1993-08-10 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, ;INNESOTA
AGENDA
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
AUGUST 10, 1993 - 6:30 P.M.
** 6:30 o'clock p.m. **
1. Call to Order.
2. Roll Call.
3. Approval of July 13, 1993 Parks and Recreation
Minutes.
Commission
4. Recommendation to Council on Bridge and Culvert Project
* Valley and Wentworth Parks - Cost Estimates
5. Capital Improvement Planning for Park System
* Discussion of CIP Funding
* Discussion of Ivy Hills Park
* Discussion of Wentworth Park
* Discussion of Parking Study Requested by Council
6. Request to Dedicate Civic Center Field
* In Honor of Richard "Jake" Grauman, Korean
Veteran
7. Review of Proposed Parks Budget for 1994
8. Verbal Updates
* Kensington Park - Soccer Fields -
* Celebrate Mendota Heights Parks!
* Summer Adventure 1992
* Soo Line Trail - City of Lilydale
* ISTEA Conference
9. Adjourn.
Progress Report
Concerns
War
Auxiliary aids for disabled persons are available upon request
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, however, this may not be possible
on short notice. Please contact City Administration at
452-1850 with requests.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
JULY 13, 1993
The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation
Commission was held on Tuesday, July 13, 1993 in the City Hall
Large Conference Room, 1101 Victoria Curve. The meeting was called
to order at 6:35 o'clock P.M. The following members were present:
Kleinglass, Libra, Damberg and Linnell. Commissioners Norton, Katz
and Spicer were excused. Also present were Administrative
Assistant Kevin Batchelder and Parks Project Manager Guy Kullander.
Guests were Keith Campbell of Sibley STING Soccer Program.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Kleinglass moved to approve the June 8, 1993,
Minutes.
Commissioner Linnell seconded the motion.
AYES: 4
NAYS: 0
KENSINGTON PARK SOCCER FIELDS
Administrative Assistant Batchelder introduced this item by
stating he had received memos and letters from Mend -Eagan
Soccer and Sibley STING Soccer regarding the new soccer fields
at south Kensington Park. Batchelder referred the Parks
Commission to a letter that the City had received signed by 36
families involved in the Sibley Sting Soccer Program regarding
their concerns with the new fields and the power lines at
Kensington Park. Batchelder stated he had met with
Commissioner Libra and Mr. Keith Campbell of Sibley Sting to
discuss their concerns and to provide some information on the
landscaping and construction of the park. Batchelder stated
it was his understanding that the primary concern of the
soccer groups is to maintain the size of the fields and
maximize the size of the fields in the park. Batchelder
stated the soccer groups desired toaddress the issues which
might inhibit or reduce the size of the fields. Batchelder
stated these issues were: 1) the location of the power lines;
2) landscape screening for stray soccer balls; and 3) proper
grading and drainage for safe play.
Batchelder reminded the Commission that on January 21, 1992
the City Council had earmarked $25,000 of Referendum money to
move the power lines, if experience deemed it to be necessary.
Batchelder stated the soccer groups were concerned that
competing projects may extinguish the Referendum money before
the power line issue could be revisited.
Parks and Recreation Commission
July 13, 1993
Page 2
Commissioner Libra stated that as a Parks Commissioner he is
continuing to see funding commitments and was concerned about
what the final Referendum money would be spent for. Libra
stated the soccer groups have been visiting the field and it
looks like it will become a great facility for Mendota
Heights. Libra stated he had discussed some of the fine
tuning of the fields with City staff including drainage,
grading and seeding. Libra stated there were two primary
items that concerned the soccer groups. One being the
townhouses on the western border which may be at risk from
stray soccer balls hitting the windows. Libra stated it would
be an unfortunate incident if the homeowners sue individual
soccer players for broken windows and wants to avoid these
problems if possible. Libra stated he believes the
landscaping currently in place will ultimately provide
adequate screening but it is many years away from maturing to
that point.
Libra stated the other primary concern was the power lines and
after reviewing the issue with City staff he understood that
City Council's intent was to revisit the soccer field/power
line issue after a year of experience on the fields.
Commissioner Libra stated ,the soccer groups were interested in
getting a commitment from the City to review this issue and to
hold onto the earmark money for another year.
Commissioner Libra stated the soccer groups do not believe
there is a real need to make a decision at this point in time
to spend or not spend the money and that it would be
reasonable to wait for a season and examine the power line
issue at that time. Libra felt that instead of lobbying for
a decision on expenditure of this money that it was his intent
to present this information to the Parks and Recreation
Commission for their awareness and so the City Council could
see that this item had been discussed at the Park meeting.
Mr. Keith Campbell addressed the Parks and Recreation
Commission and stated it is his primary objective to maintain
full size soccer fields at Kensington Park. Mr. Campbell
stated the result of smaller soccer fields are more physical
games that the kids do not enjoy as much. He stated the
larger sized fields are needed for those children seventh
grade and up to enjoy a less physical game. Mr. Campbell
stated the soccer fields look like they are coming in as
really nice fields and he is worried that limitations might
reduce the size of the fields. Mr. Campbell stated the soccer
groups felt that they need these two full sized fields as
originally planned.
Parks and Recreation Commission
July 13, 1993
Page 3
Mr. Campbell stated the field on the east side of the park
could be moved further to the east if the power lines were
raised and then this would provide some cushioning between the
two fields. Mr. Campbell stated approximately 200 soccer
coaches held a rules meeting at the beginning of the year and
that if Mendota Heights had a house rule regarding replay of
any soccer balls that hit the power lines this would be
embarrassing. Mr. Campbell stated he is hoping at this point
that the fields will work and that corner kicks will not be
affected by the power lines. He stated his young son had
practiced corner kicks underneath the power lines . and that
three kicks had gone over the wire and seven kicks had gone
under the wire out of the ten kicks tried. Mr. Campbell
reiterated his objective of receiving some commitment - from the
City to maintain the fields at these large sizes and to
revisit the raising of the power line issue and earmarking the
money.
Commissioner Damberg stated when money is earmarked through a
Parks and Recreation Commission recommendation and City
Council approval it is a promise that that money will be
there. Commissioner Damberg stated she was willing to re-
emphasize the Parks Commission's commitment to earmarking the
$25,000 at Kensington Park. Commissioner Kleinglass inquired
if there was a danger to the kids with soccer balls hitting
the power lines. Parks Project Manager Kullander stated there
is no danger to children and that NSP has stated that a soccer
ball will not cause any electrical concerns or mechanical
concerns as far as the power lines.
Batchelder stated that he had begun contacts with Mr. Dan
Blake, of Centex Homes, to discuss additional screening along
the western edge of the soccer fields on the townhome
property. Parks Project Manager Kullander stated he
identified those areas on the field that need additional fill
and re -seeding and a contractor will work on this when the
fields are dry enough to support heavy equipment. The
Commission discussed screening, along the western boundary of
the soccer fields.
Commissioner Kleinglass moved to recommend that City Council
reconfirm their commitment to earmark $25,000 to raise the
power lines if deemed necessary after a year's play on these
fields, to keep the fields as large as possible, and to
explore screening options around the soccer fields.
Commissioner Damberg seconded the motion.
AYES: 4
NAYS: 0
Parks and Recreation Commission
July 13, 1993
Page 4
Commissioner Damberg stated the City of Mendota Heights has
done a lot for the baseball and softball groups in the town
and that the City needs to support the soccer groups.
BRIDGE AND CULVERT PROJECT
VALLEY AND WENTWORTH PARKS
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated this item had been
discussed at the May and June Parks and Recreation Commission
meetings after staff proposed to construct a new bridge in
Valley Park and to replace three bridges with culverts in
Wentworth Park. Batchelder stated the Commission was
concerned with the funding of this proposal and directed staff
to look at alternatives. Batchelder stated City park crews
and the Parks Project Manager feel these bridges are not safe
and represent a higher level of liability. He also stated
that as wood structures they are targets for vandalism and are
an ongoing maintenance problem. Batchelder stated the Parks
crews can only make temporary improvements to the current wood
bridges and this needs to be done on a continuing basis.
Commissioner Libra inquired if it was possible for the City to
fund the Valley Park bridge in 1993 and to do the Wentworth
culverts in 1994. Parks Project Manager Kullander responded
affirmatively. Commissioner Libra stated he feels two of the
three bridges at Wentworth could be replaced with culverts and
it would be nice to have one bridge installed for its
aesthetic value. Libra stated he believes the bridge in
Valley Park was recently hit by a vehicle and damaged.
Commissioner Linnell stated some neighbors had indicated a
desire to keep one of the crossings in Wentworth Park as a
bridge. Kullander estimated it would could approximately
$5, 000 to do an eight foot (8' ) wide bridge in Wentworth Park.
The Parks Commission discussed maintenance and efficiency in
Wentworth Park.
Commissioner Libra stated that ultimately these bridges should
be replaced and the concern was whether it was done this year
or next or at some time in the future. Libra stated we need
to maintain these items -in the park in order to provide an
appropriate level of service. •Kullander stated the $25,000
represented in the Budget for 1993 was a rough estimate to
complete this project.
Commissioner Damberg opened a discussion on the need to retain
the Special Parks Fund. Damberg stated there were lots of
projects on the horizon and the Parks Commission had to
balance this with the need to maintain the parks system. She
stated that maintenance items should be funded through the
Parks and Recreation Commission
July 13, 1993
Page 5
City's General Fund and allocated through a Capital
Improvements Plan.
The bridge in Valley Park was discussed. The Commission
discussed the appropriateness of using the Special Park Fund
to pay for the bridge in Valley Park. The Commission desired
that Parks Project Manager Kullander look at the cost
difference between bridges and culverts at Wentworth Park.
The Commission directed Parks Project Manager Kullander to get
detailed specifications and quotes for construction of bridges
and culverts at Valley and Wentworth Parks fbr recommendation
to the City Council at their August meeting.
IVY PARK POND
Parks Project Manager Kullander introduced this item by
stating the Parks and Recreation Commission had been presented
an overview of the Ivy Falls Stormwater Project in March by
Assistant City Engineer Klayton Eckies. Kullander stated at
that time the Commission had requested that he bring back some
landscaping and aesthetic recommendations around the new pond.
Kullander stated the new pond will be deeper than the old pond
and that during peak storm events this pond is designed to
have the capacity of holding. 11 acre feet of stormwater.
Kullander stated during storm events the pond would be
significantly larger than the existing pond but only for a
short period of time. He stated the normal volume in the pond
will be approximately one acre feet of water. Kullander
described those areas where trees would be removed and
replaced. Kullander described the trail realignment.
Kullander described his proposed landscape plan including the
relocation of six trees and the planting of twelve new trees
out of the contract. Kullander stated the relocated trees
will be placed in the open area along the trail. He stated
the berm would be approximately 10 feet high and would have a
3:1 slope and probably should not have too many trees on it as
they would create obstacles for the City mowers. Kullander
showed some areas that could include benches on concrete pads
and_picnic tables. He stated it would cost approximately
$1,000 to do a wildflower project on the berm. Kullander
stated wildflowers would need to be mowed once a year in the
Fall and would need to be burned every other Spring and
possibly re -seeded on an occasional basis and that this berm
area is approximately one acre.
Parks and Recreation Commission
July 13, 1993
Page 6
Kullander stated the benches and picnic areas are extraneous
to the stormwater project and would need to be funded from the
Special Park Fund if the Commission desires to have those
extras. Commissioner Damberg felt that if no one was
requesting these extra amenities, the Commission should wait
until it receives those types of requests and then can look at
funding those types of amenities in the future.
Parks Project Manager Kullander described a swale project that
would help the drainage on the ballfield in Ivy Park.
Kullander stated this project could be done by City crews in
the Fall.
Commissioner Libra was excused at 7:35 o'clock P.M.
Commissioner Linnell stated he likes the idea of wildflowers
on the berm but he would like to see some trees planted on the
berm, especially Burr Oak trees as they would do well on the
berm. Kullander stated three of the twelve trees could go on
the southern edge. Commissioner Linnell inquired if cattails
would be planted around the new pond. Kullander stated the
black dirt and sediment from the pond area will be saved to be
used around the final grade of the pond area and that this
would re-establish the cattails in the new pond. The
Commission directed Parks Project Manager Kullander to proceed
with the proposed landscape plan that would include six trees
being moved and nine balled and burlap trees to be located
along the trail on the east side of the park. This
recommendation also requests that three Burr Oak trees be
planted on the south slope of the berm at fifty foot (50')
spacing and approximately ten feet (10') above the toe of the
slope. This request also includes the planting of wildflowers
from the existing trail westerly to its connection to the
existing berm a distance of two hundred feet (200') and
approximately one acre in size.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN
FOR THE PARK SYSTEM
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated at their June
meeting the Parks Commission provided staff with some ideas
that might be incorporated into a Capital Improvements Plan
and requested that staff begin work on putting together a
Capital Improvements Plan that would be comprehensive for the
City's park system. Batchelder stated that such a plan would
have to look at the whole park system, to look at desired new
facilities, facilities that would need to be replaced and
facilities that would be needing maintenance in the near
future. Batchelder stated such a project would need to
project for a five or ten year period, all the capital
Parks and Recreation Commission
July 13, 1993
Page 7
improvements needed in the park system and identify the
funding source and identify the project year. Batchelder
stated in his memo he had proposed a planning schedule for a
thorough review of the capital improvement needs of the park
system and this proposed schedule will take to approximately
next April to complete. He stated the Commission could then
individually review each park, trail system and the City's
open space system with an end product being a complete plan
that would project capital improvements over five to ten year,
identify funding sources and schedule priorities.
Commissioner Damberg stated it would be important for the
Commission to have a thorough discussion of the intent and
purpose of the Capital Improvements Plan and that City Council
will have to think about maintaining the Special Park Fund if
it is desired that this be the ,primary funding source for
capital improvements.
The Commission discussed Americans with Disability Act
improvements, seal coating trails, and other anticipated
capital improvements. The Commission directed staff to
proceed with the schedule for the planning of a Capital
Improvements Plan for the City park system and to begin this
at the August meeting.
VERBAL UPDATES
Administrative Assistant Batchelder passed around a Mend -Eagan
Baseball Association brochure from the Thirteen Year Old
Baseball Tournament held at Mendakota Park on June 5th and
6th. He stated this program included a nice note of
recognition to the City and staff involved in putting on this
tournament. Batchelder stated the Celebrate Mendota Heights
Parks! planning was reaching a feverish peak. Batchelder
invited all of the Parks and Recreation Commission members to
attend the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony that would be held at
Kensington Park at 11:30 A.M. on July 24th.
Batchelder distributed a Dakota County Resolution on the Pilot
Knob Road trail funding that includes funding for a bike trail
section from Mendota Heights Road north along Pilot Knob Road
to the intersection of the newly realigned Trunk Highway 13.
Batchelder stated this new section would connect the City
trail system to the proposed Soo Line railroad trail. He also
stated the County is looking at reevaluating the safety of the
off road trails from Northland Drive south into Eagan and that
there would be a connection of the new Pilot Knob trail to the
regional trail corridor. Batchelder stated the County hopes
to do this with 1994 Capital Improvement Program funding.
Parks and Recreation Commission
July 13, 1993
Page 8
Batchelder stated the City Council had asked the Parks
Commission to review the parking in the park system throughout
Mendota Heights. Batchelder also stated that at the last
Council meeting City Council had discussed the acquisition of
the Burows farm and had decided that due to the number of
serious liability concerns it would be better for a non-profit
organization such'as the Dakota County Historical Society to
be the title holder of this property. Batchelder stated, in
concept, the City -believes the non-profit should hold title to
the property, consent to the filing of an irrevocable
conservation easement across the entire property, agree to
maintain the subject structure and grounds in a safe and
historically sensitive manner and agree to open the property
to the public and provide interpretive programs to visitors
explaining the historical significance of the Burows
farmstead. He stated the City would remain willing to
financially support the preservation of this property.
COMMISSION COMMENTS
Commissioner Kleinglass inquired if the Victoria Road/Highway
13 trail is going to be completed this Summer. Parks Project
Manager Kullander stated'the contract time frame had been
extended on this project and that it is being delayed due to
the wet weather. Commissioner Damberg stated she feels a
striped crosswalk across Victoria at Highway 13 would be
necessary. Kullander stated this crosswalk will be striped
and maintained by the State of Minnesota.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the Parks and Recreation
Commission adjourned at 8:40 o' clock P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Kevin Batchelder
Administrative Assistant
To:
From:
Subject:
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
MEMO
August 5, 1993
Parks and Recreation Commission
Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assi
Recommendation to Council on Bridge and Culvert Project
Valley and Wentworth Parks
DISCUSSION
At the July meeting, the Commission reconsidered the proposed
Bridge and Culvert project in Valley and Wentworth Parks. The
Commission directed Parks Project Manager Kullander to examine the
cost differences between bridges and culverts and to provide
detailed specifications and quotes for a recommendation to City
Council.
Parks Project Manager Kullander will be present on Tuesday
evening to present the detailed specifications, costs and quotes.
ACTION REQUIRED
Acknowledge presentation on proposed Bridge and Culvert
Project for Valley and Wentworth Parks and make a recommendation to
City Council.
CITY OF MENDOT.. HEIGHTS
MEMO
August 5, 1993
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Ass nt
Subject: Capital Improvement Planning for Park System
DISCUSSION
At the July meeting, the Commission began discussions on
thorough review of the City's park system and its capital
improvements, infrastructure and replacement needs. Anticipated
projects and funding sources were discussed including the CIP's
relationship to the Special Parks Fund. An anticipated schedule to
review each park was approved and this month marks the first
meeting in which individual parks will be, reviewed.
Ivy Hills Park and Wentworth Park will be the individual parks
that will be reviewed for maintenance, capital improvements and
replacement. The Commission should also review their preliminary
discussion on CIP funding.
We had hoped to have detailed maps of each of these parks
prepared in time to deliver with the agenda packets this weekend,
however, they are not yet ready. We will have these maps ready for
Tuesday evening with a list of each facility or infrastructure
component so that we may thoroughly review these items.
In addition, City Council has requested that the Parks and
Recreation Commission review the parking situation for each park
and this can be accomplished as we go through the CIP process.
DISCUSSION
Review the infrastructure and the capital improvement needs
for Ivy Hills Park and Wentworth Park, discuss funding and parking
and provide directions to staff.
PROPOSED PLANNING SCHEDULE FOR PARKS -CIP
July 13, 1993
1. July Commission Meeting -
2. August Commission Meeting -
3. Sept. Commission Meeting -
4. October Commission Meeting
5. Nov. Commission Meeting -
6. Dec. Commission Meeting -
7. Jan. 1994 Commission Mtg.
8. Feb. Commission Meeting -
9. March Commission Meeting -
10. April Commission Meeting -
Discuss Special Park Fund
Discuss Anticipated Projects
Discuss Planning Schedule
Review Ivy Hills Park
Review Wentworth Park
Review Marie Park
Review Victoria Highlands Park
Review Valley Park
Review Mendakota Park
Review Rogers Lake Park
Review
Review
Review
Review
Friendly Hills Park
Friendly Marsh Park
Friendly Tot Lot
Copperfield Ponds
Review Hagstrom-King Park.
Review Kensington Park
Review Sibley Park
Review Civic Center Park
Review Valley View Hts. Tot Lot
Review Trail System
Review City Owned Open Space
Review Preliminary CIP Plan
Direct Staff to draft Final Plan
Recommend Plan to City Council
PARK SYSTEM ANTICIPATED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN
July 13, 1993
PARKS Cost Year
1. Ballfield Lights $150,000
Mendakota Park
2. Netting at Mendakota Park $ 15,000
3. Tennis Courts $ 40,000
Hagstrom-King Park
4. Drinking Fountains $ 7,500 apiece
7 neighborhood parks
5. Sand Volleyball Court $ 3,000 to 1994
Mendakota Park 6,000
6. Port-a-pottie Enclosures $ 2,000 apiece
7. ADA Updates ?.
8. Expanded Parking/Landscaping $ 10,000
Ivy Park Addition
9. Horseshoe Pits $ ?
TRAILS
1. Bridge and Culvert Replacement $ 25,000 1993
2. Rest stops, benches, overlooks $ 350 apiece
3. New Trail segments $ referendum
MAINTENANCE PROJECTS
1. Wildflower Projects $ 500 annually
2. Trail improvements
3. Tennis Court Resurfacing
4. Warminghouses
currently budgeted for
$ 7,000 (2 courts each year
beginning in 1998)
$ ? 1998
Mendota Heights
Parks System
Chic Center
Leringon & Trunk Highway 110
Friendly Hills
Pueblo Lane & Apache
Friendly Marsh
Cheyenne lane
Hatginal Kind
Mendota Magda Road, Eut el Huber Drive
Ivy Hills Park
Butler Avenue & Maple Perk WV!
Kaubasica
Sbxkleidste & OXIONd Way
Maris Park
Between Victoria & Loingten
Mendakots Park
Dodd Road & Mendakota Drive
Rogers Lake
Wagon Wheel Mg
Sibley Park
Mark & Delaware berme
Valley Park
Fad of 1-35E on Merle Avenue
Victorla Highlands
llktarb & Douglas Road
Wentworth
Wentworth Avenue
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
MEMO
August 5, 1993
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrati
Subject:
DISCUSSION
Request to Dedicate Civic Center
stant
Field
At its March and April meetings, the Parks and Recreation
Commission discussed a request by Mr. Daniel O'Keefe to name a park
or a field after Richard (Jake) Grauman, a Korean War Veteran
missing -in -action. At the April meeting, the Commission
recommended and adopted a policy of Guidelines for the Dedication
of Park Fields and Facilities. (Please see attached Guidelines.)
The Parks and Recreation Commission, in March, directed staff
to pursue the Sibley Varsity Baseball Field as the first option for
dedication and that the second priority would be a City Softball
Field. (Please see attached March and April minutes.)
Mr. O'Keefe pursued the dedication of the Sibley Varsity
Baseball Field with the School Board and was unsuccessful. Mr.
O'Keefe desires to pursue the second priority, a City Softball
field, and following discussions with staff, is making a request to
name the Civic Center Field in honor of Richard E. Grauman. (See
attached letter from Mr. O'Keefe.)
On August 5, 1993 we received a letter from Jack Loss, Acting
Superintendent, offering to discuss the issue with City officials
regarding the whole Sibley Complex and its dedication. (Please see
attached letter.)
Mr. O'Keefe has indicated that Jake's old division, the 3rd
Infantry Division, is holding its annual convention in September in
Bloomington and he is hopeful that the City will act soon on his
request to name Civic Center Field. This would allow him to begin
arrangements for a bronze plaque and to make plans with the 3rd
Infantry Division's convention.
ACTION REQUIRED
Consider the options of naming Civic Center Field in honor of
Richard E. Grauman or pursuing the School District's offer to
continue discussions on Sibley Park Complex. Make a recommendation
to City Council.
August 5, 1993
Parks and Recreation Commission
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, Minnesota 55118
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Commission,
We met with Commission members in April seeking approval for naming a
new ball field after a still Missing -in -Action citizen soldier of the
Korean War, Richard E. "Jake" Grauman. Sergeant Grauman lived at 1031
Ottawa Avenue. The Commission unanimously approved the request
suggesting the varsity field at Sibley High School as a most
appropriate first choice. In a later public action the Mendota Heights
City Council also unanimously approved this plan. Naming that
particular field would also require approval from the District 197
School Board. I brought this matter to the attention of the School
Board where, in my earnest opinion, it was met with a marked degree of
reluctance on the part of the entire Board. Mr. Niemeyer, the School
Board Chairman, advised my wife and I that he could get no one on the
Board to make such a motion let alone anyone on the entire board to
second any such motion.
My feeling in the matter is that neither "Jake" nor I would want the
naming of a field after him and his sacrifice for us forced upon
anyone. With this in mind I would like to pursue the alternative of
naming a second community field after Sgt. Grauman. That of the Civic
Center Field as suggested by Mr Batchelder. I believe "Jake" would
feel more comfortable being attached to something where he was wanted
by everyone involved. "Jake" is the only still'missing-in-action
soldier of the Korean War who lived in Northern Dakota County and in
what is now School District 197. The Park Commission, Mayor
Mertensotto and the Council recognized this uniqueness, the School
Board, unfortunately, did not.
Of interest is that the 3rd United States Infantry Division, of which
"Jake" was a member of Fox Company, 7th Regiment, is holding their
National Convention in Bloomington, Minnesota the latter part of
September. I have been advised that the naming of this park for one
of their former fallen members is of great interest to them and they
have asked I advise them of progress in this matter. A field
dedication to coincide with their convention would be a most beautiful
event and they are awaiting word of your decision so plans might be
made to participate.
Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
Highest Re ards,
Daniel E. an. iria S. O'Keefe
745 Pontiac Place
Mendota Heights, Minnesota 55120
612 454 1110
GUIDELINES FOR THE DEDICATION OF PARR FIELDS AND FACILITIES
April 200 1993
PURPOSE
The City of Mendota Heights recognizes that it is necessary to
adopt guidelines for the proper disposition of requests by
individuals or organizations to dedicate or commemorate parks or
park facilities in the honor of individuals (or groups). The
purpose of these guidelines is to establish the process, procedures
and criteria for the consideration of these requests.
PROCESS
A formal request in writing shall be addressed to the Parks
and Recreation Commission. This written request should be
accompanied by supporting documents and should be delivered to the
Secretary of the Parks and Recreation Commission a minimum of ten
days prior to the next regularly scheduled Commission meeting.
City Council approval is necessary for the dedication of any
parks or park facilities. City Council will consider requests for
dedication of park facilities following a recommendation by the
Parks and Recreation Commission.
In the case of Sibley Park, or any other joint City/School
District park or facility, approval by the School District and the
City Council is necessary. It is the applicant's responsibility to
obtain any approvals required by the School District.
POLICY
The City's approval of requests for park dedications in honor
of individuals (or groups) should only occur after consideration of
the criteria as established below.
CRITERIA
The following criteria is established as the standard under
which dedications in honor of individuals (or groups) will be
considered for park and park facilities:
1. It is the objective of the City that any dedication in honor
of an individual should be based on meritorious service,
commitment or contribution to the community, City, State or
Country.
2. It is the objective of the
dedications should reflect
contributions made including
social contributions.
City that, on the whole, these
a diversity in the types of
historical, civic, military, or
3. It is the City's objective not to rename City parks which are
already well known and identified by such well known names
throughout the community. This is in keeping with the City's
past practice of naming parks after the neighborhoods or
streets where they are located.
4. It is the City's objective to name only those parks or
facilities that are as yet unnamed.
5. It is the City's objective for these requests to name
individual components of a park. Those individual components
may include ballfields, rinks and courts.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MARCH 9, 1993
The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation
Commission was held on Tuesday, March 9, 1993, in the City Hall
Large Conference Room, 1101 Victoria Curve. The meeting was called
to order at 7:05 o'clock P.M. The following members were present:
Katz, Norton, Kleinglass, Spicer, Linnell, Damberg and Libra. Also
present were Administrative Assistant Kevin Batchelder and Civil
Engineer Klayton Eckles.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Damberg moved to approve the February 9, 1993
Minutes.
Commissioner Spicer seconded the motion.
AYES: 7
NAYS: 0
REQUEST TO DEDICATE FIELD
The Parks and Recreation Commission discussed the request to
name a field or park in the Mendota Heights park system after
Mr. Richard (Jake) Grauman. Mr. Daniel O'Keefe, 745 Pontiac
Place, on behalf of the Korean War Veteran's Association, had
made a request of the City of Mendota Heights to name a field
or a park after Richard Grauman who was missing in action in
the Korean War. The Commission discussed the need to have a
policy on naming fields and parks in Mendota Heights.
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated he had contacted
the School District about the possibility of naming the Sibley
Park Varsity baseball field in dedication of Richard Grauman.
Batchelder stated the Sibley Varsity baseball field would be
an appropriate site because the School District encompasses
the community of West St. Paul and Mendota Heights.
Batchelder stated a lot of parents and children would be
visiting the Varsity baseball field in the future and this
would be a quite visible site. Commissioner Kleinglass stated
he believes the request was also coincidental to the 40th
Anniversary of the Korean War and the fact that the Korean War
Veteran's Association is holding their annual convention in
Bloomington in July. Kleinglass stated there was a
possibility that President Clinton would be in town for a
dedication ceremony to inter ten M.I.A.'s at Fort Snelling
National Cemetery.
Mr. O'Keefe introduced LeRoy Noack, Chuck Velin and his
brother, Gary O'Keefe as friends and neighbors of Richard
(Jake) Grauman. Mr. O'Keefe stated all four are Veterans of
the Korean War. Mr. O'Keefe stated the worse possible fate
for a soldier is to be missing and the second worse possible
fate is then to be forgotten. Mr. O'Keefe stated when all of
Richard's friends and neighbors are gone, he will then be
forgotten and that he believes it would be a fine thing for
the City to preserve his memory by naming a field after him.
Mr. O'Keefe stated that Jake sacrificed his life in service of
his Country and that it would be appropriate to dedicate a
field in his honor.
Commissioner Spicer inquired if there was a Mendota Heights in
the 1940's when Jake and his friends went through high school.
Mr. Noack responded that at that time Mendota Heights was a
township and that everyone north of Highway 110 was in what
was considered District 5 schools at that time. Mr. Noack
stated that the choice was to attend South St. Paul or
Humboldt High School and at that time Sibley School was a
junior high. Mr. Noack stated at that time everybody in this
area considered themselves West Siders and it was considered
to be one community.
Mr. Velin stated Jake Grauman is one of two soldiers missing
in action from the Korean War that were from Dakota County.
He stated it would be nice to name a ballfield after Jake
Grauman because he was a recognized athlete in high school and
his desire was to run a sporting goods store after the war.
Mr. Velin stated it would be a good thing for Mendota Heights
and that this dedication ceremony could be tied in with the
National Convention that the Korean War Veteran's Association.
is holding in Bloomington this coming July.
Mr. O'Keefe stated the other gentleman missing in action from
Dakota County was from southern Dakota County and the request
is only for Jake Grauman's dedication. Mr. O'Keefe stated
there are still 8,000 soldiers missing in action from the
Korean War.
The Commission inquired if Humboldt High School or the City of
West St. Paul had been approached. Mr. Velin responded they
just feel the dedication for Jake Grauman should be somewhere
in Dakota County and that Mendota Heights has new park
facilities and that Jake's closest friends have resided in
Mendota Heights for many years. ..The Commission briefly
discussed the need to have a policy to guide their actions on
recommendations for park dedications. Commissioner Spicer
stated these gentlemen must really have been friends to come
back forty years later to get their friend recognized and have
a park dedicated after him. Mr. Velian responded all four of
the gentlemen present tonight were good friends of Jake
Grauman and he was the kind of guy who never said a bad thing
about anybody. He stated that Jake was a true gentlemen and
everybody liked Jake.
Commissioner Kleinglass moved that the Parks Commission give
staff some guidelines on a policy to adopt at the April
meeting and that the Parks Commission at the April meeting
should make a recommendation that a field be named for Mr.
Richard (Jake) Grauman.
Commissioner Spicer seconded the motion.
AYES: 7
NAYS: 0
The Commission directed staff to come back with a brief policy
discussing the proceduralapproach for approving park
dedications and directed staff to pursue with the School
District the Sibley Varsity baseball field as the first
priority for naming a field after Richard (Jake) Grauman and
that the second priority would be a softball field.
Commissioner Norton stated that part of the policy should
include a diversity in the types of contributions made
including historical and civic contributions as well as
military contributions. Commissioner Libra stated this would
be an opportunity to recognize all Korean Veterans and that
this should be a tribute for all missing in action Korean
Veterans.
IVY FALLS IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
Civil Engineer Klayton Eckles made a presentation on the Ivy
Falls Storm Water Improvement Project for the information of
the Parks Commission. Eckles explained thedrainage and
erosion problems in Ivy Falls Creek and described the
improvement project plans. Eckles stated the park area
currently contains a small detention pond with temporary
storage for water during large rain events. He stated this
storage capacity is inadequate and as part of the improvement
project need to be enlarged. Eckles stated a detention pond
concentrates water during major storm events and then slowly
allows the water to drain through a small pipe. He stated
this capacity allows the City to plan for catastrophic ten
year and 100 year storms. He stated currently there is a wet
pond in this area and the detention area fills up during a one
year storm event. He stated the City desires to build its
capacity to handle a ten year storm event so that the water
does not flow over Maple Park Drive.
Eckles explained the City Engineers have planned to excavate
out a small area of the park and build a berm along Maple Park
Drive that would hold the water back and allow the water to
pool in this area. Eckles stated the size of the permanent
water pond area would not change but that the detention area
is being enlarged.
Commissioner Spicer inquired if this detention area would
impact the ballfield or the playground equipment. Eckles
stated no, but it will be close to the play field and the
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
APRIL 13, 1993
The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation
Commission was held on Tuesday, April 13, 1993 in the City Hall
Large Conference Room, 1101 Victoria Curve. The meeting was called
to order at 6:30 o'clock P.M. The following members were present:
Katz, Norton, Spicer, Linnell, Damberg and Libra. Commissioner
Kleinglass was excused. Also present was Administrative Assistant
Kevin Batchelder. Mr. Dan O'Keefe was in the audience.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Spicer moved to approve the March 9, 1993,
Minutes with corrections.
Commissioner Norton seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
ADOPTION OF GUIDELINES
FOR DEDICATING FIELDS IN THE
PARK SYSTEM
The Parks and Recreation Commission discussed a proposed
policy for the naming of fields and parks in the Mendota
Heights park system. Commissioner Spicer commented that the
City had a need for such guidelines in order to handle the
requests such as the one Mr. O'Keefe had brought forward at
the previous month's meeting. Chair Katz stated that the
guidelines appear to be well organized and had incorporated
the Parks Commission's intent for guidelines. The Commission
decided to revise the Adopt -A -Park Program stipulations to
read "the Adopt -A -Park Program is also an appropriate vehicle
for recognition".
Commissioner Spicer moved to approve the Guidelines for
Dedication of Park Fields and Facilities.
Commissioner Linnell seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
REQUEST TO DEDICATE FIELDS
Chair Katz introduced this item by stating that last month the
Commission had considered a request from Mr. Dan O'Keefe to
name a park or a field after Richard (Jake) Grauman, a Korean
War Veteran missing in action. Administrative Assistant
Parks and Recreation Commission
April 13, 1993
Page 2
Batchelder stated the School District had been in contact with
Mr. O'Keefe regarding their procedures for obtaining School
District approval. Batchelder stated that Mr. O'Keefe would
be submitting a request to the School District for their
consideration.
Mr. O'Keefe stated that he was grateful that the Parks and
Recreation Commission were considering his request to name
Sibley Park baseball field after Richard (Jake) Grauman.
Commissioner Spicer stated the Commission had been very
impressed by Mr. O'Keefe and his friends at last month's
meeting and their commitment to their old friend. Spicer
stated that after all these years it was touching to see that
Jake's friends still cared enough about him to take action on
dedicating a field in his honor. Mr. O'Keefe stated there is
a possibility when the annual Korean War Veteran's National
Convention is held in Bloomington on July 24 through July
28th, there might be a ceremony in conjunction with this
dedication.
Commissioner Spicer moved to recommend that City Council
approve the naming of Sibley Park baseball field as Jake
Grauman Field in honor of Richard (Jake) Grauman. Spicer
stated this recommendation also includes direction to staff to
contact Independent School District No. 197 to inform them of
the Commission's recommendation and if possible to have the
City participate in a ceremony in conjunction with the Korean
War Veterans convention in July.
Commissioner Norton seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
Commissioner Spicer was excused at 6:50 o'clock P.M.
DAKOTA COUNTY ISTEA APPLICATION
Chair Katz introduced this item. Batchelder stated the City
Council, at their April 6th meeting, had adopted a Resolution
in support of an ISTEA application by the City of Eagan for
trail connections in the Cedar 2.venue/Minnesota National
Wildlife Refuge area. Commissioner Linnell stated that the
DNR is currently developing trails in the Minnesota Valley
from Fort Snelling to Cedar Avenue and he believes these
trails will hook into the Eagan trail connections that are
being proposed for ISTEA funding.
Batchelder stated Dakota County was applying for a series of
three ISTEA Grants due to the fact that each grant has a
maximum award of $500,000. Batchelder stated the proposed
0
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August 3, 1993
DR.. JACK R. LOSS
Acting Superintendent of Schools
(612) 681-2395
Mr. Thomas Lawell, City Administrator.
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, Minnesota 55118
Dear Tom,
As you know, the city of Mendota Heights and District 197 recently have been dealing with the
issue of naming a park after a former resident --in this particular case, Jake Grauman. At the
July 19, 1993, meeting of the School Board, I received the assignment to communicate with your
office regarding some alternatives and some suggestions that the city and the School District
might consider in addressing this issue. I realize that the City has given support to the naming of
the Sibley Park complex. The School District feels that since this is a joint powers agreement, we
should mutually work out a recommendation. I am suggesting at this time that you and I sit down
together, possibly bringing one other person from each of our offices, to examine some of the
questions and to determine if it is possible to collectively come up with a recommendation that
could be presented to our respective Council/Board.
If it would be possible to meet for an hour or so during the week of August 9-13, please give me a call
so that we can arrange a time to talk.
Sincerely,
Loss
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 197
District Offices
1897 Delaware Avenue
West St. Paul, Minnesota 55118
(612) 681-2300 FAX (612) 681-9102
Serving West St. Paul, Mendota Heights, Eagan, Mendota, Sunfish Lake, Lilydale, and Inver Grove Heights
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
MEMO
August 5, 1993
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assist
Subject: Review of Proposed Parks Budget for 1994
DISCUSSION
City Administrator Tom Lawell has recently completed budget
reviews from all City departments and has produced the Proposed
Budget for 1994. This proposed budget is presented to City Council
in a budget workshop for their review and action. The City Council
must adopt a Levy based on the preliminary budget and then, later
in the year, after budget hearings they formally adopt the 1994
Budget.
Attached you will find the Parks and Recreation department's
proposed budget and the proposed budget for the Special Parks Fund.
As you are aware, the Parks department is a division of the Public
Works department and many people were instrumental in formulating
this budget proposal. This includes Jim Danielson, Public Works
Director, Tom Olund, Public Works Supervisor, and Terry Blum, Parks
Superintendent. Shelli Morgan and myself contributed the
Recreation portions of the budget, and as always Larry Shaughnessy,
Treasurer, Shirley Shannon, Accountant and Kathy Swanson, City
Clerk provided valuable input on finances and accounting.
The proposed budget is before you tonight to review and pass
along any comments or recommendations to the City Council for their
budget Workshop. The City Council will conduct this workshop on
August 31st.
Total expenditures of $356,030 are proposed for 1994 which
represents an increase of 24%. from 1993. This increase is
primarily due to capital requests and expanded recreation programs.
Please keep in mind that all recreation programs are self
supporting through user fees, so the revenue side of the budget is
increased also. New capital requests for 1994 include a One Ton
Dumpster Truck, and two mowers - a Toro Groundmaster and a Toro Pro
Line. Detail sheets for these requests are included.
I will be prepared to review the proposed budget on Tuesday
evening and to answer any questions that you may have.
ACTION REQUIRED
Review the 1994 Parks and Recreation Budget and forward any
comments or recommendations to City Council.
'tJND
GENERAL FUND
FUND NO.
01
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
DEPARTMENT
1991
ACTUAL
1992
ACTUAL
1993
BUDGET
1993
to 6/1/93
1993
ESTIMATE
City Council
Administration
Elections
Police
Fire
Code. Enforcement
Public Works
Road & Bridge
Parks
Tanning
Recycling
Animal Control
Total General Fund
Expenditures
General Fund
Contingency
16,670
406,170
15,360
1,107,300
194,670
110,020
362,700
196,290
71,830
59,480
2,780
18,590
438,070
33,440
1,136,830
217,410
129,570
413,120
270,740
62,560
13,400
4,380
20,370
513,490
20,650
1,195,470
194,840
118,700
448,190
286,040
62,830
12,880
4,200
7,650
181,850
6,570
410,830
51,090
48,080
179,560
109,740
11,980
3,940
960
19,360
513,410
20,650
1,188,550
194,590
122,260
463,110
286,130
63,130
12,880
4,200
1994
PROPOSED_
19,990
522,900
39,960
1,209,680
205,990
125,740
408,630
356,030
65,500
13,200
7,200
Add
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0
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25,000
0
0
10,000
0
0
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0
2,877,660
67,000
1,012,250
0
2,888,270
0
2,974,820
80,000
35,000
0
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.9
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FORM 0-4A
BACK-UP DETAIL FOR CONTRACTUAL SERVICE _X_
COMMODITIES
OTHER CHARGES
(CHECK ONE)
FUNCTION
DEPT.
DEPT. NO
ACTIVITY
SERVICE LEVEL
Public Works
Park & Recreation
70
Maintenance
Maintenance
LINE
ITEM
LINE ITEM DETAIL
COST
4200
Rentals & Leases
4,500
4210
Telephone
3,150
4211
Electric Service
4,700
Public Works Garage 2,700
Warming Houses 1,400
Comfort Stations 600
4212
Gas Service
6,400
Public Works Garage 5,300
Warming Houses 1,100
4220
Professional Fees - Engineering
2,000
4221
Engineering Retainer
1,840
4224
Labor Negotiations
100
4280
Rubbish Removal
1,000
Sibley Park Maintenance Agreement
15,450
Custodial Service
700
TOTAL
39,840
FORM 0-4B
BACK-UP DETAIL FOR CONTRACTUAL SERVICE
COMMODITIES _X
OTHER CHARGES
(CHECK ONE)
FUNCTION
DEPT.
DEPT. NO
ACTIVITY
SERVICE LEVEL
Public Works
Park & Recreation
&70
Maintenance
Maintenance
LINE
ITEM
LINE ITEM DETAIL
COST
4300
Office Supplies
770
4305
Operating Supplies
11,000
Maintenance operating supplies 10,000
Recreation operating supplies 1,000
4320
Gasoline & Oil
6,000
4330
Equipment Repairs & Maintenance
6,000
4331.
Park Maintenance
22,000
4331-315
Sand & Fertilizer 11,000
4331-320
Warming houses • 1,000
4331-321
Hockey Rink Maintenance 1,500
4331-322
Seal coat Marie Avenue trail 5,500
4331-323
Trail Maintenance (Crown Pt. drain tile) 3,000
4335
Building Maintenance
700
TOTAL
46,470
FORM 0-4C
BACK-UP DETAIL FOR CONTRACTUAL SERVICES
COMMODITIES
OTHER CHARGES _X_
(CHECK ONE)
FUNCTION
DEPT.
DEPT. NO
ACTIVITY
SERVICE LEVEL
Public Works
Park & Recreation
70
Maintenance
Maintenance
LINE
ITEM
LINE ITEM DETAIL
COST
4400
Conferences & Schools
700
4404
Membership Dues
150
4410
Clothing Allowance
540
4422
Street Maintenance Material
1,000
4425
Water Readings
6,300
4425-315
Public Works Garage 100
4425-470
Hydrant Water Readings 1,200
4425
Park Irrigation 5,000
4490
Sundry
850
4500
Tree Removal
2,500
4435-200
Recreation Programs
22,970
T -ball (Mend -Eagan) 3,500
Softball leagues 12,750
Summer Adventure (School District) 3,000
Summer concerts 1,000
Volleyball Leagues 870
Skating Lessons 300
Youth Camp .550
Contingency 1,000
4415
Mileage
200
TOTAL
35,210