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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-03-1999 Park Commission Minutes CITY OF ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MONDAY, MAY 3, 1999 ATTENDANCE The Park Commission met on the above mentioned date with the following members present: Chair Andrew McDermott, Commissioners Irene Silber, Jim White, and Sherokee Ilse. Commissioner Susan Wilson arrived at 7:38 p.m., and Commissioner Van Douglas Erickson arrived at 8:12 p.m. Representing Staff were Public Services Director Greg Gappa and Recorder Jackie Young. Chair McDermott called the meeting to order at 7:25 p.m. (#2) APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF APRIL 5, 1999 Corrections were made on Pages 2 and 3. White moved, Silber seconded,to approve the Minutes of the Parks, Open Space and Trails Commission meeting of April 5, 1999, as amended. VOTE: Ayes 4, Nays 0. MEETING REPORTS (#3) APRIL CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS McDermott stated he attended the April 12 City Council meeting and reported that the City Council and Planning Commission had decided not to require a vegetative buffer or easement for the new development along Brown Road. McDermott suggested that the City Council be approached to see if they are still interested in the vegetative buffer concept that was proposed a few years ago or whether that concept should not be considered in the future. McDermott stated that Wilson was going to address the Planning Commission as well on this issue. McDermott commented that this development was approved without the vegetative buffer. Richard Flint, City Council Representative, stated he was unaware that this concept had been discussed previously. McDermott stated this item was discussed in a joint workshop along with the possibility of a tree ordinance, which was not approved. McDermott suggested that perhaps a workshop would be in order with the City Councit to discuss this item further, noting that this is a planning issue and should be addressed by the City Council and Planning Commission. McDermott remarked that the vegetative buffer would be an ideal way to help maintain the rural character of Orono and that pefiaps this item could be included in the comprehensive plan. Flint recommended that this item be discussed further and indicated a willingness to discuss this with the City Council, Planning Commission, and Parks Commission. McDermott stated that Wilson, Silber, and himself attended the April 26 City Council meeting which included the Adopt a Park Reception. McDermott commented that the people in attendance were appreciative of the reception in their honor. Page 1 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 3, 1999 April City Council Meetings, Continued McDermott suggested that perhaps a split rail fence could be substituted for the current fence at the Navarre Park, noting that people were in favor of a fence at that location. McDermott remarked that the trail along Old Crystal Bay was discussed, and that it was indicated to the City Council that the Parks Commission would like to see that trail extended down to Noerenberg Garden eventually. McDermott inquired whether any improvements should be done to the trail in the French Creek Division, noting that the trail is overgrown. McDermott commented to his understanding that trail was mowed at one time. Ilse remarked that the City should maintain that trail. Gappa stated that the City should have an easement for that trail and that perhaps the trail could be marked again. Ilse suggested that someone from the Parks Commission go with Gappa to help identify the trait. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS/UPDATES 5. Seven Nations Natural Area A. Archaeological Study. Gappa suggested that the firm that may do the archaeological study be provided with the concept plan for this park to see if an archaeological study is necessary. White commented that before and after pictures of the parks be taken to document what improvements have been made to the various local parks. McDermott stated he would be willing to take pictures of the Navarre Park. B. Staking/Layout for Subcommittee Approval and Construction Schedule. Gappa stated that Bonestroo is working on a grading plan for the Seven Nations Natural Area. Gappa noted that he has not received any new information regarding the NSP power poles. McDermott commented that the City Council did approve the financing for the proposed improvements to this park, noting to his understanding only the budget for the first year has been approved. Flint stated that the City Council approved expenditure of$30,000 for this park with the request that the Parks Commission reduce the amount of money proposed to be spent on trees and plantings. Flint remarked that the City Council probably will not be too receptive to approving much more money for this parfc. Gappa remarked that if an archaeological study is not needed for this park, that money could be utilized for something else. Gappa stated that the City Council recommended reducing the amount of money that was proposed to be spent on trees. Page 2 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 3, 1999 Seven Nations Natural Area Siiber recommended that regular watering of the trees and plantings be done. Gappa stated that water would need to be trucked in to water the trees. White suggested that the Parks Commission look at bare root trees to help keep the costs down. Wilson commented that the neighbors need to be kept informed of what is going on at the park. Flint stated that an overall parks plan should be developed to show the new residents how all the residents of the City have helped to finance the improvements to the parks over the years. C. Property Line Marking. Gappa had nothing new to report on this item. 6. Saga Hill -Grant Proposal Silber stated that it was her understanding that the Fairview Covenant Church had requested that their land not be condemned during Holy Week, and the City had given them until the end of April for the closing to be completed. Gappa stated he is not aware if the closing has been completed at this time. Silber stated once the land is condemned, then the Parks Commission should have a survey completed and then decide where the road should be constructed. McDermott remarked that the City is planning to do a mail survey to the residents in the area asking for their input on what they would like to see in this park. McDermott stated that the DNR also has grant money available for parks, such as a matching grant that could be designated for a management plan for the natural area, which consists of approximately 20 acres. The DNR also has conservation partnership grant programs, natural scenic area grants, outdoor recreation grants, and regional trail grants, which the City should consider applying for. Silber commented that the treatment of buckthorn could be included in the management plan. McDermott stated the City Council should be informed that the Parks Commission would like to apply for a DNR grant. Silber stated that they have received a $5000 donation for Saga Hill, with the possibility of one other donation being received. Silber commented that she would rather not disclose the name of the donor to prevent that person from being inundated with other requests for donations. 7. March for Parks -May 2, 1999 Ilse extended her thanks to the various Park members City Council members and residents in the area who helped support this event this year, noting that$750.00 was raised for the local parks. Page 3 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 3, 1999 March for Parks, Continued Wilson commented that the Parks Commission should discuss whether this event should continue to be held in the future given the poor turnout, noting that more time and effort should be given to promoting this event if the City wants to make this event a success. Ilse stated that she approached her church and school in an effort to promote this event, but that support from more people in the City is needed to help make the event a success. Ilse commented that full support from the Parks Commission would also help make the March for Parks a success. Ilse noted that prizes were awarded to the top pledge earners in the various categories. Ilse remarked that this event did receive some good publicity in the local papers and City newsletter. Silber extended her thanks to Ilse for all her efforts on this event. McDermott noted that Long Lake had withdrawn from this event, which hurt the pa�ticipation, and that perhaps the Parks Commission will need to discuss in the future whether this event should continue to be held. Ilse noted that Mound is very interested in participating in this event again. STATUS REPORTS 8. Dakota Rail to Trail -Trail Class with the DNR McDermott stated he attended a class sponsored by the DNR, which was very informative and provided some good resources for funding. McDermott commented that there was good interest in the Dakota Rail to Trail expressed and that Rick Meyers is very interested in working on this project. Flint stated they are looking at whether a grant might be available to buy the Dakota Rail, but at this time they are not certain that the rail is for sale. Flint stated this trail is in Hennepin County's long-range plan. Flint stated the Dakota Rail is presently being purchased on a contract for deed by a corporation called Rail America, Inc., who also owns other smaller railroads throughout Minnesota. Flint indicated he will be attending a meeting tomorrow moming with Doug Bryant to discuss the grant. Silber inquired whether the Rails to Trails Coalition could provide any funds or technical support for this project. McDermott stated they have information available on how grants can be obtained and will give an update on this project at the next meeting. 9. Spring Hill -Site Meeting Results McDermott stated that Gappa, Flint, and himself reviewed the trails at Spring Hill this week, noting that some of the trails have been roughed in but that the trails are not presently open to the public. McDermott indicated that he did question whether the fence could be moved, and was told that this item would need to be discussed with the Board. Page 4 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 3, 1999 Spring Hill, Continued McDermott commented that extension of the trail to the other side of County Road 6 was also discussed, noting that they will attempt to work with Hennepin County on whether the trail could be constructed along the high side of the ditch. Otherwise the trail could be located inside the fence on the Spring Hill property. A trail has been roughed in along Tamarack to the maintenance driveway. McDermott remarked that in his opinion a minimal amount of effort on the part of the contractor is being put into the trails. Flint commented that he was in agreement with McDermott. Silber inquired when the trails would be open to the general public. McDermott stated he was told the trails would be ready by June. Gaffron stated if the trail is extended across County Road 6, there are safety issues that will need to be addressed. Wilson commented that a decision will need to be made on what should be done in that area as far as the trails. McDermott remarked that Hennepin County will need to be contacted to get their position on whether the trail can be constructed on the other side of County Road 6. Silber inquired whether horses would be permitted on the trail. Gappa remarked that if horses are permitted, it makes for more maintenance. 10. Comprehensive Plan Meeting McDermott stated that the City has requested that a minimum of two Park Commissioners staff a table to answer park related questions at the comprehensive meeting scheduled for May 6 and May 20. Gaffron stated that the parks plan comprises a small portion of the overall comprehensive plan, noting that he has never reviewed a parks plan that the Parks Commission has developed. McDermott remarked that Gappa should have a copy in his file of the plan. Gappa stated that he has an inventory in his possession but was unsure of an overall parks plan. Wilson commented that the plan was developed before Greg was with the City. Wilson recommended that a copy of the bike trail plan also be available at the meeting. McDermott noted that the City Council did revise and approve the bike trail plan. Erickson stated that he will provide a copy of the park plan to Gaffron. Gaffron stated these are public information meetings regarding the comprehensive plan. Page 5 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 3, 1999 Comprehensive Plan Meeting, Continued McDermott requested that a copy of the park plan, bike trail map, and inventory be supplied to Gaffron before the meeting. Ilse suggested that the brochures for the March of Parks also be distributed at this meeting. Silber indicated she could attend the May 6 meeting at the Orono High School. Erickson and McDermott indicated they would attend the May 20 meeting at the Fresh Water Institute. Gaffron remarked that this is one opportunity for the public to give input on what they would like to see amended or included in the City's Comprehensive Plan. Flint indicated that he will recommend to the City Council that the parks plan, bike trail map, and inventory be included in the comprehensive plan. 11. French Creek -Planting Proposal Gappa stated that City Staff has already taken care of the maintenance items for French Creek. Wilson commented that a couple of Tnimpeter swans were spotted in the park. Wilson stated that the trails have been burned and hopefully will be seeded soon. Gappa remarked that a fax has been sent to Prairie Restoration giving them the okay to go ahead with the planting. 12. PARK TOUR -JUNE 7, 5:00 p.m. McDermott stated the park tour is scheduled for June 7, 1999, at 5:00 p.m., noting that Spring Hill is on the list of parks to be toured. Ilse suggested that French Creek be toured as well. White recommended that the Navarre Park also be toured. Flint commented that they should also tour Saga Hill. Wilson stated that Crystal Bay Park should be toured and a decision made regarding the skating rink. Silber remarked that a decision should also be made on whether a half court basketball area be constructed at Bederwood. Wilson questioned whether Bederwood would be the best location for the court, and suggested that the other parks be reviewed to see if there would be a better location. McDermott commented that Bederwood might be the only park where a basketball court would fit, noting that there has not been any interest expressed for one at Antoine Park. White remarked that Casco Point might be a good location for a basketball court. Page 6 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 3, 1999 Park Tour, Continued Ilse commented that a neighbor and some children in the area have expressed a desire for a basketball court in the Bederwood area and would be willing to make a donation towards that proje�t. Gappa indicated that approximately$5,000 was spent on the basketball court at Crystal Bay. Ilse moved,White seconded,to consider the possibility of constructing a half-court basketball court at Bederwood as previously discussed. NO VOTE TAKEN. Wilson stated that the other parics should be reviewed before a decision is made on Bederwood. Ilse commented that there has not been interest in a basketball court expressed for any of the other parks. Ilse stated that it was mentioned that the funds received from the March for Parks could go towards a basketball court. McDermott remarked that there is potential for a half-court basketball court at Casco Point, noting that the Navarre Par1c would not have enough room to accommodate a court. White noted that the City is pursuing its options to acquire additional park land in the Navarre area. Wilson suggested that this item be placed on the next agenda for discussion. Ilse commented that this item has been discussed previously. McDermott stated that this item could be placed on the next agenda to allow the members of the Parks Commission to review the other parks to determine where the best location would be. Ilse withdrew her motion. White moved, Silber seconded,to table the half-court basketball project until the June 7th Parks Commission meeting. VOTE: Ayes 6, Nays 0. McDermott noted that Spring Hill, French Creek, Navarre Park, Crystal Bay and Bederwood are on the list of parks to be toured June 7th. Ilse commented that Bederwood Park is in very poor condition and that a decision will need to be made in the near future on what should be done in that area. McDermott stated that the City is experiencing problems with people dumping garbage in the dumpsters at Bederwood. Gappa stated that City crew has hauled garbage out of that area and that a sign is posted on the dumpsters requesting that people do not deposit their garbage from home in the dumpsters. McDermott encouraged all members of the Parks Commission to attend the tour of the parks on June 7th. Page 7 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 3, 1999 NEW BUSINESS 13. Townline Road -2 Lot Subdivision White moved, Ilse seconded,to recommend that a parkland dedication fee be collected on the Townline Road -2 Lot Subdivision. VOTE: Ayes 6, Nays 0. OTHER ISSUES Attendance Silber suggested that the Parks Commission develop a policy which would state that if any park commission member misses three consecutive meetings that a letter be sent to that member to see if they are still interested in serving on the Parks Commission. Silber moved,White seconded,to recommend to the City Council that a policy regarding attendance at the Parks Commission meetings be developed whereby a letter is sent to any member that misses three consecutive meetings inquiring whether they are still interested in serving on the Commission. VOTE: Ayes 6, Nays 0. Flint commented that in his view that would be a good idea. McDermott commented that the chair person could also contact the person. Flint stated that it would be good practice to establish a policy regarding attendance. McDermott requested that this item be discussed at the next City Council meeting. May Council Meetings May 10 -White May 24 -Erickson Docks Located in Wetlands Ilse stated that she has received some calls expressing concern that some wetlands are being filled in at the base of Stubbs Bay Road, noting that there is no dock presently. Gappa stated the dock will be installed in the near future. Gappa remarked that a survey should be done to see if there is a better approach for the deck. McDermott inquired whether more sections of the deck could be added. Gappa stated the survey would outline the boundaries of the wetland. Gappa remarked that he will look into the situation. Eisinger Property Erickson inquired what the status of the Eisinger property was. Page 8 ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 3, 1999 Eisinger Property, Continued McDermott stated that a meeting was held a long time ago with the City wherein the City was informed that Eisinger wanted to explore other possibilities for this property. McDermott commented that the City will be looking at other parcels of property that may become available with the Highway 12 project. Erickson suggested that the property across from the Dog House be considered for possible park land. Gappa stated that area is currently zoned two acre residential. Erickson suggested that this item be set on the July agenda. Flint noted that one of the positive aspects about the Eisinger property was that it was to be acquired free or virtually free, and that the City does not have a lot of funds available to acquire additional park land. Flint remarked that the area along the new Highway 12 corridor may become more commercial in the future. ADJOURNMENT � �,� �. , , jou M"ting�rt�7 p.m. Ilse moved White seconded to ad , \ , 11-1�._ �� �_�--�. � � ` `-� -Ar�ltrew McDermott, Chairperson Page 9