Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutParks and Recreation - 06/17/1991 9G...f NO.a'.4cuf1HY'rYfuAhle:4; i ;G ,i 1991 .'Y �I. J w JUNE 3 17 i r MIN— UTES CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE - ',t .. ., ,�� .,: -- ��., .." ,'-.i•p. �.,7v°: -.,.,✓r,,.. ,�. .� . .. ._.. ... ,.. ,. .. n.i t.i A.,,.v..C.'.<�b+ .v ,{ »,� AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, JUNE 3, 1991 7:30 P.M., CITY HALL 7600 EXECUTIVE DRIVE I 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 & MAY 20, 1991 IV. PETITIONS REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS C A. V. pEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS A. River sedge Plan Development(con't from May 20. 1991) VI. OLD BUSINESS A. RRquest from the Eden Prairie Figure Skating Club for Additional Ice Time (con't from May 6. 1991) B. Prairie Restoration Committee VII. NEW B SINES A. Policy for Allowing Privately Supervised Horse Activities on Park Property (con't from May 20. 1991) B. Field Improvement Fund C. Eurasian Water Milfoil in Eden Prairie Lakes D. Consumption of Alcohol in Riley Lake Park i E. Revision of City Ordianance Related to Grass and Weeds on Private Property VIII. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF A. lYsn� IX. REPOBJM OF CITY COUNCIL A. City Mana rge 's URdate --May 4. 1991 X. ADJOU NWNT PABKAG/BOB r .APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Monday, June 3, 1991 7:30 p.m. , City Hal]. 7600 Executive Drive COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Pat Richard, chairperson; Bruce Bowman, Karon Joyer, David Kuechenmeister, Diane Popovich Lynch COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: Paul Karpinko, Del Vanderploeg COMMISSION STAFF: Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, :. Recreation and Natural Resources I. ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order at 7 :30 p.m. by chairperson, Pat Richard. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Lambert added VIII. A. Goose Management Plan. MOTION: Joyer moved to approve the agenda as amended. Kuechenmeister seconded the motion and it passed 5-0 . III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MAY 6, 1991 & MAY 20, 1991 MOTION: Joyer moved to approve the minutes of May 6, 1991 as printed. Lynch seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. Lynch noted that the word "commented" on Page 3, Paragraph 8, should be "complimented" . MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to approve the minutes of May 20, 1991 as amended. Bowman seconded the motion and it passed 4-0. Joyer abstained. IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS None V. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS A. Riversedge Plan Development (cont. from May 20, 1991) Refer to staff report dated May 10, 1991. i f Lambert introduced Gary Tusche representing Mr. and Mrs. Larry Fransen, property owners. zt APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. a NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 3, 1991 -2- Mr. Tusche reported that the site is located south of Riverview Road and west of County Road 18 on 55 acres in the bluffs area which will be divided into three residential lots and one outlot. He reviewed the site which is located within the Purgatory Creek Conservancy Area. Kuechenmeister asked if the ponds on the site will be aerated. Tusche said that they are spring fed. Lambert added that this area is located close to Riverview Spring. Richard asked if there are any trail issues or tree loss involved. Tusche said that total tree loss is less than 1%. Lambert said that the parks, recreation and natural resources issues include trail access which requires a 40 ' wide easement along the edge of the floodplain. CThe location of the lots has been reviewed to insure that the steep slopes on the north portion of the site are preserved. This is the area where the former caretaker' s home was located. Also, the area to the east on top of the hill contains a couple of large trees which will be removed. Staff recommends a scenic easement on the slopes located both to the north and south. The north slope preserves the view of the river valley and the majority of vegetation will also be preserved. The easement was originally located higher up on the slope, but staff has agreed to a waiver which will allow the owner to sell Outlot A to the Minnesota Wilflife Refuge. Staff recommends approval. Richard asked why there are only two lots located in this area. Tusche said that the steep slopes are not a barrier, but Mr. and Mrs. Fransen want to remain on the site and are concerned that the land be preserved to as much of an extent as possible. Lambert added that more lots would disturb the character i of the land. Bowman asked if the size of the homes is restricted. Lambert said that there is a steep slope ordinance r will be apply in this case. "1 ,APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 3, 1991 -3- Lynch referred to the statement in the staff report that the Purgatory Creek conservancy study is not being followed on this development, as the home on Lot 1 encroaches into the conservancy area. Lambert said that this study was done on a large scale and the conservancy line followed the roll of the valley and, in some cases, followed the fence lines. ;c Lynch said that the staff report also states that lots will be less than ten acres and asked if this is true. + Lambert said yes, one lot is five acres. Bowman asked why there is a break in the conservancy line between Purgatory Creek and the Minnesota River. Lambert said this is an access road which is required in order to develop the site. Richard commended the property owners for preserving the site to this extent. MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to approve Riversedge per staff recommendation. Joyer seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. VI. OLD BUSINESS A. Request from the Eden Prairie Figure Skating Club for Additional Ice Time (cont. from May 6, 1991) Refer to memo dated May 28, 1991 from Dave Black, Community Center Operations Supervisor. i Lambert said that this issue was discussed at the May 6 meeting and both the Figure Skating Club and Hockey Association met with Dave Black to attempt and come up with a compromise. Black reported that the Hockey Association serves 550 youth or 38 teams and is using 29 hours of ice time per week including two hours of non-prime time before school. The Figure Skating Club serves 24 youth who use an average of three hours of ice time per week. They skate before school 1-2 times per week. i _ *. -' •-:. - .... .. ....... . .. ! mom• n.,u•-. x4 r � . ., ...•.... ................ ....0.n.•.u,v.rv..r .ru+. eu 1:e'...:. is.'._... 'n ..... ....rr.ru•...•rn u_nr......v..-a...r�....v...�...r.._.._......_�..........�� ....r�...__.�_ ..� 1t rAPPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 3, 1991 -4- Black said that both groups are concerned with the limited amount of ice time that is available and how it has restricted the growth of their clubs. The groups could not work out a different schedule and wish to leave ice time as it is now. Lambert said that staff feels ice time is as fair as it can be at this time. Richard asked if the early morning hours can be scheduled for the Figure Skating Club and said that he has a difficult time taking ice time away from another group when that group is already using some of the non-prime time. Black said that the Figure Skating Club approached him sometime ago and said they could not afford to buy ice time on Monday and Friday and are using developmental ice time 1-2 times per week. They have discussed early Saturday and Sunday mornings, but feel it is also important to have some family time. He added that representatives from the Figure Skating Club were also invited to attend the meeting, but were not here yet. Kuechenmeister asked what the outcome was of the meeting between the two groups,. Black said both groups felt their needs could not be met with the present ice time, but they did not come up with a clear solution. The figure skaters can skate three hours per week and 135 of the hockey players do not skate even one hour per week. Dave Goodmanson, President of the Hockey Association, said he does not feel the figure skaters realize how much ice time the Hockey Association currently has. The Hockey Association is willing to give up one of the 6:00 a.m. practice times and move the Men' s League one-half hour later. This group does not finish until 11:00 p.m. now. However, it is difficult for the Figure Skating Club to get a coach there at 6; 00 a.m. Goodmanson, also feels that the more talented skaters and hockey players must leave Eden Prairie in order to skate. Joyer commented that with the loss of the last bond referendum, it became evident that some kids would have to be turned away before the need for a second sheet of ice became apparent. ` + y+ C '•APPROVED MI_:IJTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 3, 1991 -5- MOTION: Joyer moved to recommend that the ice time schedule remains the same per staff recommendation. On call for discussion, Bowman said he appreciated the time and effort put forth by both the Figure Skating Club, Hockey Association and staff to find a workable solution. Bowman seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. B. Prairie Restoration Committee w ' Lambert said that the Commission approved the concept of prairie restoration at the last meeting. He received the names of three volunteers who were interested in serving on the ad hoc committee. The first meeting has been set up for Tuesday, June 18 at the Outdoor Center. The three volunteers are: Stan Tekiela who has completed a degree in botany and teaches plant classes at both Hennepin Parks and the Outdoor Center. He has also published a book on wild and edible plants. Brett Hope is the Manager of Cedar Hills Golf Course and also manages Lynn Charlson' s property. He has started growing prairie grasses in this area. Kyle Brown is a landscape architect who has been living in Eden Prairie for only two weeks. He is a city planning consultant and very interested in prairie restoration. Craig Johnson said he had a list of 13 students who have expressed an interest in being involved on the committee. They range in age from ninth graders to seniors. He also has a list of seven faculty members including himself; Byron Anderson, science teacher; Steve Lyndall, biology teacher and Arnette Belle, principal at Oak Point Middle School who has, a small area on school property to be used for prairie development. He added that Dave Schaefer of the Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge is also excited about the idea and is interested in serving in an advisory role. Johnson said that the Garden Club and Minnesota Landscape Arboretum may also be interested in becoming involved in the project. r if ri l / `"!APPROVED MINUTES - C EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 3, 1991 -6- Johnson submitted a full list to Lambert who will sent an invitation letter to these people to attend the meeting on June 18. Richard, Kuechenmeister and Vanderploeg will also serve on the committee and Stu Fox will act as the staff liaison. : Kuechenmeister indicated that he had contacted two companies that provide seed stock and plant materials. They are Landscape Alternatives of Rosemount and Prairie Restorations Inc. in Princeton. He also has pricing and the species of plants that are available. Kuechenmeister also spoke to John Almendinger, Supervisor of the Natural Heritage Program with the DNR. It would cost about $1400-$1500 per acre to seed the prairie according to Prairie Restorations, Inc. which would require special equipment to do the planting although flowers could be planted by hand. Kuechenmeister has pricing and information on seed stock and labor. Kuechenmeister added that Bonita Eliason of the DNR Natural Heritage Program had a data base on existing prairie and found that Eden Prairie has one prairie remnant along the Minnesota River. Lambert said he talked to David Brown who indicated he would also be willing to work on the committee. Brown felt the best site in Eden Prairie to develop a prairie is between the airport and BFI in the bluffs area. Lambert added that the City Council would probably check with the Fire Department to determine when the best time would be to burn the area. Kuechenmeister said that both companies he contacted have offered to consult with the City and survey sites in Eden Prairie. Another site alternative that would require no burning or limited burning is on the landfill j site. There are 106 acres which will be capped and a total of 346 acres on the site. BFI may be willing to dedicate the land for this purpose and is investigating the feasibility of a prairie project. Craig Johnson feels one of the first steps in the prairie restoration process is to select site criteria. ( ',';sAPPROVED MINUTE: EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 3, 1991 -7- Lambert will forward all information presented to the City Council. He added that the Council would have to approve any expenditures or acquisition of land. Johnson asked if anyone from BFI is willing to attend the committee meetings. Kuechenmeister feels that this may be premature, as it depends upon the outcome of site selection. He asked if the City Council would have to approve the site in this case. Lambert said it would require City Council approval if BFI donated the land, but the City was to manage it. One of the students present at the meeting asked how the committee will get funding. Lambert said the committee will ask the Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission who would get City Council approval. He added that staff is currently working on the 1992 budget. Lynch asked about the budget timetable. Lambert said final budget approval is in October. Kuechenmeister asked if there is an opportunity to contract with one of the companies he contacted to survey site locations, would the money be available. Lambert said the City Council would need to approve all expenditures, but perhaps the funds could be donated by a civic organization or business. VII. NEW BUSINESS A. Policy for Allowing Privately Supervised Horse Activities on Park Property (cont, from May 20, 1991) Refer to memo dated May 14, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. Lambert said that the City receives requests from companies who wish to provide rides at company picnics. The City has not allowed horses in the parks because of liability concerns and rules not being followed. Staff has asked the city attorney and risk manager for their input in drafting a policy. Lynch asked if there are any pending requests. Lambert said no. APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM- June 3, 1991 -8- MOTION: Richard moved to recommend that standards for supervised horse activities on parkland be adopted. Joyer seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. B. Field Improvement Fund Refer to memo dated May 28, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. Lambert said that the adult softball players requested that a portion of the fees be set aside for field improvements. The fees started at $60 and $40, but have been adjusted several times . Last year a survey was done which showed that Eden Prairie was charging much less than surrounding communities. In the past, money was taken from cash park fees for field improvements and reimbursed from the revenue from fees. Staff is requesting authorization to continue allocating all adult team fee revenues to the field improvement fund until the cash park fees have been that maintenance fees have not repaid. Lambert added uld be considered in the future. been charged, but this co MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to recommend authorization for to continue allocating all adult team fee revenues above administration costs to the field improvement fund until the cash park fee fund is repaid 100$ for all approved field improvements. Lynch seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. C. Eurasian Milfoil in Eden Prairie Lakes Refer to memo dated May 31, 1991 from Stu Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources. Lambert reported that milfoil has been found in both Lake Riley and Bryant Lake near the boat access. The DNR will not allow closing off the boat access at Lake Riley. The area has been marked by buoys, but water skiiers have used them for a salom course. ~` .c le d 'J r` 'APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 3, 1991 -9- Lambert added that researchers have been having some luck with using a moth whose larvae feeds solely on milfoil, but it is a very expensive process. Staff is requesting authorization to treat these two areas at a cost of approximately $500-$600. If all lakes in Eden Prairie were involved and there was no cost sharing potential, cost to the City could be $31, 000 per year. Richard asked about the possibility of charging a launching fee to cover milfoil treatment. Lambert said this would not be possible unless all property owners were also charged to launch their boats. Lynch asked what type of fine is charged if milfoil is found on a boat. Lambert said the person is charged with a misdemeanor. Lynch suggested that a sign be put up at both boat launches. Lambert said there is a standard state sign ( already up at both sites. Bowman asked what is being done to monitor boats at these lakes. Lambert said the park attendant walks around the trailer and boat and also checks the live well. He added that Bryant Lake has a locked gate through which boats must pass and milfoil still got into the lake. Kuechenmeister said he feels that some additional signs stating that the spread of milfoil is a misdeamenor could be used as a preventative measure and would be cheaper than treatment. Bowman asked who is authorized to issue a misdemeanor. Lambert said it must be the police or the DNR. Kuechenmeister feels that it is important for notices to be put in the paper, etc. so the public is informed about the problem. Lambert said that the City has already sent out personal letters to all lakeshore property owners and held an information meeting with a speaker, sample of milfoil, etc. and only about five residents attended. Kuechenmeister said he feels this will be a long-term I_ education process. Richard feels perhapes the staff person should spend more time on inspections or that a gate should be used. t '`APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 3, 1991 -10- Lambert said a gate cannot be put in at a public access. He also does not feel that additional staff will be the answer. Kuechenmeister asked about the possibility of a redefinition of public access by the DNR. If this would be redefined, communities might have more control. Bowman asked if any milfoil has been found in the trash bins. Lambert said that weeds have been found, but he does not know if it was milfoil. Bowman suggested that perhaps a boat wash or an officer giving out citations might make people more aware of the problem. Lambert said the value of Eden Prairie' s lakes cannot be measured so he cannot comment on whether the ideas which have been presented are reasonable or not. ( Lynch feels that any permanent changes would have to `- be on a statewide process. MOTION: Joyer moved to recommend that a contingency fund be set up with the DNR to treat Eurasian water milfoil in 1991. Kuechenmeister seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. Lynch suggested that Lambert call the DNR and define possible restrictions and options available to control milfoil on a state-wide basis. I Richard added that we should also find out what other communities are doing. MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to continue this item to the next meeting for further discussion. Lynch seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. D. Consumption of Alcohol in Riley Lake_ Park Refer to memo dated May 31, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. Lambert said that the Commission suggested elimination i . of alcohol at Riley Lake Park several years ago, but it was rejected by the City Council. He feels that the majority of young people who come to the lake do so because it is the only one that allows alcohol. �.. ! :APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. a NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 3, 1991 The City recently spent $500,000 to acquire an additional 24 acres of land to expand the park and will spend approximately $50,000 to move the boat launch away from the beach expanding the beach and parking area. Bowman feels this may be another case of not enough policing in the area. Lynch asked if a sign would be put up if alcohol was eliminated. Lambert said yes. MOTION: Lynch moved to recommend that consumption and possession of alcohol at Riley Lake Park be eliminated. foyer seconded the motion. On call for discussion, Helling asked if this would include the use of alcohol on boats. Lambert said yes. ' a Bowman asked at which parks is alcohol allowed. Lambert said it is not allowed at Forest Hills, Prairie View, Flying Cloud Fields and the north side of Round Lake because of their proximity to schools or because they are used only for youth athletics. Bowman asked if this will restrict residents on the lake. Lambert said only those going through the public launch can be restricted. Lambert said he feels that Riley Lake is a special situation because of the water skiing, etc. The motion passed 5-0. E. Revision of City Ordinance Related to Grass and Weeds on Private Property Refer to memo dated May 31, 1991 from Stu Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources. Lambert said that this is a clarification of the ordinance that it is the residents responsibility to mow out to the curb. MOTION: Lynch moved to recommend approval of Ordinance 17-91 per staff recommendation. Joyer seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. w � t �i APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 3 , 1991 -12- VIII. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF A. Goose Management Plan Lambert distributed a memo suggesting when the sub- committee should meet and some criteria to follow. Lynch said that a meeting has been set for Saturday, :. June 8 from 8:00-9: 30 a.m. at Country Kitchen with Vanderploeg , Richard, Bowman and herself. IX. REPORTS OF CITY COUNCIL A. City Manager ' s Update - May 24 , 1991 This is an information item only. X. ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to adjourn the meeting at C9 :50 P.M. Joyer seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. Respectfully submitted, Lois Boettcher Recording Secretary ; : ;f- AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMNIISSION MONDAY, JUNE 17, 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 MI TES OF JUNE 3 1991 IV. PETITIONS' REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Request for Pedestrian/Bike Path Along Coun y Road 4 from Duck Lake Trial C to Valley View Road B. R-Quest from Wyndham Knoll and Hidden Glen Area Residents to Reconsider the Use of Wyndham Knoll Park for Athletic Association League Play C. RgQuest from Joni Strathy RE: Trail Outlot on Welters Way V. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS A. None VI. OLD BUSINESS A. Eurasian Watermilfoil in Eden Prairie Lakes (con't from June 3. 1991) VII. NEW BUSINESS A. HCRRA Rail Corridor. Hopkins to Chaska B. Resolution No 91-137 State ,rant-in-Aid Snowmobile Trail VIII. ER PORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF r A. Reports of Director of Parks. Recreation & Natural Resources 1. Red Rock Lake Trail 1.G.. B. Reports of Manager of Recreation Services 1. Summer Arts Camp 2. 1991 Farewell to Graffiti Bridge 3 Citation Award 4 Bike Social 5. Request from Historical ,& Cultural Commission to Sell Graffiti Bridge Souvenir Time Capsules at the 1991 4th of July Celebration B. C. Reports of Community Center Operations Manager 1. Summer Open Hockey ' 2. Summer Daytime Ice Rental - June 1 to August 30 IX. REPORTS OF CITY COUNCIL A. City Manager's Update - June 7. 1991 X. ADJOURNMENT PARKAG/BOB 1. , .......................�._.....«. .....- ...,... ..u. .r_. � ..ice .APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Monday, June 17, 1991 7 :30 p.m. , City Hall 7600 Executive Drive COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Pat Richard, chairperson; Paul Karpinko, David Kuechenmeister, Diane Popovich Lynch, Del Vanderploeg COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: Bruce Bowman, Karon Joyer COMMISSION STAFF: Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources, Stu Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources I. ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order at 7 :35 p.m. by chairperson, Pat Richard. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Lynch added VIII. A. 2. Report on Meeting Re: Goose and Wildlife Management. MOTION: Vanderploeg moved to approve the agenda as amended. Kuechenmeister seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JUNE 3, 1991 The minutes will be approved at the next meeting. I ' IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS i A. Request for Pedestrian/Bike Path Along County Road 4 from Duck Lake Trail to Valley View Road Refer to memo dated June 12, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. Lambert reported that a petition was received from 70 residents on the west side of County Road 4 north of Round Lake Park to Duck Lake Trail. Some of the residents were asked to attend the meeting. Staff recommends the construction of a trail in this area to be included in the 1992 budget. This trail system was part of the original "spine" system that was to be constructed with the first phase of the bike trail system in the community. This section of trail will be expensive to construct because of the bridge that is required over the railroad tracks. r APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM: June 17, 1991 -2- Doug Marston of 16650 Baywood Terrace said that the Duke Lake Association is very concerned that Eden Prairie Road is dangerous for those walking or riding a bike. The neighborhood is in an isolated area and it is necessary to travel along Eden Prairie Road. The speed limits along this road are often exceeded and there have been two serious accidents. Access to the parks is difficult from this neighborhood. Marston added that he had no problem getting signatures for this petition. He said he has also talked to people north of Duck Lake Trail and their interest in getting a trail constructed was also high. Sharon Ziegler of 16729 Baywood Terrace said there are 37 kids in this neighborhood with about 35 homes. As the kids are getting older, they are not satisifed with riding their bikes on the cul-de-sacs in the neighborhood and it is necessary for them to travel along Eden Prairie Road to reach Round Lake Park. Lambert commented that when the county improved County Road 4, they installed a multi-purpose lane which is a 4 ' shoulder separating walkers and bikers from the roadway. The City asked that the trail be extended to the Minnetonka line, but the request was denied. Bill Brownworth of 16769 Baywood Terrace said he agreed with what has already been discussed and feels that this area is a break in the link of trails in the community. Dave Ziegler of 16729 Baywood Terrace said that there is only a 1-1/2 ' curb to walk or ride a bike and if someone falls off the curb, it is right into the traffic. Harry ? of 16489 Baywood Lane said that the other ,iltnerative the kids have used is to go across the railroad tracks which is not a good option. Richard asked if anyone at the meeting lives on the other side of Eden Prairie Road. Brownworth said that the situation is even worse for those people. Richard asked if there is a way that the trail connection from the church property to the Duck Lake Trail system { can be made sooner. APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17, 1991 -3- Brownworth said he feels this would be a safe way to t_avel along County Road 4, but there are not any bike trails along Duck 'Lake Trail. Lambert said that there are trails, but it is necessary to cross Duck Lake Trail to reach them. This is an option that could be considered. The Engineering Department has suggested that instead of relying on the county to obtain an accurate cost, the City could go to a bridge consulting firm. As an example, the county estimated the initial cost of a bridge over Hwy. 5 to be $200,000 and this increased to $500,000. Lambert added that there may be a way to tie into the existing bridge. Kuechenmeister asked about the cost for doing the trail segments along County Road which are rated 1 and 2 on the priority list. He also asked which of the top three ranked trail systems provide the least amount of risk to the community and could be re-ranked. Lambert said that if trail construction is over $100,000 , they are ranked lower because of cost alone. He feels that the top two trails are a toss-up as to which one is most important. The trail being considered here has paved shoulder, but has a "death trap" on the bridge. Vanderploeg said that he is not very familiar with the area and would like to take a tour to get a better idea of what it looks like. Lambert recommended that the Commission support the petition, but take a tour of the area before reviewing the 1992 budget requests. Lynch asked how the ranking process wcrns if cost estimates are not accurate. Lambert said that there should be a better cost estimate by that time. Harry asked if ranking is based on the age of the residents and when the neighborhood was established. He said this issue could be delayed indefinitely based on cost alone. There are newer neighborhoods in Eden Prairie that are getting their trails put in much sooner. I � k .APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17, 1991 -4- Lambert said that the City has a ranking system which reviews about 20 different points. Age of a neighborhood is not considered in the ranking. He added that the City has been constructing mostly trails that are within parks and short sections of trails which make connections with other trail systems. He said that even though the Commission may recommend the construction of the trail, he cannot predict how the City Council will react due to budget considerations. MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to recommend that the petition for a trail on the west side of Eden Prairie Road from Duck Lake Trail to Valley View Road be given strong consideration for inclusion in the 1992 budget. Karpinko seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. Lambert said that this issue will be on the City Council consent calendar -tomorrow evening. 1 B. Request_ from Windham Knoll and Hidden Glen Area Residents to Reconsider the Use of W ndham Knoll Park for Athletic_ Association League Play Refer to memo dated June 12, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. Lambert reported that a petition was received from Hidden Glen Subdivision residents regarding the use of Wyndham Knoll Park for athletic association use. Jeff Schuh of the Eden Prairie Baseball Association and Mike Jensen of the Eden Prairie Softball Association were present at the meeting. Lambert said he feels the residents have a legitimate concern, as they have lost some use of their neighborhood park for two months out of the year. The residents are concerned about noise, parking and safety. The park has been used for regular play six nights per week. Usage of the park was not expected to this degree and the park was not designed for this type of usage. ' APPROVED MINUTES j EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES June 17, 1991 -5- Lambert added that the City has two levels of neighborhood parks. Class A parks are parks such as Franlo, Homeward Hills and Hidden Ponds which can accomodate regular play due to the park design and size of parking facilities. Both the baseball and softball associations need to do a better job of scheduling the use of parks they are given and the City needs to decide what level of play will be allowed in the smaller neighborhood parks. Lynn Corriveau of 18839 Broadmoore Dr. said that the park has a soccer and softball field, a totlot and a 20 car parking lot. There are usually 40 cars parked there most of the time. Since there are no parking signs along D-11 Road, cars are parking along the side streets. She said there is no screening between the park and neighboring homes and the residents immediate + concerns are their peace of mind and the safety of their children. Andrea Bez of 18887 Broadmoore Dr. said that she feels safety is the main problem. She is amazed at how much the park is being used and how the neighborhood children are not able to use the park. Glenn Corriveau of 18839 Broadmoore Dr. said that Hidden Ponds Park was not being used tonight and Wyndham Knoll Park has been used for the last three nights. He added that in October of 1987 the residents received a letter from the City saying that the park would be used for scheduled games only occasionally. This was true until last year. He said that there is a safety issue involved and asked how the schedule suddenly changed since last year. Vanderploeg said that there were only 16, 000 people living in Eden Prairie when this neighborhood was developed and the population has more than doubled since that time which explains why the use of Wyndham Knolls Park is necessary. Lambert said that the plan in 1982 was that Miller Park would be used for the youth athletic associations along with Flying Cloud and several of the Class A neighborhood parks. However, the bond referendum for Miller Park was not passed in both 1987 and 1989 and there has been so much growth in the youth athletic programs that many children would have to be turned away if these parks were not used. « ` APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17, 1991 -6- Duane Bez of 18887 Broadmoore Dr. said that if the City allows the athletic association to use the Class B neighborhood parks, the associations will think everything is all right and there is no need for more facilities. He said there might be more of an impact if the use of these parks was not allowed. Richard commented that Lambert was speaking of an ideal plan if Miller Park had been approved and this did not work out. The associations have been giving up things as well. Bez said he feels the use of Wyndham Knoll Park six nights per week by the athletic associations is a lot to ask of the residents when they used it a great deal last year. Mike Jensen said he is responsible for scheduling the softball program, including at Hidden Ponds Park, and he agrees that there is a problem; however, he is scheduling the oldest team at Hidden Ponds and uses it for overflow and practices and games. He added C that the high school team went to the regionals and couldn't practice there until after that, so the overflow that was anticipated has not happened. Other parks are used every night of the week. Jensen said he is responsible for scheduling 13 fields with 48 teams and is willing to work with the City and Baseball Association on this issue. Jensen said that a schedule is worked out in the spring with the other associations and the fields are divided out to determine how many kids can play. Two games per night are scheduled on a field and there are 665 players at this time. He suggests more efficient field scheduling until there is more space available. Vanderploeg asked what communication he has with the I parents. Jensen said he basically works through the coaches to communicate with parents. Vanderploeg suggested that carpooling should be suggested to parents whenever it is possible. ti. irA APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17, 1991 -7- Kuechenmeister asked what more efficient scheduling would do to alleviate overuse of this field. Jensen said the only park that has available space at this time is Hidden Ponds. Lambert said there are also problems with baseball and softball teams sharing a field and the only answer is a compromise between the two associations and the residents. Jeff Schuh of the Eden Prairie Baseball Association said that this group has grown from 750 players to over 1500 with a waiting list. Registration was closed in April. Games are scheduled on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. The 11 year olds were given Thursday evenings, but this has been discontinued. Tuesday night is a makeup night only and of the seven weeks since the season began, there have been four Tuesday nights used for makeup games. Schuh added that all the people attending these games Care parents with young children and, for this reason, he does not understand the speeding and safety issues that were mentioned. He said that the parents already carpool as much as possible and they have not kicked any residents out of the .park during the games. He said he has seen only one couple using the soccer field during the games. Andrea Bez asked how come the field is always used from 5:00 to 9:00 when only one game per night is played. Schuh said that the games run from approximately 6:00 to 9:00. Duane Bez said that most residents want to use the park later in the evening after dinner. Corriveau said she feels parents are in a rush to get their kids to games or practice and that speeding is not intentional. Schuh commented that the boys play only two nights per week, but it is the large number of players that is causing the problem. He said parents have been asked to park only on the park side of Dell Road. i. i 1 - ( ':APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17, 1991 -8- Corriveau said that the park rangers and police have had to ask people to move their cars on several occasions. Lynch asked if there has been a policy regarding the use of Class B parks. Lambert said that the parks are not designed for organized play so it was originally not scheduled until the space was needed. Lynch said she does not feel comfortable making a recommendation on this park without knowing what is going on in other parks. Bez said that other parks have bigger parking lots and are designed differently than Wyndham Knoll Park. Richard asked how soon ahead of time it is known that there will be an empty field. Schuh said that Wyndham Knoll is scheduled only four nights per week. He is ? in control of four fields and the teams are moved between these parks. Schuh added that there are also size problems to be considered and the traveling team schedule is not final until 1-2 weeks before the season starts. Schuh said that the traveling team only involves older kids. Wyndham Knoll and Creekwood are the only parks available for makeup games. Corriveau said she feels Schuh has made a very good point and she understands what the athletic associations are saying, but the neighborhood parks should also be available for the residents to use. She added that i she had to construct a fence in her backyard because of the park. Kuechenmeister said he feels the only way to solve the problem is a compromise until Miller Park is completed. He asked if use at Wyndham Knoll three nights per week would be possible. Schuh said playing at Wyndham Knoll only three nights per week would take away two teams and one day of games and it would be difficult to tell that many kids that ' all of a sudden they can 't play anymore. .r � ♦. 1 APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17 , 1991 -9- Lambert said that there would be no changes made until next year, but he recommends that play be restricted at Wyndham Knoll Park next year. Richard mentioned the concern residents have on the safety issue and asked if a berm could be added between the totlot and the parking lot or an additional set of swings could be put up on the other side of the park. Bez asked about a totlot for younger children based on the number of children in the area. Lambert said before the park was constructed, residents were asked for their input on the type of totlot they would like to have in the park. Corriveau referred to the letter the City sent the residents in 1987 stating that the small neighborhood parks would be used for regular play on an occasional basis. Lambert said the park is not designed for this type of use and that it is being overused at the present time. Staff recommends limiting the use of the park to three nights per week. Jensen said that the growth in the number of softball players has been 34% in the last two years. Corriveau asked why the City has to wait for a bond referendum to build Miller Park. Lambert said that Miller Park is a $3 million project and the entire City budget is $14 million per year. Richard commented that it is his observation that younger kids get bored after playing ball for about an hour. With the shortage of fields, he suggests that the time frame be shortened for these kids and that they start playing earlier in the evening. Schuh said that when both parents work, it is difficult to start games this early. It has been attempted in the past. The league has increased from 14 to 17 teams this year and it is difficult to explain to the taxpayers why a particular field is idle, l APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. a NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17, 1991 -10- MOTION: Lynch moved to recognize that although the parks and open space plan restricts the use of neighborhood parks for regular play, Class B parks need to be used occasionally because of the shortage of fields. The Commission recommends limiting Wyndham Knolls Park to three weekday evenings per week usage in 1992. Karpinko seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. C. Request from Joni Strathy Re: 'frail Outlot on Welters Way Refer to memo dated June 12, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. Lambert said that Joni Strathy was not present at the meeting. This is a 20 ' outlot between homes on Welters Way which was originally going to be an access to Purgatory Creek. The need was eliminated and the City does not recommend construction of trails between homes. Joni is requesting to buy the lot and the other neighbor has shown no interest in doing so. S-saff recommends Cselling the outlot for the cost of administrative and legal fees. MOTION: Karpinko moved to recommend selling the trail outlot on Welters Way to Joni Strathy for the cost of administrative and legal fees. Lynch seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. V. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS I None 171. OLD BUSINESS A. Eurasian Water Milfoil in Eden Prairie Lakes (cont. from June 3, 1991) Refer to memo dated June 12, 1991 from Stu Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources. Stu Fox introduced John Martin who is the water quality t expert from Hennepin Parks. ,;' APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17 , 1991 C. -11- Staff spoke to the DNR about redefining the term "public access" . The DNR will not allow lake access to be restricted either to those coming through a public access any more than to residents on the lake because there are state and federal laws which require this definition to stay the same. EWM was first found on the north bay of Lake Riley and it could have come through the public access , from residents living on the lake, from airplanes landing and taking off on the lake or from the apartment building that has access to the lake. Many property owners on Bryant Lake have private access and EWM was found in these areas. Staff also talked to the DNR about a 24 hour watch - ' on public accesses, but this is not the only place where EWM can come in. Lynch asked Martin for a suggestion on techniques that will prevent EWM from entering the lakes. Martin said that little can be done to prevent the spread of EWM 3 and there are restrictions on manpower and funding to monitor all public accesses. Fragments of EWM can also enter the storm sewer system and remain viable for up to 14 days. He said it is also difficult to check smaller boats for EWM without lifting up the trailer. EWM can also be spread by waterfowl and the only way to prevent it is for the boat owner to take personal responsibility. EWM has been found in 37 states in the United States. There has been some success in British Columbia by using divers to remove the plants and covering the area where it is found. This method costs about $50, 000 per year per lake. Martin said he has also seen the spread of EWM plants with herbicide treatment. The best way is to control it, as chemicals don't work in all lakes. Herbicide treatment has not worked well in Carver Park Lake. Karpinko asked if there is a penalty imposed for boat owners who spread EWM. Martin said this is considered a misdemeanor. f I , tAPPROVED MINUTES C• EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17, 1991 -12- Karpinko suggested having a police officer citing people at the public accesses. Kuechenmeister said getting people to take personal responsibility will take a massive education effort. He asked if there are signs stating that the spread of EWM is a misdemeanor. Martin said that the new signs do specify that the ; spread of EWM is a misdemeanor. He said that there is better success with checking the boats or telling people about it. ry Kuechenmeister said that maybe there needs to be different signs to get the idea across. Vanderploeg asked what type of research is going on for a chemical to kill EWM. Martin said there are a couple different chemicals. 24-D or sonar gives 80-90% control and is currently being tested by the DNR, but it is important to treat the entire lake. �.. Garlon 3A will be tested in Lake Zumbro and is a spot treatment chemical . The best long term solution seems to be the fungus which likes fairly dense growths of EWM. it costs about $300-$400 per acre to apply, but does not impact the root system of the plants. Estimated { cost to treat Lake Minnetonka is $1.2 million per year. Martin said that EWM has cleared out of Chesapeake Bay in the last ten years and lakes in Vermont have been cleared by using the moth larvae. Martin added that EWM has been in Wisconsin lakes for 30 years with no treatment programs. There have been no major problems in the northern part of the state. Lynch said she believes that public education is the way to go and suggests that the City Council close Eden Prairie 's lakes for one day to show people what it would be like to use the use of their lakes. I Lambert said that the DNR would not allow this unless residents on the lake were also restricted. Lynch suggested going to the residents to see if they agree with this approach. f w J ,APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17 , 1991 -13- } Fox distributed copies of information that was discussed at the EWM meeting in January. Kuechenmeister asked if grass carp feed on EWM. Martin said yes, but they feed on this last. Vanderploeg asked if Lake Riley was treated today. Fox said that 15 acres were treated. Vanderploeg asked if the amount of spread of EWM can be predicted over the next several years. Fox said that EWM was found on the west and north shores of w the lake because of the wind and EWM is found in not more than 15 ' of water. Richard asked how the water was treated. Fox said that a granular form of 24-D was used. Martin commented that it take about 7-10 days to see if the treatment worked and if the dosage was correct. If the roots are not killed, it will regrow. Vanderploeg asked who found the original infestation. Fox said that the association found it in Lake Riley. I. Richard said that the Commission authorized the treatment of the lakes at the last meeting and asked if anything else is required at this time. Lambert said no, but that the Commission had requested more information of EWM. Everything possible is being done to control EWM. Lynch asked if information on EWM has been presented at the schools. Lambert said that the City requested that information on EWM be discussed in a required biology class. Kuechenmeister suggested a Eurasian Water Milfoil Day similar to Arbor Day. Lambert said perhaps it could be a Water Management Day. VII. NEW BUSINESS A. HCRRA Rail Corridor, Hopkins to Chaska Refer to memo dated June 12, 1991 from Bob Lambert, ( Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. • � � / Jam. X _ f .APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17, 1991 -14- Lambert met with representatives from neighboring communities to discuss the possible use of the abandoned railroad as a temporary trail corridor. The Commission needs to recommend support of a resolution between the communities requesting the use of the corridor for trail purposes, developing the trail as an aglime surface 8 ' wide, reviewing and coordinating a signage program for the trail in order to be consistent throughout the length of the trail, submitting a budget request for 1992 to construct their portion of the trail and agreeing on the limitations on the types of trail users. Hopkins and Minnetonka have already decided to limit •their trail section to pedestrians and bicyclists. Lambert suggests limiting the trail to pedestrian and bicycle use with initial intent to manage the trail for cross country skiing and consideration of the development of a parallel multi-use trail for snowmobiles and horses after staff has studied the costs of such a trail and the potential for connection to other trails of this type. Kuechenmeister asked how many snowmobilers would use this area. Lambert said the snowmobile club in Eden Prairie has about 18 residents, but the problem is that people from other areas will come to Eden Prairie and not be aware of the rules on snowmobiling. Richard said he finds it difficult to believe that there could be a snowmobile trail located here. MOTION: Kuechenmeister moved to recommend support of the resolution per staff recommendation. Lynch seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. B. Resolution No. 91-137 State Grant-in-Aid Snowmobile Trail Lambert said the Commission has approved this resolution for many years. The resolution enables the snowmobilers to get property owners approval and assistance from the state. MOTION: Lynch moved to recommend approval of Resolution No. 91-137 per staff recommendation. Vanderploeg seconded the motion and it passed 5-0. i �. APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. a NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17, 1991 -15- VIII. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF A. Red Rock Lake Trail Refer to memo dated June 12, 1991 from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks , Recreation and Natural Resources. Lambert said that the City Council requested a status report on this trail. Their question was why the trail was not being maintained and why there was not a connection. The reason is that the trail was not accepted the way it was constructed and the connection was not recommended four years ago because it would go between homes. In addition, the developer was not required to construct the trail prior to allowing building permits for the four lots. lit The only possibility is to construct a floating boardwalk trail to make the conneciton to the north and south at a cost of approximately $41, 000. r: Richard asked if the trail will be used. Lambert said the trail will provide access to Round Lake. He added that this trail is fifth on the park trails priority list. MOTION: Vanderploeg moved to recommend approval of Red Rock Lake Trail per staff recommendation. Kuechenmeister seconded the motion and it passed 5- 0. 2. Report on Meeting Re: Goose and Wildlife Management Lynch reported that Vanderploeg, Bowman, Kuechenmeister and she met on June 8 to discuss a goose and wildlife management plan for the City of Eden Prairie. Bowman is putting together a general policy statement which will focus on the goose issue. Kuechenmeister is developing a complaint sheet for residents and screening criteria. Lynch will call other cities about their wildlife management issues. Vanderploeg is putting together an information sheet on geese. APPRIVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17 , 1991 -16- B. Reports of Manager of Recreation Services 1. Summer Arts Camp 2. 1991 Farewell to Graffiti Bridge 3. Citation Award 1 4. Bike Social These are information items only. 5. Request from Historical and Cultural Commission to Sell Graffiti Bridge Souvenir Time Capsules at the 1991 4th of July Celebration Lambert said the only concern is the liability issue of the lead based paint. Kuechenmeister asked if it is legal to sell this type of product when it contains lead. Lambert will check on this point. After discussion, the Commission felt that this was not a parks and recreation issue, but they did express their concern over the liability of the lead based paint. C. Reports of Community Center Operations Manager 1. Summer Open Hockey I 2. Summer Daytime Ice Rental - June 1 to August 30 These are information items only. IX. REPORTS OF CITY COUNCIL A. City Manager 's Update - June 7 , 1991 This is an information item only, i 3 _. . T 40. APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, REC. & NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. June 17, 1991 -17- X. ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Karpinko moved to adjourn the meeting at 10 :45 p.m. Richard seconded the motion and it passed 5-0 . Respectfully submitted, Lois Boettcher Recording Secretary C i 1, •,,. .. .. ,. ,.. ,,1., ;; -: ;r r• -. - .t is ..'r;�., -s.n+'