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2018-01-09 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Tuesday, January 9, 2018- 6:30 P.M. Mendota Heights City Hall—City Council Chambers AGENDA 1.Call to Order 2.Roll Call 3.Approval of Agenda 4.Approval Of Minutes a.Approval of Minutes from December 11, 2017 Regular Meeting 5.Unfinished and New Business a.Presentation on Pickleball-John Malmgren b.Rules of Order c.Scholarship Donation Program Research d.Certified Playground Safety Inspection Research e.Student Representative Update 6.Reports a.Natural Resource Update b.Par 3 Update c.Recreation Programs Update d.Comprehensive Plan Update 7.Announcements and Commission Comments 8.Adjourn Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities are available at least 120 hours in advance. If a notice of less than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make every attempt to provide the aids. This may not, however, be possible on short notice. Please contact City Administration at 651-452-1850. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS, DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING December 11, 2017 The October meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Monday, December 11, 2017, at Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. 1. Call to Order – Chair Pat Hinderscheid called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. 2. Roll Call – The following Commissioners were present: Chair Pat Hinderscheid, Commissioners Steve Goldade, Bob Klepperich, David Miller, and Nissa Tupper. Absent: Ira Kipp and Stephanie Levine. Staff present: Assistant City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson, Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek, and Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence. 3. Approval of Agenda The agenda was approved as presented. Motion Klepperich/second Tupper. AYES 5: NAYS 0: ABSENT 2 4. Approval of Minutes from November 14, 2017 Motion Klepperich/Second Goldade to approve the minutes of the November 14, 2017 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting. AYES 5: NAYS 0: ABSENT 2 5.Unfinished and New Business 5.a Presentation on Skateboard Park – Mark Rodriguez, 3rd Lair Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence explained that this item was on the activity list and was recently requested. She then introduced Mr. Mark Rodriguez of 3rd Lair to talk about the skateboard park at Roger’s Lake Park. She noted that 3rd Lair partners with the City on the majority of its skateboard camps in the summer. Mr. Rodriguez gave a presentation on the current condition of the skateboard park and what improvements could be made. He also shared that skateboarding has experienced a boom and that there are skateboarding locations in almost every community throughout the Twin Cities and nationally. Skateboarding and action sports are some of the fastest growing participant sports in the world and will even be in the Olympics in 2020. He described the current condition of the Roger’s Lake Skateboard Park as ‘falling part’. He made the following improvement suggestions: Either fix the cracks in the ground or, better yet, pour a new cement floor/base Keep the half-pipe ramp that is there, it’s in good shape and is a gem for the park Everything else should either be rebuilt or have maintenance work done - or completely done away with - in lieu of brand-new equipment Ideally, completely rebuild the skateboard park Commissioners asked questions regarding the best materials to make the equipment, the amount of time park amenities should last, types of ramp that should be installed, how long the maintenance work Item 4 would take, and how the City could determine if there would be enough participants to make the investment worthwhile. When questioned, Mr. Rodriguez noted that the maintenance contract they have with Cottage Grove is $10,000 per year. He also noted that the cost of the new skateboard park installed in St. Louis Park was $230,000 [smaller footprint then in Mendota Heights] and is free to users. At a minimum, to re-do a park in a meaningful way, would cost approximately $250,000. The cost to just do maintenance on the Roger’s Lake Skateboard Park, minus the floor since that is outside of their expertise, would be approximately $5,000 - $10,000. Mr. Rodriguez stated that 3rd Lair would be happy to assist the City in preparing a written assessment with tiered options on items that could be done from the minimum that needs to be done, what would be nice, and what would be best case scenario. Motion Goldade/Second Miller to direct staff to work with 3rd Lair to come up with a list of fixes and improvements to the Roger’s Lake Skateboard Park, including the surface repair as an item to investigate. AYES 5: NAYS 0: ABSENT 2 5.b Bluebill Drive Right-of-Way Vacation Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek explained that a couple of months ago the City received a request to vacate an undeveloped right-of-way on the north side of Rogers Lake. Council did proceed with vacating that right-of-way known as Rogers Avenue. The homeowner to the north of this right-of-way there is a 60-foot right-of-way known as Bluebill Drive that goes all of the way out to the middle of the lake. This platted right-of-way is not serving any sub- dividable parcels and is not in the best interest of the city to retain. However, the City does have a storm sewer that goes down the center of the right-of-way, which outlets into Rogers Lake. Minor maintenance to that outlet is done by city staff and eventually that pipe would need to be replaced. If the Council were to go ahead with this right-of-way vacation they would require a 20-foot easement to be dedicated back to the city over the storm sewer. The DNR responded on the previous vacation and stated that it was located close enough to Rogers Lake Park, and that the park has ample parking and has a fishing pier and a boat launch that they saw no need on that north right-of-way for the city to maintain it for any public access. The notice has been sent to the DNR for this current vacation request and staff does not anticipate any feedback to be received from them until early February. The public hearing is to be scheduled for February 20, 2018; staff was seeking comments from the Commission on if they see any value to this 60- foot right-of-way as it exists today. Commissioners asked questions pertaining to future needs of this right-of-way in providing additional access to Rogers Lake, if ownership of the right-of-way would revert to the homeowners on either side, could the city reclaim the right-of-way once it was vacated, if there would be any cost savings or reduction in liability to the city, if the property would go back on the tax roll, how many of these right- of-way situations exist on Rogers Lake, what situations would initiate this type of request, and why would this be agreeable to the city. Commissioners expressed their opinion that this vacation sounded reasonable. 5.c Ash Tree Management Policy Revisions Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek explained that in September 2017, the Commission reviewed the current Ash Tree Management Policy. At that time, there were suggestions made by the Commission to include treatment in the policy. This revised policy does not go as far as the Commission had wanted in terms of trying to get a program going to treat private trees as Council has not really expressed a desire to offer a city-wide subsidy to treatment of private trees. Council usually holds goal setting workshop in January and this would be a good time to poll them again on how they would like to proceed with some of the Ash Tree Management. 5.d Grant Tracking Discussion Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek noted for the Commissions information that the City is a member of the Lower Mississippi Watershed Management Organization (LMRWMO). Part of that organization is to hire a consultant that maintains a Grant Tracking Database. They are consistently combing all of the other agencies websites and information that they come across to keep this database together. He stated that anyone on the Commission could review the information in the database and make a recommendation to staff and the Council on applying if they see something that would be of benefit to the City. 5.e Fee Assistance Program Discussion Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence explained that recently there has been an influx of residents seeking financial assistance in the recreation programs. Currently, the City of Mendota Heights does not have an assistance program or policy set in place. Upon investigation, it was discovered that cities surrounding Mendota Heights all have Fee Assistance Programs that have a set amount or percentage that the student would receive off if they qualify. Staff proposed a Fee Assistance Policy that they would put in place making it clear to residents what they would qualify for. It would also make it easier for staff to have a clear policy to go by. This program would only be available to Mendota Heights residents who can prove their address as part of the application. The maximum that a family would receive each calendar year would be $100 per child and would include programs such as skating, gymnastics, summer playgrounds, tennis camp, and golf camp. To be eligible for the programs, students must be enrolled in the district’s free and reduced lunch program or have a parent who is on active duty in the military. Children under the age of 18 would be eligible and they would receive a 15% reduction on each program up to a maximum of $100 per child Staff provided a summary of other community’s policies, of which Mendota Heights would fall somewhere in the middle, along with data from the MN Department of Education regarding Free & Reduced Lunch for the ISD 197 District. The commission asked questions that Ms. Lawrence answered. Suggestions included: Instead of a 15% reduction, the family would pay 15%-20% of the fee and the city would pay the rest, and the maximum per child be increased to $150-$200 per calendar year. Split the fee 50/50 with the family paying 50% and the city paying the other 50%. Follow West St. Paul’s example – 50% per child for two programs Donation program where citizens can contribute to the scholarship programs Motion Miller to adopt the same policy as West St. Paul – where individuals receive funding for half of the program fee per child, which can be used twice during the same year. Motion died for lack of a second. Motion Hinderscheid/Second Goldade that the City establish a Fee Assistance Program where eligible families would contribute 15% of the fee per child for one activity and 50% of the fee per child for a second activity; limit two activities per child per calendar year. Eligible programs would include: skating, gymnastics, summer playgrounds, tennis camp, and golf camp. AYES 5: NAYS 0: ABSENT 2 5.f Par 3 Financial Report Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence presented the Par 3 Financial Report to the commission. Par 3 had Tiger Tots Golf Camp with 24 participants, Golf Camp with 134 participants, Wednesday Night Women’s Golf League with 89 participants, and Junior Golf League with 148 participants. The estimate is that there were 6,000 rounds of golf played this year. Revenue budget was estimated to be $171,250; actual revenue as of November 30, 2017 was $145,211. Expenditures were estimated to be $140,816 and the actual expenditures was $144,128. Currently there is a $1,000 profit. However, there are recurring costs yet to be paid for December. Notable items: there was a one-time expense of the solar panels; some of the pull carts were replaced; and some unbudgeted marketing expenses. Commissioners asked questions about revenue being down and what specific groups were down, marketing expenses, and for staff to provide a comparison of 2016 to 2017. A final close-out budget will be provided to the City Council in January and staff proposed to bring that to the commission in January as well. A suggestion was made that the Commission revisit the no fee increase since the revenue has been flat over the last couple of years, especially in light of the one-time expenditures that, most likely, will continue to occur. Since the fees will be set next week, staff suggested that if the fees were to be changed they should be done at this meeting. Ms. Lawrence pulled up the comparison rate chart on the screen for the Commissioners to review. Discussion occurred over different ways of marketing to increase revenue without raising the rates. Staff suggested that the rates be raised by $1/round. Motion Miller/Second Klepperich to increase the current rates by $1/round, leaving the second additional round at $6, and leaving the foot golf at the current rate of $8/round AYES 5: NAYS 0: ABSENT 2 5.g Set Meeting Dates for 2018 Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence shared the proposed meetings dates for the Parks and Recreation Commission in 2018. It was noted that there may be a school referendum vote scheduled for Tuesday, May 8; however, that may not affect the Commission. Staff will review the State Statute about whether or not the Commission will be able to meet before 8:00 p.m. 6.Reports 6.a Parks and Recreation Commission Activity Report Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence noted that she had spoken with Community Development Director Tim Benetti in the morning and he was still compiling the information regarding goals and plans on bringing a progress summary to Council at it January 2, 2018 meeting. Both Mr. Benetti and Mr. Phil Carlson will return to the Commission in the future to provide an update in early Spring. 6.b Recreation Update Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence provided the update: Friendly Hills Warming House is almost completed; still on budget Two field trips are scheduled in December; 12/27 is bowling / movie; 12/28 is tubing. Each trip is $25/day, registration on the Mendota Heights website or in person at City Hall Staff is currently planning the Royal Ball scheduled for February 11, 2018 at the Concord Exchange Building Skiing lessons to begin at Friendly Hills Park on January 6, 2018 and will run through February 3, 2018. Registration is online or in person at City Hall The City hopes to have ice by the middle of next week [Wednesday, December 20] Gymnastic classes began Saturday, December 2; 48 youths registered this year, and will run through February 11, 2018 Certified Playground Inspection – Ms. Lawrence is currently working to compile information on the inspections and will have that information available at the January 2018 meeting Ice rinks are starting to be flooded; hours for the rinks to be posted on the City’s website and there is a rink hotline that will be updated. 6.c Natural Resources Update Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek shared that the Public Works crews attended a winter maintenance training program through Dakota County. They are looking to improve some of their salt usage to help improve some of the water quality. Tips: Use salt and sand at home Use only what you need If it’s warmer than 15 degrees use salt; if it’s colder than 15 degrees use sand After the area is warm and dry, sweep up the leftovers for reuse Suggestion was made to put sand down on the 5K trail. It was noted that Sibley High School is looking to demolish their three tennis courts and maybe staff or the commission could look into the possibility of using them for pickleball as a cost saving measure. 7. Announcements and Commission Comments Mr. Pat Hinderscheid and Mr. Ira Kipp were reappointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission at the last City Council meeting, for a 3-year term. Commissioner Nissa Tupper expressed her appreciation for the diligence staff had in preparing the materials for the meeting and for their follow-through. She really enjoyed the presentation on the skateboard park and learning more on the options as it is a good asset for the community. She also appreciated the discussion on the Fee Assistance Policy in making the City’s programming successful. She also reminded residents of the holiday lights collection box at City Hall. Commissioner David Miller complimented Ms. Lawrence on her first full meeting and her performance, which was as if she had been on the job for a year already. There was good discussion this evening and he believed that the Commission came up with good recommendations. Commissioner Bob Klepperich expressed his appreciation to Commissioners Hinderscheid and Kipp for re-upping for another three years as they are very valuable assets. He also recognized the Commission’s student intern, Clair, for her being in attendance and for being a silent partner in everything they do. Commissioner Steve Goldade noted that it was a great meeting, very well organized, and he enjoyed the conversations. Chair Pat Hinderscheid felt that a lot of ground had been covered. He expressed his appreciation for Ryan Ruzek being in attendance, that is always helpful. He acknowledged Ms. Cheryl Jacobson for attending; he noted that Ms. Lawrence did a nice job and provided good information. 8. Adjourn Motion Goldade/Second Klepperich to adjourn the meeting at 8:37 PM. AYES 5: NAYS 0: ABSENT 2 DATE: January 9, 2018 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Pat Hinderscheid, Parks and Recreation Commission Chair SUBJECT: Pickleball Discussion Background Parks and Recreation Commission Chair Pat Hinderscheid has asked John Malmgren, the past President of the Shoreview Area Pickleball Club to give a presentation about pickleball to the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission. The Shoreview pickleball club is the second largest in Minnesota with 350 members. Requested Action Informational Only. Item 5a DATE: January 9, 2018 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Rules of Order Background Each year in January it is recommended we review the Parks and Recreation Commission rules of order so that all commissioners are up-to-date and informed. Requested Action Informational Only. Item 5b Rules of Order – Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission, March 8, 2015 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION RULES OF ORDER In accordance with the City of Mendota Heights Ordinance No. 109, “Establishing A Parks and Recreation Commission,” the following rules of order are adopted by the parks and recreation commission to facilitate the performance of its duties and the exercising of its functions as a Commission created by the city council. SECTION 1. MEETING 1.1 – Time. Regular meetings of the commission are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m., unless otherwise agreed to and so stated in the agenda. When the regular meeting day falls on a legal holiday, there is no meeting that month unless otherwise noted. 1.2 - Special Meetings. Special meetings may be called by the Chairperson or the Secretary. 1.3 – Place. Meetings are held in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Victoria Curve. 1.4 – Public. All meetings and hearings, and all records and minutes are open to the public. 1.5 – Quorum. Four parks and recreation commission members, at the beginning of the meeting, constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. When a quorum is not present, the Chairperson may adjourn the meeting for the purpose of hearing interested parties on items on the agenda. No final or official action is taken at such a meeting. However, the facts and information gathered at such a meeting may be taken as a basis for action at a subsequent meeting at which a quorum is present. 1.6 – Vote. Voting is by voice. Commission members voice votes on each issue are recorded. In the event that any member shall have a financial interest in a matter before the commission, the member shall disclose the interest and refrain from voting upon the matter, and the secretary shall so record in the minutes that no vote was cast by such member. SECTION 2. ORGANIZATION 2.1 – Membership. The number of members of the Parks & Recreation Commission is established by the City Council. Three-year appointments are made by the Mayor and approved by the City Council. Rules of Order – Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission, March 8, 2015 2.2 – Absenteeism. A Commission member with four unexcused absences from regular meetings is dropped from the commission and the Secretary then informs the City Council so that another appointment is made. An absence is excused if the member notifies the Secretary or Chairperson before 4:00 p.m. of the day of the meeting that the member will be unable to attend. Minutes of the meetings will record whether the absent member was excused or not excused. 2.3 – Election of Officers. At the February meeting each year, the commission elects from its membership a Chairperson and a Vice-Chairperson. If the Chairperson retires from the commission before the next organizational meeting, the Vice-Chairperson becomes Chairperson. If both Chairperson and Vice- Chairperson retire, new officers are elected at the next meeting. If both Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson are absent from a meeting, the commission elects a temporary Chairperson by voice vote. The Secretary to the parks and recreation commission is appointed by the city administrator from the city staff. 2.4 – Tenure of Officers. The Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson take office immediately following their election and hold office until their successors are elected and assume office. 2.5 – Duties of Officers. The Chairperson, or if absent, the Vice-Chairperson presides at meetings, appoints committees and performs other duties as may be ordered by the commission. The Chairperson conducts meetings so as to keep them moving as rapidly and efficiently as possible and reminds members, witnesses and petitioners to discuss only the subject at hand. The Chairperson is a voting member of the commission. The Secretary is responsible for recording the minutes, keeping records of commission actions, conveying commission recommendations to the city council and providing general administrative and clerical service to the commission. SECTION 3. PUBLIC COMMENT 3.1 – Public Input on Agenda Items. The following procedure is followed when citizens wish to provide input into a parks and recreation commission discussion. a.Staff shall make presentation b. The commission asks questions c. The applicant shall make a presentation Rules of Order – Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission, March 8, 2015 d. The commission asks questions e.The audience is allowed to speak in favor of the request f.The audience is allowed to speak against the request g.The applicant and/or staff responds h. Commission members may ask questions throughout the discussion 3.2 – Public Comment. The parks and recreation commission does not hold public hearings, but may from time to time have public comment. SECTION 4. MISCELLANEOUS 4.1 Amendments. These Rules of Order may be amended with the approval by voice vote by a majority (four) of the members of the parks and recreation commission. 4.1 Adoption. These Rules of Order were duly adopted by the Parks and Recreation Commission of the City of Mendota Heights on the 13th day of April, 2010. DATE: January 9, 2018 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Scholarship Donation Program Research Background At the December Parks and Recreation Commission meeting it was requested that staff research the option of a scholarship opportunity for residents to give money to support a youth recreation scholarship fund. Staff attended an MRPA (Minnesota Recreation Professionals Association) meeting on December 15, 2017. The topic of the meeting was: Programming for Low Income Families/Areas. At the meeting Mendota Heights staff brought up the topic of scholarship donation programs in surrounding communities. Here are some of the programs that surrounding cities use: •Water bill donation program (round up to the next dollar) o In the city used, this was not successful. A low percentage of residents donated and with staff time no revenue for the donation program was generated •5k run to support the donation program •Sponsorship program at local parks and facilities •Reaching out to local businesses to donate money to scholarship donation program •Registration checkout option o Checking to see if this is something our registration system is even able to do Requested Action Informational Only. Item 5c DATE: January 9, 2018 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Research Background The Parks and Recreation Commission requested that staff research the Certified Playground Safety Inspector program. Thus, staff researched the program and talked to surrounding cities to determine their playground safety procedures. The Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification is offered through the NRPA (National Recreation and Park Association). This is the industry leading certification program. The certification program offers comprehensive, up-to-date training on playground safety issues including: hazard identification, equipment specifications, surfacing requirements, and risk management methods. To be eligible for the certification an applicant must be 18 years of age or older and have a high school diploma or equivalent. The next local course offering is in Plymouth, MN on March 14-16. The course costs $680 per person. This includes the CPSI Course and Certification Exam. Currently, Mendota Heights staff do a visual walk through 3-4 times a month to check for loose hardware, lubrication needs, and to keep the rubber matting cleaned off. Wood chips are added to playground areas when necessary on a rotating schedule of 2-3 playgrounds a year. Staff discussed the CPSI program with local Parks and Recreation staff: •West Saint Paul has 1 Parks Maintenance staff that is certified. The city’s playgrounds are inspected once a month. •South Saint Paul does inspections once a year. The city’s staff use the annual playground inspection checklist from the MN League of Cities. •Eagan has 2 Parks Maintenance staff that are certified. The city’s staff inspect annually in the spring and use a tablet to document their inspection. •Inver Grove Heights has a park staff member who is certified. The city’s staff inspects their playgrounds once a month from April-October. Item 5d Attached is the MN League of Cities playground checklist. Requested Action Informational only. League of Minnesota Cities Model Form: 8/25/2017 Playground Inspection Page 1 Playground Inspection, LMC Model Form League staff thoughtfully develops models for a city’s consideration. Models should be customized as appropriate for an individual city’s circumstances in consultation with the city’s attorney. Helpful background information on this model may be found in the Information Memo “Park and Recreation Loss Control Guide”. PLAYGROUND INSPECTION PARK/FACILITY: _______ DATE: _______ INSPECTED BY: _______ TIME: _______ OK IF NOT OK, COMMENTS OR ACTION TO BE TAKEN PLAYGROUND SURFACE AREA 1. Footings exposed, cracked or loose in ground (__) 2. Poor drainage areas (__) 3. Inadequate safety surface material (__) 4.Safety surface depth sufficient (12”)(__) 5. Does safety surface comply with ADA (__) Yes (__) No (__) Don’t Know 6. Fall zones not per CPSC ((6’ perimeter all directions) (__) 7. Trip hazards, tree roots or rocks in play area (__) 8. Broken glass, trash or foreign objects in play area (__) 9. General condition/appearance of play area (__) Good (__) Fair (__) Poor PLAY STRUCTURES 1. Broken supports or anchors (__) 2. Pipe ends missing plugs or caps (__) 3. Broken or missing rails/rungs/steps (__) 4. Protruding bolt heads or threads (__) 5. Loose, missing, worn or rusted bolts, nuts, or other fasteners (__) 6. Broken clamps (__) 7.Peeling or chipped paint (__) 8.Entrapment, pinch or crush points (__) 9. Vinyl coated decks/platforms/steps have visible cracks or peeling (__) 10. Excessive wear of any component/slide/part (__) 11. Splintered/checking or warped wood (__) 12. General condition/appearance (__) Good (__) Fair (__) Poor SWINGS 1. Broken, twisted, worn, rusted chain (__) 2. Inadequate (non-commercial/ “4-0”) chain (__) 3. Worn, rusted or broken swing hangers (__) 4. Open worn or rusted “S” hooks (__) 5. Grommets show wear or rust (__) 6.Missing, worn or cracked swing seats (__) 7. Inadequate fall zone around swings (__) 8.Swing frame damaged (__) 9. Swing frame loose in footing (__) League of Minnesota Cities Model Form: 8/25/2017 Playground Inspection Page 2 10. Swing chain wrapped around top rail (__) 11. Safety surface worn or scattered (__) 12.Loose, missing or protruding bolts (__) 13. General condition/appearance (__) Good (__) Fair (__) Poor SLIDES 1.Slide bedways have any imperfections (__) 2. Handrails loose or missing (__) 3. Steps broken or missing, or flaws/cracks (__) 4.Sit-down transition platform present (__) 5.Safety rails or sit-down canopy at bedway entry present (__) 6. Slide exit parallel to ground (__) 7. Safety surface at slide exit worn away (__) 8. Fall Zone adequate on all sides (__) 9. General condition/appearance (__) Good (__) Fair (__) Poor TIRE SWING 1. Swing header too short (__) 2. Swing assembly exposed (boot missing) (__) 3.“S” hooks or chains defective (__) 4. Tire worn, cut or broken (__) 5. General condition/appearance (__) Good (__) Fair (__) Poor FREESTANDING CLIMBERS / MONKEY BARS 1.Not free-fall design (__) 2. Loose or broken rails or rungs (__) 3. Need painting (__) 4. Missing bolts or fasteners (__) 5. Adequate safety surface and fall zone (__) 6. General condition/appearance (__) Good (__) Fair (__) Poor WHIRLS / MERRY-GO-ROUND 1. Loose or missing fasteners (__) 2. Handrails secure (__) 3. Deck sections and center plate secure (__) 4. Underside of deck edge sharp (__) 5. Bearings worn/need replacing (__) 6.Whirl stable (__) 7. Rut around whirl (__) 8. General condition/appearance (__) Good (__) Fair (__) Poor SPRING RIDERS 1. Coil or “C” Spring loose (__) 2. Coil or “C” Spring broken (__) 3. Spring Rider Broken (__) 4. General condition/appearance?(__) Good (__) Fair (__) Poor SEE-SAW / TEETER-TOTTER 1.See-Saw board loose (__) 2.See-Saw board broken (__) League of Minnesota Cities Model Form: 8/25/2017 Playground Inspection Page 3 3.See-Saw seats or handles missing (__) 4. Adequate cushioning under seats area (__) 5. General condition/appearance (__) Good (__) Fair (__) Poor DATE: January 9, 2018 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Student Representative Update Background Parks and Recreation Commission student representatives Myles Bowen and Clair Dunham both have terms expiring January 31, 2018. With Myles Bowen at college, he will complete his term on January 31, 2018. Clair Dunham has graciously accepted to stay on the Parks and Recreation Commission through the end of the school year. At the last City Council meeting on January 2, 2018 City Council has given staff direction to contact local high schools for possible student representatives for the Parks and Recreation commission for a one-term position to start June 1, 2018. Each term would be a one year period. Requested Action Informational Only. Item 5e DATE: January 9, 2017 TO: Parks & Recreation Commission FROM: Ryan Ruzek, P.E., Public Works Director SUBJECT: Natural Resources Update – Purple Loosestrife, Valley Park, Cherokee Heights, Aquatic Invasive Species Staff has been working with other governmental agencies on erosion repair and invasive species control. Over the next couple years there will be several projects implanted in the city. Purple Loosestrife Purple Loosestrife is a plant from Asia that has been taking over wetlands and do not provide food, cover or nesting sites for wetland animals including ducks, geese, muskrats, frogs, and turtles. A method of controlling purple loosestrife can be accomplished through biological controls using beetles and weevils. The Minnesota DNR has successfully used this treatment in other areas of the state. To begin this treatment process, insects would need to be collected from a breeding site and introduced to the infested area. A local resident, Leslie Pilgrim, has volunteered to collect the insects and release them to the wetland north of City Hall (large infestation). The treatment would take several years with the hope that the insects are able to thrive and expand to other wetlands. Valley Park Staff has been working with Great River Greening and Xcel energy on revegetating the power line corridor that runs through Valley Park. The project would replace all the vegetation with a more pollinator friendly mix and provide better habitat. Great River Greening applied for a grant on behalf of the city and was notified that we have been awarded $27,000 for this project. Mendota Heights will be required to provide a $7,500 match over 3 years ($2,500/year). Xcel Energy will be providing an in kind match with labor and Great River Greening will also be coordinating large volunteer events. It is expected to take between 2 and 3 years to complete the project and the City will be required to maintain the area for a period of ten years. Cherokee Heights Mendota Heights entered a Joint Powers Agreement with the Cities of St. Paul and West. St. Paul for the stabilization of the Cherokee Heights Ravine. Storm Water runoff from the 3 cities has caused erosion of the bluff down to the Mississippi River. The project has just been notified Item 6a that it was selected to receive $700,000 in clean water funds from the State of Minnesota, the largest such grant ever distributed through the program. Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Dakota County has extended the grant submittal deadline for aquatic invasive species management. The grant program is designed to be used for enforcement of AIS Laws, Watercraft inspectors, education and outreach, management of AIS, early detection of AIS (surveys). If the commission is interested in pursuing this as an opportunity please direct staff to which item may be of interest. ACTION REQUIRED None – for informational purposes only although comments are welcomed. Dakota County Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program Eligible Recipients •Local Government Units (Cities, Townships, school districts, WMOs) •Lake Associations Examples of Projects •Education and Outreach •Early Detection and Population Assessment •Management of New or Established AIS Populations •Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination •Law Enforcement Application Timeline Applications are due February 9th, 2018 Funding Potential Proposals may receive full or partial funding based on number of funding requests and application ranking Matching Funds Matching funds are preferred, but not required Project Timeline Project activities must be completed by December 1st, 2018 Reporting Requirements •Each project must enter into a formal project contract/agreement with the County addressing conditions of the award •A report summarizing work completed with invoices for grant reimbursement is due December 15th, 2018 Dakota County has developed a grant program with funds available to help local units of government and organizations implement projects that help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) Contact Dakota County Visit www.co.dakota.mn.us/Environment/WaterQuality/AIS Michael Behan, AIS program lead - (952) 891-7539 michael.behan@co.dakota.mn.us Photo credit: US Department of Agriculture DATE: January 9, 2018 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Par 3 Update Background Financial Update. At the last meeting Parks and Recreation Commissioners had asked for information regarding the Par 3’s 2016 financials compared to 2017 financials. As stated at the last meeting totals for the year 2017 will be available in late February or early March when all bills have been paid and all Groupon revenue has been accounted for. The 2017 financials through November 2017 are provided for comparison. Accounting System Update. In the last two months staff has been contacting golf accounting software companies to demo products and get pricing for a new accounting system for the golf course. Staff has found one they are interested and are doing a second demo to see if it will adequately meet the needs of the Par 3 golf course. Staff will keep the Parks and Recreation Commission updated when a decision is made. Requested Action Informational Only. Item 6b DATE: January 9, 2018 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Recreation Programs Update Background Ice Rink Usage. Warming house attendants have been keeping track of the number of skaters using the rinks and the weather during that period of time. Below is the information through January 4th for this season so far. Wentworth Park Number of Users Avg. Temp (f) Friendly Hills Park Number of Users Avg. Temp(f) Marie Park Number of Users Avg Temp(f) 12/22/2017 60 23.5 12/22/2017 99 22.6 12/22/2017 41 21.3 12/23/2017 57 17.9 12/23/2017 66 18.5 12/23/2017 52 19.1 12/24/2017 34 20.5 12/24/2017 13 19.75 12/24/2017 21 20 12/27/2017 38 2.5 12/27/2017 26 2.8 12/27/2017 22 3.2 12/28/2017 35 8.7 12/28/2017 16 9.4 12/28/2017 59 9.9 12/29/2017 7 1.83 12/29/2017 13 0.8 12/29/2017 22 2.3 1/1/2018 23 0.3 1/1/2018 5 0.5 1/1/2018 34 0.16 1/2/2018 14 11 1/2/2018 6 8.2 1/2/2018 33 12 1/3/2018 8 1.2 1/3/2018 16 1.8 1/3/2018 0 2.4 1/4/2018 13 1 1/4/2018 5 0.2 1/4/2018 21 1.2 Total: 289 8.843 Total: 265 8.455 Total: 305 9.156 Current Rink Hours are: •Weekdays: 4:00-9:00pm •Saturdays: 10:00am-9:00pm •Sundays: 12:00pm-6:00pm •Non-School Days: 12:00pm-9:00pm Friendly Hills Warming House. The Friendly Hills Park warming house and rink light project was completed prior to the start of the winter ice skating season. In addition to the new clean look, Item 6c the energy costs for gas and electricity should be reduced at this site. The building is adequately insulated and all lights are LED. Skating Lessons. Youth skating lessons began on Saturday, January 6th at Friendly Hills Park. The city offers 5 different classes with 27 participants this year. The program will run every Saturday through February 3. Field Trips. On Wednesday, December 27th staff took children bowling at Drkula’s Bowl in Inver Grove Heights. In the afternoon children attended the movie Ferdinand at the AMC Theater. The City of Mendota Heights had 27 participants. On Thursday, December 28th staff took children snow tubing at Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls. We spent the day sliding down the chutes and warming up near the bonfire. The City of Mendota Heights had 15 participants. Royal Ball. On Sunday, February 11th the City of Mendota Heights in collaboration with the cities of West Saint Paul and South Saint Paul will be hosting the 3rd Annual Royal Ball. The event will include crafts, games, meet and greets with real princesses and princes, DJ, refreshments, and lots of dancing. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite prince or princess costume. The event is at the Concord Exchange building from 3:00-5:00pm. Roger’s Lake Skateboard Park. Staff is meeting with 3rd Lair on Monday, January 8th to discuss the Roger’s Lake Skateboard Park. An update will be given to the commission at the January 9th meeting. Requested Action Informational Only. DATE: January 9, 2018 TO: Cheryl Jacobson, Assist. City Administrator Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Coordinator CC: Chair Pat Hinderscheid and Parks & Recreation Commissioners FROM: Tim Benetti, Community Development Director SUBJECT: Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Please find attached for your review and additional consideration the updated materials for the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update, provided by city planning consultant Phil Carlson of Stantec. As you may recall, Mr. Carlson and city staff attended the previous Parks and Recreation Commission meeting of November 14, 2017, and engaged in an open dialogue with the commissioners to discuss the proposed “Parks and Open Space” goals and polices of the plan. Mr. Carlson indicated that he would provide a written update of the goals/policies that were discussed or formulated that evening, and present them back to the Parks Commission at a later date. At the Tuesday, January 2, 2018 meeting of the City Council, Mr. Carlson provided a separate update to the council, which included certain city demographic and related statistical information; a summary of the community engagement workshops/open-houses; community survey results (and public comments); issues and opportunities; new mappings; and new goals and policies related to the respective elements of the plan, which include Land Use, Housing, Transportation, Infrastructure, Economic Development and Parks and Open Spaces. Due to time constraints and contract obligations, Mr. Carlson does not have any future meetings with the Parks Commission on the Project Schedule; but he does intend to provide periodic updates to the Planning Commission within the next six months, which the parks commissioners are most welcome to attend. An official public hearing on the Final Draft Plan Update is tentatively scheduled before the Planning Commission around June or July 2018. At this time, planning staff requests the Parks Commission review and consider these new and updated materials, and provide any feedback and/or comments back to city staff commission liaisons Cheryl Jacobson or Meredith Lawrence, whereby they can forward them on to Mr. Carlson or myself for further consideration. If you wish to contact Phil Carlson (at Stantec) directly, please call (651) 967-4555 or email: Phil.Carlson@stantec.com – or contact Tim Benetti at (651) 255-1142 or timb@mendota-heights.com. I will also make myself available to meet with the Parks & Rec Commission at next Tuesday night meeting or the following month of February if requested. Thank you for your time and kind consideration of this information and related materials! Item 6d Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 1 of 11 LAND USE GOAL 1: THE LAND USE PLAN WILL SERVE AS THE FOUND ATION FOR LAND USE DECISIONS IN MENDOTA HEIGHTS. POLICIES • Develop in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan for land use, housing, transportation, parks and other community facilities. • Review and amend the Comprehensive Plan as necessary to ensure consistent development policy in current and future development decisions. • Zoning and rezoning decisions shall conform to the Land Use Plan. • The Land Use Plan will be updated to reflect changing priorities and conditions or as required by the Metropolitan Land Planning Act. • Balance land use designations to meet projected growth demand. GOAL 2. PRESERVE, PROTECT AND ENRICH THE MATURE, FULLY DEVELOPED RESIDENTIAL ENVIRONMENT AND CHARACTER OF THE COMMUNITY. POLICIES • Subdivision and zoning standards will emphasize high quality site and architectural design. • Emphasize quality design, innovative solutions, and a high general aesthetic level in community development and building. • Parks, trails and open spaces will be planned within walking distance of all residential areas. • Encourage development and planning of land that provides for reasonable access to surrounding properties. • Public buildings and properties will be designed, constructed and maintained to be a source of civic pride and to set a standard for private property owners to follow. • Historic preservation will be considered in land use decisions. GOAL 3: SUPPORT INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN DESIGNATED AREAS. POLICIES • The City will use available resources to meet redevelopment needs. This will include cooperation with the Dakota County and the Metropolitan Council to achieve redevelopment objectives. • Encourage appropriate transitions and buffering between potentially incompatible land uses. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 2 of 11 GOAL 4. ENHANCE AND PROTECT THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT. POLICIES • Provide for maintenance and further natural restoration of ecological systems including lakes, ponding areas, aquifers, and drainage areas • Encourage energy efficient design in all public and private construction. • Take in to account impacts on air quality in land use and infrastructure decisions. • Follow best practices in land use and infrastructure decisions that impact stormwater runoff. GOAL 5. REDUCE THE IMPACT OF AIRCRAFT NOISE WITHIN THE COMMUNITY. POLICIES • Increase public participation and representation through the Noise Oversight Committee (NOC) and the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC). • Achieve noise reduction through advocating modified takeoff proc edures and corridor compliance. • Advocate an equitable distribution of aircraft traffic and a more equitable runway use system. • Monitor the continued implementation of the Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP) airport Comprehensive Plan. • Advocate for specific noise control measures through operational changes and advance technology. • Establish a physical capacity for the Mendota Heights/Eagan corridor and transfer general aviation use to other reliever airports. • Notify and work with MnDOT in the event that potential airspace obstructions are encountered. • Consider aircraft noise and safety issues in all land use and zoning decisions. GOAL 6: PROTECT REASONABLE ACCESS TO DIRECT SUNLIGHT FOR SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS. POLICIES • Consider modification of existing ordinances to protect access of direct sunlight to rooftops of all principal structures. • Encourage developers to establish covenants that do not restrict the development and use of active and/or passive solar energy systems. • Encourage buildings and developers to offer solar energy system options, to the extent practical, for space heating and cooling and hot water heating in new residential, commercial and industrial developments. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 3 of 11 HOUSING GOAL 1: PRESERVE AND IMPROVE EXISTING NEIGHBORHOODS AND HOUSING UNITS. POLICIES • Continue to enforce housing maintenance and zoning codes. • Explore options for flexibility in Zoning Code standards to encourage and allow expansion and reinvestment in existing houses. • Partner with Dakota County, Metropolitan Council, the State of Minnesota and other agencies that provide housing rehabilitation programs and services. • Protect public safety by requiring owners to repair substandard housing or as a last resort, abate and demolish dangerous housing. • Develop a housing maintenance program that promotes and requires safe homes and attractive neighborhoods. GOAL 2: MEET FUTURE NEEDS WITH A VARIETY OF HOUSING PRODUCTS. POLICIES • Encourage life-cycle housing opportunities in Mendota Heights that allow residents to remain in the community throughout their lives. This includes: o Maintenance of existing entry level housing. o Construction of move-up single family housing. o Construction of various types of senior housing, including senior ownership units, senior rental units, memory care and assisted living units. o Providing a mix of affordable housing opportunities for all income levels, age groups , and special housing needs. • Encourage environmentally sustainable housing development and construction practices. • Provide for housing development that maintains the attractiveness and distinct neighborhood characteristics in the community. • Support the maintenance and rehabilitation of the community’s existing housing stock. • Periodically assess the housing needs in the community, including the elderly, disabled, active retirees, and other groups with special housing needs to determine development priorities and to formulate strategies to meet those needs and maintain an adequate and quality housing supply. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 4 of 11 PARKS & OPEN SPACE GOAL 1: PROVIDE A PARK SYSTEM THAT IS SAFE, ACCESSIBLE, AND EQUITABLE IN ITS OFFERINGS TO ALL MENDOTA HEIGHTS RESIDENTS AND VISITORS. POLICIES • Create and maintain a park system that provides the optimum amount of active and passive open space for the enjoyment of all Mendota Heights residents. • Provide facilities and programs that allow people of varying abilities to participate. • Build, maintain and retrofit park facilities and equipment to be safe for all users. • Plan and build safe connections for pedestrians and bicyclists within and between park facilities and major destinations in the community. • Strive to make all facilities and programs open and welcoming to people of all ages and diverse backgrounds. GOAL 2: PROVIDE A PARK SYSTEM THAT ASSURES HIGH QUALITY FACILITIES, BUILDINGS, GROUNDS, TRAILS, AMENITIES, AND NATURAL SETTINGS. POLICIES • Keep the park system up-to-date in terms of facilities, activities and programs that are responsive to the community’s needs and wishes. • Staff the park system adequately for the facilities, activities and programs offered. • Provide bicycle amenities in parks and along trails, including bike racks and repair stations. • Provide a sustainable funding stream and operate the park system in a fiscally sound manner , including taking advantage of available grants. GOAL 3: USE THE PARK SYSTEM AS A MEANS TO ENHANCE AND SUSTAIN THE ENVIRONMENT OF EACH NEIGHBORHOOD AND THE CITY AS A WHOLE. POLICIES • Provide facilities, programs and opportunities in the park system that bring people together and create community. • Protect and enhance the environment by promoting native species and pollinator friendly plantings, preventing and removing invasive species, and reducing salt on roads and sidewalks. • Protect and enhance native wildlife by c onsidering their needs and habits in our stewardship of park property and facilities. • Ensure that stormwater is managed in park facilities in a manner that protects and preserves water quality and the ecology of the watershed. • Strive to make all park facilities, equipment and construction projects and materials environmentally friendly and sustainable. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 5 of 11 GOAL 4: COOPERATE WITH DAKOT A COUNTY AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES IN PARK AND RECREATION FACILITIES AND PROGRAMS POLICIES • Support the Dakota County 2030 Greenway Corridors Plan/Vision. • Continue to cooperate with South St. Paul, West. St. Paul and other neighboring communities on park and recreation programs and facilities. • Encourage the preservation of open space by private property owners and the City. • Explore new opportunities and continue to work cooperatively with School District #197, St. Thomas, Visitation, Fort Snelling State Park, and other entities to provide maximum recreational opportunities and avoid duplication. • Improve and expand safe bicycle and pedestrian connections to City parks and other community destinations. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 6 of 11 TRANSPORTATION GOAL 1: PROVIDE A SAFE, HIGH-QUALITY, AND COST EFFECTIVE MULTI-MODAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM POLICIES • Transportation improvements will be coordinated with the plans of MnDOT, Dakota County, Metropolitan Council, and adjoining communities. • The City will support regional improvements to major transportation facilities serving the city when feasible. • New construction techniques, technologies, and environmental sustainability will be considered in planning new transportation facilities. • A network of sidewalks and trails will be constructed in all new developments and redevelopments, where practical and feasible. • Developers will be required to provide the transportation facilities within and adjacent to new subdivisions, including rights-of-way, roadways, and bicycle and pedestrian facilities necessary to support their development. • Existing transportation facilities will be maintained so as to preserve or improve service levels and minimize life-cycle costs. This includes an ongoing pavement management program for city streets. • Where practical and feasible, planning for roadway improvements will include landscapi ng, street lighting, and other aesthetic improvements. GOAL 2: EXPAND TRANSIT OPTIONS SERVING MENDOTA HEIGHTS POLICIES • The City will continue to support and participate in efforts to implement improved transit service in the City. • The City will seek county, regional, state or federal funding to expand transit services in and around the city. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 7 of 11 WATER SUPPLY [City staff to provide] SANITARY SEWER GOAL 1: EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THE CITY’S SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM. POLICIES • Mendota Heights will construct its system to facilitate operation and maintenance and prevent inflow and infiltration. • Mendota Heights will maintain a detailed inventory of its sanitary sewer system including an up- to-date electronic map including location and specifications of all pipes, structures, and lift stations. • Mendota Heights will clean a portion of its sanitary sewer system every year. • Mendota Heights will regularly televise and clean its sanitary sewer system to determine whether it is performing adequately. • During major street reconstruction projects, Mendota Heights will assess the system within the project area and makes improvements as needed. • Mendota Heights is committed to training those responsible for managing its sanitary sewer system and ensures that staff has the equipment necessary to properly m aintain the system. • Mendota Heights will maintain an organizational chart of its sewer maintenance department and ensure that each staff member has a job description. • Mendota Heights will rehabilitate sewers before their deterioration negatively affects residents, businesses, or the Metropolitan Disposal System. • Mendota Heights will maintain a general emergency response plan that pertains to sanitary sewer overflows. • The City will coordinate sanitary sewer utility services and development with surrounding communities, Washington County, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and the Metropolitan Council. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 8 of 11 GOAL 2: TO PROVIDE SANITARY SEWER SERVICE THAT IS ADEQUATE TO MEET CURRENT AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT NEEDS. POLICIES • The extension of sanitary sewers shall be programmed so as to achieve maximum benefit from the existing utilities. • The sanitary sewer system shall be constructed to accommodate the proposed land use densities and uses identified in the future land use plan. • Mendota Heights will provide a system reserve capacity in all trunk designs so that local occurrences of higher sewage generating uses or higher densities can be accommodated. • When in-fill development or redevelopment occurs, Mendota Heights will evaluate existing sanitary sewer systems as to their capacity. • Mendota Heights develops and regularly updates its sanitary sewer system Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). • The City will encourage development densities that maximize the use of the existing sa nitary system. Where existing facilities do not have capacities to accommodate the maximum allowable densities, the City reserves the right to restrict development to average density. • For properties not connected the sanitary sewer system, subsurface sewage treatment systems (SSTS) shall be allowed provided such systems conform to all local, county, state and federal requirements. • When feasible, maintain sanitary sewer depth to provide maximum flexibility related to future development. • When installing new sanitary sewer adjacent to properties on private well and septic, sanitary sewer services will be installed to allow for cost effective connection it the future. GOAL 3: MENDOTA HEIGHTS PROVIDES A COST EFFECTIVE SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM THAT IS EQUITABLY FINANCED. POLICIES • Mendota Heights finances new sanitary sewer trunks for new development through area and connection charges. • Mendota Heights finances its existing system operation and maintenance through utility billings. • Mendota Heights prepares for replacement of its sanitary sewer system by incorporating replacement costs into its utility billing rates. • The extension of sanitary sewers shall be programmed so as to achieve maximum benefit from the existing utilities. This staging program will result in the most efficient expenditure of public funds while maintaining the City’s growth pattern. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 9 of 11 SURFACE WATER GOAL 1: MANAGE SURFACE AND GROUNDWATER RESOURCES USING APPROACHES THAT MEET OR EXCEED REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS BY FOLLOWING THE CITY’S LOCAL SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN, THE LOCAL WATERSHED PLANS, AND PERMITS ADMINISTERED BY THE MPCA, BWSR, USACE, MNDNR, AND ANY OTHER GOVERNING AGENCIES THAT ARE APPLICABLE AND HAVE JURISDICTION AUTHORITY WITHIN THE CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS. POLICIES •Provide adequate flood protection for residents and structures and protect the integrity of conveyance channels and stormwater detention areas. •Pursue the reduction of Total Phosphorus (TP) and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) loading to water bodies by compliance, municipal management activities, and public education. •Classify and effectively manage water bodies in the community to achieve watershed management organization, state, and federal regulatory agency standards. •Classify, manage, and administer wetlands in the community. •Regulate new development and redevelopment activities within the community including erosion control at construction sites. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 10 of 11 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GOAL 1: PROMOTE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN MENDOTA HEIGHTS THROUGH A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO BUSINESS NEEDS. POLICIES •Manage growth and land resources to ensure an appropriate mix of development and an adequate land supply to secure new business investments. •Retain the present industrial and commercial base and assist companies with their expansion needs where appropriate. •Attract quality businesses consistent with the City’s target market to areas available for development. •Encourage an adequate supply of sites and buildings to meet the demand for commercial and industrial development. •Maintain an infrastructure system to meet the needs of current businesses and facilitate future growth. •Address unique development challenges including the reuse and redevelopment of vacant buildings. •Foster private investment and economic activity without compromising community objectives to maintain and enhance Mendota Heights’s environment. GOAL 2: PROMOTE BUSINESS ATTRACTION, RETENTION, AND EXPANSION IN MENDOTA HEIGHTS. POLICIES •Identify target markets and prepare and implement a marketing plan to attract businesses that fit this market. •Work with local businesses and industry to ensure needs for expansion and development are adequately met and maintain an open line of communication with the business sector through the Business Retention and Expansion Program. •Continue to actively market Mendota Heights to commercial brokers and retail businesses to expand retail opportunities in the City. •Work cooperatively with local business groups, the school district, and area colleges and universities to provide training for workers with the skills needed for existing and future Mendota Heights businesses. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Goals & Policies December 22, 2017 Page 11 of 11 GOAL 3: PROMOTE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH PUBLIC FINANCING TOOLS. POLICIES • Periodically review economic development opportunities, such as incentive programs from the county, regional and state. • Review new and innovative economic development incentives for application in Mendota Heights. • Pursue outside funding sources to develop or redevelop land for commercial and industrial uses, such as Metropolitan Council Livable Communities Demonstration Account and Tax Base Revitalization Account, Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA), Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, and other applicable grants. GOAL 4: CONTINUE TO DEVELOP COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL AREAS THAT SERVE THE WHOLE COMMUNITY. POLICIES • Provide and support commercial areas to supply convenience goods and services for residents of Mendota Heights. • To mitigate conflicts between commercial and residential development, r equire appropriate land use transitions at the edges of residential neighborhoods through the use of setbacks, screening, buffering and fencing. • Require sidewalk connections along major streets leading up to neighborhood commercial centers and direct connections from the public sidewalk to the storefronts. GOAL 5: CONTINUE TO DEVELOP BUSINESS PARK AREAS THAT PROVIDE JOBS AND SERVE THE LOCAL AND REGIONAL ECONOMY. POLICIES • Provide opportunities for new industrial development and expanded employment opportunities to create livable-wage positions in Mendota Heights and the redevelopment of existing industrial uses to serve existing businesses in the community. • Provide attractive, planned environments as means to induce employers to locate within the City. • Continue to provide and enforce standards for industrial developments that improve the appearance and character of industrial properties. • Provide high quality public services and infrastructure in all commercial and industrial districts.