2023-01-10 PRC Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Tuesday, January 10, 2023- 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 13, 2022 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.Approval of Revisions to the Picnic Shelter Policy
b.Park Bench Donation
9.Unfinished Business
a.Review of Draft 2023 Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Work Plan
b.Frozen Fun Fest-2023
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.
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CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS, DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING
DECEMBER 13, 2022
The December meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on
Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve.
1. Call to Order – Chair Bob Klepperich called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
2. Roll Call – The following Commissioners were present: Chair Bob Klepperich,
Commissioners: Jaffrey Blanks, Patrick Cotter, Stephanie Meyer, Michelle Muller, and Dan
Sherer; absent: Commissioner Stephanie Meyer, Amy Smith, and Student Representative: Meg
Murphy. Staff present: Parks and Recreation Manager, Meredith Lawrence, and Public Works
Director, Ryan Ruzek.
3. Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
4. Approval of Agenda
Motion Blanks/second Cotter to approve the agenda AYES 5: NAYS 0
5.a Approval of Minutes from November 9, 2022 Regular Meeting
Motion Blanks/second Sherer to approve the minutes of the November 9, 2022 Parks and
Recreation Commission Regular Meeting.
Further discussion: Chair Klepperich noted on page two, an additional statement was added as
requested by Commissioner Sherer stating that, “MHAA has multiple sports and each works
independently within its budget and one sport does not substitute for another.”
AYES 5: NAYS 0
5.b Approval of Minutes from December 1, 2022 Work Session
Motion Blanks/second Muller to approve the minutes of the December 1, 2022 Parks and
Recreation Commission Work Session. AYES 5: NAYS 0
6. Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda)
None.
7.Acknowledgement of Reports
Chair Klepperich read the titles of the three updates (Par 3, Recreation, Park Improvement
Updates, and Park and Recreation Strategic Planning Update) and polled the Commissioners
for questions.
7.a Par 3 Update
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence provided an overview of the October report
and compared that to the previous year. She also reviewed the year-to-date revenue and
expenditures for the course. She stated that the round report also receives information from
previous years going back to 2018, noting that 2022 had the highest number of rounds. She
reported that the course closed November 10th and the discontinuation of the senior golf pass
and other recommended fees were approved by the City Council. She noted that two pieces of
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equipment have been received and it is anticipated that the other two pieces of equipment could
be received later this month. She noted the 2023 projects for the course that were included as
part of the approved budget.
Commissioner Cotter noted that in the last four years the number of rounds has doubled and
commended staff for that success.
Commissioner Sherer stated that the revenue has exceeded the budget forecasts and asked
the plan for the excess revenue.
Ms. Lawrence replied that if there is a positive balance at the end of the year that goes into the
Par 3 Fund which can be used for equipment purchases and other maintenance expenditures.
She noted that the carryover could also be used to offset a year that does not generate as much
revenue, should that be necessary. She noted that there are future maintenance items on the
horizon as well, such as the underground piping replacement for the irrigation system which has
an estimated cost of $750,000.
Commissioner Sherer asked for budget details on the proposed budget for 2023 for the course
in regards to line items.
Ms. Lawrence stated that staff reviews the actuals for current season expenditures to make
increases where appropriate. She stated that they attempt to estimate costs as close to where
they will be for the next year.
7.b Recreation Update
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence highlighted upcoming recreational
programing activities and events. She also highlighted the events planned for Frozen Fun Fest.
7.c Parks Improvement Update
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence provided an overview of the report which
highlights progress on different projects. She also noted the park improvement projects that
were included in the 2023 budget.
Commissioner Cotter asked if the City still qualified for the grant for the tennis court resurfacing.
Ms. Lawrence replied that staff believes that the project will qualify. She stated that in the last
receipt of funds the City received $20,000 and noted that the project is estimated at $110,000.
7.d Park and Recreation Strategic Planning Update
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence stated that the Commission met December
1st to discuss 2023 priorities. She stated that staff will bring back a draft of that information and
a work plan for the Commission to review at the January meeting.
8. New Business
8.a Approval of 2023 Meeting Schedule
Chair Klepperich stated that the proposed 2023 meeting schedule was included in the packet
and noted that there were not any anticipated conflicts with the regular meeting date.
Commissioner Sherer noted that the February meeting is scheduled for Valentine’s Day and
perhaps might be a conflict.
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Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence noted that the Natural Resources
Commission meets the second Wednesday of the month, therefore moving to the next day will
no longer be an option. She stated that if desired, staff could look for another option for that
meeting.
The Commission confirmed consensus with the February date as scheduled.
Motion Blanks/second Muller to approve the 2023 meeting schedule. AYES 5: NAYS 0
8.b Recommendation of Playground RFP for Valley View Heights Playground Project
Chair Klepperich noted that the project scope and proposed RFP were included in the packet for
review.
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence provided background on the Valley View
Heights playground. She stated that the work group met and provided a recommendation of
features for the playground to include in the RFP, noting that the RFP would be sent to all
reputable vendors. She reviewed the proposed project budget, photographs of the existing
playground, and anticipated project timeline.
Chair Klepperich noted that he was assigned to check on this park this year and advised that it
is a park tucked away in a neighborhood, providing the location.
Commissioner Sherer commented that there is a path connection to the south which makes the
park easy to access from Rogers Lake. He asked if the language related to the climbing feature
and the suitable age ranges reads appropriately.
Ms. Lawrence noted that there are standards for the different age level equipment and advised
that is the same language that was used in the Marie Park playground RFP. She noted that
certain features are only designed for those two to five, while other features are designed for
those five to 12.
Commissioner Cotter noted that most new playgrounds have sections for smaller kids and older
kids. He stated that he would be fine with the language as proposed. He noted that if
clarification were desired, they could add in the organizations that enact those standards.
Commissioner Sherer stated that he is comfortable with the language as proposed, noting that if
a vendor has a question, they could ask staff.
Commissioner Muller noted that there is not a parking lot. She stated that there is a basketball
court and asked if it would make sense to upgrade to an adjustable hoop at this location.
Ms. Lawrence replied that she would not add that to the RFP because it is not a playground
feature. She stated that dependent on the cost of the project, they could potentially look at the
basketball hoop. She noted that there is a separate plan that would update all of the basketball
hoops to adjustable hoops within the next five years. She confirmed that if that is desired that is
something that could probably occur during 2023 using special parks funds.
Commissioner Muller noted the increase in donated benches and asked if donors request
specific locations. She stated that the benches within the playground container would take
away from playground space.
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Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek provided details on the donated bench program of the City.
He stated that it is great to have benches replaced as part of a park as well. He stated that he
did recently receive two donated benches that had location requests. He noted that there could
be an opportunity to put one of those benches in this location if the donor agrees.
Ms. Lawrence stated that there are fall zones and regulations as to where equipment can be
placed. She noted that typically benches are placed near the equipment for smaller children to
make it easier for parents to keep their eyes on their children.
Motion Cotter/second Blanks to recommend to the City Council to issue the RFP in order to
advertise bids for the replacement of Valley View Heights Playground. AYES 5: NAYS 0
9. Unfinished Business
10. Staff Announcements
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence shared the following announcements:
• Staff will begin flooding outdoor rinks this Friday, anticipating that skating could begin in
10 to 14 days
• Temporary warming house at Wentworth will be delivered December 19th. The City is
still looking for more warming house attendants.
• Three Commission members will be leaving after the January meeting: Commissioners
Cotter, Smith, and Chair Klepperich. She welcomed interested residents to apply.
• Other events can be found on the City’s website
11. Student Representative Update
None.
12. Commission Comments and Park Updates
Commissioner Cotter
• Excited about the Par 3 Report
• Winter activities proposed reflect the different demographics and interests of the
community
• Wentworth Park continues to be a work in progress, and he is excited to see it moving
forward
Commissioner Blanks
• Valley and Mendakota parks are both doing well
Commissioner Muller
• Thanked staff for having the Copperfield Ponds trails cleared
• Excited about the winter clubhouse activities
• Thanked Council for approval of the budget and related parks projects
Commissioner Sherer
• Hagstrom King and Market Square parks have been quiet with the recent weather
Chair Klepperich
• Snow had been removed from the basketball court at Valley View
• Thanked staff for their presence and work in preparation for the meetings
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13. Adjourn
Motion Blanks/Second Sherer to adjourn the meeting at 7:24 PM
AYES 5: NAYS 0
Minutes drafted by:
Amanda Staple
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Parks and Recreation Commission | Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | Page 5 of 31
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DATE: January 10, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: Par 3 Update
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.
League and Golf Program Planning
Staff is in the process of finalizing the 2023 recreational program offerings for the Mendota
Heights Par 3 Community Golf Course. The informational catalog will be presented at the
February meeting.
Capital Improvement Projects
The City Council approved the following projects for the Par 3 in 2023:
•Maintenance Building Fence (contract is approved)
•HVAC Replacement at Clubhouse (contract is approved)
•Window Replacement at Clubhouse
•Sidewalk Work at Clubhouse
•New Patio Furniture (furniture has been ordered)
•Carpet Replacement at Clubhouse
Maintenance Equipment Acquisition
The City Council approved the acquisition of the following pieces of equipment in October, 2021:
Aerator, Workman/Topdresser and Sandpro. Staff has been working with MTI Distributing to take
possession of these pieces of equipment. There has been a manufacturing delay so the estimated
arrivals are as follows:
•Aerator: Delivered (General Fund Balance)
•Sandpro: 2023 (Par 3 Fund)
•Workman: 2023 (Par 3 Fund)
•TopDresser: Delivered (Par 3 Fund)
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DATE: January 10, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: Recreation Update
Blade with the Blue
Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Mendota Heights and West Saint
Paul Police Departments for Blade with the Blue on January 28 from 1:00-3:30pm. Children 12
and under are invited to join Mendota Heights and West Saint Paul police officers at
Wentworth Park ice rink for a fun day of recreational hockey.
Adaptive Bowling
Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation has partnered with the cities of West Saint Paul and
Inver Grove Heights to offer a non-competitive, adaptive bowling league on Saturdays from
January 21 to March 11 at Concord Lanes in South Saint Paul.
Winter Senior Programs
This winter, Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation will be offering a variety of programs for
seniors at the Mendota Heights Par 3 Community Clubhouse:
•Games and Coffee
o Coffee, Cribbage and Cards: January 18 (9:00-11:00am) FREE
o Coffee, Cribbage and Cards: February 1 (9:00-11:00am) FREE
o Coffee, Cribbage and Cards: February 22 (9:00-11:00am) FREE
•Fun & Informative Nature Presentation
o Who’s Out There and What are They Doing? February 15 (10:30-11:30am)
Gymnastics Program
Mendota Heights and West Saint Paul Parks and Recreation are offering youth gymnastics
lessons from January 14 to March 4 at the Harmon Park Neighborhood Center.
Tour De Rec Update
This school year youth and families are invited to join city staff 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 is required.
•February 2 (6:00pm-7:00pm)-Southview Park
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• March 2 (6:00pm-7:00pm)-Harmon Park Neighborhood Center
• April 6 (6:00pm-7:00pm)-Marie Park
• May 4 (6:00pm-7:00pm)-Mendota Elementary
2023 Recreation Offerings
Staff is in the process of finalizing the various recreational offerings for the 2023 season. The
Summer 2023 catalog will be presented at the February meeting.
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DATE: January 10, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: Park Improvement Update
Dugout/Fence Work
The following projects have been approved by the City Council and are estimated to be
completed in early Spring, 2023:
•Installation of two dugouts @ Civic Center Field
•Installation of two dugouts @ Victoria Highlands
•Installation of two dugouts and adding 1st/3rd baseline fences @ Valley Park
•Installation of 3rd baseline fence @ Hagstrom King (Completed)
The total project cost was $56,417.
Budget/2023 Project Update
Included in the 2023 budget for parks capital improvement project are:
•Civic Center Foul Ball Fencing/Infield Maintenance: $40,000
•Wentworth Park Warming House: $100,000 (project scope similar to Marie and Friendly
Hills Warming Houses)
•Roger’s Lake Skate Park Improvements: $225,000
•Wentworth Park Tennis Court Resurfacing: $90,000
•Valley View Heights Playground Replacement: $75,000
Wentworth Tennis Courts: Staff has begun discussions with the USTA in order to prepare a grant
application for funding assistance on this project.
Valley View Heights Playground: RFP was approved by the City Council on January 3 and has been
released to reputable vendors. Proposals are due back to the City by February 22.
Roger’s Lake Skate Park: Staff is actively working on this project in conjunction with the
consultants and subcommittee. Two subcommittee meetings have taken place thus far. Staff
intends to bring a final plan for the Commission and City Council to review in the Spring of 2023.
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Special Park Fund Balance
Currently the Special Parks Fund is showing an estimated balance of approximately $721,500 as
of January 3, 2023.
The following expenses from 2022 were:
• Audit: $1,240.16
• Victoria Highlands Pitching Mound: $5,468.50
• Wentworth Warming House Architect and Prep: $15,748.50
• Mendakota Dugouts: $89,860
• Wentworth Hockey Rink: $86,300
• Hagstrom King Foul Fence: $2,843
• Mendakota Dugout Concrete Work: $8,800
Total: $210,260.16
Approved expenses but not yet paid:
• Dugouts at Valley, Victoria Highlands, and Civic Center: $53,574
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DATE: January 10, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: Approval of Revisions 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 2022, the City
permitted 88 picnic shelter reservations.
On January 15, 2019 the City Council approved the Mendota Heights Picnic Shelter Reservation
Policy. In January of 2022, the City Council approved the following revisions to the Picnic Shelter
Reservation Policy:
•Increased the number of days a permit request needs to be submitted in advance of a
desired date of the event
•Clarified the application deadline for Picnic Shelter Reservations
•Quantified the number of picnic tables each facility will provide per reservation
At the end of the 2022 season, staff reviewed the policy and discussed implementation. Staff is
recommending a policy amendment beginning in 2023 that aligns the picnic shelter reservation
request deadlines to the field and facility use policy deadlines.
Currently, the picnic shelter reservation policy states the following for application deadlines:
•Permits will be issued throughout the year based on the following timeline:
o Permit requests for use during the calendar year shall commence the first business
day in March, thereafter, on a first come, first serve basis for all interested parties.
Staff is proposing the following application deadline:
•Permits will be issued three times throughout the year based on the following timeline:
o Permit requests for use from December through February will be due on the first
business day in November.
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o Permit requests for use from March through July will be due on the first business
day in February.
o Permit requests for use from August through November will be due on the first
business day in June.
In 2022 there were some weekends where the picnic shelter was rented when user groups
proposed adding sporting tournaments. Mendakota Park does not have the capacity to host both
a baseball tournament and a picnic shelter reservation the same weekend. By syncing up the
request deadlines, administrative staff can work to ensure this does not occur in 2023.
In addition, it prevents picnic shelters from being rented in the Fall, prior to athletic use permits
being received by staff.
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, recommend approval of
the amended Mendota Heights Picnic Shelter Reservation Policy, as attached.
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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 1817, 20222023
Parks and Recreation Commission | Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | Page 15 of 31
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. Permit requests shall be submitted at least
five (5) 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 shall commence the first business day
in March, thereafter, on a first come, first serve basis for all interested parties.
Permits will be issued three times throughout the year based on the following timeline:
• Permit requests for use from December through February will be due on the first
business day in November.
• Permit requests for use from March through July will be due on the first business day in
February.
• Permit requests for use from August through November will be due on the first business
day in June.
D. Terms and Conditions of Use
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• 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.
• 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.
E. Non-Use of Reserved Picnic Shelters
When permits are issued, a specific picnic shelter is reserved for the user, to the exclusion 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 used by another user or the general public.
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.
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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.
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
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.
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 CoordinatorParks and Recreation Manager
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: mlawrence@mendotaheightsmn.gov
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DATE: January 10, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Ryan Ruzek, P.E., Public Works Director
SUBJECT: Approval of Memorial Park Bench – Victoria Road
INTRODUCTION:
The Park Bench Donation program was adopted in 2001. Through the program, a resident may
donate $1,000 to the city to offset the costs to purchase and install a park bench. Any costs above
the donated amount would be the responsibility of the city from the parks maintenance budget.
Mendota Heights received two park bench donations from Mr. and Mrs. Newman to be installed
near Country Day School and Ivy Hills Park as shown on the attached maps. The park bench is in
memory of Tyler Newman.
The desired plaque language for the memorial bench would read:
In Memory of Tyler Newman who loved these parks and trails.
ACTION REQUESTED:
If the Parks and Recreation Commission concurs, it should, by motion, recommend approval of
the memorial bench location along the Victoria Road trail.
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Park Bench Donation
Date: 1/4/2023
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SCALE IN FEET
GIS Map Disclaimer:This data is for informational purposes only and should not be substituted for a true title search, property appraisal, plat,survey, or for zoning verification. The City of Mendota Heights assumes no legal responsibility for the information containedin this data. The City of Mendota Heights, or any other entity from which data was obtained, assumes no liability for any errorsor omissions herein. If discrepancies are found, please contact the City of Mendota Heights.
Contact "Gopher State One Call" at 651-454-0002 for utility locations, 48 hours prior to any excavation.
Proposed Park Ben ch
Parks and Recreation Commission | Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | Page 22 of 31
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This im agery is copyrighted an d licen sed by Nearm ap US In c, which retain sown ership of the im agery. It is bein g provided by Dak ota Coun ty un der theterm s of that licen se. Un der that licen se, Dak ota Coun ty is allowed toprovide access to the “Offlin e Copy Add-On for Govern m en t”, on which thisim age services is based, at 6-in ch resolution , six m on ths after the capturedate, provided the user ack n owledges that the im agery will be used in theirn orm al course of busin ess an d m ust n ot be resold or distributed for the
Park Bench Donation
Date: 1/4/2023
City ofMen dotaHeights0200
SCALE IN FEET
GIS Map Disclaimer:This data is for informational purposes only and should not be substituted for a true title search, property appraisal, plat,survey, or for zoning verification. The City of Mendota Heights assumes no legal responsibility for the information containedin this data. The City of Mendota Heights, or any other entity from which data was obtained, assumes no liability for any errorsor omissions herein. If discrepancies are found, please contact the City of Mendota Heights.
Contact "Gopher State One Call" at 651-454-0002 for utility locations, 48 hours prior to any excavation.
Proposed Park Ben ch
Parks and Recreation Commission | Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | Page 23 of 31
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DATE: January 10, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: Draft Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation 2023 Work Plan
INTRODUCTION:
The Parks and Recreation Commission is asked to review and discuss the Draft Mendota Heights
Parks and Recreation 2023 Work Plan.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
In December, the Parks and Recreation Commission met in the form of a work session to discuss
their 2023 goals and priorities. Building off the Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan, staff compiled
the attached 2023 work plan, which directly relates back to the strategic initiatives outlined in
the City’s Parks and Recreation strategic plan.
The following action items are included in the 2023 work plan:
•Receive education on potential funding sources (referendum, charitable gambling,
franchise fees, and sponsorships)
•Finalize sponsorship donation, naming rights, and legacy program policy
•Work with businesses (Village and Plaza) for event engagement
•Work with the City of West Saint Paul to determine if a joint athletic use facility is feasible
•Host work session with the Natural Resource Commission
•Create a trail CIP program
•Update trail maps to be more accessible
•Increase senior programming
•Develop a Pre-K program
•Staff completion of 15-year CIP plan
•Look at options to expand teen opportunities indoors
•Add QR codes on signage within parks
•Continue community engagement meetings
RECOMMENDATION:
The Commission should review the 2023 Draft Work Plan and provide staff with any
recommended changes. Staff will refine the document and bring it back to the Parks and
Recreation Commission for adoption at the February, 2023 meeting.
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Parks and Recreation Commission | Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | Page 25 of 31
STRATEGIC
INITIATIVE
ACTION ITEMS RESPONSIBILITY TIMELINE
Sustainable Funding Source for
Parks and Recreation
1.1 Receive Education on Potential
Funding Sources (Referendum,
Charitable Gambling, Franchise
Fees, Sponsorships)
1.2 Finalize Sponsorship,
Donation, Naming Rights, Legacy
Program Policy
1.1 City Administrator/Parks and
Recreation Manager
1.2 Parks and Recreation Manager
1.1 April, 2023
1.2 May, 2023
A Leading Community with
Invested Partners
2.1 Work with Businesses (Village
and Plaza) for Event Engagement
2.2 Work with the City of West
Saint Paul to determine if a Joint
Facility is Feasible
2.1 Parks and Recreation
Manager/Recreation Program
Coordinator
2.2 City Administrator/Parks and
Recreation Manager
2.1 April, 2023
2.2 September, 2023
Greater Connection to the
Natural Environment
3.1 Host Work Session with
Natural Resource Commission
3.2 Create Trail CIP Program
3.1 Parks and Recreation Manager
3.2 Public Works Director
3.1 March, 2023
3.2 June, 2023
A Safe, Connected, Walkable and
Bikeable Community
4.1 Host Bike Clinic/Fix it Clinic
with Local Bike Shops
4.2 Update Trail Maps to Be More
Accessible
4.1 Recreation Program
Coordinator/Parks and Recreation
Manager
4.2 Parks and Recreation Manager
4.1 July, 2023
4.2 June, 2023
Vibrant and Diverse Community
Programming
5.1 Increase senior programming
5.2 Develop a Pre-K Program
5.1 Recreation Program
Coordinator
5.2 Recreation Program
Coordinator
5.1 December, 2023
5.2 September, 2023
Active Recreational Facilities for
All
6.1 Staff Completion of 15 year
CIP Plan
6.2 Look at Options to Expand
Teen Opportunities Indoors
6.1 Parks and Recreation Manager
6.2 Parks and Recreation
Manager/Recreation Program
Coordinator
6.1 April, 2023
6.2 November, 2023
Effective Two-Way
Communication with an Informed
Community
7.1 Add QR Codes on Signage
within Parks
7.2 Continue Community
Engagement Meetings
7.1 Parks and Recreation Manager
7.2 Parks and Recreation
Commissioners
7.1 April, 2023
7.2 October, 2023
Parks and Recreation Commission | Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | Page 26 of 31
STRATEGIC PLANNING CALENDAR 2023
ACTION ITEM STRATEGIC
INITIATIVE
RESPONSIBILITY TIMELINE
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec UPDATE
Receive Educa�on on Poten�al Funding Sources
(Referendum, Charitable Gambling, Franchise
Fees, Sponsorships
Sustainable Funding
Source for Parks and
Recrea�on
City Administrator/
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager
Finalize Sponsorship, Dona�on, Naming Rights,
Legacy Program Policy
Sustainable Funding
Source for Parks and
Recrea�on
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager
Work with businesses (Village and Plaza) for
Event Engagement
A Leading Community
with Invested Partners
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager/Recrea�on
Program Coordinator
Work with the City of West Saint Paul to
determine if a joint facility is feasible.
A Leading Community
with Invested Partners
City Administrator/
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager
Host Joint Work Session with Natural Resource
Commission
Greater Connec�on to the
Natural Environment
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager
Create Trail CIP Program Greater Connec�on to the
Natural Environment
Public Works Director
Host Bike Clinic/Fix It Clinic with a Local Bike
Shop
A Safe, Connected,
Walkable and Bikeable
Community
Recrea�on Program
Coordinator/ Parks and
Recrea�on Manager
Update Trail Maps to Be More Accessible A Safe, Connected,
Walkable and Bikeable
Community
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager
Increase Senior Programming Vibrant and Diverse
Community Programming
Recrea�on Program
Coordinator
Develop a Pre-K Program Vibrant and Diverse
Community Programming
Recrea�on Program
Coordinator
Staff Comple�on of a 15 Year CIP Ac�ve Recrea�onal
Facili�es for All
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager
Look at Op�ons to Expand Teen Programming
Opportuni�es Indoors
Ac�ve Recrea�onal
Facili�es for All
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager
Add QR Codes on Signage within Parks Effec�ve Two-Way
Communica�on with an
Informed Community
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager
Con�nue Community Engagement Mee�ngs Effec�ve Two-Way
Communica�on with an
Informed Community
Parks and Recrea�on
Commissioners
Parks and Recreation Commission | Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | Page 27 of 31
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DATE: January 10, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: Frozen Fun Fest Update
Staff has been working to plan the City’s 2022 Winter Fest, which is called the, “Mendota Heights
Frozen Fun Fest.” The event will take place the weekend of February 10-12. Below is a list of
activities that have been planned. The attached event postcard will be delivered to Mendota
Heights homes prior to the event.
Friday, February 10
•Cupid’s Valentine Crawl at Market Square Park (4:30-6:30pm)
o Kick off your Valentine’s week with a Cupid Crawl to local businesses, for a
chance to win a prize! Then join us for live music and crafts at Market Square
Park.
Saturday, February 11
•Puzzle Competition at Fire Station (9am-Noon)
o Fun for all ages; teams of up-to-four people race to finish a 500-piece puzzle and
win prices! (FREE, but registration is required)
•Ice Festival at Friendly Hills Park (4:00pm-6:00pm)
o Hit the ice to the music of a live DJ, grab a food truck dinner, watch live ice
sculpting and warm up by the fire.
Sunday, February 12
•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)
•Snow Footgolf at Mendota Heights Par 3 Community Clubhouse (12:00-2:30pm)
o Bring the whole family, lace up your boots and play five holes of snow footgolf
(FREE, but tee time is required)
*Coloring Contest/Medallion Hunt throughout the weekend*
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Parks and Recreation Commission | Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | Page 29 of 31
MEDALlION HUNT
Begins Wednesday, Feb. 8
Search for the Frozen Fun Fest
medallion hidden in a Mendota
Heights public park and win the
grand prize! Daily clues posted
at 8 a.m. on the City website
and Facebook - see website for
contest rules.
COLORING Contest
Feb. 3–10
Color a winter masterpiece for
a chance to win fantastic prizes.
Print your coloring sheet or pick
one up at City Hall, then drop it
off in the City Hall water utilities
drop box by 11:30 a.m. Feb. 10.
FREe FUN FOR EVERYONE!
Feb. 10–12
MENDOTA HEIGHTS
Hosted by
Mendota Heights
Parks & Recreation
Friday, Feb. 10
Cupid’s Valentine Crawl
4:30–6:30 p.m.
Market Square Park
Kick off your Valentine’s week with
a Cupid Crawl to local businesses,
for the chance to win a prize! Then
join us for music and crafts at
Market Square Park.
Sunday, Feb. 12
YOUTH ICE FISHING*
9–11 A.M.
Rogers Lake Park
Learn to fish from experts who
provide equipment and guidance.
Ages 14 and under.
Snow FoOtgolf*
12-2:30 P.M.
Par 3 ComMunity Clubhouse
Bring the whole family, lace up your
boots and play five holes of snow
footgolf; tee times required.
MendotaHeightsMN.gov/FrozenFunFest
MORE FROZEN FUN!
Saturday, Feb. 11
PuzZle competition*
9 A.m.–NoOn
fire station
Fun for all ages; teams of up-to
four people race to finish a
500-piece puzzle and win prizes!
Ice Festival
4–6 P.m.
FRIENDLY HILlS Park
Hit the ice to the music of a live
DJ, grab a food truck dinner,
watch live ice sculpting and
warm up by the fire.
*Register Today!
Some events require
registration; space is limited,
secure your spot today.
Parks and Recreation Commission | Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | Page 30 of 31
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
Winter RecreationBlade with the BlueJan. 28 • 1–3:30 p.m.
Wentworth Park
Youth ages 12 and under are invited to join police
officers from Mendota Heights and West St. Paul for a
fun day of pick up hockey games and ice skating.
Registration is recommended.
Tour de RecFeb. 2 • 6–7 p.m.
Southview Park
Each month, Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation
partners with West St. Paul to bring games and
activities for children ages 6-12 to neighborhoods
throughout the community!
Nature Sense: Who’s Out There and What are They Doing?Feb. 15 • 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Par 3 Community Clubhouse
Join Naturalist Eloise Dietz for an informative
presentation highlighting signs of animals in winter!
Registration required.
Summer Program Registration
Begins 9 a.m. Feb. 28!
MendotaHeightsMN.gov/ParksRecreation
SUBSCRIBE to eNEWS MendotaHeightsMN.gov
FACEBOOK /MHParksandRec
CITY HALL BUSINESS HOURS Mon–Thurs: 7 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | F: 7–11:30 a.m.
PARKS & RECREATION 651-452-1850
Parks and Recreation Commission | Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | Page 31 of 31
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