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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-08-12 Park Board Packet• • �A, wg tit` M 0 14 AGENDA Regular Meeting of the Edina Park Board Tuesday, August 12, 2008, 7:00 P.M. Edina City Hall Council Chambers 4801 West 50`" 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, June 10, 2008, Park Board Minutes. II. NEW BUSINESS: A. Braemar Golf Course Special Needs Program. B. *Public Hearing and Notification Policy. C. Mn/DOT Community Landscape Partnership Program. D. Artificial Turf vs. Natural Turf E. *Off -Leash Dog Park Proposal — Creek Valley Park. III. 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. 1 • IV. UPDATES FROM STAFF V. PARK BOARD COMMENTS VI. 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. 2 10 Memo To: Edina Park Board From: John Keprios, Director Edina Park and Recreation Department Date: July 28, 2008 Re: TUESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2008, PARK BOARD MEETING STAFF REPORT. Enclosed you should find the following items: 1. Tuesday, June 10, 2008, Park Board Minutes. 2. Tuesday, August 12, 2008, Park Board Agenda. 3. Athletic Field Comparison. 4. Projected (estimated) Usage of Natural Grass Fields vs. Synthetic Stadium Field (from AJA). 5. Projected (25 year) Stadium Field Cost Analysis (initial + maintenance) (from AJA). 6. Annual Maintenance/Operational Costs — Summary (from AJA). 7. Synthetic Turf Projects (AJA). 8. Report/Recommendation & Resolution for Landscape Partnership Program. 9. June 10, 2008 letter from Charlie White. 010. June 17, 2008 letter from Avelina Schneider. 11. HopeKids — A Letter to MRPA Members from John Keprios. 12. Off -Leash Dog Area Feasibility Study. 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, August 12, 2008, 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. Sister Kennv Rehabilitation Institute Golf Program at Braemar Golf Course Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Paige Safranski from the Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute and Braemar Golf Course Manager John Valliere will be present to give Park Board members an overview of the golf programs for golfers with physical disabilities, which is facilitated at Braemar Golf Course. • No formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. B. Public Hearing and Notification Policy Last month, the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association (MRPA) sent out the following request from me to all 600 professional park and recreation professional members of MRPA via email. The Edina Park Board is interested in establishing a written policy on conducting Public Hearings on park improvements. If you would be so kind, please forward any policy your organization may have in place regarding Public Hearings on park improvements. What park improvements require notification of neighbors? What are your notification policies regarding how many households around a park are mailed notices (500 feet, or 1,000 feet from the park, etc.)? If the current practice is simply an unwritten policy where you use your best judgment on a case by case basis, please let me know that too. You can submit your information to John Keprios at Jkeprios@ci.edina.mn.us Thank you very much! Here is the response from New Hope Parks and Recreation: John, in answer to your request above, NH has no formal policy. We invite neighbors to meetings if the improvements are significant and we want their help designing — esp. for new play equipment. Otherwise if it's a project just to improve trails, re -roof a facility, and the like we don't have neighborhood meetings. As for mailing lists — we just look at a map and see what makes sense. The letters always say to invite any others who may not have gotten a letter but have some interest (something to that effect). Here is the response from Chanhassen Parks and Recreation: Statutorily the council and planning commission conduct public hearing — we refer to the project review process at the park and recreation commission level as "neighborhood meetings". We don't have a policy but make it a practice of holding neighborhood meeting for projects of significant size or causing significant change or in cases where we want the neighborhood to work on the project (playground installations for example). We mail to a minimum of 500 feet but also include all households that would be considered to be a member of the parks "neighborhood" service area. If there is some doubt whether or not a project may cause a stir — we error on the side of bringing the neighborhood into a meeting. Here is the response from New Brighton Parks and Recreation: Yeah, New Brighton has no written policy for holding public hearings on park improvements. We basically use our best judgment. 2 ® When we think it may be controversial, at a minimum we have notify residents within a 350 feet radius from the park, often times it is much greater. When we have held public hearing without any notification, we have had no one in the audience. When we send out letters/postcards we get the "opposition or nay sayers". It is always a struggle, because it typically only has brought out the "NIMBY's. In most cases we did not have to notify the public, but we wanted to get their input. We have also notified residents of something we are going to do in a park, but mainly so we do not get police calls (i.e.: prairie wildfire burn). Those three were the only responses to the request. I am not aware of any Park and Recreation Department in Minnesota with a formal Public Hearing policy. It appears as though the majority of Park and Recreation Departments simply rely on their best judgment to determine whether or not a neighborhood meeting or Public Hearing is needed. In the past, the Edina Park and Recreation Department has notified residents of park improvements in one or more of the following cases: 1. When the park improvement is knowingly or likely to be controversial. 2. When the park improvement involves a significant change in the way the park • is used or programmed. 3. When neighborhood input is sought as part of the planning process. The process that we have used for the past several years for replacing playground equipment is to form a small committee of neighboring residents to assist with the design process. Committees have varied in size but our experience has taught us that the smaller committees are more effective and efficient. These neighborhood committees visit various playground equipment sites throughout Edina and some times other communities as well. They look through catalogues of current playground equipment and also listen to presentations from various playground equipment vendors. In the end, the committee chooses the manufacturer and the design. Additional criterion to add to the list could include: 4. Any park improvement large enough in scale that residents would like to simply be informed about the project before construction or demolition begins, even if the project does not fall into any of the other three categories. 5. If in doubt, staff will bring park improvement projects for the Park Board to decide whether or not it is necessary to notify residents and/or conduct a Public Hearing. As a matter of practice hereon, staff will inform the Park Board of park improvement • projects that, in our best judgment, residents should be notified of for either 3 information sake, for soliciting input or forming a committee, or for Public Hearing. That way, the Park Board can always make changes to staff's recommendations. I would prefer to not have a formal policy in place as there are too many variables to predict what they might be in the future. I'd prefer to leave it to staff's best judgment and give the Park Board an opportunity to make changes. For example, in some cases, 500 foot radius is an appropriate area for notification; however, another more controversial far reaching issue may call for a 1,000 foot radius. I believe it's best to deal with these on a case by case basis with the understanding that the Park Board will be informed of staff recommendations. Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. C. Mn/DOT Community Landscape Partnership Program Enclosed is a copy of the Report/Recommendation to the Mayor and City Council to approve Resolution #2008-64 (copy enclosed) to authorize application for the Mn/DOT Community Roadside Landscape Partnership Program at Highway 100 and 77th Street. Park Board member Joseph Hulbert has been instrumental in spear -heading this effort and is also recruiting volunteers to assist with the project. Mr. Hulbert will give the Park Board a brief overview of the project and welcome anyone who wishes to volunteer. No formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. D. Artificial Turf vs. Natural Turf At the June 2008 Park Board meeting, a request was made to give the Park Board a presentation on the pros and cons of artificial turf vs. natural turf. The Park Board is being asked to consider development of artificial turf fields on one or more City of Edina owned athletic fields in the future. Hopefully this overview will help the Park Board make informed decisions when considering artificial turf proposed for future park improvement projects. I have directed Assistant Director Ed MacHolda to study the topic and present his findings to the Park Board at the August meeting. For background information, the following documents are enclosed: • Athletic Field Comparison (created by Ed MacHolda). • Projected (estimated) Usage of Natural Grass Fields vs. Synthetic Stadium Field (from AJA). • Projected (25 year) Stadium Field Cost Analysis (initial + maintenance) (from AJA). • Annual Maintenance/Operational Costs — Summary (from AJA). • Synthetic Turf Projects (AJA). Ed MacHolda will give a brief presentation on his findings. No formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. C! E. Off -Leash Dog Park Proposal — Creek Valley Park Staff recommends that the Park Board consider conducting a Public Hearing on the concept of using the hockey rink at Creek Valley Park during spring, summer and fall as an off -leash dog park for small dogs only (must be 20 pounds or less). I have received several requests for the development of a small dog park somewhere in an Edina park. Several dog owners who have used the Van Valkenburg Park off -leash dog park have found that their small dogs are intimidated and in some cases endangered by larger dogs using the off -leash site. Some dog owners will no longer use the Van Valkenburg Park site for that reason. In the 2006 Community Attitude and Interest Citizen Survey (Needs Assessment Survey), results showed that 5,480 households (26% of all households) have a need for an off -leash dog park. When asked what four parks and recreation facilities (out of 27 listed) are most important to their household, an off -leash dog park rated 6 1 highest out of 27. 13% of households ranked off -leash dog parks as one of their most important parks and recreation facility. The national benchmark is 11 %. When asked how well parks and recreation facilities in the City of Edina meet the needs of their households, 25% stated that their off -leash dog park needs were met 100%; 17% stated that their off -leash dog park needs were met 75%; 19% stated that their off -leash dog park needs were met only 50%; 18% stated that their needs were met only 25%; and 20% of households stated that their needs were met 0%. The survey also attempted to find out how supportive residents are of setting up specific times of the day and week where off -leash dogs could use City parks under supervision. The results were: 24% very supportive 19% somewhat supportive 19% not sure 36% not supportive 3% did not provide a response When asked how supportive households are to specific actions that could be taken by the City of Edina to improve and expand parks and recreation facilities, the idea of developing a new outdoor dog exercise park was rated as follows: 20% very supportive 27% somewhat supportive 40% no supportive 12% not sure The nationwide benchmark need of off -leash dog parks is 24%. Edina's is 26%. 0 Eden Prairie currently has four outdoor hockey rinks that are used as off -leash dog parks. I have visited their sites in the past with their former Park Director and learned and witnessed first hand that these hockey rink sites have been very successful in Eden Prairie. I believe that our survey data confirms there is need and support for off -leash dog park areas. This could be somewhat controversial among some neighbors who live nearest Creek Valley and therefore I recommend that we conduct a Public Hearing if the Park Board supports the concept enough to consider this opportunity. My recommendation is to limit the interior of the hockey rink to small dogs only; however, they must pay the resident off -leash dog park fee, which is only $25 per year. The annual fee would allow these small dogs access to both the Van Valkenburg Park off -leash site and the Creek Valley Park hockey rink. The Off -Leash Dog Area Feasibility Study is enclosed to give Park Board members more background information that shows the results of a previous study. As you will notice, the consultant suggests that Creek Valley has even more land that could be used as an off -leash dog area; however, that would require additional fencing and could be considered as another site in the future. I am proposing that we use only the inside of the hockey rink for small dogs only at this time. If approved, we would contract purchase and installation of a seasonal gate when used as an off -leash dog area. The cost would be minimal (less than $1,000). We would also install signs, a station for plastic bags and provide a trash receptacle. If successful, water could be provided at a later date. Therefore, I recommend that the Park Board approve conducting a Public Hearing on the concept of using the hockey rink at Creek Valley Park during spring, summer and fall as an off -leash dog park for small dogs only (must be 20 pounds or less) and that it be subject to the off -leash dog area license fee used for the Van Valkenburg Park off - leash dog area. I further recommend that the Public Hearing take place on Wednesday, September 10, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., which is the September Park Board meeting. The September Park Board meeting is on a Wednesday due to there being a Primary Election on Tuesday, September 9`h. I also recommend that we send notices to households within 1,000 feet of the hockey rink, which comes to 106 households. Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. III. PUBLIC COMMENTS As taken directly from the Agenda: 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. IV. UPDATES FROM STAFF Staff will give the Park Board verbal updates on status of current events (projects, programs, etc.). V. 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. 7 • Minutes of the Edina Park Board June 10, 2008 Edina City Hall, Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Joseph Hulbert, Rob Presthus, Randy Meyer, Howard Merriam, George Klus, Mike Damman, Dan Peterson, Jeff Sorem, Ray O'Connell, Todd Fronek, Carolyn Nelson STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Janet Canton, Ed MacHolda I. APPROVAL OF THE APRI L 8, 2008 PARK BOARD MINUTES George Klus MOVED TO APPROVE THE APRIL 8, 2008 PARK BOARD MINUTES. Dan Peterson SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED. II. NEW BUSINESS A. Countryside Park Master Plan - Mr. Fronek stated that a thank you goes out to Mr. Hulbert, Mr. Merriam, Mr. O'Connell, Mr. Johnson and Mr. Sorem for attending the Countryside Park meeting. He noted that the board members were put into different groups for discussions with the residents. Mr. Sorem indicated that after talking to the residents in his group he felt there were four main items. First, they want the hockey rink back. Second, there is no need for a walking path due to the fact that Bredesen Park is so close by. Third, they would like better signage for the parking lot that is shared by the church and lastly they really want to keep the tennis courts. Mr. Peterson noted he also was impressed with how passionate his group was for wanting to keep the tennis courts. He stated that he didn't feel there was a lot of interest in having a hockey rink. There was a reasonable amount of interest in having a small off -leash dog area. In addition, there was quite a bit of interest in trying to get parking off of Olinger and move it to the parking lot that the city already has. Mr. Merriam commented that he concurs with what has been said and was surprised at how many people want to see the tennis courts stay in the park. Mr. Hulbert noted that he was in the same group as Mr. Sorem and noted that the people really emphasized the desire to have the hockey rink back. He stated that his group liked the A and B concepts and looked at hybrids of both. He commented that a dog park was not quite as important in his group. Mr. O'Connell stated that he agrees with what has been said, they definitely want the hockey rink back. Mr. Keprios stated that he agrees with everything that has been said. He noted that the architects took notes that capture the sentiment of the people who expressed their opinions at the meeting (see attached). Mr. Keprios explained this is not something that's going to happen overnight. He pointed out that they will continue to provide a • skating area in the winter and that everything will stay just as they are until they get a plan in place that they can all buy into and get a master plan adopted. He stressed that they are also going to need to figure out how they are going to finance it whether it be through the capital plan and develop it in phases or take a more aggressive approach and solicit donations and/or pursue a referendum. Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that he is going to give the architects some direction to get to the next level and create a final master plan. He noted that at the August or September Park Board meeting he will have a final concept plan that will be a reflection of what they have heard the community wants. Mr. Klus asked Mr. Keprios if once he comes up with a preliminary plan will there be another work session with the neighborhood. Mr. Keprios replied he thinks once the Park Board has a plan they want to propose to the neighborhood he thinks it would be appropriate to hold a public hearing and would ask the City Council if that's how they would like it to be handled so that they are not duplicating efforts. B. 2009-2013 Capital Improvement Plan — Mr. Keprios went through the items he would like to see eliminated and the items he would like to see added to the 2009 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). _ Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that they recently learned that it is possible to develop a new athletic field at Pamela Park. Mr. Keprios explained that what he would propose that the Park Board do is hold a public hearing for all of the proposed projects for Pamela Park for the next five years and let the neighborhood have their say. He explained that this way it will help the Park Board decide if they are really going to plan for a quarter of a million dollars to have lights at the three softball fields. In addition, neighborhood input should be sought via a Public Hearing on plans for a new $400,000 athletic field with lights, expansion of parking lots, playground equipment replacement and all other CIP projects proposed for Pamela Park. Mr. Fronek entertained a motion to approve the CIP as laid out on the proposed changes to the revised five year CIP. Mr. Klus replied that he would like to make that motion with the caveat that each time projects come up on the CIP that a public hearing is held with the neighbors prior to the project so that the neighborhood can give their feedback. George Klus MOVED TO APPROVE THE REVISED CIP WITH THE STIPULATION THAT THERE WOULD BE PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR EACH ITEM ON THE CIP BEFORE INITIATING THE PROJECTS. Mr. Klus commented that he thinks it has to be on each item because he thinks they learned a lesson from trying to put fencing at Pamela Park this time and the neighbors • were very concerned. 2 • Mr. Meyer asked what is the requirement in order for a public hearing to be held, what is generally the rule of thumb? Mr. Keprios replied there really is no written rule or standing policy; however, they try to use their best judgment and anticipate what they believe to be controversial. Mr. Keprios pointed out that he did not foresee the fencing at Pamela Park to become a controversial issue like it was. He stated that had he seen that coming, he definitely would have called for a public hearing. Mr. Keprios indicated that he doesn't know if there needs to be a public hearing for a batting cage or for the natural resources inventory or for the replacement windows at Arneson Acres. Mr. Keprios noted that if there's an item that's going to affect the neighborhood at all then they need to inform them. Mr. Klus responded that the batting cages are part of the whole Pamela Park public hearing process. He commented that on some of the smaller items there may be some people in the community who might want to give some input on what's looked at and stated that he thinks it's important to at least open that up to a public hearing to let those people give their input. Ray O'Connell SECONDED THE MOTION. Mr. O'Connell stated that he would like to CALL THE QUESTION. Mr. Damman stated that he doesn't agree that the Park Board mandate that. He indicated that the staff is intelligent enough to know when it's needed. Mr. Klus replied that he is not questioning the intelligence of the staff but rather is trying to • take a more proactive stance by letting the community know that we do want them to be part of the process. Mr. Merriam commented that he thinks this really deserves an entire agenda item discussion because they need to look at the whole idea of what requires a public hearing and what doesn't. Mr. Merriam stated that he thinks it needs to be a staff decision until they can come up with some kind of a tripping mechanism definition. Mr. Meyer noted that he thinks they need to do some research to understand what are other communities doing and what are their standards, so that they can compare. He commented that he would like to give staff the opportunity to do a little bit of their due diligence so that we are creating a policy that they can live by and the Park Board can support. Mr. Meyer suggested that they separate the motion to table or add to a future meeting a discussion about when public hearings are held on behalf of the Park Board and for now just look at the CIP. Mr. Presthus commented that he tends to side with trusting the staff because realistically, if they start holding a public hearing for every last little change nothing is going to get accomplished. He noted that he is for public hearings on the bigger issues. He stated that he tends to side with the last two comments that further information needs to be gathered on what's best for the city as far as being efficient and moving forward. Mr. Hulbert noted that he thinks Mr. Meyer stated it perfectly. He added that there is a reason why the city has a staff to make some of these discretionary calls as to what 3 • matters do need to have a public hearing. He noted that if they decide to do it they are going to need some sort of a tripping mechanism which might be too much to handle here. Mr. Fronek stated that he tends to agree with Mr. Hulbert. Mr. O'Connell WITHDREW HIS SECOND. MOTION DIED FOR A LACK OF A SECOND. Mr. Fronek entertained a new motion TO APPROVE THE REVISED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN. Howard Merriam MOVED TO APPROVE. Dan Peterson SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Mr. Fronek asked Mr. Keprios if he could provide some direction on how to handle public hearings in the future. Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board if they would entertain a motion or at least give a consensus to give staff the green light to call for a public hearing for all of the Pamela Park improvements this year. The Park Board unanimously agreed by consensus. C. Mission Statement — Mr. Keprios indicated that it would be helpful to know if the majority of the Park Board members agree with the new proposed language at least in • concept. Mr. Keprios explained that it has long been his view that parks and recreation serves a much greater purpose that better defines the value of the department's mission. Mr. Keprios stated that since he has sent this out he has heard some really good feedback from Park Board members and staff that they don't like the language "to sustain and improve the uncommonly high quality of life enjoyed by residents and businesses ....." Mr. Keprios explained that the comment that he is hearing is that it would be more appropriate to just eliminate "uncommonly high" and go with "quality of life". Mr. Keprios indicated that what's in the staff report is something that he would recommend making an amendment to take out the terminology "uncommonly high" and just say "improves the quality of life". Mr. Sorem suggested that he would like to see the word "uncommonly" removed but leave in "high". George Klus CALLED THE QUESTION. Mr. Fronek stated that they have a motion on the floor to remove the word "uncommonly" from the proposed mission statement. Mr. O'Connell indicated that he thinks "quality of life" can stand by itself and that "uncommonly high" is just awkward language. rd Mr. Fronek stated the motion on the floor to APPROVE THE MISSION STATEMENT AS IT READS REMOVING THE WORD "UNCOMMONLY" MOTION CARRIED. Ray O'Connell ABSTAINED. III. OLD BUSINESS A. Park Board Assignments — Mr. Keprios asked if everyone was comfortable with their park assignments to which it was noted yes. Mr. Fronek requested that each Park Board member know what is going on at their parks. B. Board and Commission Liaison Reports — Ray O'Connell — Mr. O'Connell gave an up-to-date report to the Park Board on the Community Education Services Board and the Energy and Environment Commission. IV. PUBLIC COMMENT A. Pamela Park Fence — Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that he has heard from a few neighbors who are not very happy with the black vinyl fence that was recently put in at Pamela Park. He commented that he didn't think there would be any controversy since he had not heard from anyone when they last put in fencing at Pamela Park on field #1. Mr. Keprios stated that it has been a learning lesson and that in the future this is something where he would definitely send out a notice to the neighborhood. Bruce Johnson, 4601 West 56`'' Street, informed the Park Board that he is the President of the Edina Girls Fast Pitch Association. He stated that he would like to applaud Park and Recreation and the City Council for doing what he thinks is the right thing not only for girl's fast pitch, but for the community and Park and Recreation as a whole. Mr. Johnson handed out pictures and stated that he doesn't think from an aesthetic perspective that it dramatically affects the aesthetics of the park. Mike Davis, 6512 Warren Avenue, informed the Park Board that he is a board member on the Edina Girls Fast Pitch Association and that he understands that the fences have changed the park a little bit and that they are permanent. He commented that he also understands that the residents of the park get a little possessive of the park and that possibly some of the activities that they normally would do there have changed. However, he feels the overall benefits to the community outweigh the small sacrifices that may have been made at the park. Mr. Klus stated that he knows that each of the athletic associations in the city are willing to work with the neighbors on any issue and even though the opponents did not attend tonight's meeting he would encourage the Girls Fast Pitch Association to try to work out any issues to see if there are things they can do to make the park what they hope it can be. 5 Mr. Davis suggested that when notices are sent out for neighborhood meetings he thinks the users of the parks should be informed as well. He stated that these are community parks and everyone should have input whether they are neighbors or users of the park. V. UPDATES FROM STAFF A. Hope Kids — Mr. Keprios complimented the Park Board on approving the Hope Kids special event at Edinborough Park. He noted that they had over 350 in attendance. VI. PARK BOARD COMMENTS A. Power Point Presentation for the Public - Mr. Meyer made a suggestion that earlier when they went through the Capital Improvement Plan they had a nice colored outline to look at, however, the public could not see it. Therefore, it would be great, if in the future if they could show a power point presentation or something like that so that people can see what we are looking at and discussing and give clarity as far as what is going on. Mr. Meyer commented that the Capital Improvement Plan really gives a nice snapshot of where the park system is going in the next few years and the spaces they plan to renovate or upgrade. B. Public Hearings - Mr. Meyer pointed out that he thinks in the next couple of months they need to have a discussion on when to hold public hearings. He stated that he • thinks staff needs to be clear on what the expectations are of the board. Mr. Meyer indicated that it may also make sense to incorporate the City Council at some point in those discussions and sort of frame that city wide on what we think of public hearings and when they are necessary. He stated that he does think they need to incorporate the public more in the process but at the same time they need to frame that so everyone is clear on what and when they are doing that. C. Artificial Turf Versus Real Grass - Mr. Peterson asked Mr. Keprios if sometime he could do a cost difference between artificial turf and real grass as well as is there an environmental reason why synthetic would be better than grass. Mr. Keprios replied he would be happy to provide that report. D. Thank You to Randy Meyer — Mr. Merriam wanted to publicly thank Randy Meyer for all of his hard work. He is a member of multiple boards and commissions and is a good role model for us. MEETING ADJOURNED. • 3 • 0 • w b U =' a W M 0 M ►C id b w 2 cl Projected (Estimated) Usage of Natural Grass Field vs. Synthetic Stadium Field (John Doe Field) _z�Y_A ANDERSON -JOHNSON ASSOCIATES, INC. 0 Natural Turf Field Synthetic Turf Field 2 months usage 9-12 month usage Physical Educ. None 140+ (daily) Football 15 games 15 games, 82 practices Soccer 18 games (Varsity) 32 games, practice Marching Band 1 comp., 1 practice 1 comp + 65 practice Dance team None 20 practice & performance Cheerleading None 20 practice Baseball None 14 practice Softball None 14 practice Track None 14 practice School Total 34 comp. + 1 practice PE + 48 comp. + 229 practice Community Use 2 events (max.) in late -Fall Summer soccer Fall football Spring lacrosse Spring rugby _z�Y_A ANDERSON -JOHNSON ASSOCIATES, INC. 0 & §\ f c� E )§ XI D \\ C) 0 /.\ ° ) W ±E /\ 0 (D §f 2K2 Q @7 ®% / \ Cl) f / \) \ « / // w§ _ u /0 0e 2 z \ ) \ - \ $ n .g p #2 k \y E \) /E c E / / { « / . E � 3 ~ / CD R $2 $\ w -i i _ f ƒ �\ ® \ cz \� q§ LU �\ q /ƒ E /\ w \ _ C S C (D - [ \/ ƒ i \ / m % § / F « D 0 ~ 0o /_ �� £\ = § °° p §� k� E d) @ z / o - \ \ c 7v 5 \\ % k \\ LO ~ \ CD _6\ �2 k S� c u \ � § \ E.E w R ® - P\ w = c / E o § \�& @ \ ® f} m £ 2 § 5 z ƒ E « > 4 G $ k e n 7 2 2 e -a) ob « w 0= ` ~ D U) - SER ) \ (n 2 \ /\ _ o ° 2 2 7 $.[ > w e a : a)£ a) + _ C/) % \ 0 U) U)\ / ANDERSON -JOHNSON ASSOCIATES, /. INC. _/- l-4NI)S('API'ARC'1l17'1TC'iZsRR S/71-PLANNING W1ea) PEP 1�4ILF. r ROAD Svirr200 AtINVF"APOLIS. .WVJS93T PAdWl ;944175fI ?11(763)544-171:0 THE COSTS BELOW ARE ESTIMATED ANNUAL MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONAL COSTS. Annual Maintenance/ Operational Costs - Summary Mowing - Beginning in May and continuing through Mid -October (-22 weeks), mowing should occur 2 times per week. Baseball/ Softball Fields: $4,000 per field per season. Football/ Soccer Fields: $4,000 per field per season. Stadium Field: $5,000 per field per season. 2. Aerification - Turf areas should be aerified (core drilling used for estimating) 2-5 times per year. Baseball/ Softball Fields: Football/ Soccer Fields: Stadium Field: $600 per field per season. $600 per field per season. $800 per field per season. Top Dressing - Turf areas should be top dressed, if needed, when aerification occurs. Where play is not as heavy, top dressing may not be necessary (to fill bare spots, low, compacted areas). Baseball/ Softball Fields: not required Football/ Soccer Fields: $4,000 per field per season. Stadium Field: $6,000 per field per season. 4. Over Seeding - Accomplished during aerification and top dressing operations. Again, where play is not heavy, over seeding may not be needed. Baseball/ Softball Fields: not required Football/ Soccer Fields: $500 per field per season. Stadium Field: $700 per field per season. 5. Fertilizing - Turf should be receive fertilizer 3-5 times per year. Baseball/ Softball Fields: $800 per field per season. Football/ Soccer Fields: $800 per field per season. Stadium Field: $1,200 per field per season. 6. Round -Up - To control growth of grass (against fencing, pavements, etc.). Baseball/ Softball Fields: $100 per field per season. Football/ Soccer Fields: $100 per field per season. Stadium Field: $200 per field per season. Broadleaf Weed Control - If needed, Baseball/ Softball Fields: Football/ Soccer Fields: Stadium Field: 1-2 applications should be sufficient. $100 per field per season. $100 per field per season. $200 per field per season. 8. Irrigation - Miscellaneous costs for general upkeep of the irrigation system (repair of sprinkler heads, etc.). Baseball/ Softball Fields: $300 per field per season. Football/ Soccer Fields: $300 per field per season. Stadium Field: $500 per field per season. 9. Water - Cost of water use (through irrigation). Well System: $700 per field per season. Domestic System: $2,700 per field per season. 10. Field Marking (Grass)- Depending on Community -use, fields will need to be marked certainly between mid-August through November (12 weeks) and late -March through early -June (11 weeks), at 2 applications per week. Baseball/ Softball Fields:. $1,000 per field per season. Football/ Soccer Fields: $1,500 per field per season. Stadium Field: $2,000 per field per season. Field Marking (Synthetic Turf) - Marking of seasonal (yard lines), if required, 2 times per year. Stadium Field: $2,000 per field per season. • 11. Cleaning - Removal of clippings, trash, etc. should be taken into account. Baseball/ Softball Fields: $100 per field per season. Football/ Soccer Fields: $100 per field per season. Stadium Field: $300 per field per season. 12. Pavement Sweeping - Cleaning sand, silt, trash, etc. from parking lots and drives. Per Site: $2,000 per site per year. 13. Aglime redressing - Leveling of aglime prior to games, following rain storms, and seaonally. Baseball/ Softball Fields: $500 per field per season. Shot Put Area: $100 per field per season. 14. Synthetic Turf Grooming - Removals of debris (sunflower seeds, gum, trash, etc.) Should be accomplished following each major event and seasonally. Stadium Field: $500 per field per season. 0 � A�,wow 4w.e A SYNTHETIC TURF PROJECTS Facility Year Constructed Turf System Breck School - Football/ Soccer/ Lacrosse Stadium Field 2003 Sprinturf Breck School - Ottawa Practice Field 2003 Sprinturf Edina Community Center - Kuhlman Stadium 2004 FieldTurf Edina High School Practice Field 2004 FieldTurf Eden Prairie High School Dome/Sports Facility 1997 SRI Astroturft''') Eden Prairie High School 2007(') ProGrass (4) Hopkins High School Stadium Field 2002 SRI Astroplay(') Hopkins High School Practice Field (w/future bubble) 2003 SRI Astroplay(') Irondale High School Stadium Field 2005 Sportexe Minnetonka High School Stadium Field (w/bubble) 2004 Sprinturf Minnetonka High School Baseball/ Practice Football Fields 2006(') FieldTurf Mounds View High School Stadium 2004 Sportexe Park High School Stadium 2007(') Sprinturf (4) Spring Lake Park High School 2006(') FieldTurf (4) St. Paul Humboldt High School Stadium Field 2007(') Sprinturf Southern MN State University - Marshall, MN 2007(') ProGrass University of Minnesota - Morris & Morris Public Schools Football Stadium 2006 FieldTurf (4) Wayzata Central Middle School Turf & Dome 2005 FieldTurf Known Proiects Completed by Others Cooper/ Armstrong High Schools - Robbinsdale 2006 FieldTurf (4) College of St. Thomas - St. Paul 2006 FieldTurf (4) Central High School - St. Paul 2003 Sprinturf Minneapolis Metrodome 2003 Field Turf St. John's University Football Field 2002 Sprinturf Winter Park - Vikings Training Center 2002 SRI Astroplay(') Notes: 1 SRI (Southwest Recreation Industries) went out of business early -Spring of 2004. 2 Currently under construction - to be complete late -Summer 2007 3 ' 1" Generation' turf system (does not have in -fill system, tufted carpet like the current synthetic turf ('3rd and 4ih Generation') systems. 4 Monofilament system (as opposed to "slit -film" carper fibers). New technology/ generation. • �91NA 0 e tt Cl) 0 • rNc�iaea ��9� REPORT/RECOMMENDATION To: Mayor Hovland and me ers of Agenda Item IV. C. the Edina City Council. From: John Keprios, Direct Consent Park & Recreation Department Information Only ❑ Date: July 15, 2008 Mgr. Recommends ❑ To HRA ❑ To Council Subject: Resolution #2008-64 to Authorize ❑ Motion Application for Mn/DOT ❑ Resolution Community Roadside ❑ Ordinance Landscape Partnership Program ❑ Discussion At Trunk Highway 100 & 77th St. RECOMMENDATION: Resolution to authorize application for the Community Roadside Landscaping Partnership Program for the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) State Project number 2733-969 at Trunk Highway 100 and 77th Street. INFO/BACKGROUND: Staff proposes that the Council approve the Resolution #2008-64 to grant authority to John Keprios, Director of Park and Recreation, to make formal application for the Community Roadside Landscaping Partnership Program administered by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) for three areas located on the southwest section of the interchange at Trunk Highway 100 and 77th Street. The preliminary landscape plan from Mn/DOT includes planting of 347 plants within and around the northeast area of the interchange at Trunk Highway 100 and 77th Street. As the plants mature, they will beautify the highway and create an attractive natural buffer between the residential homes and the interchange. • Current Mn/DOT protocol requires the City Council to first approve a Resolution to authorize a contact person to make formal application. If approved by Council, I will submit the formal application after which Mn/DOT will then draft a formal agreement to be approved by Council and signed by the Mayor and City Manager. Mn/DOT requires the City of Edina to serve as the purchasing agent for which for the City will be reimbursed for all material costs (trees, shrubs, woodchips, compost etc.) which Mn/DOT estimates to be approximately $16,378.28. Park Board member Joseph Hulbert has successfully recruited approximately 30 resident volunteers to assist with planting the trees and shrubs and watering them for a period of one year. There will be minimal expense to the City which includes our commitment to eradicate existing vegetation, prepare the soils for planting, provide a City -owned trailer mounted water tank onsite and fill the water tank for the first year of maintenance. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-64 AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR THE MN/DOT COMMUNITY ROADSIDE LANDSCAPING PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM OR MN/DOT STATE PROJECT NUMBER 2733-969 AT TRUNK HIGHWAY 100 AND 77TH STREET Be it resolved by the Edina City Council that the City of Edina act as sponsoring unit for the project identified as Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) State Project Number 2733-969 at Trunk Highway 100 and 77th Street to be conducted during the period August 15, 2008 through November 1, 2008. Be it further resolved that Director of Edina Park and Recreation Department, John Keprios, is hereby authorized to apply to the Minnesota Department of Transportation for funding of this project on behalf of the City of Edina. Attest Adopted this 15th day of July, 2008. Debra A. Mangen, City Clerk STATE OF MINNESOTA ) COUNTY OF HENNEPIN ) SS CITY OF EDINA ) CERTIFICATE OF CITY CLERK James B. Hovland, Mayor I, the undersigned duly appointed and acting City Clerk for the City of Edina do hereby certify that the attached and foregoing Resolution is a true and correct copy of the Resolution duly adopted by the Edina City Council at its regular meeting of July 15, and as recorded in the Minutes of said regular meeting. WITNESS, my hand and seal of said City this day of Debra A. Mangen, City Clerk June 10, 2008 John Keprios, 0 Director of Parks & Recreation Dear Mr. Keprios: Having lived in Edina for over 20 years, and having been a golfer for 40 of my 54 years, I have come to appreciate the Braemar golf facilities, the regulation 27 holes, the Executive course, and especially the practice range, since it is a short 3 minute drive from where I work on Cahill road. I am writing you because I heard a rumor that the practice range may be undergoing a face lift / modernization / remodel and I would like to go on record as supporting such an effort, not only from my perspective as an avid golfer and supporter of Braemar (in 2007 1 spent over $1,000 — mostly on the practice range and some playing the regulation course), but because of my unique status as a Nationally ranked Long Driver. I have been competing in Long Drive competitions for the past 18 months, and was fortunate enough to qualify for the ReMax World Long Drive Finals last Fall, held in Mesquite Nevada (just outside Vegas). I would like to give you a little information on my efforts which will help explain why I am writing you this letter. There are 15,000 participants in Long Driving around the world, competing in five divisions; Open Division, Senior Division (age 45-52), Super Senior (age 53-61), Grand Champions (63+), and the women's division. The objective of this sport is to win one of the several hundred local competitions around the world which qualifies you to participate in one of 12 regional finals. By doing well at Regionals, you then qualify for the World Finals and if you progress through all of • the elimination rounds, and become one of the final four competitors, you then become part of the ESPN telecast and participate in $600,000 in prize money — most of which goes to the younger guys. In my division, Super Seniors, I was one of 48 from around the world to qualify for the World Finals, and it was an unbelievable experience! I finished 38th out of 48 — which, I was told, was a pretty good showing for my first visit to the World Finals. Thus, my plan is to continue practicing and try to make a return visit to the world finals. Being new to this sport, I have learned quite a bit. For example, I learned that in my age group, you have to have a swing speed of about 125-130 mph. to be competitive (for reference Tiger Woods normally swings at 125 mph. and the average PGA pro swings at about 112 mph). You also have to have a good handle on your nerves, because hitting in front of a big gallery at the World Finals can really get the heart beating. There are guys who get so nervous they can't put the ball on the tee. When I am at the Braemar practice range with my portable swing speed radar unit and swinging between 125-135 mph, my drives are routinely carrying 300-330 yards. When my drives go straight (not always — but that's why I need the practice) it is a great feeling and I frequently have people stop to watch me at the range. The problem this presents is that I am able to bounce drives off the top of the maintenance shed on the far end of the range, land drives on the second tee of the Executive Course, and hit balls into and over group lessons, and this is hitting from the mats. When the hitting stalls are moved forward to allow hitting off the grass, or when there is a tailwind, the problem becomes even greater. I make a very concerted effort not to hit when I feel I may put someone in harm's way, but even so, three times this year, I have been asked by Braemar staff to cease hitting. So I now have a dilemma — where can I practice? For the last several weeks, when I drive up to the practice facility, I look to see if there are any lessons being given on the far end of the range. If there are, I turn around and don't even get out of my car. Normally, I have time to hit after work, but unfortunately, this coincides with all of the group lessons. I have also tried visiting the range during the lunch hour, but all it takes is for there to be one lesson in session, and I'm out of luck. So at the moment, I'm a long driver with nowhere to practice, and thus my delight / hope in hearing that the practice range might be extended. I have no idea if I am the only one at Braemar with this problem, but I would venture a guess, that with the recent advances in club technology, and ball design, the length of the current practice range may no longer be adequate to accommodate today's longer hitters. I certainly understand that my situation is unique, but none the less, as an Edina resident, I thought providing some input in favor of the range expansion was worth a letter. There are only two viable alternatives for me. One is to drive 20 minutes to "Golf Zone" in Chaska. I've done this a couple of times, but while they don't have any human hazards at the end of their range, at about 290 yards the range becomes a swamp, and I have decided it's not fair to them, for me to be driving perfectly good practice balls into the swamp, and gas money is also starting to be a concern. The other alternative is to wait until there is a strong North wind, and then I can hit at Braemar, into the wind, and not jeopardize anyone at the end of the range. Again, I hope there is some truth to the rumor I heard about work being done on the range, and I would like to express my strong support. Thanks for lending an ear, and please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding this letter. Cordially, Charlie White 5300 Highwood Drive Is Edina, MN 55436 H: 952-933-4990 C: 612-701-5461 PS: By the way, if you ever want an unfair advantage in a scramble event, invite a Long Driver to play in your foursome! Paste this into your web browser to see one of the young guys at the Long Drive finals. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdjhA2_AYpY Avelina T. Schneider 6115 Lincoln Drive #244 Edina, Minnesota 55436 City of Edina Animal Control Attn: Tim Hunter Parks and Recreation Attn: John Keprios Dear Sirs: June 17, 2008 I read with interest the article about Edina's Dog Park in the Summer 2008 Park & Recreation Insider. I have a 6 -month old Miniature Long Haired Dachshund. I took him to the park in late April when he was nearly 5 months old. He was attacked by a very large dog (joined by 3 others) whose owner was very slow in responding to what might have turned into a tragedy. I will not take my dog to the park again. He was terrified. I do take him to Walnut Park. He loves it there. I take him to other Edina parks as well • and he likes them all. In the article, it says that Eden Prairie has four dog park areas that are used for hockey rinks during winter months. My question is: could the City of Edina make some of our hockey rinks available for off -leash (small) dog playing? I have at least five friends who live in condominiums and have small dogs. We would greatly appreciate one or more off leash areas where we would feel safe taking our dogs. Any accommodation would be gratefully received. Sincerely, In Appreciation To MRPA Members MRPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS The MRPA Board of Directors has been working diligently throughout early 2008 to serve the parks and recreation membership. A few action item highlights include: MRPA Office Lease MRPA's current office lease runs through August 2009, with an option for a five-year extension by providing written notice to Anoka County. The MRPA Board of Directors approved the submission of a letter to Anoka County to express our interest in extending the office lease through August 2014. Constitutional Amendment The MRPA Board of Directors approved a $25,000 contribution to the Vote Yes Minnesota campaign with the funds coming from MRPA's financial reserves/investment portfolio. The $25,000 withdrawal from the financial reserves/investment portfolio will be replenished/repaid over a five-year period. A revenue program to align to this repayment plan will be discussed during the Board's 2009 budget meetings. See the legislative article on Page 1 for more constitutional amendment information. MRPAAudit MRPA auditing firm, KDV, presented the 2007 audit during the May 23 Board meeting. Overall, cash balances declined compared to the previous year primarily due to more expenses. The auditors made recommendations for management procedures, such as how to collect funds from past due accounts. The financial analysis shows MRPA support and revenue for 2007 was generated as follows: program service fees (76%); membership dues (10%); sponsorships (7%); and LCMR grant reimbursements (7%). The financial analysis shows MRPA expenses for 2007 were categorized as follows: program services (88%); management and general (11%); and fundraising (1%). The financial information is also shared with the membership each year during the MRPA Annual General Meeting. member connection Page 3 HopeKids - A Letter to MRPA Members from John Keprios, Director, Edina Park and Recreation Dear Fellow Park Professionals: I have a successful, rewarding and heart-warming event to share with you in hopes that you and your community will consider providing the same opportunity for some very special and amazing kids. It is for an organization called HopeKids. On Friday, May 30, 2008, the City of Edina provided to HopeKids free of charge exclusive use of Edinborough Park, Edina's one acre indoor park with an indoor playground (Adventure Peak), swimming pool, track, Great Hall and amphitheater. Over 350 family members attended the event that evening from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. I encourage you to check out their website at www.hopekids.org. On their website you will see that.... HopeKids provides ongoing events & activities and a powerful, unique support community for children with cancer and other life-threatening medical conditions. We surround these remarkable children and their families with the message that hope can be a powerful medicine. "There is no medicine like hope, no incentive so great, and no tonic so powerful as the expectation of something tomorrow." - Orison Swett Marden The event at Edinborough Park was a huge success. The HopeKids organization provided all the food and beverages for those who attended. With the help of students from the University of Minnesota, HopeKids provided all extra volunteer help needed for the event. As you can see from the photos, there were a lot of smiling faces. Park and Recreation agencies throughout the Twin Cities can play a big role in helping HopeKids in their mission if we all do our part. The Edina Park Board is proud to have voted unanimously to support this event for these incredible kids. I encourage you to please contact HopeKids Executive Director, Josh Taylor, and tell him that your community is interested in hosting a special event in your community for HopeKids. Josh's contact information is: Josh Taylor, Exec. Director HopeKids - Minneapolis/St. Paul "Restoring Hope. Transforming Lives." P.O. Box 240721, Apple Valley, MN, 55124 Telephone: (612) 345-0933 Email: josh@hopekids.org/Website: www.hopekids.org HopeKids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Thank you in advance for considering hosting a special event for these kids. These families are extremely grateful and need our help. Thank you! John Keprios, Director Edina Park and Recreation Department • k� Off -Leash Dog Area Feasibility Study Ingraham & Associates was hired by the City of Edina to evaluate locations within the City for a potential off -leash dog area. As part of the study process meetings were held with the Edina Animal Control Officer, Braemar Golf Course staff and Edina Park staff. Site visits were made to city park and open space sites and cities and counties that operate off -leash dog park areas were contacted. The following is background information, a site -by -site comparison and our recommendations. Introduction and Background Information What is an off -leash dog area? An off -leash dog area is a defined area where dogs are allowed to play and walk off - leash. Dog areas or dog parks are designed to allow an exercise area for dogs and act as a social area for pet owners. Current city regulations require dogs to be on a leash or within a fenced yard. Off -leash dog areas can be controversial as there are perceptions of problems (noise, traffic, pet waste) from adjacent property owners and potential displacement of other recreational uses. Site selection is the key to a successful off -leash dog area/park. Dog areas/parks can also be established on a temporary basis with a periodic review to determine their suitability and performance. The dog area/park can be open to the public or can be open only to permit holders. The advantage of a permit -only system is to allow better communication with area users. The disadvantage of permit -only use is the administrative requirements for the city and the dog owner and the enforcement requirement for the city to check for valid permits. No cities or counties in Minnesota restrict use of their dog areas to residents only. Why have an off -leash dog area? There are an estimated 7,000-8,000 dogs in Edina. Approximately 6,000 households in Edina have dogs (28% of the city population). Few of these people have property large • enough to allow a dog to get significant exercise. As awareness of other communities' off -leash dog exercise areas increases, citizens are asking for a local off -leash dog area. Ingraham & Associates Inc. 1 City of Edina — Dog Area Feasibility Study 4/03/01 Off -leash dog areas/parks provide an area for dogs to run. Some people currently use city parks, golf courses and school property to let their dog run off -leash. This is in violation of city regulations that require dogs to be on a leash or within a fenced yard area. The City Animal Control Officer issues warning and citations for violations of the leash and pick-up regulations. Citizens ask, "Where can I let my dog run off -leash?" There is a demand for off -leash areas. Where are existing off -leash dog areas/parks located? Off -leash dog parks are relatively new to Minnesota. There are off -leash dog areas/parks in Bloomington, Hennepin Parks, Ramsey County, and St. Paul. Several metro area cities are currently considering dog exercise areas. The City of Minneapolis is proposing to locate several dog parks in existing parks and on city lands. One proposed site is an off - leash dog area on Minneapolis Water Works land next to Weber Park in the northeast corner of Edina. The site is designed to serve Minneapolis residents, but it would also serve some St. Louis Park and Edina residents. From Edina's perspective it is not the most convenient location. What are the maintenance and enforcement requirements for an off -leash dog area? Dog areas/parks are relatively low maintenance. The level of maintenance is similar or lower than a typical public park. Emptying trash containers and periodic mowing are the main maintenance activities. Pet owners pick up dog waste and place it in trash containers. Operating experience in Minnesota shows that there are few issues, and the enforcement requirements are low. What are the costs of building a dog park? Constructions costs depend upon the site characteristics. Costs can range from less than $10,000 to close to $50,000 depending upon the amount of fencing and the need for a parking lot. Smaller sites will need to be fenced. If the site does not have parking, a parking lot would have to be built. Other expenses are signs and a picnic table. What are the attributes of a good off -leash dog area? ➢ A large enough area to allow dogs to obtain exercise (+ 2.5 acres is desirable). ➢ A flat open area of at least one acre. ➢ Suitable buffers or separation from adjacent uses (similar to other public park uses). ➢ Good visibility and access. ➢ Adequate parking (15-20 spaces). ➢ A fenced area or other suitable boundaries. ➢ An involved citizen group to help set up and operate the park. ➢ Other desirable, but not essential features such restrooms and a drinking water supply. �o Ingraham & Associates Inc. 2 City of Edina — Dog Area Feasibility Study 4/03/01 ® Candidate Site Evaluation Due to the developed nature of the city there are few options for suitable off -leash dog areas. Based on discussions with city staff and an evaluation of city land, the following sites were evaluated as potential off -leash dog areas: See the attached map for site locations. Creek Valley Park - The north portion of the park next to Highway 62. Braemar Park - The southwest corner of the park, south of the arena and within the Public Works outside storage area. Walnut Ridge Park - The central area of the park, within the loop trail. Van Valkenburg Park - The lower area near the pond in the northwest corner of the park. Located between the parking area and Lincoln Drive. See the attached maps of each site showing potential dog area locations. Site Evaluation Ingraham & Associates Inc. 3 City of Edina — Dog Area Feasibility Study 4/03/01 Creek Valley Braemar Park Walnut Van Park Ridge Park Valkenburg Park Site size 2.3 - 4.6 acres 3.5 acres 3 to 4 acres 1.7 acres (approx.) Open flat area NO POTENTIALLY YES NO Neighborhood GOOD POTENTIALLY FAIR GOOD compatibility GOOD Access and GOOD GOOD FAIR GOOD visibility Displacement NONE SOME SOME NONE of existing activities Existing SOME NONE NONE SOME fencing/barriers EXISTING Existing YES YES YES YES parking Fencing #1 = 1,100 ft. 1,400 feet 1,400 feet 800 feet required and #1 = $11,000 $14,000 $14,000 $8,000 estimated cost #2 =1,900 ft. #2 = $19,000 Ingraham & Associates Inc. 3 City of Edina — Dog Area Feasibility Study 4/03/01 • Recommendation The site evaluation shows that there is no one ideal location for an off -leash dog exercise area in Edina. The Creek Valley site has the best combination of features, but is an irregular site with little flat area. It has existing parking, is very visible, has convenient access and is compatible with adjacent land uses (Hwy 62, the park and school). The primary drawback is the small site size and lack of flat open terrain. Two options exist in Creek Valley Park: #1. A linear area along the north edge of the park. The area outside the hockey and skating area is 2.3 acres and is primarily rolling terrain. The water tower would be inside the dog exercise area. #2. An area located around the hockey rink and open skating rink. The area could function as a dog exercise area in the spring, summer and fall and a skating area in the winter. Dog areas are typically used in the winter so some signage, management and enforcement may be needed to prevent conflicts and dog use in the winter. Areas # 1 and #2 could be combined during the summer. The Braemar/Public Works site has the potential to be a suitable site, but it requires extensive grading, fencing and reconfiguration of the public works open storage area. The area south of Braemar Boulevard would need re -grading and a fence would be required between the public works driveway, golf course and nature trail to the east and public works storage area to the south. The dog park area could be constructed as part of a re -configuration and aesthetic upgrade of the public work storage area. This area is also contemplated for a regional police and fire training facility. There would not be room for the training facility, dog exercise area and the public works open storage area. Walnut Ridge Park has an area in the center of the park that is suitable for dog use. The central area of the park is not used for active or programmed recreational uses. The low wet soils make turf management and active recreation use (i.e. ball fields, soccer, etc.) difficult. It would require a fence around the inside of the loop trail. The biggest drawbacks of this site are the somewhat hidden access to the neighborhood park and the location within a developed residential neighborhood. The dog use area would be approximately 200 feet from the nearest home. The northwest corner of Van Valkenburg Park has an area around a small pond that is somewhat suitable for dog use. The area is small and slopes toward the pond, but is not used for any other recreational uses. The area is located between the lower parking area and Lincoln Drive. Ingraham & Associates Inc. 4 City of Edina — Dog Area Feasibility Study 4/03/01 �wi t I N G R A H A M ASS 0 ( I A TES P N A 'O .a LL O m� N G C Q C p o CO N a C6 Cu LL N O L 002 J .0 7 N eR LL O c N LD C Q _C p O 0O C N Ma C6 LLJ N O L '+ (L0 0U2 1 .1 • ` CO) Y a C - J +-' � C W �I H cu r a H En 15 -F--) 1 T" �. • J 1v • O h wM C � N 4)cc LL '0 C N a� _c 0 _c CD N "a C0 W N O L J Z, L- U2 Nokf« BRA6M�x PR7GNA v 0 A Q i T � ov.KiC 3 Q sP► V PO NTIAL SITE f � i��E BC111.p� �1 Braemar Park Site Off -Leash Dog Area Feasibility Study City of Edina, Minnesota March 28, 2001 Planners & Landscape Architects (612) 377-2500 0 C xcomoms m xama are nod g to set an example for their kids by working to protect the Earth. A sign showing that the Joneses' yard is pesticide free. Julie McMahon Jones is head of the EcoMom Alliance of Minnesota Playtime is learning time. Seven-year-old Marissa Dulas, 6-year-oldlaly Jones and 4 -year-old Erik Heigeson watched a toad in his toad house out- side a tepee made from branches from a felled tree in the Joneses'back yard. In the background were Jan Helgeson, left, and Julie McMahon Jones. FOR THE CHILDREN By MARY JANE SMETANKA smetan@startribune.com ulie McMahon Jones greets vis- itors at the door of her Edina home, waving her hands to stop a guest from removing her rain - soaked shoes. "No, no, no. This is a shoes - on house," she said. "Have you ever stepped on a Lego?" She's barefoot herself, padding through the living room to fetch some wine. `Are you a red or a white girl?" she asks. Women cradling glasses gather on sofas surround- inv a rnffeP table that holds hnwls of chins and M&Ms and books with titles such as "This is My Planet:' Welcome to an EcoMom Alliance party, the earnest 21st century descendant of the Tupperware party. The EcoMoms are a fast-growing orga- nization of mostly stay-at-home mothers who are tackling such issues as pollution and sustainability in their communities. Started barely 18 months ago by a mother in California, the group's website now claims 11,000 members around the world. Jones, the mother of children ages 3, 6 and 8, is an EcoMom community lead- er. Using EcoMom parties, she is forg- ing ahead with an anvirnnmPntal auPntla that was in full swing before she found the group. An EcoMom banner hangs from a table in her living room proclaiming: "Sus- tain your home, sustain your planet, sustain your self. "I've always been an organic shop- per with a chemical -free home, so when I launched my son to school it was hard," Jones said. "Sure enough, he was exposed to pesticide lawns, tables that are cleaned with bleach and junky food. "If Edina is so proud of being innovative and progressive, they need to get with it." Moms continues: She wants Edina to consid- Pr altc+rnntivac fn rliamirnle nn errnce RK ► EcoMom Alliance : For the children MOMS FROM Iii Jones and another mom at Highlands Elementary School won an $8,500 grant from a consortium of waste manage- ment firms for a pilot program to make four classrooms no - waste environments. She has collected 300 signatures on a petition that calls on Edina°s parks and schools to consider organic alternatives to weed killers. "I have the urgency from my 8 -year-old sensitive son, who comes home from school and says, `Mom, did you know polar bears swim for days and then drown?"' she said. "When you have kids with these big feelings, you have to do something about it." Getting organized EcoMom parties are meant to be fun, with wine and treats. Last week, nine women gath- ered at Jones' house, most of them full-time mothers. About half were relative newcomers from places such as Colorado and Washington, D.C. The conversation was up- beat when it centered on sub- jects like connecting kids to nature and organic lawn care. Jones said her kids love natu- ral back -yard play features in- cluding a tepee made of ever- green'branches. But the environmental fo- cus inevitably led to weighti- er conversation, and near the end of the party the mood grew darker. Moms expressed exasperation with kids in the same house who text each other instead of talking. They worried about boys playing soccer on fields that they said {t I'M A REALIST; I DON'T THINK I'M GOING TO SOLVE GLOBAL WARMING. BUT —I FIND IT VERY ENERGIZING.)) Julie McMahon Jones, leader of the Eco - Mom Alliance of Minnesota reeked of chemicals. And they agonized over a world that sometimes seems to be spin- ning out of control. "Every piece of plastic I've ever used on this planet is still here," said Michelle Liem, mentioning a bigger-than-Tex- as igger-thanTexas mass of mostly plastic gar- bage in the Pacific Ocean, Joni Bennett, an Edina City Council member whom Jones invited to the meeting, said she worries about "scared and hopeless" high school kids who wonder what kind of world they're inheriting. "I don't know why people don't feel the urgency," said Ellen Dryden. "We have to be more mindful of our resourc- es. We could empower our youth." But they're doing what they can. Karen Heine, troubled by the exhaust spewing from idling cars and buses outside Highland, printed up a pol- lution fact sheet headlined "Please Turn Off Your En- gine." She keeps them in the car and last year passed out 235 copies. The school has put up "no -idling zone" signs. Heine has declared two weeks in August as no -car time for her family. Her hus- band drives to work, but Heine and her kids bike or walk everywhere Dryden, feeling guilty about all the driving she was doing to get her kids to events, keeps books and computer games in the car to pass time between appointments rather than making wasteful trips home. Her appliances are on pow- er strips that she can turn off at night, to stop passive con- sumption of electricity. Jones forgot her reuseable bags on a recent trip to Target, and stunned a cashier when she and the kids tottered out of the store, arms laden with unbagged goods. At the meeting, Jones and Dryden discovered that both their families had pledged not to buy anything new but essentials for a year. When TO FIND OUT MORE k For more information about the EcoMom Alliance, go to www ecomomalliance.org. • For Julie McMahon Jones' Minnesota EcoMom Alliance page, go to mommytsunanu-wordpress.com - _-. Dryden's kids wanted to catch tadpoles but had no usable net, they got out a kitchen strainer instead. Jones saves water in a rain barrel. Recy- cling and composting has re- duced the family's weekly gar- bage to half a bag. "Can you imagine if every- one did it?" she asked. "The time is now. I feel the momen- tuin:> AnuphMbattle But is Edina really ready for parkland covered in dan- delions? The school district stopped using weed killers on its property for 15 years, but resumed recently after par- ents complained that sparse grass made playing fields hard and after some residents said school grounds looked shabby.. Jones makes her case at events such as the city's En- ergy Fair and by e-mail to a growing network of mothers. She said she generally gets a good reception, though "some people look at you like you have three heads.... Some peo- ple are very attached to their Escalade, and you have to take them along on baby steps." After her children go to bed, Jones usually spends an hour online on EcoMom busi- ness. She has an EcoMom Facebook page, and has found fledgling EcoMom groups in St. Paul and Burnsville. "I'm a realist; I don't think I'm going to solve global warning," Jones said. "But... I find it very energizing. And I need that diversion from `mommy.' All the EcoMoms have confessed that. "It's good for the Earth, but it's also good for our sanity. You just can't talk about Bar- ney all day. You just can't." Mary lane Smetanka - 612-673-737 T)e&K Jb YL Yt- T�lll.Y1 VVIUCh UI r, ,v Q.l lomYl9 Fio�PUdSu1� hOUe put eve nirU� ab �tinLrovo� � �py��, W -V �jb,s �(L�Qh1?�.hc�1S.�.iILQ Ifrnl�S�.�`2.5 1LV1� 0f�aaV���lLsl'�5�1'L4 Y-�ds o�c we a C -Q- TJ bov AKat 0 a F tv r2Eed ie� fha�� taus �,o�r;��%�✓;.;ic��%7 F�� ajelo Yom. rale, //7,,, 9 had- 10 �z u�v?�r��✓#d 111ve- cliov.,bIly o lrI10Lr74 Un the /e2 f �Z c'Q a12, rl, /d1c /1110 17dIJ 11 e% 1• er/r� Jyc'Q�� , he Lia /// l yml�G /� hew e„�ne�.d /efts he wao able /Z7 lhar),t ca.ac�' • 0 j fes' � S M M4)(h 46 ru-n��� Pik Sister Kenny 25th Anniversary Golf Tournament Support Opportunities The Sister Kenny Golf Program for Individuals with Physical Disabilities is nationally recognized by the LPGA and USGA as a leader in the areas of adaptive techniques, instruction and education. Over 150 golfers are involved with the program each summer at Braemar Golf Course in Edina, MN. www.sisterkennyinstitate.com/golf Hole -In -One Sponsor $2,500 ($2,000 tax deductible) Includes signage in the registration area and on one hole of the 18 -hole course, mention from the podium during awards luncheon, full page advertisement in event program, inclusion on the list of sponsors in the program and the 2008 Sister Kenny Foundation Annual Report, registration for four golfers to participate in the 18 -hole tournament and awards luncheon. Eagle Sponsor $1,000($750 tax deductible) Includes signage on one hole of the 18 -hole course, mention from the podium during awards luncheon, inclusion on the list of sponsors in the event program, half page advertisement in event program, registration for two golfers to participate in the 18 -hole tournament and awards luncheon. Birdie Sponsor $ 750 ($500 tax deductible) Includes signage on one hole of the 18 -hole course, inclusion on the list of sponsors in the event program, registration for two golfers to participate in the 18 -hole tournament and awards luncheon. Par Sponsor $ 500 ($360 tax deductible) Includes signage on one hole on executive 9 -hole course, inclusion on the list of sponsors in the event program, registration for two golfers to participate in the 9 -hole tournament and awards luncheon. Caddie Donation $ Donation Amount is fully tax deductible. Questions? Please contact Paige Safranski at (612) 863-5712 ext. 2 or paige-.safranski@allina.com Company Name Contact Name Street Address City E-mail Method of payment (check one) ❑ Check payable to Sister Kenny Foundation or ❑ Visa ❑ MasterCard ❑ Discover Credit Card Number Signature as it appears on card Contact Phone State Zip ❑ American Express Please mail registration to: Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute 800 E 28`h St, Mail Route 12213 Minneapolis, MN 55407 Exp. Date C. Cornelia Neighborhood Tree Planting Project September 13th, 2008 8 am- 12 noon Through a program called the Mn/DOT Community Landscape Partnership Program I was granted approval for a neighborhood tree planting project. The landscape plan includes about 70 trees and 250 shrubs. I will need a group of volunteers to help dig a few holes and plant some trees. It should only take a few hours and I REALLY need your help planting. The area we will be planting is big enough, that eventually it will help reduce the noise and pollution that comes from the highway. It will no doubt immediately be an aesthetic improvement for travelers and homeowners. We will be planting near the intersection of HWY 100 and 77h Street. The plan is for 3 locations in the NE quadrant of the interchange. You can park at the vacant lot on the north side of 77th, just to the east of HWY100. This is about 100 ft. from where we will be planting. You will need a pair of work gloves and a shovel if you have one. If you have a steel rake or pitchfork it would be helpful. You may want to put your name in permanent marker on each. If you have access to a Bobcat w/ auger attachment please call me. Every time you drive be this area you will know that these are your trees! ! ! Please send an e-mail to joseph.hulbert@q.com if you can help. Volunteers should be 15-16 years of 612-554-0089 if you have any questions. y s on lc7k� tics a fd�r ale 'th 5t 4Y Shute Dr Fred Rithar& Gorcoune _Yahoo-"," Data.--NAdrEQ2W8