2023-11-14 PRC Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Tuesday, November 14, 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.September 12, 2023 Regular Meeting Minutes
b.October 3, 2023 Work Session Minutes
6.Public 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.Review Park System Master Plan Draft
b.2024 Fee Schedule Recommendation
9.Unfinished Business
a.Parks and Recreation Strategic Planning Update
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
DRAFT PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 12, 2023
The September meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held
on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve.
1. Call to Order – Chair Jaffrey Blanks called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
2. Roll Call – The following Commissioners were present: Chair Jaffrey Blanks,
Commissioners: Stephanie Meyer, Michelle Muller, Jo Schifsky, Dan Sherer, and Michael Toth;
absent: Commissioner Tica Hanson. Student Representative: Meg Murphy. Staff present:
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator Willow
Eisfeldt, and Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek.
3.Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
4. Approval of Agenda
Motion Sherer/second Muller to approve the agenda AYES 6: NAYS 0
5.a Approval of Minutes from August 8, 2023 Regular Meeting
Motion Muller/second Schifsky to approve the minutes of the August 8, 2023 Parks and
Recreation Commission Regular Meeting. AYES 6: NAYS 0
6. Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda)
None.
7.Acknowledgement of Reports
Chair Blanks read the titles of the three updates (Par 3, Recreation, and Park Improvement
Updates) and polled the Commissioners for questions.
7.a Par 3 Update
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence briefly reviewed the report, noting that the
June financial report was also included and provided an overview. She highlighted record
breaking rounds in both June and July and also noted that concession sales have increased as
well. She commented that August was also a strong month and September has been strong
thus far as well. She stated that all of the equipment that was ordered in 2021 has now been
delivered and aeration was completed the previous week. She highlighted additional
improvement projects that have been completed or will still be completed this season.
7.b Recreation Update
Recreation Program Coordinator Willow Eisfeldt provided an overview of the different events
held during the Parks Celebration weekend. She highlighted upcoming events and
programming opportunities.
Commissioner Muller thanked staff for their efforts for the Parks Celebration events. She
commented that the events were great and there were many volunteers of all ages. She noted
5a.2
that the Makers Market follows the District’s 5K and encouraged people to participate in the 5K
as well.
Commissioner Schifsky asked for details on Cycles and Cider and asked who the fixers would
be.
Recreation Program Coordinator Willow Eisfeldt stated that she reached out to Dakota County
and was able to secure some volunteers that assist with County bike fix it events. She stated
that a staff member also has a family member with that skill that will be volunteering.
Commissioner Muller thanked staff for incorporating the new event.
7.c Parks Improvement Update
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence provided an overview of the report
highlighting progress on the different improvement projects.
Commissioner Muller asked if skaters should remain off the concrete at Rogers Lake Park.
Ms. Lawrence confirmed that there are signs that the park is closed as the concrete needs to
cure for 30 days. She stated that people will be made aware of when the concrete is available
for use.
Commissioner Schifsky stated that perhaps better signage is needed as she saw people skating
on her way into the meeting tonight.
Ms. Lawrence noted that there is also caution tape but noted that staff will need to find
something better to block off that area.
8.New Business
8.a Establish Master Plan RFP Subcommittee
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence stated that staff is seeking two or three
commissioners to serve on a Master Plan RFP Subcommittee. She stated that staff would like
to begin working on the RFP now, explaining that if the project is included in the budget for
2024, they would be able to begin work much quicker than if the creation of the RFP is delayed
until 2024. She recognized that all members may want to provide input and therefore once the
subcommittee work is completed, it would come before the Commission for input. She stated
that if the item is included in the budget, staff would issue the RFP in December.
Commissioners Meyer and Schifsky volunteered.
Commissioners Sherer and Toth commented that their schedules would not allow participation
in the subcommittee.
Chair Blanks commented that he could also participate.
Motion Blanks/second Muller to appoint Chair Blanks, Commissioner Meyer, and Commissioner
Schifsky to a subcommittee to establish a Master Plan RFP. AYES 6: NAYS 0
8.b Parks Tour Agenda
3
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence stated that the Commission annually holds a
park tour and at the last meeting, October was chosen as the month for that tour. She noted
that the tour will take the place of the regularly scheduled October meeting. She reviewed the
parks that were included in the tour for the previous year. She noted that Valley Park has been
requested as one of the locations and welcomed input on the other park locations.
Chair Blanks asked the next park assigned for remodel.
Ms. Lawrence noted that would be Ivy Hills. She stated that Valley was included in the CIP for
next year but was pushed back to allow trail work to be completed.
Commissioner Meyer suggested Marie to review the pickleball courts. She noted that could be
the last visit to allow staff to get back to City Hall easily.
Commissioner Sherer suggested Friendly Hills as well to compare the pickleball courts.
Commissioner Toth asked if they should focus on parks that need attention and have upcoming
projects.
Commissioner Muller noted that Valley would be a good location because of the need for
improvements and commented that would also give them an opportunity to look at the pavilion
as the pavilion improvements keep getting put off.
Commissioner Meyer stated that perhaps Victoria Highlands would be a good choice because
of the age of the swing set, as the swings were not replaced at the same time as the
playground. She stated that she would not be opposed to Mendakota but has spent a fair
amount of time there this summer as may have other members of the Commission.
Commissioner Muller noted that Mendakota could be a good fit as they go into the master
planning process.
Ms. Lawrence provided details on the potential for that playground to be fully accessible, noting
that is scheduled for five years out. She stated that they would be soliciting outside funding for
that project and therefore it would be a different process than typical playground replacement
projects.
Commissioner Sherer stated that Kensington could be another opportunity as they move into
soccer season as it has nice fields but not a lot of parking.
Ms. Lawrence replied that facility is maxed out for the allowed soccer field hours, although it
does not get large tournaments.
Commissioner Muller noted that would also provide an opportunity to review the fencing issue
that was declined by the City Council.
Ms. Lawrence confirmed the parks as Valley, Marie, Friendly Hills, and Kensington and
commented that staff would solidify the order of the visits.
9.Unfinished Business
9.a Parks and Recreation Strategic Planning Update
4
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence provided an update on the progress on the
strategic goals.
Commissioner Meyer referenced community engagement, noting that it is great to do new and
different things in the future. She noted that one of the intentions was to inform people about
the Park Commission, encourage interested people to serve, and receive input in a less formal
setting. She commented that she feels that it is important to meet people where they are rather
than asking them to come to City Hall, where they may not feel as comfortable sharing their
thoughts.
Ms. Lawrence recognized that community engagement is up to the Commission and if that is
something the Commission wants to do, staff would support that, but staff will not take the lead.
Commissioner Meyer agreed, noting that she believed that they did get benefits out of the
previous sessions.
Chair Blanks agreed as well, noting that he would like to increase visibility of the Commission at
different events, suggesting t-shirts which would allow the public to know they are part of the
Commission. He agreed that they did get a lot out of the engagement focusing on visibility and
programing. He stated that they are not necessarily not doing community engagement
anymore, but perhaps that is done more through interactions in the community rather than the
focus groups.
Ms. Lawrence stated that they could move more quickly with nametags for the group, while t-
shirts may take a bit longer to design.
Commissioner Schifsky agreed that nametags would be a good start.
Chair Blanks stated that he would also like to do t-shirts.
Ms. Lawrence confirmed that she could work with Chair Blanks and Commissioner Muller to
develop a draft design for the shirts that could be presented to the Commission for review.
Commissioner Sherer encouraged the members of the Commission to engage with residents
and groups, informally, to continue to gather input and different perspectives.
10.Staff Announcements
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence shared the following announcements:
•She will contact the subcommittee members to begin that process
•Seasonal employment positions have been posted on the website for the winter season
•Thanks to staff as it has been a busy few months with the summer recreation and event
season
•Other events can be found on the City’s website
11. Student Representative Update
Student Representative Murphy commented that it is great to see the Par 3 doing well and there
appear to be some fun activities coming up in the next few weeks.
5
12. Commission Comments and Park Updates
Commissioner Sherer
•Everything is in good shape at Hagstrom King with the playground and basketball court
are getting a lot of use and some teams are still using the fields
•The contractor did a fabulous job at Civic Center on the baseball field
Commissioner Toth
•Asked how often the woodchip material is leveled back out at Mendakota
•Spoke with a resident at Friendly Hills that was gathering acorns to feed the squirrels
during the winter and a number of residents were playing pickleball
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence provided details on the monitoring of park
condition done by season and regular parks staff.
Commissioner Muller
•Rogers Lake has been very active with people enjoying fishing and canoeing and noted
people skating on the concrete
•Asked about a pedestrian trail crossing
•Kensington looks great but the fencing is rusted
Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek provided an update on the timing of that pedestrian crossing
as part of a MnDOT project.
Chair Blanks
•Market Square is great and there is a new restaurant open
•Valley Park is a great park, and the basketball court was being used by young children
Commissioner Schifsky
•Was impressed with the new concrete pad at Rogers Lake, noting that she also saw
people skating on the surface
•Ivy Hills looks great
•It is great to see the projects underway at Wentworth
Commissioner Meyer
•Marie has been busy with pickleball play
•Valley View Heights is also wonderful with the new playground equipment
•Echoed thanks to staff for the events that have occurred this year and those yet to come
13. Adjourn
Motion Muller/Second Toth to adjourn the meeting at 7:31 PM
AYES 6: NAYS 0
Minutes drafted by:
Amanda Staple
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
6
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
DRAFT Minutes of the Parks and Recreation Commission Work Session
October 3, 2023
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a work session of the Parks and Recreation Commission, City of
Mendota Heights, Minnesota began at Kensington Park: 2627 Concord Way, Mendota Heights MN.
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Jaffrey Blanks called the meeting to order at 4:32pm. Commissioners Muller, Schifsky, Toth, Meyer
(arrived at 4:45pm) and Hanson were also present. Commissioner Sherer was absent.
City staff present included Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager and Ryan Ruzek, Public
Works Director.
TOUR OF KENSINGTON PARK
The commission took a look at the fence at Kensington Park on the Southern portion of the park that
backs up to Highway 494. Staff discussed that this project was not included in the 2024 budget and that
the next year will be a good opportunity to seek potential alternatives to a chain-link fence replacement.
The Commission discussed with staff the usage of the fields and the concession stand, as well as the
process to obtain a permit for the picnic shelter.
Commissioner Muller commented that the new lilac bushes look wonderful. Public Works Director
Ruzek discussed with the commission the potential greenway project and trail connection that is
proposed to go through Kensington Park.
TOUR OF FRIENDLY HILLS PARK
The Commission reviewed the pickleball courts and discussed the surface and potential options for
additional pickleball courts at the park moving forward. Commissioner Schifsky suggested that the
courts be repositioned in the future and that 10 courts are included in the hockey rink in the future. The
Commission discussed the need for dedicated pickleball courts within the community as a whole.
Commissioner Muller brought up concerns in the park regarding trail connectivity from the parking lot,
in addition to the lack of accessibility.
Parks and Recreation Manager Lawrence discussed recent vandalism at Friendly Hills Park within the
tennis courts and next steps for remedying the issue.
The Commission reviewed the playground at the park and discussed the need for the replacement of the
swing set. The Commission discussed options when the playground is replaced. This project is currently
slated for a replacement in 2026. Commissioner Schifsky suggested a nature-based playground be
considered. Staff discussed potential opportunities and constraints with a nature-based playground
moving forward.
5b.7
TOUR OF VALLEY PARK
The Commission reviewed the current state of the trail system through Valley Park. Public Works
Director Ruzek discussed Dakota County taking over the greenway and the potential changes the park
and trail system will undergo. Public Works Director Ruzek discussed with the Commission that Dakota
County offered to replace the existing tennis courts with new pickleball courts free of cost to the City
due to the potential encroachment of the tennis fence, but that the City Council was not in favor of that
idea.
The Commission discussed the importance of adding electricity to the new picnic shelter replacement at
Valley Park in the future. In reviewing the playground, the Commission discussed the importance of
providing inclusive playgrounds that provide opportunities to all residents regardless of ability or
physical limitations.
TOUR OF MARIE PARK
The Commission was excited to see the tennis courts being used at Marie Park and commented that
each park that was visited that evening with tennis courts had residents using them which was positive.
The Commission reviewed the surface of the pickleball courts within the hockey rink and enjoyed seeing
the lights being used for nighttime pickleball play. Commissioner Hanson asked if the nets could be
replaced with real pickleball nets and staff said they would look into it.
The Commission reviewed the playground and discussed how positive and successful this project has
been. Staff discussed with the commission that included in the preliminary budget for 2024 included
funding for the addition of dugouts at the field and infield renovation work to provide a better and safer
playing surface for users.
Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence summarized the comments heard from the
commissioners and discussed upcoming recreation programs and events.
The commission adjourned the meeting at 6:35pm.
Minutes Taken By:
Meredith Lawrence
Parks and Recreation Manager
8
DATE: November 14, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: Par 3 Update
Concrete Leveling
Staff hired a contractor to raise the concrete on the West side of the clubhouse near the patio.
Over the years the concrete has become severely uneven and staff is concerned regarding the
safety of the unevenness for staff and customers. This project was completed on September 25.
Financial Update
The finance report for August is included in the packet. Staff will review this with the
commissioners at the meeting.
Turf Conditions
Overall the turf is in great condition as the 2023 season ends. The turf was the healthiest it has
been in the past five years. The snow mold application on the greens has been applied.
End of Season
The Par 3 closed for the season on Friday, October 27. In the month of August, the course had a
total of 3,052 rounds of golf played and a total of $45,921 in monthly revenue. The 2023 year-to-
date revenue total including August is $252,379. The course’s August expenditures totaled
$29,425. The year-to-date expenditure total is $177,286. As of now the course is showing a
$75,093 operating surplus.
2024 Capital Projects
•Additional Patio Benches and Tables $12,000
•Greens Roller Replacement $16,000
•Fiber (Door Access/Cameras) $100,000
These projects are what staff proposed for 2024 and will need Council approval before moving
forward. During budget work sessions, the City Council was unsure regarding the need for a few
of the proposed capital items/projects.
7a.9
Round Recap
Year 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
March 0 0 0 748 0 0
April 0 576 327 1678 896 1181
May 1710 1521 3138 2285 2797 2923
June 1674 1542 2881 2305 2839 3365
July 1744 1784 2470 2673 3213 3753
August 1681 1888 2568 2306 3042 3052
September 861 785 1962 1758 1798 2043
October 246 76 937 1157 1077 1168
November 20 0 0 257 207 0
Additional 0 152 0 451 377 478
Total 7936 8324 14283 15618 16246 17963
League Rounds
Womens League 983
Junior League 566
Senior League 58
Total 1607
Senior Golf Pass 190
GRANT TOTAL 19760
10
MONTHLY EXPENDITURE REPORT
AUGUST 2023
MENDOTA HEIGHTS PAR 3
BUDGET TO ACTUAL REPORT
AUGUST 2023 (66.67% OF YEAR)
August
REVENUES August YTD YTD YTD
BUDGET 2023 2023 %2022
GREENS, LEAGUE & TOURN FEES $150,000 $36,421 $173,704 115.80%$143,520
RECREATION PROGRAMS $45,000 $2,341 $49,038 108.97%$51,358
CONCESSIONS $22,500 $7,145 $29,503 131.13%$27,949
SUNDRY REVENUE $0 $13 $134 100.00%$303
INTEREST $450 $0 $0 0.00%$0
INSURANCE CLAIM $0 $0 $0 0.00%$0
PAR 3 FUND REVENUE TOTAL $217,950 $45,921 $252,379 115.80%$223,130
EXPENDITURES August YTD YTD YTD
BUDGET 2023 2023 %2022
CLUBHOUSE SALARIES $42,300 $9,607 $32,244 76.23%$31,273
ADMINISTRATIVE SALARIES $30,722 $2,370 $19,685 64.07%$16,554
FICA/PERA $12,952 $1,476 $6,654 51.37%$7,016
MEDICAL INSURANCE $7,187 $599 $4,792 66.67%$4,567
U/E & W/C INSURANCE $3,255 $238 $5,602 172.12%$3,103
RENTALS $6,000 $1,660 $4,617 76.95%$6,298
UTILITIES $14,495 $1,808 $8,732 60.24%$8,590
PROFESSIONAL FEES - AUDIT $2,990 $0 $3,304 110.50%$2,877
PROF FEES - CONSULTING FEES $1,100 $0 $61 0.00%$0
PROF FEES - GROUNDS MGMT $7,250 $0 $0 0.00%$3,728
PROF FEES - GROUNDS WAGES $25,000 $2,797 $13,998 55.99%$11,920
PROF FEES - TREE MAINTENANCE $1,500 $0 $2,779 185.25%$5,300
LIABILITY/AUTO INSURANCE $4,800 $0 $3,365 70.11%$3,885
OPERATING COSTS/SUPPLIES $8,850 $788 $8,763 99.02%$9,889
FUEL $2,600 $343 $1,409 54.20%$1,971
REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE $54,750 $5,918 $46,332 84.63%$31,574
SUNDRY/DUES/MILEAGE/CLOTHING $12,750 $24 $6,999 54.89%$2,463
CONTINGENCY $0 $0 $0 0.00%$0
ONLINE REG & CREDIT CARD FEES $7,975 $1,797 $7,949 99.68%$6,495
PAR 3 EXPENDITURES TOTAL $246,476 $29,425 $177,286 71.93%$157,503
7a1.11
DATE: November 14, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Willow Eisfeldt, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: Recreation Update
Trick-Or-Teeing Update
Trick-Or-Teeing 2023 occurred on Saturday, October 21 from 5-7pm. We saw over 700 people
come out to the Mendota Heights Par 3 Community Golf Course for two hours of Halloween fun
including trick-or-treating, mini golf, s’mores making, hot cider, crafts and more. Staff would
personally like to thank the businesses and City departments that came out to help run such a
successful event:
•Mendota Heights Police Department
•Brighter Minds Music
•Dustin Stifter-State Farm Insurance Agency
•Hush Therapeutic Massage
•Dr. Jennifer with Lakeside Orthodontics
•Lions United Fitness
Barktober
Barktober was held at the Mendota Heights Off-Leash Dog Park on Saturday, October 14. The
event saw over 50 owners and pups come out for play-time, puppy painting, a photo booth and
more. The event was successful and staff heard positive comments, as well as feedback to
improve the event in upcoming years.
Coffee, Cribbage, and Cards
Coffee, Cribbage and Cards is back by popular demand at the Mendota Heights Par 3 Community
Clubhouse. This reoccurring program will be held every other Wednesday starting November 15
from 9am-11am. Games are intended to be non-competitive, with a focus on socializing. This is
a free event but we ask that everyone registers prior to joining.
7b.12
Tour De Rec
Tour De Rec has seen a high number of attendees this fall and we are excited to continue the
programming throughout the winter and into spring. The next dates are included below:
•Thursday, December 7 at Mendota Elementary Gymnasium: Ninja Night
•Thursday, January 4 at the West St. Paul Dome: Sports Spectacular
•Thursday, February 1 at the Harmon Park Neighborhood Building: Crafts and Cookies
Blade with the Blue
Blade with the Blue has been added to the calendar in partnership with West St. Paul Parks and
Recreation, Mendota Heights Police Department, and West St. Paul Police Department. This
event will be held on Saturday, January 27 from 1-3pm at Wentworth Park in Mendota Heights.
More information to come.
Frozen Fun Fest
Frozen Fun Fest has also been added to the calendar for February 9 through February 11. Staff is
working to prepare this event and will give further updates in the coming weeks.
Winter Seasonal Jobs
Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation has many seasonal positions available this winter for
individuals looking for some part-time work. The City is looking for Warming House/Rink
Attendants and Ice Skating Instructors and Assistants. More information on available positions
can be found here: www.mendotaheightsmn.gov/jobs
13
DATE: November 14, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: Park Improvement Update
Budget/2023 Project Update
Included in the 2023 budget for parks capital improvement projects are:
•Civic Center Foul Ball Fencing/Infield Maintenance: $40,000 COMPLETE
•Wentworth Park Warming House: $100,000 (project scope similar to Marie and Friendly
Hills Warming Houses) IN PROGRESS
•Roger’s Lake Skate Park Improvements: $225,000 IN PROGRESS
•Wentworth Park Tennis Court Resurfacing: $90,000 IN PROGRESS
•Valley View Heights Playground Replacement: $75,000 COMPLETE
Wentworth Warming House: Staff received three bids for this project. On June 6, the City Council
approved a contract with the low bidder in the amount of $58,800 to construct the new warming
house. Not included in the contract price is the new heater and the electrical quote. The City
Council approved a purchase order for the electrical work, which equaled $15,100. In addition,
the City will also need to pay the City building permit fees. Thus, the total project cost is estimated
to be $78,000. The new warming house will be ready by the 2023-2024 season.
Roger’s Lake Skate Park: The construction of the Skate Park base began on August 14. The
concrete was poured in the beginning of September and cured by the beginning of October. The
contractor has a few strips that they are in the process of removing and replacing. The features
will be delivered and installed in the Spring of 2024.
Wentworth Tennis Courts: Staff has submitted a grant application to the United States Tennis
Association (USTA) National and USTA Northern and received $30,000 in grant funding for this
project. Staff hosted a bid opening for the reconstruction of the two tennis courts at Wentworth
Park on August 9, with the low bid coming in at $118,800.
Once the project began, the metro area received over four inches of rain between September
23-25. When Bituminous Roadways removed the existing asphalt base of the tennis court they
discovered that the aggregate base was saturated and not suitable for paving. The contractor
dug down and further discovered there was approximately eight inches of aggregate base but
over a silty clay which had visible water coming up through it.
7c.14
On October 17 the City Council agreed to move forward a change order that included the
following: Add additional aggregate base with light weight equipment, pave a 2.5-inch base
course and assess in the spring. If dry enough, the remaining 1.5 inches of asphalt would be
paved. Ideally, the weight of the pavement would keep the water saturation of the base material
from continuing to be saturated. This option may result in a shortened life of the asphalt base if
there is movement during freeze/thaw cycles. The option increased the bid price by $18,000.
The Wentworth Park Tennis court was paved on October 31 with the first lift. The second lift will
not be paved until next spring. It will then have to cure for around 30 days before the acrylic can
be applied so the court is not likely to be open until early summer.
Marie Park Ice Rink LED Light Conversion
The City Council approved at the October 17 meeting the conversion of the Marie Park Ice Rink
lights to LED bulbs. The eight flood lights at the Marie Park Hockey Rink are currently high-
pressure sodium bulbs. Over the last year, the city has had a handful of bulbs that have needed
to be replaced and staff thought it was prudent to replace all eight bulbs within the facility to LED
bulbs prior to the winter skating season. The total cost of the project is $6,600.
Marie Park Pond Dredging
Included in the packet is the plan set for the Marie Park pond Dredging. This work is proposed
to be done this winter with final restoration in the spring. This is a large pond and the project is
estimated around $180,000. It will have noticeable changes as the project will also remove all
ash trees, buckthorn, and other undesirable vegetation which will open up the pond. The city
will replant trees next year and this may provide a location to add a bench overlooking the pond.
Special Park Fund Balance
Currently the Special Parks Fund is showing an estimated balance of approximately $442,000 as
of November 1, 2023:
Allocated Expenses for 2023:
• Dugouts at Valley, Victoria Highlands, and Civic Center: $53,574
• Skate Park Equipment Deposit: $108,938
• Valley View Heights Playground: $16,147
• Skate Park Concrete: $174,471
15
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CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
PROJECT LOCATION MAP
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PROJECT LOCATION
THE SUBSURFACE UTILITY INFORMATION IN THIS PLAN IS UTILITY QUALITY LEVEL D. THIS UTILITY QUALITY LEVEL WAS DETERMINED ACCORDING TO THE
GUIDELINES OF CI/ASCE 38-02, ENTITLED "STANDARD GUIDELINES FOR THE COLLECTION AND DEPICTION OF EXISTING SUBSURFACE UTILITY DATA."
GOPHER ONE CALL TICKET NUMBER: 232764164
APPROVED BYSHEET NO.DATE
PLAN REVISIONS
ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL LAWS AND ORDINANCES WILL BE
COMPLIED WITH IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF THIS PROJECT.
THIS PLAN SET CONTAINS 3 SHEETS
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS PLAN WAS PREPARED BY ME OR UNDER
MY DIRECT SUPERVISION, AND THAT I AM A DULY LICENSED PROFESSIONAL
ENGINEER UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA.
LICENSE NUMBER:DATE:MM/DD/2023 49170
JACOB H. NEWHALL, P.E., P.E.
SHEET
3
OF
WSB PROJ. NO. 023734-000
PROJECT LOCATION
MARIE POND
1
THIS PLAN SET HAS BEEN PREPARED FOR:
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
1101 VICTORIA CURVE
MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MN 55118
(651) 255-1850
A CALL TO GOPHER STATE ONE (651-454-0002)
IS REQUIRED A MINIMUM OF 48 HOURS PRIOR
TO PERFORMING ANY EXCAVATION.
EXCAVATION NOTICE SYSTEM
GOVERNING SPECIFICATIONS
UTILITY INFORMATION
THE 2020 EDITION OF THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION "STANDARD
SPECIFICATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION" SHALL GOVERN.
ALL TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES SHALL CONFORM TO THE LATEST EDITION OF THE
MINNESOTA MANUAL ON UNIFORM TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES, INCLUDING THE
LATEST FIELD MANUAL FOR TEMPORARY TRAFFIC CONTROL ZONE LAYOUTS.
E
ST
S
N
SCALE IN FEET
0
H:
800 1600
HORIZONTAL DATUM: NAD83
VERTICAL DATUM: NAVD88
CITY PROJ. NO. 2023-XXX
OUOVERHEAD UTILITY
PLAN SET INDEX
Sheet Number Sheet Title
1 TITLE SHEET
2 GRADING PLAN
3 MISC DETAILS
7c1.16
EEE
EE860861862863864
86086587085785885986186286386486686786886987187287386286
3
8
6
4 8658748738728718708698688678668658
6
0
8
5
6
8
5
7
8
5
8
8
5
9
8
6
1
8
6
2
86
3
86
4
SB SB-2
SB SB-1855854856857858859 855854856857858859855
854
856857858
859
27" River Birch,Good
50" River Birch,Good
15" River Birch,Good
12" Black Walnut,Good
10" American Elm,Fair
15" Green Ash,Dead or Dying
10" Siberian Elm,Fair
2" Hackberry,Good
23" Green Ash,Dead or Dying
7" Black Walnut,Good
10" American Elm,Poor
9" American Elm,Good
12" American Elm,Poor
8" American Elm,Fair
6" Swamp White Oak,Good
1" Pagoda Dogwood,Good
28" Boxelder,Fair
8" Black Walnut,Good
13" Black Walnut,Fair
21" Black Walnut,Fair
11" Black Walnut,Good
14" Black Walnut,Good
6" Green Ash,Poor
11" Boxelder,Poor
7" Green Ash,Poor
18" Green Ash,Good18" Black Willow,Fair
9" Siberian Elm,Fair
16" Boxelder,Poor
6" Green Ash,Good
7" Green Ash,Good
6" Green Ash,Fair10" Green Ash,Fair
6" Green Ash,Dead or Dying8" Green Ash,Fair
K:\023734-000\Cad\Plan\023734-000-C-GRAD-PLAN.dwg 10/20/2023 10:46:44 AMSCALE:
PLAN BY:
DESIGN BY:
CHECK BY:
SHEET
OF
WSB PROJECT NO.I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS PLAN, SPECIFICATION,OR REPORT WAS PREPARED BY ME OR UNDER MYDIRECT SUPERVISION AND THAT I AM A DULYLICENSED PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER UNDER THELAWS OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA.LIC. NO:DATE:REVISIONSNO.DATEDESCRIPTIONCLIENT PROJECT NO.MARIE PARK POND IMPROVEMENTSCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS023734-000
2023-___JACOB H. NEWHALL49170__/__/____3
AS SHOWN KJF
JHNCKJ
2
N
SCALE IN FEET
0
H:
30 60
GRADING PLAN
LOCATION
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION NOTES
LEGEND
CLASS III RIPRAP FIELDSTONE
PARCEL LINE
STABILIZED CONSTRUCTION
ENTRANCE. UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED,
RESTORE USING SEED MIX 25-131 (220
LBS/ACRE) WITH FERTILIZER TYPE 3 (350
LBS/ACRE) & TYPE 3 MULCH (2 TONS/ACRE)
WITH DISC ANCHOR.
EXISTING CONTOUR (MAJOR)1019
EXISTING CONTOUR (MINOR)1019
EXISTING STORM STRUCTURE
EXISTING STORM SEWER PIPE>>
PROPOSED CONTOUR (MAJOR)1019
PROPOSED CONTOUR (MINOR)1019
SEED MIX 33-261 (35 LBS/ACRE) WITH
FERTILIZER TYPE 4 (150LBS/ACRE), SEED
MIX 21-111 (100 LBS/ACRE), & CATEGORY
20 ROLLED EROSION PREVENTION
PRODUCT. TEMPORARY STABILIZATION:
TYPE 3 MULCH WITH DISC ANCHOR
APPROX. CONSTRUCTION LIMITS
PROPOSED STORM STRUCTURE
PROPOSED STORM SEWER PIPE>>
SB SOIL BORING LOCATIONS
TREE REMOVAL (INCIDENTAL TO
CLEARING AND GRUBBING PAY ITEM)
EXISTING DUCK HOUSE
K:\023734-000\Cad\Plan\023734-000-C-GRAD-PLAN.dwg 10/20/2023 10:46:44 AMREMOVE AND REPLACE
18" CMP FES.LILAC LANE1.CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DAMAGE TO STREETS, PARKING LOTS, CONCRETE
CURB AND GUTTER, TRAIL, AND TREES NOT SHOWN FOR REMOVAL.
2. AT A MINIMUM, DAILY STREET SWEEPING REQUIRED DURING HAULING OPERATIONS,
MORE OFTEN AS NEEDED OR DIRECTED BY THE ENGINEER.
3. ALL STOCKPILES MUST HAVE DOWN GRADIENT PERIMETER SEDIMENT CONTROL
IMPLEMENTED AND MAINTAINED AT ALL TIMES. STOCKPILES TO RECEIVE TEMPORARY
STABILIZATION IF UNWORKED FOR 7 DAYS
4. DEWATERING/DEICING TO TAKE PLACE PRIOR TO EXCAVATION AND SHALL BE COMPLETED
BY DECEMBER XX, 2024 OR AN ALTERNATE DATE AS APPROVED BY ENGINEER. ICE IS TO BE
STOCKPILED ON SITE AND PUT BACK IN POND FOLLOWING THE EXCAVATION AND IS
INCIDENTAL TO THE DEWATERING PAY ITEM. DEWATERING PLANS MUST BE SUBMITTED
AND APPROVED BY THE PROJECT ENGINEER 10 DAYS PRIOR TO PUMPING. PLANS MUST
INCLUDE OPERATIONS FOR PREVENTING THE DISCHARGE OF TURBID WATER, AND MUST
INCLUDE METHODS FOR CONTROLLING EROSION AND SCOUR.
5. CONTRACTOR SHALL PERFORM ALL DEWATERING AND EXCAVATION ONSITE AND OFF OF
ROADWAY, AND LOAD AND HAUL OUT USING ACCESS ROUTE.
6. CONTRACTOR TO GRADE AROUND EXISTING STORM SEWER STRUCTURES AS DIRECTED BY
THE ENGINEER.
7. CONTRACTOR TO COORDINATE ACCESS LIMITS WITH THE ENGINEER IN THE FIELD.
8. EXISTING POND CONTOURS DEVELOPED FROM PRE-DESIGN SURVEY.
9. CLEARING AND GRUBBING WILL BE REQUIRED FOR ACCESS AND TO COMPLETE
EXCAVATION WORK AS SHOWN. TREES PROPOSED TO BE REMOVED AS PART OF THE
PROJECT ARE SHOWN ON THE PLANS AND WILL BE INCIDENTAL TO THE CLEARING AND
GRUBBING PAY ITEM.
10. WORK ASSOCIATED WITH PROTECTING AND/OR REMOVING AND REINSTALLING FENCES,
STREET SIGNS, LAWN IRRIGATION SYSTEMS AND OTHER ITEMS SHALL BE CONSIDERED
INCIDENTAL TO THE PROJECT.
11. EXISTING DUCK HOUSES SHOULD BE PROTECTED OR REMOVED AND REPLACED DURING
POND EXCAVATION WORK (INCIDENTAL TO PROJECT).
18" PVC FES
INV: 860.02
PROTECT EXISTING LIFT
STATION AND UTILITY
BOXES (INCIDENTAL).
18" FES
INV: 859.10
REMOVE AND REPLACE
36" RCP FES.
INV: 858.12 (AS-BUILT)
PROTECT
EXISTING
GRILL
COORDINATE ACCESS WITH THE CITY
AND ENGINEER DURING CONSTRUCTION.
27" FES
INV: 859.00
15" FES
(BURIED)
SUPPLEMENT WITH 14 CY
CL III RIPRAP (FIELDSTONE).
5 CY CL III RIPRAP (FIELDSTONE).
CLEAR SEDIMENT AND
VEGETATION IN FRONT OF FES
REMOVE 3,015 CY OF
LEVEL 1 SEDIMENT.
REMOVE 6 ASH TREES
CLEAR WILLOW (NO GRUB).
REMOVE 1,407 CY OF
LEVEL 3 SEDIMENT.
REMOVE GREEN ASH TREE.
PROTECT WILLOW TREE.
REMOVE SIBERIAN ELM TREE.
PROTECT HACKBERRY TREE.
17
OVERLAP
LONGITUDINAL
JOINTS MINIMUM OF
6"
OVERLAP END JOINTS
MINIMUM OF 6" AND STAPLE
OVERLAP AT 1.5' INTERVALS.
ANCHOR TRENCH
(SEE DETAIL AND NOTES
BELOW)
STAPLE DENSITY SHALL BE A
MINIMUM OF 3 U-SHAPED 8",
11 GAUGE METAL STAPLES PER
SQUARE YARD (THIS MAY VARY
AS DIRECTED BY THE CITY).
ANCHOR TRENCH
1. DIG 6" X 6" TRENCH
2. LAY BLANKET IN TRENCH
3. STAPLE AT 1.5' INTERVALS
4. BACKFILL WITH NATURAL SOIL AND COMPACT
5. BLANKET LENGTH SHALL NOT EXCEED 100'
WITHOUT AN ANCHOR TRENCH
6"
6"
1' TO 3'
DI
R
E
C
T
I
O
N
O
F
SU
R
F
A
C
E
F
L
O
W
SCALE:
2
3
RIPRAP DETAIL FOR FLARED END SECTION
NO SCALESCALE:
1
3
FLARED END SECTION WITH TRASH GUARD
NO SCALE
SCALE:
3
3
EROSION CONTROL BLANKET INSTALLATION DETAIL
NO SCALE
K:\023734-000\Cad\Plan\023734-000-C-MISC-DTLS.dwg 10/20/2023 10:46:56 AM3
MISC DETAILS
SCALE:
PLAN BY:
DESIGN BY:
CHECK BY:
SHEET
OF
WSB PROJECT NO.I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS PLAN, SPECIFICATION,OR REPORT WAS PREPARED BY ME OR UNDER MYDIRECT SUPERVISION AND THAT I AM A DULYLICENSED PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER UNDER THELAWS OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA.LIC. NO:DATE:REVISIONSNO.DATEDESCRIPTIONCLIENT PROJECT NO.MARIE PARK POND IMPROVEMENTSCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS023734-000
2023-___JACOB H. NEWHALL49170__/__/____3
AS SHOWN KJF
JHNCKJ
18
DATE: November 14, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: Review Park System Master Plan Draft
INTRODUCTION:
The Commission’s number one budget priority for 2024 was the development of a Park System
Master Plan for Mendota Heights. Staff met with the Park System Master Plan Subcommittee to
review master plans from other cities to determine what should be included in the Request for
Proposals (RFP) for Mendota Heights. Staff built out a Park System Master Plan RFP draft for the
Commission to review.
BACKGROUND:
A Park System Master Plan is a common document found within cities and is used to complete
the following: Assess the current and future recreation needs of the community, establish a
long-range vision, determine gaps within the park system and reduce redundancy, provide
strategies to fill gaps, scientific community engagement which garners support, establish
priorities, potential for and promotion of partnerships, tool to be used for grant applications,
opportunities for the development of potential future park land, plan for park amenity life
cycle, align investment and budget with the community’s needs, and education of the public.
The proposed timeline for the project is as follows:
•November 14, 2023 Commission Review Draft RFP
•November 21, 2023 Staff Request City Council Approval to Release the RFP
•November 22, 2023-December 15, 2023 Consultants Submit Proposals
•December 18, 2023-January 3, 2024 Staff and Subcommittee Review Proposals
•January 9, 2024 City Council Approval of Consultant
Attachment: Park System Master Plan Draft RFP
DISCUSSION:
The commission should review the draft RFP and determine if there is anything included that
should be removed or if there is anything missing within the scope of the project. It is important
to note that the current budget for the project may not support all functions of the scope of the
project, so the project scope may need to be refined once proposals are received.
8a.19
BUDGET IMPACT:
Staff budgeted $75,000 for this project in the FY2024 budget and anticipates this project to be
funded from the Special Parks Fund. No costs for this project will be incurred prior to the
approval of a consultant’s contract which will take place in 2024.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff is confident the scope of the Master Plan RFP draft positively reflects the proposed goals
of this project and the gaps within the department’s needs.
ACTION REQUESTED:
If the commission concurs, it should, review the Master Plan RFP draft and formally recommend
approval of the issuance of the RFP to the City Council.
20
City of Mendota Heights
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Park System Master Plan
PROPOSAL DEADLINE: December 15, 2023 11:00am
Released: November 22, 2023
8a1.21
Section 1: General Information
Contract Administration
All correspondence regarding this RFP (Request for Proposals) and the proposed services must
be addressed to:
Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
Phone: 651-255-1354
Email: mlawrence@mendotaheightsmn.gov
Submission must be sent by email. One PDF copy of the proposal and any relevant attachments
should be sent to the mailing address above.
Due Date: December 15, 2023 at 11:00am
Anticipated Award of Contract: January 9, 2024
Target Deliverables Due Date: August 1, 2024
Acceptance of Proposals Contents
The contents of this RFP and the proposal will become contractual obligations if a contract
ensues. Failure of the consultant to meet these obligations may result in cancellation of the
award. All information in the proposal is subject to disclosure under the provisions of
Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13—Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.
Section 2: Project Overview
Project Overview and Purpose
The City of Mendota Heights is connected by its parks and recreational green space. Having a
variety of different neighborhood and community parks, along with larger recreational facilities
has allowed the city to create the feeling of a vibrant, healthy city while also maintaining a
personal experience with nature and outdoor activities. The City of Mendota Heights wants to
continue upon this foundation for its residents and visitors and foster a sense of community
that is fun, safe, and friendly.
This RFP outlines the nature and scope of the professional services requested for the
development of a Park System Master Plan for the City of Mendota Heights. The plan must
comprise of the following:
• Establish a clear, 15-year vision for Mendota Heights parks, open and public spaces to
ensure it is positioned to meet future community needs and is aligned with the
Mendota Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan
22
•Evaluate the existing park system features and amenities related to community need
and accepted national standards to identify where changes are warranted
•Evaluate the ways in which the residents are or are not currently served through access
to the City of Mendota Heights recreation services (keeping in mind that local
government entities also provide programming as well as private groups)
•Create an equity-based master plan which seeks balance in the park system to meet the
needs of Mendota Heights residents, businesses and stakeholders, considering usability,
access and differences in physical ability, race, age, income, housing status, language
and culture
•Develop a prioritization strategy to guide decision-making and investment in the city’s
park system
•Identify and prioritize park system needs, desires, and interests of the community today
and in the next 15 years based on anticipated demographic, economic and recreation
trends, preferences, and social changes
•Establish a detailed implementation program for achieving the plan’s vision including
identifying funding opportunities and gaps, anticipated needs for staff resources, and
producing high level cost-estimates for identified high-priority actions
•Consider the interrelation of the park system to transportation, housing, land use,
economic development, utilities and infrastructure, natural resources and public safety
•Involve robust community and stakeholder engagement as part of the process and find
ways to include underrepresented populations voices
Background
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 Community Golf Course. These contribute to
open space views and recreational opportunities for residents.
23
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 Community Golf Course. The City recently joined in partnership with other public
entities and purchased the 25.5 acre Oheyawahe area, which will be retained as open space.
Protection of the Oheyawahe area as an important Dakota site has been identified as a critical
issue for many residents within the City. Oheyawahe 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 Oheyawahe, in addition to the creation of an
interpretive plan for the site.
The City has 17 public parks throughout the community, including Oheyawahe. 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 poor funding and a lack of proactive planning.
Section 3: Scope of Work
Scope of Services/Tasks
The following is the general description of the tasks to be required of the consultant. A final
scope of services will be negotiated and finalized once a consultant is selected. In preparing a
proposal, the consultant is free to modify, revise, or otherwise amend the list of tasks to best
satisfy the requirements of the plan.
A.Assess Existing Park Conditions and Opportunities
City staff has developed an Asset Management Plan and Capital Improvement Plan. The
City of Mendota Heights would like a third party to review our asset management plan
to ensure it aligns with professional standards. A more expanded analysis of the
condition and opportunities is expected within this plan. The consultant will:
•Prioritize a list of improvements to parks and park amenities based upon an
agreed upon prioritization methodology
•Assess the functionality of the assets against projected 2040 needs and
community desires during the community engagement phase
•Prioritize future investment based on community needs and desires and current
conditions
•Review existing built infrastructure and make recommendations for improved
accessibility and universal access measured against National Recreation and Park
Association (NRPA) metrics
•Determine gaps in the park system and provide opportunities to fill the locations
that do not have a park within walking distance
24
•Review existing maintenance standards and schedule of identified and
unidentified deferred infrastructure maintenance-- provide recommendations on
prioritization
•Provide a concept plan for redevelopment opportunities at Mendakota Park,
which is the City’s flagship park that hosts many City and private events and
programs
B.Assess Existing Recreation Programs and Services and Forecast Future Opportunities
City staff has developed a robust number of recreation programming and services. A list
of programs, events, and services will be provided in addition to participation rates and
associated costs. The consultant will:
•Prioritize recreation services based upon agreed upon prioritization
methodology
•Assess the functionality of the recreation services and community desires based
off the community engagement phase
•Prioritize future investment of recreation services based on community need,
desires and current offerings
C. Community Engagement
The consultant team is expected to lead a robust and inclusive engagement process to
drive the development of the plan. Minimum expectations include:
•Meetings with City Officials: Meet a minimum of four times (two times with the
Park and Recreation Commission and two times with the City Council)
•Meetings with Stakeholders and Partners: Conduct coordinated meetings with
stakeholder groups and key partner agencies and organizations. The City will
provide a complete list of contact information for key stakeholders and assist in
meeting logistics and notifications
•Community Engagement: Lead and actively engage in community engagement
throughout the planning process. There should be many varied opportunities for
resident engagement and a plan to include underrepresented populations voices
is imperative
•City Staff and Project Team Coordination: Meet regularly with City staff
throughout the project to ensure tasks and activities are progressing in a timely
manner and to address issues and opportunities that arise
D.Funding Systems
The consultant team is expected to provide a roadmap for the successful funding of the
resulting initiatives and projects with the understanding that Mendota Heights has a
conservative tax base and park dedication fee revenue will not be a feasible funding
source in the future as the City is nearly fully developed.
25
•Review current and recommend future funding strategies related to the staffing,
operations, enhancement, and maintenance of the Park System
•Benchmark the City’s parks finances against other comparable park agencies,
broken into the following categories:
o Recreation
o Park Maintenance
o Park Capital Improvements
o Municipal Par 3 Golf Course
•Determine what strategic actions the City must take in order to meet financial
needs of the Park System in the future as defined in this new master plan
E.Implementation Plan
The Park System Master Plan will compile and summarize the findings regarding the
needs, desires, challenges, and opportunities of the community today and over the next
15 years based on anticipated demographic, economic, social, and recreational changes.
The Master Plan should provide clear goals, objectives, guiding principles and a vision
that will provide the framework for decision-making regarding development,
redevelopment, and enhancement of park and open space facilities and the provision of
recreational opportunities and services. The implementation plan is a critical component
of the Master Plan and will describe the, “what, when, and how” to achieve the vision,
goals and objectives. At a minimum the implementation plan should include:
•Prioritization Strategy: describes a process and criteria for prioritizing
investments and modifying practices including recommended priorities
regarding:
o Replacement, consolidation, and/or repurposing of facilities
o Parkland acquisition
o Changes to programs, events and services
o Changes to maintenance and required staffing (level of service)
o Integrating equity considerations in decision-making
o Improve sustainability of resources (natural, fiscal, and social) facilities
and operations
•Identify the highest priorities for investment as well as near, mid, and long-range
priorities
•Prepare cost estimates, including inflationary expectations based on market
studies, for high priority investments
•Assess the City’s staffing and funding levels in relation to regional averages and
comparative to cities of similar size in relation to parks and recreation. The
consultant will provide a budget and staffing analysis needed for current level of
service, an adequate level of service and a desirable level of service. The analysis
will also include funding and staffing requirements for future growth and
26
operation in line with priority recommendations. The Consultant will also
provide suggested funding strategies
Approach
The consultant is asked to keep in mind the following approaches as the plan is developed:
•Regional to Community to Neighborhood Focus: This project should consider the park
amenities outside of the City, but also within a reasonable distance from Mendota
Heights as potential amenities for residents of Mendota Heights to utilize. It is a goal of
the City of Mendota Heights to have parks and open space within a reasonable walking
and/or biking distance from every home. Somewhere between regional and
neighborhood amenities are community amenities—those that might require a longer
trip but are not economical to have as close to every home. What amenities are
reasonable to view as neighborhood amenities, community amenities, and regional
amenities? Where are the gaps in the community?
•Community Building Driven: This project should be driven by what the community needs
and wants, but recommendations should also consider the power of parks and
recreation amenities and services to build community by bringing people together.
•Future Focused: While the needs and wants of the community today are important, it is
also important to consider changing demographics and likely changes to demands as
those demographics’ changes. Twenty years ago, no one would have expected pickleball
to be as popular as it is today. What types of changes in demand do we expect because
of changing demographics as well as culture?
The City anticipates that this is a team approach between the consultant, the City organization,
and the community. The consultant is responsible for bringing expertise, new ideas and
challenging the old way of thinking. The preparation of the final deliverables will be the
responsibility of the consultant.
Final Document
The Plan should be in a reader-friendly document with an emphasis on maps, charts, photos,
graphics and tables to convey information rather than using lengthy text. The Plan should be
formatted in such a way that it is easy to update on a routine basis.
•Printed Material
o Seventeen printed copies of the final Park System Master Plan should be
provided to the City in the following format:
Spiral-bound book, with individual sections marked by label dividers
Printing to be double sided (back-to-back)
8.5” x 11” paper except for maps, charts, or diagrams that may be on
folded 11” x 17” paper
Color copies of pages including graphics, maps and photographs
27
•Electronic Materials
o The documents and graphics should be available in a digital format compatible
with the City’s software (e.g. Adobe Creative Suite package, ESRI GIS products,
MS Word). The final products, as well as all presentation materials (i.e. Power
Point presentations, maps, graphics, etc.) used throughout the planning process,
shall become property of the City of Mendota Heights, who shall have all-
inclusive rights for reproduction and distribution. The material will be provided
to the City via a secure file sharing website or via USB Flash Drive.
Section 4: Proposals
The proposal shall contain the type of information summarized below. Additional information is
allowable, provided it is directly related to the proposed project. The proposal should follow
the Table of Contents listed below. The four (4) sections of the proposal should be separated
using tabs.
1). Project Approach
2). Proposed Project Team and Experience
3). Schedule
4). Fee Quotation
1). Project Approach
Provide specific approaches and methods that will be utilized to complete this project as
outlined and to accomplish the work items listed under Section 3 of this RFP. Include
philosophy on designing improvements for parks. Explain why the consultant’s firm should be
selected to perform the services for this project.
2). Proposed Project Team and Experience
•Provide identification of the offering firm (s), including name, address and telephone
number of each firm
•List the name, title, address, email address, and telephone numbers of contact
person during period of proposal evaluation
•Provide history, years in business and background on the firm
•List any subcontracted professionals that will be used on the project
•Identify the key project team members and describe their specific roles on the
project
•Include resumes for key members of the project team
•Describe relevant experience and provide information on at least three (3) reference
projects completed in the last five (5) years
•Include specific descriptions of proposed team members’ roles on relevant projects.
Provide a contact name and information for each of the references
28
3). Schedule
Provide a proposed timeline with projected completion dates. The City’s expectation is to
complete the Master Plan by August, 2024.
4). Fee Quotation
Proposals shall include a total cost for completion of the project described that is based on an
hourly fee not to exceed the contract amount. The cost should include detailed estimates of the
number of hours to be worked by specific team members on each major (numbered) work item
under section 3 of this RFP. A cost estimate summary for each of the work items outlined in the
RFP shall also be included. The estimate shall clearly identify as additions, overhead, and
reimbursable expenses.
Submission of Proposal
Submission must be sent by email to mlawrence@mendotaheightsmn.gov One PDF copy of the
proposal and any relevant attachments should be sent to the mailing address above. Proposals
will be accepted until December 15, 2023 at 11:00am.
Section 5: Consultant Selection
Proposals will be reviewed and evaluated by City staff and the Parks and Recreation
Commission Master Plan Subcommittee on the basis of the following criteria:
•Consulting firm and key project staff experience with similar projects
•Proven track record in successfully completing similar projects on time and within
budget
•Successful experience of both the firm and the individual team members will be
considered
•Proposed approach to completing the project
•Components and details of the scope of the project
•Proposed fee
Following review of the RFPs by the City, staff will recommend a consultant to enter into a
contract with to the City Council. It is anticipated that a proposed contract will be brought to
the City Council for consideration at their January 9, 2024 meeting.
Section 6: Terms and Conditions
Upon selection of a Consultant, a contract shall be entered into by the City and Consultant. It is
expected that the contract will provide for compensation for actual hours expended on a not-
to-exceed basis. In addition:
1.Deletions of specific components, such as individual project meetings, will be at the
discretion of the City. Payment or reimbursement shall be made based on actual hours
worked on the various tasks required for the project plus necessary subcontractor work
29
(as applicable) and out of pocket expenses. Billing that exceeds the not to exceed will
not be compensated unless a contract extension has been approved by the City Council.
2.If, for any reason, a firm is not able to commence the services in that firm’s proposal
within 30 days of the award, the City reserves the right to contract with another
qualified firm.
3.The City shall not be liable for any expenses incurred by the Consultant prior to the
signing of a contract including, but not limited to, proposal preparation or final contract
negotiations.
4.The proposal must be signed in ink by an official authorized to bind the consultant to its
provisions. The proposal must include a statement as to the period during which the
proposal remains valid. This period must be at least 90 days from the date of the
proposal deadline.
5.The City shall retain ownership of all plans, maps, reports, models, and data prepared
under this proposal.
6.The City reserves the right to reject any and all proposals or to request additional
information from any or all consultants.
Section 7: Attachments
Consultants interested in submitting a proposal will be sent the following documents by
requesting them from Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager:
•Mendota Heights Parks Asset Management Plan
•Mendota Heights Capital Improvement Plan
•Mendota Heights Bike and Pedestrian Plan
•Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan
•Mendota Heights Natural Resource Management Plan
30
DATE: November 14, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: 2024 Fee Schedule Recommendation
INTRODUCTION:
Each year the City Council approves the fee schedule that will be used to assess fees for
services. Staff would like the Parks and Recreation Commission to review the City’s current
Parks and Recreation-based fees in order to make a recommendation to the City Council for
their December 21, 2023 meeting.
BACKGROUND:
The Mendota Heights Par 3 Community Golf Course fees were last amended to include a $1-
per-round increase in 2023 and the 10-round-pass was increased from $90 to $100 in 2019. In
2021, the City Council approved a new Senior Golf pass which was added to the fee schedule.
The Field and Facility fees were last amended in 2019. Staff’s estimate is that Picnic Shelter
rental fees have not been increased for approximately 10 years. The City Council last met to
review the Field and Facility Use Policy and Fees in conjunction with the user groups on October
18, 2022. At that meeting the consensus of the council was to keep the fees the same for 2023
as they were for 2022.
Tennis court fees were last amended in 2021, in which the fees changed from strictly an
application fee with unlimited play, to an hourly charge for use.
Canoe Rack Rental fees have not changed since the canoe racks were installed at Rogers Lake.
Attachments:
1. 2024 Draft Fee Schedule
2.Golf Fee Analysis of Comparable Courses
DISCUSSION:
Staff is recommending keeping the 2023 fees in place for the field and facility use fees, tennis
fees, picnic shelter fees, and canoe rack rental in 2024. The fees seem fair and somewhat in line
with neighboring cities fees.
8b.31
Staff is recommending a $1 per round increase for rounds of golf at the Mendota Heights Par 3
Community Golf Course. Many surrounding courses have increased their fees due to the cost of
supplies, equipment, and labor increasing over the last few years. Staff has included in the
packet a golf fee analysis that local Superintendents develop yearly to compare the prices of
other local comparable golf courses.
Staff is recommending increasing the 10-round pass from $100 to $110 and the Senior Golf Pass
from $200 to $220. In addition, increasing pull carts from $3 a round to $4 per round and gas
carts from $10 per round to $12 per round.
As for the Park Bench Donation fee, staff is recommending increasing the fee from $1,000 to
$1,500, which would cover half of the total costs of the donated bench and installation.
BUDGET IMPACT:
In reviewing wages for the Mendota Heights Par 3 Community Golf Course positions, staff is
recommending an increase due to market competitiveness. A $1 increase in round fees would
help to cover the proposed increased labor costs for 2024 and supply cost increases.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff is recommending a $1 increase for golf rounds at the Par 3 for 2024, an increase in the 10-
round-pass to $110 and an increase in the Senior Golf Pass to $220. Staff is recommending park
bench donation fees increase from $1,000 to $1,500. In addition, staff is recommending the
other fees included in the fee schedule remain the same for 2024, as they were 2023.
ACTION REQUESTED:
The commission should review the Parks, Recreation, and Par 3 Fee Schedule and make a
recommendation to the City Council for the 2024 fees.
32
Golf Course Survey
Par 3 Municipal Survey
(Completed October 2023)ParGreens Fee Weekend Holiday2nd nineSr. RateJr. RateHyland Bloomington (Forward Tees) 2022 27 $17.00 $17.00 $17.00 $13.00 $13.00
2023 $18.00 $18.00 same $14.00 $14.00
2024 same same same same same
Mendota Heights Par 3 2022 27 $12.00 $14.00 $6.00 $11/$13 $11/$13
weekday/weekend for seniors and juniors 2023 $13.00 $15.00 same $12/$14 $12/$14
weekday/weekend for seniors and juniors 2024
Theodore Wirth Par 3 1240 yards 2022 27 $13.00 $13.00 $9.00 $10.50 $10.50
2023 $14.00 $14.00 $9.00 $11.00 $11.00
2024 $15.00 $15.00 $9.00 $12.00 $12.00
Roseville Cedarholm 1342 yards *2022 27 $14.75 $15.25 $8.00 $13.75 $9.99
2023 $15.25 $15.75 $8.50 $14.25 same
2024 $15.75 $16.25 $9.00 $14.50 same
Brookview (Golden Valley) 1287 yards * 2022 27 $13.50 $13.50 $8.50 $10.50 $10.50
2023 $14.50 $14.50 $9.50 $11.50 $11.50
2024 $15.50 $15.50 $9.50 $12.50 $12.50
New Hope Municipal 1331 yards 2022 27 $15.50 $15.50 $9.00 $13.50 $9.50
Last increase in green fees was $0.50 in 2023 2023 $16.00 $16.00 $9.00 $14.00 same
2024 $17.00 $17.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00
Birnamwood 2022 27 $14.75 $15.50 50%off regular rate $13.50 $13.50
2023 $15.75 $16.50 same $14.50 $13.50
2024 $16.75 $17.50 same $15.65 $14.50
Centerbrook (City of Brooklyn Center)2022 27 $18.00 $18.00 $15.00 $15.00 $10.00
2023 $19.00 $19.00 same same same
2024 same same same same same
Area Executive Courses
Eagle Lake (Three Rivers Park District) 2022 31 $18.00 $18.00 same $18.00 $14.00
2023 same same same same same
2024 same same same same same
Brookland Golf Park (City of Brooklyn Park)2022 30 $15.50 $15.50 $5.00 $14.00 $13.00
2023 $16.50 $16.00 $6.00 $15.00 same
2024 same same same same same.$16.50 $6.00 $15.00
* Do not include tax
8b1.33
PARKS AND RECREATION
2023 2024
Application Fee Charged pPer
permit season for all
field / facility,
permit application
reservations.
Due upon
application.
Non-refundable.
$ 25
Concessions Building Reservation Food/beverage
license required
$25/event/day
Tennis Court Reservations $5/hour
Picnic Area/Shelter Resident $25
Resident Business $50
Non-Resident $50
Non-Resident
Business
$100
NOTE: Mendota Heights schools, city events, non-profit are fee exempt for Picnic Area/Shelter rental fees.
Picnic Table additional on-site $15/day
Canoe Rack Rental canoe storage @
Rogers Lake Park
$50/summer
Park Bench Donation $1,000/bench $1,500/bench
PAR-3 GOLF
Footgolf $8/round
Greens Weekday
Juniors, Seniors
$12/round $13/round
Weekday $13/round $14/round
Weekend/Holiday
Juniors, Seniors
$14/round $15/round
Weekend/Holiday $15/round $16/round
Senior Pass Excludes golf cart $200/year $220/year
10-Round Pass $100 $110
Pull Cart Rental $3/round $4/round
Power Cart Rental $10/round $12/round
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8b2.34
RINKS
2023
Ice Rink Reservation Priority 3 $4/hour/rink
Priority 4 $6/hour/rink
Priority 5 $4/hour/rink
Priority 6, 7 $8/hour/rink
FIELDS
Reservation - tournament Priority 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
baseball, softball,
soccer, football,
lacrosse
$50/day/field
Reservation - non-tournament Priority 3
baseball, softball,
soccer, football,
lacrosse
$7/player/season
Priority 4, 5 $10/player/season
Priority 6, 7 $15/hour/field
Preparation - non-tournament $35/field/day
Preparation - tournament Priority 3, 4
Required
$35/field/day
Preparation - tournament Priority 5, 6, 7
Optional
$35/field/day
Drying Agent No Charge, included in
Preparation fee
35
DATE: November 14, 2023
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: Parks and Recreation Strategic Planning Update
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Included is the planning calendar that staff is utilizing to ensure progress. Each month staff will
provide an update on the strategic planning calendar.
RECOMMENDATION:
Informational Only.
9a.36
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
The City Council (and two commissioners atended) met in June
to learn the poten�al funding op�ons moving forward for the
City for items including Parks and Recrea�on.
Finalize Sponsorship, Dona�on, Naming Rights, Legacy
Program Policy
Sustainable Funding Source
for Parks and Recrea�on
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager
Staff will be seeking direc�on from the Council on this topic at
the November Council work session.
Work with businesses (Village and Plaza) for Event
Engagement
A Leading Community with
Invested Partners
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager/Recrea�on
Program Coordinator
The Cupid’s Valen�ne Crawl event was held in February, 2023.
The Concert in the Park Series took place this Spring, Summer
and early Fall. Trick or Teeing included businesses handing out
candy at the holes.
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
The City of West Saint Paul has signed a contract with Mend
Consul�ng for their Parks System Master Plan. Included in their
plan is a feasibility study for a community center. Results are
an�cipated in the next few months. Staff atended a focus
group and is looking at a community survey.
Host Joint Work Session with Natural Resource
Commission
Greater Connec�on to the
Natural Environment
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager
A joint work session was held on March 22.
Create Trail CIP Program Greater Connec�on to the
Natural Environment
Public Works Director Staff is working to create some maps for this project as a visual.
The Trail CIP should be available for distribu�on to the
Commission this Fall.
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
Staff hosted a bike fix-it clinic to be on Wednesday, September
20 from 5:30 PM- 6:30 PM at Market Square Park called “Cycles
& Cider.”
Update Trail Maps to Be More Accessible A Safe, Connected, Walkable
and Bikeable Community
Parks and Recrea�on
Manager/Senior
Engineering Technician
The Senior Engineering Technician has received the necessary
informa�on from the Parks and Recrea�on Manager and is
pu�ng finishes touches on this to launch.
Increase Senior Programming Vibrant and Diverse
Community Programming
Recrea�on Program
Coordinator
First ever Coffee, Cards and Cribbage series was hosted in
January and February, 2023 and will take place this Winter. The
Summer Adult Walking group took place this Summer. An Adult
Pain�ng Group will take place this Fall and Winter.
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
Staff has completed a Parks CIP, which was reviewed at work
sessions in May and July.
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
Signs have been delivered and will be installed this Fall as �me
allows for Public Works.
Con�nue Community Engagement Mee�ngs Effec�ve Two-Way
Communica�on with an
Informed Community
Parks and Recrea�on
Commissioners
Chair Blanks and Vice Chair Muller have determined that they
are not moving forward with organized community
engagement for 2023.
9a1.37