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HomeMy WebLinkAboutApril 2, 2026 PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING APRIL 2, 2026 MINUTES The Meeting of the Andover Park and Recreation Commission was called to order by Chair Johnson on April 2, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Andover City Hall, 1885 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. Commissioners Present: Chair Bruckner Johnson, Commissioners Kristin Lackie, Jim Lindahl, Shane Stenzel, and Liliya Ustimchuk. Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Liza Shafto and Emily Honer. Also Present: Parks & Streets Operations Manager Jason Baumunk Community Development Director Joe Janish Planner Peter Hellegers Others OATH OF OFFICE – NEWLY APPOINTED COMMISSIONER The Oath of Office was administered to the newly appointed Commissioner, Liliya Ustimchuk, by Vice Chair Lindahl. RESIDENT FORUM Mr. Dennis Madden explained that he lives near Nordine’s Park and shared several suggestions for improvements based on frequent use of the park by neighborhood residents. Mr. Madden indicated that the park currently lacks seating near the ice skating rink and basketball court. Children and families often walk several blocks to use the park, and when the grass is wet, they end up sitting on the pavement. He noted that he brings his own equipment so he has a place to sit while his granddaughters ride their bikes. Madden pointed out that an existing bench near the playground has served well for many years and suggested adding one or two benches near the rink or court to provide seating for both children and adults. He also noted that older residents walk in the area for exercise and would benefit from places to sit and enjoy the park. Mr. Madden raised concerns about the area behind the basketball hoop, where the ground drops off into a ditch. He explained that balls and hockey pucks frequently roll into the ditch, making them difficult for children to retrieve. He noted that children sometimes crawl through fallen trees to retrieve balls, which raises safety concerns due to poison ivy Andover Park & Recreation Meeting Minutes – April 2, 2026 Page 2 and thistles in the area. Based on this, he suggested installing a section of fencing approximately 50 feet long and 4 feet high to prevent balls from rolling into the ditch. He indicated that this would be a relatively low-cost improvement and would not interfere with mowing or maintenance. Mr. Madden emphasized that the park is being used more frequently and is valued by the neighborhood. He expressed appreciation for any improvements the Commission may consider, particularly the addition of a bench in the near term. Commissioner Lindahl expressed appreciation for the input and noted that resident feedback is valuable, as the Commission is not always able to observe how all park areas are used or to identify issues firsthand. He indicated that this type of input helps in understanding community needs and improving park spaces. Commissioner Lackie expressed appreciation for Resident Dennis Madden’s efforts to help maintain and care for the park. He noted that Madden’s willingness to contribute makes a positive difference for the neighborhood and thanked him for his involvement. Commissioner Stenzel indicated that the Commission is actively identifying potential projects and noted that the suggested improvements would be added to the Capital Improvement Plan list. He thanked Resident Dennis Madden for bringing the items forward. Commissioner Lindahl indicated that staff would look into relocating or adding benches near the area discussed, noting that it is a relatively small improvement that may be addressed more quickly. Commissioner Stenzel suggested that available funding within the current Capital Improvement Plan for small projects could potentially be used to install at least one bench in the near term. He indicated that additional improvements could then be included in future Capital Improvement Plan considerations and expressed appreciation for the input provided. APPROVAL OF MINUTES February 5, 2026, and March 5, 2026, Park & Recreation Commission Regular Meetings Motion by Commissioner Stenzel, seconded by Commissioner Lackie, to approve the February 5, 2026, and March 5, 2026, Park and Recreation Commission Minutes as presented. Motion carried 4-ayes, 0-nays, 1-present (Ustimchuk). Andover Park & Recreation Meeting Minutes – April 2, 2026 Page 3 AGENDA APPROVAL Motion by Commissioner Stenzel, seconded by Commissioner Lackie, to approve the agenda for the April 2, 2026, Parks & Recreation Commission Regular Meeting as presented. Motion carried 5-ayes, 0-nays. WARD LAKE PRESERVE PUD SKETCH PLAN REVIEW Chair Johnson stated that, in the interest of full disclosure, he would recuse himself from discussion and voting on the item to avoid any potential conflict of interest. Mr. Janish provided an overview of a proposed sketch plan for a master planned Planned Unit Development (PUD) at 17613 Ward Lake Drive. He explained that the applicant, Team Fair, is seeking only informal feedback, with no formal action required at this stage. The property is located between Ward Lake and Lake Lehman in an area zoned for rural residential use, though much of it contains wetlands. Mr. Janish described the proposal as a nine-lot residential development, with each lot being at least two and a half acres. Access would be provided from Ward Lake Drive, with a cul- de-sac and a potential future extension to the east. An emergency access drive would use an existing easement, and a homeowners' association would maintain all roads. He noted that some lots are narrower than typically required, which would require a deviation through the PUD process. He added that if the project moves forward, it would proceed through the standard preliminary and final plat review process, with City Council consideration anticipated in early April. Commissioner Stenzel asked for clarification regarding the proposed emergency access drive, specifically whether the fire lane would be constructed with a bituminous surface or remain gravel. Mr. Janish clarified that the emergency access drive would consist of a 20-foot-wide bituminous surface, as indicated by the brown section shown on the plan. Commissioner Stenzel asked about the long-term plan for the emergency access drive, specifically how it would be affected if the adjacent property to the east were developed in the future, as shown in the conceptual “ghost” layout. Mr. Janish explained that the emergency access drive is included in part because the proposed cul-de-sac exceeds the typical 500-foot length standard. He noted that the additional access helps address safety concerns associated with the longer cul-de-sac. Mr. Janish indicated that if the adjacent property to the east is developed in the future, creating another connection point, the need for the emergency access could change. He explained that the drive could then be maintained as a trail by the homeowners' association or continue to function as an emergency access if desired. He added that, Andover Park & Recreation Meeting Minutes – April 2, 2026 Page 4 given the surrounding wetlands, maintaining a secondary access point could still be beneficial, although it may not be required once additional access is available. Commissioner Stenzel asked whether the emergency access drive would remain open for general use or be gated and serve primarily as a trail, noting interest in how it might be used to enhance trail connectivity. Mr. Janish explained that the emergency access drive would typically be gated, most likely at the connection to Ward Lake Drive, to prevent general vehicle traffic while still allowing access for emergency responders. He noted that this approach is consistent with other developments in which a gate is used to restrict access while maintaining a secondary entry point for safety. Commissioner Stenzel asked for clarification regarding the properties located to the north of the proposed development, noting a change in color on the map. He inquired whether those areas are part of the same ownership and what the color difference represents. Mr. Janish explained that the differently colored areas to the north represent portions of the property that are within a conservation easement due to lower, wetland conditions. He noted that while these areas are still part of the overall development and privately owned, they are set aside from development and would be maintained by the homeowners' association. He added that similar conservation areas are also shown to the south, indicating land that will remain undeveloped. Commissioner Lindahl asked whether the park system map could be displayed for reference during the discussion. Mr. Janish indicated that the referenced park would be located farther west, on the opposite side of the railroad tracks. Mr. Baumunk noted that the area is relatively isolated, with sparse housing, explaining that most properties in the vicinity consist of lots of two and a half acres or larger. Commissioner Lindahl indicated that he was trying to recall the nearest park to the area, but had not looked it up at that time. Mr. Baumunk indicated that Country Oaks Park is likely the nearest park to the area being discussed. He noted there was nothing walkable in this area. Commissioner Stenzel noted that Country Oaks Park is located to the north of the area being discussed. Mr. Baumunk explained that access to nearby parks is somewhat limited due to the area's rural nature. He noted that Country Oaks Park is located to the west, across the railroad tracks, while Oakview Park is to the south. He added that Forest Meadows Park is located Andover Park & Recreation Meeting Minutes – April 2, 2026 Page 5 farther north along Ward Lake Drive. He indicated that all of these parks are roughly the same driving distance from the site, with none located within close walking distance. Commissioner Lindahl indicated that he is not concerned about including a neighborhood park within the development, noting that the large lot sizes and rural location would not be suitable for a small tot lot or similar park amenity. Commissioner Stenzel asked about the condition of Ward Lake Drive, noting that it appears to be one of the few remaining gravel roads in the city and inquiring whether there are plans to pave it eventually. Mr. Baumunk explained that Ward Lake Drive is part of approximately 6 miles of remaining gravel roads in the city, with over 1 mile in that specific area. He indicated that paving these roads typically requires a petition from the residents, who must agree to fund the project, as developers generally construct the roads, which are later maintained by the city. Mr. Baumunk noted that while gravel roads require ongoing maintenance, including grading and dust control, some residents prefer them because they tend to reduce traffic speeds. He added that due to the cost and mixed preferences among residents, he does not anticipate these roads being paved in the near future. Commissioner Lindahl indicated he would be in favor of accepting cash rather than land dedication for park purposes. Commissioner Stenzel asked whether the decision regarding cash rather than land would return to the Commission for action at a later time, or whether it could be addressed by motion during the current meeting. Commissioner Lindahl indicated that the Commission is primarily providing direction to the developer to assist with planning and platting at this stage, rather than taking formal action. Commissioner Stenzel indicated that if Commissioner Lindahl were to move to accept cash instead of land, he would second the motion. Motion by Commissioner Lindahl, seconded by Commissioner Stenzel, to accept cash instead of land. Motion carried 4-ayes, 0-nays. OUTSTANDING ITEMS Mr. Baumunk provided a brief update, noting that there has been limited activity since the previous meeting. He indicated that most updates relate to trail matters and added that field schedules have been completed and shared separately after not being included in the original meeting packet. Andover Park & Recreation Meeting Minutes – April 2, 2026 Page 6 Commissioner Stenzel expressed concern that the submitted field schedule does not reflect an actual schedule; rather, it shows that associations have reserved all fields at all times. He indicated that while he does not object to associations using the fields, the document does not provide availability for other users. He noted that if an outside group were to request field use, he would not consider the current document a valid schedule and would instead request a more detailed and accurate schedule showing true field availability. Mr. Baumunk explained that the current field scheduling approach reflects standard practice given staffing limitations. He indicated that, without a dedicated recreation staff member, fields are reserved in bulk by associations, and any additional requests are coordinated by directing users to the association holding the reservation. He noted that associations then work out availability, after which a specific application is submitted. He added that maintaining a detailed hourly schedule would be difficult, as field usage frequently changes due to factors such as weather and game schedules. Commissioner Stenzel clarified that, while the current approach is consistent with other communities, the provided document should not be considered a true schedule but rather an indication that associations are using the fields. He emphasized that associations do not have exclusive use, and if an outside group submits a request, the city would coordinate with the association to determine availability. He added that, for the record, this distinction is important and noted that associations are generally cooperative in working with others to accommodate requests for field use. Mr. Baumunk provided additional updates on field usage and coordination, noting that community groups such as the Boy Scouts and local high school teams have been able to schedule events through coordination with the associations. He emphasized that associations are generally cooperative and work together to resolve scheduling conflicts, which helps prevent unused fields and reduces the need for staff intervention. He added that while some smaller soccer fields remain underutilized, most baseball and softball fields are actively used, and recent leadership changes within the associations have led to stronger collaboration. Mr. Baumunk also shared updates on trail projects, stating that the trail segment along Coon Creek from Prairie Road to Shadow Brook North is moving forward, with the bridge ordered, design completed, and the project currently out for bid, with construction anticipated this summer. He further noted progress on the Crosstown trail extension toward Prairie Road, including coordination with the railroad and initial direction on how to cross the tracks safely. Commissioner Lindahl asked when the application for the trail project was originally submitted, suggesting it may have been approximately three years ago. Andover Park & Recreation Meeting Minutes – April 2, 2026 Page 7 Mr. Baumunk explained that coordination with the railroad has been a lengthy and complex process, noting that existing wayside horns interfere with the proposed trail alignment. He indicated that modifying or relocating the horns would require full replacement, significantly increasing project costs and potentially making the project infeasible. He added that the city is pursuing grant funding, and the project's viability will depend on both grant awards and guidance from the railroad. Mr. Baumunk also provided updates on the Kelsey Lake Park trail project, noting that preliminary work, including tree removal, has begun and that a grant is already secured and must be used by June 2027. He explained that the original section of the trail is being replaced, and design plans are in progress. He further reported a structural issue with a boardwalk pier, where a weld failure caused it to sink. While the pier itself was under warranty, the cost of repairs was not covered because the warranty had expired. He noted that the issue appears isolated and not related to ground instability, which he described as a positive outcome for the long-term integrity of the structure. Commissioner Lindahl sought clarification on the cause of the boardwalk issue, initially thinking it involved a well, and then confirmed that it was actually due to a weld failure. Mr. Baumunk explained that the failed boardwalk pier extends approximately 22 feet below the surface into solid ground, where a welded coupler connects sections of the structure. He indicated that the weld on that coupler broke, which is unusual, as such failures are typically seen only during installation, not after placement. He noted that this appears to be a unique situation. Mr. Baumunk added that, aside from that issue, staff are preparing for the spring season and are waiting for field conditions to dry out before allowing use of park facilities. Chair Johnson asked whether the warranty on the boardwalk materials had fully expired. Mr. Baumunk clarified that the materials for the boardwalk carry a 10-year warranty, while the installation and workmanship were covered under a two-year warranty, which expired in December 2025. He then concluded his update and invited any additional questions. OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST Mr. Hellegers indicated that information regarding the proposed development is available on the city’s website and zoomed in on it during the meeting to make it easier to view. He noted that the site is located east of Round Lake Boulevard and south of Highway 61. He stated that the public comment period remains open through the following Thursday for those wishing to submit feedback. Andover Park & Recreation Meeting Minutes – April 2, 2026 Page 8 Mr. Baumunk noted that a link to the development information is available at the top of the city’s website homepage, making it easy for residents to access. He encouraged anyone with comments to submit them during the current comment period. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Commissioner Stenzel, seconded by Commissioner Lackie, to adjourn the meeting at 6:29 p.m. Motion carried 5-ayes, 0-nays. Respectfully Submitted, Sue Osbeck, Recording Secretary TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.