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2018-04-10 Parks and Rec Comm MinutesCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS, DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING April 10, 2018 The April meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, April 10, 2018, 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 Ira Kipp, Bob Klepperich, Stephanie Levine, David Miller, and Nissa Tupper. Staff present: Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence, Assistant City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson, Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek, and City Administrator Mark McNeill. Commissioner Steve Goldade arrived at 7:07pm. 3. Approval of Agenda The agenda was approved as presented. 4. Approval of Minutes Motion Miller/second Levine to approve the minutes of the February 13, 2018 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting. AYES 6: NAYS 0: ABSENT 1 Motion Klepperich/second Tupper to approve the minutes of the March 1, 2018 Parks and Recreation Commission Work Session meeting AYES 6: NAYS 0: ABSENT 1 5. Unfinished and New Business 5.a Presentation by Cassandra Schueller, Recycling Coordinator Ms. Cassandra Schueller, Recycling Coordinator for the City of Mendota Heights shared the new recycling initiatives for the city’s parks and throughout the community. Ms. Schueller also serves West St. Paul, South St. Paul, and Sunfish Lake. Events that occurred this last year included:  Waste sort with the help of the County, involving two days of trash and recycling produced at City Hall o 64% was compostable products o Advised to add organics collection at City Hall with the potential to divert 97% of waste away from the landfill o Replaced normal flatware and plates with BPI certified compostable products  Par 3 o Added trash caddies to the recycling caddies locations o Internal containers at the club house were labeled o Dumpsters moved to one location o Updated the close-down procedures to ensure recycling was adhered to  Inventoried all of the parks over the summer and fall o Took note of where the recycling and trash containers were and where missing  Mendota Heights was found to have pretty much the perfect amount o Goal is to have one-to-one ratio of trash to recycling containers  Ms. Schueller won a national grant through Keep America Beautiful for Mendota Heights o Will be receiving receptacles within the next month to complete the one-to-one ratio in the parks  Village Market also received two recycling containers  Set up a recycling tour and the Mayor and his wife joined o Republic Services in Inver Grove Heights  Trying to get Mendota Heights to be a Green Steps City o Already doing 12 activities and not getting credit for it o Need City Council approval o If approved she hopes to be appointed the coordinator Upcoming Events:  Saturday, April 21, 2018 Paper Shred Event at the West St. Paul Sports Complex from 9:00 a.m. to Noon  Saturday, April 21, 2018 Shoe & Clothing Recycling Event; unmanned; for 9 full days; metal drop box in the City Hall parking lot In regards to the recycling bins being added to the trash bin locations, Chair Hinderscheid asked for confirmation that this did not add any expense to the city in terms of trash pick-ups. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek confirmed. Commissioner Levine asked if there were any potential plans to have pick-up organics, like is done at St. Louis Park. Ms. Schueller replied that currently there are no haulers in the county who are willing to pick up organics. The only other option is to bring the organics to the drop sites, one of which is in West St. Paul and another in Eagan. Commissioner Miller asked if the recycling places recycle most, if not all, clear plastics. Ms. Schueller replied that yes, they do. They are mandated to only produce 15% residuals. One of the things to keep in mind is that everything that is recycled is downgraded; meaning that a plastic water bottle does not get recycled into a plastic water bottle. It is downgraded into a polyester shirt, carpeting, etc. Some scientific studies have been done about leaching so she recommended not microwaving anything in plastic. Commissioner Tupper noted that she and her family signed up at the organic drop off and that it is super easy to do. They keep a bin in the garage and one under the kitchen sink. They drop it off once a week and their trash has gone down significantly. They never fill their trash can. She then asked if the county or the cities she works with have plans to create more drop off sites. Ms. Schueller replied that she has made her stance perfectly clear with the county that the city is ready for its own site. Due diligence needs to be completed before this could move forward. 5.b Presentation by John Masica, Mendota Heights Athletic Association Mr. John Masica, Executive Director of the Mendota Heights Athletic Association (MHAA) opened a discussion on adding a temporary fence for youth baseball at Valley Park. He introduced Mr. Scott Karlen, MHAA Baseball Commissioner. They noted that the temporary fence was at Marie Park last year and they would like to move that to Valley Park. The nine-year old baseball team played at Marie Park; there were some traffic issues and issues with the fence being near the playground. They looked at other field options for these players and determined that Valley Park would seem to fit. The fence would be installed from May 1 to July 15. It would be located five feet from the edge of the swamp, leaving enough room to walk around the back if a ball went over. Chair Hinderscheid noted that the only negative he heard about the fence at Marie Park was that it disrupted the open area and asked if that would not be much of an issue at Valley Park. Mr. Masica replied that behind the location of the fence at Marie Park was a field and a park, which limited a little bit of kid access – they jumped over and broke some of the posts. The new location would be up against the swamp and tree line and would not interfere with anyone walking or anything like that. Commissioner Klepperich stated that he probably would need an OK from Mr. Ruzek to pound stakes into the ground, as they would need to call Gopher-1. He also expressed his hope that they would maintain the fence to put it back up if, for some reason, it got down. Mr. Ruzek added that he was not sure if he would have public staff available to install the fencing (it was installed by MHAA last year). Mr. Ruzek explained that the request was to get a recommendation from the Parks and Recreation Commission and then staff would take that recommendation to the City Council for final approval. In the interim he would check with Public Works on their availability and willingness to take on this project. The biggest concern is that there are some neighbors that keep a close eye on the park; thus the need for Council approval. Mr. Ruzek requested that the installation of the fence not occur prior to April 28th as there is a large event on that field that day. He was unaware of any other events or reservations in that park the remainder of the season. Motion Levine/second Miller to recommend approval of MHAA being permitted to install a temporary fence at Valley Park no earlier than May 1, 2018 AYES 6: NAYS 0: ABSENT 1 5.c Commissioner’s Park Assignments Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence explained that at the March 1, 2018 workshop the Commission decided that they would do park assignments again. In the past, Commissioners were assigned parks to visit and report any problems to the Recreation Program Coordinator. Examples of what to look for included conditions of trails, playground equipment, ball fields, tennis courts, and basketball courts. A monthly visit is expected. The assignments were determined as follows: Victoria Highlands – David Miller Roger’s Lake – Ira Kipp Valley View Heights – Ira Kipp Ivy Hills – Pat Hinderscheid Dog Park – Pat Hinderscheid Marie Park – Stephanie Levine Valley Park – Nissa Tupper Wentworth – Steve Goldade Friendly Hills – Nissa Tupper Hagstrom-King – Steve Goldade Kensington South – Stephanie Levine Mendakota – Bob Klepperich (he would also keep an eye on the baseball fields at Civic Center) Market Square (added) – David Miller Upon question, it was found that Market Square is a city park; however, it is maintained by the RMF Group. The city does schedule events at Market Square. A question was raised about whether one of the park names was Valley Park or Valley View Heights Park. 5.d Annual Report Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence noted that the Commission was provided with the 2017 Parks and Recreation Annual Report outlining the recreational programs and parks in Mendota Heights. Commissioner Tupper commented that this was a really fun way to communicate what happened in the parks and asked if this had been done in the past. Ms. Lawrence replied that one has been done every year. Commissioner Tupper suggested that this would be a good source of snippet information to share on social media and in the Friday news. 5.e Projects Proposal List At this point, Commissioner Steve Goldade joined the meeting at 7:07pm. Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence stated that at the March 1, 2018 Workshop Meeting the Commission reviewed the Capital Improvement Plan Proposals that staff had prepared from ideas and suggestions that the Commission had throughout the last year. She also noted that this would be discussed again at the May 9, 2018 meeting but wanted to add this to the information packet for those who were not at the workshop. Chair Hinderscheid stated that he had handed out, just for reference, a list showing the updates and when they were last done and prioritized them from oldest to most recent. For instance, his list showed that Hagstrom-King had their playground equipment last updated in 2003. This may be an area where they might want to start. He also mentioned that there are a number of different things that were brought up; however, in speaking to some of the Parks and Recreation people from other cities one of the features in their parks that they have indicated is very popular are zip-lines. He did some research and found out that a zip-line comes in three different sizes; 34 feet, 50 feet, and 66 feet. A 50-foot zip-line would run approximately $12,000 and to have it installed would be approximately $1,800. One thing other cities have done is install a dual zip-line; one to accommodate handicapped children but could be used by other children with another zip-line next to it so they could be used side-by-side. He requested a recommendation from the Commission to move forward with a zip-line and work with staff to determine the proper location. Commissioner Miller suggested that the Commission compare the current proposal list what had been prioritized in the past to see what was finished and what had been undone to see what, if anything, would match up. It was also noted that a hotel is going up at Pilot Knob and I-494 that would be within the city limits of Mendota Heights and the question was raised to whether or not this project would contribute to the park funds. City Administrator Mark McNeill replied that it does but he would have to find out just how much. He also noted that the funding and prioritization of the proposal list would be discussed at the May 9, 2018 meeting. The list has many things that would be very worthwhile; however, there is only funding for approximately one-fourth of them. Additional items could be added but only at the expense of other projects. It was asked if there was anything on the previous list that has been recommended for approval this year that would need to have bids started on it so that it gets done this year. Ms. Lawrence replied that there is one item that would be discussed later in her recreation update. The Skateboard Park was an item that was going to be discussed in March; unfortunately, they did not have a quorum for the March meeting and it had been cancelled. It was brought to the Council because with the weather turning soon (hopefully) there was a concern that without making the repairs to the skate park they would have to lock it up. This item was approved by Council and staff is moving forward with making the changes at Rogers Lake. Upon request, she then provided a list of what those $10,000 changes are. Ms. Lawrence indicated that she would add the zip-line suggestion to the list to be discussed and prioritized at the May 9th meeting with Council; however, if the Commission would rather make a motion now on that item they would be welcome to do so. Chair Hinderscheid deferred the zip-line discussion to the May 9th meeting. He also noted that he had spoken with the Park and Recreation Director at Lakeville and one of the things brought up was the park they installed that cost $350,000. Out of that money, $276,000 was gained through donations. They made up a brochure showing what the project was and then they went and knocked on doors. This struck him as an area where Mendota Heights could explore and possibly do better. A question was raised about whether the zip-line cost included some kind of padding on the ground in case a child fell off. Chair Hinderscheid replied that there would have to be some type of excavation to put in the proper type of wood chips, etc. Other questions would need to be entertained and research done. Ms. Lawrence stated that before the May 9th meeting she would do some research and talk to her contact at the League of Minnesota Cities on the liability of installing a zip-line. Chair Hinderscheid mentioned that Sibley High School has three tennis courts that may be slated for demolition; however, it could be an option to use those courts for Pickleball. He plans to attend the referendum meeting to see if he can get some traction on that. Commissioner Levine, being on the school board, indicated that the courts in question are in pretty rough shape and are not safe to play tennis on anymore. They may be able to be repurposed but that could be answered at the open house. 6. Reports 6.a Par 3 Update Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence stated that the projected open date for the Par 3 Golf Course was still unknown due to the weather. They had planned to open April 1; once the weather turns they will open the course. Staff training is currently taking place with the hope to be open April 23, 2018. The 2017 financial information for the golf course will be available at the joint meeting with the City Council on May 9. She also explained that the Thompson Oaks Golf Course in West St. Paul has closed and the Par 3 staff has worked with them to capitalize on the opportunities for the golf course. A number of West St. Paul players are joining the Mendota Heights leagues, new leagues are being brought to the course, staff will be purchasing equipment from their course, the Par 3 will now schedule tee times for interested customers, and Thompson Oaks staff has joined the Par 3 customer service team. 6.b Recreation Program Update Working from information provided to the Commission prior to the meeting, Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence shared that registration for the summer programs opened on March 1, 2018 and shared the list of the programs offered and the number of participants currently registered for each one. The numbers have increased since she put the list together by approximately 150 participants. She then shared information on the Fee Assistance Program that was passed on March 6, 2018 by the City Council and the details of that program; the off-leash dog park will remain as a temporary use until that expires in 2020, at which time the Council will revisit; due to the RFM group not co-sponsoring the Mendota Heights Summer Concert Series, staff is proposing a monthly event in place of the previous weekly event for the summer of 2018, which includes a talent show, three concerns, and a movie in the park; she reviewed the approved repairs at the Roger’s Lake Skate Park; the Parks Celebration set for the first weekend of June; that the Commission is now accepting applications for a student representative; plans to conduct a survey of residents regarding capital improvement plan interests; and she shared the number of skaters at the three Mendota Heights ice rinks during the 2017-2018 warming season. 6.c Natural Resources Update Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek provided the Natural Resources Update, which included Wood Duck Houses, Rain Gardens, GreenSteps, Recycling Event, the Parks Budget, the Natural Resources Plan, and Upcoming Events. Upcoming Events  April 21st – Country Day School clean up event at Valley Park (Trash Collection)  April 21st – Fix It Clinic in Farmington  April 21st – Shred Event at West St. Paul Sports Complex  April 21st – 29th – Shoe and Clothing Recycling Drop Off – City Hall  April 28th – Improving Water Quality in Valley Park with MPR  May 5th – Milkweed Podcast and other Pollinator Attractions – Pilot Knob Preservation (registration required)  May 5th – Mendota Heights Clean Up Day – Mendakota Park 6.d Comprehensive Plan Update The draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan, in terms of the Parks and Trails, was shared with the Commissioners. If the Commission has edits, suggestions or ideas, they can contact Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence who will share that information for consideration and possible incorporation into the plan. Items included in the draft plan were Goals and Policies; Historical Development; Existing City Park Facilities and Types; State, Regional, and Private Parks and Open Spaces; Trail Facilities; Future Park and Trail Needs; and maps of the Park and Trails and of the Bicycle Facilities and Plan. 7. Announcements and Commission Comments Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence shared that seasonal positions are posted on-line at Mendota-Heights.com for tennis positions, golf maintenance, golf instructor, and recreation assistants for the summer playgrounds and camps. Also the student representative position has been posted and will close at the end of April. City Administrator Mark McNeill shared that the joint meeting with the Council is scheduled for May 9, 2018 and staff has worked on the agenda, which is very full. On the Parks portion they want to talk about finances, capital improvements list, park and trail updates, and a deep dive into the Par 3. A presentation by an engineering company on the Natural Resources Plan (which is woefully outdated) will take place. Other topics include EAB and the GreenSteps Cities Program and staffing on that. Due to this very full agenda Mr. McNeill asked if the Commission would be open to entertaining a second joint meeting later in May. Another suggestion was to cancel the regular Parks & Recreation Commission meeting at 6:30 p.m. and have the joint meeting be extended into that time. The work session would be an open public meeting; however, it would not be televised. It was determined to hold a second joint work session with the City Council and have the Natural Resources discussion at that time. Mr. McNeill will pose that to the Council for their determination and it would be communicated to the public. Commissioner Tupper stated that she was really excited about all of the green initiatives and where they can be taken and integrated into the community. Hanging on to the thought that the snow is going to melt and everyone will be able to enjoy the parks. Commissioner Levine reminded everyone of the vote coming up on May 8 for the School District Bond; a $117M renovation focusing on academics and for maintenance; among many other items. An informational open house has been scheduled for Thursday, April 12 at Henry Sibley High School from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Commissioner Miller stated that he thought there was very good discussions that were very fitting and in tune of the role of this commission; looking at the long-range issues staff presented. He also expressed his appreciation to staff for their time and attendance and for the staff support for the commission. Commissioner Klepperich congratulated the basketball teams in the community; particularly Minnehaha Academy for winning its region and St. Thomas Academy for winning a consolation championship. Also, Henry Sibley students have been in the news doing some positive things – which is a good thing. Commissioner Kipp stated that it was a good meeting and he expressed his appreciation to staff for coming and providing valuable information and for trying to work with the commission. Ms. Lawrence is doing a wonderful job in getting the information that they need. Commissioner Goldade also expressed his appreciation to staff for a very well organized meeting agenda and he was excited to hear the outcome of the 3rd party looking at the parks and the playgrounds. Chair Hinderscheid expressed his appreciation to Mr. Masica and Mr. Karlen for stopping in and speaking with the commission about the improvements and the changes they were looking to do. He also thanked Ms. Schueller for the award of the grant that saved the city some money in obtaining the recycling containers. He was also glad to hear that the city is going to use a certified playground inspection company. He is excited on moving forward on the playgrounds and bringing a stronger focus to Natural Resources. He also echoed the sentiments made to staff. 8. Adjourn Motion Miller/Second Tupper to adjourn the meeting at 8:12 PM AYES 6: NAYS 0: ABSENT 1 Minutes Taken By: C. Darlene Oehlke Independent Contractor