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HomeMy WebLinkAboutParks and Recreation - 03/20/1995 y p t . •• a. �s..v_ .J.!_' t.:h:1 yt ...e�._� 4. �..NNi "\_ 1 A 1995 MARCH 6 20 MINUTES CITY OF EDEN PRA IRIE AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 6, 1995 7:00 P. M. CITY CENTER 8080 MITCHELL ROAD COUNCIL CHAMBERS COMMISSION MEMBERS: Claire Hilgeman, Chair; Bruce Bowman, Richard Brown, Don Jacobson, Vicki Koenig, David Kracum, Joanne Kube-Harderwijk STUDENT MEMBER: Mark Bremer, Brian Mustanski COMMISSION STAFF: Robert A. Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources; Stuart A. Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources; Laurie Helling, Manager of Recreation Services I. ROLL CALL - Introduction of New Member Don Jacobson II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - FEBRUARY 6, 1995 IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. None V. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS A. Bryant Pointe Two B. Bearuath Clubhouse C. American Lutheran Church 2nd Addition D. Bluffs East 16th VI. OLD BUSINESS A. None VII. NEW BUSINESS A. Recommendation to Name Newly Acquired Conservation Sites B. Umiated Five Year CIP C. Request Authorization to Prepare Pans and Specifications and Obtain Bids for Dehumidification System for Rink #1 at Community Center k VIU. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF A. Reports of Manager of Parks. Recreation and Facilities 1. Open Meeting Law Information IX. ADJOURNMENT parkag/Bob -6 I i i 1, _ C APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 6, 1995 7:00 P.M. CITY CENTER 8080 MITCHELL ROAD COUNCIL CHAMBER COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Claire Hilgeman, Chair; Richard Brown, Don Jacobson, Vicki Koenig, Joanne Kube-Harderwijk COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: Bruce Bowman, David Kracum COMMISSION STAFF: Robert A. Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources; Barbara Penning Cross, Landscape Architect; Stuart A. Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources; Laurie Helling, Manager of Recreation Services STUDENT MEMBERS: Mark Bremer, Brian Mustanski I. ROLL CALL - Introduction of New Member Don Jacobson The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by Chair, Claire Hilgeman. Hilgeman introduced new member Don Jacobson to everyone present, and . welcomed him to the Commission. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION: Kube-Harderwijk moved to approve the agenda as published. Koenig seconded the motion and it passed 5-0-0. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - FEBRUARY 6, 1995 MOTION: Brown moved to approve the Minutes of February 6, 1995 as published. Kube-Harderwijk seconded the motion and it passed 5-0-0. IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. NONE V. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS A. Bryant Pointe Two C. Staff referred the Commission to a memo dated February 27, 1995, from Stuart A. Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources, and a Staff 1 C Report dated February 10, 1995, from Scott A. Kipp, Planner. I ` Fox reviewed the project with the Commission. He noted that the proposed development is to divide the site into two single family lots, one 20,000 and one 23,000 square feet. There are two significant trees on the site. After the report was written, Staff learned from a former landowner that those trees were planted in the late 1950's. It raises the question of whether or not the City would require replacement because they do not consider planted landscape eligible for tree preservation or tree replacement. This was reviewed by the Planning Commission on February 13, 1995 and received a unanimous recommendation. Brown expressed concern about the tree replacement of 64 caliber inches. Fox replied that when people plant trees in their yards and they manicure the landscape, the City does not consider those as natural trees when they have to be removed as part of a development. They are sitting on a side embankment totally surrounded by brush and it doesn't look like a man- made planting. The City could look at a compromise but Staff's recommendation is to replace the 64 caliper inches. MOTION; Kube-Harderwijk moved to approve the recommendation of Staff's memo dated February 27, 1995 with the provision that they do replace the 64 caliber inches of trees on that property. Koenig seconded the motion and it passed 5-0-0. B. Beargath Clubhouse Staff referred the Commission to a memo dated February 27, 1995, from Stuart A. Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources; and a Staff Report dated, February 10, 1995, from Michael D. Franzen, City Planner. Fox reviewed the project with the Commission. He noted that this was part of the original 1992 Bearpath PUD. The proposed development is on 10 acres centrally located within the original 435 acres. It will serve as the hub for the golf course and sits right behind the gate house in terms of location. The development issues that were included in this were to take a look at tree preservation, wetland impact, and sidewalks and trails. John Vogelbacher, representing the proponent, reviewed his development proposal with the Commission. He noted that the clubhouse plans consist of six tennis courts, and two buildings with one being a pool facility, and the other one for tennis, a pro shop and a changing area. There is a 25 j meter Olympic meter pool, and a small toddler pool. There are 210 parking spaces and nine handicapped spaces. There is approximately ( 35,000 square feet of usable area in the two level building with handicap accessibility. The building consists of three main dining rooms with a 2 .. .. r banquet facility that can handle up to 300 people. He noted that they made provisions based on Staff's recommendation of tree preservation and lowered the tree lost�'calculation. Jacobson expressed concern about no trees on the south side of the parking lot. Vogelbacher replied that the area immediately south of the parking lot generally was an a driving range and before that agricultural farm land. Hilgeman expressed concern about the types of trees being removed and what they will be replaced with. Fox replied that the area is a mixture of oaks and basswood. The replacement includes sugar maple, red maple, ash, Black Hill spruce, Scotch pine and Colorado spruce. Hilgeman asked if there are more conifers than deciduous. Fox replied that it's a fairly equal mix. Koenig expressed concern about the protection of the remaining trees. Vogelbacher replied that there will be a center line staking for the various site development aspects, and they fenced off all the areas that will remain undisturbed. Brown expressed concern about the need for a future expansion of the parking lot. Vogelbacher replied that they have set up some overflow parking areas, and have designed the main road 32 feet wide which can accommodate more parking during a special event. He noted that they do not see a need for additional parking in the future. Fox noted that the way the parking was figured on this particular site was six spaces per 1000 square feet, which is what they use for restaurants. The recommendation was to go to the high end of the requirement to accommodate a banquet facility. MOTION: Brown moved to accept the Staff Report and approve the � Bearpath Clubhouse addition. Kube-Harderwijk accepted the motion and j it passed 5-0-0. i Vogelbacher gave a brief update of his project. He noted that they are currently about 70% completed with the site, and will probably be in excess of 70% to 80% more trees than required in the developer's agreement when this project is completed. Hilgeman expressed concern about not knowing what variety of trees will be going in by the tennis courts and other areas like that. Vogelbacher replied that he does not specifically know what types of trees will go in C by the tennis courts. He noted that the clubhouse area will have a mixture of evergreens and shade trees. 3 Hilgeman expressed concern about replacing the trees that are not C indigenous to the site. Vogelbacher replied that they are doing this to help the bog that is adjacent to their site, and they are supplementing it with spruces which will help the acidity level. C. American Lutheran Church 2nd Addition Staff was referred to a memo dated February 28, 1995, from Stuart A. Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources, and a Staff Report dated February 24, 1995, from Donald R. Uram, Economic Development Manager, and Jeff Johnson, Senior Engineering Technician. Fox reviewed the project with the Commission. He noted that this is a request for development of the lot adjacent to the American Lutheran Church. It would be done in a combination with a piece of tax forfeited land that's currently being held by the State Land Department. The proposal is for development of 13 single family lots and three outlots. One outlot would be for a NURP pond. The other outlot would incorporate an area for an additional parking lot for the church. He noted t that this was reviewed by the Planning Commission on February 13, 1995. 1 Beth Simonsted, Hustad Land Company, 11000 West 78th Street, Creviewed her development proposal with the Commission. She said that these lots are very comparable to the surrounding subdivisions in the area. ` She noted that the main issue has been the location of the NURP pond. The City has been hopeful that the pond will serve as a regional pond including the additional 25 acre Watershed surrounding the area. They will be grading the entire site so they will be redirecting existing drainage of the church site into the storm system they propose, and catch it with a catch basin. She noted that they have modified their original tree loss calculation of 42% or 125 caliber inches, down to 27% tree loss. There are 14 significant trees on the site. They have exceeded their tree replacement requirements on the last three projects they have done, and hope to do so on this project. Koenig expressed concern about the grading being sloped rather than flat i land. Fox noted that the reason for the mass grading is that most of these homes have walkout basements. ' Hilgeman questioned if this was the site that Staff did an aerial view of. Fox replied that it is the site and he showed the area on the map. Brown expressed concern about the size of the NURP pond not being large due to additional runoff that will occur when the trees are gone, and when the new parking area is paved. Fox replied that it's a place to channel rapid runoff off of hard surfaces, off driveways, off roofs, and it 4 , goes into the NURP pond. Through the process of holding it, the solids settle out of it. This particular NURP pond is no different than any other one. The size of this pond would be as deep as 10 to 12 feet before it falls out, and is calculated to take care of the entire site plus the adjacent site. Koenig asked if most of the trees are going to come out where the pond is going in. Fox replied that the trees are scattered throughout this site. Hilgeman questioned whether or not there has to be screening from the NURP pond by Pioneer Trail. Fox replied that there does not have to be screening. Koenig expressed concern about the tree replacement calculations. Fox noted that the amended plan is to save trees #10, #11, #12, and V. He was out last week and has not had a chance to recalculate it. Simonsted commented that they are figuring on 27% tree loss, and are going to try to save tree V. MOTION: Jacobson moved to accept Staffs recommendations for the American Lutheran Church 2nd Addition. Kube-Harderwijk seconded the motion and it passed 5-0-0. D. Bluffs East 16th Staff referred the Commission to a memo dated February 28, 1995, from Stuart A. Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources, and a Staff Report, dated February 24, 1995, from Michael D. Franzen, City Planner. Fox reviewed the project with the Commission. He noted that this project has been looked at by the Staff and neighbors, and there have been a number of compromises such as the building face materials. The original i tree loss calculation was 50%, but with the recommendation by Staff to remove one lot and to change one of the building pad locations, the tree loss dropped down to 32%. Staff noted that there is a large amount of undergrowth consisting of honeysuckle shrubs and regeneration growth of red oak trees. As a result of this regeneration growth and other vegetation, the site when viewed appears to have a very dense consistency of woodlands. Residents to the south stated that they are concerned about the removal of the natural vegetation adjacent to their homes for the construction of a building, as well as storm sewer force main. `s Neighbors are concerned about the roadway proposed to service the pond on this site. The Engineering Department is recommending this pond 5 . - .• , 21 JL LSt have an exit point, and the only way to do it is pump it up and out into the existing storm sewer along Frontage Road. There is a lot of grading and retaining walls and these will be reviewed by the Building Department, and the builders must meet City standards. Storm water treatment might be a need for a secondary NURP pond. The decision has been made that the existing pond would indeed serve as the NURP pond for the entire area, and there would not be a need for a new pond. Simonsted reviewed her development proposal with the Commission. She noted that they have agreed with the neighbors to plant 18 12-16 foot conifer trees along the southwest corner of the property line of this project. They have cut their tree loss down to 32%. The project compares consistent with the two surrounding projects, Bluffs East 6th and 7th Addition. The architecture, the size of the building, and the materials are similar, if not the same, as the ones in the Bluffs 7th Addition project. Jacobson asked where the pumping station would be. Fox replied that the pumping station would come off the south easterly corner. He noted that the drawings that the Commission has are not the current ones. At the Planning Commission meeting on February 13th, changes were made and the recommendation was to put a three unit building there instead of two twin units. As a result of this change, there is a significant amount of trees being saved. The pumping station was put at the very south end because the elevations are more favorable for maintenance. Koening expressed concern about what erosion control measures will be used on the steep slopes. Simonsted noted that the City is going to direct them as to their requirements. Koenig recommended using hay bales. Fox commented that the recommendation must come from the Purgatory Creek Watershed District. Kube-Harderwijk asked if the City or the Homeowners Association is going to own the outlot. Simonsted replied that she believes the City will eventually own it. The pumping will be installed and paid for by the developer, and it is typical practice that the City maintains the pump. Kube-Harderwijk asked if there should be any sort of conservancy easement on this if it isn't owned by the City. Lambert replied that he recommends that there be a conservancy easement on this outlot whether or not the City owns it. Brown expressed concern about the density being very high. Lambert noted that the guide plan allows this. He said that this is not the highest density that it would be at that point. 6 Hilgeman expressed concern about the tree replacement is not the same Cas the significant trees that were taken down. Simonsted noted that they have planted ash, sugar maple, Norway maple and pine oaks because they have to think about the soils and what grows the best. She noted that what survives in these sandy soils are sugar maples. Hilgeman commented that since red oaks and cotton woods were growing for a long time, the soils would be fine with it. Simonsted noted that cotton wood has not been a tree that people typically want in their yards. Fox noted that in all the parks they always plant a diversity of trees to keep a healthy mix of trees for disease and insect concerns. This also adds more color to the landscape. MOTION: Kube-Harderwijk moved to approve the recommendations of the Staff Report dated February 28, 1995, with a conservancy easement on outlot A, and any other areas within the lots that are deemed savable and reasonable, and as much erosion control as reasonable per conservancy easement planting for it. Brown seconded the motion and it passed 5-0-0. i VI. OLD BUSINESS A. None. VU. NEW BUSINESS A. Recommendgtion to Name Newly Acquired Conservation Sites Staff referred the Commission to a memo dated February 27, 1995, from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities. i Lambert noted that the City has acquired all or part of three new conservancy sites, and the City is making new maps. Staff would recommend naming the site acquired from the Klein family and Darril Peterson as, the Richard T. Anderson Conservation Area. All of the features of this site were extremely precious to Dick Anderson, and this was a project that he strongly endorsed. Staff believes that Dick Anderson established such a continuous and consistent effort to protect Eden Prairie's resources that naming a conservation area in his honor would be a very good precedent. Staff would also recommend naming the land acquired from Kathy Trost and from Peter George in the near future, the Riley Creek Woods Conservation Area. They would also recommend naming the 55 acres native prairie and oak savannah site acquired from Lynn Charlson, the j 7 Prairie Bluff Conservation Area. These two sites would be named after their natural features as an identifying feature as done in the past. Koenig noted that she thinks it's a wonderful idea of honoring Dick Anderson in this manner. She said she supports it 100% and is not concerned about setting a precedent. She also noted that it's a small thing for the City to give back to him for everything that he did for this community. Jacobson expressed concern about the Riley Creek Woods name. Lambert noted that it's the Riley Creek Woods Conservation Area. There was a mistake on the memo. Kube-Harderwijk commented that she has concerns about naming places after people, but in this case she feels it is a good idea. Hilgeman noted that she is not pleased with the Prairie Bluff Conservation name because it's boring. Jacobson recommended a dedication for the site named after Dick Anderson. ! Lambert noted that he would be recommending a ceremony for the 0.� opening of that park sometime in the future. He commented that they have $400.00 in a fund that people have donated to the City under Dick Anderson's name. He would like to use it for developing an appropriate plaque describing Dick's contributions at the entry where you would park your car. MOTION: Koenig moved to approve naming of the new acquired parcels per the Staff Report of February 27, 1995. Kube-Harderwijk seconded the motion and it passed 5-0-0. B. Updated Five Year CIP Staff referred the Commission to a memo dated February 10, 1995, from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation & Facilities. Lambert noted that the City has a five year capital improvement plan that they update on an annual basis. It is unrecognizable from year to year because things change so much. This is a guide for Commission members, Council members, and the public, to understand how much j money the City has, what they're doing with it, what they anticipate will be coming in over the next five years, what they anticipate doing with it, and what their priorities are for spending. Attached is a list of five year CIP projects that are not included on the 8 ... " '.; .... ..r '.. (.. list. However, Staff expects that some of these expenditures will come up before the five years are up. He noted that the estimates on the cost of some of the projects are really his own personal estimates. Brown asked what the asterisk means. Lambert replied that at the bottom of the whole thing your will see a single asterisk means referendum required for funding, and it explains everything. Koenig asked what a revenue bond is. Lambert replied that it's a bond that is sold, and does not require a vote of the people. The City Council can only do it on a facility that's going to generate revenue to pay off the bond. MOTION: Brown moved to accept Staff's recommendation. Koenig seconded the motion and it passed 5-0-0. C. Request Authorization to Prepare Plans And SUMifications and Obtain Bids for Dehumidification System for Rink #1 at Community Center Staff referred the Commission to a memo dated February 27, 1995, from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation & Facilities, and a memo dated January 12, 1995, from Dave Black, Community Center Operations Supervisor. Lambert noted the City has had fog problems on rink #1 for many years during the spring, summer and fall when the heat and humidity exceed 85 degrees. Each year the City has had to cancel ice time in that facility due to fog problems. The City has the option of renting a portable humidifier for $10,000 each year, or installing the system recommended by Staff costing $64,000. Staff would recommend that they spend gash parks fees to purchase it. Staff would also recommend that the City reimburse the cash park fees through the general funds over the next three years. He commented that it's a bad precedent to start tapping cash park fees to put in a maintenance product. Jacobson noted that the arithmetic is wrong in the memo. Lambert replied that the total cost should be $64,000, and the memo is wrong. I Jacobson expressed concern that from his experience, $600.00 is not enough for contingency on a project this size. Lambert replied that this is an estimate and he would not have real numbers until they have a design from the architect. CMOTION: Brown moved to accept the recommendation of a dehumidifier system for the Community Center. . Koenig seconded the 9 . .. . ... ... i... :_. .....:-.:....r... .' : t ii-••.: .: `.::1. _ :::: i.:';,�?ct_ .--_. ,a„ �....•. r:. '�'Y..D.... .�,.1.4r:,..�y.o. �- motion and it passed 5-0-0. VHI. REPORTS OF COMMISSIQNERS AND STAFF A. Reports of Idanaga of Parkso Recreation and Facilities 1. Open Meeting Law Information Lambert noted that no action is required, but whenever they receive information that effects the Commission, they include it in the packets for their information. IX. ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Jacobson moved to adjourn. Kube-Harderwijk seconded the motion and it passed 5-0-0. The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Elinda Bahley, Recording Secretary i C i I - 10 N r. AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 20, 1995 7:00 P. M. CITY CENTER 8080 MITCHELL ROAD COUNCIL CHAMBERS COMMISSION MEMBERS: Claire Hilgeman, Chair; Bruce Bowman, Richard Brown, Don Jacobson, Vicki Koenig, David Kracum, Joanne Kube-Harderwijk STUDENT MEMBER: Mark Bremer, Brian Mustanski COMMISSION STAFF: Robert A. Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources; Stuart A. Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources; Laurie Helling, Manager of Recreation Services I. ROLL CALL „f II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA III. APPROVAL OF MI 1TES - MARCH 6. 1995 IV. PETITIONS_ REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Letter from Eden Prairie Soccer Association President V. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS A. High Point B. Boulder Ride VI. OLD BUSINESS A. None VII. NEW BUSINESS A. None VIII. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF i A. Reports of Director of Parks Recreation and Facilities 1. Phili n Hill Acq,i ition 2. Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan IX. ADJOURNMENT APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION I MONDAY, MARCH 20, 1995 7:00 P.M. CITY CENTER 8080 MITCHELL ROAD COUNCIL CHAMBER COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Claire Hilgeman, Chair; Bruce Bowman, Richard Brown, Don Jacobson, Vicki Koenig, David Kracum, Joanne Kube-Harderwijk COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: None COMMISSION STAFF: Robert A. Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources; Barbara Penning Cross, Landscape Architect; Stuart A. Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources; Laurie Helling, Manager of Recreation Services. STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES Mark Bremer, Brian Mustanski I. ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order at 7:05 P.M. by Chair, Claire Hilgeman. All members were present. H. APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION: Koenig moved to approve the agenda as amended: under Reports of Commissioners, item B, Wetland Mitigation; under Reports of Commissioners, item 2, brief discussion on what exactly the Board is allowed to comment on regarding development proposals. Kube-Harderwijk seconded the motion and it passed 7-0-0. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES --MARCH 6. 1995 MOTION: Koenig moved to approve the Minutes of March 6, 1995 as corrected: page 4, first paragraph, change deciduous to indigenous; at the end of the paragraph, ...spruces which will help the runoff, change runoff to acidity level; page 8, fourth paragraph, omit the Riley Creek Woods Conservation Area; page 7, first paragraph, last sentence should read: she noted that what survives in these sandy soils are sugar maples; page 7, the last sentence should read, Prairie Bluff Conservation Area. Kube-Harderwijk seconded the motion and it passed 5-0-2 with abstentions by Bowman and Kracum. { IV. PETITIONS REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS 1 A. Letter from Eden Prairie Soccer Association President Staff referred the Commission to a letter dated February 28, 1995, from Ken Bomben, Eden Prairie Soccer Association President. Lambert noted that the letter sent to the Staff referred to a plan to start on April 24th. Staff is sending a letter back to respond that at the meeting with representatives from the Soccer Association, it was agreed to not start before May 1st. Staff wishes to hold to that for all the reasons discussed at that meeting. The City can not commit to having the fields ready before May 1st. Fox noted that at the meeting in November, the recommendation was to try and start a little later so they don't get into the spring crunch. They also discussed a staggered season. Hilgeman asked if anyone has staggered their season. Fox replied that they are waiting to see if anyone is waiting to do that. Lambert noted that baseball and softball associations started staggering their season for kindergarten age. Jacobson commented that the reason the Soccer Association picked that starting date is because Mr. Fox said it would be no problem at the November meeting. He said they would have settled on another date if they knew it would be a problem. Fox noted that he said they could start practice that week, but could not have everything set up for the games. Brown expressed concern about the availability of parking. Fox stated that they gave the Soccer Association the option of using it every night. Their own use will be Monday through Thursday, and Saturday, and they still have Friday and Sunday to use for scheduling their rain out games. Bowman expressed concern about the parking situation and the safety of the traffic flow as a result of allowing more kids on the teams. i V. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS A. High Point Staff referred the Commission to a memo dated March 16, 1995, from Stuart A. Fox, Manager of Parks and Natural Resources; and a Staff Report dated March 10, 1995, from Michael D. Franzen, City Planner. 2 Fox reviewed the project with the Commission. He noted that the new name of High Point is the Sutton Addition. This is a parcel of land south of the Senior Center. It's 4.9 acres in size. The proponent is asking to subdivide this into 16 multi family units or eight unit twinhomes. Richard Krier, of Builtwell Construction, reviewed his development proposal with the Commission. He discussed the drainage plan, the Senior Center access and the tree loss. Brown expressed concern about the seniors and the construction crew using the same access. Krier replied that they will build a temporary access just for trucks. Fox noted that Staff has a number of concerns and they will be addressed in the developer's agreement. He said there will have to be some careful monitoring of this situation because the Senior Center is a very busy place. What the City will gain out of this is a piece of property that has a public road on it, and it would be built to the standards that are required. Brown asked if Staff has contacted the Senior Center to get their views on this. Fox replied that a set of plans were sent to the Senior Center for posting so people can review it. Staff has not received any comments or questions. Krier explained that what they are proposing is that the joint access of the Senior Center driveway would only be for the people who live here until the road is built. They are proposing bringing the construction traffic down to the southern end. Koenig asked for an update on the NURP pond request relating to park property. Fox replied that the NURP pond on this site was expanding in size to accommodate future development of the property to the south. They had originally had an additional NURP pond in the south easterly corner of the site. Staff is trying to work out an agreement whereby part of the piping of this would be accommodated as part of this development, and the City would have to pick up part of the piping to carry their overflow northward to the pond located in Pioneer Park, This would have to be worked out in the developer's agreement. Kube-Harderwijk questioned what type of development is expected on the south side of this site. Krier replied that they don't have any control of that property. They have been requested by the City to give the Marshall property an easement. Bowman expressed concern about this proposal being made before the NURP pond solution has been established. 3 1 Lambert noted that the park was never designed to accommodate the amount of overflow that would be coming from these two properties. Staff feels they would have some erosion problems and some drainage problems until it's piped through the park property, and through the southern half of the property, until it gets into the natural drainage corridor. Bowman asked if it is in the interest of this Commission to know the details of it. Lambert replied that this Commission should know what it's going to cost. The City Council will have the final approval on the price. If there's going to be significant cost to the Parks Department, staff will bring it back to the Commission. qr Krier reviewed the NURP pond and the drainage on the map. Bowman asked if this NURP pond and pipe are going to handle storm runoff when the Marshall property has been developed. Krier replied that it's designed for this. Bowman expressed concern about the money coming out of cash park fees. Hilgeman commented that she is not concerned about the amount of money they might have to spend. The City Council will review this and if they don't feel it's an appropriate amount of money, they would say something about it. She noted that the City will have to pay money anyway to fix some of it. Brown expressed concern about having twinhomes near the single family homes. He is also concerned about the runoff and the density, and does not like the idea that they are continually asked to approve increased density. Krier noted that they are way under what the zoning requirements are. He said that part of the rationale from the Planning Department is that this does make a good transition from the institutional, which has a very high traffic volume, and the single family homes. These townhomes are going to sell for more than the single family homes, about $100,000 more per unit. They will range in price from $225,000 to $280,000 per unit. Bowman commented that the twinhomes will produce traffic. Krier replied that it does not create more traffic, that it's considerably less. Hilgeman asked if the significant number of trees that are on the site now will help the runoff. Lambert replied that the net runoff will still be more that what it is now. 4 Kracum noted that there has been some blending of townhomes and single family homes that have been successful. He is satisfied that this site can handle it. MOTION: Bowman moved to approve the Planning Commission project based on Staff's approval of a plan for piping runoff from the NURP pond across the City park without undue financial impact upon the Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources budget. Koenig seconded the motion and it passed 6-0-1 with opposition by Brown. B. Boulder Rid= Staff referred the Commission to a memo dated March 16, 1995, from Stuart A. Fox, Manager of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources; and a Staff Report dated March 10, 1995, from Michael D. Franzen, City Planner. Fox reviewed the project with the Commission. He noted that this is a 26 acre parcel of land. This site is south of the City Center along Mitchell Road. Perry Ryan, developer, reviewed his development proposal with the Commission. He commented that the development is planned for 25 single family homes on the north side of the project, and 11 twinhomes on the south side. Boulder Pointe Road will be an extension from the Boulder Pointe development through the single family units. He said that Cumberland Road is offset and that's why it is not lined up. Boulder Place will be a private road accessing the drainage on this property generally to the south into the main wetland within the property. The proposed landscaping is a combination of deciduous trees and they are exceeding the recommendation of 82 caliber inches to about 300 caliber inches. They are revising plans for the conservancy easement and will be going back to the Planning Commission with them. They have revised the setback issue and are redesigning the NURP pond. They will be resubmitted with the new grading plan to the Planning Commission. Fox noted that tree loss has been cut down to 21% versus 56% originally. It was established by removing some twinhome units and increasing the lot sizes on the northerly side. There is a NURP pond on the north side of Mitchell Road which is designed to provide for the runoff. Regarding sidewalks and trails, Staff wants to make sure that the sidewalk that is currently along Boulder Road is contiguous. Julia Larson. 8705 Mitchell Road commented that they were out of town when the first neighborhood meeting was held. Her property is located east of and adjacent to the triangular piece of property located east of Mitchell Road, which she understands is to be designated as a park 5 _ wetland. She expressed concern that there are no plans to keep the property clear of weeds. When the weeds are high the deer do not come around. She is also concerned about the location north of her property along Cumberland Road not being maintained, and about ribbons out on some of the trees on her property. Fox noted that the area in question on the map has a dashed line indicated, and that's the floodplain line for McCoy Lake. The area is currently being maintained by the owner as a gesture of good will. Regarding the tree issue, there are some surveying ribbons out there, but it was possibly part of tree surveys. None of the trees are going to be cut down. It is not Staff's recommendation to have any trees cut down on that property if it's dedicated to the City. Hilgeman asked if they are planning a City park or just a conservancy area for that outlot. Fox replied just a conservancy area. ry Hilgeman asked if the City is planning some wetland type plantings for this. Fox replied that there is existing wetland plantings that are present. It would just be marsh grass there. Koenig commented that if the Planning Commission is going to look at this again, why should they make a decision. Ryan replied that they just want to see that those changes are made. They are not reviewing anything else. Brown asked if there is any agreement with the builder that they are going to maintain the steep bank along Cumberland Road. Fox explained that the site was supposed to be designed in a low maintenance or maintenance free type of mode. It certainly has not been that way, and the Streets Department should take a look at it. i Koenig asked for a clarification of the grading plan. Fox replied that it would be similar to the Kingston Ridge site which is right along the westerly side of Starring Lake Drive along Mitchell Road. i Hilgeman asked what type of trees they are using for replacement. Ryan replied deciduous and conifers, namely conifers 3:1. Hilgeman asked what trees are being removed. Ryan responded that the majority of them are oak and maybe a scattered ash or two. Hilgeman asked if it's unreasonable to suggest that at least 50% of the trees they replace are also oak to keep the site looking more like it was before it was developed. Fox said it was an appropriate request and Staff could work with the developer, and suggested to cluster oaks in there. 6 l r Lambert explained, in response to Mrs. Larson, that this park would really be a conservancy area. The City has about 2,000 acres of land that the City owns. Of that 2,000 acres, there are about 700 acres that are actually mowed. The rest is left in its natural condition, and Staff is encouraging to leave this land that way, which means they don't mow it or maintain it. Bowman asked who will be responsible for it when there are complaints. Lambert replied that they will be calling his department and they will inspect it. Koenig suggested putting in markers to designate lot lines. Lambert replied they can add to the Staff Report to have markers on the lots so that people can identify where the conservancy easement is. Koenig said she would like markers for the wetlands also. Lambert noted that it's not a legal requirement, but it is something the City is recommending. Bremer commented that he feels a need to maintain outlot B because if you are down in there, you would want to walk in this area. He said it makes sense to meet the people's need, and would like to know what ! burden it would have on the City. Lambert replied that it's expensive for 4 . the City to go out and mow this. He thinks it's a mistake to go out and commit to start mowing natural areas because it would be a long term precedent. You will not be able to please everyone because some will want it maintained, and others will want it to remain natural. MOTION: Hilgeman moved to approve the Boulder Ridge PUD Development proposal as per the Staff Report of March 10, 1995, with the following two recommendations by the Commission: 1) there be visible markers denoting conservancy areas; and 2) that a certain number of trees be replaced with deciduous trees, in particular, oak. Brown seconded the motion and it passed 7-0-0. VI. OLD BUSINESS A. None i VII. NEW BUSINESS A. None VIII. REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS AND STAFF A. Reports of Director of Parks. Recreation and Facilities 7 // 1. Phillip Hill A isition 1, Staff referred the Commission to a memo dated March 9, 1995, from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities. Lambert noted that the City has not decided whether they are going to a appeal this or not. 2. Hennepin County Bicycle Transportation Plan Staff referred the Commission to a memo dated March 14, 1995, from Bob Lambert, Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities. Lambert noted that this is an FYI that he wanted the Commission to review. Brown noted that he is going to start attending some of those meetings. He asked if the City has a bicycle transportation representative in the City, or someone working with Hennepin County now. Lambert replied that the City's Engineering Department works with Hennepin County on all those road projects and trail projects. (� They come to this department and work with the Parks' Planner. B. Wetland Mitigation Koenig commented that she would like an update on the wetland mitigation. Lambert noted that there is some wetland mitigation being discussed with Southwest Metro and with the State of Minnesota on Technology Drive. Because both of those proposals are infringing on the wetland, they have to do mitigation two for one. One of their options on mitigation is to go out in Carver County and buy wetlands. They can just plug up a drainage ditch and create wetlands that would meet the State's standards. Koenig asked for information about having a sub-commmittee. Lambert stated that they have not done anything on the Wetland Committee because the State law is being challenged in court now and he believes it likely that the law will continue to change over the next couple of years. C. Discussion On What Comments the Board is Allowed to Make Regarding Development Proposals, 8 Lambert explained that the Commission is to be concerned with parks, wetlands, tree issues, bicycle trails, and how those things are impacted by various proposals. The Parks Commission is supposed to be making recommendations to the City Council relating to certain parts of a development: significant grading,removal of significant vegetation, impact on wetlands, erosion problems, plus dedication, trail connections, etc. He stated that high density can be a concern if the density has caused excessive runoff that has not been properly addressed in an appropriate drainage plan. IX. ADJOI MMENT MOTION: Kracum moved to adjourn. Bowman seconded the motion and it passed 7-0-0. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Elinda Bahley, Recording Secretary I I I 9