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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-14-21 meeting packet• 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.AN DOVE RM N.GOV Andover Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Agenda April 14, 2021 Andover City Hall Council Chambers 6:00 p.m. 1. Call to Order 2. Resident Forum 3. Approval of Minutes: March 11, 2020 Regular Meeting 4. Welcome to new Commissioner Holubiw 5. Review Purpose/Mission of Open Space Advisory Commission (OSAC) 6. Discuss Maple View Grant (Partnership with Great River Greening) 7. Discuss Martin's Meadows Vegetation Management Activities 8. Discuss Options for Crossing at Dalske Woodlands (i.e. Boardwalk) 9. Discuss Updates to Maps and Guide Signage at Preserves 10. Discuss Meadows at Petersen Farms and New Access to Martin's Meadows 11. Discuss Items for Joint Meeting with City Council 12. Recap of Nature Preserve Tour with QCTV 13. Other Business a. Next meeting? 14. Adjournment Please note: Please keep in mind that seating in the City Council Chambers is currently very limited as appropriate social distancing will be practiced by the Commission and visitors. 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 — March 11, 2020 Regular Meeting DATE: April 14, 2021 INTRODUCTION The Open Space Advisory Commission is asked to review and approve the minutes from the March 11, 2020 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, 9—/ Kameron Kytonen Attachment March 11, 2020 meeting minutes REGULAR ANDOVER OPEN SPACE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 11, 2020 MINUTES The Regular Meeting of the Andover Open Space Advisory Commission was called to order by Chairperson Kim Kovich at 6:05 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. Commissioners present: Joy Faherty (arrived at 6:14 p.m.), Ryan Ingebritson, Erik Lindberg, Jim Olson, Brian Perra, and Jen Vedadi Commissioners absent: None Also present: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician RESIDENT FORUM No one wished to address the Commission. APPROVAL OFMINUTES —November 13, 2019 Motion by Commissioner Olson, Second by Commissioner Ingebritson, to approve the minutes of November 13, 2019. Motion passed 3-0 (Lindberg, Perra, and Vedadi present). DISCUSS MAPLE VIEW GRANT (PARTNERSHIP WITH GREAT RIVER GREENING) Mr. Kytonen reported that the City currently has a grant through Great River Greening for Maple View. He noted that in mid to late May the work will continue with some invasive species control on the site. Commissioner Lindberg asked how the removal is completed. Mr. Kytonen replied that chemical treatment is used in the spring. DISCUSS STATUS OFDALSKE WOODLANDS BOARDWALK Mr. Kytonen stated that the City has applied for a grant for the construction of a boardwalk at Dalske Woodlands but has not yet been successful. He stated that he did not apply for the grant this year as the Commission will be meeting with the City Council to discuss the structure of the boardwalk. He explained that the City Engineer is currently supporting the need for a more robust boardwalk for that location, which would have a higher cost. He stated that the high cost of the engineer's recommendation may make the boardwalk cost prohibitive and therefore the Commission may want to discuss the ability to go with a less robust boardwalk with the City Council, as it would only need to handle foot traffic and perhaps a lawnmower. Commissioner Olson stated that he would not support constructing a boardwalk with a cost of $100,000. Commissioner Faherty arrived at 6:14 p.m. Commissioner Vedadi commented that the southern portion of Dalske Woodlands could be left as free space and open exploration. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes — March 11, 2020 Page 2 Commissioner Perra stated that he would prefer a trail. He noted that most visitors of the preserves go around the trails once or a few times while visiting. Chairperson Kovich stated that it could be marketed that visitors could access that portion of the preserve with knee boots. Commissioner Vedadi stated that perhaps signage could help to educate people on how they could explore that southern portion of the preserve. Commissioner Faherty stated that it would be difficult to explore the southern portion of the preserve in the summer because of the type of vegetation. Mr. Kytonen stated that the boardwalk was originally included in the 2020 CIP but because of the cost was pushed out to 2023. Chairperson Kovich commented on the perception that visitors would see the boardwalk as a waste of money for the small area that it would provide access to and suggested that perhaps be kept natural. DISCUSS LIST OF IDEAS FROM COMMISSIONER VEDADI Commissioner Vedadi stated that she brainstormed a list of ways that they could promote the preserves in attempt to bring more people in to enjoy the areas, which was included in the packet. She reviewed some of her ideas that could perhaps expose more children, students and families to the preserves through different activities and/or programming opportunities. Commissioner Faherty stated that perhaps the Commission could partner with the YMCA as a walking activity. She commented that she also liked the stamp/badge idea. Commissioner Perra stated that perhaps one of these activities could be done in conjunction with Andover Fun Fest. Commissioner Vedadi stated that her ideas could be split into short-term and long-term plans to increase utilization of the preserves. Commissioner Faherty agreed that perhaps choosing one or two to begin with would help to spur motivation. Chairperson Kovich stated that there is a lot of grant funding available for taking children outdoors and perhaps there would be that type of funding available to pursue some of these programing ideas. Commissioner Vedadi stated that some of her ideas would take some effort from the Commission but would not be costly, using examples of partnership opportunities. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes —March 11, 2020 Page 3 Mr. Kytonen stated that the idea of tying an activity into Fun Fest may be a great way to start. Commissioner Faherty stated that the virtual badge idea would be an easy item that could be tied into Fun Fest. Commissioner Vedadi noted that could also be tied into the park system as well. Commissioner Perra stated that a few of the Commissioners could work on Fun Fest and tying one of these ideas into that. Commissioner Olson stated that at Fun Fest they could have a sign up for an event that would take place a few weeks later in the preserves. Commissioner Vedadi suggested that starting with Fun Fest and having a group of Commissioners work together to determine other programming that they could offer as well. Commissioner Lindberg noted that the possible partnership with the winery would be a unique opportunity that would most likely not have a cost for the City. Commissioner Ingebritson stated that his wife works for the Rum River Art Center, which offers some "plain air" activities but noted that it would be time prohibitive for that group to travel to Andover. He stated that perhaps there could be a contest where residents submit photographs or paintings of things in the preserves and a winner could be selected. Commissioner Faherty stated that perhaps the Rum River Art Center "plain air" group would want to judge the contest. Chairperson Kovich suggested that a work session or smaller work group meeting be held to discuss this topic further. Commissioner Faherty suggested that the focus first be on Fun Fest. It was the consensus that the smaller work group could meet in May and report back to the Commission at the June meeting. Mr. Kytonen stated that he would check with staff on the timing that would be necessary in order to appropriately advertise for a Fun Fest activity. DISCUSS LOGISTICS FOR NATURE PRESERVE TOUR WITH QCTV Mr. Kytonen reported that the last tours with QCTV were completed in fall of 2017 and highlighted features of preserves. He stated that QCTV is interested in doing another session of tours in the spring. Commissioners Olson, Lindberg, Vedadi and Chairperson Kovich stated that they would be interested in participating in the tours. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes —March 11, 2020 Page 4 Mr. Kytonen stated that he would communicate with those interested to schedule the QCTV tours. DISCUSS ITEMS FOR JOINT MEETING WITH CITY COUNCIL Mr. Kytonen stated that the Commission could attend on a work session agenda or could meet with the Council prior to a regular meeting on a night that there is not an EDA meeting. Chairperson Kovich stated that a list of topics was created at the last meeting to include on a joint meeting agenda. He briefly reviewed that list of topics to ensure that it is still accurate and will be prioritized as follows: east access to Martins Meadows, open space opportunities within development proposals (similar to park dedication), Dalske boardwalk, OSAC meeting schedule, and review of the OSAC mission. Mr. Kytonen noted that it would be helpful to have multiple members of the Commission attend. He stated that he will find out the date for the meeting and advise the Commission members. DISCUSS PURPOSEIMISSION OF OPEN SPA CE AD VISOR YCOMMISSION (OSAQ Mr. Kytonen stated that this was included to review as a final draft. Chairperson Kovich confirmed the consensus of the Commission with the final draft of the purpose/mission. OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Perra stated that there is a new neighborhood opening up on the east side of Maple View and noted that perhaps it would be helpful to have an access for that neighborhood to access the preserve. He stated that he can provide additional details to staff. a. Next Meeting: June 10, 2020 Noted. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Commissioner Perra, Second by Commissioner Faherty, to adjourn the meeting at 7:24 p.m. Motion passed 7-0. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kytonen Natural Resources Technician Drafted by: Amanda Staple, Recording Secretary 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 Purpose/Mission of Open Space Advisory Commission (OSAC) DATE: April 14, 2021 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. The Commission is requested to review the attached mission statement to familiarize yourself with the current and future vision; for the betterment of the nature preserves and the community as a whole. Respectfully submitted, Pf oil/ ) Z-119 Kameron Kytonen Attachment Open Space Advisory Commission (Nature Preserves) Mission Statement - City of Andover Open Space Advisory Commission (Nature Preserves) Mission Statement - City of Andover © Communicate to The City of Andover residents about the values and needs of the Nature Preserves. © Build awareness of the Nature Preserves and promote appropriate usage. © Provide recommendations for changes or enhancements to Nature Preserves, monitoring maintenance activities. Investigate opportunities for potential preserve expansion and acquisitions and provide recommendations to the Andover City Council. ©Serve as a liaison to the City of Andover residents, responding to questions or concerns about the Nature Preserves and the Open Space Advisory Commission. 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: April 14, 2021 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. There has been some control work done on buckthorn and other invasives the last couple years. Staff will discuss other proposed activities planned in the preserve in 2021 with the OSAC. Respectfully submitted, rKameroKytonen IffiTe J441 *A 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 Martin's Meadows Vegetation Management Activities DATE: April 14, 2021 REQUEST Over the last several years, there has been a lot of active management in Andover's oldest nature preserve, Martin's Meadows. Activities include but are not limited to: buckthorn control; timber -stand improvement (TSI); native prairie management, prickly ash removal thru forestry mowing; and native shrub planting. Staff will discuss other proposed activities planned in the preserve in 2021 with the OSAC. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kytonen 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 Options for Crossing at Dalske Woodlands (i.e. Boardwalk) DATE: April 14, 2021 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 The City applied for a grant under the DNR Federal Recreational Trail Program with hopes of getting funding to build the boardwalk in 2018 and 2019. Unfortunately, the City didn't get the grant on either occasion. Due to current high standards the boardwalk is expected to be built, finding the funding to make this happen is a challenge. The boardwalk has been inserted into the 2023 CIP. Thus, there are plans to hopefully build a boardwalk in the future, regardless of being awarded a grant. There may be other options for a crossing to consider as well. ACTION REQUESTED The Commission is requested to discuss the future crossing at Dalske Woodlands Preserve. Respectfully submitted, ameron Kyto en 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 Updates to Maps and Guide Signage at Preserves DATE: April 14, 2021 REQUEST As a part of ongoing progression of the preserves, there have been requests to increase signage to allow for an improved experience while navigating the trail system. Staff has been working with GIS and the Signs and Parks Departments to improve the maps on the website and install guide signs. This has occurred at Maple View and we're currently working on North Woods Preserve and Martin's Meadows. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kytonen 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 Meadows at Petersen Farms and New Access to Martin's Meadows DATE: April 14, 2021 REQUEST It's anticipated there will be a new access from the new development to the southeast corner of Martin's Meadows. The details are still being worked out between the City and applicable property owners. It is not yet a public access. The OSAC is requested to become familiar with the location of the proposed new access in relation to the developments. Respectfully submitted, Kameron K onen 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: Discuss Items for Joint Meeting with City Council DATE: April 14, 2021 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. The Commission is requested to brainstorm ideas for discussion items for another potential joint meeting with the City Council. Respectfully submitted, Z-A-�� Kameron Kytonen 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-6923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Recap of Nature Preserve Tour with QCTV DATE: April 14, 2021 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. Staff contacted a representative from QCTV and there was interest in doing an encore. This occurred in the summer of 2020. There were 3 commissioners involved with QCTV in walking the preserves. ACTION REQUESTED The Commission is requested to recap the second tour with QCTV and discuss potential future opportunities for showcasing the preserves. Respectfully submitted, Z-4 t7- Kameron Kytonen