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1991-12-10 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AGENDA PARRS AND RECREATION December 10, 1991 - 7:00 P.M. 1. Call to Order. 2. Roll Call. 3. Approval of November 12, 1991 Minutes. 4. Kensington Park - Final Concept Design Guy Kullander, Parks Project Manager 5. Request for Indoor Park. 6. Presentation of Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assistant 7. Dedication of Land to Park System Mallard Lane 8. Verbal Updates a. Park Dedication Fee b. Victoria Road/Highway 13 Trail Alignment C. Response to West Publishing 9. Adjourn CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DRAFT DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION NOVEMBER 12, 1991 The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, November 12, 1991, in the City Hall Conference Room, 1101 Victoria Curve. Chair John Huber called the meeting to order at 7:05 o'clock p.m. The following members were present: Huber, Spicer, Lundeen, and Damberg. Kleinglass and Katz were excused. Hunter arrived late at 7:30 o'clock p.m. Staff members present were Parks Project Manager Guy Kullander, Parks Leadperson Terry Blum and Administrative Assistant Kevin Batchelder, APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Damberg requested revisions to the minutes on the Kensington Park discussion. Commissioner Lundeen moved approval of the October 81 1991 minutes, as revised. Commissioner Spicer seconded the motion. AYES: 4 NAYS: 0 PARRS AND RECREATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE REPORT Chair John Huber introduced the attendance issue and stated that this became an issue at the May 1991 meeting when he was the only Commissioner in attendance. Huber stated that City Administrator Tom Lawell, at Council's direction, had written each Park Commissioner individually and that following this action the attendance had been fine. Huber stated the September meeting again lacked a quorum and City Council had requested an attendance report upon seeing this in the minutes. Chair Huber stated he was hopeful that attendance would be better in the long run. Huber stated the Commission has been over this issue and the September meeting is not going to be a regular occurrence. Commissioner Damberg stated that people are in and out of town in this day and age and that some Commissioners have jobs that take them out of town. Commissioner Spicer stated that people don't consciously avoid the meetings. Chair Huber stated that he felt the Parks Commission was an excellent group and had provided the City Council with Page 3 Blum informed the Commissioners to give him a call, or let City Hall know if they ever discover a need for maintenance, for instance to trim growth along a trail, or to sweep a trail, and the parks crew will respond. Chair Huber inquired about snow plowing for the trails after the Halloween storm. Blum responded that the trails could not be plowed with present equipment, given the heavy nature of the snow. Blum stated they have the option of a pickup with a plow or the grader for plowing trails. Blum stated a pickup is not heavy enough to push the heavy snow and that the grader tears up too many things along the trail and is really too large for the trails. Blum stated the budgeted snow thrower for 1992 would easily clean the trails in their present state. Blum stated that the ice rinks would be flooded the first week in December and that he was currently hiring rink attendants who would have their informational meeting on November 25th. Blum stated that the warming houses would be open on New Years Day this winter, but not on Christmas Day. Parks Project Manager Guy Kullander handed out a memorandum summarizing the design of the Kensington Park, its history, the constraints of the site and funding. Kullander described the south half of Kensington Park stating the two soccer fields can only fit in a north/south orientation in the south park site. He stated tall fencing will be required behind the goals along I-494 and a parking lot for So to 100 cars will be needed. Kullander stated that play equipment and picnic amenities could also be located in this section. Kullander stated a comfort station with permanent facilities was considered necessary by the Park and Recreation Commission who will need to decide the level of service for the play equipment and comfort station. Kullander stated a trail link is designed to link the north park section and area to the east, which will be single family homes. Kullander stated it was the consensus, at the October 8, 1991 meeting of the Park and Recreation Commission, to construct permanent toilets with connection to the sanitary sewer and overhangs on the building which were added to the design. Page 5 when soccer is not in use and meets neighborhood park needs. The Commission decided to place two T- ball backstops at the north end of the soccer fields and set back 30 feet. The Parks and Recreation Commission was of unanimous consensus that the plan presented for South Kensington Park should be recommended with the T-ball option. The Commission directed staff to discuss the design with Sting and Mend -Eagan. NORTH KENSINGTON PARK Chair Huber stated the design of the north section of Kensington Park had been the item of much discussion at the October meeting and as a result the Commission had directed Parks Project Manager Kullander to provide a menu of options for this park section and to include Hagstrom-King Park as a factor in siting park needs for this area. Kullander explained the original proposal that had been presented in October and stated this design has potential for a multi -use field. Kullander stated his original design is basically a neighborhood park in two areas, as it includes a play structure, play field, parking, trails, hard court and picnic facilities. Kullander explained the other drawing, Plan B, which includes all the options discussed last month to pick and choose from. Kullander stated this shows the park to contain an enlarged parking lot that has been moved to the west end of the park, a picnic shelter, heavier landscaping and berming, a two court tennis surface, a full court basketball, three horseshoe pits with an open grass area under the easement. Kullander stated this option shows maximum development and is not a proposal but merely an illustration of the options. Chair Huber inquired about volleyball. Kullander stated this area has unlimited development potential and could include volleyball if the Commission chose. Kullander stated that this area will contain a diverse group of residents and that eventually there will approximately 800 housing units in this area. Kullander stated the north park section is not a pretty area with natural amenities. He stated it is in the noise corridor, is adjacent to traffic, has high power lines running through the property, is void of Page 7 from any park like setting in this area. Kullander stated Plan B is similar to Marie Park where there are a lot of uses in a small area and that court fencing does not detract significantly once trees are mature. Commissioner Hunter stated he likes open spaces for parks, and that Plan B is not the passive type of park development in which people will hang out. Hunter stated Plan B would be better without the basketball. Hunter proposed volleyball with landscaping and berms to replace the basketball. Hunter favored the tennis and horseshoes. Hunter stated that Hagstrom-King is more appropriate for a "park like setting." Bocce ball was discussed. Commissioner Spicer stated the north park area is an ugly site to begin with and we shouldn't put lots of money in it. Spicer advocated an open area with picnic shelter, horseshoes and some plantings. Spicer stated the money should go into Hagstrom- King which is already an attractive area and could accommodate tennis courts. Spicer stated money would be better spent beautifying Hagstrom-King. Spicer stated Kensington is best suited as an open play field and he prefers the original plan with a shelter, horseshoes and some beautification. Tennis at Hagstrom-King was discussed. It was acknowledged that the building at the north Kensington site already had bathrooms to support active use. Commissioner Lundeen stated he prefers Plan B without the tennis and basketball, which could be placed at Hagstrom-King Park. Lundeen stated that he felt if a "park like" area was needed that Hagstrom-King is more appropriate, and if active type surfaces are needed than Kensington is more appropriate. Commissioner Damberg stated she preferred Plan B as a passive area without the tennis and basketball. Damberg stated she thinks Hagstrom-King is a nicer area suitable for activity with a nice overview of the pond. Commissioner Spicer stated the basketball could be taken out of Hagstrom-King with some plantings to separate the ballfield and make Hagstrom-King Park the green area. Spicer stated the basketball could be replaced at Kensington Park. Spicer stated he liked the active use of Plan B near the existing plumbing, there will be a lot of people in this AYES: 4 NAYS: 1 Huber. Huber stated his nay vote was based upon the amount of active uses in Plan B. Huber stated that Plan B as a passive design with horseshoes, picnic, trails is more appropriate and the tennis and basketball can go at Hagstrom-King which is similar to the other neighborhood parks. The Commission directed staff to inform City Council of the concept design and to bring back a more detailed plan with cost estimates for review at their next meeting for the formal recommendation to City Council, The Commission discussed 1st and 2nd Question referendum monies and there purposes as relates to improvements and future land acquisition. WEST PUBLISHING SOFTBALL PROPOSAL Chair John Huber introduced the proposal that the City had received from West and womens softball league Publishing in Mendota for a mens Heights to serve their Eagan employees. Huber queried if there was any support Commissioners. for this among the Commissioner Spicer stated that the Thursday night reservation requested by West Publishing is the primary night for the Mendota Heights Softball League and it wasn't likely the City could support any Thursday night softball. Commissioner Lundeen stated he did not support the request. Chair John Huber stated this was not unlike the request to rent the concession stand. Huber stated the City really had to have a chance to develop its policies before outside interests were allowed into the program. Huber stated the City does not have a policy on use of the softball fields yet. Huber stated the answer to West Publishing ought to be there is no structure to support their request at this time. Commissioner Lundeen stated the City could not give a three year commitment to West Publishing until there are clear policies on field use. Huber inquired if the Mendakota Park fields would be playable in the Spring. Kullander stated the fields would be available for limited use and could accommodate our present softball leagues, the mens ADJOURN Page 11 is unknown at this point and some trail segments are listed as County trails. Kullander stated the City cost could be as high as $65,000, but this depends on the State and County shares. Batchelder stated he had no contact from the Mayfield Heights neighborhood after informing them the City had exhausted its options to provide a trail link to Douglas/James Road despite his offer to meet with them. The Victoria realignment and its trail were discussed. There being no further business, the Parks and Recreation adjourned their meeting at 9:30 o'clock p.m. Respectfully submitted, Kevin Batchelder, Admin. Asst. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO December 6, 1991 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Guy Kullander, Parks Project Manager SUBJECT: Preliminary Kensington Park Plans The design of Kensington Park was assigned to City staff for development and presentation to the Parks and Recreation Commission and the City Council. Preliminary layouts were discussed at the October 8th and November 12th meetings of the Park and Recreation Commission. Copies of plans and memos were given to Councilmembers to keep them up to date on the ongoing process. Following the November 12th meetings, staff discussed the layout of the soccer fields with coaches of the Sting Soccer Program. Their recommendations are illustrated as Option B - South Kensington Park. Comments of the Sting coaches are more fully discussed later. The Citizens Park Review Committee, a 27 member ad hoc advisory committee, began meeting in January 1989. With direction from the City Council to prepare a parks bond referendum to meet City park needs. The culmination of these efforts resulted in a recommendation presented to the City Council in June of 1989 (see attached News Release). A subcommittee to investigate ballfield needs was formed and the conclusions of this subcommittee were part of the recommendations to the City Council (see attached synopsis of ballfield subcommittee recommendations for upgrading and the addition of facilities). To date the following new fields have been constructed New Total City Fields 1 - Youth Soccer 120' x 150' 4 1 - Large Soccer 195' x 330' 1 2 - Youth Softball 7 1 - Large Baseball 1 6 - Adult Softball/Youth Baseball 7 The planned construction of one full size and one large soccer field at the Kensington Park will substantially fulfill the committee's recommendations. Funds Available Funding of improvements to the "third ballfield site" was provided for in the second referendum questions of $700,000 (see attached News Release). Approximately $95,000 from question one not yet spent is also available. Combined, a total of $795,000 is available to complete the improvements the referendum was intended for. Unfu1fi11eS_Needs and Commitments 1. Sibley Play Equipment 2. Sibley Bleachers (3 large) 3. Mendakota Bleachers (8) 4. Mendakota Picnic Tables (20) 5. Valley View Heights Amenities (Curley Tot Lot) 6. Sibley and Mendakota Signage 7. Backstop Hood and Wentworth Park 8. Benches and Fencing at Mendakota, Somerset and Sibley 9. Trail and Park Signage TOTAL Rnown Future Demands for Trail Improvements Planned Building Date 1. Mendota Heights Road (Dodd Rd to Pilot Knob Rd) Possible funding with excess MSA Monies 1992 2. Pilot Knob Rd/Hwy 13/Hwy 110/Hwy 55 Reconstruction. Total may vary down if County assumes some costs. 1992~93 2 $20,000 $12,000 $16,000 $ 8,000 $ 1,200 $ 3,800 $ 1,000 $10,000 20 000 $92,000 $30,000 $68,000 3. Victoria Rd Realignment at Hwy 13 to Diane Rd. Road funded by County and MnDOT. 1992 $15,000 4. Victoria Rd (Diane to Celia) 900' "finishing link". MSA funds may lower cost. Future $18,000 Funds needed: Best Case = $ 50,000 Worst Case = $131,000 The Commission should consider the need to "set aside" approximately $125,000 to $200,000 of funding for the above listed improvements. Funding Available for Kensington Park The Commission at its November 12th meeting discussed the development of Kensington Park and the improvement of the Hagstrom- King Park. Funding available to accomplish this is approximately $600,000 and if so spent, would be the last of referendum funded improvements. RENSINGTON PARR Service Area The available 12.8 acres of park land is split into an 8.5 acre south park connected by a corridor and to the north 4.4 acre park adjacent to Huber Drive. The park site is located south of Mendota Heights Road; north of Interstate 494. east of a line described as Huber Drive extended south and the future single family development to the east. It is anticipated that residents living east of Dodd Road and west of Delaware Avenue will primarily take advantage of these park facilities. This area includes the Bridgeview Shores, Patrick, Putnam and Centex developments. The Copperfield and Hampshire neighborhoods are not included as primary users because of existing closer parks that serve those areas. Currently 97 residences are in this area and at full development would total 546. Townhomes (multi -family units) would account for 287 and the remaining 259 would be single family homes. Topography The northwest corner is low and must remain so to accommodate 3 a storm water detention pond which serves the park and residential development. Some mature vegetation exists around this pond. A U.S. West Fiber Optics building is located in the northeast corner which, constructed in 1989, contains restrooms and storage area which were given to the City for park use (see attached drawings). East of this building a wooded hill ascends into the residential area. Only the west side of the slope is within the park. Going south, the topography rises to a high point midway and then descends to the south boundary which is the Interstate 494 right- of-way fence. Vegetation is sparse due to the lack of topsoil. A few trees exist in the southwest corner which will be removed to accommodate the soccer field. Visual Impacts The dominate negative feature in the park is the Northern States Power high lines across the site extending from Mendota Heights Road to Interstate 494. The lines are thirty-eight feet (38' ) off the ground at the poles and sag to twenty-eight feet (281) at midspan. The Interstate 494 Highway is very visible from the entire south park because it is situated lower than the park. North, east and west of the park will be residential developments with a mix of new and mature vegetation. NORTH RENSINGTON PARR DESIGN Preliminary concept drawings showing moderate and heavy development of this site were discussed. The Commission favored Option B showing a parking lot for 28 cars, 2 tennis courts, full size basketball court, horseshoe pits, trails and picnic amenities. There has been some discussion since the meeting whether or not it makes sense to develop the North Kensington Park at all in 1992 for a number of reasons. These include: 1. Centex grading of areas to the east and west will not be completed until late 1992 or into 1993. Graders would be crossing the park site causing disruption. 2. Increased residential development will enable the Commission to better target what facilities are most desired by new residents in this neighborhood park service area. Some work will be constructed. These costs required are shown even if on Page 7 no facilities are as North Kensington Park "Grass Field Only". 0 SOUTH KENSINGTON PARR DESIGN 1. Location of Fields To adhere to the Citizens Park Review recommendations one full size (300' x 3901) field and one large (240' x 3601) field were located in this park. To accomplish this it was necessary to located the easterly field partially under the NSP power lines. Recommendations from the Sting soccer coaches are reflected in Option B drawing. To avoid the possible impact of play disruption the power lines may cause, they felt the fields should be moved as far west as possible. This would result in both fields being 240, wide and eliminates the possible widening of one field to a 300, width which is the standard adult field size. 2. Drainage/Grades of Fields The Option A design provided for sheet drainage of the west field and crowned field drainage on the east. Sheet drainage is a continuous slope from one side or end of the field to the other. Crown drainage has a high point at midfield and drains to the sides/ends. Fields are often designed with a combination of sheet and crown drainage. The Sting coaches would like both fields to be crowned so as to present equal play. They feel that a sheet drained field is unequal play because a corner kick towards the goal would be 1 1/2" higher than the goal on one side and be 1 1/2" lower on the other. 3. Fencino Perimeter fencing is required to prevent stray balls from going into parking or play areas and to prevent visitors to the park using the townhouse parking lot. Taller fencing will be required behind the goals adjacent to Interstate 494. Extensive tree plantings along the highway right-of-way will also be installed to block both stray balls and highway noise. Utility/Comfort Building The Commission desired permanent toilet facilities in the south park. This building would also include mechanical systems for the field irrigation, storage area for park maintenance, storage for goal nets, drinking fountain, vending machine space and extra overhang for shelter. The Sting coaches requested a space for concessions to be added to the building. !.7 5. Plav Equipment To conform with other City parks, a play area was desired. Not as large as the Mendakota Park but more the size of the those in other neighborhood parks. Current federal regulations regarding handicap accessibility and equal play experience requirements may escalate the cost of this play area. Guidelines are not yet published so delaying the installation of the equipment for a year should be considered. Current estimates of the cost to comply range from 40 percent to 60 percent of the cost of regular equipment. 6. Picnic Amenities Providing a larger roof overhang for picnic was first preferred by the Commission. After further discussion it was decided smaller kiosk type roof structures for one or two tables situated away from the parking lot were more desirable. Benches, bike racks, etc. will also be provided. 7. Trails An eight foot (8'j trail will connect the north park and a trail to the east will connect the residential area. No trails are planned for areas adjacent to the fields or that would connect into the multifamily units to the west. 8. Parkin" A paved parking lot for approximately 80 cars will be needed. One security light should be sufficient. 9. Soccer Amenities Movable bleachers, player benches and goals (both youth and full sizes will be available for use. The portable -units will accommodate whatever play configuration the fields are striped for. HAGSTROM-R2NG PARR The Commission at the November 14th meeting decided to consider additional landscaping for this park. The intent was to add walking trails, small picnic areas, grading and landscaping in the area overlooking the ponds thus providing a quite, scenic, contemplative experience for residents. Staff can "plug" in these elements but feel the Commission should consider engaging a landscape architect to design this "make over of the park. Fees would be 8 to 10 percent of construction costs. 6 ESTIMATED DEVELOPMENT COSTS 1. Hagstrom-Kinq Park Grading $ 10,000 Landscaping 15,000 Picnic Amenities 71000 Benches, etc. 31000 Turf Restoration 5,000 Trails $ 10,000 Sub Total $ 50,000 Consultant fees 10% $ 51000 Contingency fees 10% 5,000 Overhead, Inspection 10% $ 5,000 Sub Total $ 15,000 TOTAL $ 65,000 2. North Kensington Park 2a. Grass Field Onlv Grading $ 101000 Turf (seed 3.5 acres) 71000 Spread black dirt (11800 yd) $ 3,500 Sub Total $ 20,500 Contingency 10% $ 21000 Overhead, Inspection 15% $ 3,000 Sub Total $ 51000 TOTAL $ 30,500 2b. Plan A Grading $ 20,000 Turf 7,000 Spread Black Dirt 31500 Parking Lot w/Light 15,000 Hard Court 71000 Trail 10,000 Backstop, benches, etc. $ 9,500 Sub Total $ 72,000 Contingency 10% $ 7,200 Eng., Overhead, Inspection 15% $ 10,800 Sub Total $ 18,000 TOTAL $ 90,000 7 3 �* IM1JIM. Grading $ 20,000 Turfing (sod/seed) 10,000 Spread Black Dirt 3,500 Landscaping 18,000 Parking Lot 23,000 Trails 11,500 Tennis Courts 40,000 Hard Court 25,000 Horseshoe pits 61000 Picnic Shelters, (3 small) 18,000 Amenities $ 10.000 Sub Total $185,000 Contingency 10% $ 18,500 Eng., Overhead, Inspection 15% $ 27.500 Sub Total $ 46,000 TOTAL $231,000 South Kensington Park 3a. Plan A Grading & Topsoil $ 40,000 Storm Sewer 10,000 Turf (seed) 17,000 Irrigation 20,000 Regular Fence 17,000 High Fence 15,000 Goals, Bleachers, etc. 181000 Parking lot (80) 56,000 Building w/utilities 70,000 Play Equipment 30,000 Landscaping 20,000 Trails $ 17.000 Sub Total $336,000 Contingency 10% $ 33,600 Eng., Overhead, Inspections 15% $ 50o400 Sub Total $ 84,000 TOTAL $420,000 [=3 3b. Plan B (Sting Coaches) Use 3a. base price $336,000 plus Larger building for concessions 10,000 Additional Storm Sewer 15,000 Grading/Dirt $ 15.000 Sub Total $376,000 Contingency 10% $ 37,600 Eng., Overhead, Inspections 150 $ 56.000 Sub Total $ 93,600 TOTAL $472,000 RECOMMENDATION Discuss the various development plans for all three sites and formulate a specific recommendation to the City Council. Direct staff to prepare drawings and cost estimates for presentation to the City Council, GDK:kkb Attachments: 1. News Release - Citizens Parks Review Committee Recommendations June 7, 1989 2. Synopsis of Ballfields Subcommittee Recommendations for Upgrading and Addition of Facilities. 3. U.S. West Fiber Optics Building/Park Shelter 4. Option B - South Kensington Park - Sting Recommendations 5. South Kensington Park Plan A 6. North Kensington Park Plan A 7. North Kensington Park Plan B pP �+Mendota NEWS RELEASE - Citizen's Parks Review Committee Recommends Summer Referendum Date - June 7, 1989 For Immediate Release Contact - Kevin Frazell, City Administrator 452-1850 The Citizen's Parks Review Committee, a 27-member ad hoc advisory committee, has recommended that the City hold a parks bond referendum on a Tuesday in August, 1989. The referendum, as recommended, would consist of two questions. The first question, for $2.7 million, would be used to immediately upgrade and expand the City's parks system. The second question, for an additional $700,000 would provide latitude for the City to acquire additional park land as it becomes available in the community. The Parks Review Committee was appointed by the City Council late last year, with the charge to come up with a parks bond referendum that would meet Mendota Height's parks and open space needs while being financially feasible for -the taxpayers. The Commmittee, consisting of Councilmembers, Planning and Parks Commissioners, and at -large citizens, has been meeting for over five months to work out the details of the current proposal. The first ballot question of $2.7 million would upgrade the CAI s existing seven neighborhood parks, complete development of three new neighborhood parks, add 15 miles of bicycle/pedestrian trails, develop a 27-acre community balifield complex in the southeastern part of the City, 1101 Victoria Curve •Mendota heights, MN • 55118 452.1850 authorize funds for development of an athletic facility in conjunction with Sibley High School, and for land acquisition of a third ballfield site or general park expansion. The second question of $700,000 would merely create the authorization for the City to issue additional bonds, at sometime in the future, for development of the third park ballfield site and/or acquisition of more land. At its meeting of June 20, 1989, City Council will be considering the Committee's recommendation and deciding whether to*call for the referendum. SYNOPSIS OF BALLFIELDS SUBCOMMITTEE RECOMMENDA' FOR UPGRADING AND ADDITION OF FACILITIES YOUTH SOCCER Fields Needed City Fields Available Others Available RECOMMENDATIONS: - 2 minimum 3 Ivy Hills; Wentworth; Friendly Hills - 3 Mendota School; St. Thomas; visitation 1. Improve and enlarge the three available fields to provide all grass playing surface. 2. Add one large (300' x 3901) all grass field that could also accomodate two to three youth fields. FULL-SIZED SOCCER Fields Needed City Fields Available Others Available RECOMMENDATIONS: - none - 6 Sibley(3;2 wet), St. Thomas(3) 1. Add two full-sized soccer fields (240' x 300'). 2. Add one large (300' x 3901) field; same field as under youth soccer above. YOUTH SOFTBALL Fields Needed City Fields Available Others Available RECOMMENDATIONS: - 22 6 Ivy Hills,:Wentworth, Friendly Hills, Marie, Valley, City Hall - 7 Sibley(2), Visitation, St. Peter's, Mendota(2), Somerset 1. Add seven new youth fields, and upgrade existing fields. FULL-SIZED SOFTBALL Fields Needed (3 yrs.) City Fields Available others Available RECOMMENDATIONS: 5; Fields Needed (10 yrs.) - 7 1 City Hall 2 Sibley(2) 1. Add five new•full-sized fields. 2. Acquire land to add two more fields in future, or plan to light other fields so as to extend play time. BASEBALL Fields Needed - 5+ City Fields Available - 1 City Hall (with improvements) Others Available - 3 Sibley(2), St. Thomas RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. Use existing three fields at Sibley and St. Thomas. 2. Add two more fields immediately. 3. Plan the future addition of two more fields, or light two fields so as to extend play time. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS Sport Youth Fields Full -Size Fields Soccer Enlarge 3 existing Add 2 -240' x 300' Add 1 -300' x 390' Softball Upgrade 7 existing Add 5 Add 7 Acquire land for 2 more or light 2 Baseball Upgrade City Hall Add 2 Plan for 2 more or light 2 1• lo 7-rwtcTA.VRcE.�RAAIL6SA'OeA) I :ANmYA 3I2�8�400I 5. &AtS. &LACMEYS, 4 18A00 G. QAeKIIy' LOT W/U i5 5o.OM 'souTmIlea pt "AM 9. A U3�1 A �ry �1 ,E+lfy Govo� 8,ov0 ,'7Cy�1`` t .,TUSP.,#SNRVE� OGO k391. SI/fLTE2�8NlIDIFYa AwTES AtE: ATAfeA NA,CRlAES: S/M#LAL !O M60A✓TA tlfE : IlV iTA[ so PO4 ft4-A-AGTTI6S OAYJ/ SIRA' a ryreuJAlA)—OIfTs/DE pIEfNAAIIrAL FtoIN $AIAU OW6C AREA Rle "W" &6 POP .4ovwW4 4Mjj71Es; OOTEG tz87ac duty. No MANTAR>' $py 7RAN. CCWM64f TO f�J+�6 'I't IAE.I6NmRM1AD SPOT Tb 1 v&ANAt6 a miyvaTA N&*Itsf FA I' 1 NoTE� 1. ALL G0µ5 WILL aC VmTABIi -�1 2.PLAy6u� $6)LI-I&S 4 SLOT He CS -'i - - U)ILL Us Vo TAEl6 $. NO ASPHALT o¢ c6&) &FwTE PADS WILL HE pROUIDED .RIL, BEurME5 oR BLaseH MS ft mj6sA WOULD 1-. LIMIT 45E OF FIELDS -IA) aSTIUEST 1'. 'DIQFLTION . 1' I 1' i ril 1� 1 . 1\ &K4001 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO December 5, 1991 To: Parks and Recreation Commission '' From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assista(n@}5 ) Subject: Request for Indoor Park Recently, the City received a letter addressed to Parks and Recreation Commission Chair John Huber requesting that the City consider an indoor park along the lines of an example discussed in an attached magazine article. (Please see attached letter and article.) I have put this item on your agenda for discussion and consideration purposes. Staff would like to know your thoughts about this request before taking any further action. Obviously, resources that may be available will be prominent factors in any consideration of a request to implement an indoor playground facility. Minnesota, as we have recently been made aware, has harsh winters that can limit the recreational activities of young children. The Commission is aware that the City does not have any Recreation staff or indoor facilities. Some resources do exist in the community, however, and I will attempt to outline some of them. The Early Childhood and Family Education (ECFE) is a program within the Community Education department of ISD-197 and they sponsor classes for parents and children, as well as events whose themes are to bring parents and children together on a regularly scheduled basis. The classes are structured on a registration basis and ECFE does not have any drop in type of play program. Community Education does offer "Magic of Motion", which is a movement class for children aged 2-5 that includes play activity, as well as other classes for parents and children. ECFE does not offer more play activities because they do not wish to duplicate services offered by private dance clubs and because they feel staffing drop in play facilities is inefficient. There are numerous dance clubs in the area and Turner's Gymnastics may offer play activities for children. ACTION REQUIRED Acknowledge receipt of the request and discuss indoor playgrounds to provide direction to staff on this item. t thY.� !t "It «i ited The Discovery Center, our local children's museum, and watched the kids at play. We spied on children in playgrounds, preschools, and local play groups. Eventually we put to- gether the Play House. How we did it. We decided to organize the room into separate play areas. We placed the baby area —soft toys, a huggable activity rug —in front of park benches, where parents could relax between playing and swooping. Adja- cent to the baby area is the quiet area, with tables and chairs, where grown-ups and children share art sup- plies, books, toys, and puzzles. A play kitchen stands nearby. We set up the active area in the back corner of the room, roped off with safety nets. It's equipped with huge rubber balls, play mats, and foam -rubber animals. Close by is a slightly less frenetic climbing -and - sliding area —a few climbing pyra- mids and blocks, some padded mats, a four -seater rocking rowboat that doubles as a footbridge when turned over, and a sturdy wood slide —safe for toddlers but acceptable for older children too. One corner of the room is occu- pied by the most popular toy in the room, the sand table. Much of the kitchen equipment —pots, brooms, and cups —winds up here. When kids grow tired of the sand table, they can wander a few feet away to the make-believe corner, which fea- tures a puppet theater, a chalkboard, and a storefront all in one. Actual use of the room is fluid; the kids move from one area to the next, by ones or twos or in a big parade. Visually, the wall-to-wall carpeting and colorful murals pull the room to- gether. We decided against having re- corded music on regularly because it's nicer when the kids provide their own sound effects. But sometimes someone brings in a children's tape. How it works. We've discovered, the fewer rules 'he better. Children must be accom- Zied by an adult at all times; Tone helps to limit the chaos. -'lay House is open Monday Friday, 9:00 nm. to 1:00 P.m., r school is in session. No ad - is charged. Two parks - department staff members are on hand whenever the Play House is open, to greet the parents and chil- dren, make newcomers feel at ease, and help keep it safe and tidy. There is an official limit of fifteen children at one time. To avoid disap- pointments or long waits, parents are '�.. -sometimes advised to call the parks department in advance and to re- serve an hour of play. In fact, no one has ever been turned away at the door or been sent home before he or she was ready to go. By the spring of that first year, Eli had returned to day care, and we were back to life as usual. But on April Fool's Day a year later, we slowly climbed the steps together for the opening of the Play House. Mayor Crabbe, a stranger to both of us, stopped to take Eli's other hand: The Play House room was filled with administrators, the press, and, best of all, parents and their children, eager to get down to the business of play- ing and being together. Dave Cody remarked in his opening -day speech, "Every parent who lives in Bing- ha mton knows that the long winter can be hard on small children who are forced to remain indoors. In open- ing this playroom, we hope to pro- vide parents and children the oppor- tunity to leave home and have some tun without having to brave the ele- ments or pay a fee." The Play House has been, from the very start, a rousing success. It draws parents of every age and back- ground. Family —day-care providers bring their kids; grandparents come to spend the morning; parents bring one child or a few. As one woman remarked, "It functions a lot like a playground, only it's more intimate. You can be instantly talking with someone as if you were the best of friends, or off by yourself. And it's never the same two days in a row." There has already been talk of opening more Play Houses in other Binghamton schools. Everyone wants to use it. And whenever I in- vite my now three -year -old son to a playground, he says, "Okay. Let's go to the indoor one!" OO LIz Rosenberg is the author of several chil- dren's books, the most recent of which is The Scrap Doll jHarperCOffins,. She teaches English and creative writing at the State University of New York at Binghamton. 97 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO December 5, 1991 To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assista Subject: Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park Presentation of Master Plan DISCUSSION Recently, the City received a request from the Metropolitan Council to comment on the Master Plan for the Harriet Island/Lilydale Regional Park. The City of St. Paul is seeking funding for this park through the regional park system funded by the State of Minnesota and implemented by the Metropolitan Council's Parks and Open Space Agency. Staff will provide a presentation of the Master Plan for your review on Tuesday. The document is 75 pages and has not been reproduced for the meeting. St. Paul has been promoting this plan for some years now. St. Paul has finally agreed on master planning issues involving the marina at Harriet Island and is proceeding with the implementation of the project. (I have attached a staff response to the Metropolitan Council, a map of the master plan and a copy of minutes from a 1988 presentation by Tim Agness, of St. Paul Parks Department to our City Council.) ACTION REQUIRED A short presentation will be provided for discussion purposes. Mr. Arne Stefferud December 5, 1991 Page 2 about certain specifics of the plan are not intended to be opposition to the development of this park. I would appreciate an attempt on your part to provide some answers about the lighting, noise and traffic concerns raised in the letter. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant KLB:kkb cc: Tim Agness, City of St. Paul a REVISED CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAROTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AGENDA MARCH 15, 1988 - 7:30 P.M. 1. Call to Order. 2. Roll Call, 3. Agenda Adoption. 4. Approval of March 1 Minutes, 5. Consent Calendar: a. Acknowledgement of February Treasurer's Report. b. Approval of Partial Payment No. G-4, to Joseph Company for City Hall. c. Acknowledgement of February 9 Park & Recreation Minutes. d. CAO Case No. 88-03. Linsmavery Modified Site Plan Approval e. Acknowledgement of Letter from Dakota County on Traffic Conditions on Victoria and Marie Avenue. f. Resolution Appointing Election Judges. (Resolution No. 88-15). g. Acknowledgement of Fire Dept. February Report. h. Approval of Public Hearing Comments Regarding County Licensing of Waste Haulers. i. Approval of the List of Contractor Licenses, 3. Approval of Cigarette License. k. Approval of 3.2 Non -intoxicating Malt Liquor Licenses. 1. Approval of List of Claims. End of Consent Calendar, 6. Introductions. 7. Public Comments. 8. Bid Award and Public Hearing: * a. 1988 Street Sweeping Bid Award. b. HEARING on Vacation of Part of Pagel Road. 7:45 P_ M.1. (Recommend Continuing to April 5 meeting). 9. Unfinished and New Business: a. Presentation by Tim Agness on Updating of Lilydale Regional Park. * ,b. Recommendations of City Hall Subcommittee on Interior. Design and Telephone Consultant Services. Page No.2305 March 15, 1988 Responding to a question from Councilmember Blesener, Mr. Agness stated that he is continuing to explore possibilities for connecting a trail from the regional park into the City's trail system but has not yet come up with a solution. With respect to an inquiry from St. Paul Attorney Jerry Segal over willingness on the part of Mendota Heights to allow St. Paul to annex two small sections of the park which are in Mendota Heights, Mayor Mertensotto expressed concern. He felt that the City would lose any control it might have over use of the parcels if they are allowed to be annexed. Administrator Frazell stated that annexation is important because of the policing aspect -- St. Paul would have responsibility for policing if it were annexed -- and that neither parcel has any value for development purposes. Attorney Hart stated that the annexation would provide for clean lines of authority and responsibility, which he felt is important. Mayor Mertensotto felt that staff should research the implications of annexation more fully before going into negotiations with St. Paul. He felt that Mendota Heights will have no way of correcting any problems which may occur if it allows annexation. Councilmember Blesener felt that the annexation is appropriate and that staff should be directed to proceed with discussions with St. Paul. Councilmember Witt agreed, stating that any potential problems will be uncovered in the discussions. Mayor Mertensotto directed the Administrator to ask for a response from Chief Delmont before going into discussions. With respect to formal comments to St. Paul on the proposal, Councilmember Blesener stated that she would like to see the parking lot on the bluff to be an early part of the project and that there should be a provision for walking access at the end of Annapolis to the park for bikers and hikers. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO December 6, 1991 TO: Park and Recreation Commission FROM: James E. Danielson Public Works Director SUBJECT: Van - Park Dedication Offer Mr. Ted Van platted five single family lots located east of Hunter Lane a few years ago. As part of that plat Mr. Van was also required to plat a street (Mallard Lane) that would provide future access to the interior portion of the large block. A large portion of this interior block is owned by Dr. Jim Olin. Dr. Olin is currently preparing plans to develop this land and that development does not use Mallard Lane for access. Construction of Mallard Lane would require the filling of a portion of a protected wetlands, and it is highly unlikely that the Federal agencies required to approve such filling would allow it to be done. Dr. Olin proposed to dedicate his portion of the wetland and the land surrounding it to the City for Park. This dedication would occur at the time his development goes forward. Mr. Van had also platted an outlot adjacent to Mallard Lane. This outlot would have been developed as a single family lot when Mallard Lane was constructed. Mr. Van has been paying taxes on that outlot as a buildable lot ever since it was created. Mr. Van recently approached the City to discuss different ways in which he could develop the outlot. After reviewing several options he has come to the conclusion that the best use for the land would be to dedicate it to the City for park land. Staff agrees that the park land option would be an excellent use for the property. When combined with the future park dedication from the Olin Subdivision and existing City Hall land, this area could provide a very large passive park surrounding City Hall. This park could then ultimately have a trail system constructed that would provide an enjoyable natural walking area (see attached map). ACTION REQUIRED: Review Mr. Van's proposed park dedication proposal and make a recommendation to the City Council on whether the City should accept Dr. Van's proposal. JED:dfw Ted and Joy Van 1885 HUNTER LANE ST, PAUL, MINNESOTA 55118 December 5, 1991 Jim Dat;ielson City of Mendota Heights 1101 Valley Curve Rd. Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Dear Jim, Per our recent conversation, I propose to donate _<,..:. a parcel of land to City of 14endota Heights located in Section 27, Township 28, Range 23, Dakota County, adjacent to swampland and ridge of Dr. Jim Olin which may be donated in the future I understand. Map enclosed shows Out lot A - 37,625 square feet and Mallard Road - 19,710 square feet, making a total of 1-1/3 acres. This land was completely fenced by me for a horse pasture for same and I would to maintain appreciate well-groomed your appearance. letting -me use it Please acknowledge if this transaction is satisfactory. Thank you, 7 / VAN - PARK DEDIL"ATION OFFER CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO December 5, 1991 To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assis a 3 Subject: Verbal Updates DISCUSSION The following are some brief notes on updates involving park related items: Park Dedication Fees At the Commission's request, a recommendation was made to City Council to raise the Park Dedication Fee involving subdivisions of single family lots. The old fee of $600 per lot was recommended to be raised to $700 per lot. The Planning Commission reviewed this recommendation, endorsed it and recommended $1,000 per lot. The City Council established the new rate at $750 per lot. Council also directed staff to include in the resolution a stipulation that commercial/industrial subdivision and development cash dedications be 10% of land value. Victoria Road/Highway 13 Trail Alignment The City Council approved a resolution requesting that MnDOT include an eight foot (8') wide bituminous trail as part of the State Project 1902-42 (new Victoria alignment). The trail will extend along the old Victoria alignment from the north side of Diane Road to Trunk Highway 13 and will not follow the new alignment because of steep grades and narrow right-of-ways. (See attached memo and plan.) West Publishing Letter I have attached the letter that was sent to West Publishing at the Commission's direction last month. We have not heard from West Publishing since. Trail As part of the Park Bond Referendum a trail was planned for along the east side of Victoria. Because of narrow right-of-way and steep side slopes along Victoria's new alignment a trail can not be constructed there. The new trail would continue to follow the existing Victoria align- ment. Funding for this trail would be by Park Bond Referen- dum. Mn/DOT requires that the City adopt a resolution requesting that the trail construction be included with their project and agreeing to City funding of its costs. Temporary Easement Dakota County is acquiring the right-of-way for this project and as part of that work they have discovered that Caren Road was not constructed on platted right-of-way (the City owns fee title to the land). The County therefore feels that they need a construction easement from the City to complete work in this area (see attached). RECOMMENDATION• With respect to Mn/DOT Project No. 1982-112 and 1902-42 I recommend the following: 1. That the City pursue County and MSA funding for the utility adjustments required. 2. That Mn/DOT, as part of this project, construct an 8' wide bituminous trail on the east side of Victoria Road beginning north of Diane Road and extending northerly until its intersection with Trunk Highway 13. 3. That the City grant a temporary construction easement to Dakota County for the work on Caren Road, ACTION REQUIRED: If Council. desires to implement the recommendation they should pass a motion adopting Resolution No. 91-_, RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION IN- CLUDE A TRAIL ALONG VICTORIA ROAD AS PART OF STATE PROJECT 1902- 42, and a motion to authorize the Mayor to execute the attached temporary easement on behalf of the City. JED:dfw November 27, 1991 Mr. Jeff Henry West Publishing 610 Opperman Drive P.O. Box 64526 St. Paul, MN 55164-0526 Dear Mr. Henry: I am writing to inform you that West Publishing's proposal for a men's and women's softball league in Mendota Heights was presented to our Parks and Recreation Commission on Tuesday, November 12, 1991. I am sorry to inform you that the Parks and Recreation Commission did not support your proposal. Following their discussion of the West Publishing proposal, the Parks and Recreation Commission directed me to advise you that there would be no accommodation of non-resident softball interests until the City needs are determined and softball policies are established. As we discussed in our meeting, the City does not currently employ any recreation staff and is in the infancy of developing policies and programs for our new facilities. I am hopeful that the City will address these staffing, policy and program questions over the course of the winter. However, at this time we cannot offer any commitment for your proposed softball leagues. I would be happy to discuss this issue in more detail with you, or to meet with you at a later date when we have more structure to our recreation programs. Sincerely, Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant KLB:kkb cc: Parks and Recreation Commission