HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-05-12 Park Board PacketAGENDA
Regular Meeting of the Edina Park Board
Tuesday, May 12, 2009, 7:00 P.M.
Edina City Hall Council Chambers
4801 West 50th Street
PARK BOARD MEETING PROCEDURES
During "Public Hearings, " the Chair will ask for public comment after City staff members
make their presentations. If you wish to speak on the topic, you are welcome to do so as long as
your comments are relevant to the discussion. To ensure fairness to all speakers and to allow
the efficient conduct of a public hearing, speakers must observe the following guidelines:
• Individuals must limit their presentations to three minutes or less. The Chair will modify
presentation times, as deemed necessary.
• Try not to repeat remarks or points of view made by prior speakers and limit comments to
the matter under consideration.
• In order to maintain a comfortable environment for all those in attendance, the use of
signs, clapping, cheering or booing or any other form of verbal or nonverbal
communication is not allowed.
PARK BOARD AGENDA
I. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
* Tuesday, April 14, 2009, Park Board Minutes.
II. NEW BUSINESS
A. Edina Garden Council Presentation.
B. * YEA Corp proposal for Chowen Park.
C. * Community Gardens.
D. * Pamela Park Scoreboards and Batting Cage.
E. * Pamela Park Task Force Recommendations.
III. OLD BUSINESS
A. * Revisions to Relationship Document.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENTS
During "Public Comments, " the Chair will ask to hear from those in attendance who
would like to speak about something not on the agenda. Individuals must limit their
presentations to three minutes or less and cannot speak to an issue for which a public
hearing was previously held and closed or a matter scheduled for a future hearing.
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Individuals should not expect the Park Board to respond to their comments. Instead, the
Park Board might direct the matter to staff for consideration at a future meeting.
V. UPDATES FROM STAFF
VI. PARK BOARD COMMENTS
VII. 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 else, please call 952-927-8861 72 hours in advance of the meeting.
* These are agenda items that require or request Park Board action.
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Memo
To: Edina Park Board
From: John Keprios, Direct
Edina Park and Recrea jibDepartment
Date: May 6, 2009
Re: TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2009, PARK BOARD MEETING STAFF REPORT.
Enclosed you should find the following items:
1. Tuesday, April 14, 2009, Park Board Minutes.
2. Tuesday, May 12, 2009, Park Board Agenda.
3. April 24th Letter, Map & Drawing to Resident Neighbors of Chowen Park.
4. Email from Wendy Kessler.
5. Email from Jim and Michele Cox.
6. Email from Joanne Holtmeier.
7. Email from Karin Perry.
8. Email from Larry Fahnoe.
9. Email from Paul Juhl.
10. Email from Rose Gebo.
11. Email from Michael Bartus.
12. Letter from Mary Maxine Johnson.
13. Letter from Jean Lettner.
14. Email from Paul and Tekla Knutson.
15. Email from Conor Marrinan
16. April 30th Letter and Map to Resident Neighbors of Pamela Park.
17. Email from Luanne Kuna.
18. Email from James Arnold.
19. Letter from Dana Arnold.
20. Email from Karen Amundson.
21. Email from Janice Borgwardt.
22. Petition Flyer from Fritzie Borgwardt.
23. Letter from Carol Markham -Cousins.
24. Minutes from April 21 Pamela Park Task Force Meeting.
25. Community Gardens Study Proposal from Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc.
26. Bloomington Community Gardens Information.
27. Current Relationship Document Language.
28. Recommended Criteria for Exclusion.
29. Edina School District Policy 404 (Employment Background Checks).
30. Letter from Andy Vigil.
31. My Response Letter to Andy Vigil.
The following is the monthly Staff Report concerning each item on the agenda with the
exception of Approval of the Minutes, Public Comment and Park Board Comment.
PARK BOARD MEETING IN THE
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
EDINA CITY HALL
4801 WEST 50TH STREET
The Tuesday, May 12, 2009, Park Board meeting will be at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council
Chambers at Edina City Hall. If you are unable to attend, please call either Office Coordinator,
Janet Canton, at 952-826-0435 or me at 952-826-0430.
II. NEW BUSINESS:
A. Edina Garden Council Presentation
The Edina Garden Council is a non-profit, educational volunteer run organization
formed in 1953 and has provided residents of Edina a variety of wonderful
opportunities and services for many years. The Edina Garden Council holds an annual
plant sale at Arneson Acres Park, offer garden tours, invite the public to participate in
the annual Tri -City Flower Show, they partner with other organizations in conservation
projects and offer educational sessions open to the public. The Edina Garden Council
has also raised money through their plant sales, membership dues and other fund raising
to donate the gazebo in 1995 and also two fountains, along with a variety of other
contributions to Arneson Acres Park.
Therefore, I have asked that the Edina Garden Council give the Park Board a brief
presentation about who is the Edina Garden Council and share with us all of the
wonderful services they provide the residents of Edina. I am very pleased that the
Garden Council delightfully accepted the offer and will be giving the Park Board a brief
Power Point presentation. President of the Edina Garden Council Diane Bomsta will
give some opening remarks followed by a presentation given by Edina Garden Council
Member Deb Armstrong.
No formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
B. YEA Corps Proposal/Petition for Chowen Park Community Garden/Youth
Project
At the April 14, 2009 Park Board meeting, the Park Board received a petition from
Mary Helen Franze, Executive Director of YEA Corps, requesting a 12' by 16' plot of
land at Chowen Park to be used by this organization to create a summer organic garden.
After hearing presentations by various teen members of YEA Corps and Mary Helen
Franze, the Park Board voted unanimously to notify the neighborhood around Chowen
Park to solicit their input and invite them to attend the May 12 Park Board meeting.
The Park Board accepted staff's recommendation to mail notices to those who live
within 500 feet of the park; however, I later received notice from a resident about 1,000
feet from the park that is strongly opposed to the concept. Therefore, I chose to extend
the notification area to 1,000 feet from the park. Approximately 330 households
received my letter, map and a drawing of the proposed garden submitted by Mary Helen
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Franze. Enclosed are ten written responses to that mailing. As you will notice, not
everyone supports the concept; however, the overwhelming majority is in favor.
I asked Mary Helen Franze about some concerns I have about the garden and its
maintenance. Mary Helen tells me that the water source for the garden will come from
the neighbor who lives immediately next to the garden. If that neighbor has a change of
heart, Mary Helen tells me that she has another neighbor near by who borders the park
that will be a back up for the water supply. Regarding pesticides, Mary Helen assures
me that this will be an organic garden free of pesticides. Regarding refuse, Mary Helen
assures me that all waste products from plantings will be removed from site by
volunteers and properly disposed of on private property.
I have concern that the proposal is to secure the garden with welded steel fencing. This
hardened fencing may be a dangerous hazard to children running after softballs and
baseballs while playing on the ball field immediately adjacent to the garden. Mary
Helen stated that she has the same concern and is considering a more safety sensitive
fencing material.
I have also asked Mary Helen to provide insurance for the structure and its use on City
property that includes the City of Edina as an additional insured. She is not certain that
she can get that coverage at a reasonable price and I do not have the results of her
findings at the time of this Staff Report.
Since the April Park Board meeting, Mary Helen has also requested that the Edina Park
and Recreation Department donate pesticide free soils and deliver it to the garden. The
Edina Park and Recreation Department has to purchase soils every year for our own
park uses. In other words, we do not have piles of additional planting soils available to
the general public. The soil alone would cost approximately $350.00, not including
manpower and equipment to disperse the soil.
As the Park Board debates this issue, it is important to know that we currently do not
have a policy or ordinance that restricts park land from this requested use. An approval
of this request would set precedence; however, these types of requests are typically
handled on a case by case basis. I am not suggesting that we need either a policy or
amendment to the City Code in this case.
This particular request should be viewed as privatization of public property (park land)
for the purpose of educating youth about how to grow vegetables in an organic garden
and learn something about entrepreneurism. This is not a community garden which are
plots of park land available for lease on a first come first served basis for the purpose of
growing their own vegetables and flowers. I also view this as different from having a
resident requesting privatization of public property to create their own private garden
for their own benefit. In that case, I would not support the request. Instead, in my
view, that request should be directed toward creation of community gardens available
for lease on a first come first served basis and placed in a park location pre -determined
by the City Council based on the Park Board's recommendation.
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Having said all that, I recommend that the Park Board recommend to the City Council
that the YEA Corps request be approved for a one-year trial basis with the following
conditions:
1. The site must be well kept, clean and safe for all park users at all times.
2. YEA Corps must provide liability insurance that includes the City of Edina as an
Additional insured.
3. After one growing season, YEA Corps must make another formal request to be
granted use of the site for the following year.
4. If denied the right to continue to use the space for a garden, YEA Corps must
restore the site to its original grass condition at their own expense.
I further recommend that the YEA Corps be held responsible for all of their own
expenses. In other words, they must pay for and provide their own soils and materials
needed to construct the garden.
Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
C. Community Gardens
At the April 14, 2009, Park Board meeting, the Park Board requested staff to study park
locations that would be best suitable to use as community gardens. I asked that Park
Board members to please assist staff by visiting their assigned parks and determine
which ones, if any, would be suitable for a community garden.
Some of the key components needed for a successful community gardens are:
1. Access to water.
2. Adequate parking.
3. Easy ADA compliant access from parking lot to the garden plots.
4. Adequate soils.
5. Open space or an area currently not used for passive or active park uses.
6. Place in a public area that deters vandals and/or thieves.
7. Resources to develop and maintain a quality garden site.
8. Resources and system to administer and manage equal access to the garden plots.
9. An area that is acceptable to those who live closest to the proposed site.
In my view based on experience with other proposed changes/additions to parks, the
most challenging of the above criteria is number nine. Many years ago after looking at
a number of potential community garden sites, I suggested that the Grove Street
property next to Melody Lake Park be considered as a community garden. The
neighbors in the immediate neighborhood strongly opposed the concept which resulted
in blocking that effort.
Since the April 14, 2009, Park Board meeting, I have received two separate requests
from residents who wish to start a community garden in a park near their home. One
request is for Pamela Park and another for York Park. In her April 26, 2009, letter to
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me (copy enclosed), Carol Markham -Cousins requests the development of a community
garden at York Park next to the creek. I also recently received a request from Janice
Borgwardt to develop a community garden at Pamela Park. I initially responded by
telling her to petition the neighborhood to gauge the level of support for the concept.
As you will notice in my May 1, 2009, email to Janice I suggested that a better way to
handle this issue is for the City to hire a consultant to help us determine the best sites to
consider for a community garden.
While discussing the upcoming Park Board agenda with Chairman Todd Fronek, he
suggested that we should consider hiring a consultant to help us determine the best
site(s) for a community garden. Therefore, I contacted Greg Ingraham from Hoisington
Koegler Group, Inc. (same firm that studied our off -leash dog area issue) and learned
that he and his staff have extensive experience and passion in the area of community
gardens. Mr. Ingraham submitted a proposal to study the issue. A copy of the proposal
is included in this mailing. Unfortunately, I do not have $14,790.00 in the Park and
Recreation Department operating budget to cover that expense. The Park Board could
request that the City Council authorize this unbudgeted expense out of contingencies;
however, we are currently trying to find ways to cut costs due to a shortfall in revenues.
I have to believe that given enough time, we as staff with the help of volunteers can
come up with a site or two for the Park Board's consideration. I do not recommend
spending $14,790.00 for a study.
Another concern I have about this request is that community gardens was never
mentioned as part of the 2006 Needs Assessment Survey process. There were
numerous focus groups formed as part of that extensive process plus interviews with
each individual Council member, professional Park and Recreation staff, Park Board,
special interest groups and the community at large, and yet community gardens was
never once mentioned. Even so, the desire for community gardens could be promoted
and no doubt well used. I question the level of priority for this request compared to all
the other park improvements and maintenance needs that will compete for limited
dollars.
I have included a copy of information on Bloomington's Community Gardens, which
by the way was created by Greg Ingraham when he was the Parks and Recreation
Division Manager for the City of Bloomington.
I do not support the request to create a community garden at York Park as requested by
Carol Markham -Cousins. There is no easy access to water, no off-street parking, no
ADA access to the proposed site and it is too small of an area in my view to create a
community garden open to all residents of Edina to lease a plot. The site may very well
work for a few neighbors in the immediate neighborhood; however, this is not in my
view an appropriate location for a city-wide community gardens location.
The Pamela Park location requested by Janice Borgwardt might be a realistic option;
however, we currently need additional parking spaces and we do not have funding and
resources currently available to start a community garden this year. Even if we were to
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divert resources and funding to this initiative, we should notify all neighbors within
1,000 feet of the Park and the Park Board should conduct a Public Input Meeting and
this issue must go to the City Council for approval. By the time the process is
complete, the planting/growing season will be over. I also suspect that the neighbors
who live immediately next to the park will strongly oppose this proposal.
If the Park Board now considers this a priority, I recommend a couple options. One
option would be to offer park land to a non-profit organization of community garden
enthusiasts (who must be Edina residents) to administer and pay for the development
and upkeep of a community garden site. That would be similar to the Minneapolis Park
Board's method. That would also validate that there is enough community wide interest
to join forces and resources to develop such a program.
Another option would be to ask staff to make this a priority and study locations and
make a proposal to the Park Board for the development of one site to begin with. We
will have to request funding for the 2010 budget to cover expenses. More research
needs to be done to know exactly how much funding needs to be requested.
Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
D. Pamela Park Scoreboards and Batting Cage
The Edina Girls Fast Pitch Softball Association is requesting that the Park Board and
City Council accept their donation to purchase and install electronic scoreboards on all
three softball fields at Pamela Park. The scoreboards would be permanently installed in
the locations shown on the enclosed map.
The Edina Girls Fast Pitch Softball Association previously requested the addition of
another batting cage with a pitching tunnel, which was previously approved by the Park
Board to be funded under the 2009 Capital Improvement Plan. The additional batting
cage and pitching tunnel would be placed on the south side of the existing batting cage
as shown on the enclosed map. The additional batting cage would not interfere with the
option to expand the existing park shelter building in the future.
To follow due process, I mailed the enclosed letter and map to the 75 households that
are within 500 feet of the softball fields and encouraged them to provide me with their
input in writing and/or attend the May 12 Park Board meeting. At the time of this Staff
Report, I have received three written responses which are enclosed. They all three
object to the installation of permanent scoreboards. I have not received any objections
to placement of an additional batting cage with a pitching tunnel. One complaint argues
that not enough notice was given to respond to the letter. Mrs. Amundson claims that
they never received my letter and map; however, their address was included on the
mailing list and the postal service did not return that particular envelope to us as
undeliverable.
If the Park Board feels that more residents should have been notified and more time
should have been given to respond to my letter, I strongly recommend that we delay this
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action and do another mailing to an area that you feel is more appropriate in this case. I
chose only a 500 foot radius from the fields themselves because the scoreboards and
batting cage do not affect the general public's use of the park; however, the scoreboards
do affect the look of the park and could be considered a nuisance for those who live
closest to the park.
If the Park Board feels comfortable with the notification process, I recommend that the
Park Board approve the installation of permanent scoreboards and the additional batting
cage/pitching tunnel in the locations as shown on the enclosed map.
Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
E. Pamela Park Task Force Recommendations
The Pamela Park Task Force has now completed its work. With the assistance of
architects from Anderson Johnson and Associates and ATS&R, the Task Force was able
to identify all of the proposed park improvements that should be considered in our short
and long range planning for Pamela Park. Enclosed is a copy of the minutes from our
second and final meeting of the Task Force.
The master plan map is currently being updated by Anderson Johnson consultants and I
should have the final copy to present to the Park Board at the May 12 meeting. In short,
the park improvements shown on the master plan map include:
• South parking lot expansion (25 additional stalls).
• West parking lot expansion (additional 37 stalls).
• North parking lot expansion by warming house (15 additional stalls).
• Parking lot driveway improvements (new curbing).
• Relocate hockey rink and lights 30' to the south and 30' to the west.
• Batting cage/pitching tunnel expansion.
• Installation of three electronic scoreboards.
• Expand park shelter building.
• Convert existing lighted athletic field to synthetic artificial turf.
• Add new grass athletic field west of lighted field.
• Add a paved trail to access playground area from south parking lot.
It is my intention to show the Park Board a power point presentation of the different
warming house expansion options as well as an updated map showing all of the
improvements.
It is my recommendation that the next step be for the Park Board to first discuss the
various park improvements recommended by the Task Force and request staff to
provide whatever additional information is needed to move forward with a master plan
to propose to the neighborhood and community at large. Once the Park Board is
comfortable with the master plan, I recommend that we place the map and proposed
improvements (including dates and approximate costs per improvement) on our web
site for the community to access. I suggest that we then do a mailing to all households
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who live within 1,000 of Pamela Park and put a press release in the Sun Newspaper to
request citizen input in writing. The next step in the process would be to conduct a
formal Public Input Meeting at the August, September or October Park Board meeting.
This will give the community ample time to become familiarized with the proposed
improvements, ask questions of staff and provide their input.
Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
III. OLD BUSINESS:
A. Revisions to Relationship Document
In 2006, the Park Board and City Council approved the recommendations of the Edina
Youth Sports Task Force which included the "Relationship Document" which defines
the City of Edina's recommendations and mandates of Edina youth athletic associations
who desire priority access to the City's athletic facilities. One of those mandates
includes mandatory background checks and lists very explicit criteria for exclusion. A
copy of the current language is enclosed (see document titled "CURRENT
RELATIONSHIP DOCUMENT LANGUAGE").
Under the current policy, an applicant that has committed any of the crimes listed may
never volunteer again in Edina. The National Recreation and Park Association
recommendations a time limit on certain lesser crimes, such as misdemeanors (7 years)
and alcohol related crimes (5 years). At the Wednesday, December 10, 2009 athletic
association Presidents meeting, there was a consensus to adopt the National Recreation
and Park Association recommendations for criteria for exclusion when doing the
mandatory background checks. The new replacement language is shown on the
enclosed document titled "RECOMMENDED CRITERIA FOR EXCLUSION."
At the March 10, 2009 Park Board meeting, it was decided that this agenda item be
tabled until staff could compare this proposal to the School District's policy for
purposes of consistency. I received a copy of the School District's current policy (copy
enclosed) which is labeled "Policy 404" that addresses `Employment Background
Checks." I also discussed the policy with the head of their Human Resources
Department and learned that the School District currently does not have a list of
exclusionary criteria. I asked what they use for criteria when background checks show
results of criminal record. She stated that currently they use their best judgment on a
case by case basis.
If the Park Board wishes to be consistent with School District policy, we can simply
eliminate the current criteria for exclusion and let associations decide on their own on a
case by case basis.
I recommend that the Park Board adopt the Recommended Criteria for Exclusion as it
appears on the enclosed document, which is consistent with the recommendations of
the National Recreation and Park Association.
Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENTS
During 'Public Comments, " the Chair will ask to hear from those in attendance who
would like to speak about something not on the agenda. Individuals must limit their
presentations to three minutes or less and cannot speak to an issue for which a public
hearing was previously held and closed or a matter scheduled for a future hearing.
Individuals should not expect the Park Board to respond to their comments. Instead, the
Park Board might direct the matter to staff for consideration at a future meeting.
V. UPDATES FROM STAFF
Staff will be giving a brief verbal updates on upcoming events.
VI. PARK BOARD COMMENTS
This is the opportunity for Park Board members to provide comments on park and
recreation related matters not on the regular agenda.
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Minutes of the
Edina Park Board
April 14, 2009
Edina City Hall, Council Chambers
MEMBERS PRESENT: Joseph Hulbert, Jeff Sorem, Ray O'Connell, Todd Fronek, Ben
Pobuda, Randy Meyer, Jennifer Kenney, Bill Lough, Keeya Steel, Dan Peterson
MEMBERS ABSENT: Rob Presthus
STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Janet Canton, Ed MacHolda, John Valliere
I. APPROVAL OF THE MARCH 10, 2009 PARK BOARD MINUTES
Dan Peterson MOVED TO APPROVE THE MARCH 10, 2009 PARK BOARD
MINUTES. Jeff Sorem SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED.
II. NEW BUSINESS
A. Election of Officers — John Keprios opened up the floor for nominations for Chair of
the Park Board. Joseph Hulbert MOVED TO NOMINATE TODD FRONEK. Ray
O'Connell SECONDED THE MOTION. Randy Meyer MOVED TO CLOSE
NOMINATIONS. Bill Lough SECONDED THE MOTION. Mr. Keprios announced
that Todd Fronek has been voted as Chair of the Park Board.
John Keprios opened the floor for Vice Chair of the Park Board. Todd Fronek
MOVED TO NOMINATE JEFF SOREM. Ray O'Connell SECONDED THE
MOTION. Joseph Hulbert MOVED TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS. Dan Peterson
SECONDED THE MOTION. Mr. Keprios announced that Jeff Sorem has been
voted as the Vice -Chair of the Park Board.
B. 2010 MGA State Junior Championship at Braemar Golf Course— John Valliere,
Braemar Golf Course Manager, asked the Park Board to approve his request to host
the MGA State Junior Championship Golf event in 2010 and waive greens fees. Mr.
Valliere gave a presentation to the Park Board.
Mr. Hulbert asked when the event would take place to which Mr. Valliere replied it
would probably be August 3rd and 4"
Mr. Fronek asked how many golfers are expected for this event to which Mr. Valliere
replied there would be 160 golfers.
Mr. Fronek asked Mr. Valliere if it's common practice for the golf course to waive
fees. Mr. Valliere explained yes, it is common especially when it involves young
people. He added that this is something that other courses do as well.
Dan Peterson MOVED TO APPROVE THE REQUEST FOR BRAEMAR GOLF
COURSE TO HOST THE 2010 MGA STATE JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF
EVENT AND WAIVE GREEN FEES. Randy Meyer SECONDED THE MOTION.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
C. YEA Corp Proposal for Chowen Park — Mary Helen Franze, Founder and Executive
Director of YEA Corp., (Young Enterprising Agents) informed the Park Board that
they are very excited about the opportunity to possibly have a community garden at
Chowen Park. She pointed out that the youth went around to all of the neighbors with
a petition to sign. Ms. Franze explained that YEA Corp is offering a really
wonderful entrepreneurial experience in addition to the learning from the garden. She
stated that the youth would have an opportunity to sell their produce at the Mill City
Farmer's Market where YEA has a stall. Therefore, they would be putting together a
business plan in addition to the garden plan. The following youth gave their
testimony:
Wyatt Lauer, 5913 Chowen Ave. So., stated that they received 100% enthusiastic
support from all of the neighbors they spoke to. Becca Dauth, 5720 Chowen Ave.
So., commented that this is going to be a great opportunity to learn organic gardening,
financial skills and community building. JP Franze, 5717 Chowen Ave. So.,
informed the Park Board that one of the elderly neighbors he spoke with was most
concerned about the care and protection of the garden but he assured him that all of us
will lead these efforts and he was pleased to sign the petition. Arin Arpinar, 5637
Chowen Ave. So., indicated that they discovered that the neighbor who lives across
the street from Chowen Park is a master gardener and has offered to help them as an
expert on gardening. Ella Klase Anderson, 5604 Chowen Ave. So., indicated that one
of the neighbors was so generous and excited that they gave them a check for
materials to help them succeed.
Ms.Franze explained in a little more detail about YEA Corp.
Mr. Peterson asked if they are planning on putting some sort of a fence because of the
deer and rabbits. Ms. Franze replied they are definitely in the process of imagining
how they are going to retain the garden around all kinds of things.
Mr. Meyer asked if there is a written policy on repurposing parklands and how to
treat this. He noted that he thinks it's a fabulous idea but he questions if they are
going to be overwhelmed by everyone who has a corner plot thinking they can plant
their garden there. He stated that he thinks they need to structure this in a way that
makes sense for the community overall. Mr. Meyer commented that by
understanding the history of this maybe it will help figure out how best to move
forward. Mr. Keprios responded that there is no policy that tells them what they
should and shouldn't do in this case. He added that he thinks they are writing policy
as they go on a case by case basis.
Mr. Fronek pointed out that Mr. Keprios has proposed that we send notices out to the
neighborhood to request their input and place the item on the next Park Board
meeting. Mr. Fronek asked Ms. Franze if that will affect her growing season to which
she replied typically nothing is started until after Mother's Day so it shouldn't be a
problem.
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Mr. Fronek asked Mr. Keprios to give more of an overview on what he knows about
community gardens. Mr. Keprios pointed out this is not a community garden but it is
for a special interest group with a wonderful cause. He explained that by definition a
community garden is a parcel of land that is publicly owned which then becomes
privatized by turning it into various plots that residents can lease to grow their own
private vegetable or flower garden. He commented that it's common in several
communities that are fully developed, however we have looked into it in the past
were not successful at identifying a location that was acceptable to neighboring
residents.
Mr. Keprios indicated that some of the concerns he had were restroom facilities for
the kids but it seems like most of them live within one block of the park. Secondly he
is concerned about the water but that has been taken care of through a donation from
a neighbor so that means public facilities will not be used. Mr. Keprios stated that
one item that has not been discussed is should there be rent for this and that would be
the Park Board's decision. He indicated that his recommendation would be to notify
the neighborhood to at least get a feel for what's the level of support. He commented
that it seems like Ms. Franze already has some support especially from the folks who
are closest to the park and would be the most affected by it. Mr. Keprios noted that
his recommendation would be to put the details of the plan together on what they
think the residents will want to know and place it on the agenda for next month's
meeting and invite people to come in and give their views before the Park Board
makes their ruling.
Mr. O'Connell stated that because of a pretty tight timeline he would like to see them
get started before the next Park Board meeting. He noted that they could start with
the contingency that they send out the mailing. However, with 27 signatures so far in
the favor of it he has a good feeling it will be approved.
Mr. Sorem stated that he can certainly appreciate Mr. O'Connell's comments on the
time sensitivity but he would feel more comfortable with staff notifying the residents
and letting them have a chance to come before the Park Board and therefore would be
in favor of waiting.
Mr. Peterson noted that he would be very happy to go ahead tonight and do it.
Ms. Steel noted Ms. Franze mentioned selling the produce possibly at the Mill City
Farmers Market and asked if that is something the students decide or is there a
concrete plan. Ms. Franze replied that the students are in the decision making process
of that. She commented they are interested in selling but they are also exploring the
opportunity of having something to offer the neighbors. Ms. Steel asked where they
see the profits going. Ms. Franze replied that every project has a payback, like a tax
if you will, where they teach a variety of ways to contribute to such as a charity. She
added that there is a 5% minimum back to the organization to grow more projects,
however it's very nominal in terms of profit and nobody pockets any money.
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Mr. Lough indicated that he thinks their May 12th Park Board meeting would be
timely for a planting. Therefore to go through the process of the mailing and to allow
Ms. Franze to supplement the written material he would be in favor of approving the
mailing now and readdress the final issue on May 12th
Ms. Kenney stated that she agrees with Mr. Lough; she thinks the timing is such that
it allows them to postpone the decision until the May 12" meeting and still not
interfere with the short Minnesota growing season.
Mr. Meyer stated that he also thinks it makes sense to notify the neighbors so that
they aren't making changes without having them understand what's going on and to
give them a chance to provide their input. He added that he thinks they need to put
some structure around so that if other groups would like to do a similar project it will
be in a consistent manner that works.
Mr. Hulbert stated that he thinks it would be a good idea to notify all of the
neighbors.
Mr. Fronek stated that he agrees and thinks this sounds like a great idea and
partnership as well as it sounds like everyone is in support of it. Mr. Fronek asked
Mr. Keprios to talk a little bit about the use of this particular land and to also talk a
little bit about the process, he's not sure if this is something that needs to be approved
by the City Council. Mr. Keprios replied that they may not need to bring it to the
City Council and that if the Park Board feels strongly they can charge forward with
the proposed plan. Secondly, if the Park Board decides they would like to go ahead
and notify the neighbors just to be sure we are on the same page and that way they
may need to make some adjustments after next month's Park Board meeting.
Mr. Fronek MOVED TO ACCEPT STAFF RECOMMENDATION WHICH IS TO
MAIL NOTICES TO THE 109 HOUSEHOLDS THAT ARE WITHIN 500 FEET OF
THE PARK AND REQUEST THEIR INPUT IN WRITING AND INFORM THEM
THAT THE ITEM WILL BE ON THE MAY 12TH PARK BOARD AGENDA. Jeff
Sorem SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mr. Keprios noted that he will send out the notices and it will be on the May 12th Park
Board Agenda.
III. OLD BUSINESS
A. Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail Update — Jonathan Vlamin_g, Three Rivers Park
District — Mr. Vlaming, Planning Manager for Three Rivers Park District, gave the
Park Board a power point presentation on the results from the previous open houses,
the process used to date, and the upcoming steps in the process.
Mr. O'Connell asked if the money is in hand to which Mr. Vlaming replied no, not
for the entire trail. He explained that the Park District does an annual capital
improvement program and at this point they have money in hand for the one segment
in western Edina as well as there is money to do the trail improvement immediately
rd
east of York. Mr. Vlaming noted that for the rest of the segments as soon as they
know the route then they can put together a multi year CIP. He pointed out that this
is a big project that will probably take several years to complete.
Jed Hepworth, 5509 Valley Lane, indicated that he lives across the creek from
Heights Park and is a long time Edina resident. He noted that he would like to
personally invite each Park Board member to walk a segment of Nine Mile Creek this
Saturday. He indicated that Saturday is Earth Day and there are going to be a lot of
people picking up garbage and cleaning up. He stated that it's really easy to talk
about doing things in the abstract but when you walk along the creek and you see the
impact it really is a different vision.
Jim Hildebrand, 6808 Brook Drive, informed the Park Board that he recently came
across a study from September 2007 titled "City of Edina Comprehensive Bicycle
Transportation Plan" and it's approximately 115 pages. He noted that it's very well
done and was put together by the City of Edina Independent Consultant, City
Council, Bike Edina Task Force, the City of Edina Engineer and Planning
Departments. The study addressed approving local and regional destination safety
routes for all including sizing of the trail and where it would be busy and not busy.
He noted that bicycling for community health provided recommended routes and
detailed analysis that included detailed recommendations for planning, operating and
maintenance. Mr. Hildebrand pointed out that Mr. Vlaming recommended that the
city appoint a task force composed of citizens to evaluate the routes that they've
suggested. Therefore, what concerns him is that Mr. Vlaming is asking the City
Council to assign a task force to select from routes that the "TRPD" has already
chosen. Therefore he is eliminating many possibilities identified in the City of Edina
Comprehensive Bicycle Transportation Plan. Mr. Hildebrand stated that justification
in the selection process to the City of Edina and its citizens so taking that into account
he thinks it's fair to ask that we look at any criteria for additional trails that hadn't
been added by our own Edina Task Force and that these criteria should be made
public after discussion and then put the plan that's already been put together by the
City of Edina as a base and then see if there are any additional trails that should be
added using the criteria just mentioned. Following that determination he guesses they
would then toss it up to the City Council the pluses and minuses of each trail and let
them decide. He feels we should use the study that the City of Edina has done and
paid for and print it up in great detail with lots of illustrations of possible routes and
go from there in their evaluation process rather than taking something that they are
being given that's sort of predetermined, narrowed it down to one or two choices now
and then being asked to make a choice from that.
Pete McCarthy, 6801 Brook Drive, indicated that one of the things he saw in Mr.
Vlaming's last presentation is there was a suggestion of one or two people per
segment to be on the task force and now he sees that it's listed as just one. He stated
that he really thinks that the people should have a voice and that there really should
be two people per segment instead of one. Mr. McCarthy stated that another thing is
this seems to be driven by the Three Rivers Park District to get this bike path through
Edina to connect to everything and not even knowing that there was a plan already
given by the City of Edina. He asked is there going to be a non -biased assessment
done by the City of Edina that's not given by the Three Rivers Park District. Lastly,
he noted that he feels it's a shame that we can't connect this bike path because he
thinks everyone is in favor of the bike path, it's just a matter of where it's going to be
located.
Mike Wolff, 5300 West 70`h St., noted that he just wanted to share a couple of
statistics that he would like the Park Board to think about before making a
recommendation to the City Council about where the trail should go. Mr. Wolff
pointed out if the trail runs through a wetland or along 9 Mile Creek it will emit
approximately 2.4 million pounds of co2 into the air and it will continue to be co2
emitter. He commented that it will be detrimental to the environment for as long as
it's there. Mr. Wolff s second statistic if from the Bike Advocate that indicates that a
person is 2.6 times more likely to suffer injury or death on a designated trail (such as
the one being discussed) versus a trail that's on a road.
Charles Madden, 6524 Creek Drive, pointed out that he just read an article in the
newspaper were the Minnesota Pollution Control agency stated that 234 cities (mostly
in the metro area) have been ordered to control storm water run-off to help reduce
pollution. He stated that most of the trail in Edina runs through wetlands and these
are sponges for rain water and snow runoff and asks what would be stopping that.
Paul Ratelle, 5521 Valley Lane, commented that Mr. Vlaming's presentation stated
that there will be paths going over Highway 62 & Highway 100. He noted that
during the two previous open houses he had the opportunity to ask the Three Rivers
Park District whether it was Mr. Vlaming or any of his associates there were involved
in these meetings and what arrangements if any did they foresee in order to create a
bridge across both of these freeways. He noted that they all acknowledged that this is
a very time consuming process and something that has to be coordinated with other
governmental bodies. Mr. Ratelle stated that they will have no assurance that they
will ever get the approval to put a bike path across either of these freeways and that if
they get the approvals it's going to be very costly. Mr. Ratelle stated that he thinks
the Park Board needs to take into consideration as they deliberate through this process
and find out how far they really are in deciding whether this is a reality because he
thinks there are a number of preliminary steps to take a look at in evaluating where
this is going and how feasible it is at the end of the day. Mr. Ratelle pointed out that
the Three Rivers Park District has no control over the cost of putting these bridges
over these freeways and that they will even get the approvals necessary to accomplish
these. He noted that he thinks the Three Rivers District Park owes the City of Edina
an explanation about that process and the likelihood that that will get approved.
Jane Weiss, 5704 Duncan Lane, indicated that she lives in the Londonderry
townhouse complex and noted that she doesn't believe at any point anyone in the
complex along the creek was ever notified that there was going to be something like
this happening. She asked when the letter regarding the segment representatives will
be sent out and who will it be going to. She also asked if it would be possible to get a
list of addresses of the houses along each segment. Mr. Vlaming replied that the
regional plan was to contact everybody who is immediately adjacent for any given
segment. He apologized to Ms. Weiss if she didn't receive a letter and explained that
3
sometimes with townhomes, because they use a mapping program, only one letter is
sent to a contact for townhome associations and not every home. He stated that in
this case they would have to make it a point of pulling up the addresses for each of
the townhomes.
IV. UPDATES FROM STAFF
A. Pamela Park Task Force — Mr. Keprios gave an update to the Park Board on what is
currently going on with the Pamela Park Task Force. He noted that their next
meeting will be held on Monday, April 20th at City Hall and stated that he would like
it to be known that anyone in the Pamela Park neighborhood who wants to serve on
this task force are still welcome to.
Mr. Meyer asked if there is a timeline for these projects. Mr. Keprios replied they
really don't have a deadline to meet for these projects. He explained that once they
get the whole package together they would like to bring it to the Park Board and from
there send notices to the neighborhood and inform the community at large to see if
they embrace the plan that the task force has come up.
B. Abbey's Hope Event at Edina Aquatic Center - Mr. MacHolda informed the Park
Board that the City of Edina and the Edina Aquatic Center are going to be hosting the
"Abbey's Hope Event" on Friday, June 5th from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. It is being coined
the "Spring into Summer Safety Kick Off'. He noted that they are working closely
with Abigail Taylor's parents, Scott and Katie Taylor and the Abbey Hope
Foundation. He explained that hopefully this is going to be an annual event and noted
that they are going to limit the event to 1,500 guests and that people will need to
register on-line at Abbey's Hope.org. He noted that it will cost $5.00 per person or
$20.00 per family.
C. Community Gardens - Mr. Peterson indicated that he would like staff to give some
thought to community gardens. Mr. Keprios replied that it is something they've
looked at before. He indicated that they previously looked at a number of parks and
property owned by the city and came up with a piece of land on the Moore Property
right off Grove Street. He indicated that they sent out notices but it didn't fly because
the residents in the immediate neighborhood strongly opposed the concept near their
homes. Mr. Keprios noted that each Park Board member is assigned a few parks to
visit on occasion. Mr. Keprios indicated that he would prefer that each Park Board
member visit their assigned parks and come back to the next meeting with
recommendations as to whether or not a community gardens would be appropriate in
one or more of their assigned parks.
Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that he has been sitting on a State Wide Health
Initiative Committee for the last several months to which they have just finished up
their work. He explained that the cities of Edina, Bloomington and Richfield
collectively applied for a grant through this initiative, part of which would provide
funding to pursue the start of a farmers market here in Edina. One site they are
currently thinking about is Centennial Lakes Park for a farmers market. He added
that maybe some grant money might help them even look for other sites to have a
7
community garden. Mr. Keprios stressed again that he is open to having community
gardens and would really like to hear input from the Park Board as to where they
think it would work and where it would be well received by the neighborhood.
D. Edina Day of Service - Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that he attended his
second meeting of what they call the "Edina Day of Service". He noted that it's a
new initiative from the Connecting with Kids group and will be held on Saturday,
October 24th. He explained there is an initiative to try to get every single park with
volunteers in it on that particular day and they are looking at the adopt -a -park
program to be one of those vehicles to include volunteer activities such as a
buckthorn pull with some lilac plantings at Rosland Park. He commented that is just
a small snippet of all of the activities that are trying to plan and get volunteers out on
that day and added that the Park Board will be hearing a lot more about it.
Meeting adjourned at 8:40 pm.
City of Edina
April 24, 2009
Hello Resident Neighbor of Chowen Park:
The Edina Park Board welcomes your input regarding an important proposal for Chowen
Park. The YEA Corps has requested that the City of Edina permit their nonprofit
organization to use a 12' by 16' parcel of land at Chowen Park to create an organic
garden, which will be enclosed by a welded wire fence as shown on the enclosed
drawing. YEA Corps is a charitable and educational nonprofit organization serving
youth ages 13 to 18. To learn more about their organization, please visit their web site at
www,yeacoips.org.
The Edina Park and Recreation Department received a petition from the YEA Corps
requesting the exclusive use of a parcel of land on the south side of the park as shown in
red on the enclosed map. 22 neighboring households signed the petition. At the April
14, 2009, Park Board meeting, the YEA Corps gave the Park Board a presentation of
their proposal, which can be viewed online on the City of Edina's web site at
www.cityofedina.com.
You have received this notice because your household is within 1,000 feet of Chowen
Park. You are encouraged to submit your views in writing to me either via postal mail, e-
mail or fax no later than May 5, 2009. Your written comments will be copied and
forwarded to the Park Board and City Council. You are also welcome to attend the May
12, 2009, Park Board meeting, to express your views in person. Each person is allowed
up to three minutes at the Park Board meeting to express their views. The May 12, 2009,
Park Board meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers in City Hall.
Thank you in advance for your input. If you have any questions about the proposal or
process, feel free to contact me. Many thanks.
Si,
G � �
ohn Keprio ,>irector
Edina Park and Recreation Department
JkepriosL&ci.edina.mn.us
Office: 952-826-0430
FAX: 952-826-0385
City Hall
4801 WEST 50TH STREET
EDINA, MINNESOTA, 55424-1394
Park and Recreation Department
www.cityofedina.com
952-826-0367
FAX 952-826-0385
TTY 952-826-0379
(N
John Keprios
From: wendykessler@aol.com
Sent: Monday, May 04, 2009 10:15 PM
John Keprios
Subject: YEA Chowen Park
John,
I have heard about YEA and their mission. I use Chowen park several times a week. I am in favor of allowing this
important project to happen.
Thanks
Wendy Kessler
4004 Wood End Drive
Edina,MN 55424
Shopping for Mom? Save yourself a_ little time and money on.AOL Shopping.
5/5/2009
John Keprios
From: Jim and Michele Cox Uim_michelecox@yahoo.com]
Sent: Sunday, May 03, 2009 2:03 PM
John Keprios
Subject: Yea Corps Garden Project
I have checked the Yea Corps website and think it is a wonderful idea to use some of the land at Chowen Park for an
organic garden. I am also doing some organic gardening and will be interested to watch the progress of the one at
Chowen. Giving youth the opportunity to be involved in this project in a neighborhood can be nothing but positive.
Go for it!
Sincerely,
Jim and Michele Cox
5729 Abbott Ave. So.
5/5/2009
Page I of I
John Keprios
From: Joanne Holtmeier Oholtmeier@msn.com]
Sent: Thursday, April 30, 2009 6:36 AM
To: John Keprios
Subject: Potential Concerns with YEA Corps' Chowen Park Proposal
Dear Mr. Keprios,
Thank you for the notification of the proposal by the YEA Corps to use a parcel of Chowen Park to
create a garden. I appreciate the opportunity to provide input. When my wife and I read the
proposal we were both puzzled as to why the city would grant use of a public, neighborhood park
for this purpose. I have three potential concerns regarding the proposal.
First, as an Edina neighborhood park, the park should provide for the well being of the
neighborhood and the residents of Edina. I would like to know that the use of the land would be
by youth from the Chowen neighborhood and the city of Edina. While I believe that parks should
be open to all, the primary focus should be on residents of the neighborhood and city. Children
from the neighborhood and Edina community generally feel more pride and treat property and
other park -goers with greater respect than those who are less connected to the area. My
understanding is that the land is to be used by 8th graders from Edina. If the project is indeed
geared for Edina residents, preferably from the Chowen area, then I am supportive.
Second, use of the park should be non-exclusive and available to the public. By putting a fence
around a small parcel it indicates that this land is exclusive and is only available for those who are
involved in the YEA Corps project. Can I assume that I can take my child in at any time and work
the garden, pruning, watering and picking as a learning experience for her? Is it safe and
available to the many preschool and elementary age children who frequent the park? Does it
promote harmony among all children or does it create an environment where some children feel
they have more of a right to it than others, and thus it encourages protective or exclusive
behavior? The park land should be open to all. If this parcel would not be equally open to all, I
would recommend a private resident donate use of their land for the garden.
Finally, it is difficult to tell from the drawings included with the letter, but I assume any structure
would meet all necessary safety standards, and that it would not create any safety risk for the
many small children who use the park. Playground areas have high safety standards. I would
expect this to be of a similar standard.
If these concerns are adequately addressed then my wife and I are supportive of the project. If
any of the concerns is not adequately addressed, we would like to see the park board decline the
proposal and encourage YEA Corps to explore private land options. We wish for our park and all
Edina parks to provide shared, inviting, safe space for our children and residents.
Thanks for the opportunity to comment,
Chris (and Joanne) Holtmeier
Neighbor of Chowen Park
4/30/2009
Page 1 of 1
John Keprios
From: Karin Perry [karinperry@msn.com]
Sent: Saturday, April 25, 2009 6:10 PM
To: John Keprios
Subject: YEA proposal
Dear Mr. Keprios,
The proposal by YEA Corps to create an organic garden in Chowen Park deserves an A+ and gets my beyond -
enthusiastic support.
I wish they could create these oases of beauty and serenity all over the state.
Thank you for giving those of us living near Chowen Park an opportunity to endorse this wonderful endeavor.
Sincerely,
Karin Perry*
5732 France Avenue South
Edina, MN 55410
952-927-7862
Edward Perry deceased
4/27/2009
John Keprios
From:
'ent:
go:
Cc:
Subject:
Dear Mr Keprios,
Larry Fahnoe [fahnoe@FahnoeTech.com]
Monday, April 27, 2009 9:30 AM
John Keprios
Jill Hanson-Fahnoe
Re: Chowen Park garden proposal
My wife and I live at 5709 Chowen Ave S, across from the proposed garden plot. We signed
the initial petition in support of this plan as we liked the idea of a community garden
project supporting a youth group, though at the time we raised the issue of who would be
responsible for watering and tending the garden. Upon receiving your letter and diagrams
we have the following comments to offer.
1) We were not aware that the proposed garden was to be a raised bed enclosed in a
structure. We are concerned about how this structure will look, particularly after the
growing season. The structure may be in the best interest of the plants grown, but we
question if it will be in the best interests of the appearance of the park and thus our
property values. We do not support a permanent structure.
2) The diagram indicates that the structure is to be covered with welded wire mesh on the
top and sides. If an appropriate material is chosen, it might work to protect the garden
from pests and children playing, but with only aft vertical clearance, it will make
tending the garden impractical. An untended garden has the potential to detract from the
pleasant appearance of the park.
3) A vegetable garden of this size will require a significant amount of water throughout
the growing season. While the YEA Corps may have a plan to address this, we do not think
it will be effectively addressed by neighbors offering to water periodically. Hoses
unning across the street will likely be damaged as cars drive over them.
4) Waste from the garden will be another potential issue. Is the City willing to accept
this waste in the single trash barrel by the shelter at the opposite corner of the park?
While we continue to support the idea of a community garden project, we do not think that
the proposed plan is appropriate for this location. The garden has the potential to
become an eyesore in plain view and even if well tended will look sorely out of place
being on a play field, so close to the street and so close to properties. Such a project
might be better situated in one of the larger parks with better facilities. Nearby York
or Strachauer Parks have large non -utilized expanses that do not situate quite so close to
residences (areas that adjoin Minnehaha Creek and Crosstown Hwy. 62,
respectively.)
We do not support the approval of this plan as it stands.
Larry Fahnoe and Jill Hanson-Fahnoe
Larry Fahnoe, Fahnoe Technology Consulting, fahnoe@FahnoeTech.com
952/925-0744 Minneapolis, Minnesota www.FahnoeTech.com
1
Page 1 of 1
John Keprios
From: Paul Juhl [pjuhl727@comcast.net]
Sent: Sunday, April 26, 2009 8:24 AM
To: John Keprios
Subject: Chowen park organic garden
We are in favor of the plan for the YEA Corps to use a parcel of land in Chowen Park for an
organic garden, as outlined in your letter of 4/24. Edina should be encouraging and supporting
more of these.
Paul and Cheryl Juhl
5601 Beard Ave. S.
H: 952-927-9301
C: 952-250-7671
http://www.linkedin.com/in/pauljuhl
4/27/2009
Page 1 of 1
John Keprios
From: Rose Gebo [rosegebo@msn.com]
Sent: Sunday, April 26, 2009 10:14 PM
To: John Keprios
Subject: Chowen Park & YEA Corps
Dear John,
I did receive the notice and it's fine with me that the kids have a garden. In fact, I think it would
be a great project for them.
Rose Gebo
5733 l rc AAve e o
Rediscover Hotmail@: Get e-mail storage that grows with you. Chec_..k....__t_.out._
4/27/2009
John Keprios
From: Michael Bartus [michael@hometwincities.com]
ent: Monday, April 27, 2009 7:09 PM
o: John Keprios
Subject: Chowen Park Organic Garden Mombo...
Dear John,
Hello. My name is Michael Bartus at 5728 Chowen Avenue South in Edina, just a few houses
down from the Chowen Park. I am okay with the folks from the YEA Corps making a nice
visually appealing garden but want to stress if they don't keep it up and it looks bad,
that I and other neighbors will be able to enforce the removal of the garden within a
reasonable amount of time (weeks, not months or years).
Sincerely,
Michael Bartus
952-400-7000
1
City of Edina
4801 W. 50"' Street
Edina, MN 55424
ATTENTION: Scot Housh, City Council Member
John Keprios, Park and Recreation
This letter serves as an expression of my strong objection to any changes that may be considered
or any changes that may be planned to Chowen Park. This neighborhood park has been used by
many of the residents for many years including myself. Our home was purchased by my husband
Lloyd A. Johnson, (deceased). and I, Mary Maxine Johnson, where we raised our five children, and
where Bud Johnson was very active during his life coaching junior league baseball and football.
The families take children up to the park to play on the swings and slides, and relax while watching
them from the sheltered area. There is not enough area here. Removing the ball park space for
gardens would not be adequate. What happens to the tennis courts, the adjacent parking spaces
and the shelter? How will the cost of the proposed changes be charged and to whom?
If a vote is required to secure installation on any new changes to Chowen Park I would hope you will
vote NO.
Sincerely,
MaryMaxine J hnson
5624 Abbott Avenue South
Edina, MN 55410
CC: Scot Housh, City Council Member
CC: John Keprios, Park and Recreation
Dear Mr. Keprios:
GOOD IDEA ABOUT TIME.
Now if you could exhert sole influence on the City Council
to S OP the building of lot line to lot line STARTER CASTLES
and ruining our neighborhood and pushing out normal people and not
allowing anyone but the super rich in!
AND someone neess to explain to the rather seemingly ignorant
politicians that this country will run out of WATER long be6ore
it runs out of oil.
THUS watering the lawn (and most times the street) should not be
allowed 4-5-6 times a week. And don't kid yourself, most
do NOT pay attention to the every other day.
And because the city allows automatic sprinklers to be placed inches
from the street, and lawns slope -- and all seem NOT TO KNOW water does
not run uphill, but rather down, I who walk 2 -- 4 times a day, most
often have to walk in the middle of the street as sprinklers going OFTEN
on both sides at the same time leave only a dry path in the middle of
the street!
Are all city peogl,e by nature stupid? Forgive my typing
50+ years of Multiple Sclerosis has left me with some difficulty with
my right hand esp.
Please do what you can, without endangering your job, to educate the
other city politicians. PLEASE Before it is too late --
not for me, but for your children. Luckily I am old and will be out
of this misery soon, God willing.
Jean Lettner
.�7vc� ��h�� �e-s.
'SSWO
City of Edina
April 24, 2009
Hello Resident Neighbor of Chowen Park:
The Edina Park Board welcomes your input regarding an important proposal for Chowen
Park. The YEA Corps has requested that the City of Edina permit their nonprofit
organization to use a 12' by 16' parcel of land at Chowen Park to create an organic
garden, which will be enclosed by a welded wire fence as shown on the enclosed
drawing. YEA Corps is a charitable and educational nonprofit organization serving
youth ages 13 to 18. To learn more about their organization, please visit their web site at
www. eY acorps.org.
The Edina Park and Recreation Department received a petition from the YEA Corps
requesting the exclusive use of a parcel of land on the south side of the park as shown in
red on the enclosed map. 22 neighboring households signed the petition. At the April
14, 2009, Park Board meeting, the YEA Corps gave the Park Board a presentation of
their proposal, which can be viewed online on the City of Edina's web site at
www.cityofedina.com.
You have received this notice because your household is within 1,000 feet of Chowen
Park. You are encouraged to submit your views in writing to me either via postal mail, e-
mail or fax no later than May 5, 2009. Your written comments will be copied and
forwarded to the Park Board and City Council. You are also welcome to attend the May
12, 2009, Park Board meeting, to express your views in person. Each person is allowed
up to three minutes at the Park Board meeting to express their views. The May 12, 2009,
Park Board meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers in City Hall.
Thank you in advance for your input. If you have any questions about the proposal or
process, feel free to contact me. Many thanks.
Si ely,
ohn Keprio ,irI3r ector
Edina Park and Recreation Department
lkeprios c�ci.cdina.mn.us
Office: 952-826-0430
FAX: 952-826-0385
City Hall
4801 WEST 50TH STREET
EDINA, MINNESOTA, 55424-1394
Park and Recreation Department
www.cityofedina.com
952-826-0367
FAX 952-826-0385
TTY 952-826-0379
Page ] of l
John Keprios
From: paul and tekla knutson [ptknut@mninter.net]
Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2009 4:20 PM
To: John Keprios
Subject: chowen garden
Dear John,
We received your letter regarding the Chowen Park garden. We are in favor of the project. Maybe the
students would also consider selling some of the produce in our neighborhood.
Thank you,
Paul and Tekla Knutson
5721 Abbott Ave. S.
paul and teklnutson
<ptknut@mninter.net>
#(952)-925-1352
4/28/2009
John Keprios
From: conor marrinan [titansfn33@yahoo.com]
ent: Thursday, May 07, 2009 10:31 PM
o: John Keprios
Subject: Chowen Park
Dear John Keprios,
Please accept this e-mail as a vote of opposition to the proposed YEA Corps proposal for
Chowen Park.
Our family, the Marrinan's, Timmy and I had adopted Chowen Park for many years. We have
reservations about this garden proposal.
Chowen Park is one acre and used often for soccer practice. Many families use the
"baseball" area for family fun. This small area could create problems for these activities
to coexist.
York Park is .4 miles from the proposed Chowen Park and is two acres of grass, plenty of
area for a garden and NOT on a busy street. It is on a dead end.
Strachauer Park is .6 miles from Chowen Park and is five acres of land. There is plenty of
room for a garden there. More available room than both previously listed parks.
Chowen Park would be very convenient for Mary Helen Franze, Founder and Executive Director
and Matt Dubbe, Co -Chair, Board Member.
Mary Helen Franze and YEA Corps addresses are across the street, a couple of houses away
from Chowen Park.
We applaud this young educational nonprofit for supporting 13-18 year old teens, so we
ask... could they not walk, ride bikes, skateboard, rollerblade or drive to a larger park?
Why Chowen Park over the two alternatives, York Park or Strachauer Park? Both of these
seem like logical alternatives.
Thank you very much for your time and hopefully you can see that this issue is important
to us, as well as the rest of the community.
hank You,
-onor Marrinan
and Timothy, Patti and Timothy Marrinan
3332 West 56th Street
Edina, MN 55410
1
City of Edina
April 30, 2009
Hello Resident Neighbor of Pamela Park:
The Edina Park Board welcomes your input regarding a proposal to install one additional
batting cage and three electronic scoreboards at the Pamela Park softball field complex.
The Edina Girls Fastpitch Softball Association has offered to donate the cost to purchase
and install three electronic scoreboards; one for each of the three softball fields at Pamela
Park. The scoreboard locations are shown on the enclosed map. As you may or may not
know the Edina High School Varsity and Junior Varsity Girls Fastpitch Softball teams
also practice and play their games at Pamela Park.
I also want to take this opportunity to inform you of an additional batting cage proposed
to be added next to the existing batting cage at Pamela Park. This has been part of the
Edina Park and Recreation Department's five-year Capital Improvement Plan scheduled
for purchase and installation this year. Its location is also shown on the enclosed map. It
is being funded under the City of Edina's CII' program.
You have received this notice because your household is within 500 feet of the three
softball fields at Pamela Park. You are encouraged to submit your views in writing to me
either via postal mail, e-mail or fax no later than May 7, 2009. Your written comments
will be copied and forwarded to the Park Board. You are also welcome to attend the May
12, 2009, Park Board meeting, to express your views in person. Each person is allowed
up to three minutes at the Park Board meeting to express their views. The May 12, 2009,
Park Board meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers in City Hall.
Thank you in advance for your input. If you have any questions about these park
improvements or process, feel free to contact me. Many thanks.
Si re
J Keprios, D' eoc�E r
Edina Park an Recreation Department
Jkeprios(d',ci.edina.inn. us
Office: 952-826-0430
FAX: 952-826-0385
City Hall
4801 WEST 50TH STREET
EDINA, MINNESOTA, 55424-1394
Park and Recreation Department
www.cityofedina.com
952-826-0367
FAX 952-826-0385
TTY 952-826-0379
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From: Luanne Kuna [Ikuna@comcast.net]
Sent: Friday, May 01, 2009 7:26 PM
John Keprios
Subject: Pamela Park improvements
Hi John,
We received your letter regarding the new batting cage and the scoreboards at Pamela Park. We do not object to the
batting cage so long as it does not prohibit further improvements or replacement of the building to be used as a warming
but/community gathering place that is also in the proposed improvements. Regarding the scoreboards, we DO NOT approve of
them. Although the softballs fields are used for high school varsity sports, this is still a neighborhood park with bordering family
dwellings, as opposed to a school campus. We would prefer to limit any fixtures that appear as commercialization of the natural
area. On that same concept, we are not in support of the "Funbrellas" for the new playground. Again, we do not think that they
are fitting with a natural park setting. The picnic shelters at the other Edina parks would fit much better if a shelter is needed.
Examples are Utley Park and Cornelia Park.
Thank you,
Luanne and Dan Kuna
6008 Oaklawn Ave.
5/5/2009
John Keprios
From: James Arnold [arnold5944@yahoo.com]
k
ent: Tuesday, May 05, 2009 4:00 PM
o: John Keprios
Subject: Pamela Park
Dear Mr. Keprios, Enough is enough. We spoke last year about the new soccer lights and how
they would reduce energy which is good,and not be as intrusive to the neighbors. There
have been nights when the lights have been on all night , or past the park closing.We were
not happy about losing the open space at the park due to a temporary fence for baseball or
softball fields. It then became very permanent when the posts went into cement. We were
never notified about it.We do not want electronic scoreboards.I have never seen more than
20 people watch the games, and most are family members. The next thing on their list will
be LIGHTS,CONCESSION STAND&1t;PA SYSTEM, and possibly a dome. I don't think the farmer
that gave this land to the city to be named after his daughter Pamela would appreciate any
of this, and neither do we. Build these at the schools(Southview,Concord,Community
Center,Etc.
Thanks for allowing our imput into this matter, I hope the City and Park and Rec Dept.
listens to the people that are directly affected by this
Regards,
Jim Arnold
5944 Oaklawn Ave.
Edina , Mn.
•
May 6, 2009
TO: John Keprios, Director
Edina Park and Recreation Department
FROM: Dana Arnold
5944 Oaklawn Ave
Edina MN 55424
RE: Plans for Edina Girls Fastpitch Association at Pamela Park
Dear John -
I know you have already communicated with my husband, Jim Arnold. I feel compelled to
express my reaction to the City of Edina's plans in Pamela Park.
Jim grew up in Edina — his father was instrumental in bringing professional sports to Minnesota.
We love to attend Edina games — hockey, football, soccer, and baseball. I am not opposed to
giving our youth the opportunity to play sports in Edina. Our children both grew up across from
Pamela playing several sports for Edina (some games and practices at Pamela) and continue to
come back to enjoy the park - skating at the rink and gathering at the park for picnics, etc. They
love the park and so do we.
Like many of our neighbors that surround Pamela Park, I am not happy with the activity that has
already taken place at the park without any prior approval or notification. The fencing around
the softball fields has been an "eye sore" to what was once a beautiful view. It is starting to look
like Braemar — Pamela is not Braemer or VanValkenburg. It is surrounded on all sides by
residential homes — a community that actively takes pride in the park.
The new lights on the soccer field have been on many nights past park hours.
The softball fields are being watered with underground sprinklers — even when there was a ban
on water usage in our community last summer.
Your letter indicates the Softball Association has OFFERED to donate the cost to purchase and
install three electronic scoreboards... since they are offering money — does this make it right? Is
it all about money making our decisions?
I am greatly saddened and angered by the City's need to build on all of the green grass we have
left in our parks and residential yards in Edina. Bigger, bigger, and bigger... what happened to
the space for families to picnic, fly kites, gather for neighborhood parties, or maybe just sit at the
park in silence. We are always needing to fill the space — add more and more....
STOP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is not necessarily what our families need.
Before we know it you will be building bleachers, towers for sound systems and scoreboards,
pavilions. Why is it that we have to ruin the aesthetic retreat spaces for our children,
adolescents, and adults? Some of the simple pleasures and pride of being a resident of Edina are
the beauty of parks, walking trails, and just observing the beauty. Pamela is often filled with
families and children just enjoying the free space.
We are witnessing a 180 degree departure from the park's intent and aesthetic virtue — a decline
in the value of the park.
I am saddened on a daily basis by the decisions we are making in this community. I have been
working full time for 20+ years in this community and have lived for 27 years in Edina. I love
the people and support our youth. I feel this time you are going too far! ! ! ! ! ! PLEASE STOP! ! ! ! !
More is not always the best decision. Leave us space to be free and support our green
environment that we desperately need in our hectic lives. Take the big softball plans you have to
another park that doesn't effect residential communities.
I will be at the meeting next week as well as many of our neighbors. Please listen to our voices.
I am thankful for your listening to my concerns.
Blessings,
Dana Arnold
John Keprios
From: Amundson, Karen [Karen.Amundson@idq.com]
Sent: Wednesday, May 06, 2009 2:32 PM
John Keprios
Subject: PAMELA PARK
John, we are strongly opposed to the scoreboards proposed for Pamela Park.
First, I am very concerned with the process thus far and the seemly short time period for neighborhood review and feedback.
Our neighbors came to us Saturday evening to see if we had received the notice on the proposal to install scoreboards at the
Pamela Park softball field complex. Unfortunately, we did not receive, nor have we received, any notice and it makes me
wonder if others have been properly notified. The neighbors who came to us received their notice on Saturday. Given the short
time to reply, I wonder how long this proposal has been in the planning and why much more neighborhood involvement wasn't
planned for on the front side of this process.
Our home backs up to Pamela on the north end of the field. The black fence went in without anyone being notified. The fence
prevented a lot of folks in the winter to utilize the grounds on the north end of the park for cross country skiing and other
outdoor activities. Given the lack of notification on the fence, one would have thought there would be greater sensitivity to
further development at the park. I'm very concerned that this beautiful neighborhood park that we have lived near for over 40
years is working towards becoming a commercial complex for women's fast pitch.
The schools have gotten along for all these years without the scoreboards. If that is needed then why not have these games at
one of the other parks where it doesn't affect the homes around it. How many parks in Edina do neighbors look right out on to
scoreboards? I wonder how many of the Board members on the Edina Girls Fastpitch Softball Association would enjoy looking
out their windows at these scoreboards? Whether you've lived in the neighborhood for 4 years or 40 this would be
+ forming this neighborhood park to a professional softball complex.
This move will certainly devalue the homes around this area. It is a detriment to the properties and certainly to Pamela Park.
This all makes me wonder, what else does the Soft Ball Assoc. have planned for this area of the park? My greatest concern is
that this may be a precursor to further illumination in this area. I truly wonder if this association has any concern for the
neighborhood at all, because most likely most of them probably do not live right around the park area.
We have been residence of Edina for 42 years. We have been stewards of this beautiful park and to the children of this
community. We've had children come to our home for safety during storms, calling their parents because their game maybe
finished earlier than expected or they forgot to pick them up (believe it or not), drinking water, using the bathroom, children
who have gotten injured, you name it, we've been there for them.
I invite any of the Board members to visit our home so they can see for themselves what we and the neighbors would be dealing
with; you can get a firsthand view from our living room and kitchen. Also you can see what those folks across the street will be
looking at from their living room windows, let alone the individual who lives just below the hill from us. She will look right out
onto the scoreboard.
I hope you will seriously take into consideration how this will change the appearance of this portion of the park. Granted you're
not dealing with a lot of homes, but it's not taking into consideration of how it will appear to those who live around it and the
many families that use the park.
Thank you for your time and please put us on your mailing list.
r .n & Karen Amundson
S- _.j Oaklawn Avenue
Edina, MN 55424
952/920-7748(H)
5/6/2009
John Keprios
From: fritzie@reaIto ur.ty
ent: Friday, May 01, 2009 2:42 PM
o: John IKeprios
Subject: Re: Pamela Park
Dear Dir. Keprios-
Thank you. I will do my best to attend. In the meantime, here is my input:
I visited the northern Pamela Park site suggestion, and estimated the community garden at
Pamela Park might be 100 x 100 feet, with five-foot strips of grass running throughout in
one direction, making five gardens by ten gardens. That makes 50 10 x 10 ft. gardens. That
would create $1,250 in rent at .25 per square foot.
If 2 households on each block wanted to garden, that would suggest drawing from a 25 -block
area at the north end of the park. I think with a fudge factor, 36 square blocks (six
blocks by six blocks) could be considered, allowing for the fact that there is a waiting
list.
We have some limited sun in the front yard of our Wooddale Ave. home. Does the city have
any restrictions on putting a vegetable garden there?
Thanks,
Janice Borgwardt
>-----Original Message -----
>From: John Keprios[mailto:JKeprios@ci.edina.mn.us]
Sent: Friday, May 1, 2009 11:15 AM
,To: fritzie@realtour.ty
>Subject: RE: Pamela Park
>Janice:
>I have decided that the best way to handle this request is to have a
>consultant study all reasonable sites and give the Park Board
>recommendations where these community gardens will work best. That
>will be my recommendation for the Park Board to discuss and debate on May 12.
>I encourage you to attend the Park Board meeting if you wish to share
>your views on that recommendation. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. in
>the Council Chambers.
>It is not realistic to assume that any community gardens will be
>approved for 2009. Unfortunately the public process takes a lot of
>time.
>If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.
>John Keprios, Director
>Edina Park & Recreation Department
>4801 W. 50th St.
>Edina, MN 55424
>Voice: (952) 826-0430
>Fax: (952) 826-0385
>jkeprios@ci.edina.mn.us
>"We Create Community through People, Parks and Programs"
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Neighborhood gardens in Edina?
Promoting:
• A greener environment
• Economical and healthy food for our tables
• Community coming together
Pamela Park would be a wonderful place to start.
We are asking neighbors of Pamela Park, perhaps those with too much shade,
how they like the idea in time for the 2009 planting season.
If you can support this idea, please sign our petition.
For more information, contact Fritzie Borgwardt at 612-207-3011 or
fritzie@realtour.ty
April 26, 2009
Dear Mr. Keprios,
I am writing to request support to start a community garden at York Park on 54th
and York Avenue in Edina. We have lived at 5412 York Ave. for the past 17 years and
have often discussed the possibility of a garden with our neighbors. We would like
to do our part in creating an example of an effort in growing some of our own food
(sustainability).
We are interested in starting out small with a 20 by 10 foot area located in the
northwest corner of the park, out of the way of baseball or soccer games. The new
play equipment has been wonderful for attracting more neighbors and we have seen
an increase in use of the open space. Water would be accessed from the creek (we
believe to be the best choice), or the hydrant with extended hoses. Our neighbors on
all sides are in agreement with this plan.
The plan is to construct a 3 foot chicken wire around the perimeter, fertilize with
compost, and raise beds for the vegetables/flowers. We will keep the plants to a
minimum the first year, so as to gauge it's success.
Please let me know what further steps I need to take so as to get permission to begin
constructing our community garden. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to
hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Carol Markham -Cousins
5412 York Ave. So
Edina, MN 55410
952-928-0686
camar004@mpls.kl2.mn.us
•
Minutes of the
Pamela Park Task Force
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on April 21, 2009
Edina City Hall, Mayors Conference Room
MEMBERS PRESENT: Sid Sampson (Edina Fast Pitch Association, Ross Tomoson
(Edina Football Association), David Nelson (Edina Resident), Scott Lambert (Edina
Resident)
STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Ed MacHolda
CONSULTANTS PRESENT: Roy Anderson ( Anderson -Johnson Associates), Jared Lee
(Anderson -Johnson Associates), Tammy Magney (ASTR Architects)
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS
John Keprios, Park and Recreation Director welcomed and thanked the group for coming
and once again began the meeting with introductions.
PROPOSED PROJECTS FOR PAMELA PARK
Shelter Building Improvements — Tammy Magney passed out a hard copy of her power
point presentation before going through the power point. Mr. Keprios asked Sid
Sampson the importance of storage for his program. Mr. Sampson stated he didn't really
know about importance, but did state it would certainly be a nice convenience. When
Ms. Magney was done with the presentation Mr. Sampson mentioned that he liked Plan B
with the covered patio. There was some discussion regarding the transformer, the storage
room and restrooms. In the end Mr. Keprios stated that Ms. Magney's study did exactly
what he was looking for. It gives us four good options to bring back to the Edina Park
Board and Edina City Council.
Protective Barrier around Artificial Turf — Mr. Keprios showed some photo's of Creek
Valley and Rosland Park where the City of Edina has bollards and chain as well as the
Edina High School large decorative stones. He stated that at the High School the large
decorative stones serve two purposes one to keep automobiles from driving across the
field and the other to act as spectator seating. David Nelson stated that he prefers the
large stone. Scott Lambert's preference was to secure the parking lots with the bollards
and chain.
Batting Cage and Pitching Tunnel — Mr. Keprios next showed a pitching tunnel and asked
Mr. Sampson to talk briefly about it and how it functions. Jared Lee stated that he visited
this site in Shoreview, but stated the fencing was very beat up. Mr. Sampson stated that it
serves two fields. Mr. Lee and Mr. Sampson discussed the number of batting cages and
pitching tunnels desired and what would be the most cost effective. Mr. Lee thought you
could do one double wide. Mr. Lee next pointed out the new batting cage location. Mr.
Keprios asked about the location and putting pitchers at risk. Mr. Sampson agreed, he
stated ideally you don't want it down a baseline.
North Parking Lot Expansion — Mr. Lee put a large map of Pamela Park up with all the
proposed changes and additions for the group to see. He then began to discuss them one
by one starting with the north parking lot. Mr. Lee recommends curb and gutter to give
residents a defined edge and keep participants from parking on private property.
Fencing for Field #2
Mr. Keprios asked the question regarding permanent fencing on field #2. Mr. Keprios
and Mr. Lee discussed the proposed grading. Mr. Sampson thought it would be nice to
have the separation. Mr. Keprios asked Mr. Nelson and Mr. Lambert what the
neighborhood thought. Mr. Nelson stated that he felt the neighborhood would prefer a
temporary fence and would want to know how large the scoreboards were. Mr. Sampson
talked about the difficulties of temporary fencing and the logistics. Mr. Keprios stated it
sounds unresolved.
South and West Parking Lots
Mr. Lee next pointed out the parking lot off of Oaklawn Avenue and that he is proposing
to make it double wide. Mr. Sampson asked about bollards and chain because he see's
cars drive right down the hill. Mr. Keprios asked the question if we were to build the
proposed new athletic field where did Mr. Lee think they would park. Mr. Lee thought
participants would park in the south parking lot. Mr. Lee went on to say that it might be
very difficult to expand the south lot because of the laws and the wetlands. Mr. Nelson
talked briefly about the proposed parking along the driveway entering the park. He stated
that the residents would not be favor of those proposed parking stalls.
Storage Building on South End
Mr. Keprios asked the question regarding a proposed storage building at the south end of
the park. There was some discussion, but it was decided that it wasn't needed.
Scoreboards
Mr. Keprios then asked Ed MacHolda to discuss the scoreboards briefly. Mr. MacHolda
passed out Daktronics catalogs and proposal sheets from Gerry Gordon. Mr. MacHolda
pointed out that the scoreboards being proposed were tabbed and highlighted in the
catalog. There was also some discussion on location which was approved by the group.
Mr. Lee stated that Minnetonka likes to see the time on the scoreboard so they like model
#718. Mr. Sampson thanked Mr. Lee for that piece of information. Mr. Keprios then
talked about the next steps, but felt this group was probably done and thanked everyone
for their participation.
Creative Solutions for Land Planning and Design
[ilia
Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. Ion
Community Gardens Study - City of Edina
Project Understanding
There is great interest in community gardening in Edina and across the United States. Community
gardens can provide many public and private benefits, but decisions regarding the location, design
and operation of gardens must be done wisely to ensure a successful and efficient experience for all
parties.
The City of Edina desires the services of a consultant to lead a study to answer key questions
involved with community gardens such as:
➢ What attributes are needed for a successful community garden?
➢ How do community gardens fit with the broader scope of urban agriculture, farmer's
markets, sense of community and a connected community?
➢ What are the best locations for community gardens?
➢ How many gardens are needed?
➢ How should the gardens be designed, operated and maintained?
Experience:
Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. (HKGi) is an award-winning planning, landscape architecture and
urban design firm with over 25 years of serving public and private sector clients in the upper
Midwest. The firm's 18 planners and landscape architects have extensive planning and design
experience and are passionate about creating healthy, active, sustainable communities.
HKGi's planners, landscape architects and urban designers have extensive experience in community
gardens, site evaluation and garden design and operations.
➢ HKGi staff have planned, designed, constructed and operated public community gardens in
several metro area cities.
➢ We have led training sessions on planning and design community gardens and urban
agriculture for the Twin Cities region.
➢ We know Edina and feel we have a successful working relationship with staff, city officials
and the public.
➢ We are experts at site evaluation, public participation, site planning and design.
123 North Third Street, Suite 100, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1659
Ph (612) 338-0800 Fx (612) 338-6838
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Planning Team
The Edina Community Garden Study will be lead by Greg Ingraham. Anna Claussen will be the primary
planner and garden designer. Greg and Anna will be assisted by other HKGi planning, design and
administrative staff as needed. Resumes are available upon request. We view the community garden study
as a partnership between HKGi staff, City of Edina staff, the Edina Park Board and community members.
Combining our planning, garden and design expertise with local knowledge and ideas will result in the best
strategy for a successful community gardening program in Edina.
Fees and Schedule
Hoisington Koegler Group will prepare the Edina Community Garden Study according to the process
(tasks, meetings and deliverables) as noted in the Study Approach/Scope of Work for consulting services
fee of $14,790. This is based on five meetings with City staff and two Park Board/community meetings.
Any additional meetings or tasks beyond the defined approach/scope of work will be done at an hourly rate
when authorized in advance by City staff.
City Responsibilities
The City is to schedule Park Board meetings, copy and distribute preliminary and final study deliverables
(from digital originals provided by HKGi) provide notice/outreach to the community and neighborhoods,
as appropriate, and provide digital base information of the City and candidate garden sites to HKGi. The
City is to pay for work completed in accordance with approach/scope of work within 30 days of receipt of
invoice from HKGi.
Acceptance
Hoisington Koegler Group is authorized to commence work and to prepare the Edina Community Garden
study according to the scope and schedule contained in this proposal.
For the City of Edina, MN: Date:
Title:
For Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. May 5, 2009
Greg Ingraham, ASLA, AICP
Vice President
123 North Third Street, Suite 100, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1659
Ph (612) 338-0800 Fx (612) 338-6838
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CITY OF
OOMINGTON
MINNESOTA
Spring 2009
To All Garden Plot Applicants:
Please review the 2009 Community Gardens Rental Agreement along with the 2009 Garden Plot
Application. If you are interested in renting a garden plot please complete the application,
including the signature and date, acknowledging that you have read and agree to the
Community Gardens Rental Agreement. Return the application along with your check (made
payable to the City of Bloomington) in the amount of $32.00 ($64.00 for 2 plots), or fill out the credit
card payment section. Applications and payment should be mailed to:
City of Bloomington
Parks & Recreation Division
Garden Plot Application
1800 W Old Shakopee Rd
Bloomington MN 55431
The returning renters' priority registration period closes at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2009. This
priority registration is offered to 2008 Community Garden renters in good standing. Monday, April
6, through Friday April 10, new applications from Bloomington residents will be processed on a first-
come, first served basis. Beginning Tuesday, April 14, all remaining applications will be processed
on a first-come, first-served basis.
Due to the high demand of these garden plots, Bloomington Parks and Recreation has
implemented a new policy limiting renters to two garden plots during the initial application
process. If you indicate on your application that you wish to rent three or more plots you will
initially only be assigned two plots. If plots remain available one week prior to the start of the
gardening season they will be offered to those whose application indicated interest in three or more
plots. Additional plots will be offered to applicants in the order stated in the preceding paragraph.
Individuals will be contacted and given 24 hours to respond and pay for the additional rentals (we
can accept credit card payments by phone). After 24 hours the plot(s) may be offered to another
applicant.
Thank you for your interest in Bloomington Parks and Recreation facilities. If you need additional
information, please contact me at 952-563-8882.
Sincerely,
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES
Mara Evans
Parks & Recreation Division
PARKS AND RECREATION DIVISION
1800 W, OLD SHAKOPE£ ROAD, BLOOMINGTON MN 55431-3027 AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL
PH 952-563-8877 FAX 952-563-8715 TTY 951-563-8740 OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER
C
CITY OF
JLOOMINGTON
MINNESOTA
r�
U
COMMUNITY GARDENS RENTAL AGREEMENT
THE CITY AGREES TO:
1. Prepare the garden plot for planting.
2. Stake out each 10' x 15' plot and identify all plots by number.
3. Make water accessible to gardeners.
4. Refund rental fee (less a $10 administrative fee) if requested in writing prior to May 1, 2009.
I, THE COMMUNITY GARDENER, AGREE TO:
1. Supply my own seeds, fertilizer and tools for proper preparation and cultivation of crops.
2. Be a good gardening neighbor:
➢ Limit activity for me and my family or guests to my personal plot.
➢ Park my car in the Concordia Academy parking lot or along Park Avenue on the east side
only, reserving the west side for homeowners.
➢ Harvest produce from my garden plot only.
➢ Remove paper and trash from the area.
3. Keep garden pests (weeds, insects and diseases) under control.
4. Use only approved pesticides (herbicides are prohibited.)
5. Completely remove weed blocking material, if use. If ANY weed blocking materials (plastic or
fabric) remain in my plot after October 15, 2009 I may be required to pay a penalty of up to
$50.00 and/or banned from renting a garden plot with the City of Bloomington in the future.
6. Clean up my garden plot by October 15, 2009; but leave plant materials.
The community gardener shall keep his/her garden plot cultivated and shall abide by the following
restrictions:
a. No structure shall be built on the premises and no tall growing trees shall be planted thereon.
b. No temporary fixtures, portable equipment, or materials shall be placed on the premises which
may tend to create a nuisance.
c. No automobiles, trucks or trailers shall be parked on the premises.
d. No use of the premises shall be made which tends to induce third persons to drive or trespass
upon Xcel's land adjacent to garden plots, or which give rise to bona fide objections to such use
from residents in the area.
The community gardener shall place organic waste in either of the compost piles at the ends of the garden
area where city maintenance can remove it periodically.
Individual gardens may be fenced with chicken wire no more than three feet in height to protect crops
from rabbits.
(Continued on next page)
PARKS AND RECREATION fl1V1510N
1800 W. OLD SHAKOPEE ROAD, BLOOMINGTON MN 55431-3027 AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL
PH 952-563-8877 FAX 952-563-8715 TTY 952-563-8740 OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER
(Continued)
The community gardener agrees to assume all liability and to indemnify and compensate the City and
Xcel for any injury or damage to persons or property including Xcel's property or employees occasioned
by or arising in connection with the use of the premises by the community gardener. The community
gardener further agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City and Xcel against all actions,
claims, damages or demands which may be brought or made either against the City or Xcel or against
Xcel's interest in the premises by reason of anything done by the community gardener, in the exercise or
purported exercise of the rights and privileges herein granted.
In case of termination of the lease agreement between the City of Bloomington and Xcel, the City shall
immediately notify the community gardener of the termination. The community Gardener shall have 15
days to clean up his/her garden plot.
THE CITY OF BLOOMINGTON AND XCEL ASSUME NO LIABILITY FOR ACCIDENTS OR
INJURY TO PARTICIPANTS OR OTHERS EITHER ON OR ADJACENT TO THE GARDEN
AREA. NEITHER DOES THE CITY OR XCEL ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR ACTS OF
VANDALISM OR LOSS OF CROPS DUE TO THEFT.
I agree to abide by these conditions set forth for the Community Gardener.
Applicant's signature on the Garden Plot Application acknowledges
receipt and agreement to abide by the conditions contained within this
Community Gardens Rental Agreement.
PARKS AND RECREATION DIVISION
1800 W. OLD SHAKOPEE ROAD, BLOOMINGTON MN 55431-3027 AN ,AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL
PH 952.563-8877 FAX 952-563-8715 TTY 952-563-8740 OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER
61
For office use only:
Date received
CITY o F New/Returning
Res/Non - res
OOMINGTON
Plot #(s) assigned
MINNESOTA
BLOOMINGTON COMMUNITY GARDENS
2009 PLOT APPLICATION
♦ Bloomington Community Gardens are located south of Smith Park and Concordia Academy on Park
Avenue, between 82nd and 83rd Streets.
♦ This land is being provided for gardening by Xcel through an agreement with the City of Bloomington.
Last Name*
Street Address *
Home phone number*
Information
First Name*
Apt# City* Zip Code*
Work/Cell
Email address
Supplying this information will provide you with important updates (i.e. delay of spring tilling due to weather)
Plot information
I am a new renter I am a returning renter My 2008 plot number(s) was/were
I would like to rent 1 / 2 garden plot(s) for the 2009 gardening season*
circle one
Please assign me:
the same plot(s) I had last year
other (please explain
the plot(s) closest to the water tank
Please contact me if additional garden plots are available. I would like to rent a total of
plots. I understand I will have 24 hours to reply and pay for the additional plots.
I have read and agree to abide by the Community Gardens Rental A14reement
Owner/Applicant Signature*
Pavinent Information
Date
* required information
ENCLOSE $32.00 (one plot)/$64.00 (two plots) RENTAL FEE
Attention: paying for more than 2 plots at this time will delay the processing of your application!
❑ Check (made out to City of Bloomington) ❑ Cash ❑ Visa ❑ MasterCard ❑ Discover
Name on credit card Authorized amount to charge
Signature Expiration Date:
Credit card number - - -
PARKS AND RECREATION DivISION
1800 W. OLD SHAKOPEE ROAD, BLOOMINGTON MN 55431-3027 AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL
PH 952-563-8877 FAX 952.563-8715 TTY 952-563-8740 OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER
CURRENT RELATIONSHIP DOCUMENT LANGUAGE
The Park and Recreation Department mandates background checks on
all individuals 18 & older who serve as a coach, referee, or on the Board
of Directors in any association. It is our intent to protect our children,
families and the associations. It is strongly recommended that Edina
youth athletic associations work jointly to contract with one private
organization to conduct the background checks and manage the data.
The Park and Recreation Department mandates that each Edina youth
athletic association use the following standard for disqualifying coach
and Board of Director applicants:
• Burglary
• Weapons violations
• Child abuse/neglect
• Contributing to the delinquency of a minor
• Domestic violence
• Drug sale or possession
• Two or more DWIs in the past 10 years
• Trespassing
• Any felony
• Forgery
• Theft
• Incest
• Lewd/lascivious behavior
• Property damage
• Prostitution
• Obstructing legal process
• Sex offenses
• Any violent crime
RECOMMENDED CRITERIA FOR EXCLUSION
The Park and Recreation Department mandates background checks on all individuals 18 &
older who serve as a coach, referee, or on the Board of Directors in any association. It is our
intent to protect our children, families and the associations. The Park and Recreation
Department mandates that each Edina youth athletic association use the following standard
for disqualifying coach and Board of Director applicants.
A person should be disqualified and prohibited from serving as a volunteer if the person has
been found guilty of the following crimes:
Guilty means that a person was found guilty following a trial, entered a guilty plea, entered a
no contest plea accompanied by a court finding of guilty, regardless of whether there was an
adjudication of guilt (conviction) or a withholding ofguilt. This recommendation does not
apply if criminal charges resulted in acquittal, Nolle Prosse, or dismissal.
SEX OFFENSES
➢ All Sex Offenses —Regardless of the amount of time since offense.
Examples include: child molestation, rape, sexual assault, sexual battery,
sodomy, prostitution, solicitation, indecent exposure, etc.
FELONIES
➢ All Felony Violence — Regardless of the amount of time since offense.
Examples include: murder, manslaughter, aggravated assault,
kidnapping, robbery, aggravated Burglary, etc.
➢ All Felony offenses other than violence or sex within the past 10 years.
Examples include: drug offenses, theft, embezzlement, fraud, child
endangerment, etc.
MISDEMEANORS
➢ All misdemeanor violence offenses within the past 7 years
Examples include: simple assault, battery, domestic violence, hit & run, etc.
➢ All misdemeanor drug & alcohol offenses within the past S years or multiple
offenses in the past 10 years.
Examples include: driving under the influence, simple drug possession, drunk
and disorderly, public intoxication, possession of'drug paraphernalia, etc.
➢ Any other misdemeanor within the past S years that would be considered a potential
danger to children or is directly related to the functions of that volunteer.
Example include: contributing to the delinquency of a minor, providing alcohol
to a minor, theft — if'per:son is handling monies, etc.
PENDING CASES
It is recommended that anyone who has been charged for any of the disqualifying offenses or
for cases pending in court should not be permitted to volunteer until the official adjudication
of the case.
Policy 404
Personnel
Employment Background Checks
I. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe and healthful environment in the
school district in order to promote the physical, social, and psychological well-being
of its students. To that end, the school district will seek a criminal history
background check for applicants who receive an offer of employment with the
school district and on all individuals who are offered the opportunity to provide
athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services to
the school district, regardless of whether any compensation is paid or such other
background checks as provided by this policy. The school district may also elect to
do background checks of other volunteers, independent contractors and student
employees in the school district.
II. General Statement of Policy
A. The school district shall require that applicants for school district positions who
receive an offer of employment and all individuals who are offered the
opportunity to provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular
academic coaching services to the school district, regardless of whether any
compensation is paid submit to a criminal history background check. The offer
of employment or the opportunity to provide services shall be conditioned upon
a determination by the school district that an individual's criminal history does
not preclude the individual from employment with, or provision of services to,
the school district.
B. The school district specifically reserves any and all rights it may have to
conduct background checks regarding current employees, applicants, or
service providers without the consent of such individuals.
C. Adherence to this policy by the school district shall in no way limit the school
district's right to require additional information, or to use procedures currently in
place or other procedures to gain additional background information concerning
employees, applicants, volunteers, service providers, independent contractors
and student employees.
III. Procedures
A. Normally an individual will not commence employment or provide services until
the school district receives the results of the criminal history background check.
The school district may conditionally hire an applicant or allow an individual to
provide services pending completion of the background check, but shall notify
the individual that the individual's employment or opportunity to provide
services may be terminated based on the result of the background check.
404-1
Background checks will be performed by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal
Apprehension (hereinafter "the BCA"). The school district reserves the right to
also have criminal history background checks conducted by other organizations
or agencies.
B. In order for an individual to be eligible for employment or to provide athletic
coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services to the
school district, the individual must sign a criminal history consent form, which
provides permission for the school district to conduct a criminal history
background check, and provide a money order or check payable to either the
BCA or to the school district, at the election of the school district, in an amount
equal to the actual cost to the BCA and the school district of conducting the
criminal history background check. If the individual fails to provide the school
district with a signed informed consent form and fee at the time the individual
receives a job offer, or permission to provide services, the individual will be
considered to have voluntarily withdrawn the application for employment or
request to provide services.
C. The school district, in its discretion, may elect not to request a criminal history
background check on an individual who holds an initial entrance license issued
by the state board of teaching or the commissioner of education within the 12
months preceding an offer of employment or permission to provide services.
D. The school district may use the results of a criminal background check
conducted at the request of another school hiring authority if:
1. The results of the criminal background check are on file with the other
school hiring authority or otherwise accessible;
2. The other school hiring authority conducted a criminal background check
within the previous 12 months;
3. The individual executes a written consent form giving the school district
access to the results of the check; and
4. There is no reason to believe that the individual has committed an act
subsequent to the check that would disqualify the individual for employment
or for provision of services.
E. For all current and former nonstate residents who are offered employment or
the opportunity to provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular
academic coaching services to the school district, the school district shall
request a criminal history background check on such individuals from the
superintendent of the BCA and from the government agency performing the
same function in the resident state, or if no government entity performs the
same function in the resident state, from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The offer of employment or the opportunity to provide services shall be
conditioned upon a determination by the school district that an individual's
criminal history does not preclude the individual from employment with, or
404-2
provision of services to, the school district. Such individuals must provide an
executed criminal history consent form.
F. When required, individuals must provide fingerprints to assist in a criminal
history background check. If the fingerprints provided by the individual are
unusable, the individual will be required to submit another set of prints.
G. Copies of this policy shall be available in the school district's employment office
and will be distributed to applicants for employment and individuals who are
offered the opportunity to provide athletic coaching services or other
extracurricular academic coaching services upon request. The need to submit
to a criminal history background check may be included with the basic criteria
for employment or provision of services in the position posting and position
advertisements.
H. The individual will be informed of the results of the criminal background
check(s) to the extent required by law.
I. If the criminal history background check precludes employment with, or
provision of services to, the school district, the individual will be so advised.
J. The school district may apply these procedures to other volunteers,
independent contractors or student employees as though they were applicants
for employment or providing athletic coaching services or other extracurricular
academic coaching services.
K. At the beginning of each school year or when a student enrolls, the school
district will notify parents and guardians about this policy and identify those
positions subject to a criminal background check and the extent of the school
district's discretion in requiring a background check. The school district may
include this notice in its student handbook, a school policy guide, or other
similar communication. A form notice (Appendix 1) for this purpose is included
with this policy.
IV. Criminal History Consent Form
A form to obtain consent for a criminal history background check is included with
this policy.
Legal References:
Minn. Stat. § 12313.03 (Background Checks)
Minn. Stat. §§ 299C.60 -299C.64 (Minnesota Child Protection Background Check Act)
Minn. Stat. § 364.09(b) (Exception for School Districts)
Policy INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 273
adopted: 9/22/08 Edina, Minnesota
amended: 2/23/09
404-3
0 Appendix
BACKGROUND CHECK FORM FOR PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYEES
Edina Public Schools
Human Resources Department
5701 Normandale Road
Edina, MN 55424
(952) 848-3900
Date:
The following named individual has made an employment application with Edina Public
Schools. The applicant must provide the following information:
Last Name (PLEASE PRINT):
First Name (PLEASE PRINT):
Full Middle Name (PLEASE PRINT):
Maiden, Alias or Former Names (PLEASE PRINT):
• Date of Birth: Sex (M or F):
Month/Day/Year
Social Security Number:
If you have lived out of state since the age of 18, please complete the enclosed
fingerprint card and check the following box:
F-1Edina Public Schools is requesting a federal background check in accordance
with Minnesota Statutes, Section 123B.03, Subdivision 1(d). The required
fingerprint card, this consent form, and district -issued check, payable to the BCA
in the amount of $24.25, are enclosed.
By my signature, I authorize the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension ("BCA") to
disclose criminal history record information to the Human Resources Department of
Edina Public Schools in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, Section 123B.03, for the
purpose of employment with the district.
The authorization is valid no longer than one year from the date of my signature.
Signature of Applicant
404-4
Date
�l� tuS • ��,i
feel rhe SpArl?
South View Middle School
4 4725 South View Lane
Edina, MN 55424
Mr. John Keprios
Edina City Hall
4801 W. 50' St. Edina, MN 55424
Dear Mr. Keprios
Andy Vigil
CIO South View Lane
Edina, MN 55424
April 20, 2009
My name is Andy vigil and I am a student at south view middle school and I am a
skateboarder who is in need' of a public skate park in Edina.
There are many skateboarders in Edina and need a local skate park to go to. We
are seeing to many "No Skateboarding" signs. We have no places to skate except the
streets and the streets can be dangerous. We would want a free skate park that does not
require a waiver nor helmets (skate at own risk). A good model example for the skate
park would look like the St. Louis Park skate board park.
Thank you for your time and consideration.,
Sincerely,
,� n
� , 1
Andy Vig/if/
City of Edina
April 28, 2009
Andy Vigil
C/O Ms. Bailey
South View Middle School
4725 South View Lane
Edina, MN 55424
Dear Andy:
Thank you for your letter requesting a local skate park that is open to the public at no
charge. I gather from your letter that you might be familiar with the YMCA Tri -City
Skate Park next to the Southdale YMCA. If you are not familiar with that magnificent
facility, I encourage you to visit their website at:
littp://www.Mcatwincities.orWassets/pdfs/sdpdfs/sd skatepark 09.pdf
I like your idea of developing a free skate park similar to the skate board park in St. Louis
Park. I have seen many other free skate parks throughout Minnesota and the United
States. I am considering converting the tennis courts at Rosland Park in Edina into a free
skate board park. The challenge for now is lack of available funding. With Minnesota
State Legislature imposed levy limits, the prospect of developing new amenities in the
parks is not good in the near future.
I do appreciate and enjoy hearing from our young residents. Please know that your letter
will be copied and forwarded to the Edina Park Board for further consideration.
Many thanks.
S' rely,
John Kepri irector
Edina Park and Recreation Department
City Hall
4801 WEST 50TH STREET
EDINA, MINNESOTA, 55424-1394
Park and Recreation Department
www.cityofedina.com
952-826-0367
FAX 952-826-0385
TTY 952-826-0379
May 11, 2009
John Keprios
Parks & Recreation Department
City of Edina
4801 West 50" Street
Edina, MN 55424-1394
Re: Pamela Park
Master Plan Study
Dear Mr. Keprios,
ANDERSON - JOHNSON
ASSOCIATES,
LVC
LAADSC.aPE ARCHITECTURE • SITE PLANNING • C1V1L E.VC;LVEERIA'G
We respectfully submit herewith the substantially completed Master Plan Study for site improvements at
Pamela Park. The following narrative provides a brief description of the events occurring during the
course of this study..
You will recall our work began originally in 2007 as a feasibility study for constructing an additional
soccer field generally west of the present lighted soccer field. A number of constraints were identified
within that area, the least of which were the delineation of wetlands and the elevation of the storm water
flood plain.
Subsequently, a topographic and wetland delineation survey was ordered. The elevation of the flood
plain, which was being re -studied by the DNR, was not yet available. With only limited information
available, it was nevertheless generally determined that the field could be constructed, although
considerable site modification would be required. The study was temporarily put on hold.
On December 30, 2008, an email was received requesting the study be resumed and expanded to include
the preparation of a Master Plan for the entire site. The email identified the following initial program of
improvements be considered:
• batting cages
• scoreboard
• parking lot expansion
• parking lot renovation
• athletic field additions
• conversion of the existing lighted grass field to synthetic turf
On May 29, 2008 a meeting with City staff was held to review site potentials and constraints and to
further refine the program. In attendance were John Keprios, Ed McHolda, Wayne Houle, Jesse Struse,
Vince Cockriel, Jared Lee and Roy Anderson. The constraints of the site were now better identified and
the program further defined. With the now available topographic survey, wetland delineation and an
established flood plain elevation, AJA resumed a broader analysis of the site and began exploring the
location and arrangement of programmed facilities.
On January 29, 2009 a meeting was held with your staff and representatives of the Pamela Park Planning
Committee. The committee members represented were: Bruce Johnson, Steve Fox, Luanne Kune, David
Nelson, Scott Lambert, Steve Barrett, Bill Swoap, Jack Mertes, Laura Davis and Collin Brinkman. The
preliminary plan was presented, reviewed and program adjustments noted.
VALLEY SQUARE OFFICE CENTER • SUITE 200 • 7575 GOLDEN VALLEY ROAD • MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55427
PHONE (763) 544-7129 • FAX(763)544-0531
May 11, 2009
Pamela Park Master Plan Study
Page 2
On April 20, 2009 a meeting was held with your staff and the following members of the Planning
Committee: Sid Sampson, David Nelson, Ross Thompson and Scott Lambert. The preliminary study
plan was presented for review and comments noted. With those comments noted for revision, it was
determined that further committee meetings would be suspended. The site improvements now identified
and to be shown on the Master Plan are:
• Additional Athletic Field
• Artificial Turf Field with Protective Barrier
• Batting Cage and Pitching Tunnel
• Softball Field Scoreboards
• North Parking Lot Expansion
• West Parking Lot Expansion
• South Parking Lot Expansion
• Relocation of Hockey Rink
• Improvement to existing East Field
• Expansion of Tot Lot
• Pathway and Trail Improvement
• Inter -Park Traffic Control
Upon accomplishing the noted revisions, we understand the Master Plan Study will be presented to the
Park Board on Tuesday May 12, 2009 for their review and comment. If additional revisions are
necessary, they will be made by AJA.
We trust the Master Plan Study, although only a study and not a document for construction, will serve
you well as you progress through various necessary reviews. We, of course, remain ready to assist you in
that process as you may require.
It should be noted that a study for improvements and expansion of the existing park building is also being
conducted be another firm. The results of that study are not contained herein.
Ily yours,
— Johnson Associates, Inc.
Roy A. Edi erson, ASLA
C`2-
Ja ed C. Lee, ASLA
Enclosures: Master Plan Study (paper copy)
Master Plan Study (CD)
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OPPOSITION TO THE INSTALLATION OF 3 SCOREBOARDS AT PAMELA PARK
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