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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-06-1997 Park Commission Minutes ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 6, 1997 ATTENDANCE The Park Commission met on the above mentioned date with the following members present: Acting Chair Susan Wilson, Andrew McDermott, Sherokee Ilse, James White, and David Beal. Richard Flint was absent. Representing Staff were Public Works Director John Gerhardson, Public Services Director Greg Gappa, and Recorder Sherry Frost. Acting Chair VVilson called the meeting to order at 7:23 p.m. (#1) APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 4, 1996 AND DECEMBER 2, 1996 MEETINGS The date and amount of Park Dedication Fund noted on page 2 was questioned. No changes were made at this time. Gerhardson will check for accuracy of information. Beal moved, McDermatt secanded, to approve the Minutes of the November 4, 1996 Park Commission Meeting. Vote: Ayes 4, Nays 0. (White was not present at this time.) Wilson moved, McDermott seconded, to approve the Minutes of the December 2, 1996 Meeting of the Park Commission. Vate: Ayes 4, Nays 0. (#lA) SAGA HILL Saga Hill property owners, Steven and Joan Valek of 4720 Tonkaview Lane, along with Chris Morgard, were present to express concerns regarding access to the park property. The Valek's property is adjacent to the Saga Hill park land, and they were the previous owners of the 9 acre tax farfeit parcel. Vatek said there were issues that were still needing resalutian and reported their unhappiness with having lost the 9 acre parcel. Valek said he understc�ad the aecess issue to the park land will be on the February 3 agenda of th�Park Commission but asked to relay infarmation relating to it prior to that meeting. Wilson asked him if the information related to the access issue. Valek said it primarily related to that issue but also to the fact of his being an adjacent property owner. Valek asked what the restrictions were on the park land property noting it was promoted as a nature trail and open space. He also mentioned the City described it as open space in their application for a grant from the DNR. Valek also voiced concern with the use of the park land by snowmobilers and questioned whether that use is allowed and will be in the future. He asked what responsibility the City has to police the park land and prevent nuisances especially during the night time hours. He noted the snowmobilers were going throu�h his property to gain access to the park land which relates to the access issue. , i MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETII�IG HELB ON JANUARY 6, 1997 (#1 A Saga Hi11 - Continued) Valek informed the Commission of his attempt to settle the access issue with the City over the past two years to no avail. He reported his ownership of two lots with a l 0' utility easement located between the two lots. Valek noted the easement was described in his abstract as a utility easement at the time af purchase in 1978. He reported he went over the easement issue at the time of purchase with the City inspector and was tald it was to be used for utilities only. Valek's driveway and yard are located over the easement area. Valek said the City informed him they were in approval of the use at that time and were planning to vacate the easement at some paint. Mrs. Valek said the easement is legally defined as a utility easement. Although Garden Lane is known to be the primary access ta the park land, Valek said the City has attempted to change his easement from 10' to 20' for access purposes. Valek toid the Commissioners that he was attending this meeting in order to ask the Park Commissian to recognize his concerns. He reported that he was informed by City Administrator Moorse in his attempt to settle the issue with the City that the Park and Planning Commissions were directed to settle the access issue. He asked if the Commission felt Garden Lane was adequate for access. Mrs. Valek also noted that the City has asked them to move their easement to their other lat which she said wauld destroy it. She nated it is a buildable lot with sewer assessment paid. Mrs. Valek said the City has been treating the easement as an access easement rather than as described in the abstract as what is a utility easement. Mrs. Valek relayed what the ordinance describes is a utility easement. She noted the drainage running through the easement goes through an alleyway, their yard, and on to a wetland area via the ravine with running into Forest Lake. Mr. Valek said the land was platted to provide drainage to the wetland. Valek informed Wilson when asked that he prefers access to the park land from Garden Lane. Wilson said the desire is to provide access to people without undue problems. Valek toid her that Garden Lane has been used as a trail to the park land along with access fron3 the church property parking lot. He noted the open fields where baseball is played has far many years been used to access the park land area. Wilson noted that the easement from the church property wouid be anly a temporary solution for the length of time the church would see fit to allow. Valek said he understood the church would allow the access as long as the land is used as apen space and there is opposition to any major develc�pment of the park land. He questioned what the view is af the property by the Commissioners. 2 MINUTES OF THE REGUI,qR ORONO PARK C(JMNIISSION MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 6, 1997 (#1 A- Saga Hi11 - Continued) McDermott noted there has been differing opinions from the Council regarding usage and access from the Valek's, the church property, or from Garden Lane. He believes Garden Lane is the most likely choice noting the possibility of rerouting the access so it would not cross over the ravine. McDermott said the road would remain the same. McDermott informed Valek the City was looking at different options presented regarding the access issue. McDermott nated that the park property itself is two separate parcels. The tax forfeit parcel is for City or park use and cannot be sold without reverting awnership back to the County. Gerhardson confirmed that the tax forfeit parcel can be used as a play ground or an active use. Wilson said it was her feeling that the park land would be left natural but the City did not wish to tie that usage for future years. McDermott reported the bank property parcel requires DNR approval for more active use other than being passive. He noted both parcels are considered City park land with general restrictions as noted in the ordinances whieh does include no motorized vehicles. He informed Valek that he by law can report snowmobiling problems to the police. It was also reported that the land will be posted with signage at points of access, mostly likely, near the church praperty and Garden Lane, Wilson asked Valek to inform his neighbors by word that no motorized vehicles are allowed. Ilse noted that a similar problem had developed at Bederwood and the people were informed to call the police. Gerhardson informed Valek to call the police and notify them of all snowmobiling incidents asking that he not be selective in his reporting. Wilson infQnned Valek that the Commission would look at his concerns regarding access. Valek reported that the easement is used as a utility easement and cannot be used for any other purposes. He nated that the utilities are buried under ground and go under his driveway. It was noted that the width of Tonkaview was narrow and does not allow for parking. McDermott noted that prior to the acquisition of the Saga Hill property, the only access to the tax forfeit parcel was through the Valek property easement. White informed Valek that he was entitled to a copy of the memorandum laying out the different options far access. Wilson asked Gerhardson to ohtain a copy for Valek. 3 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 6, 1997 (#3)ANTOjNE PARK UPDATE (BEAL) Karen Hansen and Collette Roberts were present representing the neighborhood committee. Gerhardson reported that design plans with sevecal layouts were available for review. In reviewing the layouts, Gerhardson noted one option allows for the building and rink areas to remain with the play ground e�uipment cancentrated in another area. The play ground equipment shown to be provided by the Delano Co. meets the needs presented by the neighborhood co�nmittee. There will be a pathway off of Fagerness Point Road for handicap access. White inquired abaut benches. Gerhardson said benches would be placed around the play ground area. Hansen and Roberts suggested a retired neighbor might be willing to make some benches. Ilse said she would like to see benches placed between the roadway and the equipment to eliminate the i-isks of children running out into the road. Committee members nated there were posts in place. Gerhardson said he preferred the posts be eliminated and trees planted. In discussing the play�round equipment, it was noted that pea rock is used instead of sand as it does not compress. The two different layouts were compared to determine a preference. The second layout shows the equipment spread out and making use of what was the rink area. Commissioners and committee members agreed they preferred the layout where the equipment is placed together and allows the play field area to remain for usage. Gerhardson noted that grading would be needed if the equipment was separated as the oi�ly fla�t area is by where the swings are now located. It was later noted that there is the possibility of not having any ice riril� again in the future due to the condition of the fill. This prflblem would have to be rectified first before any further consideration of an ice rink was made. Committee members were concerned with safety if cars aligned the Fagerness Point Road area with parking on the lawn. McDermott said he would prefer the ec�uipment be moved upwards on the property to allow a small parking area to be provided. The committee members preferred parking on Fagerness Point Road instead of on Corral. Gerhardson suggested extending the shoulder out and adding a storm sewer. White inquired about the tax forfeit pareel across the street. Gerhardson noted that property is made up of mainly wetlands. � MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 6, 1997 (#3 - Antoine Park Update - Continued) Gerhardson said the equipment would cost about $25,000 installed not including any site preparation. Bea1 said the cost with pea rock would run $28,134. The committee members asked if the neighbors could help defray some of the cost by helping with the installation. It was noted that the equipment company would guarantee the equipment as long as a company representative was present during installation. The neighbors noted there were several construction workers amongst the neighbors and �uaranteed the neighbors would assist with the installation. It was nQted that the neighborhood survey results indicated 75% of those polled would be willing to help. Discussion was had regarding whether formal bids would have ta be taken. Gerhardson said a formal quote is required with fornial bidding over $25,000. He reported that Gappa and Moorse are in the process of reviewing whether any further bidding is required. A determination needs to be made whether the cast of the equipment can be separated from the installation and grading. Gerhardson sa.id the grading will most likely be performed through another vendor. He asked that the plan determination be made first befare any further decision making. Gerhardson noted the history of the company far this particular equipment is excellent. The Commission discussed the building on the praperty. It had been determined that the cost for razing the building would run $6,500. The building has been used in the past for starage by the City but is no longer used as such. The neighbors would like some type of shelter. The money for razing the building will not have any affect on what equipment is installed according to Gerhardson and the Park Commissioners. The building itself is of primary concern due to safety issues. It was noted that children have been climbing on top of the roof of the building. The issue of saving any portion of the building was discussed. Gerhardson noted it would have to be further evaluated before any determination could be rnade. The cost of keeping a portion of the building, meeting code and whether it is tied together structurally will be factors. The possibility of adding a new simple structure is also a possibility. Gerhardson said Staff will look into this issue. Beal suggested Staff determine casts of rehabilitation of the barn structure or a portion of it. Wilson noted that the cost of rehabilitation would most likely exceed the amount of money the park fund would have to make the necessary repairs. Beal moved, McDermott seconded, to direct Staffto evaluate the barn structure and determine a cost analysis for a usable structure on the park property of about 1/3 the size of the current barn. 5 MINUTES QF THE REGULAR C1RON0 PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 6, 1997 (#3 - Aatoine Park Update - Continued) Gappa said he inspected the barn and felt the cracks were probably indicative of foundation problems. He felt it would most likely be cost effective to install a type of simple roof with posts. Gerhardson also noted that the majority of the costs involved with the tear down are due to disposaL White is concerned with the loss of privacy for the neighhoring homes once the structure is removed. �ote: Ayes 5, Nays 0. The Commission discussed whether the old equipment would be incorporated into the layout. Gerhards�n said the swings are in good condition and could be used. The igloo and slide would have to be removed. The cost difference runs about $200 between using the swings or removing them. It was determ'tned that by using the old swings there would be 8 swings instead of 6. All agreed after discussion to allow the old swings to remain. Beal moved, White secanded, to approve Plan A layout and to direct Staffto determine the amount of savings that would be incurred by use of the neighbors for installation of the equipment_ It was noted that the cost of pea rock, grading, structure demolition, and equipment installation is nat part of the $23,000 figure far equipment. Gerhardson noted City crews could provide the pea rock to include the rock itself and installation. The funding will be paid from the Park Dedication Fund. Site preparation work will be determined once the plan has been finalized. Discussian was had regarding the use of the Park Dedication Fund and the needs amongst the parks. It was noted that the Navarre park and Hackberry are in need of equipment updating. Wilson asked Gerhardson for a total cost figure. Gerhardson said he would meet with the supplier, detennine the area for grading, and review the handicap access costs. Vote: Ayes 5, Nays 0. 6 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMIvIISSION MEETING HELD ON 3ANUARY 6, 1997 (#4} FINALjZATION OF PLANS FC)R PRESENTATION OF FRIEt�TDS OF THE PARK AWARD TO BE �I�LD PItIQR TO TH� FEBAU_ARY 3RD PARK COMMISSt(}N MEETING. RECIPIENTS WILL BE JASON CHRISTENSON AND SAGA HILL PRESERVATION SOCIETY The award ceremony scheduled for February 3rd will be held at 7:00 p.m. prior to the Park Commission Meeting. The Mayor and Cauncil Members will be invited. Gerhardson will discuss the invitations with Moorse, who will send out the invitations. Gerhardson wi11 also check with Lili McMillan regarding the award itself. Wilson and Ilse will provide for the drinks and treats. Beal will be in charge of pictures and press release. White called the home of Jason Christenson. His parents will return the call to White to insure his presence at the presentation. Wilson will check with Saga Hill group. Once it has been determined that the award recipients are available, Gappa will send a formal letter to the recipients from Moorse regarding the presentation ceremony. (#5) PLANNING FOR JOHN GERHARDSON RETIREMENT DINNER WITH PAST AND PRESENT PARK COMMISSION MEMBERS It was determined that the dinner should be held on January 3] to allow for past and present Commissioners to be notified. Wilson will confirm the date with Flint, determine the location and send out notices. (#2) REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF PARK STUDY BY CITY INTERN MICHAEL SCHULTZ A letter from Schultz was noted regarding his inability to attend the meeting. The comments on each park will be consolidated by MeDermott and given to Schultz for final draft. Wilson asked each Commissioner to review their list of parks and return the comments to McDermott by January 24. The parks were divided up as follows: Antoine -Beai Bederwood - Ilse Casco {a113) - White Crystal Bay - Wilson Cygnet - Wilson Dickey - Ilse French Creek -Wilson Hackberry -Flint Highwood - Wilson Carlson Ballfields - Gerhardson Livingston - McDermott Lowry - Wilson Lydiard- McDerrnott Navarre - McDermott Orono Golf Caurse - Gerhardson Saga Hill - Wilson Sandy Beach - NfcDermott Summit - Flint 7 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON JANIIARY 6, l 997 (#2 - P�rk Pian - Continued) McDermott noted Cygnet was said to be a conservation area. It will be changed to reflect the more undeveloped nature of the property. Gerhardson asked that the notation of being isolated on a cul-de-sac be eliminated as this is not true. 4n page 12, Dickey property, the wording of"no digging" will be changed to "limited". (#6) PARK MASTER PLAN FOLLOW-UP: A. PARK AND OPEN SPACE IDENTIFICATION (WILSON, CHAIR) Wilson and �hite reported on this area at the last Park Commission meeting and will review further at the February meeting. B. LONG TERM FUNDING (WHITE, CHAIR) No report was given. C. COMMUNITY PLAY FIELDS AND HIGHER ACTIVITY PARK AREAS {ILSE, CHA IR) llse said she was in the process of making contact with the City of Mound regarding facilities. She has not determined who should be contacted regarding softball needs. D. TREE PLANTINGS AND NATURAL BUFFER ZONES (BEAL, CHA1R) Beal said he had spoken with of�icials in Wayzata regarding their tree preservation policy. He was unsure where to go from here. Wilson made several suggestions regarding programs affecting right-of-ways, buffering, and development requirements. Gerhardson suggested Beal discuss the issue with Maorse as the City is currently reviewing this subject. V�ilson reported the Council has asked the Park Commission to study the subject. The issue was discussed at the December meeting of the Council. (#7) FOLClW-UP ON HIGHWAY 12 RECOMMENDATIONS NOW THAT THE CORRIDOR HAS BEEN SELECTED (SEE SEPT MINUTES) Gerhardson commented that the Park Commission might need to see the detailed plans for the corridor before any further determinations could be made. White noted the different concerns of the corridor with it running through the City of Long Lake. He felt this issue should be stated as the road will not be going thraugh open space only citing the Penn Avenue area of Interstate 394. White passeti out an article regarding urban sprawl destruction. s MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 6, 199� (#7 - Hwy 12 Recommendations - Continued) Wilson asked White to make specific recommendatians regarding the carridor to be discussed at the February meeting. Park Commissioners were asked to give any suggestions to White. McUermott reported that Mn/DOT will hold monthly meetings stage by stage and invite interested parties and affected cities. He said the schedule and designs will be explained to include an analysis of the land and wild life. (#8) REPORT ON ACTION BY CITY COUNCIL WITH RESPECT TO TRAILS ON JOHN O'SULLIVAN PROJECT IN CONNECTION WITH NAVARRE LANE VACATION McDermott related the events leading up to the decision by the Council regarding trails on the O'Sullivart project property. llse, Flint, and McDermott were at that Council meeting. A meeting had taken place on site with developer, City personnel and several Park Commission members regarding the trail placement. From those discussions, a recommendation was made which O'Sullivan agreed to that included a staircase erected along Navarre Lane and bike access on the northern section between Olive Avenue and CoRd 19. McDermott reported Gaffron had recommended at the Council meeting a pedestrian egress via a ramp but would support the staircase. The Council concluded that there would be no access along Navarre Lane and approved the pathway on the north side only with no additional trail on Olive Avenue. This conclusion is the same as what was originalty groposed by O'Sullivan. (#9) UPDATE ON WINTER PARK OPERATION - ORONO GOLF COURSE; ICE RINKS Gerhardson reported that the golf course cluhhouse was open during the week of Christmas vacation daily from 12 noon to 4:00 p.m. The Park Commissioners said they were unaware that this was to occur. Gerhardson reported that about 10 people used the club house each day. The current schedule incIudes opening the club house on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4:00 p,m. and wili run through at least January. Gerhardson will give a copy of the schedule to the Park Commissioners. McDermott asked that the schedule and availability of the club house and ice rinks be placed in the local newspaper. Gappa will fallow up on this request. The ice rinks are flooded and in use. The snawy canditions have been a concern. It was noted that there is a hole in the ice in the middle of the rink at Hackberry. Gerhardson said they are eontinuing to work on improving the ice conditions. 9 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR tJRONO PARK COMIvIISSION MEETING HELD ON JANt1ARY 6, 199? (#10) �THER BUSINESS McDermott asked to discuss several other issues. He asked what has happened with the trails that were to be completed on the Dickey-Thoroughbred Subdivision. Gerhardson said he would make inquiries, and Gappa will report at the February meeting. McDermott said he feels the City should receive either Park Dedication fees or see the trails installed. McDermott noted that the Planning Commission will be reviewing an application for building expansion of Rick's Super Valu at their January meeting. The application calls for a varianee to expand the building to the street side. McDerniott noted that in past applications, the store owner had suggested na landscaping cauld be installed as lost parking w�uld incur. He asked the Commissioners to review this application and feels that if such an expansion is allowed, the vegetarion should be required to be restared. McDermott also noted the Planning Commission will be discussing a right-of-way vacation noted as Pleasant View on Lake Minnetonka, west of the east line of Island Point on Big Island. He would like to see the Park Commission consulted if there is such a park land located there. Gappa wi11 check into this matter. Beal asked that the Park Commission packet be sent out earlier to enabte a more thorough review by the Commissioners prior to the meetings. Wilson asked Gappa to see what can be done regartiing this time frame. ADJQURNMENT Ilse moved, Beal seconded, to adjourn at 9:42 �a.m. Vote: Ayes 4, Nays 0. , r--� � �� �� ^ , � ��.� -� . L.�.ir,��� Susan Wilson, Acting Chair lo