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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11.13.19 meeting packet CI T Y 0 P �.. • _ )" NDOVE ' "rig"4% 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV Andover Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Agenda November 13, 2019 Andover City Hall Conference Room A&B 6:00 p.m. 1. Call to Order 2. Resident Forum 3. Approval of Minutes: September 4, 2019 Regular Meeting 4. Discuss Maple View Grant (Partnership with Great River Greening) 5. Discuss Status of Dalske Woodlands Boardwalk 6. Discuss Logistics for Nature Preserve Tour with QCTV 7. Discuss Items for Joint Meeting with City Council 8. Discuss Purpose/Mission of Open Space Advisory Commission(OSAC) 9. Comments from the Outgoing Chair 10. Other Business a. Next meeting? 11. Adjournment C I T Y O F • ND OVE ' 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Approval of Minutes — September 4, 2019 Regular Meeting DATE: November 13, 2019 INTRODUCTION The Open Space Advisory Commission is asked to review and approve the minutes from the September 4, 2019 regular meeting. DISCUSSION Please share any changes to the minutes at the meeting. ACTION REQUESTED A motion, second, and vote are necessary to approve the minutes. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kytonen Attachment September 4, 2019 meeting minutes REGULAR ANDOVER OPEN SPACE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 4, 2019 MINUTES The Regular Meeting of the Andover Open Space Advisory Commission was called to order by Acting Chairperson Kim Kovich at 7:00 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. Commissioners present: Joy Faherty, Jim Olson, and Brian Perra Commissioners absent: Anna Dirkswager, Ryan Ingebritson, and Gretchen Sabel Also present: Kameron Kytonen,Natural Resources Technician RESIDENT FORUM No one wished to address the Commission. APPROVAL OF MINUTES—April 10, 2019 Motion by Commissioner Olson, Second by Commissioner Faherty, to approve the minutes of April 10, 2019. Motion passed 2-0-2 (Kovich and Perra present). DISCUSS MAPLE VIEW GRANT(PARTNERSHIP WITH GREAT RIVER GREENING) Mr. Kytonen provided an update noting that he met with a representative from Great River Greening in July to walk the parcel and briefly discuss what could be done with the grant funds. He stated that the intent of the grant funds is to combat invasive species and enhance the native plant community. He noted that he will continue to work with Todd from Great River Greening to develop a plan for the grant funds. He confirmed that he will send those materials to the Commission once developed and further discussion could occur at a future meeting. Commissioner Perra asked what the reed canary grass would be replaced with. Mr. Kytonen stated that typically a natural seed is used for an area that large. He explained that often once the reed canary grass is removed, that allows other native plants to thrive. He noted that the intent is not to change the property but simply enhance the plant community. DISCUSS STATUS OFDALSKE WOODLAND BOARDWALK Mr. Kytonen stated that the City once again applied for the DNR grant but was not awarded the grant funds. He noted that they will apply again the next year. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes—September 4, 2019 Page 2 Commissioner Olson stated that a boardwalk was mentioned, which he would think would be similar to the boardwalk near the fire station. He stated that he is unsure that a boardwalk of that nature is needed, as they simply need something to cross the water. He was unsure how wet the area outside of the creek is and perhaps just a bridge would be sufficient rather than an expensive boardwalk. He believed that if the purpose is just to cross the creek, there would most likely be a less expensive option. Mr. Kytonen stated that he spoke with his supervisor and the Building Official earlier today and the issues of safety, liability, long-term maintenance, and legality were discussed related to this crossing. He stated that because Andover is a second-tier suburb there would be a structure standard. He stated that the risk manager is working with the League of Minnesota Cities to determine the standards the City would need to work under. He agreed that perhaps a boardwalk similar to Crosstown would not be needed, and perhaps a different style of boardwalk would be sufficient. He stated that if the grant funds were awarded in the requested amount, it would cover the cost of a boardwalk similar to the Crosstown boardwalk. Commissioner Faherty stated that perhaps the Kelsey boardwalk would be a better model. Mr. Kytonen confirmed that could be an option, but maintenance would also be an issue to consider. Commissioner Olson stated that the width of the creek is probably at most 20 feet wide and provided a crossing suggestion that could be sufficient for the preserve. He stated that perhaps that option be considered as an alternative. Mr. Kytonen confirmed that there are less costly options that can and will be reviewed. Acting Chairperson Kovich stated that the 40 acres to the south was previously offered to the Commission for purchase. He stated that although the Commission does not have the funds to purchase the property at this time, that could be a cheaper alternative to the boardwalk. Commissioner Perra asked if applying for a larger amount reduces the chance that the grant would be approved, noting that the request jumped from $40,000 to $80,000. Mr. Kytonen explained that the grant request was based off the cost for the Crosstown boardwalk, as there are a lot of unknowns on the Dalske site. He agreed that tightening up the amount that would be needed for construction of the boardwalk could improve the chance the grant would be awarded. Acting Chairperson Kovich referenced the adjacent DNR owned land that is used for hunting. He noted that if there was a trail connecting from the DNR land to the preserve, that could increase the amount of people using the preserve. Commissioner Perra asked if grant funds could be used for purchasing additional land. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes—September 4, 2019 Page 3 Mr. Kytonen explained that a different grant would need to be applied for. Acting Chairperson Kovich stated that perhaps the adjacent landowner be consulted to determine if they would be interested in selling as that could be a less costly option. He stated that the option could then be discussed with the Council. He noted that additional land would make that preserve a larger attraction as well. Mr. Kytonen noted that the boardwalk has been slated in the CIP as well, which would be an alternate source of funding. The Commission stated that perhaps the preserve be walked during the winter months. FUN FEST RECAP Commissioner Olson stated that he and Commissioner Ingebritson staffed the booth. He explained that the booth was combined with the City Council and Community Center and believed that additional interest would be gained for the preserves if the Commission had its own booth with eye catching elements, perhaps a television playing the QCTV segments on the preserves. He stated that although the Commission had information available and on display, that information seemed to get lost in all the other information available and on display. Commissioner Faherty agreed that in her experience the larger display picture that they had a few years ago drew the most interest. Acting Chairperson Kovich summarized that perhaps for the next event it would help for the Commission to have its own space with an eye-catching display. Commissioner Faherty stated that a lot of fair event booths have wheels to spin for prizes. She noted that the wheel could feature questions about preserves to gain interest. Commissioner Olson stated that there could be tours scheduled that could be hosted by a member of the Commission. He noted that even school groups could gamer additional interest. DISCUSS POTENTIAL FOR ANOTHER TOUR OF THE PRESERVES WITH QCTV Mr. Kytonen explained that two years ago members of the Commission walked through four of the preserves with representatives from QCTV to feature and promote the preserves. Commissioner Olson commented that the QCTV staff did a great job. Commissioner Perra asked if the videos are available only on television or also available on a website. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes—September 4, 2019 Page 4 Mr. Kytonen confirmed that the videos are available to watch on the website. Acting Chairperson Kovich noted that some of the preserves have changes or improvements that have occurred since the last video tours. Mr. Kytonen noted that Dalske trail was not in at the last recording. He stated that he reached out to QCTV to determine if they would be open to the idea, noting that he was fairly confident QCTV would be interested in. He recognized that the timing may not be right for fall tours but perhaps spring tours would be nice too. Commissioner Olson noted that some of the tours were done in October. Commissioner Faherty agreed that the fall videos are beautiful and agreed that perhaps it would be nice to have spring videos as well. Mr. Kytonen confirmed that the City also features elements from the preserves on the City Facebook page a few times per year. He noted that he can keep the Commission informed once he hears back from QCTV. DISCUSS ITEMS FOR JOINT MEETING WITH CITY COUNCIL Mr. Kytonen noted that over the past few years the Commission has met jointly with the City Council on an annual basis to have a shared discussion. He asked if the Commission has ideas for the next joint meeting. Acting Chairperson Kovich suggested that the Dalske boardwalk and Martins Meadows east access be placed on the agenda. He stated that it seems that the Commission does not meet enough to be kept in the loop on current events. He explained that in the beginning the Commission met monthly, then moved to bi-monthly, and now the Commission only met two times this year. Commissioner Faherty stated that in her time on the Commission it seems that the group has entered phase two and therefore there are less agenda items. Acting Chairperson Kovich stated that there is constant development around the preserve areas and therefore continued action is needed even though the funds to purchase property have been spent. He provided examples of certain elements he believed the Commission should have been a part of. He provided details on a nice chipped trail into Martins Meadows and down to the river. He noted that it appears the trail is part of the preserve, but it is actually on private property and not part of the preserve. He stated that there is no signage that states that the trail property is private property so it would be difficult for visitors of the preserve to know that is not part of the preserve. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes—September 4, 2019 Page 5 Mr. Kytonen stated that mid-October or later could be a good time to meet with the Council in joint session. OTHER BUSINESS Acting Chairperson Kovich stated that if the Commission is going to be a group that does something, it should meet on a regular schedule. He suggested perhaps March, June, September and November continuing to meet on the second Wednesday. The Commission confirmed the consensus to meet the second Wednesday of the month in March, June, September, and November. Commissioner Perra asked the purpose or vision of the Commission. Commissioner Olson provided background information on the Commission and how the mission/purpose has evolved over the years. Mr. Kytonen noted that phase one was purchasing the property, phase two was to develop priorities and management plans, and perhaps the group is now in phase three. He agreed that perhaps the Commission should help to define the purpose of this next phase. Commissioner Olson stated that perhaps dedicated open space could be a part of development, similar to how dedicated park space is allocated. Acting Chairperson Kovich suggested that idea be brought up at the joint Council meeting. He stated that development will continue to occur around the preserves and the Commission should be part of the discussion as perhaps additional land could be dedicated that would increase the size of the preserves. Commissioner Perra stated that it would be helpful for the Commission to better define its role and vision for the future prior to meeting with the Council. Commissioner Faherty agreed that it would be helpful for everyone on the Commission to be involved in the discussion and on the same page prior to meeting with the Council. It was the consensus of the Commission to meet again in November and to meet with the Council sometime after that. Commissioner Olson suggested that the group continue to work on the discussed items prior to the November meeting. Mr. Kytonen confirmed that he would check the availability of the Council sometime after the November Commission meeting. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes—September 4, 2019 Page 6 Commissioner Olson asked that the minutes from this meeting be distributed to the Commission members within a week or 10 days rather than waiting until the packet for the November meeting. Commissioner Faherty stated that in the past there was discussion on the creation of the Commission and supporting documents. Commissioner Olson stated that he has that information and could pass that onto the Commission members. a. Next Meeting:November 13, 2019 Noted. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Commissioner Olson, Second by Commissioner Perra, to adjourn the meeting at 8:17 p.m. Motion passed 4-0. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kytonen Natural Resources Technician Drafted by: Amanda Staple, Recording Secretary CITY OF -;t_ A_____ ND OVE ' _ '' 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Discuss Maple View Grant (Partnership with Great River Greening) DATE: November 13, 2019 REQUEST The City is partnering with Great River Greening (GRG) and has secured a grant for restoration activities in Maple View Nature Preserve. The grant will cover activities in the wetland and upland areas (total of 17 acres). This grant is provided by the Outdoor Heritage Fund as recommended by the Lessard- Sams Outdoor Heritage Council through GRG's membership in the Metro Big Rivers Partnership. Staff met with a GRG rep in mid-July to walk the site and help come up with a game plan for restoration and management activities. There was some control work done on buckthorn and other invasives on October 29, 2019. Staff will discuss other future proposed activities planned in the preserve with the OSAC. Respectfully submitted, 7/ 1177 - Kameron Kytonen CITY OF ND oVE ' 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Discuss Status of Dalske Woodlands Boardwalk DATE: November 13, 2019 INTRODUCTION Dalske Woodlands Preserve is currently separated by a wetland area that encompasses a county ditch. This prevents users from being able to safely cross into the other upland area, which is situated on the southern half. DISCUSSION This past winter, the City once again applied for a grant under the DNR Federal Recreational Trail Program with hopes of getting funding to build the boardwalk. Unfortunately, the City didn't get the grant on this occasion. The boardwalk was initially inserted into the 2020 CIP, but has since been pushed back to the 2023 CIP. There are plans to hopefully build a boardwalk, regardless of being awarded a grant- in the future. The City has recently installed a few other boardwalks in the City,and staff will share some of that cost information with the Commission. ACTION REQUESTED The Commission is requested to discuss the future boardwalk at Dalske Woodlands Preserve. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kyto en CAI T Y OF NDOVE ' 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N . • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Discuss Logistics for Nature Preserve Tour with QCTV DATE: November 13, 2019 INTRODUCTION In the Fall of 2017, select members of the OSAC did a walking tour of the four nature preserves with the local cable channel, QCTV. DISCUSSION Since that time, all the preserves have had improvements and/or have changed a bit. Thus, it would be interesting to show these features to residents by conducting the tour in conjunction with QCTV. Participating in this potential opportunity would be a great opportunity to showcase the preserves to residents and expand our services. Once again, the idea is to have QCTV visit each site to take footage while interested commissioner(s) talk about them. Staff contacted a representative from QCTV and there was interest in doing an encore. ACTION REQUESTED The Commission is requested to discuss this program in more detail, including defining roles of participating commissioners, its appropriate format and deciding on a date that may work next spring. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kytonen AC I T Y OF NDOVE ' .,, ...2. 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Discuss Items for Joint Meeting with City Council DATE: November 13, 2019 REQUEST The OSAC has met a couple times over the years with the City Council to discuss pertinent items related to present and future activities in the four nature preserves and to discuss the future of the OSAC in general. In addition, future land acquisition and funding options have been discussed. The Commission is requested to brainstorm ideas for discussion items for another potential joint meeting with the City Council. Respectfully submitted, ameron Kytonen CITY OF ND OVE ' r�,`'`y 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N . • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Discuss Purpose/Mission of Open Space Advisory Commission (OSAC) DATE: November 13, 2019 REQUEST The OSAC has accomplished a lot over the last several years. Now that the funds have been utilized and the nature preserves are for the most part well managed, the commission's role may be different. There have been some emails sent out by various Commissioners listing mission statements and goals for future activities of the Commission and to help it establish its new identity. The Commission is requested to continue this discussion to help it continue to accomplish future initiatives for the betterment of the nature preserves and the community as a whole. Respectfully submitted, 12_____/ _ Kameron Kytonen ckCITY OF . ,2, NDOVE ' 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Comments from the Outgoing Chair DATE: November 13, 2019 REQUEST Acting Chairperson Gretchen Sabel has been on the OSAC since its inception back in 2007. Her term expires at the end of the year. It's been a pleasure having her on this commission, as she's done a wonderful job and has accomplished a lot of great things. She has some comments for the OSAC. Respectfully submitted, V—' Kameron ytonen