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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-07-1996 Park Commission Minutes ORONO PARK COMMISSIQN MEETING MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 7, 1996 ATTENDANCE The Park Commission met on the above mentioned date with the following members present: Chair Richard Flint, Commissioners Susan Wilson, Sherokee Ilse, David Beal, and Jim White. Andrew McDermott was absent. Chair Flint called the meeting to order at 7:25 p.m. (#1) APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 3, 1996 MEETING The revisions noted under agenda item#5 were entered into the minutes on page 4 to reflect the changes. On page 7, the third paragraph under Other Business. The third sentence was shortened to state, "Other maintenance needs were noted." The spelling of Lydiard Beach was corrected in paragraph 5. (#2) ANTOINE PARK DISCUSSION The Antoine Park neighborhood was represented by apro�mately twenty persons. Spokeswomen, Karen Hansen and Coilette Roberts, reported on the needs at the park. Hansen reported that a survey was conducted of the neighborhood in the summer of 1996. 36 surveys were returned of the 56 homes surveyed, a 64% response rate. It was found that there are 40+ children in the neighborhood, 20 of whom are age 8 and under, 10 of whom are 9 to 14, and 10 of whom are 15 to 21. Another 42 to 50 children visit relatives in the neighborhood.. Of those surveyed, 72% rated the playground below average. 55% reported they did not use the park very much anymore due to being inappropriate, unsafe, and lacking equipment. 11% stated they used the park three or more times per week. Hansen noted that children have been hurt on the jungle gyms, the slide is probably higher than allowed under the safety requirements, the sand depth is less than it should be, and the equipment pieces are spread out too far. The neighbors would like the equipment closer together to allow for easier overseeing of their children. If the equipment was upgraded, 72% said they would use it more, while 16% said they would not. Types of equipment requested included baby swings, regular swings, a tire swing, climbing apparatus, sand diggers, and an air slider(trolley). Those surveyed also strongly requested a half-court basketball. It was noted that half of the children are in the age group to use a basketball court as well as the adults. More picnic tables were also suggested. There are two currently in the park. Hansen said the issue of the barn was an emotional one. The barn is part of the Fagerness Point story, and many find it difficult to see it torn down. Comments received asked whether the barn could be repaired to allow for use as a picnic shelter or possibly a warming house. The current condition of the barn is unsafe, especially the roof. Vandalism has also occurred. 1 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 7, 1996 (#2 Antoine Park Discussion- Continued} Hansen reported that the majority of the neighbors were unaware of the closing of the ice rink. 67% would like to see it reopened, while 36% were not interested. Those interested in having a rink would use it more if the ice condition was improved, a warming house was available, and there were lights by which to skate at night. It was said that the ice had a smell and left a chalky residue on clothing. Hansen said there is a light for the rink, but it is on only sporadically. Another concern voiced was for "watch for children" signs. The neighbors would like to see another sign placed near the park. Wilson asked if there was a need for fencing. Roberts said the berm provides protection and a partial fence is located along the road. Hansen noted that the cars driving too fast are generally residents of the area. Roberts passed out pictures of equipment from other parks, which they would like to see in Antoine. Roberts said the park land itself is nice but the equipment needs to be upgraded. It was noted that the neighbors would be willing to assist in erecting equipment or maintaining an ice rink if necessary. Wilson informed the neighbors that the rink was closed due to the problem with appropriate maintenance. The City felt it was necessary to work on establishing good ice at a few parks rather than poor ice at more. Wilson said she would be interested in reconsidering the ice rink. Hansen noted that another suggestion was a tennis court, but it was not as high on the priority list. The neighbors would like the park as a place to gather. Flint noted the importance of working with the neighbors. He cited the example of Bederwood Park and its use by families. He said he was concerned with upkeep due to the small number of City staff available for maintenance of parks. Flint said it is frustrating to find parks not being maintained properly. He cited the trees now dead at Crystal Bay Park due to lack of watering. He was also concerned with the barn and the immediate need to deal with the issue af its condition. The old barn at the Dickey property was noted. Without proper funding, the barn had become an attractive nuisance, and was torn down. Wilson informed the neighbors that residents have been successful in the past in raising funds to help pay for equipment, such as basketball courts. 2 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 7, 1996 (#2 Antoine Park Discussion - Continued) Roberts responded that the park would receive support from the neighbors. She cited the annual Memorial Day picnic which takes place in the park. The neighbors wanted to present their survey and see what the next step might be. Roberts said fund raising might be possible and would like to see a schedule for improvements. Flint said the improvements would have to be prioritized. He suggested a committee be formed consisting of Park Commissioners and interested neighbors to further pursue the issue. Flint said the Park Commission supports improving the park and would like to work together with the neighbors. Following a straw vote of those present, it was determined that the neighbors preferred a half-court basketball over swings as the first phase. Hansen said it was her preference for playground equipment with half of the children being under 8 years of age. Ilse said the needs can be phased in. The budget would have to be determined, and the neighbors could determine what the first needs are for the park. Ilse said she was happy to see so many children in attendance at the meeting. Ilse asked if there was any need for benches noting those made this past year by an Eagle Scout for other parks. It was added that the labor was donated, and the City paid for the materials. Paul Bozorie said he has lived in the neighborhood for 25 years. He is very concerned with the unsafe condition of the barn and outbuildings noting shingles have been taken fi-om the roof. Bozorie considers the barn as the first priority. He also noted that the ice rink had been paorly and improperly maintained. The poor conditian was due to both weather conditions and staff. Bozorie said the rink maintenance employee would just leave a hose on the ground running water onto the rink Beal inquired if the building could be razed into a low spot. Bozorie said the foundation is cinder block He reported there has been contamination of the wood by animals and the like noting the heavy smells. Bozorie suggested a lean-to type construction would be beneficial. The barn had been used to store City equipment up to this year. White questioned the parking issue. Hansen said most of the people walk to the park. There was said to be adequate parking. Flint informed the neighbors that based on the Commission's previous experience at Hackberry, a half-court basketball would cast about $8,000. The expense would be with the playground equipment. He suggested Landscape Structures as a possible provider for the equipment, noting the quality of their product. The owners of this company, Steve and Barbara King live in Long Lake and have donated equipment to a park in Long Lake. He suggested they be approached concerning a partial donation of playground equipment at Antoine. 3 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION n�ETING HELD ON OCTOBER 7, 1996 (#2 Antoine Park Discussion - Continued) A committee was appointed consisting of Beal as chair, Ilse, and neighborhood representatives, Karen Hansen, Collette Roberts, Paul Bozorie, and John Thimmesh. The neighbors were informed that any final decisions regarding expenditure of funds would be made by the City Council. Costs for park improvements were said to generally come out of the Park Dedication Fund. White noted that based on comments made on the Park tour, the Council was in favor of making improvements to the park. Wilson asked that the safety issues be addressed immediately. It was noted that signs such as requested were probably readily available. Another neighbor asked about street repair. He was referred to John Gerhardson, since this is not a matter for the Park Commission. The Commissioners discussed equipment costs and the need to provide handicapped accessible equipment. It was noted that the costs could be saved by using City staff and demolishing old playground equipment and the barn at the same time. Beal asked about a lean-to shelter. McMillan said the foundation should be inspected. The committee will consider what should be done with the barn and make recommendations. It was suggested that Beal meet with Gerhardson to discuss the park prior to the committee's first meeting. (#3) LILI MCMILLAN RESiGNATION - TRANSFER OF RESPOIYSBILITIES Flint noted changes within the Park Commissioners, asked for consideration of input regarding chair rotation, and asked for interest in the vice-chair position. Wilson indieated her interest in being vice-chair. With McMillan's move to the Planning Commission, she distributed information pertinent to the Park Commission among those in attendance. Information on tree preservation was given to Beal and Crystal Bay Park to Wilson. McMillan suggested the gazebo and ice rink be regarded in phase 2 of Crystal Bay Park improvements. She asked that the Commission consider a kidney-shaped rink and �;ave support through a letter on why the gazebo and ice rink should be located near each other. McMillan said the least priority at this time was a basketball court. Wilson will contact Susan Tenney, a neighbor of Crystal Bay Park, for input and will consider changes in the subcommittee. Wilson voiced concern over maintenance of the park. McMillan noted that the spruce trees were donated by a neighbor, who will water them. She also suggested deciduous trees be planted in the spring. Wilson commented on the new trellises on the post office. � MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK CONIMISSION MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 7, 1996 (#3 McMillan Trar�sfer Qf Responsibilities - Continued) Wilson noted the need for a park maintenance schedule to eliminate problems occurring in the future. A list will be drawn and given to Staff. Ilse suggested tying a maintenance list in with the Park Master Plan. Wilson responded that the maintenance needs will change. Flint said the park inventory will be a good referral for incoming personnel. McMillan passed information to Ilse on Friends of the Park Award. Flint extended his appreciation of McMillan and the service she has provided. He noted that she will be a great asset to the Planning Commission with her awareness of open space and other information gained while on the Park Commission. McMillan said she will make every attempt to bridge the gap between the two commissions. (#4) FINAL REPORT BY CITY INTERN, MICHAEL SCHULTZ Schultz was unable to attend the meeting. Flint expressed his regard for the work done by Schultz adding that the park inventory deserves further study. He added that some of the most noted accomplishments of the Park Commission have been French Creek Preserve, Saga Hill, Lowry Woods, the bikelhike trail, and now, this report. Flint said he saw the need for some changes to the specific recommendations made and asked if they should be addressed individually or discussed further at this time. White suggested that the specific recommendations should be moved to the end of the park report for updating in the future. After further discussion, it was agreed that the "specific recommendation" category under each park be listed on a separate sheet to be used for action in the future by the Park Commission. Individual comments are to be given to Carole Haseman by October 21. The recommendations will then be discussed at the November meeting. The park inventory was divided among the Commissioners for their comments as follows: Antoine - Beal Bederwood - Ilse Casco Point Park, Ice Rink, and Beach- White Crystal Bay Playgraund - Wilson Cygnet -Wilson Dickey- Ilse French Creek Preserve - Wilson Hackberry - Flint Highwood Nature Trail - Wilson Lee Carlson Ballfields - NEEDS TO BE ADDED TO THE INVENTORY Livingston Tower - White (note change ta alphabetical order) Lowry Woods - �Vilson Lydiard Beach - McDermott 5 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 7, 1996 (#4 Park Inventory Report - Continued) Navarre - McDermott Saga Hill - Wilson Sandy Beach - McDermott Summit Beach - Flint White questioned how tax forfeiture parcels were handled and paid for and asked that further review be done. Schultz will be asked to attend the November meeting of the Park Commission. White suggested numbering the pages of the Park Inventory and have it correspond to the master list of parks for easy reference. Schultz also was asked to add a photograph cover letter and bind the reports. The recommendation was made to add a map to the inventory showing the location of each park and bound within the report. The parks will be numbered on the map to correspond with the numbering within the report. Beal informed the Commission that his son would be willing to volunteer his time to mark out trails. Flint said this could be reviewed in the spring. Highwood and Saga Hill were suggested as areas needing trail marking. (#5) REVISION OF PARK COMMISSION REPRESENTATION AT CITY COUNTY MEETINGS The revised list is as follows: October 14 - Flint October 28 - White November 11 - Wilson November 25 - McDermott December 9 - Ilse January 13 - Beal (#6) PARKS MASTER PLAN FOLLOW UP: A. PARK& OPEN SPACE IDENTIFICATION (W[LSON-CHAIR} B. LONG TERM FUNDING (WHITE-CHAIR) C. COMMUNiTY PLAY FIELDS AND HIGHER ACTIVITY PARK AREAS (ILSE-CHAIR) D. TREE PLANTINGS AND NATURAL BUFFER ZONES (BEAL- CHAIR) � MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 7, 1996 (#6 Parks Master Plan - Continued) Flint commented that the recommendations made by the Park Commission at their October meeting regarding Hwy 12 are very relevant to what is currently going on and is the next step in the process (See page 6, agenda item 6E, of the September 3, 1996 Park Commission Minutes). He noted how Mn/DOT will pay for land taken and grant a severance to the remaining portion of the parcel. This land could possibly be used for park land consideration. The Commission's recommendations will be passed on to the City Council and Mn/DOT. It was noted that Beal will chair Tree Plantings(6D). Ilse asked for further information on what is expected regarding Community Play Fields and Higher Activity Areas. Flint said the Council asked for Park Commission recommendation on whether they was a need for such a play field. Flint asked that Ilse work with the school district regarding the issue. Ilse said it was in discussion now by the Orono School District but noted it does not include the Mound School District. The Commission is of the opinion that both Orono and Mound/Westonka School Districts should be aware of and involved in this planning. (#7) CONSIDERATION OF FRIENDS OF THE PARK AWARD The Commissioners will make a decision on candidates to which they would like to extend the Friends of the Park Award to for this year. The awards will be given out early in 1997. In addition to those discussed at the September meeting, Kay Cram was placed on the list to be considered for her role modeling. White suggested Lili McMillan. It was agreed that McMillan should be recognized for her service to the City as a Park Commissioner at the Council level, not via the Friends of the Park Award. (#8) REPORT ON CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT RE: OLD CRYSTAL BAY BIKE TRAIL Flint reported that the contract for the construction of the bike trail has been let. The trail will be constructed from its current terminus north to the teen center. There is a question of where the construction shoutd begin due to delay in gaining easements south of the railroad. City staffwill assist in constructian near City Hall, when possible, to save on costs. The City already has begun some construction along Kelley Parkway. Flint noted that it was now up to Hennepin County Park Reserve District to construct the portion of the trail from Baker Park to Old Crystal Bay Road. (#9) OTHER BUSINESS No other business was reported. 7 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR 4RON0 PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 7, 1996 ADJOLTRNMENT Ilse moved, Beal seconded, to adjourn at 10:00 p.m. Vote: Ayes 5, Nays 0. , Richard N. Flint, Chair 8