Loading...
2010-05-18MWAM COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION AGENDA Tuesday, May 18, 2010 7:00 pm Richfield Community Center (7000 Nicollet Ave) Commission Members Staff Liaisons Reed Bornholdt Gerry Charnitz (Chair) Greg Mangold Arlan Nelson Bob Shotwell Joe Sevin Jim To itzhofer (Staff Liaison) John Fred Wro e Council i ( l er vans (Secretary) Rick Jabs, Com) f Dan Edgerton Rodney Schmidt Sarah TiII�C) J Michele T ompson 1. Call to Order 2. Approval of Minutes ❑ Regular Meeting: April 20, 2010 3. Public Comment ❑ Items not printed on the agenda 4. Staff Reports ❑ Lincoln Athletic Complex 5. Discussion Items ❑ Parks Ordinance Revision (Topitzhofer) 6. Action Items ❑ Skatepark Location (Topitzhofer) Committee Reports ❑ Transportation Commission (Shotwell/Charnitz) ❑ Bike Planning Group (Edgerton/Shotwell) ❑ Veterans Park Planning Group (Charnitz/Schmidt) ❑ Community Bandshell (Bornholdt/Jabs) ❑ FOWL (Bornholdt) ❑ Honoring All Veterans Memorial, Inc (Bornholdt/Schmidt) ❑ Planning Commission (Springer) ❑ Arts Commission (Thompson) 8. Next Meeting Special Joint Meeting with Planning Commission Monday, June 14, 2010 7:00 pm Community Center (7000 Nicollet Ave) 9. Adjournment J DRAFT MINUTES UNTIL APPROVED BY THE CSC. April 20, 2010 RICHFIELD COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING Tuesday, April 20, 2010, Community Center 7000 Nicollet Ave) PRESENT CSC Members Bob Shotwell, Dan Edgerton, Michele Thompson, Greg Mangold, Sarah Till, Gerry Charnitz, Reed Bomholdt, Joe Springer, Arlan Nelson, Rodney Schmidt Planning Commission Rick Jabs Staff Jim Topitzhofer, John Evans, Chris Link Others Robin Weisman (MN Dept of Health), Derek Larsen (Tobacco -Free Youth Recreation), Robin Wagner Council Liaison I Fred Wroge I Callao Order I Charnitz called the meeting to order at 7:04 pm. Approval of Minutes I Evans added a missing action to an item in the minutes and changed the date listed on the minutes. Nelson moved, seconded by Springer, to approve the minutes of the regular March meeting, as revised. Approved, ayes all. I Action Items I Parks Ordinance Revision Topitzhofer reviewed the suggested revisions to the parks -related sections of the City Code. Schmidt suggested an exception be written to the section about bodies of water to allow non -motorized boats or ice houses. Nelson recommended against allowing ice houses; the aerator would make the ice very thin near it. Streets Maintenance Supervisor Link said that the aerator may be turned off in the winter. Schmidt said that day houses would only be allowed; no overnight houses. Topitzhofer said that he'd investigate the aerator and how it would affect the ice. Topitzhofer asked about the sound system ordinance. Nelson said that a noise ordinance already addresses it. Schmidt said that you'd have to issue an exception or permit for certain performances. Jabs said that the existing noise ordinance should address it. Topitzhofer asked about the item prohibiting damage of vegetation. Schmidt asked about unwanted plants; Charnitz and Jabs said that the City would have to authorize personnel to remove any vegetation. Schmidt said that the "authorized personnel only" language would have to be added to the item about feeding wildlife, too, because of Wood Lake Nature Center. Topitzhofer introduced representatives from the MN Dept of Health and Tobacco -Free Youth Recreation to talk about passing a tobacco -free ordinance. Larsen talked about several cities that have passed, or are considering, an ordinance. Wagner talked about SHIP grants available to help a city with training, signage, and other resources necessary to implement a tobacco ordinance. Topitzhofer said that Recreation Services staff could give out smoking tickets. Thompson asked how that could be authorized; Nelson asked if a non -police officer can issue certain citations. Topitzhofer said that there are two ways to collect fees: the misdemeanor ticket system, where the ticket goes to Hennepin County courts; the other is the administrative fee methods, where you have your own collection system and arrange your own hearing system. Part of the ticket revenue would pay for this system. He said that the Council would have to decide which system to use. He said that staff would require some training for staff who will be authorized to issue tickets. Link said that the Streets Maintenance crews can issue tickets during snow emergency. Topitzhofer said that it would have to be determined how to enforce the ordinance during the 41h of July, when thousands of people may be in the park and not know about the ordinance. Schmidt said that no exceptions should be shown for a particular event. Jabs said that thorough signage may be an earnest attempt to get the word out. Charnitz said that you may not have people throughout the park, writing tickets. Shotwell said that he disagrees with laws that prohibit and regulate smoking so strictly. He said that people are exposed to smoke and toxins every day and smokers are being penalized. Schmidt disagreed with posting any signs in Spanish because there are many languages, but our main language is English. Topitzhofer and Chamitz said that the ordinance doesn't necessarily mandate bilingual signs, but maybe other materials would be bilingual. Jabs said that pictures on the signs should be pretty universal. Nelson said that, by this language, a person could smoke in their car in a park parking lot, which makes it a meaningless law. Charnitz asked if Topitzhofer seeks a motion. Topitzhofer said that he does seek a motion; he will add the language about "authorized personnel only" to the animal -feeding language and the language about exempting non -motorized boats and possibly ice houses. Schimdt asked if the fines would apply to all of the items; Topitzhofer said that it would. He said that he'll check on the aerator at Taft and bring it back to the group for action. Discussion Items I Emerald Ash Borer Plan Link reviewed the plan to educate the public about Public Works' plan to treat and save as many trees as possible. He suggested the different media outlets that the group would use to get the word out and asked for suggestions. He said that there is no outbreak in the City as of now, but the plan may change if there's an outbreak. He also commented on about 17 oak trees having to be removed in Augsburg Park due to a borer bug. He said that they will inject every oak tree in Augsburg in an effort to save them. _staff Resorts I Parks Capital Improvement Plan Topitzhofer told the group that he brought the capital improvement plan, as revised by the CSC in March, to the Council and they concurred with the plan (keep the skate park in the plan, move the bandshell item to 2013 and pay down the Lincoln loan this year with those funds). He said that determining a site for the skate park will be the next objective. Lincoln Athletic Complex Update Topitzhofer told the group that the Lincoln Field Complex renovation is nearly complete, with some irrigation work being finished up this spring. April 20, 2010 Other Charnitz asked the group about the possibility of an adjunct market to the main farmers market; one that would involve small, locally -owned restaurants and vendors who would serve small portions of some of their foods or flowers (sometimes called a chef s market). He said that it would be a one-time event and he asked if the CSC members thought that would be an idea worth pursuing. Topitzhofer asked if that might be a good event to combine with Cattail Days. Edgerton said that he'd be interested in helping. Charnitz said that he may begin by talking with local businesses to gauge their interests. Committee Reports Transportation Commission: Shotwell provided the report. Bike Planning Group: Shotwell and Edgerton provided the report Veterans Park Planning Group: Charnitz provided the report. FOWL: Bornholdt provided the report. Honoring All Veterans Memorial., Bornholdt provided the report. Planning Commission: Springer and Jabs provided the report. Arts Commission: Thompson provided the report. j Adjournment Springer moved, seconded by Shotwell, to adjourn the meeting. Meeting adjourned at 8:52 pm. Next Meeting I Tuesday, May 18, 2010, 7:00 pm Community Center, 7000 Nicollet Ave RICHFIELD COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Meeting Date: May 18, 2010 Agenda Item: Park Ordinance Revision Agenda Section: Discussion Items Attachments: Draft Ordinance Contact: Jim Topitzhofer Recommended Action: Discussion Only The Commission reviewed a draft parks ordinance at the last meeting and made several corrections. The attached Ordinance will be presented to City Council on May 25, 2010. The phrase "with the exception of authorized City officials" to sections 840.17, 840.19 and 840.25, was added to exempt staff that are stocking the bird feeders in Wood Lake Nature Center, grooming trails with snowmobiles, cleaning up ponds via a canoe, removing invasive plant and similar activities. The Commission wanted to permit non -motorized boats at Taft Lake to enhance a person's fishing experience. After considering it further, staff is recommending to continue prohibiting all boats on Taft Lake because there are no existing boat launch facilities. A person would have to carry their canoe or kayak from the nearest parking lot to an area of the shore that had a shallow slope to waters edge. Staff feels that the lack of proper launching areas on Taft Lake will promote unauthorized use of vehicles in the park and damage to the shoreline. The City is free to add a provision allowing non -motorized boats on Taft Lake in the future in the event the launch facilities are constructed. The Commission also wanted to permit day use of ice houses on Taft Lake. A question was raised about the four aerators that exist in Taft Lake and the risk of thin ice during the winter. The aerators are turned off in the winter and do not operate, hence a provision was added to section 840.19 to allow portable ice houses Taft Lake during daylight hours only. The Commission is encouraged to attend the Council Study Session on May 25 at 6:00 p.m. ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE RELATING TO CONDUCT WITHIN CITY PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES; PROHIBITING TOBACCO USE, SALES ACTIVITY, FEEDING OF WILD ANIMALS, UNREASONABLE USE OF SOUND SYSTEMS, UNLEASHED DOGS, AND DAMAGE TO PARK PLANTS AND TREES; AMENDING SECTION 840 OF THE RICHFIELD CITY CODE; THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN: Section 1. Section 840 of the Richfield City Code is amended by adding the following subsections: 840.13 Use of Tobacco Products Prohibited. No person may use tobacco products on city - owned narks. conservation areas. oven spaces, or recreational facilities, including without limitation: trails within narks used for walking and biking, picnic shelters. athletic fields, and plav areas. This subsection does not apply to the use of tobacco products inside motor vehicles parked on the premises of city -owned narks. conservation areas, oven s_naces or recreational facilities. 840.15 Selling Food. Products or Services Prohibited. No person may sell or offer for sale any product. food or service in any public park without the prior written a_nn_ roval of the recreation services director. 840.17 Feeding of Wild Animals or Birds Prohibited. No person may feed non - domesticated animals or birds or deposit a food source for non -domesticated animals or birds within Citv-owned narks, conservation areas, oven spaces or recreational facilities with the exception of authorized City officials. 840.19 Regulations on Public Bodies of Water in Parks. The following activities are prohibited on bodies of water in city parks, except as authorized by subsection 835.09 of this code: swimming, bathing, placing ice fishing houses or similar enclosures, snowmobilina, and the use of any boat, raft or any other device or obiect designed to support or buoy up any individual in. upon or attached to such device or obiect, with the exception of authorized City officials . Portable ice houses are pennitted on Taft Lake during daylight hours only. 840.21 Use of Sound Systems in Parks. No person may use any radio, stereo, musical instrument or other sound receiving, transmitting or reproducing device in such a manner as to unreasonably annoy or disturb the peace, ouiet and comfort of any person nearby, or to unreasonably disturb or interfere with programmed or scheduled activities occurring_ in a City park or recreation facility, except as authorized in Section 930. 840.23 Dogs and Animals in Parks. All dogs must be leashed in public narks. An animal owner or person having custody or control of an animal shall immediately clean un and 3672970 CAR RC160-7 sanitarily dispose of any feces of the animal, except that this provision does not apply to blind persons with respect to their ownership and use of a seein?-eve doe. 840.25 Damaging Vegetation in Parks. No person may damage or disturb any flower bed, Planting area, or ornamental landscaped area within a city -owned park., conservation are& open space or recreational facility. No person may cut. trim or remove any wild flower, tree_ shrub, plant, branch or portion thereof, or any soil or other material from a citv-owned nark, conservation area, open space or recreational facility with the exception of authorized City officials. Sec. 2. This ordinance is effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the Richfield City Charter. Debbie Goettel, Mayor ATTEST: Nancy Gibbs, City Clerk 367297v1 CAH RC160-7 Richfield City Code Section 930 - Noise control 930.01 (Rev. 2009) 930.01. Subdivision 1. Definitions. For purposes of this section the terms defined in this subdivision have the meanings given them. Subd. 2. "L 10 Level" means the noise level, expressed in dBA, which is exceeded by ten percent of the time for a one hour survey as measured by test procedures formulated by the city's department of public safety. Subd. 3. "Motor vehicle" means (i) any self-propelled vehicle not operated exclusively upon railroad tracks, (ii) any vehicle propelled or drawn by any self-propelled vehicle, except snowmobiles. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23, Bill No. 2009-21) Subd. 4. "Daytime" means that part of each calendar day between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) Subd. 5. "Nighttime" means that part of each calendar day between the hours of midnight and 7:00 a.m, and between 10:00 p.m. and midnight. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) 930.03. Adontion of reeulations by reference. The following state agency regulations are adopted by reference: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Noise Pollution Control Section, Minnesota Rules Chapter 7030, as amended. (Amended, Bill No. 2009-21) 930.05. Receivine land use standards. Subdivision 1. Maximum noise levels by receivine land use district. For purposes of enforcing maximum noise levels by the receiving land use district as established by state rules, noise levels will be measured at the property line of the receiving use which is closest to the source. (Amended, Bill No. 2009-21) Subd. 2. Exceptions. The following exceptions to the maximum noise limits established by state rules shall apply: (Amended, Bill No. 2009-21) (a) construction activities described in subsection 930.09. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) (b) situations in which public health and safety require that immediate work be done on any property the performance of which exceeds the sound levels permitted for that time of day or for that day. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) (c) situations in which the purpose of the sound is to alert persons to an emergency or for the purpose of testing any alarm system. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) 930.07 Outdoor implements. No person may operate any outdoor power implement, including but not limited to lawn mowers, hedge clippers, chain saws or other implements designed primarily for outdoor use, at any time other than between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on public holidays, Saturdays and Sundays, except that snowblowers shall not be operated at any time other than between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. any day of the week. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23). Richfield City Code 930.09 (Rev. 2009) 930.09. Construction activities. Construction activity involving the use of power equipment which does not generate a sound level in excess of 85 dBA, measured at the property line of the source, may be operated in all zones between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. daily. All other construction activity may be carried out only between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on Saturdays. (Amended, bill No. 1998-23) 930.11. Air circulation devices: auxiliary venerators. Subdivision 1. Permit required. No person may permanently install or place any sound emitting air circulation device, auxiliary generator or other heating, ventilation or air circulation mechanical equipment in any outdoor location without first obtaining a permit for the installation. The requirement for a permit does not apply to a window air conditioning unit or an auxiliary generator that is temporarily placed during emergency use. (Amended, Bill 1998-23, Bill No. 2009- 21) Subd. 2. Sound levels: mitivation reouired. The sound level produced by any window unit, air circulation device, auxiliary generator or other heating, ventilation or air circulation mechanical device shall be reduced in the manner required by the director of community development. Such requirements may include, but are not limited to, placement or installation of fencing, landscaping or sound baffling equipment or relocation of the device if the noise results or contributes to sound levels in excess of those specified in Table I. (Amended, Bill No. 2009-21) 930.13. Motor vehicles. Subdivision 1. General restrictions. No person may operate a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles in such a manner as to exceed the noise limits contained in Pollution Control Agency Rules, Minn. R. 7030.1000-1060, as amended. (Amended, Bill No. 2009-21) Subd. 2. Idlinv of motor vehicles. No person may operate or permit the operation of any motor vehicle or any auxillary equipment attached to such vehicle in a manner that constitutes unlawful idling, in violation of this subdivision. As used in this subdivision, a vehicle is engaged in unlawful idling if: (a) the vehicle is stationary, for reasons other than congested traffic, for a period of more than 10 minutes in any hour between the hours of 10:00 p.m. of one day and 8:00 a.m. of the following day; and (b) the vehicle is located on public or private property within 150 feet of a residential zone. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) Subd. 3. Motor vehicle in disrepair. No person may operate any motor vehicle in such a condition of disrepair as to create loud or unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling or other noise. Subd. 4. Loadinv of vehicles. No person may create any loud and excessive noise in connection with the loading, unloading or unpacking of any vehicle. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) Subd. 5. Muffler reouired. No person may permit the discharge into the open air of emissions from an internal combustion engine except through a muffler or other device which will effectively prevent loud or explosive noises issuing therefrom. Subd. 6 Audio eouipment. No person may operate a motor vehicle audio system in a manner so that the sounds emitted by the system are audible at a distance of 50 or more feet from the motor vehicle. (Added, Bill No. 1998-23) Richfield City Code 930.15 (Rev.1998) 930.15. Keenine of animals. The keeping of a dog, cat or other animal which. by reason of noise caused by it or by its presence, annoys other persons who are in the neighborhood is a public nuisance and is unlawful. Upon the receipt of a written complaint of such annoyance by the occupants of two or more neighboring properties, the city shall notify the owner of the animal that the nuisance must be abated within 48 hours. Failure to obey the notice is a violation of this subsection. 930.17. Refuse haulinu and snow nlowine. The operation of vehicles used for the hauling of refuse on private property shall be limited to the period between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. any day of the week. The operation of vehicles for snow plowing on private property shall be limited in residential districts and within 50 feet of such districts to the period from 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. any day of the week. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) 930.19. Horns and signaline devices. The following uses of horns or other signaling devices are unlawful: (a) the sounding of any horn or signaling device on any automobile, motorcycle or other vehicle and upon any locomotive, except as a danger warning; (b) the creation by means of any signaling device of any unreasonably loud or harsh sound; and (c) the sounding of any device for an unnecessary and unreasonable period of time. 930.21. Radios. nhonoeranhs. stereo and electronic eauipment, naeina systems: except advertisine. No person may use or operate or permit the use or operation of any radio receiver, musical instrument, phonograph, stereo and electronic equipment, paging system, machine or other device for the production or reproduction of loud sounds so as to unreasonably disturb the peace, quiet and comfort of any person nearby. The following shall constitute such a disturbance: (a) Operation of any such device from within an enclosed structure between the hours of 10:00 p.m. of any day and 7:00 a.m. of the next day in a manner distinctly audible at the property line of the structure or building in which it is located, or in the hallway or apartment unit adjacent if located in an apartment unit. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) (b) Operation of any such device outside of an enclosed structure at any time, in manner distinctly audible at a distance of 50 feet from the device. (Added, Bill No. 1998-23) The regulations contained in this subsection are not applicable to licensed sound trucks and other similar advertising activities. 930.23. Radios, nhonoeraohs. naeine systems: commercial advertisine. No person may use or operate or permit the use or operation of any radio receiver, musical instrument, phonograph stereo and electronic equipment, paging system or other device for the production or reproduction of sound on any street or other public place, or audible at any location, for the purpose of commercial advertising or attracting the attention of the public to any commercial establishment or vehicle unless a license is first obtained pursuant to chapter XI. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) 930.25. Noise near schools. churches and health care institutions. No person may willfully create any excessive noise on any street, alley, sidewalk or public grounds adjacent to any educational, religious or health care institution when the noise unreasonably interferes with the conduct of the activities of the institution or disturbs or unduly annoys its occupants or residents. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) Richfield City Code 930.27 (Rev. 1998) 930.27. Peddling. No peddler or vendor may make any noise on a public street, whether by yelling, shouting or otherwise, which disturbs the peace and quiet of the residents of the neighborhood. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) 930.29. Participation in noisv gatherings. (a) At any time between the hour of 10:00 p.m. of any day and 7:00 a.m. of the following day no person may congregate or participate in, any party or gathering of people from which noise emanates of sufficient volume to unreasonably disturb the peace, quiet or repose of other persons. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) (b) A police officer may order all persons present at such Party or gathering other than the owners, residents or tenants to immediately disperse. Any person who refuses to leave after being ordered to do so by a police officer is guilty of a violation of this subsection. (Added, Bill No. 1998-23) (c) Any owner, tenant, or resident of the building or place who has legal authority to control the activities at such building or place and who knows or has reason to know of the disturbance and fails to immediately take reasonable steps to abate such disturbance is guilty of a violation of this subsection. (Added, Bill No. 1998-23) (d) Any owner of a building or place who knows or has been notified of a pattern of disturbances and fails to immediately take reasonable steps to abate such disturbances is guilty of a violation of this subsection. For purposes of this subsection, a disturbance is defined as an incident which results in oral or written communication with the public safety department; pattern is defined as more than one disturbance in a 30-day period or six or more disturbances in a 12 month period. (Added, Bill No. 1998-23) 930.31. Additional restrictions. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section no person may make, continue or cause to be made or continued, any loud, unnecessary or unusual noise or other noise which unreasonably disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety of others within the limits of the city. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-23) 930.33. Administration and enforcement. Subdivision 1. Responsible official. The manager, acting personally or through his designee, shall administer and enforce the noise control regulations contained in this section. Subd. 2. Testing procedures. The manager shall adopt guidelines establishing the test procedures and instrumentation to be used in enforcing the provisions of this section. 930.35. Noise variances. Subdivision 1. Authority. The council and manager may, consistent with this subsection, grant variances from the requirements of any provision of this section. Subd. 2. Application. A person seeking a variance shall file an application with the manager on forms prescribed by the manager. The application shall state the dates during which the variance is proposed, the location of the noise source, the time of operation of the noise source, the nature of the noise source, the reasons why the variance is sought, the steps which will be taken to minimize the noise level and such other information as is required by the manager. Richfield City Code 930.35, Subd. 3 Subd. 3. Action on Annlication: 15 days or less. If the requested variance is to last for a period of 15 days or less, the manager may either grant or deny the request. Before granting or denying the request, the manager may require the applicant to notify property owners within 500 feet of the noise source that the application has been made. A person claiming to be adversely affected by the granting of the variance may be given an opportunity to file a statement in opposition to the granting of the variance stating the reasons for such opposition. The manager may conduct an informal hearing at which the applicant and persons filing statements in opposition to the variance are given an opportunity to be heard. The manager shall thereafter either grant or deny the variance request. Subd. 4. 15 days or more. If the requested variance would last for a period of more than 15 days, it shall be granted or denied by the council after hearing. Upon receipt of an application for such a variance, the manager shall give mailed notice of the council hearing to property owners within 500 feet of the noise source. At the hearing applicant and all persons claiming to be affected by the variance request may be heard. Subd. 5. Hardshin: conditions. A variance may not be granted by either the council or the manager unless it is found that full compliance with this section would constitute an unreasonable hardship on the applicant, which hardship outweighs any serious adverse impact upon the health, safety or welfare of the public. In granting a variance, the council or the manager, as the case may be, may attach conditions including sound levels, duration, hours, design and termination of the variance. Subd. 6. TeMDorary variances. The manager may grant temporary variances pending action by the council on an application for a variance. 930.37. Appeal . A person whose interests are affected by the granting or denial of a variance, or any condition imposed thereon, may appeal the manager's decision to the council. An appeal may be initiated by filing a notice of appeal with the clerk within 20 days of the date of the manager's decision. The appeal shall be heard by the council as soon thereafter as practicable. In considering the appeal, the council shall hear evidence bearing upon the granting or denial of the variance or any conditions to be imposed. The council shall have 30 days following the close of the hearing on a variance to either grant or deny the variance. The variance may be granted subject to conditions which the council may in its discretion impose. 930.39. Sound level and bid awards: evaluation of citv bids. The city may consider the sound levels of equipment which bidders propose to supply to the city in evaluating which equipment represents the lowest responsible bid. RICHFIELD COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Meeting Date: May 18, 2010 Agenda item: Skatepark Location Agenda Section: Discussion Items Attachments: Past Staff Reports Regardinq Skatepark Location, Past Meeting Minutes Contact: Jim Topitzhofer Recommended Action: Confirm Skatepark Location, Discuss Next Steps City Council has discussed the timing of the tier -one skatepark and decided to keep the project funding scheduled for this year. The next step is to confirm the site and develop a Request for Proposal. The Commission has discussed site selection at length and background information is attached from several Commission meetings. The Commission concluded on January 20, 2009 that Augsburg Park was the best site for a tier -one skatepark. A summary of the pros & cons from past reports is provided below: Pros & Cons of selecting Augsburg Park as the site for a tier -one Skatepark Pros • There is an existing potential hard -court surface for expansion by using existing basketball court. • There is a reasonable buffer from residential neighborhoods. • There is good visibility for public safety personnel from Nicollet Avenue. • The park has a central location, located by two high schools and bus line. • Close proximity to restrooms and water facilities at the Public Library and Community Center. • Sloped areas give opportunity to enhance the facility design and give skaters movement from gravity. • Augsburg Park has convenient parking spaces. Cons • Possible impact on public library for use of restrooms, drinking fountains. To deter the use of the Public Library, portable toilets could be arranged and/or a dedicated water fountain. The cost of providing portable toilets is about $560 per year and the cost of installing a dedicated drinking fountain to the site would high. • Conflicting use of Summer Concert Program. • Some members of the Community objected to the site recommendation and have indicated they think a skatepark will interfere with the tranquil nature of the Augsburg Park. • Converting the basketball surface to an expansion area for the skatepark will eliminate a current recreational use in the park. The project was delayed by City Council until this year. Since then, staff has identified another potential site for your consideration. Roosevelt Park has a sloped area on the east side of the park near the current location of the hockey rink (see attached site map and photo). The rink has received minimal use over the past years according to staff and comments from adjacent homeowners. The idea is to replace the rink with the tier -one skatepark on the far -east side of the park which would help separate the facility from other uses. The site would offer a reasonable buffer, access to existing portable toilets and water fountains, and convenient parking. It would be visible to police patrol cars and has a central location that is close to a dense housing area of the City. The Commission is encouraged to visit both the sites in Augsburg Park and Roosevelt Park in advance of the meeting. If Roosevelt Park is considered as a site for the skatepark, the Commission may want to consider scheduling a public meeting to gather comments about the proposed project. A i D rn sx W r qq ` r.�Y ��rr cr lL wry., 1 pea DIM "I :eeTi �h /T E � � 414'ISZ b ^fie b v kmm � n Facing north ,. (sledding hill at right) If 4 4k EYE LT' POSSMEE SKATE PARK LOCATION IRK *% I '41 � ' J I Jill qnn-CbP-VP-1r IP From Portland Ave, facing west Facing North (slope runs N-S, at right) DRAFT MINUTES UNTIL APPROVED BY THE CSC. September 16, 2008 RlCHF1ELp COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING Tuesday. September 16. 2008, Madison Park (6244 Knox Ave) Staff I Jim Togitrhofer, John Evans, Planning Commission I Rick Jabs Councd Liaison I Fred WroQe I Call to Order j VizeckV called the meet" to order at 7:00 pm. I Approval of Minutes W"isvo er moyed� seconded by Springer, to approve the minutes of the regular August meeting. Approved, ayes all. cussbn ka Boulevard Tree Replacement Program Topitzhofer said that Hoover had inquired about the tree replacement program and possible language barriers with non -English-speaking residents. He said that the City's process is to remove diseased trees and, if the resident chooses, the tree is replaced. Hoover said that a Vietnamese family did not have a tree replaced and they and other non -English-speaking families may not be understanding their options. Operations Coordinator Hughes said that a map comparing removals with the following year's plantings would tell the story. He said that there is a possibility that the program is missing people. He said that the letter delivered to the homeowners could be presented in multiple languages. Hoover asked if landlords are getting the letters; Hughes said that the letter goes to the home, so renters may not care to respond. Hughes said that the budget has not kept up with the number of removals; people who do not get a tree are put first on the list for the following year. Hoover said that staff may consider contacting the non -residing property owner, clarifying that replacing a boulevard tree would be no cost, and offering the letter and card in multiple languages. Hoover asked if the letter/postcard could automatically be mailed to the homeowner, whether they occupy the home or not. Vizecky said that it does require the involvement of the tenant for watering, etc. Mangold asked if the postcard could be to opt out of a new tree. Hughes said that lots of people don't want a tree and if somebody misses the postcard, they may not be pleased about the tree and may not have the vested interest in caring for the tree that somebody would who opts in. Hughes said that some of the materials could be reworked and brought back to the CSC. Tier One Skate Park Topitzhofer introduced Roger Schmidt, who is volunteering to help develop plans for a Tier One skate park using the basketball court at Augsburg Park. Topitzhofer said that they have discovered that having a builder build the components on -site would be significantly cheaper than pre -fabricated skate -park features, enabling them to also add a path around the park. A park planner in Mound has volunteered his services to draw up plans for a park. Schmidt explained that, using the existing court surface would save a great deal of money and, with a small perimeter path, the park would not be invasive to the park. Hoover said that, given the reaction to the bike trail on Oliver, he wondered what the reaction would be of people who may have misunderstandings about what skateboarders would bring to the park. Schmidt said that the location is an advantage there because it will be conspicuous to police and isn't extremely close to residents. Jabs suggested strong public relations about the positive benefits of such a facility and suggested a neighborhood meeting soon, before plans are even drawn up. Schmidt said that some of the visuals of a display with plans could help demonstrate to neighbors what is being built. Topitzhofer said that this arrangement and concept is different from other facilities out there, so it wouldn't be accurate to bring pictures of existing facilities to a meeting. Jabs said that bringing a group of skateboarder kids would be valuable to the neighbors; Vizecky suggested bringing neighbors of the Tri-City/YMCA Skate Park to talk about real effects of a skate park. Topitzhofer asked the group for their general reaction; the CSC was supportive of the idea, by consensus. Jabs also suggested having representatives from Public Safety present. Topitzhofer said that staff will to hold the public meeting about the skate park before the October CSC meeting. 11 to oftIl Recreation Services To itzrof�J r9Po1ed that the Centennial Mural was unveiled on September 6 at a well -attended event. I Cirri ee Reports I Transportation Commission: Ness provided the report. FOWL: Topitzhofer: FOWL Ball Golf Classic was held on Sat, 9/13, Fred Richards & the Community Center. Honoring All Veterans Memorial., Schmidt said the granite tablets will be purchased; pancake breakfast on 10/19. Lincoln Planning Team: Topitzhofer said that the first meeting will be tomorrow (9/17) Planning Commission: Springer/Jabs provided the report. Celebrations Commission: Topitzhofer provided the report. Community Human Services Planning Council: Till provided the report. Arts Commission: Hoover provided the report. Adtournment Ness moved, seconded by Hoover, to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:07 pm. I Next Meeting I Tuesday, October 21, 2008 Location TBD DRAFT MINUTES UNTIL APPROVED BY THE CSC. October 21, 2008 do ® RICHFIELD COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING Tuesday, October 21, 2008, Community Center (7000 Nicollet Ave) PRESENT CSC Members Ger[v Chamitz, Greg Mangold, Jim Lunderby, Gary Ness, Joe Springer, Joe Hoover, Rodney Schmidt Staff Jim Toyitzhofer, John Evans Planning Commission Rick Jabs Council Liaison I Fred Wroge Call to okw, I Ness called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. I Approval ofMlnutes I Springer moved, seconded by Lunderby, to approve the minutes of the regular September meeting. Approved, ayes all. I Stsif RBports I Recreation Services Topitzhofer reported that a naturalization ceremony to welcome 250 new United States citizens is being held October 22 at Richfield High School and will be attended by members of the Richfield Centennial Commission. I Discussion items,( Tier One Skate Park Proposal Topitzhofer and volunteer Roger Schmidt discussed the skate park proposal neighborhood meeting, held prior to the meeting at 5:00 pm. Topitzhofer said that about 575 residents the Augsburg Park area were invited to attend; about 50 people attended, 25 with skateboards. He said that four meeting attendees were opposed to the idea. He said that one person noted the pristine quality of Augsburg; another mentioned liability insurance; Topitzhofer said that the City will get assurance from the League of Minnesota Cities that it's included under the City's existing liability insurance. He said that several attendees were in favor of the idea; one couple said that the facility would make for a great after -school attraction and the high visibility of the location was an asset. A few attendees wanted to see the basketball court preserved, he said. A couple of residents recommended a different location (Vets was one they recommended). Lunderby said that the close proximity to two high schools would be a major plus, as opposed to Vets Park. Mangold and Springer talked with younger attendees who were in favor of it. Schmidt said that one couple asked about porta-potties; he said that it was mentioned that they are already placed in two locations in the park. Schmidt added that the close proximity to a major bus line would make this location a great asset. He also said that there is some risk with the sport, but the City could be in a position to, at least, encourage pads and helmets. Topitzhofer said that when we get a written statement from our insurance provider, the City can ask them about the helmet/pad requirement in terms of liability. Hoover said that it's a controlled risk issue; because it's impossible to control every move children make, it's a matter of allowing kids a certain amount of risk. Lunderby said that 25 kids attending a meeting is a likely indicator that there is great demand for the facility. Springer agreed and added that other skate parks are expensive, so demand for a free facility seems significant. Jabs suggested holding a few educational meetings and seminars at the park about safety and courtesy practices. Schmidt said that he knows of other older skaters that would skate there, which helps to affect a positive influence. Topitzhofer said that he talked with Richfield law enforcement and they saw it as a positive. Mangold asked if approval of the design services would mean approval of the facility. Topitzhofer said that he would like to gather the consensus of the CSC before sending a design services contract to Council. Ness asked how much it would be to replace the basketball court elsewhere; Topitzhofer said $25-35,000, which could be reallocated from other capital projects. Ness asked If the project could be incorporated into other site improvements. Topitzhofer said that this site was chosen for specific reasons: close to high schools and bus line, good visibility, restroom amenities, availability of hard surface, and park type usage (community park). Schmidt said that the site selection criteria was crucial and, best of all, the specific location within the park also agreed with the other facilities and uses in the park. Schmidt said that using the existing surface saves $40-50,000. Mangold asked if the CSC should review the criteria as they apply to different sites. Ness asked if there should be an exit strategy in case it's built and doesn't work out (equipment upkeep, problems noticed by the library, injuries). Chamitz said that an exit strategy is identified for other projects, like playground equipment. Jabs said that, because Topitzhofer and Schmidt have already done thorough site evaluation, the work doesn't need to be done again by the CSC. Jabs said that it may not be necessary to worry about replacing the basketball court as part of the project because capital projects need to remain flexible as sport preferences change. Hoover said that the front-page article in the Sun can be seen as sufficient pre -project publicity. Topitzhofer said that a public hearing would probably be appropriate to approve the design. Jabs said that, at that public hearing, those who intend to use the facility must be encouraged to take a sense of ownership in the facility. Schmidt said that the streetscape design really is unusual and would encourage support from skaters; he suggested that requesting the publishing of the design in the Sun would produce great interest among skaters. Lunderby asked about the lifespan of a playground; Topitzhofer said about 20 years. Schmidt said that we really haven't seen 20 year -old skate parks of this type yet because they're relatively new, but if materials are chosen well, it will be a durable facility. .AcH6)n416maI'. - I Skate Board Facility Design Services Contract Rodney Schmidt moved to recommend Council approval of a contract with Gene Allen Design for skate park facility design services pending corrections to contract (leftover language from a previous contract), seconded by Springer. Mangold said that he would vote in favor of approval after staff presents more information about the site selection criteria. Topitzhofer said that the contract could be brought before the CSC at the next meeting. Chamitz said that other projects don't involve site selection scrutiny by the CSC. Hoover suggested that it may be because it's a new facility type, not a facility replacement. Topitzhofer recommended that the contract be forwarded to the Council, but the CSC can still go through the exercise of reviewing the site selection process. Mangold suggested reviewing the site selection report would be Mama RICHFIELD COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Meeting Date: November 18, 2008 Agenda Item Agenda Section Evaluate Skate Board Facility Location Discussion Items Attachments Contact Site Selection Evaluation Jim Topitzhofer Corrected Agreement with Gene Allen Design Richfield Parks Map The Community Services Commission held a public meeting last month to solicit feedback regarding the idea to construct a skate board facility in Augsburg Park. About 50 people attended, half of them young people with skate boards in hand. A handful of adults spoke in opposition, mainly because of the location. Another group of adults spoke in favor of the Augsburg Park location. The Community Services Commission voted (4 yes, 3 no) to approve an agreement with Gene Allen Design for design services, pending corrections to the agreement. The Commission then instructed staff to prepare an evaluation of other possible Richfield park sites to consider for the project. The attached evaluation is based upon the following criteria: • Existing potential hard -court surface with lesser use compared to other Richfield courts • Buffer from residential neighborhoods • Visibility to public safety personnel • Separation from other park uses • Central location • Proximity to restrooms and water facilities Each criteria item was scored according to the following ratings: • Does not meet criteria - no points • Partially meets criteria — 1 point Meets criteria — 2 points The scoring was somewhat subjective and should be carefully reviewed and adjusted at the meeting. The following parks received the highest scores: 1) Augsburg 11 points 2) Richfield Lake 10 points 3) Donaldson 9 points 4) Taft Park 9 points Recommended Action: Discuss the attached site selection evaluation and adjust as necessary November 18, 2008 DRAFT MINUTES UNTIL APPROVED BY THE CSC. CSC Members Chri; Staff I Jim is Commission Rick RICHFIELD COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING Tuesday, November 18, 2008 Richfield Community Center (7000 Nicollet Ave) Rodney Schmidt :hoer, John Evans Council Liaison I Fred Wroge I call to order I Vizecky called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Joe Springer, Approval of Minutes Ness moved, seconded by Christian, to approve the minutes of the regular October meeting. Approved, ayes all. Other Items Ness said that a resident attending a Transportation Commission meeting relayed complaints from the neighborhood north of Richfield Junior High, saying that cars were parking on the sidestreets during big events while the parking lot remains empty. Ness mentioned to him that people would be likely to park on the other side of the park for City functions at Donaldson, so anyone parked north of the school must be there for school activities (closer to the building). Wroge said that parking on streets is legal, but driveways were being blocked. Wroge said that any parking issues related to parking violations should be a law enforcement issue. Hoover asked if the police are responding; Ness and Wroge said that, in some cases, the police weren't being called and, in other cases, the police aren't responding. Topitzhofer said that staff has talked with the resident and has told him that letters do go out to associations, reminding them to park legally. Jabs asked if a letter could go to the neighborhood, alerting them to illegal parking situations and what they can do about it (call police). Charnitz asked if a certain league or association could suffer consequences if they are repeat offenders; Topitzhofer said that it's a variety of offenders (visiting teams, school functions, some City functions). I Discussion Items I Skate Board Facility Location Evaluation Topitzhofer said that last month's CSC meeting was preceded by a neighborhood meeting about the facility idea. He said that resident Roger Schmidt had been driving the idea and attended both meetings. He said that a few people opposed the location choice (Augsburg); some CSC members decided that they wanted to review the site evaluation process. He said that there is some subjective scoring, so he's opening the process to interpretation. He said that Wroge had talked with the Augsburg Library and they may have been more apprehensive about the plan than Topitzhofer and Schmidt had originally assessed after talking with him. Wroge said that the Acting Library Director expressed apprehension about the skaters using their facilities, but they don't want to dictate how the City uses park property. Hoover said that it didn't sound like the library was opposed to the idea and some proactivity might prevent issues. Lunderby said that one important selection criteria was left out: how heavily used the hard court surface is used. Topitzhofer said that he intended to evaluate that with the wording about lesser than average use for hard -court locations. Ness asked about the scores for the Donaldson site and asked if there might be better uses for such space; Topitzhofer said that it scored highly because of the close proximity to the junior high. Christian asked about Heredia; Topitzhofer said that there isn't the residential buffer. Mangold asked how much bearing the park type should have in the decision; Topitzhofer said that, because of the criteria used, community parks scored high. Jabs said that he was surprised that Vets didn't score higher, but the absence of a hard court might have brought down the score. He said that the central location will be very important. He said that Augsburg may be the best site, but assurance may need to be given to the library. Wroge said that he visited two of the smaller skate parks in Minneapolis; neighbors said that the users are noisy, but they like them better than previous users when it was a basketball court. He said that, at another skate facility, the kids were noisy and swearing. He said that he thinks the facility is needed, but location will be very important and it shouldn't be built at the expense of an existing basketball court. He said that the park may be used all winter long, when parents and little kids are sledding nearby (with bad language from the users). He doubts the estimated number of users and is not sure about spending money on something being driven by one resident who lives nearby. Wroge wonders what the demand is and said that you don't see a lot of skateboarders out and about. Ness said that there are a lot of skateboarders using different areas to skateboard. Wroge asked if 800-1200 Richfield users will really come to use it, as Schmidt said. Hoover said that, even though users may be less in a certain sport, should the facility be removed in all cases. Jabs said that facilities shouldn't necessarily be removed, but some resources need to be repurposed to offer new uses. Wroge said that Augsburg shouldn't be selected just for its central location. Jabs said that the proximity to a bus line should not be a factor because they won't take the bus, so central location would offer the shortest average distance from any resident. Jabs said that, being a court that is underused, the facility could be reworked to meet a real need. He said that Roger Schmidt may be able to have a presence and a positive influence there. Jabs said that so many kids skate and, if this is built, the users will come. Vizecky asked how well -attended the community meeting was compared to other meetings. Topitzhofer said that 50 people attended, versus 25 at the average neighborhood park play equipment meeting. He said that flyers at the schools attracted 25 kids to the meeting. He said that, of the 25 adults, 5 spoke in opposition. Vizecky pointed out that the 1:1 ratio of kids to adults is impressive and it's hard to get kids to attend meetings, so that meeting should be read as an assessment of the strong interest. Wroge said that this isn't an accurate measure because kids can be told to come to any meeting to prove a point. Topitzhofer said that the question on which to focus is the location, since nobody in attendance is opposed to the construction of such a facility. Wroge suggested Vets, near the Arena. He said that the bathrooms at the Arena would be available, as well as other recreation facilities. He said that the central location is probably not as essential as it's made out to be. Topitzhofer said that about five additional people have called since the last meeting, expressing their opposition to using Augsburg as the location because of tranquility of the park. Christian said that, realistically, Donaldson, Vets and Augsburg are probably the only three choices. He said that Christian is more out of the way than the others, and Augsburg does seem to be a park with less active use. Chamitz November 18, 2008 said that, at this rate, would all active recreational facilities will end up at one of three parks? He said that the active -use facilities should be spread around a bit. Hoover asked if other neighbors and Council members will end up being opposed if Donaldson is suggested as a location. Wroge said that he's not opposed of this location because he lives near it; he said that it would be unfair to the library to put more demand on their facilities. Hoover asked about basketball uses at Augsburg, which is an active sport and would have put demand on the library's facilities. Wroge said that he has observed worse behavior at skateboard facilities (bad language) and the users don't stay all day and don't heavily use the library bathrooms. Lunderby said that, if the Arena's parking lot is being redone, could that area be a good candidate at the same time? Jabs said that the cost would have to be assessed. He said that the Augsburg location has great visibility from the street. Hoover said that Vets is also perceived as a natural area, which could see encroachment with a new facility. Schmidt said that you might get more opposition at Vets, for all of the same reasons (the tranquil nature of parts of Vets Park). Christian asked what location would be used at Donaldson. Lunderby said that the hockey rink could be used in the off-season if the equipment was portable. He said that cricket players sometimes use the hockey boards, but not too heavily. Topitzhofer said that he can look into the portability of some tier -one equipment and further investigate other feasible locations before the next meeting. Park Ordinance Review Topitzhofer said that, as written, the park -related ordinances do not have a great deal of substance. He said that White has suggested a trespassing clause that would enable us to make a person leave the park if they are repeat lawbreakers at the park. Hoover and Vizecky wondered if that would be legal. Topitzhofer asked the group to provide any thoughts about items that could be added to the park ordinances. Hoover said that many issues may be solved by enforcing existing laws. Vizecky asked if the City would ever offer a permit to have alcohol in the parks. Christian said that there is one provision for community groups to have alcohol at events. Jabs said that Richfield's parks are very special to the community and feels that there's a pristine nature that might be ruined if alcohol is permitted. Wroge asked if staff has heard of any issues that call for an ordinance revision. Hoover asked if there are any concerns with the farmers market that might require an ordinance of some kind. Topitzhofer said that staff could investigate non -motorized boats as a possibility for Mother Lake (or possibly paddle boats). He said that the 41" of July Committee asked about laws against panhandling or soliciting. Christian asked if a skate facility, or a similar facility, would make reference to a curfew that closes the facility at sundown. Wroge said that it might not be enforceable if the overall park curfew is later. I Action items I Canceling December meeting Ness moved, seconded by Schmidt, to cancel the December meeting. Approved, ayes all. I Committee Reports I Transportation Commission: Ness provided the report. Honoring All Veterans Memorial., Schmidt and Topitzhofer provided the report. Lincoln Planning Team: Topitzhofer said that the architect contract will be considered at the 11/26 meeting. Public meeting will be held on December 17, most likely at Oak Grove Lutheran Church. Planning Commission: Springer provided the report. Celebrations Commission: Topitzhofer provided the report. An insert will run in the Sun; New Year's Eve at Wood Lake is last event; a Council Member asked staff to investigate renaming 76" and 771" Street to Centennial Boulevard (with the possibility of asking Edina to do the same). Wroge said that the issue should go to the Transportation Commission; Ness (Trans Com member) agreed. CHSPC: Till provided the report. Arts Commission: Hoover provided the report. I Adjournment I Motion was made and seconded to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:40 pm. -' "Nowt Meeting j Tuesday, January 26, 2009 Richfield Community Center MIAM RICHFIELD COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Meeting Date: January 20, 2009 Agenda Item Agenda Section Skate Board Facility Location Evaluation Discussion Items Attachments (diagrams and maps are enclosed, not attached) Contact Site Diagrams of Veterans, Donaldson, & Augsburg Parks Jim Topitzhofer Richfield Parks Map Evaluation Form Last meeting, the Community Services Commission discussed the idea to construct a skate board facility in Augsburg Park. The Commission directed staff to take a closer look at the feasibility of constructing the facility in Donaldson Park or Veterans Memorial Park. The attached diagrams of these parks indicate potential sites that may be suitable for a tier -one skate board facility. The location identified for Veterans Park is adjacent to the pump house located in front of the Ice Arena. This potential location is north of the pump house in the parking lot island, and will not interfere with any parking lot expansion plans. This site was selected because of the following advantages: 1) Water availability — Water utility is easily accessible from the pump house and a drinking fountain could be installed on the north or east wall. A drain would have to be installed. 2) Visibility — The site is very visible from a police squad car driving entering the Arena service road. The site is visible from the front entrance of the Arena and can be seen by staff that are performing grounds maintenance or traveling to the pool and Mini -Golf 3) Restrooms — Indoor restrooms are open in the Ice Arena, usually seven days a week during most days of the entire year. 4) Parking — Parking facilities are nearby and available. 5) Shade — Some shade is provided by the pump house and some existing trees. 6) Security Lighting — The parking lot is illuminated and an additional security light can be mounted on the pump house. 7) Fencing can adequately contain the site. The location identified for Donaldson Park is adjacent to the warming house located in front of the lower baseball field. This potential location is east of the warming house between the two entrance trails. This site was selected because of the following advantages: 1) Water availability — An outdoor drinking fountain is currently installed on the east side of the building and is very accessible to the proposed site. 2) Visibility — The site is very visible from a police squad car driving entering the east parking lot. 3) Restrooms — Although restrooms are located in the warming house, the facility is only open to the public during the winter skating season and during the summer play ground program. A portable toilet would have to be arranged for this site. 4) Parking — Parking facilities are nearby and available. 5) Shade — A good amount of shade is provided by the warming house and an existing tree. 6) Security Lighting — A street light fixture and pole is currently installed at the proposed site and the parking lot is illuminated. 7) Fencing can adequately contain the site. -OVER- A blank scoring sheet is attached so that the Commission can score these sites. The Commission may want to consider scoring Augsburg Park again to further evaluate all options. A suggested criterion includes: • Buffer from residential neighborhoods • Visibility to public safety personnel • Separation from other park uses • Central location • Available hard surface • Available sloped area to enhance the skating experience, complimenting the original design. • Availability of existing indoor restrooms • Availability of existing portable toilets • Availability of existing drinking fountains • Availability of existing water utilities • Availability of convenient parking facilities Please be prepared to discuss this topic by stopping by each site. The Commission will take score each site as a group in the meeting. Recommended Action: Discuss the attached site selection. DRAFT MINUTES UNTIL APPROVED BY THE CSC. January 20, 2009 odd ® RICHFIELD COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING Tuesday, January 20, 2009 Richfield Community Center (7000 Nicollet Ave) CSC Members Gordon Vizecky, Greg Mangold, Jim Lunderb``{{ Staff I Jim Topitzhofer, John Evans CSC Members Council Liaison Call to Order I Vizecky called the meeting to order at 6:59 pm. Approval of Minutes I Christian moved, seconded by Springer, to approve the minutes of the regular November meeting. Approved, ayes all. I 'Other Items I Christian asked about the possibility of developing a closer relationship to youth athletic organizations (liaisons from other organizations). Jabs agreed, saying that the City and youth athletics would benefit greatly from closer contact. Topitzhofer said that this idea will be raised at the annual youth athletics meeting with the City. I Staff Reports I Recreation Services Topitzhofer told the group that, because of anticipated cuts in local government aid from the State of Minnesota, there will be significant cuts to the operating budget (7-10%). He said that staff will discuss it with the Council at a study session on Friday. He said that the goal has been to make cuts that impact programming the least, especially low-cost programs. I F.1�lsll3`siri�n;fitYO.;{ Skate Board Facility Location Evaluation Topitzhofer said that, after last month's CSC meeting, other potential sites were identified that met the criteria for a skate facility: Vets and Donaldson. He asked the group to score these two other sites (and Augsburg, if they wish to keep it under consideration) based on the criteria listed. Topitzhofer showed the Donaldson site. Schmidt asked if the Donaldson parking lot is still slated to be moved when the 35W redevelopment has been completed. Ness said that it would affect the parking lot access point, but not the lot itself; also, it's a project that is 20 years away. Ness said that a concern about Donaldson would be the number of baseball tournaments, which bring a great deal of traffic and activity. Jabs asked what preparation would need to be done; Topitzhofer said that a soil test would be done, some utilities might have to be avoided, etc. Lunderby asked about the hard hockey surface and movable ramps; Topitzhofer said that Roger wanted the feel of concrete and permanent features, not portable. Springer asked if users would behave badly with kids and other people around; Jabs said that the crowd might actually deter bad behavior. Topitzhofer showed the Vets site. He said that the close proximity to the Ice Arena would be a great benefit for skaters to access bathrooms. He said that staff monitor the area practically seven days a week, so there would be more constant attention from staff at this site. He said that there are underground utilities that would have to be avoided at this site; the pump house has electricity, so a light could be mounted there. Jabs said that he thinks this choice is the best, with the Arena and its staff already on -site. Hoover said that he's concerned about the safety of the site because it's an island in the parking lot. Christian wondered if there would be parking issues on the east side of the lot. Ness said that most skateboarders would skate to the site. Topitzhofer pointed out that only the Augsburg site has some hilly terrain, which would compliment the design, where contours would have to be made at the other sites. Hoover asked if Donaldson and Vets are central enough. Lunderby asked if east would be considered because the YMCA Skate Park is already on the west side. Jabs asked how important the existing hard surface will be to the cost of the facility. Topitzhofer said that the other sites may need hard surfacing, but existing contours could be incorporated into the facility. Topitzhofer said that Council Member W roge sees a conflict with the library at the Augsburg site. Vizecky said that the same users would be using the Arena; Hoover said that the Arena is already designed to handle rougher athletic usage. Ness said to consider Heredia Park, which would have great access to supervision from Public Safety, close proximity to Portland Avenue, etc. Vizecky asked if users at the Augsburg location could be directed to the Community Center, rather than the library. Topitzhofer said that the building is not open on weekends, there may not be water access for a drinking fountain, etc. Jabs said that, regardless of location, a certain standard of conduct could be actively enforced. Topitzhofer reviewed the score sheet. The group agreed to rate the questions on a 1 to 10 scale with no weighting of questions. CSC Members rated the sites differently. Vizecky asked if the facility could be built in stages to try the facility for one season. Ness and Vizecky said that involvement of Roger Schmidt and the community of users would be crucial. The majority of members favored Augsburg as a potential location for the facility. Topitzhofer said that he will take the consensus of the group's discussion back to the Council. Capital Improvement Plan: 2010 to Beyond 2013 Topitzhofer asked the group to prioritize the projects listed and consider which items could be postponed in order to pay off our own debts from the pool project. He said that, with some direction from the group, staff will revisit the plan and consider all opinions (the vets park sign was considered low priority, the skate park is considered high priority, opinions varied on other items). I .Action iterrig Change March Meeting Date Schmidt moved, seconded by Springer, to move the March meeting to March 3.