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2022-01-11 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Tuesday, January 11, 2022- 6:30 P.M. Mendota Heights City Hall-Council Chambers AGENDA 1.Call to Order 2.Roll Call 3.Pledge of Allegiance 4.Approval of Agenda 5.Approval of Minutes a.December 14, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes 6.Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda) *See guidelines below 7.Acknowledgement of Reports a.Par 3 Update b.Recreation Update c.Park Improvement Update 8.New Business a.Amendment to the Picnic Shelter Reservation Policy 9.Unfinished Business a. Draft Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan Review b.Winter Fest Update and Volunteer Request 10.Staff Announcements 11.Student Representative Update 12.Commission Comments and Park Updates 13.Adjourn Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities are available at least 120 hours in advance. If a notice of less than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make every attempt to provide the aids. This may not, however, be possible on short notice. Please contact City Administration at 651-452-1850. Guidelines for Citizen Comment Period: The Citizen Comments section of the agenda provides an opportunity for the public to address the commission on items which are not on the agenda. All are welcome to speak. Comments should be directed to the Chair. Comments will be limited to 5 minutes per person and topic; presentations which are longer than five minutes will need to be scheduled with the Recreation Program Coordinator to appear on a future Parks and Recreation commission agenda. Comments should not be repetitious. Citizen comments may not be used to air personal attacks, to air personality grievances, to make political endorsements, or for political campaign purposes. Commissioners will not enter into a dialogue with citizens, nor will any decisions be made at that presentation. Questions from the Commission will be for clarification only. Citizen comments will not be used as a time for problem solving or reacting to the comments made, but rather for hearing the citizen for information only. If appropriate, the Chair may assign staff for follow up to the issues raised. 1 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS, DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING DECEMBER 14, 2021 The December meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, 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, Bob Klepperich, Stephanie Meyer, Dan Sherer and Amy Smith; absent: Commissioner Jaffrey Blanks. Student Representative: Niko Hess. Staff present: Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence, Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek, Police Captain Wayne Wegener, and Police Officer Cara Hogan. 3.Pledge of Allegiance The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. 4.Approval of Agenda Chair Goldade suggested moving item 7D to be considered as 7A and then moving the other items down to follow. He also suggested that 8A be split into two items: Dakota County Ordinance 110 Mendota Heights City Code 4-2-2, Mendota Heights City Code 4-2-4; and Field and Facility Use Fee Discussion. Commissioner Klepperich suggested tabling Item 9B until the Commission has the opportunity to hold a joint worksession with the City Council. He commented that he feels the entities are operating in parallel and he would prefer to meet jointly to discuss the plan. Chair Goldade asked staff for input. Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence commented that she would like to provide a presentation to the Commission tonight to receive initial reactions from the group. She stated that the hope of staff would be to present the information to the Commission and Council to receive input. She stated that staff would then make the desired revisions and bring it back to a joint worksession. She noted that the Council has already received the presentation and provided its feedback. Chair Goldade confirmed that staff would like to make the presentation tonight to gather initial input and then hold a joint worksession. Commissioner Smith noted that the Commission has a spent a lot of time discussing items which are then vetoed by the Council and therefore she believed it would be a waste of time to have discussion tonight. She believed that it should be tabled to a joint worksession. Commissioner Sherer agreed with the comments of Commissioner Klepperich that it would be helpful to have the joint worksession. 2 5a. Commissioner Cotter commented that there is a large agenda tonight. He noted that the intent does not appear to have discussion tonight or do substantiative work, but more to receive the presentation. Chair Goldade agreed that after hearing the input of staff he feels comfortable leaving the item on the agenda. Commissioner Klepperich agreed that he would be supportive of receiving the presentation and withdrew his suggestion. Motion Meyer/second Cotter, to approve the agenda with the noted changes by Chair Goldade. AYES 6: NAYS 0 5.a Approval of Minutes from November 9, 2021 Regular Meeting Commissioner Sherer noted on page seven, the eighth paragraph, it should state, “…certain fields for baseball and baseball softball.” Motion Meyer/second Smith to approve the minutes of the November 9, 2021 Parks and Recreation Commission Regular Meeting as amended. AYES 6: NAYS 0 6.Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda) Adam Crepeau, 1016 Douglas Road and MHAA Board Member and Commissioner of Baseball, stated that he has attended the meetings of the Commission for the past two months and is available again tonight to provide any additional information related to items 8A and 9A. He noted that MHAA is very interested in the permitting process, ability to book weekend tournaments earlier, permitting fees, as well as dugout covers. He also asked for an update related to the Victoria Highland pitcher’s mound. Recreation Program Coordinator noted that she would be providing that update in Item 7C. 7.Acknowledgement of Reports Chair Goldade read the titles of the three updates (Par 3, Recreation, Park Improvement Updates, and Dog Park Update) and polled the Commissioners for questions. 7.d Dog Park Update Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence stated that Commissioners have received comments from residents related to the off-leash dog park. She noted that the dog park is currently designated as interim use through December 31, 2025. She stated that at this time the Council is not considering taking action on changing that designation. She noted that one concern that has been received is related to motor vehicle theft for users of the park. She stated that she has been working with the Police Department to review the recent incidents, noting that there were three incidents of theft in 2021. She advised that a sign has been installed alerting users not to leave valuables in their vehicle. She noted that she continues to work with the Police Department to study the area and encouraged residents to call 911 if they see any suspicious activity at the dog park. She stated that she has asked Captain Wayne W egener and Officer Hogan to attend tonight to assist in the discussion. She stated that another issue that has been brought forward is holes that have been created from dogs digging. She noted that staff does not have the capacity to fill all the small holes but does attempt to address large areas that need attention. She urged residents to assist in cleaning up after their dogs. 3 Commissioner Cotter stated that the dog park has fully grown trees that block the view of vehicles from the users of the park. He stated that obviously trees have value and asked if there is any other type of clearing that could be done to improve the view of vehicles for the users of the park. Captain Wegener stated that Officer Hogan reviewed the site and provided recommendations. He stated that the largest recommendation is to clear the underbrush and anything under the six-foot canopy of the trees to improve that view. Commissioner Cotter agreed that would seem to be an immediate action item that could provide some assistance with this issue. Chair Goldade stated that another suggestion has been off-street parking and asked if that has been considered. Ms. Lawrence commented that the park is designated as an interim use and therefore staff is cautious of spending thousands of dollars on a parking lot. She stated that staff recommends continuing to use street parking until more progress is made on the park. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek commented that, per City Code, a paved surface is needed for parking, which would have a cost of a couple hundred thousand dollars. He stated that public works has assessed the trees but that project would be beyond the resources of staff. He noted that a quote was received for the underbrush clearing of about $10,000. He noted that Acacia Boulevard is planned for a mill and overlay and although tree trimming was not originally included, that may be an option. He stated that staff is also considering a trail from Pilot Knob to the dog park entrance. Commissioner Sherer asked for more information on the vehicle theft, whether windows are broken or keys are left in the vehicles. Captain Wegener clarified that the reports are theft from vehicles, not theft of vehicles. He stated that typically the vehicles are unsecured and items are stolen from within. He stated that not having valuables in the vehicle or in plain sight is a deterrent. He stated that theft can occur very quickly and quietly. He noted that even if a window is broken, that is still relatively quiet and quick. Commissioner Smith asked if this trend is occurring at other parks or just this location. Captain Wegener stated that he did not pull data from other parks and therefore could not respond to that. Chair Goldade stated that it would seem the dog park would be an easier target with easy access to roads that provide a quick getaway. He welcomed input from the public. Sara Braziller, of 1959 Oak Street, stated that she finds it interesting that the dog park is referred to as an interim use. She stated that the dog park was originally called temporary and now it appears it will run through 2025. Ms. Lawrence clarified that the park is categorized as an interim use park through 2025. She stated that it may eventually be a permanent park or may become something else after that time. 4 Mr. Ruzek commented that the land where the dog park is located is zoned industrial. He stated that when the current five-year interim use permit for the park expired, the only option was to issue another five-year interim use because the land use could not change during the Comprehensive Plan process. He noted that the plan is to continue to have some type of park on the property and if it not a dog park, a dog park would be created in another location. Chair Goldade stated that the dog park is well used and would continue to exist in this location or another. Ms. Braziller commented that the dog park is well used. She stated that one of her suggestions to staff was to allow parking along the gravel road. Mr. Ruzek stated that the police would ticket those vehicles because the gravel road is not designed for that use. Chair Goldade stated that the addition of the sign and collection of data from the police will hopefully decrease the amount of theft, along with the resident education via Facebook. He stated that the community should now be more aware of the issue and be more attentive. He stated that staff also did an excellent job explaining the cost for a parking lot. Ms. Braziller stated that she also uses the dog park located in Eagan and noted that there is a police officer that parks in the dog park lot several times per day to discourage criminal activity. She suggested that perhaps Mendota Heights do that as well. Chair Goldade believed that the police have increased their presence in that area. Ms. Braziller stated that she was planning to put laminated flyers on the tables at the dog park to alert the users of the issue. She stated that she would also plan to place the flyers on vehicles. She asked if the Park Commission or staff would want their name on the flyers. Ms. Lawrence commented that she is unsure of the policy of putting flyers on vehicles on public property. She stated that contacting the Commission and staff is great, but issues noticed should be addressed by calling 911. Andrew Katz, 1960 Walsh Lane, commented that as a user of the park that frequents the park six days per week, the park is popular with not only residents but residents of other communities. He commented that it is one of the more appreciated dog parks in the metro area. He stated that the different issues with theft occurred during the summer. He stated that while the people did not notice the disturbance, the dogs did focus their attention toward that direction. He stated that perhaps a light could be placed on the utility pole near the on-street parking. He also suggested that perhaps a camera be installed in that area to capture activity. He stated that the users also mentioned removal of the buckthorn/underbrush. He noted that if the City does not have the resources, there are many users of the park willing to assist as volunteers in that type of project. He commented that when the City uses herbicide spray along the fence line, perhaps signage could be installed to alert users to keep their dogs away from that area. He referenced the holes created by dogs and realized that staff does not have the capacity to address that issue. He suggested that perhaps a pile of soil be placed by the outhouse and volunteers that use the park could assist in filling those holes. He commented that water and snow melt builds up over the winter months causing an unusable section. He suggested that perhaps that issue be addressed to assist with drainage. He commented that 5 the bench that was donated was donated by a family of a man from Eagan that used the park daily. He believed that encompassed how users of the park treasure that amenity. Chair Goldade asked the percentage of the holes that are dog-made. Mr. Katz commented that the holes are 100 percent dog created. He noted that the drainage issue results from perhaps heavy equipment that created ruts over time. Chair Goldade thanked the residents for their input. He also thanked Captain Wegener and Officer Hogan for their service. 7.a Par 3 Update Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence briefly reviewed the 2021 October Financial Report. She stated that the course shows a good financial status for the year with an operating surplus. She noted that there are some expenditures for November and December which will decrease the operating surplus as the course is now closed. She stated that information was also provided in the report that tracks the number of rounds purchased this year. She stated that three pieces of equipment were brought before the Council and were included in the now adopted budget, so staff will bring forward the purchase requests for the equipment to the Council at its meeting in January. She noted that the Council also reviewed the recommendation from the Commission related to the senior golf pass and advised that the Council approved continuing the pass for 2022 as recommended. Commissioner Sherer referenced the equipment and the previous suggestion to attempt to share equipment with neighboring courses. He asked if the old equipment could be sold for salvage value. Ms. Lawrence stated that the equipment can be traded in. She stated that the aerator is not running and therefore will be difficult to move off the property and will likely not receive a high trade in value. She noted that many of the neighboring courses have newer equipment and therefore are not interested in this equipment. Chair Goldade congratulated staff on another great season. 7.b Recreation Update Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence reviewed the recreational programing information included within the report. She stated that she intends to have the planning for the summer 2022 season completed by mid-January. She also highlighted upcoming winter programs and events. Commissioner Sherer recognized the increased partnerships with other municipalities and asked for details on the cost-share between the communities. Ms. Lawrence explained how the cost is allocated between the parties based on those registered from each community. Commissioner Smith asked how the bean bag tournament is being advertised. Ms. Lawrence stated that staff is still working on that and reviewed the different methods of communication that will be used to market the event. She confirmed that staff would be reaching out to the local schools to advertise the event. 6 Chair Goldade asked if Student Representative Hess could hang posters at his school if provided by staff. Student Representative Hess confirmed that he could do so but noted that there are not many places available that would be highly visible. Commissioner Meyer asked for an update on rink flooding. Ms. Lawrence commented that flooding of Marie and Friendly Hills has not yet begun. She stated that staff intends to begin the process later this week. She stated that the liner has been placed at Wentworth and was filled with water. She believed that rink would most likely be the first to open. She hoped to open the rinks December 30th, give or take. Commissioner Meyer asked if the ice at Wentworth would need to be smoothed. Ms. Lawrence commented that staff would continue the flooding process which will help to smooth it. 7.c Parks Improvement Update Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence noted that she plans to bring the recommendation from the Commission forward to the City Council related to light use at Marie Park and Friendly Hills for 2022. She stated that if agreed upon by the Council, she would send the recommended mailing to residents within 500 feet of Friendly Hills and would hope to receive public comment at the Commission’s February meeting. She reported that the Council has approved the dugout covers for Mendakota Park and hoped that the project would be completed in early spring. She stated that the Victoria Highlands mound request was brought forward to the City Council and the Council tabled the request, directing staff to solicit residents near the park for input, and also to gather input on the cost of temporary mounds. She stated that she has since met with local park and recreation staff to discuss temporary mound use. Commissioner Sherer stated that he is happy to see the approval of the Mendakota dugout improvement project. He asked if a completion date was included in the contract. Ms. Lawrence stated that a completion date was not provided but staff has asked that the work be completed as soon as it can. Commissioner Cotter stated that it is his understanding that staff will solicit feedback from the neighbors of Victoria Heights and research temporary mounds. He asked if the City would plan to purchase the temporary mounds or whether that would be a purchase made in conjunction with MHAA. Ms. Lawrence commented that has not been decided. She stated that in the discussion with staff from other cities, the cities are not purchasing the temporary mounds and those are purchased from the athletic associations. She stated that a nice temporary mound can be purchased for about $2,000, but recognized that can become pricey if being done for multiple fields. Commissioner Sherer commented that one disadvantage of the temporary mounds is the instability because of children using that field stepping off the mound for other actions. He was disappointed that the Council did not approve the recommendation but recognized that the 7 Council has been busy with other topics and did not watch the meeting and missed important information discussed by the Commission and MHAA. He commented that a real mound is not permanent in his mind as it can be removed with a skid loader. He stated that he would like to find a simpler way to complete easy projects such as this, especially when residents are willing to assist. Ms. Lawrence stated that the hope would be to solicit residents within 500 feet. She stated that a public meeting could be held for the Commission in March and move forward to the Council in April. Commissioner Sherer asked if that public engagement process is the new standard for any addition to a park moving forward. He commented on other park improvements that did not involve neighborhood comment through that format. Ms. Lawrence commented that staff received direction from the Council to solicit input from the neighborhood. She stated that community involvement is important as these are taxpayer dollars. Commissioner Smith stated that she has only seen baseball being played on that field, therefore she did not believe equity was a part of this decision. She stated that the Council suggested that perhaps the neighborhood uses the field for kickball. She commented that a friend of her daughter lives in that neighborhood and stated that she has only seen baseball and kids practicing soccer in the outfield. She believed that should be kept in consideration as this moves forward. Commissioner Meyer stated that in the discussion of the Commission it was determined that there were appropriate fields for both baseball and softball and therefore equity was not a concern. Ms. Lawrence commented that there is not a turf infield, therefore it is a multi-purpose field. She commented that turf infields are typically more successful with mounds. She stated that the City receives comments from softball parents stating that there is not enough field use for softball in Mendota Heights and that is why they use fields in West Saint Paul. Commissioner Meyer asked if the list of softball parents could be provided to her and Commissioner Smith to assist in their work on community outreach. Ms. Lawrence commented that is a great idea. She believed that perhaps Commissioner Smith would be more in touch with softball parents through MHAA. Commissioner Meyer commented that she would love to engage with some of the residents that have expressed concern. Ms. Lawrence confirmed that she could follow up with Commissioner Meyer to discuss. She noted that for this time the request has been tabled and will come back to the Commission in the future. Chair Goldade commented that the Commission was more willing to add a mound to Victoria Highlands than the City Council, therefore the request has been delayed. He stated that he would like the City and MHAA to work together to find a temporary mound solution for 2022 as he did not believe a permanent mound would come through for the 2022 season. 8 Ms. Lawrence confirmed that she has been in communication with MHAA and has also involved MHAA in the research of temporary mounds. Student Representative Hess asked if the basketball courts are also being considered for the park lighting. Ms. Lawrence confirmed that the basketball courts are included for Marie Park. She noted that she still needs to review Friendly Hills to determine if that could be done at that location as well. She stated that if the available lighting used for rinks would reach the basketball courts at that location, she would include that in the recommendation. Commissioner Sherer commented that Mendota Heights does not have enough fields for baseball and softball, noting that it is a challenge to find space for all the teams. He noted that without a nice athletic complex, the City will need to continue to use neighborhood parks as baseball fields. Motion Meyer/second Cotter to acknowledge the staff reports. AYES 6: NAYS 0 8.New Business 8.a Field and Facility Use Fee Discussion Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence commented that she was not aware the items would be split into two for this discussion. She noted that she prepared a presentation that she will provide, and the Commission can then split the related discussion as desired. She stated that this is the same presentation that the City Council received. She reviewed the policy history, noting that the policy dates back to 1992 but was not followed until 2018. She also reviewed related human resources available for permitting the facilities and related to maintenance. She stated that staff met with all user groups in January 2021 and noted that the fields and facilities continue to be in high demand. She highlighted the fields that receive the most requests. She noted that blanket permitting continued in 2021 which reserves fields that may not actually be used and results in a lack of public reservations. She believed that the City has a sufficient number of fields but the use of blanket permitting blocks other use. She commented that there was a lack of communication within MHAA and its parents. She stated that MHAA tournaments are larger and require more staff time. She stated that the Council approved a waiver in May for the tournament fees for MHAA. She stated that in 2021 the new tennis court reservation policy was put into place. She reviewed the actual 2021 hours of usage, noting that MHAA continued to have the most usage of all field facility usage. She reviewed details on the 2021 participants and revenue. She also compared the MHAA tournament revenue and compared that to the revenue that would have been gained without the waiver. She recognized the revenue generated by tennis reservations and noted that cost associates to about half of the revenue gained through that entire season. She stated that the current fees were included within the Commission packet. •Dakota County Ordinance 110 Mendota Heights City Code 4-2-2, Mendota Heights City Code 4-2-4 Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek commented that Dakota County has a goal of reducing waste and therefore any event within the City with 300 attendees must collect waste through trash, recycling, and organic waste bins. He noted that in 2021 there were four weekend tournaments and staff was used to collect the trash. He stated that the other neighboring 9 communities require the sponsors of the event to submit a waste collection plan to the city and perform those duties on their own. He stated that staff is requesting that these tournaments/events follow the same process to submit a plan and complete the trash, recycling, and organics collection on their own. Commissioner Cotter asked if there is an idea of the cost for that action per tournament. Mr. Ruzek estimated a cost of $300. Commissioner Cotter asked if that cost would be to contract with a trash collector. Mr. Ruzek confirmed that the tournament would contract with a trash collector and would provide a plan to the City on where those bins would be located. Commissioner Cotter commented that public works does a fantastic job keeping the parks clean and he would like to see that consistency remain. He asked if public works would recommend a vendor for the users in order to ensure consistency. Mr. Ruzek explained that staff would work with event sponsors and would not provide a recommendation on the best vendor. He noted that there are a number of companies that offer that service. He stated that as this program is further developed, staff could provide such recommendations. Commissioner Cotter commented that there is a continued dialogue between MHAA and public works and the City. He asked how the fees would be set, noting that this request would be a substantial increase. He stated that he would be looking at whether MHAA would have the revenue to cover that service. Mr. Ruzek stated that tournaments are used as fundraising events for MHAA and recognized that would be an additional expense. He stated that currently the City has a public works employee that is onsite and paid at time and a half. He stated that event sponsors would not be able to use the organics collection at Mendakota because that is setup for Dakota County residents and not event sponsors. Commissioner Cotter asked if volunteers could be used for onsite trash collection and whether the cost would be for the vendor to collect the trash. Mr. Ruzek confirmed that volunteers could be used to move the trash bag to the related dumpster. Chair Goldade stated that there are two issues related to trash; the dumpster and the party that will take the bag to the dumpster. He stated that in 2021 public works staff was used to bring the bags to the dumpster. Mr. Ruzek replied that public works staff brought the bags to a truck and hauled that to the public works facility as there is not an onsite dumpster at the park. Chair Goldade asked if staff is asking for feedback on who should pay for the dumpster and who would take the trash to the dumpster. 10 Mr. Ruzek stated that as part of the policy, an event sponsor would be required to submit a plan on how the solid waste collection would occur. Chair Goldade stated that in 2021 public works provided this service. He stated that it would appear that the event sponsor would either provide their own vendor or pay the $300 to have public works provide the service. Mr. Ruzek confirmed that while public works was used in 2021, staff would not be made available to provide that service for fee going forward. He confirmed that duty would shift to be the responsibility of the event sponsor. • Field and Facility use Fee Discussion Ms. Lawrence stated that the 2022 recommendations brought to the Council from the Commission were to eliminate the tennis court reservation system to enable courts to be used on a first-come, first-serve basis. She reported that the Council did not agree with that and continued the tennis court reservation program. She stated that the Commission recommended to allow MHAA to submit tournament requests the first business day of January and to ensure a prompt response from staff within 14 business days. She reported that the Council did approve that action as an amendment to the policy with the change to allow 21 days for response. She noted that all user groups can submit tournament requests the first business day in January with a response by January 24th. She noted that the final recommendation was to formally reduce the costs for tournaments for MHAA to a “not to exceed fee” of $498 per weekend tournament. She reported that the Council has asked the Commission to choose one of three options: 1) not to exceed tournament fee of $498 plus user would be responsible for solid waste removal, 2) fess for the tournament remain as included in the 2021 fee schedule without having a waiver, or 3) fees for the tournament remain as included in 2021 fee schedule plus user would be responsible for solid waste removal. Chair Goldade stated that the fees are reviewed on an annual basis, therefore the fees are not really permanent. Ms. Lawrence clarified that her intent was to say permanent for 2022. Commissioner Cotter asked for clarification on the fees for a weekend tournament at Mendakota. Ms. Lawrence replied that the cost would be $340 per day for four fields prepped. She commented that a three-day tournament would be $1,020 for the fields only and does not include concessions. She reviewed the staff duties that are included for prepping the fields. She stated that in 2021 staff was also emptying trashes, restocking bathrooms, and addressing messes that arise. Commissioner Sherer stated that he typically does not see staff during the day at tournaments and asked if staff is typically spending two hours per day on prep duties. Ms. Lawrence commented that the staff member is working throughout the day and checking in every hour or two to collect trash and then empty it at public works. She stated that previously public works came in to prep from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. but that then transitioning to the staff person working from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. and can then be called back should another issue arise. 11 Commissioner Sherer stated that he has not seen staff intermittently and only at the beginning and end of the day. Commissioner Cotter commented that it would sound like there is a cost difference of $200 between options one and two. He stated that because MHAA is the most likely tournament sponsor, it would make sense to gain their input on whether they would prefer the higher cost or be responsible for waste removal. He stated that input would be helpful. Ms. Lawrence stated that there is no deadline for the Commission to make that recommendation, but noted that MHAA will be submitting their tournament requests the first business day in January, and therefore MHAA would most likely want the fee set in order to know the appropriate cost to charge its users for the event. Commissioner Cotter stated that it would be nice to have the input of MHAA before making the recommendation. Chair Goldade noted that option one would be $498 plus $310 for the waste removal. Ms. Lawrence stated that $310 was the cost estimate provided from the one hauler in 2021, therefore the exact 2022 cost is not known. Mr. Ruzek stated that the event sponsor would be able to contract with the vendor of their choice. Chair Goldade asked if any of the options would include the City handling the waste removal. Ms. Lawrence replied that the City would provide that service in option two, which would have a cost of $85 per field per day which would equate to a cost of $1,020 for a three-day tournament. She noted that organics collection would still need to be done for the back of house, but staff would work with the event sponsor to dispose of the organics collected. She stated that option three would keep the costs in place from 2021 ($1,020 for a three-day tournament) and the user would have the responsibility of the waste removal. Commissioner Cotter stated that he would like to propose that a memorandum be provided to MHAA and the other user groups to provide these three options and solicit input. He did not believe any users would choose option three. He suggested that the user groups choose between options one and two and that the decision of the Commission be provided at the January meeting. He stated that his concern with event sponsors providing waste removal would be the consistency and whether it would be done well. Commissioner Sherer asked if this is a budget issue or what is driving the discussion related to waste removal. Ms. Lawrence replied that one of the main conversations with the Council has been related to who is paying for staff costs and supplies. She stated that the Council discussed in depth as to who should be paying these fees and whether the City should be subsidizing tournament costs using tax dollars from residents that do not participate in the tournaments. She stated that the Dakota County ordinance was brought forward as something that needs to be included in 2022, regardless of the fee discussion. She stated that the discussion is not just financial in nature. Chair Goldade asked if volunteers have ever been seen at tournaments dealing with trash. 12 Commissioner Smith replied that she has never seen that practice. Commissioner Sherer commented that MHAA is a volunteer-based organization where parents are coaching, scheduling, and running concession stands. He stated that if given the choice he would suspect that MHAA would prefer to have volunteers deal with the trash but recognized there is a point where volunteers are stretched too far. He agreed that there is a need for a larger scale discussion related to City subsidizing of youth sports associations. He stated that many other communities have sports programing through schools and the City, but in this community MHAA is the only organization offering those sports. He stated that in the past he believed there was a subsidy of $10,000 to MHAA for providing this type of programing and that has dropped to zero and swung in the other direction to charge fees. He stated that he recently reviewed the costs for tournaments in other communities, noting that West Saint Paul charges $250 for tournaments. He stated that registration fees have increased by almost 500 percent from 2011 to 2021 in order to cover the costs and fees charged for fields and tournaments. He stated that continued increases in costs will eventually impact the ability of lower income families to participate. He noted that while MHAA offers scholarships, many people are reluctant to apply and admit that they need the help. Ms. Lawrence stated that there has been inflation from 2011 to 2021. She stated that in the past when the City provided $10,000 to MHAA, the residents were paying that which means residents that were not playing sports were paying for that amenity. Commissioner Cotter commented that the Commission understands that but there is a City park and recreation department. He stated that the City and schools previously offered these services but no longer do so. He stated that this community offers those programs completely through a volunteer organization. He stated that in his time with the Commission there seems to be an adversarial thing between the two entities. He commented that this is why he would like the input from the user groups. He stated that if the structure of youth sports in this community is through a volunteer organization, there has to be some working together and coordination. He stated that input should then be used along with the consideration of continuity of services such as waste removal. Chair Goldade asked if staff can confirm that the City Council has adopted a tax levy increase of 6.7 percent. Mr. Ruzek believed that is correct. Chair Goldade asked if City staff is aware of any tournaments where volunteers are required to handle trash duties. Mr. Ruzek replied that he has not attended many youth sports tournaments, but has been to many concerts where event sponsors are required to provide that service. Chair Goldade asked if the City would be itemizing trash costs for concerts this summer. Mr. Ruzek replied that the City would be providing that service because that is a city community event and not a private, for-profit tournament. Chair Goldade stated that the City Council has requested the recommendation from the Commission and asked if the Commission could propose a motion at this time. 13 Motion Cotter to table this matter to the January meeting and direct staff to send a memorandum to the tournament user groups with these options and asking for their input prior to the Commission’s January meeting. Commissioner Sherer stated that he would propose a fourth option to leave the tournament fees at $498 and not requesting the event sponsor to pay for waste removal. Commissioner Cotter stated that he is not just looking for a choice out of the three options, but the explanation on the different choices. He stated that if option four is provided, users will select that option without explanation. Commissioner Sherer stated that under the actual fee structure, the organization breaks even. He stated that tournaments are meant as fundraiser in order to lower registration costs. Commissioner Klepperich stated that while he is sympathetic to that, he also recognizes the opinion of the City Council that some of these activities need to pay their way. He stated that even under the actual fee structure, the full costs of the City are not recouped. He believed they should reach a point where the fees come closer to paying for the tournament costs. Chair Goldade stated that it would appear the opinions of Commissioner Cotter to table and Commissioner Sherer to select option one without the waste removal costs are different and would not be the same motion. The motion died for lack of a second. Chair Goldade referenced the previously made suggestion of Commissioner Sherer which he believed was to recommend option one but to have the City to provide the waste removal service at the cost of the event sponsor of $310. Ms. Lawrence commented that if the City is responsible for waste removal, it would not contract for a dumpster as there is a dumpster available at public works. She clarified that it would appear Commissioner Sherer would be requesting a fourth option of a not to exceed fee of $498 for tournament field usage. Commissioner Klepperich stated that the City Council has already denied that option. Ms. Lawrence stated that the Council wanted staff to present the three options in the presentation. Commissioner Meyer commented that MHAA is a volunteer organization. She stated that as a parent with a child that participates in MHAA, most participants are Mendota Heights children, and the parent volunteers are Mendota Heights residents. She stated that she finds it incredibly frustrating that the argument is being made that the tax dollars of all residents should not be used to provide opportunities of recreation for other residents of the same community. She stated that when a community does not offer recreation opportunities for youth, the youth find other things to do that often are not positive. She stated that it is not desirable to live in a community that does not offer recreation opportunities, to have your vehicle vandalized, or to have your garage vandalized because kids are bored. She stated that the cost for participation should be reasonable for families. She stated that she does not like the option for City staff to work overtime and believed there may be other options that could be discussed. She asked if 14 the trash removal were being provided by the event sponsor would that mean that City staff would just prep the fields and be done for the day. Ms. Lawrence confirmed that if trash removal is not being provided by City staff, the staff would come in from 5 to 7 a.m. to prep the fields. She stated that currently there is a staff person that is on duty as a scheduled shift. She stated that when that person was added to staff, it was anticipated that the staff person could handle other responsibilities during that weekend shift rather than trash collection. She noted that public works is always on call to address issues that may arise. Commissioner Smith stated that if the City is making it unattractive for groups to use the facility, Mendakota would not be used on a weekend which is lost revenue. She stated that user groups will go to other cities that are more welcoming. Commissioner Sherer stated that fastpitch softball is using a different facility because it is more attractive. He stated that he does not like driving to northern West Saint Paul to watch his kids play soccer, but that is where the teams play. He noted that there are club sports moving in that offer coaches and nice fields and some parents are becoming more attracted to that programing. He worries that the City will lose community-based sports and that families that cannot afford higher costs will not be able to play. Chair Goldade commented that the recommendation for $498 has been sent to the Council once before and asked if Commissioner Sherer is suggesting that be done again. Commissioner Sherer hopes that members of the Council are watching the meeting in order to better understand the perspective of parents that are involved with youth sports in Mendota Heights. Motion Sherer to recommend a not to exceed fee of $498 for weekend tournaments. The motion died for lack of a second. Commissioner Cotter left the meeting. Ms. Lawrence stated that there is still one more decision related to club sports as part of this discussion. Mr. Ruzek stated that this would only apply to tournaments and would not apply to students playing MHAA baseball. Chair Goldade commented that this is one of those situations with an unintended consequence. He stated that the City accommodated a lesser fee during COVID-19 and therefore it would sting more to go back to the fee and add the waste removal. Commissioner Meyer commented that if this is going to be tabled it would kick the can down the road and avoid the job the Commission is meant to do. She asked if the Commission should suggest a cost between $498 and $1,020. Chair Goldade stated that his position is that the Commission provided a recommendation which the City Council did not like, but that remains the position of the Commission and if the Council desires, they can change it. He stated that he would suggest the Commission provide 15 information related to waste removal. He asked for input from the Commission on waste removal as he believes the recommendation on tournament costs has already been made at $498 the previous month. He stated that for the Council to send it back saying the Commission did not get the answer right, it would make sense that the Council can make the decision on its own as it did in 2021 to lower the cost to $498 without recommendation from the Commission. Ms. Lawrence stated that the Council directed this to go back to the Commission because of the new information related to the Dakota County ordinance related to waste removal. Commissioner Smith commented that volunteers are not allowed to do many activities in the park, such as creating the pitching mound as previously suggested by the Commission and MHAA, therefore she does not feel that volunteers should be used for trash removal. Commissioner Klepperich agreed. Motion Meyer/second Smith to recommend that tournament users should not be responsible for solid waste removal or related costs. Further discussion: Commissioner Sherer stated that it was mentioned that the City Council did not accept the previous recommendation of the tournament fee of $498. He asked if that was at a regular Council meeting. Ms. Lawrence replied that the conversation occurred at a worksession, which was a public meeting and open to the public. She stated that the Council cannot make formal decisions at worksessions but can reach consensus and send items back to the Commission. Commissioner Sherer asked if the conversation was specific to MHAA or all tournament users. Ms. Lawrence replied that for 2021 the only waiver issued was to MHAA, therefore all other users would have paid the three-day cost of $1,020. She stated that there are other organizations that hold tournaments. Commissioner Sherer stated that it would be helpful for the Council to receive additional input from MHAA on the impact that the increased costs would have on registration fees. AYES 5: NAYS 0 Ms. Lawrence stated that the City Council also wanted the Commission to review club per player fees. She commented that club organizations are becoming more prominent and are paying coaches. She stated that the Council wanted to know if there should be a higher cost for club sports. Commissioner Smith commented that MHAA does not provide traveling soccer, therefore there is no other option except for SALVO. She stated that SALVO would then be considered MHAA soccer. She noted that it is a nonprofit and that is the only option for the kids to play soccer. She stated that the Council has been driven to increase fees, but in her eyes, SALVO is similar to MHAA and therefore the price should not be increased. Motion Smith/second Klepperich to keep the priority four user fees from 2021 for 2022. Further discussion: Commissioner Sherer asked if there are requests from other clubs. 16 Ms. Lawrence stated that there have been requests from other soccer clubs, but they have not received fields thus far. She believed that she had also received a request from club baseball and club lacrosse, but neither were able to receive fields. Commissioner Sherer asked if there has been research as to what is done by other communities for clubs. Ms. Lawrence replied that the City fee is in line with other communities. Student Representative Hess commented that he has played soccer for years, as have many of his friends, and there is no other option for soccer in this community. He agreed that it would not be a good idea to raise the fee for club sports. AYES 5: NAYS 0 8.b Wentworth Warming House Design Review Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek stated that the Commission has been asked to comment on the current plans for the Wentworth warming house. He stated that preliminary plans have been submitted by the architect. He identified the boundary of the existing warming house along with the proposed new warming house boundary. He displayed the two options developed by the architect and reviewed the different elements, noting that the only difference between the two is related to the vestibule. He asked for feedback and input on the vestibule options. Commissioner Meyer asked why a vestibule is necessary. Mr. Ruzek replied that is required per the energy codes. Commissioner Meyer stated that originally it was planned that the outdoor restrooms would be unisex. She asked if a decision was since made to mark one as men’s and one as women’s. Mr. Ruzek noted that the men’s room has a urinal which makes for easier cleaning. He stated that the bathrooms could be unisex if desired. Chair Goldade stated that he would prefer unisex bathrooms with urinals in both. Commissioner Smith asked if the vestibule with the opening towards the seating in option two would push cold air towards those on the bench inside. She noted that in option one it seems that cold air would push towards the vending area and therefore she would suggest option one. Commissioner Meyer stated that she would prefer option two, as sometimes people crowd near vending and that could create congestion with people coming into that area too. Commissioner Klepperich asked if there is enough water pressure for flooding. Mr. Ruzek commented that the utilities are not shown on the drawings. He displayed the different elevation drawings, noting that the architect attempted to match the architecture of the pavilions at the park. He stated that sewer and water have not been brought down and will be brought from Wentworth Avenue. He stated that he has also spoken with Saint Paul Regional Water Services to determine if another hydrant could be installed near the building for flooding. 17 Commissioner Sherer referenced the Friendly Hills warming house, which is wood and aluminum, with a cost of about $150,000 and believed that this was meant to be of a higher quality. Mr. Ruzek replied that the warming houses at Marie and Friendly Hills were built for around $40,000 each and the desire for this building was to have indoor use and restrooms. He stated that with increased materials cost the estimated cost is about $250,000. He noted that a completely concrete and block building would run near $1,000,000. He confirmed that there was not a strong feeling on the vestibule options. Commissioner Meyer confirmed the consensus of the Commission that the outdoor restrooms should be unisex restrooms. Commissioner Sherer asked if that could then eliminate the need for the indoor restroom. Mr. Ruzek commented that could perhaps be an option but noted that additional measures would be needed to ensure that the exterior doors could be locked during the winter months. Commissioner Meyer clarified that Commissioner Sherer was suggesting making one restroom accessible from the interior and one from the exterior, eliminating the need for a third bathroom. She also recognized that would limit the amount of use people could have for the outdoor restroom in the warmer months if there is only one available. Mr. Ruzek commented that he does recall a conversation with the Police Chief, and it was stated that the restroom could not be accessible from the interior and exterior because of safety concerns. He provided the example of a child using the restroom and forgetting to lock one of the doors which provides the opportunity for someone else to come into the restroom. 8.c Friendly Hills Park Boundary Signage Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek identified the large pond in that area adjacent to residential properties. He stated that he has received concerns from residents related to clearing that is being done. He noted that upon inspection he did notice a number of private improvements within the park property. He stated that he is going to mail enforcement letters to the properties alerting homeowners to remove private improvements from the park property. He asked if the Commission would be supportive of installing park boundary signs, as almost all the properties have some type of improvement within the park property. He stated that similar signage was installed at another park. He hoped that the signage would avoid additional encroachments on the park property. Commissioner Smith asked the type of improvements. Mr. Ruzek commented that one property has a large brick fireplace, but most issues are related to vegetation removal to the shoreline of the pond. He noted that some properties also have fencing in the park property. Motion Klepperich/second Meyer to direct staff to install boundary signs as recommended by staff. Further discussion: Chair Goldade asked if new trees could be planted with the signs. Mr. Ruzek confirmed that staff could look at opportunities for tree planting. 18 AYES 4: NAYS 1 (Smith opposed) 9.Unfinished Business 9.a Dugout Recommendation Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence reviewed the previous dugout recommendation from the Commission. She stated that at the October meeting MHAA provided a list of recommended improvements, which listed a different priority for dugout improvements. She asked the Commission for additional input before she brings this forward to the City Council. She estimated the cost for dugout improvements to be $20,000 to $25,000 per park. It was clarified that the top three priorities of MHAA were Victoria Highlands, Valley Park, and Civic Center. Commissioner Sherer stated that the Commission previously recommended dugout improvements for seven parks which was narrowed down to three parks. He stated that Ivy Hills was considered because fastpitch softball uses that field but recognized that Mendakota has dugout improvements, and that field is heavily used by softball. He stated that after that meeting, he spoke with MHAA, and it was clarified that MHAA does not believe Ivy Hills would be a good use of funds as the field is only used for practice and not games and therefore Civic Center was recommended in place of Ivy Hills. Motion Meyer/second Klepperich to recommend dugout improvements for Victoria Highlands, Valley Park, and Civic Center. AYES 5: NAYS 0 9.b Draft Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence provided an overview of the draft Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan; including the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to the current state of parks and recreation in Mendota Heights. She then reviewed the guiding principles, goals, actions items, and desired outcomes for the future of parks and recreation in Mendota Heights. She also highlighted the key performance indicators. She noted that staff provided this presentation to the City Council and there was in-depth discussion. She stated that the initial feedback from the Council was that they would like more information on demographics, projections for the future, and for the CIP to be implemented in the document. She noted that staff will continue to refine the document with that direction and will plan to bring the document back in January. She noted that she will also attempt to schedule a joint worksession. She asked the Commission if there are any additional items that should be included or researched before the next update is provided in January. Chair Goldade commented that this was a great report and asked if there is specific information staff is looking for. Ms. Lawrence stated that her intent was to solicit initial feedback on anything the Commission feels may be missing or additional information the commission would like to see. Chair Goldade stated that he would want to ensure that the document can be used and will not just be something that sits on the shelf once completed. 19 Commissioner Sherer commented that he agrees that the CIP should be incorporated. He also agreed that the changes in demographic would be important, noting that there were changes from 2010 to 2020 and continues to change annually. Commissioner Meyer asked if the percentages were provided from the census. Ms. Lawrence noted that there were most likely estimates from the census and the entire census information has not yet been provided. She hoped to look more in-depth as they discuss how demographics may change and the related changes that would be needed. Commissioner Meyer referenced the desire to attract staff and asked if the City has considered ways to attract residents to apply for City positions. Ms. Lawrence acknowledged that there are not many Mendota Heights residents on City staff. She stated that the City Administrator has been promoting the vacant positions as much as possible to residents but recognized the difficulty in attracting applicants in the workforce today. She commented that 95 percent of the seasonal staff are residents. Chair Goldade thanked staff for the excellent work and looked forward to the continued review in January, along with the requested joint meeting with the Council. 9.c Winter Fest Update Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence stated that updated information for the event was included in the packet. She noted that the event will be titled “Mendota Heights Frozen Fun Fest”. She reviewed the planned event dates and related events. Chair Goldade advised of a contact he has that could assist with writing clues for the medallion hunt. Commissioner Klepperich asked if there has been a thought for having cross country skiing at the golf course. Ms. Lawrence replied that has not been considered. She noted that the clubhouse has been closed and winterized and there would be a lack of parking. 10.Staff Announcements Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence shared the following announcements: •There will a vacancy on the Commission as Chair Goldade will serve at his last meeting in January. She stated that interested candidates can apply and hopes to have the new member join the Commission for its February meeting. •Rink flooders are still needed. •Other events can be found on the City’s website 11.Student Representative Update Student Representative Hess commented that most of the youth sports activity has been focused on indoor/school basketball and outdoor hockey and believed that winter parks use will focus on rink activity. 12.Commission Comments and Park Updates 20 Commissioner Sherer •Parks are covered in snow and his children are looking forward to the rinks being flooded Commissioner Meyer •Echoed the comments of Commissioner Sherer •Thanked public works for their efforts clearing snow on the roads, sidewalks, and trails Commissioner Klepperich •Echoed the appreciation to public works staff for their snow clearing efforts Commissioner Smith •Echoed the thanks for snow removal noting that the trails look great •Looking forward to the rinks being flooded for use Chair Goldade •Valley View Heights Park is a small park but noticed that the basketball court was cleared •Thanked Sue Light and noted that he will pass on the information she provided about the Rogers Lake Association. Thanked the Association for the work they do to keep the lake and park a great amenity. Chair Goldade commented that he believes the job of the Commission is to be passionate about parks and recreation. He recognized that is different than the job of the Council, whose job is to look at the bigger picture. He hoped that the meeting tonight would be seen as something that makes the collaboration better and stronger rather than adversarial to the Council. He stated that he respects the job of the Council as it has more information and sees the bigger picture for the community and therefore respects the decisions they make. 13. Adjourn Motion Klepperich/Second Meyer to adjourn the meeting at 9:16 PM AYES 5: NAYS 0 Minutes drafted by: Amanda Staple TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. 21 DATE: January 11, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Par 3 Update Golf Course Equipment Acquisition At the January 4 City Council meeting the City Council approved the purchase of a replacement Aerator, Sand Pro, and Top Dresser for the golf course. •Sand Pro 2040Z: $14,789.85 (Trade in Amount: $500.00) = $14,289.85 from Par 3 Fund •Top Dresser (Workman/Pro Pass): $56,804.30 (Trade in Amount: $1,900) = $54,904.30 from Par 3 Fund •Aerator ProCore 648: $26,205.88 (Trade in Amount: $100) = $26,105.88 from General Fund Balance Financial Report A November financial report will be available at the meeting. Staff will review the current financial forecast of the Par 3 and answer any questions the commissioners may have. 22 7a. DATE: January 11, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Recreation Update Field and Facility Use Fees-2022 At the December 21, 2021 City Council meeting the City Council reviewed the Parks and Recreation Commission’s recommendation in regards to Field and Facility use fees for 2022 and the implementation of Dakota County Ordinance 110-Solid Waste Removal. The City Council approved the 2021 Field and Facility Use fees to be assessed in 2022 without implementing a fee for solid waste removal for 2022. The City will continue to conduct solid waste removal at tournaments. The City Council has asked staff to implement an educational program so that fees could be implemented in 2023 in regards to solid waste removal. Tour De Rec This school year youth and families are invited to join us on the first Thursday of every month at local spots in Mendota Heights and West St. Paul. Staff will set up activities and provide equipment for youth and families to enjoy. There will be games, sports, crafts, and more! This is a drop-in program -- no registration required. •February 3 (6:00pm-7:00pm)-Marie Park •March 3 (6:00pm-7:00pm)-Garlough Elementary Gymnasium •April 7 (6:00pm-7:00pm)-Mendakota •May 5 (6:00pm-7:00pm)-Mendota Elementary Gymnasium Hockey Camps The Cities of Mendota Heights and West Saint Paul will be offering youth hockey camps on Monday, January 17 and Monday, February 21. 2022 Summer Recreational Offerings Staff is in the process of finalizing the various recreational offerings for the 2022 season. A Summer 2022 Catalog will be provided at the February Parks and Recreation Commission meeting. Registration for Summer programs will open March 1. Blade with the Blue The City of Mendota Heights recreation department will be partnering with the police department to host, “Blade with the Blue” on Saturday, January 29. The event will take place at 23 7b. Friendly Hills Park and will be from 1:00-3:30pm. Our police officers are excited to spend time with youth in the community playing hockey. The event is free to the public. Honey Brunch The Cities of Mendota Heights, West Saint Paul and South Saint Paul have collaborated to offer the first ever “Honey Brunch”. The event will be held Saturday, February 12 and is open to all ages. Cupid’s Cuisine Brunch will be served to participants as well as activities and arts following brunch. The event will be held at the Thompson Park Activity Center. 24 DATE: January 11, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Park Improvement Update Recreational Light Usage at Marie/Friendly Hills The City Council reviewed the Parks and Recreation Commission recommendation in regards to recreational light usage at Marie and beginning the community engagement process to consider instituting a pilot program at Friendly Hills Park. The City Council approved continued usage of rink lights at Marie Park for evening pickleball and basketball play during the 2022 season. The lights will be on until 9:00pm daily beginning when the pickleball nets are installed (typically sometime in late March/early April). The lights will remain on nightly until the lights are no longer needed when natural light suffices for nighttime recreational use (on or around April 30 when sunset hits 8:15pm). The light program will commence on or around August 18 when natural light will not suffice and lights will be needed to play pickleball until 9:00pm. Staff sent a notice to residences within 500 feet of the Friendly Hills Park boundary to engage residents in regards to the consideration of instituting a pilot program at Friendly Hills Park for nighttime pickleball play in 2022. At the February Parks and Recreation Commission meeting there will be time for residents interested in voicing their opinion on the trial program to address the Commission. Wentworth Park Warming House Update Staff brought forth renderings for the new Warming House at Wentworth Park. Architectural plans have been drafted and the City Council will be asked to review the plans and authorize the bidding of the project at their January 18 meeting. Dugout Quotes Staff is working to obtain quotes for dugout covers and necessary fence work to be conducted at Victoria Highlands, Valley Park, and Civic Center. Once quotes are obtained the project will be brought to the City Council for review. 25 7c. DATE: January 11, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Amendment to the Picnic Shelter Reservation Policy INTRODUCTION: Staff is recommending an amendment to the City’s Picnic Shelter Reservation Policy. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: The City has six parks with picnic shelters available for the public to rent. In 2021, the City permitted 81 picnic shelter reservations. On January 15, 2019 the City Council approved the Mendota Heights Picnic Shelter Reservation Policy. At the end of the 2021 season staff reviewed the Picnic Shelter Reservation Policy and have the following recommendations in regards to process improvement: •Increase the number of days a permit request needs to be submitted in advance of a desired date of the event from two to seven days •Clarify the application deadline for Picnic Shelter Reservations •Quantify the number of picnic tables each facility will provide per reservation The recommendation to increase the number of days required to submit a permit request in advance of a desired date is based on the timeframe needed for staff to process requests. Our Recreation Admin staff work closely with our Public Works Parks Maintenance Staff to ensure picnic shelters are clean and presentable to renters. In order to ensure proper staffing and adequate park tables are in place, staff would like a cushion to ensure this process is smooth. The existing policy neglects to clarify the application deadline for Picnic Shelter Reservations. By including the current practice of the March deadline, the process will be more equitable for those requesting permits. Recently, a common question staff receives from potential renters is in regards to the number of picnic tables provided at each site per reservation. By quantifying the number of picnic tables at each facility, the picnic shelter reservation process should be clearer. 26 8a. BUDGET IMPACT: None. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Parks and Recreation Commission approve the revised Mendota Heights Picnic Shelter Reservation Policy. ACTION REQUESTED: If the Parks and Recreation Commission concurs, it should, by motion, approve the amended Mendota Heights Picnic Shelter Reservation Policy, as attached. 27 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS PICNIC SHELTER RENTAL POLICY CONTACT: Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 651-452-1850 APPROVED: January 15, 2019 REVISED: January 18, 2022 28 8a1. Page 2 City of Mendota Heights Picnic Shelter Rental Policy A.Purpose The City of Mendota Heights, hereinafter referred to as the “City”, coordinates and issues permits for the use of picnic shelters owned by the City. The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines to promote orderly and effective use and enjoyment of City picnic shelters and parks. B.Picnic Shelter Use Permits Picnic shelter permits are issued following the City’s picnic shelter permit process. A permit is issued only after a request is made, all required documents and information is received, and the City has approved the request, either in-part or in its entirety. A request does not constitute an approval. Permit applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Requests may be submitted throughout the year and will be considered on a first come, first serve basis. Permit requests shall be submitted at least two seven (27) days in advance of the desired date of the event. Application forms will be made available at City Hall or on the City’s website The City reserves the right to deny, limit or revoke use permits based upon an applicant’s performance history including compliance with the terms and conditions of use, park shelter conditions after use, and unruly behavior of participants and guests. C.Application Deadline Permits will be issued throughout the year based on the following timeline: •Permit requests for use during the calendar year will be due the first business day in March on a first come, first serve basis for all interested parties. C.D. Terms and Conditions of Use •The permit holder is required to be on-site during the entire event including set-up and clean-up of the event. A copy of the issued permit must be retained during the entire time of the rental and shown upon request. •Picnic shelter reservations are for the picnic area only. Users that have a permit are allowed to use the permitted picnic shelter space, but public park areas including playgrounds, hard court surfaces, and grassy areas will remain open for use by the public and therefore cannot be reserved, roped off or otherwise restricted from use by the public. 29 Page 3 •Reasonable decorating of the shelter is allowed. Temporary objects, signs, banners and other materials must be removed from City property at the conclusion of the event. Users are not allowed to attach objects to trees, shrubs or park features. •The use of inflatable play equipment and similar items are prohibited in City parks. Water activities that can cause damage to the facility and/or grounds are not permitted. •All users of City park shelters and areas are expected to leave the area(s) in the same or better condition than which it was found. Users are expected to dispose of waste in proper trash and recycling receptacles. The City of Mendota Heights prides itself on being a clean and green community, and renters are asked to recycle as much of their waste as possible. D.E. Non-Use of Reserved Picnic Shelters When permits are issued, a specific picnic shelter is reserved for the user, to the exclus ion of others. Recognizing this exclusivity, users should only reserve the picnic shelter intended for use. Any user that has reserved a picnic shelter and subsequently determines that it cannot use it shall notify the City so that the shelter may be use d by another user or the general public. E.F. Fees The City may charge application and use fees in order to recover public costs to operate, maintain, repair, improve and administer the use of City picnic shelters. For each application submitted, an application fee shall be assessed. Picnic shelter use fees shall be approved by the City Council and included in the City’s Fee Schedule. Use fees are subject to change at the discretion of the City Council. All users who receive a permit for exclusive use of a picnic shelter must pay the appropriate fee per the City fee schedule. Payments for permits must be received in advance of the start of the reservation. Payments can be made by cash, check or credit/debit card. Additional fees may be charged based on the size of the group and the additional facilities requested such as a picnic tables. All picnic shelters will have at least four picnic tables available for use. F.G. Cancellation Policy The City attempts to be flexible in accommodating user groups, but ultimately, the health and safety of the user and the condition of a park and picnic shelter takes priority. This may require the closure of picnic shelters, denial of use of picnic shelter, and/or the assignment of an alternate site for use. Picnic shelter closures will be communicated to permit holders by the Recreation Program Coordinator. Permits cancelled by the City of Mendota Heights may be rescheduled as 30 Page 4 availability allows, or may be refunded in full. Permits cancelled due to non -adherence with the picnic shelter use policy, City Ordinances, or terms and conditions of use will not be refunded. If the user cancels the event due to inclement weather, the permit holder should contact the City to reschedule the event. There shall be no refunds for weather-related cancellations. However, the permit holder may request to reschedule the event during the same calendar year at no additional charge. Reservations which are cancelled more than seven (7) days in advance will receive a 100% refund. Reservations that are cancelled less than seven (7) days in advance will not be entitled to a refund. The application fee is non-refundable regardless of the date cancelled. G.H. City Contact All communication with the Recreation Program Coordinator must be made through the permit holder. This eliminates confusion and establishes direct, efficient communication. Users should report any damage, accidents, dangerous or unsafe conditions to: City of Mendota Heights- Recreation Program Coordinator Phone: 651-255-1354 or 651-452-1850 (Monday – Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm) After Hours Phone: 651-302-3301 Email: meredithl@mendota-heights.com mlawrence@mendotaheightsmn.gov 31 DATE: January 11, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Draft Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan Review INTRODUCTION: Chair Goldade and Vice Chair Klepperich have asked the Parks and Recreation Commission to once again review and discuss the Draft Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan that staff has written based on Strategic Planning Sessions. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: This past June, the City Council, along with the Parks and Recreation Commission and key staff, worked with the City’s consultant, Hue Life, to discuss the City’s goals in relation to Parks and Recreation. In addition, staff solicited community feedback surrounding Parks and Recreation from residents through a POLCO survey and listening sessions. Staff compiled the results from the various stakeholder engagement sessions into a working document provided in the packet. The resulting Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan outlines guiding principles, goals, action items, and desired outcomes, and serves as the framework for staff to plan and execute the vision of the Parks and Recreation Commission and City Council. As reflected in the supplemental documents, the action items are in varying stages of being addressed. In the future, staff will report monthly to the Parks and Recreation Commission on the progress being made on the identified strategic priorities. RECOMMENDATION: Chair Goldade and Vice Chair Klepperich would like to discuss the following points in regards to pages 8-15 in the City of Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan titled, “Future of Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation”: •What is missing? •What excites you most? Staff will refine the document by adding further population projections, updated CIP and Asset Management Documents, and other items requested by the Commission. In February the Parks 32 9a. and Recreation Commission and City Council will meet to further discuss the priorities, budget, and next steps in regards to the plan. 33 City of Mendota Heights Parks & Recreation STRATEGIC PLAN Draft Presentation 34 9a1. City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 1 INTRODUCTION/CONTEXT The City of Mendota Heights offers a robust system of recreational and open space options, which includes regional trails, lakeside parks, scenic bluffs, and nature preserves. The City’s facilities provide unique features that shape the character of Mendota Heights beyond the ordinary. The City’s parks provide a visual identity to the City, in addition to contributing to the quality of life for those who recreate in the community. Mendota Heights has over 771 acres of parks and open spaces, which include both active and passive recreation areas, along with other state and private parks. The City’s 33 miles of trails offer an excellent opportunity for exercise and relaxation. Opportunities for walking, bicycling, bird watching, cross country skiing, golfing and nature hiking are sprinkled throughout Mendota Heights. The City’s parks are supplemented by three golf courses: Mendakota Country Club, Somerset Country Club, and the Mendota Heights Par 3 Municipal Course. These contribute to open space views and recreational opportunities for residents. Throughout the last fifteen years the city has made improvements and developed new parks. It has also made efforts to maintain existing open space such as purchasing the 17-acre Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course. The City recently joined in partnership with other public entities and purchased the 25.5 acre Pilot Knob area, which will be retained as open space. Protection of the Pilot Knob area as an important Dakota site has been identified as a critical issue for many residents within the City. Oheyawahe/Pilot Knob was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017. A task force has been formed to pursue short and long-term goals for the preservation of and improvements to Historic Pilot Knob. The City has 17 public parks throughout the community, including Historic Pilot Knob. These parks contain over 295 acres of land area. In the 1990’s, a majority of the most recent park upgrades were made due to a voter approved parks focused referendum. While the need and interest for recreational opportunities has increased over the years, the improvement of park equipment and infrastructure has not occurred due to a poor funding and proactive planning. Over the last thirty years the way residents recreate has also changed. Recreational interests have evolved to include new opportunities such as skateboarding, pickleball and cricket. The City Council, Parks and Recreation Commission, and staff must evaluate the current parks infrastructure and recreation programming along with the proposed recreational and park improvements from a 21st century lens. 35 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 2 STRATEGIC PLAN PURPOSE/PROCESS To start the discussion regarding the future of Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation, Parks and Recreation Commissioners and City Councilmembers along with key staff underwent strategic planning sessions to discuss the current conditions and desired future of the park system and programming. This process better articulated the needs and wants of residents and how that is different from the facilities and programs that are currently offered within the City. This process has included information from following areas: •Inventory of Existing Park Amenities •National Metric Comparison Research to Current Facilities •Community Engagement Results to Determine Needs •Discussions Surrounding Future Goals of Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation •Policy Direction and Implementation Planning This strategic plan serves as a road map to how and where park and recreational improvements should be developed in both the immediate future and in the long-term. Mendota Heights Vision Statement: Mendota Heights will be recognized as a high quality, family- oriented residential community, with a spacious natural feel and the amenities of a city. Mendota Height Mission Statement: Our mission is to preserve and enhance the quality of life in Mendota Heights by providing quality public safety, infrastructure, and planning for orderly and sustainable growth. 36 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 3 CURRENT STATE OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS AND RECREATION STRENGTHS 1.Stable Tax Base The City of Mendota Heights is comprised of a strong tax base consisting of formidable income and economic activity within the City. Mendota Heights features high median property values and incomes, which provide strong financial support for City goals, initiatives and projects. The City also boasts a AAA bond rating, which reflects the City’s financial strength and stability. 2.City Good Will The City has established strong relationships with residents which has resulted in trust and respect between elected and appointed officials, staff, and the community. By properly engaging stakeholders, the City has established connections to discuss wants/needs and next steps moving forward. Relationships with residents are imperative to ensure a successful Park and Recreation operation into the future. 3.Sustained Commitment to Excellence of Services The City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission holds staff to a high standard in regards to programming, park planning, community building and engagement. Staff works to implement best practices in their work and deliver process improvement and policy changes to best serve the residents of Mendota Heights. 4.Existing Partnerships The City of Mendota Heights values its positive working relationships with the Cities of West Saint Paul, South Saint Paul, Inver Grove Heights, and ISD 197. These existing partnerships enable large scale programs and events that would be difficult to host singularly. By working together each city’s budget is stretched further and human capital is shared. Discussions regarding current and future partnership opportunities are ongoing and staff is working to form partnerships with other local organizations for optimized opportunities for our residents. 5.Educated and Motivated Citizens The residents of Mendota Heights care about their community and are passionate about their park system. Garnering community engagement is important as residents and stakeholders ask educated and intellectual questions surrounding programming and park planning. The Mendota Heights community wants to be involved in providing high quality programming and facilities within the City. 37 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 4 WEAKNESSES 1.Lack of Planning Around Funding Many of the City’s amenities and facilities within the Park System have not been replaced or updated since a Park referendum in the late 1980’s. Adequate funding of the upkeep and maintenance of exiting infrastructure has not been budgeted for or properly planned. The Special Parks Fund has restrictions for use and with a lack of land for development, future funding from this revenue source will not be reliable. 2.Insufficient Planning Proactive park improvement project planning has not been a priority. A rolling Capital Improvement Plan has not been regularly reviewed in order to properly schedule projects and ensure funding is available. Moving forward, dedicated staff to supervise this process as well as regular review of the process/strategic plan is necessary to ensure proactive forethought is developed. 3.Competing Interests The Mendota Heights community consists of passionate individuals surrounding recreational opportunities. This results in differing priorities for park improvement projects and programming. Prioritizing park project requests, field and facility usage, and the utilization of funding available has been challenging. 4.Lack of Indoor Programming Space The City lacks indoor gathering space to hold differing and unique programming opportunities. Currently, all indoor programs are conducted in partnership with the City of West Saint Paul. The popularity of partnering programming will limit Mendota Heights participation in indoor events. 5.Lack of Future Park Land The City of Mendota Heights is 95% built out, resulting in a lack of new recreational park land for development. The redesigning of existing park spaces will be crucial in providing modern and contemporary park amenities. With a lack of land, properly prioritizing projects will be imperative to providing an equitable park system. 6.Lack of Staff Resources The current Mendota Heights organizational structure provides one dedicated administrative employee working on parks planning and recreational program organization. With the current staffing model, being proactive on park projects and increasing recreational offerings is difficult to achieve. 38 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 5 OPPORTUNITIES 1.Generational Turnover The demographics of Mendota Heights have changed since the 1989 parks referendum. The median age of Mendota Heights residents is 51.2 years, which is considerably higher than surrounding cities. Median Age of Surrounding Cities: •Eagan: 38.2 years •West Saint Paul: 37.3 years •South Saint Paul: 35.1 years •Inver Grove Heights: 39.7 years •Apple Valley: 38.2 years •Saint Paul: 33 years •Lakeville: 36.6 years •Farmington: 33.7 years •Burnsville: 36.8 years Mendota Heights’ current population by age category are as follows: •Under 5 Years Old: 5.03% •5-17 Years Old: 14.5% •18-24 Years Old: 4.48% •25-34 Years Old: 8.11% •35-44 Years Old: 9.15% •45-54 Years Old: 13% •55-64 Years Old: 16.96% •65-74 Years Old: 14.5% •75 Years Old+: 10.6% With these changing demographics the City must offer programs and provide facilities that enable adults and senior citizens to be active. Equity within a park system is imperative to ensure all residents have equal opportunities to recreate near their home. Engaging the senior population will be important in order to better understand our community’s wants and needs. 2.Public Interest in Parks With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the Mendota Heights park system saw record setting usage. Parks became one of the only places people could visit when restaurants, stores, and entertainment venues were forced to close. Our park system was recognized as an essential resource for the physical and mental health of residents. This realization sparked an interest from residents to determine how parks could be improved and better utilized moving forward. 39 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 6 3.Potential Funding Sources With the recent increase in park usage due to COVID-19, Mendota Heights has been approached by residents and groups wanting to financially provide support for ongoing improvements in the parks. Finding proper channels and processes to receive these donations will be important to successfully upgrading the park system. Opportunities regarding grants are also available and need to be applied to receive funding. 4.Underutilized Volunteers The City has many talented and passionate residents who want to give back to their community. Currently the City of Mendota Heights lacks a formalized volunteer program. The need for a formal volunteer program to solicit volunteers, ensure proper backgrounding is completed, provide work direction, and track hours in order to provide recognition is necessary. 5.Bourn Lane Site The City has one remaining parcel of land in the Southwest portion of the City that the City Council will need to advise staff in the future of how they want that land utilized. This 14.75 acre parcel is being considered for park usage, in addition to being considered for other uses within the City. 6.Additional Resources and Options With an additional Parks and Recreation staff planned in FY2022, Mendota Heights can expand opportunities in regards to programming and infrastructure improvements. Discussion and decisions regarding funding allocation in future years will also be important to determine the need for better communication, extensive maintenance, and other public services to the community. 7.Regional Partnerships Mendota Heights has many local businesses, non-profits, and neighboring governmental organizations that provide opportunities for joint programming and partnership on facilities. Each neighboring jurisdiction providing unique amenities enable the community many recreational options in close proximity. Duplication of unique amenities is not necessary if proper planning is developed. 40 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 7 THREATS 1.Neighboring Cities Neighboring cities to Mendota Heights currently have more facilities and better indoor space for programming and rentals. The reality is larger cities typically have larger budgets, which results in larger facilities. As a smaller City this is something that will need to be understood and accepted by the community. 2.Increasing Costs With the reality of the economy, the cost of services, goods, and equipment is going to continue to rise. This is something that will need to be considered when discussing new capital projects, as well as budgeting the cost to maintain existing infrastructure. 41 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 8 FUTURE OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS AND RECREATION In the next three years the following will be accomplished based on the City Council, Parks and Recreation Commission, and staff. Guiding Principles explain the vision of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation and provide the basis for goals, actions, and outcomes. Goals provide desired results that are planned and committed to. Guiding Principle: Sustained Funding for Parks and Recreation Goal: Secure Sustainable Funding for Projects Action Items: Staff will provide the City Council with funding options to ensure there is financing for future park improvements and recreational programming for future generations. Policy recommendations regarding field and facility naming rights for donations as well as identifying corporate partners will be provided to the City Council. A relationship with the Mendota Heights Foundation will be formed to enable private funding opportunities for residents who want to financially support park and recreation opportunities. Staff will research grant opportunities available for projects included in the City’s Capital Improvement Plan and will work with the City Council to submit applications. The City Council will discuss the conversion of the Par 3 bond payments into a park improvement levy starting in 2023. A referendum will be researched and information provided to the City Council in order for an educated decision to be made on next steps moving forward. Outcome: Long term Parks and Recreation dedicated finances will be identified and will be utilized to fund projects under the parks Capital Improvement Plan. The Capital Improvement Plan will be well developed to ensure projects are following the recommended useful life timeframe outlined in the Asset Management Plan, while ensuring all parks have adequate funding to 42 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 9 ensure equity within the City. The City will have developed and maintained strong public/private partnerships within the Community to provide optimal recreational opportunities to our residents at a reasonable taxing rate. Guiding Principle: A Leading Community Agency Goal: Mendota Heights is a Model Organization Action Items: Staff will provide the City Council with recommended policy changes in regards to the allocation of fields and facilities reservations, special events, donations, etc. Staff will form a successful volunteer program that helps to provide more human capital within community initiatives. Staff will work with the City Council to follow the organizational recommendations and standards of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Commission of Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) program in order to provide continued high-level services to the residents of Mendota Heights Mendota Heights staff will chair a group consisting of neighboring cities to discuss projects to ensure duplication does not occur, opportunities for partnerships on programming and facilities, and to provide a basis for policy recommendations. City staff will submit initiatives to be considered for the Minnesota Recreation Park Association (MRPA) awards of excellence, which is awarded to Cities that have outstanding achievements in the following categories: administrative or management strategies, marketing and communications, park and facility projects, programming and events, sponsorships and partnerships, and volunteer initiatives. Outcome: City Staff will work closely with the City Council to make strategic decisions that ensure the City is a recognized leader throughout the industry on best practices. This will include being innovative and creative in regards to constructing new amenities, implementing new and emerging trends nationwide, and developing policies to ensure equitable practices. Mendota Heights will be a recognized leader in the Park and Recreation field in Minnesota. 43 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 10 Guiding Principle: Greater Connection to the Natural Environment Goal: Manage Park Natural Resources Action Items: A Natural Resource Commission will be established to provide the City Council with recommendations on sustainability, environmental stewardship, and preserving natural habitats. Recommendations will be made on policies and initiatives that enhance and preserve the environment and natural resources within the community. Staff will determine locations that grass areas can be converted to no-mow areas to provide more native spaces within the park system and community as a whole. Joint meetings between the Parks and Recreation Commission and Natural Resource Commission will provide opportunities for the two advisory commissions to ensure they are working together for the betterment of Mendota Heights parks. Opportunities for nature-based recreation and nature play areas will be researched. Outcome: Through partnership with the Natural Resource Commission and Natural Resource staff our parks will provide a clean and safe space with natural areas. Passive recreation areas will be reviewed and prioritized for refurbishment to ensure residents have easy access to nature play locations and programming. *A Natural Resource Management plan is being written. Many natural resource initiatives within parks will be included in the Natural Resource Management Plan. Those policies and practices were not included in this plan to reduce duplication and to hone in on priorities. * * The City Council will continue to work with the Historic Pilot Knob Task Force to protect and preserve the natural space and sacred history the space provides. Historic Pilot Knob Task Force initiatives were not included in this plan, as their own future planning is developed in a separate document.* 44 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 11 Guiding Principle: A Safe, Connected, Walkable and Bikeable Community Goal: Improve Trail Connectivity Action Items: A bike and pedestrian plan will be completed to determine gaps within our trail system. Staff will work with the City Council to address these gap locations and provide plans for improvement. Staff will work with the City Council to rehabilitate existing low-quality trails to improve connectivity. Staff will continue to advocate for our residents by encouraging our partners to add sidewalks on state and county roads. Outcome: With renovated trails residents will be encouraged to walk to parks, shopping areas, and other local destinations. Residents within Mendota Heights will have the ability to safely bike and walk within the community. This work will proactively provide better neighborhood connectivity to bring the community together for social interaction and morale building. The overall safety of Mendota Heights residents will be greatly improved by this initiative. 45 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 12 Guiding Principle: Vibrant and Diverse Community Programming Goal: Expanded Programming Action Items: Staff will provide the City Council with a yearly calendar of programming ideas during budget season to determine the necessary costs needed for execution. Staff will increase the amount of community events. Outcome: The City will organize programming for residents that provide opportunities for all residents regardless of age, race, ethnicity, income and skills to participate. New, innovative program offerings will be provided in addition to the regular offerings currently provided. Staff will work to collaborate as much as possible with neighboring cities in order to minimize costs and staff needs. Guiding Principle: Recreational Facilities for All Ages Goal: Prioritize Project and Initiatives Action Items: A rolling Capital Improvement Plan will be reviewed bi-annually and updated by staff, the Parks and Recreation Commission and City Council. This list will be formed by the Asset Management Plan in relation to useful life, community needs based on resident engagement, and national trend research and comparisons. If directed by the City Council, staff will explore the utilization of the Bourn Lane site for recreational use in the form of a Master Plan/Concept Plan to determine if the proposed recreational space is the correct use for the community. The City will look for opportunities to form local partnerships that ensure our community is involved in and has access to regional facilities. Staff will regularly compare our park amenities to the national park delivery standards for cities our size. 46 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 13 Engagement with the residents, stakeholders and user groups will be conducted to get feedback on features, amenities, and layouts desired in new facilities. Outcome: The City will have a roadmap for the next five years on plans to properly provide safe and equitable recreational facilities for residents. With a defined process for reviewing capital improvement project requests, astute financial planning will work hand in hand with our Capital Improvement Plan and Asset Management Plan to ensure an organized process moving forward. Guiding Principle: Effective Two-Way Communication with an Informed Community Goal: Know the Community Action Items: Staff will continue to find creative ways to provide the community with information surrounding Parks and Recreation. A survey will be conducted to determine what are the best forms of communication for our community. In collaboration with other city departments (Police and Fire) our staff will be present in the community and form relationships to better understand the wants and needs of our residents. Listening sessions will be conducted regularly with groups of the community by the Parks and Recreation Commission. A new website will be completed and launched with better Parks and Recreation information easily accessible to residents. Outcome: By better understanding our community, decisions surrounding park improvement projects and programming will be made to best serve the Mendota Heights community. Information will be more readily available to residents and new information and updates will be better communicated to reach as many residents as possible within reason. 47 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 14 Guiding Principle: Human Capital Goal: Attract and Retain Qualified Employees and Volunteers Action Items: Add a Parks and Recreation Manager to the City’s organizational structure to manage park improvement projects and planning and lead golf course operations in collaboration with the Recreation Program Coordinator (1 FTE) and an Office Support Assistant (.5 FTE). Establish a City volunteer program where volunteers can help on projects and at special events. A formal policy for volunteering will be written and presented to the City Council. Bring recommended updates to the seasonal pay matrix to recruit and retain qualified staff for programming, park maintenance, and Par 3 operations. Provide training and education for park and recreation employees to ensure a qualified and engaged team of employees is developed. A yearly review of staffing will be needed to determine if adequate resources are available to implement the priorities of the strategic plan by the City Council. Outcome: By properly utilizing volunteers and empowering staff to think outside past practices, the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Department will consist of high-quality employees dedicated to serving the residents of Mendota Heights and surrounding communities. 48 City of Mendota Heights · Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan | 15 KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS Our Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) are a set ofLe quantifiable measurements that will be used to determine the Park and Recreation staff’s achievement of the City Council approved Strategic Plan. These KPI’s will be tracked throughout the year and provided in the annual report. Quarterly updates will be provided to the City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission to ensure organized execution. Each year these will be compared to previous years to determine resources and direction needed from the City Council for the upcoming year. 1.Number of Recreation Programming Participants 2.Number of Special Events Planned and Held 3.Amount of No Mow Areas Utilized in Parks 4.Number of Volunteers Processed and Approved to Volunteer 5.Number of Volunteer Hours Utilized 6.Hours of Fields, Facilities and Picnic Shelters Allocated 7.Percentage of Capital Projects Completed on Time 8.Number of Partnership Projects Initiated 9.Number of Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) Standards Completed 10.Number of Listening Sessions Completed APPENDIX 2040 Comprehensive Plan Asset Management Plan Hue Life Strategic Planning Goals Documentation Hue Life Community Engagement Documentation Current Planning Calendar 49 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARK ASSET MANAGEMENT PLAN 50 9a2. PURPOSE The Park Asset Management Plan is a planning tool that forecasts the city’s needs over a five-year rolling period based on city adopted long-range plans, goals, and policies. This plan includes detailed descriptions of park maintenance and improvement projects the city anticipates during the identified five-year period. The plan is updated annually to ensure consistency and reflect changing demands and financial resources. The goal of this plan is to: •Provide a balanced program for park improvements given anticipated funding revenues over a five-year planning period •Enable the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission and the City Council the ability to evaluate the needs of the entire city •Anticipate needed park improvements in advance, rather than being overlooked until critically needed •Provide a plan for park improvements that can be used in preparing the budget for the coming year •Support and provide guidance for the City’s Capital Improvement Project document for future planning BACKGROUND The City of Mendota Heights enjoys an extensive park system. In 1989, a voter approved park referendum was passed, which funded upgrading eight existing neighborhood parks, constructing five new parks, and constructing 7.8 miles of trails. In addition to city parks, the City purchased the 17-acre Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course by a separate referendum in 2007. FUNDING Each year included in the city budget is a Parks Budget utilized for funding ongoing park maintenance that will not be addressed in this plan. Maintenance projects that fall into this category include water fountain work, toilet and sink replacement, foul ball post painting and replacement, retaining wall work, parking lot lighting replacements and maintenance, picnic table maintenance and replacement, softball and baseball plate/base replacements, soccer and lacrosse goal replacement, tennis sport tile replacements, playground surfacing replacement, swing and playground maintenance, volleyball sand material replacement, volleyball net/basketball hoop replacement, bleacher repair and replacement, bridge repair, irrigation work, pitching mound maintenance, safety lighting replacement on trails, tennis net replacement, etc. Projects less than $2,500 are not included in this document and are considered routine maintenance included in the Parks Budget. Included in this plan is information regarding enhancements and maintenance projects for the next five years. Park dedication fees are collected and transferred into the City’s Special Parks Fund. The Special Parks Fund has restrictions and can only be utilized when park projects are providing an enhancement or new benefit to the community based on the improvement conducted. Maintenance projects which 51 include reconstruction, resurfacing, or remodeling of existing park infrastructure is not eligible for Special Parks Fund and must be included in the city’s yearly levy. City staff classifies parks based on the following criteria: Park Classification System Park Type Description Typical Uses Service Area Mini-Park Pocket park that main goal is to provide a place for community socialization. Seating area, benches, green space, etc. ¼-1/2 Mile Radius Neighborhood Park Provide informal park space and amenities for neighborhood-based recreational activities. Playground, basketball court, open green space, picnic area, baseball field, volleyball court, etc. 1-2 Mile Radius Community Park Larger park with more structured recreational opportunities and draws members from throughout the City. Active play facilities including baseball complexes, soccer complexes, large playgrounds, large gathering spaces, etc. Citywide Regional Park Large multi-use park that draws users city-wide and throughout the Twin Cities. Large park space consisting of tournament eligible facilities, recreation centers, gathering spaces for large events, etc. Regional Natural Area Parks established to conserve open space or heritage assets. Low-impact passive areas that include green space, environmental education opportunities, etc. N/A (Not Demand Driven) 52 PARK NAME: CIVIC CENTER (MERTENSOTTO FIELD) LOCATION: 1101 Victoria Curve SIZE: 17.6 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Parking Lot (Shared with City Hall) Poor condition Irrigation System Baseball Field-250 Feet Professional infield maintenance needed Backstop w/safety net Pitching Mound Reconstruction maintenance completed by staff in 2021 Fencing Foul baseline fencing in poor condition Bench Seating (no dugouts) Batting Cages with Electric (2) Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Parking Lot Reconstruction (Shared Expense w/ City Hall) $50,000 Foul Ball Fencing Replacement $15,000 Backstop safety net & batting cage net replacement Infield Maintenance-Fix Lips $5,000 Expense Total: $5,000 $65,000 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Field Lighting (est. $180,000) Dugout covers $20,000 Expense Total: $20,000 Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $5,000 $65,000 Special Parks Fund $20,000 Grants Donations Other Total: $5,000 $85,000 53 PARK NAME: DOG PARK LOCATION: 1360 Acacia Blvd SIZE: 8.2 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Signage (Rules/Entry Sign) Add Formal Park Sign Fence (Separate Large/Small Dog Areas) Small Dog Fence Installed in 2020 Sun Shelter Table Installed in 2020 *Staff is working on a new entry identification sign/rules* *Staff is working to remove brush and provide better visibility for safety* Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Expense Total: Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Water source Security lighting Additional tables with shade $7,500 Expense Total: $7,500 Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) Special Parks Fund $7,500 Grants Donations Other Total: $7,500 54 PARK NAME: FRIENDLY HILLS LOCATION: 2360 Pueblo Lane SIZE: 15.5 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Re-line Basketball Court $600 Resurface Tennis Courts $25,000 Playground Replacement (2026) Parking Lot Reconstruction Expense Total: $600 $25,000 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Install Pickleball Courts in Hockey Rink $24,000 Add Adjustable Basketball Hoop $2,500 Add Dugouts (estimate $20,000) Tennis Court Replacement Expense Total: $24,000 $2,500 Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $600 $27,500 Special Parks Fund $24,000 Grants Donations Other Total: $24,600 $27,500 ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage Parking Lot (North, South) Fair condition Paved Walking Trails Bike Rack (2) Playground Partial Remodel in 2009, swings in need of replacement Picnic Shelters (2) Softball Field-220/250/225 (No Outfield Fence) Backstop Replaced in 2020 Bench Seating (no dugouts) Fencing Tennis Court (2) Asphalt surface replaced in 2009, in need of resurfacing Basketball Court (Half Court, Concrete) Re-lining completed in 2021 Hockey Rink (192’x80’) Asphalt Surface Hockey Rink Lighting Replaced in 2017 Hockey Rink Boards Warming House Replaced in 2017 55 PARK NAME: FRIENDLY MARSH LOCATION: 2191 Apache Street SIZE: 34.5 Acres DESCRIPTION: Natural Area Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Paved Walking Trails Fair Condition Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Expense Total: Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Potential Site for Additional Park Use Expense Total: Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) Special Parks Fund Grants Donations Other Total: 56 PARK NAME: HAGSTROM KING LOCATION: 555 Mendota Heights Road SIZE: 9.6 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage Parking Lot Small for size and use of park Paved Walking Trails Good Condition Map Kiosk Playground Area Partial Remodel in 2019, Rest Original 2003 Baseball Field-240 Feet Fencing Outfield Fence Backstop Pitching Mound Reconstruction maintenance completed by staff in 2021 Dugout Covers Added in 2020 Bench Seating Not good spectator seating Basketball Court (Full Court, Concrete) Expanded in 2020 Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Expense Total: Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Expense Total: Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) Special Parks Fund Grants Donations Other Total: 57 PARK NAME: IVY HILLS LOCATION: 645 Butler Ave SIZE: 9.1 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage Parking Lot Paved Walking Trail Pond Trail Retaining Wall Bike Rack Playground Equipment Replaced in 2007, Swings Not Replaced Softball Field-180/240/180 Feet (No Fence) Backstop Fair condition Bench Seating (no dugouts) Tennis Courts (Sport Tiles)-2 Installed in 2015 Basketball Court (Half Court, Concrete) Relined in 2021 Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Playground Replacement $140,000 Backstop Replacement $27,000 Re-line Basketball Court $600 Tennis Court Replacement Expense Total: $600 $140,000 $27,000 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Foul Ball Line/Outfield Fencing $25,000 Dugout Covers $20,000 Extend Basketball Court (Full Court) $17,500 Adjustable Basketball Hoops $5,000 Expense Total: $45,000 $22,500 Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $600 $25,000 $140,000 $32,000 Special Parks Fund $20,000 $17,500 Grants Donations Other Total: $600 $45,000 $140,000 $49,500 58 PARK NAME: KENSINGTON LOCATION: North-640 Mendota Heights Road, South-2627 Concord Way SIZE: 14.5 Acres DESCRIPTION: Community Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage Parking Lot Paved Walking Trails/Concrete Sidewalk Retaining Wall Bike Rack Irrigation Playground Last replaced in 2011, Swing not replaced Picnic Shelters (2) Running Water Bathrooms (2) Water Fountains Concessions Stand Indoor Storage Closet Soccer Fields (2)-330x230’ and 360’x234’ Fencing Fence Facing South of Soccer Fields in Fair Condition Bleachers Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 South Facing Fence Replacement $120,000 Playground Replacement (2028) Expense Total: $120,000 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Expense Total: Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $120,000 Special Parks Fund Grants Donations Other Total: $120,000 59 PARK NAME: MARIE LOCATION: 1780 Lilac Lane SIZE: 6.6 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage Parking Lot Bike Rack Playground Replacement in 2021 Softball Field-180/210/200 feet-Not Outfield/Foul Ball Fence Backstop Good Tennis Courts (2) Asphalt Replaced in 2019, including fence Tennis Backboard Basketball (Full Court, Concrete) w/adjustable hoops Addition of Full Court in 2019 Hockey Rink (200x84’) Asphalt Surface Hockey Rink Lined with Pickleball Courts (4) Lines added in 2019 Hockey Boards Hockey Lights Replaced in 2017 Warming House Replaced in 2015 Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Add Two Additional Pickleball Courts to Rink $1,200 Backstop Replacement Expense Total: $1,200 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Expense Total: Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) Special Parks Fund $1,200 Grants Donations Other Total: $1,200 60 PARK NAME: MARKET SQUARE LOCATION: Village of Mendota Heights SIZE: .24 Acres DESCRIPTION: Mini Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Neighborhood Commons (Grass/Concrete Area) Fountain Paved Walking Trails Natural Area Picnic Tables/Seating Bike Racks Shrubs Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Expense Total: Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Concert venue Expense Total: Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) Special Parks Fund Grants Donations Other Total: 61 PARK NAME: MENDAKOTA LOCATION: 2171 Dodd Road SIZE: 19.7 Acres DESCRIPTION: Community Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage Parking Lot Poor condition Paved Walking Trails Safety Lighting on Path Bike Racks Map Kiosk Irrigation Playground with Shade Structure Pour in Place Surfacing will need replacement Picnic Shelter with Electricity Running Water Bathrooms (2) Water Fountains Concessions Building and Viewing Deck 4 Softball Fields (290’/300’ with Fencing) Backstop w/safety net Fencing Foul baseline/Outfield/Soccer Fencing in poor condition Bench Seating (no dugouts) Batting Cages (2) with Electricity Youth Soccer Field (240’x120’) Basketball Court (Full Court, Asphalt) Resurfaced in 2016 Grass Volleyball Court Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Parking Lot Reconstruction $250,000 Fencing replacement/maintenance $50,000 Replacement of playground pour & play rubber surface Replacement of lighting on trails Infield Maintenance Work-Lip/Sod Work $18,000 Expense Total: $18,000 $50,000 $250,000 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Field Lights (estimate $790,000) Add Covered Dugouts $100,000 Adjustable basketball hoops $5,000 Garage space for Public Works use Additional bathrooms/bathroom improvements Additional parking Concession stand improvements Expense Total: $100,000 $5,000 62 PARK NAME: MENDAKOTA (continued) Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $18,000 $50,000 $250,000 $5,000 Special Parks Fund $100,000 Grants Donations Other Total: $18,000 $100,000 $50,000 $250,000 $5,000 63 PARK NAME: ROGERS LAKE LOCATION: 1000 Wagon Wheel Trail SIZE: 8.7 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage (Park) Rules Signage (Skate Park) Parking Lot (North and South) Fine condition Paved Walking Trails Fine condition Bike Rack Map Kiosk Playground Swings need replacement, mats in poor condition Picnic Shelter with Electricity In need of renovation Basketball Court (Half Court, Concrete) Relined in 2021 Sand Volleyball Court-Timber Border Skate Park-Tier 1 Asphalt base in poor condition, equipment at end of useful life Fishing Pier/Wood Rails DNR inspected, replacement in 5 years Canoe Racks (2) 1 New Rack installed in 2020 due to interest Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Skate Park Reconstruction $175,000 Fishing Pier Replacement $15,000 Playground Replacement $140,000 Basketball Court Relining $600 Expense Total: $600 $190,000 $155,000 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Picnic Shelter Renovations (estimate $50,000) Add Bathrooms (estimate $175,000) Adjustable Basketball Hoop $2,500 Additional Canoe Rack Additional Parking Expense Total: $2,500 Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $600 $190,000 $2,500 $155,000 Special Parks Fund Grants Donations Other Total: $600 $190,000 $2,500 $155,000 64 PARK NAME: SIBLEY PARK COMPLEX LOCATION: 1819 Delaware Ave SIZE: 10.8 Acres DESCRIPTION: School Property Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Paved Walking Trails Concession Building with Restrooms 2 Softball Fields (280’ and 300’) Baseball Field (330/380/330’) Batting Cage (2) Foul baseline fencing in poor condition Soccer Field (330’x195’) Park is maintained and scheduled by ISD 197. A maintenance and use agreement was formalized in 1990 which expires in 2030. Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Annual Maintenance Contribution $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 Expense Total: $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Expense Total: Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 Special Parks Fund Grants Donations Other Total: $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 $22,000 65 PARK NAME: TOT LOT LOCATION: 2191 Apache Street SIZE: .9 Acres DESCRIPTION: Natural Area Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Open Space Maintenance Costs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Expense Total: Projected Enhancement Costs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Potential Community Gardening Plot site (water source estimated $15,000) Expense Total: Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) Special Parks Fund Grants Donations Other Total: 66 PARK NAME: VALLEY LOCATION: 821 Marie Avenue SIZE: 93.5 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage Parking Lot Replaced in 2020 Paved Walking Trails Possible partnership with Dakota County for replacement Bike Rack Map Kiosk Playground Replaced in 2006 Picnic Shelter (no electricity) In need of renovation, add electricity Softball Field (175 feet) No Fence Backstop Tennis Court (2-Sport Tile Surface) Installed in 2012 Half Court Basketball (Asphalt) w/Adjustable Hoop Resurfaced in 2020 Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Playground Replacement $130,000 Basketball Hoop Replacement/Lining $1,850 Tennis Court Fencing Replacement Backstop Replacement Expense Total: $1,850 $130,000 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Picnic shelter renovation (estimate $50,000) Outfield/Foul Ball line Fence (estimate $15,000) Expense Total: Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $1,850 $130,000 Special Parks Fund Grants Donations Other Total: $1,850 $130,000 67 PARK NAME: VALLEY VIEW HEIGHTS LOCATION: 1056 Cullen Ave SIZE: 0.6 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage Installed in 2020 Paved Walking Trails Bike Rack Playground Replaced in 2006 (swing set not replaced) Basketball Court (Half Court, Asphalt) Relined in 2021 Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Playground Replacement $55,000 Re-line Basketball Court $600 Expense Total: $600 $55,000 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Adjustable Basketball Hoop $2,500 Expense Total: $2,500 Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $600 $55,000 $2,500 Special Parks Fund Grants Donations Other Total: $600 $55,000 $2,500 68 PARK NAME: VICTORIA HIGHLANDS LOCATION: 1700 Diane Road SIZE: 6.7 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage Parking Lot Paved Walking Trails Bike Rack Map Kiosk Playground Equipment with Shade Structure Partial replacement in 2009, swings need to be replaced Softball Field (270/285/270’)-no baseline fence Backstop Outfield Fence Bench Seating Basketball Court (Concrete, Half Court) Relined in 2021 Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Reline Basketball Court $600 Playground Replacement (2027) Expense Total: $600 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Adjustable Basketball Hoop $2,500 Expense Total: $2,500 Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $600 $2,500 Special Parks Fund Grants Donations Other Total: $600 $2,500 69 PARK NAME: WENTWORTH LOCATION: 739 Wentworth Ave SIZE: 10.4 Acres DESCRIPTION: Neighborhood Park Park Assets: ASSET FINDINGS Park Identification Signage Parking Lot (North/South) Poor condition Paved Walking Trails Poor condition Pond Bridge Kiosk Map Playground Equipment Partial replacement in 2019 Picnic Shelter (2) Softball Field (220/235/210’) No Outfield/Foul Ball Fence Backstop Tennis Courts (2) Asphalt Fence and courts poor condition Basketball Court (Half Court, Concrete) Relined in 2021 Hockey Rink (200’x94’) Grass Base Hockey Boards Hockey Lights Replaced in 2018 Warming House Replacement Anticipated 2022 Maintenance Needs: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Reline Basketball Court $600 Tennis Court Reconstruction $85,000 Pave Hockey Rink $100,000 Parking Lot Reconstruction/Trail Work $100,000 Warming House Replacement $250,000 Backstop Replacement Expense Total: $600 $535,000 Park Enhancements: ITEM 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Adjustable Basketball Hoop $2,500 Expense Total: $2,500 Funding for Projects: FUNDING SOURCE 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 General Levy (Annual) $600 $535,000 $2,500 Special Parks Fund Grants ($180,000) Donations Other Total: $92,000 $355,000 $2,500 70 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Chapter 4: Parks & Trails 71 9a3. This page is intentionally blank. 72 3 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update 4 PARKS AND TRAILS The City of Mendota Heights has a robust system of recreational and open space opportunities in the community, including regional trails, riverside and lakeside parks, scenic bluffs and a nature preserves. These facilities represent unique features in a park system that helps to shape the character of Mendota Heights beyond the ordinary. They offer a visual identity to the city, in addition to contributing to the quality of life for those who live and recreate in the community. Mendota Heights has over 771 acres of parks and open space, which includes city parks, both active and passive recreation areas, along with other state and private parks and open spaces. The 33 miles of city trails and bicycle facilities located adjacent to roadways or meandering through the bounty of open space in the community offer an excellent opportunity for exercise and relaxation. Opportunities for walking, bicycling, bird watching, cross country skiing, golfing and nature hiking are sprinkled throughout the community. The city’s parks are supplemented by three golf courses: Mendakota Golf Course, Somerset Golf Course, and the Mendota Heights Par 3 golf course that contribute to open space views and recreational opportunities for residents. 73 4 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update GOALS and POLICIES GOAL 1: Provide a park system that is safe, accessible, and equitable in its offerings to all of Mendota Heights’ residents, stakeholders and visitors. Policies 1.Create and maintain a park system that provides the optimum amount of active and passive open space for the enjoyment of all Mendota Heights residents. 2.Provide facilities and programs that allow people of varying ages and abilities to participate. 3.Build, maintain and retrofit park facilities and equipment to be safe for all users. 4.Plan and build safe connections for pedestrians and bicyclists within and between park facilities and major destinations in the community. 5.Strive to make all facilities and programs open and welcoming to people of all ages and diverse backgrounds. GOAL 2: Provide a park system that assures high quality facilities, buildings, grounds, trails, amenities, and natural settings. Policies 1.Keep the park system up-to-date in terms of facilities, activities and programs that are responsive to the community’s desires and needs. 2.Support the park system adequately through the facilities, activities and programs offered. 3.Provide bicycle amenities in parks and along trails. 4.Provide a sustainable funding stream and operate the park system in a fiscally sound manner, including taking advantage of available grants. 74 5 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Goal 3: Use the park system as a means to enhance and sustain the environment of each neighborhood and the city as a whole. Policies 1.Provide facilities, programs and opportunities in the park system that bring people together and create community. 2.Ensure that stormwater is managed in park facilities in a manner that protects and preserves water quality and the ecology of the watershed. 3.Strive to make all park facilities, equipment and construction projects and materials environmentally friendly and sustainable. Goal 4: Cooperate with Dakota County and surrounding communities in park and recreation facilities and programming. Policies 1.Support the Dakota County 2030 Greenway Corridors Plan and Vision. 2.Continue to cooperate with South St. Paul, West. St. Paul and other neighboring communities on park and recreation programs and facilities. 3.Encourage the preservation of open space by private property owners and the city. 4.Explore new opportunities and continue to work cooperatively with School District #197, St. Thomas, Visitation, Fort Snelling State Park, and other entities to provide maximum recreational opportunities and avoid duplication in programming and facilities. 5.Improve and expand safe bicycle and pedestrian connections to city parks and other community destinations. 75 6 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Previous Development Previous Comprehensive Plans and Park Plans have guided the city in the development of its park system. As development has occurred, parkland has been dedicated to provide residents with recreational opportunities. Since the adoption of the 1979 Comprehensive Plan, the city has made improvements to many parks and has developed the following new parks: Copperfield Ponds, Hagstrom-King, Kensington, Mendakota, Sibley, Valley View Heights, and Victoria Highlands. The location of these new parks closely resembles Plan recommendations and reflects the city’s commitment to providing park services to all residents as opportunities arise. Not only has the city made improvements and developed new parks, it has also made efforts to maintain and protect existing open space such as purchasing the 17-acre Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course. The city also joined with other public entities and purchased the 25.5-acre Pilot Knob area, which will be retained as open space. Protection of the Pilot Knob area as an important Dakota site has been identified as a critical issue for many residents in the city. O ȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017. Existing City Park Facilities and Types Mendota Heights currently has 756.7 acres of lands dedicated to city parks, golf courses, and open space. The city also features part of the Fort Snelling State Park within their boundaries, totaling an additional 849 acres. The city has 17 public parks throughout the community, including Historic Pilot Knob. These parks contain over 295 acres of land area. A brief discussion of the three types of parks that typically comprise a local park system is provided below. The descriptions and standards serve as a guide to the city with respect to park typologies and programming. Other factors, such as proximity to regional or county parks, financing, or major trends in recreation, will also influence the evolution of the city’s park system. Regional and State parks are discussed later in this chapter. 76 7 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update 1) Neighborhood Park Neighborhood parks are the foundation of the park system and serve as the recreational and social focus of the neighborhood. They accommodate a wide variety of age and user groups, both children and adults. They create a sense of place by bringing together the unique character of the site and the neighborhood. Mendota Heights should seek to achieve a balance between active and passive neighborhood parks. Neighborhood parks range from 5 to 30 acres and serve a ½-mile area. Communities often will operate a joint neighborhood park with the school district and elementary schools. The city’s neighborhood parks include Friendly Hills, Hagstrom-King, Ivy Hills, Marie, Valley View Heights, Victoria Highland, and Wentworth. 2) Community Park Community parks are designed to meet the recreational needs of several neighborhoods or larger segments of the community. They are intended for ball fields, larger athletic facilities, and community gatherings. They can also be designed to preserve unique landscapes and open spaces. They serve a ½-mile to five mile radius. The city’s community parks include Kensington, Valley, Roger’s Lake, Mendakota, and Sibley Athletic Complex. The city also provides an off-leash dog park only, located off Acacia Blvd., south of the Historic Pilot Knob area. The dog park is on approximately 3 acres of a larger city owned piece of land that is approximately 10.9 acres. The dog park was approved as a temporary dog park under an interim use permit in 2015, and this permit expired in 2020. The city has not yet determined if this dog park 77 8 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update will continue, or allow the lands to be developed into an industrial use, which is what the site is guided for under this 2040 Plan. 3) Natural Resource Area Natural resource areas are lands set aside to preserve significant or unique landscapes. They are often, but not always, properties with steep slopes, drainage ways, ravines, or wetlands. In addition, there may be locations where local tree protection, shoreland and critical area ordinances, or state and local wetland ordinances restrict development in some way. Natural Resource areas include Friendly Marsh, Copperfield Ponds, Valley Park, Pilot Knob Preservation, and Dodge Nature Center. Table 4-1. Parks and Recreational Facilities on the following page identifies the various parks and open spaces throughout the city, along with their general locations and facilities offered: 78 9TABLE 4-1City of Mendota HeightsParks & Facilities TableAcres Nature Areas Trails Softball or Baseball Soccer Tennis Basketball Volleyball Playground Equipment Picnic Area/Shelter Hockey/Skating Rinks Parking Fishing Dock/Piers Restroom FacilitiesCivic Center(next to City Hall)4XXXXCopperfield Ponds (east of Huber Dr. at Cheyenne Ln)24.9 X PXFriendly Hills Park(South of Decorah Ln. - east of Pueblo Ln.)15.5 X PXXXX 3XX X XXFriendly Marsh Park(north of Cheyenne Ln. between Apache & Huber)33.4 X PXHagstrom-King Park(555 Mendota Heights Rd)9.6X PXXX 3XXXHistoric Pilot Knob(2100 Pilot Knob Rd. - Acacia Blvd. & Pilot Knob)25.5 X XXIvy Hills Park (645 Butler Ave. – between Butler & Maple Park Dr.)9.3X PXXXX 3XXXKensington Park(2627 Concord Way / 640 Mendota Heights Rd.)14.6 X PXX FXX EXX CMarie Park(1780 Lilac Ln. – NW corner of Lilac & Marie Ave.) 6.2X PXXXXX XXMendakota Park(SW Corner of Dodd Road & Mendakota Dr.)19.7 X XX YXX XX EXX CRoger's Lake Park(1000 Wagon Wheel Trail- east of I-35E)9.2X XX 3X 4XX EXX XSibley Athletic Complex 1 (Henry Sibley High School - Marie & Delaware)11XXX FX 2XX CMarket Square Park(The Village of Mendota Heights)0.5XXValley Park(821 Marie Ave – east of I-35E)94.4 X X XXX 3XXXXValley View Heights(SE corner of Cullen Ave. & Timmy St.)0.7XX 3XVictoria Highland Park(1700 Diane Rd.-between Victoria, Douglas & Diane)6.7XXX 3XXXWentworth Park(739 Wentworth Ave.)10.5 X PXXXX 3XX X XXTOTAL295.71. Sibley Athletic Complex is a joint use facility owned and operated by ISD #1973. Half-court only.2. ISD #197 maintains 12 tennis courts at Henry Sibley High School4. Sand volleyball court – all others on grass. E = Electrical service. P = Pond/Natural areas.F = Full size soccer field(s).Y = Youth soccer fields.C = Comfort station – Permanent toilet facilityTable 4-1. Parks and Recreational Facilities 79 10 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Trail Facilities Trails for walking, running, biking, and roller blading are very popular. There are 28.5 miles of off-road trails and 4.9 miles of wide shoulders and on-street bicycle facilities currently in portions of the city’s neighborhoods. These trails are both off- and on-road and serve as important connections for recreational opportunities and travel. Improved trail connections are important in Mendota Heights because many residential areas are divided by highways and arterial roads. Access to the Big Rivers Regional Trail is difficult due to the significant elevation changes. As a result, many areas of the community cannot be easily accessed on bikes, roller blades or foot from other areas of the community. Additional or improved trail connections are needed to provide residents access to city parks and other recreational opportunities in the region. Regional Trails Big Rivers Regional Trail: Developed in 1996 by Dakota County along the old Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way, this trail enables residents to bike, walk, and roller blade along the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers. This trail serves as an important link to other communities and has greatly improved the awareness and accessibility of the River. River-to-River Greenway: This trail serves as a link from Big Rivers Regional Trail through Valley Park to West St. Paul and to South St. Paul. Local Trails and On-street Facilities Mendota Heights has a network of paved and on-street bicycle facilities connecting different neighborhoods in the city. Most bicycle and pedestrian facilities in the city are off-street six to eight- foot-wide bituminous trails. There are also a few on-street bicycle facilities in the community, along Dodd Road, Delaware Avenue, and Decorah Lane. City parks and trails, including other natural resource areas, are illustrated on Map 4-1. Parks and Trails. 80 11 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RDCITY OF EAGAN CITY OF WEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLER AVEVICTORIA RDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RD DODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI - 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R I DG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSON AVE L IL Y D ALETRAILS IB L E Y M E M O R I A L HW YSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODDRD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park Cemetary Lake Augus ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake Minnesota R iverMississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62 TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private)FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire Hall PickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. M ENDO T At oLEBANON HILLSGREENW AY & TRAIL TextRIVER t o RIVERGREENWA YRIVERtoRIVE R GRE ENWAY Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2)Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park River to River Greenway Planned Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway Big Rivers Regional Trail Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) State Park/Property Nature Preserve Cemetary Golf Course City Park (See List) Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet February 2020 FIGURE 4-1 MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RD CITY OF EAGAN CITY OFWEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLERAVE VICTORIARDMENDOTAHEIGHTS RDMENDOTAHEIGHTS RDDODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI- 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R I DG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSONAVE LILYDALETRAIL SIBLEYMEMORIALHWYFUTUREBIGRIVERSREGIONALTRAILSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODD RD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park CemetaryLake Augu s ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake MinnesotaRiverMississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private) NSP Tank Farm FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire HallPickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2) Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7)Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Proposed Future Trail Connection City Park (See List) Golf Course Cemetary Nature Preserve State Property Water City boundary µ03,0006,000Feet June 2019 FIGURE 4-1 MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RD CITY OF EAGAN CITY OFWEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLERAVE VICTORIARDMENDOTAHEIGHTS RDMENDOTAHEIGHTS RD DODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI - 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R I DG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSONAVE LILYDALETRAIL SIBLEYMEMORIALHWY FUTUREBIGRIVER SR E GIONALTRAILSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODDRD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park CemetaryLake Augus ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake MinnesotaRiverMississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62 TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private) NSP Tank Farm FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire Hall PickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2)Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8)Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Proposed Future Trail Connection City Park (See List) Golf Course Cemetary Nature Preserve State Property Water City boundary µ03,0006,000Feet June 2019 FIGURE 4-1 MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RD CITY OF EAGAN CITY OFWEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLERAVE VICTORIARDMENDOTAHEIGHTS RDMENDOTAHEIGHTS RD DODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI- 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R IDG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSONAVE L IL Y D ALETRAILSIBLEYMEMORIALHWY FUTUREBIGRIVERSR E GIONALTRAILSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODDRD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park CemetaryLake Augu s ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake MinnesotaRiver MississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62 TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private) NSP Tank Farm FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire Hall PickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2)Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Proposed Future Trail Connection City Park (See List) Golf Course Cemetary Nature Preserve State Property Water City boundary µ03,0006,000Feet June 2019 FIGURE 4-1 Park & Trail Notes: 1. Public Schools in “Blue” text have public playgrounds. 2. Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3. Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Map created June 2019, Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department Map 4-1. Parks and Trails MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RD CITY OF EAGAN CITY OF WEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLER AVEVICTORIARDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RD DODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI - 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R I DG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSON AVE L IL Y D ALETRAILS IB L E Y M E M O R I A L HW YSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODDRD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park Cemetary Lake Augu s ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake Minnesota R iverMississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62 TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private)FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire Hall PickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. M ENDO T At oLEBANON HILLSGREENW AY & TRAIL TextRIVER t o RI VERGREENWA YRIVERtoRIVE R GRE ENWAY Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2)Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park River to River Greenway Planned Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway Big Rivers Regional Trail Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) State Park/Property Nature Preserve Cemetary Golf Course City Park (See List) Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet February 2020 FIGURE 4-1 MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RD CITY OF EAGAN CITY OF WEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLER AVEVICTORIARDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RD DODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI - 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R I DG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSON AVE L IL Y D ALETRAILS IB L E Y M E M O R I A L HW YSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODDRD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park Cemetary Lake Augu s ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake MinnesotaR iverMississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62 TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private)FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire Hall PickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. MENDO T At oLEBANON HILLSGREENW AY & TRAIL TextRIVER t o RI VERGREENWA YRIVERtoRIVE R GRE ENWAY Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2)Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park River to River Greenway Planned Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway Big Rivers Regional Trail Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) State Park/Property Nature Preserve Cemetary Golf Course City Park (See List) Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet February 2020 FIGURE 4-1 MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RD CITY OF EAGAN CITY OF WEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLER AVEVICTORIARDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RD DODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI - 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R I DG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSON AVE L IL Y D ALETRAILS IB L E Y M E M O R I A L HW YSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODDRD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park Cemetary Lake Augu s ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake MinnesotaR iverMississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62 TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private)FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire Hall PickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. MENDO T At oLEBANON HILLSGREENW AY & TRAIL TextRIVER t o RI VERGREENWA YRIVERtoRIVE R GRE ENWAY Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2)Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park River to River Greenway Planned Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway Big Rivers Regional Trail Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) State Park/Property Nature Preserve Cemetary Golf Course City Park (See List) Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet February 2020 FIGURE 4-1 MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RD CITY OF EAGAN CITY OF WEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLER AVEVICTORIARDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RD DODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI - 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R I DG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSON AVE L IL Y D ALETRAILS IB L E Y M E M O R I A L HW YSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODDRD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park Cemetary Lake Augu s ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake MinnesotaR iverMississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62 TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private)FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire Hall PickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. MENDO T At oLEBANON HILLSGREENW AY & TRAIL TextRIVER t o RI VERGREENWA YRIVERtoRIVE R GRE ENWAY Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2)Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park River to River Greenway Planned Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway Big Rivers Regional Trail Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) State Park/Property Nature Preserve Cemetary Golf Course City Park (See List) Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet February 2020 FIGURE 4-1 MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RD CITY OF EAGAN CITY OF WEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLER AVEVICTORIARDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RD DODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI - 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R I DG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSON AVE L IL Y D ALETRAILS IB L E Y M E M O R I A L HW YSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODDRD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park Cemetary Lake Augu s ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake MinnesotaR iverMississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62 TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private)FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire Hall PickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. MENDO T At oLEBANON HILLSGREENW AY & TRAIL TextRIVER t o RI VERGREENWA YRIVERtoRIVE R GRE ENWAY Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2)Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park River to River Greenway Planned Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway Big Rivers Regional Trail Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) State Park/Property Nature Preserve Cemetary Golf Course City Park (See List) Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet February 2020 FIGURE 4-1 MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RD CITY OF EAGAN CITY OF WEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLER AVEVICTORIARDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RD DODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI - 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R I DG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSON AVE L IL Y D ALETRAILS IB L E Y M E M O R I A L HW YSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODDRD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park Cemetary Lake Augu s ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake MinnesotaR iverMississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62 TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private)FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire Hall PickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. MENDO T At oLEBANON HILLSGREENW AY & TRAIL TextRIVER t o RI VERGREENWA YRIVERtoRIVE R GRE ENWAY Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2)Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park River to River Greenway Planned Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway Big Rivers Regional Trail Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) State Park/Property Nature Preserve Cemetary Golf Course City Park (See List) Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet February 2020 FIGURE 4-1 MARIE AVE W MARIE AVE W LEXINGTON AVEPILOT KNOB RD CITY OF EAGAN CITY OF WEST ST PAULCITY OF SUNFISH LAKEDELAWARE AVEWENTWORTH AVEWACHTLER AVEVICTORIARDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RDMENDOTA HEIGHTS RD DODD RDDODD RDTH 55TH 5 5 M E N D O T A B R I D G E CITY OF MENDOTA I-494 I-494I-35EI - 3 5E I- 3 5 E B R I DG E CITY OF LILYDALE CITY OF ST PAUL EMERSON AVE L IL Y D ALETRAILS IB L E Y M E M O R I A L HW YSIBLEYMEMORIALHWYDODDRD1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mendakota Golf Course (Private) Par 3 (Public) Dodge Nature Center Henry Sibley Senior High Friendly Marsh Rogers Lake Visitation Monastery St Thomas Academy Friendly Hills Middle Resurrection Cemetary Acacia Park Cemetary Lake Augu s ta L em a y L a k e Gun Club Lake MinnesotaR iverMississippiRiverBIGRIVERSREGIONAL TRAILSt Peter'sChurchTH 62 TH 62 Mendota Element. Somerset Element. Somerset Golf Course (Private)FortSnellingStatePark^Scenic Overlook (Dakota County) ^ City Hall & Police ^Fire Hall PickerelLakeRamsey County Park ^Public Works Garage Cem. MENDO T At oLEBANON HILLSGREENW AY & TRAIL TextRIVER t o RI VERGREENWA YRIVERtoRIVE R GREENWAY Source: City of Mendota Heights, Dakota County Surveying & Land Information Department PARK & TRAIL NOTES: 1) Public Schools in "Blue" text have public playgrounds. 2) Neighborhood concrete sidewalks are not shown on plan. 3) Copperfield Pond trail is a gravel trail. Parks 1) Friendly Hills Park 2)Friendly Marsh Park 3) Hagstrom King Park 4) Ivy Hills Park 5) Kensington Park 6) Marie Park 7) Mendakota Park 8) Rogers Lake Park 9) Valley Park 10) Victoria Highland Park 11) Wentworth Park 12) Valley View Heights Park 13) Copperfield Ponds 14) Sibley Park 15) Civic Center Ball Park 16) Historic Pilot Knob 17) Acacia Off-Leash Dog Park 18) Market Square Park River to River Greenway Planned Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway Big Rivers Regional Trail Lilydale Pedestrian Trail (6' wide) Wide Shoulders/On Street Off Street Bituminous Trail (6'-8' wide) State Park/Property Nature Preserve Cemetary Golf Course City Park (See List) Parks and Trails Map City of Mendota Heights µ0 3,000 6,000 Feet February 2020 FIGURE 4-1 81 12 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Future Park and Trail Needs Future Park Needs The City of Mendota Heights is committed to developing and enhancing its park and open space system. City Park needs can be determined by evaluating the number, size, and accessibility and use of parks. The city meets the National Recreation and Park Association’s recommendation of park land and acreage and will continue to reserve city-owned lands and explore options for expanding additional park and recreation space in the city. Future Trail Connections As part of the 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan, the Metropolitan Council identified future regional trail opportunities and priority trail corridors. The Regional Bicycle Transportation Network (RBTN) consists of a series of prioritized Tier 1 and Tier 2 corridors and routes. The goal of the RBTN is to establish an integrated network of on-street bikeways and off-road trails which move bicyclists more efficiently and encourage the implementation of future bikeways. Mendota Heights has approximately 6 roadways within Tier 1 RBTN alignments and 1 roadway within Tier 2 RBTN alignments. Providing connections north-south and east-west through Mendota Heights will be critical. Planned trail connections are noted as follows: •Dodd Road Trail Corridor: Dodd Road runs approximately 3.8 miles north- south the entire length of the city. Approximately one mile of this corridor is served by an existing trail, with potential expansion of the trail corridor in the future. Mendota Heights analyzed 2.8 miles of the corridor between Delaware Avenue and Marie Avenue and between Wagon Wheel Trail and Mendota Heights Road. •Planned Bike Lane – Annapolis Street: a bike lane located along Annapolis Street at the city’s northern border (now under construction). •Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway: The Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway is proposed to travel 8.5 miles through Mendota Heights, Inver Grove Heights, and Eagan. Today, the landscape is largely suburban. Remaining agricultural areas, primarily in Inver Grove Heights’ Northwest Area, are expected to develop over the next 20-30 years. This will allow for future development patterns in this area to be organized around and shaped by the greenway’s natural, cultural, and recreational amenities. 82 13 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update •River to River Greenway: The River to River Greenway connects Lilydale, Mendota Heights, West St. Paul and South St. Paul. The trail is in place between Robert Street and the Mississippi River in South St. Paul. Future construction projects will link Valley Park in Mendota Heights to the area near Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul. •Eagan Soo Line Trail: The City of Eagan and Dakota County have initiated a trail feasibility study in the general area where I-494, I-35E, and TH 55 all come together. This corridor has been identified as a potential regional trail greenway that would connect the Big Rivers and the Mendota-Lebanon Regional Trail corridors. The initial alignment being evaluated includes an abandoned railroad line and two railroad bridges owned by MnDOT. Areas within or adjacent to Highway 55 and I-494 right of way are also identified. These and all other trail systems throughout the community are identified on Map 4-2. Bicycle Facilities and Plan. MENDOTA LILYDALE PICKEREL LAKEMISSISSIPPI RIVERMINNESO T A RI V E R ROGERS LAKELAKE AUGUSTA LA K E L EMA Y GUN CLUB LAKE DODD RDM e ndotatoLebano n HillsGreenwayRegional TrailDODD RDDELAWARE AVESIBLEY MEMORIAL HWYMARIE AVE W MENDOTA HEIGHTS RDLEXINGTON AVELILYDALE RDPILOT KNOB RDHUBER DR SI BLEYMEMORIALNORTHLAND DR WENTWORTH AVE WWACHTLER AVEWAGON WHEEL TRL MENDOTA RDHUNTER LNORCHARD PL VICTORIA RD SIVY FALLS AVE RivertoRiverGreenwayBicycle Facilities and Plan Mapµ0 3,000 6,000 Feet City of Mendota Heights February 2020 Source: City of Mendota Heights, 2018 Metropolitan Council, 2016 FIGURE 4-2 Legend Existing Bike Lane Planned Bike Lane Existing Paved Trail Existing Non-Paved Trail Planned Paved Trail Existing Roadway with Shoulder >= 5' Other Bicycle Facilities USBR 45 Mississippi River Trail Bikeway Metropolitan CouncilTier 1 RBTN Alignments Metropolitan CouncilTier 1 Priority Regional Bicycle Transportation Corridor Metropolitan CouncilTier 2 RBTN Alignments Map 4-2. Bicycle Facilities and Plan Map created June 2019, Source: City of Mendota Heights, 2018 Metropolitan Council, 2016 MENDOTA LILYDALE PICKEREL LAKEMISSISSIPPI RIVERMINNESO T A RI V E R ROGERS LAKELAKE AUGUSTA LA K E L EMA Y GUN CLUB LAKE DODD RD M e ndotatoLebano n HillsGreenwayRegional TrailDODD RDDELAWARE AVESIBLEY MEMORIAL HWY MARIE A V E W MENDOTA H E I G H T S R DLEXINGTON AVELILYDALE RDPILOT KNOB RD HUBER D R SI BL EYMEMORIALNORTHLAND D R WENTWORTH A V E WWACHTLER AVE WAGON W H E E L T R L MENDOTA RDHUNTER LN ORCHARD P L VICTORIA RD S IVY FALLS AVE RivertoRiverGreenwayBicycle Facilities and Plan Mapµ0 3,000 6,000 Feet City of Mendota Heights February 2020 Source: City of Mendota Heights, 2018 Metropolitan Council, 2016 FIGURE 4-2 Legend Existing Bike Lane Planned Bike Lane Existing Paved Trail Existing Non-Paved Trail Planned Paved Trail Existing Roadway with Shoulder >= 5' Other Bicycle Facilities USBR 45 Mississippi River Trail Bikeway Metropolitan CouncilTier 1 RBTNAlignments Metropolitan CouncilTier 1 Priority Regional Bicycle Transportation Corridor Metropolitan CouncilTier 2 RBTNAlignments MENDOTA LILYDALE PICKEREL LAKEMISSISSIPPI RIVERMINNESO T A RI V E R ROGERS LAKELAKE AUGUSTA LA K E L EMA Y GUN CLUB LAKE DODD RD M e ndotatoLebano n HillsGreenwayRegional TrailDODD RDDELAWARE AVESIBLEY MEMORIAL HWY MARIE A V E W MENDOTA H E I G H T S R DLEXINGTON AVELILYDALE RDPILOT KNOB RD HUBER D R SI BL EYMEMORIALNORTHLAND D R WENTWORTH A V E WWACHTLER AVE WAGON W H E E L T R L MENDOTA RDHUNTER LN ORCHARD P L VICTORIA RD S IVY FALLS AVE RivertoRiverGreenwayBicycle Facilities and Plan Mapµ0 3,000 6,000 Feet City of Mendota Heights February 2020 Source: City of Mendota Heights, 2018 Metropolitan Council, 2016 FIGURE 4-2 Legend Existing Bike Lane Planned Bike Lane Existing Paved Trail Existing Non-Paved Trail Planned Paved Trail Existing Roadway with Shoulder >= 5' Other Bicycle Facilities USBR 45 Mississippi River Trail Bikeway Metropolitan Council Tier 1 RBTN Alignments Metropolitan Council Tier 1 Priority Regional Bicycle Transportation Corridor Metropolitan Council Tier 2 RBTN Alignments 83 14 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update State, Regional, and Private Parks and Open Spaces In addition to the city’s parks, there are numerous regional, county and private facilities within or near the city’s borders: Fort Snelling State Park As noted earlier in this chapter, Fort Snelling State Park is the largest park in Mendota Heights with 849 of its 2,642 acres located in the city. It provides outdoor recreation opportunities and natural resource conservation for the public and is considered part of the regional recreational open space system. Fort Snelling State Park is a recreational state park offering swimming, large group and family picnic grounds, a boat launch, interpretive center and historical areas, trails, and scenic overlooks. Most of the park’s active facilities are located on the Bloomington side of the River, requiring most Mendota Heights residents to drive or bike across the I-494, I-35E, and Mendota bridges to access the park. The Mendota Heights portion of the park is left primarily as a natural area as it contains extensive floodplain marsh habitat. Facilities located in Mendota Heights support less intensive uses, such as biking, hiking, cross country skiing, and fishing. The Sibley and Faribault historic sites are also located on the Mendota Heights side. Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan June 2019 Parks & Trails 4-11 State, Regional, and Private Parks and Open Spaces In addition to the City’s parks, there are numerous regional, county and private facilities within or near the City’s borders: Fort Snelling State Park As noted earlier in this chapter,Fort Snelling State Park is the largest park in Mendota Heights with 771 of its 2,642 acres located in the city. It provides outdoor recreation opportunities and natural resource conservation for the public and is considered part of the regional recreational open space system. Fort Snelling State Park is a recreational state park offering swimming, large group and family picnic grounds, a boat launch, interpretive center and historical areas, trails, and scenic overlooks.Most of the park’s active facilities are located on the Bloomington side of the River, requiring most Mendota Heights residents to drive or bike across the I-494, I-35E, and Mendota bridges to access the park.The Mendota Heights portion of the park is left primarily as a natural area as it contains extensive floodplain marsh habitat.Facilities located in Mendota Heights support less intensive uses, such as biking, hiking, cross country skiing, and fishing. The Sibley and Faribault historic sites are also located on the Mendota Heights side. Source: c. 2018, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources 84 15 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Dodge Nature Center The Dodge Nature Center, also referred to as the “Lilly Property”, is a 170- acre private nature preserve area and facility of the city, generally located at the southwest corner of Highway 62 and Delaware Avenue. The nature center is dedicated to the restoration of native plants and animal communities. The center provides excellent educational programs and events for the public, including habitat restoration projects, invasive species removal demonstrations, prairie burns, and native plantings. There are no visitor buildings or restrooms at this location. Trails are open during daylight hours every day of the week; and there are no fees to hike at Dodge Nature Center. Historic Pilot Knob As was noted in Chapter 1, Oȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob is generally located south and west of Highway 55, north of Acacia Boulevard and east of Pilot Knob Road. The 112 acres site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and provides an excellent opportunity for the public to visit and experience historic views of the surrounding areas, and learn more about the history and culture of this significant and sacred place. Pilot Knob is a wonderful natural place to read the landscape; watch migratory birds; and to learn more about prairie and oak savanna restoration work currently in progress. Pilot Knob provides a small vehicle parking area, with walking trails, interpretive areas, and gathering spaces. Refer to the image Map 4-3. O ȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob Historic Landscape Plan: Issues and Opportunities. F0 0.5 1 Miles Pilot Knob Pilot Knob Preservation Preservation EaganEagan West St. PaulWest St. PaulLilydaleLilydaleMississipp i R i v e r Mississipp i R i v e r Minnesota RiverMinnesota RiverFort Snelling (unorg.)Fort Snelling (unorg.)Sunfish LakeSunfish LakeDodge Nature Dodge Nature PreservePreserve Mendota HeightsMendota Heights Saint PaulSaint Paul Location of Dodge Nature Center, Created by: SHC, Source: USDA Aerial Photography Field Office 85 16 Chapter 4 - Parks & Trails City of Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update /PickleballConsulting Group, Inc.Great River GreeningCity of Mendota Heights10699 | 071318Oĥéyawahe / Pilot Knob Historic Landscape Plan: Issues and Opportunities Key MapACACIA BLVDACACIA PARK CEMETERYCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS OWNED PROPERTYBUS & OVERFLOW PARKING ALONG ROADPILOT KNOB RD HWY 13 HWY 110EBHWY 110 WB SIBL E Y MEM O R I A L H IG H W A Y BIG RIVERS R EG IO NAL TR AI L HWY 55 VALENCOUR CIR1234677811121314141516179105LEGENDEXISTING TRAILSOFF-STREET TRAILINTERPRETIVE FEATUREKEY VIEWSWETLAND0’N200’400’1611271238134914165101517Entry AreaParking LotPilot Knob Road + UtilitiesGravel Road ExtensionExisting TrailBluff SlopeExisting Interpretive PanelsMedicine Wheel Overlook - SouthSeven Oaks Gathering AreaFour Oaks Gathering AreaMedicine Wheel Overlook - NorthSeven Council Fires OverlookBig River Regional Trail StopPrivately Owned ParcelsAcacia Park Cemetery - East-sideAcacia Park Cemetery - North-sideOff-Leash Dog AreaKEY FEATURESMap 4-3. Oȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob Historic Landscape Plan: Issues and Opportunities Key Map86 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS: PARKS AND RECREATION STRATEGIC PLANNING RETREAT What needs to happen in the next 3-5 years for Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation to be financially sustainable and engaging, while encompassing the needs and wants of all residents? 87 9a4. Sustained Funding From All Sources Spacious and Gracious Facilities and Programming For All Communication Sustainable source of funding for Parks and Rec A leading community with invested partners Greater connection to the natural environment A safe, connected, walkable and bikeable community Vibrant and diverse community programming Active recreational facilities for all ages Effective 2-way communication with an informed community Long term P&R dedicated finances Be recognized for best park and rec prac�ces Park of larger community (regional) Public/private partnerships (and inter-agency) Clean and safe environment Natural pollinators in full bloom Historic Pilot Knob Interpre�ve Center New/ replacement fishing pier Rehab trails improve connec�vity (new trails) Trails for neighborhood connec�vity People walking to the park Sidewalks on state/county roads All can bike/walk safely to retail Weekly summer evening concert series Concert/ Entertainment series in park Art in the park Iconic winter fes�val Community dog show U�lize Par 3 bocce outside cards/board games inside Teen and pre-teen ac�vi�es and programming Golf! Golf! Golf! Farmers Market Community Center (sr area/ teen center) Sr Ci�zen programming Regional Sports Complex (Bourne) Outdoor Sports Complex Community Center Bourne property rec fields plus ice ska�ng trail Lights at one park fall/spring sports All ages community space A new regional park at Diamond Jim’s (Dakota Cty/ Partnership) New, expanded, well landscaped skate park Updated and improved fields Accessible playgrounds (disabili�es) Communica�on that engages the community PRACTICAL VISION What do we want to see in place in 3-5 years as a result of our actions? 88 BLOCKS WORKSHOP Key Focus Area: Sustained Funding From All Sources Includes vision elements: -A leading community with invested partners -Sustainable source of funding for Parks and Rec What are the possible reasons this is not happening for us right now? -Unclear funding sources -Uncoordinated outreach What issues are we experiencing that keep us stuck? -Compe�ng interests- internal and external -Changing the funding structure What is preven�ng or blocking us from achieving this today? -Poli�cal will -Unavailable resources -Compe�ng interests-internal What is going well for us in this area? -Stable tax base -Special park fund management -City good will What opportuni�es are presen�ng itself? -Genera�onal turnover -Public interest in parks -Poten�al other sources What are the risks to consider if/when we are successful? -Property values increase -Maintenance costs -What about everything else? 89 Key Focus Area: Spacious and Gracious Includes vision elements: - A safe, connected, walkable and bikeable community - Greater connec�on to the natural environment What are the possible reasons this is not happening for us right now? - Communica�on - Commitment to resources, money, staff What issues are we experiencing that keep us stuck? - Deferred Maint - Lack of space What is preven�ng or blocking us from achieving this today? - Under u�lized residents/volunteers - Lack of priori�zed plan - Lack of resources What is going well for us in this area? - Recent hires - Historical planning - Sustained commitment to excellence of services What opportuni�es are presen�ng itself? - Bourn site/OHEYAWAHE - Dakota County trails greenways What are the risks to consider if/when we are successful? - Complacency - Extra wear and tear - Safety/overuse 90 Key Focus Area: Communica�on Includes vision elements: -Effec�ve 2-way communica�on with an informed community What are the possible reasons this is not happening for us right now? -Informa�on overload -Timeliness of informa�on -Communica�on channels/sources What issues are we experiencing that keep us stuck? -Medium selec�on-how do people want informa�on? -City calendar-other partner calendars (i.e. MHAA field use) What is preven�ng or blocking us from achieving this today? -So�ware limita�ons What is going well for us in this area? -Heights Highlights, Friday News-2500 sub -Outreach opportuni�es and engagement e.g. listening sessions What opportuni�es are presen�ng itself? -Text messaging -Expanded social media -New so�ware-website development What are the risks to consider if/when we are successful? -Unsubscribe- informa�on overload 91 Key Focus Area: Facili�es and Programming For All Includes vision elements: - Vibrant and diverse community programming - Ac�ve recrea�onal facili�es for all ages What are the possible reasons this is not happening for us right now? - Restricted space - Poli�cal will to make difficult decisions What issues are we experiencing that keep us stuck? - Conflic�ng interests - Narrow scope of funding sources - Reluctance to change - Historical preserva�on- always the same way What is preven�ng or blocking us from achieving this today? - Absence of resources What is going well for us in this area? - Good ideas- many of which have come from our engagement with community - We do an awesome job with what they have - Meredith!!! - Exis�ng partnerships work well - Good planning in the past - 95% voter turnout - Well educated and mo�vated ci�zens What opportuni�es are presen�ng itself? - Explore op�ons to expand resources - Renewed interest in the city parks What are the risks to consider if/when we are successful? - Increase in golf course interest 92 Manage Park Natural Resources Secure Project Specific Funding Priori�ze List Establish Predictable Sustainable Funding •Convert grass (mow) to na�ve grass •Establish a natural resource advisory comm. (implement cc priority) •Create a natural resource commission •Natural resources- plant pollinator in parks •Naming rights for dona�ons •Mendota Heights Founda�on for special projects like music in parks •Iden�fy funding sources/ community corporate •Take natural resource to capital •Apply for a grant for new R. Lake fish pier •Partner with Dakota County on projects •Develop project list •Rolling CIP plan •Priori�ze improvements (CIP) •Create priori�zed list of what’s funded by tax increase/referendum •Explore purchase of community/regional park space (w/ neighbors) •Establish project “possibility” list to know ideas •Make the easier trail connec�ons happen •Weekly events and ac�vi�es e.g. walks-n-talks •Referendum-research and create building blocks •Sustain funding- Par 3 bond con�nue as dedicated parks money •Ins�tute franchise fees •More support for the MH founda�on (former Mayor K) •Carry Par 3 levy forward •Switch Par 3 purchase levy to general levy •Stop cu�ng user fees Improve Informa�on Delivery Engage Community To Create Buy-In Create Sense Of Community Know Our Community •Update parks trail map for gaps •Communica�on-hire so�ware consultant – solve problem •Heights Highlights bi-monthly •SMS reminders •Invest in beter park and trail maps •Update www mobile capacity park info •New website •Community survey on tax increases (property) •Go to voters- explain needs/wants/whys •Proac�ve community outreach/communica�ons •Priori�ze and implement expanded programming offerings •Define community events- winter fes�val, summer concerts •Community bike rides •Expand outreach (social outreach to underserved) partner in services and opportuni�es •Equity study- iden�fy who is underserved by P&R •Beter understand and forecast the demographics in MH linked to parks needs Increase Human Capital •Hire addi�onal staff, i.e-write grants, 60+ programs, maintenance, etc. •Form volunteer program Atrac�ng And Retaining Qualified Employees And Volunteers Building A Connected Community Priori�zing Needs, Securing Funding, And Execu�ng The Plan STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS 93 Implementation Workshop Strategic Direc�on: Priori�zing Needs, Securing Funding, And Execu�ng The Plan Current Reality First-Year Accomplishments 2-Year Success •Insufficient funding •No comprehensive parks CIP •No natural resources commission •Commit to alloca�ng Par 3 expiring funding to parks and rec •Research referendum •Form rela�onship with Mendota Heights Founda�on •Priori�zing wants and needs •Establish natural resources commission •Sufficient and sustainable parks funding •One comprehensive parks CIP •Func�oning natural resources commission Strategic Direc�on: Building A Connected Community Current Reality First-Year Accomplishments 2-Year Success •No bike trail plan •Outdated website •Limited programming •Lack of community engagement •Need to iden�fy demographics •Plan ini�ated with consultant •Secure funding and hire contractor •Develop calendar of events and funding •Establish list for mee�ngs •Obtain data and start analyzing •Have bike trail plan •Responsive website •Host 2 community events per month •Monthly commissioner, staff, council listening sessions •Use data to provide decision making framework Strategic Direc�on: Atrac�ng And Retaining Qualified Employees And Volunteers Current Reality First-Year Accomplishments 2-Year Success Staff: •Program Staff •StaffProgram •“able and stable” could be impacted by re�rement and space need Volunteers: •Girl Scouts •Great River Greening •Moms Club •Undefined opportuni�es leading to under u�lized volunteers •No “onboarding” process for volunteers •Natural resources •By April 30, 2022, establish a volunteer program including an applica�on, onboarding elements/documents and … •Add staff to address addi�onal programming need/ wants Staff: •Increase # of staff in response to projects/ programs •Increase # of hours for communica�ons •Increase staffing for recrea�on programming Volunteers: •Establish a sustainable, organized volunteer program- i.e. adopt a park etc. •Establish onboarding process for volunteers i.e background check •“Best prac�ce city” 94 What Who When 2021 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Beyond Rela�onship w/Mendota Heights Founda�on City Staff, Commissioners, City Council Establish Natural Resources Commission Ryan/Krista Priori�ze wants and needs City Staff, Commissioners City Council Research Parks Referendum City Staff Commit to alloca�ng Par 3 expiring funding to Parks and Rec City Council Community engagement list of mee�ngs Meredith, Commissioners Bike plan ini�ated with consultant Ryan Website remodel-secure funding, hire contractor Cheryl Demographics-obtain data and start analyzing Meredith Programming-develop calendar of events and funding Meredith Establish volunteer program City Staff 95 Add staff to address addi�onal programming needs/wants City Administrator 96 Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Stakeholders Feedback Session May 24, 2021 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Strategic Plan • Stakeholder Session • May 2021 7:00 Welcome and Introductions 7:15 Context and Overview 7:30 Small Group Discussions 8:10 Report Out and Debrief 8:25 Closing What is one word or image that comes to mind to describe Parks and Recreation in Mendota Heights? 1 What programs, services and events is the City already offering that you are aware of? 2 What is the City currently doing well in Parks and Recreation? 3 What does Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Department need to improve on? 4 What gaps in services in programs/offerings need to be considered as we plan for the changing needs of the community? 5 A large part of the current Mendota Heights parks system was funded through the means of a referendum in the late 1980’s. Since then, some new or additional facilities have been financed through Park Dedication fees from new construction. The City does have some field use fees for organized sports, and the City has been fortunate to have received some grants. However, the majority of parks and recreation improvements come from property taxes. Given this information, what options and resources are available to us for funding park and rec activities? 6 97 9a5. Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Stakeholders Feedback Session May 24, 2021 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Strategic Plan • Stakeholder Session • May 2021 Name Organization What is one word or image that comes to mind to describe Parks & Recreation in Mendota Heights? William McNally W.St. Paul/Mendota Heights Rotary president connected Katie Lowe YMCA Programs Anna Judge Dakota County CDA Walkable Karla Rapp ISD 197 Facility Scheduler Active Laurie McFaul Resident/homeowner and owner of Mindful Music and Arts (early childhood music classes) minimal Elisa Manny K-12 Athletics Family friendly Frances Beth Jacob Beth Jacobs Congregation Outdoors Ann Hathaway Resident Pleasant Judd Fenlon Grand Real Estate Advisors Community Tom Stevens MHAA Softball Kids Bryce Anderson MHAA Lacrosse Smile Jean London Tennis Group Rejuvenation John Kenney Saint Thomas Academy Accommodating Master Boltz The Gym: Boltz’s Family Martial Arts Parks/Kids Greg Geiger MHAA Soccer / Skatepark Opportunity Kaan Cercioglu MHAA Football No Lights Lisa Wolf Salvo Soccer Club Community Adam Smith Community Mike Cashill At Home Apartments Connected 98 Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Stakeholders Feedback Session May 24, 2021 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Laura Jacobson MOMS Club of Mendota Heights Kid-friendly Lisa Grathen ISD 197 Director of Community Education community What programs, services and events is the City already offering? lacrosse sports, frisbee Golf Lessons Youth sports schools Flag football Paved Trails Sports - baseball, socco summer youth field trips ice skating on marie Trails ice skating Summer camps Canoe rentals or is it just racks? Softball and baseball playgrounds 5K run Playgrounds lacrosse sports, frisbee Dog Park facility rental Skateboard park Skatepark Pickleball Frisbee Tennis lessons playgrounds Activities for Children Music in the parks? Fire station Summer Youth Field Trips Flag football Ice Skating Ponds 99 Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Stakeholders Feedback Session May 24, 2021 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Question 1: Megan What is the City currently doing well in Parks and Recreation? Family Programming partnerships Playground equipment seems to be updated +1 +1 Neighborhood centered ice rinks, tennis, basketball courts, playgrounds and ball fields +1 Process for field allocation Non-covid era LOTS of youth opportunities for summer Maintenance of existing field space +1 Lots of great green space that is mowed and maintained regularly +1+1 Pickleball courts are on fire ~ always see groups using those Did a nice job explaining covid expectations on their website for renters Many walking/biking paths throughout the city +1+1 Great that pickleball nets were installed on hockey rink in Marie Park Ice rinks well maintained +1+1+1 Great that pickleball nets were installed on hockey rink in Marie Park, instead of taking away green space, clever use of unused seasonal space +1 Process for reserving tennis courts Good sharing of field space and taking care of the parks & fields Appreciate garbages placed inside the walking path between walking path thru lillydale and valley park? Seeking input from community members +1+1+1 Dog clean-up bags are helping +1+1 Nice pavilion space in parks Closer to Valley Park paths seem to be cleared of snow relatively quickly +1 Skate park is visible--not hidden away--activities are viewable +1 Restrooms are available and clean (even with porta-potties) +1+1 100 Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Stakeholders Feedback Session May 24, 2021 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Staff are a pleasure to work with when reserving space +1+1 +1 Question 2: Karie What does Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Department need to improve? Field lights at mendakota +2 turf fields +2 Lights (i.e. MHAA football and soccer wants lights added at Mendakota) +4 dugouts covers +1+1 lacrosse rebounder wall +1 Resurfacing tennis courts Dislike the surface on the fenced in courts at valley park +1 Art/Music - interactive events in park space +1 +1+1+1 Prepare for growth of lacrosse programs Walking trails for elderly residents +1 Designated walking paths without bikes/rollerblades allowed so that seniors are not afraid to use them Well maintained trails that are free of hazards such as bulging asphalt, etc. +1 Additional trails through the north part of mendota heights +1 Listing of locations of parks, trails, etc. +1+1 Partnerships ( Community Ed) +1 +1 More pickleball and better designed +1 Additional dog parks +1 Indoor room facilities for neighborhood event Dog park could use something in the space besides just the grass - trees or areas to explore. My dog goes there and sits there wondering what there is to do. :-) Mendakota is a dated model for fields, built for beer league softball or adult +1+1+1 101 Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Stakeholders Feedback Session May 24, 2021 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. leagues. Remodel into kid sized ball fields, smaller fields, concessions, lights and water play at mendakota Pavilion? Adjacent to valleypark tennis court could use an update / clean up /new tables etc More frequent resurfacing of trails Adult art offerings +1 Many of the tennis courts don’t drain properly after rain, and that’s also true for Marke Park pickleball court, Marie ball field doesn’t drain well either Fitness facilities indoors +1 Skatepark maintenance and improvements +1+1 Older adult programming +1 Dedicated football-lined field in Mendota Heights (Kensington is a possibility) Outdoor fitness facilities Better water accessibility at Mendakota (faucets?) Fountains within the ponds to control algae growth Splash Pad +1+1 Covered outdoor area at Marie Park (for cookouts, etc.) +1 Bounce-back wall for tennis courts (one-sided tennis court) +1 Removal of par 3 golf course (not profitable; costs taxpayers money; would be a good spot for the turn field) +1 Having a general schedule (calendar) for events so we know what is available and when (we know what is open/available and we know what is going on so we don’t just show up and find out it isn’t) Drop box outside city hall for facility reservations Additional netting for safety at smaller baseball fields Question 3: Irina 102 Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Stakeholders Feedback Session May 24, 2021 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. What gaps in services in programs/offerings need to be considered as we plan for the changing needs of the community? Upgrading playgrounds (that’s been great) More planned events at playgrounds (for small children who are at home during the day) Map of all different walking paths, designated walking paths for seniors Aging tennis players have access and are kept in order +1 Mendakota Park is not utilized to its full potential. Youth can only use 2 days per week. What West St. Paul has done with Harmon Park is a shining example of what is possible. +2 No idea where all the parks are , how to go about reserving a spot at the park (information about the park, registration, way finding) +1 Park reservation system +2 Information about the events, how to engage and participate +1 Social media presence Activities for the seniors in the community +1 Courts being used for dog parks - not good for court - better communication/signage +1 Enjoy the Mailings/Newsletter on what kids can sign up for (summer programs) Prepare of growing lacrosse programs 3rd parties giving skate lessons Condition of the skate park +2 Dirt bike/mt bike friendly space Indoor facilities for classes Online access to services, programs, reservations, etc. (virtual program opportunities) +1 Indoor communal space for residents to rent for card groups / class space for private instruction/ book clubs / knitting clubs / youth association planning meetings, etc. +1 Lots of kids playing pickup basketball at Marie Park in the evenings!! Would be great if more than 1 park had usable courts for this +1 Intergenerational activities and opportunities Indoor clubs/groups (i.e. bridge or exercise or mah jong) Community water park 103 Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Stakeholders Feedback Session May 24, 2021 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Community center that can host receptions/conferences +1 Shade trees near the playgrounds +1 Adult sports leagues (e.g. basketball, volleyball, soccer); alleviating the competition for playing space taken by kids +1 Cross-promoting activities and/or finding partners for activities within the region/area; who does something really well - leverage that Prepare for growth in soccer (i.e. field space) Gaming for youth Modifications for electric cars (e.g. charging, etc.) Space for flying / racing drones Dedicated football field Question 4: Jeremy A large part of the current Mendota Heights parks system was funded through the means of a referendum in the late 1980’s. Since then, some new or additional facilities have been financed through Park Dedication fees from new construction. The City does have some field use fees for organized sports, and the City has been fortunate to have received some grants. However, the majority of parks and recreation improvements come from property taxes. Given this information, what options and resources are available to us for funding park and rec activities and services? Advertising (could be banner, not permanent features) +1 Local Rotary Club Donation To the city Sponsorship (naming rights) +2 Partnership with local organizations and businesses, schools, community education +2+1+1 Federal or state grant(s) +1 Pull Tabs +1 Volunteer --groups in charge of projects (like adopt a highway) +2 Approaching South Roberts St Business Association Mendota Days (or similar events as fundraisers) +1+1 Rallying groups who want specific amenities to do fundraising for their cause +1 104 Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Stakeholders Feedback Session May 24, 2021 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Membership fee (or pay-to-play/use facilities) +1 Concert in the park series to raise money +1 Additional Tax for this purpose, levy +1+1+1+1 (capital campaigns) 5 year fundraising goal Bring in larger events with the ability to generate revenue (concessions) or use ticket sales for event +1 Silent Auction to raise funds HOPEFUL Creating additional conversation opportunities within the community. Mendota Heights listening to what people really want. City will put $$ into the skatepark - time to invest in it either in its current location or a more visible and welcoming location I’m hopeful that we can find funding to do a few of these things. I always feel sad when I have to go to Eagan or WSP or even IGH to do some of the things I like to do So glad that the city is making this attempt to listen and ask for input Looking forward to hearing more from the city - timelines; when will we see action being taken I am hopeful that our older population whose families may have aged out of youth sports, or those who no longer have students in our schools will see the value in supporting these efforts to keep MH a great place to live. DOUBTFUL Spinning wheels - going nowhere Disappointed that the city hasn’t already taken action - we've done band-aid solutions; want our parks to reflect the pride in our community; our community needs to shine Disappointed that we have done some things “on the cheap” 105 Mendota Heights Parks and Rec Stakeholders Feedback Session May 24, 2021 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. QUESTIONS Please look into having a regulation baseball field available to the community. Only STA and Sibley have regulation fields. Are there data that would help the city make some hard decisions about eliminating certain programs and facilities and reallocating those $$ to activities and spaces which might be more efficient use of facilities Not sure what the City wants to provide. What is the vision for services and programs that fits our community size. we can't be everything to everyone, we are not the size of Eagan or even WSP. KEY INSIGHT Appreciate being asked and being included in the conversation I am hopeful that our older population whose families may have aged out of youth sports, or those who no longer have students in our schools will see the value in supporting these efforts to keep MH a great place to live. 106 STRATEGIC PLANNING CALENDAR 2021-2022 Priori�zing Needs, Securing Funding, and Execu�ng the Plan Building a Connected Community Atrac�ng and Retaining Qualified Employees and Volunteers What Who When 2021 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Beyond Update Rela�onship w/Mendota Heights Founda�on City Staff, Commissioners, City Council City Administrator met with the Founda�on to discuss their mission, vision and goals and how the City could benefit from the Founda�on. The Founda�on will be presen�ng at the City Council mee�ng on January 18. Establish Natural Resources Commission Ryan/Krista The Natural Resource and Sustainability Commission bylaws and city code amendments are being brought to the City Council on January 18. Staff is hoping to implement the Natural Resource and Sustainability Commission in Q1 of 2022. Priori�ze wants and needs City Staff, Commissioners City Council Work session held in July to priori�ze requests to City Council for FY 2022 budget. This will be an ongoing project in regards to CIP review. Staff is working to schedule a joint work session in February to discuss again. Research Parks Referendum City Staff Staff is working to research details for a parks referendum. Staff is scheduling mee�ngs with ci�es that have conducted recent referendums for park improvement projects. City Council will need to determine if this is moved forward. Commit to alloca�ng Par 3 expiring funding to Parks and Rec City Council Community engagement list of mee�ngs Meredith, Commissioners Staff will meet with commissioners Meyer and Smith to compile a possible list of community engagement mee�ng possibili�es for 2022. This list will be brought to the Commission to review in February. Bike and pedestrian plan ini�ated with consultant Ryan Applica�on for grant funding was submited on October 15. Staff was successful in receiving a grant and is working to receive RFP proposals to move forward with the project. Website remodel-secure funding, hire contractor Cheryl Included in the final FY 2022 budget was $60,000 for a website redesign. Staff intends to have a new website launched by Q3. An RFP is being developed to pick a vendor. Demographics-obtain data and start analyzing Meredith Staff is working to finalize the updated 2022-2026 CIP and Asset Management plan as well as future age popula�on data. Programming-develop calendar of events and funding Meredith Funding was approved in the 2022 budget along with addi�onal staff to carry out this ini�a�ve. Staff is working to finalize the 2022 City Event Schedule. Establish volunteer program City Staff The Assistant City Administrator is leading this ini�a�ve. A City Volunteer plan will be presented to the City in Q1, with an an�cipated launch in April. Add staff to address addi�onal programming needs/wants City Administrator Included in the FY 2022 budget was the addi�on of a Parks and Recrea�on Manager. The City Administrator will be bringing a job descrip�on to the City Council to approve on January 18. 107 9a6. 108 DATE: January 11, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Winter Fest Update and Volunteer Request INTRODUCTION: Staff has been working to plan the City’s 2022 Winter Fest, which will be called, “Mendota Heights Frozen Fun Fest.” The event will take place the weekend of February 4-6. Below is a list of activities that have been planned. An event postcard will be delivered to Mendota Heights homes prior to the event. Friday, February 4 •Community Hike in Valley Park (4:00pm-5:00pm) *Meet in Valley Park Parking Lot at 4:00pm) o Map will be posted on City Website/Facebook Saturday, February 5 •Ice Sculpture Making at Market Square Park (10:00am) o Professional ice sculptor will be carving a penguin in Market Square Park •Food Trucks and Band at Mendakota Park (2:00pm-5:00pm) o Snow Person Making Contest on Soccer Field at 3:00pm o Band=Retro Soul and Westside Horns feat. Big Mike Sunday, February 6 •Ice Fishing at Roger’s Lake Park (9:00am-11:00am) o Intro to Ice Fishing Demos at 9:00 and 10:00am (FREE, but registration is required) •Family Kickball Tournament at Mendakota Park (2:00pm-5:00pm) o Registration will be available on City website *Coloring Contest/Medallion Hunt throughout the weekend* 109 9b. REQUESTED ACTION: Staff is requesting the Commissioners attend the Community Hike to both help, but also gain valuable feedback from participants on Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation. The Commission should determine other opportunities for involvement at the Mendota Heights Winter Frozen Fun Fest. 110