02-05-09 Parks Commission Minutes

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MINUTES Parks & Recreation Commission February 5,2009 have already donated land for 10' easements on Edgerton Street and Little Canada Road and would prefer that the Commission propose a Park Dedication Fee for each of the proposed four lots instead of a land donation. Sanders commented that the Park Dedication Fee is determined by the City Council. He also stated that the property owners could have an imposed deed restriction for removal or disturbance of any trees on the property. The commissioners had a lengthy discussion on the preservation of the wetlands and trees on the north end of the property. They did not want to see a large home built on the most northern lot that would disturb the beauty of the natural vegetation. Fahey commented that additional park land was not needed for that area, so stated she would be in favor of having the Council impose a Pai•k Dedication Fee of cash in lieu of land. Maida made a motion to send a recommendation to the City Council to assess the proposed four new lots with a cash Park Dedication Fee with all consideration to be given to the preservation of the trees and wetlands on the northern-most lot. Slain seconded the motion. Motion passed 6-0. OLD BUSINESS: NORTH/SOUTH TRAIL CONNECTION: Sanders stated he is in the process of setting up a meeting with members from the City of Little Canada, City of Maplewood, Roseville Area School District, St. Jude, and Ramsey County. This committee would report back to their organizations the progress of the North/South Trail connection. Maida asked about the grant status and Sanders indicated he is waiting to receive more information to proceed. I-Ie had nothing to report at this time. OTHER PARKS/TRAILS: Fahey commented that it might be difficult to go forward with the state of the economy. Sanders agreed that property acquisitions might be difficult to obtain causing some projects to remain on hold. OTHER: Sanders commented that the Workshop held prior to the regular meeting was well attended and appreciated all the comments and recommendations. Maida stated he also enjoyed the workshop and thought the Comprehensive Plan was an excellent guidance tool for setting standards and goals. Maida expressed his appreciation to Sanders for the hard work and dedication he has given the Park & Recreation Comprehensive Plan. All the other commissioners agreed and expressed their appreciation also to Sanders. Sanders commented that the parks system within the city has progressed to a great degree since he has been the Parks Consultant, starting in 1973. At that time the city did not have any parks. He attributed the success of the parks system to the current and previous commissioners, mayors and council Page 2 of 4