Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-02-23 PRC MINCITY OF STILLWATER PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING February 23, 2015 Present: Acting Chair Rob McGarry, Commissioners David Brandt, Scott Christiansen, Don Stiff, Council Liaison Mike Polehna Absent: Chair Linda Amrein, Commissioners Solveg Peterson and Sandy Snellman Staff present: Public Works Superintendent Tim Moore, City Planner Abbi Wittman APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion by Commissioner Christiansen, seconded by Commissioner Brandt, to approve the December 22, 2014 meeting minutes. All in favor. OPEN FORUM There were no public comments. ACTION ITEMS Friends of Stillwater Parks There were no representatives present. This item was postponed to the next meeting. Brown's Creek Preserve Update and Park Use Request City Planner Wittman stated that a response to the City's request to allow mountain bikes at Brown's Creek Preserve has been received from the Department of Natural Resources. DNR Regional Director Keith Parker expressed serious reservations about the proposed usage, though he did indicate a reserved willingness for further consideration with more detailed information and examination. The SASCA (Stillwater Area Scholastic Cycling Association) would like to proceed with Phase 2 located north of the Brown's Creek Trail, which does not require DNR approval. Phase 2 would be a 2.5 +/- mile system largely following newly created and existing pathways, designed for bicycle use only. The trails would be approximately 1.5' wide on the surface, with 3-4' cleared airspace. Minimal assistance would be required from the City. Hank Gray, Assistant Coach of Stillwater Area High School Mountain Bike Team and SASCA Board Member, requested that the City follow up with the DNR on Phase 1, so the issue can come to a conclusion. The high school mountain bike team is starting to work with VAA to involve the younger kids. Brown's Creek would be an appropriate place for the beginning levels of mountain bike riding. He reviewed Phase 2 plans. Acting Chairman McGarry asked if Phase 2 would be worth doing without Phase 1. Mr. Gray replied yes, 2.5 miles of beginner to intermediate level biking is more than adequate. If Phase 2 is approved, the group would postpone or forego Phase 3. He still Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting February 23, 2015 believes the City should pursue a walk-through of the site with the DNR to consider Phase 1, if it doesn't require too much effort. Council Representative Polehna indicated the dog walkers have expressed concerns. Mr. Gray responded that dog walking could be on the south side where there would be no bikes. Motion by Acting Chair McGarry, seconded by Commissioner Christiansen, to approve proceeding with Phase 2 as proposed and direct staff to schedule a public information meeting on Phase 2. All in favor. Richlind Subdivision Parks and Trails Fee -In -Lieu City Planner Wittman stated that Thad Rich plans to develop 7.82 acres of land located at 13310 Boutwell Road. A total of eight lots, to be known as Richlind, are proposed. A combined total of 3.30 acres of the site is unable to be developed due to wetlands and associated wetland buffer. Conservation easements will be placed on these areas. Because the Comprehensive Plan's park chapter shows no parks or trails planned for the property, the contribution to the park system should be in the form of a fee which would be $2,000 per lot (total $16,000). The developer would also be responsible for a contribution of $500 per lot ($4,000 total) toward the City's public trail system. Staff recommends a cash dedication of $20,000 for Richlind's park and trail obligations. Motion by Acting Chair McGarry, seconded by Commissioner Brandt, to require a cash dedication of $20,000 for the development, in lieu of land. All in favor. Thad Rich, developer, noted an existing trail on Boutwell will serve the development. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS Public Works Superintendent Moore stated he received email from Allison McGinnis indicating that the dog park is being heavily used. He also noted that work is progressing on the Lowell Park Bathrooms. COMMISSION ITEMS/TOPICS Council Representative Polehna noted that the Bridgeview Park plan will hopefully be done for the next Council meeting. Also, the City is still working on public access to the St. Croix River as part of the bridge project. City Planner Wittman stated the DNR has requested permission to use City property near the old depot for a kiosk for the Brown's Creek Trail. In addition to the kiosk, a trash receptacle, water, and bench may be installed. Commissioner Christiansen mentioned results of a survey he heard about in conjunction with the school district's potential bond issue, indicating that the public feels the City of Stillwater hasn't historically provided sufficient community facilities. Page 2 of 3 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting ADJOURNMENT February 23, 2015 Motion by McGarry, seconded by Christiansen, to adjourn. All in favor. The meeting was adjourned at 7:52 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Julie Kink Recording Secretary Page 3 of 3