HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-02-1996 Park Commission Minutes ORONO PARK COMMISSION NIEETING
MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 2, 1996
ATTENDANCE
The Park Commission met on the above mentioned date with the following members
present: Chair Richard Flint, Commissioners Susan Wilson, Andrew McDermott, and
James White. Representing Staff were Public Works Director John Gerhardson and
Recorder Sherry Frost. Chair Flint called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.
(#1) REVIEW DRAFT COPY OF MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 4, 1996 FOR
APPROVAL IN JANUARY, 1997
Flint asked Commissioners for any comments regarding the minutes. Flint will review
draft for corrections.
(#2) FOLLOW-UP ON WORK BY CITY INTERN, MICHAEL SCHULTZ
Schultz was not in attendance at the meeting as requested by the Park Commission. rie
has told the City that he will have the work done and be a tthe January Park Commission
Meeting.
(#3) FRIEN�S OF THE PARK AWARD
White suggested Jason Christenson and the Saga Hill Preservation Society be designated
recipients of the award.
Wilson a�reed with the nomination of the Saga Hill group and also asked for consideration
of Kay Cram and Bruce Dayton, both of whom have contributed large parcels of land.
Cram's conservation easement allows her to retain her hamestead. It was noted that
Cram's contribution is to the Minnesota Land Trust while Dayton's is to the DNR. Due to
Saga Hill's contribution being directly to the City, the Commission decided that they
should receive the nomination.
Wilson indicated the nomination of Christenson would encourage others to make similar
contributions.
The Commission decided that both the organization and individual should be recognized
by the award as has been the case in the past citing recognition of the OBA and Girl Scout
Troops in one year.
McDermott moved, Wilson secanded, to recognize Jason Christenson and the Saga Hill
Preservation Society for the Friend of the Parks Award for 1996. Vote: Ayes 4, Nays 0.
A chairperson to head up the award ceremony at the February meeting will be determined
in 7anuary.
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M11�TUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK CONArIISSION
MEETING HELD ON DECEMBER 2, 1996
(#4) PARK 1VIASTER PLAN FOLLOW-UP
A. PARK AND OPEN SPACE IDENTIFICATION (WILSON, CHAIIt}
Wilson and McDermott reviewed their list of properties identified for possible park and
open space uses in the future. The list was presented for input by the Commissioners to
be prepared for presentation to the Council.
Wilson said the City was looked at section by section for parcels of 10+ acres wtuch have
not been subdivided and are generally privatety owned. McDermott and Wilson reviewed
the parcels for indication of reasons for future preservation to which the Council should be
aware.
The list was presented and is as follows beginning with the northwest moving clockwise to
the south:
Northwest Quadrant of the City -
1) 18 acre parcel- Camp Tiko on North Arm - Wi1sQn reported that the camp is
surrounded by high density and would be a great location for a future park and for a
possible conservation easement.
2) Property adjacent to Cygnet and Watertown - Wilson noted this property ta be
somewhat controversial as to need but recognized as a small wooded lot with moderate
density for a possible tot lot. There are larger parcels nearby which could be consider for
a conununity park when subdivision occurs. The area is also near or in the area of the new
Hwy l2 Corridor. V�ilson indicated this property would be listed low on the level of
priority.
Flint said he was made aware of the high number of Orono passive parks as he reviewed
the inventory list. He noted consideration should be given to community play fields as
well. Wilsan stated people move to the area because of its rural feeL McDermott felt the
younger housel�olds moving in will want more active parks.
3) Property Adjacent to Luce Line on McCuiley Road - This property is owned by the
City. Wilson asked if the parking was provided by the City. Gerhardson recognized the
parking but said it was being used unofficially. Wilson suggested the land be sold to the
DNR. Gerhardson said 40 acres had been purchased from the land owners. He noted
parking is provided for the Luce Line at Stubbs Bay Raad where motorized vehicles begin
to be allowed. Gerhardson said the property is zoned 5 acre. The land maintenance could
possibly be shared by the City and the DNR. He noted the neighbors would be interested
in knowing who owns and maintains the land. There is no designated use for the land at
this time.
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR C1RflN0 PARK COMMISSION
MEETING H:ELD ON D�CEMBER 2, 1996
{#4A - Park and Open Space Identification - Continued)
4) F1int asked that the land between Lowry Woods and the Luce Line be added to the
list of passibilities because it would provide public access ta Lowry Woods from the Luce
Line. He said the land is unbuildable and should not be expensive to purchase.
McDernlott inquired about the triangular piece of land between Lowry Woods and CoRd
83 which is being considered for access to Lawry Woods. Gerhardson said the land has
recentty changed hands. A neighbor was given the first right to purchase. The new owner
will be notifying Gerhardson soon regarding his interest in allowing the City access.
5) Wiison noted a nearby 23 acre parcel owned by Mr. Melrose which she felt should be
added to the list.
NorEheast Quadrant of the City -
6) b4 acre parcel east of the schools at Willow and CoRd 6 - Wilson said this property
should be considered far a community park as it is near the schools, level, and easy to
access. McDertnott felt the property was further away from the concentration and center
of the population. Flint inquired about the terrain and noted a past application for
subdivision of this property which was withdrawn at�er Council's denial of a dense
subdivision. Wilson noted that the City would not require the entire parcel for the
community play field.
Flint suggested other possibilities near Hwy l 2 noting the loss of Holbrook with the new
Hwy 12 Corridor and the need for park mitigation as a result. He asked that the
committee look at the population and surrounding cities as a whole in determining what
makes sense regarding the community play field location. McDermatt said he was
concerned that organizations would ask what Orono is providing if the play field was
located in Long Lake. Wilson indicated anather large parcel by Lake Classen but said it
would not be as desirable.
7) 14 acres north of French Creek Preserve- Wilson suggested a portion of the
property directly north of the preserve should be obtained to develap a buffer for the
preserve and to allow animals to pass.
8) Hackberry tot - Wilson noted this residential lot is located within the configuration of
the park and should be purchased when it becomes available.
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MINUTES OF THE RECrULAR QRQNO PARK COMMISSION
MEETING HELD ON DECEMBER 2, 1996
(#4A-Park and Open Space Identification - Continued)
9) City Pi•operty in Northeast Corner of Luce Line and Hwy 12 - Wilson suggested
this property be sold to the DNR Division which is administering the property donated by
Bruce Dayton. The property is next to that owned by Dayton and is naw in tax forfeiture.
It mainly consists of wetlands but would allow for access to the Dayton property. The
ecosystem of the property is also consistent with that found in the Dayton property.
Gerhardson said he would advise Gaffron that Wilson will be calling him regarding this
issue.
10) 26 acre parcel on the west end of Long Lake-Wilson feit this parcel would be
good for a neighborhood park in the densely populated area. It is the last large parcel left
in this 2 acre zoning area. Flint disagreed with the need for a park in this area noting the
many recreational parks surrounding it with Lee Carlson Fields, Wolsfeld, and Long Lake
Beach. It was noted that there is no trail around Long Lake. This parcei was removed
from the last after discussion.
11) Lot next to Orono Gotf Course- Wilso�noted this property is for sale. Flint
suggested a better alternative would be 12} the 13 acre McMiltan property as a possible
neighborhoad park Gerhardson said the property is not available and saw the McMillan's
as probably desiring to purchase more of the surraunding property themselves.
McDermott said the long term opportunities need to be considered noting the loss of
prime properties in the past due to short sightedness. Flint indieated there were a large
number of golf courses in Qrono.
13} 10 acre property near Railroad Tracks and Hwy 12 - near Luce Line and Long
Lake - Wiison said she would look into this property for its possibilities.
Properties to the South -
14) 9.9 acre in Navarre- This property is the only large piece of land left in Navarre.
The back portion is wooded. The road dead ends into it. Gerhardson said the property
was previausly awned by Tonka Tays. He said the road is in place to be e�ended once
further subdivisions occur. He was concerned over the need to destroy the woods as it
would result in ciear cutting of them for any type of recreational use. He indicated the
remaining portion of the land is wetlands. Gerhardson saw the parcel as a great walking
area. White said the nearby Spring Park park meets the needs of the people in the area.
White said he would preview the property as well as that owned by the County for their
maintenance yard.
15} Veterans Camp on Big Is(and
16} Triangle Piece af Land between Navarre Lane and CaRd 19 - Wilson was
infarmed that this property is the piece being reviewed under the O'Sullivan application.
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11�IINUTES t�F THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMIS5I�N
MEETING HELD ON DECEMBER 2, 1996
(#4A-Park and Open Space Identification - Contmued}
17}Land Behind Ice Rink- Gerhardson noted the land as nice high ground.
18) Lots araund Highwood - Gerhardson indicated there is good frontage for access.
19} Soccer Fietd Area by Minnetonka Art Center- Wilson noted the area was
problematic and should probably be eliminated.
1�'ilson indicated there were few parcels of land far recommendation in the southern
portion of the City as it is densely populated.
20) Land owned by 1VIr. Lupient- White noted this land as being a beautiful natural area
and should be considered for a conservation easement.
B. LONG TERM FUNDING (WHITE, CHAIRj
White reported he has begun accumulating information and ideas on funding. He noted
aptions available of royalties, community center development, permit fees, and annual
fees. �ite met with a member of the State Department af Transportation, who informed
him af funding available through alternative transportatian mades, such as ISTEA.
Flint indicated revenues were another area fc�r funding. He cited an example of summer
recreation programs which are budgeted by cities. White noted the survey did indicate the
residents would be willing to pay more for certain activities.
White will provide additianal information at the January meeting.
C. COMMUNITY PLAY FIELDS AND HIGHER ACTIV[TY PARK AREAS
(iLSE, CHATR)
No report was given.
D, TREE PLANTINGS AND NATURAL BUFFER ZONES (BEAL, CHAIR)
Na repart was given. A committee update was provided in November.
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORON4 PARK C4MMISSION
MEETING HELD ON DECEMBER 2, 1996
(#5) �THER BUSINESS
Bederwood Ice Rink- Wilson reported having spoken ta the maintenance workers at
Bederwood regarding the ice rink. She was informed that the ground was at a slant
causing water to runoff to the southwest towards the Luce Line and creating the inability
to flood the rink evenly. They suggested boards be placed to eliminate this problem.
Wilson informed Gerharc3son of this problem. She does not feel it is worth flooding the
rink unless this problem is remedied. Gerhardson reported the ice being in excellent
condition last year. Wilson infornied hitn that the workers felt otherwise. Gerhardson will
follow up on this issue.
Antoine Park- Flint reported that the committee for improving Antoine Park has met and
is awaiting authority regarding financing the improvements. It was noted that the Council
has received reports on the projected improvements as well as being in attendance during
the Park Tour where neighbors voiced the needs of the park.
Flint indicated Ilse has asked where the funding would come from for the removal of the
barn. Gerhardson said this has not been determined. Noting it is a City facility, Flint
asked Gerhardson to find out information regarding budgeting for the park Park
Dedication Fund can be used towards capital improvements only. Gerhardson stated there
is alot to be done before the work can commence citing a plan, equipment and its
placement, and grading. Demolition cost was said to run about $6,500 in addition to the
$25,000-$30,OQ0 barn renovation and removal.
Antoine Park will be discussed at the January meetin�,
Traii on O'Sullivan Property -Flint reported a meeting is scheduled for Thursday,
December 5, at 9:00 a.m. to be held at the property to discuss the trail placement.
McDernlott and Flint witt attend the meeting.
McDermott updated the Cammission on the project and Navarre Lane vacation discussed
at the November Planning Commission lYleeting. Gaffron appeared before the Park
Commission last month to update the Comnvssion on what is involved for the project and
for a recommendation on a trail. The Park Commission recommendation made was for a
trail to run along Navarre Lane instead of along the center of�live Avenue and down
south to CoRd 19 along O'Sullivan's property as recommended by O'Sullivan. Flint said
Gaffron has suggested a stairway leading up to a path where Navarre Lane is located.
This does create a problem with biking and handicap access. O'Sullivan has suggested the
stairway along with the trail along Olive Avenue_ McDermott noted the pros and cons of
the trail options previously presented by Gaffron.
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR �RONO PARK COMMISSION
MEETING HELD ON DECEMBER 2, 1996
{#5 - Other Business - Continued)
Wilson suggested the area would have made a nice park. Flint nated the area is very
commercial and probably not conducive to having a park. McDermott indicated it is the
oniy large parcel left in Navarre. Flint indicated the property should be oriented to use by
people walking or biking, not merely to people in automobiles. The Commission agreed
that the time has past for such a suggestion. McDermott noted the triangular piece of land
at the corner of CoRds 15 and 19 is land set aside and owned by the County for a future
turn lane.
McDermott indicated the Planning Commissian was non-committal at ttiis point regarding
the trail location.
McDermott said he reported to the Council regarding the plans at Antoine and the
concerns regarding Navarre Lane. The Council addressed the issue of access at Saga Hill
at their meetin�. McDermott reported the discussions at that meeting regarding a 60'
platted Garden Lane far park land access. This undeveloped road is the only access to
serve severallots at this point. Should Garden Lane be developed, it would likely occur
from a request of a developer. McDermott indicated Moorse had several options for
access to include replatting of the property and exchanging a lot for a lot to enable easier
access without interferring with the ravine through Garden Lane. The Council then asked
the Park and Planning Commissions ta review.
Flint reported he prefers the use of Fairview Church parking lot for access as it is less
intrusive of the neighborhoad and park land. This solution has been deemed only
temporary. McDermott said the City needs to know where the access will be for the
buiidable lots on Saga Hill. Moorse will present the options to the Park Commission at
the January r��eeting for their review.
Chris Morgard, a representative of Saga Hill Group, who resides on Wildhurst Trail, cited
the problems represented by the park land property with development, lack of closure of
the tax forfeit parcel, aecess problem through the Valek property, preservation of the land,
and access to that land. He suggested the City should just put the road in where it wants
to, i.e, offof Tonkaview with a small area for parking. Wilson noted the intent of the
Saga Hill park land is for walking trails. McDermott agreed there is a problem with
parking availability. Morgard asked what the rule of thumb is regarding the amount of
parking. He was informed that only 2-3 parking sta(Is would be necessary. White
indicated the more natural the property is left, the more desirable it will be for the
neighborhood.
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR(}Rf�NO PARK COMMISSION
MEETING HELD ON DECEIVIBER 2, 1996
ADJOURNMENT
1�'ilson moved, White seconded, ta adjourn at 9:30 p.m. Ayes 4, Nays 0.
�
r ��
Richard N. Flint, Chair
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