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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-03-1997 Park Commission Minutes ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 3, 1997 ATTENDANCE The Park Commission met on the above mentioned date with the following members present: Chair Susan Wilson, Commissioners Andrew McDermott, James White, David Beal, Van Erickson, and Peter Welles. Sherokee Ilse was absent. Council Member Flint was present. Representing Staff were Public Service Director Greg Gappa, and Recorder Sherry Frost. Chair Wilson called the meeting to order at 7:24 p.m. (Note: The agenda does not follow in numbered order. The items were reviewed as follows: 1, 3, 7, 4, 2, 6, 9, 10, 5, 11, 8.) (#1) APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF OCTOBER 6, 1997 Elizabeth Van Zomeren was removed from the roll on page 1. Page 2, second from last paragraph, the word, "anyways", was removed from first sentence. Page 5, 9th paragraph, first sentence, was changed to read, "White suggested the City could make use of the proposal through a tax increment financing project...". Under 4A, 3rd sentence and following: Wayzata has no parking commission but does have...Beal noted that the City of Eagan has developers challenging impact fees on road levies, but this is... Under 4E, the Eden Prairie commission is called "Parks Recreation and Natural Areas Division. Under public comments, page 11, Beal questioned whether snowmobiles have the right... Beal moved, Welles seconded, to approve the Minutes of the Park Commission Meeting of November 3, 1997 as amended. Vote: Ayes 5,Nays 0. (#3) PARK DEDICATION FEES REPORT -WILSON, MCDERMOTT Wilson reported that McDermott and she met with Staff and City Attorney and reviewed park dedication and the result of the Fullerton Subdivision park dedication. Jabbour said the City will need to complete this for its inclusion in the Comprehensive Plan, which will be updated in 1998. The Comprehensive Plan has not been changed as of yet. 1 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#3 - Park Dedication Fees Report - Continued) Beal was informed that park dedication is part of the subdivision ordinance but the Comprehensive Plan must include a plan that justifies what the funding is used for. This change will be reflected by all cities as ruled by the court system. Beal indicated that $20,000,000 has been collected in Eagan by road impact fees and are being questioned by developers. Gappa indicated that all fees are being questioned nationwide. McDermott noted the City does not have such a plan currently for parks and open space, but Wilson indicated that much of the work has been done toward this plan. Wilson showed the progression on what is occurring regarding such plans. Wilson said there were only two challenges currently in the court system in the country but it would behoove the City to develop a plan and move forward. The City is temporarily maintaining a fee limit. Flint said there are cases where the City must show a nexus between what the developer is doing and the impact on park and open spaces. A direct benefit would be shown where a park is located within a subdivision, but when that is not so, there needs to be shown a benefiting relationship between the subdivision and parks. Wilson noted open space can be shown as a benefit for all of the residents as it is a community asset. Trails connecting the Luce Line have similar benefit. Flint questioned why new development should pay for it and not the entire community. McDermott said parks have always been paid for in this manner. Flint said in the future the benefit to the subdivision needs to be specifically addressed. Flint said the plan must include the need for funds for a specific park plan. Wilson said park dedication has not been specific to a park improvement in the past. Gappa cited an example where a subdivision would show a percentage of additional use at a park and park dedication is prorated from the projected cost for a park for the additional use. Welles speculated that the reasoning behind the Fullerton challenge was that the cost of projected park dedication was more than the cost to litigate it. Wilson said this is a reason why the open space plan is being developed and needs to be completed as soon as possible. McDermott noted that the project of determining open space and what should be acquired is a major undertaking. Wilson asked if there was a possibility of hiring a professional consultant to aid in this plan. Gappa said the entire Comprehensive Plan must be updated in 1998 and since parks are a part of that plan, it is logical to get advice regarding open space and parks. (Van Erickson arrived at this time.) 2 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (October 6, 1997 Park Commission Minutes - Continued) Wilson questioned whether the Council should be shown the information currently collected or whether to wait until more background information is obtained. McDermott suggested presenting what is available will aid in gaining the assistance of a consultant. Flint asked Gappa whether money has been set aside in the budget for long term planning and whether it can be used at this time. Gappa said money is available for this use and included in the 1998 Budget. Gappa explained that the Comprehensive Plan update must be completed in 1998 for presentation to the Met Council, who will then review it. McDermott said there is a rough plan for open space at this time. More fine tuning will be required for neighborhood parks. He questioned whether the need for a community park should be included. Flint said he thought the Mayor would like follow-up from the report done on open space by Mike Gaffron. He suggested that information be reviewed and recommendations made to CounciL Wilson said parcels have been identified. Flint suggested they should then be prioritized. Wilson said the information does not include demographics but does include the Commission's knowledge of the community. (#7) OPEN SPACE PLANNING - WILSON, MCDERMOTT, WELLES A draft was distributed and reviewed by McDermott. The memo addressed to Council contains the criteria and justification to identify, evaluate, and acquire or secure undeveloped land for additional public use space. It includes the mission statement, problem statement, and specific goals and objectives in reaching those goals for open space, parks, and trails. McDermott noted there is no plan as of yet for the future as noted under the problem statement. McDermott indicated parcels five acres or more will be identified and evaluated as suggested in information from Gaffron. Wilson felt information was available on 10 acre parcels and should then be used. Flint said the survey should be referenced in open space but did note that it was shown to be a citizen priority in the problem statement. Under parks, it was noted that the planning groups have been assessing and evaluating the existing parks. The residence that is encompassed by Hackberry Park was identified as a critical land area that should be acquired as parkland in the future. The last bulleted comment under trails was changed. The City is to identify where they should build the trail far each planned corridor. It was indicated that the side of the street where the trail would lay is to be included in the identification. 3 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#7 - Open Space Planning - Continued) Welles asked Flint if the Commission was on the right track with this document; and if so, then the spaces would be identified that meet the criteria with ranking, prioritization, and reasoning behind why the open space was chosen. Flint suggested the Council be advised on all facets of the review on an on-going basis. Wilson suggested a work session with Council for feedback prior to a public meeting. Beal questioned whether land cost and the financial benefit needs to be shown. Wilson said there were other long term funding options that could be developed realizing the Commission will look at parcels that are desirable for acquisition but may never be acquired. White asked that a decision should be balanced on what should be open space and what should be parks. Wilson referenced the 1994 citizen survey where open space was determined to be the top priority of the residents. Erickson questioned whether open space was still the top priority noting the high number of young families entering the community. He suggested an additional survey be conducted to determine this. Erickson reported that the sports programs are more than full and may indicate the need for other recreational development. Wilson questioned whether the demographics show significant changes in the City. Flint said a non-scientific survey had been conducted several years prior to the 1994 scientific survey and resulted in the same outcome. He felt there may be a need for an athletic field as suggested recently but does believe the survey is correct. Erickson acknowledged the importance of open space and trails but indicated additional recreational needs are being required citing the facilities currently available. Wilson noted Erickson is within the recreational group of people and will hear that need from them. She feels the survey reflects a cross section of people. McDermott said the number of homes with children were noted but there was shown a low need for more play areas. He believes the survey should be conducted within the next 10 years. Erickson noted the Commission is looking at long term planning and believes the population will change and continue to do so, and asked that this be considered. McDermott suggested the school demographics should be cross-referenced. Welles said he concurred with Erickson regarding the influx of younger families. He questioned whether the average age in Orono has dropped. 4 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#7 - Open Space Planning - Continued) Wilson agreed that the information on demographics should be obtained. Gappa said the school district could be contacted. Wilson cautioned that the Commission should not build up the parks and then find they are not needed in the future due to a change in demographics. Erickson volunteered to research the demographics. Erickson acknowledged his recreational affiliation but said he balances it with trails, open space and other needs. Flint said the Council wanted a person with his background on the Commission. Flint said he had mixed feelings regarding how to proceed. He said the additional comments made at the meeting should be reflected in the memo and Jabbour's opinion could be sought as to what next step should be taken, ar the draft can be taken to the Council. Flint questioned whether a community playfield is necessary. Wilson said that determination has not been made. McDermott acknowledged that there is a question whether a city of this size requires a community playfield. Wilson said the space for such a playfield has been located but is not convinced the City needs it. Beal questioned whether that has to be determined at this time. McDermott said it will be required soon noting he is aware of the need for a park in the northeast portion of the City as well. Flint suggested the Commission speak with the Mayor first in order to keep the Council advised of the current status. He questioned whether the land itself has to be identified at this time too. Wilson said the sub-committee will meet again before meeting with Jabbour. She indicated all members were welcome to attend the sub-committee meeting. Flint suggested the possibility of discussing the topic under public comments at the Council meeting. (#4) LONG TERM FUNDING FOR PARKS - WHITE, ILSE White distributed a handout regarding possible revenue sources for parks. He reviewed each of the eight fund sources listed and added several more. White noted the list was not in order of priority. Funding source #1 on the list was park dedication fees, which is the standard source of funding. Funding source #2 was property taxes. White said larger cities often use this method through tax levies. 5 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#4 - Long Term Funding for Parks - Continued) Funding source #3 was bonding by the municipality. Examples of picnic shelters, community centers, and pools were cited. Commissioners agreed that the City would most likely not be interested in a community center or pool. Cities using this method will typically charge admission fees to repay the bonds. Funding source #4 was fees to use parks through parking permits and user fees. Commissioners felt there were no such facilities where this would occur. Funding source #5 was fund raising within the business community for specific projects and #6 was fund raising within the community for specific projects. An example of the County raising funds in this manner was noted. The fund amount raised is typically specific for a specific goal. Funding raising can also be of donations of materials as well as money. Funding source #7 regarded conservation subdivision arrangements within PUD's, whereby, the developer will obtain special zoning and permit arrangements in return for leaving 50% or more of the development public open space. This method can utilize community septic system and avoid sewer hookup. This method results in creating open space by leaving part of the development open. A development of this type is currently under way in the City of Victoria. Welles noted that the key to this method is the end result of the same density level. Funding source #8 was developers build the parks and deed them to the city in exchange for development approvals. McDermott questioned how many acres a development should be to justify a park. White can a park can be provided within a development as part of the approval. Commissioners felt the Dickey Subdivision would have been a good site for this to have occurred. It was felt that more leverage should be obtained from development which is currently not happening. White reported that he receives alot of ideas over the internet system. McDermott suggested the idea of leasing park land for such uses as antennas or park bench advertisement. White cited examples of this occurring in the City of Minneapolis. It was noted, however, that there are many differing opinions regarding this topic, and Commissioners questioned whether this was feasible in Orono. The ice arena was thought to be a possibility for this type of funding source. Welles suggested maintaining this option as a funding source as there may be such a facility in the City in the future. White added several more sources for funding. Funding source #9 related to a joint powers agreements such as between the City and School District, trail development, or with Mn/DOT in Hwy 12. 6 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#4 - Long Term Funding for Parks - Continued) Funding source #10 was the use of grants, such as the grant obtained through the DNR for Saga Hill. Funding source #11 was the creation of revenue through creation of facilities by other organizations. The example of the proposed amphitheater in Scott County by the Minnesota Orchestra was noted. Wilson asked for comments on these funding sources. It was noted that the park dedication will be obsolete as land for development no longer exists. Welles suggested prioritizing the funding sources, determining what type of funding the community would likely consider, and focus in on that with further research. Welles said he was in support of#7, conservation subdivision, but not of#3, bonds. Beal suggested determining how much open space is desired for acquisition and what that cost would be in determining what source should be considered. Wilson suggested the list include other private and non-profit organizations. McDermott asked if such a list was available. White noted the list was limited. The Minnesota Land Trust, the DNR, and Nature Conservancy, who only gets involved with large tracts of land, were listed. Welles indicated that leveraging was only spoken of in terms of open space and not in identifying parcels for neighborhood parks. He felt joint powers agreements was a possibility for a neighborhood park. McDermott noted that sources#5 and#6 were similar to that used by the Orono Ice Arena. Preservation of existing land was noted. Flint said the City wants to protect the lot sizes of 2 acre and 5 acre parcels. He cited Saga Hill as a PUD. Welles noted the aesthetic quality of 2 acre parcels and the argument of sewering as it relates to the MUSA restrictions. He asked what is the consideration behind these lot sizes. Flint said it was for aesthetic reasons but the City works with other agencies. He cited the storm water management plan being developed where runoff limitations will be established aiding in protecting larger lots. Flint said the fear is that PUD's will open the flood gates for development. Welles noted that PUD's allow the density levels to still remain the same. Flint said there are areas which should be developed and still maintain the 2 acre zoning. 7 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#4 - Long Term Funding for Parks - Continued) Beal asked Flint about tree preservation policy. He was informed that the Planning Commission is reviewing the issue. Flint noted the Planning Commission is considering two meetings a month, where one meeting would be for planning issues and the other for subdivisions. The list was reviewed for its possibilities. Sources #1 and#2 will remain. #3 was questioned regarding where it would be used. Wilson indicated a separate bond referendum could occur for land protection. Source #4 was thought to be questionable as there were no areas where fees could be charged at this time. Sources #5 and#6 were combined to be "funding raising for specific projects". Source #7 was considered a good possibility for creating open space. Wilson thought that conservation developers should be contacted for information on their strategies. McDermott suggested reviewing it with the Planning Commission first. Welles said he would research whether there were developers interested in conservation subdivisions. He also indicated he has available publications which might be useful. Source #8 will remain on the list as well. The use of public financing was noted. Welles suggested a joint agreement between the schools and the parks. Wilson asked about tax increment financing as a possibility. She asked White to discuss this option at the December meeting. Beal asked Gappa about affordable housing. Gappa said the City is part of the Livable Housing Act. Beal asked whether this is impacted by the amount of land available. Gappa said the City would probably be thinking in terms of rehabilitation of housing in the Navarre area and maintaining what is there. He noted the difficulty in finding properties that would sell far less than $130,000, which is the affordable limit. Welles felt the development of a community map of open space would be a good tool for developers to use, for Council's use, and for strategizing for the future. He felt the Commission needs specific strategy for funding each site and determining the needs for the sites. McDermott suggested determining areas for neighborhood parks as well. Wilson indicated the use of conservation easements is an option for some properties to protect open space. (#2A) REPORT FROM OCTOBER 13, 1997 COUNCIL MEETING - WHITE White reported that he informed the Council the Commission was reviewing long term funding sources. He indicated Mayor Jabbour asked the Commission to not get too far ahead. Wilson said the Mayor would like to see the Commission keep the Council informed of their activities. 8 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#2B) REPORT FROM OCTOBER 27, 1997 COUNCIL MEETING -WILSON Wilson reported that the Council informed her the Park Commission's recommendation for public use of free ice skating time at the Orono Ice Arena was turned down. Gappa said the minutes of the Council meeting referencing that topic was included in the packet information. McDermott noted there was the issue of supporting a particular sport. Erickson said the problem with maintaining outdoor rinks was also discussed. Erickson said the Council noted the availability of free ice time at the Pond Ice Rink. Erickson felt the idea of goodwill was not projected to the Council. Gappa said the issue was discussed in the Mayor/Council Report but no formal motion was taken. Wilson suggested that Council members be called ahead of time in the future to discuss matters of importance. Wilson reported that the Council asked the Commission to continue their review of open space. Wilson reported the Council discussed the Stubbs Bay Public Access issue. The Council was informed by City Attorney Barrett that the public use of the Olsen property over at least a six year period results in the property becoming public property. Wilson said the City will continue to work with Olsen. The Council said they were concerned with vacating what is a public access. WINTER SPORTS (#6A) SKATING RINKS Wilson questioned whether the recommendations recently made by the Commission should remain the same with the Council's opposition to the use of ice time at the arena. Gappa said he received one call from a neighbor of Hackberry Park, who suggested the rink be maintained. Gappa said he informed him it was a matter of water problems. Wilson questioned whether a letter should be sent to the neighborhoods (Hackberry and Bederwood) affected by the rink closures, explaining the reasoning behind the closures (poor ice quality), and see if any response is received. Erickson reported that Holbrook rink has had problems with ice quality as well. Wilson said she believes if a ice rink is provided, it must be properly maintained and of good quality. She felt if a good rink was provided, it would be used. McDermott felt that was possible at Casco. Lighting would have to be added. Wilson reiterated the need to send the letters to the neighborhoods. The rinks will remain closed if no response is received. She would like to continue looking at the opportunity of providing a good outdoor facility for ice skating in Orono. 9 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#6A - Skating Rinks - Continued) Welles said he would like to see an ice rink developed at the golf course where sledding is occurring and the warming house available. This would allow for several uses at the same time. Gappa said a new well is being installed for the sprinkler system. Parking is said to be close to the pond where the ice rink could be developed. Wilson asked Gappa to review the matter with Staff and golf course manager, along with analyzing the parking situation, for consideration for next year. Gappa said the new building on the property has a porch, which could have an overhang extended, for assisting skaters. Welles asked if Gappa has spoken with City Administratar Moorse regarding the use of the golf course for an ice rink. Gappa said Moorse thought the pond might be too small. Welles noted a problem with cross country ski trails on the golf course and the need to flag them. He felt the use of the golf course could result in a winter sports complex with skiing, skating, and sledding. Beal suggested all the Commissioners view the site. Wilson said a day will be scheduled in January for the Commission to meet at the golf course. Welles said he would speak with the golf course manager regarding the possibility of an ice rink. Gappa indicated electricity is available and additional lighting could be installed if necessary. (#6B) GOLF COURSE Gappa reported that the winter time use of the golf course was satisfactory last year. It was open for sledding and club house use on Saturday and Sundays from noon to 4:00 p.m. Gappa informed McDermott he would review the revenues taken in last year. Gappa said Moorse felt it was worth maintaining again this year. Gappa will determine what food and drink will be available for sale this year. Wilson asked Gappa to report on this issue in December and place an advertisement in the newspaper regarding the winter time use of the golf course. Welles suggested the possibility of providing occasional bonfires at the golf course. McDermott suggested the City of Wayzata be questioned on how they conduct their bonfires. Gappa said a permit can be obtained for recreational fires. It was noted that it would be difficult to monitor this activity with the attendant being both indoors and outdoors. Wilson thought this use could incur problems. Erickson suggested providing a bonfire over Christmas break. Welles suggested it occur on the full moon period over Christmas break. Commissioners agreed with this concept. Gappa was asked to obtain approval prior to the December meeting. 10 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#9) HENNEPIN COUNTY PARKS REPORT - GAPPA Gappa reported that Moorse met with Doug Bryant of Hennepin Parks. Hennepin Parks will build the remaining portion of the trail next year. The trail will become part of the regional trail and maintained to the Luce Line. The plans will be rebid. (#10) NAVARRE HOUSING STUDY/PARK USE Gappa referred to the survey conducted on housing in Navarre. The survey was conducted to gain a handle on housing trends. McDermott asked Gappa if he would correlate the areas with the age groups of the residents. Gappa reported that the respondents that lived closest to the park felt the park was not in good condition. These residents showed a higher use. McDermott noted the park is limited in its amenities. Gappa acknowledged the poor location as far as access and relationship to busy roadways. Wilson felt a better park should be provided for the Navarre residents. It was determined that the space is too small, the location poor, and terrain is such that it would not benefit to put more money into it. Gappa indicated that Fagerness Point is nearby for use. Wilson suggested the possibility of purchasing some lots to provide a park. McDermott noted there is marginal housing in area II that would be a possibility but would still be located near the County roadway. Wilson said the study can be used as part of the future analysis of Navarre. REVIEW OF INDIVIDUAL PARKS (#SA) SUMMIT BEACH -WILSON, MCDERMOTT Wilson provided a list of inexpensive maintenance needs at Summit Beach. The approach to the park is unattractive, and Wilson suggested the posts be removed, the park sign be placed on the left side of the entrance where it can be seen, and portable toilets relocated to improve the entrance appeal and the view of the park. tl MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#SA - Summit Beach- Continued) McDermott suggested developing new beach rule signs as they are in poor condition. Gappa indicated the brown metal signs would be the best solution. The rules will be kept to a minimum for best clarity, and the location of signs will be chosen to compliment aesthetics as well as visibility. Concern for liability was noted about the existing rope swing. It was suggested that the dumpster be removed. Beal asked about fishing from the dock near the swimming area. McDermott said the DNR would possibly supply a fishing pier that would alleviate this problem. Wilson thought the area near the canoe launch would be a good location for a fishing pier. The possibility of a volleyball court was discussed. The park provides ample room for this use. It could be of grass . All agreed that this would be a good option for next summer. (#SB) FRENCH CREEK- WILSON Wilson reported that a path was mowed. There are some dead trees by the sign that need to be removed. Wilson asked Gappa to consider burning the prairie in April. She indicated the sign needs to be updated as well. (#SC) HIGHWOOD TRAIL - ILSE Wilson said there were many trees down. Gappa said he will continue having the trees cleared out. It was indicated that the trails have changed, and there was the possibility that the boardwalk would not be required. Welles noted that Ilse had suggested a cooperative effort with the Lake Minnetonka Environmental School for developing the trails. This is to occur after the tree removal is complete. Beal suggested contacting firewood people who might be interested in the wood. Erickson said he could provide some names. Wilson said there was alot of brush piles and suggested a wood chipper be brought in. McDermott said some brush should be left for the rabbits and some chips could be used for trails. Welles noted the need for community groups to aid in providing stewardship of the parks. He was informed that the community has been asked for assistance and has assisted in the past, but Park Commissioners need to keep working on this. 12 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#5D) CRYSTAL BAY Gappa said the new grass is currently dormant. Welles asked if there was the possibility of using the park for soccer. Gappa asked that the grass be allowed a full season to develop before soccer is considered. There was concern with the field being close to the road but a net could be provided. The field is adequate in size for soccer use by younger children. (#SE) DICKEY Erickson said he walked the property with McDermott. McDermott said the concrete is still there as well as the private garage which encroaches the public park. Gappa said the City has a letter of credit regarding this issue. Gappa will review the problem with the encroachment. Erickson said he would speak with the neighbors to determine what they would like to see done with the park property. The Commission discussed what occurred at the Council meeting regarding the proposed internal trails in the subdivision. The possibility of a parking space was also noted. McDermott noted the problem with sight lines. McDermott said he would like to see property provided to enable people to get from the bike trail to the park. A picnic table has been placed in the park. Wilson asked that the Commissioners continue to review their parks and make a list of what maintenance is needed. She noted that capital improvement ideas will be a part of the plan for the next 20 year period. McDermott said a separate list of maintenance issues should be kept for the near future needs. The park assignments are as follows: Antoine - Beal Casco Pt Beach, Ice Rink - White Crystal Bay - Wilson Dickey - Erickson French Creek - Wilson Hackberry - Erickson Highwood - Welles Lee Carlson Ballfields - Erickson Lowry Woods - Wilson Livingston Tower- McDermott Lydiard Beach - McDermott Navarre - McDermott Saga Hill - Welles Orono Golf Course - Welles Sandy Beach - Erickson Summit Beach- Welles Highway 12 Park Corridor - Erickson 13 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#SE - Dickey - Continued) The sub-committees are as follows: Open Space - Ilse, McDermott, Welles, Wilson Bike Trail - Erickson, Welles, Wilson Long Term Funding - White, Ilse Tree Preservation - Beal, Ilse, Wilson Community Liaison (Orono Schools) - Ilse (#11) NEW BUSINESS Wilson reviewed the representation at the upcoming Council meetings and asked that the Commissioners stay for the entire meeting. (#8) BIKE TRAIL MAPS AND DISCUSSION Wilson provided bike trail maps. She asked that the Commissioners review the maps and determine whether the trails as noted should remain as designated trails, and if so, on what side of the road the trail should be located. She asked that any deletions or additions be indicated. The trails should also be consistent with the trails of the adjoining communities. A change in the trail along Tamarack was noted to coincide with the Medina trail. McDermott asked about a trail for the Dakota Rail. Wilson said she spoke with Peter Johnson who asked far a park inventory. Johnson is trying to generate interest in pursuing this trail along the Dakota Rail. He is attempting to prove that the trail would connect up with alot of parks. It was noted that few trains run on the tracks. McDermott said he would fax a copy of the park inventory to Johnson. Gappa noted that the rail ownership has changed several times. McDermott said he asked Council members how they felt about a trail along the Dakota Rail. He was informed that they were not interested in pursuing this. Wilson suggested the information be kept on file. Beal suggested the bike trails be driven. Commissioners all agreed to do so. Erickson suggested the other communities be contacted regarding how their trails connect with the city. Wilson agreed that the communities should first be contacted and analysis performed by each Commissioner. Wilson questioned why the trail stopped on CoRd 6 at Spring Hill and was not shown to Ferndale. 14 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#8 - Bike Trail Maps and Discussion- Continued) Wilson asked that the analysis include where a bike route might occur. She indicated there may be locations where signs only are placed instead of widening shoulders. Fox Street was cited as an example. McDermott suggested the City Engineer aid in determining what side of the road a trail should be located on. Wilson said that can occur as part of stage two. The differing theories of wide shoulder and separated trails was discussed. Wilson noted that if trails lead to another public facility, Hennepin Parks will aid in paying for the trail. She would like to see a trail extend down CoRd 6. Erickson said he would only like to see the shoulder widened. McDermott said he is concerned with safety for children. Erickson will contact the Cities of Minnetrista and Mound. Wilson will contact Medina and Long Lake. Welles will contact Wayzata and Excelsior. ADJOURNMENT Wilson adjourned the meeting at 10:35 p.m. Q,� - Su n Wilson, Chair 15