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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-09-28 PRC PacketCity of Stillwater Parks and Recreation Commission July 27, 2009 Present: Vice Chair Rob McGarry David Brandt, Solveg Peterson, Mike Polehna and Sandy Snellman Staff present: Assistant Public Works Superintendent Tim Moore Absent: Linda Amrein and Scott Christensen Mr. McGarry called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Approval of minutes: Mr. Brandt, seconded by Ms. Snellman, moved approval of the minutes of June 22, 2009. Motion passed unanimously. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS Millbrook Park update Mr. Moore stated staff had met with a representative of Lennar Corp. to discuss the possibility of moving up development of the park. He said the City would like Lennar to install irrigation, grade and weed the site so the City can take the site over, seed and begin to establish a good turf for the park; he said good fields could be ready by mid- to late summer of 2010 if the City can begin seeding in the relatively near future. He noted that money is an issue for the company. He stated the Joint Board discussed this issue at a recent meeting, and that Board would like a soil stockpile currently located on a portion of the large park area removed by May 31, 2010, with turf established as soon as possible after that date. It was noted that Lennar has essentially done nothing to the park for the past year. Mr. Polehna said he thought it would be helpful for the Parks Commission to make a recommendation to the Council. Ms. Snellman moved to support staff's position that Lennar install an irrigation system, prepare the site for seeding (fine grading and weeding), remove the soil stockpile and transfer the site to City ownership. Mr. Brandt seconded the motion; motion passed unanimously. Staples Field tennis court lights update Mr. Moore stated he had been working with two contractors on various options, such as lower wattage bulbs or installation of shields, for toning down the lighting at the tennis courts. He said one possibility that appears promising is the installation of a vandal -proof timing sensor which would be utilized in conjunction with the existing clock timer. The sensor timer would enable the lights to be turned on only when the courts are in use. It was consensus that the sensor timer appears to be the best option. Mr. Moore said if it is decided to go with that option and the system works satisfactorily, it may be advisable to use the system at other parks as well. Long Lake fishing pier Mr. Moore stated the Council had directed staff to look into the possibility of installing a fishing pier at Long Lake. Mr. Moore noted there are grants available from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to assist with funding. Mr. Moore provided a map indicating one possible site at the southwest corner of the lake; he said the site, located in the Legends development, has the advantage of being located by a small parking area and in close proximity to a trail. He noted that parking could be an issue with other City -owned parcels with lake access. In discussion, it was noted that it would be preferable to have a pier at the northern portion of the lake, the deepest area, but there is no City -owned property in that area. Mr. Moore said he still has to investigate the language of an easement on the site in question to determine whether the use would be allowed. Mr. Polehna explained this issue came about in Park and Recreation Board Minutes July 27, 2009 Page 2 of 2 discussion about possible improvements to Long Lake; the DNR will not stock lakes without public access, so the Council suggested that the City install a fishing pier to meet that requirement. Mr. Polehna also pointed out there is a long waiting list for the DNR grants. No action was taken. Letter to Croixwood residents Mr. Moore stated there has been a lot of activity in the area of public property around Long Lake and Nightingale Park in Croixwood, which prompted a letter to residents explaining what can and can't be done on City property. Mr. Moore said staff would continue to monitor activity and address any issues on an individual basis. Mr. McGarry asked if signage would help; Mr. Moore agreed that might be helpful and likely could be done in- house. Mr. Moore said education also is part of the process. Mr. Brandt noted that if the situation is not addressed, it will only get worse. Ms. Peterson asked if there had been any reaction to the letter; Mr. Moore responded that he only received three calls. OTHER ITEMS Mr. Moore stated the Lions plaque has been installed on the Lowell Park flag pole. He stated there has been a problem with breakage of some decorative leaves and staff is trying to utilize a new material to help alleviate that problem. Mr. Brandt said his daughter reported a problem with a piece of equipment at Washington Square Park when they were in the Park for the Lumberjack Day's parade. Mr. Polehna pointed out the Council is considering the contract for next year's marathon and wondered if the Commission had any input. Ms. Snellman and Mr. Brandt both said they thought this year's marathon went well from their experiences. Mr. McGarry, who is serving on the special events task force, said he would keep the Commission updated as the task force begins to set policies and consider events. Mr. Moore reported the turf in north Lowell Park help up pretty well during the Lumberjack Days activity. Mr. Moore reported he will be meeting with Allison McGinniss and other supporters of a dog park on Aug. 5 to discuss what the supporters can bring to the table regarding volunteer efforts, fund raising, etc. Ms. Snellman, seconded by Mr. Brandt, moved to adjourn at 7:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sharon Baker Recording secretary Memo ilIwater THE IiRTH'.ACE OF MINNESOTA To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Tim Moore, Assistant Public Works Superintendent 1 Date: September 23, 2009 Re: Outside Ice Rink at Stillwater Rec Center The Stillwater Area Hockey Association (SAHA) has requested permission to install a sheet of outdoor ice at the Stillwater Rec Center. The sheet of ice will be located north and west of the main entrance. The Hockey Association has raised money to improve this site and help with maintenance of the ice during the winter season. The Hockey Association will assist the Rec Center staff with initial flooding. During the outdoor ice season the Rec Center staff estimates the staff time will be approximately 3 hours per day involved in maintaining the ice. Bob Kauffmen will be present at the meeting to present their proposal. Presented by the Stillwater Area Hocke Association Agenda Executive Summary Purpose Benefits Usage Location Up -front Costs Operating Costs Our Request c Gar 1 we Summary SAHA proposed a refrigerated system at the rec ar center three years ago to help with our ice shortage and create a "winter park" Proposal is to re- introduce this project with just excavating, putting up lights, and flooding the area for this winter. Will consider refrigeration in the future if usage is what we expect. SAHA already raised money for this 3 years ago and will fund the up -front costs in exchange for reduced rental costs on the outdoor ice Ongoing operating costs are minimal as infrastructure is already in place and will be funded from ice rental Execut Purpose Benefits Gathering Place Community Park e Gar Bring kids together outside instead of in front of the TV or computer (e.g. Roseville's John Rose Oval) Need more "family" activities in the area. We have one outdoor rink (very low compared to other cities) Additional Ice Time SAHA is the 4th largest program in the state and growing we need more ice! Cover ice shortage Peak hour problem currently kids are skating too late Adult league ice time more reasonable Hockey alternative to SAHA 2 Purpose I Benefits (Continued; Skill Personal Development Additional ice for "pond hockey" Additional Summer activities Soccer, Lacrosse, etc. Groups Supporting (formally or informally) Stillwater Area Hockey Ice Skating Club Stillwater Lacrosse St. Croix Valley Athletic Association St. Croix Soccer Club Rec Center Operations ar stallwate Winter One large area of ice sectioned off with foam border patrols One area rented to cover operating costs Second area is a "public park" free skating at all times Musco Light Structure Green DARK at 150 feet. Lights out at 9:30 p.m. Summer SAHA will sod in the spring Play field, lacrosse, soccer, football Gar Usage 3 Large flat area with burm surrounding it and trees on top of the burm. Two retaining walls on south -west corner stAwat Up -Fran Item: Musco Lighting Concrete for retaining walls, lights, steps Border patrols to section rink Flooring for walkway, benches, etc. Structures for kids to put on skates SOD in the spring Other Cost: 30,000 10,000 6,000 2,000 10,000 4,500 5,000 b 67,500 SAHA will cover the above up -front costs in exchange for reduced rental of ice. SAHA already has this money in the bank dedicated to this initiative from previous fundraisers. Gar Notes: Craig Gallup at Musco Materials only labor donated 3 sets Per Mike at LED Enterprises Per Mike at LED Enterprises Assume current prices hold TBD Installation Costs 4 5tijllwat Annual Operating Costs Revenue Hours Rented Cost per Hour Total Revenue Costs Electricity Extra employee at rec center Water Clearning snow (fuel/maint/etc) Other Total Costs Assumes 2.5 months of operation Monthly Annually* Notes: 80 200 3 hours per day 2.5 months 50 50 SAHA ($30) others ($75) 4,000 10,000 1,750 4,375 Lily Lake $4k month 1,350 3,375 3 hours/day per Mr. Brady 150 375 Just to flood 250 625 Volunteers to help 500 1,250 TBD 4,000 10,000 SAHA will commit to renting 100 hours of ice each year (half of the 200 estimated hours above) and will likely rent more. ar st hniat Our "Ask Gar Your approval to move forward with signing an agreement to get this work done. Again, SAHA will pay the upfront costs and the rec center will manage the daily operations of the facility. Requirement of city dollars is little to none. This will be a great addition for the community not just SAHA! 5 Memo Option 3: Long Lake open space iliwater *NE Bi^TH ?:ACE OF MINNESOTA Attached is the MN DNR fishing pier grant website information. To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Tim Moore, Assistant Public Works Superintendent Date: September 23, 2009 Re: Long Lake Fishing Pier At the July 27 Park Board meeting, locations for the Long Lake fishing pier were discussed. Staff was directed to further investigate possible locations and report back to the commission. Staff has researched all access points along the lake including unimproved outlots and has determined the following three options for potential sites. Option 1: North end of Long Lake next to the outlet structure along 72 Street It is the City Attorney's opinion that the City can maintain an access at this location. Parking at this site is limited to on- street parking and it is on a curve with poor site distances. There are no residents located in proximity to this site. Option 2: Southwest corner of Long Lake on 62 Street This site is located at the intersection of Long Lake Trail access point and 62 Street. There is adequate parking for 12 cars approximately 500 feet to the west of this site. This location is an established trail with existing pedestrian use. However, there is one residence near the site. This site is located on the southeast corner of Long Lake with access on Long Lake Drive. Off street parking is in the residential area and approximately 1000 feet from the access point. Although this site is somewhat removed from the residents, it's not a desirable location. In summary, there may be easement and access issues associated with each of these sites. This will involve additional staff time in determining the feasibility of constructing a fishing pier. Staff is looking for direction from the Commission to further research these sites. Washington Conservation District Lily Lake Boat Launch Concept Plan KEY TO FEATURES BMP Pervious Pavers Native Plantings Pavement Removal, Plantings Sand Canoe Launch `Map Prepared By: 5 1 10.1 1 0 20 40 1 =20' Feet N 0 Original Map Size 11" x 17" W S R21 R20W R T32N T32N IN kk.11 T31N T30N T29N T29N T2SN DON T27N R22W R21W R20W T27N Vicinity Map 0 Scale in Feet this drawing is the result of a compilation and reproduction of land records as May appear in various Washington County offices. The drawing should he used for reference PurPoses Washington Courtly. not responsible for any inaccuracies. Source. Washington County Survey.. Office. Phone M51)430-6875 Parcel data based on FS490 infonnWoo current through. Map printed. Septem ber 3 ber 23 2659 763 Option 1: North end of Long Lake Pictures below: 72 Street looking east and west 'PL A A A' 1 . 1 Option 2: Southwest Corner of Long Lake Pictured right: Trail Connection • Below (left): 62 Street looking east with parking area to the right Below (right): 62 Street looking west a Y x , 4r, gig Option 3: Long Lake Open Space: Top pictures: Open space Lower pictures: Long Lake Drive access and 62 Street Access ry. yy • d 4 g RP ♦z � � � rjyk � :r Fishing pier grants: Minnesota DNR Fishing pier grants Program purpose To improve fishing opportunities, especially to meet the needs of children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Eligible projects Development and installation of fishing piers. Also, the program provides for the development or improvement of shore fishing sites or shore fishing platforms. Local units of government provide public land, accessible sidewalk /path, accessible parking space and on -going maintenance. Who may apply Counties, cities, and townships. Priorities Projects are selected based on ranking the criterion which include but are not limited to the following: public fishing demand, accessibility, location, gamefish present, and project sponsor donation. Level of assistance Up to 100% of development and installation of the fishing pier /shoreland site with a maximum grant amount of $25,000 for a traditional DNR floating fishing pier. General information This program was created in 1980 by the State Legislature. It has received funding from various sources, including grants from the Legislative Commission on Minnesota Resources. The piers are built by MINNCOR Industries (state prisons) and more than 250 piers have been installed statewide. How to apply Applications are accepted year- round. Project awards are made in the fall. For more information about this program call the Area Trails and Waterways Supervisor in your location or you may contact: Nancy Stewart, Water Recreation Program Coordinator DNR Division of Trails and Waterways 500 Lafayette Road, Box 52 St. Paul, MN 55155 -4052 651 259 -5616 651 297 -5475 FAX nancy.stewartadnr.state.mn.us Related DNR programs Outdoor Recreation Grant Program Water Recreation Acquisition and Development Program Other Related programs None. http://www.drinstate.mn.us/grants/recreation/fishing_pier.html Page 1 of 1 9/24/2009 Memo t uwater THE BRTH ?LACE DE MINNESOTA '1*. 14 E BIRTHPLACE OE MENNESBTA As volunteers the Smith Family Maintains This Segment Of The McKusick Loop Trail To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Tim Moore, Assistant Public Works Superintendent Date: September 23, 2009 Re: Adopt a Trail Signage City of Stillwater initiated an Adopt a Trail program in 2003. Staff has been working on a plan to try and promote this program and make the opportunity more visible. In the last six years we have had three groups adopt the Mulberry Ravine trail. The volunteers pickup debris, monitor the state of the trail and perform some light weed control. As part of the adoption program, signage is provided upon request giving recognition to the volunteers. With the new McKusick trail loop from Owens to Meadowlark staff has received a request to adopt this section of the trial along with signage. Below is an example of the proposed layout of the sign for your approval. A iliw ADOPT A —TRAIL PROGRAM Volunteers Guidelines: Description of Duties 11water T H E B I R T H P L A C E OF M I N N E S O I A ADOPT -A -TRAIL PROGRAM Description Complete an Adopt -a -Trail Application and adopt a section of trail. When a trail is adopted with an agreement for a two -year period, a request for sign to be placed at the entrance of the trail with the name of the adopter(s) of the trail can be made. Participants must review enclosed safety guidelines before beginning program. There is no formalized training; however, volunteers are encouraged to ask for advice and assistance from the Parks Department staff. Adoptee provides an activity report upon completion of clean up to the Trail Coordinator. (It is important to do this, so that the city may keep track of work completed and so that you will be recognized for all of your hard work!) Inspect the trail for general damage, downed trees, erosion on the trail, missing signs, etc. and report these problems to the Parks Department. Pick up litter on the trail. Garbage bags are available from the Parks Department. Arrange pickup date of filled bags in advance with the Parks Department and place filled trash bags at the pre arranged locations. Prune brush and branches (smaller trimmings can be scatter in the brush/weeds along the trail; for pickup of larger branches and limbs contact the Parks Department. Volunteers are required to use their own tools. The parks department may supply some specialized equipment depending on the type upon request. Remove debris (tree branches, trash, etc) from drainage ditches, stream shores or along side of trail. Remove debris to maintain proper flow of drainage and stream water. Do not attempt to remove debris that appears to be dangerous (report the condition to the Parks Department). Place filled trash bags at pre arranged locations. Mowing/weed trimming along trail, posts, benches, signs, etc or report the need to do so to the Parks Department. Report any unusual or suspicious events on the trail to the Parks Department or City of Stillwater Police (651- 351- 4900). City of Stillwater Parks Department Mail: City of Stillwater 216 N. 4th Street Stillwater, MN 55082 Location: Public Works Facility 3325 Boutwell Road Parks Secretary /Trail Coordinator Beth Wolf Phone: (651) 430 -8837 Fax: (651) 430 -8810 Parks Foreman Scott Schell Phone: (651) 275 -4106 Fax: (651) 275 -4112 T H E B I R T H P L A C E OF F A I N N E S O I A Adopt A Trail Program ADOPT -A -TRAIL PROGRAM Do you like the outdoors? Are you looking for a way to get involved in the community? Participating in the Adopt -a -Trail Program is a way to give back to the places you love. Individuals, businesses or families can breathe in the fresh air while helping to make sure local trails are inviting and safe. Your love for the environment will make a positive impact in the community and be rewarding at the same time. We encourage families, scout troops, youth groups, schools, special interest groups and individuals to get involved. Many of our trails are waiting to be adopted by you or your group. Volunteers can help keep the trails free of unsightly litter, monitor conditions, and perform routine maintenance and other projects. Adopt -a -Trail Program is a fun, educational volunteer program designed to give the public an opportunity to be involved in preserving and improving the quality of our trails. Your volunteer efforts on our trails increases public awareness of the importance of conserving and protecting our natural resources, generated pride in our park system and demonstrates your commitment to your community. Procedures for Adoption You or your group can adopt a trail or a portion of a trail by providing a variety of services at least 4 times a year over a two -year period. The Parks Department will provide safety guidelines as well as on -going coordination and support. 1. Decide on a trail and the tasks you or your group is willing to provide. 2. Complete and mail in the attached application. 3. The Trail Coordinator will contact you to develop an Adopt -A -Trail agreement and trail assignment. 4. The Parks Depal lment will recognize your efforts upon request with a park sign listing your name /s. Don't have the time to commit to a long -term adoption? The Adopt -A -Trail program also encourages one time clean -up projects, seasonal weeding or raking and often sponsors special projects such as planting and trail clean up. Your efforts will be appreciated. z CITY OF STILLWATER ADOPT -A -TRAIL PROGRAM AGREEMENT Name Organization/group Name: Address City Zip Day Phone Other Phone Fax Back -up Contact Person Phone Requested Area Choice 1.) 2.) THIS AGREEMENT IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: 1. This agreement grants the adoptee those rights specifically stated and no other. 2. The adoptee shall save harmless the City of Stillwater, and all officers, and agents thereof, against any and all claims arising from operations covered by this agreement. 3. This agreement expires after 2 years. Groups may renew the agreement. 4. Participants must hold a safety meeting once a year prior to the first pickup, conducted by the adopting group with provided safety tips used as a guideline. 5. The City of Stillwater reserves the right to refuse, cancel or revise this agreement if in its sole judgment the nature of the adopting group is political, controversial in questionable taste or if the group is not meeting the terms of this agreement. 6. Signing of this agreement and/or participation in the Adopt -A -Trail program does not indicate the City of Stillwater supports or endorses any organization or position. 7. The adoptee agrees to do the maintenance outline in handout and abides by the conditions herein with to the satisfaction of the City of Stillwater Parks Department. 8. The trails shall remain open to the public and this agreement in no respect gives exclusive rights of use to adoptee. 9. There shall be no fees paid or compensation charged as a result of this agreement. 10. Any and all volunteers of the group or other persons engaged in the performance of any work or service performed under this agreement shall not be considered employees of the City of Stillwater and any and all claims that may or might arise under the Workers' Compensation Act of Minnesota and on behalf of said employees or other persons while so engaged, and any all claims made by any third party of the group's volunteers or other persons while so engaged on any of the work or services to be rendered shall in no way be the obligation or responsibility of the City of Stillwater. Applicant /Authorized agent agrees to all conditions of the agreement. Signature of Group Representative Date Office Use Only Approved Assigned Area: Start Date: Expiration Date: Rejected Reason: CITY OF STILLWATER ADOPT -A -TRAIL PROGRAM Safety Guidelines Notify the Parks Department of your cleanup schedule and to obtain necessary equipment and arrange garbage pickup. Adopting groups must provide adequate supervisor for participants under the age of 18. Larger groups should be divided into teams with each team supervised by an adult. Groups must have an emergency contact person. This person shall know your exact working location and approximately how long you will be working Know the location of the first aid kit. Know how to respond in case of an emergency. Always know where your trail sections nearest emergency access point it. Be aware of your surroundings to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Always stay with your group. Alertness and care in all that is done on the trail and performing within the group's known capabilities are among the best preventive measures against accidents Do not wear headsets or engage in horseplay or other conduct, which would divert your attention from you work or impair your ability to perceive hazards from traffic or other dangerous situations. Work only in daylight hours and in fair weather (try to avoid extremely hot or cold days). Take breaks, drink fluids, and don't overexert yourself. Never participate in trail work/litter pick up while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Wear clothing that protects your arms and legs, as well as hard -soled shoes and work or gardening gloves. Light colored clothing is most visible. Avoid areas where hazardous conditions exist such as roads, parking lots, bridges, construction sites, open water, and areas where mowing, tree trimming or pest control is in progress. Do not pick up materials that appear to be hazardous. Contact the Parks Department to report such materials. Use caution in handling collected items. Do not crush collected items; broken or jagged objects could cause injury. All trash must be placed in bags. Those objects to large to be put into bags shall be placed next to the bags in designated location for pickup. Do not attempt to pickup heavy materials. Notify the Parks Department for pickup. Thank You!! We appreciate your participation in this program. The City of Stillwater is a cleaner place to enjoy because of your involvement!! Memo Ifitwater THE. BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Tim Moore, Assistant Public Works Superintendent Date: September 23, 2009 Re: Park Amenities at Prairie Park Staff has received a request from the Settlers Glen single Family Homeowners' Association Inc. for additional amenities at Prairie Park. These include gazebo type structure on a concrete slab, one or two picnic tables, charcoal barbeque grill, benches and two trash receptacles. Capital funds have been dedicated for 2009 and 2010. However with limited availability of additional capital funds in the near future this may delay some current and future projects. City staff along with Parks Commission may have to reevaluate our short and long range plans for capital expenditures. At the present time the current condition of some our City parks warrants improvements. Staff recommends Parks Commission hold this request for future improvements. SETTLERS GLEN SINGLE FAMILY HOMEOWNERS' ASSOCIATION, INC. 7100 Madison Avenue West Golden Valley, MN 55427 (763) 225-6430 August 27, 2009 Mr. Tim Moore Assistant Public Works Superintendent City of Stillwater 216 N. 4th Street Sci iwater, MN 55082 Dear Mr. Moore: Thank you for meeting with Jill Chau, Elisabeth Brod and me, members of the Settlers Glen Single Family Homeowners Association SGHOA) Board of Directors, to discuss plans for Prairie Park and the bus shelter on Macey Way. The SGHOA Board of Directors met last week to review two proposals from local landscape companies for enhancements to the park and bus shelter. The Board unanimously agreed to proceed with negotiations to refine and agree on a plan. We hope to have a final plan available for your review and approval soon so we may begin construction within the next few weeks. As you know, SGHOA has already invested more than $4,000 to install and maintain rain gardens near the monuments; and wildflowers, native grasses and sod on Boutwell Boulevard between Macey Way and Atwood Lane. After the park and bus shelter area enhancements are completed, we anticipate our 2009 investments in improvements to City -owned land will exceed $25,000. To leverage our investments and continue our momentum to provide improvements to Prairie Park, the SGHOA requests consideration by the City of Stillwater, Public Works Department, to install the following improvements near the play area: Gazebo -type structure on a concrete slab One or two picnic tables under the roof of the structure Charcoal barbecue grill near the structure Benches near the structure, matching the black metal benches currently in the park Two trash containers, matching the black metal containers in the park The SGHOA Board of Directors would be pleased to work with you and other representatives of the City of Stillwater to determine the best location for these improvements. However, because the future SGHOA- funded project to enhance the park will add trees and seating areas on the North, South and West sides of the play area, we feel the best location for the improvements listed above would be on the East side of the play area. Thank you for your consideration of our request. If you have questions or comments, please don't hesitate to contact us. Very truly yours, Settlers Glen Single Family Homeowners' Association, Inc. Memo Lily Lake Boat Launch Other Items itiwater THE BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Tim Moore, Assistant Public Works Superintendent I1✓1 Date: September 23, 2009 Re: Informational items The Washington County Conservation District has approached the City with a proposal to install some water quality features at the Lily Lake boat launch. These features include installation of pervious pavers, native plantings and a sand canoe launch. This work with be performed largely with volunteer labor from the Great River Greening Group Organization and the City will be lending a hand with the bituminous removal and subgrade excavation. There will be approximately 400 square feet of pervious paver bricks installed adjacent to the existing concrete boat ramp. A sand canoe launch will be located directly to the north of the boat ramp. The area between the fishing pier and existing boat ramp will have an area of pavement removed and re- vegetated with native plantings from the edge of pavement to the shoreline. Attached is an aerial map showing the concept plan. BMP Pervious Pavers Native Plantings Pavement Removal, Plantings Sand Canoe Launch Map Prepared By: