2019-05-23 Parks and Rec Comm Tour MinutesCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Minutes of the Parks and Recreation Commission Work Session
Held May 23, 2019
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a work session of the Parks and Recreation Commission,
City of Mendota Heights, Minnesota began at Valley View Heights Park, 1056 Cullen Avenue,
Mendota Heights, MN 55120.
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Steve Goldade called the meeting to order at 5:10 pm. Commissioners Sherer, Miller,
Klepperich and Meyer were also present.
City staff present included Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator; Cheryl
Jacobson, Assistant City Administrator; and Ryan Ruzek, Public Works Director.
TOUR OF VALLEY VIEW HEIGTS PARK
Staff and commissioners toured the park and discussed options for future improvements. Staff
noticed there was not a recycling bin at this park. Public Works staff is currently working on a
park identification sign which will be installed soon. Staff determined that more mulch is needed
in the playground, and Public Works staff will be addressing this. The commissioners
determined the playground is in good condition. An ADA picnic table is needed at this park and
will be delivered.
TOUR OF HAGSTROM KING PARK
Staff discussed with the commission complaints that have been received regarding the location
of the current portable restroom. This will be discussed at the commission’s regular June
meeting. Staff discussed the option of adding a full size basketball court to this facility with two
baskets. The location of staff’s recommendation of pickleball courts was discussed and the
commission discussed adding more pickleball courts to Friendly Hills Park hockey rink instead
of dedicated pickleball courts. The commission inspected the plastic playground edging and
determined it was not preferable for future playground improvements. Staff is currently
addressing drainage issues at this park’s baseball field.
TOUR OF MENDAKOTA PARK
Staff toured the softball complex and marveled at the number of adult softball players at the
facility. Staff provided an overview of the program. The commission discussed with staff the
pour in place rubber at the playground. Staff explained the pros and cons of the surface and cost.
The commission determined the basketball court is in great condition, but felt this could be a
good location for adjustable hoops.
TOUR OF WENTWORTH PARK
The commissioners toured the existing warming house at Wentworth Park. Staff believes the
facility was constructed in 1972. The commissioners determined the warming house is in dire
need of replacement and will discuss the issue with the City Council at their upcoming joint
May 23, 2019 Parks and Recreation Commission Work Session page 2 of 2
work session. Staff determined the current location would fit a standard size warming house, but
conversations are still ongoing regarding the facility including restrooms. The commission
looked at the current tennis courts and determined there are a lot of deep cracks in the surface
and it needs to be replaced soon. This is the next tennis court facility on schedule to be repaired.
ADJOURN
The commission adjourned the meeting at 7:05 PM
Minutes Taken By:
Meredith Lawrence
Recreation Program Coordinator