Parks Commission Agenda Packet 09-17-1998
.
5.
6.
.
7.
8.
9.
9.
.
AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING - PARKS COMMISSION
Thursday, September 17,1998 - 4:30 p.m.
Members:
Larry Nolan, Fran Fair, Earl Smith, Rick Traver, Jennifer Fearing
1. Call meeting to order.
2. Consideration of approving the minutes for the August 20, 1998 meeting.
3. Consideration of adding items to the agenda.
4. Citizens request
A. Hockey Association
Discussion on soccer fields at 7th Street - Report
Planning items - Jeff O'Neill
A. Discussion on Bridge Park changes.
Park Maintenance items - Gregg Engle
Discussion on budget cuts
Discussion on format for River Mill Park meeting.
Adjourn
.
AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING - PARKS COMMISSION
Thursday, August 20,1998 - 4:30 p.m.
Members Present:
Chairman Larry Nolan, Fran Fair, Earl Smith, Rick Traver
Jennifer Fearing
Staff Present:
Gregg Engle, John Simola, Wanda Kraemer
1. Call meeting to order.
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Larry Nolan.
2. Consideration of approving minutes for the meetings of Julv 16 and July 30. 1998.
FRAN FAIR MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
FOR JULY 16,1998. SECONDED BY EARL SMITH. Motion approved unanimously.
RICK TRAVER MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL
MEETING FOR JULY 30,1998. SECONDED BY FRAN FAIR. Motion approved unanimously.
.3.
Consideration of adding items to the agenda.
A. Appoint a Vice-Chair.
4.
Citizens requests.
A. Richard Carlson regarding Bridge Park - Mr. Carlson felt that if the Parks Commission was
considering a proposal to allow a restaurant use in Bridge Park it should be open to everyone.
He stated that he had a client that had been looking at Monticello for the last year in search of
a site for a restaurant. Mr. Carlson was unaware that the city would allow a restaurant in this
park. He stated that the current comprehensive plan directs the emphasis to be more towards
the river.
B. Mark Banyai - representative for the softball organization, expressed concern for combining
the baseball and softball fields at the City Fields. It was his recommendation not to sod the
infields. Also, it would help the scheduling if more fields had lighting.
Gregg Eagle, Park Superintendent, stated that he plans on scheduling a meeting this winter
with all of the athletic organizations to discuss the pros and cons ofthe future needs for the
fields. The Commission agreed that this will be necessary to evaluate the current and future
needs for fields.
.
C.
Chairman Larry Nolan had requested the Commissioners nominate someone for a Vice-Chair.
RICK TRAVER MADE A MOTION TO NOMINATE EARL SMITH FOR THE POSITION
OF VICE-CHAIR. SECONDED BY FRAN FAIR. Motion passed unanimously.
1
d ...\
Parks Commission Minutes - 8/20/98
.5.
Presentation by Jean Emmonds - DNR
A. Jean Emmonds had contacted City Hall stating she would be unable to attend the meeting.
The Commissioners stated it was necessary to keep moving ahead on the park and if Jean
Emmonds could not attend the meeting that Gregg should continue with the fall maintenance
needs. Rick Traver and Earl Smith volunteered to meet with Gregg Engle, Park
Superintendent, on the site ifhe thought it was necessary. Gregg informed the Commission
that he and Wanda Kraemer had met with the Rotary Club and a fall clean-up was being
planned.
B. DNR River Floatation - Wanda Kraemer, Administrative Assistant, reported the DNR had
sponsored a floatation down the Mississippi River the Saturday of Riverfest. The people were
given cameras to take pictures ofthe shoreline while floating down the river. Ms. Kraemer
stated that the Chamber of Commerce is looking at continuing this event next year. Jean
Emmonds was going to give a report on the event and display some of the pictures taken that
day however, since she could not attend she will bring them to the next meeting.
6. Consideration of request from School District regarding upkeep of tennis courts.
A.
Kent Baldry - Superintendent of Schools submitted a written request to the Commission
asking for assistance with the maintenance ofthe tennis courts. The Commission discussed
the request and agreed that there are many items that are used both by the city and the school
and it would difficult to evaluate each one on a separate basis. The Park Commissioners
recommended staffto send a letter to Mr. Baldry suggesting the school district make a
request to the City Council for an increase in the annual payment of $17,500 now given to
Community Education for recreational use.
.
7. Discussion on Park Maintenance items.
Gregg Engle, Park Superintendent, reported to the commission on the following items:
A. Prairie Creek Park will need a fall and spring clean up. The Rotary Club will bring in a group
yet this fall. Gregg stated a controlled burn would be needed in the Spring.
B. The pathway from Prairie Creek Park to West River Street was planted with wildflowers and
short dry grasses. The maintenance department anticipates harvesting the seeds in the fall for
more plantings.
C. NSP donated four barrels, with tops, for garbage collection on the pathway. City staffwill
send a thank you to the NSP Social group.
D.
Gregg Engle ordered frisbee golf for the Prairie Acre Park to replace the exercise equipment
that had been removed.
.
2
d-J..-
.
.
.
Parks Commission Minutes - 8/20/98
E.
The soccer fields at Freeway Fields were lengthened to regulation size. There will be a need
for larger mowing equipment next year. Engle was researching tractors that could be used in
the winter and summer. This item will be budgeted for in 1999.
F. Gregg Engle showed the commissioners examples of signs for Pioneer Park. The
Commissioners discussed each one and inquired how the Lions name or symbol would be
added to the sign. Gregg reported that it would be a separate board under the main sign.
JENNIFER FEARING MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE COVERED WAGON SIGN
FOR PIONEER PARK AT A PRICE OF $1350. SECONDED BY RICK TRAVER. Motion
passed unanimously.
G. The bids for irrigation in Ellison Park will be sent out in the next two weeks with installation
yet this year.
H. Gregg Engle had received four designs of playground equipment for Ellison Park. He had
requested the playground equipment have a river theme. The Commissioners did suggest the
colors of the equipment should be more earthtones than bright colors in this type of park.
After review and discussion on each submittal, FRAN FAIR MADE A MOTION TO
INSTALL THE BOAT STYLE PLA YGROUND EQUIPMENT IN ELLISON PARK.
SECONDED BY EARL SMITH. Motion passed unanimously.
1.
The parking lot and shelter will be completed this year. The parking lot was being combined
with the fire station project and city lots project. Gregg Engle requested the Commission
suggest ideas for the shelter which will be a main focus of the community as the traffic goes
over the bridge on 1-94. The Commissioners requested the building have an overhang for
people to get out of the rain, at least one picnic table, a place for concessions, and flag and
storage inside.
J. The basketball court was still being planned for Meadow Oak Park.
K. Fran Fair stated that East Bridge Park would need help with fall work. Gregg Engle will have
fabric and wood chips delivered to the park when a crew is scheduled.
8. Discussion on budl!et items for 1999.
The Commissioners discussed the letter sent by Roy Popilek, Monticello Recreational and Wright
County Traveling Soccer Club member, stating that 600 students are currently in soccer and there
will be a need for more soccer fields in the future.
EARL SMITH MADE A MOTION FOR STAFF TO CONSIDER THE CITY OWNED PROPERTY
ON 7TH STREET FOR SOCCER FIELDS. SECONDED BY RICK TRAVER. Motion passed
unanimously.
3
;t .:~
Parks Commission Minutes - 8/20/98
.9.
Set time for neil!hborhood meeting in River Mill Park.
The third Tuesday in September, September 15, 1998 at 7 p.m. was set for the neighbor hood
information meeting for the residents at River Mill Addition.
10. Updates.
1. Water Tower Park - John Simola reported that he had talked to Kenny Schultz regarding the
purchase of approximately four acres of his property by the water tower. John added that the
additional land would allow the City to fence off the water tower area for better security and
to enhance the future park area. Mr. Schultz had purchased the land for $10,000 an acre ten
years ago; however, he has not determined a current selling price.
The Commissioners discussed the added value the four acres would have for the park and the
added security for the water tower. EARL SMITH MADE A MOTION TO PURCHASE
THE FOUR ACRES OF LAND FROM KENNY SHULTZ FOR ADDITIONAL PARK
LAND. SECONDED BY RICK TRAVER. Motion passed unanimously.
2.
Restaurant Tour - The Commissioners discussed what the next step should be after the group
from a Duluth restaurant toured Monticello researching the possibility of building in the West
Bridge Park area. It was felt that the next step should be to visit their restaurant in Duluth.
Mayor Fair suggested that someone from the Parks Commission, HRA, City Council and
Planning Commission attend the tour.
.
11. Consideration of added items.
Chairman Nolan requested the final comprehensive park plans be printed for the Commission
members for the next meeting.
12. Adiourn.
EARL SMITH MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN THE MEETING. SECONDED BY RICK
TRAVER. Motion was unanimous.
Wanda Kraemer
Administrative Assistant
.
4
d-~
.
.
.
Parks Commission Agenda - 9/17/98
5.
Discussion on soccer fields at 7th Street. (W.K.)
A. REFERENCE AND BACKGROUND:
Jeff O'Neill, Deputy City Administrator and Gregg Engle, Park Superintendent, will be at
the meeting to discuss the idea of developing soccer fields in this area. They talked to
Rick Wolfsteller, City Administrator, and he thought this property would be sold for
residential use in the near future. The Parks Commission could recommend this sight not
be sold and be used for a soccer field. However, that would be a City Council decision.
.
.
.
Consideration of an update relating to the property located at 225 Front Street
by Ollie Koropchak, Economic Development Director
September 14, 1998
The purpose of this update is to inform the Council of the September 2, 1998 HR.A decision
relating to the 225 Front Street property currently owned by Rich and Marian Carlson. The
update provides the Councilor Parks Commission the opportunity to consider or to plan for
acquisition of the property.
The following is a brief history of the HRA actions and considerations of the property:
HRA appraisal of225 Front Street:
HRA offer to purchase:
HRA offer became null and void
Redevelopment TIF District No.
1-22 created.
HRA appraisal of 225 Front Street:
HRA option to purchase
Seller counter-offer
October, 1995.
January 10, 1996, $163,000.
No response from seller - house fire.
March, 1997.
November, 1997.
November 5, 1997, $130,000.
July 24, 1998, $179,500.
Offer of sale withdrawal date August 10, 1998.
To not proceed with purchase of the property located at
225 Front Street. Please note the September 8 HRA letter.
HRA motion September 2, 1998
Enclosed are copies of correspondence between the HRA and John Peterson, Attorney
representing the Carlsons. In a September 10 telephone conversation with Mr. Peterson, he
indicated the August 10 withdrawal was intended as a closure date and Carlson would be open to
other opportunities prior to listing the property on the open market.
Restaurant development update. A City delegation met with Brad Johnson, Lotus Realty
Services, and the London Development Corporation of Duluth in August. The Duluth firm was
scouting Monticello as a potential site, for development of a restaurant. The restaurant,
Blackwood's, is a family restaurarit'perhaps a notch above an Applebee's or Champ's. It was my
understanding, the Monticello delegation was impressed with the photos and menus of existing
Blackwood Restaurants. Hutchinson, MN; Marquette, MI and Monticello were the three
communities the developers were scouting. The developers appeared excited about the proposed
Monticello site along the river but had concerns about the lunch draw. The next step planned was
a visit by Monticello delegates to the Blackwood's restaurants. The September 19 trip to Duluth
has been put on hold at the recommendation of Brad Johnson. At this time, Monticello is not
ranked number one as the site selection for the next proposed restaurant by the London
Corporation. Ramsey, MN has entered the playing field with a larger population and relatively no
restaurants.
Prior to London Corporation's visit to Monticello, the Parks Commission delayed proceeding
with the redevelopment of West Bridge Park until mid-October for further exploration ofthe
proposed site by the Duluth developer. The proposed site for the restaurant was the southerly
~~\
.
.
.
side of West Bridge Park along West River Street. Brad Johnson proposed a concept for
exchange ofland. The Carlson property (Block 64) in exchange for a portion of West Bridge
Park. At the last Parks Commission meeting, it is my understanding a local Realtor informed the
commissioners of a second interested party for development of a restaurant. It was suggested if
public land is sold for development, perhaps the City should seek request for proposals. The
Parks Commission will continue discussion for determination ofthe best use for West Bridge
Park.
225 Front Street The Comprehensive Plan earmarks the said property for redevelopment but for
no specific use. The Park's Commission Plan identifies the said property for increase use ofthe
riverfront. According to the City Administrator, purchase of the 225 Front Street property has
not been identified as a 1998 or 1999 budget item. Regardless of the outcome of a proposed
restaurant in West Bridge Park, this update provides the Councilor Parks Commission the
opportunity to consider or to plan for acquisition of the property if so desired.
Following are some suggestions for consideration:
1.
Request the update be added to this agenda for discussion.
a) Offer three-year option at purchase price of Annual non-refundable
option fee of . Identify in future city budget.
b) Offer contract for deed at purchase price of Earnest amount of
. Contract for deed number of years.
c) Cash buyout at purchase price of
d) Wait and see.
e) Add to 1999 city budget.
Request staff to put this on the Council agenda of September 28, 1998.
Recommend the Parks Commission review and identify it's priority with a
recommendation to the City Council.
2.
3.
Block 54 or North Anchor
The HRA now owns the Hawkins, Reed, and ScWiefproperties. The HRA will accept bids for
demolition of the Hawkins property and hold a public hearing for lease of the ScWiefhouse on
September 23. It appears the HRA needs to replace the furnace in the Schlief house prior to
leasing. At the September 2 HRA meeting, the commissioners made a motion to offer an option
to purchase the O'Connor property. The offer and terms were submitted to the potential seller.
A response is anticipated prior to the next HRA meeting of October 14, 1998.
l." "J.
.
.
,
~
~
~
~
""
~
~
I
.
"
'....,...
"
"
"
'.....,...
''''-........
"
"
j)
o
.;;.- "~"~'"
('
o
~~
4
~
~
Ln
N
LO
.
.
.
8.
Discussion on budget cuts.
A. REFERENCE AND BACKGROUND:
Attached are the budget items that were recommended by the Parks Commission for the
1999 budget. The City Council has requested each Commission review the budget for
possible deductions in their budgets. Gregg Engle, Park Superintendent, is reviewing the
items and will report his suggestions at the meeting.
B. SUPPORTING DATA:
Exhibit A:
Exhibit B:
Capital Improvement items - Monticello trail and park system.
Capital Ouday- Parks
Ie
.
.
D8I21 /98
Capitallmrovement Items - Monticello trail and park system
U pdIIted for PIIID Commission August 21, 1998 Funding Sources
PARK/GENERAL ]ACTIVITY iCOMMENTS IVI FNe year tSTEA S1reel Pathway Park Budget ;
Const Cost BurlnAt Main! fund 1997 1998 I Carrv ,L~r ! 1999 , 2000 ~ 20011
; / / I
AdoPt A Park Seed MelliN' for CommuniIV Park IQlntinue oar vision statement a. $20,000 $5,000 i / , S5'; 000 . $5,000 $5,000 !
CommunitY Celebrations Misc Funds for QlmmuniIV Gathennoslcelb Ongoin!l al $20,000 $5,000 i / ! 15,000 $5,000 $5,000 '
Maintenance Improved Weed - ContractSOOiViila Ongoin!l a~ $25,000 i $5,000 I $5,000' . i 1S5,000; $5,000 $5,000
Park land Acauis~ion Fund Purchase PDrtIon Emmerich South 20Acres Build war chest e~ , $90,000 , I " $30,000 I $30,000 $30,000
PIev structure main!. Safetv and ADA imnm\ll!mef11s to exisliriD 19!1l1 - Elison - future undetennined eU 5180,000 i 510,000 : $40,000 vas SSO,OOO $40,000 $40,000,
.Meadow Oak Park Basketball COlI rl neer nlav structures Complete in 1998 1997 $2,000 ! $2,000 ! ,
;
Meadow Oek Outlot A :S1oraaelConcession buildina Completein1998-D~up 1997 ' 512,000 ! $12,000 !
Prairie Creek Park iGeneflll develoomenl exoenses Bud!let more for 1999 1998 510,500 $3,500 no $7,000
Cardinal Hills Tot Lot iPlavstruclurelaradlna Iandscaoina Molle Fallon Avenue Park EauiDment 1998 $20,000 I $20,000 no
Meadow Oak Outlot A Parkino 101 Qlmplete.i1 1998 1998 $26,000 $13,000 513,000 no
Klein Fanns Park Pioneer Park Qlnslruct in 1998 . 99 I 1998 $75,000 $12,000 $40,000 yes , $23,000
NSP Ben 1Ie1d JIlht two 1Ie1d at exislinn D8fIr i Ll!lhtllelds 1998 $60,000 $40,000 vesl $20,000
Park SUMNS - S~e Plans Establish s~a plans for aKislin<l ""'rks ,Three parks to be detenn.i1ed 1999 57,500 I I 57,500
IGeneral Equipment Field eauioment elc iBleachers 131 1999 $10,000 510,000
iSi!lns Good Ioolcina oark monu ment siems Looallon 10 be detenn ined 1999 510,000 , ! 510,000 510,000, $10,000
iRiwr Mill Park I Pla\IO roundlBa U Fields and oarldna Construct in 1999 - resident inout in !Ill. 1999 5120,000 sao,ooo $40,000 i
ISoccer Field Development Field develonmenl 1999 $30,000 I I $30,000: $30,000 I $30,000
RiwrlBridae Parks !Riwr Park Enhancements - MCP imolmnt Pend ing - perhaps relocus on East 1999:5120,000 $60,000 MIs $20,000 I $20,000' $20,000
! I
Total i SOj SOl SO $54,000 $231,500 I .1$302,50015185,0001 $145,000,
$838,000
iPaI WWN Riwr Walk. Qlnnecl Ellis<ln to Miss Dr :move to street budget like other c~ies . 1997 $75,000 1515,000 $30,000 $15,000 ! 515,000 T
Pat "NtflV Riwrwalk - Wastewater treatment nlant iQlnstrucllon in 1998 19911 $40,000 $40,000 $40,000 I !
Pat "NtflV Meadow Oaks to the Middle School 'move 10 street bUOllet like other clies 1999 $30,000 S20,000 510,000 ! !
Pat "NtflV River Road Plaza to M Idela School I move t<l street budaelllke other elles 1999 $60,000 $35,000 1510,000 I ! 515,000' i
iCSAl-l75 UNDERPASS - MIDDlE SCHOO. move to street budaetllke other clies 1999 sao,ooo ' , I ; sao,OOO! i
,
,~
EXHIBIT A
.
.
.
,.. - ~'r'~'" LAo ----- ..... ..- ... _ ,u_....~ _ _ _ __ - - --- -J ..........-
.~t~7~4~~.:~!~)~..;~:K:..;~ ~~\~':.,~~>~:~~~ };:;'~)J4:',~~,:', ::~. : >'" : ....\'i.>J.. ',,':~' ".., .:')t:,'.;",: """ ;': j:~~'~\l~~i.t~,~~~f\t~l'11;;~~r~\~~~~\~i$~~~ ~>>~~.~:,~ :.:'
~,!!)~~tJ)jflG\ >~~'''''''~W~~
::,~",;,'~~~l:~..<\"'" ' . 'J.;', ~
Parks Bleachers & goals (4) $10,000 General
Landscape rake & levelor bar for skid loader $3,000 General
Sod cutter $2,000 General
(1/2) of used water truck $10,000 General
Balance of fencing for Hillside Cemetery ($39,500 less
'94 budget of $9,500 & '98 budget of $10,000) $20,000 General
Adopt-a-park program $5,000 General
Community celebrations funding $5,000 General
Purchase portion of Emmerich south 20 acres for park
land $30,000 General
Play structure improvements. ADA improvements . $50,000 General
Prairie Creek Park improvements $7,000 General
Klein Farms Park improvements $23,000 General
(1/3) of lighting NSP ballfields ($40,000 budgeted in '98) $20,000 General
Survey existing parks $7,500 General
Monument signs for parks (3) $10,000 General
River Mill Park improvements $80,000 General
Bridge Park enhancements $20,000 General
Pathway - Mississippi Dr. to Ellison Park $15,000 General
Pathway - Meadow Oak to Middle School $10,000 General
Pathway - River Road Plaza to Middle School $25,000 General
Pathway - Mississippi Dr. through WNTP $40,000 General
Soccer field development '$30,000 General
TOTAL $422,500
~~M:lW;;j;),l!t:\lt.'i:l~$ah:!:ii".':(,tj,i"c".., ':':~:',':i""::', ;,'ii, ",c,.'.,:,,:;, ',.\,,'1);(>>.' ~";;':"'~\f..;i":'~..ll;\!MJ,~M.!:)tjJoiIa}~~.b, .:..1.~"';',,",i..: ~ ,. ,,,"
~..._.lr<~ -, ,',.. ."' .
KARENIEXCELIBUOGEnCAPITAL OUTLAY.XLS: 8/27/98
, ,do-
EXHIBIT B