06-07-2018 Parks & Rec Commission Minutes

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MINUTES PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION June 7, 2018 Days. Chu explained the project could be done in phases to divide the cost. Chair Miller stated the Commission would need to know where the private land boundaries were along the area. Mr. Sedlacek clarified private landowners and the City alike can plant approved shrubs and plants, as long as a plan is submitted and approved by Xcel Energy. Councilman Fischer shared his excitement about being able to work with a clean slate, but noted Xcel Energy should have spoken with the City before clear cutting the area. He explained residents were devastated by the loss of trees and how the character of the area had been changed. Councilman Fischer asked why Xcel Energy decided to clear-cut the area. Mr. Sedlacek explained woody species are supposed to be taken out every four years, and usually neighbors are warned before large trees are taken. He stated this project was seen as routine, and a mailing wasn’t necessary. Mr. Sedlacek noted in retrospect a mailing should have been sent to affected property owners. Ray asked what the clear zone was for plantings. Mr. Sedlacek responded it was 25 to 30 feet below the lowest point of the overhead lines. Chu suggested a statement from Xcel Energy be shared with residents on social media. Councilman Fischer stated this clear-cut was much more than four years of growth. Horwath stated he has lived in the area for 8 years, and this had never happened before. Councilman Fischer explained this had been a public relations challenge for the City to overcome and hoped this would be handled more appropriately going forward. Darling stated residents and the City should be treated with more respect in the future and made aware of projects like this. Horwath asked if Xcel Energy would be coming back to clear the shrubs and trees that were left. Mr. Sedlacek explained the plantings that were left were thought to be on private property and Xcel would review their easement agreements before acting. The Community Services Manager reported the Veteran’s Memorial Committee plans included an interpretive sign at Veterans Memorial Park. In addition, two 12-inch by 12-inch pavers engraved and four 4-inch by 8- inch veterans pavers need to be engraved. Horwath made a motion to approve the expenditure from the Veterans Memorial Fund in the amount of $617.90 to Advantage Sign and approximately $125 to Rivard Stone for the engraving of six pavers. Chu seconded the motion. The motion was unanimously approved. The Community Services Manager suggested the Commission hold a parks tour prior to the next meeting on July 10. Darling explained the Waterworks Trail was a hidden amenity in Little Canada and may be a good chance to explore a portion of the trail. The Community Services Manager suggested the Commission visit Pioneer Park and consider some of the improvements outlined in the Parks Master Plan, or even visit a park outside Little Canada. Horwath noted it may take a little longer than a VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK EXPENDITURES JULY PARKS TOUR