Loading...
2022-02-08 Parks and Rec Comm MinutesCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS, DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING FEBRUARY 8, 2022 The February meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, at Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. 1. Call to Order – Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. 2. Roll Call – The following Commissioners were present: Jaffrey Blanks, Patrick Cotter, Bob Klepperich, Stephanie Meyer, Michelle Muller, and Amy Smith; absent: Commissioner Dan Sherer. Student Representative: Niko Hess. Staff present: Recreation Program Coordinator, Meredith Lawrence, and Public Works Director, Ryan Ruzek. 2.a Introduction of New Commissioner Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence welcomed the new member of the Commission, Michelle Muller. Commissioner Muller and the other members of the Commission introduced themselves. 3. Election of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence called for nominations for the position of Chairperson. Motion Blanks/second Cotter to nominate Bob Klepperich as Chairperson. There were no other nominations. AYES 6: NAYS 0 Ms. Lawrence opened nominations for the position of Vice Chairperson. Motion Cotter/second Smith to nominate Jaffrey Blanks as Vice Chairperson. There were no other nominations. AYES 6: NAYS 0 4. Pledge of Allegiance The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. 5. Approval of Agenda Motion Meyer/second Blanks to approve the agenda as presented. AYES 6: NAYS 0 6.a Approval of Minutes from January 11, 2022 Regular Meeting Motion Cotter/second Meyer to approve the minutes of the January 11, 2022 Parks and Recreation Commission Regular Meeting. AYES 6: NAYS 0 7. Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda) None. 8. Acknowledgement of Reports Chair Klepperich read the titles of the three updates (Par 3, Recreation, and Park Improvement Updates) and polled the Commissioners for questions. 8.a Par 3 Update Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence briefly reviewed the financial report from December 2021 and highlighted comparisons from the previous year. She noted that she will provide an annual report that will be presented to the Commission in March or April. She noted that there are seasonal job openings for the course posted on the City website. She explained that they are preparing to open the course as soon as the weather allows. Commissioner Cotter commented that this is a positive report. He stated that it appears twice as much income was generated by programing, which reflects a lot of interest from the community in the great programs offered. He expressed appreciation to staff. Commissioner Meyer stated that the Commission previously discussed holding an event at the course in the spring or at the end of the season. She commented that it would be nice to hold an event involving the Parks and Planning commissions. Ms. Lawrence asked if the thought would be to hold a tournament. Commissioner Meyer agreed that could be an idea. Ms. Lawrence noted that she can add that to the March agenda. She stated that they are holding their first ever adult/junior tournament on April 9th; weather dependent. Chair Klepperich stated that he will work with Ms. Lawrence in attempt to plan an event and determine if there would be interest from the Planning Commission. 8.b Recreation Update Ms. Lawrence provided a summary of the recreation update, highlighting recent recreation programs and activities from the Frozen Fun Fest. Commissioner Meyer thanked staff for all the planning for Frozen Fun Fest, noting that it was a great start for a winter festival. She noted that perhaps they could review this in more detail in the future to provide input and plan for the next year. She stated that there are a lot of people out looking for the medallion. Ms. Lawrence explained that staff has begun to review the event details internally but confirmed that she would be interested in hearing input from the Commission and residents to help plan for the 2023 event. Chair Klepperich echoed thanks to Ms. Lawrence and the other members of City staff. 8.c Parks Improvement Update Ms. Lawrence reviewed the parks improvement update. Commissioner Cotter referenced the dugout quotes noting that there has been one bid. He asked if there is a timeline on when an additional bid would be received. Ms. Lawrence replied that staff is actively looking for a second or third quote and has reached out to contractors. She hoped that the quotes would be received in the next two weeks. She stated that if the second quote comes in around the estimated project cost, staff would move that project forward to the City Council. She recognized that there has been difficulty in receiving quotes in this bidding climate. Commissioner Muller asked if the contractor from Mendakota could be used. Ms. Lawrence replied that the Mendakota project was bid out a few months ago and two quotes were received. She stated that staff has asked that contractor to bid the project as well. Motion Blanks/second Smith to acknowledge the staff reports. AYES 6: NAYS 0 9. New Business 9.a Review the Usage of Lights at Friendly Hills for Pickleball Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence stated that staff has been approached by residents interested in using the hockey rink lights for pickleball play in the evenings. She stated that a similar request was made for Marie Park and a pilot program ran during 2021, which was successful and will continue in 2022. She stated that the Commission is asked to make a recommendation for the use of lights at Friendly Hills in 2022. She stated that the lights are on from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily during the hockey season. She stated that the Marie Park pilot program included lighting of the basketball court, but noted that would not be an option at Friendly Hills because the lights would not reach that location. She reviewed when the lights are going to be used at Marie Park in the spring and fall. She stated that six pickleball courts were installed within the hockey rink at Friendly Hills. She stated that as recommended, notices were sent to residents within 500 feet of the park boundary. She reported that over 200 notice letters were mailed and she has not received any comments from residents. She stated that the cost to utilize the lights is estimated at $30 per month and falls within the available budget. Student Representative Hess asked why the basketball court could not be included. Ms. Lawrence explained that at Marie Park the basketball court shares the location of the pleasure rink, therefore there is lighting available to illuminate that area. She stated that at Friendly Hills the basketball court area is not used for the pleasure rink and therefore that lighting does not reach the basketball court. She commented that it would be costly to move the lighting or install new lighting. Commissioner Smith asked when Friendly Hills would have an updated basketball hoop and court. Ms. Lawrence replied that is included in the CIP and believed that would occur within the next few years. Commissioner Cotter asked if the lighting has been well received at Marie Park. Ms. Lawrence confirmed that there was very favorable feedback for the lighting at Marie Park. She stated that if the Commission wants to recommend a trial program at Friendly Hills, it should consider timing. She noted that the Marie Park pilot program ran just two months in the fall and advised that the Commission could look to follow the 2022 lighting schedule for Marie Park. Commissioner Smith noted that the pickleball courts are closer to homes at Friendly Hills. Commissioner Cotter asked if there has been sufficient time for comment. Ms. Lawrence confirmed that the notice was sent over one month ago and welcomed comments via email or phone, and she did not receive any comments. Chair Klepperich welcomed input from residents. Mary Melzarek, 717 Navajo Ln, stated that she lives across the street from the hockey rink and has made her concerns known that the new LED lights are bright and obnoxious. She stated that she has learned to play pickleball since the courts have become available at the park. She stated that she goes to Marie Park to play pickleball. She stated that Marie Park sits in a lower location, whereas the lights at Friendly Hills shine right into her windows. She recognized that the Commission will likely move forward but asked that there is an understanding that residents should go home when the sun goes down. She referenced the proposed lighting schedule for Marie Park and asked if that would be the schedule for Friendly Hills as well. She commented that would result in lighting eight or nine months of the year. She asked that the basketball court not be lit because it is close to the street and people already play late at night even without lights. She recognized that amenities are great but asked that the neighborhood also be thought of. She stated that she will most likely use the lighting and play pickleball. She asked that perhaps the season be shortened a bit. Commissioner Smith stated that her concern with Friendly Hills lighting was related to the proximity of the homes and therefore understands that this is different than Marie Park. Commissioner Meyer asked if there has been discussion of how lighting could be blocked from the neighboring homes. Commissioner Smith commented that there are a few trees that have been planted to provide screening but recognized that they are small. Commissioner Meyer commented that she is also nervous about lighting pickleball at this location because it is different than Marie Park. Commissioner Blanks asked if the angle of the lights could be adjusted to avoid the homes. Ms. Lawrence commented that they have attempted to adjust the trajectory of the lights and can review that again. She stated that staff can also look at a natural barrier. Commissioner Cotter asked if there has been a large group of residents making this request for lighting. He acknowledged that Marie Park is better suited for lighting because of the topography. Ms. Lawrence stated that a handful of calls were received last fall when the Marie pilot program was occurring. She agreed that if the Commission wants to go forward, it should be in a trial format and staff should have the authority to stop the trial program if there are problems. She commented that if the trial program is not working, it can easily be resolved. Chair Klepperich asked the age of the lighting fixtures and when the LED bulbs were installed. He commented that new installations are very directional and do not allow for bleeding into areas where the light does not belong. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek estimated that the new LED lights were installed about six or seven years ago. He agreed that lighting should not be casting a shadow into another yard, but the light can still be seen. He was unsure that footcandles had been measured from across the street. Commissioner Meyer asked the resident why she plays at Marie Park versus the Friendly Hills court. Ms. Melzarek commented that there were tar skim coats applied to the Friendly Hills court, therefore those courts are rough. She stated that the Marie Park courts are in much better condition. She stated that there are also issues with flooding after a rain event. She recognized that the hockey lights are set by timer but asked that they be shut off when the rink if not open or when it is raining. Commissioner Meyer commented that she would recommend that a trial not occur in the spring which provides opportunity to review natural screening. She also suggested that the condition of the court be reviewed and stated that the trial program could be reviewed again to potentially occur in the fall. Motion Meyer/second Blanks to delay a lighting trial and bring the item back for consideration of a fall trial program. AYES 6: NAYS 0 Ms. Lawrence noted that this will go forward to the City Council and staff can bring up the concept of reviewing a natural barrier. She stated that if this is going to be revisited, staff would need to time to prepare, and the Council would need to review the recommendation as well. Commissioner Cotter asked if there is any way to get a better sense of the number of residents that desire lighting. He stated that it is difficult to make a recommendation based off a handful of requests and a neighbor speaking in representation of her neighbors. He stated that he would like a better sense of the need or desire for lighting at Friendly Hills prior to the next review. Student Representative Hess commented that if there is a way to track pickleball use, he would find it helpful to also have the data on the number of youth players. Ms. Lawrence commented that this will be the first year where all six courts will be open. Commissioner Muller commented that as an evening walker, she finds lighting helpful to make her feel safe while walking in the park. Commissioner Meyer asked if there would be a spring parks tour. Ms. Lawrence commented that could be setup if the Commission desires. She noted that there will be a ribbon cutting at Friendly Hills on April 21st with a pickleball event. Commissioner Meyer commented that perhaps the pickleball courts could be placed on the tour in order to gain additional knowledge. Chair Klepperich stated that he will ensure that is placed on an upcoming agenda. 9.b Rules of Order Ms. Lawrence stated that the rules of order and Commission City Code were included in the packet for review and provided a brief overview, identifying items that she has received recent questions on. Chair Klepperich commented that the group is an advisory commission, making recommendations to the City Council. 9.c Assign Commissioner Parks Chair Klepperich stated that each year the Commission assigns parks to each member to visit and provide updates on. He noted that safety issues should be communicated to staff immediately and should not wait for the next meeting. Ms. Lawrence noted that Commissioner Sherer should also be kept in mind for park assignments. The following park assignments were agreed upon: • Commissioner Sherer: Market Square and Kensington • Commissioner Muller: Hagstrom King and Rogers Lake • Commissioner Meyer: Marie Park and Victoria Highlands • Commissioner Cotter: Wentworth and Civic Center • Commissioner Blanks: Valley and Mendakota • Commissioner Smith: Friendly Hills and Dog Park • Chair Klepperich: Ivy Hills and Valley View Heights 10. Unfinished Business 10.a Parks and Recreation Strategic Planning Update Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence provided background information on the strategic planning efforts of the Commission and Council related to parks. She stated that there is a joint worksession with the Commission and Council the next week which will be held at the Fire Station. She stated that the Mendota Heights Foundation provided a presentation to the Council at a recent meeting and noted that a link was provided to the Commissioners via email. She stated that the Council approved the establishment of the Natural Resources Commission and applications are now being accepted for members, anticipating a first meeting in April. She provided an overview of the recent efforts towards the items within the plan. Commissioner Meyer asked for additional details on the grant received. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek explained that Dakota County administers a statewide health improvement plan with a maximum grant amount of $30,000. He stated that the full amount was awarded, which requires a $5,000 match. He stated that the City will be looking to determine how the trail system can be more connected, focusing on underserved populations such as seniors. He stated that the study will provide recommendations on trail improvements and will include cost estimates. He stated that six proposals were sent to consulting firms and three proposals were received. He stated that staff will provide a recommendation to the Council at its next meeting. 11. Staff Announcements Recreation Program Coordinator Meredith Lawrence shared the following announcements: • The Assistant City Administrator will attend the March meeting to recap the communications survey • Seasonal positions are open and posted on the City website • Shelter and canoe rack rentals will soon open on the City website • Other events can be found on the City’s website 12. Student Representative Update Student Representative Hess commented that it seems the majority of youth park usage has been focused on the hockey rinks. He stated that his friend works in a warming house and has stated that he has been somewhat busy. He stated that at the school, open gym use continues to be a popular offering for students. 13. Commission Comments and Park Updates Commissioner Smith • Residents are enjoying sledding and skating at Friendly Hills • Frozen Fun Fest was a great event, and her family has enjoyed looking for the medallion Commissioner Meyer • Echoed the compliments about Frozen Fun Fest • Ice skating is popular at Marie Park • Thank you to City staff for continuing to clear snow from the trails for walking Commissioner Muller • Echoed the thanks for clearing of trails as she enjoys walking through the parks • Frozen Fun Fest allowed for a gathering of neighbors which she enjoyed Commissioner Blanks • Echoed the comments thus far related to trail clearing • People are enjoying the compost available at Mendakota • Enjoyed the music and food trucks at the Frozen Fun Fest Commissioner Cotter • Echoed the comments related to Frozen Fun Fest • Congratulated Chair Klepperich for his new position • Was happy to see the clearing at the dog park • Ice fishing event at Rogers Lake was a great event Chair Klepperich • Appreciated the confidence the Commission has shown in him • He and Chair Goldade met prior to the meeting with staff to set the agenda and he would like to continue that with Vice Chair Blanks • Any requests for the agenda should be made at least one week in advance • Recognized Student Representative Hess for his participation and presence at the meetings 14. Adjourn Motion Meyer/Second Cotter to adjourn the meeting at 7:56 PM AYES 6: NAYS 0 Minutes drafted by: Amanda Staple TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.