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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.
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• 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.
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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.
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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.
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® 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
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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%.
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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.
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• 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.
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• 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
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• 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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
•
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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
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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
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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.
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