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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-11-13 Park Board Packett-rZA. e L"P):A Cn \�RPOPA�9/ LBBB AGENDA Regular Meeting of the Edina Park Board Tuesday, November 13, 2007, 7:00 P.M. Edina City Hall Council Chambers 4801 West 50th Street PARK BOARD MEETING PROCEDURES During "Public Hearings," the Chair will ask for public comment after City staff members make their presentations. If you wish to speak on the topic, you are welcome to do so as long as your comments are relevant to the discussion. To ensure fairness to all speakers and to allow the efficient conduct of a public hearing, speakers must observe the following guidelines: • Individuals must limit their presentations to three minutes or less. The Chair will modify presentation times, as deemed necessary. • Try not to repeat remarks or points of view made by prior speakers and limit comments to the matter under consideration. • In order to maintain a comfortable environment for all those in attendance, the use is 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, October 9, 2007, Park Board Minutes. II. NEW BUSINESS: *A. Proposed Coffee Shop at Lewis Park. *B. Non -Resident Patron Card Proposal — Braemar Golf Course. III. OLD BUSINESS A. Countryside Park Master Plan. B. Pamela Park Athletic Field Project Update. C. Athletic Association Presidents Meeting. 1 • IV. PUBLIC COMMENT V. UPDATES FROM STAFF A. 2007 Park Improvement Projects Presentation. 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. X Memo To: Edina Park Board From: John Keprios, Director Edina Park and Recreation Department Date: November 7, 2007 Re: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2007, PARK BOARD MEETING STAFF REPORT. Enclosed you should find the following items: 1. Tuesday, October 9, 2007, Park Board Minutes. 2. Tuesday, November 13, 2007, Park Board Agenda. 3. Letter from Betty Lindberg. 4. Athletic Association Presidents Meeting Minutes. 5. Non -Resident Patron Card Proposal from John Valliere. 6. Park Amenities for Countryside Park (staff notes). 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, November 13, 2007, 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. Proposed Coffee Shop at Lewis Park At the October 9, 2007, Park Board meeting, Carolyn Kohrs gave the Park Board a proposal to consider development of a 2 -story building to serve as a coffee shop and community gathering space at Lewis Park. After lengthy discussion, the Park Board voted unanimously to table the issue for a future meeting. Park Board also asked Ms. Kohrs to research a few legal questions brought up by Park Board members and also asked that she determine the neighborhood's level of support for this proposal; including residents and the business community. Ms. Kohrs' legal questions and our attorney's responses are listed below: Q. Under the proposed plan, would the City be able to provide the land at a nominal lease amount particularly in view of the community purpose and planned non-profit operations? A. To answer the question I would first have to know how the city acquired the land and if there are any restrictions on its use. If there are no use restrictions, the -1- city can lease the land. I am not aware of any authority to lease the property for a nominal consideration under the circumstances presented. Q. Under the proposed plan, could the City continue the buildings property tax exempt status and, if not, what would be the likely applicable property taxes? A. The County not the city determines if property is tax exempt. Under the circumstances presented; I doubt it would be tax exempt but that is a question for the County to answer. Q. Would the City legally be able to provide liability insurance for operating the proposed community gathering/warming house at Lewis Park as proposed? A. There is no statutory authority for the city to purchase insurance for a private group. Q. Are there any immediately apparent inconsistencies regarding City Code or operations that would prohibit implementation of the project, as proposed? A. Since the property would be leased and operate by an entity separate from the City, the establishment would have to comply with the City's zoning ordinance. If the property is zoned residential, it would not be an allowed use. The Park Board also asked Carolyn to find out how the immediate neighbo ood residents and businesses feel about the proposal. Therefore she has launched the following website that includes an online survey: http://www.forabetterlewispark.or,i,,/ As promised, I provided Ms. Kohrs a copy of the soil boring reports that were done as part of the hockey rink feasibility study for Lewis Park. The soil borings are not immediately next to the building; however, they do reflect the presence of poor sub -soils for building large structures. Ms. Kohrs has been out of the country and therefore unable to provide us w th written findings in time for this Staff Report and mailing. However, she does intend to be at the Park Board meeting to present her findings and ask if the Park Board desires any further information. Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. B. Non -Resident Patron Card Proposal — Braemar Golf Course As stated in the enclosed proposal from Braemar Golf Course Manager Jo Valliere, we propose that we permit the sale of a non-resident patron card for non- residents who work full-time in Edina. Staff also proposes that this non-resident patron card fee be set at $90.00 for 2008. The resident patron card fee is $7 .00 for 2008. Please see Mr. Valliere's enclosed proposal for background information. I fully support John's recommendations. Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. -2- III. OLD BUSINESS A. Countryside Park Master Plan Park Board member Mike Damman and staff met with our architect consult antE Greg Ingraham and Anna Claussen from Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc. to review the architects' first set of concept drawings to redesign CountrysidePar] As a result, staff has put together some ideas for the Park Board to begin the dialogue about the future master plan for Countryside Park. There are goo arguments to be made to include or not include a variety of park amenities into the master plan. The enclosed copy of staff's proposed "Park Amenities for Countryside Park" is intended to set the stage to begin discussion about wh t is important to include in the master plan. Several weeks ago, I met with Mr. Jim Garvey, Business Administrator for Colonial Church of Edina, and reviewed with him the first set of concept drawings. Mr. Garvey intends to share these concepts with the decision makers from Colonial Church to get their feedback and input. It is important to mention that the parking lot on the southwest corner of the park was built entirely at the expense of Colonial Church and the parking lot rests on land donated to the City of Edina by Colonial Church. There is a deed restriction/agreement that m dat( that the City must maintain the parking lot; however, the City is not obligated to plow the snow on Sundays. Restrictions do not permit the City to use the property for anything other than a parking lot without permission from Colonial Church. To date, I have still not received any written response from Colonial Church regarding the concept drawings. At our November 13th Park Board meeting, I intend to have our architect consultant present to review these initial concept drawings and seek Park B and input. After giving this a lot of thought, I am now of the opinion that we should hold off on conducting a neighborhood information meeting until we have a clear financing vehicle in place. The argument could be made that informing the neighborhood about a new and exciting park master plan may inspire a referendum or another form of financing; however, I now feel it's best to h ve a financing plan in place before going to the neighborhood for their input. Once the Park Board and City Council are comfortable with a means to finance the construction of a new master plan for Countryside Park, I would then suggest that the next step be to send notices to residents within 1,000 feet of Countryside Park and invite them to a neighborhood information meeting to seek their input. With neighborhood and Park Board input, the next step would then be to bring the matter to the Park Board for their final approval of recommendations to sen I to the City Council. Feel free to disagree with me on this strategy. It is worth y of debate. On this agenda item, I ask that the Park Board decide by consensus what should be followed. I also ask that the Park Board to provide input and f on the proposed concept plans. -3- B. Pamela Park Athletic Field Proiect Update As Park Board member George Klus has mentioned in the past, his Edina Athletic Facilities Foundation committee has identified the Pamela Park project as their highest priority. The project would include construction of an artificial turf multi- purpose athletic field with lights at Pamela Park located just west and slight y north of the existing senior athletic field with lights at Pamela Park. There is currently $400,000 in the 2011 Capital Improvement Plan to build a natural sand - peat grass field with lights; however, that project cost estimate is likely very low due to the need for additional parking and possible wetland mitigation. Aftl the feasibility study is complete, a more realistic total project cost estimate will have to be updated in the CIP. The lowest bid to conduct the wetlands delineation survey is $8,500. The n recent data collected by our Engineering Department four years ago on Pam Park is considered by the Federal government to be too outdated to be valid part of the delineation survey. There is not adequate funding in the 2007 Pa Recreation Department operating budget to cover that expense. If we learn this project is feasible, the City Council has directed staff to host a neighbor input meeting first, followed by a Public Hearing at a Park Board meeting a a third mailing to conduct the Public Hearing at a City Council meeting. Tr Council directed staff to mail notices to all those within 1,000 feet of the en park. According to the LOGIS computer software program, there are approximately 912 households that are within 1,000 of Pamela Park. If we three mailings, that equates to 2,736 letters at a cost of $1,121.76 in postage three mailings would be: 1. Neighborhood input meeting 2. A Public Hearing at a Park Board meeting 3. The Public Hearing at a City Council meeting I currently do not have adequate operating funds to cover the wetlands delis survey and I am currently unable secure other sources of funding for the str: Therefore I am delaying this project until adequate funds are available, whi be 2008. It is my intent to fund this feasibility study and wetland delineatic survey within our 2008 operating budget through using both Administration Professional Services (account #1600.6103 budgeted at $6,874) and Athleti Activities (account #1621.6406 budgeted at $8,917). To date, I have spent of $320 towards the feasibility study, which is time and materials expenses Anderson/Johnson Associates. as rk and :hat hood rd do e ire lo The will total aid to In my view, the survey is worth doing even if subsequent fund raising efforts fail. In staff's view, this is a project that should ultimately be funded either by find raising dollars or capital dollars or referendum dollars. Fund raising dollar would obviously get the job done sooner than later. Our consulting architect, Roy Anderson of Anderson/Johnson Associates, i of the opinion that the feasibility study, including wetlands delineation survey, wi 1 suggest that the project is feasible; however, he expects that total project co is will be between $1.5 and $2 million. Mr. Anderson does admit that there is a slight chance that the project may not be possible due to wetland mitigation C. issues; however, he feels that our chances to move forward with this projec� are positive. No formal action is suggested on this agenda item; however, any feedback be greatly appreciated. C. Athletic Association Presidents Meeting Park Board member representative Mike Damman attended the Athletic Association Presidents meeting with staff on Wednesday, October 24, 2007 Minutes of that meeting are enclosed for your review. In summary, the meeting was very positive and production. The associations are doing a great job in doing background checks, distributing Code of Conduct brochures, and informing parents of the new Relationship Document and Core Values Document created by the Youth Sports Task Force. Some associations questioned the mandate for including the City of Edina as an additional insured on their liability insurance policy. Staff is still researching that issue. The Athletic Association Presidents meeting earlier this year was held on 27, 2007. It is our intent to do the next one in March or April of 2008. No formal action is suggested on this agenda item. D. Bike Edina Task Force Update The Bike Edina Task Force gave a formal presentation of their final report and recommendations to the City Council on Monday, November 5. The final report is available online via the City's website for your review. There are a few recommendations within the report that directly affect parks, such as, a recommendation to include more bicycle racks (and a specific style of bike rack is preferred). If the Park Board desires, we could ask for a similar presentatio 1 to the Park Board of the Task Force findings and recommendations. IV. PUBLIC COMMENT This is the opportunity for the public to give no more than 3 minutes of (each speaker) to the Park Board. V. UPDATES FROM STAFF It is my intent to give a brief power point presentation of a few completed 2007 park improvement projects with photos. 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. -5- Minutes of the Edina Park Board October 9, 2007 Edina City Hall, Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Ray O'Connell, Randy Meyer, Todd Fronek, Linda Presthus, J Sorem, Mike Damman, George Klus, Carolyn Nelson, Andy Finsness MEMBERS ABSENT: Howard Merriam, Karla Sitek STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Ed MacHolda, Janet Canton, Ann Kattreh, Susie Mill Wayne Houle, Tom Shirley, Todd Anderson, John Valliere, Roger Glanzer, Jesse Struve I. APPROVAL OF THE SEPTEMBER 11, 2007 PARK BOARD MINUTES George Klus MOVED TO APPROVE THE SEPTEMBER 11, 2007 PARK MINUTES. Linda Presthus SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APF II. NEW BUSINESS A. Proposed Well and Pump House Building at Bredesen Park — Engineer and Public Works Director — Wayne Houle, City Engineer, gave power point presentation regarding their proposal to install a well and pump house building in the southwest corner of Bredesen Park. Mr. Finsness asked if i wasn't placed in a park where would it be to which Mr. Houle replied they would have to purchase property, however, they would like to keep it on the wcstel.ly side of Edina because they are lacking wells in that area. Ms. Presthus asked why the pump house is now needed. Mr. Houle replied the main reason is because they are down three wells. Ms. Presthus asked what effect the residents will see if the wells cannot work. Mr. Houle explained that if they were to have a break down in any of their wells they may have to go to a complete watering ban which means users would not be able to water their grass. Ray O'Connell MOVED TO APPROVE THE REQUEST. Mike Damman SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. B. Proposed Coffee Shop at Lewis Park — Carolyn Kohrs, 7444 Shannon Drive, went over the proposal that she sent to the Park Board. She explained that their vision is to capitalize on Lewis Park's warming house and make it into something hat is a community place. She noted that they are proposing to demolish the existing warming house and put in a new building in the same place, however it would be a two story building. She pointed out that it would be a place where people in the community can go to visit and drink coffee that would serve all ages. Ms. ohrs stated that the format of their proposal matches the strategic plan for the City's 20/20 Vision. 1 Ms. Kohrs explained that she is proposing to do a joint venture with the Citi would be community led. She pointed out that private investors would prov the money to get the project designed, built and run. She indicated that the investors would ultimately be responsible for the success of the project. Sh( stated that they would run the operations as an entrepreneurial venture with caveat that all of the revenue goes back to buying the initial investment and recouping operational costs and once that is recouped the investors would di the building and the revenue source to the city. She indicated that the City point could decide what it is that they want to do with it and added that thea lot of great options. She stressed that the City would be able to get into thi, venture without any financial risk and all they would ask of the city is to pr( lot of support to make it happen as well as keep the property as a tax exemp status from property taxes. They would also ask for the city to release the footprint of that building, provide engineering services for the unstable soils help come up with a design for the foundation that would be suitable to sup] two story building. In addition they would also ask that the City contribute funding that's already been allocated in the operation and maintenance of th current warming house that has already been set aside. Ms. Kohrs explaine the worst case scenario is that if it just doesn't work, the city would not be u any obligation to purchase the building and it would be donated to the city a loss to the investors. She stated that everything would be specified in a legs contract before anything was even started. Mr. Klus stated that he doesn't think the city is in any position to have that of property taken off the tax roll and suggested to Ms. Kohr's to investigate further. He indicated that he also thinks there needs to be a neighborhood n before they proceed any further with this to see if it's even something that t] neighbors would want. Mr. Klus informed Ms. Kohrs he is not against wh is trying to do there, it is just more information they need. First, she needs show that this is something that the people in the community want. Second there would need to be a full financial showing on how they are going to co of the costs including the liability, rental and other items that are currently r shown because at this time it's an incomplete report. that that are a vide a and ort a D the l that ider a ng she Mr. Sorem stated that he is concerned what the layout of the building is going to be because the Park Board has discussed potentially bringing in a Zamboni to Lewis Park. He pointed out that Lewis Park is a very heavily used outdoor rink in Edina. Ms. Kohrs replied that the city would have input and they would make sure that everyone's needs are being met. Ms. Presthus stated that Lewis Park is within very close proximity to the for profit businesses that have the same amenities that you are talking about and have had trouble making it. She stated that she is not sure why the City would want to give their parkland to a private business when the same business is right down the street. Ms. Kohrs replied that she views that commercial area is a different service that's being provided. 2 Mr. Finsness stated that if he understands this correctly it would be more than a • coffee shop; it would be a satellite community center coffee shop. Ms. Ko s replied that is correct, it really is a gathering place. Mr. Finsness commente i that maybe the Park Board needs to decide in concept whether or not to support satellite community center if it could be worked out to everyone's agreeme t. Mr. Meyer stated that at this point he doesn't think they have enough informatio to make that decision. 7 Ms. Presthus stated that she would like to go on the record as saying she sti 1 has a problem with us using the City's public park land to compete with a similar private enterprise business that's just a few feet down the street. Mr. Fronek stated that he would be fundamentally opposed to this particular idea of giving up this land for a private enterprise not in general but for the reason that Ms. Presthus gave. He noted that he just doesn't see that this should be so ethinj that the city should entertain at this time. Mr. Klus stressed to Ms. Kohrs that if this is going to work at all she needs have the neighborhood support, which he is not hearing tonight. Randy Meyer commented that further study needs to be done to ensure that is adequate space for this proposed facility. He noted that there are additior code requirements, such as ADA, that come into play when you build a two facility and as a result it may not be feasible for that type of building in that location. Randy Meyer MOVED TO TABLE THIS AND BRING IT BACK IN A MONTH OR TWO ONCE THEY HAVE GATHERED ADDITIONAL DATA AS SUGGESTED BY THE PARK BOARD. Jeff Sorem SECONDED THE MOTION. Ms. Presthus stated that she would also like to hear input from the businesses in the area other than just the residents. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. C. 2008 Fees and Charges — Mr. Keprios pointed out two minor changes on th fees and charges. The first one is a typo of page 8; the Edinborough Association Members Daily Pass should be $5.50 and not $5.00. Secondly, on page 8 the half day rental for the Braemar Shelter was inadvertently left out and it should be on there with a rate of $25.00 per half day. Mr. Klus added that on page 3 for Braemar Arena it states hourly rate (as of 9/95) and stated that it should be probably read (as of 9/2008). Mr. Klus asked Mr. Keprios how much he thinks the revenue is going to im by these fees and charges; and are we looking at significant dollars. Mr. KI commented that it seems to him like they keep nickel and dimming people E year. He noted that some of the rates change every year and asked if they c 3 change it to a level where it could at least stay consistent for more than a ye . He indicated that to him it would make more sense to raise it a few dollars and hen leave it so the residents in the community know at least from one year to the next it's going to essentially be the same. Mr. Keprios responded that the intent is not to set the fees and charges at a level to create a large surplus pool of money. They try to stay competitive in the market place, stay affordable and try to keep pace with inflation. He commented that it seems to be a little more palatable totheir customers to bump them up a little more each year. Mr. Valliere added that he finds a good deal of his clientele will accept a small increase annually beca se they know the cost of living is going up around 3% where he knows they would bock at a sizable jump that would stay static for three or four years. Ms. Presthus pointed out that on page 5 the 18 -hole patron is $27.00 and is highlighted. She asked if that is supposed to be an increase or not. Mr. Va replied that is an error, it should state $28.00 for 2008. Ms. Presthus suggested that under Centennial Lakes instead of saying full it could state a six hour rental to which Mr. Shirley agreed. Mr. Meyer suggested that the words "annual pass" be added onto the Edinborough park play park fees so as not to confuse it with the play park pass for 10 uses. Mr. O'Connell asked at Edinborough Park what the percentage is for resid versus non-residents to which Ms. Kattreh replied it's approximately 75% residents and 25% residents. George Klus MOVED TO APPROVE THE FEES AND CHARGES WITH THE AMENDEMENTS THAT THEY'VE MADE. Jeff Sorem SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. D. Enterprise Facilities Capital Improvement Plans - Mr. Meyer asked if the $30,000 they are looking at spending at the Aquatic Center for upgrades an replacements are dollars in addition to the revenues created by the facility or are dollars being spent irrelevant of what the revenues are from the facility. Mi. Keprios replied that all of their dollars for the capital improvement plan co e from their fees and charges generated at the facility. He added that they are currently at a cash flow positive. Mr. Fronek asked where is the money coming from all of the other projects or all of these are paid for by the facilities themselves. Mr. Keprios explained that each of them are supposed to be covered by the revenues from each of their own facilities, however, in some cases they can't quite make it to which there needs to be a transfer from other funds. El Mr. Keprios pointed out one small change. On page 2 under the Golf Dome the Propane Back-up Inflation System should be $20,000 and not $15,000. Mr. Klus MOVED TO RECOMMEND THAT THE PARK BOARD AP THE ENTERPRISE FACILITIES CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLANS THE ONE NOTED CORRECTION. Mike Damman SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. E. Change Edinborough Park's Private Rental Policy — Ann Kattreh, Edinboj Park Manager and Susie Miller, Assistant Manager gave the Park Board a point presentation that explained the background and logic behind their pr to change their current private rental policy at Edinborough Park. Ms. Ka noted that they are proposing to eliminate private rentals of the facility on and Saturday evenings in lieu of more private birthday part rentals and ge public park hours. Mr. Finsness asked what was the intent of the Great Hall when it was built which Ms. Kattreh replied that when it was originally built it was a multi -f space. They used to have a lot of volleyball leagues and basketball tournai and did some private rentals as well as some City of Edina functions. Ho," the majority of the area was used for general open play. Mr. Finsness asked Ms. Kattreh if she is projecting $75,000 this year for re tals . what was the high. Ms. Kattreh replied that in 2004 they were generating approximately $140,000 in revenues. However, part of the decrease is due to the fact that they have eliminated winter rentals as well as their prices are a little on the high end. Mr. Finsness asked how far out in the future they are booked to which Ms. Kattreh replied they are currently booked with events through O tober of 2008 to which they would honor those rentals. Ms. Presthus asked if they eliminate private rentals what Edina functions w uld need to be eliminated. Ms. Kattreh replied they would need to eliminate the Edina Scholar Breakfast and the Edina Volunteer Reception as well as this year th y are hosting an Edina Foundation Gala Event in November; however, it's typica ly just those two events each year. Linda Presthus MOVED THAT THE PRIVATE RENTALS BE ELIMINATED FROM THE EDINBOROUGH PARK. Todd Fronek SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. F. Edinborou2h Park's Short -Term and Lone-Ranize Park Improvement Plans Ms. Kattreh and Ms. Miller gave another power point presentation that went ov r what they believe to be the short-term/immediate and long-range needs for Edinborough Park. They stated that changes need to be made in order to keep up with the needs of the park. Ms. Kattreh went over the long-range plans pointing out that they are basically an addition or expansion of the short-term plans. Mr. O'Connell asked Ms. Kattreh how much money she anticipates it will cost to accomplish the whole package that has been put together. Ms. Kattreh replied she could give an estimate for some of the indoor needs but as far as an addition to Edinborough Park she has no idea. Mr. Fronek indicated that he thinks it's a great idea. However, some of the things appear to be at odds where the track and weights seem to be more for the adults whereas some of the other items seem to be more kid driven. He noted that maybe the vision for the park as a whole should try to encompass all of the 2-12 year-old items and focus primarily on that age group rather than all age groups. He added that it's just a comment on the overall vision as far as moving forward with this. Mr. O'Connell asked Ms. Kattreh what she thinks the time table would be for this from start to finish. Ms. Kattreh replied some things she can see implementing as soon as next year and there are items that could potentially require different sources of funding which could take a bit longer. Ms. Kattreh noted that if they could achieve some of the short-term goals within a five year time frame that would be ideal, the sooner the better. Mr. O'Connell stated that he would like to see a concrete time table. Mr. Keprios explained there is no easy, quick answer to the timing of this. Mr. Keprios noted that what he would like to ask the Park Board is if they like the direction and vision that his staff has put before you then he would like the Park Board's approval to take it to the next level. Mr. Keprios pointed out that if the Park Board agrees with the concept and vision, then they can start to look at financing options. He noted that this could be part of a bigger picture for the Park and Recreation Department as we begin to address all facility needs as a whole. Ray O'Connell MOVED TO ACCEPT THE DIRECTION OF THE PROPOSAL. Todd Fronek SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. III. OLD BUSINESS A. Bike Edina Task Force Update — Todd Fronek — Mr. Fronek informed the Park Board that the Comprehensive Bike Plan is now done and complete. He noted you can download a copy of it on-line at bikeedina.org. He noted that this will be part of the overall comp plan for next year. He stated that it's a great document and really provides some great vision for biking throughout the community. IV. UPDATES FROM STAFF • A. Chowen Park Picnic Shelter - Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that this project was awarded to Blue Valley Builders and that they just started the renovation today. 6 B. Carnival of the Arts Festival - Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that the Edina Art Center's Carnival of the Arts Festival special event was on Sunday which was very successful and well attended. Congratulations to Diana and her staff on this outstanding special event. C. Open House — Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that on Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. they will be having an open house for the two city gyms at the Community Center campus. Meeting Adjourned at 10:05 pm 7 November 2, 2007 Mr. John Keprios Park and Recreation Director City of Edina 4801 W. 501h Street Edina, MN 55424 Re: Lewis Park warming house improvement Dear Mr. Keprios: As residents of Edina, residing near Lewis Park, we have recently learned of a private project "for a better Lewis Park" to upgrade and improve the warming house. For the record, we do not look at the proposed warming house as a needed or desirable local community center. However, while we do not use the warming house or hockey rink, it appears that either or both are aged and could be improved when financially feasible. We walk daily around the park, year-round, and enjoy the pathway. As senior citizens, our primary concern has been the condition and safety of the pathways, especially 1) to avoid potentially hidden icy spots, and 2) the desire for lighting along the path in the evening. We will not be able to attend the meeting scheduled for the 13Th of November. Please accept this letter as our position opposing the private "for a better Lewis Park" Project. ely, Betty Lind rig 7401 Coventry Way Edina, MN 55439 952.942.0368 Lindberggb@comcast.net • • • November 9, 2007 Edina Park Board 4801 West 501h Street Edina, MN 55424 Members of the Board LEOUGE 7250 Lewis Ridge Parkway • Edina, MN 55435 The Board of Directors of the Lewis Ridge Condominium Association wants to express its opposition to the proposal to replace the present warming house at Lewis Park with a Community Center Building that includes a snack bar/coffee shop. Our condominium building, which was completed and occupied in 1985, has coexisted with Lewis Park for the past 22 years on a very positive and satisfactory basis. In operating Lewis Park, the Edina Park and Recreation Department provides soccer fields (which are also used for football on a limited basis), a playground for young children, walking paths, two tennis courts, and in the winter two skating rinks — one for hockey and one for open skating. When in 2002 the soccer fields went thru their major upgrading, Jerry Brennan, Lewis Ridge's Condominium Association's President at that time met with Ed MacHolda of the Park and Recreation Staff to discuss several of our concerns (principally congregating of large crowds and parking on our private drive). Mr. MacHolda assured Mr. Brennan that the Staff also wanted to limit any excessive congregating and to aid in that effort would not provide any amenities such as additional bleachers or rest rooms. As far as parking on our private drive is concerned, the Staff and those involved in the soccer program have done well in policing this effort and it is a non -issue at present. The present proposal to build a Community Center building, including food service, at Lewis Park significantly changes the nature of the Park and obviously raises a number of issues for us. These include size and design of any new building(s), congregating of large numbers of people, unsupervised activity, noise, and traffic congestion. In addition to the impact that such a facility would have on Lewis Ridge residents, there are several issues that we believe should be of concern for all citizens of Edina.. There are two basic concepts in this proposal. First is the concept that a Community Center is needed for this neighborhood and second that such a Center should include food service. We summarize our thoughts regarding these two concepts as follows: Community Center • Edina currently has a very adequate, well managed, and well used Senior Center established by the Park Board and managed by the Park and Recreation Department. Membership is available for all Edina residents age 55 and older and costs are minimal. • Park and Recreation provides a wide variety of activities for all ages at the city's parks including the golf course facilities. Regarding the latter, a particularly extensive teaching program is provided for youth of all ages. • The Edina School District provides numerous programs for children in the various schools throughout the District. This is particularly true for EHS where there are many extra curricular activities available. • The School District also operates the active Edina Community Center with education opportunities for all ages — from pre-school thru seniors. This facility is very well staffed and effectively managed. Our conclusion is that additional Community Centers are not needed and_any funds so spent would not be cost effective. Certainly this is particularly true for the southwest area of Edina. If any group of individuals feels a need for a gathering place to meet, talk, play bridge — or whatever — the facility exists at Braemar — including a full kitchen for catered events as well as a grill and snack bar. Braemar has the infrastructure to meet whatever needs truly exist. We don't believe Edina taxpayers would, or should, support the costs for any kind of comparable facility at Lewis Park. Food Service • As outlined in the above paragraph, any consideration for a snack bar/coffee shop is redundant to what is provided in a more than adequate facility just one mile away — at Braemar. • In addition, it seems ill advised to even think about a snack bar/coffee shop operated on Edina Park property with two such facilities operated as private small businesses just two blocks away — Honkin' Joes and Edina Coffee. In conclusion, the Board of the Lewis Ridge Condominium Association purports 1) that the proposed project will adversely affect our residents, 2) that another Community Center is not needed anywhere in Edina, and most particularly in southwest Edina where Braemar is located and 3) that it is unwise to consider operating a snack bar/coffee shop on Park property with two competing private facilities just two blocks away. Respectfully submitted on behalf of the Board of the Lewis Ridge Condominium Association, Pilloy President, Lewis Ridge Con ium Association Attention Edina Park Board: 0-9,07 It is our concern that the impending warming house project proposed for Lewis Park will create direct competition for our business. Not only are we a start up cafd and restaurant but also have gone to great lengths to develop our name recognition in the community. We currently serve nearly an identical menu to the items proposed for this coffee shop/community center. In addition, I believe that we have complied with all necessary licensing fees, permits etc. We also have joined the Edina Chamber of Commerece. This has enabled us an equal opportunity to find a successful niche for which to do business within Edina and more specifically the Cahill neighborhood. It is my opinion that utilizing city property to allow any vendor to compete directly with local businesses is an unfair and unpopular proposal. While we are attempting to grow our business, we have only been open for five months, I believe that following through on this proposal would certainly hinder our possibility of continued success. Sind Phil Honkin' Joe's Cafd and Catering 7015 Amundson Ave. Edina, MN 55439 #952-833-1539 OpPhilReinking Owner' STI 7015 Amundson Avenue Edina, MN 55439 honkinjoes.com 0 952-833-1539 Kelly McGinnity Manager 7015 Amundson Avenue Edina, MN 55439 h ■ 952 833-1539 honkinjoes.com Chris Greene Owner 7015 Amundson Avenue Edina, MN 55439 honkinjoes.com ■ 952-833_1539 i Page 1 of 2 Janet Canton From: John Keprios Sent: Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:58 PM To: Janet Canton Subject: FW: In Opposition to Tearing Down Warming House and Replacing with Proposed Structur Janet, Please make copies of this email to hand out at the Park Board meeting. I will also email forward this to all Park Board members, except Ray of course. Thank you. John Keprios, Director Edina Park & Recreation Department 4801 W. 50th St. Edina, MN 55424 Voice: (952) 826-0430 Fax: (952) 826-0385 jkeprios@ci.edina.mn.us From: Lelalulit@aol.com [mailto:Lelalulit@aol.com] Sent: Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:56 PM To: John Keprios; GWelshHome@aol.com; tcb700@yahoo.com; Lelalulit@aol.com; levit002@umn.edu; cimoorel@comcast.net; jlfetterly@rkmc.com; Mjomack@aol.com; gailturnerl@yahoo.com; linda.tapsak@breckschool.org; DPote63007@aol.com; Baabaw@aol.com; jlebewitz@hotmail.com; hmpet@att.net; reshcarlson@earthlink.net; wedorsey@gmail.com; Roarksterl5@msn.com Subject: In Opposition to Tearing Down Warming House and Replacing with Proposed Structur Hello, My name is Casandra Mihalchick. My husband's name is Mark A. Litman. We live at 7227 Lewis Ridge Parkway, Edina, Mn. 55439. We live in the Lewis Ridge Townhomes that are immediately north of Lewis Ridge Park. We are opposed to the tearing down of the warming house and replacing it with the proposed structure for many reasons including but not limited to: 1. It would increase noise, particularly if you allowed music to be piped outside on the terrace. Our homes would no longer have the peace and quiet that they do (the soccer and football games at night are tolerable because the games end early and are not annoying during the day). 2. Parking is already limited in the area when there are any soccer or football games, and the increased traffic would make it even more difficult for us to enter our driveway (Lewis Ridge). 3. We feel this is an unnecessary duplication of services that is already being addressed. Coffee houses and meeting places are everywhere (the High School has a beautiful new area run by DECA, the business students, to address high schoolers; there is a teen cafe at Southview Middle School; the Senior Center has meeting rooms and coffee for seniors; the old Edina East high school, now called the Edina Community Center, has meeting rooms, refreshments, the libraries provide meeting rooms). There are also too many commercial • coffee houses in the community already. 4. The running of this business would require the funding of city employees to staff the Center and increased police presence to patrol and prevent break-ins and vandalism. This, in our opinion, would be a waste of public funds and our tax dollars when we do not want this service. 11/9/2007 Page 2 of 2 4. While it is a nice gesture to offer to pay for this construction, why not use the money to put more park benches for park users to sit on at Lewis Park, build a Nature Center at Bredesen Park in the Wildlife area, repair the broken fences keeping the deer in at Bredesen Park, etc. There are so many areas in our city that could use the money being offered where immediate residents would not be so adversely affected. 5. If the donor wants a community center/coffee house there is a perfect location for one underneath Cucumbers Restaurant at Centennial Lakes Park. It was previously a restaurant and has been vacant for over a year. It is already zoned commercial and has restaurant facilities, an outdoor eating area, etc. Sincerely, Casandra Mihalchick and Mark Litman 11/7/07 See what's new at AOL.com and Make AOL Your Homepage. 11/9/2007 Fort Better Lewis rarx - i ne rroposat Page of 6 i Home I The Proposal I Interest Survey I Bulletin Board �•� .. Wprp31l3U House i3osal X, 301 X_ 11)13/.07 4-4�d ND /-- a ' - 7 ? `� , X x , �, leu.. ,�►�� � .,�� ��,"� ' _ �' 31 i ; t http://torabea lewispark.or ,¢ St:& � � � � `� � `''�` 31/2007 r,nr% getter Lewis rarx - i ne rroposai rage 101 v Home I The Proposal ( Interest Survey I Bulletin Board LewlsCark Warmtnp House ggaMpnt Proposal 31' i %/ov irandioSe 30-1 ; XI/� x i 1 , I � 1 I I i i 1 1 i I I( 1 � I I t . By DAVE HAOE • dhage@starlribune.com ournalist and author Jay Walljasper was editor of the Utne Reader for 15 years and now is executive editor of Ode mag- azine. He also is active in the movement for livable cities. In a new volume, "The Great Neighborhood Book," published in con- junction with New York's Project for Public Spaces, Walljasper ar- gues that strong neighborhoods are the building blocks of great cit- ies and a healthy society. Q So what makes a great neighborhood? A The first fundamental is a ub i ath . 'n snot — a park, a lit- tle town square, even a bench in front of the corner grocery store. You want a place where people know they're likely to run into someone they know or meet someone they like. The second is walkability. It's really hard to build a sense of com- munity when you know your neighbors only by waving at them through the windshield or honking at them as you drive by. The key is to promote spontaneous, informal encounters — that's the building block of strong communities. But here's another, simpler way to think about it: When you cre- ate a neighborhood that's friendly to dogs, it's friendly to people, too. The traffic is not speeding and dangerous. There are green places to hang out and walk So dogs are a good indicator species. '0 It sounds pretty basic. A Oh, it is — or it can be. William H. White, the guy who wrote "The Organization Man," also spent a lot of time thinking about public spaces. He said, "Humans are endlessly fascinated by other human beings. It's very hard to create a place that will not attract people. What's amazing is how often we've done exactly that." Hage continues: Put out a bench, draw a crowd. OP2 STARTRIBUNE.COM/OPINION • SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2007 • SECTION OP 0 x, a b STARTRIBUNE.COM/OPINION • SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2007 • SECTION OP �_)Jmn vAr . q I - rhoo s a HAGE FROM OP1 Q What do you mean? A Well, here's an example. Several years ago, the people who run Rockefeller Center in New York approached the Project for Public Spac- es. They wanted advice on what kind of spikes to put out on the ledge's to discourage people from sitting there. And the folks at PPS said, we don't think sitting is going to be a problem. In the end, Rockefeller Center actually wound up putting out benches, and now it's a mecca, the` sort of town square that New York City has al- ways needed. People love to go there. Q So this can be pretty simple, right? A Sure. There are tons of things that you can do just by getting together with one neighbor. There's a suburb of Toronto called Mississauga, kind of a nondescript place, but a local guy named Dave Marcucci attended a PPS r meeting and he went home and put a bench in his front yard. He was a little anxious . about it - you know, what are the neighbors going to think, will the young toughs start hanging out at this bench? But actually it was just the opposite. The first thing he noticed was older people. Suddenly they were walking around his block because they had a pleasant pit stop on the way. Then kids discovered it — they would sit there while they waited for the school bus. Families would stop when they were out for a walk in the evening. And suddenly this bench did become a little bit of a town square. Or you can use nametags. There was a PPS meeting in New York a few years ago. A lot of people came from out of town, it was their first trip to Manhattan. When they left for the eve- ning, they forgot to take their nametags off. So all night long, strangers were greeting them — "Hey, Joe," "Hey, Mike, how do you like New York?" Pretty soon they were thinking New York is a pretty friendly place. I haven't actual- t ly tried that here in Minneapolis, but it would 1 be fun to see what might happen in your own neighborhood. Q But you argue that a nice neighborhood is more than just a pleasant amenity, right? A Oh, yeah Let's start with crime. In a neigh- borhood where people know each other, where there are people in the streets, and watching out for each other, any cop will tell you that is one of the single best things you can do to pre- vent crime. Then there's the environmental aspect. When people like their neighborhood, they're going to be a lot more likely to take care of it keep it clean, plant trees. And when you can walk places— the grocery store, the li- brary, the dry cleaner -7-you drive less. The average American household now takes, what, 15 separate car trips a day. If you could reduce that to maybe five, then you've made a big difference in global warming, in oil sup- plies. Then there's the way we raise our children. I think so many kids live under a form of house arrest these days — they can't do anything or go anywhere without being driven there. So when a neighborhood is safe and walkable, as impor- tant as that is for adults, it's even more impor- tant for children. Q What neighborhoods do you like in the Twin Cities? A One of my favorite neighborhoods is St. Anthony Park in St. Paul. You can meet most of your daily and weekly needs, psychic needs as well as physical needs, without having to leave the neighborhood. They've got a great library, a nice coffee shop, a nice bookstore, MuffWet- ta, a nice little wine shop, a gas station, some churches. If you had to get in car for every one of those trips, you'd spend a lot more time driv- ing and have a lot more stress and probably weigh five pounds more. Then there's the Lyndale neighborhood. They started the Lyndale Walkers a few years ago — just a group of friends who would go out for a walk every evening. They weren't vigilan- tes or the Guardian Angels. But they kept an eye on things and took cell phones, and they'd call he police if they saw anything amiss. Before ong the crime rate went way down and prop- erty values went up. Plus, they had some pretty rsce evening strolls. • Athletic Association Presidents Meeting Wednesday, October 24, 2007 Minutes Introductions: John Keprios, Park Recreation Director; Ed MacHolda, Park and Recreation Assistant Director; Donna Tilsner, Park and Recreation Supervisor, Kristin Aarsvold, Park and Recreation Supervisor; Leslie Bork, Braemar Figure Skating Club; Sue Nelson, Edina Swim Club; Bill Swoap, Edina Soccer Association; Renae DeBates, Edina Girls Athletic Association; Bruce Machmeier, Edina Hockey Association; Bruce Johnson, Edina Girls Fastpitch Association; Kelly Housh, Edina Boys Flag Football Association; Kathryn Peterson, Edina Baseball Association; Steve Spellman, Edina Basketball Association; Mike Damman, Edina Park Board. Inclusion Fee Program: Kristin Aarsvold passed out a letter as well as her business card before further explaining the $1.00 per participant inclusion fee. The inclusion fee was established a number of years ago to provide kid's in Edina a chance to participate regardless of ability. The fee helps cover the cost for sign language interpreters, one to one inclusion facilitators and other supports as needed. Access to Public Facilities Policies Update: John Keprios passed out the updated version of the Access to Public Facilities Policies document. John also pointed out the • new insurance requirements on page 9 of the document. He went on to state he needed a copy of everyone's insurance policy on hand by January 1St. There was some discussion regarding premiums and Bruce Machmeier of the Edina Hockey Association also raised the question whether or not USA Hockey could put the City of Edina as additional insured. John then asked the question if associations were doing background checks — the response was yes. Renae Debates of the Edina Girls Athletic Association stated that at times the timing was difficult and occasionally when a coach doesn't show a parent has been asked to step in. John also asked about the election process and wanted to make sure everyone continued to use a fair and open process. Facilities: John threw out the question how are we doing regarding facilities? Bill Swoap of the Edina Soccer Association talked briefly about the challenges with space and parking. Having just short of 3,000 participants it becomes very difficult to find green space and parking without impeding on neighborhoods. Renae Debates of the Edina Girls Athletic Association talked about the difficulty of finding the new City gyms. Sue Nelson of the Edina Swim Club loves the new South View pool and also stated that scheduling issues have been resolved with the District. The Edina Swim Club also stated that it does use Edinborough Park and it would significantly hurt its program to lose it. John Keprios then brought the group up to date on the Pamela Park proposal, Bruce Johnson of the Edina Fastpitch Association asked about the High School campus in the event Pamela wouldn't go through. Kathryn Peterson of the Edina Baseball Association asked about the Park Department CIP. John Keprios mentioned that he didn't have it with him but that athletic field improvement projects did remain on the radar. John also mentioned that the Park Department was working with a Landscape Architect on Countryside Park. John stated that we would keep two baseball fields but the Prep League field might get relocated to the opposite end of the park nearest the southwest parking lot. Bruce Machmeier of the Edina Hockey Association wasn't aware that the Countryside Park hockey rink had been relocated. John indicated that it had been relocated to Todd Park a couple of years ago. John also mentioned that the City of Edina has explored the idea of a second rink at either Pamela Park or Lewis Park as well as an outdoor artificial rink. Bruce Machmeier really likes the idea of an outdoor artificial rink. Common: John asked if there was any common items that the group would like to discuss. Donna Tilsner stated that the date for Edina Unplugged has been set and its Monday, March 10th and everyone should plan to take the evening off. Donna also mentioned that there will be a fundraiser Tuesday, November 13th at Noodles where 50% will go back to connecting with kids. Steve Spellman of the Edina Basketball Association asked the question regarding the night and if it could be changed? Steve felt it would be easier if it fell in the middle of his season rather than a time where sports are overlapping and year-end tournaments. Kathryn Peterson of the Edina Baseball Association agreed with Steve Spellman and had put a call into Doug Johnson. Bruce Johnson of the Edina Girls Fastpitch Association brought up fundraising and asked if any of the other associations fundraise? Leslie Bork of the Braemar Figure Skating Club is looking to start a volunteer commitment program and wondered if any other associations currently do that? Sue Nelson of the Edina Swim Club stated they do and Bruce Machmeier of the Edina Hockey Association said they do as well. Steve Spellman of the Edina Basketball Association said do not because they felt people would prefer to just write a check. Topics for Future Meetings: Edina Unplugged. 0 A PROPOSAL TO PERMIT SALE OF NON-RESIDENT PATRON CARDS FOR EDINA-BASED BUSINESSES FOR BRAEMAR GOLF COURSE PROPOSAL I propose that we permit the sale of a non-resident patron card for non-residents who work full-time in Edina. I further propose that this non-resident patron card fee be set at $90.00 for 2008. The resident patron card fee is $70.00 for 2008. We anticipate that by limiting the sale of non-resident patron cards to just those who work full-time in Edina, it should not reduce the value of the resident patron card by creating a greater demand that exceeds our capacity. At the time of purchase, the customer will have to show documented proof of full-time employment in Edina. BACKGROUND AND HISTORY Since Braemar opened its doors in 1964, the patron card has only been available to residents of Edina. Most clubs or leagues that played during the day at Braemar on a weekly basis required residency up until 2004. However, this was not the case with evening golf leagues. The high number of patron card sales was in 1998 when 2,750 cards were sold. There has been a steady decline in the past nine years. This year Braemar sold 1,425 cards. Some of the various reasons for this are: more golfing choices (courses), more dual income earners (with less daytime availability), more leisure time choices and the aging of a population who grew up with the game. The golf scene has changed and we have seen our course move from turning away over 250 golfers a day to an actual need to spend marketing dollars. This was brought about by increase of over 120 courses in the metropolitan area over the past 30 years. In the metropolitan area numerous other courses, including the Minneapolis public courses (5), offer non-resident patron cards. Brookview Golf Course in Golden Valley does, too. Usually a premium is charged for the card itself. In 2007, the Park Board passed a policy to permit sales of a non-resident patron cards for our two executive courses. It was very much a success and we went from a total of 176 to 464 executive course patrons cards sold. The non-resident card sold for $35, which is $10 over the resident rate. The Edina business community makes up a large share of the real estate tax burden and therefore this proposal in a way rewards those businesses for doing business in Edina. In the past, many Edina -based business owners and their employees have asked for this privilege with the mention that they too are paying taxes in the community. is LOYALTY Management at Braemar has been reluctant to sell non-resident patron cards because there is a strong and wonderful loyalty to the facility. Opening the patron card up to the non-resident creates the perception that the "Edina only" golf course will diminish the resident's access, or lessen the patron card value. In fact, we enjoy such strong loyalty that it is often heard that people will not move out of Edina because it jeopardizes their "membership". There does exist the possibility that it could slightly decrease resident patron card sales. Staff feels this would be offset by strong gains in increased traffic from the sale of non- resident patron Edina -based business patron cards. It is staff's challenge to keep our courses near capacity to fulfill our mission of affordable and available golf. After the conclusion of the 2008 season, we will review the effects of this policy and make recommendations. Thank you for your consideration. Our desire is to not have tee times go by unused. John Valliere Manager PARK AMENITIES FOR COUNTRYSIDE PARK Notes from staff meeting 9/14/2007 Staff recommends that the following park amenities be placed in the park even at the expense of other existing or other proposed park amenities: 1. Little league baseball field 2. Prep league baseball field 3. Pathways 4. Playground equipment 5. Comfort station 6. Parking lot 7. Large multi-purpose athletic field OR #8. 8. Small multi-purpose athletic field Staff recommends that the following park amenities would be nice to include into the park; but however, not at the expense of losing any of the above higher priority park amenities: 1. Basketball court (full-size only) 2. Tennis courts 3. Small dog park Staff recommends that the following park amenities NOT be included into the master plan: 1. Hockey rink 2. General skating rink/adventure skating 3. Shelter building 4. Picnic shelter 5. Sledding hill 6. Spray pool 7. Outdoor theater space The following are park amenities that could be added but only if Colonial Church chooses to compromise the southwest corner parking lot: 1. Gathering garden 2. Orchard 3. Community gardens 4. Small dog park Other ideas included: • Removing existing sledding hill and use land fill to create new berms along Tracy Avenue side of the park. • Locate internal parking on west central part of the park. • Include off-street parking on north side of the park by Olinger Road. • Do not include any athletic field lighting in the park. • Include walking path lighting similar to Heights Park. • Small dog park would be best placed on southwest corner of the park. • Pathway plan should include an access for future senior housing development. • Parking lot entrance off of Tracy Avenue may be too dangerous.