Parks & Natural Resources Commission

Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Agenda January 18, 2022 | 7 p.m. Ash North/South Conference Rooms City Hall, 8301 Valley Creek Road Please note: Due to COVID-19, the January 18, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting is taking place virtually and at City Hall in the Ash North and South Conference Rooms. Members of the public may attend the meeting, but will be required to comply with social distancing parameters as determined by the City. Members of the public may also join the meeting using a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device. Public comments will be accepted during the meeting by using the link to the virtual meeting to join the meeting and then submit your questions via the online Q&A feature within the meeting. * Please note that all agenda times are estimates. 7:00* 1. Call to Order 7:05 2. Open Forum 7:10 3. Special Order of Business A. Swearing in of new Commissioners 7:15 4. Approval of the Minutes – December 7, 2021 7:20 5. Review Bridlewood Park Concept Plan – Memorandum No. 22-01 7:40 6. Review Arbor Ridge Park Concept Plan – Memorandum No. 22-02 8:00 7. Council Report – Councilmember Santini 8:10 8. Announcements/Miscellaneous 8:15 9. Adjourn If a Commission member cannot attend this meeting, please contact Jodi Sauro at 651-714-3581 by Monday, Jan. 17, 2022. Thank you. The City of Woodbury is subject to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by public entities. The City is committed to full implementation of the Act to our services, programs, and activities. Information regarding the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the City Administrator's office at 651-714-3500. Auxiliary aids for disabled persons are available upon request at least 72 hours in advance of an event. Please call the ADA Coordinator, at 651-714-3500 (TDD 651-714-3568) to make arrangements.  City of Woodbury Woodbury City Hall 8301 Valley Creek Road Woodbury, MN 55125 651-714-3583 Minutes of Parks and Natural Resources Commission Regular Meeting Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021 Commission Members Present: Greta Bjerkness (Chair), Timothy Brewington, II, Isaac Eikenberry, Arin Kurttila, Deborah Musser, Rachel Nelson, Benjamin Sayers Commission Member(s) Absent: Commissioners Freymann and Montgomery Commission Member Virtual: None Councilmember Virtual: Councilmember Steve Morris Staff Present: Michelle Okada, Parks and Recreation Director Josh Kinney, Parks Planner Belinda Reed, Administrative Assistant Reed Smidt, Recreation Manager Karl Batalden, Community Development Coordinator Jennifer McLoughlin, Sustainability Specialist Staff Virtual: Jodi Sauro, Parks and Recreation Coordinator Call to Order Chair Bjerkness called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Open Forum Mr. Jeffery Rageth, 3438 Churchill Drive, Woodbury, Minnesota 55125. Mr. Rageth, accompanied by other Woodbury community members attending the meeting, shared information on the Angel of Hope organization. The purpose of the memorial is to preserve and honor the memory of children. Mr. Rageth noted that there are currently 178 cities with Angel of Hope memorials throughout the country. Mr. Rageth recognizing a number of individuals supporting the memorial for children in Woodbury including current and previous Woodbury Community Foundation Chairs, city staff and members of the City Council. A donor funding agreement is being planned with the Woodbury Community Foundation. Mr. Joe Ward, 7817 Somerset Circle, Woodbury, Minnesota 55125. Mr. Ward noted in October 2021, he had addressed the Commission on the topic of environmental stewardship. Mr. Ward stated he was in attendance at this evening’s meeting to listen and show support. Action Items A. November 3, 2021, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes December 7, 2021 Page 2 Chair Bjerkness asked for the approval of the Minutes of the November 3, 2021, meeting of the Parks and Natural Resources Commission. Motion: Moved by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Musser, to approve the November 3, 2021, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes. Vote: In favor All In-person Against None Absent Commissioners Freymann and Montgomery B. Angel of Hope – Memorandum No. 21 - 28 Ms. Okada referred to the presentation made at the November 3, meeting wherein Mr. Rageth, along with other Woodbury community members, shared information about the Angel of Hope organization and requested the city consider a partnership to add an Angel of Hope memorial in one of the city parks or open space. It was noted that the Woodbury group has met with members of the City Council and has since partnered with the Woodbury Community Foundation with regard to financial support for the proposed memorial project. Ms. Okada noted that should the project move forward, there would be an agreement and financial commitment in place as part of the public process. The Commission was asked for their thoughts, questions and whether there was support for the Angel of Hope project. A discussion took place with regard to determining where the statue would be placed and the role of the city in the design process. Ms. Okada noted that staff would look at appropriate park use while also taking into account a park space that could accommodate a large group of people during an annual event held each December. As a park design is being developed, staff would bring back the design to the PNRC for review and discussion. A discussion took place with regard to ongoing maintenance of a potential site. Ms. Okada noted that that aspect could be addressed in a contract. There was a discussion as to whether there would be a religious affiliation. It was noted that the nature of the memorial has no religious underpinning with the memorial being a place of peace where parents, families and members of the community could gather to celebrate and remember special dates and events in their child’s life. The Commission was supportive of such a memorial and there was consensus that staff should continue to work with community groups on the project plans and agreements that align with the city. C. Climate Action Plan 101 – Memorandum No. 21 – 29 Ms. McLoughlin introduced Ms. Abby Finis, senior energy planner, communities with Great Plains Institute (GPI), noting that as staff continues to review opportunities for an environmental stewardship plan, Ms. Finis’s presentation, entitled “Climate Action 101” provides climate action information. Ms. Finis provided information on GPI, an energy non-profit organization located in Minneapolis, with services available for cities, including aiding with long-term climate action plans, the costs Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes December 7, 2021 Page 3 associated with a plan and the different approaches that have been used by other municipalities and an overview of the Metropolitan Council Climate Stats program. It was noted that the City of Woodbury is a level 5 (highest level), Minnesota GreenStep City, which is a volunteer program, which helps cities with challenges, assistance and recognition to achieve their sustainability and quality of life goals. D. Update on 2022 Community Development Block Grant Project – Memorandum No. 21- 30 Ms. Okada introduced Community Development Coordinator, Karl Batalden. Mr. Batalden provided an update on the Shawnee Park Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) project: comprised of a federally funded grant of $500k, including project background and schedule. Mr. Batalden explained the CDBG methodology used for granting funds, which allows investing grant dollars in areas with lower and moderate-income household demographics noting the maps are defined by census data, with a federal formula. Mr. Batalden noted that CDBG dollars have been used in a variety of other city parks and briefly outlined the grant process noting staff look at the budget and resources available, including other projects such as affordable housing, which is also an eligible use of CDBG funding. After a fairly intense public process, including a public hearing that takes place every March, to review potential projects, followed by the adoption of an annual action plan by the City Council in May of every year. The funds are governed by a July to June program year, determined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and program funds may not be used for maintenance on existing trails or facilities. Mr. Batalden noted that every five years HUD uses updated census information in order to rank all census track blocks in a community, with those having the highest concentration and lowest income concentration population. The top 20 percent are selected as areas where neighborhood improvements can be covered. It was also noted that the maps are fluid and change with time. Ms. Okada noted that most of the amenity replacements in the Shawnee Park project, are part of the Parks and Trails Replacement Plan and that staff is taking full advantage of this opportunity by utilizing CDBG funds, which allows combining a number of the current and future projects together, which may have been planned for implementation in different years without grant funding. With regard to community engagement and feedback, Mr. Kinney noted that community members have expressed support for the project. Ms. Okada noted that in addition to updating the current amenities in the park, that community outreach included asking the residents in close proximity to the park to prioritize bid alternates based on bids received. A discussion took place with regard to the pickleball noise abasement component. Mr. Smidt noted that a screen would be installed on the existing west fence and go around the corners on the north and south ends. The screen was described as a thin PVC type material with neighboring residents having a view of a more appealing green foliage print on the exterior, and a black side facing the interior courts, which makes it easier for players to see the pickleballs in play. The noise abatement is planned to help reduce decibels that can be heard during pickleball play. E. Final Concept Approval for Valley Creek Park Phase II - Memorandum No. 21 - 31 Mr. Kinney noted that due to budgetary constraints in 2019, the Phase II portion of the Valley Creek Park plan, namely the Phase II portion of the trails, was taken out of consideration at that time. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes December 7, 2021 Page 4 However, now that Phase I of the plan was recently completed, which included some trail improvements, storm water management and the Miller Barn restoration, and due to favorable bids, staff is now able to move Phase II forward. It was noted that the playground bid for the park is being presented to the City Council for approval at their December 8, 2021 meeting. Mr. Kinney provided a review of the design process used for park planning, which includes approval by the PNRC. Mr. Kinney compared the original 2019 proposed trail plan, with the updated route noting the new trail design being constructed reduces the tree impacts, potential for erosion and reduced grade and radius. The Phase II trail surface is an 8’ wide bituminous, which is consistent with the Phase I trails. It was also noted there are existing soft surface trails to the east, which will continue to be maintained. Mr. Kinney noted the location of the conservation easement on the property. Ms. Okada noted the management plan for that space has been updated, which included staff meeting with Washington County and the gentleman that had sold the property with the conservation easement in place. Pending City Council approval, there may be an opportunity for a Natural Resources Conservation Partners Legacy Grant for the entire property, which would help with the natural resources management. Mr. Kinney noted the health of the trees on the pine plantation are in jeopardy and that clearing some of the vegetation to allow light on lower branches of the healthier trees, will provide a benefit. Mr. Lawrence Doerr, 1502 Manning Avenue South, Woodbury, Minnesota 55129, addressed the Commission. Mr. Doerr noted that he is the seller that originally placed the conservation easement on the property and stated he was happy to see things are turning out the way he had hoped. Mr. Doerr asked that signage be added in the park, which will notify park users of the park boundaries when approaching his adjacent property. Ms. Okada noted staff will continue to work with Mr. Doerr to mitigate the wandering on his property. Chair Bjerkness asked for the approval of the Final Concept Plan for Valley Creek Park Phase II – Memorandum No. 21 – 31. Motion: Moved by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Brewington, to approve the Final Concept Plan for Valley Creek Park Phase II – Memorandum No. 21 – 31. Vote: In favor All In-person Against None Absent Commissioners Freymann and Montgomery F. Discussion Items Central Park – Ms. Okada noted the Central Park Remodel Project Funding Agreement with Washington County and the Central Park Improvements Project Professional Design and Pre- construction Consulting Services and Consultant Selection Council letters have been submitted for the City Council’s review and approval at their December 8, meeting. Mr. Kinney provided the following updates: Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes December 7, 2021 Page 5 Highcroft and Briarcroft parks – Staff is working towards constructions documents with bidding for construction next year. Fair Haven and Summerlin parks – Parks are complete with court surface color to be applied in the spring of 2022 at Fair Haven. Arbor Ridge and Bridlewood parks – Concept plan will be brought to the Commission for review and feedback in early 2022. A discussion took place as to the location of Bridlewood Park, with concerns having been voiced by residents about the location of storm water pond and trees nearby. Ms. Okada noted that the Bridlewood Park location is on land which was the developer’s park dedication in the form of land, and which was determined in the Developer’s Agreement. As such, the park location was designated in the development plans prior to lots being purchased and homes being built. Access to the park is being planned from interior side streets instead of coming from the round-a-bout side with the playground being placed in as far as possible. Harvest Park at Orville Commons – Mr. Kinney noted that staff is currently working with developer to not only work out design details and park layout but identify preferred playground equipment and layout of the equipment. Valley Creek Park – Mr. Kinney noted that Phase I and the Miller Barn have been substantially completed. Minor pavement work will be completed with Phase II in 2022. G. Monthly Update – Memorandum No. 21 – 32 Mr. Smidt noted that registration for classes in the Winter 2021/2022 Parks and Recreation Brochure began December 1. Council Report – Councilmember Morris Councilmember Morris noted last meeting of the year on December 8. Behalf of the CCL, thanked those commissioners moving on, including student commissioners thank you for a fantastic, heavy product year. Thank you for the late nights, diligent conversations which has been appreciated by the Council and community. Wished everyone a very happy holiday season. Announcements/Miscellaneous Ms. Okada echoed Mr. Morris’ sentiments in thanking the retiring commissioners and the rest of the commission for their service to the community. A tentative 2022 meeting schedule was provided to the Commissioners. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes December 7, 2021 Page 6 ________________________________ Belinda Reed Administrative Assistant Approved by the Parks and Natural Resources Commission on January 18, 2022.  City Of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 - 01 January 18, 2022 Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members: Subject: Bridlewood Park Project As outlined in the Comprehensive Plan, the city is committed to following guiding principles, which highlight community values regarding parks, trails and open spaces in the city. When deciding on the location for new park amenities, the city considers the broader system makeup creating a comprehensive approach to the entire city park system. The goal is to provide high-quality services while promoting recreational facilities, neighborhood and community parks, a city-wide network of trails, and preservation of and access to natural resources. The project design and playground concept build on the preliminary feedback received early in 2021. At that time, the city received resounding support of the project and received many ideas to be considered. Below is a summary of input received: - Include a low shrub barrier, not trees, to the north and west - Keep the grass play field open ensuring proper visibility from Bailey Lake Road - Include trees for shade at the playground and screening for nearby homes - Include amenities like benches, picnic tables, and a dog sanitation station\ - Include playground opportunities for children ages 2-5, 5 -12, and older, ropes for climbing, swinging for all ages and abilities (tots/ADA/belt), sliding, monkey bars/pull up bars, elevated platform/hang out/tree fort, and tunnel play The project web site including the anticipated schedule, draft plans, and playground concept can be found at: www.woodburymn.gov/parkprojects. Public engagement for the project included a resident letter delivered to the 181 current households in the neighborhood and a Community Open House held January 13, 2022. During the meeting there was resounding support for the project. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Josh Kinney Parks Planner Attachment(s): Site Plan with preliminary scope of work considerations Playground Concept Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 – 01 January 18, 2022 Page | 2 Site plan with preliminary scope of work considerations Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 – 01 January 18, 2022 Page | 3 Playground Concept  City Of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 - 02 January 18, 2022 Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members: Subject: Arbor Ridge Park Project As outlined in the Comprehensive Plan, the city is committed to following guiding principles, which highlight community values regarding parks, trails and open spaces in the city. When deciding on the location for new park amenities, the city considers the broader system makeup creating a comprehensive approach to the entire city park system. The goal is to provide high-quality services while promoting recreational facilities, neighborhood and community parks, a city-wide network of trails, and preservation of and access to natural resources. The Arbor Ridge project will provide improvements based on community makeup and consideration of other nearby amenities. Items identified as project priorities include: - Adding features to complement the existing pedestrian trail connection - Provide access to existing natural resources present at the Park site - Provide a playground, picnicking, benches, and trees for shade - Enhanced storm water quality The project web site including the anticipated schedule, plans, and playground concept can be found at: www.woodburymn.gov/parkprojects. Public engagement for the project included a resident letter delivered to the 21 current households in the neighborhood and a Community Open House held January 13, 2022. During the meeting there was resounding support for the project. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Josh Kinney Parks Planner Attachment(s): Site Plan with preliminary scope of work considerations Playground Concept Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 - 02 January 18, 2022 Page | 2 Site plan with preliminary scope of work considerations Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 - 02 January 18, 2022 Page | 3 Playground Concept