AGENDA PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION

Transcription

1 AGENDA PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, APRIL 6, 2015 PRNR COMMISSION MEMBERS: CITY STAFF: STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES: RECORDING SECRETARY: 7:00 P.M. CITY CENTER 8080 Mitchell Road, Council Chambers Larry Link, Chair; Debra McBride, Vice Chair; Michael Belaen, Donald Jacobson, Leonard Pesheck, Tim Rawerts, Kirk Spresser, Deborah Tenner Jay Lotthammer, Parks & Recreation Director Stu Fox, Parks and Natural Resources Manager Lori Brink, Recreation Manager Jacqui Armstrong, Pratik Baandal, Jennifer Powell, Riley Tillitt Amy Hulet I. ROLL CALL/INTRODUCTIONS II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA III. APPROVAL OF PRNR MINUTES JANUARY 5, MINUTES and MARCH 2, 2015 IV. REPORT OF CITY COUNCIL ACTION V. REPORT OF PLANNING COMMISSION VI. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATION A. VII. OLD BUSINESS A. Cedar Hills Park Update VIII. NEW BUSINESS A.

2 IX. REPORTS OF STAFF A. Recreation Services Manager 1. Winter Events 2. Software Update FYI: Animal Open House FYI: Art Center Open House FYI: Mother/Son All-Star Evening B. Parks and Natural Resources Manager 1. Park Division Overview FYI: Park Clean-Up Day FYI: Arbor Day Walk & Green Fair C. Parks and Recreation Director 1. Mayor s Health & Wellness Committee and Fitness in the Parks 2. Mobile Concessions PRNR Work Plan FYI: Step To It Eden Prairie FYI: Eden Prairie LRT Station Areas Design X. NEXT MEETING Next PRNR Meeting Monday, May 4 at 7 p.m., Outdoor Center. Joint meeting with Heritage Preservation Commission. FYI. Board and Commissions Banquet, May 13 at 6 p.m. in the Garden Room XI. ADJOURNMENT PRNR COMMISSION PURPOSE STATEMENT Act in an advisory capacity to the City on matters of leisure services, recreation programming, and development and use of parks and recreation facilities supported by the general public. Enlist the support of organizations and individuals in providing City parks and recreation facilities and activities. Provide input to staff in the promotion of awareness and use of recreation facilities and activities by community organizations and individuals. Provide input to staff on park plans including the site development and facility modifications and/or improvement program. Provide input to staff on park and recreation facility use. Provide input to staff on leisure programs and activities.

3 UNAPPROVED MINUTES PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, JANUARY 5, :00 P.M. CITY CENTER 8080 Mitchell Road PRNR COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Hutch Coburn, Chair; Larry Link, Vice Chair; Donald Jacobson; Kirk Spresser; Tim Rawerts; Leonard Pesheck; and Deborah Tenner PRNR COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: CITY STAFF PRESENT: STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES: RECORDING SECRETARY: Debra McBride and Michael Belaen Jay Lotthammer, Parks & Recreation Director; Stu Fox, Parks and Natural Resources Manager; Wendy Sevenich, Community Center Manager; Lori Brink, Recreation Manager; Tina Eide, Aquatic Supervisor Jacqueline Armstrong, Jennifer Powell, Riley Tillitt Amy Hulet, not present I. ROLL CALL AND INTRODUCTIONS Roll call was taken by Chair Coburn as Recording Secretary Amy Hulet was unable to attend. Attendance was noted above. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Motion: Spresser moved, seconded by Jacobson, to approve the agenda as presented. III. APPROVAL OF PRNR MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 3, 2014 Motion: Jacobson moved, seconded by Rawerts to approve the November 3, 2014 meeting minutes as presented. IV. REPORT OF CITY COUNCIL ACTION Lotthammer addressed the Commission and noted City Council had met only once in December. At that meeting, the City Council adopted the City Budget. He noted the Commission would discuss the item later on in the meeting. The City Council would be meeting the next night to discuss Commission appointments.

4 PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES January 5, 2015 Page 2 V. REPORT OF PLANNING COMMISSION Fox noted there had only been one Planning Commission meeting since the last PRNR meeting. At the meeting, they discussed the construction of O Reilly Parts and the TOD Ordinance (Transit Orient Design). VI. VII. VIII. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATION OLD BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS A. Cedar Hills Park Design Concept Plan Lotthammer introduced Jan Anderson of HTPO, the firm contracted by the City to design Cedar Hills Park. Lotthammer provided a brief history regarding the development of Cedar Hills Park and the City s agreement with MAC. He reported to the Commission this park would be the last major neighborhood park to be constructed in the foreseeable future. The next step in the project would be to hold a neighborhood meeting to obtain feedback from nearby residents. The City would like to begin construction of Phase I later this year. Jan Anderson provided a brief history of the land encompassing the park. She reported on the original family that settled on the property in the 1860 s. She also compared the 2002 original concept plan with the revised 2015 master plan. She noted the changes in the amount of green space, trail connections, parking and amenities. In addition, she reported the park was unique in that encompassed a creek, wetlands and steep slopes. The proposed design concept includes a native American/pioneer theme that embraces the surrounding natural amenities. The Commission inquired about sports amenities versus nature amenities. Lotthammer responded the park would be oriented more towards large open, natural spaces as opposed to ball fields and courts. The Commission members liked the natural aspect of the park along with ties to the history of the land. In addition, they requested confirmation that MAC had agreed to a long term use agreement with the City. Tenner asked about bathrooms in any of the buildings in Phase I. Fox responded there were no plans in Phase I for bathrooms. Lotthammer reported it might be possible in Phase II. He noted the final design of the park would include more specific details. IX. REPORTS OF STAFF A. RECREATION SERVICES MANAGER FYI: Rock on Ice FYI: Miller Park Activities FYI: Stay Active this Winter FYI: Father-Daughter Sweetheart Dance

5 PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES January 5, 2015 Page 3 Brink summarized the upcoming events, Rock On Ice, Miller Park Activities (Ice Castle) and Stay Active this Winter. She also noted the very popular Father/Daughter dance. B. COMMUNITY CENTER MANAGER 1. Facilities Rentals Lotthammer introduced Tina Eide, Aquatics Supervisor. Eide provided the Commission with information regarding facilities rentals and changes made in Reservations opened up at 5:30 earlier this morning, with Purgatory Creek as one of its hot spots. The facility is popular for graduations and weddings. She provided the Commission with reservation history and numbers, in order to track how each facility is used and if it is being utilized to the best of its ability. She also discussed the updated cancellation policy. Community Center and Senior Center rentals were also discussed. C. PARKS AND NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGER FYI: Deer Management Fox reported the deer management program went well. The City removed 120 animals. The next deer management program would resume in fall D. PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR 1. Budget Update General Fund & CIP Lotthammer provided a brief update with regard to the CIP. This year staff will work with the CIP and update their project lists. 2. Hennepin County Grant Updates Lotthammer reported the City had obtained a grant for youth sports. The grant would be awarded to Camp Edenwood and would go towards updating the outside play equipment. C.H. Robinson has agreed to match up to $40,000 and they are looking into additional matching amounts. In addition, the City also obtained grants for soccer goals/nets and equipment for the dryland training room at the new aquatic center. Each grant was $6,

6 PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES January 5, 2015 Page PRNR Work Plan Lotthammer noted on January 20, Hutch Coburn and himself would be presenting the Commission s work plan to the City Council. He reported on two other subjects, the effects of pesticides on the bee population and organic recycling as topics for the Commission to discuss in the future. X. NEXT MEETING Next PRNR Meeting Monday, February 2, :00 p.m., Community Center XI. ADJOURNMENT Motion: Spresser moved, seconded by Link to adjourn the January PRNR meeting at 8:31 p.m.

7 UNAPPROVED MINUTES PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 2, :00 P.M. COMMUNITY CENTER 8080 MITCHELL ROAD, COUNCIL CHAMBERS PRNR COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Larry Link, Vice Chair; Donald Jacobson; Kirk Spresser; Debra McBride; Leonard Pesheck; and Deborah Tenner, Tim Rawerts and Michael Belaen PRNR COMMISSION MEMBERS ABSENT: CITY STAFF PRESENT: STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES: RECORDING SECRETARY: Hutch Coburn, Chair Jay Lotthammer, Parks & Recreation Director; Stu Fox, Parks and Natural Resources Manager; Lori Brink, Recreation Manager Jacqueline Armstrong, Jennifer Powell, Pratik Baandal and Riley Tillitt Amy Hulet I. ROLL CALL AND INTRODUCTIONS Roll call was taken and noted above. II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Motion: McBride moved, seconded by Jacobson, to approve the agenda as presented. III. APPROVAL OF PRNR MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 2, Lotthammer stated the January 5, 2015 meeting meetings minutes would be approved at the next meeting. A final attempt to transfer the audio recording was made. Spresser stated he has been waiting patiently for the minutes. Motion: Tenner moved, seconded by Spresser to approve the February meeting minutes as presented. IV. REPORT OF CITY COUNCIL ACTION Lotthammer addressed the Commission and noted it has been quiet with regard to City Council actions. He reported a donation from a local dentist, EP Smiles. He also noted an upcoming LRT workshop meeting.

8 PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES March 2, 2015 Page 2 V. REPORT OF PLANNING COMMISSION Fox reported there had been two Planning Commission meetings since the last PRNR meeting. On February 9, the Planning Commission discussed the walking areas around the LRT stations and possible design/building materials. On February 23, the Planning Commission approved a new development along the Wagner property. The Commission approved a 6½ acre, 12 lot subdivision. Construction will begin this summer. In addition, the Planning Commission discussed a code amendment allowing fences up to six feet be constructed without a variance or building permit. The current state building code has been changed to permit seven feet fences without a building permit. Fox noted this amendment was for homes within the City, parks are exempt. Link inquired if there were any PRNR members on the LRT Commission. Lotthammer responded the prior LRT advisory committee had ended and there was an Art Advisory Committee to discuss art in and around the LRT stations in EP only. VI. VII. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATION OLD BUSINESS A. CEDAR HILLS PARK UPDATE Fox reported he thought he would have more concrete plans to bring forth this month. The City underwent discussions regarding clarification of incidental wetlands. In addition, the City decision includes a Native American/Pioneer theme to the playground at Cedar Hills Park. However, after researching this with the Mdewakanton Sioux, the group felt it was too stereotypical and determined to forego any Native American representation within the park. The City will move forward with a pioneer theme. Student representatives Powell, Armstrong and Baandal all agreed it was a sensitive subject and were glad they asked for the group s opinions. VIII. IX. NEW BUSINESS REPORTS OF STAFF A. RECREATION SERVICES MANAGER 1. New Registration Software Brink addressed the Commission and presented an update regarding the new registration software. She noted the registration software would go live on March 17 at 7 a.m. The process to get the system up and running has been extensive but staff is excited for the changes. She provided the Commission with a brief overview of some of the changes in the new system. The software will be much more user friendly.

9 PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES March 2, 2015 Page 3 They tested the software by opening registration for garden plots only. Since the test audience was quite small, staff felt it would be a good indicator of the results. Some minor tweaks would need to be made, but overall the registration was a success. Brink encouraged residents starting next week to go in and set up an account prior to the launch. The splash page would be up later this week. Lotthammer reported this entire process has been a huge undertaking. Staff has had to make some difficult choices; however, they are confident that this program is the best option for the City. He noted staff has done a great job. FYI: Eden Prairie Annual Ice Show The Wicked Wizard of Oz! FYI: Spring /Summer Parks and Recreation Brochure Lotthammer discussed the City s staffing software to the Commission. He also noted the annual ice show would be March Spring brochures were at the printer and would be mailed out at the end of the week. B. PARKS AND NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGER 1. Community Gardens Update Fox discussed the community gardens at Pioneer Trail as well as the City s new agreement with the Assembly of God Church. The agreement includes 36 garden plots located west of their parking lot. The church will not charge for the use of the land and the City has agreed to provide for plowing and water tanks. C. PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR 1. P&R Department Work Plan Lotthammer provided a brief update with regard to the Department and City Work plans. The work plan is driven by the City Council goals. All departments have a similar format and all follow the overall goals of the City. He noted the Council s number one goal was: Community wellbeing and safety. Under the goal, the City has outlined objectives, strategies, how to measure and partnerships in order to obtain the goal. Lotthammer noted the Commission would go through discussions in greater detail next month. 2. Community Center Staffing Lotthammer provided the Commission with the Community Center annual report. The Community Center was broken down into three departments: Ice Arena, Aquatics and Fitness. The departments all have a recreation supervisor. The supervisors had reported to the Community Center Manager; however, Wendy Sevenich has since moved on and the City has decided not to fill the position at this time. The

10 PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES March 2, 2015 Page 4 supervisors would be reporting to Lotthammer for all activities relating to the Community Center and to Brink for all athletics. He noted the City had gone through a grueling interview process to hire a new athletic supervisor. She will be introduced at a future meeting PRNR Work Plan Lotthammer noted Chair Coburn had reached his maximum appointment for the PRNR. His last meeting was to be tonight, but unfortunately he was unable to attend. Speaking on behalf of staff and Commission members, we would like to thank Hutch for his years of service. He will be recognized at the May 6 th banquet in the Garden Room. Lotthammer reported the City Council has determined it will not fill his seat and the PRNR will remain at 8 members. Rawerts inquired if Link would be the next Chair since he was Vice-Chair. Lotthammer responded the City Council decides on who will be assigned Chair and Vice-Chair. X. NEXT MEETING Next PRNR Meeting Monday, April 6, :00 p.m., Council Chambers XI. ADJOURNMENT Motion: Rawerts moved, seconded by McBride, to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:10 p.m.

11 Interact with all kinds of animals including rabbits, a chameleon, chinchillas and more! Saturday, April p.m. Outdoor Center edenprairie.org/outdoorcenter

12 ART CENTER OPEN HOUSE Sunday, April p.m. Art Center 7650 Equitable Drive Join us to learn about all the great classes and programs at the Art Center. Enjoy teacher demonstrations, hands-on projects for children and face painting. edenprairie.org/artcenter

13 Ages 3 9 with adult Put on your dancing shoes and favorite sports attire! This All-Star Evening includes dancing, playing the popular tunes, mom vs. son sport team activities and light refreshments. Athletic shoes preferred; no black soles please. Remember to bring your camera! Saturday, May p.m. Community Center Gym Valley View Road $9/person Registration code: edenprairie.org/register

14 This is your chance to help! Grab your work gloves, bring your trash bags and help keep Eden Prairie s parks and trails clean. Saturday, April 18 Great opportunity for service organizations, youth organizations and neighborhood groups! 8:30 11 a.m. Please call by April 7 for park assignments.

15 Celebrate Arbor Day with a walk around Round Lake and check out a variety of green-themed vendors and activities. Saturday, May 2 9 a.m. noon Round Lake Park Free Seedlings Concessions Kids Activities Tree Health Information edenprairie.org/calendar

16 Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission 2015 Important Dates / Work Plan Day, Date Time Location Group Focus Monday, Jan 5 7 pm Council Chambers PRNR Meeting Budget Update, Cedar Hills Park Concept Design Plan, Facility Rentals Monday, Feb 2 7 pm Community Ctr PRNR Meeting Monday, Mar 2 7 pm Council Chambers PRNR Meeting Monday, Apr 6 7 pm Council Chambers PRNR Meeting Monday, May 4 7 pm Outdoor Center PRNR & Heritage Preservation Meeting SWLRT Station Area Planning, Work Plans, Aquatic Expansion Walkthrough, 2015 Park Projects New Registration Software, Dept Work Plan, EPCC Staffing, Cedar Hills Latest Design Winter Events Update, Park Division Overview, Cedar Hills Park Update, Software Update, Mobile Concessions, Mayor s Health & Wellness Committee Update and Fitness in the Parks Outdoor Center Update, Carp Study Update, Interpretive Signage Buffing Project, Pheasant Woods Playground Renovation, Outdoor Center Update, Staring Lake Carp Study, Riley Lake Park Update May 6 pm Garden Room Banquet Commission Members & Students Invited Monday, June 1 7 pm Council Chambers PRNR Meeting Mayor s Health & Wellness Update June Community Ctr Grand Opening Aquatics Upgrade Grand Opening Monday, July 6 6:30 pm City Center PRNR Bus Tour Monday, Aug 3 7 pm Council Chambers PRNR Meeting Monday, Sept 14 7 pm Park Maint. Bldg PRNR Meeting Monday, Oct 5 7 pm Council Chambers PRNR Meeting Monday, Nov 2 7 pm Council Chambers PRNR Meeting Monday, Dec 7 7 pm Council Chambers PRNR Meeting Updated 3/31/2015

17 Take the Step To It Challenge and compete with 23 other metro cities to see which city is the most active! s t a e r rn mo. g r o. teptoit Lea Here s how it works L og your physical activity in your online Step To It account from May A ll steps will be counted in Eden Prairie s step totals in the competition for the Most Active Community award. T he top stepper in Eden Prairie wins a pair of Minnesota Twins tickets and is recognized on field at a home game.

18 Eden Prairie LRT Station Areas Design Concept Review & Discussion Please join the HKGI design team on behalf of the City of Eden Prairie to view and discuss initial concepts for Eden Prairie s five LRT station areas. This is an opportunity to think beyond the station platform and consider ideas for design character and improvements in the area near each future LRT station. This is also a time to share your valuable input as the station area design process moves forward. We hope you will join us! When Wednesday, April 15, :30 am to 9:00 am Where Eden Prairie City Center 8080 Mitchell Road, Eden Prairie MN, Lower Level- Heritage Rooms I & II