HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-05-1996 Park Commission Minutes OR(JNO PARK COMMISSION MEETING
MINUTES FOR AUGUST 5, 1996
� ATTENDANCE
The Park Commission mei on the above mentioned date with the following mem�ers
present: Chair Richard Flint, �.ili McMillan, Andrew McDermott, Susan Wilson, and
David Beal. Park Intern Michael Schultz was also present. Representing Staff were
Pu61ic Works Director John Gerhardson and Recorder Sherry Frost. Chair Flint called the
meeting to order at 7;21 p.m.
(#1)REPRESENTATIVES OF AL�ITOINE PARK NEIGHBORHf?OD
No representatives of ihe Antoi�e Park neighborhood came to the meeting.
(#2) REYIEW OF PLANS F4R B1KE TRAIL- J�HN GERHARDSON
Gerhardson reviewed the original b�ke trail plans with the Commission. Flint inquired
about the status of easements for the trail segment planned for canstruction this year.
Gerhardson said verbal agreement has been reached for a 7'permanent easernent with the
VVills as well as the Brandenburgs. No curb or gutter will be used in this area up to Sitver
View Drive, which will aid 'm minimizing the costs. Stirubs will be lost on the
Brandenburg property, but the amount paid for the easement may be used for replace
trees. The layout of the trail in this section consists of a gravel shoulder and drainage
ditch separating the trail ftom the paved road. The bike path will be 8' wide. Cost to
Kelley Parkway is estimated at $150,OQ0 to �160,004 exclusive of easements.
No agreement has been reached with the Hiles. At this tirne, the plan calls for the trail
coming out to the road at Silver View and continuing with eurb and gutter to the railroad
bridge and beyond to Highway 12. North of Highway 12, the trait will again veer ta the
east away from the roadway. It is easier to keep the trail near the roadway as it becomes
an industrial area and costs for easements as well as the time element become issues.
Gerhardson reported that bids for the trail construction apen on August 23 with
construction beginning in mid-September. The trail is expecied to be comgleted this fall
to�e11ey Parkwa�y with plant restoration taking place in the spring.
It was noted that fast bikers will have the paved area for their travel with a separation of a
shoulder from th�off-road traii.
McMillan inquired about loss of trees on the Hiles property. Gerhardson said the majority
of the trees on the City� right-of-way woutd be lost with the trees from Silver V'iew north
of the Hites home remaining. The trail will run near other trees which will require
trimming and maintenance. Once the trail is compieted, the City will maintain the trail.
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i�3Il`I�IT�S OF TH�REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISS�ON
MEETING HEL� ON AUGUST 5, 1996
(#2 -Review of Bike Trail Plans - Continued}
Flint reminded Gerhardson to include the trail section north of Co Rd 6, wl�ich Hennepin
Parks has agreed to pay for, in the bid process.
(#3) DISCUSSIQN WITH �UMMER INTERN 4F PRUGRESS TO DAT� -
MICHAEL SCHULT2
In reviewing the memo and pr�liminary map by Ivi�chael 5chultz, �lint suggested �inear and
bike/hike trails be added where they have been approved. McDermott said these additions
would be inctuded as well as traiis located in subdivisions and any other areas the Cauncil
feels s#�ouid be induded. It was noted that it would be heipful to include trails with
easement�when subdivisions a�ong designated bike trail are approved. Schultz said he has
received some of this inforniation from Mabusth and Gerhardson. Mcl7ermatt sa.id the list
could atso include undeveioped and open space areas.
Under special use areas, it was agreed to move Casco Point Skating Rink to neighborhaod
parks. The back side area of Casco was said to be thickly wooded and difficult to access.
Under other parks and open spaces, the Luce Line would be added along with Lakeview
Golf, Orono School batlfields, Woodhilt Golf Caurse. Wolsfeld trails was changed to
Wolsfeld Woods.
McDermott asked Wilson to provide a list of private parc�ls that are being consider�d by
the owners for canservation.
Although Ferndale Marsh is rrtainly located in Vtlayzata, a small partion of it is located in
Orona and, thus, will be included.
It will be noted under lake access that Summit Park 5wimming Beach is an Lon�lake.
The park classification drafts provided by �chultz were reviewed. Under Bederwood,
skating rink was added to the existing facilities. It was noted that the Little League
Baseball, not Babe Ruth, was the special use�roup. The problematic conditions was
changed to "the construction of the Little Lea�ue base6all field was highly contested by
area neighbors," as Flint recarrimended listing what has happened rather than what mig�t
accur in the future. U�der notes and comments, it will be noted that the baseba}1
or�anization is limited to 3 nights per week. The neighborhvod"s desire for the park to
remain as a neighborhood park rather than f�r team sports will alsa be listed. The use of
Bederwood for Litt�e League w�s to have been temporary until the Lee Carlsan fields
were completed. McMi�lan commented on the slope problem noting a possible need for
grading on the nortli sitle. McMillan asked that it also note the 4" well is ta provicle for
drinking water and a possible ice rink.
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR 4R()NO PAR�COMMISSION
1�vIEETING HELD QN AUGUST S, 1996
(#3 -Discussion with Sumrner intern - Continued)
Flint commented that the maps of park loca#iflns were smatl but infor�n the reader of the
general area. Schultz saic� a larger fold-dut type map will show the locatiori af all of the
parks in relation to each other. The sca.le of 1"to i�0'will be kept to m�intain an eyual
understanding of t�e various parks. Gerhardson suggested the use of a quarter section
map instead of a futl section. McDermott said, when plans for future parks are made,
other maps will be added.
Casco Pomt Park will i�e elassifieri as a nature/�onservation area. The cleed restrictions
shal� state t�at the park shall be maintained as apen spaee natural woodland, instead of
listing restrictxons from a negative standpo�nt. Any restrictions from deeds or otherwise
sha11 be included for each park. It was noted that Casco Point Pa.rk was deeded frotn the
neighbors to the City and previously housed an irrigativn system for the entire circle. FIiM
said that the prablems previousiy reported relating to snowmabile usage and vehicles
being par�ced witlun the park shauld be noted. �erhardson reported that a survey shows
that mast of the parking is 6eing done within the pubiic right-of-way. The baundaries are
posted. Parking is prohibited between 2:00 a.m. anc4 5:00 a.m.
Flint �sked that the topographic and site plan maps be shoum side by side on the f nal
report sa compatisQns ma�be made. This will require e�tending the repQrt on each park
to cover thre+e pages.
Under�iackberry I'ark, McMillan noted tf3at the special use group is t-ba1Z, rather than
Little L,eague. It was noted that the house located in the midst of the pa�k was there prior
to the area becomi�g park land. Gerhardson said the property where the lot is located was
the only buildable lot, and the park lar�d area is filled vretlands.
Under�-Iighwood nature area, Wilson asked that the ci�aracter state that the natur�trail
pres�rve is "partially surrounc3ing by" single family residential housing. The platted
alleyway wiD aiso be noted on the map. Wilson also suggested the specific
recommendarions note the need for a boardwalk. Gerttardson will be checking on a
possihle smalier sign to be ptaced near the road. Wilson witt vbtain ihe history of tt�e park
and how the City came to purchase the property for inclusion under the not�s and
comments section.
Under Na�varre Mini-Park, the poor quality of the playground equipment was noted. The
chain link fence will be relocated to facilitate access frorn the neighborhaad, instead of
being rernoved. Gerhardson suggested the fence on CoRt! 19 sid�remain and fencing be
placed along tlie back s�de of the pragerty. The personal notation ("I believe"}will be
deleted under speci�i�recommendations. Schultz sug�ested the removal of 1 or 2 trees or
trimming down of trees to eliminate the darkness within the park area. It was noted th�t
the CDB�reference is to Cammunity Developrr�ent Block Grant funding.
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MIl�UTES OF '��REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSI4�`�T
MEETING HELD ON AUGUST 5, 1996
(#3 - Discussion with Summer Intern - Continued)
Ftint expressed lus appreciation of the exceltent job performed by Schulta. Schultz wi11
send further park classification infotznation directly to the Commissicx�ers prior to the next
Park Cammission meetin�in vrder to speed up tiie process.
(#�) PARI�S IVIAST'ER PLAN
A. REVIEW OF JQINT WU�tK SESSIQN
8. N�XT STEFS
A memo from City Administrator Nloorse identified five areas where the Park Cummission
should concentrate their efforts as a result of the recent work session with ths Council.
These areas are 1) identifying a�en space, 2)lang term funding, 3)higher activity park
areas or community play fields, 4)tree plartting and pFeservation program, in which
cirizens would be encouraged to beeome invc�lved, and 5) Highway 12 corridor process.
Two areas sug�ested by Mayor Call�han for the Park Commission to becoine involved
with were identification vf land for op�n space, which would be included under it�rrY 1,
and determination whether there are facility needs for team sport activities, which would
be included under item 3. The Park Master Plan concepts were accepted by the Councit
with only a change of wordiz�g from "will" to "shall". The intent is now to move forward
with the five areas.
The Commission determined that area 5 regarding the Hwy 12 Corridar could be handled
by the entire Commission at this time, even thaugh it is unknown exactly rvhere the
hi�hway will go. McDe�-mott was af the opinion that ideas need te he p}anted now
regarding gark usage along the highway or it wili be tao tate. He suggested looking at
those lots which will be�ondemned. A recvmmendation�vi�l be drawr�up to cor�sider at
the Octaber meeting to pass on to Mxs/I?{�T.
Area I, park and open space tdentificatian, �ril} be under�aken by a sub-committee af
Wilsvn as chair, McDermatt, and McMillan. The subcommittee will review parcels of
land for availability and make recQmmendations.
Area 2, }ong term fundin�, wiil be undertaken by a subcommittee of VVhit$ as ct�air, Flint,
and Bea�. The park plan recommendations for fu�ding wil!be studied. Scttultz said he
also has ideas for ttus area. McDermott said the committee should �Iso look �t ways the
City can buitd park plannin� and maintenance intp the regular City budget,
Area 3, community ptay fields and higher activity park areas, wi11 be urnlertaken by
subcommittee with Ilse as chair and VVhite. Evaluation of the need for a comm�nity play
field in O�ono should be dane as well as coordinating with other communities and sehoa}s
for facility needs. The cominittee v►n`lt evaluate the need for and possibte locations of
organized leagues a,nd team sports.
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR OR4N0 PARK Ct3ZVINIISSION
MEETING HELD 4N AIJGUST 5, 1996
(#4 -Park Master Plan - Continued)
Area 4, private tree planting program, wil�be undertaken bq a subcommittee hy McMillan
as chair and Wilson and BeaL McMillan suggested a lake forest pro�'am reviewing tree
avaitab�lity using Gerhardson's input.
McDermott asked to revisit the park master plan and evaluate each suhheading. Flint said
he preferred the broad categories without all the detail. McDermott was cor�cerned that
the plan would lack direc�ion. MclViillan did not be�ieve the Couneii wanted a
cvmprehensive plan, or to officially amend the current plan, but only a working guideiine.
The Gommission will rev�ew tne draft and goals to determine a working document at the
September meeting. The Corr�r�issivn will consider a final document after the task forces
review the five highlighted �reas. The Commission will also look at the areas which the
Commissionsrs feel are not being addressed by the task force at the September meeting.
Wilson commented that the plan drafted by McDermott has been suCcessful and
productive�nd allowed the City Council and Park Cornmission to}ook at the bi�picture.
(#5) DISCUSSION UF LOOSE ENDS REMAINING FRUM FARK TClUR
The park areas seen c}uring the 3une Park Tour were reviewed.
In Crystal BaX Park, it was noted that th�sidewatk near the post office and fencing along
the south side still remain to be completed. Wilson reported that a neigt�bor abutting the
area to be fenced prefers no screening. McDermatt sug�ested instaltir►g a cauple af
sections of fence to create the separation. Wilson suggested reviewing it again in the
spring and pcassibly using plantings for screening. The cement pad has been pdured for the
swin� set far the aisabled. The footing is in �lace for the scooper. Curing time is
necessary beFore the fall absorption material is laid. Wi�son voiced cancern over t6e
cement posing a dangerous situation for children. Gerhardson is in contact with the
contractor, who should be comple�tin$ this project in the near future. The ramp to enter
this area has not been constructed. Gerhardson reported that the wiring should a�so be
completed soon.
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MINUTES OF TI�REGULAR ORON4 PARK COMMISSION
MEETING HELD Ql� AUGUST 5, 1996
(#5 -Discussion of Park Tour-Continued)
McMillan reported that an ice rink would be the next consideration for the park. She
noted a flooding procedure, which would nat reyuire grading, but use snow berms. This
procecture is begun once frost is a foot into the ground and snow is pushed to create the
berm, which woutd then freeze. The ground is then�ightiy sprayed sever�l times prior to
actual flooding. McMillan reported, accarding to Rink Systems, only ],l/2" of ice is
necessary. Gerhardson said this could be attempted addin�that the well would have to be
reactivated. Wilson suggested placing the rink in the play fie�d area. Gerhardson was
concerned with the grade of that area. The Commission witt review tl�e area priar to neat
meeting to make further determination on the ice rink location. After reviewing the
topographic map on the park, Gerhardson suggested the rink be placed in the area to the
west near the homes with fill added to the area to level it off. The well is near the tree line
to the south of this area. McMillan suggested a light be added. Gerhardson said a
directional light could be installed on the pawer pole by the intersection. The Commission
noted a possible problem with encroachment by the neighbors into the park itself.
Lake Access - Sandy B�ach was a stop on the tour. It is the intent of the Commission to
determine the location of the beaches. The fire}anes have genet-ally tseen used for access
and swimming. Use and maintea�ance has nat been documented. Residents are not beir�
encouraged to enter the lake from the fire lanes when installi�tg fish houses as they tend to
cause erosion to the shoreline. A 1is�is hein�develnped of the fire Ianes to see what the
City wants to do and where maintenanee �houid take place.
Lowrv Woods - Letters have beet� sent to the property owner near Lowry�oods where
an easement is desired for access into Lowry Wvods. No respanse yet.
Saga Hill - The purchase of the Saga Hill l l acre bank property has been completed and is
now owned by the City. Access is still an issue of concern and yet to be determined.
Wilson volunteered to work with the Saga Hill group in making and maintaining traiis.
Dickey Propertv - The Dickey property was not toured as originally planned. McDermott
inquired about a neighboring garage, which encroached into the property. Gerhardson
said he has received no response fram the neighbor after sending a Ietter but it appears the
garage may have been moved. It was noted that the foundation of the old bar►�still
remains. 'The interior trails need to he addressed with the developer.
DNR Boat Ramp - A fisl�ing pier and the DNR boat ramp access atso were toured.
McDermott said the Narrows Bridge pier construction l�as begun and the County is
reconfiguring the boat landit�g at North Arm. The DNR is to begin construction this fall.
Hi�hwaod l�ature Area - A sign near the road at Highwood Nature Area will be installed.
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MINUTES 4F '£HE REGUI,,AR 4RON4 PARK CQMMISSION
MEETING HELD ON AUGUST S, 1946
(#5 -Discussion of Park Tour- Continuec�)
Antoine Aark - The conditions at Antoine Park were discussed. The building on the
property needs ta be removed. The play ground equipment also needs replacernent. It
was previously deternunec!that the ice skating rink was eiiminatect at this park due to non
use. The Commission was expect�ng representatives af this neighborhoad to be at this
meeting. Gerhardson was asked to call representatives to ask for their input irno the
equipment as well as receiving demographics on the area. Wilson sugges#ed entertairring
play gro�nd equipment�deas. McMiltan suggested instalting several new pieces of
eyuipment that are conducive to al�parks and suitabte to several age graups, remove the
buildings, and leave the remaining as open space. She was eoncerned with ignoring the
park untii the neighbors came forward. Flint said he did not wish to spend the money on
equipment without the interest oFthe neighborhood, It was deternuned that Gerfiardson
wi11 notify the n�ighbors via a letter inforn�ing them that the Commission is w�iting to t�ear
fram them befc�re any plans are made within the park. Gerhardson, meanwhile, will obtain
an estimate for removal of the buitdings.
(#6) aTHER BUSINESS
No additional items were discussed.
ADJOURNMENT
Wilson moved, McMiltan seconded, to adjvin at 9:55 p.m. Vote: Ayes 5, Nays 0,
'ci�ard N. Flint, Chair
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