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2016-08-08 Park Board Packet
Draft Minutes☒ Approved Minutes☐ Approved Date: Click here to enter a date. Minutes City Of Edina, Minnesota Park Board Edina City Hall, Council Chambers July 12, 2016 I. Call To Order Vice Chair Good called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. II. Roll Call Answering roll call were Vice Chair Good, Members McAwley, Dahlien, Meyer, Strother, Gieseke, Miller, Nelson and Student Member Lohani. Absent were Chair McCormick and Student Member Crist. Staff present: Liaison Ann Kattreh, Assistant Parks & Recreation Director Susan Faus, Administrative Support Specialist Janet Canton and Braemar Golf Course General Manager Joe Abood. III. Approval Of Meeting Agenda Vice Chair Good suggested they move Item V.C., the Rosland Park Playground Equipment Design, to Item V.B., and move Item V.B., the Braemar Park Winter Recreation Facility Update, to Item V.C. Motion by Gieseke to approve the July 12, 2016 agenda with the changes made. Motion was seconded by Vice Chair Good. Motion carried. IV. Approval Of Meeting Minutes Motion made by Miller to approve the May 10, 2016 minutes. Motion seconded by Gieseke. Motion carried. V. Special Recognitions and Presentations A. Mountain Bike Community Presentation Bruce Freeman, 6112 Eden Prairie Rd., gave a power point presentation to the Park Board regarding mountain biking. Bill Biegarnek indicated he is a member of MORC (Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists Association) which is a non-profit association responsible for all of the off-road trails in the Twin Cities area and he is here to support trail growth. Mr. Biegarnek gave a power point presentation on the demographics of mountain biking. Draft Minutes☒ Approved Minutes☐ Approved Date: Click here to enter a date. Leigh Mazion, coach of the Edina Mountain Bike Team, gave a brief history on the Edina Mountain Bike Team. He also talked about what their season consists of and went through their statistics. Lydia Reiner and Frank Delaney, co-captains of the Edina Mountain Bike Team, each explained why they got involved in mountain biking and why they wanted to join the team. Park Board members asked questions and had discussions. Liaison Kattreh noted this item will be on the Park Board’s August agenda and at that time she would like for the Park Board to make a recommendation to the City Council. VI. Community Comment None VII. Reports/Recommendations A. Braemar Golf Update Joe Abood, Braemar Golf Course General Manager, informed the Park Board of the following updates at Braemar Golf Course: • Discussed the new Braemar Golf Course logo • Discussed the grand opening to be held the first week in August • Gave an update on the Master Plan • Received a favorable bid that will go to the City Council at the July 19 council meeting • Noted construction will start in October Park Board members asked questions and had discussions. B. Rosland Park Playground Replacement Design Assistant Parks & Recreation Director Faus introduced Harlan Lehman from Minnesota Wisconsin Playground. Member Nelson gave a presentation on the Rosland Park Playground Replacement Design to the Park Board. Liaison Kattreh went through the history and process of how they got to where they currently are with the replacement design. Draft Minutes☒ Approved Minutes☐ Approved Date: Click here to enter a date. Motion was made by Strother to recommend to the City Council the purchase and installation of the Rosland Park playground as designed by Minnesota Wisconsin Playground. Motion was seconded by McAwley. Ayes: Good, McAwley, Dahlien, Strother, Gieseke, Miller, Nelson Nays: Meyer Motion carried. Park Board members asked questions and had discussions. C. Braemar Park Winter Recreation Facility Update Liaison Kattreh gave an update of where they are at in the process for the Braemar Park Winter Recreation Facility including the following: • An open house will be held on July 13 at 7 p.m. at Edina Public Works • Park Board will be asked to make a recommendation to the City Council at the August Park Board meeting • A public hearing will be held at the Sept. 7 City Council meeting Park Board members asked questions and had discussions. VIII. Correspondence And Petitions Vice Chair Good acknowledged the Park Board’s receipt of various correspondences. IX. Chair And Member Comments • Vice Chair Good reminded the Park Board that the August Park Board meeting and retreat will be held on Monday, Aug. 8 at 5 p.m. at Braemar Golf Course. There will be a tour, dinner, lawn games, annual photo and meeting. X. Staff Comments • A presentation to the City Council regarding the selection of a master plan consultant is planned for July 19 City Council meeting. • There will be a ribbon-cutting for the Pickleball courts at Rosland Park on Wednesday, July 20 at 4 p.m. • Gerry Greene has resigned from his position on the Park Board. This vacancy will continue until the annual appointments next year. Draft Minutes☒ Approved Minutes☐ Approved Date: Click here to enter a date. • Braemar Arena will be hosting the Da Beauty League which consists of NHL players. The league will play on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:55 p.m., 7:20 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. from July 12 through Aug. 9. Tickets can be purchased at Braemar Arena. XI. Adjournment Motion made by Nelson to adjourn the July 12, 2016 meeting at 8:59 p.m. Motion seconded by Dahlien. Motion carried. August 8, 2016 Park Board Eric Boettcher, Recreation Supervisor Weber Park Playground Replacement Design Information / Background: The current playground structure at Weber Park was designed and installed in 1997. The city has $375,000 budgeted in CIP funds to replace the playground structures at Rosland and Weber parks in 2016. $200,000 was budgeted for Rosland Park and $175,000 for Weber Park. The original $175,000 was budgeted for Weber Park to include a rubber poured-in-place safety surface and to potentially relocate the playground. After meeting with the neighborhood on multiple occasions, it was determined that the residents preferred the engineered wood fiber safety surface. This reduced the overall budget need for Weber Park. We were able to replace and expand the existing playground for $100,000. This still added roughly 400 square feet to the playground and provided an ADA accessible path and parking spot. Weber Park is one of our most active neighborhood parks. The primary focus of the replacement is a playground designed to meet the needs of the community park. The key components of the design is to utilize the current location of the playground structure, use wood fiber for the safety surface and provide features that would accommodate children ages 2-12. The playground will meet ADA requirements for accessibility. Other elements that were considered in the playground design were the actual play features, play value, safety, accessibility and cost. The playground vendor selected to work on the project is Northland Recreation. This company sells Little Tikes playground equipment. It is the same design group that designed the playgrounds at Pamela and McGuire parks. This vendor was selected for several reasons: • Little Tikes equipment is listed on the National Joint Power Alliance (NJPA) contract so we are guaranteed the lowest pricing. • City staff has been very pleased with the service and quality of the equipment. REPORT / RECOMMENDATION Page 2 • Staff has received positive feedback from community members on the crdativity and play value of the Little Tike playground equipment. Staff worked with the vendor on the initial playground design. The design was then presented to the community at a variety of neighborhood events. Feedback was received from residents at the Eco Fair on Sunday, April 24. The vendor then made adjustments to the plan based on that community input. The design was then brought to Morningside Neighborhood Association Steering Committee meeting on Monday, June 6 and to a public meeting for the Morningside Neighborhood on Monday, June 20 to get additional feedback. The vendor and staff made the next set of changes to the design based on the received feedback. The revised design was displayed at a community open house on July 12, 2016. Members of the community who live 1,000 feet from Weber Park were invited to share ideas and provide feedback; this feedback is what allowed us to create the current design. Some of the changes to the plan, based on the July 12 open house, are as follows: • Taller/higher climbers – now have 6 • Raft swing - added • Longer zipline – now is 20’ long with decks on each end • Higher center structure – now is 8’ high which is as high as they can go with this structure • More motion events – wobble sphere, zip line and raft swing • Benches – added one The proposed design offers play features that provide a safe and fun experience for ages 2-5 while providing some challenges for ages 5-12. Potential Project Timeline: Community Presentation – Eco Fair April 24, 2016 Community Presentation – Morningside Neighborhood Association Steering Committee June 6, 2016 Community Presentation June 20, 2016 Community Open House July 12, 2016 Re-design by Playground Vendor July 2016 Park Board Final Design Approval Aug. 8, 2016 City Council Request for Purchase Sept. 6, 2016 Removal of Existing Playground Mid-September 2016 Begin Playground Installation Late-September 2016 REPORT / RECOMMENDATION Page 3 Project Completion End of October 2016 Action Requested: Approve the design of the Weber Park playground and recommend to the City Council its purchase and installation and related ADA improvements by Northland Recreation. QUOTATION - NJPA CONTRACT To: City of Edina 4801 50th St. Edina, MN 55424 Project: Weber Park Date: August 1, 2016 Contact: Susan Faus Phone: 952-927-8861 Cell: Fax: Email: sfaus@Edinamn.gov We are pleased to provide the following quotation on items supplied by Little Tikes Commercial Play Systems Qty. Item Description Unit Price Extension 1 Little Tikes Custom Kid Builder for 5 -12 Year Old Area. $54,523.00 Includes: Maxplay 4 Unit Swing, 1- Wobble Sphere, Team Swing,Stand & Spin and Sign. Installation included. 1 Little Tikes Custom PlayBuilder for 2-5 Year Old Area. $19,380.00 Includes: 2-5 Sign and 2 - 6' Vinyl benches w/ back. Installation included. 310 Cu.Yds. Woodfiber Resilient Surfacing - installed $7,386.00 13 Rubber swing and slide mats installed $2,856.00 150 L/F New 5' Wide Accessible Concrete Sidewalk and 38' L/F $15,855.00 of new concrete border to expand the existing play area site. Includes: Removing existing concrete curb, and excavating 770 sq.ft. for the new expansion area. Restoration around new 5' sidewalk by city staff. Removal of existing pea gravel resilient surfacing by city * Above based on Manufacturer's Standard Warranty Sub Total $100,000.00 Freight Included Tax 6.875% Not Included Total $100,000.00 IMPORTANT INFORMATION: ♦ Quotation is valid for: 30 Days ♦ Freight based on shipment to Edina, MN ♦ Shipment can currently be made in 3 - 4 Weeks upon order entry ♦ Terms: 30 Days Net Invoice. ♦ Pricing based on above quantities – any changes may require a revised quotation. ♦ Orders will be placed upon receipt of a Purchase Order or your signed acceptance of this quotation. ♦ Make Purchase Orders to PlayPower LT Farmington – P.O. Box 204713 – Dallas, TX 75320-4713 Thank You! Northland Recreation, LLC Mike DorseyMike DorseyMike DorseyMike Dorsey Project Manager ACCEPTED BY:____________________________________ DATE:_______________ Phone 651.815.4097 I Fax 414.395.8538 I Email info@northlandrec.com 10085 Bridgewater Bay I Woodbury, MN 55129 I Offices in Woodbury, MN + West Allis, WI Little Tikes Commercial and Northland Recreation, LLC. greatly appreciates your consideration of our proposal. If it is your desire to purchase any or all of the items listed in this proposal, we kindly ask that you sign your acceptance on both pages of this quotation and complete the following information to insure timely and accurate order entry. Bill to address: (if different from quote) Ship to address: (if different from quote) _________________________ __________________________ _________________________ __________________________ _________________________ __________________________ _________________________ __________________________ Delivery Contact: ____________________________ Phone Number(s): ____________________________ ____________________________ Desired Delivery Date: ____________________________ * Please Note: Many factors are involved in the manufacturer’s actual ship dates. We will make every attempt to accommodate your preferred date. Purchase Order # (if applicable): ____________________ * Please Note: Purchase orders to be made out to PlayPower LT Farmington, Inc. Is this project exempt from sales tax? ________ * If YES, please include a completed Certificate of Exemption Color Selections (if applicable): Additional Comments: Terms: O I / We understand that all accounts are payable to PlayPower LT Farmington Inc. according to the terms shown on each invoice, and if not paid on or before said date, are then delinquent. I / We agree to pay any and all service charges added each month to past due invoices. Terms are Net 30 days upon delivery with approved credit. O Unless notified in writing to the contrary, all charges are due and payable in full at: PlayPower LT Farmington, Inc. – P.O. Box 204713 – Dallas, TX 75320-4713 O Credit approval may be required to complete this order. O Additional charges may apply for applicable sales tax, extra unloading time, incorrect delivery addresses, and/or cancellation of delivery without 24 hours prior notice. O The Terms and Conditions of this signed quotation shall prevail over any inconsistent terms and conditions of a purchase order, contract and / or confirmation related to this project. ACCEPTED BY:____________________________________ DATE:_______________ Phone 651.815.4097 I Fax 414.395.8538 I Email info@northlandrec.com 10085 Bridgewater Bay I Woodbury, MN 55129 I Offices in Woodbury, MN + West Allis, WI This Quote shall not become a binding contract until signed and delivered by both Customer and PlayPower LT Farmington (“PPLT”). To submit this offer, please sign below and forward a complete signed copy of this Quote to Northland Recreation, LLC. or directly to PPLT Sales Administrator (fax: 573-760-7454 or outdoordes@ltcps.com). Upon acceptance, PPLT will return a fully-signed copy of the Quote to Customer via fax or email. THIS QUOTE IS LIMITED TO AND GOVERNED BY THE TERMS CONTAINED HEREIN. PPLT objects to any other terms proposed by Customer, in writing or otherwise, as material alterations, and all such proposed terms shall be void. Customer authorizes PPLT to ship the Equipment and agrees to pay PPLT the total amount specified. Shipping terms are FOB the place of shipment via authorized carrier designated by PPLT. Payment terms are Net-30 days from invoice date with approved credit and all charges are due and payable in full at PlayPower LT Farmington, Inc. P.O. Box 204713 – Dallas, TX 75320-4713, unless notified otherwise by PPLT in writing. Customer agrees to pay all additional service charges for past due invoices. Customer must provide proper tax exemption certificates to PPLT, and shall promptly pay and discharge all otherwise applicable taxes, license fees, levies and other impositions on the Equipment at its own expense. CUSTOMER HEREBY SUBMITS ITS OFFER TO PURCHASE THE EQUIPMENT ACCORDING TO THE TERMS STATED IN THIS QUOTE AND SUBJECT TO FINAL APPROVAL BY PPLT. ________________________________ _________________________________ ________________________________ Submitted by Printed Name & Title Date THE FOREGOING QUOTE AND OFFER ARE HEREBY APPROVED AND ACCEPTED BY PPLT. ________________________________ _________________________________ ________________________________ Submitted by Printed Name & Title Date ADDITIONAL TERMS & CONDITIONS OF SALE: 1: Use & Maintenance: Customer agrees to regularly inspect and maintain Equipment, and to provide, inspect and maintain appropriate safety surfacing under and around the Equipment, in accordance with PPLT’s product literature and the most current Consumer Product Safety Commission Handbook for Public Playground Safety. 2: Default, Remedies & Delinquency Charges: Customer’s failure to pay any invoice when due, or its failure to otherwise comply with the Terms of this Quote, shall constitute a default under all unsatisfied invoices (“Event of Default”). Upon an Event of Default, PPLT shall have all remedies available to it at law or equity, including, without limitation, all remedies afforded a secured creditor under the Uniform Commercial Code. Customer agrees to assist its repossession of the Equipment and Customer expressly waives all rights to possess the Equipment after an Event of Default. All remedies are cumulative and not alternative, and no exercise by PPLT of a remedy will prohibit or waive the exercise of any other remedy. Customer shall pay all reasonable attorneys’ fees plus any cost of collection incurred by PPLT in enforcing its rights hereunder. Subject to any limitations under law, Customer shall pay to PPLT as liquidated damages, and not as a penalty, an amount equal to 1.5% per month of any payment that is delinquent in such month and is not received by PPLT within ten (10) days after the date on which due. 3: Limitation of Warranty / Indemnity: PPLT MAKES NO EQUIPMENT WARRANTIES EXCEPT FOR THOSE STANDADRD WARRANTIES ISSUED WITH THE EQUIPMENT, WHICH ARE INCORPORATED HEREIN BY THIS REFERENCE. PPLT SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND ANY LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. CUSTOMER AGREES TO DEFEND, INDEMNIFY AND SAVE PPLT HARMLESS FROM ALL CLAIMS OF ANY KIND FOR DAMAGES OF ANY KIND ARISING OUT OF A CUSTOMER’S ALTERATION OF THE EQUIPMENT, ITS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN THE EQUIPMENT, ITS FAILURE TO PROPERLY SUPERVISE EQUIPMENT USE, OR ITS FAILURE TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN APPROPRIATE TYPES AND DEPTHS OF SAFETY SURFACING BENEATH AND AROUND THE EQUIPMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH PPLT’S INSTALLATION AND OWNERS’S MANUAL AND THE MOST CURRENT CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION HANDBOOK FOR PUBLIC PLAYGROUND SAFETY. 4: Restrictions: Until all amounts due hereunder are paid in full, Customer shall not: (i) permit the Equipment to be levied upon or attached under any legal process; (ii) transfer title to the Equipment or any of Customer’s rights therein; or (iii) remove or permit the removal of the Equipment to any location not specified in this Quote. 5: Purchase Money Security Interest: Customer hereby grants, pledges and assigns to PPLT, and PPLT hereby reserves a purchase money security interest in, the Equipment in order to secure the payment and performance in full of all Customer’s obligations hereunder. Customer agrees that PPLT may file one or more financing statements, in order to allow it to perfect, acquire and maintain a superior security interest in the Equipment. 6: Choice of Law and Jurisdiction: All Agreements between Customer and PPLT shall be interpreted, and the parties’ obligations shall be governed, by the laws of the State of Missouri without reference to its choice of law provisions. Customer hereby consents to the personal jurisdiction of the state and federal courts located in the city and county of St. Louis, Missouri. 7: Title; Risk of Loss; Insurance: PPLT Retains full title to all Equipment until full payment is received by PPLT. Customer assumes all risk of loss or destruction of or damage to the Equipment by reason of theft, fire, water, or any other cause, and the occurrence of any such casualty shall not relieve the Customer from its obligations hereunder and under any invoices. Until all amounts due hereunder are paid in full, Customer shall insure the Equipment against all such losses and casualties. 8: Waiver; Invalidity: PPLT may waive a default hereunder, or under any invoice or other agreement between Customer and PPLT, or cure such a default at Customer’s expense, but shall have no obligation to do either. No waiver shall be deemed to have taken place unless it is in writing, signed by PPLT. Any one waiver shall not constitute a waiver of other defaults or the same kind of default at another time, or a forfeiture of any rights provided to PPLT hereunder or under any invoice. The invalidity of any portion of this Quote shall not affect the force and effect of the remaining valid portions hereof. 9: Entire Agreement; Amendment; Binding Nature: This fully-executed Quote, as supplemented by Change Orders and invoices containing exact amounts of estimates provided herein, constitutes the complete and exclusive agreement between the parties. A Change Order is a written instrument signed by the Customer and PPLT stating their agreement as to any amendment in the Terms of this Quote. Customer acknowledges that Change Orders may result in delays and additional costs. The parties agree that all Change Orders shall include appropriate adjustments in price and time frames relating to any requested amendments. Upon full execution, this Quote shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their successors and assigns. 10: Counterparts; Electronic Transmission: This Quote, any invoice, and any other agreement between the parties, may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall constitute an original. The facsimile or other electronic transmission of any signed original document, and retransmission of any signed facsimile or other electronic transmission, shall be the same as the transmission of an original. At the request of either party, the parties will confirm facsimile or other electronically transmitted signatures by signing an original document. August 8, 2016 Park Board Ann Kattreh Parks & Recreation Director Braemar Winter Recreation Feasibility Study Report Information / Background: At the May 17 City Council meeting, the City Council authorized staff to proceed with a financial and trail feasibility study for cross-country ski trails and snow tubing at Braemar Park. On May 18 SEH, Morton Trails and RRC began work on the feasibility studies. Noah Brautigam from Morton Trails immediately began working onsite designing the trail. The Morton Trails proposal includes a 3km trail with machine-made snow. At the June 7 City Council/Park Board Work Session, Dave Belin, RRC Associates, presented a preliminary financial feasibility report. Paul Pasko from SEH presented the trail alignment proposal along with a detailed description and photographs of the Hyland Lake Park Reserve (Hyland) cross- country ski trails and snowmaking infrastructure. At the June 21 City Council meeting, the following additional information was presented: Pro Forma Without Snow Tubing One option briefly discussed at the City Council work session was the opportunity to add Nordic skiing, but not snow tubing. While staff and the consulting team believe that it would be a popular option for families and drive additional revenue and visitors to the park, it is possible to separate the operations, although the Nordic-only option would require additional subsidy. For some operational expenses the allocation of expenses to Nordic is higher and for other expenses it is lower. It turns out the total operating expense for Nordic-only is about 50% of the total operating expense for the combined operation, even though each line item expense was allocated individually. The short season for Nordic-only never reaches operating profitability, while the long season is barely in the red by years four and five, but never reaches positive cash flow. STAFF REPORT Page 2 Braemar Golf Course Operational Support The Winter Recreation pro formas include operational support from the golf enterprise which is estimated at approximately $50,000. This creates a hybrid of an enterprise and general fund operation. Staff does not recommend including the winter recreation area as part of the golf enterprise budget but, instead, part of the Parks & Recreation general fund budget. If the $50,000 in Braemar Golf Course staff time that is utilized for the winter recreation area is coded from the golf staffing budget to the winter recreation staffing budget, the winter recreation area would operate cash flow negatively and would require tax subsidy to operate, similar to the outdoor ice rinks. The $50,000 subsidy to cover the operating support from the golf course is included in the levy estimates below in the Tax Impact section. RRC provided financial pro formas factoring both 10-week and 12-week seasons. Historical weather information shows that on most years the winter recreation area could be operational by Dec. 20. Interest in outdoor winter recreation begins to diminish when weather begins to warm up at the end of the winter, when the natural snow melts and snow turns to rain. A closing date would likely fall in the range of the end of February to the middle of March. Tax Impact The tax impact of a $3 million bond sale and $50,000 annual operating levy would be approximately .9 – 1.4% in addition to the proposed 4.9% increase in the 2016-2017 budget. For a median single- family home valued at $457,300, the additional tax would be approximately $15 - 20 per year. Term of bond repayment could be 10 years (1.4% increase), 15 years (1.1% increase) or 20 years (.9% increase). This rate is an estimate only and actual impact may go up or down slightly based on final project costs, interest rates, repayment term of the bond, etc. Budget Estimate The preliminary construction cost estimate is $2,906,642.43 million. Hyland winter recreation area has 5km of machine-made snow and cost approximately $5 million to construct. This cost estimate includes design and feasibility studies, construction and bid documents, construction observation, trail clearing, steel irrigation pipe, steel pipe corrosion inhibitor, computer controlled pumps, control cabinets, snowmaking equipment, grooming equipment, electrical for controls, trail lights and snowmaking on the trail and a potential small pump control building. The estimate also includes a 15% construction contingency. Our current well building will be utilized for pumps and controls if size and access for equipment installation and maintenance are adequate. Why Now? The renovation of Braemar Golf Course and downsizing the course from 27 to 18 holes convert current hole #21 on the Clunie 9 to park land and creates access to the wooded hill on the east side STAFF REPORT Page 3 of Braemar Park. The ideal time to construct this trail and snow making infrastructure is while the golf course is under construction. In order to construct the trail, water pipe, electrical and pump infrastructure efficiently, two golf holes, #10 and #11 on the east edge of the new golf course would be utilized for equipment installation and trail clearing removal during golf course construction. If the project is stopped, the Nordic trail could be constructed in future years with construction access only on the north end of the trail, but it would be significantly more expensive and more difficult than having access on both the north and south ends of the trail. The new hole #10, adjacent to the existing city well would be impacted with future construction of a winter trail with machine-made snow. Additionally, it would be a benefit to the golf enterprise and the Tin Fish restaurant to have a winter recreation area operational during the year when the golf course is closed for renovation. The golf enterprise receives 12% of the Tin Fish gross revenues. The Edina High School Nordic ski program may also lease space in the lower level of the clubhouse, raising additional revenue for the golf enterprise. City Council Direction At the June 21 City Council meeting, the City Council directed staff to continue to move forward with the feasibility study, conduct an Open House in July and add a Public Hearing to the schedule in September. The City Council also had a robust discussion about how this project fits into the overall capital spending priorities for the city. The City Council requested that in August, the Park Board receive a final feasibility study report and provide review and comment for the Sept. 7 City Council meeting. At the Sept. 7 City Council meeting, the council will be asked to direct staff to continue to move forward with construction and bid documents or to stop work on the project. The following schedule reflects the directives from the June 21 City Council meeting: Updated Project Timeline Summary Feasibility Study – Sound, Snow Overspray June/July and Financial Study Public Open House July 13 Park Board Review Aug. 8 Complete Study Aug. 19 City Council Public Hearing – Request Sept. 7 for plans, specs and bid doc preparation If directed by the City Council on Sept. 7, the following would be completed: City Council Bid Authorization Nov. 1 STAFF REPORT Page 4 Bid Project Nov. 2 – Dec. 2 Open bids Dec. 2 Bid Award Dec. 20, 2016 At a prior Park Board meeting there was a discussion about how this proposal fits into the newly completed Parks, Recreation & Trails Strategic Plan. The following direct and indirect references are contained in the plan. Parks, Open Spaces and Trails Implementation Framework • Strategy 4.2.2 - Provide infrastructure to support winter uses and trails into existing parks for a variety of skills and mobility uses that will bring more residents to parks in winter months. • Strategy 4.2.3 - Emphasize year-round opportunities at Braemar Park to cross pollinate with existing activities. Explore mountain biking trails, snow making for ski trails, biathlon training infrastructure and additional winter uses. Parks, Recreation & Trails Strategic Plan Key Recommendations Natural Resources & Sustainable Parks • #3 - Provide greater access to natural areas for passive recreation and interpretation Parks, Open Spaces & Trails • #6 - Provide more specialized facilities, dog parks, frisbee golf, etc. Recreation Programs • #1 - Provide a variety of programs that meet community needs and interests and maintain the highest level of excellence • #3 - Provide more community building/socialization programming Parks, Recreation & Trails Strategic Plan Guiding Principles • Promote community health and wellness by engaging all residents in our parks and programs. • Provide excellence and innovation in parks and recreation services to meet the needs of the community. • Develop creative funding opportunities and programming partnerships to ensure excellence in facilities, programs and financial stewardship for future generations. • Advance environmental stewardship and conservation to preserve and protect natural resources and build excellence through sustainability. • Connect residents to park facilities and their programs. STAFF REPORT Page 5 Open House – July 13 The City hosted an Open House on Wednesday, July 13 at 7 p.m. at the City of Edina Public Works facility. The latest feasibility study information was presented including sound and snow overspray studies. A mailing went out to almost 3,700 addresses in the SW quadrant of Edina, articles appeared in the Star Tribune and Edina Sun Current and the city utilized Nextdoor, City Extra and Social Media to promote this open house. Approximately 100 residents attended the Open House. Eighty seven attendees completed comment cards. The comments are attached. Email correspondence is included in the correspondence section of the Park Board packet. 90% Feasibility Study Report and Presentation The Feasibility Study Report (90% completed) is attached. Based on Park Board feedback, the report will be finalized and presented to the City Council on September 7. Paul Pasko from SEH will present the findings of the feasibility study to the Park Board. Action Requested Staff is requesting Review and Comment on the Braemar Park Winter Recreation proposal. Park Board Members will be asked to provide feedback including one of the following “Recommendations” for the Braemar Winter Recreation project. The Park Board’s review and comment will be forwarded to the City Council for their consideration. • Recommend As Proposed • Do Not Recommend • Recommend with Modifications or Changes Draft Feasibility Study Winter Recreation Area at Braemar Park Edina, Minnesota Executive Summary Introduction Financial and Market Assessment Design (See Figure 1) Executive Summary (Continued) Figure 1 – Design Executive Summary (Continued) Snowmaking Neighborhood Impacts Opinion of Probable Cost Schedule Feasibility Table of Contents Page 1.0 Financial and Market Assessment (Appendix A) ....................................................1 2.0 Existing Condition .....................................................................................................4 3.0 Design .........................................................................................................................7 Table of Contents (Continued) 4.0 Impacts .....................................................................................................................13 5.0 Public Involvement ..................................................................................................17 6.0 Schedule ...................................................................................................................17 List of Tables Table of Contents (Continued) List of Figures List of Appendices Feasibility Study Winter Recreation Area at Braemar Park 1.0 Financial and Market Assessment (Appendix A) 1.1 Introduction 1.2 Financial and Market Assessment 1.3 Nordic Skiing in Twin Cities 1.4 Snow Tubing in Twin Cities 1.5 Financial Analysis 1.5.1 Operational Inputs 1.5.2 Revenue Inputs 1.5.3 Expense Inputs 2.0 Existing Condition Figure 2 – Site Location 2.1 Infrastructure 2.1.1 Club House 2.1.2 Parking (Appendix I) 2.2 Project Area (see figure 3) Figure 3 – Site Analysis 2.2.1 Slope 2.2.2 Aspect 2.2.3 Tree/Vegetation 2.2.4 Wildlife 2.2.5 Golf 2.2.6 Neighborhood 2.3 Utilities 2.3.1 Power 2.3.2 Irrigation Well and Pump House 2.3.3 Natural Gas 3.0 Design 3.1 Cross Country Trails with Snowmaking Figure 4 – Two-way Trail Figure 5 – One-way Trails 3.2 Tubing with Snowmaking Figure 6 – Design 3.3 Cross Country Trails without Snowmaking Figure 7 – Natural Snow Ski Trail Concept 3.4 Other Recreational Activities 3.5 Snowmaking (Appendix B) 3.5.1 Ambient Conditions 3.5.2 Water 3.5.3 Power 3.5.4 Equipment 3.6 Site Improvements 3.6.1 Clearing and Grubbing 3.6.2 Earthwork 3.6.3 Irrigation Well and Pump House 3.6.4 Lighting 4.0 Impacts 4.1 Environmental 4.1.1 Tree Removal 4.2 Neighborhood 4.2.1 Snowmaking (Appendix G) Figure 8 – Snowmaking Overspray 4.2.2 Noise (Appendix C) Figure 9 – Noise Contours 4.2.3 Lighting Figure 10 – Light Contours 4.2.4 Traffic (Appendix I) 4.3 Permitting 4.3.1 Long Eared Bats 4.3.2 Building Permit 4.4 Opinion of Probable Cost (Appendix H) 5.0 Public Involvement 6.0 Schedule Production Schedule Key Milestones Description Date List of Tables Table 1 Snow Tubing opportunities in Twin Cities Area Facility Location Distance from Edina Cost Theodore Wirth Winter Recreation Area Golden Valley, MN 9.1 miles $12 for adults, $8 children Buck Hill Burnsville, MN 16 miles $17 per 2-hour session (day); $15 for 2-hour night session Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill Eagan, MN 16.8 miles $3 per person (no lift or tow) Elm Creek Park Reserve Maple Grove, MN 19.8 miles $15 for 2 hours, $3 for additional hours Green Acres Recreation Lake Elmo, MN 34 miles $16 for 2 hours Eko Backen Scandia, MN 47 miles $16 for 3 hours, $13 kids 4 to 12 Table 2 Nordic Ski Options in the Twin Cities Area Owner/ Manager of park/trail Facility Location Miles of trails KM of trails Distance from Edina (miles) Cost Owner/ Manager of park/trail Facility Location Miles of trails KM of trails Distance from Edina (miles) Cost Owner/ Manager of park/trail Facility Location Miles of trails KM of trails Distance from Edina (miles) Cost Table 3 Summary Financial Model – Short Season (70 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation Table 4 Summary Financial Model – Long Season (84 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation SUMMARY - SHORT SEASON Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Nordic Revenue $50,438 $54,073 $58,602 $62,597 $64,035 Tubing Revenue $69,240 $72,031 $74,802 $77,550 $80,272 Total Revenue $119,678 $126,104 $133,403 $140,147 $144,306 Operating Expenses $119,430 $121,819 $124,864 $127,362 $130,546 Operating Cash Flow $247 $4,284 $8,539 $12,785 $13,761 Operating Margin 0.2% 3.4% 6.4% 9.1% 9.5% Depreciation $18,576 $18,948 $18,948 $19,326 $19,326 Net Cash Flow -$18,329 -$14,663 -$10,409 -$6,541 -$5,566 Net Cash Flow Margin -15.3% -11.6% -7.8% -4.7% -3.9% SUMMARY - LONG SEASON Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Nordic Revenue $57,495 $61,386 $66,331 $70,616 $72,356 Tubing Revenue $81,480 $84,801 $88,099 $91,372 $94,616 Total Revenue $138,975 $146,187 $154,430 $161,988 $166,972 Operating Expenses $134,359 $137,046 $140,473 $143,282 $146,864 Operating Cash Flow $4,616 $9,141 $13,958 $18,706 $20,108 Operating Margin 3.3% 6.3% 9.0% 11.5% 12.0% Depreciation $18,576 $18,948 $18,948 $19,326 $19,326 Net Cash Flow -$13,960 -$9,807 -$4,990 -$620 $782 Net Cash Flow Margin -10.0% -6.7% -3.2% -0.4% 0.5% Table 5 Summary Financial Model – Short Season (70 Days) – NORDIC ONLY Braemar Park Winter Recreation Table 6 Summary Financial Model – Long Season (84 Days) – NORDIC ONLY Braemar Park Winter Recreation SUMMARY - SHORT SEASON NORDIC ONLY Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Nordic Revenue $50,438 $54,073 $58,602 $62,597 $64,035 Total Revenue $50,438 $54,073 $58,602 $62,597 $64,035 Operating Expenses $60,947 $62,166 $63,720 $64,995 $66,620 Operating Cash Flow -$10,510 -$8,094 -$5,119 -$2,398 -$2,585 Operating Margin -8.8% -6.4% -3.8% -1.7% -1.8% Depreciation $13,932 $14,211 $14,211 $14,495 $14,495 Net Cash Flow -$24,442 -$22,304 -$19,330 -$16,893 -$17,080 Net Cash Flow Margin -48.5% -41.2% -33.0% -27.0% -26.7% SUMMARY - LONG SEASON NORDIC ONLY Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Nordic Revenue $57,495 $61,386 $66,331 $70,616 $72,356 Total Revenue $57,495 $61,386 $66,331 $70,616 $72,356 Operating Expenses $66,400 $67,728 $69,422 $70,810 $72,580 Operating Cash Flow -$8,905 -$6,342 -$3,091 -$194 -$224 Operating Margin -6.4% -4.3% -2.0% -0.1% -0.1% Depreciation $13,932 $14,211 $14,211 $14,495 $14,495 Net Cash Flow -$22,837 -$20,553 -$17,301 -$14,689 -$14,719 Net Cash Flow Margin -39.7% -33.5% -26.1% -20.8% -20.3% Table 7 Financial Model Visits – Short Season (70 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation Year 12345 VISITS Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5 NORDIC Days of Operation 70 70 70 70 70 Nordic Day Tickets Nordic Ticket Price $9.00 $9.50 $10.00 $10.50 $11.00 Nordic Ticket Yield Ratio 65%64%63%62%61% Nordic Ticket Visits 1,750 1,838 1,929 2,026 2,127 Nordic Season Passes Nordic Pass Price $75.00 $77.00 $79.00 $81.00 $81.00 Nordic Pass Units 250 275 300 325 325 Visits per Pass 77777 Nordic Pass Visits 1,750 1,925 2,100 2,275 2,275 Nordic Visits (ticket + pass)3,500 3,763 4,029 4,301 4,402 Ratio: Nordic Visits per Day 50 54 58 61 63 TUBING Days of Operation 40 40 40 40 40 Tubing Price $12.00 $12.50 $13.00 $13.50 $14.00 Tubing Ticket Yield Ratio 60%59%58%57%56% Tubing Visits - Residents 6,000 6,120 6,242 6,367 6,495 Tubing Visits - Visitors 3,200 3,232 3,264 3,297 3,330 Tubing Visits (residents + visitors)9,200 9,352 9,507 9,664 9,825 Ratio: Tubing Visits per Day 230 234 238 242 246 Total Winter Visits 12,700 13,115 13,536 13,965 14,227 Table 8 Financial Model Revenue – Short Season (70 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation Year 12345 NORDIC Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5 Ticket Revenue $10,238 $11,172 $12,155 $13,188 $14,273 Pass Revenue $18,750 $21,175 $23,700 $26,325 $26,325 Race Revenue $14,500 $14,500 $14,500 $14,500 $14,500 Lesson Revenue $2,450 $2,573 $2,971 $3,120 $3,276 Ski Rental Revenue $2,100 $2,205 $2,778 $2,917 $3,063 Other Revenue (fat bike racing, youth clubs, e $2,400 $2,448 $2,497 $2,547 $2,598 F&B Revenue (Tin Fish) Total Nordic Revenue $50,438 $54,073 $58,602 $62,597 $64,035 Ratio: Nordic Revenue per Visit $14.41 $14.37 $14.54 $14.55 $14.55 Ratio: Nordic Revenue per Day $721 $772 $837 $894 $915 TUBING Ticket Revenue - Residents $43,200 $45,135 $47,068 $48,996 $50,918 Ticket Revenue - Visitors $23,040 $23,836 $24,613 $25,370 $26,107 Other Revenue (snowshoeing, etc.) $3,000 $3,060 $3,121 $3,184 $3,247 Total Tubing Revenue $69,240 $72,031 $74,802 $77,550 $80,272 Ratio: Tubing Revenue per Visit $7.53 $7.70 $7.87 $8.02 $8.17 Ratio: Tubing Revenue per Day $1,731 $1,801 $1,870 $1,939 $2,007 TOTAL WINTER REVENUE $119,678 $126,104 $133,403 $140,147 $144,306 Ratio: Total Revenue per Visit $9.42 $9.62 $9.86 $10.04 $10.14 Table 9 Financial Model Expenses – Short Season (70 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation Season Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5 EXPENSES Cost of Goods $2,064 $2,105 $2,158 $2,201 $2,256 Direct Labor $40,070 $40,872 $41,894 $42,731 $43,800 Maintenance & Repair $7,968 $8,127 $8,331 $8,497 $8,710 Other Direct $30,528 $31,139 $31,917 $32,555 $33,369 Electric Power/Fuel $12,941 $13,200 $13,530 $13,800 $14,145 Payroll Taxes/Benefits $8,832 $9,009 $9,234 $9,419 $9,654 Operating Expenses $102,403 $104,451 $107,063 $109,204 $111,934 Gross Profit $17,274 $21,652 $26,341 $30,943 $32,372 G&A $8,880 $9,058 $9,284 $9,470 $9,706 Marketing/Advertising $7,392 $7,540 $7,728 $7,883 $8,080 Property/Other Taxes $755 $770 $790 $805 $825 Insurance $0$0$0$0$0 Common Expenses $17,027 $17,368 $17,802 $18,158 $18,612 Net Operating Profit (EBITDA) $247 $4,284 $8,539 $12,785 $13,761 Operating Leases $1,440 $1,469 $1,469 $1,498 $1,498 Depreciation $18,576 $18,948 $18,948 $19,326 $19,326 Interest $6,804 $6,940 $6,940 $7,079 $7,079 Amortization $1,044 $1,065 $1,065 $1,086 $1,086 Post-EBITDA Expenses $27,864 $28,421 $28,421 $28,990 $28,990 Pre-Tax Profit -$27,617 -$24,137 -$19,882 -$16,205 -$15,229 Operating Profit Margin 0.2% 3.4% 6.4% 9.1% 9.5% Pre-Tax Profit Margin -23.1% -19.1% -14.9% -11.6% -10.6% Table 10 Financial Model Visits – Long Season (84 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation VISITS Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5 NORDIC Days of Operation 84 84 84 84 84 Nordic Day Tickets Nordic Ticket Price $9.00 $9.50 $10.00 $10.50 $11.00 Nordic Ticket Yield Ratio 65%64%63%62%61% Nordic Ticket Visits 2,100 2,205 2,315 2,431 2,553 Nordic Season Passes Nordic Pass Price $75.00 $77.00 $79.00 $81.00 $81.00 Nordic Pass Units 250 275 300 325 325 Visits per Pass 88888 Nordic Pass Visits 2,000 2,200 2,400 2,600 2,600 Nordic Visits (ticket + pass)4,100 4,405 4,715 5,031 5,153 Ratio: Nordic Visits per Day 49 52 56 60 61 TUBING Days of Operation 48 48 48 48 48 Tubing Price $12.00 $12.50 $13.00 $13.50 $14.00 Tubing Ticket Yield Ratio 60%59%58%57%56% Tubing Visits - Residents 7,450 7,599 7,751 7,906 8,064 Tubing Visits - Visitors 3,450 3,485 3,519 3,555 3,590 Tubing Visits (residents + visitors)10,900 11,084 11,270 11,461 11,654 Ratio: Tubing Visits per Day 227 231 235 239 243 Total Winter Visits 15,000 15,489 15,986 16,492 16,807 Table 11 Financial Model Revenue – Long Season (84 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation NORDIC Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5 Ticket Revenue $12,285 $13,406 $14,586 $15,826 $17,128 Pass Revenue $18,750 $21,175 $23,700 $26,325 $26,325 Race Revenue $17,400 $17,400 $17,400 $17,400 $17,400 Lesson Revenue $2,940 $3,087 $3,565 $3,744 $3,931 Ski Rental Revenue $2,520 $2,646 $3,334 $3,501 $3,676 Other Revenue (fat bike racing, etc) $3,600 $3,672 $3,745 $3,820 $3,897 F&B Revenue (Tin Fish) Total Nordic Revenue $57,495 $61,386 $66,331 $70,616 $72,356 Ratio: Nordic Revenue per Visit $14.02 $13.94 $14.07 $14.04 $14.04 Ratio: Nordic Revenue per Day $684 $731 $790 $841 $861 TUBING Ticket Revenue - Residents $53,640 $56,043 $58,442 $60,837 $63,223 Ticket Revenue - Visitors $24,840 $25,698 $26,536 $27,352 $28,146 Other Revenue $3,000 $3,060 $3,121 $3,184 $3,247 Total Tubing Revenue $81,480 $84,801 $88,099 $91,372 $94,616 Ratio: Tubing Revenue per Visit $7.48 $7.65 $7.82 $7.97 $8.12 Ratio: Tubing Revenue per Day $1,698 $1,767 $1,835 $1,904 $1,971 TOTAL WINTER REVENUE $138,975 $146,187 $154,430 $161,988 $166,972 Table 12 Financial Model Expenses – Long Season (84 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation Season Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5 EXPENSES Cost of Goods $2,322 $2,368 $2,428 $2,476 $2,538 Direct Labor $45,079 $45,981 $47,130 $48,073 $49,275 Maintenance & Repair $8,964 $9,143 $9,372 $9,559 $9,798 Other Direct $34,344 $35,031 $35,907 $36,625 $37,540 Electric Power/Fuel $14,558 $14,850 $15,221 $15,525 $15,913 Payroll Taxes/Benefits $9,936 $10,135 $10,388 $10,596 $10,861 Operating Expenses $115,204 $117,508 $120,445 $122,854 $125,926 Gross Profit $23,771 $28,680 $33,985 $39,134 $41,047 G&A $9,990 $10,190 $10,445 $10,653 $10,920 Marketing/Advertising $8,316 $8,482 $8,694 $8,868 $9,090 Property/Other Taxes $850 $867 $888 $906 $929 Insurance $0$0$0$0$0 Common Expenses $19,156 $19,539 $20,027 $20,428 $20,938 Net Operating Profit (EBITDA) $4,616 $9,141 $13,958 $18,706 $20,108 Operating Leases $1,440 $1,469 $1,469 $1,498 $1,498 Depreciation $18,576 $18,948 $18,948 $19,326 $19,326 Interest $6,804 $6,940 $6,940 $7,079 $7,079 Amortization $1,044 $1,065 $1,065 $1,086 $1,086 Post-EBITDA Expenses $27,864 $28,421 $28,421 $28,990 $28,990 Pre-Tax Profit -$23,248 -$19,280 -$14,463 -$10,284 -$8,881 Operating Profit Margin 3.3%6.3%9.0% 11.5% 12.0% Pre-Tax Profit Margin -16.7% -13.2% -9.4% -6.3% -5.3% Appendix A RRC Associates Report Prepared for: City of Edina Short Elliot Hendrickson Prepared by: RRC Associates LLC 4770 Baseline Rd,Ste 360 Boulder,CO 80303 303/449 6558 www.rrcassociates.com July 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. Table ofContents INTRODUCTION ................................................... 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...................................... 2 NORDIC SKIING IN TWIN CITIES ....................... 3 SNOW TUBING IN TWIN CITIES ......................... 6 FINANCIAL ANALYSIS ........................................ 7 Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 1 INTRODUCTION This market assessment report summarizes some key factors critical to the decision making around a proposed winter recreation park at Braemar Park in Edina,MN.A high level competitive analysis and financial analysis are provided in this document. The report is intended to serve as a framework for discussions to assist City of Edina staff in making strategic decisions regarding the potential for the proposed Winter Recreation Park. Information sources used in this report include US Census Bureau reports,National Ski Areas Association financial reports,City of Edina staff reports,interviews with members of the local Nordic ski community,and secondary research with various websites to document activities in the region. The information in this report does not represent a guarantee of any specific outcome,as many factors will impact the ultimate performance of the proposed Braemar Winter Recreation Park. Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This section presents a brief overview of some of the findings of the Financial and Market Assessment report.Please see the body of the report for more detail on these and other topics. Numerous options for Nordic skiing exist in the Twin Cities area,though most rely on natural snow and light.Only Three Rivers Parks District (Hyland Park Preserve and Elm Creek Reserve)and Theodore Wirth in Golden Valley have manmade snow and lights for Nordic Skiing.The proposed Winter Recreation Area at Braemar Park would have both lighting and manmade snowmaking,which would give the facility a significant competitive advantage. Snow Tubing options in the Twin Cities are more limited in comparison to Nordic skiing, largely due to the need for manmade snow for a tubing facility to operate.The tubing options closest to Edina are Wirth (9 miles north)and Buck Hill (16 miles south).The limited amount of immediate competition for snow tubing suggests an opportunity for Braemar Park to fulfil an unmet need in the Edina area. Two scenarios were prepared with the financial model –one for a short season of 70 days and another for a long season of 84 days. Adjustments were made to several expense line items because of efficiencies with existing City operations,most importantly the cost for labor. The Winter Snowsports Park is projected to break even in Year One,and become increasingly profitable through Year Five,in both the short and long season scenarios. Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 3 NORDIC SKIING IN TWIN CITIES Table 1 below lists the other Nordic and tubing facilities in the Twin Cities area (and beyond), generally within 20 miles of Edina.Numerous options for Nordic skiing exist,though most rely on natural snow and light.Only Three Rivers Parks District (Hyland Park Preserve and Elm Creek Reserve)and Theodore Wirth in Golden Valley have manmade snow and lights for Nordic Skiing.The proposed Winter Recreation Area at Braemar Park would have both lighting and manmade snowmaking,which would give the facility a significant competitive advantage. Generally,day tickets at Nordic facilities are $8 per day,while a season pass is typically $65 for areas with manmade snow and $30 to $50 for areas with natural snow.Because this report was prepared after the winter 2015/16 was over,some information on pricing was not available. Table 1 Nordic Ski Options in the Twin Cities Area Owner/ Manager of park/trail Facility Location Miles of trails KM of trails Distance from Edina (miles) Cost Edina HS Hornet Hills Trails Edina, MN (part of the high school grounds) 2.7 4.5 3 City of Richfield Wood Lake Nature Center Richfield, MN 2 4 4.9 Three Rivers Parks District Glen Lake Golf & Practice Center Minnetonka, MN 1.5 2.4 6 Daily: $8; Season $65; Three Rivers Parks District Hyland Lake Park Reserve Bloomington, MN 9.5 15.2 6 Daily: $8; Season $65; Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board Chain of Lakes Minneapolis, MN 5 8 7.1 $50 Season pass; $8 daily Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board Hiawatha Golf Club Minneapolis, MN 2.5 4.1 7.8 $50 Season pass; $8 daily Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board Theodore Wirth Winter Recreational Area Golden Valley, MN 15 25 9.1 $50 Season pass; $8 daily Staring Lake Ski Trails Eden Prairie, MN 4.6 7.5 10 Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 4 Owner/ Manager of park/trail Facility Location Miles of trails KM of trails Distance from Edina (miles) Cost MNDNR Fort Snelling State Park Near MSP Airport 11 17.7 11 Daily: $6; $20 (1 year), $55 (3 years) Highland 9-hole Golf Course Saint Paul, MN 2.2 3.5 11.8 Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board Columbia Golf Club Minneapolis, MN 5 8 14.2 $50 Season pass; $8 daily Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Chaska, MN 8.7 14 15 Terrace Oaks Park Burnsville, MN 6.8 10.9 15.1 Lake Minnewashta Regional Park Chanhassen, MN 3 5 15.3 Alimagnet Park Burnsville, MN 2.7 4.5 15.7 Three Rivers Park District Eagle Lake Regional Park Plymouth, MN 3.6 5.8 16 Daily: $8; Season $65; Three Rivers Park District French Regional Park Plymouth, MN 5.2 8.3 16.2 Daily: $8; Season $65; UMN University of Minnesota Nordic Ski Center 4 6.47 17.4 Classic: $8 for 2 hours Three Rivers Park District Murphy- Hanrehan Park Reserve Savage, MN 9 14.5 17.9 Daily: $8; Season $65; Como Golf Course Saint Paul, MN 3 5 18.4 Lebanon Hills Regional Park Eagan 12.5 20.1 18.7 Vallywood Golf Course Apple Valley, MN 3 5 18.9 Three Rivers Parks District Elm Creek Park Reserve Maple Grove, MN 11.4 18.3 19.8 Daily: $8; Season $65; Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 5 Owner/ Manager of park/trail Facility Location Miles of trails KM of trails Distance from Edina (miles) Cost Irondale Trails New Brighton, MN 1.8 2.9 20 MNDNR Ritter Farm Park Lakeville, MN 7.4 12 20.2 Daily: $6; $20 (1 year), $55 (3 years) MNDNR Coons Rapids Dam Regional Park Coon Rapids 6 10 20.5 Daily: $6; $20 (1 year), $55 (3 years) Three Rivers Parks District Carver Park Reserve Victoria, MN 11.3 18.2 21 Daily: $8; Season $65; Phalen Golf Course Saint Paul, MN 4.3 7 22 Source:Three Rivers Parks District Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 6 SNOW TUBING IN TWIN CITIES Snow Tubing options in the Twin Cities are more limited in comparison to Nordic skiing,largely due to the need for manmade snow for a tubing facility to operate.The tubing options closest to Edina are Wirth (9 miles north)and Buck Hill (16 miles south).The limited amount of immediate competition for snow tubing suggests an opportunity for Braemar Park to fulfil an unmet need in the Edina area. The charge for tubing is generally about $15 to $17 for a two hour session,with lower cost for children and for additional sessions beyond the initial two hours. Table 2: Snow Tubing opportunities in Twin Cities area Facility Location Distance from Edina Cost Theodore Wirth Winter Recreation Area Golden Valley, MN 9.1 miles $12 for adults, $8 children Buck Hill Burnsville, MN 16 miles $17 per 2-hour session (day); $15 for 2-hour night session Trapp Farm Park Tubing Hill Eagan, MN 16.8 miles $3 per person (no lift or tow) Elm Creek Park Reserve Maple Grove, MN 19.8 miles $15 for 2 hours, $3 for additional hours Green Acres Recreation Lake Elmo, MN 34 miles $16 for 2 hours Eko Backen Scandia, MN 47 miles $16 for 3 hours, $13 kids 4 to 12 Source:Buck Hill Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 7 FINANCIAL ANALYSIS This section presents a brief,high level analysis of potential revenues and expenses for the proposed Braemar Park Winter Recreation Area. Inputs and assumptions are based on local competitive pricing,weather records,and expense benchmarks from the NSAA Economic Analysis for small Midwestern ski areas.Several of the key inputs and assumptions are as follows: Operational Inputs The Nordic trails at the winter recreation park is projected to operate 7 days a week for 10 weeks (December 20 to March 1),for a total of 70 days of Nordic operations.An additional scenario with a longer operating season (84 days,December 20 to March 15) was also modeled in the financial analysis. The tubing hills at the winter recreation park are projected to operate 4 days a week for 10 weeks,for a total of 40 days of snow tubing operations.Also,a longer,12 week season (48 days)was included as a second scenario in the financial analysis. The estimate for Nordic ski visits is 3,500 visits in the short season and 4,100 visits in the long season.Snow tubing visits are estimated at 9,200 in the short season and 10,900 in the long season scenario. Revenue Inputs Nordic pricing is $9 for a day ticket and $75 for a season pass,with a 65 percent yield ratio (to incorporate discounting for youth,senior,and group tickets,for example).On the snow tubing side,a ticket price of $12 with a yield ratio of 60 percent was utilized in the financial analysis. Nordic visit growth is projected at 3 to 5 percent per season for the five year forecast. Snow tubing growth is projected at 1 to 2 percent over the same time period. On the Nordic side,the revenue model incorporates monies from ticket and pass sales, Nordic ski lessons,Nordic ski rental,6 Nordic ski races,and 3 fat tire races.Tubing revenue is derived from tubing ticket sales only. The financial analysis projections do not include any concession revenue from Tin Fish restaurant. Ticket price increases of $0.50 per year for both Nordic and tubing are incorporated into the model.$2 increases per season for Nordic season passes are also part of the analysis. Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 8 Expense Inputs Average gross and per visit expenses from small Midwest tubing areas (collected through the National Ski Areas Association Economic Analysis study)were used as a basis for projecting expenses. Specific adjustments to expense line items were made as follows: o Cost of goods sold expense was reduced 90 percent,because the majority of cost of goods expense is for the retail and food &beverage departments.The remaining cost of goods expense is for the limited fleet of Nordic rental skis, boots,and poles. o Labor payroll expense was reduced by 40 percent,in recognition that a component of the labor will be covered by some of the existing year round staff at the Braemar golf course.These staff members will assist with Nordic and tubing operations,including snowmaking,grooming,maintenance,and other functions. o Similarly,expense for payroll taxes/benefits was also reduced by 40 percent. o Cost for electric power/fuel was increased by 20 percent due to the extensive snowmaking system for the 3 kilometers of Nordic trails and two different tubing runs. o General &administrative cost was reduced by half under the assumption that some of this general support expense would be covered by the City parks department. o Property/other taxes were reduced by 80 percent since this is a city park and a parcel of land that does not pay property taxes (though still might have some other taxes or fees). o Insurance expense was not allocated to the Winter Recreation Park because the insurance coverage would be paid for by the City. Cost increases of 2.0%to 2.5%per year are incorporated into the model. The results show that,for the short season of 70 days of operation,the projected operating profit/EBITDA would break even in Year One,and would show a positive cash flow in Years 2 through 5 (see Table 3). For the long season of 84 operating days,the financial model shows a profit of $4,600 in Year One and $20,000 in Year Five (see Table 4). Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 9 Table 3 Summary Financial Model – Short Season (70 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation Table 4 Summary Financial Model – Long Season (84 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation SUMMARY - SHORT SEASON Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5Nordic Revenue$50,438 $54,073 $58,602 $62,597 $64,035Tubing Revenue$69,240 $72,031 $74,802 $77,550 $80,272Total Revenue$119,678 $126,104 $133,403 $140,147 $144,306Operating Expenses$119,430 $121,819 $124,864 $127,362 $130,546Operating Cash Flow$247 $4,284 $8,539 $12,785 $13,761Operating Margin0.2% 3.4% 6.4% 9.1% 9.5%Depreciation$18,576 $18,948 $18,948 $19,326 $19,326Net Cash Flow-$18,329 -$14,663 -$10,409 -$6,541 -$5,566Net Cash Flow Margin-15.3% -11.6% -7.8% -4.7% -3.9%SUMMARY - LONG SEASON Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5Nordic Revenue $57,495 $61,386 $66,331 $70,616 $72,356Tubing Revenue $81,480 $84,801 $88,099 $91,372 $94,616Total Revenue $138,975 $146,187 $154,430 $161,988 $166,972Operating Expenses $134,359 $137,046 $140,473 $143,282 $146,864Operating Cash Flow $4,616 $9,141 $13,958 $18,706 $20,108Operating Margin 3.3% 6.3% 9.0% 11.5% 12.0%Depreciation $18,576 $18,948 $18,948 $19,326 $19,326Net Cash Flow -$13,960 -$9,807 -$4,990 -$620 $782Net Cash Flow Margin -10.0% -6.7% -3.2% -0.4% 0.5% Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 10 Table 5 Summary Financial Model – Short Season (70 Days) – NORDIC ONLY Braemar Park Winter Recreation Table 6 Summary Financial Model – Long Season (84 Days) – NORDIC ONLY Braemar Park Winter Recreation SUMMARY - SHORT SEASONNORDIC ONLYYear 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5Nordic Revenue $50,438 $54,073 $58,602 $62,597 $64,035Total Revenue $50,438 $54,073 $58,602 $62,597 $64,035Operating Expenses $60,947 $62,166 $63,720 $64,995 $66,620Operating Cash Flow -$10,510 -$8,094 -$5,119 -$2,398 -$2,585Operating Margin -8.8% -6.4% -3.8% -1.7% -1.8%Depreciation $13,932 $14,211 $14,211 $14,495 $14,495Net Cash Flow -$24,442 -$22,304 -$19,330 -$16,893 -$17,080Net Cash Flow Margin -48.5% -41.2% -33.0% -27.0% -26.7%SUMMARY - LONG SEASONNORDIC ONLYYear 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5Nordic Revenue $57,495 $61,386 $66,331 $70,616 $72,356Total Revenue $57,495 $61,386 $66,331 $70,616 $72,356Operating Expenses $66,400 $67,728 $69,422 $70,810 $72,580Operating Cash Flow -$8,905 -$6,342 -$3,091 -$194 -$224Operating Margin -6.4% -4.3% -2.0% -0.1% -0.1%Depreciation $13,932 $14,211 $14,211 $14,495 $14,495Net Cash Flow -$22,837 -$20,553 -$17,301 -$14,689 -$14,719Net Cash Flow Margin -39.7% -33.5% -26.1% -20.8% -20.3% Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 11 Table 7 Financial Model Visits – Short Season (70 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation Year12345VISITSYear 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5NORDICDays of Operation7070707070Nordic Day Tickets Nordic Ticket Price$9.00$9.50 $10.00 $10.50 $11.00 Nordic Ticket Yield Ratio65%64%63%62%61% Nordic Ticket Visits1,7501,8381,9292,0262,127Nordic Season Passes Nordic Pass Price$75.00 $77.00 $79.00 $81.00 $81.00 Nordic Pass Units250275300325325 Visits per Pass77777 Nordic Pass Visits1,7501,9252,1002,2752,275Nordic Visits (ticket + pass)3,5003,7634,0294,3014,402Ratio: Nordic Visits per Day5054586163TUBINGDays of Operation4040404040Tubing Price$12.00 $12.50 $13.00 $13.50 $14.00Tubing Ticket Yield Ratio60%59%58%57%56%Tubing Visits - Residents6,0006,1206,2426,3676,495Tubing Visits - Visitors3,2003,2323,2643,2973,330Tubing Visits (residents + visitors)9,2009,3529,5079,6649,825Ratio: Tubing Visits per Day230234238242246Total Winter Visits12,700 13,115 13,536 13,965 14,227 Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 12 Table 8 Financial Model Revenue – Short Season (70 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation Year12345NORDICYear 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5Ticket Revenue$10,238 $11,172 $12,155 $13,188 $14,273Pass Revenue$18,750 $21,175 $23,700 $26,325 $26,325Race Revenue$14,500 $14,500 $14,500 $14,500 $14,500Lesson Revenue$2,450 $2,573 $2,971 $3,120 $3,276Ski Rental Revenue$2,100 $2,205 $2,778 $2,917 $3,063Other Revenue (fat bike racing, youth clubs, e$2,400 $2,448 $2,497 $2,547 $2,598F&B Revenue (Tin Fish)Total Nordic Revenue $50,438 $54,073 $58,602 $62,597 $64,035Ratio: Nordic Revenue per Visit $14.41 $14.37 $14.54 $14.55 $14.55Ratio: Nordic Revenue per Day $721 $772 $837 $894 $915TUBINGTicket Revenue - Residents $43,200 $45,135 $47,068 $48,996 $50,918Ticket Revenue - Visitors $23,040 $23,836 $24,613 $25,370 $26,107Other Revenue (snowshoeing, etc.) $3,000 $3,060 $3,121 $3,184 $3,247Total Tubing Revenue $69,240 $72,031 $74,802 $77,550 $80,272Ratio: Tubing Revenue per Visit $7.53 $7.70 $7.87 $8.02 $8.17Ratio: Tubing Revenue per Day $1,731 $1,801 $1,870 $1,939 $2,007TOTAL WINTER REVENUE $119,678 $126,104 $133,403 $140,147 $144,306Ratio: Total Revenue per Visit $9.42 $9.62 $9.86 $10.04 $10.14 Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 13 Table 9 Financial Model Expenses – Short Season (70 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation SeasonYear 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5EXPENSESCost of Goods $2,064 $2,105 $2,158 $2,201 $2,256Direct Labor $40,070 $40,872 $41,894 $42,731 $43,800Maintenance & Repair $7,968 $8,127 $8,331 $8,497 $8,710Other Direct $30,528 $31,139 $31,917 $32,555 $33,369Electric Power/Fuel $12,941 $13,200 $13,530 $13,800 $14,145Payroll Taxes/Benefits $8,832 $9,009 $9,234 $9,419 $9,654Operating Expenses $102,403 $104,451 $107,063 $109,204 $111,934Gross Profit $17,274 $21,652 $26,341 $30,943 $32,372G&A $8,880 $9,058 $9,284 $9,470 $9,706Marketing/Advertising $7,392 $7,540 $7,728 $7,883 $8,080Property/Other Taxes $755 $770 $790 $805 $825Insurance $0$0$0$0$0Common Expenses $17,027 $17,368 $17,802 $18,158 $18,612Net Operating Profit (EBITDA) $247 $4,284 $8,539 $12,785 $13,761Operating Leases $1,440 $1,469 $1,469 $1,498 $1,498Depreciation $18,576 $18,948 $18,948 $19,326 $19,326Interest $6,804 $6,940 $6,940 $7,079 $7,079Amortization $1,044 $1,065 $1,065 $1,086 $1,086Post-EBITDA Expenses $27,864 $28,421 $28,421 $28,990 $28,990Pre-Tax Profit -$27,617 -$24,137 -$19,882 -$16,205 -$15,229Operating Profit Margin 0.2% 3.4% 6.4% 9.1% 9.5%Pre-Tax Profit Margin -23.1% -19.1% -14.9% -11.6% -10.6% Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 14 Table 10 Financial Model Visits – Long Season (84 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation VISITSYear 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5NORDICDays of Operation8484848484Nordic Day Tickets Nordic Ticket Price$9.00$9.50 $10.00 $10.50 $11.00 Nordic Ticket Yield Ratio65%64%63%62%61% Nordic Ticket Visits2,1002,2052,3152,4312,553Nordic Season Passes Nordic Pass Price$75.00 $77.00 $79.00 $81.00 $81.00 Nordic Pass Units250275300325325 Visits per Pass88888 Nordic Pass Visits2,0002,2002,4002,6002,600Nordic Visits (ticket + pass)4,1004,4054,7155,0315,153Ratio: Nordic Visits per Day4952566061TUBINGDays of Operation4848484848Tubing Price$12.00 $12.50 $13.00 $13.50 $14.00Tubing Ticket Yield Ratio60%59%58%57%56%Tubing Visits - Residents7,4507,5997,7517,9068,064Tubing Visits - Visitors3,4503,4853,5193,5553,590Tubing Visits (residents + visitors)10,900 11,084 11,270 11,461 11,654Ratio: Tubing Visits per Day227231235239243Total Winter Visits15,000 15,489 15,986 16,492 16,807 Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 15 Table 11 Financial Model Revenue – Long Season (84 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation NORDICYear 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5Ticket Revenue $12,285 $13,406 $14,586 $15,826 $17,128Pass Revenue $18,750 $21,175 $23,700 $26,325 $26,325Race Revenue $17,400 $17,400 $17,400 $17,400 $17,400Lesson Revenue $2,940 $3,087 $3,565 $3,744 $3,931Ski Rental Revenue $2,520 $2,646 $3,334 $3,501 $3,676Other Revenue (fat bike racing, etc) $3,600 $3,672 $3,745 $3,820 $3,897F&B Revenue (Tin Fish)Total Nordic Revenue $57,495 $61,386 $66,331 $70,616 $72,356Ratio: Nordic Revenue per Visit $14.02 $13.94 $14.07 $14.04 $14.04Ratio: Nordic Revenue per Day $684 $731 $790 $841 $861TUBINGTicket Revenue - Residents $53,640 $56,043 $58,442 $60,837 $63,223Ticket Revenue - Visitors $24,840 $25,698 $26,536 $27,352 $28,146Other Revenue $3,000 $3,060 $3,121 $3,184 $3,247Total Tubing Revenue $81,480 $84,801 $88,099 $91,372 $94,616Ratio: Tubing Revenue per Visit $7.48 $7.65 $7.82 $7.97 $8.12Ratio: Tubing Revenue per Day $1,698 $1,767 $1,835 $1,904 $1,971TOTAL WINTER REVENUE $138,975 $146,187 $154,430 $161,988 $166,972 Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 16 Table 12 Financial Model Expenses – Long Season (84 Days) Braemar Park Winter Recreation SeasonYear 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5EXPENSESCost of Goods $2,322 $2,368 $2,428 $2,476 $2,538Direct Labor $45,079 $45,981 $47,130 $48,073 $49,275Maintenance & Repair $8,964 $9,143 $9,372 $9,559 $9,798Other Direct $34,344 $35,031 $35,907 $36,625 $37,540Electric Power/Fuel $14,558 $14,850 $15,221 $15,525 $15,913Payroll Taxes/Benefits $9,936 $10,135 $10,388 $10,596 $10,861Operating Expenses $115,204 $117,508 $120,445 $122,854 $125,926Gross Profit $23,771 $28,680 $33,985 $39,134 $41,047G&A $9,990 $10,190 $10,445 $10,653 $10,920Marketing/Advertising $8,316 $8,482 $8,694 $8,868 $9,090Property/Other Taxes $850 $867 $888 $906 $929Insurance $0$0$0$0$0Common Expenses $19,156 $19,539 $20,027 $20,428 $20,938Net Operating Profit (EBITDA) $4,616 $9,141 $13,958 $18,706 $20,108Operating Leases $1,440 $1,469 $1,469 $1,498 $1,498Depreciation $18,576 $18,948 $18,948 $19,326 $19,326Interest $6,804 $6,940 $6,940 $7,079 $7,079Amortization $1,044 $1,065 $1,065 $1,086 $1,086Post-EBITDA Expenses $27,864 $28,421 $28,421 $28,990 $28,990Pre-Tax Profit -$23,248 -$19,280 -$14,463 -$10,284 -$8,881Operating Profit Margin3.3%6.3%9.0% 11.5% 12.0%Pre-Tax Profit Margin-16.7% -13.2% -9.4% -6.3% -5.3% Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment – 2016 RRC Associates, Inc. 17 Appendix B Torrent Engineering Graphics Engineering and EquipmentTORRENT PRELIMINARY NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION 1 2 2A 3 4 5 6 5A 7 8 9 10 Figure6BDHD7July2016AVGMonthlyMeanMinTemp(DegF)AVGMonthlyMeanMaxTemp(DegF)AVGMonthlyMeanTemp(DegF)TotalAverageSnowFall/Month(inches)TotalHoursPerMonthAvailableNightTimeHrsPerMonth(SeeNote1)UtilizationFactor(ConsideringNightUseOnly)SnowmakingHoursNovember28.3643.836.093.567205060%30December13.3226.720.0215.2674420050%100January8.6423.6516.167.657442500%0February10.3126.2218.2710.266722000%0TotalSnowmakingHours130DatatakenfromJan2005throughNov2015DataObtainedfromNOAANationalClimaticDataCenterDataCollectedfromtheMinneapolisStPaulInt'lAirportStationhttp://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/cdoweb/Note1NightTimeHoursCalculatedasFollows:November5nightsx10hourspernightDecember20nightsx10hourspernightJanuary25nightsx10hourspernightFebruary20nightsx10hourspernightBRAEMARPARKWINTERRECREATIONAREACityofEdinaMNClimateDataRawDataObtainedfromNOAA LocationofProjectSiteRelativetotheDataCollectionLocationProjectSiteElevationof845’atthepumphouseand946’atthetopClimateDataCollectionStationElevationof830’6.7MilesBetweenClimateDataSourceandProjectSitePicturefromGoogleEarthImageData11March2016EyeAltitudeof11.8milesDHD6July2016Figure6C Torrent Engineering and Equipment Figure 6D Snowmaking Capacity Recommendations Nordic (Cross Country) Trail - Tubing Area - 7 6 Torrent Engineering and Equipment Figure 6E Proposed Snowmaking Machine Electrical Characteristics Torrent Engineering and Equipment Figure 6F Proposed Snowmaking Pump Station Calculations Engineering and Equipment BOOSTER PUMP STATION TORRENT CITY OF EDINA RECREATION AREAPLAN VIEW SCALE: 3 4" = 1'-0" PRELIMINARY NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION A 2 2 A Engineering and Equipment BOOSTER PUMP STATION TORRENT CITY OF EDINA RECREATION AREA SECTION A-A SCALE: 3 4" = 1'-0"PRELIMINARY NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION Torrent Engineering and Equipment Primary Snowmaking Pump Station Electrical Load Summary Chart Appendix C HDR Memo hdrinc.com Date: Project: To: From: Subject: Introduction Regulatory Environment Table 1. MPCA Noise Standards L L L L L L L L hdrinc.com Noise Measurements hdrinc.com Figure 1. Noise Measurement Locations hdrinc.com L Figure 2. Measured Existing Hourly L10 L L L L L L hdrinc.com Figure 3. Measured Existing Hourly L50 L L L L L Noise Modeling Table 2. Modeled Sound Power Levels hdrinc.com Table 3. Modeled Parameters L L L L L L L L L L hdrinc.com Figure 4. Modeled Project Noise Contours hdrinc.com L Table 4. Comparison of Measured and Modeled Results L L L L L Conclusions L L Appendix D Signed Right-of-Entry Letters Appendix E PowerPoint from Open House 1 2 3 4 Description Date Park Board Introduction April City Council –Start Feasibility Study May 17 City Council Update –Trail &Financial Feasibility June 7 City Council Update –Trail &Financial Feasibility (Direction to continue feasibility study)June 21 Feasibility Study –Sound, Light, and Snow Spill Modeling and Cont’d Financial/Operational Study June &July Public Open House July 13 Park Board Review August 8 5 Description Date Complete Study June 29 City Council Public Hearing –Request for bid document preparation September 7 City Council Bid Authorization November 1 Bid Project Nov.2 –Dec. 2 Open Bids December 2 Bid Award December 20, 2016 Construction Jan –Sept 2017 Open for 2017/2018 Winter Season December 2017 6 7 8 9 10 11 Trail Breakdown Beginner Intermediate Expert Total Length –3.0 km 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 Item Opinion of Cost Opinion of Total Project Cost–Construct XC Skiing and Tubing $2,900,000 36 37 38 39 PRELIMINARY ESTIMATES ONLY 40 41 Appendix F Open House Comments Winter Recreation Area at Braemar ParkComment Card ReportJuly 2016Name AddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail? Comments:Page1 NameAddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail?Comments:Page2 NameAddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail?Comments:Page3 NameAddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail?Comments:Page4 NameAddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail?Comments:Page5 NameAddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail?Comments:Page6 NameAddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail?Comments:Page7 NameAddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail?Comments:Page8 NameAddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail?Comments:Page9 NameAddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail?Comments:Page10 NameAddressDo you currently use winter trails at Braemar Golf Course?Whould you use machine-made snow trails for:Would you use the snow tubing hill?Would you use a single-track mountain bike trail?Comments:Page11 Appendix G Overspray Graphics Day Highest Wind Gust Speed (mph)Average Wind Speed (mph)Highest Gust Direction 1 35 14.4 W 2 33 15.2 W 3 29 12.9 W 4 21 8.1 S Snowmaking Machine Overspray on DrivewayOverspray on Stairs/DeckSample Snow Overspray Snowmaking Machine N July 13, 2016 Snowmaking at Braemar Park Snowmaking and Snow Overspray Examples Appendix H Opinion of Probable Cost Spreadsheet City of EdinaWinter Recreation Area at Braemar ParkOpinion of Probable Cost Based on Design Documents SEH No. EDINA 137403Date: 7/8/16Revised: Item No.Item DescriptionUnitEst. Total QuantityUnit Price Est. Total CostSCHEDULE A - SITE CIVILEstimated Construction Cost Schedule A $159,600.00SCHEDULE B - PUMP HOUSE SUBSTRUCTURE (BUILDING 16 FT X 20 FT)Page1 Estimated Construction Cost Schedule B70,272.00$ SCHEDULE C - MECHANICALEstimated Construction Cost Schedule C $629,000.00SCHEDULE D - ELECTRICAL Page2 Estimated Construction Cost Schedule D879,473.50$ SCHEDULE E - WINTER RECREATION SUPPORT EQUIPMENTEstimated Construction Cost Schedule E308,500.00$ SCHEDULE F - STRUCTURALEstimated Construction Cost Schedule F42,010.00$ Construction Cost Schedules A-F (Base Bid)$2,088,855.50$3,177,984.93Page3 Appendix I Traffic Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation –Traffic Demands The expansion of winter activities at Braemar Park is expected to generate more winter traffic on area roadways than the existing condition in winter.However,the number of trips generated in the winter will be lower than the existing trips generated by summer uses.The table below provides an estimate of daily traffic demands for each season from each use at Braemar Park. Estimated Daily Trip Generation Season Uses User visits per day (1,2)Estimated vehicle trips per day (3,4) Summer (Existing)Golf Courses 450 rounds 409 Driving Range 225 patrons 205 Tin Fish 75 diners 68 Totals 682 Winter (Proposed)Nordic Skiing (5)50 skiers 45 Snowtubing (6)230 tubers 209 Tin Fish 75 diners 68 Totals 322 Notes: (1)Employee and service vehicle trips not included (2)Summer visits per day provided by Braemar Golf Course staff; Winter visits per day from Braemar Park Winter Recreation Financial and Market Assessment, page 11. (3)Assumes 2.2 people per vehicle average for social and recreational trips;Source:2009 National Household Travel Survey (4)Two vehicle trips per visit (1 trip arriving and 1 trip departing) (5)Nordic skiing will occur 7 days per week for 1012 weeks per season (6)Snow tubing will occur 4 days per week for 1012 weeks per season Prepared By:Mike Kotila,PE;Senior Transportation Engineer at SEH Date:July,8,2016 Appendix J Trail Bench Grading Sketch Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report Braemar Park Winter Recreation Open House Comment Card Report EDINA HIGH SCHOOL Activities Department 6754 Valley View Road • Edina, Minnesota • 55439 Phone: 952-848-3817 • Fax: 952-848-3818 July 29, 2016 Ms. Ann Kattreh Director of Parks & Recreation City of Edina Dear Ms. Kattreh, Edina Public Schools is proud of the strong relationship with the City of Edina. Our ability to collaborate on community projects to maximize funding and space in the city has been remarkable. While the high school’s campus currently provides just over 1km of made snow on Edina Public School grounds and a total cross country trail of 5k, we have limits in the very near future with our trails on campus. This includes: 1. The EHS Nordic program has over 200 student athletes participating in the Nordic Ski Program. 2. The addition of artificial turf will decrease our total trail to 4+k starting this winter. 3. The future Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail (2017-18) will limit our ability to ski continually for 4+k and create two 2+k loops. 4. Current snow making on campus trails is highly dependent on very dedicated ski volunteers. Our current coaching staff is to be complimented for coordinating this effort. An expanded Braemar cross country ski trail would be benefit our Nordic program. I continue to appreciate your ongoing leadership efforts to youth and their activities. Sincerely, Troy M. Stein Troy M. Stein Assistant Principal/Athletic Director Edina Public Schools cc: Edina School Board Superintendent Dressen Principal Locklear KEY: Grey = Parks & Recreation Staff Items Black = Potential Park Board Items Yellow = Current Work Plan Items Natural Resources & Sustainable Parks Goal 1: PROTECT, ENHANCE AND RESTORE THE CITY’S NATURAL RESOURCE AND NATURAL AREAS Goal 2: CREATE MORE RESILIENT AND SUSTAINABLE PARKS, FACILITIES AND LANDSCAPES Goal 3: PROTECT AND RESTORE EDINA’S WATER RESOURCES Goal 2016 Status/Timing Started/Postponed/ Completed Comment 1 – Strategy 1.1 Hire a natural Resources Manager Postponed 1 – Strategy 1.2 Adopt a City-wide policy of no net loss of natural areas and open spaces Postponed. Need to verify. This is general practice but I don’t believe there is policy in place. 1 – Strategy 1.2 Apply for grants to assist in control invasive species 1 – Strategy 1.3 Create programs that provide education and get residents outside to experience natural resources throughout the City 2 – Strategy 2.1 Follow recommendations of the 2013 UFTF report 3 – Strategy 3.3 Continue to support popular fishing programs… Started 3 – Strategy 3.3 Expand Fishing Access opportunities with increased fish habitat, fishing infrastructure and programs… Goal 2017 Request Park Board Assistance / Park Board Member Interest Comment 1 – Strategy 1.2 Collect existing data and studies conducted into one centralized document 1 – Strategy 1.2 Prioritize the next 5 years of restoration goals, invasive species control efforts and maintenance operations 1 – Strategy 1.3 Develop partnerships with non-profits, education agencies and other environmental education associates Started 2 – Strategy 2.1 Educate residents on current Started initiatives 2 – Strategy 2.2 Use SITES as a guide for new park development and retrofits and to create a green operations plan 3 – Strategy 3.1 Coordinate with Engineering Department to consider joining Hennepin County’s Wetland Health Evaluation Program to engage community members in monitoring wetland and water quality 3 – Strategy 3.2 Partner with Environmental Engineering Dept to identify opportunities to increase the water quality throughout City Started 3 – Strategy 3.2 Minimize potable water use for irrigation by reducing irrigation needs… Parks, Open Space & Trails Goal 1: PROMOTE CONNECTIONS TO THE PARK SYSTEM WITHIN THE CITY AND TO THE SURROUNDING REGION Goal 2: ENSURE EXCELLENCE AND EQUITABLE ACCESS TO PARKS FOR ALL RESIDENTS Goal 3: INCREASE THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF THE PARKS AND TRAIL SYSTEM Goal 4: REVITALIZE EXISTING PARKS BY ALIGNING PARK, OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL INFRASTRUCTURE WITH CURRENT AND ANTRICPATED COMMUNITY NEEDS Goal 2016 Status/Timing Started/Postponed/ Completed Comment 1 – Strategy 1.1 Achieve a .75 miles per 1,000 people goal for hard surface trails… 1 – Strategy 1.2 Create a comprehensive branding, signage and wayfinding plan for EPRD… To start in Fall 2016 1 – Strategy 1.3 Dedicate communications staff to EPRD efforts 1 – Strategy 1.3 Create and implement a naming policy for parks and future facilities 4 – Strategy 4.1 Consult Level of Service study to Identify gaps and Recommendations Goal 2017 Request Park Board Assistance / Park Board Member Interest Comment 1 – Strategy 1.2 Coordinate with other departments and incorporate branding throughout City materials Started 2 – Strategy 2.1 Research CAPRA requirements, highlight where the EPRD has gaps and develop plan… 3 – Strategy 3.2 Incorporate Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles… 4 – Strategy 4.2 Emphasize year round opportunities at Braemar Park to cross pollinate with existing activities (mountain biking trails, snow making for ski trails, biathlon training, other winter uses) Started 4 – Strategy 4.2 Require community driven master plans for projects over $250K – Complete community driven plan for Fred Richards Started Recreation Facilities Goal 1: PROVIDE HIGH FUNCTIONING PARKS FACILITIES THAT ARE RESPONSIVE TO CHANGING COMMUNITY NEEDS AND INTERESTS Goal 2: INCREASE FACILITY ACCESSIBILIYT AND CONSISTENCY THROUGHOUT THE CITY Goal 2016 Status/Timing Started/Postponed/ Completed Comment 1 – Strategy 1.1 Develop Cost Recovery Goals for the community Facilities… Started 1 – Strategy 1.1 Consider hiring architectural consultant to lead a stakeholder group through as architectural pre-design process… Started 1 – Strategy 1.1 Develop partnership that may be able to contribute to capital and cooperation costs. 1 – Strategy 1.2 Study Art Center Needs and program requirements to determine whether to remodel, relocate facility Started 1 – Strategy 1.3 Focus on management issues such as fees, costs Started 1 – Strategy 1.3 Review winter use support at facilities and match to activities Started 1 – Strategy 1.2 Analyze Centennial Lakes for increased revenue opportunities, reduce maintenance… Started 2 – Strategy 2.1 …Create plan to retire/replace outdated facilities… Started - CIP Goal 2017 Request Park Board Assistance / Park Board Member Interest Comment 1– Strategy 1.1 Rebrand Senior Center… 1 – Strategy 2.1 Balance the enterprise facilities or gathering space throughout city… Recreation Programs Goal 1: PROVIDE A VARIETY OF PROGRAMS THAT MEET COMMUNITY NEEDS AND INTERESTS AND MAINTAIN THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF EXCELLENCE Goal 2: DELIVER PARK AND RECREATION PROGRAMMIN GMORE EFFICIENTLY AND EFFECTIVELY Goal 2016 Status/Timing Started/Postponed/ Completed Comment 1 – Strategy 1.1 Provide programming that satisfies the needs of multiple age levels…. Started 1 – Strategy 1.1 Work with Marketing to establish the most effective strategies for programs… Started 1 – Strategy 1.2 Strive to keep 50-60% of all recreation programs in the introductory stages to align with trends… Started 2 – Strategy 2.1 Review program providers to eliminate overlap Started 2 – Strategy 2.3 Incorporate instructor tool kits to provide all program standard elements into a working system to increase quality… Started Goal 2017 Request Park Board Assistance / Park Board Member Interest Comment 2 – Strategy 2.3 Teach and train program standards implementation across the system… Started 2 – Strategy 2.3 Track users of services across the city based on the services by mapping proximity to residence, income and age segments served. Started – Parks GIS & Max Solutions Finance & Management excluded as deemed staff/city responsibilities Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2016 12:42 PM To: Eric Boettcher; Susan Faus; Janet Canton Subject: FW: Weber and Rosland Parks Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattreh@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Pamela Balabuszko-Reay [mailto:sterlingsilverpamela@gnnail.com] Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2016 12:33 PM To: Edina Mail; Ann Kattreh Subject: Weber and Rosland Parks Hello Park Board Members, One of our neighborhood groups, The MAC or Morningside Athletic Club, received the following communication from Board Member Randy Meyer regarding the funding for the Weber Park and Rosland Park construction projects. I wonder about the ethics of Randy Meyer sending out this communication. The full text is below. He states "As a Park Board member, I'm not inclined to support the Rosland Park recommendation because it shifts funds away from Weber Park. My kids are beyond playground age, but a great neighborhood deserves a great playground." That appears to violate the bylaws which state: 1. "Members should exercise care not to communicate how they intend to vote on any pending matter or give the appearance any matter has been pre-decided." Several neighbors have stated to me that they have given feedback about the Weber project. I am included in that group-having given face to face feedback at the Morningside Eco Fair regarding the surface for the playground. I requested wood mulch instead of automobile tire chunks. I know of at least one other person at the Fair who provided the same feedback. In addition I know of many neighbors, myself included, who support the shifting of the funds saved at Weber to Rosland Park for the construction of an inclusive and accessible park for kids and families with disabilities. I am glad those kids will have a great park experience. A $100k park at Weber is a luxury and something for which I am grateful. That money will provide our neighborhood with a state-of-the-art long-lasting park. The idea that Morningside is being cheated and that we are entitled to more somehow is distasteful to me. Thank you for your time and for the work that you are doing on our behalf Pamela Balabuszko-Reay 4246 Scott Terrace Edina, MN 55416 1 Communication with the Public Outside of Meetings Edina Park Board members are encouraged to share their work with members of the public within the guidelines noted in the paragraph below. When communicating Edina Park Board business with the public, members should understand and convey the following: • The deliberations and decisions of the Edina Park Board will be based solely on information contained in the public record presented to all Edina Park Board members participating in the deliberation or action. • The member's comments do not represent the opinion or viewpoint of other commissioners or the Edina Park Board as a whole. Members should exercise care not to communicate how they intend to vote on any pending matter or give the appearance any matter has been pre-decided. From: edinamac@googlegroups.com [mailto:edinamac@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Randy Meyer Sent: Monday, July 11, 2016 8:47 PM To: Morningside Athletic Club <edinamac@googlegroups.com> Subject: [MAC] Weber Park playground Loses 40% of Budget to Rosland Park Hi MAC, The Weber Park playground equipment is scheduled to be replaced this summer. Forty percent the original budget for this project has been transferred to Rosland park without public input or discussion. See discussion below from my Park Board meeting packet and comparison drawings of the two projects attached. There is an open house to discuss the Weber Park playground project tomorrow (Tuesday) at 6:00 p.m. in the Weber Park warming house. The Park Board meets tomorrow night at 7:00 at City Hall. The Park Board is being asked to recommend to the City Council that the city purchase and install the Rosland Park playground. The Park Board has not received feedback on, or reviewed the plans for, Weber Park. As a Park Board member, I'm not inclined to support the Rosland Park recommendation because it shifts funds away from Weber Park. My kids are beyond playground age, but a great neighborhood deserves a great playground. I would encourage you to attend the playground meeting tomorrow night and email the Park and Rec director (Aim Kattreh, akattreh@edinamn.gov) with any input/concerns. 2 A summary of the playground input process to date is below. Randy The current playground structure at Rosland Park was designed and installed in 1996. It is one of the oldest playgrounds in Edina. The city has $375,000 budgeted in CIP funds to replace the playground structures at Rosland and Weber parks in 2016. $200,000 was budgeted for Rosland Park and $175,000 for Weber Park. Rosland Park is one of the most used playgrounds in the city and the primary focus of the replacement is an inclusive playground design. The goal is to make the playground usable by people of all abilities. The proposed design is 100% accessible via wheelchair. The cost for the proposed design for the playground structure and safety surface at Rosland Park is $275,000. Fortunately, the estimated cost to replace the playground structure at Weber Park with a comparable size structure is $100,000. So we are able to use the additional funds to achieve the inclusive playground design at Rosland Park. The original $175,000 was budgeted to include a rubber poured in place safety surface. After meeting with the neighborhood on multiple occasions, it was determined that the residents wanted a wood fiber safety surface instead of the rubber surface. The elements that were considered in the playground design were the actual play features, play value, safety, accessibility and cost. Weber Park playground input process to date from Eric Boettcher, Edina Park and Rec staff, June 21, 2016: My neighborhood contact has been Joni Bennet and she has informed me of community events that have taken place. She has also helped by sending out information to the MNA through email invites. I have attended the following events to gather information and feedback to help design the playground: Sunday, April 24th Eco Fair at Weber Park - I set up an information booth to get some feedback on what the community was looking for in the playground. I had a design board with a variety of components and showed the variety of play structures as well as showed the different surface materials we could use. The information I received I took back to the playground designer and they put together a playground based on the feedback. Monday, June 6 - Provided updated playground design to Joni Bennet present at the Morningside Neighborhood Association Steering Committee meeting. They gave us additional feedback. Monday, June 20- Attended a Public meeting for Morning Side Neighborhood to provide the proposed playground design to get additional feedback. The key components designed thus far are to keep the playground where it is currently located, use wood fiber for the safety surface and provide features that would accommodate multiple age groups. The playground will meet ADA requirements for accessibility. The next step is to set up a public meeting by notifying residence within 1000 feet of Weber Park through a mailing. We will also promote the open house in the calendar section on the website and through Next Door. Once we finalize the design we plan to remove the existing playground and replaced with new playground sometime in late-August/ early- September. You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Morningside Athletic Club" 3 group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to edinamac+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to edinamac@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at https://groups.google.com/group/edinamac. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Thursday, July 14, 2016 11:00 AM To: Edina Mail; Janet Canton Subject: FW: Winter recreation at Braemer Please put in council and park board correspondence. Thank you! Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattreh@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Susan Parham [mailto:sp4526@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2016 6:24 PM To: Ann Kattreh Subject: Winter recreation at Braemer Hello We are unable to come to the meeting tonight due to my upcoming surgery in the morning but we are in full support of a winter recreational area at Braemer Park. We live about 1 mile away and would use the cross country skiing/walking trails on a regular basis. Thank you. Susan and Bill Parham Life is short. Good life even shorter. Live, love and laugh all you can every day. Sent from my iPad 1 Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Friday, July 15, 2016 7:52 AM To: 'Kristin Kiser Reichling' Cc: Edina Mail; Janet Canton Subject: RE: Proposed Braemar Park Winter Recreational Area Hi Kristin, Thank you for your feedback. I will forward your email to both the Park Board and City Council. Sincerely, Ann Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattrehEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Kristin Kiser Reichling [mailto:kristinareichling(agmail.corn] Sent: Thursday, July 14, 2016 9:53 PM To: Ann Kattreh Subject: Proposed Braemar Park Winter Recreational Area Hello Ann, I am not in supportive of this proposal. I am an avid winter sports enthusiast; however, the benefits do not outweigh the detriments: • Cost model with a break-even point 5-10 years out • Noise and light pollution • Significant, on-going required maintenance • Material loss of trees and subsequently, wild life • Man-made snow will blow on to Gleason Road, causing safety concerns and additional city plowing • Impacts to residents who must clear man-made snow from their properties From what I can tell, the Edina HS nordic team seems to be the primary benefactor of this proposal. It doesn't appear that any other interest group is asking for this scale of added amenities. Further, we have many lakes and ponds in the city that have been deteriorating over time. We need to spend money maintaining our existing park land and water. Finally, the irony of this proposal is palpable: making man-made snow contributes to global warming, which causes waiiiier temperatures, which causes rain instead of snow and also results in temperatures that are too waini to make snow. It seems to me that this proposal is already baked and ready to go. I hope the City of Edina will seriously consider citizen input when making a decision on this proposal. From what I can tell based on the open house, there aren't too many citizens who are advocating for this other than those associated with the high school nordic team. 1 Thank you for your time, Kristin Reichling Normandale Park 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Friday, July 15, 2016 9:25 AM Subject: FW: Building a Healthy Community through Mountain Biking Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Jack Ellingson [mailto:ellingsonjack@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, July 14, 2016 10:15 PM To: James Hovland Subject: Building a Healthy Community through Mountain Biking Hello Mr Hovland, My name is Jack Ellingson. As a senior at Edina High School, I'm one of the captains of the Edina Cycling Team. I personally know the many benefits cycling can bring to a community. Cycling can unite and strengthen the mental, physical, and social health of a community. Cycling can also inspire kids to peruse careers in STEM by actively engaging them with the complex mechanics found on a bicycle. These are just a few of the many benefits cycling will bring to Edina. Unfortunately I was not able to make it to the city council meeting last Tuesday due to a commitment at work. This means I was unable to convey how much Edina wants mountain bike trails built at Braemar. I would be ecstatic if you would be wiling to meet with me to further discuss building trails at Braemar and the benefits they would bring to our community. Thanks, Jack Ellingson Captain of the Edina Cycling Team Leader of FIRST Robotics Team 1816 - The Green Machine )(c June 27, 2016 Dear Resident: I would like to invite you to the Braemar Park Winter Recreational Area Open House. The open house is scheduled for Wednesday, July 13 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the City of Edina's Public Works facility. This open house is an opportunity for residents to review, discuss and provide feedback on the proposed Winter Recreational Area at Braemar Park. The Winter Recreational Facility proposal includes 3K of lighted man-made snow Nordic ski trails with a potential snow tubing area. The man-made snow Nordic trails would connect to a natural snow multi-use trail system around and through the Braemar Golf Course. The man-made snow trails could also be utilized for fat tire biking. During the non-snow months walking trails would be available in Braemar Park and the addition of mountain biking trails is being explored. The proposed map of the cross-country ski trails and tubing hills are included with this letter. You are welcome and encouraged to attend the open house to share your views on the proposed plan. We value ideas and feedback provided by the residents in Edina. If you are unable to attend the open house, please submit your comments in writing either by postal mail or email at the address shown below. The proposed map and other information on the project can be found on our website at www.edinamn.gov/winterrecbraemar. The website is being updated regularly, so please check back for up-to- date information. The City Council will also be holding a public hearing regarding the proposed Winter Recreation Area during the City Council meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 7. In addition to city staff, members of our consulting team will be making a presentation and will be available for questions. I look forward to meeting you on Wednesday, July 13 at 7 p.m. at the City of Edina Public Works facility, located at 7450 Metro Blvd, Edina MN 55439. ()LH-1-di; Scx pa (76- cox --rt‘k atejol,d-r 0 s-) --- 0 1)AQ irsck, Sincerely, Ann Kattreh Parks & Recreation Director 4801 W. 506 Street Edina, MN 55424 akattrehedinamn.gov PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT 4801 West 50th Street . Edina, Minnesota 55424 www.EdinaParks.com • 952-826-0367 • Fax 952-826-0385 Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Monday, July 18, 2016 8:31 AM To: Edina Mail; Janet Canton Subject: FW: winter recreation For City Council and Park Board Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattreh@EdinaMN.gov j www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Susan Schultz [mailto:susankschultzphd@gmail.com] Sent: Friday, July 15, 2016 6:37 PM To: Ann Kattreh Subject: winter recreation Hello Ann, I was unable to come to the meeting on Wed regarding the proposed winter recreational area at Braemar. I want to let you know that I think this is a good idea. It is not so clear to me how the man made snow trail could be built to be multi- use unless there are areas specified for each sport served. Nordic skiers are best served by a trail that has space for skate skiing and tracks for classic skiing. Fat tire bikes and walking on the nordic trails would make them difficult to ski. Susan Susan K. Schultz, Ph.D. Office: 952.842.0299 Mobile: 952.412.4472 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, July 18, 2016 10:20 AM Subject: FW: Opposition to Braemar Winter Activities Development Plan Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Karen Hazel [nriailto:karenahazel@msn.com] Sent: Friday, July 15, 2016 5:55 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Opposition to Braemar Winter Activities Development Plan Good Afternoon City Council Members: I write to you all to express my opposition to the proposed re-development of the Braemar Golf Course to introduce Nordic ski trails for public and Edina Public School use. As a resident of the Braemar Hills area (right on Gleason Road, in fact), I attended the July 13th informational meeting with an open mind. After the meeting adjourned, I felt as if public trust in our community leaders had been somewhat breached. The basis for my objection to this proposal is multi-faceted. First, from a financial perspective, it is a losing proposition, aiming to "barely break even, hopefully within 5-7 years," as one presenter stated. It is clear, too, that the City will not likely recover its capital expenditure. On top of this, it translates to yet again more taxation of the voters/residents. As if that weren't enough, we learned that the plan, if implemented, would introduce both noise and light pollution, and potentially, a trespass on private property (in the form of unwanted ice crystals showering down on private homes and properties). Further, trees will die if this is implemented, but presenters were unable to provide more detail other than "probably hundreds (of trees)." The displacement and killing-off of wildlife is also a given, but presenters had little to offer on why the City would be willing to negatively impact green space for this purpose. To do this is entirely contrary to the City's stated objective--and promise to its residents--to become and remain a GreenStep City, "committed to taking proactive steps to improve the environment." (Source: City of Edina website, "Go Green" section.) How decimating precious acreage of nature and natural landscape, while draining water supply and running electrical equipment to create snow (ice) aligns with this stated commitment escapes me. There are other concerns, which appear to remain unaddressed. Some residents asserted at the meeting that the abandoned well that would be used to create snow is contaminated. Next, if this project were to come to fruition, adding 1.5' of snow to an elevated area would naturally mean runoff and melting...where would it go? Cascading down on Gleason Road to exacerbate icy conditions? As one resident discussed just today with Councilman Staunton, what about the "sinkage" risk? Drilling down to install huge piping and then draining 1 underground reservoirs of water could create a potential "sinkage" risk to properties on Gleason Road and beyond, where that is already happening. This brings us to the public safety hazard spraying man-made ice crystals onto Gleason Road introduces to the public at-large. Gleason Road is a state-supported road, as you know, so there is no size-limitation to vehicles using it. We get it all: flatbed trucks, cement mixers, and motorists speeding to work in the icy, early morning hours. Check Edina Police records. We experience car crashes on Gleason every winter. Cars take out mailboxes, light posts, fire hydrants; one year, a motorist was side-swiped by a speeder and her car overturned after driving up the retaining wall. Is the City of Edina really willing to be in the business of spraying 1/8" - 1/4" of ice crystals on Gleason Road on top of already treacherous conditions? The City is already aware of the propensity for motor vehicle accidents on this road; last year, the City agreed to install a "25 mph" sign before the southbound curve on Gleason near Bonnie Brae, because of so many accidents. I would argue that should this project proceed and should catastrophe occur, and a child waiting for a school bus on Gleason become injured, the City would face the "knew or should have known" standard in the wake of such a tragedy. The residents around Braemar are now aware that in 2012, Craig Jarvinen, Edina Nordic Ski Team (then) Assistant Coach prepared an extensive proposal, which presumably was sent to the City, to construct a similar ski trail/s around Creek Valley Elementary. Obviously, that didn't happen. But this leads to the reasonable inference that this project has been gaining attention through sheer perseverance. While that's admirable, there is a glaring problem with "relocating" this endeavor to Braemar. First, this project smacks of entertaining the wants of a few at the expense, inconvenience and detriment of the many. Next, I would argue that the benefits of this proposed facility, if you will, are grossly eclipsed by the risks it would create to public safety, the material decline of quality-of-life for Braemar residents, and irrevocable injury to nature. Additionally, it seems as if those who support this idea, or say "Sounds fun!" are more likely to live in an Edina neighborhood that would not feel the pain of the construction, and the aftermath, of this endeavor. I ask each of you: if you lived in the Braemar or Dewey Hill neighborhoods, would you want to be across the street from the construction phase? Would you want to live within earshot of snow machines grinding for up to 5 hours a night??? Overnight lighting that requires you to shut blinds and shades to keep out? Please be assured we are not objecting to an effort to refine the nature/walking paths for biking, etc. Braemar was designed to create a natural, almost "sanctuary-like" option for residents to experience nature, sport and wildlife close by. But to rip up the natural landscape so 200 students "don't have to wake up at 6am to get to Hyland trails" (as cited by the coach who attended the 7/13 meeting) is not only insulting to those of us directly impacted, but it would also result in a disparate impact on our neighborhood, a diverse and growing community with residents from all walks of life. It is for this reason that many of us believe the Council should not equally weigh feedback from residents across the board, but rather, the Council should give greater weight and consideration to the voice of those residents most severely and directly impacted by this proposal. Braemar residents are now more aware of this proposal, and in light of the potential hazards, nuisances, trespasses, and decimation of natural land (not to mention the negative impact on property values), and the dismissive nature of the SEH consultant's presentation ("just go ahead and bump that extra ice off your own driveways, is all"), we are organizing to ensure that our opposition is heard and appropriately considered. 2 We'll suggest an alternative approach: The City of Edina could partner with Bloomington to "sponsor" enhancements to Hyland in a co-op type arrangement that would afford EHS students improved access to the existing (and paid-for) trails just six minutes from Braemar. Creativity can go a long way to address the ski team's wishes. With all due respect, this project is problematic on so many levels, creating nothing short of upheaval for our neighborhood, for what seems like the novelty of mimicking a facility less than six-minutes from Braemar...it's difficult to find justification or reasoning as to why this would be a good idea. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully, Karen A. Hazel Edina 3 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, July 18, 2016 10:29 AM Subject: FW: Sidewalks vs Winter Recreation Area Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoREdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Laura Kondrick [mailto:lkondrick(ayahoo.com] Sent: Sunday, July 17, 2016 12:14 PM To: Edina Mail; bstewartOedinamn.gov; Mary Brindle; Kevin Staunton; Ann Swenson; James Hovland Subject: Sidewalks vs Winter Recreation Area Dear Mayor and Council Members, I am strongly opposed the the proposed winter recreation area development. (June 21 City Council Meeting Presentation.) We can't afford it! To date the city has spent/approved about $10 million in improvements to the Braemar golf course and clubhouse. The winter recreation area and its ongoing and expensive operations costs.would be on top of thatl I am in favor of accelerated sidewalk improvements. Sidewalks is where the money should go! Thank you for fairly reviewing this proposal against other priorities. Laura Kondrick 6115 Lincoln Drive, Unit 251, Edina, MN 55436 ---<--{(@ 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, July 18, 2016 10:38 AM Subject: FW: opposition to Braemar project Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Nick Seivert [mailto:drnickseivert@gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, July 17, 2016 6:08 PM To: Edina Mail Cc: Nicole kirkwood Subject: opposition to Braemar project Dear Mayor Hovland and City Council Members, We are writing to express our concern and opposition to the proposed project to add cross-country ski trails and snow tubing hills at Braemar. My wife and I moved to Edina 2 years ago in anticipation of starting a family. I joined a small private practice group of doctoral level psychologists in Edina specializing in the evidence-based treatment of anxiety, my wife accepted the position of elementary/middle school counselor at Groves Academy, and we purchased a home at 6604 Gleason Road. We were drawn to Edina for its top-notch schools and reputation as a family-oriented, tight-knit community. Two months ago we were lucky enough to give birth to a healthy baby girl! While we remain excited to be a part of this community, we are becoming increasingly concerned about the safety of our family and neighborhood children as a result of two accidents on our property since October 2015, vehicles sliding into our yard/sidewalk on snowy winter days, other accidents up the road, and increased traffic and dangerous driving concurrent with the highway and high school construction. Proposing a project that would increase traffic on Gleason Road and compromise the driving conditions reflects a disregard for basic safety of the community. News of the Braemar development has come at a difficult time for us, a time at which we are particularly impassioned to advocate for safety issues. Two weeks ago we were witness to a horrific accident on our property that shook us to our core. A vehicle exiting from highway 62 traveled south on Gleason Road at a high speed, blew by stop signs and passed cars in the process, and swerved into our yard to avoid a head on collision with a northbound car containing a teenager and two children. In the process the vehicle broadsided a second car, sending it into a boulder wall in the middle of our yard, totaling the car and moving thousand-pound boulders. The vehicle then ran over a city rock wall and was launched over our driveway and our 5-foot retaining wall. It knocked over 4 trees before crumpling. I called the police; I was sure that the driver had just died in our new front yard. Everyone who witnessed the accident was shocked that the driver lived. We were extremely lucky that we did not leave for a walk down Gleason Road a minute earlier; our baby was already in her stroller and we were ready to go. This event may have been traumatic for residents of the neighborhood and should have been tragic. We are well aware of the dangers of living on a busy street that connects major highways. However, in the context of accidents on our property and neighborhood, as well as the obvious increased dangerous driving as a result of increased truck and pedestrian traffic on Gleason Road, we implore you to discontinue a project that would increase the chances of families and children being hurt or killed in our neighborhood. Sincerely, Nick Seivert and Nicole Kirkwood 6604 Gleason Road Edina, MN 55439 Nick Seivert, Ph.D., L.P. Licensed Psychologist Anxiety Treatment Resources 3300 Edinborough Way, Suite 650 Edina, MN 55435 (952) 854-2622 Fax: (952) 854-3293 DrNickSeivert@gmail.com www.DrNickSeivert.com 2 Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 12:29 PM To: Edina Mail; Janet Canton Subject: FW: Edin. Park Please send to the Park Board and City Council Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattrehEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: mickey wood [mailto:museumfan68@gmail.corn] Sent: Monday, July 18, 2016 2:14 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Edin. Park My family and I were recently located to Austin, MN. I was so delighted to find Edinborough Park. It was a life saver during the Winter and now during the hot days of summer. I never expected to be driving to Edina regularly. However, Edina has created something spectacular and it meets the specific need of MN citizens for a fun, safe and engaging space on cold, hot and rainy days. The Park also serves those from surrounding communities (such as Austin, MN). I can't recall anything like this in Des Moines or Chicago. Edina really keyed into the need of the public for a great, multifunctional indoor space that encourages both physical and emotional wellness. Edina has made it possible for families to have fun, become engaged and be activity regardless of the Minnesota weather. Well done. Thank you. Sincerely, Sheila Hanke Austin, MN 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 1:17 PM Subject: FW: New petition to you: KEEP EDINA'S BRAEMAR GREEN AND SAFE! Good afternoon, This message has been forwarded to the Mayor and Council members. Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Joshua Ahlberg [mailto:mail@changemail.org] Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 12:06 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: New petition to you: KEEP EDINA'S BRAEMAR GREEN AND SAFE! change.ori`S New petition The Edina City Council — Joshua Ahlberg started a petition on Change.org and listed you as a decision maker. Learn more about Joshua Ahlberg's petition and how you can respond. The Edina City Council: KEEP EDINA'S BRAEMAR GREEN AND SAFE! Petition by Joshua Ahlberg • Started Jul 19, 2016 City of Edina, Minnesota -- 4801 West 50th Street • Edina, Minnesota 5542 (952) 927-8861 • (952) 927-7645 FAX • (612) 927-5461 TDD PETITION TO THE CITY COUNCIL To the... Read more WHAT YOU CAN DO 1. View the petition Learn about the petition and its supporters. You will receive updates as new supporters sign the petition so you can see who is signing and why. 2. Respond to the petition Post a response to let the petition supporters know you're listening, 1 say whether you agree with their call to action, or ask them for more information. 3. Continue the dialogue Read the comments posted by petition supporters and continue the dialogue so that others can see you're an engaged leader who is willing to participate in open discussion. CHANGE.ORG FOR DECISION MAKERS On Change.org, decision makers like you connect directly with people around the world to resolve issues. Learn more This notification was sent to Mail@EdinaMN goy, the address listed as the decision maker contact by the petition starter. If this is incorrect, please post a response to let the petition starter know. Change.org • 548 Market St #29993, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 1:23 PM Subject: FW: Proposal VERY BAD IDEA- NO Thanks!! Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Sabre Family [mailto:sabrefamily952(&gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 1:11 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Proposal VERY BAD IDEA- NO Thanks!! After receiving a paper in my mailbox explaining the proposal for Winter rec braemar and the details of the proposed project, I am appalled that the city would even consider such a ridiculous waste of money! To pay to ruin our city and green space is an atrocity! We would be stuck with visual pollution is the space where our gorgeous trees are located. As we bike and walk along Braemar on almost a daily basis, this is a horrendous idea and I am guessing that someone is set up to make a pocket full of money if this is approved?? Shame on them!!! Please take this off the table and close it down now! Regards, Mary Sabre 5811 Shannon Drive Edina, 55439 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 1:23 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Bean, Babette [mailto:BabetteBean@edinarealty.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 1:22 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Dear Council Members, Why are you saddling future residents with this Nordic project that is not needed in EDINA? Can't you landscape France Avenue, fix up Southdale mess, and improve downtown Edina sidewalks, ramps and streets? There are many places for Nordic skiing in Minnesota and our Creek is also ideal for that. Who is dreaming up this crazy project for the city of Edina? Money is not being well spent. The upkeep will be so expensive and for what??Please do not allow this to transpire. Thank you. Sincerely, Babette Bean 952-924-8722, Realtor Chairman's Circle Click here to download my mobile app to find homes Sent from my iPad 1 Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 2:15 PM To: Edina Mail; Janet Canton Subject: FW: Feedback on Proposed Winter Recreation Area at Braemar Council and park board Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattreh@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Marcella McIntyre [mailto:marcellaemcintyre@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 12:51 PM To: Ann Kattreh Subject: Feedback on Proposed Winter Recreation Area at Braemar Dear Ms. Kattreh: I recently became aware of the proposal for a winter recreation area at Braemar because of a letter that you sent in early July. I was unable to attend the July 13th meeting to discuss the project, but did watch video of the June 21st City Council meeting at which you, Paul Pasko, SCH Engineering, and Dave Belin, RRC Associates, spoke about the proposal. I am writing to share my concerns about the proposed project. First, as a resident of the Braemar Hills neighborhood, I'm concerned about the potential negative impact on the neighborhood due to increased noise, light and traffic. My understanding is that there will be noise caused by snow- making machines that will run at least twice per season as well as the trail grooming which will be done every night. The grooming machines have a noise level that is the same as larger lawn mower and it will be done at night after the trails close.There is also the negative impact of the 12-foot light poles with LED lights that will be placed every 100 feet or so along the trails. Homes on Gleason Road and Tanglewood Court will see spray from blowing snow and ice. I'm also concerned by the plans to host events at the new space and the increased traffic and congestion in the neighborhood that they could bring. What is the planned frequency of such events? Next, this project presents environmental and health risks. The proposed cross-country trails will be 25 feet wide, as they will need to be wide enough for large snow-making equipment to fit. How many trees will need to be destroyed for this to be accomplished? I'm concerned about the destruction of the wooded area and loss of habitat. What is being done to minimize this destruction? Further, the proposal includes using an existing municipal well for snow making. This well has known radon issues and no longer supplies water to city for that reason. Have there been any studies done on the potential hazards of using this well for snow making? Radon gas is a known carcinogen. Additionally, given the size of the snow-making equipment, transformers and fuse boxes, and the amount of water needed, snow-making is not an environmentally friendly endeavor The overall financials also seem problematic. The project has an estimated cost of $3M. With both tubing and Nordic (the stronger option), the project would barely break even in year one and would barely be making a profit in year five. The financial models presented are largely dependent on the tubing hills — and as Mr. Pasko noted, Nordic is not a money maker; tubing is. However, the success of the tubing hill and demand for this type of winter recreation area also seem speculative. The consultants admitted that the proposed 25-foot hills are smaller than comparative hills in the area (and they proposed charging less than other regional hills because of this), and both Mr. Hovland and Mr. Stewart questioned whether that size hill would even be a draw for visitors. In addition, when questioned about the market and demand for this type of recreation area, Mr. Belin did not provide concrete numbers but indicated that there "seems" to be a big demand for the winter activities based on his conversations with various individuals. It was unclear whether there were associations that could be a potential revenue stream for the ski trails like the many youth and other groups who use the Braemar sports dome. There are also many existing trails nearby. Just south of the proposed trail, the Hyland area in Bloomington has great downhill skiing and snowboarding and approximately 10.8k of cross-country ski trails. Further,www.skiinyski.com shows additional cross-country ski trails that are nearby, including 7.5k at Starling Lake in Eden Prairie, 4k at Woodlake in Richfiedl and 25K at Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis. Can this area support another winter ski area and one that we plan to charge people a premium for (Mr. Belin indicated that they anticipate having a higher daily ticket price for cross-country than other facilities in the area)? What market research has been done? I believe the parks and natural areas in Edina are one of our city's greatest assets. The natural, untouched woods to the east of Braemar golf course are one of these assets. I don't think we should rush to build a winter recreation area that residents do not need nor want just because the golf course will be under construction and the high school ski team is apparently in need of a practice area (though they are able to practice at Hyland one day per week). As Ms. Brindle said at the July 21 meeting, this project is not in the budget. It also will not be "cherished" by Edina residents. I would welcome any further information you can provide about the project. Thank you for consideration. Very truly yours, Marcella McIntyre 6920 Gleason Road 2 Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 2:17 PM To: Edina Mail; Janet Canton Subject: FW: Braemar winter rec project City Council and Park Board Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattrehP,EdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMNsov From: Sabre Family [mailto:sabrefamily952@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 1:14 PM To: Ann Kattreh Subject: Braemar winter rec project Hi, I just came across more detailed information on the Braemar Winter Rec project and am appalled that this is even a proposal. To ruin our beautiful green space which are already very few and far between for some visual pollution and actually pay 3 million dollars to ruin it is a travesty waiting to happen. Very few people would actually use it and it would ruin our community in a very big way. There is a mass email and mailbox paper mail going around telling everyone in our community and we are all very upset about this proposal! Please take it off of the table and shut it down! Regards, Mary Sabre Edina resident Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 3:41 PM Subject: FW: Nordic Ski Trail Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Lorraine Hanson [mailto:tobylhanson@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 3:33 PM To: James Hovland Subject: Nordic Ski Trail Dear Mayor Hovland, I am an Edina resident and I strongly oppose the development of a Nordic ski trail at Braemar Golf Course. I do not support this project as it will disrupt established neighborhoods in the area as well as injure precious green space. It is inconceivable that the City Council would support a project that will create noise and road and sidewalk hazards due to snow-making machines. Furthermore, the project is stated to be an expensive yet losing proposition financially. I ASK YOU TO VOTE NO ON THIS PROJECT. I ask that you consider more environmentally friendly (and less costly) ways to enhance Braemar for public use: mountain biking trails, hiking, etc. Please redirect this funding to other, higher-priority level projects that improve (not diminish) public safety, or which impose no such damaging impacts on the environment or residents. Thank you, Lorraine Hanson 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 3:41 PM Subject: FW: proposed Braemar trails Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: bowles5@comcast.net [mailto:bowles5@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 3:20 PM To: Mary Brindle; James Hovland; Kevin Staunton; Robert Stewart; swensonannl@gmail.com Subject: proposed Braemar trails Dear Edina City Council members, I am taking the time to express my concern over the proposed nordic/mountain bike trails and tubing hill at Braemar Golf Course. I have been a resident of Edina on Mark Terrace Drive since 1998 and I utilize the golf course for snowshoeing, cross country skiing and walking 5 days/week in the winter. During the summer I walk the trails off of Gleason and Dewey Hill and relish in the fact that it is one of the last remaining green spaces/nature areas left untouched in our city. My husband and I chose our location specifically to take advantage of the outdoor areas. We researched areas in Edina where we could be outside in the quiet of the trees. I am actually quite alarmed at thinking about what the proposed development could do to our city. My first concern is obviously the impact it would have on the forestry and wildlife surrounding Braemar Gold course. We have such precious green space in this city that there are few relocation options for the wildlife. Secondly, the addition of these activities means more traffic into the area. There would be a significant impact for those in the neighboring communities accessing their homes.ln addition, Dewey Hill/Gleason are not adept at handling the volume of traffic that it would bring. The feeder streets including W. 78th St, Cahill Rd and Valley View Rd already see a volume of traffic that they cannot adequately handle. Lastly, the lighting required for the trails/tubing hill, in addition to snow making equipment, would have a negative impact on the surrounding homes and safety of streets. I would expect property values to show a decline, as there is just no feasible way of keeping the lights from affecting homes and noisy plows addressing negative road conditions from snow making endeavors. I am a proponent of growth in our city. I just feel that the cost of this project and the negative impact to the green space/residents do not outweigh the positives. I would hope that alternatives are being considered for creating opportunities for outdoor activity in Edina. Why not groom additional lanes on the current Braemar Golf Course land and create a trail system on already existing space? Braemar is woefully underutilized in the winter. I would assume that a cross country ski trail recreation area is being considered at the closed Fred Richards site. Currently there is already a natural tubing hill on the gold course that residents use daily on the corner of Dewey Hill and Gleason. I understand the financial piece in bringing more revenue to our city, but this also brings more people, traffic, destruction and potentially crime.This project has benefits, but at what cost to the current residents 1 who pay taxes and chose to live here long ago for the safety, green space, and quiet of Edina. I oppose the development of nordic ski trails, mountain bike trails and snow tubing hill at Braemar Gold Course. Thank you for your time and consideration on this matter. I am very appreciative of your dedication to our city. Sincerely, Ashley Bowles 7101 Mark Terrace Drive 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, July 20, 2016 9:22 AM Subject: FW: Vote no Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Joy Risse [mailtoloyrisse@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 8:30 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Vote no Please vote no to proposed Nordic trails plan which includes snow making machines and lighted trails. I object to the noisy machines which are operated during nighttime hours especially, to the lighted trails which are available close by, to the huge expenditure of money to build and maintain this facility, to Edina building more fee-based recreational opportunities which my family would seldom participate in. I do expect my community to provide opportunities for recreation - spaces for kids, dogs and families to have fun without paying fees. We can go elsewhere for commercial recreation. Joy Risse 6808 Chapel Lane 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, July 20, 2016 9:25 AM Subject: FW: Proposed Nordic ski track Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Elsing [mailto:Ipelsing@usfamily.net] Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2016 11:05 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Proposed Nordic ski track Council Members, We would like to express our opposition to the proposed Nordic ski track plan. Thank you. John & Phylis Elsing 7202 Shannon Drive Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2016 8:28 AM Subject: FW: Nordic Ski Track Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno(&.EdinaMN.00v I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Joseph Chambers [mailto:joseph@apgraphinc.com] Sent: Wednesday, July 20, 2016 4:12 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Nordic Ski Track I'm writing to voice my extreme opposition to the Nordic Ski Track. In my opinion, this would be a very bad way to spend tax dollars. Have any of you driven on Valley View Road between Gleason and the new roundabout by Braemar? Valley View Road was redone when they put in the roundabout... but only up to Mark Terrace. Between Mark Terrace and Gleason, Valley View Road is in absolutely horrible condition. Is there any plan to fix that stretch of Valley View Road in the near future? My guess is... the answer is "no"... and the excuse is "not enough funding". Until you can fix this important and heavily used road, it's ridiculous to even consider spending $3,000,000 on a Nordic Ski Track. Joseph Chambers 6900 Dakota Trail 1 Google Maps Tesla SeNre Sioux Trail .*Iaxx Trampoline SN & Fun Center h. C ampionsdli Sport & Ever: .7ef1ter Paiute i-33 Try a fast, secure browser with updates built in http googlecom/rn -H39202,16,31z Yes, get Chrome now No, not interested Valley View r?,-/ \lam \JP gie Hilar. 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2016 8:34 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Nordic Ski, tubing development Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Jody Olsen [mailto:Jody@WinnesotaRT.conn] Sent: Wednesday, July 20, 2016 6:48 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Nordic Ski, tubing development Council members I am writing to ask each of you to vote a resounding NO for the proposed redevelopment of Braemar into a Nordic ski track and tubing area. The city doesn't need anything like this and the vast majority does not want it. No one asked for it. Very wasteful use of taxpayers money not to mention the environment. Stop turning every last piece of green space into a development. Sincerely, Jody Olsen Sent from my iPad 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2016 8:36 AM Subject: FW: Property taxes Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: J. Gerry Briggs [mailto:gbriggs63@aol.com] Sent: Wednesday, July 20, 2016 7:09 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Property taxes City leaders- thank you for accepting input, currently regarding the Nordic skiing proposal as related to property taxes. This is to enter a household opposed to the expense of establishing and then operating this winter time activity. The local newspaper recently reported that city administrators and perhaps council members were concerned that the citizens were upset at the level of property taxes. After all, compared with neighborhood cities Edina taxes are relatively low. That is not however as these residents see the situation. That the property tax base has increased significantly in recent years has been acknowledged. Those in positions of power have chosen to spend the revenue provided by this increase as opposed to using that money to reduce property taxes. So when it is reported that there have been high level administrative positions added, when significant additions have been added to hockey facilities which also require operating subsides, when bike lanes are added throughout with disruption of normal traffic, when consideration is being given to a "Community Center" ,etc., what is one to think other than increased spending is the name of the game at City Hall? So now you know why comparison among neighboring cities carries little weight with these Edina residents. Please consider uses for income resulting from increased property values than spending it-you may have happier community members. Sincerely-Gerry and Corrinne Briggs Sent from my iPad 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2016 11:10 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Gof Course Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Linda Berg [nnailto:moxie911(agmail.com] Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2016 10:32 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Gof Course NO...this family, on Shannon Drive...does not want: 50 foot wide Nordic ski track, Braemar Golf Course. NO noise, No runoff ice, No taxes...NO NO NO...enough noise from 494...Mrs. J. Moxie911@gmail.com 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2016 2:12 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Golf Course Ski Hill Project Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno©EdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Edward Janiga [mailto:edwardOjaniga.corn] Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2016 12:43 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Golf Course Ski Hill Project My name is Edward Janiga and I live at 7024 Wexford Road in Edina. The purpose of this e-mail is to express my opposition to any additional projects resulting in ANY increased property taxes. Our property taxes went up an incredible 25% from 2015 to 2016 and any additional increases cannot be justified in my opinion. Your job is to make and Edina a wonderful, livable community (includes affordability) and not simply the one with the most "stuff". We have had enough of the constant request for additional projects that provide no direct, and in my opinion no indirect, benefits to us. In addition to the simplistic argument that the City of Edina should not constantly be looking for ways to spend the taxpayers' monies without a outpouring of request from City residents, I am opposed for several other reasons: 1. We are currently having to deal with delays, road hazards and debris and construction dirt/dust with the ridiculous roundabout project on Tracy Avenue (just south of 62). 2. The main reason I moved to our area was that it was secluded, quiet and dark. Especially in winter (without leaves on the tree), we are already exposed to a much higher amount of noise and light than we moved in about 11 years ago. Any additional light pollution would significantly reduce our enjoyment of our Edina home. I cannot imagine the effect on the winter evening sky that the required lighting for a ski hill would have. We already have to deal with seeing that white blob of a golf dome as we look out our south facing windows that used to provide us a beautiful view in the winter. 3. Hasn't enough money already been spent on Braemar improvements already that will never be recovered in user fees (I am not a golfer but that is what I hear from many Braemar users) 4. I use Gleason Road extensively on my way to the office. As a CPA, I am working very long hours and would very concerned about the ice build up caused by the snow making equipment. I used to live near Buck Hill in Burnsville and know first hand how dangerous the snow making equipment can make the roads. 5. There are already several cross country trails in the City that do not have much usage and there is another nordic ski hill nearly in Bloomington. Please concentrate your efforts and spend the valuable taxpayer's dollars on the priorities of the city based on feedback from your residents and not from outside developers. Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Friday, July 22, 2016 8:57 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Park: Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.00v I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Benson, Michael (RBC Wealth Mgmt - US) [mailto:michael.benson&bc.corn] Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2016 5:05 PM To: Ann Kattreh Cc: James Hovland; Robert Stewart; Kevin Staunton; swensonann1@igmail.com; Mary Brindle Subject: Braemar Park: Ann and Council members, My name is Michael Benson, Edina resident. I attended the open house on the proposed Nordic skiing and tubing project last week. As a resident across the street from the proposed project at 7401 Gleason Road, this could have a direct impact on my family and I. I have 3 kids under the age of 14. Traffic on that corner is already heavy. Construction trucks going to and from golf course, carbon monoxide from exhaust, and noise, that is already bad. This is a residential area, not commercial. The traffic will only increase as the West bound on-ramp to 494 at West Bush lake road will likely create a "cut-through" during rush hour. Blow over from the snow making equipment could potentially create a public hazard as my children wait for the bus on the corner each morning during the school year. Another issue in question is the property values for the homes on Gleason Road. If you lived across the street from this project, do you think your property value would increase or decrease due to the proposed increase in activity? i.e. Noise from snow machines, lights for night-time use, kids voices carrying until late at night... As for the proposed Nordic skiing project, in the meeting you mentioned 200 students would be the primary users. With a city population of approx.. 45,000 people, 200 students represent less that 1/2 of 1% of the Edina residents. 200 dividend by 45,000 is .0044%. Should we as a city spend $3,000,000 on a project that less that 1/2 of 1% of the population would potentially use? I think we should seriously consider re-evaluating this idea. Thank you, Michael Benson Michael Benson RBC Wealth Management First Vice President - Financial Advisor Portfolio Manager 7650 Edinborough Way Ste 800 Edina MN 55435 Direct - 952.838.7026 Toll Free - 800.888.3246 Fax - 952.838.7090 My Website https://www.rbcwmfa.com/michael.benson/ RBC Wealth Management does not accept buy, sell, or cancel orders by email, or any instructions by email that would require your signature. Please visit RBC Wealth Management Email Disclosures for material details about our products and accounts, as well as for other important information. Disclosure information regarding potential conflicts of interest on the part of RBC Capital Markets, LLC in connection with companies that are the subject of any third-party research report included in this email message may be found at Third-Party Research Disclosures. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Friday, July 22, 2016 10:07 AM Subject: FW: Nordic Ski Track Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno(aEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Joseph Chambers [mailto:joseph@apgraphinc.com] Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2016 5:13 PM To: Chad Millner; Edina Mail Cc: Mark K. Nolan Subject: RE: Nordic Ski Track Chad, Thanks for your reply. If you haven't recently done so, please drive on Valley View Road from the new Braemar roundabout up to Gleason and think about it not being in your 5 year window for reconstruction. If there are other roads around our city in even worse condition, then Edina needs to reexamine how funding is dedicated... using common sense priorities. You must realize how silly "separate funding sources not linked to each other" sounds to someone who isn't in government. We have fantastic schools, beautiful homes, and wonderful parks... but when our roads are in disrepair... it reflects poorly on our city. When we build a $3,000,000 Nordic Ski Track right next to our roads that are in disrepair... it reflects poorly on our judgement. I appreciate you taking the time to hear my opinion. Joseph Chambers From: Chad Millner [mailto:cmillner0EdinaMN.gov] Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2016 1:59 PM To: joseph@apgraphinc.comT; Edina Mail Cc: Mark K. Nolan Subject: FW: Nordic Ski Track Joseph, Thanks for the comments shown below. I was asked to respond. Valley View Road is not in our 5-yr window for reconstruction. We have different classifications of roads in town that have different funding sources. VVRD is a MSA route so 80% of the funding is from the state. That funding is very limited. The potential ski trail project would not use any funding that is dedicated to street reconstruction. These are separate funding sources not linked to each other. Thanks for the note, Chad 1 Chad Millner, Director of Engineering 952-826-0318 I Fax 952-826-0392 cmillnerEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Joseph Chambers [mailto:joseph@apgraphinc.com] Sent: Wednesday, July 20, 2016 4:12 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Nordic Ski Track I'm writing to voice my extreme opposition to the Nordic Ski Track. In my opinion, this would be a very bad way to spend tax dollars. Have any of you driven on Valley View Road between Gleason and the new roundabout by Braemar? Valley View Road was redone when they put in the roundabout... but only up to Mark Terrace. Between Mark Terrace and Gleason, Valley View Road is in absolutely horrible condition. Is there any plan to fix that stretch of Valley View Road in the near future? My guess is... the answer is "no"... and the excuse is "not enough funding". Until you can fix this important and heavily used road, it's ridiculous to even consider spending $3,000,000 on a Nordic Ski Track. Joseph Chambers 6900 Dakota Trail 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Friday, July 22, 2016 1:50 PM Subject: FW: Voting "NO" Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Reg Schroeder [mailto:rdsjms2@gmail.com] Sent: Friday, July 22, 2016 12:10 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Voting "NO" Edina City Council We live on Mark Terrace Drive. We often drive down Gleason Road and past Braemar Golf Course. We do not want icy roads to drive on and really do not want trees removed from the few wooded area left in our area. Please don't turn our neighborhood into a ski jump or whatever is being considered. We want our neighborhood to remain quiet and safe. Thank you, Reg Schroeder and Joan Schroeder 7004 Mark Terrace Drive, Edina, MN 55439 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Friday, July 22, 2016 1:55 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Winter Rec Project Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Martin, Dawn [mailto:Dawn.Martin@biworldwide.com] Sent: Friday, July 22, 2016 12:39 PM To: James Hovland Cc: Ric Dressen; Bruce.Locklear@edinaschools.orq; Catherine Asta; Kerry Dressen; Keane Chris and Harlan Limpert; Ge Joey and Wufei >; Rob Martin; richard black Subject: Braemar Winter Rec Project Hi Jim - We've met a few times at different city functions — I am the President of the Edina Soccer Club and presented Jeff Northrup with your Volunteer Award last year. I am reaching out to you on behalf of my neighborhood — Tanglewood Court. We are very concerned about the Braemar Winter Rec project and the impact it will have on our homes, our lifestyles and our home values. The cross country trail, as far as we can tell, will take away our beautiful wooded views and replace them with lights, skiers looking in our windows, and noisy snow blowers. Not to mention the icy fallout from the snow makers. We were wondering if you might take a few minutes to meet us in the neighborhood to see what the effect will be for us. Having worked with your team for several years to implement the Braemar dome, I know you care deeply about the effects this sort of thing will have on the residents of Edina. Sincerely, Dawn DAWN MARTIN Vice President I Meetings & Shows d 952.844.4819 I m 612.964.8989 BI WORLDWIDE Australia I Canada I China I India I LATAM I UK I US www.biwo rldwide. com Check out our multiple award winning video on social issues at: http://www.voutube.com/watch?v=-xfNnkUFqBM Please consider the environment before printing. This e-mail message is being sent solely for use by the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended 1 recipient, please contact the sender by phone or reply by e-mail, delete the original message and destroy all copies. Thank you. 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 8:18 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Carol Kerr [mailto:carolannkerr@vahoo.com] Sent: Saturday, July 23, 2016 11:42 AM To: James Hovland Subject: Braemar This is insane! Please VOTE NO! Thank you Carol Kerr Sent from my iPhone Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 8:21 AM Subject: FW: Proposed Ski Trail at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Barbara Conroy [mailto:barbaraaconroy@gmail.com] Sent: Saturday, July 23, 2016 1:46 PM To: James Hovland; Mary Brindle; Kevin Staunton; Robert Stewart; swesonannl@gmail.com Subject: Proposed Ski Trail at Braemar Dear Mayor and Board Members, I am adamently opposed to any more tax dollars spent on winter recreation at Braemar. Enough is enough. I am new to the city in the last few years and am astounded at how much unnecessary money is spent on already lovely sites. The Fred Richards golf course the city shut down was a shame. Seems it was an affordable and well used course for many. I drive Gleason Rd most every weekday morning on my way to mass at St Patrick's and admire the lovely quiet neighborhood along the way. I also follow a school bus many mornings. Extra ice on this hilly and curvy road would not at all be welcome. I sure wouldn't want the noise or extra traffic either if I lived there, or the lights at night. I understand Bloomington already has trails available which are so close to Braemar. Give Edina residents a break, both financially and hassle wise. Respectfully, Barbara Conroy Edina Resident Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 8:26 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Nordic Ski Trail Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Bernadine Letsche [nnailto:rblet25260yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, July 22, 2016 4:26 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Nordic Ski Trail Dear Edina City Council, I strongly oppose the decimation of natural forestry and wildlife at Braemar Golf Course to construct a Nordic ski trail. I do not support this endeavor as it injures precious green space, will create a public hazard due to snow-making machines, which will spew ice onto GleasonRoad, creating an additional hazard to an already icy roadway in the winter, and is stated to cost 3million dollars which will take a minimum of 5 years to recover the cost, if it is ever recovered. No studies have been done as to the popularity of such a ski trail or how much it will be used. It is all pie-in-the sky reasoning. I ASK YOU TO VOTE NO ON THIS PROJECT. I ask that you consider more environmentally friendly (and less costly) ways to enhance Braemar for public use: mountain biking trails, hiking, etc. Please redirect this funding to other, higher-priority level projects that improve (not diminish) public safety, or which impose no such damaging impacts on the environment or residents. Thank you! Bernadine Letsche 7435 Hyde Park Lane, Edina, MN 55439 952-944-2464 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 8:29 AM Subject: FW: Nordic ski track Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.ciov From: triciaodonnell [mailto:triciaodonnell(acomcast.net] Sent: Saturday, July 23, 2016 11:37 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Nordic ski track Please DO NOT vote for the Nordic ski Track at Braemer. We live just across the street from the golf course, and are opposed to the intrusion and expense. This has not been one of Edina's recent priorities, and there are many more things that money could be spent on that improves the lives and well being of MANY more residents of Edina. Sincerely, Tricia O'Donnell & Vince Jiovanazzo 7674 Woodview Court Edina, MN 55439 Tricia O'Donnell triciaodonnell@comcast.net 612-865-5315 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 8:31 AM Subject: FW: No to Nordic Ski Trail at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoREdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: george hoffmann [mailto:geojhoff@yahoo.com] Sent: Saturday, July 23, 2016 2:30 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: No to Nordic Ski Trail at Braemar Please vote "no" to the nordic ski trail. It's another unjustified expenditure of tax payer money. V/r, George George J. Hoffmann 5812 Oaklawn Ave 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 11:00 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Hill Development Project Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: gary bartolett [mailto:glbartolett@mail.com] Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 10:52 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Hill Development Project The following is an attempt to rationally analyze the proposed crosscountry ski highway on Braemar Hill. I am opposed to the project so youi can bear that in mind. This project is so ugly in so many ways that I am amazed that it has not been laughed out of town before now. The area in question has been described as "natural" for many years in City publications. Since this is the second development project to get a hearing in three years it is obvious that someone has opened the area up for development. Why did this happen and who did it? Braemar Hill Development Project Project Build skiing super highway up and across 5 acres of Braemar hill. The area would be clear cut and graded to provide 4 traffic lanes (2 in each direction). The area would be trenched to install water and electric utilities and street lighting. The side closest to Dewey Hill Road would be graded for a tubing area and also provided with the same utilities and lighting. Cost 3 million dollars of infrastructure costs to be provided by tax increases plus annual operating costs to be recovered through charges for use. Reason Increase winter use of the area. Project Details Four lanes of skiing on manmade groomed snow would be provided. Multiple tubing lanes also groomed with manmade snow would be provided on the hillside facing Dewey Hill Road. The ski highway and the tubing area would be lighted with LED street lights for nighttime use. The area would begin with a bunny hill ramped up to the northwest side of the hill where it would parallel the top of the tubing area. An intermediate area would continue from the top of the bunny hill around and up the northeast side of the hill, where considerable grading would be required, to the top of the hill. The highway would continue along the hill for about one-half mile to a turnaround area where it would reverse and follow its outward course to the bunny hill. An expert area would form a smaller loop starting at the turnaround area. Size The ski superhighway will be approximately the size of York Avenue at 69th Street or about double the width of the adjacent Gleason Road. It will also probably be more lighted than Gleason Road. From a distance it will be the more distinct of the two. Really? Construction Construction will obviously require considerable work. Trees must be chopped, undergrowth bulldozed and dirt moved. Trenches must be dug, water pipes and electric lines must be placed and connected. Lights, electric outlets and water hydrants must be installed. All this activity will essentially duplicate the turmoil for the neighborhood of adding a new housing development with everything but the houses. In particular the highway up the hill on the northeast side will require a considerable amount of dirt to be moved either in or out and will occur less than 100 feet from the houses on Gleason Road. Esthetics Why does someone think it is a good idea to turn 5 acres of the last lightly touched area in Edina into a desert to "increase winter use". Why must everything be "used". Isn't looking at something that is not high rise with ground floor retail "use"? Why is development the only "use" that counts? We need less "use" and more thought. This is a 1 really stupid idea. Economics After the initial costs of construction and equipment the project is intended to recover all operating costs. If operating costs are not covered, taxpayers will be required to subsidize operations. The initial estimate of the charge is $75 for a season pass, $9 for a daily and $12 for a tubing session. Whether or not this will be adequate depends on a number of factors; how many people want to use such a facility, how long it will be available for use, competitive pricing, and the comparative quality of the facility. Currently all these are open questions. I am not aware of any usage surveys and it is hard to detect a groundswell of people clamoring for such a facility. At the current estimate of operating costs it would require approximately 1,300 season passes or 11,000 daily passes to cover operating costs. On its face this seems excessive for a city of 50,000 residents including snowbirds. Pricing is subject to competitive pressure from similar facilities at Hyland and Wirth (see Strib article of July 18, 2016). If there is not sufficient demand we will need to steal customers from someone else. The amount we can charge also depends on the quality of the facility. Second rate facilities cannot charge first rate prices. I am not a skier so I cannot say how this one stacks up but someone should look at it. Length of season also is a limiting factor. The current expectation is an 84 day season starting December 8 and ending March 1. I live on Gleason Road across from the hill and I have daily temperature records dating back to 1982. One drawback of manmade snow is that you cannot get it at temperatures above 28 degrees. Natural snow can occur at temperatures above freezing because it is cold where the snow came from. Not so with manmade snow. It comes from the ground at 50 degrees and needs surface temperatures below 28 degrees to freeze before hitting the ground. These conditions are actually not all that common here in early December. Our chances of having natural snow on Christmas are actually about 50% not so much because it does not snow but more because it snows and melts (see Facts About Snow). One day's snow is the next day's snowmelt. Making snow without consistent cold temperatures may amount to no more than watering the weeds. Making a base of manmade snow takes time and the expectation of an 84 day season is foolish. In fact a before Christmas opening will always be chancy and a significantly shorter season (8 weeks or less) is always possible. Have we looked at the date we start preparing the outdoor ice rinks for the last 10 years and the results to get an idea of potential start dates for snow making? If cost recovery in good years is a risk bad years will be a disaster. Luck is a poor business strategy. We have estimates of the annual operating costs but I do not know how they were determined or what was included. Are they cash out of pocket or do they include equipment depreciation. The snow guns and grooming machines are included in the up front development costs but they will need to be replaced eventually. Does our charge cover replacement or are we planning on bonding for new equipment? How about the well and pump? The annual brush clearing required as skiers do not like running into saplings? Golf course equipment requires a good bit of maintenance (I once worked for the company that makes much of the stuff) and grooming machines will require much of the same. How much will we have to pay to get people to run the snow guns and grooming machines in the middle of the night? Night shift workers are expensive. One of the noted advantages of this facility is "free" water. The water is "free" only because we have an existing well and pump that is not being used (more about contaminated well later). The water is only free in the ground. The cost is in getting it to the hill. When the pump runs the costs are the same as for any other city well. We should know exactly what this is as we have many city wells. Have we factored in the cost of replacing the pump or the well if necessary? Are we going to hack up the hill only to shut down if the well runs dry? Impact on neighborhood During construction the surrounding area will see a dramatic increase in noise. Grading means dump trucks on the streets and bulldozers clanking up and down the hill all day long. Cutting hundreds of trees means days of chain saws and trucks hauling debris. Laying pipe and cable is not silent either and it will also need to be trucked into position. When the project is complete it will be lighted all night either for skiing or snow making. The lights will be focused on a bright white surface which will continually be renewed. The lights are also on the top of a hill which will increase their reach and the lack of foliage will increase their visibility. The increase in ambient light in the area will be noticeable. In the middle of the night the snow guns will begin and the grooming machines will shortly follow. Both may be the best available but neither is silent. There will obviously be an increase in noise levels and it will occur in the middle of the night when most of us are trying to sleep. This may happen every night for the entire winter. Impact of LED lights Several recent studies indicate that the blue light from LED lights disturbs sleep patterns. They also seem to indicate that the light disturbs the life patterns of any wildlife that remains in the area. Since it would appear that the lights will be on most or all night, anything left in the area will need to adjust to 24 hours of daylight all winter long. Overspray Manmade snow is created by shooting water from a high pressure nozzle into the air. If the temperature is right the water particles freeze before reaching the ground. The particles are very fine and the guns are not very focused so the particles drift on any air currents before reaching the ground. Some of this will drift to the surrounding area including Gleason Road and the properties to the east. Anyone who travels 35W has seen the warning signs for "Snowmaking in Progress" at Buck Hill. The snowmaking at Buck is considerably further from the road than at Braemar where some of the snowmaking will occur within 50 feet of the roadway. We can expect to either have continual accidents on Gleason Road or continual salting of the street or both. The neighbors will also have some sort of frozen stuff on their driveways and the sidewalk every day. Wildlife 2 Many of the current residents of the hill will be evicted. Anything living in the trees that are cut or on the ground in the clear cut area will be forced to move or die. The constant activity will disturb life patterns as will the constant lighting and noise. Whether they work days or nights all of the current residents will have their lives disrupted. How would you feel having your house bulldozed? Contaminated Well Why is contaminated water good for snowmaking but not for human use? What is it contaminated with? Will it contaminate my lot? Will it contaminate what is left of the hillside or my vegetable garden? Will it contaminate me? Access How will access to the ski highway be controlled? Right now anyone can walk up the hill at any time of the year. If we are going to charge for use access must be restricted somehow. If you can put your skis on and go up the current path or through the woods why would anyone pay? How are we going to prevent people from driving up the hill? The current path has a boulder in the middle of the entrance to prevent driving up the path. This was at one time a local sport until someone went up and could not figure out how to get down. Then the boulder appeared. With a 50 foot roadway this will be harder than one boulder. Are we going to kick the local kids off the sledding hill? Partners At least one other organization is a "partner" in this project and others may be. These "partners" contribute nothing to the project but requirements. All of the risks are borne by the city with the benefits going to our "partners" at no cost. Traditionally partners each contribute something to the partnership. Why aren't the residents "partners", or if they are why don't they know about it. The formation of the partnership certainly could have been publicized, in advance, in About Town. Soil and Water A large amount of water will be applied to the ski area and hillside each winter. In the spring it will melt and go somewhere. Some will runoff either into Nine Mile Creek or the storm sewer system. How do the various water authorities feel about contaminated water in their systems? Some will remain on the hill in the soil. Will this accumulate and make the hillside more susceptible to erosion. Compaction will likely reduce the ability of the clear cut areas to retain water which will increase runoff. Will retaining walls be needed to prevent sloped areas from collapsing? Facts About Snow In the last 17 years (1999 - 2016) we have had no snow on the ground on December 31 seven times. In 2006 we had no snow on the ground on January 31. In 2002 the hill was bare on February 8. In about half of the years we had less than 6 inches of snow on the ground on January 31. In 2005 - 2006 we had enough natural snow to ski on for about 10 days in the entire winter mostly before Christmas. January 2006 was warm (average high 33 degrees) and the snow melted. Most years see periods of a week or more in December when snowmaking is not possible. A cold first week of December indicates nothing. In 2005 a cold and snowy first week was followed by temperatures in the rest of the winter which would have made it difficult to maintain any snow. In the 10 years from 2000 through 2009 only 4 years would have supported a ski season of significant length on natural snow and none of the four would have been 84 days ending March 1. The remaining 6 years would have supported a season of a day or so here and there. Natural snow here is unreliable and inconsistent. This project will rely on manmade snow and the ability to make it. 3 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2016 8:22 AM Subject: FW: Plan to install Nordic ski track at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Pankaj Gupta [mailto:guptafamily26(@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 7:28 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Plan to install Nordic ski track at Braemar Dear Council members: Please reconsider the proposal to install the Nordic ski track and related re-development at Braemar. A large proportion of Edina residents, including I and my family, strongly feel that this will have an adverse impact on the environment and the safety of nearby roads in the winter, and will create undesirable noise and light in the neighborhood at night. In addition to these concerns impacting current residents, these factors are also likely to adversely impact property values. We therefore most strongly urge you all to vote against this proposal. Kind regards, Pankaj Gupta, MD and Kalpna Gupta, PhD 7505 Hyde Park Drive Edina, MN 55439 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2016 8:29 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Ski/Tube hill Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoAEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Mike Nicklay [mailto:mnicklay0comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2016 7:31 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Ski/Tube hill I live near Braemar golf course just east of the wooded hills that are being proposed to develop ski trails and tubing hill. I urge this project to be rejected. This would entirely change the character of the neighborhood bringing in extra noise and traffic not to mention the destruction of a small natural wooded area. This is a very small area that is great for short nature walks plus a fun tubing Hill for neighborhood kids in the winter. These woods are directly adjacent to many houses that provides an attractive natural scenery adding occasional wildlife through the area plus the added sense of privacy. The proposed ski trails would bring added noise through the whole area all year and the area is quite small to support the trails. The tubing hills are small and would be a disappointment for those looking for a real tubing experience. This project would increase the traffic in the area pulling in from outside of the city. This would increase the danger on Gleason Rd that I have concerns for the safety of my young kids. This project is not a good fit for Braemar wooded area, the neighborhood or for the city of Edina. I strongly urge the council to vote no on this project. Mike Nicklay 5920 Bonnie Brae Dr Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2016 9:06 AM Subject: FW: Braemar development Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoAEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Druckman, David A. (MD) [mailto:david.druckman@parknicollet.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2016 8:46 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar development Dear council members, I am writing in opposition to the planned development of the Nordic ski track at Braemar. It is environmentally unsound, expensive, and not desired by the citizens of our city. I would advocate for a dog park at Braemar, similar to that at Van Valkenberg Park. This would be relatively inexpensive (fencing, lighting, minimal concrete or paving, maybe a watering station) and likely be used year round by more residents. On a completely unrelated subject, how about making the intersection at 70th street and Antrim Rd. a four way stop for once and for all. Too many drivers do not realize that it is not a four way stop, resulting in confusion and the potential for harm. Thank you for your anticipated attention. Sincerely, David Druckman 7113 Shannon Drive 952-946-7943 druckd@parknicollet.com i. Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2016 4:07 PM Subject: FW: Vote NO to the development of the Nordic Ski and Tubing hill proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: J.T. Wyckoff [mailto:jwyckoff@tactilemedical.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2016 4:06 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Vote NO to the development of the Nordic Ski and Tubing hill proposal Dear Edina City Council, I strongly oppose the proposed project at Braemar Golf Course to construct a Nordic ski trail and tubing hill. I do not support this endeavor as it injures precious green space and is stated to be an expensive yet losing proposition financially for the city. I ask that you consider more beneficial ways to enhance the entire city of Edina for public use, i.e. the numerous sidewalk projects that have not been completed. Please redirect this funding to other, higher-priority level projects that improve (not diminish) public safety, or which impose no such damaging impacts on the environment or residents. I am requesting you vote NO to this project on September 7th. Thank you! J.T. Wyckoff 6716 West Trail Edina MN 55439 763-300-8504 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Thursday, July 28, 2016 2:03 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Winter Recreation Project Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoAEdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Raynnond.G.DouglasOwellsfargo.com [mailto:Raynnond.G.Douglas@wellsfargo.coni] Sent: Thursday, July 28, 2016 1:10 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Winter Recreation Project Dear Councilmembers, I am writing to express my opposition to the winter recreation project at Braemar as it is currently designed. My reasons are as follows: • Noise and light issues in the surrounding neighborhood • Snow and ice issues from snow-making machinery in the surrounding neighborhood • Destruction of well-used hiking trail in a natural setting • The majority of the proposed skiing trail causing these disruptions is too advanced for recreational skiers and thus most residents • Project seems designed to benefit the Edina High School Team primarily and the community as an afterthought • The excellent trails and facilities at Hyland Lake Park (2.4 miles away), are both a money loser and underutilized • Destruction of an area that is currently widely used by families for sledding and unstructured winter fun and replacing it with a tubing hill which gives children less exercise (tow-rope) and costs $12 per person for 2 hours • The tubing location is sub-optimal, the project designers referred to the potential tubing experience as "tubing-lite" • The hope that the tubing hill will save the finances of the entire project is unlikely A lighted ski trail with snow making capabilities could be made within the golf course area without the above-mentioned disruptions and shortcomings. This would seem to be a much better solution and would be much less costly. Thanks for your efforts and representation, Ray and Rebecca Douglas 7413 Gleason Road. 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Friday, July 29, 2016 9:33 AM Subject: FW: Braemar proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: jmac6001@aol.com [mailto:jrnac6001@aol.com] Sent: Thursday, July 28, 2016 8:19 PM To: swensonann1@gmail.com; Robert Stewart; Kevin Staunton; Mary Brindle; James Hovland Subject: Braemar proposal I am writing to all of you to express my concern about the Nordic "theme park" that is being proposed for the Braemar area. I live directly under the hill, on Bonnie Brae Drive, that is to be devastated by the artificial snow machines, bright lights, tubing area, and mountain bike trails. Currently, there are natural trails, hundreds of wild animals, and a natural sled run that is used constantly when the snow falls. Why would anyone want to disrupt this incredible area and propose paying for something that is now free to all, especially the children. I hope that you will stop and think about this proposal and imagine if this was going in your back or front yard. This is a beautiful area which should be left as it is. Sheran McNulty 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Friday, July 29, 2016 9:34 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Winter Sports Park Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoAEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Orthey, Chris [mailto:Christopher.S.Ortheypjc.com] Sent: Friday, July 29, 2016 8:04 AM To: James Hovland Subject: Braemar Winter Sports Park Jim, I am an Edina resident and I am VERY excited about the winter sports park in Braemar. I was sad to read the Start and Tribune article and I hope the winter park continues to go thru. Thank you, Chris Orthey Chris Orthey Institutional Equity Sales Trading Piper Jaffray & Co. (612)303-6835 AOL IM: corthey3pjc christopher.s.orthev(&pic.com This message is a product of the Piper Jaffray Institutional Sales and Trading group and should not be construed as impartial research or a research report. For disclosure information with respect to the companies mentioned in this message, please visit www.piperjaffray.com/researchdisclosures. The information regarding the subject companies is based on data obtained from sources deemed to be reliable; it is not guaranteed as to accuracy and does not purport to be complete. This message is solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be used as the primary basis of investment decisions. Piper Jaffray has not assessed the suitability of the subject companies for any person. 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If you do not wish to receive commercial e-mail communications from Piper Jaffray, go to: www.piperjaffray.com/do not email to review the details and submit your request to be added to the Piper Jaffray "Do Not E-mail Registry." For additional disclosure information see www.piperiaffray.com/disclosures 1 Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Friday, July 29, 2016 12:38 PM To: Janet Canton Subject: FW: Braemar Winter Rec Comments for Park Board Attachments: winter-recreational-facility-at-braemar-golf-course.pdf Janet, Would you please include this with the Park Board correspondence? Thank you! Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattrehEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Jordan Gilgenbach Sent: Friday, July 29, 2016 10:46 AM To: Ann Kattreh Subject: Braemar Winter Rec Comments for Park Board Hi Ann! Attached is the export of posts made on Speak Up, Edina regarding the proposed winter rec at Braemar Golf Course for next week's Park Board meeting. Thanks! Jordan Gilgenbach, Communications Coordinator 952-826-0396 I Fax 952-826-0389 I Cell 612-363-3564 jqilqenbachEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov Winter Recreational Facility at Braemar Golf Course Dosed • Idea Forum • 18 Participants • 11 Ideas • 1 Comments • 116 Votes 18 11 1 116 PARTICIPANTS IDEAS COMMENTS VOTES SUMMARY OF IDEAS IDEA: NO! TO THE BRAEMAR WINTER RECREATION PROPOSAL c9 2 Comments • 15 Votes Author: Jackie Pelton Colwell • (Postal Code: 55439) • Jul 18, 2016 The City Council should vote NO on the Braemar Winter Recreation Proposal. I'm 100% in favor of using Braemar for more than just golf, but the scope of this project is too large, too expensive, and changes the nature of that area too greatly. The thought of the noise & light polution alone is enough to give pause, to say nothing of the enviornments impact to the area. This area is important -- please find a different, less impactful way to utilize this space. Jordan Gilgenbach • Admin • (Postal Code: 55424) • Jul 18, 2016 2:41 pm 6 0 Votes Hi Jackie! Thanks for your comment! I've shared it with Parks & Recreation staff. Thanks! Jordan Gilgenbach • Admin • (Postal Code: 55424) • Jul 18, 2016 3:24 pm 6 0 Votes Thanks again for your comments. We've set up an online forum to collect additional comments on this project at http://speakupedina.org/forums/winter-recreational-facility-at-braemar-golf-course. I've added this comment to that forum. Thanks! IDEA: THE CITY SHOULD ABANDON THE EXPENSIVE, ENVIRONMENTALLY DAMAGING NORDIC TRAILS PROJECT FOR BRAEMAR. ENHANCE BRAEMAR IN A LESS DRASTIC, DAMAGING AND UNSAFE WAY. 9 3 Comments • 15 Votes Author: Karen Hazel • (Postal Code: 55439) • Jul 18, 2016 The Council should vote NO on Sept 7th, and instead, deploy tax dollars toward projects enhancing safety and preserving the environment, not projects that create potential hazards. Residents do not want snow machines 1 of 6 Full Report Winter Recreational Facility at Braemar Golf Course Closed • Idea Forum • 18 Participants • 11 Ideas • 1 Comments • 116 Votes spraying ice crystals onto nearby roadways during the winter. We don't want to hear snow-making machines working overnight, introducing noise pollution, nor do we want night lighting (light pollution) paid for by our tax dollars. Please, please come up with a way to enhance Braemar for activities everyone can use 12 months out of the year, without destroying the environment. This project will wipe out precious natural land irrevocably, increase our taxes and isn't expected to break even for at least 5 years. Jordan Gilgenbach • Admin • (Postal Code: 55424) • Jul 18, 2016 2:39 pm 10 1 Votes Hi Karen, Thanks for your comment! I've shared it with Parks & Recreation staff. Thanks! Joshua Ahlberg • Citizen • (Postal Code: unknown) • Jul 18, 2016 2:51 pm 10 2 Votes I wholeheartedly agree. There is NO impetus for investing INCREMENTAL tax dollars with such a narrow focus. If we feel feel the need to redesign the golf course (which I would argue is also unnecessary, since it's already built), please re-purpose this land in a way that enhances the beauty of the area -- and doesn't displace our wildlife. That is something we can all enjoy, and it costs us near NOTHING. The plan put forth will disturb the peace, increase taxes, cause light and noise pollution, and fundamentally change the day-to-day life for those of us who live here. Jordan Gilgenbach • Admin • (Postal Code: 55424) • Jul 18, 2016 3:24 pm 10 1 Votes Thanks again for your comments. We've set up an online forum to collect additional comments on this project at http://speakupedina.org/forums/winter-recreational-facility-at-braemar-golf-course. I've added this comment to that forum. Thanks! IDEA: SAY NO TO THE CROSS-COUNTRY SKIIING PROPOSAL! c9 0 Comments • 14 Votes Author: Xijian Chen • (Postal Code: 55439) • Jul 18, 2016 I have a picture showing five adult-size deer in a single picture, at the edge of the woods of the proposed ski route. The picture was taken just last year. The woods is a favorite location harboring wild animals in Winter time. I think the large animals pose serious threats to skiers in the woods. Nobody wants to hear a news that a kid is injured or killed by a roaming herd of deer (or other animals), while doing cross-country skiing inside the city's park. Safety is my number one concern. My friends were amazed by the picture when I showed them. They were all 2 of 6 Full Report Winter Recreational Facility at Braemar Golf Course Closed • Idea Forum • 18 Participants • 11 Ideas • 1 Comments • 116 Votes surprised that Edina, a city so close to downtown, can have such high centration of large wild animals, which is a nice indicator of rich natural resources we possess. This is what we should be proud of. Once we open the trail in the woods area, the human activities and the noisy machines will be a threat to the eco system. After losing the habitat, the large animals may be forced to run into the neighborhood. On textbooks and newspapers, we criticize the third world for deforestation. At least, the third-world people cut trees to grow crops and meet basic needs. The proposed ski trail at Braemar offers a bad local example: the city cuts the tress because a bunch of high-school kids think the existing skiing area at High-land park and Normandale lake, which is just 10 minutes away, is not exciting any more for them. IDEA: STOP THE NORDIC SKI TRAIL PROPOSAL! Comments • 13 Votes Author: Joshua Ahlberg (Postal Code: unknown) • Jul 18, 2016 There is NO impetus for investing INCREMENTAL tax dollars with such a narrow focus. If we feel the need to redesign the golf course (which I would argue is also unnecessary, since it's already built), please re-purpose this land in a way that enhances the beauty of the area -- and doesn't displace our wildlife. That is something we can all enjoy, and it costs us near NOTHING. The plan put forth will disturb the peace, increase taxes, cause light and noise pollution, and fundamentally change the day-to-day life for those of us who live here. IDEA: ABANDON THE EXPENSIVE NORDIC CROSSCOUNTRY TRAIL AT BRAEMAR. PUBLIC SENTIMENT IS AGAINST IT. 9 2 Comments • 13 Votes Author: Mary Wiley • (Postal Code: 55439) • Jul 14, 2016 If the City listens to its taxpayers at all, it will abandon the proposed Nordic trail at Braemar. Do we have no say in how our tax dollars are spent? Who approved this plan? Jordan Gilgenbach • Admin • (Postal Code: 55424) • Jul 18, 2016 2:40 pm 0 Votes Hi Mary, thanks for your comment on this project. I've shared it with the Parks & Recreation staff. Thanks! Jordan Gilgenbach • Admin • (Postal Code: 55424) • Jul 18, 2016 3:25 pm 13 0 Votes 3 of 6 Full Report Winter Recreational Facility at Braemar Golf Course Closed • Idea Forum • 18 Participants • 11 Ideas • 1 Comments • 116 Votes Thanks again for your comments. We've set up an online forum to collect additional comments on this project at http://speakupedina.org/forums/winter-recreational-facility-at-braemar-golf-course. I've added this comment to that forum. Thanks! IDEA: STOP THE WINTER RECREATIONAL FACILITY AT BRAEMAR GOLF COURSE c9 0 Comments • 12 Votes Author: Stephanie Freudenthal • (Postal Code: 55439) • Jul 18, 2016 Please stop this project. It is too expensive, unneeded, unwanted, dangerous for nearby residents, and a noise and light pollutant. IDEA: BRAEMAR WINTER RECREATIONAL FACILITY - COUNCIL VOTE NO SEPTEMBER 7 0 Comments • 11 Votes Author: Tom McNamee • (Postal Code: 55439) • Jul 18, 2016 Justifying a premier golf and winter recreational facility in the aftermath of obliterating wonderful trees, displacing/killing wildlife from an accustomed ecosystem, and creating road hazards and other potential risks and aggravations for homeowners who moved to this specific area for its serene and natural beauty would be unimaginable. A $3M price tag is not prudent use of taxpayers' money when it benefits a small population and the proposal is riddled with negative impact issues. The Council should definitely say NO to this project on September 7. Instead, alternative Braemar redevelopment proposals should be reworked or come forward that are environmentally friendly, financially responsible, aim to satisfy the majority and, upon completion, the facilities will invite and engage the broadest section of the community to participate. There is no going back, let's all speak up now, work together, and get this right. IDEA: STOP THE 3 MILLION X-C SKI PLAN. t9 1 Comments • 9 Votes Author: bruce freeman • (Postal Code: 55436) • Jul 21, 2016 X-C skiing is great but this is a really bad plan with really high envirnomental costs and burdens on the people living nearby. We should helpm the Nordic team keep Hornet Hills where they train now below the high school and keep the east ridge in its natural state. This is a money losing proposition from the start. So not just initial cost but all the interest on the debt plus strong likelyhood that it will lose money operationally as well and need subsidies. This is a really bad idea trying to do a good thing. Many other options for X-C skiing besides this exact plan being fostered on us by consultants trying to 4 of 6 Full Report Winter Recreational Facility at Braemar Golf Course Closed • Idea Forum • 18 Participants • 11 Ideas • 1 Comments • 116 Votes make money on the deal. Laura Kondrick • Citizen • (Postal Code: 55436) • Jul 21, 2016 8:37 am ó 1 Votes Vote NO! on the Winter Rec Facility. Not in the plan. Why would the city council approve this. Don't need more taxes or another bond referendum. If X-country ski trails need rethinking, fine. But not a $3 million boondoggle proposed by some outside opportunistic huckster. Don't be swayed. VOTE NO! IDEA: FOLLOW STRATEGIC PLAN & BE FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE: SAY NO TO BRAEMAR WINTER RECREATION PLAN cQ 0 Comments • 6 Votes Author: Kristin Reichling • (Postal Code: 55439) • Jul 23, 2016 The Braemar Winter Recreation Plan is a $3 Million proposal that is not in the Parks & Rec strategic plan. This is what Edina residents said they wanted, according to the strategic plan: Walking/Biking Trails (85%), Nature trails (69%) and natural areas and wildlife habitats (56%). What is also in the plan, ironically, is to hire a natural resources manager to guide natural resource efforts. Not only is this proposal unplanned and not reflective of what citizens said they wanted, it is being rushed in, with very little attempt to engage Edina residents, even though our tax dollars will be needed to plow man-made snow on Gleason. There was one informational meeting in July - the notice went to a subset of residents. This $3M proposal affects ALL Edina residents and everyone should have been informed. If you watch the June 21 city council meeting on Edina 11V, you'll learn that there almost wasn't a public forum (Sept 7), and it was almost set for August, when many people are on vacation. Get informed on what this proposal is all about and attend the public forum on September 7th. You almost didn't get this opportunity. Thank you! IDEA: NORDIC SKI/BRAEMAR PROPOSAL - VOTE NO 6Q 0 Comments • 4 Votes Author: Tom McNamee • (Postal Code: 55439) • Jul 18, 2016 Justifying a premier golf and winter recreational facility in the aftermath of obliterating wonderful trees, displacing/killing wildlife from an accustomed ecosystem, and creating road hazards and other potential risks and aggravations for homeowners who moved to this specific area for its serene and natural beauty would be unimaginable. A $3M price tag is not prudent use of taxpayers' money when it benefits a small population and the proposal is riddled with negative impact issues. The City Council should definitely say NO to this project on September 7. Instead, alternative Braemar redevelopment proposals should be reworked or come forward that 5 of 6 Full Report Winter Recreational Facility at Braemar Golf Course Closed • Idea Forum • 18 Participants • 11 Ideas • 1 Comments • 116 Votes are environmentally friendly, financially responsible, aim to satisfy the majority and, upon completion, the facilities will invite and engage the broadest section of the community to participate. There is no going back, let's all speak up now, work together, and get this right. IDEA: PARK BOARD MEETING TO APPROVE BRAEMAR SKI HILL c9 0 Comments • 4 Votes Author: Gary Bartolett • (Postal Code: 55439) • Jul 27, 2016 The Park Board is meeting on August 8 at the Braemar Clubhouse to approve the $3 million ski facility on Braemar Hill. The July 13 open house comments should be heard at this meeting along with comments by residents present at the meeting. This is your best chance to have some influence on this project. A development request for the area 3 years ago was rejected by the Park Board and did not even get to the City Council. Go to the meeting august 8. 6 of 6 Full Report Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 8:15 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Park Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Judith Felker [mailto:judithmfelker(&yahoo.corn] Sent: Saturday, July 30, 2016 1:53 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Park To our mayor and city council members: Please STOP moving forward on your plan to change Braemar Park in a way that is environmentally unfriendly, will serve only a small percentage of Edina residents, while raising taxes on ALL of us! We want a voice in how this park is "improved"! It's OUR park! Edina's park, not just yours and those who will profit or benefit from the proposed ski trail. How can you think this is the way city government should be run? Aren't ALL residents employing you? Didn't a MAJORITY vote for you? Yet, you heed the wishes of only a small minority without consulting the rest of us. We need and want a more transparent, more reflective, more representative mayor and City Council. PLEASE STOP THIS NOW! Sincerely, Judith Felker 6324 Rolf Ave Edina, MN P.S. It is not true that most of the opposition to this ill-conceived project is coming from those near Braemar Park. We will ALL pay for it, and increased environmental degradation affects us ALL. Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 8:17 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Golf Course Nordic Ski Track Attachments: FlyerUpdated(REV_072416) (1).docx Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Richard Jahnke [mailto:rjahnke(asunbeltmidwest.com] Sent: Saturday, July 30, 2016 6:20 PM To: Michael R. Cashman; Ann Kattreh; Edina Mail Cc: Bruce Freeman; Tim Sudeith; Leigh Mazion; Kristi Trostel; ted youel; Bill Bieganek Subject: FW: Braemar Golf Course Nordic Ski Track Ann I received the email below from an Edina neighbor of mine. Please pass this email and the attached flyer on to all the members of the Park Board and City Council. I see from the flyer there is a petition circulating at https://www.change.org/p/the-edina-city- council-keep-edina-s-braemar-green-and-safe?source location=notifications page Thank you and have a great weekend. Richard Jahnke / Licensed Business Broker, CMSBB I share this information in an attempt to create visibility to a project that was surfaced outside of protocol. There is a very small but powerful group on the City Council advocating for a $3.0M project as a part of the Braemar redevelopment. Their desire is to add an outdoor winter activities area, complete with snow making equipment, at an unbudgeted cost of $3.0M. The project serves very few, has a terrible return on investment and is a duplication of the Bloomington Highlands ski area just a few miles south. There is a small but active group working to stop the project for multitude of reasons; expense, safety, improper protocol, other suggestions for the space, alternate suggestions for the spend. I will admit I pay little attention to Edina politics and Edina City Council. What I am learning through this very small challenge is a bit disturbing. I know I will pay more attention when officials are elected in the future. We deserve honesty and transparency, not self interest or self promoting. Some of our elected officials stand up for the greater good and work very hard in the interest of the community, others....well let me just say I am very disappointed after all that I am learning. 1 I know I will be a better steward of city government in the future and will pay far more attention to a candidates resume, interests and integrity. Please review the attached flyer that articulates the issue, and if compelled, please voice your concerns. The flyer identifies methods for communication. 2 EDINA RESIDENTS: CALL TO ACTION - ALERT On July 13, 2016, the Edina Park and Recreation Board held a public-information meeting to inform residents of a plan to redevelop Braemar Golf Course to install a 50-foot wide Nordic ski track, starting this October. HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: • The proposal would wipe out hundreds of trees and displace/kill wildlife. • It would subject residents to over 12 months of noisy, disruptive construction. • Snow-making machines would grind overnight, introducing noise pollution. • Outdoor lighting would "light up the sky" in Edina, creating nighttime light pollution • The project comes with a $3 MILLION price tag. • Our taxes will increase as a result. • The project is expected to run at a financial loss, barely breaking even in no less than 5years. There are better ways to redevelop Braemar with less destruction, lower cost. • It would create a public safety hazard on Gleason Road as snow machines would "over spray" ice crystals onto the road at night, for 10-12 weeks a year during winter. • The project was pitched to the Edina City Council by SEH, a consulting firm that sells ski- track development to communities. It is not a project organically arising from Edina taxpayers' needs, feedback or petition. • The project was NOT designated one of the City's priorities for this fiscal year. WHAT YOU CAN DO: 1) The City Council needs and wants to hear your voice. Call each and every City Council Member and voice your opposition to this environmentally destructive, costly and wasteful endeavor, asking EACH to VOTE NO: Mayor Jim Hovland: 612-874-8550 Kevin Staunton: 952-836-1020 Ann Swenson: 952-484-4894 Mary Brindle: 952-941-7746 Bob Stewart: 952-833-9559 OR: email the entire Council at: Mail@EdinaMN.gov 2) WRITE LETTERS TO THE EDINA SUN CURRENT: Send your letter, 350 words max, opposing the project, to: ethan.groothuis@ecm-inc.com 3) SIGN THE CHANGE.ORG PETITION —Visit BraemarGreen.ORG to get involved! 4) ATTEND THE PUBLIC COUNCIL HEARING on September 7th —when City Council votes! 5) Learn more at: http://edinamn.gov/index.php?section=winterrecbraemar Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 8:21 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Tubing etc project. Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Mark J. Marshall [mailto:mmarshall@bwf.com] Sent: Saturday, July 30, 2016 9:24 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Tubing etc project. Dear Mayor and City Council I live at 6213 Creek Valley Road. Please accept this email as my ardent opposition to the proposed winter tubing facility at Breamar. Thanks Mark J. Marshall Healthcare Practice Leader Bentz Whaley Flessner Office: 952-921-0111 Web: www.bwf.com 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 8:22 AM Subject: FW: Voting No to Redevelop Braemar Golf Course Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Donna DAquila Ernailto:ddedina(ayahoo.corn] Sent: Sunday, July 31, 2016 8:17 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Voting No to Redevelop Braemar Golf Course As a resident of Edina since 1978, I would have expected to receive information on this wasteful and destructive project before yesterday. The meeting was July 13th? SEH privately pitching to "Our" city council and city council not sharing this information fairly to Edina residents?? Appalling behaviors even for this council. My vote is "NO" to such a costly, not designated priority, environmentally destructive (which shocks me with all the eco friendly recycling, can't burn leaves and yard waste in eco bags required that the thought of tearing down trees of magnitudes,etc), safety hazard, known money loosing scheme, bring in the riff raff and raise my taxes again after all the bike lane flip flopping this council has done is CRAZY. Who are you council members really representing?? A question that has been asked to many times to count. Again, my vote is no and yours as representing our township should be no, as well. Donna D'Aquila 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 8:23 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov www.EdinaMN.qov From: Joan Roe [mailto:roejoank0gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, July 31, 2016 9:33 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar I am opposed to the proposed plan for Braemar. The cost is prohibitive both because of increased taxes to people like me who are on fixed incomes and loss of the beautiful space and wildlife of Braemar. Now that Buck Hill has expanded to include more winter sports, such as cross country skiing, a very good option has opened up. My son was on the 1988 EHS State Championship Cross Country team, so I understand weather related problems, but the team always found ways to practice and compete without this extensive, expensive measure with its negative impact. Joan Roe Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 8:25 AM Subject: FW: Nordic Ski Trail Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Rand Evans [mailto:52randnnan@gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, July 31, 2016 7:09 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Nordic Ski Trail Dear Edina City Council, I oppose the plan for the Nordic Ski Trail Project. I would rather see the money spent on projects that will benefit the entire community without the great expense and potential for losing money. I have skied and gone snowshoeing at Braemar many times, and find the natural setting very pleasant. We don't need flat, wide, groomed trails with lights. You are already spending a large amount to redesign the golf course at a time when the number of golf rounds is diminishing each year. In addition, the closing of the golf course for a year is likely to force golfers to leave Braemar permanently for less expensive courses that are just as enjoyable. The golf course expenditure is enough of a risk for now. I urge you to to take a more cautious approach to immediate efforts to make Braemar an entertainment destination. Please vote NO for this project. 1 Thank you, Randy Evans Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 9:37 AM To: Edina Mail; Janet Canton Subject: FW: Winter Rec area at Braemar For Park Board and Council Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattrehEdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Rey Baribault [nnailto:rey.baribault@np-es.corn] Sent: Friday, July 29, 2016 11:51 PM To: Ann Kattreh Cc: Home Turf Subject: Winter Rec area at Braemar Ann Kattreh, We firmly support the proposed $3MM bond sale to fund a Braemar winter rec area. Our family would use and enjoy a snow tubing hill, snow trails for snow shoeing, and Nordic skiing. While we've not fat tire biked before, we'd like to see that as an option to make the most use of the trails in the project. Thank you for your support of this exciting new use of an existing Edina park asset. Rey and Sally Baribault 5904 Code Ave Edina, MN 952-929-9993 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 10:32 AM Subject: FW: support nordic ski track Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.00v I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Todd De For [mailto:defor0010umn.edu] Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 9:35 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: support nordic ski track Our family is in support of the nordic ski track of Braemer. It would be extremely beneficial to community & youth to have somewhere to excercise and cross country ski during Winter. Please vote yes. Thanks, Todd Todd DeFor Senior Biostatistician Biostatistics Core Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota 717 Delaware St, SE MPLS, MN 55455 612-626-6846 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 9:29 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Park Future Development Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Kevin Newman [mailto:kmnewman7@comcast.net] Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 7:00 PM To: James Hovland Subject: Braemar Park Future Development Dear Mayor Holland I am an Edina resident living at 7408 Shannon Drive. I am writing in opposition to the proposed redevelopment of Braemar Park to include a Nordic ski track, snow making equipment and night lighting. My first question is who is championing these addition? I'm not aware of any resident or Edina organization requesting this level of development. From what is published, it appears that SEH sees an opportunity to sell its services. That's fine, but are you seriously looking to spend $3,000,000 of our tax dollars for an unprofitable development? It's ironic that Fred Richards GC was closed and Braemar GC reconfigured, because they were unprofitable. Hopefully, you are not seriously considering voting for the development of a new unprofitable project? As a resident that lives near Braemar park, I'm also concerned about how this, essentially "commercial" development, will impact the quality of life at my home and the hundreds of residential homes east of Braemar. The addition of loud snow making equipment and bright night lighting will have a negative impact to our quality of life. Putting a loud, expensive and disruptive development, so near to a residential area seems wasteful and irresponsible. 1 I feel strongly that we do not need this development at Braemar Park. I'd like to know your position on this proposal. Can I count on your support in defeating this proposal? Regards, Kevin and Anne Newman 7408 Shannon Drive 952-942-8852 kmnewman7@comcast.net 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 9:31 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Winter Plans Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunnoa.EdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Peggy Erickson [mailto:pqerickson(agnnail.com] Sent: Monday, August 01, 2016 5:49 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Winter Plans To Edina City Council Members: I am very concerned and oppose the plans for the Braemar Nordic skiing trails. I ask that you vote "NO" for this project. I have worked at Hyland Hills as a ski instructor and on the admin/managerial side of the business for years. I can tell you first hand that snow blowing is a messy, loud business. The blown snow travels very far from the intended paths and ends up in the neighborhood surrounding Hyland (Buck Hill has a warning sign on Hwy 35 for this). The lights from Hyland are a nuisance for the neighborhood across the way. The manmade snow is much different from the mother nature kind. Because of the chemicals added, it crystallizes denser and makes it almost impossible to scrape off of your windshield and roads. Each season when the snowsports season starts, the Hyland office gets hammered by complaints about snow blowing, the noise and lights. However, Hyland Hill Ski area was there long before the neighborhood was built, so many neighbors knew what they were buying into. That is not the case with the Braemar Hills neighborhood. We have lived in the area for almost 20 years and loved the fact that Braemar used to claim to be a "wild life sanctuary" (on the old sign to the entrance). The plans to build the nordic paths would be a detriment to the flora and fauna. The paths in the woods would be raped of the trees that so many hiker/walkers enjoy. I have hiked those woods for years and it would break my heart to see so many trees gone. It makes me sad that the Edina City Council would deteriorate the quality of life for the area surrounding Braemar Hills, spend taxpayers' money and shove this nordic plan forward. I have noticed the survey markers in the Braemar woods long before the nordic plans hit the media. It upsets me that the land would be surveyed and taxpayers money spent before Edina residents could have a say in the matter. The cart was put on before the horse. I don't oppose the nordic ski trails (I'll use them). However, they should just go through the golf course and blown snow will not affect the area homes. Any project that moves forward should be on a much smaller scale. Thank you for listening and once again, please vote NO. Peggy Q Erickson PSIA-Central Section 1 Rep 952-212-1392 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 9:41 AM Subject: FW: Nordic Ski Track Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoAEdinaMN.aov I www.EdinaMN.aov From: bagrossman(thconncast.net [mailto:bagrossman@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 8:53 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Nordic Ski Track Dear Council Members: Please add my name to the list of opponents to the proposed nordic ski track at the Braemar Golf Course. We do not need this at Braemar nor any other part of our city. It is an environmentally destructive project, costly to the taxpayers and limited to only a few in the community. We need to maintain the beauty and green space of Braemar as our city continues unfortunately to grow with apartments and condos. Hyland Park is a mile or so away and offers winter activities. Please do not vote for this project. While I have your attention, I don't see many people using the bike paths on my daily trips through Edina. To have created these bike paths at the expense of vehicle traffic was a waste. Also the roundabouts are confusing. I question whether one was needed at Braemar and also the one being created on Valley View and 62. I don't see how that is going to solve the traffic congestion for travelers to the high school. I appreciate your being on the council and the time you devote to the city. Barbara Grossman (resident for 42 years) 7300 Lanham Lane Edina 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 9:45 AM Subject: FW: Comments about the Proposed Braemar Winter Sports Center Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Dick/Bernie Letsche [mailto:rbletsche@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 9:36 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Comments about the Proposed Braemar Winter Sports Center To the Edina City Council: . Mayor Jim Hovland . Kevin Staunton . Ann Swenson . Mary Brindle . Bob Stewart I strongly believe that Edina does not need, and very many residents do not want, the Braemar Winter Sports Center project as was proposed by Ann Kattreh and SEH at the public information meeting I attended on July 13. I and many others spoke about why we are not in favor of the project, and we left our written comments at the conclusion of the meeting. If you haven't read those comments, I urge you to read them. Also, Mayor Hovland met with several Edina residents on August 1 at 7714 Tanglewood Court to discuss aspects and concerns about the proposed project. At the August 1 gathering, some attendees mentioned that not all Edina residents had been made aware of the July 13 informational meeting about the proposed project, and more community input should be considered from additional residents. Besides the significant negative economic and environmental impacts of the project, there are sufficient other winter sports facilities in the south metro area. The night lighting and noise created by the Braemar Winter Sports Center would be serious negatives for residents close to the facility. A major negative would be the snow/ice over spray from the snow making operation, and the hazards created on Gleason Road and area residents' driveways and sidewalks. If the proposal is approved and implemented, and area residents get snow/ice over spray on their driveways and sidewalks from the snow making operation, many residents affected will expect the City of Edina to remove the snow/ice from their driveways and sidewalks by 7:00 a.m. the following morning; or I expect those residents will employ a commercial service to do the snow/ice removal and the costs will be expected to be paid by the City of Edina. (For example, in our particular case we are gone much of the winter and we employ someone to remove snow from our driveway and sidewalk after every snowfall, so that our home looks lived-in. I would expect the City of Edina to remove or pay for the removal of snow/ice from the over spray on days there is no natural snowfall during the entire projected 10-12 week period, which would be costly.) Has the City of Edina adequately considered those 1 circumstances and costs; and importantly, the financial liability resulting from accidents and injuries on Gleason Road and on residents driveways and sidewalks because of over spray from the snow making operation? The over spray, night lighting, night noise, etc. problems will negatively impact home values in the area. How is the City prepared to deal with home owners for this result if the project is approved and implemented? I have heard several residents say that a City Council Member pushing for this project may have a conflict of interest. I understand that person works for a company that sells ski equipment. If there is a conflict of interest, or if it is only perceived, would it be appropriate that that person abstain from voting in favor of the project; as all City Council Members are elected to serve the best interests of all its residents, without favoring those having "special interests"? For all the many reasons, I ask you to vote "NO" regarding the proposed project. Perhaps something less intrusive and less costly might be considered, e.g. enhanced winter cross country skiing on the golf course, summer mountain biking on narrow trials through the tree covered hills, etc.? I welcome hearing from you to discuss these concerns. Thank you, Richard Letsche 7435 Hyde Park Lane, Edina, MN 55439 952-944-2464 rbletsche@comcast.net Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 10:28 AM Subject: FW: Vote NO - Nordic Ski Trail Redevelopment at Braemar - OPEN LETTER TO EDINA CITY COUNCIL Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 lbiunno(EdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: george@adlcompany.com [mailto:george@adlcompany.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 10:23 AM To: Celia Ellingson; tom.mcnameel@comcast.net; 'Aamodt, Gary'; 'Flicek, Nancy'; 'George & Jean'; 'Tracy, Jean'; Edina Mail Subject: RE: Vote NO - Nordic Ski Trail Redevelopment at Braemar - OPEN LEI I ER TO EDINA CITY COUNCIL To the Edina City Council: As an affected resident and neighbor of the proposed recreation area I urge the council to vote NO! We have read all of the materials presented describing the proposed Winter Recreation Area. If we remove all the sales fluff, the bottom line is that the City would invest $3M is a venture that at best provides a questionable community benefit but will impact the neighborhood's quality of life and is projected to generate a negative cash flow resulting in a financial drain on city resources in the future. Edina does not need an additional winter activities venue, that delivers questionable benefits with guaranteed financial liabilities, noise and lighting pollution and driving hazards on Gleason Rd. FACTS: • There IS no grass roots call or need for additional activities at Braemar; • There ARE significant winter based activities less than a mile away in the Bloomington Highland Park Recreation area; • The proposed trails would destroy a significant number of our trees and impact wildlife; • Use of the trails in winter will require lighting which will destroy the wilderness ambiance we currently posses and the lighting glow will be visible throughout the SW area of Edina; • The snow making equipment will significantly add to the noise pollution we already endure from 494 and 169; and, • Man made snow over-spray will create a driving hazard on Gleason Road due to wind driven ice over spray. [For the record, before moving to the Hills of Braemar we lived on Mt. Normandale Dr. in Bloomington where the charm of the Highland Recreation Area disappeared quickly after our first winter of listening to the snow making equipment running all night and enduring unexpected 'blizzards' of wind whipped articial snow and the accompanying icy roads.] 1 Respectfully, George L. Mori and David Jacobson 7654 Woodview Ct. Edina, 55439 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 10:31 AM Subject: FW: Thank you Mayor Hovland Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Karen Hazel [mailto:karenahazel@msn.corn] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 10:12 AM To: James Hovland Subject: Thank you Mayor Hovland Dear Mayor, I want to again thank you for meeting with our group last night; I am the woman who spoke to the point of "Just because we can do something doesn't mean we should." Just because the golf course is currently under construction is not a strong enough basis for the Council to push this forward at a rapid pace; there are too many risks, terrible consequences and too much upheaval. So, I can't express how much it meant to us all that you heard our views and listened to our concerns. Thank you for that! I also wish to reiterate that we are NOT opposed to a sensible, careful and prudent refinement of Braemar to enhance its skiing capabilities. Nordic skiing can be cultivated on the west side of the golf course, for example, without the destruction and damage this current proposal would introduce. Further, people already ski at Braemar in the winter. An exploratory study by another vendor--one which would aim to preserve, not destroy Braemar--could result in a more cost-effective, environmentally friendly and safe enhancement for skiers. This current proposal is everything but that. Our position is not "No Nordic Skiing." Rather, it is "Responsible Enhancement of Braemar" to include more skiing opportunities, mountain biking, hiking trails, and preserve nature. There's a very big difference between the two positions. We would like to work with the pro-Nordic folks, and help them realize that there is a way to meet this same goals, but without this destruction, disturbance, and danger, not to mention the potential liability the City will face if God forbid something happened as a result of the increased hazards on Gleason Road. We advocate for sensible enhancement, not "skiing at any cost/danger." Please accept my gratitude for your willingness to listen to reason and advocate for a sensible plan. This proposal is not sensible. Please advocate for a sensible, carefully researched and fiscally responsible (and environmentally responsible) 1 solution. We continue to be among your most ardent supporters, as we are very grateful for your "voice of reason" on this very important issue. Respectfully, Karen Hazel 7615 Gleason Road 952.237.6464 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 2:09 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: andyt@hoigaards.com [mailto:andvt@hoigaards.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 2:04 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar As a 40 year resident of Edina and a frequent user of Edina's outdoor amenities I am writing to urge you not to abandon the Braemar Winter Sports project. It would add to the healthy lifestyle in the City. Thank You Andy Turnbull 5437 Halifax Lane Edina 55424 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:15 PM Subject: FW: Winter Recreational Facility at Braemar Golf Course Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov 1 www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Paul Gage [mailto:pvgage@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:04 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Winter Recreational Facility at Braemar Golf Course Dear Edina City Council, I'm writing in support of the proposed Winter Recreation Facility at Braemar Golf Course. I am a resident of Edina and live at 5813 Amy Dr. and am a board member of the Minnesota Youth Ski League (MYSL) and an assistant nordic coach at the High School. There are currently three nordic skiing facilities in the metro area with snowmaking capabilities. All 3, Elm Creek, Theodor Wirth and Hyland, are at full capacity. The closest area to Edina is Hyland. As a high school coach I thought it would be great to have the facility so nearby to home. I expected that we would be able to practice there multiple times a week as we had been doing at the base of the downhill ski area. Unfortunately, do to the overwhelming popularity of Hyland, school teams are forbidden to practice there at all during the months of November and December and are restricted to at best once per week for the remaining winter months. As a MYSL board member, I expected the Hyland MYSL club (for children in the 4 to 12 to grow to about 200 kids once snowmaking was in place. Again, the Hyland managers have placed restrictions on the use of the facilities and have limited the Hyland club to 80 kids and none at all during the early season. By comparison, Theodore Wirth Park has two MYSL clubs that serve a combined 250 kids. A lot of the negative feedback I have been reading is based on incorrect information. The arguments against the Braemar Proposal are the same once used by the neighbors of the existing 3 facilities. Now that the facilities are operational it is clear that the fears of the neighbors have not come true. The proposal put forth to you is a professional facility that would be just as popular as the existing sites. People in Minnesota and families in particular are always looking for fun activities to do in the winter. The Braemar proposal leverages the existing building, parking, land and water infrastructure and I think would be a great addition to Edina. Regards, -Paul Gage. 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:18 PM Subject: FW: Braemar compromise plan Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 ibiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Craig Bourgeault [mailto:CBourgeaultOspineoloqy.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 2:27 PM To: James Hovland Subject: Braemar compromise plan Dear Mayor Hovland I am opposed to a Nordic ski area at Braemar. This is a very questionable way to spend spending more than $3,000,000.00 of taxpayer money. This is a sport with a very limited season. Even in optimal winter conditions, the season is ten weeks long. And we no longer have optimal winter conditions in Minnesota. This project will destroy the natural character of the area with destruction of vast swaths of trees and habitat to make way for the required open space for modern skate style skiing. I love cross country skiing. I love to put on my long skis and pole through the woods and across the lake. Braemar will not be that kind of skiing. A much better plan is the proposed bike trail. It can be used year round, it will cost much less of the taxpayers resources, there will be less destruction of habitat and trees, less disruption of the character of the neighborhood. and it has many more potential users in the community. Please support the compromise mountain bike trail plan for Braemar. Craig Bourgeault 6212 Halifax Ave S Edina, MN 55424 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:22 PM Subject: FW: SUPPORT BRAEMAR WINTER REC AREA!!! Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: eli6223@iaol.com [mailto:e1i6223@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:19 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: SUPPORT BRAEMAR WINTER REC AREA!!! Edina Mayor, City Council, Park Board, PLEASE!!! Please allow residents to have a chance to make the case for the winter park area and give us until Sep 7th!! My husband and I attended Edina schools, and grew up here. We raised our family here, and now, our children are beginning to move back to raise their families here. We have always been active participants of the Edina parks. My husband, and all 3 of our children's 1st jobs were at the Braemar Golf Course. When my husband and I were first married in 1977 - our first home was in Edina, and were just starting out, we spent many evenings in the winter cross country skiing across Braemar GC by moonlight! It was beautiful then, and still is. We had the joy of attending an event last winter to snow shoe and then eat dinner at the Tin Fish. Neither of us had ever seen so many people enjoying the park in the winter!! It was over an hours wait for dinner-- both the restaurant, and the room behind it were totally full!! It is a treasure that many do not realize is here to use! The Tin Fish, we saw several times, was bringing people to the park to ski, and show shoe! We are SO happy that this is happening!! We quickly began using the park and restaurant! We are in our early 60's now. Our city has done much for the youth of our city. Cross Country Skiing, and Snow shoeing are winter outdoor activities that older adults can enjoy!! We are planning on participating in them for many years to come, and hoping that the city will use resources so that we have a lovely venue to do this, as we have provided for our younger members!! My father in law just hung up his ski's at 85!! You won't find us- or many people in our age group playing hockey!! - But we have helped to build and support those EXPENSIVE hobbies!! (Our daughters belonged to the BCLFSC for many years, and I'm certain we paid for half of the seating with the 6AM ice times - when the hockey players refused take those times to practice!!) I am now asking for support for a sport that the older population can enjoy along with the younger members of our community, and a substantially less cost, than we as a community have spent on other venues! PLEASE - these are life long sports, that MANY of all ages can enjoy!! Allowing there to be snow making makes it safer, so the trails are groomed, and not icy!! PLEASE, consider this request!! 1 Sincerely, Teri Carter Ellis 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:09 PM Subject: FW: Snow making in Edina Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Thomas Shaw [mailto:clothingbureau(ausiwireless.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:46 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Snow making in Edina As a coach of the Edina High School Cross Coutry Ski Team, I am writing in support of snow making at Braemar Golf course. I understand that the Edina City Council is considering withdrawing this request. At minimum, I request that the proposal be tabled and not withdrawn. Severe reductions in the team's practice area at Edina High School due to building construction and improvement of the multi-use trail leaves this highly competative team in a difficult situation as regards training space. Respectfully, Thomas G. Shaw 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:09 PM Subject: FW: Winter Recreation at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: mendelco [mailto:mendelco@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:52 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Winter Recreation at Braemar Dear City Council, We would like to show our support for the ski trails with snow making at Braemar. Our daughter is on the Nordic ski team at the high school. Nordic is a "no cut" sport at the high school - we need those sports in Edina for more students to feel connected and stay active. Nordic can also be enjoyed by many age groups. We believe that the problem with the proposal was the addition of the tubing hill. We really don't need that. Please table the discussion until September and we are sure you could come up with a good compromise. Thank you, Nancy and Rob Mendel Sent from my iPad Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:10 PM Subject: FW: Nordic area Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Lisa Hollensteiner [mailto:hollensteinerlisa@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:52 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Nordic area City council members-I am writing to express my support for snowmaking at Braemar. The 200 Nordic team members do not have anywhere significant to practice for their season with all the construction around the high school. Hyland only allows them about one slot a week. It would be a great use for Braemar in the winter to have nordic ski trails.I know there have been cost concerns. I admit I am not as sold on the tubing as there are other places in the metro to tube, so perhaps cutting out the tubing would bring down the cost. Please take time to consider all sides of this issue and do not make a hasty decision. Thank you. Lisa Hollensteiner 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:11 PM Subject: FW: snowmaking at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Slater Crosby [mailto:scrosby@thelittleciym.conn] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:54 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: snowmaking at Braemar HI I am in total support of snowmaking at Braemar. I feel that the city did a really poor job in explaining the noise of the snowmaking and the brightness of the lights. I think the neighbors got the impression that this would be like the Hyland Hills downhill ski area, which to my understanding it would be NOT like the downhill area. The lights would be directional (down the ski trail but not sure of the tubing hill direction of lights compared to neighboring homes) and the snowmaking guns would be smaller and quieter than the downhill area. Unless I am totally of base these facts need to be addressed for the neighbors to feel more comfortable. The community needs to support this and realize what a great asset it would be for the area to have another winter recreation option. I live about 1 mile from the proposed winter wonderland and plan on using it daily. I think the team of `supporters' needs more time to get educated with the concerns that the neighbors brought up and talk again in September at the meeting. I am a neighbor in support! Make sense? Slater Slater CrosbyI Chief Funny Officer p: 952.924.00831 c: 612.414.7923 8223 Hwy 7 1 St. Louis Park,MN 55426 TheLittleGym.com/edinamn 1 Website http://thelittlegymofedina.com/ Blog Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:11 PM Subject: FW: Braemar.Snowmaking Proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Kassandra Kuehl [mailto:kassandrakuehl@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:01 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar.Snowmaking Proposal To Whom it May Concern, My name is Kassandra Kuehl. I am an Edina resident and I live roughly three miles from Braemer. I have reached out to you in regards to this matter before, but I would like to echo my previous statements of support. I have heard through the grapevine that you are considering withdrawing your support from the Braemer snow project (including snowmaking) due to concerns from residents who neighbor Braemer. While I have no desire to inconvenience my fellow residents, I strongly urge you to consider the needs of the many (residents and guests from other places) when making your decision. Nearly every public works project inconveniences someone, at least for a short period of time. But this project has the ability to benefit hundreds, if not thousands of individuals in Edina and surrounding areas. Especially given the increasingly erratic weather patterns we are experiencing as global warming progresses, it is becoming harder and harder to enjoy Minnesota's outdoor wonders during the winter season. This project would give so many of us the ability to exercise, explore and generally enjoy the outdoors in winters to come. While Braemer's neighbors may have legitimate concerns, the rest of us do too and those concerns deserve your careful consideration. Many thanks, Kassandra Kuehl Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:12 PM Subject: FW: Support for Snow making at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Robert Syring [mailto:rsyring796@gnnail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:03 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Support for Snow making at Braemar To the Edina City Council, I strongly support snow making at Braemar for Nordic Skiing. I believe it will encourage outdoor usage of these valuable facilities in the winter and is consistent with support of recreation for all Edina residents. If there is a discussion of this proposal at the City Council Meeting this week, I would request that any decision on this topic be tabled until the September meeting. Thank you, Robert Syring 4117 Kipling Edina 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:13 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Donation Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov j www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: andyt@hoigaards.com [mailto:andyt@hoigaards.corn] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:05 PM To: Edina Mail Cc: Frannie Kuhs Subject: Braemar Donation The Edina High School Nordic Ski Team is fully committed to using the Braemar trails as they become available. To further show that the team is "all in" on the project the Edina Nordic Booster Group is willing to commit $10,000 towards the project to be used as needed. We are excited by the prospect of world class skiing within our community. Sincerely Andy Turnbull Head Coach EHS Nordic Ski Team 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:17 PM Subject: FW: Snowmaking at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno(@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Sara Jones [mailto:shjones05(agmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:10 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Snowmaking at Braemar Dear Council Members, I know you recently heard concerns from Braemar area residents regarding the winter recreation ideas for Braemar. I urge you to postpone tomorrow's vote to give those of us in favor of it the time to gather evidence of the support for it from the greater community. Can you wait until the September meeting? Thanks for your thoughtful consideration, Sara 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:21 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Laura and Jim Rubin [mailto:URubin@msn.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:12 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Please do NOT shelf the ideas for winter rec at Braemar. Our family was very excited about having a Nordic ski trail here in Edina and now we hear it may not happen. This is one more strong vote in favor. Please keep the option on the table. Thx, Jim Rubin Active Edina Family 1 Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 8:30 PM To: Janet Canton Subject: FW: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal For Park Board Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattrehEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Kelly McNulty [mailto:33kellyj(agmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:39 PM To: Mary Brindle; James Hovland; Kevin Staunton; Robert Stewart; swensonann1(&gmail.com; Ann Kattreh Subject: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal Please vote NO on the Braemar Nordic Ski proposal. While this project is a huge waste of taxpayer dollars, even scarier is that it will be detrimental to wildlife, it will decimate beautiful trees, and it is a danger to roads and nearby homes. The noise, lights, snow makers - all would be tremendous eye sores to people who know and love the wildlife in that area. I am also VERY concerned about the chemicals the artificial snow contains. There are no studies to show the impact this will have on housing communities so closely placed, not to mention the wildlife. Please vote NO on the Braemar Nordic Ski proposal. Kelly McNulty 6001 Bonnie Brae Dr. Edina MN 1 Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 8:30 PM To: Janet Canton Subject: FW: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal Park Board Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattrehEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Wendy McNulty [mailto:w mcnulty@yahoo.conn] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:30 PM To: Mary Brindle; James Hovland; Kevin Staunton; Robert Stewart; swensonannl@gmail.com; Ann Kattreh Subject: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal This project is a huge waste of taxpayer dollars, detrimental to wildlife, will decimate beautiful trees, a danger to roads and nearby homes. I am also VERY concerned about the chemicals the artificial snow contains. Please vote NO on the Braemar Nordic Ski proposal. Wendy McNulty 6001 Bonnie Brae Dr. Edina MN 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:15 AM Subject: FW: Snowmaking at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Samantha [mailto:samanthaebeversPgmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:26 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Snowmaking at Braemar Hello. My name is Samantha Bevers and I am a Sophomore Nordic (Cross Country) Skier at Edina High School. I am very much in favor of the Winter Recreation Proposal at Braemar. It will really help our team with the fact that the construction on our school is going to extremely reduce the amount of trails that we have to train on. Being able to train every day after school is really important to the success of our team and to the joy and exercise gained from this sport. I hope that you, the city council, will consider at least tabling the decision until September so that our team can get even more support for this Proposal. Thank you, and I hope that we will be able to train at Braemar with prepared snow this winter season. Sincerely, Samantha Bevers 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:17 AM Subject: FW: Support for Winter Recreation Proposal at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Cheryl Behling [mailto:cbehl4(amsn.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:27 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Support for Winter Recreation Proposal at Braemar Hello, We live in the Morningside area and we are writing to express our support for the Winter Recreation Proposal at Braemar. We have two daughters on the Edina Nordic Ski team. This team is one of the largest teams at the high school and provides instruction to students for this lifelong sport. Ski trails at Braemar would be great for the ski team and also for others who enjoy the sport. The ski trails would be a great asset to the city of Edina. Thank you, Chris and Cheryl Behling 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:18 AM Subject: FW: Snowmaking at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Amy Scott [mailto:amyraescott@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:30 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Snowmaking at Braemar Our family is strongly in support of snowmaking at Braemar to replace the snowmaking on groomed trails that we are losing due to the construction projects going on in the city. We have 2 students on the high school Nordic team and 2 adults who enjoy skiing in Edina. We are very sad to see the current trails go and excited for the possibility of creating new trails and snowmaking for our community! Thanks for considering this amazing opportunity. Amy Scott & Mike Calvo 5509 Dever Drive Edina, MN 55424 Amy Scott, MA, LAM FT Mental Health Practitioner Community School Collaborative @ Menlo Park Academy 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:21 AM Subject: FW: Winter Recreation at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoCa I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Yonghua Chen [mailto:yonghua.chen@seagate.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:30 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Winter Recreation at Braemar City Council Members, I am Yonghua Chen, living at 6028 Erin Terrace. Our family would love to see a nordic trail at Braemar. Thank you for your considerations! Yonghua Chen 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:23 AM Subject: FW: Support for the Winter Recreation Proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Emily Boettge [mailto:dboettge@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 5:21 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Support for the Winter Recreation Proposal Dear Mayor Hovland and Members of the City Council, My name is Emily Boettge and I live in the Cornelia neighborhood. I am writing to offer my support for the Winter Recreation Proposal at Braemar. I believe that a winter sports area would be a great asset to our community. Due to the current renovations at the golf course, now is the perfect time to think about and implement ways to make Braemar more inviting to the community at large. In particular, the cross country ski trails would be a bonus not only for residents, but for the Edina Nordic Ski Team. I think that supporting Edina Nordic skiers should be a high priority because the team recently lost their former training area due to construction at the high school. Although a lovely place to ski, Hyland Hills is very busy in the winter and it would be nice to support our skiers with trails closer to home. Furthermore, staying active in the winter is difficult in Edina due to snow, ice, lack of sidewalks and shorter days. A city park such as Braemar is a perfect place to make an inviting outdoor winter recreation area. Fat tire biking on trails, tubing and cross country skiing would offer so many fun options. I hope that you move forward with the proposed winter sports area. Sincerely, Emily Boettge 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:24 AM Subject: FW: Nordic Trails Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Emily Behling [mailto:ebswim225@gmail.com Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 5:27 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Nordic Trails Hi, my name is Emily Behling and I live in the Morningside neighborhood. I'm a captain on the edina nordic team and I support the Braemar nordic ski trails. The edina nordic team is one of the biggest teams in the whole high school. The team allows hundreds of kids to exercise during the harsh Minnesota winters. Nordic skiing is a life long sport, and many different people would be able to enjoy these trails. These trails would be a great benefit to the community. I believe that the benefits to this project far outweigh the risks. Thanks, Emily Behling 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:25 AM Subject: FW: Please table your vote on Snow-making at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: MaggieE-mail [mailto:mmbraun6@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 5:35 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Please table your vote on Snow-making at Braemar Dear City Counsel, We are residence of the City of Edina and we strongly support the need to add snow-making and Nordic trails at Braemar(not necessarily snow tubing). Our understanding is the City Counsel is going to withdraw this proposal at tomorrows meeting. We are requesting that you the City Counsel please table this issue until after the summer months to allow more voices to be heard. We do support adding snow-making and Nordic ski trails at Braemar. With the new construction at the high school, the Nordic ski team(which is a huge all-inclusive team of middle school and high school students) will not have an area to practice. Also, Nordic skiing is a life time, healthy sport. We enjoy it ourselves and feel strongly that it would be a wonderful addition to our community. Thank you for your consideration. Karl, Maggie, Isabelle, August, Frank and Bridget Braun 1 Janet Canton From: Sent: Subject: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:27 AM FW: snowmaking at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoREdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Slater Crosby [mailto:scrosby@thelittlegym.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 5:48 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Re: snowmaking at Braemar Thanks, I think the process needs to be two part. Gain support first, work on the details second. If things get too technical in the beginning it gets off subject too fast. The facts are that the winter sports are growing and our communities to grow with the interest. The nordic team right now has volunteer parents making snow and grooming the trails. When was the last time parents volunteered to water and shovel the Varsity Hockey rinks? I can't remember either because the rinks and zamboni's have been in place for years. The truth is that the snowmaking does not happen every day all winter, it happens for a good week (maybe 2) in December and then very little for the rest of the year and the neighbors should know these facts. The community needs more outlets for these winter sports and Braemar is a great option with its terrain to help Edina to have some of the best parks and recreational facilities in the country. It's funny, all summer the sun goes down at 10PM, no one complains about that, or the kids screaming at the Edina Pool all day long.....so why complain about the lights at the proposed site? Thanks for your time, I did not mean to ramble Slater Slater Crosby! Chief Funny Officer p: 952.924.00831 c: 612.414.7923 8223 Hwy 7 1 St. Louis Park,MN 55426 TheLittleGym.com/edinamn 1 Website http://thelittlegymofedina.com/ Blog On Aug 2, 2016, at 4:10 PM, Edina Mail <mail@EdinaMN.gov> wrote: Dear Slater, 1 Thank you for your interest in the City of Edina. I have forwarded your message to the Mayor and Council members. If I can be of additional assistance to you please contact me. Lynette Biunno, Receptionist <image00 1 . gif> 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.clov From: Slater Crosby [mailto:scrosby(&thelittlegym.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:54 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: snowmaking at Braemar HI I am in total support of snowmaking at Braemar. I feel that the city did a really poor job in explaining the noise of the snowmaking and the brightness of the lights. I think the neighbors got the impression that this would be like the Hyland Hills downhill ski area, which to my understanding it would be NOT like the downhill area. The lights would be directional (down the ski trail but not sure of the tubing hill direction of lights compared to neighboring homes) and the snowmaking guns would be smaller and quieter than the downhill area. Unless I am totally of base these facts need to be addressed for the neighbors to feel more comfortable. The community needs to support this and realize what a great asset it would be for the area to have another winter recreation option. I live about 1 mile from the proposed winter wonderland and plan on using it daily. I think the team of 'supporters' needs more time to get educated with the concerns that the neighbors brought up and talk again in September at the meeting. I am a neighbor in support! Make sense? Slater Slater Crosbyl Chief Funny Officer p: 952.924.00831 c: 612.414.7923 8223 Hwy 7 1 St. Louis Park,MN 55426 TheLittleGym.com/edinamn 1 Website http://thelittlegymofedina.com/ Blog <image002.gif> <image003.gif><image004.git 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:28 AM Subject: FW: Nordic Trails at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Wendy and Bob Syring [mailto:syrbob@earthlink.net] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 6:03 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Nordic Trails at Braemar Dear Edina City Council, I would like to offer my support for the Winter Recreation Development Proposal, especially the development of a Nordic ski trail at Braemar. I think it is an excellent idea! Nordic skiing is a fast-growing lifelong sport that all ages and abilities can enjoy. To have a manmade snow loop available to all Edina residents would be an incredible benefit. I have heard that there is confusion about some aspects of the project, mostly lighting and snowmaking, perhaps more information could be provided that would relieve those concerns. Maybe the tubing hill development could be delayed? Please take the time to consider the many different elements of this brilliant idea. The Nordic trails would quickly become an asset, like our many hockey rinks, to the local neighborhood and city. Please consider this project thoughtfully! Thank you, Wendy Laederach Syring 4117 Kipling Ave Edina, MN 55416 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:29 AM Subject: FW: Support the Winter Braemar additions Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Jay Rudi [mailto:I.rudi@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 6:23 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Support the Winter Braemar additions Hello, My name is Jay Rudi. I live at 4708 Valley View Road, Edina 55424. I support the proposal to add winter activities at Braemar, including Nordic skiing trails. Edina is a wonderful community to live in. Winters can be long in MN so the more activities we have to enjoy and participate in, the better our quality of life. I support this progressive step into the future. Thank you! Jay Rudi 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:35 AM Subject: FW: Support snowmaking and healthy lifestyles for Edina residents! Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: shgage@comcast.net [mailto:shgage@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 6:53 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Support snowmaking and healthy lifestyles for Edina residents! To the Edina City Council, I am a strong supporter of the snowmaking proposal for the Braemar golf course and hope that you will not withdraw the proposal as I have heard. I am writing to ask that you table the decision about the Braemar snowmaking proposal until the September meeting in order to provide a bit more time for conversation between residents on both sides of the debate. I am an Edina resident (5813 Amy Drive, 55436), a winter enthusiast, and a parent of two members of the Edina High School Nordic ski team. I attended the July 13th meeting and feel that those opposed to the proposal have a great deal of misinformation. • Many seemed to think that this was an idea that just popped up rather than something that had been discussed for quite a while by the park board. • Others are under the belief that there will be long periods of time of snowmaking, when in fact it's limited to the beginning of the season. • Many worried about ice/snow being blown on the nearby driveways and roads. Yes, it will happen, but not likely to the extent that they are envisioning. Highway 35 runs right in front of Buck Hill where significantly more snow guns are used for longer periods of time, and there is not an icy road problem. • One man spoke that there were numerous public places for residents and ski team members to ski, but in fact they (Hyland Park, Theodore Wirth Park, and Elm Creek Park) are extremely busy (something I don't enjoy) and they limit access to the team to approximately one time a week. The trail at the high school has been shortened by the construction, and is very difficult for two coaches to maintain (along with their day jobs and coaching positions). The old when it was purchased equipment breaks frequently as that's what the team could afford. Additionally, I think Edina needs to think beyond the "winter is hockey season" frame of mind. There is no shortage of ice rinks, and to investment into other activities in which family members can all partake would be as forward thinking as the Centennial Lakes development was during its initial 1 planning. The addition of skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing to the Braemar golf course is a great way to increase its usage while leveraging the existing infrastructure. It would be another example of how Edina promotes healthy lifestyles for its residents, and it would benefit the more than 200 students (ranging from completely new skiers to competitive racers) who join the high school team to have a place to call their training space. This is a no-cut sport and provides a great experience for kids who aren't gifted athletes. Thank you for your consideration, Sheryl Gage 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:36 AM Subject: FW: VOTE NO Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Pam Hughes [mailto:phughes423@yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 8:02 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: VOTE NO To all City Council members, As a long time Edina resident, I would like to urge all of you to vote NO to the redevelopment plan at Braemar Golf Course due to begin in Oct. of this year. My husband and I believe this plan is waste of money, will destroy beautiful wooded areas and wildlife habitats, increase traffic, noise and congestion to our peaceful city. There are a multitude of other reasons to vote No, that are more eloquently described in the online petition, we hope you have all reviewed. Sincerely, Pamela Hughes 5850 Creek Valley Rd Edina Sent from my iPhone 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:37 AM Subject: FW: Ski trails Lynette Biunno, Receptionist. 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Sophia Behling [mailto:seb 29@msn.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 8:42 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Ski trails Hi, I'm Sophia B., I'm on the Edina ski team and I live in Edina. I'm writing to express my concern about the ski trails at Braemar because the trails at the Edina High school are closing and Braemar would be a great alternative near the high school for all skiers to practice. Not only would this benefit all the members of the Edina nordic team but it would also be an alternative for other skiers to have a great place to ski. Thanks, Sophia Behling 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:42 AM Subject: FW: We support winter recreation at Braemar! Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Elizabeth Burnett [mailto:eburnettmail@lgmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 10:13 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: We support winter recreation at Braemar! Dear City Council members, Please continue to evaluate Winter Recreation Proposal at Braemar. We live at 4821 Vandervork Ave. in Edina, and we are huge fans of cross-country skiing, with two children on the EHS Nordic team and another soon there. In addition, we love to ski recreationally as a family. Cross-country skiing is such a terrific winter activity for all ages, all abilities. Having ski trails accessible to the community would be a huge asset to Edina. . The ski trails proposed at Braemar are essential to the Edina High School Nordic ski team, as the team is losing trails to construction and the Nine Mile Creek project. This team is a wonderful asset to the Edina school system, as it is one of the only sports with no cuts. Also, kids from 7th to 12th grade can participate, making it a wonderful opportunity for both middle and high school students to stay in shape while also gaining a lifetime sport. These trails would also be a tremendous asset to the community by providing a convenient, accessible way for citizens of all ages to ski. Let's keep both our kids and adults healthy and active by making these trails available to all! We truly appreciate your support on this issue Sincerely, Elizabeth Burnett and Adam Mans Abby, Henry, and Peter Mans 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:49 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Winter Recreation Area Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Julie turnbull [mailto:jhturnbull(@hotnnail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 10:17 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Winter Recreation Area City Council and Members of Edina Park Board- My husband and I were just at our neighborhood block party- we discussed the proposal for Braemar. Most of our neighbors are on the "Next Door" site that is for neighborhoods and have seen the negative misinformation that is being sent every day. The majority of neighbors that we spoke to and gave them the facts were absolutely in favor of the entire project. We have a young active neighborhood and many interested in the tubing hill for kids and ski trails for themselves and friends. We have lived in Edina for almost 40 years and have seen the community add many amenities for hockey, baseball, playgrounds, soccer, parks and many others- we have supported all of these since we felt anything that makes a community more livable and inviting is a plus!! Please we urge you all to move ahead with the entire Braemar winter recreation project. We love Edina because our leaders have had the foresight to provide facilities that encourage a healthy active lifestyle. Thanks for your consideration. Julie Turnbull Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:52 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Winter Recreation Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Ondrej Vesely [mailto:ondrej.vesely@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 11:30 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Winter Recreation Dear Edina City Council, I oppose the Braemar Winter Recreation project. In my opinion, it is financially questionable, destroys natural habitat, and creates significant burden on the surrounding residential neighborhood. In particular, the proposed length of the cross-country ski trails (3.0 km = 1.9 miles) does not compare to existing 9.5 miles of ski trails in Hyland Lake Park Reserve (which is located just few miles south across highway 494) and does not in my opinion justify such a reckless and significant disturbance of the existing wildlife habitat. Also, please help me understand how does snow tubing align with Edina's strategic plan and vision. Kind regards, Ondrej Vesely 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:53 AM Subject: FW: Nordic ski trails Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Chris Lawler [mailto:clawler21@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 1:03 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Nordic ski trails Hi, I am writing support snow making on ski trails at Braemar. I live and work in Edina and would use the trails myself and with my family. Cally Lawler Chermak Sent from my iPad 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:54 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Winter Recreation Area Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Deb Carlson [mailto:debjcrlsragmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 5:50 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Winter Recreation Area Dear City Council Members, I am disappointed to hear that the proposal for cross country trails and snowmaking at Braemar is possibly going to be taken off the table. These trails would be a very positive addition to the community much like the 9 Mile bike trail that initially was also very negatively received by neighbors. Please consider delaying your decision to allow for more input in the process. As Edina residents, our family would positively benefit from the use of the trails. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Deb Carlson 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:55 AM Subject: FW: Cross Country Ski Trails Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Kristin Engman [rnailto:kristinengnnan@yahoo.corn] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 6:52 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Cross Country Ski Trails Dear City Council, We are writing to ask you to please consider making cross country ski trails at Braemar. This for a number of reasons. This would be a great use of land for Braemar and bring people there not only in the winter, but also lure them back for summer months of golf. I am sure that it would also help the restaurant at Braemar. The high school Nordic team now has no place to practice, due to the construction of the high school. Practicing at Hylands isn't an option, due to other teams using the space as well. I am positive that if this was hockey that was being dealt with, there would be something done for them. Nordic skiing is one of the most popular sports for high school kids to participate in at Edina. Last year their number was over 130. The cross country trails would also be used by other residents of Edina, and bring people in from other parts of the city. And, if a snow tubing hill was created, this would also bring many families into our town for great family fun. The other snow tubing options are in Elm Creek (Maple Grove) and Buck Hill (Burnsville). I am positive that a plan can be made where natural resources (trees, etc) are saved and trails can be made. The snow making does not occur around the clock, but only as needed. We made snow for the team last year and it is a simple and relatively fast process. We strongly support the Winter Recreation Proposal at Braemar. Please help the families and kids at Edina enjoy winter and the community we live in. Sincerely Jon and Kristin Engman 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:56 AM Subject: FW: Winter recreation area Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: slebakken(agmail.com [mailto:slebakken@gmail.com] On Behalf Of Sue Lebakken Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 7:50 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Winter recreation area Members of the City Council, My name is Sue Lebakken and I have a daughter on the Edina Nordic team. I am in support of trails for the team and community at Braemar and also understand the community concerns over the loss of trees and other neighborhood issues. I urge you to keep the Winter Recreation proposal active while everyone educates themselves on the full impact on the community. It is easy to sign a petition without knowing all of the facts and issues leading up to the proposed changes at Braemar. I live near South View Middle School and see all of the sports supported by having the stadium, track and pool for them to practice and host games and meets. I would like to see Braemar expanded to support the Edina Nordic team and bring community members out for recreational skiing. Skiing is a relatively quiet sport that can be done in a quaint, treed setting. Respectfully, Sue Lebakken 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:58 AM Subject: FW: support winter recreation proposal at braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Jane Wang [mailto:janewang.cao@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:46 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: support winter recreation proposal at braemar Hello, My name is Jane Wang and I'm a ninth grader and a third grader's mom living in Edina. My son went to the nordic team last year and really enjoyed it. I stronger urge everyone in the city council to reconsider paving /snowmaking the tracks for the teenagers. Or at least table the decision until September. We need something attractive to our teenagers to do outdoors and with their friends. You don't want to see them playing video games and making friends virtually. Thank you, Jnae 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:59 AM Subject: FW: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoCa I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Wendy McNulty [mailto:w mcnulty@yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:30 PM To: Mary Brindle; James Hovland; Kevin Staunton; Robert Stewart; swensonann1(agmail.com; Ann Kattreh Subject: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal This project is a huge waste of taxpayer dollars, detrimental to wildlife, will decimate beautiful trees, a danger to roads and nearby homes. I am also VERY concerned about the chemicals the artificial snow contains. Please vote NO on the Braemar Nordic Ski proposal. Wendy McNulty 6001 Bonnie Brae Dr. Edina MN 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:59 AM Subject: FW: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoREdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Kelly McNulty [mailto:33kellyjOgmail.corn] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:39 PM To: Mary Brindle; James Hovland; Kevin Staunton; Robert Stewart; swensonannl@gmail.com; Ann Kattreh Subject: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal Please vote NO on the Braemar Nordic Ski proposal. While this project is a huge waste of taxpayer dollars, even scarier is that it will be detrimental to wildlife, it will decimate beautiful trees, and it is a danger to roads and nearby homes. The noise, lights, snow makers - all would be tremendous eye sores to people who know and love the wildlife in that area. I am also VERY concerned about the chemicals the artificial snow contains. There are no studies to show the impact this will have on housing communities so closely placed, not to mention the wildlife. Please vote NO on the Braemar Nordic Ski proposal. Kelly McNulty 6001 Bonnie Brae Dr. Edina MN 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 9:00 AM Subject: FW: Nordic Skiing Project Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: irnac6001@aol.com [nnailto:jrnac6001©aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 4:59 PM To: swensonannl@gmail.com; Robert Stewart; Kevin Staunton; Mary Brindle; James Hovland Subject: Nordic Skiing Project Dear Council Members, My family and I are residents of the Braemar area. For the second time in just a few years I, and many of our neighbors, have been surprised to learn that the hills of Braemar Park, overlooking Gleason, are being considered for major project development. The first project was to develop the park area into a motorized motor bike trail, with all the disruptions of noise and harming wild life in the park. Fortunately this project went nowhere. The second project is, of course the Nordic Skiing proposal. Both projects seemed to appear from nowhere, but were obviously supported by Park and Rec since each project had consultants and other experts presenting their proposals. As mentioned, as neighbors we were very surprised these projects had gotten so far, and there was virtually no neighborhood input. How does this happen? From our prospective, it appears that Park and Rec jumps from project to project without much consideration to the neighborhood. By now, you have received numerous letters, emails phone calls, etc. that clearly do not support this latest proposed intrusion into the surrounding neighborhoods. The consultants that proposed the project were overly biased in support of the project, and quickly dismissed the "minor" inconveniences of noise (they did a Db test in the middle of summer, with all the leaves on the trees, and at high relative temperatures and dew points), lighting, overspray, cost, road safety, etc. The financial numbers in support of the project were acknowledged as "soft", which means they cannot be used to justify the project. The only redeeming feature of the proposal was that it would cost less now, due to the golf course reconfiguration. In other words, it may not be a good project, or self funding, etc., but nevertheless, let's do it now because it will be more costly in the future. That's not good enough. I think the Council will experience a lot of criticism on that basis. I suggest that supporting this project is the wrong thing to do on your collective parts. The project was not and never was part of the long range plan, which violates the intent of the plan, it is very costly, the disruption to the neighborhoods is major (including loss of property values), and the long term financial exposure to the city for curing overspray problems and avoiding overspray related accidents is potentially overwhelming (remember, the consultants are long gone). Please vote no. James A. McNulty 6001 Bonnie Brae Drive 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 9:02 AM Subject: FW: SUPPORT BRAEMAR WINTER REC AREA!!! Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: eli6223@aol.com [rnailto:e1i6223@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 11:10 PM To: James Hovland Subject: Re: SUPPORT BRAEMAR WINTER REC AREA!!! Hello again, and thank you for your response! My husband, and our daughter and future son in law, discussed this tonight. Our daughter and future son in law, skied and snow shoed with us last winter and afterward had dinner at the Tin Fish. They are also awaiting closing on their first home, in Edina, the end of the month!! Here is the gist of our discussion! Trails: I am a recreational cross country skier, as are all of our family members. I have asked family members if this seems normal ( 3 members of our family have taught downhill skiing at Hyland Hills), and they said this is probably about the width of their trails. This seemed reasonable to me, as when I have skied at Hyland, the Minneapolis Lakes Luminary Loppet, and other areas, you have 2 different ski techniques - classic and skate. Usually there are 2 set tracks for the classic- for people to ski next to each other, or for a faster skier to pass a slower one. Then next to those are room for the skate skiers. Their technique is such that they would erase the tracks set for classic. Ski etiquette- (not unlike golf etiquette)- skate skiers do not ski over the tracks set for classic! So they coexist together. So, yes 25 ft wide, if that is what is recommended, seems appropriate. (I have not taken out my tape measure while skiing, but it does seem reasonable. I am a designer by profession, so maybe I should get it out!) It could also leave room for snow shoes or hikers to one side of the trail, so they do not disturb the tracks. The expense of this to me does not seem unreasonable. The plans I have seen, and read or heard about, I believe call for using part of the maintenance road -for the golf course- which is not used in the winter. I believe it would be close to the proposed 25 feet width discussed above. I believe that a good portion of the trail is proposed to be on this road, and that would help the cost and seems reasonable. I usually do not go off into the woods on my cross country skis, but we do on our snow shoes. I am not comfortable with mountain bikes flying past me. Having grown up, and raised children here and understanding the nature of adolescents, the idea of opening part of the golf course, to mountain bikes seems to fly in the face of preserving and maintaining the golf course, and cross country ski trails and snow shoe trails - which are pedestrian trails. I know in northern Wisconsin, they actually have specific trails for specific sports, - skiing, hiking, or mountain biking, or snowmobiling/4 wheeling, and it is enforced. I'm not as comfortable with mountain bikes with more pedestrian sports on the same shared trails. This would not be unlike the city lakes have separate paths for walking/running, and another for bikes and roller blades. Snowmaking: This would be the ONLY designated cross country ski trail in Edina!! Our winters are becoming more erratic, as to when we do get snow. The well is already at Braemar. (We are also golfers, and as I said before 4 of my immediate family have worked at BGC, so we are very familiar with it!) The city is already putting in all new irrigation for the golf course. I/We had believed - hoped that they were considering as they were doing the golf course, they would save money, by combining the plans for snow making. This seems totally appropriate to do now!! We have seen this discussed in the Sun, and had assumed it was an ongoing discussion with the city. Several years ago, while skiing at Braemar, the snow started out great, but as we came around on the sunnier side, the trail turned to rocks and ice. I took a good fall. If we had the snow making, this would eliminate the icy, rocky trail, that I tumbled on! From another point of view- Braemar has been used for cross country skiing for at least 45 years! Golfers have complained of the greens being chewed up by skiers, so a snow covered designated trail, would help preserve the greens and should save money for repairs from the golf course side! My husband is an engineer working with water and air purification. We have also had information that he DNR would like to have the well at Braemar used year round to help abate the radon build up when it is not in use. Another win for the city for healthy water! When you put all of the above together, we are dismayed and really do not understand why there is such noise on the proposed winter park at Braemar! We are really wondering if those pushing against it are stay at home, inside, non exercisers, or if they are snow birds! If you build it - they will come!! Pamela Park, is the park our children and I grew up in. A few weeks ago, as we walked our dog, we estimated 500-600 people playing soccer and baseball and watching the games. I have NEVER seen that many people out for a walks on the paths, in my life in that park! It is wonderful to interact with neighbors we have never met, all because, we finally have paths linking 58th Street to 62nd Street to Oaklawn!! We have been anxiously awaiting having a winter playground at Braemar, and have read the articles in the Sun, and talked about it with family and friends for several years now. When we were first married, and purchased our first home in Edina in 1978, we talked about how nice it would be if after skiing, we could go into the club house for hot cocoa, and something to eat. It seemed such a waste to have that beautiful park empty for 6 months of the year. The Tin Fish is a success!! The park is just waiting to be completed! PLEASE, We ask you to seriously consider completing the Winter Park at Braemar! I wish I could attend the meeting tomorrow, but have a work commitment. Please forward any other questions, 4 family members discussed this over dinner tonight, and are all hoping to see this continue! Sincerely, Teri Carter Ellis and Jim Ellis Original Message From: James Hovland <JHovlandEdinaMN.gov> To: 'eli6223@aol.com' <eli6223aol.com> Sent: Tue, Aug 2, 2016 4:15 pm Subject: RE: SUPPORT BRAEMAR WINTER REC AREA!!! Hello, Thank you for your note below and support for active lifestyles in Edina. I would like your opinion of snow making, which is likely the major objection to the idea that is being talked about in the community. I learned that a single track trail, outfitted with plumbing for snowmaking, would need to be 25 feet wide. That seems excessive to me and expensive. 2 How would you feel about a tracked x-country ski trail around the circumference of the golf course? That would leave the trails in the wooded areas as they are, for use by hikers, snow showers and mountain bikers. I would appreciate your opinion. Thank you, Mary Brindle. From: eli6223@aol.com [mailto:e1i6223@aol.corn] Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2016 3:19 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: SUPPORT BRAEMAR WINTER REC AREA!!! Edina Mayor, City Council, Park Board, PLEASE!!! Please allow residents to have a chance to make the case for the winter park area and give us until Sep 7th!! My husband and I attended Edina schools, and grew up here. We raised our family here, and now, our children are beginning to move back to raise their families here. We have always been active participants of the Edina parks. My husband, and all 3 of our children's 1st jobs were at the Braemar Golf Course. When my husband and I were first married in 1977 - our first home was in Edina, and were just starting out, we spent many evenings in the winter cross country skiing across Braemar GC by moonlight! It was beautiful then, and still is. We had the joy of attending an event last winter to snow shoe and then eat dinner at the Tin Fish. Neither of us had ever seen so many people enjoying the park in the winter!! It was over an hours wait for dinner-- both the restaurant, and the room behind it were totally full!! It is a treasure that many do not realize is here to use! The Tin Fish, we saw several times, was bringing people to the park to ski, and show shoe! We are SO happy that this is happening!! We quickly began using the park and restaurant! We are in our early 60's now. Our city has done much for the youth of our city. Cross Country Skiing, and Snow shoeing are winter outdoor activities that older adults can enjoy!! We are planning on participating in them for many years to come, and hoping that the city will use resources so that we have a lovely venue to do this, as we have provided for our younger members!! My father in law just hung up his ski's at 85!! You won't find us- or many people in our age group playing hockey!! - But we have helped to build and support those EXPENSIVE hobbies!! (Our daughters belonged to the BCLFSC for many years, and I'm certain we paid for half of the seating with the 6AM ice times - when the hockey players refused take those times to practice!!) I am now asking for support for a sport that the older population can enjoy along with the younger members of our community, and a substantially less cost, than we as a community have spent on other venues! PLEASE - these are life long sports, that MANY of all ages can enjoy!! Allowing there to be snow making makes it safer, so the trails are groomed, and not icy!! PLEASE, consider this request!! Sincerely, Teri Carter Ellis 3 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 9:39 AM Subject: FW: Redone wording Attachments: Best Braemar Overlook With colored Trailsjpg; Comparison Chart.pdf; Hornet Hills Compromise.pdf Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Bruce Freeman [mailto:brucefreeman05@earthlink.net] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:21 AM To: Jim Hovland; James Hovland Subject: Redone wording Myor Hovland I'm sure you have received a lot of feedback on the nordic plan for Braemar but I hope you will still review this comparison chart and compromise plan I have put together for you that lays out the argument for a compromise plan that keeps the nordic team at Hornet Hills and leaves the east ridge at Braemar in its natural state where mtn biking trails can be created. A key issue in support of the nordic plan is having the xc team move from hornet hills to Braemar because of the supposed problem with plowing on the new trail wiping out the xc trail. I have personally spoken with Eric Nelson and Jonathan Fleming at 3 Rivers about the plowing issue on the new trail below the high school school and they both told me that 3 River does not plow any trails in any city and has no plans to plow in the future. And they send me the documentation. The city of Edina can plow if they want to at their own expense and assumption of all legal liabilities. And even if some date in the future 3 Rivers decides to plow or Edina decides to plow it can be easily agreed to plow but allow mat crossings like the kind used at Buck Hill so xc skiers can cross and bikers can ride across. This is not an issue but merely an excuse to try and push through an extremely expensive and not really wanted community asset. Please don't just leave the mtn bike community hanging regardless as to the outcome of the nordic plan and makes us wait another two years or more while more money is spent on consultants creating some kind of Braemar master plan. Please help fund us now to start laying out the trail and building it. Mountain biking is a perfect fit for Braemar, costs a tiny fraction of any other sport, and is growing rapidly. Please help us move forward this fall, not 2-3 years in the future. Thank you so much for your time. Bruce Freeman www.bfreemandesign.com See it before you build it! 612-812-2180 1 F u tu re S. amp woodhOoarshivalk --Existing Floating Wk W alay'. East Ridges Parking (et &Alike Comparison Chart Compromise Hornet Hills and the Ridges at Braemar Nordic Plan Hornet Hills Compromise Mountain Biking Plan Environment Huge effect in total Minimal Effect, water Keep 100% Natural State Trees 100 trees 0 Removed 0 - 10 Trees Remove Buckthorn Water 7 Million Gal / Yr 500K —1 Mil Gal / Year 0 water used Electricity Gas Lighting, snow making, Grooming Gas for Compressor, snow mobile, 4 wheeler 0 electricity/gas once built. Gas for machines as build Wildlife Habitat loss Minimal impact Minimal impact Runoff Major Minimal 0 runoff Neighbors Very Upset. Angry Nobody knows now 0 exposure. Hidden in woods Noise 2 hours night grooming plus 100 hours make snow Minimal few complaints now from neighbors 0 except laughter Lights Every night 10-12 weeks N/A 0 except headlamps Overspray Many homes 10 — 12 weeks / Winter Minimal — 12 Weeks Few neighbors close 0 Overspray Traffic More traffic, Icy Streets No Change Minimal car traffic Cost $3,000,000 + interest $150,000 + $0 interest $150,000 + $0 interest Consultants $330,000 + $0 $0 Build Heavy construction Minimal Part machine built. Part Hand Built. Paid plus volunteers Maintenance High cost $ Low $0 Cost Free volunteers Bussing $5,000+- ?/ yr get 150 kids to Braemar Not needed, walk there Not needed. Bike there Residents $75/yr, $9/day $0 cost $0 cost Outside $75/yr, $9/day $0 cost $0 cost Usage 10 weeks 12 weeks 52 weeks All year Team 150 kids $75/yr Braemar 200 kids free Free for all residents 60+ kids free Free for all residents Residents $75/season $7/visit $0 Free to all $0 Free to all Outside $75/season $7/visit $0 Free to all $0 Free to all Infrastructure Huge impact, major construction Minimal as is now. Use city water off hydrant 0 needed. Option to add bathroom like Lebanon Hills Parks Survey 2014 Minimal interest <10% Minimal interest <10% 91% support $'s for more biking. 20% said mtn biking City Revenue Minimal. Hard to break even. Potential losses $0 Substantial. 15% at Tin Fish. Only trail head entire metro with bar and grill with deck Summary Very unpopular Very expensive Big environmental impact Big risk, little gain Very Popular Minimal Cost Where prefer to stay Small investment upgrade snow making/grooming and plastic snow options Very Popular Minimal Cost & Effort from city Very Green Bike Friendly City Zero Risk Big Return Potential The Nordic X-C Ski Plan creates a premier pay for use X-C Ski Trail at Braemar Park of approx. 3.2 kilometers by cutting a 50' wide path through an oak savanna forest on steep slopes on the east ridge, using state of the art snowmaking equipment and grooming machines that will operate for approx. 10 weeks as weather cooperates on an advanced intermediate trail with lighting every night. The East Ridge location and trail layout is considered critical to the success of the design so that cannot be changed. A different layout like surrounding the course as it does now with natural snow xc trails would not work. There are admitted consequences of noise, light, and vehicle pollution along with overspray on roads and private property. Just X-C Ski ticket sales alone does not create enough revenue to support operations, so tubing on a 25' hill is included to generate more revenue. The plan costs approx. 3 million dollars, plus 20 years interest ($ ), plus ongoing maintenance costs ($10-20,000? ), plus maybe even operational losses for 10 weeks of operation for 3.2 km of mostly advanced trail. The Compromise Plan is To Refurbish Hornet Hills so it can keep the 4-5 kilometers of trail with old style snow making that Edina High School X-C Ski Team has now for daily training, and where they prefer to stay. That they get some kind of guarantee from 3 River Rark that they will cooperate with their plowing methods on the bike path to allow x number of special crossing mats over the asphalt bike paths and a guarantee from the schools that they can keep their trail system on school property just like a football field stays there year after year. Plus they get some modest financial help towards improving their old style snow making system. The trail is free to use by anyone, anytime. The East Ridge is left in its natural state as it is now except for the constantly eroding walking trail that already follows the entire ridgeline. The existing natural snow xc skiing at Braemar is left as is. The city can create a plan to add snowmaking to that trail system or other areas of golf course but not in the woods. The Nordic X-C Team gets $150,000 to refurbish Hornet Hills and improve their old style snow making equipment as they see fit. (NOTE: Hornet Hills is the existing X-C ski trail system below the high school and Creek Valley school, and up around the water tower with old style snowmaking) The mountain biking plan is to keep the East Ridge in its natural state and carefully develop a 30" wide dirt mountain biking trail system that encompasses areas from the entire park in trying to create at minimum 5-6 miles of mtn bike trails on the East Ridge, west ridges, north swamp boardwalk and south connect plus a small skills park that encircle Braemar Park. All trails are free to use by anyone 365 days of year unless wet and muddy. Walking and snowshoe trails also part of design. The Edina Mtn Biking Community gets $150,000 to design and build at least 5-6 miles of trail that include walking and snowshoe use. A final point about the Nordic Plan, an item that nobody is talking about , and that is making a huge investment in infrastructure for a 10 week sport that depends completely on very cold winter climate and the reality of global warming. Winter is changing in Minnesota. Major rain storms in January. Early spring. Making snow is getting more and more difficult that's why they need such a sophisticated system. Minnesota is between two climates, north cold and south heat. We are feeling change the most, faster change than other parts of the country. 3 Other X-C Alternatives Explanations Move down off the ridge Either use the existing natural snow xc trail system already in place and add 70's style snow making or add or modify the trail to make it a better training facility for the X-C Ski Team. By moving off the ridge and down to areas around golf course you eliminate all the problems with neighbors dealing with noise, light, overspray and the destruction of natural habitat on the east ridge. By switching to a much simpler snow making system you dramatically cut the costs of making snow. Using a fire hydrant, fire hoses, gasoline compressors and generators, old style snow guns, a 4 wheelers and a snow mobile like the X-C Ski team does now at Hornet Hills dramatically cuts infrastructure costs. If team members each pay $70 a season x 200 kids = $14,000 for labor to help with snow making. The public uses it for free. You are not trying to make a premier winter recreation facility that you can charge money for. Instead you are creating a simple system the X-C Ski team and Edina residents can use for winter enjoyment and training. Pay your way for more access to training at Theo Wirth The high school X-C Ski Team is the key supporter of the Nordic plan. They have, like all other high school teams, limited ability to use the trails at Highland Park in Bloomington. Instead pay for more use at Theodore Wirth X-C trails that has snow making instead of making a huge investment for the city that has zero possibility of paying for it with pay for use fees. Plastic Snow Buck Hill Ski Area is opening up for year round skiing this fall by covering their main run top to bottom and two of their tubing lanes with plastic snow. See www.neveplast.com for videos on installations for downhill, X-C skiing and tubing. This eliminates any need for snow making and can be used year round. It eliminates any problems with neighbors and leaves the east ridge as is. Plus it offers a product that no one else in twin cities has that you could charge for. Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 10:59 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Winter changes Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Andy [mailto:fotness@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 10:54 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Winter changes Date: Wed, Aug3 Dear City Council members and Mayor: As A 30 year resident, outdoor enthusiast, and now grandmother of 3, I respectively request that you allow residents to speak at your public hearing on Sept. 7th re: making Braemar "snow worthy. " My daughter captained the xc ski team long ago; even then, they could have used practice space. Please allow proponents of the project, not just naysayers ,to participate in your deliberations. Thank you. Sincerely, Andy Otness 5433 Kellogg Avenue 55424 FotnessPgmail.com 612-978-1681 Sent from my iPhone Sent from my iPhone 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 11:19 AM Subject: FW: Braemar Winter Recreation area - Please table the discussion! Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoREdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Darren Ruschy [mailto:Darren.Ruschy(&aonbenfield.conn] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 11:16 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Winter Recreation area - Please table the discussion! Darren Ruschy 5509 Doncaster Way Edina, MN I implore you not to withdraw the snowmaking proposal at Braemar. Is it expensive? Yes. Will it take time to develop? Yes. Will it bring economic gain to the city over time? Yes. Will it provide winter recreation for Edina and surrounding suburb citizens? Yes. Will it adversely affect those living near Braemar? NO. The houses around Braemar are set back far enough so that there will be no or very few noise issues. Perhaps an occasional hum of a snow maker or the banter of skiers or tubers having a good time. My guess is the golfer traffic in the summer would be much more intrusive than snow enthusiasts in the winter. We have this lovely space available to us year around. Why not use it? Please consider tabling the discussion to give the snow enthusiasts time to rally support. Darren Ruschy 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 11:41 AM Subject: FW: Snow making Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.ciov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Johnson, Gary [mailto:gjohnson@apog.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 11:24 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Snow making Dear Edina City Council, As previously stated, I am an enthusiastic supporter of snow making at Braemar. It is critical that we provide on-snow opportunities for our Edina High School Nordic team and the taxpayers of Edina. Whenever a city considers a change that will move the city forward, you will inevitably have some misinformed citizens oppose the progress. I refer to them as "cavemen" (citizens against virtually everything). Please do not let a few angry voices sidetrack this important initiative. At a minimum, please postpone your decision until the September meeting to allow proponents time to respond to these complaints. Similar complaints were heard when Hyland put in snowmaking, and a reasonable compromise was reached, allowing the project to move forward, with great success. Very Truly Yours, Gary R. Johnson Apogee Enterprises, Inc. I Vice-President & Treasurer "Distinctive Solutions for Enclosing Commercial Buildings and Framing Art" 4400 West 78th Street, Suite 520 I giohnson@apog.com www.apog.com The information contained in this e-mail message and any attachments is proprietary and intended only for the confidential use of the designated recipient named above. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or an agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you have received this document in error and that any review, dissemination, distribution or copying of this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error please notify us immediately at the e-mail address listed above. Thank you. 1 Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 12:05 PM To: Edina Mail; Janet Canton Subject: FW: Braemar I think we already received this one, but just in case, here it is again. Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattrehEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Craig Bourgeault [mailto:CBourgeault(aspineoloqy.corn] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 8:55 AM To: Ann Kattreh Subject: Braemar Dear Ann Kattreh I am opposed to building a Nordic ski area at Braemar. This is a unconscionable way to spend more than $3,000,000.00 of taxpayer money, not counting environmental and ongoing maintenance costs. This is a sport with a very limited season. Even in optimal winter conditions, the season is ten weeks long. And we no longer have optimal winter conditions in Minnesota. This project will destroy the natural character of the area with destruction of vast swaths of trees and habitat to make way for the required open space for modern skate style skiing. I love cross country skiing. I love to put on my long skis and pole through the woods and across the lake. Braemar will not be that kind of skiing. A much better plan is the proposed bike trail. It will be used year round, it will consume much less of the taxpayers resources, now and in the future. There will be less destruction of habitat and trees, and less disruption of the character of the neighborhood. And it has many more potential users in the community. Please support the mountain bike trail plan for Braemar. Craig Bourgeault 6212 Halifax Ave S Edina, MN 55424 Spineology conserving Craig Bourgeault Product Manager Desk (651) 256-8515 Cell (763) 607-2577 7800 3rd Street North Suite 600 St. Paul, MN 55128 CONFIDENTIALITY NOTE: This e-mail message, including any attachment(s), contains information that may be confidential, protected by Spineology Inc. or other legal privileges, and/or proprietary non-public information. If you are not an intended recipient of this message or an authorized assistant to an intended recipient, please notify the sender by replying to this message and then delete it from your system. Use, dissemination, distribution, or reproduction of this message and/or any of its attachments (if any) by unintended recipients is not authorized and may be unlawful. 2 Janet Canton From: Sent: To: Subject: Frank Petrovic on behalf of Edina Mail Wednesday, August 03, 2016 12:09 PM Ann Swenson; jhovland@hovlandrasmus.com; Kevin Staunton; Mary Brindle (Comcast); Robert Stewart; Ann Kattreh; Janet Canton FW: Support for Winter Recreation Frank Petrovic, Customer Service Representative 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 FPetrovic@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Neal Blanchett [mailto:nealjblanchett@gmail.corn] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 11:50 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Support for Winter Recreation Forwarded message From: "Blanchett, Neal" <NBlanchettl@koreviewservices.com> Date: Aug 3, 2016 11:48 AM Subject: Support for Winter Recreation To: "nealjblanchett@gmail.com" <nealjblanchett@gmail.com> Cc: Dear Mayor, Council Members, and Staff, I'm Neal Blanchett and I'm writing this letter for my sons August and Jasper, and myself, all active skiers. We live at 4737 Hibiscus Avenue, in the Cornelia neighborhood, and are writing in support of the Winter Recreation Proposal at Braemar. This is a unique opportunity for Edina to establish itself as a city that promotes 4-season outdoor recreation, which is a key component to attract new, vibrant families and promote a great lifestyle for our entire community. The July open house spent much of the time on the potential negatives and very little time on the positives. That's cautious, but please keep in mind the abundant positives. Nordic skiing is a fast-growing sport because it's life-long, fun, a great workout (if you want it to be), social, connects us with nature and wildlife, and is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and avoid cabin fever in the winters. It combines some of the best benefits of running and hockey, and you can get all these benefits without being a super-athlete. I learned skate skiing at age 46, and I can see why 200 kids sign up for the Nordic team each year - it's healthy fun, fresh air, and winter sunshine. Look at lists of the most desirable cities in the US, and you will find that outdoor recreation is a common thread. Outdoor recreation accelerates the growth of property values. It's crucial to attract the next generation of high-skill workers and employers. I hope that Edina continues to strive to be among those highly-desirable cities. Minnetonka is hiring a consultant to re-brand itself; property values are flat in many suburbs. It's crucial to continue to grow and improve the options Edina offers, and to continue to send the message that Edina is a great place for relocation or to live all your life. A high-quality winter recreation 1 center with the long, guaranteed season that snowmaking provides sends a clear and distinctive message that Edina values 4-season family recreation. The City's done a wonderful job in upgrading parks, adding hockey, soccer, and other recreation facilities. The winter sports proposal is absolutely in keeping with this trend. I don't play hockey, soccer, or baseball, but I recognize the value of these options for my neighbors who do, and to attract new families. I support them and willingly fund them, as I hope people can for this winter recreation center. Braemar's terrain is near-perfect - a dense, mixed-hardwood forest with plenty of wildlife, views, and slopes. Ski trails co-exist happily with wildlife - at Hyland it's common to see deer, foxes, wild turkeys, hawks, eagles, owls and even coyotes on the ski trails. The trails will be a "hidden gem" showcasing Edina's natural abundance. It will create new "converts" who will use, admire, advocate for, and become stewards of Edina's parks and natural areas. Many residents are not familiar with the popularity of both mountain biking and Nordic skiing. The Nordic ski trails at Hyland are often packed after school and into the evening; there's tremendous pent-up demand just from high-school teams. Mountain biking has grown meteorically at the high-school level, and "fat biking" has exploded in popularity. These are sports we didn't have growing up, but today many thousands of people have fun doing them. I'd like to address a few of the trade-offs. The SEH presenter spent a great deal of time discussing potential snowmaking overspray. I've been going to Hyland for 10+ years, both the Nordic and Alpine ski areas, as well as the Wirth park snowmaking area, and I have never seen overspray on any roads. I have never heard of it being a problem for neighbors or neighboring roadways. While it's great to be cautious and concerned, given the tree cover, the distance, and the elevation difference between the trail and street, it seems unlikely to cause problems that can't be addressed or prevented. It might create a need for special caution on Gleason Road, which is curvy and often sees fast traffic. Gleason is a woodsy, winding, shaded road between the golf course, woods and neighborhood. Drivers should drive cautiously whether there is snowmaking or not. Drivers who drive too fast should not have veto power over an excellent recreation opportunity; conversely, we should not restrict Edina's recreation options just to allow these drivers to drive as fast as they would like on every available road. If you have to choose between fast traffic and family recreation, I hope you will choose family recreation. Similarly with respect to the noise of snowmaking, the issue becomes the fact that it is added to the existing freeway noise. We all recognize the value of freeways, but we can't let the freeway operate as a "noise veto" by saying we'll refuse to add anything to that existing noise. I hope that the noise added will be minimal, in closed-window, indoor season, at night, and steady, as opposed to an unsettling stop/start cycle. I hope it can be addressed by a cooperative snowmaking staff. The Winter Recreation proposal is a unique opportunity for Edina, as a city and as a park system, to differentiate itself from similar premier communities. Unlike most areas of the country, we're lucky to have 4 seasons and distinct winter recreation. This proposal turns winter into an asset for Edina. We urge you to support it. Thank you, 2 August Blanchett (EHS Class of 2018) Jasper Blanchett (Class of 2022) Neal Blanchett 3 Janet Canton From: Ann Kattreh Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 12:15 PM To: Edina Mail; Janet Canton Subject: FW: Building a Healthy Community through Mountain Biking Ann Kattreh, Parks & Recreation Director 952-826-0430 I Fax 952-826-0390 AKattreh@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Jack Ellingson [mailto:ellingsonjack@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 9:23 AM To: Ann Kattreh Subject: Building a Healthy Community through Mountain Biking Hello Ms Kattreh, My name is Jack Ellingson. As a senior at Edina High School, I'm one of the captains of the Edina Cycling Team. I personally know the many benefits mountain biking can bring to a community. Mountain biking can unite and strengthen the mental, physical, and social health of a community. Kids who would be bullied and harassed in school find a community where they are not only accepted, but well respected. Mountain biking can also inspire kids to peruse careers in STEM by actively engaging them with the complex mechanics found on a bicycle. These are just a few of the many benefits mountain biking will bring to Edina. By building mountain biking trails in Edina, our community could better utilize the benefits that come with cycling. If you have any questions or concerns about building trails in Edina, please email me back. Thanks, Jack Ellingson Captain of the Edina Cycling Team Leader of FIRST Robotics Team 1816 - The Green Machine Captain of the EHS Business Club 1 Janet Canton From: Sent: To: Subject: Frank Petrovic on behalf of Edina Mail Wednesday, August 03, 2016 12:30 PM Ann Kattreh; Janet Canton; Ann Swenson; jhovland@hovlandrasmus.com; Kevin Staunton; Mary Brindle (Comcast); Robert Stewart FW: keep nordic snowmaking on the table! Frank Petrovic, Customer Service Representative 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 FPetrovicEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Mark Larson [mailto:mark(arehkamplarson.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 12:23 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: keep nordic snowmaking on the table! I would like to strongly support continuing the conversation about the possibility of snowmaking in Edina. The H.S. team is large bringing a natural group of users annually for year to come and the community would love the chance to ski in Edina as well. Thanks, Mark Larson 4628 Arden Av 1111 MARK LARSON, AIA REHKAMP LARSON 2732 West 43K1 Street, Minneapolis, MN .55110 612.265-7275 refikamplarson.cont Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 1:06 PM Subject: FW: Please keep the Braemar Ski project alive. Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Leonard Bernstein [mailtodenbernstein@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 1:01 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Please keep the Braemar Ski project alive. Good afternoon. We are a family of three who moved to Edina 12 years from Southern California so that we could enjoy cross-country skiing in Minnesota. We have ran and biked in the area of Braemar Golf Course and consider adding cross-country skiing in winter to be a wonderful upgrade. We implore you to either give the project the green light in your next meeting or, at the very least, table this project for further consideration next month. Thank you. Leonard, Rhoda and Melissa Bernstein Leonard Bernstein 651.983.9088 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 1:08 PM Subject: FW: Braemar ski proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: imac6001(aaol.conn [mailto:jmac6001@aol.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 1:00 PM To: swensonann1@gmail.com; Robert Stewart; Kevin Staunton; Mary Brindle; James Hovland Subject: Braemar ski proposal I am writing again to express my concern over the Nordic plan at Braemar. I see that many are writing in favor of this idea for winter sports but notice that those people live far from the Braemar area and definitely out of the range of lights, noise and snow over spray. The danger that the over spray would put on Gleason and surrounding roads is a major concern. Many children are waiting for buses on driveways and street corners that would be covered with this over spray and present a hazard if cars would slide or lose control due to this moisture. I imagine if an accident occurred due to these conditions that the city would have a liability problem. I hope you will vote NO for this project. Sheran McNulty 6001 Bonnie Brae Drive 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 1:16 PM Subject: FW: Proposed snowmaking at Braemar Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMNIsmv From: Jay at TeeMaster [mailto:jay@teemaster.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 1:11 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Proposed snowmaking at Braemar Dear Edina City Council, I am so disappointed that the unfounded claims and ignorant complaints of a few residents and neighbors could kill the proposed winter facility at Braemar. Do not cave in to the whims of these uninformed residents who really don't understand much about this issue. I have been an avid and accomplished Nordic skier for the last 27 years training and racing all over the area. I have helped teach beginners to Nordic skiing both adults and youth. I have used all the trails throughout the Twin Cities extensively and have witnessed and experienced the development of snowmaking facilities over the last ten years. I fully understand the issues surrounding snowmaking with most complaints revolving around sound and snow drift/overspray. The same exact issues were brought up when snowmaking was proposed near the high school a few years back. Once approved the fears never panned out as the neighbors had dreaded. Again, the same complaints were brought up in Bloomington when Hyland Lake Park Reserve proposed snowmaking on the trails there. Once again the neighbor fears were completely unfounded and now Hyland has the best man-made Nordic facility in the country. And now the Edina City Council is once again getting pressure from this NIMBY group of neighbors with speculative and unsubstantiated fears and complaints about snowmaking, demanding that the proposed facility to be killed. This facility will be a huge asset to Edina and its citizens just as the ice arena, the golf course, and more recently the dome at Braemar and new fields at the high school, Braemar, Pamela and Kuhlman. By the way... Thank you for not caving into the crumb-rubber scare objections the NIMBY crowd threw at you. These assets are awesome for our kids and our community, just as this winter facility will be. Nordic skiing is a life-long activity that any able bodied person can do and gets people outside and active in the winter. The loss of the trails and snowmaking near the high school due to the construction of the nine mile trail and high school expansion, along with the Hyland facility's unreasonable restrictions on high school use for training on their snowmaking trails, essentially prevents the high school team from training together on snow for good. An Edina man- made trail system will help the high school with its most popular high school sport. So many of us Edina residents were very excited to hear that Braemar was seriously considering adding trails and snowmaking at to its property. Now we're bewildered, not only at unfounded complaints of so few, but that the City Council is actually prepared to sacrifice this great community-proposal to appease the uninformed few. Please be the grownups in the room and vote to move ahead with this winter facility and make Edina even better. 1 Sincerely, Jay Adams Edina High School Graduate 1983 Edina resident 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 1:45 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Nordic Ski Trail Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoREdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Greta Simondet [nriailto:gretasim11@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 1:40 PM To: Edina Mail Cc: jeff simondet Subject: Braemar Nordic Ski Trail Dear City Council Member, Below is a summary that I have copied and pasted, highlighted in green, and think it is a good cause for reflection and stalling the decision coming up in September. Too many times you have public input which conflicts with what you want and you ignore the input. I have heard that for every one person to comment, it represents another 100 people that don't take the time (check the research on that). I am not representing a "Not In My Backyard" stance, nor do I know anyone who lives there but I really think this is a bad idea. Please do not vote "yes" and thank you for listening to me. This endeavor would: • Destroy of hundreds of trees, wildlife will be displaced or killed off. • Plow and expand existing foot trails to create a 50-foot wide ski trail that would run approximately 2.2 kilometers long • Install snow-making machines spewing ice crystals for up to five hours nightly • Introduce noisy snow plows to "smooth out" the ice/snow during the evening hours. • Increase noise -- constant, unrelenting • Light up the area at night -- lighting would be installed along the trail — • Entail a year-long construction phase, which includes digging out a 50-foot wide path, and digging under that to install hundreds of yards of piping to supply water to snow-making machines; machinery traveling up through the Braemar ifills/forest for over a year • Lose money. The City and the proposed vendor admit that it is unlikely that capital expenditures would be recovered, and as Park & Rec representatives state, it is "hoped that the facility would break even within 5 years" • Increase your taxes • Create a public hazard. The snow-making machines would "over spray" ice crystals onto Gleason Road during the winter nights, so morning rush hour will be even more treacherous. Sincerely, Greta Simondet (and my husband Jeff Simondet agrees, ask him...952-212-7734) 1 4448 Vandervork Avenue Edina, MN 55436 952-212-7733 P.S. Just another thought, from Greta and not Jeff: If you decided to close Fred Richards because it was not profitable without giving the issue adequate public input and effort on how to change that to make it truly profitable (for example, promote a footgolf course), why would you start on a new project like this that will not be profitable for at least 5 years, and it is not even guaranteed beyond that? And will forever have the extra expense of the snowplows and snowmaking? Just doesn't make good financial sense!!! Especially with use of tax dollars. I certainly hope reputation and ego are not motivations for this--to be thinking Edina can have some new thing to brag about--that is a wrong motive. P.P.S. Peggy Erickson made some very intelligent comments about the snowmaking problems compared to Hyland Hills and I hope you look at the details of what she wrote. 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 2:40 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Winter Recreation Proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 • Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Jennifer Collins [nnailto:jenhussey7500(agmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 2:16 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Winter Recreation Proposal To Members of the Edina City Council: I am writing to voice my opposition to the proposed winter recreation project at Braemar. While the project has many negatives, the most concerning to me is the rushed timeline and initial lack of transparency. I first noticed something was up when survey markers appeared in the woods. However I was not made aware of the project proposal until I read an online article in the Star Tribune while I was on vacation. A letter about the July 13 public hearing arrived during my vacation but fortunately I returned in time to attend. I am baffled as to why the city would obtain input from the high school Nordic ski team, instead of the residents in our neighborhood who will be directly and negatively impacted, before approving a $330,000 expenditure to SEH Consulting to draw up this proposal. I am further baffled by the tight timeline and rush to push through a project that will have significant and detrimental costs to our neighborhood. There are the issues of light and noise pollution (measured in summer with foliage on the trees and before clear-cutting of a 50-foot wide path in the woods). Overspray from snowmaking is a big concern. Ice crystals will be dumped in neighbors' driveways, on roofs and decks, and coat landscaping, sidewalks and Gleason Road. Will the city be compensating those homeowners for additional snow/ice removal costs? There will be a huge environmental impact. I find it ironic that the golf course has just installed signs touting the restoration of Braemar's landscape while proposing to hack a 50-foot wide trail through the East ridge. Lastly is the cost to taxpayers. $3,000,000 is a lot of money for something the majority of residents in Edina have not asked for. This is not in the city's long-term plan nor has it been budgeted for. I respectfully ask that you vote down this proposal. If there is city-wide support for snow making or other winter recreation activities at Braemar we need to take the time to do it right. Thank you, Jennifer Collins 7500 Hyde Park Drive 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 2:52 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Nordic Proposal Attachments: Braemar.docx; Bedroom view of skiers jpg Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Martin, Dawn [mailto:Dawn.Martin@biworldwide.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 2:42 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Nordic Proposal Hello - My name is Dawn Martin, and I have been on the Edina Soccer Club Board for the past 7 years. I have acted as President for the past 3 years. During this time, I have witnessed first hand the thoughtful and caring way the Park Board and City Council have approached projects. There was a reason it took almost 12 years to find an appropriate place to build the Braemar Sports Dome (or as I like to refer to it, the Braemar Soccer Dome!). And the reason was that you all listened to your constituency. As much as we all wanted the Dome, you refused to put it in a place that would affect the quality of life for the residents. No one wanted to look at it from their bedroom window, nor have the traffic, so you kept working until you found the perfect place at Braemar. And that was the right thing to do. I hope you will take the same thoughtful approach with the Nordic proposal, and slow down to look at what is best for all of Edina. Clearly, I am a huge advocate of sports in Edina. And with the condition of the current Nordic team practice space, I totally approve finding a solution for them. I just don't want that solution to destroy the quality of life for my neighbors, nor my family. I live at 7714 Tanglewood Court. Moved here from New York City 24 years ago, and bought this house in Edina because of it's proximity to nature views and wildlife. I work on Bush Lake Road in Edina at BI WORLDWIDE, a $650MM company that started here 65 years ago. I am extremely proud of our City. Please consider the two attachments — one is your published map for the project. The legend indicates "blue" as privately owned property. That translates to "homes." I have indicated which one is mine. The map is deceptive, as the ridge where the 50' wide trail would be installed is only about 75' from the side of my house. I have also attached a photo that I took from my master bedroom window last night. The red line indicates the top of the ridge where that trail would be. Clearly, we would have lights streaming into our living and sleeping areas, and the noise would be deafening. The sound meter that your study was based on was situated on my property for 3 days. That weekend we had a water main break, and the crews were there jackhammering the street nonstop. All the neighbors mowed their lawns. Traffic on 494 and 169 was loud. We are also in a direct takeoff path from the airport, so airplane noise is bad. Plus, it was summer. In the winter, it is much, much quieter. The presenter at the July 13 meeting said the sound from the snow making machines would be louder than what they measured, but "not bad." So under this proposal we have less trees, greenery, wildlife (we've actually named the flock of wild turkeys that live in the woods on the side of our house). We have lights at night that will keep us awake. We have skiers literally able to look into our bedroom windows. We have noise from the snow blowers and mashers. We have declining property values. Declining quality of life. But frankly, I'm most concerned about the ice falloff. The presenter on July 13 said, "you'll just shovel the ice pellets like you do the snow." Most of us don't shovel our own snow — we have snow removal services. They will not shovel ice. So how does this get done? What will the ice do to my shake roof? What happens if my 4 year old grandson slips and hits his head on the sidewalk? And forget about me, what happens when a high school student drives around one of the S curves on Gleason Road and spins out? God forbid there are kids waiting for the school bus. Let's pray that no one gets hurt, but let's also pray that there are no lawsuits against the City. That would be devastating. So clearly there are a lot of things to consider. Let's work together to make this work for everyone. We can do it — we've done it before with the Dome. Please slow this down and think this through. And thanks for all you do. Sincerely, Dawn DAWN MARTIN Vice President I Meetings & Shows d 952.844.4819 I m 612.964.8989 Bl WORLDWIDE Australia I Canada I China I India I LATAM I UK I US www.biworldwide.com Check out our multiple award winning video on social issues at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xfNnkUFdBM Please consider the environment before printing. This e-mail message is being sent solely for use by the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by phone or reply by e-mail, delete the original message and destroy all copies. Thank you. 2 Legend Pnmary Cross Country St nignment • Manatee I Cross Country Ski iggnment ▪ AtIcmaive 2 Goss Country Ski fggnment Ttbe LA Crass Country Ski Alignment Turnaround Tubing Aron Prnra O•nad Property Our House Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 3:30 PM Subject: FW: Keep Braemar Green and Safe Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov www.EdinaMN.gov From: Stephanie Freudenthal [mailto:nillydog(ame.com] Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2016 3:21 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Keep Braemar Green and Safe Dear Mayor Hovland and City Council Members, Please stop the Nordic Ski Trail project. I am against this proposal as it stands today. It is too expensive, unneeded, unwanted, dangerous for nearby residents, and a noise and light pollutant. Please, pause and rethink. Let's enhance Braemar in a SENSIBLE way to allow skiing but not with the total decimation of nature, with the nuisances of pollution, noise and light. I understand there are residents who enjoy cross-country skiing, however perhaps not as much if it was in their own back yards I don't oppose enhancing Braemar to improve the skiing aspect. It just cannot be in this manner. Thank you, Stephanie Freudenthal 6912 Mark Terrace Drive 1 City Council Updates By Scott Neal July 19, 2016 • Approved a $31,900 contract with Bituminous Roadways for improvements to the Creek Valley parking lot. • Awarded a $5.3 million contract to Mid-America Golf and Landscape to rebuild Braemar Golf Course. The contract award also includes the construction of walking trails and bocce ball courts. • Approved the waiver of city building and development permit fees for the Braemar Golf Course, Creek Valley sun shelter and Arneson Acres greenhouse projects. The total amount of waived fees is estimated to be $56,757. • City Council directed staff to utilize a request for proposal process to select a master plan consultant for Fred Richards Park. • The award of the golf course renovation contract for Braemar represents the culmination of 36 months of hard work, thoughtful analysis and many difficult discussions. The Braemar course renovation is part of a larger strategy to revive our golf enterprise by reducing its scope (i.e. – closure of the Fred Richards course) and improving our facilities. The combination of golf course architect and golf course construction contractor for our project gives me optimism that we are going to achieve our strategic goals for our golf enterprise – and, more importantly, that Edina residents and guests are going to have a great time playing on our new course. August 3, 2016 • Approved the purchase of the Rosland Park Playground Replacement. Janet Canton From: Frank Petrovic Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 1:23 PM To: Janet Canton; jhovland@hovlandrasmus.com Subject: FW: Proposed Braemar Winter Sports Facility Frank Petrovic, Customer Service Representative 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 FPetrovicEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Dick/Bernie Letsche [mailto:rbletsche(acomcast.net] Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 12:59 PM To: akettreWEdinaMN.gov Cc: James Hovland; Mary Brindle; Kevin Staunton; Robert Stewart; swensonann1(@gmail.com Subject: Proposed Braemar Winter Sports Facility To: Ms Ann Kattreh, Edina Parks and Recreation Director Copy: Edina City Council Members From the July 13 informational meeting, I know you are aware of many of the concerns of Edina residents about the proposed Braemar winter sports project. However, I want to be sure you are aware of those residents' concerns who live close to the proposed project. While the economic and environmental aspects of the project are not favorable to Edina residents, other major negatives which impact those residents living close to the proposed project are: . Intrusion of skiers so close to some residents' homes that they can look into the windows of the homes. . Night-time noise from the ski making equipment and snow cats. . Night-lighting that will be annoying to many residents. . Snow/ice over spray onto Gleason Road and residents' driveways and sidewalks. This is a major issue, and it will be costly for frequent removal to mitigate the danger from accidents and injuries, and the potential financial liability to the City could be significant. I expect residents will expect the City to remove, or pay for the removal, of the snow/ice over spray from their driveways and sidewalks. . Residents close to the facility believe the value of their homes will be negatively impacted. How will the City deal with this? These are significant issues, in addition to the general economic and environmental ones. It appears that the project has been pushed forward before all the due diligence has been completed. My belief is that a small percentage of Edina residents would be in favor of this project, if 1 they were fully aware of all its aspects; and that it has been pushed by a minority of special interest people, few if any who live near the proposed project. It took considerably longer to decide about the Fred Richards complex (has it been decided yet what will be done there?), the redo of the Braemar golf complex and other Edina facilities; so why the hurry with the proposed Braemar winter sports project? The project as proposed should not proceed. Additional study should be done, and perhaps less intrusive and less costly solutions would be viable; in addition to working with other governmental agencies to improve/expand cross-country facilities at Hylland Recreation Area and perhaps other locations in the area. Please share this with other Park Board Members, and any of you please contact me if you would like to discuss these matters. Thank you, Richard Letsche 7435 Hyde Park Lane Edina, MN 55439 952-944-2464 rbletsche©comcast. net 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 2:15 PM Subject: FW: Opposition Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoPEdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Xiaoxi Zhao [mailto:streamz@gmail.corn] Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 2:00 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Opposition Dear Edina City Council, I am an Edina residence. I strongly oppose the decimation of natural forestry and wildlife at Braemar golf course using tax payers' money. I do not support this endeavor as it injures precious green space, will create a public hazard due to snow-making machines, and is stated to be an expensive yet losing proposition financially. It only benefit a very Small portion of residents and harmful to most people. I ASK YOU TO VOTE NO ON THIS PROJECT. I ask that you consider more environmentally friendly (and less costly) ways to enhance Braemar for public use: mountain biking trails, hiking, etc. Please redirect this funding to other, higher-priority level projects that improve (not diminish) public safety, or which impose no such damaging impacts on the environment or residents. Thank you! Respectfully, Brad and Xiaoxi Jannsen Sent from my iPhone 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 2:29 PM Subject: FW: Edina City Council Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 1 Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Xiaoxi Zhao [mailto:xzhao25@gnnail.corn] Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 2:02 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Edina City Council Dear Mayor Hovland, We are Edina residences. We strongly oppose the decimation of natural forestry and wildlife at Braemar golf course using tax payers' money. We do not support this endeavor as it injures precious green space, will create a public hazard due to snow-making machines, and is stated to be an expensive yet losing proposition financially. It only benefit a very Small portion of residents and harmful to most people. I ASK YOU TO VOTE NO ON THIS PROJECT. I ask that you consider more environmentally friendly (and less costly) ways to enhance Braemar for public use: mountain biking trails, hiking, etc. Please redirect this funding to other, higher-priority level projects that improve (not diminish) public safety, or which impose no such damaging impacts on the environment or residents. Thank you! Respectfully, Brad and Xiaoxi Jannsen Sent from my iPhone Sent from my iPhone 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 3:34 PM Subject: FW: Developement of Braemar Park: Nordic Ski Track Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Jane Mosher [mailto:janemosher(ayahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 2:55 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Developement of Braemar Park: Nordic Ski Track Hello, Recently the potential plan to develop a ski track at Braemar, has come to my attention. I feel the need to object to the plan presented in a mailing my husband and I received. The way the idea was presented appears to be pretty bright, noisy, and commercial. We favor development at Braemar to make it a more year round facility. We frequently walk there, have cross country skied there, dined in the Tin Fish Restaurant there, and have attended some very fun events in that location. We live within blocks and feel Braemar is a wonderful facility and that it should have year round use to be most productive. A big part of our objection is also the high cost that would not be recovered any time soon, and would require raising our taxes. More thought needs to go into this so that anything done would be less invasive and raise enough financially to make it viable as a good decision. My husband and my hope is to have more ideas presented that could increase use of this area without the burden of ruining the lovely nature aspect, as well as having a way to pay for itself in the short teiiii. We would also like to see more public events for the family since it is located in a setting with many homes surrounding it. Right now our vote on this particular use mentioned is NO from both of us. Thank you for your careful consideration, Jane and Don Mosher 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 3:35 PM Subject: FW: Nordic Skiing Project Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Pat Downey [mailto:psdowney(agnnail.corn] Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 2:58 PM To: To: swensonannl; Robert Stewart; Kevin Staunton; Mary Brindle; James Hovland Subject: Nordic Skiing Project Dear Council Members, My spouse and I are very concerned about the current Nordic skiing plans to develop the wooded areas and hills of Braemar Park. The impact on the nearby residential area with lights, motorized equipment and the loss of trees and wildlife would all be negative. The overspray from the ice making machines on to the surrounding streets including the busy and shady Gleason Road will result in a significant number of serious vehicular and pedestrian accidents - the resultant substantial cost to private citizens and the City should be factored into the cost of the project. On the demand side we understand that the demand projections for use of the new facilities from the projects consultants are at best "soft". Wow, is that a bright flashing red light in terms of approving the project and its $3,000,000 likely to go up capital cost. Currently in the winter many Edina kids use the hills in their current form to slide - all at no cost and no disruption to the neighborhood. There may very well be more demand for this infoiiiial and fun kid activity than from the relatively few kids on the Nordic ski team who can use existing nearby facilities to hone their skills. We would urge the City Council to vote NO to this project in its current state. Let's either leave the area in its existing attractive open state or at least take a lot more time to develop a plan that is more sensitive to the environment, public safety, our pocket book, the neighborhood and that is something the community wants and needs. In closing we thank Mayor Hovland for taking the time to come out last Monday evening to hear the very real concerns of neighborhood residents. Sincerely, Susan and Pat Downey 7501 Hyde Park Drive Minneapolis, MN 55439-1744 psdowney@gmail. corn 1 952 941 4877 612 310 5870 cell 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Friday, August 05, 2016 8:26 AM Subject: FW: Braemar project Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Jon [mailto:inewberryltwcomcast.net] Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2016 8:04 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar project Weighing in due to ridiculous paranoia and misleading hate mail from some. Like the idea of the ski/tubing area and options to better use the space. Don't appreciate the Armageddon slinging locals who are not willing to even discuss it. Do, think we need to evaluate options and costs. Do not like those who think the rest of the world needs to subsidize their personal park land. If they love it that much sell it to them and reduce the rest of our taxes, if not then find a suitable public use/ good for it. Sent from my iPad Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Friday, August 05, 2016 3:28 PM Subject: FW: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Wendy McNulty [mailto:w mcnulty(ayahoo.com] Sent: Friday, August 05, 2016 3:09 PM To: Mary Brindle; James Hovland; Kevin Staunton; Robert Stewart; swensonannl@gmail.com; Ann Kattreh Subject: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal Dear City Council Members: I have many concerns about the Braemar Nordic Ski Project. Other than the obvious concerns (noise, pollution, hazardous conditions from overspray, loss of wildlife, loss of trees, decrease of property value, etc.) I am very unclear about the intent of this project. My family and I have been hearing - through multiple sources - this will be a "Legacy" project for retiring city council member Ann Swenson. Is this true? If so, why??? Why would 3 million + tax dollars be used on a pet project of a city council member - a project that would benefit few, and negatively affect many? I look forward to hearing from the city council members on this matter. Please vote NO. Sincerely, Wendy McNulty 6001 Bonnie Brae Dr. Edina MN 55439 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Friday, August 05, 2016 3:28 PM Subject: FW: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Kelly McNulty [mailto:33kellyjOgmail.conn] Sent: Friday, August 05, 2016 3:16 PM To: Mary Brindle; James Hovland; Kevin Staunton; Robert Stewart; swensonann1@igmail.com; Ann Kattreh Subject: Re: Vote NO on Braemar Nordic Ski proposal Dear City Council Members: Please vote NO on the Braemar Nordic Ski Project. My family, neighbors, and friends all have serious concerns around the project as it currently stands. While we greatly appreciate and value winter sports here in Minnesota, our concern is the approach here is hasty and is not being given the proper time, review, and attention to build out a ski environment that works not only for the skiing community, but for the wildlife, nature, residents, and health and well being of the Edina community. Again, the thought of a skiing space dedicated to the Nordic group is an idea worthy of consideration, but not at the detriment of those animals and people whose lives will be immediately and negatively impacted by a hasty decision and implementation. Please vote NO. Sincerely, Kelly McNulty 6001 Bonnie Brae Dr. Edina MN 55439 On Fri, Aug 5, 2016 at 3:09 PM, Wendy McNulty <w mcnulty@yahoo.com> wrote: Dear City Council Members: I have many concerns about the Braemar Nordic Ski Project. Other than the obvious concerns (noise, pollution, hazardous conditions from overspray, loss of wildlife, loss of trees, decrease of property value, etc.) I am very unclear about the intent of this project. My family and I have been hearing - through multiple sources - this will be a "Legacy" project for retiring city council member Ann Swenson. Is this true? If so, why??? Why would 3 million + tax dollars be used on a pet project of a city council member - a project that would benefit few, and negatively affect many? I look forward to hearing from the city council members on this matter. Please vote NO. Sincerely, Wendy McNulty 1 6001 Bonnie Brae Dr. Edina MN 55439 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of James Hovland Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 8:27 AM Subject: FW: Native Restoration Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: imac6001Paol.com [mailto:jmac6001@aol.corn] Sent: Saturday, August 06, 2016 3:08 PM To: swensonannl@gmail.com; Robert Stewart; Kevin Staunton; Mary Brindle; James Hovland Subject: Fwd: Native Restoration I received this from Braemar about the wonderful wild life and native plants that everyone can enjoy on the new Academy course. These are the same plants and wildlife that exist on the area that would be destroyed if the entire Nordic Ski program is implemented. Sheran McNulty Original Message From: Braemar Golf Course <BraemarGolfteeitupmail.com> To: jmac6001 <imac6001aol.com> Sent: Fri, Aug 5, 2016 9:53 am Subject: Native Restoration CI 7 Braemar Golf Course 6364 John I Iarris Dr I Edina, MN 55439 952-903-5750 Unsubscribe From Our Mailings This message was intended for imac6001Raol.com. If you do not want to receive email messages from Brae.rnar Golf Course in the future please use the tinsubscribe link above to remove yourself. For details regarding our email policies, or if you are hsvino trouble rillsubsctibing, please contact us I rough email at: BraemarGolfedinamn.gov. by phone ai: 952-903-5750, or by mail at: 6364 John Harris Dr I Edina, MN 55439. Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 8:30 AM Subject: FW: Proposed Nordic skiing trail Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: Ann Satterthwaite [mailto:tonvannsatter@comcast.net] Sent: Saturday, August 06, 2016 9:29 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Proposed Nordic skiing trail Dear Mayor and City Counselors, I would like to add my voice in urging you to reconsider the Nordic skiing trail as proposed. I have concerns about the proposed use of snow blowing/grooming equipment in particular. From my house I have to use black out blinds to block the lights from Highlands ski area, which is quite far away. Whether I am affected by the proposed grooming equipment for the Nordic trail or not, I know my SW Edina neighbors will be. The equipment is also very loud. We have a rental ski house in Breckenridge, CO and when we are there we are woken nightly by the grooming equipment across the valley. It does not seem appropriate to have that type of equipment in a residential area. If there are to be improved Nordic Trails through Braemar, I urge you to keep the natural feel of the area intact by allowing nature to determine the amount of snow on the trails. Yours, Ann Satterthwaite 7109 Lanham Lane Edina, MN. 55439 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 8:35 AM Subject: FW: Nordic ski track Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.ciov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Alex Peters [nnailto:peters.alexftgmail.com] Sent: Saturday, August 06, 2016 10:03 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Nordic ski track As someone who lives close to the planned site for the Nordic ski expansion, we do NOT support the current plan going for a vote on September 7th. Gleason Rd has no outlets, and traffic would be backed up - this is not like Hyland Hills where the ski area is the end of the road. The noise would be unacceptable - this is in the heart of a residential neighborhood. And really - how large is the Nordic skiing need here? Why are we making an entire and established neighborhood cater to the needs of frankly, a very small, almost exclusively adult (male) sporting population? That makes no sense at ALL. Sacrificing the many for the few is not customary for a reason in both life and in business - because it doesnt make sense. Please vote NO for the planned expansion of Braemar Golf Course to install the Nordic track; kids (and I have 4) can go to Theodore Wirth of French Park for tubing. Alex Peters 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 8:36 AM Subject: FW: Concenrs against Braemar Ski Track Proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Debasish Mallick [mailto:debasish mallick@yahoo.com] Sent: Saturday, August 06, 2016 12:52 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Concenrs against Braemar Ski Track Proposal Dear Members of The Council: I am writing to voice my concerns against the proposed ski track project near the Braemer golf course. After studying the proposal carefully, I do not think benefit of this project exceeds the tangible and intangible costs of this project to the taxpayers. I, therefore, request you to vote against this proposal benefit of the community and for the environment. Regards Debasish & Anita Mallick Resident of: 5709 Kemrich Drive, Edina, MN 55439 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 8:40 AM Subject: FW: Please vote NO to the current Nordic Ski Park plan (in Braemar Golf Course) Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno(aEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.aov From: Wufei Zhang [mailto:wzhang5@gmail.com] Sent: Saturday, August 06, 2016 2:42 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Please vote NO to the current Nordic Ski Park plan (in Braemar Golf Course) Dear Edina City Council, Thank you for reading my letter! I just heard that there is a proposal for a "Winter Park" in Braemar Golf Course. After reviewing the details of the proposal from SEH, I strongly oppose this plan because of the decimation of natural forestry and wildlife at Braemar Golf Course to simply construct a very advanced Nordic X-country ski trail for a very limited group of people. There is a snow-tubing area for more general public, but the majority is for a 3-mile long 50' wide advanced X-country ski trail on the hill, and I believe majority of the expense is related to that. I do not support this endeavor as it injures precious green space, will create a public hazard due to snow- making machines, and is stated to be an expensive yet losing proposition financially. I WOULD LIKE TO URGE YOU TO VOTE NO ON THIS PROJECT. I ask that please consider more environmentally friendly (and less costly) ways to enhance Braemar for public use: mountain biking trails, hiking, etc. Please redirect this funding to other, higher-priority level projects that improve (not diminish) public safety, or which impose no such damaging impacts on the environment or residents. People are talking about "Braemar Native Restoration". Why should we destroy the last natural reserve in Edina? I have talked to quite some people, most of them not living in Braemar area, and only one person is very for it, and he has a kid in Nordic club. Most of the rest are strongly against, and a few ski- lovers thought the park would be nice, but they also agree that there are better options for the use of the funds that could benefit much larger group, given the Hyland park is just minutes away. 1 The snow-spill will definitely also create a very dangerous situation, especially for our kids. The Gleason road will be extremely slippery, and imagine our kids walking on that road to wait for the school bus in the winter. There are several school buses driving on Gleason. Thank you! Wufei Zhang 2 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 8:41 AM Subject: FW: cross country ski trail 1 \ Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoAEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Sampsell, Margie and John [mailto:margieandjohnsampsell@edinarealty.com] Sent: Saturday, August 06, 2016 3:16 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Re: cross country ski trail Council members- We are lifetime Edina residents and also realtors and are writing in opposition to the Braemar X-c ski trail. WE feel that Hyland Hills Ski Area- and surrounding cross country trails are very close to Edina and we certainly do not have to waste money to duplicate a very good existing facility on our border. Cutting down trees is not what we want done with the Braemar area. This does not seem like a wise expenditure of dollars - to benefit a small group - the cost is prohibitive based on the access we already have. This project should certainly not be fast tracked but should be considered fully with public input - who is paying for this project but all homeowners. Please reconsider this proposal and think through the costs and negative impact on the Braemar area. Wievlie awe Poita S'ativadell MARGIE DIRECT - 952-927-1195 / CELL 612-701-6081 JOHN DIRECT - 952-927-2861 / CELL 612-598-6081 Secure Fax 1-866-519-4497 Edina Realty, Inc. 6800 France Avenue South - Suite 230 Edina, MN 55435 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 8:43 AM Subject: FW: Vote no for brakeman cross country ski trails Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov Original Message From: mary everett [mailto:meverett1203@icloud.com] Sent: Saturday, August 06, 2016 3:56 PM To: Edina Mail Subject: Vote no for brakeman cross country ski trails This sounds an awful lot like the bike lanes on Wooddale where a small minority wanted something, pushes it through without the public knowing about it or discussing it. When you're spending 48,000 people's tax dollars it would be nice to consider more than the Edina high school team and their needs. I vote no, I hope you're will too Sent from my iPhone 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 8:54 AM Subject: FW: Please vote NO to the Nordic Ski Park plan (in Braemar Golf Course) Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Ge Zhiguo [mailto:yutaige@gnnail.com] Sent: Sunday, August 07, 2016 9:33 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Please vote NO to the Nordic Ski Park plan (in Braemar Golf Course) Dear Sir or Madam in Edina City Council, First thank you for reading my email. I learned about such a plan some time ago and am concerned about the effects it may have on our house. Our house, as many in our community, will be directly exposed to the increased potential of snow spill, loss of privacy and increased risk level of criminal activities. I am also concerned about the woods, plants, animals that have been living there happily for a long time, which will be unavoidably damaged as a result of such a process. As a loyal tax payer living in the City of Edina, I strongly urge you to vote no to such a plan for the good and safety of people living here. Thank you, Joey 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 9:03 AM Subject: FW: Nordic Ski Project - Braemar Park Attachments: BRAEMAR WOODS.doc Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 IbiunnoEdinaMN.qov I www.EdinaMN.qov From: Bob Robertson [mailto:bob7623Paol.corn] Sent: Sunday, August 07, 2016 3:59 PM To: Edina Mail; Mary Brindle Subject: Nordic Ski Project - Braemar Park First, let me thank you all of you on the City Council for your hard work and efforts on this proposed project, as well as all of the initiatives upon which you work to make Edina the wonderful city that it is. I, as I know you are too, am very proud of our town. A major part of what makes Edina standout in Minnesota, as well as the country, is people like you who work the processes for our community. My pride in our town is what prompts this email. Attached is a concise report regarding the Braemar Park Nordic Ski project. It highlights the arguments for and against the project. It includes all of the thought and comments that I have received from friends, neighbors, and ski enthusiasts, and of course thoughts of my own. Please feel free to share this report with all, and especially those who are advocates for the construction of the project. I really believe that the people of Edina, given all of the facts, would not pursue a project for their own pleasure when it harms and causes pain to so many others. I am thankful to have your committee and the process to ensure the best possible outcomes for Edina residents. Bob Robertson 7623 Gleason Road Edina bob7623aol.com 952-829-0091 1 BRAEMAR WOODS ANALYSIS OF PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION BRAEMAR WOODS NORDIC SKI FACILITY August 3, 2016 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The conversion of Braemar woods to a nordic ski facilty will provide a challenging nordic ski facility to a small number of high performance atheletes who feel not challenged by the flatter surfaced nordic sking currently available at Braemar park. Such a facility would improve the convenience and availability of a challenging course which is already being provided for now by Highland Park, ten minutes away. However this benefit is outweighed by the loss of safety, high costs, and significant pain and suffering caused to many Edina residents. Including the following: • Loss of safety due to snow machine fall out • Increase in traffic • Financial costs • Taxes will be levied on all edina residents • Fees will be required and charged for snow tubing which is currently free • Noise and light pollution — loss of the peace and happiness • Property devaluation will occur of homes in those neighborhoods suffered by the loss of the Braemar forest and wildlife sanctuary • The financial, quality of life and risk of safety would be carried and suffered by many for the benefit of a small special interest group of high-performance nordic skiers. The vast majority of those who would bear the burden would not be nordic skiers and would receive no benefit — only harm BRAEMAR WOODS TODAY: Braemar woods is one of the last stand of natural forest and animal habitat in Edina. A wonderful asset provided by nature and available to all of the citizens of Edina. It is home to a wide variety trees and provides a home to many species of birds and animals includes owls, an eagle, deer, turkey, and fox, as well as many more of smaller size. There is a hiking trail which winds itself around and over the crest of its prominent hill. Currently, people of all ages hike this trail for exercise and for the peace and comfort that is brought with a return to nature and the escape from urban life. To hike the trail, to stand in woods, is a visit to the world as god made it. In addition to the year round hiking, snow tubing is enjoyed on one of Braemar's hills. And the woods of Braemar are right here in Edina. No need to go to the Boundary Waters. No need to go to the cabin in the North. And it is here for all to enjoy. PROPOSED NORDIC SKI PROJECT: The purpose for constructing a nordic ski trail is to provide a more challenging nordic ski facility for advanced and competitive skiers. Braemar park currently provides cross country nordic skiing, however the current trails are on flat land that does not offer a desired challenge to the more atheltic and capable skiers. Changeling facilities such as these located in Highland Park (10 minutes away), Buck Hill and other locations are busy. Moreover, it is noted the length of the ski season is limited to the time in which the required amount of natural snow is available. Advocates have argued that the proposed construction of the hills of Baemar woods would provide a more convenient changeling ski experience, and snow making capabilities would extend the season. ANALYSIS OF ISSUES: SAFETY: As evidenced by Highland Park, fallout from the snow making equipment will line the adjacent street of Gleason Road, sidewalks, lawns, and driveways. Gleason road is already hazardous on snow days. It is a through street which attracts cut through traffic. Traffic funnels in from routes 494, 169 and 62. Much of the traffic is from out of the neighborhood. All of this encourages a less regard for speed that is appropriate for a residential family neighborhood. The challenges provided to motorists by the progressive curves on Gleason Road across from Braemar, woods on snow days, is well known. Un-alert drivers have faced 180 degree spin outs, crash against the rock wall, wind up on the boulevard or house lawn, and take out mail boxes. Fall out from the snow machines will extend the snow season and increase the hazards to safety. TRAFFIC : It was estimated that the construction of the ski trail would increase the traffic by 30-40%. Much of this traffic will be out-of-neighborhood, out-of-Edina traffic, and less mindful of safety in the neighborhood. The risk to safety will increase proportionately to the volume of traffic. FINANCIAL COSTS - TAXES AND FEES: The proposed construction is very expensive, running into the millions of dollars. The proposal calls for the costs to be paid for by taxes and fees for snow tubing. All Edina residents will be taxed. A few high performance skiers will benefit. Snow tubers, which do so now free, will be charged the proposed $9 to help pay for the skiers. NOISE AND LIGHT POLLUTION - LOSS OF THE PEACE: The proposed lights and the snow machines, along with power and water pump equipment, will line the entire crest of Braemar. The proposed trail itself is more like a two lane highway, than a trail. This is not a small project. It is major contstruction. The lights will go on every evening at dark. The noise will be driven from many machines and will commence from the beginning of sub-32 degree weather until it melts. At first to create the snow, and then to maintain it. The lights and the noise will be there everyday, every week, every month, including holidays and weekends. The leafless tress will offer virtually zero buffer. The noise and light will fall upon all who are within earshot and eyesight. One of the presenters suggested that nearby homes should close their drapes PROPERTY DEVALUATION: In addition to extra taxes, the homes in the Braemar and Dewey hill and other affected neighborhoods will suffer a decrease in property values. SKIING FACILITIES: A wide variety of skiing facilities are already conveniently located in the area. LOSS OF BRAEMAR WOODS - FOREST AND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY: Edina will lose, or at least greatly degrade, this wonderful sanctuary of nature. Thousands of trees will be removed. Power and lighting equipment, water pumps and snow machines will be installed. A virtual two lane highway will be cut through the crest. Wildlife will be endangered and lost Braemar woods, an Edina asset and sanctuary forest for nature, man and wildlife, will be lost. 08/01/16 Ms. Ann Katreh Director of Parks & Recreation Edina City Hall 4801 W. 50th St. Edina, MN 55424 Re: Winter Recreation Area at Braemar Park Dear Ann: Please consider constructing lighted platform/paddle tennis courts at Braemar. I have discussed this concept with a number of neighbors and friends, and virtually everyone agreed that it would be an incredible amenity for all ages as a fun and healthy winter activity that could be enjoyed any time of the day — morning, afternoon, evening. We envisioned forming a city rec league with age/skill divisions, and also grabbing a drink and food at Tin Fish before or after playing. And if there was a clubhouse/warming hut adjacent or connected to the courts, Tin Fish could cater reserved events and corporate events. If you've ever been to a group paddle tennis event in the winter at Minikanda Club, for example, you will know that even for those not interested in playing, it is nice to be able to watch and socialize in the wauning hut or out on the viewing decks. I will say that if such a facility existed at Braemar, I know at least 20 of my old washed- up hockey friends would be interested in playing in a winter paddle tennis doubles league. Thank you. Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 2:17 PM Subject: FW: Braemar Park Trails and Natural Habitat Regeneration; Winter Recreation Proposal Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Michael R. Cashman [mailto:MCashman@hjlawfirm.com] Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 1:42 PM To: Michael R. Cashman; Edina Mail Subject: RE: Braemar Park Trails and Natural Habitat Regeneration; Winter Recreation Proposal Hi, Please send this short supplement to the distribution list below. I have quickly scanned the SEH Feasibility Study for the xc and tubing proposal. Appendix H, Opinion of Probable Cost Spreadsheet, Items 4 (Clearing and Grubbing), 10 (Permanent Seeding) and 12 (Temporary Seeding), states that the eradication of invasive species and re-seeding would be no more than $7,700 an acre. This, apparently, is based on hand removal, the most expensive method of eradication. Although eradication could be accomplished much more cheaply through forestry mowing and controlled burns, the SHE study verifies that the cost of the invasive species eradication recommended by Bar Engineering is modest — and certainly modest in comparison to the amounts being considered for the xc and tubing proposal. Thank you. Kindly distribute this email to the following group. DISTRIBUTION City Council Park Board Director Park Board City Manager City Environmental Engineer FROM Michael R. Cashman 5820 Vernon Lane Edina, MN 55436 1 Janet Canton From: Lynette Biunno on behalf of Edina Mail Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 1:30 PM To: Scott H. Neal; Ross Bintner Subject: FW: Braemar Park Trails and Natural Habitat Regeneration; Winter Recreation Proposal Attachments: Ex. 1 - 2015 Barr Engineering Braemar Park NRIS.PDF; Ex. 2 - 1992 ACOE Mitigation and Conservation Permit.pdf; Ex. 3 - 1992 Barr Engineering Oak Savannah Restoration & Management Plan....pdf; Ex. 4 - 2016 Braemar Park Takings.pdf; Ex. 5 - 2006 Edina Needs Assessment.pdf; Ex. 6 - 2014 Edina Needs Assessment.pdf Good morning, This email has been forwarded to the Mayor and Council members, Scott Neal, Ann Kattreh and Ross Bintner. Lynette Biunno, Receptionist 0 952-927-8861 I Fax 952-826-0389 Ibiunno@EdinaMN.gov I www.EdinaMN.gov From: Michael R. Cashman [mailto:MCashnnan@hjlawfirm.com] Sent: Monday, August 08, 2016 11:57 AM To: Edina Mail Subject: Braemar Park Trails and Natural Habitat Regeneration; Winter Recreation Proposal Kindly distribute this email to the following group. DISTRIBUTION City Council Park Board Director Park Board City Manager City Environmental Engineer FROM Michael R. Cashman 5820 Vernon Lane Edina, MN 55436 michaelrcashman@gmail.com 612-619-2783 I am writing to supplement prior correspondence on these topics based on new or additional information that has been provided. In short, the additional information I have been provided strongly supports the eradication of invasive species, the development of a circuit trail around, and regeneration of several varied natural habitats throughout all of Braemar Park, boundary to boundary, and not just in that section being abandoned by the golf course. Most of these proposals were previously recommended by Barr Engineering. Some were required as a condition to obtaining permission to build the Clunie Nine in 1992, and are long overdue. All are clearly in line with the highest park facility priorities identified by Edina residents. These actions should be a priority, and not deferred any longer. The Oak Savannah restoration mandated by the Army Corps of Engineers has already been deferred for 25 years. The park facility priorities identified by Edina citizens, environmental concerns and need for the regeneration and creation of natural habitats in Edina generally and Braemar Park specifically also lead to the conclusion that the proposal to spend $3 million for man-made snow xc ski and tubing facility should not be pursued. The allocation of a much more modest sum could accomplish clear community desires for environmentally important walking, biking, and nature trails and habitat park facilities. Exhibits are attached, but screenshots of the most pertinent information from most of them are included in this email for your convenience. Thank you for your consideration. INTRODUCTION In 2006 a Community Needs Assessment Survey was conducted "to establish priorities for the future development of parks and recreation facilities, programs and services within the community." The top two facility NEEDS were (1) walking and biking trails, and (2) natural areas and wildlife habitats. The two MOST IMPORTANT facilities were (1) walking and biking trails, and (2) natural areas and wildlife habitats. XC ski trails did not make either list. Neither did snow tubing. XC ski trails and snow tubing were not among the 26 facilities identified as either most needed or most important. In 2014 another Community Needs Assessment Survey was conducted. The top three facility NEEDS were (1) walking and biking trails, (2) nature trails, and (3) natural areas and wildlife habitats. The three MOST IMPORTANT FACILITIES were (1) walking and biking trails, (2) nature trails, and (3) natural areas and wildlife habitats. Once again, residents did not identify XC ski trails or snow tubing as needed or important facilities. Again, XC ski trails and snow tubing were not amongst the top 35 facilities identified as most needed or most important. The City Council, Staff and Park Board should pay attention to citizen priorities. See discussion below and Exs. 5 and 6. XC ski trails and snow tubing are not priorities. They are not even in the top 35 priorities. The proposal to spend $3,000,000 or more to provide man-made snow for XC ski trails and snow tubing on the Braemar East Ridge is in conflict with stated community priorities. For example, the community has clearly stated its priority for walking and biking trails, which are available year 'round. The XC and snow tubing proposal for the Braemar East Ridge would displace the walking trail that is there already. Citizens cannot walk or bike on a XC trail in the winter. It is a mistake to assume that people do not walk on paths in Braemar during the winter months. A 50' wide trail is not suitable for walking, biking or enjoying nature in the spring, summer or fall, either. A 50' wide path is not a trail. It is a highway from which nature and natural habitats have been eliminated. It would not allow for the sort of varied natural experiences, one of the recommendations that Barr Engineering made in its 2015 NIRS for Braemar Park. See discussion below and Ex. 1. A 50' wide path is nothing like a walking or nature trail. The recently issued SEH Feasibility Study for the Winter Recreation Proposal suggests that Environmental Impacts on trees and wildlife would be insignificant (Section 2.2.3; Section 2.2.4, Section 4.1 and Section 4.1.1). This assertion, however, is based on the proliferation and infestation of invasive species that have degraded the natural habitat. SEH implicitly suggests that the degraded environmental conditions caused by decades of City neglect justifies the project. This conclusion is fundamentally at odds with Community demands for more and better natural habitats, and conflicts directly with 2015 NIRS recommendations by Barr Engineering to eradicate all invasive species and regeneration of the natural Oak Savannah habitat throughout Braemar Park, including the entire East Ridge for the enjoyment of ALL citizens. Regeneration of such natural 2 habitats is what the citizens of Edina have identified as a critical priority. Bredesen Park is popular because of its natural habitat claim. The fact that the City has not managed the property in Braemar Park and has allowed invasive species to proliferate on the East Ridge and elsewhere through lack of management and maintenance is not a valid justification for ignoring the wishes of Edina citizens. Likewise, it is not a justification for ignoring the 2015 Ban NIRS recommendations and destroying the natural habitat that remains. It is clear that the environmental impacts directly conflict with the repeated desire of Edina residents for more natural habitats. The xc trail and snow tubing proposal calls for a 50' wide out and back path along the East Ridge. In spite of any claims that might be made to the contrary, a 50' wide path would inevitably result in the destruction of acres of natural habitat, including hundreds and of mature Oak and other trees on the East Ridge. The 50' width of an out and back trail would be excessive and environmentally destructive. Gleason Road is only 30' wide. A 50' wide path would be 2/3rds again as wide as Gleason Road, and equivalent to a highway across the East Ridge. The conflict between the xc and snow tubing proposal, on the one hand, and the restoration of a natural Oak Savannah habitat with intimate walking and biking trails for residents to enjoy it, on the other, is further demonstrated by the 1992 Army Corps of Engineers Permit requiring the City to do just that on the Northwest and West Ridges of Braemar Park. The City has not complied with those obligations for 25 years. See discussion below and Exs. 2 and 3. The City, Staff and Park Board can comply with the 1992 ACOE Permit, and satisfy the stated priorities of the community, by implementing the 2015 Barr recommendations to restore the natural Oak Savannah habitat throughout ALL of Braemar Park. If the City Council, Staff and Park Board need an example of the destruction that will result from a 50' wide highway across the East Ridge, they need only look to the acre of parkland and Oak Savannah on the Southwest Ridge of Braemar Park that was destroyed just weeks ago as part of an unnecessary expansion of the cold storage public works facility. See Ex. 4, and discussion below. Instead of destroying more natural habitat to construct xc ski trails and snow tubing hills that have never been identified as a need or a priority, the City, Staff and Park Board should listen to their constituents and focus their attention on and allocate resources to making walking, biking and nature trails and habitat regeneration a priority. This means restoring and regenerating the habitat in all of Braemar Park, and reclaiming parkland wherever possible, not cutting a 50' highway across the East Ridge. More specifically, instead of spending $3 million on facilities that are not needed or important to citizens, the City should allocate the much more modest resources needed to implement previous recommendations by City consultant Barr Engineering for the full regeneration of multiple varied habitats and trails throughout Braemar Park. These recommendations are environmentally correct, and consistent with the top facility needs and priorities of the community. As discussed further below, the City Council and Park Board should: 1. Eradicate all invasive species and regenerate the natural habitat throughout Braemar Park, as Barr- Engineering has recommended; 2. Comply with the 1992 Army Corps of Engineers Permit, which required the City to eradicate invasive species and restore the Oak Savannah to the Northwest and West Ridges of Braemar Park 25 years ago; 3. Implement Barr's 2015 recommendation for a complete trail circuit around, and more trail circuits and varied natural habitats within Braemar Park; and 4. Reclaim the .02 acres of Braemar Park property on the South Ridge and regenerate an Oak Savannah habitat there as compensation and mitigation for the 1 plus acre of Oak Savannah and nature trails that have been taken and the 40-50 mature Oak trees that were cut down by 3 Public Works without notice as part of an unnecessarily aggressive expansion of the cold storage facility. DISCUSSION 1: In 2016 and 2017, Implement Barr's Recommendation to Eradicate Invasive Species and Regenerate Natural Habitat Throughout Braemar Park. The City hired Barr Engineering to provide recommendations on Braemar Park wetlands, natural habitats and habitat regeneration. Barr provided its recommendations in a February 2015 Natural Resources Information Summary (NIRS). Barr recommended that the natural habitat be restored and regenerated in all of Braemar Park, not just the golf course: Braemar Golf Course is the largest green space in the City of Edina. The habitat that surrounds and intersperse the course, however, has been slowly degrading. Regular management is necessary to prevent further degradation and to allow for native plant community regeneration. If the degradation is allowed to continue valuable species and habitat will be lost. In particular, native oak trees will not regenerate in the presence of highly competitive, invasive plant species such as common buckthorn. Habitat degradation can be halted and reversed through a regeneration and management program that stewards the plant communities long into the future. Barr identified the order of priority for habitat regeneration in Braemar Park in Figure 6: (1st) The Executive Course and entry to the golf course (which has been completed); (2nd) the West Ridge (bordering the Metro Safety Building and the City Cold Storage Facility), the Northwest Ridge (north and west of the golf dome); (3rd) degraded habitat within the course (which will be completed as part of the golf course renovation); and (4) the North Boundary Wetlands (north of Hillary Lane), and the South Boundary Wetlands (along the Nine Mile Creek South Fork). Barr identified the Northwest, West and East Ridges as the "best ecological quality" habitat remaining in Braemar, and recommended that the Oak Woodland habitat be regenerated before it is too late after decades of neglect. This is a screenshot of Barr's Figure 6 habitat regeneration recommendation: 4 I`; '...;eitcatMf ;•1.; • s • Hestoralion Phamg rem lomemrdc... ATV.",. Meta 1 INIMMIMMINIEll PVelahl preys ib DlOA) in mitt re,* gem, CI lettiC 41i6ist WU, :41d1 Wait .4,4,,P48,a,....,-,14 nave fah f11,44 2 04k it'Aierilaelft Fe. e bAllicm4OLIett. P<M, 110 7vailvd arm. LlorAps isssie (ler •04erso., DIr ,a6.1 otr3srol $4,•(11•11,9 d IviUrveat Aftelf, 3 Degradod le•Ceon•Areei *verge a-an...nap. •car..1.1,1, Me, plicoLose...41.escioth..r .e.,i•••or,..,2tong 41 tweet and me 1,,kufly 11,..cal Areas +vv.* terrrIMIKIRM1 w•re6 re ..kpua,i.e 10,1 re:INTOWN as rer,.. ad, ....I'm fel, Ir. 1,:ars 4 [Invaded Wcodlerds P. AST ay. =vie I ftic sona •ra matx • hi.. +10n1 try 0 Feel 0 250 500 IM—BEW—}Mmei BARR Fijure Approach to Hatatat Rem Braemar Mailer Plan Cily Of Edna Edna, MN Invasive species eradication requires commitment, but it is not expensive. Invasive species eradication and re- seeding can be done for less than $3,000-$5,000 an acre or less: http:/ /www.midwestmairies.com/ resou rces / technical- resources /buckthorn Methods and Estimated Costs for Buckthorn Removal Hand Cutting: $1,500 - 3,000 per acre Stump Herbicide: $150 - $250 per acre Burning Piles: $500 - 2,000 per acre Forestry Mowing: $350 - 500 per acre plus a mobilization charge Herbicide Re-sprouts: $150 - 250 per acre Seeding: $300 - 600 per acre Prescribed Burning: $1,500 for a typical 20 acre site 2: Implementing Barr's 2015 Habitat Regeneration Recommendations Would Satisfy the City's Obligations Under the 1992 ACOE Permit Requiring it to Restore the Oak Savannah on the Northwest and West Ridge, an Obligation the City Has Not Met. When it built the Clunie Nine addition to the Braemar golf course, the City was required to apply for an Army Corps of Engineers Permit to provide environmental mitigation and habitat conservation as a condition for filling in wetlands along the Nine Mile Creek South Fork. In its application, the City promised and agreed to restore the Oak Savannah in most of the Northwest and West Ridges of Braemar Park, areas outside the golf course. The Northwest and West Ridges were already badly infested with invasive species. The City hired Barr to create a Restoration and Management Plan for the Oak Savannah on the Northwest and West Ridges, as mandated by the 1992 ACOE Permit. 5 The Restoration and Management Plan that Barr created as mandated by the 1992 ACOE Permit stated: In June of 1992, the City of Edina received a wetland fill permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under Section 404 of the Federal Clean Water Act, The permit allowed the City to fill in a portion of the wetland complex in Braemar Park as part of a golf course expansion project, To partially mitigate the loss of wetland habitat, the Corps of Engineers required the City to restore two publically owned, undeveloped hillsides to native oak savanna. The City has not complied with any of the mandates in the 1992 Restoration and Management Plan. Therefore, the City has not complied with and is in violation of the 1992 ACOE Peimit. To rectify this violation, the City should implement Barr's 2015 habitat regeneration recommendations, see above, which would include the Northwest and West Ridges and comply with the 1992 ACOE Mitigation and Conservation Permit. Habitat regeneration was required 25 years ago by the 1992 ACOE Mitigation and Conservation Permit, and is the environmentally correct action to take. It is also in line with the priorities of Edina citizens, who have stated in response to Community Needs Assessments in 2006 and 2014 that nature trails and habitats are a top priority, in tandem with the need for more walking, biking and nature trails. 3: In 2016 and 2017, Implement Barr's Recommendation to Create A Trail Circuit Around and Multiple Circuits and Varied Natural Habitats in Braemar Park In Section 4.2 of its 2015 NIRS, Barr recommended (a) "a full walking, [biking and nature] circuit AROUND [the entire] course" and park; (b) multiple "smaller circuits within the park;" and (c) multiple "varied natural area experiences for trail users" in and around the park: As user needs of the park evolve, the possibility of establishing a trail network around the golf course is becoming a priority. Figure 7 was produced as a preliminary examination of trail possibilities showing both existing and proposed trails. . . . Goals considering in creating this preliminary plan include: Creating a full walking circuit around course. Creating smaller circuits within the park. Creating trail connections to the neighborhoods to the north and east of the park. Creating trail connections to athletic facilities on the west side of the park. Creating trail connections to the club house. Creating varied natural area experiences for trail users. 6 4: Return .02 Acres of Parkland on the South Ridge of Braemar for Oak Savannah Habitat Regeneration as Mitigation and Compensation for the Acre of Oak Savannah that was Unnecessarily Taken and Cleared Without Public Notice or Input In late July 2016, the Public Works Department cut down more than an acre of mature Oak trees in the Oak Savannah on the Southwest Ridge of Braemar Park to create a .56 acre expansion of the cold storage facility. Sheet 6/13 below shows the area of the Oak Savannah that was taken and cleared. Although this parkland was not "protected" by the 1992 ACOE Permit (see above), Barr identified this area as higher quality Oak Savannah habitat and recommended that it be regenerated. This area also included nature trails that have been taken. Public Works took this land because it was losing the use of property at 70th and Amundson Streets, where it has been dumping street sweepings and other debris for approximately 10 years (since Public Works moved from Grandview). The taking of this park property and the destruction of Oak Savannah occurred without public notice or comment. There was no study of how much property was needed for public works, or whether these activities could be handled at other existing public works facilities or locations. No consideration was given to the original design of the cold storage facility, where all outdoor storage is on the west side of the building and shielded from view by pedestrians on the nature trails in Braemar Park. Public Works is also planning to take another .02 acres on the top of the South Ridge. The dumping and storage of debris and construction material on that .02 acre parcel is not necessary and should not be allowed. Instead, that .02 acre parcel, identified as Area A on Sheet 2/13 below, should be returned to parkland. An Oak Savannah habitat should be re-established there and the surrounding area as mitigation and compensation for the destruction of Oak Savannah on the Southwest Ridge. At least 40 Oak trees should be planted (less than the 7 F. D' SEH ThrceRivery EPA DAR CCI.D STORACE EirTE p,FOYEAVITS 10CATLN ACCESS FUN X11 he number cut down as part of the cold storage expansion) along with natural forbs and grasses. Walking, biking and nature trails should be included in this area as one of the "varied natural habitats" that Barr recommended for Braemar Park. 8 ATTACHMENTS Ex. 1 - 2015 Barr Engineering Natural Resources Information Summary for Braemar Park Ex. 2 — 1992 Army Corps of Engineers Mitigation and Conservation Permit Ex. 3 — 1992 Barr Engineering Oak Savannah Restoration and Management Plan (Mandated by 1992 ACOE Permit) Ex. 4 — Drawings for Braemar Park Takings for Cold Storage Expansion Ex. 5 — 2006 Needs Assessment Survey Ex. 6 — 2014 Needs Assessment Survey 9 Braemar Golf Course Master Plan Natural Resources Information Summary Prepared for City of Edina ,,‘_-,`6_ The CITYor ( '7.)),..‘i EDINA -, For living, Ica-rows raiong bloat" b doing ba.m. February 2015 EXHIBIT 4700 Wesi 77th Street Minneapolis, MN 55435-4803 Phone: 952.832.2600 Fax: 952.832.2601 Trends in Savanna Degradation ofcasui &WM 5tAX1CO" El.CKTICAN MOM= ILAAMAIL J1),(74,0 will, 6.1WWW4 FOAM I it 54.11-FILVz04 911. rn•11 30)± 181 Or?) oo os Areas surrounding ponds and wetlands are dominated by reed canary grass and narrow leaved cattails. Infrequently mowed areas dominated by non- native grasses (Smooth Brome) and aggressive weedy species (Canada Goldenrod). 4.1 Habitat Regeneration Recommendations Braemar Golf Course is the largest green space in the City of Edina. The habitat that surrounds and intersperse the course, however, has been slowly degrading. Regular management is necessary to prevent further degradation and to allow for native plant community regeneration. If the degradation is allowed to continue valuable species and habitat will be lost. In particular, native oak trees will not regenerate in the presence of highly competitive, invasive plant species such as common buckthorn. Habitat degradation can be halted and reversed through a regeneration and management program that stewards the plant communities long into the future. Doryl Richness Vegetation Richness Over time common buckthorn (shown In dark green) will prevent the reproduction of native forest species and result in a buckthorn monoculture. Image source: Steven Apfelbaum, Applied Ecological Services, Inc. 9 P:\Mpls\23 MN \27 \23271398 Braemar Improvements\WorkFiles\Report\CourseMasterPlan_NatResourcesInfo.docx Plant community regeneration and management can be expensive when large areas of invasive species are to be removed. Phasing regeneration activities spreads out the cost making efforts feasible. The approach recommended here directs initial management efforts to the east entry of the park along Hilary Lane (Zone 1 in Figure 6). Regeneration efforts start here in order to attract attention and engage Edina citizens to inspire them to support this effort. Much of this work is being incorporated into the executive course renovation taking place in 2015. Figure 6 suggests a sequence for regeneration efforts. After the park entry projects are completed, regeneration efforts should move to the remnant oak forests (Zone 2 in Figure 6). In this management approach, buckthorn and other invasive species are to be removed from the highest quality forests first. Then efforts move to more degraded habitats. Native wildflowers, sedges, grasses and shrubs can be planted after invasive plants have been removed. Thereafter, it is critical that invasive species be controlled each year. If not, buckthorn will quickly recolonize. The last areas for regeneration are the lowest quality forests and wetlands (Zones 3 and 4). These areas will require extensive work because most are composed completely of weedy and invasive species. In some cases significant clearing will be necessary to establish a maintainable native plant community. Low quality woodland dominated by mature buckthorn trees lack diversity and quality habitat for native flora and fauna. It cannot be stressed enough that once an area has undergone initial regeneration efforts, regular maintenance to keep invasive species at bay will be necessary to achieve a stable native habitat. Budgets should be planned for perpetual maintenance for areas receiving initial regeneration work. 4.2 Park Trails As user needs of the park evolve, the possibility of establishing a trail network around the golf course is becoming a priority. Figure 7 was produced as a preliminary examination of trail possibilities showing both existing and proposed trails. This map should be considered preliminary in that it shows options for 10 P:\Mpls\23 MN \27 \23271398 Braemar Improvements\WorkFiles\Report\CourseMasterPlan_NatResourcesinfo.docx new trail placement. Conflicts exist with golfing. Specific situations require further examination. The purpose of this figure is to inspire thoughts for additional uses of the park. Goals considering in creating this preliminary plan include: Creating a full walking circuit around course. • Creating smaller circuits within the park. • Creating trail connections to the neighborhoods to the north and east of the park. • Creating trail connections to athletic facilities on the west side of the park. • Creating trail connections to the club house. • Creating varied natural area experiences for trail users. 11 P:\Mpls\23 MN \27\23271398 Braemar Improvements\WorkFiles\ReporKourseMasterPlan_NatResourcesInfo.docx Restoration Phasing This m3{1311.3 suggested phased implementation of regmaration protects Rohnator plantinos along main entrance add color and beauty In most visible portion of course Remove .otic and invasive Nabs and grasses mod replace Mao native pollinator spades Native oak trees may Aso be planted here. 2 ilikiv.9dtand • Remove buckthorn and exotic honeysuckle from oak voodtand areas. Manage buckthorn to maintain dear understory for native woodland plant spades Eome planting o` native herbaceous species may be necessary. 3 Degraded ln.Course Areas Remove end manage exotic and invasive spades isbitin gall course. Areas of exotic and invasive species are sauces ot seed and make management of previously restored areas more (Stir/sub Currently wunoveed natural areas viten the course are allow ecological naive and are reconummded to be planted and restored hith native sedge. grass and torb species 4 Degraded Woodlands Remove buckthorn from wetlands on north and south side of golf comae These areas are comprised& large stands cif mature buddhorn trees Feet 0 250 500 1,000 ta...oLt Figure 6 Approach to Habitat Regeneration Braemar Master Planning City of Edina Edina, MN 1,000 Feet 0 250 500 Park Trails The map snows existing and potenlial trot atgnrrents. Braemar Park Boundary — Existing Trail — Proposed Trail 0 Proposed Trail Connection Existing Trail Connection 0 Existing Trail Connection to Golf Course — Improved Connection to Club House/Restaurant Club House/Restaurant — Existing Sidewalk -- Proposed Sidewalk — North Loop Trail (Proposed) --- Boardwalk (Proposed) Existing Wetland BARR Figure 7 Natural Area Trail Improvement- Boardwalk Option Braemar Master Planning City of Edina Edina, MN 122,1.21 ar - DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY PERMIT Permittee City of Edina, Minnesota Permit No. 89-1389-12 St, Paul District Issuing Office U , S. Army Corps of Engineers NOTE: The term "you" and its derivatives, as used in this permit, means the permittee or any future transferee. The term "this office" refers to the appropriate district or division office of the Corps of Engineers having jurisdiction over the permitted activity or the appropriate official of that office acting under the authority of the commanding officer. You are authorized to perform work in accordance with the terms and conditions specified below. Project Description: You are authorized to place fill material into approximately 4.9 acres of wetland during the development of a 9-hole regulation golf course within Braemar Park, The acreage of fill and the location of the fill areas are shown on Attachment E of the December 1990 Amendment to the Department of the Army permit application, and as shown on the attached permit drawings and tables labeled 89-1389-12, pages 1 of 6 through 6 of 6. Project Inc;ition: The proj ect involves filling wetlands along the South Fork of Nine Mile Creek in the south 1/2 of section 7, T116N, R21W , Hennepin County, Minnesota Permit Conditions: General Conditions: 1, The time limit for completing the work authorized ends on December 31, 1994 . If you find that you need more time to complete the authorized activity, submit your request for a time extension to this office for consideration at least one month before the date is reached. 2. You must maintain the activity authorized by this permit in good condition and in conformance with the terms and conditions of this permit. You are not relieved of this requirement if you abandon the permitted activity, although you may make a good faith transfer to a third party in compliance with General Condition 4 below. Should you wish to cease to maintain the authorized activity or should you desire to abandon it without a good faith transfer, you must obtain a modification of this permit from this office, which may require restoration of the area. 3. If you discover any previously unknown historic or archaeological remains while accomplishing the activity authorized by this permit, you must immediately notify this office of what you have found. We will initiate the Federal and state coordination required to determine if the remains warrant a recovery effort or if the site is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. ENG FORM 1721, Nov 86 EDITION OF SEP 82 IS OBSOLETE (33 CFR 320-330) 4. If you sell the property associated with this permit, you must obtain the signature of the new owner in the space provided and forward a copy of the permit to this office to validate the transfer of this authorization. 5. If a conditioned water quality certification has been issued for your project, you must comply with the conditions specified in the certification as special conditions to this permit. For your convenience, a copy of the certification is attached if it contains such conditions. 6. You must allow representatives from this office to Inspect the authorized activity at any time deemed necessary to ensure that it is being or has been accomplished in accordance with the terms and conditions of your permit. Special Conditions: 1. The permittee must construct/create the compensatory mitigation sites as indicated on the permit tables and drawings, labeled pages 1 of 6 through 6 of 6. The mitigation shall follow the plans described in Section 8 of the December 1990 amendment to the permit application. The permittee shall provide the Corps with detailed construction plans for the mitigation work. Plans shall be shown at a 1-inch - 50- foot or 1-inch - 100-foot scale. All mitigation work must be completed prior to, or concurrent with, the construction of the golf course. 2. In order to minimize the introduction of chemicals into waters/wetlands of the United States, the permittee shall grade all fill areas such that herbicides and other chemicals cannot readily flow into adjacent waters/wetlands. Such grading may require the construction of berms along these waters/wetlands. Also, the permittee shall establish a natural vegetative buffer, at least 15 feet wide, along all existing and created wetlands bordering both the existing golf course areas to be altered as part of the new golf course construction and along the edges of the golf course holes to be constructed. This berm or vegetative buffer shall be established in all areas where the Special Conditions continued on Page 4. ------------ _•-_^ Further Information: 1. Congressional Authorities: You have been authorized to undertake the activity described above pursuant to: ( ) Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (33 U.S.C. 403). (X) Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344). ( ) Section 103 of the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 (33 U.S.C. 1413). 2. Limits of this authorization. a. This permit does not obviate the need to obtain other Federal, state, or local authorizations required by law. b. This permit does not grant any property rights or exclusive privileges. c. This permit does not authorize any injury to the property or rights of others. d. This permit does not authorize interference with any existing or proposed Federal project. 3. Limits of Federal Liability. In issuing this permit, the Federal Government does not assume any liability for the following: a. Damages to the permitted project or uses thereof as a result of other permitted or unpermitted activities or from natural causes. b. Damages to the permitted project or uses thereof as a result of current or future activities undertaken by or on behalf of the United States in the public Interest. 2 c. Damages to persons, property, or to other permitted or unpermitted activities or structures caused by the activity authorized by this permit. d. Design or construction deficiencies associated with the permitted work, e. Damage claims associated with any future modification, suspension, or revocation of this permit. 4. Reliance on Applicant's Data: The determination of this office that issuance of this permit Is not contrary to the public interest was made in reliance on the information you provided. 5. Reevaluation of Permit Decision. This office may reevaluate its decision on this permit at any time the circumstances warrant. Circumstances that could require a reevaluation Include, but are not limited to, the following: a. You fall to comply with the terms and conditions of this permit. b. The information provided by you in support of your permit application proves to have been false, incomplete, or inaccurate (See 4 above). c. Significant new information surfaces which this office did not consider in reaching the original public interest decision. Such a reevaluation may result in a determination that it is appropriate to use the suspension, modification, and revocation procedures contained in 33 CFR 325.7 or enforcement procedures such as those contained in 33 CFR 326.4 and 326.5. The referenced enforcement procedures provide for the issuance of an administrative order requiring you to comply with the terms and conditions of your permit and for the initiation of legal action where appropriate. You will be required to pay for any corrective measures ordered by this office, and if you fail to comply with such directive, this office may in certain situations (such as those specified in 33 CFR 209.170) accomplish the corrective measures by contract or otherwise and bill you for the cost. 6. Extensions. General condition 1 establishes a time limit for the completion of the activity authorized by this permit. Unless there arc circumstances requiring either a prompt completion of the authorized activity or a reevaluation of the public interest decision, the Corps will normally give favorable consideration to a request for an extension of this time limit. Your signature below, as permittee, indicates that you accept and agree to comply with the terms and conditions of this permit. • / / (PERMITTEE) (DATE) This permit becomes effective when the Federal official, designated to act for the Secretary of the Army, has signed below. ki 9 RICHARD W. CRAIG Colonel, Corps of Engineers District Engineer When the structures or work authorized by this permit are still in existence at the time the property is transferred, the terms and conditions of this permit will continue to be binding on the new owner(s) of the property. To validate the transfer of this permit and the associated liabilities associated with compliance with its terms and conditions, have the transferee sign and date below. (77ZANSFERREE) (DATE) 3 (D STRICT ENGINEE,7 (DATE) Special Conditions continued from Page 2. (special condition 2 continued) topography slopes towards the water/wetlands such that applied chemicals could readily enter waters/wetlands. 3. The permittee shall develop a management plan that ensures that the 2 oak savanna hills in the western portion of Braemar Park, labeled as Parcels A and B on the attached map, are maintained as natural areas. No fill may be placed in the wetland until this managetent plan is reviewed and approved by the Corps. Future conservancy enhancement work May be allowed in these areas upon prior notice and approval from the Corps. 4. The permittee shall execute a Covenant of Dedication on the area labeled Parcel C on the attached map within Braemar Park which involves the remaining wetland in the southwest portion of the Park. 5, The permittee shall maintain the remaining wetland, within the City of Edina, along the south property line of Braemar Park for conservancy use in accordance with the enclosed Covenant of Dedication. This area is shown as Parcel C on the attached map. 6. The permittee shall survey and prepare a legal description of Parcels A and B for inclusion in the management plan and Parcel C for inclusion in the Covenant of Dedication. 7. The permittee shall take the necessary actions to record this permit and Dedication of Covenant with the appropriate County Recorder or Registrar of Deeds responsible for maintaining records of title to, or interest in, real property, The permittee shall provide evidence to the Corps that the permit has been properly recorded. 8. The permittee shall provide the Corps with an annual report, for 5 years, documenting the effectiveness of the mitigation work and the management activities in the oak savanna parcels. These reports shall include color photographs taken each year from the same vantage point. 9. Erosion control measures such as silt fences and straw bale dikes shall be installed prior to any construction activities, and will be maintained, until all exposed slopes are stabilized by mulch, vegetation or other protective covering. 10. Refer to the Standard Conditions enclosure. ----- 4 ----------------- -1••••,‘",. B B $IL j 89-1389-12 permit page 6 of 6 Delineating Parcels A, B and C BRAEMAR SAVANNA RESTORATION PROJECT City of Edina RESTORATION MANACIE.\?.1_1EiNT PLAN Brian H. Star:ding Braemar Savanna Mgt. Plan 2 L BACKGROUND: In June of 1992, the City of Edina received a wetland fill permit from the U.S, Army Corps of Engineers under Section 404 of the Federal Clean Water Act. The permit allowed the City to fill in a portion of the wetland complex in Braemar Park as part of a golf course expansion project. To partially mitigate the loss.of wetland habitat, the Corps of Engineers required the City to restore two publicly owned, undeveloped hillsides to native oak savanna, Barr Engineering assisted the City with the initial permit application and drafted a set of management goals for the degraded savanna area., The City of Edina contracted with the University of Minnesota to produce a long-term management plan to restore the area. University consultation began in July of 1993. IL GENERAL DESCRIPTION QF sym Braemar Park sits on the southwestern corner of the City of Edina, near the intersection of U.S, Route 169 and Valley View Road. The restoration site lies entirely within the park boundaries, next to a public golf course on the east, and next to the city ice arena, parking facilities and athletic fields on the west and north. On the south side of the site, a managed wetland complex drains the golf course and the highway into Nine Mile Creek, which eventually outlets into the Minnesota River. Single-family residential development dominates the landscape surrounding the park (Map 1). The 23-acre area contains two distinct parcels, each approximately 12.5 acres. The southern parcel (Parcel A) begins near the Brian Wipperman Memorial Gun Range and extends north to the golf course maintenance shed. The northern parcel (Parcel B), located on the western side of Braemar Avenue by the Edina Golf Dome, extends from the ice arena on the south to the city softball fields on the north. Both parcels sit atop glacial kames with steep slopes and sandy to gravelly, well-drained soils, Parcel A rises from a base of 860 feet above sea level to two 60-foot hills, forming slopes in some places as steep as 50%. Parcel B, .although as high, is more uniform, rising gently to a single peak (Ivlap 2). N. N. i/4 SEC. 7, TiI6, R21 If" Er E 146. 1/4 .EC. 7, T116, P21 / Is RIFLE RANGE 60' E ma. ilg- 141\1 — B30 — C — B30 Mar ST or w atk 00' Braemar Savanna Mgt. Plan 9 VI. RESTORATION 8z. MANAGEMENT: Management _G The poor condition and small size of the Braemar site precludes a ,complete recovery to a fully functional ecosystem. Historically, plants, animals, insects and climate reacted together in a complex web of interdependence. Missing elements, such as the absence of Bison, or introduced elements, such as invasion by exotic plants, can profoundly alter the dynamics of the system, The goal of restoration efforts should therefore be to recreate, as closely 'as possible, the prehistoric structure of the prairie, savanna, woodland and forest, By reintroducing native species and employing management techniques such as controlled burning, we can try to mimic the natural processes that shaped the landscape. Exotic plants will likely never be entirely eradicated;. at best, competition from natives may reduce their current dominance. Once restored, the site will require periodic maintenance, including weed control, regular burns and frequent monitoring. Management Units & Survey Plots: Maps 4A & 4B show each parcel divided into three or four ecological zones. Each zone is further divided into two management units. Scheduling of controlled burns, herbicide applications or other periodic treatments should rotate through each treatment unit, so that only one such unit per zone receives a particular treatment in any given year. This will allow comparisons between treated and untreated sites, facilitating monitoring and evaluation of treatment methods. One 10-meter by 10-meter (20-meter by 25-meter in wooded areas) survey plot has been established for each management unit, and a detailed biological inventory has been conducted for each plot. This inventory should be updated annually for all survey plots, at least for the first ten years. Braemar Savanna Mgt. Plan 10 Treatment Methods: Controlled Burning: Prairie, savanna and oak woodland communities all depend on periodic fires for their maintenance, Fire decreases woody invaders, decreases shade cover, promotes germination of many native plants, and returns essential nutrients to the soil, The City of Edina should plan on conducting fall or spring burns on portions of the site each year. Fall burns may mimic the pattern set by Native Americans in pm-European times and allow seeds planted in the dormant season to stratify over the winter. Spring fires, on the other hand, usually burn more hotly and completely. Controlled Burn Schedule: Zone: Begin: Restoration Phase: Maintenance Phase: Prairie P-1: Fall 1993 P-2: Spring 1994 Burn every other year until non- native species coverage = l 0% or less. Burn every 3 years. Savanna S-1: Spring 1994 S-2: Fall 1994 Bum every other year until shrub coverage = 10% or less. Burn every 5 years. Woodland W-1: Fall 1994 W-2: Fall 199S Burn every 3 years until woody stem density = 1/square meter or less, Burn every 10 years. Forest F-1 81. F-2: N/A Do not deliberately burn. Do not burn. Reseeclinz Schedule: I;racrnur sod van n-,-, Mgt. Plan 1 ,1 Zone: Begin: Restoration Cycle: Prairie Savanna P-1: Fail )993 P-2: Spring 1994 S-1: Spring 1994 S-2: Fall 1994 For areas with native coverage = lOqi., or less, reseed immediately after first burn with P.R.I. Mixed Height-Mesic Grass Mix (or equivalent). Reseed after second or third burn with following Id i bs, from local sources N,Vhere p()Stijble-_!: (List forthcoming from E. Cushing) Woodland W-1! Fall 1995 W-2: Fail 1996 If nat.ve coverage one growing season after burn or weed control is 10% or less, reseed with following species, using local sour,:es where possible: {List forthcoming from F. Cushing) Fores-, F-.1: Fall 1995 F-2: Fall 1996 If native coverage one growing season after weed control is or less, reseed with following species: ilist forthcoming frcin E. Cushing} . .. . ... I 4 COLD STORAGE • ' 7-BUILDING • I WORKING SPA)-1. —0.56, ACRES SOUTH METRO \ PUBLIC SAFETY \ TRAINING FACILITY I, ' • --- ROCK CONSTRUCT,ON ENTRANCE 1 CONSTRUCTION: ACCESS-. efni!riirEp • 7 • ..„. • tabbier H:fe US 169 ROCK CONSTRUCTION ENTRANCE AR) A A SEE SHEE I 7 E F O M) 169 cp010kC'C. ON—SITE RECYCLED' ' AGGREGATE BASE AREA 05 ‘6B I AREA 8 SUE SHEET 6 OAK SAVANNAH," • BOUNDARY BRAEMAR GOLF COURSE OSO111 II9a. Z. sEl ThreeRivers IMIVICT BRAEMAR COLD STORAGE SITE 111FROVBJENTS LOCATION MAP AAD ACCESS FLAN 13 SING iTALKOL PluOv ci". Va EieirvG 514 E31S70.11.,i1G Ctia-4.0 ./. .., ...... \ ....., \ \ ..., \ ...., ,,,,,c1 ..i1 "US • A-Non NJ, -,...., C. 411, 07 712 „..., .., ,... .., ...., ........,;.„ ,,,,,..v.• v....4%. ,,,,,,,,,„, - NOINI ... TM. 11 .,...,.,-----Z:ZtfilT7 ..," - piA11.0 LVITS Fa S.:. NON-," • 10,010 E-07475 62,6 E)C3Th0 CANE/TONS AND rEMOVAL.S BFUBAAR COLD STORAGE SRE IMPROVEMENTS 13 • rtwas ThreeRivers WIC PKTAteT 130.M 61 "I" Et I :13 m V lArld NOLLV9011334 1.11.17111,1 siaAmpa..ita ar. 411 V,1 •e1.530 .1110. 1111051.3 IV .11 .ba tt _ vt :1 ft t SINEIYHAOlkilfa 3116 30VVOIS MOO EIVIIEIVal muirast V te2,1110.1 C Al. 0 0.111C. 11 111-Z Arun OS Al. 0 skavrosi a t7:-st 3en4rA 0335 Al. 0 .5310,4 12. 11111. 10,016 11CGOO • E.: Gni. i.orn - r t LTi a f I EXHIBIT Community Attitude and Interest Survey Executive Summary of Citizen Survey Results Overview of the Methodology The City of Edina conducted a Parks and Recreation Facilities and Services Needs Assessment Survey during September of 2006 to establish priorities for the future development of parks and recreation facilities, programs and services within the community. The survey was designed to obtain statistically valid results from households throughout the City of Edina. The survey was administered by mail. Leisure Vision worked extensively with City of Edina officials in the development of the survey questionnaire. This included holding a series of focus groups and stakeholder interviews with City of Edina elected officials, staff, board members, and community members on August 2and 3, 2006. This work allowed the survey to be tailored to issues of strategic importance to effectively plan the future system. In September 2006, surveys were mailed to a random sample of 3,000 households in the City of Edina. Approximately three days after the surveys were mailed, each household that received a survey also received an electronic voice message encouraging them to complete the survey. The goal was to obtain a total of at least 500 completed surveys. This goal was far exceeded with a total of 865 surveys being completed. The results of the random sample of 865 households have a 95% level of confidence with a precision of at least +/-3.4%. The following pages summarize major survey findings: Executive Summary - 1 Q7. Percentage of Respondent Households That Have a Need for Various Parks and Recreation Facilities by percentage of respondents (multiple choices could he made) Walking and hiking trails 86% Natural areas and wildlife habitats 18 and 9 hole golf courses 49% Playground equipment 45% Art center 40% Indoor fitness and exercise facilities 40% Indoor runninglwalking track 37% Outdoor tennis courts 37% Indoor swimming pools 37% Warming houses 36% Indoor golf dome 32% Indoor playground 31% Outdoor spray pool parks 28% Outdoor hockey rinks 26% Soccer fields 26% Off-leash dog park 26% Indoor hockey and figure skating rink 24% Indoor nature center 23% Senior center 21% Baseball fields 20% Indoor sports facility 19% Indoor basketball and volleyball court 19% Football fields 12% Softball fields 12% Skateboard park 7% Lacrosse fields 6% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 66,% Cis-tools Need for Parks and Recreation Facilities From the list of 27 various parks and recreation facilities, respondents were asked to indicate which ones they and members of their household have a need for. The following summarizes key findings: • Six of the 27 parks and recreation facilities had at least 40% of respondent households indicate they have a need for them. These six facilities include: walking and biking trails (86%), natural areas and wildlife habitats (66%), 18 and 9 hole golf courses (49%), playground equipment (45%), indoor art center (40%) and indoor fitness and exercise facilities (40%). Executive Summary - 10 Indoor fitness and exercise facilities 17% Indoor playground 13010 Off-leash dog park 1 1 I 13% Outdoor tennis courts 41 I I I 12% Outdoor spray pool parks p I 12% Soccer fields J 12% Indoor running/walking track li I 1 11% Senior center M1"--7-1-1 11% Art center a I 1 1 11% Indoor hockey and figure skating rink avilU 9% Outdoor hockey rinks EfTa: 9% Indoor swimming pools II I I 0% Indoor golf dome J—I—T—I 8% 1:, Baseball fields ',—. 6% Indoor basketball and volleyball court If 5% i Indoor sports facility 11 4% Warming houses I I 4% , Indoor nature center iii 4% Football fields DE 3% Softball fields II 3% Lacrosse fields f[1] 2% Skateboard park IE 2% Other 01 3% Walking and biking trails 1 Natural areas and wildlife habitats I r 13U% 18 and 9 hole golf courses I I 27% Playground equipment iskaSKIAt 24% I I 164% Q8. Parks and Recreation Facilities That Are Most Important to Respondent Households by percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top four choices 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% Mt Most Important IJ2nd Most Important El3rd Most Important Egth Most Important ;‘.1$1t.c ',I.!. 11(,- Most Important Parks and Recreation Facilities From the list of 27 parks and recreation facilities, respondents were asked to select the four facilities that are most important to them and members of their household. The following summarizes key findings: n Based on the sum of their top 4 choices, the facilities that respondent households rated as the most important include: walking and biking trails (64%), natural areas and wildlife habitat (30%), 18 and 9 hole golf course (27%), and playground equipment (24%). It should also be noted that walking and biking trails had the highest percentage of respondents select it as their first choice as the most important facility. Executive Summary - 14 725 W. Frontier Circle Olathe, KS =66061 (913) 829-1215 October 2014 Findings Report for a statistically Valid Comprehensive Community Needs Assessment Su vey Themyof EDINA ...For living, learnithg, xaising fanxilies & doing business Submitted to The City of Edina, M By 55% 56% 45% 42% 42% 41% 40% 39% 32%', 30% 28% 27% 27% 26% 25% 21% 21% 20% 19% 17% 17% 15% 12% 12% 11%, 9% 7% 6 Q8. Households that Have a Need for Parks and Recreation Facilities by percentage of respondents (multiple choices could be made) Walking and biking Valls Nature trails Natural areas and wildlife habitats Picnic areas Park shelter buildings Indoor fitness and exercise facilities Playground equipmbnt Outdoor swimming poollwater park 18 and 9 hole golf courses Outdoor tennis courts Indoor swimming pools for recreation Soccer fields Community gardens Outdoor hockey'rinks Off-leash do4 park Indoor playground Indoor hockey and figure skating rink Senior Center Mountain biking trails Outdoor splash pads Baseball and softball fields Outdoor basketball courts Indoor basketball and volleyball courts Football and lacrosse fields Archery range Ultimate Frisbee fields Pickle ball courts Skateboard park 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Some t aisure t i6oftril'e Institute for the Cibr or Edina (October 71.1141 Charts and Graphs 7 23% 21% 20% 14 % 17% 14% 12% , 10% 10% 10% 10% _ 9% I _1 8% 7% 6% 6% 6% 5% 4% 4% 3% 2% 2% 2% Q9. Parks and Recreation Facilities that Are Most Important to Households by percentage of respondents who selected the Item as one of their top four choices Walking and biking trails Nature trails Natural areas and wildlife habitats 18 and 9 hole golf courses Playground equipment Off4eash dog rt,ark Indoor fitness and exercise facilities Soccer fields Outdoor swimming poolAvaterwark Indoor swimming pools for recreation Senior coiner Outdoor tennis courts Outdoor hockey rinks Indoor hockey and figure skating rink Picnic areas Community gardens Baseball and softball fields Indoor playground Outdoor splash pads Park shelte,r buildings Mountaintilking trails Football and lacrosse fields Indoor basketball and volleyball courts Pickle ball courts Outdoor basketball courts Ultimate Frisbee fields Archery range Skateboard park None chosen 0% =Most Important 02nd Most Important 03rd Most Important O4th Most Important )5»»,c 1,-)stircV),:icsolErC lnsiitute tai the City or Earn (0,3ober 1) 0 20% 40% 60% 66% 80% Charts and Graphs 9