Loading...
2009-03-10 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AGENDA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Tuesday, March 10, 2009 — 6:30 P.M. City Council Chambers 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of February 10, 2009, Minutes 4. Introduction of New Parks and Recreation Commissioner — Steve Commers 5. Recreation Programmers Report (Available Tuesday) 6. Park Celebration Volunteer Opportunities (Verbal) 7. Recreation Program Registration Open House — Verbal Update 8. Residents Concerns Regarding Roger's Lake Water Quality 9. Restoration Efforts at Historic Pilot Knob 10, Update/Review 2004 Plan "Future Trail Options" 11. Mendota Plaza - Verbal Update 12. Eugenia Avenue - Verbal Update 13. Par 3 Update - Verbal Update 14. Commission Comments 15. 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. Meetings can be viewed on the City website www.mendota-heights.com Draft CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING February 10, 2009 The February 2009 meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, February 10, 2009, in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. The meeting was called to order at 6:30 P.M. The following Commissioners were present, Chair Paul Portz, Commissioners: Tom Kraus, Ray Morris, Larry Craighead, Maureen Brackey, Michael Toth and Liz O'Brien. Staff present were: Jake Sedlacek, Assistant to the City Administrator, John Mazzitello, Public Works Director/City Engineer, Guy Kullander, Parks Project Manager, Teresa Gangelhoff, Recreation Programmer, and Nancy Bauer, Recording Secretary. MINUTES: Commissioner Craighead made a motion to approve the minutes with corrections. Commissioner Brackey seconded the motion. AYES: 7 NAPES: 0 PARKS AND RECREATION REPORT Chair Portz asked if the Boltz's Tae Kown Do spring break program would be held at the Mendota Plaza. Ms. Gangelhoff responded that it would be held at the Mendota Plaza. She also said she has applied for a grant for trail signage and to start "healthy" programs by getting people outside and active. Simple steps starts April lst. She has 50 t -shirts for the first 50 walkers that sign up at the parks celebration. Chair Portz reported that Sibley gymnastics is going on and started January 24th Ms. Gangelhoff reported that skating lessons ended last Saturday. The 55+ program committee is planning programs this summer for seniors. Chair Portz reported that the Parks Celebration is June 6t" with a Minnesota Twins game on a large screen TV on June 5th at Town Center. The celebration will be combined with the School Districts Anniversary Celebration. Commissioner Brackey asked Ms. Gangelhoff is she was looking for volunteers within the community. Ms. Gangelhoff replied she is looking for volunteers and anyone can volunteer. Please call her at City Hall if you would like to volunteer. Chair Portz said the ice rinks were going strong until a few days ago. P-1 2/10/09 Draft Ms. Gangelhoff replied that Terry at Public Works closed the rinks on Monday. They will be closed until Thursday when it is suppose to get cold again. People can check the hotline to see when they are open. Ms. Gangelhoff reported there is a new tennis coach for the summer. There will be a travelling tennis team to play with other kids in Inver Grove Heights and West St. Paul. Chair Portz commented there is a registration night coming up. Ms. Gangelhoff said there will be Parks and Recreation registration on Monday, March 2, 2009, where people can register for all parks and recreation programs such as the golf camps, golf lessons, golf leagues and tennis lessons. Mendota Heights Athletic Association will also be there to register for t -ball. Also, being planned for this year is a summer playground program. It would be a weekly program with themes such as water week and nature week. There would be younger kids in the morning and then older kids in the afternoon. It could be a four week program. Commissioner O'Brien asked how many kids it would be limited to. Ms. Gangelhoff said about 20 kids. There would need to be one instructor for every 10 kids. Commissioner O'Brien said this is an idea to utilize the parks in the City with the kids. Chair Portz asked if it would happen in the summer. Commissioner O'Brien said for four weeks in the summer. The details are still being worked out. Chair Portz asked about summer programs. Ms. Gangelhoff reported that Safety camp is in August. Skateboard camp will be at Rogers Lake Park with 3`d Lair holding the camp. The Minnesota Thunder will hold a soccer camp. The fishing derby will be in July. Chair Portz asked if the performances in the park was held in one park or different parks. Ms. Gangelhoff replied that one night it will be held at Sibley and one night at Rogers Lake Park with the fishing derby and one performance at Mendakota Park. The summer playhouse is held at Marie and Mendakota Parks on Mondays. Chair Portz said that three pages of the Heights Highlites are devoted to parks and recreation programs. Also, on the first page is an article looking for a Parks and Recreation Commissioner. If anyone wants to apply they should send a letter of interest by February 20th to City Administrator Jim Danielson. This is a fun commission to work on. Commissioner O'Brien asked if any application have been submitted yet. Mr. Sedlacek responded that two applications have been received. Council would like to interview on Marc' - 3`d before the Council meeting. P_2 2/10/09 Draft INTRODUCTION OF PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR JOHN MAZZITELLO Mr. Mazzitello reported that he has been the City Public Works Director/City Engineer for six months next week. He grew up in St. Paul. He graduated from Cretin Derham Hall. He went to Marquette University via a ROTC scholarship. He entered the air force as an active duty Lieutenant in 1992. He settled in Fairbanks Alaska where he worked for the State of Alaska and the Department of Environmental Conservation and Department of Transportation. His family moved back to Minnesota in 2004 and lived in St. Paul where he worked for a private consulting firm. While looking to move out of St. Paul to Mendota Heights he came across the job in Mendota Heights. Chair Portz said he was glad to have him at the meeting for an introduction and for opening a line of communication. There is a lot going on for opportunities for the Parks and Recreation Commission especially with the new Minnesota Sales Tax and the Federal Stimulus Acts. Projects should be applied for with this kind of funding available. The trails need upgrading in the community. Staff could follow up on these opportunities. If anyone on the Commission see opportunities they should pass it on to staff. Mr. Mazzitello reported that the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Act that passed in the last election is being solidified in the legislature as to how it can be processed and utilized within communities. Through the City's affiliation with the League of Minnesota Cities, Minnesota Public Works Association and the City Engineers Association the City gets updates as the process unfolds. Mr. Sedlacek said the Parks and Recreation Commission talks about trails and funding for them is not in the budget. There is Municipal State Aid money for streets that could be used for trails which falls under Mr. Mazzitello. Commissioner Morris suggested that Mr. Mazzitello check on ISTEA money that will be coming out from the federal level that can be used for rehabbing the trails in the City. It could be worthwhile checking with MnDOT and letting them know that trails need some major renovation. Chair Portz asked if it was ok to contact Mr. Mazzitello with any ideas. Mr. Mazzitello responded absolutely, stop by or feel free to call. Commissioner Kraus asked what are the top priorities or responsibilities of his department. Mr. Mazzitello responded it was roads and utilities. There are maintenance crews that take care of snow plowing and maintenance of the streets. There is a sanitary sewer system and storm sewer system. There is also the rehabilitation of the utilities. The City tries to do one to three projects a year rehabbing the utilities and streets on the street right of way. Working through Mr. Kullander facilities maintenance and trail maintenance that don't fall under streets or utilities. Commissioner Morris said he would like to commend the young staff member who has worked on the rain gardens in the Somerset area. The rain gardens have been very beneficial and is a good green project. He has done a good job with the rain gardens. It has been a real success. Mr. Kuchinka did most of Mr. Mazzitello said he would pass the n tremendous sucormation gcess writh thelstreedt projects and moreoare planned the work. The rain gardens have been throughout the City. Commissioner Morris said they are a really good thing. They look nice and serve a real purpose. 2/10/09 P-3 Draft Commissioner Kraus asked if money was still available through Dakota County for rain garden projects. Mr. Mazzitello said he would check. There was money available last year. TRAIL REQUEST FOR MINNESOTA CONSTITUTIONAL DOLLARS Mr. Sedlacek said there were more voters of Minnesota voted on the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment than on any other candidate or issue in Minnesota. 1.6 million voters voted yes and 1.1 million voters voted no. It did create dedicated funding. The tax will begin to be collected on July 1, 2009. 33% of all revenues will go to a newly created outdoor heritage fund to be spent to restore, protect and enhance wetlands, prairies, forests and habitat for game, fish and wildlife. 33% of the clean water fund will be spent to protect, enhance, and restore water quality in lakes, rivers; streams and groundwater (with at least 5% of the fund to be spent to protect drinking water sources). 14.25% will be spent on parks and trails with funds to be spent to only support parks and trails of regional or statewide significance. 19.75% will fund a newly created arts and cultural heritage fund to be spent only for arts, arts education, and arts access and to preserve Minnesota's history and cultural heritage. In order to acquire any of this funding it will not be through a grant but through submitting a bill to the legislature. There is only one oversight body to oversee all four areas of the amendment. Outdoor heritage fund requests are due by April 1St. The funding is unknown since taxes aren't being collected yet. There is no deadline for the other funds. It is thought to have requests for the other funds in by April 1st. There are areas in the City in terms of heritage and linkage. They are the Minnesota River Trail and the Northern Urban Regional Trail (HURT) that are not linked yet. They are two choking points; the NURT trail along Dodd Road to Valley Park and the Minnesota River Trail from Valley Park to Highway 13. Easements are needed to finish connecting the trails. Mr. Kullander reported the plans were authorized by City Council a year and half ago. The plans are completed acquiring easements are being work on. The grants could be applied for to construct them. Mr. Sedlacek said a proposal will be put together for both trails. There should be no impact on the Special Park Fund or the City's General Fund. Commissioner Kraus commented it was great to get funding for new trails but what about money for maintenance of the trails once they are built. Commissioner Morris commented that some of the trails are past rehabbing and need to be built from the ground up. Valley Creek is one of the trails that is wash boarding. Commissioner Craighead said a few years ago $10,000 was spent for maintenance of the trails. Mr. Kullander said there is now $45,000 in the budget for maintenance of the trails. Commissioner Kraus asked if that is enough money to keep up with what needs to be done for the trails. Mr. Kullander said is was not. Council decides on the budgeted amount for maintenance of the trails. Commissioner Morris said there is a new administration for the Land and Water Conservation Fund on the Federal side for enhancing parks. Money may be loosened up and they snatch funds 50%. The DNR may P_4 2/10/09 Draft get some money from the Feds and that should be kept in mind. The funds come from the gas tax and offshore leasing tax. Chair Portz said it was a good update and information. Chair Portz asked a guest if he wanted to speak at the meeting. Mr. Alan Anderson came to observe the meeting because he saw the article looking for a new Commissioner. He did not know what the Parks and Recreation Commission did. DISCUSSION OF EUGENIA AVENUE Mr. Sedlacek said City Council has entertained a request to vacate a 30 foot right-of-way by Highway 13 north of Sylvandale. The request was made by Brian Brunette, 591 Hiawatha Avenue, to vacate half of the alley behind his property and all of Eugenia. It is a landlocked parcel of land. Eugenia Avenue was platted in 1924 with the Cherokee Heights Parks subdivision. In 1988, with the subdivision to the south, the Ivy Falls 2nd subdivision, it was decided that Eugenia Avenue was not needed as a street by the City Council. Instead of having the subdivision dedicate 30 feet for a full right-of-way they allowed the developer to integrate the land into the lots. Between 588 and 597 Sutcliff Circle there is a 10 foot easement on each lot that is for utilities, on December 6, 1988, Council referred to this easement as a potential for a future trail. The individual at 591 Hiawatha Avenue on February 7, 1989, asked for a vacation of the rest of Eugenia Ave. The Council at that time discussed whether it was necessary to have a trail connection through there. The Council opted at that time not to vacate Eugenia. The Council felt at that time it may serve a purpose in the future for a trail connection. This same discussion has come up to the current Council. The question Council is now weighing is it better to vacate this property or preserve it for a future use? It is now used as a walking path. Council thought it appropriate to ask the Parks and Recreation Commission to weigh in on the matter as there have been discussions in the past with the Paries and Recreation Commission. Is this a viable trail section? Commissioner Morris asked about the other parcel with the 20 foot easement and if the homeowners had encroached on the right-of-way on each lot. Mr. Sedlacek said part of the discussion in 1989 was that the trail would be awfully tight between the two homes. The homes might be right up to the 10 foot right-of-way. Commissioner Craighead asked if Eugenia Avenue was now grass. Mr. Sedlacek said Mr. Brunette's portion was maintained by him and the other portion is not maintained as well. Chair Portz said people are walking through there now. Commissioner Morris said he would like to hear from the other landowners about putting a trail through there. The two landowners on the 20 foot easement would probably not be happy about a trail going through their property. P-5 2/10/09 Draft Commissioner Kraus pointed out that the other homes on the Sutcliff cul-de-sac would be impacted if a trail were built between the two homes. There would be10 homes impacted. What does that landowner propose to prevent foot traffic through that yard? Can an easement be granted to the homeowner to put up a fence for security reasons and keep the rest of the property for a future trail? Mr. Sedlacek said if the property were vacated the homeowner is going to landscape and fence the property. The City does not allow a homeowner to put up a fence on City right-of-way. Commissioner Kraus said if Eugenia Avenue were vacated there would be one option left for a trail that is not a desirable option. Commissioner Morris asked if the property owner has had acts of vandalism. Mr. Sedlacek responded there were two break-ins reported - one in 2006 and the other in 2008. Commissioner Morris said it's not a false request. It would be nice to retain the property for a trail in the future with the wooded area on the other side of Highway 13 and asked who owned the property. Mr. Sedlacek responded there are five lots off of Sutcliff and St. Paul Regional Park. Commissioner Morris said it could be a potential link to St. Paul and beyond. Mr. Sedlacek said it's a steep link. Commissioner Craighead said he rides his bike on the other side of Highway 13 — not on the side with the homes. Mr. Kullander said there is a gravel trail on the other side of Highway 13 with an access gate to an overlook. It is an unknown area. It's the Vento trail. Commissioner Craighead commented that the homeowner could let the right-of-way go natural that would help improve security. He also said he didn't recall talking about this in the past and he's been on the Commission for 10 years. There is a map that identified potential sites for trails. Mr. Kullander said this site was a low priority for a trail. Commissioner Craighead said he wouldn't want the land as a trail. It would not be a good idea to have bikers cross Highway 13 at that area. Commissioner O'Brien asked if people were using it for exercise or taking a short cut. Mr. Sedlacek responded there are different thoughts on it. It was mentioned that it is a teen hangout. Avid walkers do use it to get to the St. Paul Park. Mr. Sedlacek asked if the Parks and Recreation wanted to make a motion to the City Council regarding this property. Commissioner O'Brien said she didn't have enough information to make a recommendation to the City Council and would like to hear from people about this. Commissioner Morris agreed and would hate to lose the land. P_6 2/10/09 Draft Chair Portz said the property owners effected by this decision were at the last City Council meeting to talk about the issue and can be watched on the webeast. If there is a security issue that issue needs to be addressed. He also doesn't remember discussing it. It would be a shame to give up the land. Commissioner Kraus said he would also like to see the map of potential trails. Mr. Sedlacek said the City Council is discussing this item at their second meeting in April and the master trail plan could be brought to the next Parks meeting. Commissioner Morris said there is future plans for the Vento overlook. Mr. Sedlacek said more information would be on the agenda at the next Parks and Recreation meeting. REVIEW OF CURRENT WEB CONTENT Mr. Sedlacek reported that an email address has been set up to send comments about the parks. The email address is lovetheparks(ornendota-heihts.com The email address did not make it in the Heights Highlites. There have been no comments submitted yet. Commissioner Craighead remarked that he was pleased to see the extent of the content on the website. Mr. Sedlacek said cudos should go to Teresa for keeping the information update. The City is hoping to redesign the website in the future. Chair Portz asked if the webmaster was an employee or contract employee. Mr. Sedlacek responded a part-time employee updates the website but can not make major changes to it. Commissioner Kraus commented there is a lot of great content. There is a lot of clicking to get to information and the website is confusing. There is no information about the Pilot Knob site. Commissioner Morris suggested contacting a university to build a website. It looks good for a portfolio for a student. Commissioner Kraus asked if statistics were kept about the website. Mr. Sedlacek said no. Commissioner Kraus said that would be something to keep in mind when designing a new website. PAR 3 ANNUAL REPORT Chair Portz said the annual report was a good format. There was an operating profit for the year of $30,000 with a total revenue of $186,000. Mr. Sedlacek reported that a pro -forma is being developed for 2009 that was proposed by Councilmember Vitelli. Chair Portz asked if the pro -forma would be a budget for next year. 2/10/09 P-7 Draft Mr. Sedlacek responded it would be a budget pro -forma. Last year a monthly expenditures cash flow worksheet was used. What was not in there was an estimate to budget month by month for revenues or expenditures and administrative costs weren't budgeted in month by month. That was about $19,000. 2009 will be an interesting year for the Par 3 with the economy. 2008 had a number of capital expenses. The projection of 2009 needs to be added to the annual report. The anticipated capital expenses for 2009 is $30,000. The roof of the clubhouse is a major concern. We are not going to touch it unless we have to. There is $7,000 budgeted for replacing a mower. There will be landscaping expenses such as cleaning up the trees. Chair Portz said it's a good value and cheapest green fees in the twin cities. Market ideas have come from the greens committee. Commissioner O'Brien asked about the status of the greens committee. Chair Portz said the greens committee brought in a volunteer landscape architect. Money has been budgeted for planting flowers by the clubhouse. The greens committee is meeting again on February 19tH Mr. Sedlacek said a concept plan is being brought to the greens committee at the February 19th meeting. When the plan gets finalized it will then go to Council for bidding. Core users of the golf course are from the area — Mendota Heights, Eagan and West St. Paul residents. People will drive by other golf courses to golf the Par 3 because it is a fun, laid back course. The clubhouse manager is returning and so is the maintenance manager. Mr. Perkins understands the nature of the course and there will be birthday party offerings, an open and an invitational is being planned while keeping the down home feel that it has had. Commissioner Craighead suggested posting the youth tournament information on the website. COMMISSION COMMENTS Commissioner Craighead commented that this would be his last meeting. There were no further comments. Commissioner Kraus made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Commissioner Morris seconded the motion. AYES 7 NAYS 0 The meeting adjourned at 8:04 P.M. P-8 2/10/09 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARK AND RECREATION SCHOOL'S OUT YOUTH TRIPS— SPRING BREAK MONDAY -APRIL 6, 2009 -PARK & REC DAY (a TUESDAY-APRIL 7, 2009 -PARK & REG DAY FAMILY MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY (c� THOMPSON PARK ACTIVITY CENTER IN MENDOTA HEIGHTS You and your friends will not want Family Martial Arts Academy- Boltz's Taekwondo to miss this activity packed FUN,,5 0=e 780 South Plaza Drive, Mendota Heights g w- 'tiy day at Thompson Park Activity Program Start -9:00 am -Check in with MH Park and Rec Staff at Academy. (Please note: No bus for this activity, please drop child Center Lodge in West St. Paul. off at address above, Park & Rec staff will supervise with Academy We have plans for a Mario Kart staff from 9-4 pm) Wii tournament on a huge screen, bingo with prizes, The day will be packed with all kind of activities for boys and girls that craft center and lots of fun games. We will end the day will fit all age groups and abilities. Games like target slide, paddle ball and commando, will be played. with popcorn and a movie (tbd) on the giant screen. Taekwondo lessons will be given during a morning and afternoon ses- sion and some free time to work on your skills. An afternoon snack will Ages: 6 and up be provided. Cost: $10.00 Lunch: We will walk to McDonalds-(Dress for the Time: 9:30 am to 3:30 pm AL1® Weather) bring your own spending money for lunch or you may bring bag lunch. o please drop off and pickup Time: 9 am to 4 pm (earlier and later drop/pick up are your child at - available but please call to arrange.) TPAC, 1200 Stassen Lane Cost: $35.00 In WSP no ( bus provided) -� a Ages: 6 and up� ....... MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS & REC REGISTRATION FORM ndota Heights, MN You may register in person or by mail (Unless Noted) for all activities al: Mendota Heights City Hall, Parks and Rec, 1101 Victoria Curve, Meendota Heights) By signing below you agree that the city of Mendota Heights shall not be liable for any claims, demands, injuries, ou or your property due to the passive or active negligence of the city of Mdhdota Heights, damages, actions or pauses of action whatsoever to yit's agents or employees. 55118.(Make checks payable to City of M s agreement by signing below. We reserve the right to cancel any program due to insufficient enrof1ment with a complete refund. No I have read and understand thisf ctivity. A $5 service fee will be charged for cancellations made prior to the start of a program- $5 non-residential fee for all programs EXCEPT refunds after stag oad. Part of a EDTA LIABILITY RELEASE - b si nin below ou rant the Cit of Mendota Hei fits unconditional ri ht to use name voice nd holo where notechild in connection with ci 's use in video articles or ress releases. "if ou do not want our child's likeness used lease inform recreation likeness a department at 651 45Z-1850 and note it on req istralion below. Fee Activity Name Activity Date City of Mendota Heights 1. —�—` $ Parks & Recreation 2. �— $ 1101 Victoria Curve 3 Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Please fill in this section for Youth Programs Only. Male Female — 651-452-1850 School Grade _ Child's Age _ Birth date 1 1_ Participants Name Home Phone (Youth only) Parerils cell or 4ork phone FOR OFFICE USE ONLY DATE RECD city Zip Check # Address Recei t # AMOUNT Date ,,.r Parent Name (Please Print) Parent Signature ti O '~ m C14 1-1 O b y a a ° m3 �,�? o , a�j a V 3O N N d p 9E O ba �'�O V1 H ��,` N N O TE q a o" N a N .ri �L, vi F e0 b 7 .-RO" T °' °' % '�' G 0 cdi m Tam o o a� boo akt n t �r5 hN ° p U [•��•� �� �.o-i cqa y d 'y o o F mT ° p->, m �a ti •-" ., -,-5 + d �+ ": •O p a> >, " ` , .+ LL 3 a > q H :.3 tqd N .-C" H N m p hp O N V O y O 'O cTd P. ti a Z aTi .3 ab0i n '3 k7 x a °°° W ° o e°n ^ w y cuga a dxaL<R°. •.�O*cd3� wFE"''��ti', �nw o�Ro, mkNUo^_��c°`' ]Yoc.+ .OLf;� ;p3y�D p wS"+i H�xRqqq.'aJyy Y-FN3, Nw3 v�CT>3 w.Wo .°yyu> -y o •(ihuaad 3 "pm°>. , .Oopod pw 'aTW��w•°a•�i� p•O.',dd Ou P43.)a� C 7 1 0 1-55 ao o noa; o ta�4" Md'o oma� o~~p❑y�(Op aqo"�Cdl0 33 qi o en,N- u o 0 C'4 co ti 'd 0 C/]u1 o °din oCd/'Ov OT dd � o dQ. en v0 >>0, Po'O0 A o � oyorAWP. d !;3 O OOV:� ° 'N 03 u w o o c-- oyCF°yS'U 69 d N y0 O 0� N ,:i o q?CoWpnCNT . '•!pmoO•au�y3aad� , Npc'�Q°dm%� ' 7G'�xdmaqm'o ' b.'Y�.r���aC)+ NNa•'ya°opN' 4ayCLnaui' —.pv�oN3pc'0 a yvc°YuCcc3i C':HNrdE"r0 VY.oaqONL]�.'[yoaAi h<knhd7 .yW'o�tiaos 4>RNo�"o, .�.N-oo"I NFv`.Ea~.Ii . �waa°o� .�o"-Q7a"ote-. py_ac3o �E-uvoC�L. .o-°. v>dRcEd . x..�°0�.J'aYniao� o"^cpo�adI oUh°.p q7- • , `�O]/"uUmaeai 3 b•y�7-, ' ubti^pacaC9d 'Y¢Gadp� y�aoN x°pk°.q7�, ohwyaei w.•y7" �uP'"�°uo..d,� rQqv�on rv�aO°-� �cN`f•dq/'qvm o.1, ' q E _yaoT33ad, q in m Id O E69 ^ O N O d 0 VNb0>aoU q yT ko�d� do°.!:I Eq C �> . C4 e° adq x � ta a N e jP Cd 0 xEh°O o'° eo ° op cP'E 2 ohm�a•� QV.orwaOah cm -!.jN ' > d `aN O B ONE. "O o(/i - ;N u ° P. F T O °6 ° y>F y �ti QwgL Xd0 0 � o d dbOQ •dO O cd knW OU C N ..i puy v° ENd�TC, N O L) opN m b U Vfyo C, Y.Ct �; 0, T>, v v mW "0-1q � ;O V] 3 %• y mbi N w N �.�� C'sa> �N v.3� �: Ni o h Lo E d> v�i� `/ e DC7 o ['w .. o 10 qti oLaVW"d y w CD O.o 7 ocd Eo " .2 00 m o N N O O N �' Aoo bA h qHM y'ad . . I y".wyLqCd ; .cu°hdc� b0.vaUNo3asq - .fTR-m•., «w(❑CN�ydp 'xEmm">N,. , W *N .ti�❑q .'.-uGCda 1 _E.y4uNd°3q C.� GbTdNNu3i UaHqcNd YNa+ reVC-•bE-1•0 Wtc{OLCdod O V) Ow c Rao C7 d 0 W a cc� o 0 G 5C d N O W O d. cn _ydd0�°Oss �0-d00" w U N N' N > C6 O Ml O N O O > LiC , L na>E �m E t3 Lo qx A a y.. E Nm cca cN ° 0 0 W °� °3 N .ao . o ON r: op nyy M N N -C O7 FC[0 Ow " A is° P, o•odC b^ do•� .o co N O N b>14 C J o w�N b u+Oq m" hCp > g q ^d>aqO o 0" o o N 7,'ti .o � �3.�� a c -F o � N� � H YEN••{ H �°c'EN� rz.Px C°� F>.� no�A ►-,LTi�NV pi 0 p o+ ���NO �a) - CD W C L a) d m = av ov O ca N m c d QE m om L d C�: OW O - a R o in - d3 mi�Q0 N 2 Z N a` w t Lu -. d R O U Q R w�ci0a)0-3 Z OL O W R O ° C90 0- C� _j N m C-, L`yj a aI c > E w� E0LLOo R c O O y F h 0 N� N c Q � 3 c - Q W N Z b.R.3•2�w oyaN�C�N N oo (1 W a) N� o_n-2c a L mr0 E �t C wO'W C 3 RiL E 0 LL dE�ccOi0zc RJ, O d =Y a0 c rnR=EJR U E 0— cJ ca n. o - 0 p = (O 2 2m� m w E o 3 a� N O d d -O V C E R R cI m 3 c 3= O '- -o d R w v w N U n• UJ m O E a>i¢ ° cUil vt NU M Q' G AFI`_ d N N Y D L N a� E9 O(-- O E O O R U m "v o °-Q n o 3 c U) Td Y..N. °� d o R d N E m`�rE�vt= U O � ` a d Y (c6 p C C R T_ CL -T -3 N R N U U R E O U U E U 7 E R `° `m c> c N O U a R m U_ O -l0 LL 4J R N (4 -S N E cq U NO O] N N C a0 a E o `'Z2 o R N N 0 ` 3 E F c, Q U TO R p o u - w U o1� Q U c d O ri N OD N ID o R Lum c o m LL mN m R m N `o QU RU d O c O � � O � N L > O ; d f 2 0 ca v c m c w F- N � •N O_ ++ N d d t R -E O E a �oEOI(on . R o U R U 0 7 O R R d L N d 0 U 3 E R O t Cl h a•'N aoiL-.. a > y U R R 3 0 -EL cd 3 a E d E C U y � d• � dLw R vi alJ XW R d .�'• N in 'a H y m a 1-= Q -> �0' CL W ai c 0 R U R a) o I -o N m Y R d fq ` R R U n. o N do O C. E Ld O- E o CnL S c Lu N � � E o� d (D 3 c" co N R Y O_ 0 -0 , m U _C p� R [O o (WL) R — d 0 R N 0 U T C 'y d m E d s o L o U R m c • d) O R 3 � d d R L t c c rn C N U m `m cd 2 N T W d ca - o mai mU d CU P y c Q O N p r o az x N c R d - d ci *^S -2-i 0-Im� 3 SD aCD d = 0 ==,= d (-_3 C o C`� -do 3 d m d m� .� o m o `< cn m cn d p CD n � �a d�CD < c oO D r° r 3 0 m CL O v a o YS�_ w.0n o d o tn,aa rno ho O= cD N r 0 y c d o N to r= = n w mDo w m N C) Qzo CD to = C D m Jc' 0 t0 •inSz d m � m -o m Nmaa3 o= 0 c o c? D � a m 0IN d V �o Od ao 0 9-0 o _ d ($o O CO d O 3 CD _ m �ws0o.� d '� GD (D = 4! N 3 - :* c (n 3 d Cn (D pT 0 CD =m CD 0 Jo v � m o o (� _ m o o o m m = 0 0 � Ea �w n c* O = d 4i _ T. = d =(off o d d 3 m ED B 0 0 '.co o m 0-0 o .. d o 0 c C d D O — � F N O C O O a d O n 0 O C n n o 3 O 3 O a = m Z m (D d '7 X C cu O ED � C (D � cn O `G O O O C 0< O d y 0 I O d 0 o = o p o W N m 3 3 w = 2-(-- Cm 0 C C�a' V/ p (D 02-5 o 00 Om m n� a(Dn0o < N d to (n _- C Cao a m r o (D r (o d Z a Z N m TI cD �� o'�o-am om-.� d� cso mad = l a o 3 0 d 1 �- N O C O d Z- o T .Zc1 J O ov 3 fq a Zoo (Q d C C y 0 1 y 0 C 0 CD 0 •' d `C d_ D o d a O : m o 0 3 -o � c cn o - T O N (p 90 U3 n C O ap C y 73m D 0m_aoaioDoaui N d d 0 a an d O d (n = (n o v cn (D r d fD `< 0 F�i� o m -- d d d = d .0 � toil �• N Z m a-K� n-� m rn �� O a� ? o " T C-) O (D C-) (O a M ID w ooCD o�-d �N S v0 W 0 Ep d 'Q (n PC (n o d> � 1 o= Er d m o d m o o- 3 pc a o 3 C) 3:E c ti o o n= d = D o c om (°_,. .iia v o- — r 7 N 0 C' d= N .0-' 3- � o d (3n O 0 m x 3 n C O T odd, o�Q_<- _ W 3 0 _c g d N 0 W -O O-, d o O (O d C a (D O CD 00 N _ y m n 3 0= (0n d m CD 0 0 n N = N O � 0 o �. d c C O � 0 rn r D Md m o DO C o o Z � p Ln, Z =mm G7 oN cnmm 1 O d un n U) O n _" D O * G) < Z C C 0 <G-) 0 0 Z ? Z w D _ < owe m z rn (n C7 �,3 N CD y -n M d Ox= -i H a cn =mN m ,,Q° < D mm3 mmo- -I M Z m C/) O C)c c� Ohm G) < CO D OC M C �mm G7 =mm � C)� O srmy0 C jz D K� BD O -1 N zni < r C, �_ m cn m m cn p O m O c Z M cn C M �7 DC7 O r M --1 O C E5 cn O C o C N V) m -A m x 3: C S Q 5 m 0> CD � _ chi m Colo D o�MO c Z> rt CD �j -� to r v m n 0 ° -1 °'S 2 0r-0� m = C' W o4 r = ° CL nSrtm m a�z n �m rrZm D 0T. W 0mt7 O �/ T 0 c3 c,,Q Er m7c rr�m �\ i rt C7 m r .+aDcn oc� Nlz�d rt�r O v �rp3 1=im = 33 Z O id m cmi �m ODZM 0,0Z Z <m z X z O D 3- N g? mo=o rrtr (m"O 0 v CD 'r ;,u �° CD C mD D C go Oi m'nG2- �Z 1�� yy Z� pCZK C O -I /'� T N cD 3 Z o O --I p -O cD E. ■G) /V ��/� rt N {� Dcn-n0 ,-.D V. =0 Ucr _ .CD N ��.���im (lD lT13 ph0 c)m =00m39.G)m N Oj m ° ;UZ -i{-N �=.i1 TT T 0 = �M 0�0�.-1 N � �� �.DOS0 D0 D O rt rll Vi '� V,Dnyy ��CY,CD nm >o d Ica cD m =rcnm ��� pi W i;a ..3 go�,�<_w3 0c m 3 m =izd c�Dm N D m a'=� 0,003 0 Cna Z Z m m m> i0v M _ c7N O r� Q nOrtm D = ':0 =Cern cmm m �D 0 •� r«co �o o ccnm m rnD Cp •� (on 71 N rt CD U? 3 n T= ' W +� -n= Nm� Z� 7 OD r+o m o,xn�OU2 r 0 o C < 0 r �3 Qoj mG) 1 v C 0IIl �-nT N 11 Q _ ,3`c �.3mzm D scD o i T7=0 av ° o s o nrt'ro a x < 3 Adam °�=06 _- o O .,, � O- `� (n CL City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM March 4, 2009 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission Jake Assistant to the City Administrator From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: Residents Concerns Regarding Roger's Lake Water Quality BACKGROUND: Several times over the past ten or so years residents have approached Council members individually and at regular City Council meetings to request improvements to the water quality of Roger's Lake - specifically weed control. In 2006 the City Council engaged the firm of "Blue Water Science" to undertake an aquatic evaluation and prepare a report addressing lake management ideas. City Council authorized $2,000.00, in matching funds of the estimated $4,000.00 study cost, if an equal amount were contributed by area residents. Last year, in support of the City's recreation programmed Fishing Derby, a lake weed harvester was hired to remove weeds in the vicinity of the fishing pier in Roger's Lake Park prior to the derby in July. This operation was observed by residents in the area and several questioned staff if residents living on the lake could enlist the aid of City staff (coordinate efforts) in obtaining a permit(s) from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for any future efforts to control/treat weeds in the lake. DISCUSSION: Recently Mr. Pat Hickey (2303 Swan Drive) and I have exchanged emails and phone calls. Mr. Hickey would like to "keep the ball rolling" to address treatment options to control weeds in the lake. Attached are copies of information Mr. Hickey has distributed to residents around the lake including Mendakota County Club. I have informed Mr. Hickey that a funding "line item" was not provided in the 2009 City Budget for "water quality improvements" at Roger's Lake and that I am unable to provide any meaningful time commitment to this effort unless so directed by the City Council. Mr. Hickey asked how he could bring this issue before the City Council. I recommended that he attend tonight's Commission meeting before attending the next City Council meeting scheduled on March 17th, 2009. Proposed 2009 staff efforts to address weeds near the fishing pier: I have not as yet contacted the DNR regarding applying for a "2009 Permit to Destroy Aquatic Vegetation". Last years permit allowed weed harvesting "adjacent to permittee's property only, harvesting around fishing pier at Roger's Lake Park" for one season only. The DNR field representative for our area suggested that in the future the City consider chemical treatment which is a less costly control approach. If the City does wish to treat for weeds, chemical recommended by the DNR would be purchased with funds designated for "fertilizer & chemicals" in the Parks Maintenance Budget that would be applied by a Public Works employee who is certified and maintains his "chemical applicators license". Estimated cost for the chemicals should be under a few hundred dollars. Any use of City employees to apply chemicals in privately owned portions of the lake must be reviewed by the City Attorney for potential liability issues before work is ordered. Other treated ponds in Mendota Heights: - A group of nineteen homeowners in the Copperfield area have in the past hired a firm to chemically treat weeds in a nine acre pond at an estimated cost of $2,100 plus $400 for a DNR group permit ($20 per property, maximum $750 fee). - Somerset Golf course also treats for weeds - staff does not have cost data. - Roger's Lake Management Study (conservatively) estimated chemical treatment costs for properties along the east shorelines both north and south of Wagon Wheel Trail at $700 per area per treatm entlyea r (this cost may not include DNR permit fees). RECOMMENDATION: Allow Mr. Pat Hickey to address the Commission. ACTION REQUIRED: As Mr. Hickey and other residents in the area surrounding Roger's Lake plan to bring their concerns to the attention of the City Council, the Commission may wish to consider making a recommendation to Council on this issue. Attachments: 1. Email from Pat Hickey to Guy Kullander dated 2-25-09 2. Email from Pat Hickey to Mendakota Country Club 3. Letter from Pat Hickey to residents in Rogers Lake area 4. Letter from Pat Hickey to City Council dated July 15, 2008 5. Council memo dated July 29, 2008 6. Council minutes from August 5, 2008 7. Council memo from Sue McDermott dated January 2, 2007 8. Council minutes from January 2, 2007 9. Portion of `Rogers Lake Report" - Summary Lake Management - 2006 Page 1 of 2 Guy Kullander From: Pat Hickey [phickey@printgroupglobal.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:59 PM To: Guy Kullander Cc: John _Huber@cpr.ca; sandrakrebsbach@hotmai1.com; mjdjsnow@comcast.net; 'Doug Hennes' Subject: FW: Improving Lake Rogers Attachments: image001.jpg Hi Guy, Hope all goes well! I'm certain that you will be hearing from others around Lake Rogers in the next few days as we continue with our overall community desire to bring this lake back into the realm of recreational use by better controlling the weeds, fungus and mold that seemingly plagues this body of water year after year. I wanted to make you aware that I have also asked for assistance from Mendakota CC as you will see from the letter below. Let me know what else I can be doing to ensure that we do all possible to address the issues this year prior to the spring thaw and that the homeowners/property owners have a solid understanding of what they can do hand-in-hand with the City of Mendota Heights, the DNR, MnDOT and any other organizations to see better results this year than have been seen in past years. As many of the residents have said, "This just keeps going on and on... let's get something done." I know we have your support and look forward to you letting us know what it is we must do to "get something done." Thank you Guy. Sincerely, Pat Cc: City Council From: Pat Hickey [mailto:phickey@printgroupglobal.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:15 PM To: 'bobm@mendakotacc.com' Cc: 'stevew@mendakotacc.com' Subject: Improving Lake Rogers :•• In the past decade both the City of Mendota Heights and residents surrounding Lake Rogers have worked toward creating an environment that would be beneficial to the health of the lake. Indeed local lake property owners and the city contributed funds two years ago to have our lake examined by an outside resource and ensure us of its health Additionally, the annual study done by Saint Thomas Academy again confirmed year -over -year water improvements. Many residents have set up natural barriers to stifle run-off from fertilizers, while the City of Mendota Heights has developed a "naturalized area" in the Rogers Lake Park. Both private and public monies have been used to aerate the lake in the winter, build a fishing pier and expand the conduit between the 2/26/2009 Pat Cc: City Council From: Pat Hickey[mailto:phickey@printgroupglobal.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 1:15 PM To: 'bobm@mendakotacc.com' Cc: 'stevew@mendakotacc.com' Subject: Improving Lake Rogers In the past decade both the City of Mendota Heights and residents surrounding Lake Rogers have worked toward creating an environment that would be beneficial to the health of the lake. Indeed local lake property owners and the city contributed funds two years ago to have our lake examined by an outside resource and ensure us of its health Additionally, the annual study done by Saint Thomas Academy again confirmed year -over -year water improvements. Many residents have set up natural barriers to stifle run-off from fertilizers, while the City of Mendota Heights has developed a "naturalized area" in the Rogers Lake Park. Both private and public monies have been used to aerate the lake in the winter, build a fishing pier and expand the conduit between the southern and northern areas of the lake which connect under Wagon Wheel Trail. The DNR continues to stock our lake with fish such as Walleye, Bass and Northerns. Currently Lake Rogers is considered a recreational use lake by the Department of Natural Resources. Unfortunately, our lake continues to be plagued by weeds, mold and scum — as I'm certain you witnessed from your vantage point at Mendakota. So much so that kayaks and rowboats actually get "stuck" on the weed -filled water and that last year we had to "harvest" the weeds by our pier in order to have a community fishing contest. All-in-all, we have made great strides! But now is the time to take greater strides and plan to go even further in keeping Lake Rogers one that can be the pride of a community. We need to address the ongoing weed, mold and scum issues. Therefore, in light of the continuing and reoccurring weed issues severely limiting recreational use of Lake Rogers, we have respectfully requested the City Council of Mendota Heights in July of 2008 to work with representatives of the private property owners surrounding Lake Rogers, the DNR and appropriate representatives of the City and MnDOT to address this issue on both a short and long term basis beginning now, in the Spring of 2009. In your position as Course Superintendent, we would welcome your support and ideas as to what may be done to accomplish our goal of having a recreational lake again truly exist. Would you be willing to help? Let me know. I can be reached at the numbers below. Sincerely, Pat February 25, 2009 Hello Neighbors! weCouncil before the City Council and presented the inform aro ere owners to Generally Last July I w ortive of working with the lakesho p ty speaking the Council is supe directed Guy Kullander to work with the neighbors, the help restore Lake Rogers. They to find a resolution. I believe, at this DNR and the appropriate weed control company property owners point, Guy is waiting to hear the interest level of lakeshore prop Y , or that to happen, I believe it will be necessaryanoall each of us actionsd in would In order fthat in the statement that reflects our desire for the City to s Conte area from around the pier center on cleaning the weeds, etc rather than j the hope would be it park area. While there may be some charge to the homeowners, is less expensive to do everything at one time that to ha Date the weeds scum ve each homeowner and odor. DNR permit and attempt his/her own procedure to alleviate The best way to achieve this is to contact: with him directly or ® Guy Kullander directly at 651-452-1850 and either speaking leaving a voice mail OR sending him an email at requesting g action (I have enclosed one ® OR sending him a signed below) In an case, would you be so kind as to let me know wan email att action have taken? a c �You I Y can either give me a call at 651-686-8448 or drop me . Thanks! Here's looking forward to having a clean AND CLEAR Beautiful Lake Rogers starting this year! , ' rely, Pat Hickey 2303 Swan Drive j MAR A2 4UU3 A Request to the City Council of Mendota Heights for continuing to improve the healthy recreational use of Lake Rogers. Submitted July 95, 2008 In the past decade both the City of Mendota Heights and residents surrounding Lake Rogers have worked toward creating an environment that would be beneficial to the health of the lake. Indeed local lake property owners and the city contributed funds this past year to have our lake examined by an outside resource and ensure us of its health Additionally, the annual study done by Saint Thomas Academy again confirmed year - over -year water improvement& Many residents have set up natural barriers to stifle run-off, while the City of Mendota Heights has developed a "naturalized area" in the Rogers Lake Park. Both private and public monies have been used to aerate the lake in the winter, build a fishing pier and expand the conduit between the southern and northern areas of the lake which connect under Wagon Wheel Trail. The DNR continues to stock our lake tvith fish such as Walleye, Bass and Northems. Currently Lake Rogers is considered a recreational use lake by the Department of Natural Resources. Unfortunately, our lake continues to be plagued by weeds. So much so that kayaks and rowboats actually get "stuck" on the weed -filled water and that we have to harvest the weeds by our pier in order to have a community fishing contest. All-in-all, we have made great strides! But now is the time to take greater strides and plan to go even further in keeping Lake Rogers one that can be the pride of a community. We need to address the ongoing weed issue. Therefore, in light of the continuing and reoccurring weed issues severely limiting recreational use of Lake Rogers, we respectfully request the City Council of Mendota Heights to immediately work with representatives of the private property owners surrounding Lake Rogers, the DNR and appropriate representatives of the City and MnDCT that will address this issue ori both a short and long term basis beginning now, in the Spring of 2009. MC EIVED MAR � ZUUj 13Y: City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM July 29, 2008 Memo to: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: Roger's Lake Water Quality & Weed Control BACKGROUND: At the July 15th City Council meeting control of weeds in Roger's Lake was raised by lake residents who had observed limited weed harvesting near the park fishing pier... Staff had been made aware of thick weed conditions near the fishing pier in Roger's Lake Park by a DNR employee. He commented that the weeds were so thick that only still line fishing from the pier was possible. As the City sponsored "Cliff Timm Memorial Fishing Derby" was approaching, staff contracted with a local lake weed harvesting firm to remove weeds near the dock and shore line where Fishing Derby activities would take place. Some residents with lake shore frontage contacted City Hall interested in future weed control in the lake. In November 2006 the City Council received a "Lake Management Plan for Roger's Lake" that addressed various issues, including weed control options (see attached (partial) report). DISCUSSION: I have been contacted by the same DNR employee, who observed the City sponsored fishing derby on July 16th and commented that the weed harvesting was successful and that he and his children enjoyed the event. He also offered to meet with City staff this fall/winter to plan and financially support with DNR grant money the use of chemicals in spring 2009 to control excessive weed growth in the fishing pier area. Chemical treatment(s) at the correct time of year is less expensive than mechanical harvesting. If future mechanical harvesting is anticipated, the City must consider construction of launch ramp into the lake for harvesting equipment. RECOMMENDATION: Authorize staff to coordinate with the DNR a spring 2009 chemical weed control treatment plan for Roger's Lake in the area of the fishing pier. City Council may wish to involve / invite residents with frontage on Roger's Lake who have indicated a desire to control weeds in the lake to meet with staff and DNR to discuss treatment or harvesting options. The cost of weed control along other portions of the lake front would be born by the benefitting land owner(s) similar to what is occurring on other water bodies (Copperfield Pond, Mendakota & Somerset Golf course ponds). ACTION REQUIRED: If the City Council wishes to accept the recommendation, include $500.00 in the 2009 City Budget as a line item in the Public Works Park Maintenance portion of the budget for "Roger's Lake Weed Control". August 5, 2008 Page 2 d. Acknowledgement of the Rogers Lake Water Quality and Weed Control Report. e. Authorization for City Administrator to issue a Purchase Order for Tennis Court Maintenance. f. Authorization for City Administrator to issue a Purchase Order for Ball Field Fencing. g. Authorization for City Administrator to issue a Purchase Order for Trail Repair, Maintenance and New Construction in Friendly Hills Park/Decorah Lane h. Authorization for City Administrator to issue a Purchase Order for Street Striping and Paint Markings. i. Appointment of Andy Quinlan to the Position of Maintenance Worker I, Street Department. j. Approval of Temporary Liquor License for Holy Family Maronite Catholic Church. k. Approval of Sign Permit for Tommy Chicago's Pizzeria at 730 Main Street #100 and 101. 1. Approval of Sign Permit for 3 Kittens Needle Arts 750 Main Street #102. in. Adoption of Resolution No. 08-46, "A RESOLUTION APPOINTING 2008 PRIMARY ELECTION JUDGES." n. Adoption of Resolution No. 08-47, "A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING WORK AND APPROVAL FINAL PAYMENT FOR JOB NUMBER 200812 — COPPOCK RESIDENCE." o. Approval of the List of Contractors, dated 07/31/08. p. Approval of the List of Claims, dated 08/05/08, totaling $592,592.00. Councilmember Duggan seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Mayor Huber referred to Item d and asked Guy Kullander to speak on Rogers Lake Water Quality and Weed Control. Mr. Kullander said Staff was able to get a harvester in Rogers Lake before the fishing derby to harvest the weeds in the area of the fishing pier and the one lot where the kids do their casting contest. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 August 5, 2008 Page 3 Mr. Kullander said harvesting by this method is more expensive than a chemical treatment which can be done in early spring. The DNR representative for this area said that he has some funding and would be willing to work with the city and help fund a chemical treatment of the dock area for next year. Mr. Kullander said it is not known what the exact price is but estimates it as being $500, and most likely will be less than that. Mr. Kullander said homeowners who contacted him about having weeds along their property on Rogers Lake, were informed that the city could not fund that type of operation where it benefits only their property and permits are required on a per property frontage. The city would be able to coordinate with property owners to come together and work with the DNR. The homeowners would have to pay for any treatment in front of their property. Councilmember Krebsbach asked if the neighbors produced the Rogers Lake Report. Mr. Kullander said that was the one the city commissioned two years ago and the neighborhood group paid for 50% of the report, and the other 50% was paid by the city. Councilmember Duggan said residents on Copperfield Pond have come together to work with the DNR, and that a certain triangular portion of the pond was designated to each resident. Mr. Kullander said the DNR regulations only allow a certain portion of the pond to be treated each year, which is the reason that there must be coordination with residents. Councilmember Vitelli moved approval of the Rogers Lake Water Quality and Weed Control Report as presented. Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Councilmember Duggan referred to Item e and asked how the plastic tennis court is holding up. Mr. Kullander said it is holding up very well and CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO January 2, 2007 TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator FROM: Sue McDermott, Public Works Director SUBJECT: Presentation by Steve McComas - Rogers Lake Report BACKGROUND: During the summer of 2005 Rogers Lake experienced an over abundance of aquatic plant growth. Doug Hennes, a resident on Rogers Lake, received support from property owners to hire Steve McComas of Blue Water Science to complete lake monitoring and aquatic plant inventory. The City Council also partnered in this effort by committing $2,000 towards the monitoring and reporting. Mr. McComas will give a presentation outlining the results of the Rogers Lake monitoring. Attached to this memo is a summary of the study. City of Mendota Heights March 3, 2009 Memo to: Parks & Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: Restoration efforts at Historic Pilot Knob For Information BACKGROUND: Wiley Buck at Great River Greening, the City's consultant coordinating restoration efforts, sent me the following e-mails regarding work that is scheduled at Historic Pilot Knob in the next few months. Note that the sign dedication scheduled for June 27th is for two permanent interpretative signs that contain both English and Dakota text on each sign which were funder under a $6,000.00 grant from the Minnesota Historical Society. RECOMMENDATION: Volunteer workers are always welcome to participate in the scheduled restoration events, if interested contact Great River Greening or myself at City Offices. I usually attend all of these efforts and plan to invite all stakeholders and interested parties of the June 27th sign dedication once time of event is determined. Page 1 of 2 Guy Kullander From: Wiley Buck [wbuck@greatrivergreening.org] Sent: Monday, March 02, 2009 5:10 PM To: Guy Kullander Subject: FW: Events at Pilot Knob Guy, we have some April small group volunteer events shaping up. See below. My plan is to have the 4/22 group haul wood (the stuff GRG will cut here shortly), and then the crew will get back in to chip it and dump it strategically, and then the 4/25 group will push the mulch to the final locations — more is needed under the power lines and we can also make our oak planting mulch circles along the south edge of phase 1. How does that sound to you? (The June group will work on herbaceous invasives control. ) Regards, Wiley Buck Restoration Ecologist o. 651.665.9500 x15 c. 651.775.8759 f. 651.665.9409 35 W. Water St. St. Paul MN 55107 www.greatrivergreening.org From: Mark Turbak Sent: Monday, March 02, 2009 8:36 AM To: Wiley Buck; Todd Rexine Cc: Deborah Karasov; Robert Viking; Wayne Ostlie Subject: Events at Pilot Knob Hello friends! As I type this I must tell you that I'm very excited about tomorrow's Opps meeting. We have some really great stuff to talk about. Just so we don't get too bogged down tomorrow in discussing Pilot Knob, I did want to again reiterate what is going to happen there over the course of April, May, and June. April 22nd, 1 pm-4pm — Corporate Earth Day Event — We'll have a corporate group at Pilot Knob performing brush hauling and general site maintenance. 20-25 volunteers total. CH2M Hill will be providing some volunteers to the project. Number to be determined. We are still working to recruit the remainder of volunteers for the site. I am 100% confident that we will have a full volunteer crew at the site on the 22nd. I do want to acknowledge Mary Hammes for her excellent work in cultivating a relationship with CH2M Hill that hopefully prove to be a fruitful one for Greening. April 25th, 9am-12pm — Bates College Alumni Group —Charlie Zelle and his colleagues from Bates College Alumni Association will be at the site mulching at key areas. 3/3/2009 Page 2 of 2 June 27th, Time: TBD — We will have the sign dedication ceremony at the site. We'll discuss initial logistics tomorrow. I also plan on following up with NWA to determine their interest in participating. If they want to pass on the opportunity, again I'm sure we'll have no problem finding another group. I know NWA was looking to do something earlier in the year. Thanks as always everyone!! If you have any initial questions prior to tomorrows meeting, do let me know. Sincerely, Mark Turbak Volunteer Programs Manager Great River Greening 35 W Water St #201 Saint Paul MN 55107 Tel 651 665.9500 x11 Fax 651 651.9409 restoring the land, renewing communities www greatrivergreeninq.orq 3/3/2009 City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM <), October 2, 2008 Memo to: Mayor, City Council and City Administrator From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Manager Subject: Approve Sign Text for Two Signs to be Installed at Historic Pilot Knob: BACKGROUND: Great River Greening applied for and received a $6,000.00 grant from the State Historic Preservation Office to place two historical markers /signs to help visitors interpret the importance of the Historic Pilot Knob area. This grant requires that each sign contain no more then 250 words, half in English and half in the language of the Dakota. DISCUSSION: The early drafts of the text to be displayed on the signs exceed 400 words and had to be reduced and edited by Great River Greening, with help from the Pilot Knob Preservation Association, to meet grant guidelines. Attached are the final signs, prepared by Great River Greening, that have been approval by the State Historic Preservation Office, Bruce White, and Pilot Knob Preservation Association. The signs should be "permanently" installed at Pilot Knob following Council approval and fabrication. Once construction work (removal asphalt roadway, installation of gravel trails and parking area, and development of several landscaped overlooks) is completed in 2009 the signs will be moved to their final location at one of the completed overlooks. RECOMMENDATION: Review the images and text on both signs - graphics attached. ACTION REQUIRED: If the City Council so desires to approve the two signs as presented and allow installation at Historic Pilot Knob, authorize the City Administrator to execute, on behalf of the City of Mendota Heights, any documents required for this effort to proceed. Rogers Lake Questions and Answers Water Quality Is Rogers Lake an impaired water? No, not at this time based on limited sampling in 2006. What is the best water quality that can be expected for Rogers Lake? A lake "model" has been used to predict the what the water quality of Rogers Lake could be under "ideal' conditions. It is predicted that in South Rogers, water clarity could be slightly better and nutrient concentrations could be lower. Water quality in North Rogers is better than predicted. Aquatic Plants What is the 2006 status of aquatic plants? Plants are doing well in both lakes. Native species dominate. No Eurasian watermilfoil was found in either lake. Why was plant growth in South Rogers so extreme in 2005? Special conditions produced the right combination of sunlight, snow cover, temperature, and other factors to stimulate plant growth. Fortunately, elodea, the plant that had extreme growth, does not produce nuisance conditions every year. In 2006, elodea was present, but was not a major nuisance. What can be expected in the future? If 2006 is used as a benchmark year, then normal fluctuations will result in more growth some years and less growth in other years. If elodea or some other plant species occur in a nuisance condition, harvesting could be considered. A typical harvesting sequence is shown on the next page. Other Topics What about the fish? The fish community is in fair shape. Sunfish are common and northern pike are available. The stocking of channel catfish should help control stunted bluegills and indirectly help water quality. Is the watershed a factor? Yes. Fortunately, the watershed is relatively small and therefore the amount of nutrients delivered to the lake from runoff should be moderate. Both lakes have the potential to sustain good water quality. Is the golf course impacting the lake? It appears the golf course is not adversely impacting Rogers Lake. The north basin of Rogers Lake actually has a lower phosphorus concentration than the south basin. The golf course pond that feeds into the north basin is aerated which may help maintain good water quality. Rogers Lake Management Plan for 2006 16 Lake Management Ideas (what can a lake resident do?) 1. Watershed projects The drainage area to Rogers Lake totals about 333 acres (a football field is about one acre in size). The City of Mendota Heights has the primary responsibility for managing water quantity (flooding concerns) and runoff water quality. The City has spent millions of dollars on the watershed infrastructure and addresses major watershed projects. However, individual residents can still actively participate in watershed protection activities. 2. Shoreland protection and enhancement (landscaping projects) Rogers Lake has stretches of natural shoreline conditions but vegetative buffers and natural conditions could be improved along some of the developed parcels. The challenge is to protect the existing natural conditions and to enhance shorelands that lack native vegetative buffers. A volunteer lakescaping program could be implemented. Working with the City, a Rogers Lake Shoreland model describing how to design, install, and maintain a natural shoreland could be set up. Results can be published in a lake resident's newsletter. 3. Aquatic plant projects Based on the aquatic plant survey results from 2006, coontail and northern watermilfoil, both native aquatic plants, may produce some navigational restrictions in Rogers Lake. In South Rogers, along the eastern shoreline of the lake, northern watermilfoil grows to the water surface and may hinder boating activities. If plant management is considered, a mechanical harvester is recommended to work along the eastern shoreline in South Rogers Lake. An advantage of a mechanical harvester is it will pick up the plant material. A mechanical harvester could be contracted to create navigational channels to allow boating and fishing. Estimated cost of hiring the harvester for a single day is about $1,000. A mechanical harvester could be used to create cruising lanes through several areas of dense growth in Rogers Lake Rogers Lake Management Plan for 2006 18 Nuisance Plant control with herbicides are also an option. Costs would total about $700 for the area along the eastern shoreline of South Rogers. Herbicides can control excessive aquatic plant growth. A third option is for the lake residents to remove excessive aquatic plant growth themselves. Up to 2,500 square feet of plants can be cut or raked out of the lake without a permit. Removal of aquatic plants by hand is a project that lake residents can do. Rogers Lake Management Plan for 2006 19 4. Fish Management The MnDNR takes an active role in managing and monitoring fish in Rogers Lake. The stocking of channel catfish should help to keep the bluegill and bullhead community in check because channel catfish are predators on bluegills and black bullheads. 5. Ongoing education program A neighborhood newsletter could be an ongoing instrument to provide lake protection information for residents. Abundant material is available from the MnDNR on the internet and from a variety of books, including the book "Lake and Pond Management Guidebook" written by Steve McComas. This material can be inserted into newsletters. A variety of educational opportunities are available that go beyond newsletter articles. 6. Lake monitoring program Ongoing lake testing should include taking Secchi disk readings once per month from May through September. Sampling twice per month would be better. An aquatic plant survey should be conducted every three to four years. The level of effort for a monitoring program depends on the availability of volunteers and funding levels. In addition, winter dissolved oxygen levels could be collected to check for potential winterkill conditions caused by a lack of dissolved oxygen. The MnDNR may conduct the winter dissolved oxygen readings if they are asked. It is helpful that St. Thomas Academy is evaluating the lake and they should be supplied a Secchi disc so they can take water transparency readings as well. Rogers Lake Management Plan for 2006 20 January 2, 2007 Page 4 ROGERS LAKE REPORT During the summer of 2005, Rogers Lake experienced an overabundance of aquatic plant growth. Doug Hennes, a resident on Rogers Lake, received support from property owners to hire Steve McComas of Blue Water Science to complete lake monitoring and aquatic plant inventory. The City Council also partnered in this effort by committing $2,000 towards the monitoring and reporting. Mr. McComas gave a presentation on his findings and made the following recommendations on plant management: If plant management is considered, a mechanical harvester is recommended because it will pick up the plant material. This material is then moved to a nearby location for drying and further disposal. A mechanical harvester could be contracted to create navigational channels to allow boating and fishing. The estimated cost of hiring the harvester for a single day is about $1,000. Blue Water Science would be able to provide this service. Plant control with herbicides would cost about $700 for the area along the eastern shoreline of South Rogers. Lake residents are allowed to remove excessive aquatic plant growth themselves. Up to 2,500 square feet of plants can be cut or raked out of the lake without a permit. LILYDALE EAW Councilmember Duggan gave a presentation regarding concerns, comments and questions that he identified in going through the EAW. Councilmember Duggan's comments included (but are not limited to) needing more back-up documentation for several claims made, questions on the status of project approvals, and ensuring that measures to protect the bluff and control storm water are implemented. Councilmember Krebsbach said she is concerned about the bluff and that the residents of Mendota Heights have worked hard to protect the bluff. Councilmember Krebsbach said Lilydale has been a much more urban style development which started in the 1970's and is a beautiful city, but she thinks that the three communities are at a very pivotal point where the bluff will either be protected or become an urban area. Councilmember Krebsbach said she is concerned that if Lilydale and Mendota both keep developing the bluff areas in their communities, then perhaps Mendota Heights is holding their residents to higher standards than anyone else Rogers Lake Report MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA Summary of the Lake Management Study Field Work: 2006 Rogers Lake Management Program Formulated Natural Conditions Rated as Fair AQUATIC PLANT PROJECTS COULD BE CONSIDERED Rogers Lake is a 99 acre glacial lake in the City of Mendota Heights in Dakota County, Minnesota. It has a north and south basin divided by Wagon Wheel Road. The south basin is the larger of the two with a surface area of about 68 acres and has a maximum depth of about 8 feet. The north basin has an area of about 31 acres and has maximum depth of 4 feet. The City of Mendota Heights in conjunction with residents of Rogers Lake authorized an aquatic evaluation of Rogers Lake in 2006. The objectives of the aquatic evaluation were to characterize the water chemistry, the distribution of aquatic plants and summarize the fish community in Rogers Lake and then prepare lake management ideas. Special attention was given to the status of aquatic plants. Aquatic plant growth has been observed to be abundant at times and this was the case in 2005, especially along the eastern shore of the south basin. One of the objectives of this report was to evaluate aquatic plant conditions. South Rogers Lake, Mendota Heights, Minnesota Water clarity was good in both lake basins over the summer of 2006. Elevated nutrient levels, as measured by phosphorus, can cause algae blooms. Phosphorus levels in both basins were moderate. South Rogers had higher phosphorus concentrations than North Rogers. The extreme aquatic plant growth observed in South Rogers in 2005 was not observed in 2006. In fact, the 2005 nuisance plant species, elodea, was barely present in 2006. Coontail, another native plant, was more common. It's typical for elodea to This special newsletter was prepared by Blue Water Science, St. Paul, Minnesota and is part of a lake management program conducted on Rogers Lake. The program was funded by the City of Mendota Heights and the Rogers Lake Residents. produce an occasional growth spurt, but it rarley sustains long term problem growth. Rogers Lake Statistics Rogers Lake Lake size (acre): ............... Maximum depth (ft)(South Basin): Watershed area (acre): ......... (not including the lake) Watershed: Lake surface ratio ... Clarity in 2006 (ft)(South Basin): . Lake phosphorus in 2006 (parts per billion)(South Basin) ... 99 8.0 333 3.4 4.1 44 Rogers Lake Summary of the Lake Management Study Summary of Lake and Watershed Conditions Geology and Soils Rogers Lake is a glacial lake formed during the last retreat of a glacial lobe starting about 10,000 years ago. The soils deposited by the glacier are primarily sands and loamy sands. Watershed Characteristics The watershed area draining to Rogers (not including the lake) is 333 acres. Land use is primarily residential combined with parkland to the south and a golf course on the north end. Water Inflows and Outflows The water inflow to Rogers is from temporary streams and groundwater springs. The outflow is at the north end of the south basin of Rogers Lake. Lake Clarity Lake water clarity in Rogers Lake is fair with a summer average around 3.8 feet for North Rogers and 4.4 feet for South Rogers. The watershed drainage area to Rogers Lake is about 333 acres and is outlined in red (source: Bonestroo and Associates, 2006). 2 Lake Nutrients Phosphorus concentrations in Rogers Lake are similar to other lakes in the Central Hardwood Forest ecoregion. A growing season phosphorus average for 2006 for South Rogers Lake is 60 ppb and for North Rogers it is 28 ppb. A predicted phosphorus concentration using ecoregion values is higher at about 40 ppb for South Rogers and 57 ppb for North Rogers. Lake Algae Rogers Lake has algae species that are common to lakes in this part of the state. Lake Aquatic Plants There is good coverage of submerged aquatic plants covering nearly 100% of the lake bottom. Plants are beneficial as a filter for nutrients and as fish and wildlife habitat. Aquatic plant diversity is fair with 9 submerged or floatingleaf plant species identified in Rogers Lake. What is a watershed? A watershed is the land area around the lake that captures rainfall and where all the drainage and runoff goes into the lake. It is also called a drainage basin. If the watershed has pollution sources, then the pollution will be carried into the lake with runoff. It is important to reduce the source of pollution in the watershed because this in turn will reduce the amount of pollution that gets into the lake. Rogers Lake Summary of the Lake Management Study Lake Assessment Water quality of Rogers Lake is close to being within range of "unimpacted" lakes found in the Central Hardwood Forest Ecoregion. Water quality parameters consisted of transparency readings, phosphorus, and chlorophyll concentrations. Lake water quality in Rogers is about what would be expected based on it's watershed size and the ecoregion setting. Lake management efforts should be directed to protect the existing good water quality. Two species of native aquatic plants present some navigational problems on the east side of the south basin of Rogers Lake. Ecoregions of Minnesota 3 Rogers Lake is located in the North Central Hardwood Forest Ecoregion. Lakes in this ecoergion have water clarity between 5 - 8 feet. Cep Eo.%&o R4,da�Ve4ey M N.,th—Ld —d F...0 — North Cay 1 FWdw Foroslu i4. DdtftssA— W-b— Com Bolt Pmiu r:_;a Nodhvh GtftWM Plalhs Aquatic Plants Can Grow to Nuisance Conditions in Rogers Lal._ An aquatic plant survey was conducted in Rogers Lake on August 31, 2006. Rogers Lake is approximately 99 acres in size with a maximum depth of about 8 feet. In South Rogers Lake, coontail was the most common plant observed during the plant survey that sampled 50 sites. A total of six submerged plant species were observed in this survey. Aquatic plant growth was found throughout the entire lake. The maximum depth that plants grew to was 8 feet. In North Rogers Lake, coontail was the most common plant observed during the plant survey that sampled 21 sites. A total of nine plant species were observed in this survey. Plants were found growing at all sample sites. The maximum depth that plants grew to was 3 feet. The sampling grid pattern for the aquatic plant survey is shown above. Coontail showed up at 48 of the 50 sample sites in South Rogers and is the most common plant in the lake. Rogers Lake Summary of the Lake Management Study 5 Recommended Lake Management Projects 1. Watershed projects The drainage area to Rogers Lake totals about 333 acres (a football field is about one acre in size). The City of Mendota Heights has the primary responsibility for managing water quantity (flooding concerns) and runoff water quality The City has spent millions on the watershed infrastructure. However, individual residents can still actively participate in lake protection activities (please see #2). 2. Shoreland protection and enhancement (landscaping projects) Rogers Lake has stretches of natural shoreline conditions but vegetative buffers and natural conditions could be improved along some of the developed parcels. The challenge is to protect the existing natural conditions and to enhance shorelands that lack native vegetative buffers. A volunteer lakescaping program could be implemented. Working with the City, a Rogers Lake Shoreland model describing how to design, install, and maintain a natural shoreland could be set-up. Then results could be published in a lake resident's newsletter. 3. Aquatic plant projects Based on the aquatic plant survey results from 2006, coontail and northern watermilfoil, both native aquatic plants, may produce some navigational restrictions in Rogers Lake. In South Rogers, along the eastern shoreline of the lake, aquatic plants may grow to the water surface and may hinder boating activities. If plant management is considered, a mechanical harvester is recommended because it will pick up the plant material. A mechanical harvester could be contracted to create navigational channels to allow boating and fishing. Estimated cost of hiring the harvester for a single day is about $1,000. Plant control with herbicides are also an option. Costs would total about $700 for the area along the eastern shoreline of South Rogers. A third option is for the lake residents to remove excessive aquatic plant growth themselves. Up to 2,500 square feet of plants can be cut or raked out of the lake without a permit. 4. Fish Management The MnDNR takes an active role in managing and monitoring fish in Rogers Lake. The stocking of channel catfish should help to keep the bluegill and bullhead community in check because ............ jj pu`HFEDNaR�ESfIh'G ��� z_ .fU Q'■ Int N71 1 fA9 channel catfish are predators on bluegills and black bullheads. 5. Ongoing education program The Lake Association's newsletter could be an ongoing instrument to provide lake protection information. Abundant material is available from the MnDNR on the internet and from a variety of books, including the book "Lake and Pond Management Guidebook" written by Steve McComas. This material can be inserted into newsletters. A variety of educational opportunities are available that go beyond newsletter articles. 6. Watershed and lake monitoring program Ongoing lake testing should include: Secchi disk, total phosphorus, and chlorophyll a. Testing once per month from May through September is adequate to characterize lake conditions. Sampling twice per month would be better. An aquatic plant survey should be conducted every three to four years. The level of effort for a monitoring program depends on the availability of volunteers and funding levels. In addition, winter dissolved oxygen levels could be collected to check for potential winterkill conditions caused by a lack of dissolved oxygen. The MnDNR may conduct the winter dissolved oxygen readings if they are asked. A mechanical harvester could be used to create cruising lanes through several areas of dense growth in Rogers Lake. Rogers Lake Status Rogers Lake is located in an ecoregion called the North Central Hardwood Forest Ecoregion (Figure 11). A typical range of lake values for "unimpacted" lakes in that ecoregion is shown in Table 7, column 3. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has set up nutrient criteria for lakes that are located in that ecoregion (Table 7), columns 1 and 2. Rogers Lake is classified as a shallow lake, so the impaired lake criteria of interest are in Table 7, column 2. In an effort to understand what is the best lake water quality that can reasonably be expected, lake calculations (referred to as "models") were made and results are shown in column 4. Thus the lake status can be summarized based on these criteria and is listed below. Impaired Lake Status: both lakes are unimpaired at this time (comparing column 2 to column 5) Ecoregion Values: Both lakes are within ecoregion criteria for algae and North Rogers is within range for phosphorus. South Rogers has higher phosphorus levels than other lakes in the Central Hardwood Ecoregion (comparing column 3 to column 5). Next a lake model was run that takes into account the size of the watershed and the depth of the lake. It appears South Rogers could attain a lower phosphorus concentration and slightly better water clarity. Conditions in North Rogers are better than predicted (comparing column 4 to column 5). Table 7. Lake criteria and existing water quality conditions for Rogers Lake. Rogers Lake Management Plan for 2006 Figure 11. Rogers Lake is considered to be in the North Central Hardwood Forest Ecoregion (location shown with a star). 15 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Deep Lake Shallow North Predicted Ecoregion 2006 Existing Values (MPCA Lake Central Values (based on impaired (MPCA Hardwood watershed size using a criteria) impaired Forest MnLEAP Lake Model) South North South North criteria) Ecoregion Values Rogers Rogers Rogers Rogers Secchi Disc (ft & m) <4.6 ft <3.3 ft 4.9-10.5ft 5.3 ft 4.0 ft 4.4 ft 3.8+ ft (water clarity) (1.4 m) (1.0 m) (1.5- 3.2 m) (1.6 m) (1.2 m) (1.3 m) (1.2 m) Total Phosphorus >40 b pp >60 b pp 23 - 50 b pp 40 b pp 57 b pp 60 ppb 28 ppb (fertilizer nutrient) Chlorophyll a >14 ppb >20 ppb 5 - 22 ppb 14 ppb 24 ppb 10 ppb 4 ppb (measure of algae) Rogers Lake Management Plan for 2006 Figure 11. Rogers Lake is considered to be in the North Central Hardwood Forest Ecoregion (location shown with a star). 15 Page 4 of 4 5/6/2008 \ ƒ _ % t 2� Cl)e ) 7 a '» ) .0 .cu ƒ / 3 ) ƒ / < �'7 E ® \ j 3 =- '«20\07 7 c e 222 -Iz \ 2 E b U) L) LU k : _0 - n o CIO / k CL g 0 \ •E 2= » U 3 4 §.g ° •E w 0 ? ��0 / 2 g G A 0 -- m 2 t I 3 _ e5k� \ E22 @ =.g 2 k 2 E 2 CD- =-oa m CO 3 E @ a e= - § / 0 0 2 c cn -r-/ 0 -0 f ± ƒ r-7) 6 $ k.7.? / / .E =@w ƒ Ek40 ƒ £ ? m m = / ± o _ ƒ / ° / c o / t .4 ƒ .g c o ) o 0 ./ .� \ o? m o) m o/ \ ° /R= �\ E § ® \ Co e & f c 0 / ° g a �kf \� 5 k & \ §3\? \ \ ) �'7 E ® c =- '«20\07 \ (D U) L) LU 2 � / 2 ƒ ) E ® / § 2 / •E 2= » U 3 4 §.g ° •E w 0 ? k R Q) /E='6 0 122,G� _ « E o � @ =.g 2 k 2 E /±° m w] 2 -0 r- E 6 m m 0- I - rz 0 -0 -Cm- 2 k.7.? � / f ƒ § \ ƒ k M g= 2/ 2 E a 5@ .4�e ?/ eo o� o\ f ° 7- f E § ® f \ e -f-2 0 / ° \ / * 5 k & \ 2 ® / = Q J 2 e 0 ) M- 0 -LL CU t-- 62// _ @ CL o u E 4 g 2° [ \ o . * ` I m � c E s s/ 4 § 0 6\ % f 2%/ƒm/��§�2 o 6 7 J ).g E eƒ ± o m o = o e 2 CU \ \ % ® £ / e m@ k\% o± 2 E/ 2 tƒ\ --r- c E ) ±t 4 §\ 10- to &•g r.3, e / / / 0 0 0 o.E \ E 2 0 'E ee = 0)– CL \ o2 V) ® o 0 0 E ° m $ /k/�ƒd »= o 0 6 00 o o " > ƒ ƒ § Q) > Co 7 m % 3 f /E 6¢2 m o m 3 e E E E n n 2 \_ -r- (D » o 2 ® 0 f % 6 = 2 co / – §f 2 E J o 2 / % ® E \ 0E c &4 7 m cm o- /� 00 –moU O $2 �� ƒ > o /§kƒ®\ e @ c ® – c w 2 8 2 m % ° F�22 662%f 7 Em >, ƒ®of § E222?� 2 ° R M w k\�/2 Rm 2 m 0 0 = _ 0 E & a � / e / W 0 a) m o& E m m. 2 0k��� o � \ƒ/Gc/f o O .c: 222250 o e 0 0 7•� « EE * m 5 £ e E o G�/6§ƒ/ E m – 4- e 0% 2° 2 2 c E 0 0 – = — % 2 k \ m \ k M m 0 / \ % O E E k U) LO / 0 \ \ q -0 _ ¥ e -E o § m D ._ c 's O » \e / « City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM March 5, 2009 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: Update / Review 2004 Plan "Future Trial Options" BACKGROUND: At last months meeting the Commission directed staff to update the Commission regarding construction of new trail segments in recent years as compared to the "Future Options for Trail Improvements" map presented to the Commission in February 2004. The City Council and Parks Commission last discussed future trail improvements at a Joint Workshop held on April 13th, 2004 (Item #6, on attached Workshop coverpage). DISCUSSION: I have updated (comments are in italics) my memo of February 4, 2004 to reflect new trail construction or development opportunities in the past five years. The future trail options map is the same, but I have attached the most recent update of the City's trail system dated June 27, 2008. RECOMMENDATION: Review the materials presented. City of Mendota Heights FEBRUARY 12, 2004 Joint Workshop - April 13th, 2004 City Council / Parks & Recreation Commission_ (Rescheduled from March 91h, 2004) BACKGROUND MATERIALS 1. City Ordinance Establishing a Parks and Recreation Commission a. Section 2-2-6: Powers and Duties 2. Mendota Heights Comprehensive Plan 2002 a. Mendota Heights Vision Statement - pgs 1 to 3 b. Natural & Open Spaces - pg 7 C. Environmental Features - pg 12 d. Demographic Profiles - pgs 19, 22, 26, 27, & 28 e. Park Plan - pgs 71 thru 79 3. Park Dedication Fee Policy a. Resolution No. 03-89 (Raising fee to $2,700.00 per dwelling unit) 4. Estimates of Future Trail and Playground Maintenance/Replacement Costs a. Rehabilitate 21 miles of trails - 4 year plan - $165,000.00 b. Replace/rehabilitate playground structures and components at eleven parks during next ten years - Estimated cost $500,000.00 5. Mendota Heights Park and Recreation Facility Needs Study - 1985 a. Chapter IV "Goals and Policies" - pgs 58 thru 66 1. Overall Goal - pg 58 2. Acquisition and Development Priorities - pg 63 3. Roles and Relationships with other agencies - pg 63 b. Chapter V "Community Trails" - pgs 67 thru 76 1. Purpose - pg 67 2. Goals - pg 70 C. Park & Recreation Survey Responses - June 1985 6. Options for future Trail Routes or Segments a. Complementation of trail improvement projects previously discussed or considered by the Commission. b. City Park and Trail map illustrating location of proposed trail segments Compiled by Guy Kullander City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM February 4, 2004 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission /` . ;9 �ii j 17 From: Guy Kullander, Parks Project Manager ; Subject: Future Options for Trail Improvements Background: The existing trail system contains approximately twenty-one miles of paved trails, predominately off-street and constructed to a width of eight feet. The last Commission workshop related to future trail projects was in January 1996. Discussion: The Commission expressed a desire to prepare a long-range plan to expand the trial system by providing "missing -links" within the existing system and to look for opportunities to provide new trails, when land development occurred, or when roadway improvements by other governmental units provided opportunities to include trails within their project. Attached is a copy of the City's existing park and trail system to which I have highlighted (in yellow) various trail improvements that have been discussed during the past several years. Recommendation: Review the information provided. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS March 5, 2009 (Original memo dated February 2004) Prepared by: Guy Kullander, Parks Project Manager Options for Future Trail Improvements: (Refer to attached map for locations) Note: Updates to original information in "bold- italics"- March 5, 2009 A. Delaware Ave. (Huber Drive south to 1-494/City of Eagan) Construct off-street trail in conjunction with future Dakota County upgrade of County Road 63/Delaware Ave. Additional right-of-way must be acquired. Cost of trail could be funded as part of the County project. B. Delaware Ave. (Huber Drive north to Hwy. 110) The City funded a widening of the shoulder (west side -4 feet) with the County funding the east (Sunfish Lake) side. Off-street trail has been requested. Trail could be included with a future roadway upgrade/improvement by Dakota County funded by the County. Additional right-of-way required. C. Delaware Ave. (Hwy. 110 north to Marie Ave.) An off-street trail section exists from Hwy 110 to frontage road and a widened shoulder (4 ft to 8 ft wide) extends to Marie. A separated trail is desirable to better separate trail users from the traffic on Delaware. If the County were to upgrade this section of County Road 63 a separated trail would probably be included. Dakota County project to widen Delaware from Hwy 110 to Marie Avenue is scheduled for construction in 2010 — off street trail included D. Warrior Drive (Hwy 110 frontage road north to existing trail) The existing trail from Marie Avenue south was constructed by the School District to provide walking access to Sibley High School grounds. Due to the amount of traffic and parking on Warrior a separated trail from Hwy 110 Frontage Road should be considered for safety. E. Dodd Road (North of Town Center to Marie Ave.) Trails to be constructed as part of the Town Center development end at the northern boundary of the project area. An existing six foot widen shoulder, on Dodd, is now used by bikes and pedestrians. A separated off-street trail would be safer, especially for the groups of high school joggers that use the trail. * Trail from Hwy110 to Market Street reconstructed as part of NURT trail construction. * Trail from Market Street to Marie Avenue: a) Design plans finished; b) easements to be acquired in 2009; c) construction may be in 2009 or 2010; d) trail on west side of Dodd Road —Hwy 110 to Ridge Place — added to project; e) funded from MSA funds. F. Dodd Road (1-494 north to Mendakota Park) Dodd Road/S.T.Hwy 149 is heavily used. Existing shoulder areas from Mendakota Park to Wagon Wheel Trail/Decorah Lane is from one to three feet wide. South of Wagon Wheel to 1-494 the shoulders average six feet in width. A separated trail would provide a safer facility from pedestrians/bikes. G. Wagon Wheel Trail (Dodd Rd. / S.T.Hwy 149 to Lexington Ave. / County Rd. 43) This low volume two-lane roadway has no shoulders or curb and gutters. Pedestrians and bikers have reported speeding as hazardous. Trail can be added when project to upgrade the existing roadway goes forward. * Roadway scheduled for reconstruction — curb, gutters, storm sewer, and trail — in 2011 H. Lexington Ave. & Wagon Wheel Trail (Mendota Heights Road to 1-35 E Bridge) The plans and specifications are almost complete on this project that is to be predominately funded from state MSA funds and Dakota County. Currently scheduled to be bid this spring and constructed during 2004. * Project complete except for portion on Wagon Wheel Trail from Lexington to bridge. Lexington Ave./ County Road 43 (Wagon Wheel Trail to S.T. Hwy 110) Lexington is a two lane roadway with no shoulders and limited right-of-way. Due to opposition from property owners along this section the Council declined to order construction of this trail section. J. Lake LeMay Trail (LeMay Lake Drive southerly to Mendota Heights Road) A trail extending south from the Augusta Shores development through property owned by Resurrection Cemetery and continuing south to Mendota Heights Road was considered a desirable route if or when development occurs in this area. * Housing development postponed until future date. K. Big Rivers Regional Trial (Hwy 13 southerly along old RR right-of-way to 1-494) The Big Rivers Regional Trail, as originally proposed, was to be extended by construction of an tunnel under Hwy 13 and then proceed south along the former railroad right-of-way to Mendota Heights Road and then continue south and across 1-494 into Eagan. This was a Dakota County project to be funded from Federal/Metro Council grant. L. Mendota Heights Road (Pilot Knob Road to S.T.Hwy 13) This segment would be a continuation of the existing trail on Mendota Heights Road and would provide a continuous trail from east to west through the City. This section was originally "left out" due to expectations of low usage. Due to completion of Big Rivers Regional Trail and overlook off Hwy 13 this link should be considered for completion. * Segment constructed with off-street trail on Northland Drive: MH Road to Pilot Knob Rd M. Pilot Knob Road (Acacia Boulevard northerly and westerly to Big Rivers Trail) This segment would be installed if / when the area north and east of Acacia Cemetery is developed. * Property purchased by City. Twenty five acres to be restored to oak savannah. Trail future trail from Acacia Blvd to Big Rivers Trail through restored areas will be gravel. N. Big Rivers Regional Trail (Scenic Overlook off Hwy 13 south to 494 River Bridge/Eagan) This segment of the regional trail will be constructed along the west side of Hwy 13 on highway right-of-way or within Fort Snelling State Park. A ramp from Hwy 13 up to and connecting with the existing trail way on the 1-494 Bridge across the river into Bloomington is part of this project. * Trail construction completed by state contractor O. City Hall (Trailway around pond/wetland north and west of City Offices) Trail would begin at City Hall and extend westerly on the north side of the pond, then south to the trail on Victoria Curve by the synagogue. Future land dedication, if/when Olin property is developed would provide most of the land needed for the trail. Remaining easements would be sought from the synagogue and two residents. P. Lexington Avenue/County Road 43 (Hwy 13 north to Douglas) Lilydale requested the City help fund this link when they were constructing their trail along Hwy. 13. The City Council declined to participate in that project. This is a very difficult segment because of the steep slope, limited right-of-way, it is a County maintained road, and there are steep rocky side slopes. To re-engineer the roadway to lessen the steep slope would be very costly. Q. Mayfield Heights link (Douglas northerly to Mayfield Heights Rd.) Residents of the Mayfield Heights area requested a trail linking their neighborhood to Douglas Road. Council did not approve a trail concept plan, requiring condemnation of easements between two unwilling residents. R. Victoria Road (Celia Rd to Celia Rd) An existing trail connects the south leg of Celia Rd. to Victoria Highlands Park. At the north leg of Celia Rd. the trail begins again and goes northerly past Country Day and down to Hwy. 13. This segment was not built due to an existing 26" gas main located in the ditch along Victoria where the trail would be located. To construct the trail the storm sewer pipe must be installed before the ditch can be filled in. When Victoria Rd is upgraded, with curb, gutters, and storm sewer a trail would be part of the project. * Current Five Year Street Improvement Plan indicates this road will be reconstructed - Curb/gutter, storm sewer, trail, etc. in 2011 S. Wentworth/Trail Road (Wentworth Ave. south along the west end of the Par 3 Golf course connecting to Valley Park / Marie AvenueTrail). Trail would provide north south access from Park Place, Cherry Hills and Wentworth area residents to Valley Park and city's southerly trail segments. Also construct east -west connection from new trail to existing trail in Valley Park. T. Wachtler Ave./Sibley Memorial Highway (Cherry Hill Rd south to Hwy. 13 then westerly to Lilydale Rd./1-35E Bridge). These two segments would connect the existing trail on Wachtler Ave. at Park Place to Hwy 13 and thence to Lilydale Rd and the Big Rivers Regional Trail. It would also provide access to the future trail to be constructed on the new 1-35E Bridge that would connect to St. Paul and trails on the north side of the river. * Most of this segment was installed when Summit housing project was completed on old Ecolab site. * Segment along Hwy 13 from Summit trail to Lilydale Road., a) design plan completed; b) easements to be acquired in 2009; c) trail construction to be completed in 2009 or 2010; d) work funded from state aid funds - as they become available. U. North Urban Regional Trail (Dodd Road to Delaware) This regional trail, to be constructed by Dakota County, is intended to provide trail access to the new Dakota County Government Center in West St. Paul. If the project proceeds construction should be completed in 2005. Part of the original project concept was to enlarge, from eight to ten feet wide, the City's existing trail through Valley Park that connects to Lilydale Rd. and the Big Rivers Regional Trail. * Construction completed on this project in 2007 — funded by Fed grant & Dakota County V. Lilydale Regional Park (Yacht Club east to Harriet Island / St. Paul) Extension/completion of the Big Rivers Regional Trail from the Pool and Yacht Club into St. Paul will be part of the development of the Lilydale Regional Park, which is a City of St. Paul Park Department project. * Extension of trail east of yacht club completed in 2007. Future segments will link Harriet Island in St. Paul W. 1-36E Bridge Reconstruction Project (Hwy 13 to Shepard Road) A pedestrian / bike trail is included with this project along with an access ramp connection down to the Big Rivers Regional Trail adjacent to Lilydale Road down to the Pool and Yacht Club. * Work completed in 2007 - trail linked across new 1-35E Bridge to St. Paul side Following segments discussed/ added to list but are not shown in yellow high -lite on the attached map. X. Emerson Avenue (Dodd Road to Delaware Avenue) On or off-street trail should be considered when street rehabilitation project for this neighborhood is discussed with affected residents. * On -street trail option selected and in place as part of street reconstruction project Y. Wentworth Avenue (Dodd Road to Delaware Avenue) Lack of shoulders and ditches makes this segment a danger for walkers and bikers. Lack of right-of-way along this roadway (County Road #8) will impact costs of any trail design options. Z. Neighborhood "stand-alone" segments not connected to existing trails have been requested by residents and discussed by the Parks Commission. * Lack of funding, low expected usage and / or neighborhood opposition has resulted in denial of several requested segments. ''a City of Mendota Heights Parks and Trails Map i `a s View Viewing S i Q�G p&��,/� G - If=• W ` I� �' — ,as1�� nc .n ua � r■, �t a �i r�r,�. a� 'Ai.n►�i as � ■r..11 11. � ` Lam'"i, "-.'J' ' i � _'••`S'�al � `io\ ca._ �.f�,'�'1��.-If•.����_..� _�lCt �� �I l��l! �,�� Gi1�1 �.�.h��.� L i � 1 --(D 't7 Club � Lake oy E4GAN Restrrrectioll Cemeiet� , Public Wo. \ Garage ST. P.<1 UL Legend ,. T' a — — — — — — Proposed North Urban Regional Trail (Dakota County) - — Proposed Lilydale Pedestrian Trail ••••-•••••• Widened Shoulders Off Street Bituminous \ Trail (6' to 8' wide) City Hall / Police / Fire / Public Works Ci City Park Land F 7 Water Mendota Heights Lilydale & Mendota Sotnet;set, Open Space Golf Course'' (private) - = Perks 1) Friendly Hills Park J� 0 J 2) Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park - 61 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park S' 9) Valley Park Soh o, 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park -ba, �...��IaTtTlf—e1- 2- E 0■�� I ' . rl • � tn 1) All trails shown within the City limits are maintained bY, 00) creivs except: nua7■i7 e m nus � .. Big Rivers Regional Trail -Dakota IN (B) Dodd R&TH 149 shoulders-Mi?,,DOT • • . mss; �� . � � �nw � i iC.��� y' �i � � �2) ("oncrete sidewalks• on ��. • .� lien 11-10% �z �- • "• 111% , OfMendota Heights Pull Land Iqfbi-mation Department EAGAN 1 4111.102