HomeMy WebLinkAboutPark and Recreation Advisory Commission Packet 01-09-1997Regular Meeting of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
January 9, 1997, 7 p.m.
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Minutes
3. Visitor Presentations
a. Athletic Associations
b. Staff
c. Others
4. Report on Past Council Action
a. Approved new park dedication fees
b. Approved no purchase of the Johnson Bros. open space
c. Approved CIP 1997-2001
d. Accepted $75,000 from Plymouth/Wayzata Hockey Assoc. for ice center
e. Approved policy for contributions to school playgrounds
f. Approved agreement for $700,000 contribution to Wayzata High School gym
5. Unfinished Business
a. West Medicine Lake park presentation by Barton-Aschman Assoc.
b. Ice arena/pool complex update
c. Open spaces update
d. Ehn Creek playfield update
e. Continue golf course discussion
f. East Medicine Lake regional trail update
g. Approve ice center behavior policies
h.
6. New Business
a. Review draft of 1996 annual report and 1997 work plan
b.
C.
7. Commission Presentation
8. Staff Communication
9. Adjourn
Next regular meeting - February 13
parks\staft\eric\prac\agendas\jan97.doc
Minutes of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting
December 12, 1996
Page 58
Present: Chair Anderson Commissioners Fiemann, Johnson, Priebe, Thompson, Wahl,
Willegalle, Councihnember Wold, staff Abel, Bisek, Blank, and Pederson
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Anderson called the December meeting to order at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Commissioner Willegalle and seconded by Commissioner Johnson
to approve the minutes of the November meeting as presented. The motion carried with all
ayes.
3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
a. Athletic Associations. None were present.
b. Staff. Mary stated that Old Fashioned Christmas went well. The weather was very
cooperative. This was our 10th year. This year we had a new Santa, because the
former Santa moved. The Armstrong Chamber Singers went to Washington, DC, so
they were unable to perform at Old Fashioned Christmas. They've been part of the
program the last nine years. Mary estimated that 600 people attended.
Warming houses open December 21. We are looking for attendants. Fire and Ice is
coming up in February. Karol Greupner is in charge of this event. A sign up sheet for
PRAC members to supervise the bonfire and s'mores was distributed. This year Fire
and Ice will have theme. Staff is talking about the possibility of a new design for the
Fire and Ice sweatshirt.
Mary stated that the City is reviewing salary ranges for hiring part-time seasonal
employees. The job market is very tight right now. We have what is essentially full
employment in the Twin Cities. We may have to raise rates to attract people. Mary
asked PRAC to be on the lookout for possible employees for us.
Mary announced that staff is working on the next brochure. She had one update from
last month. It appears that we will be running recreational soccer for New
Hope/Plymouth. They will still do traveling. We accept children in the program at age
5, because we try to follow the age guidelines of national soccer.
c. Others. None.
PRAC Minutes/December 1996
Page 59
4. PAST COUNCIL ACTION
a. The Council approved the basketball court location in Maple Creek Park.
b. The Council approved the Armstrong agreement.
c. The Council accepted the senior citizen needs analysis report.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Ice arena/pool complex. Most of the metal roof is on, and the southerly wall is up.
They expect to have building totally enclosed by December 20. Floor will then be
heated. Planking for bleachers is in. After December 20, crew will begin putting in
heating systems. It will be at least March before the ice is ready. Life Time is expected
to open in May. We started a month behind them, but we will finish ahead of them. In
a few more weeks, the facility may be ready to tour.
b. West Medicine Lake Park update. The road is open to traffic, but the sidewalk that
goes with the road and the parking bay are not ready yet. The project is shaping up into
three phases. Second phase will be the new beach dredging, and the bridge. The bridge
was designed to be turn of the century but will start with basic bridge and add the
canopy portion later, maybe with our crew doing the work. Phase two will begin next
week. They first have to reroute 120 feet of water line. Then they will start dredging
the beach. The bridge is expected to be completed by late March. Phase three will be
everything else, grading, last parking lot, picnic shelter, trails, sand volleyball, and
children's playground. Consultants have been told to begin final grading plans. They
will be at the January meeting, so PRAC can look at the plans. Director Blank would
like to be out for bid in late March or early April on that work. By mid-May the rest of
the work on the park could begin. Phase 2 & 3 budget is $600,000. Commissioner
Johnson asked about the hard court. Director Blank said it cannot go where it was
originally planned, because it's a flood plain. He stated that there may not be enough
space to place a tennis court. The court will be a major issue. Ice fishing this winter is
being discouraged on the west side. There will be open water in the area where
fishermen have gone in the past. There is still auto access from east and north sides of
the lake, but we have closed off access on the west side. People can still walk onto lake
by parking in new parking lot, which is not paved or maintained at this time.
c. Open space update. Director Blank stated that the first three sites were all single owner
pieces and have all been acquired, but the fourth site had several owners. Seitzer's
portion has been acquired. Stewart (now Gene Lewis is owner) and Johnson Bros.
portions are on hold at this time. They are asking $150,000 for 13 acres of wetland.
The City Council tabled this last acquisition. A subcommittee formed to review the
situation, and the finance department did a fiscal analysis of the three million that was
set aside for open space and trails. There is only $115,000 left in the account to
purchase the last parcel. Subcommittee was afraid that if we proceeded with acquiring
Johnson Bros. parcel on the south end, there would be no way to link sites together
because of the site in the middle. Subcommittee has recommended that we not proceed
with Johnson Bros. site, because it's not connected to the Stewart property. And it's
PRAC Minutes/December 1996
Page 60
too much money to pay for swamp land. They advised staff to continue to negotiate for
land from the north to the south and from the east to the west.
d. Elm Creek Playfield update. Director Blank announced that the light towers have gone
up. The school district is rebidding the installation of fencing in January. The work
will commence in the spring. We now have grass on our soccer fields. The road project
and bridge will be complete when school opens in September, but it's possible that
some parts of the building may not be finished.
e. Golf course. The City wrote off all assessments on golf courses until the time that they
choose to connect to sewer for development purposes. The City has been working with
Hollydale owners on a plat coming in north of the railroad tracks. The alignment of
Holly Lane needs to be determined.
f. East Medicine Lake Regional Trail update. This project is bogged down in details,
housing issues, condemnations, etc. Only 200 feet of trail is at issue out of two miles.
Director Blank expects that within 30 days some issues will be resolved.
g. Ice arena behavior policies. Under the zero tolerance policy, no smoking or use of
tobacco products by anyone under 18 was added. Arena personnel will verbally warn
adults but will not ban them from building. A second addition to the zero tolerance
policy is any form of weapons will not be tolerated. We want to convey an atmosphere
that the building is friendly. Therefore we don't want too many signs telling people
what they cannot do. Bill displayed a metal sign that will be in the lobby. This sign was
manufactured by the Minnesota lce Arena Managers Association and is in all rinks in
the metro area. It contains 12 rules. Bill will attend hockey association meetings to
inform them of the rules. Will expect to have rules reproduced and given to the kids.
Commissioner Priebe questioned item 2 on the Welcome sign which discusses no
tobacco, alcohol or drug products being permitted in the facility. What about a pack of
cigarettes in someone's pocket? Bill explained that what they are trying to convey is no
use of tobacco, alcohol or drug products in the building. Commissioner Priebe thinks
that the sign should be amended to say no use of tobacco products or possession of
alcohol or drugs. Commissioners asked if there was a rule against using foul language?
Staff said that item is covered under the Disciplinary Action Program. Commissioner
Priebe suggested adding abusive language and racial slurs to the rule on foul language
and that some key phrases or words should be highlighted on the various signs, such as
item 1 about people assuming all inherent risks and responsibilities, etc. Bill said
additional signs will be in building in obvious places besides the Welcome sign that
lists the rules. All of those other signs will be amended to include the new language.
Bill feels that amending the metal Welcome sign would not be very economical,
because this is a standard sign which hangs in every arena in the metropolitan area.
Commissioner Johnson commented that eventually the Rollerblading folks will want the
sign changed to say in-line skating. Commissioners asked about the City's right to
search a person entering the building. Staff explained that police officers will be at the
PRAC Minutes/December 1996
Page 61
entrance to do that sort of thing if the situation warrants. There will be two police on
duty during all high school games. Councilmember Wold wanted to thank the
commissioner who brought up the issue of weapons and also stated that he thought Bill
did a great job with all the rules and policies. He also commented that he appreciated
the work of this Commission. Chair Anderson wondered what is the definition of
weapons besides the obvious guns and knives? What about hockey sticks off the ice?
They could be used as a weapon. Commissioner Wahl commented that the blades on
skates could be used as a weapon. Discussion continued on other things that could be
considered weapons, until staff said they needed to keep it simple. Commissioner
Priebe suggested that staff should run the language past the City's insurance company
to make sure we are covered from liability as much as possible. Commissioner Wahl
noticed in the Rules and Regulations that no one under 18 is allowed in penalty box or
scoreboard areas. It was suggested that rule be changed to say "except for game
participants" for clarity, etc. Staff indicated that the zero tolerance policy was also
changed to say "any form of fighting" would not be tolerated. Previously, the rule read
any form of off -ice fighting." Staff explained that they feel it is very important to
draw clear lines whenever possible when explaining the rules and regulations. The
police will be asked to handle any situation where a law is being broken. Staff and the
Commission concluded that you cannot define what a weapon is. Commissioner Priebe
commented that error of omission is the greatest risk. Director Blank indicated that
rules, regulations, and policies would all be amended based on suggestions made and
would be available at the January meeting for adoption by PRAC.
6. NEW BUSINESS
a. Director Blank discussed two individuals who approached him about a joint
soccer/tennis facility. He will meet with them again in the near future. A double bubble
is what they are looking at that would have four soccer fields that could be broken
down into eight tennis courts. He explained to them that we already have plans in the
works for a field house at the Elm Creek Playfield. Commissioner Wold asked if they
had a time frame. Director Blank said sometime in 1997. The high school site is one
possible location, but it might not be big enough for a double bubble. Another location
would be 34th Avenue along the high hill.
7. COMMISSION PRESENTATION
None.
8. STAFF COMMUNICATION
Director Blank suggested that the Commission formally thank Chuck Lymangood, Dave
Anderson and Nick Granath, members of the Council that are leaving office, for their past
help and support. COMMISSIONER PRIEBE MADE A MOTION TO THANK
RETIRING COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR THEIR LEADERSHIP AND SUPPORT WITH
PROJECTS SUCH AS THE OPEN SPACE PROGRAM, WEST MEDICINE LAKE
PARK, THE NEW WAYZATA HIGH SCHOOL/ELM CREEK PLAYFIELD PROJECT,
THE JOINT AGREEMENT WITH LIFE TIME FITNESS, AND NUMEROUS OTHER
PRAC Minutes/December 1996
Page 62
TRAIL AND PARK PROJECTS. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON SECONDED. THE
MOTION CARRIED.
Director Blank thanked the Commission for a great year and said he looks forward to
working with them next year.
9. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m.
December 20, 1996
CITY OF
PLYMOUTR
Joe Michels
Johnson Bros. Corporation
23577 MN Hwy. 22, PO Box 1002
Litchfield, MN 55355
Dear Joe:
Thank you for stopping by today to discuss your property in Plymouth. I'd like to briefly
recap what we discussed during our meeting. You indicated to me that Johnson Bros. is still
very interested in working and cooperating with the City of Plymouth to pursue the best use of
your property. I indicated to you that it is certainly the City of Plymouth's intent to also
continue to work cooperatively with Johnson Bros. to pursue the best long term use and
arrangement for this land.
As you know, on Wednesday night, December 18, the City Council did accept and approve
the subcommittee's report with regard to this property. The subcommittee made their
recommendation for not pursuing this deal at this time for three reasons.
1. As it turns out, expenditures on other property and our trail projects have exceeded our
expectations, and we currently do not have the funds available within the open space
bond allotment to meet this purchase agreement.
2. Because this land is separated from the other property we have purchased to the north,
the Council felt that it would be inappropriate to commit to the southerly piece not
knowing what was going to happen with the two intervening parcels at this time.
3. There was some feeling amongst the Council that the $150,000 price for the wetland
property was more than they felt comfortable expending.
The Council has directed that staff continue to negotiate with all three property owners in an
attempt to explore any and all avenues for packaging this land. They specifically directed that
we work from the north property to the south trying to link parcels as we acquire, and that we
continue to pursue property from the east to the west focusing on the wetland portions of each
parcel.
At this time, I think it is safe to say that Johnson Bros. is certainly free to pursue the sale of
your property, the development of your property, or to continue negotiating with the City in a
PLYMOUTH ABeau tifu(Pface'ToLive
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000
new agreement. I would be happy to meet with you, or your representative at any time to
discuss any of those three options.
Thank you for your time and patience in this matter. I certainly appreciate the understanding
you have demonstrated.
Sincerely,
Z --x, 54,,,X
Eric J. Blank, Director
Parks and Recreation
EB/np
cc: City Manager
City Council
City Attorney
PRAC
WAYZATA
January 6, 1997
Mr. Eric J. Blank, Director
Parks and Recreation
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd
Plymouth MN 55447
Dear Eric:
YOUTH HOCKEY
FkQc,
The purpose of this letter is to confirm our discussions concerning donations to the new
Plymouth Ice Center. District #284 Wayzata Youth Hockey Association has been
approached by two anonymous donors that have committed up to a combined total of
12,000 towards an upgrade of the arena bleacher system to Contour Seats Inc.,
Model number CS100....
The donors will provide this support with the following stipulations:
I, :The donors wishing to remain anonymous will issue checks to District #284
Wayzata Youth Hockey and ask that the Association present a check to the city at
the Arena's opening ceremonies.
2. The bleachers must be royal blue in color.
Eric, in closing, District #284 Youth Hockey Association has worked diligently in its
support of the Plymouth Ice Center. As a committed major user of this facility, we will
continue to work to insure it is a first class facility that both the City of Plymouth and
District #284 WYHA can be proud of into the future.
We look forward to continuing our mutually beneficial relationship on the arena project.
Sinc rel y,
7,SAV"--,
David Sorensen
District 284 Youth Hockey Association • P.O. Box 10, Wayzata, MN. 55391 •
December 19, 1996
CA0TV coF
PUMOUTR
Dave Sorensen
Plymouth/Wayzata Hockey Association
17710 30th Avenue N
Plymouth, MN 55447
Dear Dave and Board Members:
On behalf of the City of Plymouth and the Parks and Recreation Department, I would like to
thank you for your second generous donation of $75,000 for the Plymouth Ice Arena. This has
been an exciting year for all of us, and I'm sure you are as eager as we are for the grand
opening of this fabulous new facility. I look forward to seeing you on the ice!
Sincerely,
Eric J. Blank, Director
Parks and Recreation
EB/np
cc: City Manager
Ci Council
ark and Recreation Advisory Commission
PLYMOUTH ABeau tifulPlaceToLive
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-1482 • TELEPHONE (612) 509-5000
WELCOME
Please observe rules of good sportsmanship and
conduct both on and off the ice.
1. Those participating in facility activities assume all inherent risks and
responsibilities, whether spectator or participant.
2. No tobacco, alcohol, or drug products are permitted in this facility.
3. During ice rentals, only team members, coaches, and managers are allowed in
the players boxes.
4. Users of the facility are responsible for the supervision and conduct of
participants and spectators both on and off the ice.
5. Absolutely no one is allowed on the ice during resurfacing times.
6. Consumption of food and beverages is prohibited on the ice and in the players
boxes.
7. Acts of vandalism to the building or grounds should be reported immediately.
Vandals will be held liable for the full amount of damages caused.
8. Your assistance is requested in maintaining the appearance of this building.
Please put trash, litter, and recyclables in designated containers.
9. The facility or its management is not responsible for lost or stolen articles.
I O.The use of sticks or pucks, in the off ice areas of this facility is prohibited.
11.Roller blading or skate boarding inside the building is not allowed.
12.Please observe all posted rules and regulations.
RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR USE OF
THE PLYMOUTH ICE CENTER
LOCKER ROOMS
Available %z hour before or as soon as preceding team is out and as soon as possible after designated ice
rental period. A team shall be issued a locker room key. One person shall be designated to be responsible
for the key and should then return it at the end of the locker room use. Teams are responsible for any
vandalism occurring during their use of the locker room and will be billed for any malicious destruction.
ARENA OFFICE
OFF LIMITS TO EVERYONE except Arena personnel unless business related. No office equipment such
as telephone, storage, stationery, pens, pencils, chalk, etc. is available for public use.
HOCKEY RINK
NO ONE ON ICE until Zamboni gates are closed and countdown timer is set. Nobody is permitted on ice
while zamboni is in operation. Teams, coaches, and groups should not enter rink until management so
indicates or the zamboni is off the ice and the gates are closed. Teams, coaches, and groups are expected
to have vacated the ice when the rental period is over. Violations of this rule might result in an extra
charge for added ice time.
ARENA SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT
The Arena will supply all materials essential to the operation of the facility. These materials shall include
such things as toilet paper, hand towels in bathrooms, blackboards in locker rooms, etc. However, certain
materials will not supplied by the Arena. These materials include such items as bath towels, chalk,
stationery, pencils, telephone, etc.
SCOREBOARD/PENALTY BOX/PLAYERS BOX
No one under the age of 18 will be allowed inside the penalty and scoreboard boxes. This includes the
operation of the scoreboard and door operators in the penalty box. No one allowed in players boxes
without a helmet other than coaches and team managers.
STORAGE
Except for any predetermined storage rooms, there is no storage space other than the locker rooms which
are provided during the rental period only.
THIS FACILITY IS TOBACCO, ALCOHOL, AND DRUG FREE.
NO SMOKING OR TOBACCO CHEWING IS ALLOWED IN ANY PART OF THIS FACILITY.
Smoking is permitted only outside the building for those age 18 and older. No alcohol or durg use in the
building or on the grounds is allowed.
NO SPITTING
ABSOLUTELY NO SPITTING IS ALLOWED anywhere within this facility except on ice.
FOOD AND BEVERAGES
No food or beverage can be brought into the facility and absolutely no food or beverage of any kind is
allowed in the locker rooms without permission.
City ply\voll\PARKS\STAFMBILL\MISC\RULESREG.DOC
PLYMOUTH ICE CENTER
DISCIPLINARY ACTION PROGRAM
The Plymouth Ice Center is adopting a Disciplinary Action Program for person(s) disobeying any
of the arena's rules and regulations.
Rules and Regulations:
1. No spitting anywhere in building, except on ice.
2. No use of sticks or pucks in off ice areas.
3. No obscene language, abusive language or racial slurs.
4. No wearing skates without skate guards on bleachers or any other areas not protected by
rubber flooring.
5. No being on ice during resurfacing or while zamboni gates are open.
6. No smoking or chewing tobacco in building.
7. No being in penalty, player, or press box or any areas not allowed without permission.
8. No having food or beverage on ice or in players boxes.
9. No in-line skating or skateboarding in building.
The disciplinary action for anyone found disobeying these rules is as follows:
V Offense Warning (name, phone number, parent(s) name and rule
broken recorded)
2nd Offense Removal from building for three (3) days. (Name, phone
number, rule broken recorded and parent notified).
Td Offense Dismissal from building for seven (7) days including all
practices and games and parent notified.
4U' Offense Dismissal from building for entire season, not being allowed
to play in any hockey programs.
CiTyslyWol I \PARKS\STAPP\BILL1NllSC1DISCPLIN.DOC
PLYMOUTH ICE CENTER
ZERO TOLERANCE PROGRAM
The Plymouth Ice Center is adopting a zero tolerance disciplinary action program for person(s)
disobeying any in the following list of rules.
WE WILL NOT TOLERATE:
1. Any acts of vandalism or damage to the facility
2. Any form of fighting
3. Any theft or stealing
4. Any use of alcohol or drugs
5. Any form of discrimination
6. Any smoking or use of tobacco products by anyone under age 18
7. Any form of weapons
These rules are in effect both inside the facility or outside on the grounds)
The disciplinary action for anyone found disobeying these rules is as follows:
First Offense Dismissal from the building for seven (7) days including all practices and
games. Parents and/or police will be notified.
Second Offense Dismissal from the building for entire season, including any hockey
programs. Parents and/or police notified.
Police will be called to investigate any malicious damage and charges will be filed. Also, if any
offenses cause damage to the building or equipment, all costs of repairs or replacement will be
paid for by the person(s) involved in the incident before access will be allowed into the building.
Citysly\von \PARKS\STAFFIBILL\MISC\ZEROTOL.DOC
DATE: January 6, 1997
TO: PRAC
FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director, Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Annual Report
Attached is a draft of the 1996 Annual Report. As requested by the City Council, the Park
Commission must include a Work Plan for 1997 in the annual report. Please come to
Thursday's meeting with some ideas that we can discuss.
EB/np
Attachment
Reflections of Leisure
FOCUS ON QUALITY
Plymouth Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission
1996 Annual Report
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
January 1996
Honorable Mayor
City Council
City of Plymouth Residents
A successful bond referendum for the preservation of open space was one of the many necessary
accomplishments in 1995 for the City of Plymouth regarding the activities of the Parks and Recreation
Department. Also, due to the receipt of a grant for an ice arena and a report from a special youth
sports facilities task force, the City is exploring the development of some badly needed recreational
facilities. The future appears to present some important challenges for the Park Commission. It will
need to focus its efforts on many needs of the community, including an analysis of the need for a public
golf course.
Accomplishments in 1995 included:
A youth sports facilities study was completed which determined that a number of new facilities
would be required to meet the current and future needs of youth sports.
Four open space sites were approved for purchase by the City following the successful passage
of a bond referendum. Three of the sites were acquired in 1995.
Several program enhancements and playground improvements were undertaken in 1995,
including the paving of an outdoor hockey rink at Plymouth Creek Park, installation of sand
volleyball courts at Parkers Lake, installation of batting cages at Parkers Lake Playfield, safety
fencing at Pilgrim Lane, Zachary Lane and Greenwood Elementary school ballfields, and new
playgrounds at Mission Hills, Schmidt Lake and Timber Shores parks.
The Commission recommended the purchase of the Ess property in northeast Plymouth, which
was later determined to be suitable land for additional softball fields.
Construction began on the new Elm Creek Playfield/Wayzata High School complex. —
The City was a successful recipient of a Mighty Ducks ice arena grant and began exploring
ways to build an ice arena and a swimming pool/fitness complex, as well as a much needed
activity center for senior citizens.
The Commission is grateful to all who were involved with the above for their fine efforts.
Respectfully submitted,
Donald D. Anderson
Chair
1996 PARK AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORT
Table of Contents
Letterof Transmittal.......................................................................................... I
Members of the Commission................................................................................ 3
Commission Attendance Chart .............................................................................. 4
1997 Work Plan................................................................................................ 5
1996 Highlights................................................................................................ 8
Administration............................................................................................... 11
Recreation/Athletic Section................................................................................ 14
VolunteerProgram.......................................................................................... 24
Environmental/Forestry Section.......................................................................... 27
1996 -2-
1996 PARK AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION
There are seven members on the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission, each appointed
for a three-year term by the City Council. The chair is appointed by the members of the
Commission and serves for a term of one year. The Commission serves in an advisory
capacity to the City Council.
Commission Members
Name Phone Number Term Expires
Donald Anderson, Chair 545-3608 1/31/98
417 Union Terrace Lane
Plymouth, MN 55441
Tim Bildsoe 476-4732 1/31/99
18840 32nd Avenue resigned 1/96)
Plymouth, MN 55447
Ron Fiemann 476-4152 1/31/97
17415 32nd Avenue
Plymouth, MN 55447
Tom Johnson 557-0822 1/31/97
2345 W Medicine Lake Dr.
Plymouth, MN 55441
David Priebe 559-0706 1/31/98
3825 Forestview Lane
Plymouth, MN 55441
Kathleen Thompson 553-1174 1/31/99
16010 46th Avenue appointed 1/96)
Plymouth, MN 55446
Mark Wahl 553-9563 1/31/99
11640 52nd Avenue
Plymouth, MN 55442
Henry Willegalle 473-1069 1/31/97
1525 Juneau Lane
Plymouth, MN 55447
1996 -3-
Park Commission Attendance Chart
X = Absent
1996 -4-
Total
of Total Term
Commissioner Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Mtgs. Absences Expires Notes
No
Anderson meet 11 0 1/98
No Appt. to
Bildsoe meet 1 0 1/99 Planning
Comm.
after Jan.
mtg.
No
Fiemann meet X 11 1 1/97
No
Johnson X meet X 11 2 1/97
No
Priebe X X meet X 11 3 1/98
No Appt.
Thompson X X meet X 3 1/99 Jan. `96
No
Wahl X X X meet 11 3 1/99
No
Willegalle meet 11 0 1/97
X = Absent
1996 -4-
1997 WORK PLAN
1996 -5-
FR 1Ii1111-9AQW.'"L
1. The Commission plans to review and explore the long term future potential for the loss of
one or more of the City's three public golf courses. During the course of the year, contacts
should be made with each of the golf course owners to explore in depth their future plans
for their land. The Commission may consider bringing in a golf course consultant to
analyze the current conditions of one or more of the golf courses for future public golf
consideration. The goal is by the end of the year to set a course of action which will
protect the long term integrity of one or more of the golf courses.
See Highlight no. 8.
2. The Commission has recommended to the City Council that the northeast neighborhood
park lying east of Zachary Lane and just south of County Road 10 be developed in 1996.
The development with neighborhood involvement of a comprehensive plan for the park and
ultimately the physical development of the park should all be accomplished in 1996.
See Highlight no. 7.
3. The City should continue the joint project with Greenwood Elementary School for the
redevelopment of a new playground and landscaping of the school site.
See Highlight no. 11.
4. The successful completion of phase one of West Medicine Lake Park and the
implementation of phase two should be started in 1996. The Commission will have to fine
tune the master plan for the site dealing with a couple of issues, specifically tennis court
location and dredging of the Plymouth Creek channel. The Commission will continue to
look at the long term possibility of adding a park building to this location.
See Highlight no. 2
5. The Commission will continue to review and update as needed the City's comprehensive
trail system plan. The successful completion of the 1995 projects that were started in the
fall and the additional 12 sections in 1996 should also be completed by year's end. The
City has also been notified that we are the recipient of a 1999 grant for an off-road trail
bridge across 494 at County Road 9. Planning for this bridge should proceed in 1996.
Ten miles of trail construction work was substantially completed during 1996. Also, trails
on both sides of County Road 9 between 494 and Minnesota Lane were under construction.
6. The Park and Recreation Advisory Commission and the sub -committee on open space will
reconvene to review the operational rules and regulations for the recently acquired open
space property. Recommendations on such things as the development of trails, signs, deer
management, etc., will be brought forward to the City Council after there has been
opportunity for citizen review of the recommended operational procedures.
1996 -6-
No activity was completed on this issue, because negotiations are still underway for
property in southeast Plymouth.
7. The Park and Recreation Advisory Commission will work closely with the Planning
Commission and staff when planning for northwest Plymouth is undertaken. Major items
to be considered are: the golf courses that are predominantly located in the rural area, the
location and acquisition of the tenth playfield, location of two or three additional
neighborhood parks and a major trail corridor paralleling Elm Creek.
Planning for northwest Plymouth was delayed until 1997.
8. The Commission will develop recommendations on a scholarship program for low income
individuals to allow them reasonable access to the ice arena and Life Time Fitness
swimming pool facilities.
In November the Park Commission endorsed, and the City Council approved, a scholarship
program for the Life Time Fitness Club.
9. The Park Commission will continue to work with senior citizen representatives in their
ongoing work regarding the need for an activity center.
The Commission approved the Senior Citizen Report and the Council accepted the report in
December.
1996 -7-
1996 HIGHLIGHTS
The Park Commission remained extremely active during 1996. Listed below are some of the highlights
the Commission accomplished this year:
1. Plymouth Ice Center/Life Time Fitness Club
On February 6, the voters of Plymouth approved the funding source to build a Plymouth ice
center. This new sports complex is a three-way partnership between the Wayzata School District,
Life Time Fitness and the City of Plymouth. The City and School District contributed $3.1 million
to Life Time Fitness for the construction and operation of three pools, two indoor and one
outdoor. It is believed that this is the first public/private partnership in America of thissiar_r«
The unique aspect is that you do not have to be a member of Life Time Fitness to enjoy the
facilities, but rather may use the club on a daily admission fee, like other public recreation centers.
A ground breaking ceremony was held on Thursday, May 2, to celebrate the beginning of the
project. The club and ice arena are scheduled to open in April of 1997.
Following a very wide search, the City was very pleased to hire Bill Abel as the first ice center
manager in the City's history. Mr. Abel started on August 1, and has been working diligently on
assuring the proper construction of the arena project. Bill joins the City of Plymouth after 16 years
of runningring the ice facility for the City of Willmar.
2. West Medicine Lake Park
Construction continued on West Medicine Lake Park in 1996. The major work was the
construction of a bridge over Plymouth Creek and the paving of the new roadway. The last of
Phase 1 work was completed making the way for Phase 2 and 3 to be completed in 1997 on this
park project
3. Elm Creek Playfield
Construction continued on the Ehn Creek Playfield during 1996. By the end of the year, all of the
soccer and softball fields had been graded, irrigation installed, seeded and the light towers
installed. In 1997, the multi-purpose building and fencing will be completed. This facility is
scheduled to open in the fall of 1997 or spring of 1998.
4. Senior Citizen Needs Analysis
On November 20, the Senior Citizen Needs Analysis Report was presented to the City Council.
The report had previously been reviewed by the Youth Sports Task Force Committee and the Park
and Recreation Advisory Commission and endorsed by both. The report suggests the great need
and desire to have a facility that would allow our senior citizens to remain active at a central
location for many years to come. It is anticipated that the Park Commission and City Council will
review this issue further in 1997.
1996 -8-
5. Amphitheater
The Park Maintenance Division, under the leadership of Mark Peterson and Dan Heitke, worked
miracles in developing a new amphitheater for the 1996 Music in Plymouth program. The new
amphitheater, lying between City Hall and the new rec sports complex, was carved out of the
woods and includes a man-made lake. A giant platform area, 70 x 70 of concrete, was laid in order
to allow for the multi-purpose use of many different stage events. On July 2, over 10,000 people
showed up at the new amphitheater to hear the world renowned Up with People Choir along with
the Minnesota Orchestra. In 1997, additional lighting and water fountains will be added to this
project.
6. Maple Creek Park
A new playground was installed at Maple Creek Park in 1996. This necessitated the relocation of
the basketball hard court. Selecting a site for the hard court proved to be more difficult than
originally anticipated, but in the end a permanent location was identified and approved by the City
Council.
7. Cardinal Ridge Park
What many think will be the most beautiful neighborhood park in our system began construction in
1996 in northeast Plymouth. What is commonly referred to as Cardinal Ridge Park encompasses a
number of island and large wetlands and some open lake areas. The bulk of the construction will
be completed in 1997.
8. Golf Course Review
In accordance with the Park Commission's work plan, the Commission undertook to study and
further bring up to date their knowledge with regard to golf courses. To this end, the Commission
invited each of the owners of the three golf courses in Plymouth to attend a Park Commission
meeting. The Commission discussed with each of the owners what they would like to see the future
of the courses be and what help the City could be to ensure their long term future. Late in the
year, the City Council took formal action to delay assessments on two of the golf courses in order
to prevent them from being forced to consider development. In December, the City worked with a
proposed developer to lay out a new alignment for future Holly Lane, which would allow for the
expansion of Hollydale golf course at some time in the future. These actions would appear to be a
good start in helping the golf courses remain viable operators for many years.
9. East Medicine Lake Regional Trail
The City, in cooperation with Hennepin Parks, worked diligently in planning for the East
Medicine Lake Regional Trail during 1996. On March 18, a meeting was held at Armstrong High
School to unveil the idea and solicit community input. Over 165 residents attended the meeting and
voiced strong support for the further consideration of this project. By year's end, a study showing
the best alternatives had been completed and work was being undertaken to overcome the last
major hurdles that would prevent this project from moving forward in 1997.
1996 -9-
10. Log Cabin for Parkers Lake
Through the gracious donation of Carol Creelman, funding was secured to replicate the old log
cabin located on county property at Vicksburg Lane and County Road 6. The log cabin makers in
Ely, Minnesota, have undertaken the project of replicating the facility. While this was being done,
the Park Maintenance crew developed and prepared a site along the shores of Parkers Lake to
receive the future log cabin. We anticipate that in the spring of 1997, the cabin will be delivered
and opened for public review.
11. Donations of Funding
The City was very pleased to be able to cooperate in providing $55,000 of funding to Greenwood
Elementary School for an upgrade of their playground and an additional $27,000 to Armstrong
High School for fencing at their new baseball/softball complex.
12. Agreements for Armstrong and Wayzata Gyms
In 1995, the Youth Sports Task Force report indicated that the community was currently suffering
from a shortage of gym space and would continue for many years unless something was done to
correct the situation. In 1996, the City reached an agreement with both the Robbinsdale and
Wayzata School Districts for improving this situation. A $700,000 was made to the Wayzata
School District for two additional gym spaces at the new Wayzata High School. A $1.3 million
agreement was signed with the Robbinsdale School District for a gymnasium expansion onto
Armstrong High School. The Wayzata gyms are scheduled to open in the fall of 1997, and it is
hoped that the Armstrong gym will also open by the late fall of 1997.
1996 -10-
ADMINISTRATION
1996 Park and Recreation Staff
EricBlank............................................................................................. Director
Bill Abel (hired August 1)............................................................Ice Arena Manager
Cindy Anderson..................................................................... Recreation Supervisor
Nancy Anderson....................................................... Part -Time Volunteer Coordinator
Mary Bisek...................................................................Superintendent of Recreation
Rick Busch............................................................................ Recreation Supervisor
Karol Greupner...................................................................... Recreation Supervisor
Sara Mittelstaedt..................................................... Part -Time Senior Program Advisor
Nancy Pederson...................................................................................... Secretary
Gerry Rapson.......................................................................Part-Time Clerk Typist
DonnaSankey............................................................................Data Control Clerk
Mark Peterson...................................................................... Superintendent of Parks
PaulBuck.............................................................................................. Forester
Daniel Heitke............................................................................... Parks Supervisor
1996 11-
FINANCIAL
If you are a Plymouth resident, for each $100 in property tax you paid in 1996, on the average:
12.14 went to the City of Plymouth.
Of this $12.14,
Of that:
2.24 went to Plymouth's Park and Recreation Department.
0.30 was for Administration
1.46 was for Park Maintenance
0.23 was for Recreation Programs
0.25 was for Park Bond Debt Service
2.24
For 1996, the budgeted revenues and expenses of the Park and Recreation Department were
summarized as follows:
Sources of Revenue
State
Expenditures Property Tax Fees Grant Surplus Misc.
Administration 290,790 290,790
Maintenance 1,419,384 1,419,384
Recreation Programs 793,228 241,972
TOTALS 2,503,402 1,952,146
1996 -12-
900 0 0 4
1995 PARK & RECREATION
BUDGETED EXPENDITURES
Park Bond
Debt Service Administration
Recreation 11% 9%
Program
11%
Park
Maintenance
69%
1996 PARK & RECREATION
BUDGETED EXPENDITURES
Park Bond
Debt Service
Recreation 11%
Program
10%
Administration
13%
Park
Maintenance
66%
1996 -13-
900000
800000
700000
600000
500000
400000
300000
200000
100000
0
RECREATION FEES & EXPENSES
1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996
91—Recreation Fees Expenses
EXPENSES COVERED BY RECREATION FEES
Expenses
Exceeding
Reveni
31%
Based on budgeted figures.
1996 -14-
creation
Fees
69%
I81
V
L
RECREATION PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS
DYouth ®Adult ON Ages pSeniors
The above graph includes numbers for summer T -Ball, K -Ball, Softball, Instructional Baseball,
Flag Football and Fall Soccer. Other youth sports leagues are run by volunteer athletic
associations.
Existing programs are evaluated and adapted in response to community input.
New programs for 1996 included:
Adaptive Gymnastics and Mini Hops; Basketball, Softball, Club West, Karate, On the Town;
Diving I & II; The Play's the Thing, How Does Your Garden Grow, Totally Tumbling, Art
Exhibits Tour, Over 40 Slowpitch Baseball, Summer Basketball Camps, Gingerbread House
Workshop, Junior Baseball Program, Officiated 4 -Man Football League, Adult In -Line Skating
Instruction, Plymouth Community Arts Classes, "Picture Plymouth" Contest for Art Fair
Artists, Plymouth Community Arts Committee, Plymouth Woodcarvers, Over 55 Softball
League, Hearing Tests, River Walk, Minnesota History Sessions, Luncheons with
entertainment, Cookbook, Medicare Seminar.
1996 -15-
BEACH & WARMING HOUSE VISITORS
1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996
O-BEACH WARMIN HHOUSE
City of Plymouth beaches are: East Medicine Lake and Parkers Lake. Highlights this year:
Parkers Lake beach was open from June 1 -August 18
Medicine East Beach was open from June 8 -August 11
Due to cool temperatures and rain, Parkers Lake Beach did not open Memorial Weekend.
June was cool and sunny through most of the month. High winds were often reported on
site. Temperatures rose into the 90's June 25-30.
July started off warm and sunny through the July 4th weekend, but turned cool and windy
towards the end of the month.
August temperatures varied between 66 and 92 degrees, and it was a dry month, even
though there were several threats of rain.
In 1997, a national recognized formula to determine accurate beach populations will be
used. We will also continue the current visitor count in 1997 for comparison purposes.
1987 - Parkers Lake Beach opened (still under construction).
1991 - West Medicine Lake Beach closed.
Plymouth runs warming houses at Zachary, Plymouth Middle School, Plymouth Creek,
LaCompte, Oakwood, Ridgemount, Bass Lake and Parkers Lake. There were many closed
days due to poor weather conditions.
1988 - Parkers Lake warming house opened.
1993 - Bass Lake Warming house opened for a full season.
1996 -16-
NATIONAL YOUTH SPORTS COACHES ASSOCIATION
In 1981, the National Youth Sports Coaches Association (NYSCA) was created to improve
non -school youth sports. They are now endorsed and supported by over 200 national
organizations and 2,000 recreation agencies nationwide. Through 1996, NYSCA had certified
over 1,000,000 coaches.
The program is conducted via video tapes by local certified clinicians. The clinics consist of
two, two-hour videos. Part I covers the areas of: psychology of coaching children, safety and
first aid (including guiding children away from drug, tobacco and alcohol use), maximizing
performance, and child abuse in youth sports. Part 11 gives specific information on coaching
that particular sport, including: how to organize practices and teach the fundamentals in an
efficient, fun manner. When coaches return the 2nd and 3rd year, they move on to more
advanced tapes on working with children. Once coaches have completed their third year
certification, they become lifetime members for as long as they renew their fees. Cost for
certification is $15 per year and includes $500,000 liability coverage for each coach.
The City of Plymouth Park and Recreation Department became a NYSCA chapter in 1987.
Under the leadership of Chapter Director Rick Busch, and certified clinicians, Cindy Anderson
and Greg Finn, Plymouth has certified 1,842 coaches from 11 associations in six sports over
the past 10 years. In 1995, Rick Busch was awarded the NYSCA's highest award, that of
Outstanding Youth Sports Leader" during ceremonies at their National Headquarters in West
Palm Beach, Florida.
The NYSCA certification program has played a major role in emphasizing to coaches the
importance of the well being of the children they serve over any win -loss record. Listed below
are the NYSCA's National Standards for Youth Sports, and a listing of the Plymouth youth
sports programs that have been involved along with the years they participated.
National Standards for Youth Sports
1. Proper Sports Environment
Parents must consider and carefully choose the proper sports environment for their child,
including the appropriate age and development for participation, the type of sport, the
rules of the sport, the age range of the participants, and the proper level of physical and
emotional stress.
2. Programs Based on the Well Being of Children
Parents must select youth sports programs that are developed and organized to enhance
the emotional, physical, social and educational well-being of children.
3. Drug, Tobacco and Alcohol -Free Environment
Parents must encourage a drug, tobacco and alcohol -free environment for their children.
4. Part of a Child's Life
Parents must recognize that youth sports are only a part of a child's life.
1996 -17-
5. Training
Parents must insist that coaches are trained and certified.
6. Parent's Active Role
Parents must make a serious effort to take an active role in the youth sports experience of
their child providing positive support as a spectator, coach, league administrator and/or
caring parent.
7. Positive Role Models
Parents must provide positive role models, exhibiting sportsmanlike behavior at games,
practices, and home, while also giving positive reinforcement to their child and support
to their child's coaches.
8. Parental Commitment
Parents must demonstrate their commitment to their child's youth sports experience by
annually signing the Parents Code of Ethics Pledge.
9. Safe Playing Situations
Parents must insist on safe playing facilities, healthful playing situations, and proper first
aid applications, should the need arise.
10. Equal Play Opportunity
Parents, coaches and league administrators must provide equal sports play opportunity
for all youth regardless of race, creed, sex, economic status or ability.
11. Drug, Tobacco and Alcohol -Free Adults
Parents must be drug, tobacco and alcohol -free at youth league sporting events.
Participating Plymouth Youth Sports Groups
Plymouth/Wayzata Baseball Association (1987-1996)
Plymouth/Wayzata Softball Association (1987-1995)
Plymouth/Wayzata Football Association (1991)
Plymouth/Wayzata Hockey Association (1987)
Plymouth/Wayzata Basketball Association (1990-1995)
Plymouth Soccer Association (1992-1993)
New Hope/Plymouth Baseball Association (1994-1996)
New Hope/Plymouth Football Association (1994-1996)
New Hope/Plymouth Soccer Association (1994-1996)
New Hope/Plymouth Basketball Association (1992-1996)
Plymouth Parks and Recreation Fall Soccer (1987-1996)
1996 -18-
Coaches Certified
495
68
94
12
206
108
96
105
103
136
312
10 YEAR ENROLLMENT IN PLYMOUTH ADULT TEAM SPORTS 1987-96
UNOFFICIATED
Fall 3 -Man BKB
Winter 3 -Man BKB
Spring 3 -Man BKB
Summer 5 -Man BKB
Winter 5 -Man BKB
Fall 5 -Man BKB
Fall Volleyball
Winter Volleyball
Beach Volleyball
4 -Man Football
Co-Rec Broomball
Softball Warmup
4 -Man Hockey
Total Unofficiated
OFFICIATED
4 -Man Football
Winter 5 -Man BKB
Fall Power Volleyball
Winter Power Volleyball
Summer Softball
Fall Softball
Total Officiated
TOTALTEAMS
350
300
250
200 -
150
100
50
0
1987 1988
1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996
36 36 40 28 28 32 33 32 24 24
36 41 43 48 36 32 32 32 30 24
36 32 26 32 24 20 30 24 32 30
0 0 0 0 4 5 6 8 11 6
0 0 0 0 6 8 8 11 10 12
0 0 0 16 16 16 16 17 16 16
50 48 44 50 44 42 39 34 32 25
36 40 46 42 46 42 38 36 38 35
6 6 12 22 24 24 22 21 16 8
32 32 32 32 28 23 16 11 16 8
10 22 14 15 14 8 9 8 10 14
26 28 22 24 25 16 16 8 0
12 14 12 13 16 15 12 12 14 12
280 299 291 322 311 283 261 262 257 214
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6
18 22 22 20 21 18 18 18 18 12
0 0 0 0 0 6 6 6 5 0
12 12 12 12 9 9 11 9 8 6
186 198 210 185 193 195 191 185 167 145
38 49 56 64 64 79 80 73 71 48
254 281 300 281 287 307 306 291 269 211
534 580 591 603 598 590 567 553 526 425
TEAMS ENROLLED IN PLYMOUTH ADULT TEAM SPORTS
1989 1990 1991 1992 1993
O—Total Officiated --[]--Total Unoffciated
1996 -19-
1994 1995 1996
PLYMOUTH PLAYFIELD USAGE 1987-96 - NUMBER OF GAMES PLAYED
Softball 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996
Bass Lake 0 0 0 0 0 0 14 14 22 30
Oakwood 42 35 48 45 53 73 42 67 81 68
Parkers Lake
74 93 71 76 65 77 59
58 56 30
Plymouth Creek 330 205 188 232 210 266 276 228 173 20
Plymouth Middle School 172 147 130 16 12 8 12 10 15 12
Ridgemount 0 4 8 8 16 0 17 16 8 10
Zachary 1 360 1301 1701 1725 1634 1600 1846 1 608 1648 1486
Totals 1,904 1,692 2,075 2,026 1,925 2,340 2,207 2,001 2,003 1,656
60-75' Baseball
0 0 0 0 0 0 92 260 300 304
Bass Lake 0 0 0 0 0 0 16 28 24 44
LaCompte 90 111 81 120 114 129 136 152 137 164
Oakwood 20 38 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Parkers 0 0 0 0 0 0 70 0 0 0
Plymouth Creek 27 30 59 52 55 86 69 80 80 100
Plymouth Middle School 73 121 141 210 175 180 175 135 180 178
Ridgemount 0 0 26 40 65 66 56 75 82 66
Zachary 0 0 0 0 14 21 65 52 77 129
Totals 210 300 307 422 413 482 487 522 580 681
90' Baseball
Bass Lake 0 0 0 0 0 0 40 45 43 63
Oakwood 50 36 67 80 73 50 59 73 81 67
Parkers Lake 0 0 0 0 0 0 94 96 148 213
Plymouth Creek 74 93 71 76 65 77 59 67 87 90
Zachary 68 102 110 96 91 95 81 73 82 68
Totals 192 231 248 252 229 222 333 354 441 501
Soccer
30 24 30 29 36 26 20 20 18 16
Bass Lake 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 54 102 95
Oakwood 268 263 448 220 141 202 243 200 466 320
Parkers Lake 0 0 0 0 0 0 92 260 300 304
Plymouth Creek 65 48 38 39 126 100 115 432 445 219
Plymouth Middle School 61 64 57 114 186 168 189 260 205 211
Ridgemount 164 233 253 162 190 168 52 139 185 165
Zachary 180 177 219 180 184 157 193 185 204 183
Totals 738 785 1,015 715 817 795 884 1,530 1,907 1,497
Tackle Football
Oakwood 54 60 45 45 0 18 34 46 46 41
Plymouth Middle School 6 20 27 41 32 30 40 40 50 55
Ridgemount 8 3 4 5 3 3 4 4 4 10
Totals 68 83 76 91 35 51 74 90 100 106
Broomball
Plymouth Creek 40 56 21 29 25 28 35 28 66 49
Ridgemount 0 21 21 28 24 0 0 0 0 0
Totals 40 77 42 57 49 28 35 28 66 49
4 -Man Hockey
Plymouth Creek 0 25 30 29 36 17 20 20 18 16
Plymouth Middle School 0 0 0 0 0 17 20 20 20 16
Zachary 30 24 30 29 36 26 20 20 18 16
Totals 30 49 60 58 72 60 60 60 56 48
Touch Football
Plymouth Creek 118 118 118 112 98 0 66 55 80 49
Zachary 0 0 0 0 0 80 0 0 0 0
Totals 118 118 118 112 98 80 66 55 SO 49
1996 -20-
PLYMOUTH PLAYFIELD USAGE 1987-96 (continued)
Totals Per Playfield 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996
Bass Lake 0 0 0 0 0 0 70 141 191 232
LaCompte 90 111 81 120 114 129 136 152 137 164
Oakwood 432 432 608 390 267 343 378 386 674 496
Parkers Lake 0 0 0 0 0 0 256 414 504 547
Plymouth Creek 654 575 525 569 615 574 640 910 949 494
Plymouth Middle School 312 352 355 381 405 403 436 565 470 472
Ridgemount 172 261 312 243 298 250 129 234 279 251
Zachary 1638 1604 2060 2030 1959 2279 2205 1938 2029 1882
Totals 3,298 3,335 3,941 3,733 3,660 3,978 4,250 4,740 5,233 4,538
These totals do not include team practices, school physical education classes, drop-in usage,
or any activities scheduled on school district facilities in Plymouth.)
Bass Lake Plavfield
1 soccer/football field
1 hockey rink
1 softball field
190' baseball field
Oakwood Plavfield
3 soccer/football fields
1 hockey rink
2 softball/baseball fields
190' baseball field
Plymouth Playfield
3 soccer/football fields
2 hockey rinks
3 softball/baseball fields
Ridgemount Playfield
3 soccer/football fields
2 hockey rinks
2 softball/baseball fields
1996 -21-
LaCompte Park
2 softball/baseball fields
1 hockey rink
Parkers Lake Playfield
2 soccer/football fields
1 softball/baseball fields
2 90' baseball field
Plvmouth Creek Park
2 soccer/football fields
2 hockey rinks
2 softball/baseball fields
190' baseball field
Zachary PlavfSeld
2 soccer/football fields
2 hockey rinks
4 softball/baseball fields
190' baseball field
PLYMOUTH ICE CENTER
The Plymouth Ice Center has been under construction for most of 1996. By year's end, the
facility is expected to be entirely enclosed. Most of the work should move indoors shortly after
the new year with possible completion sometime in the spring. The ice center is scheduled to
be open for business in April or May of 1997.
The operation of the ice center will be responsible in meeting the needs of the City and its
residents, to provide a wide range of recreational activities and uses. It is estimated these
various uses will attract almost 250,000 people into the facility, most of which will be local
residents, but many will be from outside the Plymouth area. Thus, the motels, restaurants,
service stations, retail stores, many local businesses, and residents of Plymouth will benefit
greatly from this new facility. The actual economic impact on this community will be too vast
to measure. Assessing the recreational benefits this facility will have to offer are somewhat
easier. The ice center will respond to public needs and uses consistently with a seven day a
week operation, 14 to 16 hours per day starting at 6 a.m. and ending around midnight,
including weekends and holidays. Skating has, over the years, had no bounds. It has evolved
into a very acceptable recreation venture whether in the form of hockey, figure skating, public
open skating, or just spectating. The large numbers of individuals along with the extensive
hours of operation will acknowledge this facility to serve as a source of recreational
opportunities for all residents involving young and old, male and female, for many years to
come.
Priority usage has been established and approved for the Plymouth Ice Center. The following
is a listing of primary usage in order of priority.
1. All City sponsored programs including open to public skating, learn to skate programs,
skating schools and clinics
2. Wayzata and Armstrong High School hockey programs
3. Wayzata Youth Hockey Association
4. Other Plymouth youth programs
5. Plymouth adult programs
6. Other outside community youth groups
7. Private rentals
These groups will have approximately 120 hours per week of prime time hours available to
them. This includes the use of both ice sheets, but does not reflect additional hours available
during holidays and non -school days. Nor does it show the endless number of non -prime hours
for late evening and early morning rentals.
1996 -22-
The Plymouth Ice Center will create and preserve a high quality aesthetically appealing
environment, which will compare to and supersede the top rated venues in the state. To do
this, it will operate on a preventative maintenance format, which means the facility and its
equipment will be checked and maintained as needed on a monthly to yearly basis. Because of
constant daily use and the demand of a strict schedule all equipment and structures must be
cared for before a breakdown, thus preventing its occurrence. This type of program may have
some adverse effects on a yearly operating expense budget, but in the long run will save many
thousands of dollars in equipment replacement or building refurbishing. This method of
operation will, in fact, be partly responsible for the Plymouth Ice Center's value to increase
with time, which will become a positive factor for the City and the Plymouth residents as well.
In all, the Plymouth Ice Center, under the jurisdiction of the Park and Recreation Department,
is positively oriented toward responding to the recreational needs of all residents throughout
the year, each and every day. Thus, the City has made a commitment to the general residents
to provide a quality facility, available to all, for a variety of recreational uses. All staff will be
dedicated and committed to serve these public needs.
1996 -23-
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
The Volunteer Program continued to grow during 1996. The program offers:
A valuable aid to staff members.
An informal network of goodwill ambassadors throughout the community.
An excellent opportunity for citizens to gain job skills, socialize and learn about local
government.
Special Event Volunteers
Volunteers continued to be a big part of several special events, with their presence
contributing to the success of these events. All of the special events utilized volunteers who
were a variety of ages, and allowed young and old to work side by side. They were also
opportunities for PAYS (Plymouth Alternative Youth Sentencing program) youth to serve.
A total of 18 volunteers, 14 adults and 4 PAYS youth, worked at the spring special
recycling day, and 16 volunteers helped with the fall special recycling day—
Engineering.
The History Fest used 14 volunteers during the one day celebration in August—Parks
and Recreation.
The Autumn Art Fair had 14 volunteers greet attendees, work at the information booth,
and help with children's crafts booth—Parks and Recreation.
The Greening of Plymouth's Entryways III" utilized 120 volunteers in the fall when
shrubs and trees were planted at both the northwest and southwest quadrants of Carlson
Parkway and Interstate 494. This was a joint project that involved: MN Department of
Transportation; the City forester; Country Inn and Suites, which donated the door
prize; Country Kitchen, which donated a pancake breakfast; and Italianni's, which
donated a lasagna lunch. The volunteers were from the community, a church youth
group, a Boy Scout troop, Wayzata Senior High, Armstrong Senior High, Prudential
Corporation, Carlson Companies, and Honeywell—Parks and Recreation.
Old Fashioned Christmas had 15 volunteers join in the holiday festivities. They
included community volunteers, high school youth, and a Girl Scout troop—Parks and
Recreation.
Over 100 volunteers were lined up for Fire and Ice, but it was canceled due to the cold
weather.
1996 -24-
Ongoing Volunteers:
Many volunteers stayed in the positions they held in 1995.
Volunteers continued in the following positions: data analysis of crime statistics,
McGruff House Coordinator, and emergency management coordinators - Public Safety
A volunteer continued in her multi -faceted role putting together new resident packets
and working with election materials - Administration
One of the event planners continued in that role for not only volunteer services, but
also assisted Public Safety as an event planner - Parks and Recreation and Public
Safety
Two firearm safety instructors continued and a new volunteer started in that role -
Parks and Recreation
Some of preschool aides continued and several new volunteers started - Parks and
Recreation
Many of the junior lifeguards, water safety aides, and summer teen aides volunteered
again last summer - Parks and Recreation
The Arts Committee members continued to function - Parks and Recreation
All of the following volunteers continued to volunteer for the senior coordinator: the
job exchange coordinator, the clerical aide, and the editor of the senior newsletter -
Parks and Recreation
Two engineering volunteers continued to assist the engineering aides - Engineering
New Volunteer Positions:
Some of the new volunteer positions created during 1996 included:
Data input—Public Safety
Clerical aide—Finance
Special mailings team for sump pump inspections—Finance
Data input for inspections—Community Development
Data review for inspections—Community Development
Housing intern—Community Development
Tennis instructor for tennis clinics for seniors—Parks and Recreation
Committee member working on at -risk teen project—Parks and Recreation
Window designers—Parks and Recreation
Newsletter editor—Parks and Recreation
Volunteer Recognition: tion:
The volunteer recognition event was held the evening of October 15 at the Carlson Towers
Rotunda with 200 people in attendance. Volunteers enjoyed camaraderie, appetizers, and door
prizes. Diana Pierce, the news anchor from KARE 11 television station, was the guest
speaker.
1996 -25-
During Volunteer Appreciation Week in April, supervisors of volunteers were invited to give
ongoing and time limited volunteers a mug or a tote bag, both of which had the new volunteer
logo imprinted on them. The latest edition of the "Volunteers in Plymouth" newsletter was
also mailed to volunteers during Volunteer Appreciation Week. A continental breakfast was
held for staff who supervised volunteers to show thanks for their role in working with
volunteers.
Other Highlights:
An article about the Plymouth volunteer program was published in the November issue
of Minnesota Cities, a publication of the League of Minnesota Cities.
A five minute cable show which featured an engineering volunteer and the volunteer
coordinator was broadcast in November on "NW Cities," a cable television show
produced by Northwest Community TV.
1996 -26-
PARK MAINTENANCE DIVISION
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11 PARK MAINI'E STANCE PEOPLE (1) LEAD PERSON
1) POSITION ADDED IN 1996
Acreaees
1. Maintained....................................341
2. Un-Maintained...............................586
3. Open Space Acquired ......................067
4. Total...........................................994
Un -
Maintained
Natural
59%
Park Breakdown
PARK ACREAGE
Open Space
Acquired
7%
20 SEASONAL POSITIONS
Aaintained
34%
Plymouth has three types of parks: City parks, community playfields and neighborhood parks.
City parks have an extensive trail system, children's playground, nature areas, and special
features such as a beach or pavilions. Playfields have softball/baseball fields, soccer, hockey
rinks, tennis courts, walking paths, and shelter buildings. Neighborhood parks generally have
a children's playground, benches, open areas and small picnic shelters.
1996 -27-
Plymouth's trail system consists of asphalt paths separate from the roadway, striped lanes
along the roadways, or specially marked trails which share a roadway.
1. (1) Community Parks - Parkers Lake
2. (8) Playfields
3. (20) Neighborhood Parks
4. (75) Trail Miles
Types of Duties
Building Maintenance
Mowing
Trimming
Refuse Service
Rink Maintenance
Horticulture Upkeep
Aerate
Top Dress
Overseed
Beach Maintenance
Irrigation Systems
Machinery & Equipment - 85 Pieces
Acres Under Irrigation, 140 - 2,000 Heads Within The System
Park Facility Breakdown
1. (10) Buildings
2. (20) Softball Fields
3. (6) Baseball Fields
4. (4) Football/Soccer Fields
5. (15) Soccer Fields
6. (11) Hockey Rinks
7. (22) General Rinks
8. (30) Play structures
9. (2) Swimming Beaches
10. (11) Picnic Shelters
1996 Park Projects
Park Construction
New amphitheater site
Log cabin site
Athletic fields (West Lutheran High School)
Air conditioned Bass Lake building
Prairie sites (amphitheater and the maintenance facility)
Wood sculptures
1996 -28-
Trail Inspection
Trail Plowing
Evening Field Setup
Safety Inspection
Line Painting
ADA/CPSC Improvements
Timber Shores floating walkway being rebuilt.
New playground Maple Creek.
New Trail Construction
Maple Creek, around new play area.
Greenwood School, around new play area and basketball court.
Amphitheater, trails surround site.
Trail Overlav Pro¢ram
Medina Road ....................................................... Niagara to Vicksburg
Maple Creek ........................................................ Park entrance to sculpture
Pilgrim............................................................... 37th Place to woods entrance.
Northwest Boulevard .............................................. 38`h to County Rd. 9.
Lancaster Lane ..................................................... County Rd. 9 to Four Seasons Mall
entrance
Niagara Lane.......................................................18`h Ave. to County Rd. 6
1996 Tree Trust Projects
Timber Shores Walkway
Institutional Work Crew
Ridgemount......................................................... Rebuilt hockey rinks
Amphitheater....................................................... Tree work
Heritage Park ....................................................... Buckthorn removal
Turtle Lake Park ................................................... Buckthorn removal
Cardinal Ridge ..................................................... Tree work
Open Space......................................................... Building removal
West High School ................................................. Sodding
Ballfields
Backstop at West Lutheran High School
Safety fencing at Plymouth Creek and LaCompte
Winter Maintenance
Added two miles of trail plowing
Capital Improvement Projects
Maple Creek New Play Area
Timber Shores Walkway
Ridgemount Hockey Rinks
Community Gardens
60 rental sites
1996 -29-
Volunteer Activities
Flower Planting
Amphitheater Work
Eagle Scout Projects
Special Events
Fire And Ice
Music In Plymouth
Old Fashioned Christmas
Art Fair
History Fest
City Softball Tournament
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FORESTRYPLYMOUTHPROGRAMp
Dutch Elm Disease, Oak Wilt, & Hazard Trees
This year, we once again had two Minnesota certified tree inspectors marking trees for
removal in this category. Of the total 1128 trees marked, 73 % were for DED. The
average diameter of these diseased elms was 7.2" . We marked 25 % less trees this year,
which we would like to attribute to the past years of diligent marking.
It appears that trees infected with Oak Wilt may have subsided this past year after a
record number last year. We marked 24 oaks with an average diameter of 9.3",
compared to the 88 trees that were marked last year. We re -inspected the three disease
centers that were detected in 1995 and found a significant decrease in numbers due to
in part to timely removal of the disease material by the surrounding landowners. We
will continue to monitor these areas of concern and continue to work closely with the
surrounding residents. With the City's funding of the sample charge for Oak Wilt
testing, an increased public awareness, and an intensive field inspection program, the
City should be able to effectively manage Oak wilt incidences.
Marking of hazardous trees increased by 11 % as we did inspect more private resident
complaints along with a few storms that produced damaged trees that had to be
removed. The average diameter of these trees was 12.7. Parks & trails are continually
inspected for dead or structurally weak trees, as are boulevards and right of ways.
Removal of potentially hazardous tree situations decreases the potential liability to the
public.
Tree Removals
DED Oak Wilt Hazard Subtotals
Forester 13 94 107
Forestry Tech 404 2 158 564
Tree Inspector 409 22 26 457
TOTAL 826 24 278 1128
PERCENTAGE 73% 2%-- 25 % t007v
AVG. DIAMETER 5.9 9.3 12.4
Tree ownership
city
Private 11111111W 47%
53%
1996 -30-
Forced Removals
of trees ( < 6") removed
of trees (> 6") removed
Total # of forced removals
of properties w/ removals
20
17
37 (Avg. diameter = 7.9")
11
There was a 45% decrease in the number of force cuts, from 20 to 11, and the total
number of trees removed decreased by 23 %, from 48 to 37. A stricter adherence to
State guidelines and an objective procedure for inspection of hazardous trees may have
caused a few irritations, but resulted in more uniform compliance of removals and less
trees being removed by the City contractor. The additional step of calling prior to
forcing the removals did result in less confrontations and generally made this sticky
situation a little more positive.
Stump Grinding
of stumps 122
Total inches 4595
Avg. stump size 37.7"
Trimmine
Our contractors trimmed 1,109 trees, an increase of 36% over last year while removing
643 trees, an increase of 38% over last year. This correlates to approximately one
section of the City being covered.
Street Tree Trimming Highlights
Trimmed trees 1,109
Removed trees 643
Total maintained trees 1,752
Avg. # of trees maintained/day (8 hours) 35
Cost per inch to maintain $1.88/in.
With the addition of new streets, it will be necessary to increase our street tree
trimming budget to come close to the desired 5-7 year pruning cycle throughout the
whole City. If we don't keep close to that cycle, liability and plowing problems may
increase.
This year our seasonal crews, combined with volunteers from Options North, InVest,
Sentence to Serve, re -mulched, trimmed, wrapped, and checked tree guards for the
majority of park trees. These trees are in maintained areas of parks which get the most
contact from citizens and our mowing crews.
1996 -31-
Reforestation
Between contractors and volunteers, the City assisted in planting 1,229 trees, 1,493
shrubs, and 1,260 flowers throughout the City. The largest plantings were
accomplished in the partnership/volunteer category, which speaks volumes for the
public's commitment to enhancing their environment through personal involvement and
positive action.
The Arbor Day ceremony was truly a celebration this year. The Forestry Division,
School District #284, & Tree Trust sponsored an educational planting which focused
on wildlife enhancement. The children improved their local environment with their own
hands. A strong sense of community pride was experienced that day.
The "Greening Plymouth's Entryways 3" is the ongoing partnership created between
the City of Plymouth & MnDOT. This year's corporate sponsorship included Country
Kitchen, Italianni's and Country Inn Suites and was quite a feast! This project brought
together volunteers, ranging from corporate leaders, high school students, elected
officials and Plymouth residents, all working together to better their environment. A
diverse plant community was established in an area which lacked visual appeal, was
constantly being mowed and devoid of many wildlife benefits.
The "Beat the Heat" grant program focused on planting trees for energy conservation.
The enthusiastic homeowner associations (Bridlewood, Seven Ponds & Heritage Woods
2id) and their residents created windbreaks and strategic plantings to reduce energy
costs in their neighborhoods and private residences.
Contracted (spring) Trees Shrubs Perennials/Flowers
Bass Lake Playfield 26 30
36`s & Vicksburg Ln. (median) 7
Parkers Lake Playfield 22
Queensland Park 2
Zachary Playfield 14
Assorted parks 28
Assorted addresses 4
Contracted (fall)
Co. Rd. 9 260
Assorted address 5 19
Prairies
Amphitheater 3 acre
St. Mary's Park /a acre
Public Works 1 acre
Partnerships/Volunteers
1996 -32-
Arbor Day @ Greenwood Elem.
Beat the Heat" - MN ReLEAF grant
Wild rice @ Wayzata H.S.-CPGP grant
Greening Plymouth's Entryways 3
Fire Station #2 - Tree Trust
Fire Station #3 - STS
Memorial garden -Parkers Lk. Plyfld.
Amphitheater -Boy Scouts & Deloitte Touche
TOTALS
Tree Preservation
25 40 1000
751
2 acre
37 1100
66 38
61
18 161
48 220
1,229 1,493 1,260
With another banner year for development, tree preservation inspections were constant
and heavy. The Forestry Dept. is constantly looking for ways to educate builders and
homeowners about this important issue so as to further preserve this valuable
environmental resource. The administration of the old policy demanded a great deal of
staff time and effort while attaining sometimes less than desirable results. The new
ordinance has resulted in less staff time and effort while resulting in more trees being
saved and more consistent application of standards.
Tree Preservation Inspections
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Pine Bark Beetle Traps
0 Development
Building
A neighborhood group near Queensland Park contacted us last fall & requested help
with their Red pine stands. The stand was evaluated by Forestry staff, thinning was
completed by homeowners in the winter, and the neighborhood group borrowed City
traps and trapped this spring. The following results were found:
1996 -33-
Pine Bark Beetle Trapping @ Queensland
We expect to work closely with this group again in 1997 to further combat the Pine
Bark beetle problem and insure the health of the remaining red pine stand.
Miscellaneous Items
Fertilizing/Aerating
Unfortunately this year's early snow impeded our fertilizing program. The
following location will be looked at next year:
1. Amphitheater
Proper maintenance helps insure that our initial investment will come to fruition in
a viable and healthy urban forest.
Site Obstructions
Approximately 7 site obstruction complaints were received, processed and abated.
Burn Permits
36 burn sites were inspected, resulting in 34 permits being issued. The City has
begun looking at salvaging some of the wood that is currently being burned in our
diseased tree burn site. This would be a logical, as well as a more environmentally
sensitive, approach to the wood waste disposal.
1996 -34-