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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-05-20 PRC Packet AGENDA CITY OF MAPLEWOOD PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING Wednesday, May 20, 2009 7:00p.m. Council Chambers - Maplewood City Hall 1830 County Road BEast 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes a. March 18,2009 b. April 15, 2009 5. Visitor Presentations a. Recreation Division Update (Pauline Staples, Audra Robbins and Jim Taylor) 6. Unfinished Business a. Lions Park Neighborhood Meeting b. Park and Recreation Commission Annual Report c. Lake Links Trail- McKnight Road to Bellaire Avenue 7. New Business a. Fish Creek Natural Area Greenway Commission (ad-hoc) 8. Commissioner Presentations a. Subcommittee Reports 1. Dog Park 9. Staff Presentations a. Community Gardens b. Legacy TolLot 10. Commissioner Comments 11. Adjourn - (9:30 p.m.) Next meeting - June 17, 2009 CITY OF MAPLEWOOD PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION March 18, 2009 7:00 p.m. COUNCIL CHAMBERS - MAPLEWOOD CITY HALL 1830 COUNTY ROAD BEAST 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Fischer indicated eight out of nine commissioners were pre 2. ROLL CALL Present Chair Peter Fischer Commissioner Craig Brannon Commissioner Don Christianson Commissioner Dan Maas Commissioner Mary Mackey Commissioner Carolyn Pete Commissioner Bruce Roma Commissioner Therese So He added one item, which was the introduction of eeting would include public comments from nnon made a motion to approve the agenda, ya unanimous vote. Ch , the new City Manager. Mr. Antonin extended an "open door" policy to the d they could work together to further enhance the Parks and Recreation Department and facilities. 5. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS John Nephew, 628 County Road B. E., Maplewood. Mr. Nephew proposed an idea regarding funding challenges. He said the commission has a need for a funding source that is specifically committed to the parks. He explained what is called the Electric Franchise Fee. Cities are authorized to collect this fee through the local power company. Currently a fifty cent set fee is charged to the power company and passed on to the customer. This money goes into the general budget in Maplewood. Currently, the money is dedicated for street lights. He suggested if there were to be an association between that fee and park 1 maintenance, the city would authorize additional money to this fund; perhaps twenty-five cents, which would amount to $90,000 per year if each household was assessed. The city would create a pact with residents, and the parks, trails and open spaces would be part of a plan making sure maintenance is kept up. This fee would not be tax deductible or based on ability to pay. Mr. Nephew concluded by saying the City Council would be interested in ideas from the commission, suggesting they implement this as a goal and have discussions at future meetings. Chair Fischer stated if the commission deemed this worthwhile, they would discuss at a later date, and ask staff to bring additional information for an agenda item at a future meeting. Director Konewko said this would be how the process would progress if they chose to go with this idea. Chair Fischer said the discussion would focus on the final link of t staff focusing berof built; and ts: Lydia , the third alignment had xisting trail through the rossing McKnight Road, it ue, connecting to the existing oad, extend north along the east side of Bellaire Avenue ntly the city is planning a curb ject could be incorporated into the tion (3800 feet) is $230,000. The be additional costs of $25,000 orn then summarized the pros 6. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON LAKE LINKS TRAIL John Horn was present from Kimley-Horn Associates concerning the Lake Links Trail during the last sever on the two alignments the Parks and Recreation Co segments of the trail have been built; a portion of the they would focus on McKnight Road and Bellaire Av Avenue, County Road D, and an option going throug been abandoned. The alignment along Ly Bruentrip Farm property and connect with would travel on the east side of McKnight trail along Lydia Avenue. . The County R east side of McKnig to connect with the and gutter redevelo roadway constructio estimated cost for t to $50,000 to prepa and which Mr. Horn attempted to answer questions. , Maplewood, was in favor of the trail going along Lydia Avenue. Bu od, was in favor of the County Road D option. Janet Mercer, 3029 Standridge Place, Maplewood, was against the McKnight Road/Lydia Avenue option. Sandy Letourneau, 3044 Bellaire Avenue, Maplewood, was against the trail going on Bellaire Avenue. She asked about the possibility of the trail running along the west side of McKnight Road. Bill Schweigert, 3051 Bellaire Avenue, Maplewood, stated that since Lydia Avenue is an extra wide street it should be considered as the number one option; he felt that it was also safer along Lydia Avenue. Art Strobel, 3036 Bellaire Avenue, Maplewood, asked if it was feasible to have the trail on County Road D going through the north area of Joy Park. 2 Judy Mcintyre, 3037 Standridge Place, Maplewood, was concerned about McKnight Road and the pond in that area; it would be a safety issue because the area is not fenced. Ann Grevelle, 3030 Lake St., Maplewood, believed that Lydia Avenue would be the best route for the trail and was also more cost effective. Willis Roberson, 2424 Lydia Avenue, Maplewood, was concerned about the trail going on the south side of Lydia Avenue. He asked about the trail going up the north side of Lydia Avenue. Vahey Tateosian, 2995 Bartelmy Lane, Maplewood, believed ther for a bike path on the street, and he also thought they could cons' Ron Sellie, 3028 Bellaire Avenue, Maplewood, was absolutely op Avenue. He also asked about running the trail up the north side lIaire Jim Henk, 3035 Bellaire Avenue, Maplewood was in Tony McEnroth, 3012 Bellaire Avenue, Maplewood, Ordell Vanovebeke, 3015 Bellaire Avenue. Maplewo County Road D. He also asked about usi the feasibility of a trail on g trail on Lydia Avenue. Carol Mason Sherrill, Chair of the Environ concerned about the trails in Maplewood to walk/bike on. ission of Maplewood was being pleasant to look at and Road D/Bellaire Avenue option. Ch h either option; he thought the best route was Co Co biki with the comments about landscaping along the trail, and making esthetically pleasing. He was in favor of the Lydia Avenue route. Commissioner Christianson thought 12 feet was too wide for a trail. He said there was more open space along County Road D, and that trees could be planted along road. He said if the trail goes on Lydia Avenue, it should be an eight foot trail, with buffers between the curb and the trail. Commissioner Mackey said she could visualize both options for the trail, however tended to be more practical and liked the least expensive option, which was Lydia Avenue. She was in favor of trees and shrubs as buffers. Commissioner Sonnek preferred the Lydia Avenue alignment. She also asked whether the trail could run along the north side of Lydia Avenue. 3 Community Development and Parks Director Konewko stated they would move forward with plans for an eight foot trail and three to four feet of green space. Commissioner Mackey stated wide trails were great, however not at the expense of a buffer. He asked about natural landscaping which could be self-maintained. He also asked about the trail going on the west side of McKnight Road. Chair Fischer summarized all the comments and stated the decision has been made to build the trail along McKnight Road to Lydia Avenue. It would be an eight to nine foot trail with three feet of a grassy or natural area as a buffer. Chair Fischer said minutes from the last meeting wer make corrections. side of ydia il which will to by a vote of Chair Fischer made a motion to move forward with continuing the McKnight Road to Lydia Avenue, crossing Lydia Avenue and cont Avenue. The trail would be nine feet wide with a buffer of three f be non-asphalt, with and screening problems addressed. Comm' approve the motion, with Commissioner Christianson seven to one, with one commissioner voting against. 7. APPROVAL OF MINUTES On page one there was a question about accused of being "open minded" in the p to the audio of the inko said she had been aubman said he would listen On page two, Chair Binko. The letter to was regarding a se this person incorre On sen sent to former Commissioner ommission the previous year and rn that Ms. Binko had accused sent to the entire commission. a number of people about this issue, and was she had written in the e-mail". On wa hav 'ng sentence to read: "Commissioner Schmidt d by the City Council for commission seats ing televised interviews before their interview". Ch ava the the overhead projector screens. Commissioner Brannon's comment about informational materials ommissioner Brannon had meant to say that overhead screens reflect ngs, so if there aren't enough handouts, the information is available on Commissioner Sonnek had a clarification regarding the majority of seats on a commission. She had asked if this meant the majority of seats on the commission or the majority of "filled" seats on the commission. Commissioner Fischer said a quorum is the majority of commissioners that are present at a meeting. Commissioner Sonnek's question should read: "If a commission has nine commissioner seats, is a quorum four or five members when there are seven commissioners at a meeting". 4 On page five, Natural Resources Coordinator Gaynor said the Capstone Project occurred after the Comprehensive Plan was implemented. Chair Fischer said it should be amended to read "the suggestions would be incorporated after the Comprehensive Plan was being "drafted", not implemented. On page six, Chair Fischer said the sentence "there are large unused areas of parks; if these parks are restored ten years from now there may need to make these spaces active again". He said it should say "if we restore areas in active parks to more native areas, it should be noted that these parks are still areas for future active recreation if needed". Chair Fischer said the sentence regarding neighborhood service areas read "the document said residents should be within a half mile of an active or passive park which is' It should state "should be within a half mile of an active or passive park whi chair, I regarding Commissioner Craig Brannon was called Commissioner "Bruce B "Bruce Roman" and Commissioner "Craig Brannon". Chair Fischer wanted to correct a sentence on page t would bring copies of the e-mails to the meetings so concerns about violation of the Open Meeting Law". Commissioner Peterson made a motion to approve t Brannon. The motion carried with two a econded by Commissioner nd Mackey. 8. Natural Resouces C would speak tonight r for the city. She stated they nstruction project near County Connor Court, Demont Avenue, Brooks Court, C II of Forest Street. In 1985 there wer 003, the neighborhood was established and add Lake Preserve. Mr. Love presented storm water trea surface that will be removed and replaced. He sai er to be infiltrated. The soils in this area are hea d to treat the water with filtration; which is water with lean water into the storm sewer system. When doing this they have to tr ater. To accommodate this, they are proposing two treatment areas; one ounty Road C, there is currently a rain garden that exists in this area, ho due to heavy clay soils. They are proposing to build a filtration basin with take care of approximately half of the water. Mr. Love proceeded to discuss the area at the south end of Forest Street where Spoon Lake Preserve is. Currently a small portion of Forest Street runs off the street and has eroded into a gully. They are proposing to create a filtration basin at the end of the road. They would shorten the end of the road to remove pervious area that is not being used. There would be a filtration area, and they would realign a portion of the existing trail. This would allow them to treat the other half of the water quality. One of the problems in projects like this is water treatment in an area already developed. They are looking at ways of incorporating this into the preserve so it is not a flat basin: and replanting the area with trees. Mr. Love said they are unable to construct the basin at the south end of Forest Street to meet the Watershed requirements. Any volume they do not treat they have to pay into a storm water impact fund, which is approximately $70,000. They would have to account for the volume they didn't treat and make those areas even larger. 5 The commissioners had questions about the information reported and Natural Resources Coordinator Gaynor and Mr. Love attempted to answer their questions. Naturai Resources Coordinator Gaynor said they have been hesitant about infiltrating preserves. She explained infiltration systems at preserves. She said it has brought diversity to the areas and they were able to grow different species of plants in these basins. At Spoon Lake, there are many trees, so they are looking at tree removal. They examined the impact of removing trees on this site. She explained how Mapiewood defines a significant tree. Significant trees are hardwoods over six inches, and softwoods over twelve inches in diameter. Some softwoods are cottonwoods, box elder, and silver maple. The basin is approximately 8,000 square feet; and there would be about a half t area, they would remove twenty-five significant trees. They also have to 100 e preserve. There are some nice canopy trees in the area; however the shrub , and almost no ground cover. She said it would be a worthwhile project if they They are interested in creating something different in the entry way to the which would connect with the street. They would also add t erosion. They asked the Watershed District if they would be t if they created something interesting in the area. There are in partnering with us; the city could apply for a grant if t The commissioners came forward with questions. N attempted to answer their questions and . Love and Natural uncil on Monday, March 23, There were other concerns, questions an Resources Coordinator Gaynor. He said 2009. If it was appr Natural Resources these are areas that wanted to hear the c Chair Fischer said if street reconstruction project; d a recommendation tonight; they n felt biindsided about this issue. nd the next City Council meeting. how the commission felt about the project. He as something that should go to the uld happen. Natural Resources Coordinator nmental and Natural Resources Commission's April. The question was why the commission was informed so late in rces Coordinator Gaynor said the council wasn't able to bring the I now. Co ted the project, and she thought city staff did an excellent job of protecting the Maplewood environment. One of the commissioners thought that the project would enhance the ecological aspects of the preserves. Mr. Nephew said this issue will be on the Consent Agenda for the next City Council meeting. Chair Fischer said because of the lateness of the hour, he would table the Lion's Park Survey Update agenda item. He distributed an item to the commission to review and comment on. He said he had an opportunity to discuss Fish Creek and CoPar land with two representatives from the area. He had met with Representative Slawik and Senator Wiger. Maplewood is requesting $2.4 to $2.6 million to purchase this parcel of land. Monies would be coming from the constitutional amendment that was passed this fall. He would continue to be involved with this project as long as necessary. 6 Commissioner Peterson asked about forming or joining a taskforce on greenways with the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission. Natural Resources Coordinator Gaynor said the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission has a taskforce on protecting the greenways, and she said it would be perfectly acceptable to have the Parks and Recreation Commission involved with this. Chair Fischer stated Commissioner Peterson is appointed and will be invited to the next meeting in April, 2009. 9. NEW BUSINESS - MAPLEWOOD PARKS CLEANUP Commissioner Maas had a suggestion about this item. He said each park could have someone checking in volunteers; recording their names and where they are from. They what residents prefer to have as amenities in parks. He said they center to donate small plants or seedlings to give to residents for having music, perhaps a local band, making it more fun to pick up Gaynor said the Nature Center had a kit including snacks and eve Natural Resources Coordinator Gaynor said this is a Maplewood Monthly. egarding r garden ested rdinator last year. the April 10. COMMISSIONER PRESENTATIO Commissioner Brannon reported a soccer tournamen the tournament is Jim Taylor from the Uni and Jim Taylor assured Commissioner Br tournament. 17,2009. The coordinator for reation Manager Taubman s were dry before starting the Commissioner Chris' Maplewood Room a Recreation meeting. April 151 at 7:00 p.m. at " for the next Parks and 11. nd this item would proceed with the park until next year, 2010. Parks and Recreation sion members relating to dog parks. Ch car urn the meeting, seconded by Commissioner Sonnek. The motion meeting was adjourned at 11:12 p.m. 7 CITY OF MAPLEWOOD PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION April 15, 2009 - DRAFT 7:00 p.m. COUNCIL CHAMBERS - MAPLEWOOD CITY HALL 1830 COUNTY ROAD BEAST 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Fischer indicated seven out of nine commissioners were pr 2. ROLL CALL Commissioners Chair Peter Fischer Commissioner Craig Brannon Commissioner Don Christianson Commissioner Dan Maas Commissioner Mary Mackay Commissioner Carolyn Pete Commissioner Bruce Roma Commissioner Therese So om missioner Brannon made a motion to carried by a unanimous vote. Co ect a sentence regarding the dog park subcommittee. She did not rec minutes referred to entitled "The Barking Dog". She said the minutes sho on the American Kennel Club website, entitled "Establishing a Dog Park in Your Community". She also wanted to add that she was successful in checking out a book at a library, the only library in the country that has the book Commissioner Roman referred to. She will order this book from the library once more. Commissioner Roman referred to the paragraph about asking commissioners to serve on the subcommittee. He also said that "any interested citizens could serve on the subcommittee" should be added. Regarding the sentence stating that Commissioner Peterson was nominated for the position of Chair; the minutes should state that she withdrew her nomination. Chair Fischer asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Commissioner Roman made a motion to approve, seconded by Commissioner Brannon. The minutes were approved, with one abstention. 1 5. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS There were no visitor presentations. 6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. Spoon Lake Preserve/Kohlman Park Rainwater Garden Chair Fischer said the discussion tonight would focus on the street reconstruction project at Spoon Lake Preserve. Manager Doug Taubman said Civil Engineer Steve Love was pre reconstruction project currently planned near County Road C and this project, and it has been brought before the Environmental an current plan is to incorporate an infiltration basin into the natural s hire an independent landscaper to fit this plan in with of planting the entire basin with trees and natural pia the area and the history and background of the proje underground, removing sand and sediment before it there would be culverts underground. The plan woul also be constructing a soft surface trail; with material Park, they are looking at the existing rain treatment basin in this area. Staff has be developing the landscaping plans. treet n studying n. The osing to ing at ways e more of rest Street They will for trail use. At Kohlman a landscape area there, and a lopment Department on Mr. Love opened the Love answered the commission support the motion was see ners asked questions and Mr. e a motion to move that the ral Resources Commission, and by a unanimous vote. een received. He said the survey was sent to mailed to some Oakdale residents. Most of the cks of the park. He stated this is an aging olds with an individual over the age of sixty-four. r the age of eighteen, and some of the children were grandchildren. to see the park updated so their grandchildren could use it. They ular basis; however they would use it if it was redeveloped. The amenity ren's play equipment. They said the current equipment is dangerous, ina ond most requested amenity was a picnic shelter and picnic area with grills. Manager Taubman said he attempted to contact the Lion's Club, however has not heard from them as yet. He said they may be interested in contributing to a picnic area shelter. Walking trails were important to the residents, as well as improved landscaping; rain gardens, and more trees and shrubs. T-ball and little league ball fields were another of the amenities that residents suggested. The question regarding what the residents liked best about the park were playgrounds and close proximity to their homes. The question regarding what the residents liked least about the park were outdated playground equipment and. needed improvements to the grounds, such as a skating/hockey rink and more lighting. In general, people were supportive of redeveloping the park. 2 The commissioners commented about the survey and amenities that were requested for the park. Manager Taubman said it is an aging neighborhood which will soon change over to a different population group, and so playgrounds and ball fields are important. Commissioner Christianson commented that ball fields take up much area. Manager Taubman said they are planning a smaller field; perhaps a T-ball or elementary age field. Chair Fischer said this survey was a good start in evaluating the park. The city will have additional meetings regarding Lions Park and neighbors would get involved at some point with plans and processes. Chair Fischer asked if there was a motion to accept the survey and move ahead with the park planning process for Lions Park. Commissioner Roman made a motion to move ahead, seconded by Commissioner Brannon. The motion carried unanimously. Chair Fischer and Manager Taubman distributed copies to the co commission submits this report each year to the City Council. Ch commission members. He said they would go over the oals for There were comments and questions from the comm Konewko clarified some points and answered some Fischer asked for a motion to approve the report and made a motion to approve, seconded by Commissio c. Parks And Recreation Commission Annual 7. NEW BUSINESS Director Konewko spoke about the issue requesting funding j approved last year b would be split betw approved on April 7 include an early ap because of the imp fun the res Ma city Fls (Ma sen proj ear. Silver Lake is , 00. This project was t. The cost for the treatment plewood. This amount was mmission. The treatment will n milfoil was discontinued nding that the city provide with the same conditions that were attached to ission for questions. The commission had elopment Director Konewko agreed that re not responsible for this project; however the lake was everyone's responsibility. Chair e the staffs recommendation of $8,250 to treat Silver Lake ake a comment about the 'tone" of the funding request letter that was Schmidt made a motion to approve to proceed with funding for this Maas. The motion carried by a vote of seven to one. 8. COMMISSIONER PRESENTATIONS a. Fish Creek Update Chair Fischer stated several bills were introduced into the House and one into the Senate regarding this issue. He said $ 2.4 million dollars was appropriated for 201 0 for Maplewood to acquire land within the Fish Creek Natural Greenway. This item had a hearing on Tuesday March 23, 2009. Community Development and Parks Director Konewko, City Council member John Nephew, and Chair Peter Fischer were present at the hearing. There were letters of support, and they were allowed ten minutes to submit their presentation. There were some questions from the Legislature, and it was identified as a potential archeological site with 3 historical significance that should not be disturbed. The money that would be used would become a constitutional amendment divided into different parts. However, Chair Fischer said they had a problem later that day in that the mayor of Maplewood sent a letter to the Legislature that took "some steam" out of the sale. This letter had been sent to a Republican in the Legislature, and the mayor accused the Parks and Recreation Commission of trying to secure bailout for Co Par, who owns the property. Chair Fischer reported that nothing would transpire with this issue now; because there was concern expressed by the mayor about who actually owns the land. Chair Fischer stated that the city is only trying to obtain money to buy the land, and now it will have to wait for the next legislative session. In terms of the money needed to purchase the land, the letter also took issue with this, and the mayor was concerned about Chair Fischer not supporting her (Mayor Longrie's) conservation easement policies. The City Council has approved a resolution to continue efforts at Fish Creek, however, and the ma ion. The bills will automatically carry into the next fiscal year. So a, Subcommittee Reports 1. Dog Park Commissioner Roman said they have had three mee dog parks as possible, especially if there is going to pros and cons of having a dog park in Maplewood. Some of the pros: . . . . ed rcise their companions Th issioners to the subcommittee with Commissioner Roman addressing the questions. Commissioner Roman reported that they investigated different sizes of dog parks. There are standard sizes that are used throughout the country. There are four different categories; mini or seasonal parks, very small; neighborhood parks, between Y, and three acres; community parks, three to eight acres, and regional parks eight plus acres. The committee will tour possible sites with their group and anyone else that would like to attend. They plan to meet in the parking lot of City Hall at 6:00 p.m. on May 6, 2009. They will visit nine sites and will discuss the sites afterwards. Commissioner Roman said they discussed doing a survey; however they would wait until they toured the sites. The sites to be considered are Western Hills, Sherwood, Gloster, Flicek, Kohlman, Four Seasons, Hillside, Joy and Harvest parks. Chair Fischer asked if they could have the notes from the meetings and incorporate them with the commission meeting notes. 4 9. STAFF PRESENTATIONS a. Community Gardens Manager Taubman said although he is not directly involved with this process; he receives feedback from the staff working on this project. He said there were two factions regarding community gardens; a community group and the city. About a month ago the city decided not to pursue a garden this year because of costs and time frames. There has been a community group that is pursuing community gardens on their own. . They are looking at a number of spaces throughout the city. The city will eventually pursue a long term resolution to community gardens. Manager Taubman reported some of the history of community gardens and the problems associated with them. Questions were asked and answered by staff. A discussion ensued. Ramsey County Farm and Gladstone Senior Center wer ity groups were considering for their gardens. Commissioner Maas suggest city could work together on community gardens in the future. b. Legacy Tot Lot Manager Taubman said the City Council will meet on process, developing plans for Legacy Park. The pro the south side of the trail and runs down to the pond inspect the area and ask for the commission's input lanning y Park at affwill c. Lake Link Trails Manager Taubman said they are looking ing funding on this project. Chair Fischer said t inspect all the parks ubman said he had plans to tainers in parks. They are . The city would initiate this program at nvironmental and Natural Resources Commission Co Sat istered for a clean-up group for Legacy Park Sculpture area on Co ign up and help in that park as well. Commissioner Mackay said her plan was to go to the park nearby her home, which is Playcrest. She thought there were many people that would do that as well. Commissioner Sonnek said if they officially signed up at the Maplewood Nature Center, it would count as a volunteer project. Commissioner Schmidt said due to the recent attacks of violence on Lake Phalen, she was inquiring whether the commission could discuss additional lighting around that part of the lake on the Maplewood side. Chair Fischer said he would request to have this item added to the next meeting agenda. Manager 5 Taubman said he would bring a report on this to the next meeting. Commissioner Sonnek asked if they could talk to police about safety tips or information that Maplewood could use in prevention. Chair Fischer asked if they wanted a police representative at their next meeting. Commissioner Schmidt said that patrol activity was recently increased dramatically at Phalen Lake. Commissioner Roman asked about a Neighborhood Park Watch in Maplewood. Chair Fischer said there was one in the past, and then it was changed to a citizen patrol in the parks. Commissioner Christianson said they had, in a past meeting, a representative from the police department come and report how many calls they had regarding problems in the parks. He reported that he could not help with the Maplewood parks c1ea He mentioned that North St. Paul is selling advertising at McKnig advertising for sale, and proceeds go towards improvements and suggested Maplewood could do that at Goodrich Pa used for area businesses to perhaps bring revenue t Commissioner Maas asked about the area near Phal Chair Fischer said this space was scheduled for dev for continuation of the trail system; however this will Chair Fischer said one of the Environmen company in the eastern United States tha if Parks Manager Taubman could look int He said he would lik' . when they discuss t ners reported there is a round equipment. He asked ission for their next meeting. ission to their meetings 11. hristianson made a motion to carried by a unanimous vote. 6 AGENDA REPORT TO: FROM: SUBJECT: DATE: Parks and Recreation Commission Doug Taubman, Parks Manager Parks and Recreation Commission Annnal Report May 20, 2009 Each year, on behalf of the Parks and Recreation Commission, the commission chair prepares an annual report for city couuci1 approval. Chair Fisher presented this report to the commission on April 15, 2009. At this meeting the commission approved the anuual report for submission to the city council. The city couucil subsequently approved the Parks and Recreation Commission annual report at the April 27, 2009. The council approved annual report is included in your May 20, 2009 commission packet. No action is required of the commission. April 15, 2009 Dear Mayor and Council Members, In compliance with Article II, Section 21.20 of the Maplewood city ordinance, the Maplewood Parks and Recreation Commission hereby submits its 2008 annual report and 2009 activity plan. We reviewed the accomplishments of the past year and discussed the various programs and activities we wish to pursue in the coming year. Our continuing goal is promoting city parks, open space, community center, quality inclusive recreational programming and maintaining a quality park system geared to the continually changing demographics of our community. The year of 2008 presented the Commission a number of opportunities. The biggest was rewriting the parks section of the proposed Comprehensive Plan. Several of the commissioners served on the Parks Trails and Open Space Task Force. Several regular Commission meetings were also needed to involve the whole Commission in the formation of the draft parks plan. This resulted in the Commission coming up with a final plan that will have a Trail System with almost as many miles as we have in streets. The plan also includes a section addressing no net loss of Neighborhood Preserves and addressed the parks need issues in the area of Maplewood south of Carver. The final plan may not be what each local area of Maplewood might want. The plan, approved by the Commission, is balanced to address neighborhood needs while balancing the needs of the entire City. During the past year we were grateful to the City Council for the joint meeting we had in August to address several issues. We found it very informative. A complete summary of our 2008 goals and accomplishments are attached to this report. 2009 goals include several items from 2008 that we will continue to pursue along with several new goals. The entire goal iist is attached to this letter. We appreciate that a Parks Manager position was established for this year. We realize that the Maplewood Parks system and programs will be seeing the loss of two key personnel at the end of the year. Pauline Staples and Doug Taubman, both who have many years of experience and expertise that has well served the City well, especially over the past several years. We are concerned about the loss of this experience and how it may impact the system in the future. The Parks and Recreation Commission would be happy to meet with the City Council to address any park issues. Respectfully submitted, Peter M. Fischer, Chairperson Bruce Roman, Vice Chair Craig Brannon, Commissioner Donald Christianson, Commissioner Daniel Mass, Commissioner Mary Mackey, Commissioner Carolyn Peterson, Commissioner Kim Schmidt, Commissioner Therese Sonnek, Commissioner Parks and Recreation in Maplewood is a large area covering trails, active parks, passive parks, open spaces, indoor parks (community centers) and greenways. In addition it covers recreational programming that range from active athletics to drama on stage to neighborhood events that help tie our city together. The Maplewood Parks and Recreation Commission provides advise and recommendations in ali of these areas plus we are charged with the following duties: Formulate polices for approval by the city council. Advise the council and manager as to the minimum qualifications for the position of director of parks and recreation. Aid in coordinating the park and recreation services with the programs of other governmental agencies and organizations. Interpret the polices and functions of the park and recreation department to the public. Make periodic inventories of recreation and park services that exist or may be needed and interpret the needs of the public to the city council and the director of parks. Recommend for adoption standards on land acquisition, facility development, program and financial support. The Following served on the Parks Commission in 2008 Peter M. Fischer, Chairperson Bruce Roman, Vice Chair Donald Christianson, Commissioner Julie Binko, Commissioner Craig Brannon, Commissioner Kim Schmidt, Commissioner Carolyn Peterson, Commissioner Therese Sonnek, Commissioner Gaoly Yang, Commissioner Park and Recreation 2008 Goals 1. Finish reviewing and updating the parks comprehensive plan with development of a park plan for the area south of Carver. Item accomplished, the section has been submitted as part of the final report going to the City Council. 2. Provide recommendations on development of park assets in the Gladstone redevelopment area. This goal remains on hold until redevelopment starts in the Gladstone area. And will carry over to 2009. 3. Start the park planning process for Lions Park. This Goal has been accomplished. Lions Park will still be a future goal 2009 as the redevelopment planning is finished and progresses toward reconstruction. 4. Provide input and feedback on programming, marketing, etc. for the community center. During the past year this was something that was more of staff telling us about upcoming events. 5. Recommend minimum requirements for a new parks director. The Parks Director Position was not reestablished this past year. The City did establish a "Parks Manager" position at year end. 6. Develop new parks programs to bring diverse communities together and to continue to provide opportunities for our parks and recreations system to be the fabric that brings our geographicaliy chalienged community together. There was not enough time this past year for this issue. As a step to working in a broader basis a goal for 2009 will be to work with other groups and commission to address the needs of the community. 7. Advise on capital improvement projects at Joy Park and for the Beaver Creek Trial corridor. Time was spent addressing Joy Park and the renovation project is underway. The Beaver Creek Trail project did not involve much Commission time, 8. Continue ongoing education of commissioners on parks issues. This was an ongoing process and will remain an ongoing process as new Commissioners join and new issues in Parks surface. 9. Remain committed to having the City provide 24 hour removal of graffiti in parks. This is a goal that the City has continued to be committed to. 10. Work to develop a no net loss of park land policy for the city. Incorporated into the new Parks Comprehensive Plan is a policy that addresses Open Space as no net loss. Park land was not specifically addressed. It was felt that the current comprehensive pan provides the needed protection to parks. Any change in park land use would require a 4 / 5ths vote by the City Council, to change the Comprehensive Plan, to allow other use besides the designated park use. The real issue is the ability of the City to invest and reinvest in it's Parks System. The only time that park land was let go by the City, for development, involved a site that had no investment by the City and with tight resources no foreseeable investment to address the run down site. The site was so poor, in an area with other park resources, only one person in the entire neighborhood objected to the site being developed into homes. Several additional items were added during 2008. Completing the Lakes Links trail project in North Maplewood. The Commission started looking at the two gaps in the trail. One from McKnight to Bellaire and the other was around Maplewood Mall. The Commission started the review process in 2008 and should finish it's work in 2009. The proposed development of Gethsemane Park came forward and consumed time as the Commission decided if the park should be purchased or allowed to be developed. The final purchase of part of the site for a City Park is awaiting for the final details to be worked out before the parks Commission gives it's final recommendation to the Council. Started addressing the tot lot park in Legacy Village. Started a Task Force to exam and address the needs of a possible Dog Park in North Maplewood. Park and Recreation Commission Goals for 2009 1. Provide recommendations on development of park assets in the Gladstone redevelopment area. 2. Continue the park redevelopment process at Lions Park 3. To review the relationship and involvement between the Parks Commission and the Maplewood Community Center. 4.To work with other groups and commission on the Sustainable Maplewood report. 5. To finalize routes on the two last segments of the Lakes Links Trail. 6. Continue the park planning and naming process for the tot lot park in Legacy Village. 7. Continue work on the need for a dog park in Maplewood. 8. Finalize the recommendation on the purchase of land for a Gethsemane Park and pass it forward to the City Council. 9. Involvement with the development of community gardens. 10. Review long term park funding for redevelopment and restoration of Parks. Trails and Open Spaces. 11. Receive more feedback from staff and other partner groups (Open Space Task Force, Friends of Maplewood Nature, MAA, etc.) 12. Review of Greenways for possible opportunities for parks and opens spaces, i.e. Fish Creek, Beaver lake, etc. MEMORANDUM DATE: Parks Commission Shann Finwall, AICP. Environmental Planner and Virginia Gaynor, Natural Resources Coordinator Park Commission Appointment to the Fish Creek Natural Area Greenway Commission (ad-hoc) May 12, 2009 TO: FROM: SUBJECT: INTRODUCTION On May 11, 2009, the city council authorized the formation of an ad-hoc commission to explore land protection options for Fish Creek Natural Area Greenway (Attachment 1). DISCUSSION Fish Creek Natural Area Greenway is vulnerable to development due to the amount of undeveloped land in private ownership. The city council established the ad-hoc commission to explore funding options for protecting land in the Fish Creek Natural Area Greenway. The ad-hoc commission will include the following: Purpose of Commission 1. Develop recommendations and priorities for protecting natural lands in the Fish Creek Natural Area Greenway, including: a. Acquisition of private land; b. Conservation easements on private lands; c. Conservation design options for properties that want to develop; d. Funding options. 2. Identify issues and opportunities for passive recreation in Fish Creek Natural Area Greenway and develop recommendations for passive recreation that does not degrade the natural resources in the greenway. Participants: 1 Park commissioner appointed by the full commission 1 Environment and Natural Resources commissioner appointed by the full commission 1 Cou nty staff 1 Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District staff 1 City staff 1 Representative from Friends of Maplewood Nature (must reside in Maplewood) Consulting experts (ex-officio): 1. Dr. Kim Chapman, Applied Ecological Services 2. Trust for Public Land 3. Minnesota Land Trust 4. National Park Service 5. DNR Metro Greenways 5. Others as needed Participant Roles 1. A chairperson will be appointed to run the meetings (not city staff). 2. A city staff person will provide administrative support for the group. The city staff person will also be an active participant in meetings. Time Frame for Work Complete recommendations by December 30,2009. Meetings 1. The commission shall meet one to two times per month. 2. Meetings shall begin in June 2009. 3. All meetings shall be open to the public. 4. Meetings shall be posted in advance. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Parks Commission appoint one commissioner to serve on the Fish Creek Natural Area Greenway ad-hoc commission. Since the ad-hoc commission will include outside agencies, staff recommends that the commissioner appointed have availability for some daytime meetings. Attachments: 1. Map of Natural Area Greenways in south MapJewood 2 .,,....1....... ~T~H."" Oakdale Maplewood Natural Area Greenways ~ , ~