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1995-04-11 Parks and Rec Comm Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AGENDA PARKS AND RECREATION COMIVIISSION APRIL 11, 1995 - 6:30 P.M. ** 6:30 o'clock p.m. ** 1. Call to Order. 2. Roll Call. 3. Approval of Marchl4, 1994 Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes. 4. Preliminary Discussion of Capital Improvements Plan for 1995 - 1999 6:30 to 7:00 o'clock p.m. 5. Ivy Hills Park - Neighborhood Open House - 7 :00 o'clock p.m. * Jim Hagstrom, Savanna Designs 6. Bridgeview Shores Trail - Neighborhood Open House - 8:00 o'clock p.m. 7. Joint Workshop with City Council 8. Discussion of Park Dedication for a Proposed Subdivision * Heaver's Ivy Falls South Addition 9. Updates * City Council Actions on T -Ball Fields and Mendakota Concessions * Invitation to Joint Meeting with Dakota County PARAC * Valley View Heights Request for Basketball Court * Pedal Power Camp * Nomination of Mendota Heights Fire Department * Schedule Trail Stencilling 10. Adjourn. 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 MINUTES MARCH 14, 1995 The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, March 14, 1995, in the City Hall Large Conference Room, 1101 Victoria Curve. The meeting was called to order at 6:40 o'clock P.M. The following members were present: Norton, Liberacki, Damberg, Linnell and Spicer. Commissioners Kleinglass and Libra were excused. Also present were Administrative Assistant Kevin Batchelder, Parks Project Manager Guy Kullander and Recreation Programmer Shelli Heinsch. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Linnell moved to approve the February 14, 1995 minutes with corrections. Commissioner Liberacki seconded the motion. AYES: 4 NAYS: 0 DISCUSS T -BALL FIELDS AT RESURRECTION CEMETERY Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated that following the Parks and Recreation Commission's recommendation to place two t -ball fields at the Public Works garage, the City Council instructed staff to contact Catholic Cemeteries, owners of Resurrection Cemetery, to inquire if temporary use of the unused portion of the cemetery could be used,as t-ball fields. Batchelder stated that Catholic Cemeteries had responded favorably and that City staff had met with Mendota Heights Athletic Association to discuss their needs for fields. Batchelder stated because the fast track nature of this project the request to fund this proposal proceeded directly to City Council on March 7, 1995. He stated the Council authorized $20,000 from the Special Park Fund to construct four youth fields (ages 5 -9) at Resurrection. Cemetery. Batchelder stated that staff will be meeting with Catholic Cemeteries to seek approval from their Board on the proposed site plan and the contents of a temporary use agreement. Batchelder stated that Council desired the Parks and Recreation Commission review this project as it proceeds. Batchelder stated that the City Council will consider a site plan and temporary use agreement on March 21, 1995. He stated the intent was to have these fields available for play by Mendota Heights Athletic Association in May. Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 2 Commissioner Norton stated that Catholic Cemeteries had agreed to place two t -ball fields for ages 4 -6 in their letter and she inquired if Catholic Cemeteries would agree to having larger fields with older children as specified by City Council. Parks Project Manager Kullander stated that t -ball fields have a forty -five foot long base path but that when you get up into the age bracket of 8 and 9 year olds you need a fifty -two foot base path and a bigger outfield that would need to be expanded. Kullander stated staff would be meeting with Catholic Cemeteries officials on Wednesday to discuss the site plan and the layouts. Batchelder stated that Mr. Cherek indicated he has Board approval to proceed under the parameters of the letter that had been addressed to us for two t -ball fields and that Mr. Cherek may or may not be able to approve this expanded site plan. Batchelder stated the Catholic Cemeteries Board does not meet again until the end of June. Kullander stated that in his discussions with the Cemetery, they had indicated they would not need this portion of the Cemetery for 5 -15 years, if at all. The Parks Commission discussed the use of $20,000 from the Special Park Fund to construct four youth fields. Batchelder informed the Commission there are pending subdivision proposals, one recently approved, before the City that would be bringing some cash dedications into the Special Park Fund. He stated this included $27,000 from Mendota Meadows, approximately $5,000 from the Bjorklund subdivision and an upcoming subdivision being proposed by a developer for 19 homes in the Cherry Hills /Knollwood Lane area. Commissioner Liberacki inquired if the City could establish grass by May. Kullander stated that Mendota Heights Athletic Association's priority for this age group is a skinned infield and because of the age of children, outfield play is not that important. Kullander stated the older kids, ages 8 and 9, will need a turf outfield and that requires more grading and more turf or seeding costs. Kullander explained the gravel parking and the existing road. Commissioner Liberacki inquired if it would be better for the City and the Cemetery if there was a new curb cut on Lexington Avenue and a separate entrance. Kullander stated that he had already inquired about this option and that the Cemetery did not like this idea. Kullander indicated the Cemetery wanted us to use the south entrance by the maintenance building and that they would block off the other entrance. Kullander stated the last funeral in any given day begins around 4:00 P.M. and that the Catholic Cemetery personnel have indicated Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 3 that the evening use by t- ballers was acceptable. Kullander stated that they had also indicated they did not desire any weekend play or practice. Kullander stated the older kids have a longer season and that the t -ball season is finished towards the end of June whereas the 8 and 9 year old age brackets play into July. Commissioner Norton inquired if Resurrection Cemetery has a long term plan where this area may become more of a permanent park plan. IVY HILLS PARK Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated the City Council had retained the service of Jim Hagstrom, of Savannah Design, to produce the landscape design at Ivy Hills Park. Batchelder stated the Parks Commission had requested two plans from Mr. Hagstrom, one plan being a traditional landscaping look and the other plan being a more native grass /wildflower look. He stated Mr. Hagstrom had prepared two concept plans including a mix of traditional landscaping and native grass /wildflowers with alternatives for the Parks and Recreation Commission to pick and choose from. Mr. Jim Hagstrom, of Savannah Design, presented a slide show to provide background on what, where, when and how you design, plant and maintain a native grass /wildflower, natural landscape design. Mr. Hagstrom showed a slide of a Savannah grass land with oak trees that is native and indigenous to the Midwest and the State of Minnesota. Hagstrom highlighted the different types of grasses, flowers and trees in this landscape. Mr. Hagstrom pointed out this is an ecological design that does not need water, pesticide, or fertilizer and it thrives because of its biodiversity. Mr. Hagstrom stated this means that there are quite a few species of plant materials. Mr. Hagstrom showed a slide of a very well maintained golf course that had very few species of plant material, was maintenance heavy, a very controlled environment, with an ethic of maximum care and attention. Mr. Hagstorm showed a series of slides demonstrating prairie grasses and wildflowers. Mr. Hagstrom stated there was a high diversity of species in a seeded natural prairie grass landscape. Mr. Hagstrom pointed out this may not look neat and cared for as compared to a lawn that is maintenance intensive, environmentally unsound and expensive to operate. Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 4 Mr. Hagstrom stated a good design for prairie grass and wildflowers can use shapes and geometry in a spatial pattern to make it look more neat and cared for. Mr. Hagstrom showed some slides of short grass prairies including landscape designs at a home that includes groupings of wildflowers but is arranged in a formal pattern to look well maintained. Mr. Hagstrom showed another slide with a seeded prairie grass area that looked more unkept. Mr. Hagstrom stated the point of these slides is to discover the point at which a viewer would consider a prairie grass landscape to be messy or whether they would consider it to be . a well organized prairie garden. The Commission inquired about maintenance for prairie grass and native wildflowers. Mr. Hagstrom stated that some maintenance will be necessary and that it may need to be burned on occasion and for the first couple of years there may need to be some weeding done. Mr. Hagstrom estimated that one or two hours of weeding a couple times a summer for the first few years would get these prairie grasses going. Mr. Hagstrom stated it is a different maintenance regime than sitting on a tractor and mowing grass. Mr. Hagstrom stated that any landscape design should recognize that people want to see order. Mr. Hagstrom showed some slides that demonstrate hedges, lawns, and traditional plantings that are mixed with wildflowers and groupings of native grasses in a geometric fashion. Mr. Hagstrom showed a slide of a pond area that had native grasses seeded to the pond edge, including many flowers. Mr. Hagstrom showed a slide of a slope area where you have a lawn on the boulevard and then a prairie garden begins on the sloped area. Mr. Hagstrom stated this was very similar to the situation at Ivy Hills Park. Mr. Hagstrom stated that if you seed this type of prairie garden it takes a few years to establish itself, however, if you plant it with plugged plants it is quicker but more expensive. Mr. Hagstrom showed a slide of a sign stating this was an environmentally sensitive landscape. Mr. Hagstrom said it may be important for viewers to know that this type of natural landscape gardening has a purpose and intent. Mr. Hagstrom showed several slides that demonstrated the seasonal changes and the different shades and textures during the different seasons depending on the flowers blooming and the grass growing. Mr. Hagstrom showed a slide of a seeded prairie that lacked a pattern or neatness and did not have Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 5 geometric shapes. Mr. Hagstrom stated this slide showed a seeded prairie approximately five years after it had been seeded. Mr. Hagstrom showed how a mowed path could be cut along the top of the berm at Ivy Falls Park. Mr. Hagstrom showed a slide of water plantings including cattails and other types of pond plantings that could be used to define the edge of the wetlands at Ivy Park. Mr. Hagstrom stated that certain species of grass and wild plants could be planted along the edge of the pond to make it look inaccessible and to hide some of the concrete structures. Chair Spicer arrived at 7:20 o'clock P.M. Commissioner Damberg inquired if the natural wildflower approach could include plants that attract butterflies including milkweed, blazing stars and cardinal flowers. While Mr. Hagstrom prepared some site plans to be placed on the wall for discussion, the Parks and Recreation Commission invited the Valley View Heights neighborhood into the meeting to discuss their request for a half court basketball. VALLEY VIEW HEIGHTS REQUEST FOR IMPROVEMENTS Chair Spicer stated that at the January meeting the Parks and Recreation Commission met with representatives of the Curley neighborhood to discuss their ideas for improvements to Valley View Heights Park. Spicer stated that specifically they had requested that a half court basketball be placed in the tot lot in this area. Spicer stated there had been some confusion over whether Valley View Heights Park was an "official" City park and that Parks and Recreation Commission had recommended that City Council determine the status of this tot lot and then the Commission would try to determine the appropriate method to address this request. Six residents of Curley neighborhood were present. Mr. Dave Ayers, acting as spokesperson for the Curley neighborhood, stated that staff has looked into the status of Valley View Heights Park and has found a 1989 memo and City Council minutes at which time Curley tot lot had been renamed and designated as Valley View Heights Park. Mr. Ayers stated the reason this is significant is that at the past Commission meeting there had been a discussion whether or not this was indeed a City park. Ayers stated the City has already taken this position, as made apparent by the 1989 minutes from the City Council meeting, that this had been renamed and designated as Valley View Heights Park. Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 6 Mr. Ayers stated the residents of Curley neighborhood certainly consider this to be a park and that it has been officially named. Chair Spicer stated that the Curley neighborhood wants a half court basketball to be installed at Valley View Heights Park, however all of the remaining referendum funds are earmarked at this time. Spicer stated the Parks and Recreation Commission would be discussing the next Five Year Capital Improvement Plan in the near future and that they would consider funding for Valley View Heights Park, as part of this discussion. Spicer stated this improvement, if it is determined to go on the Capital Improvement Plan, may not be immediately done this year but it may be put off to a future year. Mr. Ayers stated he and his neighborhood would be very concerned if this gets carried over into 1996 where it may be forgotten. Chair Spicer stated the Capital Improvements Plan is followed up closely every year and items are not removed without a good reason. Mr. Ayers stated it was his understanding that improvements to this park were to be forthcoming from the 1989 Parks Referendum. Mr. Ayers stated that he understands there is no more money left in the referendum funding and that he feels the neighborhood would feel cheated if these improvements were not made this year. Mr. Ayers stated the neighborhood feels that not much has been done with this park and that the perception is the referendum improvements were never made in this park. Ayers stated staff had indicated there were some items from the 1995 Capital Improvement Plan that would not be built and perhaps those funds could be used in this area. Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated that the 1995 Capital Improvement Plan had $3,500 intended to be spent in Ivy Hills Park, however, these items would now be funded as part of the Ivy Falls Storm Project in the landscape design that is currently being done at Ivy Hills Park. Chair Spicer stated there are two thresholds of decision on this issue. Spicer stated the first is the question of whether or not this is an official City park, and the second question is should the Parks and Recreation Commission recommend improvements for a half court basketball. Commissioner Linnell moved to recommend that the City Council formally and officially designate Valley View Heights Park as a part of the City's park system. Commissioner Damberg seconded the motion. A friendly amendment was added to the motion stating that as an official park the City would maintain this park and treat it as part of the City's park system. Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 7 Commissioner Norton inquired what impacts would there be from naming this an official park in terms of maintenance and liability. Commissioner Norton inquired if there were other areas in the City that would be subject to the same consideration if this were approved. The Commission felt that this was a unique situation and that the Friendly Hills Tot Lot did not have active uses similar to the Valley View Heights Park. Mr. Ayers stated that their neighborhood feels this is a unique situation also and that they are locked in by highways or busy streets on all sides. Commissioner Norton stated there are other neighborhoods that have less access to parks than the Curley neighborhood. She stated the Mayfield Heights neighborhood has been to the Parks Commission on a number of occasions requesting a trail link because they are much more inaccessible to the park system. Norton stated that she is concerned that this park is being backdoored into the City's system. Commissioner Norton stated the previous agreement with the Homeowner's Association stated they would be responsible for the maintenance of this park in return for the improvements. Commissioner Norton stated that these improvements probably never would have been put onto this lot that the City owned had it not been for this Agreement. Mr. Ayers stated there has been turnover in the neighborhood and there is no longer an active Association. Commissioner Linnell stated that the City probably never should have put improvements onto this lot, but, it is too late now and that it should be considered a park. Commissioner Damberg stated that she remembers voting against the decision to do that. Chair Spicer stated it was probably a bad decision to place improvements in this park but to leave it unattended at this point would be a worse decision. Commissioner Norton stated that having the City maintain this park is a step further than what has been done in the past. The Commission voted on the motion to officially include Valley View Heights Park in the City's park system and to maintain it. AYES: 5 NAYS: 0 The Commission discussed the Capital Improvement Plan. Commissioner Norton stated the City has spent many hours on designing the Capital Improvement Plan with detailed examinations of priorities. Mr. Ayers stated their neighborhood seems to have been overlooked when the Capital Improvement Plan was considered. The Commission discussed the Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 8 improvements that had been promised for this neighborhood in the referendum. Parks Project Manager Kullander stated all of the improvements-promised, such as signs, tables, benches, trashers and the grading and seeding necessary to establish a lawn in this location had been accomplished. Mr. Ayers stated that these items were ultimately accomplished over a number of years but basically all the neighborhood received was a picnic table, a bike rack and a trash bin and that these are not major expenditures for the City's park system. The Commission inquired if the neighbors on either side of the tot lot had been contacted about whether they oppose a half court basketball. Mr. Ayers stated that the Anderson's had been contacted and had indicated they are not concerned about basketball and that the neighbors on the other side of the bike path have not been available. Chair Spicer stated the Parks and Recreation Commission would be discussing the Capital Improvement Plan later, however, the Parks and Recreation Commission may not be prepared to make a commitment to the neighborhood at this time. He stated that this would have be considered as part of the Capital Improvements and the other various priorities. Mr. Ayers inquired if the Parks Commission would give serious consideration for doing this in 1995. Chair Spicer stated that yes, the Parks Commission would give this some consideration, however, there are other priorities and limited financing. Commissioner Liberacki inquired about organized sports and the level of support in the park referendum fdt various items. The Commission discussed the history of the park referendum and the Citizen's Park Review Committee with Commissioner Liberacki. Commissioner Liberacki inquired if these types of issues are typically initiated by neighborhoods or initiated by the City. Liberacki stated that in this case, we have the Curley neighborhood coming in and requesting that the City do something and put in an improvement, as opposed to the Kensington neighborhood where the City had desired to do certain improvements and the neighborhood was opposed to it. Mr. Ayers stated he would hope the Parks and Recreation Commission consider placing this half court basketball on the 1995 CIP plan. Mr. Ayers stated that the perception in the neighborhood is that they did not get what they were promised in the referendum. Mr. Ayers stated the neighborhood is looking for something more significant in their local park and Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 9 that it has been six years since the referendum was approved. Mr. Ayers stated that the neighborhood would like to see something in 1995. The Parks and Recreation Commission directed staff to contact Mr. Ayers and the neighborhood when this item will be discussed as part of the Capital Improvement Plan. Commissioner Norton stated she feels there are other neighborhoods in the City that do not have access to the parks system, particularly the Mayfield Heights neighborhood, where she believes the trail link to this neighborhood was never adequately addressed by the City. Norton stated that there are many young children in this neighborhood and they do not have adequate trail access. CONTINUATION OF IVY HILLS PARK LANDSCAPE DESIGN Mr. Jim Hagstrom presented a site analysis to the Parks and Recreation Commission including the possibilities with the berm and pond area as well as the constraints in this area. Mr. Hagstrom described the site layout with the berm having steep slopes both on a south facing sunny side and north facing shady side. Hagstrom stated there is a flat open play area north of the pond and he described the locations of the sewer outlets and concrete skimmers. Mr. Hagstrom stated that the whole area at this time is simply grass lawn. Mr. Hagstrom stated that the berm had been seeded half grass, half wildflowers and that there is a wood chip access trail that goes up and over the top of the berm in the southwest corner of the park. Mr. Hagstrom located the evet'green trees that had been tree spaded and replanted along the eastern border of Ivy Hills Park. Mr. Hagstrom showed where a little erosion had occurred in the drainage swale entering the pond. Mr. Hagstrom stated that the top of the ridge on the berm has the possibility of having a loop trail, however he stated the wood chip path that goes up and over the berm is probably too steep and should be removed. Mr. Hagstrom presented his two concept sketches showing where prairie grass and native wildflower areas could be established. Mr. Hagstrom stated that on the north slope of the berm, in the southwest corner of the pond, some trees should be planted to shade the pond as well as having some bushes and shrubs around the concrete skimmers to hide and create a barrier. Mr. Hagstrom stated his concept plan shows approximately 30 percent of the area being naturalized with most of the pond Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 10 edge being native grasses and wildflowers. Hagstrom stated it would be possible to put a stone retaining wall for a flower garden next to the path that exists in Ivy Falls Park. Mr. Hagstrom stated that he had been given an indication that the local neighbors or garden club may wish to maintain a garden in this area and he feels this would be a good spot for it. Mr. Hagstrom also inquired if the Parks Commission wanted a sign at the entrance. Mr. Hagstrom demonstrated alternatives between the two concept plans that he was presenting with one alternative including more prairie grass on the slopes and the second alternative showing more woods, bushes and trees. Commissioner Damberg inquired how Mr. Hagstrom proposes to screen the concrete skimmers. Mr. Hagstrom stated that bushes and shrubs would be used to hide the skimmers and to act as a barrier to the skimmers. Hagstrom stated there would not be any lawn leading up to the skimmers and inviting access to it. Mr. Hagstrom inquired about the path along the top of the berm. The Parks and Recreation Commission discussed whether the path should be asphalt, gravel or mowed grass. Mr. Hagstrom advised against a mowed grass path as these grasses will spread into the prairie area. Mr. Hagstrom described how the path loops around the pond and where benches could be located using the stones available at Acacia Cemetery. Mr. Hagstrom stated his intent was that the Parks Commission look at these two concept plans and pick the alternatives that they like so that they can mix and match natural areas with turf, trees and natural plantings. Chair Spicer inquired of the Parks Commission to indicate those designs on the concept plans that they like and would desire that Mr. Hagstrom pursue in his design. Chair Spicer stated that he likes the idea of a gravel trail around the top of the berm and that he agrees we should eliminate the wood chip trail over the berm. The Parks and Recreation Commission discussed whether the trails should be gravel or bituminous. Parks Project Manager Kullander stated the City currently has two gravel trails, one in Copperfield Ponds area and the other in Friendly Marsh Park and that people are always inquiring about when the City is going to pave these trails. Kullander estimated that it would cost approximately $4,000 for a bituminous trail along the top of the berm. The Commission stated that this is approximately 1/3 of the budget. The Commission indicated to Mr. Hagstrom that they would like the trail to be shown as gravel now and that paving it could be considered in the future. Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 11 Chair Spicer stated he likes the buffer area between the lawn of the Homeowner's Association of the townhouses labeled the pine area. Chair Spicer stated the space for the Garden Club with the rock retaining wall sounds like a good idea. Commissioner Norton stated she prefers the concept plan that shows the heavier use of native grasses and wildflowers and that this type of low maintenance, natural landscape should be used as much as possible on the steep slopes and around the edge of the pond. She stated the City should be demonstrating more ecologically sound landscaping methods. The Parks and Recreation Commission agreed that most of the pond edge should be prairie grass and native wildflowers with one lawn opening along the north edge of the pond. The Commission agreed that shrub plantings should be used to hide and screen the skimmers and act as a barrier. Commissioner Norton stated that we are trying to educate people about low maintenance landscaping and that she feels a small sign stating this is an environmentally sensitive landscape should be installed. The Commission agreed. Commissioner Liberacki stated that this landscape plan must be integrated with the traditional look of the Ivy Hills neighborhood. Liberacki stated there should be a woody look to this area and he feels that this is how it looked before the pond construction occurred. Commissioner Liberacki stated the other corners at the intersection are also wooded areas. Liberacki stated that he would prefer a backdrop using a woody mix of plant material with some grasses mixed in. Mr. Liberacki stated it may be more appropriate for a woody mix versus a grass mix on the north slope of the berm and that these plant materials would be heartier than wildflowers and native grasses. Commissioner Liberacki stated that this could be referred to as a naturalized landscape plan versus a prairie grass landscape plan. Liberacki stated that he favors fewer grasses and more trees and shrubs. Mr. Hagstrom described what he called the "pitcher's mound" where some manhole covers are, he shows a small prairie garden with bench area. The Parks Commission agreed that using this area as a garden is a good idea. The Parks Commission wanted to minimize the use of stones for retaining walls due to their expense. Chair Spicer indicated that the less lawn and turf to mow, the better. Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 12 Mr. Hagstrom inquired about the water edge, whether it should be seed prairie grass, wetlands plantings, or some type of stone/rock edge. The Commission indicated that they feel wetlands plants will come back naturally and that this should be seeded prairie grass edge. The Parks Commission indicated that the pine tree area shown on the concept plan should be enhanced with some additional pine trees and that this could be shown as a concept to plant in the future. The Commission directed Mr. Hagstrom to use as many plant plugs near the entrances and more visible points and use seeding in other areas, as the budget allows. The Parks and Recreation Commission instructed staff to call an open house for their April Parks and Recreation Commission meeting so that Mr. Hagstrom can present his landscape design plans to the neighborhood. RECREATION PROGRAMING DISCUSSION Recreation Programmer Shelli Heinsch stated that at the December meeting the Commission had reviewed the City's recreation programs. Heinsch stated the Commission had indicated a desire to consider joint planning with neighboring communities to implementing more passive recreational activities and to examine additional programs that could be added to the City's recreation programming. Heinsch stated that the Commission had also directed staff to research staffing levels of similar sized communities and to generate ideas on the most feasible or practical prog'rams that could be added. Heinsch explained a new program that had been advertised in the February Heights Highlites that was a parent child exercise to build a bird house that was being conducted by a naturalist from Mendota Heights. Heinsch stated that this program would be a couple of hours on a Saturday morning and is open to 20 parent/child partners and that at this point, the program is almost full. Heinsch described the adult softball program and stated that registration ends next week. She described the in-line skating lessens that would occur in May and June. Heinsch stated that new golf leagues will be forming at the Mendota Heights Par 3 that would begin in May and June of this year. Heinsch stated that the City is going to be offering golf Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 13 leagues to seniors, women and juniors. Ms. Heinsch stated that the Mendota Heights Par 3 has been very cooperative and will help with any of the administrative details of .running this league and keeping scores. Heinsch described the volleyball leagues for this upcoming summer, the nature camp and the fact that a concert in the park with Trisha and the Toons was scheduled for July 8. Heinsch stated there were ongoing meetings about some environmental activity programming. Chair Spicer stated the survey done by staff indicated that most Cities of comparable size in the metro area have one or more full time park and recreation staff people. Spicer stated if the City intended to add more recreational programming, that we are going to need additional supervision and staffing levels. Chair Spicer stated he thinks it is time for the City to have some recreation staff on a full time basis. The Parks and Recreation Commission discussed staffing levels at different cities and in Mendota Heights. Commissioner Norton moved to recommend that City Council ) direct staff to begin examination and analysis of a full time position in the recreation department that would enable the City to increase the recreational programming activities in Mendota Heights. Commissioner Damberg seconded the motion. AYES: 5 NAYS: 0 Chair Spicer stated that he thinks recreation programming could increase through joint programs with neighboring cities. Heinsch stated that currently the winter time activities are the most difficult to program because the City is very limited with gymnasium space and court time or finding indoor space for recreational activities. Commissioner Linnell stated that the City should be first in line to discuss gymnasium space and meeting space with the school district as they are planning their new middle school at the Friendly Hills site. Commissioner Damberg stated that staff should begin talks with ISD No. 197 about using the middle school for recreational programming. Commissioner Norton stated she would like see the City program some type of cross country skiing at the Par 3 in the winter and perhaps this could be done in conjunction with the local school. Norton stated she would like to see more programming that uses the trail system including nature walks for adults with a naturalist. Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 14 The Parks and Recreation Commission discussed joint programming with both Dakota County and West St. Paul. Heinsch stated that she had been contacted by an individual in Mendota Heights about an adult tennis league and that she had contacted the City of West St. Paul. She stated that West St. Paul appears to be interested and that currently discussions are ongoing about a new tennis league for adults in which the City would advertise and handle registrations but that would be run by the participants in the league. Chair Spicer stated that the Mendota Heights Athletic Association is talking about summer and fall basketball leagues for girl's and boy's. DISCUSSION OF MENDAROTA PARK CONCESSION STAND Administrative Assistant Batchelder stated that the City has been informed by the Fire Relief Association that they do not intend to operate the Mendakota Park Concession stand in 1995. Batchelder stated that the Fire Relief Association had operated the concession stand in 1993 and 1994. He stated that this decision by the Fire Relief Association leaves a void in the operation of the concession stand for the upcoming softball season. Batchelder stated some possible options are available to the _City for the operation of this concession stand including: 1. Operation by a non-profit group under similar terms as the Fire Relief Association. Batchelder stated this could include Mendota Heights Athletic Association, Sibley Sting, a school organization or club, etc. 2. Operation by the City. 3. Contracting with a private operator under a lease agreement. 4. Part time operation for tournaments or big events only without opening the concession stand for the Monday through Friday evening softball leagues. 5. Not operate the concession stand. The Parks Commission discussed asking schools or booster groups in the area if they would be interested in operating the concession stand. Chair Spicer suggested that the • Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 15 Commission direct staff to do two things: 1) limited advertising for a private operator and 2) contact booster groups in the City such as Sibley Sting, Mendota Heights Athletic Association, the Band Club, St. Thomas, Visitation and St. Joseph's, etc., to see what interest level there is in operating this concession stand and that this could be brought back before the Parks Commission at their next meeting for further discussion. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN The Parks and Recreation Commission tabled discussion of the Capital Improvement Plan until their April .meeting. The Commission directed staff to make this item number 1 on the April agenda so that the Commission can adequately discuss plans in preparation for the 1996 Budget. Commissioner Linnell stated that it appears that Wentworth Park is getting a large share of Capital Improvements for 1995 including possible bridges or culverts, a picnic shelter and some other improvements. Linnell inquired if we should invite the neighborhood in when the Parks and Recreation Commission discuses these improvements. The Parks and Recreation Commission was informed that neighbors in Bridgeview Shores had appeared at the March 7 City Council meeting in opposition of a trail segment that had been included as part of the Mendota Heights/Dodd Road signal project. Batchelder stated that the City Council had desired that the Parks and Recreation Commission consider this item and that notice be provided to the neighborhood for an open house meeting to discuss this trail segment. He stated that this item had been scheduled for April 11, 1995 meeting of the Parks Commission. He stated that the neighbors will be contacted by letter to attend this meeting. The Parks and Recreation Commission provided direction for staff on the order of the agenda to discuss the Capital Improvement Plan, the open house for the Ivy Hills Park discussion and the open house for the Bridgeview Shores trail. Batchelder distributed copies of the approved revised park reservation policy. The Commission discussed the fact that the Mendota Heights Athletic Association had been getting signatures on a petition during their signups for baseball and softball and that they would be petitioning the City to have youth baseball play available at Mendakota Park. The Commission discussed the use of netting and softball versus baseball at Mendakota Park. Parks and Recreation Commission March 14, 1995 Page 16 ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the Parks and Recreation Commission adjourned its meeting at 9:15 o'clock P.M. Respectfully submitted, Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant Th CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO February 9, 1995 To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assist Subject: Preliminary Discussion of Capital Improvements Plan for 1994 -99 DISCUSSION The Parks and Recreation Commission finalized the development of a Five Year Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) in June of 1994. This document was used in the development of the 1995 Budget and, it provides a blueprint for the consideration of future capital needs in the park system. This CIP should be reviewed and updated on an annual basis. Attached you will find a copy of the CIP and a memo from Guy Kullander outlining the Special Park Fund, 1995 expenditures in the budget, and the referendum fund. The Commission should begin discussing the CIP, review the 1995 program and consider capital needs for 1999. This discussion is to provide direction to staff and to request analysis of any particular needs that might be included. ACTION REQUIRED Begin discussions and annual review of the Capital Improvements Plan and provide direction to staff. MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARK SYSTEM FIVE YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN Expenditures Proposed for 1994 PARKIITEM 1. 14 Parks or facilities - Safety & Regulatory Signage 2. Landscape plantings for land dedication at Ivy Park 3. Grade Swales and Ice area to drain 4. Upgrade Wentworth Park play equipment Add accessible elements. Handicap park north of Highway 110 5. Replace wood bridge in Valley Park with steel and wood bridge. Council approved 1993. 6. Connect hard court to street or trail in Rogers Lake and Friendly Hills Parks. ADA upgrade. 7. Repair rubberized play surface at Mendakota Park Safety issue 8. Enlarge free skating rink - add lights and poles as necessary at Friendly Hills Park & ADA Improements 9. Improvements to North Kensington Park 10. Install 2 grills in South Kensington Park 11. Sod for repairs at Kensington soccer fields Proposed 1994 Expenditures GENERAL FUND SPECIAL PARK REFERENDUM $5,700.00 See 1994 City. Budget $300.00 $10- 15,000 $10,000.00 $2,000.00 $22 to $27,300 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $1,500.00 $2,000.00 $25,000 $600.00 $450.00 NOTE: The only expenditure listed in this document that has been approved by Council is item #5 for calender year 1994. $37,250 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARK SYSTEM FIVE YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN Expenditures Proposed for 1995 pg 1 1. Switch/relocate warming houses at Ivy and Wentworth Parks. Make ADA Improvements such as ramps, railings and pathway. Remove excess poles and lights at Ivy Park. 2. Develop wildflower planting areas In 4 parks Valley, Copperfreid Victoria Highlands and Marie Park 3. Install 2 benches near pond in Ivy Park 4. Install concrete bleacher pads In two parks 5. Construct rock landscape wall at berm near south entrance to park 6. Develop, print, distribute and display park & trail maps - 11 locations 7. Construct enclosures for Port - A Poties In two parks 8. Construct enclosures for Port A- Potie In Mendakota Park. Upgrade materials to match existing structures 9. Wildflower maintenance & expansion 10. Enhance trees and landscape plantings in two parks per year 11. Resurface tennis court at Rogers Lake Park 12. Replace 3 wood bridges with culverts or steel bridges - safety and ADA issue GENERAL FUND SPECIAL PARK REFERENp(rM $1,500.00 $1.000.00 $1.000.00 $300.00 $500.00 $3,500.00 $12 to 25,000 $6,000.00 $600.00 $1,000.00 $2,500.00 $5,500.00 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARK_ SYSTEM FIVE YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN Expenditures Proposed for 1995 pg 2 13. Install 2 grills in Wentworth Park 14. Reroof shelter in Valley Park 15. Repaint hard court in Rogers Lake Park & Friendly Hills Park 16. Replace 2 of 5 benches in Rogers Lake Park 17. Resurface basketball court at Mendakota Park 18. Enlarge ballfield warning track. One per year - 5 total 19. Replace trees at Mendakota Park 20. Replace two grills removed/damaged. In Rogers Lake Park 21. Construct picnic shelter in Wentworth Park 22. Raise Power Lines at S. Kensington Park 23. Construct tennis court at Hagstrom King Park Proposed 1995 Expenditures GENERAL FUND SPECIAL PARK REFERENDUM $600.00 $1,500.00 $300.00 $700.00 $1,500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $600.00 $24,400 to 37,400 $12 to 18,000 $22 to 28,100 $25,000.00 $35,000.00 $65,500.00 MENDOTA HELGI1TS PARK SYSTEM .FIVE YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN Expenditures Proposed for 1996 1. Enhance tree and landscape plantings in two parks 2. Wildflower maintenance 3. Enclosures for Port A Poties in two parks 4. Concrete bleacher pads in two parks 5. Reroof shelter In Rogers Lake Park 6. Paint/stain structures in Mendakota Park 7. Replace 1 of 5 benches In Rogers Lake Park 8. Resurface tennis court In Ivy Falls Park Modify tennis court fence opening to meet ADA at Wentworth Park 10. Replace wood bridge with bit. walkway in Rogers Lake Park 11. Resurface trail thni Rogers Lake Park 12. Enlarge warning track one per year - 5 total 13. Reshape gravel trails in Friendly Marsh Park and Copperfield Ponds 14. Resurface Lexington Ave. trail 15. Construct picnic shelter in Friendly Hills Park Proposed 1996 Expenditures GENERAL FUND $500.00 $500.00 $1,000.00 $1,500.00 $1,500.00 $2 to 4,000 $350.00 $3,500.00 $500.00 $1,500.00 $3,000.00 $500.00 $1,500.00 $2,500.00 SPECIAL PARK $12 to 18,000 $20 to 22,350 1 $12 to 18,000 REFERENDUM $0.00 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARK SYSTEM FIVE YEAR CAPJTAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN Expenditures Proposed for 1997 1. Enhance tree and landscape plantings in two parks 2. Wildflower maintenance and expansion 3. Enclosures for 2 Port-A -Poties 4. Concrete bleacher pads in two parks 5. Paint/stain structures at Kensington Park 6. Resurface tennis court at Marie Park 7. Construct two wayside rest areas with benches in Valley Park 8. Replace two of 5 benches in Rogers Lake Park 9. Expand sprinkler system at Mendakota Park 10. Enlarge waming track 3rd of 5 total 11. Seal coat trail in Valley View Heights Park 12. Seal coat Mendota Heights Road Delaware to Dodd 13. Upgrade play equipment in Hagstrom King Park ADA & Safety 14. Bench along Victoria Trail 15. Basketball hoop at S. Kensington Park Proposed 1997 Expenditures GENERAL FUND $500.00 $500.00 $1,000.00 $1,500.00 $2,500.00 $3,500.00 $700.00 $6,000.00 $500.00 $500.00 $5,000.00 $22,200.00 SPECIAL PARK $2,000.00 $5 to 8,000 $500.00 $500.00 $8 to 11,000 REFERENDUM $0.00 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARK SYSTEM FIVE YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT P N Expenditures Proposed for 1998 1. Enhance trees and landscape plantings in two parks 2. Maintain and expand wildflower plantings 3. Enclosures for 2 Port A -Polies 4. Concrete bleacher pads at two locations 5. Resurface tennis court at Friendly Hills Park 6. Install two horseshoe pits at Rogers Lake Park 7. Enlarge waming track at Mendakota Park4of5 Repair /replace rubberized surface at Mendakota Park 9. Restripe parking lot at Kensington Park (every 5 years) 10. Enhance tree plantings at Kensington Park . 11. ADA upgrades to Marie Park warming house Proposed 1998 Expenditures • GENERAL FUND SPECIAL PARK REFERENDUM $500.00 $500.00 $1,000.00 $1,500.00 $3,500.00 $500.00 $3 to 5,000 $200.00 $500.00 $2,000.00 $13 to 15,200 $1,500.00 $1,500.00 1 $0.00 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARK SYSTEM FIVE YEAR CAPITAL. IMPROVEMENT PLAN Expenditures Proposed for 1999 SENERAL FUND 1. Enhance trees and landscape plantings in two parks $500.00 2. Wildflower maintenance and expansion $500.00 3. Enclosures for 2 Port-A Polies $1,000.00 4. Concrete bleacher pads in 2 parks $1,500.00 5. Resurface tennis courts in Wentworth $3,500.00 Park 6. Resurface (seal coat) 8 park parking lots $4,800.00 7. Restripe 8 paridng lots and hard courts $1,225.00 8. Seal coat trails in Ivy Park, Mendakota Park, Friendly Hills Park and Hagstrom King Park 9. Modify /upgrade play equipment to meet ADA in Valley Park $7,000.00 10. Enlarge warning track at Civic Center Field last of 5 fields $500.00 11. Modify trail grades from Park Place to Valley Park Proposed 1999 Expenditures $20,525.00 SPECIAL PARK REFERENDUM $4,000.00 'l $4,000.00 1 $0.00 January 13, 1995 Memo to: From: Subject: Parks and Recreation Commission Guy Kullaner, -Parks Project Manager Park improvement projects in 1995 The following improvements are included in the 1995 budget. FUNDED FROM SPECIAL PARK FUND 1. Wentworth Park Bridges & culvert $ 2. Switch warming houses at Wentworth & Ivy plus ADA improvements (ramps, railing, path, etc)...$ 3. Wildflower plantings at 4 parks $ 4,. Ivy Park benches and, planters $ 5. Wentworth Park grills (2) $ 6. Wentworth Park Picnic Shelter $ No longer needed. Can be part of Ivy Falls Storm Project Landscape improvements budgeted at $ 25,000. Several projects scheduled for 1994 were not completed and can be accomplished in 1995..which were funded by Special Park 1. Replace wooden bridge in Valley Park $ 10,000 2. Complete upgrade of play, equipment @ Wentworth $ 5,000 ** 25,000 '61-000 600 (3,500 * *) 600 18,000 Total funds required to complete above projects $ 65,200 m GENERAL FUND IMPROVEMENTS Improvements included in 1995 budget not funded by Special Fund or Referendum Fund 1. Sweep trails (approx) 15 miles $ 1,000 2. Seal coat Mendakota Park Trail 2,000 3. Concrete bleacher pads in two parks 1,500 4. Port -a -potie enclosures in three parks 2, 000 5. Wildflower maintenance or expansion X300 6. Resurface tennis courts at Roger's Lake Park3,500 7. Repari roof at Valley Park 1,500 500 8. Replace two damaged benches at Roger's Lake700 9. Resurface basketball. court at Mendakota Park1,500 10.Widen ballfield warning track,one field per year 500 11.Replace trees at Mendakota Park 500 12.Replace two /grills at Wentworth Park 600 Park $ 15,600 January 13, 1995 Page 2 Referendum items are not included in the City Budget. The following items were identified by the commission as possible projectswhere the use of Referendum funds would be appropriate. All projects were included in either the 1994 or 1995 Five Year Parks Capital Improvement Plan. 1. Safety and regularoty signage in 14 parks or facilities$ 5,700 2. Bituminous trails to connect two hardcourts (ADA) 1,000 3. Repair rubberized play top at Mendakota (SAfety/ADA) 1,500 4. Improvements to North Kensington Park 25,000 5. Install two grills at South Kensington Park 600 6. Develop, print, distribute and display .park & trail maps5,500 7. Raise power lines at south Kensington Park if necessary25,000 8. Construct tennis courts at Hagstrom-King Park ' 35,000 $ 99,300 FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR PARK & TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS Revenue from bond sales $ 3,386,362 Other revenues 131,357 -MSA-Marie Ave Trail -County-Delaware Trail -Water Utility Fund-Mendakota Loop . Total Funds $ 3,517,719 EXPENDITURES 1989 $ 139,256 1990 1,026i245 1991 782,238. 1992 581,009 1993 102,059' 1994 31,792 $ 3,462,590 REMAINING FUNDS $ 55,120.00 ) January 13, 1995 Page 3 STATUS OF SPECIAL PARK FUND Balance in fund 12/31/93 Cash contributions in 1994 Interest earned in 1994 Expenditures from fund in1994.... $ 410,987 15,355 20,000. (16,358) Balance in Special Park Fund 12/31/94 429,964 Anticipated additions in 1995 1. Mendota Meadows 36 lots x $750= 27,0.00 2. Swanson's 2nd Add. 7 x $ 750 = 5,250 3. Interest 22,000 Apporoximate size of fund in 1995...$484,214 (Fund balanceat end of 1991=$350,000, 1992=$392,000) When the Mendakota Park land was acquired the outstanding utility and street assessments were to be paid for by the City. Tliru 1994 these assessment were paid for from referendum funds. • Beginning in 1995 the Special Park Fund will now continue to pay off the balance due. The following are the amounts to be paid each year from the Special Park Fund. 1995... $ 12,383.04 1996... 11,706.92 1997... 6,160.12 (Street portion paid off in 1996) 1998... 5,873.60 1999... 5,587.08 2000... 5,300.56 2001... 5,014.04 2002... 4,727.54 2003... 4,441.02 2004... 4,154.50 2005... 3,868.02 Last Payment ACTION REQUIRED No action is required. The above information is for use when the commission discusses updating the Five Year Parks Imporvement Plan. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO April 6, 1995 To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assistant Subject: Ivy Hills Park Landscape Design - Neighborhood Open House 7:00 to 7:45 p.m. DISCUSSION The Parks and Recreation Commission will be hosting an Open House with neighborhood residents beginning at 7:00 o'clock p.m. in the City Council Chambers. It is anticipated that the Commission will reconvene at 7:45 p.m. in the Conference Room to discuss final plans and a recommendation to City Council. Mailed notice has been sent to every property owner within 500 ft. of Ivy Falls Park and press releases have been published in the SouthWest Review and the Sun Current. (See attached copies of letter and notices.) Mr. Jim Hagstrom, of Savanna Designs, will be providing a presentation on the design that has been sketched for the pond restoration. A blueprint copy has been provided in the Park and Recreation Commission packets. (Please see attached.) Mr. Hagstrom's presentation will provide an explanation of the plant species shown on the design. He will also be prepared to highlight how he has met the directions provided at last month's meeting. The Commission had requested the following items be given attention: 1. The Commission preferred the use of wildflowers /native grass plantings for the steep slopes, as much as possible. 2. Most of the pond edge should be prairie grasses (or appropriate plantings) that provide a barrier to the edge of the pond, except for an opening on the north that would have turf extended to the pond edge for access, as presented on your Concept Plan. 3. Bushes, shrubs, grasses or appropriate plantings should be used around the concrete skimmers and sewer outlets to provide a visual screen and a physical barrier to the structures. 4. The north side of the berm, with the shady slope, in the southwest corner of the pond should include trees and shrubs that connect to, or extend, the existing tree canopy on the west of the pond. 5. A loop trail should be included along the top of the berm, as presented. This should be designed as a gravel trail with the possibility of paving it with bituminous in the future. 6. Some stone benches, maybe four to six total, should be included as shown on your Concept Plan. 7. The Commission liked the idea of enhancing the Pine Area on the eastern boundary to create a buffer area to the Townhome property. This pine area should not have turf and should be low maintenance. Additional pine plantings should be shown, with the potential to plant some now, or with future plantings, as the budget allows. 8. A lawn/turf boulevard area along the street should be incorporated with the steep slopes on the berm to be native grasses /wildflowers /prairie in geometric. patterns. 9. The area described as the "pitcher's mound ", where there is a manhole, should be a small prairie garden with a bench, as shown on your concept plan. 10. The garden area with retaining wall along the existing trail is a good idea, however, the Commission didn't want to eat up the budget with stone work. 11. There should be two signs located that would tell people this is an Environmentally Sensitive Landscape area, as discussed. 12. An attempt should be made to incorporate plant species that would attract butterflies. This could be spread throughout, or concentrated in a garden area. The sign would include language about this. 13. Potted plants, or plugs, should be used at entrance points or other highly visible areas to "jump start" the look of the native landscaping, as the budget allows. The Parks and Recreation Commission should conduct the Neighborhood Meeting following the presentation by Mr. Hagstrom. Mr. Hagstrom will review the neighborhood input with the Commission and incorporate any new elements into the plan. The City has budgeted $20,000 for the restoration of Ivy Falls Park's pond. Also attached is the cost estimate for the Landscape Design. Mr. Hagstrom is prepared to make revisions for the April 18, 1995 City Council meeting. ACTION REQUIRED Conduct the neighborhood meeting and consider the proposed landscape design for the restoration of the pond in Ivy Falls Park. Make a recommendation to City Council on the proposed Landscape. Design for the pond restoration in Ivy Falls Park. City of ..�,Mendota Heights March 29, 1995 re: Neighborhood Meeting to Discuss Landscape Design for Ivy Falls Park Dear Resident: On behalf of the Parks and Recreation Commission, I cordially invite you to attend a neighborhood meeting that is being hosted by the Commission for the purpose of discussing the landscape design for Ivy Falls Park. The meeting is scheduled for : April 11, 1995 from 7 p.m. until 7:45 p.m. City Council Chambers - City Hall -1101 Victoria Curve The intent of the meeting is to invite the neighborhood to review the landscape design concept for the restoration of the pond area in Ivy Falls Park. This invitation is being sent to all property owners within 500 feet of Ivy Falls Park and press releases have been sent to the local papers. The Parks and Recreation Commission, by hosting this neighborhood meeting, hopes to generate input by the neighbors of Ivy Falls Park about the landscape improvements for the pond area. As you are probably aware, the pond in Ivy Falls Park was reconstructed as part of the Ivy Falls Creek Restoration Project. This pond was enlarged to handle a greater amount of storm water in order to prevent future erosion downstream in Ivy Falls Creek. The City Council, with the assistance of the Parks and Recreation Commission, desire to restore the landscape beauty to this area. The City has contracted with Mr. Jim Hagstrom, of Savanna Designs, to provide a landscape design that can be constructed this summer. Mr. Hagstrom, of Savanna Designs, has been meeting with the Parks and Recreation Commission and will be providing a presentation on the proposed design at this neighborhood meeting. Savanna Designs specializes in native grasses /wildflower designs that are incorporated into a traditional landscape setting and are designed to be ecologically sensitive with low maintenance requirements. The Parks and Recreation Commission is looking forward to meeting with all interested residents to discuss the landscape design for Ivy Falls Park's pond area and they are encouraging you to attend. Sincerely, Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant 1101 Victoria Curve • Mendota Heights, MN • 55118 452.1850 Mendota Heights hosts two public meetings The Parks and Recreation Commission of the City of Mendota Heights will be hosting two neighborhood meetings on 'Tuesday, April 11 in the Council .Chambers at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. Both are open to the public. Ivy Falls Park The first will be held from 7 to 7:45 p.m. and will allow residents of the city to discus the landscape design concept for the restoration of the pond in Ivy Falls Park. This meeting is being held to solicit input from neighborhood residents on how -they would like the landscape restored around Ivy Falls Park pond. The pond in Ivy Falls Park was :reconstructed as part of the Ivy Falls Creek Restoration Project. This pond was enlarged to handle • a greater amount of storm water in . order to prevent further erosion . downstream in Ivy Falls Creek. The city has contracted with Savanna Designs to provide a landscape design to restore the pond area. Jim Hagstrom, of Savanna Designs, will provide a presentation at the meeting to discuss the concept plans that have been developed with the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Parks and Recreation Commission has expressed a desire to incorporate native grasses and wildflowers into the landscape around the pond in order to provide a low maintenance, ecologically sensitive landscape that will beautify this area. Savanna Designs specializes in this type of design. The Parks and Recreation Commission is looking forward to meeting with all interested residents to discuss the landscape design for Ivy Falls Park's pond and is encouraging residents to use this opportunity to provide input on the restoration of this park. Bridgeview Shores trail The second meeting will take place from 8 to 8:30 p.m. and will allow residents to discuss a proposed trail link in • the Bridgeview Shores neighborhood. The proposal is to construct a bicycle /pedestrian trail on the north side of Mendota Heights Road from Westview Terrace to Dodd Road. The trail would be part of the Dodd Road/Mendota Heights Road Signal project and would be funded by Minnesota State Aid funding. The Dodd Road /Mendota Heights Road Signal Task Force recommended that this trail link be included in the project. The city council had requested that the Parks and Recreation Commission conduct this neighborhood meeting to solicit input from neighborhood residents on the proposed trail. 1 • FROM : SAVANNA DESIGNS INC February 37, 3995 City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota tHeiyghtts,, Minnesota 55118 COST ESTIMATE PHONE NO. : 770 6910 Environmentally A p p t o p t i e t 0 Landscape Design Landscape Design for Ivy Falls Park QTY Description 'Material I Scientific) Feb. 17 1995 12:39PM P1 Pagel of 3 Size Cast Labor Combined Extension I. Program 1.0 orietation to project; start information file discuss style, philosophy and approach- 2.0 review needs, ideas and desires - 1.0 discuss goals, objectives and priorities - 1.0 timing for design- budget timing for installation- budget 11. Base Map And Survey 1.5 layout building and property scale; 3.0 site visite; gather information 3.5 ecological survey; soils vegetation patterns drainage 2.0 sketch ideas and views )111. Analysis 3.5 integrate program and site information draw relationships; look for patterns. Identify conflicts and inconsistantcles IV. Conceptual Development 2.0 ideas that bring It all together; simplification 3,0 exploration of alternatives and options 2.0 Prepare Concept or Sketch Plan for property. March 14, 1995 V. Evaluate Concept, Alternatives And Make Adjustments review merits of ideas and feasibility 2.0 make revisions as needed 4.0 Presentation drawings 3.0 revisions, if needed; present to City, VI. Design Development 2.0 prepare conntuction drawings and details - 3.0 specify materials 3.0 planting design 1.0 Deliver blueprints and support documents. April 11, 1995 April 18, 1995 allowance 300.00 32.00 32.00 32.00 75.00 75.00 150.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 332.00 75.00 112.50 75.00 225.00 75.00 112.50 75.00 75.00 150.00 600.00 75.00 75.00 112.50 75.00 75.00 75.00 112.50 75.00 150.00 75.00 225.00 75.00 150.00 525.00 75.00 75.00 150.00 75.00 75.00 300.00 75.00 75.00 225.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 100.00 675.00 150.00 225.00 225.00 100.00 700.00 Thank you for the opportunity to work with your landscape. Sincerely, trout nvokxJg e payable upon receipt. A delinquency charge of 1% per month will be charged for any balance over 30 days. Subtotal Total 2,944.50 2,994.50 0.00 52,994.50 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO April 6, 1995 To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assis Subject: Bridgeview Shores Trail - Neighborhood Meeting 8:00 o'clock p.m. DISCUSSION Last fall the City included an eight foot (8') wide bituminous walking trail in the construction contract for the Traffic Signal Light project for the Mendota Heights Road and Dodd Road intersection. Costs for the trail are being covered by Municipal State Aid (MSA) funds. The signal was installed as the result of the work of a Task Force that consisted of a group of local residents, school representatives and city officials who worked with MnDOT to provide a traffic signal at this intersection. This Task Force included some Bridgeview Shores residents and its recommendation also included a trail that would extend from Westview Terrace to Dodd Road along the north side of Mendota Heights Road. (Please see attached map.) The City has held off on the trail construction until Spring to address concerns of the immediate neighbors. The Islams and Ruhlmanns have asked City Council to cancel the trail portion of the project because they feel it is unnecessary and would invade their privacy, if constructed. (Please see attached letters from the Islams and Ruhlmanns as well as staff correspondence and minutes.) The Task Force felt that this trail connection should be developed to the newly signalized intersection for safe pedestrian access from Bridgeview Shores to the new crosswalks at the intersection. City Council referred this matter to the Parks and Recreation Commission to provide all interested neighbors an opportunity to have input. Mailed notice has been sent to the entire Bridgeview Shores neighborhood and both the Sun Current and SouthWest Review have published notices. (Please see attached.) Now that the Spring construction season is near, the City must decided whether or not to delete this trail from the construction contract. ACTION REQUIRED The Parks and Recreation Commission should conduct a neighborhood meeting providing an opportunity to all interested residents to be heard. Consider a recommendation to the City Council regarding the proposed trail connection. March 29, 1995 Mr. Kevin Bachelder Administrative Assistant City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Dear Kevin: Thank you for sending us the note to inform us of the meeting of Park and Recreation Commission. We are looking forward to the meeting and hoping for a positive outcome. As per your suggestion we are enclosing a couple of pictures for submission as additional information to the Commission. One photo was taken from our bedroom and the other one from the lower level patio/dining family room area. We are sure you can see the pictures substantiate our concern of loss of privacy due the proposed trail. Once again thank you and see you on April 11, 1995. Sincerely, -`� aim Abu & Florence Islam 810 Westview Circle Mendota Heights, MN 55120 • e trej a4 2Sl0 West vies., Cc.,-- c.C.e. ; U - 6110 44 4. January 29. 1995 Mr. Charles E. Mertensotto Mayor City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Dear Mr. Mertensotto: This letter is a follow -up to the two letters written to Mr. Bachelder and Mr. Danielson regarding the trail on city property at the back of our house. While awaiting an official response on the matter from the City, we thought we would write to you about our reaction on the proposed trail. As evident from our letters (copies attached) to the City we are totally opposed to such a trail. We would not have bought this house if we had known that there would be a trail at the back of the house to rob all of our privacy. This also in effect will lower our property value. Last July we oalled the City to get permission to plant some shrubs around that area. We got the permission to plant, which we did. Even at that time nothing was mentioned about the trail. It seems like the proposal was passed in secrecy so there would be no objection. We find it very objectionable that the City would decide on the trail without having discussed this with the property owners who are adversely affected. Moreover. there is already a trail on the other side of the road and we do not think public money should be wasted building another one just for one family. We hope that you will support our position and rule out the decision to build that trail. Sincerely. Abu and Florence Islam 810 Westview Circle Mendota Heights MN 55120 Tel.: 681 -9070 October 17, 1994 Mr. Kevin Batchelder -City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights MN 55118 Dear Mr. Batchelder: On Friday, October 14, 1994, we talked to an engineer from the city regarding the traffic light at the intersection of Dodd and Mendota Heights Road. During the discussion, to our surprise, we found out that the city is going to build a bike trail on the piece of land behind our back yard. As we said this was a big surprise as we were never notified about this. Our. next door neighbor, Barb Ruhlmann, has been here for over two years and she was not aware of this trail either. Even though the bike trail will be on city property it is going to have a tremendous impact on the privacy of the houses in this area. People biking and walking in the trail will have a clear view of most of the rooms and of course the deck areas. Besides we believe this to be an unnecessary expense for the City of Mendota Heights. There is a trail on the other side and it is not inconvenient for us to cross to is when we need to. There is no need for another trail. As stated earlier this is city property and it is at their disposal as to what they want to do with it. But we believe our tax money can be better spent than to build a second trail. We certainly hope that the City Council will reconsider their decision. --,4f you have any questions please contact us at 683 -2951. Sincerely, Abu & Florence Islam 810 Westview Circle Mendota Heights MN 55120 October 28. 1994 Mr. James Danielson Public Works Director City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Mr. James Danielson: We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for agreeing to come and see us on November 9, 1884 regarding the trail on Mendota Heights Road.. We would also like to thank Mr. Kevin Batchelder for replying to our letter. As evident from our discussions with you letter earlier we are totally opposed to this trail. Mr. Batchelder in his letter noted that one of the residents of Bridgeview Shores is a member of the task force which formulated the proposal for the trail. Of course this resident has no problem lobbying for the trail because it does not affect his property. We would not have a problem if this trail was in front of our house where we do not spend any time. But our house is designed and built in such a way where all the activities are at the back of the house facing Mendota Heights Road. And there are large windows on that side of the home. Hence this proposed trail system will rob us of our privacy and useful usage of our property. It still amazes us to think that we who are going to be most affected by this trail were not consulted and the decision was made by the task force and residents in total disregard to our concerns. It is our hope that when you come to visit us you will see how a trail above the level of our houses in this area will not only take our privacy away but in the process will also devalue our property. We are not ready to accept either of the two. We moved to Mendota. Heights from Eagan with a commitment of being long term residents. We hope that you will support our position and are looking forward to meeting with you on November 9 at 11.30 p.m. Sincerely, Mr. and Mrs. Garry Ruhlmann 816 Westview Circle Mendota Heights, MN 55120 February 12, 1995 Mayor Charles Mertensotto Mendota Heights City Hall 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Dear Mayor Mertensotto: We would like to express our opinion on the path being proposed between Dodd Road and Westview Terrace on the North side of Mendota Heights Road. The path would be adjacent to the length of our backyard. We learned about the path the day the city came out to stake it out in the Fall of 1994. We feel the path was just dumped on us. A member of the city council told us that the path is for our neighborhood. But as we all know the opinion of a few is not necessarily the opinion of the majority. We were never notified or asked. We do not want it. Secondly, we do not see a need for it. We were told that the path was for young people to walk to and from St. Thomas and Visitation. We have three boys who may attend St. Thomas Academy, but since they would use it only a couple of years and there is already a sidewalk on Mendota Heights Road we cannot justify a new path being built. Thirdly, the location for a path is intersection of Mendota Heights Road and is blind to cars due to a dip in Mendota of the intersection. Now a path will be same intersection which is also blind to or joggers coming east on the path. terrible. The Westview Terrace Heights Road east coming into the a view of walkers If we were alloweda request, we would recommend using the money for a row of evergreen trees along the east side of Dodd Road, north of Mendota Heights Road to offset the stopped traffic due to the stop light. - say for about 500 feet. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Sincerely, Garry agd Barb Ruhlmann October 25, 1994 Mr. Garry and Ms. Barbara Ruhlmann 816 Westview Circle Mendota Heights, MN 55120 Dear Mr. and Ms. Ruhlmann: Thank you for your letter of October 21, 1994 expressing your concern about a proposed trail along the north side of Mendota Heights Road that would abut your property. I understand your concerns and this letter will attempt to address some of the issues raised in your letter. The trail that you have expressed concerns about is proposed to be installed in the public right of way along the north side of Mendota Heights Road from Dodd Road to the first entrance to Bridgeview Shores neighborhood, which is Westview Tenace. It is proposed to be an eight foot (8') bituminous trail that would be installed as part of the Traffic Signal Project slated for Mendota Heights Road and Dodd Road intersection. (Please see attached map.) The subject trail originated as a proposal to be included in the Mendota Heights Road/Dodd Road traffic light project. The Dodd Road/Highway 149 and Mendota Heights Road Traffic Signal Task Force is a group of local residents, school representatives and city officials who have worked with the State Department of Transportation ( MnDOT) to provide a traffic signal for this intersection. The Task Force included the addition of this trail segment in the traffic signal project in order to provide safe access to the City Trail system along Mendota Heights Road to Bridgeview Shores residents. The existing trail along Mendota Heights Road must switch from the south side of the road to the north side of the road as it crosses Dodd Road, and the Task Force felt this was an unsafe maneuver. On March 8, 1994, the City's Parks and Recreation Commission considered this proposal in terms of funding for the project. They felt that MnDOT should pay for the trail and that City funds should not be used. MnDOT has since agreed to fund this portion of the trail. Work begins on the traffic light installation within a week, however, the trail segment is not scheduled for construction until Spring. The Parks and Recreation Commission did not hold a public hearing on this trail segment, as the Traffic Signal Task Force's proposal for this trail had support from residents of Bridgeview Shores who were lobbying for this trail. A representative of the Task Force is a resident of your neighborhood. Mr. and Ms. Ruhhnann October 25, 1994 Page Two Mr. James Danielson, Public Works Director, has been the City's representative on the Mendota Heights Road/Dodd Road Traffic Signal Tack Force and I have forwarded copies of your letter to him. He would be able to discuss the proposed trail in more detail with you and hopefully address your concerns about this project. He may be reached at 452 -1850. Sincerely, Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant cc: James Danielson, Public Works Director Ayes: 3 Nays: 0 MSP PLAN MENDOTA HEIGHTS ROAD TRAIL Page No. 4225 November 15, 1994 Councilmember Koch moved to adopt the Park and Recreation Commission recommendation to authorize additional monies for Ivy Hills Park landscaping and for pond expansion for a maximum cost of $20,000 plus $5,000 for landscape architectural services. Councilmember Smith seconded the motion. Council acknowledged a memo from Administrator Lawell and draft response to the MSP Long Term Comprehensive Plan - Alternative Environment Document. Mayor Mertensotto reviewed the plan for the audience. Councilmember Smith suggested additional points in the draft, stating that MAC often talks about not putting noise where it has not occurred. before and that is exactly what they propose with the third north parallel runway. She stated that the runway would dramatically increase traffic to the city and would make it even worse in areas that are already receiving air noise. Administrator Lawell stated that the north south runway certainly opens new areas to noise as well as flying new portions of Eagan, Apple Valley and Burnsville. He further stated that he believes any of the expansion options would impact new areas of the city. Mayor Mertensotto suggested that the city start talking about excessive noise as another category and point out that the south two thirds of the city receives substantial nose as is substantiated by ANOMS data. He stated that adding a third parallel runway would only increase the burden and any plan to do such expansion would expand the area of objection from Mendota Heights residents. It was the consensus to add a new section on excessive noise exposure to the response and to direct staff to send the response to the commission members in addition to the commission chair. Councilmember Smith expressed concern over the noise contours, stating that the LDN 65 used in 1992 is different from what is in the document. She stated that she would also like to learn more about assumptions on air traffic. Councilmember Smith stated that she has spoken to residents in the area of the Dodd/Mendota Heights Road intersection and there are many who do not want or believe there is a need for a trail on the north side of the intersection. ADJOURN Ayes: 3 Nays: 0 ATTEST: Page No. 4226 November 15, 1994 Public Works Director Danielson responded that when people reach the signal lights they will need to cross the intersection and at the signal task force meeting one of the members asked that the trail be extended at least one block east of the intersection. He stated that it seems that those who immediately abut the trail on the north side of Mendota Heights Road object to the trail and since the extension of the trail was to serve that area, there does not seem to be any benefit to keeping it in the project. Councilmember Smith stated that there is a cross walk from north to south and on the north side of the intersection, from east to west. She stated that the concern had been that the residents of Bridgeview Shores would not have access to the intersection without crossing Dodd at a non cross walk intersection. Public Works Director Danielson responded that the advantage of doing the trail section from Westview Terrace on the North side of Mendota Heights to Dodd as part of this project is that it would be funded by MSA. He stated that if Council wishes to delete the trail section, the contractor would have to be notified. Mayor Mertensotto suggested leaving the trail for the time being but notifying the property owners that it would be a means of providing a better crossing for all of Bridgeview Shores and at the same time, asking the contractor to hold up on constructing the trail until at least April or May to allow time for Council to meet with the property owners in the spring. There being no further business to come before the Council, Councilmember Koch moved that the meeting be adjourned. Councilmember Smith seconded the motion. TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 10:31 o'clock P.M. Charles E. Mertensotto Mayor Kathleen M. Swanson City Clerk City of j Mendota Heights March 29, 1995 re: Neighborhood Meeting to Discuss Proposed Trail Link Dear Resident: On behalf of the Parks and Recreation Commission, I cordially invite you to attend a neighborhood meeting that is being hosted by the Commission for the purpose of discussing a trail proposal in Bridgeview Shores. The meeting is scheduled for : April 11, 1995 from 8 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. City Council Chambers - City Hall -1101 Victoria Curve The intent of the meeting is to invite the neighborhood to review and comment on a trail proposed to link Westview Terrace to Dodd Road at Mendota Heights Road. The trail is proposed to run along the north side of Mendota Heights Road. (Please see attached map.) The City Council desires that the Parks and Recreation Commission host a neighborhood meeting to review the trail and its impact in detail so that a recommendation can be made on the proposed trail. This invitation is being sent to all property owners in Bridgeview Shores and press releases have been sent to the local papers. The Parks and Recreation - Commission, by hosting this neighborhood meeting, hopes to generate input by the neighbors about the proposed trail. The proposal is to construct a bicycle /pedestrian trail link on the north side of Mendota Heights Road from Westview Terrace to Dodd Road. The trail would be part of the Dodd Road/Mendota Heights Road Signal Project and would be paid for by Minnesota State Aid funding. The Dodd Road/Mendota Heights Road Signal Task Force recommended that this trail link be included in the signal light project, however not all neighbors were aware of this recommendation. The Parks and Recreation Commission is looking forward to meeting with all interested residents /neighbors to discuss the proposed trail and they are encouraging you to attend. Sincerely, CCU.:,.. c .6 .� Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant 1101 Victoria Curve - 1Viendota Heights, MN - 55118 452-1850 ,- i d O y "l7 ~a 7 ' • f CD W = "'' .p. .....4 ~ c cD O A _ A • 4 = O N .• A = Q r - 0.. cm 02i .0 ^ W y O S CA 0-i y Q "" O ^ 0 .1 "Ly .1 n t C3 CD Q' F). cG a O a O 0 rD r . .. y .v' O g^ d M M a Z. 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G 0, •.. w amy • O G O CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO April 6, 1995 To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assi Subject: Joint Workshop with the City Council DISCUSSION At the March 21, 1995 City Council meeting, the City Council expressed a desire to conduct a Joint Workshop with the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Commission has been working on the Target Issues over the last year, including Capital Improvements Plan, park related funding sources and recreation programming, and the Council felt it was appropriate to meet in a Joint Workshop with the Commission. The City Council suggested that this meeting occur in three months time (June or July). The purpose of this memo is to inform the Commission of this pending meeting and to provide you with an opportunity to discuss items that you feel should be discussed with City Council. At a future meeting of the Council, a date will be determined for the Joint Workshop. ACTION REQUIRED Discuss the Joint Workshop opportunity and provide any direction to staff. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO October 7, 1994 To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Subject: Discussion of Park Vision and Philosophy DISCUSSION As part of the 1993 -1994 Target Issues, City Council requested that the Parks and Recreation Commission review and consider the various policies that guide the parks and recreation systems. The Council desired that the Parks and Recreation Commission consider these policies in order to establish a vision, a mission or a philosophy for the both parks and recreation. (Please see attached copy from the High Priority list of Target Issues for 1993- 1994.) Specifically, City Council requested the Commission: 1. Evaluate future capital improvement needs within the park system; and 2. Clarify the purpose and use of various park and recreation funding sources; and 3. Review the current park dedication formula; and 4. Review the need for additional recreational programming. As the Commission is aware, the capital improvement plan was developed and accepted by City Council earlier this year. Part of that discussion involved the appropriate uses of the various funds such as general fund, special park fund, referendum fund, and others. (Please see attached copy.) The Commission should begin discussion of these items in order to provide staff with direction on how to proceed. To facilitate this discussion, copies of the park dedication formula the role of the Parks and Recreation Commission and old goal statements are attached. Staff will be prepared to go into more detail on Tuesday evening. ACTION REQUIRED Begin discussion of the City Council Target Issues and provide direction to staff. / Ju] T SSUES • v8 PRIORITY (Continued) ,STATUS AS OF SEPTEMBER 21; 1993 4. Ivy Falls Creek Restoration Project • Extend assessment roll certification and bid award dates to 1994 • Resolve all outstanding easement acquisition issues Resolve pending assessment challenge from M/M Miller ▪ Bid project for Summer /Fall 1994 construction Public Hearing to be held October 5, 1993 to defer assessment roll certification and bid award to 1994. Homeowner's Association easement currently being signed. Miller and Smookler- easement being negotiated. -Tentative construction start date is Summer 1994. 5. Mayfield Heights Stormwater Project Resolve two outstanding easement acquisition issues Consider award of project in September 1993 for construction during October 1993 Park Vision/ Philosophy • Evaluate future capital improvement needs within the park system Clarify purpose and use of various park and recreation funding sources Review current park dedication formula • Review need for additional recreational programs 7. Tax Increment Financing Policy Review the goals and intent of the City's current tax increment district - Evaluate the need for additional TIF usage controls and restrictions Prepare for Council con- sideration a revised TIF usage policy Assuming successful easement negotiation, project bids will be before Council for award on September 21, 1993. Project construction would then begin October 1, 1993. Park and Recreation Commission currently evaluating each park for necessary future capital improve- ments. Commission will be asked to clarify use of remaining referendum funds, special park fund, general fund, and user fees relative to future park improvements. Recreation program offerings to be reviewed in 1994. Draft TIF Usage Policy was presented to Council in July 1992 and March 1993. Suggest Council workshop to further discuss goals and intent of policy. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEMO April 6, 1995 To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Kevin Batchelder, Administrative Assis Subject: Discussion of Park Dedication for Proposed Subdivision Mr. Keith Heaver - Ivy Falls South DISCUSSION Mr. Keith Heaver, a local developer, is proposing to subdivide the Logan and Hughes properties and develop nineteen (19) single family homes. This proposed subdivision is immediately east of Cherry Hills Addition and south of Knollwood Lane. (Please see attached maps.) Mr. Heaver is proposing to extend Knollwood Lane as a cul -de -sac and there would be a stub street to Cherry Hills Road. The formal public hearing will be held by the Planning Commission for this proposed Subdivision on April 25, 1995. The Parks and Recreation Commission also reviews large subdivisions for the proposed park dedications. In this case, Mr. Heaver is not proposing a dedication of park land, therefore, a cash dedication would consist of nineteen newly created lots at $750 each. The total cash dedication would be $14,250. (Please see attached Section 6, of Subdivision Ordinance 301 and Resolution No. 91 -94, Establishing a Park Contribution Formula.) The City's Comprehensive Plan shows Wentworth Park to belhe neighborhood park that serves this area. There are no existing City trails that would connect to this property. The new neighborhood could access Wentworth Park by means of proposed Ivy Lane and Cherry Hills Road. ACTION REOUIRED Review the proposed Ivy Falls South Subdivision and the proposed cash dedication of $14,250. Forward any comments to the Planning Commission and make a recommendation to City Council regarding the proposed cash dedication. Jr. %� SOUERSE 1.- t Oil • 0Q ...y ) •.1 11.:w.%i . t r 1, t• • v(4:••'• 0 '1 • •■ R ' i.w.1 •H•l - • L • •1j11.'•• .. • w1. Cu • 1 .; -Arai' reit • • •y • ictfL • • • i Y a L . In AA y y y L A y y Y a A L a L L 4 s 4. 4 4 1 t AAA. L L L L a 41a L t'L L L Y a L L A L L L L L L L . L Y i. L a ILA A. y L A L L L t Y L L l a i A. L 1 A 1 L A. A A. wL L L Yyi. y .4 Y Liyy A. Ski L y L J. i t i� y L Y Y i A A aa'ALiiiit y .: A a Y L y y A. i A. a 1A4.1 i_L Y 1 i.L`^! Y t Y..L 4.fi L Jl�� TL i y y y iti A y y y Y 1 t L v..�. K` .L 1 i 1,t�t1YA. A. y11 1L Lty 111 L L A. AFL^ 1 Y y 1 Y t A EA. L L Y L 1 y Y yt yY A. Y Y t t i i t y y y L L i L L .. . t�+t y y Y L L L i�A A AL a y Y Y t i t i i( y L AIL L AZ L 1 Y L Y y a Y tit t a r' • A. L L a Y y Y A. t t i L iL L 1 1 J. 1 L L y A. a s y y y y y t L tA..iy 1 i L IL i t A. Y t A. La1 Li tai L 1 1 i L L y 4. y y #t L y L a L Y A i t Jal, a 44 L 4.i I A L Y L: L y Y Y A A L y t L LA A : a i t Y y A L L L L A. F'; AA LOT 39 Lai' 34 33. • M E N i .3T 'Ak.- -... • 2 a Ii ; fil s th ijI 1 1 1 1 SECTION 6. PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND PUBLIC USE 6.1 Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 1971, Section 462.358, Subdivision 2, as amended in Chapter 176 Minnesota Laws 1973, the City Council of the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights shall require all develoeprs requesting platting or replatting of land in the City of Mendota Heights to contribute ten-(10) percent of final plat gross area to be dedicated to the public for their use as either parks, playgrounds, public open space, trail systems, water ponding or to contribute an equivalent amount of cash, based upon the conditions outlined below. The form of. contribution (cash or land, or any combination of) shall be decided by the City Council based upon need and conformance with approved City plans. 6.2 All monies collected from cash contributions shall be placed in a special fund from which only those public uses, as listed in 6.1 above may be constructed or improved, or land for those same uses may be acquired. 6.3 Upon petition by the developer, the Council may approve a delay in the actual dedication of the cash required in lieu of land until such time as development occurs on the property being platted provided that a proper legal agreement is executed guaranteeing such dedication. Delayed dedication payment shall include annual interest accrued on the unpaid balance at an interest rate to be established from time to time by resolution of the City Council. 6.4 Where a proposed park, playground or other recreational areas, proposed school site or other public ground that has been indicated in the official 'map and/or master plan is located in whole or in part within a proposed subdivision such proposed public site shall be designated as such and should be dedicated to the City, School District or other proper govern- mental unit. If the subdivider chooses not to dedicate an area in excess of the land required under this section hereof for such proposed public site, the Council shall not be required to act to approve or disapprove the plat of the subdivision for a period of ninety (90) days after the subdivider meets all the provisions of the subdivision Title in order to permit the Council, School Board or other appropriate governmental unit to consider the proposed plat and to take the necessary steps to acquire, through purchase or condemnation all or part of the public site proposed under the official map or master plan. 6.5 In such cases where the developer is required to dedicate land area, the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights, shall have the right to determine the geographic location and configuration of said dedication. (301) 21 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS Dakota County, Minnesota RESOLUTION NO. 91- 94 RESOLUTIONAMENDING RESOLUTION 80-16, ESTABLISHING A PARK CONTRIBUTION FORMULA WHEREAS, pursuant to Minn. Statute, Section 462.358, Subd. 2, and Mendota Heights Subdivision Ordinance, Section 6, the City Council is authorized to require a park contribution for the platting or replatting of land; and WHEREAS, said park contribution may be either in the form of a cash contribution or a percentage of the gross area of the plat, whichever is deemed most appropriate by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights; and WHEREAS, said open •space contributions or cash contributions must be used for the purpose of maintaining and protecting open space or developing existing public open space; and WHEREAS, it is deemed advisable that the cash contribution be based on a standard contribution formula. NOW THEREFORE IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights, that Resolution No. 80-16 be amended in its entirety; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following park contribution formula shall apply to all requests for platting, replatting or division of existing lots for which a cash contribution is deemed appropriate by the City Council: a. Property owner or developer shall contribute a minimum of $750 for each residential lot created as a result of plat, replat or lot division approval; and b. Cash contributions in the case replats or lot divisions shall fair market value of the gross plat, replat or lot division; of counnercial/industrial plats, be at least ten (10) percent of area created as a result of the and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the contribution shall be payable upon approval of the plat, replat or lot division or in a manner as outlined in the Subdivision Ordinance. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this 17th day of December, 1991. ATTEST: ;1‘q4---.3 athleen M. Swanson, City Clerk CITY COUNCIL CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS By Charles E. Mertensotto, Mayor DAKOTA COUNTY 8500 127TH STREET EAST - HASTINGS, MINNESOTA 55033 PARKS DEPARTMENT (612) 437-6608 March 31, 1995 Dear Park Committee Chair: On behalf of the Dakota County Park and Recreation Advisory Committee (PARAC), I am is pleased to invite you and members of your city's park committee to a 1995 joint information sharing meeting with area recreation providers to be held on Tuesday, April 11, 1995. PARAC members found the meeting held last year to be very useful and have expressed interest in hosting similar meetings on an annual basis. The purpose of this year's meeting is to provide an opportunity for committee members, city and county staff, to hear from other agencies, and from each other, on current plans, projects or special initiatives underway in the County. Several representatives from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), will present information on 1995 planning efforts and projects in Fort Snelling State Park, including a floodplain trail and visitor center. Dan Collins, DNR Trails and Waterways, will provide information on state trails and on funding opportunities for local trails which link to state or regional facilities. The new manager of the Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge and recreation area will present information on the Refuge. County staff will also discuss current park and trail projects. Time will be provided for a short, informal presentation from each city on current plans and projects. If you are unable to make this presentation, I would appreciate your making arrangements for another committee member or staff person to do so. Thanks for your assistance with this assignment. The meeting will be held at Camp Sacajawea in Lebanon Hills Regional Park and will begin at 4:30 PM. Enclosed is brochure showing the location of the camp and the new entrance on McAndrews Road. There will be a supper break at 6:00 PM. Please RSVP to Deb Peters at the Dakota County Park Department Office at 437 -6608 by Friday, April 7, 1995 so that box lunches can be provided for everyone in attendance. If time permits, a short tour of the new outdoor classroom at Camp Sacajawea and the Jensen Lake picnic area improvement may be included. I look forward to meeting with you and your park committee members and hope you will find continued informal joint discussions of mutual interest and benefit. Sincerely, 13i11 Holton, Chair Dakota County Park and Recreation Advisory Committee c: Park Committee Members c: City Parks Directors Printed on Recycled Paper AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER i EAGAN cu �.w3•u .ww.ovw x.uau * CO 4/.1103I LEBANON HILLS REGIONAL PARK DAKOTA COUNTY PARKS (612) 437 -7196 This brochure is printed on recycled paper. CCOSS NW `S6uliseH 1Se3 Man 14112 L - OO98 1 3ALLI: VcB0 SNdVd AlNr OO diONwO CAMP SACAJAWEA Youth Group Camping Area Camp Sacajawea Youth Group Camp Area, operated by Dakota County Parks Department, is dedicated to the environmental education and outdoor skill development of youth. Over 100 wooded acres are available for hiking, orienteering, snowshoeing and nature study. The camp is open to organized youth groups sponsored through Scouting, Churches, 4 -H and other non- profit agencies. Schools and Cities also can enhance their educational and recreational programs by using this area. Camp Sacajawea lodge and grounds are available to reserve for daily, overnight or weekly use throughout the year. The fully modernized lodge has a large assembly /sleeping hall, central showers, bathrooms, fireplace and kitchen complete with a stove, oven and refrigerator. Campers must provide cooking equipment, utensils and sleeping gear. The lodge can accommodate up to 50 youth overnight. Each of the ten group tent sites has a fire ring, picnic table, access to running water, firewood and latrines. Large group campouts may use the entire area or small groups can use one or two campsites. Located in Apple Valley. Camp Sacajawea is just minutes south of the Twin Cities on major roadways and easily accessible from all communities in the metropolitan area. Whether your group is interested in learning more about the environment, sharpening survival skills or just enjoying an overnight camp out, Sacajawea is an excellent natural setting for your outdoor adventure. i 0, III 111 II 0 III i II! 0 U z FIRE PL AC E OPEN HALL 26.X 4TH r V cc BENCH V z W Firewood for the fireplac' nd fire rings is provided. MECH. RM. Cooking equipment and supplies are not provided. .0 0 0 i COUNSELORS R M. S ALL DRESSING RM. EI, rAgt„mo&AA., 0 KITCHEN 8d MENS o %O •MENS RM. / RM. 0 ,//I//A.4 �e ./ i e DAVID L. AYERS* HAROLD H. RIEHM DAVID R. NEWCOMB, JR. AYERS & RIEHM LAWYERS SUITE 2330 AMERICAN BANK BLDG. 101 EAST FIFTH STREET SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA 55101 FAX: (612) 222-1844 TELEPHONE: (612) 222-8400 March 28, 1995 Mr. Kevin Batchelder Administrative Assistant Mendota Heights City Hall 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, Minnesota 55118 Re: Valley View Heights Park Dear Kevin: This letter follows our conversation of March 27, 1995, wherein I requested that the Valley View Heights Park issues be withdrawn from the April 4th City Council Agenda and rescheduled for the April 18th City Council meeting. Please advise me if this is agreeable and the approximate time that this matter will be on the agenda. Thank you for your continued cooperation. I look forward to hearing from you. DLA/tmg (!Yours truly, Th * Also Admitted in Wisconsin MINNESOTA EXTENSION SERVICE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA CENTER FOR 4 -H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT COLLEGE OF EDUCATION 340 Coffey Hail 1420 Eckles Avenue St. Paul MN 55108 -6080 (612) 625 -9700 1- 800- HHH -H238 FAX: (612) 625 -1731 DATE: March, 1995 TO: Bicycle Safety Coordinator FROM: Cynthia McArthur, Youth Development Educator Pedal Power Camp Director ` .tf -(((rif'`IrGi'Li RE: PEDAL POWER CAMP, A BIKE CAMP FOR YOUTH, 11 -17 yrs. It is that time of year to begin to think about the 1995 Pedal Power Camp, a six day residential camp for youth, 11 -17 years old, who are willing to return to their communities and be resources in bicycle safety. As bicycling continues to be the most popular recreational activity for most Minnesotans and a regular means of transportation for most young people, they can be an important resource to you and the community. We will be at the Campfire's Camp Ojiketa in Chisago City this year from June 11 -17. The S180 registration fee covers the cost of the camp, both housing and meals. The camp's format includes small group interactions, experienced counselors, daily bicycle rides, mock events and challenging workshops. The teens not only return as better bicyclist and traffic users, but are also able to provide leadership in their community as bicycle instructors or facilitators for various bicycling functions and events. The camp is one program of the Minnesota Community Bicycle Safety Project. The Project is sponsored by the Minnesota•Department of Public Safety and the Center for 4 -H Youth Development, University of Minnesota, College of Education and the Minnesota Extension Service. Training teens to be a bicycle safety resource in their communities compliment the other ways the Project offers resources and consulting services to law enforcement and educational organizations and to you and other community organizations and businesses. You are in an unique position to help identify teens who are interested in bicycling and to encourage them to develop and enhance their skills and knowledge about bicycling, themselves, their communities and their leadership by attending the camp. You could also sponsor one or more teens to the camp and work with them on their return. If you could copy and share the enclosed poster /flyer with young people who may be interested in the camp or post it in visible locations for youth and their parents, it would be greatly appreciated. It is an exciting and challenging opportunity for teens to meet other teens, learn alot about bicycling and start the summer on a roll. If you need more information or have any questions, please call me at (612) 625 -9719. UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, AND MINNESOTA COUNTIES COOPERATING AAAAAAA City of Mendota Heights March 15, 1995 Mr. Adam D. Piskura State Director of Fire Training 100 State Capitol Square Building 550 Cedar Street St. Paul, Minnesota 55101 Dear Mr. Piskura: On behalf of the Parks and Recreation Commission of the City of Mendota Heights, I am writing in support of the City Council's nomination of the Mendota Heights Fire Department for the 1995 Minnesota Fire Department Community Service Award. The Parks and Recreation Commission is happy to support the City Council's nomination because of our direct involvement with the Fire Department and its members in two.distinct areas related to parks and recreation services in Mendota Heights. First, during 1994, the members of the Fire Department operated the concession stand /booth at Mendakota Park, our premier community park. The Fire Department's operation of the concession stand has provided a needed service to our recreation participants and to the public while allowing the City the ease of administration. In addition, the visibility of the Fire Department members and spouses at Mendakota Park has had an extremely positive impact on the community at our busiest, most active park. Secondly, the Fire Department members and spouses have provided the great majority of volunteers for our annual community celebration, Celebrate Mendota Heights Parks! The success of this annual event is directly tied to volunteer help -'and donations from within the community. It is safe to say that without their volunteer efforts that this event would not have been nearly as successful. They are there at every step of the event from setting up to tearing down and are always ready to pitch in and help. They also sponsor numerous events during the day including a softball tournament, a dunk tank, Fire Truck rides for the children and concessions. The Mendota Heights Volunteer Fire Department has made significant contributions to the parks and recreation programs in Mendota eights and their voluntary efforts have made a difference. ISSION S' erely, I: r!"• BEIG: S PARRS AND �,�,�� • CO' CO's ISSION eJi�� ek Richar. Spicer, .Chair 1101 Victoria Cur4e •Mendota Heights, MN • 55118 452.1850 C