HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-04-08 Park Board PacketAGENDA
CITY OF EDINA, MINNESOTA
PARK BOARD MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
7:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
II. ROLL CALL
III. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
IV. ADOPTION OF CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes — Regular meeting on Tuesday, March 11, 2014
V. COMMUNITY COMMENT
During "Community Comment, " the Park Board will invite residents to share relevant
issues or concerns. Individuals must limit their comments to three minutes. The
Chair may limit the number of speakers on the same issue in the interest of time and
topic. Generally speaking, items that are elsewhere on tonight's agenda may not be
addressed during Community Comment. Individuals should not expect the Chair or
Board Members to respond to their comments tonight. Instead, the Board might refer
the matter to staff for consideration at a future meeting.
VI. REPORTS/RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail Update
B. Pamela Park Site Plan
C. Minnesota Wild at Braemar Arena
D. National Kids to Parks Day
E. Community Education Services Board Member
VII. CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS
A. Council Updates
B. Other Correspondence
C. Veteran's Memorial Committee, January 17, 2014 Minutes
VIII. CHAIR AND BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
IX. STAFF COMMENTS
X. ADJOURNMENT
The city of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public process. If you need
assistance in the way of hearing amplification, an interpreter, large -print documents or something,
please call 952-927-8861 72 hours in advance of the meeting.
MINUTES
OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
EDINA PARK BOARD
HELD AT CITY HALL
March 11, 2014
7:00 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Steel called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.
II. WELCOME NEW PARK BOARD MEMBERS
Chair Steel welcomed the three members. Each of the three new members, Thomas Downing, Gerry
Greene, and Brenda McCormick, introduced themselves to the board.
111. ROLL CALL
Answering roll call were Members Jones, Deeds, Downing, Greene, Jacobson, McCormick, Segreto,
Steel.
Absent were Members Cella and Gieseke
Student Members present: Good, Johnson.
IV. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Member Segreto made a motion, seconded by Member Deeds, to approve the meeting agenda.
Ayes: Members Jones, Deeds, Downing, Greene, Jacobson, McCormick, Segreto, Steel.
Motion carried.
is V. ADOPTION OF CONSENT AGENDA
Member Deeds made a motion, seconded by Member Segreto, to approve the consent agenda as
follows:
W.A. Approval of Minutes — Regular Park Board Meeting of February 11, 2014
Ayes: Members Jones, Deeds, Downing, Greene, Jacobson, McCormick, Segreto, Steel.
Motion carried.
VI. COMMUNITY COMMENT
Stephen Sando, 5133 Juanita Avenue, thanked the Park Board for their work and suggested the
waterfalls at Arden Park should be named when the bridge is reconstructed. He also suggested looking
at new landscaping in the area.
VII. REPORTS/RECOMMENDATIONS
VII.A. Pamela Park Site Plan and Shelter Building Review
Ms. Kattreh introduced the two consultants working on the Pamela Park site plan: Jay Pomeroy
(Anderson -Johnson Associates) and Becca Staley (Wendel Architecture, Inc.).
Mr. Pomeroy began the presentation by noting the charge is to improve the parking, trail system, and a
couple athletic fields. He discussed the various changes to the parking lot and athletic fields. He noted
construction is targeted to begin mid-May. The synthetic field is slated to be done mid-August; the
other field has to be seeded and will be ready the following year.
In response to a question about bike racks, Mr. Pomeroy noted that level of detailed planning has not
occurred yet.
Ms. Kattreh pointed out a couple of changes from the plan the Park Board saw last fall. The size of the
artificial turf field was widened in order to maximize the lighted use of the field. The use of the field will
be doubled. She also pointed out the playground equipment was installed in 2009.
Ms. Kattreh noted the fields will be out of commission this year, and great efforts are being made to
accommodate all teams at other locations in Edina.
Ms. Staley presented additional details of the shelter building, noting the nearby well has really shaped
the configuration of the new building. She pointed out the interior finishes, including a fireplace.
Member Segreto asked whether RFPs include a standardized checklist to ensure certain basic features
are included like an outdoor water fountain and Wi-Fi. Ms. Kattreh noted a checklist would be great
moving forward; the city has worked with Wendel on other projects, and so there has been some
consistency. She noted Wi-Fi was included at Countryside, and it is a goal for Pamela Park as well, if the
budget allows.
Member Segreto asked about green efforts on this building. Ms. Staley responded there will be energy
efficient lighting as well as consideration with energy efficiency and plumbing.
Member Jacobson asked about adequate restrooms for three soccer fields running simultaneously. Ms.
Kattreh indicated staff will look at the restrooms.
Member Jacobson asked about direct access for a truck to access wells in the winter time. Ms. Staley
responded the north end where the well is housed will continue to be a parking lot.
Member Johnson commented additional bathrooms may not be needed, as people do not expect to
have bathrooms at a soccer game.
Ms. Kattreh indicated the keyless entry plan would allow staff to open doors remotely during practices
and competitions. Keys can also be issued, which can be activated and deactivated from the city offices.
Member Jones suggested a landscape architect draw up locations for park benches and trees that could
be added through donations.
Member Segreto made a motion, seconded by Member Deeds, to recommend generally the Pamela
Park site plan and shelter building design as presented this evening, with the addition of an outdoor
water fountain on the building and a study to review the number of bathrooms in the building and
designate where certain plantings, trees, and benches might be located in concert with a donation
from the public.
Ayes: Members Jones, Deeds, Downing, Greene, Jacobson, McCormick, Segreto, Steel.
Motion carried.
VII.B. 2013 Parks & Recreation Department Recap
Ms. Kattreh gave a recap of some projects done in Parks & Recreation in 2013 including the creation of
a mission statement, high public satisfaction ratings from the public, and all types of events and rentals
at Centennial Lakes. She also highlighted the reopening of the Golf Dome and discussed the significant
activity at the Braemar Ice Arena in 2013. She also highlighted that Edinborough Park made money for
the first time in 2013 and reviewed the renovations. She discussed the increased Art Center
registrations as well as technology upgrades, and then discussed the several projects underway in
2014.
VII.C. Board and Commission Blog
Ms. Kattreh asked whether any Park Board members desired to contribute to a blog being formed by
the city's various boards and commissions.
Chair Steel offered to write updates from the Park Board perspective.
Chair Steel made a motion, seconded by Member Deeds, that the Park Board participates in a blog
with other boards and commissions.
Ayes: Members Jones, Deeds, Downing, Greene, Jacobson, McCormick, Segreto, Steel.
Motion carried.
VILD. Nine Mile Creek Trail Meetings
Ms. Kattreh noted there will be a joint meeting on June 19 with the Three Rivers Park District to discuss
and approve trail alignment, and she asked whether the Park Board would like to keep the existing
June 10 meeting to discuss regular business items.
Several members discussed that scheduling an additional meeting where action will be taken is not
ideal.
VILE. Election of Officers
Ms. Kattreh asked for nominations for chair and vice -chair.
Member Steel made a motion, seconded by Member Segreto, to nominate Dan Gieseke as chair of the
Park Board.
Member Segreto made a motion, seconded by Member Deeds, to close the nominations for the chair.
Ayes: Members Jones, Deeds, Downing, Greene, Jacobson, McCormick, Segreto, Steel.
Motion carried.
Dan Gieseke is the new chair of the Park Board
Member Steel made a motion, seconded by Member Deeds, to nominate Ellen Jones as vice chair of
the Park Board.
Member Deeds made a motion, seconded by Member Steel, to close nominations.
Ayes: Jones, Deeds, Downing, Greene, Jacobson, McCormick, Segreto, Steel.
Motion carried.
Ellen Jones is the new vice -chair of the Park Board.
Vlll. CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS
VIIIA. Council Updates
No discussion.
VIII.B. Correspondence and Petitions
No discussion.
IX. CHAIR AND BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
Chair Steel congratulated the Edina High School Boys' Hockey Team.
X. STAFF COMMENTS
Ms. Kattreh made the following comments: staff continues to work with the Minnesota Wild practicing
at Braemar Arena; an EAW petition has been filed regarding the closure of Fred Richards Golf Course;
90 fixtures are being retrofitted for LED lighting, resulting in an annual cost savings of $43,000; a grant
was received for the "Starting New at Golf (SNAG)" program.
XI. ADJOURNMENT
Chair Steel made a motion, seconded by Member Deeds, to adjourn the meeting at 8:33 p.m.
Ayes: Members Jones, Deeds, Downing, Greene, Jacobson, McCormick, Segreto, Steel.
Motion Carried.
The meeting adjourned at 8:33 p.m.
4
To: Park Board
From: Ann Kattreh
Parks & Recreation Director
Date: April 8, 2014
Subject: Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail Update
Agenda Item #: VI.A.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Action Requested:
Receive presentation from Three Rivers Park District staff regarding the status of the Nine Mile Creek
Regional Trail.
Information / Background:
The Three Rivers Park District team would like to provide an update on the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail.
Three Rivers Park District has the following timeline for this project:
Engineering Evaluation
Screening Meetings
Update to Edina Park Board/Transportation Commission
Identification of Final Trail Alignment
Joint Park Board/Transp. Comm. Review of Design/Alignment
City Council Review/Approval of Final Trail Design/Alignment
Preliminary Engineering Complete
Construction Documents
Regional Trail Agreement with City
Out to Bid
Construction Begins
Construction Completed
Trail Opens
Now — April
Now — May
April 2014
June 2014
June 19, 2014
July I, 2014
September 2014
December 2014
Fall 2014
January 2015
Early 2015
Early 2017
Spring 2017
The Park District has secured $6 million in Federal and State Legacy Grants for the East Segment and is
currently seeking federal funds for the West Segment. The district has decided to design and construct the
trail as one project instead of independently. This approach will save over 10% in project costs. The entire
project is expected to cost $22 million.
Attachments:
Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail Update — Edina City Council Work Session March 4, 2014
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
Presentation Outline:
• Where we've been...
Recap of route assessment process and approved route
• Where We are now...
- Summary of preliminary engineering
- Description of public participation process
• Where we are going...
- Anticipated design and construction timeline
• Questions
i
Nine Mile Creek RT:
Critical link in the
Regional'Trail Network
Links Edina to:
• Minnesota River Bluffs RT
• Lake Minnetonka RT
• Cedar Lake RT
• North Cedar Lake RT
• Intercity RT
• MN River Valley State Trail
• SW LRT
• MOA
• MSP
• Edina HS
A
Three Rivers Park District ( Regional Trail System
'Z.. o�.n-.aw.•.exn
(Vine Mile Creek Regional Trail
15 -mile shared use path from Hopkins to Bloomington
2
Initial Route Identification
• Extensive Public Engagement Process: (2008 - 2010)
• Focused on choosing between road -adjacent and park land
segments.
• Five open houses
• Community Assessment Team
• Joint Three Rivers Board/City Council Workshop
• Environmental Assessment Worksheet: (2008 - 2010)
• Voluntary EAW conducted By Three Rivers
• Negative declaration of the Need for an Environmental Impact
Statement (EIS).
• Route Approval by City of Edina
• Edina Park Board Review & Recommendation - Oct 2010
• City Council Review & Approval of Route Dec 2010
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City Council Approval: Restrictions & Conditions
1. Keep the trail on the south side of Walnut Ridge Park.
2. That Three Rivers Park District makes all reasonable efforts in
the engineering/design phase to minimize boardwalk noise
and height.
3. That Three Rivers Park District offers to provide homeowners
with principle residences adjacent to the proposed regional
trail edge the option to have buffers where reasonable and at
Three River's expense. Buffer options are fencing or
vegetative screening (trees, shrubs).
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City Council Approval: Restrictions & Conditions
1. Keep the trail on the south side of Walnut Ridge Park.
2. That Three Rivers Park District makes all reasonable efforts in
the engineering/design phase to minimize boardwalk noise
and height.
3. That Three Rivers Park District offers to provide homeowners
with principle residences adjacent to the proposed regional
trail edge the option to have buffers where reasonable and at
Three River's expense. Buffer options are fencing or
vegetative screening (trees, shrubs).
.19
•
City Council Approval: Conditions
4. That Three Rivers Park District take reasonable steps to
minimize the amount of boardwalks in the complex balancing
act that also attempts to minimize the impact on the
environment (wetlands, water quality, and vegetation).
5. Place a time limit deadline on the easements offered to Three
Rivers Park District to complete the project within a
reasonable time frame. A reasonable time limit should be
negotiated with Three Rivers Park District and that language
should be included in the final agreement.
6. That the final design shall minimize property impacts and be
subject to Council approval.
7. That a reasonable sound wall be constructed for Segment 19
that was satisfactory to the City.
Since 2010
• Obtained approval from Edina School Board(to I
locate the trail on their property.
• Obtained Metropolitan Council approval of the
official Master Plan for the trail.
• Secured $6 million in Federal grants for East
Segment construction in 2015/16, along with MN
State Legacy Grants to help pay for the project.
• Currently seeking additional Federal funds for
construction of West Segment.
5
Preliminary Engineering
• Technical evaluation and refinement of the
preferred route
• External agency coordination and permitting
• Public participation
• Easement acquisition process
• 60% plans and engineer's estimate of probable cost
External agency coordination and permitting I
• TRPD and SEH have already begun coordination:
- Nine Mile Creek Watershed District
- City of Edina
- MnDOT
- Edina School District
- Board of Water and Soil Resources
- US Army Corps of Engineers
- Minnesota DNR
r:,
Preliminary Engineering: Public Participation
• The trail will be located to maximize distance from adjacent
residences and to minimize the length and height of
boardwalks within the confines of engineering and regulatory
constraints.
• Public participation will focus on what the City Council
directed:
"to provide homeowners with principle residences adjacent to
the proposed regional trail edge the option to have buffers
where reasonable and at Three River's expense. Buffer options
are fencing or vegetative screening (trees, shrubs)."
Preliminary Enaineerina: Public Participation
Screening:
• Logical trail segments identified based on natural groupings of
adjacent residents.
• One or two meetings with the adjacent neighbors for each trail
segment to identify preferred screening options.
• Three Rivers will provide a choice of three types of fence (Privacy,
split rail & chain link) or vegetative screening (typically conifers).
• Selected screening will be installed on adjacent resident's property
and will become the responsibility of the property owner once
installed.
• Consistency among neighbors on selected screening preferred but
not required.
7
Communication During Design
- TRPD website: ninemilecreektrail.org
• Post all engineering documents as they are produced
• FAQ page based on questions received as this stage moves
forward.
• Contact information
• Upcoming public meetings
• Invitation to receive email alerts of when the site is updated
• Monthly updates to City Council via City Manager's Friday Report
• Direct communication with adjacent neighbors as part of the
screening discussions.
• Scheduled Edina Park Board,, Transportation Commission/City Council
meetings (see timeline)
Communication During Construction
Similar to Design phase, with the following additions:
• Website will post construction schedule and updates to that schedule.
• Website will include information on what to expect during
construction.
• Direct mailings (postcards) to adjacent neighbors prior to active
construction in a specific area.
• Consistent and dependable on-site presence by Three Rivers and
consultants.
Fn
Timeline: 2014 Design Schedule
• Engineering evaluation: Now - April
• Screening meetings: Now - May
• Update to Edina Park Board/Tspt Committee: April
• - Identification of final trail alignment: June
• Joint Park Board/Tspt Com. review of design/alignment: 6/19/14
• City Council review/approval of final trail design/alignment: 7/01/14
• Preliminary engineering complete: Sept
• Construction Documents: Dec
• Regional Trail Agreement with the City Fall
• Out to bid: Jan 2015
9
Primary Contact
For complex projects, Three Rivers has a point person
for all questions and comments. Please direct all
inquiries and comments to:
Jason McGrew -King
763-559-6779
JMcGrew-King@threeriversparkdistrict.org
10
i
9
Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail Update
Edina Park Board
April 8, 2014
Presentation Outline:
Update on preliminary engineering
- Brief overview of entire route
- Highlight potential route changes
- "Close-ups" of Walnut Ridge Park, Bredesen Park, and
Edina High School
• Description of public participation efforts
• Anticipated design and construction
timeline
• Questions
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Preliminary Engineering: Public Participation
® The trail will be located to maximize distance from adjacent
residences and to minimize the length and height of
boardwalks within the confines of engineering and regulatory
constraints.
® Public participation will focus on what the City Council
d i rected :
"to provide homeowners with principle residences adjacent to
the proposed regional trail edge the option to have buffers
where reasonable and at Three River's expense. Buffer options
are fencing or vegetative screening (trees, shrubs). "
Preliminary Engineering: Public Participation
Screening:
• Logical trail segments identified based on natural groupings of
adjacent residents within 50 feet of proposed trail edge
• One or two
meetings with the
adjacent
neighbors for each trail
segment to
identify preferred
screening
options.
• Three Rivers will provide a choice of three types of fence (Privacy,
split rail & chain link) or vegetative screening (typically conifers).
• Selected screening will be installed on adjacent resident's property
and will become the responsibility of the property owner once
installed.
• Consistency among neighbors on selected screening preferred but
not required.
Timeline: 2014 Design Schedule
• Engineering evaluation: Now - April
• Screening meetings: Now - May
• Update to Edina Park Board/Transportation Committee: April
• Identification of final trail alignment: June
• Joint Park Board/Tspt Com. review of design/alignment: 6/19/14
• City Council review/approval of final trail design/alignment: 7/01/14
• Preliminary engineering complete: Sept
• Construction Documents: Dec
• Regional Trail Agreement with the City Fall
• Out to bid: Jan 2015
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Primary Contact
For complex projects, Three Rivers has a point person
for all questions and comments. Please direct all
inquiries and comments to:
Jason McGrew -King
763-559-6779
JMcGrew-King@threeriversparkdistrict.org
To: Park Board
From: Ann Kattreh
Parks & Recreation Director
Date: April 8, 2014
Subject: Pamela Park Site Plan
Action Requested:
Provide review and comment on the Pamela Park site plan.
ow
rYc�RPORI`t/
1888
Agenda Item #: VI.B.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Information / Background:
The Pamela Park site plan and shelter building were reviewed at the March I I Park Board meeting. After the
meeting, Anderson Johnson, Inc discovered some issues with trail approvals from the Minnehaha Creek
Watershed District. The district provided review and recommendations. Jay Pomeroy from Anderson
Johnson will be at the meeting to present an alternate trail plan. The main differences in the trail are that the
nature trail on the east edge of the park will remain and the surface quality will be improved, if the budget
allows. The length of the paved trail increased slightly from .8 mile to I mile and it stays to the west of the
new athletic fields. There will still be connections on the north and south end of the park to 58th and 62nd
streets.
A master plan of Pamela Park was completed in 2009. This information was updated in 2013. A working
group was formed; it was made up of 10 neighborhood and athletic association representatives and staff.
The group met on February 12, 2014 and February 18, 2014 to review the preliminary plans and provide
feedback and suggestions on the overall project.
The site plan includes:
• Renovation of the north field to a sand peat field (180' x 360') including drain tile and irrigation
• Re -grading grass field (300'x 160') to provide practice field
• Renovating senior lighted field to an artificial turf field (100,560 SF)
• Adding hard path trails around park
• Expanding parking lots on north, west and south sides of the park
Recommendation
Staff is seeking feedback on the site plan. If recommended by the Park Board, the plan will be presented to
City Council at the April 22, 2014 meeting when we will ask the City Council to authorize the
advertisement of the first bid package.
The City Council with thoroughly and thoughtfully consider your action on this matter at their April 22
meeting. Staff requests the Park Board consider the proposed plans and provide one of three actions:
City of Edina • 4801 W. 501h St. • Edina, MN 55424
REPORT / RECOMMENDATION
I. Recommend (generally support)
2. Do not recommend (do not support)
3. Recommend with specific changes
Attachments:
2014 Pamela Park Revised Site Plan
2014 Pamela Park Site Plan — North
2014 Pamela Park Site Plan - South
Page 2
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To: Park Board
From: Susie Miller
Braemar Arena General Manager
Date: April 8, 2014
Subject: Minnesota Wild, Braemar Arena
Agenda Item #: VI.C.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Action Requested:
Provide a recommendation to City Council regarding the proposed remodel of existing space at Braemar
Arena. The remodel would consist of a locker room for the Minnesota Wild, as well as remodeled and
repurposed space for the community.
Information / Background:
The Minnesota Wild is looking for a permanent practice facility when the Xcel Energy Center is not available
to them due to concerts or other non -ice events. The Minnesota Wild is considering Braemar Arena
because many of the players live nearby or in Edina. Several players participated in a fall warm-up camp that
was offered at Braemar Arena by Octagon Hockey in 2013. The players that participated enjoyed their
experience at Braemar Arena.
Staff invited the Minnesota Wild to practice at Braemar this season as needed. Since February 17, 2014 the
Minnesota Wild utilized the Braemar West Arena and the boys JV locker room in the Hornet's Nest for
37.5 hours of practice.
The Minnesota Wild has worked with an architect to confirm that the space available at Braemar will meet
their needs for training and locker room space. The anticipated renovation cost is just over $1,000,000.
The facilities will include:
• 2,000 square foot locker room for players and coaches
• Space for two offices for staff
• Player lounge
Braemar Arena offers the Minnesota Wild an ice sheet as well as the Velocity Training Center to meet their
off -ice needs. The impact of construction of the new Minnesota Wild locker room will be limited to a few
community areas in the West Arena.
As a result of the construction, Braemar Arena would be enhanced with the following:
• One new locker room with restroom and shower facilities
• One remodeled locker room with restroom and shower facilities
• One new office area
City of Edina • 4801 W. 501h St. • Edina, MN 55424
REPORT / RECOMMENDATION Page 2
New Minnesota Wild player lounge which would also serve as a meeting space for the public
Remodeled storage space
The space that is impacted by construction is on the south end of both the upper and lower levels of the
West Arena. At this time all areas that are impacted are in need of remodeling and improvements to meet
ADA requirements. The Minnesota Wild would cover the costs of design and construction to replace the
areas that are affected.
On Monday, March 31 we sent a contract/lease agreement to the Minnesota Wild to lease the space needed
to construct the locker rooms.
The addition of the Minnesota Wild locker room would be financially beneficial to the arena through
additional lease revenues as well as ice sales. The space that is impacted has limited use due to the addition
of the Hornet's Nest. Of the 37.5 ice hours sold so far, just two of those hours were during prime time.
The majority of their ice needs are during the school day when most of the ice remains unused.
Recommendation
Staff is seeking feedback on this proposal. If recommended by the Park Board, the proposal will be
presented to City Council at the April 22, 2014 meeting when we will ask the council to approve the lease
agreement with the Minnesota Wild as well as the plan to repurpose the upper and lower level spaces on
the south end of the West Arena.
The City Council will thoroughly and thoughtfully consider your action on this matter at their April 22
meeting. Staff requests the Park Board consider the proposed plans and provide one of three actions:
I. Recommend (generally support)
2. Do not recommend (do not support)
3. Recommend with specific changes
Attachments:
Arena Lower Level Wild Plan
Arena Upper Level Wild Plan
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To: Park Board
From: Kristin Aarsvold
Recreation Supervisor
Date: April 8, 2014
Subject: National Kids to Parks Day
Action Requested:
None
o e-
v � _ �y
• r COR V19 •
1888
Agenda Item #: VI.D.
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information 0
Information / Background:
The city was approached by the National Park Trust with a request to adopt a Proclamation promoting
the 4th annual National Kids to Parks Day on Saturday, May 17, 2014. The Parks & Recreation
Department will be hosting this event on Saturday, May 17 at Rosland Park from 10 a.m. — noon.
The event will feature:
• Three Rivers Park District Sampler- including live animals from the Richardson Nature Center;
chickens from Gale Woods Farm; nature inspired digital camera scavenger hunt from Silverwood
Park; historical artifact challenge with a costumed interpreter from The Landing; slacklining and
archery from The Outdoor Recreation School
• A bike rodeo from the Minnesota Bike Alliance along with bike trail information
• Camping trends and tips from Hoiigards
• A family Frisbee "play shop" with Cool Planet
• Bike helmet/safety from Penn Cycle and Fairview Southdale Hospital
• "Make your own Trail Mix" and eating well for active living from Fairview Southdale Hospital
• SNAG Golf from Braemar Golf Course
• Fishing at the pier
In addition, a Proclamation will be given at the April 22, 2014 City Council meeting.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 501h St. • Edina, MN 55424
0
REPORT / RECOMMENDATION
Page 2
A PROCLAMATION
NATIONAL KIDS TO PARKS DAY: SATURDAY, MAY 17, 2014
WHEREAS, May 17, 2014 is the fourth National Kids to Parks Day organized and launched by the National
Park Trust; and
WHEREAS, National Kids to Parks Day empowers kids and encourages families to get outdoors and visit
America's parks; and
WHEREAS, it is important to introduce a new generation to our nation's parks because of the decline in
park attendance over the last decades; and
WHEREAS, we should encourage children to lead a more active lifestyle to combat the issues of
childhood obesity, diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia; and
WHEREAS, National Kids to Parks Day is open to all children and adults across the country to encourage a
large and diverse group of participants; and
• WHEREAS, National Kids to Parks Day will broaden children's appreciation for nature and the outdoors;
and
NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of Edina, Minnesota does hereby proclaim to participate in National
Kids to Parks Day. The City Council of Edina urges residents of Edina to attend the National Kids to Parks
Day event at Rosland Park on Saturday, May 17, 2014 from 10 a.m. — noon.
IN WITNESS WHEROF, I have herunto set by hand and caused the Seal of the City of Edina to be affixed
this 22nd day of April, 2014
James B. Hovland, Mayor
To: Park Board
From: Ann Kattreh
Parks & Recreation Director
Date: April 8, 2014
Subject: Community Education Services Board Member
Action Requested:
Appoint a new member to the Community Education Services Board
Information / Background:
Agenda Item #: VI.E.
Action x❑
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Louise Segreto has been representing the Park Board on the Community Education Services Board for the
past two years. Due to time constraints, she has asked to be replaced by another Park Board member.
The meetings are from 7:30 — 9 a.m. on the second Thursday of September, October, November, February,
March, April and May. The term is typically three years.
The Community Education Services Board consists of the following members.
I . The chairperson, or his/her council member designee, from each of the various community service
advisory councils (Edina Family Center, Edina Kids Club, Adult Enrichment, Youth Development, and
Community Resource Pool).
2. One member of the Edina Board of Education and one member from the Edina City Council.
3. One member of the Edina Park Board.
4. Three community representatives at large, one to be appointed by the Edina City Council, the Edina
Board of Education, and one to be appointed by the Community Education Services Board.
5. The Director of Community Education Services who shall serve as an ex -officio, non-voting member
and as principal staff officer.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
To: Park Board
From: Ann Kattreh
Parks & Recreation Director
Date: April 8, 2014
Subject: Council Updates
Action Requested:
No Action is Necessary.
Information / Background:
• ,,�ORYOIaiCF'O
iaea
Agenda Item #: VILA.
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information x❑
Please see the City Council Updates from their March 18 and April I, City Council Meetings.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 501h St. • Edina, MN 55424
City Council Updates
March 18, 2014
• Received the report of the Grandview Community Advisory Team regarding the Redevelopment
Strategy for the former Public Works & Parks Maintenance site in the Grandview District.
• Denied a request to prepare an Environmental Assessment Worksheet on the proposal to close
the Fred Richards Golf Course.
• Approved a set of staff recommendations for changes to the City's Golf operations, including the
closure of the Fred Richards Golf Course at the end of the 2014 golf season.
• The Council's action on the golf course and the Pentagon Park Project were the culmination of a
great amount of time and energy from staff, consultant and Council Members. They represent
significant policy decisions that will impact the community for many years to come.
April 1, 2014
• Approved the $125,070 purchase of a new Zamboni ice resurfacer for Braemar Arena.
• Approved a professional services contract with Herfort Norby to design improvements to the
Braemar Golf Course driving range and executive course. The improvements are part of the
City's overall plan to improve municipal golf operations. The improvements are expected to
cost in the range of $1.2 to $1.5 million dollars. We hope to break ground later this fall.
• Declared April 22, 2014 to be Earth Day in Edina.
• Approved the first reading of a new ordinance that will impose a 3 percent lodging taxes on
rooms rented at Edina hotels. The revenue from this new tax will fund a new organization called
Explore Edina, which will be a subsidiary of the Edina Chamber of Commerce. Explore Edina will
focus its efforts on marketing and tourism development for Edina.
ow e tit
• l�CORPOIi!`�wO •
11388
To: Park Board Agenda Item #: VII.B.
From: Ann Kattreh
Parks & Recreation Director
Date: April 8, 2014
Subject: Other Correspondence
Action Requested:
No action is necessary.
Information / Background:
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information ❑x
Attached is the most recent correspondence regarding the Fred Richards Golf Course.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
-4Fred Richards Golf Course Correspondence C
(From part of March 11 to March 26, 2014)
Fifth set of emai/s/correspondence
NNN N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N NN N N.. N.. N N N N N N N NNNNN
Date: February 7,2014
To: Scott Neal
From: John Lundquist
Subject: Fred Richards Golf Course
I am writing this to encourage you to keep Fred Richards as a golf
course. It is a great course for the medium skilled golfers. There are 8
leagues that play at Fred Richards and if the course closes a number
of them will end. While they might be able to transfer their league to
another location it is very doubtful they could maintain their current
tee times and would result in losing members. Included in this is the
youth golfers. It represents quality of life to a great number of men
and women. Further, the Edina Senior League pays in advance rather
than each time we play. The City has use of the money whether an
individual plays every week or not.
A while ago Sue Weigle brought me over to a Park Board meeting to
offer suggestions to grow use of Fred Richards. I offered a number of
suggestions that would help this. I noticed a number of heads
nodding in agreement as I was talking. Unfortunately nothing was
implemented. None of the suggestions were big cost items.
I don't feel offering Braemar is a realistic answer. A lot of Fred
Richards golfers would not be comfortable playing there.
Finally, this is part of the quality of life that Edina is known for.
It is exercise, fellowship, and being active. Keep it as a golf course
and let's take steps to improve it visibility and use.
Thank you
John W. Lundquist
7220 York Ave South #309
Edina, MN 55435
ik@cncask
cc to: Ann Kattreh
N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N NNN
RE: Closure of Fred Richards Golf course
Dear Mayor James Hovland, City Manager Scott Neal, Parkboard Director Ann Kattreh, and Council Members:
I have been a city of Edina resident for 44 years and currently live at 7505 Kellogg Avenue S (on the cul de sac)
next to the park and Fred Richards golf course. I realize you have heard from me before, but I must reiterate my
points of concern regarding the above:
1) If the intention is to turn the Fred Richards property into a park, what is the price tag of the
development, bonds, and the yearly maintenance costs? This decision is ostensibly about saving
money, or is it? As I said in my previous letter, parks do not pay for themselves.
2) I understand that a master plan is in the future, but money is not available; if this is true, how can a
financial decision be made about the future without a plan? Plan FIRST, DO Later. If a detailed plan is
designed and accepted and you then need fiscal donations? I will be first in line. Do diligent planning.
3) Pentagon Office design: I believe the finality of a design is being pushed and perhaps orchestrated by
the developers of Pentagon Office Park. City/Developer talks did occur at least a year before any public
meetings in which designs were disclosed to the public. Even an amateur can see that a park design
would be in their best interest, and of course they have a vested interest in the future of the land. An
investment of $500,000,000 is a quess,at best. Maybe that is in inflated dollars considering a
development time for the 77th street section may take 10-15 years, but even so, what's the rush? I will
say that Mayor Hovland appeared to be the only person that seemed to grasp this vision.
4) We've had open hearings and again heard the same presentation by Scott Neal (not elected)
which does not address the many questions asked. The decision to close Fred Richards cannot be
made without answering one fundamental question: What will become of the space?
5) In summary, my discussions with neighbors and my own concerns leave me with the feeling that these
hearings are an exercise without merit. We've been given a pitch that Edina's golf courses (i.e. Braemar)
are losing money and that closing Fred Richards will "save" them. We know this is a farce.
6) What are our options? Few; remember it is election time. Legal action? This is unnecessary.
Sincerely,
Art Lowell
p.s. After speaking with many of my neighbors, their feelings of anger, frustration, and distrust of
this whole process are obvious. At the risk of sounding paranoid, and speaking only for myself, there
is an undercurrent of deceit regarding the fate of Fred Richards. It seems a decision has already
been made by a few that potentially negatively affects the many.
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
From: Marnie Gaasedelen [mailto:mgaas@aol com]
Sent: Wednesday, March 26, 2014 12:16 PM
To: Edina Mail
Cc: mark@ciaasgoid.com
Subject: Closing of Fred Richards golf course
Dear City Council,
I watched part of a replay of a city council meeting last night in which it was voted to close the above golf
course. Mayor Hovland's idea of putting off the decision for a year made SO much sense to me under the
circumstances. I'm very disappointed that the rest of the council chose not to follow his lead, as mayor,
and delay the decision for a few months.
I am a middle aged, non -athletic women who receives glares, stares, and under the breath swears when
I'm on a golf course, but I really enjoy being outdoors and TRYING to golf. As I approach my senior
years, I had looked forward to spending more time pursuing this interest but wouldn't consider trying to
improve my golf game (or lack thereof) at Braemar. I really liked Mayor Hovland's comparison of Fred
patrons as similar to ice skaters who wouldn't fit into the hockey or figure skating profile but, nevertheless,
enjoy being on the ice as exercise and recreation.
If it's not too late to reverse this decision, I would encourage you as a council to follow Mayor Hovland's
recommendation to table the decision for a year. Perhaps the leg doesn't need to be amputated to save
the patient, so to speak. But once amputated, the leg won't grow back.
Sincerely,
Marnie Gaasedelen
7215 Lanham Lane
Edina, MN 55439
952-944-6221 home
612-309-7666 mobile
cc Mark Gaasedelen
.......... N ............................
From: stevenpwest[ma iIto: stevenpwestCcbstevewestdiscgolf com]
Sent: Wednesday, March 19, 2014 1:23 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Disc Golf for Fred Richards
Dear Mayor and Council Members:
You may find that re -purposing Fred Richards Executive golf course as a disc golf course is the
best solution. I'm offering to help you get information about disc golf to consider that option.
You have experience with a small, recreational course that shares a park in Rosland
Park. However, a dedicated, full-size disc golf course provides an order of magnitude of greater
service to the community.
If the entire golf course were used for disc golf, it would keep the area as open and green as is it
now. The major difference is that disc golf does not need all the inputs that are required to keep
a golf course playable. Just mowing is all that is needed.
Parts of the course may even be restored to prairie. Other parts could serve as places to plant
more trees.
A disc golf course would use less infrastructure and capital than any other use.
Disc golf is played by all ages, from 8 to 88. Many families with children find disc golf to be
the outdoor activity they can all enjoy together.
A disc golf course would attract players from all over the Metropolitan Region. As a Regional
recreation feature, and as an activity that fights obesity and improves health, it may be eligible
for certain grants.
The disc golf course could host tournaments that include players from all over the world.
The course could be free to play, but disc golfers around here are willing to pay $5 a day to play
a quality course. Charging non-resident players would make disc golf nearly revenue neutral
from the start. If food and beverages were to be sold next to course, a net gain could be possible.
I am a disc golf course designer (member #57 of the Disc Golf Course Designers group), and
would like to be the designer of this new course for Edina. However, I am offering to serve as an
information source at no charge to provide you with whatever information you need to consider
the option of turning the Fred Richards course into a disc golf course.
If there is anything I can do to help, feel free to contact me.
Steve West, Owner
Steve West Disc Golf, LLC
4 Nord Circle Road
North Oaks, MN 55127
612 578 1832
PS The current golfers at Fred Richards could easily take up disc golf and continue to enjoy the
course. Disc golf is much easier to learn and more fun.
NNNNNNNNNNNN.....NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
From: Derek Johnson [mailto•Derek Johnson(�bgenmills.com]
Sent: Wednesday, March 19, 2014 1:11 PM
To: Ann Kattreh; Scott Neal; Edina Mail; Joni Bennett; Mary Brindle (Comcast);
joshsprague(abedinarealty.net; swensonannl(abgmail.com
Subject: Comments of future Fred Richards use and overall process
Thanks to all of you for your engagement over the last 4 weeks on the Fred Richards closure
decision. Now that the decision has been finalized, I just have a couple of comments on the
future space and a suggestion for the Council and City Staff on overall process.
In regards to the future Fred space, as a resident who backs up to the current course, I would
encourage City Staff and Council to do the following:
Include the Cornelia community sooner rather than later in the ideation process of what this
space will become. I heard great things from Council and City Staff on including the community,
and would just encourage this participation at the beginning of the process and not at the
end. In addition, I would like to volunteer my time as both a community member and as
someone whose property will be directly impacted by this change.
When I look out my backyard during the Spring and Summer months, the trees on the Fred
Richards course that back up to my backyard and that are on the south end of the course
provide two critical benefits:
I. When the trees are full, they do a nice job of blocking the view of all the commercial
buildings in the Pentagon Park area
2. They provide a partial sound barrier for noise coming from the Pentagon Park area
Given that there will be many years of construction noise and the buildings will only
grow in scale, please protect all the trees on the current Fred Richards course when
determining a future use for that space. I just cringe to think of the view and noise that
will occur without them.
In terms of process recommendations, I hope everyone involved in the Fred Richards discussion
realizes how much better this process could have gone if there was both community involvement
and engagement much earlier in the process (both sides own this). As a resident living off the
course, I didn't find out about what was going on until the meeting at Braemar at the end of
January, and didn't really get a chance to get engaged in the discussion until we were less than 4
weeks away from an official vote. Although I realize you will always have some disappointed
residents when making these types of decisions, I think the tone would have been much more
collaborative (on both ends) than what took place in this instance. This was a very big decision
that impacts many residents and should have been approached earlier with this in mind.
I would also ask that the full vision tied to a decision gets shared publicly at the beginning. As I
sat through last night's meeting, I got a better understanding of the rationale for closing Fred. It
no longer seemed to be solely based on the financial picture and the need to fund Braemar, but
more about balancing overall amenities we provide our residents and how that space could be put
towards a different use — one that was clearly in scope from the very beginning. Why this full
vision was not shared at the beginning (vs. making the Fred closure all about golf financials)
baffles me. Instead, many of us wasted 4 weeks of our time vigorously debating the benefits of
saving $100,000 per year by closing Fred, when it was never really about that.
In closing, thanks again for your engagement over the last 4 weeks and I hope you will take my
comments above into future consideration.
On a lighter note, don't forget to fill out your tournament brackets. The next couple of weeks
represent the most un -productive work weeks in America, so don't miss out on it O
Derek Johnson
7421 West Shore Drive
952-807-6311
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From: Dave Tessman [mailto:dave tessman(cbdahlgreen com]
Sent: Wednesday, March 19, 2014 8:14 AM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Fred Richards Golf Course
To Whom It May Concern,
My e-mail is dual purposed. My wife sent me the link to the news story last night about closing
the Fred Richards golf facility. As a golf course owner/operator, I'd be less than truthful to say I
didn't have a twinge of "YES!!!, the industry (local markets for sure) needs courses to close".
Then, I learned it was the executive course you were closing. Here is my 2 -cents worth. Those
are the very courses that need to stay open and possibly be more of (pardon the grammar). Run
right, they are instrumental in growing the game. You have a great opportunity for a "step"
program to take beginners from the Fred Richards course and promote them to Braemar. My
"dual" purpose is to suggest you re -think your decision as I'd like to see a facility stay open that
could produce potential players for larger courses ... and, if you need help turning the facility into
a money-maker, I'd consider helping advise, and I'd do it for free. Although, the second part
probably won't happen as I know you have many golf people at your disposal who could make it
work.
Just felt compelled to chime in... which is rare for me.
Thanks for your time.
David Tessman
General Manager
Dahlgreen Golf Club
6940 Dahlgren Rd.
Chaska, MN 55318
952-448-7463 ext. 24
www.dahlgreen.com
N ......................................
From: JASON M. SHEELEY(mailto:iedisheeleyCcDicloud.comj
Sent: Tuesday, March 18, 2014 5:22 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Fred Richards Land Use Plan
Dear Mayor Hovland and the Edina City Council,
As I have watched the process unfold in regards to the decision about the future of the Fred Richards
golf course, I feel compelled to convey my disappointment and distrust in how this decision making
debacle has unfolded.
I understand the financial motivation to investigate this option. I do not understand why multiple
options were not considered. Perhaps, this was never an option, but a plan formulated and then
presented to the public falsely as something that they could have real input into before a final decision
rendered. I truly resent that there were discussions had over a year ago with developers and yet the
timetable for public information and input was a fraction of that. I am a stakeholder and I should be able
to have faith that there is process for how public land is used and that before a change is made, there is
a transparent plan communicated to those impacted. I look out my window onto the the golf course. I
realize I do not own that land. That being said, I never would have made the financial investment into
this property had I known the decision making process for this public land's use would lack
forthrightness and the ethical standards.
Considering that Fred Richards is not the only public subsidized operation to be in the red in Edina, that
there have been mixed messages, potential conflicts of interest and a lack of transparency in the
process, I feel as though my interests as a homeowner are being negated by interests that do not
benefit the citizens, but rather come at their expense.
Please take steps to ensure that the decision making process for the future of the Fred Richards golf
course is done in a fashion that honors the trust that the community stakeholders have placed in our
leaders.
Thank you for your consideration.
Rachel Christian
4413 Gilford Dr.
Edina, MN
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From: tmterwilliger [_m ailto:tmterwiIIiger(cDcomcast. net]
Sent: Tuesday, March 18, 2014 2:37 PM
To: Edina Mail; Mary Brindle (Comcast); lonibennettl2@comcast net; swensonannl@gmail com;
joshsprague(cDedinarealty com
Subject: Golf Operations - 3/18/14 Council Meeting
Dear Mayor Hovland and City Council Members:
On behalf of my wife Michelle we respectfully ask that you vote this evening to delay the decision on
closing Fred Richards golf course until after the 2014 season and to include Fred Richards in the Master
Planning process for golf operations.
As Mayor Hovland stated at the March 4th meeting, if other ideas and proposals were created and
reviewed and the recommendation afterward was to close Fred Richards, and this recommendation was
supported by fact and details, I would accept that. Unfortunately staff has presented only one proposal
which in my opinion gives limited detail or documented support for closing Fred.
What is astonishing to me is how City Staff can recommend closing Fred Richards but not have any idea
on how the Fred Richards land would be repurposed other than it would be a park. How can anyone
make an educated decision without knowing what the future costs will be? If City Staff is truly trying to
be good stewards of the Cities finances, which Scott Neil continues to state as well he should, then some
sort of idea needs to be known on what the cost of the next use will be if Fred Richards were to close.
For argument sake if closing Fred Richards saves money it might make the balance sheet for Golf
Operations look better but will it make the City's overall balance sheet better? At the end of the day the
money all goes in and out of one pot. With that said, if City Staff actually does have an idea on what the
recommended future use of Fred Richards would be and the estimated costs for it then the public has
the right to know this before a decision is made.. I believe that it is safe to say that the cost to
repurpose the approximately 42 acres of land would be well over $1MM which is likely an extremely
conservative number not to mention the annual maintenance costs. If these annual costs could be
recovered through CAM at Pentagon then again the public has the right to know now and not later.
However, it would surprise me greatly if a future park could recover enough dollars from items such as
CAM to cover the annual maintenance expenses if for no other reason Centennial Lakes is negative and
they receive a portion of CAM expenses from Class A buildings that are currently occupied. Unless
buildings are razed Pentagon Office Park will not be able to charge the same Operating Expenses (which
CAM is part of) as Centennial Lakes without reducing their net rent substantially. My understanding is
that if Pentagon Office Park is fully razed it will be 10 to 15 years before it is fully developed. Bottom
line is that CAM by itself is unlikely to cover the annual maintenance costs until 10 to 15 years at the
soonest if ever.
Regarding the stewardship of City finances. I am confused on why City Staff is recommending the
closure of Fred Richards, which is essentially a profitable course now that the bonds were paid off a year
ago, and yet last fall approved the construction of a refrigerated outdoor rink at Braemar Arena which
operates at an annual loss and is expected to continue to operate at a loss. Again, is there more to City
Staff's recommendation to close Fred Richards other than finances? If so then the public has the right to
know. As a side note 91% of Edina citizens stated in your April 2013 Survey that the number of parks
and open space was "about right" and only 10% felt that there are "too few" walking and bike trails.
For what it is worth I bike 1000+ miles a year which is nothing to brag about but is enough miles to have
an educated opinion on bike lanes and trails. Also, I have coached 16 seasons of hockey for the EHA,
was an EHA Board member, and have three children that play in the EHA so I am well aware of the ice
issues and I am not "anti -hockey". That said I do not think it was a wise financial decision to approve the
4th rink.
Lastly, I was just reviewing the "Golf Course Operations Report/Recommendation" prepared by Staff for
tonight's meeting. On page 3 Staff describes different ideas on how they will help accommodate girls,
women, and juniors. Many of the ideas that they state are good. However, what is so frustrating is that
many of these ideas could have been implemented years ago at both Fred Richards and Braemar and
had they been Golf Operations would not be in the same situation that it is today. The City has done
virtually, if not absolutely, nothing to help promote rounds at Fred Richards and yet the number of
rounds have consistently been above Braemar Executive. More than any other reason why annual
rounds at Fred Richards is not higher than you would like is not because of the course itself, it's location
(which from a density and demographic perspective could not be much better), or decline in golf. In my
opinion the number one reason is because of the inefficient job that the City has done promoting Fred
and yet now they are finally coming up with ideas while at the same time they are proposing to close
Fred.
Thank you for reading this.
Respectfully,
Tom & Michelle Terwilliger
7421 Kellogg Ave.
Edina, MN
612-790-1859
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From: Laura Berzinski [mailto:berzinski@:omcast.net]
Sent: Tuesday, March 18, 2014 12:17 PM
To: Edina Mail; jonibennettl2( comcast.net; Mary Brindle (Comcast); swensonannl Rmail.com;
ioshsprague(@edinarealty.com
Subject: Fred Richards Golf Course
Dear Mayor Hovland and Edina City Council Members:
The Fred Richards Golf Course is a great asset to the Edina community and to the future of golf in Edina.
I am a life-long Edina resident and have spent my 50 years in the South Cornelia and Lake Edina
neighborhoods. The Fred Richards Golf Course is a key component in making these two neighborhoods
a great place to live and provides the neighborhoods a quiet, but well used, buffer from the nearby
office space. Fred Richards has been the golf course where residents have learned to golf over the years
and generations can comfortably play together. The community has had such limited input into the
planning process on this issue, and I ask that you please do not make a quick decision to close this long-
time treasured community course.
Thank you,
Laura Berzinski
7416 Kellogg Ave.
Edina, MN 55435
11 ......................................
From: KBraun [mailto:kbraun6Ccbcomcast.net]
Sent: Tuesday, March 18, 2014 10:25 AM
To: Edina Mail; joniben nettl2Ccbicomcast.net; Mary Brindle (Comcast); ioshsprague edinarealty.com;
swensonann1( gmail.com
Subject: Edina Golf Course Operations Study
Dear Mayor Hovland and City Council Members:
Thank you and City Staff for your work to keep Edina a strong viable city. I
request the City Council table action on the Edina Golf Course Operations
Study until additional options and analyses have been developed and reviewed
in detail with the community.
The following is my assessment of the City of Edina Golf Course Operations
Study:
* Definition of the problem: B
* Evaluation of Solutions/Options: -C. More options need to be
generated and evaluated before settling on a plan or solution.
Giving up golf holes. Closing golf holes and courses should be a last
resort. They will never come back. Fred Richards fills a need in terms of
the type of player and experience and nicely augments Edina's golf
portfolio. The availability of green space and multiple golf opportunities
are assets that make Edina a great suburb and community. Developing the 19-
27 hole Clunie nine as housing as Mayor Hovland mentioned in passing at the
Mach 4, 2014 Council Meeting would remove the advantage of 3 -nines for
managing rounds and destroy the natural feel of the entire course. Even if
it was the perimeter area that was developed, Edina looses the critical
element that makes Braemar special - i.e. open wooded land in the heart of
the metro. House lined courses are not a good golf experience.
Driving Range Needs Improvement. Not significant expansion. Expanding the
driving range at the cost of the Braemar Executive nine, and more
importantly, at significant costs to modify multiple existing golf holes that
are in a pretty good layout is not advised. The driving range length could
be addressed with modification of the 2nd hole on the executive nine and
possibly the practice green area. The range is big enough as is. Increasing
its size east to west comes at a high cost and uncertain return. Improve
what is there with minimal earth moving for a higher return on dollars spent.
The Grill - it is an under-utilized asset. Its proximity to Braemar Arena
and many potential winter -time customers looking for a place for a reasonably
priced burger and refreshment is simply untapped. It would not be difficult
to get them in the door. Changes will be required but be reticent to hand
over control, revenue and jobs that could stay within the City. Does the
grill need an upgrade for the golfers? No. It is fine as is. Does it need
to change to catch missed revenue opportunity? Yes.
Golf rates should be kept low as possible. Twighlight rates should not be
limited to the weekend as proposed for this summer. Grow the game -
use twighlight rates to bring in junior players - let them play for free
with a paying adult. Offer the players who want to get a round or just a few
holes in the evening when the course is nearly deserted an attractive price -
i.e. somewhere around a bucket of balls or the late fall rate ($10 to
15max.) Making it more expensive to play Braemar will not make more people
want to play Braemar and will not make the people that do play Braemar play
it more often.
Money for Customer Hospitality Training. Not needed.
Advertising and Marketing. Yes
Course Maintenance and Upkeep. Yes. But spend money on improvements to the
turf, tees and greens before signage and paths.
Explore and Develop Winter Use: The groomed ski/walking trail this winter
was great. Add a set track for Classic stride cross country skiing and then
strategically add some more groomed trail to create more loops, advertize,
and many local skiers will come. Why isn't Braemar the Highschools XC Ski
team's practice area? Get the grill open and add the skiers business. You
might even consider a small XC -ski rental or sales shop.
Down Sizing: Last resort. Yes it is expensive to have city employees but
city jobs should be preserved if possible.
Thank you for your consideration of these ideas.
Regards,
Karl Braun
5833 Jeff Place
Edina, MN 55436
.......................................
From: Virginia Sweeny [mailto:virginia.sweenyCabgmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 18, 2014 9:45 AM
To: Ann Kattreh
Subject: Keep the Fred
Please add our names to those who treasure the unique golf experience afforded by the Fred
Richardson course. We believe it's an asset worth keeping and support the financial means
needed to do so.
Fred & Virginia Sweeny
7129 Gleason Road
Edina
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From: Sarah Stoutenburgh [mailto:sallystout@Qenturylink.net]
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 5:49 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Upcoming vote on Fred Richards
Dear Mayor Hovland and City Council members,
During the March 4th council meeting I heard Mayor Hovland suggest the possibility of selling
the unpopular Clunie 9
for residential development. (I heard this at an earlier time from an avid golfer.) This would
solve so many financial problems and think should be given serious consideration.
Josh Sprague said that this issue has gone on a very long time and a final decision be made
ASAP -March 18th.
Time looks very different from here. Some heard rumors last summer but nothing solid to dispel
them ... no real information. It took a long time for our elected people to communicate what was
going on.
It is hard to believe that money can't be found somewhere in Edina's coffers to allow for bids and
acceptance of such to improve the driving range. I am not ignorant that there are designated
funds that probably cannot be touched.
We all want golf excellence and profitability in Edina. Let's not close a small, active and
important part of that operation too hastily. Great ideas and corrective measures are possible.
I strongly request each of you vote NO on closing Fred Richards Golf Course at this time.
Sarah H Stoutenburgh
7449 West Shore Drive
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From: Judi Harvey [mailto:iudiharv@hotmail com]
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 5:33 PM
To: Edina Mail; ionibennettl2@comcast net; Lshsprague(&edinarealty com; awensonannl(a�gmail com;
Mary Brindle (Comcast)
Subject: re: Fred Richards Golf Course - further study needed
Mayor Hovland and Edina City Council Members,
I'm writing to ask you to reconsider the closure of the Fred Richards Golf Course and take time
to study the options that are available to keep it open. There should never be a rush to do
something that cannot be undone, and I am concerned that Councilman Sprague is pushing this
to move ahead too quickly. Taking more time to make this decision will only serve to make
sure that everyone's concerns and ideas are heard. The citizens of our city are very creative.
I've seen some very interesting ideas proposed by people opposed to the course closure. Why
can't these proposals be given some though instead of moving g quickly down a path of no
More park space and golf course space is not being developed in the city. This is true
everywhere. We are not a community that can annex or expand. We are also a community
that is fairly well off. There should be no rush into this, especially since there is opposition from
citizens that is compelling. All change is not good - and there has been a lot of good change as
of late in our city - much of it positive. I think the walkway connecting Centennial Lakes and the
Edinborough development is very nice. But perhaps the Fred Richards course could play an
integral part of that connection. The City is trying to promote a more active lifestyle for our
kids and senior citizens. What better way than something people of all ages can do outdoors?
The Fred Richards is a user friendly course - and I think it is much better fit for the needs of the
southeast end of Edina. Players who may need more time -not as great at golfing or are just
learning - find this course a less intimidating course to play. People without several hours on
their hands to play golf can actually get out and complete a round relatively quickly. The City
can never replace that green space and layout again - and demographically do we really want to
have fewer amenities (outdoor amenities I'm talking about) for our community?
If there is a way that the course could be altered a bit to allow for lower maintenance, or if it
could be promoted more for beginning lessons - I think it would be a wonderful resource for
the City. Maybe work with some of the area schools more. If Edina just wants to make golf
appealing to the people who play more frequently and have more leisure time .... and who can
afford it, then it is not even trying to (1) grow the sport - as it has fallen off a great deal among
younger players who have difficulty finding the time to play, and (2) facing reality that we are a
diverse community and we should try to make our recreational activities accessible to more
people who may not have cars (goodness knows if we are trying to encourage people to go
outdoors and exercise, this is a lot more enjoyable than walking in many neighborhoods of
Edina that do not have sidewalks. Maybe we could put a walking path for seniors around the
golf course if that is part of the issue.
I have not studied the financial impact in great detail, but this is a valuable resource to the
community. It will not hurt anything to take a little bit more time to study this big change. I
would ask that any final decision be postponed. This is a big enough change to our community
lifestyle and list of amenities that we need more soutggestion thaotpwess slll wait. ow down this ere is
no need to rush, and I would endorse MayoHovland's
process. Thank you.
Judith Harvey
6608 Naomi Drive
Edina, MN 55439
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From: Karen Houle [mailto:houleCa>ulanguage.com]
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 5:25 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Save the Fred
To: Members of the Edina City Council
I respectfully request rhdefer indefinitely
bose efeilrds Golf Course.
unique resource
inneighborhood uusedmt fequetly y famiesdrenand senors and would be
greatly missed if closed permanently.
I am also strongly opposed to the loss of this public space so that it can be repurposed as a pond or
storm water drainage location for any new private development.
Sincerely,
Karen M. Houle
7409 Kellogg Avenue
Edina, MN 55435
952.922.9112 home
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From: Derek Johnson [mai Ito: Derek Joh nson(agenmills.com]
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 4:32 PM
To: Scott Neal; Ann Kattreh
Cc: Edina Mail; Joni Bennett; Mary Brindle (Comcast); ioshsprague@edinarealty.net;
swensonanni(a)gmail com; John Stang (itstang@comcast.net); colleenwolfe5(&comcast.net; Wayde
Heirigs (wayde heirigs(&atk.com)
Subject: Golf Course Recommendation for Tuesday Night
Scott/Ann:
Thank you for your time on Friday, March 7"'. You and your team were very respectful and
understanding of our concerns.
We also want to thank you for sending us a copy of the Council's prep packet and your team's
commentary. We are copying the City Council on this response since we will not be given the
opportunity to speak to your comments in tomorrow's Fred agenda discussion.
Please find attached a list of comments and questions (in red font) tied to your prep packet
document.
We also wanted to address a few additional items that came up in our correspondence:
1) We agree that operational expense savings from closing a course (including Braemar Exec in
Option 3) are likely less risky than revenue generation ideas; however, we would add that you
have an aggressive revenue assumption in expecting 40% of Fred players to move to the
Braemar Par 3 — especially given the Braemar 1 -year course closure. As a result, one could even
argue that the overall risk level of our Option 3 (Closing Braemar Exec course) carries the least
amount of risk.
a. You also had a number of revenue generation assumptions in the rest of your 6 -step
strategy, that you felt confident in at the time. We used these same assumptions in our
analysis, so want to be sure it's clear to the Council that we have not been more
aggressive in our assumptions.
2) Your comment that anew source of revenue has been found to fund Braemar improvements
confirms that closing the Fred is not a requirement for the Driving Range expansion. In addition,
your comment that you will recommend Council allocates funds to the Master Planning process
for Fred's future use confirms there will be a significant $ investment to convert that space into
something else — and should be factored into the analysis.
3) We appreciate your acknowledgment that a Master Plan makes sense before further actions are
taken, but disagree with the idea that the Fred Richards decision should take place separately
from this planning process. From our discussions and your position on funding the Driving range
expansion, it's clear that any decision to close Fred Richards is not critical at this time and only
introduces unnecessary risk with two course closures during the Braemar construction
phase. To have an effective Master Plan, all existing assets need to be considered in that
discussion. As a result, delavine the decision to close Fred and including it in Master Plan
discussions will only result in a stronger outcome.
In closing, we understand your position, but are hopeful that Council will see our logic and make
a different decision. It's clear from what we've read and discussed there is no rush to make this
decision and it's also clear that an effective Master Plan should include Fred Richards in the
discussion.
Thanks and regards.
Derek Johnson
Information / Background:
At the March 4, 2014 City Council meeting the findings of the staff golf operations study were
presented. The City Council held a public hearing regarding staffs six point proposal, including closing of
the Fred Richards Golf Course. The City Council directed staff to respond to additional options
presented by the Save the Fred Association and to answer additional questions that were posed at the
council meeting. Staff prepared a list of questions posed at the meeting. The questions and staff
responses are as follows:
I . Are there unique maintenance requirements pertaining to instability of soils at Fred Richards
Golf Course?
The course is built over swampy organic soils. These types of soils are highly compressible and
are susceptible to settlement. Please see the attached Fairway Rehabilitation Analysis recently
completed by SEH (Attachment B).
2. What are the numbers of golf holes in neighboring cities?
The Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area has 2,610 holes of municipal golf, ranking 118th nationally
with 1,281 residents per hole of golf. Only 13 of the 2,451 municipal courses nationally have 45
or more holes of golf. Edina is one of the 13 municipal courses to have 45 holes of golf.
In surrounding communities:
St. Louis Park has 18 holes of municipal golf (owned by Minneapolis Park Board), Bloomington
and Golden Valley have 27 holes of municipal golf, Minneapolis has 81 municipal holes (in
Minneapolis), and Hopkins, Richfield and Eden Prairie have none.
- The Edina community has lots of other amenities these communities lack: Golf Dome,
Indoor Playground, Centennial Lakes, and upcoming Sports Dome. Why compare our
offerings in golf?
Some recent course closings are: Hidden Creek — 18 (Owatonna, 2010), Pine River — 9 (Pine
River, 2010), Parkview — 18 (Eagan, 2012), Lakeview Golf of Orono — 18 (Mound, 2013), Red
Oak Executive — 9 (Mound, 2013), Elm Creek — 18 (Plymouth, 2013), Sundance — 18 (Maple
Grove, 2014) Mississippi National — 36 (Red Wing, course closed with future undecided).
3. What were the renovations done at Hyland Greens in Bloomington and why?
Bloomington had two executive courses at Hyland that were not operating near capacity and it
did not have a solid driving range. The range was small, uphill and hit only off mats. Hyland
eliminated one of their 9 hole executive courses and expanded their driving range and training
facilities. Hyland is also going to modify the remaining nine holes to accommodate Footgolf,
where players kick soccer balls from hole to hole where 20" or 22" cups are added.
4. What are the recommended course closings in Minneapolis? Why?
The Fort Snelling nine hole course has 2 par 3's, six par 4's and one par 5. It is a shorter course
that should have appeal to seniors, kids and beginning golfers, but because of the redundancy
and tremendous needs at all of the courses, it has been recommended to close this course.
You're missing the primary reason it was recommended to be closed in the Minneapolis
Golf Study - location: "Golf course near airport suggests that the facility should be closed."
The Theo Wirth Park Par 3 is a nine hole par 3 course. It is in bad shape, along with the
18 hole course at this location. It is recommended to turn this facility into a training
facility with a 9 or 18 hole entry level course, a driving range, short game practice
facility and putting course.
S. Explain the process that staff went through to come up with the staff recommendations?
In July 2013 staff began to study the operation of the City of Edina golf enterprise. The goal of
the operational study was to make golf operations cover 100% of its operational costs including
future bonding needs so that the city is able to improve its facilities to ensure our ability to
provide high quality golf facilities along with superior service to our customers. The expectation
of the municipal golf operations in Edina is that it will cover not only its own operating
expenses, but its capital expenses as well.
The staff approach started with a comprehensive evaluation of all aspects of golf operations
including the grill, banquet facility, pro shop, driving range, golf dome, current pricing structure,
current patron card program, programming, leagues, lessons and the conditions, utilization and
revenue per round of the courses. Information provided in the NGF report along with the
report from Matt Fulton were also considered. Staff reflected on current golf trends and
future predictions of the golf industry and generated numerous pro formas that included
multiple assumptions to formulate our recommendation. Options were considered that would
increase golf operational efficiencies, including equipment, maintenance, staffing, registration,
POS, and marketing.
Potential revenue generated by the new practice range is crucial to the success of the plan.
Creating the largest and best maintained practice range in Minnesota will drive customers to
Braemar, thus potentially increasing the interest in golfing at the Braemar golf complex.
Staff believes that the recommended six step plan gives the golf course operations the best
chance to cover 100% of its operating costs and also fund its own future capital improvements.
6. Explain strategies to accommodate junior golfers at Braemar. How are you going to make it
more welcoming to girls, women and juniors?
In anticipation of the new operational changes which include the closing of the Fred Richards
Executive Course, Braemar is looking at creating more inviting spaces for both adult and junior
golfers at the Executive Course/Par 3 area and in the clubhouse. For adults, the expansion of
food options (including some beer and wine), planned redesign of building furnishings/layout
and the addition of outdoor seating should make the area more appealing. Staff will meet with
Fred Richards' leagues to work on options for their leagues to be at home at the Braemar Par
3 for the 2015 season. New programming to attract these groups will include Family Twilight
Zone, Fore and Pour, Glow Golf, Movie Night, and Women's Night at the Dome.
Staff is also creating new junior group lessons for kids aged as young as six. This year a
successful junior promotion was offered on Martin Luther King Day and President's Day at the
Golf Dome in addition to the Kids Kamps that have been in place for over 10 years. In 2015
additional times and age group offerings will be provided for juniors at our courses and at the
golf dome. The minimum age for these programs was lowered to age six. Parents are looking
for more options for kids in this age group. The Executive Course will be open to kids as
young as six this year during new Family Twilight Zone specials during non -peak evening time
on weekends this season. Other proposed programs for 2015 are:
Adult Player Development Series — A program similar to the Junior Development Program
with two different levels. The program will focus on every aspect of the game in a small class
ratio as well as playing time with the teaching pro on the course.
Girls Golf League — A short lesson followed by playing on the executive/par 3 course. Women
mentors from the women's leagues will walk with the girls on the course to focus on golf rules
and etiquette.
Adult/Youth Golf Lesson — This is intended to introduce a child to golf. Adults and their
children/grandchildren can learn to enjoy golf together. The class will teach rules and etiquette,
full swing, short swing and putting.
Women's Golf Camp — A women's only camp will be offered at Braemar.
Staff is also pursuing more non -golf programming options for Braemar and the Golf Dome such
as offering the space as a play area during the fall before the dome opens for golf.
One customer service training focus will be providing welcoming and inclusive service and
attention to people of all ages and abilities. When facility remodeling is being considered, youth
participants will be consulted to determine how to make the facility most comfortable and
welcoming for them.
7. What changes are being recommended to the clubhouse?
Staff recommends a renovation of the grill area to provide new food prep and storage area as
well as a new service counter, menu boards, etc. Access to the restrooms on the upper level
needs to be improved, and clubhouse furniture replaced. New carpet, paint, curtains and light
fixtures should be considered and would provide a brighter and more updated look without high
cost. Eventually, more significant changes are needed including renovating the spaces in the
lower level.
8. What changes can be made to the Clunie 9?
Without completing a master plan, it is difficult to say today exactly what can or should be done
to the Clunie 9 (19 — 27), or to the Castle (1-9) or Hays (10 — 18) nines. Some options for
consideration are to shorten the nine to create a "short course nine", change sand traps and
greens to make the course play easier and implementing a Tee It Forward program. This nine is
a likely candidate for changes to provide a shorter and easier experience to replace the
executive course experience and to make the nine more enjoyable for kids, women and seniors.
It is beneficial to the golf operation to have 27 holes of regulation golf, so having a "multi use"
nine would be ideal. Walking distance may be increased from green to tee in order to shorten
holes.
9. Will we be able to achieve our revenue projections when the Braemar Executive Course is
renovated to a par 3 course?
The Braemar Executive Course is popular for many golfers, but many also feel that it is too
difficult. It currently has two par 4 holes and the remaining 7 holes are par 3. The proposed
renovation would create an improved play experience, especially for golfers looking for an
easier and more casual experience with a shorter time commitment. This course will provide a
perfect introductory experience for kids as well as a fun course experience for less competitive
leagues. Staff believes that there will be no drop in rounds. — If this is the case, you need to redo
your financials. Currently, you forecast a drop in rounds with the conversion to a Par
3 ... you're analysis states "lower demand for par 3 vs. executive" — worth approx. -$30,000 less
revenue per year. We plan to aggressively market the renovated course while providing
programming to feed players into this course. We believe that we will be able to achieve our
revenue projections with a renovated par 3 course. The trend is for a faster, easier and less
expensive golf experience. The decrease in length/distance will be offset by a better course
design, playability and conditions. This offers a potential for increase in play by juniors, seniors
and family play.
The following chart provides a comparison of the existing executive courses to the renovated
Par 3:
Hole 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Yardage Par
Executive White I 190 110 142 152 326 113 295 144 157 1,629 29
Richards White 119 137 254 130 142 168 168 299 158
1,575 29
Richards Blue 131 164 298 147 150 200 175 320 182
1,767 29
Par 3 White 160 165 125 110 160 120 175 135 185
1,335 27
Some benefits of the change from Executive to Par 3 Course:
• The most difficult bunkers are currently on the executive course. This is a challenge for casual
golfers. The new design eliminates most of the bunkers and makes the remaining ones much
more playable. Staff has witnessed people hitting three or more times and still not getting out of
the Executive bunkers.
•
#I on the Executive Course is long and difficult. The new # I is more playable.
• The two weakest holes (#2 & #3) on the Executive Course are eliminated. New #3 and #4 look
scenic, providing a better experience.
• #8 on the Executive Course is a difficult hole over water. The new #9 provides a better finishing
experience and eliminates the carry over water from the forward tees.
• Experienced golfers can work on their short game and novice golfers will have plenty of
challenge. It will be a good stepping stone to a longer course experience.
• A shorter course might offset the hills for walking.
• The renovation provides opportunities to create more playable tees and greens.
• Fred Richard's yardage from the white tees is 1575 yards. The proposed par 3 is 1335 yards.
The difference is not significant.
• A par 3 takes less time to play.
• The new par 3 course is more appropriate for novice golfers and young kids. — Seems like you
have a lot of concerns with Braemar Exec in current state in terms of play for beginners/youth
(bunkers, hole #I, hole #8, hills); and you've heard from current Fred Richards novice/youth
that the Fred course is ideal for them. We think you've confirmed our position that Braemar
Exec is not ideal and Fred is for these players.
• The par 3 eliminates the driver for many adults which provides the most likely opportunity for
an errant shot. — As a novice adult or Senior, they want to learn to hit drivers off the tee. Why
is this a good thing?
• Driving range netting increases safety for golfers on the regulation and par 3 courses.- No safety
issues at Fred today.
• The longest holes on the proposed par 3 course still surpass most of the regular executive
course customers driving abilities (they can't hit the ball 175 or 185 yards off the tee) and will
consequently not alter their initial club selection. — Supports our argument that a Par 3 is not a
course to learn to play golf, or have a full golf experience in an easier Exec length course setting.
Most Adult players will not be able to use woods, and when kids hit, they will be limited to
woods (tee) and high irons (within 50 yards of green). How will they learn to use low to mid
irons in a fairway setting?
10. What is the revenue comparing Braemar Executive Course to the Fred Richards Executive
Course for the past several years? What is the revenue per round?
Average 19,372
Rounds
Fred Richards Executive Course
Braemar Executive
2007
26,499
Course
25,875
2009
25,965
2010
21,965
Revenue
19,073
Rounds
Revenue
Per Round
2007
22,510
TOTAL
2008
22,038
2009
22,856
$231,191
$10.12
2010
18,578
$189,873
$10.22
2011
16,631
$153,310
$9.22
2012
17,617
$202,734
$11.51
2013
15,377
$176,242
$11.46
2014
TOTAL
135,607
$953,350
$10.50
Average 19,372
Rounds
Fred Richards Executive Course
Average 22,096
Rounds
Revenue
Revenue Per Round
$217,749
Rounds
2007
26,499
2008
25,875
2009
25,965
2010
21,965
2011
19,073
2012
19,361
2013
15,934
2014
TOTAL
154,672
Average 22,096
Rounds
Revenue
Revenue Per Round
$217,749
$8.39
$203,595
$9.27
$175,542
$9.07
$188,550
$9.74
$170,628
$10.71
$956,064 $9.43
11. What are the revenue projections if we convert the Braemar Executive Course into a par 3 and
keep Fred Richards open?
Staff assumes that this is the baseline scenario. The premise of this question is that golfers won't
play the renovated par 3 course like they played the executive course. Staff does not agree with
that premise. - Your current analysis contradicts this statement. See #9 above.
12. What was the capacity before the addition of the Clunie 9? What are the financial projections if
we close the Clunie 9?
The largest number of rounds played prior to the addition of Clunie was 54,500. The course
was crowded and rounds were taking 5.5 hours. Golfers were not happy.
The impact of the elimination of the Clunie 9 would affect open play, group outings and
approximately three evening leagues. In 2013 the three evening leagues generated approximately
$34,000 and two 27 hole tournaments generated $25,000. When we host 18 hole tournaments
we utilize the open 9 holes for league play or for open play. The Friday mornings junior
regulation leagues play Clunie which allows open play to begin when the course opens for the
day. Without Clunie, open play would begin at approximately 8 a.m. on Fridays. The evening
leagues probably couldn't be accommodated on the original 18 as there is already little room for
public play in the late afternoon and early evening hours. Demand would also exceed supply on
weekends and holidays. junior league, tournament scheduling and open play would have to be
re -visited. Approximately 25% of rounds are played on Clunie.
13. Are there benefits to doing a master plan before closing Fred Richards?
The master plan suggested is for the 27 holes at Braemar. The goal of the master plan will be to
plan for the needed improvements to the original 18, while determining the best utilization and
combination of all 27 holes. Staffs plan is to provide a renovated par 3 in the executive course
location and a "transitional" nine to accommodate golfers who are looking for a more
challenging experience than the par 3 course, but are looking for a shorter and/or less
demanding 9 holes. Staff envisions all golf on one campus at Braemar including premier training
facilities, par 3, executive or shorter transitional nine and regulation 18 hole course. With the
limitations of the existing executive course and driving range expansion sites, one par 4 hole
could be added, but it would not provide the best course configuration for the remaining eight
holes. It was determined that the best use of land and course layout would be for a par 3
course, only eliminating two par 4 holes.
14. What are the financial projections if we close the Braemar Executive Course and keep Fred
Richards open?
As shown in Question #10, between 2009 and 2013 the difference in revenue at the
two courses was only $2,714 while the difference in number of rounds was 19,065. This
is primarily due to the discounting of rounds to market Fred Richards Golf Course. —
would like to see supporting documentation that it's marketing discount driven and not
driven by mix of patrons (Senior discounts, or Youth discounts if there are any).
Would also like to understand if you include Patron cards in this analysis, and if it's just
more patron card usage at Fred driving the discount. Finally, if anything, this represents
an opportunity to increase rates at Fred (more so than Braemar Exec) or change
existing discount programs at the Fred course to generate additional revenue. Very little
if any discounting of rounds has occurred at the Braemar Executive Course. However,
we spend approximately $30,000 per year for new equipment at Fred Richards. At
Braemar all of the equipment is shared between the 36 holes. One full time staff person
is employed at Fred Richards. We have no full time staff people dedicated to the
Braemar Executive Course. Staff believes that there are also advantages to having 36
holes at one location that don't show up in the raw green fee numbers. A golfer at the
Braemar Par 3 might buy range balls and eat at the Braemar Grill. This helps us to
create a golf "ecosystem" at Braemar that is better than having golf on two separate
campuses. There is a stronger likelihood that a golfer who starts at the Braemar Par 3
will make Braemar their preferred golf course for the future.
15. What are the financial projections for closing the Braemar Executive Course and Fred Richards
during construction?
This is accounted for in the City Staff Plan. Revenue losses and expense savings are factored into
the City Staff Plan. Actual losses will depend on construction schedules, weather, future
decisions about when we open, how we stage the project, watershed district approvals, etc.
However, this is not a recurring situation that will affect the ending cost recovery goal of 101
that we believe that we can achieve year after year. It is a one time event that will involve some
pain to achieve our long-term goal of a sustainable enterprise. — As we have discussed, delaying
Fred closure to 2015 minimizes this pain and keeps golfers within the Edina golf community.
16. Is it more profitable to delay closing Fred Richards Executive Course until after construction is
complete at Braemar?
There are many factors to consider, including weather, exactly when the courses would close
and when they would be able to re -open and how many golfers would transfer from Braemar to
Fred Richards. Our first goal would be to keep as many golfers at Braemar as possible during
construction. This could take place in the golf dome and on the regulation course. Staff believes
that the profit for delaying the closing of Fred Richards until after construction is complete at
Braemar would be negligible. It will not be any easier to close Fred Richard in 2015 than it is in
2014. — Don't disagree from your vantage point; but it will be easier on golf patrons and your
community, who will have a more positive opinion on how city government is run and its
inclusion of the community in making decisions — it also provides time for including the Fred
Richards future state in overall Master Plan discussion. This is really not a difficult decision
(delay) and is better for everyone (with no financial impact).
It is not ideal, but not uncommon to completely close a course during construction. Staff will
work with customers and leagues to prepare them for the inconvenience of the closing, shorten
their leagues as needed and communicate with customers and accommodate them as best we
can at Braemar and in other golf programs and activities. We experienced a similar situation
when our golf dome was closed for an extended period of time. Customers were not happy
with the length of time that it took us to rebuild the facility, but we communicated with them
regularly and opened the new facility with an excited customer base which has returned to us
while still having other opportunities for practicing golf nearby. — Entirely different circumstance.
There was not a 2nd Edina golf dome they could play at during this construction. We still don't
see how it's a good business decision to close a course that could be useful while another is
under construction. There are numerous public courses within 5 miles of Edina that current
Braemar Exec patrons could go to during construction and never come back — significant risk.
How many indoor golf domes are within 5 miles of Edina besides the Braemar dome? Don't you
think that was the primary factor in why they came back once it was operational (distance).
17. What are the financial projections of selling the Clunie 9 and developing the land?
Staff did not consider this option. Previous City Council and Park Board direction has not been
supportive of selling city owned park and open space for development. We will explore this
option if the City Council would like us to; however, staff does not believe that it is in the best
interest of our golf operations.
18. What are the financial projections of making the driving range even larger?
This renovation will make the largest driving range in the state. Staff does not believe that there
would be significant benefit to making the driving range larger. We do not believe that it would
be practical to size the range to meet the highest demand levels when most of the day we are
not at capacity. If needed, the driving range could be expanded toward the west, requiring
regulation course hole #I to be shortened. This would be a welcomed change to this long hole.
Another option would be to expand the north teaching area into a "members only" practice
area. A new parking lot could be added off Braemar Boulevard for the "members only" practice
facility and a higher rate would be charged for this amenity.
Save the Fred Association Golf Operations Proposal
Staff and the City Council received a Golf Operations Proposal from the Save the Fred
Association. It was presented to the City Council on 3/4/2014. The City Council asked staff to
review and respond to their proposal. On Friday, March 7 staff met with Rick Ites (President of
the Braemar Men's Club), Colleen Wolfe (Save the Fred Committee Member), Dave Mooty
(Golf Course Management), Paul Kelley (Honorary President, Minnesota Section PGA), Derek
Johnson (Save the Fred Finance Team Member) and Wayde Heirigs (Save the Fred Finance
Team Member). Staff present were Scott Neal, Ann Kattreh, John Wallin, Eric Roggeman,
Susan Faus, Todd Anderson, Tom Swenson, Mary Wooldridge, and Amy Smith. The
assumptions that were utilized to prepare the Save the Fred Golf Operations Proposal were
discussed along with the City Staff Plan, its assumptions and implementation timelines.
The Save the Fred Association Golf Operations Proposal Option 2 involves creating a lot of
new revenue at Fred Richards through "marketing" and rate increases. This might be difficult to
achieve while the city still operates 45 holes of golf open at two campuses. This option does
not invest any additional dollars in marketing but counts on the same return at Fred Richards as
staff projected with 36 holes concentrated at Braemar. These revenue increases from
marketing are more optimistic than staff assumptions. Option 2 also includes all City Staff Plan
staffing reductions, which will not be possible while keeping all courses open. — Not sure we
understand your comments here. To be clear, we used the same revenue % increase as you
did in your staff plan. It was not the same $ return as all 36 holes (just same % increase off a
lower base). As a result, our assumptions were not more optimistic, but rather the same.
Your 6 step strategy includes a staff reduction independent of the Fred Richards savings. It is
calculated as "reduce I full-time position, net of part-time adds" and equals roughly $50,000 per
year. How is this assumption no longer possible with Fred open?
The Save the Fred Association Golf Operations Proposal Option 3 assumes that closing the
Braemar exec is roughly equal to closing FR. This could be problematic for several reasons. —
We don't think it's roughly equal, we think it's worth significantly more due to the capital
avoidance (Braemar Exec course construction & Irrigation replacement), and potential lower
capital requirement for conversion to a future land use.
• We spend approximately $30,000 per year for new equipment at Fred Richards. At Braemar
all of the equipment is shared between the 36 holes.
Your need for maintenance equipment is primarily driven by two things:
1) Time requirements — you need all courses to be ready for play in advance of I st tee
time in the early morning
2) Usage — the more equipment is used, the sooner it needs to be replaced
Even if you share equipment at Braemar, the Braemar Exec causes the equipment
usage to increase, and we would expect it needs maintenance to be performed at
the same early morning time as the other courses in order to be ready on time. As
a result, eliminating that course will result in less future equipment purchases (less
usage and time constraints). Help us understand how this is not the case?
- We also want to address the NGF Golf study, which commented "Richards tends to get
carts and other equipment as 'hand-me-downs' from the Braemar operation, which is
appropriate given the structure of the Edina golf system."
o Why do you think you need new equipment at Fred every year in the future, when
it seems like you are not doing this now?
• One full time staff person is employed at Fred Richards. We have no full time staff people
dedicated to the Braemar Executive Course. Operating expense and equipment savings
projected are high. — Our understanding is that there are some personnel that operate
both the Driving Range and Braemar Exec combined, and it's fair to think that you could
either come down a part-time with Braemar Exec closed, or at least change to a lower paid
employee if just dispensing range balls. We did factor in a lower personnel expense at
Braemar Exec as a result (roughly $45,000 less expense per year vs. Fred); so want to be
clear that this was factored into analysis and not a discrepancy vs. your beliefs.
• Staff believes that there are also advantages to having 36 holes at one location that don't
show up in the raw green fee numbers. A golfer at the Braemar Par 3 might buy range balls
and eat at the Braemar Grill. This helps us to create a golf "ecosystem" at Braemar that is
better than having golf on two separate campuses.
• There is a stronger likelihood that a golfer who starts at the Braemar Par 3 will make
Braemar their preferred golf course for the future.
• The concept of closing the Braemar Executive Course might have the same opposition from
golfers and neighbors as closing Fred Richards. — Potentially true. This is a primary reason
why we would recommend any closure be considered as part of a Master Plan with
community involvement. This is not what is happening right now with the Fred decision.
• Future CIP projects are not accounted for in The Save the Fred Association Golf
Operations Proposal Option 2 or Option 3. — They were not factored in your analysis,
either; and the first significant potential investment is not until 2020 and is very much
unknown. Including these in a Master Plan study will give you a better idea of timing, $
scope, and ranking of necessity. You may find these Fred investments in 2020 and beyond
are not critical for Fred (similar to NGF recommendation).
Staff is more comfortable portraying these options as different visions for the future instead of
trying to find things "wrong" with the Fred Richards Association assumptions. Staff remains
confident in the proposed City Staff Plan which leverages projected savings from the closing of
Fred Richards Golf Course and projected Braemar golf and driving range revenues while
concentrating all personnel, equipment and financial resources at Braemar in order to fund the
driving range expansion project. This will also favorably position the golf enterprise for the
future which will allow us to continue to invest in our core golf product at Braemar.
What is the demand for golf in the future? We've heard from some that "growing the game" is
important, closing Fred Richards is short sighted and if we keep 45 golf holes and provide
better marketing that the golfers will come — we understand this is a risk; hence are brainstorm additional options beyond theselnclusion through a f
option 3 and encouragement for staff to brae
Master Plan. This is possible, however after studying 15 years of decline in golf operations it is
not difficult to come to a different conclusion. Staff believes that now is the time for difficult
action in order to best position our Braemar golf enterprise for the future.
Recommendation
Staff requests that the City Council consider one of the following options:
I. Do Nothing
A. Keep Fred Richards Golf Course
B. Make no improvements at Braemar
2. Staff Recommendation
A. Close Fred Richards Golf Course at the end of the 2014 season
B. Begin driving range and executive course renovations in the fall of 2014
C. Begin Braemar master plan after driving range and executive course renovations are
completed
3. Staff Recommendation with Revisions
A. Conditionally close Fred Richards Golf Course - what do you mean by
"conditionally"...what would this decision be tied to in the future?
B. Begin driving range and executive course renovations in the fall of 2014
C. Begin Braemar master plan in 2014
4. Do Everything
A. Keep Fred Richards Golf Course Open
B. Begin Braemar master plan in 2014
C. Begin driving range and executive course renovations in the fall of 2014
D. Improve Braemar per the master plan
5. Save the Fred Association Option
A. Make a decision on the future of Fred Richards Golf Course in November 2014
B. Begin driving range and executive course renovations in the fall of 2014
C. Complete Steps 2 — 6 of City Staff Plan
I. Invest in Improvements at Braemar
2. Modify Prices and Discounts
3. Outsource Ancillary Services
4. Expand Marketing
5. Improve Customer Service
Staff continues to recommend Option #2: Staff Recommendation.
Attachments:
Attachment A — March 4, 2014 City Council Meeting Agenda Item # VI.B. Staff Report
Attachment B — Fre
N NNNNNNNNNN N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N NN
From: Kris Quicksell [_mailto:krisC1weQlaw com] On Behalf Of Jane Prince
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 3:46 PM
To: Edina Mail; 'City Council Member Joni Bennett'; Mary Brindle (Comcast); 'City Council Member Josh
Sprague'; 'City Council Member Ann Swenson'; 'City Attorney Roger Knutson'
Subject: Letter to Mayor Hovland, Edina City Council and City Attorney Roger Knutson
BY ELECTRONIC AND U.S. MAIL March 17, 2014
Mayor James Hovland
Members of the City Council
City Attorney Roger Knutson
City of Edina
4801 W. 50th St.
Edina, MN 55424
Mayor Hovland, Members of the City Council and City Attorney Knutson:
I have been retained by a group of residents involved in the Save The Fred Organization
(hereinafter "my Client") to call your attention to significant legal issues about the
connected actions before the Edina CleVyethe citizensuright through any means
ouncil on Tesday, March 18. It is -MY
intention by way of this letter to pres
necessary including judicial review.
Based on the information in the affidavits attached hereto, clearly Councilmember Josh
Sprague has a conflict of interest as defined in Minn. Stat. § 471.87 and described in
Minnesota A.G. Op. 430 (Apr. 28,1967). The City Council must investigate this conflict
of interest and Councilmember Sprague must recuse
himself
l ment. any voting regarding
Redevelopment.
Fred Richards golf course and the Pentagon Park p
Furthermore, based on false and incorrect statements of City Planner Cary Teague at
the most recent City Council Meeting held on March 4, 2014 regarding the City's denial
of a determination that the connected Fred Richada ridPentagon Park to Minn. Rules 4410�4300ect aii ty
meet the requirements for a Mandatory EAW pursuant
clients will take all actions necessary to require the City to conduct an environmental
review as required by the rules.
Specifically, the actions before the City Council at issue are:
r xT-N" ea 4-- TAT Tn and Ch
■ 1 reurnlndi 1\C6v1ui•-
Pentaj Revival, Resolution No. 2014-29
■ Consideration of Citizens' Petition For Environmental Assessment Worksheet
(EAW) for Conversion of the Fred Richards Golf Course in Edina, Resolution
No. 2014-30
■ Golf Course Operations Study
■ Pentagon Park Redevelopment - Authorizing Preparation Of Redevelopment
Agreement
The aforementioned legal issues are presented herein.
FACT SUMMARY
The residents of the neighborhoods adjacent to the Fred Richards Golf Course
nor engaged in a public
(hereinafter "the Fred") having neitherbeenis linkeddirectlyectly to the redevelopmentprocess, f ss,
have learned that the closing of the F
Pentagon Park by Hillcrest Development.
The records show that Hillcrest has been in negotiations
the
Edina City Manager staff
and City council, for over one year, dating back to fall of 2012.
Scott Neal retained a consultant to look into consolidating golf operations in May 2013.
My Client learned of the proposed closing of the Fred through a newspaper articleM in
which Mayor Jim Hovland stated, "If the consultant should recommend consolidation
of all the city's golf operations at Braemar... no such decision [on the future of the Fred]
would be made without extensive public input."
On October 7, 2013 at an open house hosted by Hillcrest about the redevelopment of
Pentagon Park, my Client saw for first time several exhibits (included in the City
Council's March 18 meeting packet) that showed the Fred replaced with parkland and
an integrated storm water system.
Speaking for Hillcrest, Scott Tankenoff told my Client that he had been in discussions
with City Council Members about Pentagon Park for approximately one year.
Councilmembers had assured Tankenoff that a decision on the fate of the Fred was
forthcoming, Tankenoff said, because of that decision's direct impact on the Hillcrest's
plans.
On November 5, 2013, Mayor Hovland met with a small group of concerned neighbors
(including my Client) regarding the future of the Fred, and assured them that there
would be an open, participative and extended process to ensure that all viewpoints
would be heard, and neighborhood involvement maximized.
On December 11, 2013 meeting of the Edina Planning Commission, Hillcrest submitted
its development proposal to the Planning Commission with two alternatives: a
"Minimalist" option with the Fred in place, and a "Larger Vision" option, involving the
repurposing of the Fred, and the linking of new trails. At the meeting, Tankenoff
expressed a strong preference for the second option, and acknowledged the importance
of integrating the Fred into the redevelopment.
On January 30, 2014, at a public meeting held at the Braemar Golf Course, City Manager
Scott Neal presented City's Golf Operations Study, a six -point plan which included
closure of the Fred. Contrary to the assurances from city officials since August 2013,
there was no evidence that the City had considered any plan that did not include
closing the Fred.
On February 11, 2014, a public hearing was held at the Edina Parks Commission on the
City's Golf Operations Study, including the plan to close the Fred.
On March 4, 2014, City Manager Neal acknowledged that the City of Edina had
received a request for a Mandatory Environmental Assessment Worksheet, related to
the conversation of the Fred Richards Golf Course. City Planner Cary Teague told the
City Council that in conversation with staff of the Environmental Quality Board, the
project at issue did not trigger the requirement for a mandatory EAW.
ISSUES
ACCESS AS A PUBLIC OFFICIAL FOR PERSONAL FINAN
Ill Edina council has not decided future of Fred Richards course, Edina Sun Current, August 7, 2013.
GAIN AND MUST RECUSE HIMSELF FROM VOTING ON ALL RELATED
MATTERS.
The attached sworn statements provide sufficient
demonstrate
confidential
al Council
Member Sprague has used information to which he has access
negotiations and meetings with Hillcrest Development to influence purchasers and sell
homes in the Lake Edina neighborhood. These business
officetics go Edina.directly to Council
Member Sprague's character and fitness to hold public
The affidavits show that Council Member Sprague said that Hillcrest was in
negotiations to land a [major internet corporation] as a tenant.121
A post card mailed to homes throughout the Fred Richards neighborhood on Saturday,
March 15, reads: "Josh Sprague Gets The J°ith hotos of several The affidavits homes he
recently has sold in the immediate neighborhood of the Fred
demonstrate that Council Member Sprague is willing to profit from information he
alone has access to as a council member, and is willing to leverage his vote to keep the
promises he makes to prospective buyers.
Council
confidentiaSprague's
access to a member of the
conveys to prospective buyers that they will have
Edina City Council.
Further, it should be immediately alarming to City Attorney Knutson, if not to the
whole city council, that Council Member Sprague's strongly stated support of pending
zoning applications related to the Pentagon Park proposal may already have put the
City of Edina at risk of potential lawsuits in connected land use actions related to the
Pentagon Park redevelopment. Council Member Sprague has set the stage for
successful claims of procedural due process violations by future appellants in all land
use matters at Pentagon Park. 131
THE CLOSING OF THE FRED TO FACILITATE THE DEVELOPER'S PREFERRED
PENTAGON PARK REDEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVE TRIGGERS A MANDATORY
EAW UNDER STATE LAW.
In its recommendation for denial of the request for a Mandatory EAW, staff states that
closing the golf course is not a "project" as the term is defined in Minnesota Rules
4410.0200, Subd. 65, because the closure of the Fred would not "result in the physical
manipulation of the environment, directly, or indirectly."
In the packet before the City Council for its March 18 Meeting, Hillcrest Development
presents its preferred alternative, based on closing the Fred, which results precisely in
turning the golf course into a park thaTkc The exh b is that adates the �e included in your and
Council
ponding requirements of Pentagon Pa
packet are sufficient to demonstrate such physical manipulation
[21 The affiant was told the name of the corporation, but it is not our intention by way of this letter to reveal
the subject of confidential negotiations between the Developer and prospective tenants.
[3] See Continental Property Group, Inc. v. City of Minneapolis, 2011 WL 1642510
The council packet is rife with language that demonstrates project linkage. For example,
the document, "Pentagon Park Master Term Sheet," Paragraph 17 (b) pertaining to
Stormwater Runoff, states that "In the event that the city decides to change the public
use of the Fred Richards golf course site, both parties will work cooperatively to explore
opportunities to improve water quality and utilize storm water as an amenity or
feature." This alone constitutes "manipulation of the physical environment" in the
84 -acre parcel, making the requirement for the EAW mandatory.
At the March 4 City Council meeting, Council Member Sprague discussed a significant
financial benefit available to the City through the linkage of the two
projects. Regarding the Fred, he explained, "If it remains a golf course, you can't use
TIF for the adjacent development. If it's no longer a golf course, it can be used for
stormwater management, trails, sidewalks, pathways ... and for maintenance." Citing
the Centennial Lakes development, "where you have a CAM [a tenant's common area
maintenance charge] to support adjacent public space," he pointed out, "At Pentagon
Park, you could charge a CAM that would help support the park."
"Yes," Council Member Sprague concluded, "TIF is a potential funding source for both
capital improvements and maintenance of a future park on the site." In effect, Council
Member Sprague makes clear that closing of the Fred is a prerequisite to the
development of the future park on the 84 acre parcel, through the availability of TIF
financing. According to the Minnesota Rules 4410.0200, Subd. 9c, this linkage fulfills
the requirement for a mandatory EAW.141
Scott Tankenoff also demonstrates that closing the Fred is a prerequisite for Pentagon
Park: "There comes a point where we can't wait," Tankenoff said. "Are we integrating
our land or not."151 Tankenoff makes no secret that his preferred project depends on
closing the Fred.
When City Council votes to close the Fred and simultaneously votes to advance the
Pentagon Park redevelopment, it removes all doubt that Pentagon Park is an 84 -acre
project, requiring a mandatory EAW.
IRREGULARITIES EXIST CONCERNING THE ADVICE PROVIDED TO CITY
COUNCIL BY CARY TEAGUE REGARDING THE REQUEST FOR A MANDATORY
EAW
At the city council meeting on March 4, Development Director Carrie Teague falsely
stated that in a telephone conversation with the staff of the Environmental Quality
Board, he was advised that the project that was the subject of a Citizen Petition for an
EAW, "did not fall within the mandatory category."
In a follow up discussion between my Client and the staff of the EQB, my Client learned
that this statement is false, because EQB staff do not offer such advice as a matter of
[4] In its denial of the need for an EAW, staff states, "Closing of the golf course and the proposed Pentagon
Park redevelopment are not a connected action as that term is defined in Minnesota Rules 4410.0200, Subd. 9c. One
project does not induce the other, one `project' is not a prerequisite for the other, and both `projects' stand alone."
s Sam Black, Is there room for golf in Pentagon Park plan? Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal, Dec. 6, 2013
law. The determination of whether a mandatory EAW is required must be made by
the Responsible Governmental Unit, the City of Edina, not the EQB.
GIVEN THE SERIOUSNESS OF THESE MATTERS, MY CLIENT REQUESTS:
1. That Council Member Sprague be required to recuse himself from voting on the
future of the Fred Richard Golf Course, and all related matters, on Tuesday, March
18, and at any date in the future.
2. That if the City Council determines that no linkage exists between the Fred and the
Pentagon Park Development, that the City delay its decision regarding the Fred
indefinitely and launch a thorough evaluation and public process aimed at
preserving it.
3. That the City Council table its action on the mandatory EAW, while it investigates
irregularities relating to Development Director Teague's assurances, determinations
and representations of statements made by EQB which he made at the March 4 city
council meeting.
4. That this letter serve as a request, pursuant to the Minnesota Government Data
Practices Act, Minn. Stat. § 13.01, et seq. for all communications including emails
between Council Member and Hillcrest Development relating to the Pentagon Park
Development and the Fred Richards Golf Course, for the time period beginning on
January 1, 2013, through the date of the responses.
5. My Client renews the request of July 22, made on its behalf, under the Minnesota
Government Data Practices Act, for all information relating to the change in use,
improvement or redevelopment of the Fred Richards Golf Course, or face penalties
pursuant to Minn. Stat. 13.08.
Finally, with a sincere interest in resolving all the issues raised herein, My Client
welcomes the opportunity to enter into constructive discussions with the City of Edina
and Hillcrest Development to explore ways to accommodate stormwater, ponding and
related needs of the proposed Pentagon Park development within a permanent public
Fred Richards Golf Course.
Sincerely,
Jane L. Prince
for
WEINBLATT & GAYLORD PLC
JLP:kq
Encl.
CC: (without enclosures, via electronic mail)
Minnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson
Hillcrest Development
Minneapolis Star Tribune
Edina Sun Current
Weinblatt & Gaylord, PLC
5874 Blackshire Path
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Phone: 651-292-8770
Fax: 651-223-8282 or 651-451-5872
NOTICE: This communication may contain privileged or other confidential information. Ifyou are not the
intended recipient, or believe thatyou have received this communication in error, please do not print, copy,
retransmit, disseminate, or otherwise use the information contained herein. Also, please notify sender thatyou
have received this communication in error, and delete the copy thereofyou have received. Thankyou.
WE11N13LATT & 4CGAYLORD PLC
. ATTO RNIIVS SC COU NS IILO RS AT LA\V
$874 Bluckshira Puth -
Inver Or— Heights, INN 55076 ' � Alun W. Weinblatt
Teielshnne: (651) 292-8770 l - JCnthl —A. Gnylord
Fuc: (651) 223-8282JaY Benanav
Website: www.wu(jluw.com /' June L. Prhtce
March 17, 2014
BY ELECTI20NIC ANO U.S. MAIL
Mayor James Hovland
Members of the City Council
City Attorney Roger Knutson - -
City of Edina - - - - - -
4801 W. 50�h St.
Edina, MN 55424 - - -
Mayor Hovland, Members of the City Council and City Attorney Knutson:
I have been retained by a group of residents involved in the Save The Fred Organization
(hereinafter "my Cliene') to call your attention to significant legal issues about the
connected actions before the Edina City Council on Tuesday, March 18. It is my
intention by Way of this Ietter to preserve the citizens' rights through any means
necessary including judicial review. - -
Based on the information in the affidavits attached hereto, clearly Councilmember Joah
Sprague has a conflict of interest as defined in Minn. Stat. § 471.87 and described in
Minnesota A.G. Op. 430 (Apr. 28, 1967). The City Council must investigate this conflict
of interest and CO mcilmember Sprague must recuse himself from any voting regarding
Fred Richards golf course and the Pentagon Park Redevelopment.
Furthermore, based on false and incorrect statements of City Planner Cary Teague at
the most recent City Council Meeting held on March 4, 2014 regarding the City's denial
of a determination that the connected Fred Richards and Pentagon Park project fail to
meet the requirements for a Mandatory EAW pursuant to Minn. Rules 4410.4300, my
clients will take all actions necessary to require the City to conduct an environmental
review, as required by the rules. -
Specifically, the actions before the City Council at issue are:
Preliminary Rezoning From MMD -6 to PLTD and Overall Development Plan,
Pentagon Revival, Resolution No. 2014-29
Consideration of Citizens' Petition For Environmental Assessment Worksheet
(EAW) for Conversion of the Fred Richards Golf Course in Edina, Resolution
No. 2014-30
Golf Course Operations Study
Pentagon Park Redevelopment - Authorizing Preparation Cif Redevelopment
Agreement
The. aforementioned legal issues are presented herein.
FACT SLTPAM ALRY
The residents of the neighborhoods adjacent to the Fred Richards Golf Course
(hereinafter "the Fred") having neither been notified nor engaged in a public process,
have learned that the closing of the Fred is linked directly to the redevelopment of
Pentagon Park by Hillcrest Development -
The records show that I Iillcrest has been in negotiations with the City of Edina, its staff
and City Council, for over one year, dating back to fall of 2012- Edina City Manager
Scott Neal retained a consultant to look into consolidating golf operations in May 2013.
My Client learned of the proposed closing of the Fred through a newspaper article' in
which Mayor Jim Hovland stated, "If the consultant should recommend consolidation
Of all the city's golf operations -at Braemar. -no such decision [on the future of the Fred]
would be made without extensive public input.-
On October 7, 2013 at an open house hosted by Hillcrest about the redevelopment of
Pentagon Park, my Client saw for first time several exhibits (included in the City
Council's March 18 meeting packet) that showed the Fred replaced with parkland and
an integrated storm water system_
Speaking for Hillcrest, Scott Tankenoff told my Client that he had been in discussions
with City Council Members about Pentagon Park for approximately one year_
Co ,.,E-1i**+embers had assured Tankenoff that a decision on the fate of the Fred was
forthcoming, Tankenoff said, because of that decisiori a direct inspact on the Fullerest's
Plana. -
On November 5, 2o13, Mayor Hovland met witYt a small group of concerned neighbors
(including my Client) regarding the.future of the Fred, and assured them that there
would be an open, participative and extended process to ensure that all Viewpoints
would be heard, and neighborhood involvement ma>dxr,ized.
On December 11, 2013 meeting of the Edina Planning Commission, Hillcrest submitted
its development proposal to the Planning Commission with two alternatives: a
"Minimalist" option with the Fred in place, and a "Larger Vision" option, involving the
repurposing of the Fred, and the IiinlEing of new trails. At the meeting, Tsnlcenoff
expressed a strong preference for the second option, and acknowledged the importance
of integrating the Fred into the redevelopment.
On January 30, 2014, at a public meeting held at the Braemar Golf Course, City Manager
Scott Neal presented City's Golf Operations Study, a six -point plan which included
closure of the Fred. Contrary to the assurances from city officials since August 2013,
8dtno coup 11 h— not dreidrdAtarr ofFrsd Rmhards eaurxr, Edind Sun C—nt, August 7, 2013.
there was no evidence that the City had considered any plan that did not include
closing the Fred.
On February 11, 2014, a public hearing was held at the Edina Parks Commission on the
City's Golf Operations Study, including the plan to close the Fred.
On March 4, 2014, City Manager Neal acknowledged that the City of Edina had
received a request for a Mandatory Environmental Assessment Worksheet, related to
the conversation of the Fred Richards Golf Cotuse_ City Planner Cary Teague told the -
City Council that in conversation with staff of the Environmental Quality Board, the
project at issue did not trigger the requirement for a mandatory EAW.
ISSLTES
COUNCIL MEMBER SPRAGLJE HAS EXQ LOITLD CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
TO WHICH 13E HAS ACCESS AS A PUBLIC OFFICIAL FOR PERSONAL FINANCIAL
GAIIV, AND MUST RECUSE HIMSELF FROM VOTING ON ALL RELATED
MATTERS. -
The attached swam statements provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate that Council
Member Sprague has used information to which he has access from confidential
negotiations and meetings with Hillcrest Development to influence purchasers and sell
harnes in the Lake Edina neighborhood. These business tactics go directly to Council
Member Sprague's character and fitness to hold public. office in Edina.
The affidavits show that Council Member Sprague said that Hillcrest was in _
negotiations to land a [major internet corporation] as a tenant s
A post card mailed to homes throughout the Fred Richards neighborhood on Saturday,
March 15, reads: "Josh Sprague Gets The Job Done," with photos of several homes he
recently has sold in the immediate neighborhood of the Fred. The affidavits
demonstrate that Council Member Sprague is willing to profit from information he
alone has access to as a council member, and is willing to leverage his vote to keep the
promises he makes to prospective buyers. Council Member Sprague s demeanor also
conveys to prospective buyers that they will have confidential access to a member of the
Edina City Council_
Further, it should be immediately alarrming to City Attorney Knutson, if not to the
whole city council, that Council Member Sprague's strongly stated support of pending
zoning applications related to the Pentagon Park proposal may already have put the
City of Edina at risk of potential lawsuits in connected land use actions related to the
Pentagon Park redevelopment. Council Member Sprague has set the stage for
The affiant was told the name of the corporation, but it is not our intention by way of this letter to reveal the
subject of conSdential negotiations between the Developer and praspectIve tenants_
successful claims.of procedural due process violations by future appellants in all land
use matters at Pentagon Park? -
TI3E CLOSING OF THE FRED TO FACII..ITATE TFiE DEVELOPER'S PREFERRED
PENTAGON PARK REDEV.ELOPML-NT ATTL-IMTRIGGERS A MANDATORY
EAW UNDER STATE LAW. _.....
In its recommendation for denial of the request for a Mandatory EAW, staff states that
closing the golf course is not a "project" as the term is defined in Minnesota Rules
4410.0200, Subd. 65, because the closure of the Fred would not "result in the physical
manipulation of the environment, directly, or indirectly.-
-
.In the packet before the City Council for its March IS Meeting, Hillcrest Development
presents its preferred alternative, based on closing the Fred, which results precisely in
turning the golf course into a park that accommodates the stormwater runoff and
ponding requirements of Pentagon Park. The exhibits that are included in your.council
packet are sufficient to demonstrate such physical manipulation
The council packet is rife with language that demonstrates project linkage. For example,
the document "Pentagon Park Master Term Sheet,- Paragraph 17 (b) pertaining to
Stormwater Runoff, states that "In the event that the city decides to change the public
use of the Fred Richards golf course site, both parties will work cooperatively to explore
opportunities to improvewater quality and utilize storm water as an amenity or
feature-- 'rMa alone constitutes "manipulatiorn of the physical environment" in the
84 -acre parcel, making the requirement for the EAW mandatory..
At the March 4 City Council meeting, Council Member Sprague discussed a significant
financial benefit available to the City through the linkage of the two projects. -
Regarding the Fred, he explained, "If it remains a golf course, you taxi t use TIF for the
adjacent development. If it's no longer a golf course, it can be used for stormwater
management, trails, sidewalks, pathways...and for maintenance." Citing the
Centennial Lakes development, "where you have a CAM [a tenant's common area
maintenance charge] to support adjacent public space," he pointed out "At Pentagon
Park, you could charge a CAM that would help support the park.-
- Yes,"
ark.""Yes," Council Member Sprague concluded, -= is a potential funding source for both
capital improvements and maintenance of a future park on the site." In effect Council
Member Sprague makes clear that closing of the Fred is a prerequisite to the
development of the future park on the 84 acre parcel, through the availability of TIF
' See Continental Property Group. Inc. V. City of Minneapolis, 2011 VVT_ 1642510 -
financing_ According to the Minnesota Rules 4410.0200, Subd. 9c, this linkage fulfills
the requirement for a mandatory EAW.-
Scott Tankenoff also demonstrates that closing the Fred is a prerequisite for Pentagon
Park: "There comes a point where we can't wait," Tankenoff said. "Are we integrating
our land or not. -s Tankenoff makes no secret that his preferred project depends on
closing the .Fred_
When City Council votes to close the Fred and simultaneously votes to advance the
Pentagon Park redevelopment it removes all doubt that Pentagon Park is an 84 -acre
project, requiring a mandatory EAW. -
IRREGULARITIES EXIST CONCERNING THE ADVICE PROVIDED TO CITY
COUNCIL BY CARY TEAGUE REGARDING 'I'I3E REQUEST FOR A MANDATORY
EAW
At the city council meeting on March 4, Development Director Carrie Teague falsely
stated that in a telephone conversation with the staff of the Environmental Quality
Board, he was advised that the project that was the subject of a Citizen Petition fax an
EAW, "did not fall within the mandatory category." -
In a follow up discussion between my Client and the staff of the EQB, my Client learned
that this statement is false, because EQB staff an not nffer such advice ns a matter ofz _
The determination of whether a mandatory EAW is required must be made by the
Responsible Governmental Unit, the City of Edina, not the EQB. -
GIVEN THE SERIOUSNESS OF TI-IE4E MATTERS, MY CLIENT. REQUESTS: -
1. That Council Member Sprague be required to recuse himself from voting on the
future of the Fred Richard Golf Course, and all related matters, on Tuesday, March
18, and at any date in the future.
2. That if the City Council determines that no linkage exists between the Fred and the
Pentagon park Development that the City delay its decision regarding the Fred
indefinitely and launch a thorough evaluation and public process aimed at
preserving it.
3. That the City Council table its action on the mandatory EAW, while it investigates
irregularities relating to Development Director Teague's assurances, determinations
and representations of statements made by EQB which he made at the March 4 city
council meeting. - -
In its denlal of the need for as EAW, staff states, •*Closing ofthe golf course and the proposed Pentagon
Park redevelopment are not a connected action as that teem is donned in Minnesota Rules 4410.0200,. Subd. 9c. One
Jlraicct does not induce the other, one 'project' is not a prorequislte for the other, and both 'projects' stand alone. -
Sam Black, Jo there ruo,a fur yoUla Psnroaon Po kPtoaP Minncnpolis/St. Poul Bust—* Journal, Dao. 6, 2013
5
4. That this Ietter serve as a request, pursuant to the Minnesota Government Data
Practices Act Minn- Stat_ § 13.01, et seq.. for all communications including emails
between Council Member and Hillcrest Development relating to the Pentagon Park
Development and the Fred Richards Golf Course, for the time period beginning on
January 1, 2013, through the date of the responses.. .
5. My Client renews the request of July 22, made on its behalf, under the Minnesota
Government Data Practices Act, for all information relating to the change in use,
improvement or redevelopment of the Fred Richards Golf Course, or face penalties
pursuant to Minn. Stat. 13.08.
Finally, with a sincere interest in resolving all the issues raised herein, My Client
welcomes the opportunity to enter into constructive discussions with the City of Edina
and Hillcrest Development to explore ways to accommodate stornvwater, ponding and
related needs of the proposed Pentagon Park development within a permanent public
Fred Richards Golf Course.
Sincerely,.
if Jane
for
WEINBLATT 8z GAYLO[2D PLC
JLP:kq -
Encl.
CC: (without enclosures, via electronic mail) -
Minnnnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson
Hillcrest Development -
Minnespolis Star Tribune - - -
]Edina Sun Current
6
Kevin's notes re: Josh Sprague
From an open house hosted by Josh for the sale of a home on
West shore drive near 70 street. 3/16/2014
After getting a brief intro of the house and it's spec.'s and taking a
tour of the house, I asked Josh what he could tell me about the
area;
He immediately pulled out his phone to show me an airial map of
the area and the location of the house.
- He showed me the location Cornelia school and spoke of its
amazing principle.
- He pointed out Cornelia lake and pool, and Arneson
Acres.
-He then jumped to the stream that runs through the area west
Of 100, how it connects to the lake on the east side of 100, that
there is a Hike/bike path system that runs along the stream and
then explained that the plan is to have it connect to a path that will
continue on through what is now a golf course (Fred Richards)
then continue through the neighborhood into the centennial lakes
area and on into Richfield.
- "The only section that has to be converted to link it all
together is the golf course and "if it gets approved" the plan is
to convert that area into a park area with paths and ball parks, etc.
-We then talked about how the Pentagon Office park area is to
be converted to all new class A office space with retail for
residential as well as housing and Condo's. 50 Million Dollars has
already been committed to that project.
-He then told me about the Centennial lakes extension under
the Galleria mall.
-He finished with, this area of Edina should do very well
over the next several years with all the new amenities that are in
the works.
im, 2017 �
AFFIDAVIT OF RENEE HUNZELMAN
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
)ss.
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN )
RENEE HUNZELMAN, being duly sworn, does state:
I attended an open house hosted y Edina
eality and Edina
ity
Member josh Sprague on March 15, 2014, xC
7000 West ShoreDrive.ouncil
After briefly looking in basement of the house, I was greeted by josh, who shared
a few details about the house.
josh then pointed out the house proximity to the many Edina parks in the
area. He showed me a detailed packet of printed information that showed the
parks in the Cornelia neighborhood.
Mr. Sprague went on to explain that he was an Edina council member and after
the upcoming city council meeting, Fred Richards Golf would most likely be
repurposed to become athletic fields with walking paths and retention ponds
very similar to Centennial Lakes Park.
Using a map from his have Nine Mile Project biking trails bile device, Mr. Sprague further l
ained the Fred
Richards property running through a
portion of the property.
Mr. Sprague pointed out the Pentagon Office complex will be rebuilt with retail,
office space, dinning and eventually high density housing. He pointed out that
the developer is currently negotiating with Google Maps as a potential tenant.
Further Affiant sayeth not.
RENEE HUNZELMAN
SANDRA K. MARI-HALER
NO':-PY PUBLIC
Mi 2017
AFFIDAVIT OF MARY HUGHES
STATE OF MINNESOTA)
)ss.
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN )
MARY HUGHES, being duly sworn, does state:
On Saturday, March 15, 2014 at approximately 1:10 p.m., I had a conversation
with Edina Council Member Josh Sprague at the open house he was hosting at
West Shore Drive. I asked Josh to tell me about the neighborhood.
Josh explained how convenient the location was to most major roads, showed me
on his phone how convenient the house was to shopping and then proceeded to
show me parks that were in the area.
He mentioned how park -friendly Edina is. He said that the present Fred
Richards course would be closed for future parks and developments. He
mentioned that there would be restaurants and bike paths and run-off streams,
etc., in the area which is now Fred Richards.
He went on to explain how this new bike path would connect to the nine -mile
creek plan and how it would allow people to travel to the Mall of America and
all the way to Minnetonka.
I told him that sounded great. I asked how people would get to the bike path
and he was very vague. He didn't go into detail where the path would be. But
when I asked if you could enter the bike path from this neighborhood, he was
very positive and said that you would be able to enter at multiple places.
He went how to say how amazing the future area would be and that it would be
awesome with all the new restaurants, etc. That is about the extent of the
conversation.,
Further Affiant sayeth not.
Subscribed and sworn to before me
this JI A day of March, 2014.
MaAtko-(2t,
NOTARY PUBLIC
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN.....NNNN
From: Gary Soule [mailto:gsoulel(acomcast.net]
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 2:27 PM
To: swensonannl(algmail.com; Mary Brindle (Comcast); ion ibennettl2(a>comcast.net; Edina Mail
Subject: Braemar Operational Proposal
Dear Edina Council Members,
I am very supportive of both Braemar and of Fred Richards. I am current
member and a past president of the Braemar Men's Club, the largest in the
state. Improvements do need to be accomplished at Braemar. I support that
completely.
I am also very supportive of junior golf, which really holds the future for golf
in Minnesota and elsewhere. I have voluntarily run the Braemar Junior
Leagues program at Braemar for 17 years. 2014 will be my 18th year. It is
harder and harder to increase the involvement of kids into golf, what with all
of the competing activities that they seem to have. Nevertheless, the Braemar
junior programs are full every year, again the largest in the state.
Fred Richards is a nearly ideal venue to introduce young golfers into the
game. It is completely paid for and, if I understand correctly, with all of the
capital investment paid for by money from the Braemar enterprise, with the
exception of the last year's payment. Fred Richards has been generating
positive income. There has been very little, if any, promotion of this golf
course to the greater community. With the proposed development to the south
of Fred Richards, including a hotel, the potential for achieving maximum
course usage with a bit of promotion should be very great. When I was a
businessman who traveled for my work, I frequently would look for the
opportunity to find a golf course where I could play 9 holes within proximities
to my hotels. Fred Richards could well be that course for future tenants of the
hotel, as well as, an opportunity for leagues for the new businesses that will
reside in the new complex.
I could continue to attempt to list the reasons that I support keeping Fred
Richards open. However, I heard many, many good and reasonable reasons
expressed at the 3 meetings that I have attended regarding this proposal. Not
much more needs to be said.
Perhaps my very greatest concern is the process that has occurred regarding
this proposal. My educational training is at the master's level in Community
Organization. This process has lacked the barest of fundamentals regarding
involvement of the community. This is a big deal. This proposal cries out for
community involvement. Mayor Hoveland's suggestion that Fred Richards be
kept open through the 2015 season makes great sense. This would give the city
time to really involve the community in a meaningful way.
I am hopeful that the council will move the Braemar portion of this proposal
forward, while extending more time to involve the community and seek
alternative options to the closing of Fred Richards at the end of the 2014 golf
season.
Respectfully,
Gary Soule
7324 West Shore Drive
Edina, MN 55435
952-925-5053
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
From: Melanie McCall[ma i Ito: mela n iemcca I I (cbcomcast. net]
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 1:43 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: For the City Council regarding Fred Richards
To the City Council:
Please indefinitely defer the vote to close the Fred Richards golf course. Fred
Richards is a unique resource, in particular for the kids and the seniors in our
community. I am also strongly opposed to any loss of public space to support
any "ponding" or Storm Water Drainage for the private new development at
Pentagon Office Park.
Respectfully,
Melanie McCall
306 Dearborn Court
Edina, 55343
NNNNNNNN N NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN N NNNNNNNN
From: Elaine's Gmail [mailto:elainekoyama gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 1:06 PM
To: Edina Mail; jonibennettl2 comcast.net; Mary Brindle (Comcast); joshsprague(abedinarealty.com;
swensonanni@gmail.com
Cc: szimmerman(dinterlinxassociates.com; leekzimmerman(-Oearthlink. net
Subject: Fred Richards Golf Course
I see that there's a petition to "save the Fred." I felt compelled to express my opinion, that while
Fred Richards is a wonderful asset to the community, golf numbers are down, and we have one
of the best golf courses at Braemar. I would rather see the city funnel their resources to Braemar,
support and expand this community course that is competitive with private clubs, and cut the
losses at Fred Richards.
We all have fond memories of Fred Richards—my kids all played there at some point—but we
have to move on, face financial reality, and invest where we will get the best return for our
money. We can then repurpose Fred Richards into something more relevant to the community.
Regards,
E(,ai,r�.� Ko-yav�.a•
elainekoyamaggmail.com
Cell: 612-940-5002
6608 Nordic Drive
Edina, MN 55439
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN.....NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
From: DENA[mailto:dtortorelisCabcomcast.netj
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 9:51 AM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Vote to delay closing Fred Richards
Dear Mayor Hovland,
I am writing to ask you to please delay a decision on closing Fred Richards Golf
Course until after the 2014 golf season! There is no reason for the council to
rush this decision before further study and consideration of the issue is
undertaken. Fred Richards golf course has served the community for over 40 years
and deserves more than a month of consideration! Once it is gone, it can never be
brought back. This is a wonderful and useful place for many people and I can't
imagine an Edina without it! Please hold off voting to close it!!
Sincerely,
Dena Tortorelis
7441 West Shore Drive, Edina
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN.....NNNN
From: Heirigs, Wayde [mailto:Wayde.HeirigsPATK.COMI
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 8:47 AM
To: ioshsprague@edinarealtv.com; Mary Brindle (Comcast); Edina Mail; ionibennettl2@Dcomcast.net;
swensonannlPgmail.com
Subject: FW: Golf Course Recommendation for Tuesday Night
I sent an e-mail earlier about closing Fred Richards and stated there is no risk in delaying the vote. Even
the staff point out the only risk is we may change our mind and not commit to the plan to reduce our
costs. If we are afraid of not committing to closing the Fred in November that tells me the following:
1. We are unsure of our decision
2. We have not explored all the options
I think a decision as big as this should not be made prior to a master plan being developed. Especially if
we may change our minds and regret that decision later. There may be something better.
I disagree the pressure may be off in the fall. If we do not achieve our revenue projections from the
driving range expansion the pressure will be even greater to reduce our costs.
Wayde Heirigs
Vice President, Chief Accountant and Interim Treasurer Alliant Techsystems Inc.
7480 Flying Cloud Road
Eden Prairie MN, 55344
Office 952-351-3016
Cell 612-695-7399
-----Original Message -----
From: Scott Neal [mailto:sneal@EdinaMN gov]
Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2014 10:37 AM
To: Heirigs, Wayde
Subject: RE: Golf Course Recommendation for Tuesday Night
Wayde -
If we are going to have a new driving range in place in 2015, we must make that decision now. If we are
going to fund that project with future cost reductions, I think it is prudent to commit to those reductions
now rather after the driving range contract is awarded. If we award the driving range contract prior to
making the decision on cost reductions, there is a chance that we will not commit to the cost reductions
in the future because the pressure to make them will be off.
If we award the driving range project based on hypothetical future revenues, there is a chance those
revenues will be achieved, which means we will have increased our debt load and not reduced our
operating expenses, which will take us in the wrong fiscal direction.
Scott
Scott Neal, City Manager
952-826-0401 1 Fax 952-826-0390
snea[C@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov
...For Living, Learning, Raising Families & Doing Business
-----Original Message -----
From: Heirigs, Wayde [mailto:Wayde.Heirigs ATK COM]
Sent: Friday, March 14, 2014 4:48 PM
To: Scott Neal
Cc: colleenwolfe5 comcast net; derek.iohnson@genmills.com; Ann Kattreh
Subject: Re: Golf Course Recommendation for Tuesday Night
Scott please explain how your approach has lower risk by making that decision now verses at the end of
the year.
Sent from my iPhone
> On Mar 14, 2014, at 3:40 PM, "Scott Neal" <sneal EdinaMN.gov_> wrote:
> Good Afternoon Colleen, Derek and Wayde —
> Per our discussion last Friday, I wanted to get back to you about what staff will be recommending to
the Council at the March 18 Council meeting concerning the future of the Fred Richards Golf Course.
Attached in the staff report that is included in the Council's prep packet for the March 18 meeting. The
staff report provides responses to a number of the questions that were raised during the March 4 public
hearing and also provides our recommendation at the end.
> Our staff recommendation has not changed. We continue to believe the most appropriate response
to the current and future goals we have for the City's golf enterprise is to close the Fred Richards course
at the end of the 2014 season. After meeting with the three of you, we have a much better
understanding of your proposal. We believe that our proposal leverages cost reductions that are under
our control while your proposal leverages potential revenues that might result from marketing and
operational changes. With respect, we believe our proposal has an overall lower level of risk, which we
believe makes it more feasible.
> One new element of the staff's recommendation is that we will recommend to the Council that we
initiate the master planning for Braemar Golf Course immediately. had previously recommended to
delay that master planning process until after the driving range is completed. We have identified a new
source of revenue that is available and appropriate for that task. We will also recommend to the Council
that they direct staff and allocate funds for the master planning process for the Fred Richards Golf
Course, if they decide to support the recommendation to close the course.
> Speaking for staff, we understand the sensitivity of what we are proposing. We know it is not popular.
There are no cheerleaders for austerity. Many supporters of The Fred are accusing us of "not listening"
to their concerns. Believe me, we can hear their concerns. We understand their concerns. But at the
same time, we have a received a broader mission from the City Council to improve the financial
performance of our recreational facilities. That mission is the driver of our analysis on this issue. We
will not beg or badger the Council to adopt our recommendation, but we will continue to recommend
our plan because we believe it helps bring our municipal golf enterprise to the future we desire for it.
> In the end, this is ultimately a City Council decision. Staff will implement their decision.
> Best Regards,
> Scott Neal
> City Manager
> <Item VIII B Golf Course Operations Study .docx>
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From: Heirigs, Wayde [ma i Ito: Wayde.Hei rigs (.&ATK.COM]
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 8:33 AM
To: joshspraQueCc edinarealtycom; Mary Brindle (Comcast); Edina Mail; jonibennettl2@comcast net;
swensonannl(abQmail com
Subject: Fred Richards
At the last city council meeting, Ann responded to questions from the council that a plan keeping
Fred Richards open for another year had been prepared and the alternative was chosen. This is
inconsistent with the responses we get when we talk about different alternatives with the staff
(see response below). I have read the materials sent to the council in advance of Tuesday's
meeting and understand a master plan is now being developed. I think it is premature to vote on
closing Fred Richards until look at all the alternatives can be reviewed and studied. There is no
risk to delay the vote until after the master plan is developed.
Wayde Heirigs
Vice President, Chief Accountant and Interim Treasurer
Alliant Techsystems Inc.
7480 Flying Cloud Road
Eden Prairie MN, 55344
Office 952-351-3016
Cell 612-695-7399
From: Ann Kattreh [mailto:AKattreh@EdinaMN gov]
Sent: Tuesday, February 18, 2014 12:11 PM
To: Heirigs, Wayde
Subject: RE: Park Board meeting
Hi Wayde,
More research is needed on our end to answer your questions directly. We did
not create a scenario which would keep Fred Richards open for a year and then
close it. I'll respond as soon as possible.
We have not prepared a plan for repurposing Fred Richards. We intend to
involve several stakeholders, including the City Council, Park Board and
neighbors to determine the future uses for the park space.
Sincerely,
Ann
Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director
952-826-0430 1 Fax 952-826-0385
I:
1 ) 1 AKattreh(a)EdinaMN qoy I www.EdinaMN.gov
...For Living, Learning, Raising Families & Doing Business
From: Heirigs, Wayde [_mailto:Wayde Heirigs(a>ATK COM]
Sent: Friday, February 14, 2014 2:12 PM
To: Ann Kattreh
Subject: RE: Park Board meeting
Ann thanks for the information. I do have a couple question. On page 11 you say
If a driving range project is to begin in the fall of 2014, it is critical for a decision on the closing of
FREC early in 2014. Final design, watershed approval and the bidding process will take several
months
Why is 2014 so critical and why would you close Fred Richards in 2015 when the executive
course at Braemar is closed?
On page 29 of 75 you show lost revenue of $142 and reduced expense of $65 during the
construction. Wouldn't that revenue or at least 50% of those rounds be played at Fred Richards
if it were open in 2015.
At the Park board meeting it was said that the Braemar Operations need the savings from Fred
Richards to pay for the driving range expansion. On page 25 of 75 you say closing Fred
Richards in FYI will reduce revenue by 169k and expenses by 228k thus saving the city
59K. I do not see why a decision needs to be made in 2014 to Close Fred Richards as closing
Fred Richards will not pay for the Range expansion prior to need for the money.
Actually if 50% of those rounds that would have been played at the Braemar executive
course(71k) were to be played at Fred Richards then keeping Fred Richards open in 2015 saves
the city 12k
So I am asking why do we need to make a decision in 2014 and why would you close Fred
Richards during the construction?
So far the explanation are not adding up.
Thank you in advance for your response
Wayde Heirigs
Vice President, Chief Accountant and Interim Treasurer
Alliant Techsystems Inc.
7480 Flying Cloud Road
Eden Prairie MN, 55344
Office 952-351-3016
Cell 612-695-7399
From: Ann Kattreh [mailto•AKattrehC-OEdinaMN.aov]
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2014 2:47 PM
To: Heirigs, Wayde
Subject: RE: Park Board meeting
Hi Wayde,
It is on Page 11 of the attached packet.
Thank you,
Ann
Ann Kattreh, Parks &Recreation Director
8 F 952-826-0430 1 Fax 952-826-0385
AKattreha-EdinaMN.00v I www.EdinaMN.aov
' ...For Living, Learning, Raising Families & Doing Business
From: Heirigs, Wayde [mailto•Wayde Heirios@ATK.COM]
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2014 2:38 PM
To: Ann Kattreh
Subject: Park Board meeting
Ann, last night one of the Board Members mentioned all the capital improvement needs at Fred
Richards if we were to leave the course open. I do not see that in the packet of information I
received. Could you please forward that information to me. I think she reference page 11.
Thank You
Wayde Heirigs
Vice President, Chief Accountant and Interim Treasurer
Alliant Techsystems Inc.
7480 Flying Cloud Road
Eden Prairie MN, 55344
Office 952-351-3016
Cell 612-695-7399
----------------------------------------------------
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From: fizwill@iuno.com [mailto:fizwill@iuno.com]
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2014 7:07 AM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Fred Richards Executive Golf Course
Dear Council Member:
There is a critical omission in the staff report on golf operations that has also been overlooked in the
discussions to date. Has anyone considered the absolutely unique opportunity that exists for making
FREC a real money -generating component in the golf operations? The renewed vitality that will come
with the new Pentagon Park redevelopment creates the perfect environment for substantial revenue
growth of FREC. Not only will there be much more activity and interest in the area, but deficiencies in
the FREC can be addressed during the development, such as poor access to the golf course. Since the
city is contemplating investments in the golf enterprise, wouldn't it make sense to use the Pentagon
redevelopment to jump start a renewal of FREC's prospects?
Please allow more time to consider the other exciting options open to the city regarding FREC. Vote to
table the decision on FREC, and take a closer look at the real opportunity for golf in Edina.
Respectfully,
Bill Hanson
7457 West Shore Drive
Edina, MN 55435
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From: Susan Soule [_mailto:su1b3so@comcast net]
Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2014 5:14 PM
To: Ann Swenson; Josh Sprague; Mary Brindle (Comcast); Joni Bennett; Edina Mail
Subject: Fred Richards Golf Course
Dear Mayor Hovland and City Council Members,
I urge you to Save Fred Richards Golf Course. I have written before and enumerated my reasons which
extend beyond those of the immediate neighbors of the course. The last few years have been atypical in
terms of course finances (golf dome fire, weather) and, as former General Manager Valliere has written,
Richards is now paid for and could be come a profit center with promotion by experienced golf marketing
professionals.
The cost and ongoing expenses of converting the course to a new use and then maintaining it have not
been clarified.
Perhaps most importantly, the process has been flawed It has been rushed and lacked community
involvement Compare this to the Grandview District planning.
would urge you, at the very least, to delay a final decision on the closure pending further study and
community involvement.
Thank you
Sincerely,
Susan Soule
7324 West Shore Drive
Edina
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From: Marie Sullivan[mailto•mariesullivan87@gmail.com]
Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2014 3:20 PM
To: Edina Mail; Joni Bennett; Josh Sprague; Mary Brindle (Comcast); ann swenson; Cary Teague; Scott
Neal
Subject: Fred Richards
Mayor Hovland, City Council Members, Planning Director and City Manager,
If Mr. Nick Hunzelman is correct in his letter to the The Sun Current last week that
Fred Richard's is not losing money, it suggests either of two very serious situations:
1). The City Council was unaware that Fred Richard's is profitable.
2). The City Council knew Fred Richard's is profitable but, having ulterior motives,
chose to ignore the truth.
If either of these two scenarios is correct, the injustice is even more serious because the
city publicly based their reasons for wanting to close the golf course on this
misinformation!
Please help me understand how I can interpret this.
Is it true that Fred Richards is not losing the money the city suggested it is? Is it true
the city is just looking for ways to spend more on Braemar which IS losing money? Is it
true the city council has already decided to make this land part of a Pentagon Park
development?
This decision needs to slow way down. There needs to be more input from residents,
more study, and above all, clear and accurate information so people don't feel there are
hidden agendas or deliberate misinformation for ulterior motives.
Sincerely,
Marie Sullivan
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From: Tom Sullivan[mailto:thomassullivan87Ca)gmail com]
Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2014 3:07 pM
To: Edina Mail; ionibennettl2@comcast nAt•
lo
swensonannlC mail com shspraaueCa�edinarealty com; Mary Brindle (Comcast);
Subject: Save the Fred
Dear Mayor Hovland and City Council Members,
I am writing in strong support of the Save the Fred campaign. I have spent the past two weeks
reading up on the issue and have come away with these thoughts:
1) I am extremely disappointed that the decision to close the Fred would be made with so little
input from neighbors. I find myself wondering if these types of quick decisions would be made
in other parts of town.
2) We spent years and had several community input meetings when the City was preparing to
reconstruct 70th Street. That was a process that included stakeholders and actively sought input
from those affected by the work being contemplated. Why did we not follow the same course
with the Fred?
3) It is my impression that the City had been working on the schedule preferred by Hillcrest
Developers. I am happy to read that both Hillcrest and the City have emphatically denied that
the Fred and the Pentagon project are coordinated or connected. This is good news! It allows the
City to take its time in deciding what to do with our city golf courses.
4) I understand that Edina says it is losing money on its golf courses. I also understand that the
Fred does not lose money. Why are we considering closing a course that covers its cost and is a
treasured asset of the community?
5) Clearly, Braemar is the site that is bleeding money. Why not consider changes to make that
course profitable? It seems to me that we can consider each golf course separately..
6) Your logic appears to be: Close the profitable course and pump money into the money losing
course. What's next? If the Braemar Ice Arena started to lose money, would we decide to close
some of our outdoor rinks?
The message is: slow down and commit to involve the residents and stakeholders that would be
affected. Let's have a process that our citizens can support.
Respectfully Submitted,
Thomas Sullivan
4512 Hibiscus Ave
Edina, Mn 55435
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From: PAUL A HOKENESS [mai Ito: phokenessCamsn.com]
Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2014 2:42 PM ; Mary Brindle Comcast);
70: Edina Mail; n
�wensonann1@gmail.com; ionihPnettl2Carnmcast.net
josh sprague(aedinarealty- com
Subject: Closing of the Fred Richards Golf Course
Honorable Mayor and members of the Edina City Council,
It was with sadness that I read the articles in the a paper about the closing of this d she has told me for years that sheerful
little course. My wife and I are recently retired
would consider taking up the game of golf aftan averar she gred. I've always e golfer at best and thhnk that this
t this would
be a good activity for us to play together. I'm g
little course is perfect for my wife and I, as she has just had a knee replaced and I'll be
looking at the same operation in a year or so basketball,
brellax ng less intensive l, and ys
are behind me) and that's why I need a new knee and andamore
sport to be involved in. My neighbor ao her
sand the nurse was mai taineded this course �the t rf
r years
and they just loved it. I've been there
and greens were wonderful, and the staff were very friendly and helpful.
I was a Parks and Recreation professional and the other m West St Paul Though rounds fell
d oversaw the operation of two
different par -3 courses, one in Burnsvilleoffers. The First Tee program attracted
off over the years I saw a huge influx in young g
many new young golfers and I understand the youth program at Fred Richards is very
popular. I would assume that the bonds fo1e that
areretired
sure the golfers wouldn't no
reason you can't afford to keep the course
object to higher green fees and raising the season ticket prices. Perhaps attracting more
leagues and increasing the advertising. cleshsakd that i the couthere are a lot rse isple that closedi don't even
would still
know the course exists. One of the rounds and athletic fields
ou well know park land,
aren't cheap to op
remain publicoperate yand most of them collect no revenue.
na to keep the course open and
I think it would be in the best interest for be City
a11 look at golf ou ses d fferently
treat it as a wonderful asset that you can proud of
than a financial person would. To me they are a "basic set of services" thatado the oyed
by many people and a good way to preserve open green space. I'm hoping y
ou ght
thing and keep the course open and 1fyou do I'll l also have aeone of the first lot of friends that would d also fo low me
season pass and sign up for lessons.
to the first tee!
Sincerely,
Paul Hokeness, retired Parks and Recreation Director
612-207-2085
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From: Brant Haenel[ma ilto:bhaenel(.amodernclimate. com]
Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2014 1:05 PM
To: Edina Mail; Jonib nnettl2 &COM ast.net; Mary Brindle (Comcast); ioshspragueCaedinarealty.com;
swensonannlCanmail com
Subject: If this is about finances...
Hello Mayor Hovland and City Council Members,
Thank you for taking the time to consider answers and options beyond those given in the city staff's
recommendations on Braemar golf operations; specifically the closing of the Fred Richards golf
course.
Before the scheduled March 18th meeting and vote, I'm wondering if we yet have a complete answer
that addresses root of the question? Specifically, if we need to take financial action regarding
Edina's golf offering, including the future of the Fred Richards, where are the details in those
answers that include the estimated capital costs to transform the Fred Richards into something else,
along with the assoicated maintenance costs?
After options have been explored, perhaps the Fred Richards needs to close. But until the city
accounts for at least an estimated range for these budgets, I don't know or understand how we can
collectively arrive at a finanically prudent decision. Without this detail, there's too much fuel for
speculation surrounding ulterior motives and hidden agendas with the options on the table.
Before making a decision on the future of the the Fred Richards golf course, can you please work to
uncover and weigh the complete financial picture?
And thank you in advance for your consideration.
Brant Haenel
4520 Sedum Lane, Edina
Brant Haenel
Chief Strategy Officer
call me:
612-787-3380 (office)
612-867-7035 (mobile)
email me: bhaenel(&-modernclimate.com
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From: fizwill@iuno.com [mailto:fizwill@luno.com]
Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2014 12:33 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Fred Richards Executive Golf Course
Dear Mayor Hovland:
I have no doubt that you have the best interests of the Edina community at heart as you perform your
duties as a city council member. I'm also sure you understand that some proposals before the council
have the potential for being more contentious than others.
The prospect of closing FREC is certainly a tough pill to swallow for many, but the bigger issue is the
feeling of having no voice in the matter due to the extremely short timeframe for public comment.
According to the staff report/recommendation, the staff has been working on the proposal since
Spring/Summer 2013, yet public comment was first solicited with the January 30 informational meeting
at Braemar when the draft proposal was presented. The final presentation to the Park Board was less
than two weeks later, and the same proposal was presented to the City Council on March 4, just three
weeks later. Statements made during the March 4 by Member Sprague and Member Bennett illustrate
their belief that rumors that reach the community constitute community involvement. They cited emails
received last year from residents in reaction to these rumors as proof that there has been opportunity
for the community to voice their opinion. I strongly disagree that communications instigated by rumors
constitute involvement in the decision-making process.
If a decision on the future of FREC is made at the upcoming March 18 council meeting, there will have
been less than seven weeks of community involvement start to finish. Instead of deciding the fate of
FREC at this meeting, the council needs to vote to postpone the decision until the end of 2014 to ensure
that the entire community, rather than just city staff and elected officials, have reached a consensus.
Respectfully,
Bill Hanson
7457 West Shore Drive
Edina, MN 55435
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From: fizwill@iuno.com [mailto:fizwill@iuno.com]
Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2014 5:26 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Fw: Fred Richards Executive Golf Course - $1,500,000 cash accrual
Hello Mayor Hovland:
Since sending the attached I have taken a closer look at the proforma scenario for closing the Fred and
have found that there is a Miscellaneous expense that is for roughly the same amount as the cash
accrual I was wondering about. It looks like the two entries essentially cancel each other out. I'm sure
there is an accounting reason for the way in which these items were presented as expenses and
accruals. Please ignore my original question, and I apologize for my confusion.
Respectfully,
Bill Hanson
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From: fizwill@iuno.com [mailto:fizwill@iuno.com]
Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2014 1:11 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Fred Richards Executive Golf Course - $1,500,000 cash accrual
Hello Mayor Hovland:
This is a follow up on our discussion this morning during the Walk with the Mayor event at Southdale
with respect to the Golf Course Operations Study.
I have been reviewing the eight proforma scenarios detailed in the study. In the Non -GAAP cash
reconciliation section there is an item called "Other Accruals", which in all scenarios adds to the cash
balance. The "Other Accruals" entry on the Without Fred Richards scenario is unique. The entry for 2014
is roughly $1,500,000 greater than that of any of the other scenarios. I'm wondering if you would be
able to provide insight into what items would be included in this entry. I'm having difficulty
understanding how closing Fred Richards Executive Golf Course suddenly infuses this much cash into the
golf enterprise. An interesting observation is that if it makes sense to eliminate this accrual from the
analysis, the golf enterprise cash position actually improves if the Fred remains open.
Thank you.
Respectfully,
Bill Hanson
7457 West Shore Drive
Edina, MN 55435
Home email: fizwill@iuno.com
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From: F Hanson [mailto•felhanson@gmail com]
Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2014 3:18 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Petition Signers Voice Anger and Frustration
Dear Mayor Hovland:
During the last few evenings, I and a few others have been taking a petition around to our neighbors that
asks the city council to delay the Fred Richards vote and to create a master plan. So far, I have
personally collected nearly 150 signatures. I would say I have a 95% signing rate.
I would like to share with you that while I talk with my neighbors, they have taken the opportunity to tell
me how they are feeling about the Fred Richards Golf course issue. They are glad that someone is
listening to their opinion. A number of them feel their emails are ignored and certainly that any views they
voice are brushed off as unimportant.
Many petition signers are angry and frustrated, but these emotions are directed especially at the
PROCESS of the closing as much as at city council members. Some of my neighbors feel that this issue
has been rushed to the point where they have become distrustful; they have a profound feeling of the city
not listening to what they have to say.
For myself and for many petition signers, it is true to say that we are not wedded to the idea of having a
golf course (and my house backs up onto it). What is important to us is to feel that the process should be
seen to be fair and thoughtful; that if a contingent of residents is strongly questioning the process, the city
council members would see this as a time to be responsive, not rigid.
To live up to the community's expectations of impartiality, and to demonstrate flexibility on this
contentious topic, I respectfully request that you vote to delay the decision on closing the Fred Richards
Golf Course and use 2014 as a year for planning. Regardless of the future outcome, you will find that
many more residents, including me, will completely support the city's decision and will value the fact that
city council members respected due process and remained open minded on this issue.
Sincerely,
Felicity Hanson
7457 West Shore Drive
Edina 55435
952 848-4910
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From: Jean Holm [mailto:iholm921(@gmail com]
Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2014 7:44 AM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: re: Save The Fred!
Mayor Hovland,
I am asking you and Edina City Council Members to Save Fred Richards Golf Course.
I ask you to vote to move forward with the Braemar driving range, but please delay a decision on closing
Fred Richards Golf Course until after the 2014 golf season. Save the Fred presented supporting financial
arguments proving there is NO REASON for the council to rush this decision before further consideration
of the issue is undertaken. This golf course has served this community for over 40 years and deserves
more than a month of consideration.
Thank you for listening to the residents of Edina.
Jean Holm
20 Year resident of Edina
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From: Hanson, Bill [mailto•Bill Hanson(Mentair.com]
Sent: Friday, March 14, 2014 12:48 PM
To: Ann Kattreh; Scott Neal; Eric Roggeman
Cc: Edina Mail; Home (fizwill(djuno.com)
Subject: Fred Richards Executive Golf Course
Hello:
I'm hoping one of you can help me with this question regarding the Golf Course Operations
Study.
I have been reviewing the eight proforma scenarios detailed in the study. In the Non -GAAP cash
reconciliation section there is an item called "Other Accruals", which in all scenarios adds to the
cash balance. The "Other Accruals" entry on the Without Fred Richards sheet for 2014 is in the
neighborhood of $1,500,000 greater than any of the other sheets. I'm wondering if you would be
able to provide a quick explanation of what items would be included in this entry. I'm having
difficulty understanding how closing the golf course would suddenly infuse this much cash.
Thank you.
Respectfully,
Bill Hanson
7457 West Shore Drive
Edina, MN 55435
Home email: fizwillkjuno.com
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From: Paul Jensen[mailto•piensen3132C�earthlink.net]
Sent: Friday, March 14, 2014 12:36 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: The fate of Fred Richardson golf course
To: James Hovland, Mayor, Joni Bennett, Mary Brindle, Josh Sprague, and Swenson,
I wonder why the decision has to be made so quickly on the fate of the Fred Richardson Golf
Course? I have been to meetings in which this was discussed by our city officers and then
citizens could make their comments. I'm sure you will agree that there is great resistance by
most of the citizens toward closing this fine golf course. Long lines of people waited to speak
their piece in support of saving the golf course.
The golf course has great value beyond just being a golf course. It's part of the neighborhood for
those who live in south Edina. People enjoy living in Edina because it's a quality community that
has opportunities for all people to enjoy and improve themselves. We have fine Adult Education
and sports programs. Isn't golf part of what makes Edina a great community to live in? Does not
two good golf courses, an excellent long course and nice modest size course, speak of the quality
of this community?
The golf course increases property values, not just people who live on the golf course but for all
of Edina. People like to brag about living in a Edina because of the opportunities in this
community and this is reflected in all Edina property values.
Anything else that would be put on that land will require expenditure for maintenance. A park?
We have a nice park close -by called Arneson Acres, I believe. We've not done much to publicize
this park and it seems that only a few people use it. Why haven't we advertised it and made it
nicer with picnic areas and other things to make this park more appealing? It would seem
redundant to make another park where the golf course was. Sports fields? We have good practice
and playing fields. There is much land below Edina High School for sports fields. Sports are
wonderful for youth and even young adults, but I don't think it's wise to bring that amount of
noise into a busy neighborhood, especially when we have plenty of other sport fields in our city.
There hasn't been much discussion about what the golf course site would be used for if the
course is abandoned. Is there some hidden ideas about this? I believe that we citizens Edina
should know what the plans are for this land if not for the golf course. I live on the golf course
and I would certainly I like to know what that land would be used for. I believe the land is being
used in the best possible way now. The golf course is attractive and it provides a great buffer
between the commercial area on the south side of the golf course and those of us who live on the
north side.
I wrote the following letter assured a short while ago. I believe that some of those ideas are still
correct and more importantly. It would be a great mistake to close the golf course if we have not
decided what the land would be used for. I live on the golf course and I would certainly like to
know what plans would be for that land. I believe the land is being used in the best way possible
now. The golf course is attractive and it provides a great buffer between the commercial area on
the south side of the golf course and those of us who live on the north side.
I wrote the following letter a short while ago. I believe that some of those ideas are still correct
the more importantly I believe that it would be a great mistake to close the golf course.
Sincerely yours,
Paul Jensen
To: James Hovland, Mayor, Joni Bennett, Mary Brindle, Josh Sprague, and Swenson,
I am a homeowner and I live beside the Fred Richardson Golf Course. My address is 7445 West
Shore Dr. I have lived here and enjoyed the golf course for 47 years. I played golf on that course
through the years until I became handicapped four years ago. Even though I am handicapped I
still enjoy the view of the golf course!
enin, but I was
I was at the Town Hall meeting related
the
most of hat was sa daAs Ivundegstand the problem
outside the meeting room so I could not hear
is economic—too few golfers are playing the course to make it profitable. These following your
home suggestions might be considered.
Edina has are two short golf courses, Braemar and Fred Richardson Golf Courses. For economic
reasons I would suggest the following:
tter
se
1) Close the Braemar Short Course and make Fred holf coursson e is aan even nd moreuinterest g
it
is now. The reason for this is that the Fred Richardsong
than the Braemar course. The Fred Richardson course acourse ces his outstanding.erty The Braemar e of those o
live close to it. The aesthetic value of theFred Richardson or aesthetic values.
short golf course does not enhance any y property
2) Close the small clubhouse that serves the Braemar Golf Course and Braemar Driving Range.
This would eliminate personnel and their sal ries. ThBraemar e Coin -Self -Golf Driving Range Ball Dispensers would be
stay in the
same place and be managed from the main clubhouse
placed at the driving range so that it would not even be necessary to go into the Braemar
clubhouse use the driving range.
3) After the Fred Richardson Golf Course has been enhanced as being the Best Short Course
Around, it should be advertised in the Braemar Clubhouse, as well as the Edina Golf Course has never been advertised well It was NewsHofer
and other places. The Fred Richardson
even advertised from the Braemar Golf Course Clubhouse or from these other sources.
area
4) The Fred Richardson Clubhouse is in a bad location. Going t thres theiindust al the course.entering through what seems to be other building parking
The clubhouse should be located where it would be north side of thech easier to lrect golf people nuse tThere woul d be
suggest moving or building a new clubhouse on
easy access from 701h St. going south on W. Shore ide easement on Edina property Dr. or Wooddale, then east on at this site. .
on Kellogg for dust a very short distance. There's
This accesses to this large tract of land that the
believe isownned ho eand ayards ba k upintained by tot. There is
inaccessible to anybody right now except property th
room for a new clubhouse and parking on this site.. ttuc could
Idbbe very liver httractive. Easy sign
is was not considered n 70
and Sedum would identify the way to the new club
because commercial traffic in a residentilarea was s Wooddale Aveed undesirable. nuet would be the
the driving to
and from a golf course would not create alot of extra traffic
most accessible and it could be improved and widen some prior to the opening of a new
clubhouse.
5) From a marketing standpoint, I would recommend
having
Getting r Richardson ed and leading
have group golf lessons starting with young kids. g park board league
competition between leagues and other schools could help increase
as the morning use at the golf
course. I can't speak about this but this nice golf course
I ask that you consider some of these suggestions seriously.
Thank you for your consideration, Paul Jensen.
N
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From: jiellen341@aol.com [mailto:iiellen341@aol.com]
Sent: Friday, March 14, 2014 12:18 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Fred Richards Executive Golf Course
Please explain the push to close Fred Richards.
No clear and concise reasons for closing this course were presented at the March 4th meeting.
This course is played by residents who do not enjoy the hassle at Braemar which has many leagues and
hard to get tee times.
Why does Parks/Recreation not even list the course as a community resource?
Edina needs the course, please keep it open.
Joe Jellen, 5221 Minnehaha Blvd
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From: Perry, Erik [mailto•Erik PerryCabtennantco.com]
Sent: Friday, March 14, 2014 11:16 AM
To: ioshsprague(aedinarealty.com; Edina Mail
Subject: Fred Richards Golf Course
Josh,
I live at 4916 Poppy Lane in Edina, and wanted to express a thought and a concern
about the golf course issue facing the city. I am not an avid golfer but do appreciate the green
space near my house. Having heard about the opportunity to make this into a park is very
appealing to my family (we have two boys seven and four), but the comments at the last city
council meeting made me wonder:
1) If one of the major drivers of the course consolidation is cost savings (future capital, annual
maintenance etc.) and the fund for building these types of investments is very low, how will the
city be able to afford the construction of the new park area? Are there funds from the county,
state, etc. that can be tapped to help? Are there ways to charge a CAM fee to the new business
park developers? This was very unclear to me.
2) If the Fred does get closed, I would love to volunteer my time to help determine the next best
use for the area as we plan to raise our children in Edina and be here for many years to
come. Every house sold in our neighborhood seems to be a new young family, and it would be
awesome to have input into the future.
Thanks for your consideration in this matter.
Erik Perry_[ Fabrication Value Stream Manager
T: +1.763.540.1506....l M +1.612.267.1685 1 F:...+1.763.540.15531 www.tennantco.com
Tennant Company I Creating..a cleaner, safer, healthier world.
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From: Patty [ma ilto:pasta ng@comcast.net]
Sent: Friday, March 14, 2014 9:04 AM
To: ionibennettl2@comcast.net; swensonannl@gmail.com; Edina Mail
Subject: Vote No to Closing Fred Richards
Hello,
Please vote no on closing Fred Richards golf course on Tuesday, March 18th. The only logical choice is to
have a master plan(by a qualified planner) for golf in Edina and the dollars associated with that plan
made public before making any decision to close a historical amentity utilized by so many. Amenities
don't have the burden of being profit generating so why are we forcing Fred Richards golf course to be
under the microscope and not other amenities in Edina. Fred Richards executive course had around
30,000 more rounds than the executive course at Braemar- that should mean somthing. The reason is
the relaxed atmosphere and flat landscape.
Please listen to the residents. Vote no to closing Fred Richards.
Respectfully,
Patty Stang
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From: Barbara Hoganson[mailto:barbara.hoganson(cbhardeninc com]
Sent: Friday, March 14, 2014 8:43 AM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: RE: save the fred - get final plan done first
Dear City Council,
Thanks for giving a 2 week extension to vote on what to do with Fred Richards. However, the
same points raised in previous email below are the same concerns that will exist in two
weeks. Two weeks still is not enough time. Again, what is the rush in voting on Fred Richards
until the Braemar plan is finalized? I hear that we will lose "$1 million dollars" if we don't close
Fred Richards now. Not that anyone wants to waste money, but $1 million over the population
in Edina would work out to be about $21 per resident in Edina. This is not outrageous to require
such a sense of urgency that it must be closed right now. I would guess there are other expenses
that could be trimmed back from the city budget to absorb this. There always are ways in any
budget to cut costs. Or charge higher fees to residents that use Fred Richards, and see if any
push back to use the course if it will require higher fees to keep it open.
Edina residents have invested in Fred Richards for a lot of years. It is an asset of the
community. If we keep it open for this next season, or until the Master Plan is finalized, to get
all the details needed, then we can make the best solution for residents. A solution based upon
people that live in Edina.
I would guess there are other amenities in Edina that don't carry their weight based on
usage. But if Edina residents don't mind paying them because they want to have them available,
then that should be ok. Are there any Edina residents saying, we must close Fred Richards it is
not worthwhile to keep open?
I appreciate consultants recommendations but these people don't live here and there are other
factors as mentioned below that should be taken into account. The residents that live here should
have the greatest say in whether to keep Fred Richards open. I don't know what the best solution
is right now but more time is needed before that decision should be made. All I know is I would
sure like to have my questions below answered before any decision to close Fred Richards is
made. And no one from the City is able to answer my first three questions which I think are the
most critical ones before a decision like this should be made.
Thank you again for delaying your decision to vote, or VOTE NO to closing Fred Richards at
this time.
Barbara Hoganson
5724 Duncan Lane
Edina MN 55436
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From: David Mooty [mailto:David @continentaIgolf.com]
Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2014 5:22 PM
To: Edina Mail; Joni Bennett; Mary Brindle (Comcast); joshspraue@edinarealty.net;
swensonannl@gmail.com
Cc: John Stang; Derek Johnson; Colleen Wolfe; akellar234@comcast.net
Subject: Additional thoughts on Fred Richards golf course
Mayor Hovland, City Council members and City Manager Scott Neal,
After the meeting with City staff on Friday that I attended by telephone, I would briefly like to give you
my thoughts on the future of Fred Richards golf course.
I believe that the best course of action for Edina is to postpone the decision on the future of Fred
Richards until the 2014 golf season is completed. There was discussion by Edina staff that the decision to
close Fred Richards now was necessary because of the proposed Braemar driving range project.
However, since the funding of the driving range project will be done internally, and any savings from the
closing of Fred Richards will not occur until 2015 under the current proposal, there seems to be no
logical connection between the driving range project and Fred Richards. No other compelling reason was
given by staff on the need to decide now to close Fred Richards in 2015.
There are several advantages to the City waiting until the end of the 2014 golf season to decide on the
future of Fred Richards.
First, the additional time would allow Andrea Kellar, the PGA and the other supporters of Fred Richards
to prove what additional marketing and programming can do to the profitability of the golf course.
Second, there are significant differences of opinion regarding the financial projections that have been
prepared by staff. More time would allow for a thorough discussion of these projections to ensure the
final recommendations upon which they are based are the best available.
Third, and foremost, more time can be spent on the creation of a Master Plan for golf in Edina. Millions
of dollars have been spent on Fred Richards, and many millions more are being discussed to improve the
golf experience at Braemar. It seems quite reasonable to allow the input of Edina residents and golf
experts in this process and to spend an adequate amount of time doing so. Two months is not an
adequate amount of time. An additional eight months would be sufficient to ensure that all reasonable
options are explored and that Edina ends up with the best golf product for the most economical cost.
If at the end of eight months of additional study the decision is to close Fred Richards, there would be
little opposition. On the other hand, if the current proposal is adopted, there will be a large contingent
of Edina residents who believe that the City has failed both in process and conclusion.
Given the lack of any downside to an extension of time, I respectfully ask that the City Council vote to
defer any decision on the future of Fred Richard for eight months and approve the continued study of
golf in Edina to ensure it reaches the best decision possible.
Thank you.
David Mooty
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From: Doug Nelson[mailto:dnelsonCabtheminikandaclub com]
Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2014 12:22 PM
To: Edina Mail; joshsprague(aedinarealty. corn; swensonannl@gmail.com; Mary Brindle (Comcast);
jonibennettl2(komcast net
Subject: Fred Richards
Mr Mayor and City Council Members
I am sure you have heard from plenty of Edina residents over the past weeks concerning the
possible closing of the Fred Richards Golf Course. I would like to give you my thoughts based
on my knowledge of the golf business. I have been working at golf courses since the early 1970's
and am currently employed at The Minikanda Club as the Pro Emeritus and am a resident of
Edina. My wife and I both play at Braemar and Fred Richards. She plays the Clunie course in a
Ladies group and always comes home minus a few golf balls. When we play Fred Richards she
feels much more comfortable because of the way it is set up. Golf in my opinion is meant to be
played while walking and this is why many Seniors are attracted to Fred Richards. The senior
population is growing and it is important to introduce the game to as many juniors as possible.
The Fred Richards Course is set up perfectly for that. I feel it is important to not lose the Fred
Richards Golf Course.
It seems like the City is in a panic to find money to make repairs to a broken down facility
(Braemar). Their financing solution happens to be giving up a wonderful Golf Course (Fred
Richards) that satisfies the needs of many Edina residents. In my opinion this is the easy way
out. According to the City Manager Braemar has been losing money for the past 10 years. Who
has been doing the Budgets and setting the expectations to the General Manager all those years.
The way I see it shame on those who have let it go this far! It is not the Edina Residents fault but
they are the ones who will be waiting in line to get on the other courses in the future because of
this possible short sighted decision.
Another Park?? Does Edina really need another Park? We have a great Park System the way it is
but they aren't over crowded every day. I live one block from Pamela Park and it is only busy
when they have an outside event or tournament on the Softball Fields. Otherwise I would call it
empty most of the time.
Is this the Edina way of doing things? Far from it. If we need Ice we build a new facility.
Baseball ... we have some of the best fields to be found in the State. Swimming ... we have
developed a great outdoor facility. Edina resident pride themselves on having great facilities and
great programs. It is one part of what makes Edina a great place to live. Taking away Fred
Richards is the opposite.
Yes the Braemar facility needs some work to get it back to a great facility. But it needs a Master
Plan so that something doesn't get lost on the way.
The Range has needed work for years. Residents have been hitting off of dirt or worn out range
mats for a number of years. This isn't something that just happened this past year. I wonder if the
grounds department seeded the hitting area last fall so Edina Residents would have some grass to
hit off this spring and or summer?? Yes I think the Range needs to be enlarged and lengthened
because the ball is going further and safety has to be of a concern. Edina has the only Public
Range in the area and could be a money maker for the Facility.
The Par 29 is fun but not an easy "short course". There are many forced carries to the greens and
many hills to walk up. Making it into a Par 3 course will not eliminate those things.
The Clunie 9 has 2 holes that are virtually unplayable. (Holes 6 and 8) It also has a couple of
steep hills that make it difficult for the Seniors and Juniors to walk.
The Championship Course also needs some work to keep Guests coming from outside of Edina
to play. Many fine Public Facilities have been built that makes this business very competitive.
But I believe with proper conditioning and management Braemar could recover from the hole
that it is now in. (When was it last rated in the top 75 in the Country?) There was talk about
bringing in an outside company to train the employees on how to treat the guests. Isn't that the
job of the General Manager when he or she hires the employees?
At the Council Meeting I heard about how great the Junior Program was having 600 to 700
participants. In looking at the Edina Programs that just came out I believe that is maximum. We
should never be turning kids away from these programs. I believe these numbers could and
should be twice as big as they currently are ...... but not if we close Fred Richards and close the
Executive course for a season or two. Junior golfers are our future residents.
There were also comments made that ALL of the tee times were not being used. If all of the
times were used no one would ever come out again. Play would be too slow, the course
maintenance team would not have a chance to maintain it and the experience would keep golfers
from coming back. Of course not all the tee times are being used!! Is the ice rink busy all day
long? Are the baseball fields busy all day long?
The MAIN thing is HOW WAS THE EXPERIENCE. And give your STAFF a budget that is
attainable and ask them to work within those guidelines.
Fred Richards doesn't have to be closed to accomplish these goals. Fred Richards is
DIFFERENT than the rest of the BRAEMAR Facilities. It is friendly, easy to walk, and not as
challenging as the other courses. The City of Edina should work at making all Facilities first
class. It is what the Residents (and voters) would want. Edina is a great place to live. I would like
to see this decision delayed so that future discussions could be held.
Thank you for your time.
Doug Nelson
6117 Oaklawn Ave
Edina, MN
Pro Emeritus
The Minikanda Club
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From: Dale Stier [ma iIto: dstierlOCa>gmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2014 10:38 AM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Edina Golf Courses
Dear Mayor Hovland,
I have been following the story of the proposed closure of the Fred Richardson Golf Course in
your city. I am a former golf course owner and former President of the Mn Golf Course Owners
Assn. Currently, I am consulting in the golf and recreation business.
In conversation with representatives from the "Save the Fred" organization, they mentioned that
the option of using a golf management company to operate Edina's golf courses was dismissed
without consideration. I am currently working with Billy Casper Golf. They manage 160 golf
courses nationwide and have successfully turned around several failing municipal golf facilities
for the cities of Chicago, Cincinnati, and Philadelphia among others.
I am puzzled by this apparent prejudice, and it leaves me wondering about the future of not only
the Fred Richardson course, but the Braemar Facility as well.
I would encourage you to take a minute to visit the website at billycaspergolf.com. You owe it to
yourselves and your constituents to consider all the options available to you in operating your
golf facilities.
Please contact me if I can be of any assistance.
Dale Stier
Change Course Consulting
612-201-0116
dstierl0@gmail.com
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From: Kirsten Llanes [mailto:Ilan kirs@gmail.com]
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2014 7:46 PM
To: Edina Mail
Cc: jonibennettl2@comcast.net; Mary Brindle (Comcast); ioshsprague@edinarealty.com;
swensonannl@gmail.com
Subject: fred richards golf course
To All Whom it Concerns:
I'm a resident of Edina in the South Cornelia neighborhood and am concerned about the timeline
involved with discerning the use of the Fred Richards Golf Course.
I have lived here since Halloween 2012 and am incredibly glad my husband and I decided to buy
property in this neighborhood. I looked all over Edina with my Edina Realty agents, taking tours of
dozens of houses in every quadrant, and by far found these quiet streets to be the most valuable; I very
much believe the neighborhood is as such because it is near enough but not too near to Southdale and
other mercantile areas.
If a decision is made about the golf course within the next few days, I think it would be a missed
opportunity to see how many people use the golf course over this upcoming summer. I walk by that
area often and love the paved bike path that was installed near Kellogg Ave. In particular, I remember
the enthusiasm from many prospective buyers I witnessed at a open house on Trillium Lane held by Josh
Sprague the summer of 2012 just before the construction of the bike path and Lake Edina area was
improved.
Please take some time to consider your decision about the best use of this golf course for Edina, and
consider approving an ad hoc team of concerned residents to develop alternative proposals for this
space. Together, I am sure we can all come up with the best solution for our city.
Sincerely,
Kirsten Llanes
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From: hunzelman(.acomcast.net [mailto:hunzelman(&comcast.net]
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2014 7:08 AM
To: jonibennett(&comcast.net
Cc: Mary Brindle (Comcast); loshspragueC�edinareality.com; swensonannlCa)gmail.com; Edina Mail
Subject: 3/4/14 Edina City Council Meeting
Ms. Bennett,
I am copying all the council members on this email because this is information that all of
you need to be more aware of as you continue your tenure on the council as it is on TV
for all to view. You may want to take a look at the 3/4 meeting, I have watched it
several times. If you have time take a look at the Planning Commission Meeting 2/28,
where the developer of Pentagon Park turned around and pointed at the camera saying,
I am not trying to change Fred Richards Golf Course, I have nothing to do with
Fred Richards Golf Course!!!
As I was attending the Edina High School Baseball meeting last evening, I was able to
talk to many voters about "The Fred". Almost all of them have been following the story
in the news papers and many watched the meeting on March 4th. There were many
questions and comments but one comment was repeated many times and one question
so I told the group I would email the council for comment.
The comment: We saw the group debate for almost an hour about how to save the
trees (there was even discussion about the species of trees) on the lots that 2 houses
were going to be torn down for 3 new houses. The developer was even required to
show detailed drawings of house plans and when the placement of the driveways was
missing there was another 30 minute discussion about driveway placement to assist
the home owner to back out with a better view of traffic. The same council barely asked
"The Fred" group questions about their financial analysis and presentations. The only
thing that seemed to be discussed was the environmental issues that the group wanted
evaluated more throughly before moving forward. The city manager was very quick to
let the council know this was an option to look at but ultimately the mayor and council
can go forward without any further review. This made all of you relieved(watch
yourselves on the tapes). While your are watching, look at your reactions when the tax
issues were discussed. You saved the trees on 3 lots thank you!!! What is really
planned for the golf course everybody wants to know?
The question: Ms. Bennett, you ran across the stage with a letter from someone that
had written you the summer of 2013 about the rumors that Fred Richards was going to
be closed, what was your response to that letter? And, are you for the environment or
are you against it?
I am going to be talking to voters this weekend at the Jr. Gold State Tournament at
Braemar Ice Arena. I would appreciate any comments you have so your comments can
shared with the voters. Everybody I talked to wants to be more informed about what is
going on, not everybody is for keeping the golf coarse open and were upfront with their
comments knowing I live on Fred Richards Golf Course. They all agreed taking more
time would be wise on your part.
Renee Hunzelman
7461 West Shore Drive
952-270-7305
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From: Tim Zellmer[mailto:Tim.Zellmer@genmills.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2014 11:31 PM
To: Edina Mail
Subject: Edina City Council
Mr Mayor: we support keeping Fred Richards a city golf course. Please vote to keep it. We Live on
Casco, FYI . Thank you, Tim Zellmer
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From: Dean Mathews Sr. [mailto:deansr marathonfoods.net]
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2014 8:02 PM
To: Edina Mail
Cc: Dean Mathews; Kelly McCoy; Timothy Nasby; bramsav@bernatellos.com; Sue; John Stang
Subject: Fred Richards golf course
Reading the March 6 issue of the Sun Current has led me to correspond as follows:
1)EQB advises city that an EAW is not required; Minnesota rules require an EAW if a golf course is
involved....????
2)staff has a master plan... No, we cannot afford a master plan.... Fred loses money..No, Fred makes
money.
3)MMD-6 to PUD, and how does AUAR come into play?... There is so much obfuscation here that how
does your typical constituent know "Who's on First"
4)Hillcrest and Lankenoff quotes clearly demonstrate impatience and disregard for anything That gets
in the way of "their plan"... They were asked to leave a planning meeting?!!!
5) So Edina really doesn't have a golf plan , and Hillcrest really doesn't have a development plan, so
let's close a profitable enterprise -the Fred.????
There are sufficient questions that need to be addressed.. I encourage that you all will vote to do so in
the upcoming session.
Office at 5100 Edina Industrial Blvd ... work and live here!
Thanks,
Dean
(952) 835-5151 Office
(612) 819-4073 Cell
Sent from my iPad
To: Park Board
From: Ann Kattreh
Parks & Recreation Director
Date: April 8, 2014
Subject: Veteran's Memorial Committee, January 17, 2014
Action Requested:
No Action is Necessary.
Information / Background:
oe:�
777 y
• l�CORPORf`�wP
1888
Agenda Item #: VII.C.
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information x❑
Attached are the approved minutes from the Veteran's Memorial Committee meeting held on January 17,
2014.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
N
MINUTES
OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
VETERANS MEMORIAL COMMITTEE
HELD AT CITY HALL
JANUARY 17, 2014
7:30 AM
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Olson called the meeting to order at 7:30 a.m.
Il. ROLLCALL
Answering roll call were Members Benson, Cardarelle (arrived at 7:36 a.m.), Elliott,
Kojetin, Olson, Reed, and Schwartz.
Staff in attendance: Kristin Aarsvold, Edina Park and Recreation Department
Supervisor, and Sculptor John Shoop
Others in attendance: None.
III. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
The agenda was approved as presented.
IV. ADOPTION OF CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of the December 20, 2014 Veterans Memorial Committee Meeting
Minutes.
Motion by Member Kojetin and seconded by Member Reed to approve the
meeting minutes from the December 20, 2014 meeting as presented.
Ayes: Benson, Elliott, Kojetin, Olson, Reed, and Schwartz. Motion carried.
V. INTRODUCTION AND DISCUSSION ON SCULPTOR
Member Reed introduced the Committee to sculptor John Shoop who works out of
American Bronze Casting in Osceola Wisconsin. He noted that he, Member Benson
and Mr. Shoop visited the site earlier today prior to the meeting.
John Shoop introduced himself to the Committee and explained that he and his father
began the business over 40 years ago and specialize in bronze sculptor. He discussed
the process they use.
Member Cardarelle arrived.
Mr. Shoop continued to discuss the process used to create the sculptures. He noted
that they are hundreds of municipal projects that his family's business has been
involved in and provided photographs of previously completed work.
Chairman Olson questioned if there is any service included throughout the life of the
piece, such as waxing.
I
Mr. Shoop stated that is not usually included but stated that there are some sculptures
that the shop will follow up on for maintenance purposes and estimated those services
around $300 per year. He stated that most folks prefer the sculpture to age naturally.
He advised that his business does work with Cold Springs Granite, which is one of the
companies that discovered the black granite. He stated that in his experience they are
a great company and are a manufacturer of the granite and recommended that
company to be used for the granite base. He confirmed that all of the items of this size
are provided with mounting hardware and they work with the manufacturer of the
granite to assist with the drilling of the holes to ensure that the mountings will fit
together. He also provided a sketch of an eagle that his father had created as an
example for the Committee.
Mrs. Aarsvold confirmed that smaller versions of the sculpture could be created to
provide to donors of a specific level.
Mr. Shoop stated that if the Committee wanted to go with this vision for the smaller
eagles, the original design could be ready in 30 days, with a mold completed within
about two weeks following that, and finished copies about four weeks after that. He
estimated about ten weeks for the entire process. He noted that a portion of the
manufacturing costs would be donated but he would need a commitment on at least
50. He noted that the timeline for the large eagle were included in his email and
distributed that information to the Committee.
Member Reed stated that the Committee was hoping to have the large eagle
completed by Veteran's Day 2014. He stated that this is a busy time for Mr. Shoop's
business, so if the Committee would like to move forward with that timeline, the
decision should be made soon to ensure that deadline could be reached. He stated
that the payment would be split into three sections, noting that $14,000 would be
needed to begin the process. He noted that even though the quote was completed
quite a while ago, Mr. Shoop is willing to move forward with that quote as material and
production costs have not increased. He noted that Mr. Shoop is also willing to
transport the large eagle to the site and oversee the installation.
Mrs. Aarsvold confirmed that the quoted cost for the eagle would be $46,500.
Member Schwartz stated that perhaps Memorial Day would be a better deadline, for
weather and timing purposes.
Chairman Olson agreed that Veteran's Day would be aggressive.
Member Kojetin believed that the Committee should focus on Veteran's Day, with the
understanding that the event could take place on Memorial Day if needed.
Mr. Shoop stated that he can work around the financial amounts and timelines, as long
as there is a solid commitment. He then left the room to allow the Committee to further
discuss the issue.
Chairman Olson explained the current balance, which was slightly reduced for
insurance that was needed to contract with Member Elliott. He explained that the
contracting cost for Member Elliott's service was paid through the City.
Member Schwartz questioned if the Rotary would be willing to provide some funds
upfront if desired.
Member Cardarelle believed that would be an option.
Member Schwartz stated that he really likes the sculpture and his attitude as far as
being flexible with the payment timeline.
Motion by Member Schwartz and seconded by Member Kojetin to contract with
John Shoop and American Bronze Casting from Osceola, Wisconsin to create
the bronze eagle sculpture.
Ayes: Benson, Cardarelle, Elliott, Kojetin, Olson, Reed, and Schwartz. Motion carried.
Mrs. Aarsvold stated that there may be an opportunity to include an article in the Sun
Current that states the Committee has hired an artist and provide input on that. She
noted that providing information to the Park Board would be another opportunity to get
the word out to the public.
John Shoop reentered the meeting and confirmed that he was a veteran, as well as his
grandfather.
Member Reed stated that Committee has decided to select Mr. Shoop for the bronze
eagle sculpture.
Mr. Shoop thanked the Committee and stated that they are very excited to make
something like this that actually has meaning behind it.
Vl. DESIGN DISCUSSION
Member Elliott stated that he is continuing to make progress and provided an update
on a recent meeting with Bachman's regarding the landscaping. He stated that the
landscaping plan is being developed and plants will then be selected that could work
within the memorial that are readily available. He explained that hearty heirloom plants
will be chosen that color at different times of the year to provide a better experience.
He referenced the Watershed District requirements and noted that he has been
working with the District to design the project to meet their requirements. He hoped to
avoid having to complete a wetland delineation during this process, as that would have
an additional cost associated. He hoped to accommodate the rain water garden on the
I
south side of the trail. He advised that the Garden Committee stated that they do not
have experience with establishment of rain gardens and recommended that the service
to contracted out when bids are obtained.
Member Schwartz stated that the public have expressed concern with tree removal in
the park and believed that anything regarding landscaping should include a statement
that the area will be improved and tress will not be removed.
Member Elliott displayed the plans, which show elevations and the 100 year floodplain,
and discussed the plans noting that he would want to ensure that the memorial is
above the 100 year floodplain level. He also noted that the condition of the existing
trail is very poor. He continued to discuss the plans for the site. He noted that these
are draft plans and if the Committee approves, he would then move forward to the Park
Board and the Watershed District.
Member Cardarelle stated that the Committee should not force themselves into a box
with the language regarding tree removal and should instead state that any trees
removed will be replaced.
Member Elliott continued to discuss the design plans and the plans for the rain garden
area. He noted that he will provide alternate options for material in some places, such
as granite and pavers, in order to provide alternate price points.
Member Reed suggested investigating By the Yard, which is a Minnesota company
that uses recycled materials to construct benches.
VII. PARK BOARD MINUTES
This item will be discussed in February.
Vlll. NEXT STEPS
A. FUNDRAISING
This item will be discussed in February.
B. MARKETING
This item will be discussed in February.
X. ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 9:05 a.m.