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2007-01-09 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AGENDA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Tuesday, January 9, 2007 - 6:30 P.M. City Council Chambers 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approve Minutes of November 14, 2006, Parks and Recreation Commission 4. November and December Parks and Recreation Report 5. Parks and Recreation Commission Applicant Update 6. City Council Goal Setting Workshop 7. Completed 2006 Parks Improvements 8. Proposed Tennis Courts at Sibley High School 9. Sale of Park Land to Xcel Energy 10. Review Remaining Projects in Parks Five Year Plan (2005 through 2009) • Estimate 10 Year Revenues • Status of MHAA Requested Park Improvements 11. Updates : • Valley View Heights Neighborhood Park - see letter 12. Commission Comments 13. Adjourn Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities are available at least 120 hours in advance. If a notice of less than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make every attempt to provide the aids. This may not, however, be possible on short notice. Please contract City Administration at 651-452-1850. Draft CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING The November 2006 meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, November 14, 2006, 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 Richard Spicer, Commissioners Dave Libra, Tom Kraus, Paul Portz, Larry Craighead, Raymond Morris and Missie Hickey. City Staff present were Guy Kullander, Operations and Projects Coordinator, Teresa Gangelhoff, Recreational Programmer, Jake Sedlacek, Assistant to the City Administrator and Recording Secretary Nancy Bauer. MINUTES: Commissioner Libra moved approval of the minutes as amended, seconded by Commissioner Craighead. AYES: 7 NAYS: 0 Chair Spicer summarized the Recreation Programmer's report (attached). Commissioner Hickey asked who floods the ice rinks. Ms. Gangelhoff reported that three Public Works Park employees flood rinks with the help of several seasonal rink attendants. VALLEY PARK TENNIS COURTS Chair Spicer started the discussion by stating that the Commission is an advisory body to the City Council and it is the City Council who makes the final determination on funding issues. The original recommendation by the Parks Commission was that all of the city's five tennis courts be maintained. That does take money, and the Council takes money out a variety of funds such as the general fund. The Commission recommended maintaining the Valley Park tennis court and the Council rejected the recommendation, feeling there are more than enough tennis courts in the City including Visitation and Sibley tennis courts. The Parks Commission then decided to hold an Open House to get input from residents about the issue under discussion tonight. Mr. Kullander reported that all the tennis courts are 33 to 35 years old with asphalt bases. The seasonal freezing and thawing causes heaving and cracking of the asphalt. A top coat is applied to the asphalt base as a surface to play on. The top coat is reapplied every three to five years as it wears off. Page - 1 November 14, 12006 Draft After three or four applications of the top coat, the build up gets to be too much and then the courts have to be power blasted down to the asphalt base. Once you do this, you need to repair any structural cracking. Cracks in the base "transfer" up and through the top coat surface and reappear as cracks which have to be resealed each year. If you get moisture in the cracks, then the surfacing will lift off and large sections will come off and it becomes dangerous to play on. That is the condition of the Valley Park tennis courts today. The Valley Park tennis courts are one of the wettest of all five tennis courts in the city. The trees add shade, but that also keeps the water sitting on the courts. The soil conditions were not ideal when the courts were built, all that was done when it was constructed was to compact the soil, add Class 5, and then put down the asphalt. There is also clay in the soil which adds to the heaving of the soil and it that also makes it difficult to maintain. The courts should be resurfaced every three years and power blasted after every three or four cycles to get to the asphalt base. We can address structural cracks where one surface is higher than another. Years ago it was tried at the Ivy Park tennis courts where it was patched and new cracks developed. We can maintain the tennis courts to a safe playing condition, but they will never be a high quality competitive court. Valley Park is now at the stage where it needs to be power blasted and resurfaced and that costs about $11,000 - $12,000. It was also our intention to address the drainage issue. Water drains from the west across the trail and needs to be diverted. Funding options were given by Mr. Kullander for rebuilding the tennis courts or just fixing them. Chair Spicer said the Special Parks Fund has $250,000 in it. The Parks Commission has a five year plan that spends about $640,000 out of the Special Parks Fund. It would cost about $125,000 to rebuild the courts with a concrete base. There is no money to rebuild the courts. We are down to two options, option number one would be to go back to the Council and request the funding for maintaining the courts for $11,000 in order to keep the tennis courts open. Option number two would be to do something else to the tennis courts such as replace them with horseshoe pits or volleyball courts. We did ask the public for their input and we have received 17 emails. Roxanne Buchan and Ms. McNaab asked what kind of information the City Council used to decide that there were enough tennis courts in the city. They would like to beg to differ that there are not enough courts in the city, especially now that the Lilydale Tennis Club has closed and Visitation does not have an open invitation to use their courts. Visitation does offer summer tennis camps which keeps the tennis courts in use. Chair Spicer said the Council felt that there are 25 courts in the City (not including Valley Park) 8 city courts, 8 at Visitation and 9 at Sibley High School. National standards are one tennis court per city plus one additional court per every 1,000 population. Mendota Heights has a population of about 12,000 and 13 tennis courts would meet this guideline and 25 courts doubles the national guidelines. I think this is the information the Council may have made their decision on. Page - 2 November 14, 12006 Draft Ms. McNaab asked if the tennis programs in the city are full and Ms. Gangelhoff replied they were. The summer youth tennis program attracted 220 kids. Ms. McNaab asked about the tennis courts being redone at Sibley even though the bond issue failed. Chair Spicer informed Ms. McNabb that the previous (passed) bond was paying for the work on the tennis courts. Mr. Sedlacek replied that Sibley is appearing before the Planning Commission this month about reconstructing the tennis courts at Sibley and plan to add three more for a total of 12. Ms. Buchan said that the Sibley courts were well used this summer. Mr. Jay Pfaender of 720 Roundhill Road is President -Elect of the United States Tennis Association Northern Section and is in favor of resurfacing the Valley Park tennis courts. Mr. Pfaender set up a chart of tennis trends. Commissioner Portz asked Teresa how much usage there is with tennis courts. Ms. Gangelhoff replied that this was the first year she took reservations for the tennis courts and believes it's because of the closing of the Lilydale Tennis Club. The main reservations were for the Marie Park tennis courts. Seniors were using the Marie courts Monday through Friday mornings and a woman's group used them Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Other groups had also reserved the courts. Mr. Pfaender said that this information needs to be passed on to the City Council; tennis is growing again, play is up again and the number of players is growing. Tennis is growing by 10% and golf is down by 10%. The Tennis Channel and US Open is helping to increase the numbers. The numbers are for the national level and Twin Cities area. Tennis racquet and tennis ball sales are up. When Lilydale Tennis Club closed there were nine courts lost. Mr. Pfaender estimates that there are 1,000 to 1,500 tennis players from this community. Many adult tennis teams are scrambling to find tennis courts to play on. Commissioner Portz asked if there was a difference between playing on concrete vs. asphalt. Mr. Pfaender replied that he has played on a lot of concrete courts and they are fine. The characteristics of the ball is different on concrete vs. asphalt. Commissioner Kraus asked if Mr. Pfaender had any projections on the growth of tennis. Mr. Pfaender said he thinks the sport of tennis will keep growing but there is no study on it. Page - 3 November 14, 12006 Draft Holly Farber of Marie Avenue brought three generations of tennis players, mother-in-law, father- in-law and kids. She collected 170 signatures on petitions and said they were easy to get signed. She said there may be 25 tennis courts in Mendota Heights, but Valley is the only one for her to easily walk to. They choose to use Valley Park tennis courts because of the shade at the park and it's accessibility in the neighborhood. She thought it was pathetic that the Commission asked for $11,000 and didn't get it to maintain the tennis courts. There is new tax money corning from the Hidden Creek development and can't believe there is no money for the maintenance of the tennis courts. If the Valley Park tennis courts aren't maintained then people will go to the Marie Park tennis courts and it would be hard to use the courts because they are already being used. For senior citizens the tennis courts are an asset because of the shade from the trees. Four kids came up together and said; "we really like the tennis courts, we play on them a lot and hope they don't go away". Bob Burrow, 1 Hingham Circle, manages a tennis group and reported that the senior group plays three times a week and prefers to play outside in the summer. The Ivy Falls tennis courts were preferred at one time and then Valley Park became popular because of the tree cover. Mr. Burrow encourages the Parks Commission to recommend maintaining the tennis courts to the City Council as this would also maintain property values. Commissioner Portz asked when this was going to the City Council. Mr. Kullander responded that it would go on next Tuesday's City Council agenda if the Parks Commission made a recommendation tonight. Chair Spicer asked if the people interested in maintaining the tennis courts should attend the City Council meeting. Mr. Kullander responded that residents should attend and some Council Members do watch the Park and Recreation meeting and will hear the comments made at tonight's Parks meeting. Mr. David Gardner, 724 Roundhill Road, spoke that last spring the tennis club in Lilydale closed and forced citizens to search for new courts. The Valley Park tennis courts are in a great location because of the surrounding woods providing protection from the sun and wind which can disrupt play. Since finding the Valley Park tennis courts he and his grandfather have been playing and practicing every day after school. They noticed the notice posted and strongly advise the City to maintain the tennis courts. The location of the tennis courts is convenient for the neighborhood with the trail system running through the park; people can easily walk to these courts. Mr. Gardner and his grandfather who have been playing on the tennis courts met other people who are outraged with the idea the tennis courts being taken down. A resident of eight years on Trail Road said that she felt that she moved to a resort when moving to Trail Road and votes that the courts should be kept and maintained. Lots of families use the courts. The shade aspect of the courts is nice and if closed the Marie Park courts would get congested. Page - 4 November 14, 12006 Draft Commissioner Morris thought $11,000 was a modest amount for the maintenance of the Valley Park tennis courts, and rather than the maintenance, he would like to see them reconstructed. Another issue that is being looked at later tonight is replacing playground equipment for $57,000. The city hasn't had a bonding bill since 1989 to help the parks. Maintaining the tennis court would be like putting a band aid on the issue. "Why I mention this is because many of our parks are in serious trouble and money is needed. We have the lowest tax rate, but citizens want the highest services but we can't have both. Maybe we need a bonding bill to fix the parks. The Valley Park tennis courts need to be fixed but we don't have the funds and we should go further then just fixing the courts". Commissioner Morris further explained that Mendota Heights' residents enjoy some of the lowest taxes in the Twin Cities; that low taxation and high services are not compatible. Ron Smith, 2357 Swan Drive, a 45 year resident of Mendota Heights supports the Valley Park tennis courts being resurfaced to make them playable again. It's not in good condition and that is why his group doesn't use the Valley Park tennis courts. He hopes along with the recommendation for Valley Park that all courts should be renewed. Sally Loberbaum, 890 Douglas Road, commended the Parks and Recreation to get input about the Valley Park tennis courts. She hopes the City Council sends out notices to residents by the tennis courts, so they know what is going on with the courts. Ms. Loberbaum hopes the Parks and Recreation Commission recommends that this issue goes before the City Council. Elena Elkhoury, 635 Quail Ridge Circle, said her four kids joined the youth tennis program and Valley Park tennis courts are the only courts where they can practice. At Valley Park they don't need to cross busy highways. The kids bike or walk to the courts. If the courts are busy they play on the swings and other equipment in the park. It is her daughter's birthday and they felt they had to come and speak at tonight's meeting. Commissioner Portz asked what the capacity is at Valley Park. He believes it's not over capacity. He believes that Visitation is not open to the public and it is on private property. The courts have gotten more use with the closing of the Lilydale Tennis Club and Teresa proved that with the permits she has issued. We had a nice presentation about the growth of tennis. Valley should be kept in service and more should be done to do it right — with a concrete base. Hidden Creek money is spent. Commissioner Morris made a good point and the Commission should think about a bonding issue. Commissioner Craighead commented that he walks on the trail by Valley Park and used to play on the tennis courts at Valley Park. He has also played at Sibley and the grounds at Sibley are mushy and not draining properly causing the courts to be bad 10 years later. The drainage problem at the Valley Park tennis courts needs to be addressed if the courts are resurfaced — so five years from now we don't relive this problem again. Commissioner Kraus has seen a number of groups come before the Parks and Recreation Commission requesting things for the parks, but the resources aren't there to meet all the needs or requests. The Parks and Recreation Commission needs to figure out what is important to the Page - 5 November 14, 12006 Draft community. I am supportive of suggesting the maintenance of the Valley Park tennis courts to the City Council. We will be facing this same problem with other tennis courts in the city in the next year or two. We need to figure out the needs of other assets in our city parks. We need to do the band aid approach for the Valley Park tennis courts now, but also need to think of long term solutions. Commissioner Morris said that Mendota Heights Athletic Association asked for 6 million dollars originally and that was revised down to $100,000 and that benefits thousands of kids. Our five year capital plan from 2005-2009 spends $633,000 to maintain the parks with a band aid approach. I support the band aid approach but something needs to be done long term. Commissioner Kraus said we need community input of what's important to the community. Commissioner Morris said the comments are excellent and there has been lack of follow up on maintenance in the parks. Money was committed to this court but wasn't spent. "The thought that these courts are less useful after many new houses were built within a mile radius is incredible -to think — Hagstrom King was going to have a tennis court built and they never were and Rogers Lake was taken out of commission - we're losing the battle on some of these facilities. I think this funding for the $11,000 should go forward. The tennis community and the City Council needs to communicate. The City is foolish to shut down these court and let them go to weeds". Chair Spicer said there is a workshop in January with the City Council and one of the items to discuss is park issues. There needs to be talk about a referendum but that takes a lot of public support. There are 22 miles of trails to resurface and maintain that takes a lot of money. We have been using the band aid approach for 19 years. A lot of our park items have a life expectancy and they are coming to the end of their life expectancy and it's time to plan further ahead. I was dismayed when they wouldn't give us $11,000 and I am happy the public showed UP. Commissioner Craighead made a motion to move this item before City Council for $11,000 and put in proper drainage for the Valley Park tennis courts, Commission Morris seconded the motion. AYES 7 NAYS 0 IVY HILL PARK Chair Spicer introduced the Ivy Park playground equipment that was suppose to be rehabilitated this year according to the five year plan and was budgeted for $35,000 and was increased by $22,000 to around $57,000. Mr. Kullander reported that Ivy Park was scheduled for 2006, but because of the age of the equipment the replacement cost was estimated to be $50,000 plus and was moved to 2007 for installation early in the year. Page - 6 November 14, 12006 Draft Commissioner Morris made a motion to accept Guy's plan as written and do the work early in 2007. Commissioner Kraus seconded the motion. Commissioner Hickey asked if it went out for bid would it be in the same price range. Mr. Kullander responded that it is done on a national competitive bidding process that resulted in a price decrease of 6% on the equipment. Earl F. Anderson has been accepted by this Commission for many projects for their pricing and quality of their products. Their products are very high quality and carry a 10 year warranty. The existing components at Ivy Park are still sound but don't meet the current guidelines or the ADA guidelines for accessibility. If we try to replace one component then you are obligated to replace all other components. That is why this replacement is a little higher than the original working budget in the five year plan. Commissioner Morris stated that this park is always used. Mr. Kullander said he will also schedule the trail work after the playground improvements. The outside timbers will go, swings will stay and the pea rock will be removed to make it ADA accessible. It will be in the same spot the old equipment is at. AYES 7 NAYS 0 FIVE YEAR PLAN Guy listed several new projects/requests and asked the Commission if they wanted to reprioritize projects in the five year plan. Chair Spicer responded let's talk about that at the next meeting and give us some options. Commissioner Craighead asked about trail items not being on the five year plan. We keep upgrading and fixing parks and we need to get back to original items on the plan. Mr. Kullander responded that some trails have been removed from the list because construction costs would not come out of the Special Park Fund but from another funding source. The trails have not been forgotten. Commissioner Morris said some trails need to be ripped up and redone. Commissioner Kraus said we need to prioritize issues — we do things when letters come in requesting things. We spend the month talking about that issue. Before we talk to the City Council we need to prioritize things and asked what is that process. Chair Spicer said Guy has been good through the years and asks for our input and then makes a list of things we need to get done. We then work off that list. Page - 7 November 14, 12006 Draft Mr. Kullander said that is the five year plan, it is not set in stone, it is just used as a guide and sets a budget for the $120,000 per year. Things do get shuffled around. Commissioner Kraus asked if there was a better method to consider. Mn Kullander said he would update the plan with the input he got tonight. Mr. Kullander talked about the January goal setting session the City Council will hold in January and said there will be several park issues on the Council's agenda. Chair Spicer said we need to talk to Council about differences such as the annual celebration and funding for park work. Commissioner Libra said Guy has done a lot with the playgrounds over the last five years by bringing them up to ADA guidelines. Commissioner Craighead said the five year plan needs to be looked at again in the future. Chair Spicer asked if there should be a December meeting, and if there is no meeting in December, that Commissioners could email Guy with suggestions for items for Council to discuss at their workshop, or they could meet before the Council's workshop. Mr. Kullander suggested that the Parks Commission may want to consider including a survey in a future city newsletter asking what facilities residents do you use, would you want to pay more taxes for park upgrades, and are you interested in a bond issue as some sample questions. PAR 3 UPDATE Jake gave a verbal update on Par 3 saying the Comprehensive Plan Amendment went before the Planning Commission last month and was tabled. No legal action has been taken the issue. The meeting adjourned at 8:10 P.M. Page - 8 November 14, 12006 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS Date: JANURARY 4.2007 To: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION From: TERESA GANGELHOFF RE: NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER 2006 PARKS AND RECREATION REPORT Safety Camp am working with VFW, WSP and SSP and planning for next years camp to be held August, 14,15,16, 2007 Tennis met with Tim Garvey our tennis instructor in December to go over plans for next year's tennis program, we hope to continue the same programming we offered this past summer, trying to increase the numbers in a few of the classes and possibly still running a small tournament the morning of the park celebration on June 2"d, 2007. We also hope to work with USTA and run a Welcome back to Tennis Program for Seniors with neighboring cities. I applied for a Block Party Grant to be held in conjunction with this years Park Celebration. Ice Rinks It has been the worst season on record for the rinks!!! We have not opened because of the unseasonably warm weather. We are hoping to open Jan. 13 if the weather cooperates this next week! Flyers Flyers went to all schools in early December for holiday and winter activities. Youth Trips Holiday trips were very well attended. 24 kids went Bowling and Swimming and 26 kids went to Grand Slam and Skateville. Spring break trips are in place and we are taking registrations for them already. We plan to go to the new Water Park of America by the MOA. And another new trip to Pump it Up, where they climb, jump and play in all inflatables. Cheerleading Cheerleading lessons are moving to Mendota School this February for 12 weeks. The first session finished up in December with over 30 kids involved. The cost is $66.00 for ages 4 and up. Cheer America will provide the instructors and run the program for us. Gymnastics This class is held Saturday mornings for boys and girls 3 yrs. and up. We have a winter session starting in January. The fall program wrapped up in December. Ice Skating Lessons Our skating instructor -Rebecca is back and will be offering lessons on Saturdays starting in January at Friendly Hills Rink for 5 weeks. At this time I have 4 sessions full. Registrations are closed. The first session is cancelled because of no ice! We will move the program one week later. The cost this year is $32.00 for the 5 sessions. Programming am presently lining up all the summer activities and will have those ready for the February meeting. The Park Celebration is being planned for June 2 and the fishing derby is planned for July 11, 2007 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO DATE: January 4, 2007 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Jake Sedlacek, Assistant to the City Administrator SUBJECT: Parks and Recreation Commission Applicant Update Discussion Two Parks Commission seats were due to expire in January of 2007. Commissioner Paul Portz expressed his desire to be re -appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Commissioner Dave Libra has termed out, meaning that new applicants have been sought for his seat on the commission. As a returning commissioner, Paul Portz was re -appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission at the January 2, 2007 City Council meeting. In his letter to City Administrator Jim Danielson, Paul cited his desire to be involved in the city, the opportunity to be a part of special events and his respect for his fellow commissioners among his reasons for seeking re- appointment. There are three applicants for the seat being left by Commissioner Libra. Sally Lorberbaum is a former Planning Commissioner and a resident of 27 years. Brian Hallman serves on the MHAA Board, and is an eight-year resident with two school-age youth. Nancy Hester is a seven-year resident, who has expressed interest in serving on either the Parks and Recreation Commission or the Planning Commission. There are also six additional applicants for the Planning Commission which currently has three openings. Council will often ask these applicants have interest in serving on any other commissions, which could change the make-up of the candidates for the Parks and Recreation Commission. Interviews for all commission applicants will be held January 16, prior to the Council meeting. The hope is that the new commissioners will be chosen and appointed at the January 16 City Council meeting. Commission Action Required None. City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM January 3, 2007 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: City Council Goal Setting Workshop Background: The City Council has selected February 9th as the day they plan to hold their 2007 Goal Setting Workshop. City Administrator Jim Danielson, is the only staff member at this workshop. This workshop is held each year to identify specific goals or areas of interest the Council desires to implement or ones they wish to further discuss after receiving additional information or input from one or more of the City's three Commissions (Planning, Parks & Recreation or Airport Relations). Discussion: City Council has asked Mr. Danielson to place the following issues on the agenda under the heading of "Park Items or Issues". 1. Par 3 Golf Course - (Possible issues include: 1. City acquire ?, 2. Bond referendum ?, 3. Develop housing -19 lots on 17.5 acres, 4. other ?) 2. MHAA - update on their request for various park facility improvements and City funding support. 3. Pilot Knob - acquisition of additional 15 acres from Acacia Cemetery 4. Annual Parks Celebration - possible expansion of activities offered (street dance band, 5K races, fireworks, etc.) Issues: 1. City role beyond regular 3 hr. youth event at Mendakota, 2. Private group to organize & operate, 3. Fundraising, 4. Other ? The Parks and Recreation Commission have previously identified the following issues as ones they would like the City Council to consider or address. 5. Additional funding source for Special Park Fund - revenue from new development dedication fees are cyclical, declining and are no longer a reliable revenue source to allow for long term planning or response to unanticipated requests or opportunities. 6. Creation of a full-time (or equivalent) Recreation Programmer position Probable follow up after completion of this workshop: Staff may be directed to research specific issues or prepared background materials for submission to the Parks and Recreation Commission for discussion or review to be followed with a recommendation to the City Council. Recommendation: If Commission members have additional items they wish considered for inclusion on the above list I will forward them on to the City Administrator who prepares the agenda for this Council Goal Setting Workshop (additional agenda items are at his discretion). This workshop usually lasts about two hours and most agenda items are briefly discussed and assigned to staff for follow up action. City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM December 28, 2006 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator "-�w Subject: COMPLETED - 2006 - PARK IMPROVEMENTS: Background: The following is a list of various park improvements completed in 2006 and several projects approved by City Council in 2006 for early completion in 2007. The Public Works Department park crew (funded from the City General Fund) provided assistance and oversight for many of these projects. PROJECTS FUNDED FROM THE SPECIAL PARK FUND: 1. Installation of new 16 foot high backstops at three youth ball fields - Wentworth Park, Valley Park, and Marie Park 2. Civic Center ball field - extension of backstop support posts and addition of steel cables to support netting above home plate (netting to be installed in spring by PW) 3. Batting cage at Mendakota Park - Addition of rec-rock inside fencing to level batting areas - Addition of overhead steel cables to provide more net attachment options to decrease sagging of nets 4. Replacement of the playground at Valley View Heights Park - old wood structure and border timbers were removed and new components installed (turf restoration an connecting trail - 2007) 5. (2006/2007) Valley Park - Removal and replacement of border timbers and some play components 6. (2006/2007) Ivy Hill Park - Remo val and replacement of border timbers, surfacing and most play components. 7. (2007) Bleacher Pads in various parks - Companion project in conjunction with a Dakota County Community De velopment Agency block grant for removal of handicap barriers in City parks. (Project is to install hard surface pathways to picnic shelters and ball field viewing areas) SPECIAL PARK FUNDS & CITY GENENRAL FUND - BUDGET FOR PARK MAINTENANCE: 8. Upgrade of electrical control panel for Lake Aerator operations in Roger's Lake Park PRIVATE DONATION: 9. Donated Park Bench installed by parks crew at intersection of Marie Avenue & Lilac Lane CITY GENERAL FUND & SPECIAL PARK FUNDS & STATE AID FUNDS & ASSESSMENTS 10. Trail improvements in the Industrial Park (Pilot Knob Rd, Northland Dr, & Mendota Heights Rd) - Reconstruction / replacement of 1,100 lineal feet of existing trail - Overlay of 3,700 lineal feet of existing trail with two inches of new asphalt - Construction of 3,000 lineal feet of new trail segments - Total improvements involved approximately 1.5 miles of trails CITY GENERAL FUND - BUDGET FOR PARK MAINTENANCE: 11. Buckthorn (invasive plant) over -spray of park areas in which mature buckthorn plants had been removed from City parks during the past four years (Copperfield Ponds, Hagstrom-King Park, Kensington Park, Friendly Hills Park, Wentworth Park, Ivy Park, Marie Park, Roger's Lake Park and Victoria -Highlands Park. 12. Removal of volunteer trees and brush adjacent to trails through undeveloped park areas. Intention was to "open up a safe area", a minimum of four feet on each side of trail and to remove trees and brush that obscured safe line -of -sight for trail users. Total length of trail segments involved totaled approximately 2.7 miles. - Roger's Lake Park: Park south to Mendota Heights Road - Valley Park: Dodd / Hwy 110 west and north to Marie Avenue - Valley Park: Marie Avenue northerly to Bluff Circle - Friendly Hills Park: Park southerly on easement to Bridgeview Circle 13. (2007) Resurface Valley Park tennis courts and routine maintenance of tennis courts in four other parks (Wentworth, Friendly Hills, Marie, and Ivy Hill Parks). 14. Installation / extension of storm sewer and turf restoration at Marie Park tennis court entrance. 15. Replacement of sunken concrete approach panels at the trail bridge located in the Bridgeview housing development north of Mendota Heights Road off Bridgeview Court. 16. Valley Park: re -alignment of creek bed adjacent to trail (near bridge crossing) that was causing hazardous erosion of bank and undermining of trail. I - Discussion: The above park improvement projects, funded from a variety of sources, are ones in which I am involved in the planning, coordination, budgeting, funding approvals, and selection / oversight of contractors or vendors. All other park maintenance efforts or tasks (funded from the City General Fund) including direction and oversight, is done by the Public Works Department Parks Leadsperson Terry Blum. The 2007 City Budget provides the same level of funding as last year for: 1. Eradication of Invasive Plants (buckthorn) from City Parks $12,000 (over -spray clearedareas andbegin removal in Valley Park) 2. Trail Maintenance $45,000 (tentative project areas.- Wachtler.- Cherry Hill to Wentworth, Valley Park segments, Ivy Hill Park and Huber Drive: Delaware to Mendota Heights Rd. in conjunction with street reconstruction project) 3. Funding level of $18,000 for Tennis Court maintenance (all ten courts -five locations) Action Required: This memo is for information only. City of Mendota Heights January 5, 2007 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: Proposed Tennis Courts at Sibley High School Background: This Independent School District 197 project to resurface three of the existing tennis courts, to remove six other existing courts and to construct nine new courts was discussed with the Commission last November. Discussion: The attached article explains that the original amount budgeted for tennis court upgrades may not be sufficient with the planned upgrades presented to City staff. When new information becomes available, after their bid process and review is completed, staff will update the Commission. Action Required: This memo is for information only. ICA South 'St. Paul, Inver Grove Heights, West St. Paul &_ Mendota Heights Sun -Current -Thursday, Dec. 28, 2006 it ' O%t ti'elm N District 107.'a ut h or i Z e 8'.' thought to be a $27,000 project when the improvement plan was established. g b d S but- dISCUSSe5t District.staff. -estimated that bids for -ttie �. project could now. come in around $750;000. � O u.l } W le the boa rdauthorized bids for other o pti n:sJC r Co lS the .courts; a . number of board .new directors -'expressed concern about the GRANT BOELTER SUN NEWSPAPERS' potential cost: There' was talk of looking . at other options. The serve has been made; but the "I'm hesitant at.this point to include:, ensuing volley will, determine. whether ` [the.tennis e9tirts] until we.have a better or not student athletes at Henry Sibley sense of what's out there," said Director High School are playing on. new tennis Riene Shiffman. ' =c courts year Director Kent Mogler'said the district _next The West St.Paul-Mendota_11 fights- should explore the -possibility of part - Eagan District- 197 Board_ of Education - nering with. a private organization to voted Dec. 18 to authorize bids fora num-" -absorb:soiree" of the cost. ber of capitalprojects to be completed this As it, is -planned;. there would still be 'the summer. The projects include. new tennis - courts at the high school, a new wood floor nine courts ori site, .but some room . would be added for bleacher seating and a for the gym and pool repairs at Heritage. hill adjacent to the courts would have to be Middle School and minor improvements -graded to curb water damage. to the, new at Friendly Hills Middle. School. courts._ Construction would take place this The projects are all includedin in the . _.. summer after the boys' tennis season in summer laid out by the passage of a $56 mil- ishes, and would be completed.in time for - lion bond referendum approved in 2004... the start of.- the girls' season in the fall. But with the tennis courts,. there's a In other District 197 news:. catch. It was originally thought, that the surface of the..school's nine tennis courts The board" approved .a ,.resolution ; allowing for the.:aand acquisition and could be replaced by simply replacing construction of --a new. special education the material used on the -courts. But fur- facility for District 917, which is -a coop-. ther investigation :revealed that -the soil erative district funded by Dakota County . conditions underneath :caused the pres- school districts, with the exception of ent courts to crack School District 196; which :has its...own If new courts -Were to be constructed; 'a.. special education program. The facility and would, have to be laid:.._ 5 -foot layer of sand*. will be adjacent to 'the. Dakota County down underneath the courts to preventthe Technical College campus in Rosemount. same thing from Happening in the future, The project is expected to cost $618,000, which drives-. up. the cost- of what was with District 197 paying $95,000. 0: 0 T -- L L OL- ff CL z —LLI --------- -- mmm sn OEM 7E) 0 .(D a) C: 0 U) >0 c: E CY) a)(3 3? ao- tV a) 0 >1 0 F- 'o C)(3) w C) CN .Ji ----- -- --- cn 0 T -- L L OL- ff CL z —LLI --------- -- mmm sn OEM City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM January 5, 2007 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator r Subject: Sale of Parkland to Xcel Energy Background: Xcel Energy submitted a request to purchase a one acre parcel of land in the northerly part of Valley Park. This parcel was originally acquired by the City in the late 1960's for installation of a portion of the City's sanitary sewer trunk lines. The land was later designated as part of Valley Park and currently the paved trail exits this park at Lilydale Road near the Xcel gas valve controls area off Sibley Memorial Highway. Discussion: The City engaged the services of an appraiser who placed a valuation of $24,000.00 on this approximate one acre parcel. At the December 5'h, 2006 meeting the City Council approved the sale to Xcel Energy and accepted the staff recommendation that the proceeds from the sale be placed in the Special Park Fund. Action Required: This memo is for information only, no action is required. Sale of parkland parcel to Excel Energy City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM January 5, 2007 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: Review Remaining Projects in Parks Five Year (2005 thru 20091 Capital Improvement Plan Background: At the November 2006 meeting the Commission directed staff to prepare or update information regarding several issues: (1) Parks Five Year (2005 thru 2009) Capital Improvement Plan (completed and remaining projects) (See attached - CIP revised /updated - January 5, 2007) (2) Update of ten year revenue forecast of Special Park Fund (See attached forecast - updated /revised - January 5, 2007) (3) Summarize status of park improvements requested by MHAA. A. Civic Center ball field netting over backstop / home plate. Pole extensions and cables installed in December. Net to be installed by PW in spring. Estimated cost $3,500.00 B. Mendakota Park batting cage. PW has placed and leveled additional rec-rock. Support cables added to provide more connection opportunities to keep nets from sagging. Estimated cost $3,100.00. (Terry believes new nets not necessary at this time) If the Commission desires to proceed with one or more of the following projects they should make a recommendation to the City Council for "Concept and Special Park Funding approval" before directing staff to proceed further with plans and specifications. If the Commission desires to schedule these projects in the current Parks Five Year (2005- 2009) Capital Improvement Plan they should either identify those projects they wish removed from the plan and those they wish to move to a future year or the "next Five Year CIPO C. Civic Center ball field shelter over players benches (2 shelters) - Estimate $15,000 - Move outfield fence in twenty feet - Estimate $10,000 - Install batting cage & pitching mound - $15,000 D. Mendakota Park shelters over players benches (8 shelters) - Estimate $ $50,000 E. Hagstrom-King Park - upgrade youth softball field to youth baseball - Outfield fence - $10,000 - Baseline fences - $6,000 - Netting over backstop - $3,000 - Shelter over players benches - $7,000 for two - Parking if off-street required, estimate @ $1,000 per parking stall F. Friendly Hills Park - upgrade youth softball field to youth baseball - same cost items as "E" above G. Mendakota Park - storage building for MHAA equipment (would also provide storage for Cityparksupplies) - Estimate $25,000 to $40,000 H. Friendly Marsh Park - re -grade for full-size football field - Estimate $40,000 - Gravel parking area for 40 cars - $15,000 - Amenities and some lighting for entrance & trailway - $12,000 I. Scoreboards at various ball fields (Civic Center, Mendakota (4), Hagstrom-King, Friendly Hills) - Estimate $6,000 to $10,000 per scoreboard Discussion: In addition to the park improvements requested by MHAA staff has a list of other suggested projects or improvements that have been discussed during the past several years, most of which were listed the attached memo dated October 5, 2006. Recommendation: Review the materials presented and provide direction to staff. Action Required: If the Commission wishes to modify the current Parks Five Year CIP, make a recommendation to City Council to approve revised project list and to approve funding from the Special Park Fund. City of Mendota Heights Parks Five Year (2005 thru 2006) Capital Improvement Plan Adopted by Parks & Recreation Commission in August 2004 Note: The Commission desired total cost of omiects from Snerial Park Fund to avarana R11 SK nar vaar Plan revised 1-5-07 to reflect current schedule and priorities. (gk) BUDGET FINAL COST 2005 1. Wentworth Park -Playground Rehabilitation $55 K $50,000 2. Marie Park -Playground Replacement $45 K $38,000 3. Park & Trail Signage - City Wide ($ 6 K) Reschedule 2007 4. Roger's Lake Park -Additional skate park components $10 K $27,000 Total Projects $110 K $115,000.00 2006 Total Projects $115 K $157,000.00 1. Victoria Highlands -Playground Rehabilitation $35 K Reschedule 2008 2. Ivy Hills -Playground Rehabilitation $35 K Reschedule 2007 (a)$55K 3. Friendly Hills -asphalt path to tennis courts in lieu of bridge $ 4K Reschedule 2007 -CDBG 4. Replace youth softball backstops @ 3 parks @ $7 K each $21 K $20,000 5. Friendly Hills -Replace hockey rink lights $20 K Reschedule 2009 6. Valley View Heights Park (from 2007 project list)) - - - $30,000 7. Valley Park (from 2008 project list) ... $35,000 8. Trial on Wachtler (needed segment) - - - $ 7,000 9. Backstop netting at Civic Center - - - $ 5,000 10. Wachtler/Hwy 13 (Opus) trails - - - $60,000 11. Bleacher pads in 9 parks (companion with CDBG) ($14 K) Reschedule 2007 Total Projects $158 K or $174 K (2009 - #6) Estimate: 2005 thru 2009 expenditures for Capital Improvement Projects = $660,000.00 (Avg.=$132 K per year) Note: Does not include overhead and other yearly expensed deducted from Special Park Fund Total Projects $115 K $157,000.00 2007 1. Friendly Hills -Playground Rehabilitation $45 K ??? (May be rescheduled) 2. Valley View Heights (Curley's Tot Lot) -Replace playground ($35 K) Completed in 2006 3. Trails (.52 miles) on Wachtler & Hwy. 13 (Econ -Lab site) ($50 K) Completed in 2006 4. Ivy Hill Playground Rehabilitation (rescheduled from 2006) $55 K 5. Park & Trail Signage (rescheduled from 2005) $ 6K 6. Bleacher pads in 9 parks (rescheduled from 2006) $14 K Total Projects $120 K or $75 K (2007- #1) 2008 1. Roger's Lake -Playground Rehabilitation (westerly area) $40 K 2. Valley Park -Playground Rehabilitation ($40 K) Completed in 2006 3. Victoria Highlands -Picnic Shelter $30 K 4. Victoria -Highlands Playground (rescheduled from 2006) $40 K Total Projects $110 K 2009 1. Kensington Park -Playground Rehabilitation $30 K 2. Mendakota Park -Playground Rehabilitation $40 K 3. Mendakota Park -Sand volleyball court $ 8K 4. Hagstrom-King Park -Picnic shelter $30 K 5. Ivy Hills -Picnic Shelter $30 K 6. Matching funds for safety fences @ 4 youth softball fields ($16 K) Reconsider or Delete @ Mendota & Somerset schools -School District 197 7. Friendly Hills- hockey lights (rescheduled from 2006) $20 K Total Projects $158 K or $174 K (2009 - #6) Estimate: 2005 thru 2009 expenditures for Capital Improvement Projects = $660,000.00 (Avg.=$132 K per year) Note: Does not include overhead and other yearly expensed deducted from Special Park Fund City of Mendota Heights Background Information for Review of Five Year Plan January 5, 2007 (Revised October 40, 2006-Orig. memo - August 23, 2006) Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator Subject: Special Park Fund - Projected (10 year) Revenues 2007 thru 2016 Background: The Parks and Recreation Commission, in preparation of a possible re -prioritizing, addition to or modifications of projects in the current Parks Five Year (2005 thru 2009) Capital Improvement Plan, directed that I prepare a revenue forecast of future park dedication fees. 1. Existing balance in fund as of August 1, 2006 $273,144.05 2. Estimated 2006 Expenditures (2 playgrounds & 3 backstops) - ($ 80,000.00) 3. Dedication Fees from Approved projects: a. Town Center - all fees from this project "pass thru" the Special Park Fund and are -0- dedicated for Park and landscape improvements in this development (2007/2008) b. Opus "Summit of Mendota Heights" - approved 113 units @ $2,700 = $305,100 less $66,600 for trails. Fees tied to construction of units: Payments expected late 2006 thru early 2008 (as of 72-31-06 City received $42, 000) Finaltotal = $238,500.00 4. The Commission has maintained a balance in the Special Park Fund of approximately $250,000 to $300,000. Invested funds earn $7,000 to $11,000 per year. Est. annual @a $9,000x 10 years = $ 90,000-00 5. Possible dedication fees generated from development of new lots or housing units: A number of parcels have been identified that at some time within the next ten (10) years may be split or sub -divided creating new single family lots or units. a. 13 acre parcel off Orchard Place - est. 15 lots x $2,700 = $ 40,500.00 b. 60'acre parcel off Hwy 55 - 62 units x $2,700 = $167,400.00 c. 8 acre parcel off Wentworth - est. 8 units x $2,700 = $ 21,600.00 d. Multiple parcels off Wagon Wheel - est. 10 x $2,700= $ 27,000.00 e.13 acre parcel off Hwy 55 owned by City of Mendota Heights - If sold for: - Housing: 36 units x $2,700 = $ 97,200.00 - Commercial: 10% land value = $300,000.00 f. 8 acre parcel off Acacia Blvd. Zoned "Industrial' owned by City - If sold for this use -10% land value = $160,000.00 g. 4+ acre parcels off Dodd Rd - est. 6 lots x $2,700 = $ 16,200.00 h. Various lot splits throughout City - est. 30 lots x $2,700 = $81,000 i. Par 3 Golf (future unknown), if SF develops: 19 lots x $2,700= $ 51,300.00 j. 15 acres east of Pilot Knob Rd. owned by Acacia Cemetery - possible acquisition and preserved as Open Space 6. Possible funds available for Capital Improvements: /fa//of the developments noted in item #5 occur, are added to #1, #3 and #4 above less 2006 expenditures in #2, the result is approximately 1.2mi1/ion dollars overa ten yearperiod. If the Commission limits expenditures to an average $100,000.00 per year for Capital Park Improvements the remaining "reservenfund would be approximately $200, 000. 00. Action Required: No action is required; this memo is for information only City of Mendota Heights MEMORANDUM October 5, 2006 Memo to: Parks and Recreation Commission and Assistant to the City Administrator From: Guy Kullander, Operations & Projects Coordinator A - Subject: Parks Five Year (2005 thru 2009) Capital Improvement Plan Background: Following discussions related to construction of new facilities requested by MHAA the Commission directed me to prepare a summary and status of the projects selected by the Commission to include in the cu rrent Parks Five Year (2005 thru 2009) Capital Improvement Plan. Attachments. 1. Status of all projects in current Five Year Plan - Updated 10-05-06 2. Ten year projection of potential Park Dedication Fees - Revised 10-04-06 Discussion: The MH Athletic Association has requested a number of capital improvements that the Commission may wish to consider including in the current five year plan. Following is a list of MHAA requested projects and other projects previously considered by the Commission. MHAA Requested Proiects Other Proiects Hooded backstop at Civic Center Ball field $5,000 Dodd Rd. Trail: Town Center to Marie $60,000 Hooded backstop at Hagstrom-King $12,000 Trails if Par 3 develops $55,000 Hooded backstop at Friendly Hills $12,000 Tennis band -boards @ $6,000 per park $30,000 Move outfield fence at Civic Center $8,000 Picnic Shelter at Marie Park $30,000 Batting cage at Civic Center $8,000 Wentworth Park hockey lights $25,000 Covered players benches at Civic Center (2) $12,000 Wentworth Park -pave hockey rink $45,000 Covered players benches at Mendakota (8) $48,000 Landscape enhancements at Valley Park $15,000 Outfield fences at Hagstrom-King Park $10,000 Wentworth Park Warming House $60,000 -Enlarge parking lot $12,000 Marie Park -pave hockey rink $45,000 Outfield fences at Friendly Hills Park $10,000 Ivy Hill Park picnic shelter $30,000 Storage building at Mendakota Park $25,000 Pond fountain at Wentworth $7,000 Storage lock -box at Hagstrom-King $2,000 Pond fountain at Ivy Hill Park $7,000 Storage lock -box at Friendly Hills Park $2,000 Double tennis courts at Hagstrom-King Park $100,000 Ball field complex 4-6 fields + amenities $4.7 million Boat launch at Roger's Lake Park $6,000 Sports lighting at Mendakota Park (4 fields) $350,000 Lake aerator stairway at Roger's Lake Park $20,000 Sports lighting at Civic Center $125,000 Enhance native plants, etc @ Copperfield Ponds $25,000 Inflatable dome with basketball courts $1 million Sand volleyball court at Mendakota Park $8,000 Full size football field + amenities $35 to $60,000 Picnic shelter in Hagstrom-King park $30,000 Construct trail segments: Approximate total = $6,386,000.00 - Hwy 13 (Opus to Lilydale Rd) $75,000 - Victoria Rd. (Celia to Celia) $45,000 - Dodd (Mendakota park to Wagon Wheel) $25,000 - Wagon Wheel (Dodd to Lexington) $100,000 Approximate total = $843, 000.00 Action Required: Review the information and provide direction to staff. DAVID L. AYERS* HAROLD H. RIEHM AYERS & RIEHM PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION LAWYERS SUITE 100 RIVERWOOD PLACE 880 SIBLEY MEMORIAL HIGHWAY MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MN 55118-1736 www. ayersriehm.com FAX: 651-552-2207 TELEPHONE: 651-552-8400 December 13, 2006 City of Mendota Heights Mendota Heights City Hall 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 ATTENTION: MAYOR, COUNCIL and PARK BOARD MEMBERS Re: Valley View Heights Neighborhood Park Dear Mayor, Council and Park Board Members: On behalf of all my wonderful neighbors, I am writing to extend a sincere thanks to all of you for the Christmas and Hanukkah present that was recently delivered to the Valley View Heights Neighborhood Park. The entire playground system is a welcomed improvement to our neighborhood. I'm sure many of the neighborhood kids (and grandkids) will be using the playground — already this year — before the snow flies. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know how much we appreciate the work all of you do for the City, as a whole, as well as for our neighborhood. And, thanks for remembering our neighborhood park. Best wishes for a happy holiday and a healthy and prosperous New Year. ours DLA/pjl P.S. My instincts tell me that Guy Kullander had something to do with all of this. So, thanks also to Guy for his efforts. DLA "Also Admitted in Wisconsin