2022-08-04 Park and Rec Work Session MinutesCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Minutes of the Parks and Recreation Commission Work Session
August 4, 2022
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a work session of the Parks and Recreation Commission, City of
Mendota Heights, Minnesota began at Rogers Lake Park: 1000 Wagon Wheel Trail, Mendota Heights
MN.
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Bob Klepperich called the meeting to order at 5:03pm. Commissioners Smith, Muller, Sherer (left
at 6:35pm), Blanks, Meyer and Cotter (left at 5:30pm) were also present. Public in attendance included
Sally Lorberbaum and John Maczko.
City staff present included Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager.
TOUR OF ROGERS LAKE PARK
The commission looked at the Rogers Lake Skate Park and discussed the FY2023 budget request for
replacement. Staff discussed the importance if the City Council approves this project in 2023 to provide
staff with strict instructions in regards to budget and scope so the Skate Park subcommittee can
reconvene and recommend a design.
The commission discussed the need for the pavilion to be replaced in 2023 and reviewed the aging
swing set at the playground. Commissioner Sherer asked staff to look at spraying the hinges of the
swings.
TOUR OF VALLEY VIEW HEIGHTS PARK
Staff reviewed with the Commission the aging playground that has been requested to be updated in
2023. The Commission reviewed the site plan of the playground and discussed ways to increase the size
of the playground and the importance of adding 5-12 year old features to the park in order to provide a
recreational amenity that provides opportunity for all kids in the neighborhood.
TOUR OF WENTWORTH PARK
The commission walked the new parking lot and remarked that it provides a clearer definition of
entrance and exit of the park. The new parking areas being clearly defined will ensure safety for young
users of the park. The commission was happy with the new paved rink and discussed options for the
2022-2023 ice skating season in regards to a warming house. The commission walked to the tennis court
and expressed disappointment in its poor surfacing. The commission requested this renovation project
be completed in 2023. The commission looked at the baseball field and Commissioner Sherer discussed
his concerns with the field with those present.
TOUR OF IVY HILLS PARK
The commission looked at the sport court surface at Ivy Hills Park and asked questions to staff regarding
its useful life and durability. Chair Klepperich noted his appreciation for the new trail at the park. Those
present looked at the basketball court and discussed either increasing its size or adding a grass volleyball
court to the east of the basketball court. The commission looked at the new swing that was installed at
the playground.
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence summarized the comments heard from the
commissioners and encouraged the commission to attend the budget workshops that the City Council
will be holding later in August.
The commission adjourned the meeting at 7:03pm.
Minutes Taken By:
Meredith Lawrence
Parks and Recreation Manager