HomeMy WebLinkAboutPark and Recreation Advisory Commission Packet 10-10-1991Regular Meeting of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
October 10, 1991, 7:00 p.m.
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Minutes
3. Visitor Presentations
a. Athletic Associations
b. Staff
c. Others
4. Report on Past Council Action
a.
b.
5. Unfinished Business
a. Review of field rental policy
b.
C.
d.
6. New Business
a.
b.
C.
d.
7. Commission Presentation
8. Staff Communication
9. Adjournment
Next regular PRAC meeting - November 14
Minutes of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting
September 12, 1991
Page 32
Present: Chair Freels, Commissioners Anderson, Gutzke, Johnson, Waage, Wahl,
Watson; staff Bisek, Blank, Busch and Pederson
Absent:
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Freels called the September meeting to order at 7 p.m. in the
Council Conference Room.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Commissioner Wahl and seconded by Commissioner Gutzke
to approve the minutes of the July 11 meeting as presented. The motion
carried with all ayes.
3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
a. Athletic Associations. See item 5-b.
b. Staff. Rick Busch showed a short videotape of a t -ball game in action
that was filmed by a news crew from Channel 11. He then briefly
explained his work history with Plymouth Park and Recreation to the
new commissioners, which began in January, 1980. He stated that
Plymouth has the largest unofficiated adult sports program in the
metro area. He schedules all of the 5,000 to 6,000 youth athletic and
adult sports games and practices on the Plymouth fields, and he is the
liaison to the youth athletic associations. He supervises the
instructional programs such as tennis, golf, ice skating, t-
ball/softball/baseball, and soccer. He informed the commissioners
that over 200 adult softball teams played on Plymouth fields this
summer, which consisted of eight teams per field per night. This
program produces approximately $80,000 in revenue for the City. Due
to budget cuts this year, Rick explained that we chose to reduce the
number of field attendants assigned to our parks. Instead of one
attendant per park, it was one per two or three parks. So far this
has worked out well, but Rick's concern is that a program participant
or spectator may get injured some time when no attendant is on duty,
which means that the building that houses the phone may not be open.
To alleviate this situation, staff is attempting to have phones
installed at outside locations at all major athletic complexes.
Rick announced that the August employee of the month was Deb Balzer,
our golf instructor. She has been working for the Park and Recreation
Department for two years, and this past summer, she taught 287
individuals the basics of beginning and advanced golf. Her schedule
consisted of Monday through Thursday and Sunday lessons.
Mary stated that the September employee of the month was Danielle
Roskop, a day camp counselor who has been with the program since its
inception three years ago. Day camp consisted of seven, week-long
Discovery" sessions from mid-June to the end of July for kids in
grades K-6, followed by three, week-long "Explorer" sessions in August
for kids in grades K-3.
September 1991 PRAC Minutes
Page 33
Mary was pleased to say that summer programs went well, with no
injuries to anyone, and now staff is busy planning winter's
activities. Fall classes begin the week of September 16.
4. REPORT ON PAST COUNCIL ACTION
There was nothing to report on this item.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Review of 1992-96 CIP. Director Blank reviewed the 1992-96 parks
capital improvement program stating that '92 will be a year of
finishing up projects begun late this year, as well as constructing
some trails funded with MSA money. The Plymouth Creek Park tennis
courts will also be reconsidered in '92. Phase I development of West
Medicine Lake City Park has been backed up to '93, with plans to write
a federal/state grant to help fund it. This means that Phase II will
be postponed until 1994. Also delayed until 1994 is the improvement
of the trail on Zachary Lane from County 9 to County 10. This project
will be constructed along with the widening of Zachary Lane.
Commissioner Waage expressed concern about delaying the trail along
Zachary, in light of the residents living in Harrison Hills who
addressed the park commission earlier this year. Director Blank
indicated he appreciates that concern, but that it would not be
economically feasible to go ahead with the trail and then have it all
torn up when the City widens Zachary to four lanes in 1994.
Commissioner Johnson commented that he supports staff's plan to seek
other funding for the development of West Medicine Lake city park.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER ANDERSON AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER WAHL TO ACCEPT THE 1992-96 PARKS CIP AS PROPOSED BY
STAFF. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH ALL AYES.
Director Blank informed the commissioners that the Council will be
considering some type of community survey when they begin their budget
deliberations. Possibilities could include hiring an outside source,
or placing a questionnaire in the city newsletter, Plymouth News.
Commissioner Wahl asked if HUD money was going to be used to help fund
the 10th Avenue park. Director Blank responded that it would be
possible to use those funds and PRAC could make that recommendation if
they so chose.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER WAHL AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
WAAGE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL USE HUD FUNDS TO HELP BUILD THE 10TH
AVENUE PARK. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH ALL AYES.
A resident living north of County 9 and west of 494 attended the PRAC
meeting and asked if there were any plans to construct a trail from
the area where he lives over to the new Target/Rainbow Foods shopping
center. Director Blank responded that the City is pushing the County
to upgrade and widen County Road 9 west of 494, at which time the
trail would be constructed. Staff suggested that the resident contact
the County highway department for more information.
September 1991 PRAC Minutes
Page 34
b. Review of Field Rental Policy. Director Blank indicated to the
Commission that the City has had a policy of charging groups for field
rental for tournaments since 1981. This policy has been approved by
the City Council, and both youth and adult groups are charged. The
reason the policy is being reviewed at this time is because the City
Council directed staff to look into it after the Wayzata Youth Soccer
Association asked to have their fees waived this past summer. The
Council did reduce the fee for this group by half. As part of
reviewing the policy, Mary did a survey of other metropolitan
communities (Anoka, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Eagan, Fridley and Maple
Grove) which revealed that our fees are the highest for running a
tournament of this type (soccer tournament requiring 10 fields for
three days with a total of 106 games being played). Blaine charged
98 less than Plymouth for running the same tournament. Each
community had a different method for charging (some rented fields by
the hour, by the day, or charged each person participating a flat
rate). Some communities did not have field attendants or lights, and
in some cases, lights were part of the overall rental fee. Mary
stated that the trend in the metro area and nationally is to charge
fees for field use during tournaments. She explained to the
Commission that it costs approximately $1,000,000 to build one
playfield and about $70,000 to $80,000 to maintain it annually. There
are two or three tournaments a year put on by youth associations with
several more involving adults. The revenue produced per year is about
10,000 in tournament charges.
John Danielson, representing Wayzata -Plymouth Soccer,. stated that
running the youth soccer tournament is a very difficult, time
consuming job, although it is also very rewarding for the kids
involved. However, after subtracting their expenses from their
revenue, they made only $100, which was to be used for scholarships.
He would prefer that the City drop the charges completely, and if that
is not possible, to at least make the charges more in line with the
costs. It was also commented that youth sports programs do not make
money.
Chair Freels commented that the City Council has directed staff to
find ways to make money to cover the costs of field maintenance, and
he was surprised that they had waived half the fee for this soccer
tournament.
Libby Fairchild proposed that the athletic associations be asked to do
some of the maintenance. Director Blank stated that this could be a
consideration.
Commissioner Johnson asked Mr. Danielson what the soccer teams had to
pay to participate in the league, and he was informed that the fee was
175, which covers things such as insurance, scholarships, uniforms,
officials, and the tournament.
When asked if the soccer association seeks sponsors for the
tournament, Mr. Danielson stated that the businesses are reluctant to
give, although they do take out ads in the tournament booklet.
September 1991 PRAC Minutes
Page 35
Greg Baufield, representing youth football in the Plymouth -Wayzata -
Orono -Hopkins -Minnetonka area, spoke out against the $5 field
maintenance fee that was enacted by the City Council this past
December and went into effect in January. It charges each child
participating in youth sports if they live in a community that does
not provide facilities, such as Hamel, Corcoran, Medina, etc. His
association chose to avoid paying the fee by not playing any of its
games in Plymouth, which he explained is very upsetting to the kids'
parents, because the majority of the players are from Plymouth. He
believes that charging children to play on Plymouth fields is
completely out of line, based on the lease agreement the City has with
District 284 for the use of Oakwood and Wayzata East Jr. High. He
commented further that according to the lease agreement, a committee
was to have formed consisting of a representative from PRAC, the
Director of the Parks Department, the head of the Wayzata East
athletic department, and the Director of Community Education. This
committee was to establish certain policies, decide on how the
facilities would be used, and discuss things such as this $5 field
maintenance fee. He doesn't believe this committee has ever met, and
he feels it should. Director Blank confirmed that the committee had
never formed.
Rick Busch stated that so far in 1991, the City has collected $2,500
in field maintenance fees from the other youth associations, excluding
the Wayzata -Plymouth soccer association, which hasn't paid yet, but
intends to.
Commissioner Watson stated she is against charging the $5 fee, because
it seems to be creating very bad feelings toward the City, and doesn't
come close to covering the costs to maintain even one field. She
agrees that some charges are appropriate, such as field striping,
lights, and attendants, but beyond that, she believes the City should
be covering the everyday field maintenance expenses.
Commissioner Wahl agreed that no field maintenance fees should be
charged to youth associations, and he suggested that the City research
getting contributions from the other communities that do not provide
similar facilities.
Chair Freels informed the newest commissioners that the PRAC members
in office in 1990 chose not to take a position on field maintenance
fees out of concern that even mentioning it would prompt the City
Council to act on it. But now that it has been implemented, he too
feels it is inappropriate and is in favor of dropping it.
A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER GUTZKE AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
WATSON TO RECOMMEND THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RESCIND THE $5 FIELD
MAINTENANCE FEE. Discussion followed that perhaps the motion should
include an effective date. Commissioner Gutzke withdrew the first
motion and introduced a second MOTION RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY
COUNCIL RESCIND THE $5 FIELD MAINTENANCE FEE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1,
1992. THE MOTION WAS SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER WATSON. MOTION CARRIED
WITH SIX AYES. COMMISSIONER WAAGE ABSTAINED, BECAUSE SHE WAS NOT
PRESENT DURING THE MAIN DISCUSSION.
September 1991 PRAC Minutes
Page 36
Director Blank said that he would research the lease agreement prior
to the October meeting in reference to the committee mentioned by Greg
Baufield. Eric's recollection was that the lease agreement referred
more to the use of the buildings than it did to the use of fields.
There was additional discussion at this point on the charges assessed
to youth associations putting on tournaments. Director Blank stated
that PRAC needs to decide if they favor no fee, charging a flat rate
to use the fields, with extra charges for special services, such as
field striping, lights, field attendants, etc. He reminded the
commissioners that the youth soccer tournament is the largest
tournament held in Plymouth, with the most games being played on the
most fields over a relatively short period of time, usually two or
three days. If any rain occurs delaying games, the impact on the
fields is even greater, and a lot of damage to a soccer field can
occur. Commissioner Watson asked if we could charge a damage deposit
and Rick stated we do charge adult groups a damage deposit, but so
far, we do not charge the youth associations.
Director Blank stated that any decision made on tournament charges
must cover all youth associations using fields - football, soccer,
baseball, softball etc. Currently, soccer/football groups are charged
more, because they are using larger areas of turf and more expenses
are incurred.
Chair Freels suggested tabling this item until the October meeting,
and requested that staff compile some information for PRAC on what we
currently charge youth groups and what expenses the City incurs when a
tournament is run on Plymouth fields. Rick said that he would send
each commissioner a copy of our current field rental policy which is
updated on an annual basis, usually in January and is presented to the
City Council for their approval.
6. NEW BUSINESS
There was no new business to discuss.
7. COMMISSION PRESENTATION
Chair Freels asked if any commissioners would be available to attend the
October 7 City Council meeting to represent PRAC. Mark Wahl volunteered.
Commissioner Anderson was asked to chair the October 10 PRAC meeting,
because Chair Freels will be out of town.
8. STAFF COMMUNICATION
Director Blank indicated that work is proceeding on the two new
playfields, and that work is expected to begin the week of September 16 on
six trail segments located in various parts of the city.
9. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:37 p.m.
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447
DATE: October 8, 1991
TO: PRAC
FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation k_r
SUBJECT: FIELD RENTAL POLICIES
Since last month's Commission meeting, you should have received a copy of the
current Facility Rental Policies. This was the policy that staff was
following in determining costs for the 1991 Wayzata -Plymouth Soccer
Association Annual Tournament. The Council cut the fee in half for the year
1991, and directed the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission to make a
recommendation to them regarding this policy prior to their annual budget
deliberations.
Mary Bisek has called the other communities listed on the survey she provided
to you and once again has confirmed from each department's staff that the
information is accurate as stated on the survey. Specifically, the question
was raised about the facility charges from the City of Fridley. Their staff
has confirmed that the information we provided you is accurate, and that is
the way in which they currently administer their field rentals.
As I suggested at last month's meeting, I think there are three possible
options you could consider on this subject:
1. Continue with the existing policy or some slight modification
to it.
2. Drop all charges for rental of facilities to youth athletic
associations on all occasions.
3. Base a fee on direct cost of maintenance of each facility.
Examples of direct cost would be: labor is roughly $19 per
hour to perform any task necessary for the tournament; field
marking paint costs approximately $4.50 a gallon. There is an
equipment rental rate used to pay for the gas and oil and
maintenance of such items as trucks, trailers and
groomers/painters that are necessary to get fields in
condition for these tournaments. A fee based on direct cost
recovery would be based on requests from the specific athletic
association for any maintenance services that would not
normally be provided to that site during that rental time
period, i.e., we mow the grass at each park each week, so we
would not charge for this particular service.
Field Rental Policies
Page 2
I suggest the Commission focus on option 1 or 3. I believe it is fair that
the City recoup some costs for the extraordinary maintenance which is required
to conduct these invitational tournaments.
I have also attached for your review a copy of the joint powers agreement with
the Wayzata School District. The joint and cooperative agreement, which Greg
Baufield addressed at your last meeting, was originally signed in 1973. This
agreement has formed the basis for two supplemental agreements, which are also
attached, for the development of tennis courts and additional playfield
facilities at Oakwood and Ridgemount parks. Although the City and school
district have, from time to time, officially appointed members to the
Committee since its inception in 1973, there is no record of a formal meeting
ever taking place.
EB/np
Attachment
John Danielson, Tournament Director
Plymouth/Wayzata Soccer Club
j 17030 12th Ave. N.
Plymouth, MN 55447
July 9, 1991
City of Plymouth
Parks.6 Recreation Department
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
550-5130
INVOICE
For rental for. Plymouth/Wayzata Soccer Club Tournament June 28, 29, 30
Field Rental
106 games x 1.5 hours/game s 159 hours x $15/hour $2385.00
Field Attendant
6 hours x $8/hour $48.00
Set-up of 3 new fields
P 2v2Oav/
Painting labor: 2 men x 3 hours each - 18 hours x $19 $34 00
Paint (new fields only): 10 gallons/field x 3 x $5.50/gallon $165.0
507.00
Lights
7 hours x $20/hour $140.00
TOTAL $3,080.00
minus 50% Council Reduction 1.540.00
TOTAL DUE $1 4
0
JOINT AND COOPERATIVE AGREEIENT
FOR RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
The parties to this agreement are governmental units of the
State of Minnesota. This agreement is made pursuant to Minnesota
Statutes, Sections 471.15-.19, and 471.59. The parties are the Village
of Plymouth (the Village) and Independent School District No. 284 (the
District).
II.
GENERAL PURPOSE
The purpose of this agreement is to enable the parties, through
joint and cooperative action, to provide recreational facilities of
the highest quality and lowest cost to their residents and students;
to provide a means for the joint acquisition, maintenance, and super-
vision of such facilities; and to establish a joint recreation program.
RECREATION PROGRAM
Section 1. Program Established. The parties hereby establish a
joint recreation program. The joint recreation program consists of
this agreement and'supplemental agreements as authorized herein; con-
current resolutions adopted by the parties; projects authorized for the
program; and the facilities acquired and provided by the parties. The
joint recreation program embodies the intent of the parties to carry out
the purposes stated in Article II. The general policies of the program .
shall be set forth from time to time in resolution adopted jointly by
the governing bodies of the parties.
Section 2. Facilities. The parties agree, subject to the
conditions of this agreement, to jointly or individually construct,
install, maintain and supervise recreational facilities to carry out
the program.
Section 3., Conformance to State Law. The parties agree that
the recreation program will be conducted in strict accordance with
Minnesota Statute 471.15-.19 and rules and regulations of the State of
Minnesota promulgated thereunder.
IV.
ADMINISTRATION OF PROGRAM
Section 1. Joint Recreation Committee. The recreation program
shall be administered by a joint recreation committee consisting of
one member appointed by each party for an indefinite term and the
Independent School District No. 284 District Director of Recreation and
the Director of the Plymouth Recreation Department serving as ex officio
members with a vote. Vacancies shall be filled by the appointing.
authority.
Section 2. Committee Responsibility. The committee shall make
recommendations to the parties on projects to be included in the program,
including facilities to be acquired and improved, rules and regulations
governing their use, and methods financing the program. The committee
is responsible for the prompt and efficient implementation of decisions
of the parties with regard to carrying out the recreation program. The
committee shall perform the other duties assigned to it by this agreement.
Section 3. Specific Projects: Authorization. Projects in the
recreation program shall be authorized by concurrent resolution of the
2-
governing bodies of the parties. No expenditure of funds, employment
of personnel or conduct of any aspect of the program may be undertaken
except pursuant to such a concurrent authorizing resolution.
MA
REAL ANDPE wt O Zi":'.: -F- v ;: I Y
Section 1. Ownership. Real, personal or mixed property, used
or to be used in the program, may be acquired jointly or individually
by the parties. When such property is acquired jointly it shall be
owned by the parties in undivided interests proportional to the funds
provided by each for its acquisition. When such property is acquired
by an individual party, it shall be owned wholly by such party.
Section 2. Maintenance. The parties agree that the maintenance
of all property individually owned is the prime responsibility of
each party and further undertake that they will maintain all such
properties used in the program in a safe, sanitary and operable
condition. The parties may, by supplemental agreement, establish
a.system of shared responsibilities in the maintenance of such
property. The maintenance of jointly owned property is a joint
responsibility of the parties and a system for such maintenance shall
be established by.supplemental agreement.
Section 3. Disposition of Property. Upon the termination of
this agreement jointly owned property (1). shall be sold and conveyed
and the proceeds of the sale remaining, after payment and discharge
of all joint debts, obligations and liabilities, divided and paid
over to the treasurer of the parties in proportion to their
individual interests, or (2) the undivided interests shall be sold
3-
and conveyed by one party to another subject to appropriate charges
and set -offs for debts, obligations and liabilities. All property
individually owned shall remain the property of each party. Any
surplus moneys of the program remaining at the termination of this
agreement shall be returned to the parties 'ri proportion to their
contributions to the program.
VI.
USE AND SUPERVISION OF FACILITIES
Section 1. Rules: Priority Use. The parties agree to adopt by
supplemental agreement rules and procedures for the use of facilities
by students, city and school personnel, and the general public. Such
agreement shall provide, among other things, that parties other than the
District have first priority in use of recreational areas and facilities
after the completion of regularly scheduled school activities.
Section 2. Rules: Supervision. The parties agree to adopt, by
supplemental agreements, rules and procedures for the supervision of
facilities of the joint recreation program. Such agreements shall provide,
among other things, that each party is primarily responsible for providing
supervisory personnel when the facilities are being used by its agents
or permittees. The agreements may also provide for the direction and
supervision of personnel of one of the parties by another.
VII.
FINANCE AND PERSONNEL
Section 1. Employees. All personnel engaged in activities
connected with the recreation program shall remain the employees of
the respective parties.
4-
Section 2. Expenses: Responsibility. Operating expenses of
the program, including but not limited to,'amounts attributable to
salaries and fringe benefits, costs of maintenance, supplies and other
reasonable and necessary expenses, shall be borne by the parties in
such proportion as may be agreed upon by the parties; provided that if
no such agreement is made, each party shall be responsible for the
payment of the expenses it individually incurs in the conduct of the
program.
Section 3. Purchases and Contracts. Purchases and contracts may
be made by one of the parties on behalf of another, subject, however, to
the approval of the other party,.and such purchases and contracts shall
be governed by the laws applicable to the party making such purchase or
contract.
Section 4. Accounting of Funds. The joint committee is responsible
for the accounting of all funds expended by the parties in the conduct
of the program, provided,_ however, that purchases and contracts of
the parties shall be governed by the laws applicable to each party.
Section 5. Annual Report. The joint committee shall prepare an
annual report of the finances and accounting of the program and shall
submit the report to the parties not later than June 1 of each year.
The report shall also describe, in such detail as the parties may
direct, the status, progress and conduct of the program for the 12 month
period immediately preceding the date of the report.
VIII.
ADDITIONAL PARTIES
Any governmental unit or non-profit organization organized under
the laws of the State of Minnesota may become a party to this agreement
5-
with the mutual consent of other parties evidenced by the execution
by all parties of a copy of this agreement.
IX.
LIABILITY
The parties agree that the primary responsibility for any
claims for damages or injuries growing out of any accident or
occurrence during the use of the recreational facilities in the program
is that of the party having responsibility for the supervision of the
facilities at the time of such accident or occurrence, and agree to
hold harmless other parties from such claims. The parties agree to
carry policies of liability insurance in at least the amounts specified
as the extent of liability under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 466.
F.lq
DURATION AND TERMINATION
The term of this agreement is five years and it is automatically
renewed from year to year thereafter. The agreement may be terminated
at any time by joint agreement of the parties, but shall remain in
effect for such period not exceeding 90 days as may be necessary to
dispose of jointly held property and funds. Any party may withdraw
from the agreement upon 90 days written notice to the others, subject
to the provisions of Article VII.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned governmental units have
caused this agreement to be executed on their behalf.
VILLAGE OF PLYMOUTH
Y
Mayo
BY
j `Manager
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT #284
BY
Chai an`
BY
Clerk
DATE: December 17, 1973 (
Seal)
6-
SUPPLE".ENTARY AGREEMENT NO. - 1
OAKWOOD-RIDGEA.OU 1T TENNIS COURTS
THIS AG_IEEMENT, made and entered into this 1st day of
ril _, 1974, by and between the City of Plymouth, a
Minnesota Municipal Corporation (hereinafter referred to as "City"),
party of the firit part, and the Independent School District #284
hereinafter referred to as "District"), party of the second part,
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the City and the District, in their continuing efforts
to provide public recreation -facilities for their residents and stu-
dents, did on December 17, 1973 enter into a "Joint and Cooperative
Agreement for Recreation Facilities" and now desire to construct and
maintain tennis courts on a suitable area at the Oakwood Elementary
School site and the Ridgemount Junior High School site under the terms
and conditions of said Agreement,
WHEREAS, the District is the owner of said site within the
City which is deemed to be highly suitable for such activity, and
WHEREAS, the City desires to construct three (3) tennis courts
and possibly related appurtenances (rebound area, lighting, removable
cover, etc.) at each of the two school sites as shown on Exhibit A
attached hereto and made a part hereof,
NOW THEREFORE in consideration of the premises and the tennis
court improvements, the parties hereto agree, as follows:
1. The District agrees to provide land at both the Oakwood
School site and the Ridgemount Junior High School site,
as shown on Exhibit A for the development of three (3)
tennis courts and related appurtenances at each site;
U
prcvide an additional parking area for 10 cars west of
the tennis courts at the Ridgemount Junior High School
site, as shoran on Exhibit A; maintain vehicular accesses
and parking areas at both school sites; and further agrees
that it will not alter the school sites in any manner
which would render the tennis courts unusable unless the
parties hereto agree to such site alterations.
2. The City agrees to construct, maintain, and operate three
3 tennis courts and such related appurtenances as may
be constructed at each of the two (2) school sites and pay
for any energy costs related to the use of the tennis
courts. It is understood that in its operation of said
tennis courts the City may charge a fee to reimburse
itself for any costs incurred provided that no such fee
shall be charged against the District for District spon-
sored activities during school hours, unless a special agree-
ment is approved by the parties hereto, setting forth fees
to be charged to the District.
3. The City Park and Recreation Director shall be responsible
for scheduling any restricted use of the tennis courts. The
Director shall give the District first priority in scheduling
restricted outdoor use of the tennis courts during the
regular Oakwood and Ridgemount school hours (September
through May), provided the District requests such restricted
use at least thirty (30) days prior to its intended use.
4. It is agreed by the parties hereto that the terms and
conditions of the Joint and Cooperative Agreement for
2-
Recreation Facilities cited above shall govern the
actions of the parties hereto as related to the con-
str,zction, maintenance and operation of said tennis
coui ts.
5• This agreement shall remain in force and effect until
terminated by either party in the same manner as prescribed
in the Joint and Cooperative Agreement for Recreation
Facilities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties have hereto set their hands
and affixed their seals the day and year first above written.
IN PRESENCE OF: CITY OF PLYMOUTH
I
City Manager
es. 74-150, March 11, 1974)
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT #284
61 Chairman
L
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meetirni of
the C4ty Council of the City of Ply:outh, Minnesota wassieTTonthe
21 ,t day of _ ADril _ , 19 80 The following mer6ers were
present7 Hur}_, Councilmembers_Qavenoort• Hoyt, Neils and Schneider_.
The f 'owing ciem ers were absent: !lone
Councilmember Neils introduced the following Resolution and
moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 80-273
RESOLUTION APPROVING SUPPLEMENTARY AGREEMENT NUMBER TWO
BETWEEN THE CITY AND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 284
FOR DEVELOPMENT OF COMMUNITY PLAYFIELD FACILITIES
AT OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
WHEREAS, the City has undertaken to construct six community playfields within the
City of Plymouth; and
WHEREAS, the Oakwood Elementary School site is proposed as the location as one of
the community playfields; and
WHEREAS, there exists a Joint and Cooperative Agreement for Recreational Facilities
with Independent School District 284 dated December 17, 1973, and a Supplementary
Agreement Number One for Tennis Courts at Oakwood and Ridgemount Schools; and
WHEREAS, the construction of additional municipal playfield facilities on School
District land makes it desirable for the City and School District to set forth in
writing their respective interests with regard to the lease of such property through
Supplementary Agreement Number Two dated April 17, 1980; and
WHEREAS, on April 14 the School Board for Independent School District No. 284 met,
considered and approved Supplementary Agreement Number Two dated April 17, 1980.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Plymouth that it
should and hereby does approve Supplementary Agreement Number Two dated April 17,
1980, for the lease of approximately 21.3 acres at the Oakwood Elementary School
site for the construction of community playfield facilities and further that the
Mayor and City Manager are hereby authorized and directed to enter into this
agreement.
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing Resolution was duly seconded by
Councilmember Schneider , and upon vote being taken thereon, the
following vote in favor thereof ----Mayor Hunt, Councilmembers Davenport,
Hoyt, Neils and Schneider
The following voted against or abstained: None
Whereupon the Resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.
I 4/17/80
SUPPLEMENTARY AGREEMENT NO. 2
DEVELOPMENT OF COMMUNITY PLAYFIELD FACILITIES AT OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
This agreement is made and entered into this 21st day of April , 1980,
between the City of Plymouth, a Minnesota Municipal Corporation (hereinafter referred
to as "the City"), party of the first part, and the Independent School District No. 284
hereinafter referred to as the "District), party of the second part.
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the City and the District, in their continuing efforts to provide public recreation
facilities for their residents and students, did on May 6, 1974, enter into a "Joint
and Cooperative Agreement for Recreation Facilities" and now desire to construct and
maintain community playfields facilities on the Oakwood Elementary School site and;
WHEREAS, the District is the owner of the Oakwood Elementary School site of which
approximately 21.3 acres is deemed to be suitable for development as a Community Playfield
by the City and District under the terms and conditions of said agreement,
WHEREAS, the City desires to construct selected playfield components at said site together
with necessary and related appurtenances as determined by the City which are in general
conformance with Exhibit A which is attached hereto and made a part hereof.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the playfield improvements, the
parties hereto agree, as follows:
A. The District does agree that for the life of this agreement it will:
1. Enter into a lease with the City for the joint use by the
City and the District of that land delineated in Exhibit "B"
attached hereto. Said lease will among other provisions in
this agreement, contain the following:
a. The term of the lease shall be for 10 years, with an
option in the City to renew for an additional 10 year
period, and from year to year thereafter so long as the
property is in use for public educational purposes by
the District or its successors or assigns or until the
property is no longer used for recreational purposes
by the City, its successors or assigns.
2. Not restrict vehicular access to the site.
3. Refrain from altering the school site in any fashion which will
render playfield components unusuable, unless both parties have pre-
viously agreed to such alteration.
4. Grant the City any easements to in-place utilities and permit
connection where deemed necessary by the City.
B. The City hereby agrees that in consideration of this lease it binds itself
as follows:
1. To construct, maintain, operate, insure and schedule the playfield
4/17/80
2. Bear full responsibility for the payment of costs related to the
planning, construction and use of playfield facilities and related
appurtenances at this site.
C. Both parties mutually agree to the following:
1. The ideal playfield utilization is characterized by intense but
harmonious use of available playfields by constituents of the city,
school district, athletic associations and leagues using the facility.
To promote this ideal, general scheduling policy guidelines for play -
field usage will be established from time to time during the life of
this agreement with the active participation of representatives of the
Plymouth Park and Recreation Advisory Commission, City Park and Recreation
Director, School District Athletic Director and Community Education
representatives. Daily playfield scheduling will be coordinated by the
Plymouth Park and Recreation Department consistent with such policy guidelines
recognizing that the school district will have first priority for use of the
playfield for Oakwood Elementary School purposes during regular school hours
September through May). During other periods, priority will be given to
organized youth, young adult and adult participants, in that order.
2. That changing recreation patterns in the City and School District
area may require physical alterations to the facilities and that
following discussion and agreement by the District, such alterations may be
undertaken by the City.
3. That City maintenance crews will be provided unrestricted access
to the playfield facilities for maintenance and repair purposes
and that such maintenance operations shall take precedence over
other uses.
4. That this agreement shall have full force and effect on the date
which the City demonstrates financial capacity to initiate the
contemplated playfield improvements and shall remain in effect in
perpetuity provided that the Oakwood Elementary School site
continues in use as a Community Playfield operated by the City.
If, at any time after the completion of Playfield improvements, this
site ceases to be used for recreational purposes, then this agree-
ment shall become null and void ninety (90) days following the
District's notification to the City.
In witness whereof, the .parties have hereto set their hands, affixed their seals,
the day and the year first above written in the presence of:
WITNESS:
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
Mayor
City Manager
Date
Approved by Resolution No. -80-273
4/17/80
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 284
y1N59,o
ate
Approved by Resolution No.
Exhibit "A"
To Supplementary Agreement #2
Development of Community Playfield Facilities
at Oakwood Elementary School
1. One hockey rink
2. One warming house
3. General skating rink
4. Two tennis courts (plus three existing)
5. Three soccer/football fields
6. Two softball fields
7. One baseball field
8. Shelter building
EXHIBIT 6
FOR
THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH
11ne of SW/a, See 29, 7.118,9,22.
Z5O.tl, /ix of N. a. 00
AIWY4, Shl,4, SeC.29
South line of W 410.00 rf,
N,V,4,S1V,V4, 5e 2,9
200 0 200 I W1
SCALE IN FEET
1PD
COUNTY
r
DESCRIPTION
That part of the Most Melt of the Southwest Quarter of Section 29, Township 11E, Range 22, Hennepin County,
Minnesota, described as follows:
Beginning at the intersection of the east line of said West Half of the Southwest Quarter and the south line
of the north 410.00 feet of the Northwest Quarter Of said Southwest Quarter; thence southerly along said east
line 1282.56 feet to the center line of County Road No. 6; thence westerly deflecting to the right 95 degrees
35 minutes along said center line 100.48 feet; thence northerly, parallel with said east line 326.85 feet;
thence westerly at a right angle 462.00 feet; thence northerly, parallel with said east line 377.00 feet;
thence westerly at a right angle 100.00 feet; thence northerly, parallel with said east line 100.00 feet;
thence westerly deflecting to the left 76 degrees 30 minutes, 662.4 feet, more or less, to the west line of
said Southwest Quarter; thence northerly along said west line to a point distance 143.82 fee-, southerly from
the northwest corner of said Southwest Quarter; thence easterly deflecting to the right 77 degrees 22 minutes
419.53 feet to the South line of the north 66.00 feet of the Northwest Quarter of said Southwest Quarter;
thence easterly along said south line to the west line of the east 105.00 feet of the Northwest Quarter of
Said Southwest Quarter; thence southerly along said west line to the south line of the north 410.00 feet Of
the Northwest Quarter of said Southwest Quarter; thence easterly along said south line to the Point Of
beginning.
I hersby owlify Hot this eshfbst ""wed
by me,orundw my dirset ups"ision and
that loin a duty ReVistoned sand Surveyor
under the ioss of it* Stott of Minnosota.
Deft Beg. No. A?C<fc
6-80/2
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 284 WAYZATA, MINNESOTA
AY ZATg 210 D. NORTH STATE HIGHWAY 101 55391
PUBLIC
SCHOOLS ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES
e _ (612) 473-4621
Manch 2, 1982
Frank Boyles, Assistant City Manager
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 Ptymouth Boutevand
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447
Dean Mr. Boyte6:
In Aesponse to your January 8, 1982, le -tier Aegandi.ng .the Joint Recreation
Committee cheated by .the Joint PoweAz Agreement between .the City o4
Ptymouth and the Wayzata School Dizttict, we have named the 4o.Ptow.ing
school disthict representatives:
Jim Brandt, Community Education Senv.ica Director
OAKWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
17340 County Road 6
Plymouth, MN 55447
Jim Graven, Athtetic Director
WAYZATA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
305 V.icksbuAg Lane
Plymouth, MN 55447
Thank you 4or advising us o4 the appointment o4 Eric Btank and Counci.t-
membeA PatA c.ia. Moen 4rom the City o4 Ptymouth to this Committee. We
recognize that the committee has been dormant since .its inception .in
1975; howevelE, we do agree that it zhoued stand ready to seAve should
the need aAise.
Shoutd any add.i Banat .in4ormation be Aequiked, please let us know.
S,incerety,
Thomas A. Brodie
Acting SupeAintendent o4 Schoot6
TAB:Imb
cc: Jim Brandt
Jim Graven
EA.ic Blank
PatA iaia Moen
1991 Facility Rentals
Zachary Softball Tournaments
4/27 & 28 Trygs 600
5/4 & 5 Mike Opat (cancelled) 5
5/18 & 19 Honeywell I 600
6/8 & 9 Honeywell Employees 600
6/29 & 30 Prudential (cancelled) 5
7/13 & 14 Honeywell II 600
8/24 & 25 Control Data (cancelled) 10
2,420
Other Softball Rentals
Armstrong H.S. Softball & Baseball (Zachary) 500
5/24-30 Girls High School Region (Zachary) 395
7/30 Hyatt (Plymouth Creek) 72
8/14 Carlson Travel (Plymouth Creek) 120
9/15 Target (Zachary) 228
1,315
Baseball Tournament
7/26-28 Plymouth/Wayzata (OW, Zach, PCk) $ 307
Soccer
6/28-30 Plymouth/Wayzata Tournament
OW, PCk, RM, PMS, Zach) $1,540
West Suburban Soccer Camp (RM) 250
1,790
Ice Rental
1/26 Ruth Lewis (Plymouth Creek) 60
2/2 Russ Koski (LaCompte) 60
Metro Mach. (Plymouth Creek) 90
Misc.
210
TCRC Car Club (Plymouth Creek) $ 125
TOTAL RENTALS $6.167
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
MAYOR'S TASK FORCE ON
PARK AND RECREATION PROGRAM FINANCING
REPORT SUBMITTED TO
MAYOR DAVID DAVENPORT
AND THE CITY COUNCIL
JULY 19, 1982
DEDICATION
The Task Force wishes to dedicate its work and this report to the
residents of Plymouth, particularly its youth, and to the several athletic
association leaders who have unselfishly contributed so much over the
past to the modernization of Plymouth's Park and Recreation programs
and facilities.
i-
CONTENTS OF REPORT
Page No.
Letter of Transmittal----------------------------------------------- 1
Executive Summary--------------------------------------------------- 2
A. Introduction: Charge, Membership and Process for Task Force---- 4
B. History of Plymouth's Park and Recreation System---------------- 5
C. Analysis of Existing Park and Recreation Operations------------- 6
D. Task Force Recommendations
1. Funding Philosophies ---------------------------------------
2. Phased Expansion of User Fees Concept ----------------------
3. Cooperation with Organized Athletic Associations -----------
4. Review of Task Force Report by Park and
Recreation Advisory Commission -----------------------------
5. Ongoing Monitoring of City Funding Policies----------------
Postscript---------------------------------------------------
Charge to Task Force --------------------------------------
Analysis Grid: General Principles ------------------------
User Specific Sources of Financing -------
Youth Athletic Associations -------------------------------
L
9
10
10
10
12
APPENDIX I
APPENDIX II
APPENDIX III
Dear Mayor Davenport and Councilmembers:
Our Task Force has concluded its study of philosophies to guide the
City of Plymouth's policy formulation for future funding of our evolving
Park and Recreation system. Our major conclusions and recommendations
are included in the attached report.
We are pleased to have been given this opportunity to help contribute
to the quality of life in Plymouth. We learned from this experience and
are looking forward to your review and reaction to our recommendations
during the Council meeting of July 19, 1982.
Thank you for your initiative and interest in our city's park and
recreation system.
Sincerely,
f/l<W
James Rice, Chairman
1-
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On March 29, 1982, Mayor David J. Davenport invited a group of Plymouth
citizens to form a special task force on future funding philosophies for parks
and recreation in the City of Plymouth. Task force members were drawn from
several locations throughout Plymouth with varied views and experiences with
park and recreation programming in Plymouth. The charge for this Task Force
was to examine a wide range of alternatives and potential options for providing
for the financing of recreational programs, including facility operations and
maintenance costs. The committee examined means by which recreational program
opportunities can be financed through various mechanisms, including, but not
limited to, property taxes, participant fees, and volunteer efforts. The Task
Force was composed of Plymouth residents and included representation from, and
worked cooperatively with, the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission and
the Park and Recreation Director. After consideration of the issues noted ab&e,
the Task Force was to present its findings and recommendations for financing
the City's recreational program opportunities to the City Council not later
than May 31, 1982.
Following the analysis of an extensive data and information base assembled
by City park and recreation staff, the Task Force debated the pros and cons of
alternative sources of funding for the five basic components of a high quality
park and recreation system. As a result of these deliberations, the Task Force
recommends adoption of five major philosophy statements to guide future policy
formulation. The funding philosophies we are recommending to the Council are
outlined below.
Additional observations and recommendations from the Task Force are
included elsewhere in this report with regard to: the phased implementation
of these funding philosophies, related to user fees, cooperation with organized
athletic associations, review by the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
and the ongoing monitoring of City funding policies for park and recreation
operations.
As a general philosophy, we would encourage the City to continue funding
the Park and Recreation programs at their current level with appropriate increases
in future years keeping in mind the overall constraints that are being placed
on all the City's financial resources.
The five major funding philosophy statements are:
A. Research and Planning
The majority of all research and planning should be underwritten by tax -
supported resources. This deals with the long-range planning for the total
park and recreation system.
Construction of Facilities
The City shall use endowments, grants, gifts, etc., whenever possible to
underwrite facility construction. When these sources of funds are not
available, the taxpayer should underwrite the capital costs of such
facilities. New construction should include a forecast of operating costs;
no construction should start until the City has agreed to pay the operating
costs.
2-
C. Maintenance of Facilities
The City's financial resources shall be used to maintain the basic level
of maintenance necessary to maintain in a reasonable manner, all parks
and recreational facilities within the system. We believe that the
everyday, ongoing maintenance, e.g., mowing the grass, is inherent
with the City -ownership of any and all parks and should not be cost -
associated with special user groups. User groups shall pay the majority
of costs necessary to cover extra -ordinary maintenance associated with
their group's use of special facilities.
D. Development of Programs
Because recreation is important to all segments of our population including
the young, old, the gifted and the handicapped; the taxpayer should under-
write the cost of the research and development of programs to meet the
needs of all segments of the community.
E. Operation of Programs
Program participants should pay the direct costs and some administrative
costs associated with participating in any given activity. Special con-
sideration will be given to underwriting some costs for the mentally and
physically handicapped and elderly populations.
3-
A. Introduction: Charge, Membership and Process for Task Force
On March 29, 1982, a special "Citizens' Task Force" was formed by Mayor
Davenport to examine and recommend future directions in the financing of City
park and recreation programming.
The charge of this Task Force was to examine a wide range of alternatives
and potential options for providing for the financing of recreational programs,
including facility operations and maintenance costs. The committee examined
means by which recreational program opportunities can be financed through
various mechanisms, including, but not limited to, property taxes, participant
fees, and volunteer efforts. The Task Force was composed of Plymouth residents
and included representation from, and worked cooperatively with, the Park and
Recreation Advisory Commission and the Park and Recreation Director. After
consideration of the issues noted above, the Task Force was to present its
findings and recommendations for financing the City's recreational program
opportunities to the City Council not later than May 31, 1982.
A memo outlining this charge and related issues to be considered by the
Task Force is included for further reference as Appendix I.
While the City of Plymouth's Park and Recreation Advisory Commission (PRAC)
would customarily address this topic, a special task force was convened to:
1. Provide an opportunity for broader citizen involvement in shaping public
policy in Plymouth.
2. Supplement the knowledge and perspectives of PRAC members with insights and
experiences of other citizens familiar with and/or committed to strong park
and recreation programming and facilities throughout Plymouth.
3. Enable concentrated attention on park and recreation financing options as
the City prepares for its first years of operation of a totally new and
expanded system of recreation facilities.
4. Recognize that reductions in state and federal funding of park and recrea-
tion programming may constrain Plymouth's future funding flexibility.
Citizens who served on this Task Force are:
1. James Rice, Chair, 2640 Queensland Lane, Plymouth, 473-5180, Current chairman
of Plymouth's Park and Recreation Advisory Commission,
2. Frank Dvorak, 11745 38th Avenue North, Plymouth, 559-2341. Current member
of Plymouth's Park and Recreation Advisory Commission, past board member of
Plymouth Athletic Association, baseball coach for Plymouth -New Hope Athletic
Association.
3. Jim Alt, 3810 Trenton Lane, Plymouth, 544-6908. Current president of the
Plymouth Civic League, past president of Plymouth Athleti:c Association.
4. Peter Thomsen, 11730 54th Avenue North, Plymouth, 559-2151. Past chairman
of Plymouth's Park and Recreation Advisory Commission.
5. Claudio Groppetti, 1645 Ranier Circle North, Plymouth, 475-2883. Minnetonka
Athletic Association Football Coordinator -Coach, Wayzata Basketball Coordinator -
Coach.
6. Pat Murray, 504 Kingsview Lane, Plymouth, 473-5897. District 284 Baseball/
Softball - past board member, coach.
7. Don Wolter, 10400 39th Avenue North, Plymouth, 545-0007. Minneapolis Ski
Club, Skiing in Plymouth, Coach of Cross -Country Skiing and Assistant
Soccer Coach for Armstrong Senior High School.
8. Tony Vertin, 2255 Xanthus Lane, Plymouth, 473-3664. Minnetonka Athletic
Association Football, Wayzata Basketball.
9. Pat Moen, 2205 Xanthus Lane, Plymouth, 473-6451. Current member of Plymouth's
City Council, Council liaison to Plymouth's Park and Recreation Advisory
Commission, 284 Baseball.
These individuals volunteered their time and ideas during a 15 -week
process extending from March 29 to July 19, 1982. The Task Force met six times
in its efforts to offer recommended policy directions for Plymouth's evolving
Park and Recreation system. Extensive staff support and background information
on the history and operation of Plymouth's Park and Recreation system was
assembled for the Task Force by Eric Blank, Director of Plymouth's Park and
Recreation Department: Copies of this information are on file for review within
the Park and Recreation Department office.
B. History of Plymouth's Park and Recreation System
Plymouth.'s first Park and Recreation Department was organized in 1970,
when Plymouth was a village of 18,077 residents, The first attempt at developing
a park and recreation plan for Plymouth was published in 1973.
During these formative stages of Plymouth's Park and Recreation system,
relatively little tax -supported funds were available to acquire park property,
fund new facility construction, or develop innovative new programming. In
1975, the Park and Recreation capital budget was only $9,860 and its operating
budget represented only $107, 450 or 6% of the City's budget. Scarce tax
dollars were needed and used for such City-wide developments as streets,
sewer system, fire and police protection.
During this time, leadership in organized athletic activities was vested
with parents and community leaders associated with the school districts serving
Plymouth from Osseo, District #279; Hopkins, District #270; Robbinsdale,
District #281; and Wayzata, District #284.
Plymouth youth athletics continue to depend heavily upon close cooperation
with the athletic associations serving these school district boundaries. In
fact, the past Plymouth's lack of athletic facilities for most sports required
5-
Plymouth youth to use the facilities in neighboring communities. This spirit
of cooperation and interaction is expected to be encouraged in the future.
The Task Force acknowledges the critical role these athletic associations
have played in both programming and bringing about the passage of the 1980
bond referendum for new Plymouth facilities, and secondly, the need to involve
them sensitively in the implementation of any new funding policies which may
evolve from the philosophy statements developed by this Task Force.
Since 1978, the City of Plymouth and its Park and Recreation system have
undergone dramatic changes. The population has risen to 32,000 and is projected
to grow to 43,500 by 1990. The City's tax base has grown from a 1975 valuation
of $126 million to a 1982 valuation of $312 million. The acres within the
Park and Recreation system have increased from approximately 50 to 754. The
Park and Recreation operating budget in 1982 is expected to be $632,821 or
12% of the City's budget.
Much has been accomplished in the recent past. Similar progress can be
achieved in the future with intelligent and conservative financial policies.
The following sections of the report summarize the Task Force's conclusions
and recommendations concerning these future funding strategies.
Analysis of Existing Park and Recreation Operations
During the last two years, parks and recreation in Plymouth have undergone
tremendous growth. The division of Park and Recreation was given departmental
status in February 1980. During this time, 12 park sites have been developed
adding a total of approximately 150 acres of maintained land. Included in
this park development are very expensive maintenance items such as permanent
shelters, lighting systems, irrigation systems, etc.
Listed below are some statistics on park and recreation participation:
Recreation Programs
1980-81 Class Comparison
1980
Classes Enrollment
1981
Classes Enrollment
Youth 71 2,237 Youth 106 10,644
Adult 50 840 Adult - 63 1,486
Beaches 23,323 Beaches 11,832
Open Swim 1,055 Open Swim 1,259
of Non -Plymouth Participants in Programs
Youth 111 Does not include figures for Spring)
Adult 227 Does not include figures for Spring)
Swimming 135
Cal!
Each playfield is listed below along with a description of its facilities
and the approximate number of games scheduled there during the past year, (This
doesn't include school physical education class use or unorganized activity or
team practices.)
Plymouth Park: 300 soccer games
25 football games
550 softball games
35 baseball games
25 hockey games
Oakwood Park: 300 soccer games
30 football games
160 softball games
130 baseball games
25 hockey games
La Compte Park: 70 softball games
50 baseball games
Fernbrook Park: 165 softball games
10 baseball games
65 touch football games
Along with the tremendous growth in programs and facilities, there has
been a considerable increase in cost.
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
1976
Park and Recreation Administration $ 5D,333
1977
56,912
1978 1979
32,883 $ 30,153
1980
32,370
1981
E 39,665
1982
59,591ParkMaint. and Environmental 80,130 71,095 77,646 127,828 154,014 237,322 360,558
Total Dept. of Parks and Recreation $130,463 128,007 110,529 $157,981 186,384 276,987 420,149
1982 PARK AND RECREATION
BUDGETED EXPENDITURES
Adminis.
8%
Recreation
Programs 11%
Park Bond
Debt
34%
7-
Pa rk
Maintenance
47%
D. Task Force Recommendations
The Task Force has summarized its deliberations into five major categories
of recommendations. The essential features of each of these recommendations
are presented below:
1. Funding Philosophies
The Task Force believes that the future development of financing policies
within the Plymouth Park and Recreation system should be guided by certain
basic philosophies on sources of funding support. The recommended philosphy
statements have been developed with a recognition of the burdens increasing
inflation can place on the City's tax base and upon the critical role a
strong Park and Recreation system plays in the vitality of a City.
After reviewing the Park and Recreation programs and facilities currently
existing within the City of Plymouth, we have found that the quality of
life in Plymouth is greatly enhanced by such programs and facilities.
We Firmly believe that the continuation of high quality park and recreation
programs and facilities is as important as other services provided and
delivered by the City.
The Task Force has concluded that for the contribution of a Park and
Recreation system to a city's vitality to be maximized, the Park and
Recreation system must have five strong, well-financed components:
A. Research and Planning
B. Construction of Facilities
C. Maintenance of Facilities
D. Development of Programs
E. Operation of Recreational Programs
These "building blocks" of an effective park and recreation system have
several alternative sources of funding ranging from taxpayers to users
to grants. Appendix II illustrates worksheets used by the Task Force
to clarify its conclusions regarding which sources of funding should be
pursued for each of the park and recreation system components.
Recommended funding philosophies resulting from these analyses are:
A. Research and Planning
The majority of all research and planning should be underwritten by
tax -supported resources. This deals with the long-range planning for
the total park and recreation system.
B. Construction of Facilities
The City shall use endowments, grants, gifts, etc., whenever possible to
underwrite facility construction. When these sources of funds are not
available, the taxpayer should underwrite the capital costs of such
facilities. New construction should include a forecast of operating
costs; no construction should start until the City has agreed to pay the
operating costs.
C. Maintenance of Facilities
The City's financial resources. shall be used to maintain the basic level
of maintenance necessary to maintain in a reasonable manner, all parks
and recreational facilities within the system. User groups shall pay
the majority of costs necessary to cover extra -ordinary maintenance
associated with their group's use of special facilities.
D. Development of Programs
Because recreation is important to all segments of our population including
the young, old, the gifted and the handicapped; the taxpayer should under-
write the cost of the research and development of programs to meet the
needs of all segments of the community.
E. Operation of Programs
Program participants should pay the direct costs and some administrative
costs associated with participating in any given activity. Special con-
sideration will be graven to underwriting some costs for the mentally and
physically handicapped and elderly populations.
2. Phased Expansion of User Fees Concept
The City of Plymouth has a well-established precedent of "user fees" within
its Park and Recreation programs. Currently a majority of the recreation
programs are operated on the user -fee concept. That is, participants pay
a fee to underwrite the cost of the program and a portion of the administrative
costs of developing these programs. The adult softball program, through
their softball fees, pays to the City a charge on a per -team basis for lighting
costs on facilities and field maintenance. Other groups wishing to use
facilities for tournaments are also assessed user fees for facilities.
This precedent is expected to be cautiously expanded in the mid -1980's to
other Park and Recreation users and user groups. Particular attention, for
example, is expected in the assessing of special fees to defray extraordinary
maintenance costs for unique or intense use of facilities by users and user
groups. The exact form or amount of these fees has not been evaluated by the
Task Force. Options are expected to range, however, from the purchase of auto
stickers as in Hennepin County Regional Parks, purchase of special access
tickets such as are used in a ski area or flat fees of $2 to $8 per participant
in various organized athletic groups. The Task Force believes such options
should be researched and developed by Park and Recreation staff and PRAC.
Because the future expansion of the user fee concept could be difficult to
administer to such individually oriented activities as cross-country skiing
or picnicking, and because such new policies could increase the costs to
families active in youth athletics, the Task Force recommends a phased
implementation of any new user fees as follows:
a. At least one full year of detailed operating cost data should be
gathered and analyzed by City staff and PRAC to accurately define
costs for various types and sizes of facilities and for various types
of users.
b. Adequate advance notice of pending user fee increases must be given
to all organized associations to whom fees may be assessed.
c. Priorities for phased assessment of additional user fees should be:
first, adult users; second, youth groups; third, elderly and/or
handicapped.
d. These additional fees should only focus on extraordinary maintenance
costs associated with the users' unique or intense demands on a
particular facility.
3. Cooperation with Organized Athletic Associations
The Task Force recognizes the great contributions made by the various
athletic associations to the youth of Plymouth and surrounding communities.
Historically, these athletic associations have developed along school district
boundaries. They provide low-cost recreation in the areas of baseball,
softball, football, soccer, hockey, wrestling and basketball. They work with
boys and girls ranging in age from approximately seven to 17.
Because many of these associations serve multiple communities, the Task Force
recommends that the City develop a policy dealing with ,fair and equitable
reciprocity between the City, school districts and athletic associations.
This policy should recognize the financial burden each of these parties
is responsible for. It is our hope that each of these associations will
continue to provide recreational opportunities for the youth of this area.
If user fees are deemed to be necessary, we feel there are three choices
which should be made available to user groups. These choices are:.
a. The City can provide less services at the choice of the group, e.g.,
stop marking lines on soccer fields.
b. User groups can pay cash to the City for the purchase of any number
of special maintenance services, e.g., marking lines on soccer fields.
c. User groups could contribute voluntary services for some extraordinary
maintenance items, e.g., lining soccer fields.
4. Review of Task Force Report by PRAC
The Task Force acknowledges the important ongoing role PRAC assumes in
formulating Park and Recreation system plan and policy recommendations for
City Council consideration. This role is to be focused on the conclusions
contained within this report. The Task Force recommends that PRAC be
provided a full opportunity to review and comment on this report prior to
City Council action on the recommended funding philosophies.
5. Ongoing Monitoring of City Funding Policies
The Task Force recognizes its ad hoc role in providing recommendations
regarding statements of philosophy to guide City Park and Recreation policy
development. The Task Force is understandably interested in following
how the City uses its ideas in the actual formulation of policy by the City
Council and the implementation of this policy via the activities of City
staff. The Task Force recommends, therefore, that:
a. A formal response to our Task Force report be directed to the Task Force
members during 1982 by the City Council, and that
10
b. Ongoing monitoring of:
1) the appropriateness of the philosophy statements be conducted by
PRAC and communicated to the City Council annually, and
2) the relationship of City policy and actions to the recommended
philosophy statements also be assessed by PRAC and City staff
in their respective annual reports to the City Council on Park
and Recreation affairs.
11-
POSTSCRIPT
The Task Force approach to broader citizen involvement focused on unique
policy issues seems reasonable. This Task Force has appreciated the opportunity
to study Plymouth's funding challenges for its future Park and Recreation
system. Our recommendations have focused upon basic philosophies of funding
support for the five critical components of a quality park and recreation
system. Time will judge the value of our deliberations and recommendations.
12-
APPENDICES
I. Charge to Task Force
II. Analysis Grid
III. Youth Athletic Associations
APPENDIX I
CITY OF PlY .,C), ITH
3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55441
TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800
MEMO
DATE: January 27, 1982
TO: Mayor &City Council
FROM: James G. Willis, City Manager
SUBJECT: MAYOR'S TASK FORCE CN PARK AND RECREATION PROGRAM FINANCING
SU10 ARY: In my budget message which accompanied the proposed 1982
City budgets, I recommended that the Council examine the question of
the City's capacity to continue to provide improved park and
recreation program activities without greater fee support. In
subsequent discussions with the Council, it was determined that a
task force should be established to examine the entire question of
park and recreation program financing and program delivery.
Attached is a draft statement and charge for the proposed Mayor's
Task force on Park and Recreation Program Financing. I prepared
this draft at the Mayor's request and have reviewed it with him. He
has requested that it be placed on the Council's agenda for their
review and comment prior to his proceeding to appoint members to the
proposed task force.
iw.- jm
attach
layor'.s Task Force an Park end Rerreaticm Program Financing
Ba round
The City Council by law must make basic policy decisions with respect to the
allocation of community fiscal resources. State law prescribes the limits
to which the City can levy and collect taxes. At the current time, the City
is levying the maximun authorized by law and it is not anticipated by theCouncilthatadditionallevycapacitywillbeauthorizedbythestate
legislature. In fact, the City is likely to be faced with even more
restrictions on its ability to generate revenues with the property tax.
Accordingly, the Council is, seeking ways to continue essential city
services, while at the same time seeking to meet citizen demands for
improved and expanded leisure time recreational activities and facilities.
While basic public safety responsibilities are the Council's primary
priority and responsibility, it recognizes the importance of providing
additional services which increase the quality of our life individually, as
well as collectively in our community.
The City Council has previously taken the initiative to work cooperativelywiththetwomajorschooldistrictsinanefforttomaximizethejoint
utilization of school district facilities for community recreational
purposes. The cooperative agreements which have been executed by the City
and the school districts demonstrate a high level of cooperation between
these independent governmental agencies in seeking to serve the c=mon good
of all citizens.
The 1980 City bond issue for park improvements has enabled the City torapidlyanddramaticallyexpanditsparkandrecreationfacilitybasetoservetherecreationalneedsofalargesegmentofourcommunity.
Additional facilities will be required to meet the growth in the years ahead
beyond 1990. Additional neighborhood parks and trails are currently
deemed to be high Council priorities. Funis for these capital projects will
come from City park dedication funds, grants and local property taxes or
future voter approved bond proceeds. At the current time, park dedicaion
fees appear to be the most likely funding source for future neighborhood
park and trail improvements. Cperational and maintenance costs for
existing, as well as future facilities, will owe primarily from property
taxes and/or user fees.
Issues:
1. To what extent does the City's recreational programs provide a generalbenefittothecomnunityatlargeascomparedtoaspecialbenefitto
the direct participants? Should the community at large be obligated to
pay for some portion of recreational programs provided to benefit a
segment of the general population? If so, can reasonable standards for
such general benefit participation be established?
2. Does the City have a role in providing for the leisure time and/or
recreational activities of its citizens? Is so, what should that role
be?.
rlayor's 'i'asn : t,:w ut Park &0 Recraation rTogLem
Page Two
3. How can or should City recreation programs be provided by other groups,
agencies or volunteers as compared with direct City program delivery?
4. Are there other appropriate ways of financing City recreation programs
which are not currently being utilized?
S. Can existing recreational programs be more effectively managed and/or
delivered so as to reduce the City's costs?
6. Vhat mechanisms can be employed by the City to insure program continuity
in the years ahead?
7. "-If recreational programs are paid for by a combination of fees and
property taxes, should non-residents be "subsidized" by City property
taxpayers or should they pay higher fees than residents.
8. Should more intense users of the City's recreational facilities be
obligated to share in the direct costs of operating and/or maintaining
these facilities?
Charge
The Task Force is charged with the task of examining a wide range of
alternatives and potential options for providing for the financing of
recreational programs, including facility operations and maintenance costs.
The committee shall • examine means by which recreational program
opportunities can be financed through various mechanisms, including, but not
limited to, property taxes, participant fees, and volunteer efforts. The
task force shall be c rposed of Plymouth residents and shall include
representation from, and work cooperatively with, the Park and Recreation
Advisory Commission and the Park and Recreation Director. After
consideration of the issues noted above, the task force shall present its
findings and recommendations for financing the City's recreational program
opportunities to the City Council not later than May 31, 1982.
APPENDIX II
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b&P (3 F) 670)
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These numbers are a combined average of the percentage of costs each Task Force member
assigned to sources of financing for park and recreation activities.
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SovAcp,s of FIAIA ACIAJ6
gme,siriA,c eee4 G eOv s
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Jur ' 100 40
490
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9b 9° 3,0JA64474
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as jb tT
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to
90
These figures represent the percent of costs assigned by Task Force memaers wnicn
they thought would be a user group's fair share. The "0" means all Task Force
members thought the City should pay these costs.
APPENDIX III
YOUTH ATHLETIC ASSOCIATIONS AND SPORTS CLUBS SERVING PLYMOUTH RESIDENTS
The City of Plymouth, due to its size and the fact that it contains parts of four
school districts, #274 -Hopkins, #279 -Osseo, 9281-Robbinsdale and #284 -Wayzata,
is served by many youth athletic associations and sports clubs. The groups
are listed below, along with the ages they serve:
New Hope -Plymouth Athletic Association (School District #281)
Baseball (ages 9-18) 620 boys
Basketball (Grades 7-9) 300 boys, 50 girls
Hockey (Ages 6-16) 500 boys
Soccer (Ages 6-16) 1,150 boys and girls
Football (Ages 7-13) 250 boys
District #264 Baseball/Softball
Boys (Ages 7-18) 560 participants
Girls (Ages 7-15) 400 participants
District #284 Youth Hockey Association
Ages 6-16) 740 participants
Wayzata Youth Basketball Association
Grades 4-9) 250 boys
Wayzata Soccer Club
Ages 6-18) 900 boys, 300 girls
Wayzata Wrestling Club
All Ages) 100 boys
Minnetonka Athletic Association Football
Grades 4-8) 285 boys
Osseo -Maple Grove Athletic Association (School District #279)
Baseball (Ages 9-18)
Football (Ages 9-12)
Osseo -Maple Grove Hockey Association
Ages 5-16)
Oriole Basketball (School District #279)
Grades 3-9)
North Suburban Soccer Club
Ages 12-19) 60 boys
Skip's Soccer Club
Ages 8-12)
Bozo's Soccer Club
Ages 18 and Over) 35 men
New Hope -Plymouth Soccer Club
Ages 14-16) 22 boys
October 7, 1991
Dear Mr Blank,
I would like to thank you and your staff for putting in the wonderful
walking trail along Schmidt Lake Road and Nathan Lane. I walk this area
every day with my dog Elmo and this new trail has made it so enjoyable,
as well as safer for us both.
As a resident of Hennepin County I have always been so proud of our
Parks and all the paths that twist through neighborhoods, Parks and
wilderness areas.
Thank you again for this new trail and all the trails to be made in the
future. There are so many who value and enjoy them.
Sincerly,
Jeanna Vonier Smith
and Elmo
10435 49th Ave. North
Plymouth, Mn. 55442