HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-02-13 Park Board Packet19 N_ A, AGENDA
O� e Regular Meeting of the Edina Park Board
oTuesday,
February 13, 2007, 7:00 P.M.
y Edina City Hall Council Chambers
4801 West 50th Street
CORP
1888
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.
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 or consideration at a future meeting.
PARK BOARD AGENDA
I. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:
*Tuesday, December 12, 2006, Park Board Minutes.
II. NEW BUSINESS:
*A. Todd Park Hockey Rink Public Opinion Survey.
*B. Todd Park Hockey Rink Scheduled User Survey.
C. Edina Community Foundation Athletic Fields and Facilities Fund -Raiser — George
Klus.
D. Park Board Orientation Presentation.
III. OLD BUSINESS:
A. Capital Improvement Plan.
B. Braemar Inspection Tour.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT
V. UPDATES FROM STAFF
A. Gymnasium Construction.
B. Courtney Fields Construction Project.
VI. PARK BOARD COMMENT
*These are agenda items that require or request Park Board action.
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.
Memo
To: Edina Park Board
From: John Keprios, Director
Edina Park and Recreation Department
Date: February 6, 2007
Re: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2007, PARK BOARD MEETING STAFF REPORT.
Enclosed you should find the following items:
1. Tuesday, December 12, 2006, Park Board Minutes.
2. Tuesday, February 13, 2007, Park Board Agenda.
3. Todd Park Hockey Rink Public Opinion Survey.
4. Todd Park Hockey Rink Scheduled User Survey.
5. Letter from Denny Johnson.
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, February 13, 2007, Park Board meeting will be at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council
Chambers 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 & B. Todd Park Hockey Rink Public Opinion Survey
As you may recall, the City Council has directed staff to provide, no later than July 1, a
report and analysis of the outdoor hockey rink at Todd Park. To prepare for this report
and analysis, I am suggesting that we conduct two surveys. I recommend that we mail
one public opinion survey to the neighbors of Todd Park and another to the coaches of
the Edina Hockey Association. Copies of these proposed surveys are enclosed in this
mailing.
I am suggesting that these be mailed and individually numbered to keep it a controlled
and valid survey, which is why I am not suggesting leaving copies at the warming house
for individuals to pick up and return.
I would ask for feedback and a consensus from the Park Board on the two surveys and
methodology, including deciding on what is a reasonable number of households to
include in the survey mailing. To mail the survey to all households within 1,500 feet of
Todd Park would be approximately 300 homes.
Staff is also working on an analysis of the rink attendance from this season and last year's
skating season as well as a study of other potential hockey rink locations.
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Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
C. Edina Community Foundation Athletic Fields and Facilities Fund -Raiser
Park Board member and Community Foundation member, George Klus, is heading up a
is fund-raising effort with the Edina Community Foundation for the purpose of improving
Edina's athletic fields and facilities (School and City fields and facilities). Mr. Klus will
give the Park Board a verbal update on this new business agenda item.
No formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
D. Park Board Orientation Presentation
I will be giving the Park Board an orientation power point presentation about the Edina
Park and Recreation Department in general that also includes language about the Park
Board's duties, mission, NRPA Code of Ethics, previous and future Park Board issues.
No formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
III. OLD BUSINESS:
A. Capital Improvement Plan
Staff will give the Park Board another revised draft copy (work in progress) of the
Capital Improvement Plan for years 2008-2011. This will be handed out at the meeting.
The 2008-2012 CIP Plan will be on future Park Board agendas in 2007 for additional
input and revisions that are reflective of the Needs Assessment Survey results. The City
Council has approved the Park Board's recommendations for 2007.
No formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
B. Braemar Inspection Tour
This is on the agenda to make Park Board members aware that the 2007 Braemar
Inspection Tour has been moved to Monday, July 9, 2007, due to a scheduling conflict
with another event at Braemar Golf Course.
No formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT
This is the opportunity for the public to give no more than 3 minutes of comments (each
speaker) to the Park Board.
V. UPDATES FROM STAFF
Staff will give the Park Board verbal updates:
A. Gymnasium Construction.
B. Courtney Fields Construction Project.
VI. PARK BOARD COMMENT
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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EDINA PARK BOARD
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2006
7:00 P.M.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mike Damman, Ray O'Connell, Gordon Roland, Andy Finsness,
Todd Fronek, Jeff Sorem, George Klus
MEMBERS ABSENT: Mike Weiss, Karla Sitek, Jeff Johnson, Linda Presthus
STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Ed MacHolda, Janet Canton
OTHERS PRESENT: Steve Rusk, Jack Keegan, Heidi Dorfineister, Sandy Fox, Bob
Shaw, Dianne P. Latham, Jean White, Suzanne Kerwin, Helese
Woelfel, David Lundberg, Jennifer Heinzel, Nancy Hall
I. APPROVAL OF THE NOVEMBER 14, 2006 PARK BOARD MINUTES
George Klus MOVED TO APPROVE THE NOVEMBER 14, 2006 PARK BOARD
MINUTES. Todd Fronek SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED.
II. NEW BUSINESS
A. Cable Television Filminiz Orientation — Jennifer Bennerotte — Ms. Bennerotte
informed the Park Board that recently the City Council held a weekend workshop to
try and start to establish some common visions and goals as they move forward. She
indicated that one of the things they achieved a consensus on was the idea of starting
to shed more responsibility at the board and commission level. However, to date they
have not yet formalized what that new role and responsibility will be. She stated that
she was just informed that the City Council is going to have another work shop
sometime in January to formalize their decision. Ms. Bennerotte commented that at
that point the City Council will then meet with all of the chairs of the boards and
commissions to discuss the details of their decisions. She noted that there has been
some talk that the public hearings for big issues would happen at the board and
commission levels instead of vice versa. She explained that right now there seems to
be a perception that the City Council public hearing trumps all public hearings below
it. Therefore, they are moving toward a format where the public hearings will be
emphasized at the board and commission level. Ms. Bennerotte pointed out that the
City Council also decided that the Park Board and Transportation Commission
meetings will now be televised over cable on the Community Channel 16. She noted
that the January 9th Park Board meeting will be their first televised meeting.
Ms. Bennerotte went over meeting decorum of being on television. She explained
that individuals will be limited to three minutes in length to which there will be a
lighting system installed that indicates to the speaker and the chair when it's
appropriate to cut the speaker off. She noted that they are asking the public not to
repeat remarks or points of view that have already been presented because they are
trying to get out of the repetition of some of the public hearings. She stated that they
discourage cheering, jeering, clapping and even non-verbal communication such as
signs, buttons and t -shirts. There needs to be a fair playing field for everyone. In
addition, when the Park Board is deliberating they ask that the public not interrupt
and ask questions unless the chair decides to take comment. Ms. Bennerotte indicted
that staff, consultants and proponents for a topic be given a limit of 20 minutes and
power point presentations can be no longer than 20 slides in length. She noted that
any more than that may put the Park Board in a bad position of having to cut
someone off half -way through their presentation. In addition, Ms. Bennerotte noted
that the City Council is also moving toward being more formal in the conversations
with each for e.g., Linda Masica would be addressed as Council Member Masica.
She stated that the Park Board as a group can decide how they want to address each
other but it's recommended not to use first names because the at home audience may
not know who is being referred to.
Ms. Bennerotte asked the Park Board that they not give speeches to the cable
television audience. She explained that if people are watching at home they will be
watching the meetings from month to month and they will have the background
information. She stressed that once people start making speeches to the at-home
audience they start to lose control of the meeting and it starts to become more about a
"show" than about a meeting.
B. 2007 Capital Improvement Plan — Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that the City
Council did have a couple of comments regarding the 2007 Capital Improvement
Plan. He indicated that Council Member Masica was of the opinion based on the
Needs Assessment Survey, as well as hearing from neighbors, that the playground
equipment at York Park really should be moved up to 2008. Mr. Keprios explained
that he is looking for a recommendation for the 2007 budget because the City Council
only approves budget dollars one year at a time and the rest of it is visionary because
it does change each year.
Mr. Keprios stated that one change he would request in looking at the 2007 Capital
Improvement Plan would be to install protective fencing at the Pamela Park Softball
Complex instead of protective netting. He explained that an architect was hired to
come up with some figures on what it would cost to put netting over the area as well
as see if there would be any ramifications. Unfortunately, the results showed that
they would have to lose some very beautiful trees and therefore, that was not the route
they felt they should go. Mr. Keprios indicated that he has asked Vince Cockriel,
Park Superintendent, to try to secure some other quotes to see if they could protect
just the spectator area as well as develop some permanent black vinyl fencing to
match the backstops. The fencing would protect those who sit in the bleachers right
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behind each of the dugouts as well as it would protect them from any fly balls.
However, once they are out of that domain they would be exposed to some fly balls.
Mr. Keprios pointed out if they were to do that it would cost approximately $7,000 as
opposed to their first quote which was $60,000.
Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that he was recently informed by Mr. Cockriel
that there is a bridge at Bredesen Park that is in need of replacement which was
something that was unforeseen. He stated that the bridge is on the west side of the
park and it will cost approximately $20,000 to replace. Therefore, he would
recommend instead of spending $60,000 on netting at Pamela Park they will only
spend $7,000 on protective fencing and spend $20,000 to replace the bridge at
Bredesen Park.
Mr. Keprios commented that in looking at the results from the Needs Assessment
Survey they may want to move the field renovation project at Todd Park from 2008 to
2010. He explained that by doing that it would allow them to move the replacement
of the playground equipment at York Park from 2010 to 2008. Mr. Keprios explained
that they may also want to consider moving the Countryside Park ball field
renovation out a year or two and then move a couple of playgrounds up. He
explained that if they were to do that they would essentially be able to replace six
playgrounds in a three year period which would be in sync with the results of the
Needs Assessment Survey. Mr. Keprios pointed out that the key thing is that they are
all in agreement with the 2007 Capital Improvement Plan and in the future perhaps
staff could come back with some follow-up recommendations.
Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that for the Aquatic Center they are
recommending $30,000 in upgrades and replacements which will stay consistent with
2008. However, the Flow Rider is being moved out as late as 2011. He commented
that may be moved up sooner if Mr. MacHolda feels the pool is ready for that boost.
Mr. Keprios pointed out that for the next couple of years the arena is in a repair
maintenance mode and commented that in 2009 they will have to replace the
Zamboni. He stated that the good news for the arena is that on January 1, 2009 the
1988 issued bonds will be paid off at the arena. Mr. Keprios noted that the bad news
is that the West Arena still has the original refrigeration system from the 1960s.
Therefore, they are trying to be proactive and are hoping that they can wait until 2010
to spend a million dollars to replace the refrigeration system.
Mr. Keprios explained that at Braemar Golf Course they are still paying back bonds
and interest on money that was borrowed to develop the new nine, expand the
clubhouse and purchase and develop the Fred Richards Golf Course. Therefore, as a
result of that they are cash flow broke and are unable to spend the capital dollars they
would like to at this time. He noted that some of the bigger ticket items won't start
coming into play until 2010 when a cart path renovation is being proposed as well as
the parking lot will need to be resurfaced. Mr. Keprios commented that the big ticket
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items that are scheduled for 2011 include redesigning holes 19 through 27, renovating
the driving range and replacing the first phase of the irrigation system.
Mr. Fronek stated that there will still be a $30,000 savings in the 2007 CIP due to cost
reductions planned for Pamela Park protective fencing vs. protective netting. He
noted that it will cost approximately $138,000 to renovate the ball fields at
Countryside Park in 2008 to which they are discussing pushing that out. Mr. Fronek
pointed out that a while back it was stated that Countryside Park is a great place for a
hockey rink because there is more adequate parking compared to Todd Park.
However, the orientation of Countryside Park was bad. Mr. Fronek suggested that
they look at taking a portion of the Pamela Park project reduction and put it into a
feasibility study to look at redesigning Countryside Park where they could have a
good hockey rink with good ice. Mr. Keprios replied that is a great recommendation
and perhaps they could ask for some of the balance of that money to be spent on a
feasibility study to explore some options to develop a master plan for Countryside
Park. Mr. Keprios added that they are still in their second year of a two-year pilot
project with the hockey rink at Todd Park and they are going to need to wait to see
how that plays out. Mr. Fronek asked how much it would cost to do a feasibility
study to which Mr. Keprios replied approximately $15,000. Mr. Fronek
recommended adding $15,000 for a feasibility study of Countryside Park.
Mr. Klus asked about the needs of some of the other parks, such at Bredesen Park and
the restroom situation they had there. He commented that maybe staff needs to look
at some of the other needs before $15,000 is committed to looking at Countryside
Park. Mr. Keprios replied that the Bredesen Comfort Station is operable and the
problems they had in the past were from vandalism. Mr. Keprios explained that what
he does intend to do for Bredesen Park is see if there are any dollars available as part
of any reserve fund that may be realized at the end of the 2006 budget, to spend on a
one-time basis only, to upgrade the pathways at Bredesen Park. He noted that it was
very clear from the Needs Assessment Survey that the number one thing is to
maintain the pathways at a high quality level.
Mr. Finsness asked Mr. Keprios if staff has thought about how they are going to truly
implement the results from the Needs Assessment Survey into the Capital
Improvement Plan. Mr. Keprios responded that he views the Needs Assessment
Survey as an ongoing tool that will play heavily into the Comprehensive Plan. In
addition, it will also play a part in how they are going to plan out the Capital
Improvement Plan for at least the next five years.
George Klus MOVED TO APPROVE THE 2007 CAPITAL PLAN. Mr. Fronek
asked if that includes both amendments discussed; $60,000 being reduced to $7,000
and putting the remainder of that money towards a bridge at Bredesen Park as well as
do a feasibility study of Countryside Park. Mr. Klus replied that is correct.
Jeff Sorem SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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C. Update to "Priority Use of the Edina School District's Gymnasiums" — Mr. Keprios
informed the Park Board that the main difference between the Priority Use Guidelines
from September 9, 2005 and the Priority Use Policy from December 12, 2006 is the
incorporation and adoption of the Youth Task Force recommendation. Mr. Keprios
pointed out that the most significant change is the section "Organizations Which
Request Special Permits to Offer Ongoing Programs in the Gymnasiums are Required
to Comply with the Following Guidelines" has now been eliminated and has been
replaced by the new guidelines and youth sports values document. The core values
document will replace that whole section.
Mr. Keprios stated that Mr. MacHolda made a wonderful suggestion that under
Priority Three where they list the associations that are recognized and can have access
to the city's gymnasiums they need to note that hockey and lacrosse are not allowed
to use the gymnasiums. He explained that they have learned from the manufacturer
of the gym floor that it would be wise not to allow these two groups to use the
gymnasiums because they will ruin the floors. Mr. Keprios commented that they
were hoping that wouldn't be the case, however, it was a very strong recommendation
from the manufacturer. Therefore, Mr. MacHolda and he suggest that the Park Board
adopt this document that hockey and lacrosse be removed from Priority Three. Mr.
Keprios commented that the School District does not allow that kind of play in any of
their gyms either.
Ray O'Connell MOVED TO APPROVE THAT THE PRIORITY USE OF THE
EDINA SCHOOL DISTRICT'S GYMNASIUM POLICY DATED 12/12/06 WITH
THE EDINA HOCKEY ASSOCIATION AND EDINA LACROSSE
ASSOCIATION BE EXCLUDED UNDER PRIORITY THREE. Mike Damman
SECONDED THE MOTION.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
D. League Of Women Voter's Stud X — Suzanne Kerwin, member of the League of
Women Voters in Edina, asked the Park Board if they had any questions or comments
on the study that was done by the League of Women Voters. Mr. Finsness noted
there were some interesting comments made with regards to the City Council and it
seems as though something may be happening because of it. Ms. Kerwin stated that
their study was very timely and it is interesting the way the City Council is starting to
look at the Boards and Commissions. Ms. Kerwin stated that the study will be
presented to the City Council in January.
Mr. Keprios commented that he would like to applaud the League of Women Voters
for what they did. The study was very thorough, interesting and worthwhile. Mr.
Finsness noted that he agrees that it is a great document. Ms. Kerwin thanked the
Park Board members who filled out the survey for their study.
E. 2007 Park Board Meeting Schedule — George Klus MOVED TO APPROVE THE
AGENDA FOR 2007. Jeff Sorem SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mr. Keprios pointed that the Park Board Tour is scheduled for the June Park Board
meeting and will start at 5:00 pm. He noted that he will come up with a
recommendation of what parks he thinks they should visit and asked for the Park
Board's input before it is finalized.
IJI. OLD BUSINESS
A. Needs Assessment Survey — Mr. Finsness asked Mr. Keprios if he had any further
comments on how the Needs Assessment Survey will be implemented into the
planning process for the upcoming years. Mr. Keprios replied that it will be a
wonderful tool as they go down the road and update their Comprehensive Plan. Mr.
Finsness asked Mr. Keprios to briefly explain the Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Keprios
explained that the Comprehensive Plan is a 10 year vision for the City of Edina with
regards to all of the issues that it faces whether it be traffic, housing, parks, etc. He
indicated that they currently have a comprehensive plan that was updated
approximately 8 1/2 years ago. He explained that it's a very lengthy and very public
process to update everything including the parks piece of it. Mr. Keprios commented
that he believes the city has hired a professional firm to assist the City with the
comprehensive plan process. He pointed out that the Park Board will be involved in
the process and asked if one or two Park Board members could be assigned to work
with Mr. MacHolda and himself to present the park and recreation findings. He noted
it may entail attending a few larger comprehensive plan meetings. Mr. Keprios
indicated that Mr. MacHolda and he will do the leg work as far as updating the
acreage and all of the detail part, however, a lot of the changes and additions will be
due to the results of the Needs Assessment Survey. He noted that he thinks they will
be inviting public input so that they can be sure they are on the right track and are in
sync with what the vision should be based on the data received from the Needs
Assessment Survey. Mr. Keprios explained that ultimately the Comprehensive Plan
will be adopted by the City Council to present to the Metropolitan Council.
Mr. Keprios pointed out that the Comprehensive Plan is not a Capital Improvement
Plan but rather a vision so they know what direction to follow for the next ten years
and that is why the Needs Assessment Survey is such a valuable piece of data. It will
help them generate that vision and will hopefully be reflective of the majority view.
Mr. Finsness asked if the Comprehensive Plan will have more specific questions or
will it be more general to which Mr. Keprios replied that he thinks it will address
more general issues. However, it's up to the City Council and the community to
come up with what they feel the answers are to those issues.
Diane Plunkett Latham, 7013 Comanche Court, stated that she found the survey
outstanding. She noted that one of the things that came to the top was the bikes and
trails. She stated that the city already has a bike trail task force and feels they now
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need a trails task force. In addition, she would also like to see a task force for the
natural and wildlife areas where they can find pockets of habitat to restore. There
could be different examples of habitat which could serve as an educational purpose as
well as there could be an oak savannah, a prairie area, a woodland area, etc. Ms.
Latham commented that the task force could work with the neighborhood to
determine where these could go and they could be adjacent to the walking paths.
Ms. Latham indicated that she thinks it's good that the City Council is recognizing
that perhaps some of the meetings are going too long as well as perhaps many of the
boards and commissions meetings are going too long. However, by limiting the
amount of testimony each individual can give in order to expedite business it really
does not give the community very much opportunity for input. Therefore, by having
these task forces they could then put together*and present a consolidated report to the
various boards and commissions who would then give their report to the City
Council.
Robert Shaw, resident of Nine Mile Village, informed the Park Board there are two
points he would like to make. The first is regarding buckthorn and the second is the
idea of an environmental commission or some sort of sub -committee to advise the
Park Board. Mr. Shaw stated that as far as buckthorn is concerned residents from
Nine Mile Village have been working for three years to eradicate buckthorn on their
property. He noted that at their expense they removed all of the buckthorn and in the
process they have increased the value of their property. Mr. Shaw indicated that they
live right next to Bredesen Park and that is where the buckthorn came from. He
stated that he looks for the day when the city will allow volunteers to get into
Bredesen Park and start removing the buckthorn. He pointed out that he realizes it's a
tremendous amount of work and it would take years, however, right now that park is
a disgrace. Therefore, he hopes that the city will get serious about improving
Bredesen Park and that it will become part of the city's vision.
Mr. Shaw pointed out that as far as an environmental commission the Park Board
would be well served to have a body of people who study the air, water, natural
plants, trees, shrubs, wildflowers, etc., and make recommendations to the Park board.
Mr. Klus commented that he would like Mr. Shaw to know that he doesn't think the
city at any time has discouraged residents from going into the parks and taking out
buckthorn. He stated that volunteers have been doing it for several years at Garden
Park as well as other parks. Ms. Latham clarified what Mr. Shaw was trying to say in
that it is true that volunteers are currently working to eradicate buckthorn in three or
four parks within the city. However, volunteers have not yet been permitted into
Bredesen Park because it is so large it would take an overall ecology plan to do it.
Ms. Latham pointed out that Bredesen Park is a big park and until Mr. Cockriel gets
an overall plan in place he cannot let volunteers work in Bredesen Park. Therefore,
Mr. Shaw would like to start working in Bredesen Park now but the Park and
Recreation Department is not quite ready to let the volunteers help.
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Mr. Klus asked Mr. Keprios if that is correct to which Mr. Keprios replied that
surprises him and he doesn't know the answer to that. Mr. Keprios stated that the city
did hire a consultant to evaluate the buckthorn issue in Edina. The consultant put
together a prioritized list of what seemed to make the most sense financially as well
as what made the most sense with the resources they have available. Mr. Keprios
stated that he believes the preference was to steer the volunteers to those priority
areas and that's where staff intended to spend its resources. He indicated that he is
not aware of any volunteers being told they cannot go into Bredesen Park. Mr.
Keprios commented that he will look into it and will discuss it with this staff. Mr.
Klus commented that he thinks if people in the community want to do volunteer work
in their parks then they should be allowed to do that. Therefore, it concerns him if
these volunteers are being told no. Mr. Keprios pointed out it's never just volunteers
when these things happen, it actually does involve staff resources and time. Mr. Klus
replied that is correct, the staff needs to pick it up. However, he's sure that staff
could find a time that would work with someone's schedule to pick up the buckthorn.
Mr. Keprios responded that he would be happy to make accommodations for
volunteers to be able to work on removing buckthorn in Bredesen Park.
Mr. O'Connell pointed out that in the Needs Assessment Survey 14% of the
respondents were interested in a nature center; however, only 3% were interested in
paying for it. He commented that rather than looking at building our own nature
center for two million dollars maybe they could work with Woodlake which is
surrounded by Bloomington and even possibly look at adding Eden Prairie.
Jennifer Heinzel, Edina High School student, informed the Park Board that this year
she is organizing the buckthorn removal at Edina High School. She explained how
she likes the idea of having a trail from Creek Valley Elementary to the Edina High
School, especially since both schools are working on restoration projects. She
indicated that the Edina High School restored their wetland area and is now working
on buckthorn removal.
Mr. Keprios stated that he would like to thank all of the Park Board members and all
of the public who participated in helping to make the survey as valuable as it is.
B. Lewis Park Hockey Rink Stud X — Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that the
Edina Hockey Association (EHA) and staff met with the consultant they hired to do a
feasibility study on whether or not they should consider building an outdoor
artificially refrigerated rink at Lewis Park. He noted that we learned that it would
cost approximately $800,000 to build. Mr. Keprios pointed out with the addition of
two new indoor rinks at Minnesota Made Ice Arena, at first glance it really does not
seem to make sense to go forward with the project. Mr. Keprios noted that EHA has
is interested in donating funds to purchase a downsized Zamboni that would fit in the
existing garage at Lewis Park. He indicated that the EHA and staff are currently
investigating that option.
Mr. Sorem pointed out that Lewis Park is one of the most heavily used rinks by non -
Edina residents and if a Zamboni is going to be at Lewis park he would like to see the
rink heavily scheduled with Edina programs.
Mr. Fronek asked if there has been any discussion about adding another rink at Lewis
Park that does not have refrigeration. Mr. Keprios replied they have discussed the
idea of building another rink that would be smaller and would accommodate the
mites. He stated that they are also considering the thought of making the rink so
small that they could put an oval skating rink around the perimeter of the smaller rink.
All of these ideas will require more analysis.
IV. UPDATES FROM STAFF
A. Gymnasium Construction — Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that the gyms are
now operational and so far the initial feedback has been very positive. He
commented that they are working very closely with the Edina School District to be
sure they don't over schedule the campus as far as parking and traffic are concerned.
Mr. Keprios pointed out that it's written in the Facility Use Agreement that Doug
Johnson, Community Education Director, has the authority to pre-empt the City out
of the gyms if there is a conflict or if scheduled events exceed the capacity of the
campus and overburden the neighborhood.
Mr. Klus asked if there have been any complaints from people that say they still can't
find gym space. Mr. MacHolda replied that for Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays
from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, they could probably use three or four more gyms.
However, the idea is to maximize the facilities. Therefore, they've shifted some of
the times to Friday nights and Saturday mornings as well as the 10th through 12th
grade boys basketball are playing on Sunday afternoons. Mr. MacHolda stated that
he hasn't heard any complaints about people finding gym space.
B. Courtney Fields Construction Project - Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that
they are getting near the end of the Courtney Construction Fields project. He noted
that they have not had one change order to date and are currently within budget.
V. ADJOURNMENT
George Klus MOVED THE ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:25 PM. Jeff Sorem
SECONDED THE MOTION. MEETING ADJOURNED.
9
TODD PARK HOCKEY RINK
PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY
The City of Edina Park and Recreation Department would like your input to help the Park Board determine
outdoor neighborhood hockey rink location priorities for our community. This survey will take approximately
10 minutes to complete. When you are finished, please return your survey in the enclosed postage -paid, return -
reply envelope. We greatly appreciate your time.
Are you a resident of the City of Edina?
(1) Yes [Please continue with the survey.]
(2) No [Please discontinue the survey. This survey is only for residents of Edina.]
2. Have you or members of your household used the Todd Park hockey rink since 2005?
(1) Yes (2) No
3. The City of Edina should continue to provide a hockey rink at Todd Park during the outdoor winter
skating season:
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
- (5) No preference
Comments:
4. If the Park Board and City of Edina decide to CONTINUE to provide a hockey rink at Todd Park
during the outdoor winter skating season, please check all those that you agree with:
(01) 1 do not object to having the hockey boards remain up year around.
(02) 1 prefer that the hockey boards be taken down and stored after each skating season.
(03) 1 or a household family member would use the hockey rink during the winter months.
(04) No one in our household family would use the hockey rink during the winter months.
Comments:
5. If the Park Board and City of Edina decide to DISCONTINUE to provide a hockey rink at Todd Park
during the outdoor winter skating season, please check all those that you agree with:
(01) 1 prefer that there remain a general skating rink during the winter months.
(02) 1 prefer that there be no more outdoor skating at Todd Park.
6. The new hockey rink lights at Todd Park are an unacceptable nuisance:
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
7. The new hockey rink at Todd Park generates noise that is at an unacceptable nuisance:
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
8. The addition of the new outdoor hockey rink at Todd Park has increased traffic in the
neighborhood to and unacceptable and/or unsafe level.
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
9. The addition of the new outdoor hockey rink at Todd Park has increased on -street parking in the
neighborhood to and unacceptable and/or unsafe level.
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
The addition of an outdoor hockey rink at Todd Park hockey rink would add value to the
homes in the Todd Park neighborhood.
_ (1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
11. The addition of an outdoor hockey rink at Todd Park hockey rink would negatively affect the value of
homes in the Todd Park neighborhood.
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
12. If a permanent outdoor hockey rink were installed at Todd Park and left up on a year around basis
similar to all other outdoor hockey rinks in Edina, it would significantly change my family's ability to
use the park's open space to an unacceptable level.
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
This concludes the survey; Thank you for your time.
Please Return Your Completed Survey in the Enclosed Return -Reply Envelope
Addressed to:
Edina Park and Recreation Department
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
Your response will remain completely confidential.
The number assigned to this survey is strictly for survey validity control purposes.
•
TODD PARK HOCKEY RINK
SCHEDULED USER SURVEY
The City of Edina Park and Recreation Department would like your input to help the Park Board
determine outdoor neighborhood hockey rink location priorities for our community. This
survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete. When you are finished, please return your
survey in the enclosed postage -paid, return -reply envelope. We greatly appreciate your time.
1. Are you currently a coach of the Edina Hockey Association?
(1) Yes [Please continue with the survey.]
(2) No [Please discontinue the survey. This survey is only for EHA coaches only.]
2. How many times did your hockey team use the Todd Park outdoor hockey rink during
the 2005-2006 hockey season?
Zero (did not use the hockey rink at all during the 2005-2006 season)
1 or 2 times the entire 2005-2006 season
3 or 4 times the entire 2005-2006 season
5 or 6 times the entire 2005-2006 season
7 or more times the entire 2005-2006 season
Comments:
3. How many times did your hockey team use the Todd Park outdoor hockey rink during
the 2006-2007 hockey season?
Zero (did not use the hockey rink at all during the 2006-2007 season)
1 or 2 times the entire 2006-2007 season
3 or 4 times the entire 2006-2007 season
5 or 6 times the entire 2006-2007 season
7 or more times the entire 2006-2007 season
Comments:
4. 1 prefer that the City of Edina CONTINUE to provide a hockey rink at Todd Park during
the outdoor winter skating season:
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree
(5) No preference
Comments:
(3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
5. If the Park Board and City of Edina decide to continue to provide a hockey rink at
Todd Park, I prefer that the City of Edina continue to provide the white plastic
hockey dasher board system (as opposed to the permanently installed wood dasher
boards similar to those in other Edina parks) at Todd Park:
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
6. If the Park Board and City of Edina decide to continue to provide a hockey rink at
Todd Park, I prefer that the City of Edina install the permanent wood dasher boards
system similar to those in other Edina parks:
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
7. The on -street parking scenario at Todd Park is unacceptable:
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
• (5) No preference
Comments:
8. The Todd Park hockey rink location is too difficult for EHA participants to find:
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
9. If limited to the same number of outdoor hockey rinks (11 hockey rinks), I prefer that
the Park Board and City Council DISCONTINUE providing a hockey rink at Todd
Park and add an outdoor hockey rink at another park location:
(1) Strongly Agree (2) Agree (3) Disagree (4) Strongly Disagree
(5) No preference
Comments:
•
This concludes the survey; Thank you for your time.
Please Return Your Completed Survey in the Enclosed Return -Reply
Envelope Addressed to:
Edina Park and Recreation Department
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
Your response will remain completely confidential.
The number assigned to this survey is strictly for survey validity control purposes.
I am writing this to the Edina City Council, the Park Board, the City Manager and the Braemar Golf
Course in support of the proposed capital improvements to Braemar's Driving Range. Please
116 forward this to the appropriate personnel.
Dear Edina City Council and Park Board Members,
It is my understanding that the Edina City Council will consider capital improvements at its January 2007
meeting and I am writing to express my strong support the proposed project to improve and expand the
Braemar Driving Range.
It is my understanding that the proposed plan will move two holes (# 2 & 3) of the Executive Course
across the road. This will allow the driving range to run from the current Tee position all the way to the
road. This will allow a much deeper Tee area and allow a substantially larger turf area from which to hit
balls. This is important as most golfers prefer to practice on actual turf rather than on artificial mats.
Currently the turf area is insufficient for the volume of customers at the driving range. The process of
hitting balls removes the turf as divots are usually taken when hitting irons. This means that the Tee area
has to be constantly moved around so the customers have a patch of grass to hit from. The areas that
have been used have to be reseeded and given time to grow back. There simply isn't enough turf area
with the current set up to allow the used areas to recover and still allow hitting from turf. What happens is
that the grass is removed from all the turf area in a relatively short time and then customers must hit from
mats again until the reseeded grass grows back and becomes established.
With the proposed project there would be a very large turf area that could be used as the Tee area.
This would allow sufficient space to rotate the tees through the turf area while allowing sufficient time for
the used areas to be reseeded and recover. I know many potential Braemar customers who go to other
driving ranges, rather than Braemar, so they can hit off turf. The expanded turf area in the proposed
project would attract these customers back to Braemar and thus increase revenue. In addition, the
• proposed project would widen the tee area and allow more customers to use the driving range at one
time. During the season people have to wait for a tee area especially during peak hours. Some people go
elsewhere or don't hit because it's too busy or they don't have time to wait. The additional tees
would bring more of these people to Braemar providing additional revenue to help pay for the proposed
project.
Another major issue is safety. Currently the lesson tees, which are located at the opposite end of the
driving area, are too close to the tee area where people are driving balls. With modern equipment, skilled
golfers can hit the ball far enough to land in the lesson tee area. This obviously presents a hazard to the
instructors and those taking lessons. With the proposed project, the lesson tees could be moved far
enough back that there would be no risk of being hit by a ball hit from the driving tees. It would also allow
increased space and significantly improve the quality of the instruction area. This also has the potential of
increasing revenue and will greatly reduce the City's liability exposure. Avoiding one serious injury claim
could easily pay for this entire project.
The proposed project would also allow a phased development which would allow the Executive Course
and the Driving Range to continue to operate and bring in revenue while the improvements are being
made. First, two new holes would be built across the road. Then, when the new holes are ready to be
used, holes #2 and 3 of the Executive Course could be closed to allow expansion of the Driving Range.
Both the Executive Course and the Driving Range could continue to operate at full capacity through out
the entire process without the loss of revenue. Pretty ingenious, I'd say.
I also think that moving forward with this proposed project now is important. This project has been on the
agenda for several years and is well overdue. The Driving Range facility at Braemar has been sub par
and operating well below it's potential for a long time. The proposed improvements would raise the quality
the Braemar facility considerably, greatly increase safety with the resulting reduction of liability exposure
and bring the facility much closer to its financial and recreational potential. The increased revenue from
this project should pay off any debt incurred in a relatively short period of time and thus, not be a burden
on other City finances.
The Municipal Bonds rate is currently pretty low. The Consumer Price Index recently rose and the Fed is
probably looking at ways to start curbing inflation. This means interest rates will probably rise and the cost
of this project will increase significantly. The market is ripe for this investment right now and this
opportunity may not be available in the not too distant future.
Braemar has always been a financially stable facility and not only paid for itself but brought in revenue. In
recent years it has been unfairly strapped with the debt load of the Fred Richards course preventing it
from moving forward with much needed improvements. Braemar is a very valuable asset to the city of
Edina and provides positive revenue flow and debt reduction. It needs to be maintained and improved to
compete in this increasingly competitive golfing market. Not only is it falling behind but it is losing potential
revenue for itself and the City of Edina.
Braemar is a treasure, please protect it and improve it!
Thank you for your attention. Please feel free to call me.
Denny Johnson
6700 Cahill Rd.
Edina, MN 55439
952-941-01709 hm
612 269-8082 cell
612-339-9121 wk
00W- '""%
Athletica.
Building sport solutions
IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT THE FOLLOWING BE FILLED OUT:
PROJECT DELIVERY DATE: OCTOBER 3, 2005*
DELIVERY DATE IS BASED UPON THE FOLLOWING:
ORDER BEING RECEIVED BY 9/23/05
APPROVED DWGS BEING RECEIVED BY 9/26/05
DELIVERY ON 10/12/05
Lease Terms: All payment terms based on Credit Approval (O.A.C)
$5,000 Lease of System for Season #1 - (November 1, 2005 - June 30, 2006)
• $8,000 Due July 1, 2006 for Season #2 - (July 1, 2006 -June 30, 2007)
• $10,900 Due July 1, 2007 -to Purchase System
This lease is based upon a 2 year minimum commitment.
At the end of Season #2 or June 30, 2007 the City of Edina can return the system to
Athletica. The City of Edina is responsible for removal and delivery of the system to
Athletica in usable condition and complete.
Athletica will warranty the system against defects in materials or workmanship during the
lease period. Any replacement panels required during the lease, as a result of normal use
will be supplied at No Charge by Athletica. A review of damage will be completed in order
to determine cause, before supplying replacement panels. Installation of replacement
panels to be by the City of Edina.
Replacement costs for any panels which are abused or vandalized will be charged to the
City of Edina.
By:
Bob Vohnoutka - Midwest Sales
'M CRYSTAPLEX" BORDER* PATR06.
15300 25'h Avenue N., Suite 600 -Minneapolis, MN 55447
* .809.RmK (7465) •763.249.RINK (local) • 763.249.7475 (fax)
www.athietica.com
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John Keprios, Director
Edina Park & Recreation Department
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
Office (952) 826-0430
FAX (952) 826-0385
Jkeprios@ci.edina.mn.us
To: NEIGHBORS OF TODD PARK
From: John Keprios, Director
CC: Edina Park Board
Date: April 7, 2005
Re: PROPOSED HOCKEY RINK AT TODD PARK.
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At the February Park Board meeting, the Park Board voted to consider a proposal to place an outdoor hockey
• rink back at Todd Park. I say "back at Todd Park" because several years ago there used to be an outdoor
hockey rink where the existing light poles are currently in place. Before making a final decision, the Park Board
would like your input on the proposal.
There are a number of reasons why the Park Board is considering placing a hockey rink back at Todd Park.
Placing a hockey rink back at Todd Park will help meet the demand for organized outdoor hockey rink practice
time. There is also a desire to take advantage of the beautiful park shelter building at Todd Park that is
underutilized during the winter months. Due to Todd Park's location, placing a hockey rink back at Todd Park
will likely attract mainly Edina residents and serve the immediate neighborhood.
If a hockey rink were placed back at Todd Park, it would be subject to the same reservation policy in place for
all other outdoor hockey rinks in Edina parks. In other words, the hockey rink could be reserved by Edina
resident groups for scheduled uses from 6:00 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. weekday evenings; and 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
on Saturdays; and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sundays. The only exception to the policy is that the Edina Hockey
Association is allowed to reserve additional scheduled times on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. All Edina
outdoor hockey rinks remain unscheduled and open to public use from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays.
To provide your input on this proposal, the Park Board welcomes you to submit your comments in writing
either by email or fax .or letter to me at the address and information listed above. You are also welcome to
attend the Park Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 10, 2005, at 7:00 p.m. in the Community Room (2t d
floor in City Hall). Thank you in advance for your input. It is greatly appreciated.
City of Edina, MN
Capital Improvement Program
2007 thru 2011
PROJECTS BY DEPARTMENT
Department Project# Priority 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Total
!Park & Recreation 1
Pathway Repairs/Additions: Arneson Acres
PK -00-028
0
30,000
30,000
Playground: Alden Park
PK -00-031
0
118,000
118,000
Parking Lot: Weber Park •
PK -00-035
0
77,000
77,000
Playground: McGuire Park
PK -00-037
0
120,000
120,000
Playground: Pamela Park
PK -00-039
0
150,000
150,000
Renovate softball field: Todd Park
PK -01-001
0
91,000
91,000
Renovate west baseball field: Countryside Park
PK -01-004
0
138,000
138,000
New Maintenance Garage: Courtney Fields
PK -02-008
0
190,000
190,000
Playground: Chowen Park
PK -02-041
0
120,000
120,000
Playground: York Park
PK -02-042
0
120,000
120,000
Batting/Pitching Cages - Pamela Park
PK -04-001
0
50,000
50,000
Hockey Rink Relocation - Walnut Ridge Park
PK -04-003
0
90,000
90,000
Renovate Picnic Shelter - Chowen Park
PK -05-002
0
50,000
50,000
Upgrade Keyless Entry System
PK -05-004
0
25,000
25,000
Off -Leash Dog Park - France Avenue Site
PK -05-006
0
40,000
40,000
New Park Pathway - Garden Park
PK -05-007
0
55,000
55,000
athway Renovation - Todd Park
PK -05-009
0
45,000
45,000
Replace Playground Equipment - Countryside Park
PK -05-010
0
110,000
110,000
Picnic Shelter- Braemar Park
PK -07-001
0
50,000
50,000
Window Replacement - Arneson Acres Park
PK -07-002
0
10,000
10,000
Protective Netting - Pamela Park Softball Complex
PK -07-003
0
7,000
7,000
New Athletic Field With Lights - Pamela Park
PK -07-004
0
400,000
400,000
Waterproofing Historic Buildings - Tupa Park
PK -07-005
0
20,000
20,000
Pedestrian Bridge Repair - Bredesen Park
PK -07-006
0
25,000
25,000
Master Plan Study - Countryside Park
PK -07-007
0
18,000
18,000
Park & Recreation Total
558,000
407,000
470,000 274,000 440,000
2,149,000
GRAND TOTAL 558,000 407,000 470,000 274,000 440,000 2,149,000
Page I