HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-06-08 Park Board PacketCity of Edina
EDINA PARK BOARD
TUESDAY, JUNE 8, 1999
5:30 P.M. DINNER
6:00 P.M. GOLF
7:30 P.M. MEETING
CENTRUM BUILDING
CENTENNIAL LAKES PARK
MEETING
AGENDA
*1. Approval of Tuesday, May 11, 1999, Park Board Minutes.
2. Edinborough Park & Centennial Lakes Park; Tom Shirley & Ann Kattreh.
*3. Appointment to Edina Community Education Services Board.
*4. Revised Comprehensive Plan.
*5. Lewis Park Bandy/Soccer Field.
6. Other.
* 7. Adj ournment.
* 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, Direc r
Edina Park and Recreati n Department
Date: May 27 1999
Re: JUNE 8, 1999, PARK BOARD MEETING STAFF REPORT.
Enclosed you should find the following items:
1. Tuesday, June 8, 1999, Park Board Agenda.
2. Tuesday, May 11, 1999, Park Board Minutes.
3. Letters to and from Kristi Pooler.
4. Faxes to and from Patrick McMullan.
5. Letters to and from Eric Falk.
6. Letter from Doug Johnson.
7. Letters to and from Alex Darbut.
8. Revised Comprehensive Plan.
9. Past Park Board minutes from May, June and July of 1995.
10. Staff Report from May of 1995.
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
in case last minute items come up between now and the Park Board meeting, plus,
cover any other concerns of Park Board members and/or attendees.
EDINBOROUGH PARK & CENTENNIAL LAKES PARK
As requested by the Park Board, staff will be giving facility and program
presentation reports each month. This month, Tom Shirley, Manager of
Edinborough and Centennial Lakes Parks & Ann Kattreh, Assistant Manager, will be
presenting an overview of the two parks and their respective programs.
No Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
APPOINTMENT TO EDINA COMMUNITY EDUCATION SERVICES BOARD
In accordance with City Code, the Park Board appoints a representative to the Edina
Community Education Services Board. As pointed out in Doug Johnson's letter, this
person is asked to attend their monthly meetings:
• once/month every month except July (no meetings in July).
• 2°d Thursday of each month.
• 7:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m.
• Edina Community Center.
• • School District Office Conference Room #200.
Former Park Board member, Jean Rydell, held that appointment for several years and
found it to be very rewarding and informative.
Park Board action is requested on this matter.
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REVISED COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
The enclosed Comprehensive Plan reflects the few revisions requested by the Park
Board at the May meeting. The revisions include a revised statement of the
relationship between the City and youth athletic associations. A brief finance section
has also been added.
Please know that there is a new State law that requires submittal of a Comprehensive
Plan every five (5) years. There has never been a requirement in the past.
Park Board action is requested on this matter.
LEWIS PARK BANDY/SOCCER FIELD
Park Board Chairman, Andrew Herring, requested this issue to be addressed at the
June meeting. The issue is whether or not the bandy/soccer field should be
developed into a more playable surface for soccer, which would result in elimination
of the field for bandy.
Currently this space is flooded during the winter months primarily for a sport called
bandy. Bandy is a sport which was brought tot he United States in a sport exchange
with softball. Since its beginning, it has been predominantly adults but has had some
youth participants. In the early years, Edina seemed well represented but as time has
gone on, as few as ten percent of the participants are actually Edina residents.
Last year was the first year that the Edina Park and Recreation Department did not
officially run the adult bandy program but instead rented the facility to the American
Bandy Association (ABA). The ABA rented two facilities last year to run its
programs: Lewis Park for $60/hour and the John Rose Oval in Roseville for
$240/hour.
After flooding this large open space at Lewis Park to create a skating surface during
the winter months, we are unable to develop a healthy stand of turf grasses with
proper drainage that is conducive for soccer use during the warm weather months.
This has become a more critical issue in the advent of increased demand for
soccer/football fields. The increase in demand for these fields is due to an increase in
youth participants in soccer and football, as well as, the newly created teams and
programs for rugby and lacrosse.
As you will notice in the enclosed minutes and staff report from 1995, this is not a
new issue, however, the demand for the field has increased significantly. You will
further note that the Edina Soccer Association offered to pay for the field
improvements in 1995, however, the City at that time rejected the offer. The two
major oppositions to the field development were:
1. Bandy players (99% whom are non-residents) who did not want to lose such a
fine facility at such a reasonable cost.
2. Lewis Park neighbors who did not want to lose the large sheet of ice for their
neighborhood use.
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To develop the field into a quality outdoor soccer/football field, bandy would have to
be eliminated and there would need to be significant funding to finance the
improvement. The field would need to be properly graded with proper sand/soil
mixtures (currently a flat surface), irrigated, seeded, and have drain tile installed for
proper field drainage. To develop the site into a quality soccer field would cost
approximately $50,000-$85,000 depending upon costs to sod vs. seed.
If the Park Board chooses to pursue this issue, staff would recommend sending
notices to the Lewis Park neighborhood and the bandy team managers to allow them
to be involved in the decision making process. Simply eliminating the bandy
program does not resolve the issue. There needs to be adequate funding to develop
the site. With levy limits in place for at least another year, large capital expenditures
are becoming a difficult challenge to fund. There may, however, be alternate sources
of funding that could be explored.
Staff is requesting that the Park Board decide on a plan of action on this matter.
40
EDINA PARK BOARD
7:30 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MAY 11, 1999
MEMBERS PRESENT: Andrew Herring, Andrew Finsness, David Fredlund, Floyd
Grabiel, Bill Jenkins, George Klus, Chuck Mooty, John Murrin,
Linda Presthus, Karla Sitek, Tom White
STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Ed MacHolda, Janet Canton
OTHERS PRESENT: Marge Ruedy
APPROVAL OF THE TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 1999 PARK BOARD MINUTES
Andy Herring MOVED TO APPROVE THE APRIL 13, 1999 PARK BOARD
MINUTES. Chuck Mooty SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED.
II. ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Mr. Keprios opened up nominations for chair. Bill Jenkins MOVED THAT ANDY
HERRING BE THE CHAIR OF THE PARK BOARD. Chuck Mooty MOVED TO
CLOSE THE NOMINATIONS David Fredlund SECONDED.
Bill Jenkins MOVED THAT TOM WHITE BE VICE -CHAIR OF THE PARK BOARD.
Andy Herring MOVED TO CLOSE THE NOMINATIONS Chuck Mooty SECONDED.
III. WOODDALE PARK DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT
Mr. Keprios indicated that he doesn't have a lot of new information to share at this time,
however, he has another meeting with the committee next month. He stated that he has
completed his research and one item he found surprising was in the agreement with St.
Stephen's Church who donated the parking lot to the City. They gave the City $100,000
and it's assessed to the church over a period of 20 years. The agreement between the City
and the church is that the City can do whatever they want with the parking lot and there
are no encumbrances. However, there is very much a moral obligation to give them
something for the $100,000 that they donated for the parking lot. The City maintains it
and there are no stipulations for public parking. Mr. Keprios stated that the committee
will review his report as well as the research he has done and from there they will
prioritize what they want done first, second and third.
Mr. Keprios stated that only girls softball games have been scheduled at Wooddale Park
this year; everything else has been moved to other parks.
Mr. Keprios noted that he met with Jack Rice and he and his former wife have decided
that they support the idea of moving the Greg Rice picnic shelter to Utley Park if that is
what the community wants to do. He stated that when they get to the decision making
process he will bring it before the Park Board.
Mr. White asked if in essence the whole park is going to be redesigned or are they just
trying to figure out a location for the comfort station. Mr. Keprios replied his
recommendation is not going to be to redesign the park but rather decide on what kind of
a building they want and what other improvements they would like, as well as, prioritize
what they want done. He added that he thinks the playground equipment is pretty high on
their list.
Mr. Mooty asked where the dollars are going to come from to do this. Mr. Keprios
replied there are dollars to do one but not both the playground equipment and the
building. He then explained that the money is coming from the loan that was paid back
from the Aquatic Center. We were actually going to use those dollars for the building but
now the question is do they want playground equipment first or the building first.
Mr. Herring asked if there is a portable toilet at Wooddale Park in which Mr. Keprios
replied one will be put in once the girls softball games start.
IV. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Mr. Keprios indicated that the comprehensive plan he sent out is still in draft form and is
subject to change but asked if anyone had any questions or comments. Mr. Jenkins asked
if this is done every five years in which Mr. Keprios replied yes.
Mr. Mooty noted that there is one area where it talks about the relationship with the
athletic associations and refers to minutes from a 1977 Park Board meeting. He noted
that one paragraph states that the Park Board in cooperation with Edina Park and
Recreation will administer and help each individual association plan, provide facilities
and give professional direction regarding the operation of their association. Mr. Mooty
indicated that his concern is do we really want to say that we are giving professional
direction as a Park Board because he doesn't feel we are nor does he think the Park Board
should expose itself to that.
Mr. Jenkins commented that he thinks professional direction has been the staff's function
and doesn't feel it's a directive to get into the nitty gritty of the associations. Mr. Keprios
indicated that those minutes were from over 20 years ago and could be updated. Mr.
Keprios stated that we do provide professional advice as far as the philosophy youth
sports programs, as well as, what we feel is best for the program as a whole and
especially for the children. Mr. Mooty stated that his only point is he doesn't think we
2
need to say it and if we don't need to say he would rather not say it. Mr. Keprios
responded that he will rewrite it to reflect more of what the philosophy is today.
Everyone agreed to have Mr. Keprios rewrite this section and bring it back before the
Park Board.
Mr. Mooty indicated that as far as financing goes there isn't any mention of the
appropriation of capital dollars which he feels is a big issue. Mr. Keprios commented that
is a key point, however, the finances were intentionally left off because it is such a
question mark right now. Mr. Mooty questioned if this is something that should be
highlighted because it is a significant issue. Mr. Keprios noted that he will add a finance
section.
Mr. Herring asked if this report needs to be approved by the City Council and also asked
when it is due. Mr. Keprios replied he has reached the deadline he was given but is not
certain about the final deadline for City Council review. He explained that park and
recreation is just one component of the Comprehensive Plan.
Mr. Herring noted that it states the City of Edina will not sell or donate ownership of any
park or open space acreage as a policy. He asked if that has to be put in there, do we have
to limit ourselves. He explained that as an example is Fox Meadow Park really worth
keeping as a park because there is no easy access and how much is that land worth. He
stated that he thinks there are some issues. Mr. Keprios responded that is a policy that the
City Council came up with, it's not an ordinance, so if it's something that this group feels
strongly about then the Park Board should make a recommendation to the City Council to
alter to policy.
Mr. Herring indicated that he would also like to see the long range master plan for the
Aquatic Center to include Rosland Park. He noted that when the renovations were done
at the Aquatic Center one of the things that we looked at was a broader renovation that
included some areas beyond the pool area such as the picnic area, sand volleyball area,
etc. Mr. Keprios stated that it did include the outer perimeter of the pool with the
volleyball courts but noted that he will put the rest of the park in there.
Mr. Herring noted that it states we will utilize tax increment financing to construct a
municipally owned Senior Citizen's Center and he commented that he is not sure if he is
ready to construct a building and would like to eliminate "to construct". He suggested
using the language "study the feasibility of constructing". Mr. Keprios asked if the board
was okay with that and everyone agreed.
Mr. Herring asked about the pathway around Braemar in which Mr. Keprios responded
that they are still waiting on easements, which the Engineering Department is currently
working on. Mr. Herring asked if that can also be added.
Mr. White asked what is happening with the gun range property in which Mr. Keprios
responded that it is currently being used as a storage building for public works and park
maintenance vehicles. He indicated that the old gun range building is going to be torn
down sometime this summer. Mr. Keprios explained that they haven't completely given
up on the idea of a consortium with other communities to build a multi-million dollar
facility for police and fire training. He also noted that just last week he heard that Eden
Prairie may have an adequate site to do the same thing. Therefore, we are not quite sure
what the future holds for that site.
Mr. Herring commented that on the networking factors of influence and recreational
programming you omitted the Edina School District and stated that he feels this is
actually our number one partner. Mr. Keprios responded Edina Community Services is
listed in which Mr. Herring noted that we utilize the School District itself. Mr. Keprios
indicated that he was referring to just program opportunities. Mr. Herring stated that
maybe that is broad enough although community services is one sub part of the entire
district and the School District does have programming for the youth. Mr. Keprios
commented that is a good suggestion and he will add that to the report.
Mr. Herring indicated that there is no mention about the Richards Golf Course in which
Mr. Keprios replied that he will include that in the report.
Mr. Herring noted that on the last page it states the City of Edina will offer active and
passive recreation opportunities for Edina residents 35 years of age and older to a level
that meets or exceeds demand. How was 35 picked? Mr. Keprios replied he thinks what
happened is at that time they were lacking a senior center and more opportunities for
seniors and this was the age group that was lacking at the time. That will be changed to
read to residents of all ages.
Mr. Herring stated that he absolutely agrees with Mr. Mooty in that it is a glaring
omission to not talk about financing and how we are going to finance these policies. Mr.
Keprios noted that he will include a finance section in the report.
Mr. Keprios indicated that he will have an update at the next meeting of the
Comprehensive Report.
V. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board if there should be items put into this plan or if certain
items should be taken out of the plan. Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board to look at the
priority of everything listed.
Mr. Mooty asked if the priority that is listed is driven by staff's suggestion or by the
previous Park Board. Mr. Keprios responded that it is by staff's suggestion by what he
has been hearing from the community via phone calls, letters, previous Park Board
meetings, visits, etc. He also indicated that this list is very open to change.
Mr. Keprios pointed out that one of the first items is the $150,000 to be used for
Wooddale Park's playground equipment for the year 2000. He noted that he is taking the
4
• assumption that he thinks the committee is going to want the playground equipment
before the comfort station.
Mr. Keprios briefly went through a few items. He indicated that they are going to try to
continue to add the electronic keyless entry system as we go. This will allow us to keep
the doors open during the daylight hours. Mr. Keprios indicated that they also
desperately need a new maintenance garage at the Courtney ballfields.
Mr. Keprios noted that we need an improved entrance to the park at Arneson Acres. We
need to relocate the park identification sign and create a little better left turn - right turn
entrance to that park and stripe in a left turn lane for west bound traffic. The Engineering
Department has already drawn up a plan for this and it really looks good. Mr. Herring
asked if this is a safety issue in which Mr. Keprios replied it's a combination safety
issue/aesthetic issue. Both the Historical Society and Garden Council are strong
proponents of this being done.
Mr. Keprios indicated that the pathway work is on the top of the list and some of this we
will possibly be able to do internally within our operating budget. Mr. Herring asked
how are the pathways prioritized in which Mr. Keprios responded basically by which one
is worse off. He noted that the Engineering Department will hopefully be working on
figuring those out. Mr. Keprios also commented that parking lot repairs have long been
and continue to be a challenging issue.
Mr. Klus indicated that people have asked him about the drinking fountains at the parks
and noted that the drinking fountains that are out there are not working. Mr. Keprios
indicated that right now three of the drinking fountains are being changed out so they are
in the process of being installed and made functional. Mr. Klus then asked if there are any
plans to put in anymore drinking fountains at some of the ballfields where there are not
any. Mr. Keprios asked where specifically? Mr. Klus suggested Highlands and Weber.
Mr. Keprios indicated that is a good suggestion and noted he will include that in the plan.
Mr. Mooty asked about the loan that is being repaid back by the Aquatic Center. He
asked which one is that referring to the $140,000 or the $204,000. Mr. MacHolda replied
that the $140,000 was for the play structure and he is not sure how the $204,000 was
agreed upon. He stated that the $140,000 for the play structure has been paid back in full.
Mr. Mooty asked if the $140,000 is then designated to be utilized as taxable expenditure
dollars or is there a process it needs to go through to be available for capital expenditures.
Mr. Keprios replied that it is supposed to be for "referendum money" which is capital
dollars for Park Improvements. Mr. Mooty asked if that would be the same for the
$204,000 in which Mr. Keprios replied that it is supposed to be paid back to the
Developer's Fund where it came from.
Mr. Keprios explained that the Park Board went to the City Council because they didn't
have enough money for the big play equipment at the pool. The City Council stated that
even if they don't have the money, they need to find a way to get it done. Therefore, it
was considered a loan to the Aquatic Center in which the money came from other park
projects that did not get done. Mr. Keprios then explained that when the referendum
money was spent there was $140,000 of things that didn't essentially get done in the
referendum. Therefore, the $140,000 that was spent on the pool and now has been repaid
back should go to continue working towards the referendum spending plan.
Mr. Keprios explained that the $204,000 was literally borrowed from the Developer's
Fund on a loan basis that is going to be paid back through time. Mr. Herring asked how
will that get paid back? Mr. Keprios explained that it will get paid back out of the profits
from the pool. Mr. MacHolda noted that last year was a very good year. Mr. Herring
asked Mr. MacHolda if he will share the finance information from the pool for last year at
next months meeting.
Mr. Mooty noted that his understanding is we now have $140,000 that is available for
capital expenditures and that the $204,000 is going to be repaid back to the Developer's
Fund which traditionally was a fund that could be tapped for capital expenditures and not
have to be repaid back. Mr. MacHolda stated that in the past the Developer's Fund was
more for a rainy day and not for the Park Department to rely on as capital year to year.
Mr. Keprios commented that we strive to manage the enterprise facilities to cover their
own capital expenditures. The Art Center relied on the Developer's Fund to complete
construction of the Peggy Kelly Media Arts Studio and was not considered a loan.
Mr. Finsness asked what fund is the Developer's Fund? Mr. Keprios explained that
whenever there is a development in town by ordinance they either have to donate a
certain percentage of land to parks or give cash in lieu of land which is about a 7 percent.
Mr. Mooty asked at what point do you know what has been either provided for or granted
as far as capital improvements. Mr. Keprios indicated that he typically finds out through
the budgeting process in September, however, this is a document that changes annually.
Mr. Mooty noted that he is trying to get a census of when you know whether you are in
the ball park or not in the ball park. Mr. Keprios explained that typically the capital plan
has been right around $120,000 a year, however, there hasn't been one for the last three
years because of the park referendum and budgetary constraints due to levy limits.
VI. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Mr. Herring asked if the Park Board would like to have the different facilities managers
come to a Park Board meeting to discuss how they operate and some of the issues they
are faced with. He noted that perhaps each facility could set up a fixed time and have
their presentation last no more than 10 minutes. Mr. Herring also asked if the Park
Board would be in interested in having the presidents of the associations give a
presentation and talk about their issues. This could be done over a period of a few Park
Board meetings. Mr. Mooty expressed that he thinks this would be very helpful because
he doesn't know as much as some of the Park Board members who have been serving for
awhile. Mr. Finsness commented that he agrees it would be great. Mr. Klus also agreed.
Co
Mr. Herring asked Mr. Keprios to schedule these and to make sure the presentations are
kept to approximately 10 minutes.
Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board how they would feel about holding the Park Board
meetings in the new shelter buildings. He noted that he would send out a mailing to the
neighborhood telling them when the Park Board will be meeting in the shelter building at
their neighborhood park so they can come and voice their opinion about the park. This is
an effective method of receiving input from the community. He asked the Park Board
members to think about this.
Mr. Keprios indicated that the June Meeting will be held at Centennial Lakes, we will
play putt -putt golf, have dinner followed by hopefully a light agenda. He then informed
the Park Board that for the July Park Board meeting they are having the Braemar
Inspection Tour, which is 18 holes of golf and a nice dinner. He noted that the Park
Board will not convene unless there is an issue that needs to be addressed.
Mr. White asked when is the park tour scheduled in which Mr. Keprios noted that will be
in August and he would like everyone to start thinking about what they would like to see
included in that tour.
VII. OTHER
A. Rup-by - Mr. Klus earlier had asked what is the situation with Rugby at Highland
Park. Mr. MacHolda explained that currently the programs that are offered are being
expanded and noted that there is a shortage of facilities. He indicated that soccer
continues to grow as well as there is now LaCrosse and Rugby. He stated that because
these sports are not varsity or intramural the school doesn't want to recognize them and
because they are not an athletic association the city doesn't want to recognize them. Mr.
MacHolda stressed that we do not have enough facilities to cover our own teams let alone
adult clubs and private clubs with Edina residents looking for space.
Mr. MacHolda stated that when he talked to the parent manager of the boys rugby team
they decided to use the space between the softball field and soccer field for their training
in which they paid a user fee like everyone else and this space was also going to be used
as a game site. However, nobody knew they were going to have the turnout like they did
which was at least 200 people. He pointed out that Highlands park doesn't have the
parking capacity to accommodate a game like that. Therefore, Steve Dove, the athletic
director at the high school, is going to try to facilitate the last couple of games at
McCarthy. The long and short of it is we are short facilities.
Mr. Mooty asked if they could use the green space South View and the Community
Center in which Mr. MacHolda replied that the School District is concerned it gets too
much use because that is where they hold their outdoor phy-ed classes.
Mr. Herring asked who are the participants in which Mr. MacHolda commented that they
are all Edina residents, both high school students and adults. It was asked how many are
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on a team in which Mr. MacHolda noted there are 15 on a team, so 30 on the field at one
time. Mr. Klus commented that there are clubs all over town that come here to play as
well as Edina goes to other communities to play.
Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. MacHolda if he is receiving any complaints from residents in
which Mr. MacHolda noted that he had one resident call him and stop by because he was
concerned about the parking and didn't like participants walking through his lot.
Mr. Jenkins asked why don't theses sports become an association in which Mr.
MacHolda replied he thinks they are closer to becoming a varsity sport. Mr. Klus
commented that this is a fast growing sport right now in the Twin Cities area.
Mr. Keprios explained that looking at the bigger picture he would like to focus on the
issue of who gets access to the public facilities, who is first, second, third, as well as,
what stipulations need to be met. He noted that he will get this information together and
in the next couple of months it will be on the agenda for the Park Board to discuss.
Ms. Presthus indicated that she noticed the summer shades program that they are running
a basketball clinic at some of the city's basketball courts in the mornings. That means
that no one else can use them from 8:00 a.m. until noon and asked if this is normal
procedure. Mr. Keprios replied that was something that was not supposed to happen and
they had already publicized the program when it was realized what had happened. The
School District did not secure a park permit and therefore, for this year only we are
letting them do that. Otherwise, no, that is not a standard procedure to be able to reserve
basketball courts.
Mr. Mooty suggested that a topic for a future meeting could be to have a better
understanding of how facilities and fields are scheduled as well as the percentage of use,
etc.
B. High School Stadium - Mr. Murrin informed the Park Board that the booster clubs and a
lot of the alumni of Edina High School are actively seeking to renovate the high school
stadium where the football games are played. He noted that it is still in the formative
stages right now but asked if anyone has an opinion or input regarding this to please let
him know.
C. 20/20 Meetings - Mr. Finsness asked if the Park Board will be getting any feedback from
the 20/20 meetings as far as any items that may apply to this board. Mr. Keprios noted
that as he receives minutes from those meetings he will pass them on.
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
George Klus MOVED TO THE ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:45 P.M. Chuck
Mooty SECONDED THE MOTION. MEETING ADJOURNED.
7009 Tupa Dr.
Edina, MN 55439
April 27, 1999
Mr. Glen Smith
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
Dear Mayor Glen Smith,
1 am writing to you, because I feel that girls in Edina are not getting are not getting a fair
chance at all sports. For years, I have been a fan of football and I know alot of other girls who
share this intrest, and yet we have never been offered the opportunity to play on a team. We do
have the choice of playing on an EGAA flag football team, but anyone who is a true fan of
football knows that this attempt at making a girl's team is nothing at all like the real game.
I feel that girls should be given the opportunity to play real highschool football with the
same rules and regulations as any boy's football team. Girls are able to participate in almost any
other sport that boys are allowed to play, and if injuries are what is holding back the formation of
girl's football teams, let me just say that girls are every bit as tough as boys and able to handle full
contact sports just as well, if not better. Also, with the proper equipment and coaching, girls could
find themselves to be fairly safe, accepting the usual injuries that occur in any sport.
Please consider my suggestion of creating a girl's football team for the city of Ediina. I
would greatly appreciate your assistance.
Sincerley,
U1 IV!
c n
14 �✓G' 1�L' � ��
Kristi Pooler
kl-fty 0iEdina
May 24, 1999
Kristi Pooler
7009 Tupa Drive
Edina, MN 55439
Dear Kristi:
Thank you for your letter regarding girl's football. Please know that you
may register for tackle football in the Edina Football Association program
up to and including the eighth grade. In grades nine and up, the Edina
School District offers a tackle football program.
If there is enough interest among girls your age to offer a girl's tackle
football program, there could be the potential to create a league. Girl's
hockey grew enough in popularity that a program was created. Is there
enough interest to create a segregated girl's tackle football program? If
there is enough interest, I would be happy to pursue the possibilities with
our youth football association.
If you have any questions, feel free to call me at 826-0430. Many thanks.
Sincerely,
John Keprios, Director
Edina Park and Recreation Department
City Hall (612) 927-8861
4801 WEST 50TH STREET FAX (612) 927-7645
EDINA, MINNESOTA 55424-1394 TDD (612) 927-5461
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
Direct # 612-826-0430
FAX # 612-826-0390
Fax
TO: Patrick J. McMulan
FAX: 612-292-2566
DATE: May 25, 1999
RE: Bart Larson recognition.
X For Review ❑ Please Reply
FROM: John Keprios,
PAGES: I pages, including this page.
Thank you for your FAX to Mayor Glenn Smith regarding recognition of
Coach Bart Larson.
Please know that I will be providing a copy of your FAX to every Edina Park
Board member. The Edina Park Board is an eleven member board of
volunteers who make recommendations to the Edina City Council on Park and
Recreation issues, including naming of parks, buildings and other park
amenities.
All Park Board meetings are open to the public. If you would like to be placed
on the agenda to address this specific topic, please contact me at 826-0430.
Many thanks.
M11%Y-19-99 WED 1:23 PM EH CUTIVE FAx FAx NO. 612 292 2566 P, 1
May 17, 1999
MAYOR GLENN L. SMITH
CITY OF EDINA
4801 WEST 50TH STREET
EDINA, MN 55424-1394
Dear Mayor Smith,
As a former hockey player, I recently attended the roast for Coach Bart Larson.
Many of us who were there were surprised and saddened to hear that the only
recognition that school gave him was a plaque. ( We were even more surprised that
the coaches and family had to put on the roast.) Anyway, we came up with an idea —
around Braemar Arena there is Ikola Way and John Harris Drive -- How about a
Larson Lane? Bart is, after all, the first coach to have achieved such longevity (35
years) for this community. Doesn't he deserve more recognition than a plaque?
There are a lot of us who hope in your busy schedule that you will take time to
consider this idea.
5117 Benton Ave.
Edina, MN 55436
April 28, 1999
City Manager Gorden Hughes
4801 West 50th St.
Edina, MN 55436
Dear Mr. Hughes
I am one of the many skateboarders in Edina, and I am 15 years old. I
fluently skateboard with my friends around 50th and France, as well as other
parts of the city. I have noticed that skateboarders cause quite a bit of
damage to the city, and that there is a solution to this problem. I would like
to propose that Edina builds a public skatepark at the Edina community
center. The public skatepark would either be cement or wood. A public
skatepark is a place both skateboarders and who ever else would like to go
there can go to skate. By building the public skatepark at the Edina
community center, the people of Edina would greatly benefit from it. We
would see more business evolving in Edina from tourists that would come to
visit the park. We would also see those blackened curbs, steps and ledges
turn to their natural color again. If we build the skatepark, the city of Edina
would boost itself up in both popularity and comfort. Please contact me with
any questions or comments, I would gladly answer them.
Thank you for putting this issue into deepest consideration.
Cordially yours
Mr. Eric W. Falk
Enclosure
0
y
City of Edina
May 14, 1999
Eric Falk
5117 Benton Ave.
Edina, MN 55436
Dear Eric:
Thank you for your letter regarding a skateboard park in Edina. Your request for a
skateboard park has been considered in the past, however, did not get funding support. If
funding were available, the issue could be revisited.
Your letter suggests that a skateboard park be built at the Edina Community Center. The
Community Center property is actually owned by the Edina School District. A joint
venture with the School District is always a possibility, however, a skate park would most
likely be placed somewhere in Edina's park system.
I will share your letter with all Edina Park Board members for their consideration.
Funding, location and liability are always the most challenging obstacles to overcome
when considering high risk activities in public parks. Personally, I support the idea of a
skate park somewhere in the park system. We will continue to work towards the goal of
providing more exciting recreational opportunities for Edina's youth population.
If you have any questions, feel free to call me at 826-0430. Many thanks.
Sincerely,
:o
John Keprio , girector
Edina Park and Recreation Department
cc: Gordon Hughes, City Manager
City Hall (612) 927-8861
4801 WEST 50TH STREET FAX (612) 927-7645
EDINA, MINNESOTA 55424-1394 TDD (612) 927-5461
I/
EDIMq
vusuc sceoo�s
5701
May 25, 1999
NORMANDALE
ROAD
•
John Keprios
EDINA
Director of Park & Recreation
MINNESOTA
City of Edina
55424
4801 W. 50" St.
Edina, MN. 55425
612/928-2500
Dear John,
FAX
612/928-2501 As we discussed, Jean Rydell has retired from the Park Board. This leaves her
space vacant on the Edina Community Education Services Board.
We would appreciate if you would find a replacement for Jean. Our next meeting
is Thursday, June 14 at 7:30 a.m. in the district office conference room located in
the Edina Community Center.
The CESB typically meets the second Thursday of every month (with the
exception of either July and/or August at 7:30 a.m.. The meetings conclude at
(9:00 a.m. or before).
If you have questions, please feel free to contact me.
Thanks for your help!
���unity Education Services
928-2612
Cc: Jean Rydell
WE CARE V WE DARE V WE SHARE
an equal opportunity employer
5908 Tamarac Lane
Edina, MN 55436
April 27, 1998
Mr. Gordon Hughes
4801 West 50th st.
Edina, MN 55424
Dear City Manager Gordon Hughes
I would like to thank.you for all of the nice parks you've given us in edina.
Especially at Walnut Park where we have just been given a new warming
house and a new playground. I know these new things we .got were not cheap
and I wanted to thank you for them.
I do have one favor to ask you. Just about all of the parks I know of in edina
have a hockey rink and some other kind of sports field. I was wondering if may
be we could get some more soccer fields. I know there is Pamela Park, the
EHS, Lewis Park and Bramear's one field. At Walnut Park though it is just a
plain old field that has nothing but a hockey rink. Now I know that a soccer field
is not free but it isn't expensive either. It would be very nice if you could get a
men's size soccer field at this park. The grass is good and there is plenty of
room. Pius its a pretty quite sport and wouldn't attract a lot of noise to the area.
I and others have been playing there for about 6 years and I am almost 16. 1
also know for a fact that house league teams practice their a lot too. 1 think
they deserve a field to play on or at least nets to shoot on. Not once have I ever
gone there and have taken a shot or been able to practice shooting because
there are no nets. I know you probably won't put a field there right away if ever,
but please take it into consideration.
Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. Hopefully we could get a soccer
field at Walnut Park. For there are some many baseball fields and hockey rinks,
but not to many soccer fields. If not a field though please write back and give
and give me an explanation for your answer.
Thank you for your assistance
Sincerely yours
-41
Alex Darbut
City of Edina.
May 14, 1999
Alex Darbut
5908 Tamarac Lane
Edina, MN 55436
Dear Alex:
Thank you for your letter concerning development of a soccer field at Walnut Ridge Park.
I'm glad to hear that you like all of the most recent park improvements throughout Edina,
especially the attractive new park shelter building at Walnut Ridge Park.
Please know that developing a soccer field at Walnut Ridge Park is in the long range
capital improvement plan and Comprehensive Plan. To develop a safe playable surface at
that site is estimated to cost approximately $850,000. The large open grassy area at
Walnut Ridge Park is actually in a flood plain that is designed to hold water during heavy
rains and slowly release the water into the creek. This helps keep the water levels from
flooding basements in nearby homes.
The soils in the park are very boggy and unstable, which causes the uneven surface
throughout the field. To make the field playable, it requires placing a stabilization fabric
under the surface, similar to the way the Golf Courses at Braemar and Richards are
designed. In addition, there is approximately three-four feet of undesirable fill (concrete
curbing and debris) in the park now that would need to be excavated, removed and
replaced with desirable clean fill.
The Edina Park Board is considering development of the site in the future when funding
becomes available. In the mean time, we will consider funding portable soccer goals for
the area.
If you have any questions, feel free to call (826-0430) or write to me. Many thanks.
ly,
Kepn
o , ector�
Edina Park and Recreation Department
cc: Gordon Hughes, City Manager
City Hall (612) 927-8861
4801 WEST 50TH STREET FAX (612) 826-0390
EDINA, MINNESOTA 55424-1394 TDD (612) 826-0379
EDINA PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
GOAL
It is the goal of the Edina Park and Recreation Department to do our part in further developing,
preserving, and maintaining the City of Edina's parks, recreation programs and resources as a
premier and comprehensive park and recreation department in the Twin Cities area.
INTRODUCTION
Park and Open Space Acreage
There are three different types of owners of present or potential parklands and open space areas
located of Edina:
1. City owned parklands and designated open space areas.
2. Public and quasi -public entities that own real estate in Edina, which is presently or
potentially available for, use as parkland or open space.
3. Individuals or organizations in the private sector that own real estate in the city of Edina,
which is presently available for use as parkland or open space.
In addition to undeveloped land owned by the private sector, there are other parcels owned by
public, quasi -public or private entities which, while not falling in the traditional definition of
"open space" or "parkland", are nevertheless "green space" areas devoted to recreational
activities or left in a state of open space. Examples of these parcels would be:
• Edina Country Club
• Interlachen Country Club
• Church owned properties
• Edina School District properties
• The meadows in White Oaks neighborhood
• Power line easements
• Other miscellaneous vacant space
It is important to keep all these present and potential parklands and open space areas under
consideration in planning future city -owned parkland and open space acreage.
OBJECTIVE
It is the goal of the City of Edina to meet or exceed the National Recreation and Park
Association's suggested park and open space acreage standards as per population.
Page 2
Park and Recreation Plan
OPEN SPACE ACREAGE
Definition of open space: open space is characterized by a variety of land types including the
environmentally sensitive areas of the floodplains, lands riparian to water courses, wetlands,
steep slopes and storm water holding areas. These open space areas are predominantly left in
their natural states; however, they can offer such passive uses as wildlife reserves, casual
walking, bicycling, and simple enjoyment of the outdoors.
CURRENT INVENTORY
All open space areas were inventoried and categorized as follows:
(Quadrants were determined by the two dividing highways in Edina: Highway 62 and Highway
100).
MAP CODE
NORTHWEST QUADRANT
ACREAGE
A
Nine Mile Creek Right of Way
148.15
A
Lincoln Drive Floodplain
17.16
H
Division Street Storm Water Drainage
18.14
D
Moore Property (Melody Lake)
4.96
E
Normandale Rd. (NW Benton & Hwy 100)
2.14
B
Garden Park Addition
6.70
F
Glenbrae & Ayrshire
4.30
C
Krahl Hill
7.75
G
Pine Grove Rd. (S and E of dead-end)
4.39
NORTHEAST QUADRANT
I
Littel & Lynn Avenue
.46
J
W. 41St Street and Lynn Avenue
3.10
K
Minnehaha Creek Right of Way
22.88
L
Townes Road
1.00
SOUTHWEST QUADRANT
M
Nine Mile Creek Right of Way
9.75
N
Cahill School Backlot
11.05
O
NE of High School & S of Crosstown
37.29
P
Dewey Hill Ponds
48.00
Q
Limerick Dr. (dead end W of RR)
3.90
SOUTHEAST QUADRANT
R
Bristol & Mavelle
1.01
TOTAL OPEN SPACE ACRES
352.13
Page 3
Park and Recreation Plan
Map
Code
4
7
8
14
17
19
20
21
24
39
26
36
Map
Code
1
2
10
11
15
22
25
29
35
37
The following are individual park acreage totals:
MINI PARK 12 PARKS - 24.99 ACRES
A Mini park is characterized by a size of approximately 2 acres or less and is designed to serve
primarily the needs of pre-school age children, although it may provide facilities designed to
serve the recreation needs of other age groups. Service Area - 1/4 Square Mile.
Park
Address
Size
Quadrant
Birchcrest
6016 Hansen Rd.
1.61 Acres
NW
Browndale
4510 Browndale Ave.
.82 Acre
NE
Chowen
5700 Chowen Ave.
.93 Acre
NE
Kojetin
4201 W. 44' Street
2.69 Acres
NE
Heights
5520 W. 66"' Street
4.00 Acres
SW
Lake Edina
4400 Parklawn Ave.
3.10 Acres
SE
McGuire
W. 69"' & McGuire Rd.
2.00 Acres
SW
Melody Lake
5501 Melody Lake Dr.
4.18 Acres
NW
Sherwood
Sherwood Rd. & Edenmoor
2.00 Acres
NW
St. Johns
W. 60' & St. Johns Ave.
.94 Acre
NE
Tingdale
W. 59h& Tingdale Ave.
.67 Acre
NW
York Park
5448 York Ave.
2.05 Acres
NE
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK 10 PARKS - 74.88 ACRES
Neighborhood parks are designed to serve primarily the needs of children six to fourteen years of
age. Tennis courts, softball diamonds, basketball and ice skating facilities are commonly
provided in neighborhood parks. Neighborhood parks range in size from approximately two
acres to twenty acres. Service Area - 1 Square Mile.
Park
Address
Alden
6750 Belmore Lane
Arden
5230 Minnehaha Blvd.
Cornelia Sch.
7124 Cornelia Drive
Countryside
6240 Tracy Ave.
Fox Meadow
Blake Rd. & Fox Meadow Ln.
Normandale
6501 Warren Ave.
Strachauer
6200 Beard Ave.
Utley
50'h & Wooddale Ave.
Wooddale
W. 50d& Wooddale Ave.
Yorktown
W. 73`d & York Ave.
Size
Quadrant
5.12 Acres
NW
17.75 Acres
NE
10.75 Acres
SE
9.01 Acres
NW
3.84 Acres
NW
10.06 Acres
SW
4.50 Acres
NE
5.73 Acres
NE
4.70 Acres
NE
3.42 Acres
SE
Page 4
b�LMT`� 0
Park and Recreation Plan
COMMUNITY PLAYFIELDS 9 PARKS - 287.65
Map
Code
5
40
9
13
Map
Code
3
6
41
28
COMMUNITY PARKS 4 PARKS - 549.05 ACRES
The community park is usually a large park of more than 100 acres, or a smaller park containing
special community facilities.
Park
Community playfields typically range in size from approximately 20 to 60 acres. These parks
Size
are designed to provide facilities for diverse recreational activities for
young people and adults,
SW Corner of Edina
although a section is also typically set aside for
smaller neighborhood
children. Service area - 9-
7495 France Avenue
16 square miles.
SE
Kenneth Rosland
Map
22.05 Acres
SE
Edinborough
Code
Park Address
Size
Quadrant
12
Creek Valley W. 64h& Gleason Road
10.00 Acres
NW
16
Garden 5520 Hansen Road
18.74 Acres
NW
18
Highlands 5200 Doncaster Way
44.05 Acres
NW
33
Lewis Dewey Hill & Cahill Road
21.04 Acres
SW
23
Pamela 5900 Park Place
62.00 Acres
NE
27
Todd 4429 Vandervork Ave.
33.97 Acres
NW
30
Van Valkenburg 4935 Lincoln Drive
41.76 Acres
NW
31
Walnut Ridge 5801 Londonderry Road
44.24 Acres
NW
32
Weber 4115 Grimes Ave.
11.85 Acres
NE
Map
Code
5
40
9
13
Map
Code
3
6
41
28
COMMUNITY PARKS 4 PARKS - 549.05 ACRES
The community park is usually a large park of more than 100 acres, or a smaller park containing
special community facilities.
Park
Address
Size
Quadrant
Braemar
SW Corner of Edina
500.00 Acres
SW
Centennial Lakes
7495 France Avenue
25.00 Acres
SE
Kenneth Rosland
4300 West 66`h Street
22.05 Acres
SE
Edinborough
7700 York Avenue South
2.00 Acres
SE
SPECIAL PURPOSE PARKS 7 PARKS - 271.96 ACRES
The special purpose park provides a single or specific form of recreation. Service Area City
Wide.
Park
Arneson Acres
Bredesen
Richards Golf Course
Southdale Gateway
Tupa
Address
4711 West 70'h street
Vernon Ave. & Olinger Blvd.
7640 Parklawn Ave.
SE Corner of Edina
4918 Eden Avenue
Size
Quadrant
15.00 Acres
SE
206.00 Acres
NW
39.65 Acres
SE
9.97 Acres
SE
1.00 Acre
NE
Park and Recreation Plan
34 Williams West 50'h & Browndale .34 Acre NE
38 Senior Citizen Center 5701 Normandale Road 5,000 Sq.Ft. NE
INVENTORY SUMMARY
OPEN SPACE (19 areas)
MINI PARKS (12)
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS (10)
COMMUNITY PLAYFIELDS (10)
COMMUNITY PARKS (4)
SPECIAL PURPOSE PARKS (7)
TOTAL OPEN SPACE & PARKLANDS
ITHER MAINTAINED GRASS AREAS
.'LAZAS, TRIANGLES AND CIRCLES
OPEN SPACE & PARKLANDS
TOTAL PARKS, OPEN SPACE & OTHER
PARKLAND ACREAGE
The following are parkland acreage totals per park classification:
COMPONENT CHARACTER SVC AREA
Mini -Park
Neighborhood Park
Community
Playfield
Community
Park
Less than 1 acre
Serve children
ages 6-14
Serve recreational
needs of young
people and adults
Large park in
excess 100 acres.
Serving pre-school
-adult active and
passive recreational
pursuits
1/4 sq.mi.
1 sq.mi.
9-16 sq.mi
4-16 sq.mi
ACRES
352.13
24.99
74.88
287.65
549.05
271.96
1,560.66
5.00
1,560.66
1,565.66
#OF
TOTAL
PARKS
ACREAGE
12
24.99
10
74.88
9 287.65
4 549.05
Page 5
o e
N► 0
Park and Recreation Plan
Special Purpose Provides a special
Park form of recreation
Total Parkland Acreage
City Wide 7 271.96
40 1,208.53
VOLUNTEER CITIZEN BOARDS/ASSOCIATIONS
Page 6
The Edina volunteer citizen boards and associations play an important role in the delivery of a
comprehensive recreation program. The countless hours of volunteer service have a significant
financial impact on the city of Edina's quest to provide premier services while minimizing the
burden on the Edina taxpayer. These boards and associations also contribute to Edina resident's
quality of life and promote a sense of community within the city. Edina's volunteers are one of
Edina's most valuable resources.
The Edina Park and Recreation Department carries out the philosophy of the Edina Park board
and City Council in working with the Volunteer Citizen Boards/Associations. In order to
maintain quality programming, the following policies are followed:
The Edina Park Board and Edina Park and Recreation Department recognize the
individual citizen boards/associations in the city of Edina as the only governing body
for each respective activity.
The Edina Park and Recreation Department will assist and facilitate volunteer boards
and associations and provide support services to their operation of their group so as to
maintain continuity. The Edina Park and Recreation Department will work closely
with each board and association to ensure that their mission and operations are in
keeping with the basic philosophies and policies of the Edina Park Board and City
Council.
• The Edina Park and Recreation Department acts as a liaison between the citizen
boards/associations and the Edina Park Board to ensure that the boards are providing
a well-rounded and equal program for the community and all citizens.
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
The Historical Society is an independently incorporated board that implements programs and
seminars that portrays the community's history. The Historical Society serves as the custodian
for the history of Edina and the guardian of the artifacts of the city. The Historical Society's
Board of Directors and their members have a close working relationship with the Edina Park and
Recreation Department. The Historical Society in cooperation with the Park and Recreation
Page 7
Park and Recreation Plan
Department serves as the managers of the Edina museum at Arneson Acres and operation of the
Cahill School and Grange Hall at Tupa Park. The Edina Park and Recreation Department
provides assistance in planning and scheduling as well as ensuring availability of facilities for the
Edina Historical Society.
GARDEN COUNCIL
The Edina Garden Council is an independently incorporated board that implements programs and
seminars for the community in gardening. The Edina Garden Council Board of Directors is
made up of members of the Edina Garden Clubs and serves as a guardian of the greenhouse and
formal garden of Arneson Acres as well as gardens throughout the park system. The Garden
Council works very close with the Park and Recreation Department with the growing of plant
materials in the greenhouse and planting of gardens throughout the park system. The Edina Park
and Recreation Department provides assistance in planning and scheduling as well as ensuring
availability of facilities for the Garden Council.
EDINA ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON DISABILITIES AND ADAPTIVE
RECREATION/LEARNING EXCHANGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Adaptive programs provide recreational and educational opportunities for individuals who
happen to be physically disabled, hearing impaired, learning disabled, autistic, mentally
handicapped or chronically mentally ill. The Adaptive Recreation programs, sponsored by the
Edina Park and Recreation Department, provide leisure and recreational opportunities for both
children and adults. The Edina School District sponsors the Learning Exchange, a Community
Education program serving adults with disabilities. Both programs are part of a larger
cooperative effort serving the communities of Bloomington, Richfield, Edina, and Eden Prairie.
EDINA ADVISORY COMMITTEE
1. To advise, consult with or make recommendations to the ARLE (Adaptive
Recreation/Learning Exchange) Supervisors in matters relating to the development,
implementation and evaluation of social/recreational, education programs, and related
services designed for individuals with disabilities for the City of Edina.
2. To provide input to the ARLE Representative(s) from Edina serving on the Four City ARLE
Advisory board.
ARLE (ADAPTIVE RECREATION LEARNING EXCHANGE) ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
To advise, consult with or make recommendations to the ARLE supervisors on matters relating
to the development, maintenance and evaluation of social/recreational, educational programs and
Page 8
Park and Recreation Plan
related services designed for individuals with disabilities for the communities of Edina,
Bloomington, Richfield and Eden Prairie.
Membership consists of 6 consumers or parents, 3 individuals from agencies who represent
persons with disabilities, 3 professionals and 3 school personnel.
EDINA ATHLETIC ASSOCIATIONS
There are currently thirteen (13) Edina youth athletic associations. These are independently
incorporated youth athletic associations that plan and implement youth sports programs for their
particular sport. The formal relationship between these youth athletic associations and the Park
Board and Edina Park and Recreation Department is best described as follows.
The Edina Park Board and the Edina Park and Recreation Department recognize the individual
• athletic associations in the City of Edina as the only governing body for each respective sport.
With regards to services and access to facilities, first priority will be given to those recognized
youth athletic associations. It is the philosophy of the Edina Park Board that the Edina Park and
Recreation Department assist each youth athletic association where needed by:
• Providing clerical support services (limited typing, mailing and photocopying, assist with
day -time registration, facility reservations, filing, referrals, and other miscellaneous clerical
duties).
• Providing game and practice scheduling services.
• Providing City maintained athletic facilities.
• Providing meeting rooms for board meetings, coaches clinics, etc.
• Securing and scheduling Edina School District owned athletic facilities.
• Ensuring that each youth athletic association administers their program in a manner that is
keeping with the philosophy of the Edina Park Board.
The Edina Park and Recreation Department acts as a liaison between the youth athletic
associations and the Edina Park Board to ensure that the associations are providing a well
rounded and equal program for all participants.
It is the philosophy of the Edina Park Board that youth athletic associations abide by the
following guidelines.
1. That all boys and girls receive an equal opportunity to participate in any activity at whatever
ability level they may play. (Equal playing time at every level is not mandatory, however, is
encouraged.)
2. Have fun.
Page 9
Park and Recreation Plan
3. Build good sportsmanship and character.
4. Learn basic fundamentals of the sport they participate in.
5. Be a good team member.
6. Learn to accept discipline.
7. Have a reasonable amount of practice and games.
8. The Edina Park Board and Edina Park and Recreation Department encourage the use of
volunteers on the Board of Directors, as well as in the coaching, because we believe in the
philosophy of citizen involvement.
9. Selection of members to serve on the Board of Directors and/or as coaches should be based
on the prospective member having the understanding of the basic program for the ability
level(s) for which they are serving.
The continued devotion and support from dedicated volunteers who serve on athletic
associations have a direct impact on the quality of service provided in youth athletics in Edina.
Judging from past experience, each youth athletic association will likely continue to provide a
high standard and quality athletic program well into the future.
It is difficult to project trends that affect recreation program planning. However, the Park and
Recreation staff need to be aware of and responsive to future trends. Some current trends that
affect recreation programming and are likely to continue include:
• aging population
• physical fitness/wellness/nutrition
• drug and alcohol abuse
• increase emphasis for integrated program opportunities for disabled populations
• more state and national sports events in Minnesota
• video games and electronics era
• home exercise program promotions
• over -programmed youth (less free play time in non -organized activities)
• inter -community programming (networking)
• increased demand for gym space
• starting recreation programs for earlier ages (pre-school)
• single parent families/working families
• increased use of day-care/latch key programs
• competition from the private sector recreation opportunity offerings
Some of the above trends will become an even greater challenge in programming recreational
activities in the future.
Page 10
Park and Recreation Plan
SUMMARY OF ASSUMPTIONS
To summarize, the six major areas of assumptions are:
1. Edina Park Board Mission Statement
2. Edina Art Center Board Mission Statement
3. Edina Park and Recreation Department Mission Statement
4. Population and Demographics Projections
5. Volunteer Citizen Boards/Associations
6. Trends
All of the above six areas affect planning of Park and Open Space Acreage, Park Development,
and Recreation Programming recommendations. The above assumptions, along with later
mentioned current inventories, make-up the formula to establish a plan with each category.
The following report consists of recommended goals, objectives and policies, within each
category, that are based on all the above mentioned assumptions with the omission of one
important additional assumption, availability of funding. Although most recreation programs
and enterprise facilities are self-sufficient, the funding for the proposed park development plans
will be addressed at the conclusion of this report.
FACTORS OF INFLUENCE
The National Park and Recreation Association periodically publishes "Park and Open Space
Standards and Guidelines" for municipal park and recreation agencies to assist in comprehensive
planning. The N.R.P.A. suggests that the "national standards" be used only as a benchmark
guideline because each community has its own unique profile in regards to demographics, total
acreage, terrain, climate and a host of other affecting factors. Nonetheless, Edina currently
exceeds the national standard guideline for acres per 1,000 residents.
The N.R.P.A. suggests a national standards guideline of 25 acres per 1,000 residents. This
standard would include all local, county, and state owned property within the community. Edina
has no county, state or federal parklands. The City's 1,565.66 total park and open space acreage
computes to 34.02 acres per 1,000 residents (based on a current population projection of 46,000).
The N.R.P.A. also suggests that each community should devote 10% of the total area of a city to
park and open space. Edina has a total of 10,240 acres of which 1,565.66 acres are park and
open space. Thus, 15.3% of Edina's land area is currently devoted to park and open apace.
The Platting Ordinance
Page 11
Park and Recreation Plan
Edina Ordinance No. 810, "The Platting Ordinance", states that in every plat, replat, or
subdivision of land to be developed for residential, commercial, industrial, or other uses, a
reasonable portion of such land shall be set aside and dedicated by the tract owner to the general
public as open space for parks, playgrounds, public open space, or storm water holding area or
ponds, or, at the option of the City, the tract owner shall contribute to the City an amount of cash
in lieu of such a land dedication.
A flexible set of guidelines were adopted by the Edina City Council on July 10, 1978, to assist in
the determination of "Requirement of land or cash in lieu of land". Some of these guidelines are
as follows:
A land dedication and public access to such a dedication may be required when:
• Property is adjacent to an existing park or public open space and the
addition beneficially expands the park or public open space.
• Property available for dedication is at least 6 acres in area or will be
combined with future dedications so that the end result will a
minimum of a 6 acre park.
• Property abuts a natural lake, pond, or stream.
• Property is a natural storm water holding area, a flood plain, or is
needed for storm water holding and cam be dredged or otherwise
improved for that purpose.
Cash will be required in all other instances than above unless facts and
circumstances direct a combination public dedication of land and cash in lieu of
land.
Park and Recreation Plan
Page 12
PARKLAND AND OPEN SPACE
OBJECTIVE
Continue to devote a minimum of 15% of Edina's land area to parkland and open
space in the future.
POLICIES
• The City of Edina will not sell or donate ownership of any park or
open space acreage.
The City of Edina will consider purchase of additional potential park
and/or open space acreage if and when future opportunities arise,
however, each opportunity will be judged on its individual merit and
value to the total Edina Park Systems. Special consideration will be
given to parcels which are currently owned by a public or quasi -public
entity other than the City of Edina, or privately owned, and currently
serve in a open space or parkland capacity.
• When considering land dedication or cash in lieu of land in the future,
the City of Edina will strongly consider "the Platting Ordinance
Guidelines", which applies to Edina Ordinance No. 810.
The City of Edina will purchase additional parkland and/or open space acreage as
necessary to continually meet or exceed updated national standards for parkland
and open space acreage as per population.
PARK DEVELOPMENT
OBJECTIVE
Provide and maximize accessibility to premier active and passive recreation
facilities within the park and open space system which respond to the diverse need
of the population.
POLICIES
• Design an long-range master plan for the Edina Aquatic Center and Kenneth
Rosland Park.
• Complete the construction of a walking path around the perimeter of Braemar
Golf Course.
• Study the feasibility to construct a municipally owned Senior Citizen's
Center.
Park and Recreation Plan
Page 13
• Cooperate with the Edina Public Schools to study the feasibility of designing
and constructing more gymnasiums to primarily meet after-school gymnasium
demands.
• Cooperate with the Edina Public Schools to study the feasibility of
constructing a 50 meter competition pool adjunct to an existing school facility.
• Design and construct fire protection systems for Braemar West Arena, the
historic Grange Hall and historic Cahill School buildings.
• Install a keyless entry system to all park buildings that are available for public
use or are in need of a security system.
• With neighborhood input, establish master plans for future park development
for:
■ Van Valkenburg Park
■ Fox Meadow Park
■ Arden Park
■ Walnut Ridge Park
• Construct three batting cages at Van Valkenburg Park.
• Create pathways around the perimeters of Pamela Park, Weber Park and
Highlands Park.
• Construct outdoor picnic shelters at Braemar Park, Pamela Park and Van
Valkenburg Park.
• Design and install park identification signs and various park regulation and
warning signs where needed.
• Design and construct a safe archery range site.
PARK MAINTENANCE
OBJECTIVE
It is the goal of the City of Edina to maintain all Edina's park lands and facilities
at a premier standard.
POLICIES
• Replace the heater for the main pool at the Edina Aquatic Center.
• Replace the concessions building at Courtney Fields, Braemar Park.
• Replace fencing and dugouts on field #4 at Courtney Fields, Braemar Park.
• Re -grade, irrigate and sod field #4 at Courtney Fields, Braemar Park.
• Construct concrete aprons around all park shelter buildings.
• Design and install underground irrigation at the following sites:
Park and Recreation Plan
Page 14
1. Countryside Park west baseball field.
2. Highlands Park soccer and softball field.
3. Rosland Park baseball field.
4. Todd Park softball field.
5. Tupa Park grounds.
6. Weber Park baseball field and softball field.
7. Wooddale Park softball field.
• Upgrade all tot lot baseball fields (grading, sodding and bases).
• Re -grade and sod Countryside Park west baseball field, Cornelia School Park
softball and baseball fields and Weber Park baseball field.
• Make pathway improvements (grading, asphalt, bridge and signs) at Rosland
Park.
• Replace maintenance garage at Courtney Fields, Braemar Park.
• Replace all perimeter fencing around Bredesen Park.
• Reinstate the full-time Park Maintenance worker not replaced since 1990 to
ensure premier maintenance standards in all park restroom facilities, as well as
quality outdoor skating ice.
RECREATION PROGRAMMING
OBJECTIVE
It is the objective of the City of Edina to provide premier and comprehensive
recreation and athletic programs that meet or exceed leisure activity needs and
desires of Edina residents of all ages and abilities.
CURRENTINVENTORY
The City of Edina offers a wide range of recreation programs for youth, adult and
senior citizen participants. These programs include both active and passive
activities and covers all aspects of leisure activity programs, such as:
• Recreational
• Athletic
• Performing and Visual Arts
• Special Events
• Adaptive Recreation (integrated and segregated)
The following is a current inventory of recreation programs by four categories:
Park and Recreation Plan
YOUTH
Arts and Crafts
Volleyball
Bandy
Firearm Safety
Baseball
Football
Softball
Golf Instruction
Basketball
Gymnastics
Puppet Shows
Swim Instruction
Flag Football
Skating Instruction
Hockey
Coach Pitch
Soccer
Tennis Instruction
Tennis Tournaments
Playgrounds
Adaptive Recreation Programs: Integrated and Segregated
ADULT
Swimming Pool
Ice Arena
Recreational Skating
Gun Range
Grange Hall
Cahill School
Bocci Ball Courts
Wrestling
Team Tennis
Arts and Crafts
Firearm Safety
Tennis Instruction
Touch Football
Golf Instruction
Tennis Tournaments
Softball
Swim Instruction
Gun Range
Basketball
Ice Arena Skating
Performing Arts (Theater)
Volleyball
Recreational Skating
Swimming Pool
Bocci Ball Courts
Skating Instruction
Historical Society
Cross Country Skiing Adaptive Recreation Programs: Integrated and Segregated
SENIOR CITIZENS (in addition to adult programs)
Pool Tournaments Edina Singin Swingin Seniors
Clubs/Tournaments
Swimnastics Open Pool Play Performing Arts
Bowling Watercolor Lessons Softball
Edina Senior Citizens Club Trips and Tours
Walking Group Crafts
Golf (in cooperation with Richfield and Bloomington)
SPECIAL ANNUAL EVENTS/PROGRAMS
Figure Skating Show July 4' Celebration - Parade and Fireworks
Family Jamboree Santa House (Edina Federated Women's Club)
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Card
e
lees
Park and Recreation Plan
Page 16
Winter Ice Festival Safety Camp
Adopt -A -Park John Philip Sousa Memorial Band
FACTORS OF INFLUENCE ON RECREATION PROGRAMMING
INTRODUCTION
Although there are no national standards with regard to a community's recreation
programming, there is currently a well-balanced comprehensive offering of
recreation programming for all ages. Although there is a strong emphasis on
youth and adult athletics, there are numerous offerings in cultural programming,
the visual arts and basic recreation programs and special events for all ages.
NETWORKING
There are other organizations, both public, quasi -public and private, within Edina
and in neighboring communities that also provide recreation program
opportunities, such as:
• Edina Community Services/Edina School District.
• Edina based churches.
• Private Golf Clubs.
• Movie theaters.
• Private health clubs.
• YMCA.
The City of Edina recognizes the existence of other recreation opportunities and
the importance of analyzing the options of competing and/or networking with
these organizations. The main issues involved in networking vs. competing are:
1. Duplication of services.
2. Justifiable demand.
3. Quality of service based on availability of facilities and resources.
For example, the City of Edina found it to be more feasible to enter into a four -
city Joint Powers Agreement cooperative with Bloomington, Eden Prairie and
Richfield to cooperatively offer adaptive recreation services.
In recent years, youth athletic associations have found it feasible to join various
levels of play with neighboring communities to enhance those programs with
limited numbers of participants.
Overall, networking has been and will continue to be an effective and efficient
method of providing quality recreation programs.
D
Park and Recreation Plan
Page 17
FACILITIES
The availability of recreation facilities greatly influence the planning of future
recreation programs. A program cannot take place until the needed facility is
provided. For example, the youth and adult basketball and volleyball programs
cannot expand until more indoor gym space is provided. The recent addition of a
third indoor ice arena has helped meet the increased demand for indoor ice,
mainly due to the increased popularity of girls hockey.
The individual mission statements for each facility are as follows:
EDINA ART CENTER
The mission of the Edina Art Center is to provide facilities, program and services
that meet and reflect the needs of its residents and neighbors for participation,
education and enjoyment in the visual arts with emphasis on fine arts.
BRAEMAR AND FRED RICHARDS GOLF COURSES
The missions of the Braemar and Fred Richards Golf Courses are to be a premier
public golf facilities; and to make golfing accessible and affordable to primarily,
but not exclusively, Edina residents and yet remain competitively priced with the
Twin Cities area.
EDINA SENIOR CENTER
The mission statement of the Edina Senior Center is to provide needed services to
all Edina residents 55 years and older, with major emphasis on recreational,
health, social service and educational programs. Inclusive in this mission
statement and the following major areas: special events, information and referral,
dining, health, volunteerism and transportation.
EDINA AQUATIC CENTER
The mission of the Edina Aquatic Center is to be a premier public aquatic facility
and to make swimming accessible and affordable to primarily, but not
exclusively, Edina residents and yet remain competitively priced within the Twin
Cities area.
EDINBOROUGH AND CENTENNIAL LAKES PARK
The mission of Edinborough and Centennial Lakes Park is to be a premier cultural
and recreational oriented facility; and to make:
• diversified art forms for participants, performers, and observers.
• organized athletics (gym, pool and ice surface sports).
Page 18
Park and Recreation Plan
• recreationally oriented health enhancement activities (such as track, open pool
swim, open gym, weight lifting, open skating activities).
accessible and affordable to primarily, but not exclusively, Edina residents and yet
remain competitively priced within the Twin Cities area.
BRAEMAR ARENA
The mission of the Braemar Arena is to be a premier public ice facility and to
make skating accessible and affordable to primarily, but not exclusively, Edina
residents and yet remain competitively priced within the Twin Cities area.
OBJECTIVES
• Continue to provide visual and performing arts program opportunities for all
ages and abilities.
• Continue the positive and successful working relationship with Edina athletic
associations to ensure quality sports programs.
• Offer more recreation and athletic opportunities to Edina residents, ages 35-
65, to a level that meets their increased demands in the future.
• continue to provide quality integrated and segregated recreation program
opportunities for Edina's disabled population of all ages.
POLICIES
• The City of Edina will continue to provide facility program specialists to offer
recreation programs similar to the current level and diversity of offerings, and
be responsive to future trends and changing demands.
• The City of Edina will continue to work with, provide services for and support
youth athletic associations.
• The City of Edina will offer active and passive recreation opportunities for
Edina residents of all ages to a level that meets or exceeds the demand and
their expectations.
• Continue the mutually beneficial relationship involving joint use of facilities
with the Edina School District.
• The City of Edina will continue to provide a professionally trained therapeutic
recreation specialist to program activities for Edina's special needs population,
and ensure adequate training of paid and volunteer staff in integrated and
segregated settings.
• The City of Edina will continue to provide facilities and professional
assistance to program visual and performing arts.
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Park and Recreation Plan
FINANCING
For the Edina Park and Recreation Department to maintain its parks and open space at a premier level, as well
as, continue to meet or exceed recreation program needs and desires, the City of Edina should consider all
available sources of funding, some of which include:
1. Commercial and residential property taxes.
2. Community Development Block Grants (where applicable to park projects and programs).
3. Capital plan appropriations.
4. General obligation bonds (voter -approved bonds).
5. Revenue bonds (bonds backed by enterprise facility generated income, rental income, or capital
appropriations).
6. Donations, gifts or bequests.
7. Fees and charges.
S. Developers Funds.
. Tax increment financing.
10. Other government grants.
11. Excess revenues from enterprise facilities.
Priorities with regards to financing are to:
1. Ensure premier condition of existing park facilities before considering expanding park facilities.
2. Finance park facility development with a minimum financial burden on Edina taxpayers.
3. Continue user -fee philosophy (today's user -fee finances today's facilities and programs).
4. Continue to maintain fees and charges at a competitive level.
5. Continue to explore alternative grant-in-aid subsidies for Edina residents who cannot otherwise participate
in recreation programs due to financial hardship.
6. Use up-to-date technology in building materials and equipment in future park developments to ensure
minimum operation and maintenance costs.
A fiscally sound and responsible approach is essential in planning and implementing park developments and
recreation programs. The City of Edina will continue to minimize the burden on Edina taxpayers in all of its
planning, maintaining, and operational park developments and recreation programs.
Due to State mandated levy limits, funding sources for capital expenditures for park improvements have become
significantly limited. Short and long-term funding for capital improvements is a significant financial challenge
facing the Edina Park and Recreation Department. Capital funding is critical to maintaining premier park
4cilities, which are essential in providing premiere recreation programs and non -programmed leisure activities,
such as, walking, bicycling, picnics, bird watching, and fishing.
EDINA PARK BOARD
7:30 p.m.
May 9, 1995
MEMBERS PRESENT: Andrew Herring, Andrew Montgomery, Beth Hall, Jim Fee, Becky
Bennett, Dave Crowther, Jean Rydell, Bill Jenkins, John
Dovolis, Frank Bennett, Mike Burley
STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Ed MacHolda, Janet Canton, Laura Lancrete,
Vince Cockriel, Susan Weigle
OTHERS PRESENT: Laura Odegaard, Mary Kuppe, Sue Patrick Seary, Jane Berkey,
John Landin, Dennis Withers, Virg Dissmeyer, Clyde Blinn,
Marion Kloster, Doris Clegg, Del Bruss, Lorraine Johnson,
Clarence Guldberg, Tom McCanna, Bob Carlson, Nancy Tracy,
Jim Tracy, Louis Starita, Jeff Albrecht, Florence Liemandt,
Marion Sorem, Frank Jones, Jerry Witowski, Jim Gray, Julie
Turnbull, Julie Cologne, Mary Finnegan, Mark Anderson,
Michele Simonet, Alice Hulbert, Jim Callanan, Jim Stangl,
Dick Friedrichs, David Davison, Andy Turnbull, Patti Kelly,
Gary Dalasta, Shannon Hierlmaier, John Hopko
at I. APPROVAL OF THE APRIL 11, 1995 MINUTES
Jean Rydell MOVED TO APPROVE THE APRIL 11, 1995 MINUTES. John Dovolis
SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED.
II. SR. CITIZEN CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
Ms. Weigle explained to the Park Board that the Senior Center has been
located on the third floor of the Community Center since 1989 and one of
the biggest concerns is that the lease will be up in the year 2000. She
stated that doesn't necessarily mean that the Community Center doesn't
want them, it's just that the senior don't want to be scrambling around
at the last minute to find a replacement senior center. Mr. Herring
noted that he thought the Community Center has offered to extend the
lease an additional 5 years. Ms. Weigle noted that she has not heard
that. Mr. Herring indicated that he and Ms. Rydell are on the Community
Education Services Board and have been talking about planning and
continuing to have the Senior Center at the Community Center. He noted
that he feels this is not issue, and that the real issue is whether or
not the seniors want to continue to use that facility. Ms. Weigle noted
that was the next point she was going to make.
Ms. Weigle stated that they really wanted to know what the seniors
feelings were about being at the Community Center and so they sent out a
survey which had about a 39% return on it. She indicated that Laura
Schenk, her new assistant, has been tabulating the results. She noted
that most people who answered the survey were between the ages of 71 and
80, however, surveys have also been received from seniors between the
ages of 61 and 70. Ms. Weigle explained that those who live close by
are quite happy with the location and that the majority of complaints
were the third floor location, parking, and transportation to and from
the center. Ms. Weigle pointed out that the senior bus does not bring
people to the Senior Center and there is no public transportation that
goes to the Senior Center.
Ms. Weigle indicated that Ms. Schenk has also put all of the members
into the computer system. She noted that there were approximately 150
people that had not remained active members who were still receiving a
newsletter and being counted as active. Currently the membership is
approximately 1,400.
Ms. Weigle stated that the Advisory Council has indicated that they
would like to have someone from the baby boomer age sit on the Advisory
Council. The reason for this is they are trying to think of what the
baby boomers are going to want for their future because eventually they
will either need to enhance the current facility or else move to a
different location.
Mr. Fee indicated that he thought there was some kind of transportation
that went from the senior buildings on York to the Senior Center. Ms.
Weigle indicated that it doesn't bring them to the Senior Center, it
brings them to Congregate Dining, which is at 7151 York. She noted that
Congregate Dining averages 99 people a day compared to 25 to 30 when it
was at the Community Center. Ms. Weigle explained that there is also
transportation to the grocery store and that volunteer drivers are used
and therefore the bus only goes to the grocery store 2 days a week. Ms.
Weigle indicated that the bus can take 10 people at a time. Mr. Jenkins
asked if that service is well used and Ms. Weigle indicated that yes it
is. Ms. Weigle noted that both Mr. Rosland and Mr. Keprios have asked
her to do a study on transportation because eventually they are going to
have to do something. Mr. Fee asked Ms. Weigle what she would want to
see in the way of transportation and she noted that she thinks there is
going to need to be paid drivers. It's been nearly impossible to get
volunteer bus drivers on a regular basis.
Mr. Jenkins asked how the facility is working after the remodeling that
was done a few years back. Ms. Weigle noted that the Community Center
has been very accommodating and they have a nice working relationship.
Mr. Keprios indicated that it's also worth mentioning that Ms. Weigle
does a wonderful job programming a lot of activities outside the Senior
Center. Ms. Weigle stated that there is a 55 plus softball league that
plays at Van Valkenburg and they have over 100 men a year that play.
Also, there is a line dance held four times a year at Edinborough as
well as a birthday celebration four times a year. Ms. Weigle indicated
that they play volleyball at Edinborough during the winter and noted
that a lot of the seniors participate in Laura Lancrete's swimming
program at Edinborough.
Mr. Jenkins asked Ms. Weigle what she feels her biggest challenge is and
she indicated getting people to the Senior Center who just simply can't
get there.
2
Mr. Fee asked Ms. Weigle if she feels she has the funds to pay for this
service and she indicated she does not. Mr. Fee noted that he would
like to work with Mr. Rosland on the transportation issue and see what
other possible alternatives might be out there. It was noted that all
other communities charge a discount fee for a transportation service and
that no one is doing it for free.
III. EDINA SOCCER ASSOCIATION PROPOSAL FOR LEWIS PARK
Mr. Keprios thanked everyone for coming to the Park Board meeting and
thanked everyone who responded with phone calls, letters and petitions.
He indicated that everything that was sent to him he copied and passed
along to the Park Board.
Mr. Keprios indicated that he would like to briefly go over the proposal
to bring everyone up to speed and explain what happened at last month's
Park Board meeting. He stated that at the April Park Board meeting the
Edina Soccer Association and those interested in bandy gave their views
on the proposal that the Edina Soccer Association presented to the Park
Board. He indicated that since that meeting they have sent out notices
to everyone who lives within approximately 500 feet of the park.
Mr. Keprios then showed an aerial photograph of the Lewis Park area and
explained where everything is located. He noted that the proposal from
the Edina Soccer Association (ESA) is a request to make the bandy field
a soccer field and ESA will donate up to $40,000 to make that happen.
To do this, however, there is basically the potential elimination of the
large sheet of ice and bandy in Edina. He noted that bandy does have
another place to go in Roseville for $190/hour at the John Rose
Minnesota Oval.
Mr. Keprios indicated that a lot of the concerns he has heard is from
the residents living in the Lewis Ridge Condominium units whose biggest
concern is people parking in their private drive. He noted that there
are signs posted which say "NO PARKING - FIRE LANE." Mr. Keprios has
checked with Steve Landry, Edina Fire Marshall, and was told that the
City did not place those signs at that location because it is not (in
the Fire Marshall's opinion) considered to be a fire lane. Therefore
the police cannot tag people who park there. Mr. Keprios suggested that
the people living in the units contact their association's attorney to
see what steps can be taken as far as erecting signs and cars towed who
are literally trespassing on the property.
Mr. Keprios stated that the neighbors have also shown a concern about
the amount of scheduling that would be going on. He indicated that, if
this proposal is accepted, he cannot guarantee that all three fields
would not be scheduled at the same time because there may be times that
will happen.
Mr. Keprios noted that staff would like to be able to have both bandy
and soccer. However, it doesn't look as though that would be possible.
Mr. Keprios then introduced Vince Cockriel, Park Foreman, and John
Hopko, the turf management plan consultant. Mr. Hopko showed a slide
presentation and explained why the turf at Lewis Park cannot be used as
3
a multi-purpose site.
Mr. Hopko explained that planted annual rye grass or clover takes at
least 60 days before it can be exposed to traffic. It takes even longer
for sodded areas to take hold and become a safe surface for athletic
use. Mr. Cockriel indicated that at one point they tried planting rye
grass on the bandy field at Lewis Park and the end result was a bed of
weeds. Mr. Keprios asked Mr. Cockriel if you can flood over irrigation
heads and Mr. Cockriel explained that you cannot because there's a
concern of breaking lines and ruining heads. He noted there is also a
safety concern because on warms days you can get a 3 foot melted circle
around an irrigation head.
A resident stated that she talked to someone at the University of
Minnesota Extension Service and they said that you wouldn't have the
problem of the ice killing the grass if you didn't install it on the
grass but waited for snow cover. Mr. Hopko indicated first of all it
would be a challenge to do that because the minute water is applied to
the snow there is going to be some melting. He stated that the second
thing is that if ice of any form stays for 100 days you are in big
trouble and practical experience would tell him that it can't be done.
Mr. Cockriel stated that another issue is in the past few years it's
been hard finding enough snow to even get ice by Christmas. There isn't
the luxury of waiting for a nice coat of 6 to 8 inches of snow before
flooding can begin.
Ms. Simonet, resident, asked about putting down pads like what is done
on the putting greens. Mr. Hopko explained that those mats are actually
very a thin material that would not help in the ice situation because
they actually allow the water to go right through.
Mr. Keprios indicated that in Europe right now they do use fields for
both bandy and soccer and explained that they use a granular material.
He then stated that Mr. MacHolda has played on a similar surface at the
University of Minnesota. Mr. MacHolda indicated that it's a surface in
which you would not leave your feet and attempt to slide. Mr. MacHolda
pointed out that he doesn't think this surface would work for young
children.
Mr. Keprios noted that the Soccer Association and staff looked at what
other alternatives there were for soccer. He explained how some of the
other parks would not work and then noted that we do rely already on
some of the school facilities and there is the question as to whether
they will be available year after year. He indicated that with a good
turf management program you can rest a field, which is what the high
school likes to do. Mr. Keprios explained that we don't have the luxury
of resting our fields but by possibly acquiring this area as a soccer
field we may be able to rotate fields on a limited basis.
Tom McCanna, Kemrich Drive, indicated that he feels most of the people
he has spoken with feel that this isn't an issue of multi -use but it is
an issue of traffic and the desire to keep the neighborhood park a
neighborhood park. Mr. McCanna explained that if you look at the
neighborhood around the park you will see that there is a high senior
4
content in the townhouses but there is also a lot of young children and
preschool children in the neighborhood. He stated that there is a need
49 to keep the park as the park as originally planned and not as a sports
field for very dedicated purposes such as soccer. He noted that he has
nothing against soccer and that his sons play soccer, but to sacrifice a
multi -use park for a very specific park like this is not in the best
interest of the neighborhood. He indicated that he very strongly
opposes putting in the soccer field.
Mr. Keprios then explained how the different parks are classified. He
noted that the parks are designated by their acreage which also
determines the service area that the particular park should serve as far
as recreational needs. He noted that Lewis Park is a community
playfield park which is designed to serve the recreational needs of
young people and adults in a 16 square mile service area, which is
essentially all of Edina. A community playfield also typically has an
area set aside for smaller children, which is the case at Lewis. Mr.
Keprios indicated that community playfields typically range in size from
20 to 60 acres. Lewis Park is 21.04 acres. He noted that these parks
serve the whole community and are not really designed to serve just the
immediate neighborhood. Mr. Burley indicated that he totally disagrees
with this and feels it would be making Lewis Park a soccer complex and
does not feel that Lewis Park would have the necessary diversity of
recreational opportunities. Mr. Keprios indicated that it is important
to recognize the purpose or mission of Lewis Park that it is not a
neighborhood park but a community playfield.
Julie Cologne, Kemrich Drive, indicated that she has no association with
40 bandy and that she is the mother of small children. She stated that
when she takes her children to the park there are spectators watching
soccer while sitting on the swings and the equipment and therefore her
children don't have access to the play equipment. She noted that there
is not another park they can walk to. Ms. Cologne also indicated that
she doesn't see this as soccer/bandy issue but sees it as the Edina
Soccer Association having $40,000 to offer versus the neighbors that do
not want this soccer field. She noted they do not want it in their park
because people park up and down the street and are in the neighborhood
for a long time and it's just going to get worse. She pointed out that
the bandy people play their game and leave and there is never a parking
problem. She is strongly opposed to it.
Micki Simonet, Coventry Way, wanted to know if there was any way there
could be a compromise. She noted that the main concern of a lot of
people is not bandy but is hockey. She explained that she will now be
having girls play hockey and there is not a lot of ice available in
Edina. She asked if it would be possible to take out the bandy rink and
make two hockey rinks and double the size of the recreational rink and
perhaps they could be moved closer to the other soccer fields.
Frank Jones, Lewis Ridge Parkway, asked what the definition is of
adequate parking. Mr. Keprios indicated that there is adequate parking
but not at all times especially if all three fields would ever be
scheduled at once. Mr. Keprios pointed out that there is not adequate
parking at many of the scheduled parks. At Strachauer Park, for
5
example, there is no parking and they fill the neighborhood streets.
Mr. Fee asked for a clarification of when soccer would be using the
soccer fields. Patti Kelly, President of ESA, indicated that their
soccer season starts May 15th and ends July 22nd, so it's about 2 1/2
months and they play four nights a week, Monday through Thursday for 2
1/2 hours each night.
Jack Landon, Lewis Ridge Parkway, asked if there are any funds for
restroom facilities for the kids from May 15th through July 22nd so they
don't knock on the neighbors doors saying they have to use the bathroom.
Mr. Keprios noted that is one of the things they are looking into
having. He explained that the Soccer Association has been willing to
help come forward with a plan to build new restroom facilities on the
west end. However, for now they are considering putting in some
portable restrooms with fencing put around them. The Lewis Park shelter
building restroom facilities will be open and available during scheduled
soccer games.
Mary Finnegan, Coventry Way, indicated that she feels this is not a
soccer versus bandy issue but rather soccer versus general recreation.
She stated that the big sheet of ice is not just used for bandy, it
used for pick-up hockey games, boot hockey, and children learning how to
skate. She stated that you can drive by there any day of the week and
see it filled. Ms. Finnegan pointed out that she thinks it's very sad
that unless you don't come with the voice of an organized sport, you
don't have a voice. She noted that she understands how the parks are
classified, however, if that holds true then the people in this area
have no park and are left with nothing. Ms. Finnegan stated that rather
than eliminating something to put in a third soccer field she would hope
that all of the other options are explored. Ms. Finnegan noted that the
bandy rink is enjoyed by the whole community.
Ms. Bennett indicated that the rink attendance number for 1993-1995 at
Lewis park was 5,459 and that number includes everyone. She noted that
the next closest park in attendance numbers was Arden with 2,934. It
was asked how many of those people are from Bloomington and Ms. Bennett
indicated that she was told that has always been deemed a compliment
because we've got a great sheet of ice and leave it at that. She
pointed out that she just wants to make sure that everyone knows that
sheet of ice is being used and that it's not just sitting there.
Mr. Keprios stated that the large ice rink was built specifically for
bandy and Mr. Kojetin did a wonderful job of bringing bandy to Edina.
Mr. Keprios indicated that when the rink is scheduled for bandy, it's
scheduled 7 days a week every evening and every Saturday and Sunday
primarily for adults. He pointed out that there are over 20 adult teams
and that 90% of the people on those teams are non -Edina residents. Mr.
Keprios indicated that it's been a great program and he would love to be
able to keep both of them.
A resident pointed out that even when the warming house is not open
there are a lot of kids using the rink and those numbers are not put in
the attendance numbers.
I
A resident who lives in a 55 plus building indicated that all 53
4 residents would have attended the meeting if there was more room.
However, she wanted everyone to know that they love the game of bandy
and the mix that is at the park. She noted they are not in favor of
another soccer field in the summer because it will create more traffic.
Doris Clegg, Lewis Ridge, asked how many games are played on the
existing fields and how many are purposed for the third field. Mark
Anderson, Vice President of the Soccer Association, noted that the
fields would be used for the U6 and U8 divisions. He stated that there
are 400 kids in the 5 and 6 year old range and 300 kids in the 7 and 8
year old range. Mr. Anderson explained that the fields would be used
Monday through Thursday evenings starting at 5:00 p.m. He noted that
they play half hour games with the last game ending at 7:30 p.m. He
indicated that right now these kids are playing at Weber field and it is
a real concern from a safety perspective. Mr. Anderson stated that the
Park Department has two full-time men keeping the ice nice and it's
mostly because of the bandy rink. He noted that a lot of money is being
spent to keep that sheet of ice for 24 Edina youth residents to play
bandy because all of the other people playing are non-residents. He
noted that he would like to see the field used for more Edina residents.
Mr. MacHolda stated that the existing two soccer fields are scheduled
for traveling soccer and adult soccer. A resident asked how many
residents play on the adult teams. Mr. MacHolda indicated that
currently 75% of the adults that play are residents.
Dick Friedrichs, 59th Street, stated that he is a bandy player and a
member of the Edina Hockey Association. He noted that his biggest
concern isn't losing bandy but indicated that there are a lot of young
adults, boys and girls using the bandy rink to develop their skills. He
also noted that he thinks it will be hard to get ice at the John Rose
Oval, and that it's not just 24 youth bandy players using the rink.
Alice Hulbert, Tara Road, noted that she has four kids under the age of
10 and they use the park all year round. She noted that she thinks it's
very arrogant of the Soccer Association to come in and say they need
another field and here is $40,000 and you can't use it for anything else
for the rest of the year. She stated if they want to buy it they should
have to pay full market value for it. She indicated that she likes to
take her kids to the park to play kickball, baseball, summer frisbee,
walk the dog, etc. and now there will be no space to do that. She noted
that there are already two soccer fields and there needs to be a little
space left to do other things. Ms. Hulbert also noted that she brings
her kids to the park four days a week to skate and she noted that they
don't play bandy or hockey but they do like to figure skate on the rink.
She stated that she is worried about everyone being crammed into the
other rinks and is also worried about the girls getting enough ice time
for their hockey.
Patti Kelly, Edina Soccer Association President, indicated that she
thinks there is a gross misconception that appears to be surfacing that
Edina Soccer wants to use these fields solely for soccer and eliminate
any other activity on the field. She noted that is wrong. Ms. Kelly
7
stated that they are asking to use these fields for a soccer program and
then they will be open for individual use when they are not having their
games. She explained that they will use the field for 2 1/2 months,
four evenings a week and then the fields will be available to the
neighborhood for frisbee throwing, etc. Ms. Kelly pointed out that if
you don't flood the field and money is spent to make it a nice field it
will be a much better for other activities. Again, she stressed that
Edina Soccer is not trying to get a hold of these fields and use them
solely for soccer. She noted they are just asking to be able to
schedule games so there are enough fields to service the Edina resident
players. She stated that there is already a hockey rink and skating
rink there and that by eliminating the bandy rink it could free up one
full-time maintenance man to possibly open up a rink in another
neighborhood. She noted they are not trying to take away ice because it
can be put in another place that currently has no ice. She explained
that their purpose is to try and make the field usable for all people
for approximately seven months out of the year.
A resident indicated that he would like to see a study of all of the
fields before a decision is made. He noted that it seems to him that
Pamela would be a good spot and asked what kind of study was done on all
of the parks. Mr. Keprios indicated that there is nothing in writing
but that the Soccer Association and staff took it upon themselves to go
to each and every park in Edina to see if an alternate site exists for
another soccer field. He noted that the answer is yes, however, they
aren't anywhere close to what Lewis Park has to offer.
Mr. Kojetin asked if there could be some other type of turf surface like
what Mr. MacHolda was referring to so that the area could be used for
both sports. Mr. Kojetin suggested putting some of the kids on the west
field and let some of the older kids play in the dirt and then split
some of the kids that are playing at Weber. Mr. Kojetin also indicated
that from time to time that field is going to need to be regraded even
with a good sodded field and that will cost a lot of money to do. Mr.
Kojetin noted that he would like to see a trial or experimental program
where the kids are shifted around a little bit rather than zero in on
one particular facility.
Mr. Fee asked who did the turf study in the last 30 days and it was
noted the Engineering Department went and looked at it. Mr. Keprios
indicated that the Engineering Department believes that they have a
temporary water main leak and the Utility Department is trying to
correct it. He stated that in their professional opinion there is going
to be some settling, however, the majority of it has already taken
place. Mr. Fee asked with the third soccer field is there anything we
can do as far as either adding another hockey rink or expanding the
skating facility on the north side of the warming house. Mr. Keprios
indicated that would not be possible if we need to make the area a
playable soccer field.
Mr. Burley indicated that he can certainly empathize with the Soccer
Association trying to seek new fields for the kids to play on. He noted
that after running the Basketball Association he knows it's not easy
finding adequate space. Mr. Burley stated that he has a real problem
N
Mr. Herring indicated that one resident asked what kind of study was
done on the parks. He noted that it was his understanding that Mr.
MacHolda and members from the Soccer Association went to all of the
parks looking for alternative facilities. He stated that while there
was no written report it was discussed at the last meeting and he gives
a lot of deference to our staff and Mr. MacHolda who works with both
bandy and soccer. Mr. Herring noted that we are fortunate that the
Soccer Association can bring $40,000 to the table so that we can use
that money to upgrade the fields and make them playable. Mr. Herring
also pointed out that he is swayed by the number of Edina residents who
play soccer compared to the number of residents in the bandy program.
Mr. Herring also noted that he is swayed by the availability of
additional workers to go and work on other parks and do some of the
other things that we want to do during the winter. Mr. Herring
indicated that maybe Strachauer Park could be opened up again. He
stated that he is in favor of the soccer field.
9
with an organization coming to the Park Board and asking for a specific
piece of land for X amount of dollars. He noted that the Basketball
Association had $100,000 in their kitty and if they were aware that
there is a potential to, so to speak, bid for a piece of land they might
want to come in and put in basketball courts. He stated that he doesn't
think either situation is right. Mr. Burley also noted that he has a
real problem when Mr. Keprios said that Lewis Park is scheduled to be a
diversified park. He noted that he doesn't see any diversity there and
that his kids have to play baseball on the cul-de-sac with Dewey Hill
Road as their backstop. He noted that if you put another soccer field
there you make the conditions worse and then you also have all of these
other issues that the residents have spoken about. Mr. Burley indicated
that he didn't see anyone put a letter together besides the Soccer
Association that's in favor of this idea. Mr. Burley pointed out that
his kids play soccer and he certainly wants a field for them to play
soccer on but he is opposed to this entirely. He noted that as far as
the bandy versus soccer he doesn't feel that is the issue at all. He
thinks it's a neighborhood ice rink that people have grown accustomed to
that would be sorrily missed by not only the immediate neighborhood but
throughout the whole Edina and neighboring north Bloomington.
Mr. Fee indicated that he is having a hard time understanding why
everyone is getting upset about 2 1/2 hours a night, 4 nights a week for
2 1/2 months. Mr. Fee indicated that a lot of people don't realize that
we have had to close a lot of neighborhood rinks and that a lot of
maintenance is required to maintain the bandy rink. He indicated that
hopefully this maintenance can now be utilized to reopen some of the
rinks that have had to be closed. Mr. Fee stated that he was
skating
one of the original guys who played bandy and is very much in favor of
it but he has seen it change drastically from when it started 10 to 12
years ago. He indicated that it used to be 90% Edina residents and now
it's less than 10%. Mr. Fee also pointed out that this is a community
park and not a neighborhood park. Mr. Fee explained that as far as
baseball is concerned it was never intended to have a baseball field.
He noted that some parks have baseball fields and some parks have soccer
fields. Mr. Fee noted that he is very much in favor of the soccer
field.
Mr. Herring indicated that one resident asked what kind of study was
done on the parks. He noted that it was his understanding that Mr.
MacHolda and members from the Soccer Association went to all of the
parks looking for alternative facilities. He stated that while there
was no written report it was discussed at the last meeting and he gives
a lot of deference to our staff and Mr. MacHolda who works with both
bandy and soccer. Mr. Herring noted that we are fortunate that the
Soccer Association can bring $40,000 to the table so that we can use
that money to upgrade the fields and make them playable. Mr. Herring
also pointed out that he is swayed by the number of Edina residents who
play soccer compared to the number of residents in the bandy program.
Mr. Herring also noted that he is swayed by the availability of
additional workers to go and work on other parks and do some of the
other things that we want to do during the winter. Mr. Herring
indicated that maybe Strachauer Park could be opened up again. He
stated that he is in favor of the soccer field.
9
Mr. Bennett asked if the 5 and 6 year olds could be divided up so on
Monday they are at one park, Tuesday at another, etc. This way maybe
the turf could also be rested and the community as a whole could share
some of the traffic and hardships that go along with providing a park
for all of our citizens. He noted, however, that this may be
compounding the problem. Mr. Anderson indicated that's a possibility
and something that would have to be worked out with staff because they
do all of the scheduling. Mr. Bennett noted that it probably wouldn't
work for the older kids but may work for the younger ones.
Ms. Hall indicated that we don't know how many U6 and U8 kids there will
be in the next 5 to 8 years. She also noted that with the possibility
of getting a professional hockey team there may be more kids interested
in hockey and feels that is something to think about.
Ms. Bennett indicated that she lives in the Lewis Park neighborhood and
has made a lot of phone calls and has received a lot of phone calls.
She noted that she didn't talk to one person who was in favor of the
soccer field other than what has been received from soccer. She stated
that her kids play all of the sports and she is not biased one way or
another. She pointed out that she does not feel that the John Rose Oval
rink is an alternative to bandy for $190/hr. Ms. Bennett noted that she
feels if we eliminate the large sheet of ice we eliminate bandy from
Minnesota. Mr. Keprios noted that youth bandy could be played on the
hockey rinks.
Ms. Bennett stated that she doesn't see this as a bandy versus soccer
issue but sees it as a sheet of ice that's well used by the neighborhood
people as well as people who don't live in the immediate area. Ms.
Bennett indicated that she doesn't think all of our alternatives have
been looked at with regards to soccer. Ms. Bennett noted that if it's
an issue of lights that there are other facilities that could possibly
be used such as the high school since their program is a fall program.
Ms. Bennett indicated that she realizes the high school likes to rest
their fields but it is still our taxpayer dollars. Ms. Bennett also
suggested that possibly the younger kids could play in the daytime like
the Jugball program and the $40,000 could be used to create jobs for
teenagers to coach the kids during the day.
Ms. Bennett noted that she doesn't like the idea of eliminating one
sport for the sake of another if something else can be worked out. She
stated that she thinks it's real important to look at all of the
alternatives and noted that she doesn't think that has been done. Ms.
Bennett indicated that she doesn't think putting in another soccer field
is the best use of that piece of property at Lewis Park.
Mr. Dovolis indicated that he disagrees with most of Ms. Bennett's
comments. He explained that he grew up in Edina and played sports in
Edina as a young boy. He noted that he recognizes the need of getting
young people involved in sports and explained that he grew up realizing
the importance of what Edina Parks mean to Edina. Mr. Dovolis indicated
that he doesn't look at this as a bandy/soccer issue but feels we need
to look at what is good for the majority of Edina residents. Mr.
Dovolis stated that it doesn't make sense to him that a resident looks
10
at the park as it being on their own yard and only the sports they think
should be played can be played there. He noted that to him the
so enjoyment comes from the whole park system whether it be visiting or
watching young people playing. Mr. Dovolis indicated that our parks
need a lot of work because there is a lot of deterioration there. He
noted that he is here on behalf of all Edina residents and the youth to
use our facilities. Mr. Dovolis stated that he is for soccer using the
facility because he is for the people and the youth to be able to use
the facilities we have in Edina.
Mr. Jenkins explained to everyone that the Park Board is an advisory
board to the City Council and that at this point they are just trying to
get the facts and information so they can make a recommendation to the
City Council.
Mr. Keprios indicated that he feels the group present right now
represents the immediate neighborhood and his sense is that they do not
want soccer there regardless of the surface. He then noted that the
soccer people would not be satisfied with anything short of a turf that
is considered safe. Mr. Keprios stated that the majority do not think
of this as a bandy/soccer issue but rather a large general sheet of ice
that a lot of people want to keep for various reasons.
Mr. Fee asked Mr. Keprios if his recommendation is in fact to accept the
Soccer Associations proposal and asked him if he is comfortable to say
that this is the best alternative to solve the problem that exists for
the soccer people. Mr. Keprios indicated that is an accurate statement
and that we need to look at all 40,000 plus residents in which the park
serves. He noted that if it's a giant piece of ice for general skating
that people want, Centennial Lakes has one of the best spots for that in
the Twin City area. He noted that his concern is when neighborhood
groups come before the Park Board wanting an ice rink or hockey rink
because there neighborhood rink has been closed down. He stated that he
doesn't know if there are a lot of people here who in good conscious can
say that Lewis Park deserves this giant sheet of ice but the other areas
need to be denied because of the lack of available resources. Mr.
Keprios indicated that he feels this is a whole community issue.
Jim Fee MOVED THAT WE ACCEPT STAFF'S RECOMMENDATION TO ACCEPT THE
PROPOSAL FROM THE EDINA SOCCER ASSOCIATION TO PROCEED AS OUTLINED IN THE
MEMORANDUM. John Dovolis SECONDED THE MOTION.
Mr. Crowther asked that one point be clarified before he votes. He
asked if the bandy rink is closed could those resources go to Strachauer
Park or another park to add a skating facility to offset the loss. He
noted that it would serve a great need that we are hearing with girls
hockey, which is not going to be served by the bandy rink. He asked if
he can be assured that will be available. Mr. Cockriel indicated that
if we lose the bandy rink and keep the hockey rink and general skating
rink at Lewis his maintenance people could maintain two other complete
facilities.
Ms. Bennett asked if $40,000 is going to take care of getting the soccer
field to the level they want and asked if a feasibility study had been
11
done. Mr. Keprios indicated that the Engineering Department has assured
him that the job can be done for approximately $40,000.
ALL THOSE IN FAVOR OF THE MOTION.
JOHN DOVOLIS, JIM FEE, ANDREW HERRING, FRANK BENNETT, JEAN RYDELL, DAVE
CROWTHER
ALL THOSE OPPOSED TO THE MOTION.
BILL JENKINS, BECKY BENNETT, MIKE BURLEY, BETH HALL, ANDREW MONTGOMERY
MOTION CARRIED 6 TO 5.
Mr. Keprios indicated this issue will be brought before the City Council
at their June 19th meeting.
The Park Board thanked everyone who attended the meeting.
IV. PARK IMPROVEMENT PLAN UPDATE
Mr. Keprios handed out a first draft of the staff's proposed park
improvement plan. Mr. Keprios noted that he would like to work with the
park improvement committee to help prioritize how we are going to
approach everything. Mr. Keprios indicated that it is to be expected
that not everyone would agree with staff's suggestions in this first
draft. Mr. Keprios indicated that part of this plan he is hoping will
include input from the community. Mr. Burley asked if this list is what
we are hoping to raise funds for or have a referendum for. Mr. Keprios
indicated that there are different ways to fund something like this,
however, it appears as though the City is leaning towards a bond
referendum.
Mr. Burley indicated that he is on the long-range planning committee and
doesn't know if he has the talent to be able to guide everyone on what
should be done first or second. He noted that he has an opinion but
doesn't know if he is qualified enough to make those kind of decisions.
He noted that he feels a little lost. Mr. Jenkins indicated that he
will also be there to help out. Mr. Keprios stated that it really is
his job to come forward and make the recommendation and help prioritize
and come up with the information that is needed.
V. SUBCOMMITTEE MEETINGS
The Park Board and staff set up meetings for each of the subcommittees.
VI. JUNE MEETING - INCLUDING PARK TOUR
Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board where they would like to go for the
June Park Board tour. Mr. Crowther indicated that he would like to go
to the Gun Range since there have been some problems there. Mr. Keprios
then indicated that there has been another proposal put on the table
regarding the gun range. He noted that they would like to make it into
a multi -city training facility for police and fire personnel. He noted
12
•
that it would still be used for firearm safety training and it would
correct all of our environmental issues at the site. He indicated that
it's worth looking at.
Mr. Montgomery noted that he would like to see Walnut Ridge.
Mr. Jenkins indicated that he would like to look at one of the soccer
alternative fields. Mr. MacHolda indicated that Walnut Ridge was looked
at as a soccer alternative.
Mr. Fee suggested Cornelia School since there have been some
improvements done there. Mr. Keprios indicated that the June Park Board
Tour will begin at 7:00 p.m.
VII. OTHER
A. Normandale - Mr. Herring asked if they are done working on the
ball field at Normandale. Mr. Keprios indicated that they have been
struggling with the weather. He noted that the City Council did approve
to put in irrigation and it will regraded and seeded.
B. Todd Park - Mr. Montgomery indicated that he played softball at
Todd Park and it is not in very good shape. Mr. Keprios indicated that
it's in the park improvement plan.
C. Park Board Meeting Time - It was asked if anyone objected to the
Park Board meetings starting at 7:00 p.m. It was noted that would not
work for everyone therefore the meetings will remain at 7:30 p.m.
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
Dave Crowther MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 9:40 P.M. Andy Herring
SECONDED THE MOTION. MEETING ADJOURNED.
13
1
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EDINA PARK BOARD
7:00 p.m. Tour
June 13, 1995
MEMBERS PRESENT: Andrew Montgomery, Beth Hall, Jim Fee, Becky Bennett, Jean
Rydell, Bill Jenkins, John Dovolis, Mike Burley
MEMBERS ABSENT: Dave Crowther, Andrew Herring, Frank Bennett
STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Janet Canton
OTHERS PRESENT: Ed Myslivecek
I. PARK BOARD TOUR
The Park Board took a tour to the following parks:
A. Grove Street/Moore Property Open Space - Mr. Keprios indicated that
he has been approached by a few residents to have a community gardens.
The Moore Property site is currently the location under consideration by
staff. It was asked if the Garden Council would be part of this and it
was noted that they would not although they think it is a good idea. It
was asked who would maintain it and Mr. Keprios indicated that the
maintenance men would till the property once a year and that the cost
would be recovered from the fee that is charged to have a garden. It
was noted that the land would be divided into 8 to 10 plots and only
vegetables would be planted. Mr. Keprios explained that this would be
done on an experimental basis and that letters would be sent out to area
residents explaining the community gardens project. The Park Board
indicated that they think this is a good idea as long as the neighbors
do not object.
B. Cornelia School Park - Mr. Keprios indicated that, for the past four
years, Mike Julius has organized dozens of volunteers and secured
various funds to plan over 400 trees and make several other improvements
at the Cornelia School/Park with the assistance from the Park
Maintenance Department staff. He stated that the playground equipment
is the School District's and that the city is giving $15,000 to this
park for new basketball hoops, asphalt, trash receptacles and park
benches. The park, however, still needs several improvements, such as,
a new warming house which would cost between $100,000 and $150,000. Mr.
Keprios pointed out that under the new Turf Management Plan this park is
100% tolerant for weeds. He also pointed out what the new park benches
look like that will eventually be placed in all of the parks.
C. Lewis Park - Mr. Keprios pointed out the cedar fence posts that have
been put around the portable restrooms. It was asked if a backstop
could be put in for the neighborhood kids to play ball. Mr. Keprios
4b noted that he would be happy to look into it.
t
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D. Brian Wippermann Memorial Gun Range - Mr. Keprios explained that
there has been talk about turning the gun range into a multi -city
training center. He noted that we need to upgrade the indoor
ventilation system to eliminate a lead dust problem. He explained that
to upgrade the ventilation system it will cost between $35,000 and
$50,000. He stated that to remove the lead from the outdoor facility we
have received preliminary cost estimates of approximately $100,000 to
$250,000. It was asked how much is the gun range used by Edina
residents and Mr. Keprios replied that he doesn't know since it is open
to the public and is well advertised throughout the twin cities. He
also pointed out that, with the exception of the Minneapolis Gun Club in
Lakeville, we are the only outdoor trap range in the area. Mr. Keprios
explained that if they did not have private rentals they would lose a
lot of money. He noted that right now the gun range breaks even
financially. Mr. Keprios stressed that the lead issue is an important
environmental issue and that turning the gun range into a training
center would help solve a lot of problems.
E. Walnut Ridge - Mr. Keprios pointed out the tennis courts that are
currently being resurfaced by Mikkelson Construction. He also pointed
out that the turf area is on a flood plain and would be an unstable turf
area for soccer as well as there is very little parking. He noted that
there is a lot of concrete underneath the turf area that was used as
land fill when the park was originally developed. Mr. Keprios pointed
out that the playground equipment needs to be upgraded.
II. APPROVAL OF MAY 9. 1995 PARK BOARD MINUTES
John Dovolis MOVED TO APPROVE THE MAY 9, 1995 MINUTES. Mike Burley
SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED.
III. APPOINTMENT TO EDINA COMMUNITY EDUCATION SERVICES BOARD
Mr. Keprios indicated that there needs to be a formal nomination for the
appointment to the Edina Community Education Services Board.
John Dovolis MOVED TO APPOINT JEAN RYDELL TO THE EDINA COMMUNITY
EDUCATION SERVICES BOARD. Beth Hall SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
IV. OTHER
A. Edina Soccer Association Proposal - Mr. Keprios thanked all of the
Park Board members for their help in trying to resolve the ESA proposal
issue from the last two Park Board meetings. He noted that staff will
do their best to resolve these types of issues at the staff level so
they do not become major issues that demand City Council approval.
B. Bredesen Park - Mr. Jenkins indicated that Mr. Faust recently was
riding his bike on the path at Bredesen Park when another gentlemen was
coming straight at him. He noted that he dove to get out of the way and
wiped out. Mr. Jenkins suggested the paths be repainted at Bredesen
Park. Mr. Keprios indicated that he will look into it.
2
C. July Meeting - Mr. Montgomery asked if there is a meeting on July
CD11th and 18th. Mr. Keprios indicated that, as noted in the staff
report, there currently is a Park Board meeting scheduled for July 11
and the Braemar Inspection Tour is scheduled for July 18. He stated
that there are a few items that will need to be discussed.
Mr. Keprios pointed out that the Edina Basketball Association wants to
propose a joint funding venture to bring the basketball courts up to
speed. He also noted that part of their current verbal proposal is to
create a new basketball court at Wooddale Park.
Mr. Jenkins asked if the Basketball Association could wait to present
their idea at the August Park Board meeting and not have a July meeting.
Mr. Keprios noted that the Basketball Association would like to do some
things yet this year and if it is delayed another month we unfortunately
lose construction for a month or two.
Mr. Jenkins stated that he would like to skip the July 11th meeting and
have the Basketball Association give their presentation at the Braemar
Inspection Tour, after golf but before dinner. Everyone agreed to this.
3
Mr. Burley asked if there is a problem putting a basketball court in at
Wooddale Park. Mr. Keprios indicated that there may be a problem from
the neighbors perspective, as well as, a parking issue. Mr. Jenkins
asked if more background information could be put in his staff report on
the issue. Mr. Keprios explained that what the EBA is currently
proposing is to build a basketball court this year. He noted that he
explained to them that we are on a charge where we are not going to
build anything new until we repair the infrastructure that is already in
place. He stated that the Basketball Association indicated that, if we
repair the basketball court at Strachauer Park, then the EBA would fund
the repairs for possibly Weber Park or some other hard surface area in
need of repair. Mr. Keprios explained that the EBA is very interested
in having the outdoor basketball courts brought up to speed as soon a
possible.
Mr. Dovolis asked what the thoughts are on putting together a game plan
of what needs to be done before the end of the year and how are we going
to prioritize certain items. Mr. Keprios indicated that is something
that the subcommittee and Park Board will address. Mr. Keprios noted
that his first preference would be to fund the park improvements through
the capital plan over a period of 6 or 7 years. The Edina City Council
will ultimately decide what funding approach will be utilized, which may
be a general obligation bond issue. Mr. Dovolis asked when are we going
to get this so we get up to speed and know where we are at. Mr. Keprios
indicated as soon as he can get it. Mr. Fee asked how much is going to
be allocated and Mr. Keprios noted that it's more complicated than a
simple dollar figure. He explained that there are several other parts
to the issue which includes possibly renovating City Hall, building a
new paramedic/fire station, and training facility at the gun range. He
noted there are a lot of things involved. Ms. Bennett asked if it will
all be under one bond and Mr. Keprios indicated that the number of
issues will be decided by the Edina City Council.
3
Mr. Burley asked if the budget has been $180,000 for the last ten years
and Mr. Keprios noted that it used to be $220,000. Mr. Burley asked if
it's been cut down because the tax base is small. Mr. Keprios indicated
no, it's been cut back because we are a very conservative city.
Mr. Keprios noted that the 1996 budgeting process is currently underway.
Mr. Keprios explained that all of the expenses don't come out of taxes,
there is a good percentage that comes out of fees, licenses, and
charges. Mr. Keprios noted that he doesn't know what to cut in the Park
Department other than staff which means the grass would be mowed less
than it is now, etc. Mr. Burley indicated that he thinks there are
different ways to fund the department's capital needs other than through
the $180,000. He noted that there are so many services provided for all
of the athletic associations which currently require a user fee. Mr.
Fee noted that's what the City Council wants to see is more user fees
charged for people who use the park and recreation facilities.
Ms. Bennett indicated that it seems like a lot of the associations, such
as basketball and soccer, have needs and have the funds to support their
needs and are coming forward with the funds. She noted that she has had
people come up to her and ask her why is there an excess in these
associations funds when they are paying all of these traveling fees.
Mr. Jenkins noted that is where it is coming from.
Mr. Burley indicated that he used to run the basketball program and when
he took over their budget had $3,000. He explained that they then cut
everything out such as socks, kept fees the same and had scholarships.
He noted that at the end of the season they had $35,000 to $40,000 in
the budget and realized they went too far the other way. He explained
that they never really readjusted it to make it fair and now they have
all of these slush funds. He noted that what he thinks people are
expressing to Ms. Bennett is a concern that people pay a fee blindly and
so their kids can participate in a sport and some of these athletic
associations have a lot of money. Mr. Burley stated that he doesn't
know if this is our business or not, but is it right that these
associations have so much money. Mr. Fee noted that they are
independent associations and that's where we get into the fine line of
do we let them run themselves or do we give them some input. Mr.
Jenkins pointed out that most of the associations have been pretty good
about throwing money towards the City as far as helping to upgrade
different facilities, etc. He noted that he thinks that some of the
associations are more than willing to put money towards Park and
Recreation. Mr. Burley noted that is not what he is saying because so
far everything has been positive. What he is saying is that as a Park
Board is it our job to put a little bit of a benchmark on this. He
noted that people naively think we as an organization help set those
fees. Ms. Bennett noted that they are under our umbrella and people
absolutely think that.
Mr. Fee indicated that we charge a field use fee which the associations
incorporate into their registration fee. Mr. Fee noted that the
associations are in control of their own budgets and as a Park Board we
are not involved in those issues. He noted he's not sure how involved
4
the staff gets in those issues but for the most part they are very
independent boards. Mr. Keprios stated that the associations are meant
to be independent.
Mr. Dovolis explained that he was involved with the Football Association
for 12 years and that they helped put in bleachers, a press box, lights
and scoreboards at Braemar. He stated that we need to learn to tap into
those funds a little bit more. Mr. Fee indicated that if the City
Council is asking that we tighten things up and have a zero increase in
the budget, we are going to have to look at different alternatives and
pass them on. Ms. Bennett stated that at some point these non-profit
associations are making a profit. Mr. Dovolis indicated that they are
supposed to give back a certain percentage but he doesn't think that's
happening. Ms. Bennett asked what is that percentage and Mr. Dovolis
stated that it's in the Non -Profit Act and he doesn't remember what the
exact percentage is. Mr. Dovolis indicated they are suppose to give a
certain percentage back and he thinks it might be a good idea if the
associations are talked to and we start tapping into some of these funds
because there are a lot of dollars involved.
V. ADJOURNMENT
John Dovolis MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:40 P.M. Becky Bennett
SECONDED THE MOTION. MEETING ADJOURNED.
•
Mr. Burley asked what do we charge for a kid to play in a sport. Mr.
Keprios indicated that we currently charge a $5.00 field use fee. Also,
for Braemar Arena facility users, there is a $15 capital fee that goes
to offset the bonds at the new east arena. Mr. Keprios explained that
his own personal view is that this is not the way to maintain and
develop our parks. He noted that the associations do a fabulous job and
that we have one of the best set ups in the country. He stated that he
like headed in the direction to find ways to
would not to see us
manipulate as much money out of these independent groups as a regular
source of capital and/or operating income to maintain what we have. Mr.
Keprios indicated that he believes that we should not rely on these
associations to fund our capital plan. Mr. Jenkins stated that he feels
the park system funding should come from the general fund. Mr. Keprios
noted that it's a public good and everybody should pay for it. Mr.
Dovolis indicated that is not what they are saying. They are saying
that maybe we should use these funds as much as we can, not as a way the
parks should be funded, but should somehow be tapped into for some
creative financing.
Ms. Bennett indicated that she heard Courtney Fields are going to be
torn up next year and asked what the status is on that. Mr. Keprios
stated that they are in need of a total rejuvenation. It is becoming
unsafe turf in the outfield.
V. ADJOURNMENT
John Dovolis MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:40 P.M. Becky Bennett
SECONDED THE MOTION. MEETING ADJOURNED.
•
EDINA PARK BOARD
7:30 p.m.
July 11, 1995
MEMBERS PRESENT
MEMBERS ABSENT
STAFF PRESENT:
OTHERS PRESENT
Becky Bennett, Dave Crowther, Jim Fee, Beth Hall, Andrew
Herring, Bill Jenkins, Andrew Montgomery
Frank Bennett, Michael Burley, John Dovolis, Jean Rydell
John Keprios, Ed MacHolda, Janet Canton, John Valliere
Jason S. Rice, Bob Ferris, Marion Ferris
I. APPROVAL OF THE JUNE 13, 1995 PARK _BOARD MINUTES
Jim Fee MOVED TO APPROVE THE JUNE 13, 1995 MINUTES. Beth Hall SECONDED
THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED.
II. SENIOR DISCOUNT/BRAEMAR GOLF COURSE - JASON RICE, RESIDENT
Mr. Keprios explained that Jason Rice, a resident of Edina for several
years, asked that the senior discount at Braemar Golf Course be
discussed. He indicated that the senior discount was eliminated in
1993. Mr. Keprios noted that Mr. Valliere is in the audience and then
introduced Mr. Rice to the Park Board.
Mr. Rice explained to the Park Board that he is not here as an adversary
and does not want to be treated as one. It was noted that everyone
received the memorandum that Mr. Valliere wrote in December of 1993.
Mr. Rice explained that initially he received fees and charges, costs,
and budgets from the Park and Recreation Department office because he
was going to address that, however, cost isn't really the issue. He
indicated that the action taken against the senior golfing members by
eliminating the senior golf rates does not echo the sentiments for the
majority of the citizens of Edina including the young and old. He
stated that he would think most people would agree that it is morally
wrong for anyone to pit one segment of our society against another,
which is the old and the young in this case. He noted that Mr. Valliere
stated in his memorandum that we can no longer ask the younger
population to subsidize the older population. Mr. Rice stated that he
was brought up to believe that the young are expected to take care of
their old. He pointed out that he assumes what Mr. Valliere is saying
in his memorandum is that it is okay to live in Edina as long as you can
pay your way in full. However, if you can't do it after you retire you
need to go someplace else and play golf because you are not welcome
here. Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. Rice what is his point and suggestion. Mr.
Rice stated that the point is let's get something back in place where it
belongs.
t -
Mr. Rice pointed out that Mr. Valliere also stated that if golf were a
necessity in his view it might be different. Mr. Rice indicated that he
finds that interesting in view of the fact that the junior rates still
apply. He noted that he's glad they do because he would not want to be
part of any effort that would deny them of their right to learn to play
golf. Mr. Rice indicated that if ever a game could be classified as a
necessity, especially for the elderly to play, it is the game of golf.
He noted that the AMA, PGA, LPA and MGA as well as numerous other
organizations find that golf is the best therapy in life for a retired
person. He also pointed out that it gives the senior golfer the
opportunity to be able to play and mingle with the younger people which
isn't easy for seniors to do these days. He asked that this not be
taken away from them.
Mr. Rice stated that to play a round of golf at Braemar costs $40.00,
which includes a cart, and he feels this is not a fair price. He noted
that they are not competitive with other golf courses in the
metropolitan area. He pointed out that at Rich Acres in Richfield he
pays $23.50 with a cart and that at Dwan Golf Course in Bloomington it's
$32.00 for seniors. He noted he is fully aware of fiscal responsibility
but along with that goes moral responsibility and it's not right to put
the burden on the backs of seniors who can least afford it.
Mr. Rice explained that what constitutes a senior program is to first of
all set a realistic age limit of 60 to 62 years old. Mr. Rice stated
that everyone may wonder why he is coming in three years later and he
explained that if you get kicked in the teeth everywhere you go, you end
up walking away with the feeling you don't want us and we don't want
you. However, that's not right because two wrongs don't make a right.
Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. Rice what his suggestion is and Mr. Rice noted
this needs to be turned around. Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. Rice what he
wants to see turned around and Mr. Rice indicated that he would like to
see a senior discount rate program such as the one that is offered at
Rich Acres. Mr. Rice explained that he has heart disease and arthritis.
Therefore, he cannot walk for long periods of time and has a state card
which indicates he needs a cart to play golf. He noted that it costs
$20.00 for a cart. Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. Rice isn't it $10.00 because
you would share the cost of the cart with someone. Mr. Rice stated that
if he plays alone it's $20.00. Mr. Rice stated that to play 18 holes of
golf at Braemar, it's $20.00 for the cart and $20.00 for a round of
golf. Again, he stated that same game of golf at Rich Acres is $23.50.
It's $10.00 for the cart and $13.50 for the game.
The Park Board asked Mr. Valliere how much the carts cost at Braemar.
Mr. Valliere stated that it's $20.00 and if it's one person it's $10.00,
however, it is not advertised because it is too hard to police. Mr Rice
expressed to Mr. Valliere that if he doesn't.advertise it that means he
doesn't offer it unless he is doing it for special people. He stated
that Mr. Valliere is leading people to believe he offers a $10.00 rate
and he doesn't.
Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. Rice if he would like to see Braemar have a
similar structure to that of Rich Acres or Dwan. Mr. Fee noted that he
6
® just played the Wilds, which is a public course in Prior Lake, and paid
$80.00. Mr. Fee then indicated that he doesn't think Rich Acres and
Dwan is a fair comparison to Braemar. He noted that Braemar is listed
as one of the top 75 public courses in the country where Rich Acres and
Dwan aren't even on the map. Mr. Fee pointed out that what he is trying
to say is that all golf courses are not equal and therefore do not
charge equally. The better courses cost more money. There's a
tremendous difference in the product.
Mr. Montgomery asked isn't it fair to say that most courses have a
junior, regular and senior rate. He feels that is what Mr. Rice is
trying to say and he thinks that is generally true. Mr. Fee stated that
he thinks that whole issue is becoming a lot more blended and that a lot
of private courses and public courses are eliminating the senior
discount. He also pointed out that many of the resort courses in
Florida, Las Vegas and Phoenix do not differentiate between a senior and
a non -senior. Mr. Rice noted that he disagrees with Mr. Fee because he
does plays golf in Florida and they do offer a senior discount.
Mr. Rice stated we are talking about a 6,000 yd. course and Mr. Fee
indicated that we are talking about quality of product. Mr. Rice then
noted that Rich Acres is as good of quality golf course as Braemar and
Mr. Jenkins and Mr. Fee both disagreed with that. Mr. Rice then asked
what does a rating have to do with product and what has it got to do
with senior rates for senior citizens. Mr. Fee explained that the
product costs more. Mr. Rice indicated that the golf course is a profit
center and is not losing money. Ms. Hall stated that we have to make
some money because there are a lot of expenses and therefore all money
does go back into the golf course. Mr. Fee stated that we do not
operate profit centers within the City of Edina. Mr. Keprios explained
that Braemar Golf Course is an enterprise facility which means that
typically all profits that are generated by that particular facility are
reinvested back into that facility.
Mr. Montgomery noted there cannot be a discount rate at all times
because obviously the weekends are prime time. Mr. Rice indicated that
he agrees there would have to be some restrictions on a senior discount.
Mr. Rice again brought up the point that a senior citizen in Richfield
gets a break from his golf course as well as at Dwan. Mr. Fee again
stated that the product is not the same as Braemar. He stated those
facilities don't have 27 holes, two executive nines and the clubhouse
facility that Braemar has. Mr. Fee stated that youpay for what you
get. Mr. Rice asked if what you are saying is true then why is there a
junior rate. Mr. Fee noted that is on the executive course, not the
main course. Mr. Valliere explained that juniors can purchase a multi -
round pass which is 10 rounds for $75.00. Mr. Fee stated that's a
package deal which he feels is different.
Mr. Valliere indicated that he would like to explain a few things.
First of all MAC, Metropolitan Airport Commission, has land that's
involved with the Rich Acres Golf Course and they have two stipulations.
First, that there be senior rate and secondly, that the City of
Richfield cannot restrict a residency requirement for the purchase of
patron cards because of the MAC profit. He also indicated that he just
3
checked with the course manager at Dwan and they do not have a senior
rate. Mr. Rice stated that he just checked and it is $32.00. Mr.
Valliere noted that he believes that is the fee to play golf.
Mr. Valliere explained that some people have asked him to have
physically challenged rates and Mr. Jenkins asked how would that be
administered. Mr. Valliere noted that is the problem. If there was a
flag on a cart for every handicapped or physically challenged person in
one day there would be a flag on many carts and it would be hard to
police.
Mr. Rice indicated that when you go to the golf course to register as a
senior you pay for that senior card. He noted that he pays $20.00 for
his card at Rich Acres and in order to get the handicap rate he has to
produce his state registration as a handicap person. There is no
difficultly in policing this.
Mr. Keprios explained to Mr. Rice that he does have a couple of options.
First, he could request that the Park Board make a recommendation to the
City Council for an immediate change in their fee structure. Another
option could be to let the Park Board think about it and possibly make
the recommended change in the normal procedures for fees and charges by
a resolution. This procedure takes place at the November Park Board
meeting and is then submitted to the City Council to establish the 1996
fees. Mr. Rice asked Mr. Keprios which way he thinks the motion would
have a better chance of passing. Mr. Keprios indicated that his advice
is to not force the issue tonight and let the Park Board think about it
and address the issue at the November meeting.
Mr. Jenkins stated that Braemar has three different nines, an executive
course, a great clubhouse and you can play 18 holes for $16.00 if you
are a patron. He feels this is a very fair rate. Mr. Rice agreed with
that but stated he has a problem with paying $20.00 for a cart if it is
just him playing. Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. Rice if his cart cost $10.00
and his round of golf cost $16.00 would he consider that a fair price.
Mr. Rice stated that would be great. Mr. Jenkins then asked Mr. Rice if
we were to advertise $10.00 for a single cart rate would he want to
further pursue a senior discount beyond that. Mr. Rice noted that he
has asked a lot of seniors and non -seniors and everyone agrees there
should be a senior rate. However, he feels that $16.00 for golf and
$10.00 for a cart is great. Mr. Keprios then asked Mr. Rice if he would
consider this matter as resolved if the single cart rate is advertised
and honored. Mr. Rice indicated that it's perfect and he couldn't ask
for anything more. Mr. Jenkins thanked Mr. Rice for coming to the Park
Board.
Mr. Fee indicated this is completely contrary to what the City Council
wants, because they want people to pay for what they use. Mr. Jenkins
pointed out that he thinks Mr. Rice is okay with paying $26.00. Mr. Fee
stated that paying $16.00 to play at Braemar shouldn't even be a
conversation.
Mr. Crowther asked Mr. Valliere if it is frequent that single people use
carts. Mr. Valliere indicated that it is not frequent but the reason
4
�® they don't advertise it is because it becomes. a policing problem.
® People start out as a single and will pick someone up on the course.
Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board to give him and Mr. Valliere the
opportunity to discuss this and make a suggestion for the 1996 fee
structure. Mr. Jenkins stated that would be fine and asked that the
Park Board also revisit the senior issue at that point. Mr. Crowther
indicated that if there is a special deal for juniors it's hard not to
address the senior issue. Ms. Bennett stated that she doesn't think the
seniors are looking for a huge discount, but would like to be recognized
that they do get a break and she doesn't think that is a bad idea.
Mr. Valliere pointed out that the number of seniors at Braemar far
exceeds the other golf courses that were mentioned. Mr. Fee asked if
rounds also exceed the other golf courses and Mr. Valliere stated yes.
Mr. Valliere explained that Mr. Rice doesn't realize this but he is
already getting a discounted rate. He pointed out that in 1994 there
was a $3.00 difference between the non -patron and patron. In 1995 it
was increased because over time the percentage had shrunk and patrons
now get $4.00 off. If we had recommended leaving it where it was it
would be $20.00 and $17.00 with a $1.00 off for seniors. Therefore, he
is right where he would have been and they really are getting a fair
shake.
III. EDINA SOCCER ASSOCIATION PROPOSAL UPDATE
Mr. Keprios indicated that he met with Mr. MacHolda and three members
from the Edina Soccer Association to discuss some alternatives as to how
to resolve the soccer issue. He stated that the City Council asked
staff and Park Board to seek other alternatives to resolve the matter.
The Soccer Association recently voted unanimously at their July Board
meeting to table the matter for 15 months. Mr. Jenkins asked how they
came up with 15 months and Mr. Keprios explained that it will give the
soccer program an entire season to see how it goes with Plan B, which
may not require further involvement from the Park Board or the City
Council. Mr. Keprios pointed out that he feels the matter has been
temporarily resolved at the staff level.
Mr. Keprios explained that Plan B will consist of the Park Department
cutting the grass at the bandy field site at Lewis Park and having the
U6 soccer program play on two fields that will be created going in an
east/west direction. This would not eliminate the site for ice skating
during the winter months.
Mr. Fee stated that he knows it came as a surprise to Mayor Richards
that the school fields were not available to the Soccer Association.
Mr. Keprios noted that one of the alternatives that was discussed was
possibly using the field between the Community Center and South View
Middle School. He indicated that after talking to Steve Dove and the
person who maintains the field, both feel strongly against us using it
because it is the only small window of time that the field can rest. He
explained that the field is used for junior varsity programs, marching
band, and phy-ed classes. Mr. Keprios explained that he knows what it
5
takes to have good turf and he can respect that they need to rest their
field as part of their maintenance program. 8
Mr. Keprios noted that he talked to the Superintendent of Edina Schools,
Dr. Ken Dragseth, and shared what he heard from the school staff. Mr.
Keprios explained that it would not be his recommendation at this point
in time to force the school to sway from their field maintenance
program. In addition, it is a plus to not have to rely on the school
for another field. Mr. Keprios stated that we already rely on them for
two fields and the future availability of those are in question at this
time.
Mr. Keprios stated that he feels a lot of different options and
alternatives have been looked at. He noted that it is staff's
recommendation that we not take up any more park green space that isn't
already an athletic field and turn into another athletic field. Mr.
Jenkins asked how much the soccer field at Pamela is being used and Mr.
MacHolda stated it is being used too much and pointed out that the
senior field shows considerable wear. Mr. MacHolda explained that the
Soccer Association has been disappointed with the condition of a number
of fields due to excessive use. Mr. Keprios pointed out that if we can
do a good job of providing adequate turf for the U6 program to play on,
hopefully the program will be successful. He stated that, in his
opinion, there is better turf at Lewis Park than what they are currently
playing on at Weber, plus, there is adequate parking at Lewis Park.
Mr. Keprios explained that a letter has been drafted to include in the
football and soccer packets reminding people to not park on the private
driveways and to use the parking lot. Mr. Keprios then indicated that
he also has copied a letter that he wrote in response to some questions
that people have asked. He pointed out that the Ferris' are here
tonight and are interested in this issue.
Mr. Ferris asked about the parking situation and Mr. Keprios stated that
there is only so much the City can do short of putting up a fence. He
indicated that it really becomes a private issue of the condominium
association of putting up signs, towing people, etc. Mr. Keprios stated
that we have and will continue to work cooperatively together on this
issue. Mr. Ferris explained that his concern is you can't take a
lighted field and use it for 5 to 8 year olds because eventually there
are going to be tournaments at Lewis Park and there will not be enough
parking space. Mr. Ferris indicated that they went through this a
couple of years ago when there were two fields. He then asked if the
Soccer Association has offered their $40,000 to the school district. It
was indicated no. Mr. Crowther stated that at this point they are
withdrawing their offer completely and he's sure that it is something
they may look at in the future.
Mr. Montgomery indicated that he doesn't understand why they are
building a regulation field for 5 and 6 years olds. Is there something
else they want the bigger field for. Mr. Keprios stated that for the
Edina Soccer Association to program four U6 teams at the same time, they
need the real estate equivalent to the size of a senior field. Ms.
Bennett indicated that the field at Weber Park is very small and they've
M
changed it where it is now 3 on 3 and they've changed the whole dynamics
of how the kids are learning to play in the U6 program. Mr. MacHolda
stated that the fields are 20 yards by 30 yards and they do play 3 on a
side which is the correct size field and the correct number of
participants. He explained that with fewer participants the kids are
able to touch the ball more and learn technique. Ms. Bennett stated
that she is not questioning the technique but wanted to know why they
needed such a big field. Mr. MacHolda indicated that it's not really
the field they are looking for but it is the turf. He then pointed out
all you really need is 50% of the space and also stated that you do not
need the entire bandy rink for general skating. He stated that, if
bandy were eliminated, it would be more than adequate space for general
skating. Mr. MacHolda expressed that the Soccer Association is not
looking to schedule tournaments at Lewis Park and pointed out there
isn't even a traveling tournament in Edina.
Mr. Herring indicated that there are two things that have come out of
this issue that have bothered him. First of all, he didn't realize that
there are two full-time people maintaining the bandy rink for a sport
which has a limited number of Edina residents playing as well as they
are only paying a $6.00 user fee. He stated that he considers this an
unusually large amount of labor that is being dedicated to one rink. He
noted that he recognizes the rink has a lot of appeal as an open sheet
of ice in the community and doesn't want to minimize that. However, he
pointed out that we have had to close other parks such as Strachauer,
Todd, Garden and York because we do not have enough manpower. Ms.
Bennett asked how many hours do the maintenance people put in at Lewis
Park. Mr. Keprios explained that they put in 40 hours a week there.
Mr. Herring asked how many maintenance men are there total who maintain
the rinks. Mr. Keprios indicated that it's 12 or 13 men who maintain
the 10 rinks. Mr. Herring noted that there seems to be an
extraordinarily large number of people dedicated to one site.
Mr. Herring stated secondly is the contrast between the cost of the
Roseville bandy rink and our bandy rink. We are charging our bandy
players $6.00 each and Roseville charges $170.00/hour. He indicated
that this needs to be re-evaluated for a much higher fee if we are going
to have a dedicated resource like this. Ms. Bennett noted that she
thinks the bandy people indicated that they are willing to pay more to
play. Mr. Herring also noted that he has a problem in that he
understands the bandy program is difficult to administer and that a lot
of management time is spent on the program. He indicated that it is his
understanding that some teams turned in their registration fees very
late and some never even turned in rosters. He stated he finds this
unacceptable especially when we are talking about such a limited number
of Edina residents who play bandy.
Mr. Jenkins noted that he has no problem with bandy being gone, it's the
surface that is being used there because it's a fabulous skating area.
Mr. Herring indicated that he understands that. Mr. Fee pointed out
that 70% of the sheet of ice is used for bandy utilization.
® Mr. Keprios asked if he reads the general consensus as approving that
the U6 program play at Lewis Park next year if we do the best we can
7
with the turf that we have. Mr. Jenkins noted he thinks so. Ms.
Bennett asked if there has been any discussion on seeding the area 4
just leaving it for now. Mr. Keprios noted that he plans to consult
with Mr. Cockriel to establish a turf maintenance plan for that field.
However, we are definitely going to address a drainage issue and the
Engineering Department has assured us that it can be corrected. Mr.
Keprios indicated that he may ask the Soccer Association to help pay for
it. Mr. Fee pointed out if that's what we are doing then we are
facilitating them and they should share in part of the cost. Mr. Fee
stated that it still seems like there could be something available
through the schools and Mr. Keprios noted that it is an option.
Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. Herring if he feels it would be better to get rid
of the ice surface at Lewis Park. Mr. Herring noted that Centennial
Lakes is a fabulous facility for general skating. Ms. Bennett replied
that at Centennial Lakes you cannot bring a hockey stick or puck on the
ice. Mr. Herring pointed out that he understands you cannot take a
hockey stick or puck on the general skating rink at Lewis Park either.
However, there would still be a general skating rink there. Mr. Herring
explained that if you draw circles within a half mile there is ice
almost everywhere except for places like Strachauer.
IV. EDINA SENIOR CENTER
Mr. Keprios complimented Mr. Herring for getting the meeting together
with Mr. Rosland and Mr. Johnson to extend the lease on the Senior
Center to the year 2006. 8
Mr. Keprios pointed out that results from the Senior Survey were very
interesting. He indicated that of the 38% of seniors who returned the
survey, 84% are satisfied with current location of the Senior Center.
Mr. Fee asked if 38% is a low response and it was noted that it
considered fairly high for a survey.
V. PARK IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board if they all received a copy of the
first draft on the Park Improvement Plan that the staff presented to the
City Council. He indicated that it will be on the City Council agenda
set for Monday for discussion.
Mr. Fee asked what is going to be done at the Aquatic Center for one
million dollars. Mr. MacHolda explained that the main expense is the
filtration system which will cost approximately $230,000 and should be
fixed before we open next year. He also noted that the bathhouse will
need to be upgraded. The bathhouse is approximately 38 years old and
needs repairs and upgrades. In addition, if we abide by the state law
regarding bather loads, we would be turning people away after 600 people
have entered the pool. The bather load is based on the combination of
water surface square footage and the number of available restrooms and
showers.
N
I
Ms. Bennett
at the pool
dealing with
Thorkelson.
asked who is the pool manager because she explained she was
this past weekend and the girl did a really nice job in
the people. Mr. MacHolda stated that her name is Laura
Mr. MacHolda pointed out that this past Thursday night KARE 11 news was
at the pool and gave us some great publicity. People from all over the
metro area wanted to take advantage of the facility that weekend and
were unable to because of the annual Edina Aquatennial Swim Meet. He
explained that some Edina residents have expressed their disappointment
that the pool is closed to the public on that popular weekend. Mr.
Keprios stated that Mr. MacHolda and his staff have done a great job
managing the Edina Aquatic Center.
VI. SUB -COMMITTEES
Mr. Keprios indicated that he was instructed by Mr. Jenkins to cancel
all of the sub -committee meetings with the exception of the by-laws
meeting. Mr. Jenkins asked the Park Board if they want to keep the sub-
committees and everyone indicated yes. Mr. Jenkins then suggested that
the duties of the sub -committees and their purpose be fine tuned. Mr.
Keprios indicated that he thinks the Facilities Maintenance Committee
needs a mission statement. He noted that he understands the mission of
the Park Improvement Committee. He also noted that the fees and charges
is one that is going to be addressed, however, suggested that there may
not be a need for a special fees and charges committee. Mr. Keprios
explained that he would like to see the Park Improvement Committee have
49 a couple of more members in case some people cannot attend a meeting
there are others to fall back on. He indicated that the by-laws
committee is basically a short-term committee that will probably serve
more as a task force committee.
Ms. Bennett asked Mr. Keprios what he sees the Park Improvement Sub -
Committee doing beyond what has already been done. She indicated she
feels they need some direction. Mr. Keprios explained that he would
like for this sub -committee to discuss different ideas and review
staff's recommendations before these visions are brought to the general
public for feedback.
VII. OTHER
A. Turf Management Program - Mr. Jenkins asked how the turf is doing
this year with the introduction of the Turf Management Program. Mr.
Keprios indicated it is going very well. He stated that the turf
consultant has said that he is really pleased with the maintenance that
we are currently doing and feels we have a pretty good head start on a
lot of areas. The turf consultant also pointed out that we have some
serious problems with some of the athletic fields. He explained that
it's not so much weed issues as it is unsafe turf conditions that need
to be renovated.
Mr. Keprios pointed out that he doesn't think we are going to see the
results of the turf management experiment for a couple of years. He
noted that he is really pleased with the work and help that the turf
E
consultant has provided us. Mr. Keprios also indicated that the
University of Minnesota has taken a tremendous interest in what we are
doing and want to possibly offer us some grant money to do some public
education.
Mr. Crowther asked if there has been an increase in the level of
complaints with the new turf management program. Mr. Keprios indicated
that there were no more than normal, however, it's actually too early in
the program to evaluate its success.
B. Gypsy Moth Spraying - Mr. Crowther asked about the gypsy moth
spraying. Mr. Keprios indicated there were two applications, one on May
23rd and one on May 30th. He noted that the Police Department, Fire
Department and park staff were all involved in the process, which went
very well. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture will not be able to
determine the success of the program until the end of August or first
part of September.
C. Tennis Courts - Mr. Keprios indicated that three sets of tennis
courts are being resurfaced. He noted that Mikkelson Construction has
done a really good job with them. He stated that they are just
finishing up Walnut Ridge Park and expects Highlands tennis courts to be
a big challenge because of its poor condition. He explained that the
next time Highlands tennis court needs resurfacing it will have to be
torn out and rebuilt. However, at this point they are going to patch it
the best they can so that it will make it at least two or three more
years. He then noted that they will be starting on the Lewis Park
tennis courts tomorrow.
Mr. Keprios said that bids will be going out next week to rebuild the
tennis courts at Utley Park, Pamela Park and Weber Park. He stated that
if we receive reasonable bids, we would like to do all three.
D. Council Meeting Minutes - Mr. Montgomery indicated that he liked
receiving the City Council minutes in his packet. He noted that it gave
him a better feel of what is going on and asked if the Park Board could
keep receiving the City Council minutes. Mr. Keprios noted yes, staff
will be sure to include copies of their minutes in the Park Board
packet.
E. Community Gardens - Ms. Hall asked if the neighbors have okayed the
community gardens. Mr. Keprios indicated that letters to the
neighborhood residents have not yet been sent.
F. Garden Park Parking - Ms. Bennett asked if the lines could be
remarked on the parking lot at Garden Park and possibly some other
parks. Mr. Keprios indicated that it is on the Engineering Department's
agenda of things to get done as soon as they can.
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
Dave Crowther MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:55 P.M. Jim Fee
SECONDED THE MOTION. MEETING ADJOURNED
10
CITY OF EDINA
PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
MEMORANDUM
DATE: May 4, 1995
TO: All Park Board Members
FROM: John Keprios, Directo �v
SUBJECT: Staff report for upcoming Park Board meeting
Enclosed you should find the following items:
1. May 9, 1995, Park Board Agenda.
2. Minutes from April 11, 1995, Park Board meeting.
3. Senior Citizen Center annual report information.
4. Letters received concerning ESA proposal.
S. Copy of letter mailed to Lewis Park area residents.
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 in case last minute
items come up between now and the Park Board meeting, plus,
cover any other concerns of Park Board members and/or
attendees.
SENIOR CITIZEN CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
Susan Weigle, Senior Center Director, will be present to give a
brief review of the Edina Senior Citizen Center annual report.
Ms. Weigle's report will cover 1994-95 programs, the senior bus
and the senior center questionnaire.
No Edina Park Board action is requested on this agenda item.
EDINA SOCCER ASSOCIATION PROPOSAL FOR LEWIS PARK
A copy of the enclosed letter of information was mailed to all
residents within approximately 500 feet of Lewis Park. The Park and
Recreation Department office has received many calls responding to the
letter and each caller has been asked to submit their concerns in
writing to the Edina Park Board and/or attend the May Park Board
meeting. All letters received as of May 4, 1995, have been
photocopied and are included in this mailing. Any letters that are
received after that point will be photocopied and distributed at the
Park Board meeting.
Since the April Park Board meeting, staff has consulted with the Edina
Engineering Department regarding the feasibility of converting the
bandy rink into a soccer field. It is the Engineering Department's
professional opinion that the bandy field could be developed into a
playable soccer field at a cost of approximately $40,000. This cost
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would include proper grading, seeding and irrigation. The Engineering
Department suspects that there may be a slow leak in a water main pipe
in Lewis Park and they plan to soon take necessary measures to correct
the problem. It is the Engineering Department's opinion that the
unstable soils beneath the field have been compressed due to earlier
filling. Therefore, the ability to construct a soccer field is much
more feasible than it was during the park's original construction in
the late 19701s.
At the April Park Board meeting, it was suggested to consider the
possibility of playing soccer and bandy on the same site by planting
annual grasses and clover. To address this concept, I have talked
with professionals with experience in this area. Michael Schmidt,
Director of Maintenance Operations for the Minneapolis Park Board,
shared his experience with trying to play soccer and/or softball on
fields that have been flooded for ice skating in the winter months.
In short, Mr. Schmidt suggests that it is virtually impossible to
provide quality or even safe turf for soccer where the field was
previously used as a skating facility. The Minneapolis Park Board has
recently hired a professional firm, Brauer and Associates, to study
their athletic field conditions and make recommendations.
In addition, I have talked to Vince Cockriel, Edina Park Foreman, who
recalls having tried planting annual rye grass on the Lewis Park bandy
field four years ago. The grass did not germinate mainly due to lack
of irrigation. Mr. Cockriel will be at the Park Board meeting to give
his professional opinion about the feasibility of trying to use the
bandy field for soccer and bandy.
I have also discussed this matter with our Turf Restoration
Consultant, John Hopko. Mr. Hopko will also be present at the Park
Board meeting to share his experiences and professional opinion
regarding this concept.
If the bandy field area could annually be maintained to accommodate
both soccer and bandy, my recommendation would be to try both.
According to all the professionals with years of experience in this
area, it is simply not possible to provide safe turf on grounds that
have been flooded during the winter months. Even so, Mr. Cockriel and
Mr. Hopko will both be present to explain what is involved in
restoring a turf area that has been used for ice skating.
As for the issue of parking, there are a total of 106 parking spaces
between the two parking lots. Of the 106 spaces, six of them are
handicapped parking only spaces. There are a total of 72 spaces in
the east lot and 34 spaces in the southwest lot in Lewis Park. There
should be adequate parking spaces for park users for most of the
time. In some cases, on street parking may be needed, which is the
norm at other soccer field sites, such as, Strachauer Park, Pamela
Park, and Weber Park. It was also suggested at the April meeting that
Todd Park be considered as a soccer field site, however, there are
currently no parking lots in Todd Park. All parking for that park
must be done on neighborhood streets.
As you will notice in all the enclosed letters from neighboring
residents, they do not favor the ESA's proposal. Their concerns are
primarily parking (legal and illegal parking), increase in scheduled
athletic events, noise, inadequate restroom facilities, loss of a very
desirable large sheet of ice for general skating and the loss of
serenity that comes with unusable turf areas. Several Lewis Park
neighborhood residents will likely be at the May meeting to voice
their concerns that may even include additional issues that are not
listed above.
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The Edina Soccer Association's proposal will not be an easy issue to
resolve. As with several Park and Recreation issues, not everyone can
® be satisfied regardless of the outcome. In dealing with park
facilities owned by the taxpayers of Edina, the question becomes, what
is best for the majority of residents of Edina and the community as a
whole. The issue is obviously more than soccer vs. bandy. If there
was an option that would satisfy all interested parties, that would be
the best of all worlds. In my opinion, no such option exists. I do
not believe that there is an affordable option that will satisfy all
parties involved.
As staff, it is our job to research the alternatives, present the
facts, and suggest a recommendation for your consideration. Please
know that you, as Park Board members, do not have to necessarily agree
with staff's recommendations. Your job is not to satisfy staff, but
rather, to best serve the community of Edina. Hopefully with
sufficient information from staff and input from the community, you
will be able to resolve this issue with confidence.
With that in mind, staff would recommend that the Edina Park Board
accept the Edina Soccer Association's proposal for the following
reasons:
1) The proposal serves Edina residents and community as a whole.
2) Edina has done its part to promote and provide for the sport of
bandy and it is time for this "regional sport," which is comprised
of 90o non-resident adults, to be facilitated by another community.
3) Edina can continue to facilitate youth bandy on Edina's outdoor and
indoor hockey rinks.
4) It has long been the philosophy of the Edina Park Board to
facilitate the recreational needs of resident youths before (and at
the expense of) fulfilling the recreational/athletic needs of
resident and non-resident adults.
5) In my opinion, there is no better and reasonably affordable
alternative to facilitate the Edina Soccer Association's growing
program.
6) Since the early 19801s, the following bandy rinks have been created
to facilitate the adult and youth bandy program:
A) Lewis Park, Edina
B) Bohanon Park, Minneapolis
C) McCrae Park, Minneapolis
D) Goat Hill Park, Eagan
E) Dred Scott Park, Bloomington
F) Central Park, Roseville
G) Central Park, Shoreview
H) John Rose Minnesota Oval, Roseville
Of these eight sites, only two remain, Lewis Park and the John Rose
Minnesota Oval. The other six sites no longer exist. These six
sites were all discontinued mainly due to the expense involved in
providing a large ice facility for primarily non-resident players.
® 7) There is now a more "regional facility" available to facilitate
bandy on a user fee basis. I use the term "regional facility"
because the John Rose Minnesota Oval was funded in part by the
State of Minnesota because the facility was recognized as a
facility to serve "regional needs." Even so, the City of Roseville
owns the facility and pays the operating expenses.
OR
7�
8) It is staff's opinion that to continue to maintain a large sheet of
ice at Lewis Park simply for the sake of general skating would not
be fair to other neighborhood park residents (such as Strachauer
Park and Todd Park) who have requested and been denied outdoor
skating facilities due to lack of available resources. In
addition, the general skating rink at Lewis Park (north of the
warming house) is actually the same size or larger than other
general skating rinks at other parks, such as, Highlands Park,
Normandale Park, York Park and Weber Park. Lastly, Edina currently
provides the best outdoor pleasure skating facility in the Twin
Cities area at Centennial Lakes Park. The outdoor ice at
Centennial Lakes Park is maintained with an ice resurfacer, and the
beautiful Centrum Building has fireplaces indoor and one outdoor
and is equipped with a concessions stand and accessible restroom
facilities. In addition, to date there have not been any hockey
sticks or pucks on the Centennial Lakes ice surface to interfere
with the general skater.
9) Lewis Park is classified as a "community playfield park," which is
defined in the Jupiter And Beyond Report as follows:
"..as a park greater than 20 acres (21.04 acres to be exact) that
is designed to provide facilities for diverse recreational
activities for young people and adults, although a section is also
typically set aside for smaller neighborhood children."
The master plan for this park has always included three large
soccer/football fields for scheduled activities, which is part of
the purposeful use of a community playfield park. I understand and
appreciate the neighbors of Lewis Park not wanting more scheduled
activities in Lewis Park, however, this particular park is designed
to serve the leisure needs and desires of a larger segment of the
community than just the immediate neighborhood.
Please know that my recommendation is made with mixed emotions because
I believe that bandy is an excellent life-long team sport for youth
and adults. I share the same pride as you in the fact that Edina took
the lead to introduce bandy to America and get it established. If
there were no other alternatives for bandy, staff's recommendation
would be different. The fact is that there is a state-of-the-art
world-class outdoor bandy facility in Roseville to serve the program's
needs. Bandy players will undoubtedly have to pay more to play their
sport if limited to the Oval. I can understand the financial hardship
that bandy players may experience, however, hockey players, figure
skaters and speed skaters have become accustomed to paying their share
of the expense to use facilities. Hopefully, bandy will continue to
grow in spite of the increased costs.
One final thought, I suggest that the Edina Park Board may want to
consider delaying action on this matter until the June meeting for two
reasons:
1) Seek more input from other residents who do not live near the park.
2) Request staff to research and provide more information regarding
other areas of concern to the Park Board.
It is staff's recommendation that Park Board action should not be
delayed any later than the June meeting to allow sufficient time to
implement ESA's proposal or begin planning for the 1995-96 Bandy
Program.