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HomeMy WebLinkAboutParks and Recreation - 05/20/1991 4y'i'. ... �. .;. � ..=i. C {,�Y��..,, ...:.o r 1�.,.e�.,..4a,i.�r..��.?N.'.�. ._..,._.;+s:, ..,;SP�h Jt,.:_..:.J.�"14.Ia..lvr-tiH�A�.Jx9NnuMwa+r..•.......... ::Y't- tt l t 1991 MAY 6 20 MINUTES CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE r �� AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, MAY 6, 1991 7:30 P.M., CITY HALL 7600 EXECUTIVE DRIVE NOTE: Meeting will be held in the Lunch Room COMMISSION MEMBERS: Bruce Bowman, Karon Joyer, Paul Karpinko, David Kuechenmeister, Diane Popovich Lynch, Pat Richard, Del Vanderploeg COMMISSION STAFF: Robert A. I..ambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources I. ROLL CALL II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF APRIL 1. 1991 ` III. PETITIONS REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. SSE Capital Fleet Services Request to Remove Geese from Prol2erty on Andersons Lakes B. Adult Scholarship RgQuest C RgQ.uest from the Eden Prairie Figure Skating Club for Additional Ice Time IV. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS A. None V. OLD BUSINESS A. Center Care Program VI. NEW BUSINESS A. Proposal for Repair of Barn on the Riley-J! acaues Homestead VII. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF A. Reports of Commissioners ( 1. Ikon Garden Club Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Agenda - May 6, 1991 a Page 2 B. Rports of Manager of Parks and Natural Resources 1. Earth Week Uadate and Arbor Day Proclamation 2. Options for Seal Coating Trails 3. Larkspur Lane Easement Condemnation A. Reports of Manager of Recreation Services 1. Roports on Cultural Arts Programs 2. Historical and Cultural Commission Organizational Chart VIII. ADJOURNMENT parkag/1 i s P } J I k i 1 r li i i 9 �' d } :APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Monday, May 6 , 1991 7:30 p.m. , City Hall 7600 Executive Drive COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Pat Richard, chairperson; Bruce Bowman, Karon Joyer, David Kuechenmeister, Diane Popovich Lynch (late) COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: Paul Karpinko, Del Vanderploeg COMMISSION STAFF: Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources; Lyndell Frey, Recreation Supervisor; Laurie Helling, Manager of Recreation Services; Dave Black, Community Center Operations Supervisor I. ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by chairperson, Pat Richard. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION: Joyer moved to approve the agenda as printed. Kuechenmeister seconded the motion and it passed 4-0. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF APRIL 1, 1991 MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to approve the minutes as printed. Bowman seconded the motion and it passed 3-0. Joyer abstained. IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. GE Capital Fleet Services Request to Remove Geese from Property on Anderson Lakes Refer to memo dated April 29, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. Lambert reported that the City received a request from Judith Brinkhaus of GE Capital to remove six pair of geese from the GE property. Judith was present at the meeting. " APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6, 1991 -2- Judith Brinkhaus read a statement which said that while GE is concerned with wildlife in the area, they are requesting an ongoing maintenance program to remove geese from their property on an as needed basis. Two years ago it was felt that a one time removal of geese from this property would resolve the problem; however, there are now 6-8 pairs of geese on the site. If the geese were to remain on the site, it would become even more difficult to control the problems that occur with cleanliness and safety. At the present time, it is necessary to constantly wash the walks and parking lots because of the amount of goose droppings. GE Capital has been in contact with Dr. Cooper at the University of Minnesota because of their concern for other geese in the area, as well as other wildlife. Dr. Cooper feels that the removal of these geese would have a minor effect on the geese in neighboring areas. Bowman asked who pays for the removal of the geese. Lambert said it is the responsibility of GE Capital. Bowman asked if a permit is required to remove the geese. Lambert said a permit is not required, but the DNR has given cities the responsibility to make the decision to remove geese. Joyer asked where the geese are taken. Brinkhaus said the young remain in Minnesota and the others are taken out of state. Kuechenmeister asked if Dr. Cooper is being compensated for his advise. Brinkhaus said no. John Parker, Area Wildlife Manager from the DNR, was present at the meeting. Parker said the DNR does not endorse the removal of a large number of geese, but would like the City to set a goal of how many geese can be managed in a particular area. Parker added that Eden Prairie' s problem is more difficult in that both Eden Prairie and Bloomington are involved. Parker said that Dr. Cooper is interested in research i only and is not interested in making money from the i removal of geese. He added that the amount of geese present now is only a small portion of what will be here later in the season. APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6, 1991 -3- Kuechenmeister asked if Dr. Cooper has a goal in mind for the number of geese that would be manageable in this area. Parker said no. The number of geese should be set by the parties involved, but would need to be reasonable. Kuechenmeister said he feels if the City is to rely upon Dr. Cooper' s expertise, there should be a way to determine how many geese should be maintained. Parker said that non--breeders are still in Canada; however, there is a large potential for numbers to increase again rapidly. Kuechenmeister asked if numbers of geese have been determined for other area lakes. Parker said it is basically a City decision. He said that no matter how intense the removal program is, there will always be geese moving back on the site. Joyer asked how long the geese have been coming back to the same spot. Parker said they return to the same spot for many years and the mortality rate is low in this area because it is a protected area. There is no hunting and no natural predators. Joyer asked if GE Capital plans on removing all geese on their site. Brinkhaus said they would like to remove all the geese on GE property and leave them on the lake. Jan Habek of 8056 Ensign Road said the only thing on Anderson Lakes is the wildlife, since it can't be used for swimming or boating. She feels the removal of the geese would be taking something away from the lake and upset the balance of nature that is involved. She suggested alternative methods such as a fence around GE Capital property. Mrs. Bill Peter of 8101 Ensign Road said that she asked to work with GE Capital on the removal of geese two years ago, but was never contacted to do so. She wants the geese to stay where they are. They are not dangerou and she feels that people have invaded the geese' s environment. Mrs. Peter also said that you expect to have animals nearby when you live in a protected `- area. APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6, 1991 -4- Maryjean Carr of 8100 Ensign Road said she moved to Bloomington in 1982 and has been studying geese since 1972. She has been in contact with the University of Minnesota regarding this study. There has been a gradual increase in the number of geese during the spring and summer. On three different days, Mrs. Carr counted 7, 11 and 14 geese on GE Capital property. None were observed in the doorways and there were no obvious droppings in the area. Mrs. Carr strongly opposes GE Capital ' s request to remove geese from their property. Alternatives are for GE to fence their property or the use of mylar tape which has been proven effective against geese. Lynch asked about the use of mylar tape. Mrs. Carr said the tape is reflective and geese will not cross areas on which the tape is strung. Mrs. Carr said that the City considers Anderson Lakes a wildlife refuge and advises that a study be done to study the effects the removal of geese would have on other wildlife in the area. Frank Hartman of 8216 Ensign Road said that he has six pairs of geese on his property and an additional 15 geese come in daily for feeding. He believes that the City should have a plan to remove some of the geese and suggested a plan similar to the one used at Lake of the Isles where the birds are banded and a similar number of goslings are kept. Richard asked if there was a problem with geese prior to GE Capital owning the property. Residents commented both yes and no to this question. Kuechenmeister said that Parker mentioned some reasonable precautions that could be taken to eliminate the nuisance caused by the geese. Parker said that mylar tape works only some of the time and there is no control of how it is applied or maintained. Fencing is another option or letting the grass grow very tall around the property. He feels a barrier is the best alternative. M "APPROVED MINUTES C. EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6, 1991 -5- Lambert asked how effective barriers are unless the geese are flightless. Parker said that geese will be flightless only for about 2-1,/2 months, and barriers are not effective when they can fly. Richard asked if GE Capital could allow the grass to grow around their property as a detriment to the geese. Brinkhaus said the grass is not mowed around the lake area and the property wouldn't look well with long grass all the way around it. Kuechenmeister asked if there have been any studies done on using predator silhouettes. Parker said that people have tried using owl or swan decoys, but they haven't worked. Hartman asked if some type of scent can be used. Parker said that geese do not respond much to odors. Carr commented that the plan used to reduce the number C of geese at Lake of the Isles, Normandale, etc. would not work here because Anderson Lakes is not similar to the other lakes. Bowman said he assumes that the City does not have a goose control program. He commented that portions of Bryant Lake Park are not useable because of the geese. He asked Brinkhaus to clarify the problem GE Capital is experiencing with goose droppings. Brinkhaus said that the amount of goose droppings makes the walkways slippery to walk on and it has become necessary to pressure wash these areas on a continual basis. Bowman commented that he was on the GE Capital property last Saturday when he observed three geese and again today when he observed six geese. He saw a few droppings in the parking lot. Bowman feels there should be a way to control the number of geese to a certain point and that the City needs some type of a policy. w. L ;ut i; 'APPROVED MINUTES C . 6, 1991 EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May -6- Richard said that the Commission is here to respond to anyone in the City, both business and residential , in regard to goose removal. He added that a recommendation cannot be made without looking at a nd feels that the Commission needs long-term policy a more information from the University of Minnesota and should visit the site before making a decision. Richard asked if GE Capital employees are aware of the goose removal tan.whethernoraus notstod that removethe mployees theegeese. are also split as o GE MOTION: Lynch moved to continue the request from endin Capital to remove the geese from their property p g a more thorough study of options for goose removal in Eden Prairie, both on public and private property. The study should include alternatives to manage the geese, in addition to removing them and should be backed up by national studies. It should also take into acount the affect this would have on other wildlife. r Kuechenmeister seconded the motion. On call for discussion, Kuechenmeister asked what the time frame is for completion of the study. Lambert said that no one on City staff is qualified to do the study requested and it will take at least 30 days to get quotes from qualified consultants. Lambert reminded the Commission that the issue is on the Council agenda for tomorrow night, May 7, and that Cooper generally will only take contracts for removal up to May 15. foyer said she has a. real problem with giving a corporation an ongoing maintenance program to remove geese. j Lynch did not want to hire a consultant to do this I study and suggested that other cities in the area be surveyed to find out what they do and she also feels it is important to get an expert' s opinion on the problem. Bowman asked if the type of information that is provided would perhaps include the number of geese that will be allowed in a particular density. APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6, 1991 -7- Lambert said that staff can provide the information from other cities in two weeks, but the Commission will have to make a final recommendation on the number of geese that should be allowed. Kuechenmeister asked for clarification of attacks by geese. He asked Parker is geese pose a safety problem. Richard said that in the interest of time, this question will also be discussed at the May 20 Commission meeting. The motion passed 4-0. B. Adult Scholarship Program Refer to memo dated May 1, 1991 from Laurie Helling, Manager of Recreation Services. Helling said that she received a request from Laura Hinton, Adaptive Recreation Supervisor for the City C of Edina, for an adult scholarship for a physically disabled Eden Prairie resident to participate in the Swimnastics program. Staff recommends denial of the request because there is no money allocated in the budget for adult scholarships. staff suggests that an adult scholarship program be established in 1992. Joyer asked if this person can go elsewhere for assistance. Frey said that the Jaycees have offered to pick up the costs for this individual up to $50.00. Lynch asked if this was the first request for an adult scholarship. Helling said this was about the fifth or sixth request and the others have also been denied. Joyer asked if there are any scholarships available through the Senior Center. Helling said they offer 50% off Community Center memberships and programs to seniors. ` MOTION: Lynch moved to deny the request to include adult scholarships with youth scholarships and recommending establishing an adult scholarship program for 1992 for $500.00 with criteria determined by staff. Joyer seconded the motion and it passed 4-0. APPROVED MINUTES (^ EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6 , 1991 -8- C. _Request from Eden Prairie Figure Skating Club for Additional Ice Time Refer to memo dated April 26, 1991 from Dave Black, Community Center Operations Supervisor. Dave Black said he received a request from the Eden Prairie Figure Skating Club for additional ice time; however, to provide the ice time requested, it must be taken from the Hockey Association. Kathy Miller, President of the Eden Prairie Figure Skating Club, said that because of the limited ice time that is available, the group has to "regrow" the club every several years. The City has supported beginning skaters, but the club would like more consideration given to advanced skaters. Sue Septer said that the club needs consistent blocksonal of ice time each week because they rely upon pr Cinstructors. Dick Berg of the Eden Prairie Hockey precedenceAssociation overdoes should not feel that one group be necessary the other, but that a second sheet of ice may to solve the problem. Miller added that there is more ice time available to purchase during the summer which generates lots of business for the Community Center, but that people are turned away in the fall. She also understands the hockey perspective. Tom Veniser believes that the situation mentioned by Kathy Miller creates a lot of confusion among users. Dee Posin said that the unique thing about figure skating is that precedence for ice time is given to residents so when the skaters go somewhere else to practice, they have to wait for ice time. Richard asked if there are early morning hours available. Miller said that kids can't take advantage of early morning hours because there isn't enough time before school . High school age skaters can make more use ( of the 6:00 a.m. ice time. APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6 , 1991 -9- Wayne, Eden Prairie High School Hockey Coach, said that although the high school has precedence over the other groups on ice time, he believes that a second sheet of ice is the only option. Lambert said that the second sheet of ice will be discussed at the May 20 Commission meeting. Kuechenmeister asked if there have been any discussions among the groups on the options presented in Dave Black' s ; memo. Black said that the high school was not copied on the memo because a decision would not affect them, but the other groups have not discussed the available options. Miller said that many pros also work out of other rinks and even if ice time becomes available, it may not fit into their schedule. Richard suggested that a compromise be reached similar to what was done about swim time. Miller said the Figure Skating Group is constrained because they can only have a limited number of skaters on the ice and because of liability, cannot share ice time. Berg said that he doesn 't feel that scheduling consistent ice time for the Figure Skating Club will be a problem. Sue Anderson said that the purpose of the request was not to take ice time away from anyone, but rather to have consistent ice time. Richard asked if the request being made by the Figure Skating Club is reasonable without upsetting the Hockey Association schedule. Black said that additional ice time is available on Tuesday and Thursday when the high school hockey team plays games "away" , and would add 45-90 minutes four to five times per year. Posin said that when ice time is contracted, it needs to be reserved for a three month period and it seems that the higher skill kids are supporting the younger skaters. / I .. +'.. Nx ti iAPPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6 , 1991 -10- Richard feels that when the high school has away games would be prime time for the figure skaters. Miller said that the pros are not always available because they are already scheduled at another location. Black said that if this ice time is not taken by the Figure Skating Club, it is for sale. Posin said that the Figure Skating Club is reluctant not to take the ice time even if it causes a financial hardship because they are afraid it won't be offered ;: to them in the future. Lynch said it should be easier to schedule ice time when the Hockey Association schedule is set a year in advance. Miller said if the times are not consistent, it is not of much benefit. Veniser said the club has to have a certain number of skaters to break even. It takes 16 people to reach that point which will create a significant demand for ice time. Black said that any extra ice time would be welcomed by both of these groups. Miller suggested that Black and representatives from both the Figure Skating Club an.-I Hockey Association review the schedules to come up with a compromise. Bowman asked how many hours the Hockey Association has per week. Black did not have the information available, but said that the Hockey Association is the largest user with over 500 members. Lynch requested that Black report back to the Commission on both group' s feelings on the options he suggested, as well as others that they might come up with. MOTION: Bowman moved that since it seems to be the desire of the Commission to have a more equitable amount of ice time between the Figure Skating Club and Hockey Association, representatives from both groups and Dave Black will meet to come up with some options. Kuechenmeister seconded the motion and it passed 4- / 0. The issue will be discussed again at the May 20 l Commission meeting. r;t, ti .. l" APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6, 1991 -11- V. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS None VI. OLD BUSINESS 1 A. Center Care Program Refer to memo dated March 27, 1991 from Lyndell Frey, Recreation Supervisor. Frey said that the center care user survey information was included in the packets. As of April 30, 26 out of 65 families responded to the survey. Frey added that 28 new families used the program in April. Currently center care is losing approximately $250.00 per month. By increasing the hourly rates and charging an annual fee, the center will still lose about $130. 00 per month. Caroline Headseth said that she would not be taking Cclasses at the Community Center without center care for her two children. She asked if the program is being run as a service or as a business to make money. Lambert said that center care was started as a service to be run on a break-even basis. New rules instituted by the State have made this more difficult. Mary Campbell commented that center care will probably j never break even and will always be inconsistent. I Frey said that the main problem has been the new rules which require two people to be present at all times. Kuechenmeister asked if the State will give on the rules in this case. Frey said no. Y Richard asked if staff on duty could also be doing other things related to parks and recreation. Frey said they are already trying to do this. Richard said that staff' s main concern is subsidizing center care when there are other needs within the City. Joyer asked if most users are involved in activities at the Community Center. Frey said it is about 50- j ( 50. Ia a ";APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6 , 1991 -12- Headseth said she does not believe the public is aware of center care and feels that it should be advertised 1 more. MOTION: Lynch moved to recommend that effective June 1, a $25.00 application fee will be instituted for members of the Commmunity Center with a rate of $3.00 per hour. For those not wishing to pay the application fee, the hourly rate will be $3. 50 per hour with a 504 reduction for a second child. Staff will continue to monitor the program and report back to the Commission on October 1. Kuechenmeister seconded the motion and it passed 4-0. VIZ. NEW BUSINESS A. Proposal for Repair of Barn on the Riley-Jacques 3 Homestead Refer to memo dated April 29, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. Lambert said that Mrs. Jacques has offered to donate $5000 to the City toward repair of the barn if the I work is done in 1991. Total cost of repairs would be $24 ,874. Staff suggests using cash park fees for this repair. Lambert added that it is not known whether other bids will be available for the barn restoration. I. Richard said he spoke to Mrs. Jacques today and she was concerned that the barn remain part of this historic site. He added that more money may be required in the future to make the structure useable for programs. Lambert said that City staff would paint the barn at a cost of approximately $2000 after the restoration work is completed. Lynch asked if there is any protection against vandalism in these types of City buildings. Lambert said that there is an alarm system at CumminsGrill house and this barn would most likely have a simple alarm system if it was used for storage. r "''APPROVED MINUTES } EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6 , 1991 -13- Bowman asked what additional work would have to be done to bring the barn up to code. Lambert said that the fire marshall would place a limit on the number of people that would be allowed inside the building without additional exits, sprinkler system, etc. Joyer asked if the $25 ,000 figure includes the $5000 donation. Lambert said yes. MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to recommend approval to proceed with the restoration of the Jacques barn in 1991 not to exceed $25,000 including the $5000 from Mrs. Jacques. Joyer seconded the motion and it passed 4-0. ; VIII. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF A. Reports of Commissioners 1. Update on Garden Club Joyer reported that the Garden Club met two weeks ago at which time the members signed up for various committees. The first two projects will be the intersection of Valley View Road and Eden Prairie Road and the peony beds at Cummins-Grill. The club received a $2000 grant from the Eden Prairie Foundation with the only stipulation being that the project be visible. Support from the City was also discussed. The City will be involved with the preparation on the initial bed, watering and winter care. Work on the peony bed at Cummins-Grill will consist of tagging the plants for color this spring and perhaps separating them and selling them for a fund raiser at Sunbonnet Day. Joyer said that Bud Baker is in charge of the group. The next meeting is tomorrow evening. Lynch asked how many people are in the Garden Club. Joyer said that there were 30 people at the initial meeting with 16-18 at the last meeting. t;: r ;APPROVED MINUTES ,Y EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6 , 1991 -14- Lynch asked is plantings at Staring Lake were discussed. Joyer said that the wildflower garden at Staring Lake has already been established by Rod MacRae. Joyer added that the club is trying to contact the Peony Association in Hopkins with no luck so far. Lambert asked if the group would have a design available soon for the Round Lake project. Joyer said yes. B. Reports of Manager of Parks and Natural Resources � - 1. Earth Week Update and Arbor Day Proclamation 2. Options for Seal Coating Trails 3. Larkspur Lane Easement Condemnation These are information items only. C. Reports of Manager of Recreation Services 1. Reports on Cultural Arts Programs Bowman said that he was not aware that the Historical and Cultural Commission had their own budget until he read this report. He is surprised that the Commission would hire a professional dance company for their spring program and have a loss of revenue. Bowman said that the public has access to these types of programs in the metro area and could understand the promotion of cultural groups that are based in Eden Prairie. Helling said that she took over as staff liaison to the Historical and Cultural Commission last fall and one of her suggestions for 1992 is to find out how much the City is willing to subsidize these programs. 2. Historical and Cultural Commission Organizational Chart Helling explained that the Historical and Cultural Commission is an advisory commission to the City Council. This organizational chart was provide for the Commission' s information. A I ; i I I Lj li„ ti I:. r r APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 6 , 1991 -15- IX. ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Joytermseconded to atheumotion andrn the titg passed. 4-0 . Kuechenmeis Respectfully submitted, Lois Boettcher Recording Secretary w . �, .r i. . . . ., .t. r5 . 1 ! . . "' ." •Y' .. .i>nl!sA.?'!IiY ,nLlw y w ..�!�., AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, MAY 20, 1991 7:30 P.M., CITY HALL 7600 EXECUTIVE DRIVE COMMISSION MEMBERS: Bruce Bowman, Karon Joyer, Paul Karpinko, David Kuechenmeister, Diane Popovich Lynch, Pat Richard, Del Vanderploeg COMMISSION STAFF: Robert A. Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources I. ROLL CALL II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MAY 6 1991 IV. PETITIONS REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS CA. Prairie Restoration Proposal V. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS A. Riversedge Plan Development B. Hidden Creek C. Highway 494 Racquet Club D. Anagram International E. Round Lake View 2nd & 3rd Addition VI. OLD BUSINESS A. GE Capital R uest to Remove Geese from Property on Anderson Lakes (con't from May 6. 1991) B. R?4i►Pct from the Eden Prairie Figure Skating Club for Additional Ice Time (con't from May 6. 1991) VII. NEW BUSINESS A. Estimated Cost Considerations for a Second Sheet of Ice at the Eden P airie Community Center B. Policy for Allowing Privately Supervised Horse Activities on Park ProWrty ii VIII. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF A. None IX. REPORTS OF CITY COUNCIL A. City Man r' .Update - MU-1-Q. 1991 X. ADJOURNMENT PARKAG/BOB Mh+a:•�4+�Sn APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Monday, May 20, 1991 7:30 p.m. , City Hall 7600 Executive Drive COMMISSION STAFF PRESENT: Pat Richard, chairperson; Bruce Bowman, Paul Karpinko, David Kuechermeister, Diane Popovich Lynch (late) , Del Vanderploeg COMMISSION STAFF ABSENT: Karon Joyer COMMISSION STAFF: Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources I. ROLL CALL b The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by chairperson, Pat Richard. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to approve the agenda as printed. Vanderploeg seconded the motion and it passed 4-0. C III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MAY 6, 1991 The minutes will be approved at the next Commission meeting, as there were not enough members present at the meeting who had attended the May 6 meeting. IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Prairie Restoration Proposal Refer to memo dated May 17, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks , Recreation and Natural Resources. Craig Johnson, Eden Prairie High School teacher, was present at the meeting and said that the project would be a cooperative effort between the school and the City to reestablish a prairie in Eden Prairie. Students at the meeting presenting the proposal were: Angela Wartman of 9800 Friar Dr. ; Brent Busse of 8944 Darnel Road; Erin Pryor of 6967 Sand Ridge Road; Tracy i Cronen of 9043 Victoria and Jill Bulau of 7238 Topview Road. I . { ?}y APPROVED MINUTES C EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20, 1991 -2- Brent Busse said that the class went on a field trip to gain a better knowledge of what has happened to the prairies. They would like to receive a land grant to reestablish a prairie in Eden Prairie. Jill Bulau said that the reasons the students wish to reestablish a prairie is to benefit future generations and to learn more about prairie plants and the habitats needed for them to grow. y� Richard asked how many students went on the field trip. Johnson said there were 110 students. Vanderploeg asked what sites were visited. Jill Bulau said the group visited the bluffs area and the Cummins- Grill house. Kuechenmeister asked if the students have been in contact with the Department of Natural Resources. Johnson said they had been in contact with the DNR. Tracy Cronen reported that besides the field trip, the students did lots of class work in which they selected a group project. The projects included constructing an 1890 schoolhouse, the history of math, changes in the dimensions of a baseball field, a map of Eden Prairie and a comparison of homes. The students also made a video which was shown to the Commission at this time. Josh Bixby of 10021 Laurel Dr. and Gwen Wyard of 8741 Black Maple Dr. also made a presentation to the Commission. Josh said that the first steps would be to identify resources and address implementation concerns such as people and financial resources, potential sites, site selection, solving logistical concerns on steps for restoring, long range planning, aesthetic questions and management and support systems. Gwen said the students realize the project will take lots of work and time in order to establish the prairie and the support systems are very important. The ad hoc committee would be a link between the City and the school and they would like the Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission to approve the philosophy of the project, provide representation and input on the ad hoc Prairie Restoration Committee, help develop a time line leading up to prairie planting in spring of 1992 and make a proposal to the City Council. \ APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20, 1991 -3- Kuechenme:ister asked how many students are interested in pursuing the project. Gwen said that the Environmental Club and other students have shown interest. Vanderploeg asked what the Garden Club' s response was to the project. Gwen said the group was interested. Lynch asked who would be organizing the project. Gwen said that the Prairie Restoration Committee would work in conjunction with the Parks, Recreation and Natural , Resources Commission. ry Lynch asked what time frame is being looked at for completion. Gwen said it depends upon the size of the site but it usually takes about three years to reestablish a prairie. Richard asked if there are places in the city that will not be developed in the future where a prairie can be established. Lambert said this project was initiated by Craig Johnson and the students who were looking for parkland to work with. Some of the land is not suited for prairie and others that are have been designated to be used for ballfields, etc. Lambert suggested considering the bluffs area, private property or the BFI site. Vanderploeg recalled that when the Commission and City Council toured the bluffs area several years ago, it was apparent that there were many possibilities available in this area and also much damage was being done by off the road vehicles, etc. Lambert suggested that the Commission approve the proposal at tonight's meeting and discuss the issue again at the next meeting when the students have had the opportunity to gather more information on sites, future meeting dates, etc. Lambert said the group could meet at the Outdoor Center. Bowman complimented the teachers and students for their concern of the environment, but asked how the site for the prairie would be cleared. C Johnson said this would depend upon the site, but it would have to be considered. 4 ...... `i. APPROVED MINUTES C EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20 , 1991 -4- MOTION: Vanderploeg moved to recommend approval of the prairie restoration proposal. The issue will be discussed in more detail at the June 3 Commission meeting when more information will be presented. Kuechenmeister seconded the motion. On call for discussion, Kuechenmeister said he is very excited about the proposal and would like to serve on the ad hoc committee. The motion passed 4-0. :. V. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS A. Riversedge Plan Development Refer to staff report dated May 10 , 1991. Lambert said that the developer has requested a continuance to the June 3 meeting. �. B. Hidden Creek Refer to staff report dated May 10, 1991. Jim Zachman was at the meeting to make a presentation to the Commission. Zachman reported that this site is located east of County Road 4 at Mere Drive on 6.7 acres. The proposal is for four single family lots, ten townhouse lots and five outlots. 170 caliper inches of trees will need to be removed because of the private loop road. Lambert said that this proposal was denied by the Planning Commission because of the single family homes being located around the entire site. Lambert added that the shoreland management ordinance is in effect because of the proximity of this site to the creek. The developer will dedicate Outlot E to the City. There are some lots located in the conservancy zone and the Purgatory Creek study was considered. Dedication of land conforms to this study. Lambert said that tree removal on the site is 32% with ( the average being 30%. The developer has agreed to the tree replacement policy. 4 C APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20, 1991 -5- Richard asked if a bike trail was required along County Road 4 with the last development approved in this area. Lambert said he believed that the developer was required to grade a 10 ' wide pad and this developer should also be required to do so. Lynch asked why this development is before the Commission when it has been denied by the Planning Commission. Lambert said this rarely happens because the developer usually -� gives up at that point. This Commission's concerns should be related to the parks, recreation and natural resources issues involved. The Planning Commission denied it based on land use issues. A resident living on Terrace Wood said that the developer but the site will not have access to the outlot without will be using the driveways of the existing homes, crossing private property because of the density. She added that school buses will not come into the neighborhood because it is a private road. She is also concerned with tree removal and the environmental issues involved. Bowman asked about the location of the present driveway and what development plans are. Zachman showed the location of the Olson and Stodola driveways and the proposed plan. Richard asked if it is true that school buses will not come into the neighborhood because of the private road. Lambert said that the street will meet City standards and if it is kept clear in the winter, buses should be able to enter although this would have to be determined by the school. Richard asked if there will be a berm added to the development. Zachman said no, as there are already existing trees on the site. Vanderploeg asked what types of trees will be added. Zachman said mostly evergreens will be planted to replace the deciduous trees that will be removed. a r}i %PPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20 , 1991 -6- Kuechenmeister asked how many residents were present at the Planning Commission meeting that opposed the development. Zachman said there were about 12 residents at the meeting. They had a problem with the construction of twin homes with single family homes and the size of the lots. Zachman feels this development will add value to the other homes in the area. Lynch asked about access to the outlot without going across private property. Zachman said that there will not be access to -the outlot, as it is landlocked. Richard asked what staff ' s feeling is about the outlot being owned by the City or the homeowners association. Lambert said he is not as concerned about this issue as he would have been prior to the shoreland management ordinance. He feels it is important to keep the outlot preserved, but the City would not mow it. He would not have a problem with having the homeowners association own and maintain the outlot providing there was a scenic easement on the outlot that restricted tree removal, grading or construction of any structure, etc. Zachman requested that the outlot be owned by the homeowners association so that it is maintained. MOTION• Lynch moved to recommend approval of Hidden Creek per staff recommendation with the understanding that the outlot will be owned by the homeowners association with a scenic easement and that the developer will grade a 10 ' wide path along County Road 4. Vanderploeg seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. C. Highway 494 Racquet Club Refer to staff report dated April 5, 1991. Lambert said that the major issue is the land use acquisition. The City owns the existing land by the reservoir and the club wants to expand their parking lot and dedicate four tennis courts and 2.21 acres to the City. The park will eventually have playground equipment and a small park shelter. Staff feels this is a good trade-off in lieu of cash park fees and recommends approval. YY APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20, 1991 -7- MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to recommend approval of the Highway 494 Racquet Club proposal per staff recommendation. Lynch seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. D. Anagram International Refer to staff report dated May 10, 1991. Lambert said that this site is located across the road from City Hall. All the land has been graded with the exception of a couple oak trees which will be lost. He added that the building will be very attractive and Anagram is planning on a corner park area at the entrance to their building. Richard asked if the City recognizes businesses for their beautification efforts. Lambert said they can be commended and he suggested that perhaps the Garden Club could give out an award every year. MOTION: Karpinko moved to recommend approval ofAnagram International with the addition of a sidewalk on the interior of Equitable Drive to the existing trail along Valley View Road. Bowman seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. E. Round Lake 2nd & 3rd Addition Refer to staff report dated May 10, 1991. Lambert said that this site is located on ten acres north of Valley View Road and north and west of Duck Lake Road. The only issue was sidewalks which has been .resolved. Jim Zachman said the construction of the sidewalk is almost complete and the site will consist of 29 single family lots and a road right-of-way. MOTION: Karpinko moved to recommend approval of Round Lake 2nd & 3rd Addition per staff recommendation. Lynch seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. „ ' ,. -i -.,.y .S :.,,' •.: `.... ; 1,-1: . .. , r 'rl . r�A,.S, r �....I .H �.1, s ';f t. APPROVED MINUTES 9f` EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20, 1991 -8- VI. OLD BUSINESS A. GE Capital Request to Remove Geese from Property on Anderson Lakes (cont, from May 6, 1991) Refer to memo dated May 14, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Reosurces. Lambert said that at the May 6 meeting, the Commission recommended that the decision on removal of geese from GE Capital property be continued. The City Council agreed to give GE Capital approval to remove the geese for this year only and asked that the Commission propose a City policy for the removal of geese in Eden Prairie. Lambert said that staff did not find a city in the area that has a goose management policy. Several cities identify the problem areas and contract with Dr. Cooper to modify the numbers and remove the geese. Edina notes any complaints and asks Dr. Cooper to study the ( particular areas. Chanhassen does something similar and will add sites to the list if there are a enough Staff is not qualified to do a wildlife management plan for the City and Lambert does not consider a contract with Dr. Cooper as a management plan. He talked to the Hennepin Parks naturalist, as well as the DNR. The DNR says goose removal is not a biological question, bur rather a social and political question. Lambert said that Round Lake beach and picnic area have problems with geese in August. The beach has been closed twice by the Health Department for this reason. Lynch reported that she made several phone calls to gather information on the goose management issue. Edina Country Club has had some luck with styrofoam geese and chasing them away. Dr. Cooper arrived at the meeting at this time to answer the Commission' s questions. Lynch continued her report by adding that Colonial Church of Edina uses swans and wire a couple inches above the water which has been successful. Olympic Hills removes the geese. i APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20, 1991 _gam Lynch said that this seems to be a common problem and one which nobody has found a solution. She added that there will be a scent on the market in about a year called "goose vamoose". Lynch asked what other options there are besides removing the geese. Dr. Cooper said that shifting birds from one place to another, fencing and chasing them are only a temporary solution. He added that there really is not a technique to displace the geese in Eden Prairie other than to reduce their reproduction or survival. Geese are very intelligent and require a tremendous amount of food. They also prefer manicured lawns next to watering areas, Kuechenmeister asked Dr. any he is working on and whether pit iswamthreer ea in Edina { or just a start-up program. Dr. Cooper said that rthism is Edina ' s fifth year in the program and they are currently controlling seven sites which have been selected by the City based on the number of complaints received. Golden Valley is in its sixth year, as well as New Brighton where the numbers of geese have been drastically reduced. The problem with Chanhassen is that it is surrounded by other areas that are not controlled so the effectiveness of the program is not the best. Dr. Cooper added that what determines the effectiveness of the program is the ability for new geese to come in. This is the fourth year of control at Olympic 1 Hills. He has also worked with Chanhassen in the both at Lake Lucy, Lake Ann and Lake Minnewashta. Lake Minnewashta is going down slowly. ' tha cost effectiveness comes in as numbers of He aret reduced. Bowman asked how it is decided what control is and how many geese to leave on a particular site. Dr. Cooper said that numbers are decided by the City. Bowman asked if the numbers at Edina ' s seven sites are all different. Dr. Cooper said Edina has decided on a number of 25 geese per site. This relates to 4-5 pair and their offspring. .. F '1 7 1 I, APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20, 1991 -10- Lynch asked for an explanation of how the geese are removed, where they are taken and what is the benefit of this technique. Dr. Cooper said the young birds are kept in the state and adult geese are taken to distant locations because of their navigational ability. Kuechenmeister asked if there are any biological controls available. Dr. Cooper said that coyote or red fox would be the only ones that would work and they cannot be brought into the Twin Cities. Dr. Cooper added that the geese hatch about 80% of the eggs that are ^- laid. Vanderploeg suggested that the Commission meet with Bob Lambert and Dr. Cooper to draft a wildlife management policy. Lambert suggested that an sub-committee be appointed to draft a policy. The sub-committee will consist of Lynch, Richard, Vanderploeg and Bowman. i B. Request from the Eden Prairie Figure Skating Club for Additional Ice Time (cont, from May 6 , 1991) This item will be continued to the June 3 meeting. VII. NEW BUSINESS A. Estimated Cost Considerations for a Second Sheet of Ice at the Eden Prairie Community Center Refer to memo dated May 6, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks , Recreation and Natural Resources. Lambert said that staff has met with interested citizens to prepare cost estimates on a second sheet of ice at the Community Center. Operating costs would be about $100 ,000 per year. Construction costs were received from Shingobee Builders for a metal panel building with no seating for $1.1-$1.3 million. This would not meet City code and to make the building a brick structure would add $100,000-$200,000 to the cost. Mortenson Construction estimated a cost of $1, 540,000 and submitted a very complete report. The report showed hockey team locker rooms in the North Stars space and did not consider the cost to buy-out North Stars space. Forcing them out of their contract would cost about $240,000, but Lambert believes this figure can be reduced. APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20 , 1991 -11- Lambert also believes that an Olympic size sheet of ice should be considered for an additional cost of $190 ,000. Lambert said that previous Councils have decided that a second sheet of ice should be included in park bond referendums , but both referendums failed. The bottom line for adding a second sheet of ice is having enough revenue to pay it off in 20 years. If the rink was operated six months out of the year with the same amount of hours as last year it would come to 1666 hours of ice time. If ice time were rented for $90.00 per hour, this would generate $150,000 per year. Both the figure Skating Club and Hockey Association -- fees would be higher. Tne only costs left are the operating costs. Staff' s feeling is that we do not require other sports to pay for operating costs and if there is a need, the City should go ahead and add a second sheet of ice if the Council believes we can afford it. l Dave Goodmanson, President of the Eden Prairie Hockey Association, said that there is a problem with available ice time. The Hockey Association has worked hard to build up their group and deserves more ice time. Out of 550 skaters, the association has purchased $57,000 worth of ice time or approximately 734 hours, but they have also purchased $36,545 worth of ice outside of Eden Prairie or about 36% . The association is aware of the other groups who are also experiencing problems with ice time and have been using the early morning and late evening hours. Goodmanson added that the Eden Prairie Hockey Association already has some of the highest fees in the Twin Cities for registration. He feels that if fees continue to be raised and it is necessary to travel to other locations to practice, people will not participate in hockey because of the expense and problems involved. He said that the association has been relatively stagnant in growth compared to other sports because of the requirement for young children to play late at night during the week in communities far from home. Goodmanson asked the Commission to review the report from the Hockey Association. ` 1 r APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20, 1991 -12- Sue Anderson of the Figure Skating Club distributed a memo outlining the amount of ice time that would be required if a second sheet of ice were added. Anderson said the higher level skaters are leaving Eden Prairie for additional ice time and she feels both skaters and coaches could be retained if more ice time was available. Anderson said that the Skate with Us program could also be expanded. Wayne Eklund, Eden Prairie High School Hockey Coach, said that both varsity and junior varsity practice could be run at the same time and it would allow all levels of players the time to develop their skills to the fullest extent. Lambert distributed a letter from Jack Norqual regarding the Olympic size sheet of ice. Dick Mills of 7200 Lookout Ct. , a hockey parent, said that players need to go somewhere else to get available ice time when it is not available in Eden Prairie. He added that the ice time they purchase is available only at the worst times of the day. He is not happy when his child is asked to skate on Sunday morning when he should be in church. Rick Patis asked why the facility couldn 't be used the other six months of the year for another purpose. Lambert said that a textured floor for soccer has been discussed along with batting cages, tennis courts, etc. These would be additional revenue producers, but would also add to the initial cost of the facility. Jack Norqual said that the second sheet of ice was the only item on the park bond referendum that produced income. He also felt that the facility could be used the other six months of the year, especially if it was an Olympic size rink. He feels that the City has everything to gain with additional revenue and other uses that would be available. Tom Kobel , a hockey parent, said that he is concerned with the large amount of kids on the ice at the same time at Saturday morning open skating. He feels the second sheet of ice would be justified for this reason only. f. ( APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. May 20, 1991 -13_ Vanderploeg said the City knew that a problem was coming with ice time in 1987 when it was added to the first park bonds referendum. The Commission is aware of the need and he has no problem with recommending a second sheet of ice to the City Council. MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to recommend pursuing the addition of a second sheet of ice on a lease purchase option for funding, to hire an architect to develop specifications and costs and to begin negotiations with the North Stars to buy-out their lease agreement. Lynch seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. Lambert said the issue will be before the City Council on June 4. ti. B. Policy for Allowing Privately Supervised Horse Activities on Park Property ( This item was continued to the June 3 meeting. VIII. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF None IX. REPORTS OF CITY COUNCIL A. City Manager 's Update - May 10, 1991 This is an information item only. X. ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Karpinko moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:45 p.m. Kuechenmeister seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. Respectfully submitted, Lois Boettcher Recording Secretary