Parks & Recreation Commission

Name: Parks & Recreation Commission — Oakdale, MN
Start: 2023-03-21
End: 2023-03-21
Location: Oakdale, MN

Regular Meeting

Oakdale, MN · March 21, 2023

Agenda Minutes

Minutes

REGULAR MEETING PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION City of Oakdale March 21, 2023 CALL TO ORDER A regular meeting of the Oakdale Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at Oakdale City Hall, 1584 Hadley Avenue, Oakdale, Minnesota. The meeting was called to order by Chair Meyer at 7 PM. CALL OF ROLL On a call of roll, the following were present: Chair: Steve Meyer Vice Chair: Glen Giacoletto Commissioners: Glen Bearth Jan Cunningham Mark Giannini Freddie Jiles Paul Lockhart Also Present: Shannon Reidlinger, Senior Community Development Specialist Jonathan Fillmore, SRF Consulting Jeff Koesling, Parks Superintendent Julie Williams, Recreation Superintendent Andy Morcomb, City Council Quorum Present: YES ☒ NO ☐ PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Regular Meeting Minutes, February 21, 2023 A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER GIANNINI, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BEARTH TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 21, 2023 AS PRESENTED. 6 AYES 0 NAYS WILLOWBROOKE COMMONS PARK CONCEPT DISCUSSION – Shannon Reidlinger and Jonathan Fillmore Senior Community Development Specialist Reidlinger updated the Commission that the Council has approved a base plus concept design. Conceptualized play structures are planned for the south east corner of the park, to have containers for prekindergarten and elementary ages, with a challenge course for teens. Residents have been given a survey that was replicated for the Commission. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION March 21, 2023 Page 2 Specialist Reidlinger presented two concepts. She started with the more nature based concept one and opened discussion for feedback. SRF Consulting’s Jonathan Fillmore informed Commissioner Cunningham that the poured in place rubber meets the safety fall height for playgrounds. It adheres to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), like engineered wood fiber. The benefit, though it may not be recycled material, is that it reduces maintenance such as raking to maintain depth, doesn’t become eroded in high use areas, and comes in a multitude of colors and design patterns can tie into ground play. Another material that is considered for the teen challenge is a synthetic turf that has a grass-like appearance. Mr. Fillmore reported to Chair Meyer that the surveys collected as of this morning indicate that the music equipment has been selected as a desired component for sensory equipment. The playground location provides a decent buffer from residential backyards. Landscape Structures is the vendor for additional imagery of equipment. Signage for equipment age level is included. Chair Meyer doesn’t like the music and preferred the youth music station not positioned near adult workout stations. Mr. Fillmore dismissed winter weather as an equipment concern for Vice Chair Giacoletto, citing that all equipment has been installed to be durable and elsewhere in Minnesota. He agreed that younger children will try to use equipment designed for ages 13 plus, but reassured that designs meet safety standards with the cushion material. Specialist Reidlinger switched to the more modern concept two and opened discussion for feedback. Mr. Fillmore added that the play odyssey has a nature aesthetic and color scheme in concept one, and concept two features a Super Netplex. Commissioner Lockhart supported concept two for appearing to be spread wider with separation of the smaller kids from the zip lines and swings. Parks Superintendent Koesling shared that Netplex towers by the same company can be viewed at the Justice Alan Page Elementary school. Chair Meyer also liked concept two. Mr. Fillmore confirmed for Commissioner Cunningham that the costs of poured in place rubber are high, and the direction so far has been for the entire container to be poured in place rubber if the budget allows. If there are budget constraints, wood mulch may be incorporated into low use areas. For the motion and climbing elements, Commissioner Giannini preferred the zipline. Commissioner Lockhard recommended removal of the Omni Spin and We-Go-Round because bigger kids may abuse them, creating repair issues. He liked all the climbing equipment. Specialist Reidlinger said the log stock climber was a hit for those surveyed at the Indoor Market. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION March 21, 2023 Page 3 Mr. Fillmore pointed out that the log stock climber and wiggle climber are considered nature based. Commissioner Cunningham liked that the spinning equipment was ADA friendly. Vice Chair Giacoletto saw a similar spinning piece at Eagle Point Elementary. Commissioner Giannini added that he saw an Omni-Spin at the Castle Elementary playground. Chair Meyer liked the learning panels and roller slide. Mr. Fillmore told Commissioner Cunningham that all equipment shown is within the ballpark budget. He clarified that the roller slide is considered sensory equipment because of the texture while riding down. He clarified that the sensory wall has moving switches and textures. Mr. Koesling told Commissioner Cunningham that the Oakdale Nature Preserve Exercise Equipment use is up and maintenance is low. Vandalism can occur on equipment that is not within the public view, but there has been little. Lastly, Specialist Reidlinger presented equipment designed for a teen/adult demographic. Chair Meyer thought the teen challenge was great. Mr. Fillmore informed Vice Chair Giacoletto that similar equipment has been installed in Plymouth near the Northwest Greenway Trailhead building. He also clarified for Commissioner Lockhart that netting is affixed and not removed in winter. Commissioner Giannini and Superintendent Koesling agreed that ninja warrior and challenge courses are popular in Chanhassen and the west metro. Commissioner Lockhart liked the concept but is nervous about younger kids. Vice Chair Giacoletto likes that the equipment is designed for teens. Specialist Reidlinger indicated that the adult fitness equipment is supervisory, with a view of the kids on play structures. Commissioner Cunningham preferred the hand cycler to work the upper body. Chair Meyer said the squat, elliptical, stretches and crunches all look like good equipment. If any were removed, he and Commissioner Lockhart suggested the parallel bars. Mr. Fillmore explained that the adult equipment has a variety to provide a full body work out. Commissioner Lockhart added that ADA consideration will enable the elderly to use the park. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION March 21, 2023 Page 4 Mr. Fillmore approximated 35 parking spaces, as well as street parking, when asked by Commissioner Bearth. Ms. Reidlinger informed that the next steps will be tweaking the concepts using feedback from the community and Commission. Council will provide input. The process for agreement and approval will be followed, with construction starting on the largest, central park in Willowbrooke in 2023 and concluding in 2024. Replying to Commissioner Cunningham, she said that maybe one of the other Willowbrooke parks could feature pickleball. PARKS UPDATE – Jeff Koesling Snow Melt – Superintendent Koesling reported that crews will get on the fields in a month or so provided that the weather is cooperating. Warming Houses – Commissioner Lockhart requested information on the treatment and status of the rented warming houses. Mr. Koesling replied that there was no ice to skate and no vandalism. Eastside’s rental was taken yesterday and Walton’s was picked up this afternoon. RECREATION UPDATE – Julie Williams Indoor Market – The Indoor Market wrapped up this past Saturday, March 18. Nathan Timmons coordinated a great season with record crowds and vendor sales. Markets will resume outdoors on Wednesday, June 7 with the Farmers Market at Walton Park. Ice Rinks and Warming Houses – It was not the best year and may have been the worst for weather with four weeks of snow, temperature fluctuation, rough ice, and staff shortages. Public Works tried hard to maintain ice and were not alone with other Twin Cities communities experiencing the same challenges. Nathan Timmons created a rink report of use and attendance that can be sent by request. Artist of the Month – Susan Costello Sepulveda returns with amazing colors this April. She has an inspiring biography. Best Snow Sculpture of Oakdale Contest – This year’s fun theme is “Upside Down Snowman.” 11 submissions have been received for the contest closing on March 31. The winner receives a $100 Target gift card. Indoor Garage Sale – There will be 40 tables of goods to shop this Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM. Booths are sold out and typically 400 to 500 shoppers attend. Red Cross Blood Drive – 19 spots remain for Tuesday, March 28. The drive is hosted by Wellness 50+ and the Maplewood Oakdale Lions Club. Mystery Egg Hunt – One of the biggest events of the year will be held on Saturday, April 8 from 9 to 11 AM. Over 200 kids will roam the grounds of the Oakdale Nature Preserve looking for eggs. Thanks to Larry and Vickie Eberhard of Keller Williams Realty who sponsor the event, provide donuts, and raffle off bikes. The event is full with 200 kids. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION March 21, 2023 Page 5 Employment Opportunities – Recreation is hiring Summer Recreation Program Instructors starting at $15 an hour. Applications and job descriptions are on the website. Early Summer Program Newsletter – Youth programs will be posted online and in house in early April. The first day of registration will be April 27. Community Walk – Snow on the ground will mean a slow beginning for the residents-only program that begins on April 3. There are no new changes this year, with the ultimate goal to walk 150 miles in the Oakdale Nature Preserve. Park Clean Up – Volunteers can sign up to clean Oakdale’s parks. Park clean up is the last week of April. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS City Wide Garage Sale – Commissioner Bearth shared that the Maplewood Oakdale Lions Club is sponsoring the event and all the information to participate is located on the Facebook page. Please follow and share the event. Oakdale Wellness 50+ Aging with Gusto - Commissioner Cunningham welcomed all ages to sign up with Oakdale Library for the series taking place on Mondays, April 10, 17 and 24. Classes are eye opening, have an interesting philosophy on aging, bring up good points on not being discriminated on based on age, and include group break outs where participants can voice opinions. CITY COUNCIL UPDATE – Andy Morcomb New Councilmember – A lot of qualified candidates have applied for the open position on Council. Interviews for appointing a new member take place Thursday. Willowbrooke Commons Park Survey – Getting feedback is important, but difficult. As much feedback as possible is wanted so whatever goes in with the city’s big investment is going to reflect what the community wants to see. Mr. Morcomb connected with the principals of Castle and Eagle Point schools, nearby Willowbrooke’s development, to share the surveys with their families that represent 1,000 kids. He asked that Commissioners consider sharing the surveys with their groups as well, such as Commissioner Giannini with the Oakdale Athletic Association. Bike and Pedestrian Plan – A draft of ideas for trails, crossings, and opportunities across town is online. Recommendations for new developments and parks are listed for feedback. ADJOURNMENT A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER CUNNINGHAM, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER GIANNINI TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION, DATED MARCH 21, 2023, AT 7:52 PM. 7 AYES 0 NAYS PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION March 21, 2023 Page 6 Respectfully submitted, Laura Linzmeyer

Agenda

AGENDA Oakdale Parks and Recreation Commission REGULAR MEETING March 21, 2023 7:00 PM Oakdale City Council Chambers 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. February 21, 2023 5. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION REVIEW a. OLD BUSINESS b. NEW BUSINESS i. Shannon Reidlinger, Sr. Community Development Specialist Willowbrooke Commons Park Concept Discussion 6. OTHER a. Council Liaison Update Koesling* b. Council Liaison Update Williams c. Commissioners Comments d. City Council Update, Council Member Andy Morcomb 7. ADJOURNMENT *Items marked with an asterisk have no accompanying materials The next regular Parks and Recreation Commission meeting will be held April 18, 2023. REGULAR MEETING PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION City of Oakdale February 21, 2023 CALL TO ORDER A regular meeting of the Oakdale Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, at Oakdale City Hall, 1584 Hadley Avenue, Oakdale, Minnesota. The meeting was called to order by Chair Lockhart at 7 PM. CALL OF ROLL On a call of roll, the following were present: Chair: Paul Lockhart Commissioners: Glen Bearth Jan Cunningham Mark Giannini Steve Meyer Also Present: Monica Stiglich, Plan for 3M Priority 2 Settlement Presenter Jeff Koesling, Parks Superintendent Julie Williams, Recreation Superintendent Andy Morcomb, City Council Absent: Glen Giacoletto, Vice Chair Freddie Jiles, Commissioner Quorum Present: YES ☒ NO ☐ PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Regular Meeting Minutes, November 15, 2022 A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER GIANNINI, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BEARTH TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING OF NOVEMBER 15, 2022 AS PRESENTED. 5 AYES 0 NAYS PLAN FOR 3M PRIORITY 2 SETTLEMENT – Monica Stiglich Work groups were established to consult with the Department of Natural Resources and Pollution Control Agency on the distribution of money from the 3M Settlement. The work groups were broadly defined to include people in the area impacted by materials contamination, with Monica Stiglich serving as an Oakdale resident. City Engineer Brian Bachmeier and City Administrator Chris Volkers, PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION February 21, 2023 Page 2 and her predecessors, participated in workgroup meetings and kept the Oakdale Mayor briefed. 3M also participated to make sure the legal intent of the settlement was followed. Monica shared her background as a proud Oakdale citizen living here since 1974, with her home being on the south border of the 3M waste site (on old Highway 5, near Hadley, Granada and the railroad), she is also a 3M alumni who worked two desks away from Art Fry, the famous “Mr. Post- it.” The City of Oakdale had the foresight to develop the area with a city water system, separating storm and sewer drains, paving streets and installing curbs. Very few had private wells. In the 1980’s she received notification from 3M that they were digging the waste site out because levels of solvents were detected in city water from wells in the area. The 2018 lawsuit was relating to materials we only knew how to measure recently. The material from the 3M waste site has migrated south and to the east, both above and below ground. Oakdale has the first carbon system in the nation and it is the proven way to treat the material. City Engineer Brian Bachmeier played a big role in mentoring other communities with what to do and cost of operation. The 3M lawsuit had two priorities to repair harm, priority one relating to drinking water with the bulk of the money, and priority two with $20 million for natural resources. Work group meetings for priority one in the 3M lawsuit began in July 2018 and are still underway. Distributing money based on population was suggested, however it was decided to distribute the money using technical information to determine the amounts and locations of water needing treatment. Oakdale’s quantity of water is in good shape, with the new challenge being the demand on water with the big development going in behind the old Imation site. Additional carbon treatment is the plan to have quality water for all. Oakdale is leading in treating water and other communities are catching up. Two consulting firms were brought in to assist state agencies and work groups to create a plan for distributing money. Karen Carney, Abt Associates had experience with diverse communities and objectives when they helped the federal government distribute billions of dollars from the Deep Water Horizon Oil Spill settlement. Wood Associates, Minneapolis Office, played a technical role tracking water movement above and below ground and using modeling to predict locations. Brian Bachmeier participated on the water supply subgroup and provided all the engineering detail needed to design water systems, such as the City’s pressure zones, flow rates of pumping, and well and water tower locations. The result of the meetings were a contribution on a national scale. Carbon is the only system recognized in Minnesota to treat contaminated water so it is suitable for drinking. Cottage Grove piloted an ion exchange system and found carbon was still needed to remove the material. Cottage Grove is moving ahead to get a permanent system in place. Woodbury had no carbon treatment until recently and has a temporary system. Priority two will have a competitive distribution, with state agencies selecting the projects that get money awarded to repair natural resource damage. There will be a Request for Proposals process “RFP.” The timeline for priority two begins in January and February when eligible community members are being recruited by state invitation. New work groups will be established for priority two, and Monica has volunteered for Oakdale. City Administrator Chris Volkers will serve on the government/3M group. Workgroup meetings will begin in March and April. These workgroups will PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION February 21, 2023 Page 3 develop the criteria that state agencies will use to score the proposals. Then in fall, the system will be opened for proposals. 26 qualifying communities are listed as eligible to request funds. Washington, Ramsey, and Dakota Counties can apply, because materials have been found in the Mississippi and St. Croix, reaching as far as Hastings. Watershed districts will take a larger role. The limited funding will have competitive bidding and non-government agencies can apply. To avoid conflict of interest, the work groups will not see the project list or get a vote. Newport has pleaded for work group members to have the ability to write proposals because they don’t have active participation in the community regarding the settlement. Proposals will be evaluated by the State co-trustees; the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Department of Natural Resources. The work groups will revise goals for what projects should receive most emphasis, such as projects focused on restoring, protecting, and enhancing resources and wildlife habitats. Fish tissue contamination has been a big deal. Contaminated areas will be looked at for improvement and enhancement of outdoor recreation opportunities. Funding will awarded in a lump sum. Monica encouraged the City of Oakdale to take priority two into serious consideration as there is a number of months to brainstorm what wish-listed park improvement projects may fit within the intent of the legal settlement. She will meet with the City of Oakdale Environmental Commission next. She guided thinking toward projects that may be on a Capital Improvement Plan for the next five or ten years. Selection may be weighted toward projects with detailed plans already in place. These projects would be ready to put in place if funding was awarded. Cost estimates are highly regarded. There will be separate solicitations for habitat restoration, fishing, and recreational use with the focus on wildlife and habitats on a regional scale, rather than jurisdictional. CHAIR/VICE CHAIR VOTE Chair Lockhart opened the nominations for Chair. He nominated Steve Meyer, seconded by Mark Giannini. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER CUNNINGHAM, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER GIANNINI TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS. 5 AYES 0 NAYS A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER CUNNINGHAM, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER GIANNINI TO ELECT STEVE MEYER AS CHAIR. 5 AYES 0 NAYS Chair Lockhart opened the nominations for Vice Chair. Commissioner Cunningham nominated Glen Giacoletto, seconded by Steve Meyer. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER MEYER, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BEARTH TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS. 5 AYES 0 NAYS PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION February 21, 2023 Page 4 A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER CUNNINGHAM, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER MEYER TO ELECT GLEN GIACOLETTO AS VICE CHAIR. 5 AYES 0 NAYS PARKS UPDATE – Jeff Koesling Ice Rink Issues – The current rink season has been horrible, and Mr. Koesling said Oakdale is not the only community in that boat. In 22 years of service, this is one of the top two worst years, maybe after 2005. One week will have 5 or 10 below temperatures, followed by rain and 47 degrees. Crews have done their best but March brings higher and hotter sun and the flooding doesn’t take in late February and early March. The warming houses are not cheap to rent. No vandalism has been found. Photos are taken on arrival of the facilities’ condition and they are inspected at the end of the season. Winter Storm Snow Plan – The winter storm will be occurring in the next 72 hours. Crews will be in at 4 AM to do a full plow. The snow will lay down in the late morning and early afternoon with enough time to clean. Snow will come in force, heavier, tomorrow late afternoon through the evening into Thursday. Three to four trucks will stay to run mains for police, fire and medics to have mobility. There aren’t enough trucks to run residential. In an emergency, public works will be contacted to plow access to the location. Following crews will come on at 3 PM and plow around the clock until done. There are 20 some staff that won’t be ran past working a maximum number of hours. They need rest for a stressful job. Fields – Parks Superintendent Koesling will touch on fields in early spring. Mark Giannini is the new field liaison for the Oakdale Athletic Association. RECREATION UPDATE – Julie Williams Spring Newsletter – Oakdale Recreation is taking registrations for spring programs, covering the months of February through May. Summer Registration – Information will be available online for summer programs beginning in early April. AARP Tax Assistance – The Discovery Center is a tax assistance site Mondays and Thursdays through April 13. All appointments have been booked. Indoor Market – This great market season had record numbers at most markets. Remaining dates are March 4 and 18. Market Coordinator Nathan Timmons does a great job. Snowshoe Rental – The extremely popular rental program had over 90 rentals since the end of December. Rates are $5 per person for a two hour rental, with kids and adult sizes available. Ice Rinks and Warming Houses – Skaters and rink attendants appreciate the warming houses and there may be a week or two remaining. Weather has made a challenging ice season. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION February 21, 2023 Page 5 February Artist of the Month – The acrylic paintings of Lynn Kruger, a newly featured artist at the Discovery Center, will be for sale this month. The artist participated at the fall Oakdale Art Discovery Fair. Sundae Bingo – These popular programs typically fill up and the next bingo will take place on Sunday, March 5 from 1 to 3 PM at the Discovery Center. Best Snow Sculpture of Oakdale Contest – It is a great week to get out and build a snowman. Entries are taken through March 31 for the theme “Upside Down Snowman.” The winner receives a $100 gift card to Target. Employment Opportunities – Oakdale Recreation is hiring summer program instructors. Applications and job descriptions are on the website. It is hard to find staff. Applications will be taken through March with interviews in April. 2022 Rental Report – The Discovery Center was up by 20 permits from 2021. The picnic shelters were down by 10 permits from 2021. CITY COUNCIL UPDATE – Andy Morcomb Willowbrooke and Commons Park – A lot of time and effort has gone into designing these parks. SRF Consulting was hired and has a tentative timeline of public hearings to discuss design and layout in March, working with City Council and Commissions at workshops in April and May, and the hope of bidding and awarding a contract for that park in June 2023. Councilmember Morcomb replied to a question by Commissioner Cunningham, informing three total parks will be planned for Willowbrooke. The size of the parks makes them expensive endeavors so one will be done at a time. Superintendent Koesling added that Commons Park is the main park and will be first. Fertilizer in Parks – The City has contracted with TruGreen and the contractor suggested looking at organic options to be good stewards to of the environment. Quotes were obtained from Organic Bob Fertilizer and would be more expensive, so Guthrie Park will be a trial park this year rather than all of the parks. See if you notice any differences at the Guthrie lawn. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS Oakdale Wellness 50+ - Commissioner Cunningham presented Wellness 50 events. A recycling series started last Thursday detailing what can be recycled, coming up on February 28 from 5 to 6 PM will be a tour of the Washington County Environmental Center, and finishing the series with a tour of the Newport recycling energy center on March 2 from 1 to 2:30 PM. Registration is at 651- 747-3860 or www.oakdalefun.com. There is also a Meetup page for events occurring through Washington County at Wellness 50+ Twin Cities Meetup. All events are in the Oakdale Update magazine. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION February 21, 2023 Page 6 Commissioner Bearth shared that Oakdale Wellness 50+ and the Maplewood Oakdale Lions will be at the Discovery Center on March 28 for the quarterly blood drive from 9 AM to 3 PM. ADJOURNMENT A MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER CUNNINGHAM, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER GIANNINI TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION, DATED FEBRUARY 21, 2023, AT 8:04 PM. 5 AYES 0 NAYS Respectfully submitted, Laura Linzmeyer TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Shannon Reidlinger DATE: March 17, 2023 SUBJ: Review of Willowbrooke Commons Park playground design This memorandum gives an update on Willowbrooke Commons Park and invites the Parks and Recreation Commission to provide feedback on proposed playground elements of the park. BACKGROUND The City is responsible for the construction of the three parks in the Willowbrooke neighborhood, of which Commons Park will be the largest and first built. City Council provided input on preliminary park design alternatives and engagement survey results on July 12, 2022; the Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed the same materials on July 21, 2022. The initial park concepts reviewed by the Parks and Recreation Commission were revised to show both a Base Concept (i.e. recommended minimum level of amenities) and a Base Plus Concept (i.e. additional amenities to meet unmet demand citywide). Each revised concept included added description with justification, as well as updated character imagery and a staff recommendation for each park amenity. The City Council approved the Base Plus Concept for Commons Park at the December 13, 2022 meeting; the approved Base Plus Concept is included in the City’s Capital Improvement Plan, with construction starting in 2023 and an estimated opening in 2024. For the next phase of the project, the City has contracted with SRF Consulting Group to complete 100% plans and for construction administration services. PARK CONCEPT OVERVIEW Commons Park will be open to the public and is intended to be a place for community gatherings and activities. Proposed amenities include a playground, nature overlooks, walking paths, picnic space, and restroom facilities. The playground will include an area for young kids, a challenge course for teens and adults, and parent supervision exercise equipment. On March 13, 2023, the City made a survey 1 available to community members in order to solicit feedback on proposed playground design. Images from the survey are replicated below. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION INPUT City Staff will walk through Commons Park playground design concepts at the March 21, 2023 meeting. The Parks and Recreation Commission is asked to provide input to staff on the features of two park concepts (ATTACHMENT A and ATTACHMENT B), play features of different types (ATTACHMENT C, ATTACHMENT D, and ATTACHMENT E), the Challenge Course (ATTACHMENT F), and adult fitness equipment (ATTACHMENT G). 1 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/playfeatures ATTACHMENT A ATTACHMENT B ATTACHMENT C ATTACHMENT D ATTACHMENT E ATTACHMENT F ATTACHMENT G MEMORANDUM TO: Christina Volkers, City Administrator FROM: Julie Williams, Recreation Superintendent DATE: March 17, 2023 SUBJECT: Recreation Department Monthly Update – March 2023 The following information is provided to the City Administrator and Parks and Recreation Commissioners as information only. There is no need for any official commission, council, or administrative action; but rather, this is an effort by staff to keep you informed of the department’s day-to-day operations. 1. INDOOR MARKET The Oakdale Indoor Market wraps up its 10th season on Saturday, March 18. This year the market grew larger and more consistent with a considerable following even after the popular holiday shopping season. The January, February and March dates all saw record crowds and many vendors reported record sales and multiple days of selling out of product completely. We are excited to continue the market season this summer in the City Hall parking lot beginning Wednesday, June 7 from 2 to 6 PM. 2. ICE RINKS/WARMING HOUSES The rinks and warming houses are officially closed for the season. All four rinks struggled due to continued snow events, inconsistent temperatures, and rough ice conditions. This will be one of the least successful seasons on records, with new lows on usage, the amount of hours the rinks were open, and ability to get the rink attendants on site for consistent hours. The Public Works crews did all they could to bandage the rinks back up after each weather event. The Walton Park rinks were the most consistent with the pleasure rink maintaining stable skating numbers and open hours compared to previous seasons. 3. ARTIST OF THE MONTH Susan Costello Sepulveda returns to the Oakdale Discovery Center with a new bright and colorful floral display to welcome in spring this month of March. Susan was featured in the Voyage Minnesota Magazine in December 2022. The magazine focuses on influencers making a difference in their community. At 61 she paints every day as she fights a battle with cancer, and says painting has allowed her to “claim victory over my body and clarity of mind through my paintings.” While viewing her display, you can “escape this crazy chaotic world we live in.” Susan advises “don’t let your circumstances dictate your path or destroy your dreams.” Bio is attached. 4. BEST SNOW SCULPTURE OF OAKDALE CONTEST The department continues to take photo entries through March 31. This year’s theme is “Upside Down Snowman”. The winning snow sculpture will receive a $100 Target gift card. 5. INDOOR GARAGE SALE Our annual Indoor Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, March 25 from 9 AM to 1 PM. 400 – 500 shoppers typically attend the sale, shopping 40 tables of garage sale goods. Booths are sold out! 6. RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE The next blood drive will be held at the Oakdale Discovery Center on Tuesday, March 28 from 9 AM to 3 PM. The drive is again hosted by Oakdale Wellness 50+ and the Maplewood-Oakdale Lions Club. Sign up at redcrossblood.org. 7. MYSTERY EGG HUNT Our annual Mystery Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday, April 8 from 9 to 11 AM. Always one of our largest events of the year, over 200 kids will hunt the grounds of the Oakdale Nature Preserve for hidden eggs. Larry and Vickey Eberhard of Keller Williams Realty will again provide donuts and raffle off two bikes! Along with the egg hunt, there will be games, crafts, face painting, baby goats, treats, and prizes. 8. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES The department is now hiring Summer Recreation Program Instructors. Starting pay is $15/hr. Applications and job descriptions can be found on our website. We are accepting applications through April 14. Interviews will be held late April. 9. SUMMER PROGRAMMING The special early edition of the summer recreation newsletter will be available online and in house early April. Early summer registration will begin on April 27. 10. COMMUNITY WALK The popular Community Walk will resume April 1. Unfortunately, trail conditions will still be poor. Walk as much as possible, with the ultimate goal of reaching 150 miles total to earn a $25 gift card from Target, Hy-Vee or Kwik Trip. No new changes for 2023. Miles Reward Walked 150 $25 Gift Card 100 $10 Gift Card & 100-mile club t-shirt 25 $5 Gift Card

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