HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995-03-14 Park Board MinutesEDINA PARK BOARD
7:30 p.m.
March 14, 1995
MEMBERS PRESENT: Andrew Herring, Andrew Montgomery, Beth Hall, Jim Fee, Becky
Bennett, Dave Crowther, Jean Rydell, Bill Jenkins, John
Dovolis, Frank Bennett, Mike Burley
STAFF PRESENT: John Keprios, Janet Canton, Todd Anderson
OTHERS PRESENT: Rick Young, Karen Kitchen
I. NEW PARK BOARD MEMBER - FRANK BENNETT
Mr. Jenkins introduced the new Park Board member Frank Bennett. Mr.
Bennett is the representative from the School Board.
II. APPROVAL OF THE FEBRUARY 14, 1995 MINUTES
Jean Rydell MOVED TO APPROVE THE FEBRUARY 14, 1995 MINUTES. Andy
Montgomery SECONDED THE MOTION. MINUTES APPROVED.
III. GIRLS HOCKEY PROGRAM RECOMMENDATION - RICK YOUNG. EDINA RESIDENT
Rick Young explained that the School Board voted to add girls hockey at
the varsity level next year. He asked if there is some flexibility and
support that the City can give regarding the fees on the hours of ice
time used in the early morning hours for both boys and girls. He
indicated that it would be for the first year only.
Mr. Crowther asked Mr. Keprios what the Figure Skating Association pays
for ice time for that time period. Mr. Keprios indicated that any time
prior to 8:00 a.m. is $75.00 an hour. The regular fee is $100.00 an
hour and there are no exceptions. Mr. Young stated that he was not
aware of the $75.00.
Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. Young if he is comfortable with the plan that is
in place of $75.00 for the early morning hours. Mr. Young indicated
yes, that would be great.
IV. CAPITAL PLAN PROCESS
Mr. Keprios explained to the Park Board that they may want to have more
of a say and ownership regarding the capital plan and prioritizing the
limited resources. He indicated that there is currently $180,000 in the
capital plan and an additional $20,000 that is already committed to the
Art Center and Arena. He stated that there is an additional $46,000
that is part of the operating budget, which takes care of such things as
playground equipment, paths, hard surfaces, tennis courts, benches, etc.
Mr. Jenkins asked if the $46,000 is coming from a separate fund and Mr.
Keprios noted that it is actually part of the operating fund. It comes
out of the maintenance budget which has been approved for 1995. He
noted that staff typically decides where the $46,000 is most needed.
Mr. Jenkins asked if the number has been fairly constant or does it
change every year. Mr. Keprios indicated that the capital plan has only
gone down in all of the years that he has been here. It used to be as
high as $250,000 and now it's down to $180,000. He pointed out that the
capital plan is currently scheduled to be $180,000 per year for the next
five years. However, he hopes that the capital budget will be increased
in the years to come to keep up with the infrastructure upgrades that
are badly needed.
Mr. Montgomery asked where does the playground equipment come out of or
are we not upgrading any playground equipment. Mr. Keprios indicated
that staff is not planning to upgrade any playground equipment this
year. Mr. Montgomery then asked about the Federated Womens donated
dollars for the Lake Cornelia Park playground equipment plan. Mr.
Keprios indicated that the plan would ideally be implemented in 1996.
Mr. Keprios stated that he would like the Park Board to decide if they
would like to be a part of this decision making process. If yes, then
we need to go forward and talk about the plan as it is currently
proposed. Mr. Herring asked Mr. Keprios if the $200,000 is left
directly to the staff to spend and Mr. Keprios indicated that is
essentially true, however, the City Council approves each and every
expenditure.
Mr. Herring asked Mr. Keprios if he proposed more than $246,000 for the
1995 capital plan. Mr. Keprios indicated that he proposed a lot more
than that but was told that was all there was going to be. Mr. Herring
asked Mr. Keprios how much he proposed and he noted about one million
dollars. Mr. Keprios explained that the million dollars includes things
from the slide presentation that he previously showed the Park Board of
infrastructure in need of repair and/or replacement.
Mr. Keprios explained that the Homestead Agricultural Credit Act has cut
local governments, which is basically nothing more than state aid to
local governments. He noted that Edina is going to take a hit of about
$250,000. In addition, the City Hall roof is in need of emergency
repair, which is expected to cost approximately $100,000. Each
Department was recently asked to help fund the unexpected loss in
revenues (HACA cuts) and the unexpected cost of repairing the City Hall
roof.
Mr. Keprios explained that he has offered the $80,000 out of the
Developer's Fund, which has been earmarked for Arneson Acres Park
development to help cover the financial crisis. The fact is that the
Garden Council is not currently pleased with the park development plan
and, therefore, the Park Department will delay that development for now.
All of the departments are making a contribution to this $350,000
shortfall. Mr. Jenkins noted that he thought the Developer's Fund is a
different source altogether. Mr. Keprios noted that it may be a good
2
idea to have the finance director come to a Park Board meeting to better
explain the financing and budget process.
Mr. Montgomery indicated that there are several items proposed on the
capital list and asked who makes the decisions as to what items are
knocked out. He asked if the Park Board can review the priorities and
noted that the playground equipment is a concern of his. Mr. Keprios
indicated we have $180,000 and we need to prioritize where the money
should be spent this year. Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. Keprios if he budgeted
$101,000 to do the tennis courts in 1995 what does he foresee that
expenditure being in 1996? Mr. Keprios indicated approximately another
$100,000. Mr. Jenkins then asked what it was in 1994 and Mr. Keprios
indicated zero. Mr. Fee asked isn't that a lot of money to be spending
on tennis courts. Mr. Keprios replied that he feels it's needed and
necessary at this point and feels we cannot wait another year because
deferred maintenance is what is really hurting the department.
Mr. Keprios pointed out that the Weber Park and Creek Valley Park
warming house roofs are not part of the capital plan. He noted that the
roof that really needs to be repaired the most is Weber Park and the
cost to fix it is estimated to be between $25,000 and $30,000. Mr.
Keprios stated that the roofing professional has indicated that the roof
will probably last one more year. Mr. Keprios questioned if we should
put $30,000 into that building as it stands today. He then suggested
having a small committee take a tour of other facilities and park
shelters to see if we should replace the building instead of repairing
the roof.
Mr. Keprios explained that the building may have some historical
significance to some people because the building use to serve as
Morningside's City Hall. He noted that currently some Park Department
trucks, as well as, 42nd Street Theater Group items are stored there.
Mr. Keprios pointed out that the building does have a kitchen and
restrooms. However, nothing meets ADA requirements and the restrooms
cannot be accessed from outside the warming house. He also pointed out
that all of the windows leak and if we are going to fix the roof we
should replace all of the windows. Mr. Keprios stated that basically
the building is used to store things and change skates.
Mr. Burley arrived at this point and apologized for being late. Mr.
Jenkins introduced him and the Park Board members each introduced
themselves.
Mr. Fee asked Mr. Keprios if he is looking for a motion as far as
participation in this process. Mr. Keprios stated that, before he
explains the numbers any further, the Park Board needs to decide if they
want to decide on the capital plan or do you want to leave it to staff
to do. Mr. Herring confirmed that Mr. Keprios is asking if the Park
Board wants to be involved in coming up with the priorities for the use
of the capital plan. He noted he assumes that would mean advocating a
larger capital plan to the City Council and working with these
priorities. Mr. Jenkins indicated that he feels maybe we should be a
little more involved in the process. Mr. Fee stated that we are not
going to know all of the nitty gritty like they are but this is the kind
3
of information he thinks we need to look at in order to help Mr. Keprios
decide. He then pointed out that they may not always agree on the
priority of things, especially if we only have $180,000. Mr. Fee then
stated it looks like half is going to be spent on tennis courts and we
need to discuss this, especially if we only have $200,000 to work with.
Mr. Fee noted that the Park Board needs to have some kind of input. Mr.
Jenkins asked if a motion is needed and Mr. Keprios noted that a
consensus would be good enough. Mr. Dovolis noted that he can help him
with the warming houses if Mr. Keprios needs help.
Mr. Herring asked if they could again see the million dollar list so
that they have a sense of what else is out there. Mr. Keprios indicated
that the current needs are much greater than that, however, he will
submit another list to everyone again. Mr. Herring noted that he's also
struck by using $100,000 for tennis courts. Mr. Keprios explained that
the $101,200 is an engineer's estimate and is probably a high estimate,
and that the bids should come in much lower. Mr. Jenkins stated that it
is still a big chunk of capital dollars when we are strapped to begin
with. Mr. Keprios stated that people are complaining that the reason
they are not playing the tennis courts is because they are not being
maintained. He pointed out that, in the capital plan, staff is
suggesting that we not build anything new until we repair what needs to
be fixed. Mr. Keprios stated that, if tennis courts are not repaired,
people cannot use them, whereas, children can still use playground
equipment even though it is old, it is still usable. Mr. Montgomery
noted that we need to realistically see that tennis is not as popular as
it was five to eight years ago.
Mr. Fee asked why don't we put $100,000 into Lake Cornelia Park and Mr.
Keprios indicated that it is in the plan for 1996. Mr. Fee indicated
that Lake Cornelia Park gets used every day all day as opposed to a
couple of tennis courts that are going to get played on at the most a
couple of hours a day.
Mr. Frank Bennett mentioned that the Edina School is putting in three
new sets of playground equipment at the elementary schools and possibly
if you add a set we can get a volume discount.
Mr. Bennett stated that possibly the Morningside Rotary Club would be
interested in raising funds for the roof or a new building at Weber
Park.
V. ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board if there are any objections that the
election of officers be held at the March meeting from now on. He
explained that he found nothing in the by-laws that states we cannot do
that. Everyone agreed that would be fine.
Mr. Keprios opened up nominations for Park Board Chair.
Jim Fee NOMINATED Bill Jenkins.
Jean Rydell NOMINATED Andrew Montgomery.
C
John Dovolis MOVED TO CLOSE THE NOMINATIONS. Andrew Montgomery SECONDED
THE MOTION. NOMINATION CLOSED.
Mr. Herring noted that he would like to make a comment about the Chair
of the Park Board. He stated that historically the Park Board has
elected a Chair and that Chair has served for an extended period of 3 to
5 years. He noted that he frankly would like to see that change more
frequently, say every two years. He feels this would bring new ideas
and new energy to the position and that people do things differently and
the interaction would be different and he feels that would be healthy.
He noted that it would be his recommendation that we elect a new Chair
this year and Andy Montgomery is wholly acceptable to him. He pointed
out that he doesn't mean this directly addressed at Mr. Jenkins, but he
feels there would be a lot of merit in moving the Chair around and he
hopes people would consider that.
Mr. Burley asked what is the Chairman's responsibility? Mr. Keprios
stated that basically the Chair is the leader of the group, runs the
meetings and typically has the authority to assign task forces,
subcommittees, study groups, things of that sort. There are also a few
other functions, such as, making presentations to the City Council and
giving speeches at various functions. Mr. Herring asked if the Chair
has input in setting the agenda for the meetings. It was explained that
the Park and Recreation Director writes up the agenda and runs it by the
Chair before the meeting.
Mr. Crowther asked Mr. Herring if he feels the Park Board hasn't been
running well. He asked if he feels that Mr. Christianson didn't do a
great job or Mr. Jenkins isn't doing a great job. Mr. Herring noted
that he thinks you get into a rut. Mr. Herring stated that Mr. Jenkins
has certain priorities and Mr. Montgomery has certain priorities and
that both would approach things differently. He noted that's not to say
that it would be better but it will be different and it will bring new
energy to the group. He indicated that Mr. Montgomery may end up being
a poor new leader, he doesn't think so and he doesn't think Mr. Jenkins
has a been a poor leader. He just feels that change in a group like
this would be good.
Mr. Crowther indicated that maybe each nominee should talk about what
their priorities would be for the coming year. Mr. Crowther noted that
he hears him say change just for the sake of change and he definitely
doesn't approve or agree with that kind of a philosophy. Therefore, he
would like each nominee tell us what they would like to accomplish or
what they might do different.
Mr. Dovolis pointed out that he has been involved with various other
organizations where there has been constant change of leadership and
there has been more tendency to reinvent the wheel. He stated that all
of a sudden you start with a leadership and you're starting from square
one again. He would be in complete disagreement for a yearly type of
thing. Mr. Dovolis explained that he has seen too many things happen
where all of a sudden you are starting from scratch all over again. He
pointed that when Mr. Herring talked about energy and so forth it is
part of the Park Board's responsibility as members to create the
5
energies. If someone doesn't like the way things are going they should
speak up. He feels it isn't the job of the Chairman to create those
things or to create the agenda and partnership with that. The staff has
to create the things that we need to do and obviously there are a lot of
things to be done and he feels now is not the right time to be making
any changes. There are a lot of things on our plate for next year and
although he agrees partially with Mr. Herring, he has seen it happen too
many times where things grind to a complete halt and it takes 6 months
to get up to speed again when there is someone new.
Mr. Fee noted that he has been on the Park Board 11 years and Mr.
Jenkins is the third Chair. He pointed that it has been very positive
experiences with Ms. Lonsbury and Mr. Christianson. He stated that Mr.
Jenkins doesn't have anymore authority than anybody else on the Park
Board and he thinks he's done a pretty good job and he's only been doing
it two years. Mr. Fee agrees that having a new Park and Recreation
Director has been a positive change. Mr. Keprios has done an excellent
job and has made some changes that quite honestly needed to be made.
Mr. Fee noted that he feels a three year process would add a little more
stability and also pointed out that the Chair doesn't have any more
authority or voting power than the rest of the Board.
Mr. Montgomery stated that he sees a lot of talent on the Park Board and
doesn't feel that it is being utilized. He noted that we don't really
get involved in things prior to the meetings. He indicated that he
feels there are so many things that we could be doing. Mr. Montgomery
explained that when he saw the herbicide presentation, the effort that
the Edina Community Health Services Advisory Committee people put in as
a board to come up with that program was great. He indicated that he
asked himself do we as a group around this table put that energy into
the Park Board. He pointed out that with the capital plan maybe there
could be three people on a committee to meet with Mr. Keprios and come
back to the Board with an independent point of view. He noted that we
are going to be under more pressure with the capital budget and we are
eliminating tennis courts. He feels that the Park Board should spend
more energy in four weeks than what they do. He also pointed out that
nobody thought about what the community was really looking for as an
alternative to the Braemar tennis site.
Mr. Jenkins indicated that he prefers more of a hands-off approach to
leadership. He would like to rely on the staff to do the leg work and
give us the information and the decisions as to what's going on. If
there is anything out of line or there are things that have to be looked
at he feels we have always been very open and willing to put in the time
depending on the situation to address those things. Mr. Jenkins stated
that with the capital plan he agrees we should be getting more involved,
however, we should not be micro -managing, which means getting too
involved in the day-to-day activities. The things that have just been
mentioned he wouldn't say are micro -management. They are projects and
ideas that probably should be looked at as a Board and noted that he is
open to suggestions along the way. Mr. Jenkins stated that we are all
in this together and whoever is Chairman there is no reason we can't get
these out as well. Mr. Jenkins stated that his standpoint is he is
trying to work with the City Council and with the Mayor in the long
range plan of developing or getting capital funds to improve the
infrastructure of our parks. He noted that's really his biggest goal if
there were one from a Park Board standpoint. From a day-to-day
standpoint he feels he is a little more hands-off and let the staff do
their deal and he would like to keep on with the long range plan the big
picture plan of approving the overall infrastructure of the parks.
The Park Board voted by written ballot and Mr. Keprios indicated that
the Park Board chose Mr. Jenkins to be the 1995 Chairman.
Mr. Keprios then opened up nominations for Vice -Chair.
Dave Crowther NOMINATED Andy Montgomery. Jim Fee SECONDED.
John Dovolis MOVED THAT THE NOMINATIONS BE CLOSED. Andrew Herring
SECONDED.
Mr. Keprios indicated that Andy Montgomery is the Park Board's 1995
Vice -Chair.
Mr. Herring indicated that he would like to work with Mr. Jenkins in
dealing with the issue of financing for the capital improvement. Mr.
Herring also noted that he would like to offer up that we might want to
consider a finance committee for the Park Board. He noted that he
doesn't quite understand the whole overall budget. Mr. Jenkins
indicated that he has never really seen those either. Mr. Keprios
stated that we could form a small committee and get the Finance Director
to walk us through it all. Mr. Jenkins noted that he would welcome any
participation. Mr. Dovolis indicated that Mr. Herring brought up a good
point to try to divide the Park Board into subcommittees in order to get
things done and to help Mr. Keprios and the staff. Everyone should be
involved, it is a learning process. Mr. Dovolis pointed out that from
the very beginning he has felt that our park system is deteriorating to
such an extent and that's why we need to spend $101,000 on tennis courts
or playground equipment. Now is the time with new leadership to get our
feet into these things so we can get things done.
Mr. Burley noted that he has been on other boards and has found that
sometimes there is a dictatorship in that 3 to 4 people run the whole
board. He stated that the only active and good boards are the ones
where everybody is involved from the moment they get on. Mr. Burley
noted that he volunteered to be on the Park Board because he has lived
in the community for 30 years and sees it in need of some help
financially for improvements.
Mr. Jenkins noted that he thinks it's good we are getting all of these
things on the table and he is wide open to forming subcommittees and a
task force when we need to get certain things done.
Mr. Montgomery noted that maybe he and Mr. Jenkins can set some time
aside and reformulate the responsibilities of the Park Board and Mr.
Jenkins noted he would be glad to do that.
Mr. Bennett noted that one thing he remembers from last fall when Dennis
YA
Maetzold was running for City Council is he had said that the parks were
a top priority and suggested using him as an alley and a sounding board.
Mr. Jenkins noted that our two greatest allies are Fred Richards and
Dennis Maetzold.
VI. 1995 CAPITAL PLAN
Mr. Herring asked Mr. Keprios if the tennis courts are his first
priority and he noted he would have to say they are. Mr. Keprios
indicated that he feels we have an obligation and responsibility to the
community to repair what we have. He noted that there is no sense
having expensive equipment and not maintaining them so they get to the
point where they cannot be played on. This is also why we are not
seeing the development of anything new. We need to fix what we have.
Mr. Keprios brought up the issue of repairing the warming house roofs.
He indicated that he is still not sure what to do with the Weber Park
shelter area as was mentioned earlier. He noted that he would like to
work with a small committee to look at some other alternatives. He
noted that he would appreciate some input on this. He also stated that
the repair of the Creek Valley shelter roof will be co -funded through
the Engineering Department since they have a well at that site and it is
not in as near bad of shape as the rest of them. He noted that the
other warming house roofs definitely need to be done this year.
Mr. Crowther asked if we need to look at all of the roofs or just the
one. Mr. Keprios stated that he has had a professional roofer look at
all of the roofs and helped him to prioritize them. Mr. Keprios
indicated that he doesn't need anyone to look at the roofs but needs
someone to help him with the long range vision of what we should be
recommending to the City Council.
Mr. Keprios stated that Mr. Bennett's comments regarding Mr. Maetzold
were right on. He noted that Mr. Maetzold has directed staff to work
with the City Manager and the Park Board to come up with some kind of a
plan that will get us going. He noted that it appears as though we have
a lot of support from the City Council to work towards upgrading our
Park infrastructure.
Mr. Herring noted that we need to do something with the Weber situation.
He stated that maybe there is a community group over there that could
work on this issue. He doesn't know that you should really take four
people from the Park Board to work on this. He feels maybe one person
from the Park Board and then leverage on the community and create some
kind of task force to come up with an idea. Mr. Herring also noted that
volunteers like us can have their hand out trying to raise funds for
this project. Mr. Keprios noted that the building is opened up for
restroom access but pointed out that a lot of money would need to be put
into them so they would meet ADA requirements. Mr. Keprios indicated
that it would cost between $90,000 and $100,000 to build a new building
compared to $30,000 to replace a roof. Mr. Herring stated that he would
like to see a community group, one like Mike Julius', get involved and
come up with new ideas on how to raise money and get the right facility.
Mr. Keprios pointed out that he doesn't recommend that we rely on
forming a neighborhood committee in every single park to raise monies to
develop their particular park. He noted that he doesn't think that is
the way to develop a park system. Mr. Keprios suggested that the Park
Board adopt a vision, inform the neighborhood and get their input, and
then come forward with a recommendation.
Mr. Fee asked how do you prioritize Weber when it is heavily used by so
many other surrounding cities. Mr. Keprios stated that he doesn't think
that is the case. He indicated there are a lot of Edina residents who
play hockey there. He pointed out that the entire Morningside group
live at that park and it is heavily used by the Edina Hockey
Association. Ms. Rydell asked if the area would be a feasible location
for a free standing Senior Center. Mr. Keprios stated that is a
possible idea. Mr. Herring noted that the U8 soccer plays at Weber and
always use the restroom facilities there.
Mr. Burley asked what is Mr. Julius doing. Mr. Jenkins explained that
he is very involved in fundraising and volunteer recruitment to develop
Cornelia School and its Park. Mr. Burley asked where do the funds come
from. It was noted that funds have come from fundraising efforts and
the City of Edina capital plan. Mr. Burley asked Mr. Keprios what is
the problem with this approach. Mr. Keprios explained that there is
$15,000 in the 1995 capital plan that is earmarked for further
development of Cornelia School Park, which is what the Park Board
approved upon Mr. Julius's presentation months ago. Mr. Keprios pointed
out that Mr. Julius wants to do something for that particular park every
year for the next several years. Mr. Jenkins indicated there is no way
we can do this at every park. Mr. Keprios indicated that he loves the
momentum and the community volunteerism, however, there is a danger in
putting all of our eggs in one basket.
Mr. Bennett asked Mr. Keprios if he has any five or ten year long range
plans on capital expenditures because it seems to him that as you look
at it there needs to be a balance between repair and replacement. Mr.
Keprios noted that the Jupiter Report addressed those long range plans,
however, the funding requests have not been supported. He indicated
that is why Dennis Maetzold has asked staff to come up with a plan. Mr.
Jenkins asked Mr. Keprios if he would like a point person from the Park
Board to work with him on this. He noted that he would and Mr. Dovolis
volunteered to be the point person.
Mr. Keprios asked the Park Board if they see anything on the list that
doesn't sit right with them. Mr. Montgomery asked if Todd Park was
paved or not and Mr. Keprios indicated that was a big part of the
capital plan last year. Mr. Montgomery asked if we are planning to do
that at Cornelia School Park and it was noted yes, as well as,
Strachauer Park hard surface area and the path at Bredesen.
Mr. Montgomery indicated that there is no playground equipment listed
and there is so much for tennis courts and he feels tennis is just not
being played like it used to be. Mr. Keprios explained that a lot of
the playground equipment is really old and some of it has to be removed,
however, there is a lot of equipment that is still usable. He then
01
pointed out that the tennis courts, if we don't repair them, are not
even going to be usable.
Mr. Burley asked what is the biggest reason that the Braemar tennis
courts are being ripped up and Mr. Keprios explained because of lack of
tennis court use and lack of available funding. He explained that the
courts, which were constructed in 1979, had to be completely rebuilt or
torn out. He stated that he hopes that we do not remove any more park
amenities due to budget constraints.
Mr. Jenkins asked Mr. Montgomery if the funds were available would he
have a problem spending $100,000. Mr. Montgomery indicated that he has
a problem spending half of it on tennis courts when there are so few
people using them. He noted that he feels there are other things the
community needs such as sand volleyball courts.
Mr. Crowther indicated that if we go out and rip out half of our tennis
courts we would fill up the Council Chambers again with residents saying
they are paying all of this money to live in Edina and they want tennis
courts even if they are not being used. Mr. Crowther indicated that
whether they are used or not we need to maintain them because people
expect them. He noted that maybe we can do three this year and cut some
of the money out and put it towards another project. However, he has a
hard time seeing us not repair the tennis courts.
Mr. Burley asked how many courts are there and it was noted there are 15
pair. Mr. Jenkins indicated that he wants to do everything we can but
maybe we should only have 13 pair and keep those up to speed. Mr.
Burley asked if we need to repair 3 to 4 sets of courts each year on a
regular basis.
Mr. Crowther stated that, as part of the big picture, we are going to
have to work with the City Council to try and figure out a way to get
the necessary dollars so we don't fail on this effort.
Ms. Rydell asked Mr. Keprios if the new surface on the tennis courts
will be torn by either skateboards or roller blades. Mr. Keprios
indicated that signs will be put up and the policy will be enforced by
the seasonal Park Ranger to keep the skateboards and in-line skaters off
of them.
Mr. Montgomery asked if there is any way we can come up with any more
money for this year. Mr. Keprios indicated that the 1995 budget is set.
In fact, the Park Department just surrendered $80,000 to help get
through the City's short term financial crisis.
Mr. Herring asked Mr. Keprios if he did three of the six tennis courts
this year would there be a substantial increase in cost to do the three
you didn't do next year. Mr. Keprios indicated it would not. Ms.
Rydell asked which three would be done? Mr. Keprios indicated Highlands
definitely. Mr. Herring asked if that is because of lack of potential
use or because of disrepair. Mr. Keprios noted because of disrepair but
also noted that all six are at a bad point. Mr. Herring asked which one
would be fixed because once it's fixed it's going to get the most use in
10
the community. Mr. Keprios indicated that he thinks they all get the
same use and doesn't know that he know the answer to that question. Mr.
Herring stated that he would like to discuss doing half of the tennis
courts this year and put the other $45,000 into playground equipment.
Mr. Bennett stated that philosophically he would like to see all six of
them done and the reason is he thinks so many things the Park Board does
are for kids and in theory it seems to him the tennis courts would
benefit the whole community.
Mr. Burley asked Mr. Keprios if the Park Board votes on this capital
plan and then if it's yes, it's a done deal. Mr. Keprios stated that
the Park Board should have a say as to how the money is prioritized. He
noted that, as everyone can see, these decisions are not easy ones. Mr.
Crowther asked when do some of the these projects need to be started.
Mr. Keprios stated that they should be started as soon as possible. Mr.
Keprios indicated the roofs are his number one priority and already has
a bid opening scheduled for roof repairs.
Ms. Hall asked what's left to do at the Edina Aquatic Center. She
thought everything was done. He noted that there is a whole list of
needs that have been submitted by Ed MacHolda, however, Mr. Keprios does
not have that list with him at the meeting.
Mr. Jenkins asked, if only half of the tennis courts were done, where
would the other $45,000 best be spent. Mr. Keprios indicated it would
be a toss up but he would probably repair some other hard surface areas
or asphalt paths. Mr. Keprios indicated that he really would like to
see the tennis courts taken care of. In some cases, it's becoming a
safety issue with all of the gaping cracks.
Mr. Burley asked Mr. Keprios if he is asking for the Park Board to
approve the capital plan. He also noted that it sounds like in the
future everybody wants to grind out what our priorities are. However,
for the Park Board to make impulse decisions tonight against this plan
would be kind of tough. Mr. Burley also stated that we need to figure
out things, such as, is tennis a trend that's dying.
Mr. Fee suggested that Mr. Montgomery and Ms. Rydell look at the tennis
courts again since they are most familiar with them and then discuss it
with Mr. Keprios as to whether we should spend $101,000 or $50,000. Mr.
Fee stated that otherwise we are going to get into micro management
which feels the Park Board is not educated to do, qualified to do, or
have enough information to do.
Mr. Montgomery indicated that last year we went through the same process
with the capital plan and agreed on it yet we didn't know that Lewis
Park would be getting playground equipment or that a softball cage was
being put in and those are substantial funds. His question is we
approved this plan and then when some other priority comes up midstream
and the plan changes. Mr. Keprios indicated that the batting cage at
Pamela Park is being funded in part by the Girls Fast Pitch softball
Association. He also stated that playground sites need to be replaced
and it's a tough call on which ones need to be replaced first. Mr.
11
Keprios indicated that he has been approached by a couple of Park Board
members that would like to be more a part of the capital plan and that's
great. However, it's already March and have to get going on some of
these projects because we cannot wait another three months.
Mr. Dovolis indicated that Mr. Fee mentioned micro -managing, however, he
feels these are suggestions from staff. He noted that we have to bite
the bullet and get these things done like they are supposed to be done
but instead we are sitting here and arguing little by little about all
of these items. He noted that we are going to study this to death and
he doesn't agree with that at all. We need to get it done and over
with. Mr. Fee indicated that he feels it's too late to get into it this
year, but he agrees with everyone that we want to look at this process
but he doesn't want to get into the micro -management deal.
Jim Fee MOVED THAT WE ACCEPT THE PROPOSED 1995 CAPITAL PLAN AS SUGGESTED
BY STAFF.
Mr. Crowther stated that he agrees with the tennis court issue but feels
maybe we should only do three this year and see how it goes. It's just
like the pesticide issue, do a few and see what happens. Let's see if
we get more play when they are brand new and go from there. But don't
do them all at one time, phase into it.
Jim Fee MOVED THAT WE ACCEPT THE PROPOSED 1995 CAPITAL PLAN AS SUGGESTED
BY STAFF WITH THE QUALIFICATION THAT WE PROCEED INITIALLY WITH THREE
COURTS AT WHICHEVER PRIORITY STAFF DETERMINES AND THEN ASSESS THE
SITUATION TO SEE IF THE REST OF THE COURTS SHOULD BE DONE NOW OR
POSSIBLY DELAYED UNTIL NEXT YEAR. Dave Crowther SECONDED THE MOTION.
Mr. Jenkins indicated that he feels all six should be done. Mr. Bennett
indicated that by the nature of the motion you are going to have to wait
until the next year because you need to go through the whole summer once
it's done to get back into the habit. Mr. Fee noted that he will take
out the caveat and return to the original motion.
Dave Crowther SECONDED THE MOTION.
Mr. Herring noted that for the record he has a very hard time spending
$100,000 out of $180,000 on six tennis courts. Mr. Fee noted that he
thinks we are all in agreement of that but it's too late in the ball
game to be micro -managing at this point. Mr. Herring indicated that he
doesn't think it's micro -managing, he thinks it's wholly consistent with
the functions of the Park Board. Mr. Fee noted that he's not arguing
that, he's just saying that timing is the issue, this should be done in
October and not in March.
Ms. Hall suggested that everyone take notes as they drive by the tennis
courts to see how often they are actually being used.
Mr. Jenkins indicated that he's caught, he has a hard time spending
$100,000 out of $180,000 on tennis courts. However, are we going to
12
take care of these things and get them done or are we going to keep
prioritize which ones need patching the worst. Mr. Keprios stated these
are very difficult decisions.
The Park Board voted on accepting the staff's recommendation for the
1995 capital plan. MOTION CARRIED 9 TO 2. Andrew Herring and Becky
Bennett opposed.
VII. LAKE CORNELIA PARK PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT PLAN
Mr. Keprios indicated that, based on the previous discussions, he will
need to provide the Park Board with a lot more information on this topic
before making a recommendation. Therefore, he would like it to be
tabled for a future meeting.
Mr. Keprios asked Ms. Hall about the Federated Women's vote on the Lake
Cornelia playground project. Ms. Hall noted that they are voting on
this Thursday night. She noted that it is a yes/no vote and it reads
right now that $10,000 is designated to go to Lake Cornelia Park for
upgrading and new equipment. She explained that they are waiting to
hear that if we give you this $10,000 do we keep it in a savings account
or wait until next year and hopefully Santa House will make another
$10,000 and we can add it to that. Mr. Jenkins questioned if the
$10,000 is earmarked to be used now and if it is not do we lose the
money. Ms. Hall indicated that the money would be the Park and
Recreation Department's, however, Mr. Keprios and the President of the
Federated Women would need to decide who keeps it until it is used.
Mr. Keprios explained that the total cost of the new revised Lake
Cornelia Park playground equipment plan is $160,000. Staff is currently
recommending funding from four different sources:
1) $18,000 from the community development block grant money to put in
accessibility items.
2) $48,000 from the City's capital plan.
3) $47,000 from fundraising by the Federated Womens Club.
4) $47,000 from Norwest Bank Foundation matching funds.
Mr. Crowther asked Mr. Keprios if he has thought about next year's plan
and Mr. Keprios indicated that he has and it is equally as difficult as
this year's. He hopes that the City Council will approve an increase in
the capital plan for 1996. Mr. Burley asked if it will be a larger
budget. Mr. Keprios indicated that the City Council approves the budget
and the Park Board will be involved in recommending a short and long
term financing plan.
Mr. Keprios explained that he thinks our needs are urgent and fears that
a referendum may not pass. Mr. Crowther indicated that he thinks the
City Council is of the mind that they are willing to do something along
those lines. He noted that it seems to him that we should approve the
$47,000 right now for the 1996 capital plan, however, we can hardly
agree on 1995 where we've already got money allotted. Next year we
don't know how much money is going to be allotted and we don't know what
the priorities are. Mr. Crowther indicated that it's hard to say yes
13
even though we want the money, it's a difficult situation. Mr. Crowther
stated that we don't even know how much capital funding the City Council
is going to approve for the 1996 budget. Mr. Keprios indicated that
therein lies part of the problem, which will temporarily have to delay
any decision on the Lake Cornelia Park plan.
Mr. Jenkins indicated that at the next meeting we will have more
information and can think about it.
VIII. ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION OF THE EDINA PARK BOARD
Mr. Keprios explained that he reviewed the by-laws to see if the Chair
can be elected in March. After doing a lot of research he found some
old rules that the Park Board lives by and handed those out to the Park
Board. Mr. Dovolis asked Mr. Keprios if these rules need to be redone.
Mr. Keprios indicated that he thinks staff should come up with the
recommended changes or assign a sub -committee to make recommendations to
be approved by the Park
Board.
IX. OTHER
A. Lake Cornelia Fireworks - Mr. Keprios indicated that he just
received a proposal letter from Norwest Bank regarding the fireworks.
He noted that they are offering the City of Edina $3,000, however, they
did list a few conditions. In return, Norwest Bank proposes that the
city pay for the development and production of a poster and have a
poster contest. He noted that the city should not accept the
contribution under those conditions. He noted we do not want it to look
as if it's Norwest Bank's fireworks when they are only contributing less
than a third of the cost.
Mr. Burley asked how much do the fireworks cost. It was noted the cost
is approximately $7,000 a year and that most displays cost between
$10,000 and $20,000. He noted that Norwest is willing to give us $3,000
every year for the next three years. He stated, however, that the other
conditions demand that Norwest Bank be the exclusive co-sponsor in part
for the next three years.
It was the consensus of the Park Board to recommend that the Edina City
Council accept Norwest Bank's proposal with the conditions as presented
and recommended by staff.
X. ADJOURNMENT
Dave Crowther MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 9:15 P.M. Andrew Herring
SECONDED THE MOTION. MEETING ADJOURNED.
14