HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-05-12 Parks & Rec Comm PacketAgenda
Parks and Recreation Commission
City Of Edina, Minnesota
VIRTUAL MEETING
This meeting will be held electronically using Webex software. The meeting will be streamed
live on the City's YouTube channel, YouTube.com/EdinaTV or you can listen to the meeting
via telephone by calling 1-415-655-0001 access code 133 816 7800
Wednesday, May 12, 2021
7:00 PM
I.Call To Order
II.Roll Call: Haas, Miller, Nelson, Strother, Willette, McAwley, Doscotch,
Good, Mork, Nahlovsky, Sorem, Ites
III.Approval Of Meeting Agenda: Haas, Miller, Nelson, Strother, Willette,
McAwley, Doscotch, Good, Ites
IV.Special Recognitions And Presentations
A.Commission Member Review
V.Reports/Recommendations
A.2021 Work Plan Updates
VI.Chair And Member Comments
VII.Sta. Comments
A.City Council Updates April 20 and May 4, 2021
B.Informational Items
C.Upcoming Meetings and Events
VIII.Adjournment: Haas, Miller, Nelson, Strother, Willette, McAwley,
Doscotch, Good, Ites
The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the
public process. If you need assistance in the way of hearing ampli4cation, an
interpreter, large-print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861
72 hours in advance of the meeting.
Date: May 12, 2021 Agenda Item #: IV.A.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Perry Vetter, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:Commission Member Review Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None, informational only.
INTRODUCTION:
MJ Lamon, Community Engagement Coordinator, will give a commission member review presentation to the
Parks and Recreation Commission.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Commission Member Review
Boards and Commission Handbook
MJ Lamon, Community Engagement
Coordinator
Updated 2021.05.05
Commission
Member Review
2021
Agenda
2
Roles
Communication
Guiding Documents
Work Plan Development
Council
StaffCommissions
Decide Strategy
Advise Council
Community
Perspective
Manage Operations,
Implement Policy,
Advise Council
Technical Analysis
Council
•Make policy-level decisions
•Hire & supervise City Manager•Approve
-Budget and related work plan
-Ordinances and policy decisions
-Development proposals
-Variances and rezoning requests•Appoint advisory boards and commissions
Staff
•Provide best efforts and technical advice to
Council
•Manage operations and staff
•Propose budget and policies•Carry out Council decisions
•Deliver services
•Equitable enforce codes and policies
Advisory Boards, Commission & Task Forces
•Provide community perspective on values and
needs•Propose work plan items
•Advise the council through work plan charges
•Hold hearings as directed by Council
•Assist as directed in work plan with engagement
efforts
Supporting Council
Technique Examples on the Spectrum
Increasing Impact on the Decision
Inform Consult Involve Collaborate Empower
Board & Commissions
Task Forces
Website
Open House
Public Hearing
Workshop
Survey
Focus Groups
Public
Meetings
Publications
City Extra
Correspondence Stakeholder Interviews
Fact Sheets
Comment FormsFairs/Events
Tours & Field Trips
SHARE COLLECT BRING TOGETHER
5
Commission Subcommittee Working
Group Task Force
Tenure Ongoing Temporary Temporary Temporary
Members Residents Commission
members only
Commission +
Public members As defined
Scope Work Plan Work Plan Item Work Plan Item Task Force
Charge
OML Required Not required Not required Not required
Staff Yes No Not typically Yes
Reports To Council Commission Commission Council or
City Manager
Key Roles
6
CHAIR STAFF LIAISON
•Work with liaison to prepare
agenda
•Lead meetings and
facilitate discussion
•Facilitate development of
the annual work plan and
provide progress updates
•Encourage member
participation
•Manage areas of conflict
•Support chair with agenda and
preparation of meeting materials
•Provide official notice of
meetings
•Record & prepare minutes.
•Maintain BC official records
•Provide technical expertise and
access to City staff and
resources
•Relay information to council
7
Meeting Minutes •Staff Liaison submits in council packet once approved.
•Provide a summary of discussion.
•All meetings are audio or video recorded.
Work Plan •Approved by the council, assigns work for the year and authority level
(Council Charge)
Joint Work Session •Annual meeting of Council & one BC to discuss progress on work plan.
Staff Report •Staff reports are prepared by the liaison to forward a work plan item to
the council for approval or direction.
•Staff reports outline: 1) BC recommendations, 2) Staff
recommendations, and 3) Highlight any differences between.
Advisory
Communication
•Prepared and approved by the BC.
•Placed on “Report & Recommendations” if an approved work plan item.
•Placed on “Correspondence” if not a work plan item.
Communication with Council
www.EdinaMN.gov 8
Guiding Documents
City Code
Roles of Boards and Commissions generally and specifically
Polices & Procedures
Member Handbook (updated annually)
Work Plan
Work approved and directed by Council
9
Work Plans
10
Commission Work Plan Calendar
10
Annual Work Plan Begins
January
Commissions develop proposed work plans with liaison advice and feedback
June–Aug.
Commission approves proposed work plan
September 25
Chairs present proposed work plans to Council
October
Staff present recommendations to Council
November 4
Council approves work plans
December 7
Work Plan Development
11
Commission Chair
•Lead work plan development
•Make sure work plan is not overloaded
•Ensure there is a “lead to each initiative
•Present proposed work plan to City Council
Staff Liaison
•Provide technical expertise, recommendations and advice to the commission
•Provide clear recommendations to City Management and/or Council to consider
•Ensure work plan template fields are completed
12
Title
Be clear and provide detail
Outcome
What exactly will be the product / result of your initiative
Budget
Commission’s can not approve spending of money
Liaison Comments
Liaisons will provide you technical advice and feedback
Target Completion
Be realistic, impacts to supporting departments
Partner Projects
Cross commission initiatives, outside requests
Work Plan
Tips
Questions?
www.EdinaMN.gov 13
Board/Commission Member Handbook 1 | P a g e
Inside the City ............................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Mission ............................................................................................................................................................. 3
Local Government Structure ..................................................................................................................... 3
Department Functions ................................................................................................................................. 3
City Council ................................................................................................................................................... 4
City Leadership .............................................................................................................................................. 4
Staff Liaisons ................................................................................................................................................... 4
About Boards & Commissions ................................................................................................................................................ 5
Roles ................................................................................................................................................................. 5
Membership & Guidelines ........................................................................................................................... 6
Types of Members ........................................................................................................................................ 6
Key Players ..................................................................................................................................................... 6
Committees and Working Groups ........................................................................................................... 7
Committee / Working Group Membership & Guidelines .................................................................. 7
Appointments and Chair Assignments ..................................................................................................... 9
Disbanding....................................................................................................................................................... 9
Guiding Documents ...................................................................................................................................... 9
Annual Calendar .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Meetings ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Types of Meetings ....................................................................................................................................... 10
Attendance ................................................................................................................................................... 11
Quorum and Voting ................................................................................................................................... 12
Meeting Packet ............................................................................................................................................. 12
Agenda ........................................................................................................................................................... 12
Minutes .......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Robert’s Rules of Order............................................................................................................................ 13
Communication ......................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Open Meeting Law...................................................................................................................................... 14
Communication with City Council ......................................................................................................... 14
Annual Work Plan....................................................................................................................................... 15
Communication with the Public .............................................................................................................. 17
Ethical and Respectful Conduct ............................................................................................................................................. 17
Board/Commission Member Handbook 2 | P a g e
Conflict of Interest ..................................................................................................................................... 17
Gifts ................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Respectful Behavior .................................................................................................................................... 17
Code of Ethics ............................................................................................................................................. 18
Novus Boardview ........................................................................................................................................ 18
Board/Commission Member Handbook 3 | P a g e
Mission
Our mission is to provide effective and valued public services, maintain a sound public infrastructure,
offer premier public facilities and guide the development and redevelopment of lands, all in a manner
that sustains and improves the uncommonly high quality of life enjoyed by our residents and
businesses.
Local Government Structure
Edina is a statutory Plan B City.
• City Council consists of the Mayor and four Council members.
• The vote of the Mayor counts the same as a Council member vote.
• The City Council is responsible for policy and legislative decisions.
• City Council employs the City Manager, who oversees the day-to-day operations of the City.
Department Functions
Human Resources
• Recruitment and selection
• Compensation and benefits
• Employee and labor relations
• Employment policies
• Performance management
• Training and development
• Safety and worker’s compensation
• General liability and risk management
• Payroll
Communications
• Media and publications
• Marketing
• Website and social media
Finance
• Budget
• Investments
• Accounts payable
• Accounts receivable
Police
• Patrol
• Investigations
• Dispatch
• Records
• Community Health
Fire
• Fire suppression and prevention
• Emergency medical
• Emergency preparedness
• Building plan review
Public Works
• Street maintenance
• Utility Operations
• Fleet Maintenance
• Electrical
• HVAC
Engineering
• Design
• Project management
• Environmental services
• Transportation
• Sustainability strategy & measurement
• Property management
Parks and Recreation
• Recreation programs
• Manage enterprise facilities
• Liquor Store Operations
• Parks maintenance
Community Development
• Planning
• Zoning
• Heritage preservation
• Sign permits
• Residential & commercial appraisal
• Economic Development
Administration
• Council relations
• Boards and Commissions
• Strategic Planning
• Neighborhood Associations
Board/Commission Member Handbook 4 | P a g e
• Building permits
• Building inspections
I.T.
• Network management
• Telecommunications
• End-user support and training
• GIS
• Elections
• Records Management & Licenses
• Performance measurement
City Council
Mayor James
Hovland
James Pierce Carolyn Jackson Kevin Staunton Ron Anderson
City Leadership
Scott Neal
City Manager
• Responsible for hiring and managing
City staff
• City Manager carries out policy
direction of Council
Lisa Schaefer
Assistant City Manager
Staff Liaisons
Susan Tarnowski
Arts & Culture
Commission
Cary Teague
Planning
Commission
Perry Vetter
Parks & Recreation
Commission
Andrew Scipioni
Transportation
Commission
Bob Wilson
Board of Appeals
& Equalization
Emily Bodeker
Heritage
Preservation
Commission
Dave Fisher
Construction Board
of Appeals
Grace Hancock
Energy &
Environment
Commission
Jeff Brown
Community Health
Commission
Heidi Lee
Human Rights &
Relations
Commission
Board/Commission Member Handbook 5 | P a g e
Roles
Objectives of Boards and Commissions:
• City Council establishes Boards and Commissions to engage residents into city work.
• City Staff supports Boards and Commissions to assist with effective governance.
• Board and Commission members serve the community and can participate in meaningful work.
Supporting City Council:
Edina’s Boards and Commissions are
established by the City Council and serve
as advisors to the council. Boards and
Commissions and City Staff are
accountable to City Council.
Council
• Make policy-level decisions
• Hire & supervise City Manager
• Appoint advisory boards and commissions
• Approve
- Budget and related work plan
- Ordinances and policy decisions
- Development proposals
- Variances and rezoning requests
Staff
• Provide best efforts and technical advice to
Council
• Manage operations and staff
• Propose budget and policies
• Carry out Council decisions
• Deliver services
• Equitable enforce codes and policies
Advisory Boards, Commission & Task Forces
• Provide community perspective on values and
needs
• Propose work plan items
• Advise the council through work plan charges
• Hold hearings as directed by Council
• Assist as directed in work plan with
engagement efforts
Board/Commission Member Handbook 6 | P a g e
Membership & Guidelines
BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
Membership
• Members are selected by City Council.
• Membership consists of regular and student
members.
• All appointments have term limits.
• Subject to Open Meeting Law
• The City Manager appoints a staff liaison who
provides administrative support to the
board/commission as a body.
Guidelines:
• Boards and commissions are established to
advise the City Council
• Establishment and missions are outlined in City
code
• Boards and commissions are on-going
• Meetings of boards and commissions are public
meetings
• Commissions can establish committees and
working groups
Types of Members
There are two types of board and commission members:
Key Players
1 Chair
• Prepare agenda with Staff Liaison
• Lead meeting and facilitate discussion
• Facilitate development of annual work plan
• Maintain meeting decorum
• Consult with members regarding
attendance issues
• Encourage participation by all
members and the public
2 Vice-chair
• Supports the Chair as needed
• Performs the Chair duties if the
Chair is unavailable
3 Staff Liaison
• Support Chair in preparing agendas and
meeting materials
• Work with Chair to ensure bylaws are
followed
• Record and prepare meeting minutes
• Maintain records
• Provide technical expertise and
access to City resources
• Provide official notice of
meetings
• Relay information from City
Council
Regular
Members
Must be 18 years
of age or older
Must live in
Edina Voting member
Terms are
typically 3 years
in duration
Student
Members
Full time
sophmore, junior
or senior
Open enrolled at
Edina High
School
Non voting
member
Serve a one year
term
Board/Commission Member Handbook 7 | P a g e
Committees and Working Groups
Local governments often use a variety of Citizen Advisory groups, including Boards and Commissions, to
complete the mission of the City. Commissions may create Committees and Working Groups to assist them
with their work plan, however, committees and working groups work at the direction of the whole
board and commission.
Role of these groups:
• Study issues in greater depth and report findings
• Assist with community initiatives or events
Committee / Working Group Membership & Guidelines
COMMITTEES
Membership
• The commission selects at least two, but
less than a quorum of members
• All members must be members of the
commission
• The commission selects a chair or co-chairs
• Not subject to Open Meeting Law
Guidelines:
• Committees are established with the approval of the
commission to assist with a work plan initiative
• The commission has final recommendations on all
matters which the committee has been given
guidance
• Staff does not provide support to committees
• Meetings of Committees are not public meetings
Board/Commission
Committee Commission
Members only
Working
Group
Commission
Members
Public
Members
Board/Commission Member Handbook 8 | P a g e
WORKING GROUPS
Membership
• A Working Group is comprised of one or
more members of the
Board/Commission, but less than a
quorum of members and includes
members of the public.
• Commission selects the chair or co-chairs
• The chair will recommend to the
commission other working group
members who are outside of the
Board/Commission. The
board/commission appoints additional
working group members.
• Not subject to Open Meeting Law
Guidelines:
• Established with the approval of the commission
• Created when work requires more support
• Set timeline
• Notice is given to the public of the formation of the
working group providing a minimum of 14 days for
the public to express interest before members are
selected
• Commission has final recommendations on all
matters of the working group
• Staff liaison does not support working groups
• Meetings of working groups are not legally required
to be public
Boards and commissions should consider creating a working group when:
• The board or commission members need more support.
• The work requires a specific expertise or time.
• The work needs more community engagement to identify issues and concerns
Key Components of Working Groups
Establishment
• Prior to the establishment of a working group, the commission should complete a “greenprint” which is a
template for determining the need of the working group
• The “greenprint” should be approved by the commission at a regular scheduled meeting
Public Notice
• The commission must put out notice of the establishment of the working group (i.e. press release, city
communication channels)
• Notice should be given a minimum of 14 days so interested individuals can come forward to volunteer
Leadership
• The chair or co-chair positions should be held by voting commission members
• The commission appoints the chair or co-chairs
Size
• Working groups should not exceed 7 members (5 is preferable)
Time
• Working groups are established for a set time in order to complete a task set forth by the commission
Disbanding
• The commission can disband a working group at any regular meeting by a majority vote
• In the case that no member of the commission is available to serve, the working group will be automatically
disbanded
Work
• Working groups do not provide direction to the commission
• The commission has final recommendation on all matters
Board/Commission Member Handbook 9 | P a g e
Appointments and Chair Assignments
Appointments:
Committees and working groups work at the discretion of the entire commission so therefore the
commission makes the appointments of all members.
Resignation or Removal:
Committee and working group members may voluntarily resign by notifying the chair of the group. A
committee or working group member may be removed by a majority vote of the commission.
Chair Assignments:
Every committee and working group should have regular member(s) serving as the chair or co-chairs. The
commission approves the selection of chairs.
Chair Duties:
• Set the meeting schedule
• Prepare meeting agenda
• Maintain meeting decorum
• Recommend members (working group) and notify commission of changes in membership
• Report on the group’s activities to the regular commission meetings
• Ensure the group is working as directed by the commission
• Communicate to the Committee or Working Group any directives, questions or input from the
commission
Disbanding
Committees and working groups are not intended to be ongoing. These groups can be disbanded by a
majority vote of the commission or they will automatically disband in the following instances:
• Completion of work / charge
• No member of the commission is available to serve
Guiding Documents
1 City Code
• Outlines general roles of boards and commissions
• Identifies each board or commissions mission
• If there is discrepancy between city code and other guiding documents, city
code prevails
2 Work Plan
• Work approved and directed to the commission by Council
3 Member Handbook
• The guide you are reading right now!
Board/Commission Member Handbook 10 | P a g e
Annual Calendar
Annual work plans ensure that the Commissions’ initiatives are aligned with the City Council’s priorities.
Types of Meetings
1 Regular Meetings
• All Commissions have a regular meeting schedule; e.g., “7 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of
each month.”
• Regular meetings can be rescheduled if members and the public are given notice at a prior
meeting
• If notice at a prior meeting cannot be given for a schedule change, the regular meeting is
considered to have been cancelled and a special meeting called
• At the regular February meeting, each commission holds annual elections for Chair and
Vice Chair
2 Special Meetings
• A meeting held in addition to the regular meeting schedule
• A meeting scheduled without notice at a prior meeting
3 Joint Work Session Meeting
• Work sessions are held jointly with City Council
• Every Commission has at least one a year
• Goal is to review work plan and get direction if needed
**All meetings are audio recorded and some are televised.
Annual Work
Plan Calendar
January: Annual
Work Plan Begins
June-August:
Proposed work plan
created by
Commissions
September: Work
plans due!!
October: Work Plan
proposals presented
by each chair to
Council at Work
Session
November: Staff
present comments
to Council
December: Council
approves work plans
Board/Commission Member Handbook 11 | P a g e
Attendance
Attendance Policy:
There are two ways members fail to meet attendance requirements. Student members do not have an attendance
requirement.
1 75% Requirement
• If a member fails to meet the 75% attendance requirement, they will not be removed
from the Board or Commission until the end of the calendar year. At this time, if the
member wants to ask to be reappointed, they can request the Community Engagement
Coordinator to include this in the staff report.
2 3 Consecutive Meeting Requirement
• If a member fails to attend 3 consecutive meetings (4 for Planning Commission), they
will be removed from the Board or Commission effective immediately upon their 3rd
absence (4th for Planning Commission). Under this scenario, members cannot request
reappointment, but can reapply for the Board or Commission for the following year.
Counted vs Not Counted:
Board and commission meetings listed under “Counted towards Attendance” will be used to factor into the
board and commission attendance policy. “Not Counted towards Attendance” are not used in the formula.
*A rescheduled meeting occurs when members are notified of a new meeting date/time at a prior meeting. If shorter
notice is given, the previously scheduled meeting is considered to have been cancelled and replaced with special
meeting.
**A cancelled meeting can be done by the Chair, City Council, City Manager or by the majority of voting members.
Reasons a meeting may be cancelled include:
• Insufficient business
• Lack of quorum
• Conflict with a holiday or religious observance
• Inclement weather
• Community emergency
Attendance Sheets:
Attendance sheets are maintained by the Staff Liaison. Annually the City conducts an attendance assessment to
identify attendance issues.
Members Responsibility:
Since attendance impacts quorum and the ability for a board or commission to conduct business, it is important to
communicate conflicts in advance of the meeting. Members should contact the staff liaison if:
• They cannot attend a scheduled meeting
• They will be late or need to leave early
Counted
towards
Attendance
Regular
Meeting with
Quorum
Regular
Meeting
without
Quorum
Rescheduled
Meeting*
Canceled
Meeting**
Not Counted
towards
Attendance
Special
Meetings
Joint Work
Sessions
Subcommittee
or working
group
meetings
Board/Commission Member Handbook 12 | P a g e
Quorum and Voting
Voting:
• Regular members can participate in voting
• Student members are expected to participate in the discussion but do not vote and do not count
towards quorum
Quorum = A majority of seated voting members
• Quorum is required to vote on business items
• Meetings can be held without a quorum, however, members cannot “conduct business” by taking votes
on motions
Meeting Packet
Each meeting packet contains:
• Agenda
• Draft Minutes
• Reports and Recommendations
The packet posted in Novus Agenda Board web at least three days prior to your scheduled meeting. It is important
that you review the packet in advance to be prepared.
Agenda
Static Items (will always appear):
I. Roll Call
II. Approval of Meeting Agenda
III. Approval of Meeting Minutes
IV. Community Comment
V. Reports & Recommendations
VI. Chair & Member Comments
VII. Staff Comments
VIII. Adjournment
Additional Categories (in green):
I. Roll Call
II. Approval of Meeting Agenda
III. Approval of Meeting Minutes
IV. Special Presentations & Recognitions
V. Public Hearings
VI. Community Comment
VII. Reports & Recommendations
VIII. Chair & Member Comments
IX. Staff Comments
X. Adjournment
Community Comment:
• Residents can speak during community comment on any topic that is NOT already on the current agenda.
• Members should not engage in direct debate or dialogue with the resident outside of thanking them for the
comment or noting when the item might be discussed by the BC in the future.
• Commissions should not take action from the content of the community commenter.
• Commenters must provide their name and address before speaking.
• Commenters have 3 minutes to speak.
Board/Commission Member Handbook 13 | P a g e
Minutes
Minutes are recorded at each Board or Commission meeting. Commissions may have an additional city staff person in
attendance that supports the liaison with this particular task.
Meeting minutes’ document actions taken at a meeting, not discussion.
Meeting minutes will include:
• Meeting name including the date, place and
time
• Members in attendance
• Approval of previous meeting minutes and
corrections, if any
• Motions made (exact wording of the motion,
who made the motion, seconded the
motion, and the result of the vote)
• Reports (can use bulleted lists)
• Other actions
Meeting minutes will NOT include:
• What was said
• Who said it
Each meeting packet will contain a draft of the minutes from the previous meeting. After the minutes are approved,
your City Staff Liaison will submit the approved minutes for publication on the City’s website and to City Council for
receipt. This is an important channel of communication to City Council from the Commissions.
Robert’s Rules of Order
Edina Boards and Commissions use Robert’s Rules of Order to transact business through motions. Robert’s
Rules of Order will prevail in the event of a procedural conflict.
General Principles:
• Only one subject (main motion) is before the group at one time.
• Negative motions are generally not permitted; phrase the motion as a positive action. If the BC
does not want to take action, the motion should be voted down.
• Only one member speaks at a time. Each speaker should first be recognized by the Chair. The
maker of a motion is usually allowed to speak first and last.
• Each item is presented for full debate. Each member speaks once until all members have had an
opportunity to speak.
• All members have equal rights. The rights of the minority are protected and heard, but the will of
the majority prevails.
Steps to a motion:
• Member addresses the Chair and the Chair recognizes the member.
• Member states motion “I move to adopt the policy.”
• Another member seconds the motion “I second.”
• Chair repeats the motion to the BC.
• Motion is discussed by the group.
• Members can make subsidiary motions that assist the group in disposing of the main motion, “I
move to table this discussion to the next meeting.”
• Members vote on the subsidiary motion.
• If applicable, members vote on the main motion.
• Chair announces the results.
Board/Commission Member Handbook 14 | P a g e
Open Meeting Law
Why it exists:
• Prohibits actions from being taken at a secret meeting, where it is impossible for the interested
public to become fully informed concerning decisions of public bodies or to detect improper
influences.
• Ensures the public’s right to be informed.
• Afford the public an opportunity to present its views to the public body.
To Comply:
• Provide public notice of the meeting a minimum of three days in advance.
• Hold meetings in public places.
Violation of Open Meeting Law:
There is a violation of open meeting law if there is discussion of business between quorums of members
outside of a publicly noticed meeting. Serial communication defined below is an open meeting law violation.
Serial Communication:
Serial communication is communication between Board and Commission members that lead to a
concurrence among the majority of the members. Serial communication may involve a series of
communications (example: email, face-to-face, text) with each communication involving less than a quorum of
the Board or Commission, but when taken as a whole, involve a majority of the Board or Commission.
Ensure Compliance:
• Email communication intended for the group to your Staff Liaison for distribution.
• Members should not “reply all” to group messages.
• Members should not blind copy other members.
Committees and Working Groups:
While Committees and Working Groups are not covered under the Open Meeting Law, some Committee
or Working Group meetings may be designated as public meetings by the City Council, or the Commission
based on potential public interest in the topic.
Communication with City Council
When presenting recommendations to City Council it is essential that Board and Commission members keep
the following in mind:
• Recommendations should be in written form.
• Ideas should be expressed in clear and concise language.
• Proposed solutions should be viable and cost-effective.
• Recommendations should identify reasons for the changes suggested.
• Advice should reflect the views of a consensus or a majority of Board and Commission members.
Role of Staff Liaison. One of the primary roles of the Staff Liaison is to assist in delivering information from the
City Council to, and vice versa. It is the responsibility of the Staff Liaison to communicate the guidance of their Board
and Commission completely and impartially.
Board/Commission Member Handbook 15 | P a g e
Communication Tools. Boards and Commissions have five primary tools for communication with the City
Council. Since Council time is limited and it is important that all members of the Council receive the information, it is
imperative that communication is done through these formal channels. The table below outlines each tool and its
intended purpose:
1 Meeting Minutes
• Meeting minutes are intended to give members a record of Board and Commission
proceedings. After the minutes are approved, they are included as part of the upcoming
Council packet. Council members are very diligent about reading Board and Commission
minutes.
2 Joint Work Session
• Joint work sessions are held at least once a year. This is an opportunity to update the
Council on the Commission’s work plan and to get Council feedback on the progress to
date.
3 Annual Work Plan
• The annual work plan process enables Commissions to share their goals for the
upcoming year. The Council reviews those goals and other ideas before giving final
direction on Commission priorities.
• Council will assign each work plan item a Council Charge
4 Staff Reports
• Staff reports are prepared by staff to forward a regulatory item or other goal from the
Commission’s approved work plan to a Council meeting for approval or direction. It is
staff’s responsibility to outline the Commission's recommendation, as well as staff
recommendations, and to highlight any important differences between the two.
5 Advisory Communication
• Advisory communication is prepared by the Commission members under the direction
of the Commission. This template should be used when the Commission wants to give
input on an issue but due to timing or the nature of the issue, meeting minutes are
deemed insufficient. Advisory communications should be used if the Commission wishes
to advise the Council on a topic not included on their approved work plan.
Annual Work Plan
Council Charge:
• The Council Charge is a guide for Council to provide clear and specific direction to Boards and
Commissions on.
• Council Charge is given in instances when Council tasks a board or commission with an initiative.
• City staff ensures Council identifies the charge level of the task.
• The Council Charge concept is implemented in Board and Commission work plans.
Board/Commission Member Handbook 16 | P a g e
Charge 1: Study &
Report
2: Review &
Comment
3: Review &
Recommend
4: Review &
Decide
Commission
Role
Study a specific issue
or event and report
its findings to Council
Review a specific
policy issue and staff
will seek comments
from each individual
member of the group
to pass on to Council
Review a specific
policy issue and
provide a
recommendation on
the issue to Council
Study, review and
decide on an issue.
The Decision will be
the City’s official
position on the matter
unless the issue is
formally reversed by
Council
Commission
Vote
No vote is taken by
the commission
No vote is taken by
the commission
A majority vote is
required
A majority vote is
required
Commission
Recommendation
No official
recommendation is
provided to Council
No official
recommendation is
provided to Council
An official
recommendation is
provided to Council
No official
recommendation is
provided to Council
Report
Type
Required: Advisory
Communication &
Staff Report
Required: Staff Report
Required: Staff Report
Optional: Advisory
Communication
None
Work Plan Approval Process:
Approving work plans is a three-part process. Work plans development starts in the summer months and
ends in December.
1 Chair Presents Proposed Work Plan
• Annual work session meeting (typically October)
• Meeting Purpose: Chair to present proposed work plan and allow Council to ask clarifying
questions from the chair
2 Staff Presents Proposed Work Plan
• Annual work session meeting (typically November)
• Meeting Purpose: City staff (City Manager Comments) will present proposed work plans along
with recommended changes
3 Council Review and Final Approval
• Annual City Council meeting (typically first meeting in December)
• City staff will incorporate council changes from previous meeting and present proposed work
plans for approval
Board/Commission Member Handbook 17 | P a g e
Communication with the Public
We want members to promote their Board and Commission’s work with the public.
Members are asked to take care when conveying:
• Any decisions of the Board or Commission based on the information shared and resulting discussion
of the group during open meetings.
Conflict of Interest
Definition: any member who has a financial interest in, or who may receive a financial benefit as a result of, any BC
action or if there is potential for the appearance of conflict of interest.
Members who have a conflict of interest must:
• Disclose the conflict of interest to the group, and
• Abstain from discussing or voting on the matter.
Gifts
• Members may not receive gifts from any “interested person” in conjunction with their BC duties.
• BC can recommend acceptance of general gifts through the City’s donation policy.
Respectful Behavior
Members should strive to:
• Treat people with courtesy, politeness and kindness.
• Encourage others to express their opinions and ideas.
• Listen to what others have to say.
• Use the ideas of others to improve decisions and outcomes.
• Recognize and respect differences.
Members should avoid:
• Speaking over or cutting off another individual’s comments.
• Insulting, disparaging or putting down people or their ideas.
• Bullying other members by displaying a pattern of belittling, demeaning, judging or patronizing comments.
Violence or the threat of violence will not be tolerated.
The Chair or the Staff Liaison can call for the removal of any anyone who threatens or commits an act of
violence.
Board/Commission Member Handbook 18 | P a g e
Code of Ethics
• I have been entrusted by the Edina City Council to perform my duties and services as a volunteer Board
or Commission Member in manner that is always in the best interests of the community of Edina.
• While honest differences of opinion may develop, I will work harmoniously with other Board or
Commission members to assure residents the services they require.
• I will invite all residents to express their opinions so I may be properly informed prior to making my
decisions. I will make them based solely upon the facts available to me. I will support the final decision of
the Board or Commission.
• I must devote the time, study and thought necessary to carry out my duties.
• I understand that the Board or Commission members recommend policies, the City Council establishes
policies and the staff is responsible for administering the policies of the City Council.
• I understand that as a Board or Commission Member, I have no authority outside of the proper meeting
of the Board/Commission.
• I understand that all Board/Commission meetings shall be open to the public, except as provided by law.
• I understand that it is my duty as a Board or Commission member to treat all residents, staff and fellow
Board and Commission members in a respectful and professional manner at all times.
• I will withdraw from discussions and decision-making actions in cases where I have a conflict of interest
and I will disclose those conflicts of interest when they arise.
Novus Boardview
Packets are created electronically by each Board and Commission’s staff liaison. Liaisons complete packets
three business days prior to the regular scheduled meeting. Members are asked to review meeting packets in
advance using the Novus Boardview Portal.
URL: Edina.novusagenda.com/boardweb
Username: first letter of first name and full last name
Password: New Members should receive a password reset email.
Contact MJ Lamon, if you have questions or forgot your password.
952-826-0360
mlamon@edinamn.gov
Date: May 12, 2021 Agenda Item #: V.A.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Report and Recommendation
From:Perry Vetter, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:2021 Work Plan Updates Discussion
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Provide available updates to the 2021 Parks and Recreation Commission Work Plan. Staff recommends also
using this meeting discussion as preparation for the May 18, 2021 joint work session with the Edina City
Council.
INTRODUCTION:
Discuss and provide any updates to the 2021 Work Plan.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
2021 PARC Work Plan
Approved by Council December 1, 2020 [Do not modify fields except progress reports]
Commission: Parks & Recreation Commission
2021 Annual Work Plan
Initiative #1 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☒ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Review and comment on proposed plan to identify barriers for participation and reach
communities of color through different modes and feedback.
Deliverable
Comment on the
plan
Leads
Strother (Lead), Miller,
McAwley
Target
Completion Date
Q4 2021
Budget Required: 2021 department funds are available to support various marketing materials to promote the events and opportunities to gather feedback.
Staff Support Required: Coordinate with R&E Coordinator.
Progress Q1: Parks and Recreation staff are working with the Race and Equity Coordinator to provide a draft plan for commission review.
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Initiative #2 Initiative Type ☐ Project ☒ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☒ 4 (Review & Decide)
Create presentation to share information about Parks and Recreation facilities,
services, and systems with up to six community groups.
Deliverable
Presentation for
community groups and
summary report to
council
Leads
Nelson (Lead), Good,
Haas, Nahlovsky (S), Ites
Target
Completion Date:
Q4 2021
Budget Required: 2021 department funds are available to support various marketing materials to promote the events and opportunities to gather feedback.
Presentations, info sheets, marketing materials.
Staff Support Required: Communications support required for informational press kit, materials for presentations either for in person or electronic.
Communications made aware.
Progress Q1: Commissioners have reviewed a presentation outline that can be customized to target groups and also broad topical areas. They are discussing
one of the six sessions would be virtual to manage through the pandemic restrictions and also to encourage equity in participation. The virtual session may
follow the Town Talk format. Currently working on presentation content.
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Approved by Council December 1, 2020 [Do not modify fields except progress reports]
Initiative #3 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☒ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Report and provide recommendations on alternative funding sources for park
related improvements including parks, facilities, and enterprise upgrades.
Deliverable
Report to City Council
Leads
McAwley (Lead), Haas,
Willette, Ites
Target
Completion Date
Q4 2021
Budget Required: Funds not required.
Staff Support Required: None.
Progress Q1: Group will continue to review which funding alternative methods would be applied to each park, facility or enterprise area. Each member will be
assigned an area of research to determine if that method is viable for Edina. Members will also be reviewing research done in other communities through
National Recreation and Parks Association publications.
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Initiative #4 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☒ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Study and report on options to categorize underutilized park amenities/areas and
identify park amenity needs.
Deliverable
Report to Parks and
Recreation
Department
Leads
Doscotch (Lead), Good,
McAwley, Nelson
Target
Completion Date
Q4 2021
Budget Required: Funds not required.
Staff Support Required: Staff liaison.
Progress Q1: Group has met and discussed the relationship of this work group to initiative #5 and currently developing a timeline for completion,
deliverables, assignment or responsibilities and set next meetings.
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Approved by Council December 1, 2020 [Do not modify fields except progress reports]
Initiative #5 Initiative Type ☐ Project ☒ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☒ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Study and report evaluating options for determining benchmarks (park
amenities, operations, service areas) the commission started studying
in 2020.
Deliverable
Report to Parks and Recreation
Department.
Leads
Good (Lead), Sorem (S),
Mork (S), Doscotch
Target Completion Date
Q4 2021
Budget Required: Funds not required.
Staff Support Required: Staff liaison.
Progress Q1: Group has collected benchmark data as part of 2020 work plan. Has used both internal Edina and NRPA benchmarking and best practices.
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Parking Lot: (These items have been considered by the BC, but not proposed as part of this year’s work plan. If the BC decides they would like to
work on them in the current year, it would need to be approved by Council.)
Date: May 12, 2021 Agenda Item #: VII.A.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:City Council Updates April 20 and May 4, 2021 Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None, informational only.
INTRODUCTION:
City Council Updates
By Scott Neal
April 20, 2021
Proclaimed April 30, 2021 as Arbor Day
May 4, 2021
Nothing to report
Date: May 12, 2021 Agenda Item #: VII.B.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Perry Vetter, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:Informational Items Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None, informational only.
INTRODUCTION:
Attached are informational items of note for the May meeting.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Informational Items - May 2021
May 12, 2021
Park and Recreation Commission
Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Informational Items
Information / Background:
Arbor Day Activities
• City Forester Luther Overholt planted ten new trees at Fred Richards Park on Friday April 30 in
celebration of Arbor Day.
Braemar Arena
• Braemar Arena recently hosted the Braemar City of Lakes Figure Skating Club ice show.
Approximately 80 skaters participated. Several modifications on participation and attendance were
implemented due to Covid-19 protocols.
Braemar Sports Dome
• The sports dome was taken down on Friday April 30. Staff from the Arena, Parks Maintenance and
Public Works assisted. The field will be scheduled for association use for the summer season until
the dome is reinstalled later this fall.
Centennial Lakes Park
• The putting course and paddleboats opened on May 1. The first day of operations was very
successful with temps in the mid 80’s for opening day.
Community Garden
• The community garden opens May 8, with upgraded features including timbers that separate the
garden plots from the access paths. The gardens were closed in 2020 due to a regional sewer
project.
Highlands Park
• Crowncastle, the contractor overseeing the cell tower installation indicates their subcontractor will
remobilize to the site on Monday, May 4 and anticipates the project will be completed around May
30.
STAFF REPORT Page 2
Local Option Sales Tax Submission
• Mayor Hovland and City Manager Scott Neil testified at the MN House Property Tax Committee on
March 4, 2021 in support of the LOST proposal. The provision has been included in both the House
and Senate Omnibus Tax Bill.
New Park Signs
• Park maintenance staff has installed new park signs at Duggan Park and Fred Richards Park.
New Recreation Software
• A new software registration system will be implemented this coming fall for the Parks and
Recreation Department. The system will make its debut with the fall/winter activities directory.
Restrooms
• The remaining outdoor seasonal restrooms opened this week.
Date: May 12, 2021 Agenda Item #: VII.C.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Perry Vetter, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:Upcoming Meetings and Events Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None, informational only.
INTRODUCTION:
Upcoming meetings and events.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Upcoming 2021 Meetings and Events
May 12, 2021
Park and Recreation Commission
Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Upcoming 2021 Meetings and Events
Date Meeting Time Location
*Wed. May 12 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm Virtual
Tues. May 18 Commission Work Session w/ City Council 5:30 pm Virtual
Tues. June 8 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm Virtual
TBD Chair and Liaison Annual Morning Meeting 7:00 am TBD
July 1 Quarter 2 Work Plan Progress Due - -
Tues. July 13 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
Tues. Aug. 10 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
Tues. Sept. 14 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
Oct. 1 Quarter 3 Work Plan Progress Due - -
Oct. 5 2022 Work Plan Review w/ Council (Chair only) 5:30 pm TBD
Tues. Oct. 12 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
Tues. Nov. 9 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
Tues. Dec. 14 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
TBD Commission Member Annual Reception - TBD
* Rescheduled due to Edina School District Election