HomeMy WebLinkAbout12112007
City of Hastings
Parks & Recreation
Department
920 W 10th St.
Hastings, MN 55033
Ph: (651) 480-6175
Fax: (651) 437-5396
www.ci.hastings.mn.us
Aquatic Center
901 Maple St.
Hastings, MN 55033
Ph: (651) 480-2392
Fax: (651) 437-5396
Civic Arena
2801 Redwing Blvd.
Hastings, MN 55033
Ph: (651) 480-6195
Fax: (651) 437-4940
Natural Resources and Recreation Commission Agenda
CITY HALL - VOLUNTEER ROOM
Tuesday, December 11, 2007 - 6:00 PM
1) Call to Order:
2) Roll Call:
3) Approval of Minutes from October 2007:
4) Setting Agenda:
5) Open Mike:
TODics of Discussion:
6) Departmental Updates
7) Construction Updates
8) Eagle Bluff
9) Freitag Property Acquisition
10) Comp Plan Presentation to Council (Verbal)
11) New Business
- Mississippi River Observation Platform (Verbal)
- County Road 46/47 & Pleasant Trail Crossing (Verbal)
- Football Stadium (Verbal)
12) Old Business
- Joint Powers Agreement (Verbal)
- Levee Park Redevelopment
13) Next meeting: Tuesday, January 8, 2008
14) Adjourn:
All times are approximate
6: 00 PM
6:05 PM
6: 10 PM
6: 15 PM
6:20PM
6:25 PM
6:30 PM
6:35 PM
6:40 PM
6:45 PM
6: 50 PM
6:55 PM
NRRC/NRRC agenda for December 2007.doc
City of Hastings
Natural Resources and Recreation Commission Minutes
City Hall Volunteer Room
October 9, 2007 - 6:00 pm
1) Roll Call at 6 pm: Commissioners Miller, Nelson, Popp, Rohloff, Schommer, Vandehoef and Vaughan, Parks and
Recreation Director Bernstein, Superintendent Smith.
2) Approved August meeting minutes. Motion by POppe Seconded by Vandehoef Passed unanimously.
3) Setting Agenda: Bernstein added "Levee Park Construction" and "Trail Request" under New Business, and "Trail Lights"
under Old Business. The agenda item, "Freitag Property" was moved to Old Business. Motion to approve revised agenda
by Popp. Seconded by Schommer. Passed unanimously.
4) Departmental updates were passed out to the commissioners. A question was raised about the new sign at the Civic Arena
and its placement. The new sign will be moved so that it is higher and closer to the front, and therefore more visible. The
existing shrubs will be trimmed back and staff is talking to the city electrician about the possibility of lighting.
5) Joint PowerslBudget: A copy of the Joint Powers Agreement and the latest budget was distributed to the NRRC for their
review. The agreement was originally approved in 1973, with the latest revision having taken place in 2001. The agreement
includes all youth and adult recreational programs, including the Senior Center. Bernstein mentioned that Community
Education pays half of the cost of our warming house attendants, and that the school district recently agreed to pay 30% of
the cost of the new floor at the arena. Schommer referenced Article 7 regarding the 70/30 split of costs of capital
improvement projects, and asked if the school district paid 30% of the new bleachers at Vet's Park that went in 2-3 years
ago. Bernstein didn't remember for sure, but said that he doubted it. He doesn't believe the school district has paid 30% for
any of the capital improvement projects the city has done since he has been here. Either party can say that the project is not
ofhenefit to them when approached by the other side for a project, and therefore not participate. Bernstein cited a couple
of examples of times he had approached the school district for projects and had been turned down, i.e., the tennis court
repairs and the Kennedy ice rink. He also mentioned that the school district has funded some of their own projects, not
billing the city for 30%. These projects were the athletic fields at the new high school and the irrigation project at the
middle school. Bernstein wondered if the agreement is still beneficial to both parties, as it seems that we are each tending
to fund our own projects. Nelson questioned whether the Joint Powers Agreement was being followed anymore. Bernstein
commented that he feels there is selective use of the agreement. Vaughan believes that this agreement has been of benefit
to both parties and to the community, although he does question the necessity of the city paying player fees for athletic
leagues to Community Ed. Bernstein agreed that cooperation between the school district and the city is vital, and that the
new Park Comp Plan reflects that. Vaughan recommended that the NRRC continue to review the agreement and discuss it
further at a future meeting. Staff also mentioned that we have the 2nd highest league fees in Dakota County due to the
necessity of paying $26 per player to Community Ed. Bernstein also commented on the issue of private organizations
making money using public facilities. Vaughan stated that the City of Eagan had just made a policy which charges fees to
private organizations using public facilitiese
Schommer stated that although this agreement is clearly written down, it seems to be selectively used. He recommended
that the agreement be revisited to make sure it is still beneficial to both organizations. The NRRC requested that this topic
be added under "Old Business" at the November rneeting so that lhe agreement can be reviewed further. Bernstein invited
any NRRC members who are interested to join the Joint Powers Board.
6) Park Dedication Fees: Staff developed a spreadsheet showing what other surrounding communities charge in the way of
park dedication fees. Bernstein mentioned that since we haven't had any new development in town for quite a while, we
haven't been collecting any new park dedication fees. He explained that when the original plat is approved, the developer
pays the park dedication fees. So even if we see new homes being built in Hastings, we could have already collected that
money quite some time ago. Schommer stated that we are one of the cheapest in the area in terms of park dedication fees,
and that maybe this could be a draw to get more development in town. Bernstein commented that City Council recently
asked the Planning Director to review the city's park dedication fees for possible revision. He also mentioned that prior to
his arrival, the city was challenged by some local developers and actually lowered our park dedication fees. 'Vaughan
mentioned that Eagan does Park dedication and Trail dedication as two separate things, and that it works well. Bernstein
welcomes a discussion on separating our fees out like that. He stated that the Parks & Recreation Dept. maintains the trails
and that we are getting more involved with the development of new trails as well. Vaughan asked when the last time we
had a bond referendum for the parks was. There was a referendum for the pool, but it failed. So, park dedication money or
general revenue is what has been building new parks in the city. Bernstein commented that as our inventory ages, we may
have a difficult time maintaining the high standards which our residents have come to expect. He also mentioned that he
plans to hold quite a few more neighborhood park meetings next year to get residents involved. Vaughan emphasized the
need to look at future fmancing needs. Schommer mentioned that we may need to consider "naming rights" in order to
generate more revenue. Nelson agreed that we need to be creative with our funding and revenue options, but stressed the
need to look at long-term solutions. Once things are named, the revenue is gone. Vaughan agreed that we need to be
proactive rather than reactive. He asked how park facilities are doing in terms of maintenance. Smith commented that we
try to put maintenance items on a schedule and also plan for major items through the City's Equipment Revolving Fund
which is similar to a savings account. Staffhas a separate schedule that keeps track of the age and condition of playground
equipment. Park shelters are included with the annual Capital Improvement Plan. Vandehoef recommended sending out
short surveys to the community with the city's utility billing. A possible question for the survey could be about funding for
parks, trails, and open spaces and how willing the community would be to pass a referendum.
7) Facility Priority Use: Jared Flewellen passed out some information on the field rentals that have occurred so far this year.
A few highlights of the report that he shared with the NRRC are that Wilson Park had the most rentals through the month
of June, and that Conzemius Park had the most rentals total due to the fact that both softball and soccer can be played there..
50% of our field use is taken up by the HY AA traveling baseball and soccer - this figure includes both practices and
games. In this report, Jared defined a "rental" as a reserved use of a field. (The amount of time per reservation could vary.)
67% of total reservations came from HY AA; 11 % were from the Hastings Parks & Recreation Dept. As the population
grows, organizations such as the HY AA and the YMCA will be requesting more field time, and the available hours we
have to reserve fields is not getting any larger. Some groups are using fields, but not making a reservation fust. The high
school is one group that has done this. When Jared hears of a group using a field, he marks it down under "individual
rentals." Bernstein commented that one thing we could do to control that better is have the new soccer lights be on satellite
control. That way lights would only be on if the group had made a reservation. Smith mentioned that we also have a
problem sometimes with groups reserving the fields and then not actually using them. Jared also explained that groups
request specific fields based on their individual needs. This is helpful for our maintenance staff as it lessens the time spent
moving bases for different uses, etc. Use in August is low due to the fact that the summer season is ending, but the fall
season hasn't really started. This report just focuses on athletic use of fields. Other programs like PITS were not included.
Conzemius has very high use due to the ability to have both baseball and soccer running simultaneously. It is also the area
where we receive the most complaints from the neighborhood, mostly due to parking issues. Due to the parking limitations,
staff decided not to run soccer and baseball at the same time there, and this has reduced the amount of complaints received.
HY AA does a nice job of trying to vary the fields they use as well.
The report shows a dramatic increase in field reservations this year. In 2005, there were 1,418, 2006 had 1,455, and in
2007, the estimated amount is currently at 2,105. Bernstein said that this increase could partly be due to the fact that we
have been able to track reservations better this year. Another contributing factor could be the fact that the middle school
facilities have been closed for maintenance. However, he doesn't feel that we will be seeing a decrease in field use in the
future. Vaughan asked if we were resting fields. Smith explained that last year, we were able to rest one of the soccer
fields, but this year we haven't been able to due to high use.
Vaughan asked the NRRC to think about revising our field priority use policy due to the high demands being placed on our
facilities, and the expectation that these demands will remain high. This issue will be tabled until the next NRRC meeting.
8) New Business
Levee Park Construction: Bernstein has a meeting with Council, HRA, and the EDC to discuss downtown
development. He is planning to ask how viable the Levee Park master plan is now that blocks 1 & 2 aren't selling.
For example, does the promenade need to go all the way down to Tyler St.? If we eliminate the performance area,
does the trail need to be moved as the plan indicates? Finally, should more attention be given to park entrances to
really try to draw people from 2nd and even 4th Streets? Miller asked if this park is still a priority - Maybe we need
to devote more attention to our athletic facilities? Bernstein said that this is a gateway park and affects visitors' fIrst
impressions ofIIastings. Commissioner Vaughan recommended asking if the plans for Levee Park could be put into
the NRRC's hands so that it can be prioritized with other park requests and the system as a whole.
Trail Request: Diana Anderson, a resident who lives near Sunny Acres Park, emailed a request to staff for a trail
extension through the park. She requested that the current trail be extended from Malcolm Ave. to Cory Ln. to
provide handicapped accessibility to the park. Smith believes the department can target this request next year when
we plan to make the playground ADA compliant as well by adding new curbing and playground fall protection.
Vaughan asked if there are any grade issues and was told that the area is fairly flat. Nelson questioned the wisdom of
adding many short trails to the city's system, although he added that this trail does have a destination and seems to
make sense. Smith mentioned that we have already requested budget dollars next year to make more of our parks
ADA compliant, and that this trail could possibly be done in-house to minimi7:e cost. The NRRC decided to revisit
this topic in November where the request will be prioritized using the NRRC's evaluation form.
9) Old Business
Eagle Bluff: Bernstein reviewed the actions taken regarding the Eagle Bluffneighborhood's request for a basketball
court. The NRRC agreed to not move forward until the association completes the Park Improvement Request form
and evidence is submitted that this is a project that is supported by the majority of the neighborhood. Staffwill
attempt to verify this request and will bring it forward again when a response is received.
Construction Updates: Bernstein mentioned that the City received a Supplemental Environmental Program grant of
$50,000 to remove the old fueling dock station on the Mississippi River and replace it with an overlook. The paint is
currently being tested to see if it contains lead and structural engineers have been consulted. We have a preliminary
drawing of the project which was done by Hoisington Koegler Group a few years ago. Before the project moves
forward, the architect and engineer would meet with the NRRC.
Trail Lights: The trail lights along the Levee trail are being replaced by Public Works. Initially, we thought that the
poles were going to be made out of wood. But staff has found a better alternative - a steel pole with a marine-type
lens. The lights are similar to the ones on Lock & Dam Rd. The cost is about the same as the other style and they
should be installed this fall.
Freitag Property: The City received a $75,000 SEP grant for the purchase/maintenance of the Freitag property.
Director Bernstein is meeting with the Parks & Recreation Committee of Council on Monday the 15th to discuss this
project further. Commissioner RoWoff asked about hunting on the property. Director Bernstein replied that this will
be the major topic at his meeting on Monday due to the ordinance that there is no discharge offrreanns within city
limits. A modification may be possible however. There is also a possible land swap with the sand coulee area. Staff
is not able to give the sand coulee the attention it deserves. If this area is designated a WMA, there are to be no hard-
surface trails. Director Bernstein feels trail access is neces~ary in order to get our residents to support the project.
Commissioner Popp stated that the proposal now states that 12 of the area would be designated an Aquatic
Management Area, and that we can put trails in that area. Director Bernstein invited any interested NRRC members
to attend the meeting on Monday.
Park Comp Plan: The NRRC was mailed disks of the proposed Park Comp Plan. Natural preservation is a main
focus in the plan. There will be one final Open House at City Hall on Wednesday, 10/24 from 6:00-7:30 pm before
this plan goes before City Council. The attendance at the last open house was poor, so staff wants to give the public
one more chance to give input. Director Bernstein encouraged the NRRC to attend to show citizens that the plan has
the NRRC's support. Commissioner Popp felt that the plan was very well done - it is very comprehensive and
focuses on goals and demographics well. He also appreciated the use of trails, green space, and more passive
recreational areas.
Commissioner Miller asked if the Freitag property has City Council support and was told that Council is very
supportive of this project. Director Bernstein also mentioned that the current WMA is fairly small and with the
development surrounding it, it isn't ideal. Commissioner Vaughan asked if this area would be a destination. Director
Bernstein explained that it is a potential trail corridor that would connect to the Hastings to Red Wing trail.
Commissioner Schommer asked about putting a dog park on this property? Director Bernstein explained that the
proposed plan would put a dog park at C.P. Adams Park.
Commissioner Vaughan recommended asking HY AA to send out an email to their participants inviting them to the
open housee
Next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 13th, 2007 at City Hall.
Adjourned at 8:11 p.m.
Minutes submitted by: Kristin Behrens
City of Hastings
Parks & Recreation
Departnlent
920 \\' 10th S1.
Hastings, MN" 55033
Ph: (651) 480-6175
Fax: (651) 437-5396
Vvw\v"ci .hastings.mn.us
Aquatic Center
901 ..Maple St. ,
Hastings, MN. 55033
Ph: (651) 480-2392
Fax: (651)437-5396
Civic Arena
2801.Red"ving Blvd.
-Hastings, MN. 55033
'ph: (651) 480-6195
Fax: (651) 437-4940
Natural Resources and Recreation Commission
Departmental Updates - November, 2007
Parks Maintenance Activities
· The project at Lake Isabel is wrapping up. The new curbing is in place and
bituminous is going in this week. Sidewalks will be completed and dormant grass
seeding done before winter. We have recently met with the DNR in regards to the
floating pier. The 60-foot gangway has been delivered to the site and will be
installed along with the pier next spring.
· Lions shelter construction is fmished. The bottle fillers were the last items to be
installed.
· New park signs and landscaping was completed by maintenance staff at Eagle
Bluff, Sunny Acres, Conzemius, and the Civic Arena.
· A tree was donated by Paul Hallberg and planted at Vennillion Falls Park.
· Winterizing is completed at all park facilities.
· Veteran's AtWetic Complex is closed for the season.
· Our staff spent additional time working with the Engineering Department on the
street reconstruction project in regards to tree evaluation, removal and
replacements.
· Our department coordinated with Public Works on plans for this year's snow
removal. All Parks Department staff members are prepared for clearing snow from
designated trails, sidewalks, and parking lots.
Youth First
· F or Homecoming 2007, the youth on the advisory council for Hastings Youth
First were very interested in an effort to remember the lives of the youth lost in
traffic-related deaths. A public safety announcement was pulled together and
played during the week of homecoming at HHS. Bracelets with safety messages
were for sale at lunch hour and the Homecoming game.
· The 2007 Community Halloween Party was a huge success with over 600 children
plus parents, easily totaling 1,000, in attendance. We collaborated with Hastings
YMCA, and took in donations over $2,395.00 along with prizes, gift certificates
and food. There was no admission charge other than a donation to Hastings
Family Service. We received over 575 pounds of food and cash donations of
$327.00.
Recreation
· As of today, we have 5 teams participating in our Men's Basketball League.
· Registration for Men's Outdoor Hockey and Co-Rec and Men's Outdoor
Broomball will be taking place November 19-December 14. All games are
scheduled to be held at Lions Park.
Warmina Houses
· Interviews for warming house attendants were held on November 7th.
· We will be operating all rinks and warming houses this year, including Kennedy.
Civic Arena
· Both sheets of ice are up and running for the season.
· The sound system was installed during the week of October 29th.
· A new sign was installed in front of the arena.
City of Hastings
Parks & .Recreation
.Department
920 W 10th St.
Hastings, MN 55033
Ph: (65.1) 480-6175
Fax: (651) 437-5396
ww\v.ci.hastings.mn.us
Aquatic Center
90 1 Maple St.
Hastings,MN 55033
Ph: (651) 480-2392
Fax: (651) 437-5396
Civic Arena
2801.RedwingBlvd.
Hastings; MN55033
Ph: (651) 480-6195
Fax: (651) 437-4940
MEMO
Date: 11/8/07
To:
NRRC Commission Members
From:
Barry Bernstein, Parks and Recreation Director
Subject:
Eagle Bluff
Back2round Information:
As we have discussed the Eagle Bluff neighborhood request for a possible
addition of a ~ court basketball court at eagle Bluff Park, the NRRC has asked
me to contact the neighborhood association representative to complete the park
improvement request form. The Eagle Bluff representative completed the
request form via an email (see attached). In addition, I requested from the
representative to also forward me minutes or documentation from a meeting in
which this proposal was discussed. He did forward me this information (see
attached)
Action:
1. Honor their request to insert a ~ court basketball court at this location
2. Do not insert a 'is court basketball court at this park
REF: Park dedication fee and structure 1 2006
Eagle Bluffs HOA - Annual Meeting
MINUTES 8/10/06 7:20PM
EDINA REALTY OFFICES
HASTINGS, MN
Annual HOA Meeting
Bridget Sutter, Affinity Midwest
Bridget Sutter, Affinity Midwest
Dave Fields, Dirk Larson, Karen Radke, Don Budach, John Ahrens, Bridget Sutter (Affinity
See in sheet for Homeowner Attendance
Agenda topics
Location Changes:
Due to conflicting information on the date of the reservation at the Pleasant
Library the meeting was moved to Green Mill, where it was discovered that the
space reserved would not be sufficient to conduct a meeting, Karen Radke was
able to get a meeting space at the Edina Realty offices in Hastings.
Welcome/Roll Call:
The meeting was officially called to order at 7:20 pm.
Proof of notice of meeting or waiver of notice:
Keller Property Management mailed out notices to all homeowners the week of
July 10th
Reading of minutes of preceding meeting:
The 2005 Annual Meeting Minutes were read and approved
Report of Officers:
John Ahrens gave an overview of what the Board had accomplished over the
past year - including landscaping projects, and committee formations.
Report of Committees:
Website COlTllTlittee - website will be updated after meeting with current
BOD information. Homeowners are encouraged to visit www.eaglebluffs.org for
updated information about the association and events
Social COll7l11ittee- The social committee has the following events planned:
9/16 - Golf Scramble
9/17 - Block Party at the Park, to begin at 4 pm, there was discussion of a
possible food drive to be held as part of this event.
The Social Committee encourages homeowners to share their thoughts and
ideas, please call Stacey Ahrens or Karen Radke or email
socia I@eag lebl uffs. org.
Newsletter COlTIlTlittee - Due to scheduling there was no August newsletter
published. Dave would gladly accept any assistance with the production of the
newsletter, as his schedule is filling up with other projects. If you would be
interested in participating on the Newsletter Committee please contact him at
dave@eaglebl uffs. org.
Audit COll1l11ittee - The committee audited the financial records kept by
Keller Property Management and found many errors in the bookkeeping,
although nothing to reflect that there was any money missing. Due to this and
lack of response from KPM the BOD made the decision to hire Affinity Midwest
as the Property Manager for the Association. Bridget Sutter of Affinity has been
aware of the current issues within the association and the BOD is confident that
she will do an excellent job. A month to month contract was signed so that the
Board may evaluate the service with minimal commitment. Bids were received
from 4 other companies before a decision was made.
Election of Officers:
Nominations were made and a vote took place. The nominees were Brenda
Van Vossen, Craig Santleman, Jim Kummer, Jason Berzinski and Mark Hokan
(declined nomination). After counting of the ballots by Bridget Sutter and Joe
Drexler it was announced that Jim Kummer and Jason Berzinski would replace
Don Budach and Dirk Larson on the Board of Directors. Positions will be
determined at the next Board meeting.
Unfinished Business:
Irrigation at the monument- The Board gave the okay to have Southview
install an addition to the system at The Smiths's residence. However, due to
complications with the permit process no work has commenced. Jason
Berzinski will contact a vendor to get information on a stand alone system.
Bridget of Affinity Midwest will contact another vendor for a quote on the
addition to the current system, due to lack of response from Southview Design.
It was noted that there is a warranty on the plants that were put planted in
May and that they would be replaced.
Eagle Bluffs Park - Discussion ensued with regards to the options for the
neighborhood park. Jim Kummer attended the Hastings Park Board Meeting in
August and gave a summary of what was discussed as options for Eagle Bluffs.
Picnic shelter, Shrubs along the sides of the property, Steps down the bluff to
the river (denied), basketball court. After much discussion among those
present at the annual meeting the BOD took a vote of the homeowners and it
was voted to persue a Y2 court basketball hoop with no lighting. The next
Hastings Park Board meeting will be September 12. Please contact Affinity
Midwest for more information.
New Business:
Motion was made to limit possible assessments to $200 and to have a vote of
800/0 of homeowners for anything over that amount. Issue was tabled for
further discussion due to time constraints on the meeting space.
Motion was made to allocate up to $1000 for the hiring of an attorney to
review the issue with maintenance responsibility of the cul-de-sacs - motion
for budgeting was approved, further discussion to take place at next meeting
Motion was made to have a public site for posting complaints/concerns
anonymously - motion was denied.
Announcement of date, time, and place of organizational meeting of new
Board of Directors:
Wednesday, September 13th, 7pm at Karen Radke's
Adjournment:
Meeting adjourned at 8:41 pm
Page 1 of 1
Kristin Behrens
From: Barry Bernstein
Sent: Thursday, November 08,2007 10:59 AM
To: Kristin Behrens
Subject: FW: Eagle Bluffs
Attachments: RE Eagle Bluffs park progress .msg
Please add this email and attachment to the nrrc packet.
Thanks!
Barry Bernstein
Parks and Recreation Director
City of Hastings
920 W. 10th street
Hastings, MN 55033
P) 651-480-6176 Fax) 651-437-5396
bbemstein@ci.hastings.mn.us
"We are working hard, so you can play"
-----Original Message-----
Fro m: Jason. Berzinski [ma ilto: Jason. Berzinski@target.com]
Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2007 8:56 AM
To: Barry Bernstein
Cc: Jason.Berzinski; Caflisch, Andrew; directors@eaglebluffs.<?rg
Subject: Eagle Bluffs
'Barry,
My name is Jason Berzinski and I am currently the Vice President of the Eagle Bluffs Home Owner Association (EBHOA). Dave
Field is no longer the President of EBHOA; Jim Kummer has been in this roll for the past year. Last Sunday at our annual p,icnic
.Mrs. Caflisch gave me a letter from you-dated August 22, 2007 concerning EBHOA request for a basketball court (1/2 court). On
-behalf of EBHOA I will be filling out the NRRC Park Improvement Request Information as requested in the letter and also following
the progress of the request.
NRRC Park Improvem_snt Request InformatiQn
1) Jason Berzinski, 1435 Riverbluff Dr. Hastings, MN. 55033
2) Eagle Bluff Park
3) Install a half court basketball court
. 4) At one of the.first-meetings between Hastings Park Department and EBHOA the Parks Department had given the
EBHOA several choices to improve_the ,area just north. of the existing play structures. E-BHOA has decided that it would
have the most benefit from a half courtba,sketball area.
5) System Improvements; #1 - Safety, reduces. the amount of. kids playing in the streets and givi-ng them a safe spot to play.
#2 - Park Improvement, the-half court ,^,_ingive additional options to people while v-isiting the park.
6) Eagle Bluffs Home Owner Association
7) There will not be any contribution provided by EBHOA.
,If finial approval is given, what would_ the timing of the project be? If the NR'RC needs any addltion- information please contact
me.
Thanks,
Jason Berzinski
C - 612-396-5202
H - 651-480-3573
Jason.Berzinski@Target.com
11/9/2007
Page 1 of 4
Kristin Behrens
From:
Jason.Berzinski
Sent: Wednesday, August 01, 2007 8:45 AM
To: Barry Bernstein
Cc: Caflisch, Andrew; Jason.Berzinski
Subject: RE: Eagle Bluffs park progress~..
Attachments: Updates sort of.msg
Barry ,
Thanks for continuing your efforts in Eagle Bluffs park improvement projects. Could you please help me out. I am a little confused
the progress that is being made with the half court~ Eagle Bluffs home owner's association works with Affinity Property
Management. At our monthly board meetings I ask Bridget with Affinity for an update on the basketball court, the poor turf
conditions and dead trees on Riverdale DR. I consistently get an excuse on why she does not have an update. Per my last
request she stated that we would get the court this spring but she would have a definite answer by 8/14/07 for our annual
association meeting. Per your below email you state that you need to review the request with the NRRC on the 14th. Could you
please let me know if you and Bridget have had discussions on the basketball court and where are we actually at in the process of
getting the half court?
Also, some home owners have discussed cleaning up the dead trees and brush on the bluff behind the park. Would you happen
to know who would be our contact to get approval for this work?
Thanks,
Jason Berzinski
From: Barry Bernstein [mailto:BBernstein@ci.hastings.mn.us]
Sent: Wednesday, August 01, 2007 7:42 AM
To: Caflisch, Andrew
Cc: Jason.Berzinski
Subject: RE: Eagle Bluffs park progress...
Andrew and Jason,
Thank you for fOlWarding me this emaiL Once again, I have to apologize if you previously sent this email to me. I
could not find this emaiI electronically or in my Eagle Bluff File. OUf next NRRC. meeting is August 14th and I will
bring this issue fOlWard.
Barry Bernstein
Parks and Recreation Director
City of Hastings
920 W. 10th street
Hastings, MN 55033
P) 651-480-6176 Fax) 651-437-5396
bbemstein@etb_a$Jiogs.mn.us
"We are working hard, so you can play"
-----Original Message-----
From: Caflisch, Andrew [mailto:acaflisc@sowashco.k12.mn.us]
Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2007 3:59 PM
To: Barry Bernstein
Cc: Jason.Berzinski
Subject: FW: Eagle Bluffs park progress...
Barry ,
11/9/2007
City of Hastings
Parks & 'Recreation
Depart.ment
920 W lOth St.
Hastings, :MN 55033
Ph: (65.1) 480-6175
Fax: (651) 437-5396
WW\v. ci .hastings.mn. us
Aquatic Center
901.M'aple St.
Hastings, MN 55033
Ph: (65.1) 480-2392
Fax: (651) 437-5396
Civic Arena
2801 Redwing Blvd.
Hastings, MN 55033
Ph: :(651) 480~6195
Fax: (651 )437-4940
MEMO
Date: 11/8/07
To:
NRRC Commission Members
From:
Barry Bernstein, Parks and Recreation Director
Subject:
Freitag Property purchase update
Backt!round Information:
I, along with members of the Parks and Recreation Committee of Council and
the City Administrator have been in discussions with Al Singer, Dakota
County Farmland and Natural Areas, Tom Lewanski, Friends of the
Mississippi River and representatives from the DNR about a possible
coordinated purchase of the Freitag property for conservation purposes.
At our last meeting with City and representatives I have mentioned above,
there was a proposal of land use plans from the DNR was distributed (see
attached). From this meeting, the Parks and Recreation Committee of Council
asked for me to seek additional information and answer some questions
relating to Wildlife management areas, firearm (including archery) discharge
and overall management. I have included this information for your review.
I am seeking opinion/recommendation from the NRRC to recommend to the
City Council if the City should continue to entertain the idea of modifying the
current city ordinance of not allowing discharge of firearms withi.n city limits
and two, if the City should further negotiate this land purchase for conservation
purposes?
REF: Frietag property recommendation 1 2007
Freitag Property I Near Gores Pool WMA
:\.
..~-Are3 A Des ign.a.te as Sta:te W ~dlife Management Ales - AUow smangame
and migrs.tOfY ,bird hunting by s hotgu:n with fine s:hot. AII:ow dee
srch@y. s tf8(g~J~~nd muzzleloada h un:ting .Ni.th special peI'mit and
reQu i"ed or ientation ,
A
90 0 90 180 M eteD$'
~
L.....~,............J Area B Des ignate as State Aquatic Management Area -NoH'u:nti;ng or Trapping.
Tim Bremicker
.//-~
City of Hastings
Parks & Recreation
Department
920 W lOth St.
liastings, MN 55033
Ph: (651) 480-6175
Fax: (651)437-5396
ww\v.cLhastings.mn. us
Aquatic Cellter
901 MapleSt.
Hastings,MN.55033
Ph: (651)480-2392
Fax: (651) 437-5396
Civic^r~l1a
2801 Redwing131vd. _
Hastings,MN_55033-
Ph: (651) 480-6195
Fax: (651)437-4940
MEMO
Date:
10/29/07
To:
Parks and Recreation Cormnittee of Council
Dave Osberg, City Administrator
From:
Barry Bernstein, Parks and Recreation Director
Subject:
Freitag Property Report
I have compiled additional information regarding our potential City involvement with
the Freitag property purchase. I attempted to address your questions and concerns
regarding this issue from our previous meeting that was held on October 15th, 2007.
On the morning of Monday, October 29, I met with AI Singer to further discuss the
role and outcomes of this collaborative effort. My meeting notes and discussion with
Mr. Singer are included in this information.
Questions and Answers from meeting recap of October 15 as indicated on an email to
all of you:
If the City decides not to amend the current ordinance to allow for some firearm
discharge within City limits, what is the financial impact?
According to Mr. Singer, there would be a likelihood of a reduction for funding for the
purchase of this property by the DNR. He could only speculate on the amount of the
reduced financial cormnitment, but Mr. Singer speculates there could be a reduction as
much as $150,000. This would leave a possible hole of approximately $250,000.
How interested is the DNR in managing and owning this property if the current
ordinance is not amended?
According to Mr. Singer, the DNR would still be interested in owning this property as
part of the WMA to the east. In addition, the DNR is interested in controlling the
access to the Freitag property and the WMA to the east.
If funding does fall short due to the City not amending the current City
ordinance of allowing discharge of firearms, is the City prepared to fill the
possible financial gap of $150-200,000?
I am not is a position to answer this question as I feel this is a question for the City
Council to direct City staff.
Mr. Singer did mention that a fmal purchase appraisal would not be completed until a
cormnitment to the project is completed by all parties. The cormnitment would
include an arrangement by the City and DNR that both parties would agree to a
partnership. As part of the partnership, an agreement to the allowable hunting, City
trail access and overall access should be agreed to and finalized prior to Mr. Signer
authorizing and paying for a fmalland appraisal.
What is the best use of the SEP Funding?
In my discussion with Mr. Singer, since it is unclear what the final purchase price of
the property will be, the City has some flexibility on what is the best use of our grant
funding.
It has been discussed that a possible parking lot would be constructed to accommodate
the potential hunters. At our meeting on October 15th, this lot could be dual use for
trail users. It is a possibility to supply some funding for the construction of this lot?
In addition, this funding could be used to close a possible gap in land purchase
funding and/or invasive species control or other maintenance related issues. The only
stipulation of the use of the grant funding is that we must use it by June 30, 2008. A
purchase agreement or other agreements on the property/management/construction
would be satisfactory with the SEP Committee.
Tom LewaDski aDd AI Singer will discuss the property purchase with
neighborhood residents aDd report back to Barry Bernstein.
Tom and AI will be conducting a meeting on Tuesday, October 30. In my meeting
with AI Singer today, Mr. Singer indicated in his conversations with land owners in
close relationship to this property was that there are no major issues. One land owner
wishes to have a 500 foot buffer from his property and the hunting area and other
neighborhood residents feel the purchase price for the Freitag property could affect
their assed value of their property?
AI Singer and Barry Bernstein will meet to discuss all options and scenarios.
AI and I did meet and my notes from our meeting are incorporated throughout this
information.
Barry will present trail ideas and locations to AI Singer.
I did forward to AI Singer the draft portion of the Comp Park Plan relating to the
possible trail connection in this area. From Mr. Singer's perspective, the trail concept
would be manageable with the DNR.
Barry will contact some other communities who also have WMA property within
city limits.
I researched other WMA locations that are located with in a given community. I have
enclosed information for your review. I also contacted two communities, the City of
Chanhassen and the City of Champlin. I spoke with Todd Hoffman, Director of Parks
and Recreation, City of Chanhassen. Here is a brief synopsis of our conversation:
· Mr. Hoffman said the relationship with the DNR is wonderful.
· Raguet WMA is 270 acres small shot for upland birds and archery for deer
hunting only
· Mr. Hoffman in his 25 plus years with the City of Chanhassen has received no
citizen complaints regarding the WMA located within the City of Chanhassen.
· The Raguet WMA is exempt from the frrearm ordinance for the City of
Chanhassen. I have included the ordinance for your review.
· This property is managed by the DNR. I did not pursue the ownership of the
property.
· No ATV use is allowed in the Raguet WMA
· Mr. Hoffman mentioned that he believes the Raguet WMA is a complement to
the overall parks system and management plan.
I have not received a reply back from the City of Champlin as of yet.
Other related information:
The southern WMA that boarders the City of Hastings is being considered for re-
designation by the DNR. Mr. Singer explained the process for re-designation of State
property is that other State agencies have a priority to bid on the property. Mr. Signer
mentioned he has heard that the veterans Administration is interested in a portion of
the southern WMA property to possibly build low income housing for veterans. He
further mentioned to me that another proposal being considered is making parts of the
southern WMA into another protected classification and allowing the City of Hastings
to obtain the remaining portion. Mr. Singer felt whatever happens; the southern
WMA will not be a WMA in the very near future.
I had an opportunity to meet with Police Chief Mike McMenomy. I have included his
comments in this memo and an email correspondence.
In our conversation, the Hastings Police Department would accept fine shot use and
archery for larger game. Mike did mention he would not appose to a limited 3-4 day
hunt with special permit using shotgun or muzzle loader weapon.
During our conversation, Mike did like how the City of Chanhassen (Raguet WMA)
phrases their hunting restriction language.
"Firearm hunting is restricted to shotgun with fme shot only. Deer hunting is allowed
by archery only and in only designated areas during established hunting seasons". I
have included information about the Raguet WMA for your review.
Other information enclosed:
· DNR information about Wildlife Management Areas
· County listing ofWMA locations/acceptable hunting and restrictions
· City ordinances froIll CllanIlassel1, Cllalllplul arId Carver
· WMA Detail report from DNR on Raquet, Sclnnidt WMA and Bayport WMA
I hope you fmd this information beneficial. Please feel free to contact me if you have
any questions, concerns or you would like me to research additional information.
As a reminder, we have scheduled a Parks and Recreation Committee of Council
meeting for Monday, November jth at 6PM City Hall to discuss this issue.
Respectfully submitted: Barry Bernstein, Director, Parks and Recreation
City of Hastings
Parks & 'Recreation
Department
920 W lOth St.
llastings, MN 55033
Ph: (65.1) 480-6175
Fax: (651)437-5396
W\V\v .cLhastings.mn. us
Aquatic Center
901 Maple 8t.
Hastings, .MN 55033
Ph:(~51J480-2392
-F-ax: (651)-437-5396
Civic _Arena
2801 RedwingBlvd.
Hastings;MN55033
Ph: (65l}480-6195
-Fax: {651j4374940
MEMO
Date: 11/8/07
To:
NRRC Commission Members
From:
Barry Bernstein, Parks and Recreation Director
Subject:
Levee Park Redevelopment
Backg:round Information:
I, along with Council member Alongi, Slavik, City Administrator, John
Hinzman, City Planner, John Grossman, HRA Director and members from the
HRA and EDe have been meeting to discuss downtown and other related
projects within our community. One topic of conversation has been Levee
Park and surrounding developments.
How Levee Park relates to future development in downtown and along the
river is that there is an understanding in this group that if improvements are
made to the surrounding HRA property (Block 1,2 and 3), then there may be
more interest in future development. In addition to the park itself, there have
been discussions on the entrance to the park from Sibley and Tyler Streets.
Also there has been ongoing discussions on a "Market Square" concept to have
activities and parking in one spot.
No action required
REF: Levee Park update 1 2007