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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-01-12 Park Board Minutes 1 Minutes of the Edina Park Board January 12, 2010 Edina City Hall, Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Jennifer Kenney, Todd Fronek, Dan Peterson, Bill Lough, Rob Presthus, Randy Meyer, Joseph Hulbert, Keeya Steel, Ben Pobuda MEMBERS ABSENT: Jeff Sorem STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Ed MacHolda, Janet Canton, Todd Anderson, Tom Shirley I. APPROVAL OF THE OCTOBER 13, 2009 PARK BOARD MINUTES Dan Peterson MOVED TO APPROVE THE OCTOBER 13, 2009 PARK BOARD MINUTES. Randy Meyer SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED. II. NEW BUSINESS A. Presentation of Audubon Certification Awarded to Fred Richards Golf Course and Audubon Re-Certification Awarded to Braemar Golf Course - Karen Schragg, Manager of the City of Richfield’s Woodlake Nature Center, gave a power point presentation regarding the Audubon Certification Awarded to the Fred Richards Golf Course as well as the Re-Certification awarded to Braemar Golf Course. Ms. Schragg explained the program and thanked Bob Atol for asking her to get involved and to help do the certification of the Fred Richards Golf Course. Mr. Schragg congratulated the City of Edina because they met the goals and thanked everyone who helped with it. She then presented an Audubon Print to Todd Anderson, on behalf of the Richards Golf Course. B. Amendment to City Code 1230.07 – Farmers Market at Centennial Lakes Park – Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that the cities of Edina, Richfield and Bloomington collectively applied for and were recently awarded a grant to promote the Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP), which is a health reform initiative of the Minnesota Department of Health. Sue Schardin of SHIP gave a power point presentation on SHIP and explained how it relates to the grant program. She also pointed out the City Council did see the same presentation at their October City Council meeting. Tom Shirley, Manager of Centennial Lakes, informed the Park Board that they almost started a farmers market a few years ago but due to the city ordinance Centennial Lakes could not be a location for one. Mr. Shirley informed the Park Board that the timing is now right for a farmers market and commented that during the last several months he has talked to potential vendors and people in the community. He noted that he has learned a lot about farmers markets in the last few months and is still learning. He explained that currently they 2 are proposing to hold a farmers market each Thursday from 3 pm to 7 pm starting July 1st and ending September 30th. This ends up being 14 farmer market dates. Mr. Shirley explained that this farmers market would be a “producers market” which means that all of the produce is sold by the seller with the exception of a few unique items. He indicated that eventually they would like to have 60 to 70 booths but he would like to start out this summer with 25 booths. He noted that the booths would be set up along the walkway from the Centrum Building north to Parklawn and south to 76th Street. They would split it 12 booths to the north and 13 booths to the south. He added that there are 250 booths at the “Fall into the Arts” festival. He pointed out that he is considering charging $20.00 per booth per day or get a discount and pay $250.00 for the season. Mr. Shirley commented that initially they thought their expenses would be around $7,000 so it’s not a big money maker but more of an event. Mr. Keprios asked about the $1,000 sponsorship to which Mr. Shirley replied that they are hoping to find someone to sponsor the farmers markets where they would distribute literature and things like that. Mr. Keprios pointed out that they will be sensitive to the local grocers as far as what products are offered at the local farmers market. He noted that it has been shown that on the days of the farmers markets the local grocers’ business goes up. He noted that they will be very watchful and will learn as they go and adjust as needed to best serve the farmers market vendors, customers and local grocers and stated that we will make an effort to make it a win, win for everyone. Mr. Keprios stated that in order to go forward they need Park Board’s approval and recommendation of the concept of having a farmers market at Centennial Lakes which also requires an amendment of the city ordinance to permit the sale of produce in a park. Mr. Meyer asked what does SHIP pay for to which Mr. Shirley replied they will pay for advertising, signage, brochures, etc. He noted that he is hoping that the booth fees and sponsorship fee will cover Centennial Lake’s miscellaneous expenses such as trash pick-up. Mr. Shirley indicated that the vendors supply their own booths and take care of their own set up and take down, and are called on to be totally self sufficient. Mr. Lough asked if any other locations were considered and asked how they arrived at Centennial Lakes. Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that years back they had a vegetable stand at the Aquatic Center in the parking lot and the City’s revenues collected were to support the Art Center. However, when it became too disruptive with parking they moved it to Utley Park as a pilot project. A resident challenged the vegetable stand because it was in violation of city ordinance. City Code does allow for sale of produce on private property which is why there is one at Southdale in their parking lot. Mr. Keprios stated that they also considered having it in the parking lot at Braemar; however, they have adequate parking and easy access to several businesses at Centennial Lakes. He pointed out that the “Fall into the Arts” festival has always worked out well. In addition, there is a lot of subsidized housing in the area, frequently used trails and is in a highly visible area. These are all of the reasons 3 for his rationale to have a farmers market at Centennial Lakes. However, he is always open to other suggestions. Mr. Pobuda asked if any other days were looked at besides Thursdays. Mr. Shirley replied that they did look at other days but Thursdays seemed to make the most sense. The closest farmers market to Edina on a Thursday is in Maple Grove. He added that there is a lot of competition for vendors on Saturdays. Mr. Shirley commented that if all goes well they may consider another day as well but they want to stay away from weekends. One other thing is they have “Movies in the Park” at Centennial Lakes on Thursday nights so that could also be a plus to having it on Thursdays. Mr. Fronek asked Mr. Shirley if he has talked to the businesses and retail shops in the area about the farmers market. Mr. Shirley replied that they briefly discussed it with the management in the plaza area to which he has not yet heard back from Byerly’s. Mr. Shirley noted that Centennial Lakes does have the rights to the parking lot but they do want to be sensitive to the businesses and noon is typically the busiest time so they won’t start the farmers market until 3:00 pm. He noted that he does not think there will be an issue. Ms. Kenney asked what the rationale is for only starting with 25 vendors when you have the room for a lot more. Mr. Shirley replied they want to start small and not get in over their heads; they would like to ease into it. He indicated there is a lot of work involved and noted that they need to make sure everything is local and home grown. He added that they do hope to eventually add more booths. Ms. Steel asked how many bike racks are at Centennial Lakes to which Mr. Shirley replied they have one set of bike racks which are currently located on the north edge as you enter the promenade. Ms. Steel strongly suggested that they look at putting in more bike racks. Mr. Meyer asked who will be responsible for inspecting these farms to which Mr. Shirley replied that he will be. He noted that the City Horticulturist, Tim Zimmerman, will be checking on the farms located in the northern suburbs because he lives in that area and that is where most of the farms are located. Mr. Peterson commented that Tom Shirley looks like he would be a good candidate to be President of the Twin Cities Farmers Market Municipal League. He stated that they really don’t need to reinvent the wheel when so many municipalities already have farmers markets. He noted that they should all get together a couple of times a year to give and receive input from each other. Mr. Shirley commented that he has met with people from other municipalities and they have been very willing to share their information. They have given him some great ideas as well as told him different things to avoid. Mr. Peterson commented that he and his wife like to go to the farmers market at Mill City by the Guthrie and indicated that they also have food to eat at the site and asked Mr. Shirley if they would be providing food. Mr. Shirley replied that they are looking into it however, that brings the Health Department into it a little more. Mr. Peterson 4 commented that at Mill City they also have arts and crafts and asked if they would have those as well. Mr. Shirley responded that farmers markets are really split 50/50 some allow them and others are strictly for produce. He noted that he thinks initially they will stay away from arts and crafts especially because of the “Fall into the Arts Festival”. He added that they may have flowers. Mr. Meyer asked about the process for approving the city ordinance will it just allow one at Centennial Lakes or can there be one anywhere in the city. Mr. Keprios replied that right now he would like to see it limited to Centennial Lakes only. Mr. Meyer asked if the issues around signage have been considered, discussed and evaluated. Mr. Keprios replied that there is a sign ordinance in place that they will have to abide by. Mr. Meyer asked how it will be done to which Mr. Keprios responded that he thinks they will approach it like the “Fall into the Arts” festival. They will put them up in local areas so that people will know about it ahead of time. Mr. Lough commented that in terms of sequencing it is recommended that the Park Board recommend that the City Council approve the concept of the farmers market at Centennial Lakes and to amend the city ordinance. Mr. Lough asked Mr. Keprios if the city ordinance needs to be changed now before some additional planning and scoping work can be done. Could the Park Board just recommend the concept to the City Council at this time or is it necessary to do both of them now to prove they are serious. Mr. Keprios replied that he feels they go hand in hand and asked Mr. Lough if he has a hesitation with changing the city ordinance. Mr. Lough replied no, but his thought is what if they change the city ordinance and they don’t approve the final concept down the road the city ordinance still remains changed and that’s his question. Mr. Keprios stated that it goes hand in hand and explained that the City Council can actually waive second reading on a change of ordinance. He indicated that the Park Board can approve everything in February unless they would like more information at the February Park Board meeting. Jerry, Lakeville resident, indicated that several families rent land from him to grow produce to bring to farmers markets. He noted that he runs a couple of farmers markets himself and that they would be very interested in having a booth at the farmers market at Centennial Lakes. He pointed out that someone could inspect 10 different families easily in an hour on his land. He noted that they also have several acres of flowers so everything is fresh off the farm. Joseph Hulbert MOVED TO APPROVE THE CONCEPT OF THE FARMERS MARKET AND NEW ORDINANCE AS PROPOSED BY STAFF. Rob Presthus SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. C. Veteran’s Memorial Proposal - Utley Park - Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that this is a concept they have talked about for several years. He noted that currently there are a few plaques within Edina’s parks that honor veterans. However, there is no designated park or large memorial to honor all those who have served in our Armed Forces. 5 Mr. Keprios gave a power point presentation to the Park Board showing veterans memorials in surrounding community parks. He noted that it seemed to make the most sense to him to put one in Edina at Utley Park. He commented that Utley Park has a big grassy area right next to the Greg Rice Shelter Memorial. He noted that at this site they would not have to remove any trees. In addition, its location is right along the Fourth of July parade route which always includes our honored veterans. Also, there is a flag pole with a plaque that reads: “American Legion Flagpole – Dedicated to the men and women who honorably served their country in times of war and peace. Edina Post #471. May 30, 1955”. Therefore, it seemed to make the most sense to focus on this area however, there are other sites that could be looked at if the Park Board feels there may be a better location. Mr. Keprios indicated that it’s staff’s recommendation to spend Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) dollars to hire professional architect/engineer services to assist a committee. He pointed out this would not take away dollars from any other project. Mr. Keprios pointed out that he would ask the Park Board to also approve the process as recommended by staff which would include forming an 11 member Veterans Memorial Committee appointed by the Park Board. This committee would be the one to come up with recommended designs and concepts to be approved by the Park Board and City Council. He noted that the committee would also raise all of the funds to cover all of the construction costs. He noted that he would ask the Edina Foundation to be the “Charitable Giving Partner” for the fundraising efforts. The committee would also conduct whatever research may be needed. He noted that it would all be volunteer fundraising and not staff. Mr. Keprios suggested that they could also publicize it on the website and newspaper as well as print brochures and go on-site to solicit volunteers and donations. Mr. Keprios pointed out that staff would oversee the construction management. Mr. Presthus asked Mr. Keprios how much he thinks it will cost in the end to which Mr. Keprios replied it is way too premature to even guess what it would cost. He stated that it will depend on what the committee feels would be appropriate for the site as well as what the Park Board and City Council feel is appropriate. Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that it was an Edina resident, Mike Goergen who came forward and triggered this and he is willing to step up and serve as chair of the committee. He noted that he appreciates Mr. Goergen’s initiative, support and call to serve. Ms. Steel asked what if the dollars are approved for the architect/engineer and we don’t receive enough through fundraising for the construction how can they protect themselves in the process? Mr. Keprios replied that if they invest money in the professional services and they fail to raise enough dollars through fundraising then they would go to a Plan B. He explained that if it becomes priority enough to fund through the CIP, it would have to compete with all of the other projects in need, but those are decisions for the Park Board and City Council when and if that time comes. 6 Ms. Kenney stated that it seems the hiring of architects/engineers out of the CIP may be a little premature given that they haven’t even formed a committee to at least have a basic idea of what to design or what the budget might be. She noted that if the committee takes time to explore what the potential budget may be or what funds could potentially be raised but at least a concept of what the construction might look like; then maybe take money from the CIP to hire an architect to design a plan at that point. Mr. Keprios commented that if the Park Board favors the concept but doesn’t want to commit the dollars for architect fees at this time that’s okay but then maybe the committee can be charged with coming up with some of the initial funds for professional services and see where it goes. Mr. Keprios noted that he has come forward with this initial recommendation as a sign of the city’s commitment to the project. However, if the Park Board feels they ought to go forward and that the money ought to be donated up front that could also be an option. Mr. Meyer stated that conceptually he thinks it’s a great idea but if the city is currently looking at furloughs to city employees and now we are going to throw $30,000 at a concept that is in the early stages he’s not sure know how best to deal with it at this time. He needs to think about the situation we are in but at the same time he is willing to be creative and let it develop a little further and then decide whether to appropriate funding at that point. Mr. Fronek stated that in September the Park Board approved $30,000 to be dedicated to the Community Garden Development and asked if they could laterally decide to put that money somewhere else. Mr. Keprios noted that he did not mean to imply we would never do a community garden, it is not an either or situation for the money. He stated that if this becomes a priority and it is what the Park Board wants the money to be used for; then maybe they should walk before they run and first raise the money through fundraising, donations, etc., and then go through the public process. Mr. Fronek indicated that in fairness to the public the Park Board has already agreed to put $30,000 into the community garden and to laterally decide to do something else he’s not sure what the implications of that would be. He explained that it’s not a reallocation, there is a pool of money that he believes can be drawn from that would not affect the community gardens, they would not eliminate projects they have already committed to doing. Mr. Keprios pointed out that this project has come to us after the fact and that it does not change or replace anything. This would be considered a new project that would be higher on the list. Mr. Fronek noted that he doesn’t want to step over their bounds without further input from the public; he doesn’t want the public to have the concern that the Park Board is inconsistent or a transient board if we decided to do something different than what we said at the September meeting. Mr. Keprios commented that he only suggested the dollars are there if this becomes a priority. He noted that if they want they can go through the public process and let the people be given the opportunity to express their views if that’s what they want their capital dollars to be used on. Mr. Keprios stated that he appreciates the comments that we ought to walk before we run and maybe use fundraising money to begin with once they know what the scope of the project is 7 going to be and what money is needed for professional services before recommending CIP dollars. Mr. Fronek stated that in terms of budget and structure and back to Mr. Meyer’s point with city furloughs, etc. is it correct that the CIP dollars don’t affect any operational costs to the city. Mr. Keprios replied that is correct, those dollars can only be used for capital expenditures, it’s a separate pool of money. Mr. Lough asked Mr. Keprios if the City Council can rearrange that pool of money from the CIP from time to time during the course of a budget period to take into account current economic situations. Mr. Keprios replied they do, in fact if anything they probably don’t spend a lot of what is out there especially now during our tough economic times. They can move things around from time to time but it’s not frequent and usually when something is set, it’s set; however, this is something new that has come forward and there is currently no dollars for it in the operating budget. He noted that other than donations and/or grants, the funds within the CIP would be the only other available pool of money. Mr. Keprios commented that the City Council does have the authority to issue this money if they so choose. Mike Goergen, 6605 Kenny Place, informed the Park Board that several months ago he approached Mr. Keprios about the possibility of putting in a Veteran’s Memorial at one of the City’s parks and requested that the city consider this. He informed the Park Board that he is a Marine Corp Veteran and did serve in the Vietnam War. He stated that he feels they cannot do enough for their veterans and in particular those who gave their lives in the time of war. Mr. Goergen noted that he and Mr. Keprios have had many meetings to come up with the proposal that is now in front of the Park Board. He noted that he would be more than happy to chair the committee and that he will do whatever it takes through donations, fundraising, etc., to get the memorial established. He stated that he hopes the Park Board will at least endorse the concept of having a Veteran’s Memorial at a city park. Mr. Fronek asked in order to start the project what would the approximate initial cost be. Mr. Goergen replied that the cost will depend on the concept of the committee as well as what is approved by the city, so right now it’s a nebulous figure. He noted that the committee will have many functions, such as advertising, brochures, fundraising, civic groups, foundations, individuals, website, etc. In addition, the committee will also discuss and bring forth the components of this memorial from the statue to marble/granite to plaques, etc. At that point they will then have the architect run with his design of those elements and components that the committee would like included in the design of the memorial. Mr. Fronek pointed out that there are two components of having a Veteran’s Memorial. The first component is the approval of the concept although it may be premature to say it will be at Utley Park, although it does seem to be the right place to put it. The second component is getting the dollars needed to kick start this project. 8 Mr. Presthus stated that he thinks this a great idea and is needed. However, he does think there needs to be more planning and information, he doesn’t think they are quite there yet to be taking $30,000 from the CIP. Mr. Meyer indicated that he thinks this is a good concept but there is a lot more work that needs to be done. Ms. Kenney commented that she agrees with Mr. Presthus and Mr. Meyer and that it’s a two part component. She noted that she wholeheartedly approves the concept of having a Veteran’s Memorial in a city park. However, more work needs to be done by the committee before they can commit any money. Mr. Lough stated that he thinks for a city like Edina he is surprised that they have not entertained the idea of a memorial to honor the men and women who have gone in harms way or potentially in harms way to serve us. He commented that now that the idea is before us he thinks they should wholeheartedly support some sort of development of the concept whether it be through the formation of a committee to further flush out and put in some specifics and details into the concept that has been presented would be fine with him. However, he does think it’s a little premature to commit dollars to it but we should be enthusiastic about moving forward with the concept because he certainly thinks these men and women deserve that honor. Ms. Steele noted that she agrees with everything that has been said. Mr. Peterson thanked Mr. Goergen for his hard work and dedication. He noted that looking ahead his only question is that the Fourth of July parade goes down an Edina street but the City seems to be moving in the direction of the Centennial Lakes area. He would like to see Centennial Lakes as a potential location for the Veteran’s Memorial and added that it would also be a safer place for a parade. Mr. Pobuda stated that he thinks it’s a great idea. Mr. Fronek indicated that he has a lot of the same sentiment as a lot of people; although he is in the camp to commit the dollars necessary so that the project doesn’t fizzle out from the get go. Todd Fronek MOVED TO APPROVE THE CONCEPT AS MADE BY STAFF AND COMMIT CIP DOLLARS AS DEEMED NECESSARY TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN. APPROVE PROPOSAL AS WRITTEN. Dan Peterson SECONDED THE MOTION. FOR: Todd Fronek, Ben Pobuda, Dan Peterson AGAINST: Randy Meyer, Rob Presthus, Jennifer Kenney, Keeya Steel, Bill Lough MOTION FAILED Rob Presthus MOVED TO GO AHEAD WITH THE MAJORITY OF WHAT HAS BEEN WRITTEN BUT TO EXCLUDE THE $30,000 FROM THE CIP BUT TO 9 ESSENTIALLY FORM A COMMITTEE TO START THE PROCESS AND THEN REAPPROACH LATER IN 2010 AFTER MORE INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE. Jennifer Kenney SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Mr. Fronek reiterated that the motion approved forming a committee and the concept of a Veteran’s Memorial within a city park without CIP funding. Mr. Keprios asked for clarification that the motion doesn’t say it has to be at Utley Park, but that they will explore all opportunities within Edina. Mr. Keprios stated that he will start to move forward and solicit members for the committee. The Park Board thanked Mr. Goergen for all of his work and efforts. D. 2010 Park Board Meeting Calendar – Mr. Keprios confirmed that the Park Board meetings are held the second Tuesday of the month in the Council Chambers. He noted that the only unknowns for 2010 are the meetings in August and September. It is unknown at this time when the primary election will be; otherwise the calendar is as it appears in the handout. Dan Peterson MOVED TO APPROVE THE 2010 PARK BOARD MEETING CALENDAR. Rob Presthus SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. III. UPDATES FROM STAFF A. Outdoor Skating Rinks – Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that with the cold weather they have had the opportunity to make outdoor ice. He noted that he is very proud of his staff for the great job they’ve done. He noted that as the Park Board recommended Countryside Park is not open this year. He also reminded the Park Board that the rinks will be closing on February 15th regardless of the weather, which will result in some money savings. B. Centennial Lakes Winter Festival – Mr. Keprios informed the Park Board that on Sunday there was a winter festival at Centennial Lakes and that it was heavily attended. He noted that they had ice sculptures, face painters, exhibition hockey, etc. It was a wonderful event. IV. UPDATES FROM PARK BOARD A. Jeff Sorem – Mr. Fronek informed the Park Board that although Mr. Sorem was unable to attend tonight’s Park Board meeting he would still like to thank him at this time for his last six years of service. He noted that there will be two new Park Board members at next month’s Park Board meeting. B. 9-Mile Creek Regional Trail – Mr. Lough asked what the current status is of the Nine-Mile Creek Regional Trail. Mr. Keprios replied he will be hosting a meeting tomorrow night. It will be the 2nd Community Assessment Team Meeting of the 10 proposed 9-Mile Creek Regional Trail. He pointed out that the Community Assessment Team is made up of residents from each of the segments where the trail may go. He noted that after the first meeting they set up site visits and walked each segment so that they can objectively determine all of the pros and cons. He commented that it is moving along. Mr. Keprios stated that ultimately he hopes that either at the March or April Park Board meeting staff will come forward with a recommendation based on information they have learned the last year through the Community Assessment Team, the Environmental Assessment Worksheet and Three Rivers Park District. He stated that once it is approved it will be passed on to the City Council where most likely they will conduct a public hearing on the matter. Meeting adjourned at 8:35 pm