HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-05-10 Parks & Rec Comm PacketAgenda
Parks and Recreation Commission
City Of Edina, Minnesota
Braemar Golf Course - 6364 John Harris Dr.
Tuesday, May 10, 2022
7:00 PM
I.Call To Order
II.Roll Call
III.Approval Of Meeting Agenda
IV.Approval Of Meeting Minutes
A.Minutes: Parks & Recreation Commission, April 12, 2022
V.Community Comment
During "Community Comment," the Board/Commission will invite residents to share relevant issues
or concerns. Individuals must limit their comments to three minutes. The Chair may limit the
number of speakers on the same issue in the interest of time and topic. Generally speaking, items
that are elsewhere on tonight's agenda may not be addressed during Community Comment.
Individuals should not expect the Chair or Board/Commission Members to respond to their
comments tonight. Instead, the Board/Commission might refer the matter to sta% for
consideration at a future meeting.
VI.Reports/Recommendations
A.Arts Programming Update
B.Proposed Braemar Park Master Plan Amendments and Special
Project Request for Braemar Ice Arena Expansion
VII.Chair And Member Comments
VIII.Sta/ Comments
A.Informational Items
B.Upcoming 2022 Meetings and Events
IX.Adjournment
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 ampli2cation, an
interpreter, large-print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861
72 hours in advance of the meeting.
Date: May 10, 2022 Agenda Item #: IV.A.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Minutes
From:Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:Minutes: Parks & Recreation Commission, April 12,
2022
Action
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve minutes from the April 12, 2022 Parks & Recreation Commission meeting.
INTRODUCTION:
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Minutes: Parks & Recreation Commission April 12, 2022
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date: x/xx/2022
Minutes
City of Edina, Minnesota
Edina Parks & Recreation Commission
BRAEMAR GOLF COURSE
April 12, 2022
7 p.m.
I. Call to Order
Chair Ites called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.
II. Roll Call
Answering roll call were Commissioners Doscotch, Good, Haas, Ites, Pfuhl, Spanhake, Weaver,
Welsh, Strother and Student Commissioner Presthus
Absent: Student Commissioner Jha
Staff present: Staff Liaison Perry Vetter, Assistant Director Parks & Natural Resources Tom Swenson,
Assistant Director Recreation & Facilities Tracy Petersen, General Manager Braemar Arena/Field
Chad Eischens and Administrative Coordinator Janet Canton
III. Approval of Meeting Agenda
Motion made by Weaver to approve the meeting agenda. Motion seconded by Good. Motion
carried.
IV. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Motion made by Pfuhl to approve the March 8, 2022 minutes. Motion seconded by Haas.
Motion carried.
V. Community Comment
Jack Kemme, 6566 France Avenue South, addressed the commission on Rosland Park and his
opposition to the proposed changes.
Jerry Kraus, 6566 France Avenue South, addressed the commission on Fire Station II and a proposed
300 vehicle parking ramp at Rosland Park indicating his opposition to the changes.
Laura Davis, 6921 Southdale Road, addressed the commission regarding Rosland Park and her
opposition to the proposed changes.
Bob Kojetin, 5068 William Avenue, addressed the commission about the Veterans Memorial Board
kiosk addition and wheelchair access.
Staff commented on the Rosland Park/Fire Station project.
VI. Reports/Recommendations
A. Braemar Ice Arena/Braemar Field Program and Facility Update
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date: x/xx/2022
General Manager, Chad Eischens provided an update and overview of programs and events at
Braemar Ice Arena/Braemar Field. He answered Commission questions.
Chair Ites thanked Mr. Eischens for the update.
B. Proposed Braemar Park Master Plan Amendments and Special Project Request for
Braemar Ice Arena Expansion
Staff Liaison Vetter reviewed the proposed Braemar Park Master Plan amendments and special project
request for the Braemar Ice Arena expansion.
Commissioners asked questions regarding the fourth sheet of ice estimate, expansion costs, parking,
operating expenses, and what kind of recommendation is needed from the Parks & Recreation
Commission.
C. 2022 Work Plan
Staff Liaison Vetter provided an update on the 2022 Work Plan and asked commissioners for any
updates on the six initiatives.
Initiative #1 – Present Information about Parks and Recreation Facilities, Services, and Systems
with up to Six Community Groups. Commissioner Good noted this is a follow-up to an initiative
from 2021. The group identified structured information around four areas: parks, parks & recreation
programs, enterprise facilities and funding. Commissioner Good provided an update.
Initiative #2 – Report and provide recommendations on alternative funding sources for park
related improvements including parks, facilities, and enterprise upgrades. Chair Ites indicated this
group has not met yet. He noted he will contact the group members.
Initiative #3 – Research Opportunities to Expand Volunteer Assistance for Park Initiatives.
Commissioner Strother indicated she did not have anything to update.
Initiative #4 – Provide Support with Educational Opportunities for the Local Option Sales Tax
in the Community as Needed. Chair Ites indicated he went to a City Council workshop on April 5
and listened to a presentation by Rapp Strategies. He reviewed the community survey comments that
were taken by Rapp Strategies. Staff Liaison Vetter provided an update on the survey.
Initiative #5 – Review and Comment on Amendments to the Park Ordinances Being
Recommended by Staff for Update. Commissioner Strother informed the commission the group is
currently waiting on the draft.
Initiative #6 – Review and Comment on the Proposed Grandview Plan. Commissioner Haas
indicated the HRA had a meeting and were given updates on the pedestrian bridge and sidewalks. The
HRA has selected an artist for the bridge and are going through designs. Staff, he thought was getting
contracts ready to sell the two parcels next to the restaurant and housing development.
VII. Chair and Member Comments
Commissioners commented on the following:
Draft Minutes☒
Approved Minutes☐
Approved Date: x/xx/2022
Proposed local option sales tax in the Legislature
Rosland Park community comments
Pedestrian crossing warning signs going into/out of the parks in the city
VIII. Staff Comments
A. Informational Items
Staff Liaison Vetter gave the following updates:
Braemar Arena/Field
Centennial Lakes Park
Braemar Golf/Dome
Art Center
Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail
Summer Hiring
B. Upcoming 2022 Meetings and Events
Staff Liaison Vetter informed the commission of upcoming 2022 meetings and events.
IX. Adjournment
Motion made by Good to adjourn the April 12, 2022 meeting at 8:41p.m. Motion seconded by
Haas. Meeting adjourned.
Date: May 10, 2022 Agenda Item #: VI.A.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Report and Recommendation
From:Tracy Petersen, Assistant Director-Recreation &
Facilities Item Activity:
Subject:Arts Programming Update Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None, informational only.
INTRODUCTION:
Recreation Supervisor, Laura Fulton, will provide an update on arts programming.
Date: May 10, 2022 Agenda Item #: VI.B.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Report and Recommendation
From:Perry Vetter, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:Proposed Braemar Park Master Plan Amendments
and Special Project Request for Braemar Ice Arena
Expansion
Action
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Staff recommends receiving discussing the attached information and at the May 10, 2022 meeting. At that time if
supported, make a recommendation to include the amendments to the Braemar Park Master Plan to the Edina
City Council.
INTRODUCTION:
At 500 acres, Braemar Park is the largest recreational space in the City of Edina. It is home to Braemar Golf
Course, Braemar Golf Dome, Braemar Arena, Braemar Sports Dome and Field, and Courtney Fields. The
Braemar Park Master Plan Improvements includes improving the connectivity of trail systems, access, and
wayfinding to park amenities and facilities; providing separated use trail systems to accommodate walkers,
mountain bikers and cross-country skiers; identifying new site improvements and recreational amenities to
enhance existing facilities; developing and improving the quality of natural resources in the park; incorporating
sustainable site improvements to promote land water resources; and investing in facility infrastructure are goals of
the master plan. Staff is recommending amending the plan in response to infrastructure needs and a special project
request.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Braemar Park Master Plan Amendments Staff Report
Braemar Ice Arena Expansion Operational Analysis
Braemar Park Master Plan
May 10, 2022
Parks & Recreation Commission
Perry Vetter, Parks and Recreation Director, Tracy Petersen, Assistant Director of Recreation,
Chad Eischens, Braemar Arena and Field General Manager
Proposed Braemar Park Master Plan Amendments and Special Project Request for Braemar Ice
Arena Expansion
Information / Background:
At 500 acres, Braemar Park is the largest recreational space in the City of Edina. It is home to Braemar Golf
Course, Braemar Golf Dome, Braemar Arena, Braemar Sports Dome and Field, and Courtney Fields. The
Braemar Park Master Plan Improvements includes improving the connectivity of trail systems, access, and
wayfinding to park amenities and facilities; providing separated use trail systems to accommodate walkers,
mountain bikers and cross-country skiers; identifying new site improvements and recreational amenities to
enhance existing facilities; developing and improving the quality of natural resources in the park;
incorporating sustainable site improvements to promote land water resources; and investing in facility
infrastructure are goals of the master plan.
Amendments to the Braemar Park Master Plan
The current Braemar Park Master Plan was adopted by the Edina City Council in 2018. However, the
process to develop the plan began much earlier and included comprehensive engagement and feedback.
Interview team members included Parks & Recreation Commissioners; Edina residents; Edina Nordic Ski
Coach; Edina High School Mountain Bike Club; Minnesota Off Road Cyclist; and staff members. The firm SRF
was selected by the interview team and included Applied Ecological Services for natural resources
stewardship and Trail Source LLC for trail planning to complete the master plan.
Stakeholder interviews and the inventory and analysis were completed in June, 2017. The Parks &
Recreation Commission and City Council provided feedback in July and the first community open house was
held on July 26, 2017. The first concepts were presented to staff, the Parks & Recreation Commission and
the City Council in September and the second community open house was held on September 18, 2017.
Based on all feedback received, the draft concepts were combined into one master plan concept and a third
community open house was held on October. 23, 2017. More modifications were made based on additional
feedback and a final master plan was completed on December 4, 2017.
As part of the community engagement for the project, three online surveys were conducted along with a
Speak Up Edina (now Better Together Edina) discussion. The city maintained a project website and provided
regular updates and invitations via social media and email.
STAFF REPORT Page 2
The final Braemar Park Master Plan recommendation was presented to the Parks & Recreation Commission
on December. 12, 2017. The commission reviewed and recommended the plan. The commission questioned
the availability of funding and as well as possible stages for implementation of the master plan. The Edina
City Council supported the Parks and Recreation Commission recommendation and adopted the Braemar
Park Master Plan on January 3, 2018.
Staff is recommending making amendments to the master plan. These amendments do not necessitate
reopening to review any portions of the adopted plan that went through a wide variety of input and analysis.
The plan remains valid, the improvements needed, and are still desired by the community. The following
amendment requests are enterprise related and have a finite impact to the adopted plan or are called for in
other official guidance.
Proposed Braemar Park Master Plan Amendments:
I. Special Project Request for Braemar Ice Arena Expansion
II. Arena Complex Capital Infrastructure
III. Facility Study and Revenue Needs Assessments for Golf Clubhouse and Golf Dome (non-
referendum funded amendment)
These amendments are described in further detail in the remaining parts of this staff report.
If the council continues to target expansion and infrastructure as potential sources of funding, that will be
left to Edina voters to determine if they are approved. The recommendation is to review the following
items and recommend amendments to the existing plan as described in this report.
I. Special Project Request for Braemar Ice Arena Expansion
Last fall a group of residents initiated a special project proposal for the expansion of Braemar Ice Arena to
add a fourth sheet of indoor ice. Braemar Arena currently operates three indoor ice sheets year-round
(West Rink, East Rink and South Rink) as well as an outdoor sheet (Backyard Rink) that is also refrigerated
during winter months.
The sport of hockey and skating are rich with tradition in Edina. Braemar Arena is home to a variety of
dedicated user groups such as the Braemar City of Lakes Figure Skating Club, Breakaway Academy, Edina
High School, the Edina Hockey Association, many other dedicated users, and also two partners in General
Sports and the Velocity Training Center.
The City has many roles and responsibilities to its defined athletic associations. The first responsibility is to
act as a liaison between the associations and the City to assist associations in providing program offerings
that are desirable, fair and equitable to all participants. The second is to provide access to city-owned facility
space and priority access to District-owned facility space. The City has a responsibility to try to meet space
needs for the community and recognized athletic associations, such as the Edina Hockey Association. By
defining ice demand in the community and what expansion can provide, this is an important step in fulfilling
the City’s role in meeting its responsibility to associations for youth sports.
Under the initial (figure 1) idea, one sheet of ice would be demolished, and two new sheets would be
constructed, along with a covered walkway to the existing West rink and a parking deck. The building lobby
would be expanded, as would the drive lane, drop-off area and outdoor programming space. A concept
created for the city is below.
STAFF REPORT Page 3
Figure 1
During the review of the special request, Park and Recreation Commissioners were generally supportive of
the idea and investing in further study. This first area of study committed to was an operational analysis to
understand how a fourth sheet of ice would impact the existing arena operating budget. Staff contracted that
analysis to Ballard*King & Associates to objectively analyze this request. Ballard*King (BK) is a leading
recreation consulting firm that specializes in feasibility studies, master plans, operational audits and
assessments for recreation, sports and wellness facilities. Staff has received that analysis and it is attached as
supplemental information for this item.
Operational Analysis Summary
BK initially conducted a series of stakeholder meetings with several current ice user groups and arena staff.
This allowed a better understanding of current use, unmet demand, and future potential to support
expansion. BK interviewed Showcase Hockey, Edina Youth Hockey Association, Braemar City of Lakes
Figure Skating, Breakaway Academy, Edina High School, General Sports, and Hockey Finder. Through this
operational analysis a list of recommendations was generated for staff consideration.
BK found that there is a vast amount of unmet demand by core stakeholder user groups primarily in winter
months. Stakeholders expressed frustration that they must travel to and purchase ice time at rinks outside
of Edina and often times great distance at early or late times of the day. That unmet demand would be
reduced by this request to expand the arena and the financial result is that it would be a net positive to the
arena budget. To note, the revenue estimates provided for in the analysis are conservatively based on ice
demand expressed by the stakeholder interviews only. There would be remaining ice time available for
additional sales to groups outside of those interviewed that has the potential to additionally improve the
arena financial position.
The following charts summarize the financial feasibility projections found in the BK analysis. Figure 2
identifies the financial feasibility using revenue and expenses for adding a fourth sheet of ice. There are two
scenarios including one identifying a base level of expenses and the other is a more conservative level of
expenses which could be viewed as a high or worst-case scenario. That feasibility model indicates that a
STAFF REPORT Page 4
fourth sheet of ice has the potential to bring in a range of net revenue of $109,000 to $245,000 dollars
annually.
Figure 3 then applies those net revenue scenarios to the overall operating budget of Braemar Ice Arena.
Those net revenue scenarios show that the addition of a fourth sheet of ice improves the financial position
of the overall budget. As noted in the report these revenue projections are based only on additional ice
rentals from the stakeholders interviewed and there is additional opportunity to increase revenue potential with outside user groups. These projects do not factor in reduced spending expected with repair and
replacement of existing capital that would be expected.
The revenue summary feasibility phase of this study concludes that a fourth sheet of ice will operate on a
solvent basis and generate enough revenue to provide support of the Braemar Ice Arena budget. It is
expected that the revenues will increase about 3% to 5% over the first 4-5 years before leveling off. The
$(496,676)
$(387,636)
$(254,036)
$(600,000)
$(400,000)
$(200,000)
$-
Projected Arena Operating Budget Impact with Expansion
Existing Budget 2022 Conservative Base Projection
$428,200
$292,100
$537,240 $537,240
$109,040
$245,100
$-
$200,000
$400,000
$600,000
Conservative Base Projection
Feasibility Budget of Fourth Ice Sheet
Expenses Revenue Net Revenue
Figure 2
Figure 3
STAFF REPORT Page 5
increase can be attributed to gaining more market share, growth in off-season opportunities, and ice rental
rate increases. Growth in revenue after the fifth year will likely come only from any increases in rental fees
rates as the schedule reaches a saturation point.
Land use, planning and other expansion implications
The expansion proposal, like any other land use application, would be reviewed to ensure the necessary
planning and land use regulations are reviewed. Until an actual site plan proposal is developed the extent of
analysis and required approvals are unknown. There is the potential for land use approvals in some or all of
these typical areas: site plan review if 10% of Sq Ft expansion occurs not inclusive of parking enhancements,
setback requirements, parking study, sign ordinance, steep slope study, conservation study, watershed
district review, height study and traffic implications. Further analysis on an actual architectural proposal
would better define the required process for review. Amending the master plan with these identified
requests does not bypass the need for land use approvals.
Facility design, amenities and building components
The addition of a fourth sheet of ice and renovation of existing infrastructure would provide an opportunity
to review important factors such as sustainability and the implications to the City’s climate action goals, its
commitment to public art and ability to engage underrepresented members of the Edina community. If the
expansion request is recommended by the Edina Parks and Recreation Commission and adopted by the
Edina City Council, a team made up of users, commissioners and staff would be established to guide design
and needs of the facility.
II. Arena Complex Capital Infrastructure
Braemar Arena is one of the busiest ice arenas in the entire state; approximately 500,000 annual visits are
recorded from residents of 158 Minnesota communities, 12 states and one other country. As such the
infrastructure and subsequent replacement or repair have not kept up to the demands and needs of users.
An example of needed projects include:
• Dasher board and glass safety system
replacements
• Flooring replacements
• Ice Refrigeration system and delivery
replacements
• Heat and boiler replacements for all rinks
• Electrical system replacements for all rinks
• Window and roofing replacements and
repairs
• Hot water system replacements
• Domestic water distribution system
replacements
• Sanitary system and fixture replacements
• Locker room rehabilitation
• Restroom rehabilitation
• Permafrost removal in east rink
• Energy efficiency improvements and
insulation
• ADA route and walkway improvements
• ADA door and access improvements
• ADA restroom improvements
• ADA viewing and seating improvements
• Waterproofing and moisture control
• Fire protection and security improvement
At this time Braemar Arena has approximately $13.5M of unfunded and unscheduled capital improvement
needs as listed in the prior 2021-2026 CIP. These items have been listed in the City of Edina Capital
Improvement Program for the last two capital budget cycles. Renovation and replacement of these items will
have a net positive impact on the arena operating budget as a vast majority of annual expenses are to repair
and replace infrastructure, or newer systems will be more efficient. The improvements are currently listed
as part of the local option sales tax referendum for 2022. These improvements are alluded to, but not
specifically included in the Braemar Park Master Plan.
STAFF REPORT Page 6
III. Financing Decision for City Council
The Edina City Council adopted a resolution of support for the Braemar Park Master Plan (and Fred
Richards Park Master Plan) to be considered by the 2020 MN Legislature for the use of Local Option Sales
Tax funding for implementation of these improvements. This process requires approval by the MN
Legislature and the Governor in order to place the decision to implement a sales tax on the next general
election ballot for referendum vote. That request was not addressed in 2020 due to the Covid-10 pandemic
shortened session and was resubmitted in 2021 where it was approved in the tax bill by the legislature and
signed by the Governor allowing the referendum question to proceed. In early 2022, the City Council
amended the request to include a potential arena expansion. That request is part of the current legislative
process.
Braemar Park Master Plan
Authorized by MN
Legislature and Governor
for November Referendum
(2021 Session)
Requested of MN
Legislature and Governor
for November Referendum
(2022 Session)
Braemar Park Improvements $8,100,000
Braemar Ice Arena Infrastructure & ADA* $13,500,000
Braemar Ice Arena Expansion* $25,300,000
Subtotal $21,600,000 $25,300,000
* Proposed amendments to Braemar Park Master Plan
If the requested amendments to the Braemar Park Master Plan are included and the legislative process is
successful, the requested funding for Braemar Park will total $46.9M. Separately, the Fred Richards Park
Master Plan request is authorized at $17.7M for a total local options sales tax request of $64.6M. The sales
tax, proposed at 50 cents per $100 taxable purchase in Edina, would raise an estimated $4 million a year for
17 years. According to a study by the University of MN approximately 60% of the sales tax is paid by non-
residents and 40% is paid by Edina residents. That same study projected the maximum capacity of a sales tax
in Edina at $80M. The referendum questions will be placed on the November 2022 ballot.
Commissioners are free to comment on the use of the local option sales tax as a mechanism for
implementing the project, however the method to fund these improvements is a decision for the Edina City
Council. The council has determined this as the appropriate strategy at this time and requests that Edina
residents are allowed to vote on these projects via referendum.
IV. Facility Needs and Revenue Assessment Study
Since the master plan adoption occurred in 2018 the popularity of programming in the community has
increased and various thoughts have been introduced on how to meet those demands. There is merit to
including a non-referendum funded needs assessment for both a) the Braemar Golf Course Clubhouse and
b) the Braemar Golf Dome Facility to study both facility needs, community needs and future revenue
potential. At this time these are study only requests and are not part of the Local Option Sales Tax
Referendum. These are areas of focus that could include potential future facility needs and opportunities to
create additional revenue or service to the community.
STAFF REPORT Page 7
Summary
The Parks & Recreation Department has many amenity offerings in its park system. If the Braemar Park
master plan, arena infrastructure improvements and expansion are completed, Braemar Park and Arena will
arguably be the best such facility in the metro area and beyond.
The amendments are supported by staff for inclusion in the Braemar Park Master Plan.
Staff Recommendation:
The goal of adopting a special project request process was to allow residents to bring forth ideas about
amenities to expand offerings in the park system. These requests are meant to be informal and used as a
beginning point of dialogue, saving the resident, staff, and the commission from having to develop a detailed
analysis for the project at the introductory stage. Since the initial request an operational analysis has been
completed showing an expansion would lessen demand by our users and would financially contribute
positively to the Braemar Arena budget. The capital improvements needed for the arena complex have been
listed in the capital improvement program of the city as unfunded and unscheduled. The needs assessment
study are forward thinking requests to determine if needs and revenue could be enhanced in the future.
Parks and Recreation Commission Requested Action:
Staff recommends discussing the attached information and making a recommendation to include the four
amendments to the Braemar Park Master Plan to the Edina City Council. The City Council would review the
recommendation at the May 17, 2022 meeting.
Braemar Operation Analysis
City of Edina, MN
______________________________________________
Page 1 of 9
Braemar Ice Rink Operations
Feasibility Analysis Ballard*King & Associates (B*K) was tasked to explore the feasibility of developing an indoor ice expansion to the Braemar Ice Rink for the City of Edina. To complete this task the consultant conducted a series of stakeholder meetings with several current ice user groups and staff to better
understand the current use of Braemar and to identify any unmet demand to determine the overall need and support for an additional indoor ice rink. The following is a summary of the stakeholder meetings conducted. Showcase Hockey
Showcase uses ice time during the shoulder season for youth hockey. Primarily they use ice time in April, May, June, and August. Additionally, Showcase operates a college league in June and July Thursday through Sunday. All total Showcase Hockey rents about 400 hours of tournament games and an adult league that plays on Sunday evenings from 8:30-11pm.
Braemar is just one of 16 different rinks being used for Showcase Hockey and they are not looking for additional time slots. However, the price point is critical in the program model and fee elasticity is limited. Edina charges $190 per hour and the average ice rental rate across other Twin Cities 16
ice rinks is $175 per hour. Showcase Tournaments draw 30% of participants from out of town,
10% outside the area that live within commuting distance commute to the Twin Cities and 60% of participants are local. Showcase has 350 teams in the spring and 250 teams in the fall.
A fourth indoor sheet of ice at Braemar is not a supply issue but rather a demand issue. Peewee
hockey in Edina is skating about 200 hours per year. It has a strong house program and teams are
looking to expand the number of practices they have weekly.
Edina Youth Hockey The Edina Hockey Association (EHA) has about 1,200 players (combo of traveling and house) filling 73 teams. In addition, there are another 100 players filling 5 teams in the Jr Gold division
(high school). EHA will commit to 60%-70% of prime-time hours on a fourth sheet of ice. EHA
hosts seven tournaments preseason and another sheet of ice will allow for taking on more teams and generating more revenue. EHA rents about 3,000 hours per year (1,000 games and 2,000 for practices). The Association is considering contracting with neighboring community rinks to secure
Braemar Operation Analysis
City of Edina, MN
______________________________________________
Page 2 of 9
more ice time for the 2022/23 season. The average cost for traveling teams is $1,500 per player plus an $800 for team assessment and extra ice time. EHA has an agreement with the City of Edina to rent 40 hours per week of the Backyard Ice during
their in-season schedule. There is also an agreement that calls for the Association to pay $20 per participant for 20 years to fund the Hornets’ Nest locker room addition. One of the biggest concerns voiced is what would happen if one of the sheets went down during the construction phase. The construction will at best interrupt a season and possibly losing access
to one sheet of ice for the entire season. Representatives from EHA stated that the relationship between the City of Edina and EHA is solid and has resulted in a stronger alignment between the City and EHA Board. Braemar City of Lakes Figure Skating Club The Braemar City of Lakes Figure Skating Club (FSC) buys about 20 hours per week to support their program. The City provides open skating sessions that supplement the FSC training. The number of rentals increase to 30 hours per week in the summer. Braemar charges $60 per hour for
the open skate sessions and allow the instructors to share the cost. The learn-to-skate instructors work for the City on Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday and 30% of the program is hockey skating. The FSC has 120 members with 87 considered active members. FSC does not offer synchronized skating because of heavy competition with 27 skating clubs in the Twin Cities and large number
of rinks offering the program. However, the FSC provides 5-6 test sessions annually. Additionally, the FSC produces one large production and one holiday production each year. FSC rents ice time for the shows and rehearsal that accounts for about $15,000 in rentals. It was reported that the ice compressors for the East Rink (figure skating rink) is tied to the
backyard ice. The refrigeration and temperatures for the outdoor ice results in colder ice temperatures for the figure skaters. Additionally, there is no vestibule between the outdoor rink and the East Rink leading to lots of cold air pouring into the East Rink. The figure skaters suffer the biggest impact from the 10-minute ice make schedule that impacts the overall quality of ice. Having 15-minute resurfacing time would help along with changing the blades more frequently. It
was also mentioned that the quality of ice is better when full-time staff are working but evenings and weekends are largely part-time staff. It was reported that they cannot seem to find a night manager when needed. The Club expressed concerns about the down time of the South Rink to add a fourth indoor sheet
of ice. They understand the need to close the South Rink down during construction but worry about the programs during this period of time.
Braemar Operation Analysis
City of Edina, MN
______________________________________________
Page 3 of 9
Breakaway Academy Breakaway Academy has an agreement to utilize 2 ice sheets per day, however, often uses 3 sheets of ice per day during the school year depending on the schedule. Typically, Breakaway uses ice
from 8:30am to 3:30pm on two sheets of ice and add the third sheet when the 3rd rink is available. Interest in the Academy is growing, and they are very interested in a fourth sheet of ice at Braemar. The significance of this is that the Breakaway program uses non-prime ice during the day that sits empty for most rinks. Breakaway is renting ice at Minnesota Made to accommodate their overflow
now.
Breakaway also has a Spring Development program that uses 1 to 2 sheets of ice from 3:45-8:45pm in April and May along with a Summer School on one sheet of ice from 8:30am-3:30pm in June and July. Additionally, Elite Training and League play is offered in June, July, and August between
9am and Noon. League play occurs in the evening two nights per week. Breakaway is exploring a
Mite mentoring program for pre and post season training that could use 1 to 2 sheets of ice depending on demand and numbers. Breakaway would prefer to be able to fulfill their on-ice needs at Braemar instead of using multiple
locations around the area. Breakaway representatives discussed the interest of moving (lease) the
tenant space if it were vacated. Braemar Staff
There are four maintenance FTE’s for both the rink and dome along with 20 part-time Zamboni
drivers (12 regular). Braemar has one Zamboni driver for each rink on the weekends. There are also administrative positions that include a Facility Coordinator, Administrative Assistance, Assistant General Manager, and General Manager. The concession operation is staffed by 10-25 part-time staff and the Dome staff operates the Braemar Field front desk. It was reported when
fully staffed, there are approximately 75 staff members excluding the professional ice skating staff
who are contractors. During discussions on the current staffing levels, it was reported that two more full-time maintenance staff are needed to have full-time coverage on Fridays and Mondays. Along with a
full-time staff position for customer service for evenings and weekends and potentially one more
office support position. One action item that is worth further exploration is to look for an alternative to hiring more full-time staff. Specifically, explore sharing public works or park maintenance staff from other City departments to supplement the Braemar miniatous staff. Typically, the staff demands in public works or park maintenance subsides in the winter months
(less snow removal). Using existing resources to address the peak operating times for Braemar
may be a cost-effective alternative for providing supplement support for Braemar arena staff.
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City of Edina, MN
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Braemar does not have a preventative maintenance software program or a formalized work order
process. Without these tools it is impossible to track the metrics to justify more staff, especially in
the maintenance area. At a minimal, the maintenance staff, in conjunction with administration,
should identify the preventative maintenance measures and start documenting them. This process
can be done on a spreadsheet if there is no access to a PM program.
Moving from a 10-minute ice make to 15-minutes will improve the overall ice quality. Most of the
current user groups commented on the inconsistency on the quality of the ice. In addition, there
appears to be a perma-frost issue that is impacting the ice thickness. It must be remembered that
the ice surface serves as an ice blanket to a point. The thicker the ice, the more energy it takes to
freeze the ice surface.
The maintenance staff reported the challenge in finding time to conduct regular ice maintenance.
In most rinks the daytime schedule is spartan so there is ample time for ice maintenance. This is
not the case in Edina. Braemar enjoys a robust day-time schedule that eliminates the possibility of
day-time ice maintenance. Ice maintenance is very important to maintain proper ice thickness and
visibility of the hockey lines. Braemar should consider assigning early morning ice maintenance
(4-6am) three days per week during the peak operating season (36 weeks).
Staff reported that each ice sheet has an assigned Zamboni driver in the evenings and weekends.
On the surface this practice makes sense, however there is another option to consider. Staggering
the ice time schedule could create a situation where one Zamboni driver can handle two sheets of
ice. Offsetting the schedule by 30 minutes will provide adequate time for a Zamboni driver to take
care of the Zamboni after an ice make and prepare to make ice on the other sheet. Reducing one
part-time Zamboni driver will reduce staffing costs by about $25,000.
Overall labor costs account for less than 60% of the Braemar budget. Recreation facilities like
Braemar are heavily dependent on staff to operate. Recreation is often a labor-intensive business,
and it is not uncommon to see labor cost consume 60%-70% of budget in recreation centers.
General Sports Success of the shop is based on good customer service and customer loyalty. General Sports has
leased space at the rink for the past nine years. If Braemar was renovated, they would like to have
an entrance off the main lobby and ideally would like 5,000 SF. It was reported that tournaments
boost sales and having a fourth sheet of ice will allow for larger tournaments and more sales.
General Sports indicated that they are paying a higher lease than retail space close to Braemar.
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City of Edina, MN
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Hockey Finder
Hockey Finder started renting ice at Parade Ice Rink a long time ago. The recreation adult hockey
program started with 10 players which quickly grew to 100 players. Today Hockey Finders has
programs in the Twin Cities, Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Phoenix, and Fargo. The program is full
in the Twin Cities and the program is running out of rinks. Hockey Finder is using 40 rinks in the
Twin Cities and has a waiting list to get into the program. The program is using Braemar 44 weeks
out of the year.
The program has minimal impact on Braemar staff as Hockey Finder provides the referees,
scorekeepers, and rink managers to supervise the program. The program is no longer part of USA
Hockey but carries their own insurance. Edina is the epicenter for hockey and location is very
important, especially in the southwest area of the Twin Cities. Hockey Finder would use three
sheets Sunday through Thursday if it were available, and their program could grow into a fourth
sheet of ice at Braemar. Ice time cost at Braemar is a bit higher than other rinks. Braemar charges
$225 and the average cost they pay for ice is $175 per hour.
Edina High School
The High School hockey program, both boys and girls, is getting their ice time demands met with
the exception of a couple youth hockey tournaments that interrupt the practice schedule. Although
Edina High School teams have a priority on ice time, representatives expressed concerns that
Breakaway Academy could be expanding their program to include high school at some point in
the future. They are also concerned that the priority of ice time could change. A fourth sheet of ice
will not impact the high school program or create more use. It was discussed that the City needs
some type of funding mechanism for dealing with capital needs.
It was reported that the overall quality of ice is inconsistent.
Velocity Training Center
Velocity Training Center is a 10,000 square foot athletic performance service that offers year-
round training and coaching for a variety of ages and abilities. Velocity is a tenant partner at the
Braemar Arena. Velocity also purchases on average $26,000 of ice annually outside their lease
obligation, a majority in summer months. Velocity representatives were invited to participate in
the meetings but did not participate in this interview.
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City of Edina, MN
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Concession Analysis
A closer examination of the concession operation reveals that Braemar is not maximizing their
return on investment. The consultant examined the budget details for 2019, which is the last full
year of operation before the pandemic hit. Extracting information from the 2019 actual budget
indicates that labor costs represent about 46% of sales, food costs are 36% while other assignable
overhead is 3.5% of sales. Successful concession operations are operated like a business instead
of a service. A successful concession formula is one that keeps labor costs at or below 30%, food
costs at or below 30% and overhead costs at or below 10%. This formula should net a 30% return
on investment for the concession operation. If this concession formula were followed at Braemar
it would have netted an additional $46,500 in profit in 2019.
In addition, controlling food cost requires the Braemar Administration to pay attention to
inventory, utilize conducting a physical inventory on a regular basis, understand cost of goods sold
(COGS) and matching point of sales reports to the inventory.
New Revenue Potential
Braemar Arena leases two spaces for tenant use to General Sports and Velocity Training Center.
Many of the prime users interviewed do not fully utilize Velocity Training Center. In the event
that Velocity ever determines to not renew their lease, many of the prime users would be in favor
of a restaurant type amenity to service the rink.
Capital Projects
The list of deferred capital maintenance projects is growing at Braemar and having a dedicated
funding source for projects is critical. Latest staff estimates from the 2021-2026 CIP indicate over
$13M in unfunded projects. Unlike most of the services the City of Edina provides it residents,
recreation does not have a monopoly and residents have a choice on where they spend their
recreation and sport dollars. As a result, the City should take a more entrepreneurial approach to
the Braemar operations and proactively build a dedicated fund for capital needs. Another option is
to roll the deferred maintenance costs into the project budget for a fourth sheet of ice if the City
approves the project. The City should consider contracting an architect or engineering firm to
conduct an asset inventory on Braemar’s operating system and building structure to identify
specific needs, estimate the cost of repair/replacement, assess useful life expectancy, and prioritize
the capital list.
The permafrost situation on the East Rink is a significant issue that requires additional engineering
study to determine the severity of the damage and remedial steps to correct the problem. Braemar
should consider adding the FastIce system for their Zambonis. FastIce is a computer controlled
high pressure water system that evenly and accurately controls the water flow during ice
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City of Edina, MN
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resurfacing. The system sprays water onto the ice and can be mounted on the existing conditioner.
The spray application makes better ice and energy savings. Staff mentioned the need for more
snow removal equipment to improve snow removal operations. Another pickup truck and a
sweeper will help improve the snow removal efficiency.
Any plans to add another ice sheet to Braemar must include a contingency for displacing existing
ice users during the construction period. The ice user groups are sensitive to the impact a closure
will cause to their programs and a plan for taking care of the displaced customers is important.
The Backyard Rink is a great seasonal addition to Braemar, and the facility presents a very good
outdoor skating environment. However, for various reasons the rink is under-utilized. The rink
does have dedicated locker rooms although they are accessed from inside the East Rink and rest
rooms. It was reported that many of the Edina youth hockey teams scheduled to practice on the
Backyard Rink will pass on the ice time and find ice at another nearby rink. Even though the Edina
Hockey Association has an agreement to rent time on the Backyard Rink for outdoor ice the teams
are just not interested in skating on the rink. If the City moves forward with adding a fourth sheet
of ice, there should be some thought about re-purposing the Backyard Rink.
Braemar Expansion Feasibility
Ballard*King was tasked with assessing the feasibility of adding a fourth indoor sheet of ice at
Braemar. To accomplish this task the consultant met with the current user groups to determine and
quantify unmet demands for ice time. The table below shows the detail revenue projections for ice
time. It should be noted that the estimates below are conservative and based off commitments from
the user groups. There are no revenue estimates for summer ice other than a few hours for the
figure skating program and using the fourth sheet of ice to add more teams for Showcase Hockey.
Additionally, there are no estimates for increased concession sales, admissions, and other
programming to keep the estimates as conservative as possible.
Revenue Estimates from a Fourth Ice Sheet – (Stakeholder Interview Users Only)
Groups Hours per Week Number of Weeks Ice Time Fee Revenue
Showcase Hockey 30 2 $200 $ 12,000
Edina Youth Hockey 32 30 $255 $ 244,800
Edina Figure Skating 2 12 $190 $ 4,560
Breakaway Academy 30 38 $190 $ 216,600
Hockey Finder 6 44 $255 $ 67,320
Revenue Estimate $ 545,280
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The feasibility component also includes an estimate of expenses for a fourth sheet of ice. The
expense estimates are inclusive to the additional costs associated with operating another sheet of
ice at Braemar. The table below highlight the details of the expense estimates.
Expense Estimate for a Fourth Ice Sheet
Line Items Base Expense Estimate Conservative Expense Estimate
Full-Time Maintenance $ 52,000 $104,000
Part-Time Zamboni Driver $ 30,000 $30,000
Part-Time Temps $ 15,000 $25,000
Benefits $ 29,100 $58,200
Zamboni Expenses $ 7,500 $10,000
Custodial Supplies $ 4,500 $10,000
Maintenance Supplies $ 6,000 $25,000
Electric $ 116,000 $116,000
Gas/Heat $ 22,000 $22,000
Water/Sewer $ 10,000 $10,000
Expense Estimate $ 292,100 $428,200
The feasibility phase of this study concludes that a fourth sheet of ice will operate on a solvent
basis and generate enough revenue to provide support of the Braemar budget. It is expected that
the revenues will increase about 3% to 5% over the first 4-5 years before leveling off. The increase
can be attributed to gaining more market share, growth in off-season opportunities, and ice rental
rate increases. Growth in revenue after the fifth year will likely come only from any increases in
rental fees rates as the schedule reaches a saturation point.
Operational Analysis Recommendations
• Identify preventative maintenance measures and start documenting them
• Consider moving from a 10-minute ice make time to 15-minutes
• Consider assigning early morning ice maintenance (4am-6am) three days per week during
the peak operating season (36 weeks)
• Proactively build a dedicated fund for capital needs
• Invest in a staffing structure that provides proper maintenance and operational support.
Braemar Operation Analysis
City of Edina, MN
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Page 9 of 9
• Consider contracting an architect or engineering firm to conduct an asset inventory on
Braemar’s operating systems and building structure to identify specific needs, estimate cost
of repair or replacement, assess useful life expectancy, and priority the capital list. Staff
suggests that this list is in excess of $13M.
• The permafrost situation on the East Rink is a significant issue that requires additional
engineering study to determine the severity of the damage and remedial steps to correct the
problem.
• Identify a contingency plan for displacing the existing ice user groups during the
construction period if a fourth sheet of ice is pursued.
November, 2017
with
Applied Ecological Services
and
Trail Source LLC
Braemar Park Master Plan
City of Edina, MN
Table of ContentsCHAPTER 1: BACKGROUND 1Introduction 2Master Plan Initiatives 2Existing Conditions Assessment 3Issues and Opportunities 5CHAPTER 2: MASTER PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS 7Overall Master Plan 8Pedestrian Trail System 11Pedestrian Trail Layout Plan 12Mountain Bike Trail System 15Mountain Bike Trail Layout Plan 16Ski Trail System 19Ski Trail Layout Plan 20CHAPTER 3: SITE IMPROVEMENTS 23Braemar Golf Course Site Improvements 24Courtney Fields Site Improvements 26Braemar Arena and Parking Lot Improvements 28CHAPTER 4: NATURAL RESOURCES 31Major Plant Communities 34Natural Resource Issues and Opportunities 36Natural Resource Restoration and Management Actions 41CHAPTER 5: IMPLEMENTATION 47Preliminary Cost Estimate 48
BACKGROUND 1INTRODUCTIONMASTER PLAN INITIATIVESEXISTING PARK CONDITIONS ASSESSMENTISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan23IntroductionIn 2016 the City of Edina Parks & Recreation Department explored the opportunity of developing nordic ski trails with machine-made snow and mountain bike trails at Braemar Park. After completing the feasibility study, it was determined a more comprehensive master plan for the entire park should be developed to explore additional opportunities for incorporating new trail, site, and natural resource improvements throughout the park. Master Plan InitiativesOutcomes and recommendations of this master planning effort have focused on the following key initiatives to improve recreational amenities, programming, and land use management for the park. These include: Improving the connectivity of trail systems, access, DQGZD\ŵQGLQJWRSDUNamenities and facilitiesProviding separated use trail systems to DFFRPPRGDWHZDONHUVPRXQWDLQELNHUVDQGFURVVFRXQWU\VNLHUVIdentifying new site improvements and recreational amenities to enhance existing facilities Developing recommendations and priorities for improving the quality of natural resources LQWKHSDUNIncorporating sustainable site and trail improvements which promote good VWHZDUGVKLSRIWKHSDUNVland and water resources 14253Existing Conditions AssessmentBraemar Park’s approximately 500 acres of park land serves a wide variety of recreational activities, programming, and user groups throughout the year. The park also contains a large and diverse natural resource environment which visitors can explore along existing trail systems located along the east, west, and south perimeter areas of the golf course. The newly reconstructed golf course is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary through its continued commitment to enhance wildlife habitat and protect environmental quality. It preserves and enhances wildlife habitat and maintains a strong water quality and chemical use reduction program. Future park improvements should also be compatible with natural resource management initiatives set forth as part of the golf course renovation. To begin the Master Plan process, an assessment of the park’s existing conditions was inventoried. The following images identify issues to be addressed in the park. Improve accessibility and provide better sense of entry to park facilities0DLQWDLQEXIIHUVDQGDYRLGFRQŶLFWVZLWKDGMDFHQW0XQLFLSDODQG&RXQW\facilities.,PSURYHSDUNLGHQWLŵFDWLRQDQGZD\ŵQGLQJVLJQDJHWKURXJKRXWSDUNSURSHUW\,GHQWLI\HDVWZHVWWUDLODOLJQPHQWFRQQHFWLRQDORQJVRXWKHGJHRISDUN0DLQWDLQQDWXUDOUHVRXUFHEXIIHU]RQHVZLWKJROIFRXUVHDQGUHVLGHQWLDOSURSHUWLHVDGMDFHQWWRSDUN
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan45,GHQWLI\SDUNDPHQLWLHVZKLFKFDQEHDGGHGWRSDUNRSHQVSDFHDUHDVWRHQKDQFHYLVLWRUH[SHULHQFH(QKDQFHDSSHDUDQFHDQGVXVWDLQDELOLW\RIVXUIDFHSDUNLQJORWVWKURXJKODQGVFDSHDQGSDYLQJVXUIDFHLPSURYHPHQWV5HDOLJQH[LVWLQJWUDLOV\VWHPWRLPSURYHDFFHVVLELOLW\VXVWDLQDELOLW\DQGWRDFFRPPRGDWHQHZWUDLOXVHUJURXSV,PSURYHHQWU\H[SHULHQFHDQGSURYLGHDFFHVVLEOHZDONZD\VWRSDUNIDFLOLWLHVIURPDGMDFHQWSDUNLQJ,PSURYHELNHDQGSHGHVWULDQWUDLOFRQQHFWLRQVDORQJ+LOODU\/DQHDQG%UDHPDU%RXOHYDUG,GHQWLI\QHZSXEOLFXVHVDQGDFWLYLWLHVWREHDFFRPPRGDWHGZLWKLQJROIcourse property Issues and OpportunitiesAs an initial step to evaluating issues and opportunities to be addressed in the park, five focus study areas were identified to be studied which provide different recreational uses, facilities, and programming within the park (Figure 1). The following issues were identified to be addressed based on comment and feedback gathered from park stakeholder groups, City Staff, and community residents. Figure 1: Issues and Opportunities)yBush Lake RdBush Lake RdDDeewweeyyHHiillllVVaalllleeyyVViieewwRRddDewey Hill RdDewey Hill RdBraemer BlvdBraemer BlvdValley View RdValley View Rd78th St78th StWW7788tthhSSttW 78th SW 78th SMSAS 41MSAS 41MMcc ccaauulleeyyTT rrGGlleeaassoonnRRdd McCaul ey TrMc Cauley Tr0 150 300Feet[BusshLLakeeRddBBBuuussshhhLLLaaaakkkeekkeeeeRRRddRRdddd300Feet[sonWWWWWWWW777777788888888tttttttthhhhtttthhhhSSSSSSSSSttttweyHillRweweeyyyHHHiiillllllRRReweewewweeeeDeDeeeDDDDDDDeee777RRddRRddRRRddddddddBraeemerBlvdBBBrrrarraaeeeeemmmmmmeeerrrBBBlllvlvvdvvddBBraaemerBlvdBBBBBBrrrraarraaaaeeeeeemmmeeerrrBBBlllvllvvdvvddBBldweyHHiillllRRwwwweewweeyyyyHHHHHHiiiiiillllllllllllRRRRRRdRRwewweeeeewweewwweyHillRweweeyyyHHHiiillllllRRRdReeewewwDDDDDDDDeeeeDDDeeeBraemmeerrBBllvdBBBrrrarraaeeemmmmmeeeeeerrrrrrBBBBBBlllvlvvdvvdd21lllleeyyVViiewRdlllllllllllleeeeeeyyyyyyVVVVVViiVVVViiiieeewewwRRRdRRddZone 4Zone 3Zone 5Zone 1Zone 2COURTNEY FIELDS1 BASEBALL COMPLEX • Upgrade Field #1 with new lighting & side line fencing • Provide expanded grand stand seating on Field #1 • Improve storage facilities in concession/restroom building • Identify opportunities for adding QHZSDUNDPHQLWLHVQHDUEDOOŵHOGarea (play area, picnic shelter, patio/seating area)BUILDING & PARKING FACILITIES • Upgrade building entry experience to Braemar Arena• Identify opportunities for improving landscape/storm water treatment areas for parking lots• Provide gateway park entry/ZD\ŵQGLQJVLJQDJHDWIURQWDJHURDGintersectionPUBLIC SAFETY & WORKS FACILITIES • Maintain adequate buffers with maintenance facilities • Identify opportunities for expanding trail circulation within natural resource areas • Develop management recommendations for improving the quality of natural resource areasTRAIL SYSTEM • Create looped perimeter pedestrian trail system around perimeter of golf course• Identify connections to be made to surrounding trail systems • Maintain adequate buffers with golf course and adjacent residential properties • Expand winter recreational use activities for mountain biking, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, sledding, and platform tennis• Natural resource interpretation • Identify mountain bike trail development opportunitiesGOLF COURSE• Identify opportunities for expanding public use of Braemar Club House• Identify reuse opportunities for remnant golf course landBRAEMAR BOULEVARD• Improve bike, pedestrian circulation, and lighting to create “parkway” feel for roadway• Provide park entrance and ZD\ŵQGLQJVLJQDJHDWHQWUDQFHDQGroadway intersections ZONE 1 ZONE 2 ZONE 3 ZONE 4 ZONE 5
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan67MASTER PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS2OVERALL MASTER PLANPEDESTRIAN TRAIL SYSTEM02817$,1%,.(75$,/6<67(0SKI TRAIL SYSTEM
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan89Enlargement 2Enlargement 1Academy 9 CourseDriving Range 18-Hole Regulation CourseKEY TO MAPExisting Soft Surface Trail (0.7 mi)Proposed Soft Surface Trail (1.7 mi) Existing Paved Trail (1.0 mi) Proposed Paved Trail (1.1 mi)Single Track Mountain Bike Trails (5.8 mi)Existing and Proposed On Street Bike LaneWetlandForestGolf CourseEntrance & Wayfinding SignageSpur Trail Connection to StreetSpur Trail Connection to StreetSpur Trail Connection to Adjacent PropertiesEntrance & Wayfinding SignMountain Bike & Hiking Trailhead Parking LotGolf Cart PathPedestrian Soft Surface TrailProposed BoardwalkRemove Existing BoardwalkExisting Bridge to Remain for Golf Cart PathRemove Existing BridgeProposed Platform Tennis and/or Pickleball CourtsSledding HillExisting Golf Practice HolePlayground AreaShade Trees for Seating EmbankmentExisting Paved TrailBleacher Shade StructuresPremier Field GrandstandProposed Paved TrailEntrance & Wayfinding SignEntrance & Wayfinding SignOverlook/Seating AreaNatural Resource Interpretive AreaExisting Grade Separated Parkway TrailProposed Grade Separated Parkway TrailRelocate Existing BridgeEnlargement 3Overall Master PlanFigure 2: Overall Master Plan
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan1011Pedestrian Trail SystemWith a variety of paved and unpaved trail systems present throughout the park, this master plan proposes to establish a more cohesive and interconnected trail system which visitors can use as a recreational amenity and be more easily connected to other park destinations. The following trail design criteria and implementation initiatives have been identified for creating a new pedestrian trail system in the park:1. Created a contiguous 3 mile looped pedestrian trail system around perimeter of golf course 2. Maintain a minimum 50’ native vegetation buffer between golf course field of play and trail system 3. Strive to maintain an accessible gradient of less than 5% throughout the trail system4. Install class 2 crushed stone accessible surfacing as part of trail improvements5. Incorporate a grade separated trail along Braemar Boulevard and Hillary Lane from Gleason Road to the 169 Frontage Road 6. Install crosswalks and stop sign at Valley View Road and Braemar Boulevard to slow traffic 7. Incorporate trail wayfinding signs and map kiosk at trailhead parking lot located adjacent John Harris Drive8. Minimize shared use trails and crossings between pedestrian and mountain bike user groups 9. Establish a new wetland boardwalk and bridge crossing over Nine Mile Creek on the south end of the park to connect the east and west side trail system10. Utilize and integrate existing trail alignments where possible to minimize natural resource impacts on natural resources.11. Create a new high point trail access overlook on the west side of the park. 12. Maintain pedestrian trail spur connections to neighborhoods on the east side of the park and to commercial properties on the south side of the park. ESTABLISHING A PARKWAY EXPERIENCE ALONG HILLARY LANE AND BRAEMAR BOULEVARDHillary Lane and Braemar Boulevard serve as the main roadway corridor connecting all park destinations. Creating a new parkway character for the roadway by narrowing lane widths using curb and gutter, pedestrian scale lighting, and a grade separated trail will all reduce traffic speeds and create a safer pedestrian and bicycle trail environment. Additional study for assessing wetland impacts, storm water treatment and conveyance, and impacts on the adjacent golf course will be needed to determine final feasibility for implementing parkway improvements in the park.Parkway Trail26’2’ 8’
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan1213Soft Surface Trail5’12’8’BoardwalkPaved TrailPedestrian Trail Layout PlanThe following types of trail systems are proposed to be implemented in the park to improve pedestrian circulation and access to park facilities.KEY TO MAPSoft Surface Trail (2.4 mi)Paved & Parkway Trail (2.1 mi)Other trailsExisting and Proposed On Street Bike LaneWetlandForestGolf CourseEntrance & Wayfinding Signage
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan1415Mountain Bike Trail SystemThe planning and development of a single-track mountain bike trail system in the park will focus on having minimal vegetation and grading impacts within the natural resource environment of the park. Mountain bike trail design and implementation guidelines will adhere to the following design criteria: 1. Locate trails a minimum 100’ setback from all adjacent private property lines and golf course edges. 2. Follow design specifications outlined in two of the leading trail building guidelines currently utilized in the United States. These include: “IMBA’s guidelines to building sweet single track trails.” IMBA’s book “Managing Mountain Biking” and the Minnesota DNR “Trail Planning, Design, and Development Guidelines.”3. Design trails that will bring the rider back frequently to increase their skill level as well as enjoy outdoor physical activity.4. Design trails that will accommodate all age and skill levels and encourage utilization by entire families.5. Utilize safety and sustainability as two of the most important considerations for designing and implementing a mountain bike trail system.6. During construction, incorporate grade or obstacle features on either side of trail alignment to challenge more advanced riders. 7. A trail feature that would attract an experienced rider might include a “rock garden” on an uphill, a small drop from a wooden feature or a roller that if taken at a higher speed would provide the opportunity to get a small amount of “air” under their tires.8. Incorporate a more difficult climb or a climb of greater duration for fitness training. 9. Incorporate a slightly wider trail width and clear zone for family riders on straighter alignments to accommodate riders two abreast. 10. Accommodate high school league riders who need an adequate trail length and variety of trail features and terrain to accommodate challenging climbs, technical features, and areas where they can practice passing as well as maneuvering to simulate race courses they will ride during the season.
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan1617Mountain Bike Trail Layout PlanMountain bike trail systems are proposed to be implemented within both natural resource areas on the east and west sides of the park. A portion of the trail system and boardwalk crossings on the south edge of the park are designated as shared use trails with pedestrians and bikers to avoid wetland impacts and the need for additional creek bridge crossings. Mountain bike trails are also proposed to be used during the winter months by fat tire bikes to encourage more year round use of the park. 3’ Mountain Bike TrailsKEY TO MAPSingle Track Mountain Bike Trails (5.8mi)Other trailsExisting and Proposed On Street Bike LaneWetlandForestGolf CourseEntrance & Wayfinding Signage
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan1819Ski Trail SystemThe newly configured Braemar golf course property offers opportunities for developing an extensive ski trail system when natural snow conditions can provide a solid base for grooming trails. The following design criteria was used for developing an alignment for ski trails on and around the perimeter of the golf course. »Create one way looped trail systems which lead back to clubhouse warming facility »Locate and align ski trails around tee boxes and on the edges of fairways to avoid damage to sensitive turf areas »Groom trails to accommodate both skating and classic skiing techniques on the golf course with some classic only ski trails aligned along pedestrian trails located in natural resource areas »Align a portion of ski trails on walking trails in wooded areas along perimeter of golf course to provide more trail variety in trail. »Groom trails 14’-16’ wide to accommodate winter walkers along outside edge of trail »Maintain separated use trails with fat tire winter mountain bike trails »Final ski trail alignments may need to be modified to respond to final green and fairway layouts to avoid adverse impacts to golf course.
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan2021Ski Trail Layout PlanSki trail alignments have been primarily designated on the golf course to avoid conflicts with fat tire bike riders and avoid the need for removing trees and vegetation in natural resource areas to accommodate wider trails required for cross country skiing. KEY TO MAPSkate & Classic Ski Trail (7.1 km)Classic Only Cross Country Ski Trail (1.1 km)Other trailsExisting and Proposed On Street Bike LaneWetlandForestGolf CourseEntrance & Wayfinding Signage4-6’ CLASSIC TRACK8-10’ SKATE TRACKSki Trails
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan2223SITE IMPROVEMENTS3%5$(0$5*2/)&2856(6,7(IMPROVEMENTS&28571(<),(/'66,7(,03529(0(176%5$(0$5$5(1$$1'3$5.,1*/27IMPROVEMENTS
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan2425Braemar Golf Course Site ImprovementsJohn Harris Drive functions as the main entrance drive to the golf course, building entries, and parking lot facilities. Separate drive lanes direct visitors to drop off areas in front of the golf academy, clubhouse, and service entry areas. To simplify drive circulation and reduce pedestrian crossing conflicts, a new pull-off drop off area is proposed in front of the golf academy building and a new turn around and plaza entry adjacent to the club house. With some reconfiguration and grading of the adjacent parking area, a new accessible walk system can be established to all building entries. A separated service access drive to the clubhouse is also proposed to avoid pedestrian conflicts and establish a better entry experience to the clubhouse and restaurant. As a part of providing more recreational amenities at the golf course for the general-public, a new lawn games court area will be installed on the west side of the clubhouse as part of golf course improvements. Master plan recommendations also include adding four pickleball or platform tennis courts on the southeast corner of the parking lot. To further reinforce implementing more sustainable site improvements in the park, permeable paving parking bays are also proposed to be installed to reduce storm water runoff from the site. DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS »Establish ADA walk access and turnaround area to clubhouse and restaurant »Add platform tennis and/or pickleball courts »Add multi use lawn game area near clubhouse »Add permeable paving in parking bays to infiltrate storm water runoff Platform tennis courtsPickle ball courts3HUPHDEOHSDUNLQJED\V0XOWLXVHODZQDUHDKEY DESIGN FEATURESTurn Around/Drop Off AreaLawn Court AreaExisting Golf Cart PathPutting GreenPatio Seating AreaSeparated Loading/Service Access DriveRestaurant30’NORTHGolf Cart ParkingAccessible Walk ApproachOptional Drop Off AreaDriving RangeAccessible Walk ApproachSeat WallBuilding EntryPermeable Paving Parking BaysNew Sidewalk ConnectionPlatform Tennis and/or Pickleball CourtsPractice Golf Hole Tee BoxPlanting FeaturePlanting FeatureFlagpole Plaza EntryBench SeatingEXISTING CONDITIONSPROPOSED CONCEPT PLAN (ENLARGEMENT 1)
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan2627Courtney Fields Site ImprovementsThe Courtney Fields ballfield complex is a well-used recreational facility within Braemar Park. To further enhance the quality of the playing experience on the premier field, the addition of grandstand seating, LED field lighting, and sideline netting will all contribute to better meeting the needs of spectators and players. To improve pedestrian circulation around the complex, a new paved trail is proposed around the playing fields and a new accessible path access connecting to the north end parking lot. A new drop off area and sidewalk edge has also been added to create a better sense of entry to the ballfield complex. A new playground facility has also been located adjacent to the existing maintenance facility to better serve the needs of player families with younger children and residents who live north of the park. DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS »Establish ADA access trail route to athletic fields »Provide a new playground facility for adjacent neighborhood »Implement a new grandstand seating area and lighting upgrades on premier field #1 »Establish a paved perimeter trail loop around ballfield complex »Create a better sense of entry to ballfield complex from adjacent parking areas »Install hillside bench seating %DVHEDOOŵHOGJUDQGVWDQG%OHDFKHUVKDGHVWUXFWXUH6KDGH6KHOWHU3OD\JURXQG50’NORTHShade ShelterInformation KioskPermeable Paving Parking BaysTurn Around/Drop Off AreaCourtney Fields Entrance Sign and Landscape FeatureShade Trees for Lawn EmbankmentPlay AreaExisting Maintenance Facility6’-0” Paved TrailPlayer Warm Up AreaUpgrade Lighting on Premier FieldHillside Spectator Bench Seating169 Frontage RoadBraemar FieldsPremier Field GrandstandRestroom/Concession Building WoodlandBatting Cage Braemar BoulevardValley View Road WoodlandGolf CourseEXISTING CONDITIONSPROPOSED CONCEPT PLAN (ENLARGEMENT 2)
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan2829Braemar Arena and Parking Lot ImprovementsThe Highway 169 Frontage Road serves as the main front door entrance to the park and parking lot facilities for the Braemar Field and Arena facilities. To create a better park entry experience, additional landscape enhancements along the frontage road right-of-way and within parking lots and the addition of new park identification and wayfinding signage will create a better sense of arrival to the park.Implementing building facade improvements at the Arena entrance to match building materials and signage used at the Braemar Field entry will also help establish a more uniform and updated look for the complex of building facilities at the park. To implement more sustainable best management practices for treating storm water run-off from parking lots, the addition of permeable paving in parking lot bays will dramatically reduce site run off and reduce the potential for erosion during large storm water events. Considerations for protecting ground water aquifers will require further study to determine the viability of using permeable paving systems in the park. DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS »Add architectural elements to Arena building façade which mimic Braemar Field Building entry. »Add parking lot island and boulevard landscape treatments »Add park identification and wayfinding signage »Add permeable paving in parking bays to infiltrate storm water runoff %UDHPDU)LHOG(QWU\3HUPHDEOHSDUNLQJORWED\V5HSUHVHQWDWLYH&LW\3DUN,GHQWLŵFDWLRQDQG:D\ŵQGLQJ6LJQDJH%UDHPDU$UHQDIDFDGHHQKDQFHPHQWVBRAEMAR ARENA5+&'8+'98+0;..1)1:64'#6'&%'�#+06'&#.7/+07/2#0'.$.#%-%(%1#.7/+07/.'66'4552#%'452#+06'&9*+6'2#+06'&#.7/+07/2#0'.$.#%-%8+0;.%12;#.7/+07/$7%-.'(#56'0'45:64'#6'&%'񦺽BUILDING LETTERING SIGN AND METAL SCREENING TO MATCH BRAEMAR FIELD BUILDINGNEW SHADE TREES IN PARKING LOT ISLANDS50’NORTH169 Frontage RoadBraemar FieldCourtney FieldsDrop Off and Turn Around AreaBraemar Arena Facade EnhancementsSidewalk edge with open access to lawn embankmentWayfinding/Information KioskPark Identification/Wayfinding SignagePark Identification/Wayfinding SignageFlagpole and Landscape FeatureBraemar ArenaAdditional Boulevard TreesPark Identification/Wayfinding Signage6’ SidewalkParkway Boulevard Tree PlantingsPermeable Paving Parking BaysEXISTING CONDITIONSPROPOSED CONCEPT PLAN (ENLARGEMENT 3)
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan3031NATURAL RESOURCES4MAJOR PLANT COMMUNITIESNATURAL RESOURCE ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIESNATURAL RESOURCE RESTORATION AND MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan3233NATURAL RESOURCES Historic ConditionsThe Wisconsin glaciation ended about 10,000 years ago and created the region’s major landforms. The glaciers left a rolling and hilly landscape with lakes and wetlands in depressions. Soils formed primarily from sandy and gravelly glacial outwash on level plains and are generally well drained. Other deposits called moraines appear today as mounds of mixed-up rock, gravel, sand and clay—such as those present in the west and southeast portions of the park. Low spots—or “kettles”— are common in the region, and historically occupied the central portion of the park. According to the Original Vegetation of Minnesota (Marschner 1974), prior to European settlement (circa the mid-1800s), Braemar Park was dominated by wet prairie, with oak savanna and “big woods” forest occupying the park’s upland ridges and hills. According to a custom soil survey report (USDA/NRCS 2017), the park’s soils are dominated by fill placed in wetlands; this constitutes the majority of the golf course. The park’s higher ground (including current oak woodland and savanna areas) consists of a mixture of soils dominated by sandy loam. The large, open-grown bur oaks on the park’s ridges and hills support that Braemar Park’s uplands were once dominated by fire-maintained woodlands and savannas. Review of historical aerial photographs (the oldest from 1947) shows the majority of the park under agricultural production (e.g., row crops and hayfields), and the park’s higher areas were characterized by savanna and woodlands with a more open canopy than today.Existing ConditionsToday, the majority of the park is golf course, including maintained turf, rough areas, rows and patches of trees, and scattered wetlands and drainageways. The perimeter of the park is dominated by wooded areas, including oak woodland and savanna, as well as lowland forest and swamp. Two Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) Public Waters exist on the park: the South Fork of Nine Mile Creek (which flows through the southern portion of the park) and a public water basin (in the south-central portion of the park). Additional wetlands exist throughout the park, with the largest along the forested northern edge (north of Braemar Blvd/Hilary Ln) and along the southern edge of the park (including the South Fork of Nine Mile Creek). Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) mapping identifies significant portions of the park within the 100-yr and/or 500-yr floodplain. MnDNR data did not identify any rare natural features, Sites of Biological Significance, or higher quality native plant communities on the park; however, Hennepin County identifies the park within a regional open space corridor. Large stands of oak woodland and savanna (such as those found in the west and southeast portions of the park) are regionally uncommon; based on Minnesota Land Cover Classification System mapping (MLCCS 2004), Braemar Park contains the largest blocks of oak forest/woodland in the City. Larger habitats often provide more valuable habitat (or greater potential), so there are likely plant species and wildlife species (including uncommon or declining species) that use the park’s woodlands and savannas that are less likely to use smaller ones. Of note, the park’s oak savannas represent an opportunity to restore a particularly rare habitat in the region.The ecological assessment for this master plan focused on the site’s major natural areas, presented in Figure 3. All of these natural areas are generally in poor condition due to significant invasion by invasive vegetation and other historical and ongoing disturbances.
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan3435Oak SavannaExistingHealthyWooded WetlandsExistingHealthyHerbaceous WetlandsHerbaceous Upland_ExistingExistingHealthyHealthyOak woodlandExistingHealthyMajor Plant CommunitiesFigure 3: Major Plant Communities
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan3637Natural Resource Issues and Opportunities NATURAL RESOURCE ISSUESNatural resource management is a key component to the Braemar Master Plan. The management approach to amend the natural resource issues described in the following pages will occur as an integral part of site and trail improvements proposed to be implemented in the park.Invasive plants present the greatest threat to maintaining healthy natural areas at Braemar Park. The park is dramatically and negatively affected by several invasive plant species, which often establish and thrive in disturbed habitats, usually crowding out native plants and animals. Invasive plant species typically have the following characteristics: »Tolerant of a variety of habitat/environmental conditions »Grow and reproduce rapidly, with good seed dispersion »Compete aggressively for resources, such as nutrients, water, and sunlight »Lack natural enemies or effective competitors Invasive plants can lead to low plant diversity, poor wildlife habitat and lessened resilience in the COMMON NAMESCIENTIFIC NAME GENERAL ABUNDANCE IN PARK AND CONTROL STRATEGYUPLANDSCommon & glossy buckthornRhamnus cathartica & Frangula alnus Very common shrub (also in lowlands). Remove all.Non-native honeysucklesLonicera tatarica, L. morrowii & L. x bellaCommon shrub. Remove all.Garlic mustardAlliaria petiolataCommon herb (also in lowland forests). Remove all.Spotted knapweedCentaurea stoebe subsp. micranthosCommon herb (in areas). Remove all.Canada thistleCirsium arvenseUncommon herb (also in lowlands). Remove all.Siberian elmUlmus pumilaUncommon tree. Selective removal where it can spread easily.Black locustRobinia pseudoacacia Uncommon tree. Selective removal where it can spread easily.Smooth bromeBromus inermisUncommon grass. Remove where it threatens active restoration/management areas.LOWLANDS/WETLANDSReed canary grassPhalaris arundinaceaCommon grass. Remove where it threatens active restoration/management areas.Invasive cattailsTypha angustifolia and T. x glaucaCommon herb. Remove where it threatens active restoration/management areas.Purple loosestrifeLythrum salicariaUncommon herb. Remove where it threatens active restoration/management areas (biological control options).Figure 4: Invasive Plants that Pose Greatest Threat to Braemar Parkface of disturbances and environmental change. Controlling invasive plants is often the foundation of most ecological restoration and management efforts. Figure 4 lists the invasive plants that pose the greatest threat to Braemar Park.Invasive animals also have adverse effects on ecosystems. For example, non-native earthworms are likely present in the park’s oak woodlands. These (and many other) invasive animal species cannot be cost-effectively removed or controlled. In these cases, it is advisable to manage the effects of an invasive species, rather than try to eradicate it.Non-native earthworms, common buckthorn, and non-native honeysuckles invade natural areas, initiating a cascade of negative effects. Oak regeneration is suppressed, native shrubs decline, ground vegetation is shaded which leads to the loss of soil-anchoring plants and increasing erosion, and flower resources for pollinators are eliminated, reducing the amount and variety of food for other wildlife and depressing wildlife populations. Non-native and hybrid cattails and Eurasian reed canarygrass are dense in some of the park’s wetlands. These invasive plants often suppress native wetland vegetation, reducing biodiversity and the resiliency of natural areas. However, with ecological management, the situation can be stabilized and even improved. Improving the variety of and vegetation cover by native plants is a good strategy to resist the spread of invasive plants, because native plants have the ability to compete with invasive plants if environmental conditions are favorable. During park management activities, including ecological restoration and management, invasive species may accidentally be introduced or spread across a site. Guidelines have been developed by the MnDNR to avoid introducing or spreading invasive species. NATURAL RESOURCE OPPORTUNITIESBraemar Park contains some of the City’s largest oak woodlands/forests, and as part of a mosaic with other natural areas, the park represents an important natural area complex in Edina. Throughout the Braemar Park master plan project, natural resources have been considered. While multiple demands are placed on urban parks such as Braemar, there is a firm commitment by the City to improve the park’s natural areas through investment in ecological restoration and management. Years ago, the City took steps to protect Braemar Park’s environment by becoming a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Recent work in the Academy 9 portion of the golf course included ecological restoration and native plantings, and this work will continue to expand throughout the remainder of the park’s natural areas in years to come. These efforts will further improve the park’s native vegetation and habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species and will enhance human enjoyment of this important City park.Restoration Potential Given the site’s natural and cultural history, and recent field observations of remnant native plants, it appears that the restoration potential of the site’s upland natural areas is quite good. While often requiring a substantial initial investment (followed by dedicated management and perpetual stewardship), removal of invasive vegetation alone can greatly improve the health of natural areas. For instance, removal of buckthorn (which at Braemar Park will require a substantial initial commitment over several years), will greatly reduce shading of the ground layer, which can “release” dormant native seeds and plants that have been shade-suppressed for years. Continued management and remedial overseeding (where necessary) will result in much improved woodlands and savannas.While ecological restoration will also benefit the park’s lowlands and wetlands, these areas pose a greater challenge. The primary invasive species in the park’s wetlands (cattails and reed canary grass) spread aggressively. Since many of these invasive plant populations are located along the South Fork of Nine Mile Creek and adjacent to off-site wetlands,
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan3839there will be ongoing invasion pressure, making control more challenging. For this reason, strategic wetland areas may be selected for restoration, while others are not actively managed.Community Engagement, Education and VolunteersMany benefits can be gained from engaging “citizen scientists”, schools, and other volunteers to assist with observations, data collection, analysis, and ecological management. Benefits of engaging the public and partners are: »The public learns about natural resources, increasing awareness and appreciation of natural areas and the natural world; »Valuable data can be collected for baseline and trend monitoring; »Cost-savings to the City through volunteer labor and in-kind match for grants; and »People will form friendships and form networks to advance the pursuit of natural resource protection, restoration, and management.Volunteer efforts may involve physical labor (e.g., planting trees, removing invasive species) or monitoring/research (e.g., field observations, data collection, and data analysis). Many volunteer activities require oversight by trained volunteers, City staff, or outside experts. Volunteer monitoring or research advances knowledge and builds public support for natural resource programs. One form of citizen engagement that has benefited many communities is organizing and conducting a “bioblitz.” A bioblitz is a 24-hour period when volunteers, supported by experts, document all living species in a given area (e.g., within Braemar Park). Bioblitzes help gather baseline data on plants and animals, while letting people discover the natural world around them. It also gives participants an opportunity to participate in scientific research. MANAGEMENT TASKVOLUNTEER ROLEGENERALLY APPROPRIATEAPPROPRIATE WITH TRAINING & OVERSIGHTGENERALLY NOT APPROPRIATENative seed collection & sowingXInstallation of live trees, shrubs, herbaceous plugsXHand-pulling invasive plantsXDragging buckthorn/brushXCutting buckthorn/brush XSimple ecological monitoring XManagement mowing XHerbicide application XPrescribed burningXSlope stabilizationXConstruction of water projects and best practicesXTechnical ecological monitoring XFigure 5: Use of Volunteers for Different Management Tasks.Bioblitzes also bolster more systematic monitoring of vegetation, water and wildlife resources.Volunteers can assist in a variety of tasks, and with additional training and oversight they can accomplish even more. Some volunteer tasks may be one-time events, and other tasks may be repeated over time by dedicated volunteer stewards. Figure 5 summarizes natural resource management tasks for which volunteers can provide assistance.Although assistance by volunteers has no direct cost, the staff time for organizing, training, equipping, and supervising volunteer events is a cost, as are materials (e.g., tools, safety equipment, food and beverage). Thoughtfully planned and executed volunteer programs will help reach the desired audience of potential volunteers, engage them in safe and productive work, and have them return to volunteer with the City again.Regarding implementation of field restoration and management activities, specialized training, oversight, and guidance often involves licensing or certification where required by local, state, or federal law. Personnel involved in ecological restoration and management, especially prescribed burning, herbicide application, brush control, erosion control, and ecological monitoring should receive training commensurate with the activity in which they would be involved. Training is especially important for those activities that may have risk and safety implications to people, property, and sensitive resources.While useful data can be collected by amateurs, ecological monitoring protocols often require a moderate level of expertise to implement accurately and consistently. Implementing monitoring programs may require expertise in plant and wildlife identification, as well as a working understanding of erosion processes and potential solutions. The City may wish to partner with Hennepin County, schools, conservation non-profits, and others to assist with monitoring and reporting. Private consulting ecologists can also be used to provide these services.Pilot Projects Pilot or demonstration projects can be an effective way to advance natural resources restoration and management programs. Pilot projects can be a learning opportunity for City staff and citizens, and improve methods for use in future projects (i.e., adaptive management). Pilot projects should be sited where the community will be able to observe the restoration process and the response of plant communities over time. Temporary or permanent interpretive signage (discussed further below) can make a pilot project more educational for the public.Interpretation Interpretation can take a variety of forms: signs, self-guiding booklets, mobile applications, and expert-led presentations and tours. While some interpretive signage already exist at Braemar, this could be expanded to further address the park’s natural and cultural history, important natural resources, invasive species and other threats to natural areas, stormwater runoff issues and best management practices, and of course ecological restoration and management methods and expected results. Monitoring and Adaptive Management The most successful restoration programs use regular monitoring and reporting as feedback on the program’s effectiveness. Adaptive management (a cycle of implementation, monitoring, evaluation, adjustment, and implementation) is central to the best restoration programs and should begin with the restoration work and continue indefinitely as part of the stewardship of the project area.Monitoring provides an objective measurement of project-specific criteria. Ecological criteria should be measured repeatedly in the field over time and compared with baseline data; this allows tracking of progress and helps direct management to most cost-effectively achieve City goals.A variety of criteria can be monitored to assess restoration and management success. Ecological
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan4041monitoring criteria typically include attributes of the site’s vegetation, but criteria can also address wildlife at the site, condition of erosion features, water quality, and other characteristics. Ecological monitoring should be simple and relatively easy to implement, although plant or animal identification skills are usually required. Criteria should be selected in direct response to City goals and restoration and management practices. Monitoring and reporting should be done more frequently at the onset of project implementation, after which frequency can be reduced over time to an intermittent level.NATURAL RESOURCE ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES SUMMARYIn summary, issues and opportunities associated with each major plant community are presented in the following table. PLANT COMMUNITYISSUES OPPORTUNITIESOak WoodlandModerate to very dense invasion by common EXFNWKRUQ VRPHLQYDVLYHQRQQDWLYHKRQH\VXFNOHGood restoration potential, based on remnant native species observed; good access for people; relatively large size of southeast woodland could support regionally uncommon forest wildlifeOak Savanna/LJKWWRPRGHUDWHLQYDVLRQE\FRPPRQEXFNWKRUQ VRPHLQYDVLYHQRQQDWLYHKRQH\VXFNOHVery good restoration potential, based on remnant native species observed; good access and views for people; oak savannas are one of the most imperiled native plant communities in MN and very rare in the metro areaWooded Wetlands/LJKWWRPRGHUDWHLQYDVLRQE\FRPPRQEXFNWKRUQ VRPHJORVV\EXFNWKRUQ KLVWRU\RIDOWHUHGK\GURORJ\Moderate restoration potential; poor access for peopleHerbaceous WetlandsDense invasion by invasive reed canary grass and FDWWDLOV KLVWRU\RIDOWHUHGK\GURORJ\Moderate restoration potential; poor access for peopleHerbaceous UplandsGenerally weedyGood restoration potential; good access for peopleFigure 6: Braemar Park Major Plant Communities – Issues and OpportunitiesNatural Resource Restoration and Management ActionsGiven the City’s goals and the park’s current conditions, it is important to proceed strategically in order to maximize success and control costs. Therefore, natural resource restoration and management at Braemar Park should: »Focus on removal of invasive plant species and promotion of diverse, native species »Prioritize efforts in higher quality natural areas »Integrate and phase in restoration efforts with trail improvements »Establish native vegetation buffer screening with golf course and adjacent residential properties »Focus on areas where invasive plants can be controlled »Be guided by regular monitoring of site conditions »Provide opportunities for natural resource interpretationBased on the principles and guidelines above, the following ecological restoration and management priorities have been established for Braemar Park. Figure 8 shows where each priority area is located in the park.Priority #1 – Restore Large Oak Woodlands and SavannasBeing the park’s largest natural areas with the highest restoration potential, these areas (i.e., west woodlands and savannas and southeast woodland) should be restored first. This should entail the following tasks:a) Remove invasive woody vegetationb) Remove invasive herbaceous vegetationc) Install native buffer screeningd) Install diverse, native speciese) Conduct perpetual monitoring and adaptive managementa) Remove invasive woody vegetation. The primary invasive woody species designated for removal are provided in Figure 4 above; however, additional invasive species exist on the site and should be controlled as well. If feasible, invasive woody species (primarily buckthorn) should be removed before or simultaneous with any nearby trail construction; this will facilitate field adjustment of trail alignments and make construction easier. If a phased approach is required (e.g., due to funding limitations), removal should first be conducted along the proposed pedestrian trail, extending to the golf course edge as well as 25 feet toward the center of the woodland. If native shrubs are absent or clearly marked and protected in a given area, it may be appropriate to use vehicle-mounted brush cutting equipment in portions of the site. However, at all times care must be taken to protect desirable native vegetation (woody and herbaceous) and minimize soil disturbance and erosion. Removal should preferentially be done during the winter when soils are frozen and native vegetation dormant. Follow-up treatment will be required for at least 3 to 5 years to address woody invasive resprouts and seedlings.b) Remove invasive herbaceous vegetation. While much less significant in the park’s woodlands and savannas, invasive herbaceous vegetation should also be controlled. The primary invasive herbaceous species designated for removal are provided in Figure 4 above; however, it is possible that other problematic species exist on the site, and they should be controlled as well. Removal of woody invasive vegetation may result in a flush of new ground layer vegetation, including invasive herbaceous plants. As with removal of invasive woody vegetation, care must be taken to protect desirable native vegetation and minimize soil disturbance and erosion.c) Install native buffer screening. Buffer screening should use native species selected for the particular planting location and screening goals. Wild genetic stock from within a 200-mile radius of the park is
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan4243preferred over cultivars and more distant genetic strains. Some research suggests that wild strains benefit wildlife to a greater extent than cultivated strains of the same species. Some research also suggests that local genetic strains of certain species are better able to survive local soil, climate, disease and competitive conditions than more distant genetic strains. Woody plantings can be installed as ball & burlap, container, or bare root stock. Direct seeding can be used as well, such as planting of acorns. Protection from rodent and deer browsing may be warranted. Woody species, stock availability, season of planting, browsing pressure, and installation and maintenance budget will influence the best stock and planting techniques to use.Native trees and shrubs appropriate for buffer screening and native landscaping at Braemar Park are provided in Figure 7. Asterisks denote species most appropriate for buffer screening within the woodlands along the edge of the golf course and on the southeast edge of the park. Figure 8 depicts where native buffers will be used. d) Install diverse, native species. Once invasive woody brush is under control, installation of diverse, native COMMON NAMESCIENTIFIC NAMECanopy TreesBlack Maple* Acer nigrumRed Maple Acer rubrumSugar Maple* Acer saccharumRiver Birch Betula nigraHackberry* Celtis occidentalisEastern Red Cedar* Juniperus virginianaWhite Spruce Picea glaucaEastern White Pine Pinus strobusBig-toothed Aspen Populus grandidentataQuaking Aspen Populus tremuloidesBlack Cherry* Prunus serotinaSwamp White Oak Quercus bicolorNorthern Pin OakQuercus ellipsoidalisBur Oak Quercus macrocarpaRed Oak Quercus rubraEastern White Cedar Thuja occidentalisBasswood Tilia americanaFigure 7: Native Trees and Shrubs for Woodland Buffer Screening(*) and Native Landscaping.COMMON NAMESCIENTIFIC NAMESubcanopy Trees and ShrubsLow ServiceberryAmelanchier humilisSmooth ServiceberryAmelanchier laevisBlack Chokeberry Aronia melanocarpaPagoda Dogwood* Cornus alternifoliaGray Dogwood* Cornus racemosaRed-twig Dogwood Cornus sericeaAmerican Hazelnut* Corylus americanaFireberry Hawthorn Crataegus chrysocarpaFleshy HawthornCrataegus succulentaBush Honeysuckle Diervilla loniceraWitch Hazel Hamamelis virginianaWinterberryIlex verticillataIronwood* Ostrya virginianaNinebarkPhysocarpus opulifoliusWild Plum Prunus americanaChokecherry* Prunus virginianaSmooth SumacRhus glabraSmooth Rose Rosa blandaPrairie Willow Salix humilisRed-berried Elder* Sambucus racemosa (pubens)American Mountain Ash Sorbus americanaSouthern Arrowroot Viburnum dentatumNannyberryViburnum lentagoHighbush Cranberry Viburnum opulus var. americanum (trilobum)
0RVWDSSURSULDWHIRUEXIIHUVFUHHQLQJZLWKLQZRRGODQGVspecies will help prevent re-invasion, stabilize soils, provide attractive blooms and berries, and provide improved habitat for more native species. In addition to buffer screening plantings discussed above, additional live woody and herbaceous plantings and seeding can be used to increase native cover and diversity. Plantings should be designed to achieve the desired native plant community, including appropriate dominant species in each stratum (i.e., canopy, subcanopy, shrub/sapling, and ground layer species) as well as other species appropriate for the plant community. The MnDNR’s Field Guide to the Native Plant Communities of Minnesota: The Eastern Broadleaf Forest Province (MnDNR 2005) is useful for selecting species appropriate for particular native plant communities. For Braemar Park’s woodlands, see the description and species list for FDs37 Southern Dry-Mesic Oak (Maple) Woodland (see Appendix B).e) Conduct perpetual monitoring and adaptive management. As with all natural areas, perpetual monitoring and management will be required to address ongoing pressure by invasive species and other issues that warrant intervention (e.g., dumping, erosion). Ecological monitoring should be conducted annually (more frequently immediately following restoration and management actions), and management should be conducted as needed. It is estimated that annual natural resource management will cost $200-$400 per acre per year for a three year time period after initial restorations. More detailed/quantitative monitoring is beneficial for more accurate tracking of trends and to better guide adaptive management; such monitoring should be conducted every three to five years.Priority #2a – Establish Prairie BedsBecause they will have high visibility and have high restoration potential, these areas (i.e., upland herbaceous areas on east-central and southeast edges of the golf course) should be restored. This should entail the following tasks:a) Remove invasive herbaceous vegetationb) Install diverse, native speciesc) Conduct perpetual monitoring and adaptive management (see Priority #1 above)a) Remove invasive herbaceous vegetation. Initial preparation of the planting bed will likely warrant multiple treatments with broadcast herbicide to remove invasive species and other weeds. It is critical to establish good weed control prior to installing native seed, or it is likely the resulting prairie will be of poor quality and/or a management burden. b) Install diverse, native species. Following appropriate weed removal and soil preparation, install one or a combination of the following State of Minnesota Seed Mixes (see Appendix C): »35-541 Mesic Prairie Southwest »36-211 Woodland Edge South & West Mix (when near woodland edge) »Beneficial Insects South West (pilot seed mix) »Little Bluestem Urban Prairie (pilot seed mix) »Mesic Short Urban Buffer South West (pilot seed mix) »Pollinator Plot Urban Southeast (pilot seed mix)Priority #2b – Restore Small Oak WoodlandsSimilar to Priority #1, these smaller areas of oak woodland should be restored. This should entail the following tasks:a) Remove invasive woody vegetation (see Priority #1 above)b) Remove invasive herbaceous vegetation (see Priority #1 above)c) Install diverse, native species (see Priority #1 above)d) Conduct perpetual monitoring and adaptive management (see Priority #1 above)Priority #3a – Restore South Wetland ComplexBecause the proposed pedestrian trail will pass through it, the southern wetland complex (at least sections near the trail) should be restored. This should entail the following tasks:
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan4445Key to mapNative Vegetation BufferRestoration Priority#113aFigure 8: Natural Resource Restoration Prioritiesa) Remove invasive woody vegetation (see Priority #1 above, but only aquatic-approved herbicides should be used in wetlands or near open water)b) Remove invasive herbaceous vegetation (see Priorities #1 and #2 above, but only aquatic-approved herbicides should be used in wetlands or near open water)c) Install diverse, native species d) Conduct perpetual monitoring and adaptive management (see Priority #1 above, but only aquatic-approved herbicides should be used in wetlands or near open water)c) Install diverse, native species. Due to the variability of this wetland complex (shade, soil type, moisture regimes, etc.), appropriate species and type of propagule (e.g., seed, live planting) will need to be selected on an area-specific basis. The MnDNR’s Field Guide to the Native Plant Communities of Minnesota: The Eastern Broadleaf Forest Province (MnDNR 2005) is useful for selecting species appropriate for particular native plant communities, and State of Minnesota Seed Mixes can be used as well.Priority #3b – Restore North Wetland ComplexBecause Braemar Blvd passes through it, the northern wetland complex (at least sections near the road) should be restored. This should entail the following tasks:a) Remove invasive woody vegetation (see Priority #1 above, but only aquatic-approved herbicides should be used in wetlands or near open water)b) Remove invasive herbaceous vegetation (see Priorities #1 and #2 above, but only aquatic-approved herbicides should be used in wetlands or near open water)c) Install diverse, native species (see Priority #3a above) d) Conduct perpetual monitoring and adaptive management (see Priority #1 above, but only aquatic-approved herbicides should be used in wetlands or near open water)12a2a2b2b3b
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan4647IMPLEMENTATION5PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE
City of Edina Braemar Park Master PlanCity of Edina Braemar Park Master Plan4849Preliminary Cost EstimateThe following preliminary cost estimates has been prepared identifying proposed trail and site improvements to be implemented in the park. Additional design and survey investigation will be required to determine more accurate cost estimates and funding needs for construction. Additional stakeholder partners may also need to be identified to assist with funding identified improvements.Braemar Boulevard/Hillary Lane Parkway Conversion $3,161,500Removals6,550 LF $15 $98,250Bituminous paving, storm sewer, curb and gutter6,550 LF $225 $1,473,75010' wide bituminous parkway trail 6,550 LF $140 $917,000Stormwater treatment and conveyance1 LS $100,000 $100,000Pedestrian scale lighting 65 EA $7,500 $487,500Wayfinding and roadway signage 1 LS $10,000 $10,000Site restoration and landscape improvements 1 LS $75,000 $75,000Courtney Fields Site and Parking Lot Improvements $1,925,070New LED lighting and electrical - (Premier field #1 only)1 LS $300,000 $300,000Premier field grandstand1 LS $665,000 $665,000Premier field sideline netting1 LS $50,000 $50,000Premier right outfield spectator bench seating1 LS $10,000 $10,000Play area and picnic shelter 1 LS $250,000 $250,000Turn around drop off area and wayfinding kiosk1 LS $30,000 $30,000Permeable paving parking lot bays 38,400 SF $10 $384,000Saw cut bituminous pavement2,130 LF $2 $4,260Remove bituminous pavement1,422 SY $5 $7,110Shade trees/landscape improvements 25 LS 700 $17,500Bitumninous loop trail 1,480 LF $140 $207,200Pedestrian Hiking Trail Improvements$604,250Class 2 gravel hiking trail 8,975 LF $20 $179,500Relocate and reinstall existing pedestrian bridge and footings 1 LS $20,000 $20,000Remove existing plastic boardwalk 700 LF $5 $3,500New 12' wide boardwalk475 LF $750 $356,250Picnic shelter and seating overlook1 LS $15,000 $15,000Wayfinding signage 1 LS $10,000 $10,000Site restoration 1 LS $20,000 $20,000Braemar Park Master PlanPreliminary Cost Estimate 11/30/2017City of EdinaMountain Bike Trail Improvements$229,584Mountain bike trail system 28,512 LF $7 $199,584Golf course trailhead improvements (kiosk, bike racks, and drinking water) 1 LS $20,000 $20,000Wayfinding signage 1 LS $10,000 $10,000Site restoration 1 LS $20,000 $20,000Braemar Golf Course Parking Lot and Site Improvements $1,267,102Site removals1 LS $25,000 $25,000Parking lot reconfiguration and grading 1 LS $250,000 $250,000Turn around, drop-off, and entry plaza 1 LS $60,000 $60,000Permeable paving parking bays66,315 SF $10 $663,150Saw cut bituminous pavement3,836 LF $2 $7,672Remove bituminous pavement2,456 SY $5 $12,280Pickleball courts 2 EA $12,000 $24,000Platform tennis courts with lighting2 EA $75,000 $150,000Site restoration and landscape improvements 1 LS $75,000 $75,000Braemar Arena Site, Parking, and Building Improvements $929,695Permeable paving parking bays70,875 SF $10 $708,750Saw cut bituminous pavement3,910 LF $2 $7,820Remove bituminous pavement2,625 SY $5 $13,125Tree and landscape improvements1 LS $50,000 $50,000Arena building facade and signage improvements 1 LS $150,000 $150,000Natural Resource Improvements$547,000*Oak woodland restoration65 AC $4,000 $260,000*Oak savanna restoration8 AC $3,000 $24,000*Wooded wetland restoration48 AC $2,500 $120,000*Herbaceous wetland restoration28 AC $2,500 $70,000*Prairie restoration9 AC $2,000 $18,000*Native vegetation buffering15 AC $3,000 $45,000Natural resource interpretative signage1 LS $10,000 $10,000Estimated Subtotal$6,491,40425% Contingency, Design, and Administration$1,622,851**Total Estimated Construction Costs$8,114,255*Natural resource improvements will also require 3 years of follow up maintenance of $200-$400 per acre per year.**Add 5% inflation cost for construction every year beyond 2017.
Date: May 10, 2022 Agenda Item #: VIII.A.
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 from the Parks and Recreation Department.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Informational Items - May 2022
May 10, 2022
Park and Recreation Commission
Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Informational Items
Information / Background:
4th of July Parade
Fourth of July Parade planning is underway. Registration to participate in the parade is now open on the
Edina Parade website. Also, new this year, the Rosland Park Fireworks will take place on July 3. Visit
www.edinaparade.org for the most up-to-date information.
Big Trucks
The City of Edina will host a free, family-friendly “Big Trucks” open house 4-7 p.m. Thursday, May 19, at the
Public Works & Park Maintenance Facility, 7450 Metro Blvd. The open house will take place during National
Public Works Week, a week dedicated to celebrating public works professionals. Everyone is welcome to
attend and learn more about how Public Works, Engineering and Park Maintenance serve the Edina
community in a fun and interactive way. Attendees can explore vehicles like a log loader, street sweeper or
paver, look at different types of hand and power tools, take pictures, and ask City staff questions.
The open house will be held rain or shine. Registration is not required, but if you plan on attending, you can
express your interest through the City’s Facebook event at bit.ly/BigTrucksEdina22, which will aid in
planning. Free hot dogs, snacks and refreshments will be served. Parking will be available in the main lot,
with overflow parking available across the street at 7400 Metro Blvd. For more information, call the Public
Works Department, 952-826-0376 or visit EdinaMN.gov.
Braemar Field Update
The sports dome was removed for the season on Friday April 29. The turf field now reverts back to use as
one of the city’s athletic fields for programming and rental until this fall.
Braemar Golf
Tommy Koehler is the New PGA Director of Golf for Braemar Golf Course
Tommy Koehler has been named the new PGA Director of Golf for Braemar Golf Course. Tommy
has been an instructor and golf professional at Braemar since March 2019. While playing for St.
John’s University, he was an All-American and then spent five years as an Assistant Professional at
Woodhill Country Club in Wayzata. In addition to instruction, as PGA Director of Golf Koehler will
STAFF REPORT Page 2
be responsible for managing the professional staff as well as overseeing the operation of the
Championship 18 course. Among the goals are to provide best-in-class customer service for
Braemar patrons, exceptional private instruction and improve what’s already the region’s best junior
program.
Braemar Golf Dome wrapped up its 2021-2022 season on Sunday, May 1. The golf dome, featuring
Toptracer Range technology, saw a record number of patrons over the winter. Here are some of the
numbers:
• 180 days open
• 6,561,624 shots tracked by Toptracer Range Technology
• 52,932 individual sessions
• 36,453 average shots tracked by Toptracer Range Technology per day
• 54,870 shots tracked by Toptracer Range Technology on Sunday, Feb. 20 (most in season)
• 68- minute average length per session
• 2,215,640 shots tracked by Toptracer Range Technology in virtual golf
• The Braemar Golf Dome will reopen in November.
Rosland Park Pedestrian Bridge Closure Update
MnDOT’s pedestrian bridge over Highway 62 at Rosland Park remains closed due to damage resulting from
a vehicle collision in January. MnDOT plans to repair the bridge over the summer and, if all goes well, the
re-open the bridge sometime in August.
Senior Center
May Day Tea The Senior Center partnered with the Edina Historical Society to offer a successful tea event
at Centennial Lakes Park in the Hughes Pavilion on Sunday, May 1.
Summer Hiring
Tennis instructors, Edina Aquatic Center lifeguards and guest services, Centennial Lakes Parks maintenance,
Parks maintenance are all areas that are still in need of summer staff. Some positions are eligible to earn up
to $400 in incentives for working the entire season or referring those who are hired. Please visit
EdinaMN.Gov for more information on all positions.
Date: May 10, 2022 Agenda Item #: VIII.B.
To:Parks and Recreation Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Perry Vetter, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Activity:
Subject:Upcoming 2022 Meetings and Events Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None, informational only.
INTRODUCTION:
Upcoming 2022 meetings and events are attached.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Upcoming 2022 Meetings and Events
May 10, 2022
Park and Recreation Commission
Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director
Upcoming 2022 Meetings and Events
Date 2022 Meeting/Event Time Location*
**Tues. May 10 Tour of Braemar Ice Arena 5:45 pm Braemar Ice Arena
Tues. May 10 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm Braemar Golf Course
Tues. June 14 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
Tues. July 12 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
***Mon. Aug. 8 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
Tues. Sept. 13 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
Tues. Oct. 11 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
Oct TBD 2023 Work Plan Review w/ Council (Chair only) 5:30 pm City Hall
***Tues. Nov. 1 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
Tues. Dec. 13 Regular Meeting 7:00 pm TBD
TBD All Commission Chair and Liaison Meeting - TBD
* Location update – A decision on meeting location will be determined in mid-May.
** Tour of Braemar Ice Arena for those members interested. This is not a formal meeting and attendance is
not required.
*** Date Adjustments – Due to the 2022 election season the August and November meeting dates have
been adjusted.