HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/01/1991 Park Board PacketMEMORANDUM
*****************************************************************
TO: All Park Board Members
FROM: Marty Asleson, Superintendent of Parks, Recreation and
Forestry
DATE: June 26, 1991
RE: Park Board Meeting of July 1, 1991
As of today we have no new agenda items for discussion at the Park
Board Meeting, so we have canceled the July meeting. The next
meeting will be on Monday, August 5,1991 at 6:30 pm.
AIIN
Just to update you on current affairs, the recreation programs have
taken off like a rocket on some things, and other programs have
fizzled. The Adult Softball programs have been a great success, as
have the Open Playgrounds at Sunrise Park and City Hall. It appears
that the children see other children on the playgrounds, and are
attracted to the activity going on. The numbers are exponentially
increasing here. The "T" Ball program for 5 and 6 year olds is very
successful, and we are receiving many positive comments. "Tiny -
Tot", Twins Day and it appears that the Leo Lewis Football Clinic
will not have the number of people to make the program"go" this
year. Golf and tennis registrations are slow at this time, but
still show some promise. Fall Softball and Touch Football also show
some promise.
Larry Jablonski, Personnel Director at Centennial School District,
contacted me to let me know that they have established an office
area in the 916 area of the Junior High for Community Services,
including an area for our programmer.
We have obtained a number of light standards and lights from the
athletic facility renovation project at Centennial High School that
may be used in our parks; possibly at the new Rice Lake Elementary
School Park on Birch Street.
Tree Preservation plans have started coming in, and appear at this
time, to be working alright for both developments and builders.
Preliminary plans for "Lino Days" are under way.The date is set for
Saturday, August 17th. Some suggested activities from a parks and
recreation standpoint include a Fall Softball League activity,
volleyball, and some type of a scavenger hunt to help people
"discover" where our parks are.
The next Comprehensive Parks Planning Committee meeting is
scheduled for July 17th at 6:30 pm. Please find enclosed a copy of
the assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation needs (draft)
statement and the Structured Guide for Developing Governing
Policies for the Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation System. Also,
enclosed is a copy of the charges to date for the project.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this project, of
any of the above summaries, please contact me.
Thank you,
Marty
0
LAND USE PLANNING AND DESIGN
J.
Date: June 14, 1991
To: Park System 'Planning Advisory Committee
City of Lino Lakes
Subject: `Assessment of Lino Lake's Parks and Recreation Needs, Structured Guide for
Developing Governing Policies, and Upcoming meeting schedule.
Comment:
In order to allow Committee members adequate time to review all of the enclosed
information, the meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 19th @ 8:00 p.m. (City Hall
Council Chamber) will be resche&dad for July 17th (& 6:30 p.m. (City Hall - Council
Chamber). For those of you that were not able to attend our last meeting, the time change
to 6:30 p.m was considered by the Committee members present to be a more appropriate
time than 8:00 p.m.
The enclosed information includes:
• Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lake's Parks and Recreation Needs (Draft).
• Structured Guide for Developing Governing Policies for the Lino Lakes Park and
Recreation System.
Please review the draft of Section 2 first to make sure that I have accurately recorded your
concerns about the future development of the park system. Make note of any additions or
deletions that you feel may be appropriate. All of your concerns will be discussed during
our next meeting.
After you have had a chance to review Section 2, please review the structured guide related ,
to the development of governing polices. The guide is fairly extensive and will require a fair
amount of your time to go through. However, since the governing policies will directly
affect the planning process from here on out, I cannot overstress how important it is that
you clearly understand and agree with the governing policies statements.
If you have any questions or concerns about this information, please do not hesitate to call.
Please keep in mind that I will be ' unavailable from June 22nd to July 15th to take your
calls, so if you do have any specific questions, please give me a call either before or after
those dates.
Wicesident
R & IATES, LTD
-^,. Sc oen auer, L.A.
91-21 (B) ltr2.adv
7901 Flying Cloud Drive Eden Prairie MN 55344 Tel (612)941-1660 Fax (612)941-1663
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs City of Lino Lakes
40
Section 2
Assessment of Lino Lakes's Parks and Recreation Needs
Overview
As Lino Lakes develops and prospers, concerns
about the surrounding environment, open space, and
personal living space become increasingly more
important to individuals and families residing within
the community. In many respects, an individuals
perceptions as to the quality of life within a
community is directly and indirectly correlated to
the quality of the park system and open spaces that
surrounds them.
For any park and recreation system to be successful,
it must be developed in a manner in which it fulfills
the physical, psychological, and recreational
expectations of those it is intended to serve.
In this instance, the term "parks and recreation
system" is intr ;d to be viewed in a broader
context which includes not only parks and open
spaces per se, but urban spaces, trails, greenways,
streetscapes, schools, wetlands, water bodies, nature
areas, reforestation/beautification programs,
historical preservation, etc. as well.
It should also be kept in mind that some of the
issues which are addressed in this section (as well as
others) go beyond park system planning and
therefore require both input and guidance from
other public bodies.
In assessing Lino Lakes's park and recreational
needs it is important to consider information from
a variety of sources. Doing so will enhance our
knowledge of projected trends in recreation
participation as well as allow for a more thorough
understanding of the recreational needs and
developmental concerns of City residents.
In this instance, the following sources where
selected because they provide information which
addresses relevant pare and recreation concerns
and provide insight into the issues confronting the
City of Lino Lakes.
Information Sources
• Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation
Plan (SCORP) for 1990-1994.
• Community Opinion Survey, 1988.
• Park System Planning Advisory Committee.
• Public Meetings
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
Statewide Perspective on Trends in
Outdoor Recreation Patterns
and Participation Rates
To fully understand and assess the parks and
recreational needs of the community, it is important
to review actual and projected trends in recreational
patterns and participation rates from a broader,
statewide perspective. This will allow for a clearer
picture to emerge about recreational trends and
provide insight as to the general attitudes toward
environmental issues.
Much of the forth -coming information was compiled
by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
and Travel & Economic Development and
published as part of the Statewide Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation (SCORP) Plan for 1990-1994.
According to the SCORP Plan, it is anticipated that
the huge growth in the past decade in outdoor
recreation appears to be slowing. This is, from one
perspective, perhaps a blessing since the current
demand already exceeds the capacity of the existing
recreational facilities. Additionally, free time has
increased, albeit slightly, in recent years (free time
is defined as the time not occupied with work, sleep,
and personal care). This increase in free time will
most likely increase the time that individuals spend
in recreational pursuits, thus increasing the demand
on current facilities.
During 1985 and 1986 a random state-wide survey
was undertaken in an attempt to determine the level
of participation of Minnesota residents in a variety
of outdoor activities.
As Figure 1 illustrates, walking/hiking, biking,
fishing, and driving had the highest participation
rates. Its interesting to note that Minnesotans
recreate outdoors an average of 225 hours per
capita per year.
Fishing -12
Driving -
Swimming -
Boating - S%X
Hunting -
Nature Observation - 491
Sightseeing
Biking -12%
WalkinWIRking
-18%
Other - 22 %
(12 activities)
% Camping.3%
Golfing - 3%
Figure L Minnesotans' Outdoor Recreation Hours
per Capita Activity, 1985.
City of Lino Lakes
As Figure 2 illustrates, age plays a significant role in
the total number of hours per capita that Minnesota
residents participate in outdoor recreational
activities.
Hours/ Capita
7-14 13.74 ' 7.3.34 ' 3544 43.34 33-N 63+ All
Age Class
Figure 2. Total Outdoor Recreation Hours per
Capita of Minnesota by Age Class, 1985.
Although the 7-14 age group leads in the amount of
time dedicated to outdoor recreational activities, it
is important to note that even though the younger
age group spend more time per capita recreating,
the shear numbers of people associated with the
"aging" population will undoubtedly greatly affect
the demand for recreational facilities geared toward
an older population. As such, participation rates,
which are key factors in determining facility needs,
are expected to change over the next decade to
coincide with the change in user demographics,
creating higher demand for adult recreational
facilities.
As Figure 3 illustrates, the activities showing the
largest percentage increases in hours between 1985
/ and 2000 are those which coincide with�he activities
'L
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
most often associated with the older age groups.
Percent Change
20
16
12
-4
�e N b{ ee be as .. o• g e f 4 l t t 1
�a �e 4+ Z t.•�vP• i+ ew,c� �� 4 �°h�~q�t • �' o3`c• st ,ecd�oti�
c.
v�T q R}`O •J• e4 �} 1,1
4• ry• j� t
Activity
Figure 3. Percent Change in Minnesotans' Outdoor
Recreation Hours in Minnesota, 1985-2000.
As indicated, walking/hiking, golfing, and nature
study/observation will lead the way in increased
participation rates and, concurrently, increase the
demand for those type of facilities. Activities such as
fishing, hunting, and camping are popular across a
wide span of age groups and as such are expected to
increase at about the rate of population growth
within the state.
As Figure 4 illustrates, the activities with the largest
absolute increases in hours by the year 2000 tend to
be those with the largest percentage increases as
well.
Fishing-14%
Driving-10%
Other.9%
(11 activities*)
Nature
Golfing -SW i Hunting4%
Boating.5%
' One additional activity shows a decrease for this dine period.
Note- Hours projected to increase a net 83.6 million hours from
1985-2000. Total hours in 2000 r: 930.9 million.
Figure 4. Increase in Mmnesotan' Outdoor
Recreation Hours in Minnesota by Activity, 1985-
2000.
Also important to note is that the much of the
increased growth in recreation hours will happen
within the greater metro area for several reasons,
including:
• the changing distribution of the population.
• a growing population in the metro area and
surrounding counties.
• the propensity for Minnesota residents to spend
most of their recreating time within a half hour
of home.
As such, it is understandable that the greatest need
for additional recreational facilities will occur within
the greater metro area, in which the City of Lino
Lakes is part of.
To help further define were the greatest recreation
facilities need lies, a survey was undertaken to
determine how important the various outdoor
recreation facilities ark to Minnesota residents.
City of Lino Lakes
Figure 5 illustrates the survey results.
VERY
soMOmWNAT
S
TACILITY IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT
1
Natural park areas
51.9
33.1
91.0
2
Wildlife a nature observation
33.1
35.8
' 88.9
3
Walking paths
31.4
32.3
83.1
4
Picnic grounds
30.2
52.1
82.4
S
Nature a history interpretation
33.5
49.6
$2.1
6
swimming beaches
41.0
32.8
81.2
7
Lake accesses
45.3
33.0
76.3
8
Bicycle paths a trails
37.1
39.5
17.5
9
Paved shoulders for bikes
50.7
25.4
16.1
10
Plower gardens
30.0
44.8
74.0
11
Campgrounds
41.0
31.3
72.3
12
Hiking trails
34.4
37.2
71.6
13
Athletic fields.
34.9
35.2
70.1
14
Skating a hockoy rinks
21.6
40.2
61.8
15
Shore fishing areas
37.3
32.3
69.7
16
River i stream access
30.3
34.5
64.7
17
XC ski trails
26.7
31.4
63.1
18
Playgrounds
32.5
27.5
60.0
19
Swimming pools
27.6
30.5
.11
20
Downhill ski areas
19.6
32.4
52.0
21
Tennis courts
17.1
34.5
51.6
22
Golf courses
22.6
29.2
50.8
23
Naterfowl hunting areas
26.4
21.0
47.4
24
snowmobile trails
16.6
24.1
40.6
25
Big gas*hunting areas
25.2
15.3
40.5
26
Basketball courts
12.4
26.3
38.7
27
Horseback trails
11.8
26.3
30.1
28
Upland game hunting areas
18.1
17.6
35.1
29
shooting ranges
10.2
19.2
29.4
30
ATV trails a areas
8.8
25.8
24.6
31
yield dog training areas
5.5
14.6
20.1
32
scuba diving areas
3.2
14.8
12.9
33
4ND trails a areas
5.7
11.5
17.2
St Statewide rank -order of IMPORTANT
Figure 5. Importance of Various Outdoor
Recreation Facilities to Minnesota Residents.
As is apparent, Minnesota residents fondness for
nature and the outdoors is very pronounced.
Review of a public opinion survey on natural
resource issues conducted by the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources in 1988 also adds
insight as to Minnesota residents' perspective on
preservation of natural resources. Of those surveyed,
the following results emerged:
76.2% indicated that the loss of wetlands is a
problem in Minnesota. Of that percentage,
68.7% indicated that the problem was either
moderate or severe.
• 86.4% indicated that water quality of lakes,
rivers, and streams was a problem in Minnesota.
Of that percentage, 79.2% indicated that the
problem was either moderate or severe.
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
• 82.2% indicated that the state should purchase
abandoned railroad lines for hiking, biking, and
snowmobile trails.
• 56.0% indicated that the outdoor recreation
facilities built by the State are becoming run
down.
• 82.6% indicated that the State or Federal
Government should spend more money on the
overall management of the SL Croix, Minnesota,
and Mississippi Rivers in the metro area.
• 37.8% indicated that local units of government
should take the lead in dealing with natural
resource matters in the Twin Cities Metropolitan
area. (18.7% Regional, 42.1% State)
Community Survey
In 1988 a community survey was undertaken by Lee
Mehrkens Management Consultants to determine
residents' attitude about the community on quite a
number of issues, including parks and recreation.
It is not our intention to reiterate all of the findings
that the survey generated about the community.
Instead, it is our intention to look specifically at the
issues that are likely to have a direct impact on the
development of the park system. However,
interested readers are encouraged to obtain a copy
of the survey results (available at City Hall) to
enhance their understanding of the communities
attitude on a wider variety of issues.
The results of the survey provide a statistically
reliable information base about the residents'
attitudes and perceptions toward the community as
well as parks and recreation.
Survey Summary:
CI
the five most hiahly desired additions to park
facilities and activities (within 1- 5 years) were:
1) hiking/walking/jogging trails.
2) bicycling trails.
3) youth recreation program.
4) teen recreation programs.
5) restrooms in parks.
the five least desired additions to park facilities
and activities (within 1 - 5 years) were:
1) indoor ice arena.
2) outdoor swimming pool.
3) indoor swimming pool
4) snowmobile trails.
5) exercise courses.
• the results indicate that a majority of residents
(50% or more) desire trails, recreation
programs, and restrooms in parks to be
improved or developed within 1 - 5 years.
• nearly one-third of the residents reported that
they never want an indoor ice arena or
indoor/outdoor swimming pool to be developed
in Lino Lakes.
• opinions were split on the need for a park
improvement tax increase. Approximately half of
the respondents did not support a tax increase
for this purpose, while the other half did support
some type of increase.
• forty-six percent of the respondents did not
support any tax increase. However, another
forty-six percent did support some type of
increase, ranging from $10.00 to $40.00 per year.
• by one of the largest majorities found in this
survey (65%), residents overwhelmingly
responded that recreation programs should be
funded through user fees. Twenty-one percent
believed that recreation programs should be
financed by both property taxes and user fees.
Only 1% indicated that recreation programs
should be paid for by property taxes.
I
City of Lino Lakes
topping the list of the best things about Lino
Lakes were natural open spaces, small town,
rural atmosphere, people, peace and quiet, trees
and wildlife, and good location within metro
area.
Figure 6. City Park and Recreation Facilities and
Activities Ratings illustrates the rating of various
park facilities and activities.
Park System Planning
Advisory Committee
One of the Park System Planning Advisory
Committee's primary responsibilities in this planning
exercise is to help define the many issues which are
pertinent to the future development of the park
system. Very early on in the planning process the
Committee participated in a number of focus
meetings for this purpose.
The Committee's input during these meetings was
valuable for a couple of reasons.
First, it allowed for an opportunity to review and
more clearly define the issues brought out by some
of the other sources previously highlighted.
Secondly, it provided for an opportunity to discuss
and define relevant issues within a more singular
parks and recreation context.
In addition to the issues that have already been
addressed in this section, the Park System Planning
Advisory Committee brought out a number of key
issues and concerns which will undoubtedly impact
many aspects of this planning effort.
Park System Advisory Committee Statements:
• Provide (in a cost effective manner --, possible)
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lake's Parks and Recreation Needs
City of Lino Lakes
Figure 6. City Park and Recreation Fatalities and Activities Ratings
RATING OF
CITY PARK FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES
The following table ranks the ten park facilities and activities most desired within 1-5
years by age group.
Ba0(t
All Aces
Afles 5-45
B9es 46-60
Ages Over 60
1.
Hiking/Walking/
Bicycling Trails
Hiking/Walking/
Restroom in Parks
Jogging Trails
Jogging Trails
2.
Bicycling Trails
Hiking/Walking/
Teen Recreation
Hiking/Walking/
Jogging Trails
Jogging Trails
3.
Youth Recreation
Youth Recreation
Youth Recreation.
Youth Recreation
4.
Teen Recreation
Teen Recreation
Bicycling Trails
Teen Recreation
S.
Restrooms in Parks
Restrooms in Parks
Restrooms in Parks
Bicycling Trails
6.
Playground Equipment
Playground Equipment
Senior Recreation
Senior Recreation
7.
Cross -Country Skiing
Cross -Country Skiing
Cross -Country Skiing
Nature Study Area
Trails
Trails
Trails
8.
Picnic Grounds with
Picnic Grounds with
Adult Recreation
Picnic Shelter Bldgs.
Grills
Grills
9
Senior Recreation
Softball Fields
Picnic Grounds with
Picnic Grounds with
Grills
Grills
10.
Adult Recreation
Adult Recreation
Picnic Shelter Bldgs.
Adult Recreation
Source: Lee M(rkens Management Consultants
RATING OF
CITY PARK FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES
The following table lists those services least
desired (never) to those services
most
desired (in percentage).
5-10
1.5
No
Never
Sometime
Ye=
Yeats
Opinion
Indoor Ice Arena
37
21
9
14
18
Outdoor Swimming Pool
32
20
10
20
18
Indoor Swimming Pool (tie)
29
23
12
18
18
Snowmobile Trails (tie)
29
16
9
26
20
Exercise Courses
20
20
13
26
21
Horseback Riding Trails
19
22
13
21
25
Archery Field
18
24
13
17
28
Volleyball Courts (tie)
16
28
11
14
31
Horseshoe Courts (tie)
16
27
12
17
28
Community Center (tie)
15
29
16
17
23
Basketball Courts (tie)
15
25
17
20
23
Fishing Piers
14
21
14
30
21
Football/Soccer Fields
12
28
14
22
24
Tennis Courts
11
27
16
26
20
Picnic Shelter Bldgs. (tie)
9
24
15
35
17
Picnic Grounds with Grills (tie)
9
24
12
38
17
Baseball Fields (tie)
9
25
16
28
22
Nature Study Area
9
20
16
33
22
Cross -Country Skiing Trails (tie)
8
is
13
47
17
Adult Recreation Programs (tie)
8
21
13
36
22
Softball Fields (tie)
7
24
15
35
19
Senior Recreation Programs (tie)
7
21
12
37
23
Restrooms in Parks (tie)
6
17
9
55
13
Playground Equipment (tie)
6
17
11
49
17
Bicycling Trails (tie)
6
10
11
62
11
Hiking/Walking/Jogging Trails (tie)
5
10
11
63
11
Youth Recreation Programs (tie)
5
13
6
59
17
Teen Recreation Programs (tie)
5
13
8
56
18
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
a comprehensive, balanced, well maintained
system of parks, open spaces, trails, and
recreation programs for all City residents to use
and enjoy a quality recreational experience.
• Maintain "rural", natural, and open space
character. Provide adequate parks, open space,
recreational facilities, and linkage (trails) system
to meet City needs. Proper planning decisions
should be made to achieve these objectives.
• Develop a clear mission which guides the overall
development of the park system and projects a
unified and consistent community image.
• Provide a balance between passive and active
recreational spaces. Develop the park system in
a manner which is sensitive to the natural
ecology of the land. Strive to be good stewards
of the land.
• Develop a positive working partnership with the
local school districts, surrounding communities
and Anoka County.
City to School District and City to City Interaction:
Clearly defined policies and joint -use agreements
need to be developed and implemented. The level
of use of City parks and recreation facilities by the
three school districts and adjacent Cities needs to
be clearly defined and used, in part, as a basis for
determining the actual parks and recreational
facilities demands. Concerns related to joint
funding, park maintenance responsibilities,
community education programs, shared benefit of
facilities, etc. should be addressed and acted upon
as appropriate. Servicing the needs of City residents
verses servicing the needs of the school districts and
adjacent Cities needs to be addressed.
City to Metropolitan Council/Anoka County
Interaction: The impact that these public bodies
(and their respective plans and policies) have on
future development within Lino Lakes should be
reviewed and acted upon as appropriate. Future
development plZs for regional parks and associated
trail corridors need to be reviewed and considered
(Anoka County is the implementing agency). Shared
benefit of the proceeds and use of the golf course
was cited as an important issue. On -going
interaction should be sought in order to assure that
duplication of facilities is avoided.
Funding: Where are we going to get it? When are
we going to need it? How much is it going to cost
to develop the system? How are we going to off-
set anticipated funding losses from State and
Federal funding sources? Etc.? Funding sources
which were cited as possibilities included league
fees, user fees, concessions, "green fees" or other
form of remuneration (compensation) associated
with the golf course, and charitable "gambling"
contributions. The feasibility of these sources should
be determined. Revenue producing facilities (such
as a golf course) should be explored as potential
sources of revenue.
Priorities: The future development of the parks and
recreational facilities need to be prioritized as to
their importance to the community and overall park
system.
Park Sites and Facilities Cost/Benefit The cost
effectiveness of providing certain park sites and/or
facilities should be reviewed to determine if the
community is receiving the optimal return on it's
investment.
Park Land Dedication Policy: Parks and Recreation
Commission's role in the process of establishing
policy/guidelines for park land dedication and
negotiations for purchase needs reviewing and
updating as appropriate. Concern was expressed
that the current park dedication formula resulted in
developers desiring to give cash rather than land for
park dedication purposes, perhaps eluding to an
imbalance in land values vs. park dedication monies.
Wetlands/Storm Water Holding Ponds/Water
Quality. Policies and administrative procedures
(jurisdiction) related to wetlands, storm water
ponds, etc. and how thr interact with the overall
City of Lino Lakes
park system should be reviewed and updated as
appropriate. Issues related to water quality should
be addressed and acted upon as appropriate.
Preservation of Significant Natural Resources:
Significant natural resource areas (i.e., woodlots,
lakes, marshes/wetlands, etc.) should be identified,
documented, and integrated into the park system
plan as appropriate. The current land already set
aside for parks at the county/regional level provides
a significant "base" in which to build on.
Linkage (Trails) System: A comprehensive trail
system needs to be planned and implemented.
Current policies should be reviewed and updated as
appropriate. Types of trails, design standards, access
points, connection to regional parks, etc. need to be
reviewed. Trail crossings at intersections, across
roadways, and between adjacent park sites are often
dangerous and should be reviewed. Safety of
crossings is a growing concern as the size of the
City expands. Barriers to use of the trails need to be
identified and rectified as appropriate.
Park System Classifications/Standards: A
classification system should be developed which
defines the different types, numbers, sizes, and
purposes of parks within the overall park system.
Standards should be established to define the type
of facilities/activities that are appropriate for each
of the park classifications. Existing park sites should
be evaluated as to their "fit" within the overall park
system. The "orientation" (i.e., passive vs. active,
adult vs. children, etc.) of each park site, both old
and new, needs to be evaluated. The ability to meet
the changing needs (i.e., "adaptability") of specific
neighborhoods and the community as a whole were
cited as a specific concern. The idea of a
"Community Center" which provides a space for
community/social events should be explored to
determine it's feasibility and appropriateness.
"Community Center" does not necessarily mean an
indoor facility.
Community Development The proper balance
between parks/open spaces/nature / Yeas and
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
community development areas needs to be
addressed to assure that overall community
development goals are considered.
Recreational Trends/Project Future Recreational
Needs: Anticipated trends in recreation should be
reviewed and analyzed to determine what impacts
these trends will have on the future development of
the park system. Future park and recreation facility
needs (based on trends analysis, recreational needs
assessments, and demographic profiles) should be
projected in order to develop an understanding as to
future funding requirements.
Communication/Marketing: Develop strategies for
communicating with the City residents about the
park system, programs, etc. (i.e., "get the word out").
A Park/Trail Map which clearly illustrates park
locations/facilities and trail types/corridors was
considered an important communication tool which
should be developed.
Signal. Development of a signage program which
clearly defines the parks, trails, etc.
City Staff: The level of staffing required to
effectively and efficiently run the park system and
recreational programs needs to be reviewed. The
possible need for a designated Parks and Recreation
Director also needs to be evaluated. The level and
effectiveness of the interaction and cooperation
between City departments needs to be evaluated
(i.e., such as the efficient use of available staffing
and a defined decision making process).
Quality of Life: Maintaining (or enhancing) the
quality of life in Lino Lakes is a very important
concern with respect to future City development.
The park and recreation system is considered one of
the most important aspects of maintaining the
quality of life residents have come to expect.
Parks Commission: Active, supportive group who
work well with other agencies. Seek the opportunity
to become more pro -active in the development of
the park system such as increased responsibility in
park dedication issues, etc. Interested in the
opportunity to be involved in the planning process.
Community/City Council/Public Planning Bodies:
Parks and recreation are strong and important
priorities within the City. The City Council reflects
this positive attitude. Although fiscal constraints
make it difficult for the City to fund all of the
potential park projects at any given time, the City
residents still maintain a positive attitude about
future development and show a willingness to seek
creative solutions to funding limitations (such as
using volunteers to perform park maintenance
projects, etc). Interaction and cooperation between
public planning bodies is also an important factor in
assuring the success of the park system.
Environmental Awareness/Movement: The
community, as a whole, is concerned about the
environment and the protection of natural
resources. As such, policies should be adopted
which protect the environment and natural
resources of the area.
Park Maintenance: In general, park maintenance is
considered good when considering the budgetary
and staffing limitations that the City must work
under.
Athletic Organizations/Youth Groups: Involved and
ambitious athletic/youth groups greatly enhance the
communities enthusiasm for parks, recreation
facilities, and programs. They also provide a
sounding board for developmental issues. Assisting
in the maintenance of the recreational facilities is
also an opportunity for these groups to contribute to
the future enhancement of the park and recreation
system.
Recreation Programming: Recreation programs and
programming should be evaluated as to their overall
effectiveness in serving the entire population. The
perception exists that there are some imbalances in
the availability of recreation programs. Programs
oriented toward passive as well as active activities
should be considered.
City of Lino Lakes
Volunteer Organizations: Given the residents'
interest and concern about the betterment of the
City, opportunities exists for expanding the role that
volunteers and volunteer organizations can play in
the overall maintenance and upkeep of the park
system. Adopt -a -park and plant -a -tree programs can
be very effective in enhancing the overall appeal of
the park system and a great opportunity to keep the
City residents more intimately involved in the park
system and issues that effect it.
Funding/Maintenance (Day -To -Day): Limited
funding and staffing creates a situation were the day
to day maintenance of parks is difficult to
accomplish. Reliance more on volunteer efforts may
be an opportunity to off -set some of the funding and
staffing limitations.
Park System Planning Document: Not having a park
system planning document makes it difficult to
understand all the issues which effect the
development of the park system and the
responsibilities of the various governing agencies
and staff. As one questionnaire submittal pointed
out, "failing to plan is planning to fail."
Passive Use Facilities: Lack of passive use facilities
(i.e., walking/hiking, picnic areas, seating areas,
nature areas, etc.) exists. More attention needs to
be paid to a wider range of age groups.
Lack of Recreational Facilities/Amenities: Lack of
recreational facilities/amenities, such as ballfields,
soccer fields, hockey rinks, etc., is an important
concern and needs to be evaluated.
Community Character: With respect to concerns
about future community/population growth, the
consensus amongst the group was that maintaining:
the unique rural and natural open space character;
providing adequate parks, open space, recreational
facilities, and linkage (trails) system; and making
proper planning decisions which achieve these
objectives was their major concerns about future
community growth. How fast and hr, much the
1
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
community grows in the future was not as big a
concern as making sure that future development is
done in a planned and pragmatic manner whereby
the outcome of development and its effect on the
City can be reasonably understood np 'or to it
becoming reality. This attitude is as important when
considering parks and recreation development as it
is when considering overall City development.
Naturally, coordinating the park system plan with
other public facilities plans should be undertaken as
part of the planning process.
Public Meetings: Meetings should be held to give
City residents an opportunity to participate in the
planning process. Special attention should be given
to specific issues and specific groups/interests to
encourage more participation. "Advertising" of
meeting agendas, dates, etc. was also suggested.
Parks and Recreation Survey. The possibility of
implementing a survey geared exclusively toward
parks and recreation issues should be considered
and used as deemed appropriate. Specific attention
should be given to gaining input from various age
groups as apposed to "head of household" only.
Continuing Community Involvement/Interaction:
Involvement of residents in the planning and
development process on an on -going basis needs to
be addressed. Communication with the City
residents must be established and maintained
throughout the planning process (and beyond).
Private Recreation Facilities: The impact that
private recreation providers have on the park system
should be addressed in order to understand the
overall "picture" as to what type of recreational
facilities (public and private) are available to City
residents and avoidance of unnecessary duplication
of facilities wherever possible. This includes private
facilities such as playlots which have been developed
for private use.
Indoor Facilities: Address the potential/need for
indoor facilities such as a hockey arena, community
center, etc. Th( demand for park "shelters" and
multi -use buildings (i.e., warming house, summer
activities, etc.) should also be considered.
Summer Family Events: The need for more summer
family events should be addressed.
Beautification: The need for an overall parks
"beautification" program was also expressed in the
questionnaire submittals.
Park Security/Safety. Park security and general
park/trail safety needs to be considered. Specific
approaches to enhancing park security and safety
need to be developed. Safety in this instance is
defined as both personal safety (i.e., personal
attacks, robbery, etc.) and safe surroundings (i.e.,
separation of bikes from cars, handicap access to
parks, etc.)
Public Meeting
Not undertaken at this time.......
Summary Statements
The preceding information from the various sources
provides an important perspective about City
resident's attitude toward the community and their
expectations about the quality of the park system
and the quality of life within the community.
Looking forward, the long term success of this
planning effort will be based to a large extent on:
• whether or not the City residents continue to
believe that the a quality park system enhances
the quality of life I ' z the community.
City of Lino Lakes
a willingness by the residents of the City to
invest in the City's future growth and vitality.
• a committed and persistent effort by the various
governing bodies, City staff, and, most
importantly, the residents themselves to see the
Park System Plan through the implementation
phases.
Given this "criteria for success, the importance of
assessing the needs and attitudes of the City
residents and then using that information as the
impetus and driving force in developing the park
system plan can not be overstated.
With this perspective in mind, the information
gathered from the various sources will, in affect, be
used as a "check list" of issues which will, in some
form or fashion, have an impact on this planning
exercise and the development of the park system
plan.
Although there is a temptation to summarize the
findings of this section in a concise paragraph or
two, it is perhaps most prudent to refrain from this
as to avoid leaving out important issues which may
otherwise be missed.
Finally, it is important to recognize that a planning
effort such as this is not static but instead in a state
of constant change and evolution. Our purpose with
this study is to set the process in motion so that the
demands of today, based on our educated
perceptions of the community, will be adequately
addressed without forfeiting the opportunity to
adjust to the demands of the future. Is essence, this
planning effort is the beginning as opposed to an
end of a long and involved planning process.
a
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
4Q
Section 2
Assessment of Lino Lakes's Parks and Recreation Needs
Overview
As Lino Lakes develops and prospers, concerns
about the surrounding environment, open space, and
personal living space become increasingly more
important to individuals and families residing within
the community. In many respects, an individuals
perceptions as to the quality of life within a
community is directly and indirectly correlated to
the quality of the park system and open spaces that
surrounds them.
For any park and recreation system to be successful,
it must be developed in a manner in which it fulfills
the physical, psychological, and recreational
expectations of those it is intended to serve.
In this instance, the term "parks and recreation
system" is int( aed to be viewed in a broader
context which includes not only parks and open
spaces per se, but urban spaces, trails, greenways,
streetscapes, schools, wetlands, water bodies, nature
areas, reforestation/beautification programs,
historical preservation, etc. as well.
It should also be kept in mind that some of the
issues which are addressed in this section (as well as
others) go beyond park system planning and
therefore require both input and guidance from
other public bodies.
In assessing Lino Lakes's park and recreational
needs it is important to consider information from
a variety of sources. Doing so will enhance our
knowledge of projected trends in recreation
participation as well as allow for a more thorough
understanding of the recreational needs and
developmental concerns of City residents.
In this instance, the following sources where
selected because they provide information which
addresses relevant parks_ and recreation concerns
City of Lino Lakes
and provide insight into the issues confronting the
City of Lino Lakes.
Information Sources
• Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation
Plan (SCORP) for 1990-1994.
• Community Opinion Survey, 1988.
• Park System Planning Advisory Committee.
• Public Meetings
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
recreate outdoors an average of 225 hours per
capita per year.
Statewide Perspective on Trends in
Outdoor Recreation Patterns - Diking -12%
and Participation Rates
Fish*4%
To fully understand and assess the parks and Driving - 8alking/Hiking
recreational needs of the community, it is important8%
to review actual and projected trends in recreational
patterns and participation rates from a broader,
statewide perspective. This will allow for a clearer Swimming - 6her - 22%
picture to emerge about recreational trends and activities)
provide insight as to the general attitudes toward Boating
environmental issues.
HuntMuch of the forth -coming information was compiled Nature Obby the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Golfing -3% amping .3%
and Travel & Economic Development and
published as part of the Statewide Comprehensive Figure L Minnesotans' Outdoor Recreation Hours
Outdoor Recreation (SCORP) Plan for 1990-1994. per Capita Activity, 1985.
According to the SCORP Plan, it is anticipated that
the huge growth in the past decade in outdoor
recreation appears to be slowing. This is, from one
perspective, perhaps a blessing since the current
demand already exceeds the capacity of the existing
recreational facilities. Additionally, free time has
increased, albeit slightly, in recent years (free time
is defined as the time not occupied with work, sleep,
and personal care). This increase in free time will
most likely increase the time that individuals spend
in recreational pursuits, thus increasing the demand
on current facilities.
During 1985 and 1986 a random state-wide survey
was undertaken in an attempt to determine the level
of participation of Minnesota residents in a variety
of outdoor activities.
As Figure 1 illustrates, walking/hiking, biking,
fishing, and driving had the highest participation
rates. Its interesting to note that Minnesotans
City of Lino Lakes
As Figure 2 illustrates, age plays a significant role in
the total number of hours per capita that Minnesota
residents participate in outdoor recreational
activities.
Hours/ Capita
7-14 15.24 '25-34. 35.44 45-54 55.64 65+ All
Age Class
Figure 2. Total Outdoor Recreation Hours per
Capita of Minnesota by Age Class, 1985.
Although the 7-14 age group leads in the amount of
time dedicated to outdoor recreational activities, it
is important to note that even though the younger
age group spend more time per capita recreating,
the shear numbers of people associated with the
"aging" population will undoubtedly greatly affect
the demand for recreational facilities geared toward
an older population. As such, participation rates,
which are key factors in determining facility needs,
are expected to change over the next decade to
coincide with the change in user demographics,
creating higher demand for adult recreational
facilities.
As Figure 3 illustrates, the activities showing the
largest percentage increases in hours between 1985
and 2000 are those which coincide with the activities
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
most often associated with the older age groups.
Percent Change
20
i6
t2
-4
+'k p 44P yb.••E1v V•0,$ •� Vo •F� (p y++0�'� •• F..• aad
3 0• u'i' �•°fie'' otir
F ac cf Ai .
1� • 14 Q ? ♦ �j� O
ti• t� 4
Activity
Figure 3. Percent Change in Minnesotans' Outdoor
Recreation Hours in Minnesota, 1985-2000.
As indicated, walking/hiking, golfing, and nature
study/observation will lead the way in increased
participation rates and, concurrently, increase the
demand for those type of facilities. Activities such as
fishing, hunting, and camping are popular across a
wide span of age groups and as such are expected to
increase at about the rate of population growth
within the state.
As Figure 4 illustrates, the activities with the largest
absolute increases in hours by the year 2000 tend to
be those with the largest percentage increases as
well.
Fishing-14%
Driving-10%
\ Other•9%
(11 aetivitks•)
Nature Observation-6%' OwMuUcg-47
Slghtseeiag-4%
GoInng.5% Hunting-4%
Boating•5%
• One additional activity shows a decrease for this time period.
Note: Hours projected to increase a net 83.6 million hours from
1985-2000. Total hours in 2000 - 930.9 million.
Figure 4. Increase in Minnesotan! Outdoor
Recreation Hours in Minnesota by Activity, 1985-
2".
Also important to note is that the much of the
increased growth in recreation hours will happen
within the greater metro area for several reasons,
including:
• the changing distribution of the population.
• a growing population in the metro area and
surrounding counties.
• the propensity for Minnesota residents to spend
most of their recreating time within a half hour
f home.
As such, it is understandable that the greatest need
for additional recreational facilities will occur within
the greater metro area, in which the City of Lino
Lakes is part of.
To help further define were the greatest recreation
facilities need lies, a survey was undertaken to
determine how important the various outdoor
recreation facilities are to Minnesota residents.
City of Lino Lakes
Figure 5 illustrates the survey results.
..
VERY
SOMEWHAT
S
rACILITY IMPORTANT IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT
1
Natural park areas
S1.9
33.1
91.0
2
Wildlife 6 nature observation
$3.1
35.0
. 80.9
3
Walking paths
51.4
32.3
83.7
4
Picnic grounds
30.2
S2.1
02.4
5
Nature 6 history interpretation
33.5
48.6
A2.1
1Swimming
beaches
49.0
32.8
81.8
7
Lake accesses
45.3
33.0
18.3
8
Bicycle paths 6 trails
37.9
39.5
77.5
9
Paved shoulders for bikes
50.7
25.4
16.1
10
rlower gardens
30.0
44.0
14.8
11
Campgrounds
41.0
31.3
12.3
12
Hiking trails
34.4
37.2
11.6
13
Athletic fields.
34.9
35.2
70.1
14
Skating a hockey rinks
29.6
40.2
69.8
1S
Shore fishing areas
37.3
32.3
69.7
16
River 6 stream access
30.3
34.5
14.7
17
XC ski trails
26.7
36.4
63.1
18
Playgrounds
32.5
21.5
10.0
19
Swimmingq pools
27.6
30.5
SA.1
20
Downhill ski areas
19.6
32.4
52.0
21
Tannis courts
11.1
34.5
51.6
22
Golf courses
21.1
29.2
50.6
23
Waterfowl hunting areas
26.4
21.0
47.4
24
Snowmobile trails
16.6
24.1
40.6
25
ig Qame hunting areas
Bke
25.2
15.3
40.5
26
Bastball courts
12.4
26.3
30.7
27
Horseback trails
11.8
26.3
38.1
28
Upland game hunting areas
18.1
17.6
35.7
29
Shooting ranges
10.2
19.2
29.4
30
ATV trails a areas
8.8
15.8
24.1
31
rield dog training areas
5.5
14.6
20.1
32
Scuba diving areas
5.2
14.8
12.9
33
4WD trails 6 areas
5.7
11.5
17.2
St Statowida rank -order of IMPORTANT
Figure 5. Importance of Various Outdoor
Recreation Facilities to Minnesota Residents.
As is apparent, Minnesota residents fondness for
nature and the outdoors is very pronounced.
Review of a public opinion survey on natural
resource issues conducted by the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources in 1988 also adds
insight as to Minnesota residents' perspective on
preservation of natural resources. Of those surveyed,
the following results emerged:
76.2% indicated that the loss of wetlands is a
problem in Minnesota. Of that percentage,
68.7% indicated that the problem was either
moderate or severe.
• 86.4% indicated that water quality of lakes,
rivers, and streams was a problem in Minnesota.
Of that percentage, 79.2% indicated that the
problem was either moderate or severe.
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
• 82.2% indicated that the state should purchase
abandoned railroad lines for hiking, biking, and
snowmobile trails.
• 56.0% indicated that the outdoor recreation
facilities built by the State are becoming run
down.
• 82.6% indicated that the State or Federal
Government should spend more money on the
overall management of the St. Croix, Minnesota,
and Mississippi Rivers in the metro area.
37.8% indicated that local units of government
should take the lead in dealing with natural
resource matters in the Twin Cities Metropolitan
area. (18.7% Regional, 42.1% State)
Community Survey
In 1988 a community survey was undertaken by Lee
Mehrkens Management Consultants to determine
residents' attitude about the community on quite a
number of issues, including parks and recreation.
It is not our intention to reiterate all of the findings
that the survey generated about the community.
Instead, it is our intention to look specifically at the
issues that are likely to have a direct impact on the
development of the park system. However,
interested readers are encouraged to obtain a copy
of the survey results (available at City Hall) to
enhance their understanding of the communities
attitude on a wider variety of issues.
The results of the survey provide a statistically
reliable information base about the residents'
attitudes and perceptions toward the community as
well as parks and recreation.
Survey Summary.
the five most hiv ilv desired additions to park
facilities and activities (within 1- 5 years) were:
1) hiking/waLking/jog trails.
2) bicycling trails.
3) youth recreation program.
4) teen recreation programs.
5) restrooms in parks.
the five least desired additions to park facilities
and activities (within 1 - 5 years) were:
1) indoor ice arena.
2) outdoor swimming pool.
3) indoor swimming pool
4) snowmobile trails.
5) exercise courses.
• the results indicate that a majority of residents
(50% or more) desire trails, recreation
programs, and restrooms in parks to be
improved or developed within 1 - 5 years.
• nearly one-third of the residents reported that
they never want an indoor ice arena or
indoor/outdoor swimming pool to be developed
in Lino Lakes.
• opinions were split on the need for a park
improvement tax increase. Approximately half of
the respondents did not support a tax increase
for this purpose, while the other half did support
some type of increase.
• forty-six percent of the respondents did not
support any tax increase. However, another
forty-six percent did support some type of
increase, ranging from $10.00 to $40.00 per year.
• by one of the largest majorities found in this
survey (65%), residents overwhelmingly
responded that recreation programs should be
funded through user fees. Twenty-one percent
believed that recreation programs should be
financed by both property taxes and user fees.
Only 1% indicated that recreation programs
should be paid for by property taxes.
C
City of Lino Lakes
topping the list of the best things about Lino
Lakes were natural open spaces, small town,
rural atmosphere, people, peace and quiet, trees
and wildlife, and good location within metro
area.
Figure 6. City Park and Recreation Facilities and
Activities Ratings illustrates the rating of various
park facilities and activities.
Park System Planning
Advisory Committee
One of the Park System Planning Advisory
Committee's primary responsibilities in this planning
exercise is to help define the many issues which are
pertinent to the future development of the park
system. Very early on in the planning process the
Committee participated in a number of focus
meetings for this purpose.
The Committee's input during these meetings was
valuable for a couple of reasons.
First, it allowed for an opportunity to review and
more clearly define the issues brought out by some
of the other sources previously highlighted.
Secondly, it provided for an opportunity to discuss
and define relevant issues within a more singular
parks and recreation context.
In addition to the issues that have already been
addressed in this section, the Park System Planning
Advisory Committee brought out a number of key
issues and concerns which will undoubtedly impact
many aspects of this planning effort.
Park System Advisory Committee Statements:
• Provide (in a cost effective manner
as possible)
1
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lake's Parks and Recreation Needs
City of Lino Lakes
Figure 6. City Park and Recreation Facilities and Activities Ratings
RATING OF
CITY PARK FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES
The following table ranks the ten park facilities and activities most desired within 1-5
years by age group.
Batik
All Aaes
Ages 25-45
Anes 46-60
Anes Over 60
1.
Hiking/Walking/
Bicycling Trails
Hiking/Walking/
Restroom in Parks
Jogging Trails
Jogging Trails
2.
Bicycling Trails
Hiking Walking/
Teen Recreation
Hiking/Walking/
Jogging Trails
Jogging Trails
3.
Youth Recreation
Youth Recreation
Youth Recreation.
Youth Recreation
4.
Teen Recreation
Teen Recreation
Bicycling Trails
Teen Recreation
5.
Restrooms in Parks
Restrooms in Parks
Restrooms In Parks
Bicycling Trails
6.
Playground Equipment Playground Equipment
Senior Recreation
Senior Recreation
7.
Cross -Country Skiing
Cross -Country Skiing
Cross -Country Skiing
Nature Study Area
Trails
Trails
Trails
8.
Picnic Grounds with
Picnic Grounds with
Adult Recreation
Picnic Shelter Bldgs.
Grills
Grills
9
Senior Recreation
Softball Fields
Picnic Grounds with
Picnic Grounds with
Grills
Grills
10.
Adult Recreation
Adult Recreation
Picnic Shelter Sldgs.
Adult Recreation
Source: Lee Mehrkens Management Consultants
RATING OF
CITY PARK FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES
The following table lists those services least desired (never) to those services
most
desired (in percentage).
5.10
1-5
No
Never
Sometime
YEdtS
%eats
Opinion
Indoor Ice Arena
37
21
9
14
18
Outdoor Swimming Pool
32
20
10
20
18
Indoor Swimming Pool (tie)
29
23
12
18
18
Snowmobile Trails (tie)
29
16
9
26
20
Exercise Courses
20
20
13
26
21
Horseback Riding Trails
19
22
13
21
25
Archery Fleld
18
24
13
17
28
Volleyball Courts (tie)
16
28
11
14
31
Horseshoe Courts (tie)
16
27
12
17
28
Community Center (tie)
15
29
16
17
23
Basketball Courts (tie)
15
25
17
20
23
Fishing Piers
14
21
14
30
21
Football/Soccer Fields
12
28
14
22
24
Tennis Courts
11
27
16
26
20
Picnic Shelter Bldgs. (tie)
9
24
1s
35
17
Picnic Grounds with Grills (tie)
9
24
12
38
17
Baseball Fields (tie)
9
25
16
28
22
Nature Study Area
9
20
16
33
22
Cross -Country Skiing Trails (tie)
8
15
13
47
17
Adult Recreation Programs (tie)
8
21
13
36
22
Softball Fields (tie)
7
24
15
35
19
Senior Recreation Programs (tie)
7
21
12
37
23
Restr000ms in Parks (tie)
6
17
9
55
13
Playground Equipment (tie)
6
17
11
49
17
Bicycling Trails (tie)
6
10
11
62
11
Hiking/Walking/Jogging Trails (tie)
5
10
11
63
11
Youth Recreation Programs (tie)
5
13
6
59
17
Teen Recreation Programs (tie)
5
13
8
56
18
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
a comprehensive, balanced, well maintained
system of parks, open spaces, trails, and
recreation programs for all City residents to use
and enjoy a quality recreational experience.
• Maintain "rural", natural, and open space
character. Provide adequate parks, open space,
recreational facilities, and linkage (trails) system
to meet City needs. Proper planning decisions
should be made to achieve these objectives.
• Develop a clear mission which guides the overall
development of the park system and projects a
unified and consistent community image.
• Provide a balance between passive and active
recreational spaces. Develop the park system in
a manner_ which is sensitive to the natural
ecology of the land. Strive to be good stewards
of the land.
• Develop a positive working partnership with the
local school districts, surrounding communities
and Anoka County.
City to School District and City to City Interaction:
Clearly defined policies and joint -use agreements
need to be developed and implemented. The level
of use of City parks and recreation facilities by the
three school districts and adjacent Cities needs to
be clearly defined and used, in part, as a basis for
determining the actual parks and recreational
facilities demands. Concerns related to joint
funding, park maintenance responsibilities,
community education programs, shared benefit of
facilities, etc. should be addressed and acted upon
as appropriate. Servicing the needs of City residents
verses servicing the needs of the school districts and
adjacent Cities needs to be addressed.
City to Metropolitan Council/Anoka County
Interaction: The impact that these public bodies
(and their respective plans and policies) have on
future development within Lino Lakes should be
reviewed and acted upon as appropriate. Future
development plans for regional parks and associated
trail corridors need to be reviewed and considered
(Anoka County is the implementing agency). Shared
benefit of the proceeds and use of the golf course
was cited as an important issue. On -going
interaction should be sought in order to assure that
duplication of facilities is avoided.
Funding: Where are we going to get it? When are
we going to need it? How much is it going to cost
to develop the system? How are we going to off-
set anticipated funding losses from State and
Federal funding sources? Etc.? Funding sources
which were cited as possibilities included league
fees, user fees, concessions, "green fees" or other
form of remuneration (compensation) associated
with the golf course, and charitable "gambling"
contributions. The feasibility of these sources should
be determined. Revenue producing facilities (such
as a golf course) should be explored as potential
sources of revenue.
Priorities: The future development of the parks and
recreational facilities need to be prioritized as to
their importance to the community and overall park
system.
Park Sites and Facilities Cost/Benefit The cost
effectiveness of providing certain park sites and/or
facilities should be reviewed to determine if the
community is receiving the optimal return on it's
investment.
Park Land Dedication Policy. Parks and Recreation
Commission's role in the process of establishing
policy/guidelines for park land dedication and
negotiations for purchase needs reviewing and
updating as appropriate. Concern was expressed
that the current park dedication formula resulted in
developers desiring to give cash rather than land for
park dedication purposes, perhaps eluding to an
imbalance in land values vs. park dedication monies.
Wetlands/Storm Water Holding Ponds/Water
Quality. Policies and administrative procedures
(jurisdiction) related to wetlands, storm water
ponds, etc. and how they interact with the overall
3
City of Lino Lakes
park system should be reviewed and updated as
appropriate. Issues related to water quality should
be addressed and acted upon as appropriate.
Preservation of Significant Natural Resources:
Significant natural resource areas (i.e., woodlots,
lakes, marshes/wetlands, etc.) should be identified,
documented, and integrated into the park system
plan as appropriate. The current land already set
aside for parks at the county/regional level provides
a significant "base" in which to build on.
Linkage (Trails) System: A comprehensive trail
system needs to be planned and implemented.
Current policies should be reviewed and updated as
appropriate. Types of trails, design standards, access
points, connection to regional parks, etc. need to be
reviewed. Trail crossings at intersections, across
roadways, and between adjacent park sites are often
dangerous and should be reviewed. Safety of
crossings is a growing concern as the size of the
City expands. Barriers to use of the trails need to be
identified and rectified as appropriate.
Park System Classifications/Standards: A
classification system should be developed which
defines the different types, numbers, sizes, and
purposes of parks within the overall park system.
Standards should be established to define the type
of facilities/activities that are appropriate for each
of the park classifications. Existing park sites should
be evaluated as to their "fit" within the overall park
system. The "orientation" (i.e., passive vs. active,
adult vs. children, etc.) of each park site, both old
and new, needs to be evaluated. The ability to meet
the changing needs (i.e., "adaptability") of specific
neighborhoods and the community as a whole were
cited as a specific concern. The idea of a
"Community Center" which provides a space for
community/social events should be explored to
determine it's feasibility and appropriateness.
"Community Center" does not necessarily mean an
indoor facility.
Community Development The proper balance
between parks/open spaces/nature /areas and
l
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
community development areas needs to be
addressed to assure that overall community
development goals are considered.
Recreational Trends/Project Future Recreational
Needs: Anticipated trends in recreation should be
reviewed and analyzed to determine what impacts
these trends will have on the future development of
the park system. Future park and recreation facility
needs (based on trends analysis, recreational needs
assessments, and demographic profiles) should be
projected in order to develop an understanding as to
future funding requirements.
Communication/Marketing: Develop strategies for
communicating with the City residents about the
park system, programs, etc. (i.e., "get the word out").
A Park/Trail Map which clearly illustrates park
locations/facilities and trail types/corridors was
considered an important communication tool which
should be developed.
Siguage: Development of a signage program which
clearly defines the parks, trails, etc.
City Staff: The level of staffing required to
effectively and efficiently run the park system and
recreational programs needs to be reviewed. The
possible need for a designated Parks and Recreation
Director also needs to be evaluated. The level and
effectiveness of the interaction and cooperation
between City departments needs to be evaluated
(i.e., such as the efficient use of available staffing
and a defined decision making process).
Quality of Life: Maintaining (or enhancing) the
quality of life in Lino Lakes is a very important
concern with respect to future City development.
The park and recreation system is considered one of
the most important aspects of maintaining the
quality of life residents have come to expect.
Parks Commission: Active, supportive group who
work well with other agencies. Seek the opportunity
to become more pro -active in the development of
the park system such as increased responsibility in
park dedication issues, etc. Interested in the
opportunity to be involved in the planning process.
Community/City Council/Public Planning Bodies:
Parks and recreation are strong and important
priorities within the City. The City Council reflects
this positive attitude. Although fiscal constraints
make it difficult for the City to fund all of the
potential park projects at any given time, the City
residents still maintain a positive attitude about
future development and show a willingness to seek
creative solutions to funding limitations (such as
using volunteers to perform park maintenance
projects, etc). Interaction and cooperation between
public planning bodies is also an important factor in
assuring the success of the park system.
Environmental Awareness/Movement: The
community, as a whole, is concerned about the
environment and the protection of natural
resources. As such, policies should be adopted
which protect the environment and natural
resources of the area.
Park Maintenance: In general, park maintenance is
considered good when considering the budgetary
and staffing limitations that the City must work
under.
Athletic Organizations/Youth Groups: Involved and
ambitious athletic/youth groups greatly enhance the
communities enthusiasm for parks, recreation
facilities, and programs. They also provide a
sounding board for developmental issues. Assisting
in the maintenance of the recreational facilities is
also an opportunity for these groups to contribute to
the future enhancement of the park and recreation
system.
Recreation Programming: Recreation programs and
programming should be evaluated as to their overall
effectiveness in serving the entire population. The
perception exists that there are some imbalances in
the availability of recreation programs. Programs
oriented toward passive as well as active activities
should be considered.
City of Lino Lakes
Volunteer Organizations: Given the residents'
interest and concern about the betterment of the
City, opportunities exists for expanding the role that
volunteers and volunteer organizations can play in
the overall maintenance and upkeep of the park
system. Adopt -a -park and plant -a -tree programs can
be very effective in enhancing the overall appeal of
the park system and a great opportunity to keep the
City residents more intimately involved in the park
system and issues that effect it.
Funding/Maintenance (Day -To -Day): Limited
funding and staffing creates a situation were the day
to day maintenance of parks is difficult to
accomplish. Reliance more on volunteer efforts may
be an opportunity to off -set some of the funding and
staffing limitations.
Park System Planning Document: Not having a park
system planning document makes it difficult to
understand all the issues which effect the
development of the park system and the
responsibilities of the various governing agencies
and staff. As one questionnaire submittal pointed
out, "failing to plan is planning to fail."
Passive Use Facilities: Lack of passive use facilities
(i.e., walking/hiking, picnic areas, seating areas,
nature areas, etc.) exists. More attention needs to
be paid to a wider range of age groups.
Lack of Recreational Facilities/Amenities: Lack of
recreational facilities/amenities, such as ballfields,
soccer fields, hockey rinks, etc., is an important
concern and needs to be evaluated.
Community Character. With respect to concerns
about future community/population growth, the
consensus amongst the group was that maintaining -
the unique rural and natural open space character;
providing adequate parks, open space, recreational
facilities, and linkage (trails) system; and making
proper planning decisions which achieve these
objectives was their major concerns about future
community growth. How fast and h7 much the
J
Section 2 - Assessment of Lino Lakes Parks and Recreation Needs
community grows in the future was not as big a
concern as making sure that future development is
done in a planned and pragmatic manner whereby
the outcome of development and its effect on the
City can be reasonably understood prior to it
becoming reality. This attitude is as important when
considering parks and recreation development as it
is when considering overall City development.
Naturally, coordinating the park system plan with
other public facilities plans should be undertaken as
part of the planning process.
Public Meetings: Meetings should be held to give
City residents an opportunity to participate in the
planning process. Special attention should be given
to specific issues and specific groups/interests to
encourage more participation. "Advertising" of
meeting agendas, dates, etc. was also suggested.
Parks and Recreation Survey. The possibility of
implementing a survey geared exclusively toward
parks and recreation issues should be considered
and used as deemed appropriate. Specific attention
should be given to gaining input from various age
groups as apposed to "head of household" only.
Continuing Community Involvement/Interaction:
Involvement of residents in the planning and
development process on an on -going basis needs to
be addressed. Communication with the City
residents must be established and maintained
throughout the planning process (and beyond).
Private Recreation Facilities: The impact that
private recreation providers have on the park system
should be addressed in order to understand the
overall "picture" as to what type of recreational
facilities (public and private) are available to City
residents and avoidance of unnecessary duplication
of facilities wherever possible. This includes private
facilities such as playlots which have been developed
for private use.
Indoor Facilities: Address the potential/need for
indoor facilities such as a hockey arena, community
center, etc. The demand for park "shelters" and
multi -use buildings (i.e., warming house, summer
activities, etc.) should also be considered.
Summer Family Events: The need for more summer
family events should be addressed.
Beautification: The need for an overall parks
"beautification" program was also expressed in the
questionnaire submittals.
Park Security/Safety. Park security and general
park/trail safety needs to be considered. Specific
approaches to enhancing park security and safety
need to be developed. Safety in this instance is
defined as both personal safety (i.e., personal
attacks, robbery, etc.) and safe surroundings (i.e.,
separation of bikes from cars, handicap access to
parks, etc.)
Public Meeting
Not undertaken at this time.......
Summary Statements
The preceding information from the various sources
provides an important perspective about City
resident's attitude toward the community and their
expectations about the quality of the park system
and the quality of life within the community.
Looking forward, the long term success of this
planning effort will be based to a large extent on:
• whether or not the City residents continue to
believe that the a quality park system enhances
the quality of life Wei in the community.
City of Lino Lakes
a willingness by the residents of the City to
invest in the City's future growth and vitality.
• a committed and persistent effort by the various
governing bodies, City staff, and, most
importantly, the residents themselves to see the
Park System Plan through the implementation
phases.
Given this "criteria for success, the importance of
assessing the needs and attitudes of the City
residents and then usins that information as the
impetus and driving force in developing the park
system plan can not be overstated.
With this perspective in mind, the information
gathered from the various sources will, in affect, be
used as a "check list" of issues which will, in some
form or fashion, have an impact on this planning
exercise and the development of the park system
plan.
Although there is a temptation to summarize the
findings of this section in a concise paragraph or
two, it is perhaps most prudent to refrain from this
as to avoid leaving out important issues which may
otherwise be missed.
Finally, it is important to recognize that a planning
effort such as this is not static but instead in a state
of constant change and evolution. Our purpose with
this study is to set the process in motion so that the
demands of today, based on our educated
perceptions of the community, will be adequately
addressed without forfeiting the opportunity to
adjust to the demands of the future. Is essence, this
planning effort is the beginning as opposed to an
end of a long and involved planning process.