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2006-01-10 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AGENDA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Tuesday, January 10, 2006 6:30 p.m. — Council Chambers 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. November 9, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes 4. Chair Spicer's Report on Committee Meeting to Plan 2006 Park Celebration/ 50th Anniversary Recognition. 5. Recreation Programmer's Report 6. Mendota Heights Athletic Association 7. Request for Ice Skating Rink on Rogers Lake 8. Valley Park Tennis Courts 9. Recap of Joint City Council/Park Commission Workshop 10. Dakota County Proposed NURT Trail 11. Updates • Pilot Knob Site • Police Report 12. Other Comments 13. Adjourn Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities are available upon request 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 with requests. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 9, 2005 The October 2005 meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Wednesday, November 9, 2005 in the 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 Richard Spicer and Commissioners Stan Linnell, Dave Libra, Missie Hickey, Raymond Morris, Paul Portz, and Larry Craighead. City Staff present were Operations and Projects Coordinator Guy Kullander, Recreation Programmer Teresa Gangelhoff, and Administrative Assistant Patrick C. Hollister. Mr. Hollister took the minutes. MINUTES Commissioner Morris moved approval of the October 11, 2005 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes. Commissioner Portz seconded the motion. AYES: 7 NAYS: 0 CHAIR SPICER'S REPORT ON COMMITTEE MEETING TO PLAN 2006 PARK CELEBRATION/50TH ANNIVERSARY RECOGNITION Chair Spicer reminded everyone that observance of the City's 50`x' Anniversary will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2006. Chair Spicer said that the festivities will include a 5k run and 5k walk. Chair Spicer showed the route on a map. Chair Spicer said that the admission would be $5 per entrant and that the fee would include a T-shirt and water. Chair Spicer said that there will also be an antique car show at Mendakota Park and Mendota Plaza. Chair Spicer said that games will include airplane tosses and beanbag tosses, and that these activities will also cost $5 per participant and will include a T-shirt. Chair Spicer said that in the afternoon there will be food vendors, dignitaries, bands, kids' activities, and a night dance. Chair Spicer said that the evening will conclude with a fireworks display. Chair Spicer held up a draft issue of the Heights Hilites calling for volunteers for the events. RECREATION PROGRAMMER'S REPORT Ms. Gangelhoff provided an overview of recreation activities, including horseback riding, self defense classes, crochet lessons, and skating rink hours. Chair Spicer said that details of the programs offered are available in the City Hall lobby and in the next issue of Heights Hilites. CLARIFICATION OF CITY'S RELATIONSHIP WITH MHAA Chair Spicer acknowledged Mr. Scott Applebaum, MHAA Baseball Commissioner, Mr. Mike Kuenster, husband of MHAA board member, and Mr. Murphy. Chair Spicer noted that he had received a letter from Planning Commission Marc Miller inquiring about the relationship between MHAA and the City. Chair Spicer read the letter. Mr. Applebaum said that the MHAA parents would like to see upgrades made to the City's athletic facilities. Chair Spicer said that the City has limited facilities for kids but that Mendakota Park is one of the best of its kind in the metro area. Mr. Kuenster said that he has coached baseball. Mr. Kuenster said that there are holes in the mats at Mendakota. Mr. Kuenster said that Amelia at MHAA reports that MHAA has lost a lot of baseballs at the Civic center field because there is no canopy at the field. Mr. Kuenster said that when MHAA hosts tournaments, they use a parent's lawn tractor to groom the fields. Chair Spicer explained that Mendota Heights has no Recreation Department, and that this is one thing that keeps taxes low in the City. Mr. Applebaum said that MHAA would be able to provide some of the funding for these improvements. Chair Spicer said that when Scott Miller was involved in MHAA baseball, that is precisely what happened. Chair Spicer said that Mr. Miller provided funding to the City for improvements such as batting cages and upgrades to the Civic Center field. Chair Spicer said that for a while the Special Parks Fund received cell tower revenue but that is no longer occurring. Chair Spicer said that MHAA should provide an itemized list of improvements that they would like to see made to Mr. Kullander. Commissioner Craighead said that it appears to him that the infield is in good shape at the Civic Center ballfield. 2 Mr. Kuenster said that the sprinkler system at the Civic Center Ballfield has not worked for two years. Mr. Kuenster said that the fields are usually in bad condition by August. Mr. Kuenster handed out a list of desired improvements. Commissioner Morris said that the City has many needs and a limited amount of money. Mr. Applebaum said that MHAA would be willing and able to raise money for specific needs. Chair Spicer said that MHAA is welcome to present their wish list to the Parks and Recreation Commission, and that the Commission would make a recommendation to the Council. Chair Spicer asked for a list of things that need improvement. Mr. Kuenster asked who he should provide the list to. Chair Spicer said that the list should go to Mr. Kullander. Mr. Kuenster acknowledged that the Parks Crew does a great job in advance of tournaments in preparing the fields. Mr. Kullander said that the parks crew brings in ag lime every year. Chair Spicer noted that one of the items on MHAA's wish list was advertisements on ball field fences. Chair Spicer said that previous Councils had been opposed to this, but that MHAA could try to persuade the current Council to allow it. Chair Spicer said that Scott Miller got almost everything that he asked for from the City. Chair Spicer said that other Cities have a Parks Department with its own budget, but that Mendota Heights does not even have a full-time parks employee. Chair Spicer recommended that MHAA talk to Mr. Kullander. Mr. Kuenster asked about money that the City contributes to MHAA. Mr. Kullander said that the City contributes $10,000 annually to offset Amelia's salary and also contributes approximately $3,000 annually for T -ball. Commissioner Libra noted that one of the items on MHAA's wish list were lights at Mendakota Ballpark. Commissioner Libra noted that this item had been rejected by the Council in the past. Commissioner Portz said that the City may be willing to match financial contributions by MHAA for improvements. Chair Spicer reminded MHAA that the Parks Commission is not the final decision maker. Mr. Murphy said that he saw irrigation working at the Civic Center ballfiled, but that not enough water is being applied that the fields are too dry. [Attached please find the written response that Mr. Kullander sent to Mr. Kuenster and Mr. Applebaum the day after the Parks Commission meeting, including the original MHAA "wish list" that Mr. Applebaum and Mr. Kuenster presented to the Commission on November 9, 2005.] DNR PERMIT FOR ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS ON WAGON WHEEL TRAIL Mr. Kullander said that the Council has not scheduled a date for the improvements to Wagon Wheel Trail and that this is an information item only that a request to extend our permit has been submitted. Mr. Kullander said that a Street Assessment for improvements near Ivy Park would be paid from the Special Parks Fund in the amount of $3,315. Chair Spicer said he was disappointed that the money came out of the Special Parks Fund because the Special Parks Fund does not receive a yearly stipend any more. REQUETS FROM RESIDENTS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF TWO TRAIL SEGMENTS Mr. Kullander reviewed the two requests from residents for construction of additional trail segments. Mr. Kullander said that one request was in the Laurel/Sylvandale/Sunset Lane area and the other was in Bunker Hills connecting Ridge Place to Valley Park Trail. Mr. Kullander recommended that we no longer pursue an extension of the trail to Sunset Lane because it would go between two houses. Mr. Kullander said that lie talked with one of the homeowners who objects to the trail. Mr. Kullander said that alternate access can be made north of this area or through Somerset Elementary playground area. Commissioner Libra asked about the property to the west. Mr. Kullander said that that property was City property and did not go anywhere. Commissioner Libra said that it would be nice to have a trail along Dodd Road to ride a bike or walk safely. Mr. Kullander said that the City will push for a trail if MnDOT comes in to upgrade Dodd Road. Commissioner Craighead asked if residents currently use Sunset Lane for a foot trail right now anyway. C! Mr. Kullander said that there is no definite path and that if there is a "volunteer path", it is used by very few people. Mr. Kullander said that as for the second trail at Dodd and 110, the homeowner is willing to work with the City. Commissioner Morris moved that the City further investigate the trail at Dodd and 110; Commissioner Libra seconded the motion. Chair Spicer said that this would be similar to the McDonald's trail project several years ago. AYES: 7 NAYS: 0 UPDATES Staff provided the following updates: NTTRT Trail Mr. Kullander said that the City Council had passed a Resolution supporting a study by Dakota County for the trail north of the frontage road. Mr. Kullander said that the approval was conditioned on mitigation for the residents. Mr. Kullander said that the grant funding was extended to provide enough time for the County engineers to design the project. Mr. Kullander said that City staff had met with Dakota County engineers on the subject, and that the City made a request to the County to help pay for moving the road away from two neighbors. Mr. Kullander said that the County did not grant the request, and that MnDOT also declined to help with funding. Mr. Kullander said that the trail has now been re -aligned to cross over in the middle of the frontage road, and that this will mitigate the impact for the most impacted homeowners on the west end of the trail. Pilot Knob Mr. Hollister said that the City intends to close on the Pilot Knob purchase by the end of 2005. OPUS/EcoLab Mr. Hollister said that the OPUS proposal for redevelopment of the Ecolab site has now received final approval by the Council. Mr. Hollister said that the Commission could anticipate $297,000 (at 110 units x $2700) of income into the Special Parks Fund as a result of this project, minus credits to OPUS for in-kind parks contributions such as trails. 5 Police Report Staff provided the Police Report for October 2005. JOINT CITY COUNCIL AND PARKS COMMISSION WORKSHOP — DECEMBER 6 Mr. Kullander reminded the Commission that a joint City Council/Parks Commission workshop has been scheduled from 6:00 pm to 7:20 pm on Tuesday, December 6, immediately before the regular Council meeting. Mr. Kullander asked the Commissioners to provide him with any topics that they wished to discuss at the workshop. OTHER COMMENTS The Commission expressed interest in continuing communication with MHAA. ►1 0r�lr».� Commissioner Hickey moved to adj ourn. Commissioner Portz seconded the motion. AYES: 7 NAYS: 0 The meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS Date: JANUARY 3, 2006 To: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION From: TERESA GANGELHOFF RE: NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER 2005 PARKS AND RECREATION REPORT Park Celebration 2006-50 years I am presently working with the committee on the 50th Anniversary event. Youth Trips Both Holiday trips over break were well attended. We went to bowling and roller skating on Tuesday, Dec. 27 and then went to Maple Grove indoor playground and water park on Thursday, Dec. 29. 1 will be meeting with WSP to plan Spring Break trips. We are working with Community Ed in Dist. 197 to promote our trips. This way we can use their bus (from dist. 197) at a lower cost than we were paying to hire Safeway bus company for our trips in the past. I have attached the flyer that was sent home to MH schools in December with the winter programming. Fishing Derby and derby name change to honor Cliff Timm Plans are in place to run the derby on July 12, 2006. We will miss Cliff Timm and plan to change the derby to Cliff Timm Memorial Fishing Derby. He was going to have money from his trust continue to sponsor the derby so his mission to get kids fishing will continue! We will still have "Good fishin" in memory of Cliff in Mendota Heights!!! Cable TV Show "Community Park Connections" The next segment will be taped in March for the spring episode. I may have our tennis instructor attend to promote our tennis program and also we will promote the 50th anniversary/Park Celebration. Gymnastics These classes are being offered with WSP Park and Rec. We are running our second session starting in January. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMORANDUM Skating Lessons Our skating instructor -Rebecca Barrette will be offering lessons on Saturdays starting in January at Friendly Hills Rink. We will be running 3 classes, Smalls and Tails, Beginners and Advanced Beginners. Ski Tri A ski trip is planned with SSP and WSP to Afton Alps on Friday, Jan. 2, 2006 after school. We may offer a few more on Saturday's with Community Ed program but they do not have the dates set yet. Ice Rinks The ice rinks opened on time this year on Saturday, December 17, 2005 at Friendly Hills, Marie and Wentworth. Terry and his flooding crew did a great job of getting them going early until the next week we had to close on Christmas Eve as warm weather had set in. We reopened as soon as it was cold again the next week but it has not been favorable for ice the past few weeks! Tennis Tim Garvey has agreed to be our tennis instructor again this summer. I will attend a workshop in January to get our program off the ground again with USTA. Softball Letters will go out to managers in January for team deposits and we will run the same leagues, Men's D, Women's D and Men's over 30. Golf I have been in contact with Dave from the Par 3 and we are going to plan to run our same programming at the Par 3 for this summer for leagues, lessons and camps. MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARK AND RECREATION WINTER CLASSES SIGN UP EARLY -SPACE IS LIMITED! .EARN TO SKATE OUTDOOR ICE SKATING LESSONS This is a great opportunity to improve your skating skills. Lessons taught by a local professional skater. Classes are limited to 5-7 participants, so register early as they fill quickly. Please indicate the level, name and session number. Lessons held at Friendly Hills Rink (716 Navajo Lane) FEE: $30.00 Please note: *Feb. 11 will be used for make -ups due to weather cancellations. The instructor will set times for that day if needed. Please call the skating lesson hotline before each lesson at 255-1173 for rink conditions/weather cancellations & make up times. (If your class is full please register/pay and be put on the waiting list as we will add more classes if needed.) ... Smalls &.Tails -Ages 3-5 years old - a Parents participate w/1st time skater. $` Learn tips to teach your child to skate. Ages: 3-5 years old When: Saturdays, Jan. 7- Feb. 4 Time: 9:00 to 9:30 a.m. Beeinners - Ages 6 and older For skaters with no previous experience. Leam basic skills. A ues: 6 & older When: Saturdays, Jan. 7 - Feb. 4 .e: 9:35 to 10:05 a.m. Advanced Belzinners - Ages 6 and older Skaters who can skate forward or who have Completed the Beginners class. Ages: 6 & older When: Sat., Jan. 7 - Feb. 4 Time: 10:10 to 10:40 a.m. Intermediate — Ages 6 and older For skaters that have completed Adv. Beginners Class. Ages: 6 & older When: Saturday's, Jan.7 — Feb. 4 Time: 11:20 to 11:50 (*follows funstyle freestyle) Funstyle/Freestyle - For advanced skaters who can do forward/backward crossovers & turns or who have already took the Intermediate Class. Ages: 6 & older When: Sat. , Jan. 7 - Feb 4 Time: 10:45 - 11:15a.m. Adults - Ages 17 and older - This class is perfect for adults who want to begin skating for the first time or improve skills. It's never to late to learn! ! ! When: Saturdays, Jan. 7 - Feb. 4 Time: 11:55 to 12:25pm .......................................... INTERESTED IN TENNIS THIS WINTER? After school prolzrams? Winter/Indoor? • intact our instructor -Tim R. Garvey, (Teaching Aessional, Member/ JSTA & USPTA/Certified : Instructor/Coach) (651) 453-0470 or E-mail inquiries to: 2arvey2patt.net •.......................................... GYMNASTICS Gymnastics - Saturday Mornings For boys & girls ages 3 and older. Check below for class level. Classes include: Balance Beam, Uneven Bars, Floor Exercise, Tumbling & more. All classes held at Sibley High School Gym (use Delaware Entrance). Girls must wear leotards; boys may wear shorts & t -shirts. Classes limited. Classes will continue for six weeks. Cost Per child: Pre -School $55.00 Beginner/Adv. Beginner $80.00 Classes held Jan 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11, 2006 Times: Dad, Mom & Me, Ages 3 & 4 8:30 — 9:00 AM (Max of 5) Tumbling Tykes, Ages 3 & 4 9:05 — 9:35 AM (Max of 20) Tumbling Tots, Ages 4 & 5 9:40 —10:10 AM (Max of 20) Kinder Tots, Ages 5 & 6 10:15 — 10:55 AM (Max of 20) Beginner & 11:00 — Noon (Max of 10) Advanced Beginner (Age 5 & up) 11:00 — Noon (Max 10) MENDOTA HEIGHTS WARMING HOUSEIRINK HOURS The City of Mendota Heights has 3 outdoor hockey and pleasure rinks that are opened December 17'}' until Early March. (weather . permitting) A rink attendant will be on duty during the regular warming house hours listed below. The outdoor rinks and warming houses will be CLOSED and outdoor programs will be canceled when the air temperature is below zero. Please keep children home on these days. For information concerning ice rink lclosures call the ice rink/warming house hotline at 255-1174 or for . skating lesson cancellations call 255-1173. 'Locations: Friendly Hills, Marie, & Wentworth Parks IWarming House Hours: *Weekdays 4 — 8:30 pm *Christmas/New Year's Eve 12 — 4 pm ' *Saturdays 9 am — 8:30 pm *Christmas Closed *Sundays 12 — 6 pm * New Years Day 12 — 6 pm • *All weekday -holiday's or school is out ' I in Dist. 197 - 12 — 8:30 pm SKI TRIPS Two Ski/Snowboard Options: 1. Park & Rec -AFTON ALPS -Fri. Jan. 27th 4-10:30 pm (THIS TRIP REGISTER @ CITY HALL W/PARK & REC) Afton Alps Skiing includes lift ticket, bus/van, supervision and equipment rental if needed. Bring extra money for concessions or pack a bag supper. Fees: Ski Trip plus ski rental $32.00 Ski Trip + snowboard rental $40.00 Ski Trip (own equipment) $19.00 2. Community Education -Please call Comm. Ed -651-681-2397 for several ski options after school & Saturdav's during Dec.. Jan.. & Feb. *****Please see other side for registration form and School's Out Youth Trips****** SCHOOLS OUT - HOLIDAY YOUTH TRIPS Join us on your school days off. The trips listed below offer the perfect opportunities for kids with their friends, classmates and sib- lings to participate in FUN chaperoned activities. Bus departs from MH City Hall parking lot: Please register by mail or in person at City Hall -1101 Victoria Curve, MH, 55118. Space for the trips are limited and will fill up fast. Mark you calendars now and plan ahead. Registration will close the Monday prior to tri . pszsim .� I3URSDA,Y_DE CE MA —M -PER 29- INMU= PLE GROVE I�pOR a...�; WA,TER pARK & MAPLE I ME!MAZE INDOOR pLA`Y GRO -011 This triUND em P Provides fiin in and out of 11 w.11 ater. First we will have the A4AZE featuringsl • fun in the els, ball pits & lslides, climbing lev- lunch and P yhouse. Brie money for snacks f a bag`- lunch were off to the After pool with foot waterslide s �. I rope swin 'Prays' a 130 g• geysers, & a BUS DEpARTS/RETU 9:5013:55RIVS AGES: 6. d up .�.. ., 10%_ , 111 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS AND REC REGISTRATION FOW By signing below you agree the City of Mendota Heights shall not be liable for any claims, demands, injuries, damages, actions or causes of action whatsoever to me or my property due to the passive or active negligence of the City of Mendota Freights, it's agents, employees aris- ing out of or connected with my agents or employees from all such claims, demands, injuries, damages, actions or causes of action whatso- ever- I have read and understood this agreement by signing below. We reserve the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient enrollment with a complete refund- A $2.00 service fee will be charged for cancellations made prior to the start of a program. No refunds will be made for activities after the registration deadline or tickets purchased. Please add A $5.00 non-resident fee per participantlactivity. EXCEP'T'ION: Youth trips will not have a non-resident fee but MH residents will receive priority registration over non-residents. City of Mendota Heights Park and Recreation Department 651-452-1850 Keep this part for your records. No further confirmation will be made. Please show up on date/ time of your activity/program. ACTIVITY NAME ACTIVITY DATE AMOUNT PAID DATE SENT .- i .: A. i ACTMTY NAME 1. 2. ACTIVrrY DATE FEE School Grade Age_Birthdate /_/_Male_Female Home Phone pork ., _0 phone **PLEASE SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR WINTER CLASSES AND RINK INFO** City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM January 4, 2006 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: Mendota Heights Athletic Association Commission meetings: Improving communications between the City and the Athletic Association was discussed at the Joint Council / Commission Workshop held on December 6th. Attached is a copy of the letter sent by City Administrator, Jim Danielson, inviting MHAA to send a representative once each quarter to a Commission meeting. Field Maintenance and Improvement Projects: Terry Blum and I met with Scott Applebaum, Mike Kuenster, and Dave Miller to discuss maintenance and possible future improvements at the Civic Center and Mendakota ballfields. At the Civic Center the following ideas were discussed: upgrade of irrigation system that would include a hose faucet (not drinking fountain), replace backstop with a "hooded" version to eliminate foul balls into the pond area, move in the outfield fence twenty plus feet to establish a 250 ft outfield, placement of a batting cage and practice pitching mound(s) in the open space available when the fence is moved in, construction of some sort of roof or covering over the players benches, and installation of a score board (also outside the "moved - in" outfield fence. Terry will address ag-line and turf maintenance issues prior to spring try -outs. At Mendakota, they would like a small storage building (part of the building would be used by our parks crew), score boards, mats in the batting cages, and roof or shelter over the players benches (something "light" in nature so as not to obstruct spectator viewing of the game in progress, could be considered). The gentlemen will be returning to the Park Commission, probably in February or March, with a more refined proposal(s) that will include funding options or requests. Action Required: None, this memo is for information only. December 14, 2005 Amelia Olson Mendota Heights Athletic Association 161 E. Marie Lower Level West Saint Paul, Minnesota 55118 Dear Ms. Olson: .014 LAY of Mendota Heiahts On December 6, 2005 the City Council held a workshop with the Parks and Recreation Commission. Both the City Council and the Parks and Recreation Commission expressed how much they appreciate the service that the Mendota Heights Athletic Association provides for our community. Among the topics discussed was how to improve communication with the Mendota Heights Athletic Association. To this end, the City would like to invite MHAA to designate a representative to attend Parks and Recreation Commission meetings on a quarterly basis. The Parks and Recreation Commission meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Please contact Administrative Assistant Patrick Hollister at 651- 452-1850 to discuss which months would work best for MHAA. Sincerely, YJim anielson (C i Administrator cc: Guy Kullanderi Patrick C. Hollister 1101 Victoria Curve • Mendota Heights, MN 55118 (651) 452-1850 • FAX (651) 452-8940 City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM January 4, 2006 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations 8s Projects Manager .,* Subject: Request for ice skating rink on Roger's Lake Background: The City received the attached e-mail from Carol Cemensky requesting the City consider developing and maintaining a skating rink/ area on Roger's Lake. I suggested that she present her request to the Commission and she indicated that she would attend tonight's meeting. Discussion: I have attached a map of Roger's Lake which shows the individual parcels of land around the lake. Most of the lake shore is in private hands with lot lines extending out into the lake. If a skating rink were to be developed our only "good" access point unto the lake would be at Roger's Lake Park which is unacceptable due to safety concerns caused by thin ice and open water which occurs when the lake aerator, located on the west side of the picnic shelter, is in operation, usually after the first of the year. Roger's Lake has several springs, most uncharted, that could be hazardous. To create a rink the area must be plowed, our park personal would have to bring portable pumps unto the ice, drill holes for a water supply, install safety signage, and route signage from on -shore parking areas to the rink, and possibly construct a temporary or portable shelter to use for a place to put on/off skates. Also, motorized boats are not allowed on the lake. The "motorized" restriction may also apply to cars and snowmobiles that skaters may want to utilize to access the rink. Action Required: Listen to Ms Cemensky's request and if the Commission wished to further explore developing a skating rink on the lake I can discuss this with the parks crew and report back at next months meeting. Guy Kullander From: Guy Kullander Sent: Thursday, December 15, 2005 10:35 AM To: Kathleen Swanson Subject: RE: Recreation Dept: Ice Skating Kathy, I informed her that I would bring her request to the Park Commission at the January 10th meeting and encouraged her to attend. -----Original Message ----- From: Kathleen Swanson Sent: Thursday, December 15, 2005 9:49 AM To: Sue McDermott; Guy Kullander; Patrick Hollister Subject: FW: Recreation Dept: Ice Skating Would one of you please respond to this website email. Thanks. Kathy -----Original Message ----- From: Carol.Cemensky@wellsfargo.com[mailto:Carol.Cemensky@wellsfargo.com] Sent: Tuesday, December 13, 2005 4:55 PM To: CityHall Subject: Recreation Dept: Ice Skating Dear Park and Recreation Department: I am writing to request that you would consider changing one of your ice skating rinks in Mendota Heights to something new: A skating oval on Rogers Lake. In years past, St. Thomas Academy has had different competitions or projects in which they have cleared off a large oval on the ice. It was wonderful. We skated on it daily until the winds blew it closed. There are many people who snowshoe or cross country ski daily around the perimiter of the lake, (just staying away from the corner of the lake where the aerator is in place). Once in a while we are lucky enough to have St. Thomas groom this oval for skiing, but it is used enough to stay pretty good regardless. If you stay on the East side of the dock; the ice is thick enough to get out on the lake. Many families also make their own rinks; we flood them by drilling a hole and pumping water from the lake on top of the ice. This would save the city water costs! A large skating oval would be a wonderful addition for those who like to speed skate, or just skate for exercise. We would not need it to be flooded like a skating rink, so though a larger area, it would possibly require less maintenance. What I am thinking of is a 4-6' wide path cleared in a large oval around the lake. My family lives on the East side of the lake, and we really enjoy seeing people use the lake. The lake is something we in Mendota Heights are very lucky to have, and how wonderful it would be to have it used by all residents for fishing and swimming in the summer, and skating, skiing and ice fishing in the winter! Thank you for your consideration! Carol Cemensky 2343 Swan Drive Mendota Heights, MN 55120 I 651-683-9724 Carol Cemensky phone: 612.667.0054 > This message may contain confidential and/or privileged information. If you are not the addressee or authorized to receive this for the addressee, you must not use, copy, disclose, or take any action based on this message or any information herein. If you have received this message in error, please advise the sender immediately by reply e-mail and delete this message. Thank you for your cooperation. Page 1 of 1 Guy Kullander From: Guy Kullander Sent: Thursday, December 15, 2005 10:34 AM To: 'Carol.Cemensky@wellsfargo.com' Subject: Response to your inquiry I will pass your letter onto the Parks and Recreation Commission which next meets on Tuesday, January 10th at 6:30 pm. Please attend this meeting if you can. If you have any questions, please contact me at City Hall. 651-452-1850 or my direct number is 651 255-1155 2 N IKO 6sR 5 LP, -YF I s, . o ai v, bin y y U O J cdT1 N �y� N .Q 'p r, y d U y O +� ' �" o U Twq �w�qy °r' `.�a'�o o w .�; 0 ca o ° D a *' a� to a� o ooy y ,a U Ln 0 0 N 00 N w as w U W Q Q cn P-4 z Q w 2 City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM January 4, 2006 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations 8v Projects Coordinator X_�k, Subject: Residents concerns regarding Valley Park Tennis Courts Background: The attached letter was received last summer from a resident on Valley Curve Road regarding the condition of the tennis courts in Valley Park. Discussion: The conditions at these courts, when staff looked at them, is not unlike our other courts that are adversely affected by standing water from storm run-off. Tennis courts are constructed very flat with almost no slope for run-off. Each time they are resurface (once every five to seven years) the low areas are filled with a leveling compound but the final result is that the "puddle area" is just moved to another location. Funding to resurface these courts ($5,000) will be requested in the 2007 Budget. Last fall, the parks crew removed treated wooden 2" x 8" boards installed in 1972 outside the fence as a "form" for the bituminous surface court surface. After numerous freeze/thaw cycles the boards had risen or the courts had sunk with the results that the boards were blocking storm water run-off from the courts. Plans were to construct a bituminous curb, to divert storm run-off away from the court surface, along the west side of the courts on the bike/pedestrian trail last fall but this work was canceled due to high bids and will be done this year along with planned trail maintenance. Also, the perimeter fencing will be raised 2" (less than a tennis ball) to better enable leaves and twigs that now collect and retard storm water run-off, to be removed from the courts (under the fence). Detail inspection will be done next summer which may recommend that all previous re -surfacing layers be removed by a water-power/blasting method and then resurfaced and striped. This method, done in 2004 at Wentworth tennis courts, would cost in the $12,000.00 range. Action Required: None, this memo is for information only. FRANK & JOAN KLEIN 1826 VALLEY CURVE MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MN 55118 May 22, 2005 Parks Department City of Mendota Heights Mendota Heights, MN Dear Sir: The Valley Park tennis courts (Wachtler and Marie Avenues) are badly in need of resurfacing. These are excellent courts that receive frequent use. The courts are nestled next to the park, woods and trail system and therefore receive perfect natural wind protection. The last time they were resurfaced, the work was imperfectly done so that especially the East court had many low spots that badly puddled after rains. At these areas, especially, the surface has practically disintegrated. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ��-L Frank H. Klein 1826 Valley Curve Rd. Mendota Hts., MN 55118 Tel.: 686-9375 Email: joansklein@yahoo.com Page 1 of 1 Guy Kullander From: Guy Kullander Sent: Wednesday, September 07, 2005 10:29 AM To: Jim Danielson Subject: Valley Park Tennis Court I just took a look at the Valley Park Tennis Courts to see what conditions might be "on -safe". Potentially un -safe conditions could be: 1. Water draining across the surface areas from west to east (creek) 2. When wet, dirt/dust on surface areas can be slippery 3. Leaves and litter along the edges of fences traps water, etc 4. Standing water has "loosened" some of the surfacing in several areas, especially outside the playing areas and it is "lifting/bubbling" off — could cause a miss -step Remedies: (in no particular order or priority)\ 1. Install a concrete gutter along the west side of court (120 ft) along the fence line and edge of bituminous trail and pipe to creek (160 ft) - $8 K to $10 K 2. Or ... place an asphalt "curb" on the trail outside the fence to direct storm run-off northerly to the turf area along the north side -flows to creek - $1 K 3. Remove the 2x6 border wood outside the court that is now trapping water - PW 4. Re -grade around the south, north and east sides of courts to lower and slope turf away from court surface — PW ($500 to $1 K for seed & topsoil 5. Raise fence fabric 3" to allow debris to pass under - $2 K 6. Power -blast surface and re -surface after 1 thru 4 above completed - $7.5 K 7. Re -construct courts: 1. Remove & replace fencing - $15 K 2. Remove existing bituminous (4") - $5 K 3. Place min. 12" free -draining fill - $ 10 K 4. Drainage tile, gutters, storm piping & site/turf restoration - $15 K 5. Place new bituminous surfacing (3-1/2") & court lines - $35 K 6. Alternate concrete base with court surfacing & markings (requires 1 thru 4 above, plus...) - $50 K 1/5/2006 City of Mendota Heights MEMEORANDUM January 3, 2006 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: Re -cap of Joint City Council / Park Commission Workshop Discussion: Attached is a memo "re -capping" items discussed at the December 6'h, 2005 Workshop. Action Required: None, this memo is for information only. City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM December 14, 2005 Memo to: Mayor, City Council and City Administra From: Guy Kullander, Operations 8s Projects Coordinator Ak Subject: Re -cap of Issues discussed at December 6th, 2005 Joint City Council / Park Commission Workshop Background: Both Patrick and I took notes at the workshop and from our notes the following re -cap was developed. Discussion Items: #1: Additional Funding Source for Special Park Fund: Possible source may be "cell tower revenues" which are currently placed in a fund for future maintenance (re -painting) of the water tower (one time only) . Direction: Jim/Kristen evaluate current fund balance and future re -painting costs and make a recommendation on annual funding level available that could be directed to the Special Park Fund. #2• Acquire Additional Park Lands: a. Pilot Knob: Acquisition of 8.25 acres scheduled for December 20th.Consideration should be given to preserve north/east portion of remaining undeveloped land, east of site to be acquired, to maintain "view shed" of site from Fort Snelling side of the river. Existing tree line can be used as "visual site buffer". b. Foss Property on Wentworth: Eight acre site not "suitable" for active park facility -best use as natural area. Good site for "conservancy easement" to limit density of development. c. Addition of fully developed youth baseball field - Existing available local facilities are adequate - upgrade or add new amenities to existing fields. d. Mendota Plaza - Specific proposal not as yet submitted by Paster. Is there a possibility for City to acquire a portion for City use (bonfire / clean-up day) ? e. Par 3 - Land cost plus "lost profits" - may be too expensive to acquire f. Identify specific planned use prior to any land acquisition(s) g. Lilydale Tennis club looking for site to relocate to - sold for condos h. Resurrection Cemetery undeveloped land north of water tower along Lexington. Jim to contact for information on long range plans for undeveloped portions of cemetery. If land is available, City should consider acquisition. i. Future upgrades of Hwy 110 should consider "boulevard plantings" i. Opus Development will construct a paved trail along Wachtler and Hwy 13 for the entire length of the east and north boundaries. Developer's agreement includes a cap of $60,000.00 for these costs (reduction in their Park Dedication Fee) Sue McDermott remarked that this is a very good deal for the City. #6: Other Issues: a. Council should give extra consideration to future applicants for a seat on the Park and Recreation Commission if the individual belongs to MHAA. b. To improve cooperation and coordination the Mayor/Jim should contact MHAA and request that they require a representative/ member to attend City Park and Recreation Commission meetings on a quarterly basis. City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM November 10, 2005 Memo to: Mayor, Council Members and City Administr From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator K Subject: Possible Agenda Items for December 6th Joint City Council / Parks & Recreation Commission Workshop Background: .City Council selected December 6th, 2005 for a Joint Workshop with the Parks and Recreation Commission to be held in the large conference room at City Hall beginning at 6:00 pm until 7:15 pm. Staff developed a list of �rojects and issues, many of which were discussed or visited during the September 8t Bus Tour of City parks and trails, which were given to Park Commission members to rank the five or six projects they thought should be discussed. Discussion: To date, five members of the commission have submitted their ranking sheets and are here summarized: ITEM DESCRIPTION RANKING 1. Trail on Lexington from Wagon Wheel Trail to Hwy 110 4 votes ranked HIGH 2. Trail on Wagon Wheel Trail: Lexington to Dodd 2 votes ranked HIGH 4. NURT trail adjacent to Hwy 110: Dodd to Delaware 2 votes ranked HIGH + 2 MED 5. Trail on Dodd Rd: Town Center to Marie Ave 3 votes ranked HIGH 6. Trail on Hwy 13: Opus development to Lilydale Rd 2 votes ranked HIGH 7. Install concrete curb at Wachtler/Wentwork trail 1 vote ranked HIGH + 1 MED 8. Trail maintenance (cracks, overlay, repairs, etc) 4 votes ranked HIGH + 1 MED 9. Rehabilitation of 2 playgrounds each year 3 votes ranked HIGH + 1 MED 13.a. Acquire Pilot Knob 8.25 acre site 2 votes ranked HIGH + 2 MED 13.b. Restore native plants & modest trails & overlook 2 votes MED 13.c. Protect "view shed" of Pilot Knob by preserving all or a 1 vote ranked HIGH portion of easterly 17 acres. 22. Remove invasive plants other than buckthorn from parks 3 votes MED 23. Remove buckthorn from City parks 2 votes ranked HIGH + 1 MED "C" Additional funding source for Special Park Fund 3 votes ranked HIGH Action Required: None: This memo is for information only. The Workshop Agenda will be prepared and distributed by the City Administrator in early December. City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM November 2, 2005 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: December 61h Joint City Council and Park Commission Work Shop Background: The City Council has selected Tuesday, December 6th, 2005 for a joint workshop with the Park and Recreation Commission. Meeting will begin at 6:00 pm in the Large Conference room at City Hall and end at 7:15 pm, prior to the start of the regularly scheduled City Council meeting. The Commission was asked to select and rank park and trail issues from a list distributed by staff at last months meeting. Three commission members submitted their list of topics they would like considered for inclusion on the Workshop Agenda. Discussion: List of issues ranked: 1. Trail on Lexington from Wagon Wheel Trail to Hwy 110: 2 votes both ranked High 2. Trail on Wagon Wheel from Lexington to Dodd Rd 2 votes both ranked High 4. NU RT Trail along Hwy 110: Dodd to Delaware 2 votes both ranked High 6. Trail on Hwy 13 west from Opus to Lilydale Rd. 1 vote ranked High 7. Conc. Curb at Wachtler/Wentworth corner 1 vote ranked High 8. Trail maintenance (cracks, overlays, etc) 2 votes High, 1 vote Med 9. Rehabilitation of 2 playgrounds per year 2 votes High, 1 vote Med 13. Acquire Pilot Knob site (8.25 ac) 1 vote High, 1 vote Med - Restore native plants & modest trails & overlook 1 vote Med 22. Remove invasive plants other than buckthorn 1 vote Med 23. Remove buckthorn from City parks 1 vote Med "C" Additional funding source for Special Park Fund 2 votes High Recommendation: Submit, to the City Administrator, a list of issues or topics the Commission wishes to discuss with the City Council at the upcoming workshop. Issues or Projects Discussed during Park & Trail Bus Tour TRAILS: 1. Lexington (east side): Wagon Wheel to Hwy 110 2. Wagon Wheel Trail: Lexington to Dodd 3. Delaware: Huber Dr. to Hwy 110 4. NURT-Hwy 110: Dodd to Delaware 5. Dodd Rd: Town Center to Marie 6. Hwy 13: Opus west to Lilydale Rd 7. Conc. Curb at Wachtler/Wentworth corner 8. Trail maintenance (crack seal, overlays, etc) PLAYGROUNDS: 9. Rehabilitation of 2 Neighborhood Parks per year LAND ACQUISITIONS: 10. MN DOT east of I35E to Roger's Lake (existing trail area to Mendota Heights Rd) (Lake aerator) 11. Foss property (8 acres) west of Wentworth Park 12. Wetland area east of Wentworth Park & the Avenues neighborhood - acquire for ponds 13. Pilot Knob site (8.5 acres west of Pilot Knob Rd) (Restore native plants - modest trail & overlook) OTHER PARK ISSUES: 14. Maintenance of native plantings around ponds (Ivy Park & Roger's Lake shoreline (old beach) 15. Permanent "stairway" for lake aerator (Roger's) 16. Pave driveway and parking lots at Roger's Lake Park 17. City fund improvements to water quality-Roger's 18. Lake or shoreline fishing improvements (dredge) 19. Replace rink lighting at Friendly 8v Wentworth 20. Tennis courts: a. Continue yearly crack sealing/ surface repairs b. Re -apply play -coat surface -1 court per yr- 5 total c. Total reconstruction of court ($60K per- 5 total) 21. Restore native plants in Copperfield Ponds area 22. Remove invasive plants from parks (in addition to Buckthorn) and restore with native plant species 23. Removal of buckthorn from City park lands' ADDITIONAL ISSUES NOT DISCUSSED ON TOUR: A. Wentworth warming house - Replace B. New hockey rink lights @ Friendly 8s Wentworth C. Additional funding source for Special Park fund D. -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - E. ------------------- F. ------------- - - - - - - HIGH MED LOW City of Mendota Heights MEMEORANDU January 3, 2006 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator _�c Subject: Dakota County Proposed North East Urban Trail (NURT) Background: The City Council approved of a trail alignment plan, presented by Dakota County Physical Development Department, to construct the trail from Delaware westerly north of the frontage road and to have a mid -block crossing to the south side between Oak Street and South Lane. Discussion: County staff/engineers have begun work on the design plans and in December responded to a request from the residents at 657 Hwy 110 to describe the impacts the proposed trail would have on their property. Mary Jackson visited with Mr. Henry and upon returning to her office received phone call from a very upset Mrs. Henry who then contacted the City. Attached is a brief summary of our conversation which was passed on to various staff and the City Council. Action Required: None at this time. This memo is for information only. December 12, 2005 Memo to: Sue From: Guy Regarding: NURT trail - Phone call from resident at 657 Hwy. 110 Jamie Henry (657 Hwy 110) phoned this morning. She said that she had just finished talking with Mary Jackson and she was very upset that her 12 foot tall lilac bushes would have to be removed for the trail. Apparently Mary was not very specific on what funds would be available to mitigate visual or sound impacts that will exist once the lilacs are removed. Ms Henry is very upset. We (she) talked for fifteen minutes. I tried to explain that at this point in the design process that the City has limited input and that once the County's engineer has completed construction plans and done a cost estimate the plan would be presented to the City for review by both staff and Council. I told her that I would make a note of her concerns in our file and that City staff would look carefully at her situation once we are given the plans for review. I tried to convey that the plan is not set and that many opportunities exist for changes or refinements to what the final construction plans will include. City of Mendota Heights I&Iaf i[s7 7_\►1�1�J►�il November 9, 2005 Memo to: Mayor, Council Members, and City Administr From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Manager Subject: Dakota County Alternate Location for NURT (North Urban Regional Trail) Background: When this issue was last before the City Council for consideration, reconstruction of a portion of the Frontage Road, to minimize impact of the trail on two westerly properties, was estimated to cost $50,000.00. Council directed staff to inquire if alternate (non -City) funding was available. A request to the County for funding reconstruction of the roadway was brought before the County Board. The Board split three to three and directed county staff to further research funding options. County staff reported that the Federal Funding grant authorized for this trail construction could not be used for local road improvements. They next approached MN DOT which also stated that state funds were unavailable for local road improvements. Discussion: The MN DOT reconsidered the trail alignment and notified County staff that they had reversed their opinion and would now approve a mid -block crossing of the trail which would eliminate trail construction in front of the most westerly residence. Reconstruction of the frontage road would no longer be required. (See attached graphic of this option) Lynn Moratzka and Mary Jackson from the Dakota County Office of Planning have asked to be on tonight's agenda to present this trail alignment to City Council. Nancy Daubenberger, MN DOT South Metro Area Engineer for Scott and Dakota Counties, who has been involved with review of this project and the proposed design solution, will also be in attendance. Recommendation: Staff (Jim, Sue, and myself) considered three options: (1) mid -block trail crossing as presented by County staff; (2) re -submit funding request to the County Board; or (3) use of MSA funds to reconstruct Frontage Road and build trail along the north side of the Frontage Road. Staff recommends the City Council approve the trail alignment, with the mid -block crossing, as proposed by County staff. Action Required: Allow Ms Moratzka to present the latest trail alignment option. If City Council desires to implement staffs recommendation they should pass a motion accepting the revised trail alignment as presented by Dakota County staff. ATTACHMENT A I 11 1 n I 1 A. 11 1 11 If 11 1 1 �n YI I 1 11 ,q I h I a4 u I i u I I W a i w Z ui rn w aura 1 Z _ r p i r O 5 ' U ❑ w 4 � Y W Ir ° N O J0 co i CCI m x w ill X r LU _ asz Q. z CL _I z �r ❑ ;,` W w ,• , _ -- U `o «` / o z a- 0 p n w of n 0 cc z U) X Iry kr� w I s�.�uss 0 tu -- \tZ ZI, y II II I. it II 11 II INCIDENT SUMMARIES - PARKS 4U ` 01-03-2006 CN: 05004048 OFFENSE/INCIDENT: Arson/Damage to Property DATE: 11/5/2005 1:38:001 OFFICER: Rosse, T 2237 LOCATION: Marie Park SYNOPSIS: Responded to the above location concerning a portable toilet on fire. On scene, I observed smoke and flames coming the portable toilet near the warming house. The fire was knocked down with my squad extinguisher. Dispatch was updated. No suspects o witnesses. DICTATED CN: 05004069 OFFENSE/INCIDENT: Suspicious Vehicles DATE: 11/6/2005 7:34:001 OFFICER: Rosse, T 2237 LOCATION: Scenic Overlook SYNOPSIS: While on routine patrol, Mn plates #'s EPS486, MRR058 and PCX853 were observed in the park after park hours. One vehicle was found occupied and the driver advised, I could not locate the drivers of the other two vehicles. I checked back at a later time and the other two vehicles were gone. 10-8 CN: 05004244 OFFENSE/INCIDENT: Suspicious Vehicle DATE: 11/17/2005 7:23:0( OFFICER: Convery, B 2230 OCATION: Valley Park SYNOPSIS: Comp reported seeing a limosuine in the park parking lot that she has never seen before. Checked the area, vehicle GOA. Nothing further. CN: 05004258 OFFENSE/INCIDENT: Check the Welfare DATE: 11/18/2005 3:32:0( OFFICER: Lambert, B 2234 LOCATION: 825 Marie AVE W SYNOPSIS: Responded to Valley Park on a group of twenty teenagers jumping in the pond. Area was checked and nobody was found playing in the water. Officer cleared. CN: 05004549 OFFENSE/INCIDENT: Driving Complaint DATE: 12/9/2005 8:01:001 OFFICER: Meyer, Steve 2213 LOCATION: 739 Wentworth Ave. SYNOPSIS: Dispatched to vehicles driving on the ice rink. On arrival the vehicles were GOA/UTL. Thre were several tire tracks in the snow around the rink. No apparent damage. INCIDENT SUMMARIES - PARKS 01-03-2006 CN: 05004567 OFFENSE/INCIDENT: DOBs DATE: 12/10/2005 11:19:0 OFFICER: Willson, C 2238 LOCATION: Friendly Hills Park SYNOPSIS: Received complaint of kids playing hockey and vehicles on the ice. On arrival vehiclew were gone, but I made contact with two males on the ice. The males confirmed they had cars on the ice for lights. The vehicle then returned and others were advised of violations. They left the park. Cleared at 2330 hrs. CN: 05004616 OFFENSE/INCIDENT: Careless Driving DATE: 12/14/2005 8:35:0( OFFICER: Larrive, J 2206 LOCATION: Rogers Lake Park SYNOPSIS: Dispatched to location on a report of a red SUV driving carelessly in the area. I arrived and found several vehicle parked in the lower parking lot at the park. I also found a white passenger car stuck off of the roadway leading to the parking lot. There were tracks in the fresh snow leading up to where this vehicle was stuck. The driver was able to get the vehicle out with his friends pushing the vehicle and it did not appear to damage the ground. The driver of this vehicle will be mailed a ctation for Careless Driving. No further action. CN: 05004751 OFFENSE/INCIDENT: 4th Degree DWI DATE: 12/25/2005 1:03:0( OFFICER: Meyer, Steve 2213 LOCATION: 739 Wentworth Ave. SYNOPSIS: Dispatched to Wentworth Park on vehicles racing around in the park. On my arrival I observed a vehicle later identified as Minnesota license JPZ134 driving off the paved area of the parking lot, over snowbanks, and spinning doughnuts in the snow covered field next to the parking area. I then conducted a traffic stop in the parking lot of the park, identified the driver by his Minnesota picture ID card. Driver submited to and failed SFST's and was arrested for DWI. Passenger who was alos intoxicated was detoxed SEE DICTATED NARRATIVE.