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Home My WebLink About08-05-2025 - Agenda Packet Park Commission - Regular MeetingAgenda Parks Commission Meeting Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers 12780 Kelley Parkway, Orono, MN 55356 952-249-4600 /oronomn.gov Call to Order Pledge of Allegiance Approval of Agenda Approval of Minutes May 6th 2025 Park Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Public Comment (limit 3 minutes per person) For items not on the agenda. To add a comment, approach the podium, state your name and address. Comments are limited to three (3) minutes. No action will be taken. Presentations Staff Report Park Standards Assessment Update Hackberry Park Update Antione Park Update Additional Park Commission Work Session Tree Lightning Form an additional Parks Sub -Committee to help with Tree Lighting planning and fundraising. Chair Report Commissioner Reports Adjournment Sign up for email notifications at oronomn.gov AGENDA ITEM Date: August 5, 2025 Title: May 6th 2025 Park Commission Regular Meeting Minutes Presenter: Joe Ruthenberg, Superintendent - Parks, Facilities Section: Approval of Minutes Purpose: Approve the Parks Commission Minutes 2. Park Commission Action Requested: Approve the Parks Commission Regular Minutes from the May 6th 2025. Exhibits 05.06.2025 Park Commission Minutes.pdf Item: K Minutes Park Commission Regular Meeting Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers 2780 Kelley Parkway, Orono, MN 55356 Chair Roath called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. He welcomed the new members of the Park Commission. ROLL CALL The Orono Park Commission members present: Chair Brian Roath, Commissioners Janie Delaney, Kim Carswell, Michael Huddy, Mollie Reynolds, Jacob Selseth, and Gordy Stofer. Also present: City Council Park liaison Alisa Benson. Staff present: Park Superintendent Joe Ruthenberg APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA Carswell moved, Selseth seconded, to approve the agenda for the Park Commission meeting as submitted. VOTE: Ayes 7, Nays 0. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. February 24, 2025 Park Commission meeting minutes Huddy moved, Stofer seconded, to approve the minutes of the February 4, 2025 Park Commission meeting as submitted. VOTE: Ayes 7, Nays 0. PUBLIC COMMENT None PRESENTATION 2. Tree Inventory Analysis and Maintenance Strategy Park Superintendent Ruthenberg outlined the tree inventory of the City's trees and the benefits of having such an inventory of tree health going forward. Park Commissioners asked questions about the inventory and how it will be used. Ruthenberg also gave an update on staff activities gearing up for summer including at parks and the Orono Golf Course, an Eagle Scout project that will benefit Lurton Dog Park and the status of the dock at Big Island. STAFF REPORT Mayor's Monarch Pledge Ruthenberg and Councilmember Alisa Benson explained the Mayor's Monarch Pledge Program for which the City has applied. It will involve communications to residents on ways to support the Monarch Butterly population by planting milkweed and other plants that support Monarchs; engaging with gardening groups, and educating City staff on thoughtful mowing practices and use of chemicals. Page 1 of 2 3 Minutes Park Commission Regular Meeting Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers 2780 Kelley Parkway, Orono, MN 55356 CHAIR AND COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS 4. Park Commissioner Assignments Roath led the Commissioners in a discussion of assignments for Commissioners, dividing up about 25 park spaces for members of the Park Commission to visit regularly and report any needs. Urgent needs should be reported directly to City Staff while larger, non -urgent items should be reported to the chair for future budget consideration. The Commission discussed the focus document for 2025 along with the seven focus areas that were established last year after the Commission's goalsetting session and possibly making adjustments or adding a couple of more focus areas. The focus areas have sub committees of the Park Commission. Roath moved, Huddy seconded, to add developing a trail along North Arm Drive as a subcommittee focus area. VOTE: Ayes 7, Nays 0. Roath moved, Reynolds seconded, to add a guiding document subcommittee as a focus area. VOTE: Ayes 7, Nays 0. Roath moved, Carswell seconded to add a focus group subcommittee on the Mayor's Monarch Pledge. VOTE: Ayes, 7, Nays 0. Roath moved, Carswell seconded to move the North Arm Trail under the Trails Subcommittee. VOTE: Ayes, 7, Nays 0. New Commissioners shared their interests and priorities. Commissioners discussed the Park Commission meeting schedule which consists of four formal and six work sessions each year. Continuing Commissioners welcomed the new members. ADJOURNMENT Roath moved, Selseth seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 8:26 p.m. to August 5, 2025. VOTE: Ayes 7, Nays 0. ATTEST: Brian Roath, Chair Page 2 of 2 4 AGENDA ITEM Date: August 5, 2025 Title: Park Standards Assessment Update Presenter: Joe Ruthenberg, Superintendent - Parks, Facilities Section: Staff Report Item: Purpose: To review the park standard assessments and discuss improvements, priorities and scope of park projects for the next year and for the future. 2. Funding: Funding would be through the general fund and the CIP. 3. Park Commission Action Requested: To make recommendations for improvements at the parks and the which are the highest of priorities. Exhibits Park Standard Improvement Assessments.pptx Park Standard Improvement Assessments Orono Parks Commission Small Park Projects and Improvements • Dead trees 8t branch trimming at most parks. (Increase in parks' operating budget for tree removal and replanting.) • Planting new trees to replace removed trees. • Mulch replacement at Bederwood and French Creek bench areas, refresh at other parks that have a wood playground base. • Bederwood, Hackberry, Navarre, and Casco Beach need updated bike racks. • Need to replace park hours signs at almost every park, for consistent branding, accurate hours, and possible QR code enhancements. • A park history station could be added at Seven Nations Park. • Addition of additional pollinator gardens at some of the parks and other city sites. • Addition of dedicated landscaping for new park signs. There were many small maintenance improvements that were targeted for the parks some addressed already and some scheduled to be completed. The lake access points sub -committee is also currently evaluating those sites for improvements and standards and will present a plan once completed. Improvements in this area are also ongoing with city staff. Larger Projects and Improvements • Bederwood Playground border/edging needs to be replaced, wood or upgraded to concrete. • Old wood picnic tables are aging and need to eventually be replaced. Some people have varying opinions on metal -coated picnic tables, but some are showing wear, and a replacement plan should be in place. • Added benches were a need at some of the parks, including Hackberry, Saga Hill, and replacements were needed at Bederwood and Seven Nations. • Painting, or replacement of gates at various lake access points. • Grading improvements at parking areas. • Repair fence footing damaged from snow and ice heaving at Bederwood. • Add irrigation to the baseball field. (Funds to come from Orono Baseball. • Bederwood Playground is still usable but reaching the end of its equipment life. (Replacement was budgeted for the 2026 CIP.) • Replacement of Stubbs Bay Dock. • Add dock ramp to the Casco Point Beach dock. • Permanent recycling and trash cans at parks and beaches. ■ l Possible Future Park Additions • Develop open spaces at Crystal Bay Park, close proximity to Dakota Trail could lend it to greater use with bikers and walkers, natural playground, picnic shelter or other amenity. • 7 Nations Park natural field could be better cultivated for pollinators and natural flowers. • 7 Nations redesigned parking area and entrances current West entrance muddy and unusable most of the year. ■ I Trash Cans and Recycling Bier at the Parks Ft Beaches Parks would need to purchase approximately 27 trash cans or recycling bins, considering the size and usage of the parks. The cost of purchasing new standalone trash cans can vary by type and model, ranging from $16,000 to $27,000. In contrast, purchasing combined trash and recycling bins would cost between $32,000 and $49,000, depending on the chosen type and model. Once permanent trash cans are installed at the park sites, staff will be responsible for emptying and disposing of trash and recycling. The impact on staff time will vary by season, and depending on park activity levels. Current estimates suggest that staff will need to spend about 4-6 hours per week on this task, although additional time may be required for upkeep and maintenance of the receptacles. Approximate equipment and labor costs per week would be $736, this would vary according to the season, available staff and time spent on the activity. The collected trash will be deposited and picked up at the Public Works building, which may incur some additional pickup fees. However, these costs could be offset by the existing trash collection fee currently being charged at the parks. Additional options for upgrading the parks current trash can appearance and use would be the use of a garbage shed or barrier like the one used at Bederwood Park. Cost for these sheds vary on size and material but would range in cost from $1000 - $1500, with some possible concrete slab additions if applicable. 16 additional sheds would be needed to complete this project. Drawbacks to this option are ease of use for residents, location requirements, and limited cover for the current trash cans. ■ I AGENDA ITEM Date: August 5, 2025 Title: Hackberry Park Update Presenter: Joe Ruthenberg, Superintendent - Parks, Facilities Section: Staff Report Purpose: To present an update on the plans & citizen feedback for Hackberry Park. 2. Background: Item: At the May 27th meeting, the City Council approved funding for the design phase of improvements at Hackberry Park. This design work builds upon the planning efforts completed in 2023 and represents the next step in a long-term vision to enhance this valued community asset. Hackberry Park has been a focus of city improvement efforts for over a decade. In 2016, the city entered into life estate agreement for the property at 140 Hackberry Hill —a residential parcel located in the center of the park. The city took full possession of the parcel in 2023 and completed demolition of the existing structures shortly thereafter. The current project scope includes critical drainage improvements for both the park and the surrounding neighborhood, long -overdue infrastructure repairs, reconfiguration of the playing fields, enhanced parking, and the addition of ADA-accessible paths and support facilities. Design plans are being refined through continued engagement with stakeholders and community members. These updated plans will support the City's efforts to pursue grant opportunities and secure funding for the construction phase. 3. Park Commission Action Requested: Give feedback to staff on the proposal that will be presented to City Council. Exhibits Hackberry Survey Feedback Results.docx Hackberry Park Survey Results (1).pptx iV Hackberry Survey Feedback Results Who took this survey: TOTAL RESPONSES COMPLETION RATE 0 TYPICAL TIME SPENT ® MOST-sI0PPE0 53 890/0 6m27s QUESTION Q12-Concept B: Additional feedback Skipped_39 Is this useful? Is this useful? 15 Is this useful? !ti ✓� Are you an Orono Resident? A-red:53 svlppee:O No Yes ANSWERCHOICES RESPONSES Yes 9&. % '1 No 3.77% TOTAL 53 How do you use the park? (Select all that apply) Answered:52 Skipped:1 Youth Sports Baseball or 26.92% Softball Youth Sports Football, 98.85% Soccer, and... The Playground and {or 69.23% Basketball... Sledding 48.00% Open field use {frisbee, 42.31% bocce, free... Relaxing (reading, 48.08% walking,... Other . 5.77% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 609% 70% 90°% SO% 100% 13 Concept A: What do you like about the design? Open -Ended Response • Not the one in like • Not much. • Zippo • Nothing • Nothing. It is way too overbuilt according to national park and recreation standards. • Simple and easy. Parking off of willow is great. • Seems the most balanced of the 3 options • Parking access on willow • Parking • parking isn't splitting it down the middle • Some parking • 1 like the parking • Parking. Lots of use of entire area. • Parking lot to keep parking off of Willow to avoid children or pets running in front of passing cars. Avoids cars backing out onto Willow. North ballfield location. • Parking entrance off Willow Easy access to all fields from parking Two ball fields and multi- purpose field Bathroom near playground • Parking lot is easy to get in and out of, maintain sledding hill, storm water pond with native plants! • Parking and keeping the play ground. I like that the sports fields maximize space but I think you could fit a youth soccer field that overlaps with the baseball field as they would be opposite seasons. • Two Baseball Fields is very important; the OBO 4-6 years has grown over 20% leaving only a few field options and sometimes going offsite to different neighbor city. This should not be the case. Parking lot is critical. Way to many close calls with young kids, dogs and older parents parking off willow and fast drivers. No one feels safe visiting for sports, etc. People are not always paying attention. Yes to the playground/baskball court. Although the hoop is not adjustable making it hard for anyone under the age of 10 to play. I even called the company - it's stationary. The tress to block the fields for shade. The bathroom designated area is essential and I like it removed from Willow WAY to many cars stopping by to use it and the trash. If it's tucked , maybe less of this. • Keeps both baseball fields • large fields • 1 like that you get a lot of the things you are looking for -park, baseball, soccer, sledding, parking • seems to maximize efficiency of various uses, parking doesn't consume plan like Concept C • Two ball fields is critical. Open mixed use field is good, but basically same size as current field. • Both baseball fields are oriented for the bleachers to be close to parking lot. Encouraging people to use parking lot more than the road. • 1 like the two baseball fields and the storm water pond addressing an area of drainage concern. • Keeps 2 baseball fields! 14 • Multiple baseball fields, central parking, bathroom by park. • Fans of baseball/softball will be away from Willow • 1 like that is has two ball fields and a multi -purpose field. • 1 like the 2 ball fields and the separation of the multi use field • Maximizing field space while maintaining the park and shelter area. • The stormwater pond location at the corner of Willow and Maple, the proximity of the hard fields (infield and basketball court) and playground to each other (easy to keep an eye on multiple children if one is playing ball and another is on the playground). • Plant idea. • Pollinators and the overall plan • 1 like that the restrooms, fountains and shelter are close to the playground, but are also easily accessible from the dugouts. • That the basketball court and playground remain the same and sidewalks will provide ADA access - that applies to each of the concepts. • I like that it leaves the sledding hill • Sledding hill and restroom location • Restrooms appear to be located where the house used to be • Pond and parking lot are nice features; its great to have sidewalks/walking paths going through the park Concept A: What do you dislike about the design? Open -Ended Response - IVUll 111 is • Nothing • Nothing • It's my favorite • Optimized for most activities • Smaller parking lot • Cars parking on the streets • parking looks too tight. • Parking spots in the middle of the lot, not much multi use field options. • Large paved parking area eats up a lot of grass area. Would require a lot of earth work/grading/retaining walls • Parking lot takes up valuable mixed use space • Parking on hackberry, maple, and elm • Parking area seems too small still • No on the parking stalls. Never get rid of green scape for hard scape. When we get rid of green we will never get it back. • Doesn't seem to have enough parking. • Parking lot driveways are too close together. Parking lot is on edge of outfield • Parking lot entry/exit is only on Willow • Parking looks limited and dysfunctional which could lead to cars parking on the street by the houses again. 15 • Parking lot looks like it may be tight to navigate during peak game times. • The way the fields are angled, the size and entrance of the parking lot. • The south ballfield has the balls hitting out towards Willow. Both the entrance and the exit to the parking lot are on Willow. Seems to be a smaller parking lot. • It would be nice to have another multi -use field. • Only one multi use field • Mixed use. Have dedicated space • Not enough field space. • Not maximizing space • Too busy • Way too "busy" of a design. Trying to pack too much into too little space. • Little busy • not enough trees • Balls hit towards Willow Parents will park on Hackberry in the "west" field as they park closest to a field of play vs a parking lot. Don't like an opened water. Need blanket room and "relax" area. • 1 don't like the baseball field situated that way, seems like foul balls could be an issue • Hitting balls toward a busy street and catch pond is not safe. Carving up the park like this for parking hardcover is wasting green space for citizens. This is not what the citizens asked for. • The ball fields backing up against each other • Very baseball/softball focus. Limited options for multi use fields • Stray balls close to parking on all sides. Limited multi use Cannot use multi and ball field at the same time • 1 don't love that the baseball field gets moved closer to the playground • Baseball field facing Willow will need an outfield fence high enough to stop balls from Willow traffic. • The baseball field next to Hackberry Hill will block the view of the park for some neighbors. The bleachers are not necessary. People use blankets and chairs to view activities, placing them where they choose. And the restrooms/shelter is too close to neighbors' homes and there is a concern about late night gatherings after hours (teens). It looks like the fencing for the south field will block some of the sledding hills too. • Nervous about how the gradient will need to change on the north half of the park for a flat baseball field • Storm water pond worries me as a parent- I don't want any body of water for my littles to fall into. Also, bugs are already bad at Hackberry....... Standing water would worsen that situation. • Storm run off. It's going to lead to lots of misquotes there. • Two baseball fields are essential. The OBO 4-6-year-old program has grown over 20%, and there are now very limited field options — sometimes even requiring games to be held in neighboring cities. That shouldn't be happening. The parking lot is critical. There have been way too many close calls involving young kids, dogs, and older parents parking along Willow, combined with fast drivers. It doesn't feel safe for families visiting for sports or events. People are often distracted or not paying attention. I fully support the playground and basketball court. However, the current hoop is not adjustable, which makes it tough for kids under 10 to use. I even contacted the company — it's a fixed, non -lowering hoop. Trees for shade around the fields are also a must — not just for comfort but for safety 16 during hot days. The bathroom designated area is essential and I like it removed from Willow WAY to many cars stopping by to use it and the trash. If it's tucked , maybe less of this. Concept A: Additional feedback Open -Ended Response • 1 prefer this concept • leave the mature trees. I did not like how many trees were cut down when they redid Bederwood Park. • 1 also like that there is a paved path from the parking lot to each of the key activity areas. • This is my second choice out of all the plans. • Upgrade the current playground that is there. Oronos playgrounds are just all subpar compared to surrounding cities • Please update the playground equipment. I love Plymouths many little neighbors playgrounds/parks and I wish Orono would enhance their overall park system to something closer to Plymouth. • Any upgrades to the playground? • Would LOVE to see additional benches near the existing playground. Currently it's just tables, benches would enhance for parents. • A picnic area needs to be by the playgrounds. Moms bring lunch and kids take a bite, play and comeback for more bites. Thin trees by playgrounds so the grass grounds and the ground drys out better. Need open space for the medichelicopter. • Please review National Park standards. Please consult with an outside certified Park Planner for an objective opinion. • This park is unique in our area in that all homes surrounding the park look directly at the park. We love having a view of the green spaces and are a bit nervous about the park becoming overbuilt. Can we just leave it as it is and use our money to fix drainage, clean it up (trees, some grading), and maintain the beauty and peacefulness of the area? • This basically reconfigured what was existing to add a retention pond. Keeping mixed use field in the middle of the outfields seems to make more sense. These ball fields (at least one of them) don't need large outfields, as these are for young players. • Pet waste and pets off leash are a big problem at this park. I recommend signage. • The parking lot looks like a legitimate safety hazard. It needs to be able to service many families with young children coming and going at the same time. With additional cars in the center, I fear someone is bound to get hit. • No on parking spaces. • Concerned still about the drainage, safety along Willow. • 1 believe B gives the park more options for using different ways. Concept B: What do you like about the design? Open -Ended Response • Nothing • Nothing `F • Nothing • Again, not much. • I don't. • This is just crazy ... who can even figure out what's going on here? Cocking the field at an angle? This isn't what the citizens want. • Not a good design • It's better but too dense athletic activity • This is the best design • I love this design. Two ball fields and several overlapping multi -use fields. I think this offers the most flexibility for people to enjoy this park. It also seems to offer more parking than option A and has some nice landscaping. • Bigger parking lot. Many field options • Parking lot is easy to get in and out of, nice big storm water pond. Would love to see a rain garden • The multiuse fields are a better use of space? Parking is better situated on the one end. The restroom position is more accessible, easier to get to. • Parking and all of the field space. • Maximizing space, optimal parking concept • Easy parking Maximizes space • Parking appears to be more functional than concept A • Everything except the parking spaces • A large parking lot is essential. Two baseball fields are also critical. As mentioned before, OBO's 4-6-year-old age group has grown by over 20%, and there are already not enough fields to support the demand. If one of the fields is removed, it will make it very difficult for young kids to play locally in Orono — limiting access and possibly pushing games to other cities. • Parking and drainage designs. Most multi use option • Two ways to enter/exit parking lot, including access on Elm Ln; Restroom is located near where current port -a -potty is located and close to proposed parking • The parking area is nice • Larger parking lot with 2 entrance/exits. This would be really helpful for peak times. I also like that the 2 entrances are on different roads to help with traffic flow. • Larger parking lot and ability to keep 2 fields. • Two ball fields is critical. Multiple mixed use field opportunities. Parking is enhanced and kept out of the way. • The location of both ballfields, having the balls hit towards the center of the park. The flow and size of the parking lot. Having one entrance on Willow and one exit on the side street. The location of the drainage ditches. • Has two baseball fields • I like the angle of the fields, the flexibility of the middle part of the park, and the parking lot having entrances/exits on different roads • Multiple multi use fields while maintaining two baseball fields. Looks like larger parking lot. • Seems to maximize the space for the most uses • I like the variety for multi use fields. • 1 like the big multi use field, the parking and the 2 ball fields • The multi use fields! Better than the field. 18 • Lots of field options • Again storm water pond addresses long standing drainage issues. Two baseball fields that look appropriate for 10u players. There is a strong need for this type of field space. • This seems to be the design that is the least disruptive to the park's current design IF the field at the corner of Elm and Hackberry could be turned so home plate is next to the parking lot area. The neighbors that attended the open house agree with that as well. Also having the restrooms on Willow will be more convenient for utility workers and locals who use the current Biffy on a regular basis. • The large green space is maintained. The large pond at the entrance along Willow, the trees lining Willow. The ball infield locations on opposite ends will provide space for spectators without feeling cramped. The parking lot looks easy to enter and exit during busy peak game times. Playground and basketball is away from parking lot and moving vehicles. • Extra shade • The line of trees along the main road, the ability to fit more fields • Storm water drainage Concept B: What do you dislike about the design? Open -Ended Response Nothing • Nothing nir l +hat mi irh RAct r1ocian nut of the 3 by a landslide. • The whole layout is no goid • Too busy • Seems complicated • To congested • Feels super busy. I don't like the water right behind where parents would likely sit and constantly have to be keeping an eye on younger children -better when the water is in the outfield. Also balls would be coming towards the playground area then too. • The field design appears confusing and is not a good layout • Doesn't flow well and, again, trying to pack too much into too little space. • Ball fields and multi use can't be used at the same time • Soccer field seems a bit strange being diagonal • Appears unrealistic given the slope. It's a lot of fill or retaining wall to make those center fields playable. • Seems harder to schedule multiple events, but I'm not sure how the seasons align so that may not be an issue. • Why take away both ball fields for soccer? Soccer and baseball can happen simultaneously in option A • 1 think the mixed use field space is going to be challenging to realize with the existing grade. There will likely need to be retaining walls adding cost. • Massive amount of grading cut/fill will be required. SE dugout will encourage kids messing with the pond. • parking is taking up too much green space • Parking spaces are not a good idea. Keep our green spaces and find a better solution. • Parking looks to be safer, large fields with plenty of room. • Parking is off to one side. 19 • 1 think this parking lot might have a more challenging flow - is it one way in and one way out? • So you are putting a parking lot in the corner where three new residences will be built across the street? What is the problem with leaving the park layout the way it is? • The paving for the parking lot. Could it be gravel to look more natural? Also, same issue with the bleachers. • Baseball fields oriented away from parking lot. More people will park on the road. • Parents will park as close as they can to a field of play. Need picnic area by playground so kids can eat and play. • Spectators are along the street Parking lot entrance off of Elm • The baseball field seems very close to the playground in this scenario. Also, the sidewalks/walking paths are only on the perimeter • Parking lot not centrally located but not a huge Deal. Feels like bathroom is furthest away from everything but again not a dealbreaker • Bathroom not near playground Parking on side streets • Location of restrooms. Need to be near play area Too many multi use ideas will be a mess with lines. Not clear where bikes go • Not my favorite spot for the restrooms, but doable. • The bathrooms are not close to the key activity areas. • Line more trees along Elm, Maple, and Hackberry. Add trees around the basketball court and along the west side of the parking lot, and the restroom. • No walking paths. • Again, I don't like the pond. Dangerous for little kids and can attract more mosquitoes • I'm concerned about the lack of space for spectators to sit near the field along Willow Drive. With how the fields are laid out, there doesn't seem to be enough room for families to comfortably watch games. The bathroom near Willow is also attracting a lot of unrelated drive -by traffic — people stop to use the bathroom or throw away trash. While it's a park, it's become busier than intended, and people often end up sitting or parking in ways that block access to walk along the road. Most importantly, there's a major safety issue with Willow Drive itself. The current speed limit, combined with the lack of a designated walking path, creates a serious hazard for pedestrians — especially families with children. A sidewalk or walking path is badly needed. The massive stormwater pond could help, but also takes up a lot of space -would need to learn more about this. Concept B: Additional feedback Open -Ended Response Thic is my first choice out of all of the plans. • Dislike. • Again, please refer to National Park and Recreation standards that state two t-ball fields with spectators need 4 acres of land. Hackberry is only 3.58 acres. There is too much there already re: amenities. • massive field size leaves no room for trees or shrubs. Leave the mature trees. • Same as Concept A: This park is unique in our area in that all homes surrounding the park look directly at the park. We love having a view of the green spaces and are a bit nervous about 20 the park becoming overbuilt. Can we just leave it as it is and use our money to fix drainage, clean it up (trees, some grading), and maintain the beauty and peacefulness of the area? • Activity and density need to be away from the homes. Where is a relaxing area and blanket space. Regrading is big bucks. • No hard spaces for cars. Slow the speed limit down on willow and have cars park on the east side of willow. • Please update the playground equipment. Is that a sidewalk around the perimeter? If so I think that's a poor use of finances because no one is going to walk all the way around walking youth sports. There appears to be parking all the way around the park's perimeter, is that accurate? • Would LOVE to see additional benches near the existing playground. Currently it's just tables, benches would enhance for parents. • Really hope you resurface the basketball court too. • Pet waste and pets off leash are a big problem at this park. I recommend signage. • what about a set or two of bleachers. • If the fields are level, this makes the most sense for sports teams. Sledding Hill is wishfully think with this design • Is the stormwater pond required? Would seem to be an excellent mosquito breeding area and would require additional maintenance Concept C: What do you like about the design? Open -Ended Response • Nothing • Zippo .. need T ball fields • Not much, sorry. Especially the parking lot going almost all the way to Hackberry Hill • Wow this is insulting. The Citizens already rejected this plan. Why is it even included in this survey? • No — I do not support the plan for just one field. There is far too much parking proposed for only one field. Orono Baseball is incredibly important to this community. Keeping two fields is essential. Without two fields, the large parking lot becomes unnecessary and a waste of valuable space - people just squatting. This park should prioritize space for sports and activities — not excess parking. We have seen the OBO numbers go up 20%! We need the fields. This area is meant to serve our kids and families. Let's keep it focused on what matters. • This is perfect! It is the right blend of open space and mixed use to parking. • Well designed. Central parking. • I like this design best. It seems balanced and best use of space for flexibility with good flow. Parking is centralized and accessible • Love the simplicity of this design! 2 clean and separate sports areas. Larger parking lot is a win! • Parking, 2 separate fields for field sports and baseball/softball. Perfect design • Best parking. Still get a lot of things. Yes, cutting out one baseball field, but this feels spacious and not too chaotic while still meeting needs. • Lots of parking! 21 • Seems like most parking • Best parking option. Bathroom in central location • Parking lot in middle of park. Encouraging parking in the lot more than on the road. • Everything except the parking spaces. • This offers a lot of parking, but I'm afraid it does it at the expense or removing playing fields. • Favorite design of the 3. Best parking and use of fields seems better for multiple sports at one time. • Easiest and safest, multi sports on the same night • Good separation of multi use and ball field. Could successfully play multi games. Nice restroom location. Parking off main road • Mix use design. Playground and open space available which is consistent with mix use parks in the area • Preferred Design Good separation between playing fields Efficient parking Good restroom location Eliminates need for perimeter sidewalk and allows for trees around periphery Spectators don't have to stand along a street • This is my vote! I like that the baseball field is clearly distinguished from the multi use field. • Clean design, parking spots look maximized and the shelter area off the park and the fields is nice. • Less congested • Less crowded with one ballfield. Having the open field on the north end. • Nice and tidy .... dont need 2 baseball fields so C is best i think. • The soccer leaves the baseball alone. • Large grass infield baseball diamond can be used by older players. If not grass infield, then nothing positive. • The shelter and bathrooms are near the playground. • Bathroom near playground More parking with access to all fields • Lots of centrally located parking and bathroom. Big soccer field • Restroom proximity to basketball and infield. All the trees around the whole park is great for shade, buffer, and water drainage. The large multiuse field looks good for soccer, flag football, lacrosse, fairs or community events, fitness classes or bootcamps, summer camps. • Local of restroom • I like the sidewalks/walking paths throughout the park and where the restrooms and shelter are located. The parking lot separating the field areas is also nice. Concept C: What do you dislike about the design? Open -Ended Response • Nothing. Great design • Nothing. "'othing • All the things • Doesn't feel like it's making the most use out of the space • My least favorite of the three designs. Too much paved parking. • I don't like that you have to pass through a parking lot to get from one field to the other. 0 • The parking lot down the middle of the park. Location of the south ballfield, the balls will be hit towards Willow. • Parking lot feels like it takes up so much more of the park - lots of nonporous space. Cuts the park in half. • massive field and massive parking leave no room for trees and shrubs; parking splits the park in half • 1 do not like the parking or fields. • Don't get rid of green space for vehicles. Find a better solution. • Waste way to much natural/green space with parking. Only has 2 bball fields. Only has one parking entrance/exits, which will be a disaster on Willow • Parking lot should have a second entrance on the opposite end to help with traffic flow. Looks like it would get very congested with one entrance/exit. • Parking lot in middle of park raises new safety concerns with park visitors needing to traverse the parking lot to get to the restroom from the multi -use field; only one baseball field • Having to cross parking lot to use other half. • Could cars also exit from the other side of the field? Hackberry Hill is a less busy street than Willow. • To big of parking lot, takes away from park use. • The parking lot, while spacious, it could have entrance/exit from hackberry on the west. • Only 1 ballfield and parking between the fields • Uses a large part of grass for parking lot, lose a baseball field • Orono does not need another softball filed and this is not what the Citizens wanted. They need TWO t-ball fields for the league. • Kicks little kicks out, invites older kids and possible weekend games. It's not what this land/ neighbors can support or want. T ball needs more fields not soccer and softball • Only one ball field and the restrooms/shelter too close to neighbors' homes. There is a concern about late night gatherings after park hours (teens). • Loss of second ball field. Parking eats a ton of space. • Only one baseball field. • No — I do not support the plan for just one field. There is far too much parking proposed for only one field. Orono Baseball is incredibly important to this community. Keeping two fields is essential. Without two fields, the large parking lot becomes unnecessary and a waste of valuable space - people just squatting. This park should prioritize space for sports and activities — not excess parking. We have seen the OBO numbers go up 20V We need the fields. • Limits number of teams for all sports looking to use the space. So there's a part of me that dislikes that is is the easiest. • Would be hard to lose a baseball field! Also not a fan of the storm water pond. If this is a requirement for run off water, what will the city do to block it off from young kids and control mosquitoes? • Losing a baseball field feels like a non starter • It had less playing fields. • Is there only one multiuse area? • The outfield needs a fence to keep balls out of swamp area and off willow. • Part of the sledding hill is blocked by ball field/benches • Make sure sledding lane is free of obstacles 23 Concept C: Additional feedback Open -Ended Response • Stop wasting Citizens time trying confuse them with a rerun of something they already said no to. This is disrespectful. • Do not like this plan, 3rd choice. • Worst design of the 3. • A is the best. This is 2nd best option. And option b just plain sucks. • 1 like this one • This is the winner • In my nnininn Chic is tho nnly rlocian thnt mnlsoc conco • Please upgrade the playground. Orono needs better playgrounds/structures/materials. • Any proposed plans to upgrade the playground? • Would LOVE to see additional benches near the existing playground. Currently it's just tables, benches would enhance for parents. • It would be nice to have the basketball court turned into a pickleball court since there are hardly any people playing basketball. It's currently a wasted space. • A walking path around the park would be nice. • Don't put in a parking lot for cars. Never get rid of the green space or trees for parking. • Leave the mature trees and plant more around the fields. Kids need shade when at sporting events. • And again: This park is unique in our area in that all homes surrounding the park look directly at the park. We love having a view of the green spaces and are a bit nervous about the park becoming overbuilt. Can we just leave it as it is and use our money to fix drainage, clean it up (trees, some grading), and maintain the beauty and peacefulness of the area? • Way is the parking lot not in/out on each end, why can't someone enter/exit from hackberry. How popular is baseball needing two fields in the other designs vs one field here plus a mult use field. The water run off is farther from parents watching children play. • If a second field could be added to corner of mixed use area, this could be an ok concept. • field use doesn't seem maximized but I'm not sure on demand of such spaces so up to city • Pet waste and pets off leash are a big problem at this park. I recommend signage. • Develop a plan with density and play away from the homes. Keep the park for young and challenged. Need relax area., blanket space, bench vs bleachers. Pull the T ball diamonds to the west, put parking with enter on Elm, and exit Maple and curbing on Willow edge. Bathroom on Willow side for contractors, UPS, Garbage drivers etc. Open culver under Willow and put excess water in the swamp. Your plans put high density with people and cars and activity nights. Not all parks need heavy activity. That does not make it a park. Define park and figure out what it should be for density. Put what you don't have elsewhere that attracts low density in people and cars. Keep in mind parent habits and wants and the impact on surrounding areas. We have Willow which is a Responder route, narrow neighborhood road and NO parking signs don't work on activity nights. How about a quiet area to set and veg. • do not support this set up unless you have another field designated that is new for T-ball and Pitching Machine. • I believe we need at least 2 ball fields. • Should be easier plumbing for bathrooms based on old house location. 24 Major issues This is a regional park but no clear sidewalks to access it from neighborhoods and nearby Long Lake supportive businesses. Also kids need safer walkways from the Orono schools. Extend a safe sidewalk from sidewalk that is already part way from the area with gas station, McDonalds and now new ice cream shop. Clearly identify and protect a bike trail. Also the regional park will have greater attendance and the speed limit should be 20mph with a warning light. It now changes to 40 mph which says wow speed up you are passing a park. Do not wait until an accident happens to make connecting sidewalks ,bike trails, and speed limit changes. A crosswalk maybe . Safety should be the number one priority . We would also support a reduced speed limit near the park. We would also love to see a bike path/sidewalk on Willow for kids to safely ride bikes to the park! It would be wonderful to add a splash pad in the area where the former house used to be as water is already piped in. That area would also be close to the playground and restrooms in this plan. The parking lot could be reduced by a small amount to accommodate a splash pad and there would still be plenty of parking for the park. 25 Hack ber r y Park �rVey Results I ;91; W. 01. WHY WORK ON THIS PARK 020 WHO TOOK THE SURVEY 03. HOW DO THEY USE THE PARK 04. FEEDBACK FROM EACH DESIGN 05, MOVING FORWARD .......... .......... .......... U TABLE OF CONTENTS 27 WHY WORK ON THIS PARK? Hackberry Park has been a long-term focus for the City, with community members consistently expressing interest in upgrading and improving the space. The City purchased the one remaining private property on the park in 2016, officially acquired it in 2022, and cleared the site in 2023. Now, with strong community support and feedback we're moving forward with the next phase of this long-awaited project. V r fr a' S- 41 • Field Equipment • Parking and Safety • Dead/Dying trees • Drainage WHO TOOK THE SURVEY? TOTAL RESPONSES COMPLETION RATE A TYPICAL TIME SPENT ® MOST -SKIPPED 53 89% 6m:27s QUESTION Q12-Concept B: Additional feedback Skipped:39 Is tnis useful? is this useful? {A is tnis usetu[' o~t 4' Are you an Orono Resident? Answered: 53 Skipped:0 ANSWER CHOICES Yes N0 TOTAL RESPONSES 96.23% 51 3,77% 53 29 HOW IS THE PARK USED? How do you use the park? (Select all that apply) Answered:52 Skipped:1 Youth Sports Baseball or 26.92% Softball Youth Sports Football, 28.85% Soccer, and... The Playground and/or 69.23% Basketball... Sledding 48.08% Open field use (frisbee, 42.31% bocce, free... Relaxing (reading, 48.08% walking,... Other . 5.77% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 30 DISCLAIMER All comments are shared in their original form, with no spelling, grammar, or content edits, to ensure participant feedback remains unchanged. . . . . . . . . . . .......... .......... 31 32 LIKES Themes of " Like" comments: Plan: 3 Parking: 14 Bathrooms: 5 Ballfields: 14 Multi Field: 6 Sledding Hill: 4 Trees/Native Plants: 5 Drainage: 4 ADA Improvements: 1 Nothing: 5 • Keeps both baseball fields • large fields • I like that you get a lot of the things you are looking for - park, baseball, soccer, sledding, parking • seems to maximize efficiency of various uses, parking doesn't consume plan like Concept C • Two ball fields is critical. Open mixed use field is good, but basically same size as current field. • Both baseball fields are oriented for the bleachers to be close to parking lot. Encouraging people to use parking lot more than the road. • I like the two baseball fields and the storm water pond addressing an area of drainage concern. • Keeps 2 baseball fields! • Multiple baseball fields, central parking, bathroom by park. • Fans of baseball/softball will be away from Willow • I like that is has two ball fields and a multi -purpose field. • I like the 2 ball fields and the separation of the multi use field • Maximizing field space while maintaining the park and shelter area. (comments on the ballfields) . . . . 33 • Smaller parking lot • Cars parking on the streets • parking looks too tight. • Parking spots in the middle of the lot, not much multi use field options. • Large paved parking area eats up a lot of grass area. Would require a lot of earth work/grading/retaining walls • Parking lot takes up valuable mixed use space • Parking on hackberry, maple, and elm • Parking area seems too small still • No on the parking stalls. Never get rid of green scape for hard scape. When we get rid of green we will never get it b ack. • Doesn't seem to have enough parking. • Parking lot driveways are too close together. Parking lot is on edge of outfield • Parking lot entry/exit is only on Willow • Parking looks limited and dysfunctional which could lead to cars parking on the street by the houses again. • Parking lot looks like it may be tight to navigate during peak game times. ( commentson parking) DISLIKES Themes of "Dislike" comments: Nothing: 5 Parking: 19 Bathrooms: 2 Ballfields: 9 Multi Field: 5 Use of Space: 7 Trees/Native Plants: 1 Drainage: 3 . .10. . . . . . 34 Themes of "other" comments: Like Layout: 1 Parking: 3 Playgrounds: 5 Drainage: 1 Pets: 1 Green Space/ Trees: 2 Pat h s: 1 Park Standards: 1 OTHER FEEDBACK • Upgrade the current playground that is there. Oronos playgrounds are just all subpar compared to surrounding cities. • Please update the playground equipment. I love Plymouths many little neighbors playgrounds/parks and I wish Orono would enhance their overall park system to something closer to Plymouth. • Any upgrades to the playground? • Would LOVE to see additional benches near the existing playground. Currently it's just tables, benches would enhance for parents. • A picnic area needs to be by the playgrounds. Moms bring lunch and kids take a bite, play and come back for more bites. Thin trees by playgrounds so the grass grounds and the ground drys out better. Need open space for the medichelicopter. (comments on playgrounds) 35 36 Themes of " • I love this design. Two ball fields and several overlapping multi -use • fields. I think this offers the most flexibility for people to enjoy this • nice landscaping. • • Bigger parking lot. Many field options • Parking lot is easy to get in and out of, nice big storm water pond. LIKES Would love to see a rain garden • The multiuse fields are a better use of space? Parking is better Like" comments: situated on the one end. The restroom position is more accessible, easier to get to. Plan: 5 Parking: 19 Bathrooms: 3 Ballfields: 10 Multi Field: 15 Trees/Native plants: 3 Drainage: 5 Nothing: 7 park. It also seems to offer more parking than option A and has some • Maximizing space, optimal parking concept • Easy parking Maximizes space • Parking appears to be more functional than concept A • Everything except the parking spaces • A large parking lot is essential. Two baseball fields are also critical. As mentioned before, OBO's 4-6-year-old age group has grown by over 20%, and there are already not enough fields to support the demand. If one of the fields is removed, it will make it very difficult for young kids to play locally in Orono —limiting access and possibly pushing games to other cities. • Parking and drainage designs. Most multi use option • The parking area is nice • Larger parking lot with 2 entrance/exits. This would be really helpful for peak times. I also like that the 2 entrances are on different roads to help with traffic flow. • Larger parking lot and ability to keep 2 fields. (comments on parking) 37 • Parking lot not centrally located but not a huge Deal. Feels like bathroom is furthest away from everything but again not a dealbreaker • Bathroom not near playground Parking on side streets • Location of restrooms. Need to be near play area Too many multiuse ideas will be a mess with lines. Not clear where bikes go • Not my favorite spot for the restrooms, but doable. • The bathrooms are not close to the key activity areas. ( comments on bathrooms) DISLIKES Themes of "Dislike" comments: Nothing: 3 Parking: 10 Bathrooms: 6 Ballfields: 3 Multi Field: 6 Use of Space: 11 Trees/Native Plants: 1 Drainage:4 Walking Paths: 3 38 Themes of "other" comments: Like Layout: 1 Dislike Layout: 1 Parking: 2 Playgrounds: 2 Drainage: 1 Pets: 1 Green Space/ Trees: 3 Pat h s: 1 Park Standards: 1 Basketball Court: 1 OTHER FEEDBACK • Really hope you resurface the basketball court too. • Pet waste and pets off leash are a big problem at this park. I recommend signage. • what about a set or two of bleachers. • If the fields are level, this makes the most sense for sports teams.Sledding Hill is wishfully think with this design • Is the stormwater pond required? Would seem to be an excellent mosquito breeding area and would require additional maintenance (comments on assortment of topics) 39 • . • • . . . FEEDBACK ON N CEPT C f 40 a�wo° • This is perfect! It is the right blend of open space and . mixed use to parking. • Well designed. Central parking. • I like this design best. It seems balanced and best use of space for flexibility with good flow. Parking is centralized LIKES and accessible Themes of " Like" comments: Plan: 10 Parking: 16 Bathrooms: 11 Ballfields: 8 Multi Field: 11 Trees/Native plants: 1 Drainage: 1 Nothing: 5 • Love the simplicity of this design! 2 clean and separate sports areas. Larger parking lot is a win! • Parking, 2 separate fields for field sports and baseball/softball. Perfect design • Best parking. Still get a lot of things. Yes, cutting out one baseball field, but this feels spacious and not too chaotic while still meeting needs. • Lots of parking! • Seems like most parking • Best parking option. Bathroom in central location • Parking lot in middle of park. Encouraging parking in the lot more than on the road. • Everything except the parking spaces. • This offers a lot of parking, but I'm afraid it does it at the expense or removing playing fields. • Favorite design of the 3. Best parking and use of fields seems better for multiple sports at one time(oommentson the parking) 41 • My least favorite of the three designs. Too much paved parking. • I don't like that you have to pass through a parking lot to get from one field to the other. • The parking lot down the middle of the park. Location of the south ballfield, the balls will be hit towards Willow. • Don't get rid of green space for vehicles. Find a better solution. • Waste way to much natural/green space with parking. Only has 2 bball fields. Only has one parking entrance/exits, which will be a disaster on Willow • Parking lot should have a second entrance on the opposite end to help with traffic flow. Looks like it would get very congested with one entrance/exit. • Parking lot in middle of park raises new safety concerns with park visitors needing to traverse the parking lot to get to the restroom from the multi -use field; only one baseball field • Having to cross parking lot to use other half. • Could cars also exit from the other side of the field? Hackberry Hill is a less busy street than Willow. • To big of parking lot, takes away from park use. • The parking lot, while spacious, it could have entrance/exit from hackberry on the west. • Only 1 ballfield and parking between the fields • Uses a large part of grass for parking lot, lose a baseball field ( commentson parking) DISLIKES Themes of "Dislike" comments: Nothing: 3 Parking: 15 Bathrooms: 1 Ballfields: 14 Multi Field: 4 Use of Space: 4 Trees/Native Plants: 2 Drainage: 1 42 Themes of "other" comments: Like Layout: 4 Dislike Layout: 3 Parking: 2 Playgrounds: 3 Pets: 1 Green Space/ Trees: 2 Paths: 3 Basketball Court: 1 Sp I ash Pad: 1 Baseball Fields: 3 OTHER FEEDBACK • A is the best. This is 2nd best option. And option b just plain sucks. • I like this one • This is the winner • In my opinion, this is the only design that makes sense. • Stop wasting Citizens time trying confuse them with a rerun of something they already said no to. This is disrespectful. • Do not like this plan, 3rd choice. • Worst design of the 3. ( comments on design) 43 SUMMARY .......... .......... .......... y�y^� HACKBERRY PARK CONCEPTA 0 O n`ni DHACKBERRY PARK �CONCEPT C HACKBERRY PARK CONCEPT B I Top 3 themes of concerns: 1.Parking (location and size) 2.13aseball fields (the quantity and locations) 3.Multi Use Field (the size, quantity, and location) SUMMARY 45 PRO B LEM S VS SOLUTION what is the latest design based on the feedback HACKBERRY PARK CONCEPT B LATEST CONCEPT --- LAYOUT a.x._ , _ . a_ s ,„_.,. / . Thoughts and Feedback li I mt- I 47 AGENDA ITEM Date: August 5, 2025 Title: Antione Park Update Presenter: Joe Ruthenberg, Superintendent - Parks, Facilities Section: Staff Report Purpose: To give an update to the commission on the Antione Park Master Plan. Item: 2. Background: The scope of work for the Antoine Park Master Plan will be to develop a plan with short and long term improvements through a process including staff, parks commission and public engagements. 3. Summary: The Antoine Park open house will be taking place on Wednesday August 20th at 5 to 7pm, the project sub -committee, consisting of Brain Roath and Michael Huddy will be in attendance along with city staff. An online questionnaire will also be available to fill out to for anyone who cannot make the meeting. 4. Funding: City Council approved at the May 27th meeting a Antoine Park Master Plan not to exceed proposal of $10,600. 48 AGENDA ITEM Date: August 5, 2025 Title: Additional Park Commission Work Session Presenter: Joe Ruthenberg, Superintendent - Parks, Facilities Section: Staff Report Item: Purpose: To vote to add an additional Park Commission work session on September 9th at 6 pm, to discuss the Guiding Commission Document. 2. Background: A commission sub -committee has been meeting regularly to work on a guiding commission document which they would like to present to the commission at work session for discussion. 3. Staff Recommendation: Approve adding an additional work session on September 9th at 6 pm. 4. Park Commission Action Requested: Approve a motion to schedule an additional Park Commission work session on September 9th at 6pm. 49 AGENDA ITEM Date: August 5, 2025 Title: Tree Lightning Presenter: Joe Ruthenberg, Superintendent - Parks, Facilities Section: Staff Report Item: Purpose: To form a sub -committee to help plan and fund raise for the Tree Lighting event at the Orono Oaks Golf Course. 2. Background: The City of Orono has been hosting an annual tree lightning. This free event has included live music, food and drinks for sale, hot chocolate, fireworks, and a visit from Santa. 3. Funding: $10,000 was allocated in the 2025 Parks General Fund 4. Park Commission Action Requested: Vote to appoint park commission members (up to 3) to assist with the planning, fundraising and coordination of the annual tree lighting event. 50