Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-05-10 Park Board Packetsc EDINA PARK BOARD TUESDAY, MAY 10, 2005 7:00 P.M. COMMUNITY ROOM EDINA CITY HALL AGENDA 1. Welcome New Park Board Member, Mr. Raymond E. O'Connell. 2. Approval of April 12, 2005, Park Board Minutes. *3. Todd Park Hockey Rink Proposal. *4. Braemar Park Archery Range Proposal. 5. Basketball Court at Lewis Park. 6. Future Park Board Community Involvement Projects. 7. Park Board Park Assignments and Presentations. 8. Future Agenda Items Master Plan. A. Bredesen Park Needs. B. Walking Paths and Sidewalks. C. Edina Conservation League Presentation. 9. Updates. A. Arneson Acres Park Entrance & Parking Lot. B. Gymnasiums Proposal. C. Gold Medal Award. D. Maetzold Amphitheater Dedication. E. Youth Athletic Association Presidents Meeting Results. F. Grandview Square Park Development. 10. Other. *11. Adjournment. *These are agenda items that require or request Park Board action. City Hall 4801 WEST 50TH STREET EDINA, MINNESOTA, 5 542 4-1 3 94 Park and Recreation Department www.cityofedina.com City of Edina 952-826-0367 FAX 952-826-0385 TTY 952-826-0379 Memo To: Edina Park Board. From: John Keprios, Director Edina Park and Recreation Department Date: May 3, 2005 Re: TUESDAY, MAY 10, 2005, PARK BOARD MEETING STAFF REPORT. Enclosed you should find the following items: 1. Tuesday, May 10, 2005, Park Board Agenda. 2. Tuesday, April 12, 2005, Park Board Minutes. 3. Letter from Maryann Martinek. 4. 2 emails from Nancy Webster. 5. Response from Besse Maragos. 6. Email from Mike Woolsey 7. Email from Deb and Steve Spellman. 8. Email from John and Susan Engen. 9. Email from David Musolf. 10. Email from Nancy and Jack Nichols. 11. Email from Mayank Jain. 12. April 7, 2005, Memo to Neighbors of Todd Park. 13. Park Board Park Assignment Sheet. 14. Park Board Community Involvement Survey Results. The following is the monthly staff report concerning each item on the agenda with the exception of Approval of the Minutes and Other. "Other" is listed on the agenda for other information items (not requiring formal action), last minute items that may come up between now and the Park Board meeting, plus, cover any other concerns of Park Board members and/or attendees. PARK BOARD MEETING IN THE COMMUNITY ROOM EDINA CITY HALL 4801 WEST 50TH STREET The Tuesday, May 10, 2005, Park Board meeting will be at 7:00 p.m. in the Community Room 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. WELCOME NEW PARK BOARD MEMBER, MR. RAYMOND E. O'CONNELL The City Council recently appointed Mr. Raymond E. O'Connell to the Park Board. Welcome to the Park Board Mr. O'Connell and thank you for volunteering to serve. TODD PARK HOCKEY RINK PROPOSAL As you will notice in the enclosed responses from the Todd Park neighborhood, the overwhelming majority of resident are in support of the recommendation to place an outdoor hockey rink back at Todd Park. The only opposition was concerning inadequate parking to support additional traffic, which must use on -street parking because there currently is not a parking lot within the park boundaries. If we find that on -street parking poses a serious safety issue for the neighborhood, my recommendation would be to request the Traffic Safety Committee to work with the neighborhood to consider parking restrictions on one or both sides of streets where needed. The long-range master plan should include a hard surface parking lot located near the park shelter building. Based on the neighborhood's input, I recommend that the Park Board approve the proposal to place a permanent outdoor hockey rink at Todd Park. If the Park Board approves this recommendation, staff will build the hockey rink this fall. Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. BRAEMAR PARK ARCHERY RANGE PROPOSAL Prior to the late 1980's, the Edina Park and Recreation Department provided a public archery range at Braemar Park. The archery range, which was free and open to the public, was located what is now the new nine -holes (holes 19-27) of golf at Braemar Golf Course. The elevated hay bail archery range system was a very popular and successful park activity during its tenure. I have received several requests to find a suitable location to develop a new outdoor archery range site every since. I believe we now have a suitable and safe location for a replacement archery range near the new South Metro Police and Fire Training Facility in Braemar Park. At the May 10th Park Board meeting I will show you a site location map of the exact area that I have in mind. I believe there is enough space to place an archery range on the east side of the entrance road and east of the nature trail at this Braemar Park location. To make this a suitable location, the project would require the following: • Architect's feasibility analysis of the site location, including topographic survey. • Architect's project design with specifications, including size and location of parking, location of archery bails, shooting station markers, tree and vegetation removal, and excavation. • Architect's project cost analysis to develop the site into a safe and suitable archery range. I have already made contacts with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and various volunteers involved in the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association, both local chapters 0a and the statewide organization. I have been invited to give a presentation on Monday, June 6, to the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association regarding this proposal. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has expressed their support of this project and has encouraged me to contact their in-house staff architect expert on outdoor archery ranges for possible in-kind support. In addition, the Minnesota DNR also encouraged me to submit a grant request to build the site. The Minnesota Deer Hunters Association has also expressed a strong desire to help finance the project to make it happen. If we are able to carve out a suitable distance and orientation for a safe outdoor archery range at this proposed location, I believe this would be an ideal location for a number of reasons. It would be close to the new Police and Fire Training Facility where we offer Minnesota DNR sponsored firearms safety training classes. Part of the course work could offer hands-on training for safe handling of bow and arrow use. The location is a non-residential site that should not create opposition due to increased traffic or on street parking in their neighborhood. The site should be a very safe location due to the large hills that separate the archery range from the golf course. If the Park Board endorses this concept, I would propose to pursue funding through donations and grants to fund the entire project, with the exception of architect fees. It is my view that we need to fund the feasibility portion in case the findings are that it is not a suitable or safe location; however, I do intend to at least ask for assistance from the Minnesota DNR on -staff architect for any assistance he can provide at no charge. I recommend that the Park Board approve this project in concept so that staff can further pursue the feasibility of the site. Formal Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. BASKETBALL COURT AT LEWIS PARK The Park Board asked that this item be placed on the agenda for discussion this year. I assume that the question is whether or not there is a feasible location within Lewis Park to build an outdoor basketball court. The dimensions of some of our outdoor basketball courts are: • Utley Park 60' X 90' • Normandale Park 60' X 84' • Countryside Park 60' X 84' • Weber Park 80' X 92' (includes four-square and 2 hop scotch) • Heights Park 46' X 31' (half -court size) All of our outdoor basketball courts have a painted asphalt surface with a three-foot wide concrete apron around the entire perimeter, which helps eliminate erosion around the edges and is easier to maintain. After looking over the entire park site, it is my opinion that the only suitable site for a full size outdoor basketball court within the park would be immediately to the west of the newly developed west athletic field and just south of the playground equipment. Another alternative could be to install removable basketball standards just outside the hockey rink boards to serve as a multi-purpose court. The outdoor hockey rink currently has an asphalt surface. Another approach would be to develop a half -court with a basketball standard similar to what exists at Heights Park. Again, the best location for that would be south of the playground equipment and west of the athletic field. My concerns about placing a full size basketball court at Lewis Park are: 1. Changes the character of the park. 2. Lack of adequate parking during scheduled athletic events. 3. Neighborhood concerns about the added amenity. 4. Close proximity to the west athletic field. 5. Questionable stable soil conditions. 6. Funding. This is not to say that I do not support the concept. If the Park Board would like to pursue this concept, I would suggest that we first pay for soil boring tests to determine if the site can support an outdoor basketball court and, if so, at what cost. Second, I would recommend that a letter be sent to the neighborhood to solicit their input and place the matter on a future Park Board agenda. We currently do not have a new outdoor basketball court in our Capital Improvement Plan; however, there is currently a balance of just over $92,000 in our general Park Developers Fund. I believe that the Edina Basketball Association may be willing to assist us with funding to develop more outdoor basketball courts in our parks. Given the Park Board's direction, staff will further study the issue for project costs, soil conditions, as well as, funding options. Park Board consensus is requested on this agenda item. FUTURE PARK BOARD COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT PROJECTS On Friday, April 29, at 10:00 a.m., the following Park Board members attended the Arbor Day planting project at Cornelia School: 1. Michael Damman 2. Todd Fronek 3. George Klus 4. Karla Sitek 5. Michael Weiss After just over an hour of digging, planting and spreading woodchips, and under the direction of the City Forester, Tom Horwath, this energetic group (including myself and Ed MacHolda) 4 planted 7 Medora Junipers and two Merrill Magnolias. The Magnolias are single stem small tree, reaching a mature height of 30'. The Juniper's mature height is 15'. Chairman, George Klus, has asked that the Park Board have a follow-up dialogue to explore any interest in taking on any additional community involvement projects in the parks. As you may recall, the Park Board responded to an email survey of involvement project ideas. The results of that survey are enclosed. The projects included: • Spring Clean-up • Adopt -A -Park • Park shelter building painting project • Arbor Day tree planting project • Neighborhood park input meetings (ice cream social) • Verbal or handout surveys to neighbors in the parks • Buckthorn abatement day in the park • Special walk in the park - meet your Park Board member and neighbors day Park Board discussion is requested on this agenda item. PARK BOARD PARK ASSIGNMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS A revised schedule of park assignments is included in this mailing. For the benefit of our newest Park Board members, this park assignment list was created to encourage Park Board members to visit their assigned parks from time to time and visit with park visitors and solicit feedback about their views regarding the park. Park Board members should solicit visitors for: • Positive feedback (what they like best about the park). • Constructive criticism (what they don't like about the park). • What suggestions for park improvements and/or additions they would like. Park Board members are encouraged to where their official name tag when approaching park visitors. The other volunteer duty as part of this assignment is to take digital photos of your assigned parks, make notes of park amenities worthy of mentioning, and give a formal presentation at a Park Board meeting. Park Board members should check out the Park and Recreation Department's digital camera to take the photos. When done, simply give the camera back to me and I will place the photos into a power point presentation for you to present at the Park Board meeting along with your findings, notes, and comments. Our student member, Jessica Selleck, is on the schedule for the June meeting presentation. Her assigned parks are Tupa Park, Utley Park, Wooddale Park, and Williams Park. I recommend Park Board discussion on this matter to decide what's next. Most Park Board members have already taken photos and given presentations of their parks. In fact, Dave Fredlund already took photos of and gave a presentation of the same parks now assigned to Jessica Selleck. 5 Park Board discussion is requested on this agenda item. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS MASTER PLAN As requested by Park Board Chairman George Klus, the following future Park Board agenda items are listed and shown with my proposed month to place the item on the Park Board agenda in 2005: • Bredesen Park Needs - August. • Walking Paths and Sidewalks - September. • Edina Conservation League Presentation - June. Park Board consensus is requested on this specific agenda item. UPDATES Assistant Director Ed MacHolda and I will give the Park Board verbal updates on the following projects. A. Arneson Acres Park Entrance & Parking Lot. B. Gymnasiums Proposal. C. Gold Medal Award. D. Maetzold Amphitheater Dedication. E. Youth Athletic Association Presidents Meeting Results. F. Grandview Square Park Development. No formal action is requested on this agenda item. OTHER This is also an opportunity for Park Board members and residents to address other concerns. 3 EDINA PARK BOARD 7:00 P.M. EDINA COMMUNITY ROOM EDINA CITY HALL APRIL 12, 2005 MEMBERS PRESENT: George Klus, Jeff Johnson, Mike Weiss, Mike Damman, Linda Presthus, Jessica Selleck, Todd Fronek, Jeff Sorem, Karla Sitek MEMBERS ABSENT: Andy Finsness STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Ed MacHolda, Janet Canton, Vince Cockriel, Larry Thayer, Tim Hunter OTHERS PRESENT: Mike Wagner, Steve Helgren I. APPROVAL OF THE MARCH 8.2005 PARK BOARD MINUTES Linda Presthus MOVED TO APPROVE THE MARCH 8, 2005 PARK BOARD MINUTES. Jeff Johnson SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED II. OFF -LEASH DOG PARK PROPOSAL Mr. Keprios introduced Tim Hunter, the Edina Animal Control officer who has worked for the city for 18 months. Mr. Keprios explained to the Park Board that Mr. Hunter informed him that not too long ago a dog owner mentioned to him that he had a strong interest in an off -leash dog park and would be willing to contribute some dollars. Mr. Keprios commented that there are approximately 1,570 households with approximately 1,765 registered dogs. Mr. Keprios noted that there is a history with the Park Board and off -leash dog park proposals to which a feasibility study was done in 2001 and has been included in the Park Board's packet. He commented that at that time they decided it would be in the Park Board's best interest to wait and see what happens. He pointed out that the property they were previously interested in is actually owned by the Minneapolis Water Works Department. He noted that at one point the City of Minneapolis was trying to lease the property to Edina and found out that Minneapolis Water Works wasn't quite ready to make that commitment yet. Mr. Keprios explained that he has now been told that they are going to make a decision this summer on the site as the result of a study they've done. They are either going to hang on to it for several decades or they are going to sell it. Mr. Keprios pointed out that the property is right next to Weber Park and showed the Park Board on a map where it is located. He stated that this is still a viable option if things fall into place. Mr. Keprios indicated that he thinks they are now done waiting and with the great opportunity that is facing them they should take advantage of it and not wait for Minneapolis to make their decision. Mr. Keprios explained that the feasibility study that was done in 2001 identified some areas where they could possibly put a dog park. However, none of them were ideal but at least they are every bit as good if not better than what St. Louis Park is doing to which they've had phenomenal success. He noted that in their first year they had 130 plus people buy $25.00 passes and have had no complaints, it's been very positive. Mr. Hunter pointed out that in all of the research he has done everyone has had similar descriptions in terms of initial fears having a dog park but when it has become a reality there really have been very few issues. Mr. Hunter pointed out that there was a dog park in California that was concerned about liability and over the course of the past seven years it has averaged almost 3/4 of a million dogs to which they have not received one complaint in those entire seven years. He noted that information came directly from their City Attorney's office. Mr. Klus indicated that in the past they talked about having volunteers help man the parks and asked if that would still be part of the proposal. Mr. Keprios responded that the way it works in other communities is they are self -policing and have found that it actually does work. He noted that maintenance staff will maintain the grass and be sure that the garbage is disposed of frequently as well as make sure the fence is in good working order. Mr. Keprios noted that one site they looked at in the 2001 study was Van Valkenburg Park because it's a non-residential area so noise shouldn't be an issue. He indicated that it's not centrally located; however, it does have just over two acres of property at that location. He also commented that it does have a pond in the center of it to which they may or may not want to have it encircled by a fence. Mr. Keprios pointed out that he asked Mr. Cockriel to find out what the linear footage is and what it would cost to put up a fence. He noted that to add to what is already there it would cost approximately $10,000. He stated that if they have a donor who's willing to come up with $5,000 they could provide matching funds within their operating budget. Mr. Keprios commented that he thinks they could make this happen right away with the Park Board and City Council's blessing. Ms. Presthus stated that she remembers, since the last time they talked about this, that Chief Siitari was pretty much against it and was concerned about who would respond to emergency calls particularly because we were working with Minneapolis and St. Louis Park. She asked if Chief Siitari has any concerns about this new site. Mr. Hunter replied that Chief Siitari has pretty much left this in his lap and hasn't expressed anything specifically. However, he hasn't shown him a plan pending what kind of an agreement they come to. Mr. Hunter explained that the way it typically works in other municipalities is it still falls under the jurisdiction of animal control. He noted that as an example Bloomington and Eden Prairie have both year round sites and seasonal sites and FA historically calls for service at those locations are negligible compared to other calls they receive for service. Ms. Presthus commented that in the past they talked about having some type of alarm device placed at the dog park. Mr. Hunter responded that he personally wouldn't have a concern with that for the simple fact that they already have multiple individuals using the parks at various times and if incidents were to happen there are no current points of communication. For example, if they were to have three individuals running their dog at Pamela Park without his knowledge he's not able to address or respond to that because they currently don't have any additional points of communication. He noted that by having a dog park it won't change the status quo they would still have the same options of using a cell phone and/or driving to the location for service. Ms. Presthus pointed out that her only concern is it's illegal to run your dog in all of the other parks. Therefore, is this something we are sanctioning where we could have a potential liability if something were to happen. Mr. Hunter commented that looking at historical data from other sites this wouldn't be a concern. Mr. Damman stated that he brought that question up in 2001 to which he believes the answer the city attorney gave was it's no more of a concern than someone falling down at a park. Mr. Gilligan made it quite clear that it's covered and not an issue. Mr. Damman asked Mr. Cockriel whether or not he's concerned with the pond and asked whether or not it should be fenced in and, if not, would dogs be allowed to go into the water. He also asked if the water is good for something or is it just run-off. Mr. Cockriel replied that it's a water retention pond and the depth varies over different times of the year. He noted that he and Mr. Keprios did discuss this and it would be his guess that probably at some point they would fence it in with an entrance gate. He noted that personally if he was running his dogs he would want access to it; however, there are people who prefer that their dogs didn't go in the water. He stated that it would be easy to have the area gated off. Mr. Fronek asked how does the Van Valkenburg Park site compare to other parks within Edina. Mr. Hunter replied that, if they were to average all of the sites, Van Valkenburg Park would be one of an average size. He noted that all of the parks have different qualities and aspects to them. Mr. Hunter explained that he thinks Van Valkenburg Park shares a lot of the qualities that he would want in a dog park if he were able to landscape it from scratch. However, to compare Van Valkenburg Park to a lot of the other parks is really difficult because many of the parks carry different qualities and added that cities need to work with the land they have. Mr. Sorem asked if they know how much money this person is willing to donate. Mr. Hunter responded that his thought is rather than contacting this individual he would like to send out a mailing to the entire list of registered dog owners being that so many of them have been asking for a dog park. He stated that he thinks to go to just one person would limit their opportunities and by putting it out there and asking people if they are willing to donate it might just give them enough to look at a second site if the first one works out to be a success. is Mr. Johnson asked Mr. Hunter how he would keep track of who has a permit, would he use an orange tag or something like that. Mr. Hunter replied that he would do a separate tag and make it distinct as well as mark non-resident tags. He noted that a lot of other cities do this as well as they charge a higher rate for non-residents to access the park. Mr. Klus asked Mr. Hunter how often he thinks he's going to have to actually monitor the park to be sure that people really are paying to use it. Mr. Hunter responded that he would do it just as he does now by going on regular patrols which gives him an opportunity to talk to the dog owners. He noted that in talking with the animal control officers in Bloomington and Minneapolis by and large they do their regular patrols through the areas just to make sure everything is okay. In addition if they see any dogs that are not permitted a citation is issued. Mr. Klus asked that in order to get a permit do the dogs need to be licensed in the City of Edina to which Mr. Hunter replied that all dogs are currently required to be licensed by city ordinance. He noted that with non- residents he would strongly recommend that they take care of that within their own city. Mr. Hunter commented that some rule of thumb common sense things are no dogs will be allowed in the park if they are registered as dangerous or potentially dangerous, all shots must be up-to-date and all owners/handlers must at least have verbal control over their animals as well as be able to intervene should any of the dogs not get along. Mr. Klus asked what percentage of dogs in this city are actually licensed to which Mr. Hunter replied it's approximately 40%. Ms. Presthus clarified that it was stated that rather than using an individual donor Mr. Hunter would prefer to send out a notice and ask for contributions if people are willing to donate. Mr. Hunter replied that is correct. Ms. Presthus stated that she has a concern with that because in order to put in $10,000 worth of fencing with matching funds how will we know what amount of funds will be coming in. Mr. Hunter stated that they can certainly modify the terms and how do word notification because there are a lot of different ways they can handle it. Mr. Keprios pointed out that he would like to take the approach of getting the Edina Community Foundation involved. He noted that it's not good practice for the city to get involved in soliciting funds from its residents. Mr. Keprios asked Mr. Hunter if he had one donor in particular that would be willing to donate to get the dog park up and running on a matching basis. Mr. Hunter replied that he would have to get in touch with the individual he spoke with to see where that person now stands. He stated that he wanted to put this on the table as an option so that they are not relying on any one source because in previous situations he has found that relying on one source is tenuous at best. Mr. Keprios asked Mr. Hunter to talk a little bit about the hockey rink concept and how that works to which Mr. Hunter replied he hasn't had a chance to look at them yet. Mr. Keprios noted that might be an easy one after he does some research and the Van Valkenburg Park site gets up and running. He added that with the hockey rinks they could probably implement it right away and it could be at more than just one site. 4 Mr. Keprios indicated that it's staff recommendation to limit at least the first year to residents only because he doesn't know what kind of take they are going to get. Mr. Klus commented that he doesn't know how they would be able to do that to which Mr. Keprios replied it's just his recommendation because not knowing what kind of numbers there will be is the only thing that scares him. Mr. Hunter noted that he thinks at any one time they could accommodate a large number of users in the park. Mr. Keprios indicated that if the Park Board wants to include non-residents he would recommend that they go with the same pricing that St. Louis Park does which is double the price of a resident. Mr. Klus noted that Mr. Keprios' memo states "It is staff's recommendation to approve Van Valkenburg Park as an interim off -leash dog park site on the condition that half of the dollars for the fencing are donated. In addition, staff recommends a resident only trial fee of $25.00 per year". Mr. Klus commented that the only other thing they might want to add to it is to offer it to non-residents for $50.00 per year. Mr. Keprios added that he would like to expand on one point where he uses the term intentionally because if they are going to get a donor of $5,000 or more and it fits within the donations policy they can give permanent recognition. Mr. Keprios stated that if they find out three years down the road that it doesn't work for whatever reason the city reserves the right to eliminate that as a dog park and whatever the donor gave for fencing remains as city property and could be placed at a different park. Mr. Klus asked Mr. Keprios if he is asking the term interim mean a period of three years. Ms. Presthus asked is this something where they will build and hope donations come in or do they get money from the Edina Foundation hoping that it will be covered by future donations. She stated that it is staff's recommendation that the fencing be donated so what comes first fencing or donations. Mr. Keprios stated there are two different things going on not to be confused. First, Mr. Hunter has a single donor to which he doesn't want to rely on that one person. Mr. Hunter stated that he can contact that person to see where they still stand on it. He noted that historically he likes relying on multiple sources but he's open to recommendations in terms of what will work to get the dog park up and running. Mr. Keprios indicated that he would recommend that Mr. Hunter first go to the single source and if the funds are still there then make the request and offer to do matching funds. He noted that it would still be run through the Edina Foundation in order to get a tax deduction and the proper recognition on the plaque at the site. Mr. Keprios stated that secondly if they find the park to be successful then they need to start another dialog about adding another off -leash dog park in the city. Mr. Keprios stated that they are not going to break ground until all of the money is in the bank to which Ms. Presthus replied that was not in the motion but that's her question. Todd Fronek MOVED TO APPROACH THE EDINA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ON GIVEN THAT WE CAN GET FUNDING WE WILL AGREE THAT WE WILL BUILD THE INTERIM DOG OFF -LEASH PARK AT VAN VALKENBURG PARK ON THE CONDITION THAT WE WILL MATCH IT. IF THEY CAN COME UP WITH $5,000 OR WHATEVER HALF IS THAT WE WOULD AGREE TO BUILD THE OFF -LEASH DOG PARK. 5 Karla Sitek SECONDED THE MOTION. Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board if they want to address the non-resident issue now or is that a separate issue. Todd Fronek AMENDED HIS MOTION TO INCLUDE BOTH RESIDENTS AND NON-RESIDENTS, RESIDENTS PAYING AT A $25.00 FEE AND NON-RESIDENTS A $50.00 FEE. Karla Sitek SECONDED THE AMENDMENT. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY Mr. Keprios thanked Mr. Hunter for all of his work on this project and noted that it is very much appreciated. III. LEWIS PARK HOCKEY RINK PROPOSAL Mr. Keprios introduced Mike Wagner, current President of the Edina Hockey Association (EHA) and Steve Helgren, Ice Coordinator for EHA as well as Larry Thayer, Manager of Braemar Ice Arena. Mr. Keprios recapped that at the last Park Board meeting the recommendation made was to put in a hockey rink at Todd Park and to not put $40,000 into the hockey rink at Countryside Park. It was decided to put the hockey rink back at Countryside Park once they have the dollars to redo a master plan and replace the hockey rink in the proper north/south orientation. Mr. Keprios indicated that per the Park Board's request he has sent out a memo to the residents of Todd Park informing them that the Park Board is going to put their final stamp of approval on this and are requesting the residents input on this concept. He added that he has already received three responses which were all positive. Mr. Keprios stated that also discussed at last month's Park Board meeting was the possibility of adding a second rink at Lewis Park. He noted that they also talked about the idea of putting a cover over one of them and perhaps have it double as a picnic shelter during the summer months. Mr. Keprios indicated that he met with Mr. Thayer, Mr. Wagner and Mr. Helgren and discussed how the city could better serve EHA's program needs. It was noted that if EHA's projections are correct they should have approximately 1,225 skaters. Mr. Keprios indicated that they discussed what EHA's true program needs are and it was decided that what they really need is a great practice venue that they can count on during the hockey season. He pointed out that they talked about putting something at Braemar but decided that it would be too expensive because they would have to put in retaining walls etc., and it didn't seem to make sense financially. Mr. Keprios explained that they then came up with the idea of putting something at Lewis Park that could double as a picnic shelter with portable hockey boards. He noted that they could also put down a concrete slab which would continue to leave the door open for artificial refrigeration and felt this is an idea they should explore. 31 Mr. Keprios indicated that he is asking for the Park Board's support of the concept to explore a permanent structure with open ends. In addition, look at the feasibility of putting one of Braemar's propane ice re -surfacer machines at Lewis Park which would guarantee good ice a little longer in the season, however, not a tremendous additional amount unless they were to put in artificial refrigeration. Mr. Keprios stated that what he is recommending is that they do a feasibility study and hire a professional to see what different options they could do as well as what each scenario would cost. Mr. Keprios pointed out that it's going to cost money to get answers to a lot of their questions and that is why he has asked EHA if they would be willing to fund the consultants study to get them off of square one. Mr. Johnson commented that Lewis Park is heavily used by non-residents and therefore he would like to see the EHA mite program fill up the ice time as much as they can. In addition, that rink will be a little more regulated because it will have a Zamboni driver. Mr. Klus asked if they would potentially be adding staff to Lewis Park to which Mr. Johnson replied possibly. Mr. Johnson noted that in the long run it's going to be much better than trying to put in a fourth sheet of ice at Braemar. Mr. Keprios stated that he really applauds Mr. Thayer's recommendations on this topic in that we should take baby steps and not necessarily jump in with a refrigeration system. Wait and see what they get out of a roof and an ice re -surfacer machine first because they can always add a portable system in the future. Mr. Wagner pointed out that it would be very helpful to EHA if they could migrate some of their mite program to an outdoor sheet of ice that they can depend on. He noted that ultimately they would love to have refrigeration, however, if the budget is not there just having a cover over the ice and an ice re -surfacer would certainly be a great help. Mr. Klus asked Mr. Helgren and Mr. Wagner how much EHA would be willing to contribute towards this. Mr. Wagner replied that he has no idea what it would cost to do a feasibility study like this. He indicated that he knows where their budget is and what they have available and that they certainly would be willing to help with the process. Mr. Keprios commented that he also doesn't know how much the feasibility study would cost but would like to get a request for proposal and submit it to a couple of different firms and see who comes in the most competitive. Ms. Sitek commented that EHA definitely needs another sheet of ice soon because with the addition of the girls program everything has doubled and it's only going to get worse. She noted that obviously the perfect thing would be to add a fourth sheet of ice at Braemar but given that isn't going to happen right now this would be a very good alternative as long as the ice is good. Mr. Fronek indicated that he thinks it's great to add ice anywhere they can and noted that they may want to even look at other parks. He commented that Pamela Park has some places where they could add a bigger skating area. He noted that he doesn't see a problem with Lewis Park but maybe they should pursue other options. 7 Mr. Sorem asked what type of hourly rental fees would they be looking at because people would definitely pay to use that ice. Mr. Keprios replied that there would definitely be a rental charge. Mr. Wagner stated that EHA would absolutely pay an hourly rental fee. Mr. Keprios commented that he thinks if they charge a rental fee as well as program the rink properly the non-resident issue at Lewis Park should go away. Mr. Klus asked Mr. Thayer what he thinks about this concept to which Mr. Thayer replied that there is no question that there is a need by the EHA. Mr. Thayer noted that with an ice re -surfacer and protection from the sun is a very good first step. Having anything on a more permanent basis is going to cost a lot more money. Mr. Klus asked Mr. Thayer about the ice re -surfacer to which he replied their fourth re -surfacer is rarely used and therefore it could be incorporated right now. Mr. Klus asked Mr. Cockriel how he feels about this concept and staff wise would he be able to support what needs to be done for those few months. Mr. Cockriel replied if they are looking at his staff to run an ice re -surfacer 12 hours a day for 7 days a week then yes he does have issues. Mr. Cockriel stated that as far as workload there are no issues, they can handle it whether it's one sheet of ice or two. Mr. Keprios commented that he thinks it's fair to assume that Mr. Cockriel's staff would build the ice and get a base and that they would hire a warming house attendant and train that person to drive the ice re - surfacer. He noted that they will not have a full-time staff person sit at the park all day the drive the ice re -surfacer. Ms. Presthus indicated that she would really like to see someone seriously research the refrigeration systems that are out because in St. Paul she has seen it work and it works well. Therefore, if they are going to do a feasibility study they really should add that piece into it. Mr. Keprios replied that he thinks that will be part of the feasibility study to which they could maybe give us some ballpark numbers. Mr. Klus indicated that he thinks Mr. Keprios is looking for a motion tonight to proceed with this concept so that he can move ahead and work on getting a feasibility study. He noted that once they receive the data they can then take the next step. Mr. Wagner asked if it would help the Park Board if EHA would commit to a certain amount of funds to which Mr. Klus replied he doesn't know at this time what that dollar amount will be. Mr. Klus commented that it's hard to ask for money when they don't know how much they need to ask for. Mr. Keprios commented that he thinks it would cost approximately $5,000 to $7,000 to get the job done. Mr. Klus stated that he doesn't think they need to put a dollar amount on it and noted that at this time the Park Board can support it in concept. Mr. Fronek asked if they need to authorize staff to put out a request for purchase. Linda Presthus MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT TO GO AHEAD WITH A FEASIBILITY STUDY AND THE CONCEPT OF LOOKING AT LEWIS PARK FOR AN ICE RINK, SHELTER 8 FEASIBILITY PROGRAM. AND REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL AND WORK WITH THE HOCKEY ASSOCIATION TO HELP FUND IT. Karla Sitek SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. IV. PARK BOARD COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT PROJECTS Mr. Klus informed the Park Board that the results from the survey that Mr. Keprios sent out indicate that the Park Board community involvement project will be planting trees on Arbor Day at Cornelia School Park. He noted that Arbor Day is Friday, April 290' and the tree planting will take place at 10:00 am. Mr. Klus asked the Park Board members to try to attend this event if their work schedules permit. Mr. Keprios commented that if any of the Park Board members do not want to do any physical labor that's okay but would still like for them to attend so that the community can meet their Park Board members. Mr. Klus thanked everyone for their input on the survey and noted that he would like to see these suggestions on future agendas. He noted that maybe later in the year they can move ahead with another project. Therefore, they will put this back on next month's agenda. V. UPDATES A. Koietin Park — Mr. MacHolda informed the Park Board that the bid opening on the Kojetin Park playground was held on March 22"d and the low bid came in just under $108,000. He noted that Koolmo Construction will be doing the project and will start on it in mid-June. B. Gymnasium Proposal — Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that the Planning Commission has recommended unanimously to approve the conditional use permit to which that recommendation will go before the City Council on April 19th. Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that the Edina Community Center neighborhood committee will be showing up at the meeting because they are going to try to do everything they can to kill it. He stated that he has sent an e-mail to the users groups to show up in numbers at the City Council meeting if they want to see this pass. Ms. Presthus asked what is the issue with the neighborhood committee to which Mr. Keprios replied it's traffic and safety. He explained that the traffic study that was done shows that there is going to be an increase in traffic; however, the traffic engineer study doesn't suggest any major changes to roads or signs needed as a result of the increase in traffic. Mr. Klus asked Mr. Keprios how he feels about this to which he replied he is under the impression that the City Council is very supportive of the project. Mr. Klus asked about the cost to which Mr. Keprios replied that it has gone from 5.3 million to 4.7 million thanks to Mr. Johnson and his fellow JPOC members for making 9 some tough value engineering decisions. However, it might go as high as 4.9 million if the add alternate is accepted which would be to put the concession stand back in at the school district's expense. Mr. Keprios added that he thinks this is very functional and is going to fit the program to which they can be very proud of their elected officials for this. Ms. Presthus indicated that she has been getting hit left and right with a block of negatives that has really irritated her. She noted that somewhere the community doesn't know that they have looked at every site and piece of property in the city for years about how this could be done. She stated that people think the city just jumped on this because the school sold us a bill of goods, however, that's not the case and that's not how it came about. Ms. Presthus commented that maybe they need to put something in the Sun Newspaper. Mr. Johnson stated that maybe they should send a letter to the editor saying they have been working on this for years and it was done right, we need to state the facts. Mr. Klus stated he would be willing to sign his name on a letter to the editor if staff could help him with all of the facts on everything that has been done. Mr. Keprios pointed out that for what it's worth the most important thing to do at this point is for the proponents to show up at the City Council meeting on April 19. It's important to have support in the audience because that's going to mean a lot more than a letter to the editor. C. Grandview Square — Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that they are $10,000 short on donations. He noted that the proposal Mr. Crockett made a couple of days ago was if Ron Clark Construction and Opus put their committed dollars into the Edina Community Foundation bank account, then the Edina Community Foundation will commit to raising the remaining $10,000 that they are short by approaching business and residents of the Grandview Square development. Mr. Keprios noted that they will break ground as soon as the dollars are in the bank and they've got a signed contract. D. Term Limits — Mr. Klus informed the Park Board that the City Council has passed term limits. Mr. Keprios explained that they passed a nine year maximum that anyone can serve on a board or commission consecutively. However, there is a stipulation that if someone has ended their ninth year and there are no qualified candidates that person can continue to serve. Mr. Keprios commented that there was also a recommendation to limit the length of the chairmanship to three years. The suggested term of the chair was not adopted as policy, just a recommendation. VI. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS MASTER PLAN A. Bredesen Park Needs - Mr. Klus noted that at Bredesen Park the water quality people have done a great job in getting rid of the duckweed. He stated that there are a lot of people who live around Bredesen Park who care a lot about it. Mr. Klus added that Mr. Cockriel's staff has done some resurfacing in the last couple of years that is now a really nice path. He pointed out that Dr. Hulbert was the person who brought this forward and wanted it to be looked at. Mr. Klus asked Mr. Cockriel if he has some insight on where he sees the vision of Bredesen Park going and what we are doing there. Mr. Cockriel replied that they have replaced another 1,000 feet of fencing within the last month as it relates to the interior nature part of it. He explained that their plans this year are to 10 resurface some of the bad areas around the walking and biking trails. He noted that because of the soil that is there all of the black top has floated on fabric so there is no certain way to ever resurface it and have it last 20 years. Therefore, it will always be an ongoing maintenance issue as far as keeping the path free of cracks. Mr. Cockriel stated that they have also replaced the restroom stalls within the building. Mr. Klus asked if those restrooms are on a timer to which Mr. Keprios replied not but that they will be soon. Mr. Keprios noted that he has proposed that Bredesen Park be put on the August Park Board agenda. Mr. Klus asked Mr. Keprios what agenda will the walking paths and sidewalks be put on to which Mr. Keprios replied that will be a September agenda item. Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that Janice Carter, a member of the Edina Conservation League, gave Mr. Cockriel, Mr. Houle and himself a rather lengthy power point presentation. The presentation showed all of the testing results and all of the graphs that they've been doing to which they had several recommendations for the city. He noted that they wanted the Park Board tonight to take action on one of their recommendations which is to put signage around Lake Cornelia in both English and Russian stating "Don't Eat the Fish". Mr. Keprios explained that a few of the other recommendations included having the city take over all of the testing of the lakes and hiring an engineer to study the water run-off from the streets. He stated that Mr. Houle explained to her what the jurisdictions are as well as who is in charge of what. Mr. Keprios explained that at the end of the presentation they agreed that they had some great ideas but they should serve more as a community advocacy group to educate the people who live around these bodies and teach them about the importance of creating and maintaining buffers. He pointed out that the Edina Conservation League should be a community advocacy group with their main purpose being to educate homeowners about the benefits of clean water. The Edina Conservation League should educate homeowners on how to create better buffers and do better lawn management that is more environmentally friendly. Mr. Keprios noted that he thinks that is the agreement that they came to. He indicated that Ms. Carter was going to bring this back to her activist group to see if they support those ideas. Mr. Klus commented that he discussed this with Mr. Keprios and felt that they really didn't need to take an hour of the Park Board's time. He noted that he thinks the Park Board should gather the report and review it as a board and then make a consensus on what the Park Board feels is important for them to hear from the Edina Conservation League. Mr. Keprios pointed out that the actions they were asking of the Park Board are out of the Park Board's jurisdiction; however, he does think it would be good public relations to listen and let them educate us. He indicated that maybe the Park Board can make some suggestions on how their efforts could be well spent and make it a positive because they are well intentioned. Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board if they would allow him to tell the Edina Conservation League that they have their support and would invite them to attend the June Park Board meeting. Mr. Klus noted that he would be fine with that as long as they stay within the parameter that is set for them. 11 B. Athletic Association President's Meeting - Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that tomorrow night at 6:00 pm in the Mayor's Conference Room there will be a meeting with all of the athletic association presidents. He noted that they have a pretty refined agenda which consists of talking about facilities and overlapping seasons. Ms. Presthus suggested to Mr. Keprios that he mention that they may want to attend the City Council meeting. Mr. Keprios replied that he will mention that. He also invited any Park Board members who are interested to attend tomorrow night's meeting. C. Vince Cockriel's Staff - Mr. Keprios noted that he would really like to compliment Mr. Cockriel's staff and the job they did this past winter. He indicated that Edina had their outdoor ice rinks open longer than anyone else in the Twin Cities area. He stated that they did an incredible job and he received many compliments this year on the great ice that they had and wanted the record to reflect this. D. Edina Police Department/Walnut Ridge Park - Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that they have had someone continually breaking into Walnut Ridge Park and leaving beer cans, pot pipes, etc. He noted they were unable to figure out how they were able to get into the building without breaking anything. He stated that the Police Department used a portable alarm system and were able to catch these kids right away so hats off to the Police Department who did a stellar job. Two Edina resident juveniles were arrested that evening and brought to the Police Station with charges pending. VII. ADJOURNMENT Jeff Sorem MOVED TO AJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:45 P.M. Karla Sitek SECONDED. MEETING ADJOURNED. 12 Page 1 of 1 John Keprios From: NBWebster@aol.com Sent: Tuesday, May 03, 2005 11:45 AM To: John Keprios Subject: Response to Todd Park Inquiry Sir: I received your memo regarding the proposal to rebuild the ice rink at Todd Park and am responding to you as requested. My husband and I have resided in the Brookside-Thielen neighborhood for over twenty-three years. During most of that time we raised two children who enjoyed years of the Todd Park ice rink - even when it was in its worst condition. The rink as well as the whole park (tennis courts, baseball field, open field, and running path) is a real asset to our community. Edina spent good and welcomed dollars to build a warming/recreation cottage; I am unsure how often it is used. Rebuilding the ice rink might very well make better use of the building than letting it sit empty for much of the year. I am willing to support the installation of a good, save, and well maintained rink so that other generations of neighborhood children can enjoy this asset. Thank you for examining the need for rejuvenating the Todd Park rink. Sincererly, Nancy B Webster 4381 Thielen Avenue Edina MN 55436 952-929-3971 5/3/2005 Page 1 of 1 John Keprios From: NBWebster@aol.com Sent: Tuesday, May 03, 2005 11:51 AM To: John Keprios Subject: Todd Park I forgot to add to my response to your request for Todd Park rink support. PLEASE don't just make it a hockey rink. Recreational skating is enjoyed by many of us adults as well as children. Hockey isn't the only game that can be played on ice - broom ball and spink - non -skate games are played, too! Nancy B Webster 5/3/2005 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 Memo To: NEIGHBORS OF TOAD From: John Keprios, Direc r CC: Edina Park Board U Date: April 7, 2005 Re: PROPOSED HOCKEY RINK AT TODD PARK. 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 (2` d floor in City Hall). Thank you in advance for your input. It is greatly appreciated. Page 1 of 1 John Keprios From: m.e.woolsey@att.net Sent: Saturday, April 09, 2005 8:52 PM To: John Keprios Subject: Support of Todd Park Hockey Rink In response to your April 7 '05 Memo, regarding the proposal to place an outdoor hockey rink at Todd Park, please consider this as our support. I feel that all of the reasons listed in the memo are valid. We enjoy the park, especially the warming house when skating at the informal rink. A nicer hockey rink would be a great addition. Mike Woolsey 4536 Rutledge Ave Edina MN 55436 922-0487 4/12/2005 Page 1 of 1 John Keprios From: Steve Spellman [sspellman@mn.rr.com] Sent: Monday, April 11, 2005 1:11 PM To: John Keprios Subject: Todd Park Hockey Rink We would fully support the proposal to place an outdoor hockey rink back at Todd Park!!!! Currently our family drives to Highland Park to use their facility, but would much prefer to stay in our own neighborhood. We have often wondered why Todd Park has been slighted in the past, and encourage the City of Edina to accept this proposal, so as to better utilize the nice, new warming house that the city has already invested in at Todd Park. Thanks for the consideration. Deb and Steve Spellman 4608 Cascade Ln. Edina, MN 952-920-2560 4/12/2005 Page 1 of 1 John Keprios From: Susan Engen [susengen@mn.rr.com] Sent: Monday, April 11, 2005 4:11 PM To: John Keprios Subject: Todd Park ice rink As residents of the Todd Park neighborhood we support the rink and look forward to seeing children using the facilities. Thanks! John and Susan Engen 4/12/2005 John Keprios From: David Musolf [dmusolf@thinkgreer.com] ent: Thursday, April 14, 2005 4:37 PM o: John Keprios Subject: Todd Park Dear John, I received your note regarding a proposed hockey rink at Todd Park. I'm all for it. As a hockey player and father of two boys who will be in the Edina hockey system, I was disappointed that there was not a hockey rink there this year. I support the effort 100%. Best, David Musolf 4504 Brookside Ave. Edina, MN 55436 David Musolf Business Development Greer & Associates dmusolf@thinkgreer.com 612-338-6171 x236 www.thinkgreer.com Page 1 of 1 John Keprios From: John Keprios Sent: Monday, April 18, 2005 2:24 PM To: 'J C NANCY NICHOLS' Subject: RE: proposed hockey rink at Todd Park Hello Nancy and Jack: Thank you for your email. I will make a copy of your email for the Park Board members. Your input is greatly appreciated. Respectfully, 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 -----Original Message ----- From: J C NANCY NICHOLS [mailto:jcnanc@msn.com] Sent: Monday, April 18, 2005 1:26 PM To: John Keprios Subject: Re: proposed hockey rink at Todd Park We live right up the street from Todd Park, and are concerned about the noise and traffic from the hockey groups, especially when they are leaving after 9:00 p.m. weekdays. Other than that, we do not have objections to the proposal. Nancy and Jack Nichols 4524 Parkside Lane 4/18/2005 John Keprios To: Mayank Jain ,abject: RE: Proposed Hockey rink at Todd Park Mayank: Thank you very much for your input. I will make copies of your email to provide to all Park Board members. Much appreciated. Thanks again, 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 -----Original Message ----- From: Mayank Jain [mailto:mjain70@gmail.coml Sent: Saturday, April 16, 2005 7:13 PM To: John Keprios Subject: Proposed Hockey rink at Todd Park Dear Mr. Keprios, Thanks for taking inputs from the residents of Edina living near Todd ark on this issue. stay on Parkside Lane and am able to take my little twins walking without any hassle because there are few cars parked, few people around. I feel opening the rink will take away the ease of just being able to walk with little kids without worrying too much about traffic. In addition, it will make it crowded and busy. Given a vote, I would therefore vote AGAINST the hockey rink at Todd park. Regards Mayank 1 Page 1 of 2 John Keprios To: Janet Ha Subject: RE: Hockey at Todd Park Janet: Thank you for your email. I will make copies of this for the Park Board. See you Tuesday night! 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 -----Original Message ----- From: Janet Ha [mailto:jha@mn.rr.com] Sent: Sunday, May 08, 2005 8:58 PM To: John Keprios Subject: Hockey at Todd Park May 8, 2005 Dear John, Thank you for asking for input on the proposed plan to add hockey at Todd Park. As homeowners living directly across the street from the park, we are strongly opposed to this idea for the following reasons: 1) There is no parking or drop-off circle at Todd Park. Parents waiting to drop off and pick up their youngsters would be idling on the street and creating a significant traffic hazard. 2) The lighting from the ice rink is directed at our bedroom windows. This is tolerable two or three nights a week but would be unwelcome every night. 3) Ice rink maintenance takes place around 4:30 am and is extremely noisy now, as it involves trucks reversing and blaring of back up alarms. A hockey rink would increase this disturbance unreasonably. In addition I find it curious that your letter cites "due to Todd Park's location,...a hockey rink will likely attract mainly residents and serve the immediate neighborhood" since this park sustains 5/9/2005 Page 2 of 2 a steady stream of drive-by basketball and softball playing in the warm months. I don't believe these people have been surveyed, but it would be my estimate that at least half come from St. Louis Park, which the park borders, and Minneapolis. My informal queries at the playground have taught me that many families from the Brookside neighborhood of St. Louis Park use Todd Park regularly. Since your stated purpose is to "help meet the demand for hockey rink practice time" and this demand is coming largely from outside the area it is clear that your assertion is false, and we residents would bear the brunt of the increased noise, traffic and disturbance that a hockey rink in this small park would inevitably bring from outside the neighborhood. We residents already put up with people from outside the neighborhood parking on the street, playing basketball, softball, baseball and sometimes golf (which is not allowed, but not enforced) during the warm months, with no parking area or soundproofing and inadequate fencing so that people chase balls up our lawns as it is. Must we be burdened during the winter months too? The usable area of Todd Park is very small, and it is absolutely unacceptable that this neighborhood park should be forced to serve the needs of the entire community. In summary, I would urge the Park Board members to spend some time at the park during the day and ask the people who use the park what we would like to see. This park is in constant use from early morning until late at night all year round. Instead of forcing us to take on the burden of the use you deem practical, I would rather see a winter playground program during school break or after school since this neighborhood has far more young children than hockey players. The park shelter building would be an excellent base for ecology based winter nature programs, rather than increasing the destruction to the park and fragile creek watershed. This neighborhood has demonstrated our willingness to help with buckthorn elimination and park upkeep. I urge you to respect our position and not commit the immoral act of bringing hockey to our park. Thank you for your attention. I look forward to attending the meeting on May 10th. Sincerely, Janet Ha 4500 Parkside Lane jha@mn.rr.com 5/9/2005 Page I of 1 John Keprios From: Tim Livingston [timlivingston@visi.com] Sent: Thursday, May 05, 2005 2:33 PM To: John Keprios Subject: Proposed Hockey Rink at Todd Park Dear Mr. Keprios, I appreciate your memo regarding the proposed Hockey rink at Todd Park. As much as I would like to see additional activity during the winter months at Todd Park, I do not agree that placing a permanent structure in the park is the way to go about achieving that goal. I am not -in favor of placing a hockey rink at Todd Park. It would greatly impact the natural beauty of the open space all year long. It would hinder the use of the park during the months when a wide open space is appealing for playing ball, flying kites and having neighborhood get-togethers. We have had several neighborhood events, attended by many residents, where the open space is well used for hunting for eggs, or playing soccer. The ice-skating season at Todd Park has been mid- to late December until mid-February. That is two months of usage at best. To impact the park so greatly by placing a permanent structure in the middle of it that would be used for only two months of the year is not a good use of the space. As for using the shelter building during the winter, consider offering park programs during the school breaks, or a weekly preschool nature program. I think there are many creative ways to use the building for the public. I also believe that if the rental fee were lowered, you would generate more private usage. I continue to believe that the public shelter building should be open and free to public use for events that are held for the neighborhood residents. That would provide real and immediate value to the residents, without cost to the city. And in fact, we only know that the building is underutilized during the time when it is staffed. As for how many younger children are skating during the day, or how many people come during the unstaffed time on evenings or weekends, I'm sure there is no way of counting. I do know that my family skated there several times this past season, and the building was staffed on only two of those occasions. Please do not change the wonderful wide open space that we enjoy so much throughout the year at Todd Park. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input regarding this proposal. Sincerely, Jennifer Livingston, 4544 Parkside Lane 5/5/2005 Todd Park Hockey Rink John Keprios Page 1 of 1 From: Christensen, John M (GE Consumer & Industrial) [John.Christensen@lighting.ge.com] Sent: Monday, May 09, 2005 10:28 AM To: John Keprios Subject: Todd Park Hockey Rink Importance: High Mr. Keprios, I am writing to you today to express my strong support for placing a hockey rink at Todd Park. My wife Amy and I have lived on Rutledge Avenue, less than a block up the street from Todd Park, for four years. When we first moved in to the neighborhood, I perceived there to be only a handful of kids living on our immediate street. Since that time, we have had two children of our own. On Rutledge Avenue alone, there are now no fewer than 15 kids, all of whom we see passing our home on their way to the park. In our time here, we have seen our neighborhood become one that is active with the sound of kids playing all up and down the street. The replacement of a hockey rink at Todd Park will serve several beneficial purposes. First, it will help to make better use of the magnificent warming house - a facility which is sadly under-utilized. Second, it will help Todd Park to serve more fully as a year-round gathering spot for the families of this youthful neighborhood. And lastly, it will provide a free, full service public skating and hockey facility for children and adults in a neighborhood which does not currently have convenient access to such a spot. I urge the Park Board to vote in the affirmative in regard to this matter. It is a small expense which will reap rewards for many years to come, not only for the immediate neighborhood, but for the City of Edina as a whole. Thank You! John M. Christensen Amy Christensen Beck Christensen Laine Christensen 4520 Rutledge Avenue Edina, MN 55436 952-848-7759 5/9/2005 To: John Keprios, Director From: Richard Flumerfelt, Citizen 5225 Division Street Edina 55436+1412 952-929-2114 Date: May 09, 2005 Re: PROPOSED HOCKEY RINK AT TODD PARK When considering development of Todd Park, it is prudent to reflect upon it's origin. Todd Park is a filled wetland and as such retains wetland properties, such as poor drainage and water percolating to the surface in wet years. The recollection of an outdoor hockey rink at Todd Park in years past is correct. Perhaps there is no recollection of why the hockey rink was abandoned. At that time, there was normal to high precipitation and the water table was high. Ground water percolated up thru the ice creating domes of brown ice rendering skating difficult to hazardous. It was requested that a Zamboni be brought in to level the ice sheet, but this proved to be impractical. The brown ice puddles had appeared for years in other skating areas in Todd Park before the construction of the hockey rink and they will reappear again if the water table is high. The Park and Recreation Department is to be commended for their efforts to provide the community with adequate and pleasant facilities using the resources available. Continue to be prudent and not grab defeat from the jaws of victory. Page 1 of 1 John Keprios From: Todd Willmert [twillmert@hotmail.com] Sent: Monday, May 09, 2005 12:09 PM To: John Keprios Subject: Todd Park Dear John Thanks for soliciting input on the Todd Park hockey rink. We skated there several times last winter; you are right, the facility is underutilized. I think the hockey rink would be a nice addition. Todd Willmert Find e-mail and documents on your_ PC_ instantly with the MSN Search Toolbar -FREE! 5/9/2005 John Keprios, Director Edina Park & Recreation Department 4801 West 50'" Street Edina, MN 55424 Office (952) 826-0430 FAX (952) 826-0385 Jkeprios@ci.edina.mn.us Memo To: NEIGHBORS OF TODD PARK From: John Keprios, Director CC: Edina Park Board Date: April 7, 2005 Re: PROPOSED HOCKEY RINK AT TODD PARK. 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 (2nd floor in City Hall). Thank you in advance for your input. It is greatly appreciated. PARK BOARD MEMBERS' ASSIGNED PARKS PARK NAME -1 Alden Park George Klus - - -- - - -- 2 Arden Park Andrew Finsness 3 Arneson Park Todd Fronek 4 Birchcrest Park Mike Damman 5 Braemar Park Michael Weiss 6 Bredesen Park Jeff Johnson 7 Browndale Park Michael Weiss 8 Centennial Lakes Park Todd Fronek 9 Chowen Park - Andrew Finsness,------,- I v insness10 Cornelia School Park Jeff Sorem 11 Countryside Park Mike Damman 12 Creek Valley Park Jeff Sorem 13 j Edinborough Park Todd Fronek 14 Fox Meadow Park - Ray O'Connell 15 Garden Park Mike Damman 16 Heights Park Jeff Johnson 17 Highlands Park George Klus 18 Kojetin Park Linda Presthus 19Lake Edina Jeff Sorem 20 fi Lewis Park Jeff Johnson 21 McGuire Park _ Linda Presthus 22 Melody Lake Park Jeff Sorem 23 Normandale Park Michael Weiss 24 Rosland Park Karla Sitek 25 Pamela Park Andrew Finsness _ 26 St. John's Park Michael Weiss 27 Sherwood Park Linda Presthus 28 Strachauer Park Karla Sitek 29 Tingdale Park Mike Damman 30 Todd Park George Klus 31 Tupa Park Jessica Selleck 32 Utley Park Jessica Selleck 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 Van Valkenburg Park Walnut Ridge Park Weber Park Williams Park Wooddale Park York Park Yorktown Park NAME Ray O'Connell Ray O'Connell Linda Presthus Jessica Selleck Jessica Selleck _ Andrew Finsness Karla Sitek PARK BOARD PARK ASSIGNMENTS NAME PARK PARK ADDRESS 1 Mike Damman Birchcrest Park 6016 Hansen Rd. 2 Mike Damman Countryside Park 6240 Tracy Ave.So. 3 Mike Damman Garden Park 5520 Hansen Rd. 4 Mike Damman Tingdale Park 59th and Tingdale Ave. 5 Andrew Finsness Arden Park 5230 Minnehaha Blvd. 6 Andrew Finsness Chowen Park 5700 Chowen Ave.So. 7 Andrew Finsness Pamela Park 5900 Park Place 8 Andrew Finsness York Park 5448 York Ave.So. 9 Jessica Selleck Tupa Park 4918 Eden Ave. 10 Jessica Selleck Utley Park 50th and Wooddale Ave. 11 Jessica Selleck Wooddale Park Wooddale Ave. and 50th St. 12 Jessica Selleck Williams Park 50th St. and Browndale Ave. 13 Todd Fronek Arneson Acres Park 4711 West 70th St. 14 Todd Fronek Centennial Lakes Park 7479 France Ave.So. 15 Todd Fronek Edinborough Park 7700 York Ave.So. 16 Ray O'Connell Fox Meadow Park Blake Rd. and Fox Meadow Lane 17 Ray O'Connell Van Valkenburg Park 4935 Lincoln Dr.So. 18 Ray O'Connell Walnut Ridge Park 5801 Londonderry Rd. 19 Jeff Johnson Bredesen Park Vernon Ave. and Olinger Blvd. 20 Jeff Johnson Heights Park 5500 West 66th St. 21 Jeff Johnson Lewis Park Cahill Rd. and Dewey Hill Rd. 22 George Klus Alden Park 6750 Belmore Lane 23 George Klus Highlands Park 5200 Doncaster Way 24 George Klus Todd Park 4429 Vandervork Ave.So. 25 Linda Presthus Kojetin Park 4201 West 44th St. 26 Linda Presthus McGuire Park 69th St. and McGuire Rd. 27 Linda Presthus Sherwood Park Sherwood and Edenmoor St. 28 Linda Presthus Weber Park 4115 Grimes Ave.So. PARK Rosland Park Strachauer Park Yorktown Park Braemar Park St. John's Park Normandale Park Browndale Park Cornelia School Park Creek Valley Lake Edina Park Melody Lake Park PARK ADDRESS 4300 West 66th St. 6200 Beard Ave. 73rd St. and York Ave. Southwest corner of Edina West 60th St. and St.John's Ave. 6501 Warren Ave.So. 4510 Browndale Ave. 7142 Cornelia Dr. Gleason Rd. and 64th St. 4400 Parklawn Ave. 5601 Melody Lake Dr. NAME 29 Karla Sitek 30 Karla Sitek 31 Karla Sitek 32 Michael Weiss 33 Michael Weiss 34 Michael Weiss 35 Michael Weiss 36 Jeff Sorem 37 Jeff Sorem 38 Jeff Sorem 39 Jeff Sorem PARK Rosland Park Strachauer Park Yorktown Park Braemar Park St. John's Park Normandale Park Browndale Park Cornelia School Park Creek Valley Lake Edina Park Melody Lake Park PARK ADDRESS 4300 West 66th St. 6200 Beard Ave. 73rd St. and York Ave. Southwest corner of Edina West 60th St. and St.John's Ave. 6501 Warren Ave.So. 4510 Browndale Ave. 7142 Cornelia Dr. Gleason Rd. and 64th St. 4400 Parklawn Ave. 5601 Melody Lake Dr. U) C (n J � �1 C 0 4z c O >1 � 7D O C C Q C LL N M It LO U') in �t r` r M I` CO r- CO I` N W N 00 M M \�O I` w CO LO N m It V. - 't M N 00 r + I` V) �,c :� l� �• V'� �--� V) a0 M �t � M r••� 00 00 N 00 U) cd N ^ U O x ^ N O �+ ' O N) ¢ U O "C Q. bbA N g. bQ •� C �� �. O U � CL N 4-1 00 cid -am � ... cd 00 cd aS U a Q 0 0 0 bA cz 7d N ¢, 4d 't P, cnQa¢�z>GAvn a> 2) 0.2 a) Y N —� O 1.0 zt N in 00 I` M :� l� �• V'� �--� N a0 M �t � M r••� 00 00 N 00 U) cd ^ � U N O �+ U 0 N O CL 4-1 00 cd cd aS U a Q 0 0 0 on cz N ¢, 4d 't P, �¢a�z>r�� t� In partership with the National Recreation and Park Association 22377 Belmont Rid110 90i A 20� O o q ///f oe q ANO!<<FMCE NTME ��V�� �CRETION V AMERICANACADEMY for PARK and RECREATION ADMINISTRATION NATIONAL GOLD MEDAL AWARD PROGRAM Thursday, April 21, 2005 Mr. John Keprios Edina Parks and Recreation Department 4801 West 50th St. Edina, MN 55424 Dear Gold Medal Participant: On behalf of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA), the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), Porter Athletic Equipment Co., and Musco Lighting LLC, thank you for participating in the 2005 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. While you were not selected as a finalist for this year, the important contributions of your agency to parks and recreation are recognized and appreciated. We thank you for your efforts in compiling your Gold Medal application, and hope that you will participate again in 2006. Sincerely, fl Z Amy Kapp Awards Coordinator Enclosure 2005 Gold Medal Finalists Press Release ge Road, Ashburn VA 20148-4501 703-858-0784 GOLD A41 0. 4 Z IN iryO H.. �tP �fHMN•APN� AkAMERICAN A CADEMYfor PARK and RECREA TION ADMINISTRA TION NATIONAL GOLD MEDAL AWARD PROGRAM Media Contact: Amy Kapp National Recreation and Park Association (703) 858-2190 akapp( ,nrpa.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Finalists Announced for the 2005 National Gold Medal Awards AAPRA and NRPA Select the Agencies to Compete for Grand Honors Ashburn, Va., April 2005 — The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is proud to announce the finalists for the 2005 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. Proud sponsors of the Gold Medals include Porter Athletic Equipment Company and Musco Lighting LLC. The 2005 Gold Medal finalists are: Class I (population 250,000 and over) City of Long Beach Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine, Long Beach, Calif. County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation, San Diego, Calif. Indianapolis Department of Parks and Recreation, Indianapolis, Ind. Saint Paul Parks and Recreation, Saint Paul, Minn. Class II (population 100,001— 250,000) City of Bellevue Parks and Community Services Department, Bellevue, Wash. City of Peoria Community Services Department, Peoria, Ariz. City of Westminster Department of Parks, Recreation and Libraries, Westminster, Colo. N A Lake Metroparks, Concord Twp., Ohio • In partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association 22377 Belmont Ridge Road, Ashburn, VA 20148-4501 Page 1 of 3 ""' 703-858-0784 Class III (population 50,001-100,000) Bend Metro Park and Recreation District, Bend, Ore. Bolingbrook Park District, Bolingbrook, Ill. Foothills Park and Recreation District, Littleton, Colo. Wheaton Park District, Wheaton, Ill. Class IV (population 25,001— 50,000) City and County of Broomfield Recreation Services, Broomfield, Colo. Homewood-Flossmoor Park District, Flossmoor, Ill. James City County Parks and Recreation, Williamsburg, Va. Town of Leesburg Department of Parks and Recreation, Leesburg, Va. Class V (population less than 25,000) Bloomingdale Park District, Bloomingdale, Ill. City of Lake Forest Parks and Recreation, Lake Forest, Ill. City of North Platte Leisure and Public Services, North Platte, Neb. Frankfort Square Park District, Frankfort, 111. State Park Systems Florida State Parks, Florida Department of Environmental Protection Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Division of State Parks North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation The Gold Medals honor communities throughout the United States that demonstrate excellence in long-range planning, resource management, citizen support systems, environmental stewardship, program development, professional development, and agency recognition. Each agency is judged on its ability to address the needs of those it serves through the collective energies of citizens, staff and elected officials. Page 2 of 3 A panel of five parks and recreation professionals reviews and judges all application materials. Judges are chosen for their considerable experiences and knowledge in parks and recreation on both local and national levels. This year's finalists will compete for Grand Award honors this spring, and all winners will be announced live on stage at NRPA's Annual Congress & Exposition Opening General Session in San Antonio, Texas in October. For information on the Gold Medals for 2005, contact NRPA Awards Coordinator Amy Kapp at akapp(a?nrpa.or2 or (703) 858-2190. For online information, go to the National Recreation and Park Association website at www.nrpa.orE/awards or the Academy for Park and Recreation Administration website at www.rpts.tamu.edu/aapra. The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration is a non-profit organization founded to advance knowledge related to the administration of recreation and parks; to encourage scholarly efforts by both practitioners and educators that would enhance the practice of park and recreation administration; to promote broader public understanding of the importance of parks and recreation to the public good; and, to conduct research, publish scholarly papers, and sponsor seminars related to the advancement of park and recreation administration. The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people. Through a network of more than 19,000 citizens and recreation and park professionals, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy lifestyles, recreation initiatives, and conservation of natural and cultural resources. Headquartered in Ashburn, Va., NRPA works closely with local, state, and national agencies, citizen groups and corporations to carry out its objectives. Priorities include advocating favorable legislation and public policy, continuing education for park and recreation professionals and citizens, professional certification and university accreditation, research and technical assistance, and increasing public awareness of the importance of parks and recreation. For more information, visit www.nma.org. Page 3 of 3 Summary of Tree Work Performed by City Personal February 25, to December 2, 2004 Compiled and Written by Mark Spain TOTAL NUMBER OF JOB ORDERS 249 TREES TRIMMMED 360 TREES REMOVED 436 TREES PLANTED 24 (A) TREES TRIMMED 72 JOB ORDERS 360 TRIMS Maintenance 46 Job Orders 263 Trims 44 Ash 67 Buckthorn 11 White Pine 1 Red Oak 4 Basswood 14 Willow 8 Cottonwoods 14 Boxelders 1 Spruce 17 Elms 14 Hackberry 7 Apple 2 Russian Olive 24 Silver Maple 12 Scotch pine 8 Burr Oak 5 Locust 6 Amur Maple 2 Catelpa 2 Cedar Storm Damage 14 Jobs 29 Trees 7 Willow 7 Elms 3 Boxelder 8 Ash 4 Red Oak Creek Jobs 5 Jobs 14 Trees 5 Boxelder 4 Cottonwood 2 Elm 3 Ash Clear View Jobs 7 Jobs 54 Trees 7 Boxelder 18 Buckthorn 18 Willow 8 Elm 1 Red Oak 2 Basswood (B) TREE REMOVALS 122 JOB ORDERS 438 TREES Dutch Elm Disease Removals 77 Job Orders 233 Trees 233 Trees 2823" Oak Wilt Disease Removals 3 Trees 81" Dead, Hazard, or Declinin 202 trees 1415" 12 Willow 228" 1 Catalpa 5 Red Oak 131" 1 Fraiser Fur 4" 38 Red Maple 120" 7 Cottonwood 82" 2 Apple 12" 12 Elm 42" 68 Buckthorn 181" STUMP REMOVALS 1 Maple 1 White Spruce 1 Ash PLANTING JOBS 2 Magnolia 3 Austrian Pine 1 Northwood Maple BRUSH PILE LOADS OF MULCH 100 Yards 3 Job Orders 3 Trees 42 Jobs 202 Trees 17 Boxelder 159" 3 Hackberry 14" 1 Poplars 20" 1 Black Willow 15" 8 White Spruce 118" 5 White Pine 38 27 Ash 144" 2 Scotch Pine 18" 7 Cedar 59" 2 Mulberry 20" 1 Russian Olive 8" 2 Linden 28" 19 Sugar Maple 93" 2 Aspen 22" 4 JOBS 19 TREES 3 White Pine 1 Apple 2 White Oak 10 Buckthorn 7 JOBS 24 TREES 6 Burr Oak 10 Black Hill Spruce 2 Arborvitae PICK UPS 39 JOB ORDERS DELIVERED 5 LOADS To: John Keprios, Director, Edina Park & Recreation Department Cc: James Hovland, Mayor, City of Edina Edina City Council Scot Housh Alice Hubert Linda Masica Ann Swenson Edina Park Board Mike Damman Andy Fisness Todd Fronek Jeff Johnson Alice Hulbert George Klus Linda Presthus Jessica Selleck Karla Sitek Jeff Sorem Mike Weiss From: CONCERNED NEIGHBORS OF TODD PARK We offer the attached petition as partial feedback to your letter of April 7, 2005 describing a proposal for a hockey rink in Todd Park. The overwhelming majority of Todd Park neighbors object to the proposal. While a number of neighbors may have submitted feedback independently, the attached demonstrates a position of solidarity of the neighborhood against the proposal. We anticipate forwarding additional signatures in advance of the meeting of the Park Board next Tuesday, May 10th. To: John Keprios, Director Edina Park & Recreation Department Cc: City of Edina Park Board From: CONCERNED NEIGHBORS OF TODD PARK Date: April 20, 2005 Re: PROPOSED HOCKEY RINK AT TODD PARK The undersigned strongly object to the proposal outlined in your letter of April 7, 2005 for establishing a hockey rink in Todd Park. While difficult to respond to the vague proposal contained in your letter, we assume for purposes of this petition that the proposal involves a permanent surface surrounded by a permanent board structure. The neighbors of Todd Park take a very active role in the care & upkeep of the Park. A recent example is the large number of volunteers involved in last fall's Buckthorn eradication efforts. Neighbors also routinely police & cleanup Park grounds to maintain its suitability for family use. While we support the Edina's interest in increasing rink availability, we strongly object to the use of Todd Park as the locale for, among other reasons, the following: EROSION OF FAMILY USE PARK SPACE Todd Park is currently highly utilized, particularly in the summer months. An additional ' permanent structure in the Park would eliminate a large swath of field that receives significant summer -time use by families attempting to keep children from harm's way of, or interfering with, the other organized sports activities in the park such as softball, basketball, tennis and the bike path. An additional permanent structure in this location would, in essence, transform the land from a neighborhood park into a city sports facility. SAFETY IMPACT OF INCREASED TRAFFIC Safety is a major concern to all of us in the neighborhood — Todd Park is a small park, with short, dead-end streets on its east & west sides. The Park is bordered on its north by an apartment complex catering to the elderly. Division Street, the Parks south border is subject to heavy traffic use by neighborhoods to the west. The on the west side of the park, Vandervork Avenue is already a very busy street, filled with activity of cars filled with children and parents utilizing the playground area, basketball courts and softball field. The high vehicle traffic is already unnerving for parents of young children in the surrounding area. We do not consider increased traffic a positive impact to our neighborhood. LACK OF PARKING Previous proposals from the city included the addition of a parking lot to compensate for the additional usage. A parking lot would not diminish the traffic concern, and would further erode the availability of grassy areas for picnics and other family activities. We certainly do not need further pavement of paradise to put up a parking lot. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Todd Park is within the Minnehaha Watershed and drains directly into the Minnehaha Creek. The current drain system in the park leaves much to be desired. The Minnehaha Watershed District was not aware of this proposal, and had not been asked to conduct an environmental impact assessment. The District's input on this proposal is essential. In addition, the location of the rink in the watershed will likely lead to continual movement of the rink foundation, requiring constant & costly repair. APPARENT LACK OF PLANNING No Park Board vote should occur until the Board & the public are presented with a detailed study showing, at a minimum, the expected environmental, traffic & safety impact of the proposal. Investment in Todd Park would be better directed to planting of new trees to replace the very old and damaged trees which are currently at risk. It would also be nice if the city would assist in our efforts to clear out the buckthorn. The park shelter building does get a fair amount of usage, but just as the hockey rink was suggested, and rejected, a few years ago, so was the building. It is a shelter the city built without the support of the neighborhood and is now trying to boost its usage to support its existence. The neighbors of Todd Park care very much about the park and have asked for support from our city officials in the past, only to be disappointed, we hope that will not be the case again. We understand there is a need for additional hockey rinks in Edina and hope that there is another park facility that can provide you with more appropriate space. .:.., r . �r NAME ADDRESS � � � e �Uo ►� lam. f 11Av'4z�- li ' Q ?a,� -� t) Ak/h -7 A L�, woo J 4,, ic,,/� Ze L,, i 5.93C OoW-YWMD KOAD L c K ►D L �r NAME ADDRESS jv�-� Av. qq13 pu+fel)ae i A L�4�\ro •r � ' 461 -53 4- 145 _NAME ADDRESS &tA'sJcl-, C",-, 25 C1 G 22- 1 C) 6�9 AIM4W z '(a e2 145 NAME 6"l-f-Acto, leff S ADDRESS liq ts C'u. t2 12. ("A q < Cl A ;p ell O -x 4-5 i 3 61 o ed vu .j4 tso I 4,s'i�, �,roo�.s"14 Avc, ;p iNAME ADDRESS "1 mam,