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Parks and Recreation - 11/22/1976 1976 NOVEMBER 1 , 22 MINUTES CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE I AGENDA jj EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION 1 . Monday, November 1, 1976 7:30 PM, CITY HALL COMMISSION MEMBERS: Marvin Erickson, Tim Pierce , Richard Anderson, _ Paul Choiniere, Steve Fifield, William Garens, Francis Helmer, Jerry Kingrey, Geneva Middleton, Brian Mikkelson, Mary Upton COMMISSION STAFF: Marty Jessen, Director of Community Service Approx. Time to Begin Item 7:3 0 1. ROLL CALL II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA III. MINUTES OF OCTOBER 18, 1976 MEETING IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS C7:45 A. Request from Holmes Empson, E.P.A.A. President, to discuss facility needs B. V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS 8:00 A. Reports of Commissioners 1. Councilman Pierce 2. School Board Chairman Middleton 3. Commissioner Garens-Guide Plan Update B. Reports of Staff 8:15 1 . 1976-77 Skating Program 8:25 2• Fall Program Update and Winter Recreational Activities Parks, Recreation & Natural -2- Mon. , Nov. 1/76 / Resources Commission 8:30 3. Park Acquisition Status Report a. Community Park--1968 Bond Fund/Grants b. Neigborhood Playgrounds--Discussion of Cash Park Fee Strategy 8:50 4. Purgatory Creek-review of Council Resolution No.1125 & update on new information 9:15 S. Nine-Mile Creek Improvements VI. OLD BUSINESS VII. NEW BUSINESS 9:30 VIII. ADJOURNMENT C t, APPROVED PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Monday, November 1, 1976 7t30 P.M. CITY HALL, MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Marvin Erickson, William Garen, Francis Helmer, Mary Upton, Steve Fifield, Richard Anderson, Paul Choiniere, Tim Pierce, and Geneva Middleton MEMBERS ABSENT2 Jerry Kingrey (excused) STAFF PRE3EWt Marty Jessen, Director of Community Services Sandy Werts, Recreation Supervisor OTHERS PRESENTt Mr. & Mrs. Floyd Carpenter, Floyd Berntsen, Holmes Empson, E.P.A.A. President, Randy Retterath, and Mr. & Mrs. H. Kaerwer Jessen presented Certificates of Appreciation from the Commission for "Years of service" to Mr. Floyd Carpenter, in the field of firearms safety, and to Mr. Floyd Berntsen. for snowmobile training. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Erickson at 7t35 PM, I II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Addition of VI. A. Cozen&reside West — Helms of "VII. A. NE corner of Highway 5 & Co. Rd. 4 — Garen Helmer moved to approve Agenda as amended. Garens seconded, motion carried unanimously. III. MINUTES OF OCTOBER 18, 1976 MEZZW Pg. 3, para. 4, add "Helmer felt that adults should be able to smoke on or near the ice while watching hockey games etc.." Pg. 3, para. 4, last sentence, add ", and he understands that the Ordinance is annually reviewed and many items can be watched for effect." Pg. 2, para. 1, delete complete para., add "Kingrey asked about future land use for the remaining property. Jessen responded that he felt it would be single family dwellings." Pg, 2, para. 5, sent. 2, delete "price", add "appraised value". to " 11 6, sent. 1, add"Onoting that some on the Council viewed the value as too high." after "propertyn. Pg. 2, para. 89, Change para. to read "Kingrey said he felt it was important that not only is the Commission aware of the value of the land in question, but also any points that may have an effect on the appraisal, with no intention of picking the appraisal apart." Change date to read "October 18, 1976". Pg. 4, para. 4, delete "1st", add "S" after"November". 11 " last para., delete "parrell". Garens moved to accept Minutes of October 18, 19760,as corrected. Upton seconded, motion carried unanimously, with Anderson abstaining. Minutes - Parks, Roe. and Page 2 Natural Resources Commission approved November 1, 1976 IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Reaueat from Holmes Empson. E.P.AA. President to discuss facility needs Mr. Empson was introduced by Jessen, and expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to speak with the Commission on this matter. He spoke to the status of the present facilities, and the increase of participation such as 34% increase in football enrollment this fall. He said the eight fields at Flying Cloud field will not be enough for the boys and girls programs. By adding a third field at Round bake for football, which was almost too close to the other fields, and p arranging baseball schedules, they were able to avoid any crisis this season, but he said they are running out of facilities. Empson spoke to their Motion at their past meeting, stating they were in the position to assist in the development of fields, by offering $3,0 per field, if the City could provide the land. He said they were faced with philosophical discussions as to what their problem was. It was decided that tha.purpose of their fund raising activity would have to be re-directed, since each program in itself is self-sustaining through the fees paid by participants. Y C Erickson asked whether EPAA would have any objections to scattered fields throughout the comet mitt'. Empson responded that the need was Ctoo great and that whatever land was available would be acceptable, and he added that the Commission would be in the best position to know. f Upton asked how many fields were needed. Empson said they hope to have four new fields, but two or three would alleviate the pressure of this ,year, but will have a problem next year with football fields. He said this would be accomplished through an intensive industrial and house to house fund raising drive. G e Jessen spoke to the present opportunity at Round Lake through the pro- gramming of LAWCON assistance for 1977, with four to five youth sports fields, one baseball field, and two softball fields. He spoke to the ' double utilization of facilities with the school district. Helmer asked whether Jessen would recommend the use of the manpower and funds by the EPAA to got the fields started. Jessen responded affirmative. He added they will begin to do design work with EPAA. �d Erickson asked what we could commit to this plan. Jessen said we can commit land that is available and LAWCON assistance. Empson said that originally they thought the road would be in a different location and asked whether there was any agreement. Jessen said the School Board and Council have mutually agreed on the location of the road, � and the fields would be to the south of it. Minutes- Parks, Recreation and Page 3 Natural Resources Commission -approved November 1, 1976 CA. Reauest from Holmes Empson.:,,,,needs (contt'd) As a temporary situation, Holmes had requested use of the fields from five to eight years. Erickson inquired as to their continued use if the grant falls through. Jessen responded affirmative, and added that we have been working on sketches and how the layout would work, with discussion with the school district and about LAWCON funding. Garen felt the situation should not be temporary but good for at least forty years. Upton asked when the fund drive was scheduled. Empson responded that it was to be in early April, and that they plan to have artists renderings. Jessen added that both EPAA and- the City should have ,the same renderings. Other possible sites were discussed, such as the elementary schools and .land by the City Hall, which proved to be inadequate in one way or another. Empson was concerned about the possibility of the grant not coming through and whether they could still go ahead. Jessen responded affirmative, and added that they should know the outcome of the grant before their fund raising date. Empson inquired whether land utilization will be approved by the school board and the city? Jessen said that it becomes the land plan of the future. Choiniere arrived at 8:10 PM. MOTION: Upton moved to give 9PPA a firm answer and plans by February 1, 1977, for the fields as it relates to 1977 LAWCON grant and City planning. Middleton seconded, motion carried, with Choiniere abstaining beoause of late arrival. Upton expressed appreciation for the work done by EPAA for the benefit of the children of Eden Prairie. Empson saidthey hope to keep the same philosophy as was prevalent in the past. V. RMOMMMATIONS AND A. Reports of Commissi ners 1. Councilman Pierce - not present at this time. 2. School Hoard Chairman Middleton Middleton spoke to an upcoming special meeting for the purpose of considering a survey and questionnaire to find out what could have been differently, what questions weren't answered, and what has to be done to bring another issue back or other alternatives. Jessen offered a comment as relating to the school bond issue, that people had told him it was too expensive. He added he felt that the City and school district has not coordinated their efforts and suggested the possibility of combining school and park issues. s Minutes - Park, Rae. and Page 4 Natural Resources Commission approved November 1, 1976 CT 2. School Board Chairman Middleton (contid� Middleton commented that we are used to doing long-range planning and feels that people are only interested in a five year plan. s Choiniere said he felt it was very well presented and did the job, but felt people had a fear of something being put over on them and w that it was not expanded enough; Garens expressed his opinion that people are living „tight", and that until they see the split shifts, busing, and the necessity of it, they will vote against it. Middleton said in the long run, it is the wisest choice to build a new high school, but the people could only see the need in the middle school. Upton said that people had suggested the possibility of the Prairie View remodeling question being submitted separately or moving the sixth grades back to the elementary sxhools. B. Retorts of Staff 1. 1976-77 Skatine Prop-ram Jessen reported that the plans for Prairie View were well underway, with the hockey association people putting up the boards and they hope to get assistance in putting up the warming house. He said that Warts has been in touch with all people listed in the mini-rink area, and there are some problems. Garens commented that it was the feeling that some rinks were successful and some not successful last year, and suggested that if we have trouble r limiting the number to twelve, the neighborhoods that were given a chance i and did not perform should be second to those that did not have that chance .vet. Warts located sites of the mini-rinks throughout the community and listed k Cedar Forest, Mitchell Road, Golfview. Hidden Ponds, and Maple Leaf Acres as additional sites that had resmaded. She commented that some are in close proximity with each other and the major rinks. She added that all f landowners have been contacted. Jessen said that we are not sure of the final commnittments from some of r these people. He added that fifteen sites ate proposed with an alternative. MJTIONt Choiniere moved that we provide fifteen mini rink sites for the } program this year as outlined in Warts presentatl.on, considering the six- teenth rink as an alternate rink. Upton seconded. Motion was defeated 4-3. Garens questioned what financial effect this would have. Jessen said if people do a good job of preparing ice and if we get cooperation, the City could maintain the rinks. Minutes - Parks, Rea. and Page 5 Natural Resources Commission approved November 1, 1976 1. 1276-77 Skating Program conttd) Anderson agreed with Choiniere's position, but said he would hesitate putting money into areas where no interest was shown. He requested an amendment to the motion that would drop any neighborhood that did not show interest. Choiniere felt that more effort has to be put forth in order to get people interested. He suggested a flyer be sent out early enough in the season. Upton asked whether because a neighborhood did not contact the City, it meant they were not interested. Worts said it could mean that the contact person was not interested. She added that interest was shown in many neighborhoods but only two or three families carried the ball. MOTIONS Garens moved to consider these fifteen to sixteen sites and that they be supported on the basis of finding somebody who will take charge in the area and where that locality continues to take an active interest in the rink. Upton seconded, with Choiniere abstaining. Garens said he agrees with Choiniere's philosophy that we should make it available for everybody, but not if people aren't interested. 2. FAIL Program Unda+A and Winter RecregtionaI Activities Jessen said report by Worts was self-explanatory. There was agreement by members on receiving the report and proceeding with developments on pg. 2 of the report. 5. Nine-Mile Creek L=rovements Jessen spoke to action of Commission at one of their previous meetings where there was general agreement to the concept. He added that the Watershed Dis- trict at their recent meeting approved of the plan and tentatively agreed to commit $1,000 in improvements. He said that the kind of improvements we are talking about will be the construction of a pond on one-fourth of an acrea very near the creek, with a future committment to other ponds and path system to the mini park area. He felt it would be easily accomplished and would be a good beginning point. Mr. Kaerwer said he felt that the creek bed ought to be public property. He continued that they own a small part of it and are willing to deed a small Part to the City if the City shows good faith in using this land properly. Kaerwer said that they are proposing to give $1,000 for the building of a woul small duck pond. Referring to Blacklockfs suggestions, they felt there d be benefits in having some water and island for the safety of the many ducks. Jessen added that originally there was a meeting of several landowners with much interest in the idea. He said Blacklook had several suggestions as to what could be done to enhance the wildlife. The NSP land has restrictions Minutes - Parks, Rec. and Page 6 Natural Resources Commission approved November 1, 1976 5. Nine-Mile Creek Improvements (cont1d) for wildlife or passive recreation, and they feel this would be the best use. Choiniere asked whether they had looked into water fowl management. Kaerwer responded that it had been suggested some years ago. Carona inquired as to whether the Presbyterian Church and three lots to the east were involved in the discussion and what was their status. Mrs. Kaerwer said they had been-.1hv6lved, and feels this would be a good time to go back to the plan with something concrete being done besides talking. Jessen added that the plan could still be accomplished without the other three lots. Pierce arrived at 9s10 PM. MOTION: Anderson moved to recommend to the Council to go ahead with this project. Upton seconded, motion carried,.with Pierce abstaining because of late arrival. Anderson commented on the enjoyment that he and his family has received from the ducks and beaver near their home. Choiniere felt that this was an excellent area for wild fowl management and suggested going to the Fish and Game Service. Mrs. Kaerwer agreed with the creative details as suggested by Choiniere. 3. Park Acquisition Status Retort a. Community Park--1968 Bond FkMdLGXaat1j Jessen spoke to the report and new developments. He said that Edenvale has contacted us and we are working out details, and there is a lot of activity at Hidden Ponds, with many houses going up. He added that the Deaver property appraisals have come in. Choiniere questioned the $4,000 per acre and how they come up with these appraisals, because he feels it gives people a reason for coming in and asking for high prices. Jessen responded that they are based on competent real estate methods. Pierce felt that we should have something to say since we are paying this price. In response to Choiniere's comment regarding land sold at a much lesser price, Jessen said that these prices are possible in land that would not be used for service. C i Minutes -- Parks, Roe. and Page 7 Natural Resources Commission ." approved November 1, 1976 b. Neighborhood Playgrounds--Discussion of Cash Park Fee Stratear Jessen reported that cash park fees are coming in such ass Maple Leaf, Pemtom, and Hustad Franlo Rd. site. He said that money is being , generated at a lesser degree. 4. Puvga&ory Creek-review of Council Resolution Nd;, : 25 & update on new information K Jessen brought members up to date on the situation. He stressed that l in order to qualify for funding, we should act quickly. He said there are funds available and timing is very important. He said that the Lower Purgatory is the most critical because of land development and that we have to reach an early decision. He listed Edenvale and Kutcher/Deaver as high priorities also, and added that land acquisition at Starring Lake sector is completed. Randy Retterath was introduced as being nominated for membership on the Commission. Helmer left at 9s40 PM. r VI. OLD BUSINESS Countryside West - Helmer Jessen reported that the position of the Commission went to the Council, and the Mayor sent a.lett.or-to the Environment Council requesting complete environmental impact statement and public hearing. He added that the action of the Bloomington Council was stopped by the 500 people petition. VII. NEW BUSINESS A. NE corner of Highway 5 & Co. Rd. 4 - Garens, �*arens said we should be aware of what is happening to the pond on the corner of Highway 5 and Co. Rd. 4. Jessen explained that the State had acquired some storm water easement when Highway 5 was improved and it was drained out. He said it was the NE corner toward PurgatorrCreek, and that this corner had been used for agricultural purposes. He said that when the drain closed, the land owners became concerned, and it was opened par- tially. He continued that the tile broke, and the pond came back into existence, and that it will be drained and drainage established as per atom drainage plan. Choiniere spoke to his past request to submit to the Eden Prairie News a review of the Dutch Elm disease decision by the Council. He felt we are not communicating with, the people. Pierce asked for feedback as to specific reasons for the request and said Che feels there is a miscommunication. Minutes - Parks, Rec. and Page 8 Natural Resources Commission .approved November 1, 1976 VII. NEW BUSINESS (cont'd) Erickson said it could end up to be a tax on a tax. Upton left at 9:45 PM. Jessen commented that Bloomington receives a payment from the State because they spend a good amount on their program, and that Eden Prairie receives nothing because we spend nothing. R Choiniere and Erickson both felt that the people did not have a choice in the matter, and that it came out of nowhere. Anderson said that he had sat through the meetings and there were a lot of upset people in the community. He continued that research has proven that if action is taken now, many trees can be saved, and the cost will be spread over a number of years, whereas if you do nothing,the expense will still be there and you will lose most of the trees. Garens and Choiniere felt we would lose the trees anyway, and still have the cost, because many areas are not doing anything. Pierce spoke to the situation in his home State, where diseased trees were taken down immediately, and they felt that was the only reason their elms were not all lost. Jessen commented that Minnetonka was funding their program 100%. Middleton inquired about the reforestattion.._.�Jessen responded that about six hundred trees were picked up for re-planting. Pierce summarized the reasons for the Commission's motion regarding the Dutch Elm program as: basically because of tax situation because of the possibility of double tax, the cost of the program, and overall worth of the program. Jessen pointed out that we do not have the option of cutting down trees and using firewood, as was suggested. He referred to the report on the program for the Metro area initiated by the Legislature representing Mpls. and St. Paul, which has 90% elms. We are faced with the absolute disintigration of our forests i. no action is taken. Pierce moved to further amend the Minutes of October 18, 1976 with the following correction: Pg. 2, para. 5, sent. 5, delete 'snot„. Garens seconded, motion carried unanimously. 4III. ADJOURNblEN'� Garens moved to adjourn at 10:00 PM. Pierce seconded, motion oaried. Submitted by, Donna Stanley Recording Secretary AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION C Monday, November 22, 1976 8:30 PM, CITY HALL COMMISSION MEMBERS: Marvin Erickson, Tim Pierce , Richard Anderson, Paul Choiniere, Steve Fifield, William Garens, Francis Helmer, Jerry Kingrey, Geneva Middleton, Randy Retterath, Mary Upton COMMISSION STAFF: Marty lessen, Director of Community Services Approx. Time to Begin Item 8:3 0 1. ROLL CALL II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA III. MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 1, 1976 MEETING IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS C A. Notice of MRPA Annual Conference .B. C. V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS 8:45 A. Reports of Commissioners 1 . Councilman Pierce 2. School Board Chairman Middleton B. Reports of Staff 8:55 1 . Report on Metro Action on Request for Additional Funding for Anderson Lakes Park 9:00 2. Revised Metro Parks & Open Space 5-Year Capital Improvement Program 9:15 3. Kucher/Deaver Properties 9:25 4. Raze Property 9:30 5. Cedar Hills Golf & Ski Appraisal_ I Parks, Recreation & Natural -2- Mon. , Nov. 22/76 Resources Commission VI. OLD BUSINESS 9:40 A. Dutch Elm Disease Control Program 9:50 B. Mini-Rink Report VII. NEW BUSINESS ti A. B. 10:00 VIII. ADJOURNMENT I M I N U T E S EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION and PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING J P 1 Monday, November 22, 1976 . 7:00 PM City Hall Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission Members Present: Marvin Erickson, Steve Fifield, Dick Anderson, Tim Pierce, Randy •Retterath, Francis Helmer, Paul Choiniere j Planning Commission Members Present: Don Sorensen, Dick Lynch, Sidney Pauly, Norma Schee, Rod Sundstrom, William Bearman Staff Present: Marty Jessen, Dick, Putnam, Jean Johnson J , Jessen backgrounded the Purgatory Creek Study and the Council's approval of the r Study as a guide for use and protection of the creek corridor. He added the city I; presently owns approximately 500 acres along the creek. He informed the commissions Hustads are interested in developing single family along the southern portion of the creek and desire to know the city's stand on implementing the Study. Wally Hustad, Austad Development Corporation, stated the main concern of the Study and themselves, is preservation of the creek valley. He stated they and other residents would like to see the creek valley preserved as is with limited use. They prefer no public access as it would destroy the wildlife habitat. He added that they desire to develop single family lots next year in time for the Parade V of Homes. The development would be called Mill Creek Estates and would contain approximately 350 lots ranging in size from approximately 6,500 square feet to ' 2 acres. Jessen felt Hustads are presenting an extreme option of creek corridor develop- ,,. ment as lots are platted down to the creek. He estimated approximately 50-100 `! lots would be located in the transition and conservancy zones of the creek and if the.1 and would be purchased by the city it would require a significant amount of funds. He asked for the commissions' feelings relative to how the area should be developed and what implementation guidelines should be followed. Pauly believed the area along the creek and south of Co. Rd. 1 is the most unique ~ area of the creek valley and the highest and best use may be private ownership with covenants and/or restrictions for use and protection. Wally Hustad agreed, and believed covenants can be placed on the deeds or a homeowner's documents could be used. As the proposed development was shown containing multiple sized lots, Sorensen inquired what type of zoning or pud request Hustads would be submitting. Hustad replied that since some .lots sra as small as 6,000 square feet, that RM 6.5 zoning : would probably be requested. s CRichard Anderson believed the creek valley should be enjoyed by more than the immediate landowners and the lotting plan proposed even restricts visual Ym enJ'o cent ' of the creek valley. Joint Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources ; approved and Planning Commissi.ob Meeting Nov. 22, 1976 Page 2 Rod Sundstrom questioned if the future 1,000 residents ( approx. 3/household) , migil... ` themselves create alot of pressure on the creek valley. Sorensen asked if Hustads had alternate lotting plans. Hustad replied alternate plans are available but have not been entertained. Pauly questioned if this segment of the valley has priority over the remainder of the creek. Jessen believed this segment of the creek is very unique for passive recreation . Schee believed the creek valley can be enjoyed by many without excessive damage as areas like the Arboretum and Carver Park. Anderson believed this segment of the creek is one of the most unique areas in the city, perhaps in Hennepin County, and should be enjoyed by all . Jessen informed the commissions the Metro Council staff does feel chances are good for funding if the city desires to pursue the purchase of the Purgatory Creek corridor. He added the cost of creek implementation, as estimated in the Study, is about 1.7 million. Schee believed public management would be the best way to handle the creek amenity. Pierce suggested the city control a portion of the creek valley and allow the remainder to develop privately. Lynch asked the timetable involved in acquisition Jessen replied the city could expect an answer relative to funding within one year. Sally Brown,10080 Bennett Place, asked if it is the city's thinking that every amenity is too aesthetic to be privately owned. Planning Commission members Lynch, Schee and Bearman replied negative, but believed the only way for the public to enjoy certain amenities is for the amenity to be public. Sundstrom felt it may be easier to keep trespassers out of the area if it is publicly managed. Sorensen believed some amenities should be acquired and some should be privately owned. lie urged the staff to investigate other means of acquisition than density tradeoffs. Dick Anderson suggested perhaps one side of the creek could be public and one side private. Helmer inquired if easements on both sides of the creek would be possible. Mr. Hustad stated they desire no public use of this unique area of the creek. f Joint Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources 1 .approved and Planning Commission Meeting Nov. 22, 1976 page 3 Motion: Pierce moved, Pauly seconded, to direct the staff to gather information for the commissions' review relative to funding, areas of priority, private ownership, creek use, etc. , and schedule another joint meeting in mid-January , 1977. The motion carried with Bearman voting nay. Pierce suggested that the public be notified two weeks prior to the upcoming joint meeting as directed in the council's approval of the Purgatory Creek Study as a guide. II. OTHER BUSINESS None III. ADJOURNMENT Schee moved, Bearman seconded, to adjourn at 8:25 PM, the motion carried. Respectfully Submitted, Jean Johnson N 4 ,f 1 C r L APPROVED rd PAEKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, NOVMER 22, 1976 8s30 P.M. CITY HALL HMERS PRESENT: Chairman Marvin Erickson, Paul. Choiniere, Francis Helmer, Richard Anderson, Tim Pierce., and Randy Retterath x M FM EXCUSEDs Jerry Kingrey', Mary Upton, William Garens, ' Geneva Middleton, and Steve Fifield f:. STAFF PRESENT: Marty Jessen, Director of Community Services Sandy Werts, Recreation Supervisor OTHERS PRESENT= Tom Bartel, E. P. Community News a Chairman Erickson called the meeting to order at 8:30 P.M.. $ II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Addition of VTI. A. Round Take Park Develoument- Choiniere. `. r Pierce moved approval of the Agenda as amended. Choiniere seconded, motion carried. III. MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 1. 1976 MEETING Pierce moved to accept the Minutes of November 1, 1976 meeting as presented. Anderson seconded, motion carried. IV. PETITIONS. REQUESTS. AND COMMUNICATIONS s A. Notice of MRPA Annual Conference a Jessen spoke to the conference scheduled for December 1, 2, & 3 at the Thunderbird Motel, which included a tour of Bloomington park system and dinner on December 1. Anderson commented that the speaker will cover the responsibility and F importance of the position in the community' of Commissions, and added that he felt it would be very informative as far as receiving information x as to what is happening in the metropolitan area. V. RECOMMMATIONS AND REPORTS. A. Reports of Commissioner,@ 1. CoRacilman Pierce No report. C 2. School Board Di rA_._..�±a.MMi.ddleton Not present. Minutes - Parka, Rec. and November 22, 1976 Natural Resource Commission approved Page 2 B. Reports of Staff 1. Re r on Metro Action-on Reagest for aditional Funding for Anderson Lakes Park Jessen spoke to approval of our request for additional funds to condemn the four parcels at Anderson bakes by the Metro Parks & Open Space Commission. He said the increase was $358.109,, which includes an allocation of $33,109 of interest earned on the original grant of 01,173,950. He added that the Metro Council will consider the Commission's recommendation early in December. ' The report was received and filed upon agreement of Commissioners. 2. Revised Metro Parks & 0nen Space 5-Year Capit _Improvement Program Jessen spoke to the revised CIP program, including items shown on excerpt ' page of the Staff Report of November 19, 1976. He said that the Metro Council has included bake Riley in their program, and that their Staff , has indicated that should Eden Prairie not wish to proceed with a regional park at Lake Riley, -they may authorize some other implementing agencyi : to do so. MOTION: Choiniere moved that all people concerned and that were record- V . ed at the meeting which involved Lake Riley be contacted and advised of the fact that the Metro Council is considering this for a regional park. Helmer seconded. Motion carried unanimously. Pierce commented that the residents had been opposed to a large,regional park because they felt we would lose control, but were in favor of a small a � park. - f ' The Commissioners expressed concern that the Metro Council had indicated that they will find another implementing agency if we were not favoring tb i a regional park at Lake Riley. Pierce felt that we should react to the possibilities that the Hennepin County Reserve park system may come in and implement, which would take away control from the City of Eden Prairie. t Anderson pointed out that the County park system does not build ball fields, therefore, if it is funded by that agency, we lose the chance for more of these kinds of facilities. He added that with the information given to us today. we have the alternatives of Eden Prairie park or Hennepin County park. He requested that Lake Riley be put on next Agenda. Jessen commented that we made the request for funds for a regiawl park at Lake Riley, and they agreed to fund it 100%. He added that the Council C voted to re-think the plan and forwarded this position to the Metro Council. He said they are in a fairly consistent position on this. Minutes - Parks.. Rec. and Page three Natural Resources Commission ,approved November 22, 1976 2. Revised Metro Parks...... Pro eram (co At Choiniere expressed his opinion that he felt that the City Council had acted on a different set of facts. Jessen said the Metro Council has eliminated from this program the eight lots and six homes along Timber Trail and that he has indicated that we feel no urgency to proceed there and that a change in land use is very unlikely, but that in the event someone would like to sell-a contingency fund for this purpose is being established. , Anderson asked whether any large landowners have indicated a desire to sell their property. Jessen responded that Mr Acme s had indicated such a desire in a conversation in'1975, but he passed away shortly. thereafter and further that no communication had occurred since 1976 Council meeting. MOTION:. Choiniere moved to accept-memo..of November 19, 1976 with the follow- ing corrections para. 2.. sent. 9 ohanging "will" to "mayllp and to forward this acceptance to the City Council for the meeting tomorrow night., so that the Council may be informed of the recent Metro Council attitude toward Lake Riley as Jessen bas informed us this evening. Anderson seconded.. motion carried unanimously. 3. Kucher/Deaver Properties Jessen spoke to the memo of November 19, 1976, outlining the offers made by Deaver and Kuchers. He said Mr. Deaver is sincere in selling entire tract rather than breaking up into small parcels. He added that Kuchers are willing to sell at $5,000 per aces with a two year option through 1978. Choiniere inquired whether there were any outstanding assessments and how they would be handled. Jessen responded that there were special assessments and that they would have to be assumed by the City in both cases. He said the total amount as of January 2, 1976 for the Kucher property was $47,933.46 and as of January 16, 1976, the total amount was $11,.6,364 for Deaver property. Pierce asked what the chances for funding were for next year. Jessen respond- J ed that the chances for LAWCON funding were very good. Choiniere commented that the Kucher land involves a good amount of virgin timber, and that he favors this property because of this reason and because it ties right in with the Minnetonka park system. He spoke to a proposed golf course and felt this could be a joint effort with Minnetonka to generate some revenue. Anderson felt it could be included in the Purgatory Creek linear park system, and that we are getting to the point where we have to move on it or forget it. Helmer was concerned that the City had to -pay the assessments, whe he felt that other parties would not have to pay them if they were to buy a land. Jessen explained that the charge to the appraiser was what the land was worth and did not include the specials, responding to comments made that it was unclear as to the value of the appraisal of the land. r - - I Minutes - Parks, Rea. and Page Four Natural Resources Commission approved November 22, 1976 3. Kucher/D ave Properties (cont!d) Jessen added that it was a statement of fact as to what the appraiser stated as fact. and what the seller is ready to sell his land for. Fi ;,•, Choiniere asked what kind of options would you get from Deaver. Jessen said Mr. Deaver wants to close early in 1977, however, he would take a Contract for Deed over a couple of years. Choiniere asked how the properties could be funded. Jessen responded that LAWCON funding would triple over next 3 years, and he felt th6 bulk could be funded through LAWCON or Metro Funding. Anderson felt we should get this action going on the entire Purgatory Creek by presenting our total plan for Purgatory Creek to the Metro Council,for Funding. MOTIONS Choiniere moved that we recommend to the Council that we enter an option with Kucher property at $4,600 per acre assuming specials, and that we prepare an agreement with Deaver on a Contract for Deed basis to be executed by December 31, 1977 at $3,000 per acre as presented, again assuming out- standing specials; and that the above Motion be related directly to LAWCON (from which there has been a favorable reaction to the application received), Department, of Natural Resources, Metro Park Fund, Riley-Purgatory Creek Water- shed District, private foundations, and any other sources of funding. This Motion is made in consideration of the Purgatory Creek Linear Park, tying -in with the Minnetonka park to the north for continguity. Anderson seconded, Cthe motion carried, with Retterath abstaining. 4. Raze Property— Jessen spoke to this property as being located on the east end of the park. He suggested we should secure a "no cost option" on this property while an appraisal is completed and negotiations begun in an effort to acquire an option for this parcel through 1977. Choiniere asked what the purpose was for purchasing the land. Jessen responded that it is the last piece of Starring Lake land to be acquired, and that it is part of Purgatory Creek. MOTION: Choiniere moved to accept recommendation as presented to us in the memo of November 19, 1976, regarding Raze property. Helmer seconded. Motion carried, with Retterath abstaining. 5. Cedar Hills golf & Ski Appraisal Jessen gave verbal update of the situation, stating that the PR & NR had recommended to the Council that an appraisal be secured. He said the value of the 300 acres, including improvements to the land for golf and ski is $1,200,000. Ile said that includes< land value of $3,500 per acre and all of r . Minute,- - Parks, Rea. and Page Five Natural Resources Commission Lapproved November 22, 1976 5. Cedar Hills Golf Lac Ski Appraisal (cont1d) the golf facilities but not equipment. He felt that we should have some pt'of83si6naL. evaluation as to'the suitability of the golf course- and other parts of the land.for golf 6r ski_activity, .,And'whether the land is capable` of handling other recreation facilities, for'the City:` Helmer inquired as to what they were asking last sinner. Jessen responded $800,000, which included all' eauipment, and added that they are still prepared to sell at this price. Choiniere questioned the need for two appraisals. Jessen responded that one appraisal had been on land value, and he felt an assessment analysis on quality of construction and appraisal of usability would be helpful for protection of the City. There was discussion as to need for buying Cedar Hills, with Anderson pointing out that there will be no federal funding available for this project. Jessen said he would prepare a "need statement" and list the advantages of acquiring Cedar Hills. Choiniere requested more detailed information of land distribution; what is ( usable and what the need was, to be contained on a transparency that we can see. VI. OLD BUSINESS A. Dutch Elm Disease ControlP-rogram Choiniere felt that rather than raising mill levy because of being deprived of elm trees, we should lower property taxes because of the elm trees. Pierce commented that he felt this would cost more money than the present method. There was discussion of what to do with trees that were cut down. Choiniere felt it was a big waste to just dump them into a hole. B. Mini-Rink Report Werts gave update of mini-rinks, referring to the E.P. Happenings which cony tained list of rinks and request for contact people. She said there would not be a rink on Deaver property, because attorney for the property prefers not to have anything on the property in case of a serious buyer. The possibility of a rink at Birch Island park was discussed, in addition C to a few other possibilities. Minutes - Parks, Rea. and Page Six Natural Resources Commission tapproved November 22, 1976 B. Mini-Rink Report (cont l d)_ Jessen said they will proceed with all mini-rinks except the ones that we we have problems with such as: Edenview I & II and Paradise Valley. Pierce commented that he felt that Edenview I & II needed a rink and he said that he would check into it. VII. NEW BUSINESS A. Round Lake Park Development - Ghoiniere Choiniere expressed concern that seed money from park bond fund was gone, and added that it was his understanding that when we developed Round bake, there would be some money left. He requested that this item be included on next Agenda. ry Jessen explained expenditures and the estimated cost of Round Lake develop- ment. He said that we either use this money or reduce amount of facilities to be put in at Round Lake. VIII..., J� OURNIGM Helmer moved to adjourn at 10:40 P.M.. Retterath seconded, motion carried. Submitted by, Donna Stanley Recording Secretary