HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-15-22 PTRCAPPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
September 20, 2022 PTRC Minutes
DRAFT 09 -20 -22 -PTRC MINUTES.PDF
October 18, 2022 PTRC Minutes
DRAFT 10 -18 -22 -PTRC MINUTES.PDF
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Trail Projects Update
TRAIL PROJECTS UPDATE.PDF
PTRC Item Update
PTRC ITEM UPDATE.PDF
Parkshore Loop Trail Name Memo
PARKSHORE LOOP TRAIL NAME MEMO.PDF
2023 PTRC Work Plan Trail Recommendations
ITEM 3D ATTACHMENT A - PRTC 2022 WORK PLAN.PDF
2023 PTRC WORK PLAN TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS.PDF
NEW BUSINESS
Park Stewardship
PARK STEWARDSHIP.PDF
ITEM 4A ATTACHMENT A - GREENSTEP CITIES 18.8.PDF
ITEM 4A ATTACHMENT B - (MPLS) PARK STEWARDSHIP
PROGRAM.PDF
ITEM 4A ATTACHMENT C - BEECITYUSA.PDF
Park Restroom Locks
PARK RESTROOM LOCKS.PDF
ITEM 4B ATTACHMENT A - PARK RESTROOM TIMED OPEN CLOSE
DOORS.PDF
Review Status Of Past PTRC Goals
REVIEW STATUS OF PAST PTRC GOALS.PDF
ATTACHMENT A - PTRC 2022 WORK PLAN.PDF
Rain Gardens
RAIN GARDENS.PDF
BWSR Pilot Program
BWSR PILOT PROGRAM.PDF
January And February Revised Meeting Dates
JANUARY AND FEBRUARY REVISED MEETING DATES.PDF
Term Limits
TERM LIMITS.PDF
REPORTS
NEXT MEETING
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
ADJOURN
A quorum of the City Council may be present at this
meeting.
Chair:
Marie Hinton
(2024)
Committee
Members:
Paul Beggin
(2022)
Suzanne
McGaugh
(2022)
Kristine Poelzer
(2022)
Micah Kiernan
(2022)
Mark Kelliher
(2022)
Kerri Seemann
(2022)
Jill Anderson
(2024)
Timothy Nelson
(2024)
Dan Dietz
(2024)
Vacant
Vacant
Council Liaison:
Steve Scott
Parks, Trails, and
Recreation Committee
November 15, 2022
6:30 p.m.
City Hall
Address:
1245 W Highway 96
Arden Hills MN 55112
Phone:
651 -792 -7800
Website :
www.cityofardenhills.org
City Vision
Arden Hills is a strong community that values its unique environmental setting,
strong residential neighborhoods, vital business community, well -maintained
infrastructure, fiscal soundness, and our long -standing tradition as a desirable
City in which to live, work, and play.
Agenda
CALL TO ORDER
1.
2.
2.A.
Documents:
2.B.
Documents:
3.
3.A.
Documents:
3.B.
Documents:
3.C.
Documents:
3.D.
Documents:
4.
4.A.
Documents:
4.B.
Documents:
4.C.
Documents:
4.D.
Documents:
4.E.
Documents:
4.F.
Documents:
4.G.
Documents:
5.
6.
6.A.
APPROVAL OF AGENDAAPPROVAL OF MINUTESSeptember 20, 2022 PTRC Minutes
DRAFT 09 -20 -22 -PTRC MINUTES.PDF
October 18, 2022 PTRC Minutes
DRAFT 10 -18 -22 -PTRC MINUTES.PDF
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Trail Projects Update
TRAIL PROJECTS UPDATE.PDF
PTRC Item Update
PTRC ITEM UPDATE.PDF
Parkshore Loop Trail Name Memo
PARKSHORE LOOP TRAIL NAME MEMO.PDF
2023 PTRC Work Plan Trail Recommendations
ITEM 3D ATTACHMENT A - PRTC 2022 WORK PLAN.PDF
2023 PTRC WORK PLAN TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS.PDF
NEW BUSINESS
Park Stewardship
PARK STEWARDSHIP.PDF
ITEM 4A ATTACHMENT A - GREENSTEP CITIES 18.8.PDF
ITEM 4A ATTACHMENT B - (MPLS) PARK STEWARDSHIP
PROGRAM.PDF
ITEM 4A ATTACHMENT C - BEECITYUSA.PDF
Park Restroom Locks
PARK RESTROOM LOCKS.PDF
ITEM 4B ATTACHMENT A - PARK RESTROOM TIMED OPEN CLOSE
DOORS.PDF
Review Status Of Past PTRC Goals
REVIEW STATUS OF PAST PTRC GOALS.PDF
ATTACHMENT A - PTRC 2022 WORK PLAN.PDF
Rain Gardens
RAIN GARDENS.PDF
BWSR Pilot Program
BWSR PILOT PROGRAM.PDF
January And February Revised Meeting Dates
JANUARY AND FEBRUARY REVISED MEETING DATES.PDF
Term Limits
TERM LIMITS.PDF
REPORTS
NEXT MEETING
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
ADJOURN
A quorum of the City Council may be present at this
meeting.
Chair:Marie Hinton (2024)Committee Members:Paul Beggin (2022)Suzanne McGaugh (2022)Kristine Poelzer (2022)Micah Kiernan (2022)Mark Kelliher (2022)Kerri Seemann (2022)Jill Anderson (2024)Timothy Nelson (2024)Dan Dietz (2024)VacantVacantCouncil Liaison:Steve Scott Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committee November 15, 2022 6:30 p.m. City Hall Address:1245 W Highway 96Arden Hills MN 55112Phone:651 -792 -7800Website:www.cityofardenhills.orgCity VisionArden Hills is a strong community that values its unique environmental setting, strong residential neighborhoods, vital business community, well -maintained infrastructure, fiscal soundness, and our long -standing tradition as a desirable City in which to live, work, and play.AgendaCALL TO ORDER1.2.2.A.Documents:
2.B.
Documents:
3.
3.A.
Documents:
3.B.
Documents:
3.C.
Documents:
3.D.
Documents:
4.
4.A.
Documents:
4.B.
Documents:
4.C.
Documents:
4.D.
Documents:
4.E.
Documents:
4.F.
Documents:
4.G.
Documents:
5.
6.
6.A.
APPROVAL OF AGENDAAPPROVAL OF MINUTESSeptember 20, 2022 PTRC MinutesDRAFT 09 -20 -22 -PTRC MINUTES.PDFOctober 18, 2022 PTRC MinutesDRAFT 10 -18 -22 -PTRC MINUTES.PDFUNFINISHED BUSINESSTrail Projects UpdateTRAIL PROJECTS UPDATE.PDFPTRC Item UpdatePTRC ITEM UPDATE.PDFParkshore Loop Trail Name MemoPARKSHORE LOOP TRAIL NAME MEMO.PDF2023 PTRC Work Plan Trail RecommendationsITEM 3D ATTACHMENT A - PRTC 2022 WORK PLAN.PDF2023 PTRC WORK PLAN TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS.PDFNEW BUSINESSPark StewardshipPARK STEWARDSHIP.PDFITEM 4A ATTACHMENT A - GREENSTEP CITIES 18.8.PDFITEM 4A ATTACHMENT B - (MPLS) PARK STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM.PDFITEM 4A ATTACHMENT C - BEECITYUSA.PDFPark Restroom LocksPARK RESTROOM LOCKS.PDF
ITEM 4B ATTACHMENT A - PARK RESTROOM TIMED OPEN CLOSE
DOORS.PDF
Review Status Of Past PTRC Goals
REVIEW STATUS OF PAST PTRC GOALS.PDF
ATTACHMENT A - PTRC 2022 WORK PLAN.PDF
Rain Gardens
RAIN GARDENS.PDF
BWSR Pilot Program
BWSR PILOT PROGRAM.PDF
January And February Revised Meeting Dates
JANUARY AND FEBRUARY REVISED MEETING DATES.PDF
Term Limits
TERM LIMITS.PDF
REPORTS
NEXT MEETING
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
ADJOURN
A quorum of the City Council may be present at this
meeting.
Chair:Marie Hinton (2024)Committee Members:Paul Beggin (2022)Suzanne McGaugh (2022)Kristine Poelzer (2022)Micah Kiernan (2022)Mark Kelliher (2022)Kerri Seemann (2022)Jill Anderson (2024)Timothy Nelson (2024)Dan Dietz (2024)VacantVacantCouncil Liaison:Steve Scott Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committee November 15, 2022 6:30 p.m. City Hall Address:1245 W Highway 96Arden Hills MN 55112Phone:651 -792 -7800Website:www.cityofardenhills.orgCity VisionArden Hills is a strong community that values its unique environmental setting, strong residential neighborhoods, vital business community, well -maintained infrastructure, fiscal soundness, and our long -standing tradition as a desirable City in which to live, work, and play.AgendaCALL TO ORDER1.2.2.A.Documents:2.B.Documents:3.3.A.Documents:3.B.Documents:3.C.Documents:3.D.Documents:4.4.A.Documents:4.B.Documents:
4.C.
Documents:
4.D.
Documents:
4.E.
Documents:
4.F.
Documents:
4.G.
Documents:
5.
6.
6.A.
CITY OF ARDEN HILLS
PARKS, TRAILS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2022, 6:30 PM
ARDEN HILLS CITY HALL
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
Chair Marie Hinton called the September 20, 2022 meeting of the Parks, Trails, and Recreation
Committee to order at 6:30 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Marie Hinton, Committee Members Paul Beggin, Jill Anderson,
Dan Dietz, Mark Kelliher, and Council Liaison Steve Scott
OTHERS PRESENT: Assistant Public Works Director Lucas Miller and Staff Liaison Joe
Vaughan
ABSENT: Committee Members Suzanne McGaugh, Micah Kiernan, Kristine Poelzer, Kerri
Seemann, and Tim Nelson
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A motion was made by Committee Member Beggin and seconded by Committee Member
Kelliher to approve the agenda. Motion passed unanimously.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. August 16, 2022 PTRC Minutes
A motion was made by Committee Member Dietz and seconded by Committee Member
Beggin to approve the August 16, 2022 PTRC Minutes. Motion passed unanimously.
3. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Trail Projects Update
Assistant Public Works Director Miller reported that Lexington Avenue construction is moving
slowly, most of the pedestrian routes won’t be done until next year. The Safe Routes to School
from Mounds View High School to County Road E2 received a $450,000 grant and the rest of the
cost will be split with the County, construction will be next year. The feasibility study for the route
from Lake Valentine Road to Hwy 96 is ongoing. Trails received annual maintenance including
some fog sealing. The Parkshore trail loop had ADA ramps installed last week, exercise
equipment is there but waiting for installation. The Lake Johanna Boulevard trail study is complete
DRAFT
Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes September 20, 2022
Page 2
and available on the Ramsey County website, tentatively scheduled for construction in 2027. Pickle
ball striping will be installed at Hazelnut and Freeway parks this week.
Committee Member Kelliher asked why the trail fogging was done right after school started.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said it was tied to some large area street patching
projects, and due to weather and scheduling conflicts it unfortunately coincided with the first week
of school.
Further discussion ensued regarding funding for the future Lake Johanna Boulevard Trail.
B. PTRC Item Update
Council Liaison Scott said he had not yet taken any of the items to the Council for discussion.
Chair Hinton asked if the Council liaison could bring the survey, volunteer recognition/vests and
trail name contest ideas to the other councilmembers.
Further discussion involved ways to recognize volunteers.
C. Tree Locations at Perry Park Dog Park
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said the earliest trees will be planted will be the end of
October.
Committee Member Kelliher felt the trees weren’t necessary when there is a shelter planned.
Chair Hinton said the trees make it look nicer.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller noted the trees were $700 plus additional costs, for about
$1,000 each.
Council Liaison Scott stated the money in the Tree Fund has to be used for trees.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said if there are other spots that they feel would like to
see trees to let staff know, but these are being planted based on previous feedback from PTRC.
Staff Liaison Vaughan said the number one comment that he has heard at Bark and Rec Day is
that there is no shade for dogs or humans.
Committee Member Dietz felt it the trees were good for aesthetics, that instead of feeling like an
old baseball field they would help make it feel like a park.
Chair Hinton thought the layout staff showed was good.
Committee Member Anderson agreed.
Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes September 20, 2022
Page 3
D. Parkshore Loop Trail Name
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said at the last meeting they talked briefly about having
a contest for naming the trail, although the equipment isn’t in place yet.
Chair Hinton thought they could put information about a contest in the newsletter and social
media, or enlist the help of elementary schools to see if they can come up with a name.
Council Liaison Scott said the PTRC could make a recommendation to Council and they could
decide if they are interested in the contest or name.
Discussion ensued about how a contest at the elementary and/or high schools might work.
4. NEW BUSINESS
A. State of the City Recap
Council Liaison Scott said the State of the City event was held at Boston Scientific. Only about a
dozen people from the community attended. Part of his presentation focused on the trails; how
many miles of trails were put in over the last ten years, obstacles to construction such as ADA
compliance, soil conditions, driveway impacts, retaining walls and stormwater management. He
noted the recording was available for viewing on NineNorth.
B. 2023 PTRC Work Plan Trail Recommendations
Chair Hinton stated that each year they develop a work plan. One of the things they usually put
into the plan is a recommendation for trail sections. She has had feedback from outside the group
that signage along some trails is out of date.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said Council feedback on last year’s plan was positive.
Committee Member Beggin thought they should keep up with what Ramsey County is planning
to put in to Rice Creek Commons.
Discussion continued regarding the trails on last year’s plan, what was happening with those
projects, and updates for the list.
C. Floral Park Well Update
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said they went out for quotes for wells at Floral Park and
at the community garden area. Quotes came in for wells between 160 and 200 feet deep from
multiple contractors, with pricing for a hand pump at Floral Park around $22,000, and about
$26,000 at the community gardens, with another $5,000 each for a solar option. While the solar
option adds a convenience it also adds to the expense, and a handpump would require roughly 40
pumps before you would get water. Those quotes have not been brought to Council to discuss.
Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes September 20, 2022
Page 4
5. REPORTS
Council Liaison Scott stated that Council is considering amending the Tree Fund ordinance to
include landscaping. Money currently in the Tree Fund has to be used for trees, but future money
can be used for trees or landscaping. The money comes from developers when they do projects in
the City.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said developers have to replace a certain number of
caliper inches or they are required to put money into the Tree Fund.
Staff Liaison Vaughan explained that he submitted his resignation and would be starting as a
Recreation Program Specialist at the City of Woodbury at the end of the month.
6. NEXT MEETING
The next PTRC Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 18, 2022.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
CITY OF ARDEN HILLS
PARKS, TRAILS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2022, 6:30 PM
ARDEN HILLS CITY HALL
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
Chair Marie Hinton called the October 18, 2022 meeting of the Parks, Trails, and Recreation
Committee to order at 6:30 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Marie Hinton, Committee Members Paul Beggin, Kristine Poelzer,
Kerri Seemann, and Council Liaison Steve Scott
OTHERS PRESENT: Assistant Public Works Director Lucas Miller
ABSENT: Committee Members Suzanne McGaugh, Micah Kiernan, Mark Kelliher, Jill Anderson,
Tim Nelson and Dan Dietz
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Committee Member Beggin requested to add an update on the recreation programmer position.
Council Liaison Scott said the City posted the position and was happy with the quality of the
candidates. They hope to hire someone by mid-November, but it will impact some winter
programs.
Committee Member Beggin also requested the parks list for equipment and facility updates be
added to the work plan.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. September 9, 2022 PTRC Minutes
No quorum, not approved.
3. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Trail Projects Update
Assistant Public Works Director Miller reported that Lexington Avenue construction is moving
slowly, projected to be done sometime in 2023. The Safe Routes to School from Mounds View
High School to County Road E2 is on the docket for 2023, the grant was awarded and there will be
an open house coming up. The feasibility study for the route from Lake Valentine Road to Hwy 96
was received last week, project cost is roughly $2.6 million, the study will be posted on the
website. The Lake Johanna Boulevard trail study is complete and tentatively scheduled for
Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes October 18, 2022
Page 2
construction in 2027. Floral Park improvements will be presented to Council next Monday to
approve starting the design. A survey will go to Arden Manor residents to see what improvements
they’d like to see at that park with an open house in the next month. Pickle ball striping was
installed at Hazelnut and Freeway parks.
Committee Member Poelzer said it would be nice to have some kind of name badge for
committee members to wear when they attend events.
B. PTRC Item Update
Committee Member Poelzer said she thought they had talked about the triangle park being an
official park since it was donated land and had a welcome sign.
Council Liaison Scott said there are some things that he will advocate for but staff generally
brings the items to Council. Council depends on staff to tell them if ideas are feasible or not.
Committee Member Poelzer mentioned the idea of a sledding hill at Hazelnut Park.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said the larger hill could work but the smaller hill won’t
work because of it being too close to wetlands and backyards.
Committee Member Poelzer said also at Hazelnut Park there are tree stumps sending roots to the
trail and heaving it.
Chair Hinton asked if they wanted to have a future official vote about starting a pollinator
subcommittee. She thought it could come off the list.
C. Parkshore Loop Trial Name
Assistant Public Works Director Miller stated Council discussed this at a work session, due to
lack of resources to facilitate a contest at the schools Council was asking PTRC to suggest names
they can choose from.
Chair Hinton thought they could do a Facebook post to make suggestions.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said the name should incorporate the area and that there
is exercise equipment. Council wants suggestions from the PTRC.
Committee Member Poelzer said she could post on the Arden Hillbillies Facebook page asking
for suggestions if staff finds out it is ok to do so.
D. 2023 PTRC Work Plan Trail Recommendations
Chair Hinton suggested tabling this item until November. She would also like to add park
recommendations and trail recommendations.
Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes October 18, 2022
Page 3
4. NEW BUSINESS
A. Park Stewardship
Committee Member Seemann stated that one of the GreenStep Cities best practices is to develop
a program to involve community members in hands-on land restoration, invasive species
management and stewardship projects. She thought it was something they could work on to
advance in the GreenSteps program.
Committee Member Seemann said she had residents around Hazelnut Park tell her that the people
in their area feel they are responsible for maintaining the park adjacent to their yards so they are
clearing out buckthorn, making forts and planting flowers, some of which are invasive species.
New owners don’t know what their responsibility is.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller responded they are not supposed to do work on City
property without filling out the proper forms and coordinating with staff. Sometimes people take it
upon themselves to do things that the City hasn’t approved.
Committee Member Poelzer said there is a statement on the City website that says residents are
encouraged to take out buckthorn in their yards and on park property.
(Staff note: The City website under Public Works/Forestry/Buckthorn states “The City encourages
residents to remove buckthorn from their own property to maintain and protect the ecological
habitat.”)
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said they have had complaints with people taking more
than the buckthorn and they’ve had to put a stop to it in the past.
Committee Member Poelzer said she had posted on the Arden Hillbillies Facebook page that they
were looking for people to help. She described the buckthorn removal tool. She would like to see
the City newsletter promote the website pages about invasive species.
It was decided to bring this item back again when more committee members are present.
Committee Member Poelzer said the sign on the north end of the Elmer L. Anderson trail near
County Road E near Lake Johanna Beach needs repair.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller asked her to report it through the City’s website.
B. Park Restroom Locks
Committee Member Poelzer said she had seen automatically locking door on restrooms at a
Lakeville, MN park. She would like the committee to consider making a motion to request a cost
feasibility study to install similar locks at Parry and Cummings Parks. Currently Perry and
Cummings parks’ indoor restrooms aren't open unless the facilities/ball field are rented or when the
city holds an event. The porta-potties at these two parks could then be used at other AH parks
where there currently are none.
Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes October 18, 2022
Page 4
Committee Member Beggin thought it was a great idea. He realized there would be expenses to
this and cleaning needed.
Committee Member Poelzer said it is an amenity the residents of Arden Hills paid for once upon
a time that they don’t have access to.
Chair Hinton said the item would be tabled until a future meeting with a quorum.
C. Review of Past PTRC Goals
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said the Mayor was looking for an update on the Work
Plan, such as what items had been done or postponed.
Committee Member Beggin commented that there was money donated to the Foundation for a
bench in someone’s name and he felt the City should contact the family to let them know how
much is there.
Council Liaison Scott explained the donations are made to the Foundation, the Foundation
eventually donates money to the City, and the City Council has to approve the receipt of the
donation.
Committee Member Beggin said that when someone donates to the Foundation there should be an
acknowledgement made to the family that the donation was made for.
Committee Member Poelzer noted that if the Foundation is sitting on money the Council
wouldn’t know. She said there was a former Recreation employee that used to be the go-between.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said that person may have just taken it upon herself to do
that.
Committee Member Poelzer thought they should note in the report how many groups of
volunteers they’ve had, how many people, how many hours and in what parks.
Chair Hinton stated the Perry Park improvements are in progress, they recommended sliding hills
and staff is looking at those, there has been a large amount of volunteer work done especially with
invasive species, everyone adopted parks and reported on maintenance items, they identified areas
that trees could be planted, staff was going to work on updating the park map and info on the
website but she wasn’t sure where that was at.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said the website updates would be a winter item for staff.
Chair Hinton said they gave input on trails and which trails on the list of recommendations would
be completed would be up to Council.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller noted item C was in progress. Item E was basically
done.
Discussion ensued regarding the trail at the senior housing project on Pine Tree Drive.
Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes October 18, 2022
Page 5
Chair Hinton reviewed items under the categories of Recreation and Community Partnership. She
thought the City should consider having someone on staff do work as a volunteer coordinator.
Committee Member Poelzer noted a gap in the trail system on the north side of County Road E.
Assistant Public Works Director Miller said filling that gap be Ramsey County’s decision.
5. REPORTS
None.
6. NEXT MEETING
The next PTRC Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 15, 2022.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
Agenda Item 3-A
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Lucas Miller, Assistant Public Works Director
SUBJECT: Trail Projects Update
Background
A verbal update will be provided at the meeting.
Open House dates for Floral and Arden Manor still TBD.
The CIP for Parks is available online. The budget has been adjusted and will be available
when it is approved.
Rec Position update – Matt Johnson starting December 5th
Agenda Item 3-B
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Marie Hinton, PTRC Chair
SUBJECT: PTRC Item Update
Council Work Session
Council has invited PTRC to present these items at the Dec. 19th Work Session.
Background
The PTRC has voted for several items to be taken to the City Council. See the items below:
Hazelnut Park Proposals
Park Survey
Name badges for PTRC Members
Volunteer Recognition
o Reflective vests
Parkshore Trail Name Contest
Officially name Triangle Park
Request sledding hill be placed on the map at Hazelnut Park
Agenda Item 3-C
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Lucas Miller, Assistant Public Works Director
SUBJECT: Parkshore Loop Trail Name
Background
At the August PTRC meeting, there was discussion about the Parkshore Loop Trail name. The
PTRC suggested holding a contest for community members to submit names for the trail and
have the City Council select the name from the contest submissions.
Council has requested instead to have a name suggestion to come directly from PTRC for their
consideration.
This item is on the agenda for the purpose of discussion and to update PTRC members on the
discussion that took place at the recent Work Session.
1 4/10/2022
Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committee (PTRC)
2022-23 Work Plan
PTRC Purpose and Mission
Parks, trails, recreation and natural resources in Arden Hills increase the desirability of the city as a place
to live, work, play, enhance the health and well-being of citizens and guests, and improve the value of
residents’ 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.
Main Duties
•Review and evaluate city parks, trails, and recreational services
•Advise staff and City Council of ways to maintain and improve these amenities
Meetings
•Third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.
Ongoing and as Needed
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, recommend, and monitor plans for parks, trails and recreation within Arden Hills at the
appropriate time.
5.Be apprised by staff and Council when plans are budgeted for park, trails, and recreation.
6.Continue to work with Ramsey County on mutually beneficial trail/park projects and activities.
7.Monitor potential road improvements to encourage inclusion of pedestrian-friendly
infrastructure whenever possible.
8.Look to enhance/add recreational opportunities in our parks.
9.Recommend future enhancements for the 5-year Capital Improvement Program each year.
10.Sponsor and organize Community events such as special events, garden clean-up day and other
volunteer projects.
11.Prepare and submit semi-regular content for the City Newsletter, City Facebook page and City
website.
2022 - 2023 Goals
•Work with City Council to identify areas where the PTRC could provide recommendations,
research or service to benefit the residents of Arden Hills. PTRC members have various areas of
expertise including: volunteer coordination, recreation, grant writing, knowledge of plant
species communications and event coordination.
ATTACHMENT A
2 4/10/2022
• Ensure that Arden Hills residents and visitors of all ages and physical abilities have recreation
opportunities.
• Encourage Arden Hills residents to enjoy the beautiful parks and trails that Arden Hills has to
offer.
• Continue to become more of a working committee.
• Actively seek opinions from residents on what they would like and report findings to the PTRC.
• PTRC members volunteer to serve as point-person/champion for each park and each trail and
recreation events. All members regularly visit the variety of parks and trails. The champion will
visit her/his park(s) and trails(s) on a regular basis to look for safety needs, maintenance needs,
etc.
• Follow a calendar throughout the year to ensure that there is a good mix of topics covered at
monthly PTRC meetings that become the foundation for next year’s work plan.
• Conduct structured meetings so that City Council, staff, and residents of Arden Hills easily learn
what was accomplished at meetings by reading minutes.
PARKS
1. Park Goals
a. Park improvements and amenities, including benches
b. Park clean up
c. Park maintenance
d. Park safety
2. Park Recommendation List
a. Perry Park dog park improvements: shade, obstacle course, subdivided for small and large dog
areas, concrete at entrances.
b. Identify areas where trees could be planted (in addition to Ash Tree buddy program if
applicable).
c. Invasive Buckthorn, Burdock week removal.
d. Earth Day Cleanup
e. Floral garden Cleanup
f. Swinging bench at Cummings to watch sunrise or sunset.
g. Update park map and information on website with new photos, amenities list and complete
street addresses that are needed for navigation apps.
TRAILS
3. Trail Goals
a. Trail maintenance
b. Trail improvements
c. Trail amenities
d. Trail safety
4. Trail Recommendations
a. Update trails maps on website
b. Connection gaps throughout Arden Hills
c. From County Road E2 North to Lake Valentine Road (C R “F”) and then West to MVHS (Youth+)
3 4/10/2022
d. From County Road “D” Northeast on lake Johanna Blvd, past Tony Schmidt Regional Park –
Ramsey County/METC (as trail building partner – 2 segments), See G, G1 & G2 on map) to
intersection with Snelling Avenue N (Families)
e. From Hwy 51 North to Snelling Avenue N intersection with County Road E/Lake Johanna Blvd
f. From County Road E North along Snelling Avenue N/Old Highway 10, under I-694 to Hwy 96
which now has a regional trail on the South side
g. Bethel University Land Sale: Trail move/redo with senior housing project
h. Trail along South Shore of Round lake
i. From County Road E/Lake Johanna Blvd along west side of Hwy 51 to Glenhill Ave
j. Crepeau nature Preserve Trails upgrade to improve drainage and to replace old surfaces. Add
Hamline Ave trail extension.
RECREATION
5. Recreation Goals
a. Enhance recreation opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages and physical abilities.
6. Recreation Recommendation
a. Winter activities in the parks
i. Sledding hills at parks where possible, especially Hazelnut and Cummings.
b. Add fitness equipment geared toward adults, especially at Cummings Park
i. Six exercise stations will be put in at the senior living facility. The trail will be constructed in
2022 and hopefully the equipment will be in by fall. This may be a good reference for future
projects.
c. More active adult and senior recreation classes and events.
i. Yoga/Fitness in the park at Cummings
d. Multi-generation activities (include some evenings and weekends).
i. Pickleball court at Hazelnut Park or Floral Park
ii. Multi-generation yoga
iii. Multi-generation dance - Possible location at Perry or Cummings if it is possible to move
picnic tables off of the Pavillion.
iv. Volleyball/badminton equipment (be aware of irrigation system)
v. Geocaching at the parks
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP
7. Community partnership goals
a. Outreach
b. Engagement
c. Events
8. Community partnership recommendation list
a. Community engagement
i. Committee members “adopt” an area, park, trail, project
ii. Animal ambassadors from Raptor Center (planned) or Minnesota Zoo
iii. Concerts in the parks: partner with schools and National Guard
iv. Tree placement outreach
b. Fill open spots on the committee
i. Recruit (in person, social media, newsletters, local bulletin boards, places of worship)
ii. Student committee ambassadors
4 4/10/2022
iii. Work with communications committee to highlight parks, trails, and recreation on social
media, YouTube, the newsletter and the City website
c. Arden Hills Foundation
i. Update donation letter business list to include new businesses
ii. Bench placement: track money for benches and create a plan to better track status and
placement.
d. Volunteer recruitment plan proposal
i. Reach out to Bethel University to explore possible partnerships for park cleanups, etc.
ii. Identify volunteer opportunities
PTRC Calendar
March 2022
• Work Plan
• Calendar
April 2022
• “Adopt” an area, park, trail, project, event, volunteer requests
• Discuss Clean-ups
• Work Plan: work session with City Council
May 2022
• Engagement plan
• Recruit new members plan
June 2022
• Park tour
July 2022
• Tree recommendations
• Park and trail maintenance, safety, improvement recommendations
• Bench recommendations
August 2022
• No meeting
September 2022
• 2023 Work Plan: Update trail recommendations
October 2022
• 2023 Work Plan: Update park recommendations
• Review membership terms
November 2022
• 2023 Work Plan: Update recreation recommendations
December 2022
• No meeting
5 4/10/2022
January 2023
• 2023 Work Plan: Update engagement recommendations
February 2023
• 2023 Work Plan: Update calendar
March 2023
• 2023 Work Plan
April 2023
• Work Plan: work session with City Council
Agenda Item 3-D
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Marie Hinton, PTRC Chair
SUBJECT: 2023 PTRC Work Plan Trail Recommendations
Background
Each year, the PTRC develops a work plan for the year. This item is on the agenda so that the
PTRC can discuss the trail recommendations for the next year.
Action Requested
Please review the 2022 PTRC Work Plan’s trail sections and come to the meeting with
recommendations for 2023 that you may have thought about since last month’s PTRC Meeting.
Attachment
Attachment A – 2022 PTRC Work Plan
Agenda Item 4-A
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Kerri Seemann
SUBJECT: Park Stewardship
Background
A verbal update will be provided at the meeting discussing formalizing park stewardship
procedures.
Attachment
Attachment A - GreenStep Cities 18.8
Attachment B - (MPLS) Park Stewardship Program
Attachment C - BeeCityUSA
Best Practice Action 18.8
GreenStep Cities Best Practices: Environmental Management
Parks & Trails No.18
Increase active lifestyles and property values by enhancing the city’s green infrastructure
Best Practice Action 8
Develop a program to involve community members in hands-on land restoration, invasive species
management, and stewardship projects.
Implementation Tools
●See St. Paul-based Great River Greening for assistance in working with volunteers, and
Sentencing to Service for a court alternative that puts carefully selected, nonviolent offenders
to work on community improvement projects.
●'Friends of the Parks' civic groups help deliver, among other benefits, cost savings to a city
from the use of volunteers.
●Community volunteers often help a city in managing terrestrial and aquatic invasive species;
guidance and funding for invasives' management is available from MN DNR and a number of
other organizations.
●Promote or coordinate a citizen science program. Use the SciStarter project finder to find an
activity that will help your community.
●Clean up and utilize unused public land for seasonal needs such as event space, parks, art
installations, and community gardens - see BPA 27.3 .
Star Level Examples
1 star Create an annual event (can be in cooperation with other organizations) or ongoing 'adopt a park'
effort for volunteer trash cleanup of open space, buckthorn removal, etc. for parks or selected public open
space areas; educate community members about invasive species. Report gardens plots in city parks
under BP 27.3
2 star In addition to cleanup and removal of exotics (1 Star), engage community members in annual
restoration of natural areas (replanting shoreland buffers, restoring prairie, etc.).
3 star Create and fund an annual city-wide event for cleanup and restoration, engaging residents in
most neighborhoods and creating a public promotion around the event; coordinate the use of unused
public land for seasonal community use (pop-up parks, gardens, art, etc.).
Best yard trees for our changing climate
Metro area:
American elm
Basswood
Black oak
Black walnut
Bur oak
Cottonwood
Hackberry
Shagbark hickory
Silver maple
White oak
Invasive terrestrial plants (MN DNR)
Flowering plants
Birdsfoot trefoil
Brown, diffuse, and meadow knapweeds*
Bull thistle
Butter and eggs
Canada thistle
Common tansy
Common teasel*
Cow vetch and hairy vetch
Creeping Charlie
Crown vetch or axseed
Cut-leaved teasel*
Dalmatian toadflax*
Erect hedgeparsley
Garlic mustard
Giant hogweed*
Grecian foxglove*
Hoary alyssum
Leafy spurge
Musk or nodding thistle
Narrowleaf bittercress*
Orange hawkweed
Oxeye daisy
Poison hemlock
Queen Anne's lace
Spotted knapweed
White and yellow sweet clover
Wild parsnip
Yellow starthistle*
Grasses
Amur silver grass
Reed canary grass
Smooth brome grass
Trees and shrubs
Amur cork tree
Amur maple
Autumn olive
Black locust
Buckthorn
Japanese barberry
Multiflora rose
Non-native bush honeysuckles
Non-native knotweeds
Norway maple
Russian olive
Siberian elm
Siberian peashrub
Tree of heaven*
Winged burning bush
Vines
Black swallow-wort*
Japanese hops*
Oriental bittersweet*
CPTED: Keeping Community Parks Safe
- Kristin Caborn
Parks are the heart of our communities and our quality of life—where neighbors, friends, and family can
interact freely.
Every time I’m involved with public outreach relating to parks and recreation, community residents tell me
about the importance of safety. Perhaps their concern is partially a sign of our times, but assuming that
the most meaningful connection residents have with their government is generally through parks and
recreation, it is of the utmost importance that residents feel safe using their local parks.
Parks Increase Home Property Values
Property values are higher based on a home’s proximity to a park. The
National Association of Realtors reports that 57% of voters would choose a
home closer to parks and open space over one that was not. In addition, the
survey found that 50% of voters are willing to pay 10% more for a house
located near a park or open space. The National Association of Homebuilders
found that 65% of home buyers felt parks would seriously influence their
decision to move to a community. In fact, it is very common for realtors to
market properties based on their proximity to parks, and if that tendency
continues, it is extremely important that our neighborhood parks are clean and
safe.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, or CPTED (pronounced
SEP-TED), is a unique way to synthesize good planning and design standards
with crime prevention programs in communities. A park’s design can have a
direct impact on the public’s perception of safety and their ultimate willingness
to use the park. Utilizing a comprehensive approach, a CPTED practitioner
can evaluate parks and make recommendations on their compliance with
accepted CPTED strategies, such as natural surveillance, natural access
control, and territorial reinforcement.
●Natural Surveillance—Designing areas where people and their
activities can be regularly observed, and law enforcement and the
“normal user” can easily have eyes on the park space.
●Natural Access Control—Controlling access to a site by clearly
defining park entranceways and exits. For example, a “celebrated
entry” as a primary means of ingress and egress helps staff and users
know where people should come and go.
●Territorial Reinforcement—Creating areas that promote a sense of
ownership—branding public spaces so the user knows they are in
their local park (e.g., implementing a common amenity package
throughout a system, such as signage, benches, and trash
receptacles).
Among the numerous benefits to parks, CPTED can help increase patronage,
reduce maintenance costs, and give the community greater satisfaction and
safety—ultimately creating better places to live, work, and play.
I think that,not only should we allow or encourage residents to volunteer in the parks,but I think that the
process should be clearly defined and advertised.(If it had known it was an option,I would have gotten
involved in maintaining my local park many years ago rather than watching the invasive species spread
and wondering why nothing was being done about it.)We’re making some progress with finding
volunteers and matching them up with PTRC members who need volunteer assistance,but I think there
should also be clearly-defined options for people who want to work independently,such as the Girl Scout
group who are putting flowers into Johanna Marsh or residents who want to maintain the woods behind
their property.
Here is part of a discussion about volunteering on the Arden Hillbillies page:
“Can just anyone cut buckthorn on city/park land?Or is there some permitting
process required?”
“Yes,anyone can remove buckthorn from Arden Hills city property.We have done so over
the years behind our house at a small scale with some success in regrowing native species
(though honestly not a lot of success 😕 ).
Unfortunately,in my experience,Arden Hills doesn't have any real requirements/
education/restrictions for people who want to do large scale buckthorn removal on City
property (aside from the waivers Steve mentioned),and though well intentioned,it can
have a lasting negative impact on the landscape (e.g.removal of native trees and shrubs
that resemble buckthorn,as well as native understory and woody debris that prevent
erosion, using improper herbicides near wetlands, etc.) and neighbor relations.
My experiences with other Cities and Ramsey County have been di erent than this for
sure.
I really appreciate that the folx doing the Hazelnut Park project are providing educational
moments,involving the local community and including assistance of a naturalist.With
things like this and a long-term plan, volunteer work can have fantastic results.”
I think that the process should be clearly defined so that there are no surprises;the city knows who is
working in the parks,what they intend to do,and if they’re meeting their goals and the resident volunteers
know who to communicate with, what work is acceptable to the city, and what is expected of them.
I think that the Minneapolis Stewardship Program is a great example of how it could be done:
(MPLS) Park Stewardship Program
The Park Stewardship Program allows volunteer groups or individuals to restore, maintain and beautify gardens and
natural areas within Minneapolis Parks.
●Volunteers tend the site as needed, with most (if not all) of the work occurring in non-snow months
●Each Park Stewardship Agreement is unique according to the site and interest of the volunteer(s)
●Agreements serve as a communication tool between stewardship volunteers and the MPRB
●Agreements must be reviewed and renewed annually
Park Stewardship Agreements may include but are not limited to the following examples:
●The tending of a garden bed – planting, weeding, watering, mulching
●Invasive species removal – examples include garlic mustard or buckthorn
●Trash pickup
Each Park Stewardship Agreement must identify a lead volunteer who:
●Serves as the contact for the group and as the liaison with the MPRB
●Completes the initial agreement and any annual renewals
●Keeps a record of volunteer work and hours served for end-of-season submittal to the MPRB Volunteer
Coordinator
●Helps establish annual work plan tasks and goals for the agreement
Park Steward Leaders can expect to receive:
●A MPRB staff contact person to help with any questions, concerns, and to assist with the development of
tasks and work plan goals
●Assistance with the procurement of loaned tools and supplies needed to achieve agreement goals
●The recognition and prestige that comes with being a Minneapolis Park Volunteer!
In order to adequately support the work plan goals and activities of our Park Stewardship Program volunteers all Park
Stewardship requests received after June 30th will be reviewed for the following calendar year.
Email to learn more about Park Stewardship Programming.
Natural Areas
Several community groups actively engage to control Invasive species such as buckthorn and garlic mustard in our
parks.
Garlic Mustard
●Please contact Environmental Volunteers prior to removing garlic mustard. Include the location where you
plan to pull.
●All pulled vegetative debris must be bagged (paper or plastic) and labeled “garlic mustard”. Please leave
bagged debris near existing Park Board trash bins or along a trail that is easily accessible by truck.
●Removal timeframe. Pull before seed capsules form on second year plants which occurs between May and
June.
Helpful Garlic Mustard Links
●MPRB Natural Areas Management
●MPRB Invasive Species
●MN Department of Agriculture: Garlic Mustard
●Garlic Mustard Lifecycle from UMN Extension
Buckthorn
MPRB approval is required prior to commencing buckthorn removal activities.Contact Environmental
Volunteers for additional information.You must include the location where you wish to volunteer.
Upon approval of your project please adhere to the following guidelines.
●Any root mass removals must have prior approval by the MPRB Natural Resources Department.
○Root mass removal requires approval due to erosion concerns regarding the destabilization of
shorelines, hillsides, and slopes, and to alleviate the potential introduction of additional invasive
species. Soil disturbance facilitates the spread of invasive species. Invasive species are
opportunistic, always looking for places to establish and gain the upper hand in our natural
landscapes.
●Due to safety concerns no cutting or removal of any specimen over 2 inches in diameter without prior
approval.
●Please do not use buckthorn baggies, plastic bags, tarps, or cans to kill stumps without prior MPRB
approval. Methods such as these need constant monitoring to prevent them from becoming a potential
source of litter.
●Volunteers are not allowed to use chemicals or power equipment. Hand tools only.
●Any deviation from the above guidelines must be approved by the MPRB prior to implementation.
Helpful Buckthorn Links
●MPRB Natural Areas Management
●MPRB Invasive Species
●MN Department of Agriculture: Buckthorn
●MN DNR Buckthorn Identification
Email to learn more about MPRB Invasive Species volunteer opportunities.
This could also help us reach one of the goals of the GreenStep Cities program,of which Arden Hills is a
participant.
Best Practice Action 18.8
GreenStep Cities Best Practices: Environmental Management
Parks & Trails No.18
Increase active lifestyles and property values by enhancing the city’s green infrastructure
Best Practice Action 8
Develop a program to involve community members in hands-on land restoration, invasive species
management, and stewardship projects.
Implementation Tools
●See St. Paul-based Great River Greening for assistance in working with volunteers, and
Sentencing to Service for a court alternative that puts carefully selected, nonviolent offenders
to work on community improvement projects.
●'Friends of the Parks' civic groups help deliver, among other benefits, cost savings to a city
from the use of volunteers.
●Community volunteers often help a city in managing terrestrial and aquatic invasive species;
guidance and funding for invasives' management is available from MN DNR and a number of
other organizations.
●Promote or coordinate a citizen science program. Use the SciStarter project finder to find an
activity that will help your community.
●Clean up and utilize unused public land for seasonal needs such as event space, parks, art
installations, and community gardens - see BPA 27.3 .
Star Level Examples
1 star Create an annual event (can be in cooperation with other organizations) or ongoing 'adopt a park'
effort for volunteer trash cleanup of open space, buckthorn removal, etc. for parks or selected public open
space areas; educate community members about invasive species. Report gardens plots in city parks
under BP 27.3
2 star In addition to cleanup and removal of exotics (1 Star), engage community members in annual
restoration of natural areas (replanting shoreland buffers, restoring prairie, etc.).
3 star Create and fund an annual city-wide event for cleanup and restoration, engaging residents in
most neighborhoods and creating a public promotion around the event; coordinate the use of unused
public land for seasonal community use (pop-up parks, gardens, art, etc.).
While we were working on revising the pollinator proposal that we discussed a few months ago,the city
newsletter came out that mentioned that Arden Hills participates in the GreenStep Cities program.And
one of the actions that we can take to advance in the program is to participate in a preservation and
recognition program such as Bee City USA.
The main questions are:
●How much do we care about our rating in the GreenStep Cities program?
○We can submit our own pollinator proposal to the city council and,if it passes,reach the 1
star level,or we can aim for the Bee City USA program,which could get us 3 stars (but at
a higher cost and with more steps to negotiate).
Best Practice Action 10.7
GreenStep City Best Practices: Land Use
Design for Natural Resource Conservation No. 10
Adopt development ordinances or processes that protect natural systems and valued
community assets.
Best Practice Action 7
Support and protect wildlife through habitat rehabilitation,preservation and recognition
programs.
●The National Wildlife Federation’s Community Wildlife Habitat program partners with cities,
neighborhoods,and communities of all kinds to become healthier,greener,and more
wildlife-friendly.Communities earn community-wide certification by certifying individual
properties (homes,parks,schools,businesses,and others)in their community as Certified
Wildlife Habitats and by doing education and outreach in their community.
●GreenStep worked with Audubon Minnesota to create a bird-friendly community recognition
program that counts actions cities have already taken in the GreenStep program.As of 2019
the GreenStep cities of Bemidji,Hastings,Northfield,La Crescent and St.Paul are
recognized as Minnesota Bird Cities.
●Bee City USA works to galvanize communities to sustain pollinators,in particular the more
than 3,600 species of native bees in this country,by increasing the abundance of native
plants, providing nest sites, and reducing the use of pesticides.
1 star Report city actions that strengthen the ecology for birds,pollinators,other wildlife and for native
plants;for example,replacing a dam with a spillway/rapids to restore and enhance fish passage and
habitat.
2 star Register and begin work on completing actions in the Bird City MN program,Bee City USA,
or/and the Community Wildlife Habitat program.
3 star Be recognized as a Bird City Minnesota, Bee City USA, or/and a certified Wildlife Habitat.
BEE CITY USA COMMITMENTS
Thinking globally and acting locally,Bee City USA provides a framework for communities to work together
to conserve native pollinators by increasing the abundance of native plants,providing nest sites,and
reducing the use of pesticides.
Bee City USA affiliates make commitments to conserve native pollinators,laid out in a resolution adopted
by the local city council.City staff and community members work together to carry out these commitments
and make their city a better place for pollinators.Incorporated cities,towns,counties,and communities
across the United States are invited to make these commitments and become Bee City USA affiliates.
Join the cities across the country rallying to protect pollinators and bring your community together to
create positive change!
Establish a standing Bee City USA committee to advocate for pollinators.
Every committee will be different,but should include individuals with experience and interests that will
help the committee complete the commitments.Committees generally include a mix of volunteers and city
staff.The committee should have a chair or multiple co-chairs.This committee should be managed either
by the affiliate (i.e.City or County)or a non-profit organization and should have a regular meeting
schedule that is open to the public. See the resolution for full requirements associated with the committee.
Create and enhance pollinator habitat on public and private land by increasing the abundance of
native plants and providing nest sites.
Creating or enhance pollinator habitat on public and private land each year.To assist with habitat creation
and provide guidance for the community,affiliates create a native plant list and native plant supplier list.
There’s no need to create these materials before applying,but they should be complete by your first
renewal. Guidance and examples will be provided to assist in developing each of these resources.
Reduce the use of pesticides.
Create and adopt an integrated pest management (IPM)plan designed to prevent pest problems,reduce
pesticide use,and expand the use of non-chemical pest management methods.Like the native plant list
and native plant supplier list, the IPM plan should be developed over the first few years of affiliation.
Incorporate pollinator-conscious practices into city policies and plans.
Establish a policy in the city’s comprehensive plan to acknowledge and commit to the Bee City USA
designation.Review the plan and other relevant documents to consider improvements to pest
management policies and practices as they relate to pollinator conservation,identify appropriate locations
for pollinator-friendly plantings, and consider other appropriate measures.
Host pollinator awareness events.
Host or co-host at least one pollinator awareness event each year.The focus of these events should be
native pollinators and the steps we can take to conserve them.
Publicly acknowledge Bee City USA affiliation with signs and an online presence.
Display at least one sign designating your community as a Bee City USA affiliate.Xerces provides the
artwork for these signs and encourages affiliates to work with local sign makers to have them printed.
Affiliates also commit to maintaining an online presence where they share information about their
activities as well as their native plant list, native plant supplier list, and integrated pest management plan.
Pay an initial application fee and annual renewal fee.
To sustain the Bee City USA program affiliates pay an application fee and annual renewal fees.These
fees are based on population.Visit the application page to learn more about fees.Renewal fees are the
same amount as the application fee.($200/year for Arden Hills)
Agenda Item 4-B
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Kristine Poelzer
SUBJECT: Park Restroom Locks
Background
A verbal update will be provided at the meeting discussing potential updates to restroom locks.
Attachment
Attachment A - park restroom timed open close doors
Date: 10/08/22
To: Marie Hinton, Chair, Arden Hills (AH) Parks, Trails,
Recreation Committee (PRTC)
From: Kristine Poelzer, AH PTRC member
Agenda item: Improvement Residents Park Use -
Request for PTRC discussion at October 18, 2022 meeting.
Intended motion: Complete cost feasibility to install
door automatic timer open/lock at Perry and Cummings
Parks restroom facilities and add to 2024 budget if not
capable to install sooner.
Background: In July I visited a Lakeville, MN, park and
noticed signs stating restroom doors automatically open
and close at certain times.
Currently AH Perry and Cummings parks’ indoor
restrooms aren't open unless the facilities/ball field are
rented and when the city holds an event. We don't have
staff nor police to manually open and close them every
day. The locked restrooms are useless the majority of the
time when they could be used every day by residents
using the parks and trails. The porta-potties at these two parks could then be used at other AH parks where
there currently are none.
Lakeville City Hall response to my inquiry: “We have installed automatic door locks to our restroom facilities
for some of the same reasons you mention. The system is fairly simple in design, but has worked well for us
for a number of years. The contractor that supplied and installed the door locks was Twin City Hardware (TCH)
out of Oakdale, MN. Generally speaking, we installed electronic door strikes that are controlled by a
timer. The wires needed to be run from the controller to each door which wasn’t too invasive for our park
buildings.
We continue to have keys that will unlock the door from the outside (in case of a power outage or other
reason the doors are not open when staff need to enter the room ). In addition, we continue to have an
operable handle on the inside of the door, to ensure someone could exit the room if the door strikes locked
while they were inside.
If you have any further questions, please contact me. Thank you.”
Mark Kruse, Parks Superintendent, City of Lakeville
Phone - 952-985-2715 Mobile- 952-985-2719
7570 179th Street, Lakeville, MN 55044
Agenda Item 4-C
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Steve Scott/Lucas Miller
SUBJECT: Review status of past PTRC Goals
Background
This item is a carryover to finish the discussion with all the members of the PTRC since there
was not a quorum at the October meeting.
PTRC presented their goals to the Mayor and Council earlier in the 2022 calendar year.
Action Requested
Mayor and Council would like a status update on goals that were presented to Council by the
PTRC. Please review the goals and note which are ongoing, accomplished, etc. Also note if there
were any major PTRC related accomplishments that may not have been a part of those goals that
we highlight those, as well.
Attachment
Attachment A - PTRC 2022 Work Plan
1 4/10/2022
Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committee (PTRC)
2022-23 Work Plan
PTRC Purpose and Mission
Parks, trails, recreation and natural resources in Arden Hills increase the desirability of the city as a place
to live, work, play, enhance the health and well-being of citizens and guests, and improve the value of
residents’ 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.
Main Duties
•Review and evaluate city parks, trails, and recreational services
•Advise staff and City Council of ways to maintain and improve these amenities
Meetings
•Third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.
Ongoing and as Needed
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, recommend, and monitor plans for parks, trails and recreation within Arden Hills at the
appropriate time.
5.Be apprised by staff and Council when plans are budgeted for park, trails, and recreation.
6.Continue to work with Ramsey County on mutually beneficial trail/park projects and activities.
7.Monitor potential road improvements to encourage inclusion of pedestrian-friendly
infrastructure whenever possible.
8.Look to enhance/add recreational opportunities in our parks.
9.Recommend future enhancements for the 5-year Capital Improvement Program each year.
10.Sponsor and organize Community events such as special events, garden clean-up day and other
volunteer projects.
11.Prepare and submit semi-regular content for the City Newsletter, City Facebook page and City
website.
2022 - 2023 Goals
•Work with City Council to identify areas where the PTRC could provide recommendations,
research or service to benefit the residents of Arden Hills. PTRC members have various areas of
expertise including: volunteer coordination, recreation, grant writing, knowledge of plant
species communications and event coordination.
2 4/10/2022
• Ensure that Arden Hills residents and visitors of all ages and physical abilities have recreation
opportunities.
• Encourage Arden Hills residents to enjoy the beautiful parks and trails that Arden Hills has to
offer.
• Continue to become more of a working committee.
• Actively seek opinions from residents on what they would like and report findings to the PTRC.
• PTRC members volunteer to serve as point-person/champion for each park and each trail and
recreation events. All members regularly visit the variety of parks and trails. The champion will
visit her/his park(s) and trails(s) on a regular basis to look for safety needs, maintenance needs,
etc.
• Follow a calendar throughout the year to ensure that there is a good mix of topics covered at
monthly PTRC meetings that become the foundation for next year’s work plan.
• Conduct structured meetings so that City Council, staff, and residents of Arden Hills easily learn
what was accomplished at meetings by reading minutes.
PARKS
1. Park Goals
a. Park improvements and amenities, including benches
b. Park clean up
c. Park maintenance
d. Park safety
2. Park Recommendation List
a. Perry Park dog park improvements: shade, obstacle course, subdivided for small and large dog
areas, concrete at entrances.
b. Identify areas where trees could be planted (in addition to Ash Tree buddy program if
applicable).
c. Invasive Buckthorn, Burdock week removal.
d. Earth Day Cleanup
e. Floral garden Cleanup
f. Swinging bench at Cummings to watch sunrise or sunset.
g. Update park map and information on website with new photos, amenities list and complete
street addresses that are needed for navigation apps.
TRAILS
3. Trail Goals
a. Trail maintenance
b. Trail improvements
c. Trail amenities
d. Trail safety
4. Trail Recommendations
a. Update trails maps on website
b. Connection gaps throughout Arden Hills
c. From County Road E2 North to Lake Valentine Road (C R “F”) and then West to MVHS (Youth+)
3 4/10/2022
d. From County Road “D” Northeast on lake Johanna Blvd, past Tony Schmidt Regional Park –
Ramsey County/METC (as trail building partner – 2 segments), See G, G1 & G2 on map) to
intersection with Snelling Avenue N (Families)
e. From Hwy 51 North to Snelling Avenue N intersection with County Road E/Lake Johanna Blvd
f. From County Road E North along Snelling Avenue N/Old Highway 10, under I-694 to Hwy 96
which now has a regional trail on the South side
g. Bethel University Land Sale: Trail move/redo with senior housing project
h. Trail along South Shore of Round lake
i. From County Road E/Lake Johanna Blvd along west side of Hwy 51 to Glenhill Ave
j. Crepeau nature Preserve Trails upgrade to improve drainage and to replace old surfaces. Add
Hamline Ave trail extension.
RECREATION
5. Recreation Goals
a. Enhance recreation opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages and physical abilities.
6. Recreation Recommendation
a. Winter activities in the parks
i. Sledding hills at parks where possible, especially Hazelnut and Cummings.
b. Add fitness equipment geared toward adults, especially at Cummings Park
i. Six exercise stations will be put in at the senior living facility. The trail will be constructed in
2022 and hopefully the equipment will be in by fall. This may be a good reference for future
projects.
c. More active adult and senior recreation classes and events.
i. Yoga/Fitness in the park at Cummings
d. Multi-generation activities (include some evenings and weekends).
i. Pickleball court at Hazelnut Park or Floral Park
ii. Multi-generation yoga
iii. Multi-generation dance - Possible location at Perry or Cummings if it is possible to move
picnic tables off of the Pavillion.
iv. Volleyball/badminton equipment (be aware of irrigation system)
v. Geocaching at the parks
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP
7. Community partnership goals
a. Outreach
b. Engagement
c. Events
8. Community partnership recommendation list
a. Community engagement
i. Committee members “adopt” an area, park, trail, project
ii. Animal ambassadors from Raptor Center (planned) or Minnesota Zoo
iii. Concerts in the parks: partner with schools and National Guard
iv. Tree placement outreach
b. Fill open spots on the committee
i. Recruit (in person, social media, newsletters, local bulletin boards, places of worship)
ii. Student committee ambassadors
4 4/10/2022
iii. Work with communications committee to highlight parks, trails, and recreation on social
media, YouTube, the newsletter and the City website
c. Arden Hills Foundation
i. Update donation letter business list to include new businesses
ii. Bench placement: track money for benches and create a plan to better track status and
placement.
d. Volunteer recruitment plan proposal
i. Reach out to Bethel University to explore possible partnerships for park cleanups, etc.
ii. Identify volunteer opportunities
PTRC Calendar
March 2022
• Work Plan
• Calendar
April 2022
• “Adopt” an area, park, trail, project, event, volunteer requests
• Discuss Clean-ups
• Work Plan: work session with City Council
May 2022
• Engagement plan
• Recruit new members plan
June 2022
• Park tour
July 2022
• Tree recommendations
• Park and trail maintenance, safety, improvement recommendations
• Bench recommendations
August 2022
• No meeting
September 2022
• 2023 Work Plan: Update trail recommendations
October 2022
• 2023 Work Plan: Update park recommendations
• Review membership terms
November 2022
• 2023 Work Plan: Update recreation recommendations
December 2022
• No meeting
5 4/10/2022
January 2023
• 2023 Work Plan: Update engagement recommendations
February 2023
• 2023 Work Plan: Update calendar
March 2023
• 2023 Work Plan
April 2023
• Work Plan: work session with City Council
Agenda Item 4-D
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Kristine Poelzer
SUBJECT: Rain Gardens
Background
A verbal update will be provided at the meeting discussing potential interest of members helping
with rain garden maintenance.
Director David Swearingen: "What we could benefit from is a group that would be willing to maintain the rain
gardens and inform the City what they need to implement the maintenance. Rain garden maintenance is in our Public
Works operational budget."
A. Ask city to include in mtg packet
A city map of rain garden locations, and a list of street addresses for rain gardens.
B. Open topic for discussion of interest of members in helping with rain gardens.
C. Discussion of seeking involvement of neighbors living near rain gardens to help with maintenance.
Agenda Item 4-E
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Jill Anderson
SUBJECT: BWSR Pilot Program
Background
A verbal update will be provided at the meeting.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Mary Juhl; 612-358-5733
BWSR Accepting Applications for Habitat Enhancement
Landscape Pilot Program
New program aims to restore and enhance habitat for pollinators, beneficial
insects
November 2, 2022
St. Paul, Minn. – The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) is now accepting
grant applications for a new program that will benefit pollinator and beneficial insect species’ habitat.
The Habitat Enhancement Landscape Pilot Program (HELP) offers cost-share grants for projects on
lands with long-term commitments to conservation management through conservation easements,
Agenda Item 4-E
long-term conservation contracts and public ownership. Eligible lands include those with Reinvest in
Minnesota (RIM) Reserve easements, Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) easements, non-profit
conservation preserves, city and county parks, and protected natural areas. Eligible applicants
include soil and water conservation districts, watershed districts, watershed management
organizations and counties.
“The decline of bees, butterflies, dragonflies and other at-risk pollinators that support ecosystems
and food production has raised significant alarm among conservation professionals both locally and
globally,” said BWSR Executive Director John Jaschke. “It’s critical that we support these beneficial
species by restoring and enhancing habitat in strategic areas of the state.”
Funded by the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, the HELP pilot program is offering
$273,740 in grant funding during this application period. Grant amount requests can range from
$20,000 to $60,000. Projects may focus on establishing new floral-rich habitat areas or riparian
plantings, or converting existing non-native cover to native vegetation. Projects can be located on
multiple land parcels.
Applications will be accepted until Feb. 23, 2023. Information on how to apply can be found on the
program’s Request for Proposals on BWSR’s website.
###
BWSR is the state soil and water conservation agency, and it administers programs that prevent
sediment and nutrients from entering our lakes, rivers, and streams; enhance fish and wildlife
habitat; and protect wetlands. The 20-member board consists of representatives of local and state
government agencies and citizens. BWSR’s mission is to improve and protect Minnesota's water
and soil resources by working in partnership with local organizations and private landowners.
Agenda Item 4-F
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Lucas Miller, Assistant Public Works Director
SUBJECT: January and February Revised Meeting Dates
Background
Due to conflicts with Holidays and Council meetings in January and February, the proposed
meeting dates for PTRC are now 1/24/23 and 2/28/23.
Agenda Item 4-G
MEMORANDUM
DATE:November 15, 2022
TO:Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee
FROM:Lucas Miller, Assistant Public Works Director
SUBJECT: Term Limits
Background
Resignations update:
Micah Kiernan
Suzanne McGaugh
Paul Beggin
All other members whose terms expire in 2022 have requested to renew their terms.
Timothy Nelson has not been in attendance.