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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSP January 24, 2002 CITY OF ANDOVER 1685 Crosstown Boulevard N.W.. Andover. Minnesota 55304. (763) 755-5100 Fax (763) 755-8923 . www.cLandover.mn.us Special City Council Meeting - Thursday, January 24, 2002 6:00 PM Conference Room A 1. Call to Order 2. Interview Planning & Zoning Commission Candidates (6:00-7:00 PM) 3. Appoint 3 Planning & Zoning Commission Members 4. Appoint Chairperson & Vice-Chair for 2002 5. Interview Park & Recreation Commission Candidates (7:30-8:45 PM) 6. Appoint 2 Park & Recreation Commission Members 7. Appoint Chairperson & Vice-Chair for 2002 8. Other Business 9. 10. Adjournment - · ~\U.t- ~ ~î ;¡+1-6~ CITY of ANDOVER SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING- JANUARY 14,1002 MINUTES The Special City Council meeting was called to order by Mayor Gamache on January 24, 2002, 6:06 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. Councilmembers Present: Mayor Gamache, Councilmembers Don Jacobson, Mike Knight, Julie Trude, and Ken Orttel. Councilmembers Absent: There were none. Also Present: City Planner, Courtney Bednarz - Parks Coordinator, Todd Haas Others INTERVIEW PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION CANDIDATES DEAN DANINGER The Council questioned Mr. Daninger on what is the single most important planning issue facing the City of Andover in the next 5 years. Mr. Daninger stated that what grabs his attention most is the development along Bunker Lake Boulevard, since that's where most of the questions come from. The Council questioned Mr. Daninger on what can be done to improve the City's public irnage. Mr. Daninger stated that a downtown would really put the City of Andover on the map. He stated that it would improve a lot of things such as the housing ifit were necessary to fill the high-density areas. Councilmember Trude questioned Mr. Daninger on what the City is currently missing. Mr. Daninger stated that at some point he would like to see a community center built. He stated that it would also be nice ifthere were easier access to the City, however that would require the county's involvement. He stated that it's better sometimes to look at what's on the table and go from there. The Council questioned Mr. Daninger on how consistent the City has been in planning for growth over the past 10 years. Mr. Daninger stated that over the last few years the focus · Special City Council Meeting Minutes - January 24, 2002 Page 2 has changed from build, build, build, to let's make sure it's done right. He mentioned that the City has changed to look at things in more the right way. Councilmember Jacobson questioned him on what would be the most important decision when making a deliberation on an issue. He gave him 3 choices. Mr. Daninger stated that he is the conservative one. He stated that he feels there are too many variances given out. Councilmember Jacobson questioned Mr. Daninger on why he would like to serve another term. Mr. Daninger stated that in his first term he had no hidden agenda, however serving 3 years on the Commission he has realized that it does keep him involved in the community and to grow personally. He stated that he would play an important role on the Commission since he has the experience and knows what questions to ask. He mentioned that he does see a future for himself in government. Councilmember Orttel questioned ifthere is anything that could make the Commission run smoother either with the public QLwith the meetings. Mr. Daninger stated that it may help to have a timer at the meeting to limit the amount of time spent on the public hearings, however it's also good to let people say what's on their minds. He stated that staff has been a great help getting the information out to the Commission members. He also mentioned that visuals always help to give a clear picture to the Commissioners. Mayor Gamache asked Mr. Daninger ifhe would like to add anything else to the interview. Mr. Daninger stated that he welcomes the opportunity to serve again, however he has no hidden agenda. He also mentioned that he's very conservative in that he likes to follow the rules. Councilmember Trude asked Mr. Daninger ifhe feels the Sports Complex Task Force meetings should be televised. Mr. Daninger stated that the public does need to be informed. He stated that the only problem with televising the meetings is that some individuals may say something that they can't take back, or they may use verb age not appropriate for television. DOUG FALK The Council questioned Mr. Falk on what is the single most important planning issue facing the City in the next 5 years. Mr. Falk stated that this would have to be growth. He stated that the City is growing so fast that a lot of problems have to do with traffic congestion. He suggested the City plan with other cities to try and minimize traffic by adding roads and stoplights where necessary. Councilmember Knight questioned Mr. Falk on how consistent the City has been in planning for growth over the past 10 years. He questioned if the policies have remained - ... - Special City Council Meeting Minutes - January 24, 2002 Page 3 the same. Mr. Falk stated that he feels that everyone has his or her own view of things, however it seems the City is on the right track. Councilmember Knight asked if the Cornmission has been consistent over the past few years. Mr. Falk felt they have been. Councilmember Jacobson questioned him on what would be the most important decision when making a deliberation on an issue. He gave him 3 choices. Mr. Falk stated the strict policy that the City has put into effect for Andover. Mayor Gamache questioned when given the choice between additional park land, additional home sites, or additional commercial property within a proposed development, which is the most important to the community. Mr. Falk stated that the most important to the community would be additional park land. He stated that wherever there is housing there are kids; therefore, parkland benefits the City and the housing development. Councilmember Orttel questioned Mr. Falk on what can be done to improve the City's public image. Mr. Falk stated that he would like to see an open forum if residents have a problem. He stated that he would like to see the Commission work out the issues with the residents ifthere is a problem without being televised. He mentioned that sometimes the public feels we're against them, when really we're just following the ordinances. Councilmember Knight asked if television is a hindrance or a help to the residents. Mr. Falk stated that television is definitely a help to the public. He explained that in the case ofa problem it would be nice if the Commission could work it out with the residents without it being televised. Councilmember Trude asked if the City should be proud when it looks at the developments that have gone in over the last five years. Mr. Falk stated that he would like to have a say in how the housing goes in around the City. He stated that he doesn't like cookie cutter housing, but instead stagger them so they are out of the ordinary. Councilmember Knight questioned Mr. Falk on how he would describe his past 3 years on the Commission. Mr. Falk stated that the past 3 years were very exciting and he enjoyed it greatly. Councilmember Jacobson questioned Mr. Falk on why he would like to serve another 3- year term. Mr. Falk stated that he has enjoyed being a part of the Commission, since it seems the Council takes the recornmendations from the Commission seriously. He stated that he also enjoys planning for the City and watching the City grow. Councilmember Trude asked if the meetings need to be conducted in a stricter manner when there's a public hearing. Mr. Falk stated that the meetings do need to be controlled tightly, in order to keep control of the meeting. . · Special City Council Meeting Minutes -January 24,2002 Page 4 Councilmember Trude asked Mr. Falk if it bothers him when residents jump up and talk without being acknowledged. Mr. Falk stated that no it doesn't bother him. Mr. Falk mentioned that he is part of the military. He stated that his section has just now been activated; therefore, he will be required to do a 90-day rotation during the summer months. He mentioned that he wanted to make the Council aware of this, however hopes it isn't a deciding factor. Councilmember Trude stated that it shouldn't playa role in their decision. ADAM WINIARCZYK Councilmember Trude questioned Mr. Winiarczyk when given the choice between additional park land, additional home sites, or additional commercial property within a proposed development, which is the most important to the community. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that additional park land is the most important to the cornmunity, however it does depend on the site. - Councilmember Orttel asked what the single most important planning issue facing the City will be in the next 5 years. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that the most important issue is to balance the expansion while preserving what the residents already have, without losing the residents quality of life. Councilmember Knight asked how he defines quality of life. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that part of what he is referring to is the problem with the ultralights. He stated that part of it is that the residents have a quality of life they live in and changing the rules becomes an Issue. Councilmember Knight stated that for many people what they are looking for is the rural way of life. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that people are definitely looking for a more rural community, which is why many people have moved to Andover. He stated that some people are looking to escape the city life; others are looking for a more quiet community. Councilmember Knight questioned Mr. Winiarczyk on what is the City's biggest asset and constraint. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that the City's asset is what is still undeveloped; therefore, there is still room to ensure a quality of life. He stated that the City's biggest constraint is that Andover is still a rural community. Councilmember Jacobson asked Mr. Winiarczyk what would be the most important decision when making a deliberation on an issue. He gave him 3 choices. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that the most important would be the strict interpretation of the ordinances, while considering the feelings of the people. He stated that it isn't possible for the Commission to go against the ordinances, however their role is to represent the residents within the ordinance guidelines. - Special City Council Meeting Minutes -January 24,2002 Page 5 Mayor Gamache questioned how consistent the City has been in planning for growth over the past 10 years. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that he believes the City has been consistent with the planning and development regarding the southern half of Andover. He mentioned that he hasn't paid much attention until recently. Councilmember Orttel questioned what type of development the City should actively pursue. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that the City should actively pursue a good mix or variety of development. Councilmember Orttel questioned Mr. Winiarczyk on what his feelings are regarding multi-family development. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that if it's needed it would be satisfactory. Councilmember Orttel questioned Mr. Winiarczyk on what would be a good area in the City for multi-family housing. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that there should be some type of multi-family housing in each neighborhood instead of just concentrating on one area. Councilmember Trude asked if there is something that the Commission can do when someone in the City has a problem. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that the actions he took regarding the ultralight issue worked, however it wasn't easy. Mayor Gamache asked if it would be a problem with attending meetings, since the Commission could meet up to 3 times per month. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that that wouldn't be a problem. Mr. Winiarczyk stated that he is applying for a position on the Commission since he is a concerned resident. He stated that he doesn't represent any type of special interest group. He mentioned that he's just looking to be more involved in the community. WAYNE KARNIIZ The candidate was not present for this interview, however was also scheduled for an interview regarding the Park & Recreation Commission. APPOINT 3 PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION MEMBERS Councilmember Orttel suggested Mr. Daninger and Mr. Falk both be reappointed. Councilmember Trude questioned what the Council should do if Mr. Karnitz doesn't show up for the interview regarding the Park Cornmission. She asked if the Council could advertise for more applicants. The Council decided to wait to see if Mr. Karnitz shows up for the other interview. · Special City Council Meeting Minutes - January 24. 2002 Page 6 Motion by Jacobson, seconded by Knight, to reappoint Dean Daninger and Douglas Falk to the Planning & Zoning Commission for a 3-year term. Motion carried on a 5-ayes, 0- nays vote. APPOINT CHAIRPERSON & VICE-CHAIR FOR 1001 Councilmember Orttel mentioned that Chairman Jay Squires does an excellent job as chair. Councilmember Jacobson stated that he isn't against Mr. Squires in anyway, however questioned if it isn't normal procedure to rotate the position among the Commissioners. The Council discussed who else on the Commission would have enough experience. City Planner Courtney Bednarz mentioned that Mr. Squires does an exceptional job. Councilmember Knight mentioned that if Mr. Squires is doing an excellent job, why change it. Councilmember Orttel mentioned that to his knowledge there isn't anyone else on the Cornmission that is looking for the job. Motion by Jacobson, seconded by Knight, to reappoint Jay Squires as the Chair ofthe Planning & Zoning Commission, and to appoint Dean Daninger as Vice-Chair, for the year 2002. Motion carried on a 5-ayes, O-nays, O-absent vote. Mayor Gamache asked ifthere is a file of applicants rrom previous years. Mr. Bednarz stated that there is. INTERVIEW PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION CANDIDATES ANTHONY GAMACHE Councilmember Orttel asked what the single most important issue related to parks will be in the next five years. Mr. Gamache stated that the most important issue is having the money to keep the parks up, and continuing the parks as the City has been for the past 6 to 8 years. Mayor Gamache questioned Tony Gamache on what he believes is lacking in the City's park system. Mr. Gamache stated that he can't think of anything that the City is lacking. He stated that he grew up in Blaine and feels Andover is developing ahead of Blaine. He stated that the purpose of the parks is to attract young families and keep the kids busy, which the City has already achieved. He mentioned that something that could be done is to patrol the parks to prevent them from being a teen hangout. · Special City Council Meeting Minutes - January 24, 2002 Page 7 Councilmember Jacobson questioned Mr. Gamache as to what the duties are of the Park Cornmission and what it is that they should be doing. Mr. Gamache stated that he isn't familiar enough with the Park Commission to know what their duties should be, however he feels they should be involved in developing the parks and trail system throughout the City. He mentioned that the Park Commission should act as a keeper of activities for kids in the City. Councilmember Knight questioned Mr. Gamache as to what he feels is the City's biggest asset and constraint related to parks. Mr. Gamache stated that the City's biggest asset is the schools, especially now since when the high school is completed every child in Andover will go to school in Andover. He stated that the community education programs are also a big asset to the City. He mentioned that the City is doing a great job of attracting people to live here and stay here. He stated that the City's biggest constraint is finding a way to get more people involved, instead of just complaining. Councilmember Jacobson asked Mr. Gamache how long he has lived in Andover. Mr. ~ Gamache stated that he's lived in Andover since 1993. Councilmember Knight requested Mr. Gamache to give the Council a brief history about himself. Mr. Gamache stated that he's lived in Andover almost 10 years. He stated that he has two kids and is employed with SuperValue in Hopkins, MN as a promotions manager for the past 7 years. Councilmember Trude mentioned that the City's been talking about building a Multi- Sports Complex. She asked ifhe was aware of this. Mr. Gamache stated that he wasn't aware of any Multi-Sports Complex. Councilmember Jacobson questioned Mr. Gamache on what he feels his qualifications are to serve on the park board. Mr. Gamache stated that he's interested in the City and the kids, and the City having a good park system to offer its residents. Councilmember Jacobson asked Mr. Gamache ifhe is involved in any organizations where there could be a conflict of interest. Mr. Gamache stated no. Councilmember Knight asked Mr. Gamache ifhe would be interested in the Planning & Zoning Cornmission. Mr. Gamache stated that he would be. Councilmember Knight asked ifhe is familiar with the Planning & Zoning Cornmission. Mr. Gamache stated that he is somewhat familiar with the Planning & Zoning Commission. . Special City Council Meeting Minutes - January 24, 2002 Page 8 Councilmember Trude questioned Mr. Gamache on whether or not he has seen any park meetings on television. Mr. Gamache stated that he hasn't seen any meetings for at least a year. Councilmember Trude asked if it would be a problem to attend meetings on the first and third Thursday of every month. Mr. Gamache stated that that would be fine. Councilmember Trude questioned if it would be a problem attending the Planning & Zoning Commission meetings on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month. Mr. Gamache stated that that would be fine. Mayor Gamache questioned Tony Gamache on what type of development the City should actively pursue in the next few years. Tony Gamache stated that he likes the idea of a sports complex, however the idea of an industrial park is also great as long as it involves the right people. He suggested that it might be a good idea to get things going on the northern end of town on a much smaller scale. Councilmember Orttel questioned Mr. Gamache on what his feelings are on multiple vs. single-family homes. Mr. Gamache stated that he does not like the idea of rental properties unless the City needs it. He stated that if the rules are such that they are required, he suggested they don't look like the 4 plexes along Bunker Lake Boulevard. WA YNE KARNITZ Mayor Gamache questioned Mr. Kamitz on which Commission he would like to serve on more, either the Planning & Zoning Commission or the Park & Recreation Commission. Mr. Karnitz stated that he is interested in serving on either Commission, however he has been involved with the Park Commission in the past. Councilmember Trude questioned Mr. Kamitz on what is the single most important issue related to the parks in the next 5 years. Mr. Karnitz stated that the most important issue would have to be keeping up with the parks regarding maintenance and to make sure there are enough parks available to the residents. He stated that another problem he sees throughout the City are parks that aren't used to their maximum potential. He mentioned that he's seen a lot of vandalism take place at Strootman Park. He asked if it would be possible for him to act as the Ranger of the park. Councilmember Knight asked Mr. Karnitz ifhe is aware of how the Planning & Zoning Commission works. Mr. Karnitz stated that he is somewhat aware of how the Cornmission operates. Councilmember Knight asked him what will be the most important planning issue facing the City in the next 5 years. Mr. Kamitz stated that the most important planning issue . · Special City Council Meeting Minutes - January 24, 2002 Page 9 would be to make sure the roads in each neighborhood are planned out properly and if any zoning needs to be addressed that it be addressed correctly. Councilmember Jacobson mentioned that the Park & Recreation Commission meets up to 3 Thursdays a month. He questioned if this would be a problem. Mr. Karnitz stated that that would be fine. Mayor Gamache questioned Mr. Karnitz on what type of development the City should be actively pursuing. Mr. Karnitz stated that condensed housing could be blended into neighborhoods as long as they are higher class and well thought out. He stated that it's important the City address the roads first and determine where the funds will come from to make signalization changes etc. He stated that the City also needs commercial development, or an industrial park similar to what's located in Ramsey, however the City needs to look hard at the best suitable location. Councilmember Orttel questioned Mr. Karnitz on what he feels the City has done well in - the last few years and what could be done differently. Mr. Karnitz stated that he feels the development has been done well. He stated the biggest issue is the more rural roads that could use improvements to be brought up to what the people expect. He mentioned that there continues to be a problem with some intersections since they are in need of signalization. Mr. Karnitz stated that he's at the age where he feels he should become more involved in the community. He stated that he isn't fussy how he becomes involved, however would just like to help make a difference. MARK LEHMAN Councilmember Trude questioned Mr. Lehman on what the single most important issue related to parks would be in the next 5 years. Mr. Lehman stated that the expansion of the park system throughout the City needs to be as important as the growth ofthe City. He stated that it's important the City maintains what it already has and expands in areas that are still growing. Councilmember Trude asked Mr. Lehman if he tends to use one specific park within the City or a number of parks. Mr. Lehman stated that he and his wife tend to use Lions Club Park a lot. He stated that he's also used the trail system, which is very important in providing a safe route for the residents when choosing to recreate. Councilmember Orttel asked Mr. Lehman if he is aware the City is putting in a tunnel along Bunker Lake Boulevard. Mr. Lehman stated that he is aware of the tunnel project. Councilmember Orttel questioned Mr. Lehman on how long he's lived in Andover. Mr. Lehman stated that they will have lived in Andover two years in July. -- Special City Council Meeting Minutes - January 24, 2002 Page 10 Councilmember Knight asked him ifhe would be interested in the Planning & Zoning Commission. Mr. Lehman stated that he would be willing to serve on the Planning & Zoning Commission; however the reason he applied for the Park Cornmission is because of his background and his desire to become involved in the community. Councilmember Knight asked him ifhe is aware of how the Planning & Zoning Commission works. Mr. Lehman stated that he isn't aware of how the Cornmission works, however would be willing to learn and work hard at doing a good job. Councilmember Trude asked him if he has ever seen any Planning & Zoning Cornmission meetings on television. Mr. Lehman stated that he hasn't seen any meetings televised. Councilmember Knight mentioned that both Commissions meet twice per month. Mr. Lehman stated that that would be fine. Councjlmember Knight questioned him on what his perception is of the Park Cornmission's duties and responsibilities. Mr. Lehman stated that in his view the Cornmission should have input on all new developments, in addition to the goals the City is looking at for the future. He stated that it's important there is something for all ages. He also mentioned that it's important the parks are maintained properly so the City can maintain an overall strong park system. Mayor Gamache questioned Mr. Lehman as to what the City's biggest asset is in relation to parks. Mr. Lehman stated that he feels the biggest asset is the City's trail system, since it's a safe place to recreate and relax. Mayor Gamache questioned what the constraints the City has in regards to the park system. Mr. Lehman stated that the biggest constraint is money, since that is a common problem in any situation. Councilmember Orttel requested Mr. Lehman to give a brief history of his background. Mr. Lehman stated that he is originally from Watertown, WI. He stated that he lived in Woodbury for some time, however relocated to Andover after he accepted a position in Cambridge. He stated that they enjoy living in Andover because of the park system and trails. Councilmember Trude asked Mr. Lehman if there would be a lot of families in his neighborhood that would use the new water park that's going to be constructed as part of the Bunker Hills Regional Park. Mr. Lehman stated that in his neighborhood the water park would definitely be an interest. Mr. Lehman stated that he would be more interested in the Park Commission than the Planning & Zoning Commission because of his background in Therapeutic Recreation. - Special City Council Meeting Minutes -January 24.2002 Page 11 Councilmember Trude questioned Mr. Lehman ifhe has a special interest in terms of sports. Mr. Lehman stated that he's played a wide variety of sports over the years. Councilmember Trude questioned him as to what type of classes he encountered during school. Mr. Lehman explained what type of classes he took to receive a degree in Therapeutic Recreation. Mr. Lehman mentioned that he was one of the individuals contacted for the survey. JIM LINDAHL Councilmember Orttel questioned Mr. Lindahl on what can be done to change how the Cornmission body interacts with the public. Mr. Lindahl stated that if the residents come forward with a concern we do the best we can to take their opinions into consideration. Councilmember Orttel questioned Mr. Lindahl on what can be done to change how the Commission interacts with each other. Mr. Lindahl stated that everyone on the Commission has their own way of thinking. Mayor Gamache questioned him as to what he sees as the most important issue facing the parks in the next 5 years. Mr. Lindahl stated that he feels the most important issue will be the transition of the new high school along with the facilities at the school. He stated that another issue that's up and coming is the WDE site, and the strong response for trails. He mentioned that another thing that's in the works is the possibility of a multi-sports complex. Councilmember Jacobson mentioned that the Commission spends a lot of time scheduling different teams. Mr. Lindahl explained that actually the Commission just reviews the schedule and makes sure it's workable with the rest of the associations. Councilmember Jacobson questioned him as to what is the most important thing the park board should be doing. Mr. Lindahl explained that the task of the Commission is to evaluate a plan for the future parks, and the upgrading of new or old parks. He stated that the Cornmission must also consider the needs and interests of all ages, in addition to adding new amenities if necessary (such as the Skateboard Park). He mentioned that the Commission has seen that having a park every 1.5 miles isn't functional, therefore they've tried to focus more on regional parks and blend as the Commission sees fit. Councilmember Knight asked ifhim ifhe feels the Commission functions as efficiently as it should and/or could. Mr. Lindahl stated that the Park Commission is somewhat limited as to what it can do; however the Commission does try and respond to the residents as much as possible. He mentioned that the Commission is made up of a . Special City Council Meeting Minutes - January 24, 2002 Page 12 diverse group of people. He also mentioned that he personally has no sports ties, therefore stays objective on the issues the Commission faces. Councilmember Knight questioned the reason the Commission discusses the Sports Complex Task Force in the manner that it does. Mr. Lindahl stated that the issue is slanted from some Cornmissioners. He mentioned that there are already a number of pools in the area, therefore he questioned if another one in the complex would be necessary. He questioned if the public is even aware ofwhat's already available. He mentioned that the ice arena will definitely be an important component to the complex, however it may not be feasible if the cost is as high as what's being discussed. Councilmember Knight mentioned that the numbers regarding the cost of the facility are going to fluctuate as time goes on. Mr. Lindahl mentioned that if the facility is over 5 million it could be a burden on the community. Councilmember Orttel asked Mr. Lindahl ifhe's ever thought of changing over to the Planning & Zoning Commission since he's been on the Park Cornmission for 12 years. Mr. Lindahl stated that he wouldn't be interested at this time. Councilmember Orttel questioned him on what is the biggest asset among the park system. Mr. Lindahl stated that the trails are probably the biggest asset. Councilmember Trude questioned Mr. Lindahl ifhe feels the meetings would be more productive if they weren't televised. Mr. Lindahl stated that the residents do need to be informed. He stated that at times the Commission has lost focus, however the role of the Chairperson is to keep control and give direction even though at times that becomes very difficult. Mr. Lindahl stated that his intent is fiscal responsibility, planned development, and planned growth. He mentioned that the Commission has come a long way since he first was appointed to the Cornmission. He also mentioned that the worst is when a park isn't developed when it's graded. VAL HOLTHUS Councilmember Trude questioned Ms. Holthus on what the single most important issue related to parks would be in the next 5 years. Ms. Holthus stated that the most important issue is to meet the demands of a young city and all the age groups within that City. Councilmember Trude questioned if the Council ever steps over the Commission. Ms. Holthus stated that she doesn't feel that the Council steps on the Commission. She stated that she feels the Council has been fair, even though the Cornmission hasn't been. . · Special City Council Meeting Minutes - January 24. 2002 Page 13 Councilmember Jacobson questioned Ms. Holthus on the reason she is reapplying. Ms. Holthus stated that she has enjoyed serving on the Commission because of the people she's met and the opportunity she's been given to make a difference for kids. She stated that it's important the City provides things for the kids to do to keep them out of trouble. Councilmember Trude asked what the City could offer teenagers. Ms. Holthus explained that when she grew up they had access to the churches, some of which were set up as a youth center where they would play pool. She stated that it was supervised; however anyone and everyone was welcome. Mayor Gamache questioned her as to what she believes the current park system is lacking. Ms. Holthus stated that the City is currently lacking connecting trails from one City to another. She stated that right now it's hard to get around for those that bike and run, however on the flip side the trails the City has are a definite plus. She mentioned that it would be nice to be able to connect the whole City together and then connect the City to the surrounding cities. - Ms. Holthus explained that she knows the City very wen, which is part of the reason why she would like to remain on the Commission. Councilmember Orttel mentioned that the Council did throw her into the chair position last year. Councilmember Orttel questioned if the Commission advised on the trail along Round Lake Boulevard. Ms. Holthus explained that the Commission was hoping to have the trail along the west side of the road. Councilmember Orttel questioned if the Commission could use training on parliamentary procedures. Ms. Holthus stated that she doesn't think this would help. Councilmember Knight questioned if the Commission is aware that they're getting a bad reputation from the public. Ms. Holthus presented the Council with a list of organizations and activities she has been involved in over the years and continues to be involved in. DORRiE PETERSON Councilmember Orttel questioned Ms. Peterson on what is the single most important issue the City is facing in the next 5 years related to the parks. Ms. Peterson stated that she feels the City will grow tremendously with the new school acting as a feeder team. She stated that the City will have kids from all the surrounding school. She mentioned that whatever the City is doing in the community does end up feeding to the high school. · Special City Council Meeting Minutes -January 24.2002 Page t4 Mayor Gamache asked Ms. Peterson what is currently lacking in the City's park system. Ms. Peterson stated that currently there is a lot of older equipment, however with a small budget it makes it difficult to replace the equipment. She stated that she would like to see more equipment. She mentioned that she was one of the individuals that participated in the survey. She also mentioned that something people are wanting is crafts and various activities, however that would require facilities. Councilmember Jacobson questioned her as to what she feels the Park Commission does. Ms. Peterson stated that she would like to see more resident forum and more citizen input. Councilmember Knight asked what the City's biggest assets and constraints are. Ms. Peterson stated that her family loves the trails. She stated that what could use work is the accessibility to Bunker Lake Regional Park, since many residents live so close to the park. Ms. Peterson mentioned that she personally would never use the upcoming tunnel along Bunker Lake Boulevard since she is a woman and there will always be kids looking for trouble. Councilmember Trude questioned her as to her feelings on another swirnming pool in the City. Ms. Peterson stated that even though many people like to swim, her concerns would be the impact of crossing over since there are pools already available to the residents. Councilmember Orttel questioned Ms. Peterson if she would be interested in being on the Commission with the way it currently operates. Ms. Peterson stated that from her observation there is always someone knocking someone else down to make himselfì'herself look good. She questioned if they understand parliamentary procedures. APPOINT 3RD PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION MEMBER Motion by Orttel, seconded by Jacobson, to appoint Anthony Gamache to the Planning & Zoning Cornmission for a 3-year term. Motion carried on a 5-ayes, O-nays, O-absent vote. APPOINT 1 PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION MEMBERS Motion by Jacobson, seconded by Orttel, to reappoint Jim Lindahl and Val Holthus to the Park & Recreation Commission, and appoint Jim Lindahl as the Chairman. Further Discussion Councilmember Trude stated that she would also like to see Dorrie Peterson on the Commission. - Special City Council Meeting Minutes -January 24,2002 Page 15 Councilmember Trude suggested the motion be tabled, so the Council could first reappoint Jim Lindahl. Councilmember Jacobson withdrew his motion from the table. Councilmember Orttel agreed. Motion by Jacobson, seconded by Orttel, to reappoint Jim Lindahl to the Park & Recreation Commission for a 3-year term and to act as the Chairman for 2002. Motion carried on a 5-ayes, O-nays vote. Councilmember Orttel mentioned that Val Holthus is more involved than anyone. Furthermore she always shows up for the meetings. Councilmember Knight stated that he would support voting for Ms. Holthus. --. Motion Knight, seconded by Orttel, to reappoint Val Holthus to the Park & Recreation Commission. Motion carried on a 3-ayes, 2-nays, (Gamache and Trude) vote. Councilmember Orttel suggested interviewing all of the Park Commission members even though their terms aren't up for renewal. Mayor Gamache agreed. Motion Orttel, seconded by Jacobson, to appoint Paul Anderson as Vice-Chair of the Park Commission for 2002, and appoint Dorrie Peterson as alternate 1 to the Cornmission and Mark Lehman as alternate 2, and to schedule interviews with the 5 remaining Commissioners for re-evaluation. Motion carried on a 5-ayes, O-nays vote. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Jacobson, seconded by Orttel, to adjourn the meeting at 9:41 p.m. Motion carried on a 5-ayes, O-nays vote. Respectfully submitted, Sara Beck, Recording Secretary TiineSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.