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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000-05-09 Park Board Packet• EDINA PARK BOARD TUESDAY, MAY 9, 2000 7:30 P.M. COUNCIL CHAMBERS EDINA CITY HALL AGENDA *1. Approval of Tuesday, April 11, 2000, Park Board Minutes 2. Youth Athletic Association Presentations: A. Edina Soccer Association - Pete Anderson. B. Edina Basketball Association - Gregg Bjork. C. Edina Youth Softball Association - Josephine Kleiber. City of Edina 3. Updates: A. Grandview Square - Sherwood Park. B. City/School Referendum Update. C. Skate Park. D. Off -leash Dog Site, E. Lewis Park Bandy Rink/Soccer Field Study. F. Revised Park Board Meeting Schedule Reminder (Wed., Sept. 13). *4. Pamela Park Storm Water Retention Pond Proposal. *5. Donations/Memorials Policy. *6. Two Youth Park Board Positions Proposal. 7. Other *8. Adjournment. * These are agenda items that require or request Park Board action. City Hall (612) 927-8861 4801 WEST 50TH STREET FAX (612) 826-0390 EDINA, MINNESOTA 55424-1394 TDD (612) 826-0379 Memo To: Edina Park Board. From: John Keprios, Directcj U vp Edina Park and Recreati n Department Date: May 3, 2000 Re: MAY 9, 2000, PARK BOARD MEETING STAFF REPORT. Enclosed you should find the following items: 1. Tuesday, May 9, 2000, Park Board Agenda. 2. Tuesday, April 11, 2000, Park Board Minutes. 3. E-mail from Jennifer Janovy. 4. Edina Hornet Boys Rugby Club Information. 5. Thomas Horwath's Annual Year End Shade Tree Report - 1999. 6. Revised Park Board Meeting Calendar. 7. Letter from Mr. John Alt. 8. Connecting With Kids Vision. 9. Letter to Joan Niemiec from John Keprios. 10. Letter to Joan Niemiec from Cindy Walsh. 11. Newspaper Articles Regarding Off -leash Dog Site. 12. List of Edina Park and Recreation Department Donations. 13. Decisions Resources 2000 City of Edina Study Executive Summary. REMINDER: THIS MEETING IS AT CITY HALL STAFF REPORT 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. YOUTH ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION PRESENTATIONS As per the Park Board's request, I have invited and scheduled all youth athletic associations to attend a Park Board meeting to give a brief presentations about their program and share their needs with the Park board. This also gives us the opportunity to ask what more we can do to support their program. This meeting will entertain three youth athletic associations: A. Edina Soccer Association - Pete Anderson. B. Edina Basketball Association - Gregg Bjork. C. Edina Youth Softball Association - Josephine Kleiber. Park Board action is not requested on this agenda item. UPDATES I will give the Park Board a verbal update on the following issues: A. Grandview Square - Sherwood Park. B. City/School Referendum Update. C. Skate Park. D. Off -leash Dog Site. E. Revised Park Board Meeting Schedule Reminder (Wed., Sept. 13). Park Board action is not requested on this agenda item. PAMELA PARK STORM WATER RETENTION POND PROPOSAL In the April Park Board packet, you received a copy of a memo from Wayne Houle, Assistant City Engineer, and two maps outlining the Engineering Department's proposals for their sanitary sewer project, storm water quality ponds project, and their effects on Pamela Park and Strachauer Park. Mr. Houle will be in attendance at the May Park Board meeting to further explain the projects and their effects on the two parks. The proposed storm water retention ponds in Pamela Park will essentially convert green space into storm water ponds. One of the drawbacks of the proposed retention pond on the north side of 58`" Street is that it will eliminate the ability to use the open space for field sports practices or open play as was used in the past. That area, which is less than 2 acres in size, has never been a scheduled field, however, it has been used for various field sports training. There is an underground storm water retention tank on that site that was installed two years ago. As a result, there is permanent control and access equipment placed on the site that creates an interference with the park's use as a practice site for field sports. The addition of a storm water retention pond will completely eliminate the site's use as a practice or training area. The amount of use that the site has received in the past for practice, training, open play (picnics and other passive park use) is difficult to quantify. In the past two years, the turf conditions have been extremely poor to a point where there has been virtually no active or passive use of the open space. Even with that scenario, I have not received any community input regarding the unplayable condition of the site. One of the major drawbacks of the proposed storm water retention ponds on the south side of 58" Street are primarily the loss of a few mature trees. Thankfully, trees are a renewable resource that have a limited life span, however, it will take several years for newly planted trees to reach their maturity. It could be argued that the other drawback is the loss of open green space for passive park use. Again, it is difficult to quantify the amount of passive use that area has received. The Pamela Park neighborhood is in support of this proposed project. It is safe to say that the neighborhood residents are strong advocates of the project. The sanitary sewer lines to be trenched through Pamela Park and Strachauer Park will have very little or no long lasting effects on the parks' uses. In the short term, the trenching will require that the location of the soccer field at Strachauer Park be slightly altered, however, games and practices will not be compromised. Any damaged irrigation lines will be immediately repaired and all disturbed turf will be immediately sodded when the sanitary lines are in place. On the plus side, the project includes construction of a new (and much needed and desired) trail through Pamela Park. The path will run from the south end of Pamela Park at 62"d Street, border Pamela Lake and the wooded areas of the park, and ultimately connect with 58`h Street at the north end of the park. The trail will consist of a natural surface, such as, crushed rock or ag-lime. At some point in time in the future, the path could be converted to a hard surface pathway. Mr. Houle will bring a map outlining the path location throughout the park. As we analyze the merits of the storm water retention ponds proposal, it is important to recognize the environmental and community benefits. The storm water retention ponds and the dredging of Pamela Lake are designed to improve the overall quality of our water, and create more habitat for wildlife. Having less grass to mow is also a benefit both environmentally and financially. I recommend that the Park Board endorse the proposal with the following mandates: 1. That any lost mature trees be replaced within the park on a minimum two to one basis (for every tree lost, there will be at least two planted to replace it). 2. That any dredging materials from the ponds not be stored on site within the park for longer than 200 days. Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. DONATIONS/MEMORIALS POLICY As I have mentioned many times before, this issue is about the appropriateness of giving permanent recognition within a park for donations. The main drawback of my proposal will be the loss of potential future donations who will refuse due to the lack of permanent recognition in the park. It has been my experience that in most memorial donation cases, the donor's desire to permanently memorialize the deceased is more important than the park improvement itself. The donations list in your packet is unfortunately not a complete and comprehensive list of all donations and memorials to the park system over the past 50 years. It is my goal to begin maintaining a comprehensive list from hereon. Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. TWO YOUTH PARK BOARD POSITIONS PROPOSAL As a result of the data from the recent Youth Asset Building survey, the Asset Building Committee has identified four action plans that will address the areas of greatest need. As shown in the enclosed materials, plan #3 is designed to "Promote our youth as resources and provide opportunities for their involvement." One of the 40 possible assets identified is to use "Youth as resources" in the community. In an effort to use "Youth as resources," I suggest that we designate two Park Board positions be filled by youth, which is similar to the Community Education Services Board. I suggest that we accomplish this by filling the next two Park Board vacancies with High School age youth (16-18 years of age). There are currently 11 Park Board members. I do not recommend that we increase the number of Park Board members to 13. When I refer to vacancies, I am not suggesting that any existing Park Board member must step aside after his or her current term has expired. I am suggesting that a vacancy would occur only when a current Park Board member chooses not to serve another consecutive term. At that point in time, the vacancy would be filled by an Edina youth. I strongly believe that it is important to use our youth volunteers as a valuable community resource and show that the adult community values our youth as a resource. In turn, we will have taken another step to create more positive assets in the lives of our youth and heightened the value that adults place on our youth. Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. OTHER This is an opportunity for Park Board members and residents to address other concerns. i EDINA PARK BOARD 7:30 P.M. COUNCIL CHAMBERS APRIL 11, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: Dave Fredlund, Chuck Mooty, Karla Sitek, George Klus, Andy Finsness, Scot Housh, Linda Presthus MEMBERS ABSENT: Andy Herring, Tom White, Floyd Grabiel, John Murrin STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Janet Canton OTHERS PRESENT: Ron Clark, Wally Case, Dan Young Dixon, Spencer Marsh, Jack Abrahamson, Jennifer Germain, Mike Madden, Jim Simons, Elaine Peterson, Kathleen Wannigman, Richard Jensen, Susie Nelson, Mary Ellen Pratt, Florence Mase, Susan Burchfiel, Thelma Johnson, Dale Nelson, Garth Dietrich, Pat Olk, Patsy Shaughnessy, Pat Stinson, Betty Heiam, Art Heiam, John Menke, CW Cohen, David Sousen, Becky Langford, Bruce Langford, Howard Bastian, Andrew Kaske, Paula Smuda, Stephen Ullom, Mark Dalquist I. APPROVAL OF THE MARCH 14.2000 PARK BOARD MINUTES Dave Fredlund MOVED TO APPROVE THE MARCH 14, 2000 PARK BOARD MINUTES. Andy Finsness SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED. II. OLD BUSINESS - UPDATES A. Skate Park - Mr. Keprios indicated that he recently met with the park directors from Bloomington and from Richfield plus Greg Hanks from the Southdale YMCA. He noted that they are all very receptive to the idea of a joint venture skate park. He commented that the Bloomington Recreation Department is meeting tonight with a group of kids and parents who are very interested in the topic and have even identified some of the sites within Bloomington. Also, they really like the idea of a joint venture at the YMCA to which they are primarily talking about a tier 2 level where the YMCA would run it, supervise it and cover all of the costs, including insurance. Mr. Keprios indicated that this would not preclude us from doing a tier 1 at one of our local parks to get the kids hooked on it and then move on to the more challenging tier 2 skate park at the YMCA. He pointed out that we may have to surrender some of our park land at Yorktown Park but that will be a subject for another Park Board meeting. We are making great progress and the three jurisdictions are considering an indoor facility. He noted there are a lot of pluses here, in that there are two additional communities who are very interested in coming forward with some dollars to make this happen, there may be some donations that could be acquired, plus the YMCA is willing to operate the facility and assume all liability. B. First Tier Trail - Mr. Keprios indicated that the architect has responded to the Park Board's wishes to look at some alternatives from 70" Street. They have made an alternate route up through 66' Street including Centennial Lakes and Yorktown Park, however, there are still some adjustments that need to be made. He noted that they hope to have this on the City Council agenda for one of the May or June meetings. At that time the architect and the people from Hennepin Parks will give a presentation. C. Lewis Park Bandy and Soccer - Mr. Keprios indicated that at the last Park Board meeting staff was asked to explore some alternate surfaces for a possible joint use. He stated that he took that very seriously and has hired an architect as well as had some soil borings done at Lewis Park. He noted that a third party professional in field construction will give the Park Board recommendations. As a result, we will know whether or not a joint use for soccer and bandy is feasible. D. Off -Leash Dog Site - Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that a public meeting was held in the City of Minneapolis to which notices were only sent to Minneapolis residents even though the property is within the City of Edina limits. He indicated that Edina's Chief of Police did attend and told them that regardless of what they do they have to abide by Edina's ordinances. He stated that the Police Department sent out notices to Edina residents to inform them of the meeting at Linden Hills Park and there were some vocal Edina residents in attendance. Mr. Keprios noted that currently there isn't adequate parking. However, he doesn't know enough to render a professional opinion but he does feel at the very least they need to go through the process of coming before the Park Board and then on to the City Council. Mr. Keprios explained that the people from Minneapolis have not discussed this with him yet so he has set up a meeting with them, as well as the Park Director from St. Louis Park to review and discuss the proposed project. E. Pamela Park Ponds - Mr. Keprios indicated that the memorandum from the Engineering Department is in regards to the storm water retention ponds and sanitary sewer lines that are being proposed for Pamela Park and Strachauer Park. This will also include some pathways that will be constructed throughout Pamela park. At the next Park Board meeting Wayne Houle, Assistant City Engineer, will give a formal presentation to which everyone will have a chance to respond to this issue. F. City School Referendum - Mr. Keprios indicated that he just returned from a meeting with two of the City Council members, two school board members, the superintendent of schools, the city manager and a few others along with all of the architects and engineers. He explained that they have narrowed it down to what is in and what is out of the plan. However, we still have issues to resolve on the memorandum of understanding. Mr. Housh asked what is the situation with the pool. Mr. Keprios indicated that the elected officials at the table indicated that the plan is to renovate the South View pool, fill in the OA existing pool at Valley View and build a brand new 25 yard by 25 meter 12 ft. deep pool with a diving well attached. Mr. Keprios also commented that the dome is included and they are going with option two. He stated that all of the Park Board's recommendations are in with the exception of the lighted tennis courts. G. Donations/Memorials Policy - Mr. Keprios indicated that what this issue comes down to is plaques in the parks. The question becomes do you or don't you want plaques in the park system. Once they are in the ground or on a structure they are expected by the donor to be in place forever. He noted that today he took 11 photos of plaques at Wooddale Park alone. He commented that these are not all necessarily negative things but when there gets to be too many in a park system it starts to become a negative experience for park users and that's what the donations/memorial policy is all about. He stated that we don't want to discourage donations, but he would like for everyone to look over his proposal and think about it for next month's meeting. He noted that he has come up with ways to recognize donations, some of them on a more permanent basis and some of them not. Mr. Klus asked the Park Board members to bring their thoughts to next month's meeting so that a vote can be made and this item can get off of square one. Ms. Presthus asked if there is anyone right now waiting to which Mr. Keprios replied there are some people waiting. He pointed out that there are definitely some people who will not donate if they don't receive a plaque in the park. Therefore, he feels we need to ask are those who are donating doing so to get a name on a plaque or are they truly doing it to improve the quality of their parks. III. YOUTH ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION PRESENTATIONS `e' A. Edina Girls Traveling Basketball - Jim Simons, President of the Edina Girls Traveling Basketball, indicated that they just finished their 2000 season and this year had their largest number of participants at 132 girls playing. He explained that mostly they've been working on trying to enhance the skill level of all the girls coming into the program. He pointed out that last year for the first time they sponsored a summer camp for several weeks in June and several weeks in August and will be doing that again this year. He indicated Girls Traveling Basketball is different from the Edina Girls Athletic Association Basketball, which is a house league. Their season runs the typical basketball season, October through early March. He explained that this year was the first year that the 9t° grade program was turned over to the high school. He commented that they also work closely with Jenny Johnson at the high school. Mr. Simons indicated that from his understanding there are some web sites that are being developed and they will be working with a student who has volunteered to help put together a web site for the Edina Girls Traveling Basketball. He asked if there is going to be any type of Park and Recreation Web site to which they could be part of because it would certainly be helpful for registration, scheduling, etc. Mr. Simons commented that the big issue, as we all know, is the gym space and hopefully with the referendum things will work out. He stated that the Edina Girls Basketball is in support of the referendum and have informed the Park and Recreation staff to call them if they need their assistance 3 in any way. He explained that they are looking at possibly cutting back the number of teams because of the lack of available gym times. B. Edina Girls Fastl2itch Association - Dick Glover, President of Edina Girls Fastpitch Association, explained that it's a non-profit corporation existing to provide a developmental program of an organized fastpitch softball for girls ages 8 through high school. He noted that some of the goals of the association are sportsmanship, understanding fair play, develop the ability to accept victory or defeat graciously, develop the individual's fastpitch skills to the best of their ability and develop team skills, knowledge of the game and an attitude of team participation loyalty and responsibility. He indicated that this year there are approximately 100 girls participating and therefore they are fielding 6 teams. He explained that their season runs from the first week of May through the early part of July. Mr. Glover stated that the majority of their funding comes from player registration fees, their annual flower sale and their three Edina tournaments held at Van Valkenburg every year. He pointed out that one of the bigger challenges for Girls Fastpitch is going to be playing field accessibility, they realize that they are a small association, but in April and May playing fields get very crowded with fastpitch, slow pitch softball and adult softball. He stated that hopefully if the upcoming bond issue passes later this year it will help to relieve some of the congestion. He also noted that one of the reasons they really like to play at Pamela Park is because a couple of years ago they went in with the Edina Baseball Association and donated a batting cage next to the field at Pamela Park, therefore, the players can go in and hit a few pitches before their game where at other parks that is not an option. Mr. Glover pointed out that many of the other communities that they compete against do not have slow pitch softball, all they have are traveling and in-house fastpitch teams. Therefore, it's tough for them to compete every year. However, the last three years alone they have had two different age level state champions, three other teams that have finished second place in state and one other team that has placed third in the state. He commented that they are an up and going program. C. Edina Baseball Association - Dale Nelson, President of Edina Baseball Association, indicated that the purpose of the Edina Baseball Association is to provide many opportunities to learn to play baseball. This year there are nearly 1,100 participants registered. Their goal is for kids to learn to play baseball, have a lot of fun and promote a sense of personal accomplishment in learning the game as well as learning very important life values: leadership, cooperation, sportsmanship, and determination. Mr. Nelson commented that currently the challenge with this many players has been the traveling program, at what age group should we have traveling baseball as well as should we be cutting kids. He indicated that they currently have 13 traveling teams and 75 house teams. Mr. Nelson stated that they are trying to provide an opportunity for all kids to play baseball and the question is how do you select who plays at what level. Another question is how do we find the right number of fields for the right number of teams 2 because more traveling teams have been added in order for more kids to have a chance to play traveling baseball. Mr. Housh asked if the baseball numbers have been growing over the last few years. Mr. Nelson replied that the numbers have stayed fairly constant. Mr. Keprios noted that they have been working with all of the athletic associations to get a registration software package in place where Park and Recreation would literally handle all of the registrations. This way everyone in the community could register for all programs either by phone or internet. He noted that this would be a great service for the community and indicated that all of the athletic associations have given him the preliminary okay on this. At this point, we are waiting for a recent upgraded registration software package to be proven reliable in other test site communities before moving forward. IV. GRANDVIEW SQUARE - SHERWOOD PARK Mr. Keprios went through a brief power point presentation summarizing the Grandview Park/Sherwood Park project. Mr. Keprios explained that some people refer to Sherwood Park as Richmond Hills Park because that was the name assigned to the development when it was built. He stated that regardless of how the project turns out he would like to see the current misleading sign removed and have a new "Richmond Hills Neighborhood" sign relocated more appropriately near the first private property line. He would like to place a new park identification sign in the park so that everyone knows it's called Sherwood Park. Mr. Keprios explained that Sherwood Park is just over 1 %z acres and has a well building, playground area, picnic area, open play area and a non-scheduled ball field area. The park is not scheduled for anything unless someone has a permit for a neighborhood picnic or social function. Mr. Keprios commented that the park also serves as a buffer between the residential and commercial properties. He noted that Sherwood Park is classified as a mini -park which means it is less than 2 acres in size and is primarily there to serve pre- school age children. He pointed out that the larger parks with playing fields that are closest to Sherwood Park are Garden Park and Highlands Park. Mr. Keprios added that there are 11 mini -parks in Edina, each one a little bit different. Mr. Keprios gave a little background on the property. He explained that the City purchased the property and than interviewed and received presentations from a variety of developers. He noted that the one chosen was Opus/Ron Clark, which is a terrific developer. At the time of their proposal it did not include use of any piece of Sherwood Park. However, what has happened between then and now is very important. The library indicated that they would not accept the proposal the way it was originally presented because they wanted to have more visibility and if they didn't get that the deal was off. Therefore, the developers went back to the drawing board and came up with a better relocation for the combination senior center/library. Secondly, the City Council asked the developers to design a "town square" theme to the architecture of the development with a center park area. Therefore, this isn't the developers changing their mind, they are 5 following the orders of the City Council and the current design is their response to the City Council's request. Mr. Keprios indicated that the surrounding neighbors have a vested interest in this development as well as the future residents of Grandview Square, which would include 190 units. He commented that we also have to look out for the interests of the future senior citizens and the future library patrons as well. Mr. Keprios pointed out that they still have to serve the interest of the Hennepin County Board because without their blessing there is no deal with the relocation of the library. Mr. Keprios explained that the reason why the library is a component of this development is because the city has a strong desire to capture the property next door to city hall because we are in desperate need of space to renovate city hall. Mr. Keprios indicated that with the current plan there are a few positives and a few negatives. A negative is that he feels it appears that the playground equipment is too close to the road. The current plan also has a negative impact with regards to its function as a buffer and basically consumes too much park land in his view. Mr. Keprios indicated that in his view the open play area is an improvement. Also, the new pathway system that's part of the project is a positive addition. He pointed out that the access to the town square park will ultimately be a very big plus not just for the new residents but also for the existing residents. Mr. Keprios explained that as the park stands today it's approximately 1.55 acres and after the redevelopment of the open space it would become approximately 1.15 acres. Mr. Keprios indicated that his recommendation to the Park Board would be that we should work further with the developers to explore all of the possible alternatives so we use less land and possibly even not use any existing park land at Sherwood Park. We need to exhaust every alternative that's available to us so that we don't consume any existing park. He noted that this is also in sync with what the planning commission is recommending as well. Mr. Keprios then showed some layouts of the area and explained that if the developers had a choice in the matter they would rather not take any of their park, they are following the directions of the City Council. There is a need to create enough tax increment in the district's remaining 10 years of existence so that we can build a public facility that is needed as part of the project. Ron Clark explained that he would be building the residential portion of Grandview Square and the Opus Corporation would build the senior center, library and office building. Mr. Clark stated that they are marching to the City Council's request and in order to make the financial work they need to create this much real estate value which is approximately 190 units and an 80,000 sq. ft. office building. He noted that these numbers were proven by the city's tax increment financing consultant. Mr. Clark commented that it's a difficult situation to satisfy the city's needs and respond 100% to the neighborhood. Jack Buxell, from J. Buxell Architects, indicated that we need to put some of this into context, currently there are 47 existing residents but we are also dealing with 190 future residents as well as office building tenants as well as other surrounding residents who • will potentially use this area. Mr. Buxell explained the area and noted that it will not only 0 be available to the residents of this community but to the greater community as a whole. Therefore they are trying to provide, in a sense, a very holistic solution. Mr. Buxell indicated to the residents that he can understand their perception that they are losing a facility. He explained that within the context of their charge they are trying to provide uses that are presently existing in the park. Although they can't provide them in exactly the same places, their hope is to provide very similar uses. Mr. Buxell indicated that with the current plan they are trying to retain the uses that are now there with the play area and open field area. He noted that this will also be used by the community of condominium owners in the sense that this was part of the walking path system that they would use. He stated that they would do some enhancements around the perimeter in terms of sitting areas, flower beds, etc., that would bring another kind of level to the existing park facility. Mr. Buxell explained that in a sense he thinks the residents feel they have been deceived. He noted that the initial plan that was proposed literally used the entire park and tried to relocate the park to the center of the development. When that was called into question they came back with a plan that stayed out of the park completely. Mr. Buxell pointed out that in the initial proposal the school bus barn was being moved out and that freed up land to generate additional tax increment dollars which allowed them to build additional underground parking. However, when the school district withdrew their offer, that option went away and they literally had to replace all of the underground parking onto the surface. Therefore, from a land consumption standpoint, this plan represents literally the best they can do in terms of building. Ultimately, they are all in agreement that this is a decision that the City Council has. Mr. Buxell stressed that he hopes everyone can see, in a sense, the degree to which they have tried to work with the existing community, provide for the future community and retain the uses that are there. He noted that really, in the long run, no one is short changed. Jack Abrahamson, resident, complimented Mr. Keprios and noted that he has been maintaining the Richmond Hills sign for years and hangs the flag up and indicated that it would be wonderful to get a new sign. He then stated that he raises the opposition to the loss of a park of the neighborhood for a number of different reasons. He noted that it is redundant that they are up here battling again. He explained that they want a positive site to build on but they don't feel that downsizing the park and adding a town square is beneficial to the community. As they see it there are 47 homes there and to downsize the park and add 400 to 500 additional people who have the potential of using it not only downsizes it in acreage or in size of square footage but it downsizes it tremendously with the amount of population. Mr. Abrahamson commented that it is his understanding when Richmond Hills was developed there was a requirement that there be a green area and if that area is taken away the little community is totally isolated. He noted that from the mailer that was sent out the little piece of green space that they have shown seems absolutely unreasonable as a place where their children and grandchildren can play. He noted that someone needs to think this through again, there has got to be a better way. He noted that's their park, they can't go to another park and maybe that's being selfish, but 7 it's the only green area they have in the immediate neighborhood. Mr. Abrahamson stated that for future generations they need to maintain what they have now for the good of the neighborhood, the children and grandchildren. Mr. Klus indicated that he knows the green area is a big concern for all of us but asked Mr. Abrahamson what else he feels they will be losing besides the green space. Mr. Abramson replied that they are losing a configuration which puts them closer to the 300 plus residents who are also going to have the opportunity to use that green space. That in itself is an extreme competition compared to what is now there with 47 homes. To put that many new residents in that area, from his perspective, overburdens the amount of green space. There is going to be a tremendous amount of competition there. Howard Bastian, resident, asked if the reason why you are not using the approved plan is because it is not financially workable. He noted that as he read the presentation it seems as though so much needs to be done in order for the numbers to work for the tax revenue. Mr. Buxell replied that the initial approved plan did not take any of Sherwood Park because it included a parking garage that would be replacing the bus facility and therefore freed up land to generate tax increment revenues. and then that generated money which then put parking underground. However, with the garage no longer part of the overall project that revenue has to be replaced within the development. John Menke, resident, indicated that he lives right across the street from Sherwood Park and will be looking at a 48 ft. building. He then asked the Park Board to please reject the current Opus Park proposed development plans and instruct them to submit a revised plan that takes no land at Sherwood Park. He stated that this park has been a buffer to the neighborhood from one and two story high low impact commercial buildings which are going to be replaced with over 40 ft. high buildings. He noted that this plan is coming much closer to the neighborhood than any other plan ever brought before them. Mr. Menke commented that he has lived in Edina for 22 years and at his current residence for 10 years. He explained that he built his house because it was near a small neighborhood park. He noted that he used to live near Chowen Park and can't imagine the city putting a 50 ft. building over there. Mr. Menke pointed out that this is the only developer that ever proposed taking park land since he has lived in Edina as well as the only one the City Council that has proposed taking park land. Again, Mr. Menke asked the Park Board to instruct the developers to come back with something different. Rich Dahlquist, resident, indicated that he has been an Edina resident for 25 years and has two small children and uses the park regularly. He asked why would the City Council approve the plan that was submitted last fall when the library and senior center had apparently not been consulted as to whether or not it was acceptable. However, if they did then why didn't they make the adjustments before the plan was approved by the City Council to go ahead. He noted that if this was the plan that was on the table last fall he doubts considerably that the City Council would have ever approved it. He stated that he finds it very irresponsible of the developers and of the City Council, if they were a party to this, to approve that plan without giving the senior center and library involved up front with their approval. Mr. Dahlquist stated that when he looks at the town square he sees that as a "feels good" place from people who don't live in the area. He asked why not take the building that's proposed on the park and build a square condo building where the town square is. He stated that when you look at the southern part of the site there are other ways that the space could be twisted around and re -used and town square could be a parking lot. Mr. Dahlquist asked who will control the use and regulate the access to the town square. Mr. Keprios replied that the town square would become the property of the City of Edina and that the new residents and office tenants would pay a fee to help maintain it. However, as far as controlling access it would be a public park and anyone can use it just like any of the other public parks. Garth Dietrich, resident, commented that he doesn't think it's fair that because the School District won't relocate the bus garage and now the residents are paying for it. They are losing their park to pay for something that the city had approved otherwise. Their property value is not going to go up by staring at a 50 ft. building. Pat Stinson, resident, indicated that if you look at how many condos are being proposed there will be four times as many people compared to how many are now there with approximately only 30% of the land. He noted that is not counting the library, senior center and office building. He stated that it seems short -sided because you think you are getting something for free but by putting too much concentration there you are not getting it for free. He noted that he thinks it would be smarter to cut down the size and maybe raise some bonds. He stated that he doesn't mind paying a little more in taxes to have better aesthetics and a better neighborhood. Again, he noted that it is just too short -sided to see four times as many people in that small of an area. Pat Olk, resident, stated that he has lived in this neighborhood almost ten years and uses the park a lot. He noted that town square will not compensate for the loss of the park. He asked the Park Board to please not accept this proposal. Elaine Peterson, resident, indicated that she feels totally entrapped by this huge, unattractive building. She noted that when Mr. Clark proposed the initial plan cutting down the size of the park was not even a consideration. Ms. Peterson commented that she doesn't know where else in Edina there is a four story building backed up like this into a residential area. This is definitely going to depreciate their property value. Mr. Klus indicated that he appreciates all of the comments from the neighborhood group and from the developers and architects. Mr. Housh stated that there were a lot of issues discussed, some had to do with parks and some had to do with other things. However, as a Park Board we are concerned about the use of the parks, that is our main focus. Mr. Keprios commented that the issue before you is the proposed use of existing park land for Sherwood Park. Mr. Housh indicated that Mr. Keprios' recommendation is that as a Park Board we encourage the developers to go back and look again and try to find a way to not lose existing park space. Mr. Keprios commented that his recommendation to Park Board is to make a recommendation to the 9 City Council that encourages us to work further with the developer to explore every possible alternative so that we don't have to use any existing park land. Ms. Sitek asked whose recommendation is the town square and where did that idea come from. Mr. Keprios replied that it was a direction from the City Council. Mr. Finsness asked what the proposed price range is for the condominiums. Mr. Clark responded $200,000 to $400,000. Mr. Fredlund asked what would be the configuration of these units, two bedroom, three bedroom, etc., and who will be occupying these places. Mr. Clark replied that he thinks it will be a pretty diverse group of people although he feels the number one perspective buyer will be the empty -nesters or early retirees. He indicated the plan includes some two-story town homes as well as a one level flat condominiums. Mr. Finsness asked if there are any laws in place about taking existing park land. Mr. Keprios replied there is an old policy on the books that states we should do everything in our power to avoid having to surrender and/or sell park land. It's basically a policy to give a vision to the future city councils to try to work toward that goal knowing that it may not always be possible. Mr. Keprios indicated that the intent of the existing policy is to have a no net loss in existing park land. Ms. Sitek stated that she has a problem with the town square being used to supplement the land that's being taken. She noted that as a mother of four she knows that the people who will be living in the condominiums are not going to want children running around the square. She worries that this is not going to be park property in the real sense of a park. Mr. Keprios commented that if the town square park concept is approved by the City Council as it rests today it will likely be a passive park, a place for people to picnic, small gatherings and outdoor library classes. It will most likely not serve as an active park. Andy Finsness MOVED THAT PARK BOARD TAKE MR. KEPRIOS RECOMMENDATION VERBATIM, THAT IT'S OUR RECOMMENDATION THAT WE ASK THE DEVELOPERS TO LOOK FURTHER WITH THE CITY TO EXPLORE OTHER POSSIBLE ALTERNATIVES IN EFFORTS TO SACRIFICE EVEN LESS AND IF POSSIBLE NONE OF THE EXISTING PARK LAND AT SHERWOOD PARK. Linda Presthus SECONDED THE MOTION. Mr. Klus commented that he never wants to see park land taken away. It's a tough thing to take park land away especially since we fight so hard for our green areas and at the same time he hears the tax increment financing issues that the city has placed upon the developer. The developers have to develop so much revenue to support what they are trying to do and these are tough issues for both the city and the developer. The 10 developers are at the mercy of the City in a lot of ways. He indicated that he is in support of the motion and is hopeful that there is some way that we can do less impact upon the neighborhood and less impact upon this park. He noted that adding this town square feeling is nice and it's going to look great but it's not going to be functional and the functionality of our parks is a big issue. Mr. Keprios pointed out that he never intended to imply that the town square was going to be a replacement for what was lost at Sherwood Park. The two parks will likely have very different functions altogether. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. ADJOURNMENT Scott Housh MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 9:25 P.M. Karla Sitek SECONDED THE MOTION. MEETING ADJOURNED. 11 John KeDrios From: Jennifer Janovy Djanovy@hotmail.comj Sent: Wednesday, April 12, 2000 6:21 PM To: jkeprios@ci.edina.mn.us Subject: Proposed off -leash dog recreation park Dear Mr. Keprios, My husband and I would like to express our concern about the proposed Minneapolis dog recreation park in Morningside (France Ave. between 39th and 42nd Streets). We live at 4016 Inglewood Ave. and know, from experience, that such a park would have a direct impact on the traffic outside our doors. To give you a perspective, our front windows look out onto Calvin Christian School and Weber Field. Each day dozens of cars drive in and park in the Calvin Christian and Weber Field lots. The drivers get out, open the back doors of their cars, and let their dogs run free into the woods. We think a dog park would increase the traffic and this activity even more.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft- com: office: office" /> My husband and I attended the Minneapolis Park Board meeting regarding this proposed dog park site on March 23. We went because, initially, we were concerned about an increase of traffic in our neighborhood. As we listened to ROMP and the Park Board's proposals, we had even greater concerns. ROMP, the community organization advocating the dog parks, focused on how dog parks reduce dog -on -dog aggression and how the park would be kept clean of dog waste. As dog owners, these are the least of our worries. We were more concerned by ROMP's statement that they would "police" the site with volunteers, thus ensuring compliance with the dog park's rules. How volunteers would do this, when policing is challenging enough for professionally trained officers, we don't know. It seemed like a dangerous idea. We were further concerned to learn that Minneapolis doesn't plan to develop the site beyond erecting a four foot tall fence -iround the area. Money for maintaining the park once it's been established has not been secured. A representative from ne Minneapolis Park Police also stated that his department lacks the resources to patrol the park and enforce dog park rules. Our concern over where users would park to use the dog recreation area grew as we listened to the Minneapolis Park Board planner, who stated that he thought people could park in the Calvin Christian or Weber Field lots. It seemed clear to us that the issue of parking, which seems so basic to park planning, had not been thought through. When residents challenged his parking assumptions, he then proposed street parking, something that seems dangerous on France Avenue. Although we don't know, we assume that Minneapolis, like most communities, has a leash law. Yet, Minneapolis does nothing right now to enforce that law on the property in question. Based on this history, we think it's unlikely that Minneapolis will maintain this property for safety, cleanliness, and compliance with laws if the dog park is established. Already, illegal off -leash activity in Weber Field is common because of its proximity to the wooded area. If this area becomes a dog park, that illegal activity will increase. Apparently, the Minneapolis Park Board has a meeting scheduled for April 26 to vote on proposed dog park sites. Our hope is that the City of Edina will act as it can to dissuade Minneapolis from choosing the France Ave. site. If there will be any public discussion in Edina on this issue, please let us know. Also, please feel free to call us if you have any questions or would like more information. Thank you. Sincerely, Jennifer Janovy & Randy Meyer 016 Inglewood Ave. J -]-w J -d dna Hornet Boys Rujgby Club )/14100 The EDINA )CORNET BOWS Rt'GBY Cl_t'B w, -is for;ned in the spring of 1997 by Dianne Schrader and Mikc Maddcn. both Edina Ic�ldcnts v,iih ru,,bv backgrounds. Al the lime. Duane -Xaas the coach of the l ar]cton cotic`,e N9rn s and \\ omen's Rugby Hubs and had t -,No dauchicrs at Edina Hi -ch School. Mike hada sophomore son and younger children it Edina. Both had played college rugby in Minnesota, Duane at Carleton and Mike at Si. Johns in the middle 1970 s and play ed senior rugby �N ith the St. Paul Pigs and the Twin Cities Banshees respectiycly. Edina was judged to be a fertile gst round to art a rugby club given that the size of the school �� ith rou��lil� 410 studc n per grade left plenty of good athletes who ,vere not playing ports NN ]III existing varsity to anis. Edina is also an upper niiddle class suburb �yith a high percentage of parents from colleges and universities tl;at supported rugby clubs in the 1970. The ]cap of faith was taken that the parent's exposure to rueby was not entirely negative. That spring 35 boys si,-ned up -\yith interest to play and 25 made it onto the pitch on a regular basis. The boys anxiously a-\yaited tryouts and cuts from the Club that never came. We scheduled enough matches that every boys played as much as they wanted. The parents responded \Nish great enthusiasm; thrilled that their sons had a sport to play and were not the Cubjeci of il;e traditional a��`�ressiye coaching styles. The Club was also fortunate that the Athletic Director at Edina. Mr. Steve Dove. understood the -alue of having boys actively engaged in sport; any sport; that kept them fit and out of less productive activities. The Club was ,allowed to make announcements and display recruiting and informational posters in school. Even though the Edina Club ,N -as organized through the city Park and Recreation Dept., the High Schools openness was an important factor in the successful esiaAshment of the Edina Boys Club. In 1997 there NN-cre only vyo High School boys Clubs. East Metro and Edina. We played each other three times and Edina played scrimmages v ith the Carleton, St. Olaf; and Ur,i,,,ersiiy of Minnesota "B" side clubs. A]tl;ough there were no victories in this season, the seed bad been planted and was flourishing. When the spring of 1998 arrived the Edina boys numbers swelled to 50 which allowed us to routinely field two sides. More boys were attracted to the sport. We drew student athletes from the band, the school newspaper, football, soccer, track; cross country, and drama. That year Southside joined the High School `league' and we played both East Metro and Southside in home and away series. Asa second year club, we moved into hosting post game socials to fete our opponents and experience the greater breath of the rugbv tradition. We continued to scrid;image college clubs and played eight matches that season. We went 4-0 against the other l;igh schools and declared ourselves the champion of the mythical Minnesota state high school league. For the 1999 season the Edina Boys Club rostered 6; boys with 50 plus regularly at practices. Boys again awaited team cuts which we responded to by scheduling more matches. The league expanded x iih the addition of Minnetonka and Champlin Park. Edina opened the season carrying three sides to Champlin Park. Thereafter we scheduled two schools of a given date to get matches for all three of the Edina sides. A great number of boys played and our quality of play continued to rise. Edina had a season record of 7-1 against the other high schools and once again crowned ourselves theoretical State Champs. The spring of 2000 marks the fourth season of boys Rugby at Edina High School. We believe ,\ye have established a tradition of rugby excellence. On the strength of our 11998,season i 0 a Nab bchm I riq+� ;aihc I T()U3Tj1i1nL1n1 1 `wv hj Ac ihicago. WC We who 1(d IOf Mah School 1111 ion. Ile ynm"h of hich s, hool ruVQ-1AF Ypi-ing scm eleven learns in IN I Tague' Ads spring and UK mill compoe in Te AVmC1r—jM'i-' ision alid �1. I il I C. Our r -,I circ �1 ron pap on Mils yens NN-jill ()0, bo� s `igncd iqn and ive fondQ hope in Place 3 toes Oil the Pilch again illis spring. Our JIM Wini have embraced ruvbN after graduation and we have student athletes starting on and caplaining college and uniN ci My icanis at the Universities of Minnesota, I Dakota: at 'Norflv, 'esler and Yale; and at St. Wisconsin, San Francisco. and North Da� N n Olaf. St. Thomas, St. Johns, St. Mari`sand Pomona. It is a grand tradition, a credit to the coriini-ujii,ty, and a positive statement fi a fine ,,,,roup of young men. 't l_, l'NA 1110,RN117 BOAS kl _013Y (Lt:B May 20, 2000 Contact: Mike Madden 829-8227 Duanc Schrader 9= -6733 T he l -diva }lornet l3c:ys Rugbx Club beton preparations this week to defend it's second Consecutive nn, Meal Staic Chan;pionship. The club, which began practices this week at Highland Park in Edina, is in it's fourih }car ofcornpetition. The team will compete atainst 10 other 'Minnesota high school clubs in the year 2000, up from 5 clubs in 1999. In continuing rugby iraditicnthe Club will also host visiting teams to a social gathering folloN, ing the game. "This gives the boys a chance to interact with the players, coaches, and referees on a different level and creates a great spirit of community among rugby club members. The Edina Club consists of 9-12 grade boys from Edina. 60 players participated in 1999. Edina Rugby Club members come from very diverse athletic backgrounds including football, soccer, cross country running, basketball, ,vresiliDg, hockey, track baseball, and golf. Head Coach Duane Schrader states, `With 15 players to a side we have the need for all types of athletes,. Lig, si ,all, tall, speedsters, and plodders. It is the naturemf The tame to get everybody involved in the action. Our Club members are involved in Debate, Choir, Band, Speech, and other community activities and the practice schedule is flexible enough to support them in their other interests. Edina Rugby Club Alumni have gone on to the Univcrsites of Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, San Francisco, North Dakato, Nothwestern, Yale, MIT, St. Olaf, St. Thomas, St. John's, St. Mary's, Iowa, and Pomona. Several Rugby Club Alumni have been selected as National Merit Scholars. The Edina Hornet Boys Rugby Club will also represent Minnesota in the Midwest Plate Rugby Tournament in Chicago, IL on May 13 & 14, 2000. The competition in Chicago will include 16 teams from 10 states. The tpurnament in Chicago is organized by the USA Rugby Football Union. The Edina Hornet Rugby Club emphasizes the importance of involvement and schedules teams at different levels of competition to allow everybody an equal chance to play. " Nobody is cut from the Rugby Club." Everybody Plays' States Coach Schrader. Duane Schrader is in his fourth year as coach for the Edina Club and is a certified coach by the USA Rugby Football Union. Zj ` A -LA O—) 5 Pc. 4' Cw S T� !�1 r�i +✓? / c i rtt-V_ q13 Pc,14Y 2 06 6!✓ For the second year, 2 Edina club members will be nominated for college scholarships funded by the Minnesta Amatuer Rugby Foundation. Last year's nominees were Rick Edin, currently studying at the University of Minnesota, and John Madden, currently studying at St. John's University. Both have continued their rugby carreerswith their respective University clubs. This year's recipients will also receive matching funds from The MARY Trustees if they attend a Minnesota College or university. PRATCICES ARE HELD Monday&Wednesday at 5 pm at Highland Park in Edina. Contact Duane Schrader or Mike Madden if interested in .JOINING The Edina Hornet Rugby Club TO: John Keprios Director of Parks and Recreation FROM: Thomas Horwath Edina City Forester DATE: January 5, 2000 RE: Annual year end Shade Tree Report - 1999 In 1999 there were no interruptions of normal forestry functions as there was the previous year with the strong storms in Edina. My city forestry duties were completed largely unhindered. I performed my annual chores such as Dutch Elm Disease and Oak Wilt Control, supervision of the boulevard tree trimming program, tree and shrub planting, hazardous tree inspections, residential tree inspection requests, and also had time to expand my duties to include some Buckthorn eradication efforts and trail making on city property. Buckthorn has recently been added to the state noxious weed list. This invasive non-native thorny shrub is adaptable to many different sites from sunny to partially shaded. It aggressively out competes other more desired native plants. It can grow in such thickets that movement is through it can be a difficult and unpleasant chore. At the beginning of the year I was busy cutting and hauling away Buckthorn shrubs from the wooded lot near the water tower at Creek Valley Park. For the first three months I worked about an hour a day at this site. Spring planting and summer duties did not allow any time at this site, but I returned later in the fall to continue removing Buckthorn and laying down a wood -chip trail through this wooded lot. I estimate I've removed about 75% of the Buckthorn. The remainder will be removed this year. I am enthusiastic about observing what native plants will now grow in the understory spaces formerly occupied by this weed of the woods. Tree and shrub planting I will list by planting dates the species, sizes, quantity and sites for the trees and shrubs that I was involved in planting in 1999. 1. 29 April. 32 Norway Pine seedlings at Public Works building -east side. 2. 30 April. 150 White and Norway Pines at new ice arena. 3. 30 April. 30 Norway Pine seedlings at Van Valkenburg, along north boundary. 0 4. 30 April. 20 Yellow Birch seedlings at Van Valkenburg, weed hill north side of water tower. 0 t 5. 3 May. Maple - 1" dia bare -root. Pamela Park. 6. 3 May. 3 Black Hills Spruce - 2' container trees at Van Valkenburg, north boundary. 7. 3 May. 6 Bur Oak seedlings at Van Valkenburg. S.E. weed hill. 8. 4 May. 30 more Norway Pine seedlings. Public Works, east side. 9. 4 May. 30 more Norway Pine seedlings. Ice arena. 10. 4 May. 2 Swamp White Oaks - container 1" dia. Wooddale Park. 11. 5 May. 1 Black Hills Spruce - 2' container. Lewis Park. 12. 5 May. 1 Swamp White Oak - container 1" dia. Utley Park. 13. 11 May. 1 Swamp White Oak - container 1.5" dia. Rosland Park. 14. 13 May. 15 Quaking Aspen seedlings. Van Valkenburg, weed hill south of entrance parking lot. 15. 25 May. 4 Junipers - 15 gal. containers. Rosland Park. Planted to block walking path to pool. 16.28 May. 3 B&B Crabapples. Heights Park. Planted by tree crew. 17. 1 June. 1 Japanese Tree Lilac - 20 gal. Container. Center Island at Wooddale and Country Club Road. 18. 15 June. 10 Quaking Aspen. 10 gal. containers. Garden Park, west end. 19. 24 June. 18 Dwarf Amur Maples. Rosland Park. Planted to block foot path to pool. 20. 2 July. 9 various shrubs. Rosland Park in mulch garden near tennis courts. 21.25 August. 6 various shrubs. Rosland Park. Garden near new children's playground. 22. 17 September. 3 Spirea shrubs. Browndale Park near new bench. 23. 17 September. 1 Swamp White Oak. 1.5" dia container. Rosland Park 24. 17 September. 1 Swamp White Oak. 1.5" dia container. Van Valkenburg. r� i Dutch Elm Disease Control The number of diseased Elms I marked for removal was very low again this year. I ordered the removal of 68 Elm trees infected with Dutch Elm Disease. Edina residents removed 58 of these trees on their private property and on boulevards (18). Our city tree crew removed 10 Elms within city parks. The continued low incidence of Dutch Elm Disease can partially be attributed to less of an Elm population within the city. But I believe more so that it is a result of a continuing sanitation program. Prompt removal of infected trees is most definitely protecting the remaining Elms. Each of the many remaining Elm trees within the city - in parks, on private property and along boulevards - adds greatly to the environmental tapestry that defines this city. The remaining Elms give testimony to the effectiveness of this program and the commitment of Edina's citizens to protect and preserve this irreplaceable tree. Oak Wilt This year, once again, Oak Wilt management was contracted to Kunde Co. They provided services for city-wide inspections, control recommendations where Oak Wilt is identified, and notifying residents when certain of the infected Oaks must be removed. Removal is not always a requirement as part of control methods. Most initial residential inspection requests come through my office. This year I received a higher rate of Oak inspection requests because of the greater incidence of anthracnose in Oaks - a foliar but usually non-fatal disease. I made all initial inspections to screen out these complaints so they would not have to be inspected by Kunde Co. I am hearing more promising results about the fungicide injection of oaks as a preventative and at times curative for Oak trees. It is similar in concept to the fungicide used to protect Elm trees from Dutch Elm Disease. On particular sites where residents may benefit from this I lead them to sources more knowledgeable than myself so they may receive more information and decide for themselves if they wish to try this. Within the city park system, one site with Oak Wilt was vibratory plowed in an attempt to stop oak wilt from spreading to nearby healthy oaks. This site was in Braemar, across the street from the golf maintenance building. Cost for this work was estimated between $200-$300. A separate yearly Oak Wilt report is due from Kunde Co. They annually report on their specific inspection sites. Hazardous Trees/Clear View problems In 1999 I ordered the removal of 9 trees for safety purposes. All trees were along city streets. All of these have been removed. I also ordered the removal of portions of 2 trees. In these two cases, large branches were protruding into the street below 16'. Both of these portions were already struck by vehicles before I was asked to inspect them. As of the time of this report, one of the trees has not been cut. However the due date for compliance given the resident has not yet passed. I will continue to monitor this tree. I also asked six residents to trim their vegetation along the boulevard, and protruding into the streets. All six sites were done satisfactorily. Miscellaneous Duties Performed Each year I receive requests from residents to inspect trees on their property other than Elms and Oaks. I oblige on a time -permitting basis and normally can inspect every request. Residents are usually told by other government agencies who are queried about private tree diseases to "check with your local city forester". I estimate that less than 10% of my time is occupied with these requests. This spring I purchased seedlings of trees which are generally not available in nurseries. I am attempting to expand the selection of species of trees beyond the range of the selections available in nurseries. Since these more exotic species were too small to be directly planted anywhere without any future care, I took them home to grow them to larger sizes. When ready, I'll have some more unusual types of trees to plant in Edina's parks. Also in the parks I had time to trim trees - small ones - by raising them and removing volunteer weeds/trees growing under them. I helped pick up and haul fallen branches in parks to get them out of the way of the mowers. I also spent time cleaning debris out of park areas that was illegally dumped. Concluding Remarks Once again I wish to express my gratitude in allowing me to be of service as your city forester. I truly feel fortunate to be a part of your city's commitment to trees. They provide us with so much - from basic necessities to immeasurable aesthetic values and sentiments. In return we must continue to manage them with the greatest care, knowledge, wise planning and fiscal responsibility - to reap the greatest harvest of all that trees can provide for us. Respectfully submitted, �O�a4 ;; �� Thomas Horwath DATE Tues., May 9 Tues., June 13 Tues., July 11 REVISED 4-13-00 YEAR 2000 PARK BOARD MEETING SCHEDULE MEETING LOCATION City Hall General Park Tour Braemar Golf Course Tues., August 8 City Hall *Wed., Sept. 13 Tues., Oct. 10 Tues., Nov. 14 December 12 Centennial Lakes Park City Hall City Hall City Hall PRESENTATIONS BY 3 athletic associations Ed MacHolda (Pool) INSPECTION TOUR 3 athletic associations Tom Shirley & Ann Kattreh 3 athletic associations Vince Cockriel, Park Superintendent and Tom Horwath, Forester Donna Tilsner & Susie Miller *PLEASE NOTE!!!! The September meeting has been moved to WEDNESDAY, September 13, due to the primary election (and possibly the referendum) falling on our regularly scheduled Park Board meeting night (Tuesday, September 12). By State law, we cannot hold a public meeting during the primary election. 5209 Abercrombie Drive Edina, Minnesota 55439 April 22, 2000 John Keprios Park & Recreation Director 4801 West 50th Street Edina, Minnesota 55424-1394 Dear John, I appreciated the opportunity to meet with you recently with regards to making a park bench donation in memory of our son, Nathan Alt. Needless to say I was disappointed that we could not proceed and have the bench so we could enjoy its use the summer and for ever more. But as you pointed out, there are people who are becoming uncomfortable with all the dedications in the parks. And they want to walk in beauty and not be reminded of death. Since we have talked, I have gained a greater appreciation of what that sector of the Edina public is saying. And I guess I have to agree. For selfish reasons I would like to have a park dedicated. For the spirit of the community I guess you are taking the right position in stopping the individual dedications and taking time to take a look at it. I have looked over your proposal and have looked it over again and will look it over again. I will give you my comments but I feel you have a positive proposal here. I enclose a flyer that may be of interest to you. I had asked a flyer like this be posted somewhere at City Hall but I do not know if it did get posted. SAVE ( Suicide AwarenessNoices of Education) has a program that will be introduced into the Edina High School and the two middle schools. It deals in Suicide awareness and depression and the signs to education people to recognize depression signs that may lead to major depression or talks of suicide. Also to help people to feel comfortable in reporting people they feel need help. This is a fact it is going to have in Fall 2000. To get more information on this you can call Jackie Casey of SAVE at 612-946-7998 or Shelia Kosek of Edina Senior High School at 612-947-1900 ext 1914. Jackie and Shelia may be helpful in that Healthy Communities Healthy Youth Initiative in the area of suicide and depression we were talking about. Again, thank you for the visit. Talking with you gave me more insight as far as Edina donations to the Park system. As you suggested, I will give you positive impute. Sincerely, John Alt A Connecting with Kids Vision Belief: Our children are our future. Purpose: Create a community that values all youth. Connecting with Kids Action Plan 2000 Plan 1 Create a partnership where all community members help create healthy lives. Measurement: Assess the level of involvement of the community groups such as school, city, faith, business, medical, etc: Plan 2 Create a more caring and supportive school and community environment. Measurement: Asset questions: Teachers care about me. I get encouraged at school. Students care about me. Asset #5: School provides a caring encouraging environment. Plan 3 Promote our youth as resources and provide opportunities for their involvement. Measurement: Asset questions: In my family I feel useful and supported. I am given lots of chances to help make my town or city a better place in which to live. Students help decide what goes on in my school. Asset #7: Community values youth. Asset #8: Youth as resources. Plan 4 Provide support for youth who experience chemical/ mental health/violence issues. Measurement: Asset questions: Percent of students who report they know how to say "no" when someone wants them to do something wrong or dangerous. Percent of students who report they tried to kill themselves once or twice. percent of students who report they feel sad or depressed during the last month. Percent of students reporting liking themselves. Percent of students report being physically harmed by someone in their family or living with them. Asset #2: Positive family communication. Asset #11: Family boundaries. Asset #20: Time at home. Asset #31: Restraint. Asset #35: Resistance skills. Asset #39: Sense of purpose. Asset #40: Personal view of future. Connecting with Kids Action Plan 2000 Data Analysis Plan 1 Create a partnership where all community members help create healthy lives. All In order to be successful, all aspects of the community (school, city, faith, assets business, medical, etc.) must partner together to make a difference. All of the other action plans rely on this basic plan. Plan 2 Create a more caring and supportive school and community environment. Asset #5: Schodprovides a caring encouraging environment. The data shows that 35% of Edina students have this asset. This compares with the national norm of 24%. This asset is a member of the support asset type contained under external assets. The support asset category was sixth out of the eight categories for Edina students vs. the national norm of seven out of the eight categories. Asset *50% of Edina students say that teachers care about them. The most positive ?s: response was from 6th graders (67%) and the lowest was from 10th graders (39%). *47% of Edina students say that they get encouraged at school. Oh graders were high again at 62% and 10th graders were low at 38%. Males were generally lower (43%) than females (51%) *67% of the students think that other students care about them. The highest positive response was from 12th graders (72%) and the lowest from 8th graders (63%). Males were lower at 63% vs. females 72%. *An additional question shows that 88% of the sample believes that their parents push them to be the best they can be vs. 50% who report teachers push them. Plan 3 Promote our youth as resources and provide opportunities for their involvement. Asset #7: Community values youth. 31 % of the Edina students have this asset vs. the national norm of 20%. This asset is part of the empowerment category under external assets. The empowerment category is the eighth ranked category in Edina as well as the the national norm. Asset #8: Youth as resources. 35% of Edina students have this asset vs. the national norm of 24%. Asset *79% of Edina students feel useful and important at home. This is highest ?s: in grade 7 (86%) and lowest in grade 8 (73%). *38% of Edina students reported that they are given chances to help make the community better. 6th graders rated this the highest (45%) while 7th,�Lnd 8th graders were the lowest (34%). *52% ,bf the Edina students indicated that they help decide what goes on in their school. 6th graders feel more involved (69%) and 12th graders were low at 37%. Males tend to feel less involved (47%) than females (56%). *Additional questions show that 53% think that adults in the community make them feel important. 48% think that adults in the community listen to them. 50% believe that adults in the community care about them. 49% believe that they matter to people in their city. Plan 4 Provide support for youth who experience chemical/mental health/ violence issues. Asset #2: Positive family communication. 34 % of the students have this asset vs. 26% nationally. Asset #11: Family boundaries. 47% of the students report having this asset vs. 43% nationally. Asset #20: Time at Home 52% of the students report having this asset vs.50% nationally. Asset #31: Restraint. 60% of the students report having this asset vs. 42% nationally. Asset #35: Resistance skills. 48% of the students report having this asset vs. 37% nationally. Asset 37: Sense of purpose. 68% of students report having this asset vs. 55% nationally. Asset #40 Personal view of future. 77% of students report having this asset vs. 70% nationally. Asset *52% of Edina students report that they would talk to their parents ?s: about serious issues such as drugs, alcohol, sex, etc.. This was highest in 6th grWers (73%) and lowest in 9th and 10th grade (42%). Males are less likely (47%) than females (56%) discuss these issues. *67% of the students report have lots of good conversations with their parents. 6th graders are high at 80% and 8th graders are low at 59%. *85% of students report that none or a few friends drink alcohol once or more per week. The 6th graders were the highest at 100% and the 12th graders were the lowest at 56%. *83% report that none or a few of their closest friends have used drugs. The 6th graders were high at 100% and 11th graders were low at 58%. *78% of students think it is important to do what they believe is right even though their friends make fun of them. 12th graders were high at 88% and 8th graders low at 64%. Males reported 71% vs. females at 83%. *76% of students stand up for what they believe even when it is unpopular to do so. 12th graders were highest at 87% and 8th graders were lowest at 63%. *72% of students report they know how to say "no" when someone wants to do something wrong or dangerous. 7th graders are high at 79% and 11th graders are low at 67%. *87% of students report they like themselves. 7th grade is high at 91% and 11 th grade is low at 83%. *87% of students report they have never used marijuana in their lifetime. 6th grade was highest at 100% and 12th grade was low at 59%. *9% of students reported that they were depressed all or most of the time in the last month (2% all and 7% most). *5% of students reported that they had tried to kill themselves once and 1% reported they had tried to kill themselves twice. * 16% of the students reported being physically harmed one to three times by someone in their family or living with them. 4% reported they had been physically harmed four or more times. Comments The committee thins that there is ample data to support the recommended plans. We are well aware that the validity of some of the level of responses might be questioned. For example, it seems unlikely that 6% (roughly 180+) students have tried to kill themselves. Yet, we acknowledge that if even on or two or more students are at risk there is a need to attempt to address this and other high risk behavior issues. As we move forward, these are the plans that we think are currently most critical to the youth of our community. City of Edina April 21, 2000 Joan Niemiec Director of Community Planning Minneapolis Park Board 200 Grain Exchange 400 South &" St. Minneapolis, MN 55415 Dear Joan: Thank you for meeting with me and our Superintendent of Park Maintenance, Vince Cockriel on April 17. It was a very productive and positive meeting. I appreciate your understanding of our process necessary for the City of Edina to approve this initiative. Even with my support, the project still requires final approval of our Park Board and City Council which will necessitate a City Code amendment. As I mentioned in our meeting, I would encourage you to consider the following: 1. Create off-street parking for a minimum of 10 vehicles, 12 would be preferred, near the Minneapolis water works building (gravel parking lot would be adequate). 2. Minneapolis Park Board would provide all law enforcement of the area related to the off -leash site issues, including, enforcement of all off -leash site rules and regulations and responding to all public safety calls related to the off -leash site. 3. Minneapolis Park Board would assume all legal liability for activities within the off - leash site. 4. Minneapolis Park Board ensure that clean-up bags and trash receptacles are provided and maintained at all times. 5. Off -leash site rules and regulations signs posted at the site. 6. Edina residents would be allowed to purchase a license to use Minneapolis Park Board off -leash dog parks at the resident rate. 7. The off -leash park license would require pet owners to sign a hold harmless waiver that indemnifies the City of Edina. 8. Minneapolis Park Board would provide all park maintenance functions for the site, such as, trash removal, fence repair, vandalism repair, litter debris removal, snow removal for parking lot and access points to park entry. 9. The City of Edina, the City of St. Louis Park and the Minneapolis Park Board would sign a joint powers agreement or agreement of understanding that addresses the items listed above. This agreement would also include language that all parties agree to a minimum of a two-year trial basis. City Hall (612) 927-8861 4801 WEST 50TH STREET FAX (612) 826-0390 EDINA, MINNESOTA 55424-1394 TDD (612) 826-0379 As we discussed, the I would prefer that a portable restroom facility be kept in place near the main entrance to the off -leash park, however, that is not a mandatory requirement. I also understand from our meeting that even though pet owners are responsible for picking up their dog's feces there will be an active group of volunteers who will periodically clean the park to keep it environmentally and user friendly. Our next Park Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 9, 2000, 7:30 p.m. at the Edina City Hall. The June meeting will be on Tuesday, June 13, 2000, same time and place. Please let me know if and when you would like to attend and make a presentation to the Edina Park Board. My direct phone number is 826-0430, fax is 826-0390, and my e-mail address is Jkeprios@ci.edina.mn.us. I look forward to hearing from you. Many thanks. Si ely, G J Keprio , it Edina Park and Recreation Department 1A May 1, 2000 Joan Niemiec Director of Community Planning Minneapolis Park Board 200 Grain Exchange 400 South 4`" Street Minneapolis, MN 55415 Dear Joan, Thank you for including the Cities of St. Louis Park and Edina in the process of establishing an off -lease dog area. When we spoke in February, it seemed as if you were not interested in a joint agreement with our Cities. I appreciate you reexamining that possibility. At the present time, there is a City of St. Louis Park ordinance that prohibits dog's off -leashes. If the City Council decides to permit the off -leash area on the property • owned by the Minneapolis Public Works Department, the current ordinance will need to be amended. If Minneapolis is interested in pursuing this amendment to the ordinance, this proposed site will need to be presented to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission at their next meeting which is scheduled for Wednesday, May 10 at 7:00 p.m. Your presence at that meeting would be appreciated. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission and staff recommendations can then be forwarded to the City Council for review. I will discuss with the City Manager what the proper channel should be for Council review. He may suggest that you should present this issue at a Council Study Session before going to the Council meeting for action. I am in agreement with John Keprios, Edina Parks and Recreation Director, that the following items should be considered and decisions made regarding how you will proceed before presenting this item to our City Council. 1. City of St. Louis Park residents would be allowed to purchase a Minneapolis off - leash license to use this and other dog parks at resident rates. 2. Consider placing a portable restroom somewhere in the vicinity of the off -leash area. 3. Create off-street parking for a minimum of 10 vehicles (12 would be preferred) near the Minneapolis water works building (gravel parking lot would be adequate). Ms. Joan Niemiec May 1, 2000 Page 2 4. Minneapolis Park Board would provide all law enforcement of the area related to the off -leash site issues, including enforcement of all off -leash site rules and regulations and responding to all public safety calls related to the off -leash site. 5. Minneapolis Park Board ensures clean-up bags and trash receptacles are provided and maintained at all times. 6. Off -leash site rules and regulations posted at the site. 7. The off -leash park license would require pet owners to sign a hold harmless waiver that indemnifies the City of St. Louis Park. 8. Minneapolis Park Board would provide all park maintenance functions for the site, such as trash removal, fence repair, vandalism repair, litter/debris removal, snow removal for parking lot and access points to park entry. 9. The City of St. Louis Park, the City of Edina, and the Minneapolis Park Board would sign a joint power agreement or agreement of understanding that addresses the items listed above. This agreement would also include language that all parties agree to a minimum of a two-year trial basis. Please contact me at (952) 924-2541 to let me know how you would like to proceed. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Cindy S. Walsh Director of Parks and Recreation April 19, 2000 and a lack of planning —other than 1Vl�nneapoliS putting a fence around a two -acre plot. "I am not in favor of it. The only place dog to park will be on the Edina side. The ir- proposes. responsible pet owners won't clean up, so in Edina there will be waste issues," Siitari said. He also pointed to what he said will be park a substantial increase in police calls for something that is a Minneapolis project. 40th Street and France Minneapolis Parks Planner Joan Niemiec said she has heard from both sup - Avenue site is 1 of 8 that porters and opponents of the park who live Park Board IS COC1SIderin g in Edina. Niemiec cited a survey of 23 peo- in ple from the March 23 meeting which 12 responded in favor of the off -leash park. By Todd Messelt "Even though we own the land, we're Sun Newspapers not going to put something in another municipality that it doesn't want," The Minneapolis Park Board- Niemiec said. Niemiec said park officials from s idea of putting s i Edina, St. Louis Park and Minneapolis off-leashofdog are in continued discussions regarding park at the the project. southwest cor- ner of 40th Street and France Avenue appears to be gaining mixed S reviews from Edinans. Minneapolis has scheduled a series of presentations for 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, at the Grain Exchange, 400 S. Fourth St., Minneapolis. During the pre- sentation, the Park Board will give background information on each of the eight proposed off - leash sites, including the 40th and France property, which is in Edina. The other seven proposed sites are in Minneapolis. Each of the sites will be dis- cussed for 15 minutes with the 40th and France site presenta- tion scheduled for 5:30 p.m. The city of Minneapolis owns the two -acre corner plot, which is mostly swamp and marsh- land. The city's water depart- ment currently operates a pump house there. "I attended a public meeting on March 23," said Edina Police Chief Mike Siitari. "There were many Edina residents against the proposal. The main objec- tions are the increase of traffic 2 |||2| ■r■�, � |a i | |s] ■ � bj 21�� '| � , | |k||| ■ � | ■a|_|,|� , �� � ■ §i�! / � . ��� dI | |K � § � _., | |||., i /,■-| 2 |||2| ■r■�, ■ , | |k||| � |. |!| E | |||., i /,■-| || ||■|§|§|||| || | | la| | |||||,,•! ■ | �, a | |!§| ■||§�|||! � |||| §�$$! ($■§� | 2 • SII nRY Y Q gg pp pp pp pp pp R QQ q@ S nRY Y Q gg pp pp pp pp pp R QQ q@ S b N 3 n �-a m S g a N b N 3 n m g a N Ell aq�nV�[a\rn�o'1r — "--",/a 40 Wvaor,-,n-- The push for off- leash ffleash sites hasn't been an easy one. An uphill fight for dog areas By David Peterson and Kevin Duchschere Star Tribune Staff Writers A few years ago, when the dog - park movemeist began spreading across the nation 'dog owners de- picted it as a motrient of thrilling liberation for their pets, which would at last get the chance to.run free. But today, as both Minneapolis and St. Paul hold public hearings on whether to join that.movement, there is'an atmosphere of edginess and tension. Finding sites for off -leash areas in residential neighborhoods hasn't been easy. Some public hearings in Minneapolis have oc- curred, under, what park officials only half -kiddingly refer to as "near -riot conditions. And ' although proponents say they're thrilled that years of lobby- ing may finally pay off, they're dis- appointed that most potential sites are on the cities' fringes. DOGS continues on Al2: —At least six locations are expected to be approved. ALSO INSWE, > Map of proposed off -leash dog ci Mn PAGE Al2 • STAR TRIBUNE ** DOGS from Al Finding sites for off -leash areas rn cities has been no easy task Ten years ago, there were few - pr than 20 dog parks nationwide. Today there are several hundred. Many Twin Cities -area parks Agencies are planning either to establish such areas or expand the ones they have. Dog -park advocates and some officials say that off -leash areas have been a success in other cit- ies. But in Seattle, for -example, many dog owners are avoiding the areas because they're crowd- ed and muddy,.and animal -con- trol officers continue to find large numbers of people letting dogs run in prohibited areas, the Seat- tle Times reported. in January. And in Florida, some commu- nities have enacted legislation fining owners whose dogs attack other dogs, the Fort Lauderdale Sun -Sentinel reported last fall. In at least one instance, a dog killed another dog. A close eye Park officials in Minneapolis are considering eight off -leash lo- cations and expect to approve at least six. But the parks will be watched very closely for at least the fust year. "If they don't work [or] if they cause huge problems," said Park Board Member Vivian Mason, "we would either move them or get rid of them. And I do think those who want them are anxious to be sure they work." Robin Hard, president of the Minneapolis chapter of Responsi- ble Ownersof Mannerly Pets (ROMP) — the group that's been pushing for the parks — agrees. "Like others in Minneapolis," she said, "dog owners really adore our parks, and we don't want to do anything to trash them." A broader look The issue is drawing attention at the regional level as well. The Metropolitan Council's Parks and Open Space Commission has asked its staff to find out what's happening across the seven - county area in the hopes of set- ting an overall policy. "In the park user surveys we've done, dog parks and dog issues in general come up very often when people add written comments, both for and against," said Dave Engstrom, a dog owner, who chairs the commission. Large county parks often have lots of space for dogs to run, and sometimes off -leash areas are un- fenced, causing conflicts with wildlife or recreational uses such as trails. Specific incidents have included an off -leash dog going after a cross-country skier, Eng- strom said. But in Ramsey County, offi- cials say they've had success with two sites so far. The sites —' 13 acres in the Rice Creek Regional. Corridor in : Shoreview and 10 acres in Battle Creek Regional Park in Maplewood —were cre- ated after ROMP brought the is- sue to County Board members in 1996. They were officially, estab- lished after an 18 -month pilot program. Mary Rutherford of Shoreview, who was at the Rice Creek site Tuesday with her lab -German For Information about leash -free dogsites is avedab16 online KaUor♦e11y ansd ' http://www.tliedogparkcom: k M The local group Responsible Owners of Mannerly Pets (l?OW. and s Mui , neapolis chapter also have Web sites. 7haddresses, respectluet http:�/www.users.usiwestnet/-jbeetle/A_Place_to_;RONIPhtm http //homepages,go coM)%o ......... ........ .w u wfistwG{ .M4 a:+jic ye :a..: - �nN r WEDNESDAY, MAY 3.2000 Stur 1 ribune photo by Uavio txewster Mary Rutherford and her lab -German shepherd mix, Michael Jordan, played let-' Tuesday at a 13 -acre off -leash area In the Rice Creek Regional G - In Shoreview. shepherd mix named Michael Jordan, admitted the dog is "kind o a maniac out here — he's been known to squash smaller dogs." But she said she's never seen the owner of an overly aggressive dog do anything but leave. And offi- cials have applied wood chips to take care of muddy spots, she said. A wider issue that concerns the open space commission is that pieces of the regional system increasingly are being cordoned off for use by particular groups, ranging from dog owners to mountain bikers. In the cities Cities and close -in suburbs typically see problems that differ from those found at county parks: neighbors who object to increased traffic, parking, the in- stallation of fences and other side effects. Two sites under consideration in `',e heart of the Minneapolis I listrict are particularly con- ti- ,fsial. One is tucked obscure- ly between Lake of the Isles and Lake Calhoun. The other would take over an archery area across the street from the southeast cor- ner of Calhoun. That very visible area would be fenced, with wood chips scattered where dogs de- stroy the grass. In St. Paul, a citizen task force appointed by the Parks and Rec- reation Commission has recom- mended that the city set up an off -leash area in Arlington-Ark- wright Park this year and four to six more areas next year on either public or private land. Among them are areas in Highland Park and Prosperity Heights Park. The Parks Commission ap- proved the report in March and forwarded the matter to the City Council. The council will take testimony today, and vote next week, on an ordinance that would allow off -leash areas to be established. It would have to ap- prove specific sites later. Why Arlington-Arkwright? "It has low usage, a nice location, [and] it's far enough away from Battle Creek," said Roxann Wi- gen, a ROMP board member. Moreover, the local community council approved the idea after polling residents. "What we've seen evolve" at the off -leash areas, Wigen said, "is that dog -owning people are finding a camaraderie and a new sense of community when they're out there together. And more sin- gle women feel safer." EDINA PARK AND RECREA TION DONA TIONS Date of Donation: 1947 Location: Dwight C. Williams Memorial Park, 50' St. and Browndale Ave. Plaque located on a large stone across from the Old Mill Site. Item Donated: Dwight C. Williams Memorial Park and Plaque: SERGEANT DWIGHT CARLTON WILLIAMS, SKI TROOPER, LOTH MOUNTAIN DIVISION BORN IN MINNEAPOLIS, JULY 22, 1924 ATTENDED EDINA GRADE SCHOOL, LAKE SCHOOL, AND HARVARD COLLEGE, KILLED IN ACTION APRIL 30, 1945, IN ITALY AND BURIED THERE, IN LOVING MEMORY THIS OLD MILL SITE WHERE DWIGHT OF TEN PLAYED AS A BOY IS DEDICATED AS DWIGHT WILLIAMS PARK. Donation By: Elmer L. Williams (father). In 1945, Mr. Williams began to improve this overgrown lot at his one expense. First known as "Memorial Park Project #2" in 1948, Dwight Williams Park was officially dedicated by Elmer Williams in 1947. Continued with $ 500.00 per year for maintenance of park until his death in the `80s. Plaque $ 350.00. • Date of Donation: 1954 Location: Utley Park (the old Wooddale Park) 50' St. and Wooddale. Plaque is located on a large boulder in the middle of the park. Item Donated: Dedication Plaque: WOODDALE PARK, EDINA'S FIRST RECREATIONAL PARK DEVELOPED THROUGH THE COOPERATIVE EFFORTS AND FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE WOODDALE SCHOOL PTA, WOMEN'S CLUB OF EDINA, EDINA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, EDINA-MORNINGSIDE LIONS CLUB, EDINA AMERICAN LEGION POST 471 IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE EDINA PARK BOARD HERMANN H. STRACHAUER, WILLIAM W. LEWIS, W.C. STEVENSON. JUNE 1, 1954. Donation By: Wooddale School PTA, Women's Club of Edina, Edina Chamber of Commerce, Edina -Morningside Lions Club, American Legion Post # 471, Edina Park Board. Date of Donation: 1955 Location: Utley Park, W. 50"' and Wooddale Dr. Structure is located on the parks N.E. corner. Item Donated: Memorial Flagpole Structure and Dedication Plaque: AMERICAN LEGION MEMORIAL FLAGPOLE. DEDICATED TO THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO HONORABLY SERVED THEIR COUNTRY IN TIMES OF WAR AND PEACE. EDINA • POST # 471. MAY 30, 1955. I f Donation By: American Legion Edina Post #471. $ 760.00. Date of Donation: 1963 Location: Lake Cornelia Park, 4300 West 66th St., by the Municipal Pool. Item Donated: Betty Martin Memorial Swing Set. Donation By: Edina Jaycee Woman. Donated $ 300.00. Date of Donation: 1969 Location: Arneson Acres Park, 4711 West 70' S., 15 Acres. Plaque located on a brick pedestal overlooking the Park. Item Donated: Arneson Acres Park and Home (Formal Gardens). ARNESON ACRES. GENEROUSLY DONATED TO THE CITIZENS OF EDINA BY MORTON AND KATHERINE ARNESON, JANUARY 2, 1969. THIS PARK IS DEDICATED TO ASSURE THE PERMANENT PRESERVATION OF THE LAND'S BEAUTY GRATEFUULY ACCEPTED BY THE VILLAGE OF EDINA. ARTHUR BREDESEN, JR., MAYOR, WARREN C. HYDE, VILLAGE MAYOR. Donation By: Morton and Katherine Arneson. Estate is now home to the Edina Garden Council and Edina Historical Society. Date of Donation: 1972 Location: T. Lea Todd Park, 4429 Vandervork. Item Donated: Donation of open space. Donation By: Anson R. and Evelyn K. Merriman Date of Donation: 1976 Location: Braemar Park, 7600 Braemar Blvd. Item Donated: Brian Wippermann Memorial Indoor -Outdoor Gun Range. Donation By: Dr. and Mrs. Wippermann. $ 6,000.00. Continued a $ 500.00 per year. Item Donated: Trap Thrower, Guns, and Films. Donation By: Optimist Club. Continued $ 500.00 per year. Date of Donation: May 1978 Location: T. Lea Todd Park, 4429 Vandervork Ave. So.. Sign and plaque placed at the corner of Division and Vandervork. Item Donated: T. Lea Todd Park Dedication. Park Sign and Plaque. THIS PARK IS DEDICATED TO T. LEA TODD FOR HIS SELFLESS AND TIRELESS EFFORTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS WHILE SERVING AS PRESIDENT OF THE EDINA VILLAGE COUNCIL, AS A MEMBER AND CHAIRMAN OF THE EDINA PLANNING COMMISSION, AND FOR COUNTLESS OTHER SERVICES FOR EDINA DURING ITS GREATEST PERIOD OF GROWTH - 1943 TO 1968. Donation By: City of Edina, Park and Recreation Department. Date of Donation: August 1978 Location: William W. Lewis Park, Dewey Hill and Cahill Rd. Item Donated: William Wardwell Lewis, Park and Plaque. WILLIAM WARDWELL LEWIS PARK. THIS PARK IS DEDICATED TO WILLIAM WARDWELL LEWIS IN GRATEFUL APPRECIATION FOR HIS EXCELLENT SERVICE TO THE CITY OF EDINA, EDINA PARK BOARD 1948 - 1973, MEMBER EDINA PLANNING COMMISSION 1952, CHAIRMAN EDINA PLANNING COMMISSION 1968. Date of Donation: 1978 Location: Edina Art Center, Main Gallery Item Donated: Margaret Foss Memorial, Gallery - Lounge. Donation By: Family and Friends Date of Donation: 1978 Location: Edina Art Center, South grounds Item Donated: Jordy Taylor Memorial, Taylor Knoll. The knoll is a re-creation of a North Woods (Lake Superior) scene, with all the material having been brought from the Lake Superior area. Donation By: Family and Friends Date of Donation: 1979 Location: Edina Art Center, East grounds Item Donated: David Parsons Memorial Tree Donation By: George Nugent Date of Donation: June 1979 Location: Bredesen Park, Olinger Blvd. and Vernon Ave.. Entrance to Park off Olinger Blvd. Item Donated: Bredesen Park Dedication Wildlife Reserve. BREDESEN PARK. AS THE MAN IT HONORS, THIS EXCELLENT PARK REPRESENTS ALL EDINA. MAYOR ARTHUR C. BREDESEN REPRESENTED THE PEOPLE OF EDINA AS TRUSTEE AND MAYOR FROM 1951 UNTIL 1973. THIS NATURE PRESERVE REPRESENTS THE LAND OF THIS FINE COMMUNITY. EACH FLOURISHING ENVIRONMENT CAN BE FOUND HERE ... IN ARTHUR C. BREDESEN PARK. Date of Donation: July 1979 Location: Normandale Park, 6501 Warren Ave. So. Item Donated: Dedication Plaque. NORMANDALE PARK. THIS SIGN AND BENCH WERE DONATED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE NORMANDALE COMMUNITY SERVICE COUNCIL WHO FROM 1950 - 1978 CONTINUOUSLY RAISED MONEY FOR NORMANDALE PARK AQUISITIONS, IMPROVEMENTS AND PROGRAMS. Date of Donation: October 1979 Location: Lake Cornelia Park, 4300 West 66"' St. Item Donated: Therapeutic Playground Dedication. LAKE CORNELIA PARK THERAPEUTIC PLAYGROUND. "...TO ENABLE THEM TO ENJOY AS VIGOROUS A BODY AS HUMAN SKILL CAN GIVE THEM..." WE, THE FEDERATED WOMEN'S CLUB DEDICATE THIS PLAYGROUND TO ALL HANDICAPPED CHILDREN. OCTOBER 17, 1979. Donation By: Edina Federated Women's Club Date of Donation: 1980 Location: Edina Art Center, Left of main entrance Item Donated: Jan Epple Memorial Garden Donation By: Designed and Planted by The Edina Garden Council Date of Donation: 1981 Location: Edina Art Center, South studio Item Donated: Elaine "Tede" Nichols Memorial Painting Studio Donation By: Howard Nichols (Husband), $ 30,000 Donation Date of Donation: 1981 Location: Edina Art Center, East grounds Item Donated: Florance Baneman Memorial Bench (scenic location) Date of Donation: April 1985 Location: Lake Cornelia Park, 4300 West 66"' St. Item Donated: Handicapped Park Area, Picnic Tables. Donation By: Edina Federated Women's Club, 3 yr. - $ 7,500.00 Donation. Date of Donation: December 1985 Location: Arneson Acres Park, 4711 West 70'h St. Flower Garden Entrance. • Item Donated: Flower Box. Donation By: Sylvia Loheyde. $ 55.00. Date of Donation: June 1986 Location: Wooddale Park Item Donated: Gregory Lawrence Rice. Memorial Shelter and Plaque. DEDICATED TO THE CITY OF EDINA AND THE WOODDALE COMMUNITY IN MEMORY OF GREGORY LAWRENCE RICE 1968 - 1978. Donation By: $ 10,000. Date of Donation: September 1986 Location: Lake Cornelia Park, 4300 West 66' St., Valley View Road and West 66t" Item Donated: Art Center sign. Donation By: Edina Rotary $4,000; Edina Foundation $3,100; Federated Women's Club $3,000. Date of Donation: October 1986 Location: Braemar Golf Course, 6364 Dewey Hill Road, Executive Course. Item Donated: Ornamental and Fruit Trees Donation By: Richard and Sandra Schulze, $ 21,713.00 Date of Donation: February 1987 Location: Arneson Acres Park, 4711 West 66t" St. Item Donated: Landscape Plan Donation By: Edina Garden Council, 5yr - $ 5,000 donation. Date of Donation: February 1987 Location: Arbour Avenue - along Countryside Elementary Item Donated: Twenty trees Donation By: David and Mary Jo Franske, $ 458.00 Date of Donation: April 1987 Location: Wooddale Park, West 50t' and Wooddale Ave. Memorial located just east of playground. Item Donated: Kris Johnson Memorial Bench, Tree, and Plaque. KRIS JOHNSON. SEPT. 7, 1966 - JAN. 19, 1985. "FRIENDS ARE FRIENDS FOREVER IF THE LORD'S THE LORD OF THEM. AND A FRIEND WILL NOT SAY NEVER `CAUSE THE WELCOME WILL NOT END THOUGH IT'S HARD TO LET YOU GO IN THE FATHER'S HANDS WE KNOW, THAT A LIFE TIME'S NOT TOO LONG TO LIVE AS FRIENDS." Donation By: Donated by friends. 4/87 Tree $400; 5/87 Plaque $304; 7/87 Bench $445. Date of Donation: October 1987 Location: Arden Park, 5230 Minnehaha Blvd, next to Playground, north end of Park Item Donated: Mim Cashman Memorial Plaques. TO MIM, HAYZELLE, AND JEAN FROM THEIR KIDS AT CREEKSIDE, 1987. IN MEMORY OF MIM CASHMAN CREEKSIDE CHILDREN'S PLACE 1987. Donation By: Donated by Friends: two plaques, bench, tree. Date of Donation: 86-88 Location: Braemar Park, 7301 S. County Road 18. Baseball Complex. Item Donated: Public Announcement System, Rain Tarps and Batting Cage Net. Donation By: Edina Baseball Association, 3 yr. - $ 5,000 donation. Date of Donation: May 1988 Location: Lake Cornelia Park, 4300 West 66' St. Extends around the park ® Item Donated: Vita Course Signs, Exercise Course. Donation By: Douglas Robinson - Fairview Southdale Hospital. Date of Donation: June 1988 Location: Wooddale Park, West 50t' and Woddale Ave. Next to shelter Item Donated: Richard E. Byrd III Memorial. Drinking Fountain and Plaque. IN MEMORY OF OUR GIFT OF LOVE RICHARD E. BYRD III, SEPTEMBER 6, 1987 - MAY 18, 1988. Donation By: Family and Friends. Drinking Fountain and Plaque. r 2000 City of Edina Study Executive Summary EXECUTIVE SUMMARY City of Edina Methodology: Decision Resources, Ltd., contacted 400 randomly selected households in the City of Edina. Residents were interviewed by telephone between March 15 and 22, 2000. The average interview took nineteen minutes. The results of this sample may be projected to the universe of all adult residents of the City of Edina within ± 5.0% in 95 out of 100 cases. Residential Demographics: The typical Edina resident had lived in the city for 14.1 years. While 24% had resided there for five years or less, 22% had been in the community for over thirty years. The median adult age of residents was calculated as 53.5 years old. Twenty-nine percent of the sample were under 45 years old, while 32% were 65 years old or older. Women outnumbered men by 8% in the sample. Seniors resided in 34% of the households; in fact, exclusively senior households composed 23% of the city's households. School -aged children were in 30% of the households, and pre-schoolers could be found in 15% of them. Thirty percent of the households reported membership in a private health club. Seventy-seven percent of sample owned their present residences. The median home value in the city was found to be $246,000.00. Fourteen percent of the homes were valued under $150,000.00, and 24% posted values in excess of $350,000.00. Thirty-two percent of the households in the sample were in Ward One, while 26% were located in Ward Two. Twenty-four percent of the respondents resided in Ward Four, and 19% were in Ward Three. General Perspectives on the Community: Twenty-nine percent of the residents pointed to the city's "location" as the characteristic they liked most about living in the city. "Schools," at 15%, "nice people" and "safe," each mentioned by 10%, and "strong neighborhoods" and "parks," each cited by 8%, followed. Seven percent pointed to "amenities," while 6% liked "city services" and 4% cited "city government." 2000 City of Edina Study Executive Summary A solid 94% rated the overall quality of the parks, trails, and recreational facilities as either "excellent" or "good." A small 5% saw them as "only fair." Upkeep and maintenance was similarly well-regarded: 93% rated them as "excellent" or "good," while 6% judged them lower. In rating the availability of city parks and recreational facilities in meeting the needs of Edina residents — both children and adults — 56% thought they were "sufficient to meet most needs." Twenty percent felt they were "sufficient to meet all needs." Only 9% rated them as limited or insufficient. Twenty-five percent reported that "general availability" was the most important service or aspect of the Edina Park and Recreation System. "Recreational programs" was similarly regarded by 22%. "Upkeep" followed at 13%. Five percent each mentioned "trails," "parks," and "golf courses," while 3% pointed to "open spaces." In comparison with neighboring suburbs, 60% thought the Edina Park and Recreation System was either "much better" or "somewhat better." Twenty-four percent judged it to be "about the same," while 5% thought it was "somewhat worse." An almost unanimous 96% agreed "an extensive and attractive park and recreation system helps increase property values in the community." In fact, 74% "strongly agreed" with this statement. Only 3% registered disagreement. Individual Recreational Preferences: "Walking and jogging" was the favorite outdoor leisure time recreational activity, at 48%. Nineteen percent cited "golfing," and "biking" was indicated by 9%. Four percent each mentioned "boating and fishing" and "tennis." Nine percent posted an assortment of various sports, while 3% enjoyed "gardening." Twenty-one percent reported they did not regularly use any park or recreational facility in the City of Edina. "Cornelia Park" was regularly used by 11% and 15% went to "Braemar" or "Braemar Golf Course." Seven percent cited `Bredesen Park," while 5% mentioned "Pamela Park." By an 80%-10% margin, Edina residents generally preferred individual activities, such as walking or running, over group activities, such as softball or soccer. Ten percent indicated "no preference." Page 2 2000 City of Edina Study Executive Summary Current Park System Facilities and Services: Decisive majorities of residents thought there were "about the right number" of outdoor recreational facilities for toddlers aged 2 to 4, outdoor recreational facilities for young children aged 5 to 12, outdoor recreational facilities for adults, outdoor recreational facilities for seniors, and parking spaces providing easy access to recreational facilities. Many residents were unable to evaluate outdoor recreational facilities for teens aged 13 to 17, although those holding opinions tended to feel the city had "about the right amount." Twenty-two percent, though, felt the number of outdoor recreational facilities for teens aged 13 to 17 was "too few." A slight plurality, 32%, however, believed there were "too few" indoor recreational walking/running facilities; 31% felt there were "about the right amount," while 36% were "unsure." From what they had heard or seen, 70% thought the City's park and recreational facilities were "used about the right amount." Ten percent saw them as "too crowded," and 8% felt they were "left unused." Bond Referendum Components: Residents were initially queried about their support for a tax increase to undertake 25.5 million dollars of recreational facility additions and improvements at the Community Center Campus and Edina Public School Campuses. Three proposals received impressive majorities of support: increases parking at the Community Center, renovation and remodeling of the Community Center Auditorium, and renovation of the swimming pool at South View Middle School and either construction of a new swimming pool or renovation of the current pool at Valley View Middle School. In each case at least 59% supported the proposal and less than 21% opposed it. Narrower majorities were registered in support of two projects: additional gymnasiums at the Community Center and Concord School and upgrading of the soccer, softball, and baseball fields at Edina High School. Weak support or outright opposition was expressed on three components: a 49%-33% split supported lighting the tennis courts for night play at the Community Center; a 38%-34% verdict opposed renovation of the Kuhlman Field Stadium, including artificial turf, and, a 43%-35% judgment opposed an air -supported fabric dome at the Kuhlman Field Stadium during winter months. Residents were next queried about their support for a tax increase to undertake 4.5 million dollars of recreational facility additions and improvements at City Parks. Four proposals received significant support: upgrading of existing fencing, parking lots, and tennis courts; construction of additional trails and improvement of existing trails; installment of fire protection systems at Page 3 2000 City of Edina Study Executive Summary Braemar Arena and two historical buildings; and, improvement of pathways at three parks and provision of additional pathways at Cornelia School Park. In each case, over 60% favored the project and less than 30% opposed it. A narrower majority, 53%, favored upgrading softball, baseball, and soccer fields, while a 35%-18% plurality opted for development of Van Valkenburg neighborhood park and playground area. Only one proposal was opposed: by a 32%-23% margin, residents rejected a tax increase for replacement of the Courtney Fields concessions building. Referendum Atmospherics: The typical Edina resident would support a property tax increase of $138.00 per year for a plan to expand and improve recreational facilities in the City of Edina. Seventeen percent, however, would support "no tax increase" for this purpose. But, on the other hand, 16% would support property tax increases of $250.00 annually. In reaction to a 3 0. 0 million dollar bond referendum proposal for the building of additional gymnasiums, renovation of sports stadiums and the community auditorium, trail expansions and improvements, improvement of sports fields, and upgrading of swimming pool facilities, a 60%- 33% majority favored the package. Support was principally based upon "need," "benefit to the community," "maintenance of property values," and "acceptable cost." Opposition stemmed from "lack of need," "too comprehensive of a proposal," and "high taxes." Summary and Conclusions: Edina residents were very satisfied with the current park and recreation system. They gave it very high ratings both overall and for maintenance and upkeep. In fact, 60% felt the system was "better" than any of those in neighboring suburbs. Almost 80% regularly used the system, and 96% believed there was a strong tie between an extensive and attractive park and recreation system and residential property values. 2. Walking and running facilities play a special role for most residents; almost one-half of the sample listed those activities as their favorite outdoor leisure time activity. Similarly, there was a marked preference for individual recreational activities over group activities. A key information deficit, though, was noted in the perception that current facilities met residential demand and were generally not crowded. The City may wish to inform residents more fully about the existing gaps between demand and availability. Page 4 2000 City of Edina Study Executive Summary 4. Residents were especially keen about several expansions and improvements: • renovation and remodeling of the Community Center Auditorium • increased parking at the Community Center • renovation of the swimming pool at South View Middle School and either construction of a new pool or renovation of the current pool and Valley View Middle School • construction of additional trails and improvement of existing trails • installment of fire protection systems at three facilities • improvement of pathways at three parks and additional pathways at Cornelia School Park • Upgrading existing fencing, parking lots, and tennis courts in need or repair or replacement In every case, at least 59% favored the proposal and opposition was below 30%. 5. Two proposals, though, were somewhat controversial: • renovation of the Kuhlman Field Stadium, including artificial turf for the field and widening of the track • air -supported fabric dome at Kuhlman Field Stadium during winter months While neither of these components are "deal killers," the level of opposition complicates the passage of any referendum package. It will be essential to better define and discuss these components either prior to or during the campaign. 6. The 30.0 million dollar bond proposal stands a reasonable chance of passage if a strong information and grassroots advocacy campaign is assembled. The comfort level for a tax increase of a typical resident was $138.00 per year, consistent with the 3 0. 0 million dollar bond proposal. Page 5 MEMORIALS AND DONATIONS POLICY From my perspective, I believe that there needs to be a policy in place that deals with the issue of receiving and appropriately recognizing donations to the park system. We have always encouraged and welcomed donations from civic groups, organizations, individuals, businesses or churches for a variety of community programs, projects, events, equipment, park amenities and land. Giving appropriate recognition to the donor(s) has become and will always be an important factor when accepting donations. The questions and problems that have surfaced regarding permanent plaques on park amenities are: • Park users complain that their public park looks like a cemetery (promotes a negative park experience). • Individuals want their 20 year old worn plaque replaced with a new one at the City's expense. • How many years should a plaque appear on a park amenity, such as a bench, a tree, a drinking fountain, a statue, etc.? • How many plaques should be allowed at each park (per acre)? • What dollar amount donation is worthy of having a permanent plaque placed on the park amenity? Giving appropriate recognition to the donor(s) will always be an important factor when accepting donations. I propose that donations (and/or memorials) be recognized in a manner based on the amount or dollar value of the donation. In other words, I propose that all donations greater than $300.00 but less than $5,000 that are accepted by the City of Edina be recognized by: 1. Displaying donation, name of donor, name or names of those given in memory of (if applicable) on the City's web site for one calendar year (January 1 -December 31). 2. Displaying donation, name of donor, name or names of those given in memory of (if applicable) in the City's About Town publication once during the calendar year (the first edition of each year). 3. Sending a letter of appreciation from the Mayor to the donor(s) for their contribution. 4. Keeping a permanent record of the contribution in the archives of the Edina Historical Society. For donations of $5,000-$24,999, I propose that they be recognized by: 1. Displaying donation, name of donor, name or names of those given in memory of (if applicable) on the City's web site for one calendar year (January 1 -December 31). 2. Displaying donation, name of donor, name or names of those given in memory of (if applicable) in the City's About Town publication once during the calendar year (the first edition of each year). 3. Sending a letter of appreciation from the Mayor to the donor(s) for their contribution. 4. Keeping a permanent record of the contribution in the archives of the Edina Historical Society. 5. Permanently displaying the name(s) of donor(s) on "CONTRIBUTORS TO THE EDINA PARK SYSTEM" board under the bronze category. 6. Upon request, displaying a permanent bronze casting of the name of the donor and accompanying language at a location approved by the Park and Recreation Director. For donations of $25,000 or more, I propose that they be recognized by: 1. Displaying donation, name of donor, name or names of those given in memory of (if applicable) on the City's web site for one calendar year (January 1 -December 31). 2. Displaying donation, name of donor, name or names of those given in memory of (if applicable) in the City's About Town publication once during the calendar year (the first edition of each year). 3. Presenting an engraved plaque of appreciation by the Mayor to the donor(s) for their contribution at an appropriate time and location, i.e. a ribbon cutting ceremony, a City Council meeting, or All Volunteers Awards Reception, etc. 4. Keeping a permanent record of the contribution in the archives of the Edina Historical Society. 5. Permanently displaying the name(s) of donor(s) on "CONTRIBUTORS TO THE EDINA PARK SYSTEM" board under the appropriate category, i.e. Silver, Gold or Platinum. 6. Upon request, displaying a permanent bronze casting of the name of the donor and accompanying language at a location approved by the Park and Recreation Director. The permanent display board that gives recognition to those who have made significant contributions to the park system would have the following categories: CONTRIBUTORS TO THE EDINA PARK SYSTEM PLATINUM $100,000 or more GOLD $50,000 - $99,999 SILVER $25,000 - $49,999 BRONZE $5,000 - $24,999 Those who have contributed less than $5,000 at one time would not be placed on this permanently and publicly displayed board. Those who have collectively contributed more than $5,000 over a period of time (but never $5,000 or more at any one time) would still not be placed on the board. I propose that this permanent display board be placed in the Council Chambers or its adjacent hallway. If the Park Board prefers to have this display in a park setting instead, I propose that it be displayed at Edinborough Park. Both locations are secure and highly visible by the public. Fa I would further propose that the display board be retroactive to include all those individuals, businesses and organizations who have made significant contributions (bronze, silver, gold or platinum) to the park system in the past. This would require some extensive research, however, I believe that the results would be appreciated and worthwhile. This proposed policy is not to be confused with the naming of parks, facilities, amenities, programs, or events. This should be considered by the Park Board and City Council on a case by case basis. There is no question that this new policy will have a slight negative effect on future donations. There are most definitely people who will choose not to donate if they cannot have a permanent plaque displayed in public on their donated amenity. The public display of their donation (or in most cases their display of passion for a lost loved one) is more important than their passion to improve their public park. There will still be those who will make donations under $5,000 to the park system without demanding a permanent plaque on the amenity. I believe that there in lies the judgement call. Are we willing to say no to permanent plaques on park amenities for donations under $5,000 at the expense of losing those future donations? Park Board action is requested on this agenda item. SUMMARY OF PARKS REFERENDA TUESDAY, MAY 7, 1996 QUESTION #1: $5,500,000 to improve public parks and other recreational facilities in the City of Edina. QUESTION #2: $2,500,000 to expand Braemar Arena to provide an additional indoor ice skating rink. PUBLICITY: • Park Referenda Publicity Team. • 30 separate input meetings/presentations. • Slide show presentation. • Cable television coverage. • Sun Newspaper coverage. • Mass mailing to all Edina residents. • Federated Womens Club phone calling committee. VOTER TURNOUT: • 4,416 voters came to the polls. • 12.93% of the total number of registered voters (average turn -out for special elections is approximately 7%) VOTER RESULTS: Question No. 1 - $5.5 Million • 76.74% VOTED YES (3,388 YES VOTES) • 23.19% VOTED NO (1,024 NO VOTES) Question No. 2 - $2.5 Million • 60.29% VOTED YES (2,662 YES VOTES) • 39.34% VOTED NO (1,737 NO VOTES) EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS REBUILD TENNIS COURTS $128,080: • Countryside Park • Highlands Park • Lake Cornelia Park • Todd Park REGRADE & PAVE TWO OUTDOOR HOCKEY RINKS $34,420 • Lewis Park • Normandale Park PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT AT 10 SITES $745,000: • Arden Park • Birchcrest Park • Braemar Park • Garden Park • Highlands Park • Lake Cornelia Park • Tingdale Park • Todd Park • Walnut Ridge Park • Weber Park WALKING PATH BRIDGES $113,000: • Braemar Park bridge. • Beard Avenue bridge. • Walnut Ridge Park bridge. • Heights Park bridge. PARK FENCING $40,554: • Birchcrest Park • Chowen Park • Countryside Park • Garden Park • St. Johns Park • Tingdale Park • Weber Park BASKETBALL COURTS $120,450: • Alden Park. • Chowen Park. • Normandale Park. • Strachauer Park. • Heights Park. • Weber Park. FOUR PARK SHELTER BUILDINGS & 2 COMFORT STATIONS $1,494,741 PARK SHELTER BUILDINGS: • Cornelia School Park • Todd Park • Walnut Ridge Park • Weber Park COMFORT STATIONS: • Kenneth Rosland Park • Garden Park INCLUDES REMODELING LEWIS PARK BATHROOMS. ROOF REPAIR $66,610: Pamela Park shelter building & Creek Valley Park shelter building. PARKING LOTS $36,820: Normandale Park and Strachauer Park OUTDOOR HOCKEY RINKS $83,420: • Cornelia School Park. • Lewis Park. • Normandale Park. • Strachauer Park. WALKING PATHS $236,000: • Bredesen Park. • Heights Park. • Todd Park. • Lake Cornelia Park. • Alden Park. • Arneson Acres Park. • Chowen Park. BASEBALL DUGOUTS $76,534: Countryside Park and Courtney Fields. BALL FIELD RE -GRADING $94,791: • Courtney Fields, Braemar Park. • Softball fields, Pamela Park. • Soccer field, Pamela Park. BASEBALL DUGOUTS $76,534: • Courtney Fields, Braemar Park • Little League Field, Countryside Park. BALL FIELD RE -GRADING $94,791: • Courtney Fields, Braemar Park. • Softball fields, Pamela Park. • Soccer field, Pamela Park. BASEBALL FIELD LIGHTING $71,562: • Courtney Fields, Braemar Park. BALL FIELD FENCING $147,324: • Softball fields, Pamela Park. • Courtney Fields, Braemar Park. • Baseball field, Garden Park. IRRIGATION SYSTEMS $114,324: • Courtney Fields, Braemar Park. • Baseball field, Countryside Park. • Softball fields, Pamela Park. • Grounds, Arneson Acres Park. AQUATIC CENTER $1,816,143: • Replacement bathhouse. • New wading pool and water play equipment. • New filtration systems. • Expanded deck area, fencing, grounds, etc. EDINA ART CENTER $53,447: • New electric kilns. • Media lab equipment. • New boiler. • HVAC for Nichols room. • Carpeting. • Kitchen remodeling. • Shelves, chairs and misc. items. BRIAN WIPPERMANN GUN RANGE $79,474: • Site renovation. • Grounds excavation. • Lead reclamation. BRAEMAR WEST ARENA $979,034: • Locker room renovation. • Emergency door replacements. • Dasher board replacements. • Skate tile floor replacement. • New ice resurfacing machine. TOTALS • PARK IMPROVEMENTS $6,699,390 • BRAEMAR SOUTH ICE ARENA $2,960.102 • GRAND TOTAL $9,659,492 NEW INFRASTRUCTURE $840,000: (13% NEW AMENITIES) • Strachauer Park hockey rink & parking lot. • Lake Cornelia Park and Garden Park comfort stations. • Todd Park shelter building & pathway. • Cornelia School & Walnut Ridge shelter buildings. • Van Valkenburg Park safety netting. • Irrigation systems; Pamela, Countryside etc. IMPROVE EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE $5,859,390: (87% MAINTENANCE ITEMS) ENTERPRISE FACILITIES Edina Aquatic Center $1,816,143 Edina Art Center $53,447 Gun Range $79,474 Braemar West Arena $979,034 GRAND TOTAL $2,928,098 General Park Improvements $397719292 (56%) Enterprise Facility Improvements $299289098 (44%) THE END RESULTS OF THE SEPTEMBER 4, 1975, SPECIAL ELECTION ON PARK IMPROVEMENTS, PARKLAND ACQUISITION AND OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION Question No. 1 Shall the city of Edina be authorized to borrow money by issuing its general obligation bonds in the amount of $2,000,000 for the purpose of improving, developing and equipping parks, playgrounds and recreational facilities of the City? YES: 2,334 (49%) NO: 2,439 (51%) FAILED BY 105 VOTES Question No. 2 Shall the City of Edina be authorized to borrow money by issuing its general obligation bonds in the amount of $450,000 for the purpose of acquiring open space land within the city to be preserved substantially in its natural state for recreational use? YES: 2,568 (54%) NO: 2,200 (46%) PASSED BY 368 VOTES Question No. 3 Shall the City of Edina be authorized to borrow money by issuing its general obligation bonds in the amount of $500,000 for the purpose of acquiring lands within the city to be developed for local or neighborhood park or playground purposes? YES: 2,405 (50.5%) NO: 2,360 (49.5%) PASSED BY 45 VOTES RESULTS OF THE MAY 7 1996 PARKS REFERENDA Question No. 1 Shall the City of Edina, Minnesota, be authorized to borrow money by the issuance of general obligation bonds of the City of Edina in an amount not to exceed $5,500,000 to improve public parks and other recreational facilities in the City of Edina? YES: 3,388 (77%) NO: 1,024 (23%) PASSED BY 2,364 VOTES Question No. 2 Shall the city of Edina, Minnesota, be authorized to borrow money by the issuance of general obligation bonds of the City of Edina in an amount not to exceed $2,500,000 to expand Braemar Arena to provide an additional indoor ice skating rink? YES: 2,662 (60%) NO: 1,737 (40%) PASSED BY 925 VOTES PROJECT COST $ 3 -Gym Fieldhouse $ 16,328,956 100% $ 5,092,337 31% 3 -Gym Fieldhouse - Base Option $ 3,900,737 Renovation of South View Pool $ 322,658 Elevated Track $ 930,600 SUBTOTAL All Wood Floors $ 36,000 Air Conditioniny, $ 225,000 Concord Elementa1y Gym Addition $ 1,522,800 9% South View Middle School Gym Improvements $ 244,400 1% Communi!y Center BuildingImprovements $ 2,359,725 14% Large Community Center Gym $ 23,500 Small Community Center Gym $ 192,700 Community Center Gym Lobby/Concession $ 164,500 Community Center Locker Rooms $ 550,785 Community Center Theatre - 770 Seats $ 1,428,240 Community Center Theater $ 974,725 New/Separate Entrance/Lobby,Toilets $ 453,515 (Optional) Community Center Campus Improvements $ 786,454 5% Tennis Court Bans Board (concrete wall) $ 6,000 Lower/East Campus Fields (sand, draintile and irrigation) $ 230,300 South Parking Relocation and Expansion $ 235,000 North Park Expansion $ 108,100 New Pedestrian Pathway (lower to upper campus) $ 4,700 Site Restoration and Landscaping $ 94,000 Normandale Playground $ 108,354 Kuhlman Stadium Improvements $ 5,093,720 31% Kuhlman Stadium - Base Improvements $ 3,212,920 Dome - Option 2 $ 969,000 Reconstruct/Widen Track to 8 Lanes, Relocate Field Events $ 145,700 Improve Drainage (perimeter curb and draintile) $ 70,500 Resilient Turf Football/Soccer Field Surface $ 611,000 Improve and Upgrade Stadium Lighting $ 84,600 Edina High School Fields $ 1,229,520 8% EHS Baseball field (1 (a 300' x 280') $ 353,440 EHS Softball fields (1 na, 220'x220' and 1 () 200'x200') $ 607,240 EHS Soccer fields (2 (ay360 x 160) $ 268,840 TOTAL CONSTRUCTION $ 16,328,956 100% TOTAL PROJECT (1.33 x Construction Cost) - Includes All Soft Costs $ 21,717,512 New Valley View Pool $ 5,785,500 Renovation of South View Pool $ 322,658 City Parks Improvements $ 4,500,000 SUBTOTAL $ 32,325,670 Less Edina Public Schools Contribution $ (1,351,926) Stadium Bleachers $ (777,800) Concord Gym $ (401,689) ECC Coaches Remodel $ (28,326) Normandale Playground $ _ (144,111) TOTAL REFERENDUM $ 30,973.744 a Sheet1 PROPOSED PROJECTS FOR A REFERENDUM PARK & RECREATION BALL FIELD IMPROVEMENTS BALL FIELD & GROUNDS IRRIGATION: ESTIMATE Cornelia School Park little league field $ 25,000 Cornelia School Park (2 ball fields) $ 60,000 Countryside Park (west baseball field) $ 9,800 Courtney Ball Fields (Braemar Park field #4) $ 15,000 Highlands Park (1 softball field) $ 30,000 Kenneth Rosland Park (baseball field) $ 20,000 Pamela Park (junior soccer field) $ 20,000 Todd Park $ 15,000 Tupa Park $ 20,000 Weber Park $ 60,000 Wooddale Park $ 15,000 $ 289,800 REGRADE & SEED BALL FIELD: Cornelia School Park little league field $ 40,000 Cornelia School Park (two ball fields) $ 150,000 Countryside Park (west baseball field) $ 50,000 Courtney Ball Fields (Braemar Park field #4) $ 100,000 Highlands Park (senior soccer field) $ 250,000 Lewis Park (east soccer field) $ 250,000 Lewis Park (west soccer field) $ 250,000 Lewis Park (central soccer field) $ 250,000 Pamela Park (4th New field) $ 30,000 Rosland Park (reorient baseball field) $ 30,000 Weber Park (1 baseball and 1 softball field) $ 95,000 $ 1,495,000 BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM: Braemar West Arena $ 75,000 Tupa Park (Grange Hall and Cahill School) $ 50,000 $ 125,000 REPLACE CONCESSIONS BUILDING: Courtney Fields Complex - Braemar Park $ 780,200 $ 780,200 Page 1 Sheet1 PARK DEVELOPMENT COMPLETION OF VAN VALKENBURG PARK: Grading and landscaping $ 100,000 Hard surface court $ 15,000 Pathway $ 30,000 Playground equipment & misc. park equip. $ 100,000 Van Valkenburg Park (3 batting cages) $ 60,000 $ 305,000 IMPROVED ENTRANCE TO PARK: Arneson Acres Park (new island entrance) $ 50,000 $ 50,000 LIFT STATION FOR SANITARY SEWER: Arneson Acres Park (greenhouse) $ 35,000 $ 35,000 PATHWAY REPAIR/ADDITIONS: Arneson Acres Park $ 30,000 Cornelia School Park $ 100,000 Rosland Park $ 75,000 Walnut Ridge Park $ 60,000 $ 265,000 PARKING LOT REPAIR/ADDITION: Arneson Park $ 50,000 Braemar Arena $ 100,000 Rosland Park $ 300,000 Pamela Park (south End) $ 60,000 Weber Park $ 200,000 $ 710,000 REPAIR/REPLACE FENCING: Bredesen Park $ 150,000 Cornelia School Park (adult softball field) $ 60,000 Courtney Ball Fields (field #4) $ 40,000 Rosland Park (playground/picnic area) $ 60,000 Rosland Park (baseball field) $ 20,000 Weber Park $ 25,000 $ 355,000 REPLACE DUGOUTS: Page 2 • Sheetl Courtney Ball Fields (field #4) $ 40,000 $ 40,000 TENNISI COURTS: Walnut Ridge Park (rebuild) $ 50,000 $ 50,000 TOTAL PARK & RECREATION DEPARTMENT $ 4,500,000 Page 3