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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-02-1998 Park Commission Minutes ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 1998 ATTENDANCE The Park Commission met on the above mentioned date with the following members present: Chair Andrew McDermott, Commissioners Peter Welles, Irene Silber, and Sherokee Ilse. Commissioners Susan Wilson, Jim White, and Van Douglas Erickson were absent. Representing Staff were Public Services Director Greg Gappa and Recorder Jackie Young. Chair McDermott called the meeting to order at 7:20 p.m. (#2) APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MAY 4, 1998 Corrections were made on Pages 5 and 6. Silber moved, Welles seconded,to approve the Minutes of the Parks, Open Space and Trails Commission meeting of October 5, 1998, as amended. VOTE: Ayes 4, Nays 0. MEETING REPORTS (#3) OCTOBER CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS White attended the October 12, 1998 City Council meeting, but was absent from tonighYs meeting. McDermott attended the October 26, 1998 City Council meeting, and reported that the Eisinger property was discussed with the City Council being informed that there is another party is interested in purchasing the property. The City Council stated there are possible zoning issues that would need to be dealt with before the Dog House could operate on that site should the owner of that business purchase the property. McDermott commented that the final plans for Highway 12 and 6 have not been finalized and the full impact on the Fulmer property is unknown at this time. Gappa remarked that the plans for Highway 12 do call for the road to go through the Fulmer property. McDermott stated private citizens as well as the City have the option of pursuing the property, noting the Mayor would like to have a 100 year lease on the property if possible. The City Council would like the Parks Commission to proceed with developing a concept plan and an estimate for this property. (#4) ORONO AREA ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION McDermott stated that the Orono Area Athletic Association will be holding a meeting on November 12, 1998, and each member has been requested to bring a list of their parks and the facilities located in the parks to enable the association to evaluate the future needs of the community. McDermott commented that the school will also be holding meetings to discuss what athletic facilities they would like to propose. Page 1 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 1998 (#5) PUBLIC COMMENTS There were no public comments. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS (#7) WATERTOWN/DICKEY PARK a. Design update - Preliminary/concept plan from Shardlow Gappa stated Shardlow has prepared three preliminary plans for review by the Parks Commission. Jennifer Germain, Landscape Architect, and Wally Case, Landscape Architect, were present at tonight's meeting to give an update on the preliminary plans for Watertown/Dickey Park. Case stated they were able to meet at the site and review the various options available. The archeological significance of the site was also discussed and further research into the history of the site is being conducted. Case commented that Germain did the site analysis and will be presenting the concept plans for the Parks Commission's review. Germain addressed the Parks Commission concerning Concept Plan #1 for this park, noting they are proposing two alternatives for vehicular access into the park, an upper and a lower access point, with the lower access point being more favorable due to better site lines. Germain commented the topography varies from flat areas to hilly areas, with most areas having an open view to the residential area. The cul-de-sac area will have a screened view. There is also a shed that exists on the neighboring property that poses an eyesore. Ilse inquired whether that shed was legal. McDermott stated the shed has been reduced in size due to the encroachment on the park area. McDermott inquired whether Germain was aware that this area used to be lakeshore for Lake Minnetonka. Germain stated she had that understanding, and it is listed with the Historical Society as a Level 2, with Level 1 being the highest ranking. Germain stated there are drainage issues that need to be considered when the trail to the cul-de-sac is discussed. Case stated the area does have historical significance which will need to be addressed once the final plans are decided upon, noting that they are attempting to avoid excavation of the site as much as possible. Ilse noted this area was once called Seven Flags, which stands for Seven Tribes of Seven Nations. Ilse stated she will continue to do research on a possible name for the site. Silber commented that there was an incident that had occurred at a stable nearby where possibly some benevolent spirits where present and aided the young child that was injured, which has given some people in the area the opinion that this is sacred land. Ilse remarked they had thought about calling it Sacred Land, but would like to give some consideration to the name Seven Flags. Ilse noted that if a Native American name is used it has to be sanctioned by the tribe associated with this site. Page 2 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 1998 (Watertown/Dickey Park, continued) Germain reviewed Concept Plan#2 regarding Watertown/Dickey Park, noting some clearing of the site will be required with this plan. McDermott noted that there had been some discussion about having a wide enough access to accommodate buses at the site due to the lack of shoulders along the roadway to the park. McDermott commented this plan will accommodate a bus better than Concept Plan #1. Case stated this access is proposing basically a one-way system and puts the access into the park close to the existing street. Germain remarked they are considering planting of prairie grasses and some oak trees to give it more of a Savannah type setting. Welles commented he likes this plan from a maintenance standpoint because there is a natural firebreak going around the shelter. Germain stated they are contemplating a 15 foot wide path of either bituminous surfacing or crushed rock to make the connection to the Thoroughbred Road cul-de-sac and existing Crystal Bay Road trail with a picnic area at the high point to capture the views of the area. Case commented that both surfaces could be utilized for the trails. Germain commented they have proposed putting a gathering point or story point consisting of stones in a circular area in this concept plan along with a marker describing the historical significance of the site. Welles and Ilse stated they liked the idea of the gathering or story point. Ilse inquired whether fires will be permitted in the park. Gappa stated fires are allowed by permit, but the Parks Commission might not want to encourage fires in the park. Case noted some park systems do not allow open fires, but if fires are permitted at the park, Case recommended providing a controlled area where people can have fires. McDermott commented that even without the fire ring, Concept Plan #2 is a nice plan. Germain stated the Parks Commission have the option of erecting a prefab or custom type shelter, and suggested field stone which would give it more of a historical character. Case commented the Parks Commission needs to determine how durable they would like the shelter to be, noting that prefab shelters range from $10,000 to $15,000. Welles commented he was not sure if the prefab shelter was cost effective. McDermott stated the shelter could be constructed without a roof to allow sunlight in and could also act as a buffer to the elements. Case stated a custom designed shelter could range from $30,000 to $40,000, noting a shelter could be designed based upon the budget for this park. Ilse inquired whether the Parks Commission thought this plan made the park too secluded with all Page 3 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 1998 (Watertown/Dickey Park, continued) the trees. Case noted that all the trees depicted in the concept plan are not actually there. Case suggested the Parks Commission approach the neighbor with the shed to discuss whether the shed could be removed. If not a fence is constructed, shrubs should be planted to screen it. Ilse noted the people currently living in the residence are renters. Ilse inquired how far from the property line the fence should be constructed. McDermott stated the fence can be erected along the property line, and suggested that some screening be provided in front of the shed. Welles remarked he will meet with the owner of the adjoining property and talk about possibly removing the shed. Germain reviewed Concept Plan#3, noting this plan calls for the introduction of some elements that are reflective of the history of the site such as an earth sculpture at the top of the hill and a story ring. Ilse commented she likes this plan but thought the park would not need the earth sculpture. Ilse inquired whether the lower parking lot could be looped to accommodate a bus. Case stated possibly a hammerhead turn-around could be constructed, but a school bus would have some difficulty turning around. McDermott commented the trail going to the cul-de-sac will need to be more of a straight line to follow the easement. Germain stated they were not sure where the exact easement was. McDermott stated the easement is either eight or ten feet wide. Case inquired whether that information could be obtained. Gappa noted it is contained on the plat for the subdivision. Germain commented the CAD file showed the easement differently than the plat. Case stated the easement will need to be verified. Welles suggested they work with City Staff to determine the exact location of the easement. Germain reviewed Concept Plan #4, noting this plan calls for the trails to wind down the grassy hill to the connecting trail. Case suggested that perhaps the parking lot could be located more towards the shed. Silber commented she liked the more natural trails, but there still is a concern about access for a bus into the park. Welles stated he has safety concerns about the narrow trails and having a number of children Page 4 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 1998 (Watertown/Dickey Park, continued) riding on the trails and the trails becoming wider through use. Welles suggested that perhaps the story circle and shelter could be flip-flopped, noting that parking can be added later. Welles commented that the prairie grass area would work better without the trails. Silber noted the path was needed to gain access to the story circle. Ilse inquired whether the trails cut into the hill too much. Germain stated they have done some grading on the trails. Case remarked they will attempt to keep the trails under five percent grade, and suggested providing various rest areas along the trails. McDermott stated the Parks Commission should decide upon one or two plans to develop further and then present the final plan to the City Council. Silber stated a budget will need to be arrived at. Welles inquired what parking arrangement Gappa preferred. Gappa stated he prefers the parking in the lower left part of the park which would work better with the site lines. Case stated they will also need to verify the exact location of the property lines and that access for buses will need to be addressed further. Welles inquired why access for buses needs to be provided. McDermott commented he has been informed that some classes are interested in visiting this site, and noted that currently there is no shoulder area along the roadway for cars or buses to park. Gappa commented that people might like the parking area close to the picnic area. McDermott remarked the Parks Commission will need to finalize the concept plan and develop a budget for this park. Ilse recommended a rustic look for the benches along the pathways. Gappa suggested holding a neighborhood meeting before the concept plan goes before the City Council. McDermott noted this park will benefit a large number of people. Case stated the better accessibility to the park, the more people likely to utilize the park. McDermott stated he is agreeable to holding a neighborhood meeting, and inquired whether the plan could be finalized before the next Parks Commission meeting. Case indicated the plans could be finalized by the next meeting. Gappa stated he will send out a mailing along with a copy of the concept plan to the neighboring residents. Gappa remarked he will verify the location of the easement and provide that information to Shardlow. Page 5 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 1998 7b. Native American Park Name Proposals. Ilse stated they are still discussing possible names for the park and will present some ideas at tomorrow's meeting. 6. SAGA HILL 6c. What property is for sale in Saga Hill? Gappa handed out information concerning the property located at the end of Garden Lane that is for sale for$95,000. Silber noted the Solner-Webb property was another property that the City was attempting to purchase, noting this is not a high priority. 6b. Hennessey Property. Silber stated she has nothing to report regarding the Hennessey property. 6d. Plan for Public Planning Meeting in January or February with Facilitator. McDermott stated the City has received a letter from Fairview Covenant Church regarding the access to Saga Hill, noting the Church is willing to negotiate on the land. McDermott suggested the Parks Commission consider holding a meeting in January or February in front of a facilitator to discuss the possible plans for Saga Hill. Silber recommended having a definite concept plan prepared for the meeting to avoid having to deal with abstract ideas. Welles commented that having a definite concept plan would focus the meeting on what is being proposed. Ilse suggested that more than one plan be prepared. McDermott stated the Shorewood hearing that was held in front of a facilitator had no definite concept plan but gave the residents an opportunity to discuss what they would like for a park. Silber suggested that a t-ball field and playground area be incorporated into the concept plan for Saga Hill, which most of the residents would not oppose. Gappa commented that the residents could comment on the general concept plan and make recommendations for what they would like to see added or changed. McDermott inquired whether Shardlow should develop a concept plan for Saga Hill before the public meeting. Gappa remarked that a plan should be developed prior to the meeting. Silber stated the plan should be presented to the City Council before the public hearing. Page 6 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 1998 �Public Pianning Meeting, continued) McDermott stated the final plans for Dickey Park will be ready for the December meeting and what the Parks Commission would like for Saga Hill can be discussed at that time. McDermott noted that the Parks Commission will need to know what decision Fairview Covenant Church has arrived at before a final concept plan can be developed. Gappa commented he will speak with Ron Moorse about the matter to see if a meeting can be held with the Fairview Covenant Church. McDermott noted that Mayor Jabbour and Council Member Flint have met with the Church on prior occasions. 8. Tree PreservationNegetative Buffers McDermott stated that Wilson is attempting to meet with the Planning Commission on the proposed tree preservation ordinance. 9. Spring Hill Trails 9a. Review roughed in trails. McDermott reported that the meeting that was scheduled with the contractor has been cancelled. Gappa indicated he was having a hard time getting a meeting date scheduled. Welles commented that Wilson had talked to someone associated with the contractor who stated that they were attempting to wait until the spring before the trails are roughed in with an anticipated open date in May or June. Welles noted that the trails might be delayed further once play on the golf course begins. Silber suggested Gappa inform the contractor that some members of the Parks Commission will be on the site at such and such a time to spray paint the trails. Welles stated due to the lateness of the season, the trails might not be completed before it snows. Gappa noted there is a letter of credit on the whole development, a portion of which could be retained if the trails are not completed. Ilse agreed that the Parks Commission should just go ahead and stake the trails so the contractor can commence work on the trails. Welles inquired how much the letter of credit on this project was. Gappa stated there was a $200,000 letter of credit remaining, which is more than enough to get the trails built. Silber suggested sending a letter to the contractor requesting them to be present at a specific date and time when some of the members of the Parks Commission will be at the site to stake the trails. Silber remarked that we should get the City Council's support on this issue. Page 7 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 1998 (Spring Hill Trails, continued) Welles stated he will talk with Wilson and Mayor Jabbour and get a couple of dates when they could visit the site, noting that time is of the essence to get these trails in before the winter weather sets in. Silber stated the trails meeting should be completed before the next Parks Commission meeting. McDermott suggested that Gappa, Welles, and Wilson go to the site before the next meeting to stake the trails. Welles suggested documenting the marking of the trails as well. Welles stated that City Council Member Flint should be contacted as well as he has been involved in this project. Gappa stated a surveyor could assist in the process, but noted that is a timely process. Welles stated all correspondence with the contractor regarding work on the trails be kept. Gappa suggested scheduling a date for next week sometime, and he will notify the contractor of the date and time when the members of the Parks Commission will be at the park. STATUS REPORTS: 10. AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS Gappa stated the photographs have not been delivered to his knowledge. 11. HIGHWAY 12, LONG LAKE AND HOLBROOK PARK Gappa stated the preliminary layout for Highway 12 has been completed and will be presented to the various cities for their review. Gappa stated Orono has no major issues with the proposed layout but noted that Long Lake has some concerns that they would like to see addressed. There is a 120 day period that the cities are allowed to review the preliminary plan. 12. ALL COMMISSIONERS -ANY MAINTENANCE ITEMS/ISSUES AT YOUR ASSIGNED PARKS Gappa stated the contractors are not cooperating in the cleanup of Casco Circle, noting that the City has cleared the downed trees. Gappa stated he will talk to the Police Department about the cars being left at the park. Gappa commented the rock pile at the park will probably be removed by the person responsible for depositing them at that site. Silber stated she has not had an opportunity to check to see if the graffitti has been cleaned up at Highwood Park. Ilse stated where the skating rink was located at Bederwood Park should probably be reseeded, noting that what is presently there is not very good. Gappa commented that he could have some dormant grass seed thrown on the site. McDermott inquired what the status of the short court basketball is. Page 8 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 1998 (Commissioner Reports -Maintenance Issues, continued) Gappa stated the court has been paved and the posts and baskets are on order. Ilse commented the court looks nice, and inquired when the posts and baskets will be in. Gappa stated they should be delivered soon. 13. Community Play Field/Central Park (Eisinger Property Landfill) McDermott inquired how the Parks Commission wished to proceed on this project. Gappa commented that City Council White had drafted a memorandum to Ron Moorse suggesting that the property be valued, along with a list of appraisers. Gappa stated those three appraisers should be contacted to get some proposals on what the costs will be for an appraisal so that information can be presented to the City Council for their approval. Once the City Council approves getting an appraisal done, Gappa suggested the property owner be contacted requesting permission for the appraisal to be completed. McDermott inquired when this information can be presented to the City Council. Gappa stated he could have the information ready by the December City Council meeting. Gappa remarked that the wells on the property have been inspected and are found to be okay. Gappa stated there is only a small amount of garbage that has been deposited at this site, noting that there is approximately 15 feet of clean fill on top. McDermott inquired whether Shardlow should be contacted to develop a concept plan for this piece of property. Ilse suggested waiting for the appraisal before a concept plan is developed to avoid incurring a lot of costs in case another party purchases the property. Silber noted that only three ballfields will fit on this site with the soccer field overlapping. McDermott inquired what should be presented to the City Council to get their approval on purchase of this piece of property. Gappa stated that a definite appraisal should be completed. It was the concensus of the Parks Commission that an appraisal be completed on the Eisinger property. Gappa stated the assessed value on this property is listed at $53,000. McDermott stated the information should be presented to the City Council at their December meeting. Gappa stated the appraisal will need to be approved by the City Council, which hopefully can be done at their November 23rd meeting. Welles inquired about the dimensions of the fields. Page 9 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 2, 1998 (Community Play Field/Central Park, continued) Gappa stated the dimensions range from 350 feet for the high school fields to 100 feet for the Pinto fields, with Babe Ruth being 300 feet. McDermott commented that 300 feet meets most of the field requirements, noting Gappa's sketch calls for 80 parking spaces. McDermott stated if the City Council is fine with Gappa's sketch, then it is okay with him. ADJOURNMENT l ��� i7 ,�/ Welles moved, Ilse seconded,to �,djc}�1 � „ee �_g at 9;03 p:�. ��: , - � _ ..�_-----� �; C�lfidrew M bermo , irperson Page 10