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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-15-11 PTRC Chair: Steve Scott (exp.2011) I't 1245 W. Highway 96 Committee Members: �—AVEN HILLS Arden Hills, MN 55112 Cindy Garretson(exp.2011) 651.792.7800 fikhil parks Trails and www.ci.arden-hills.mn.us Iffilli-huck Michaelson(exp.2011) > , Nancy O'Malley(exp.2011) JohnPeck(exp.2013) Recreation Committee Harold Petersen(exp.2013) Rich Straumann(exp.2013) February 15, 2011 Council Liaison: 6:30 p.m. Ed Werner Arden Hills City Hall City Vision A strong community that values our unique environment, our fiscal soundness, and our tradition as a desirable city in which to live, work, and play. Agenda **All members should bring their P & R Facility Inventory Manual for reference Call to Order 1. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA 2. MINUTES A. January 11, 2011 Regular Meeting 3. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. 2011 Goal Approval B. Facility Fee Discussion i 46 C. Valentine Park Improvement Process D. Other Unfinished Business 4. NEW BUSINESS A. PTRC/Council Joint Work Session Agenda B. Other New Business 5. REPORTS A. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Report B. City Council Report 6. NEXT MEETING A. Monday, March 21st—Council/PTRC Joint Work Session A quorum of the City Council may be present at this meeting. Agenda Item 2A: Minutes for Approval: January 11, 2011 .T.- RpENHILLS Draft CITY OF ARDEN HILLS PARKS, TRAILS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING TUESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2011 ARDEN HILLS CITY HALL CALL MEETING TO ORDER Chair Scott called the January 11, 2011, meeting of the Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committee to order at 6:35 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Steve Scott, Committee Members John Peck, Phil Kramlinger, Harold Petersen, Chuck Michaelson, Nancy O'Malley, Rich Straumann, and Cindy Garretson. OTHERS PRESENT: Park and Recreation Manager Michelle Olson and former Committee Member Donald Messerly. ABSENT: Council Liaison David Grant and Committee Member Nancy O'Malley 1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION: Committee Member Straumann motioned to approve the agenda as presented and Committee Member Peck seconded. The motion carried unanimously. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES December 21, 2010 Committee Member Petersen asked that the 2 sentence on p a g e 2 be reworded to read", it will not be able to drain." Committee Chair Scott asked the words "the project" be added to the 1 sentence on page 6 so the sentence reads "Mn/DOT will be taking the project to an Arbitration Committee. MOTION: Committee Member Garretson motioned to approve the December 21, 2010, minutes as amended seconded by Committee Member Straumann. The motion carried unanimously. 3. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. 2011 Goal Setting/Work Plan Approval Ms. Olson informed she incorporated the suggestions from the previous meeting into the goals /Work Plan for 2011. Also, as discussed at the last meeting, she has now categorized the goals either as "ongoing" goals or as "as needed" goals. Ms. Olson asked the committee if there were any additional edits they would like made to the 2011 goals. She has asked the Communications Committee to place an article in the Newsletter about how to find maps online where to find information about the parks in the Rec Guide and on the website. Committee Member Peck asked if there are plans to let the community know about the opening of the CP Rail path. Ms. Olson indicated there was an article in the Newsletter. Parks, Trails Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes January 11, 2011 Page 2 Ms. Olson indicated that a few members of the Council have expressed interest in some trail signage in residential areas where it is difficult for people to determine where the trail leads to or if it even continues. She reiterated that at a prior meeting the committee had discussed the possibility of installing some kiosks. Committee Member Kramlinger mentioned a product his neighbor's company produces that they may want to look at. Ms. Olson asked Committee Member Kramlinger to get her contact information for his neighbor so she could discuss pricing. He indicated he believed the cost was $20 per sign and a $10 set up charge. Ms. Olson asked if the signs would be able to be cleaned if vandalized. Committee Member Peck indicated they may be able to put a clear finish over the signs so they are easier to clean. Ms. Olson stated the City Council may only want signs placed at the trails where they are most needed. Committee Member Peck suggested the committee prioritize where they would like the signage. Discussion ensued on the signage. Ms. Olson indicated she would like a recommendation from the committee on the goals for 2011. The committee indicated they would like more time to review and bring back at the next meeting. It was agreed to have the 2011 goals put back on as an agenda item in February. B. CP Rail Mural Discussion Ms. Olson provided the committee with photos of the graffiti that someone painted on the CP rail wall. Ms. Olson indicated she had talked to Mr. Hames about the graffiti and has contacted Ramsey County to see if they would be able to track the responsible party. She indicated the graffiti will be painted over. She did talk to Mr. Hames about cost for paint and supplies and he felt it would probably be under $1,500 but he had concerns that the graffiti artist may repaint the wall even after the mural is finished. He shared thoughts that the committee may be putting a lot of work into this and then may have it vandalized. His suggestion was that the PTRC should wait one year before holding the contest. She asked for the committee's opinion on whether they wanted to proceed with the mural contest at the present time. Committee Chair Scott questioned whether the committee had discussed any organic solutions like vines and was wondering if that would be something they may want to consider. The committee agreed this is something they could consider in the future. Ms. Olson indicated Council's concern was about cost and graffiti and if there is a way to graffiti -proof the mural. Ms. Olson informed the members that she has not yet spoken to the railroad as she was waiting for Council approval. Discussion ensued regarding the mural and on how they should proceed. It was also discussed that they may want to look at some timed or solar lighting for that area since it is very dark. Ms. Olson stated she would like to bring a recommendation to Council in March on whether to proceed with the contest and also regarding the lighting. The committee decided to table the mural contest until a future date. MOTION: Committee Member Peck motioned to table the CP rail mural seconded by Committee Member Petersen. The motioned carried unanimously. Parks, Trails Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes January 11, 2011 Page 3 C. Facility Fee Discussion Ms. Olson reported that she did contact the soccer and basketball associations to let them know the City is considering charging fees and asked for their input on whether they would prefer giving an annual donation or would rather pay user fees. She indicated she heard back from the baseball association and they mentioned a lot of the other cities are charging fees and that this ultimately transfers to their users in the form of increased charges. They also asked if the City could wait until 2012 before charging so they can put in their budget for next year. Ms. Olson stated the committee would need to decide whether this should be pursued or not, recommend to Council, and then inform the associations this summer so they have enough time to budget for the following year. She mentioned at this time adults and Bethel ice rink use is something that is charged for and they could also instill an adult practice intramural fee for the use of softball and soccer fields to bring in some revenue. Ms. Olson mentioned one question that came up at a Council work session was whether the same fees should be charged for each park, regardless of field size. Ms. Olson asked the committee for their input regarding the fees. Committee Member Garretson suggested they charge differently depending on whether it is a Community Park or a Neighborhood Park. Committee Member Peck asked Ms. Olson what she felt the Council was expecting in terms of a recommendation. Ms. Olson indicated that when irrigation was installed at Cummings, a few Council Members inquired if the City should charge. Committee Member Peck questioned if there was any way to distinguish between resident and non resident use of fields. Ms. Olson stated that it is based on an honor system as to if the permit holder is a resident. It doesn't seem to be an issue at this point. Committee Chair Scott asked about the City's liability for the employees that are using the fields during the lunch hour. Ms. Olson stated the City does have liability insurance for any injuries that may occur. D. Other Unfinished Business None 4. NEW BUSINESS A. Hazelnut Park Land Purchase Ms. Olson indicated the City is moving forward on the purchase of land from Trinity Lutheran Church and provided an aerial photo of that parcel. The church has agreed to a Parks, Trails Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes January 11, 2011 Page 4 $3 per square foot price which will come to around $210,000 for the 70,000 square foot parcel. Ms. Olson stated that Attorney Filla is currently working on a purchase agreement and the deed will include a life -time shared parking clause even if the church sells the remainder of their land. She mentioned that there also is a maintenance agreement where the City is responsible for partial maintenance of the parking lot which includes sweeping and filling of potholes. Ms. Olson asked the members if they had any concerns with the plat. Chair Peck asked how price was determined and whether an appraiser will appraise the land. Ms. Olson indicated they did have an appraisal done and it came in much higher because at that time it was being assessed as land that could be developed as opposed to park land. Committee Chair Scott indicated he would like to see the document that shows what parking lot maintenance items the City is responsible for. Ms. Olson indicated the agreement is in the process of being revised because of some grey areas and she will e -mail the revised version to the members. B. 2011 Committee Calendar Ms. Olson reviewed the committee calendar indicated she included the Tony Schmidt Regional Park Earth Day Cleanup Event on April 16 and the Buckthorn Removal Day on October 29. Ms. Olson mentioned the buckthorn cleanup will focus on Crepeau Park per Council's recommendation. Also, included on the calendar is the Park Tour on June 21 and at some point she will also add a Trail Tour. Ms. Olson mentioned that since they are scheduled to meet with Council March 21, she did not feel it necessary to also have their regular Tuesday meeting in March. C. Other New Business Ms. Olson indicated that Terry Maurer will be in charge of Valentine Park and will inform the committee on how things will move forward in regards to park improvements and on the drainage issue. Mr. Maurer will be meeting with the Council on January 31 and at that time will give his recommendation on the drainage and park improvement issues. 5. REPORTS A. Public Works /Parks and Recreation Report Ms. Olson indicated that the new Council members have been sworn in. Ed Werner was elected for a 1 -year term, David Grant has been appointed Mayor, and Fran Holmes was re- elected for another trm. Parks, Trails Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes January 11, 2011 Page 5 Interviews for the fourth Council member have been set and the City hopes to have a Council member appointed by the last meeting in January. Committee liaisons will be appointed at that meeting as well. Kyle Howard has been appointed to Finance Analyst. The Finance Department will also be hiring an Accounting Analyst to replace Joe Rueb. Committee Member Straumann asked whether a study had been done on Old Hwy 10. Ms. Olson indicated they did get a report on that section with different options for Council to choose for improvements. She indicated she will find out what the current discussions are on that from Public Works Director Maurer and will report back to the committee. Committee Member Michaelson asked about the County Road E Bridge over Snelling. Ms. Olson advised that the bridge is up for reconstruction in 2015 and possibly would be done sooner if the City decides to advance construct. This is going through a scoping process with MnIDOT and the City staff will be monitoring and working on this. Committee Member Peck asked if the new committee members had been given any background information regarding past /present projects. Ms. Olson indicated she would be mailing the new members the Comprehensive Plan. Committee Chair Scott asked if Council had appointed anyone to represent the City at the arbitration. Ms. Olson indicated that former Mayor Stan Harpstead has been appointed to represent the City. Ms. Olson mentioned she did talk to Ramsey County and they are revamping the 1,000 Bench Program since it was not successful in the past. Once the program is revamped she is going to revisit to see if it looks like something the committee may want to apply for. 6. NEXT MEETING A. The next meeting is scheduled for February 15, 2011, at 6:30 p.m. 7. ADJOURNMENT Committee Member Straumann moved to adjourn, seconded by Committee Member Garretson. The meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m. Agenda Item 3A: 2011 Committee Goals and Expectations C. Goals: ONGOING and AS NEEDED: Commission and Committee: Committee Name: Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committee (PTRC) Year: 2011 A. General Purpose for Committees and Task Forces: While the City Council and City Staff have the sole responsibility for all activities within the City of Arden Hills, from time to time they find it desirable, advantageous, and necessary to bring together residents of Arden Hills in order to broaden and enrich the discussion around possible decisions. As an example, the City Council's ability to debate and consider far ranging alternatives is stifled by the risk that the mere discussion of alternatives will engender them with undeserved merit. In addition, Arden Hills will always seek to hire the most qualified and capable employees, but in doing so we will frequently hire staff that is not intimately connected to the Arden Hills neighborhoods. Therefore, it is critical that the City create a mechanism where the City Staff can get unfettered and unbiased reaction to their novel thoughts and ideas. The Commission, Committee, and Task Forces are established to broaden and enrich the content that will ultimately be enacted or authorized by the elected City Council. B. Mission/Purpose: Parks, trails, recreation, and natural resources in Arden Hills increase the desirability of the city as a place to live or work, enhance the health and well -being of citizens and guests, and improve the value of citizens' property. The Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committee (PTRC) represents the interests of Arden Hills citizens in leading the continuing development, expansion, and improvement of those resources. The PTRC recommends to the City Council actions that support those interests; monitors the use of and the improvements in parks, trails, and recreation; and collaborates with other City committees and commissions in improving parks and trails. 1. Recommend actions that advance the vision for parks, trails, and recreation. 2. Assist in identifying ongoing parks and trails maintenance /improvement priorities. 3. Recommend and review grant opportunities, sponsorships, and partnerships for parks and trails 4. Assist, advise, and monitor plans for parks, trails and recreation within TCAAP at the appropriate time. 5. Continue to work with Ramsey County on mutually beneficial trail /park projects and activities. 6. Monitor potential road improvements to encourage inclusion of pedestrian friendly infrastructure whenever possible. 7. Look to enhance /add recreational opportunities in our parks. 8. Sponsor and organize Community events such as clean up day and buckthorn removal day(s). 9. Assist in preparing a list of topics and potential articles that the Committee would like to see highlighted in the City newsletter. 2011 GOALS: 1. Review and analyze the impact of establishing a fee structure for field use in the City and bring a recommendation to Council. 2. Review, comment on and recommend future enhancements for the 5 year Capital Improvement Program. 3. Research, review, comment and recommend approval on the following specific projects: a. Bench Implementation Bench Location b. Valentine Park Improvements c. Adopt a Garden Program d. Trail Maintenance Plan 4. Review the need for trail signage along trail corridors in the City and recommend a trail signage plan to the Council. D. Committee Expectations: While the work required of PTRC members will vary both across members and across time, the following expectations are generally held of all committee members: 1. The interests of Arden Hills and its citizens are foremost 2. Participation of PTRC members is key to their contribution a. Members should be present and involved in meetings of the committee. b. Members should be actively engaged in discussing issues, sharing perspectives, and raising questions that are essential to good decision- making. c. Effective participation derives from continually learning about Arden Hills parks, trails, and recreation and the physical and political environments in which they exist. This learning includes those formal opportunities afforded by the PTRC, as well as informal opportunities that occur in the course of one's activities. d. As a general guideline, members should expect to spend approximately 6 to 8 hours per month in their work on the committee. 3. The PTRC is a group of peers no one member has more standing or power than others. 4. Respect for the opinions of each other, and for those with whom the PTRC interacts, is a hallmark of the committee's work. Members seek clarity in presenting their views, and represent a sense of stewardship in all that they do. 5. PTRC members engage in continual self assessment of their performance on the committee. As needs arise, they seek education and skills necessary to their performance. As a collective, the committee develops changes in its composition, structure and function as needed. 6. The PTRC provides opportunities for the education of its members, both as part of committee meetings, and through access to educational events in other settings. Members actively engage in this education as part of their responsibility to the committee. 7. Some of the work of the PTRC is in areas of subjective judgment, where there is not enough hard information to make the decisions that are necessary. Members who are most successful in these decisions are those who are aware of the values they hold, willing to engage in the discussion of those values, and respectful of those values held by others that may differ from their own. 8. The PTRC is composed of individuals with diverse perspectives and experience. The committee benefits from the contrasts that this diversity engenders, and seeks to improve the decisions it makes and the actions it takes by understanding the conflicts and resolving the disputes that arise in the discussion of issues and plans. Agenda Item 3B: Facility Fee Information 0 O O N 0 E d z ca) cu r-r .-r r T� z o CU ttO CU L L L C 0 0 Q) 0 N Q. 0 0 to 0 0 CO z 0 L N Q) (1 Q 0 c ro z Q 0 0 0 O 0 0 Cr) z z z CU CU E CO V) v c E to V) s- co Q) N e) z O 0 O '1- 0 L Q) 4' a 0 c 0 0 0 0 m a) co E z L 0 N -lJ�- Q 0 N a- i i CU 0 cts 0 CU 0 N O CU c 00 E o o o 0 c m c co (0 s•- fQ 0 it: n o Q 0 0) :0 0 Q_ E The majority of youth field use in Arden Hills comes from the Association Use. Below is an estimate of fees we would have collected from 2010 if we had a youth field fee. If we charged $5.00 per 4 hour time block: Association: Shoreview Area Youth Baseball (SAYB) Games: 520.00 Practice: $2,120.00 TOTAL $2,640.00 North Suburban Soccer Association (NSSA) Games /Practice: 180.00 TOTAL: $2,820.00 If we charged $15.00 per 4 hour block: Association: Shoreview Area Youth Baseball (SAYB) Games: 1,560.00 Practice: 6,360.00 TOTAL 7,920.00 North Suburban Soccer Association (NSSA) Games /Practice: 540.00 TOTAL: $8,460.00 Agenda Item 3C: Valentine Park Improvement Process Memo from 1/31/11 City Council Meeting DATE: January 31, 2011 BEN HILLS MEMORANDUM TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers Patrick Klaers, City Administrator FROM: Terry Maurer, Public Works Director ./c er SUBJECT: Valentine Park Improvement Process Background In 2008, WSB was hired by the City to conduct a drainage analysis of the Valentine Park area. The Study was published on February 9, 2009. The purpose of the study was to identify sources of flooding in Valentine Park and to provide solutions that would reduce or eliminate the flooding. Due to some continued neighborhood concern about the conclusions contained in the WSB study, the City Council directed Staff in 2010 to retain a consultant to render a "second opinion" on the WSB study. Quotes were obtained, and Bolton and Menk, Inc. was hired to perform the review of the WSB study. Bolton and Menk's conclusions were contained in a letter dated November 2, 2010. Staff presented the findings to the City Council and PTRC at meetings in December 2010. Improvement Process The 201 1 CIP has a total of $310,000 for improvements to Valentine Park. A new play structure is programmed at $50,000 and $260,000 for other types of improvements. Given the controversy over the drainage analysis that was performed for Valentine Park, Staff feels it is important to maintain as much control as possible over the remainder of the improvement process. Staff recommends that Roseville Engineering Staff be used for the site civil plan preparation, bidding and construction administration. Staff also feels it is very important that there be some form of neighborhood public participation regarding the types of park improvements included in the final plans. For this, Staff would recommend hiring a Park Planner to assist the City. The following is a tentative schedule for implementing the park improvements: City Council Meeting P:\Admin\Council\Agendas Packet Information\20 111 1-3 1-1 1 Regular\Packet Information\ Valentine Park Improvement Process Page 1 of 2 DATE TASK January 31, 2011 review improvement process with City Council February 7, 2011 request quotes from selected park planners March 15, 2011 review park improvement options and public participation with PTRC March/April implement public participation process April 19, 2011 review public input and staff recommendations with PTRC April 25, 2011 review PTRC recommendation regarding park improvements with City Council May-July plan preparation July 19, 2011 review plan and specification with PTRC review plan and specification and PTRC recommendation with City Council July 25, 2011 authorization to proceed to bidding August 29, 2011 City Council consider Award of Construction Contract September- November construction June 1, 2012 construction complete Council Action Requested The City Council is requested to review the proposed Valentine Park Improvement Project process, give comment and direct Staff to proceed with the improvements. City Council Meeting P:\Admin\Council\Agendas Packet Information\2011\1-31-11 Regular\Packet Information\ Valentine Park Improvement Process Page 2 of 2 Agenda Item 4A: PTRC /Council Joint Work Session Draft Agenda Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee Potential Agenda for CouncilIPTRC Joint Meeting March 21, 2011 1. 2011 Goals /Objectives a. Facility Fee Analysis b. Trail Signage c. 5 Year Capital Improvement Program d. Review, comment and recommend approval on current projects 2. CP Rail Mural Contest Recommendation 3. Grants Which trails, which grants 4. Trails Regional analysis of Ramsey County /Surrounding Cities/Mn/DOT Bike and Trail 5. Ongoing /As Needed Goals Other Attachments: Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Agenda February 9, 2011 2. Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes January 12, 2011 3. Ramsey County State of the Parks (Trail) Report 2009 -2010 4. Revised 2011 Committee Calendar 1) CALL TO ORDER 2) APPROVAL OF AGENDA 3) APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JANUARY 12, 2011 4) 2011 DEER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM 5) KELLER REGIONAL PARK PICNIC SHELTER LOCATIONS AND DESIGN 6) 2010 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION WORK PROGRAM REVIEW 7) 2011 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION WORK PROGRAM 8) DIRECTOR'S REPORT 9) REPORT FROM CHAIR AND OTHER COMMISSION MEMBERS 10) ADJOURNMENT 1 The regular meeting of the Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order by Chair Straumann at 6:06 p.m., at Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Department, 2015 North Van Dyke Street, Maplewood, Minnesota. Members Present: Jack Ditmore, Deb Falkowski, Candy Petersen, Gale Pederson, Bryan Shirley, Brian Tempas, Richard Straumann Members Absent: Phil Jenni Staff Present: Greg Mack, Scott Yonke, Jody Yungers APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chair Straumann asked for a motion to approve the minutes of November 16, 2010. Ms. Pederson moved, seconded by Ms. Falkowski, that the minutes of November 16, 2010 be approved as mailed. Motion carried. ELECTION OF OFFICERS Mr. Straumann nominated Gale Pederson to serve as Chair for 2011. Hearing no additional nominations, Ms. Petersen moved, seconded by Mr. Tempas, that nominations be closed and a unanimous ballot be cast for Ms. Pederson as Chair. Motion carried. Upon inquiry by other Commission members, Mr. Straumann volunteered to serve as Vice Chair for 2011. Hearing no additional nominations, Ms. Petersen moved, seconded by Mr. Tempas, that nominations be closed and a unanimous ballot be cast for Mr. Straumann as Vice Chair. Motion carried. APPROVAL OF BY -LAWS Mr. Mack distributed copies of the Parks and Recreation Commission By -laws, highlighting the reference to Commission meetings and attendance obligations. Ms. Falkowski moved, seconded by Ms. Pederson, that the Parks and Recreation Commission approve the 2011 By -laws. Motion carried. 1 2012 -2017 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (INCLUDING REGIONAL PARKS AND TRAILS CIP AND LEGACY FUNDS) Ramsey County is on a two -year budget cycle, the next budget cycle being the years 2012 -2013. The County adopts a levy for the first year and then considers minor adjustments during the second year, if necessary. At the same time the two -year budget cycle was adopted, the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) cycle was changed from five years to a six -year program. The Capital Improvement Program Advisory Committee ranks projects based on certain criteria and then the County Board receives recommendations and adopts a CIP along with the corresponding funding. Projects are categorized based on prorated total cost. Regular projects are under $1 million and major capital projects are over $1 million. The CIP request has to be submitted by January 26, 2011 and will encompass capital projects over $50,000 regardless of funding source. The total request for the six -year CIP is $18,172,200. Mr. Mack reviewed the Parks and Recreation Department's six -year CIP with the Commission. Mr. Straumann moved, seconded by Ms. Petersen, to recommend approval of the Parks and Recreation Department 2012 -2017 CIP. Motion carried. 2009 -2010 STATE OF THE PARKS REPORT PRESENTATION TO THE RAMSEY COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, FEBRUARY 1, 2011 Mr. Straumann agreed to present the 2009 -2010 State of the Parks Report to the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners on February 1, 2011. All Commission members are welcome to attend the Board meeting. Mr. Ditmore recommended that language regarding Keller Golf Course's environmental stewardship be added to the report. By consensus, the Commission agreed with this recommendation. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Mr. Mack reported that: The Department is in the process of hiring a Landscape Architect to assist with park development projects, including in -house design work. The County Board approved a redesign of the 1,000 Benches Program on January 11, 2011. 300 benches can be placed within the County park and trail system. The Department is seeking a grant through the State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) to fund the slab portion of the benches. The Commission discussed a land exchange proposal at Little Lake Josephine. The Commission recommended accepting the proposed land exchange if the boundary on the Westad property was changed. The boundary has been changed and the land exchange will be going before the Board of Commissioners in February 2011. Mr. Mack thanked all the Commission members for continuing to serve on the Parks and Recreation Commission. REPORT FROM CHAIR AND OTHER COMMISSION MEMBERS Mr. Straumann distributed Minnesota Department of Natural Resources annual p oster and some other informational hand -outs to the Commission members. 2 ADJOURNMENT Upon appropriate motion, the meeting was adjourned. Respectfully submitted, Vicki Dahlquist 3 STATE OF THE PARKS REPORT 2009 -2010 RAMSEY COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION The resolution establishing the Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Commission prescribes that the Commission prepare a State of the Parks Report. This report reflects activities of the Commission for the period 2009 -2010. Throughout this period, the Commission has worked with the staff of the Parks and Recreation Department to address community needs and interests. As residents of Ramsey County, we appreciate the opportunity to share our perspectives about the parks and recreation services. In 2008, the voters of Minnesota approved the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment that will provide additional funding for regional parks and trails over the next 25 years. Ramsey County, as one of the ten implementing agencies for the Metropolitan Regional Park System received appropriations in 2009 and 2010 from this new funding source. The Parks and Recreation Commission has participated in discussion regarding the appropriation of these funds. We are optimistic that this new source of funding will enable Ramsey County to continue implementation of priority elements within the Natural Resource Management Plan, systematically implement the Tamarack Nature Center Destination for Discovery Master Plan and address critical needs within the regional park and trail system that cannot be met with additional funding sources. The following are highlights of parks and recreation activities that involved the Commission during the past two years: Phalen- Keller Regional Park Master Plan. The Minnesota Legislature appropriated funding to Ramsey County and the City of St. Paul to update the master plan for the Phalen Keller Regional Park. The planning staff of the county and city coordinated the 1 master planning process involving a steering committee and a series of public meetings. Members of the Commission participated on the steering committee. The most significant directions with respect to the Keller portion of the park were increased connectivity (trail connections) and natural resource restoration in selected areas within the park. The master plan was recommended for approval by the Parks and Recreation Commission in Fall 2010. It will be presented to the St. Paul City Council, Ramsey County Board of Commissioners and the Metropolitan Council for adoption. STATE OF THE PARKS REPORT 2009 -2010 RAMSEY COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Keller Regional Park Picnic Area improvements. State bond appropriations matched by the Metropolitan Council have enabled the Department to proceed with planned improvements to the recreation areas within this popular regional park. The Commission has reviewed all plans for replacement of restrooms, picnic shelters, roadways and parking lots. In 2009 -2010, picnic shelters were constructed at Keller Island, Lakeside and Lower Keller picnic areas. Restrooms were constructed at Lower Keller and Round Lake. A new roadway and parking lot are under construction at the Lower Keller site. The final phase of the building replacement has been funded and will include three new picnic shelters at the Golfview site and a new shelter at Round Lake. It is anticipated that these projects will be completed in 2011. Keller Golf Course Reconstruction. The Commission reviewed and recommended approval of the pre design plans and cost estimate for the Keller Golf Course redevelopment. This project is included in the County Capital Improvement Plan in 2011 and 2012. The Commission lo0ks forward to the opportunity to work with staff and the golfing community on project design in 2011. Silver Lake Trail Plan. The Commission reviewed design plans for the proposed Silver Lake Trail located on the west side of Century Avenue. The plans, as recommended by the Commission, will provide a safe pedestrian and bicycle route adjacent to Silver Lake in North St. Paul. The plan was presented to the Minnesota Legislature as a bonding request by the City of North St. Paul but was not funded in 2010. Active Living Ramsey Communities! (ALRC). The Commission has been engaged in the ALRC initiative. Members of the Commission have volunteered to work on standing committees with an emphasis on establishing a safe network of trails for pedestrians and bicyclists. STATE OF THE PARKS REPORT 2009 -2010 RAMSEY COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Deer Management. Annually, the Commission reviews the results of aerial survey counts and recommends implementation plans for the upcoming year under the Cooperative Deer Management Program. The Commission has supported deer removal using archers from the Metropolitan Bowhunters Resource Base as a practical approach to managing deer in and adjacent to Ramsey County parks and open space. f, Agency Accreditation, The Department of Parks and "1° CAPRA Recreation was reaccredited in 2009 by the Commission for'- t- the Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies CAPRA). ACC DIT D 0 of The Parks and Recreation Commission met with the CAPRA 4 n� ecre at Visitation Team while they were assessing the Department's compliance with the national standards. Ultimately, the Department was reaccredited in March 2009. Tamarack Nature Center Destination for Discovery. The Commission has been involved in planning and design of the Destination for Discovery project from inception including the master plan, EcoArts curriculum plan, design development documents and construction plans for the Nature Play Area, Children's Garden and Garden House. The project offers extraordinary opportunities to reconnect children and families with nature. The Commission has enthusiastically embraced this project and looks forward to opportunities to continue the phased implementation of Destination for Discovery. Rice Creek Regional Trail Corridor, The Commission has been engaged in planning for transfer of additional properties within the Twin Cities Army Ammunitions Plant for regiona trail purposes. The plans for transfer of 108 acres that encompass the Rice Creek trailhead, Wildlife Corridor and the south Rice Creek Regional Trail corridor have been reviewed and recommended for approval by the Commission. Otter Lake Boat Launch Redevelopment. The Commission was involved in planning of the improvements of the parking lot and installation of a restroom facility to support the boat access and off -leash dog area. Based on this plan, the Department secured a grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to implement the project. Off -leash Dog Areas. Ramsey County has been a leader in the provision of off leash dog areas in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. The Commission's involvement began in 1990 when dog owners approached the Department and the Commission about designating off-leash dog areas within county and regional parks. The Commission endorsed the initial pilot pro- gram that involved Rice Creek and Battle Creek sites. In addition, w. Commission members participated on an evaluation committee which ultimately recommended the addition of the Otter Lake and Woodview sites. During the past couple of years, the Commission has been involved in recommending improvements to the off -leash dog areas including some boundary adjustments and installation of sy Y perimeter fencing. Prairie /Oak Savannah Restoration. The Natural Re- source Management Plan recommended by the Commission estab- lishes a framework for restoration of natural resources within Ram- sey County park and open space. Based on the Natural Resource Management Plan, the Department has been successful in securing State and Federal funds for projects within Battle Creek Regional Park, Vadnais Snail Lakes Regional Park and Bald Eagle -Otter Lakes Regional Park. Review of Proposed Operating and Capital Improvement Budget. The Commission has welcomed the opportunity to review and make recommendations on the proposed biennial (2010 -2011) Operating Budget and the six -year (2010 -2015) Capital Improvement Program for the Department of Parks and Recreation. The Com- mission views parks and recreation services as essential to the quality of life in Ramsey County and appreciates the County Board's financial support for operations and capital improvements. Lookin Forward A Commission's Pers ective The Parks and Recreation Commission members are County residents, avid park users and citizens appointed by the County Board to advise them on parks and recreation matters. We believe our parks and outdoor recreation opportunities are a key part of the quality of life in Ramsey County. Our residents consistently rank our parks high and the availability of parks and green space in the Twin Cities ranked 2nd out of 12 meas- ures in assessing satisfaction with place. Yet, despite the strong bond taxpayers have with our parks, the Parks and Recreation budget is just a fraction of the County's budget. The following are some specific observations and recommendations of the Commission. We appreciate the opportunity to serve Ramsey County on the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Department of Parks and Recreation has secured capital funding to develop and rede- velop most elements of the parks and recreation system; however, maintaining these areas and facilities are a priority for the Commission. Routine maintenance during peak use peri- ods has been reduced in recent years due to budget cuts. This is particularly evident in parks and beaches during the summer months. The Commission encourages the County Board to fund adequate maintenance services at parks and beaches throughout peak use periods. Maintaining facilities throughout their useful life requires a continued commitment to capi- tal asset management. The Commission appreciates the County Board's continued support of funding for capital asset management. Trails provide recreational opportunities that link parks and community assets, as well as provide transportation alternatives that support active living. Collectively, Ramsey County and its municipalities have provided a number of trail opportunities; however, emphasis should be placed on completing a network of trails by addressing critical gaps in the trail system. The Commission supports programs and services for teens and encourages Ramsey County to work with municipalities, school districts and non profit organizations to expand oppor- tunities for teenagers. Parks and recreation services contribute substantially to the health of County residents. The Active Living Ramsey Communities! initiative underscores the positive relationship between parks and trails and the health of our community. Looking Forward, A Commission's Perspective The Commission recommends that a survey of County residents be conducted to gather public opinions about parks and recreation services. Based on these findings, the Commis- sion supports an expanded emphasis on marketing and promotion of the parks and recrea- tion facilities and services, including use of social media for interactive communication with system users. The Department has successfully secured federal and state grants to develop and improve parks and recreation facilities. The Commission supports the fund development program for Tamarack Nature Center Destination for Discovery and encourages the County to ex- plore other alternative funding sources for improving facilities and services. Ramsey County is a diverse community. The Commission supports efforts to provide ser- vices for all people in the County. The Commission recognizes the critical role of parks and recreation in promoting environ- mental stewardship. The Tamarack Nature Center Destination for Discovery project pro- vides an extraordinary opportunity to reconnect children and families with nature. Keller Golf Course is a County landmark with a rich history of national, state and regional significance. The Commission supports redevelopment of the facility in a manner that maintains its traditional character, enhances public services, reflects current best practices, continues the emphasis on environmental stewardship and improves playability. Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Commission Current members 2009-2010 *Debra Falkowski, District 1 (September 2004 present) Terry Huntrods, District 3 (August 2003 -June 2009) *Phil Jenni, at urge (June 1999- present) *Gale Pederson, District 2 (September 2004- present) *Candy Petersen, District 7 (September 2006- present) David Pettiford, District, at large (January 2008 -June 2009) Caddy Rowland, District 6 (January 2009 September 2009) *Bryan Shirley, District 5 (January 2009 present) *Richard Straumann, at large (August 2003-present) *Brian Tempas, District 3 (September 2009 present) �I�DEN HILLS Tuesday Tuesday *Monday Saturday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Saturday Tuesday Tuesday Meeting dates, times and locations are subject to change. *January 11 February 15 March 21 April 16 April 19 May 17 June 21 July 19 August 16 September 20 October 18 October 29 November 15 December 20 PTRC 2011 Schedule 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. 5:00 P.M. 9:00 A.M. 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. *5:45 P.M. 6:30 P.M. NO MEETING 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. 9:00 A.M. 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. Regular Meeting Date moved due to Holiday City Council Meeting Conflict JOINT PTRC /COUNCIL MEETING Earlier time in order to get to all park sites City Council Chambers City Council Chambers City Council Chambers Tony Schmidt Regional Park Earth Day Clean Up Event City Council Chambers Cummings Park Pavilion Park Tour TBD Possible Committee BBQ TBD Possible Park Site City Council Chambers Crepeau Nature Preserve Buckthorn Removal Day City Council Chambers City Council Chambers