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2020-01-14 Park and Rec Comm MinutesCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS, DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING JANUARY 14, 2020 The January meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, January 14, 2020, at Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. 1. Call to Order – Chair Steve Goldade called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. 2. Roll Call – The following Commissioners were present: Chair Steve Goldade, Commissioners: Patrick Cotter, Pat Hinderscheid, Bob Klepperich, Stephanie Meyer, David Miller, Dan Sherer and Student Representative Matthew Boland. Staff present: Recreation Program Coordinator, Meredith Lawrence, Assistant City Administrator, Cheryl Jacobson and Public Works Director, Ryan Ruzek. 3. Pledge of Allegiance The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. 4. Approval of Agenda Motion Klepperich/second Cotter, to approve the agenda AYES 7: NAYS 0 5.a Approval of Minutes from December 10, 2019 Regular Meeting Motion Meyer/second Hinderscheid, to approve the minutes of the December 10, 2019 Parks and Recreation Commission Regular Meeting. AYES 7: NAYS 0 6. Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda) None. 7. Acknowledgement of Reports Chair Goldade read the titles of the three updates (Par 3, Recreation, and Field and Facility Use Policy Updates) and polled the Commissioners for questions. 7.a Par 3 Update Recreation Program Coordinator, Meredith Lawrence, briefly reviewed the 2019 November Financial Report. She stated that December will not have revenue but will have expenses. She noted that a final report will be forthcoming for 2019. 7.b Recreation Update Chair Goldade commended staff for the excellent work on the Orbit Earth Expo. 7.c Field and Facility Use Policy Update Ms. Lawrence stated that this is an informational document. She stated that the Field and Facility Use Policy amendments were approved by the City Council. She noted that most of the amendments were specific to language and highlighted some of the changes. She stated that the process included good discussions with the Council, Commission, and user groups. Commissioner Miller suggested that staff highlight the changes in the document to make it easier for the Commission to find the changes. Chair Goldade asked if there is a deadline for Mendota Heights residents to make reservations. Ms. Lawrence stated that page two of the policy identifies deadlines, noting that the first deadline would be February for the 2020 Field and Facility season of March through July. Motion Klepperich/second Cotter to acknowledge the staff reports. AYES 7: NAYES 0 8. Unfinished Business 8.a Community Engagement Check In Ms. Lawrence stated that they met with the Rotary which she believed was a worthwhile meeting. She stated that residents are happy with the parks and feel that the parks are clean and well maintained. She noted that there were positive comments related to park equipment, trails, and partnerships with surrounding communities. She reported that the residents would like to see a marketing campaign for the parks, more adult league options, more family friendly pop-up events in the parks, more movies in the park, possible pursuit of a splashpad, perhaps a trail to access the high school to increase safety for students, work out equipment along the trails, and additional trail maps at the parks. She stated that there was discussion about the possibility of partnering with businesses to provide more nature-based play programing, which is an increasing trend. She advised that the Mendota Heights Living magazine was discussed and praised, noting that is not a City publication. Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that they met with the Rotary on January 8th and he was impressed that a good number of the attendees utilizing the parks and/or recreation programs. He thanked staff and the Rotary Club for the information they were able to obtain. Chair Goldade stated that he was happy that the group was excited to talk about the parks and share ideas. He stated that a number of Rotary members spoke as grandparents that enjoy the parks with their grandchildren. Commissioner Meyer asked if there were any examples of good parks given. Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that they did ask if there were features in other parks that the members liked but could not remember any examples that were provided. Ms. Lawrence commented that the only park she remembered being named was Madison’s Place in Woodbury, which is a large destination park with great features. She noted that Mendota Heights does not have the space available to create a park of that scale at this time. Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that the President of the Rotary Club is also the Executive Director of the YMCA and expressed interest in perhaps partnering on future projects and funding. Chair Goldade stated that this process is providing great information and highlighted some of the upcoming engagement groups. 8.b Par 3 Trail Connection Public Works Director, Ryan Ruzek, stated that a resident previously asked the City about the possibilities of a soft trail along the edge of the Par 3 golf course. He identified the platted right- of-way that goes to the edge of the Par 3, noting that it appears to be an undeveloped right-of- way but there is a homeowner with fencing and landscaping within that area. He stated that staff walked along the edge and there are some challenging grades along the area, some which would require large amounts of fill. He provided a rough estimate of $200,000 for the trail and highlighted some of the challenges that would exist. He advised that the City did commission a Dodd Road corridor study and an alternative option for that connection could go along Dodd Road. He stated that although the alternative trail connection option along Dodd Road would have a similarly estimated cost, it would align more with the long-range goal of the City. Commissioner Cotter asked for additional information on how the East route option would better fit into the City’s long-range plans. Mr. Ruzek replied that in 2016 the City received a grant from the County and had a consultant study the entire Dodd Road corridor. He stated that report could be shared with the Commission and should be posted on the City’s website. He explained that the larger goal would be to construct a trail along the entire corridor. Commissioner Cotter asked for input on whether it could be preferred to construct segments of the trail in a piecemeal fashion. Mr. Ruzek stated that staff is currently seeking quotes for two intersection control points along Dodd Road. He stated that the Capital Improvement Plan identifies potential intersection improvements beginning in 2023. He explained that segments of the trail could be constructed along with intersection improvements. Commissioner Sherer agreed that the East option would provide better connectivity and would be a preferred route. He stated that this segment appears to be a current gap in the corridor. Mr. Ruzek stated that staff is working with the County and West St. Paul on the reconstruction of Delaware Avenue that would include a trail on one or both sides. He discussed the feasibility of other trail segments along Dodd. Commissioner Sherer referenced the elementary school on Dodd, noting that children walk along Dodd without sidewalks or trails. Mr. Ruzek advised of current connections to the elementary school as well as potential crossings that would provide safer routes. Commissioner Cotter asked if completing a trail along with an intersection improvement would provide a cost benefit. Mr. Ruzek confirmed that typically you can see some economy of scale in a larger project compared to a smaller project. Chair Goldade asked for details on the trail that would be required, including possible curb and buffer. Mr. Ruzek confirmed that MnDOT would require curb and a five-foot grass boulevard before the eight to ten-foot-wide bituminous trail. Chair Goldade asked if an application would need to be submitted to MnDOT. Mr. Ruzek explained that would depend upon how the City decides to fund that improvement. He noted that if the trail is included with a road improvement, the City could use State Aid funds. He stated that if local funds were used, the City would need to obtain a permit from MnDOT. He stated that the typical timeline for that type of approval would be 30 to 45 days but could extend out to 90 days. He stated that drainage concerns would be one of the largest concerns from MnDOT. He provided additional information on stormwater elements currently in the area. He stated that staff is looking for input on whether the Commission would like to continue to consider a trail along the W est side of the Par 3 or whether the Eastern option along Dodd Road would be sufficient, and whether the Dodd Road trail should be pursued as a standalone project or in conjunction with an intersection improvement. Chair Goldade asked if the City has previously acquired Safe Routes to School funds and whether the City would be interested in that option. Mr. Ruzek explained the additional steps that would be necessary. He noted that staff could reach out to a local school to determine if they would like to participate in the future. He was unsure that this segment would qualify as it is not directly adjacent to a school. Commissioner Meyer asked if staff believes the Dodd Road segment would make more sense. She stated that personally she does not like either of the options. She explained that the Dodd Road segment does not appear that it will extend all the way down to Wentworth and therefore residents will still zigzag down different areas. Mr. Ruzek confirmed that this segment would connect the two neighborhoods that have a barrier between them. Commissioner Sherer stated that he recalled that the residents that spoke were looking for a walking path that would connect the two neighborhoods. He commented that seemed like an easier option but having to meet ADA requirements would add additional challenges and costs. Mr. Ruzek stated that the City follows the State bike and trail manual whenever trails are constructed. Commissioner Sherer stated that the Par 3 option has a segment along one of the greens, which would make users a target for golf balls. Commissioner Meyer referenced a portion of the Dodd Road trail and asked if that would be too close to the sand trap or tee box. Mr. Ruzek commented that the trail could be constructed within MnDOT right-of-way and would not touch the Par 3 course. Ms. Lawrence stated that there are irrigation heads that would need to be relocated/redirected along the Dodd Road segment. Commissioner Miller stated that it first seemed that the East path along Dodd would make sense as there would eventually be a path along that roadway. He recognized that there would also be an advantage towards taking people off a busy road and putting the trail through nature, therefore he would prefer the W estern option. Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that given the challenges and expense, he would prefer not to pursue either option. Commissioner Klepperich stated that he would favor the Eastern option along Dodd Road because of the construction complications of the Western option. He commented that he believes eventually there will be paths along Dodd Road. He stated that the costs would be well beyond what the parks fund could support and therefore alternative funding would need to be pursued. Commissioner Sherer stated that he would support the option along Dodd Road as that is consistent with the goals of both the City and MnDOT. Commissioner Cotter stated that he would also support the Eastern option along Dodd Road, although that would require additional information. He stated that it could be beneficial to combine the project with the intersection project as there could be a possibility to utilize State Aid funding. Student Representative Boland commented that the Eastern option would seem more realistic because of the challenges that would exist for the Par 3 option. Commissioner Meyer stated that while she prefers a nature-based option, she does agree that the Eastern option would make more sense. Chair Goldade agreed that the Eastern option seems more practical and fits with the long-range goals of the City and County. Mr. Ruzek stated that he can bring the issue of whether the trail should occur as a standalone project or combined with an intersection project to the next meeting. 8.c Pickleball Court Planning Chair Goldade reviewed the definitions of designated pickleball court and multi-use court, providing an example of a multi-use court within the City. Mr. Ruzek stated that the City previously reviewed possible additions for pickleball courts and identified a potential location at Hagstrom King Park that was brought forward in the past by a resident. He stated that the request did not move forward at that time and the City instead pursued improvements to a multi-use court at Marie Park. He identified the tennis courts at Valley Park which could be repurposed for another use. He noted that the court currently has sport court tiles because of the pour drainage in the park. He was unsure if the pickleball court could utilize that type of tile or whether it would need to be removed in order to be repurposed. He estimated the cost for the construction and necessary trail connections and fencing at the Hagstrom King park to be $125,000 compared to the repurposing of the Valley Park court which would be about $80,000. Commissioner Hinderscheid asked for a comparison of the two parks in terms of proximity of homes noting that sound has been an issue for pickleball. Mr. Ruzek identified the proximity of the homes to each of the court/proposed court locations. He noted that both parks are near busy roadways that cause noise. Commissioner Hinderscheid commented that it would appear the Valley Park location would potentially have less issues with noise for adjacent homes. Commissioner Cotter asked if there has been a thought to spacing out the courts more, as there is a multi-purpose court available at Marie Park and Valley Park is just one mile away. Mr. Ruzek explained that if the designated courts were done at Valley Park, the multi-purpose court at Marie Park would eventually become a dedicated hockey court. Commissioner Meyer identified additional flat land behind the pavilion at Valley Park and asked if that would provide an opportunity for future expansion. Mr. Ruzek stated that disturbing trees and vegetation would not be well supported. Commissioner Klepperich asked if there has been a consensus to not reduce the number of tennis courts. Ms. Lawrence noted that in a previous study it was found that the City has a sufficient number of tennis courts and the study would not recommend removing courts. She stated that she has received the largest amount of tennis court permits for 2020, noting that most prefer to use Marie Park because the courts are brand new. Commissioner Scherer commented that the court at Valley Park is used. Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that the Commission has discussed pickleball for a long time and it is one of the fastest growing sports. He stated that it is time Mendota Heights moves forward on pickleball. He stated that his preference would be the option at Valley Park as he would be sensitive to the issue of noise for adjacent homes. Commissioner Miller echoed the comment, noting that there are other tennis courts available for those users in that area. He noted that Valley Park is also a centralized location. Commissioner Klepperich suggested resurfacing Friendly Hills in 2020 with the Commission then recommending that the Council budget for designated pickleball courts in 2021. He noted that the decision could then be made at that time whether to choose Valley or Hagstrom King. Commissioner Sherer stated that he does not support removing tennis courts. He referenced the flat area at Friendly Hills and asked if that could be a location for designated court space. Ms. Lawrence commented that could be a good location, but it has been used for soccer in the past. Commissioner Cotter stated that it is obvious that there is a desire for pickleball courts. He stated that the City already spent funds at Marie Park to create the multi-purpose court and therefore is unsure about spending additional funds one mile away to create a dedicated court at Valley Park. He stated that he likes the idea of resurfacing at Friendly Hills for the time being and attempting to gain support from the Council in terms of funding, which would also provide additional time to find a good location for dedicated pickleball courts. Student Representative Boland stated that some residents in his neighborhood have attempted to play pickleball on the tennis courts at Friendly Hills. He stated that he would also not support removing tennis courts to create pickleball courts. Commissioner Meyer stated that he likes the idea of Valley Park because of the isolated location and would support that option. Chair Goldade stated that he likes the idea of dedicated pickleball courts and also would like to see that option south of 62. He confirmed the consensus of the Commission to reopen the discussion on pickleball and will decide on a location during a future agenda. Commissioner Klepperich asked if the Commission should pursue resurfacing at Friendly Hills, or whether that should be delayed. Mr. Ruzek explained that the City will be obtaining a quote in the future related to resurfacing at Friendly Hills and additional work could be done to determine if there would be space available that could be used for a pickleball court. 9. New Business None. 10. Staff Announcements Ms. Lawrence shared the following announcements: • Blade with the Blue on February 8th– registration is required • Royal Ball on February 9th • Other events can be found on the city’s website Ms. Lawrence also thanked Commissioner Miller for his contributions to the Commission, noting that he will be greatly missed. Commissioner Miller stated that he has found it enjoyable to be a part of this group. 11. Student Representative Update Student Representative Boland stated that he spoke with a parent in his neighborhood and received positive feedback related to the skating areas at Friendly Hills Park and Hagstrom King. 12. Commission Comments and Park Updates Chair Goldade thanked Commissioner Miller for his contribution to the Commission. Commissioner Cotter • Thanked Commissioner Miller for this service to the Commission. • He has been impressed with the number of winter skaters and the great use of the City’s rinks. Commissioner Sherer • Thanked Commissioner Miller for his service. • He commended Ms. Lawrence on her recent recognition. Commissioner Klepperich • Thanked Commissioner Miller and wished him well in his retirement. • Acknowledged Ms. Lawrence for the recognition she received from the Recreation and Parks Association. Commissioner Meyer • She echoed the congratulations to Ms. Lawrence and thanks to Commissioner Miller. • She stated that she was also pleased to see the skating numbers and high use of the rinks and parks. Commissioner Hinderscheid • He congratulated Ms. Lawrence for her award and the favorable golf report. • He stated that it is nice to see the small fenced area for the dog park, noting that the dog park continues to be well used. • Thanked Commissioner Miller for his years of service and wisdom he has brought to the Commission. Commissioner Miller • He explained that he has been able to think about different uses of the parks through the eyes of his grandchildren. Chair Goldade • The Commission continues to discuss Wentworth and potential upgrades to the warming house and tennis court. • He referenced a recent article about Valley Park in the Friday News • He congratulated Ms. Lawrence for her award and again thanked Commissioner Miller for his years of service. 13. Adjourn Motion Miller/Second Klepperich, to adjourn the meeting at 7:55 PM AYES 7: NAYS 0 Minutes drafted by: Amanda Staple TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.