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Home My WebLink AboutPark and Recreation Advisory Commission Packet 05-13-1993Regular Meeting of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission May 13, 1993, 7:00 p.m. AGENDA 1. Call to Order 2. Approval of Minutes 3. Visitor Presentations a. Athletic Associations b. Staff C. Others (John Sawina - Concern about Lions Park) Ann VerMeer - Gleason Lake Elementary PTA) 4. Report on Past Council Action a. Approved trail b. Approved selection of consultant for West Medicine Park C. Approved tree planting - East Beach area 5. Unfinished Business a. Community survey update b. Accessible playground update C. West Medicine Lake Park master plan discussion d. e. 6. New Business a. Presentation by MN Disk Golf Association b. 1994-98 CIP - lst draft C. Youth at risk (see enclosed article) d. 7. Commission Presentation 8. Staff Communication (Park tour Thursday, June 3, 4:45 p.m.) 9. Adjournment Next regular PRAC meeting - June 10 CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MN 55447 DATE: May 10, 1993 TO: PRAC I FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: VISITOR PRESENTATIONS On Thursday evening we will have two visitors making presentations to the Park Commission. The first is John Sawina, who lives across the street from Lions Park on 14th Avenue. John's concern is with the youth baseball games being played in a neighborhood park. Both Rick and I have met with John to explain to him why it's necessary for youth baseball to use this facility, but nevertheless, he wishes to make a presentation requesting that youth baseball be eliminated from this park. John originally contacted me last year about a parking problem. I asked the police department to check on this for me, and they followed up with a report, a copy of which I have attached for you. A few weeks ago, John asked me again about the parking problem, and I began working with the engineering department on a solution. We have tentatively reached an agreement that we would recommend to the City Council that no parking signs be placed on the north side of 14th Avenue to eliminate the double parking problem. While I was in the midst of working on the parking problem, John then came forward with his request that the games be eliminated. At this time, due to the shortage of fields, I just don't see the possibility of removing baseball from Lions Park. I have attached copies of the facilities, school district and city owned, within the City of Plymouth, that are being used for youth baseball throughout the community. Some options the Commission may wish to discuss: 1. Do nothing. It would be very difficult at this point to make major changes in the youth baseball program. All the games and facilities are scheduled at this time. 2. Recommend to the City Council that Lions Park be eliminated from future scheduling of youth baseball. This simply means that there would be less youth baseball played, and some children may be turned away. 3. Build an additional baseball field at a new location. This would take both time and money to accomplish. The new field would have to be located at some location which I cannot identify at this time. As far as I can tell, baseball has been played at Lions Park for the past 20 years. The park was built with the help of the local Lions Club in an effort to provide one of the first baseball fields, literally, within the City of Plymouth. It has only been the last two or three summers though that double headers have been scheduled at this location due to the increase in youth baseball numbers. Other than Mr. Sawina's complaint, I have not received any other calls, letters or comments about the use of this field for youth baseball. I think if we can make some improvements in the parking situation this year, it would be worthwhile to pursue. Our second visitors are going to be representatives of the Gleason Lake PTA. The PTA has undertaken a very ambitious program to upgrade the playground facilities at Gleason Lake Elementary School. As part of your work on the capital improvement program, the committee would like you to consider a $10,000 contribution in 1994 or 1995 toward their new playground. A major question in funding this has to do with the adopted policy with regard to playground funding. The first criteria is whether or not this school is identified as a neighborhood park site in the official plan. The answer is no, because Gleason Lake did not exist when the City's comprehensive park plan was designed. I think it's going to be up to the discretion of the Park Commission and City Council as to whether or not the playground equipment at Gleason Lake Elementary School meets a reasonable test of servicing people within a six block area of the school site. The representatives of the PTA have a copy of the existing policy, and are aware of the conditions and requirements for requesting funding. I have met with them personally and have volunteered my assistance and Mark Peterson's help to give them whatever guidance we can in terms of developing the specifications for their new playground area. np attachments Minutes of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting April 15, 1993 Page 20 Present: Commissioners Gutzke, Burk, Wahl, Watson, Johnson, Mikula, staff Blank, Buck, Lay and Pederson, Mayor Bergman, Planning Commissioner Witt Absent: Chair Anderson 1. CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Gutzke called the April meeting to order at 7 p.m. in the Council Conference Room. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A motion was made by Commissioner Mikula and seconded by Commissioner Burk to approve the minutes of the March meeting as presented. The motion carried with all ayes. 3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS a. Athletic Associations. None were present. b. Staff. Staff presentations are covered elsewhere in the minutes. C. Others. Nettie Lynch and Bernadette Walker, residents of the Seven Ponds development, were present requesting that their neighborhood park be constructed as soon as possible. Staff explained that a neighborhood park is proposed for development in 1994 but that the location has not been identified at this time. The process for determining which neighborhood park to build will begin in May, when staff prepares a list of neighborhoods that are candidates for parks, followed by PRAC going on a tour of those sites and existing park sites in June. Staff explained that at the present time, the City does not own the land where the park is proposed, and until we do, the park cannot be constructed. Ms. Lynch and Ms. Walker asked if there was anything they could do to help the process along, such as getting a petition going. Mayor Bergman responded that a petition is an acceptable form of notification to the Council but sometimes can raise people's expectations too far. Again, he reminded the residents that the City cannot proceed with any plans until we own the land. Ms. Lynch and Ms. Walker were thanked for their presentation and invited to attend future meetings of the park commission in order to remain informed on this issue. Mayor Bergman made a presentation regarding youth at risk. He discussed an article appearing in the April issue of American City & County magazine entitled, "Kid Tested, City Approved" and requested that copies be made available to commissioners. He is concerned that some of the young people in Plymouth are not being served by the recreation programs offered by the City, and more needs PRAC Minutes/April 1993 Page 21 to be done. He believes they need a place to go, a place that they feel is "neat" and "cool," a place that offers some fun activities for them. He stated that he isn't suggesting the City build something specifically for teens, but perhaps space in a warehouse or in the former racquetball club located at Hwy 55 and Fernbrook might somehow be secured. He also wondered if the City could somehow financially support such a program. Loretha Suggs, representing residents living in the Harbor Lane Apartment complex, stated that she too is concerned about the young people living at the apartment complex. She would like a place for these children to go during the summer, once school is out, where there would be some adult supervision. She has had meetings with a number of organizations such as the Wilder Foundation, Interfaith Outreach and area churches. They have all indicated their willingness to help in any way they can. She has also met with staff from the Park and Recreation Department to try and arrange some activities specifically for the apartment complex. The Puppet Wagon will be making a scheduled stop there this summer every Monday afternoon. Staff also suggested that the children from the apartments could attend activities such as Playground in the Streets at Plymouth Creek Park, which is within walking distance of this area. It was the consensus of the Commission that they will discuss this issue at another meeting after they've had an opportunity to read the article "Kid Tested, City Approved." Rick McCoy, a 10th grader at Wayzata High School, sent a letter to Mayor Bergman requesting that the City consider some sort of facility to accommodate skateboarders. The Mayor in turn forwarded the request to Director Blank. Director Blank then met with Mr. McCoy to discuss his request and suggested that he do some research on the subject and make a presentation to the Park Commission. Mr. McCoy and two other classmates prepared a school paper on the subject of skateboarding and used this paper as the basis for their presentation to the Park Commission. They also played a short videotape of what a skateboard facility looks like. They indicated that skateboarding is a popular activity among many age groups and that the only place to legally skateboard is at a skatepark in Minneapolis. But this facility is in a bad location and is now going to close, leaving skateboarders with no where to go except the streets and sidewalks, especially the sidewalks in front of retail stores. But skating here causes the store owners/managers to order the skateboarders to leave the area and/or to call the police. For everyone concerned, it's a problem. The skateboarders see the only solution being some sort of PRAC Minutes/April 1993 Page 22 special facility that could be used by them as well as in-line skaters and bikers. They feel that something the size of a hockey rink would meet their needs. Ideally, this facility would have ramps, curbs, planters, etc., the same things you see along the sidewalks in front of stores. Mr. McCoy and his friends realize that insurance is an issue that must be considered. Director Blank informed them that the City's risk management coordinator had researched the subject and based on his findings, was recommending that the City not establish any type of skateboard facility. The risk management coordinator stated that there is no market for skateboard insurance, and that the City would have to assume all liability. Mayor Bergman then suggested that perhaps the City could work cooperatively with a private party as a possible solution, and a way to cover the insurance costs might be to charge participants a fee to use the facility. It was further suggested that the facility could accommodate bikers, rollerbladers and skateboarders, as well as offering some other activities that would appeal to the youth at risk discussed earlier. The Commission thanked Mr. McCoy for his well researched presentation and indicated that they would continue to discuss the issue and staff would keep him informed of their progress. 4. REPORT ON PAST COUNCIL ACTION a. The four additional swings proposed for Bass Lake Playfield were approved by Council and will be installed prior to the grand opening scheduled for May 12. 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. South Shore Drive landscaping. Forester Paul Buck met with the residents in early April and all parties agreed that the original landscaping plan prepared by former City Forester Kissinger was still workable. Paul prepared two cost estimates, one using City labor and the other using an outside contractor. The outside contractor estimate is $5,332 and approximately $700 less than City labor, and he would guarantee the survivability of the plants for three years. Based on that information, it was Mr. Buck's recommendation that the City choose the outside contractor. Figures were also presented on the cost to expand the planting project to include the gravel parking lot, which would include 45 additional plants, as well as removing the gravel and replacing it with better soil. Again, the outside contractor cost was about $130 less than City labor to cover this expanded area. PRAC Minutes/April 1993 Page 23 A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER BURK AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER JOHNSON RECOMMENDING THAT COUNCIL AUTHORIZE THE EXPENDITURE OF $7,500 FOR THE LANDSCAPING ALONG SOUTH SHORE DRIVE, INCLUDING THE EXPANDED AREA, REQUIRING THAT THE CITY REMOVE THE GRAVEL AND REPLACE IT WITH BETTER SOIL. b. Community survey - review pretest. Pamela Schumaker and Rhonda Petrie from the Minnesota Center for Survey Research reviewed the results of the pre-test survey. There was a 40% response to the test survey, which is a good response according to Ms. Schumaker. Based on the responses, some suggestions were made to change a few of the questions, giving people a couple more options for answering. It was suggested that "skateboarding facility/area" be included as part of the question asking what new facilities the City should build within the next five years. Commissioner Johnson suggested that staff inform the young skateboarders that we are including that question in the survey as a way to let them know the City cares. A new draft of the questionnaire will be faxed to Director Blank and presented to the Council. If the survey process receives final approval and proceeds as planned, the full survey results should be available by the third week in July. C. Handicapped playground update. The committee has met twice. Some of the members have children with disabilities and good information is being shared. Videotaping is now being done around the metro area in order to get ideas. d. Athletic association storage space. The fire department notified Director Blank that they may have found some storage space at Fire Station 2, but he feels that it may not be convenient for the athletic associations because of its location. The associations requesting space are located in southwest Plymouth and fire station 2 is in northeast Plymouth. Security of the space might also pose some problems. e. Grand openings for playfields. Director Blank introduced Travis Lay, the student intern helping the parks department this spring. Travis went over the schedule for the grand opening celebrations, indicating that members of the Council and PRAC have been invited to play in an exhibition softball game against the police and fire departments. Other activities include athletic association softball and soccer games, a tennis clinic, musical entertainment, and a visit by Ronald McDonald. 6. NEW BUSINESS a. Reguest for skateboard facility. See Item 3.c. PRAC Minutes/April 1993 Page 24 b. Annual park tour date. Director Blank indicated that he would have a draft of the 1994-98 CIP ready for the May Commission meeting and that PRAC should set a date for their annual park tour. June 3rd at 4:45 p.m. was selected. The City Manager has indicated that he will attend. Council members and Planning Commission members will also be invited. C. Master plan - West Medicine Park - road relocation. Director Blank stated that the 1994 CIP calls for Phase I of West Medicine Lake Park. How the plan for the park develops will be dictated by the relocation of West Medicine Lake Drive. A feasibility study on the road relocation has already been done which shows three possible alternatives. Staff is now recommending that a consultant should be hired to do an overall master plan for the park. There is currently a concept plan for the park that was prepared by Brauer and Associates 11 years ago. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER JOHNSON AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER WAHL RECOMMENDING THAT A CONSULTANT BE HIRED TO PREPARE AN OVERALL MASTER PLAN FOR WEST MEDICINE LAKE PARK. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH ALL AYES. Director Blank stated that a grant proposal to fund the construction of the park may be submitted to the state, however, no grants are available for the purpose of hiring a consultant. Commissioner Johnson suggested that the City look into the possibility of purchasing the small peninsula on the southwest end of the lake. He believes it would be a nice place for people to picnic and didn't think it would involve much in the way of maintenance or upkeep. d. Disk golf presentation. Director Blank stated that a group of disk golf enthusiasts will be making a presentation to the Commission at the May meeting. They are interested in moving the existing course from Zachary park to Plymouth Creek park. COMMISSION PRESENTATION Commissioner Burk indicated that he could not attend the May meeting. Commissioner Mikula stated that she would be at the April 21 Board and Commission orientation meeting. STAFF COMMUNICATION None. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m. A YNhul CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447 DATE: May 5, 1993 TO: Eric Blank, Director of Parks & Recreation FROM: Rick Busch, Recreation Supervisor SUBJECT: 1993 Summer District 284 Ballfield Schedule Evening usage generally 5 -dark; Saturdays 8 am -dark GREENWOOD Cpl 284 Softball M -Th 2 3 284 Baseball M—Th GLEASON 1 284 Baseball Classic Lg M -Th & Sun games & practices SUNSET - 1 2 284 Baseball M -Th & Sun OAKWOOD 284 Baseball M -Th BIRCHVIEW 1 2 Youth Softball T -Th Ridgedale YMCA M 284 Baseball Sun PLYMOUTH CRK EL 1 284 Baseball M -Th WAYZATA HIGH 1 2 284 Softball M -F 284 Baseball Sun KIMBERLY LANE 1 284 Baseball M -Th Community Group Sun LACOMPTE 1 2 284 Baseball Sun -Sat LIONS 1 284 Baseball Sun -Sat OAKWOOD 1 2 284 Baseball Sun -Sat PARKERS LAKE 1 284 Baseball Sun -Th & Sat Wheelchair Baseball Fri 6 284 Baseball Sun -Sat MEMO CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447 DATE: May 6, 1993 TO: Eric Blank, Director of Parks & Recreation FROM Rick Busch, Recreation Supervisor SUBJECT: 1993 Summer Schedule for Ballfields in Districts 281 & 279 The fields are generally used 5 pm to dark on weekdays and 8 am to dark on Saturdays. ZACHARY #1-4 Adult Softball M -F 6-10 pm ZACHARY #6 ZACHARY ELEM #1 & 2 1 MISSION HILLS PILGRIM LANE PLYM MID SCHOOL #1-3 ARMSTRONG #1 TIMBER SHORES BASS LAKE BASS LAKE RB/ds Tournaments NHPAA Baseball T -Ball NHPAA Baseball NHPAA Baseball T -Ball NHPAA Baseball T -Ball NHPAA Baseball NHPAA Baseball NHPAA Baseball T -Ball 1 Osseo/Maple Grove Baseball & Softball 6 T.B.A. weekends weekends Sun 5 -dark M -F 5 -dark Sat 8 -dark Sun -F 5 -dark Sat T & Th Sun,M,W,F 5 -dark Sat 8 -dark T & Th Sun -F 5 -dark Sat 8 -dark Sun -F 5 -dark Sat 8 -dark Sun -F 5 -dark Sat 8 -dark T & Th M -F MEMO CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447 DATE: June 30, 1992 TO: Dennis Paulson, Acting Director of Public Safety FROM: Eric Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation FB SUBJECT: CITIZEN CONCERN XXX/// Last week, I received a call from a citizen who is concerned about the overflow parking on the residential streets near Lions Park during the evening from approximately 6 to 8 p.m. I would appreciate it if you could have someone in your department take a look at this, and let me know if they think it is an acceptable or dangerous parking situation. Thank you for your assistance with this matter. I await your reply. np DP,I checked the park.There is only enough parking for approximately 7-10 vehicles. The overflow is on the street. Vehicles are clearly visible. They are parked on both sides of the street,but there is enough room for a vehicle to get through. It is similar to the parking done in a city such as minneapolis, where they park on both sides of street. The only problem I can think of is when two vehicles want to pass each other, one vehicle would probably have to wait for the other to get through before going through themselves. A consideration might be to put no parking signs on one side of the road and leave the other side open to park.There were approximately 15 vehicles parked on the street. To make an unnecessarily long reply short, i dont think it is hazardous, but could be improved. C. Blad 7-21-92 May 13, 1986 GUIDELINES FOR REQUESTING CITY CONTRIBUTIONS TO PLAYGROUND IMPROVEMENTS 1. Location of proposed improvements must be on school district property that is designated as a neighborhood park in the City's Comprehensive Park System Plan. 2. A well organized site plan must be presented. This shall include the proposed budget, showing itemized costs and any volunteer labor, etc., for the project. 3. The school district shall agree in writing to own and maintain said play equipment, and accept all liability. 4. PTO's must make requests for funding by April 1 to allow the City time to budget funds for the project for the following City fiscal year. 5. The City will only match funds and/or volunteer labor. The City will review each request on a case-by-case basis to determine the amount of contribution. In no case, will it exceed 507 of the total capital costs, to a maximum of $10,000. Priority will be given to requests of 5,000 + $5,000 over two years. 6. City funds will not be considered unless the walking neighborhood in which the park is located is at least -50% developed. 7. PRAC shall prioritize all park funding requests in relationship to all other park projects. 8. The City will give low priority to sites that have received other City funding within the last 10 years. TO: City of Plymouth May 3, 1993 Park and Recreation Advisory Commission Eric Blank FROM: Gleason Lake Elementary PTA Playground Committee The Playground Committee is in the process of redeveloping the existing playground on the southeast corner of the school. We would like the City of Plymouth to consider partial funding of this project. We feel that by redeveloping this playground it will not only become an asset to our school, but also to our community. With our school's proximity to the Luce Line Trail, this playground is frequently visited by many families during non -school hours. Also, families using the ballfield will have a convenient and safe play area for their children. Our committee has been working hard since October 29, 1992. We have developed what we believe is a sound, four phase plan. On April 27, 1993, it was presented to school parents, students and staff and it was very well received. Our goal is to have funding for phase one and phase two of the plan completed by June 1, 1993. We feel this is feasible with existing funds and two fund raisers planned for the near future. Currently, phases three and four are not funded. To reach our large funding needs for these two phases we are asking the City of Plymouth to help US. Enclosed are the items you have requested for review, including a site plan, phases and costs, and a review of funding. We would appreciate your careful consideration of this request. We would like to review our proposal with you on May 6, 1993, at 10:00 a.m. If this time is not acceptable, please contact Susan Gove or Ann Vermeer. Sincerely, Susan Gove 475-0512 Ann Vermeer 475-0055 Gleason Lake Elementary PTA Playground Renovation Plan PHASE ONE Estimated Completion: June 1, 1993 Estimated Costs Update old playground structure (coordinate with new structure)_$ 1,000 Rainbow equipment packs for each classroom $ 1,100 Backstops for two small baseball diamonds $ 2,000 Benches $ 600 Soccer goals PHASE TWO Estimated Completion: September 1 1993 Excavation for new playground structure ar Edging for new playground structure area Basketball hoops Drop shot Paint blacktop (four square, hopscotch, etc. Snowball target Volleyball court Chalk machine PHASE THREE Estimated Completion: May 1, 1994 MM 5,000 V* 2,000+V 1,000 500 V 300+V 500 0- Phase one of new playground structure and swings $ 12,500+V Ground cover for playground structure area (Fibar) $ 26,000+V PHASE FOUR Estimated Completion: September 1 1994 Phase two of new playground structure $ 10,500+V Obstacle course $ 1,500+V Total cost $65,200 V denotes volunteer labor Review of Funding Gleason Lake Playground Renovation Current funds $ 4,500 Fund raiser # 1 Once Upon a Time (Used clothing and goods store to purchase donations given by parents,etc.) to begin May 20, 1993 goal $ 2,000 - $ 3,000 Fund raiser #2 Seafood Sales to begin May 20, 1993 goal $ 8,000 - $ 10,000 Fund raiser #3 wrapping paper sales to begin in early fall 1993 goal $ 10,000 Other Sources future fund raisers Independent School District 284 City of Plymouth direct donations TREE LINE PRELIMINAM PLerk! h I- 35 .I 30 -t tuD' T / r uR u9xE.t5' NEN I V V NEW EXI5TING Bu5Hf5 A5PNI9LT S ( NEW ;, itrNtkaACLS DROP SHOT- 4 EQu/PMENT /3 GLEASON LAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL L AREq I I I EKISTINCr I < r--NTOIST 45 PLAY ) COWwECrEDrD I, EQUIPMENT I Ezi6r,N& srRucru e NE 4 au 5X65 I -TO DE RLMOVED WHEN - fit. XPi PPCt OGk I NEt1 0 Pr1EMr L: BSNtpE dEwf F SAND 4bl. LEy BALL VF0 PRELIMINARY PLPrM TREE t` ^E ,/ z F N NEWNEIJ GLEA50K LAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL t4EW PLAY GROLMD d,Mi age diich '6NCNBgLt rAFGET 3o i loop NEW 81KKSTDP EPI STING (' gSPHRL7 S 1 NEN Tt7HtTZBauS 1 NcwR[nV CROP sHor E4 AREA l; I EY15TINCr Fu5TOgucTMRE1OPLAYICo;,;:EcrEOTo EQUIPMENT i Ex's"N& arRNrn E Ne wBu s"s - 1 -TO BE REMOVED WHEN - z I P,ae.cil I NEW EOUIPHEN iPV R NNSED Z.. L.SVfLI to WLLEYHAIJ- ND/Cg7E5 NEN AREA ANO OR NEWEpG/PNENT NEN snck5m Disc Golf Course Relocation Proposal April 8, 1993 TO: Eric Blank and Plymouth Park Commission FROM: Adam Wright (resident) and Chuck Kennedy (MFA) PROPOSAL: Recommend that the existing disc golf course at Zachary Playfield be moved to Plymouth Creek Playfield. Excluding park maintenance labor, relocation should cost under $500. BACKGROUND Golf disc technology has advanced significantly in the past 8 years. The Zachary course design has not been updated to meet the advances in the sport. Due to this problem, it has been the only course of the eleven in the Twin Cities that the Minnesota Frisbee Association (MFA) has not sponsored or sanctioned a tournament or league in the past 5 years. The primary design problem is the short, tight layout that is too close to other active use play areas and the backyards of citizens bordering some holes on the course. Even beginners can now throw over 200' with the new discs and active players can regularly throw over 100 yards. The ability to throw longer increases the frequency that recreational players' throws land outside the tight Zachary fairways and interfere with other play areas and yards. Other factors contributing to the relatively low usage of the Zachary course compared to other courses are: (a) ineffective basket design for the new discs, (b) it's a 9 -hole course (versus 12 or 18 holes) without alternate tees and, (c) other Twin Cities courses have more aesthetic appeal. The current approved basket has a double set of chains designed to retain the new discs better. Zachary baskets have one set.) Players prefer courses with more holes because the game is played much faster than regular golf (9 holes in just 20-40 minutes). Alternate tees are being installed on newer courses both to add variety and to provide appropriate challenges for players with varying skills. Our newer courses are located farther from active use play areas thus giving them a more natural feel and reducing players' fears of throwing too close to other people. PLAN ELEMENTS All of the problems noted above can be virtually eliminated by moving the course equipment from Zachary to Plymouth Creek. Plymouth Creek has the room to install a course that meets the new standards and will be far enough from current and planned active use areas. The initial layout would include 12 holes. (Apparently, there are 3-6 baskets in storage plus the 9 installed at Zachary.) The possibility to eventually expand to 18 holes has been considered in the two layout options enclosed. Both options include alternate tee areas for most of the holes. Both designs have been integrated with the new tennis courts and parking lot planned for 1994. The standard tees could be identified with existing signs and the alternate tees with inexpensive wooden posts. Marking the front line of each grass tee would be a 4 -foot wide, 2"x12" painted wooden board. We recommend that an additional set of chains be added to each basket to bring them closer to standard design. The chain cost per basket should run about $10-12. This initial move to Plymouth Creek can be viewed as a test to show that, with the proper course design and support, Plymouth residents will play disc golf more actively than they have at Zachary. The MFA will offer to run at least 2-3 events each year open to all residents. The MFA will also show park personnel how to run leagues with the same handicapping system used for adult and youth leagues in the metro area. As this test relocation proves successful, the course can be upgraded by. 1) Replacing the "homemade" baskets with officially approved MachIII baskets ($4500) 2) Installing cement or asphalt tee pads ($1000-2000) 3) Increasing the number of holes to 18 ($2500-3000) 4) Improving the quality of tee signs ($1000-4000) Disc golf provides one of the best returns on recreational investments of any free outdoor activity provided by park departments. There are few outdoor year-round activities that can be quickly learned and played by people of all ages where the cost is low both for players and for course maintenance. Please consider this proposal. Pending approval of a course layout, the relocation project could get underway as soon as park maintenance people are available. Several volunteers from the MFA could be available to help with some parts of the project as needed. Yj Disc GoC.r- c(wtQsG- fRo Pas 4 L P6 YM C)«T-/-( C RE6"K Pc fi yo" t1 pPkoK I MgTV' 5CgCC O /00 200 .200 i+ { "I,F` 3 uR2 C99y) /f u 0 qRN 4011T wytM RED I ro r 2/o 23r s r 7f 9S lbs azo es 2za 33,0 330 3e0 3e0 S 290 oleo 8'o z80 6 910 2n, 2r0 0 7 3/0 3 S yor YS"o 8 6r A lir z/s 43s ydS Sao o Q 2/0 32r 26s 20 2/s Vr 3or 30-C6012- 260 2 3Ss 3Sr ATAC 2890/ 3110' 3S3t I I3P6 AV6• 2V/' I2681 Z9S1 312 yg - /S- rte, g,97 Capital Improvement Program By Project Type Parks 199V Page 16 Program Mai) No. Year Description 1993 Trail improvements 1993 Playfield Land Acquisition 1. 1993 Plymouth Creek Park Handicap Playground 2. 1993 South Shore Landscaping 1994 Trail Improvements 3. 1994 New Playgrounds - Hemlock, Schmidt Lake, Mission and Timber Shores Parks 4. 1994 West Medicine Lake City Park, Phase I (Road Relocation) 5. 1994 Plymouth Creek Park Tennis Courts 6. 1994 East Beach Fishing Dock 1995 Neighborhood Park 1995 Trail Improvements 7. 1995 West Medicine Lake City Park, Phase 11 1996 Neighborhood Park 1996 Trail Improvements 1996 Playfield No. 10 Development 1997 Neighborhood Park 1997 Trail Improvements 199V Page 16 s Parks & f 2ecreotion Kid Tested, City Approved Local parks and rec departments are becoming social service agencies as cities direct them to intervene on behalf of at -risk youth. lizabeth is preg- nant for the second time. Her first baby was born addicted to heroin and placed im- mediately in foster care. Elizabeth is considering an abortion this time, but she knows she can't afford it. She relies on prostitution to support herself — and her addic- tion. She has not lived with either of her par- ents in over two years. Elizabeth is 17. Fifteen -year-old John lives with his mother in a public housing pro - 56 By Brenda Gorski, Associate Editor April 1993 AMERICAN CITY & COUNTY ject. Because his mother must work two jobs, he spends most afternoons and evenings alone. Thus far, he has resisted the drug culture, but he has begun hanging out with a gang; most of its members at least dabble in deal- ing. Elizabeth and John are not the norm. But, neither are they the excep- tion. They are the youths who drop through the cracks in every city and town across the country. They are the kids who inspire at -risk youth inter- vention programs in places like Phoenix, College Station, Texas and Ocala, Fla. Who Is At Risk? Not all at -risk youth are pregnant or involved in drugs. However, the term at -risk" means that the potential is there — for teen pregnancy, drug use and gang involvement. Furthermore, not all at -risk youth live in low-income urban housing projects. In fact, there are children in crisis from every possi- ble socio-economic background, culture and upbringing. They all have one thing in common large increments of unsupervised free time. With more dual career fam- ilies and single -parent households, children currently have more unsu- Golf Courses Offer Cash Flow Alternatives re nation's golf course industry is currently experienc- mg tremendous growth to keep pace with the public's seemingly endless fascination with the game. In fact, the National Golf Foundation claims that a golf course should be developed each day until the year 2000 to meet rising consumer demand. The truth is, some areas are literally saturated with golf courses, while others do not have enough facilities to meet current demand. In those communities with a document- ed need for new facilities, a well -conceived golf course can represent a good solution for lo- cal governments looking to sup- plement eroding tax bases while protecting and maintain- ing open spaces. Make no mistake — the golf course business can be expen- sive. Most golf facilities cost from $3 to $6 million, with higher quality courses costing upwards of $10 million. Debt service alone on investments of that size can create cash flow problems for many local gov- ernments. Courses are also very labor intensive, requiring a minimum of 15 employees for pro shop staff, maintenance crew, management and food and beverage personnel. On the revenue side of the equation, golf courses operate on what is known as a short space-time unit." Much like the hotel industry, golfers at daily fee or municipal courses only rent the fa- cility for a day, as opposed to an apartment or office suite which provides long-term consistent and accountable in- come levels. As a result, golf course revenues can fluctu- ate for any number of reasons, including seasonal and cyclicalconcerns. Perhaps most frustrating of all, mother nature can play a significant role in the financial success of a golf course. In addition to affecting daily revenues, severe weather conditions may also cause damage to the course and in- crease maintenance expenditures. Finally, some local governments may question the wis- dom of devoting substantial land and management re- sources for a game that is played only by approximately 10 percent of the nation's population. pervised time than ever before. Ac- cording to a Carnegie Council on Ado- lescent Development study, nearly 30 percent of eighth graders spend at least two hours at home alone after school. This amount can increase to three hours or more among poorer chil- dren. When coupled with statistics re- leased by the Ocala -Marion County Community Council Against Sub- stance Abuse, the implications are clear. According to this report, U.S. teens rank number one in the world in drug abuse. One out of three teenagers between the ages of 16 to 18 get drunk Despite the risks, a well-planned and managed golf course can generate a healthy return on investment for budget -conscious administrators. Additionally, municipal courses enjoy significant financial advantages over pri- vate developments. By financing the project with tax-free bonds available to many local governments, municipalities can receive in- terest rates four to six percent below traditional taxable sources. The lower interest rates greatly reduce the pro- ject's debt servi^,e require- ments and can mean the dif- ference between showing a profit and running a deficit. Once the course has been completed, experienced man- agement consultants can make sure the facility runs at peak efficiency. By overseeing every detail, from staffing to maintenance, contracted man- agers maximize the munici- pality's return on investment. By working with municipal- ities, developers and man- agers can take pride in pro- ducing a properly sited and administered golf course while the municipality sits back and reaps the long-term financial rewards. Golf courses also recharge the underground water supply and return more than 50 percent of the water used for ir- rigation. In fact, today's state-of-the-art golf course de- signs actually recycle water used for irrigation. There's no question that public golf courses can make money. They are also good neighbors and can even be po- litically desirable additions to the community. Above all, public golf courses provide a recreational amenity and fi- nancial asset to the right community. But, golf course development is not without pitfalls. Communities are well advised to conduct thorough mar- ket research and feasibility analysis. Working with a qual- ified private developer can help ensure that the market is right and the project well planned and managed. Public golf courses can be a financial asset to municipalities, despite obvious risks. This article was written by Laurence Hirsh, MAI, presi- dent of the Hirsh Valuation Group of Harrisburg, Pa 58 April 1993 AMERICAN CITY & COUNTY at least once a week. Suicide rates for 15- to 24 -year-olds more than doubled between 1960 and 1980. These statistics provide a sad commentary on the state of America's youth, and in turn, its future. The Carnegie Council study re- ports that, of the nation's 20 million adolescents ages 10 to 15, half are at some risk of not achieving their full po- tential. Half. It is a situation that cannot be ignored. What Is Being Done Fortunately, cities across the nation recognize the problem, and are actively taking preventive measures. Youth at -risk programs have become a primary concern of parks and recreation depart- ments everywhere. Even small cities like Olympia, Wash., population 36,000, are addressing these issues. "We're still in the in- fancy stage in recognizing that we have a core population of at -risk youth," admits Steve Zoet, recreation services manager for the city. "For the longest time this was a sleepy little town; we really didn't have the same kinds of problems that plague a major are well-recognized as having some se- rious gang problems, and that has be- come a big threat to us because of our location. This is a very at- tractive recruiting ground." Zoet says that to combat this presence in Olympia, the city has been trying to develop attractive alterna- tives for teens. "Six months ago, we started a midnight basketball program, where we close down the gym to everyone but teens. We've also been concentrating on offering a diversity of videos and live alternative types of music. The key is to get kids off the street and provide them with a semi -structured environment," he says. "One of our goals is to provide ac- tivities that have some su- pervision and structure, but not so much so that it will be a turnoff. One big challenge is that the at -risk population does not necessarily have an interest in mainstream recreation programming, and unless you appeal to their inter- ests, they are not going to participate." Yet, according to Raul Daniels, youth at -risk coordinator for the city of In Olympia, Wash., youths participate in Outward Bound, a program designed to bring urban teens into the great outdoors. It focuses on increasing self-reliance and sell -esteem. urban environment. However, we are two hours north of Portland, one hour south of Seattle, and only a half an hour from Tacoma. All of those areas ALAMO A 30 -YEAR HISTORY OF ALAMO LEADERSHIP & INNOVATION ALAMO IS LARGER THAN THE NEXT THREE MANUFACTURERS COMBINED- WHEN COMPARING THE SIZE OF NORTH AMERICA MANUFACTURERS OF HYDRAULIC MOWING AND BRUSH CUTTING MACHINERY BUILT FOR THE GOVERNMENTAL MARKET] ALAMO HAS THREE MANUFACTURING LOCATIONS AND OVER FOUR HUNDRED DEALERS LOCATED ACROSS THE NATION TO SERVE YOU. ALAMO HAS ONE GOAL - TO PROVIDE THE BEST VALUE FOR EACH DOLLAR OF YOUR EQUIPMENT BUDGET. WHEN YOU SPECIFY ALAMO EQUIPMENT YOU GET THE KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE GAINED THRU THIRTY YEARS OF SERVICE TO GOVERNMENTAL CUSTOMERS. ALAMO HAS BEEN DOING MORE THAN JUST BUILDING EQUIPMENT. WE HAVE BEEN FIRST TO PROVIDE NEW PRODUCTS FOR YOU. ALAMO BUILT THE FIRST EXTENDABLE BOOM MOWER. WE NOW OFFER REAR MOUNT AND SIDE MOUNT MODELS WITH JUST ABOUT ANY CUTTING HEAD YOU COULD USE ROTARY, FLAIL, AND SICKLE BAR HEADS ARE AVAILABLE ON BOOMS TO ALMOST THIRTY FEET. ALAMO HAS PROVIDED A NUMBER OF 'FIRSTS' FOR THE MOWING AND BRUSH CUTTING INDUSTRY. FIRST FLAIL MOWER FIRST FLEXIBLE ROTARY MOWER FIRST HYDRAULIC SICKLE BAR MOWER FIRST IN SERVICE TO GOVERNMENTAL CUSTOMERS FOR OVER THIRTY YEARS ALAMO —A Name To Remember And Trust! FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PRODUCT DEMONSTRATION, AND THE NAME OF AN ALAMO DEALER IN YOUR AREA, CALL 210-372-3551, AND AN EXPERIENCED CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE WILL HELP YOU. Circle No. 34 on Reader Service Card AMERICAN CITY & COUNTY April 1993 59 Youths in Phoenix enjoy outdoor adventure activities similar to those found in Olympia, Wash. and Ocala, Fla. ."The teens kept telling us that they want somewhere to go and something to do," says the city's at -risk coordinator. "Teens want alternatives." Phoenix, teens want to participate. We held our first annual Mayor's Youth Summit on Feb. 8, 1993, where we addressed issues such as gangs and guns, curfews, youth employment and collaboration," Daniels says. "There were community leaders and 100 teens involved in this, and what the teens 60 kept telling us is that they want somewhere to go and something to do. Teens want teen centers; they want alterna- tives." Phoenix,popu- lation 2 million, has an effective at -risk youth pro- gram. Its City Streets Program was recently cited as a national model by the Carnegie Council. City Streets is a unique combina- tion of traditional recreation, non- traditional recre- ation programs j and social work," says Daniels "We bring the kids to- gether to do the cool, hip stuff like fashion shows and concerts and sporting events, but we also com- bine counseling, focus groups, health awareness Circle No. 35 on Reader Service Card ' and job fairs. The backbone of the program is in- put from the Teen Council, which is our teen advisory group. They tell us what issues they want to discuss and what kinds of activities they'd be most interested in. The youth board is now even developing a marketing program for City Streets. They're telling us how to appeal to the teens we want to reach." Ocala, Fla., population 45,000, has also made at -risk youth programming a top priority. Bill Patten, substance abuse prevention coordinator for the city, explains, "We have a whole range of programs that address the issues of at -risk youth. The only requirement for participation is that the kids are disadvantaged. Since participation is limited to public housing, we don't bother prequalifying because living in public housing usually means they're disadvantaged." Ocala's offerings range from a STARS (Success Through Academic and Recreation Support) program — which focuses on bringing disadvan- taged youths into established recre- ation programs, such as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Pop Warner Football and summer swim programs to Pro- ject Challenge, an outdoor adventure designed to teach participants self-re- liance, leadership and positive self im- age. Marion County's most successful program is its annual Haunted Crack House. The free exhibit is held in the former county jail and acts out a young couple's drug deal and its conse- quences. Patten says, "The Haunted April 1993 AMERICAN CITY & COUNTY PAR Integrated Point of Sale and Touch -Tone Activated Reservation System. 0 PAR Business Systems 0 PAR... FOR THE COURSE One Montgomery Street, Suite 1450 San Francisco, CA 94104 415) 986.6955 • FAX(415) 986-2267 60 kept telling us is that they want somewhere to go and something to do. Teens want teen centers; they want alterna- tives." Phoenix,popu- lation 2 million, has an effective at -risk youth pro- gram. Its City Streets Program was recently cited as a national model by the Carnegie Council. City Streets is a unique combina- tion of traditional recreation, non- traditional recre- ation programs j and social work," says Daniels "We bring the kids to- gether to do the cool, hip stuff like fashion shows and concerts and sporting events, but we also com- bine counseling, focus groups, health awareness Circle No. 35 on Reader Service Card ' and job fairs. The backbone of the program is in- put from the Teen Council, which is our teen advisory group. They tell us what issues they want to discuss and what kinds of activities they'd be most interested in. The youth board is now even developing a marketing program for City Streets. They're telling us how to appeal to the teens we want to reach." Ocala, Fla., population 45,000, has also made at -risk youth programming a top priority. Bill Patten, substance abuse prevention coordinator for the city, explains, "We have a whole range of programs that address the issues of at -risk youth. The only requirement for participation is that the kids are disadvantaged. Since participation is limited to public housing, we don't bother prequalifying because living in public housing usually means they're disadvantaged." Ocala's offerings range from a STARS (Success Through Academic and Recreation Support) program — which focuses on bringing disadvan- taged youths into established recre- ation programs, such as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Pop Warner Football and summer swim programs to Pro- ject Challenge, an outdoor adventure designed to teach participants self-re- liance, leadership and positive self im- age. Marion County's most successful program is its annual Haunted Crack House. The free exhibit is held in the former county jail and acts out a young couple's drug deal and its conse- quences. Patten says, "The Haunted April 1993 AMERICAN CITY & COUNTY Crack House goes through a drug deal sequence from beginning to end. It be- gins with the couple being arrested and then follows them through what happens. The young man is sent to jail because he has had prior offenses, and the sentencing and actual jail scenes are shown. His car is also confiscated, which really hits home with the teens. The young girl is released into the cus- tody of her parents, and three different parent scenes are acted out — with loving, caring parents, a single parent and parents who do not have time to listen. Basically, it demonstrates the right way and the wrong way For par- ents to handle the situation. Next, the scene shifts to the girl who turned to her friends when her parents didn't have time to listen. Her friends encourage her to forget her problems with drugs, and she overdos- es on crack cocaine. Paramedics try to revive her and fail, and the next scene is the morgue, followed by a funeral home. In the next room, which is a graveyard scene, the walls are covered with artists' renditions of famous peo- ple who have died as a result of drugs. The tour of the Haunted Crack House ends with a room just filled with thou- sands of pieces of drug prevention lit- erature and volunteers on hand to an- swer questions. It's a very powerful program," Pat- ten says. "This year, we had more than 2,900 parents and kids go through. There's no way that we could hold a meeting on the dangers of drug use and get 2,900 people there. But they will come to this." Attendance is a main concern for most program coordinators. As Sheila Walker, program director for the Kids Klub in College Station, Texas, points Midnight basketball programs appeal to youths across the country and offer them an alternative to the streets. out, "Most at -risk kids are unable to pay to attend programs, but there are very few programs that are free." Which, of course, addresses the biggest concern for at -risk youth pro- gram directors everywhere — funding. Most programs are funded, at least in part, by city and state grants. Walker's program received a $3,000 start-up grant from United Way. Her salary is paid by the city of College Station, and the school district contributes both re- sources and facilities to Kids Klub. Be- cause the operation must support it- self, Kids HIub is a tuition -based pro- gram, with a full rate of $70 per month. Scholarships are available based on need, but even those children are asked to contribute $20 per month. Amanda Sellers -Speer, director of youth activities for the Lancaster, Pa., Recreation Commission, says, "We are fortunate in that we won a grant to op- erate a drug prevention program here. Our STARS program is fully funded by a grant we won from the school district through the 'Drug Free Schools' pro- gram. We also receive support from the city of Lancaster, the school dis- trict and Lancaster township. Well al- ways have to worry about funding sources, but hopefully we'll someday get to the point where we don't have to fight so hard." O tTa 1 Flies Gnats Fire ants Mosquitos can transmit Encephalitis Ticks can transmit Lyme Disease and Rocky Mtn. fever Biting flies and ants can cause allergic reactions An ounce of Prevention is worth a pound of cure" PUBLIC WORKS Ben Franklin PARKS SCHOOLS GOLF COURSES RESORTS CALL US TODAY WITH YOUR 1-800-220-0787 OUTDOOR PEST PROBLEM Beecomist Systems Adulticides Pro -Mist- ULV Sprayer Larvicides 3255 Meetinghouse Road • Telford • PA a 18969 1-800-220-0787 •215-721-9424 • FAX 215-721-0751 Mosquito, Tick & Flying Insect EnviroEngineered Control Products for Public Health & Outdoor Recreation Circle No. 36 on Reader Service Card AMERICAN CITY & COUNTY April 1993 61 Ocala's Haunted Crack House walks participants through a typical drug deal and its consequences. The court proceedings involve sentencing and the confiscation of the offender's car—this part has the biggest impact on teens. Problems Behind these roots lies a septic pool It's safe. Non -systemic. Economical, collecting debris and grease that Cost-efficient. And EPA registered. cause stoppages... and lead to costly Vaporooter has been used effectively emergency calls. for more than 25 years. Mechanical cutting will clear the pipe—temporarily. A pruned root grows faster and stronger, forcing YOU to cut and cut again. There's a better strategy. It's called Root Management. Kill the roots and prevent them from returning with SANAFOAM" VAPOROOTER'. Call us today for details on the orig- inal and most cost-effective Root Management System available. VAPOROOTERA iblanulactured by Airrigation Engineering Co., Inc. 1279 Quarry Lane Pleasanton, CA 94566 O.. 800/732-3626 The Future? Unfortunately, for Lancaster and others, the fight for funds may never end. "A lot of programs are funded through community development block grants and, at any time, depend- ing on how tight local budgets get, funding could be cut," Patten points out. "What people don't seem to real- ize is that the cost becomes astronom- ical once the kids get into the court system. For every dollar spent in in- tervention now, a city can save itself 11.70 later on." I don't think state and federal gov- ernments recognize this problem to the extent they need to," Zoet adds. "We're working on the business community to solicit their sponsorship and they've been underwriting some of our pro- grams. But, we're exclusively city funded, and with the state facing a bil- lion dollar deficit, it's likely that even more programs will be eliminated. If any additional funding is going to come our way, it's going to be through the city or through corporate sponsor- ship." Cities recognize the problem. "We know that it's better to get involved early on with at -risk youth versus pay- ing for problems later," Walker says. Kids who are unsupervised are at the greatest risk socially and emotionally. What we need to understand is that all kids are potentially at risk. It's not so much of an economic thing anymore. It doesn't matter if the family survives on 50,000 per year, or $12,000 per year." Cities support the programs. "We do the entire Haunted Crack House with- out a budget," Patten says. "We couldn't do it without the support of public agencies and the cooperation of the city, county and the school system. It's all volunteers. There is a definite need for the services and programs that we offer, and we've received wide- spread community support." The key, then, comes down to pro- moting awareness — awareness that a group of youths who are earmarked to fail because of social, economic or aca- demic indicators don't have to. There are nets out there to catch them, but they will only work if they remain in place and continue to grow stronger. They will only work if cities and parks and recreation departments and com- munity organizations work together. There is potential for civil wars in our inner cities," Daniels says. "Gangs are becoming a bigger problem, and it's not just a racial issue anymore. We need to address bilingual concerns as well. What we need to do is under- stand that if we don't address this, the situation is simply going to get worse. Teens want somewhere to go and something to do, and we must provide them with alternatives. We can make a difference." Circle No. 37 on Reader Service Card 62 April 1993 AMERICAN CITY & COUNTY April 28, 1993 CITY O1 PLYMOUTH Eleanor Haaglund 11510 Ridgemount Ave N Plymouth, MN 55441 Dear Mrs. Haaglund: Mayor Bergman has forwarded your resident feedback form from the Monday, April 26, Town Meeting. On your form you indicate you don't think it's necessary to have an off-road trail on Ridgemount Avenue. The idea of an off-road trail was brought to the City last year by residents who had signed a petition. The Park and Recreation Advisory Commission studied this subject this past year and determined that for economics and other reasons, it would be inappropriate to proceed with a trail project at this time. At some time in the future, it is anticipated that the City of Minnetonka and the City of Plymouth may be making improvements to the road itself. The Commission felt that any further review and discussion of upgrading trail should take place at the same time that proposed improvements are considered for the roadway itself. I appreciate your communicating your concerns to us about this matter, and I will pass them on to the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission. If I may be of any further assistance to you, I can be reached at 550-5131. Sincerely, e l,L cr _ Eric J. Blank, Director Parks and Recreation EJB/np cc: City Manager Public Works Director PRAC 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000 RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear on the Town Meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address, and phone number, we will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern. NATURE OF CONCERN ACTION YOU DESIRE THE CITY TO TAKE ,7--;, _Z3, i 5 1. C PHONE NUMBER:. S ` 7,6- /J 1993 PLYMOUTH TOWN MEETING AGENDA 1. DEVELOPMENT CLIMATE - Chuck Dillerud (550-5059) 2. 1993 CITY SERVICES AND PROTECTS A. 1993 City Service Revisions - Dale Hahn (550-5101) B. Public Buildings - Dale Hahn (550-5101) C. Streets, Sanitary Sewer and Water - Fred Moore (550-5080) D. Parks/Trails -Eric Blank (550-5131) 3. PUBLIC SAFETY A. Police/Fire Report - Craig Gerdes (550-5161) B. Neighborhood Watch Program - Craig Gerdes (550-5161) C. Animal Control - Craig Gerdes (550-5161) 4. OTHER ITEMS A. City Charter - Dwight D. Johnson (550-5011) B. Communication Efforts - Dwight D. Johnson (550-5011) April 28, 1993 CITY OF PLVMOUTR Mike and Nancy Trombley 11600 Ridgemount Ave N Plymouth, MN 55441 Dear Mr. and Mrs. Trombley: Mayor Bergman has forwarded your resident feedback form from the Monday, April 26, Town Meeting. On your form you indicate you don't think it's necessary to have an off-road trail on Ridgemount Avenue. The idea of an off-road trail was brought to the City last year by residents who had signed a petition. The Park and Recreation Advisory Commission studied this subject this past year and determined that for economics and other reasons, it would be inappropriate to proceed with a trail project at this time. At some time in the future, it is anticipated that the City of Minnetonka and the City of Plymouth may be making improvements to the road itself. The Commission felt that any further review and discussion of upgrading trail should take place at the same time that proposed improvements are considered for the roadway itself. I appreciate your communicating your concerns to us about this matter, and I will pass them on to the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission. If I may be of any further assistance to you, I can be reached at 550-5131. Sincerely, Eric J. Blank, Director Parks and Recreation EJB/np cc: City Manager Public Works Director PRAC 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000 RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear on the Town Meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address, and phone number, we will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern. NATURE OF CONCERN held lJn cl=og ACTION- YOU DESIRE THE CITY TO TAKE JIS (G I L //!. S"i P `iI / D lir P4' e ctci `4+ `t -e roa<( qVi b 2u moved L Moth s)r e yQ u s t fl + __¢2,a P(A2 rM 0' _S1 ( o e I PHONE NUMBER: 5 V ` t --' ? -) 1993 PLYMOUTH TOWN MEETING AGENDA WARD 3 1. DEVELOPMENT CLIMATE - Chuck Dillerud (550-5059) 2. 1993 CITY SERVICES AND PROTECTS A. 1993 City Service Revisions - Dale Hahn (550-5101) B. Public Buildings - Dale Hahn (550-5101) C. Streets, Sanitary Sewer and Water - Fred Moore (550-5080) D. Parks/Trails -Eric Blank (550-5131) 3. PUBLIC SAFETY 4. A. Police/Fire Report - Craig Gerdes (550-5161) B. Neighborhood Watch Program - Craig Gerdes (550-5161) C. Animal Control - Craig Gerdes (550-5161) A. City Charter - Dwight D. Johnson (550-5011) B. Communication Efforts - Dwight D. Johnson (550-5011) Nk CITY OF May 6, 1993 PLYMOUTR Howard Juul 3615 Wedgewood Lane Plymouth, MN 55441 Dear Mr. Juul: Mayor Bergman has forwarded your resident feedback form to me for review and comment. In your note, you request to know the status of the trail along Xenium Lane. You are correct in noting that the City's current trail system plan calls for an off-road eight foot wide bituminous trail along Xenium. A very short section of that trail currently exists on the west side of Xenium in front of the Radisson Conference Center. Our plan calls for the extension of that trail northerly to the Cottonwood Plaza Shopping Center. Unfortunately, I am not able to give you a timetable for the construction of that trail. The Park and Recreation Advisory Commission is responsible for recommending to the City Council all matters dealing with park and trail improvements throughout the City. Annually, the requests for parks and trails far exceeds the funding available. Thus, the Park Commission is forced to make tough decisions with regard to which trails and parks do receive funding each year. I will make a copy of your resident feedback form available to the Commission, so they are aware of your desire to see this trail constructed as soon as possible. If you would like to discuss this matter with me further, you may reach me at 550-5131. Sincerely, Eric Blank, Director Parks and Recreation EB/np cc: City Manager Park Commission We Listen • We Solve • We Care 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447 • TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000 RESIDENT FEEDBACK FORM Please use this form if you have a question or concern which does not appear on the Town Meeting agenda to which you would like the City to respond and/or investigate. If you provide your name, address, and phone number, we will advise you of our actions and findings with respect to your concern. NATURE OF CONCERN Odk;/'-C /0N! 0, t/ T11 b'Y i'ke OSP; $ C'i.:-•; iS;rt /; 4Al 71"Ir N l6ffF3C/iC 03 1A i'nn%r•d:( jiCLN rOLi -W-i Tdj-A-- /S p 4 IJ irC! r A'- Jcfl 7D C->:?,=/ d /ulI- CTrf /C•G- xt/i /i /-f-CM i //L /f L-'/L t=.r I _ - IIL= /.!'fi: i., rr:;Lh.cc L'-'/„r!_ / l%GIi E. l•i[-l`J It 71ii'` '>!i/ G;a t /k_-" QcIJSTI<<c7z=1i f. P k:'F B.-D ,%S /1w ACTION YOU DESIRE THE CITY TO TAKE f Z IJ - .1i: i[I:</( / f-. — t 4- ' 15 A Sfrcr t=rc 12c1111j Fa,' 7-11,c NAME: ?`i -47y /:. ADDRESS: '>G r 1~ DGS—! •'.: L q PHONE NUMBER: LL 5 April 30, 1993 CITY OFPUMOUTR Troop 166 c/o Jan Halada 2170 Yuma Lane Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Troop 166: On behalf of the Mayor, City Council, the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission, and Park and Recreation staff, I would like to thank you for your wonderful presentation to the City Council on Monday evening, April 19. It was quite impressive the way each of you were able to stand up and recite your own ideas for making the City's playgrounds more accessible to all of the children of the community. Your troop leaders, Jan and Jeanne, have met with me and presented your ideas in more detail. I will be sharing your thoughts with the handicapped accessible playground committee next week. I'm sure they will find many of your ideas very exciting. Our goal is to have this playground under construction by August of this year and completed by late September or early October. When we have completed construction, I hope your troop will pay the park a visit and let me know what you think of the new playground. Again, let me say thank you for your civic mindedness and your progressive ideas. Keep up the great work. Have a fun summer. Sincerely, Eric Blank, Director Parks and Recreation EB/np cc: City Council Park and Recreation Advisory Commission We Listen • We Solve • We Care 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447 • TELEPHONE (612) 550-5000 May 10, 1993 Mr. Eric Blank Park & Recreation Director City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mr. Blank: It was a pleasure to meet you last week and discuss the process for building new parks in Plymouth. Since we have recently moved to the Seven Ponds Development by Hans Hagen Homes, my wife and I have an interest in the construction of a new City park between the Seven Ponds Development and the proposed Heather Run Project by Lungren Brother's. Our neighborhood has an abundance of children and a new park would be an excellent addition to the area. Please let the members of the Park Commission know of my interest in having a park constructed. I'm sure many of my neighbors feel the same. Any suggestions that you have that we as a group can take to have input for the timing of a new park would be most appreciated. Thanks again for taking the time to meet with last week. Sincerer am sM. Frey a /' 7445 32nd A e Plymouth, MN 55447 475-9187 PAVILION CALENDAR MAY 1993 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9:30-11:30 SC 9:30-10:30 MWO 10-11:30 ART 9:30-10:30 MWO 9:15-12:15 PD 10:45-11:30 FFT CLASS 12-2 LESLIE 11:45-12:45 P&P MICHAELSON 473-3683 5-7 BEV GUDRAIS 6:30-8:45 BCW/ 476-3220 6:30-8:45 BCW/ YOGA YOGA 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 9:30-11:30 SC 9:30-10:30 MWO 9:30-10:30 MWO 9:15-12:15 PD 9-12:30 PSS 10:45-11:30 FFT MARVELOUS MAGIC 11:45-12:45 P&P 1:30-3:30 B -DAY PARTY - EDIE 6:30-8:45 BCW/ 6:30-8:45 BCW/ RHOMBS 557-1196 YOGA YOGA 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 9:30-11:30 SC 9:30-10:30 MWO 9:30-10:30 MWO 9:15-12:15 PD 10:45-11:30 FFT 11:45-12:45 P&P 2-4 B -DAY PARTY 6:30-8:45 BCW/ 6:30-8:45 BCW/ LYNETTE BATTER YOGA YOGA 835-6240 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 9:30-11:30 SC 9:30-10:30 MWO 9:30-10:30 MWO BEACH OPENS 6:30-8:45 BCW/Y 10:45-11:30 FFT FOR MEMORIAL 11:45-12:45 P&P DAY WEEKEND BEACH OPEN 30 31 6:30-8:45 BCW/ FOR MEMORIAL BEACH OPEN 2:30-9 ADULT YOGA DAY WEEKEND MEMORIAL DAY CORRECTIONS FAC. V1 APPLE VALLEY/LAKE. VILLE SUN -CURRENT Ihkonx Co. MAR 0 3 1993 etition calls for more fields Second priority is ice arena By Mikkel Kelly A petition with 3,480 signatures calling for a new youth athletic complex was handed to the Apple Valley City , Council Thursday. ..`•:.... +'^ Jeff Krause, Valley Athletic . Association president, told the council, "We have exhausted our available field space provid- ed by both the city and our schony district. We are cuadmu- ing to use neighborhood parks not intended for organized sports. Commit these funds for a youth athletic complex now while we can still find undeveloped land." The petition gathered in a door by door effort asked that the city build a new facility us- ing some of $3 million in excess fund balance that is available because of pre -payment of special assessmenfs and few defaults =special Responding mesUWson+ N4'.. CoupcilAandv Johnson, parks'mxl recreation director, said the needs express- ed in the petitians.request should be the first priority in park and recreational plans. He said the need for a complex of about 60 acres with soccer, softball, volleyball, and basketball cants would benefit the more than 6,000 young athletes currently straining the existing park facilities. Overcrowding and needs for more fields was studied earlier by the Youth Athletic Needs Committee, a group that also unanimously en- dorsed Jdmann's priority list. Second priority is an indoor ice arena and third priority is additional gym space, recom- mended Johnson. At the previous work session the Apple Valley Hockey Association outlined plans for a $1.7 million Olympic -size rink. Although Krause said non - Apple Valley residents were not prohibited from signing the yeti tion, the vast majority of Signatures were from Apple Valley residents. Councihnember Tom Good- win called the number of signatures "unprecedented" and said he wanted to clarify hat the Rosemount Area Ihletic Association was involy- d because school district lines 1pross city lines and many Fd dmn lend to gear toward . ch high school they will at-' rather than joining their peclive city leagues. g Councilmember Bob triekson, who last November Iliad asked for requests on how Pe city should spend the $3 million excess, said the first step 11111ka o Id be to look at land ailabli and prices. haler in the meeting, $1.5 of the $3 million excess I the special assessment londs fund balance was designated to pay the Central Maintenance Facility Bonds. Using the 11,557,559, saved the city $374,782 in bond payments that would have totaled 1,932,341 between now and the year 2800. Goodwin cast the lone vote against tine measure because he said he wanted to keep more money available to buy land for a new youth athletic eanplex. It would be cutting it awful close" because the land could cost about $1.5 million and ex- haust the remainder, he said.' Mayor Will Branning said other major city parks were ac- quired through park dedication at no cost to the city and said that is one of the avenues thatshouldbepursuedfirst. I y 3 1993 ready t be revitalized Mall tens eagerly abvait decision on community centerl By I)mg Erickson Many years have passed since Diamondhead Mall bustled with the kind of activity common in thriving retail centers. Long stretches of the building stand empty, waiting for elusive tenants. Its hallways can be eerily quiet at limes. Parking is never a problem. So it's little wonder that many mer- chants who've stuck it out are buoyed by the city's interest in turning the mall into a multi -use community center. I think it would be. the greatest thing that eve., happened," said Hank Romnow, owner of Burnsville Flom], one of the original shops in the 19 -year- old mall. I'm sure it would mean more traffic for us, and our sales would increase;" said Kris Collerman, Taco John's store manager. City officials focused on the mail a few think it would be the greatest thing that ever happened. " Hank Rosenow Owner, Burnsville Floral mumtis ago alter questioning whether residents would support construction of a new community center. By buying and renovating the 134,SWsquare-foot mall, the city would likely gain a much larger facility for about the same price white revitalizing an aging retail center, city officials believe. The concept is still a rough draft and must pass several hurdles, including voter approval. If successful, plans call For the renovation of vacant parts of the mall for community rooms, a senior center and servimmlated offices. A pool and gym complex would be added. Some retail businesses may remain on the upper level. 1 thunk people generally feel the concept is a great concept," said Tom Marone, owner of Champion Sports, also an original tenant. The only real concern 1 have Is the time period," Mazanec said. Retailers are essentially in limbo now, be said, biding time during what will probably be a lengthy planning, negotiating and approval stage. And if the proposal doesn't pan auk the mall will have lost valuable time in its efforts to become Mable, he said. I'd like to see (the city) get going on it," he said. Rosenow agrees time is crucial. "Our traffic count in here is very low," he said. If it doesn't Improve, Rosenow said he may consider moving where his tease expires in ill months. "I'd love to stay here," he said. The mail's occupancy rate hovers at aramd Go percenk which doesn't pay the bills, said Huss McGinty of Griffen Dain Properly Management Company, thecourt-appointed manager of the proper - I ly after it entered receivership for financial problems. Even that figure is a bit on the rosy side bemuse it Includes the Seer Valu grocery store and an unattached hardware.store, Moly said.11reactml mall part of the building has an occupancy rate closer to 50 percent, he said. McGinty said he sought out the city, as a potential buyer aRe ecar4 eluding the mall can't cul it competitively. "In my opinion, it won't' succeed as a retail mall; ' he said. } . I t *1 I McGinty said the mall ism longer.puasung "pure retail" tenants but is instead carting serviceorient*d businesses. The exodus last fall of both Snyd'ctDrug Store and Gepharts Home Center further shrank the mall's retail customer base and dampened spirits, many retailers said. hxleed,.the stores that re- tnain seem to survive bemuse of IoyAl customers who specifucally seek them out, not casual foot traffic. j - " I We've always marketed m rselves pa a destination," said Naocpy Banstra, owner of Heartleaf, a six-y1br-0Id gallery of handcrafted •. goods and artwork. Heartiears success will surprise tl6se who think the mall spell' instant doom for retailers. "Everyale thinks we're dying td leave . here, but we're not," she said. "I'll have a real lump in my threat if we ever have to leave." She'd like Heartiest to be part of a future community center . beeause she thinks the city will do it right, "I think the city would be a good landlord," she said. "Burnsville takes a lot of pride in what it. does" However, if the eormnundty center, Idea flops, .don't cry for. He, she said. Hlemstra sees get potential for the mall ' artLsfbecauseof its location and laymiL If the right retail mix and marketing therm are achieved, the mall could flaaish, she -mid. a. i The community center "exdfing, but it's not the end of ! the world K it doesn't happen," she said. ' S it Park beach expanded; canoe racks to be added Summit Park on Long lake will soon have a larger swimming area and canoe racks to make it easier for off -lake residents to calve on the lake. 77re park, near Billy's Lighthouse off Highway 12, is in Orono, and last week the Orono City Councd agreed to a'one-year trial for the canoe racks. We've had requests from residents who would like the racks so they don't have to carry their canoes to the lake every time they want to go canoeing," mid Susie Wilson of the Orono Parks Go '=' . Ifie rack program' will be modeled after one Plymouth operates on Parkers fake. Residents most supply locks and a sane responsibility for loss or vandalism. ue program w e review afle one year to gauge its effectiveness. The swimming -area expansion will be to the east and will in- crease the area's size by another 50 percent. The improvements will be paid for through the Park Dedica- tion Fund, which consists of money paid by developers. Cigarette machines OK'd for bar, sales stopped at golf course If golfer at the Orono Municipal Golf Course want to light up a cigarette before swinging off the fust tee, they better bring their own. Last week the City Council halted sales of cigarettes at the city's municipal golf course, citing a "mixed message" after enacting a smoke-free policy at City Hall. That vote was unanimous. At, the same meeting, the council OK'd changing a city or- dinance to allow Jimmie's I.amge in Navane to sell cigarettes from a vending machine, altering a previous ban on machine sales. Councihnember Diann Goetten supplied the only opposition to allowing the sales. The machines must be within eyesight of the bartender and at least 2D feet from the door. Orono public hearing set on federal grant program Orono residents will have a dance to tell their comleti members haw to spend the city's 1993 share of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money. ne federal money is given to cities for community - development projects, bxhK ing low-income housing grants, aid to city social agencies, city planning, or other infrastructure improvements. In the past, Orono las used the money to help residents rehabilitate hoses, fay for planning services, and help the Weston" Community Action NetWorlk (WeCAN), Westmiat In- tervention, Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners, Rod area senior centers. '. A public hearing is set for 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, at the Orono Council Chambers in the new city facilities at the intersec- tion of Old Crystal Bay Road and Highway 12. EICLVelaa,111111 ORONO/LONG LAKY: WAYZATA/ SUN.SAILORNennspieCo. MAR 31993 S it Park beach expanded; canoe racks to be added Summit Park on Long lake will soon have a larger swimming area and canoe racks to make it easier for off -lake residents to calve on the lake. 77re park, near Billy's Lighthouse off Highway 12, is in Orono, and last week the Orono City Councd agreed to a'one-year trial for the canoe racks. We've had requests from residents who would like the racks so they don't have to carry their canoes to the lake every time they want to go canoeing," mid Susie Wilson of the Orono Parks Go '=' . Ifie rack program' will be modeled after one Plymouth operates on Parkers fake. Residents most supply locks and a sane responsibility for loss or vandalism. ue program w e review afle one year to gauge its effectiveness. The swimming -area expansion will be to the east and will in- crease the area's size by another 50 percent. The improvements will be paid for through the Park Dedica- tion Fund, which consists of money paid by developers. Cigarette machines OK'd for bar, sales stopped at golf course If golfer at the Orono Municipal Golf Course want to light up a cigarette before swinging off the fust tee, they better bring their own. Last week the City Council halted sales of cigarettes at the city's municipal golf course, citing a "mixed message" after enacting a smoke-free policy at City Hall. That vote was unanimous. At, the same meeting, the council OK'd changing a city or- dinance to allow Jimmie's I.amge in Navane to sell cigarettes from a vending machine, altering a previous ban on machine sales. Councihnember Diann Goetten supplied the only opposition to allowing the sales. The machines must be within eyesight of the bartender and at least 2D feet from the door. Orono public hearing set on federal grant program Orono residents will have a dance to tell their comleti members haw to spend the city's 1993 share of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money. ne federal money is given to cities for community - development projects, bxhK ing low-income housing grants, aid to city social agencies, city planning, or other infrastructure improvements. In the past, Orono las used the money to help residents rehabilitate hoses, fay for planning services, and help the Weston" Community Action NetWorlk (WeCAN), Westmiat In- tervention, Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners, Rod area senior centers. '. A public hearing is set for 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, at the Orono Council Chambers in the new city facilities at the intersec- tion of Old Crystal Bay Road and Highway 12. 11115 WEEKEAGAN D.kolA f -n, MAR 7 1993 as a o if private dollars can be raised Arena g Council earmarks $1.4 million for long-awaited Project h d an offer of private Sev By TONYTASCIINER C:3 When the residents of Fagan first voted an a community centertice arena referendum back in the mid -19785, fray Bohn's oldcsl daughter was still in diapers. Today, almost two decades and a pair of failed re- ferendums later, she is a senior in high school and still the city does net have a facility. Bohn, a candidate for City Council last November, told the council Tuesday night that he hopes his youngest daughter, age 8, isn't a high school senior before an arena project is finally ap- prlf all goes as planned, Bohn's youngest daughter won't make it out of grade school before the city has its long-awaited and much - debated recreational facility. By a 7-10.2 vole at its March 2meeting, lbe council approved a five-year capital improvement program (LIP) budget that ear- n;arks $1.4 million In public foods for IM for construction of the recreational facility, whichWill Include a multi -Purpose and wading pool located next to the Municipal Center on Pilot Knob Road. Council members Sandra Masin and Ted Wachter voted against the CIP budget solely because of the arena pro- ject. who by hisMayorTomEgan, own admission is not a great pol- itical orator, gave a stirring, emotion -filled speech In support of the project His words were grceled with an ovation from the standing-rcommnly crowd that packed the council chambers. Wilk respect to fairness we have to look at what we have pro- vided to residents in other areas and what other communities are providing to their residents." Cgon said.... "This facility will provide Eagan with a balance (of opportunity) that cannot exist without it. It will lead to greater community pride and spirit than any other undertaking everundeflakenbythecityofEagan For those reasons, I support of these funds." Egan and the two other council members who voted for the pro- ject, Pat Awada and Shawn Hurler, said they are well aware of the sentiment of residents who twice voted down arena proposals In 1989 and 1992. Unlike the previous referendum -used pro- pcsals, however, this scaled-back arena project will not require that a lax increase be levied against the city's property owners. Under the current proposal. the city will pay for $1.4 million of a project that is estimated to cost sl.as million, The city's portion of the bill will come from its com- munity investment fund. That fund, which stands at shout $IB million, represents interest earn- ings the city received from ppecial assessment bond paybacks during the city's de- velopment boom In the late 19705 and early 19005, About the only thing left stan- ding in the way of the project is s4so,am— the difference between the city's contribution and the total cost. That money must be raised through private donation by the community before con- struction of the facility can begin. The council has given the com- munity two years to raise the ars of the pro- money,butsuppo jecl are hopeful and confident that it can happen much quicker. The next step for the council 1 to Identify the group of People who Will lead the community fund-raising effort. In order t dispell the long -held belief that a arena will benefit only the hike crowd, the fund-raising group t likely to represent a broad base o community interests, includin supporters of ice ringelte, figu skating, soccer and swimming aswellashockey. This is the first time we hav ever a dollars to fund a public pro- gram;' Awada said. "This is only the beginning. This project is not going to start until that money is there.... It's going to be a big job." Other details of the project re- main unanswered and will be ad- dressed at future city council meetings this year. Many who attended the March 2 meeting spoke about the need for having a safe place for kids to go and defended the use of public dollars to help build an arena, citing the amount spent by the city on other recreational facilities like parks, baseball, softball and soccer fields. If this community is going to be progressive we are going to need a facility to serve (kids)." said Bill Osborne "Instead of lry- Ing to derail the train I think (op- ponents of the project) should gel on board and help steer fl." 1 think if we are going to be like a big community we ought to start acting like one;' sold Carl. my King. "I think It's lime we Put it together and get this thing go - Ing.' Is Brian Karrick, an Eagan Nigh graduate who currently attends Sl. Olaf College, told the council o that although he grew up in n Fagan, he spent much of his time y in neighboring ;flies like Bum- s ville because Eagan did not have f facilities like an arena for kids to g use. re "ft's time the city had a place for the youth," Karrick said. "I want my kids to have a place e when l came back." emI people spoke in oPPo- silian of the project, citing the mandate of the residents In the earlierreferenci ms, This thing has not been given enough) thought, in my opinion," said Bob Saalborn. "It's been rammed down everybody's throats for the last three elec- tions." Put it on another referen- dum,"said Randy Munsterman. Although she supports the idea of building a recreational facility. Masin said act enough thought has gone into the current Pro- posal. She recommended moving the C1P funding from 1997 to 1994 to give the city more time to discuss the project and work out thedemils. At this time. to put something on the budget less than a year after the Flailed) referendum Is a little presumptuous; ' Masin said. 9 want the community center but 1 want a community center that isn't divided by the core - roundly." Wachter, who also voted against the proposal, said he couldn't vole against the man- date of last year's referendum. lie said more understanding Is seeded before he could vote to spend public money on an arena. Bohn told members of the comcfl that he knew the kind of political courage ididkes o makethedecisionthey q think it's about time and I think it's fair to tin: People want this. Pro proud to say I am a residentofihis city." MAR 1 6 1993 iRounding up' support Locals can donate to environment programs via utility bills Recreation Director M2urice Ander- son said. Donations to the city are tax- deductible, and residents and busi- nesses may round up their bill to any amount in the program, City Manager David Childs said. les a very voluntary situation:' he said. The City Council approved the voluntary Program last week, with the stipulation the money be used the following year for enviromen- lal and b autflmdon projects in the SHELBY NICOLAUS-DU SRI New Brighton locals can help fund environmental projects in the city with sane louse change in their utility bills. The city plans to start a "Round - Up for the Enviraunent" program, which allows residents to doom to projWs by rwlding up the bills. For example, a resident has the option of rounding up a quarterly bill of $57.50 to $60, donating 52.50 to the program, Parks and l is a very voluntary situation. David Childs city. City leaders chose to spend the money on bumedwte projects over an option to put the lnoneY into Uhe parks ca iW improvement fund. If 1 were going to donate, I'd like m see it spent, rather tan it go into some massive POL" Comet Mem- ber Roger W iII1=ss said. The council also asked that the Park Board develop W endowment fund proposal for parks A similar "Round -Up" program began recently in Roseville, but it it still too early to know what their MWaxse rate is. Anderson said. Anderson expects the Program Will bring $3,000 W $6,000 in mv- enurs amnally. to the city. .11 Yin MIPPIMO FERVICE 1 SIR)REVIEW/ARREN IIILLS FOCUS Rvmsq Co. MAR 1 6 1993 iRounding up' support Locals can donate to environment programs via utility bills Recreation Director M2urice Ander- son said. Donations to the city are tax- deductible, and residents and busi- nesses may round up their bill to any amount in the program, City Manager David Childs said. les a very voluntary situation:' he said. The City Council approved the voluntary Program last week, with the stipulation the money be used the following year for enviromen- lal and b autflmdon projects in the SHELBY NICOLAUS-DU SRI New Brighton locals can help fund environmental projects in the city with sane louse change in their utility bills. The city plans to start a "Round - Up for the Enviraunent" program, which allows residents to doom to projWs by rwlding up the bills. For example, a resident has the option of rounding up a quarterly bill of $57.50 to $60, donating 52.50 to the program, Parks and l is a very voluntary situation. David Childs city. City leaders chose to spend the money on bumedwte projects over an option to put the lnoneY into Uhe parks ca iW improvement fund. If 1 were going to donate, I'd like m see it spent, rather tan it go into some massive POL" Comet Mem- ber Roger W iII1=ss said. The council also asked that the Park Board develop W endowment fund proposal for parks A similar "Round -Up" program began recently in Roseville, but it it still too early to know what their MWaxse rate is. Anderson said. Anderson expects the Program Will bring $3,000 W $6,000 in mv- enurs amnally. to the city. .11 YMA CLIPPIaO SEMVICE f.x1:f:1.SI11N— GIIN.VAII,IIN Ila• n nh, 1'1). MAI? I , Voters parks It., J.hn Mngford de 199.3 handily d referendum After Sberewood voters last week rejected a 39110,000 referen- dum to spruce up the city's hik- ing trails and rive parks, members of the Park Commis- sion were left wandering why residents voted as overwhelm- ingly as they did. Of the 412 residents who went to the polls, 75 percent voted against a plan that would have added playground equipment and picnic areas to the city's parks, including some shelters, as well as tennis courts in a cou- ple of parks and some new park- ing lots. We thought about it a lot and talked about it," said Jennifer McCarty, a member of the city's eight -member Park Commis- sion. "And actually, we had predicted almost correctly the number of "rlo" votes. But we were wav ,It on the "yes" r,rles. plan SH2 EWOOD And that means, according to McCarty, that voter hlrnonl was lower Ilan city officials and park commissioners had expected. Less than 10 percent of the city's eligible voters turned out on a cold and icy March 9, with 290 voting against the referen- dum and 114 voting for it. We had spoken to so many people who said they were in favor of it and were going to vote for it'" McCarty said. "I guess it's harder for people to remember a referendum Woe this. The weather was bad, but the vote wasn't very close, so guess we can't consider that as an excuse." One resident who voted "W"" said the city proposed the referendum at the wrong time. i The country is coming out of a recession and President Clinton has proposed .lax -raise, the man said. LCs not the right time for something like this:' said the resident, who didn't waarenameused. "I think people getting prolective of thew pocketbooks. And, 1 don't think Mysaw what was proposed, as are `I need for the community. Maybe they saw it more on file lines of something that would be nice for the city, but sol a necessity. If residents saw it as a grave heed, more would have gotten out and voted for it.' The referendum would have allowed the city to sell 3991),000 I. bonds to raise money For the implementation d the park pro - jests. The city's residents would have paid back thedebtm cgsincreasedproperty years. Property taxes on a 3150,000 house would have in- creased $41 a year until the bonds were paid off, and laxer on a $60,000 house would have increased $88 a year- 1 guess most residents are satisfied with the parks as they are:' McCarty said. "Maybe a lot of people are used to having the lake and other recreation areas nearby and don't see a need for more- But we still think there are a lot of famili Stand children who need parks." For park commissioners, the rejection sends them back to the drawing board. But McCarty said park can- missioners are not going to give up on their goal of making the city's parks more famity- oriented, which was their pur- pose in proposing the referendum. Without the referendum money, it will simply take the commission longer to make the improvements. "About 21 years; McCarty said. lire commission will now have to accomplish that goal with its yearly share of the city's property tax revenues, and with money pumped into the city's park fund from new develop- ment projects. For the current year, the can - mission plans to spend about 52,000 on the city's parks, with most of the money going toward the construction of tennis and basketball courts in Silverwood parks sl Covington andelofthecity's newestd Market roads. The commission will also con- centrate in coming years on ad- ding playground equipment in all of its parks. Steve Dzurak, chairman d the Park commission, said most of the city's playground equipment is old and usafe. McCarty said commissioners are examining ways to pay for that playground equipment, in- cluding looking into raising We money Borough private Fund- raisers. This year, the park canmis- sion will receive about $75,000 in revenues. Most will come from the city's budget, while about. 15,000 will come from developers paying mandatory contributions when they build new housing pmjecls. The rest will cone from other means. However, part lommis- sione s are putting away some funds each year in order to prepare for a dedinhlg park hard, she mkIL Tbat's because as the city cantinues to be developed, fewer horsing pro- jects will be built each r. By 1990, McCarty said, city d-/, Bcials estimate the yearl survey. According to the survey, of the 12th -grade students in Mft n to who receive ldormation about sex only from their friends. 54 percent they have had sexual intercourse, Yates said. However, Of Students who a" fl—, eel :-G.,.,.lion from their Ma CIIppIMn SERVICE i ( OLOOMIN6TON SUN -CURRENT Hennepin CO. MAR 17 1993 Groundbreaking A groumdb UQg ceremony for the future Olympic -sine ice sheet at the Bloomington Com- munity Ice Garden will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 20, at the northwest side of the building. The public is invited to the ceremony. which is expected to last t620 minutes and will in - scheduled for rink \ elude cookies, coffee and punch. The project was proposed in January 1992 by a citizens com- mittee representing community hockey and figure skating con- stituents. The committee's report stated the rink would fray for itself in ha7rased ice rentals and other revenues, and no pro- perty taxes would he regndred. Before granting approval for the project, the Bloomington Ci- ty Council reviewed en- vhm meatal studies, traffic and parking issues, and shone by the city's administrative ser- vices d7artmed repardhlH the need and fuancing for the rink. Construction, scheduled to begi in late March, will befinancednncedbyiceGardenreceipts, money frau the city's revenue facilities fwd and matey from the city's capital Improvement contingency fwd. The rink is scheduled to be completed by early fall. The ar- chitect for the project, Thomas Stahl Inc., and construction firm, PCI. Construction, are both Bloomington companies. In9gf CLIPPING SEPVICE 1 VAILtA /I.Aak.. t 11.11{ sIIN+ I lain 11 Ila4mu 1 rr. n9e I MAR 1 7 1999 Arena plans Lakeville; Eagan, ice sheets depend on private funds By Mlkkel Kelly Y and Terry Mencel As demand for ice time Con- tinues to increase in expanding Dakota County, some cities have put the chill on voter referendums as a method of gaining funding for new ice arenas. After two failed bond referen- dums requesting sheets of ice, the Eagan City Council recently adopted a project list that in- cludes a $1.85 million ice arena. However, at least $5W,000 in private donations must be rais- ed by 1995, before the City Coun- cil will release city funds for its Construction. In Lakeville, where a 1961 ice arena referendum failed 2,672 votes to 686. the City Council last shimmer approved a plan based on pulltab revenue and private Funding. Athletic groups must raise $496,000 by Oct. 15 for con- struction of a $1.8 million arae, which would be completed by August next year. an ice arena proposal by the Apple Valley Hockey Associa- tion Project 192 committee was introduced last month in Apple Valley. Apple Valley Mayor will skate around voter referenduri g'A t. Y". The Rownhcunt City Could Is considering a change order did would ready the city's SU million les arena by Da. 15. Otherwise the " 1 cmnp1e11on date Is Feb. 6. (Photo by Bill ]orrea) Brarudng said because Bre city sidering multi -one reamtkalal Tom Ega& have placed thdr peH&W smtsl already owns half an grata at Apple Valley High School, a facilities tint would have ice from October we March and be Egan referred to the toereae- Ing dermad an Cities to build kz on the thatto aat(stfTa used they ray tan GGknga . referendum to pay for another one is likely to fail. The last at- used for other activities, in- cluding hldosr soccer during areoss. But for file past several ymn he said, Eagan hes been VautantelltabsidfLis ty br tine aheltaef' and 'IP temptata refers t an including summer months. an a 9uaodary because vdanhaveturneddownthreeice never be able p IkV said Egan, eevisloelrltl the: a second arena in 19V failed by arena plana via bond gran asatint phase fea'aatwotoonevote The three cities are all at Eagan] referendore. muaity arta that 7111 ha various stages of development to bring a sheet of ice to their ci- Most of what you're seeing is This has (orad the city to seek other no -taxpayer solu- broad appeal. . New plans tall Eagan to am : ty tlat—except for possibly Ap. a microcosm or what's happen- tions to Mild an area. Egan mit $1.4 million from its can- ) pie Valley — doesn't involve a ing all over the slate of MM- and two other Council members, voter referendum. All are con- nesota," said Eagan Mayor Pat Awada and Sawn Hunter, I1plitr V&LL-/ t.rkbtktflle- Pa of . k i-. - I I ! t , munily Investment fund, adopted tar use on only capital Improvement projects. But about $500,000 in private con- tributions must be raised before the city releases its money to build the estimated $1.85 million arena. The stadard-size ares will have ice about six months of the year to M trots. The $1..85 million is a preliminary cast that does not include item such as an ice resurfacer, scoreboard, bleachers or boiler hearoanfor l. City officials ex - pmt the arenA to open for indoor soccer pod other activities dur- ing oHskating months - But critics argue against building an area. They say the council should heed voter' man- dates" From the failed referen- dum in 1802 and 1889. He biggest problem that we had is with the soars of dw money (for an arena);' Egan said. Previously, Egan publicly said he would support building an sena when he received a petition signed by 5,000 residents. While he hasn't received a petition, Egan said requiring Wlow in private donations fulfills that goal - Tutting one's money where one's mouth is, is a very signifi- cant mandate," be said Egan acknowledged public pressure to build an arena, e5pxauy foam Eagan Hockey Association members. The pmmn,c las not been excessive. In fact, he said arena pro- ponents have appeared somewhat "disorganized" and awkward" in their approach. We are not wilting under pressure from any certain lobby The issue comes down to fairres. More than 400 youth skate in the Eagan Hockey Association. Such organizations generally garner more than 800 players in cities that have ice arenas. Fagan players travel up to 30 miles for ice, and often skate before their classmates rise from led for school. This facility will fit in as an integral component of the city's overall recreational needs," Egan said. City officials refer to the area as self-supporting. User fees will offset operational costs, said Ken Vrm, Eagan Parks and Recreation director. This is based on the arena opeatmil during cooler months while de- mand remains high. Lakeville It took more than a year for the Ice Arena Task Force in Lakeville to cone up with a pan that boasts no cast to taxpayers. H a foal fundraising goal of 496,000 is met this fall, the arca will open in August next year. Lynette Mulvihill, Lakeville City Council member and member of the arena task force, said it was assumed that another lend referendum would fad, so the committee created a pan based largely on pulltab revenues. The committee tried to find a way that "entities could achieve the goal without the tax- payers having to pay for it," she said. According to the plan, user renals would generate enough to pay operational costs of the fees profits of $55,000 and annual projected pulltab revenues of 70,000 from Lakeville Hockey Association (LHA) pulltab booths at the Ole Piper Inn and the Iced Fox Inn will be used to make annual bond payments. The issuance costs of $118,720 for the $1.37 million bond were paid by LHA last May but the plan suffered a temporary snag in August when the city plans to award the bonds were delayed. Investors were apparently concerned that unforeseen changes in pulltab laws could in- hibit payment. A city memo from Dermis Fetor slated that investors are extremely skep- tical about purchasing in- vestments which sre backed, at least in part, with. pulltab reveaea." By August the bonds were secured by Piper Jaffray Inc. and the ball was back in the cowl of LHA and Lakeville Community Corporation (I.CC), which must raise the final 496,000 by Oct. 15. If they fail, the city will pay the bond and scrap the plan. Mike Watters, chair of the LCC fundraising committee, said the group has raised about 250,001). With about seven mon- ths remaining, Watters said, 32 team captains will purse con- tributions from local businesses. Team captains will invite business owners to a town meeting at the Chart House In Lakeville, which is being organized to discuss how the arena will generale additional business. The Lakeville Civic Arena can be described as a spartan facili- ty with few frills but with an Olympic -size (100 by 200 feel) sheet of ice. Bleachers from nearby fields will be carried in and used inside the arena during winter months. The building will not have infrared healers, locker room toilets, or food mr- vice equipment. Skaters will park cars in a nearby grass field. Options to improve the site could later be added with addi- tional community funding, the committee's report recommends. The land, donated by Lakeville School District 194, is on the north side of Highway 50 about a hall mile northwest of Dodd Road and Highway 50. Apple Valley Because Apple Valley has an ice arena at Apple Valley High School and neighbors Lakeville and Fagan don't have their fust ere arenas, it could be difficult to convince voters to vote far a se- cand area. Another referen- dum could go the way of a 19M referendum thatvoters defeated two to one. That's the way Apple Valley Mayor Will Bramhing viewed an Apple Valley Hockey Assoca- Uon proposal last month at an Apple Valley City Council wok s e s s i o n Bonds for the existing ice alta, owned by the city and the school district, will be paid off in 1995. interestingly, that arena was built on a 1974 referendum Unit passed by one vote. City takpeyera agreed to pay$M OW for its portion of construction and equipment casts. The Project '92 proposal recommends construction of a concreteponeled ice arena at Hayes Community Center, just blocks from We high school arena, with seating for 500 peo- ple and 14 additional rooms. Speaking at an Apple Valley City Council work session last month, Bernie Dusich, secretary of the Apple Valley Hockey Association, said the need las been demonstrated and it is a good time to buy with low interest rates available. He said even If new arenas in Rose- mount and Fagan were open, there would still be a need far moa lee. The committee projected a bond payment of $1BB,Wa per year, based no a 7.5 percent in- terest rate amortized over 2D years, which would be paid by projected user fees of about 150,000. Randy Johnson, direc- tor of parka and recreation, said city staff initial projection are 150,000 and $170,000 in revenues and a bond payment of about 180,000. Johnson said city staff has on- ly begun to prepare a report of varices fending methods and re- evalusjoctiomainga( tlplans and cost Pro- kid 'ser pro pnsal. Johnson agreed that a referendum may have little chance. He told the council mare play- ing fields and an area are the top two recreational needs in the city, with addetic fie is holding a slightly higher priority. About 1.5 million excess hands are in the city's special assessment bonds fund balance that coma me used far an ice arena. Johnson said the city needs both facilities and said another option would be to pupae park dedication land and build play fields and an arena on one site. Relief in Rosemount A regulatiarsize ice arena is sebedded toopeaFebruary 1881 in Rosemount, providing ice time to many slaters. City Ad- ministrator Steve Jilk said the area may be ready Dec. 15 fids year if the Rosemount City Council approves a change order. Rosemount High School and the Rosemount Hockey Asmcia- tion will be among users of the rink inside the $10.76 million Na- tional Guard Armory and Rose- mount Community Center building. Volas mppmw consbuction of an auditorium and a banquet Lau but voted 6V to 415 against a 2.2 million ice arena in February of 1962. Mayor Ed Meldenomy sold the ata deci- sion to build was justified after a committee of camdlmembes and residents found the arena would be largely self-/ supporting. Arena task force io be established City won't be too involved ByTONYTASCHNER The Eagan City Council this week decided to take a "hands off' approach to raising the 450,000 in community donations needed to construct a multi -use recreational facility/ice arena next to the municipal center. The council, at its March 16 meeting, decided to establish the framework for a task force. Its primary purpose initially will be to raise enough money to com- plete the $1.65 million project, of which the council has agreed to fund$1.4million. The council made It clear, however, that it does not want to guide the actions of the task force. Decisions about member- ship, leadership, goals and methods will all be made by the residents who express an interest inbeing involved in the group. I think we should get Involved in setting this up but 1 don't want us involved loo much beyond that." said Council Member Pat Awada. Specifically, Awada said she doesn't want to see the city expend dollars on the task form for things like printing, or do- naling a lot of city staff time to the effort. Mayor Tom Egan cautioned those who get involved from allowing any one group to mo- nopolize the process. He stressed the importance of this being an inclusive group, which be said will increase the project's chances for success. Egan said the group should represent a wide spectrum of interests in the community, including hockey, ice ringette, figure skating, soccer, swimming, and others. I'm sure the hockey people have a vested interest and will want to participate, but other groups will too," Egan said. The city will initiate the pro- cess by sending notices to groups that would likely be interested in gelling involved, and will set a dale for the task force's first meeting. Egan encouraged all in- terested residents to send a letter to the city indicating their desire to serve on the task force. The only other involvement the council plans to have is to ensure that contributions made to the task force are handled properly. If sufficient funds cannot be rais- ed to move ahead with the pro- jest, contributions made to the task forcewouldberelurned. The council will request Uel Ithetaskforceprovideregular updates on their plans and pro- gress. The task force's progress will be documented on a fund- raising thermometer, similar to the type used by the United Way. The thermometer will be placed on the future site of the recrea- tional facility/arena, immediate- ly south of the municipal center on Pilot Knob Road. MNA CIVVINO SEIIVICE 1 TIIIS WEEKEACANOnkomfa. Arena task force io be established City won't be too involved ByTONYTASCHNER The Eagan City Council this week decided to take a "hands off' approach to raising the 450,000 in community donations needed to construct a multi -use recreational facility/ice arena next to the municipal center. The council, at its March 16 meeting, decided to establish the framework for a task force. Its primary purpose initially will be to raise enough money to com- plete the $1.65 million project, of which the council has agreed to fund$1.4million. The council made It clear, however, that it does not want to guide the actions of the task force. Decisions about member- ship, leadership, goals and methods will all be made by the residents who express an interest inbeing involved in the group. I think we should get Involved in setting this up but 1 don't want us involved loo much beyond that." said Council Member Pat Awada. Specifically, Awada said she doesn't want to see the city expend dollars on the task form for things like printing, or do- naling a lot of city staff time to the effort. Mayor Tom Egan cautioned those who get involved from allowing any one group to mo- nopolize the process. He stressed the importance of this being an inclusive group, which be said will increase the project's chances for success. Egan said the group should represent a wide spectrum of interests in the community, including hockey, ice ringette, figure skating, soccer, swimming, and others. I'm sure the hockey people have a vested interest and will want to participate, but other groups will too," Egan said. The city will initiate the pro- cess by sending notices to groups that would likely be interested in gelling involved, and will set a dale for the task force's first meeting. Egan encouraged all in- terested residents to send a letter to the city indicating their desire to serve on the task force. The only other involvement the council plans to have is to ensure that contributions made to the task force are handled properly. If sufficient funds cannot be rais- ed to move ahead with the pro- jest, contributions made to the task forcewouldberelurned. The council will request Uel Ithetaskforceprovideregular updates on their plans and pro- gress. The task force's progress will be documented on a fund- raising thermometer, similar to the type used by the United Way. The thermometer will be placed on the future site of the recrea- tional facility/arena, immediate- ly south of the municipal center on Pilot Knob Road. MMA CLIPPING SERVICE MOUND -THE LAKER IlennePtn Co. MAR 221993 S6niori Ceti Spring By Lorrie Ham tert to rec i e bulk' ofd, block -gra of funds been helped through the program in 1992. In explaining how advocates are often matched with victims with the help of local police departments, Peterson noted that the Orono Police Department, which serves the City of Spring Park, does not have a specific policy on offering the intervention service to possible victims of abuse. The council agreed to talk to Chief Sullivan about the matter. The council also earmarked 875 for the Weslonka Community Action Network WeCAN). Margaret Halide noted that of the 1,071 households served in 1992, 80 were in the City of Spring Park. A variety of services were offered, including emergency assistance, Meals -on -Wheels, counseling and public assistance application services. Holste noted that all of the service agencies in the area work closely with one another in trying to provide help to those in need. The council allocated $1,550 to a rehabilitation fund and earmarked the remaining $2,371 for an update on the city's comprehensive plan. Park The Spring Park City Council allocated its share of Community Development Block Grant CDBG) funding at its March 15 meeting. The council also turned down George Norling's request for property at 4113 Sunset Drive to be rezoned from R-1 (residential) to C-1 (commercial) and tabled a variance request from the Hennepin County Sheriff's Water Patrol. The council approved Senior Community Services' request for CDBG funds to operate the Westonka Senior Center and related programs in the amount of $5,359, an increase of 5125 over what was requested. In thanking the council for its past support of the center, Dotty O'Brien noted that the center had served over 1,000 different seniors during 1992. Ovcr 500 individuals ate 12,883 noon meals at the center, she reported, and 101 educational programs benefitted a total of 1200 seniors. Weslonka Rides served 580 passengers in 1992 and volunteers from the center contributed 18,250 hours in 1992, which results in a contribution valued at nearly $80,000 at minimum wage, she added. Peg Kamholz reported that 57 seniors in Spring Park received 177 client contact hours from the Senior Outreach program in 1992- The council also voted to allocate $750 to the Weslonka Intervention Project. Jay Peterson, representing the project noted that 91 victims had In another matter, the council turned down George Norling's request to rezone property on Sunset Drive for the purpose of storing materials for his nursery service. Neighboring residents had expressed concern about possible noise, commotion and potential eyesores that could be connected: with the business. 1 understand their concerns," said Norling. "But my intent is to establish a viable, respectable looking business." At issue for the council was the rezoning process itself. In order for Norling to obtain a conditional use permit that would allow the nursery business, the property, which is currently zoned R -I, would have to be rezoned C-1. Norling has a lease on the property with Dakota Rail owner Eli Mills, but does not own it. 1 don't like the idea of rezoning property for a tenant rather than a property owner," said Mayor Jury Rockvam. "And once that properly is rezoned, any use permitted in the CA zone would be allowed there." 1 see a problem with spot zoning a commercial site in a residential neighborhood without buffers," said Councilmember Bill Weeks. Other councilmembers agreed That they didn't want to sce the property rezoned. But the council also agreed that they liked the concept of Noding's plan, which They said would probably help to clean up the area. In an effort to help Norling, the council agreed to discuss the issue with the city attorney to see if any other options exist which would allow the conditional use without rezoning the property. The council agreed to discuss the issue again after hearing from the city attorney. CRI IMO fERVICEYRA SUOREVIM/ARUEN' IIILIS FOCUS Ramses Cn. MAR 23199:3 Dreams of fields Growing little league eyes Shoreview SHELBY IVIColAtls-DUNSKI A growth sport in ms Little f-eague bas league officials looking for new turf. League officials are mulling an idea to lease eight ayes of property under a bmadcast tows in Shom,iew err which tiny would build four base- ball diamonds. At this point. it's at idea. That's about all we goL" said Steve Gomso, president of dic league and its board of directors. League officials ate inquiring about the lard, north of Intasta11fi94 at die sombwect comer of Mackuhin Street and Gmmsic Road. They am land for ballfields making contact with Califomia-based MetroMedia, which owns the Party Gorman said. The league would like towhichwould allow itcostleaseoftheprops. Y construct the fields, a concession stand and a Perking lot w the site. Gm feeling is it would be a win-win thing. It's land that's just sitting them otherwise and h may create some good will" between the company and community, Garan said. of the league's CapitalTomDolphin, charman e' sal to the mcertdyClub, presented the Popo to gain its support. It is premature for the city m Like action on the project, said Parks and Recreation Director Jerry Haffeman. ,If we gave them support now, it would kind of shod -circuit the system." The site needs to be mwoed and the project needs to be discussed by dte Phalimg le"g""'" ion, be said. But the city suPPau n its attempt at gating the site, he said The league hu rot yet bit any slags in the pma` mr, locathetion. The mea is (mown m be danger- guwin Y Iw'ves, buleihatl s nor a wff tower's Or fm summer baseball leagues, fjaffeman svd. Lime Lakes phms to look for oOt- a playing field sites if it is unable to lease the lower property. Gorman said. It's a concept and it doesn't in= it's gang to happek" be said. Space has become more of a necessity than a luxury for the league. formed in 1961, which has mushroomed for the Past five yeas. The number of players in Utile Lakes has increased from 550 in 1987 to 1.300 last year. A 41-Dtem- her Board of Directors governs The league. which includes youft from North Gales, Vadnais Heights, New Brighm Mombs View and Shore- VICw. And the number of Shoreview Youths in Ore league has nearly dou- bled in the past five years, from about 350 in 1997 to Deady 700 last year, Crernurn said Shoreview kdds make up about 51 percent of the league, he said. We had a big surge when the Twins won the World Series in 1987, then again when they won again (in 1991)." Gorman said. In the meantime, teams have played on various fields in city parks, merry times at Sitra Park in Shoreview. Gorman said. There's a huge demand for fields. We may be able m take some of the pressure of (c ties):' be said. little Lakes URd2lS estimate the project would cost up to 5167,000. However. the ackW cost is expect- ed to be quite a bit lower since the league plans to could murk of the labor. MaA CLIPPING SERVICE t 111011;EwI, IVVVVVV Ami%ItILIh nui i.F:rIN Ilam... l'a. HAP 2 li 1993 Shoreview city improvement plan adds more for parks/trails 11`1 plan are the Snail Lake augmentation, a ] by Amber Brennan commons park building, Emmet Parks and nails are climbing their Williams gym enlargement and money way to die lop of Shoreview's priority for annual sewer and public safely list for improvements. In last week's system improvements, meeting, the city council approved a Capiml Improvement Plan (C.I.P.) for the next five years that earmarks $2.7 million for new park improvements and trail construction. This significant allocation is die biggest change from last year's plan. The other big change in this year's plan is money set aside for American's with Disabilities (ADA) modifications to public facilities. New ADA legislation requires improvements at parks, fire stations and otter city -owned buildings to make them wheelchair accessible. The city's accessibility task force estimated Shoreview will spend about 590,000 [o meet those requirements by dIc middle of 1995. The hypothetical budget for all capital improvements in the city is $33 million for 1993 and a grand total of almost sl7 million for the years 1993- 1997. Capital improvement plans area kind wish list" for a city: they outline projects the city would like m undertake and Trow much they'll cost over a period of about five years. Replacement or improvement of any of the city's capiml assets valued at more than $15,000 would be included in the plan. If the plan is followed over the next five years, the city would spend more than $8 million on sweet renewal projects; $I million on equipment such as wcks, mowers and street sweepers: 500,000 on traffic improvements and 100,000 on upgrading the city's computersystem. According to Jeanne Haapala, Shoreview's acting city manager, the plan is not a real budget or a guaranteed schedule or agenda; it can be changed at any time and docs not obligate the city to any projects. Itjust lays out a plan for the city so that we can look at spending and set priorities for [what we want to accomplish]," she said. Some other projects included in the ALSO AT THE MEETING, the council approved a $945,000 street renewal program for 1993. Streets slated for major overhauls this summer are: Nancy Place from County Road F to victoria Street; Colleen Avenue east and west of Nancy Place; Dawn Avenue east and west of Nancy Place and Nancy Circle east of Nancy Place. Construction on the struts is set to begin May 24 and should be finished by/ August 20. A Cl' rRPIMp SERVIC RAUAN 5VN.1'URRVNI MAG y hnl Looking; ahead \ ty' t' will prepare new parks, recreation plan n. rrrraoer alrne,q Eagan has surpassed the goals envisioned in the current parks system plan developed 10 years ago, said Ken Vraa, parks and recrcalion director. That plan had envisioned a city of 4%000 people in 1990. Times have changed, and m has Fagan's landscape dotted with new development. Recent- ly, more than 20o people signed a petition requesting a trail to link their Pinewood Elementary area neighborhood. They wanted trails to Trapp Farm Park and to Cliff Road along Dodd Road. The current master plan didn't account for an elemen- one petition seems to follow another for the. Eagan Parks and Recreation Dep,u'Imenl. Requests typically range from anolher park and trail to more sod volleyball pits and baseball fields. These arca fewsigns that have prompted F.ignn officials In review the city parks and recreation goals. Another reason to revamp its parks system plan is the city's p,lmlation. With 52.070 people, Eagan faces a multitude of needs that remain ever- changing. A crorsultanl soon to he hired, will help the city idea- lity current rnul Willie parks rids. tary school being built on the east side of Dodd, Vraa said. These kinds of "Unforeseen" developments have helped out- date the plan. Eagan residents such as in the Pinewood neighborhood are en- couraged to participate in listening sessions" to help reshape the city's parks plan. These information meetings will be scheduled throughout the year. We want to push the limits of where we're at now," Vraa said. Currently, Eagan has 43 developed parks and another six planned for development. About 1, t0) acres are devoted to parks, recreation and natural resources. About 80 miles of trails connect 39 playgrounds, three athletic fields and other special use parks such as Thomas Lake Park. Another five parks are slated for development. Yet, with all the parks, residents sf ilf request more me - vices and facilities whether an ice arena or baseball fields. Ten years is a long time for pre -planning," said George Kubik, newly elected chair of Eagan's Advisory Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission. Kubik knows first hand how much a current master parks plan benefits a city, having been appointed to the commission in 1903, just after the city adopted its first parks plan. (Kubik left the commission in 1992 after ser- ving a maximum three con- secutive terms and was reap- pointed in 1990.) Without the plan, Kubik said the city would have floundered. It's much easier to address the needs of Eagan residents Brough a systematic plan," he said. The selected parks consultant will delve into problem areas that have surfaced in the past 10 years, Vraa said. Schools and homes have cropped up in places not envisioned, such as Pinewood Elementary. Other properties have developed at faster than expected rates. Consultants will also help city officials and residents answer the question, "Are we on track with meeting the parks, mcrea- tion and natural resources needs", Rahn Pare is one park that needs a new long-range plan, Vraa said. The city will have to decide whether to preserve a wooded portion on the park's southern edge or reserve it for future development - lite mighborhood pares are The bad.bone of our system;" Vraa said. Athletic Fields and other special use facilities are based on the neighborhood The city lacks ornamental parks, with a focus on historic preservation, he said. About 90 percent of the land envisioned I" parks has been acquired. Another question surfaces about bow to approach the remaining 10 percent of land that will be needed for future parks. Eagan officials may revisit what Vraa calls "vest pocket" parks, those that are about r with m6dmal playground equipment Ten years ago, these . parks were ruled out for economic reasons. Vraa said the city could easily have had 100 of these mild parks which are more expensive to maintain than fewer larger parks. The issue has cone up more than once, lately," Vraa said. Parks have been developed to service neighborhoods within a mile radius. But winding streets greatly increase the walking distance for some homeowners. This may give credence to plans for mind parks. Community interests and ! development opportunities change over time. Right now is the best time to review the berm plan, Kubik said. The parks commission has increased to 10 members as the city folxmts on " protecting its natural resources. Vraa expects the new parka system plan will be completed by 1994. MAR 24 093 Area, sports complex \ siuggested to solve Mielke Field dilemma By Sue Webber A major sports complex to ac- commodate all the area high schools? That was one suggestion that came out of a meeting between the Golden Valley City Council and the Robbinsdale District 281 School Board last week. The District 281 School Board N meeting with each of the area city councils before making a final decision April 19 on Mielke Field. Mielke Field, 36th Ave. N. and Highway 180 in Crystal, is used for Cooper and Armstrong High School football and soccer games, track meets and other District 261 athletic events. Super VWB.Jnc., has offered t9W,000 to buy the athletic field from the school district as part of its redevelopment of the An- thony Shopping Center at the in- tersection of 36th Avenue North and Highway 100. The City of Crystal has told the school district it will Con- demn the alliletic field if the district decides riot to sell it to Super Valu. You've got a tremendous safety problem at Mielke Field, and it's getting worse," said Council Member Ray Stockman. "The facility has really outlived its usefulness because of safely factors there." Stockman suggested that the school district consider a major sports Complex for students in all the area school districts to share. Such afacility might be developed through a joint powers agreement between area cities and school districts, he said. Can we a8 get together to get a major facility?" Stockman said. "Maybe this is an oppor- tunity. We could go to the tax- payers and get the money. It could be sold." Council Member Gloria Johnson was skeptical, however, citing the recent defeat of Golden Valley's swim- ming pool bond referendum. Part of the Mielke Field dilemma, according to School Board Member Mary Moreira, is that the board members, themselves, are not in agree- ment on which options to pursue. The 30 -year-old field needs significant improvements to br- ing it to current standards. Some favor fixing it up and fighting the threatened condem- nation, some favor placing a separate athletic field at each of the two high schools, and others advocate relocating the field at a neutral location. It's a disadvantage for students at Armstrong and Cooper who can't use the field unless they're bused there;, Moreira said. She said she's Convinced that, if there's only to be one field, it has to be somewhere other than at one of the two high schools. Johnson said she believes that for one political entity (Crystal) to condemn another (District 281) to build a grocery store is inappropriate. As a District 281 taxpayer, I'm in favor of your BolnB to court and fighting the condem- nation;' Johnson said. "I think you would win it very clearly." Mayor Larry Bakken, an at- torney and law professor at Harnime University, agreed. I'm not so slue you can't prevail;' he said. Stockman expressed concern about potential litigation on the issue ,that could run into hun- dreds of thousands of dollars." A related dilemma has to do with the district's long-range plan for the former Robbinsdale High School, located across the street from the athletic field. The high school was closed in the spring of 1982 due to declin- ing enrollment. The facility since has been used to house a\ variety of community agencies and programs. If you plan to use Rob-' binsdale High School again, that might hold water with a judge, said Council Member Joan Russell. City Council members had some further advice to give the school board last week: Don't ask us to solve your problem. 1 don't sense the direction you want to go," Bakken said. IL's hard for us to give you our impressions if you're not slue what you want to do yourself. You've got to decide what you want to do with it. Ixtting it deteriorate isn't helping. Someday we have to bite the buffet on what we want to do about Robbinsdale High School," Bakken said. "It's your bullet to bite." NaA CLIPPING SERVICE NE" HOPE—UOLDEN VALLEY sun -POST r trnm•P1. Ca. MAR 24 093 Area, sports complex \ siuggested to solve Mielke Field dilemma By Sue Webber A major sports complex to ac- commodate all the area high schools? That was one suggestion that came out of a meeting between the Golden Valley City Council and the Robbinsdale District 281 School Board last week. The District 281 School Board N meeting with each of the area city councils before making a final decision April 19 on Mielke Field. Mielke Field, 36th Ave. N. and Highway 180 in Crystal, is used for Cooper and Armstrong High School football and soccer games, track meets and other District 261 athletic events. Super VWB.Jnc., has offered t9W,000 to buy the athletic field from the school district as part of its redevelopment of the An- thony Shopping Center at the in- tersection of 36th Avenue North and Highway 100. The City of Crystal has told the school district it will Con- demn the alliletic field if the district decides riot to sell it to Super Valu. You've got a tremendous safety problem at Mielke Field, and it's getting worse," said Council Member Ray Stockman. "The facility has really outlived its usefulness because of safely factors there." Stockman suggested that the school district consider a major sports Complex for students in all the area school districts to share. Such afacility might be developed through a joint powers agreement between area cities and school districts, he said. Can we a8 get together to get a major facility?" Stockman said. "Maybe this is an oppor- tunity. We could go to the tax- payers and get the money. It could be sold." Council Member Gloria Johnson was skeptical, however, citing the recent defeat of Golden Valley's swim- ming pool bond referendum. Part of the Mielke Field dilemma, according to School Board Member Mary Moreira, is that the board members, themselves, are not in agree- ment on which options to pursue. The 30 -year-old field needs significant improvements to br- ing it to current standards. Some favor fixing it up and fighting the threatened condem- nation, some favor placing a separate athletic field at each of the two high schools, and others advocate relocating the field at a neutral location. It's a disadvantage for students at Armstrong and Cooper who can't use the field unless they're bused there;, Moreira said. She said she's Convinced that, if there's only to be one field, it has to be somewhere other than at one of the two high schools. Johnson said she believes that for one political entity (Crystal) to condemn another (District 281) to build a grocery store is inappropriate. As a District 281 taxpayer, I'm in favor of your BolnB to court and fighting the condem- nation;' Johnson said. "I think you would win it very clearly." Mayor Larry Bakken, an at- torney and law professor at Harnime University, agreed. I'm not so slue you can't prevail;' he said. Stockman expressed concern about potential litigation on the issue ,that could run into hun- dreds of thousands of dollars." A related dilemma has to do with the district's long-range plan for the former Robbinsdale High School, located across the street from the athletic field. The high school was closed in the spring of 1982 due to declin- ing enrollment. The facility since has been used to house a\ variety of community agencies and programs. If you plan to use Rob-' binsdale High School again, that might hold water with a judge, said Council Member Joan Russell. City Council members had some further advice to give the school board last week: Don't ask us to solve your problem. 1 don't sense the direction you want to go," Bakken said. IL's hard for us to give you our impressions if you're not slue what you want to do yourself. You've got to decide what you want to do with it. Ixtting it deteriorate isn't helping. Someday we have to bite the buffet on what we want to do about Robbinsdale High School," Bakken said. "It's your bullet to bite." rmoo empol-0 aEaV1cE i NF.w RRIGRTON SVl.IF.TIN R.mxrY lo. NAR 3 1 1993 Is there a golf course in city's future? Answer nearer IM09D6 VIEW by ifm Fuehrer Mounds View city officials are one step closer to finding out if the city's purposed golfcourse will become anality. At its Mardi 22 session, the Mounds View City Council voted 4-0 to hire FJfm6w; Golf Course Symms of Fdma to perhxm a market analysis of the proposal - The Cost for the analysis is $6,500, plus expenses which will not exceed S30D. and will be paid from the city's Golf Course Developrnent acrount- According to City Administrator Samantha Orduno, city officials received four proposals for the market analysis. Two. Firective Golf Course Systems and Gorr Rvvmuce Associates of Adams, Ga. Wore very close," she said. The city had negotiations with a number of firms in an attempt to gel the mss dowq" Orduno said "Bhe proposals me equal. and from very reputable rums: The Golf Resource Associates' prgxrcd "was actually the same [in cost], but we fell that the local firm could give us a bearer Iwai perapecdve," Orduno said, Mounds View city staff received excellent recommendations" from k' officials in Inver Grove Heights where Effective Goff course Systems did similar work, Orduno said. They [Effective Golf Course Systems] estimated within 5 percent the revenue and expenditures for the mmdapal golf nurse in InverGmve." she said. "Inver Grove Heights was very pleased with thew work:' HIRING A FIRM for a market analysis is the latest of several jobs Undertaken by die city's Golf Task Force The task for¢ was faired m August 1992 to examine the feasibility, and to plan and build a golf came within the City. The city has concept plans for the proposed Course, rear 1-35W and County Road 1, and is seeking additional proposals. Mounds Vim city officals also met with a number of municipal golf mouse opvauas, l')f tktno said. They said that our location is excegenl and ural our project's viable ad workable," she said. "After every step, we ve stopped mad evaluated where we am going. Ifs a slow process, but we're nor in my hurry to push the prejecalong In other ardor, the Mounds Yew City council approved spending $2.592 on a permanent easement for the remtsm"on of Lung Lake Road The easement. on property owned ly the owners of the Phil! 66 m Long lake Road and Highway 10, is nhceded for Ulla increased road width and for utility purposes, according to a staff report The project a joint effort between the city and Ramsey County, will widen Long Lake Road from County Road 112 to County Road 1. The city council also passed a resolution protesting a bill that was introduced this session at the Minnesota Stale Legislafare. The bill, if passed, Would consolidate municipal prusxrhn services under the office of the Ramsey County prosunnnr- Every year. the slate Legislature introduces a number of bills That have a great impact on cities," Orduno said. Some pass, and some don't. Some have tbe pokntial m be very demtrnchve to the Cty of Mounds View. This bill is one of how.. According to Orduno, the city currently contracts for its prosecution ' suvices, which "Controls costs and ensures accountability. We hear all to frequently what happens at the county level. The i response time and accountability is greatly diminisbW The bill could also increa C costs 10 cities If the county decides to close i suburban municipal courts in New , Brighton and Maplewood, Orduno said. That would cost the City of Mounds View more money because we would have 1Q send police otfiars downtown for Court appearances," she said. Some we the bill as the fust step to close the suburban nuns. Usually these Mm of bills have an sharer motive, but Ito, not sure what it is In this case,' Orduno said. She added that the bill is currently in committee and that no hearings are scheduled. "Il may never crane up for a ' homing or a vac;' Orduno said. iona ro jg Ego 3&gii'H-N s-n0. 8g QF5 n+_ cE oe. $:$: mo o.. P n aE'.. m o pR Ra -a0R.o$n a5 5^PC- '^ 5. u a 1 . c 6'—n gog E= gOxwm 2 aR 5•p+F <'yo v R mnnRo5.8.32. 6 6 m @@ nER B ` aF 6 3 06mo oR oScER R's ' ' jj ov F.^w'b mwg. ooGE g. n go- 5-aoE.E: %eR G'ri N.S 30 oo 2RoSR45' 47 '.. ..^ o -.n w'a-S. w5o3. 3°5; "R5°n'. n°R3^o'^c' $C'•o 5'n o;a Q2 a s5.o ya oEAB o IS R,.w$9&N_S.0 naQ°H p^.R s.fo'i °SoR Ro p -o. nn8= g5' r'i, 0 0 y n -.oF c. 2- 3o: ... 55 E S s Sv^ a5 G R °.o. . I"P-.o^n 5= oR w ^'C F 6E F R '9. W• c- Er4cEEC. o.m TaoSRao^c G c }nwRu1 F nncr Eo EG.'5. ..-E no' n s'o:Sa 5. . Rn - csc 3 M1CR. N`yff Ep, n99 ^n{O'06E 6 °Gl c o o ° e 3vn aocs. Eo c.5=p'EG'KSff 2B v^'^ S,Rnn o n`O 9S?w5w 4c'0^w'o :'r'a R.' °, n<wo 5 '0'4 ?2 n4 '*0— o 'e 'n'K°w ' $aNE. R.H.91y" -c:WW 'onw wno 'F,p a51R'a cc E eE;— a}i r; a_ R vn"o"— O-ScR9 33 0n'ngno°p2.R&d.n ^ <ona%.3 'R +Eo BFL. G'.n c: qg n^ac 5'W nm"°0.<.o S. RBN:" ire odq"' F'000 a>t' o'sS E q 3^@aw 6n go:S"oR R k o3 o R . 3" 3 5 b S o 5.c 'p£$ d E a K nc 5 @ R'Sn°iw.¢'o-.'no Sc 'w6-'"r"c. E'0 59 M a $5 ^ °a a$ F38 T° <.3°.o F'o.uonSnoH`o c R'6 9 c .^ 'n E3n-'T'o°„^m S' 2. 5 Fr 3 pg' g3 o^G19'u a no''< ^c?oa, .ani 0o 5 a. S Frr n,S S. nc5,"u fs'1 1 0. JR5^. l J N NNA CLIPPINO SERVICE SOUTH ST. PAUL/ INVFA GROIE HFJGIM WN.t'URRENT' Ilnknly Cir. MAR 311993 12A—So. 9i. Paul -t w Gm+ Ha19nn, Ween SI. Pou4MeMola Itek$ b SuneCurnial—wed., March M. teas Cities By lleather Gay collaborate on Seidl's Lake;,: Park plan Inver Grove Heights and South St. Paul have been work- ing hand in hand on Seidl's Lake Clark master plan. Seidl's lake Park is 23 acres on tie south end of South St. Paul and north end of Inver Gmve Heights. The plan includes a trail system, fishing pier and tot lot, said Randy Nelson, director of Parks and Re Uon for South SL Paid. The master plan was approv- ed by the Inver Grove Heights City pounce at its March 22 meeting. In December 19M Inver Grove Heights acquired about IS acresi of property from David Ries': that have become part of park Inver Grove Heights has also received a $200,000 L.A.W.C.O.N. grant from the Land and Water Conservation Act, a state funding process for the purchase and development of park lands. This grant, to help in the park's development, is on of seven given in Minnesota during 1992, said Bruce Ander- son, director of Parks and Recreation in Inver Grove Heights. The two cities entered Into a joint powers agreement in November 1992 with the goal to develop the land into a passive community park recreational facility. Residents from both cities have commented on the pian at January and February public hearings, Anderson said. The cities have been working with Barton Aschman and Associates, a land use planning firm, to prepare final plana and speciflra[iore (or COR411LCten to begin in mid June.. This project concept has The park would include. been around sine 1972," said passive and active recreational • Anderson hasn'tla P preserve open space off the ground until' nowis lack and continue to save as a storm Of funding and the inability Of water holding area. It would be the two communities to agreem owned and opaated by . both a Plan, he said cities, according to a news During the last fen' moots, release from Anderson. South St. Paul and Inver Grove Recreational facilities for the Heights have worked to get this site were delen nWW based on project going, he said. comments received from a joint C impletion of cplstrvetioe is task force, a survey, residents in expected near Labor Day, both communities, neighbors to Anderson said. the property, and city staff I>ds pmjeM (rmaves a Md. msinbe s que landform within the two In,kxkd in the park plan is a; commindtles and the mast ex- tent system, an open play arse, citing part is R brings the two pleasure skating ares, a pians communities together In a joint shelter/warming house, effort." creative play areae, a fishing F7dm'eecpasion may include pier, nature walk, ovaiaok, andmore expanding two seven -car off-street parking . trail cOrridw er areas. Andeson said. 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