HomeMy WebLinkAboutMarch 4, 1999
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CITY of ANDOVER
PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING - MARCH 4,1999
MINUTES
The Regular Bi-MontWy Meeting of the Andover Park and Recreation Commission was
called to order by Chairperson Dave Blackstad on March 4, 1999, 7:35 p.m., at the Andover
City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota.
Commissioners present:
Dave Blackstad, Al Grabowski, Jim Lindahl, and Dave
O'Toole
Tom Anderson, Brian Barringer, and Jeff Kieffer
Park Coordinator, Todd Haas
Public Works Supervisor of Parks, Kevin Starr
Others
Commissioners absent:
Also present:
RESIDENTS FORUM
No one was present to address the Residents Forum.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
February 18,1999
Motion by Grabowski, seconded by Blackstad, to approve the Minutes as written. Motion
carried 3 ayes, 0 nays, 1 present (Lindahl), 3 absent (Anderson, Barringer and Kieffer).
DISCUSS REQUEST FROM WOODLAND DEVELOPMENT/98-17/BUNKER LAKE
BOULEVARD RECONSTRUCTION
Mr. Haas explained the Park and Recreation Commission is requested to discuss the request
by Woodland Development Corporation regarding the proposed trailway on the north side of
Bunker Lake Boulevard in Woodland Creek, Lot 1, Block 8, Project 98-17. He advised if the
Commission does not recommend to the City Council the proposal by Woodland
Development, it will be necessary for the Anoka County Highway Departmentto purchase -
the property from Woodland Development. Mr. Haas noted this is also a developed parcel
with sewer, water, and street improvements. He explained if it is not donated, it will have to
be purchased, possibly through condemnation. Mr. Haas noted a representative of Woodland
Development Corporation was not present. He stated Mr. Westlund indicated they would be
willing to donate or deed the land to the City in exchange for consideration for future park
dedication.
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Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting
Minutes - March 4, J 999
Page 2
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Commissioner Grabowski stated he does not see where this is a responsibility for the City
since it is a fully developed area and located along a County roadway. Mr. Haas reviewed
the variety of funding sources.
Commissioner Lindahl stated if it happens that's fine but he does not think the Park and
Recreation Commission needs to take action at this time.
Motion by Lindahl, seconded by Grabowski, to recommend to the City Council to not accept
the proposal by Woodland Development to donate or deed the land necessary for the trailway
system in exchange for consideration for future park dedication. Motion carried 4 ayes, 0
nays, 3 absent (Anderson, Barringer and Kieffer).
REVIEW SITE PLANnIMBER RIVERS PARK/WOODLAND DEVELOPMENT
Mr. Haas explained the Park and Recreation Commission is requested to review the proposed
site plan for Timber Rivers Park located in Timber River Estates. He noted stairs were built
that did not meet ADA requirements so the developer was required to redesign to meet those
requirements.
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Kevin Starr. Public Works Supervisor of Parks, stated it looks like a good plan. He stated the
stairs are in place so he sees no reason to require they be removed but a railing could be
added to increase safety. He explained this would be a perfect location for a canoe launch.
Commissioner Grabowski suggested the stairs be allowed to remain unless they present a
problem in the future or are damaged by winter ice conditions.
Motion by Grabowski, seconded by O'Toole, to recommend to the City Council approval of
the revised site plan for Timber Rivers Park submitted by Woodland Development based on
the rationale that it now meets ADA requirements. Motion carried 4 ayes, 0 nays, 3 absent
(Anderson, Barringer and Kieffer).
PUBLIC WORKS UPDATE
Ms. Starr reviewed colored pictures of proposed park signs and the City of Andover logo. He
advised of the costs involved and reviewed the building materials that can be considered.
Consensus was reached to direct staff to obtain additional information on 4 foot by 8 foot and
4 foot by 4 foot limestone signs with lighting and sandblasted lettering, 3-color scheme, City
logo, and to create a design that can be used consistently at all parks and entry monuments.
The Commission will consider the appropriate size when the exact location is determined. If
appropriate, the Lions logo will also be included in the design based on input from the Lions.
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Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting
Minutes - March 4, 1999
Page 3
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Motion by Lindahl, seconded by O'Toole, to direct staff to proceed with acquisition of sign
quotes for the parks as discussed. Motion carried 4 ayes, 0 nays, 3 absent (Anderson,
Barringer and Kieffer).
DISCUSS 5 YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Mr. Haas presented the 5 Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), noting it covers from 1999
to 2004. He asked if staff should draft a recap of the Plan for presentation at the next meeting
and inclusion in the Comprehensive Plan.
The Park and Recreation Commission agreed.
Commissioner Grabowski suggested the 138th Avenue Park be removed from the CIP since
there is no source for funding. He asked that the age of equipment also be included.
Chairperson Blackstad asked staff to prepare a drawing for every park so they can be
included in a three-ring binder for each of the Commissioners. Commissioner Grabowski
agreed and suggested the back of the drawing list the equipment contained in each park. Mr.
Haas stated this is on staffs work plan but their work load currently does not allow enough
time to complete it.
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DISCUSS 5 YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT REPLACEMENT PLAN
Ibis item was tabled to the next meeting when staff will present the Plan.
DISCUSS NEW WELL AT HA WKRIDGE PARK/99-2, CONT.
Mr. Haas explained the Park and Recreation Commission is requested to continue their
discussion regarding the possibility of constructing a well at Hawkridge Park, Project 99-2.
He reviewed that at the last meeting, the Commission had requested staff to determine what it
would cost if the Fire Department were not going to use the well. He noted the cost is
$40,000 higher if the Fire Department is going to use it.
Commissioner Grabowski reviewed the benefits that would be gained in efficiency and
increased benefits to all residents in providing fire protection, streets, and parks. Chairperson
Blackstad concurred and noted it may also allow the creation of soccer fields if the baseball
field is removed. Mr. Haas suggested the Commissioners discuss this with the
Councilmembers at their upcoming meeting when park dedication fees will also be discussed.
Chairperson Blackstad suggested the City of Oak Grove be contacted about this possibility.
Mr. Haas noted they can be charged for metered use. He again suggested these options be
" presented to the Council to determine what they want to do.
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The Park and Recreation Commission agreed.
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Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting
Minutes - March 4, 1999
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DISCUSS WILD IRIS PARK IMPROVEMENTS/COST ESTIMATES
Mr. Haas explained the Park and Recreation Commission is requested to review the cost
estimates for Wild Iris Park improvements. He reviewed the cost estimate of $121,165.73
and commented on the components it contained. Mr. Haas advised that the estimate will
change based on what the final plan includes.
Chairperson Blackstad stated he would like the Lions Club to split the cost 50%/50%.
Commissioner O'Toole asked if Metro Transit has contacted the City. Mr. Haas stated they
have not and suggested the Planning Department be approached for information on that issue.
DISCUSS ROSE PARK IMPROVEMENTS/COST ESTIMATES
Mr. Haas explained the Park and Recreation Commission is requested to review the cost
estimates for Rose Park improvements. He reviewed the cost estimate of $81,316.50 and
commented on the components it contained.
REVIEW DRAFT SITE PLANnERRACE PARK
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Mr. Haas explained the Park and Recreation Commission is requested to review the proposed
draft site plan for Terrace Park.
Chairperson Blackstad asked if it would be better to come straight in on 135th A venue farther
north and relocate the playground closer to the ballfield. Mr. Haas noted this would result in
cars parking to the west and create the same problem as before. He explained this park is
very limited as to what can change.
REVIEW DRAFT SITE PLANIHAWKRIDGE PARK
Mr. Haas explained the Park and Recreation Commission is requested to review the proposed
draft site plan for Hawkridge Park.
Discussion ensued regarding where the well would be located. Mr. Haas suggested the
Council be asked about the arrangement.
Chairperson Blackstad stated he thinks the parking lot may need to be increased in size if the
soccer fields are created.
It was agreed that once the well location is determined, they will proceed with the site plan.
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Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting
Minutes - March 4, 1999
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APPROVE QUOTES/99-6/BLEACHERS FOR BALLFIELDS AT SUNSHINE PARK
Mr. Haas explained the Park and Recreation Commission is requested to approve the quotes
for two bleachers, Project 99-6, for two small softballlbaseball fields located near the south
end of Sunshine Park. He advised the bleachers to be purchased will meet the 1997 Uniform
Building Codes (UBC) and after the bleachers are installed, staff will request the Building
Department to make a final inspection to ensure compliance. Mr. Haas advised this was
presented to the City Council on March 2, 1999 and approved subject to Park and Recreation
Commission approval.
Mr. Starr advised of work that will be completed on the existing bleachers to gain compliance
with the UBC.
Motion by Lindahl, seconded by Grabowski, to recommend to the City Council approval of
the quotes for two bleachers, Project 99-6, for two small softballlbasebal1 fields located near
the south end of Sunshine Park.
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Commissioner O'Toole asked what will be done if the bleachers are constructed and do not
meet the UBC. Mr. Haas stated the City will issue a Building Code violation. Commissioner
O'Toole asked if the Commission should consider purchasing more equipment from a
company that currently has a violation.
Commissioner Grabowski stated the company resells the equipment and probably believed
the existing bleachers met compliance. He agreed it must be specifically stated that the new
bleachers must meet the current UBC.
Motion carried 4 ayes, 0 nays, 3 absent (Anderson, Barringer and Kieffer).
APPROVE QUOTES/99-9/S0CCER GOALS AT VARIOUS PARKS
Mr. Haas explained the Park and Recreation Commission is requested to recommend
approval for the City Council quotes for the purchase of soccer goals at various parks, Project
99-9. He advised that soccer goals are needed for the field east of City Hall, the field west of
City Hall, at Hidden Creek North, and at Timber Rivers Park. Mr. Haas recommended
approving the quote from MN- WS Playground, Inc. in the amount of $5,170.52 with funding
from park dedication funds. Mr. Starr stated the goals from Hidden Creek will be moved to
Hawkridge Park as soon as weather permits.
Commissioner Grabowski suggested the words "City of Andover" be stenciled on the poles
to discourage theft.
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Motion by O'Toole, seconded by Lindahl, to recommend to the City Council approval of the
soccer goal quote from MN-WS Playground, Inc. in the amount of $5,170.52 with funding
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from park dedication funds. Motion carried 4 ayes, 0 nays, 3 absent (Anderson, Barringer and
Kieffer).
DISCUSS TRAIL FEE REQUIREMENT
Mr. Haas explained the Park and Recreation Commission is requested to reconsider the trail
fee requirement. He presented the legal opinion prepared by the City Attorney and explained
that staff verified with the City of Eagan that the trail fee was not challenged in the law suit,
only the road fee. Mr. Haas stated staff raised the issue with the City Attorney to include a
trail fee with the building permit process.
Chairperson Blackstad stated he read the legal opinion and thinks the fee should be brought
back but placed on the final plat rather than the building permit.
Commissioner Grabowski suggested the trail fee should be $200 per lot instead of $300 and
be used to help pay for the burden placed on the internal trails since the developer is still
100% responsible for trails along the corridor.
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Mr. Haas stated this issue was removed from the Council's agenda so the Park and
Recreation Commission could again address the trail fee.
Commissioner Grabowski suggested the developer be responsible for their own corridors
plus be charged a lower per residential unit fee ($ I 50-$250) which can be charged on the
final plat to support interior trails. He said he agrees with the legal opinion that if charged to
the developers it is legitimate but not if charged to the builders through the building permit
process.
Commissioner O'Toole noted the Commission has already determined a trail along a corridor
is a transportation issue and not a park issue He asked if that detennination will be relayed to
the Council. Mr. Haas stated it would be.
Chairperson Blackstad reviewed a conversation he had with City of Bloomington staff and
advised they have determined their commercial base impacts their trail system almost as
much as their residential areas.
Commissioner Grabowski concurred and suggested any commercial development along a
corridor be 100% responsible for the trail and the trail fee for a residential area be $250 per
unit. He stated this is the system being used by Mounds View and would eliminate the
50%/50% formula.
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Motion by Grabowski, seconded by Lindahl, to recommend to the City Council approval of a
trail fee of 100% for trails along corridors for commercial properties and a $250 per
residential unit trail fee for residential properties which will be based on and due with the
final plat. Motion carried 4 ayes, 0 nays, 3 absent (Anderson, Barringer and Kieffer).
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Minutes - March 4, 1999
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REVIEW ISSUES LIST
Mr. Haas updated the Commission regarding the status of issues contained on the issues list.
Consensus was reached to delete Hawkridge Park Well, Timber Rivers Park, Site Plans for
Rose, Wild Iris, Terrace and Hawkridge, and bleachers.
Chairman Blackstad asked that an item be added to create a profile of each park.
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT
Commissioner Grabowski asked about the field reservations for 1999. Mr. Haas stated the
newspaper advertised a deadline of March 5, 1999. He reviewed those received to-date.
Commissioner Grabowski asked about the concession bids. Mr. Haas explained that staff is
considering hiring a park and recreation intern who would be responsible for operating
concessions. This option will be discussed with the Council.
Commissioner Grabowski commented on the late time for such a consideration and
suggested the City renew the contract with C&H Distributing since the concessions open in
~ '. one month.
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Motion by O'Toole, seconded by Grabowski, to recommend to the City Council to renew the
C&H Distributing concession contract for a two year time period.
Commissioner Grabowski stated his concern that the Commission's direction to obtain
quotes was not followed through with. He asked how an interim in this position would
impact the union. Commissioner Grabowski commented on the need for a plan prior to
starting such an endeavor.
Commissioner Lindahl emphasized the recommendation is being made based on previous
positive experience with C&H Distributing.
Chairperson Blackstad raised the issue of cleaning and maintenance of the concession
building during weekend tournaments. He noted that in the past it was suggested that portion
of work be offered to Cory Coons but that was also not done.
Mr. Haas stated he will get more information on these issues and provide an update at the
next meeting.
Motion carried 4 ayes, 0 nays, 3 absent (Anderson, Barringer and Kieffer).
Commissioner Grabowski commented on the recent newspaper article about the City
Administrator's analogy of gambling. Commissioner Grabowski took issue with the
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Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting
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comments made and asked Chairperson Blackstad for his impression of their conversation.
Chairperson Blackstad stated the question asked by Commissioner Grabowski was how much
the Lions were being charged for the room in back and the answer was one dollar a year just
like the association.
There was no other business to come before the Andover Park and Recreation Commission.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Grabowski, seconded by Lindahl, to adjourn. Motion carried 4 ayes, 0 nays, 3
absent (Anderson, Barringer and Kieffer). 'The meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Carla Wirth, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.