson said that he thinks it’s too late if it has already been adopted and that there are several things in the plan that he thinks are foolish, but this isn’t Page 5 of 36 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes Page 5 December 10, 2025 the venue to discuss that because they need considerable input and discussion. Mr. Shelby asked the Commission if they are good with 2026. His goal is to work with parks maintenance over the next few months to go through everything on the CIP to get a better understanding of the current conditions of items on the schedule and confirm if it is still needed or can it be moved to a future year. He would then bring those items back to the Commission to discuss and decide. Commissioner Goodwin said she remembered some discussions about taking the basketball courts out at Ridgewood during the work session and she still sees it reflected in 2026 and didn’t know what they needed to do about that. Chair Anderson confirmed that their recommendation was to take it out. Mr. Shelby said they would have to go back and look at the minutes to confirm. Commissioner Niziolek said that he is concerned because it was a lengthy discussion and now it just pops up. Commissioner Stewart said he also has a question about the master plan. He asked if because they skipped last year then the entire bill of $100,000 comes due this year. Mr. Shelby said that the $50,000 that was budgeted for in 2025 will move forward to 2026 making a total of $100,000. Chair Anderson also pointed out that there is $15,000 in the spreadsheet for Hillside Park, which they agree upon. Commissioner Goodwin also said they had discussed the turf tank so that line item is okay. Chair Anderson said that the basketball court is a duplication of community resources. Commissioner Niziolek said that the court at Salk Middle School is not far away and is a much better venue. Mr. Shelby said they can vote to make a recommendation not to pursue the replacement of that court. Mr. Stremcha explained that this spreadsheet is a planning document, and they can vote to make changes as they go along. Commissioner Niziolek said that he has concerns that they had a lengthy discussion about the basketball court being removed for 2026 and then it is still in the plan. Chair Anderson said he is concerned because Council has already approved this plan with the court still in the budget. Mr. Stremcha reiterated that the plan itself has been approved by Council, but the Commission can make a motion tonight to still amend the budget and remove the item. Chair Anderson asked when it went to City Council. Commissioner Niziolek said he is concerned that their discussions were not heard, and it didn’t show up in the presentation to City Council. Commissioner Stewart asked if there is a drop-dead date for the document they are looking at tonight so they can be prepared next year. Chair Anderson said that they had the discussion in workshop in October and he was under the impression that the commission would get a chance to review this document in November as an action item, and then that recommendation would go to City Council for approval. Mr. Stremcha said that he does think that part of it could have resulted because of when the survey and that they wanted to get results from the community before they decided to Page 6 of 36 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes Page 6 December 10, 2025 remove any amenities from a park. He reiterated that just because it is in the planning documents, it does not mean that they have to do it. Chair Anderson said once things get approved, they kind of get legs. He would have liked to represent their formal motion about this at the time the City Council looked at this item. Chair Anderson said that he thinks the easiest recommendation is that it would be a waste of money based on the duplication of community resources since there is one a block away. Commissioner Niziolek said he doesn’t want to take away recreational amenities; he just thinks there is redundancy in a tight financial budget. Moved by Commissioner Goodwin and seconded by Commissioner Fermoyle to recommend to City Council amend the CIP for capital improvement fund for 2026-2030 that the basketball courts at Deerfield/Ridgewood to be removed from the plan. Chair Anderson asked why it said Deerfield/Ridgewood because those are two separate things. Mr. Shelby said he isn’t sure, and that is the way it was set in the budget spreadsheet. Commissioner Goodwin asked if they were lumped together. Chair Anderson said it should be two specific items, but he can’t remember the details in October. Commissioner Niziolek said they aren’t sure if this line item includes the cost of one of the parks or both. Mr. Stremcha said that he would interpret as so if they wanted to remove one, they would need to rephrase the motion or they bring it back next month to discuss and take action. Chair Anderson said they need to withdraw the second on the motion then. Commissioner withdrew her second. Commissioner Goodwin withdrew her motion. Council member Grupa pointed out that this is just a plan, and they do not have to do it. Mr. Stremcha confirmed that at the end of the day staff do not have quotes to do any of these projects and it is just a document to guide them. Chair Anderson said that they voted to take out Ridgewood so he would like staff to review the minutes from October and confirm if this is for one court or the other or both. Staff will determine if having both parks listed in the line it is a typo or not, and which basketball court should be included Deerfield or Ridgewood. Commissioner Niziolek asked if adequate information had been collected for both Deerfield and Ridgewood as far as use of the basketball. Mr. Stremcha and Mr. Shelby said next year they could do a survey and then move it to 2027 potentially. 7 Parks and Recreation Manager Update 7.1 Parks and Recreation Manager Update Mr. Shelby presented his report. Page 7 of 36 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes Page 7 December 10, 2025 8. Announcements 9. Motion to Adjourn Moved by Commissioner Fermoyle and seconded by Goodwin Commissioner to adjourn to the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting at 7:38 p.m. Motion carried 6-0. Minutes prepared by Dawn Larson. ___________________ Dave Anderson, Chair ___________________ Tina Allard, City Clerk Page 8 of 36 The Elk River Vision A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity Request for Action To Parks and Recreation Commission Item Number 6.1 Meeting Date January 14, 2026 Prepared By Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager Item Description Hillside Park - Reroute Proposal Reviewed by Jeff Shelby Joe Stremcha Action Requested Recommend, by motion, staff proceed with the rerouting of trail section 3 at Hillside Park in partnership with the park volunteers. Background/Discussion Derek Burchill, the park steward at Hillside Park, has requested a rerouting in Section 3 at Hillside Park. The proposal is included for review. Financial Impact Approximately $3,000 in lumber from the Park Improvement Fund. This is within the funds budgeted for Hillside Park in 2026. Mission/Policy/Goal Opportunity to live, work, and play. Work with citizens to achieve goals. Attachments 1. Hillside sec 3 reroute proposal 2. Hillside section 3 reroute map Page 9 of 36 To Whom it May Concern: Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists would like to propose constructing a reroute of the beginning of section 3 at Hillside Mountain Bike Park in Elk River, MN. Why do we need the reroute? The section of trail to be rerouted is the initial climb into section 3. It is a steep climb that gets eroded due to rainwater and snow melt draining, as well as rider wear and tear. It needs to be repaired several times each dirt season. The reroute would be a much longer, meandering trail that reaches the top of the hill more gradually to avoid the constant need for repairs. This would also help a secondary goal of adding more trail milage to the park. Who will build the new trail and how will it be built? The current plan is to build the new trail with all volunteer labor. Currently there are 6 regular members of the trail crew plus others that join us occasionally. The Elk River and Rockford high school mountain bike teams that have also expressed interest in helping out with trail work. We would advertise the need for more volunteers. A lot of the work will be with hand tools but we will need to rent some equipment such as a mini excavator and mini skid steer to help in the construction. There is the possibility of a contractor being hired by MORC to assist in the construction if MORC funds allow. Proposal to reroute the beginning of Section 3 Hillside Mountain Bike Park – Elk River, MN Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists Page 10 of 36 What will the new trail look like? See attached map. The reroute will start out at the wooded area next to the prairie edge and continue on fairly flat grade to the first right hand curve. The first right hand curve starts the uphill traverse on the northern hillside and takes the rider through scrub brush and light tree cover. The second left hand curve will be a sharper turn, possibly a switchback. Once around the curve, the rider will continue to traverse the northern hillside around the east side and ultimately up to the wooded hilltop. The trail will split into 2 or 3 options, each one with a wooden feature starting the trip downhill through the scrub brush area. The current idea for these wooden features would be designed to include an easy, intermediate and a difficult feature, so all skill levels can ride the trail. Once past the features, the rider will go downhill along the old trail to a wooden berm that will point them back uphill. This berm will need to be wooden to allow for water drainage, a dirt berm would collect water like a bathtub, so it would not be sustainable. From the berm, the rider will enter the woods again, gradually traversing and climbing the southwest side of the hill to the south side of the hilltop and rejoin the existing trail. What is the timeline for the construction, and how will it impact park users during the construction phase? We are hoping to start construction in the spring of 2026. Depending on volunteer turnout and the potential of hiring a contractor, it is possible to finish it by the end of 2026 but it is unlikely. It is more probable that it would be able to open sometime in the 2027 dirt season. We will be keeping the current trail open during construction so the users should not be affected at all. We will be able to construct the vast majority of the trail without detouring the current trail with the exception of the last steps of construction when we need to build the new wooden features over the current trail. At that point in time, we will open the new reroute and close the old climb trail. There would be a temporary ride- around the wooden features at the top until they are ready to open. Any environmental impacts? In the process of construction we will be removing mostly scrub brush and buckthorn. There a few small (6” or less) dead trees that will be taken out as well. The reroute was designed to go around all live trees that are larger than 2”. The drainage off the hill should not be affected by the addition of the trail, no erosion is expected. Page 11 of 36 What would we need from the city? Budgetary concerns? We will need lumber, dirt, rocks and equipment for the construction. I was hoping the city could help us with some, if not all, the lumber and dirt. I would estimate we would need about $3000 in green treated lumber. We would also need about 20-30 yards of dirt, the dirt that has been supplied by the city in the recent past would work great. We have a rock pile by the container that I think would be enough rocks for the project. I am requesting that the city loan us the mini skid steer again occasionally throughout the build. I am asking for equipment rental and lumber money in my 2026 MORC budget so the city does not need to carry the full load. I anticipate MORC will be able to cover all equipment rental fees and some of the lumber costs. Thank you for your consideration of this project, I hope to hear from you soon! Please let me know if there are any questions or concerns and I will be happy to address them. Derek Burchill Hillside Mountain Bike Park Trail Steward Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists (MORC) Burchill.Derek@gmail.com 763-807-1000 Page 12 of 36 Page 13 of 36 The Elk River Vision A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity Request for Action To Parks and Recreation Commission Item Number 6.2 Meeting Date January 14, 2026 Prepared By Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager Item Description Playground - Plants and Things Recreation Complex Reviewed by Jeff Shelby Joe Stremcha Action Requested Discuss playground safety at the PT Complex. Recommend, by motion, the City Council approve option _____ to improve playground safety at the PT Complex (Commission to discuss their preferred option). ▪ Option A — Adding protective netting to the PT Complex playground. ▪ Option B — Moving the PT Complex playground across the parking area and access road to the east. Background/Discussion The shade structure covering the playground at PT Complex will be removed this spring at the direction of the City Council. The structure did not perform as hoped and the city has worked with the contractor on the removal and financial reimbursement due to the city. Staff will present two options for improvement to the playground structure/area. The first involves installing protective netting over the playground structure where it currently resides. The second involves moving the playground structure to the east where netting would not be necessary. Financial Impact Costs will vary based on the recommendation, but will fall within the reimbursed amount. Mission/Policy/Goal Opportunity to live, work, and play. Responsible for every dollar - good stewards. Work with citizens to achieve goals. Attachments 1. Duluth Nets Proposal 2. Pole Installation Proposal 3. SMI Pole and Net Proposal 4. Map at PTC Page 14 of 36 5. LSI Proposal to Move Page 15 of 36 Page 16 of 36 Page 17 of 36 Page 18 of 36 Page 19 of 36 Page 20 of 36 Page 21 of 36 Page 22 of 36 The Elk River Vision A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity Request for Action To Parks and Recreation Commission Item Number 7.1 Meeting Date January 14, 2026 Prepared By Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager Item Description Ridgewood Basketball Court - CIP Reviewed by Jeff Shelby Joe Stremcha Action Requested Discuss obtaining user feedback at Ridgewood Park in conjunction with amending the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan to remove costs associated with scheduled improvements at that park. Background/Discussion During the October commission meeting, Commissioner Niziolek expressed a desire to remove the planned improvements at Ridgewood Park from the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan. The planned improvement was to resurface the basketball court at the park. Commissioner Niziolek cited the park's close proximity to the basketball courts at Salk Middle School as justification for removing the Ridgewood Park item from the CIP. At the December commission meeting, the commission asked for clarification on the item's inclusion in the 2026 CIP. Staff explained that because the initial item was discussed in a work session and not voted on in formal session, it was left in the 2026 plan, but that the plan can be amended at any time. The commission also inquired about any user data supporting any decision made with regard to the improvements. Staff recommends obtaining user feedback relating to the basketball court at Ridgewood via the Park Usage Survey that was adopted in 2025. At the commission's direction, staff could make the survey available to users in Region 3 (where Ridgewood resides) within the next few weeks in order to compile any feedback. The commission could then take that feedback into consideration in making a decision about amending the CIP. Deerfield was inadvertently attached to the discussion, but the improvements to Deerfield were carried out in 2025, so Deerfield does not need to be included in the decision regarding Ridgewood. Financial Impact If the CIP is amended to remove the Ridgewood improvements, the money will remain in the Park Improvement Fund. Mission/Policy/Goal Responsible for every dollar - good stewards. Attachments 1. October Work Session Minutes Page 23 of 36 2. Park Improvement Fund - CIP Page 24 of 36 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes October 8, 2025 --------- Page 7 of 10 10. ANNOUNCEMENTS 11. MOTION TO ADJOURN REGULAR MEETING Moved by Commissioner Goodwin and seconded by Commissioner Fermoyle to adjourn the regular meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission at 8:01 p.m. Motion carried 5-0. Commissioner Varty left at 8:01p.m. 12. WORK SESSION 12.1 2026 Capital Improvement Mr. Shelby reviewed the budget handouts which will be provided as an attachment to the minutes. He reviewed the park improvement fund first. He explained the recommendations that were determined following his meeting with Mr. Baas, the City of Elk River Park Maintenance Foreman. Mr. Shelby explained what a turf tank is. He shared that he and staff are working on creating a flag football program in the spring which will necessitate more lining of the fields. The manpower required to do this would be eased by the leasing of this machine. It would be leased for three years at the cost of $16,000 per year. Chair Anderson said that if this is the only way they are going to get it then should it come out of this fund. Mr. Stremcha said that it is up to the commission and what they recommend, but the general fund could also be an option. Commissioner Niziolek said that he thinks it seems like it should come out of a park’s maintenance type of fund, but he does think it should be pursued but find a different source of funding. Commissioner Goodwin asked what this machine is and if it is better to purchase or lease. Mr. Shelby said that this machine is typically leased because they are so expensive. Commissioner Goodwin also agrees that she thinks this falls into the park’s maintenance budget. Chair Anderson said that if this is an ongoing annual expense and saves on labor and is a piece of equipment that they are renting, then they should pursue it if it is the only way it is going to get done but it should be under an alternative funding source in future years. Commissioner Stewart asked Mr. Shelby if he knew how many hours in labor Mr. Baas thought he would save. Mr. Shelby said that is something he thinks Mr. Baas was working on but it can be used in any field and city wide so it would help with labor. Chair Anderson asked if they could change the paint and use it to stripe the trails. Mr. Shelby said he isn’t sure what all the capabilities are quite yet, but he can follow up with the company to clarify all of that. Commissioner Stewart said that if it is going to be an ongoing expense then they should find another way to pay for it other than the Parks and Recreation budget. Commissioner Niziolek said he wanted to say two things before he had to leave for the night. He thinks that the Ridgewood East court usage doesn’t warrant the cost of replacement because Salk Junior High School has a nicer court that is nearby. He thinks they should tear it out and not replace it. He thinks if they replace it, they would be wasting the $30,000. Commissioner Niziolek also thinks that they need to stripe the trails. He said that he is concerned there could be a bad collision at 20 mph. He thinks there will be serious injuries and maybe a death. He Mr. Shelby reviewed the budget handouts which will be provided as an attachment to the minutes. He Mr. Shelby reviewed the budget handouts which will be provided as an attachment to the minutes. He reviewed the park improvement fund first. He explained the recommendations that were determined reviewed the park improvement fund first. He explained the recommendations that were determined following his meeting with Mr. Baas, the City of Elk River Park Maintenance Foreman. following his meeting with Mr. Baas, the City of Elk River Park Maintenance Foreman. Mr. Shelby explained what a turf tank is. He shared that he and staff are working on creating a flag Mr. Shelby explained what a turf tank is. He shared that he and staff are working on creating a flag football program in the spring which will necessitate more lining of the fields. The manpower required football program in the spring which will necessitate more lining of the fields. The manpower required to do this would be eased by the leasing of this machine. It would be leased for three years at the cost to do this would be eased by the leasing of this machine. It would be leased for three years at the cost Chair Anderson said that if this is the only way they are going to get it then should it come out of this Chair Anderson said that if this is the only way they are going to get it then should it come out of this fund. Mr. Stremcha said that it is up to the commission and what they recommend, but the general fund fund. Mr. Stremcha said that it is up to the commission and what they recommend, but the general fund could also be an option. Commissioner Niziolek said that he thinks it seems like it should come out of a could also be an option. Commissioner Niziolek said that he thinks it seems like it should come out of a s maintenance type of fund, but he does think it should be pursued but find a different source of s maintenance type of fund, but he does think it should be pursued but find a different source of Commissioner Goodwin asked what this machine is and if it is better to purchase or lease. Mr. Shelby Commissioner Goodwin asked what this machine is and if it is better to purchase or lease. Mr. Shelby said that this machine is typically leased because they are so expensive. Commissioner Goodwin also said that this machine is typically leased because they are so expensive. Commissioner Goodwin also agrees that she thinks this falls into the parkagrees that she thinks this falls into the park Chair Anderson said that if this is an ongoing annual expense and saves on labor and is a piece of Chair Anderson said that if this is an ongoing annual expense and saves on labor and is a piece of equipment that they are renting, then they should pursue it if it is the only way it is going to get done equipment that they are renting, then they should pursue it if it is the only way it is going to get done Page 25 of 36 PARK IMPROVEMENT FUND 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Beginning Balance $319,900 $391,750 $163,250 ($1,194,250)($1,871,050) Revenues Transfer In - Liquor Fund $250,000.00 $250,000.00 $250,000.00 $250,000.00 $250,000.00 Sponsorship $35,000.00 $35,000.00 $35,000.00 $35,000.00 $35,000.00 Total Revenues $285,000.00 $285,000.00 $285,000.00 $285,000.00 $285,000.00 Projects Basketball Courts - Deerfield/Ridgewood $30,000 ---- Field Lining - Turf Tank $16,000 $16,000 $16,000 -- Hillside Park Improvements $15,000 ---- Park Improvement - Miscellaneous $16,250 $10,000 --- Parks & Recreation Master Plan $100,000 ---- Plants and Things Recreation Complex $35,000 $35,000 $35,000 $35,000 $35,000.00 Country Crossings Basketball Court -$10,000 --- Dave Anderson AC Infield Recon -$60,000 --- Lions Park Shelters -$300,000 --- Playground/Basketball Court - Riverplace -$185,000 --- Playgrounds - Country Crossing/Trott Brook -$125,000 --- Rivers Edge Park Fountain -$75,000 --- Trott Brook Basketball Court -$9,000 --- Trott Brook Tennis Court -$15,000 --- Dave Anderson AC-Lighting --$600,000 -- Dave Anderson Athletic Complex Fencing --$300,000 -- Highlands Park Playground Replacement --$150,000 -- Lions Park Basketball Court Replacement --$175,000 -- PTAC Field Reconstruction --$40,000 -- Barrington Park Basketball Court ---$30,000 - Dave Anderson AC Concessions Bldg ---$250,000 - Woodland Trails Bituminous Trail Replacement ---$646,800 - Kliever Point Park Basketball Court ----$30,000 Kliever Point Park Playground Replacement ----$150,000 Ridgewood East Park Basketball Court ----$3,000 West Oaks Park Basketball Court ----$30,000 West Oaks Playground Replacement ----$150,000 Windsor Park Playground Replacement ----$150,000 Expenditures $212,250 $840,000 $1,316,000 $961,800 $548,000 Ending Balance $391,750 ($163,250)($1,194,250)($1,871,050)($2,134,050) Page 26 of 36 Memorandum To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Jeff Shelby, Parks and Recreation Manager Date: January 14, 2026 Subject: Parks and Recreation Staff Report Senior Activity Center 2025 was another busy and successful year at the Senior Activity Center. Total yearly attendance reached 18,347 visits; an increase of 797 visitors compared to 2024. Average daily attendance also rose, with 74 check-ins per day, up from 71 in 2024. We ended the year with 557 total members. Programming remained strong and diverse, with 12 trips, 42 presentations, 25 art classes, 48 special events, and 21 ongoing activities offered throughout the year. Membership interest has remained high, moving into the new year. As of January 6, 347 memberships have already been sold. A new volunteer greeter began in January, allowing the Center to have additional support at the front desk with a volunteer Monday through Friday mornings, with each shift lasting 2–3 hours. We have been told that the addition of volunteer greeters really enhances the member check-in experience. Community Events The downtown tree and holiday display is scheduled to be taken down January 14. We received 230 letters to Santa, and with the help of five RSVP elves who generously volunteered their time, all response letters were mailed in time for Christmas. The Winter Walks continue to be popular and well attended. The final Winter Walk of the season will take place on Monday, February 9, at 6:00 p.m. Vendor registration opened earlier this week for the summer farmers market, Elk RiverFest, and community garden plots. Sports/Programs We received our revenue check from Rent.Fun for kayak rentals at Orono Park for the summer of 2025. For 2025, we had 240 total rentals. Our revenue share was $2,357.64. Our total kayak revenue is $7,643 from 838 rentals in 3 years of service. We have 2 years left on our initial agreement before considering the renewal of the kiosk. Winter women’s volleyball started on Monday this week. The league is full with 20 teams registered. Co- ed volleyball started last night. The league is full with six teams registered. Men’s basketball starts tomorrow, and the league is also full with six teams registered. Page 27 of 36 Registration for our new NFL Flag football program opened on January 5. The league will start in mid- April, and we anticipate this to be a popular program as we are working in collaboration with the Elk River Youth Football Association to grow this program. Breakaway Youth Hockey League registration is open until mid-February. Ice Rink The Handke Pit opened for the season on December 15. The warming house has been open for 15 days since that date. We have had almost 1800 users of the rink during those days. Ebike Ordinance Last month, the commission recommended a draft of a potential ebike ordinance. The draft was sent to the city attorney for review. The attorney provided staff with suggested changes largely related to language and clarity. The City Council viewed and discussed the draft and the suggested changes at their December 15 meeting. The council asked staff to incorporate the suggested changes for formal adoption of the ordinance later this month. Both the original draft with the attorney’s suggestions and the draft incorporating the suggestions are attached. Page 28 of 36 Page 29 of 36 Page 30 of 36 Page 31 of 36 Page 32 of 36 CHAPTER 76: REGULATION OF ELECTRIC-ASSISTED BICYCLES, MOTORIZED FOOT SCOOTERS, AND ELECTRIC PERSONAL ASSISTIVE MOBILITY DEVICES ON PAVED CITY TRAILS § 76.01. DEFINITIONS. (A) Electric-Assisted Bicycle. The term "electric-assisted bicycle" shall have the meaning ascribed to it in Minnesota Statutes Section 169.011, Subdivision 27, as amended. This definition includes all Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 electric-assisted bicycles, as defined in Minnesota Statutes Section 169.011, Subdivisions 15a, 15b and 15c, with factory installed fully functional pedals. This definition does not include vehicles resembling electric-assisted bicycles equipped with an electric motor with a power output exceeding 750 watts or capable of providing assistance when the vehicle reaches a speed exceeding 28 miles per hour. (B) Motorized Foot Scooter. The term “motorized foot scooter” shall mean any foot scooter with handlebars, designed to be stood or sat on, and powered by an electric motor able to propel the device with or without human assistance. (C) Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device (EPAMD). The term "EPAMD" shall have the meaning ascribed to it in Minnesota Statutes Section 169.011, Subdivision 26, as amended. (D) Paved City Trail. The term "Paved City Trail" shall mean any designated bicycle trail, bikeway, multi-use trail, or shared-use trail which is surfaced with asphalt, concrete, or similar hard material, and is located upon public land and under the ownership, jurisdiction, or maintenance of the City of Elk River. For the purposes of this Chapter, the term specifically excludes streets, highways, and public sidewalks. § 76.02. OPERATION ON PAVED CITY TRAILS. (A) Applicability. This section shall govern the operation of electric-assisted bicycles, motorized foot scooters, and Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Devices (EPAMDs) exclusively upon any Paved City Trail. The operation of such vehicles on streets, Page 33 of 36 highways, or public sidewalks shall be governed by other applicable City Code provisions and Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 169. (B) Maximum Speed Limit. No person shall operate an electric-assisted bicycle, motorized foot scooter, or EPAMD upon any Paved City Trail at a rate of speed in excess of 20 miles per hour (mph). This speed restriction shall apply regardless of the maximum assisted speed authorized by Minnesota Statute for the class of electric-assisted bicycle being operated. (C) Reasonable and Prudent Speed. Notwithstanding the maximum speed limit established in subsection (B), the operator of an electric-assisted bicycle, motorized foot scooter, or EPAMD shall at all times operate the vehicle at a speed that is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing, including, but not limited to, the trail surface conditions, trail width, visibility, and the presence of pedestrians or other trail users. (D) Yielding to Others. The operator of an electric-assisted bicycle, motorized foot scooter, or EPAMD must at all times yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians and other trail users operating non-motorized devices or vehicles. The operator of an electric-assisted bicycle, motorized foot scooter, or EPAMD shall decrease speed and give an audible signal before overtaking and passing any person proceeding in the same direction. § 76.03. OPERATION ON UNPAVED TRAILS, GRASS AREAS, PLAYGROUNDS, AND SKATE PARKS (A) General Prohibition. The operation of any electric-assisted bicycle, motorized foot scooter, or EPAMD shall be strictly prohibited on any unpaved, natural surface, grass, or dirt trails, playground (including nature play areas), skate parks, and on any unimproved park land or grass area located within the City of Elk River. (B) Exception for Hillside Park. Notwithstanding the general prohibition in subsection (A), only Class 1 electric-assisted bicycles are permitted for use on the designated, unpaved recreational trails located within Hillside Park. Page 34 of 36 (C) Continued Prohibition. The prohibition established in subsection (A) shall continue to apply to the operation of Class 2 and Class 3 electric-assisted bicycles, motorized foot scooters, and EPAMDs within Hillside Park. § 76.04. PROHIBITION OF OTHER MOTORIZED VEHICLES AND INTERNAL COMBUSTION POWERED DEVICES. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter, the operation of any motorized vehicle or device other than an electric-assisted bicycle, motorized foot scooter, or EPAMD, including any device powered by an internal combustion engine, is strictly prohibited on all Paved City Trails, unpaved trails, playgrounds (including nature play areas), skate parks, natural surfaces, unimproved park land, or grass areas located within the City of Elk River. § 76.05. GENERAL EXCLUSIONS. The regulations and prohibitions set forth in this Chapter shall not apply to the operation of any manual or motorized wheelchair, scooter, tricycle, or similar device used by a disabled person as a substitute for walking. § 76.06. VIOLATION AND PENALTY. (A) Violation. Any person violating any provision of this chapter shall be guilty of a petty misdemeanor. (B) Enforcement. The Elk River Police Department, or any authorized Code Enforcement Official, shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter. Page 35 of 36 The Elk River Vision A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity Request for Action To Parks and Recreation Commission Item Number 11.1 Meeting Date January 14, 2026 Prepared By Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager Item Description Trail Safety Reviewed by Jeff Shelby Joe Stremcha Action Requested Discuss trail safety. Background/Discussion With the newly created ebike ordinance, several commissioners expressed a desire to discuss potential safety measures that could be put in place along the city's trails. Striping of the trails and signage at park kiosks has been mentioned as potential improvements. The commission will discuss the subject and provide direction to staff. Financial Impact To be determined based on the desired improvements. Mission/Policy/Goal Work with citizens to achieve goals. Appropriately govern in an ever-changing environment. Attachments None Page 36 of 36