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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-04-25 PRC Packetliwater THE BIRTH P L A C E OF M i F3 N F' 0 1 A Stillwater Parks and Recreation Commission meetings are streamed live on the city website and available to view on Channel 16. Public can participate in the meeting by attending in person at City Hall, logging in online at zoomgov.com/join or by calling 1-646- 828-7666 and enter the meeting ID number: 161 250 2450 AGENDA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION April 25, 2022 @ 7 PM I. CALL TO ORDER II. ROLL CALL III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. March 28, 2022 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes IV. OPEN FORUM — the open forum allows the public to address the commission on subjects which are not a part of the meeting. Commission may take action, reply, or give direction to staff. Please limit your comments to 5 minutes or less. V. NEW BUSINESS 2. Bridge the Valley Bike Rally Event Application 3. Summer Tuesdays Event Application 4. World Caring Day Event Application 5. Skate Board Park Introduction 6. Friends of Lily Lake Presentation 7. New Heights North Hill Inclusive Playground Presentation VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS VII. DISCUSSION ITEMS 8. Staff Updates 9. Commission Member Updates 10. Other Business VIII. ADJOURN Next Meeting: May 23, 2022 at 7 p.m. The Birthplace of Minnesota 216 4th Street N, Stillwater, MN 55082 651-430-8800 www.ci.stillwater.mn.us PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES March 28, 2022 REGULAR MEETING 7:00 P.M. Vice Chair Souter called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Vice Chair Souter, Commissioners Christensen, Johnson, Macswain Absent: Chairman Brandt, Commissioners Nelson, Weidner, Councilmember Polehna Staff: Parks Superintendent Grode APPROVAL OF MINUTES Possible approval of minutes of February 28, 2022 meeting Motion by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Christensen, to approve the minutes of the February 28, 2022 meeting. All in favor. OPEN FORUM There were no public comments. NEW BUSINESS 516 Myrtle Street West Park and Trail Dedication Requirements Parks Superintendent Grode stated that Steve and Lynn Thron are requesting to split the property at 516 Myrtle Street West into two individual lots. An existing structure on the north half of the lot will remain; a new lot would be created on the south which may contain a single- family residence in the future. All residential subdivisions are required to provide land for future public park and trail uses. The property is not located within 1/4 mile of a park but is within 1/4 mile of a school with playground equipment and open field areas. City staff recommends the Park and Recreation Commission recommend the Council accept a cash dedication of $2,500 for the 516 Myrtle Street West subdivision park and trail obligations. These fees would be due prior to the City's release of plats for filing with Washington County. Motion by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Christensen, to recommend the Council accept a cash dedication of $2,500 for the 516 Myrtle Street West subdivision park and trail obligations. All in favor. Discuss Potential Changes to Event Policies and Fee Schedule Mr. Grode reviewed potential amendments to event policies, especially for special events hosted in downtown Stillwater. The goal is to simplify the process and the fees. City staff costs (mostly Public Safety) would be a service provided as a basic level of service. This allows Public Safety and Public Works staff to focus on the true needs of the event and avoid negotiations on the number of officers or Public Works staff. After review by the Commissions, staff will present the recommendations to the City Council at a future Council workshop. Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting March 28, 2022 Commissioner Christensen questioned the liquor license jump from $25/day to $1,000/day. Mr. Grode replied that in the past the City would bill an event separately for police presence when there is a liquor license. Now that cost is being rolled into the cost of the liquor license. Vice Chair Souter asked if the goal is that returning events won't have to go before the Parks Commission. Mr. Grode replied that discussion included streamlining the application process for "legacy" events that have returned for more than one year, and having staff approve some of those events. Currently, Commissions and staff are not allowed to waive fees - only the Council may do that. But some of those events may be able to move through an application quicker. Vice Chair Souter said if events don't require Commission review and approval, it would be helpful if events were presented as part of staff reports. Commissioner Christensen questioned whether there is room for new events downtown. The Parks Commission has denied some new events over the years that didn't seem appropriate or when downtown seemed overbooked. If the Parks Commission is to continue to be the watchdog for how much is too much, events would still need to pass through the Commission. Mr. Grode replied at this time, the staff recommendation is that all events still come to the Commissions for review, even the legacy events. Before applications come to the Commissions, staff reviews them and Public Safety decides whether they can handle the event. There is definitely increased interest in new and bigger events. As to whether there is room for new events, there are open weekends, but back to back events can have negative effects on the park and present challenges for Public Safety and Public Works. Commissioner Christensen asked, is the City's objective to promote business downtown, or are residents saying there's already too much? How can the Parks Commission find out if the City is at the saturation point right now? He would be hesitant to approve any new events without firm data. As a track coach, he sees running races being promoted months before the race organizers ever come and apply with the City - they assume the City will approve it. He would like to know if the Council thinks there are already enough events. Commissioner Macswain said there are mixed messages. What he sees on Council agendas is "we need to do more." But there is deferred maintenance and things needing attention downtown. He feels events are at capacity downtown. He found it helpful to learn that the City has spent $650,000 on events this year. He would like to carve this out in future years by event. Commissioner Macswain asked how much of Mr. Grode's time is spent on events. Mr. Grode responded 30-50%. The City may get an event coordinator in the future but currently, events fall under his responsibility. Parks Sign Inventory and Discussion Mr. Grode stated that the Parks Commission and staff have received suggestions for better signage at parks, open spaces and trails. Many City parks have no signage at all, or signage is inadequate and lacks consistent branding. Staff is seeking feedback and direction. Commissioner Johnson agreed signs need updating. A map or diagram format would be helpful, especially for trails. Page 2of4 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting March 28, 2022 Vice Chair Souter noted signs would probably have to be budgeted. She knows of some cities that have gotten funding to make signage more consistent. Mr. Grode said that if signs are made in-house with a City logo or branding, it would be easier to replace signs when needed. He would like input on styles of signs. Vice Chair Souter suggested seeing if the City's trail plan has recommendations for signage. Commissioner Macswain suggested there are probably three levels of signs - open space/natural area with map, neighborhood or community park, and "headliner" parks. UNFINISHED BUSINESS City Park and Open Space Issues Discussion Mr. Grode led discussion of complaints about litter and personal use of City property and residents mowing natural areas that are not intended to be maintained, as brought up by Margaret Boettcher at the February 28 Parks Commission Meeting. The Parks Commission is responsible for parks, trails and open spaces according to City Code. The Zoning Administrator resigned and the City is working to fill that position. Community Development Director Gladhill said that position will eventually partner with the Parks Department to address these types of issues. Staff is looking for feedback on moving forward with the actions requested. Commissioner Johnson remarked that rules should be put in place so a citizen doesn't have to come forward every ten years to address these issues. Open spaces could be inspected biannually or annually. Often, property owners abutting open space areas mistakenly assume that they own the property. Commissioner Christensen added there are no signs delineating City property. If there were adequately spaced signs indicating it is City land, most people would comply. Mr. Grode responded that signs could be placed so as not to impede the view. Vice Chair Souter said she would defer to staff judgement. It would be good to send a letter to property owners and if there is staff time, to remove the old docks and other items. Commissioner Macswain noted that at Nightingale Park, it appears that the City mows toward the houses. A trail going to Brewer's Pond doesn't look like it is City maintained. Making it a maintained trail could help reduce the problem behavior in the future. DISCUSSION ITEMS Staff Updates Mr. Grode showed the playground equipment for Anez Ridge and Meadowlark Park that will be installed this year based on feedback from residents. He reported that the pickleball courts will be opened April 1 depending on the weather. Commission Member Updates Commissioner Macswain asked if there is an update on a new location for the skateboard park. Mr. Grode said staff is looking for a location close to downtown but not in downtown. Commissioner Christensen asked how long will the trail south of the Dock Cafe be closed? There is now a barricade half knocked down, which is confusing for visitors. A detour route should be figured out with signs to direct bicyclists from the Dock Cafe to the Oasis. Mr. Grode said work will be done there this spring. He has no definite date for completion. Page 3 of 4 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting March 28, 2022 Other Business There was no other business. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Macswain, to adjourn. All in favor. The meeting was adjourned at 8:16 p.m. The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. April 25, 2022. Stephanie Souter, Vice Chair ATTEST: Jason Grode, Parks Superintendent Page 4of4 illwater THE BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA DATE: April 25, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Jason Grode, Parks Superintendent SUBJECT: Bridge the Valley Bike Rally Event Application BACKGROUND Attached is the event application for the 2022 Bridge the Valley Bike Rally event, which was submitted by the Stillwater Sunrise Rotary Club. The 2nd annual event has been proposed to take place on Sunday, August 14, 2022. This event includes multiple bike routes, all starting and finishing at the end of the Lift Bridge in Stillwater. The proposed routes include a 10 mile "family" route, a 25 mile "fun" route, 45 and 70 mile "challenge" routes, and a 75 mile "gravel" route. All rides have St. Croix river crossings and routes in Minnesota and Wisconsin. After the ride, all participants will be able to park their bikes in a secure "corral" and enjoy after ride treats, food, drink, and live entertainment in North Lowell park. This event is for all ages and levels of experience. The event organizer has requested the use of North Lowell Park and Parking Lots 4 and 5. The event organizer will be charged for any city services, materials rendered and parking spaces used according to the current fee schedule at the time of the event. ACTION REQUESTED Upon satisfactory review of the application, the Parks and Recreation Commission should pass a motion recommending approval of the Bridge the Valley Bike Rally 2022 event application. Attachments: Event Application Form, Site Plans and Routes iilwater THE BIRTHPLACE OF MIMMESOTA EVENTS PERMIT APPLICATION 216 North 4 th Street, Stillwater, MN 55082 Telephone: 651-430-8837 Fax: 651-430-8810 Incomplete applications or applications received after deadline will not be accepted. See Event Instructions for application deadline and fees. Date of Application: 3/7/22 Office Use Only Date Application Received Type: Event Special Event Event w/ Contract Event Information Title/Name of Event BRIDGE THE VALLEY - Bike Rally Event Date/Time: Set up: Date 8/13/22 Time 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Actual Event: Date 8/14/22 Time 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM Clean up: Date 8/14/22 Time 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Events after 10:00 p.m. require a variance from City Council) Location (Address) of Event: (If in Lowell Park please specify north or south Lowell park) North Lowell Park and Chestnut Street Plaza Description of Event (please be specific - this information will be used to promote the event on the City of Stillwater website) 2nd Annual Rotary Bicycle Rally - Multiple bike routes, all starting and finishing at the end of the Lift Bridge in Stillwater. Routes include: 10 mile "family" routes, a 25 mile "fun" route, 45 and 70 mile "challenge" routes, and an 75 mile "gravel" route. All rides have St. Croix river crossings and routes in Minnesota and Wisconsin. After the ride, all participants will be able to park their bikes in a secure "corral" and enjoy after ride treats, food, drink, and live entertainment in North Lowell park. This event is for all ages and levels of experience - with something for everyone. Estimated Attendance (participants and spectators): 500 to 1500 Applicant Information (Person/Group Responsible) Sponsoring Organization Name: Stillwater Sunrise Rotary Club Mailing Address: P.O. Box 425 City, State, Zip Code: Stillwater, MN 55082 Primary Contact/Applicant Name: Rick Heidick Phone Number: 651-274-6351 Fax: Cell Phone: 651-274-6351 Email Address: artyhide@gmail.com Website Address: https://sunrotary.org/Page/btv Name of contact person during event: Rick Heidick Cell Phone: 651-274-6351 Alternate contact during event: Kris Bowditch Cell Phone: 612-385-4961 Refer media or citizens inquires to: Rick Heidick Phone: 651-274-6351 Site Plan: A site plan is mandatory for all events. Please provide a map of the site layout. Include any tables, stages, tents, fencing, portable restrooms, vendor booths, trash containers, etc. If event involves a parade, race or walk, please attach a route map highlighting route. Include rest stop stations, crossings, signage and indicate route direction with arrows. Event Features Will any signs/banners be put up No ■ Yes © Number and size: Two large banners - one at the end of the lift hrirdna and nna naar Chactni it Plaza Will there be any inflatables? No F3 Yes M Insurance certificate from rental vendor is required Bands and singers Fees for electricity may Will there be entertainment? No ■ Yes © What type: apply see Instructions Will sound amplification be used? No ■ Yes © Hours and Type: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Ranrdc and cinnarc There be is Will a stage or tent(s) be set up? No • Yes f3 Dimensions: may a stage (if gazebo not used) in North Lowell Park, and there will be Will there be temporary fencing? No F3 Yes ■ How many Fees for electricity may Expected to have 2 Will merchandise/food items be sold.7 No ■ Yes Mapply see Instructions vendors expected: or 3 food trucks, Will food be prepared on site? NO © Yes M Contact Washington County Health Department, 651-430-6655 Will cooking operations be conducted? No 0 Yes M Contact Stillwater Fire Department, 351-4950 Will alcohol be served but not sold? No ■ Yes © See Alcohol Regulations in the Instructions Will alcohol be sold? No • Yes © See Alcohol Regulations in the Instructions Will there be a fireworks display? No M Yes M Permit required, contact Stillwater Fire Department 651-351-4950 Describe power needs and location of power source. There will be three main locations for power needs: 1) At the end of Parking Lot #4 - power for computers used for registration, sound speakers, and refrigeration device. 2) At the north end of Parking Lot #5 and North Lowell Park for up to 2 beer vendors and up to 3 food trucks. 3) At a stage in North Lowell Park (or gazebo) for live entertainment Describe level of advertisement (ie, radio, flyers, ads, tv, press release). Attach sample if available Print ads in TCBC and Silent Sports, multiple Facebook and Instagram posts, Nextdoor postings, calendar postings for Explore Minnesota, and Discover Stillwater, multiple handout flyers, sign boards along city bike trails, hopefully TV exposure City Services (After reviewing the event application, City services may be requried for the event.) Will event use, close or block any of the following: If yes specify location on site map. City Streets or Right-of-way No • Yes M. Start/End Time: 6 AM Date: 8/14/22 City Sidewalks or Trails No ■ Yes © Start/End Time: 7 AM - 2 PM Date: 8/14/22 Public Parking Lots or Spaces No ■ Yes © Start/End Time: 7 AM -4 PM Date: 8/14/22 Fees may apply Will event need barricade(s)? No ■ Yes 0 Number needed: 3 see Instructions Fees may apply Will extra picnic tables be needed? No ■ Yes F:1 Number needed: 10-20 see lnstructions Fees may apply Will portable restrooms be needed? No ❑ Yes KI Number needed: 10 see Instructions Fees may apply Will extra trash receptacles be needed? No ElYes V Number needed: 10 see Instructions Describe trash removal and cleanup plan during and after event: Volunteers will police the entire North Lowell Park area and remove trash and trash bags Will event need traffic control? No ® Yes ❑ Contact Stillwater Police Veportment for assistance, 551-351.4900 Describe crowd control procedure to ensure the safety of participants and spectators: Rotary volunteers will be managing all route starts and finishes and all participant movement along Chestnut Street and North Lowell Park Fees may apply see instructions Will No Parking Signs" be needed? No ❑ Yes ® Number needed: 4 Show locotion(s)on site map Will event need security? No ►A Yes ❑ If event is overnight, security will be required. If using private secruity, list Security Company and Contact Information: N/A Will event need EMS services? No ❑ Yes ® Contact LakeknewEMS, 651-430-4621 Describe plans to provide first aid, if needed: Will have EMS volunteers stationed in the registration area for the entire event and will be on -call for traveling out onto the routes for other emergency needs Describe the emergency action plan if severe weather should arise: The event will be held whether rain or shine. Weather predictions will be monitored closely and any inclement weather anticipated during the event will have estimated risks to participants defined and appropriate management of the course and monitoring of the participants will be done by event directors. List any other pertinent information: The sponsor(s) of this event hereby agrees to save the City, its agents, officials and employees harmless from and against all damages to persons or property, all expenses and other liability that may result from this activity. Depending on the size of and scope of the event a "Certificate of insurance" may be required. If insurance is required, the policy must be kept in force during the event of at least the statutory limits for municipalities covering claims that might be brought against the event that arise out of the events authorized and to name the City as an additional insured on their policy "as their interest may appear." As the sponsor or authorized representative, 1 certify that the information provided is true to the best of my knowledge and agree to pay the permit fee far this event based upon the informati in this oppl on. 1 realize my submittal of this application request constitutes a contract between myself and the City o Sti lwa r andof Lia`bii Signature?of Applicant ar Authorized Agent Date 3IA z. BTV2 - HUB: GENERAL DESIGN BTV2—HUB: South End of North Lowell Park HUB REST STOP REGISTRATION PARKING LOT #4 MAPS HELP TENT BTV2—HUB: North End of North Lowell Park EMS GATEWAY CYCLE WELCOME TO OUR 2nd ANNUAL BRIDGE THE VALLEY -BIKE RALLY We invite you to ride our second annual bike ride sponsored by Stillwater Sunrise Rotary and offering you beautiful views of the St. Croix Valley using our trail systems, roads and beautiful bridges. This will be a scenic ride capturing the beauty of our St. Croix river and valley! With five ride options, this ride is perfect for families, novice bike riders, and experienced riders. All rides are $35 for anyone 19 years of age and over. Kids and teens ages 6 to 18 can ride for $25, and kids under 5 are free. There also is a family category for up to 5 riders for $80. (Fees increase on 7/1/22) All roads and trails are blacktopped, with the exception of our Gravel Challenge ride. Pick just one loop from the progressively more challenging options or combine several to fit your age, ability, and interest on the day. This event is a rally and your start time depends on the length of ride you are doing. For riders who are up for a challenge, see how you stack up against the rest of the riders with integrated, timed sections on the St Croix Gravel Challenge route. All rides start and finish at Chestnut Plaza, immediately west of Stillwater's newly renovated lift bridge. The event Support Hub is located next to the bridge in North Lowell Park . Event information, day -of registration, and a fenced and monitored bike corral will be available. Downtown Stillwater has many attractions and businesses within walking distance of the Support Hub so participants can take in all that Stillwater has to offer. We will also offer food and drink at the end of our ride in North Lowell Park! The 10, 25, 45, 70 and 75 mile routes will be supported with SAG and rest stops with refreshments. All rides will be accessible on a new, innovative Ride with GPS app to help you navigate the routes! Finish your ride in beautiful downtown Stillwater. Meet up with your family and friends and top off your ride day off with food and drink and live entertainment along the majestic St. Croix river. Route Details: 1. Brown's Creek & Bridges Loop (10 miles, 500 ft climbing, 1 rest stops) Check in/Start Time: 9-10 AM RIDE CREEKSIDE, LAKESIDE AND RIVERSIDE WITH SPECTACULAR RIDE CREEKSIDE, LAKESIDE AND RIVERSIDE WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS Broaden your horizons, literally, on a slightly more challenging ride than just the now well known 5-mile "St Croix River Crossing Loop Trail", but the views are worth the extra challenge if you are up to it. Take the Brown's Creek Trail (rail trail) north out of Stillwater alongside our Zephyr Theatre and adjacent to the St Croix River by the City's recently acquired "Lumberjack Landing" property. Then curve west paralleling Brown's Creek ravine up a gentle incline to a bike trail alongside McKusick Lake. Zigzag through a combination of blacktopped trails and minor roads to Pioneer Park, which has a spectacular view over downtown Stillwater and both the historic lift bridge and the new suspension bridge... simultaneously! Descend into town via our support hub, then pick up the "St Croix River Crossing Loop Trail" via the Blue Star Trailhead rest stop in Houlton, and back down a steep hill into downtown Stillwater across the spectacular historic lift bridge. [Option: Do just the 2nd half for an easier 5-mile ride.] 2. Browns Creek & Lake Jane (25 miles, 1000 ft climbing, 3 rest stops) Check in/ Start Time: 8-10 AM Link rail trails, bike trails and Loop Trails A mid -level family and group ride... 50% of which is on off -road blacktopped trails with no severe climbs, possibly suited for young teens and above. Follow the beginning section of the "Brown's Creek and Bridges Loop" routes, then continue along Brown's Creek Trail to Duluth Junction, where this trail T's into the Gateway Trail. Turn south on the Gateway Trail (rail trail) biking under both County Road 12 and Highway 36, then east on a small spur connector trail into rural neighborhoods, Green Acres Tubing Park (rest stop), and alongside Lake Jane. Continue east through pastoral countryside, by Washington County Fairgrounds, and into Oak Park Heights bicycle trail system. Just before descending again to the St Croix River Crossing Loop Trail, you will experience an amazing view from Valley View Park overseeing the new interstate suspension bridge, which you will cross on the dedicated bike and pedestrian trail overlooking the river, on via Houlton's Blue Star Trailhead rest stop, then on to downtown Stillwater via Houlton's Hilltop Trailhead, the steep descent and across the historic lift bridge. 3. Beyond the Loop (45 miles, 1600 ft climbing, 3 rest stops) Check in/Start Time: 8-9 AM LINK RAIL TRAILS, BIKE TRAILS, RURAL MINNESOTA AND WISCONSIN COUNTRYSIDE, PLUS A 2-MILE HILL CLIMB More of a challenge for mid -level road riders. The ride starts out on the "25-mile route", but as that route descends towards the new Hwy 36 bridge, this route heads south on the Minnesota side of the river, then alongside Hwy94 to cross the Hudson bridge, and on to the Hudson riverfront (and rest stop). Heading northeast out of Hudson, prepare yourself for a 2-mile climb up scenic Trout Brook Road along the west boundary of Willow River State Park. Eventually you will reach Houlton and the steep but scenic overlook and descent, crossing the historic lift bridge back into downtown Stillwater. [Option: Make your ride into a 50-mile 1/2 century, and add the new Hwy 36 bridge on one lap of the 5-mile "St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail".] 4. Prescott & River Falls (70 miles, 2960 ft climbing, 3 rest stops) - Check in/Start Time: 7-8 AM TOUR SMALL RIVERTOWNS VIA ROLLING MINNESOTA AND WISCONSIN RURAL COUNTRYSIDE For higher -end self-supporting riders... stretch yourselves to reach the southern -most bridge of our options via Afton and across from Minnesota to Wisconsin into Prescott. Visit the "Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center" with its phenomenal bluff overlook. Then, test your legs on the rolling Wisconsin hills up through River Falls, back alongside the flat trails alongside the St Croix River in Hudson, to prepare you for a 2-mile climb up scenic Trout Brook Road along the west boundary of Willow River State Park, then back to Houlton, and the steep descent into downtown Stillwater across the historic lift bridge. [Option: Can be merged with the Beyond the Loop route to make a 100-mile 'century' ride.] NOTE: Limited support ride... no signage (use Ride with GPS app), and on -call non -medical -emergency sag wagon support only on this route. �:Iwnn� s -i reh ih Vnglor1 uvRly Fimn i�iLL v L'�II 5. St Croix Gravel Challenge (75 miles, 3350 ft climbing, 2 rest stops) - Check in/Start Time: 7-8 AM EXPERIENCE AN EPIC DUAL -STATE SOCIAL TOUR WITH BRAGGING SPURTS! The ultimate ride, for those so inclined... intended for the more avid, experienced and self-supporting riders. This route has steep hills, several gravel sections, plus some timed segments. Head north up the west side of the St Croix National Scenic Riverway, crossing over the bridge into Osceola. NEW THIS YEAR... an exclusive opportunity at "The Acreage", 1 mile north of Osceola where a short gravel loop trail will take you by Horst Rechelbacher's private collection of sculptures and artifacts. The return south, back through Osceola on the Wisconsin side, turns off the main road shortly after downtown Osceola, onto scenic bluff -top roads. There are a couple of 'deep -dive' gravel spurs that take you right down to the river for some seldom seen views of the river, including an old ferry crossing into Marine-On-St.Croix. ALSO NEW THIS YEAR is a Wisconsin -side mid- point water stop at"Standing Cedars" parking lot. The last 7 miles follow the St Croix Bike & Pedestrian Trail Coalition's designated "Beyond the Loop" orange and purple trail, alongside the blufftop entry to Andersen Scout Camp, then the steep but scenic overlook and descent crossing the historic lift bridge into downtown Stillwater. NOTE: Limited support ride... no signage, and on -call non -medical -emergency sag wagon support only on this route. J i11water THE RiFITHPLACE OF MINNESOIA DATE: April 25, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Jason Grode, Parks Superintendent SUBJECT: Bridge the Valley Bike Rally Event Application BACKGROUND Summer Tuesdays, Inc. has made an application for their 2022 special event permit. As with previous years, the reoccurring community event would occur on Tuesday evenings starting in Early July. Seven Tuesday nights are planned between July 5, 2022, through August 9, 2022. This free community event features live music, food and merchandise vendors and a movie in the park. This event is proposed to happen in North Lowell Park. The event organizer has requested the use of North Lowell Park and Parking Lots 4 and 5. The event organizer will be charged for any city services, materials rendered and parking spaces used according to the current fee schedule at the time of the event. ACTION REQUESTED Upon satisfactory review of the application, the Parks and Recreation Commission should pass a motion recommending approval of the Summer Tuesdays 2022 event application Attachments: Event Application Form and Site Plan iilwater THE BIRTHPLACE OF MIMMESOTA EVENTS PERMIT APPLICATION 216 North 4 th Street, Stillwater, MN 55082 Telephone: 651-430-8837 Fax: 651-430-8810 Incomplete applications or applications received after deadline will not be accepted. See Event Instructions for application deadline and fees. Date of Application: 3/29/2022 Office Use Only Date Application Received Type: Event Special Event Event w/ Contract Event Information Title/Name of Event Stillwater Summer Tuesdays DAYS OF EVENTS 1:OOPM 5:OOPM Event Date/Time: Set up: Date Time to Actual Event: Date TUESDAYS: 7/5-8/9/2022 Time 5:OOPM to 11:OOPM Clean up: Date DAYS OF EVENTS Time 10:30PM to 11:30PM (Events after 10:00 p.m. require a variance from City Council) Location (Address) of Event: (If in Lowell Park please specify north or south Lowell park) North Lowell Park Description of Event (please be specific - this information will be used to promote the event on the City of Stillwater website) Summer Tuesdays is a family friendly, FREE community evetn. We have approx. 35-45 vendors, live music and show movies on an inflatable movie screen. Summer Tuesdays is a free, outdoor community event featuring a variety of market vendors, local food, live music and movies perfect for nights out with family and friends. Summer Tuesdays is celebrating 20 years of family fun in downtown Stillwater. Estimated Attendance (participants and spectators): 500-1000 per night. Typically not all at one tiem, but throuc Applicant Information (Person/Group Responsible) Sponsoring Organization Name: Summer Tuesday, Inc Mailing Address: 101 Water Street South City, State, Zip Code: Stillwater, MN 55082 Primary Contact/Applicant Name: Cassie McLemore Phone Number: 651-587-8970 Fax: Cell Phone: 651-587-8970 Email Address: cassiemclemore@gmail.com; stillwatersummertuesdays@gmail.com Website Address: www.summertuesdays.com Name of contact person during event: Cassie McLemore Cell Phone: 651-587-8970 Alternate contact during event: Cory Buettner Cell Phone: 651-295-4725 Refer media or citizens inquires to: Cassie or Cory Phone: Site Plan: A site plan is mandatory for all events. Please provide a map of the site layout. Include any tables, stages, tents, fencing, portable restrooms, vendor booths, trash containers, etc. If event involves a parade, race or walk, please attach a route map highlighting route. Include rest stop stations, crossings, signage and indicate route direction with arrows. Event Features they vary, but no larger than 3'x8' Will any signs/banners be put up No • Yes © Number and size: Will there be any inflatables? No 0 Yes • Insurance certificate from rental vendor is required Live Music & Movies Fees for electricity may Will there be entertainment? No ■ Yes © What type: apply see Instructions 4:30PM-11:30PM (depends on when Will sound amplification be used? No • Yes © Hours and Type: the movie ends) tents - no stage Will a stage or tent(s) be set up? No • Yes 0 Dimensions:10x10vendor Will there be temporary fencing? No 0 Yes • How many 45 approx Fees for electricity may Will merchandise/food items be sold? No • Yes Mvendors expected: apply see Instructions Will food be prepared on site? No • Yes © Contact Washington County Health Department, 651-430-6655 Will cooking operations be conducted? No ■ Yes a Contact Stillwater Fire Department, 351-4950 Will alcohol be served but not sold? No © Yes • See Alcohol Regulations in the Instructions Will alcohol be sold? No © Yes ■ See Alcohol Regulations in the Instructions Will there be a fireworks display? No 0 Yes • Permit required, contact Stillwater Fire Department 651-351-4950 Describe power needs and location of power source. Boxes in Lot 5, Amphitheater, and possibly Lot 4 (really only if flooding) Describe level of advertisement (ie, radio, flyers, ads, tv, press release). Attach sample if available We typicaly do mostly social media advertising. We will occasionally do a postcard, ValuPak and alwasy send out press releasaes to local media outlets. City Services (After reviewing the event application, City services may be requried for the event.) Will event use, close or block any of the following: If yes specify location on site map. City Streets or Right-of-way No 0 Yes ■ Start/End Time: Date: City Sidewalks or Trails No © Yes • Start/End Time: Date: Public Parking Lots or Spaces No • Yes 0 Start/End Time: Midnight-Midnigl• Date: 7/5-8/9/2022 Fees may apply Will event need barricade(s)? No 0Yes ■ Number needed: see Instructions Fees may apply Will extra picnic tables be needed? No 0 Yes ■ Number needed: see lnstructions Fees may apply Will portable restrooms be needed? No 0 Yes ■ Number needed: see Instructions Fees may apply Will extra trash receptacles be needed? No ■ Yes M Number needed: see Instructions Describe trash removal and cleanup plan during and after event: We work with Maroney's Sanitation to provide trash recepticles. We fill them, and store them near the Water Street Inn. Maroney's comes and empties them each Wednesday after Summer Tuesdays. We also have a group of volunteers that assist in piking up any leftover trash in the parking lot and park. Will event need traffic control? No © Yes • Contact Stillwater Police Department for assistance, 651-351-4900 Describe crowd control procedure to ensure the safety of participants and spectators: We have never needed crowd control at Summer Tuesdays. If there was anything needed, we would call the local Stillwater Police. Fees may apply see Instructions Will "No Parking Signs" be needed? No • Yes © Number needed: Show location(s)onsite map Will event need security? No 0 Yes • If event is overnight, security will be required. If using private secruity, list Security Company and Contact Information: We have never needed private security for Summer Tuesdays. Will event need EMS services? No © Yes • Contact Lakeview EMS, 651-430-4621 Describe plans to provide first aid, if needed: We have a basic first aid kit at our information tent. If medical attention is needed we would call local EMS. Describe the emergency action plan if severe weather should arise: We cancel the event if there is a threat of severe weather. We watch the local radar carefully and cancel an event by 2:OOPM on the day of, to avoid setting up and needing to tear down during severe weather. List any other pertinent information: The movie screen is inflatable, but we do not have any inflatables for people to go in. The sponsor(s) of this event hereby agrees to save the City, its agents, officials and employees harmless from and against all damages to persons or property, all expenses and other liability that may result from this activity. Depending on the size of and scope of the event a "Certificate of Insurance" may be required. If insurance is required, the policy must be kept in force during the event of at least the statutory limits for municipalities covering claims that might be brought against the event that arise out of the events authorized and to name the City as an additional insured on their policy "as their interest may appear." As the sponsor or authorized representative, 1 certify that the information pr.. 'ded is e to the best of my knowledge and agree to pay the permit fee for this event based upon the information provided n th'. p 'Fation. 1 realize my submittal of this application request constitutes a contract between myself and the City of Still at- r an a o Lia. lity.' / �I% Signature of Applica lk horized Agent 3/29/2022 Date )11 Lot 10 2022 SUMMER TUESDAYS EVENT MAP Live Music & movie on the am. hitheater I11war THE BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA DATE: April 25, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Jason Grode, Parks Superintendent SUBJECT: CaringBridge World Caring Day Event Application BACKGROUND Attached is the event application for the 2022 CaringBridge World Caring Day event, which was submitted by CaringBridge, a non-profit organization. This new event has been proposed to take place from June 6th through June 12th (with set up on June 5th and clean up on June 13). This inaugural event includes an interactive art/light installation created by CaringBridge to celebrate the inaugural World Caring Day during their 25th anniversary. Installation would open to the public June 6th, with a press event June 7th from 8:30 - 10:00pm. Volunteers would be on -site between 12:00pm and 10:00pm each day to assist people with any questions and instruction on how to interact with the installation. Attendance for the event would be dependent on the natural traffic in the area, with the exception of the June 7th press event, which would have approximately 100 invited people. The event organizer has requested the use of Chestnut Street for their event, but if that is not approved (by MNDOT), then they have requested the use of North Lowell Park as a possible 3rd location option. The event organizer will be charged for any city services or materials used according to the current fee schedule at the time of the event. ACTION REQUESTED Upon satisfactory review of the application, the Parks and Recreation Commission should pass a motion recommending approval of the CaringBridge World Day 2022 event application, if Lowell Park is to be used. Attachments: Event Application Forms and Site Plan. iilwater THE BIRTHPLACE OF MIMMESOTA EVENTS PERMIT APPLICATION 216 4th Street North, Stillwater, MN 55082 Telephone: 651-275-4101 Fax: 651-275-4112 Email: pubwrks@ci.stillwater.mn.us Incomplete applications or applications received after deadline will not be accepted. See Event Instructions for application deadline and fees. Date of Application: 4/15/22 Office Use Only Date Application Received Type: Event Special Event Event w/ Contract Event Information Title/Name of Event CaringBridge World Caring Day Celebration 6/5/22 9:00 am 10:00 pm Event Date/Time: Set up: Date Time to Actual Event: Date 6/6/22 - 6/12/22 Time 27/4 to Clean up: Date 6/13/22 Time 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (Events after 10:00 p.m. require a variance from City Council) Location (Address) of Event: Chestnut Plaza between 95 & Water St (Alt: between Water St & Lift Bridge) (If in Lowell Park please specify north or south Lowell park) Descri ption of Event (please be specific - this information will be used to promote the event on the City of Stillwater website) An interactive art/light installation created by (non-profit) CaringBridge to celebrate the inaugural World Caring Day during their 25th anniversary. Installation would open to the public June 6th, with a press event June 7th from 8:30 - 10:00pm. Volunteers would be on -site between 12:00pm and 10:00pm each day to assist people with any questions and instruction on how to interact with the installation. Attendance reliant on the natural traffic in the area, with the exception of the June 7th press event, which would have approximately 100 invited people (please see attached for visuals and further details) Estimated Attendance (participants and spectators): Attendance reliant on the natural traffic in the area Applicant Information (Person/Group Responsible) Sponsoring Organization Name: CaringBridge (non-profit organization) Mailing Address: 2750 Blue Water Rd, Suite 275 City, State, Zip Code: Eagan, MN 55121 Primary Contact/Applicant Name: Melissa Rothman, Producer for Svedvik Collective (svedvik.com) Phone Number: 612.396.4999 Fax: Cell Phone: 612.396.4999 Email Address: melrothmanproduction@gmail.com Website Address: svedvik.com Name of contact person during event: Melissa Rothman Cell Phone: 612.396.4999 Alternate contact during event: Ian Lawrow Cell Phone: 612.396.5399 Refer media or citizens inquires to: Allison Checco Phone: 612.791.2014 Site Plan: A site plan is mandatory for all events. Please provide a map of the site layout. Include any tables, stages, tents, fencing, portable restrooms, vendor booths, trash containers, etc. If event involves a parade, race or walk, please attach a route map highlighting route. Include rest stop stations, crossings, signage and indicate route direction with arrows. Event Features Will any signs/banners be put up No ■ Yes © Number and size: (3) 5' x 7' banners Will there be any inflatables? No 0 Yes ■ Insurance certificate from rental vendor is required Fees for electricity may Will there be entertainment? No 10 Yes ■ What type: apply see Instructions Will sound amplification be used? No ■ Yes © Hours and Type: 8:30pm - 10:00pm on June 7th - basic PA cvctam fnr cnaakar(c) 10' 10' Will a stage or tent(s) be set up? No • Yes f3 Dimensions: (2) x pop up tents Will there be temporary fencing? No 0 Yes ■ How many Fees for electricity may Will merchandise/food items be sold? No 0 Yes ■ vendors expected: apply see Instructions Will food be prepared on site? No 0 Yes ■ Contact Washington County Health Department, 651-430-6655 Will cooking operations be conducted? No 0 Yes ■ Contact Stillwater Fire Department, 351-4950 Will alcohol be served but not sold? No © Yes ■ See Alcohol Regulations in the Instructions Will alcohol be sold? No © Yes ■ See Alcohol Regulations in the Instructions Will there be a fireworks display? No 0 Yes • Permit required, contact Stillwater Fire Department 651-351-4950 Describe power needs and location of power source. Is there a power source available to us? We are still determining our power draw, and would prefer to avoid having the noise pollution of a generator. Open to options. Describe level of advertisement (ie, radio, flyers, ads, tv, press release). Attach sample if available Paid social, community outreach, website City Services (After reviewing the event application, City services may be requried for the event.) Will event use, close or block any of the following: If yes specify location on site map. City Streets or Right-of-way No 0 Yes ■ Start/End Time: Date: City Sidewalks or Trails No © Yes ■ Start/End Time: Date: Public Parking Lots or Spaces No 0 Yes ■ Start/End Time: Date: Fees may apply Will event need barricade(s)? No 3 Yes • Number needed: see Instructions Fees may apply Will extra picnic tables be needed? No 0 Yes ■ Number needed: see Instructions Fees may apply Will portable restrooms be needed? No 0 Yes ■ Number needed: see Instructions Fees may apply Will extra trash receptacles be needed? No M Yes ■ Number needed: see Instructions Describe trash removal and cleanup plan during and after event: Will event need traffic control? No © Yes • Contact Stillwater Police Department for assistance, 651-351-4900 Describe crowd control procedure to ensure the safety of participants and spectators: Fees may apply see Instructions Will "No Parking Signs" be needed? No M Yes ■ Number needed: Show location(s)onsite map Will event need security? No ■ Yes a If event is overnight, security will be required. If using private secruity, list Security Company and Contact Information: Contract with private security service is under review. Would have 24/7 while installation is up. Will event need EMS services? No 13 Yes • Contact Lakeview EMS, 651-430-4621 Describe plans to provide first aid, if needed: Volunteer staff could have first aid kit and would call 911 if further aid is needed Describe the emergency action plan if severe weather should arise: The structure would be certified by a structural engineer, but If winds are forecasted to be above recommended limit, we would dismantle. List any other pertinent information: Please see attached The sponsor(s) of this event hereby agrees to save the City, its agents, officials and employees harmless from and against all damages to persons or property, all expenses and other liability that may result from this activity. Depending on the size of and scope of the event a "Certificate of Insurance" may be required. If insurance is required, the policy must be kept in force during the event of at least the statutory limits for municipalities covering claims that might be brought against the event that arise out of the events authorized and to name the City as an additional insured on their policy "as their interest may appear." As the sponsor or authorized representative, 1 certify that the information provided is true to the best of my knowledge and agree to pay the permit fee for this event based upon the information provided in this application. 1 realize my submittal of this application request constitutes a contract between myself and the City of Stillwater and is a release of Liability. 4/15/22 Signature of Applicant or Authorized Agent Date Chestnut St E between St Croix Trail (95} & Bike path der\Street In • n xlt : s4..C. ' f774) Is° '"Area 1: Chestnut between 95 & Water St 3,st3,110c , . Area 2: Chestnut between Water & Bike path Area A3: Lowell Pa 16 18 Tlhe Pale Bar studlq-+=;� ',. '` , El Charlie's Iri •qu- 1. ion North •-" Gil shop ,GB _HOUSE - • ,, 001, es,..--- Leo's Grill & Malt:Shap, ti.. Irv5 ' American • Sf a u, 6 r4� .' r�11 ,ri'4Main, _ - ,.; .'. "')- e ic; Great--. 'F ein. . illwater'Lights -Temporarily closed 201 artner Studios , { 0 tP Corporate Offices'.' . �.vi ti ;. C harli e's. Restau mnt Er1d Tattoo o , L ` in Stillwater, MN er Minnesota �`�� Q,rzti7 Bride ' J Tattoo shop T �C-mff etSF po �— . Brick urboit CaringBridge 25th Anniversary Celebration World Caring Day Installation details for permitting application 4.15.22 SVE DVIK COLLECTIVE CARINGBRIDGE 25TH ANNIVERSARY WORLD CARING DAY Kick off the inaugural World Caring Day, and celebrate 25 years of people bringing light into others' lives by creating a unique light art installation where one small light represents each person that has been helped by CaringBridge in the past 25 years. It's not just honoring people, it's beautiful. Create an immersive experience that is visually impactful, daytime & nighttime, with thousands of points of light that would represent the number of people CaringBridge has touched SVEDVIK COLLECTIVE 2022 2 Intersecting Infinity Paths Three open-air pathways come together creating a community space lined with thousands of points of light for people to discover and immerse themselves in. Each triangle section is clear (plexi or acrylic). The outer facing wall would be translucent & could also be a large space for messaging/branding. The two inner walls would have etched, mirrored acrylic mounted to them to create the `starlight' effect. Lights would be placed inside each triangle section to illuminate all sides. Current size of each section:14' long by 8' tall + TBD peak height Creative options: O The tops of each triangle section angled up for additional height & shape O Dimensional elements could hang on the inside of the triangle sections to create shadow shapes when lit. O Lights could have movement O One of the pathways could be longer and dead-end to create a partial infinity room VIDEO LINK VIDEO LINK SVEDVIK COLLECTIVE 2022 Intersecting Infinity Paths mock-up to scale Added peaks on the top of the sections Overhead view Looking in SVEDVIK COLLECTIVE 2022 Outer panel 4 Installation & Event Details O Installation Sunday June 5th (9am - 10pm) O Open to the public 24/7 starting June 6th O Press Event June 7th from 8:30pm-10:OOpm O 100 invited guests/press, to celebrate on the inaugural World Caring Day O 10 x 10 tent with basic PA system for speakers to use • CaringBridge volunteers would staff each day between 10am and 10pm to answer questions and/or explain how to interact with the installation O (1 or 2)10 x 10 tent for volunteer's sun/rain protection • Teardown/clean-up Monday June 13 (9am - 6pm) O (Private) Security on site 24/7 O Structure would follow ADA Compliance SVEDVIK COLLECTIVE 2022 Thank you SK SVEDVIK COLLECTIVE tillwa ter THE BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA DATE: April 21, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Shawn Sanders, Director of Public Works SUBJECT: Skateboard Park Introduction BACKGROUND At the April 19 Council meeting, Missy Hause, local skateboard legend, presented the need of a new skateboard park facility in the City. The current skateboard park located south of the dome at the St. Croix Recreation Center, is 20+ years old, and with possibility of a curling facility being added to the site, the current skate board park would go away. Ms Hause's presentation included some criteria for locations and a general idea for size of park for our City. Council did not commit to a skateboard park at his time they did give direction to staff to look at possible locations for a new skateboard park and to report back Park and Recreation Commission. Ms. Hause stated she would be able to provide input on locations and assist the city if we decide to move forward with a skateboard park. Further discussion by the Council was to look at another option for skateboarders other than the downtown area. Council suggested looking at the Northland Park hockey rink and paving the rink area also bringing some skateboard equipment. ACTION REQUIRED There is no action required at this time, over the next few weeks staff will begin looking at possible skateboard locations and report back to the Commission with locations and discussions. We will also report back to give an update on costs for paving the Northland Park Hockey rink. Stillwater Skatepark Project 10,000-15,000 sq ft skatepark Stillwater, MN Population: 20,131 A little bit about myself Born and raised in Stillwater, Minnesota Graduated from Stillwater Area High School in 2016 I played basketball growing up but when I found skateboarding, I fell in love! There were no boundaries, no limits, no rules, coaches or practice. I was always independent and skateboarding matched my level of independence. It was mine to learn, too fail, and to persevere. • Competed professionally in skateboarding for the past 9 years • Sponsored by Nike skateboarding since 2018 • Was on the first ever USA skateboarding team in 2019 • Currently serving on the board of directors for USA skateboarding • Serve in the Athletes World Skate commission group, which works directly with helping the national governing body for the Olympic sport of skateboarding • Serve on the Skatepark Project grants committee (started by Tony Hawk), helping to distribute grants to underdeveloped areas and allocate funding to help build skateparks Skateboarding has been a big part of my life since I was 10 years old. I have traveled the world, spoken on panels, competed in Olympic qualifiers, walked in New York Fashion week, and been featured in Nike videos and commercials. However beyond that, skateboarding has taught me self discipline and goal setting. It's given me a sense of confidence and built me a community all over the world consisting of people of all ages, ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. Why a skatepark? • Skateboarding is one of the fastest growing sports in the world and is not slowing down any time soon. It has officially been named a permanent Olympic sport as of December 2021. • Valuable for youth and community who don't fit in with traditional sports, or don't have the means to be a part of them. It goes beyond skateboarding. It allows all ages, genders, and races to come together for one common goal. Skateboarding is free and has no limits, encouraging creativity and endless possibilities. • Any healthy activity that a young person is passionate about should be encouraged and supported. Skateparks are viewed as a home away from home for many skaters. Giving them confidence and a sense of belonging. "if your city doesn't have a skatepark, your city is a skatepark" - Safety and Liability A large portion of injuries, (i.e., accidents requiring medical attention), happen to skateboarders with less than a week of skating experience. Skateboarding injuries requiring hospital visits happen to about 2% of participants per year, while injuries strike 22.4% of basketball players, 11.6% of baseball players, and 6.2% of soccer players (according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission). Relative to these other sports, skateboarding is safe. • Public outdoor unsupervised skateparks are a norm in America - Covered under state law - Insurance under state umbrella HOW SAFE IS SKATEBOARDING? Know yyperf l lmYtx. Most upper limb injuries occur in the wrists Most lower limb injuries occur.n the ankles ■I1 Noo knsu Sources: w na Maaeyol � OrNoy uy✓ons Surner l4Rostso Comma s ontlwMwlCm Contr., a�cfl uoies Wearing a helmet •s the best way to prevent a serious injury X X XXX XX of skateboarding related injuries happen to people with less than one week of experience Basketball Injuries - average 224 per 1,000 participants. - Skating Skating injuries average - 20 per 1,000 participants. • Location is Very Important Visible Location Is Critical The best location for the skatepark is: • One that is accessible, especially to the youth who won't yet be able to drive. • Around other public activity and not hidden away in some corner of a park or on the outskirts of town. There are few qualities as important for the success of the new skatepark as its location. Where it is located will determine how easy it is to get too, how many people will interact with it, how busy it will be, and what kind of things people might do when they are there. When a skatepark is put in a bad location, it can lead to poor behavior at the facility and reflect poorly on local skaters (even if they aren't responsible for problems). Once a site is chosen there needs to be strong reasoning to back up the chosen location of the skatepark. A lot of delays are due to disagreements on location. �(gny Hawk Foundation Police Study 2009 J To examine the impact of public skateparks from the local law -enforcement perspective, the Tony Hawk Foundation surveyed law -enforcement officers in communities where THE has contributed to the construction of a public skatepark. Each municipality included in this survey has had its skatepark open at least one year. In total, 102 officers in 37 states, from Oregon to New Hampshire, were interviewed. • 90% (92) of the officers surveyed believed the skatepark is an asset to the community. A common response from officers throughout the country was that providing kids somewhere to go and be active is always a positive thing. One officer in Maine stated, "The skaters are very respectful, and the skatepark has cut down on the youth crime, especially vandalism and kids skating on the sidewalks. The park gives the kids something to do, especially the `at - risk' youth." Some officers (15) found centralizing the local youth in one area beneficial for their department as well as the local parents. "The skatepark is great," stated an officer from Wisconsin. "With the kids congregated in one spot, we can keep a better eye on them." • Many officers reported the skatepark's location as a factor in whether or not they considered it a success. Some attributed their park's success too highly visible locations, and several agree placing their skateparks next to other recreational activities has kept the park more visible and accessible. Design Important design considerations • A balance of both disciplines, Street and Park. Meaning there should be a bowl and a street section. This creates a good balance between both types of skaters. • Good flow so that when the skatepark is busy it is easy for everyone to skate without getting in each others way. • If the park location is decided to be on the riverfront, I think it's important to incorporate some of Stillwater's key landmarks into skate -able features. Design process • Get the local skaters involved via design meetups, allow them to give sketches and ideas etc. • I am willing to help with the design team and make sure Stillwater has the best park for everyone. Design Place Holder Riverwalk Skatepark Jamestown, NY Jamestown, NY 14,000 Sq Ft Medina, NY 9,000 Sq Ft Construction Must have experienced skatepark construction firm build skatepark. A local contractor may provide the lowest bid and think they can build it, however in actuality it takes years of experience to build concrete transitions at such extreme curves and angles. Reasons why construction is critical: • A well built skate park will be more successful in the long run. • Skaters will be able to feel poor construction while skating and will be discouraged from using the park. • Poor construction could also lead to more injuries. *No one should be building a skatepark for the first time on the communities dime. My Top 3 recommendations for Skatepark designers/builders are: 1. Grindline (Love their designs, and they are an affordable option. They build a lot of skateparks in Oregon/Washington area). 2. Evergreen Skateparks (Newer company but is good at incorporating flow and nature of skating into their parks). 3. CA ramp works (The most expensive of the 3. The official builders of the Olympic Skateparks). Cost ++l* • Recommended size is 10,000 square feet for every 25,000 residents. The skatepark should not be less than 6,000 square feet. The average price to design and build a skatepark ranges from $40-$60 per square foot. Most parks cost around $50 per square foot. 10.000 x $50 = $500,000 • The maintenance each year should be limited to the cost of trash collection and occasional cleaning. Roughly $2,000 a year. How are we going to make it happen? The city/parks & recreations department are not alone. With the help of myself and the community we will be able to accomplish this goal! • Donations - Have clear places to donate online, by phone or email. • Set up a legal account to accept funds/donations exclusively for the Stillwater skatepark project. • Community engagement - Introduce project to get people excited - Start a Facebook page and/or Instagram to stay in touch and keep the community updated • Grant planning/writing Fundraising Models and Strategies I • Applying for grants (Federal, local, and regional) - Does the city have a grants committee? - Minnesota Amateur sports commission does have a skatepark grant program. • IN -KIND Donations - Items donated to the project that someone else would be willing to donate cash for. - Construction IN -KIND donations material lists (concrete, rebar, equipment rental, fill dirt, grading) removes costs and saves money from overall project cost. • Connect with long standing local businesses -Local doctors, dentists, hospitals. - Cub foods, Stillwater motors, Andersen windows, Lakeview. - Sell ad space on skatepark sign, incorporate logos into skatepark designs. • Get the media involved to promote engagement and donations • Enlist the help of major organizations with consulting and grant opportunities - City of skate and The Skatepark Project (better known as the Tony Hawk Foundation) will be able to steer us in the right direction. I have already talked to both organizations about this project and have great relationships. They will be there for us! Short Term Goals • Build a Core Group to help work toward these goals. • Establish regular meetings to keep the community involved and let them know we are here for them. We hear you, we see you, we are listening. • Connect with a Skatepark Design/Construction Firm (continue refining your plan, begin design process). • Make a fundraising plan. • The average skatepark takes about 3 years from start to finish. In the meantime can we provide anywhere for locals to skate that is not downtown by the bridge, for example, old hockey rinks, unused tennis courts? Somewhere that obstacles can be set up temporality. This will solve a lot of the issues between the City and the skaters. Long Term Gels • Get the community a professionally built public skatepark. One that is accessible in location and designed for all ages, genders, and abilities • Encourage patience and positivity as this could take time to do properly! This will be US! l In Conclusion • Skateboarding is the most universal sport, it does not discriminate, it does not hate. It goes beyond learning tricks themselves, there is so much it teaches us. I can't advocate enough how sincerely unique it is for every individual. • If done right I believe this will be one of the most used public areas. The city of Stillwater will not regret providing something so special to the community. • When I was growing up I wish there would have been a decent skatepark in Stillwater, I would have been there almost everyday. I believe this is true for most of the local skaters. By doing this the city will be elevating and encouraging the next generation in such a positive way! Additional Resources Websites pu blicskateparkgu ide. ora skatepark.org https://www.mnsports.orgiskate-park-grant/ http://www.cityofskate.org/skateparks Links to informative important articles THE Police Study, full article https://publicskateparkguide.org/advocacy/thf-police-study/ Common issues and answers httr s://publicskateparkguide.org/advocacylcommon-issues-and-answers/ Safety and Liability https://publicskateparkguide.org/advocacy/safety-and-liability/ The Skateboarding "Problem" https://pub/ icskateparkg aide. org/vision/the-skateboard i ng-problem/ Troublemaker to Community Catalyst https://publicskatevarkau ide.org/vision/trou blemaker-to-community-catalyst) Skateboarding FAQ https://publ icskateparkg u ide.org/get-started/worki ng-with-city-staff/city-council-and- parks/ My Contact Info I am here to help, please reach out! Happy to be involved. Phone: (651)-285-5577 Email: hausenicole@gmail.com Website: nicolehause.com I11war THE BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA DATE: April 25, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Jason Grode, Parks Superintendent SUBJECT: Friends of Lily Lake Presentation BACKGROUND Attached is the strategic vision report from the Friends of Lily Lake (FLL). Representatives from the FLL organization will be present at the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting to present their findings and recommendations and answer any questions that the Commission may have. The Lily Lake Association was formed in 2013, primarily as a more formal advocacy group for weed and algae reduction, prompting the installation of several phosphorus reduction practices. In 2021, after the water quality controls were well underway, and in order to encourage broader involvement and a wider focus, the Lily Lake Association was renamed to the "Friends of Lily Lake." At the February 2, 2021 City Council meeting, the City of Stillwater City Council endorsed the FLL to continue to move forward with the process of formulating a proposal of their vision for the future use of Lily Lake and the surrounding land. The Council also directed the group to work with the Parks and Recreation Commission. ACTION REQUESTED The Parks and Recreation Commission should share their comments and feedback on the Friends of Lily Lake presentation and strategic plan. If the Commission would like to make a recommendation to the City Council, a motion can be made to do so. Attachments: Friends of Lily Lake Strategic Visioning Report tiFrhieflds 1 of Lily Lake STRATEGIC VISIONING PRELIMINARY FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS [Draft: 25th April 2022] Lily Lake... a recreational gem at the heart of residential Stillwater 'Friends of Lily Lake 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY What could Lily Lake and its adjoining park best become to serve its immediate neighborhoods as well as all Stillwater area citizens? That's what the Friends of Lily Lake (FLL), with the help of many community participants, have been trying to determine over the past year. As water quality issues seem to be reasonably under control, and the State of MN announced it is removing Lily Lake from its Impaired Waters List, FLL is proceeding further in their mission: "To preserve and enhance the quality and enjoyment of Lily Lake and its surrounding land, including the park and woodlands, for all FLL members, area residents, and the general public... through stewardship, communication, education, lobbying, community socialization, and promoting effective volunteerism." Based on substantial community input, we envision enhancing the Lily Lake area by restoring it to a hub and heart of its surrounding neighborhoods, as well as the whole city itself. The updated area could feel more like a `cabin' or a backyard'... definitely a destination for playing, learning, and relaxing in a carefully balanced natural environment within an urban setting... a more significant `place' within our city. This we believe could be achieved by implementing some, if not eventually all, of the ideas generated by this initiative, most of which are strongly in alignment with the City's Strategic Plan. Background: In 1995 a small neighborhood group approached the City for possible water quality improvements, which were begun. The Lily Lake Association was formed in 2013, primarily as a more formal advocacy group for weed and algae reduction, prompting the installation of several phosphorus reduction practices. After the water quality controls were well underway, and in order to encourage broader involvement and a wider focus, in 2021 Lily Lake Association was renamed "Friends of Lily Lake"... envisioning the lake, its adjacent park and woodlands becoming much more of a destination and `place' for surrounding neighborhoods and all local residents... just like it was in years past. Highest and Best Use for the Lake, its Park and Surrounding Woodlands: Lily Lake Park occupies a very unique and valuable setting within the city as an urban lake, with a park and adjoining woodlands with diverse native wildlife. Current, popular uses, such as ballfields, pickleball courts and the ice arena that are enjoyed by many, do not enhance, or even acknowledge, the natural quality of Lily Lake and its surroundings. The ice arena in particular is inward -facing, is turning a blind -eye to its surroundings, and hence could possibly be relocated almost anywhere without detriment. Could this park be enhanced or expanded to promote the serene charm of the area? What could be done to explore greater potential for the area and, if necessary, suggest improvements? Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 1-1 of 3 Strategic Visioning: In January 2020 the FLL Board voted to conduct a community Strategic Visioning initiative, using a "Convergent Facilitation" process, led by the volunteer efforts of Barb Bickford of Bickford Collaboration. This was endorsed by the City Council at their 2nd February 2021 meeting, with Ryan Collins (Ward 1 Councilmember) closely following, and often participating in, the process. During the summer and fall of 2021, FLL engaged the community via surveys and face-to-face driveway gatherings to gather concerns, which are listed in the report's Appendices, and are summarized in the Guiding Principles (incorporated within this report). In answering the question "What do you like, or would like, to do at Lily Lake and its surroundings?", the top three answers were walkability, use of watercraft and enjoyment of nature. ill 1lupUSF orrward Ccinavctirr4 vrit r 5takefroiders - J#J1i Tin prim 441PL'h79aG- 11Ps hen a4c+ri — Prr an craw ern Se iGmber Gagherfrhfr Criteria 4111:01 0 2 n:katio 411:01 riNvii15 I it) r CIO .. �'� Nn 741 �0.'rk'•5i } 1: re Atir40{.5 ririinrvr�ran buFµ re MT cirri r crearing Elrailutting Crsa rirPg a prop(A*rx prvJalosa tr final proposal - Farm jusw 8f iriMflFG_4WJY — CM■flr simur rrxvmae'hi! free SY•+k'pew.. 1...1.1 fame ti - peinksurii who lIppr pm I. R 5G4ri5 FrrT M1 •M F+4Okay �Lrl� r}ur yl — COMV ' ialr POPM, I CY_•ix rigti eiiT ( - Wit rm.! INTVAL !I 1a1 rha Al&rlek N n!rr FLL's Convergent Facilitation Process (above): Started in 2020, and extended into 2022 FLL hosted visioning meetings in November to generate ideas and suggestions that would meet the Guiding Principles. Since November, FLL has consolidated those ideas into a set of proposals to pass on to the City to review and hopefully act upon. Some of the proposals include inexpensive initiatives, while others will need careful planning, funding, design and construction. Preliminary Findings and Recommendations: The community's needs and preferences about Lily lake, as we understand them now, are expressed in the report's enclosed Guiding Principles. These are worded in a way that we hope everyone can support and build upon; and we are open to revising them as more people participate in the vision. FLL recommends that the City adopt the Guiding Principles to aid in the initial implementations, as well as for future actions at or near Lily Lake. FLL proposes the following initiatives be reviewed and accepted by the City, in support of the community -generated vision. (A more complete list is included in the report's Appendices): • Short-term - Simple Initiatives: o Designate one-way vehicular traffic around the park, and striped bike lanes o Provide bike racks in the park o Remove invasive trees and plants o Create a pedestrian wayside rest along Greeley Street o Repurpose beach for canoe/kayak/paddle board use o Expand existing snow clearing for skating, skiing and walking in the park and lake o Encourage group events and activities in the park. o Communicate about the activities and assets of the park and lake. o Continue the County's "safe swimming" education programs Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 1-2 of 3 o Invite Friends of Lily Lake to relevant Park and Recreation Commission meetings o Reserve and plan for the central `hub' space near the former beach o Study the intensity of use and remaining useful life of facilities and amenities in the park o Improve wheelchair accessibility to, and use of, the picnic areas and playground o Provide toilets for all seasons at the park o Provide trash and recycling cans throughout the park o Provide electricity for food vendors o Invite the public to adopt and care for gardens and natural areas • Medium -term - Moderate Initiatives: o Develop a comprehensive phased site plan for improving the park o Expand native and pollinator plantings in the park o Provide educational structures in the park, for nature, history, water activities, etc. o Add shoreline walkway from the existing fishing pier past the beach o Extend walkway to NW extent of City property, adding new observation deck/fishing pier o Study and improve sensory appeal of the park for people of varying abilities o Form a noise -deflecting berm and plantings between the playground and Greeley Street o Improve the safety of pedestrian crossings to the park along Greeley Street o Support neighborhoods and cultural groups in providing activities in the park o Provide public transportation to the park o Implement a plan to continually remove buckthorn and invasive plants from the park o Install walking paths with benches to promote walking in the park • Long-term - Larger Initiatives: o Study replacement of ice arena with youth and elderly recreation center o Negotiate for pedestrian access from apartments, Highlands and Forest Hills o Create an outdoor education area including an open-air semicircle of seating o Create a central lakeside hub with a low platform/stage and with seating facing the lake o Construct a multi -use, open -sided, roofed area over part of the main parking lot. Alignment with the City's Strategic Plan: We believe that many of the recommendations contained in this visioning initiative will enhance the city's ability to follow its own Strategic Plan. The FLL's recommendations address and are in alignment with at least 15 of the 39 bullet -points in the city's current Mission Statement, Core Values, and Strategic Plan. Closing / Next Steps: The FLL requests that the City consider the findings of this report, which align and integrate well with the City's strategic plan. A phased implementation plan to carry out many, if not eventually all, of the community -generated ideas, would ease the fiscal impact and allow for partnerships to emerge with individual volunteers and community organizations. Initially, however, rather than overwhelm the City and ask for sign off on our entire report's recommendations, we think it best to start by focusing on getting approval for the first short-term recommendationjs of the plan for easier implementation... ... and the Friends of Lily Lake are here to help! (If you have received this Executive Summary as a stand-alone document, be aware that a full, more detailed "Strategic Visioning Report" with Appendices is available upon request from lilylake. webmaster@gmail. com) Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 1-3 of 3 2. Table of Contents Cover 1. Executive Summary 2. Table of Contents 3. Context - History of Lily Lake, the Park and the Woodlands History of the Friends of Lily Lake (formerly Lily Lake Association) - Lakeshore Property Ownership 4. Draft Guiding Principles [Criteria] 5. Visioning Narrative - Balancing Natural Environment and Ambience within Urban Context - Within the Park Complex Connecting to the Community 6. Alignment with City's 2020-25 Strategic Plan 7. Recommendations Preliminary Findings and Recommendations - Near -Term: Simple Initiatives - Medium -Term: Moderate Initiatives - Long -Term: Bigger Initiatives 8. Closing Statement 9. Acknowledgements Appendix: Al. Public Input A2a. Ideas (by topic) A2b. Ideas (by timing) A3. Photographs A4. Maps A5. FLL Phased Vision Concept Site Plans (slides) Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 2-1 of 1 3. Context History of Lily Lake, the Park and the Woodlands Lily Lake, in Stillwater, MN, is a 44 acre body of water named because of the abundance of white water lilies. Its charm, with park and woodlands adjacent and its accessibility, within the city limits of Stillwater, make it a gem worth cherishing. The area's original inhabitants, the Objibwe hunted, fished and searched for an area where prophecy urged them to "move west (along the Great Lakes) to the land where food grows on the water." Archeologists have documented activity of Native Americans between 9,000-12,000 years ago. Historically, the area was important because of the waterways for trade and food production. (Brent Peterson's "History of Washington County) The park was established in 1948 under the leadership of George Kunz and named the Veteran's Beach and Beach House. Prior to that, the local swimming beach was in the park on the east side of the St Croix River. The more recent 11-acre park and recreational complex (ice arena) was located on land purchased in three segments in 1922, 1951, and the late 1960s, and was completed in 1971. People from St. Paul would ride a train to the lake which was known for its clarity and depth. The ice was so clear, in fact, that it was once 'harvested' by the St Croix Ice Company from the lake in winter, and shipped locally for food storage in warehouses, stores, and restaurants year-round. Rumors suggest that one of their large cutting machines sank into the lake, but evidence of the operation has been found recently in a wooded area near the fishing pier. Also famous in the history of the Lily Lake area is the horse named Dan Patch who trained on a track on the western side of the lake above the woodlands. Historic aerial photos clearly show evidence of this track. Several of the streets are named as reminders of the horse track training grounds. The large 'Connor House' (east of the lake) was built around 1910. Local cavalry used to camp for training on the meadows adjacent to this house, that extended down to the Lakeshore on this east side. The City, with the aid of the Historic Preservation Commission, commissioned a "History of Development" report about 15 years ago, to determine how surrounding developments might have affected the lake. (E.g. Mud from the lake bottom was dredged up to build the houses on Lake Drive on the north-west shore.) The south end of the lake used to be a shallow portion of the lake that was a fish spawning place, which was filled to accommodate the park and ball fields. Storm -water pipelines were also installed from the pond east of Lily Lake Elementary School, and also from the Middle School playing fields. Current Conditions The park boasts of busy pickleball courts, active basketball matches, a small children's playground, raucous baseball games, and quiet fishing. Two small picnic shelters offer visitors a chance to gather with friends or families. Winter has become more active as skaters, skiers, snowshoers, and anglers enjoy the opportunity afforded to them by the frozen lake. Lily Lake is a great fishing lake with easy access right in Stillwater. The lake was 'de -motorized', except for electric motors, in 1980 under Ordinance No. 470 (updated on 1st Feb 2000 by City Code 48-3). Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish including black bullhead, black crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead, green sunfish, hybrid sunfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, pumpkinseed, sauger, walleye, yellow perch, bowfin (dogfish), white sucker and golden shiner. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 3-1 of 3 History of the Friends of Lily Lake (formerly Lily Lake Association) In 1995 Linda Hargroder and Ed Cain spearheaded a Lily Lake Homeowners Group to request the city to remove weeds and algae. Early in 1996 Bill Ferke, Del Peterson and Gary Warren, further brought the demise of the lake water quality to the forefront of the City's attention. Later Bill Fierke's "Save Lily Lake Now" 1998 booklet presentation, included a diagram showing a depth decrease in the lake of 12 feet due to silt build-up. The current organization was re-formed in 2013 as the Lily Lake Lake Association, again by Del Peterson and Gary Warren, primarily to further investigate the cause of excessive aquatic plant growth and to permanently reduce its sources and negative effects on the lake. In 2021 the organization was renamed the "Friends of Lily Lake" to make it feel more inclusive and accessible to non Lakeshore owners; especially those who have fond memories on or around Lily Lake, plus those who live in its surrounding neighborhoods and would like to participate in its care and enjoyment, for themselves and many generations to come. With the assistance of the Middle St Croix Watershed Management Organization and the City, the phosphorus reduction studies and remedies are now somewhat under control, and have succeeded in getting Lily Lake removed from the State of Minnesota's "Impaired Waters List." Hence the organization is now moving on to envisage bringing back Lily Lake's former 'fame' as the heart of the neighborhood... while also incorporating its adjacent park and woodlands to become much more of a destination and 'place' for surrounding neighborhoods and all local residents... just like it was in years past. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 3-2 of 3 Lakeshore Property Ownership The following 38 parcels abut Lily Lake's shoreline: • 5 x City of Stillwater (1 Lily Lake Park & 2 adjacent properties on woodlands and Greeley St, 2 street rights of way dead -ends, Hemlock St, Lake St W) • 1 x Highlands of Stillwater Homeowners Association (1 Outlot, 11 adjacent Driving Park Rd residential property owner members) • 32 x Individual Residential Properties (4 Pine Tree Tr, 7 Lake Drive, 1 Brick St, 2 Hemlock St, 1 Pine St, 2 Grove St, 5 Willard St, 2 Owens St, 1 Abbott St, 7 Greeley) Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 3-3 of 3 Friends of Lily Lake Guiding Principles (3/6/2022) The community would like future plans for Lily Lake, its park and near neighborhoods to take into considerafion the following Guiding Principles: A. Natural environment 1. Achieve compliance with the Clean Water Act. 2. Provide and maintain water quality infrastructure in the Lily Lake Watershed, including stormwater management and rain gardens. 3. Enhance and maintain native ecosystems in and near Lily Lake and Brick Pond. 4. Remove invasive species that are a detriment to fish, birds and native wildlife and plants. 5. Support pollinator species. 6. Create opportunities to observe, learn about and appreciate nature. B. Community enjoyment 1. Create an appearance in the park that is natural, pleasant and inviting to the whole community. 2. Provide a visual focal point between the park and the water. 3. Provide spaces for families and the community to gather for events. 4. Minimize noise from Greeley St and maintain the quiet, peaceful nature of the park and lake. 5. Create a place that appeals to all five senses (touch, sight, hearing, smell, and taste) and to people with diverse abilities. 6. Provide opportunities for people to improve their physical and mental health. 7. Enhance communications and understanding about Lily Lake, Brick Pond, the park, nature, activities and events. 8. Share the history of Lily Lake, Brick Pond and nearby neighborhoods. 9. Maintain a balance between urban and natural uses of the park. C. Community responsibility 1. Foster a sense of shared public responsibility for caring for Lily Lake, Brick Pond, the park and other adjacent public land and neighborhoods. 2. Make it easy and obvious for people to manage their wastes at the park. 3. Maintain structures, plantings and other resources in the park. 4. Consider the long term impacts of short term decisions on the lake and neighborhood. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 4-1 of 2 5. Help people understand how local water quality infrastructure, stormwater management, regulatory compliance and sustainable yard care and other practices will improve water quality in Lily Lake and Brick Pond. D. Access and safety 1. Enhance access to Lily Lake and the park for nearby residents, including those in the Highland neighborhood and east of Brick Pond and others wishing to enjoy these resources. 2. Improve safety for people who cross and walk or bike along Greeley Street near the park. 3. Support public safety in the park. 4. Provide easy access from City -designated biking routes to the park. 5. Support the City of Stillwater's strategic plan for walkability and rideability. E. Activities at or near the park 1. Enable and support activities for all seasons at the lake and park. 2. Create and enhance opportunities for public ice skating at the park. 3. Develop walking opportunities in the park and around lake neighborhoods, while preserving and respecting private property rights. 4. Provide safe ways for people using boats and other watercraft to enter and exit the lake. 5. Support fishing at the lake for the entire community. 6. Provide educational opportunities at the park. 7. Facilitate the rental of watercraft and other recreational equipment at the park. 8. Explore creative possibilities to provide access to safe swimming in Stillwater. 9. Propose alternate uses for the beach area that do not eliminate the possibility of swimming in the future. F. Amenities and structures at the park 1. Provide basic amenities in the park for a wide range of ages and abilities (e.g., drinking water, restrooms, shelter, food, beverages, play and access to information). 2. Assess the current use of the existing land and facilities at the park. 3. Provide more places for people to sit and relax while in the park. 4. Enhance play opportunities for school -aged children and for children with special needs. 5. Provide spaces for larger groups and events to be held at the park, including a level space for holding events involving music or theater. 6. Provide public spaces where dogs are welcome and facilities to accept dog waste. 7. Provide bike parking throughout the park. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 4-2 of 2 5. VISIONING NARRATIVE 5.1 Balancing Natural Environment and Ambience Within Urban Context 5.11 The Property Today The 44-acre Lily Lake adjoins a substantial urban woodland and a complex of sports facilities. Space is presently dominated by a 1970's era ice arena, two lighted, fenced ball fields and 3 paved parking lots for parking approximately 20, 20, and 180 vehicles. Tucked among these are a lighted, fenced court area for basketball and racquet sports, three small, dispersed picnic spaces, a playground, a fishing pier and a boat launch and a beach. Currently there are no designated pedestrian walkways or bike lanes in Lily Lake Park. It is designed to be driven in and out of, and parked at. Lily Lake Park: Aerial view showing Lily Lake, Brick Pond with park facilities and amenities (ice arena, beach, parking lot, ballfields, sports courts, playground, picnic shelters, fishing pier and boat ramp) Note: the "Greeley Street Filtration Basin" installed in 2021 is not shown in this photo (mid -bottom of photo). The woodland is partly owned by the city (about a third), partly by the Highlands of Stillwater Homeowners Association (about a third), and partly by 4 hilltop residences (about a third, combined). The woodland constitutes about 40 percent of the shoreline, the balance of the shoreline mostly being 32 urban yards with single family homes, and the Hemlock St and Lake St W dead -ends. The property is centered in residential neighborhoods with many apartment units within a mile. Minnesota Highway 36 is only 0.8 miles away by way of Greeley Street. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 5-1 of 8 Location Map with Property Boundaries: Lily shoreline is divided by 32 private residences, roadway right-of-ways, City parkland, and the Highlands of Stillwater Homeowners Association (13 Driving Park Road residences) 5.12 Visioning Unique Spaces, Connections and the Hub Concept Building on the Guiding Principles, an outcome of the FLL visioning process, was a theme of unique spaces, connections and hubs. First discussed are those within the park complex itself. Here, individual green spaces, sports facilities and parking are seen as being connected by newly established walkways and bikeways that converge on a central outdoor program space by the beach; which we are calling the "central hub". This "hub" will not only be a physical central connecting place for transportation and parking, but one a visually appealing space taking advantage of its proximity to the immediate beauty of the lake and woodlands to connect residents to nature and one another. The second aspect of making connections are those to and from the park, with the park serving as the center of heart for surrounding neighborhoods as well as greater Stillwater. Here again, visioning embraces prospects for Lily Lake being both a destination for walking and biking, as well as an emotional centerpiece, renewing its role as Stillwater's "heart" as new generations build memories there. Overall, we urge greater emphasis on non -vehicular traffic, and to enhance green spaces in a way that promotes aesthetics and safety much as the national parks and state parks do, to better balance the natural and urban aspects of Lily Lake and its surrounding land. This rebalancing extends "what is" to "what might be" — Lily Lake Park as a premium Stillwater destination and amenity. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 5-2 of 8 5.2 Within the Park Complex 5.2.1 Imagine Imagine 4 green spaces: 1) our "back yard" at the playground & filtration basin green space, 2) our "education center" at the fishing pier and nearby shore, marsh and woods, 3) our "quiet place at the lake" in the woodlands west of the ice arena and 4) our "wayside rest" in the green space where the O'Brien Field sign is centered. Imagine pedestrian and biking routes safely connecting these 4 areas as well as the 3 parking lots and separate sports facilities. Imagine the connecting routes converging at an inviting, multi -purpose, outdoor space located at the beach and surrounding area. Collectively, these facilitate active, healthy play; support education; and provide ever more rare relaxation in the manner of quiet "unplugged" time in green spaces that can be enjoyed by all Stillwater residents and our guests. 5.2.2 Safety First 5.2.2.1 Pedestrian and Bike Ways For safety, we strongly suggest that one should have an alternative to traveling on narrow vehicle -occupied roadways or among vehicle parking spaces when moving from place to place within Lily Lake Park. Fortunately, we believe that simple accommodations can be made. These include: 1) one-way routing on the existing roadway (entering at the north, exiting at the south); 2) painted bike and pedestrian lanes on the existing roadways and on the east side of the largest parking lot (by the summer bathrooms); 3) designated crossings where pedestrian and bike traffic crosses the roadway; 4) adding a fence gate where the basketball court fence joins the O'Brien outfield (a center throughway providing access from the front "wayside" green space and the fenced court area to the summer bathrooms and water station); and 5) a constructed pedestrian way connecting the fishing pier area with the "hub" program area at the beach near the ice arena (discussed below). Lily Lake Park Entry and Parking: Fence dividing the dead -ended sidewalk and one of two entry/exit driveways. Expansive parking lot between ice arena, ballfields and lakeshore. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 5-3 of 8 5.2.2.2 Bike Racks Currently there is no bike parking provided in the park. Racks located near the playground, fishing pier and summer bathrooms would invite bike riders and would avert bikes being chained or left in an unsafe or otherwise inappropriate manner. 5.2.3 Our "Backyard" at the Playground and Filtration Basin Area The new filtration basin at the south end of the park by Greeley Street is expected to appear and function as a very large rain garden. We recommend the walkway surrounding the basin be provided with benches and landscaping to link and blend with the uphill woodlands and downhill children's play area. This would be a wonderful "backyard" for many families, especially those in the apartment complexes overlooking this spot. A sound -deflecting low earth berm with plantings would reduce street noise throughout this "backyard" green space, while also, with the possible addition of a low fence, providing a natural safety barrier for the playground area. The addition of trees in the picnic and play area is also recommended to provide summer shade and to enhance the overall greenspace ambiance. Over time, we recommend pursuing a more robust playground, perhaps including play opportunities for youth with physical limitations. A fence between the play area and Greeley Street would provide further important safety for playing children. A durable surface pathway from the parking lot to the play area would enhance access for both wheelchairs and strollers. Playground use and enhancement was mentioned by 38% of survey respondents, more than any other activities except skating and walking. In the short term, pedestrian connectivity could be provided by a crosswalk to a painted pedestrian way and a bike lane painted onto the east side of the largest parking lot. In the longer term, the FLL suggests exploring with stakeholders the possibility of a connecting pathway from the filtration basin, northward in the hillside woods at the top of the baseball outfield retaining wall and above the ice arena if this can be done while maintaining the integrity of the woodland. 5.2.4 Our "Learning Center" at the fishing pier and nearby shore, marsh and woods The fishing pier on the north end of the Lily Lake Park, abuts an area of shoreline and woodland undergoing invasive plant removal and native plant restoration. A marsh, rich with plants, fish, and wildlife runs along the roadway connecting the pier area with the ice arena and beyond. Collectively, these natural environments offer unique natural science and historical educational opportunities as well as outstanding fishing and sheltered tables for picnicking and other gatherings. This unique juxtaposition of lake, woods and marsh already offers opportunities for an educational walking circuit into all three areas, with additional opportunities pending. Plantings to deaden the traffic noise from Greeley Street would greatly enhance the nature of this area for all purposes. Forest understory plantings in the woodlands, and appropriate park plantings near the Greeley St. sidewalk, may be joint or separate initiatives. A durable surface connection between the shelter and parking area would complement the already accessible fishing pier that shares the parking lot. Alternatively, a handicapped parking space next to the picnic shelter and a level path would make it easy for people in wheelchairs to access the picnic shelter. In our conversations with the public, several groups focused on how one might both safely walk or bike between the fishing pier and the ice arena, while at the same time providing better access to the marsh along the north side of the roadway for recreation and education. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 5-4 of 8 We recommend the city build a pedestrian -way along this route, immediately abutting the roadway blacktop providing access to the marshland. With the understanding that the roadway would be one-way with a bike lane, we recommend: 1) a guardrail (low, wooden timber construction) be placed between the roadway/bikeway and the newly constructed pedestrian -way; 2) that the walkway immediately adjoin the paved area, perhaps lower to access the marsh; and 3) that it be a wooden (or plastic) walk -way blending with the fishing pier in appearance. 5.2.5 Our "Quiet Place at the Lake" in the woodlands west of the ice arena We recommend a simple footpath, wide enough for wheelchairs, providing access to the simple unspoiled nature of the woodlands and shoreline in this area. This would be a place to "unplug" among the trees and water and to be immersed in the experience of nature. It would provide access to wildlife, bird watching and a large expanse of woodland. Access in the short term would be from the old beach area (see "Hub" below). Future access might also connect via a woodland trail connecting to the filtration basin loop and/or to an extension to the west toward the Highlands of Stillwater neighborhood. We recommend that discussion be facilitated with stakeholders to the west of the city park property to explore a possible connection at the end of Pine Tree Trail or elsewhere. Lily Lake Woodlands Area: The City parkland on the southwest shoreline offers possibly the quietest spot to unplug! 5.2.6 Our Greeley Street "Wayside" in the area where the O'Brien Field sign An opportunity for shaded tables providing a welcome sidewalk "wayside" exists between O'Brien ball field and Greeley Street. Allowing for utilities, shrubs and shade trees would help buffer the athletic complex from neighborhoods to the east and provide wind reduction for the athletic complex. Centered in the portion of the park adjoining Greeley Street, this space is the park's front door or outward looking face. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 5-5 of 8 Access to the rest of the park exists by way of the Greely Street sidewalk and anticipated pedestrian/bike lanes in the one-way roadways. However, placing a pass -through gate between the O'Brien outfield and fence by the basketball court would provide a central walking corridor. This would provide ready access to the summer bathrooms and water station for those using the basketball and racquet courts as well as for those coming from the Greeley Street Wayside green space. The gate would also provide pedestrian access between overflow parking by the playground and the main parking area. 5.2.7 The Central Multi -Purpose "Hub" Imagine a small performance platform with a local acoustic band leading songs as a small campfire burns along -side, backed by the extending shadows and evening colors reflecting off Lily Lake's surface. Or perhaps a historian telling stories of the world-famous racehorse Dan Patch who lived on the hill above, or of winter ice -harvesting from the lake. Maybe this night is in the fall during the great bird migration and an Audubon Society speaker is explaining those flying overhead. Neighbors relax in their lawn chairs facing the lake. Or perhaps they sit in a small half -round amphitheater space looking to the north and west. Some may picnic at tables off to the side or behind where some parking spaces have been incorporated into the hub. Perhaps scents from food vendors drift from further behind us in the parking lot. This could be the rally point for fun events in all four seasons for both residents and visitors. What we can imagine, we can create. We strongly recommend stakeholder conversations explore creation of a multi -use, all season program "hub" in the vicinity of the beach. "Hub" Space Concept: Creating a centralized place for a sense of arrival, destination and focus between the park and the lake. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 5-6 of 8 5.3 Connecting to the Community Safe and ready access to Lily Lake and its facilities by Stillwater residents on foot and by bike fosters its role as "the heart of the community." Neighborhoods are regularly assessed by prospective residents by how readily amenities are accessed on foot and bike (the "walkability factor"). Lily Lake and its facilities are premium amenities. Its safe and ready access from surrounding neighborhoods is of strategic importance to the City of Stillwater. Therefore, the FLL visioning group recommends pursuit of three connectivity initiatives: 1) Explore short-term and long-term options for safer pedestrian crossing(s) of Greeley Street near Lily Lake. 2) Connecting a nature -focused footpath with the Highland neighborhood to the west should have further exploration and discussion with stakeholders. Conversations during the FLL Visioning Process focused on exploring a "minimalist" foot path that would avoid degrading the natural character of the woodlands and its value as wildlife habitat. Such a footpath would provide access to Lily Lake and its facilities for residents in the Highlands of Stillwater neighborhood and those further west and to Lily Lake Elementary School. 3) Improved pedestrian and bike access connecting Lily Lake with residents east and southeast of Brick Pond also warrants further exploration and discussion with stakeholders. Such a footpath would provide access to Lily Lake and its facilities for residents in the Everett Street and Forest Hills neighborhoods and to Stillwater Junior High School. ✓ L-jarRr r L e.e.Y,. ✓ . . ,wY e .• L. • Wr v7m1 Connecting to the Community: Possible pedestrian trails from surrounding neighborhoods, to avoid having to walk alongside or in busy streets. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 5-7of8 We have a dream... ... a dream that gets Stillwater's kids, families, friends and individuals away from their computers and video games and into the great outdoors once again... biking, hiking, skating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, birding, walking nature trails, and more ...all while enjoying a wonderful asset that the city already owns: LILY LAKE. Lily Lake... is a recreational gem at the heart of residential Stillwater... the only really public -accessible lake within the City limits. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 5-8 of 8 6. Alignment with City's 2020-2025 Strategic Plan Following is the City of Stillwater's Mission Statement and Core Values, together with a summary of the current Strategic Plan. (Highlighted Sections -- indicate the Friends of Lily Lake's Strategic Visioning findings and recommendations that could be in alignment with the City's vision.) MISSION STATEMENT To provide the community with a quality living environment, quality public services and facilities while protecting cultural, historical and natural resources through fair and open government, careful planning, effective management and efficient fiscal policy CORE VALUES • Respect: Honor the diverse contributions of all to the betterment of the organization and community; treat all parties equitably. • Integrity: Ethical and principled approach dealing with issues, individuals and community; Earns others' trust and respect through consistent honesty and professionalism in all interactions. • Trust: Truthful, open and accountable in all interactions • Quality: Excellence, pride and stewardship in delivery of best possible customer service with effective and efficient outcomes. • Competence: Strives for continuous improvement in self, community assets and management of resources STRATEGIC PLAN SUMMARY 2020-2025 (Revised August 2021) How can the City of Stillwater Develop Organizational Excellence: • Maintain High Quality, Efficient Public Service Delivery Standards • Develop Leadership Training and Succession Planning and a Learning Culture • Implement Organization Study Recommendations • Support Partnerships for Collaboration/Joint Services with other Communities & Organizations • Implement Software Integration and Update City Facilities Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 6-1 of 2 Implementation: • Develop Performance Measures for program/service delivery • Create a learning culture and continue Leadership and Succession Training Programs • Develop transition plans to implement Organizational Study Recommendations; address Public Safety staffing needs • Build Partnerships with Communities and Organizations for collaborative / joint service delivery • Develop strategy for software integration and efficiency and continue to update City facilities • Conduct class/comp system market update to enhance staff recruitment & retention Develop Our Community: • Define Economic Development and Branding and Communications Strategies • Promote Economic Development and Housing Affordability • Become a Year Round Destination City with a Sustainable and Balanced Downtown • Foster Community Engagement; Recognize Diversity, Inclusion and Equity • Update City Infrastructure, Including Parks and Recreation Facilities • Enhance City Policies/Ordinances • Meet the Health, Safety and Well -Being needs of Our Citizens Implementation: • Implement Economic Development Authority and initiate a Business Visitation Program • Develop Branding Strategies • Develop & implement Community Engagement & Communication Practices; including recognition of Diversity Equity and Inclusion Elements • Update ordinances to align with 2040 Comprehensive Plan • Work with Sustainable Stillwater to develop attainable tasks • Develop outdoor recreation properties that includes the river and plan for the parks and trails in Downtown • Explore sustainable funding to continue updating City infrastructure and operations • Develop a Housing Strategy Plan, Housing Rental & Building Maintenance Ordinance and review the Leasing Policy Sustain Strategic Planning and Implementation: • Develop Sustainable Funding Mechanisms for Operating and Capital Budgeting • Commit to Annual Strategic Planning • Develop a Legislative Agenda Implementation: • Conduct annual Strategic Planning Sessions & provide semi-annual reports • Continue to review Department vision and goals • Develop a Legislative Agenda for high priority City issues including potential sales tax • Review revenue enhancement sustainability Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 6-2 of 2 7. Friends of Lily Lake Prioritized Recommendations Preliminary Findings and Recommendations: The community's needs and preferences about Lily lake, as we understand them now, are expressed in the following 6 categories of our Guiding Principles (see Section 4). • Natural Environment • Access and Safety • Community Enjoyment • Activities at or near the Park • Community Responsibility • Amenities and Structures at the Park The Guiding Principles are worded in a way that we hope everyone can support and build upon; and we are open to revising them as more people participate in the vision. FLL recommends that the City adopt the Guiding Principles for initial implementations, as well as future actions at or near Lily Lake. In addition, FLL proposes the following community -generated initiatives that support the community's vision. Other ideas which the City or others might do are in Appendix A2b FLL Recommended Priorities couanorators cost SHORT TERM Designate the following traffic improvements within the park: one way vehicular traffic on the main road, bike lanes and pedestrian walkways, and yield signs for vehicles where bikes and pedestrians must cross the main road. Designate bike lanes on Greeley Street. City $$ Install bike racks in the park near the ball fields, picnic areas and bathrooms. City S Remove invasive species in woodlands and replace them with understory plants. City and non -city $ Create "wayside rest" along Greeley Street near the O'Brien Field sign. Plant shade trees there and in the playground. City $$ Repurpose beach for canoe/kayak/paddle board use City $$ Expand existing clearing of snow for skating, skiing and walking in the park and on the lake. City $ Encourage group events and activities in the park. City - Communicate about the activities and about the assets of the park and lake. City and non -city - "safe the County's swimming" education programs City and County $ Include a representative of the Friends of Lily Lake on the Park and Recreation Commission City - Reserve and plan for the central 'hub' space near the former beach. City - Study the intensity of use and remaining useful life of facilities and amenities in the park City $$ Improve wheelchair accessibility to, and use of, the picnic areas and playground. City $$ Provide toilets for all seasons at the park. City $$ Put trash and recycling cans in pairs throughout the park and clearly label all containers with small, attractive signs that explain what can go in each container. City $ Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 7-1 of 2 FLL Recommended Priorities Collaborators Cost Provide electricity for food vendors. City $ Have people adopt gardens or areas in the park so plantings are watered and weeded regularly. City and non -city - MEDIUM TERM Develop a comprehensive phased site plan for improving the park that includes a central hub, four major green spaces ("our backyard/playground," "our education space," "our quiet place at the lake" and "our wayside rest") and walkways connecting all of them. City $$ Expand native and pollinator plantings in the park and plant more trees according to the site plan. City and non -city $ Provide educational structures in the park to inform park users of the history and nature of Lily Lake and water quality structures. City $$ Remove existing fence and add shoreline walkway from the existing fishing pier past the beach and hockey arena and extend to the NW extent of City property, terminating at a new observation deck/fishing pier. Study and enhance the sensory appeal of the park for people of varying abilities, as well as improvements to the playground for older children and children of varied abilities. Form a noise -deflecting berm and plantings between the playground and Greeley Street. City City and non -city City City $$ 1 $ $$ Improve the safety of pedestrian crossings to the park along Greeley Street. $$ Support neighborhoods and cultural groups in providing activities in the park City - Provide public transportation to the park and a bus stop. City - Implement a plan to continually remove buckthorn and other invasive plants from the park and surrounding neighborhoods. City and non -city Install walking paths to promote walking in the park. Add benches in the park. City $$ LONG TERM Study replacement of ice arena with youth and elderly recreation center, with indoor "splash" pool, classrooms, concessions, etc. City $$$ Negotiate for neighborhood pedestrian access from south (apartments), west (Highlands), and east (Forest Hills), providing safer access to the lake from schools and other youth. City and neighborhoods Near the existing fishing pier, create an outdoor education area including an open-air semicircle of seating, shelter for various types of weather, adequate space for a variety of activities, different types of accessible equipment, tables, proximity to bathrooms and drinking water, etc. City $$ Create the central lakeside hub with a low platform/stage and with seating facing the lake. City $$ Construct a multi -use roofed area (no walls) over part of the main parking lot. Use it for farmer's markets, music, theater, family reunions, etc., as well as for parking. Flood it in winter for covered, lighted skating. (Possibly on the footprint of a future recreation center.) City $$$ Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 7-2 of 2 8. Closing Statements The Friends of Lily Lake would like to request the City's consideration of the findings, which we believe are in alignment and integrate well with the City's current Mission, Core Values and Strategic Plan; and then possible adoption of a phased implementation plan to carry out many of the community -generated ideas. Initially, rather than overwhelm you and ask you to sign off on our entire report's recommendations, we think it best to start by adopting our Guiding Princples, and focusing on getting your approval for the short-term recommendations of the plan for easier implementation. We have a dream. A dream that gets Stillwater's kids, families, friends and individuals away from their computers and video games and into the great outdoors once again... biking, hiking, skating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, birding, walking nature trails, and more ...all while enjoying a wonderful asset that the city already owns: LILY LAKE. We are here today to ask city and park leaders to work with us, the Friends of Lily Lake, to implement the strategic plan we have put together to accomplish this dream. We have outlined short, medium and long term goals and believe that if we work together to keep this simple, the short term goals can be accomplished within a one to three year period and with minimal city time and expense. Please envision Lily Lake as the Stillwater recreation hub of days gone by. We are not asking for the return of a public beach, but as a new park space that neighbors and Stillwater residents can use as a safe, healthy, fun, all -ages recreation space that they can enjoy year-round. Imagine a wintertime skating and cross country ski trail loop plowed out in a circle around the lake, a landing platform to put your canoe or kayak in during balmy weather, a winter outdoor ice rink for hockey and broomball teams to play and compete on, a walkable nature trail along the south end of the lake that curves into the wooded hill and back to the parking lot, and a secure bike path on Greeley Street for kids and adults to safely get to all of this. I could go on. The Friends of Lily Lake have been researching, gathering together and envisioning this plan starting in 1995. We have used a `Professional Process', encouraged `Public Participation', and have provided you with a 'Phased Plan'. We have secured neighborhood support, and studied the City's Strategic Plan to assure that we are in alignment with city goals. We now need you... as city and park decision makers... to buy into our dream and help make it a reality; and we already have a team of committed Stillwater volunteers to help. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 8-1 of 1 9. Acknowledgements The following community members contributed to the Strategic Visioning process and recommendations made in this report. Friends of Lily Lake Board: On 7 January 2020 the FLL Board voted unanimously to convene a Strategic Visioning process to provide support, envisioning, and plans for Lily Lake long-term, and to create a comprehensive vision statement; Barb Bickford of Bickford Collaboration volunteered to facilitate the process. Throughout the spring and summer of 2020 the Board conducted a series of `special' meetings, in addition to their regular quarterly meetings, to help 'set the stage' for significant community engagement and input to this process. • Mike Lyner (President) • Chris Warner (Vice President) • Nancy Lyner (Secretary) • Kathy Warren (Treasurer) • Del Peterson • Gary Warren • Jason Luhmann • Patricia Moore • Michael McCarthy City Council: On 22nd February 2021 the City Council voted unanimously to support the Friends of Lily Lake in their strategic visioning process to fully explore the potential which Lily Lake and its environment provides to the public.. • Ted Kozlowski (Mayor) • Ryan Collins (Ward 1 Council Member) • David Junker (Ward 2 Council Member) • Larry Odebrecht (Ward 3 Council Member) • Michael Polehna (Ward 4 Council Member) Survey Input: • 105 survey responses were received, several of whom requested anonymity. Driveway Gatherings: • Pine Tree Trail (Hosts: Michael McCarthy and Barb Bickford): 20 attendees • Lake Drive (Host: Cyndi Linnerooth): 18 attendees • Willard/Owens/Abbott (Hosts: Del and Marilyn Peterson): 12 attendees • Pine Street (Hosts: Steve & Susan Russell): 7 attendees • Benson Blvd (Host: Ryan & Lisa Collins): 14 attendees • Charter Oaks apartments off Curve Crest (Host: LaVonne Matzke): 4 attendees • Everett St South (Hosts: Leah & Mark Trumper): 12 attendees • Forest Hills (Hosts: Jim and Susan Honsvall): 7 attendees • Lily Lake Park: "S'more Fun in the Pask" Summer Social 15 attendees Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 9-1 of 2 Visioning Session: On 19th & 20th November 2021, all known stakeholders in the process to date were invited to an online (Friday) or in -person (Saturday) Visioning Meeting at Lakeview Hospital (Hulings Conf Room), to review and discuss the draft Guiding Principles formed from the recent survey and driveway gatherings, and to assist in possibly generating more ideas. The following persons attended: • Barb Bickford (Bickford Collaboration), Facilitator • Mike Lyner • Nancy Lyner • Kathy Warren • Gary Warren • Nance Purcell • Ryan Collins • Jim Honsvall • Sue Honsvall • Mark Trumper • Cyndi Linnerooth • Barbara Trueman • Micahel McCarthy • Rick Hill • Jackie Ulrich • Del Peterson • Marilyn Peterson • Jason Luhmann Bickford Collaboration: A special thank you goes to Barb Bickford of Bickford Collaboration who, while also a shoreline residence owner, donated hundreds of hours to facilitate our whole Strategic Visioning process. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page 9-2 of 2 APPENDIX Al. Public Input A2a. Ideas Proposed by the Community (by Topic) A2b. Ideas Proposed by the Public (by Timeline) A3. Photos A4. Maps A5. FLL Phased Vision Concept Site Plans (slides) Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A0-1 of 1 Al. Public Input to the Lily Lake Visioning Process (as of Jan 2022) The Friends of Lily Lake (FLL) has solicited public input by means of informal in -person gatherings, surveys and visioning meetings (online and in person). The results of each are described below: Informal in -person gatherings During August and September 2021, FLL led eight informal "driveway gatherings" in the following neighborhoods, attended by over 100 people: • Pine Tree Trail • Lake Drive • Willard/Owens/Abbott • Pine Street • Benson Blvd • Charter Oaks apartments off Curve Crest • Everett St South • Forest Hills In addition, FLL presented its findings and got feedback from about 50 people at an event at Lily Lake (S'more Fun event at the lake) in late September. Concerns and hopes expressed at the in -person gatherings: Water Quality • Fertilizers from the whole watershed go into the lake and Brick Pond during heavy rains. (Concern especially for fertilizer & herbicides applied to the Middle School property east of Everett St) • "Get sewage out of the lake" This person remembers when there were no bathrooms at the beach, and people just went to one designated area to relieve themselves. She was very concerned that the sewage in the lake had something to do with the amoeba. Communication • Face the stigma of Lily Lake being dangerous • Raise awareness of what people can do • Need street signs for Friends events • Wooden sign/kiosk in the park for lake events • Communicate with the neighborhood x2 • Make the lake important to the community through marketing • Would like there to be links to lake depth maps on the FLL website, for people who fish • Welcoming entry and sign Access and safety • Hope for walking trails to the park from the Highlands Neighborhood and from east of Brick Pond • The sidewalk is narrow and so close to Greeley street; it's hard to walk safely with small children • The Greeley Street sidewalk gets covered with snow in the winter or is too slippery to walk on, so people walk in the street. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A1-1 of 5 • Drug dealing appears to be happening in the park. Cars come to the park, have a quick transaction and leave. Activities / amenities • There are sand burrs in the sandy areas (former beach). Wonders if people could volunteer to use a machine to remove them • More winter use • The playground is small and does not include engaging activities for children aged 8 and up • Playground for special needs kids • Swimming and the amoeba • Food and drink • Make it smell nice • Seating to see the lake Appearance/environment • Greeley Street is noisy when you are in the park • Annuals and perennials planted in the park gardens are not maintained (weeded and watered) • Plan for when the hospital moves • Investigate what other cities and small towns do with their lakes Survey results As of early 2022, 105 people had submitted FLL surveys, regarding the following questions: 1. What do you think are the best things (strengths/positives) about Lily Lake and its surrounding land and neighborhoods? 95 responses The most common responses were about beauty, the amenities in the park, quiet, recreation, wildlife, fishing, and location. 2. What do you like (or would like) to do at Lily Lake and its surroundings? 102 responses Fish arch biros \'.�iFch 4Y!IrJIrh I:: {: :t I3 1 III SYiF. rri.111 :'IEygroJnd PirnirMniring rir� ;kc:Ik�c1II i Imo- Pickleball �l55et�llf5oi1�711 1 ILi4.Re ' Ic$ Skate `S•1o5Y51o$ C. s.niinrry Ski 41:FEk nr hikr. 30 {36.2 ; GO(161 —13 {12.7%} 25 (24.5%) ■ 1 .11.f ,: it f1;1 %J Iju {F.JE.01..} F63 {b1 R j 70 {[i$.Ga', } • 53 r5 1 31 {;iU.� y;,} 513 (54 9%) a 21 (20.6%) „ Cr.; nr, Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A1-2 of 5 3. What else might you like to do at or near Lily Lake? 81 responses Many want to swim. Other ideas include fun events, picnics, biking, dog park, boating, live music, etc. 4. Why are your answers in questions 2 and 3 important to you? 84 responses Many mention doing things with family and the community, loving the lake and natural environment, getting outdoors, peacefulness, being close to home, being able to exercise, etc. 5. What do you suggest to better care for, or to improve, Lily Lake and its surrounding area? 86 responses FLL received a wide variety of responses, which are captured in our Guiding Principles. 6. How would you like to see Lily Lake cared for? 97 responses Litter pickups in the park and s... Plant native plants or trees Remove invasive plants and tre... Aquatic plant and weed control... Foster more neighborhood 'Ora._ Foster more rain gardens in ne... Enhance care for rain gardens.._ Some other way 0 • AIM 27 (27.8%) 46 (47.4%) 54 (55.3%) �52 (53.6%) 52 (53.6%) 67 (69.1°0) 69 (71.1°0) —74 (76.3%) 20 40 60 30 6a. If you answered "Some other way" for question 6, what would you like to see done? 33 responses. (These are captured in our Draft Guiding Principles. Most have to do with water quality of the lake and communication with people.) Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A1-3 of 5 7. How involved would you like to be in the public visioning process? 105 responses I iNaiiL Lu Lx IuyaL uifuiiiiud want to h Ip offer ideaand crcaLc proposals that will park f... Iwi I} Ip1heFriendsnfIilr}I haai ii110 piducs 'ay doing a srn... I'll host a small irrfom 3donal `o rsrc-+rdrr : aaa1' Lu a ifui rn .ir}�... 1lr 1harrk . 1 cent nod 10 tre: kept in -famed. 22 '2%I —2G (24 FJ5: } - 13112.4%) 1ar1f.1%) �Lk 41. 80 —33 8. Do you want to be kept informed about opportunities to enjoy and care for Lily Lake? 105 responses 9. Would you like to become a member of the Friends of Lily Lake? 105 responses • • yei • Nii • Mbirl:r. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A1-4 of 5 Visioning meetings In November and early December, FLL sponsored three visioning meetings, one online for the public, one in person for the public and one online for the Environmental Conservation Club of Stillwater High School. Additional concerns raised at these meetings were: • Educate people about stormwater and how what people do in the watershed affects the lake • Clarify what the Clean Water Act entails • Installing a sign that defines Lily Lake park. Where are the boundaries? • Potential visual clutter from too many signs in the park • Potential noise from public events in the park • Noisy boats. Would like the wording to say "quiet" watercraft in Principle E.7. • The tension (balance) between urban and natural uses • Include Brick Pond in the lake clean-up effort • Maintain the natural environment around Brick Pond • Engage/educate users of the park and lake on how they can help. These concerns were incorporated into the Draft Guiding Principles. After checking for agreement that the wording of the Principles could be supported by everyone present, FLL invited the participants to begin proposing strategies/ideas to implement the Guiding Principles. First, participants chose one one of the six topic areas (Natural Environment, Community Enjoyment, Community Responsibility, Access and Safety, Activities at or near the park and Amenities and structures in the park) to propose ideas for. Then in small groups, FLL invited participants to craft group proposals that would meet or support or implement ALL the principles, and to submit them to FLL by email by December 5tn The consolidated list of all ideas received by FLL is in Appendix 2a, sorted by topic and by Guiding Principle number. Based on these many ideas and public input, FLL has created the draft visioning narrative and collection of initiatives proposed in this document. FLL intends its vision to meet the hopes and needs of Stillwater residents who have participated in the process. FLL is very open to hearing concerns from others who use or live near Lily Lake and the park and to adjusting the Guiding Principles to include the essence of those concerns. FLL hopes the City will also embrace the Guiding Principles as it cares for Lily Lake, Lily Lake Park and surrounding neighborhoods in the future. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A1-5 of 5 A2a. Ideas Proposed by the Public (sorted by topic) (2022-3-6) The ideas on this list are grouped into topics and put in the order of the Guiding Principles. In this way, we can see that the public proposed ideas to address every single Guiding Principle. Those who collaborate on initiatives to meet one Guiding Principle at or near the park would do well to ensure that their initiatives do not interfere with meeting any other Guiding Principle. Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by topic) Guiding PrimaryPrinciple Principle rciples Guiding RelatedPrinciples Principles Topic A: Natural Environment -- Ideas primarily to enhance or support the natural environment Minimize use of salt on streets Al A5 Create program for volunteers to keep leaves and grass clippings off streets Al C5 Recommend options for lake cleanup if the current ideas are not working, such as aerating water, cutting weeds, etc. Al Support drain adoption and installation of more rain gardens A2 C5 Create habitat for animals such as birdhouses and duck houses A3 Reduce paved parking in the park to expand natural habitat and to prevent salt and chemicals from cars from getting in the lake (planning needed) A3 Al, B1 Plant native trees in the woods formerly choked with buckthorn A3 B1, Cl Eliminate pesticide/herbicide use in the park and surrounding neighborhoods. Follow existing ordinance for pesticide and herbicides. A3 A5 Limit the amount of lawn in the park and preserve existing vegetation. A3 A5, B1 Remove buckthorn from around the lake with help of community, Friends of Lily lake and Sustainable Stillwater, each year in November A4 A3, Cl Expand use of native pollinator/prairie plants in the park, near the parking lot/road and around the new filtration basin. AS A6, B1 Support pollinator plant education and awareness A5 A6, E6 Create visible structures and activities that educate about Lily Lake's natural environment A6 E6 Put in a nature trail on city land beyond (west of) the hockey arena A6 E6, F3 Add a shoreline walkway and an observation deck or fishing pier west of the hocky arena or near the former beach A6 D3, E3, E5, E6, F3 Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2a-1 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by topic) Primary Guiding Principle Related Guiding Principles Topic B: Community Enjoyment -- Ideas primarily about public enjoyment, health and aesthetics Plant more shade trees in grass areas (e.g., by play structures) and along Greeley Street B1 A3 Use limited and attractive signage throughout the park to enhance the natural beauty B1 B7, C2 Develop a site plan for the park that includes facilities, parking, water, forestry, landscaping, (including trees, native plantings, and pollinator species) and habitat for native wildlife (public involvement and short-term planning needed) Involve U of Mn architecture and landscaping schools for developing the site plan for Lily Lake Park. Connect four green spaces: (public involvement and short-term planning needed) 1) our "back yard" at the playground & filtration basin green space; 2) our "education center" at the fishing pier and nearby shore, marsh and woods; 3) our quiet "place at the lake" in the woodlands west of the ice arena and 4) our "wayside rest" in the green space where the O'Brien Field sign is centered. B1 B1 B1 A3, A5, B5, B9 A3, A5, B5, B9 B9, F8 Create a place to serve as a central multi -purpose 'Hub' by the water. The Hub would provides a visual focal point between the water and the park (set aside area now, construct later) (public involvement and short-term planning needed) B2 A6, B1, B2, B9, El, E3, E6, E9, F3, F5 In the Hub, build a simple, short, visually appealing wooden platform so that people can sit facing the water and watch events, acoustic bands, speakers, ceremonies, etc. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) Install a berm along Greeley Street to divert noise B2 B1, E9, F3, F5 Form a group to specifically look at sensory appeal of the park and suggest improvements. Include people of different abilities (people with blindness, deafness, autism, non -ambulatory, etc.) in the group. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) B4 B5 B1, B6 Install two bulletin boards or kiosks, one at each end of the park, to post things with QR codes to the FLL website. Include spaces for announcements, park map, information about the history of the park, park amenities, upcoming events, etc. Expand the FLL website to include information about the history of the park, water quality, yard care practices, wildlife at the park and have information at the park directing people to the website B7 B8 B8 B7, C5, E6 Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2a-2 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by topic) Primary Guiding Principle Related Guiding Principles Topic C: Community Responsibility -- Ideas primarily about encouraging both the City and the community to care for the park and lake Improve and enhance communication to the community to encourage responsibility for the park and lake. Send Monthly Lily E-News. Use social media (FB, Next Door, etc.) to keep citizens aware of the goals and improvements to Lily Lake C1 B7 Keep Lily Lake "in the news". Share all the efforts that have been made to improve water quality, etc. Contact Mary Devine of the Pioneer Press to do an article on water quality improvements, what an asset Lily Lake is the to the community, etc. C1 B7 Offer volunteering events open to the public such as clean-ups, buckthorn removal, rain garden maintenance, etc. Advertise events to people in the neighborhood so they know what's happening and can come. C1 B7 Put trash cans and recycling cans in pairs throughout the park and clearly label all containers with small, attractive signs that explain what can go in each container. Have people adopt a garden in the park or an area of the park so the plantings are watered and weeded regularly. Create a volunteer group to regularly maintain the rain gardens in the park. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) C2 1 Cl, B1 C3 1 Cl, A2 Plan for adequate capital and maintenance budgets annually for existing and any future improvements C3 1 F1 Have a person from Friends of Lily Lake attend City meetings (e.g., park commission) that involve decisions about the park and lake, to continue advocating for these principles. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) C4 C3, Cl Determine the priority of various activities, e.g., planting native species vs keeping curbs clean C4 A2, A3 Use small signage with QR codes for informational messages, for example, near the new stormwater retention basin to explain what it is. Link QR codes to the FLL website. Use marketing to spread word about how to protect the lake. Raise awareness campaign: Keep leaves in your yard, keep grass clippings in your grass, avoid chemicals and fertilizers. C5 A6, C1 C5 Al, A2, C1 Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2a-3 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by topic) Guiding PrimaryPrinciple Principle rciples Guiding RelatedPrinciples Principles Topic D: Access and Safety -- Ideas primarily about physical access (by vehicles, public transport, pedestrians and bicycles) and public safety Provide transportation to the park in the summer by working with Community Thread to put a bus stop at the lake. Put the lake bus stop in the community loop bus route. D1 Create simple walking paths connecting the park to Highland neighborhood and Everett St/Forest Hills neighborhood. Include quiet coves for sitting. Do not allow for bikes on the steep hillside. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) D1 A6, B6, B9, E3 Discuss with stakeholders to the west of the city park property to explore a possible connection at the end of Pine Tree Trail or elsewhere. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) D1 E3 Allow for safer crossing of Greeley Street close to the park, either near the tennis courts or at Greeley and Churchill. Ideas: flashing crosswalk signs, lights, pedestrian -carried flags D2 Move sidewalks alongside the park to be farther from Greeley Street when it's time to reconstruct the street D2 Add additional lighting in parking areas D3 Ask for more police presence in the park D3 Make it easy to anonymously report drug dealing, paraphernalia and suspicious activity D3 Install and monitor security cameras in the park D3 Separate the exit and entry from Greeley Street, that is, make the road "one way" and paint walking lanes on driving surfaces in the park. D3 Paint designated bike lanes on Greeley St and in the park. Paint pedestrian lanes in the park. D4 D2 Designate biking routes to the park, linking the park to other major bike trails D4 Include the City's Master Trail plan map on the FLL website to show biking routes to the park D4 B7 Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2a-4 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by topic) Primary Guiding Principle Related Guiding Principles Topic E: Activities at or near the park -- Ideas primarily about activities led by people Offer events in each season or once a month, such as summer and winter bonfires, sing-alongs, and "smore fun at the lake" (annually) El E9, B3 Encourage groups to facilitate activities in the park, such as nature walks, outdoor yoga, scavenger hunts, exploration, picnics, outdoor art events, kite flying, informational sessions, birdwatching, kayaking, fishing clinics, skating parties, etc. El B3, A6, E6 Construct a multi -use roofed area over part of the parking lot, like a pole barn without walls. It could be used for music, farmer's markets, theater, family reunions, etc., as well as for parking. In the winter, one might flood it and have covered, lighted skating. (e.g., like the one at Carpenter Nature Center) Create a park scavenger hunt using QR codes or URLs on plaques El B3, E2, E6, F5 El B6, B7 Support neighborhoods or cultural groups to have events at the park and attract more people to the lake and park. El B7, E6 Clear an ice skating rink on the lake — shovel snow and clear it regularly E2 B6 Have non -lake spaces that could be flooded for ice skating in the winter and have another use in the summer (e.g., on a ballfield). E2 El, B6 Plow or groom trails on the lake in winter. Use a ski groomer to groom the trail. People will walk on it and get to know one another. E3 E1, B6 Add designated walking paths or trails in the park and through surrounding areas. Paint pedestrian walking lanes within the park, designated crossings of the road within the park, for example, painted onto the east side of the largest parking lot. E3 D1, D2, D3 Ensure walkways in the park are cleared and open, so people can hike in the winter E3 El, D3 Create interconnecting walking paths throughout the park, e.g., from fishing pier/picnic area to beach to woods west of the hockey arena, as well as from and around the Filtration basin, playground, bathrooms, to the beach, etc. E3 In the longer term, explore with stakeholders the possibility of a connecting pathway from the filtration basin, northward in the hillside woods at the top of the baseball outfield retaining wall and above the ice arena if this can be done while maintaining the integrity of the woodland E3 B9 Designate an area of the sandy beach to be for kayaks and canoes to launch OR a separate low dock for loading canoes. E4 Partner with DNR for fishing day E5 E6 Hold biking day events, with bike repair, demonstrations, free water bottles, free area bike maps, and food. E6 El Use ideas from Boy Scout merit badge program for mentored activities. E6 El Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2a-5 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by topic) Primary Guiding Principle Include historical photos in the educational website idea (from section B), as well as podcast/video/article about history, info about natural habitats and nature, and/or scavenger hunt E6 Related Guiding Principles B8 Post names of places that will rent or lend equipment or boats on a bulletin board at the park. Invite Stillwater recreational businesses to rent watercraft and other recreational equipment. E7 B7 Consider building a community recreation center to support young children and seniors by remodeling or replacing the ice arena, with an indoor pool, meeting spaces, with a view of the lake. Possibly have a half indoor/half outdoor pool. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) E8 El, E9, F5 Ask appropriate county, city and state health department staff to educate the community on ALL risks associated with swimming in all recreational water bodies. Open the beach area and educate potential users about the risks of swimming. Let individuals make their own choice to swim or not. E8 E9 Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2a-6 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by topic) Primary Guiding Principle Related Guiding Principles Topic F: Amenities and structures at the park-- Ideas primarily involving built environment Create a level area adjacent to the large west picnic shelter, with a wheelchair accessible route to that shelter F1 F3 Provide a warming house, sell hot beverages and rent skates. F1 E2 Provide water fountains or dispensers AND accessible bathrooms near each parking lot F1 Provide portable toilets for winter use F1 El Encourage use of sustainable building materials for structures and F1 equipment C3 Add a fence gate where the basketball court fence joins the O'Brien outfield (a center throughway providing access from the front "wayside" green space and the fenced court area to the summer bathrooms and water station) F1 D3, E3 Provide electricity for food vendors F1 Provide more wheelchair and stroller access within the park (hard surface trails, etc.) For example, add a durable surface pathway from the parking lot to the play area would enhance access for both wheelchairs and strollers. F1 B5, D3 Assess the use of all existing land and facilities in the park F2 Determine the remaining useful life of the existing ice arena (public involvement and short-term planning needed) F2 Support more picnicking throughout the park by adding picnic facilities by the playgrounds, by existing shelters, and by the Lakeshore. Consider putting in a bigger or additional picnic shelter Install benches by the new water retention basin, and additional benches near the lake. F3 B3 F3 B6 Remove the existing iron fence along the park shoreline and extend a walkway from the beach area to the fishing pier. The walkway could be a board walk. F3 D3, E3 Add a pedestrian -way immediately abutting the roadway blacktop next to the lake, that would also provide access to the marshland. With the understanding that paved areas would accommodate one-way car/bus traffic and a bike lane, we recommend: 1) a guardrail (low, wooden timber construction) be placed between the roadway/bikeway and the newly constructed pedestrian -way; 2) that the walkway immediately adjoining the paved area, perhaps be lower to access the marsh; and F3 A6, D3, E3, E6 Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2a-7 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by topic) Primary Guiding Related Guiding Principle Principles 3) that it be a wooden (or plastic) walk -way blending with the fishing pier in appearance. Create a welcome sidewalk "wayside" between the O'Brien ball field and Greeley Street. F3 B1 Provide for quiet contemplative spaces on the City Woodlands west of the hockey arena F3 B1,B4,B9,El Modify or add to the existing playground to make it accessible for people with special needs. For example, add a Special Needs swing. (Note: someone has volunteered to help raise funds for the swing) (public involvement and short-term planning needed) F4 Improve the playground by adding equipment for older children, such as Ninja equipment. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) F4 Provide a barrier between the playground and Greeley Street, such as shrubs or a fence, to keep children out of the street On the east side of the lake near the existing fishing pier, create an outdoor education area including an open-air semicircle of seating, shelter for various types of weather, adequate space for a variety of activities, different types of accessible equipment, proximity to bathrooms and drinking water, etc. Fence off an area farthest from the lake, where dogs could go. Install benches and waste receptacles to keep dog waste from washing into the lake. (public involvement and short-term planning needed to meet this need elsewhere, not so near the lake) F4 D3 F5 A6, B7, E6, F1 F6 C2 Install bike racks by the ball fields, picnic shelters and bathrooms. F7 Install an air station to fill bike tires, near the parking lot or near bike racks F7 Note: sections A, B, C and D, above also include ideas that involve the built F environment in the park Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2a-8 of 8 A2b. Ideas Proposed by the Public (sorted by timing) (2022-3-7) The ideas on this list are grouped in the order of the time they might be initiated. This list includes all ideas suggested by the public. Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by timing) Collaborators SHORT TERM Minimize use of salt on streets City Create program for volunteers to keep leaves and grass clippings off the streets Non -city Support drain adoption and installation of more rain gardens MSCWMO and Non -city Create habitat for animals such as birdhouses and duck houses Non -city Plant native trees in the woods formerly choked with buckthorn City and Non -city Eliminate pesticide/herbicide use in the park and surrounding neighborhoods. (note: We believe there already is an ordinance about pesticide and herbicide use on lawns) City and Non -city Remove buckthorn from around the lake with help of community (for example, FLL join Sustainable Stillwater in removing buckthorn each year in November) Non city Expand use of native pollinator/prairie plants in the park, near the parking lot/road and around the new filtration basin. City Support pollinator plant education and awareness Non -city Create visible structures and activities that educate about Lily Lake's natural environment Non -city Put in a nature trail on city land beyond (west of) the hockey arena City Use limited and attractive signage throughout the park to enhance the natural beauty City Involve U of Mn architecture and landscaping schools for developing the site plan for Lily Lake Park. City Create a place to serve as a central multi -purpose 'Hub' by the water. The Hub would provide a visual focal point between the water and the park (set aside area now, construct later) (public involvement and short-term planning needed) City Install two bulletin boards or kiosks, one at each end of the park, to post things with QR codes to the FLL website. Include spaces for announcements, park map, information about the history of the park, park amenities, upcoming events, etc. City and Non -city Expand the FLL website to include information about the history of the park, water quality, yard care practices, wildlife at the park and have information at the park directing people to the website Non -city Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2b-1 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by timing) Collaborators Improve and enhance communication to the community to encourage responsibility for the park and lake. Send Monthly Lily E-News. Use social media (FB, Next Door, etc.) to keep citizens aware of the goals and improvements to Lily Lake Non -city Keep Lily Lake "in the news". Share all the efforts that have been made to improve water quality, etc. Contact Mary Devine of the Pioneer Press to do an article on water quality improvements, what an asset Lily Lake is the to the community, etc. Non -city Offer volunteering events open to the public such as clean-ups, buckthorn removal, rain garden maintenance, etc. Advertise events to people in the neighborhood so they know what's happening and can come. Non -city Put trash cans and recycling cans in pairs throughout the park and clearly label all containers with small, attractive signs that explain what can go in each container City Plan for adequate capital and maintenance budgets annually for existing and any future improvements Have a person from Friends of Lily Lake attend City meetings (e.g., park commission) that involve decisions about the park and lake, to continue advocating for these principles. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) City Non -city Use small signage with QR codes for informational messages, for example, near the new stormwater retention basin to explain what it is. Link QR codes to the FLL website. City Use marketing to spread word about how to protect the lake. Raise awareness campaign: Keep leaves in your yard, keep grass clippings in your grass, avoid chemicals and fertilizers. Non -city Provide transportation to the park in the summer by working with Community Thread to put a bus stop at the lake. Put the lake bus stop in the community loop bus route. City and Non -city Ask for more police presence in the park City Make it easy to anonymously report drug dealing/paraphernalia/suspicious activity City Separate the exit and entry from Greeley Street, that is, make the road "one way" and paint walking lanes on driving surfaces in the park. City Paint designated bike lanes on Greeley St and in the park. City Designate biking routes to the park, linking the park to other major bike trails City Include the City's Master Trail plan map on the FLL website to show biking routes to the park City Offer events in each season or once a month, such as summer and winter bonfires, sing-alongs, and "smore fun at the lake" (annually) Non -city City and Non -city Encourage groups to facilitate activities in the park, such as nature walks, outdoor yoga, scavenger hunts, exploration, picnics, outdoor art events, kite flying, informational sessions, birdwatching, kayaking, fishing clinics, skating parties, etc. Clear an ice skating rink on the lake — shovel snow and clear it regularly City Have non -lake spaces that could be flooded for ice skating in the winter and have another use in the summer (e.g., on a ballfield). City Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2b-2 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by timing) Collaborators Plow or groom trails on the lake in winter. Use a ski groomer to groom the trail. People will walk on it and get to know one another. City Add designated walking paths or trails in the park and through surrounding areas. Paint pedestrian walking lanes within the park, designated crossings of the road within the park, for example, painted onto the east side of the largest parking lot. City Ensure walkways in the park are cleared and open, so people can hike in the winter City Designate an area of the sandy beach to be for kayaks and canoes to launch OR a separate low dock for loading canoes. City Partner with DNR for fishing day Non -City Hold biking day events, with bike repair, demonstrations, free water bottles, free area bike maps, and food. Non -city Non -city Non -city Use ideas from Boy Scout merit badge program for mentored activities. Include historical photos in the educational website idea (from section B), as well as podcast/video/article about history, info about natural habitats and nature, and/or scavenger hunt Provide electricity for food vendors City Plan for adding a pedestrian -way immediately abutting the roadway blacktop next to the lake, that would also provide access to the marshland. With the understanding that paved areas would accommodate one-way car/bus traffic and a bike lane, we recommend: 1) a guardrail (low, wooden timber construction) be placed between the roadway/bikeway and the newly constructed pedestrian -way; 2) that the walkway immediately adjoining the paved area, perhaps be lower to access the marsh; and 3) that it be a wooden (or plastic) walk -way blending with the fishing pier in appearance. City Create a welcome sidewalk "wayside" between the O'Brien ball field and Greeley Street. City Provide for quiet contemplative spaces on the City Woodlands west of the hockey arena City Install bike racks by the ball fields, picnic shelters and bathrooms. City Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2b-3 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by timing) MEDIUM TERM Collaborators Reduce paved parking in the park to expand natural habitat and to prevent salt and chemicals from cars from getting in the lake (planning needed) City Plant native trees in the woods formerly choked with buckthorn City and Non -city Limit the amount of lawn in the park and preserve existing vegetation. City and Non -city Remove buckthorn from around the lake with help of community (for example, FLL join Sustainable Stillwater in removing buckthorn each year in November) Expand use of native pollinator/prairie plants in the park, near the parking lot/road and around the new filtration basin. Support pollinator plant education and awareness Add a shoreline walkway and an observation deck or fishing pier west of the hocky arena or near the former beach Non -city City Non -city City Plant more shade trees in grass areas (e.g., by play structures) and along Greeley Street City Develop a site plan for the park that includes facilities, parking, water, forestry, landscaping, (including trees, native plantings, and pollinator species) and habitat for native wildlife (public involvement and short-term planning needed) City In the Hub, build a simple, short, visually appealing wooden platform so that people can sit facing the water and watch events, acoustic bands, speakers, ceremonies, etc. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) City Install a berm along Greeley Street to divert noise Form a group to specifically look at sensory appeal of the park and suggest improvements. Include people of different abilities (people with blindness, deafness, autism, non -ambulatory, etc.) in the group. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) Have people adopt a garden in the park or an area of the park so the plantings are watered and weeded regularly. Create a volunteer group to regularly maintain the rain gardens in the park. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) Plan for adequate capital and maintenance budgets annually for existing and any future improvements City City and Non -city Non -city City Have a person from Friends of Lily Lake attend City meetings (e.g., park commission) that involve decisions about the park and lake, to continue advocating for these principles. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) Non -city Use marketing to spread word about how to protect the lake. Raise awareness campaign: Keep leaves in your yard, keep grass clippings in your grass, avoid chemicals and fertilizers. Allow for safer crossing of Greeley Street close to the park, either near the tennis courts or at Greeley and Churchill. Ideas: flashing crosswalk signs, lights, pedestrian -carried flags Non -city City Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2b-4 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by timing) Collaborators Move sidewalks alongside the park to be farther from Greeley Street when it's time to reconstruct the street City Ask for more police presence in the park City Install and monitor security cameras in the park City Paint designated bike lanes on Greeley St and in the park. City Offer events in each season or once a month, such as summer and winter bonfires, sing-alongs, and "smore fun at the lake" (annually) Non -city Create a park scavenger hunt using QR codes or URLs on plaques Non -city Support neighborhoods or cultural groups to have events at the park and attract more people to the lake and park. Non city Have non -lake spaces that could be flooded for ice skating in the winter and have another use in the summer (e.g., on a ballfield). City Create interconnecting walking paths throughout the park, e.g., from fishing pier/picnic area to beach to woods west of the hockey arena, as well as from and around the Filtration basin, playground, bathrooms, to the beach, etc. City Post names of places that will rent or lend equipment or boats on a bulletin board at the park. Invite Stillwater recreational businesses to rent watercraft and other recreational equipment. City Ask appropriate county, city and state health department staff to educate the community on ALL risks associated with swimming in all recreational water bodies. Open the beach area and educate potential users about the risks of swimming. Let individuals make their own choice to swim or not. City Create a level area adjacent to the large west picnic shelter, with a wheelchair accessible route to that shelter City Provide a warming house, sell hot beverages and rent skates. City Provide water fountains or dispensers AND accessible bathrooms near each parking lot City Provide portable toilets for winter use City Encourage use of sustainable building materials for structures and equipment City Add a fence gate where the basketball court fence joins the O'Brien outfield (a center throughway providing access from the front "wayside" green space and the fenced court area to the summer bathrooms and water station) City Provide more wheelchair and stroller access within the park (hard surface trails, etc.) For example, add a durable surface pathway from the parking lot to the play area would enhance access for both wheelchairs and strollers. City Assess the use of all existing land and facilities in the park City Support more picnicking throughout the park by adding picnic facilities by the playgrounds, by existing shelters, and by the Lakeshore. Consider putting in a bigger or additional picnic shelter City Install benches by the new water retention basin, and additional benches near the lake. City Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2b-5 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by timing) Collaborators Remove the existing iron fence along the park shoreline and extend a walkway from the beach area to the fishing pier. The walkway could be a board walk. Add a pedestrian -way immediately abutting the roadway blacktop next to the lake, that would also provide access to the marshland. With the understanding that paved areas would accommodate one-way car/bus traffic and a bike lane, we recommend: 1) a guardrail (low, wooden timber construction) be placed between the roadway/bikeway and the newly constructed pedestrian -way; 2) that the walkway immediately adjoining the paved area, perhaps be lower to access the marsh; and 3) that it be a wooden (or plastic) walk -way blending with the fishing pier in appearance. Create a welcome sidewalk "wayside" between the O'Brien ball field and Greeley Street. City City City Provide for quiet contemplative spaces on the City Woodlands west of the hockey arena Modify or add to the existing playground to make it accessible for people with special needs. For example, add a Special Needs swing. (Note: someone has volunteered to help raise funds for the swing) (public involvement and short-term planning needed) Provide a barrier between the playground and Greeley Street, such as shrubs or a fence, to keep children out of the street City and Non -city City and public City On the east side of the lake near the existing fishing pier, create an outdoor education area including an open-air semicircle of seating, shelter for various types of weather, adequate space for a variety of activities, different types of accessible equipment, proximity to bathrooms and drinking water, etc. Install an air station to fill bike tires, near the parking lot or near bike racks City City Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2b-6 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by timing) LONG TERM Collaborators Recommend options for lake cleanup if the current ideas are not working, such as aerating water, cutting weeds, etc. City and MSCWMO Continue to plant native trees in the woods formerly choked with buckthorn City and Non -city Continue to remove buckthorn from around the lake with help of community (for example, FLL join Sustainable Stillwater in removing buckthorn each year in November) Non -city Expand use of native pollinator/prairie plants in the park, near the parking lot/road and around the new filtration basin. Connect four green spaces: (public involvement and short-term planning needed) 1) our "back yard" at the playground & filtration basin green space; 2) our "education center" at the fishing pier and nearby shore, marsh and woods; 3) our "quiet place at the lake" in the woodlands west of the ice arena and 4) our "wayside rest" in the green space where the O'Brien Field sign is centered. City City Create a place to serve as a central multi -purpose 'Hub' by the water. The Hub would provide a visual focal point between the water and the park (set aside area now, construct later) (public involvement and short-term planning needed) City Plan for adequate capital and maintenance budgets annually for existing and any future improvements City Have a person from Friends of Lily Lake attend City meetings (e.g., park commission) that involve decisions about the park and lake, to continue advocating for these principles. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) Use marketing to spread word about how to protect the lake. Raise awareness campaign: Keep leaves in your yard, keep grass clippings in your grass, avoid chemicals and fertilizers. Create simple walking paths connecting the park to Highland neighborhood and Everett St/Forest Hills neighborhood. Include quiet coves for sitting. Do not allow for bikes on the steep hillside. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) Non -city Non -city City and neighborho ods Discuss with stakeholders to the west of the city park property to explore a possible connection at the end of Pine Tree Trail or elsewhere. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) City and neighborho ods Maintain police presence in the park City Offer events in each season or once a month, such as summer and winter bonfires, sing-alongs, and "smore fun at the lake" (annually) Construct a multi -use roofed area over part of the parking lot, like a pole barn without walls. It could be used for music, farmer's markets, theater, family reunions, etc., as well as for parking. In the winter, one might flood it and have covered, lighted skating. (e.g., like the one at Carpenter Nature Center) Non -city City Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2b-7 of 8 Ideas proposed by the public (sorted by timing) Collaborators In the longer term, explore with stakeholders the possibility of a connecting pathway from the filtration basin, northward in the hillside woods at the top of the baseball outfield retaining wall and above the ice arena if this can be done while maintaining the integrity of the woodland City Consider building a community recreation center to support young children and seniors by remodeling or replacing the ice arena, with an indoor pool, meeting spaces, with a view of the lake. Possibly have a half indoor/half outdoor pool. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) City Ask appropriate county, city and state health department staff to educate the community on ALL risks associated with swimming in all recreational water bodies. Open the beach area and educate potential users about the risks of swimming. Let individuals make their own choice to swim or not. Encourage use of sustainable building materials for structures and equipment City Determine the remaining useful life of the existing ice arena (public involvement and short-term planning needed) Improve the playground by adding equipment for older children, such as Ninja equipment. (public involvement and short-term planning needed) City City City Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A2b-8 of 8 A3. PHOTOS Shorelines of Lily Lake (left to right): East (residential), South (park), West (woodlands) Shorelines of Lily Lake (left to right): West (woodlands), North (residential), East (residential) Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A3-1 of 8 North Entry/Exit: View west from across Greeley Street with tennis/pickleball courts to the left; and picnic shelter, boat landing and fishing pier to the right. Greeley Street: View east across Brick Pond towards Everett Street, with Lakeview Hospital parking ramp access to left. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A3-2 of 8 Lily Lake Park - Greeley St Filtration Basin: Overlooking the new filtration basin towards Lily Lake. Lily Lake Park - Greeley St Filtration Basin: Woodlands west, apartments on left, park on right. Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A3-3 of 8 Park N Entry: Looking east towards Greeley Park Ballfields: SW "Bonse" Field Park S Entry: Looking east towards Greeley Park Ballfields: NE "O'Brien" Field Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A3-4 of 8 Greeley Street View: Showing possible walkway location behind planter and through basketball court Basketball Court (Corner): Where corner gate could allow walkway through to restrooms Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A3-5 of 8 Lily Lake (beach): View towards ice arena entrance and parking lot. (Possible "hub" location) Lily Lake (Ice Arena Entrance): View towards ice arena entrance and lake. (Possible "hub" location) Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A3-6 of 8 West Woodlands: From Ice Arena looking north West Woodlands: Ice Arena (left), Highlands of Stillwater HOA (center), Lake Drive residential (north) Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A3-7 of 8 Driveway Visioning Gatherings: Lake Drive (photo credit: Lauren Kempf) Driveway Visioning Gatherings: Everett St, Willard St Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A3-8 of 8 A4. MAPS Lily Lake: In context •• • OE. ! - -- ••••.n.. m- .• •-.; • - r ▪ ' • t t J▪ I re • s•-•'6 -r. • Q 9 -• ▪ -Lk- • CF t. NET • • 1. ▪ • . • - eti •••.4 m•• i • • • . 0•0 .1.EM .1 • row,. r I le.rralo. lar 1•••,.••1 • ••-•-- •..I T Q I 21 V.9 I 11 Mn•M I V•j19 I M= ••I • 4.4* :40 r••• I E.IP r_ r Lily Lake: Immediate areas Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A4-1 of 4 na • 121 igigT I Co II ST d• w 6,FIRi- t. � Ii�iRl.Fkhr.� cm' 9.GH II J NIL)EH i5▪ 14 - P W. Y} t. r 1 ' 'NY,TFR Jai{Jn HEM f,JF L I I t4 5L1 XI. fWdFJ! NiW ▪ .LO� E, rt I ':' f. VYAT:; Lily Lake Area: Street Map (and surrounding parks: 2-Lily Lake, 3-Washington, 7-Sunrise, 22-St Croix Valley Rec Center, 34-Skateboard, 44-Lily Lake Elem Sch, 48-Stillwater Jr HS) 13-Benson, Location Map with Property Boundaries: Lakeshore Property Ownership (38 parcels): • 5 x City (1 Lily Lake Park & 2 adjacent properties on woodlands and Greeley St, 2 street rights of way dead -ends, Hemlock St, Lake St W) • 1 x Highlands of Stillwater Homeowners Association (1 Outlot) • 32 x Individual Residential Properties (4 Pine Tree Tr, 7 Lake Drive, 1 Brick St, 2 Hemlock St, 1 Pine St, 2 Grove St, 5 Willard St, 2 Owens St, 1 Abbott St, 7 Greeley) Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A4-2 of 4 Lily Lake Park: Aerial view showing Lily Lake, Brick Pond with park facilities and amenities (ice arena, beach, parking lot, ballfields, sports courts, playground, picnic shelters, fishing pier and boat ramp). Note: New Greeley Street filtration basin is not in the picture at the south end of the park. 1�• •F Lh VI bop .IJ Irr Id. 'Iv� I}913 Lily Lake Subwatersheds: 22 Catchments (Priority Catchments are shaded) r REF Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A4-3 of 4 • • • ..... I L-L•Traigrci.. ..... ' • - • -- • • EOM, I • - . - . „ 34 .1- • ........ ose „r •• •5r' C}3•••10 „ i .41 ••... FEY :r.991.•4111;119.••• ..... r•011• 1,911...11.• l'.1 : ....••'- '... .1.-;••••.---inem. 1.r-9—lei:Imo • :II . .... .. TraRs and Sidewalks ) 4216" {. I 2. FY .. * F EWA) ane F.eii 1rurirklc. It -de • P5iiirr5 - - - - Fi.ai Trali - • nan.d.a P 1345 Lame 1-646m 191•De KWh! Cily Pia Got coursa Flyneg)xrri Facility &.1'..ccg r_htirctplucerty orpr P!J NOM Murry room.' ctrp. urrir irwel City of Stillwater 2040 Capital Plan: "Future Trail" alongside Greeley St, Hwy 36 to Myrtle St) Friends of Lily Lake "Strategic Visioning" - Preliminary Findings & Recommendations Page A4-4 of 4 A5. FLL Phased Vision Concept Site Plans 1- LILY LAKE A recreational gem at the heart of residential Stillwater DRAFT Strategic Visioning Recommendations Friends of Lily Lake - April 2022 City-wide... Three Lakes and a River! (lake access ifvarm ' u Ct f • wry 48C murk. hair Tm 4ludo. I-ia di Sr in t $ i ;r . • fi Q • it 11.i3L Eon �[vs D El El w A. o r .,.IAirCri ,1 I.wi•. ▪ J•r{I:a. ▪ L i{ 1 1' *1. JI 1 I71 Fri r I i TLC i .>• C3 r A CITY BOUNDARY (approx.) 111 hik 17,i r. en Silllhr-rr 7 51�'I mar. �.wti{w:rw. f•. •.•-r� F+,. ?9t Ir., • nnn 4,••• .Y.,.r u? • al ` It 12,.. i•. 4 tiyr+ --ir; tiz•J Lily Lake - Immediate Neighborhoods 1 .. 1 LILY ' L+ ;}- -•- LAKE w �.� _ SCHOOL 4. • 1•5... LILY g CHURCHILL STREET •" • HIGHLANDS LAKE CD „r OF . -- STILLWATER� Y� S-TILLWATER J.1JNIOR HIGH SCHOOL , CURVE CREST a.OULEVARD i w Lily Lake -Shoreline and Park (property & parking) • , -- . •441. y• wr'10-*t-ra-+w=- _• Lai i•- � 1 {,I; ! . 4 r 1 . f _ lip • •1 .. 5- 'y -.1- `I. 1• y •h•• { ' . - k ' - ■ 4 '4, .. • 7 * r k- . ?+ti R i r! • i t e.•rt 1. i. •1 • r Lily Lake - The Park Phased Implementation Plan (community ideas) SHORT-TERM • One-way vehicular traffic • Greeley St pedestrian wayside rest • Canoe/kayak/paddleboard beach • Central 'hub' space • Accessible picnic & play areas • All season restrooms MEDIUM -TERM • Phased site improvements plan • Educational structures • Shoreline nature walkway • Wildlife observation deck • Noise -deflecting low berm • Pedestrian crossings • Walking paths & benches LONG-TERM • Youth/elderly recreation center • Pedestrian access extensions • Outdoor education area • Central lakeside platform/stage • Large multi -use, open -sided shelter P 1 O O O O 1-WAY 1-WAY Lily Lake Park - Short-term Improvements ICE ARENA P2 NOIS PERM PROPOSED BIKE TRAIL NEW WAYSIDE REST NOISE -DEFLECTING BERM/PLANTINGS ACCESSIBLE ;PLAYGROUND IMPROVEMENTS Lily Lake Park - Medium -term Improvements NEW OBSERVATION DECK - NEW SHORELINE WALKWAY Lily Lake Park - Long -Term Improvements EXTENDED WALKWAY Lily Lake Park - All Improvements -,'iJED WALKWAY rio4 NEW OBSERVATION DECK NEW SHORELINE WALKWAY CANOE LUNCH ICE ARENA EXTENDED WALKWAY COVERED ACTIVITY SPACE HUB PLAZA YEAR-ROUND RESTROOMS u u SHORT-TERM IMPROVEMENTS MEDIUM -TERM IMPROVEMENTS LONG-TERM IMPROVEMENTS NEW EDUCATION AREA ACCESSIBLE SHELTER IMPROVEMENTS NOISE -DEFLECTING LOW BERM/PLANTINGS 11 PEDESTR EXTENDED CROSSING WALKWAY PROPOSED BIKE TRAIL NEW WAYSIDE REST NOISE -DEFLECTING BERM/PLANTINGS ACCESSIBLE PLAYGROUND IMPROVEMENTS Lily Lake - Arena Parking Lot, Ballfield #1 & Courts F HUB t PLAZA ICE ARENA (-30,000sf) COVERED 'ENTRY COVERED PARKING / EVENT SPACE I •a • 3 Lily Lake - Future Recreation Center? . . LI ar> POTENTIAL FUTURE RECREATION CENTER (-60,000sf) illwater THE BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA DATE: April 25, 2022 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Jason Grode, Parks Superintendent SUBJECT: New Heights North Hill Inclusive Playground Presentation BACKGROUND Representatives from the New Heights School, located at 614 West Mulberry Street in Stillwater, will be present at the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting to present their proposal for a partnership with the City to renovate the playground area located on the East side of their facility. At the February 24, 2020, Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, the New Heights school presented their proposal for a partnership with the City of Stillwater. The Parks and Recreation Commission voted to support the proposed park, but the request at the time did not include a specific dollar amount requested. At the May 4, 2021 City Council meeting, the New Heights school presented their proposal for a partnership with the City of Stillwater as New Heights and the City partnered on a playground project about 20 years ago. The majority of the City Council voiced their support for New Heights moving forward with their project. The current proposal includes more specific requests that New Heights School is asking from the City. ACTION REQUESTED The Parks and Recreation Commission should share their comments and feedback on the New Heights North Hill Playground presentation. If the Commission would like to make a recommendation to the City Council, a motion can be made to do so. Attachments: New Heights North Hill Inclusive Playground Presentation We represent New Heights School, located at: 614 West Mulberry Street in Stillwater- 2 blocks west of city hall. We are here again to propose forging a new and pioneering partnership with the City of Stillwater: This potential partnership would be formed to co -renovate the playground area located on the east side of the Washington facility. de r New Heights School and the City of Stillwater partnered on a similar project more than 20 years ago, but times have changed, and the community would greatly benefit from this proposal. We originally partnered to erect a new playground structure at the Washington Facility -which at the time was leased by New Heights School from the Stillwater School District. The City of Stillwater co -funded the new structure in conjunction with funds privately raised by a parent committee related to New Heights School. I twa t er The Birthplace of Minnesota Academics ■ Balance Citizenship '' +'mar'{ v One of the conditions was that if New Heights School's lease was discontinued for any reason, the city would still have rights to the play equipment so that it could be relocated if needed. The equipment is still in place and could potentially be repurposed within the local community. New Heights School, through a partnership with a non-profit partner, recently purchased the Washington facility from Stillwater Area Schools, thus ensuring an indefinite stay in the community. New Heights School has formed a relationship with the Madison Claire Foundation and Flagship Recreation for the express purpose of renovating the space behind the school (east side) to create an all-inclusive, fully -accessible playground. Our plan is to create the community's first truly Inclusive Playground! An inclusive, accessible playground is designed to allow children and adults of all ability levels, including those with special needs, to access to the play area alongside their peers, classmates or family members. This design also supports children with various special needs, including those with Autism, and ADHD challenges. Our playground will have these features and many more pieces designed to be inclusive for all people! An Inclusive Playground Includes: • Rubber playground flooring for wheelchair and walker accessibility. • Ramps that provide access to all play decks • Accessible swings and ground level play components • Features with small space enclosures specially developed for children who may need a play space away from the action. • Sensory rich play equipment specially designed for sensory development. There are no Inclusive Playgrounds anywhere in the local community, at least not anything to the level we are proposing. • Cottage Grove -Woodridge Park has a playground which came together through a partnership with the city similar to what we are proposing with Stillwater. The city contributed administrative support, skilled labor and funds. • Woodbury- Madison's Place is an ideal example -located at the HealthEast Sports Complex where the city helped with funding and support. r.. Madison's Place Playground Woodbury, MN People who visit Madison's place include: • Community families • Children with special needs • Adults with special needs • Non -locals passing through or visiting the area • Madison's Place is located on a larger property that hosts other youth activities so it will generate more daily visitors than our proposal likely would. We believe Stillwater may want to consider this opportunity for the following reasons: It accomplishes several aspects of the city's strategic plan It demonstrates that the city believes all community members and visitors should have access to safe, equitable play spaces and green areas. It would be beneficial to many as it will save the taxpayers, the city, and the school money by partnering. We would share the costs and responsibility. Other cities are building these playgrounds- currently Apple Valley and Fridley have received funding from MN bonding bills. • It comes to the city as a potential partnership rather than having to fully -fund, organize, construct, and maintain a new one alone. • It demonstrates and emphasizes the pioneering spirit embraced by both Stillwater and New Heights School. ifoo • Stillwater was host of the first public school district in MN, and New Heights School was the first K-12 Charter School in MN. Both are pioneering entities! s v alb Our mission and Stillwater's Strategic Plan: To promote inclusivity, equity and update our community parks. (below is part of Stillwater's strategic plan) Develop Our Community ▪ Define Er gnomic Development and ['trawling andCommunications- Strategies • Promote Economic Development and Housing Affordability Become a Year Round Destination City with a Sustainable and Balanced Downtown • Foster Community Engagement; Recognize Diversity, inclusion and Equity • Update City Infrastructure, Including Parks and Recreation Facilities • Enhance City Policies/Ordinances • Meet the Health, Safety and Well -Being needs of Our Citizens Support and Funding we have received: • Madison Claire Foundation • Friends of Stillwater Parks • Stillwater Chamber of Commerce • Manitou Fund • Leadership -in -the -Valley team • The Harbor and American Legion • Students raising money at the school • Annual garage sales at the school RAISING FUNDS FOR A CAUSE What we need from the city: 1. A partnership with the city of Stillwater: similar to the other inclusive playgrounds mentioned earlier. 2. Financial support: We propose that city contribute $133 K per year for 3 years plus ongoing maintenance to the equipment. 3. Vocal support: get behind this effort today by talking to others and promoting our community's first truly inclusive playground. Please watch a brief Fly -over rendition of our proposed project, followed by your chance to ask us any questions about this opportunity.