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Parks and Recreation - 08/20/1979 i . J- ._ .. �Y 1979 AUGUST 6 20 TM MINUTES CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE 1 AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE PARKSP RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION I° MONDAY, AUGUST 6, 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: Bob Lambert, Director of Community Services Approx. Time to Begin Item 7:30 I. ROLL CALL II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA III. MINUTES OF JULY 16, .1979 IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS 7:35 A. Petition From Topview Neighborhood 7.50 B. Letter From Eden Prairie Athletic Association V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS A. Reports of Commissioners None B. P�eports of Staff 1. Development Proposals 7:55 a. Mitchell Heights Townhouses 8:05 b. Independent Millwork Properties 8:15 C. Cardinal Creek Phase II 8:30 2. Ownership of Abandoned Railroad Right-of-Way - Hidden Ponds 8:40 3. C.S.A.H. 1 & 4 Bike Trails VI. OLD BUSINESS 8:50 A. Eden Prairie Stables Lease - Supplement Agreement 9:00 B. Wetland Restrictions 9:10 C. Round Lake Park Development VII. NEW BUSINESS 9:20 A. 1980 Budget 9:45 VIII. ADJOURNMENT ,APPROVED MINUTES EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Monday, August 6, 1979 7:30 P.M. , City Hall COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Richard Anderson, Chairperson; David Anderson, Robert Johnson, Robert Kruell , George Tangen, Larry VanMeter COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: Steve Fifield COMMISSION STAFF PRESENT: Sandy Werts, Recreation Supervisor OTHERS PRESENT: Mr. Donald Gild, Mr. Gil Darkenwald, Mr. Bruce 4: Knutson, Edward and Sue King, Chris Hooker, Judy and David Ekback, Vicki Koenig, Sandra Tebelius, Joyce Lieneman Jan Beauleiu, Margaret Burnsten, Sandy Johnson, Carol Dungan, Jeanne Cutshall , Kathy Mohrenweiser, Neile Hede, Judy McBride, Dottie and Paul Danicich, Sylvia Verkuilen, Mary Lindsey, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Louis r Fisher, Mr. and Mrs. John Reedy, Mr. and Mrs. Tony Moser, W.M. Verkuilen, Bette Anderson, James Petersen, Robert R. Grant, Liz Anderson, Karen Oswald, Karen Hanson, Barbara Kaerwer, Jerrold T. Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Joel Agrimson, Al Dybiec, E.P. Sun; Dick Dahl , E.P. News f'3 C I. ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order at 7:35 by Chairperson Richard Anderson. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Additions: V.A.1. Purgatory Creek - Kruell r V.A.2.. Round Lake Beach - R. Anderson VI. D. Milkovich Counter Offer - Werts VII.B. Conflict of Interest - Kruell '. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to approve the agenda with the additions; seconded 4 by Kruell , the motion passed unanimously. III. MINUTES OF JULY 16, 1979 r Changes: Page 4, Paragraph 2, delete third sentence. w 6, MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to approve the minutes as revised; Kruell seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. R : IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Topview Neighborhood Petition John Reedy, 7262 Gerard, represented the citizens from the Topview neighborhood who were present. He spoke to the need for a mini-park that would be easily accessible to the children, He briefly outlined the history, some of the possibilities, and reasons for the need. He pointed out that there are r. Minutes - Parks, Recreation & ;approved August 6, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -2- between 140 and 150 children under 18 living in the neighborhood. Kruell noted that his neighborhood is in a very similar position, and he was sympathetic with their problem. Homeowners are paying now to retire the 1968 Park Bond debt, the neighborhood is geographically isolated from recreational facilities and there are many children who need nearby facilities. He suggested that if the citizens were willing to pay $325 per household, which is the same amount collected from new construction for parks, then it would be difficult for city officials to disregard their request. He also pointed out to those present that it would be a very good idea to have representation on the Park Bond Committee; and for all those present to offer their support of the Park Bond issue. Chris Hooker, 12738 Gordon Drive, noted that some residents of Topview, including himself, were not notified of the action being taken by the neighbors. He did not agree that the proposed park site would be suitable. He pointed out that it is under water much of the time, and collects drainage not only from the storm sewers but also from the freeway runoff. His property adjoins the proposed park site. Sandy Werts pointed out another possible location that had been brought to her attention. Outlot One, connected to a city-owned parcel , and another lot, which, if purchased would give access from Topview Road. Barbara Kaerwer,12800 Gerard Drive, noted that the two-lot site on Gerard Drive proposed by the group would be especially desireable because it adjoins a public area, offering access through dedicated properties designated low density, nature study areas, potentially amounting to nearly 100 acres. Dave Anderson asked if there was a dollar figure to work with yet. Is the property for sale and at what price? Tangen asked about the size of the lots, the topography, and the general suitability . Reedy replied that the lots totaled about two acres, and would require some fill . Ed King, 7252 Gordon Drive, agreed, stating that some grading may improve the drainage on the site. Carol Dungan, 12771 Vina Lane, told the Commission she had contacted the owner of the lots, inquiring about the price. He told her he would sell the lots for $16,000 each, with utilities. Judy Ekback, 7255 Gerard Drive, stated that she lives adjacent to the two lots, and noted that they are under water much of the time, probably due to Freeway runoff. C R. Anderson .asked the group if any consideration had been given to Outlot One,and the reaction was negative. Minutes - Parks, Recreation & approved August 6, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -3- Vicky Koenig, 7239 Topview Road, spoke in defense of Outlot One. She noted that although it is hilly, it very desireable in terms of a natural setting, with large oak trees, etc. Jim Dungan, 12771 Vina Lane, noted that the Outlot One location would probably be very expensive to develop into a neighborhood park. MOTION: Tangen moved to recommend that the Council direct the staff to study the suitability of the proposed lots ( 14 and 15, block one), and if they are satisfactory, to contact the owner for the acquisition price, and report the findings back to the Commission. Kruell seconded the motion. DISCUSSION: Bob Grant, 7203 Topview Road, asked if a hold could be put on the lots, to prevent their sale or development before the city can act. R. Anderson explained that this was not possible, and that the commission must adhere to certain procedures. An option cannot be obtained without Council approval , and the Council would require the staff investigation called for in the motion before they could act on the acquisition. VOTE: The motion passed unanimously. B. Letter From the Eden Prairie Athletic Association Werts presented a letter from Ed King proposing the expansion of the athletic fields at Flying Cloud. Lambert contacted the Metropolitan Airport Commission to determine the feasibility of such a plan. Kruell asked why the playing fields should be located in one area rather than scattered throughout the community; and is this a means of obtaining land at a low cost? Ed King replied that the cost is minimal - only seeding and temporary backstops would be needed for development; and the centrally located fields are more convenient to parents with several children participating in programs. MOTION: Tangen moved to recommend to the Council that they support the concept and direct staff to pursue the possibility of expanding the facilities at Flying y g Cloud Fields. Kruell seconded the motion. DISCUSSION: R. Anderson asked King if the lease (currently an annual lease) could be extended. King replied that they would only offer the lease on an annual basis, but there is no reason to beleive that they would cancel it, unless there is misuse on the part of the users. I VOTE: Motion carried unanimously. A ten minute break was called at 9:00 p.m. i Minutes - Parks, Recreation & approved August 6, 197 Natural Resources Commission -4- i I V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS A. Reports of Commissioners 1. Purgatory Creek Kruell reported that he and Stu Fox, City Tree Inspector, had surveyed the section of Purgatory Creek that has the dead tree problem. He indicated that Fox would be sending a report back to the Commission about the reasons for the trees dying, etc. , and then some answers to the problem may be worked out. 2. Round Lake Beach R. Anderson noted that he and Commissioner Fifield had received complaints about the lack of a diving platform at Round Lake Beach. Anderson noted that five years ago the facilities at the beach were better, and it had more use--even though the population was considerably lower. Presently, many older youngsters choose to go to other beaches. He asked Werts if there hadn't been money for a diving platform in the 1978 Budget. Werts told him that the specs will be drawn up, and the installation will probably occur next year; the money budgeted for the purchase is still available. B. Reports of Staff i C_ 1. Development.-Proposals a. Mitchell Heights Townhouses_ Mr. Donald Gild presented the development proposal to the Commission, noting that all the recommendations made by the planning staff had been satisfied. R. Anderson asked about their plans for tot-lots, as mentioned in their proposal . Gild replied that each cluster of townhouses would have access to it's own tot-lot. There will be four interior tot-lots in the development. Kruell asked why the development was coming in stages; what did they consider to be minor variations; and is the proposed development adjacent to developed or open areas.? Gild answered that the entire property had not been acquired before the first development started; also, it is not always economically feasible to develop in one stage. The minor variations referred to five units, each with a different floor plan, and in addition, the exterior materials will differ slightly. Finally, the proposed development is north of Atherton and Chestnut Townhouses and Apartments, (developed), and east of a large marsh or swamp, (undeveloped). Kruell asked if they were providing recreation for children only. Minutes - Parks, Recreation & 'approved August 6, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -5- _ Gild replied that a pool is planned for Phase 2 to be used by children and adults.Their studies indicated that it would be nearly impossible to provide adequate total recreational facilities for adults. The maintenence would be too costly. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to recommend to the Council approval of the Mitchell Heights Townhouses as per the staff recommendation in the Memorandum of August 2, 1979. Tangen seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously. b. Independent Millwork Properties Mr. Gil Darkenwald spoke to the Commission concerning his proposed development. He requested that the Cash Park Fee be dropped, since they had dedicated to the city, some property needed for a roadway. Kruell stated that he would like to know what othe developments would occur within the P.U.D. R. Anderson stated that the Commission's concern in this matter was the request to drop the Cash Park Fee. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to recommend that the Council require the Cash Park Fee; if there was an agreement between the City Council and the developer concerning the road property, it is up to the C_ Council to waive the fee. Johnson "seconded the motion. DISCUSSION: Kruell noted that by recommending the staff proposal the Cash Park Fee requirement would automatically be included. Dave Anderson and Bob Johnson withdrew their motion and second. MOTION: Kruell moved to recommend to the Council approval of the Independent Millwork Properties Development proposal as per the staff recommendation in the memorandum of August 2, 1979. Tangen seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. c. Cardinal Creek Phase II Mr. Bruce Knutson presented the plan to the Commission. He pointed out that the floodplain along Nine-Mile Creek, and the dry lake bed have been dedicated to the City. R. Anderson noted that staff was recommending a trail easement between proposed lots 10 and 11, to eventually connect to Topview Acres. Jerrold Miller, 7120 Gerard Drive, stated that unless the Cardinal Creek developers are required to dedicate a trail easement around C. r i Minutes - Parks, Recreation & .approved August 6, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -6- the lake(as he was asked to do), he will not dedicate a trail easement either. Karen Hanson, 13008 Gerard Drive, asked where the trail was supposed to go. She was concerned that she had not been notified of the potential trail , being an adjacent land owner. MOTION: Kruell moved to send the Cardinal Creek proposal back to staff to work out feasible posibilities, since it appears the f trail on the south side of the lake is not certain. R. Anderson seconded. The motion passed with Dave Anderson voting against it. Mr. Knutson requested the Commission to make a recommendation as to what they wanted, and it would be worked out, before the presentation to the Council . MOTION: Kruell moved to re-consider the previous motion. Tangen seconded, and the motion passed. R. Anderson called for a vote on the original motion. The motion did not pass. MOTION: Tangen moved to recommend to the Council approval of the Cardinal Creek Phase II, according to the staff recommendation in the memorandum of August 3, 1979. Dave Anderson seconded. DISCUSSION: Kruell questioned whether the sidewalk would be necessary; and pointed out that the $325 figure for the Cash Park Fee should not be stipulated, but rather, it should require the current Cash Park Fee at the time of the building permit is issued. i Tangen suggested the sidewalk remain as part of the recommendation, wi but the dollar figures should be deleted. Dave Anderson agreed to this. Karen Hanson questioned whether the ten foot easement accross the property's northern boundary (planned as a trail) was coming from the developer or the present landowners. VOTE: Motion carried with Dave Anderson voting "nay". 4. 2. Ownership of Abandoned Railroad Right-of-Way Kruell noted that part of the right-of-way had been developed as a roadway (Valley View Road) . The right-of-way should still be wide enough to allow for a trail , however. MOTION: Kruell moved to recommend that staff retain and incorporate data for future trail planning, and to verify that the trail is incorporated into the overall trail system. R. Anderson seconded the motion, which passed unanimously. Minutes - Parks, Recreation & . :approved August 6, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -i'- C 3. C.S.A.H. 1 & 4 Bike Trails Werts noted that this was as informational item, to update the Commissioners on the progress of the projects. Dave Anderson asked if there was a timetable yet; will it be done this year? Werts replied that it would depend on the County. As soon as they give their approval of the project, it will be started. VI. OLD BUSINESS A. E.P. Stables Werts explained that this was an informational item--allowing the Commission to see the final version of the lease agreement as it would appear before the Metropolitan Council . B. . Wetland Restrictions Kruell had requested this item to be included on the agenda. MOTION: Kruell moved to request staff to prepare a Wetland Restrictions Memo- randum for the next open Council agenda. Tangen seconded. DISCUSSION: R. Anderson encouraged Kruell to try to be at the Council meeting for the discussion. Kruell agreed that he would try to be there. Dave Anderson requested that the information come back to the Commission before going to the Council . VOTE: The motion passed unanimously. C. Round Lake Development MOTION: Tangen moved to recommend to the Council authorization to advertize for bids, since final approval from HCRS on the 1977 LAWCON Grant was received. Johnson seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. D. Milkovich Counter Offer Werts presented the staff recommendation, which was to accept the counter offer received from the Milkovich's. I MOTION: Tangen moved to recommend that the Council authorize the staff to accept the counter offer at the appraised value of the property. VanMeter seconded, the motion passed unanimously. i i i Minutes - Parks, Recreation & approved August 6, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -8- II. NEW BUSINESS A. Budget Werts pointed out the areas of the budget where the greatest increases occured, and explained the reasons. Kruell noted that the commission's planning should be ahead of the present years' budget. Dave Anderson stated that he had difficulty understanding the figures as they were presented. MOTION: Tangen moved to table the discussion of the 1980 Budget. Dave Anderson seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. B. Conflict of Interest Kruell noted that there is some confusion regarding disclosure laws. He requested that staff bring the Commission up-to-date on the intent of the law as it applies to commission members, as an agenda item. VIII. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 11:10 p.m. C_ Respectfull Submitted, Georgia Jessen Recording Secretary AGENDA EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, AUGUST 20, 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: Bob Lambert, Director of Community Services Approx. Time to Begin Item 7:30 I. ROLL CALL II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA III. MINUTES OF AUGUST 6, 1979 IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS 7:35 A. Letter From David W. Ekback - Topview 7:40 B. Letter Concerning Swimming at Round Lake Det. Jim Clark C. Letter Concering WSI at Round Lake from Mrs. Greg Ervasti V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS A. Reports of Commissioners None B. Reports of Staff 1. Development Proposals 7:50 a. Bluffs West Third Addition 8:30 2. Fall Recreation Program 8:40 3. Round Lake Dock/Diving Platform 8:55 4. Council Action VI. OLD BUSINESS 9:10 A. Topview Mini-Park 9:30 B. 1980 Budget/Mil Levy Request 10:00 C. Copy of Letter of July 2, 1979 form Les Blacklock VII. NEW BUSINESS 10:05 A. Riverview Spring 10:20 VIII. ADJOURNMENT • a . l APPROVED MINUTES ( EDEN PRAIRIE PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Monday, August 20, 1979 7:30 P.M. , City Hall COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Steve Fifield, Robert Johnson, Robert Kruell , George Tangen, Vice-Chairperson; David Anderson (arrived late) COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: Richard Anderson, Larry VanMeter COMMISSION STAFF PRESENT: Robert Lambert, Community Services Director OTHERS PRESENT: Dick Dahl , E.P. News; Al Dybiec, E.P. Sun I. ROLL CALL At 7:30 p.m. , George Tangen, Vice-Chairperson, called the meeting to order. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Additions: VII.B. Construction Erosion - Kruell VII.C. September Meetings - Tangen A motion was made and seconded to approve the agenda as published and ammended, and it passed unanimously. III. MINUTES OF AUGUST 6, 1979 Changes: Page 3, Motion was made by Tangen and seconded by Kruell Page 4, . . . section of Purgatory Creek that has the dead tree problem. He indicated that Fox would be sending a report back to the Commission about the reasons . MOTION: Johnson moved, and Kruell seconded, to approve the minutes as published and revised. Motion carried unanimously. IV. PETITIONS, REQUESTS, AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Letter From David W. Eckback A copy of a letter from Mr. Eckback to Mayor Penzel was received by the Commission. The letter outlined his concerns and reasons for not supporting the proposed mini-park in Topview Acres. B. Letter Concerning Lifeguards at Round Lake Park; Det. Jim Clark A letter from Detective Jim Clark of the Eden Prairie Public Safety Department was received by the Commission. Clark commended the lifeguards who were on duty Sunday, August 12, 1979, for their assistance in a medical emergency. Fifield commented that the Public Safety Department answered the call immediately-- he estimated that they were at the park in 11-2-2 minutes. He felt they handled the emergency very smoothly. i i Minutes--Parks, Recreation & :approved August 20.1979 Natural Resources Commission -2- C. Letter Concerning WSI at Round Lake Beach from Mrs. Greg Ervasti The Commission received a letter from Mrs. Greg Ervasti , praising the work of David Adamson, a Water Safety Instructor at Round Lake Beach. Kruell stated that he was delighted to see people comment on the caliber of the staff, and wanted to commend the staff for hiring such personnel . V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS A. Reports of Commissioners 1 i None B. Reports of Staff 1 1. Development Proposals -- Bluffs West 3rd Addition MOTION: Fifield moved to table this item until a representative of the developer arrived, since the meeting was running ahead of the estimated time schedule. Kruell seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. 2. Fall Recreation Program Lambert explained that this was an informational item, and asked if there were any questions or comments. Tangen asked if this represented any major changes. j Lambert replied that the major change was the new format of the brochure; it would be larger and have a separate section outlining Senior Citizen programs and activities. 3. Round Lake Diving Platform Lambert presented the Commission with the alternatives and information the i staff had gathered early in the year concerning the proposed diving platform at Round Lake Beach. Fifield commented that the life guards had problems with docks at right angles due to the blind spots they created. He noted also, that if a long dock were used, anyone could reach the deep water--even young children with little or no swimming ability. A floating raft at least requires the user to swim well enough to reach the raft. Lambert noted the rationale for the short, right angle docks -- they would create areas for more swimming classes. He agreed that more guards would probably be necessary. C Kruell stated that he liked the idea of a floating raft, because they require that users be strong enough to swim out to them. Also, since it is only half the cost of a long dock, it seems to be the best answer. i i I Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved August 20, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -3- Tangen also was opposed to the long dock because of the hazard it presents to small children, and non-swimmers. He felt a stationary platform for diving would be the best, since a flouting raft often encourages horseplay. Lambert noted that the prices may not be. accurate anymore, since the research was done early in the year. Tangen requested that the item be tabled until staff can bring back details on the cost of each alternative. i 4. Council Actions 1) Round Lake Park - Council approved advertizing for bids 2) Topview Mini-Park - Council requested staff to contact the owner to determine land cost for the proposed park 3) Milkovich Appraisal - Council countered with lower offer, which Milkovich's declined; staff then offered full appraised value, which they accepted 4) EPAA Request for Expansion of Fields at Flying Cloud - Council authorized staff to negotiate with MAC for more land. Staff received a reply from MAC indicating that they will approve leasing another 800' x 1200' area with some limitations (lighting, height restrictions, etc.) and were generally receptive to the idea. Tangen asked where the funds would come from for all the development costs. Lambert explained that EPAA would like to request money from the bond referendum, since presently there are no funds available for the development. Kruell questioned if the intent was to use available land, and keep development ccsts low, why do a lot of grading, etc.? Also, the lease is only renewed on an anual basis. Lambert replied that a road and parking area would have to be constructed, some grading would be necessary for drainage; seed, goals, and backstops would also be needed. Tangen requested that this be an upcoming agenda item to keep the Commission informed of the progress of this project. VI. OLD BUSINESS A. Topview Mini-Park Lambert reported that City Manager Roger Ulstad had met with Mr. Miller and Mr. Ball , the present and previous owners of the lots being proposed for the Topview Mini-Park. They confirmed cost figures; and Mr. Miller had documented his investment and related costs for the purpose of calculating a selling price. He set his price at $40,000. Kruell questioned the need for a park in Topview, with the Edenvale East park being planned near the Topview Area. r - Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved August 20,1979 Natural Resources Commission -4- Lambert agreed that Edenvale East Park would serve many of the Topview residents, but not the young children. Kruell felt that this opens the Commission up to similar arguments from other areas. Tangen asked for the size and amount of usable land on the site. Lambert estimated the lots to be about one acre each, with 3/4 of it usable (with fill). He also noted that a pipe dumps water onto the lots, and will have to be buried. The reason the lots are so low is because when sewer was being installed, these lots were used for dirt storage. When the dirt was removed, another eight feet of dirt was taken out. Kruell asked if an appraisal wasn't necessary to determine the market value; could any price be agreed on? Is $40,000 a good investment for a mini-park? Lambert told the Commission that an appraisal is necessary only when the property is being condemned, or being purchased with grant monies. He agreed that $40,000 is a lot of money, but it would probably cost at least that much to go through condemnation court. Tangen stated that it is top dollar, but not out of sight. It could be considered a luxury item at that price, and it's purchase probably should be tied to the success of the bond issue. A six month option may be the most desireable alternative at this point. Kruell though that the city should verify the figures given to them on the purchase price, and possibly negotiate. Lambert reported that Jerry Kingrey, the Co-Chairperson of the Bond Referendum Committee, asked the Commission to consider the possibility of an option, rather than spend money before the bond issue is voted on. Tangen turned the chair over to Kruell . MOTION: Tangen moved to recommend to the Council that an option 'to purchase two acres of land in Topview Acres be undertaken. Our recommendation is that $40,000 is within the realm of negotiations, and that additional costs incurred by the owner, due to the options, also be considered. The option should be valid for six months. Fifield seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. Tangen reassumed the chair, and Dave Anderson arrived at 8:45 p.m. B. 1980 Budget/Mil Levy Request Lambert explained the figures that were misleading within the budget. Some should have been noted as negatives, and also, the salaries are not included until after the Council acts on the increases. He asked if there were any questions , comments, or additions to the budget. Dave Anderson noted that he has heard that EPAA is having some trouble getting enough people, and were considering asking the city to handle the administration of the programs. He felt that a donation to help defray the Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved August 20, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -5- ( cost of equipment would be a good investment, to keep the fees from getting too high. Lambert told him that other communities do this. However it is up to the Commission to recommend such an action. Kruell felt that the city already maintains property for EPAA and they shouldn't ask for more than that, since many people have little or no interst in the programs. Dave Anderson warned that if EPAA folded, due to lack of physical help, people would insist the City take over the programs. Lambert pointed out three things the Commissioners should look at in the budget: 1) The individual budgets; 2) Park improvements; 3) Capital outlay. Tangen asked why the capital outlay was reduced this year. Lambert told him that last year the high figure was due to the Community Services Department's share of the water truck. The tree truck came out of the forestry budget, and was not reflected in that figure. Dave Anderson asked if there was an extra person for maintence, since another truck and several mowers were included in the budget request. Lambert told him that the effect of buying the tree truck which requires one less man to opperate, is to free that man for other responsibilities within the department. i Kruell asked if a lot of the park land already acquired could be developed k by the City crews with the purchase of proper equipment, rather than contracting the work. Lambert told him that renting the equipment and using staff seems to be a good method. Tangen noted that the addition of a part-time person might help ease the load in the recreation department at peak times. He commented that this was an area they receive much feedback on, due to high public contact with the department. MOTION: Kruell moved to recommend to the Council the adoption of the proposed 1980 Budget. Dave Anderson seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. MOTION: Kruell moved to recommend that the Council authorize additional personnel to assist with the administration of the recreation programs, due to the heavy load at peak times during the year. Dave Anderson seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to recommend to the Counicl that consideration be given in the budget to a dollar figure to be donated to EPAA for the purchase of equipment. Tangen seconded the motion for discussion. Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved August 20, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -6- C DISCUSSION: Fifield noted that although the request seems reasonable, he would like to hear from EPAA to know what their position is. Kruell stated that people who live in Eden Prairie and are in other school districts already contribute through parks and maintenence. They shouldn't be asked to donate more tax dollars when-•they can't participate. Dave Anderson replied that the school boundaries have nothing to do with EPAA, anyone living within the city boundaries can participate in the programs. Tangen also stated that he couldn't support the motion, since the request should come directly from EPAA. VOTE: The motion failed to pass, with all opposed except Dave Anderson. ~ Tangen stated if the commission could anticipate a permanent one mil levy that would grow each year, using the budget as it exists, the one mil , could, at some point in time, exceed the needs. He asked if it could be subject to review in five years. He was told it could. Kruell suggested they ask for more than one mil , since the Council may Ccut the figure. Tangen stated that as yet, the need for more than one mil has not been demonstrated. However, if the bond issue does not pass, there may be a 7 need for more. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to recommend to the Council the passage of a one mil levy to be used for park acquisition and development. It should be reviewed at the end of a five year period, and any unexpended monies should be carried over from one year to the next. Kruell seconded the motion. DISCUSSION: Kruell noted that the plan should be updated each year, planning for the next five years; so there is always a current five year plan. Dave Anderson stated that one mil should be sufficient if the bond issue is successful . People may object if they feel they are paying twice. Tangen added that it will take at least five years for the program to be evaluated realistically; but it must be reviewed in five years. r VOTE: Motion carried unanimously. C. Copy of the Letter of July 2, 1979, from Les Blacklock CThis was an informational item. Tangen noted the receipt of the letter. r Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved August 20, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -7- VII. NEW BUSINESS A. Riverview Spring Riverview Spring has become a gathering spot for many young people, and the neighboring properties have experienced a large incidence of vandalism. Heavy police patrol , and signs along the road have not helped. The staff feels the only way to help solve the problem is to close the spring. They are somewhat reluctant, however, since many people use it legitimately, and there is no guarantee that closing the spring will stop the use of the area as a gathering point. Kruell stated that if we have speeders, we don't close the highway. The spring is not the problem, the users are. Tangen pointed out that the spring is a natural resource and shouldn't be cemented over. Stricter enforcement is needed. Fifield agreed, stating the Commission is not responsible for law enforcement; the Public Safety Department is. MOTION: Kruell noved to request 'that the Council direct the Public Safety Department to take care of the vandalism problem in Southeast Eden Prairie through means other than the closing of Riverview Spring. Johnson seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. B. Construction Erosion Kruell reported that he noticed a serious erosion problem in the bluffs area of Southeast Eden Prairie, (later determined to be Bluffs 1st Addition) . There are roads that apparently quit at the boundary -- and the water runs off and flows down the slopes, creating an erosion problem on the hillsides. Kruell suggested that the cooperation of the builders and the inspection department would help the situation. Lambert reported that the staff had met with Watershed District representatives to determine who's responsibility it is to control the erosion problems. They agreed there is not enough inspection going on. Kruell reported the Watershed people had said the city is responsible since they issue guidelines, not controls. MOTION: Kruell moved that staff obtain information on how to correct the erosion problem accross the entire city, outline the recommended procedures, and determine who is responsible for control . Dave Anderson seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously. C. September Meeting {" Staff was directed to check with the Planner to determine the schedule of the building proposals coming before the Commission this month. They should determine if the September 2nd meeting should be rescheduled for another date, or be cancelled, since it is a legal holiday. Minutes--Parks, Recreation & approved August 20, 1979 Natural Resources Commission -8- (V. B. 1.) Bluffs West Third Addition Tangen called for the discussion of this item since a representative was still not present, and the other business had been completed. Lambert pointed out several points staff felt should be required. Those were according to the Staff Report of August 7,1979: #6--dealing with sidewalks and trails #7--Mini-park #B--Sixteen acre neighborhood park, free and clear of assessments #13-Ponding area for water storage will be necessary; the developer must agree to develop joint grading plans and schedules with the City. #16-Developer must be responsible forinstallation of underground pipe to carry drainage water from the street to the ponding area in the park. Tangen asked what funds were to be used for the City's share of the cost of grading. Lambert told him that the Cash Park Fees collected from Bluffs West 1st Addition would be used. Kruell asked how much lowland was being obliterated. Lambert told him about 7 or 8 acres, but there will still be 15 acres left. MOTION: Dave Anderson moved to recommend approval of Bluffs West 3rd Addition as per the planning staff report of August 7, 1979, plus the additional requirement that the developer be responsible for the entire length of pipe to carry drainage water underground to the holding pond; that BFI be required to post a bond on methane wells to cover cost to remove hazardous waste. Johnson seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. Tangen commented that he was disappointed that there was no representative from Hustad's to answer questions. VIII. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Georgia Jessen Recording Secretary