Parks & Natural Resources Commission
Regular MeetingWoodbury, MN · October 4, 2022
Minutes
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, Oct. 4, 2022
Commission Members Present: Greta Bjerkness, Chair, Bruce Montgomery, Deborah
Musser, Rachel Nelson, Wallace Wadd, Brandon
Mersch
Commission Member(s) Absent: Timothy Brewington, II, Arin Kurttila, Co-Chair,
Emerson Siefken
Councilmember Absent: Councilmember Steve Morris
Staff Present: Michelle Okada, Parks and Recreation Director
Joshua Kinney, Parks Planner
Belinda Reed, Recording Secretary
Reed Smidt, Recreation Manager
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. Rich Ryan, 10436 Lancaster Lane, and Mr. Quinn Foley, 1883 Lochaven Drive, were present.
Mr. Foley, requested that the city consider installing outdoor 3-wall handball courts in the park
system.
A discussion ensued as to handball court dimensions. The court was described as similar to a
racquetball court, minus the back wall and played without a racquet. With regard to the number of
Woodbury players interested in handball, Mr. Foley noted there are currently 15 or so, not including
the approximate 40-50 racquetball players that currently frequent private indoor fitness facilities.
Chair Bjerkness thanked Messrs. Ryan and Foley for joining the Commission during the Open
Forum segment.
Action Items
A. September 6, 2022, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes
Chair Bjerkness asked for the approval of the Minutes of the September 6, 2022, meeting of the
Parks and Natural Resources Commission.
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes
October 4, 2022
Page 2
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Montgomery, seconded by Commissioner Nelson, to
approve the September 6, 2022, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes.
Vote: In favor All present
Against None
Absent Commissioners Brewington, Kurttila and Siefken
B. Turnberry Park Project – Memorandum No. 22 - 24
Mr. Kinney noted that Turnberry Park, as outlined in the memorandum, has remained in a natural
state since 2002. At the time the Turnberry Development was being proposed and within that plat
approval, it was clear that once the properties to the north and east were to be developed,
improvements to the 10-acre Turnberry Park site would take place.
Mr. Kinney noted that with the north and east area now under development, staff embarked on the
design process, which included a space and site topography exercise, identifications of all the tree
resources and a wetland delineation, in order to identify what could potentially fit in the park space.
Subsequent to the design process, Mr. Kinney noted that the overall parkland area became smaller
once the tree resources and wetland areas were subtracted out of the total park area.
Mr. Kinney noted that public engagement included a meeting with a focus group, consisting of
residents of the Legends of Woodbury, and an informational mailing to 170 property owners in the
vicinity of the park space, with a separate public open house held.
Staff noted that there is a logical trail connection to the park space for the neighborhoods to the
south, with access off of Addison Alcove. Of the 170 survey letters mailed to immediate area
property owners, staff received 33 survey responses.
Of the potential amenities listed in the survey, the top three amenities identified were: connections
to Legends of Woodbury, seating, and a pollinator habitat. Others also shared that they would like
to see some connections and modest improvements, such as gathering node and connections
throughout the site, while providing some resting opportunities to observe nature.
Mr. Kinney noted that during the development of the Legends of Woodbury 10 years ago, an oak
stand had been planted. In order to avoid disturbing this oak stand, the planned northern trail will
be moved further to the north. Mr. Kinney noted that the trails constructed would be bituminous,
allowing access to the park for individuals with mobility issues for year-round access.
A discussion ensued with regard to the onsite wetland which Mr. Kinney noted experiences
intermittent water levels, depending on rainfall, and which water levels are recorded throughout the
year.
It was noted that the access to the park off of Addison Alcove would be through an area the size of
two building lots. If the trail connection from Addison Alcove is not initially added, and a “cow
path” of community traffic results in erosion, a paved trail connection could be added at a future
date.
The Commission inquired as to why there was opposition to the trail connection from Addison
Alcove. It was noted that responses voiced during the community engagement, included concerns
with traffic and the perception that access could bring crime into the neighborhood; however; staff
pointed out that traffic from the alcove may likely be from the local neighborhoods, as there is no
parking lot, and the park is more of a neighborhood park; not a destination park. It was also noted
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes
October 4, 2022
Page 3
that a mowed trail could provide access from Addison Alcove; however it was noted that if the
overall benefit to the community is such, then a connection outweighs the opposition.
The city’s Comprehensive Plan, along with the Planning and Parks and Recreation Commission’s
Staff Reports were cited. With the two lot opening adjacent to the Addison Alcove cul de sac, and
opening to the park, staff noted that it would be odd not to add the trail connection.
The Commission noted they liked the concept plan, including the realignment of the trail to avoid
the existing tree segments. The consensus was to put a pause on the potential trail segment south to
Addison Alcove, which connection could be added at a later date. Staff indicated they would further
review previous planning documents and gather more information and bring that back should staff
recommend a different approach.
Ms. Okada thanked the PNRC for their feedback. Staff will post information on the City’s website
park project page with updates, timeline and next steps.
C. Discussion Items
Ms. Okada polled the Commission as to their preference with regard to being provided a listing all
the projects, or if they prefer a brief update with no memorandum. There was consensus that
having the park projects listing is helpful and being provided a brief update each meeting is
welcomed; however, a memorandum is not necessary.
A discussion ensued with regard to the completed Bridlewood Farms Park. Staff noted that the park
is very busy following the dinner hour and that user feedback has been that the fence and bushes
look great and that the park is aesthetically pleasing.
D. Monthly Update – Memorandum No. 22 – 25
Mr. Smidt noted that the annual Big Truck Day event was again a success and that if anyone has a
connection with a monster truck or combine for next year’s event, to connect with staff.
Mr. Smidt noted that registration for the winter/spring recreation brochure begins Wednesday,
Nov. 30.
Ms. Okada noted that the change to a smaller print brochure mailed to Woodbury households, with
the full brochure available on the city’s website, has not affected registration.
Council Report – Councilmember Morris
None
Announcements/Miscellaneous
There was consensus to hold the November 1, PNRC meeting at M Health Fairview Sports Center, in
the upper level conference room, to be convened at 7:00 p.m. Prior to the meeting, a tour of the
facility will be organized to begin at 6:15 p.m. (It was noted that the meeting will be held in-person;
no live/virtual technology will be available at the site.)
There was also consensus to hold the December 6, PNRC meeting at the Central Park Facility.
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes
October 4, 2022
Page 4
Mr. Smidt noted that following a staff member transfer to the Parks Division, the Recreation
Division recently welcomed Recreation Program Specialist, Joseph Vaughan to the Recreation team.
Mr. Vaughan will be focusing on adaptive recreation.
Mr. Smidt also noted that Recreation Program Specialist, Elizabeth Owens, will be working with a
senior focus group, to provide feedback and identify what additional programming might fit with
the design spaces being considered at Central Park.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Belinda Reed
________________________________
Belinda Reed
Administrative Assistant
Approved by the Parks and Natural Resources Commission on November 1, 2022.
Agenda
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting
Agenda
October 4, 2022 | 7 p.m.
Ash North/South Conference Rooms
City Hall, 8301 Valley Creek Road
Please note: Due to COVID-19, the October 4, 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.
6:00 1. Glacial Valley Park Tour
(Gather at trailhead nearest 5300 Pine Island Road)
* Please note that all agenda times are estimates.
7:00* 1. Call to Order
7:05 2. Open Forum
7:15 3. Approval of the Minutes – September 6, 2022
7:20 4. Turnberry Park Project – Memorandum No. 22 - 24
7:35 5. Discussion Items
A. Current Projects – Status Update1
7:45 6. Monthly Update – Memorandum No. 22 - 25
7:50 7. Council Report – Councilmember Morris
7:55 8. Announcements/Miscellaneous 1
8:00 9. Adjourn
If a Commission member cannot attend this meeting, please contact Belinda Reed
at 651-714-3584 by Monday, Oct. 3, 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.
1 Items under comments and updates are intended to be informational or of brief inquiry.More
substantial discussion of matters under status updates and miscellaneous should be scheduled for a future
agenda.
N
W E
S
PNRC
Glacial Valley Park Tour
Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022
6-6:45 p.m.
Woodbury Drive/Cty. Rd. 19
Driving Directions from City Hall to
Glacial Valley Park:
• Valley Creek Road east to Woodbury
Pine Island Road
Drive South (County Road 19) past
Dale Road.
• Turn right (west) on Glacial Valley
Road and follow to the end –
Trailhead at the intersection of Glacial
Glacial Valley Road Valley Road and Pine Island Road.
(Parking along roadway.)
• (Gather at the Trailhead)
Pine Island Rd.
Street Parking
City of Woodbury
5300 Pine Island Rd.
Trailhead
City of Woodbury City of Woodbury
Gather at the 9651 Glacial Valley Rd.
Trailhead
So. Wash. County
Watershed District
Property
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, Sept. 6, 2022
Commission Members Present: Greta Bjerkness, Chair, Timothy Brewington, II, Bruce
Montgomery, Arin Kurttila, Co-Chair, Deborah
Musser, Rachel Nelson, Wallace Wadd, Brandon
Mersch, Emerson Siefken
Commission Member(s) Absent: None
Commission Member Virtual: None
Councilmember In-person: Councilmember Steve Morris
Staff Present: Michelle Okada, Parks and Recreation Director
Jennifer McLoughlin, Sr. Environmental
Resources Coordinator
Belinda Reed, Recording Secretary
Eric Searles, Asst. Community Dev. Director/
City Planner
Reed Smidt, Recreation Manager
Staff Virtual: Jodi Sauro, Parks and Recreation Coordinator
Call to Order
Chair Bjerkness called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.
Special Order of Business
- GreenStep Cities Award – Memorandum No. 22 – 20
Ms. Okada introduced Jennifer McLoughlin, Senior Environmental Resources Coordinator.
Ms. McLoughlin showcased the award noting that the city has progressed through all the GreenStep
Cities’ program metrics since becoming a member in 2019; reaching Step 5 in 2021. Ms.
McLoughlin noted that Mayor Anne Burt was present at the Minnesota conference to accept the
award with someone from GreenStep Cities to make a formal award presentation at the City Council
meeting on September 28.
Open Forum
None.
Action Items
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes
September 6, 2022
Page 2
A. June 7, 2022, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes
Chair Bjerkness asked for the approval of the Minutes of the June 7, 2022, meeting of the Parks and
Natural Resources Commission.
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Montgomery, seconded by Commissioner Musser to
approve the June 7, 2022, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes.
Vote: In favor All present
Against None
Absent None
B. Strategic Initiative – Environmental Stewardship – Memorandum No. 22 - 21
Ms. Okada noted that Chair Bjerkness had presented the PNRC’s strategic initiative
recommendation to the City Council at their meeting on August 31, 2022. The Council requested
clarification from a fiscal and financial standpoint, which were noted as important in defining the
consultant scope of work prior to going out to bid.
Ms. McLoughlin thanked the PNRC for all their work in making the recommendation for the
Council’s consideration.
Ms. Okada noted that no action is needed at this point; however, staff wanted to keep the PNRC
informed on the progress of the strategic initiative recommended by the Commission.
C. Community Development/Planning Update - Memorandum No. 22 – 22
Mr. Searles provided an update on the development activity occurring in the community including
residential, consisting of multi-family, single family and detached townhomes, and commercial
activities and highlighted the South of Dale Master Plan (Plan), which encompasses 600 acres. Mr.
Searles noted that the Plan looks at integrations of all the infrastructure, including parkland and
open space and layers together to create a system that is a value-add throughout each discipline.
Mr. Searles also noted that the City of Woodbury recently received an award of merit for a previous
master plan implementation by the Minnesota Planning Association.
Among the many developments identified throughout the presentation, Mr. Searles highlighted the
Amazon warehouse/distribution center facility, which prior to the announcement of Amazon as the
tenant of that building was referred to as “Project Bell,” further noting that the building of the
facility necessitated the reconstruction of Hudson Road and that was funded fully by Amazon, as
part of private construction activities necessary to serve their site.
A discussion took place regarding infrastructure improvements and update of Dale Road to Cottage
Grove Drive, which first phase is anticipated to start 2024/2025, with the roadway extending all the
way to Manning Avenue, at some point in the future.
Mr. Searles also noted that city water and sewer service to the Andy’s Bark Park area is projected for
the latter portion of the Phase II development.
A discussion took place with regard to Orville Commons, which is an affordable housing community
with income restrictions.
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes
September 6, 2022
Page 3
6. Discussion Items
Ms. Okada provided the Commission with a review of 2022 park projects and outlined upcoming
CIP projects.
Ms. Okada noted staff during the master plan process, when possible, before developers are
identified, works closely with Community Development to anticipate what the housing stock might
be and mapping out the recreational needs and identifying what amenities and space would benefit
the overall city’s park system, so that there is a clear idea of what the park and open space could
look like prior to development. In some cases, it was noted that getting ahead of the park spaces
allows use of some of the efficiencies of the developer.
A discussion took place regarding tree preservation at Schilling Park, with its existing Oak Savanna.
Ms. Okada noted that preservation was the goal for the park area, which also includes potential trail
connections.
A discussion ensued with regard to La Lake Park and possible water drainage issues. Ms. Okada
noted that some master planning dollars are being planned to look at future options at La Lake
starting the end of 2022, as well as a joint funding approach, with the watershed district and others,
to study the needs of the watershed in that area of the city.
Ms. Okada noted that the Central Park schematic designs were presented to the City Council at their
August 24, workshop. The City Council consensus, upon reviewing the 3 design options, provided
direction to staff to proceed to design development with Option B2, which includes all of Option A
and B1 components and adds a 6,000 square-foot program/lease space constructed above the
multi-purpose space, as well as infrastructure to accommodate the additional spaces.
Ms. Okada noted the city will continue to seek state bonding up to $15m, which was proposed last
year, as well as other legislative items that may help support the project.
Ms. Okada encouraged the Commissioners to visit Central Park, to look at the space to help envision
opportunities with what is being proposed.
F. Monthly Update – Memorandum No. 22 – 23
Mr. Smidt highlighted the Recreation Division’s busy summer programming season noting that
staff, while being down one staff member and the seasonal staffing challenge, put together many fun
and well attended summer programs.
Commissioners noted the wide variety of programs that were offered, and a few Commissioners
shared that their family members enjoyed participating in some of the Recreation summer
programs.
Mr. Smidt confirmed that the very popular “Big Truck Day,” would again be held at Central Park on
Saturday, Sept. 24, from 9 a.m. – noon.
Council Report – Councilmember Morris
Council Member Morris noted that the City Council will be reviewing the $142 million, 2023
proposed budget, which is available on the city’s website, at a Council workshop scheduled to be
held at the Public Safety building on Wednesday, Sept. 14, starting at 4 p.m. Mr. Morris further
noted that there are a number of touchpoints on the budget, throughout the year, and as a statutory
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes
September 6, 2022
Page 4
city, truth in taxation notice is required to go out in a certain timeframe, as dictated by state law.
The proposed budget is posted on the city’s website and Mr. Morris encouraged residents to provide
feedback on what he described as the most important thing the City Council does each year.
Mr. Morris noted that the Community Engagement and Equity Coordinator, presented the draft
Community Engagement Guide to Council at the August 24, workshop, with the Council to consider
the adoption of the guide the end of September. Mr. Morris noted he anticipates that the guide will
be presented at the City Council/Advisory Commission kick-off in January 2023.
Announcements/Miscellaneous
The PNRC decided to tour Glacial Valley Park prior to the October 4, PNRC meeting. Additional
information and directions will be provided in the October meeting packet. Ms. Okada asked the
Commissioners to RSVP once they receive the tour invite.
Central Park was identified as a future park tour site the PNRC would like to tour at a future date.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
________________________________
Belinda Reed
Administrative Assistant
Approved by the Parks and Natural Resources Commission on October 4, 2022.
City Of Woodbury
Parks and Recreation Department
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 - 24 October 4, 2022
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members:
Subject: Turnberry 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.
Specifically, the Turnberry open space area includes land acquired by the city for preservation of
woodlands and wetlands. The open space has remained in a natural state since 2002, when the
plat was approved by the City Council, Parks and Recreation Commission, and the Planning
Commission. As called out in those approvals, “A ten-acre public park is shown in the northeast
corner of the area and will be expanded as properties to the north and east are proposed for
development.”
Public engagement for the project included a resident letter delivered to the 170 current households
in the neighborhood, a focus group held with the Legends of Woodbury residents on June 15, 2022,
and a Community Open House held August 23, 2022. During the meetings there was resounding
support for the project and many ideas to be considered were received. Below is a summary of
input received:
- Provide a trail connection to Legends of Woodbury
- Increase prairie plantings and pollinator habitat
- Provide an opportunity for picnicking and resting areas with benches
- Include amenities like benches, picnic tables, and a dog sanitation station
- Include minimal amenities while maintaining the natural character of the area
The project website, including the anticipated schedule, draft plans, and playground concept, can
be found at: www.woodburymn.gov/parkprojects.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Josh Kinney
Parks Planner
Attachment: Site Plan with preliminary scope of work considerations
Parks and Natural Resources Commission
Memorandum 22 – 24
October 4, 2022 Page | 2
Site Plan with preliminary scope of work considerations
City of Woodbury
Parks and Recreation Department
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 – 25 October 4, 2022
Eagle Valley Golf Course (EVGC) – Dan Moris
The golf course continues to see steady
play as we head into the fall season.
Looking back at the number of rounds
played during the past several months,
the course has consistently outpaced our
budget numbers. Rounds played May –
September exceeded budget projections
by over 4,000. The monthly
comparisons over the summer have been
higher than what we experienced in a
record setting 2021. Hoping weather
cooperates as we head into the final
stretch so we can make up some of the
rounds lost to the poor spring
conditions.
The facility hosted several events over
the past month, including a couple of college golf matches. The University of
Northwestern hosted a two-day match followed later in the month by St. Catherine
University, as they utilized Eagle Valley for day two of their invitational. It was also nice to
see the Woodbury Fire Alumni Association back for their fundraiser.
In addition to the annual fall clean-up and winter prep work, our maintenance crew is
scheduled to blow-out the irrigation system on November 1. At that point in time, we
know the end is definitely near.
Recreation Division – Reed Smidt
The annual Big Truck Day was held on Saturday, Sept. 24, in Central Park’s east parking
lot. Over 3,000 people attended this year’s event. We are grateful for our teammates from
Public Safety, Public Works and guests for all of the amazing vehicles they brought to this
event!
Parks and Natural Resources Commission
Memorandum 22 – 25
October 4, 2022 Page 2 of 2
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Michelle Okada
Parks and Recreation Director
Community
Development Update
South of
Dale
Master
Plan
South of Dale Master Plan
Adopted in September 2021.
Only Phase 2C is open.
Entire plan represents ~600 acres
Westwind
- In development review –
+/- 450 Units on 130 acres
South of Single family, detached townhomes
and row townhomes
Dale
Maplewood Development
residential
Copper Hills
112 single family and 70 townhomes
DR Horton
Orville Commons and Arbor Ridge
Orville Commons
211 apartment units and 24 townhomes 60% AMI
future medical office/clinic space
Arbor Ridge Dominium
138 single family
38 detached townhomes
Dominium
AirLake North
East of
108 single family
73 detached townhomes
104 row townhomes
Woodbury Pulte
Waypointe of Woodbury
Drive at 97 single family
111 detached townhomes
Dale Road
Tradition Development
Hartung Farm
26 single family
Thone Development
East Pointe
41 single family
48 detached townhomes
50 townhomes
Lennar
Future Residential
Development in 2023
Spancil Hill
91 single family homes
Lennar
Northeast
Residential North Bluff
39 single family homes
73 townhomes
Dundalk Green
89 rental detached
Pulte townhomes
Watermark
Talamore Senior Living
200 units of independent,
assisted, memory care &
skilled nursing units
Northeast
Area
Projects
Edison Apartments
174 market rate apartments
33 townhomes
Northeast
Commercial
Area
Projects
Amazon
Distribution/Warehouse -
517,000 sf
Black Diamond
3 new commercial sites
Distribution/Warehouse and Self Storage
Northeast
Commercial
Area
Projects
I-94 Logistics Royal Gateway
Distribution center Light Industrial /Warehouse
475,000 square feet 435,000 sf
2022 YTD Data
• September 1, 2022 Lot Inventory 665 lots
• YTD Single Family permits issued- 256 units
• YTD Multiple Family units issued- 289 units
Questions?
Te2
x0
t22-
23Proje ct HWY94
Locations Map 10
1.Arbor Rid ge -2022 2
1
1
(
Te ntative Nam e )
2.Brid le wood Farm s -2022
3.Highc rof
t-2022
4.Briarcrof t-2022
12
(Te ntative Nam e )
5.Carve r Park S he lte r -2022
13 6
(Bik e Playground )
6.Valle yCre e k Park -2022 19
(Phase I ITrail) 78 Valle yCre e k Road
7.Pe ace Of fice rs Me m orial- 2022 14
(Concre te Re place m e nt) 17
8.CityHallLand scaping- 2022
9.Park S ignage and Wayf ind ing-
2022
10.S hawne e ( CDBG)-2022 Lak e Road
11.Turnbe rry-2023
12.Dund alk Gre e n -2023 5
(Canvas North)
16
13.Hasse nbank / FishLak e -2023
14.Ange lofHope
Me m orialGard e ns -2023
Wood buryDrive
Baile yRoad
15.Harve stPark –2023
1
Rad io Drive
(Orville Com m ons)
16.Carve r Bik e Trail 15
Exte nsion -2023 3
22
µ
17.ColbyLak e Hocke y 2 4
And Pickle BallRink -2023
18.Coppe r Hills -2024 18 Dale Road
(Te ntative Nam e ) Baile yLak e
19.Powe rs Lak e Trail–TBD
20.GlacialValle yPark -TBD
(WWDPartne rship)
S 21
21.CityPark -TBD 20
( GlacialValle yRoad )TBD
22.S chillingPark -TBD 9
Get email alerts for Woodbury
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.