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1998-12-08 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AGENDA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION December 8, 1998 6:30 p.m. -Large Conference Room 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of the November 10, 1998 Minutes 4. Cross Country Skiing Discussion _ 5. Special Olympics 6. Updates • Recreation Report, December 1998 • Parks Report • Police Report (Available Tuesday) 7. Adjourn Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities aze available upon request at least 120 hours in advance. If a notice of less than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make every attempt to provide the aids. This may not, however, be possible on short notice. Please contact City Administration at 452-1850 with requests. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 10, 1998 The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, November 10, 1998, 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: Spicer, Norton, Linnell, Damberg, Craighead, and Libra. Commissioner Liberacki was excused from the meeting. Also present were Councilmember-elect Mary lean Schneeman, Recreation Programmer Bill Bird, Parks Project Manager Guy Kullander and Administrative Assistant Patrick C. Hollister. FULL TIME RECREATION PROGRAMMER Chair Spicer asked for a motion to recommend to the new Council that the City hire afull- time Recreation Facilitator. Commissioner Damberg moved to recommend to the new Council that the City hire afull- time Recreation Facilitator, Commissioner Norton seconded the motion. AYES: NAYS: MINUTES Commissioner Damberg moved to approve the September 8, 1998 minutes with no corrections. Commissioner Libra seconded the motion. AYES: NAYS: FRIENDLY HILLS MIDDLE SCHOOL RECREATION EQUIPMENT REQUEST Liz Wynne, Principal of Friendly Hills Middle School, presented her request for the City to assist in funding outdoor recreational equipment for the middle school. Ms. Wynne presented information addressing the Commission's previous concerns about safety, insurance, and maintenance. adult softball and that there may be objections from softball teams if they have to play at another field. The Commissioner tabled this issue until January in order to give Staff time to discuss with MHAA possible cost -sharing arrangements for converting the Civic Center field to baseball and also to determine the implications for softball of making this conversion.. UPDATES Staff provided updates on the following items: • Recreation Programmer's Report • Cross -Country Skiing at Par 3 • Parks Report • Police Report ADJOURN Motion made to adjourn by Spicer and seconded by Damberg. AYES: 6 NAYS: 0 The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Patrick C. Hollister 3 CITY OF MEND TA HEIGHTS MEMORANDUM TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: BILL BIRD, RECREATION PROGRAMMER RE: CROSS COUNTRY SKI TRAIL AT PAR 3 GOLF COURSE DATE: DECEMBER 4, 1998 For the past month a coalition of individuals have been working on developing a cross country ski trail at the Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course. After meeting on November 12, 1998 it was apparent that a trail would indeed be established on the golf course for the winter months of 1998-1999. Please see the information which is included in the December "Recreation Report" for details on the meetings, those in attendance and the proposed budget from Mike Cashill, Golf Course Owner. On Tuesday, December 8, 1998 the following people will be present at the Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting: Mike Cashill, Golf Course Owner Tom Gustafson, Henry Sibley High School Ski Coach Mike Brill, Athletic Director of Visitation High School Bill Bird, Recreation Programmer Norm Gellerman, MHAA Executive Director This will be the perfect opportunity to discuss the trail, trail maintenance and each parry's role in this collaboration. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMORANDUM TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: BILL BIRD, RECREATION PROGRAMMER . RE: SPECIAL OLYMPICS OF THE "SOUTH METRO" AREA DATE: DECEMBER 4, 1998 The City of Inver Grove Heights has approached the City of Mendota Heights about a financial contribution to the area's Special Olympics program. Please read the attached letter and information sent from Marcie Padgett, Recreation Supervisor with the City of Inver Grove Heights. She will be contacting me in the next few weeks to discuss a possible contribution with me. INVER GROVE HEIGHTS November 23, 1998 Bill Bird Mendota Heights Parks & Recreation Department 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Dear Biil: Since 1998, the Inver Grove Heights Parks &Recreation Department has been administering a Special Olympics Program/Team for the South Metro Region, including Inver Grove Heights, South St. Paul, Mendota Heights, and West St. Paul. This team competed for 2 years (1988-89) and then disbanded due to a lack of volunteers to coordinate the team. In 1991, the International World Games were held in Minnesota and the athletes and their pazents witnessed this huge event and realized that their children were missing out on a great opportunity. The four cities were contacted once again, to re-formed the South Region "Stars" Team. I filled in as the "Interim" Coach while the Minnesota Special Olympics Staff searched for a coach. The program began again in October of 1991 and has since expanded from 9 athletes to over 100 athletes that are now registered with Special Olympics of Minnesota. The team practices and competes year-round in 8 different sports at both Metro Area and State Wide Competitions. We have even sent athletes to International Games - Charlie Wollin of South St. Paul competed on the track team in 1995 in Connecticut, winning a Bronze Medal in the 800 Meter Walk Race and 6"' Place Ribbon in the Running Long Jump. In 1999, Lisa Shafer of West St. Paul and Eric Fox of Inver Grove Heights will travel to Raleigh/Duham, North Carolina, to compete in Bowling and Track/Field, respectively. This is a huge opportunity for these local athletes (..�ith all expenses paid for them), to complcte at an International Level and succeed. The problem encountered by the IGH Parks &Recreation Department is that because we started this program, we are currently the sole financial and volunteer support of this team. This has to change because of the large number of athletes in our program from all 4 cities. Currently the schedule, practices, competitions, uniforms, fund raising, equipment, mailings, financial support and volunteers are all supplied by the City of Inver Grove Heights. Each of the 4 cities contribute in the areas of facilities (gym space) and PR (brochures). While this is very much appreciated by the coaches and team members, as well as the IGH Parks and Recreation Department, the financial support lacking from the other 3 cities is badly needed. 8150 BARBARA AVENUE INVER GROVE HEIGHTS, MN 55077 TELEPHONE (612) 450-2500 •CITY OFFICE FAX (612) 450-2502 •POLICE FAX (612) 450-2543 South Region LLStars Special Olympics Team - - -Yearly Expenses - January - - Area 1142 Floor Hockey Tournament - Columbia Heights - - 40 athletes a S I0.00 = 5300.00 - Equipment to be pumhved:. . - Floor H«key Sticks 24 QS7.00=SI68.00' Pucks 24 @ 5200 = 54&00 . . .Hclmcts - 24 @ S22-00 = 5528.00 - -Blockers-2QS50.00=SI00.00 - .; 'Goalie Gloves - 2 g S31.00 = 574.00 February - Area 12 Basketball Competition ' -Eagan - No athlete fah ' - _ State FloorHnekey Tournament, Bemidji - .10'athkies @ SM,00 - 5300.00 - Motels-4 Roams; @ W.00 + 3 nights-5480.00 - _ ---. ;Tra-n12.-xams-!M.rr? March — Area 12 Swim Meet - ShorMiew . No athlete fro , State Unified Bowling Tournament - Brooklyn Center - 60 athletes & unified partners Q SI5.00 = 5900.00 . - April - - � F . State Baslcethan Competition Rahc eror SLab d 35 athldn Q S30.00 = 51,050.00 -' - TravelEapena-550.00 - Molds-l0 rooms-2 nights each @ 540.00 per night=S800.00 . .. State Swim Med-Richfield - . 30 atkkies@ S1S00=S450.00 .. - - - - Rentalorpool forpnctices-Simley H.S.s IGH. _ - - - 12 darn MAY Ares 12 Tnck Med - Whitc Bear Lake k&No athlete f ets June State Track Mect- UmNTrsity of MN Track.; 40 athletes Q SM,00 —51,200.00 - - - - Motels 10 mono for 1 night ® 540.00 = 5400.00 - Track Equipment- timer, batons, etc -SS0.00 July,August,.--: September - Practicesonly-Softhan, Soccer, and Tennis - - - October - Area 12 Bowling Tournament - Little Canada No athlete far - Nm^aber - - Stzic B elingTournamcet.-FAc .n - - 30Atbldes®515.00=5450.00 - - December - Escape CrewrS Region Stsrs Christmas Party .. Croatian Han, SSP - - Entertainmcnt - SM-00 Food, Supplies-5200.00 Prizes- ' , 550.00 (Hall Remal- 5450.00 Deposit) - - Bawling Awards -35 r@S5.00=5175.D0 Additional Eapensns -. Uniform; for each athlete - - 595.00 per athlete includes Jacket, Pants, Shirt, Shorts, Fiat - First Aid Supplies -SM.00 - hfailings perycv 4100.00 - Misccllaneas supplies -slodw Fund It ising Projects ScpL - Star City Days Booths- Super Slide, Smash for Casb, Dock Pond OcUNov. Bowl -A -Thou April - KGmcdy Koach Trip to Casrw June -August - Stephen's hfarkci -PepsW ewn Others - Donations from Serlice Groups, L«A Business - Candy Sales � That comprehensive, year-round sports training is available to every Special Olympics athlete, conducted by well qualified coaches in accordance with the standardized Sports Rules formulated and adopted by Special Olympia s International; and that every athlete who participates in a Special Olympics sport will be trained in that sport. ® That every Special Olympics program includes sports events and activities that are appropriate to the age and ability of each athlete, from motor activities to the most advanced competition. � That Special Olympics provides full participation for every athlete regardless of economic circumstance and conducts training and competition under the most favorable conditions possible, including facilities, administra- tion, training, coaching, officiating and events. ® That Special Olympics gives each participant an equal chance to excel by basing competition in every event on accurate records of previous performance or trial heats and, when relevent, by grouping by age and gender_ ® That, at every Awards Ceremony, in addition to the traditional medals for first, second and third olaces, athletes finishing from fourti� to fast place are presented a suitable place ribbon with appropriate ceremony. � That, to the greatest extent possible, Special Olympics activities will be run by and involve local volunteers, from school and college age to senior citizens, in order to create greater opportunities for public understanding of and participation with people with mental retardation. � That, although Special Olympics isprimarilyaorogramofsportstrainingandcompetition,effortsaremadetooffer, as an integral part of Special Olympics Games, a full range of artistic, social and cultural experiences such as tlances, art exhibits, concerts, visits to historic sites, clinics, theatrical performances and similar activities. �s That the goal of Special Olympics in every nation is to develop organizations and conduct events at the community level. Countries which, because of specific economic, social or cultural circumstances may find it difficult to achieve this goal rapidly, may hold National Games on a regular basis to enhance the development of popular understanding and provideincreasedvisabilih�fortheircitizenswithmentalretardation. All participating countries are invited to send a delegation to the Special Olympics World Games held every two years, alternating between Summer and Winter, provided that, in all cases Special Olympics standards are adhered to in the preparation of athletes and coaches for the Games. That the families of Special Olympics athletes are encouraged to play an active role in their community Special Olympics program, to share in the training of their athletes and to assist in the public education effort needed to create greater understanding of the emotional, physical, social and spiritual needs of people with mental retardation and their families. a Thzt Special Olympics encourages community, state and national sports programs, both professional and amateur, to include demonstrations by Special Olympics athletes as part of their major events. That Special Olympics activities take place in public, with full coverage by the media, so that athletes arith menial retardation may reveal to the world those special qualities of the human spirt in which they excel --skill, couraoe, sharing and joy. SOi t/S�':: �. � C IAA! ��L.4`f..�ICS � f i c�r,i �,-IC...-. _ TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: BILL BIRD, RECREATION PROGRAMMER DATE: DECEMBER 3, 1998 Mendota Heights Senior Club On Wednesday, November 25, 1998 Hary Bartz from "Neighbors" spoke to the group about the communities food, transportation and clothing assistance programs. The seniors also donated canned food to this program. Cross Country Ski Trail Meeting Date & Time:Thursday, November 12, 1998; 9:00 a.m. Location: Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course Those Present: Mike Cashill, Mendota Heights Par 3 Owner Tom Gustafson, Cross Country Ski Coach -Henry Sibley High School Mike Brill, Athletic Director -Visitation School Ann Norton, City of Mendota Heights Parks Commissioner John Norton, Mendota Heights Resident & Experienced Cross Country Skiier Norm Gellerman, Executive Director -Mendota Heights Athletic Association Paul Schuttes , Dakota County Parks Bill Bird, City of Mendota Heights -Recreation Programmer The meeting's focus was on establishing a cross country ski trail on the Mendota Par 3 Golf Course. The enthusiasm and dedication of all parties involved makes it apparent that a ski trail will be developed in December, 1998. The information listed below breaks down the comments, questions and commitments of each person who was in attendance at the November 12, 1998 meeting. Mike Cashill: Mr. Cashill committed to contracting with Dakota County for the grooming of the trail. The trail will be groomed by Dakota County once a week from December 1, 1998 through March 7, 1999. The preliminary cost of grooming the trail is $100. 00 per hour. The groomer should be able to complete the job in 1 hour. This comes to a total of 14 groomings at $100.00 each, for a total cost of $1,400.00. Mr. Cashill also is willing to open his clubhouse for a warming house and concession area. The club house will be staffed by Par 3 employees as well as part time City of Mendota Heights employees. Mr. Cashill has indicated that he will purchase ski's to be rented out to the public. Mr. Cashill also has allowed for the storage of a pull behind trail groomer and snowmobile in his maintenance garage. Mr. Cashill and his marketing director will also work on promoting the ski trail. Tom Gustafson: Mr. Gustafson has informed the group that Henry Sibley High School has a groomer which could be used to groom the trail at Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course. Mr. Gustafson and those involved with the Henry Sibley High School Ski team would volunteer to groom the trail with their groomer. However, the school does not have a snowmobile to pull the groomer. He is also extremely interested in having his school use the trail for practices as well as for meets. Mr. Gustafson also indicated that there may be the possibility that students may be able to assist with opening and closing the club house and the instruction of lessons. Mr. Gustafson mentioned that with the school district's budget cuts there would be no financial contributions available from his school. Mike Brill: Has expressed interest in using the Mendota Heights Par 3 course for practices and meets. Is checking into budget for possible contribution. Ann Norton: Ms. Norton will b'e checking into the possibility of a contribution from the City of Mendota Heights Special Parks Fund to the ski trail and equipment. Ms. Norton will be working with Bill Bird, Recreation Programmer. Ms. Norton will also be contacting Dakota County to determine whether there may be an agreement worked out which would lower costs involved with trail grooming. John Norton: Mr. Norton expressed a concern about trail quality. He felt that the trails must be maintained to a high level of quality. This means that the trails must be groomed after school practices and meets. Mr. Norton also was able to provide some information and advice on grooming equipment and a contact for purchasing a used snow mobile. A typical used snowmobile which would be ideal for pulling a groomer would cost approximately $2500.00. Mr. Norton mentioned that this type of snowmobile is available at "Power Equipment" of Bloomington, MN. Norm Gellerman: Mr. Gellerman offered to assist with publicity. Mr. Gellerman also expressed interest in the "Minnesota Youth Ski League" program. This is a program which brings cross country ski's and instruction into communities in Minnesota. Paul Schuttes: Mr. Schuttes provided much infotmation regarding his groomer, procedures, costs and trail layout. Bill Bird: Mr. Bird will look into the possibility of the City of Mendota Heights providing manpower to assist with grooming trails and manning the club house. Mr. Bird will also determine whether the city would approve the purchase of a snowmobile for grooming purposes. A ski trail would also open doors as far as city run programs such as ski outings, lessons and races. Cross Country Ski Trail Development Meeting Date & Time:Thursday, November 24, 1998, 9:00 a.m. Location: Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course Those Present: Mike Cashill, Mendota Heights Par 3 Owner Ann Norton, City of Mendota Heights Parks Commissioner Bill Bird, City of Mendota Heights -Recreation Programmer Meeting Recap: The meetings focus was on developing a budget and examining what funds may be available within the Parks and Recreation Budget and Special Park Fund. Mr. Cashill developed his 1998-1999 budget for operating a cross country ski trail at the Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course. Mr. Bird is contacting Henry Sibley High School and Visitation High School to keep communications going concerning the progress of the trail's development and to determine the "exact" use and commitment of each ski program. Mr. Bird will be putting together a packet documenting the progress of the ski trail development to be distributed to the Mayor, City Administration, City Parks Department, Parks and Recreation Commission and Ski Trail Committee. Ms Norton will be reviewing the budgets and checking into funding possibilities by Parks and Recreation Commission. A Parks and Recreation Commission meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 8, 1998, at 6:30 p.m., which will showcase the progression of the ski trail, public and private support for the trail and additional funding and contributions needed to successfully support a cross country ski trail in Mendota Heights. Nov-16-98 07:20P Cashill/Spaulding Prop. 6122210339 P_02 MENDOTA HEIGHTS CROSS COUNTRY SKIING 1998-1999 BUDGET Dates: December 6, 1998 through March 13, 1999 (14 weeks) Clubhouse Hours: (open to public) Saturday & Sunday 12:00 — 4:00 Monday - Friday 2:30 - 6:00 *Skiers may use the course 7 days per week, 24 hours a day. Total hours per week that the warming house will be staffed is 32. 32.5 per week x $8.50 =$ 276.25 per week. Cost to staff warming house Professional Course Grooming: We plan to hire the Dakota County Cross- Country Ski Trail Groomer to professionally groom our course every Friday throughout our skiing season. Total of 15 Grooms x $115.00 = $1,725.00 Daily Course Grooming: The Henry Sibley High School Cross -Country Ski Team recently purchased a groomer that will be towed behind a snowmobile. The cost of this groomer is $1,500.00. It offers grooming for both traditional and skating types of skiing. The High School has agreed to pay for this item. The Henry Sibley Ski Team has volunteered to pull the groomer over the entire course daily to ensure the highest quality of skiing. The Large County groomer will set and smooth the trail weekly while the smaller groomer will act very similar to an ice rink zamboni ensuring that the course is maintained daily. Activities: Our Clubhouse Staff will offer beverages and snacks, as well as offer the public rental ski sets. We will also act as a liaison in setting up city and school meets in addition to offering lessons to the general public. Course &Club House Fined Monthly Costs: Heat: $225.00 Electricity: $ 75.00 Water $ 25.00 Sewer $ 10.00 Clubhouse $550.00 Liability Insurance $185.00 Taxes $600.00 Plowing Lot $150.00 TOTAL $1,820.00 per month ! 4.3 weeks per month _ $423.26 per week Nov-16-98 07:20P Cash il l/Spaulding Prop_ 6122210339 P.03 Signage: Sign will be placed on Dodd Road advertising public cross-country skiing. *Mendota Heights Cross Country Ski Trail **Free — Open to Public ** Ski Rentals Available * *Club House Hours: Monday — Friday 2:30 — 6:00 Saturday & Sunday 12:00 — 4:00 Dodd Road Ski Sign Course Trail Signs - $200.00 Course Markers - $100.00 $500.00 One time cost In summary, to ensure the City of Mendota Heights a quality Cross -Country Ski Trail, we will need a budget of. Warming House Labor - $276.25 x 14 weeks = $3,867.50 Dakota County Groomers - $115.00 x 15 grooms = $1,725.00 Course and Club House Fixed Costs - $423.26 x 14 weeks = $57925.64 One Time Cost For Signage = $ 500.00 $ l 2,018.14 Ice Rinks I am still accepting applications for warming House/Rink Attendants. As I predicted it has been a challenge to recruit attendants. Although I advertised earlier and in more sources I have had only 5 people apply. Ideally there is a need for 10 employees to cover all of the rink hours. I have had inquiries the past couple of days which is encouraging. I am approaching the Athletic Association for possible assistance with staffing the warming houses. 1998 Park Permit Statistics The statistics listed below are solely based upon information from City of Mendota Heights Park Use Permits. CIVIC CENTER PARK Picnic/Shelter Permits: 1 Baseball Games/Practices: 8 Softball Games/Practices: 6 Tennis Court Permits: 0 Soccer Field Permits: 0 Ice Rink Permits: 0 Total Permits Issued: 15 Total Users of Above Permits: 370 FRIENDLY HILLS PARK Picnic/Shelter Permits: 1 Baseball Games/Practices: 2 Softball Games/Practices: 1 Tennis Court Permits: 2 Soccer Field Permits: 2 Ice Rink Permits: 1 Total Permits Issued: 7 Total Users of Above Permits: 769 HAGSTROM KING PARK Picnic/Shelter Permits: 0 Baseball Games/Practices: 1 Softball Games/Practices: 1 Tennis Court Permits: 0 Soccer Field Permits: 0 Ice Rink Permits: 0 Total Permits Issued: 2 Total Users of Above Permits: 45 IVY FALLS PARK Picnic/Shelter Permits: 1 Baseball Games/Practices: 1 Softball Games/Practices: 0 Tennis Court Permits: 1 Soccer Field Permits: 1 Ice Rink Permits: 0 Total Permits Issued: 4 Total Users of Above Permits: 162 KENSINGTON PARK Picnic/Shelter Permits: 9 Baseball Games/Practices: 0 Softball Games/Practices: 0 Tennis Court Permits: 0 Soccer Field Permits: 7 Ice Rink Permits: 0 Total Permits Issued: 16 Total Users of Above Permits: 1257 MARIE PARK Picnic/Shelter Permits: 1 Baseball Games/Practices: 0 Softball Games/Practices: 0 Tennis Court Permits: 0 Soccer Field Permits: 0 Ice Rink Permits: 3 Total Permits Issued: 4 Total Users of Above Permits: IN "AK" PARK Picnic/Shelter Permits: Baseball Games/Practices: Softball Games/Practices: Tennis Court Permits: Soccer Field Permits: Ice Rink Permits: Concession Permits: Misc. Field Use: Total Permits Issued: Field Users: Pavilion/Picnic Users: Total Users of Above Permits: ROGERSLAKE Picnic/Shelter Permits: Baseball Games/Practices: Softball Games/Practices: Tennis Court Permits: Soccer Field Permits: Ice Rink Permits: Total Permits Issued: Total Users of Above Permits: VALLEY PARK Picnic/Shelter Permits: Baseball Games/Practices: Softball Games/Practices: Tennis Court Permits: Soccer Field Permits: Ice Rink Permits: Total Permits Issued: Total Users of Above Permits: 59 61 10 35 0 4 3 3 9 124 5210 3227 8437 22 0 0 0 0 0 22 1230 13 0 0 2 0 0 15 599 VICTORIA HIGHLANDS Picnic/Shelter Permits: 3 Baseball Games/Practices: 1 Softball Games/Practices: 0 Tennis Court Permits: 2 Soccer Field Permits: 0 Ice Rink Permits: 0 Total Permits Issued: 4 Total Users of Above Permits: 150 WENTWORTH PARK Picnic/Shelter Permits: 4 Baseball Games/Practices: 0 Softball Games/Practices: 0 Tennis Court Permits: 0 Soccer Field Permits: 0 Ice Rink Permits: 4 Total Permits Issued: 8 Total Users of Above Permits: 192 Meetings Attended November 3-6: Minnesota Recreation and Park Association State Conference at Bandana Square, St. Paul. November 10: Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting. November 12: Cross Country Ski Trail Meeting at Par 3. November 19: Northern Dakota County Pulse Project Meeting at St. Stephen's Church, West St. Paul. November 24: Cross Country Ski Trail Meeting at Par 3. Working On... Ice rink reservations. -Late Winter/Spring programs. -Planning for the 1999 Mendota Heights Senior Club. -Cross country ski trail at Par 3. -Ice Rink Attendant hiring process. Parks Report of on of November 1998 ♦ General maintenance ♦ Cut grass ♦ Check parks for trash ♦ Finish transplanting trees for tree farm ♦ Picked up downed limbs in parks from wind storm on November 10"' ♦ Trim brush along pedways and chipped brush �0 Make berm behind hockey boards at Friendly Hills ♦ Put up new pedway signs at Wentworth Park ♦ Work on equipment for change over to winter CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA November 11, 1998 6:30 p.m. -Council Chambers 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of the September 8, 1998 Minutes 4. Proposed Civic Center Ballfield Conversion to Baseball Field 5. Updates • Recreation Report, October/November 1998 • Parks Report (Available Tuesday) • Police Report (Available Tuesday) 11. Adjourn Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities are available upon request at least 120 hours in advance. If a notice of less than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make every attempt to provide the aids. This may not, however, be possible on short notice. Please contact City Administration at 452-1850 with requests. CITY OF MEN DO HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES SEPTEMBER 8, 1998 The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, September 8, 1998, in the Large Conference Room at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. The following Commissioners were present: Spicer, Norton, Libra, Craighead, Linnell, and Liberacki. Commissioner Damberg was excused from the meeting. Also present were Parks Project Manager Guy Kullander and Administrative Assistant Patrick C. Hollister, FRIENDLY HILLS HOCKEY RINK LIGHT REPLACEMENT Mr. Kullander said that in order to conserve on electrical consumption and control the level of unnecessary spill light at the Friendly Hills Hockey Rink, he recommended that the Commissioner consider replacing the existing twelve 1500 watt flood lights with six to Night metal halide sports lighting fixtures which would be designed to focus the majority of the light output onto the rink area. Mr. Kullander said that his cost estimate was $3000- $4,000, and that the City may qualify for a matching grant from NSP for half of the cost. Mr. Kullander said that the City would install lights that were focused on the play area, not "floodlights". Conunissioner Libra moved to recommend that the City pay for the light replacement from the Special Parks Fund. Commissioner Norton seconded the motion. AYES: NAYS: INTRODUCTION OF NEW COMMISSIONER LAWRENCE CRAIGHEAD Chair Spicer said that the Council had appointed Mr. Steven Mein lass to serve on the Planning Commission and had appointed Mr. Lawrence Craighead to fill out the remainder of Mr. Kleinglass' term on the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Commission welcomed Mr. Craighead to the Commission. MINUTES Commissioner Linnell moved to approve the August 11, 1998 minutes with corrections. As. Wynne said that the school was working with John Doth, Supervisor of Maintenance and Grounds for the school district regarding safety issues. Ms. Wynne said that the company that manufactures the equipment, Project Adventure, has an excellent safety record. Ms. Wynne said that the kids would be trained on the safety rules and that the rules would be enforced. Commissioner Craighead asked what safety provisions would be taken after school hours. S. Wynne said that some of the equipment could be dismantled after school hours so that it is not an enticement to kids. Chair Spicer said that the City has limited financial resources and has to spend them carefully. Chair Spicer asked how, if the equipment would be removed after school hours, could this be considered a community facility. Liz Wynne said that she considered this new equipment to be a community facility since it could be used in programs run by District 197 Community Education. Chair Spicer said that over the years he has learned that any initial expenditure for recreational facilities incurs continuing costs for operation, maintenance, enforcement, etc. Chair Spicer said that he would not be interested in contributing to the up front cost of purchasing and installing this equipment without a commitment from the school district in writing that they would provide for the ongoing costs incurred by this equipment, including maintenance, liability insurance and conformance to ADA standards. Chair Spicer asked the three guests to return to next month's meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission with a commitment along these lines from the school district. FRIENDLY HILLS TOT LOT The following residents were present for this discussion: Roger Grabowski, Tom Bergmann, Paul Chamberlin, Lorry Lastine, Eve Bergmann, Wanda Shem, and Councilmember Krebsbach. Chair Spicer said that the City was deeded the four lots from the developer of Friendly Hills in the early sixties. Chair Spicer said that the City Council has made a determination that this land in not part of the park system, and that currently the City was only mowing the grass on the property. Chair Spicer said that the City had recently had an inquiry from an individual thinking about building a house on all or part of the property asking whether the City would sell the lots, and that most neighbors to the property have objected to it being sold. Chair Spicer said that Staff, at the Council's request, is currently researching the buildability and marketability of the lots. Councilmember Krebsbach said that she had come to the meeting because she had received a letter from an interested resident about possible improvements that could be made to the lots instead of selling them. Councilmember Krebsbach said that if the City ADJOURN Motion made to adjourn by Norton and seconded by Libra. AYES: 6 NAYS: 0 The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Patrick C. Hollister MEMO TO: Park & Recreation Commission FROM: Guy Kullander, Parks Project Manager SUBJECT: Civic Center Bald -Conversion to Baseball Only BACKGROUND The ballfield on the Civic Center site was moved and enlarged prior to construction of the City Hall in 1987. Special Park Funds have been used on several occasions for improvements at this site. (Fencing, benches, irrigations, etc.) The current field size can be considered small due to the limited outfield fence distance of 265 feet and the close proximity of the backstop fencing to home plate, which is eighteen feet. The outfield fence is located at the edge of a slope into a protected wetland and cannot be extended. The backstop is nine feet from a paved bike/ped trail. Moving or replacing the backstop would allow a maximum shift of location of six feet toward the paved trail. REQUESTED IMPROVEMENT Scott Miller, from MHAA, has requested consideration of converting this field to baseball only with a pitching mound and turf infield. I assume the City would act as the General Contractor and through an invitational bid process hire one or more contractors to perform the work required. City park maintenance workers would advise on some aspects of the improvements but would not perform any of the major work tasks because their routine maintenance responsibilities do not leave time for projects such as this one. WORK TASKS /ESTIMATED COSTS 1. Prepare plans, specifications, bid documents. 2. Remove sod beyond agline baseline 3. Sprinkler system modifications 4. Remove agline infield 5. Install underground electric service 6. Install pitching mound 7. Install 6" topsoil for infield 8. Install sod infield 9. Spread agline, adjustments, etc. 10. Survey, inspection, etc. $ 1,500 250 3,000 750 1,000 500 1,500 3,000 1,000 I,000 Estimated Project Cost = $ 13,500 Recreation Report October/November 1998 TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION -� FROM: BILL BIRD, RECREATION PROGRAMME fj` , DATE: NOVEMBER 2, 1998 Mendota Heights Senior Club: On Wednesday, September 23, 1998 the senior club held their "Fall Kickoff" meeting. There were door prizes given away, including a Mendota Heights Senior Club T-shirt. The meeting focused on introducing new members and discussing upcoming plans for speakers, entertainment and special events. On Wednesday, October 28, 1998 the held a meeting featuring the Silvertones from West St. Paul. Many old time tunes were sung and several Silvertones members showcased their musical talents by playing the banjo, accordion and xylophone. We were all sad to learn that Corene Weisner had passed away a couple of days before. Corene was very active in the Parkview Plaza community, with volunteering and playing golf in the Mendota Heights Women's league. There is no doubt that she is missed already. On Wednesday, November 25, 1998 the club will feature Hary Bartz, from Neighbors. Hary will visit the meeting and talk about the Neighbors program. The seniors will also be gathering canned food for a donation to Neighbors. Programs: The Fall Heights Highlights features many traditional programs and activities, as well as several new recreational opportunities. Due to our close proximity to Fort Snelling State Park and the new Thomas C. Savage Visitor Center I have arranged some programming with Paul Kurvers, Center Director. I have also talked with Amy Tollas, Youth Program Director at Dist. 197, and included several programs in the newsletter which may be of interest to Mendota Heights youth. Meetings Attended September 23, 1998: Mendota Heights Senior Club at Parkview Plaza, October 6, 1998: Minnesota Recreation and Park Assoc at1On(MRPA) State Conference planning at Mendota Heights City Hall. October 8, 1998: Pulse Project at Learning Center, Dist. 197. October 13, 1998: MRPA State Conference planning at Bandana Square, St. Paul, MN. October 27, 1998: MRPA State Conference planning at Mendota Heights City Hall, October 3-6, 1998: MRPA State Conference at Bandana Square, St. Paul, MN. Working On... -Ice rink reservations. -Late Winter/Spring programs. -Planning for the 1999 Mendota Heights Senior Club. -Cross country ski trail at Par 3. -Ice Rink Attendant hiring process. MISCELLANEOUS: I am in search of Viking vs. Packer tickets for November 22, 1998. If anyone has tickets they are unable to use or are looking to sell their tickets please contact me at City Hall.