Parks & Natural Resources Commission

Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Agenda December 6, 2022 | 7 p.m. Central Park Valley Creek A & B Conference Room 8595 Central Park Place, Woodbury, MN 55125 Please note: The December 6, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting is taking place in-person only, at M Health Fairview Sports Center, Upper Level Conference Room and will not be available virtually. Members of the public may attend the meeting, but will be required to comply with social distancing parameters as determined by the City. 6:15 1. Central Park Tour (Gather in Valley Creek A & B Conference Room on the lower level) * 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 – December 5, 2022 7:20 4. Hasenbank and Valley Creek Park Habitat Restoration Updates – Memorandum No. 22 - 30 7:30 5. Final Concept Plan Approval Turnberry Park – Memorandum No. 22 - 31 7:40 6. Status Updates 1 A. Goose Management DNR Process B. Current Projects C. Environmental Stewardship Strategic Initiative 7:45 7. Monthly Update – Memorandum No. 22 - 32 7:50 8. Council Report – Councilmember Morris 7:55 9. Announcements/Miscellaneous 8:00 10. Adjourn If a Commission member cannot attend this meeting, please contact Belinda Reed at 651-714-3584 by Monday, Dec. 5, 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.  City of Woodbury M Health Fairview Sports Center 4125 Radio Drive Woodbury, MN 55129 651-714-3583 Minutes of Parks and Natural Resources Commission Regular Meeting Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022 Commission Members Present: Timothy Brewington, II, Arin Kurttila, Co-Chair, Bruce Montgomery, Deborah Musser, Rachel Nelson, Wallace Wadd, Brandon Mersch Commission Member(s) Absent: Greta Bjerkness, Chair, Emerson Siefken Councilmember Absent: Steve Morris Staff Present: Michelle Okada, Parks and Recreation Director Joshua Kinney, Parks Planner Belinda Reed, Recording Secretary Reed Smidt, Recreation Manager Call to Order Co-chair Kurttila called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Open Forum None Action Items A. October 4, 2022, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes Co-Chair Kurttila asked for the approval of the Minutes of the October 4, 2022, meeting of the Parks and Natural Resources Commission. Motion: Moved by Commissioner Wadd, seconded by Commissioner Montgomery, to approve the October 4, 2022, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes. Vote: In favor All present Against None Absent Commissioners Bjerkness, Siefken B. Turnberry Park Project Concept Plan Update – Memorandum No. 22 - 28 Ms. Okada noted that in follow-up to the Commission’s Turnberry Park project concept plan feedback discussion at the October 4 meeting, which included discussion about the Addison Alcove trail connection, staff did additional research. Staff is recommending implementing that trail at the time of construction. Mr. Kinney noted that with the Addison Alcove sidewalk, which extends to the entrance of the park and includes a gap of developable land (2 lots) at the terminus of that sidewalk: the connection was Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes November 1, 2022 Page 2 implied with the way the plat was approved and built, as were the two connections to the north and east. So the fact that the developer did not build on these two lots; but rather included the land in the parkland dedication, it stands to reason that there was intent for the trail and park connection. Mr. Kinney also noted that the city’s Bike and Pedestrian Plan represents future trail locations with the strategy that connecting points of interest or places along these trails is the goal of the city-wide plan. With the position of Turnberry Park, with greenways to the south through Dancing Waters, Settlers Ridge Parkway to the east and then Hudson Road to the north, having this connection links all these other networks in the city trail system. The Tamarack Nature Preserve was cited as an example of parkland that, although having no major activity nodes, provides opportunities for trail loops from the surrounding neighborhoods. Discussion ensued and it was noted that having the ability to take a walker or scooter into Turnberry Park will make this beautiful piece of parkland accessible to all, including individuals living nearby, and anyone with mobility challenges, along with the sidewalk network, which is part of the looping trail access. It was noted that the east trail connects with the Legends of Woodbury, and the south trail connecting to the Addison Alcove sidewalk, will intersect at two oak trees, which is going to become a gathering node. A discussion took place regarding the park name. Ms. Okada noted that Turnberry Park has been on the approved park name list for several years. Commissioner comments included: - Move forward with the plan with bituminous trails and Addison Alcove connection - Look at the greater opportunity for all 79,000 residents - Love the pollinator and natural setting with benches - Opposed to Addison Alcove connection as those residents most closely impacted do not want - Greater community should be the priority - Addison Alcove connection is important - Clear that this was designed for this connection at Addison Alcove - In favor or trail connections. Nice opportunity to make a walking path through there. There was consensus to keep the concept plan, with the trail connections, including Addison Alcove, moving forward with a final plan scheduled to be brought back to the PNRC at the December 6, meeting for consideration for final approval. Ms. Okada noted that the trail near the oak tree stand will be situated as not to disturb the trees as best as possible and that a communication will be sent to the 170+ residents with information on the trail locations, and at which future meeting the concept plan will be brought forward for review and consideration for final approval. Ms. Okada thanked the Commissioners for their thoughtful discussion. Discussion Items A. Goose Management Program Update Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes November 1, 2022 Page 3 Ms. Okada noted that the overpopulation of geese has become problematic throughout the years, especially at Eagle Valley Golf Course (EVGC), Carver Lake Beach and public parkland. Current Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) guidelines require that the city have a Goose Management Plan in place that has been approved by the governing body and the DNR, in order to address the overpopulation. A discussion ensued with regard to not only the large geese population in the city, but also with each bird producing a large amount of waste product daily on lawns, trails and sidewalks. It was noted that documented nesting numbers have been increasing; although geese could also be nesting elsewhere and then settling in at EVGC, and other public areas, creating problems for golfers at a number of the course holes. Ms. Okada noted staff is in the process of drafting a Goose Management Plan, to be reviewed by the PNRC, in order for the plan implementation during 2023. B. Current Projects – Status Update Mr. Kinney noted staff is embarking upon a La Lake feasibility and concept plan, and hiring a consultant to support the project. C. Monthly Update – Memorandum No. 22 – 29 Mr. Smidt noted that Eagle Scout Candidate, Domnic David, approached the city with three Eagle Scout project proposals. While all three project proposals were not only very well presented and thought out, the Tamarack Nature Preserve (TNP) audio tour project stood out as not only innovative, but incredibly unique, was selected. With vision, drive and passion, Mr. David proceeded to put the project together, and included his fellow scouts’ voices for parts of the audio. The resulting geo-coded audio tour is now available for TNP visitors to access using the QR codes to download the phone app and audio tour. As the user walks through the TNP, their location is noted and at various locations they are prompted to stop, while listening to the information provided throughout the walking tour. It was noted that new wayfinding signage is also being added to the TNP. South Washington County Cable filmed an interview and informational video with Messrs. Smidt, David and TNP volunteer stewards about the project. That video is now available, and staff was requested to forward the video for commissioners’ viewing. Mr. Smidt noted that the TNP volunteer stewards were very pleased and supportive of the project. Council Report – Councilmember Morris None Announcements/Miscellaneous Mr. Smidt noted that the Parks and Recreation winter brochure registration begins on Wednesday, Nov. 30. Mr. Smidt noted that recently hired Recreation Program Specialist, Joseph Vaughan, will be working with the new adaptive programs. Mr. Smidt also noted that staff is looking at offering sports, such as fencing and cricket, that go beyond the traditional American sport offerings such as tennis, soccer, etc. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes November 1, 2022 Page 4 Mr. Smidt also noted that the community garden, which began as a pilot program in 2022, will be expanded to 48 garden plots available in 2023. Registration for plots will begin at 12 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 30, with the rest of the Recreation brochure programs. There was consensus to hold the December 6, PNRC meeting at Central Park, in Valley Creek Room A, located on the lower level, to be convened at 7:00 p.m. Prior to the meeting, a tour of the Central Park 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 Central Park site.) Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 7:57 p.m. Respectfully submitted, ________________________________ Belinda Reed Administrative Assistant Approved by the Parks and Natural Resources Commission on December 6, 2022.  City Of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 - 30 December 6, 2022 Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members: Subject: Hasenbank and Valley Creek Park Habitat Restoration Updates Hasenbank Update In recent years, the City has partnered with South Washington Watershed District (SWWD) on planning, design, and construction of regional stormwater best management practices (BMPs). One project is the Hasenbank Woods / Powers Lake Project, off St Johns Drive. Earlier this year, SWWD received a grant to manage the understory within the woods. This included forestry mowing in the winter, followed by multiple rounds of goat grazing over the summer months. Additional goat grazing and removing dead and dying trees will continue within the woods to enhance their overall health. Simultaneously, the watershed has commissioned an ecological study of the Fish Lake wetland and adjacent stormwater basins for potential vegetation restoration activities starting in 2023. The final component of this area is design and construction of stormwater BMPs in the open prairie area directly east of St Johns Drive. With the 50 percent design complete, staff deemed it appropriate to provide this update to the Parks and Natural Resources Commission at this time. These plans include a three-tier stormwater basin, various types and routes of trails, interpretation and art installations. Valley Creek Park Habitat Restoration Project Staff is in attendance to provide a brief update regarding the Valley Creek Park Habitat Restoration Project. This project was funded by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program, 2022-2025. On November 9, 2022, Woodbury City Council awarded the contract to Stantec Consulting. Later this month, staff and consultant will meet to determine the final work plan. This will be followed by direct communication to adjacent neighbors notifying them of the project start date and staff contact information. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Kristin Seaman Environmental Resources Coordinator  City Of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 - 31 December 6, 2022 Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members: Subject: Turnberry Park Project Concept Plan Update The effort to provide access to Turnberry Park have been ongoing subsequent the original plat approval for the neighborhood in 20o2. The process included a public engagement and multiple check-ins with the Parks and Natural Resources Commission (PNRC). During the process PNRC advised that staff complete additional research to evaluate the trail connection to Addison Alcove. That research concluded that the development, as it was built, included a sidewalk connection along Addison Alcove terminating at the entrance to the park and a gap of two developable lots, anticipating access to the park and parking along the open frontage. The research also showed that the trail would provide the desired connectivity to the greater city trail network, as outlined in the City of Woodbury Comprehensive Plan, August 2019, and the adopted City of Woodbury Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, August 2022. Engagement Summary Review Project process to date has included the following outreach and PNRC outreach: 1. Focus Group – Legends of Woodbury held June 15, 2022 2. Resident Letter #1 – August 12, 2022 – Notice of Open House 3. Open House – Initial Awareness held August 23, 2022 4. Online Survey completed August, 2022 5. PNRC Review of Upcoming Projects – September 6, 2022 6. PNRC Concept Review - October 4, 2022 7. PNRC Revised Concept Review - November 1, 2022 8. Resident Letter #2 – November 5, 2022 – Notice of Concept Approval The online survey highest-ranked amenities included: prairie restoration/pollinator habitat, connection to Legends of Woodbury, seating, and connection to Addison Alcove. While the connection to Addison Alcove provides increased access to the park, and was ranked as one of the high preferences in the online survey, this option received unfavorable responses within the online survey comments and by approximately five residents attending the project open house. Findings Subsequent research and further discussion with the PNRC concluded that the Addison Alcove connection is an important neighborhood connection, was suggested in the original plat for the development, creates neighborhood trail loop opportunities, and provides connectivity to the greater Citywide trail network. Recommendation Staff recommends the Parks and Natural Resources Commission’s further approval of the Turnberry Park project as presented. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 – 31 December 6, 2022 Page | 2 Respectfully submitted, /s/ Josh Kinney Parks Planner Attachment: Turnberry Park Concept Design Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 – 31 December 6, 2022 Page | 3 Turnberry Park Concept Design December 6, 2022  City of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 – 32 December 6, 2022 Eagle Valley Golf Course (EVGC) – Dan Moris The weather has turned and Eagle Valley is officially closed for the season. Even with a slow start in April, the golf course exceeded expectations with cooperative weather throughout the remainder of the season. The facility was extremely busy again this year, recording over 42,000 rounds of golf. As anticipated with the closing of the Ponds at Battle Creek, we gained some incremental revenue from our practice area. Financial results will again significantly out-perform budget predictions. Even though total rounds played will be lower than 2021, Eagle Valley will set another record for total annual revenue. Staff has transitioned from the whirlwind of the golf season to maintenance and planning for 2023. The maintenance staff is working through all the equipment to ensure it is properly maintained and ready for spring. Golf operations staff is working through the process to update printed materials, website and order merchandise for spring delivery. The banquet facility is still busy throughout the winter months, as groups host a variety of meetings and events at Eagle Valley. Recreation Division – Reed Smidt Registration for winter recreation programs began on Wednesday, Nov. 30. An abbreviated brochure was mailed to Woodbury households the week of November 20, with the full edition available online at woodburyrecreation.com. Popular favorites are back this winter including the New Year’s Matinee and the New Year’s Eve Family Celebration. New adaptive programs are also being offered this winter including Music Exploration and Craft and Social Hour. There were 27 art and craft vendors at the Central Park Art & Craft Fair held on Saturday, Nov. 12. This year’s event had several new vendors and was well attended. The St. Paul Police Band performed at Central Park on Sunday, Nov. 27, with approximately 100 people in attendance. Elizabeth Owens recently took a new position within the city as a Public Safety Specialist with the Public Safety Department. Although we are sad to lose Elizabeth to Public Safety, we are very excited for her to have this new opportunity and know she will continue to do great things for the community. With that, please welcome our new Recreation Program Specialist, Anna Kemper, to the parks and recreation team. Anna has worked as a summer recreation program assistant the past 4 years, and moved into her new role on November 28. Anna, with a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, will focus on youth, family and therapeutic recreation programs. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 22 – 32 December 6, 2022 Page 2 of 2 M Health Fairview Sports Center (MHFVSC) – Katie Ryden The outdoor refrigerated rink at the sports center opened for the season on November 21. In the short time since the rink opened, it has already proven to be a popular destination for people of all ages and we anticipate large numbers of skaters throughout the holiday season. The indoor ice arenas and field house are in peak season mode – hundreds of practices, league games and tournaments will be played over the coming weeks leading up to Christmas. There are two youth association hosted hockey tournaments and ten high school hockey games in the month of December. Registration for the winter and spring skating lessons opened on November 30, and several levels are already seeing high enrollment numbers. Special holiday events at the sports center include the Coke Caravan with Santa visit, a food drive on December 9, and the Recreation Division’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Michelle Okada Parks and Recreation Director