2019-05-14 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Tuesday, May 14 2019- 6:30 P.M.
Mendota Heights City Hall—City Council Chambers
AGENDA
1.Call to Order
2.Roll Call
3.Pledge of Allegiance
4.Approval of Agenda
5.Approval of Minutes
a.April 9, 2019 Regular Meeting Minutes
6.Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda)
*See guidelines below
7.Acknowledgement of Reports
a.Par 3 Update
b.Recreation Update
c.Parks Improvement Update
8.Unfinished Business
a.Parks Celebration
b.Community Engagement Ideas
c.Parks Tour Itinerary
9.New Business
a. 3rd Lair Proposal
b.Discuss PRC Golf Event
c.Worksession with City Council
10.Staff Announcements
11.Student Representative Update
12.Commission Comments and Park Updates
13.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.
Guidelines for Citizen Comment Period: The Citizen Comments section of the agenda provides an opportunity for the public to address the commission on items
which are not on the agenda. All are welcome to speak.
Comments should be directed to the Chair. Comments will be limited to 5 minutes per person and topic; presentations which are longer than five minutes will need
to be scheduled with the Recreation Program Coordinator to appear on a future Parks and Recreation commission agenda. Comments should not be repetitious.
Citizen comments may not be used to air personal attacks, to air personality grievances, to make political endorsements, or for political campaign purposes.
Commissioners will not enter into a dialogue with citizens, nor will any decisions be made at that presentation.
Questions from the Commission will be for clarification only. Citizen comments will not be used as a time for problem solving or reacting to the comments made,
but rather for hearing the citizen for information only. If appropriate, the Chair may assign staff for follow up to the issues raised.
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CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS, DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING
April 9, 2019
The April meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on
Tuesday, April 9, 2019, at Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve.
1. Call to Order – Chair Steve Goldade called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
2. Roll Call – The following Commissioners were present: Chair Steve Goldade,
Commissioners Pat Hinderscheid, Ira Kipp, Bob Klepperich, David Miller, and Dan Sherer.
Commissioner Stephanie Meyer and Student Representative Matthew Boland were absent.
Staff present: Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence, Assistant City Administrator
Cheryl Jacobson and Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek.
3. Approval of Agenda
Motion Klepperich/second Miller to approve the agenda.AYES 6: NAYS 0: ABSENT 1
4. Approval of Minutes from March 12, 2019
Commissioner Sherer had one correction to the minutes that being that the basketball
backboard he suggested be obtained from Friendly Hills Middle School would come from the
outdoor court, not from the gymnasium. Staff agreed to make the correction.
Motion Klepperich/second Sherer to approve the minutes of the March 12, 2019 Parks and
Recreation Commission meeting. AYES 6: NAYS 0: ABSENT 1
5. Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda)
*There were no citizen comments.
6.Acknowledgement of Reports
6.a Par 3 Update
6.b Recreation Update
6.c Communications Update
Motion Klepperich/second Miller to acknowledge receipt of the Par 3 Update, the Recreation
Update, and the Communications Update
Commissioner Miller, given the upcoming weather reports, asked if the Par 3 Golf Course was
open. Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence replied that the course was officially
opened today. However, the course will likely be closed for the next few days and will reopen
whenever the weather is cooperative.
In regards to the Recreational Update, Chair Goldade wanted to highlight the Earth and Arbor
Day Volunteer Event on April 27, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. He encouraged residents
to check the city’s website for information.
He also highlighted the need for an adult D level men’s softball team.
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Chair Goldade noted that the Commission has been in discussions about surveying the
community regarding Parks & Recreation issues. The City of Mendota Heights is working with a
company called POLCO; giving them the opportunity to survey citizens. That initiative will start
in May 2019 with a whole city focus. Therefore, in May and June 2019 the commission will start
talking about questions they are interested in asking and have those 3-5 question choices made
for a July 2019 survey.
Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that the Commission had discussed getting a school class
or organization involved in creating a survey; however, it appears that they are rolling the Parks
and Recreation survey into a broader city survey. He asked for confirmation. Assistant City
Administrator Cheryl Jacobson replied that staff still has a survey outline filed with the University
of Minnesota, Minnesota State Mankato, and Hamline University as a potential project or senior
capstone project; however, they have not had any takers.
Chair Goldade clarified that the POLCO would come out with a city-focused survey; however, at
some point the Commission would be picked to have a batch or a number of questions related
to Parks and Recreation. It is just one tool that the commission can use to get feedback from the
residents.
AYES 6: NAYS 0: ABSENT 1
7. Unfinished Business
7.a Park Bench Donation Program Revision
Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek explained that the Commission has been asked to review
the Park Bench Donation Program as well as the application form. A slightly modified form was
included in the Commission Meeting packet.
He continued by explaining that citizens are asked to complete the form to request a memorial
park bench. Staff reviews the application and routes the request through the Parks & Recreation
Commission for approval of the location and to provide recommendation to the City Council for
final approval and official acceptance of the donation amount.
The former donation amount was $1,000. In 2017 the actual cost of the bench and plaque
delivered to the city was just under $1,200. With the addition of a concrete slab ($500) and staff
time to assemble the benches and anchor them to the new concrete slab the total estimated
cost of a park bench would be approximately $2,000. Therefore, staff recommended that the
minimum donation required per bench would be increased to $2,000.
Commissioner Hinderscheid asked if the Commission had ever offered potential site locations
for benches; for instance, at the Dog Park. Mr. Ruzek replied that staff currently leaves that
option open as many memorial benches are located where the person being memorialized
enjoyed being. However, staff could put together a list of possible locations if the Commission
desired.
Commissioner Kipp said that it was very nice that the citizens might want to subsidize the uses
of the benches as this is like a charitable donation on their part. Some of them have probably
planned for some time to purchase a bench. Kipp expressed concerns with raising the cost of
the donation to a minimum of 100% by going from $1,000 to $2,000 in one jump.
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Commissioner Sherer asked if the benches have been coming from the same vendor that the
city has used historically. Mr. Ruzek replied that yes, these have been purchased through
Flagship Recreation who have provided some of the playground equipment.
Commissioner Klepperich noted that there are no other funding sources for the benches so if
they want to continue the bench program it has to be self-supporting. Mr. Ruzek replied that
there could be a recommendation from the Commission to request funding in future years to
subsidize these; however, there is nothing in the 2019 budget. Staff could make that
recommendation to Council for 2020.
Chair Goldade asked how many benches are donated per year. Mr. Ruzek replied that there
has been nine benches donated since the mid-1990’s, when this program began – maybe one
donation per year or every other year.
Commissioner Kipp suggested that the Commission prioritize where they want these benches to
go and put something in the newsletter informing the citizens. Chair Goldade replied that the
Commission has talked of being purposeful in communicating about the program in the Friday
News. This is something the Commission can continue to inform the citizens about.
Commissioner Sherer asked if there was a way to reduce the cost of the concrete slab – make it
smaller or something. Mr. Ruzek replied that he would have to see the surfacing underneath as
his concern would be vegetation or weeds growing underneath. Also, if they put down weed
blocker and/or gravel, the dirt and gravel might blow off more. Most of the cost for the concrete
slab is the mobilization and setup by the contractor.
Commissioner Miller raised the concern that doubling the price could put a stop to the donations
all together.
Commissioner Kipp suggested that the focus be on placing benches no further than one-half to
three-quarters of a mile apart and that staff, knowing which paths are walked more than other,
make those paths the priority.
Since most people interested in donating a bench have a specific place in mind, Chair Goldade
suggested staff put together a list of 3-5 preferred spots.
Chair Goldade summarized the feedback as:
• Find a way to reduce the cost
o Different type of bench
o Reduce the size of the cement pad
o Asking Council to supplement the cost (in 2020)
• Finding a standard distance between the benches, taking topography into consideration
• Make the preferred location by a contributor the priority, but then have a list of 1st, 2nd, 3rd
possible bench locations if no preference is indicated or the preferred location is not
available
Commissioner Kipp asked if the park donation has to be paid all at one time or if it could be paid
for over a number of years. Mr. Ruzek replied that he has not had that request come up. If it
were requested it would probably be a one-time event as the city runs on an annual budget. He
did not believe payments over time would be the best option for this program.
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Motion Kipp/second Klepperich to authorize the Park Bench Budget Donation Form as is, ask
City Council to provide short-term and long-term subsidies, and direct staff to develop a
preferred location list AYES 6: NAYS 0: ABSENT 1
Chair Goldade expressed his appreciation to the residents who have already donated park
benches and encouraged others to donate a bench to this great city.
Commissioner Kipp asked if the donation for a park bench would be tax deductible. Staff agreed
to look into finding the answer to this question.
7.b Community Outreach
Chair Goldade reminded the Commission of Commissioner Meyer’s suggestion of having each
commissioner choose a community group to partner with as another way to obtain feedback
regarding Parks & Recreation by meeting with them periodically, update them on park and
recreation ideas, and listen to them about their ideas. She specifically provided the example of
the Mendota Moms Group.
Commissioner Hinderscheid asked if there were any indication from these groups that they
would be interested in having an arrangement like this. Chair Goldade indicated that this would
probably be the first step after deciding if the commission wanted to move forward.
Commissioner Sherer mentioned that the Moms Group would be a great start as they have
children who play in the parks, participate in the programs, and use the facilities.
Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that it would be helpful to know the community groups that
they would consider contacting.
Commissioner Klepperich stated that he knew that sometimes the relationship with MHAA was
not very smooth; however, would offering to have someone represent them and provide their
feedback be advantageous? Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence replied that
there are three main youth associations that currently utilize the city’s facilities; Sibley Area
Youth Hockey Association, Salvo Soccer Club, and MHAA. They might be good groups to reach
out to.
Chair Goldade suggested the following for a start:
• Mom’s Club
• Somerset Elementary School PTA
• Mendota Elementary School PTA
• Friendly Hills Middle School PTA
• Henry Sibley High School
• Independent School District Community Education
• Mendota Heights Athletic Association Board of Directors
• Sibley Area Youth Hockey Association Board of Directors
• Salvo Soccer Club Board of Directors
Chair Goldade asked Commissioners if this would be something they would be interested in
doing since each of them would be responsible for contacting a group or groups.
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Ms. Lawrence noted that something to keep in mind is the desire to connect with groups that
have perspectives of all age groups. One area they are lacking getting information from is
people who are not in the school system.
Commissioner Hinderscheid suggested some business groups would be a good contact point.
Commissioner Kipp asked if the outreach would be invited by the commissioners or by city staff.
Chair Goldade replied that city staff may help the commissioners with the message but his
thought was that the commissioners would go to the groups.
Each Commissioner was asked if they wanted to continue with this idea:
• Commissioner Kipp – yes
• Commissioner Sherer – yes
• Commissioner Klepperich – yes
• Commissioner Hinderscheid – yes, one Commissioner hears the various groups interest
level
• Commissioner Miller – see two levels of engagement
o Specific input on a project
o Periodic basis for open ended input for new ideas or desires
Chair Goldade requested that the commissioners come back to the next meeting – or next few
meetings – with ideas and suggestions, keeping in mind Ms. Lawrence’s challenge of looking at
all age groups and levels of involvement.
Commissioner Hinderscheid recalled a meeting he had with a representative from the Hastings
Park and Recreation; they conducted a Facebook Live Park and Recreation Meeting. They had
tremendous involvement and were surprised at how well people participated in it.
8. New Business
8.a Parks, Recreation, and Par 3 Annual Report
Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence presented the Commission with the same
report presented to the City Council on April 2, 2019. The items covered in the report included:
• Commission Update
• Facility/Park Improvements
• Recreation Program Review
• 2019 Recreation Plans
• Par 3 Usage Review
• Financial Review
• Equipment and Approvals
• Special Events/Footgolf
• Facility Improvements
• 2019 Par 3 Plans
Commissioner Hinderscheid mentioned that Inver Grove Heights has doubled their greens fees
on the weekends and asked how much those fees were increased on the weekends at the Par
3. Ms. Lawrence replied that the fees are increased by $1.00. Commissioner Hinderscheid
asked if they would want to consider increasing those fees even more. Ms. Lawrence informed
the Commission that they had approved the fees for 2019 and they have been set by City
Council. However, it is something they can look into for 2020. She cautioned them by saying
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that the golf course industry in Minnesota is very competitive and the city has a very short
course. She sees this as a benefit because it is a quick course to get through. However, she
would be very careful about increasing the fees too much. With any increase they will see the
number of players decline.
Commissioner Hinderscheid requested that there be some sort of study done to see what
similar sized courses do on their weekends.
Ms. Lawrence also mentioned that she would not consider Inver Wood Golf Course a very good
course to compare to the Par 3. Burnsville has a nine-hole course that would be a better
comparison.
Commissioner Hinderscheid suggested a simple solar light be installed to light up the golf sign
on Dodd Road. Ms. Lawrence said she would check into it; however, there are residential
homes nearby that may not be a fan of having a light there. The lights installed at the
maintenance garage had to be diminished because the residents felt they were too bright.
Chair Goldade asked if the basketball hoops had been installed at Marie Park. Ms. Lawrence
replied that the basketball hoops have arrived at Public Works, it is just a matter of time to get
them installed; however, it is on their list.
Chair Goldade also asked about the bike racks now that the concrete pads are in. Ms.
Lawrence replied that they are on their way and will be installed soon.
Chair Goldade congratulated Ms. Lawrence on moving the spraying of the grass at the golf
course in-house. It is a great solution.
Commissioner Sherer asked if there was a cost to the city for the Workouts in the Park or is that
a marketing effort by Anytime Fitness. Ms. Lawrence replied that it is a marketing effort on their
part.
8.b Parks Celebration Volunteer Signup
Chair Goldade reminded residents that they are invited to Mendakota Park after they run the 5K
race on June 1, 2019. Besides the activities, they can meet their favorite Park and Recreation
Commissioners.
He then asked for volunteers to sign up for one of the two shifts:
1. 10:45 – 12:00
2. 11:45 – 1:45
Commissioner Miller volunteered for the early shift
Commissioner Kipp volunteered for the same shift.
Commissioner Hinderscheid volunteered for the later shift (11:45 – 1:45), as did Chair Goldade.
Commissioner Sherer said he would do 11:00 – 12:30, as did Commissioner Klepperich.
Chair Goldade asked for ideas or suggestions on what to have at their table/booth or what they
would like to do at the Parks Celebration.
Commissioner Hinderscheid provided an example of what they did in the previous year with the
survey. Commissioner Klepperich suggested they resurrect the written survey used last year.
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Another suggestion was for the Commissioners to wear Parks & Recreation Polo Shirts for a
look of continuity. However, Ms. Lawrence noted that apparel was not budgeted for 2019.
Commissioner Hinderscheid suggested a board showing the locations of the parks and trails in
the city. Mr. Ruzek replied that staff could print a 3 x 5 poster board.
8.c Discussion of Parks Tour
Chair Goldade reminded the Commission of their discussion to have a Parks Tour to look at
facilities that may need updating in the future. Staff is available on Thursday, May 23 at 5:00
p.m. He then asked for suggestions on which parks to visit. Ms. Lawrence said it would be a
good idea for them to pick parks where they would want to look at certain facilities or amenities
that they may want to do upgrades to – ensure there is a purpose when visiting the parks so
they can stay on topic that night.
Chair Goldade asked if Ms. Lawrence had a list of 3-5 they could choose from. She did not;
however, a park that had been discussed in the past was Valley View. It is a park many
residents do not know exists.
Commissioner Klepperich suggested Wentworth Park since Public Works has had an on-going
project there. That would also give them an opportunity to view the warming house that they
have been working on.
Commissioner Hinderscheid suggested the Dog Park and maybe Rogers Lake.
Commissioner Miller noted that he visited Victoria Highland and found it to be clean and
relatively new; there are not any significant issues there.
Commissioner Klepperich also suggested Mendakota since that is the city’s crown jewel and
gem. It would be worth seeing how much it is being used.
Chair Goldade summarized the list of six:
• Valley View Heights Park
• Wentworth
• Dog Park
• Rogers Lake
• Victoria Highland
• Mendakota
The list needed to be whittled down to four. They asked Ms. Lawrence to choose the four.
9. Staff Announcements
Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence made the following announcements:
• There are still open positions available for summer employment, details are available on
the city’s website
• The Earth and Arbor Day Volunteer Event will be on Saturday, April 27 from 10:00 a.m.
to 12:00 p.m. Register through the city’s website prior or at the event on that day
• Golf course is open for the 2019 season.
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Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek made these announcements:
• City Clean-up Day has been scheduled for Saturday, May 4 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00
p.m. at Mendakota Park. There is a fee for some items; details on fees and what can
and cannot be brought in can be found on the city’s website or Facebook page
• Impending snow on the way; staff is not proposing to do any snow plowing of the city
trail systems. The grounds have thawed and they would severely rip up the turf
surrounding the trails
• Some of the metal ramps have been repaired at the Skate Park
• Grants were submitted for both playgrounds
• Staff has been unable to complete the pond project at Wentworth due to melt off and
thaw
• There is a city monument sign on the corner of Mendota Heights Road and Dodd; staff
is doing a re-landscaping of that project in early May
10. Student Representative Update
Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence read an update provided by Student
Representative Matthew Boland:
• He, along with four other students, has started an Environmental Group at St. Thomas
Academy
o They will have regular meetings at school along with a monthly Mendota Heights
Park Clean-up. Their first project area is Rogers Lake Park Skateboard Area on
Saturday, April 20 at 10:00 a.m. They encourage people of all ages to join them
in cleaning the parks to make them a better place.
11. Commission Comments and Park Updates
Commissioner Miller:
• Nothing to report on Victoria Highlands
• There was good discussion this evening
• He expressed his appreciation to Ms. Lawrence for the annual reports
Commissioner Hinderscheid:
• Asked if the vegetation at Ivy Hills Pond would come back now that the dredging of the
pond has been completed. Mr. Ruzek replied that the city did install some native
plantings at Ivy Hills Pond, North Kensington, and Rogers Lake over 10 years ago. He is
now in the process of trying to reach out to Prairie Restorations to get them back out to
all three sites to see what kind of maintenance they need to be brought back to their
original native planting designs.
• The Dog Park was very busy on Sunday, which was encouraging. The people there
could not say enough nice things about the Dog Park.
• He asked if wood chips, gravel, or something could be put down in the high traffic areas
to alleviate the mud.
• Looking at what took place in 2018 was very exciting with a lot of positive changes and
he looks forward to 2019.
Commissioner Kipp:
• He noted that conversation had taken place in the past about an exercise course for
elderly people in the parks; this should be followed-up on.
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• This was a very good meeting and the Commission accomplished a lot
• Ms. Lawrence did a wonderful job with the golf course
• Commissioner Hinderscheid noted that they did try to put in some features that would be
designed for adults when they did the playground updates
Commissioner Sherer:
• Suggested that an actual adult exercise area might be better suited placed separate
from the playground as the adults might feel more comfortable, especially if they are not
with their children
• Hagstrom-King and Friendly Hills Parks are very busy with the warmer weather
• Hagstrom-King grass is soggy with the rain and thaw
• Friendly Hills – the hockey nets are still out on the rink and should be put in storage for
the season
Commissioner Klepperich:
• Summer is on its way, which is great for the Parks and Recreation programs
• He looked at Mendakota yesterday and there were preschoolers and moms on the
playground equipment; everything looked to be in really good shape
• There were two Public Works employees who were literally up to their elbows trying to
locate an irrigation valve over on one of the fields – they found it. But it was certainly an
example of the devoted Public Works people in action.
• The baseball field at Mendakota appears to be ready to play on.
• Baseball was being played on the Civic Center Field
• He would like to see users of the Civic Center Field have a volunteer day where they
could help with some of the cleanup of leaves and twigs, etc.
• The streets are being swept but he encouraged residents to keep an eye on the sewer
openings to keep them clear, especially if there will be another round of rain and snow
Chair Goldade:
• Asked if the tree purchase program was still going on or has the deadline passed. Mr.
Ruzek replied there are two different programs going on:
o Friends of the Parks – not sure of the deadline on that
o City-sponsored program is available until May 11, 2019 and an update posted
yesterday stated that trees are still available
• He encouraged everyone to check out the Adult Tennis Program and to get out an enjoy
the parks
• Marie Park – the new Pickleball nets are here and encouraged everyone to gather
together to play Pickleball
• He too was encouraged by the 2018 report and is looking forward to a great 2019
12. Adjourn
Motion Klepperich/Second Sherer to adjourn the meeting at 7:56 PM
AYES 6: NAYS 0: ABSENT 1
Minutes Taken By:
C. Darlene Oehlke
Independent Contractor
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DATE: May 14, 2019
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: Par 3 Update
April Review
The Par 3 was open for 14 days in April of 2019. The course had a total of 576 rounds. An
additional 120 rounds were played by local high school players. The Par 3 received 3.91 inches of
rain, which is considerably higher than the monthly average of 2.66 inches. In addition the Par 3
received 9.8 inches of snow, which was higher than the monthly average of 2.4 inches.
League Play
Adult league play begins the week of May 27th. The City offers three leagues which include:
Monday Night Co-Ed league, Tuesday Morning Senior League, and Wednesday Night Women’s
League. The Monday Night Co-Ed League and Tuesday Morning Senior League are still in need of
players.
Junior Programs
Junior camps and leagues start the week of June 10th. There is still room in these programs for
those interested in registering a young golfer in our community.
$5 Golf Saturday
The City of Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course hosted a $5 per round golf day on Saturday, May
11th. This event was a promotional tool to bring excitement for the 2019 season to the
community.
Screening of Portable Restroom
A resident reached out to staff requesting screening of the ADA accessible portable restroom
near the 6th green. Staff is working to obtain more information on possible costs and plans if the
Council determines they want to move forward.
Requested Action
Informational Only.
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DATE: May 14, 2019
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: Recreation Update
Summer Programs
Staff is gearing up for a busy summer of programs. There have been a total of 523 people who
have registered for programs thus far. This year the available programs include:
• Youth Tennis Camp
• Cliff Timm Memorial Fishing Derby
• Junior Golf Program
• Wednesday Women’s Golf League
• Tuesday Morning Senior League
• Monday Night Co-Ed Adult League
• Junior Golf League-Wednesday/Friday
• Tiger Tots Golf
• Summer Playground Program
• Abrakadoodle Art Camp
• Little’s Tennis Camp
• Safety Camp
• Sports Unlimited Camps
• Adult Tennis Lessons
• Youth Field Trips
• Officer Scott Patrick Memorial 5K Walk/Run
• USTA Team Tennis
• In-House Tennis League
• Tour De Rec
Earth and Arbor Day Volunteer Event
The Earth and Arbor Day event was rescheduled for May 9th. It was a great opportunity for local
community members to give back to their community.
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Bogey with the Red and Blue
The City of Mendota Heights’ Police and Fire Departments are teaming up for a recreational
round of golf with members of the community on Sunday, June 23rd at 2:00pm. This is a great
way for the community to meet and mingle with officers and firefighters who serve their
neighborhoods. Participants of all ages are welcome to participate. Participants receive a T-Shirt
and Light Refreshments will be provided. The cost is $15 per person.
Summer Concert Series
The City-sponsored Summer Concert Series will take place this summer at Mendakota Park.
• June 19 at 6:45pm-Teddy Bear Band
• July 10 at 7:00pm-Shaw Brothers Band
• July 24 at 6:30pm-KidsDance
• August 8 at 7:00pm-Goombas
• September 7-Movie Night
Parks Celebration
The annual Parks Celebration will begin Friday, May 31st at 8:30pm at Mendakota Park with an
outdoor movie night. The movie shown for the evening will be Mary Poppins Returns. On
Saturday, June 1st the Officer Scott Patrick Memorial 5K will take place at 9:00am at Market
Square Park and the Parks Celebration event at Mendakota Event will be from 11:00am-2:00pm.
This portion at Mendakota will feature inflatables, face painting, a rock climbing wall, and much
more!
Requested Action
Informational Only.
Page 13
DATE: May 14, 2019
TO: Parks & Recreation Commission
FROM: Ryan Ruzek, P.E., Public Works Director
Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: Park Improvements Update
BACKGROUND
Marie Park Improvements
The basketball court has been seeing addition use at this park with the expansion to a full court.
Striping is planned to be completed soon.
Sleeves for pickle ball nets were installed in early May. The bird baths will be repaired with the
tennis court resurfacing project. After the surfacing repairs are complete, the rink will be
repainted.
The tennis court surfacing is expected to take place sometime between May 20–May 31. The
product requires overnight temperatures to remain above 50 degrees for proper curing.
Marie Park has a new park identification sign due to the old one being worn.
Rogers Lake Park
A new grill has been ordered for Rogers Lake to replace the old grill onsite. A new concrete
approach is being replaced by the pavilion.
Wentworth Park and Hagstrom King Playground Improvements
Final approval on the playground installations are being withheld until such time that the city is
notified of the status of its grant application. Any approved contracts before an award would
not be eligible for reimbursement.
Wentworth Park
The pond at Wentworth Park was dredged this winter. The contractor completed its final
seeding in early May.
Staff received a cost estimate for the current warming house building replacement. Preliminary
costs are showing this building to be $500,000. Staff will work with the City Council on
alternative options.
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Valley View Heights Park
A new identification sign will be installed at this park.
Valley Park
City Council authorized a cooperative agreement with Xcel Energy and Great River Greening on
construction of a pollinator corridor habitat project. The city was awarded a $29,000 State
Heritage grant, Xcel energy is contributing an estimated $30,000 in site preparation, and the
City and Xcel are sharing in the $7,000 local match amount. The city is also continuing invasive
species management of the oak knobs.
The pedestrian underpass replacement is scheduled for replacement in 2020 as a final design is
yet to be determined.
ACTION REQUIRED
None – for informational purposes only although comments are welcomed.
Page 15
DATE: May 14, 2019
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: Parks Celebration
Background
Chair Goldade and Vice-Chair Klepperich met with staff to draft a survey for the Parks Celebration
Event on June 1st. Below are the questions that will make up the community survey.
1. List 1-2 strengths in Mendota Heights Parks.
2. List 1-2 improvements/additions that could be made to Mendota Heights Parks.
3. List 1-2 programming ideas for Mendota Heights.
4. Please list any other comments you have about Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation.
At the April meeting the commission set the schedule for commissioners to volunteer at the Parks
Commission. Below is the schedule.
10:45am-Noon: David Miller, Ira Kipp
11:30am-12:45pm: Dan Sherer, Bob Klepperich
12:45pm-2:00pm: Pat Hinderscheid, Steve Goldade
Requested Action
Informational Only.
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Friendly MarshMendakota ParkValley Park NorthValley Park SouthPilot Knob Preservation SiteFriendly Hills ParkWentworth ParkIvy Hills ParkMarie ParkIvy FallsKensington Park SouthCivic Center (Mertensotto Fields)Off-leash Dog ParkCopperfield Ponds ParkSibley Athletic ComplexHagstrom King ParkVictoria Highland ParkRogers Lake ParkKensington Park NorthCherry Hill PondsLexington Marie PondCaren Road PondsFriendly Hills Park Top LotValley Veiw Heights ParkMarket SquareDelaware Pond Pulic AccessDakota County GISCity of Mendota Heights00.250.5MilesLegendTrail BenchesBusTrail TypeBituminous TrailConcrete SidewalkFuture Regional TrailGravel TrailProposed TrailWide Shoulders/On StreetCity ParksPark Bench DonationsPage 17
DATE: May 14, 2019
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: Community Engagement Ideas
Background
Chair Goldade and Vice-Chair Klepperich met with staff and have pointed out the following ideas
as possible groups to communicate with regarding input. Below is the list.
1. Mendota PTA
2. Somerset PTA
3. Community Education Staff
4. Mom’s Club
5. West St. Paul-Mendota Heights Rotary
6. Night to Unite
Requested Action
The commission should determine how they would reach out to these groups and the purpose
of the communication. The group should also identify if there are other local groups they would
like to reach out to.
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DATE: May 14, 2019
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: Parks Tour Itinerary
Background
The Parks and Recreation Commission decided at the April meeting that a Parks Tour would be
planned for Thursday, May 23rd at 5:00pm. The Parks Tour will give commissioners the ability to
tour local facilities that may need improvements in the future.
The following itinerary has been set by Chair Goldade and Vice-Chair Klepperich:
• Valley View Heights Park
• Hagstrom King Park
• Mendakota Park
• Wentworth Park
The Parks Tour will be posted on the posting board as a possible notice of a quorum. Members
of the community are welcome to attend.
Requested Action
Informational Only.
Page 19
DATE: May 14, 2019
TO: Parks & Recreation Commission
FROM: Ryan Ruzek, P.E., Public Works Director
SUBJECT: 3rd Lair Proposal
INTRODUCTION
3rd Lair has assisted Mendota Heights in the maintenance of the Rogers Lake Skate Park. Staff
asked 3rd Lair to put together a proposal for providing an annual maintenance and
improvement plan for the skate park.
3rd Lair held a focus meeting on March 16th with 25 attendees. 3rd Lair also made repairs to the
existing ramps in April and gathered additional input for users in the park.
The attached proposal includes construction of 3 additional features in the skate park; a round
rail, a grind box, and a wall ride ramp. Most users commented that they enjoyed the simplicity
of the park.
3rd lair received requests for numerous other additions that can be considered in future years.
ACTION REQUIRED
If the Commission recommends improvements to the Rogers Lake Skate Park, a motion should
be made recommending the improvements be considered by the City Council.
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Rogers Lake SkatePark 2019 Upgrades
JOB LOCATION INFORMATION
Name Rogers Lake SkatePark
Address 994 Wagon Wheel Trail
City, State ZIP Mendota Heights, MN 55120
Phone
(651) 255-1152
Email ryanr@mendota-heights.com
Project name 2019 SkatePark Updates
CONTRACTOR INFORMATION
Company Action Sports of MN Inc
Name Mark Rodriguez
Address 850 Florida Ave South
City, State ZIP Golden Valley, MN 55423
Phone 763 797 5283
Email mrod@3rdlair.com
Completion date Spring/Summer 2019
COMPANY PROPOSAL
We have spent the last couple of weeks communicating with various users of Rogers Lake SkatePark in Mendota Heights, MN. We
held a focus group meeting on Sat March 16 to begin a dialogue and build an email list. From there we communicated with 25
skatepark users via email. In addition, we spoke to additional skatepark users on Mon/Tues April 8/9 while at the park fixing threshold
metal
Based on the feedback we received, we have put together the following proposal that includes adding 3 additional features to the park;
a round rail, a grind box, and a wall ride ramp. Almost all users made clear that they enjoy the simplicity of the park. The proposed
features were all brought up numerous times as things people would like to have. Additional requests include bowl corners on the
perimeter corners of the park that would increase the overall flow. These are more in-depth features and would make great year 2 and
beyond additions. We believe we can build/install all 3 of these new features in a 5-day work with a budget of $10,000.
Submitted by (Company Representative) Date
OWNER ACCEPTANCE I, Ryan Ruzek, do accept the above scope of work.
Submitted by (authorized representative) Date
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Work Timeline/Labor Cost/Overhead New Feature Supplies Cost
40-hour work week Round Rail: $400
Labor and Overhead = $5500 Grind Box: $2000
Wall Ride: $2100
Round Rail
Grind Box
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Wall Ride
Page 23
DATE: May 14, 2019
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: Parks Commission Golf Tournament
Background
The commission discussed at a prior meeting the possibility of a Golf Tournament or event that
the Parks Commission would host at the Mendota Heights Par 3.
This event could be a way for the commissioners to gain insight from the community on various
Parks and Recreation related ideas.
If this is something the commission wants to pursue, planning with staff will have to begin for the
event.
Requested Action
The commission should discuss a Parks Commission Golf Tournament and determine if it is
something collectively the group is interested in hosting. If there is interest the group should
discuss potential event details.
Page 24
DATE: May 14, 2019
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: Work session
Background
Staff is recommending the Parks and Recreation Commission meet with the City Council for a
work session to discuss park improvements and the budget.
Based on room availability, staff is recommending one of the following dates in the evening:
• June 17
• June 20
Requested Action
The commission should decide on a date and time to hold a workshop for meeting with the City
Council.
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