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HomeMy WebLinkAboutParks and Recreation - 07/18/1979 i 1979 JULY 2 , 16 .5 18 MINUTES CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE i AGENDA i EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, JULY 2, 1979 7:30 P.M. , CITY HALL COMMISSION MEMBERS: Richard Anderson, Chairperson; David Anderson, Steve Fifield, Robert Johnson, Robert Kruell, George Tangen COMMISSION STAFF: Robert A. Lambert, Director of Community Services Approx. Time to Begin Item 7:30 I. ROLL CALL II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA III. MINUTES OF JUNE 18, 1979 IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS 7:40 A. Petition from Residents in Prairie East 2nd Addition 7:55 B. Bob Carlson's Resignation V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS A. Reports of Commissioners None B. Reports of Staff 8:00 1. Old Farm Addition Development Proposal 8:20 2. Summer Registration Recap - Werts 8:35 3. Removal of House at 8608 Co. Rd. 18 -� Anderson Lakes Park VI. OLD BUSINESS 8:45 A. Vo-Tech Lease - Stables VII. NEW BUSINESS 9:00 A. MAC/Hiking Trail Easement in Staring Lake Park 9:10 B. Request for Appraisal of Parcel #1 - Bryant Lake Park �� 9:25 VIII. ADJOURNMENT T r i APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Monday, July 2, 1979 7:30 P.M. , City Hall COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: David Anderson, Steve Fifield, Robert Kruell, George Tangen, Vice-chairperson COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: Richard Anderson, Robert Johnson COMMISSION STAFF PRESENT: Robert Lambert, Director of Community Services OTHERS PRESENT: Don Peterson, Gene Jereczek, Al Dybiec, E.P. Sun I. ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m. by Vice-chairperson, George Tangen. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Additions: V.A.1. Purgatory Creek--Kruell V.A.2. Park Bond Committee--Dave Anderson . V.A.3. Round Lake Park--Fifield V.B.4. Council Report--Dave ANderson VII.C. Northwest Duck Lake Sector--Kruell MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to approve the agenda as revised; seconded *by Fifield, motion passed unanimously. III. MINUTES OF JUNE 18, 1979 Changes: Pg. 2, Mr. Cardavelle Pg. 3, Carolyn McNulty Pg. 2, V.A.l.b. , Kruell wanted to avoid•. the potential for creating traffic patterns that force people to drive, as in the Southdale area. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to approve the minutes as revised. Kruell seconded, t and the motion passed unanimously. IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Petition From Residents in Prairie East 2nd Addition Lambert presented a petition requesting the city not to construct a pathway on Outlot A of Prairie East 2nd, and Outlot B of Prairie East, signed by many homeowners on the Prairie East 2nd Addition. Dave Anderson asked if there would be a trail connection without this pathway. Lambert replied that a paved trail is to be built in the 7th Addition this summer, which would provide the necessary connection without developing the right-of-way on Outlots A and B. Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved July 2, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -2- Kruell asked f the outlots could be divided and assigned to the adjacent property owners, with an appropriate tax increase. Lambert pointed out that most of the property is presently being maintained by the adjacent landowners. These people have indicated that they will continue to do this if a hard surface is not put down. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to recommend to the Council that Outlots A an-dB of Prairie East 2nd Addition be graded, seeded, and marked; and the hard surface trail should run between lots 32 and 33 to complete the trail connection. Kruell seconded the motion, which passed unanimously. B. Resignation from Robert Carlson Lambert reported that on June 20, 1979, Bob Carlson had submitted his resignation. The City Council is scheduled to make a new appointment at their meeting on July 3, 1979. Tangen asked if a letter of appreciation had been sent on behalf of the Commission. Lambert replied that he had sent a letter, as will the mayor. No action required. V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS A. Reports of Commissioners 1. Purgatory Creek Kruell reported that he had been informed that excessive siltation running into the creek is causing trees to die. The trees are 'located two lots in on the creek, immediately north of Duck Lake Trail . He also requested that staff verify the reason for the debris piled on the banks of the creek. 2. Park Bond Committee Dave Anderson reported that Jerry Wigen and Jerry Kingrey were elected Co-chairpersons of the Park Bond Committee. The five Sub-committees and their Chairpersons are: 1) Hikeway/Bikeway/Trails - Al Upton 2) Parkland Acquisition and Development - Sharon Levitt 3) Athletic Facilities - High school Athletic Director, as yet unnamed, Ed King from EPAA, and Dave Anderson from HAEP. 4) Pool - Mary Lee 5) Community Center - Jerry Wigen The committees are gathering information for their next meeting on July 18, 1979, at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall . Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved July 2, 1979 I , Natural Resources Commission -3- C i 3. Round Lake Park Fifield reported that he is presently working at the concession stand at Round Lake Beach, which gives him daily contact with park users. Two main concerns have been expressed a number of times. First, the need for a source of water for picnicers, tennis players, and beach users. Secondly, the need for trash drums closer to the beach to discourage littering; Fifield suggested a drum placed near the lifeguard chair would be effective. Lambert agreed that another trash drum could be utilized. The water problem will be taken care of with the development of the park. An irrigation system is being planned for the fields, and a new we].T. will supply water for both. The city received confirmation from the school indicating they had approved the language in the draft of a 'letter allowing development of some ballfields on the school property. It now appears that the development will begin late this summer or in early fall . B. Reports of Staff 1. Old Farm Addition Development Proposal Mr. Don Peterson presented the plans for Dirlam Properties, locating the ( proposed project and reviewing the reasons they feel quadraminiums provide a needed housing opportunity. On the approximately 14 acre site, there is an old farm house in which the occupant has been given a life-estate. They propose that when this .8 acre site is ready for development, a neighborhood convenience center could be built. They will not request commercial zoning until they could begin development. He noted that they decided to incorporate buildings with double garages thoughout, and that a Homeowner's Association would be incorporated for maintenence. He directed a question as to the type and location of the proposed park for the area. He noted that present homeowners in Atherton have negative feelings about the park--they are sceptical about when it will be built. Lambert told him that Red Rock Park is planned as a neighborhood park-- to include playing fields, tennis courts, etc. At this point, it is at least two years until aquisition can begin, unless there is a successful bond issue. The owner of the property has indicated that he is not ready to sell for at least a year, but he does intend to sell to the city for park purposes. He suggested that the commission could note that the residents are feeling negative about the possibility of a park in their neighborhood, and ask the Council to direct staff to inquire about or secure an option on the property. Dave Anderson asked if Homeowners Associations are standard in this type of development. Peterson told him that is hovnaintenence is handled at The Beaches, New Horizons, and other similar developments. Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved July 2, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -4- Kruell observed that housing was not varied, with only two types of ground floor layouts. Also, he felt that when housing is developed adjacent to a future commercial site, the seller should inform the buyer of that future development. Peterson replied that they are aware that there will be opposition from neighbors to the commercial site, but that the Planning Commission had suggested rezoning at the time of development. Kruell asked about the Cash Park Fee designation. Lambert replied that when residential developments come in and pay a Cash Park Fee, wa are committing development of a park within one half mile of their development. However, in the case of commercial or industrial payment of the fees, the money can be used on trails, or city-wide park development. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to recommend to the Council approval of tTe_0_Td Farm Development Proposal per the staff report of June 20, 1979; and that staff inquire about the possible aquisition of an option on the property for Red Rock Park. Kruell seconded the motion. DISCUSSION: Dave Anderson noted that he included the inquiry about park property to give the Park Bond Committee help with figures--an option or purchase price would help in planning. Also, the area is being developed rapidly, and an option would be good insurance. VOTE: The motion carried, with three in favor, and Fifield opposed. Fifield stated that the proposal received his no vote because of their intention to ultimately develop a commercial site in a residential area, which he felt was inappropriate. 2. Summer Registration Recap x Lambert presented the report submitted by Sandy Werts on the registrations for summer programs to date. Dave Anderson asked if there had been any feed back from the Teen Program. Lambert told him he would check into it and report back. No action required. 3. Removal of House at 8698 County Road 18 MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to recommend to the Council that the house at 68 98 County Road 18 be turned over to the Eden Prairie Fire Department for training purposes, since the staff has tried twice to bid for removal and has never received an offer. Tangen seconded and the motion passed unanimously. 14 Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved July 2, 1979 ! . Natural Resources Commission -5- C j4. Council Report The following actions were taken by the Council : 1) Hidden Ponds appraisals--approved 2) Bryant Lake Master Plan--approved 3) Options on Purgatory Creek property--recommended dropping options, and try to buy a scenic vista. LAWCON grant funds, however, if approved, could re-open negotiations. VI. OLD BUSINESS A. Vo-Tech Lease--Stables Lambert presented the last revision of the lease for the Eden Prairie Stables. The Vo-Tech had made a few changes, and these were noted on the report, along with an explanation of their rationale. The City Attorney had reviewed and approved the changes. The major changes were an increase in the rent, and rent credit, and some language changes about the insurance, to comply with their policy, C- MOTION: Fifield moved to recommend to the Council approval of the lease agreement for -the Eden Prairie Stables as revised by the Hennepin County Vo-Tech Schools. Tangen seconded. The motion passed with Kruell opposed. i i VII. NEW BUSINESS A. Metropolitan Airports Commission Hiking Trail Easement--Staring Lake Park MAC approved a request from the city to allow a trail easement across their property for the purpose of a hiking trail . They outlined conditions which are necessary to assure that the trail would not interfere with the operation of the airport. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to recommend to the Council approval of the trail easement as per the conditions outlined by MAC. Tangen seconded, and it passed unanimously. B. Request for Appraisal of Parcel #1 - Bryant Lake Park Metram Properties, who hold the last parcel needed to complete acquisition of Bryant Lake Park have contacted the city to notify them of their desire to develop it. Tangen asked what portion of Metram's sixty acres would be needed--could it ( be obtained through dedication? I Minutes--Parks, Recreation & -approved July 2, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -6- Lambert replied that we want the Cash Park Fee. There are about nineteen acres needed to complete the park, and there are regional funds available for the aquisition. MOTION: Kruell moved to recommend that the Council authorize staff to secure an appraisal on Parcel #1, and begin negotiations on the property. Fifield seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. C. Northwest Duck Lake Sector Kruell referred to the complete area north of Duck Lake Trail and West of Duck Lake Road as containing a high percentage of marshy area. He was concerned that the normal practice of piece-meal development will lead to an imbalance of densities and the probable unnecessary destruction of wildlife areas. He asked that the Commission request that the Council look at the area as a whole, and begin to develop an integrated, completely planned section which will accomodate good overall densities and plan for park and wildlife areas at the same time. Lambert pointed out that unless all the landowners agree on a PUD, there is not anything the City can do. He pointed out that although this action would be idealistic, it would be unfair to property owners unless this was required throughout the City. Kruell asked, if it happened, would we preserve more land, would the developers be accomodated, and would we end up with better developments? Dave Anderson suggested that this question should be taken to the Planning Commission. A presentation to the Planning Commission and City Council would be more appropriate. Tangen offered that if some citizens come in with a petition requesting this type of recommendation, then the commission could act on it. He stated that the request should be presented in writing. No action required. VIII. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Georgia Jessen Recording Secretary AGENDA f. EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, JULY 16, 1979 7:30 P.M. , CITY HALL COMMISSION MEMBERS: Richard Anderson, Chairperson; David Anderson, Steve Fifield, Robert Johnson, Robert Kruell, George Tangen, Larry VanMeter COMMISSION STAFF: Robert A. Lambert, Director of Community Services Approx. Time to Begin Item 7:30 I. ROLL CALL II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA III. MINUTES OF JULY 2, 1979 IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS None C V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS A. Reports of Commissioners None B. Reports of Staff 7:40 1. Development Proposal - Rauenhorst Opus II Office Center 8:00 2. Teen Center Report 8:10 3. Transportation Program 8:30 4. Brochure Change 8:45 5. Purgatory Creek Trees 8:55 6. Report on Community Services Projects VI. OLD BUSINESS 9:00 A. Milkovich Appraisal 9:10 B. Hidden Ponds Park Site Appraisals 9:25 C. Snowmobile Trail Enforcement r V C VII. NEW BUSINESS 9:35 A. Budget for 1980 10:00 VIII. ADJOURNMENT !APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Monday, July 16, 1979 7:30 City Hall COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: David Anderson, Steve Fifield, Robert Johnson, Robert Kruell , George Tangen, Richard Anderson, (arrived at 8:00 p.m.) COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: Larry Van Meter COMMISSION STAFF PRESENT: Robert Lambert, Director of Community Services OTHERS PRESENT: Dick Dahl , E.P. News; Al Dybiec, E.P. Sun, Robert Worthington I. ROLL CALL At 7:35 p.m. the meeting was called to order by George Tangen, Vice-chairperson. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Additions: V.B.7. Council Report - Dave Anderson VII.B. Round Lake Park - Kruell MOTION: Dave Anderson moved, and Fifield seconded, to approve the agenda as published, with the additions. Motion passed unanimously. III. MINUTES OF JULY 2, 1979 Changes: pg. 2, V.A.1. , verify "the reason for" pg. 4, para. 1, . . . intent, and that when etc. pg. 6, C. , rewrite para. 1 & 2, and add "no action taken" Because Page 5 was not included in the Commissioner's packets, the item was tabled until after the break, at which time it could be distributed and reviewed. IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND C014MUNICATIONS None V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS A. Reports of Commissioners None B. Reports of Staff 1. Development Proposal - Rauenhorst Opus II Office Center Lambert pointed out to the Commission that the major concerns they may wish to deal with are grading (type and amount) , tree removal , and parking. CWhen Mr. Robert Worthington from Rauenhorst arrived, he outlined their plan and explained the background of the project. Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved July 16, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -2- The Planning Commission had recommended approval, subject to the redesign of parking areas in respect to the vegetation on the site, and set backs on the property. He noted that the Park Dedication Fee would be paid, and described what they term a secondary road system serving the complex of buildings. This system of trails (ten foot, asphalt) lies within a green area dedicated for public use. (All utilities lie beneath this secondary road system.) Kruell observed that the developer has done an admirable job siting buildings,building trails, etc. Yet, the expansion process may prove to be different. It appeared much filling and excavating would be required to develop this lowland resource area. It may be attractive to a developer, but it is not,from a nature conservation standpoint. Mr. Worthington explained that although some low wetland is being reclaimed as a parking area, the whole project received approval through an Environmental Impact Statement. That area of wetland was a grade that was approved for filling by means of a tradeoff. The developers created a pond to retain ground water and house displaced wildlife. They also developed a second pond specifically for a wildlife nesting area--installing feeders and nesting islands. They hope these will help to reduce the impact of filling wetlands for construction. In their development, they have tried to be sensitive, while using trade- offs on density and intensity of use. MOTION: Johnson moved to recommend to the Council , approval of the proposed Rauenhorst Opus II Office Center, as per staff recommendations in the Memorandum of July 13, 1979. Dave Anderson seconded the motion, which passed, with Kruell voting nay, and R. Anderson abstaining.(Mr. Anderson arrived shortly before the vote was called.) Kruell explained that we cannot afford to cover any more natural water percolation areas. R. Anderson assumed the chair. 2. Teen Center Report t In response to a question at the last meeting, a report was submitted to the Commission by Hal Weldin, the Director of the Teen Center. Weldin pointed out that although attendance is down, the participants are enjoying the program with fewer problems. R. Anderson asked if the Public Safety Department was showing support. Lambert replied that on Friday evenings, when most of the problems are f likely to occur, they cruise through the parking lot every 15-20 minutes. This has resulted in fewer problems. 3. Transportation Program The six month trial transportation program is due to end August 1, 1979. Staff feels they were close to their projections on useage and cost, I. Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved July 16,1979 Natural Resources Commission -4- (' 5. Purgatory Creek Trees Lambert explained that this report was submitted in response to two questions raised by the Commission. i Kruell pointed out that the wrong debris pile had been investigated. The one he had questioned is a four foot mud pile, created by the City crew, and dumped on private land. Sand, silt, and other debris are being washed into the creek,raising the water level and killing nearby trees as a direct result. R.Anderson asked if storm sewers are causing the problem, should the pattern be changed? At Lambert's suggestion, it was agreed that Kruell should meet with staff at the site to further research the causes. Kruell will report back to the Commission at the next meeting. A short recess was called at 9:20 p.m. , by R. Anderson. R. Anderson told the commission that he had received a letter from the Les Blacklocks, concerning the Anderson Lakes Joint Powers Agreement. He asked that the letter be distributed. A copy is attached to the minutes. C (III. MINUTES) After reviewing the complete Minutes of July 2, 1979, the Commission was ready to act on them. MOTION: Tangen moved to approve the minutes as published and previously revised; seconded by Dave Anderson, the motion passed. R. Anderson abstained. 6. Report on Community Services Projects Lambert explained that he put together a report on a quarterly basis, and thought the Commissioners would like to see the updated report on current projects. Fifield asked when the Shoreland Management Ordinance would go before the Council . Lambert told him that the draft with the final revisions proposed by the Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission and the Planning Commission was waiting for the City Planner to compile in a final draft. Kruell asked about the Comprehensive Park Plan; why did it have to wait so long before being reviewed by the Council? Lambert explained that the Council felt that this was not a part of the Guide Plan, but rather, a specific document. They wish to aadopt it as a separate plan. Some changes have occured since it was drafted and it should be updated. Lambert also felt that the one mil levy suggested as part of the plan be eliminated and brought up as a separate issue. r _ i Minutes-- Parks, Recreation & approved July 16, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -3- and feel it has been generally successful . With the addition of a Human Services Coordinator and the expansion of the program at the Senior Citizens' Center, use will probably increase. (For example, 30-40 people have been using the center on Friday nights.) Staff is recommending that the program be continued. Kruell asked if the program would operate in the same manner if a van were acquired (through donation,or otherwise. Lambert explained that a van would improve the program--offering more reliable transportation, and would require fewer trips since it can carry more people at one time. I MOTION: Tangen moved to recommend that the Council approve a one year continuation of the program, to be reviewed again at that time. Dave Anderson seconded the motion, which passed unanimously. 4. Brochure Change Mick Anderson, Director of Community Education, recommended, and his Board approved, a change in the joint-brochure format which would increase the size of the brochure as well as the cost. They feel such a brochure would be easier -to understand, more professional looking, and they hope people would retain them for reference. Lambert had been asked to seek approval from the Commission. Dave Anderson did not agree that people would retain the brochure, unless it contained something that was of interest to them. Lambert pointed out that there is still much misunderstanding abOUt where the programs are coming from. Also, staff feels it is very important to be supportive, and promote cooperation between the departments. Kruell suggested that the Commission could offer to contribute $400- 500, (the present cost) , on a trial basis; and support the new format if it proves to be worth the added expense. He recognised the potential , but expressed satisfaction with the present brochure. R. Anderson stressed how important he feels it is for the city to work with the Community Education Department, especially when spending tax dollars. This is one reason we have School-Parks in Eden Prairie. Dave Anderson stated that although he can see many ether areas for the use of the money, he could support the increased cost if it could be shown that the new format could promote the programs better than the old one does. MOTION: Kruell moved to recommend that the Council direct staff to go back to the Community Education Director to discuss the current brochure situation, explaining that this Commission seems to be very happy with the present brochure, but wants to cooperate with the Community �- Education Department. Dave Anderson seconded the motion, which passed unanimously. r, Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved July 16, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -5- Dave Anderson requested that the posts for the hockey rinks go in at Round Lake Park and Edenvale Park soon, with construction to follow anytime--whether the ground is frozen or not. Lambert assured him that the lumber had been ordered and the entire project would be competed before the ground freezes. MOTION: Tangen moved to recommend that the Commission continue to receive a Project Report and a quarterly basis, since it is helpful and informative. Fifield seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously. 7. Council Report 1) Larry Van Meter was appointed as a Commission member, to replace Robert Carlson. 2) Removal of house on County Road 18 - approved. 3) MAC agreement for trail easement - approved. 4) Vo-tech lease for Eden Prairie Stables - approved. 5) Prairie East Trail Petition - Council directed staff to research the issue, feeling that Hustad had agreed to pave the trail . (The staff has not found a firm agreement yet). 6) Appraisal of Parcel 1 on Bryant Lake Park - requested that staff contact owner for selling price--felt appraisal was not necessary. Kruell asked about the status of the proposed wetland preservation. Lambert had submitted it to the Council in their "Information Packet" for their reaction. Kruell requested that it appear on the next Commission agenda. VI. OLD BUSINESS A. Milkovich Appraisal Lambert reported that the appraisal was close to the sellers' asking price, because they would not have to pay a commission to a realtor, etc. The City will get 100% funding for the property. MOTION: Kruell moved to recommend that the Council direct staff to make an offer based on the appraisal . Fifield seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. j B. Hidden Ponds Park Site Appraisals ( Lambert presented the two options available for a park in the Hidden Ponds area. The staff recommended the original park site as opposed to the Camp Frontier site due to it's location and good access: When Camp Frontier is developed, a mini-park could be incorporated into the development. r , Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved July 16, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -6- Kruell agreed with these reasons, and suggested that the nearby, abandoned Rail Road line be picked up as a trail connection. MOTION: Tangen moved to recommend that the Council direct staff to negotiate as option as per staff recommendation in the memorandum of July 13, 1979. Seconded by Fifield, the motion passed unanimously. C. Snowmobile Trail Enforcement This item was included on a July agenda as per Commission request. MOTION: Tangen moved to table the item until the second meeting in October. No second, the motion died. Kruell noted that the snowmobile trails did not go through the Northwest Sector last winter; if the club starts now, they should have time to plan and apply for grants for funding, to expand the trails. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved that a letter be directed to the president of the Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club, outlining the problems, and asking them to work with the staff to determine possible routes to serve other areas of the City; to be on the agenda at the second meeting in October. Tangen seconded the motion. DISCUSSION: Fifield asked if signs could be posted prior to the snowmobile season this year, rather than after the snowfall . It should be done as soon as it is possible and reasonable. Kruell wished to pass along the observation that future success or failure of snowmobiling in Eden Prairie is at a critical point this year, due to much new development. VOTE: Motion passed unanimously. VII. NEW BUSINESS A. Budget 1980 Lambert explained that the budget report is due by the end of July, and any changes and/or additions the Commission would like to make should be made soon. Fifield asked what type of picnic shelter was planned at Riley Lake Park. Lambert told him that the present building will be leveled and by using the existing slab, a wooden structure will be built,• with storage, restrooms and concession at one end. There is a fireplace that will be used, if possible. Kruell asked if these budget items follow the park plan, or are they separate. Minutes--Parks, Recreation & :approved July 16, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -7- c Lambert told him that in the plan, most anticipated funds come from the Cash Park Fees, and a one mill levy. This budget request is for park improvements from the General Budget only, MOTION: Kruell moved to table this item until the next meeting, (August 6, 1 79) for revisions and additions. Tangen seconded the motion. Dave Anderson stated that he would like to see the whole budget. y VOTE: The motion passed unanimously. B. Round Lake Park Kruell asked, with construction to begin soon at Round Lake Park, is there a plan to get rid of the gophers? He noted that the present situation is dangerous. Lambert described a method for killing gophers that the City crews hope to utilize. It involves trenching in circular patterns, and leaving poison in the trenches. It tears up the field, but with the construction to begin soon anyway, they would like •to try it. VIII. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 10:35 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Georgia Jessen Recording Secretary AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE BOND REFERENDUM COMMITTEE EDEN PRAIRIE CITY HALL JULY 18, 1979 I. Roll Call II. Mike Bassett, Director of Parks and Recreation, Apple Valley Apple Valley has been successful in passing referendums for a golf course, ice arena and park development in the last five years. Mike will discuss how the citizens of Apple Valley proceeded to successfully bring these Questions to the community. III. Reports of Subcommittees 1. Community Center/Arena - Jerry Wigen 2. Indoor Swimming Pool - Mary Lee 3. Park Acquisition and Development - Sharon Levitt i 4. Athletic Facilities - Ed King S. Trails - Al Upton IV. Discussion V. Set Next Meeting Date VI. Adjournment SUMMARY OF MEETING EDEN PRAIRIE BOND REFERENDUM COMMITTEE July 18, 1979 7:30 P.M. , CITY HALL MEMBERS PRESENT: Sharon Levitt, Dave Anderson, Jerry Wigen Marie Cornett, Mary Lee, Ed King, Jerry Kingrey STAFF PRESENT: Bob Lambert, Director of Community Services OTHERS PRESENT: Darcy Peterson, from Atherton; Dick Dahl, Eden Prairie News; Mike Bassett, Director of Parks and Recreation, City of Apple Valley t Meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M. Mike Bassett spoke on park bond referendums passed in Apple Valley. Appley Valley is 17 sq. miles with approximately 21,000 people. In 1973, they hired their first Park and Recreation Director (they now have 80% of their projected parkland acquired with approximately 30% of their projected population) . Mike then listed the bond issues that have been passed in recent years: 1971 - $650,000 bond issue for parks (10% was for acquisition and 90% was for development) 1972 - $220,000 bond issue for Public Safety 1973-(November) - $1,475,000 bond issue for an eighteen hole golf course ; 1973 - $12,000,000 bond issue for schools 1974-(September) - $564,000 bond issue for ice arena (50% was put up by the schools and 50% of the arena costs was put up by the City. Therefore, they had $1.2 millon dollars for construction of the ice arena that was attached to the high school by a corridor. The City is responsible for operating and managing the ice arena. The maintenance costs are split 50/50 between the School District and the City.) 1974 - $200,000 bond issue for Fire Stations and Pathways 1976 - $895,000 for City Hall and Police expansion 1978 - $19.5 millon dollar bond issue for school 1978 - $460,000 bond issue for Fire Halls 1979 - $1,085,000 bond issue for park development (had 3 questions, 2 passed) Mike indicated that several of these bond issues went around twice before they passed. If a bond issue failed, they usually put it back before the people inthe following year. In 1980 they project another bond referendum for an athletic complex and another school bond issue. Mike indicated that he felt to pass a bond referendum in a community, the committee must show the need and the need must be backed up by facts. There cannot be any doubt expressed when presenting the issue to the people. You must have a good plan and a basis for the need, statistics backing up those needs, be able to answer the questions on the reasons why a bond referendum is needed. Mike indicated that two of their larger bond referendums passed in the fall and their most recent one passed in the spring. John Voss, Urban Planning and Design, feels the spring of the year is the best time to pass a bond referendum for parks and between the 16th and 20th of the month is the best time of the month to hold the election. r -2- Mike then discussed the pools that Apple Valley presently has. They have one C outdoor pool that was built by a developer and later dedicated to the City. They also have two indoor pools attached to their middle schools. One is operated by the School District, the other is operated by the City. Mike indicated that most indoor pools attached to schools are attached to a middle school because that is the age group that uses them the most through a swimming lesson program. Mike then discussed the Apple Valley Ice Arena. He indicated that it was attached to the Apple Valley High School. It serves two High Schools in the Rosemount District, Rosemount High School and Appley Valley High School. The City operates the arena but the School District pays for 50% of the operating costs and paid for 50% of -the construction costs. The schools use the facility during the day as the school physical education station and do not have. to pay for ice use from 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. However, they are charged for use after 6:00 P.M. at the normal rate. Mike felt that the arena met the operating costs but would not pay off any other debt service. They have ice from October through March. After the ice is taken off they have four arti.fical tennis surfaces that are put down and all of their tennis instructions take place on these four courts. They also hold six to eight tennis torunaments on weekends and have a challenge ladder operating throughout the week. They charge $4 per hours per court. Apple Valley also has fourteen outdoor tennis courts now. An additional eight will be constructed with the most recent referendum. They have also had two dog shows in the arena. The School District has held ice follies and sports banquets in the arena. Mike indicated that on nearly all of their referendums there was a low turnout; approximately 15-16% of the eligible voters. He recommended that the committee work on the people that are in favor of the referendum. He used door to door flyers. They had public meetings but felt that they are of little benefit as there was a very low turnout at all of their public meetings (a dozen to 30 people) . Also, most of those that did turn out at the public meetings were already in favor of the referendum. He felt that it is important it was to get public input during the planning stages. He also indicated how tough it was to keep the public interest or to try to get people involved in the planning. He felt that once the referendum recommendation is brought to the City Council and it is officially announced as to the amount and date of election, the election should be held fairly soon, about six weeks. Any less than six weeks and the voters may feel that are being rushed and don't have time to ask questions about the issues. Any longer than six weeks and the people get tired of hearing about it. The best way to get the people out to vote is through telephone calls to people who you know are in favor of the referendum and ask them to convince their friends to get out and vote for it. Do this the day before or two days before the election. Wigen questioned whether Mike felt it was better to have a single question or separate questions. Mike felt very strong about dividing different issues into different questions. He felt it was important to let each issue stand on its own merit; give the people a chance to support what they want. He felt that if a referendum were to be brought before the people asking if they wanted a school with a pool attached that sort of question should be one question because it is very closely related, but if the issues ' are not related there should be separate questions. C . -3- f He also felt that brochures should be simple, direct and to the point. They received criticism on some of their referendums for spending too much money on an elaborate brochure. Studies have also indicated that a simple, direct brochure is more effective than a more detailed brochure. Mike felt that the limitations of the City should be defined in the beginning. How much can the City afford before the bond rating might be affected. He also indicated that studies have shown that a 1.5 millon dollar park bond has just as good a chance to pass as a $5,000 bond referendum. Mr. Bassett left the meeting at approximately 9:15 P.M. and was thanked for his most helpful information. Jerry Wigen indicated that Al Upton was willing to serve as trails committee chairperson but did not want to get involved in anything other than trails. Darcy Peterson, from Atherton, talked about the concern of the residents of Atherton for the Red Rock Park site. Many residents felt the City was now going to lose that potential park site and residents wanted information on what the status of that park is and when it was going to be developed. She indicated that the residents of Atherton had been promised that that park would be developed by this time. Jerry Kingrey suggested that we breakdown the committee meetings into two major groups; one the ice arena committee and pool committee and two athletic facilities, park acquisition and development committee, three the trails committee so that C these meetings will accomplish something. i Mary Lee, Chairperson of the pools committee indicated she had called 16 different cities or school districts with swimming pools and non of these governmental indicated that any pool referendums had passed in their city unless heywereagcncies attached to a referendum for the construction of the school. All 16 were attached to the Middle Schools as the middle school children were the prime users. Many of the people she talked to pointed to the swimming pool that will soon be completed in the City of Blaine. This was an ideal pool for school/community use as one large pool with a shallow end for small children leading out to the deeper end where the competition lanes are located. This pool cost $1.2 millon dollars. She also indicated that she had contacted the school architect to ask how much the swimming pool proposed in 1977 would cost in 1979, the architect indicated approximately $1.2 millon dollars. Jerry Wigen indicated that lie had talked to an architect that was designing a pool in southern Minnesota that was to be attached to a high school as a competition pool and was to cost approximately $550,000. Mr. Wigen indicated that it didn't appear as though the School Board was very interested in a community center attached to the high school. Howeverm they would be interested in having a pool attached. There was then a great deal of discussion on the possibility of a pool/arena community center located on school property at Round Lake. C 14 -4- Jerry Kingrey reiterated that the main committee is discussing items that the sub- committees should already have worked out. There was a great deal of discussion as to what the subcommittees are supposed to do and how they are to do it. Kingrey felt that they were resource oriented committees that were suppose to provide information on facilities, priorities and costs. Mrs. Cornett asked when we are going to the voters. Wigen commented he still felt early to Mid fall was when we should present this to the voters. There was then a great deal of discussion about the community center/ice arena and where it should be located, and what type of a facility it should be and what the process should be to present this to the Council and the School Board. It was also questioned as to how much information should be provided at this time, who should be gathering that information, how much detail the park bond committee should providing to the School Board and the City Council. The question came up as to how the committee should arrive at cost estimates and how many locations should be presented as possibilities to the School Board and the City Council. Lambert indicated that he felt the arena and pool committees should acquire information on what the facilities should include and then meet with the building committee of the School District to discuss location. After that they would take a recommendation to the School Board and the City Council. If the School Board and City Council could agree on the issue, the School Board and City Council would have to work out ownership, maintenance responsibilities and location prior to a bond referendum. They would probably also have to hire an architect to do preliminary design work on a buidling so people would know what the facility would look like and so accurate cost estimates could be proposed in the bond referendum. Jerry Wigen then expounded on the need for an ice arena in the City. Sharon Levitt and Ed King stated that they felt the questions should be separate questions and that each question should stand on its own merit. They felt there should be a question on swimming pool, one on ice arena, one on park acquisition and development and one on athletic facilities. Both felt the prime need of the community was for park acquisition and development. Jerry Wigen felt very strongly that it should be one question. -Lambert indicated - He had some concern for determining the location of the arena. that there wouldn't be room on the Round Lake Park property without removing some of the existing facilities. Wigen questioned whether the committee should submit several locations for the arena to the Council. It was decided that they should recommend what they felt was the best location. Lambert indicated that he felt Mr. Bassett brought up some very good points for the rationale of having separate questions. Jerry Kingrey felt that he would not want to make a decision on how many questions it was to be until subcommittees had some submitted final reports to eosed. committee and he would know what the amounts were and what was being prop Lambert then asked would the callcommittee Lambertwanted to set set thethe nextnext meetingmeeting. afterIthewas decided arena that Jerry Wigen and pool committee had prepared their final report. CKingrey, King and Levitt also agreed to meet with Lambert prior to the next meeting.