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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-11-18 PRC Minutes CITY OF STILLWATER PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING November 18, 2019 Present: Chairwoman Linda Amrein, Commissioners David Brandt (left at 8:26), Scott Christensen, Sam Nelson, Sandy Snellman, Stephanie Souter, Council Representative Mike Polehna Absent: Commissioner Pam Johnson Staff: Public Works Superintendent Tim Moore OPEN FORUM Roger Tomten, 718 South Fifth Street, stated that Sustainable Stillwater MN would like to hold a tree planting event for the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, April 22, 2020. He requested the Commission’s input about possible locations to plant a tree in the parks. He added that Sustainable Stillwater has an Adopt-a-Raingarden Program and an Adopt-A-Drain Program. They are working on a Bird City Program, helping implement the GreenStep Cities Program, and are working with the Chamber of Commerce on a business initiative and awards program. APPROVAL OF THE SEPTEMBER 23, 2019 MINUTES Motion by Commissioner Brandt, seconded by Commissioner Snellman, to approve the September 23, 2019 meeting minutes. Motion passed, 6–0. ACTION ITEMS Aiple Property Use (Rowing Groups) Councilmember Polehna led discussion about establishing a silent sports activity center (aerobic water activities) at the Aiple property, which was purchased by the City 5-6 years ago. He and Councilmember Weidner have been working with different groups to get ideas for activities, including the Minnesota Boat Club. He would like the Parks Commission’s endorsement before the concept moves to the City Council. Ixchel McKinnie, member of the Minnesota Boat Club in St. Paul and a US Rowing Licensed Referee, showed two videos about silent sports, which are any non motorized aerobic activity. The group supports the establishment of a silent water sports and education center to bring rowing back to Stillwater. Harrison, Hudson, WI, who used to row with the Minnesota Boat Club, voiced support for having a rowing facility at the Aiple property. Jody Madden, Harrison’s mother, explained the benefits of rowing. Participants learn river etiquette and techniques, and how to be better stewards of the water. Kellee Wren, one of the other mothers, spoke in support of a rowing center. Ms. McKinnie added that the rowing community in Minnesota is robust. The western suburbs are over represented in rowing clubs. The nearest club in Wisconsin is in Madison. This part of the St. Croix Valley is under-served. She explained Easy Dock, the independent rental system used at lot of rowing clubs that gives people an Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting November 18, 2019 Page 2 of 4 opportunity to try canoeing and rowing without having to own the equipment. It is envisioned that there would be two stations, one at the Aiple property and one somewhere downtown, so a person could park, walk the trail, kayak or canoe down, have lunch, then head home. Commissioner Nelson asked about the building needs for a silent sports center. Ms. McKinnie replied that the bottom level would be the best suited. If doors can be built near the wall south of the pool, it would be easier to get the boats out to the water. The pool space could accommodate boats and oars. They would like showers and locker facilities for club members if possible. They envision an education component as well as rowing being in the building. Councilmember Polehna added that the center would seek partnerships with Courage Center and disabled veterans programs. Ms. Madden stated that her husband, a disabled veteran, has contacted US Rowing to help initiate a program for disabled veterans to be able to use the facility. There is grant money available from US Rowing for disabled veterans. Commissioner Nelson remarked that it sounds like a great opportunity, He would want to be clear that the property is open to all residents of Stillwater. Councilmember Weidner added that incorporating water activities is part of the City’s strategic plan. Amelia Wren, who started rowing at age 12, spoke of the benefits of the sport. Commissioner Christensen asked about parking. Councilmember Polehna replied that parking for the center would be by the Zephyr. Commissioner Souter noted that the driveway crosses the trail, which is heavily used by walkers and bikers. Councilmember Polehna responded that area needs to be cleaned up to open up sight lines. Chairwoman Amrein remarked that education is needed for bikers using the trail with walkers, to announce themselves and slow down. Commissioners Christensen and Nelson agreed. Commissioner Brandt said the City talked about silent sports from the time it acquired the property. He is in favor of pursing the silent sports center. Motion by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Christensen, to recommend that the City Council approve the concept of a silent water sports center on the Aiple property. Motion passed, 6-0. Relay for Life Event Elizabeth Rohrer, Community Development Manager, American Cancer Society, explained an event application for the Relay for Life fundraiser to be held in North Lowell Park, Friday night August 7 through 9 am Saturday morning August 8. Lois Raboin Conn, volunteer, added that this is Relay for Life’s 26th year. Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting November 18, 2019 Page 3 of 4 Commissioner Souter asked if additional security or police presence is needed. She also asked if there is a flooding contingency plan. Ms. Rohrer said she is open to ideas for a contingency plan. Mr. Moore said the arts festival had to relocate to parking lots this year due to flooding. Lot 8, 10 and 11 could be considered as an alternative in case of flooding. The lower levee walk has been underwater 13 of the last 22 months. Ms. Rohrer said using the parking lots as an alternative would be fine. They have not needed extra security in the past but will consider it if the Commission requires. Mr. Moore added police and fire review the event applications and have the opportunity to make comments about security and weather contingency plans. Commissioner Christensen asked why they decided to move the event away from the high school. Ms. Raboin Conn replied that after the 25th year, they wanted a change. They hope the Lowell Park location will draw more spectators. Mr. Moore asked, what are the electric needs of vendors? Ms. Rohrer replied the vendors have been told they will not have electricity. Ms. Raboin Conn added that last year they had three food trucks. This year they may have more but they usually have their own generators. Motion by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Souter, to recommend that the City Council approve the Relay for Life event in Lowell Park August 7-8, 2020. Motion passed, 6-0. Park Naming of Aiple Property and Palmer Property Chairwoman Amrein noted that she does not know anything about the Aiple or Palmer families and would like to ask the historical society for background on these families if their names are being considered. Councilmember Polehna pointed out that Aiple and Palmer are the names of the property owners from whom the City purchased the property. Commissioner Christensen suggested that the City’s park-naming criteria should be amended to prohibit naming a park after a person. Councilmember Polehna suggested holding a contest as was done for Bridgeview Park. The Commission could select the five best names, put them on the City web site and let the public choose from the finalists. Commissioner Nelson commented that he doesn’t feel that naming a park after a person needs to be stricken from the policy. Motion by Commissioner Souter, seconded by Commissioner Snellman, to direct City staff to hold a contest for the naming of Aiple and Palmer properties and the Commission will review up to the top 5 for each park, and put them out to a public vote. Motion passed, 5-0. INFORMATION ITEMS