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HomeMy WebLinkAboutJune 19, 1997 /-- " "-..) o o CITY of ANDOVER 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.w. . ANDOVER. MINNESOTA 55304 . (612) 755-5100 PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION - JUNE 19, 1997 MINUTES A Regular Meeting of the Andover Park and Recreation Commission was calleq to order by Chairperson Dave O'Toole on June 19, 1997, 7:42 p.m., at The. Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. Commissioners present: Tom Anderson (arrived at 8:00 p.m.) Dave Blackstad, Al Grabowski (arrived at 8:19 p.m.), Jeff Kieffer (arrived at 7:50 p.m.) Brian Barringer, Jim Lindahl Park Coordinator, Todd Haas Others Commissioners absent: Also present: HAMILTON SQUARE PARK DEDICATION '\ '--/ Mr. Haas asked the Commission to recommend park dedication requirements for the proposed plat of Hamil ton Square, a seven-lot commercial development on the northeast corner of Hanson and Crosstown Boulevards. An appraisal has already been done; and a cash dedication equalling 10 percent of the fair market value comes to $100,000. The Commission was .leaning toward cash in lieu of land at the sketch plan stage. Brett Perry. Attornev for the developer - agrees with dedicating cash in lieu of land for park dedication. They do plan on getting their own appraisal, as they believe the City's appraisal is high. When their's comes back, they will submit it to the City for consideration as to the actual value. Mr. Haas also noted the Staff recommendation is to construct trails along both Hanson and Crosstown Boulevards, but not within the development itself, paid for on a 50/50 basis by the City and the developer. Chairperson O'Toole stated the Commission's understanding is the trails are being interpreted as part of the plat. That is a Council decision. The Commission gave verbal approval to accerting for park dedication. Mr. Haas stated it will developer has their appraisal done. cash in lieu of land come back when the HILLS OF BUNKER LAKE 5TH ADDITION/IP97-15 Chairperson O'Toole explained the City Council suggested the Staff look at constructing a soccer field in the park and asked what the residents c=) think of that proposal. (Commissioner Kieffer arrived at this time, 7:50 p.m.) i \ '- _/ \ '0 Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - June 19, 1997 Page 2 .I (Hills of Bunker Lake 5th Addition/IP97-15, Continued) Mr. Haas provided the background on the several softball field and playground equipment area layouts that were presented over the past couple years and now how the layout of a soccer field and playground area would fit in that park. The neighborhood has been invited tonight to provide input. Wendv Robinson, 963 139th Avenue - asked whether there would be more traffic with a soccer field or a softball field. Chairperson O'Toole explained the youth associations for both spo~u$dwschedule games on the field. Typically the field would be used until 8:30 or 9 p.m., Monday through Thursdays. The softball schedule would probably run May through the end of July. The soccer typically runs longer, from April through the end of July and possibly in the fall as well. There would be no adult softball leagues. Also, there are a few more youth on each team for soccer games. There would be a playground area whether a softball or soccer field is constructed. No winter activities are planned, though there are ice rinks in some of the other parks. Commissioner Blackstad felt it may be easier to install an ice rink on a soccer field. , j Mrs. Lvnda Levin. 13800 Svcamore - stated they live right on the park. Those living along the park do not have a problem with either a softball field or a soccer field or with the playground area. The concern is the location of those acti vi ties so people don't hang out in their back yards. They feel their lot is being dumped on three times by the location of the playground, the location of home plate and the location of the parking lot. All of those activities are very close to their back yard. (Commissioner Anderson arrived at this time, 8:00 p.m.) Ms. Levin - stated the biggest problem is the location of the playground equipment 10 feet from their lot line because it is used year round, often with children that are unsupervised. They feel a fair distance between the playground and their lot line would be 100 feet. There is also the issue of safety for their own children using the playground, others coming onto their property, and the devaluing of their property. She had a drawing of the park to scale with the most recent proposed layout of a softball field and playground area. She proposed an alternative to laying the softball field so the backstop is due south and the playground area moved further away f~om their lot. She stated if the City really cares about safety, it should consider constructing a fence along Bunker Lake Boulevard, which would also eliminate the issue of parents stopping on that street to drop off children. Mr. Haas felt a fence could be constructed along Bunker Lake Boulevard. It would not have to be the entire length of the park, possibly from the center of the parking lot west for a distance, not necessarily to the / western edge of the park. The fence would have to be to the north of the trail, as the trail will be in the boulevard area. / , ,) ~ Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - June 19, 1997 Page 3 \, j (Hills of Bunker Lake 5th Addition/IP97-l5, Continued) Ms. Levin - stated another option would be to fence the ball field. The Commission stated that probably would not happen because the field would be too small. It was also noted that the layout of the ball field with home plate due south means the first baseman would be looking into the sun, which is not desirable. In asking for a show of hands from the audience as to a preference for a softball field versus a soccer field, the vast majority of those presented voted for a softball field. Steve Nelson, 13886 Redwood Street - presented a petition from neighbors within the development of the Hills of Bunker Lake 5th Addition. He was one of the first families in that development, and they chose their lot because of the location to the railroad tracks, park, etc., and with the understanding that there was going to be a softball field in that park. He and the neighbors have been waiting three years for that softball field and were glad to hear the Lions Club had donated money for the playground equipment. There are 140+ homes in the neighborhood that are all equally affected by the recommendation of the Commission, and he felt they should all have been involved in this from early on. (Councilmember Grabowski arrived at this time, 8:19 p.m.) / Mr. Nelson continued there are specia~ needs children in the neighborhood, so it would be a disadvantage to have the playground farther away from the parking lot. He recommended keeping as much green space between the railroad tracks and the playground as possible, as that too is a safety issue. Many of his neighbors have limited back yards, but chose their lots with the idea that they are within walking distance of the park. The petition expressed the opinion of the neighbors that they have a softball field, playground and a parking lot within close proximity to each other to allow accessibility to the people who live in the neighborhood. He was pleased that the residents along the park do not have an issue with the softball field and feel that it can be worked out. Kim Savaria, 13820 Svcamore - also stated this is not a softball versus a soccer field issue. Their concerns are for safety, especially with the playground close to the parking lot. She is still apprehensive with letting her children play by a parking lot, plus it being so close to the street. She wouldn't care if the softball field were pushed right up to the berm nor would she mind having a ball stray into her back yard. But the safety issues need to be addressed, especially of kids being able to dart out into the busy street. The handicapped accessibility must be provided no matter where the playground is located. She felt a fence along Bunker Lake Boulevard is needed so children can't dart out into the street, asking that that be considered as a safety factor. Lori Holtberq. 160 166th Avenue. Ham Lake - stated having a playground j 10 feet from a lot line is really close. She also noted the installation of a fence is the only way to keep people from dropping children off along Bunker Lake Boulevard or to stop kids from running '. ) ~) Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - June 19, 1997 Page 4 J (Hills of Bunker Lake 5th Addition/IP97-l5, Continued) into the street. A fence would address the safety issue. She als0 suggested the ball diamond could be rotated a little so the sun isn't in the eyes of the first baseman. Matt Larson, Svcamore - felt they are at 2n impasse. He suggested looking at making the park just a playground area, or possibly also have a volley ball court or tennis court, and put the ball fields in other parks. His contention was the park is not big enough for all of the items being proposed for it. He asked the Park Board to reconsider what they want in the park and to add more green space and provide greater safety for the children. Mark Savaria, 13820 Svcamore - stated a skating rink would be more of a neighborhood function and would provide more of a year-round facility. There was considerably more discussion with the residents present regarding the proposal to eventually widen Bunker Lake Boulevard to four lanes, the construction of the trail all along Bunker Lake Boulevard, the landscaping being planned along the trail and within the park itself, suggestions for uses other than sports fields, that the park was originally designed for a softball field, and on safety factors, especially along Bunker Lake Boulevard. ) After further discussion, Mr. Haas thought only 200 to 300 feet of fence would be needed along Bunker Lake Boulevard, guessing it would be about $1,000. He stated he would try to add it as an alternative to the fencing that is being bid for several other parks. The Commission generally agreed that for safety purposes, a stretch of fence along Bunker Lake Boulevard is needed. That would also allow walkers/bikers to enter the park on either end but would still be a safety factor for the children in the playground area. As the discussion continued, all of the residents came to an agreement as to the layout of a softball field. It was agreed to move the field 20 feet or so to the west with the backstop positioned due east. By moving it west as much as possible, it leaves more open space so the playground could be moved south away from Lot 1. The safety factor would be addressed by the installation of the fence. Mr. Haas noted there is no intent to install bleachers for this ball field, at least not in the foreseeable future. '. ) Those residents directly abutting the park still had a concern as to how it would be located in relation to their lots, though they preferred the backstop close to their property lines than an unsupervised playground. Mr. Haas stated he would have the park staked and would then meet with those residents on site and work with them on any remaining concern8 they may have or in making minor adjustments. Mr. Haas stated if everyone is in agreement, he hoped to get the developer to regrade the park this year. It is possible the fence along Bunker Lake Boulevard could also be installed this year. Residents asked that a skating rink still be considered, even agreeing to keep it maintained. The Commission stated they will ask Staff to see if it is possible to put in an ice rink on that site. " ) " ) Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - June 19, 1997 Page 5 (Hills of Bunker Lake 5th Addition/IP97-15, Continued) The Commission summarized the agreement of the layout of the ballfield moved as far west as possible and the backstop positioned due east. The playground equipment would be moved as far south as possible and a four- foot fence installed along Bunker Lake Boulevard. The Commission also suggested Staff look at adding another five or six stalls to the parking lot to help with the overflow to avoid having to park on the City street. Also, Staff is to look at the possibility of an ice rink in the park. MOTION by Blackstad, Seconded by Anderson, to so move. Motion carried on a 5-Yes, 2-Absent (Barringer, Lindahl) vote. The Commission recessed at 9:07; reconvened at 9:15 p.m. MEADOWOOD PARK/148TH AVENUE NW/VOLLEYBALL COURT Chairperson O'Toole noted the Commission met at the Meadowood Park prior to this evening's meeting. It appears that there is enough room for a volleyball court. MOTION by Kieffer, Seconded by Blackstad, to move forward as far as installing the volleyball court in Meadowood Park, funds to come from park dedication. DISCUSSION: It was suggested the Staff design the layout north/south, which is best for sunlight. The intent is to have it done this year. Motion carried on a 5-Yes, 2-Absent (Barringer, Lindahl) vote. WELL #6 DISCUSSION, CONTINUED/IP95-12 Chairperson O'Toole stated he met with the engineer and Public Works Staff regarding the location of Well #6. The flat area close to Crosstown that was recommended by the Commission is too close to the proposed location of Well #7 in Woodland Estates. Moving it further to toward the parking lot in the southern portion of the park can't be done either because of the ditch and the setbacks. He is comfortable with the location as proposed by Staff in the southern portion of Sunshine Park. Commissioner Grabowski stated he too met with Staff and now agrees with the proposed location of Well #6. Less than six trees will have to be spade out, which will then be placed around the perimeter of Sunshine Park. His only concern is for vandalism, stating it still may need a light over the top of it. Mr. Haas stated he will mention that to the Engineering Department. He stated while doing the plans, they will also be checking on whether or not the water from the well can be used for irrigation at Sunshine Park without having to be treated first. Commissioner Grabowski also suggested consideration be given to installing Well #7 in the flat area on the west side of the park. Mr. Haas stated he will also mention that to the Engineering Department. , / The Commission then gave verbal approval to the recommendation by Staff for the location of Well #6 in the southern portion of Sunshine Park. \, J '--) Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - June 19, 1997 Page 6 j 1998 PARK CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT BUDGET, DISCUSSION Mr. Haas stated they are starting the 1998 budget process. He has suggested to the Public Works Superintendent to budget $100,000 for capital improvements for 1998, plus $100,000 for Kelsey-Round Lake Park. The Commission suggested the item be placed on the next Agenda for a more detailed discussion, which will allow them time to review th-c proposal. REVIEW ALTERNATE BIDS/IP95-24/COON CREEK BIICIWAY/WALKWAY TRAIL Mr. Haas noted Alber Asphalt Company has submitted the low bid of $256,107.50 for the main portion of the Coon Creek trail. The alternate bid portion includes additional landscaping of about $18,500. He asked if the Commission is interested in awarding the alternate bid. The Commission generally felt the quotes for the various trees and shrubs were high. The suggestion was not to award the alternate bid but to rebid additional landscaping in the fall when they anticipated receiving better prices for those items. They also preferred working directly with a landscaping company as opposed to working through a contractor for those items. If possible, the Commission also preferred to pull all of the landscaping out of the base bid and have all of it done separately in the fall. Mr. Haas stated he would suggested that to Mr. Erickson, the City's Engineer, to see if that is possible. Greq Larson - agreed with the Commission I s decision and appreciated their trying to get more landscaping for the dollar. He stated Mr. Haas, Mr. Erickson and the City Forester met at his house and looked at the trail from his deck. There aren't enough trees to provide privacy, so that is why the alternate was bid. The neighborhood has to live with the trail and its problems, but they would like to see the Park Board commit some dollars and plant trees and shrubs to provide some privacy. Another concern is that the trees and shrubs be a boost to nature, something that would create a dense forest area for deer to hide and for winter forage. The neighbors would be more than willing to take care of anything the City plants. Commissioner Kieffer suggested some fast-growing as well as slow-growing vegetation be planted. The Commission generally agreed. Mr. Haas stated he would bring the item back for an update. Mr. Haas stated the remainder of the alternate bid was $14,500 for a chain link material of vinyl coating under the bridge. The Commission did not agree to that portion of the alternate bid. RE-SCHEDULE PARK AND RECREATION MEETING , / The Commission agreed to reschedule the July 3 meeting to Wednesday, July 2, 1997. \. ./ \. ) Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - June 19, 1997 Page 7 \. / CHAIRMAN'S REPORT Dumping along Coon Creek trail - Commissioner Anderson noted there are grass clippings dumped along the proposed Coon Creek trail. If they were spread out, it would not be a problem; but most are just in piles and it is very unsightly. Mr. Haas stated he will have the Code Enforcement officer take care of it. Parking at Strootman's ball field - Commissioner Kieffer stated people are parking right on the field rather than in the parking lot at Strootman park. Mr. Haas stated he will ask the Sheriff to check on it and tag if necessary. Electrical service at Sunshine Park - Commissioner Grabowski stated there are not enough circuits in the building. He received an estimate of $465 from an electrical contractor to wire in new circuits. Chairperson 0' Toole stated he could obtain another quote. Mr. Haas stated once he has both quotes, he can authorize it to be done since it is under $1,000. Commissioner Grabowski asked that it be done prior to the major tournaments taking place the next few weeks. Parking on the west side of Sunshine Park - Commissioner Grabowski stated cars have been parking on the flat area west of Sunshine Park. Apparently they have seen some construction crew park there, but the concern is running over the sprinkler heads in there. The Sheriff's Department was notified, and there are signs that say no parking. .' Trail in Shadowbrook - Mr. Haas reported Staff is putting together a punch list to go over with the contractor. Top soil and seed are generally part of the contract. Commissioner Grabowski did not feel the topsoil is adequate. Parking for Field 4, Ci ty Hall Park Complex - The Commission noted there is no place to park to get to Field 4 because of the inability to par~ along either side of the street. The feeling was that if parking were allowed on one side, it would alleviate much of the problem. Mr. Haas stated Council approval is needed to remove the no parking signs. He will put the item on the next agenda, asking that the no parking signs along the east side of Tower Drive be removed. Vandalism at Sunshine Park Commissioner Grabowski reported four witnesses saw a young man drive his vehicle causing black marks in the tar of the parking lot and also drive across a soccer field causing damage. The person was cited, but he felt either the individual or the soccer association he was associated with should pay for the damages. . / Lack of supervision during Community Education at Sunshine Park _ Commissioner Grabowski noted several incidents of children in the well room of the Concession Building, in the meeting room, taking the phone off the hook, etc., because the supervisor is in the field but is not watching those children in and around the Concession Building. He stated that is a problem that must be corrected. Mr. Haas stated he will call the Community School personnel tomorrow to let them know of the problems and concerns. .I ",- / Regular Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - June 19, 1997 Page 8 \ (Chairman's Report, Continued) Construction schedule for Woodland Estates - Commissioner Grabowski was concerned with the ability to enter/exit Sunshine Park because of the schedule to rip up the driveway for the utilities. Mr. Haas stated the driveway will be open during the tournaments. Contribution by the Andover Athletic Association Commissioner Grabowski presented $1,000 to the City on behalf of the Andover Athletic Association for the utility vehicle recently purchased by the Parks Department. Chairperson O'Toole suggested the City send a letter thanking those who supported this. Installations Commissioner Grabowski reported Kevin Start had installed a plaque acknowledging all people who supported and donated to Sunshine Park. The equipment in Oak Bluff, Pleasant Oaks and Langseth is also installed. MOTION by Blackstad, Seconded by Anderson, to adjourn. on as-Yes, 2-Absent (Barringer, Lindahl) vote. The meeting adjourned at 10:11 p.m. Motion carried Respectfully mitted, ~~~ <evl Recording Secretary J