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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPARC Agenda Packet 10-5-26CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS Regular Meeting of the Parks & Recreation Commission City Hall 2077 West Larpenteur Avenue AGENDA October 5, 2026 at 6:30 P.M. A. CALL TO ORDER: B.ROLL CALL:Chuck Long (Chair)____ Robert Haight (Vice Chair)____ Jerry Buckridge (Secretary)_____Tom Faust ____Katie Merriam _____Kia Moua _____ Naomi Loud - Heinsch_____ COUNCIL LIAISON:Randy Gustafson ____ STAFF PRESENT:Kelly Nelson_____ C.PRESENTATION: D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:1.September 2, 2026 – Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes E.AGENDA:1.Introduction to Anna Springer of Bolton & Menk2.Continued Discussion Regarding the Vision of Future Parkland at Les Bolstad Development F.INFORMATION/ANNOUNCEMENT G.ADJOURNMENT: BLANK PAGE  1 | Page CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS Special Meeting of the Parks & Recreation Commission City Hall 2077 West Larpenteur Avenue MINUTES September 2, 2026 at 6:30 P.M. A. CALL TO ORDER: 6:32 P.M. B. ROLL CALL: Tom Faust (Vice-Chair) __X___Katie Merriam __X___Kia Moua __ea___ (excused absence) Robert Haight__X___ Jerry Buckridge__X___Naomi Loud - Heinsch__X___ Chuck Long__X___ COUNCIL LIAISON: Randy Gustafson __ea__ STAFF PRESENT: Kelly Nelson__X___ C. PRESENTATION: D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: 1. August 3, 2026 – Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes Long motioned to approve the minutes; approved 6-0 E. AGENDA: 1. Fall/Winter Programming Discussion 6:30 P.M. 2. Election to Fill Existing Commission Vacancies 6:50 P.M. 3. Continued Discussion Regarding the Vision of Future Parkland at Les Bolstad Development 7:00 P.M. 4. Staff Direction Regarding Community Park Donation 7:45 P.M. 5. Upcoming Event(s) Discussion 8:00 P.M 1. Fall/Winter Programming Discussion Faust asked if pizza would be in the budget as part of another game night. Loud-Heinsch wondered if there was an indoor space available for an open gym. Nelson responded that the commission had interest in an open gym before to be held at Falcon Heights Elementary, but with dismal attendance at the last game night at City Hall, the commission moved away from holding additional events. The commission could pursue that idea again. She continued that St. Anthony Police Department holds a Cops vs. Kids basketball game every year in February, and, one, we could see if we could have more representation with Falcon Heights kids on the team, or show more support by publicizing the event in the mailed newsletter. Lastly, Nelson reminded the commissioners that there had been prior support to reach out to Gibbs Farm to see if they would handle holding a class if the City provided the space. 2 | Page Long suggested having consistency and continuity in the schedule of events so residents could anticipate what events would occur. Faust felt that Friday evenings worked well to hold game nights. Commissioners showed support for staff selecting a date in November to hold a game night and for an open gym. Staff was asked if SAPD would be open to attending open gym night and just shooting baskets with families. Haight wondered if it would make sense to hold a joint meeting with the Community Engagement Commission to plan the open gym with SAPD. Faust added that there might be potential to hold another programmatic event if Gibbs Farm has a canned activity and needs a space during the winter. This item was for discussion purposes, and no motion was needed. Haight asked a question about Fall Fest activities, so Nelson asked commissioners if they minded amending the agenda order to move agenda item #5, Upcoming Event(s) Discussion, to item #2, which would cover discussion of Fall Fest. The commission supported this amendment. 2. Upcoming Event(s) Discussion Nelson outlined the activities that would return to Fall Fest, and also asked the commission for guidance on what to do with some components of the canceled Ice Cream Social event such as a resource fair and the live band. Additional guidance was sought due to the fact that the Community Park playground construction should wrap up during a similar period of time. Long felt it best to leave Fall Fest as it is and not try to make it an Ice Cream Social. Loud-Heinsch supported postponing a ribbon-cutting at Community Park until spring, when the park is 100% ready. Haight supported adding the band who typically performs at Ice Cream Social to Fall Fest and also felt it was important to support Karol Coffee, even as a cost. Loud-Heinsch and Merriam suggested buying coffee in bulk or brewed from Karol Coffee as a way to support a local business, while also saving the City money. This item was for discussion purposes, and no motion was needed. 3. Election to Fill Existing Commission Vacancies 3 | Page Nelson explained that the commission currently had two vacancies to fill, but in case there was movement within the acting Vice Chairperson title holder, all three positions were described. Faust stated that they preferred not to be the Chairperson and asked Long if they would consider acting as Chair. Buckridge nominated Long as Chairperson and moved to approve him. Motion carried 6-0 to elect Chuck Long as Chairperson. Faust nominated Haight as Vice Chairperson and moved to approve him. Motion carried 6-0 to elect Bob Haight as Vice Chairperson. Haight nominated Buckridge as Secretary and moved to approve him. Motion carried 6-0 to elect Jerry Buckridge as Secretary. . 4. Continued Discussion Regarding the Vision of Future Parkland at Les Bolstad Development Commissioners resumed discussion of their vision of parkland within the Les Bolstad development. Haight stated he would like to make recommendations related to the number of, the size of, the location of, and the shape of the park(s). Merriam said she would like to use the bike baths proposed within the development, but she lives nearby. She reasoned that others may not and that she doesn’t want it to be old Falcon Heights vs. new Falcon Heights. She added that offering a different amenity from either Falcon Heights’ or Lauderdale’s Community Parks might encourage visitors. Faust shared with commissioners a map that he’d made of how one could bike from Curtiss Field to the golf course, riding through the fairgrounds, through the Grove, and under Larpenteur. Faust is concerned about trees being removed from a parcel nearest the Grove, and highlighted the importance of this area. Buckridge said that, unfortunately, that parcel is proposed to have a nursing home and multi-level building constructed on it. Long encouraged the commission to make it clear from the start what its non-negotiables are or its insisted-upon items so that we don’t get down the road in the process and be told, “we can’t do that now.” Buckridge raised the question of what the one-for-one tree replacement would truly look like, since a five-gallon tree would not be valued the same as the existing 150+ years old oak trees by residents. At this point in the meeting, Andrew Dresdner, Senior Urban Designer of Bolton & Menk, Inc. stopped by the meeting to provide a brief update on what the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) has been working on, the development process, and to answer questions to better aid commissioners in identifying its values and developing its mission statement. Dresdner asked, “How can we define the moment (aspirations of the City) and allow the developer to come up with a plan and meet the moment?” What are aspirations for the park on this site? What does the park need for this development? The City is already at a park deficit. 4 | Page Should this site try to make up for it and go above and beyond? He encouraged commissioners to consider the number, size, shape, and locations of the park(s), and whether they are active or passive. Haight wondered what we will seek from the public at their next opportunity for input and suggested providing an update to them since there is confusion amongst residents. Dresdner shared examples of values and advised commissioners to identify their values as part of the Parks and Rec Commission’s October meeting to help guide the CAC. 5. Staff Direction Regarding Community Park Donation At the conclusion of the Parks and Rec Commission’s August meeting, Staff was directed to obtain a bid to resurface the basketball court and to explore refurbishing specific components of the workout equipment in Community Park. Nelson shared that one bid to resurface the basketball court is $27,500. Painting the court might add another $2,000 in expense. Nelson showed replacement parts, mostly consisting of sit-up benches and the like, would total approximately $10,000. The commissioners discussed whether the basketball hoops and backboards needed replacement. Loud-Heinsch felt that if the Lions wanted to attract younger membership, redoing the basketball court makes sense as their showcased donation. Commissioners directed Staff to price together all park replacement parts and present to the Lions. Information/Announcement Before adjournment, Haight asked commissioners if they would be interested in having a guest speaker at an upcoming meeting. Commissioners will determine a date during a future meeting. G. ADJOURNMENT: 9:16 P.M. Buckridge motioned to adjourn the meeting; Approved 6-0 BLANK PAGE  REQUEST FOR ACTION City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota __________________________ Item Introduction to Anna Springer of Bolton & Menk Description As part of the ongoing planning for the Les Bolstad Golf Course redevelopment to inform future land-use decisions related to parkland, Anna Springer of Bolton & Menk will present findings related to park classifications, service levels, community needs, and regulatory requirements that should guide redevelopment concepts moving forward. Topics to be reviewed include: • Why parks matter for community health, safety, resilience, and economic vitality. • Falcon Heights’ parkland dedication requirements (8–10% of new development). • Benchmark comparisons showing current park acreage, amenities, and service gaps. • NRPA park classifications and best-practice standards applicable to future planning. • Existing amenities system-wide and identified needs for future facilities. This overview is intended to help the Parks and Recreation Commission understand how parks planning considerations may shape redevelopment scenarios and support broader community goals around health, resilience, recreation access, and environmental quality. Budget Impact N/A Attachment(s) Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment – Parks & Open Space Presentation (Bolton & Menk) Action(s) Requested Staff recommends that commission members receive the presentation, ask clarifying questions, and provide preliminary feedback for the future parkland within the Les Bolstad development. Meeting Date October 5, 2026 Agenda Item E1 Attachment See below Submitted By Kelly Nelson, Deputy Clerk / Admin. Services Director Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon HeightsLes Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights PARKS + OPEN SPACE Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Green Space The City of Falcon Heights’ Subdivision Ordinance requires that 8%–10% of new developments (depending on zoning district) be dedicated to parkland, or that a fee in lieu be paid to the City. While this is the minimum requirement, the City strongly values the benefits of accessible green space and encourages a future development that exceeds this standard by setting aside additional land for parks, natural areas, and other publicly accessible open spaces. Preserving and enhancing green space is viewed not only as a recreational amenity, but also as an essential contributor to environmental health, neighborhood character, and community wellbeing. The City also places a high priority on the protection of mature tree stock, requesting that as many existing trees as possible be preserved during development. Where tree removal is unavoidable, the City expects replacement at a one-to-one ratio, with replanting occurring promptly to ensure the long-term vitality and beauty of the site. Goals and Guiding Principles for the Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Why Parks Matter Parks Provide Health Benefits People with access to safe parks and trails excercise more and have lower rates of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes Parks Generate Economic Activity Parks attract residents and businesses, increase revenues for cities, spur private investment, and increase job opportunities Parks Improve Resiliency and Lower Infrastructure Costs for Cities Investing in parks and green infrastructure to manage stormwater is 15 - 80% less costly than investing in grey infrastructure, such as pipes or tunnels Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon HeightsLes Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Why Parks Matter Parks Provide Cooling and Air Quality Benefits Greenspaces reduce the urban heat island effect and trees in parks remove toxins and fine particulate matter from the air Parks Increase Community Engagement and Public Safety Residential areas close to parks have have less crime, in part because these spaces are frequent gathering places where people connect Parks Improve Mental Health Parks and urban nature reduce anxiety, stress, depression and negative mood while improving overall feelings of well-being Sources: Derose KP, Wallace DD, Han B, Cohen DA. Effects of park-based interventions on health-related outcomes: A systematic review. Prev Med. 2021 Jun;147:106528. doi: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2021.106528. Epub 2021 Mar 18. PMID: 33745954; PMCID: PMC8096710. Li, Y., Mao, Y., Mandle, L. et al. Acute mental health benefits of urban nature. Nat Cities 2, 720–731 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44284-025-00286-y https://www.nrpa.org/our-work/Three-Pillars/health-and-well-being/ParksandHealth/fact-sheets/parks-improved-men-tal-health-quality-life/ Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights PARK PLANNING PRINCIPLES Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Park Classifications Community Park Curtiss Field The Grove (leased) *Falcon Heights Elementary School (the City of Falcon Heights does not own or maintain FH Elementary) Table 1: NRPA Park Classifications The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), whose mission is “to advance parks, recreation and environmental conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all people,” has developed a handful of useful tools for park and recreation agencies to reference as they maintain and enhance their park, trail, and open space systems. These tools include a standard set of park classifications, park and recreation agency benchmarks, and indoor and outdoor recreation facility standards. These standards and guidelines, which are expanded upon in the following pages, assist park and recreation agencies in comparing their community’s facilities to other agencies across the country. To better allocate resources, make more informed decisions, and have a higher likelihood of successful implementation and long-term sustainability, park and recreation agencies should incorporate these metrics into their park system planning processes. As outlined in Robbinsdale’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan (completed in 2020), Robbinsdale’s parks fall into the following classifications: ◊ Mini Parks • Humphrey Park • Mielke Park • Parkview Park • Sunset Park ◊ Neighborhood Parks • Kelly Park • Lee Park • Manor Park • Sanborn Park • South Halifax Park • Triangle Park ◊ Community Parks • Hollingsworth Park • Lakeview Terrace Park • Sochacki Park • Spanjers Park ◊ Conservancy Areas • Humphrey Park • Sochacki Park In 2020 (when the comprehensive plan was created), Graeser Park’s land had not yet been released to the city by MnDOT, who recently completed a three-year preservation project focused on restoration of the parks historic stone features. As a result, the park is still technically unclassified. Sochacki Park, listed above as both a community park and conservancy area, is a rustic outdoor space comprised of upland, wetland, and woodland plant communities located in the southwestern portion of Robbinsdale. The park is operated and maintained in partnership with Golden Valley, Robbinsdale, and the Three Rivers Park District; Robbinsdale owns 36.9 acres of the park’s land, while Golden Valley owns the Rice Pond and Mary Hills Nature Area portions of the park. The table on the following page provides additional information about each NRPA park classification’s size, service area, typical location, and purpose, as well as the classification each of Robbinsdale’s parks currently fall into. Classifying parks in this way ensures the appropriate management and conservation practices are applied based on each park’s specific purpose and unique characteristics. PARK TYPESPARK TYPESEXISTINGEXISTING Classification Size (Typ.) Service Area Access Purpose + Function Robbinsdale Park Classes Found in Robbinsdale Mini Park 2,500 square feet to 1 acre 1/4 mile radius Easily accessible to neighborhood residents; can be found in urban settings, usually in or near downtown areas Provides opportunities for recreation close to home, especially where access to larger parks is not possible; often comprised of large areas of hard surfaces • Humphrey Park • Mielke Park • Parkview Park • Sunset Park Neighborhood Park >1 to 15 acres 1/4 to 1/2 mile radius; within a walkable distance to surrounding residents without any major barriers Easily accessible to neighborhood populations with safe walking and bicycle access Provides both active and passive recreation and information gathering spaces; responds to the need for basic recreational amenities • Kelly Park • Lee Park • Manor Park • Sanborn Park • South Halifax Park • Triangle Park Community Park >15 acres 1 to 2 miles; community-wide Accessible by foot, bike, car, and public transit; often located near natural amenities and regional trail systems Provides a strategic location for community-wide activities that serve a broad purpose; balances active and passive recreational needs • Hollingsworth Park • Lakeview Terrace Park • Sochacki Park • Spanjers Park Regional Park Up to several hundred acres; varies Community-wide, regional, and tourist use Can vary; often placed or centered around natural environments Uses vary but are focused primarily on outdoor and natural resource-based recreation and learning opportunities Additional Park Types Special Use Varies Community-wide Site-specific Serves a specific community need (e.g., golf, fitness, nature education, etc.) Natural/ Conservancy Areas Varies Community-wide Placed around natural resources + amenities Typically used for passive recreation; designed to protect environmentally-sensitive features • Humphrey Park • Sochacki Park Youth Athletic Park*10 to 20 acres Community-wide Generally connected to trails and sidewalks; ample parking Provides a strategic location for youth athletic fields and their associated facilities Community Athletic Park** 10 to 25+ acres Community-wide Generally connected to trails and sidewalks; ample parking Provides a strategic location for organized athletic recreation with regulation- sized fields and their associated facilities functions similarly to a neighborhood park functions similarly to a community park*** 25ROBBINSDALE PARK SYSTEM PLAN ROBBINSDALE PARK SYSTEM PLAN24 TH E E X I S T I N G C O N D I T I O N S + N E E D S TH E E X I S T I N G C O N D I T I O N S + N E E D S Table 1: NRPA Park Classifications The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), whose mission is “to advance parks, recreation and environmental conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all people,” has developed a handful of useful tools for park and recreation agencies to reference as they maintain and enhance their park, trail, and open space systems. These tools include a standard set of park classifications, park and recreation agency benchmarks, and indoor and outdoor recreation facility standards. These standards and guidelines, which are expanded upon in the following pages, assist park and recreation agencies in comparing their community’s facilities to other agencies across the country. To better allocate resources, make more informed decisions, and have a higher likelihood of successful implementation and long-term sustainability, park and recreation agencies should incorporate these metrics into their park system planning processes. As outlined in Robbinsdale’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan (completed in 2020), Robbinsdale’s parks fall into the following classifications: ◊ Mini Parks • Humphrey Park • Mielke Park • Parkview Park • Sunset Park ◊ Neighborhood Parks • Kelly Park • Lee Park • Manor Park • Sanborn Park • South Halifax Park • Triangle Park ◊ Community Parks • Hollingsworth Park • Lakeview Terrace Park • Sochacki Park • Spanjers Park ◊ Conservancy Areas • Humphrey Park • Sochacki Park In 2020 (when the comprehensive plan was created), Graeser Park’s land had not yet been released to the city by MnDOT, who recently completed a three-year preservation project focused on restoration of the parks historic stone features. As a result, the park is still technically unclassified. Sochacki Park, listed above as both a community park and conservancy area, is a rustic outdoor space comprised of upland, wetland, and woodland plant communities located in the southwestern portion of Robbinsdale. The park is operated and maintained in partnership with Golden Valley, Robbinsdale, and the Three Rivers Park District; Robbinsdale owns 36.9 acres of the park’s land, while Golden Valley owns the Rice Pond and Mary Hills Nature Area portions of the park. The table on the following page provides additional information about each NRPA park classification’s size, service area, typical location, and purpose, as well as the classification each of Robbinsdale’s parks currently fall into. Classifying parks in this way ensures the appropriate management and conservation practices are applied based on each park’s specific purpose and unique characteristics. PARK TYPESPARK TYPESEXISTINGEXISTING Classification Size (Typ.) Service Area Access Purpose + Function Robbinsdale Park Classes Found in Robbinsdale Mini Park 2,500 square feet to 1 acre 1/4 mile radius Easily accessible to neighborhood residents; can be found in urban settings, usually in or near downtown areas Provides opportunities for recreation close to home, especially where access to larger parks is not possible; often comprised of large areas of hard surfaces • Humphrey Park • Mielke Park • Parkview Park • Sunset Park Neighborhood Park >1 to 15 acres 1/4 to 1/2 mile radius; within a walkable distance to surrounding residents without any major barriers Easily accessible to neighborhood populations with safe walking and bicycle access Provides both active and passive recreation and information gathering spaces; responds to the need for basic recreational amenities • Kelly Park • Lee Park • Manor Park • Sanborn Park • South Halifax Park • Triangle Park Community Park >15 acres 1 to 2 miles; community-wide Accessible by foot, bike, car, and public transit; often located near natural amenities and regional trail systems Provides a strategic location for community-wide activities that serve a broad purpose; balances active and passive recreational needs • Hollingsworth Park • Lakeview Terrace Park • Sochacki Park • Spanjers Park Regional Park Up to several hundred acres; varies Community-wide, regional, and tourist use Can vary; often placed or centered around natural environments Uses vary but are focused primarily on outdoor and natural resource-based recreation and learning opportunities Additional Park Types Special Use Varies Community-wide Site-specific Serves a specific community need (e.g., golf, fitness, nature education, etc.) Natural/ Conservancy Areas Varies Community-wide Placed around natural resources + amenities Typically used for passive recreation; designed to protect environmentally-sensitive features • Humphrey Park • Sochacki Park Youth Athletic Park*10 to 20 acres Community-wide Generally connected to trails and sidewalks; ample parking Provides a strategic location for youth athletic fields and their associated facilities Community Athletic Park**10 to 25+ acres Community-wide Generally connected to trails and sidewalks; ample parking Provides a strategic location for organized athletic recreation with regulation- sized fields and their associated facilities functions similarly to a neighborhood park functions similarly to a community park*** 25ROBBINSDALE PARK SYSTEM PLAN ROBBINSDALE PARK SYSTEM PLAN24 TH E E X I S T I N G C O N D I T I O N S + N E E D S TH E E X I S T I N G C O N D I T I O N S + N E E D S Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Amenities Provided Recreation Facilities Park StructuresGathering Spaces + Amenities Community Gardens Ballfields Picnic Shelters Basketball Courts Community Park Building Tennis Courts Warming House Gaga Ball Pits Gazebo Outdoor Fitness Courses Shade Pergola Volleyball Court * *Provided in Lauderdale Community Park Soccer Fields Hockey/Skating Rink Archery Range * Horseshoe Pits Splash Pad Sledding Hills Portable Toilets Playground Equipment Dog Park * Grills Benches Picnic Tables Trash Receptacles Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Amenity + Facility Distribution | Falcon Heights, MN 1. Lauderdale Community Park 4. *Falcon Heights Elementary School 5. Curtiss FieldParkLarpenteur Ave WLarpenteur Ave W Roselawn Ave WRoselawn Ave W Cl e v e l a n d A v e N Cl e v e l a n d A v e N Fu l h a m S t Fu l h a m S t St. PaulSt. Paul RosevilleRoseville La u d e r d a l e La u d e r d a l e Ha m l i n e A v e N Ha m l i n e A v e N Sn e l l i n g A v e Sn e l l i n g A v e U of MN CampusU of MN Campus 1 2 3 4 52. Grove Park 3. Community Park Legend ParkBoundaries StateFairgrounds Amenities RecreationFacilities ParkStructures Les BolstadGolf Course(Property tobe Disposed) Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Amenity Table Park Amenity Community Park Curtiss Field Grove Park *Falcon Heights Elementary School Lauderdale Community Park Ba l l f i e l d s ( R e c r e a t i o n a l ) Bi k e R a c k s Ic e S k a t i n g / H o c k e y R i n k Pa r k E n t r y S i g n a g e Pi c n i c T a b l e s Ba l l f i e l d s ( C o m p e t i t i v e ) Of f - L e a s h D o g P a r k Ki o s k / W a y f i n d i n g S i g n a g e / M a p p i n g Pe r m a n e n t R e s t r o o m s Pl a y g r o u n d A r e a s Ba s k e t b a l l C o u r t ( H a l f ) So c c e r / F l e x F i e l d *Items in red are facilities currently absent from the system or only available in Lauderdale or on the U of MN Campus Pi c k l e b a l l /T e n n i s C o u r t s Po r t a b l e T o i l e t s Sp l a s h P a d Sl e d d i n g H i l l s Vo l l e y b a l l C o u r t s Ba s k e t b a l l C o u r t ( F u l l ) Ho r s e s h o e P i t s Of f - S t r e e t P a r k i n g On - S t r e e t P a r k i n g Pi c n i c S h e l t e r s Pe r m . P a r k B u i l d i n g Co m m u n i t y G a r d e n Ou t d o o r F i t n e s s C o u r s e Wa r m i n g H o u s e GatheringSpaces + Amenities Recreation Facilities Park Structures Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Service Area Standards Facility Median Number Per Population Less Than 20,000 Service Area Target Range (post-development) pop. 8,369 Current Number Excess/Deficit (post-development)Notes Outdoor Facilities Ballfields 1 per city + 1 per 2,500 to 5,000 (recreational) 10-15 min.4 - 5 recreational ballfields 3 Deficit of 1 to 2 1 per city + 1 per 5,000 to 10,000 (competitive) 10-15 min.2 - 3 competitive ballfields 0 Deficit of 2 to 3 Basketball Courts 1 per 4,500 (full-court)10-15 min.1 - 2 (full-court)3 (full- court) Excess of 1 (full-court) 1 per 3,000 (half- court) 10-15 min.2 - 3 (half-court)2 (half- court) Deficit of 0 to1 (half-court) Community Gardens 1 per 9,000 Entire city 0 to1 community garden 1 0 Disc Golf Courses 1 per 11,000 Entire city 0 to 1 disc golf course 0 Deficit of 1 Courses within 10 miles of Falcon Heights included Hillcrest Knoll (Saint Paul) and Acorn Park (Roseville) Exercise Stations 1 per 8,000 Entire city 1 fitness zone/exercise station 1 0 18-Hole Golf Courses 1 per 9,500 Entire city 0 18-hole golf course 0 0 Courses within 10 miles of Falcon Heights included Midland Hills (Roseville) and Como Park (Saint Paul) Flex Fields 1 per 3,000 1-2 miles 2 - 3 flex fields 3 Deficit of 0 to 1 Off-Leash Dog Parks 1 per 10,000 10-15 min.0 to1 off-leash dog park 0 Deficit of 0 to 1 Small dog park provided at Lauderdale Community Park Outdoor Ice Rinks 1 per 8,000 10-15 min.1 ice rinks 3 Excess of 2 Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Service Area Standards Facility Median Number Per Population Less Than 20,000 Service Area Target Range (post-development) pop. 8,369 Current Number Excess/Deficit (post-development)Notes Outdoor Facilities Outdoor Swimming Pools 1 per 9,500 Entire city 0 to 1 outdoor swimming pool 0 0 Public pool at Como Regional Park Pickleball Courts 1 per 3,500 10-15 min.2 to 3 pickleball courts 0 Deficit of 2 to 3 6 U of MN courts at Hoyt and Cleveland Playgrounds 1 per 2,000 10-15 min.4 to 5 playgrounds 4 Deficit of 0 to 1 Skate Park 1 per 11,000 Entire city 0 to 1 skate park 0 Deficit of 0 to 1 Sledding Hills N/A Entire city 1 sledding hill 0 Deficit of 1 1 sledding hill at Lauderdale Community Park, 1 informal hill currenlty provided on site at Les Bolstad Splash Pad/ Water Plaza 1 per 12,500 Entire city 0 to 1 splash pad/water plaza 0 0 Tennis Courts 1 per 3,000 10-15 min.2 to 3 tennis courts 2 Deficit of 0 to 1 Volleyball Courts 1 per 9,000 20-25 min.0 to 1 volleyball court 0 Deficit of 0 to 1 Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Service Area Standards Facility Median Number Per Population Less Than 20,000 Service Area Target Range (post-development) pop. 8,369 Current Number Excess/Deficit (post-development)Notes Indoor Facilities Aquatic Centers 1 per 12,500 Entire city 0 aquatic center 0 0 Highland Park Aqutic Center Community Centers 1 per 9,000 Entire city 0 to 1 community center 0 0 Indoor Ice Arenas 1 per 8,000 Entire city 1 indoor ice rink 0 Deficit of 0 to 1 Roseville Ice Arena Nature Centers 1 per 10,000 Entire city 0 nature center 0 0 Permanent/ Semi- Permanent Restrooms 1 per 5,000 20-25 min. 1 to 2 permanent/semi- permanent restrooms 1 Deficit of 0 to 1 Recreation Centers (including gyms) 1 per 9,500 Entire city 0 recreation center 0 0 Northwest Como Recreation Center Senior Centers 1 per 14,000 Entire city 0 senior center 0 0 Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Benchmarks / Level of Service *Includes 6.25 acres from Falcon Heights Elementary School Derived from the 2026 NRPA Agency Performance Review NRPA Benchmark Park and Recreation Agencies Less Than 20,000 (Median) Falcon Heights current population 5,369 24.65 park acres* Falcon Heights post-development population 8,369 Park Facilities Residents per park 1,062 residents/park 1,789 residents/park need to add at least one more park to meet benchmark Acres of parkland per 1,000 residents 12.6 acres/ 1,000 resident 4.6 acres/resident Would need to add 81 acres to get to 12.6 acres / 1,000 residents Miles of trails 4.5 miles 6 miles 6 miles of trails post-development is greater than the 4.5 miles currently provided by the median agency Larpenteur Ave WLarpenteur Ave W Roselawn Ave WRoselawn Ave W Cl e v e l a n d A v e N Cl e v e l a n d A v e N St. PaulSt. Paul RosevilleRoseville La u d e r d a l e La u d e r d a l e Ha m l i n e A v e N Ha m l i n e A v e N Sn e l l i n g A v e Sn e l l i n g A v e Fu l h a m S t Fu l h a m S t Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Park Access area outside the 5-minute park walkshed Legend 1/4 Mile (5 min.)Walkshed Park Boundary 1/2 Mile (10 min.)Walkshed Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Parkland Dedication Ordinance Sec. 109-53 - Parkland Dedication (a) As a condition to approval of any subdivision of land, the owner shall dedicate a portion of the gross area of such land for a city-owned public park, playground, open space, trail system or other public recreational purposes according to the following schedule: (1) Eight percent for land zoned R-1 one-family residential district; (2) Nine percent for land zoned R-2 two-family residential district; (3)Ten percent for land zoned R-4 medium density multiple-family district - apartment buildings; (4)Ten percent for land zoned R5-M mixed use high density residential district; (5)Ten percent for land zoned B-1, B-2, or B-3 business district; and (6) Prorated percentage according to subsections (1)-(4) of this section for land zoned planned unit development district. (b)The land to be dedicated for public purposes under subsection (a) of this section shall be reasonably adaptable to the use intended, shall be at a location convenient to people to be served thereby, and shall not be used in computing compliance with open space or density requirements under chapter 113, zoning. Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Parkland Dedication Ordinance Sec. 109-53 - Parkland Dedication (continued) (c) Where privately owned open space for public park and recreation purposes is provided in a proposed subdivision, such areas may be used for credit, at the discretion of the city council, against the land or cash dedication requirement for park and recreation purposes, provided the city council finds it is in the public interest to do so. (d) At the option of the city and in lieu of such dedication, the owner shall pay to the city for such purposes a cash payment equal to the fair market value of the land that would otherwise be required to be dedicated under this section. (e)The dedication requirements are presumptively appropriate. A subdivider may request a deviation from the presumptive requirements based upon the anticipated impact of that particular subdivision. The request must be made before final subdivision approval by the city. (f) Property being subdivided without an increase in the number of lots shall be exempt from the dedication requirements if similar requirements were satisfied in conjunction with an earlier subdivision. If the number of lots is increased, then the dedication shall be based on the additional lots created. Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Parkland Dedication Ordinance KEY TAKEAWAYS • 8-10% of the development will be dedicated for public park or green space • The land dedicated has to be suitable for the development of a park or green space • This park or green space must be located where new residents can use it • The city could decide to accept money for the development of parks rather than the land • If council approved, the developer could provide public access to private property as part of the dedication. Private owners design, develop, own and maintain the space and future decision-making about it. Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Trends and Opportunities in Recreation and Park Design Design for multi-generational use Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Trends and Opportunities in Recreation and Park Design Nature as a tool for renewal Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Access to multi-use trails Trends and Opportunities in Recreation and Park Design Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Trends and Opportunities in Recreation and Park Design Access to woodlands / microforests Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Topography as site structure Trends and Opportunities in Recreation and Park Design Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Public/private partnerships Trends and Opportunities in Recreation and Park Design Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Events and community gathering Trends and Opportunities in Recreation and Park Design Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Access to naturalized areas Trends and Opportunities in Recreation and Park Design Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights Park as green infrastructure, green infrastructure as park Trends and Opportunities in Recreation and Park Design Les Bolstad Golf Course Redevelopment | City of Falcon Heights 1) Opportunity to provide a new highly-accessible, multi-purpose recreation experience and community space designed for EVERYBODY 2) Opportunity to meet the need for access to nature / natural areas 3) Thinking beyond the cookie-cutter park approach will be key to maximizing the opportunity BLANK PAGE  REQUEST FOR ACTION City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota __________________________ Item Continued Discussion Regarding the Vision of Future Parkland at Les Bolstad Development Description As the City looks ahead to the development of the Les Bolstad Golf Course site, the Parks and Recreation Commission began to outline their basic vision, goals, priorities and wants during the August 3, 2026 meeting so that they may be conveyed to the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) when holding a future meeting to discuss the parks with the developer. Because the development itself is not finalized and many variables are still unknown (i.e. the location, size, and quantity of the devoted parkland with the parcel), the August 3rd meeting was a high-level discussion intended to become more fine-tuned at detailed as time passes. At the conclusion of the August 3, 2026 commission meeting, commissioners were asked to create a mission statement to be shared with fellow commissioners during the September 2, 2026 meeting to continue to fine-tune the commission’s vision and to create a finalized mission statement to share with the CAC at one of their TBD upcoming meetings. At the conclusion of the September 2, 2026 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, with guidance from Andrew Dresdner from Bolton & Menk, commissioners were asked to do homework and begin to identify values…at a high level… the commission’s bullet-pointed “musts” and “must nots” for the parkland to then work towards a mission statement. Anna Springer, an Urban Design Landscape Architect Project Manager at Bolton and Menk will attend the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on October 5, 2026 to help facilitate discussion to lead to a list of defined values and mission statement that can be shared with the Community Advisory Committee (CAC). Budget Impact TBD Attachment(s) Values and mission statements from commissioners Meeting Date October 5, 2026 Agenda Item E2 Attachment See below Submitted By Kelly Nelson, Deputy Clerk / Admin. Services Director Action(s) Requested Staff recommends that commission members share their individual visions and drafted mission statements to foster further discussion and to identify the commission’s vision for the future parkland within the Les Bolstad development. Examples of Values •Accessibility Ensuring parks are easy to reach and welcoming for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. •Sustainability Protecting natural resources, supporting biodiversity, and using environmentally friendly practices. •Equity Providing quality parks and recreational opportunities fairly across all neighborhoods. •Community Wellness Promoting physical and mental health through safe, clean, and engaging outdoor spaces. •Safety Maintaining well-lit, secure, and well-cared-for environments where people feel comfortable. •Inclusivity Offering spaces and programming that reflect and support the diversity of the community. •Stewardship Actively caring for public land and encouraging residents to participate in its preservation. •Environmental Education Creating opportunities to learn about nature, conservation, and local ecosystems. •Connectivity Designing parks and trails that connect neighborhoods, promote active transportation, and build community cohesion. •Economic Vitality Leveraging parks to increase property values, support local businesses, and attract visitors. •Cultural & Recreational Enrichment Providing spaces for arts, events, sports, and community gatherings. •Resilience Designing parks to help manage stormwater, mitigate heat, and support long-term environmental adaptation. • Tree Preservation and Urban Forestry Protecting mature trees, expanding canopy coverage, and maintaining a healthy urban forest contribute to ecological resilience, air quality, community character, and shade for park users. • Social Gathering and Community Building Parks should offer places where residents can meet, connect, celebrate, and build relationships through events, amenities, and thoughtfully designed public spaces. • Active Recreation Providing spaces for structured physical activity such as sports fields, courts, playgrounds, fitness equipment, and programmed recreation. The value emphasizes promoting health, movement, and engagement through designed amenities. • Passive Recreation Supporting quiet, unstructured activities like walking, birdwatching, picnicking, reading, or simply enjoying nature. This value highlights the importance of peaceful spaces that offer restoration, reflection, and low-impact use. • Importance of Natural Areas Recognizing natural landscapes as essential components of the parks system—valuing native plantings, habitat protection, wetlands, prairies, forested areas, and ecological corridors. Cities often frame this as preserving “natural character,” supporting biodiversity, and ensuring residents have meaningful contact with nature. • Balance of Use Many cities articulate a value around balancing active and passive uses to meet diverse community needs. This includes avoiding over-programming green spaces, preserving serenity, and ensuring athletic amenities don’t overshadow natural environments. • Distribution and Location of Parks Emphasizing that parks should be geographically dispersed so all residents have convenient access. This value supports walkability, equity, and neighborhood-level amenities. • Park Size and Function Recognizing that parks should vary in size to meet different community needs—from small neighborhood “pocket parks” to large community parks and natural reserves. Each size category supports distinct types of activities. • Shape and Usability Valuing park shapes that maximize usability, visibility, and safety. Well-shaped parks often have clear sightlines, accessible edges, and enough contiguous space to accommodate desired features. • Number of Parks / Adequacy of Parkland Maintaining a sufficient quantity of parks and open spaces to serve the population. Some cities adhere to acreage standards or accessibility goals (for example, a park within a 10-minute walk of every resident). • Connectivity and Network Design Ensuring parks are part of a connected system rather than isolated parcels. This includes trail links, greenways, and coordinated layouts that strengthen citywide cohesion. •Optimal Park PlacementChoosing locations that support ecological health, stormwater needs, community desires, andfuture development patterns. Strategic placement can ensure long-term functionality andresilience. • Integrating “old” and “new” Falcon Heights together. • Places for gathering and park programming –that bring people INTO/Inside the new community. Gathering for both with and without physical activity. • Welcomes in surrounding areas into the new development, including those outside of FH impacted by increased traffic (Roseville and Lauderdale adjacent to development)--especially as increased number of cars will be driving down their residential streets. • Falcon Heights controlled –anything within the planning can only be one the city can control (not outside cities, or other entities). We don’t know and cannot control what the UofMN and Lauderdale will do with their properties. • Area(s) within the development that are easy/safe for children to access independently. • Sustain and preserve natural resources (especially trees) • Incorporate Park amenities that are not currently present in FH parks. Some brainstorm examples include: o sand volleyball, o bocce, o fun climbing structures (like french lake or wooden such as Plymouth Community Park in Plymouth, MI OR o Teddy Bear Park in Stillwater o Woodbridge in cottage grove o Outdoor work out stations (more inclusive than FH community park). • Picnic tables and grill space (and would love a building for programs and renting) • If the park were to be only one large space-it would be in center and drawing people in. When I was working on vision/mission statement (with help of AI) • “To foster a vibrant community where neighbors come together, build meaningful connections, support one another, and grow together.” • “To create a welcoming hub that brings people from across the surrounding community together, strengthening relationships and creating opportunities for connection and collaboration.” To create a welcoming park space that brings the local community together, fostering connection, belonging, and shared experiences. We envision a vibrant gathering place where neighbors of all ages can enjoy nature, build relationships, celebrate together, and create a stronger, more connected community. To create a welcoming spaces that brings together established neighborhoods and new construction communities, creating opportunities for neighbors to connect, build relationships, and share experiences. The park will serve as a common gathering place that strengthens community identity, fosters belonging, and brings people together across generations and neighborhoods. My values are as follows: Equity Inclusivity Stewardship Social gathering and community building Sustainability Resilience Our vision is a welcoming, green and connected Falcon Heights-where equity guides our decisions, trees flourish, pathways link our neighborhoods, and vibrant gathering spaces strengthen community. 2 top items for me: We have a once in a lifetime opportunity to connect Grove to Community Park and should also consider connecting to Lauderdale. I suggest a significant walking / biking path that can weave through the nicest stands of trees, connecting Grove, Community and Lauderdale parks. The trolly line is unique and, at the very least (even if it were to become “no trespassing”) a land buffer and natural space. The golf course trees along the trolley line are a dense canopy and some of the oldest on the site. We have a once in a lifetime opportunity to expand a park that is some distance away from our largest park, favorable to housing to the south. I suggest we expand Grove Park along the trolley line. Vision The parks of Falcon Heights are neighborhood gathering hubs with a balanced mix of natural, cultural, and recreational amenities that contribute to the health, enjoyment, and learning of all people. Core Values Equity: We value our parks for their sense of welcome, safety, and accessibility for all. Natural environment: We value our parks for their natural areas, waters and forests. Accountability: We value our parks because they embody productive collaboration between the community and city government. Social connection: We value our parks as public places that bring people together, build social ties, and enhance a sense of belonging. Visual appeal: We value our parks as green spaces with trees and landscaped gardens that add natural color, shade, and scenic views and soften the sharp lines and shapes of the surrounding built environment. Equitable Accessible Inclusive Sustainable Preservation Connected Balanced Economic vitality Mission: To provide a City owned, operated, and maintained park that offers welcoming recreational and social opportunities where all members of the Falcon Heights community may gather. This is effectuated by the following: Ensuring equal access to all facilities, programs, and grounds; Ensuring that all facilities, programs, and grounds are accessible to and inclusive of the Falcon Heights community’s wide range of ages, abilities, needs, and interests. Implementing environmentally sustainable practices; Preserving the existing trees and groves to the greatest extent possible as they are irreplaceable; Connecting the park to existing parks to promote an overall City park system; Balancing the park between active and passive recreational opportunities; Ensuring that the park maintains, if not enhances, the economic vitality of the surrounding neighborhood and the City as a whole. With connectivity to the overall community at the forefront when planning and maintaining amenities, we prioritize decisions that support the greater good of all residents, neighbors, visitors, and future generations rather than the adjacent few. In doing so, we recognize that natural, native landscapes and the preservation of mature trees are essential community assets that strengthen ecological health, enhance wellbeing, and reflect our shared stewardship values. To ensure long-term protection of these resources and equitable access for all, the parkland shall remain city-owned, city-operated, and city-maintained.