1992-06-09 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda Packet•
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
AGENDA
11,
Joint City Council/Parks and Recreation Commission
Workshop
June 9, 1992 - 7:30 P.M.
1. 7:30 - Call to Order
2. 7:30 7:35 - Roll Call and Introductions
3. 7:35 - 8:30 Recreation Programming and Staffing
4. 8:30 - 9:00 - Land Acquisition
- Future - Referendum
- Par 3 Golf Course
5. 9:00 9:15 - Park Dedications
- Land or Cash?
6. 9:15 - 9:30 - Park Celebration - August 8th
7. Adjourn
CITY OF MENDOTA4HEIGHTS
MEMO
June 5, 1992
To: Mayor, City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assista
Subject: Joint City Council/Parks and Recreation Commission
Workshop
DISCUSSION
The regularly scheduled Parks and Recreation Commission
meeting in June will be devoted to a Joint Workshop with the
Commission and City Council. The City Council had desired to meet
with each Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission had
then generated a list of the most important topics to discuss with
the City Council. The topics are:
1. Recreation Staffing
2. Recreation Programming
3. Future Land Acquisition and use of Unused Referendum Funding
4. Acquisition of the Par 3 Golf Course
5. Discussion of guiding principles for consideration of cash or
land dedications.
The majority of the evening is devoted to Council/Commission
discussion, however, brief staff presentations have been prepared
for each item to provide information and background history. I
have attached a time schedule to each agenda item as a tentative
guideline.
To:
From:
Subject:
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
MEMO
June 5, 1992
Mayor, City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission
Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assista
Joint City Council/Parks and Recreation Commission
Workshop
Recreation Programming and Staffing
DISCUSSION
The Parks and Recreation Commission has been discussing
Recreation Services as a priority issue since last June when they
were asked by City Council (following the team building session) to
review the "Role of the Park Commission." Role #2 of the
Commission was "to develop the city's recreation program." In the
aftermath of the park construction and park improvements that were
a result of the 1989 Parks Referendum, the Commission has begun to
focus on city services for recreation programming and the lack of
city staffing.
I have attached a copy of the minutes from the Parks and
Recreation Commission's discussion over the last year that
highlight the direction the city has pursued in analyzing this
topic. At the February 11, 1992 meeting, the Parks and Recreation
Commission recommended that a permanent, part time staff position
to handle recreation services in Mendota Heights be included in the
1993 budget process: The Parks and Recreation Commission
reaffirmed this position at their April 14, 1992 meeting. (See
attached minutes.)
As you will note
options, or avenues,
recreation, services.
present in more detail
from reading the minutes, there are many
available to the city in considering
I will be prepared on Tuesday evening to
information regarding:
1. Community demand for recreation services.
- Existing services
Gaps in current service
- Existing demand
Needs analysis or community survey
2. Budget implications
- Staffing levels and options
Recreation Program costs
- Recreation Program revenue
Potential impact on City budget for 1993
3. Other options
- Joint Powers Agreements
- Consolidation with existing municipal programs
4. Community benefit
As background information, I have also provided a copy of a
February 6, 1992 memo to the Parks and Recreation Commission that
includes an inventory that was prepared to focus on what recreation
services are provided in and around Mendota Heights. Also attached
is an April 8, 1992 memo that relayed information from the City
Council to the Parks and Recreation Commission following the
"Target Goals Workshop" conducted by City Council in March. The
Parks and Recreation Commission's discussion of this memo can be
followed in the April minutes which are enclosed.
ACTION REQUIRED
Acknowledge staff presentation and discuss recreation
programming and staffing. Provide staff with direction for
appropriate action to follow for the 1993 budget process.
June 11, 1991
Page 3
THE ROLE OF THE PARK COMMISSION
Chair John Huber recapped . the City
Council/Commission Teambuilding session held in
April. Huber stated that the Council and
Commission had discussed communication strategies,
expectations and goals, and role clarity. Huber
stated that at the 1988 Teambuilding session a
"Role of the Parks Commission" document had been
drafted and that the current City Council desired
to have each Commission review their document for
discussion and to report back to the City Council
any changes, additions or deletions desired. Huber
stated, that at the recent Teambuilding session,
role clarity had been discussed as an important
component of good communication and teamwork. He
stated that Council felt it was important that each
Commission review their role for redrafting and
approval by City Council.
Huber read the "Role of the Parks Commission" as
follows:
1. To advocate for facilities, development, planning
and expansion of parks.
2. To develop the city's recreation program.
3. To provide leadership, study and recommendations to
the Council.
4. To be responsive to citizen park and recreation -
needs.
5. To set policy for park maintenance.
6. To monitor park facilities.
7. To recommend disbursement of park funds.
8. To implement park programs determined by Council.
9. To promote the use of park facilities.
Commissioner Katz stated that item #1 had been
accomplished with the Parks Referendum.
Commissioner Damberg stated that item #2 was an
important priority for the Commission because the
new facilities would be creating new recreational
demands. Damberg stated that setting policies will
take up a lot of the Commission's time in the next
year as there are a host of policy issues ,to
consider for the new facilities ranging from
reservation and fee issues to regulations on
trails.
Chair Huber stated that the park maintenance item
was one that was dictated by the funding given
during the budget process. Huber stated that he
June 11, 1991
Page 4
1 often receives calls at home from, residents
)
regarding park maintenance policies and also with
questions about recreation programs. Huber
(
inquired about current park maintenance service
levels. Kullander responded that it has been a
tough year for the parks crews to keep up with the
cutting of the grass, that they have just recently
caught up with the work after having to mow about
once every three days because of the rain.
Kullander stated that other maintenance items
suffer when the grass work is so concentrated.
Kullander stated the new mower is definitely
helping the parks crews, but that they need more
manpower and that there will be more fields next
year.
Chair Huber stated that Mend -Eagan fulfills most of
the City's recreation needs. He inquired what the
Commission felt about advocating for more City
funded recreation programs. Commissioner Katz
stated that this is an area for leadership from the
Parks Commission. Katz stated that with more
demand for recreation programs there will be a need
for coordination, scheduling and monitoring
programs that the City will have to be responsible
for. The Commission discussed community
cooperation with neighboring community's recreation
departments, Independent School District and Mend -
Eagan.
Chair Huber stated that the City should provide for
recreational programs that are in Mendota Heights
for our residents, for instance softball and other
programs that use our facilities. Huber stated
that the community cooperation type items would be
for items outside Mendota Heights such as ski trips
that the City could co-sponsor with West St. Paul.
Commissioner Katz stated the City should
participate in shared programs if it benefits our
residents. Commissioner Damberg stated that when
our fields and facilities come on line the City
will have to provide recreation programming.
Damberg stated that sharing programs with other
communities was fine and that the City should begin
discussions with other organizations. One option
discussed was the City paying the tab when our
residents pay a non-resident fee to participate in
recreation programs outside Mendota Heights, or co-
sponsoring the programs if our residents show an
interest or demand.
AYES: ' 6
NAYS: 0
June 11, 1991
Page 5
Commissioner Lundeen stated that a survey of
community recreation needs ought to take place so
that the Commission and City Council can know which
recreations needs they should address.
Commissioner Kleinglass stated that the Commission
would only be guessing without the information that
a survey could provide. Commissioner Katz stated
that the question of a survey is at the heart of
the Parks Commission's discussion of role clarity.
Katz inquired if the Commission sees itself as
instigating for action or reacting to what is
happening in the community. Katz stated that it
was her sense this is an area where the Parks
Commission could show some leadership.
Commissioner Hunter stated that the City could
first address known needs, that staff receives
phone calls and has a feel for recreation demands.
Kullander stated that staff was aware of
approximately twenty softball teams outside of our
program that had expressed an interest. Kullander
stated that the newsletter would allow the City to
inquire about recreation needs. Hunter stated that
most cities have conducted surveys that show the
same results and that Mendota Heights is not that
different from other communities. He suggested
that the Commission review programs that are
utilized elsewhere and follow through with them.
Commissioner Lundeen and Damberg felt the community
should be able to participate in a survey.
Commissioner Kleinglass moved that the Commission
direct staff to prepare a newsletter article for
surveying recreation needs in Mendota Heights for
review by the Commission for approval by City
Council. Commissioner Katz seconded the motion.
The Commission discussed role item #6 - To monitor
park facilities. Chair Huber stated he receives
telephone calls along these lines, but that he felt
for the most part it was an operational item for
the Parks maintenance staff. The Commission felt
this item could go •at the bottom of the list and
that item #7 - To recommend disbursement of park
funds - should move up to higher priority.
The Commission directed staff to prepare a summary
of the Role of the Parks Commission based on the
discussion, make priority adjustments to the nine
further concerned with the health effects of
Electro -Magnetic fields with power lines.
Commissioner Katz agreed and stated that EMF
concerns should be considered in relationship to
active soccer fields.
Commissioner Hunter stated the Parks and Recreation
Commission should state its concerns about power
lines and active fields and let the Planning
Commission and City Council decide land use issues.
Kullander suggested the trail links from the soccer
fields connect with Delaware Avenue and Mendota
Heights Road. The Commission agreed.
Commissioner Damberg stated that she was upset that
once again the Commission was being put in the
position of accepting a dedication without any
choice of its location or parameters. Commissioner
Katz stated that she agreed and that she fully
expected the Parks and Recreation Commission to
have control of the recommendations during the
design phase of this park dedication. Commissioner
Katz stated that the northern area in particular
needs to be considered for the proper use, as the
southern area is mostly earmarked for soccer.
Chair Huber instructed staff to make sure the Sting
and Mend -Eagan Soccer groups were aware of the
configurations and layout for the soccer area so
they could participate in the public hearings.
Kullander discussed irrigation and buildings.
ROLE OF THE PARRS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Batchelder submitted a summary of the Role of the
Parks and Recreation Commission. The Commission
decided to make "To provide leadership, study and
recommendations to the City Council" the number one
role and drop "To develop the City's recreation
program" to the second priority.
Commissioner Katz moved to approve the summary of
the Role of the Parks and Recreation Commission as
revised and submit it to City Council for approval.
Commissioner Lundeen seconded the motion.
AYES: 6
NAYS: 0
ADJOURN
There being no further business the Parks and
Recreation Commission adjourned at 8:10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Kevin Batchelder
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AYES: 7
NAYS: ,0
MENDAROTA PARK
Aryl t 5, ii%f
? Rec.- frii-mil-eS
to keep them swept, of snow in the winter.
Kullander explained that the blower is a better
option than the plow because in many portions the
trail is less than eight feet wide which is the
size of our plows. Commissioner Lundeen stated
that he felt $15,000 for a single use, attachment,
as a snowblower, seems to be too much. Lundeen
stated that he's not sure this is the only option
that should be looked at, for $15,000 a multi -use
vehicle should be considered. Kullander stated
that City staff had researched snow clearing
implements and checked with other cities and feel
that this snowblower attachment is the best
option. Kullander stated that this snowblower
attachment will allow the new Toro lawnmower to be
a piece of equipment that is used in the winter
also. Chair Huber stated that the Commission has
a concern about the $15,000 snowblower attachment.
Chair Huber stated that a new employee is being
added to the Parks maintenance. Chair Huber
stated that capital equipment was being purchased
and that new maintenance money was in the budget
but that there was no money for a new recreation
director. Commissioner Damberg stated that staff
should work out a job description for a person to
run a recreation program, and that this should be
included in the 1992 budget.
Commissioner Katz made a motion that the City
Council should raise the park dedication fee and
direct staff to prepare a proposal based on the
appropriate amount in consideration of what other
cities are charging. Commissioner Spicer seconded
the motion.
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated that
the consideration of an ice rink at Mendakota Park
was the result of a constituent request of
Councilmember Koch. A discussion ensued in which
the Parks Commission reviewed which neighborhoods
use which skating rinks throughout the City.
Chair Huber stated the Commission would need to -
determine what population would be served by an
ice rink at Mendakota.
Kullander reminded the Commission that at the time
the Mendakota Park design was being considered an
idea had been floated about flooding Rogers Lake
and using that as a free skating rink.
A-1
design and bid construction for Mendakota Park.
They felt that staff should put the pencil to the
paper for some rough sketch ideas to bring forward
at a future Park and Recreation meeting. The
Commission felt it was important to determine a
budget for this park and to begin examining
amenities to be included. Commissioner Spicer
moved that the City Council approve that the
Engineering staff, at the direction of the Parks
and Recreation Commission, design for grading and
the construction of Kensington Park. Commissioner
Damberg seconded the motion.
AYES: 7
NAYS: 0
RECREATION SURVEY
Administrative Assistant Batchelder explained that
at the June meeting, based upon a discussion of
the role of the Park Commission, the Park
Commission had directed staff to prepare survey
questions for inclusion in the Heights Highlights
newsletter in order to survey the community about
recreation needs. Batchelder stated that he felt
a more comprehensive approach, had to be taken to
determining recreation needs in the City prior to
any type of survey. Batchelder stated he'd like
to have an opportunity to research what other
cities are doing with recreation programs, to
inventory what programs exist in Mendota Heights,
to explore cooperative avenues with West St. Paul
and Independent School District 197 for co-
sponsoring activities. Batchelder stated that the
Commission should discover what they are willing
to provide before we open up the universe to
survey questions.
Chair Huber stated that it was his recollection
that the survey should be designed to query the
community on the use of current facilities that we
do have or that have been recently constructed.
Huber stated that the survey should not be an open
ended survey, but one that is designed to query
about recreation uses just for Mendota Heights and
its existing facilities. Chair Huber stated he
thought it was not a bad idea to do the background
research and use it as a springboard to future
planning of City park resources. Commissioner
Katz felt that it was important to have the survey
and stated we need to have the community decide
for us what recreation needs are and not to have
seven Commissioners telling the community what the
needs are. Commissioner Lundeen stated that he
felt a recreation coordinator in the future might
VERBAL UPDATES
•
it tem(
4) q- eec..
be necessary for Mendota Heights. Batchelder
stated that he would begin the process of
researching the recreation resources and
possibilities and would bring items back to the
Park Commission beginning next month on a monthly
basis.
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated that he
had had six organizations adopt parks in Mendota
Heights. He stated that they are:
1. Gopher State One Call Service Roger's
Lake Park
2. Rotary Club - WPS/Mendota Hts. North
Valley Park
3. Weissner Insurance South
Valley Park
4. Mendota Heights Taxidermy Victoria
Highlands Park
5. Centre One Dental/Dr. Hunter Marie
Park
6. Robert Suchomel/Tracy Schabacker Wentworth
Park
Batchelder stated that letters had been sent to
the homeowners he had identified on option three
and option four for providing a trail length
through Mayfield Heights to the City. Batchelder
stated that he had not received a response to any
of the letters that had been sent out,
approximately ten days prior.
Batchelder stated that the City Council had
approved reservations of tennis courts at Roger's
Lake Park for the girls fall tennis season for
Visitation Convent. Batchelder stated that the
tree planting grant at the Department of Natural
Resources had not gone through as the City did not
qualify as a Tree City for the grant money they
had available. Batchelder stated that he had
recently had two requests for the City to build a
community pool.
A few members of the Commission stated that a
community pool had been looked at in the past and
that the City had decided not to build one.
Commissioner Kleinglass inquired what is the
objection to a community pool. He felt that a
pool was a good recreation use for the community.
Batchelder stated that it was probably possible
for the City to build a City pool, but the tax
RECREATION PROGRAMMING
ADJOURN
lot WI(
Rec.: „,,,..,,,tv;-cs •
Administrative Assistant Batchelder reported that he had
met with Bill Kleineck, Parks Director of Wet St. Paul,
to discuss possible cooperation between the two cities
for recreation programming services. Batchelder stated
that Mr. Kleineck indicated that West St. Paul provides
a full array of recreation programs and could incorporate
Mendota Heights into some of its programs with less
additional staff people than Mendota Heights would need
to hire to provide the same services. Batchelder stated
that Mr. Kleineck had indicated an interest in Mendota
Heights' new fields.
Batchelder stated a survey was being conducted by staff
of twenty metro area cities that were either similar in
size to Mendota Heights, or were in Dakota County, to
determine what levels of recreation programming are being
provided and to determine what facilities and operational
policies are guiding other recreation programs.
Batchelder indicated that it was his intention to also
meet with Mend -Eagan, ISD -197 and Inver Grove Heights.
Batchelder mentioned that Inver Grove Heights recently
adopted a Comprehensive Parks Plan and may be able to
provide some insights into the evolution of recreation
programs.
The Commission discussed cooperative programming with
West St. Paul and the use of Mendota Heights fields. The
Commission discussed the subject of an intern to help
design recreation programs, as mentioned in the City
Council budget workshop minutes. The Commission decided
to continue exploring and analyzing recreation
programming while keeping its options open at this point.
Commissioner Spicer inquired if the City wanted to enter
into a letter of agreement with Mend -Eagan about the
storage space at the Water Tower and the new antenna
%building.
There being no further business, the Commission adjourned
at 8:15 o'clock p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kevin Batchelder pA-2>
Administrative As stant
(
1 41/ (
P tfr“, t:N.,airC6
Page 10
league on Thursday night and the kittenball league
on Sunday nights. The Commission directed staff to
inform West Publishing there would be no
accommodation until the City needs are determined
first.
RECREATION SURVEY/SOFTBALL POLICIES
VERBAL UPDATES
Administrative Assistant Batchelder handed out
summary sheets briefly describing the softball
policies of twenty metro area cities. Batchelder
stated the City would need to develop policies
regarding field use, reservation, league play,
tournaments, concession rental, and fees.
Batchelder stated the survey shows' how other cities
are handling their programs. Park brochures from
metro area cities were distributed to each
Commissioner. Batchelder stated proposed softball
policies would be prepared for the December meeting
and the Commissioners would have time to study the
survey and brochures to begin discussion and
establishment of softball policies for the coming
season.
Batchelder stated the Metropolitan Council had
contacted the City about the proposed Harriet
Island/Lilydale/Cherokee Park Regional Park that is
once again being pushed forward by the City of St.
Paul., Batchelder stated St. Paul was seeking
funding from the Met Council to build this regional
park and the Met Council was asking for comments as
part of their public hearing procedures.
Batchelder stated plans have been requested so the
City can make a formal response, as was done in
1988 when this park was under consideration.
Batchelder stated the heavy snow storm that we
received last week may have ruined any chance that
Centex's contractors would have had to rough grade
Kensington Park prior to the onset of winter.
Batchelder stated we will have to wait and see on
the weather over the next month. He stated tfiis
should not delay the construction of Kensington
Park, our intention would still be to build the
park in 1992, for use in 1993.
Kullander stated the Mendota Interchange project
was nearing the point where the State would be
letting contracts. He stated there is 1 and 1/2
mile of trails proposed, however, the cost sharing
January 14, 1992
Page 6
walls built on the south end of the west Afield would
allow bleachers to be on that side. He also stated it
was appropriate to have the bleachers as close to the
center of the field as possible. Commissioner Spicer
stated it made the most sense to him to put 50 feet
between the fields and raise the powerlines.
Mr. Campbell reiterated his concern that there should not
be soccer fields underneath the power line as it affects
the play too much. Commissioner Lundeen stated the
constraints of the site have left the Parks Commission
with a field that has powerlines over it. He stated this
is what the Commission has to deal with and his concern
is that these fields are becoming more expensive.
Commissioner Lundeen stated that there were other items
in the referendum he would rather spend $35,000 on and
this field could be made'slightly smaller to be brought
out from underneath the powerlines. Commissioner Lundeen
stated that since the Commission received the original
priorities of the soccer interests: they have added
considerable expense to the cost of Kensington Park
attempting to meet the wishes of the soccer group. He
stated that the Commission has to decide if the money is
well spent.
Chair Huber asked for the feeling of the Parks Commission
about the options available for powerlines or land
purchase. The Commission stated they preferred the
raising of the power line and did not prefer a land
purchase from Centex Homes.
Mr. Campbell stated it would be nice if staff could
approach Centex and see if a 10 foot strip of land could
be obtained in order to allow 10 feet of room for
,bleachers between the fields. Parks. Project Manager
Kullander estimated that a 10 foot strip of land would
still cost $13,500 which Centex anticipates for
replatting and planning costs and the $2.00 per square
foot for the land purchase.
Chair Huber stated the Parks Commission should recommend
that $25,000 be budgeted for raising of the powerlines
but kept in reserve until after the fields acre
constructed to see how the fields fit and the extent of
the problem. The Parks Commission was of the consensus
that this is the proper approach for the soccer area.
RECREATION PROGRAMMING
AND STAFFING
Administrative Assistant Batchelder explained that staff
January 14, 1992
Page 7
is currently working on an inventory of what neighboring
communities are providing for park services in order to
compare this inventory with what organizations are
providing currently in Mendota Heights. He stated this
comparison should enable the City to look at where gaps
in service for recreation programming exist and determine
what gaps in service the City might wish to fill. He
stated at this point the City could then begin to look at
recreation staffing after determining what gaps in
recreation service we decide to fill.
Commissioner Damberg stated she had requested this item
be placed on the agenda because she feels the City needs
to be prepared for an increase in recreation demands with
the new fields and facilities we have recently built.
She stated that upon reviewing brochures of other cities
that she was aware that they provide a full range of
recreation services including programs of a non athletic
nature such as enrichment and arts and crafts.
Commissioner Damberg also stated that in the winter time
she does not see much use of the park system outside of
skating and hockey. She stated she feels the City should
consider winter time enhancements for parks including
skiing and other activities.
Chair Huber stated softball programming will be the first
area of need the City will have to address. He stated
the City should maybe put its "toe" in the water by
offering a late summer softball league or fall league to
promote our new fields and to allow the City to get an
idea of what type of softball demand exists in our
community. Commissioner Lundeen stated he would not like
to force use on our new fields at Mendakota too early if
the grass is not ready. He stated however a fall
softball league would draw attention to our programs and
,help the City determine demand.
Commissioner Damberg stated she would also like to see
the City look at nature opportunities for recreation
programming and suggested that this could be done in
conjunction with Dodge Nature Center. She stated that
Valley Park is a significant natural amenity and there
are many people in the community that would interested in
nature programs.
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated he would be
prepared to have a softball field reservation policy, a
concessions use policy and the recreation inventory
prepared for the February meeting.
February 11, 1992
Page 4
of landscaping they would allow in their easement areas.
He stated that he had been presented with a proposal to
install brick pavers in the comfort station area verses
concrete. He stated pavers would cost twice as much as
concrete. The Commission stated they did not want to
botber with brick pavers.
Kullander stated play equipment being installed in
Kensington Parks, would have to be bid out again. The
Commission did not want to any suppliers and directed
staff to review any submittals.
Commissioner Lundeen arrived at 7:40 o'clock P.M.
Chair Huber inquired about the Americans for Disability
Act requirements for the play equipment. Parks Project
Manager Kullander responded the play equipment is being
designed to meet the requirements and would have "like"
equipment available for persons with disabilities.
Kullander mentioned that vending machine operators had
shown an interest in installing their machines in this
park and that they were satisfied with the design of the
building and its setup for vending machines.
Kullander stated the final plans would be ready for
review by the Parks and Recreation Commission at their
March meeting where upon it would go to the City Council
for their approval. He stated the bidding process would
occur in Ma'rch and April with a May or June construction
date depending on when Centex completes the rough
grading.
RECREATION PROGRAMMING
Administrative Assistant Batchelder explained the
inventory of park services offered by three neighboring
Cities, the Community Education Department, Mend -Eagan
Association and the Dodge Nature Center that had been
prepared for the Parks and Recreation Commission's
review. Batchelder stated it was the intent of the
inventory to survey the recreation service universe and
enable the City to discover where gaps in service for
recreation programming exist. He stated the City can
then conduct a needs analysis to determine what area of
recreation programming the City may wish to provide. He
stated the City could then begin to examine what types of
costs would be involved with that level of recreation
programming and begin to budget if any level of service
is desired. Administrative Assistant Batchelder thanked
Maria Karels, clerk/receptionist, for all of the data
February 11, 1992
Page 5
compiling and preparation of the inventory., that was
provided for this evening's meeting.
Commissioner Katz stated that the lack of recreation
programming and services in Mendota Heights is
embarrassing, however residents can participate in
surrounding communities by paying a non-resident fee and
they are not excluded from those programs. Commissioner
Katz stated if you add in the Community Education, the
Dodge Nature Center and other local programs, the
community does have some level of service.
• Chair Huber stated that this is an immense amount of data
and where to get started was a good question. He stated
he feels that Mendota Heights should sponsor a special
event, like a volleyball day, and put some effort into a
single day activity in order to get an idea what the
reaction from the community is. He stated an example
could be a 5k walk on Valley trail.
Commissioner Spicer stated the point was it would take a
part time staff person to put together the special event
that Chair Huber had mentioned. He stated the City needs
a part time staff person for recreation to do the
scheduling, event planning and coordination. • He stated
the City has put forth a major effort to build
recreational facilities and that it is now time to
include at least a part time person in the budget to
implement recreation services. Administrative Assistant
Batchelder stated that consolidation with and cooperation
with anothei' municipality is another possible approach.
Commissioner Katz stated the City of Mendota Heights
should be providing recreation services for itself.
Commissioner Spicer stated the City should have our own
part time recreation coordinator.
Administrative Assistant Batchelder explained he had
attempted to have the Parks and Recreation Commission
define the recreation programs they would desire to get
into, in order that he can analyze the cost and budget
impacts and staffing levels necessary to begin scheduling
and administering leagues and recreation programs in
Mendota Heights as part of the 1993 Budget process. •
Chair Huber inquired if there was presently someone on
staff who could step into more hours in order to do
recreation programming. Administrative Assistant
Batchelder responded it depends on what level of service
the City desires to get into for recreation programming.
He stated to continue to add duties to current employees
February 11, 1992
Page 6
workloads would not attain a very high level .of service
or efficiency for recreation programming. '
Commissioner Katz stated a part time person for
recreation would be appropriate for the City in order to
coordinate recreation programs and to make available
information to residents desiring to know about
recreation opportunities. Commissioner Katz stated she
thought Chair Huber's idea of a big single event was a
good idea and informing the public about recreation
resources is a big part of what the City needs to begin
doing. Commissioner Katz expressed concern over the tax
impact of someday having a large Recreation Department.
Commissioner Spicer stated what is needed is a permanent
part time staff person with Park and Recreation
Commission direction to plan and coordinate programs.
Commissioner Spicer stated the other option would be to
carve out some time from someone who is on City staff.
Commissioner Kleinglass inquired if there would be
interest in hiring a graduate student to: help plan the
service levels and recreation programs needed by the
City. Commissioner Kleinglass stated that currently
there are no passive recreation activities sponsored by
the City, only athletic programs. Commissioner
Kleinglass felt this was a real need in the City of
Mendota Heights.
Commissionei Lundeen stated he felt it was important if
the City hired a part time person that that person be a
permanent employee, in order they be committed into the
plan that they would be developing. He stated it would
not be helpful for the City to get someone in on a
temporary basis who would not be part of implementing a
recreation plan. Commissioner Lundeen stated he felt a
single event may help show the demand for recreation in
Mendota Heights. Commissioner Lundeen stated if the City
were to begin with a part time permanent recreation
coordinator, there is a possibility that the recreation
program would continue to grow. He stated the community
may be better off with a recreation program that evolves
and expands.
Chair Huber summarized that the Parks and Recreation
Commission would like to see a permanent part time staff
person to schedule and coordinate athletic and non-
athletic events including possibly "family days" and
single day events. He directed staff to prepare a rough
job description for a permanent part time person and to
February 11, 1992
Page 7
figure out the costs and staff time involved in beginning
a recreation coordination program. The Parks and
Recreation Commission desired to see this permanent part
time recreation coordinator included in the 1993 Budget
process.
CONCESSION STAND
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated the City
Council had desired to have a concession stand policy
that allows access to community, civic and recreation
groups as opposed to a single contracted vendor. He
stated that instead of a contract with a single vendor it
would be necessary for the City to have a policy
regulating the reservation and use of the concession
stands both at Mendakota and Kensington. He stated the
policy would have to include provisions for worker's
compensation insurance and general liability insurance.
Administrative Assistant Batchelder asked the Commission
if they desired to allow alcohol (3.2 beer) to be sold at
the concession stand. The Commission -was of a consensus
that no alcohol should be served from the City
concessions. The Commission indicated that a rent should
be charged and that vending machine operators should pay
a percentage to the City. The Commission stated that any
revenues due to recreation activities should be
considered expenses recovered to pay for recreation
activities in the GeneralFund.. The Commission stated
they desire to see a deposit or bonding in order to make
users of the concession stand accountable.
In response, the Commission stated the approval process
for users of the concession stand should be done by City
staff based on criteria that protects the City for
damages, risk management and has revenue provisions.
SOFTBALL FIELD RESERVATIONS
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated the
neighborhood parks softball fields are currently used on
a first come, first served basis except for Mend -Eagan
reservations for little league. Typically these fields
are not reserved but when they are reserved they are
usually on an as requested basis without a fee. The
Commission concurred that this approach should continue
with the neighborhood parks. The Commission discussed
fees for non-residents using the neighborhood parks
fields and felt that a fee for non-residents was
appropriate. The Commission also felt it was appropriate
a fee should be charged when the City park crews get
requests for moving picnic tables.
Apr, ( ) Z.
Voc
Commissioner Spicer moved that the Parks Commission
recommend to the Planning Commission and the City Council
that land is the desired dedication for the Arndt
Subdivision. Spicer stated the park use with a land
dedication is unknown at this time, however, the land is
considered more valuable than a cash dedication. Spicer
stated his motion was based on the possibility Ivy Park
may be losing park land to a future storm sewer project
and that the north end contains the least amount of park
provision in the City. Spicer stated that should a cash
dedication be decided upon by the Planning Commission and
City Council, there should be a requirement that the
developer provide buffering and screening near the Ivy
Park parking lot.
Commissioner Damberg seconded the motion.
AYES: 5
NAYS: 0
CURLY. TRAIL
Commissioner Spicer moved that the Parks Commission
recommend that City Council wait to construct the new
Lexington bike trail as part of the MnDOT improvement
project.
Commissioner Hunter seconded the motion.
AYES: 5
NAYS: 0
ADVERTISING PANELS
The Parks Commission briefly discussed a request by a
local business for advertising panels on the softball
field fences or in the City parks. The Parks Commission
was unanimous consensus that this was not a desirable use
for the parks despite any revenue potential.
Commissioner Damberg moved that the Parks Commission
recommend to the City Council that advertising panels not
be allowed in the City parks.
Commissioner Katz seconded the motion.
AYES: 5
NAYS: 0
RECREATION STAFFING
Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated that the City
Council had discussed the Parks Commission February
recommendation to budget for a part time permanent
recreation staff person at their recent workshop. At the
workshop the City Council had desired to have the Parks
Commission consider hiring a seasonal intern to handle
P,- g.f G 04- 4
the current work load for_ 1992 recreation demands.
Batchelder stated that the softball program was already
administered by staff for 1992.
Commissioner Spicer stated that he was embarrassed by the
lack of recreational activities offered by. the City of
Mendota Heights. Commissioner Spicer stated without the
softball programs run by public works secretary Diane
Ward the City would offer absolutely no recreation
services to the community. Spicer stated that the City
of Mendota Heights relies solely on Mend -Eagan to provide
youth recreational activities. Commissioner Damberg
stated that the City currently has nobody to promote
programs so it was impossible to determine if there was
demand for more recreational services at the City.
Commissioner Damberg stated that the need for a
recreation coordinator or staff person had been pointed
out for years.
Chair Huber . stated the Parks Commission recommendation in
Februaryhad not been to go out and hire someone and
create a $50,000 or $100,000 per year programa Huber
stated that many park programs generate revenue that pay
for themselves. Commissioner Damberg stated that the
City needed someone permanent to have a commitment to the
recreation programs and that hiring a seasonal intern
would only staff current levels of service.
Chair Huber stated that the Parks Commission
recommendation had been to use the 1993 budget process to
take a good hard look at the staffing needs for
recreation rin 1993. Commissioner Spicer agreed and he
strongly recommended it be part of the coming year's
budget process.
Parks Project Manager Kullander stated that the City
staff was beginning to document the demanded requests for
recreation programs that had been received at City Hall.
Kullander stated they were many requests for basketball,
softball and volleyball programs. Kullander also stated
that we are often getting requests to reserve softball
and volleyball fields for people who are running their
own informal leagues. Kullander stated the City gets
numerous requests for softball leagues.
CITY COUNCIL PARKS COMMISSION
WORKSHOP
Commissioner Damberg stated that she desired to have a
workshop with the City Council, however, felt the City
Council should have offered the workshop prior to their
target goal setting session and not afterwards. Chair
Huber stated that last year's City Council/Parks
Commission workshop had embarrassing attendance by the
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
MEMO
February 6, 1992
To: Parks and Recreation Commissioners
From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assist
Subject: Discussion of Recreation Programming and Staffing
DISCUSSION
The Parks and Recreation Commission has been discussing
recreation programming and staffing at recent meetings as an issue
that needs to be addressed following the addition of numerous park
facilities in the City. Staff indicated at the January meeting
that an inventory was being prepared that would indicate what
neighboring cities are providing for park and recreations services,
as well as what level of service local community organizations are
offering. That inventory has been prepared and is attached.
It was hoped that this inventory of recreation services would
enable the City to discover where gaps in service for recreation
programming exist and then conduct a needs analysisto determine
what areas of recreation programming the City may wish to provide.
By determining what level of recreation programming Mendota Heights
may wish to provide, we can begin to explore staffing levels,
program costs, budget implications and funding. Other options
would include joint powers agreements, cooperation and
consolidation with neighboring municipalities or providers.
Please look carefully at the recreation programming inventory
that is attached so that we may discuss and determine areas of
recreation service that we can analyze.
ACTION REQUIRED
Discuss recreation programming and level of service in Mendota
Heights. Should the Commission wish to pursue any areas of
recreation programming, they should direct staff to begin analyzing
those areas.
Type of Activity
SPRING ACTIVITIES OFFERED BY CITIES'
I.G.H. Eagan W. St. Paul Men. Hts.
Activities open to all,ages
Arts X
Ballet X
Dog Obedience Training X
Golf X
Horseback Riding -
Lessons X X
Special Events
Bike Tour X
Earth Day Walk X
Easter Bunny Breakfast X
Fun.Run X
Movies X
Swimming X
Tennis X
Trips & Tours X X X
Adult Activities
Basketball -
Open Gym (Co -Ed) X
Kittenball
Soccer (Co -Ed) X
Softball -
Co -Ed X X
Men's X X
Women's X X
Volleyball -
Open Gym (Co -Ed) X
Sand X
Preschool Activities
Games X
Misc. Act. X X X
Parties X
Sports X X
Senior Activitids
Meetings X
Youth Activities
Babysitting Clinic X
Baseball X
Bows & .Arrows X
Gymnastics X
Karate X
Misc. Sports X X
Open Gym X
Parties X
Soccer X
2 Softball X
T -Ball X X
X
X
Type of Activity
SUMMER ACTIVITIES OFFERED BY CITIES
I.G.H. Eagan W. St. Paul”;.. Men. Hts.
Activities open to all ages
Archery X X
Bicycle Club X
Family programs in the park
Arts X
Bands X X
Clowns X
Magic X X
Movies X X
Plays X X
Puppet Show X x
• Sing -a -long X X
Ventriloquist X
Golf Lessons X
Horseback Riding -
Lessons X
Rollermania X
Tennis X X
Trips X
Volleyball (Sand) X
Waik Club X
Adult Activities
Disc Golf X
Golf Lessons X
Horseshoes X
Kittenball
Softball -Men's
Tennis X
Trips X
Volleyball
Co -Ed X
Preschool Activities
Classroom ' X X
Fitness X
Games X
Sports X
Senior Activities
Meetings X
Youth Activities
Babysitting Clinic X
Clinics
Baseball X
Gymnastics X
Tennis X
Dance, Drama, & Arts X X
Fitness X
Gymnastics X
Karate X
Not Available
X
X
Type of Activity
SUMMER ACTIVITIES OFFERED BY CITIES
I.G.H. Eagan W. St. Paul7.. Men. Hts.
Youth Activities
Mini Camps
Baseball X
Crafts X
Cooking X
Games X X
Nature Act. X X
Safety X
Softball X
Sports X X
Soccer X
Special Events
Dog Show X
Fishing Contest X X
Hula..Hoop Contest X
Zany Olympics X
Summer in the park X
Track & Field X
Volleyball X
Type of Activity
FALL ACTIVITIES OFFERED BY CITIES
I.G.H. Eagan W. St. Paul'. Men. Hts.
Activities open to all ages
Adventure Programs X
Ballet X
Bicycling Club X
CPR X X
Dog Obedience Training X
Horseback Lessons X X
Special Events
Halloween Bonfire X
Halloween Spook House X
Halloween Spook Trail X
Trips & Tours X
Walking Club X
Adult Activities
Basketball
Men's X X
Open (Co -Ed) X
Broomball
Co -Ed X
Men's X
Hockey
Boot X
Men's X
Soccer (Co -Ed) X
Softball
Co -Ed X
Men's X
Women's X
Tennis (Co -Ed) X
Touch Football
Co -Ed X
Men's X
Volleyball
Co -Ed X X
Men's X X
Open (Co -Ed) X
Women's X X
Preschool Activities
Classroom X X
Fitness X X
Games X
Parties X
Senior Activities
Citizens Club X X
Youth Activities
Babysitting Clinic X
Basketball Skills X
Disc Golf X
Fitness X
X
Type of Activity
FALL ACTIVITIES OFFERED BY CITIES
I.G.H. Eagan W. St. Paul Men. Hts.
Youth Activities
Flag Football X
Gymnastics X
Hockey (Open -Boys)
Ice Skating Lessons
Karate X
Parties X
Special Events
Halloween Events X X
Trips X X
X
Type of Activity
WINTER ACTIVITIES OFFERED BY CITIES
I.G.H. Eagan W. St. Paul'. Men. Hts.
Activities open to all ages
Ballet
Bicycling Club
CPR
Dog Obedience
Home Videos
Horseback Lessons
Ice Skating Lessons
Special Events
Beach Party
Christmas Fantasy
' House •Decorating
Skate with Santa
Snow Tubing
Walking Club
Winter Weekend
Boot Hockey Tournament
Family Ice Fishing
Family Skate
Family Ski
Snow Sculpture
Tubing Party & Picnic
Adult Activities
Basketball
3 -Man
Open (Co -Ed)
Cross Country Ski Lessons
Hockey
4 -Man
Boot
Snow Softball Tournament
Co -Ed
Men's
Women's
Snow Volleyball
Volleyball
Co -Ed
Men's
Women's
Preschool
Classroom
Fitness
Games
Recreation
Senior Activities
Group Meetings
Mature Driving
Tournament
Activities
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
WINTER ACTIVITIES OFFERED BY CITIES
Type of Activity I.G.H. Eagan W. St. Paul Men. Hts.
Youth Activities
Babysitting Clinic X
Basketball X
Gymnastics X
Hockey (Open -Boys) X
Ice Skating Lessons X
Karate X
Open Gym (Co -Ed) X
Special Events
Learn to Skate X
Winter Sports Day X
Trips X X X
Wrestling X
DODGE NATURE CENTER
Type of Activity Spring Summer Fall Winter.
Air Pollution Class X.
Apple Harvest X
_.-
Basket Weaving X
Bee Class X X
Bird Classes X X X
Butterfly Class X
Cave Exploring X X
Creating Natural Dyes X
Cross Country Skiing X
Lessons X
Films X
Fishing Clinic X
Fossils & Rocks X
Gardening X X X
Hiking X X X X
Insect Safari X
Learning about Farms X
Maple Syruping X
Miscellaneous Trips X
Natural Food Tasting X X
Picnics X
Snowshoeing X
Special Events
Easter Event X
Halloween Hike X
Prairie Day X
New Year's Eve Hike X
Star Gazing X
State Park Trips X X
Tales by the Hearth X
Tracking Deer X
Twilight Tales for Kids X
(Ages 2-6 with parent)
Whittling (Adults) X
Winter Day Camp X
Winter Games X
Activities are open to all age groups except where noted.
MEND-EAGAN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION
Type of Activity Spring Summer Fall Winter
Baseball X X
Basketball X
Football X
Hockey X
Soccer X
Softball X X
T -Ball X X
Tennis X
Activities are open to youth.
COMMUNITY EDUCATION ACTIVITIES
_Type of Activity Spring Summer Fall '% Winter
Activities open to all ages
Access Project
(For people w/ disabilities) X X X X
Aquatics X X X X
Early Childhood Family Educ. X X X X
Adult Activities
Adult Enrichment X X X X
Basic Education X X X X
Senior Activities
Older Adults Program X X X X
Youth Activities
Extended Day X X X X
Summer Adventure X
Youth Enrichment X X X X
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
MEMO
April 8, 1992
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assist
Subject: Recreation Staffing Discussion
DISCUSSION
City Council conducted their yearly Target Goals Workshop with
the City Administrator on March 28, 1992. The purpose of the
workshop is to examine the major issues facing the City and provide
direction and priorities for staff to address in the coming year.
The process identifies the "target issues" which will serve as the
City's, goals for the next year. As part of this discussion, the
City Council discussed staffing for recreation.
As the Commission will recall, at their February meeting
recreation staffing was discussed and the consensus was to budget
for a permanent part time recreation coordinator for 1993. (Please
see attached minutes). Part of this directive was to include non-
athletic and event planning in a job description, well as the
coordination of athletic programs.
The City Council, during the workshop, discussed hiring a part
time seasonal person to handle the demand for recreation that we
are aware of at this point for 1992. Creating artificial demand
for recreation was expressed as a concern by one Councilmember.
The current demand that' we are most aware of is softball. However,
the 1992 season is already registered and is being administered at
its current level of service. This demand is already being met for
1992 by current staff.
ACTION REQUIRED
Discuss the need for additional recreational staff in 1992.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
SIO
June 5, 1992
To: Mayor, City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assist
Subject: Joint City Council/Parks and Recreation Commission
Workshop
Land Acquisition
DISCUSSION
The Parks and Recreation Commission has seen the completion of
the majority of the defined park construction and park improvements
advertised within the 1989 Parks Referendum. While there are still
specific pieces of the referendum to complete (Kensington Park,
certain trail segments, etc.), the Commission has begun to look
forward to the less tangible aspect of the referendum - futureland
acquisition. (Please see attached 1989 Parks Referendum Brochure.)
As you are aware, a portion of the second question was used
for "the third ballfield site", which turned out to be Mendakota
Park. However, there is money remaining in the referendum after
the development of Kensington Park. Parks Project Manager Guy
Kullander is preparing a summary of what has been spent on the park
improvements, what is obligated, or earmarked, and what is
remaining so that the Commission and Council may focus on "future
land acquisition."
During two recent land use cases, the Arndt Subdivision and
the Anderson Subdivision and Wetlands cases, the city was requested
to buy open space and to maintain it as park land instead of
allowing the proposed development to proceed. In addition, the
City received a letter from Ms. Mary Jeanne Schneeman requesting
that the pity purchase a parcel of land immediately west of
Wentworth Park. (See attached.)
Par 3 Golf Course
Richard Spicer, Parks Commissioner, suggested that discussion
of City purchasing and operating the Par 3 golf course be placed on
the workshop agenda. Larry Shaughnessy, Finance Director, will
prepare some possible financing scenarios for Tuesday evening' -s
meeting.
ACTION REQUIRED
Acknowledge staff presentations and discuss future land
acquisition for parks. Provide staff with any appropriate
directions or course of action on this item.
JA A A A AAA
Why is this referendum being proposed?
Mendota Heights
Park referendum
Yesterday
Mendota Heights last passed a park referendum in 1971. The neighborhood parks we have today resulted
from that referendum. Our population has grown 40% since 1971 and our needs have changed. More boys
and girls are playing T -ball, softball & baseball. Our older youth need softball & soccer fields. More adults
are interested in walking, cycling and playing ball. All of us have become more interested in recreation and
concerned about our health. Our existing park system cannot begin to provide for our children, youth and
adults.
Today
For the past several months, a 25 member Parks Review Commmittee
has been working to determine the park needs of the community, and
to recommend a program of acquisition and development. The Mayor,
City Council and Parks Commission have unanimously endorsed their
recommendation. Passage of the fust question on the ballot, $2.7 mil-
lion, will meet the needs of today by:
• Upgrading the existing neighborhood parks and developing 3 new
ones on land already owned by the City.
• Constructing several miles of connecting links of pedestrian/bicycle
trails.
• Developing a 27. acre, community recreation complex, including
ballfields, on land being dedicated to the city.
• Providing for development (jointly with School District 197) of a
ballfield complex adjacent to Sibley High School.
• Permitting the City to acquire a third site for ballfields and other
community park needs.
Tomorrow:
Even if the first question passes, there will be additional park needs for
the future. The. second ballot question on August 15th will be for an ad-
ditional
dditional $700,000 of bonding authority. Approval of that question will
be forward looking, creating the authorization for the City to act quick-
ly in acquiring future park land and making improvements as oppor-
tunities arise. The City will not issue the bonds and begin taxing for
debt repayment until such time as the monies are needed.
Parks, Trails, Ballfields: Something for Everyone
Vote August 15th
What will the 2.7 Millioh in Question 1 provide:
Bicycle and Pedestrian Trails' : See Map on facing page
Neighborhood Park and Ballfield Improvements:
1. Ivy Hills
• Half Court Basketball
• Play Structure Additions
• Reseeding of Play Field
• Additional Landscaping
• Asphalt Parking
2. Wentworth
• Half Court Basketball
• New Play Structure
• Additional Landscaping
• Asphalt Parking
3. Victoria Highlands (new park)
• Half Court Basketball
• Play Structure
• Ball field, backstop, benches
• Benches, Trash Receptacles
• Landscaping
• Asphalt Parking
4. Marie
• Half Court Basketball
• New Play Structure
• Improved Play Field
• Asphalt Parking
5. Valley
• Half Court Basketball
• New Play Structure
• Improved Play Field
• Asphalt Parking
6. Mendakota (new park)
• Asphalt parking lot
• Landscaping
• Two full size Softball fields
o Play Structure
7. Curley Park
• Landscaping, picnic table
• Benches, trash receptacles
8. Rogers Lake
• Half Court Basketball
• Volleyball Court
• Horseshoes
• Canoe Launch
• New Play Structure
•
Additional Landscaping
• Asphalt parking
9. Friendly Marsh
• Wildlife Viewing Blind
• Elevated Viewing Platform
• Interpretive Signing
10. Friendly Hills
• Half Court Basketball
• New Play Structure
o Regrading, enlargement and seeding
of Play Field
• Landscaping
• Asphalt patking
ALAAAA,
11. Hagstrom-King (new park)
• Benches, Trash Receptacles
• Landscaping
• Ballfield grading & seeding,
backstops and benches
12. Kensington Park
(new community park)
• Three full size Softball Fields
• Two large Soccer/Football Fields
• Comfort Station Restrooms,
storage, concessions
o Play Structure
• Picnic Shelter
• Landscaping
• 190 Asphalt Parking Spaces
13. Sibley Park (new park)
• Proposed joint facility with ISD 197
• Proposed Facilities to be
determined by School District 197
and City of Mendota Heights:
• Proposed: Two Softball, One Base-
ball and One Soccer Field
• Comfort Station:
Restrooms, storage, concessions
• Play Structure
14. New Park
o Bonding Authorization to Acquire
Additional Site for Bail Fields and
Other Community Park needs
What will the $700,000 in Question 2 provide?
Funding authorization to buyland for future needs and to complete our park system.
We must be able to negotiate and act quickly to acquire park land as it becomes available.
The City will not issue the bonds or begin taxing for debt repayment until the monies are needed.
Future citizens committees may determine Mendota Heights needs a senior citizen center, more hockey rinks,
scenic overlook, more trails, community center, etc., but if the land is not purchased now these possibilities can-
not even be considered.
How much will the Park Referendum cost me??
Todays Assessed market value $100,000 $150,000 $200,000
Question #: #1 # 2 # 1 #2 # 1 # 2
Maximum annual tax increase
20 year bonds, starting 1991 $40 $8 $84 $17 $129 $25
Above figures include estimated operating and maintenance costs.
How much will the Sibley Clean-up Cost? *(Worst Case Scenario)
Todays Assessed market value
Maximum annual tax increase
1991 and beyond**
$100,000 $150,000 $200,000
$9 $19 $30
*This assumes that zero dollars will be forthcoming from insurance, federal clean-up or litigation sources. However it is anticipated that a substantial amount will
be available from these sources.
ACCE
MINN
Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Map
Neighborhood Park Locations
easommsuilmis REFERENDUM: OFF ROAD TRAILS
EXISTING OFF ROAD TRAILS
•®•®•a• FUTURE: OFF ROAD TRAILS
ON ROAD TRAILS
ACCESS TO
ST. PAUL
ACCESS TO
LILYDALE PA
S TO
. PAU
� �...�� .:-nm r ,fib• � —.,.
ACCESS TO
BLOOMINGTON V
ACCESS TO EAGAN AND
MINNESOTA RIVER VALLEY
Where do 1 Vote?
1
POLLING PLACES
Precinct 1: Somerset School
Precinct 2: Dakota County State
Bank (former Council
Chambers)
Precinct 3: Mendota School
Precinct 4: Henry, Sibley High
School Board Rm.
Precinct 5: Royal Redeemer
Lutheran Church
Precinct 6: Fire Station
What are the Questions?
• Question 1: ,
Shall the City of Mendota Heights, Minnesota be authorized to issue its general
obligation bonds in an amount not to exceed $2,700,000 for the acquisition and bet-
terment of parks, consisting of neighborhood and community parks, bicycle and
pedestrian trails, and community ballfields?
Question 2:
If the above proposal is adopted, shall the City of Mendota Heights, Minnesota, be
authorized to issue additional general obligation bonds in,an amount not to exceed
5700,000 for the acquisition and betterment of parks, consisting of neighborhood
and community parks, bicycle and pedestrian trails, and community ballfields?
Note: Question 2 cannot pass unless Question 1 is approved.
What if I will be out of town
on August 15th?
You can vote ahead anytime during
business hours at City Hall, or
Saturday, August 12 between 1:00
and 3:00, or Monday evening
August 14 between 5:00 and 7:00.
Where do I get more informa-
tion?
Call City Hall at 452-1850, or at-
tend the informational meeting on
Wednesday evening, August 9 at
7:00 PM at City Hall.
City of
Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve -Mendota Heights, MN • 55118
POSTAL PATRON
MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MN
55118 AND 55120
Bulk Rate
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 6166
St. Paul, Mn. 55118
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CITY OF MENDOTAHEIGHTS
MEMO
June 5, 1992
To: Mayor, City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assist
Subject: Joint City Council/Parks and Recreation Commission
Workshop
Park Dedications
DISCUSSION
There have been two recent land use cases involving
subdivisions (Rottlund Homes and Arndt) in which the question
arose, which is the most appropriate park dedication, land or cash?
Because of this, the Parks and Recreation Commission desires to
discuss, with the City Council, possible guiding principles
concerning whether land or cash is most appropriate.
A report on the status of the Special Park Fund, into which
all cash dedications are placed, will be available Tuesday evening.
ACTION REQUIRED
Discuss park dedications on subdivisions.
May 12, 1992
.•
City o
Mendota Heights
CELEBRATE MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARICS1
To: Community Celebration Volunteers and Sponsors
From: Planning Committee - Mendota Heights Park Celebration.
Re: Community Event
A. celebration is being planned by a group of Mendota Heights
volunteers to .dedicate .the park improvements constructed as a
result of the 1989. Parks Referendum. The celebration will also
serve as the official grand opening for Mendakota Park.. It is hoped
that. this celebration will become an annual ."Celebra.te Mendota
Heights Parks" event.
A planning committee, comprised of residents, local civic
organizations and, city officials, has been meeting recently- to
begin organizing the community celebration. The event is scheduled
for August 8, 1992 at Mendakota Park from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. •.
It is our hope that the activities will attract• a broad range of
Mendota Heights families and residents.
• In order to make this a successful event for the community, we
need the support of volunteers and sponsors from within the •
community. The purpose of this letter is to recruit volunteers to
• help organize and staff specific events and to recruit sponsors who
are willing to donate funds, time or food booths at the event.
On the reverse side of this letter you will find a list of
activities prioritized by the Planning Committee. For this first
year the committee feels it is .important to begin with a small,
successful' event that can be expanded in the years to come. We
would really like to be able to offer all of the first priority
events this year. Please look over the list and consider
volunteering. We would also be happy to consider suggestions to
organize activities not on the list or those identified as priority
2 or 3.
Donations are also important to the success of this
celebration in order to help offset promotional, coordination and
supply costs. Please consider making a donation.
Should you have any questions, please contact Kevin Batchelder
at City Hall at 452-1850.
11111 1T,I.e.+".4.; VZ116.11'
(
First Priority Items
a.
b.
•
VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES
Sibley Band Performance
Children's Games
Parent/Child Games
Carnival games
Pony rides
Inflatable Moonwalk
Other ideas
c. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony (3 p.m.)
d. Family Bike Rides and/or Bike Hikes
e. Softball tournament
f. Three point basketball shooting contest
g. Pop corn wagon
h. Fire Truck rides
i. •Food stands and concessions
Second Priority Items.
a. .Clown Club*(clown activities and face" painting)
b. Dunk Tank
c. Parade
d. . Home run hitting contest
e. Organized stage events
• Barbership Quartet
Musical bands
f. Magicians
g. T -ball tournament
h. Soccer tournament
Third Priority Items
a. Sponsor raffles
b. Street Dance
c. Square Dancing Club
d. Horseshoe - tournament
e. Volleyball tournament
•• . • .• . • .
CELEBRATE MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS - VOLUNTEER SIGN UP FORM.
(please check the appropriate item)
Name:
Address:
Phone:
City/Zip
I would like to volunteer to organize the following
-specific event:
-
I would like to volunteer my time on August 8th to help
with the following specific event:
I would like to volunteer my time on August 8th to help
with any event.
Other ideas.
CELEBRATE MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS - DONATION FORM
I would like to help sponsor Celebrate Mendota Heights
Parks and will contribute
I would like to donate
Name of Sponsor
. Address
Phone
Signature
make check payable to: Celebrate Mendota Heights Parks
send to: Celebrate Mendota Heights Parks
attn: Nancy Stredde, Jaycees
1823 Valley Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
ou42A04t-c0. bk4.\47.
SPECIAL PARKS FUND
June 9, 1992
1. Beginning Balance (1-1-92) $ 348,162
2. Revenue
1991 Park Dedication Fees
Interest Allocation
3. Expenditures
City Services
Professional Fees
Postage and Misc.
Total
Total
$ 2,368
$ 14,737
$ 17,105
$ SOO
$ 1,382
$ 410
$ 2,292
TOTAL 1991 GAIN $ 14,813
1991 YEAR. END BALANCE $ 362,975
REFERENDUM PARK IMPROVEMENTS
FUNDS AVAILABLE
CcrIACTsvvv,A
Question #1 $2,700,000
Question #2 $ 700,000
MSA funds (Marie Trail) $ 71,865
County funds (Delaware Shoulders) $ 41,395
School District #197 (Sibley extras) 4,200
Water Utility Fund (Mendakota Loop) $ 15,000
TOTAL $3,532,460
FUNDS EXPENDED/COMMITTED
Expended thru 5-31-92 $2,618,042
Outstanding Contracts or
Purchase Orders $ 99,258
Approved Project (not under contract
Kensington Park) $ 442,000
TOTAL COMMITTED FUNDS $3,159,300
BALANCE OF FUNDS REMAINING $ 373,160
COMMITMENTS
Kensington Power Poles (move) $ 25,000
Sibley Play Equipment $ 20,000
Victoria Road (Highway 13 & Diane) $ 15,000
Victoria Road (Diane to Celia
"Missing Link") $ 18,000
Highway 55, 13, 110 Trails $ 68,000
Co-op with ISD #197 for bal-1,,Nci
. .„ ,,---. s at sellacrls5-4)-i $ 15,000
Trail improvements (curb cuts, signs,
Valley Park @ Highway 13 by pass) $ 8,000
TOTAL $ 169,000
OTHER IMPROVEMENTS
(FUNDING LEVEL UNDETERMINED)
Kensington North Park
Ivy Hills - Parking lot expansion (Arndt dedication)
Informational City Wide Park Signage - All Parks
Prepared by Guy Kullander
June 8, 1992
THE ROLE OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 9, 1991
To provide leadership, study and recommendations to the City
Council.
The month to month role of the Commission and its purpose.
2. To develop the City's recreation programs.
The new park facilities will be creating new demands for
recreation programming and this will be a priority item for
the Commission in the coming years. The new facilities will
be requiring new policies, regulations and operational
procedures.
3. To advocate for facilities, development, planning and
expansion of the parks.
Originally the number one priority of the Commission, the
success and implementation of the 1989 Parks Bond Referendum
has lessened the intensity of this priority. However, it is
still an important role of the Commission.
4. To be responsive to citizen park and recreation needs.
An important role of the Commission is to be ambassadors for
the City on park and recreation issues and to be liaisons for
the Council and residents of Mendota Heights.
5. To recommend disbursement of park funds.
Originally the number seven priority, this item is now a
higher priority.' With the implementation of the referendum
and the monitoring of the Special Park fund there are
increased demands in this area.
6. To set policy for park maintenance.
7. To monitor park facilities.
8. To implement park programs determined by Council.
9. To promote the use of park facilities.
FUND
GENERAL FUND
FUND NO.
01
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
••!DEPARTMENT
1989
ACTUAL
1990
ACTUAL
1991
BUDGET
1991
TO 6/15/91
1991
ESTIMATE.
1992
BUDGET
City Council
14,980
16,240
, 20,860
7,760
18,860
19,360
Administration
405,500
393,610
477,210
195,450
475,420
484,430
Elections
5,550
29,250
18,750
7,430
14,800
38,010
Police
921,650
0
• 1,057,490
447,540
1,056,830
1,105,840
Fire
163,760
193,450
195,660
64,320
195,660
203,240
Code Enforcement
99,820
107,560
109,730
42,830
109,860
113,750
1 Public Works
Road & Bridge
317,200
317,920
365,320
139,580
363,720
384,440
Parks
162,410
245,000
234,030
81,050
235,430
284,510
Planning
59,190
53,650
62,080
23,660
• 63,900
59,470
lecycling
42,410
0
60,250
4,700
60,250
12,370
Animal Control
2,570
3,870
3,600
• 1,290
• 2,700
4,200
Contingency for
legal expenses
0
0
25,000
0
0
• 0
, Total General Fund
Expenditures
2,195,040
1,360,550
2,629,980
1,015,610
2,597,430
2,709,620
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FORM O -4C
BACK-UP DETAIL FOR CONTRACTUAL SERVICES
COMMODITIES
OTHER CHARGES _X_
(CHECK ONE)
FUNCTION
Public Works
DEPT.
Park & Recreation
DEPT. NO
70
ACTIVITY
Maintenance
SERVICE LEVEL
Maintenance
UNE
ITEM
UNE ITEM DETAIL
COST
4400
Conferences & Schools
200
4404
Membership Dues50
,
4410
Clothing Allowance
600
4415
Street Maintenance Material
1,600
4422
Water Readings
1,300
4425-315
Public Works Garage 100
4425-470
Hydrant Water Readings 1,200
4490
Sundry
4490
Tree Removal
4500
Recreation Management Contingency
k:kiatakNI.A.Q)J
870
2,500
14,500
TOTAL
21,620
RECREATION 'CONTINGENCY LINE ITEM - 1991
June 9, 1992
1. Budgeted Amount $ 14,500
2. Revenue
1991 Softball Fees
Total
3. Expenditures
Subsidized Programs
Arts -In -Park
Summer Adventure
T -Ball
$ 2,570
$ 2,570
$ 5,197
Softball Costs $ 3,826
Total $ 9,023
ceea C.rti,e4
exwA
ilmstmb •
R E3
Expenditures minus Revenues $ 6,453
Unspent 1991 Budget $ 8,047
June 9, 1992
DEMAND FOR SOFTBALL
1993
Men's Leagues Expressed Interest
Class "A"
Class "B"
Class "B" Industrial
Class "C"
Class "D"
Over "30"
1 Team
5 Teams
5 Teams
3 Teams
4 Teams
10 Teams (Current Thur.
• NightLeague)
Over "30" 2 Teams
Over "55" (non -sanctioned) 1 Team
Women's League
Class "C: 3 Teams
Industrial 1 Team
Co -Ed Softball 4 Teams
Kittenball 6 Teams (Current Sunday
Night League)
45 Teams
•-11)7{)cl..
a P
8 possible leagues
8 teams per league = 64 teams
4:r•
phsw,SolkA-r,-- (a. di/v. / 11'41.• •
PERMANENT PART TIME RECREATION COORDINATOR
1. Expenditures
20 hours per week at $9.53 per hour $ 9,911
Fringe (assume 4n) $ 3,964
Total $13,876
2. Possible Job Description
Hire and Supervise Rink Attendants
Organize softball, basketball, volleyball,,tennis, golf,
etc. leagues
Publish Recreation brochures and literature
Market Recreation programs
Administer parks and facilities reservations
Formulate and implement park rules, regulations, policies
Handle program registrations
Coordinate joint sponsorship with other municipalities
Act as liaison with park maintenance crews
3. Advantages
High level of service for reasonable cost
Permanent staff person gives •rec program stability
Consolidates various tasks in one job position
Allows City to expand recreation services
SEASONAL INTERN
1. Expenditures
20 hours per week
Eight months (Jan. - Aug.)
$6 - $8 per hour
Overhead
Total
2. Job Description
$3,840 to $5,120
$ 2,000
$ 7,000
Organize softball
Market, schedule, register softball
Handle parks and facilities reservations (8 months)
3. Advantages
Could be funded within existing budget
Could expand softball program
EXPANDED DUTIES - EXISTING STAFF
1. Expenditures
Readjust Staff duties (salary)
2. Job Description
Organize softball and other athletic leagues
Administer parks and facilities reservation
Hire and supervise rink attendants
Publish recreation literature
Market recreation programs
3. Advantages
Experience with existing softball leagues
Job Growth for existing employee
Allows City to expand softball program
$6,648
ASA/MSF Registration
Umpires
Balls
Trophies
District Playoffs
Printing & Misc.
Umpire Assigning Fee,
Fee Per Team $400.00
CITY OF WEST ST. PAUL
BUDGET - SLOW PITCH 1992
(8 Teams Per League)
$12.00 Per Team
$20.00 Per Game (64 Games)
$56.00 Per Dozen - 11 Dozen
2 Teams
$50.00 Per Team
$ 96.00
1,280.00
616.00
100.00
180.00
400.00
100.00
TOTAL $2,772.00
Total Revenues $3,200